Fulcrum 120408

Letters University education is not a right… Think again! Re: “University education is not a right” (Letters, Nov. 21) YOU PRESENTED, IN your letter, some pretty convincing arguments in support of your claims. But allow me to tell you that your point of view is a little bit out of focus. I understand your feeling that the less people who earn a degree equivalent to yours, the more valuable your degree will become. When we want to talk about education, we should take into consideration what is best for Canada and Canadians rather than the desires of the few who want their university degree to be a ticket to an elite club. It will be much more beneficial for Canada and its economy to have 1,000 degree holders with an average of 60 per cent then having only 100 of them with an average of 90 per cent. The second thing that you may have overlooked is the fact that high university grades do not determine whether or not you will be successful later on in your career. A GPA of 9.0 may help you get hired faster than others. But, when it comes to actually working in your field, it will be only your charisma, perseverance, dedication, and innovation that will help you get a promotion or a raise. All of these skills are neither marked on exams nor calculated in your GPA. In engineering, for example, many professionals will say that 90 per cent of the knowledge that they use in their

everyday work was learned after their graduation; and don’t expect a student who got an A+ in an entrepreneurship course to become the next Bill Gates. So why shouldn’t we make education available to all regardless of their financial status or ability to obtain scholarships? The Germans, French, and other Europeans have realized the importance of education, yet Canada is falling behind and the Canadian government is too shortsighted to realize it. I personally prefer to renounce the bragging rights that come with my engineering degree and become part of a productive nation that has the largest possible percentage of highly educated citizens who are capable of sustaining its economy rather than being in a country where 80 per cent of its people are unable or unwilling to get a university education, while there are thousands of opportunities with no one qualified enough to take advantage of them. Antoine Maalouf Third-year electrical engineering student An open letter to SFUO President Dean Haldenby DEAR MR. HALDENBY, This letter is not a complaint about the result of the Canadian Federation of Students (CFS) referendum. Rather, I am writing to voice my concern over the direction of our student body. Since the end of the referendum, I

Contents

Sexual harassment at the U of O

News

Inari Vaissi Nagy sheds light on how campus resources are handling the issue. p. 8

p. 5

U of O rings in Human Rights Day, launches online forum to draft declaration of student rights. p. 6

All scrooged up

Arts

Peter Henderson interviews Canadian actor John Huston. p.10

p. 10

Jaclyn Lytle finds some cheap holiday gifts you wouldn’t want to re-gift. p. 11

Handing out the (metaphorical) hardware

Sports

The Fulcrum awards the U of O’s standout athletes with the Cavalry Awards. p. 16

p. 16 Feature

Go out and play in the snow! Jaclyn Lytle tells you where to go. p. 17

Food and ethics Jessica Carter explains how the two are not mutually exclusive. p. 12–13 Di answers more than two questions! p. 22

p. 12

Frank Appleyard Editor-in-Chief [email protected] Dec. 4, 2008–Jan. 7, 2009 have been bombarded by calls to fall in line with the decision and to set aside differences so that we can move forward in unity. My differences are not petty or personal, so it will be very difficult for me to just set them aside. Secondly, and more importantly, how can you ask a student population that has shown itself to be deeply divided over real issues, to move forward as one? This ridiculous notion that “we are only as divided as we choose to be” is nothing more than self-congratulatory condescension. I have spent the last few months watching my elected student representatives advance a personal agenda without concern for the state of our student body. What happened to the responsibilities of the Student Federation of the University of Ottawa (SFUO)? This campus used to have wonderful community-oriented events that benefited many people. Those are all gone now, forgotten and pushed to the sidelines while you bring the CFS to our campus. I was told that the SFUO would take no official position on this issue and yet elected members of my supposedly neutral student federation gave presentations advocating for the Yes side in my class and wore Yes campaign T-shirts as they walked around. I sat in a waiting room in InfoService and listened to one elected member of the SFUO spend 15 minutes convincing a girl that if she voted yes our tuition fees would go down and that students would have a louder voice in this country. I read a quote in the Fulcrum by you, Mr. Haldenby, suggesting that our previous referendum to leave the CFS was nothing more than a personal squabble between two people who didn’t like each other, shamelessly belittling the votes of thousands of politically aware students who decided to leave CFS in the first place. I watched these same people bring ballot boxes to the SFUO office at the end of a long day, despite the clear fact that they were partisan members who could access this office whenever they chose. I heard of how yet another one of these supposedly neutral parties gave away SFUO Volunteer Bash tickets to others who advocated for the Yes campaign. What did our elected representatives spend their time doing when they weren’t working on the referendum? What work could not be done while you all worked tirelessly to get the word out for the Yes side?

Individuals are allowed to have opinions, but who represents me if my student government has no desire to represent both sides of the student population? How can you claim to be able to lead us forward together in unity if you have taken sides and managed to divide us? How can you bring us forward when you have utterly failed to bring any leadership to your position? When there is no leadership, there is no direction. I sincerely hope that we can come together as a student population and continue to achieve great things and to bring respect to our campus. If we do this, however, it won’t be through your work or that of the rest of the SFUO. If this student population comes together it will entirely be of their doing. Should you or any of your co-workers seriously be contemplating re-election, or election to a new position, I encourage you all to reflect not on whether you will be successful, but whether or not you are what this campus needs. In my opinion, not a single one of you knows what it means to represent the student body with integrity. Meaghan Jones Fifth-year political science and criminology student Haldenby responds DEAR MEAGHAN, I want to thank you for voicing your concerns on the direction of the student body or student movement, rather than harbouring these concerns. Unity is imperative to the success of our SFUO. I do not want to diminish your feelings of being asked to “fall in line” or move “forward as one”, but rather explain a possible reason for this. Students, through their student representatives, asked for a referendum. One of the major misconceptions students had during this referendum is that the CFS is not representative of everyone and it is not an organization that accepts change easily. I would argue that asking us to move forward as one and asking us to put aside our differences are attempts at encouraging an inclusive SFUO, furthering an inclusive CFS. The SFUO did not take an official stance on the CFS. This was important to student leaders because we felt that students needed to make up their own minds. Our elected members are students as well, it would be hardly

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fair to keep certain students from campaigning for or against on an issue such as this because they were actively involved in our organization. Both sides of the question had a mix of elected officials registered for their campaign, from throughout our federation. It is obvious that the choice to leave in 1995 was more than a political squabble. It was a fully run referendum, just like the one we witnessed a couple weeks ago. The question from the reporter was “what initiated that referendum?” and I apologize if I nuanced anything else—I was misinformed of both sides of a story and for that I apologize. In fact, since then I have had many conversations with former SFUO president Alain Gauthier regarding the referendum and it is apparent that there was more to it than I had understood. During the recent referendum, ballot boxes were kept in a secure location away from the SFUO offices. All were sealed and scrutinized before our counting began. Our pollsters consisted of one choice from the CFS Referendum Oversight Committee representatives and one choice from the SFUO. No campaign representatives or volunteers had access to any referendum-sensitive areas. Neither did any misappropriations of Volunteer Bash tickets take place. LETTERS continued on p. 4

thefulcrum.ca poll Last week’s results Which companion of the Order of Canada has had the greatest impact on the country? Terry Fox: 15% Margaret Atwood 0% Tommy Douglas: 39% Pierre Elliot Trudeau: 40% 6% David Suzuki: Correction An article in the Nov. 27 issue of the Fulcrum incorrectly identified an incident involving Denis Rancourt as occuring on Nov. 22. The incident actually occurred on Nov. 21. The Fulcrum regrets the error.

Got something to say? Send your letters to

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[email protected] Letters deadline: Sunday, 1 p.m. Letters must be under 400 words unless discussed with the editor-in-chief. Drop off letters at 631 King Edward Ave. or e-mail [email protected]. Letters must include your name, telephone number, year, and program of study. Pseudonyms may be used after consultation with the editor-in-chief. We correct spelling and grammar to some extent. The Fulcrum will exercise discretion in printing letters that are deemed racist, homophobic, or sexist. We will not even consider hate literature or libellous material. The editor-in-chief reserves the authority on everything printed herein.

LETTERS continued from p. 3 Every member of our executive works tirelessly to ensure that we are accomplishing our goals together and that student rights are being defended. During the referendum period, I kept 80-hour weeks, sometimes not getting any sleep for a couple days to ensure a well-run referendum and SFUO at the same time. My executive was no less hard-working. This is passion and responsibility for our students. The SFUO is not just six executives. We have hundreds of volunteers and employees, and dozens of board members and federated body executives with hundreds of different views on the issues we feel are important to students. The key to leadership is bringing that all together and making decisions in the best interest of students. Whether you like it or not I will always work my hardest to ensure that our organization is offering the best possible service to our students, I will always take student opinion into account, and I will always work to have a more progressive and inclusive SFUO. This is the direction we are moving in and I am going to continue to lead that direction. Whether or not you agree with the direction the SFUO is moving in, please know that your voice and suggestions are always welcome at the table. Please let me know if you have any further suggestions, questions, or concerns. Dean Haldenby SFUO president

An appeal for kindness and remorse

Rising above division

IT IS WITH grave sadness and difficulty that I inform U of O students of the following tragedy. On Nov. 23, the Communication Student Association held an (epic) dodgeball tournament, open to the students of our prestigious learning establishment. Much fun was had by all and it was the grandest of affairs. We laughed, we cried, we sweat, dipped, dodged, and dived. (Shoutout to the Fulcrum team who played valiantly through to the semi-finals, only to lose to the eventual champions.) Spirits were high and excitement permeated the air as we approached the championship match-up. Unfortunately, however, a piece of every one of us died inside when an unforgiveable crime took place at an innocent social event. To the criminals (let us refer to them as the Pink Team): I am ever so disappointed by your cruel decision to steal an entire cardboard box full of Pop-Tarts intended for the winning team of the tournament. Each of you showed very poor sportsmanship and consequently broke the hearts of six young men who I personally had to inform, would not receive the hundreds of Pop-Tarts they played so hard for. For your heinous act, I implore you to reason and to repent. An apology is due. Greggory Clark CSA student representative

LIKE MANY OF my peers who graduated from U of O in the last few years, I found myself drawn into the drama unfolding on campus over the CFS referendum. The results show that the student community has made a decision, albeit narrowly, and that is something that everyone must accept, no matter how bitter a pill it may be to swallow. However, in looking at the outcome, the victors must realize that on this issue, perhaps more than any other the SFUO has confronted in recent years, there is tremendous division. The SFUO has a long tradition of strong leadership and getting results from outside of the ‘movement’. It has made tremendous efforts to find selfmade solutions to real problems, and has been wildly successful at doing so. The new CFS affiliation can never be allowed to take away the SFUO’s ability to take care of its own problems its own way. The SFUO represents a student body that is as diverse politically as it is ethnically or linguistically. U of O students do not comprise a single political entity, but a collection of ideas and beliefs that sometimes come into conflict. It has always been our strength to be able to rise above political bickering and make decisions that more often than not improve the state of the community. After such a divisive campaign, it is now incumbent upon the victors to work in good faith with their rivals to chart the course forward. Although they have lost the vote, their voice is

still important. Among the first steps that must be taken is to submit for public scrutiny the finances for the Yes campaign. We know that the No side spent approximately 86 cents for every vote they earned. How much did a Yes vote cost? Every penny spent by the Yes side was paid for out of student pockets. In every democratic exercise Canadians participate in, financial transparency is paramount to ensuring a fair process was undertaken. This referendum is no different, and the electors have a right to know. In closing, I would like to congratulate Ryan Kennery, Michèle Lamarche, and their team for their hard work and well-fought campaign. They did an admirable job in creating a grassroots campaign that went toe-to-toe with the largest student organization in the country and damn near came out on top. Whether you agree with their position or not, they accomplished a great deal, and this should be enough to earn the admiration of all. Charles Fisher U of O alumnus CFS reflection THIS IS MERELY some sharing of thought reflecting on the ‘democratic’ and ‘unbiased’ campaign that took place on both sides of the CFS referendum. Throwing me for a loop were the tactics and strategy used on the Yes campaign. They outspent the No campaign nearly 4:1; entirely within the

rules, so hats off to them. However, the need to produce immediate financial assets for campaign purposes was easier for an organization already hoarding millions of dollars it has collected from students across the country. This left all the top No campaigners paying out of their own pockets for hundreds of dollars worth of promotion material to be visible on campus. It doesn’t end there. Referendum Oversight Committee rules permit up to 30 non-SFUO members per day to actively campaign. Isn’t it interesting that the CFS flew in 30 of its own finest campaign staff specifically for the purpose of this referendum? The best part of flying in campaign staff is their being paid for by the CFS. That money comes from current members of the CFS—students. No one has ever suggested we should allow lobbyists who aren’t students to campaign on behalf of a multi-million dollar corporation. These CFS ponies never should have set foot on this campus; they have no business interfering in a referendum of this magnitude. Students are perfectly capable of running their own Yes and No campaigns; and are also perfectly capable of making up their minds without being lobbied by people who aren’t students themselves. [continued at thefulcrum.ca/letters] Paul Taillon Second-year management student Due to space constraints, we were unable to publish all letters received this week. Visit thefulcrum.ca to read more.

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LETTERS

Dec. 4, 2008

www.thefulcrum.ca

News

Emma Godmere News Editor [email protected] Dec. 4, 2008–Jan. 7, 2009

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Deregistered student arrested after filming Senate meeting Marc Kelly charged with causing a disturbance after “shouting” during proceedings by Emma Godmere Fulcrum Staff AT APPROXIMATELY 4 p.m. on Dec. 1, deregistered physics student Marc Kelly was removed from University of Ottawa premises in the back of an Ottawa Police cruiser. Kelly, who has been in conflict with the U of O for months surrounding his deregistration from the physics program, being barred from his research lab, and being denied a seat on the Senate Appeals Committee, was escorted out of Tabaret Hall for causing a disturbance after attempting to film the 3 p.m. Senate meeting occurring inside—a meeting normally considered open to the public. “You don’t know if it’s a public meeting or not unless you go there and you ask the question, ‘Is this a public meeting?’” said Kelly. “You want to know how public is the meeting … so you go and you try and videotape, [and] you find out the answer.” Kelly admitted that once it was clear he was not allowed to record the proceedings, he began to shout, quoting the University of Ottawa’s perspective on transparency. “I was shouting the mission statement of the university. I said, ‘According to [the] University of Ottawa’s Vision 2010, transparency is one of the principles that [govern] our institution,’” he said. Present at the Senate meeting was U of O communications director Andrée Dumulon, who said she “very kindly” asked Kelly to stop videotaping the proceedings. She indicated that VP

A police car carrying deregistered student Marc Kelly leaves Tabaret Hall on Dec. 1. Academic Robert Major—who was overseeing the meeting in place of U of O President Allan Rock—decided to call Protection Services after Kelly started shouting. “A decision was made to call Protection Services, Protection Services came, and ... they are not allowed to escort someone outside, so then a decision was made [by Protection Services] to call the Ottawa Police,” she explained. Mireille Gervais, coordinator of the Student Appeal Centre—where Kelly has previously lodged academic complaints against the university regarding his deregistration—said that no one provided Kelly with a clear rule stating that he couldn’t film the meeting. “He was informed by Protection

Services that he either had to take the camera out or they were calling the police,” said Gervais. “He asked under which policy he’s not allowed to film, and they couldn’t provide [him] with a policy.” Dumulon indicated no such policy currently exists. However, the Senate has passed a motion to prohibit videotaping meetings. “The bottom line is that there is a rule, there’s a decision that was taken by the Senate—I’m not sure exactly when—prohibiting the recording of the proceedings of the Senate,” she explained. “There’s no policy, but Major, yesterday at the meeting, did say that we will develop a policy.” Gervais and several executives and employees from the Student Federation of the University of Ottawa

photo by Emma Godmere

(SFUO) followed Kelly as he was escorted out of Tabaret Hall by police officers. “I filmed the police officer putting the handcuffs on him and then the police officer immediately asked the Protection officer to remove the camera from my hands and the camera was seized,” said Gervais. “Then [they] brought Marc outside, we were following, and they kept on telling us that we were [obstructing] justice.” Several recording devices were confiscated from Kelly, Gervais, and SFUO VP Communications Julie Séguin. SFUO President Dean Haldenby indicated they were present to “show solidarity” for their students, and he was not pleased with the actions of the university. “The fact that one of our students

was arrested shows that I don’t think we’re dealing with a university anymore,” he said. “We’re dealing with University of Ottawa Incorporated, which is even more troubling.” Kelly was released approximately an hour after his arrest. At the same time, all of the recording devices were returned and placed in his possession. While he claimed that he was arrested for trespassing as well, Ottawa Police Constable Jean-Paul Vincelette confirmed that as of press time, Kelly was charged only with causing a disturbance. “Cause of disturbance is under the criminal code, so it appears like that’s the only [charge] at this time,” Vincelette said. “The report is not completely finished yet; the investigator is still working on it.” Kelly explained that, upon being released from custody, he signed a document indicating that he is barred from entering U of O property. If he is seen on campus, he can be detained and sent to jail. “But I told them that I was an employee; I had to be on campus,” said Kelly, who maintained that he still holds a research contract with the U of O. “[The police officer] said that when he called in, Protection Services informed him that I wasn’t an employee.” Kelly felt these actions by the U of O, who declined to comment on his status as either a student or an employee at the university, were unjustifiable. “What you see is that they are arresting a student for shouting the mission statement of the university. You have to realize that makes absolutely no sense. So then there must be another reason why they’re arresting me, and that’s a politically motivated reason.”

CFS passes GSAÉD/SFUO motion to oppose federal economic update Motion ‘strongly opposes’ Conservative move and calls for opposition cooperation by Emma Godmere Fulcrum Staff AN EMERGENCY MOTION denouncing the Conservative government’s Nov. 27 economic update was passed at the end of closing plenary at the Canadian Federation of Students’ (CFS) National General Meeting (NGM) on Nov. 29 in Ottawa. The motion, which was proposed by CFS member local 94, the U of O Graduate Students’ Association (GSAÉD), and seconded by CFS member local 41, the Student Federation of the University of Ottawa (SFUO), cited the lack of investment in public infrastructure outlined and

the need for investing in post-secondary education as an economic stimulus as the primary reasons that the economic update should be “strongly opposed”. The motion also called for federal opposition parties to “work together to oppose the economic update and to develop a plan to increase funding for public infrastructure, including a dedicated provincial transfer for post-secondary education that promotes national standards in quality and affordability.” Gaétan Beaulière, chair of GSAÉD Council and one of two local 94 delegates at the Nov. 26–29 NGM, drafted the motion in an attempt to reaffirm the CFS’s position that post-secondary education should be a foremost government issue. “The reason we wanted to pass that motion was that, first of all, there’s nothing in that economic update that serves the student interest,” he said.

“The motion basically re-states what has been [the] CFS position for a long time now, and it … asks the opposition parties to collaborate on developing a plan that would better suit the student interest.” Federico Carvajal, external commissioner for GSAÉD and the other local 94 delegate at the NGM, indicated that the government overlooked the importance of education in its economic update. “I think that we recognized … [within the CFS] that there is a direct connection between the economy and, obviously, education, and at a time of economic strife, when unemployment rates are going to continue to rise, and when the economy in Ontario specifically is under so much pressure and the manufacturing sector is collapsing, then that’s going to have a direct impact on universities as people look to be re-

trained and change careers because of the loss of jobs,” he said. “It was obvious that the Harper government was not interested in governing for people, but rather for their own corporate interests.” Beaulière reiterated, however, that the motion was not intended to specifically denounce or support any particular party or group of parties. “It was not partisan at all. The point was not to condemn the Conservative government, but more to clearly state that we disagree with the economic update and what it’s trying to do,” he said. “I believe that CFS has always been ready to work with whoever is the governing party, and whatever happens, we’ll be, I think, more than willing to work with them.” Carvajal emphasized the effectiveness of the SFUO’s presence at the NGM, beyond solely their support for the emergency motion.

“It definitely changed the dynamics by having the SFUO there as full members, having the representatives from the [executive] and the executive coordinator there,” he explained. “The University of Ottawa [was present] in many more committees and constituency groups.” SFUO VP University Affairs Seamus Wolfe, who helped draft the SFUO-supported motion, noted U of O students’ concerns regarding representation in the CFS and explained that the SFUO’s participation, particularly in passing the motion at the NGM, solidified their presence in the national organization. “The way that we were able to get [the motion] across, by having GSAÉD put it forward, and us second it, really showed that the University of Ottawa is at the table and will have a large voice [in] the Canadian Federation of Students.”

City of Ottawa, U of O mark International Human Rights Day University to kick off online forum to develop student rights document by Amanda Shendruk Fulcrum Staff ON DEC. 10, the City of Ottawa will officially recognize International Human Rights Day for the first time. The date marks the 60th anniversary of the United Nations General Assembly’s adoption and proclamation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The Student Federation of the University of Ottawa’s (SFUO) Centre for Equity and Human Rights (CEHR) was instrumental in making the celebration of this day a reality in Ottawa. The organization presented a proposal to the city encouraging Ottawa to join cities across the world in formally acknowledging the day. “Human rights are really fundamental to the way that we organize our society and so fundamental to the way we live our day-to-day lives,” said Caroline Lester, campaigns and communications coordinator at the CEHR. The United Nations officially adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights on Dec. 10, 1948, in the wake of the Second World War, identifying the protected rights of all human beings. It holds the world record for being the most translated document—it can be read in over 360 languages. In recognition of this day, the City of Ottawa has developed an official proclamation of human rights, which will be read in the Unicentre Agora on Dec. 10 at noon. SFUO executives

will speak at the event, as will Ottawa Centre member of Parliament Paul Dewar. As part of the celebration, the CEHR will host a free tasting of teas from around the world and present a juried art exhibit on the theme of commonality and diversity. As the U of O is one of the only Canadian universities to not have an anti-discrimination and anti-harassment policy, Lester said the day holds special significance for the school. “Having Human Rights Day being recognized is just one step further in recognizing the importance of human rights on campus,” she said. Since the end of the controversial student code of conduct that was proposed in April, several groups at the U of O have been working towards the development of a declaration of students’ rights. The SFUO and the Graduate Students’ Association (GSAÉD), in conjunction with the U of O’s office of the secretary and U of O President Allan Rock, are launching an online forum at noon with an open event in the Agora on Dec. 5 to kickoff the development of such a document. “What we’re hoping to accomplish is to engage the university community, but especially students, around the issue of students’ rights,” said GSAÉD University Affairs Commissioner Serge Dupuis. “We came to the conclusion that it was probably a good idea to take this process outside the closed offices of the university administration and actually start talking about it in the community.” The online forum will allow students and staff the opportunity to actively participate in determining the make-up of the declaration. Following two months of online discussion, the SFUO and GSAÉD hope to prepare a document and present a declaration of rights for the university community to the U of O Senate in March.

Happy holidays!

Love, The Fulcrum

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NEWS

Dec. 4, 2008

University responds to SAC’s ‘inflammatory’ allegations by Amanda Shendruk Fulcrum Staff ON NOV. 25 the University of Ottawa released an evaluation of the Student Federation of the University of Ottawa’s (SFUO) Student Appeals Centre (SAC) 2008 annual report, which stated that the report is methodologically unsound and that the centre’s allegations of systemic racism in the U of O student appeals process is “unsubstantiated, inconclusive, and inflammatory”. The SAC report was released on Nov. 12 and detailed the barriers that students allegedly face when filing and following academic appeals in the university administration. The report claimed that the university’s appeals process exemplifies “systemic racism” and “mistreatment of students”. The SAC report evaluation—which was conducted by U of O professor Joanne St. Lewis, who is the current director of the U of O’s Human Rights Research and Education Centre, and former co-chair of the Canadian Bar Association Working Group on Racial Equality—highlights methodological errors within the SAC document, provides an extensive explanation of the appeals process, and offers recommendations for both the university administration and the SAC. “I found the report to be very unprofessional in tone,” St. Lewis stated in the evaluation. “It is the methodological failures and the lack of substantiation which makes the report most troubling. The matters raised within the report of possible systemic racism and procedural unfairness are significant issues and cannot be given short shrift by the University.” “Never did we pretend to be publishing a scientific or academic report,” said SAC coordinator Mireille Gervais, in response to the evaluation. “Our job is to denounce injustice, to speak

on behalf of students, and our report is a testimonial based on our experience over the past year.” The evaluation suggested that the SAC has a poor understanding of the student appeal process, which may have led to their allegations of racism. “I certainly [do] not want people to take my criticism of the report as a lack of confidence or indeed support for student-based peer support initiatives on such an important issue,” St. Lewis told the Fulcrum, via email. “It is because I think that the SAC can play such a central role that I want their reports to have the foundation they require to be taken seriously and impact university policy when necessary.” The evaluation offers an extensive description of the current academic fraud process, stating explicitly that both the SFUO and the SAC’s fondness for appealing directly to U of O President Allan Rock in attempts to influence student appeal proceedings is inappropriate. “It is very disappointing that the SAC, who are charged with providing students with advice on university processes, would seek to circumvent those processes by directly writing to either the [vp] academic and provost or the president,” wrote St. Lewis in the report. “[The provost and president] have no institutional capacity to affect the Senate Appeals [Committee] decision.” In the evaluation, St. Lewis offered recommendations to both SAC and university administration for ensuring that the appeals process is effective and free of racism. Her primary recommendation was a timely independent assessment of the academic fraud cases filed by the SAC. In regards to the allegations of systemic racism, St. Lewis admitted in the evaluation that she could not conclude either way. “The short answer for this evaluator on whether there is systemic racism in the admin-

photo by Martha Pearce

Professor Joanne St. Lewis’ examination of the SAC report was released Nov. 25. istration of the academic fraud process at the discriminatory behavior. University of Ottawa is: I don’t know,” she wrote Although Gervais questioned the indepenin her report. “What I do know is that this re- dence of the evaluation, as St. Lewis is an emport does not establish this in any measurable ployee of the U of O, and said that St. Lewis’ or analytically plausible fashion.” evaluation and the SAC annual report were writSt. Lewis explained in her email to the Ful- ten from opposing perspectives, she stressed the crum that many of the methodological errors importance of moving past the assessment. committed in the SAC report could have been “The issues are still there, regardless of what avoided if the centre had first reviewed the On- you think of the report,” she said. “I think the tario Human Rights Code public information gist of the evaluation is that Ms. St. Lewis and page on racism and racial discrimination, which I agree that at least the university needs to look outlines the proper ways to assess systemically into this issue more.”

Stay involved, stay informed THIS DECEMBER, SEVERAL open forums organized by the University of Ottawa, the Student Federation of the University of Ottawa (SFUO), and the Graduate Students’ Association (GSAÉD) will be held to gather input from all U of O students on a variety of topics. The Fulcrum has composed a list of several of the upcoming ones and encourages all students to have your voice heard.

Thursday, Dec. 4

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Friday, Dec. 5 SFUO, GSAÉD, U of O forum: Forum for a declaration on students’ rights. Noon. Unicentre Agora. Free. The University of Ottawa, in partnership with the SFUO and GSAÉD, is launching an online forum for students to offer their input as the university begins drafting a declaration of students’ rights. For more information, check out president. uottawa.ca/event-details_142.html.

SFUO forum: Imagine: Your Student Centre. 2 p.m. Unicentre couch lounge. Free.

SFUO roundtable: SFUO electoral reform. 2 p.m. SFUO Boardroom, UCU 07. Free.

Undergraduate students are invited to bring forth any ideas for a student-run, student-owned centre the SFUO is looking to construct in the near future. Any ideas can be submitted prior to the meeting at [email protected], and more information can be found at the “Imagine : Your Student Centre / Votre Centre étudiant” Facebook group.

The SFUO elections committee is proposing a change to the existing plurality voting system for electing SFUO executives. Thoughts on the proposed new process—posted in detail at sfuo.ca/pdf/11-02 - electoral reform.pdf—can be forward to [email protected]. For more information, visit sfuo.ca/english/ index.htm.

Dec. 4, 2008

NEWS

7

More than ‘no means no’

photo by Frank Appleyard

The Fulcrum explores the resources fighting sexual harassment at the U of O by Inari Vaissi Nagy Fulcrum Staff THE UNIVERSITY OF Ottawa’s Sexual Harassment Office (SHO) is one service on campus that students hope to never need—but it exists because sexual harassment does occur on campuses across the country, and the U of O is no exception. The hub of a network of services providing support for those affected by sexual harassment, the SHO works in collaboration with Protection Services, Student Academic Success Service (SASS) counselling, Health Services, the Pride Centre, the Centre for Equity and Human Rights (CEHR), and the Women’s Resource Centre (WRC) to prevent sexual harassment and discrimination. and help those affected by it. at the University of Ottawa. The Sexual Harassment Office The SHO provides confidential service to anyone in the university community affected by sexual harassment, which is defined in university policies as “a sexually oriented remark or behaviour which may reasonably be perceived to create a negative psychological and emotional environment for work or study”. A large portion of the SHO’s work involves investigating allegations of harassment, a process that involves many hours of intervention with multiple parties. The SHO officially presented its annual report for the 2007–08 academic year at the Board of Governors’ Oct. 27 meeting. Between May 2007 and April 2008, 79 reports were made to the SHO, slightly more than the annual average of 73 complaints over the last five years. Eighty per cent of the reports cited incidents in which females were harassed by males. Only one formal complaint that involved investigation by university officials was made in 2007–08. “My feeling is that there was quite a lot of work done last year in terms of increasing awareness

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of the issue of harassment, of sexual harassment, and the services available to deal with it,” said Lisa Stone, who took over the position of harassment and discrimination prevention officer at the SHO in October. “I don’t think that it’s an increase in incidents, I think it’s an increase in people understanding that what happened to them may constitute sexual harassment and isn’t okay.”

Prevention at the U of O

A network of services and groups on campus, including the Pride Centre, have come together to form the Harassment Resource Committee (HRC) with the goal of preventing harassment and discrimination in the university community. Nathalie Jacob, coordinator of prevention programs and student liaison with Protection Services, outlined this initiative in an email to Other resources available on campus the Fulcrum. “Through the [HRC], a working group is curPeople who have experienced sexual harass- rently developing an awareness campaign about ment on campus can also find support at SASS, the prevention of harassment and other human the main resource on rights issues as well as campus for those seeksexual violence,” she ing professional counsaid. “Upon approval “There’s a resistance among of other committees, selling. “We handle over the senior administrators to this campaign should 1,000 requests each take place [in] early year from students portray any campus as having March 2009.” needing personal The HRC campaign problems of violence.” counselling. I would Holly Johnson, is based on a social estimate that about Department of Criminology norms change strat10 per cent of these egy employed in other senior research associate requests involve sexNorth American uniual issues including versities. It will target sexual harassment,” all levels of the U of O said Donald Martin, manager of the SASS community with specific messages delivered by counselling service. “There was an increase campus champions—figures like student athletes, of about 10 per cent in the overall number of politicians, and faculty members who will encourrequests for service [in 2007–08], but not a age positive daily action by everyone in the comsignificant increase in cases involving sexual munity to help prevent discrimination on the basis harassment.” of sex, gender, race, religion, or ability. The SHO is seeking to broaden its mandate A challenge for these preventative efforts is the to include diverse forms of harassment and university’s lack of an established blanket policy discrimination on campus. Pride Centre ser- on discrimination, according to Francine Page, vice coordinator Evan Hazenberg explained student advocate and director of the CEHR. that issues of sexual harassment and discrimi“We expect our students to live unhindered nation are even more complex in communi- by any discriminatory practices, [and] I expect ties where multiple identity categories come to work in an environment where I’m going to into play, such as sex, gender, and sexual ori- be respected,” she said. “There [are] employment entation. laws and you have to have anti-discriminatory “In the queer community, the distinction and anti-harassment policies in your workplace. between what’s sexual harassment and what “The Ontario Human Rights Commission is other harassment is very difficult to define already has policies hammered out. So there’s a sometimes,” he said. “I think it’s important to really good starting ground, and you just need make it easier to report that, and not to lump to modify them for what [it means] to live in a sexual harassment in with everything else, but university [community] and what are the proceto make it easier to say, ‘I was harassed because dures that can be implemented,” she continued. of my sexual orientation and I consider that “Whether or not the policies have been develsexual harassment, so I want it treated as sexual oped, it is really a duty for managers to address harassment’.” discrimination and harassment when it hap-

Dec. 4, 2008

pens. But it’s much easier to be proactive [with a policy in place].” Holly Johnson, senior research associate and part-time professor with the Department of Criminology, cited a need for specific research into sexual harassment on the U of O campus. “We have not conducted a victimization survey on this campus, at least not one that covered [sexual harassment and violence],” she said. “I would think that what we need to do here is some more research about the prevalence and the [ways] in which people are affected by these types of things on this campus, and be honest about it. “But there’s a resistance among the senior administrators to portray any campus as having problems of violence,” she continued. “It’s understandable, but on the other hand … [we need to] come clean with the fact that young people are at the highest risk of any kind of violence anywhere.” Johnson also mentioned the potential effects of sexual harassment on an individual, particularly if the incident goes unreported. “The impacts emotionally and socially are combined: increased levels of fear, curtailment of activities, limiting one’s options in engagement in public life, diminution of what that actually means socially—if everyone’s telling you to just suck it up, that’s nothing,” she said. Where to go for help Stone stressed the importance of acknowledging and reporting incidents of sexual harassment to university officials. “The problem is that very few students tell anyone when something happens, and if they do they often don’t tell someone that can do something about it—they might tell a friend, but they won’t go to a university official that can actually do something. I would really like to encourage students to not hesitate to use the online reporting, to email, to call, and to assure them that it is confidential,” she said, gesturing to her padlocked filing cabinet. “I would like to encourage people to come see me if they have any concerns or questions at any time.” Stone can be reached at [email protected] and incidents can be reported anonymously online at web5.uottawa.ca/sex-har/eng/report-it.php. Students can also contact Protection Services at [email protected] or by telephone at 613562-5411 in the case of an emergency.

NEWS

8

Ottawatch Opposition parties form coalition, set sights on toppling Tories CANADA COULD POTENTIALLY have a new government and new prime minister by Dec. 8. Barely two months after the Oct. 14 federal election handed the Conservative government 143 seats in the House of Commons, re-electing them to a minority government, the Liberal Party and the New Democratic Party signed an agreement on Dec. 1 that the two parties would seek to form a coalition, with support from the Bloc Québécois, if the current government is defeated on a Dec. 8 non-confidence vote. There are unconfirmed reports, however, suggesting that Prime Minister Stephen Harper may prorogue parliament and thus stave off a confidence vote over the Nov. 27 economic update. If the House is deemed to have lost confidence in the government, there are only two courses of action to follow, according to Canadian constitutional scholar Peter Hogg in his seminal textbook, Constitutional Law

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in Canada. Either the government must resign, or the House must be dissolved to make way for an election. As Hogg explains, this decision is ultimately made by the governor general of Canada, currently Michaëlle Jean. As part of his mandate, Prime Minister Harper is empowered to offer advice to Jean on which decision to make. The governor general normally recommends an election, as it would grant the constitutional right for the next prime minister to govern. The governor general has only declined to dissolve parliament once in history. In the King-Byng Affair of 1926, Governor General Lord Byng declined Prime Minister Mackenzie King’s request to dissolve and instead handed the government to the opposition. This created what scholars describe as a “constitutional crisis”, since many Canadians feel they should be governed by the party that wins a plurality of seats in the House. A way around this, therefore, is to create a coalition that does represent a plurality of seats.

A Liberal-NDP coalition cabinet would be composed of primarily Liberal MPs, however NDP MPs would fill 25 per cent of the positions. Stéphane Dion—who the Liberals have chosen to keep as leader—indicated on Dec. 1 that he has advised the governor general that he has the confidence of the House to create a coalition government, should the current one fall. —Carl Meyer

News in brief York Federation of Students under fire for campaigning in Ottawa

CUSA embroiled in Shinerama drama

TORONTO (CUP) – WHILE STUDENTS AT Toronto’s York University campaigned for the end of a labour strike that has shut down classes, members of the York Federation of Students (YFS) executive spent time in Ottawa campaigning for a different cause. YFS President Hamid Osman confirmed that he and members of the executive were in Ottawa for one week during the Student Federation of the University of Ottawa’s (SFUO) referendum on membership with the Canadian Federation of Students (CFS), campaigning on behalf of the CFS. Osman said he has been doing everything he can to put an end to the strike at York; however, he did not attend a scheduled meeting between YFS and the York administration. Another meeting has been scheduled which Osman said he plans to attend. Many York students were unaware that the YFS executives were spending time in Ottawa until the information was leaked on Facebook. One member of the YFS executive was said to have campaigned alongside volunteers for the No campaign at the U of O. YFS executves allegedly didn’t identify themselves as York students until asked. Members of the No campaign were aware of the strike at York and were reportedly shocked and angered at seeing the YFS executives in Ottawa. —Scott McLean, The Excalibur

TORONTO (CUP) – The Carleton University Students’ Association (CUSA) recently pulled its support for the cystic fibrosis fundraiser Shinerama, claming that the disease “only affect[s] white people”. This announcement created a national media frenzy and CUSA has been trying to backpedal ever since. CUSA passed a motion nearly unanimously on Nov. 24 which read, in part: “Whereas cystic fibrosis has been recently revealed to only affect white people, and primarily men … be it resolved that: CUSA discontinue its support of this campaign.” Only two CUSA council members cast dissenting votes. Many people took offense, as the angry Facebook groups that have popped up suggest. CUSA held an emergency meeting on Dec. 1, in which the original motion was overturned, an official apology was made, and Carleton’s involvement with Shinerama was reinstated. Cathleen Morrison, CEO of the Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, said that there’s a silver lining to the debacle: the chance to tell people what cystic fibrosis really is. She explained that cystic fibrosis is the “most common fatal genetic disease in Canada,” and affects men and women equally. Most Canadians with cystic fibrosis do not live past their 30s. Morrison admits that it does “affect the Caucasian population primarily,”

Dec. 4, 2008

but stresses that this does not mean it only affects the white-skinned. She says that a “rainbow of people” from India, Pakistan, North Africa, South America, and other regions can be afflicted. —Joe Howell, Ontario Bureau Chief

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NEWS

9

Arts & Culture

Peter Henderson Arts & Culture Editor [email protected]

Dec. 4, 2008–Jan. 7, 2009

10

Dickens with a twist Actor John Huston brings A Christmas Carol to Ottawa by Peter Henderson Fulcrum Staff “IF I COULD work my will, every idiot who goes about with ‘Merry Christmas’ on his lips should be boiled with his own pudding, and buried with a stake of holly through his heart.” This delightful Christmas sentiment comes from the mouth of Ebenezer Scrooge, the protagonist of Charles Dickens’ timeless classic A Christmas Carol. John D. Huston is a Canadian actor who knows Scrooge’s character very well—he’s played him almost 400 times since he began his one-man version of A Christmas Carol in 1992. “I’m obsessed with this show,” Huston says. “I love doing it.” Born in Winnipeg, Huston has worked in Canada, the U.S., and Britain, performing solo shows—he has appeared in 13 different oneman productions—and as a member of larger casts. He became interested in theatre while he attended high school and decided to pursue a degree in the field after he graduated. “I had absolutely no idea what else I could do with my life,” he explains. “I still don’t.” He received his Master’s in theatre history with a specialization in 19th-century performance style from the University of Toronto in 1989. He worked various jobs in theatre and as an amateur actor, but his first one-man show confirmed his true calling. “I’d heard about fringe festivals, and I knew I wanted to try something out,” says Huston. “I had read a book called Three Men in a Boat many years before, and I thought, ‘You know, that’s a really funny book, and it’s all told in the first person. How hard could it possibly be to make an hour out of that?’” Huston performed his first one-man show, Three Men in a Boat, at the Manotick Fringe Festival in 1991. “It was a big hit,” he recalls. “I thought ‘Wow, I can do this!’ So the next year I did another book, and later that same year I decided I would do A Christmas Carol.” Dickens’ A Christmas Carol was first published in 1843. The story of Ebenezer Scrooge’s spiritual journey from a scheming moneylender to a generous philanthropist is one of the most popular tales in English literature. The book has been adapted for the theatre, film, radio, television, and even opera. Dickens himself gave many readings of A Christmas Carol during his lifetime. His readings relied on a special script he devised from the book that was tailored for listeners, not readers, and it is this abridged version that Huston began working with in 1992. “I knew that Dickens had done it as a solo piece, and I had his script,” explains Huston. “And I had a girlfriend at the time who would always say, ‘Oh, you look so much like Charles Dickens.’ It took me a month to learn it that first year.”

photo courtesy John Huston

John Huston uses facial expression, gestures, and vocal changes to bring the characters to life in his solo production of A Christmas Carol. Huston began performing A Christmas Carol with Dickens’ original script, but in the 16 years since that first performance he has modified and changed the script to suit his own needs. “Every year I re-read the book and I look for something that strikes me,” he explains. “The script changed quite radically the first few years. Dickens used to do this as well—he started reading the whole book, [and] then gradually pared it down. I started with his final version, and I’ve gradually put more things in. “I started to put back all the Dickens bits,” he continues. “The narratives, all the jokes, the descriptions of things. A movie can show you Scrooge’s house, but only Dickens can tell you that the house was so out of place in the yard in which it was located that one could scarcely help fancying it must have run there when it was quite a young house playing at hide and seek with other houses and forgotten the way out again. No camera can show you

that. What I give people that no movie or play can give them is these wonderful Dickensian passages.” Huston is performing in Ottawa three times this month, once at St. Bartholomew’s Anglican Church on Dec. 9 and twice at the National Arts Centre on Dec. 20 and 21. He is supported by Finest Kind, a local folk-music trio, who perform before the show and between each act. “I love finishing my tour in Ottawa,” says Huston. “I get to hear Finest Kind every night. I heard them on Vinyl Café years ago, and I’ve always wanted to have carollers in my show. When I heard them, I thought, ‘That’s the sound, that’s the kind of music I want’. That first Christmas, it was just so delightful. I got to hear them sing every night, it was just lovely.” The collaboration between Huston and Finest Kind continues to this day, and they even produced an album together, Feasts & Spirits,

in 2004. On the album Finest Kind performs a selection of Christmas carols, interspersed with selected excerpts of Huston’s show. “They didn’t want to do just another Christmas album,” Huston explains. “We did a CD, and it gets played all over the place this time of the year—[National Public Radio] in the States, even some radio station in Australia.” Huston also wants to produce a video recording of the show and upload it to YouTube. He loves performing the “terrific, timeless” story of A Christmas Carol, and he hopes to continue for as long as he can. “I’m going to hit 400 performances on Dec. 11, and I could do 400 more. I love this story, and I love doing it for people.” Huston’s A Christmas Carol is at St. Bartholomew’s Anglican Church (125 Mackay Ave.) on Dec. 9 and the NAC (53 Elgin St.) Dec. 20 and 21. For more information, visit dickensperformer.ca.

Let’s get baked! Gifting on the cheap Recipes to celebrate the holidays

chocolate that was set aside over top of the now chilled bark. Place bark back in fridge for another 10 minutes until it is completely solid. When the chocolate can be easily removed from the parchment paper, the treat is done. 12. When the bark is finished, it can be broken apart either by hand or with a sharp knife. The bark can be put in bags and given as a gift, placed in a bowl to treat your roommates, or stored in the fridge for whenever you get a chocolate craving. —Anna Rocoski

Chocolate bark This is a great recipe for the perfect chocolate holiday treat. Ingredients can include almonds, caramel corn, or even candy canes—it’s up to you! Makes one baking sheet of chocolate, and takes about 30 to 40 minutes. Ingredients for chocolate bark: 1½ cups chocolate (milk, white, or dark) ½ cup bulk food items (almonds, dried cranberries, caramel corn, etc.) What you need: Baking tray, spatula, small pot, smallto medium-sized bowl (large enough to fit over the pot without falling in) Directions: 1. Cover the baking tray in parchment paper. 2. Boil water in a small pot. 3. Fill a small- to medium-sized bowl with 1½ cups chocolate. 4. Place bowl with chocolate over the pot of boiling water in order to melt chocolate. 5. Stir chocolate in bowl with spatula to ensure chocolate does not burn. Remove bowl from heat once chocolate is almost melted. (The bowl will be wet on the bottom; wipe with a dry towel before continuing.) 6. Continue stirring chocolate until completely melted, taking care that it doesn’t boil. 7. Set a couple tablespoons of chocolate aside to use for decorating. 8. Gently pour chocolate onto parchment-covered baking tray into a roughly oval mound. 9. Place all bulk food items (candy canes, almonds, dried cranberries, caramel corn, or whatever else is desired) on the tray and spread the chocolate to the edge of the tray with a spatula. 10. Try to cover most of the ingredients with chocolate, or at least enough so that everything sticks together. 11. Place tray in the fridge. Wait 10 minutes, then pull it out and decorate the bark by drizzling the

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by Jaclyn Lytle and Peter Henderson Fulcrum Staff IT’S FINALLY DECEMBER, and that means Christmas shopping. But what’s a student to do when they’re at a loss for gifts ideas for the family and strapped for cash? Never fear! The Fulcrum’s guide to holiday giving on a student’s income is here to rescue you from your empty-wallet woes. People appreciate homemade, personal gifts much more than they appreciate a fancy, expensive gadget, and this guide should help you find the right gift without breaking the bank. The easiest way to approach cheap and unique gifting is to get crafty. Use your imagination and tap into your artistic side. If you can draw or paint, a portrait of the family (or something more impressionistic) will impress your parents and outshine anything those well-to-do post-grad siblings can come up with. For a younger brother or sister, grab a plain T-shirt or hat, find some iron-on paper at any craft or business supply store, and for under $10 you can contribute a oneof-a-kind piece to his or her wardrobe. Try Giant Tiger (98 George St.)

Banana loaf This is a traditional banana loaf that will provide a snack for eight people. It takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 60 minutes to bake. ½ cup of melted butter or margarine 1 egg 3 tablespoons of milk 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract 1 cup of sugar 1½ cups of flour 1 teaspoon of baking soda 1 teaspoon of baking powder ¼ teaspoon of salt 1½ cups of mashed bananas (about four bananas; try peeling them and microwaving them in a bowl to get them good and mushy)

Bookstore in the Xpress “Best of Ottawa 2008” poll, so it’s sure to have something for almost everyone on your list. These places often have new or good-as-new books for sale that are cheaper than they are at the big chains like Chapters or online retailers like Amazon. Always remember to jot the date and a little note in the front of whatever books you buy—it’s better if the book comes with a personal inscription. Finally, a great idea for the socially conscious is donating to a charity in lieu of buying a gift. Oxfam Canada is just one of many charities that allow you to give money to help underdeveloped nations in someone else’s name. Check oxfamunwrapped.com for information on how you can buy goats, water, and even medicine for those in need. Any donation is accepted, so don’t think you need to give more than you can afford—any and all help is useful. Christmas shopping on a student budget isn’t easy, but it can be done. Seek out bargains, improvise, and always try to add that personal touch. Giving everyone an expensive gift is great, but it’s important to put time and thought into your choices. Remember, it’s always the thought that counts.

The Fulcrum returns from the holidays...

Directions: 1. Mix all dry ingredients together in a mixing bowl. 2. Pour in wet ingredients, one after the other. 3. Add bananas and mix vigorously. 4. Once batter is thoroughly mixed (only small chunks), pour it into a greased bread pan and bake for 60 minutes. You’ll know its ready when you can insert and draw a clean toothpick out of the middle. This scrumptious banana loaf is perfect for a holiday snack, and you can make it within the time it takes to watch two holiday specials. —Jaclyn Lytle

for plain clothing and Grand & Toy in the Rideau Centre (50 Rideau St.) for iron-on paper. If you can spare the time, for the price of two knitting needles and a ball of yarn or two, you can help friends or family bundle up when the temperature drops with a toque and matching scarf or gloves. Check out knittingpatterncentral.com for instructions and all the latest cuttingedge fashions that you can make in your spare time. Soaps are a well-received holiday gift, but store-bought collections are often very expensive. Making a whole basket’s worth of scented soap is a tall order, but you can easily complement a smaller collection of store-bought soaps with your own authentic, homemade bath bombs and soaps. It’s actually easier than it sounds. Teachsoap.com is a good starting point for all things homemade and soap-related. If you want to give the gift of arts and crafts but are hopeless with anything more complicated than a glue gun, try Ladyfest Ottawa’s “Not Your Grandma’s Craft Sale”, which takes place Dec. 6 at the Jack Purcell Community Centre (320 Elgin St.) from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Artists from Ottawa and the surrounding area, including Kingston and Montreal, will be showing off their wares, and a portion of the $2 admission fee goes towards the Lyallen Hayes Memorial Fund, a local charity that helps women whose lives have been affected by violence. There will be custom clothing, handmade jewelry, homemade foodstuffs, and all sorts of unique items. No craft lovers in your family? Don’t worry, books are a reliable present, and it’s easy to find one on almost every topic at places like All Books (327 Rideau St.) or Argosy Books (209 Dalhousie St.). Octopus Books (116 Third St.) won Best

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www.thefulcrum.ca Jan. 8, 2009 Dec. 4, 2008

ARTS

11

YOU

ARE

WHAT YOU

EAT

by Jessica Carter Fulcrum Contributor

page 12 | the fulcrum

illustration by Alex Martin

The ethical eating mov IN 2007, THE New Oxford American Dictionary’s word of the year was ‘locavore’. If you’ve never heard of it, a locavore is not a newly discovered species of dinosaur, nor is it the latest gamer slang. Actually, a locavore is someone who chooses to eat food that is grown locally. The principle behind this concept is that locally produced food is a healthier choice for both the consumer and the environment. Joining proponents of causes such as organic food production, fair-trade food agreements, and vegetarianism, the locavore is the most recently recognized addition to the variety of ways in which our tastebuds play a role in economic, social, and environmental issues. These food movements have collectively been labelled by the population as ethical eating, eating with a conscience, and eating well, but regardless of the title, each is responding to a dissatisfaction with the processes involved in the production of food. What do ethics have to do with food? FoodTrust is an organization that offers food education services to the public. FoodTrust CEO Alan Miller said in a 2007 interview with CBC, “[Companies] don’t go out and market sustainable agriculture as a single dimension. It’s one aspect in a broader spectrum of high-quality and innovative produce backed by environmental standards. True sustainability only works when you combine sound environmental practices, economic viability, and social responsibility.” According to a 2007 study done by Organic Agriculture Center of Canada, sustainable agriculture sales reached over $1 billion in Canada. Dave Smith is the owner and manager of Ashton Glen Farm. Located just west of Ottawa in Carleton Place, the farm produces organic, environmentally sustainable Angus beef for local consumers. For Smith, this approach to farming offers an ethical means of participating in the agriculture industry for a range of reasons. “Firstly, the food produced is beneficial to the consumer. Food should be good for you and nourish your body, not destroy it,” Smith said. “Secondly, you leave the environment in a state that is better than the way you found it, and finally, we have an obligation to ensure that each animal’s life is the best it can be.” Sustainable food encompasses not only the environmental aspects of eating, but also the economics behind the food industry and the community involved in it. Research associate Brian Halweil works for Worldwatch, an institute that provides analysis of critical global issues in order to promote solutions. In his 2002 book, Home Grown: The Case for Local Food in a Global Market, Halweil explains that because of the globalization of food supply, on average “fruits and vegetables are travelling between 2,500 and 4,000 kilometres from farm to market, an increase of roughly 20 per cent in the last two decades”. Not only does the travel time reduce the quality of the food, but Halweil argues that the huge quantities of fuel used for transportation contribute to global

warming. The centrality of food in so many areas of like daily nutrition and celebrations—is see of the value of the ethical eating movement. twood, a third year in the Canadian Studies p the University of Ottawa, has been a vegetaria was 10 years old and prefers to eat locally grow food when possible. Attwood’s decision is n about mistreatment of animals during the foo tion process, but also the broader health and benefits of supporting local, sustainably produ “By making these choices, there are environm efits, and the standard and quality of the food is ter,” she said. “I would rather enjoy seasonal it’s there, than get something that tastes awful been in a truck for days or weeks before I buy i It is for reasons such as these that more looking to find out more about the ethical im of what they choose to eat. Smith says that number of people are becoming interested in l duced, organic foods like his beef. “We have more demand for our product th reasonably fill,” he said. “The people that choo come from all walks of life and include both s students.”

Problems with producing ethical foo

Despite the growing popularity of ethically foods among people of all ages, the economic producers wanting to offer those products can Even with growing demand, Ashton Glen Fa not making profits. “It is more expensive to produce beef that and grass-fed. The biggest issue is the cost of la said. “We will eventually find a price for ou where we cover our costs. As in any busines sumers will decide if there is value at that pric While it’s true that consumers will decide i uct is worth the price, the higher prices can choice more difficult for some. Attwood has her limited budget can sometimes become st her dietary choices, particularly when choosi food. Organic food is made without pesticide cial fertilizers and is free from food additives. “Organic food is always much more expen fer to buy it when I can, but the price can hol sometimes,” she said. A 2006 study by independent research body Reports found that on average, organic foods 100 per cent more than comparable non-orga Another key place in the community involv viding customers with ethical food sources is Berry. Located within walking distance of the 206 Main St., the store provides customers wit organic fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. rymple, a manager at The Wheat Berry since J nizes that the prices of organic food can some the number of people able to make these cho their food. Dalrymple blames part of the economic faced by small-scale producers and suppliers foods on the ways that globalization has pu businesses to the margins of the economy. “Under the Canadian government, it doesn’

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c challenge s of ethical shed small

’t seem like

there’s as many rights for small-scale farmers and smallscale businesses,” he said. Indeed, Dalrymple claims that one of the main challenges faced by The Wheat Berry is the business’s small size. “One of the problems is that as the movement becomes more popular, larger organizations like Loblaws start getting involved too, selling organic foods and things like that,” he said. “But that also puts the smaller places like us out of business because we just can’t compete.” Dalrymple says that the problem with pushing smaller farms and businesses out of the market is that larger agricultural systems tend to have a more detrimental impact on the environment and local economy. “The global economy supports large-scale farming, but it’s more sustainable when it’s done at a small, local level,” he explained. Smith indicated that the current, large-scale approach favoured by the global economy came about in the last 50 years, as agricultural production expanded. “The goals were ... to increase the amount of food produced and at the same time make it cheaper. The huge issue is that it substantially altered the product, the environment, and the treatment of animals as units of production. We now have cheap beef and any other factory farmed food that makes you and the planet sick. It is totally absurd.” Raising awareness about ethical eating choices Smith believes that as people become more educated about where their food comes from, production processes and consumer choices will start to change. Attwood also agrees that the issue is about increasing awareness. “People just don’t know that they’ve got these choices, so they can’t make an informed decision ... Societies’ attitudes towards food affect other people’s livelihoods and this can only change with education,” she said. “I’m not sure how many people even know that there is a decision to be made about the food they’re eating.” The Canadian Organic Growers (COG) is just one of the many organizations attempting to educate the public on ethical eating. Whether providing information through their website cog.ca or their quarterly publication The Canadian Organic Journal, COG is always trying to spread the organic word. Lynda Hall, the project coordinator for Growing Up Organic—a pilot project set up by COG in 2007—works in Ottawa, educating both young and old on the benefits of ethical eating. “We have a lot of projects right now for school-aged kids and youth, including things such as farm camp. We also are encouraging as well as helping schools to grow food gardens so that we can use them as teaching tools,” she said. “We also hold public information nights on certain topics in [ethical eating].” Ignorance may be bliss, but in terms of ethical eating, P.E.I. farmer Barry Cudmore believes we are only hurting ourselves. “We can no longer eat for today and forget about tomorrow,” he said. “People who take the food purchasing system for granted do so at their own peril. They rely on everyone without knowing them. That’s what’s neat about sustainable systems, because it gets people to look at having the relationships with the people that produce them [food products].”

Places to buy organic food For a comprehensive guide to eating locally in Ottawa, visit spcottawa.on.ca

The Wheat Berry 206 Main St. Herb and Spice Shop 375 Bank St. and 1310 Wellington Ave. Market Organics 126 York St. The Sandy Hill People Food Co-op 317 Wilbrod St.

Ottawa Organic Farmers’ Market Every Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. 501 Smyth Rd.

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Ashton Glen Farms www.ashtonglenfarms.ca

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Holiday movie guide

HE BEST WAY to get into the holiday mood is with movies that explore the themes of this festive season: love, generosity, and good humour. Here are some of the best films to keep your spirits up after long, stressful days dodging other harried holiday shoppers at the mall. They all explore the themes of the holidays in different ways, but each one will fill you with Christmas cheer. National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation

Christmas is supposed to be a time of joy, peace, and harmony that brings family and friends together. In reality, it’s more about dealing with annoying family members, nasty neighbours, and the madness of Christmas shopping. The harsh realities of Christmastime are explored in National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, which takes a hilarious look at the stressful side of Christmas. Chevy Chase is never better than as the beleaguered head of the Griswold household, and his half-crazed attempts to pull off the perfect Christmas at any cost are a comedic gift that keeps on giving, year after year. While other movies try to delude you into thinking that Christmas is a time of endless joy and celebration, Christmas Vacation shows you the real chaos of Christmas. —Hisham Kelati The Muppet Christmas Carol Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol is the most popular Christmas story not from the Middle East, and it gets a hilarious and heart-warming update in The Muppet Christmas Carol. Michael Caine plays what is perhaps the best version of Ebenezer Scrooge ever put on film, which is all the more impressive considering he plays opposite a puppet. Although it’s not entirely true to the source material, this film nevertheless captures the spirit of Dickens’ work and conveys the true feelings behind all the pomp and production of the holidays: generosity and love. The supporting cast of Muppets provides a comic counterpoint to the sometimes sombre story— Dickens himself would surely have approved. —Peter Henderson How the Grinch Stole Christmas Theodore “Dr.” Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas has been turned into two holiday movies, a 1966 animated version and the 2000 feature-length live-action version. Both tell the story of the Grinch, a bitter, cave-dwelling creature with a heart “two sizes too small”. He lives above and loathes deeply the town of

Whoville, which is home to the warm-hearted Who people who love to “spread the holiday cheer loud enough for all to hear”. Though the Grinch originally schemes to steal Christmas away from the Whos, his eventual redemption makes both films a treat for the whole family. The animated version, narrated by Boris Karloff, is a well-established holiday classic, but the live-action re-make has its moments, mostly due to the funny and touching work of Jim Carrey as the Grinch. Both are great choices for Christmas Eve, especially while enjoying a big mug of eggnog. —Camila Juarez Die Hard Die Hard has everything a Christmas movie should have—guns, explosions, humour, and terrorists. The movie stars Bruce Willis as New York cop John McClane, who is visiting his kids and estranged wife for Christmas. Terrorists take over his wife’s Christmas party, and it’s up to McClane to save the day. Die Hard is a perfect break from sappy Christmas movies— it celebrates holiday cheer with violence and wise-cracks, while still finding time to have tender moments that evoke the sentimentality of the season. Take a break from the tear-jerkers and throw on some bad-ass yuletide cheer. —Daniel Harris Love Actually The holiday season is a time for sentimentality and love, and anyone who says different has no heart. Love Actually is a movie that embraces the warm, fuzzy feeling we all get in late December, without a hint of irony or cynicism. This romantic comedy tells a series of intertwining stories that span the holiday season and come to a head on one magical Christmas Eve. The stellar cast includes Alan Rickman, Hugh Grant, Laura Linney, Bill Nighy, and the incomparable Emma Thompson. Love Actually is a blend of comedy and romance that works perfectly during the holidays, just like the combination of hot chocolate and a shot of crème liqueur. Throw away your holiday stress and embrace the schmaltz and emotion of Love, Actually—this movie is pure escapism. —Peter Henderson

HAPPY HOLIDAYS! from all of us at MAGPIE JEWELLERY Give Peace and Love this holiday season with the

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Dec. 4, 2008

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You’ll never eat brunch in this town again

Some Christmas wishes

Peter Henderson Arts & Culture Editor DEAR SANTA, I know it’s been a while since I wrote to you. My feelings were very hurt when I didn’t get Scarlett Johansson under my tree last year. In retrospect, I have to give you points for trying, and I’ll admit that your ongoing trial for kidnapping is mostly my fault. However, this year I’ve got some wishes, and I figured I’d get them in before the Christmas Eve rush you hate so much.

Santa, I don’t know if you can watch televi- self-fellatio is ruining his music. The quality of sion up at the North Pole, but I definitely do, and his albums has been in steady decline since Late it’s awful. I’d like you to magically make televi- Registration in 2005, and I’d love to see him ditch sion writers stop ruining their shows—no more that annoying vocoder sound effect he puts on ghosts on Grey’s Anatomy, no more nonsensical the vocals of every new song and actually return plot twists on Lost, and no more resurrections to the rap that he excels at. While we’re talking music, Santa, I’d love to on Heroes. And please, please make network see the Black Eyed Peas never release an album executives take Scrubs off the air before more again, but I don’t know No more ghosts on Grey’s terrible new seasons Christmas magAnatomy, no more nonsensical ific your is powerful enough erase my fond memories of the old ones. plot twists on Lost, and no more to break the pact they made with Satan. If the When 24 returns to resurrections on Heroes. the air, I’d like to see Devil didn’t write “My it become less like the Humps”, I don’t know who did. neo-conservative’s wet dream it became in seasons five and six. Jack Only a few more things, Santa, and I’ll be a Bauer doesn’t need to torture someone every happy Henderson. This year, I want arts funding five seconds for the show to be interesting, and for festivals, galleries, galas—anything you can it would be nice if the writers recognized that. think of. Our leaders haven’t been very forthAnother thing I’d like is for Kanye West to learn coming, at neither the municipal nor federal some humility. I know he thinks he’s “the voice of levels, so we definitely need some help from a this generation, of this decade”, but I think all that supernatural being like you. I know even you

are confused by the Canadian political machinations going on, but surely you can send some elves to lobby members of Parliament regardless of who the Prime Minister is. Lastly, Santa, I’d like Heath Ledger to win the Oscar for Best Actor. Yes, everybody and their brother are calling for this, but I think it’s important. He was a rare talent, a brilliant method actor who transcended his good looks by constantly experimenting and pushing the envelope of what Hollywood acting could be. Lost in all the hubbub about his death and the success of The Dark Knight is the true genius of his performance—in the decades to come, I honestly believe the Joker will stand as the best villain ever seen on film. So that’s it Santa, just a few requests this year. I’m still single, but Scarlett got married—I know your powers are great, but even you couldn’t give me the body of Ryan Reynolds. So this year, I’m asking for Natalie Portman. [email protected] 613-252-2311

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0949WBB08

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Dec. 4, 2008

ARTS

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Sports

David McClelland Sports Editor [email protected] Dec. 4, 2008–Jan. 7, 2009

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The Cavalry Awards The Fulcrum names the best athletes of the semester

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T’S THAT TIME of the year again: the semester is over, and the Fulcrum is handing out the hardware for the best athletes of the season so far in the semi-annual Cavalry Awards.

Top male athlete: Davie Mason, men’s football

Top female athlete: Jess Charron, women’s soccer

Rookie of the semester: Fannie Desforges, women’s hockey

Top varsity team: Men’s basketball

Top competitive club: Women’s fastball

Even though he was injured for part of the Gee-Gees men’s football season, missing two regular season games and one playoff game, when he’s healthy, third-year running back Davie Mason is a force to be reckoned with. Despite only appearing in six games during the regular season, he still managed to finish with the fourth-highest total rushing yards in Canadian Interuniversity Sports (CIS) with 896, averaged 149 yards per game and 7.28 yards per carry. Though he only played in two postseason games, Mason notably broke the CIS record for rushing yards in a single playoff game, when he managed 327 yards in the Ontario University Athletics (OUA) semi-final on Oct. 25 against the Guelph Gryphons.

It’s a rare team that can succeed without a good goalkeeper. A strong keeper can anchor an already strong defence and impart confidence on the team as a whole. Second-year goalkeeper Jess Charron protected the net for the Gee-Gees women’s soccer team throughout the 2008 season, and had an incredible impact on the eventual OUA silver medalists, despite not playing with the team since the 2006 season. Charron collected eight wins (including five shutouts) during the regular season, and led the Gee-Gees to three post-season victories. Finishing with just eight goals conceded for a goals-against average of 0.57, Charron was a brick wall in net and played a major part in the Gee-Gees’ successes this year.

First-year forward Fannie Desforges has quickly made a name for herself on the ice with the University of Ottawa women’s hockey team this season. With three goals and two assists in eight games so far in her first year with the Gee-Gees, Desforges has shown amazing potential and has proved herself to be an invaluable recruit for the team. She stands out both on the scoreboard and in her defensive play, showing toughness in blocking shots, while also pulling off a hat trick in her second career university game, leading her team to a 6-2 victory over the Concordia Stingers on Oct. 18. Though Desforges’s numbers may not be as spectacular as some other GeeGees rookies, her poise and ability to produce points against veteran players makes her truly shine.

Although the men’s basketball team lost their first game of the semester 7353 to the Western Mustangs, the squad quickly rebounded and embarked on a seven-game winning streak, leaving them tied for first in the OUA East with the Carleton Ravens—who also hold a 7-1 record—going into the mid-season break. The Gee-Gees have been excellent on the court so far this season, with veteran centre Dax Dessereault and fourth-year guard Josh GibsonBascombe being supported by strong performances from younger players like rookie guard Warren Ward and second-year guard Jacob Gibson-Bascombe. Though the Gee-Gees have yet to face the perennially number-one Ravens, it’s already looking clear that this is one of the strongest men’s basketball teams the U of O has fielded in the last 10 years.

The Gee-Gees women’s fastball team had another outstanding season in 2008, improving on their bronze medal finish in the Ontario Intercollegiate Women’s Fastball Association (OIWFA) 2007 championships with a silver medal finish this year. After collecting a 14-4 record during the regular season, the Gee-Gees went on to take the playoffs by storm. Ottawa swept past the competition in the round-robin portion of the OIWFA championships, defeating the Laurier Golden Hawks, Queen’s Golden Gaels, and Windsor Lancers to finish first in their pool and advance to the semi-finals. After a 6-1 win against the McMaster Marauders in that game, the Gee-Gees finally fell in the final, losing 5-1 to the Western Mustangs—an unfortunate cap to an otherwise excellent season.

Runners up: Dax Dessereault (men’s basketball), Josh Sacobie (men’s football) —David McClelland

Runners up: Emilie Morasse (women’s basketball), Karine Gagnon (women’s volleyball) —Anna Rocoski

Runners up: Warren Ward (men’s basketball), Matthieu Methot (men’s hockey) —Megan O’Meara

Runners up: Women’s soccer, women’s volleyball —David McClelland

Runners up: Ultimate team, rowing team —David McClelland

Top coach: Andy Sparks, women’s basketball

Biggest surprise: Sports Services overhauls their website

He may not have the most impressive record of all Gee-Gees head coaches, with the women’s basketball team just one game over .500 at the holiday break, but this record represents a dramatic turnaround for the team. Sparks joined the women’s basketball team as head coach after the disastrous 3-19 2007–08 season, replacing then-head coach Carlos Brown who was let go by Sports Services. Sparks has done an incredible job turning the team around, instilling the team with confidence and enforcing sharper play on both offence and defence. With the Gee-Gees currently holding on to fourth place in the OUA east with a 5-4 record, it’s entirely possible the team may return to the playoffs this year under Sparks’ leadership.

Regular visitors to geegees.ca might have been surprised on Nov. 30 when they found that Sports Services’ website had been totally overhauled. The old site was replaced by a colourful new version, which is both more intuitively laid out and easier on the eyes. With integrated highlights, player pictures, and a more aesthetically pleasing layout, the new website will certainly improve the image of the Gee-Gees on the national scale. The former Sports Services’ site was outdated and clunky-looking, leading the Fulcrum to call for a redesign last year. The late-November redesign came out of nowhere but was an extremely pleasant surprise.

Runners up: Steve Johnson (women’s soccer), Dave DeAveiro (men’s basketball) —David McClelland

Runners up: Men’s football team reaching the Yates Cup, women’s basketball on a four-game winning streak —David McClelland

Gees send ‘em back to Kingston Women’s volleyball topples Queen’s and RMC by David McClelland Fulcrum Staff

photo by Alex Martin

Setter Tess Edwards sets up a spike for middle Joanie Beauregard-Veillette.

IT WAS A triumphant homestand for the GeeGees women’s volleyball team as they defeated both the Queen’s Golden Gaels and RMC Paladins with ease Nov. 28–29, winning 3-1 and 3-0, respectively. The Gaels entered the game against the Gees with a 5-4 record, sitting in third place in the Ontario University Athletics east division, one game back of Ottawa. However, the Gee-Gees were able to solidify their control of second place with a decisive victory. Fifth-year leftside hitter Karine Gagnon played a crucial role in the victory, delivering 10 kills and 12 digs to power the Gees to a 25-19, 25-21, 21-25, 25-21 victory in the match. The next day, the the Garnet and Grey faced the winless Paladins. It was a chance for several of the less-experienced Gees to start a game and develop their skills. Gagnon, along with fellow starter and third-year setter Tess Edwards, did not play against RMC.

“Some younger kids got a chance to play, and that was solid,” said Gee-Gees head coach Lionel Woods. “It was nice to see Sofia [Sturova], our young setter, get a chance to play a whole match. We just [got] some young kids in a real game instead of a scrimmage—they’ve played a bit in the early season, but this is certainly better for them and it’s starting to show.” Although the youthful version of the GeeGees struggled and occasionally fell behind RMC, in each set the Garnet and Grey were able to pull out a victory. Sturova was a standout for the Gees, registering five kills and six digs in her first full game as a university athlete. Ottawa won the match 25-20, 25-19, 25-23. Second-year libero Joanna Fabris said that the lack of pressure in the match sometimes lulled the Gees into a false sense of security, and that communication was the key to snapping out of temporary funks. “I think coming together in the circle after every point [is important],” said Fabris. “Honestly, just talking to each other and challenging each other, that’s been our big [ability].” With these wins, the Gee-Gees improve their record to 8-3 and remain in second place in the OUA East division.

The Ottawa snow scene Which slopes to hit this winter by Jaclyn Lytle Fulcrum Staff AS WE APPROACH the first official day of winter on Dec. 21, temperature and snow alike are falling, leaving Ottawa residents standing in ankle-deep slush. You could scowl at the amassing flakes until they disappear (probably sometime around April), or you can take advantage of the winter weather and give yourself a well-deserved study break on the slopes. First things first: whether you’re planning on spending your time at one of the several ski hills in the Ottawa region, or just hoping to have a sled race or snowball war, you’re going to need to equip yourself. Suiting up for the winter season usually re-

quires begging the parents for some cash, but if they’re not feeling so generous this time around, try checking out some pre-season sales. The peak time to hit up sports equipment stores is before the holiday season; they’re stocked full with the latest new and used goods for skiers and snowboarders, and they’re usually dirt cheap by Boxing Day. Used equipment stores like Play It Again Sports (1701 Bank St.) are also a great way to go, as this is the time of year people are looking to trade in old equipment. Your odds of finding used equipment in good condition are much higher just before the holidays. At the same time, there are plenty of hills for skiing and snowboarding within an hour of Ottawa that offer great deals for students. A weekend day pass costs $28 at Vorlage, $30 at Camp Fortune, $32 at Mont Cascades, $37 at Mont Ste. Marie, $43 at Calabogie Peaks, and, for those looking for the best hill in the region, a whopping $67.75 at Mont Trem-

blant. If you can’t seem to find an entire day to spend on the slopes, all hills offer half-day passes at a lower price. Mont Cascades, Camp Fortune, and Vorlage all have night skiing that runs 4–10 p.m. which costs around $20. For students that don’t have their own transportation, Mont Ste. Marie offers a shuttle bus service that stops at several locations in Ottawa and Gatineau, with more details available on the hill’s website. Many of the hills offer their own special deals. In particular, Mont Ste. Marie offers a shuttle and fullday pass deal for $55, Camp Fortune is currently offering a booklet of six full-day passes for the price of five, and Calabogie Peaks offers a $22 deal to college and university students on Fridays, as well as half-price passes on Mondays. ‘Tis the season to be jolly, so drop the books after those exams and hit the hills and take advantage of the snow.

photo by Ryan Pilarczyk

Racing down icy hills at high speeds can be one of the best parts of winter.

Sudoku answers from p. 22

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Dec. 4, 2008

SPORTS

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with a 4-3 overtime exhibition win against the visiting Syracuse Orange in their last game of 2008. Gee-Gees third-year centre Kayla Hottot returned to the line-up after recovering from illness and scored twice for Ottawa. Ottawa heads into the winter break with a 4-3-1 record and is in second place in the Quebec Student Sports Federation, and will resume play on Jan. 10 when they host the Concordia Stingers at 2 p.m. at the Sports Complex. Tickets are $4 for students. —Andrew Hawley

the Gees, but ultimately fell to the Ottawa squad 79-71. The Garnet and Grey established a 41-36 lead by halftime, a margin they were able to maintain throughout the second half. Fifth-year centre Dax Dessereault was Ottawa’s top performer with 27 points, while Gibson-Bascombe finished with 26 and was a perfect five-for-five from the free-throw line. The Gee-Gees will resume their season on Jan. 9 at 8 p.m. when they host the Ryerson Rams. —David McClelland A split for women’s basketball

Around the horn Depleted women’s hockey team falls to McGill THE BEST TEAM in Canadian university women’s hockey took advantage of an injured Gee-Gees squad on Nov. 29 when the Canadian Interuniversity Sports number-oneranked McGill Martlets thumped Ottawa 9-0. Four Gee-Gee veterans, including team captain Danika Smith, were not in the lineup due to sickness or injury, and leading scorer Joelle Charlebois left the game with an injury. The undefeated McGill team outshot Ottawa 17-10 in the first period

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and converted on their lone power play to build a 3-0 lead. In the second period, the Martlets outshot the Gees 16-7 and added two more goals to their lead. In the third, McGill added insult to the Gees’ injuries by potting four more goals. Gee-Gees head coach Shelley Coolidge commended goaltender Jessika Audet for her 39 saves throughout the game, and did not hold her responsible for the loss. “McGill beat us to a lot of pucks and just capitalized on their second and third chances,” Coolidge conceded. On Nov. 30, the Gees rebounded

Dec. 4, 2008

Men’s basketball still tied with Ravens at the break THE GEE-GEES MEN’S basketball team added two road wins to their record Nov. 28–29, downing the Waterloo Warriors and Laurier Golden Hawks to keep pace with the Carleton Ravens. The race for first place in the Ontario University Athletics east division is red-hot as both the GeeGees and Ravens now hold 7-1 records going into the holiday break. Ottawa dominated Waterloo 8157 on Nov. 28, led by rookie forward Warren Ward with 18 points and fourth-year guard Josh GibsonBascombe with 17 points. The GeeGees held an 11-point lead at the half and never looked back as they kept the Warriors well at bay. The next day, the Golden Hawks were able to get a little closer to

AFTER POSTING A win and a loss the weekend of Nov. 28–29, the Gee-Gees women’s basketball team will end the first half of the season with a winning record for the first time since the 2004–05 season. On Nov. 28, the Gee-Gees handed the Waterloo Warriors a 71-60 defeat in Waterloo. The Gee-Gees dominated the Warriors throughout the game, while second-year post Hannah Sunley-Paisley had a field day to lead both teams with 20 points. The next day proved to be tougher for Ottawa when they took on the Laurier Golden Hawks. Despite collecting a 25-20 lead by halftime, Ottawa was unable to hold on in the second half and slipped behind the Hawks, eventually dropping the game 55-41. Second-year Gee-

Gees guard Emilie Morasse led both teams with 14 points in the game. Ottawa will return to the court on Jan. 9, when they host the Ryerson Rams at 6 p.m. at Montpetit Hall. —David McClelland Swimming team snaps records THE UNIVERSITY OF Ottawa swimming team is having a recordbreaking season. The team competed in the University Challenge Cup in Toronto on Nov. 27, and finished with 170.5 points, good for fifth place. The Cup brings together the top eight varsity swim teams in Canada. In the 4x50-metre freestyle relay, an Ottawa team consisting of Adam Tudor, Hans Fracke, Sean Dawson, and Bernard Joosten broke the team record for the event. A few days later, on Nov. 30, the team broke another Ottawa record as the Gee-Gees qualified five male swimmers to the Canadian Interuniversity Sports (CIS) championships, breaking the team’s previous record of three. Joosten qualified for the Feb. 19–21 CIS championships after meeting the national standard in the 50-metre breast stroke event. Chris Reith also managed to qualify in the 1,500-metre freestyle. Fracke, Irvine, and Peter Suen will also be representing the men’s side, while Zoe Kamenz will be the lone female representative for the Gee-Gees. —David McClelland

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Scoring the perfect gift What to get for your favourite sports fan by Anna Rocoski Fulcrum Staff IT CAN SOMETIMES be tough knowing what presents to buy friends and loved ones for the holidays, especially when you’re a student on a budget. However, finding the perfect gift gets a bit easier when shopping for sports fanatics. There are lots of inexpensive gifts you can pick up for that person in your life who wears an unwashed hockey jersey every Saturday night. For the avid reader, visit a local bookstore online or in person and browse the sports section. Look through biographies, team histories, guides to sports arenas, and even take a look at the magazine section. Mags and Fags at 254 Elgin St. has a large selection of magazines sure to please any sports fan. There are tons of books written about sports. Just remember not to mix up the recipient’s fa-

vourite team. A great book for baseball fans is The Complete Armchair Book of Baseball by John Thorne, which provides an in-depth look at the sport, including selections written by many former players. For an inspirational sports story, take a look at a true story about a female basketball team called In These Girls, Hope is a Muscle by Madeleine Blais. Another book that will never get old for a hockey fan is The Hockey Sweater by Rock Carrier; it is a children’s book that any hockey fan can appreciate. One final book to look for is Running for My Life by Ray Zahab, a book about one man’s experience growing up in Ottawa and becoming a top adventure racer. Prices of all these books vary somewhat depending on where you look, so shop around for the best deals. What do you buy the golfer cooped up inside until better weather approaches? Take a look at golftown.com for assorted accessories; a package of 15 golf balls—depending on the brand—can go for $15. A golfer’s most prized items are their clubs so why not purchase some nice golf club protectors to protect the golfer’s pride and joy? They sell for $20 and up at Golf Town.

Of course, hockey is one of the most popular sports in the nation. But Senators tickets can be way too expensive for many people on a budget, so consider the Ottawa 67’s instead. The 67’s play in the Ontario Hockey League, and two adult tickets to a game at the Civic Centre cost $30. Also consider the Gatineau Olympiques, who play just across the river at 125 rue de Carillon in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League. Tickets are the same price as the 67s, and the hockey is just as exciting. Another good idea for hockey fans is a knit hat with the lucky recipients’s favourite team’s logo emblazoned proudly on the front. These are available at Sports Express in the Rideau Centre, and are also available online at shop.nhl.com. Sometimes even the simplest gifts prevail. Consider buying a football, baseball or basketball to remind the sports fanatic why he or she loves the sport in the first place. Just make sure that you promise to go out and use it with them. Making memories can be as important as the gift itself, so don’t be afraid to think a bit outside of the box.

If you are stumped and really don’t know what to do, another idea is to organize a sports night in, so to speak. Invite some friends around for a big game over the holidays and provide drinks and snacks—Hockey Night in Canada anyone? It may not be something you can wrap up with a bow, but it will certainly be appreciated. ‘Tis the season to barge through those shopping centres and find the perfect gift. The thought is what matters most, so make sure you let the sports fan in your life know they’re appreciated.

Yoga a cure for exam stress by Megan O’Meara Fulcrum Staff

photo illustration by Jaclyn Lytle

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ARE EXAMS STRESSING you out? You might want to try yoga. Yoga originated in India as an ancient form of meditation and exercise and is now practised in many countries by people of all ethnicities. The physical practice of yoga involves holding a variety of poses that stretch the body while simultaneously focusing on breathing to calm the mind and spirit. Contrary to popular belief, you do not need to be a contortionist to do yoga—many of the poses are simple or have variations that allow for minimal strain on the body while still offering the same stress-relieving benefits. For those contemplating giving yoga a try, there are a wide variety of weekly yoga classes offered on campus at little or no cost to students. Traditional yoga is beginning to be offered by a few organizations on campus, while Sports Services offers this form of yoga as well as ‘yoga fit’ and ‘mindful yoga’. Traditional yoga—involving holding each pose and stretching—is a light form of exercise used as a method of meditation. While it does strengthen the body, its focus is mostly on flexibility and calming the mind. Yoga fit is a variation on yoga that shifts the focus towards strength training as it involves more movement within and between poses, cre-

ating a more intense workout while still relieving stress. Mindful yoga is almost the opposite of yoga fit, as its goal is to exercise the mind more than traditional yoga classes might. It concentrates on the promotion of self-acceptance and awareness through meditation. Sports Services has many classes available to students at both the Sports Complex and Montpetit Hall, including some free classes. Yoga fit classes are free for all students and are held about four times a month. The schedule is updated monthly and can be found online or at the Sports Services desks in the Sports Complex and Montpetit Hall. The downside to these classes is that since they are first-come, first-serve, there are often long lines to get in and many who line up don’t make it in. There may be more added in the future due to high demand, according to Corinne Nehm, who works with the Sports Services group fitness program, but for now there is another option for those who want to be guaranteed a weekly spot in the class and aren’t afraid to pay the price. Sports Services offers traditional and mindful yoga in one-hour instructional classes taught over eight weeks. Students have to pay to register for these classes, but once registered, they are guaranteed a spot in each session. The cost per eight-week session is $65 for students, and registration can be done by phone, mail, fax or in person at Montpetit Hall or the

Dec. 4, 2008

Sports Complex. For more information on how to register, visit geegees. ca. The next section begins Jan. 11, giving students a great opportunity to start out the new year with a new source of stress relief. With so many health benefits, yoga is catching on in a big way. Gear up for exams by attending an open class, register for sessions beginning in January to get a jump start on your New Year’s resolution, or just have fun trying something new. You don’t have to bend and twist like a pretzel—yoga has something to offer everyone.

SPORTS

19

Opinion

Point/counterpoint:

Michael Olender Executive Editor [email protected] Dec. 4, 2008–Jan. 7, 2009

20

Which rock rocks hardest? or Who is ‘The Rock’? illustration by Amlake Tedla-Digaf

Rock of Gibraltar

Allan Rock

WHEN IT COMES to rocks, you’re going to be very hard-pressed to beat the Rock of Gibraltar. Seriously, it’s a 400-metre-tall rock off the southern coast of Spain that juts out of nowhere from the Mediterranean Sea. And not only is it the only rock in this battle to be prominently mentioned in a Jay-Z song (“How could you falter when you the Rock of Gibraltar?”), but according to myth, it was formed when Hercules decided to smash through a mountain. Really, does it get much more badass than that? Actually, the Rock of Gibraltar is traditionally known as an invincible bastion— the phrase “solid as the Rock of Gibraltar” describes a person or situation that never fails, at any cost. Does Allan Rock have a degree in invincibility? He most definitely does not, and the only other rock out there that comes close to being invincible is Sean Connery, but only because he played James Bond. Face it, rocks: no matter how awesome you think you are, you just can’t top a giant, invincible rock punched out of a mountain by a mythic hero. —David McClelland

SO WHAT IF the other rocks have gravelly exteriors, celebrity status, or baking abilities? It’s intelligence and expertise that prevail in every battle, and the U of O’s president is the only one who clearly exemplifies these qualities. Allan Rock can dodge any attack the other pitiful rocks may launch, after spending nearly a decade deflecting attacks as a cabinet minister. I seriously doubt Dwayne Johnson could endure having his so-called capabilities being put to the test by sly opposition MPs. Everyone knows the powerful wit and stinging retort a politician—even a former one—can possess, and no matter how composed and cool Sean Connery may seem to be, I’m sure he’d break down in tears after being challenged on the floor of the House of Commons. And don’t forget about Rock’s work with the United Nations. Last I heard, the Queen of England didn’t back any of the other contenders as she did when she appointed Rock to represent Canada on the global stage. I’m positive he could diplomatically negotiate the defeat of all of his opponents. —Emma Godmere

The pet rock

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson

Sean Connery in The Rock

Anna Rocoski

ON THE FIELD of battle atop the Rock of Gibraltar, Igneous the pet rock sits perfectly still, showing the patience and resilience of his breed. He is a pet rock, hewn from the first stone to break the ocean and adorned with googly eyes forged in the fires of Black Mountain. He mentally prepares for dawn and the battle to come. Against Allan Rock, he shall use his slippery-top stratagem, and the president is at risk because of his fine shoes. The wrestler will need to be dealt with carefully, by striking him soundly about the head. Connery will fall from a powerful beam shot from the googly eyes of eternal doom. The girl, Anna, shall be spared, assuming she can swim back after being launched into the sea. Pet rocks are always underestimated. These other rocks consider themselves above rocks like Igneous, but little do they know the true power of a pet that can sit and stay better than any other. Today, the pet rock’s time has come. —Dave Atkinson

WITH ONE EYEBROW arched gracefully above his masculine visage, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson will end the hopes and dreams of all who challenge for his title. There can be only one Rock, and it is he. For those other rocks who disagree, Johnson has a four-step solution: they have to take their delusions of grandeur, turn them sideways, grease ‘em up real nice, and shove them up their candy asses. He’s got the People’s Elbow and the Rock Bottom on tap for those who oppose him—Connery, Igneous, even Rocoski won’t be absolved from pain. The Rock is saving up a power-bomb off the turnbuckle for Allan Rock that will finally bring an end to their infamous feud over the ethics of humanitarian intervention, which began at Wrestlemania XII. Johnson doesn’t even need to use his immense talent as an actor to win this fight—it doesn’t matter what your name is, The Rock will straight up rock you. —Peter Henderson

FIRST OFF, SEAN Connery is pretty badass just for being the original James Bond. However, Connery’s role in The Rock proved that he is in fact the ultimate human being. In the movie, he escaped from Alcatraz. Yes, that’s right—the prison that was deemed escape-proof. In case that isn’t impressive enough, Connery’s actionhero skills saved 81 hostages and prevented San Francisco from being bombed by radical Marines, all while keeping that glorious beard intact. In case the plot alone doesn’t prove that Connery is beyond human, in the movie he throws a knife through a man’s neck to prove why you should never hesitate. We all know that everyone—even Dwayne Johnson, Allan Rock, and Anna Rocoski—hesitates and that Connery’s jacket is lined with knives. As for his non-human enemies, Connery will surely defeat Gibraltar and Igneous as he conquered the foreboding cliffs of Alcatraz Island. —Frank Appleyard

ANNA “THE ROCK” Rocoski has been a Fulcrum volunteer for nearly a year now, and in that time, she’s learned a few things, namely: how to end lives. You can’t be a good Fulcrum volunteer without the ability to sneak up on people. So while Sean Connery is relaxing on an island paid for using the rugged good looks that even the most heterosexual man would describe as “somewhat arousing”, Anna is disguised as a humble mango tree studying his every movement. Anna casts off her disguise and lunges towards Connery. After a few swift punches to the beard, Anna has surely won the battle. Pet rock? Anna has a pet dragon. Her writing abilities and powers of deduction make Allan Rock look like Kevin Federline. As for Dwayne Johnson, Anna has something he’ll never have: a diploma in baking. Do you smell what The Rock is cooking? It’s your ass, fresh out of the oven. —Ben Myers

Non-normative gender is not a disease by James Albaugh The McGill Daily MONTREAL (CUP) – IN 1973, THE American Psychiatric Association (APA) removed homosexuality from its list of diagnostic criteria for mental illnesses. This was a major early victory for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered, and queer rights. However, despite these achievements, two particularly troubling diagnoses remain: transvestic fetishism and gender identity disorder. These diagnoses, which govern how transgender and gender non-conforming people interact with mentalhealth providers, reflect stereotypes rather than actual people—and, with perverse irony, often hurt the people they’re supposed to help.

Transvestic fetishism is categorized as a paraphilia—or sexual fetish—just like pedophilia. This categorization reinforces stereotypes of cross-dressers as sexual predators. In addition, one of the criteria for a diagnosis is “over a period of at least six months, in a heterosexual male, recurrent, intense, sexually arousing fantasies, sexual urges, or behaviours involving cross-dressing”. This feeds into the stereotype of cross-dressers as people who dress that way for sexual pleasure. However, people cross-dress for much more varied reasons than sexual thrills. Furthermore, it’s not really clear why, medically, only heterosexual males can be diagnosed with transvestic fetishism. The rules for diagnosing gender identity disorder focus even more on

these rigid gender stereotypes, especially in children. Criteria in children assigned male at birth include “aversion toward rough-and-tumble play” and “rejection of male stereotypical toys, games, and activities”. This ignores the full range of human possibility. It’s entirely possible to be a woman and feel like a woman while enjoying “rough-and-tumble play” or “male stereotypical toys, games, and activities”. In fact, not only would I wager that it’s possible, I’d also wager that you have interacted with such a person today. The APA claims the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual for Mental Disorders (DSM)—the standard guide for identifying mental disorders in both the U.S. and Canada—does not say anything about treatment, only diagnosis.

Still, the DSM frames these issues in terms of traditional gender stereotypes. The real irony, though, is that this diagnosis legitimizes stigmas surrounding gender-variant behaviour by linking them to the stigmas associated with mental illness, which can only hurt those who truly need mental-health services. When declassifying homosexuality as a mental illness, the APA acknowledged that social factors were often responsible for depression, shame, and other issues that led some lesbian, gay, and bisexual people to seek help from mental-health sources. Why then does the APA refuse to acknowledge that social factors are often responsible for those same issues of depression and shame in gender non-conforming people? Perhaps most perversely, these diagnostic criteria allow people who retreat deeply into the closet—which can be very damaging to their mental health—to escape a diagnosis and the social stigma of mental illness. At the same time, those who decide

whether or not to transition to another gender, and by how much, are happy with who they are, yet they remain marked with that stigma for the rest of their lives. The best argument against removing or reclassifying gender identity disorder is that a diagnosis can be necessary for some health-insurance claims, which can be essential for one’s transition and gender reassignment surgery, especially given the expense and the number of transgendered people facing job discrimination and lack of family support. Such treatment is medically necessary—without it, a significant number of transgendered people would commit suicide. Some still do, not realizing there is another way. And the need to have a justification for insurance purposes does not force transgendered people to accept a need to define non-normative gender as a disease. The APA will not release its next revision to the DSM until 2012; however, a draft is due next year. If the APA continues this injustice, it will fall on transgendered people to act.

HECKLES: Get your floormates the best gift of all this Christmas: not pissing them off by Lisa Le Fulcrum Contributor AFTER LIVING IN residence for about three months, you begin to realize that your floormates are of all different breeds, and different people don’t necessarily live in perfect harmony with one another. Think about it this way: it’s like living with all the people in your classes and dealing with their extra little quirks and mannerisms, 24/7. Here are some steps you can take to avoid pissing off your floormates, because the walls are thin, and as of late, so is your neighbour’s tolerance level. Step 1: Do not overplay an already overplayed song There’s a constant stream of music on the radio, in cars, in restaurants, and in malls, and it’s the same song assaulting your ears over and over and over. The endless replay can drive a person up the wall. People come back to their dorms to escape the infuriating songs that haunt them everywhere they go. Everyone on the floor is going to snap if they hear “I Kissed a Girl” through the walls for the millionth time, loud and clear, while they’re trying to decipher their philosophy textbooks. So if you’re going to listen to music, use headphones. Please. Step 2: Do not party at 3 a.m. on a Thursday What compels a person to be awake

www.thefulcrum.ca

Dec. 4, 2008

at 3 a.m. unless they’re finishing an assignment due early in the morning? Most students have classes on Thursday, and some even have the misfortune of an 8:30 a.m. class. You might not have early Thursday classes—lucky you—but it doesn’t mean others don’t. Being woken up by someone belting out their best rendition of “I Kissed a Girl” at 3 a.m. on a weeknight pisses off the entire floor. Step 3: Do not repeatedly use an appliance that will blow the fuse What happens when two girls each use a hairdryer and a hair straightener at the same time? The fuse blows. What happens the next time they do that? And the next time? Their neighbours’ mental fuses blow. In some residences, the power is connected between two rooms, so that if one fuse goes out, there’s still power in half the room (hopefully the stereo playing “I Kissed a Girl” was on the side that went out). So if one fuse goes out, you can bet your perfectly coiffed hair that your neighbour’s power went out too. If you really have to spend half an hour on your hair, do it in the bathroom. Follow these three simple steps and your floor will cease being a passive-aggressive war zone. If you choose not to, your floormates will keep silently hating you from down the hall. At least.

OPINION

21

Sarah Leavitt Features Editor [email protected]

Distractions

Dear Di

Dec. 4, 2008–Jan. 7, 2009

Thryllabus Thursday, Dec. 4 Cinéclub francophone: Molière. 7:30 p.m. Fauteux Hall. Room 137. Free.

If you have a question for Di, e-mail [email protected].

Dear Di, My girlfriend and I are about to have sex for the first time (first time ever for each of us). Something that’s come up in conversation is that she has never masturbated, does not do so currently, and never will. What this means is she’s never had an orgasm. I’m worried that she won’t come when we have sex. Any suggestions? —Two Virgins In A Pod Dear TVIAP, Congratulations on taking this step with your girlfriend! And double (no, triple!) congratulations for considering, in advance, how you can make sex great for her. The first thing to remember is: relax. The first time is always nerve-wracking, but please don’t worry any more than is absolutely necessary. Stressing about whether she is enjoying it will only put pressure on the both of you. You want to keep your mind on what’s happening, not on what may or may not happen at the end of your sack session. Now, there are lots of ways to get your girl to the big O the first time, and all subsequent times. Remember that even though you guys are going all the way, fooling around (before, during, and even after) is still a wonderful (and important!) part of the whole dance. Have lube at the ready, and make sure it’s one you have tested before—some girls are sensitive to some kinds of lube. The last thing you want is a nasty reaction on your big night. First things first: I would suggest starting off with the missionary position, which tends to be the easiest for both guy and girl. You can prop a pillow or two under

her bum to lift her up and towards you, which will help you penetrate deeper. Don’t be afraid to mix it up once you get more comfortable. Doggy-style is a great way to optimize her pleasure, because you can thrust and stimulate her clitoris at the same time, and many women only come from clitoral stimulation. This position may take a bit of balance and coordination at first, but I guarantee that once you figure it out, you will find yourself doing it again and again. My prediction is that you will be surprised by how much your girlfriend enjoys sex once you get started. Just remember to pay attention to all her parts—kiss her breasts, neck, stomach, and back (and lower, if you are so inclined), make sure to stimulate her clitoris, and most of all, pay attention to her reactions. Be sure to tell her to let you know what she likes and doesn’t like. As long as you two are open, I am positive you will make your way to O-town in no time. Last but not least, remember to have protection handy. Nobody wants to worry about getting knocked up. Once that’s settled, jump under the covers and enjoy. Let me know how everything went! Love, Di Dear Di, Hey, I was wondering. Is there a right and wrong area of someone’s ass on which to spank them? Thanks. —She Cried Dear SC, Yes! The fleshier, the better. Always make sure to ask him or her if it’s okay to spank beforehand, don’t spank too hard,

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Friday, Dec. 5

and try not to smack the kidneys or the tailbone. Love, Di Dear Di, Why don’t guys hit on me at Pub 101? I’m fun, witty, and decent-looking but I always find myself talking to the bartender at the end of the night. —Tequila Sunrise Dear TS, Because you spend too much time wondering why guys don’t like you. Get out to the bar, be fun, be witty, and remember not to drink too much. Love, Di Dear Di, I saw your list issue, and I’ve been wondering: my boyfriend won’t stop wearing mandals (sandals for men), even in the wintertime. Is he gay? —At Least It’s Not Socks With Sandals Dear ALINSWS, He’s probably not gay, but he may be a fan of frostbite. Mandals are for American Eagle models only. The rest of the world’s male population should stick to chic Lacoste sneaks or classy Kenneth Coles. Love, Di

Panel discussion: “Climate change and health.” 5 p.m. Roger Guindon Hall. Amphitheatre A. Free.

Friday, Dec. 12 Concert: The Stairwell Carollers. 7:30 p.m. St. Paul’s Eastern United Church. 473 Cumberland St. $12 for students.

Saturday, Dec. 13 Opera Lyra presents: Cinderella. 7 p.m. National Arts Centre. 53 Elgin St. $18.

Saturday, Dec. 6 Sunday, Dec. 14 Concert: Canadian Guitar Quartet. 8 p.m. Tabaret Hall. Room 112. $15 for students.

Sunday, Dec. 7 The Secret of the Grain. 3:15 p.m. ByTowne Cinema. 325 Rideau St. $9, $6 for members.

Patti Smith: Dream of Life. 8:40 p.m. ByTowne Cinema. 325 Rideau St. $9, $6 for members.

Monday, Dec. 15 Lecture: “The Colonizer and the Colonized.” 4:30 p.m. Fauteux Hall. Room 202. Free.

Monday, Dec. 8 Tuesday, Dec. 16 Workshop: “Thinking Critically About School Rules and Civil Liberties.” 10 a.m. Lamoureux Hall. Room 122. Free.

Photography exhibit: Andrew Burlone. 8:30 a.m.–7:30 p.m. Alliance Française. 352 MacLaren St. Free.

Tuesday, Dec. 9 Wednesday, Dec. 17 Performance: John D. Huston in A Christmas Carol. 8 p.m. St. Bartholomew’s Anglican Church. 125 Mackay Ave. $25.

Concert: Jeff Rogers. 7:30 p.m. Tuscon’s. 2440 Bank St. 19+. Free.

Thursday, Dec. 18 Wednesday, Dec. 10 Concert: An Irish Christmas. 7:30 p.m. National IrishCanadian Cultural Centre. 314 Patrick St. $20.

Comedy show: Jennifer Grant. 8:30 p.m. Yuk Yuk’s. 88 Albert St. 19+. $25. 2-for-1 student tickets.

Friday, Dec. 19 Thursday, Dec. 11

Hearsay

by Jordan Moffatt The Thryllabus needs lots of events to remain so thrilling. E-mail [email protected] with suggestions.

sudoku answers on p.17

Exhibit: Great Big Smalls. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Cube Gallery. 7 Hamilton Ave. Free.

Exhibit: Dirty Laundry by Tarek Al-Zand. 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Cumberland Gallery. 255 Centrum Boul. Free.

Frank Appleyard Editor-in-Chief [email protected]

Editorial

f

Praying to Giftzilla since 1942. Volume 69 - Issue 16 Dec. 4, 2008–Jan. 7, 2009 phone: (613) 562-5261 fax: (613) 562-5259 631 King Edward Ave. Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5 [email protected] www.thefulcrum.ca

Dec. 4, 2008–Jan. 7, 2009

SFUO first-semester report cards Name Dean Haldenby SFUO president

Strengths •

•

•

Undertook an extremely ambitious project in planning for a new student centre. Has taken a firm stance in support of equality and student rights when dealing with the administration. Helped push the U-Pass to within one vote of City acceptance.

Recycle this paper or you’re on the naughty list.

Weaknesses •

•

•

Staff Frank ‘rock band’ Appleyard Editor-in-Chief [email protected]

Joël Larose SFUO vp social

Michael ‘geodude’ Olender Executive Editor [email protected]

Emma ‘igneous’ Godmere News Editor [email protected]

•

•

Ben ‘rock band 2’ Myers Production Manager [email protected]

Martha ‘granite’ Pearce Art Director [email protected]

•

Seamus Wolfe SFUO vp university affairs

• •

•

Peter ‘and roll’ Henderson Arts & Culture Editor [email protected] David ‘sedimentary’ McClelland Sports Editor [email protected]

Sarah ‘ayers’ Leavitt Features Editor [email protected] Danielle ‘blarney stone’ Blab Laurel ‘pumice’ Hogan Copy Editors Amanda ‘stonehenge’ Shendruk Associate News Editor [email protected]

•

Danika Brisson SFUO vp student affairs

• • •

Julie Séguin SFUO vp communications

James ‘rune stone’ Edwards Webmaster [email protected]

•

•

•

Alex ‘rocky horror picture show’ Martin Staff Illustrator Inari ‘magma’ Vaissi Nagy Jiselle ‘lava’ Bakker Ombudsgirls [email protected]

•

•

•

Verdict

Grade

CFS referendum occupied too much of his time, rendering him frequently invisible. The Student Association for the Faculty of Arts’ (SAFA) decision to examine relations with the SFUO is somewhat troubling, as relations with federated bodies are Haldenby’s responsibility. Some complaints that Haldenby’s SFUO has not reached out to uninvolved students with enough effort or frequency.

Increased consultation of the student body will help to round out work on his projects and improve relations with both SAFA and undergraduate students in general.

Has presented a grand vision to undergrads while capably overseeing the SFUO’s day-today operations.

B+

•

Raised eyebrows with the unexpected Wake Up and Vote wakeboarding event, although it showed a willingness to think outside the box.

Has set the bar high for the upcoming semester. Must work hard to maintain the frequency and quality of social events.

A very strong semester from the first-term vp.

A

One of the SFUO’s most visible and passionate executives. Heavily involved in the defeat of the administration’s proposed code of conduct, and in working toward a student bill of rights. Acts as a bridge between students and levels of governance; created the SFUO’s collegial governance coordinator; lobbied on students behalves at various levels. Opened the Campaigns Committee to all students.

•

Intense focus on Drop Fees led to an absence of SFUO campaigns. Adamant political views can make him a divisive figure at times.

A revival of SFUO in-house campaigns.

Passion is never in question—though his representation of the student body’s views sometimes is.

B

Has dramatically increased services and funding available to clubs. Expanded last year’s Green Week into the much larger Green Weeks. Heavily involved in work on sustainability within the SFUO.

•

Works behind the scenes as one of the more invisible executives. Her portfolio lacks the ongoing major projects that could truly define her second term as vp student affairs.

Would benefit from greater interaction with students, and putting a face on the SFUO’s student services

Brisson has brought both stability and continued growth to the portfolio.

B

Worked heavily on promoting bilingualism and strengthening the francophone community. Placed increased emphasis on Facebook and other non-traditional media in event promotion. Has pushed for—and received—offcampus media exposure for the SFUO.

•

Has not offered the new and ambitious approach to the portfolio on which she campaigned during elections. Several projects are still incomplete after eight months of her term (website redesign, campus-wide TV screens, overhauled events calendar). Seems to have gotten too actively involved in campaigns and initiatives, rather than sticking to the public relations-heavy job description.

Revive the passionate and innovative promoter students voted for in February.

While students have been presented with information about the SFUO’s services, events, and campaigns, Seguin has not been the vp that students were expecting.

C-

Has been more visible in her role with the Yes committee in the CFS referendum than for any SFUO undertakings. Some murmured complaints from federated bodies about lack of support from the vp finance. Health plan confusion and uncertainty is still rampant among undergraduate students.

Holding open forums on financial questions— including how to reinvest SFUO surpluses back in students—would increase both visibility and accountability.

Has worked mostly behind-the-scenes, but has handled the portfolio capably.

B-

•

•

•

•

Roxanne Dubois SFUO vp finance

Next step

Led the organization of a virtually flawless 101 Week—the position’s most significant undertaking. Has kept up the frantic pace of social planning on campus, putting together a concert series, and planning the revived SFUO Winter Games, among other initiatives. Oversaw a rejuvenated Shinerama campaign, with a $30,000 increase over last year’s fundraising efforts.

Jessica ‘block rockin’ beats’ Sukstorf Volunteer & Visibility Coordinator [email protected] Megan ‘brock badger’ O’Meara Staff Writer

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Soundly managed the SFUO’s finances thus far, as the union’s budget and spending have been non-issues. Oversaw the birth of the new Café Alternatif food space and retooling of the Pivik’s space and food services. Worked to institute vegetarian, vegan, and green focuses in SFUO businesses.

•

•

•

Travis ‘rock lobster’ Boisvenue Ombudsboy [email protected]

Check out the Fulcrum on Jan. 8 for a wrap up of the Graduate Students’ Association (GSAÉD) executive’s first semester.

Nicole ‘bob rock’ Gall Staff Proofreader

Contributors

Robert ‘roch voisine’ Olender On-campus Distributor Deidre ‘rock’n robin’ Butters Advertising Representative [email protected] Ross ‘rock of ages’ Prusakowski Business Manager [email protected]

Dave ‘mica’ Atkinson Jessica ‘rock talk’ Carter Kristyn ‘irock’ Filip Ian ‘rock the vote’ Flett Phil ‘rockabilly’ Flickinger Daniel ‘rock steady’ Harris Andrew ‘rocky’ Hawley Camila ‘rocky II’ Juarez

Hisham ‘rocky III’ Kelati Lisa ‘rocky VII: adrian’s revenge’ Le Jaclyn ‘rocky IV’ Lytle Carl ‘rocky V’ Meyer Jordan ‘shock rock’ Moffatt Ryan ‘rocky balboa’ Pilarczyk Anna ‘folk rock’ Rocoski Amlake ‘i am a rock’ Tedla-Digaf

Additional images courtesy www.sxc.hu

cover photo by Ian Flett

Shop at your Apple Authorized Campus Store today. Sh www.apple.ca/buy/hied ww

The University of Ottawa Bookstore Cosmos Computer Department 613-562-5858 [email protected], www.bookstore.uottawa.ca

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