Verb Issue S187 (April 27-May 3, 2012) by Parity Publishing Inc.

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Apr 27–May 3, 2012 • Pass it on

Verb

Drunk Driving Rate Soars

Economy Keeps Dangerous Motorists Here: MADD P2

Jayme Stone

Banjoist Pushes Musical Boundaries P12

The Five-Year Engagment

Segel, Blunt Shine In Hilarious Romcom P15

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

Peter Katz Getting Intimate With This Canadian Singer P11

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

dangerous drivers in the province. “Saskatchewan is now what they saskatoon, SK — Among Ca- call a have province,” he explains. nadians, Saskatchewan residents “You see your young males staying are the most likely to be killed by at home. They are getting jobs and a drunk driver, a new report by the population is growing quite Mothers Against Drunk Driving dramatically. If you look at the 15 Canada (MADD) says. to 24-year-olds, even though they In 2009, Saskatchewan posted represent 13 percent of the populathe worst numtion, they reprebers in the coun- “It’s similar to what sent one third of try: 8.44 people Alberta experienced. the fatalities.” per 100,000 died Saskatchewan didn’t do “ It ’s similar in “impairmentto what Alberta related crashes.” well; neither did Alberta.” experienced,” he -Andrew Murie adds. “SaskatchBy contrast, the national average was 3.18, and ewan didn’t do well; neither did Ontario came in at just 2.03 deaths Alberta.” per 100,000. The damning report According to the report, Alberlists Saskatchewan as a jurisdiction ta experienced 5.70 deaths per that is “making no progress” and 100,000 people in 2009. states that the province has failed to Saskatchewan Government implement major impaired driving Insurance (SGI), which handles initiatives in the past three years. property and casualty insurance, Andrew Murie, MADD Canada is hopeful. CEO, attributes the high rate of im“Overall, 2009 was a bad year for paired driving deaths to a booming alcohol-related fatalities, but we’ve economy which has kept the most seen significant improvements

since then,” says Rebecca Rogoschewsky, SGI media relations manager. 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.

Photo: courtesy of Matt Carman

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 24hour 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.” Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Section

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Local

Page 4

Apr 27–May 3, ‘12 VerbNews.com

U Of S Students Heading To Middle East Edwards School Of Business Undergraduates To Visit Sites In Jordan, Israel Alex J MacPherson

Saskatoon, SK — Sixteen Saskatoon students are getting set for the trip of a lifetime — a tour aimed at business development and opportunities in the Middle East. Sheldon Kowalchuk, a fourthyear accounting student at the Edwards School of Business, saw a flyer advertising the program on campus. “I just felt like it would a be a good opportunity to take a class and go international,” he says.

The students, who will earn a business practice and a chance for credit for the trip, will travel to a the students, who will soon enter number of businesses and industrial the workforce, to make meaningful sites in Israel and contacts abroad. Jordan, notably “An experience likes “This is a good Israel Chemicals this gives [students] opportunity to, Ltd. and Arab Pot- global connections and before I get into ash Company. the working The trip, which confidence.” world, experience -Daphne Taras business culture is sponsored in part by Potash Corp. of Saskatch- and how business works internaewan, will demonstrate how Sas- tionally,” says Kowalchuk, adding katchewan businesses operate on that he hopes to gain a broader a global scale and connect with perspective from the trip. other corporations around the Mary Panteluk, who is in her fiworld. It is a practical lesson in nal year of a management degree, agrees. “For me, anyway, it’s just about immersing yourself in the business community,” she explains. “I’ve had a lot of exposure in the local community, but I’m looking for more of that international perspective.” The group will also visit technological start-ups and meet students at the Arava Institute, the preeminent environmental studies program in the Middle East. Daphne Taras, Dean of the Edwards School of Business, thinks the trip will provide the students with invaluable experiences and could reshape the way the school views undergraduate education. “An experience likes this gives them global connections and confidence,” she explains. “They’ve seen the world, they understand the industry, and they have comparisons,” she says. “It truly opens their minds to different ways of

Photo: courtesy of Edwards School of Business

Students learning at PotashCorp’s Allan operation running businesses. It also gives PotashCorp CFO. PotashCorp owns them a chance to polish their am- a percentage interest in both Israel bassadorial skills.” Chemicals Ltd. and Arab Potash Explaining that the trip was Company. Brownlee will demonmade possible by numerous part- strate how a Saskatchewan comners, including the provincial gov- pany not only sells internationally, ernment and PotashCorp, Taras says but engages in business on a global she hopes the project can spark scale. a new model of undergraduate Students will also have the opeducation: portunity to swim in the Dead Sea “This captures what I want to do and visit a range of historical sites, with the school: it’s innovative, it’s including Yad Veshem, the Holoadventurous and it is of such high caust memorial in Jerusalem. value to the students.” Other sponsors include SasPostgraduate students often katchewan Advanced Education, travel abroad, but the practice is Canadian Academics for Peace in not as common at the undergradu- the Middle East, University of Sasate level. katchewan President’s Fund, and Students will also have access to the Hanlon Centre for International a diverse group of business lead- Business Studies. ers, including Wayne Brownlee, Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Global

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Apr 27–May 3, ‘12 VerbNews.com

We May Be Unable To Help Sex, Food Cravings Adam Hawboldt

Flirty Coworkers

Teasing Men Bored, Unfeeling Adam Hawboldt

“There is strong evidence against the notion that you can Surrey, ENgland — Men flirt your way to the top.” who flirt on the job actually What’s more, a follow-up queshave lower levels of job satis- tionnaire was administered and faction compared to their more found that not only were flirts restrained counterparts, new bored at the workplace, they also research has revealed. had low levels of something called What’s more, the flirtatious be- “emotional intelligence” — which haviour didn’t stem from any sort simply means they don’t really unof actual attraction to the other derstand other people’s feelings. person, but rather Because of was the result of “Flirting is not going to be this, suggests Dr. a listless tedium the way to advance your Banks, men may these men felt career…” have a difficult about their jobs. time suppressing -Dr. Adrian Banks their flirtatious Psychologists from Surrey University in England behaviour. Not only that, they may surveyed 200 people while trying to also not even realize that sometest their theory that flirting while times their actions are inapproat work improves one’s chance of priate. being promoted. “Flirting is not going to be the “What we found was the com- way to advance your career, and of plete opposite,” says Dr. Adrian course flirting, when it is unwanted, Banks, lead author of the study. is not appropriate,” adds Banks. “It “Flirts don’t perform better at is not going to help and could be work and men who flirt are less sat- harmful.” isfied with their jobs,” he continues. Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Global At A Glance cloned sheep good for you — Chi-

nese scientists have cloned a genetically modified sheep that contains the “good” type of fat — the kind found in olive oils, avocados, nuts and seeds, or fish, and that can help reduce the risk of heart attacks and cardiovascular

disease. Named Peng Peng, the sheep, who has a roundworm fat gene (which is linked to the production of good fats) weighed 5.74 kg when it was born in a laboratory in China’s Xinjiang region on March 26th. Feedback? Text it to 306881-8372.

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, landscapes and erotica while subjecting them to fMRI brain imaging; six months later, the women returned for a follow-up session. The subjects who experienced hyperactivity in the accumbens (the brain’s key reward structure)

while looking at food had gained the most weight, while those whose accumbens responded to erotic stimulation had stronger sexual appetites. Interestingly, the indulgence in sex and food didn’t cross over. Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Global

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Apr 27–May 3, ‘12 VerbNews.com

Asteroids Next Mining Frontier? Adam Hawboldt

from the asteroids that routinely pass by Earth. Seattle, wa — James Cameron “It is the stuff of science fiction, knows a thing or two about being but like in so many other areas of first. science fiction, it’s possible to begin This past March he became the the process of making them reality,” first person to make a solo trip to says former astronaut and company Challenger Deep — the deepest 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 or investor/advisor with Planetary platinum is worth about $1,600 an Resources Inc. — a company that ounce, but a NASA mission to mine, plans to use commercially build say, two ounces from an asteroid robotic ships to squeeze rocket fuel would cost in access of $1 billion. and minerals like platinum and gold Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Identifying Workaholics

Test Determines If You’re Addicted To The Office Adam Hawboldt

bergen, norway — A test to determine whether you’re a workaholic or not has been developed by scientists. Psychologists from Norway’s University of Bergen and from Nottingham Trent University in England have created an exam to determine whether people are addicted to work or if they’re simple aiming to impress the boss. Called the Bergen Work Addiction Scale, the test exams behav-

“[S]tatements include … ‘you work in order to reduce feelings of guilt, anxiety, helplessness…’”

-Adam Hawboldt iour common in all addicts — from drug users to boozehounds — and relates it back to the workplace. The researchers developed the test, which was recently published in the Journal of Psychology, because they believe that distinctions between home and work life have become eroded, a situation they claim is compounded by cell phones, laptops and other mobile devices that make it easier than ever to work from home — and harder to “switch off.” Possible test subjects would be asked to rank themselves in seven different categories to see if they exhibit behaviour that is either excessive or compulsive — what

the researchers determined were the key actions of an addict. These categories were salience, tolerance, withdrawal, conflict, relapse and

problems. The Bergen Work Addiction Scale asks participants to rank themselves on a scale from one to five in relation to statements like “you think of how you can free up more time to work,” “you work in order to reduce feelings of guilt, anxiety, helplessness and depression” and “you become stressed if you are prohibited from working.” 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, grapelike sac made of erectile tissue about 1.6 centimetres up from the urethra. He notes that because the sac is buried deep in tissue, it is difficult to find — perhaps explaining why the G-spot has been so elusive for so long. Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Offbeat

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Apr 27–May 3, ‘12 VerbNews.com

Owners Pay Thousands For Canine Wedding Adam Hawboldt

Two dogs — Scruffy Rubin (the bride) and Snickers Carter (the palm desert, ca — It was a groom) — tied the knot in a wedwedding those in attendance won’t ding that can only be described soon forget. as one-of-a-kind. D e s p i t e “Complete with a … Complete with scorching weath- custom couture dress, this a wedding cake, er and the absurd shindig cost more than open bar and a nature of the custom couture nuptials, more $5,000.” dress, the shin-Adam Hawboldt dig cost more than 100 people showed up at a country club in Palm than $5,000. Desert to watch a pair of canines And while this all may sound get married. over-the-top, Ernie Rubin (mother

of the bride) and Ann Carter (mother of the groom) made sure it was for a good cause. Instead of bringing gifts for the newlyweds, guests were asked to make donations to the Orphan Pet Oasis Humane Society. “In planning this event Ernie and Ann wanted to make sure that a charity was involved,” says society representative Jennifer Hamilton, who also attended the happy ceremony. Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Adam Hawboldt

injuries and then arrested. He faces charges of violating conditions. Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Caviar Face-Off Criminal Hides In Chimney, Calls Cops For Help $5K Of Delicacy Eaten In Race Adam Hawboldt

Alexander Valov was crowned the winner after scarfing down roughly moscow, russia — What $5,000 worth of caviar in one minfoods come to mind when you ute and 26 seconds. think about competitive speed “I once saw a report on how eating? they made big H o t d o g s ? “I thought, why shouldn’t chocolate truffles H a m b u r g e r s ? we do our own Russian in Georgia and Pies? How about competition?” organized an eatcaviar? Recently a ing competition,” -Alexander Novikov says Alexander night club in Moscow, Russia, held a speed-eating Novikov, owner of Russian Caviar contest of one of the world’s most House, the company that sponexpensive delicacies — black caviar. sored the speed-eating contest. ”I 12 contestants were given 500g thought, why shouldn’t we do our of caviar in crystal dishes, and own Russian competition?” when the dust settled, so to speak, Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

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.

Montreal, qc — A teen fleeing officers had to call police to give him a hand after he wedged himself into a chimney trying to escape them, and couldn’t get out. The 19-year-old, who was wanted on outstanding warrants, was approached by officers in the Villeray neighbourhood of Montreal. When the cops went to arrest him, the suspect then scaled a building. When the police reached the roof,

the man was nowhere to be found. Thinking they had lost him, the officers went back to the street and left. An hour and a half later, a call came in reporting a man who needed help. It was the teen they’d lost in the chase. “The guy called [911] and he was stuck in the chimney,” reports police spokesman Daniel Lacoursiere. “[He had] minor injuries. He was stuck for awhile. They pulled him out of the bottom of the chimney.” The man was treated for minor

Food

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Apr 27–May 3, ‘12 VerbNews.com

The difference between wild mussels and cultured one is subtle, but distinct. Wild mussels have shells that are a dull, bluish colour, while cultured mussels are shiny blue/black. And that’s not all that’s interesting about these delicious mollusks!

Europe, mussels have ■beenIn cultivated for nearly 800 years

can live to the ripe ■oldMussels age of 50 tend to live in ■smallMussels clumps, called beds, which can stretch for miles

aren’t the only crea■turesPeople who eat mussels; they are also snacked on by ducks, otters and raccoons.

Crazy Cactus: Fiesta Fun For All

Photos: Courtesy of Adam Hawboldt

Melrose Ave. Eatery’s Enormous Portions Will Leave You Satisfied Adam Hawboldt

There’s no mistaking the Crazy Cactus. Sure, the cozy eatery may look unassuming from the outside, but

the second you walk into the Melrose Avenue institution, you can’t mistake it for any other place in the city. With its wild colours, cacti, flowers, madcap murals, inflated float planes, palm trees, license plateadorned walls and dual-player Pac-Man game, the Crazy Cactus certainly stands out as an eclectic, energetic place that’s great to drop by for a quick snack, or pass a summer’s evening on their patio. And with their new menu set to launch on May 4th (just in time for the Cinco de Mayo weekend), things are good and getting better at the Crazy Cactus. Take the Mexicali Mussels, for example. Sautéed in a tomato/garlic/

onion/pepper sauce, then splashed I also tasted their mushroom, with lemon and a touch of wine, mozza, cheddar burger, which ofthese mollusks are mouthwatering, fered up a ton of cheese on top of and served with garlic jalapeño a thick, rich patty. I do dig mushtoast points that are perfect for rooms, so this was a no-brainer dipping. for me. Then there’s “[T]hese multi-coloured But if you’re the Four-Cheese nachos are snappy with a not in the mood Chicken Quesa- subtle heat…” for a full-on meal, dilla. Consisting why not try some -Adam Hawboldt of the appetizers? of chicken breast sautéed with peppers and onions, The nachos El Grande — which then topped with mozza, monterey, come in one heaping portion — cheddar and feta, this dish is gooey come topped with cheese, olive, and tasty and perfect for any seri- tomatoes and peppers. A staple ous cheese lover. It comes with your in many a restaurant, these multichoice of caesar salad (delicious) or coloured nachos are snappy with house fries (sprinkled with a secret, a subtle heat you’ll certainly enjoy. special seasoning that is as intriguAnother appy you might want ing as it is good.) to sink your teeth into is the Fiesta Platter. You can pick and choose what you want on the platter, and change it up depending on how you’re feeling. Me, I went with wings (which came topped with an in-house hot sauce), chicken fingers, fries and boneless dry ribs. When it came out, I was shocked at how enormous the serving is. If you go with this choice, a couple of friends to help you out would be highly advisable. Oh, and if you’re a person who enjoys a splash of grampa’s secret sauce, you might want to suck back a Gringo or two. Made by mixing beer, tequila and lime, this ingenious concoction does the trick — every time. Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Crazy Cactus

Address: 2404 Melrose Avenue Information: Call 975-1266 for info on

hours and reservations

Opinion

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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 The Editors of Verb

oppose projects to do with the oil sands and pipelines — projects in saskatoon, SK — The Harper which our current government has government has come out swing- a stake. ing at charities, earmarking $8 And while there are certainly million in the recent budget to organizations that work hard to more closely monitor how these help people without promoting a groups operate in Canada, where political agenda, and while discustheir money comes from and sions about the environment and what (if any) sort of politicking our impact on it are important and they engage in. The move has necessary, charities that are politibeen criticized as a direct at- cal should not simultaneously be tack that singles out Canada’s allowed to accept subsidies funded, environmental groups, but we in part, by the Canadian taxpayer. think keeping tabs on charities’ It’s easy to get on the anti-Harppolitical activity makes sense. er train and rail against the everBut let ’s be shortening leash perfectly clear: we “Theoretically, on which he’s are not advocat- institutions could acquire putting Canada’s ing for a targeted charitable status in order green movement, attack on Canabut consider for da’s environmen- to promote [an] agenda.” a moment an or-Verb’s Editors ganization whose tal groups. Rather, we think any charities that promote political motivations are perhaps a a political agenda shouldn’t be per- little more suspect. mitted a “charitable” status by the Aid to Women is a registered government. charity in Toronto. Like any other Think about it: nonprofit organi- such foundation, it receives tax zations receive tax subsidies from subsidies, and — according to its the government, part of which is website — promises to offer “honest funded from the taxes Canadians abortion and abortion alternatives pay. Charities are then free to use information.” the money how they choose, which In 2010, the Toronto Star sent includes advancing a political agen- a reporter posing as a pregnant da however they see fit — regard- woman considering an abortion to less of whether or not the taxpayer the Aid to Women agency. supports these political actions. There, she was given misinforBy law, charitable organizations mation about terminating a pregare allowed to fork over 10 per- nancy — that it causes breast cancent of their resources to political cer and infertility, which medical advocacy. According to The Globe and Mail, there are approximately 86,000 registered charities in Canada, 500 of which are politically active. Theoretically, though, institutions could acquire charitable status in order to promote a political agenda and thereby sway or influence the public, and we don’t think that’s fair. According to the recent budget document, the $8 million will be used to “improve transparency by requiring charities to provide more information on their political activities, including the extent to which these are funded by foreign sources.” This has had sparked some high-profile fallout: David Suzuki has distanced himself from his own organization because he’s worried his voice will harm the foundation, and Maclean’s magazine argues this move is targeted specifically at Tides Canada, an environmental group that uses foreign money to

Photo: courtesy of Mr. Fink’s Finest Photos

David Suzuki has quit his foundation amid Harper’s recent crackdown on charities experts have dismissed — by both has charitable status, taxpayers — activity, then they should have to volunteers and paid staff. whether they would want to fund apply for funding like other instituSpreading misinformation dem- an anti-abortion group or not — are tions, such as the CBC. Because we onstrates the organization’s own giving money to one. don’t think it’s fair that a charity can political agenda when it comes So what to do? If an organization use tax subsidies to promote their to women and their reproductive wishes to be granted charitable sta- own agenda. rights. And because Aid to Women tus while also engaging in political Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Feature

Page 10

Apr 27–May 3, ‘12 VerbNews.com

Stock Car Racing Gears Up For New Season

Drivers Ready To Put It All On The Line, As Association Celebrates Fifty Years Sebastien Dangerfield

Saskatoon, SK — The year was 1962. Ken Kesey’s novel, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, was first published. The Cuban Missile Crisis took the world by storm. Tom Cruise was busy being born, while Marilyn Monroe’s busy days were being brought to an end. And closer to home, here in Hub City, the Saskatoon Stock Car Racing Club underwent an evolution of sorts. After it originated in 1954,

the club stumbled upon some rocky SSCRA is preparing to celebrate its times not long after its creation. 50th year in existence. “The guys who got it going were “It’s a pretty big milestone,” says all tired,” explains Ron Just of the asAl Bakke, club “[T]here’s always big sociation’s golden president from hopes because … anniversary. 1969-71. “Then in everybody still has a Over the years, ‘58 things started Just — who chance to be a champion.” joined the SSCRA to fall apart.” -Ron Just in 1968 — has The club essentially closed its doors in 1959 worn many hats for the associabefore it reopened in 1962 as the tion. He’s been club president, a Saskatoon Stock Car Racing As- member, an announcer at the track, sociation. even a volunteer. Now here we are in 2012, and the But, first and foremost, Just was

Photo: courtesy of Vanessa Neufeld and Auto Clearing Motor Speedway

a stock car racer. So when the new season begins at the Auto Clearing Motor Speedway, Just knows exactly what this new generation of drivers will be thinking when the flag drops and things finally get rolling. “On opening day everybody has high expectations,” explains Just. “Sometimes there are big letdowns too. Sometimes things in the car don’t work or the car just isn’t ready. Still, there’s always big hopes because, on the first day, everybody still has a chance to be a champion.” And while every racer in the association wants to win, the first day of the season brings with it more than just simple competitive urges. “The only way to describe that first day is great,” says Just. “[Stock car racing] is a lifestyle. So it feels great to get back to it every spring.” The SSCRA’s season kicks off on May 12th, and consists of 14 rounds of races before coming to a conclusion in late September. These races are divided into six

categories: Pro Truck, Mini Stock, Street Stock, Super Late Model, Thunder Stock and the Sask. Legend Series. But don’t expect to see the 65-year-old Just taking part in any of these; his days of competitive racing are long over. “In about 1988 I walked away from stock car racing for about 10 years,” says Just. “If I went back to the track, for the longest time, I had to have a car. I had to drive.” That urge has waned in the ensuing years, but Just is a driver so it’s never fully gone away. “Now when I go out to watch, I see these young guys and I say, ‘I can do that’,” admits Just, who now drives the pace car at the Auto Clearing Motor Speedway. “But then I see one of ‘em crash or blow up and figure, ‘Nah, I don’t want to do that anymore.” Check out www.autoclearingmotorspeedway.ca for information on ticket prices and more. Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Arts One

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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

album delivers an immediacy that would be impossible to replicate Saskatoon, SK — Interview- with layered overdubs, but that is ing Peter Katz is an odd experi- only half the story. ence. It feels less like a formal “As much as I’m a solo artist and exchange of questions and an- I want my records to sound like me, swers, and more like a conversa- I also want to see the record as a tion. The appropriate adjective medium unto itself where you can is intimate. Or maybe human. do some things you can’t do in a Katz, who recently released his live setting,” he says. “In a live setfifth studio record, the ambitious ting people hear it, they’re there, it Still Mind Still, is goes by. Whereas deeply concerned “ I also want to see the with a record, you with intimac y. record as a medium unto want people to T h i s e x p l a i n s itself…” listen over and why he chose to over again, make -Peter Katz discoveries.” record Still Mind Still in a cabin in the woods. The Still Mind Still seems to underrecord feels intimate because, well, score Katz’s instinctive feel for his it is intimate. own music and the best ways to “What you’re hearing is literally use the studio to his advantage. full takes,” Katz explains. “I’m stand“My own personal bent is just ing, singing, playing guitar. It’s all the straight-up folk, acoustic guitar about the intimacy and not about records,” he admits. “But I sort of tire perfection, but more about some of it, and I get a little more excited sort of overall arc or vibe or feeling about the records that have that that you just don’t get when it’s all unique sound to them. I wanted chopped up.” it to sound like a record I wanted Still Mind Still is the quintessential to listen to.” backwoods recording: an underInvoking Justin Vernon, the stated folk record that shows off frontman for Bon Iver, Katz explains strong songwriting, inspired play- that how the words sound can be ing and honest performances. The important as what they mean:

“Show, don’t tell. Paint a picture and let people fill in the blanks.” Now, Katz is heading back out on the road in support of his new album. “I like the variety,” he says. “I like that every time you go into a new venue, a new place, you have to start from scratch. It’s a little puzzle every time, and I love that. In a market where nobody knows who I am you have to start somewhere.” Katz is known for playing house concerts and other intimate spaces, but he says the venue isn’t important.

“It’s not my goal to only play house concerts,” he says. “It’s my goal to play for people … as long as there’s a room full of people who are willing to give me a chance, and as long as there’s good sound and good lighting and a decent vibe in the room, I’ll play there.” Understanding this is essential to understanding Peter Katz. Everything he does is centered on the importance of forging meaningful 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 4th Cost: $15 (http://tktwb.tw/I6GJ8c)

Musician Jayme Stone Breaks The Banjo Mould preconceptions to begin with,” he explains. “I didn’t grow up listening saskatoon, SK — Jayme Stone to any banjo music at all. When I is a magnet for adjectives. first picked up the banjo at 16, I But it would be too easy to de- was listening to a wide range of scribe the Canadian musician, the styles and players. All of it seemed man who is currently transcribing amazing to me.” Bach for banjo and loves improvisStone studied with Béla Fleck, ing with jazz musicians, as a unique, unquestionably the master of innovative, creative, refreshing, banjo-driven fusion, and avantrestless experimentalist. The truth garde trailblazer Tony Trischka beis much simpler: Jayme Stone loves fore embarking on his own career. music. Besides knowing “ I h a p p e n “I happen to be someone everything there to be someone who feels like you could is to know about who feels like play all kinds of music on the instrument, you could play all Stone believes kinds of music on any instrument…” that the banjo -Jayme Stone is more versatile any instrument, provided you approach it in the than people think. right way,” he says. “I do have some “There’s a rhythmic drive to it, good trailblazers before me who a percussive nature to the sound, have proven that you can play the and there’s an intricacy to all of banjo in all styles of music, and are the picking patterns,” he explains. reminding people that banjo comes “You can play a lot of notes very from a lot of different traditions.” easily with a right hand technique Most people think of the banjo we call rolls. For that reason, it has a as a bluegrass instrument. Earl lot of assets that make it adaptable.” Scruggs, Steve Martin and countBesides his Bach transcriptions, less others have driven this message Stone is currently collaborating with home for decades. composer Andrew Downing, who Stone admires these players, but moonlights as Stone’s cello player, he doesn’t believe that the instru- on a banjo concerto — a full-bore ment should be limited to a specific piece of chamber music. genre. “That came about as a result “ I d i d n ’ t h a v e t h o s e of our friendship and my growing

ArtsSect &C

Alex J MacPherson

Norm Macdonald with Adam Sandler on set in Southborough, ON

Photo: courtesy of Vanessa Heins

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 Qs: Norm Ma

Canadian Comic On Getting Calle Alex J macPherson

Norm Macdonald is, quite simply, a legend. After cutting his teeth on the hardscrabble Canadian stand-up circuit, Macdonald found bright lights in the big city. An abortive stint on Saturday Night Live catapulted him into comedy’s upper echelons. Last year he released his first Comedy Central special, and now he’s heading back out on the road. Verb tracked down Macdonald in California to chat about serious countries, a CBC journalist,

and shouting about turds. Alex J MacPherson: After doing, well, everything, why do you keep coming back to stand-up? Norm Macdonald: Stand-up is still my favourite thing by a long shot, and Canada is my favourite place to do it. I was never really interested in acting or anything like that. I didn’t really realize until I got into television, but with stand-up the audience is more of a real thing. You have to make them laugh. When “People go, “H you do a television I go, “Thank y show they hire the everyone is ju audience and they laugh at everything. us. It’s very od -N AJM: Why do you think Canada is so conducive to great stand-up? NM: For stand-up in particular, it’s just because, at least when I started 18 years ago, there was no show business other than stand-up in Canada. We were working, the stand-ups, we never wanted to do anything beyond stand-up. We really had no ambition beyond that because there was no show business, whereas in the United States a lot of people do stand-up just to get into something else. AJM: Is there a difference between performing in Canada and the U.S.? NM: For sure there’s a huge difference between the way people act in Canada

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

Pages 12, 13 Pages 10,3,11 Apr 27–May ‘12 VerbNews.com

Artist Kathy Bradshaw Unpacks Chaos, Simplicity In New Exhibit Alex J MacPherson

Photo: courtesy of My_Southborough

acdonald

ed ‘Turd’ In Public

and the United States. When I’m in the United States, I still feel completely like an outsider. The difference is, at least for me and my buddies, that we didn’t take ourselves very seriously because our country is not that serious a country. When I get to the United States I realize “Oh my God, these people really take themselves seriously.” AJM: You did “Weekend Update” on SNL, but your brother, Neil, is a CBC journalist. CoinHey Turd!” cidence, or what? NM: It was a very you!” And weird coincidence. ust looking at I see him now, he’s dd…” in Washington, and Norm Macdonald it’s just funny, you know? He moved to the United States around the same time I was doing “Weekend Update.” Very, very strange. AJM: Let’s talk Jeopardy: I hear people still call you “Turd Ferguson.” NM: That’s so funny when you do a whole bunch of stuff for a whole bunch of years, but only a couple things stick to people’s imaginations. But I do regret the day I came up with that. People go, “Hey Turd!” I go, “Thank you!” And everyone is just looking at us. It’s very odd for the third person that doesn’t know who I am to hear that exchange. Feedback? Text it to 306-8818372.

three-panel canvas that depicts a forest of black spruce. Dozens Saskatoon, SK — Poet and au- of slender trunks reach beyond thor Henry David Thoreau has long the frame, leaving the sky tantabeen a hero to agents of change. lizingly out of sight. The viewer is To better understand society, he transported, lured in by the scale immersed himself in nature, and of the work and the tranquility it desired the raw, visceral pleasures seems to offer. of solitude. His book Walden has inLike Thoreau, whose famous spired generations of idealists; now, cabin was just a few miles from a Saskatoon artthe local waterist is channeling “I wanted to get across a ing hole, BradThoreau’s ideas reconnection with simpler shaw isn’t ready onto the canvas. things…” to leave society “I wanted to behind. Instead, -Kathy Bradshaw her work is a reget across a reconnection with simpler things, flection of her views on solitude, things we take for granted” says renewal and the search for truth. Kathy Bradshaw of her latest col“It’s a special place for me,” she lection, I Went to the Woods… “I says of the forest. “I wanted to get want the viewer to feel like he or that across for others, and reiterate she has been transported alone to or emphasize Thoreau’s philosothis place.” phy, that when we get into times of Bradshaw spent years teaching chaos in our life, step back.” high school before abandoning Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372. the classroom for the studio, an extraordinarily difficult — and extraordinarily rewarding — decision. As a teacher, she often used Norm Macdonald Thoreau’s ideas as a catalyst for Where: Dakota Dunes Casino discussion. Now, she creates art When: May 10 based on the same idea, the notion Cost: $35 @ Dakota Dunes Box Office that complexity breeds a deep and Jayme Stone powerful yearning for simplicity. Where: The Bassment “I see it as a real timeless mes- When: May 5 sage for us all: even at that stage, Cost: $14/$18 which in the great scheme of things Kathy Bradshaw: isn’t that long ago, people were already feeling that sense of claus- I Went To The Woods trophobia,” she says. “They were Where: Frances Morrison Library Now ‘til May 10 overwhelmed with things in their When: Cost: Free! life.” The centrepiece of Brad- Want some coverage for your upcoming shaw’s collection is an immense, event? Email layout@verbnews.com ASAP!

Event Info

Photo: courtesy of the artist

Section Movies

Page Page 14PH

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

The Pirates! A Fun Romp For All Hugh Grant Hilarious In 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? After Love Actually (which, by the way, is easily one of the best romcoms of the past decade or so), Grant’s roles started to dwindle down to one a year, one every two years, one every three years. But in 2012, Grant has reemerged with two films destined for market: the first, an adaptation of David Mitchell’s brilliant novel, Cloud Atlas. The other is a stop-animation movie called The Pirates! Band of Misfits, which, if you’re wondering is a) currently in theatres, and b) extremely entertaining. Created by Aardman Animations — the good folks who brought you

Photo: courtesy of Columbia Pictures

Wallace & Gromit, Chicken Run and Darwin keeps eyeing Captain PiArthur Christmas — the film stars rates parrot. Grant as the Pirate Captain, a man And it turns out, the parrot isn’t who thinks himself the scourge a parrot at all. It’s the last remaining of the ocean but who, in reality, is dodo bird. more of a bumbling halfwit than a Once this gets out the plan is as high-seas terror. follows: bring the The plot of the “[T]he use of effects in bird to England, movie revolves this film is nothing short avoid the piratearound the Pirate of phenomenal.” hating Q ue en Captain vying for Victoria, collect -Adam Hawboldt money for the the coveted Pirate of the Year award — a trophy he’s dodo and win the Pirate of the Year. tried for the past 20 years to win. Sounds simple, right? This time around, though, the If only acquiring such a coveted competition is stiff. Up against prize as the Pirate of the Year was Black Bellamy (Jeremy Piven), Cut- that easy. lass Liz (Salma Hayek) and Peg-Leg This movie is, unquestionably, Hastings (Lenny Henry), the Pirate appropriate for all ages. Youngsters Captain has to pull off something will cackle at the gags, action and spectacular. slapstick humour. Adults British That something comes when comedy will be tickled by the satthey sink the Beagle (yes, that ire and dry, tongue-in-cheek wit. Beagle) and take Charles Darwin And it’s not only the Pirate Caphostage. For some strange reason tain 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 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 married after the fellowship is over. Instead, Michigan turns out to be more than either Tom or Violet bargained for, and the refreshing hilarity that Bridesmaids brought to the typical romcom is on display here as well, as Tom and Violet navigate the ups and downs of

postponing — and re-postponing relationships. Things like balancing — their wedding. careers and romance, selfishness, Hands down, The Five-Year En- regret, resentment, miscommunicagagement is one of the funniest tion and a myriad of other things. comedies I’ve seen in a while. I know all that sounds like some Not only is the film razor sharp, seriously messy life stuff, and it is. not only does it have wet-your- But The Five-Year Engagement is, by pants moments no means, a seriof hilarity, but “Segel, when he really ous movie. it’s also real and turns it on, is flat out No. Because true and utterly uproarious.” Segel, when he sincere. The story, really turns it on, -Adam Hawboldt is flat out uproariwhile it does have that Hollywood sheen to it, feels like ous. Just wait until you see the deerit isn’t simply catering to our base hunting bit. sensibilities. There’s things here we And the supporting cast — can relate to, and they’re freaking which consists of Chris Pratt (Parks funny! Put simply: whereas most and Recreation), Alison Brie (Comromcoms these days are content munity) and Mindy Kaling (The Ofto simply skim the surface, The Five- fice) — shines with comedic brilYear Engagement digs deeper. liance. It opens a can of worms and And on top of all that is the examines the stresses on actual chemistry between Tom and Violet.

Together, these two are so adorable and captivating that you can’t help but root for them to get married. 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.” But for the most part, if you’re a fan of smart, heartfelt romance flicks, 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 9 — what do you think about charities

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

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! 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.

Off Topic

Re: “Let’s Legalize, Regulate Brothels,” 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: “Let’s Legalize, Regulate Brothels,” 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: “Let’s Legalize, Regulate Brothels,” 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: “Let’s Legalize, Regulate Brothels,” 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: “Traffic Bridge Span To Be Demolished,” Local page, April 20th issue

The city council needs to hurry up and fix or replace the traffic bridge. When 1 bridge

Texts is down, the whole “city of bridges” cloggs up! It should never take more than 30min to get anywhere in town. The worst roads in Saskatoon are found all around city. The best road leads up to the mayor’s house. It’s no wonder people don’t respect cyclists on the road. They blow through stop signs and red lights. Cyclists are regarded by the law as a vehicle. If you want to be on the road, follow the rules of the road! I agree that school zones feel slow but wouldn’t you rather lives were saved instead of taken by someone texting while

Page 17

Apr 27–May 3, ‘12 VerbNews.com

driving at 50km/h? Welllllllll now i am a both a NHL goalie and a F1 driver So does 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?

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

Nightlife

Page 18

Apr 27–May 3, ‘12 VerbNews.com

Monday @ Fox and Hounds Venue

The Fox and Hounds Pub and Brewery on Monday, April 16th

Location

7 Assiniboine Drive

Playing on Arrival

“Ain’t No Rest for the wicked” by Cage the Elephant

Music Vibe Rock

Feature Deal

Vodka paralyzers for $5, doubles for $8.50

Popular Drink Pints of Coors

Food of Choice Photos courtesy of Patrick Carley (feedback@verbnews.com)

Wings and ribs — lots of flavours to choose from

Wing Notes

35 cents each on Mondays; of the 23 flavours, Buffalo and lemon pepper are the most popular

Something New

NHL jersey giveaway during the Stanley Cup finals

Nightlife

Page 19

Apr 27–May 3, ‘12 VerbNews.com

Tuesday @ The Yard Venue

The Yard & Flagon Pub on Tuesday, April 24th

Location

718 Broadway Avenue

Playing on Arrival

“Third Planet” by Modest Mouse

Music Vibe

Indie, rock, country and soul

Regular Gig

Open stage every Sunday

Feature Deal

Wings — $4 a pound

Popular Drink

Pints of Great Western Original 16

Food of Choice Jerk wings

Wing Notes

$4 a pound on Tuesdays, with jerk the favourite of the available flavours

Something New

Live music on Sunday nights

Photos courtesy of Barrett Russell (feedback@verbnews.com)

Music

Page 20

Apr 27–May 3, ‘12 VerbNews.com

Friday 27

House DJs — Funk, soul & lounge DJs liven up the atmosphere at 6Twelve. 9pm, 6Twelve Lounge. No cover.

Piano Fridays: Ray Stephanson — Feel like taking in some smooth jazz stylings? Come check out this talented musician tickle the ivories of the Kinsman Yamaha S6 grand piano. 4:30pm, The Bassment. No cover. The Jujubarians — Led by saxophonist Mark DeJong, this trio from Calgary takes audiences on quite the musical journey. Playing everything from standards to originals, the JuJubarians are smooth operators who can improvise with the best of ‘em. 9pm, The Bassment. Tickets $10 for members, $13 for non-members. (NEXT WEEK) CRYSTAL SHAWANDA @ ODEON events centre — Since the

release of her debut album, ‘08’s Dawn of a New Day, this country music artist from Ontario has certainly made a name for herself. CMT documented her rise to fame in a six-part series called Crystal: Living the Dream, she has toured

Photo: courtesy of the artist

with the likes of Brad Paisley and Dierks Bentley, and also won a handful of awards. Shawanda is currently on a tour that runs from Ottawa to B.C., and will be in Saskatoon at the Odeon on May 4th. Tickets are $20, available at www.theodeon.ca. -Adam Hawboldt. Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Austen Roadz — With over 25 years of DJ experience, Calgary’s Austen Roadz throws down a high-energy top 40 dance party every Friday, Saturday and Sunday night. DJ CTRL opens. 11pm, béily’s ultralounge. $5 cover. Riff Raff — With a set full of ‘70s, ‘80s and ‘90s classic hard-rock hits, this local band knows how to get the party started. 10pm, Buds on Broadway. $6 cover. Carroll Baker — Come check out “Canada’s Country Sweetheart.” In a career that has spanned five decades, this wildly talented musician from Nova Scotia has won Junos, released more than 20 #1 records, and been inducted into the

Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame. 8pm, Dakota Dunes. Tickets $40.

Lady Gaga. 10pm, Staqatto Piano Lounge. No cover until 8pm, $5 thereafter.

Rhinkeberger &10th Avenue — Like your music hard, raw and in-your-face? Come check out these local musicians. 9pm, The Fez on Broadway. Tickets TBD.

Lisa Lashes — The #1 female DJ in the world is coming back to Saskatoon. The last time she was here she tore up the dance floor; this time around threatens more of the same. 8pm, Tequila Nightclub. Tickets TBD.

DJ Eclectic — Local turntable whiz DJ Eclectic pumps snappy electronic beats. 8pm, The Hose & Hydrant. No cover. DJ Sugar Daddy & DJ J-Mats — Able to rock any party, these local crowd favourites have always been known to break the latest and greatest tracks in multiple genres. They are sure to have you on the dance floor in no time! 9pm, Jax Niteclub. $5 cover. Zoo Lion — Fuelled by hypnotic guitar licks, groovy bass riffs and complex drum beats, this Calgary band’s brand of rock is simply infectious. 10pm, Lydia’s Pub. Cover $5. DJ Big Ayyy — This Saskatoon DJ is the resident country rock turntablist at Outlaws. Outlaws: your party place to be! 9pm, Outlaws Country Rock Bar. $5 cover. Jatino — Come and enjoy a night of smooth jazz/latin/pop music. 8pm, Prairie Ink. No cover. On Rotation DJ Series: Conrad Devine — Come out and enjoy this local DJ as he spins late into the night. 10pm, Spadina Freehouse. No cover. Dueling Pianos — Terry Hoknes, Neil Currie and Brad King belt out classic tunes and audience requests, from Sinatra to

Saturday 28

Rehashed — This local hardcore punk/ thrash band are veterans of the prairie music scene. With a sound that’s as awesome as it is loud, these guys put on a show you should check out. Also playing will be Haunted Souls, Weak Ends, and Cease and Desist. 10pm, Amigos Cantina. Tickets TBD. House DJs — Resident DJs spin deep and soulful tunes all night. 9pm, 6Twelve Lounge. No cover. The Three Tenor Saxes — Take Bob Klassen, Sheldon Corbett and Calgary’s Mark DeJong, put them together, and what do you get? A night of smooth tenor madness. 9pm, The Bassment. Tickets $12 for members, $15 for non-members.

Music

and ‘90s classic hard-rock hits, this local band knows how to get the party started. 10pm, Buds on Broadway. $6 cover.

Band Warz 8 — It’s time for the finals of this year’s competition, so come on down and see who takes the crown. Bands to be announced. 9pm, The Fez on Broadway. Tickets TBD. DJ Kade — Saskatoon’s own DJ lights it up with hot tunes. 8pm, The Hose & Hydrant. No cover.

Page 21

Apr 27–May 3, ‘12 VerbNews.com

ultralounge. No cover for industry staff, $4 otherwise.

DJ KADE — Saskatoon DJ lights it up with hot tunes. 8pm, The Hose & Hydrant. No cover. DJ Heywood and Scott Turner — Come down and check out two wildly talented locals as they spin the night away. 10pm, Scratch. Cover TBD. SUNDAY JAM — The Vangelis Sunday Jam

is an institution, offering great tunes from blues to rock and beyond. 7:30pm, Vangelis Tavern. No cover.

Monday 30

The Malibu Knights — This rock trio from Kelowna, B.C., has been touring Canada relentlessly for the past few years. As the opening act for the likes of Bon Jovi

DJ J-Mats & DJ Sugar Daddy — Able to rock any party, these local crowd favourites have always been known to break the latest and greatest tracks in multiple genres. They are sure to have you on the dance floor in no time! 9pm, Jax Niteclub. $5 cover. Bokononists — Looking “to storm the Indie rock ranks and bang down the door of the mainstream,” this punk/funk/surf four-piece from Manitoba have a sound that’s simply infectious. 10pm, Lydia’s Pub. $5 cover. DJ Craze — Spinning everything from hip hop to Miami bass, breaks, dubstep and drum n’ bass, this Miami-based DJ is something else. Not only has he been Kanye West’s DJ and Yelawolf’s DJ, but he’s also won numerous World DMC and Scratch Off championships. 9:30pm, The Odeon Events Centre. Tickets $15–20, available at www.theodeon.ca DJ Big Ayyy — This Saskatoon DJ is the resident country rock turntablist at Outlaws. Outlaws: your party place to be! 9pm, Outlaws Country Rock Bar. $5 cover. The Standards Trio — Consisting of Don Sawchuck, Todd Gursky and Matt Gruza, this jazz ensemble is all kinds of good. 8pm, Prairie Ink. No cover. Jokers of the Scene — The kind of music this eclectic, interesting act from Toronto plays is hard to define. Think techno/ synth/noise mished and mashed into one of the brightest, weirdest, craziest lights on the Canadian dance music scene. Also appearing will be Charly Hustle. 10pm, Scratch. Tickets TBD. On Rotation DJ Series: The Sex — Come check out this local act spin the kind of beats that’ll get you up and moving. 10pm, The Spadina Freehouse. No cover. Don Anaquod — Come check out this local musician rock the night away. 7pm, Stan’s Place. No cover. Dueling Pianos — Terry Hoknes, Neil Currie and Brad King belt out classic tunes and audience requests, from Sinatra to Lady Gaga. 10pm, Staqatto Piano Lounge. No cover until 8pm, $5 thereafter. DJ Miss Hightower — Known for her bumping basslines that never fail to send audiences into a frenzy, this Winnipegbased DJ brings a dirty electro house style you won’t want to miss. 7:30pm, Tequila Nightclub. Cover $5. Jeans Boots — Do you like Stevie Nicks? How about Velvet Underground. If you answered yes to either (or both) of those questions, you might want to check out this talented act during the Mixed Media 3 party. Acts will include soprano Anastasia Winterhalt, a dance performance by Kyle Syverson, and DJs Chris Cake and Conrad Devine, among others. 7pm, The Two Twenty. Tickets $7 (picatic.com).

Sunday 29

DJ SUGAR DADDY — Able to rock any party, this crowd favourite has always been known to break the latest and greatest tracks in multiple genres. 11pm, béily’s

(NEXT WEEK) SWEET ALIBI @ THE BASSMENT — Since forming in 2009,

this folk/roots act from Winnipeg have been leaving audiences spellbound. With playful lyrics set to powerful vocal harmonies and sweet, soulful melodies, this trio puts on an entertaining, compelling show. Consisting of three

Photo: courtesy of the artist

core members — Jessica Ray Ayre, Amber Nielsen and Michelle Anderson —Sweet Alibi is backed by an array of other musicians that help them create their intimate, quirky sound. They’ll be playing The Bassment at 8 PM on May 9 th. Tickets are $12-$15. -Adam Hawboldt. Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

Music

Page 22

Apr 27–May 3, ‘12 VerbNews.com and Kid Rock, these guys have honed their chops in venues big and small. 10pm, Buds on Broadway. $6 cover. DJ SUGAR DADDY — Able to rock any party, this crowd favourite has always been known to break the latest and greatest tracks in multiple genres. Doors 9pm, Hudsons Canadian Tap House. No cover.

The Malibu Knights — This rock trio from Kelowna, B.C., has been touring Canada relentlessly for the past few years. As the opening act for the likes of Bon Jovi and Kid Rock, these guys have honed their chops in venues big and small. 10pm, Buds on Broadway. $6 cover.

Tuesday 1

The Avenue Recording Company presents Open Mic — Hosted by Chad Reynolds. Sign up and play at this weekly event. 10pm, The Fez on Broadway. No cover

(COMING UP) SNOOP DOGG @ ODEON Events centre — Snoop-a-Loop is

coming to town! Since dropping his debut album, Doggystyle, in 1993, Snoop Dogg (aka Calvin Broadus Jr.) has used his smooth-as-molasses delivery and slick, melodic rhyming to achieve world (almost otherworldly) fame. He’s been

Photo: courtesy of the artist

in movies, on television, endorsed everything from Chrysler to Colt 45 and, in the process has sold a couple of records. Snoop will be bringing his iconic sound to the Odeon Events Centre this summer, on July 16th. Tickets TBD. -Adam Hawboldt. Feedback? Text it to 306-881-8372.

until 10pm, $3 thereafter.

DJ Kade — Saskatoon DJ lights it up with hot tunes. 8pm, The Hose & Hydrant. No cover. Dr. J ‘Souled Out’ — Dr. J spins hot funk and soul every Wednesday night. Doors 9pm, Lydia’s Pub. No cover.

DJ SUGAR DADDY — Able to rock any party, this crowd favourite has always been known to break the latest and greatest tracks in multiple genres. 9:30pm, The Double Deuce. $4 cover.

Jen Lane and Smokekiller — These local musicians play the sort of straightahead rhythms that are infectious and have the kind of simple harmonies you can’t resist. 8pm, Rock Creek Tap & Grill.

VERB PRESENTS OPEN STAGE — The open stage at Lydia’s has hosted many of Saskatoon’s finest performers, and is a chance for bands, solo artists and even comedians to showcase original material. 9pm, Lydia’s Pub. No cover.

WHINE UP WEDNESDAYS — A night dedicated to promoting the best in reggae, roots, dancehall, African beats, Kwaito & hip hop. Hosted by Scott Turner & DJ Heywood. 10pm, Scratch. $5 cover.

Open Mic — Come out to show your talent. 7pm, The Somewhere Else Pub. No cover.

Wednesday 2

HUMP WEDNESDAYS — Resident DJ Chris Knorr will be spinning all of your favourite songs and requests, every Wednesday night! Doors at 7pm, DJ takes requests at 9pm, 302 Lounge & Discotheque. No cover

Dueling Pianos — Terry Hoknes, Neil Currie and Brad King belt out classic tunes and audience requests, from Sinatra to Lady Gaga. 10pm, Staqatto Piano Lounge. No cover.

Thursday 3

Slow Down, Molasses — This local indie-rock collective have an interesting sound. Their songs, which begin as sparse

arrangements, build and build until they explode into incredible indie-folk anthems. The opening act will be The Foggy Notions. 9pm, The Bassment. Tickets $10 for members, $13 for non-members. Throwback Thursdays — Come experience the best in retro funk, soul, reggae and rock provided by Dr. J. 8pm, Earls. No cover Hip Hop Night — Hosted by Ease, this is a night of live performances, rap battles and DJs, with $150 in prizes to be won. Don’t miss it. 9pm, The Fez on Broadway. No cover. DJ Kade — Saskatoon DJ lights it up with hot tunes. 8pm, The Hose &Hydrant. No cover. DJ Sugar Daddy & DJ J-Mats — Local DJs J-Mats and Sugar Daddy will be rocking the turntables to get you dancing on the dance floor! Every Thursday night will be filled with passion parties, pole dancing, shadow dancers and much more! 8pm, Jax Niteclub. $5 cover, free cover with student ID before 11pm. Stone Iris — Combining hints of blues, funk, rock and reggae, this Edmonton-bases seven-piece have an eccentric, fine-tuned sound. 10pm, Lydia’s Pub. Cover $3. DJ Big Ayyy — This Saskatoon DJ is the resident country rock turntablist at Outlaws. Outlaws: your party place to be! 9pm, Outlaws Country Rock Bar. $5 cover. TRIPLE UP THURSDAY — Come start your weekend early at Triple Up Thursday! With these top 40 dance and electro resident DJs, you’ll be shaking it on the dance floor in no time. 8pm, Tequila Nightclub. $3 at the door.

Want your show listed? Email layout@verbnews.com!

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Once again, dear Pisces: “Never let the opinions of others bother you.” You may be down because of someone else, but snap out of it! Once you realize you rock, what others think won’t matter one iota.

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Pisces (Feb 20–Mar 20)

You’re conscientious, dear Virgo. We all know that. But this week it’s okay to take your foot off the gas, so to speak. 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.

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Aquarius (Jan 20–Feb 19)

If things get tough or frustrating this week, don’t let them get to you, dear Leo. You have the ability to see that proverbial silver lining, so try to find something positive. Everything else will sort itself out.

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Leo (Jul 23–Aug 22)

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You’re going to be busy this week, dear Capricorn. Not to worry though — when you’re busy troubles fade into the background. 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. Not only is it good for your body, but it will also give you an abundance of mental energy.

We spend most of our time trying to stay afloat in the ever-flowing current of the passing present. We all have to get in touch with the past from time to time, though, so choose what’s best for you.

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Cancer (Jun 21–Jul 22)

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 — now is your time!

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Sagittarius (Nov 23–Dec 21)

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Gemini (May 21–Jun 20)

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This week you might want to be in control, dear Scorpio, 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)

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 should be smoothing out pretty quick.

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Taurus (Apr 20–May 20)

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Have you recently achieved a goal of yours, dear Libra? 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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Libra (Sept 23–Oct 23)

It would be wise of you to be aware this week, dear Aries. If you truly pay attention to others, they’ll share things with you that could change your perception of the world.

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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

Page 23

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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 4 3

3 8 5

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

3 2