Nexus Issue 19-10 Final

Volume 19 Issue 10 January 21, 2009

noisE aDDict

WoRtH tHE tRip

Lone student starts anti-Aramark Facebook group and seeks salvation in food quality on campus.

Rock bands with the word Black in their names usually include dudes with gnarly Jesus beards. Fact!

Food critics Guy Alaimo and Donald Kennedy praise the merits of tasty sandwiches and pretty girls.

caMpus—5

aRts—11

coluMns—14

Filming the harsh reali ties of Israel’s divided cit y PAGES 8-9

PHoto:MutHANA AL-QADI

Camosun’s Student Voice Since 1990

DaviD vs goliatHs

VIEWS Nexus Editorial

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Next publication date: Feb. 4, 2009 Deadline: noon Jan. 28, 2009 Address: Location: Phone: Email: Website:

3100 Foul Bay Rd., Victoria, BC, V8P 5J2 Lansdowne Richmond House 201 250-370-3591 [email protected] www.nexusnewspaper.com

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NE XUS PUBLISHIN G S O C I E T Y ST U D E N T B OA R D M E M B E R S

Kyla Ferns Kelly Marion Liz McArthur Andrea Moir Jason Motz Chris Pal Miriam Putters M A N AG I N G E D I TO R

Jason Schreurs L AYO U T E D I TO R

Laila Brown ST U D E N T E D I TO R

Tessa Cogman CO P Y E D I TO R

Alan Piffer E D I TO R I A L A S S I STA NT

Kait Cavers STA F F W R I T E R S

Guy Alaimo Brendan Kergin STA F F P H OTO G R A P H E R

Courtney Broughton A DV E RT I S I N G S A LE S

Breanna Carey Jason Schreurs 250-370-3593 Campus Plus NATIONAL 1-800-265-5372 D I ST R I B U T I O N

Adrian Binakaj Ashley Moore CO N T R I B U TO R S :

Guy Alaimo Adrian Binakaj Michael Brar Courtney Broughton Breanna Carey Kait Cavers Tessa Cogman Zan Comerford Shannon Graham Maelina de Grasse Samantha Doney Michael Duncan Christopher Gillespie Toya Grieve Brendan Kergin Donald Kennedy Keltie Larter Kelly Marion Chloe Markgraf Jason Motz Shane Scott-Travis Rhea Smilowski Alan Piffer Nathan Stam Joel Witherington

the views and opinions expressed herein are those of the authors, not of the Nexus Publishing Society. one copy of Nexus is available per issue, per person. Nexus is printed on a mixture of 100 and 40 percent recycled paper. Please recycle your copy. thanks! Editorial meetings Come out to our weekly Nexus editorial meetings, where all Camosun students can get involved in their student newspaper. Meetings take place every tuesday at 11:30 am in the Nexus office, richmond House 201, Lansdowne. Call 370-3591 or e-mail [email protected] for more information. Send a letter Nexus prints letters that are 250 words or less in response to previous stories. Nexus reserves the right to refuse publication of letters. Letters must include full name and student number (not printed). Nexus accepts all letters by e-mail to [email protected]

January 21, 2009

Vancouver Island closed for maintenance tEssa cogMan StAFF WrItEr

Are you aware that Canadians have the most knowledge about the weather and talk about it more frequently than any other country? Seriously, stop going on dates and asking the person across the table, “So how aboot this weather, eh?” It’s getting annoying. Islanders are the worst. Not only do we talk about the weather too much, but the entire island also shuts down at a mere glance of the fluffy white stuff. This winter was a brutal one, but I’ve seen students walk to school in four feet of snow in Grande Prairie, Alberta with more snowballs than us. In Victoria the cab companies put their busy tones on instantly, and most family-run restaurants go on vacation. There’s nowhere to go for food, pizza boys go on strike, buses refuse to drive, and people call in sick to work because they have all-season tires and no snow shovel in sight. Stop the whining and be prepared! We look like pansies. We’re supposed to live in igloos, remember?

Open Space

On the other hand, I know a lot of snowboard enthusiasts in Victoria, and this winter acted as a goldmine up at Mount Washington. There was more powder up there than up Hunter S. Thompson’s nose.

We look like pansies. We’re supposed to live in igloos, remember? The City of Victoria needs to look at this winter as a warning. We need more money put towards our snow budget—we’re the capital city, for Pete’s sake. Some major roads weren’t even plowed and volunteers with bags of salt were seen everywhere. At least we’re a city that has a lot of nice folks with bags of salt. We’re going to look pretty silly if 10 centimeters of snow shuts down Vancouver during the Winter Olympics. If New Brunswick was hosting the games, it would find a way to keep traffic moving even if

DrAWINg: ADrIAN bINAkAJ

10 times that amount fell. Yes, far too much emphasis is put on the weather, and I realize I’m being a hypocrite by writing about it, but if we all complain to

the city to put aside some more time and effort, and buy some better tires for ourselves, then maybe we won’t have to dig ourselves out next year.

open Space accepts submissions from Camosun students. Submissions to open Space should be 400 words or less. responses to previous articles in Nexus should be 250 words or less. E-mail submissions to [email protected] and include your name and student number.

Find happiness by rejecting consumerism JoEl WitHERington CoNtrIbutINg WrItEr

Our world is filled with conveniences. Almost any object we desire is available to us after a quick trip to the shopping mall or corner store. Globalization has given us cheap products from all over the world. And it’s not hard to get a source of income to buy these cheap goods; student loans, bursaries, rich relatives, and employment on and off campus are available to those who want to spend a bit of time applying, searching, or begging. But do all the latest gadgets, new clothing, and silly accessories

really give us that much pleasure or happiness? How long does it take before you get tired of your new cell phone, pair of shoes, or latest video game? Is all the work you put in to get your latest object of desire really worth it? In most cases, it’s not. Normally the fun and novelty of something new quickly goes away and we’re left with a desire for something else. Start the process over again and go shopping. Desiring objects can be like an addiction, and feeding this desire just leads to a stronger addiction. It seems the Buddhists were right— the more you have, the more you’ll

desire, while the less you have, the less you’ll desire.

Do all the latest gadgets, new clothing, and silly accessories really give us that much pleasure or happiness? If this weren’t true, then people with the most stuff would be the

PISE facility the temple of sport MicHaEl BRaR CoNtrIbutINg WrItEr

By the time exam week rolls around each quarter/semester, most of us are either totally out of gas or are barely hanging on for that last, painful final. I, most assuredly, am no exception. Our coping techniques are all quite different, but nothing works better for me than an hour or two in the gym. With four out of five exams yet to be written last quarter, I found myself wandering blearily around the Pacific Institute for Sport Excellence (PISE) at 8 am searching desperately for some motivation. At 8:30 am, I found it. The Canadian National Men’s Rugby Team had joined me in the empty weight room for a training session, and I was absolutely blown away by their god-like strength and ability.

And that was neither the first nor the last time I was lucky enough to watch world-class athletes train at PISE. At least once a week, I am treated to the workouts of elite rowers, volleyball players, body builders, soccer players, and seemingly everyone in between. Which begs the question, why is it always empty in there? The PISE prides itself on being the best athletic training facility in the city, and I am inclined to agree. Three state-of-the-art weight rooms, a world-class gymnasium, and two turf soccer pitches are the backbone of the institution, and yet their locker rooms sit empty most of the time. To be fair, PISE isn’t the type of place you would go to slowly walk on a treadmill for 45 minutes while watching Paris Hilton’s My New BFF; it’s the type of place where

committed men and women come to train and talk shop with other, similarly minded individuals. Victoria has no shortage of people like this, and yet I spend most of my time there training in silence with no one around to talk to other than the friendly PISE staff and the occasional Olympic-level athlete. PISE is an under-appreciated gem located right next to Interurban Campus. The combination of fair membership rates (students pay $5/day, $91/four months, or $173/school year), excellent trainers, and the aforementioned facilities add up to an unbeatable package that not nearly enough people have taken advantage of. If you’re still unsure about where you should go to fulfill your new year’s resolution, give PISE a chance.

happiest in the world, while people who live a life of moderation would be the unhappiest. In my experience, this isn’t the case. I recommend a life of simple pleasures. We’re surrounded by them on Vancouver Island. We’re blessed to live in a place with beautiful scenery to enjoy and interesting people from all different backgrounds to socialize with. By enjoying the simpler pleasures in life, we can stop our desires for object acquisition. That way, we won’t have to work as much to afford all these things, leaving us more time to find other things to make us smile.

Help build our team

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NEWS

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Iggy lays out Canadian foreign policy By Sam Norris The Peak (Simon Fraser University)

VANCOUVER (CUP)—In a recent appearance before supporters in Vancouver, new Liberal leader Michael Ignatieff laid out a muscular vision for Canadian foreign policy. “It’s unfamiliar for Canadians to understand how powerful the oil sands make us,” he told the crowd. “We don’t like to play the power card, but it’s very important with the United States, even with a Democratic administration, to be as tough as hell.” Ignatieff cited sovereignty over the Northwest Passage and the renegotiation of the North American Free Trade Agreement as two situations where its role as the largest supplier of energy to the United States would increase Canada’s clout at the bargaining table. “[The oil sands] changes everything about our economic future; it changes everything about Canada’s importance in the world,” he said. Although Ignatieff called for increased effort towards cleaning up oil sands projects, which have been criticized by environmental groups for their high carbon emissions, water use, and environmental despoliation, he ruled out either shutting them down or adopting a carbon tax, which could potentially

“The dumbest thing you can do—and no Liberal must ever do it—is run against Alberta, make Alberta the enemy, isolate Alberta.” Michael Ignatieff Liberal leader

make oil sands projects unprofitable and slow development. “We got killed at the doorstep

with the Green Shift. It was a good testors greeted the Liberal leader, idea . . . [but] we couldn’t get it banging pots and chanting prothrough,” said Ignatieff. “Every- Palestinian slogans. body who ran a tractor, everybody Ignatieff, who told reporters last who ran a boat, everybody who week “Canada has to support the drove a truck for a living, said right of a democratic country to dethere’s only one thing I understand fend itself,” was asked to denounce about this—’You’ve just added to Israel’s attack on Gaza. my cost of living.’” Instead, he maintained “there But Ignatieff vowed not to jetti- are no military solutions here,” son former Liberal leader Stéphane and reiterated his support for the Dion’s environmental sensibilities two-state solution, with Canadian from the platform. Liberals are humanitarian assistance and a posexpected to adopt a cap-and-trade sible United Nations peacekeeping system as part of their platform. force. Ignatieff also warned the audi“The rocket attacks on Sderot ence of the national unity implica- and Ashkelon and Ashdod have tions of oil sand policy. to stop; they’ve just got to stop,” “The dumbest thing you can he said. do—and no Liberal must ever do “Israeli civilians have been killed, it—is run against Alberta, make Israel has a right to take actions Alberta the enemy, isolate Alberta,” in self-defense,” he later told the he said, perhaps referring to the crowd inside. discontent spawned in the provWhen pressed for clarification ince by former Prime Minister after the event, Ignatieff said it Pierre Trudeau’s National Energy wasn’t the Canadian government’s Program. “place” to say whether or not Israel’s The program legislated a below- response to Hamas had been promarket price for Canadian oil and portional, but that Canada should funneled oil dollars into federal concentrate on providing humanicoffers, both primarily at Alberta’s tarian and medical aid. expense. The BC Young Liberals-sponThe most contentious subject of sored event, which was Ignatieff’s the night, however, was Ignatieff’s first youth event since becoming position on the recent fighting in Liberal leader, was so well attended Gaza. that an overflow room had to be Upon arrival, anti-war pro- opened.

Mature student policy increases college accessibility more flexible approach in that if a ‘mature’ student gains access to a The good news is a new trial program, then there would not be policy at Camosun will make select the need to meet individual course programs at the college more ac- requirements,” says Pooni. cessible for students who are 23 or The policy will enable the cololder. The only drawback? Younger lege to allow admission to programs students will now be referred to as based on an individual assessment “mature students.” process, where both life and work “It’s better than immature stu- experience are valued, instead dent,” jokes Lansdowne student of traditional entrance requireMiles Patterson, who is now classi- ments. fied as a mature student under the While many other post-seconddeveloping policy. ary institutions have had mature In the past, the college didn’t student policies for some time, have a mature student policy and students usually still have to fulfill prerequisites were required for prerequisites in order to access students of all ages. The new policy, programs. presented at a recent Camosun “We are looking to offer someEducation Council meeting, will be thing more substantial [than other more accommodating than policies institutions] which needs to be at other institutions, according to modeled with a pilot,” says Pooni. Vice-President of Education and The pilot programs that will Student Services Baldev Pooni. introduce the policy include Crim“We are hoping to develop a inal Justice, Electronics and ComZan Comerford

Contributing Writer

puter Engineering Technology, Applied Business Technology, Sport

A committee of chairs and deans will carefully monitor the policy to ensure academic standards and student participation levels are maintained. Management, Exercise and Wellness, and Community Support and Educational Assistant, some of which are still in development themselves. Christopher Gillepsie, external

affairs executive for Camosun College Student Society, predicts the policy will attract more students and help the college avoid drop offs in enrolment. “I suspect the pilot programs were chosen based on their levels of provincial funding to ensure representation from Camosun’s variety of schools,” says Gillepsie. A committee of chairs and deans will carefully monitor the policy to ensure academic standards and student participation levels are maintained. The committee will be meeting regularly over the next academic year to design a framework for the policy and eventually create a standardized procedure for the expansion of the policy into further programs. Maybe being called a “mature student” does have its benefits after all.

NEWS BRIEFS

by Kait Cavers

Bored? GAMES! If you’re interested in collectable miniatures, trading cards, role-playing games, board games, video games, demonstrations, contests, information sessions, vendors, or anything else related to games, gaming, nerdy stuff, or having fun, then you need to check out Gottacon. The three-day convention, which takes place at the Pearkes Recreation Centre Feb. 6–8, promises to deliver a highquality and exciting environment that will mark Gottacon as an annual destination for all gaming enthusiasts. If you’re one of the many gamers who agree Vancouver Island has a huge void where quality gaming should exist, then this convention was developed specifically for you. Get gaming!

The polar opposite of ecstasy He thought he was making a super stellar drug deal, but what an 18-year-old Victoria university student actually received was a court date from Saanich Police. On Jan.7, an undercover officer made a purchase from a student who was selling the psychotropic drug thylenedioxymethamphetamine, which is more commonly known as MDMA, Ecstasy, X, E, or caps. The student was arrested without incident and taken directly to the Saanich Police Department, where after being printed, photographed, and interviewed, he was released on a “Promise to Appear” for a court date in early February. In the student’s defense, he claims to have been selling a pure substance in a drug market that has recently seen a wave of substances cut with chemicals potent enough to send users to the emergency room with symptoms similar to an overdose or, worse, death (real good argument there, buddy). Play it safe and avoid the whole scene.

What’s 10 grand plus 40 grand? Any accounting student can tell you it’s the amount raised for the Certified General Accountants Program here at the college. When accounting students, business faculty,

Continued on page 4

If you could rule the world for one day, what would you change? By Keltie Larter

Jay Ellis

Mike Bandy and Tiffany Buttler

David Kjollesdal

Rainey Becker

Hilary Russell

Elise McCaugherty

I would make government duty like jury duty and everyone would have to spend time making the “big” decisions.

Mike: I’d make people trade in their cars for bicycles—no more cars on the roads! Tiffany: I’d organize a massive potluck so, for one day, no one in the whole world would go hungry. And it’d be a sweet party!

I would make the military-industrial complex utilize their resources for constructive rather than destructive harmonious projects.

I’d just blow it all up and save us all plenty of grief!

End world hunger!

I’d make it so everyone wasn’t so oblivious to the fact that we are destroying our world!

NEWS

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January 21, 2009

Riding the rails of global economic crisis “The volume of trade between Canada and the US is actually the We all see the doom-and-gloom largest volume of trade between any headlines about the global eco- two countries in the world,” says nomic crisis in the news. You know, Denchev. “We will be affected with big financial companies going demand in the US going down; our broke and government bailouts in exports will suffer.” the trillions of dollars. But what As for our local economy, do all these numbers and figures Denchev notes Victoria is better really mean to students? What are situated than a lot of other parts of we going to see happen in the long the country, but won’t escape the run, and how will it affect us in our economic mess unscathed. day-to-day lives? “The labour market in Victoria is probably still better than the average for the country, but I think that the unemployment rate is growing,” “We will be affected says Denchev. “We will see less with demand in the uS and less job creation in the next few months.” going down; our So are we going to see those long lineups for soup kitchens exports will suffer.” and hobos riding the rails crossyolina DEncHEv country in search of work like those CAMoSuN CoLLEgE old photographs from our history books? According to Denchev, govWhatever does happen, we’ll ernments have learned from the probably be knee-deep in it for a mistakes made which led to the while. depression in the 1930s. “There are [economists] who “We have had, already, a lot think we’re probably going to see of government economic policy the worst of it in the next six months directed to deal with the economic or so, and then after that, we’re situation, and this is the differgoing to go into a recovery,” says ence we did not have during the Camosun Economics professor great depression,” says Denchev. Yolina Denchev. “When it comes to “Governments now have a lot more how the recovery is going to unfold, experience with using monetary there are analysts who think it’s and fiscal policy to stabilize the going to be a long one—it might economy.” take a few years for the economy Much of our current system to get back on track.” of social programs is another key And, says Denchev, since we difference from what was around have such strong economic ties to in the 1930s. the US, Canadians will certainly feel “We have the employment ina lot of the strain of the economic surance system, we have the social situation. safety net, we have many governalan piffER

Calling all ex-gamblers

PHoto: NAtHAN StAM

How hard will Camosun students be hit by the global economic crisis?

ment programs that are in place, and they work automatically to help stabilize the economy,” says Denchev. “There was no Bank of Canada during the Great Depression. It was established in response to the Depression because it was felt that we need a central bank to deal with situations like that.” But while many job prospects may be drying up, a massive demographic shift is taking place which may provide relief to younger job-seekers. With the baby boom generation now retiring, job opportunities are opening up for new generations to fill. This may help to balance out the job losses brought by the current recession. “On one hand, because of the

economic crisis, there’s not much of a demand in the labour market; on the other hand, we still have this longer term demographic transition, which actually works to create jobs,” says Denchev. Considering the current economic situation, Denchev says it’s crucial for students to make the most of their education. “I had one student who said, ‘I was studying part-time before; now I choose to come full-time because there aren’t that many good opportunities in the job market anymore. Now, it’s much better for me to focus on my studies so that when things get better, I will be ready with a degree in hand to go and get a job as a professional.’“

President search to cost college at least $0,000 StAFF WrItEr

As the search for a new Camosun president continues, new details have emerged regarding the status and cost of the search. An executive search firm based in Vancouver, Ray & Berndston, has been hired by Camosun to help

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the school find a new president in time for Liz Ashton’s retirement in May. According to Robin Adair, chair of the Camosun Board of Governors, the college is paying Ray & Berndston $50,000 for their efforts, which includes finding the right candidates for the job based on certain criteria that the school is looking for. There will also be some additional costs to be determined, says Adair. “We want someone to maintain the things that are working well with the college and who can look at the ongoing challenges that the college will face,” says Adair. Challenges like program funding, a common problem for many schools, is one of the things Adair hopes prospective presidents will be willing to take on. “We want someone who is dy-

By Kait cavERs

and the Camosun College Foundation came together in December, they celebrated a fundraising accomplishment that supports the CgA program’s success. Jennifer Smith, vice-chair to Southern Vancouver Island CgA, officially cut the ribbon to the Centre for business and Access’s classroom 286 and titled it the CgA Classroom. College Foundation Development officer Sandra bitz notes the money will support Camosun Accounting students with scholarships and bursaries.

StAFF WrItEr

guy alaiMo

NEWS BRIEFS

namic, somebody who has a strong interest in the education system and a strong understanding of the college system,” says Adair. Adair says Camosun’s expansion plans will likely envelop a big chunk of the future president’s time. Interurban campus, in particular, has many building projects in the works.

velopments at Interurban. CUPE union representative on the board of governors, Max Sternberg, says the search is going well, but would not elaborate. “The work that’s being done is being done in an extremely professional manner,” says Sternberg who, along with the rest of the board, was advised by Roy & Berndston to assign a spokesperson (Adair) to speak to the “they should just take media about the search. Christopher Gillespie, CCSS an ad out in the paper.” external affairs executive and Roy HEltay student board rep, also wasn’t able CAMoSuN StuDENt to comment on the task force and confirms board members were told by the company not to talk “We would like to see a residence to the media or anyone else about on Interurban Campus,” says Adair, the search. also citing the health and human Most Camosun students have services building and a student little knowledge of the current union building as upcoming de- search, but one student voiced his concern over the money Camosun is spending. “It’s pretty silly,” says first-year general arts student Roy Heltay. “They should just take an ad out in the paper. [Roy & Berndston] are just like middlemen. You give them the money and they do the job for you.” According to Adair, a decision will be made on a new president sometime in the spring. “The hope is that the task force will have at least two choices [for president] to present to the board of governors by April, but no later than May,” says Adair.

Are you an ex-gambler who has won the fight against the life-ruining addiction that afflicts thousands of people annually? or do you consider yourself to be dynamic, outgoing, friendly, approachable, not shy about connecting with other students, or have strong communication skills? the bC government, along with the responsible gambling Council, needs your help! they are looking for people to work the interactive display on preventing problem gambling located in the Lansdowne Campus Fisher building Foyer, Feb. 2–5. At 14 bucks an hour, you’ll be making a shit-load more than you would at slots. For info, or anonymous help, you can check out www. knowthescore.ca/bc/jobs.cfm

Visual satisfaction the university of Victoria Visual Arts is hosting a campus community art show and silent auction that will showcase the talent of budding local artists. this exciting event is not only a way for local artists to receive recognition and critique for their work, but also for members of the community to check out some of the insane amounts of talent that exists within Victoria. the show will display something for everyone, with a focus on the mediums of photography, sculpture, painting, recycled art, and more. the art show is currently seeking artists to submit pieces, and is calling on all enthusiasts to pass the word along! For more info, or to submit a piece to the event, e-mail [email protected]

Generousi-Tee back in December, Camosun’s golf Management students took to the olympic View golf Course to raise money for student financial assistance. With the help of a few generous donors, and a couple of sultry swings, the students were able to raise more than $1,000 in proceeds for the Camosun College Foundation of Professional golf Management (PgM) bursary. the PgM bursary golf tournament is an annual event in which 25 sponsors and prize donors participate to continually help make it winwin. olympic View hosted the tournament for the third year in a row. Camosun’s two-year golf Management program puts its focus on management and marketing skills, and is the only program in bC fully recognized by the Canadian PgA.

CAMPUS

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Student crusades for good food on campus Jason Motz Staff Writer

There has been much ado about the cafeteria recently. Some might say too much. Camosun’s food services contract with the previous provider lapsed in the summer. What followed was a bidding process between an array of potential providers, both local and international. When the decision was made, Aramark Corporation was the lucky winner of a brand new, eight-year deal with the college. Hooray, right? Not so fast. Not everyone is pleased to see Aramark on campus. Matteus Clement is one Camosun student at Lansdowne who makes no bones about his issues with Aramark and has even started an anti-Aramark Facebook group for Camosun.

The student’s concerns about Aramark magnified when he began to research the corporate structure behind the grill. “I feel that the place is being macro-managed. We need to micromanage a facility of this size,” asserts the 26-year-old who looks and sounds a lot like Vin Diesel. It becomes abundantly clear when you meet Clement that he’s a passionate advocate for an alternative to cafeteria cuisine. Food has significance for Clement that extends beyond mere health and wellness. “Food creates a sense of community,” says the former personal trainer. In conversation, he’s a veritable question machine. A Texas Instrument with muscles. Clement has grim recollections about Aramark’s first days at Camosun. A coffee junkie, Clement was appalled by the inconsistency of the black blood he required to fuel his mornings. The coffee area was “a disaster,” he says. Cream-slopped counters, spilt sugar glistening in puddles, and an undersupply of lids had Clement questioning the efficiency of Aramark. “If you can’t keep the basics down, your straws and your sticks, then I don’t understand what you’re doing,” says Clement. Donna Burger, food service director for Aramark, admits the company’s arrival on campus was not without some turbulence. “The issue was staffing,” she admits. “We had a lot of things to do.” Informal chats with other stu-

dents about cafeteria food and service stoked Clement’s inquisitive nature. So, he began to ask questions. He communicated with Kathryn LeGros, director of ancillary services at Camosun. He also spoke with Burger and addressed his concerns to both of them. These included pricing that was unfair to students, the lack of greens, and the dominance of wheat on the menu. This last point was key to the wheatintolerant Clement. “And that’s when I started to see that my options were very limited. If it wasn’t pizza, it was baguettes,” says Clement with frustration. That frustration is easy to find in the cafeteria. For the average student, the Caf is just the Caf, not a monolithic corporate entity. In fact, the Caf is a Mecca of indifference. And that makes it a holy place Photo: Courtney Broughton for students like Valerie Lesage, Lansdowne student Matteus Clement has started an anti-Aramark Facebook group for Camosun students. who are lulled into eating there every day. The convenience is seductive. Le Gros, who negotiated the “I’m too lazy and disorganized,” contract with Aramark, says a sesays Lesage, offering no enthusi- lection committee researched the asm for either the Caf or its prod- company before deciding on them Jason Motz Staff Writer ucts. “The salads are quite big, but and was aware of its track record. There are a few things you need to know about the corporation Camosun College they are not particularly affordable,” “Camosun did its due diligence saw as the best fit to provide its students and faculty with food services. she says with disappointment. with the company management and Clement initiated contact with qualifications,” says LeGros. A multinational corporation, Aramarks’ duty is to provide food services to postLeGros via e-mail, but he says the secondary institutions, hospitals, retirement homes, prisons, military installaThe college’s director of anciltions, and offshore oilrigs throughout the world. replies he received did not satisfy lary services isn’t an employee his concerns. Clement was politely of Aramark, but she chooses to Aramark operates globally in 20 countries, employing a force of 245,000 people. brushed off. accentuate the positives about the In Canada, 15,000 people have their cheques signed by Aramark. A planned interview with Bur- multinational company, stressing Aramark is a stud in the business sector, whose roots go back to 1959 and the ger was scuttled abruptly not long “what should be acknowledged and formation of the Automatic Retailers Association. afterwards, says Clement, whose pointed out are the national and But Aramark is not only responsible for fried eggs, pizza, and coffee. Aramark’s queries were passed on to the international achievements that other endeavors include catering, housekeeping, and laundry, as well as the Camosun College Student Society have been awarded to Aramark.” manufacturing of a line of products specifically for all of your law enforcement, (CCSS) and the CAMFOODCOM Meanwhile, CCSS External surveillance, and hazardous material needs. A personal favourite—the chemical (Camosun Food Committee.) Affairs Executive Christopher Giland flame-resistant coveralls . . . with hood! Clement has ambivalent feel- lespie says the student society is A perennial Fortune 500 company, Aramark, whose Canadian head office is ings about the commitment the only peripherally interested in situated in Toronto, has amassed a fortune for its shareholders. CCSS is willing to make, but is opti- Aramark’s dirty laundry. mistic he will have their support. “We have not investigated this In 2008, Aramark was ranked number 1 by Fortune magazine in a survey of “I think the CCSS is doing directly,” admits Gillespie, “but “America’s Most Admired Companies.” Businessweek Magazine called Aramark the best that they can,” he says we are always concerned with one of the “Top 100 Places to Launch a Career” in 2007. Mighty impressive cautiously. stuff! worker’s rights and the quality of Still, Clement admits he’s no products and services offered to But with success comes controversy. Oodles of it! Aramark has seen its corpormartyr and is not leading an armed our members.” ate image challenged on various Facebook groups, including one started by a charge against Corporate America. The last CAMFOODCOM Camosun student. “I don’t expect that everyone will meeting came and went without Tales of Aramark’s workers’ rights violations frequent messageboards all across have the same level of passion as Clement’s concerns about the qualNorth America. I do.” ity in the Caf being addressed. Shouts of union-busting, health code infractions, and fines levied against variClement’s concerns about Ara“What do I need to do to be ous Aramark businesses blot the landscape of the information superhighway. mark magnified when he began to heard?” he asks. “Boycott Aramark” is a call heard across the 49th parallel. research the corporate structure Clement sees the next CAMbehind the grill. Fraud cases in FOODCOM meeting, scheduled Aramark’s mission statement is carried out with a militaristic view of capitalism. The company website is a corporate cum-shot of suit-and-tie warriors, a multiFlorida Prisons, a nasty contract for sometime late in January, as the ethnic Utopia of smiling faces, the phony, “people-helping-people” vision of termination with MIT, accusations battleground in what is becoming America where little girls give daffodils to police officers. of union-busting in NYC, and all for him a personal fight. manner of accusations of violations “I just want to fight this,” says Some would say it’s the kind of hogwash synonymous with corporate juggernauts against workers’ rights and health Clement, “to the bitter end.” such as West, the US Army, and, well, Scientology. code infractions were all under Aramark’s watch. Facebook groups boycotting Aramark are easy to find. Clement’s own group can be found by searching Facebook for “Camosun students against Aramark.”

Getting to know Aramark

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LIFE



Costa Rica Mermaid makes environmental splash

Jenna Sedmak Contributing Writer

Clad in her bathing suit, Renate Herberger, known as the Costa Rica Mermaid, intends to swim the tropical country’s coastline within three months at a rate of eight hours per day. Environmental activists have developed many positive ways to showcase their cause and create more awareness among the general population. This Victoria resident is a notable example of this. “Swimming the length of the coast of Costa Rica is akin to the migrations that we usually associate with marine life, such as humpback whales. By placing myself in this environment I will become one with their world and will be able to experience the interconnectedness of ocean life,” writes Herberger at costaricamermaid.net While she is increasing her own awareness, Herberger is also trying to appeal governments and speak with environmental organizations about the preservation of the marine ecosystem. “The need to promote marine sanctuaries is more urgent than ever. Only one hundredth of one

percent of oceans worldwide is under protection currently,” says Herberger. This journey is a passion and for a great cause. But it’s not an easy course.

“I am promoting her cause because I think that protecting our oceans is something that is not taken seriously enough.” Roxanne Smillie Camosun College Student Society

Herberger fell 70 kilometers short of her goal to swim Costa Rica’s full shoreline in April of last year, so she’s attempting the swim again and will continue with her busy agenda. “To this end, I will once again be teaching workshops in coastal communities in order to increase awareness of and compassion for

the plight of the sea and its creatures,” she says. One board member of the Camosun College Student Society (CCSS) found out about Herberger’s journey through the Camosun Students for Environmental Awareness committee and decided to let other students know about it. “I am promoting her cause because I think that protecting our oceans is something that is not taken seriously enough. Most people don’t know how important oceans are to human life,” says Roxanne Smillie, CCSS Lansdowne Director. By completing this swim, Herberger hopes to create an awareness that the oceans and marine life are extremely important and need to be taken care of and protected. “I hope that Renate’s swim will cause even more awareness to the issues revolving around our oceans and why it’s so important to take care of them,” says Smillie. Herberger is currently in Costa Rica beginning her journey. For more information, go to costaricamermaid.net

January 21, 2009

Train your brain to reduce exam strain

Photo: Courtney Broughton

Breanna Carey Contributing Writer

It’s true what they say when it comes to memory—use it or lose it. Students are getting back into the swing of things this semester, which is why they need some mental support. People can improve their memory and retain capacity in a number of ways. Memory is very similar to exercise; if the brain is nurtured and properly utilized, it will remain strong and healthy. According to Darryl Ainsley of Camosun’s Learning Skills department, success with memory has three different stages— understanding, organization, and repetition.

“One of the best ways to learn something is to teach it to others.” Stephen Bishop Camosun College

“First, you must understand information,” says Ainsley. “We’re poor at learning disconnected information, so it is key that we know when we understand something.” This is why teachers demand students pay attention in class and take notes, so they actually acquire the learning material. Concentration for extended periods of time allows the mind to store information in the long term so it can be recalled during an exam. Before the exam, it’s very important to keep track of the material in an organized way. “Information is much easier to recall if it’s organized,” says Ainsley. “Flow charts, concept maps, and course outlines are all examples of organized information.” Finally, repetition and rehearsal is the only way to successfully recall information. But Ainsley suggests

avoiding memory tricks. “Students should only sparingly utilize associative devices such as mnemonics, songs, and creative sentences,” he says. Ainsley also suggests when people prepare for exams they should mimic what they actually have to do on the test. Camosun Nursing Chair Stephen Bishop says knowing material well enough to teach it to other students is an excellent way to learn. And Ainsley agrees. “Recognition is not enough; to look at the material and think that you know something doesn’t mean you do,” he says. “One of my recommendations to students is that they study in small groups and take responsibility for teaching sections of a course to their partners.” Students can pick up information more easily if it’s related to something they already know, says Bishop. “The benefit to the ‘teacher’ is that they have to really learn the material and think about how to present it creatively,” says Bishop. “The benefit to the ‘students’ is that they have the material presented differently than was done in class.” Bishop also admits a large portion of successful studying depends on whether or not fellow students will do their work well and present the material accurately and effectively. In order for the brain to remember, it has to travel a pattern that has been created. The more often that path is utilized, the stronger it is. Naturally, regular exercise and a proper diet help feed your mind so your brain performs regular functions at ease. And since students have many different styles of learning, there’s no perfect universal technique. Finding a learning style that suits you, whether it’s flash cards, goofy acronyms, or studying with a friend, will make recollection that much easier.

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SPORTS

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Camosun’s sports teams all over the spectrum a few factors caused Justice to be ineligible. “A number of things had to come through in order for Maceio to come play for us,” says Price. “He needed a student VISA, funding from his government, and funding from us. All three of those things never came through, and as much as I’d like to see him here, it just didn’t work out.”

Guy Alaimo Staff Writer

After defeating rivals Vancouver Island University (VIU) 61–55 on Jan. 10, the Camosun Chargers women’s basketball team is the number one ranked squad in the country. They slipped past Fredericton’s St. Thomas University, who has a 9–0 record but a weaker point differential than the Chargers. So far the Chargers women have scored 522, only allowing 302. The undefeated Chargers had a 7–0 record going into their next game against the number two ranked in the province (and eighth in the country) Capilano College Blues on Jan. 16. Meanwhile, the men’s basketball team is searching for answers after being destroyed by the number one ranked VIU Mariners, 81–48, on Jan. 10, their record falling to 1–6. Making matters worse, new recruit Maceio Justice, out of Detroit, Michigan, won’t be playing in a Chargers uniform this semester, despite what was reported in Nexus last issue. According to Bonita Joe, Camosun’s recreation and athletics assistant, a “glitch” in Justice’s registration process is the cause. Head coach Craig Price says

“We’re not at all unhappy with where we’re at and where we can go from here.” Dan Casey Camosun Chargers

One bright spot for the men is the play of forward Jeff Krawetz, who continued his stellar season with 19 points against VIU. But the men’s squad needed to work hard in practice before their game on Jan. 16, when they hosted the Capilano Blues at PISE. The Blues were ranked third in the province with a 4–3 record, while the Chargers were ranked second last, and were already six

points out of a playoff spot, meaning they would have to win every game and hope for the best if they had any hope of playing in the postseason. The men and women’s basketball teams both played against Capilano at PISE on Jan. 16. Results were not available by press time. In volleyball land, it’s the same story for the women’s team, who can’t seem to get anything going, getting absolutely obliterated by VIU on Jan. 9, 25–15, 25–7, 25–17, while watching their record fall to 2–6. Laura Ouillete continues to be the only player on the team showing any signs of promise, scoring seven kills and seven digs in last week’s loss. “We’ll find and take the positives from tonight and get back to work to prepare for another pair of important matches against Capilano University and Douglas College,” says Ouillete. Meanwhile, winning close games is not the mantra for this year’s edition of the Chargers men’s volleyball team, as they dropped another nail-biter to VIU, 20–25, 25–23, 25–22, 23–25, and 15–13. “We just lost by two points to the number one team in the country and we believe we still have room to

Photo: Samantha Doney

Camosun’s Aleks Saddlemeyer and Chris Abra block an opponent’s spike.

improve, so we’re not at all unhappy with where we’re at and where we can go from here,” says assistant coach Dan Casey. With the loss, the team drops to 4–4 on the season, but still retains their fifth place standing, after sixth place Capilano lost their recent games. Both the men and women’s

teams played their next games in Vancouver vs. Capilano College on Jan. 16. Results were not available by press time. The last time the Chargers played against Capilano was in week one of the season. The men lost in a close, five-set match, while the women lost quite easily in three sets.

Chargers to watch for me. Making the playoffs in my first year and winning the league in the second year was really exciting, as well as traveling to Prince George for the provincials last year. Even though we were disappointed about the second place finish, it gives us something to work towards this year.

Ultimately, my goal for this season is to win nationals. But there are some steps to be taken to get there—we need to beat the top teams during league play this semester and work hard to keep improving.

How are you feeling this year with some new players, some injured players, and a new gym?

I am enjoying being a leader. I am attacking better than I ever have and I am really enjoying that. I think better highlights are yet to come . . . at nationals, knock on wood.

The thing that makes us different from the other teams in the league is the depth we have on this team, and the new players have definitely helped. They add to the talent we have and they are also fun to be around. We have had a bunch of injuries in the first half of this season, but hopefully we can get everyone healthy and back for the second half. It is nice to finally get our own home gym! PISE is an excellent facility.

Kendall Allen—#14

Team: Women’s basketball Year: 3 Position: Wing/Point Height: 5’ 8” Hometown: Victoria High school: Lambrick Park Camosun program: Associate Arts

What is your role on the team? Because it’s my third year, I feel like I can bring some experience to the team by knowing what to expect. How is it looking for the playoffs?

What are your personal goals this year? To contribute to the team’s goals of winning the provincials and making it to the national championships! Highlights so far in a Chargers uniform? Being a part of the Camosun women’s basketball team’s turnaround has been a big highlight for

By Samantha Doney

We have a challenging second half of the season coming up, with a lot of tough teams to play, but we have been working really hard over the winter break, so that should help us while we work towards the playoffs.

Highlights so far in a Chargers uniform?

How are you feeling this year with some new players and a new gym?

Brent Hall—#5

Team: Men’s basketball Year: 4 Position: Right side Height: 6’ 1” Hometown: Red Deer, AB Camosun program: Exercise/Wellness What are your personal goals this year? I strive to continually better every aspect of my game. I want to become a better leader and help my teammates reach their potential. I want to be a big part of determining the level of success that we have this season. Another big goal of mine is to excel in my classes. What are your team goals?

Most of the younger players are not reaching their potential yet. Some of them were lacking work ethic early in the season, but they are coming along as they adjust to the level of play. The new gym is fantastic. It took a while for us to get in there, but it was worth the wait. What is your role on the team? My role on the team is to provide a lot of leadership and energy, and to put the ball on the floor when we need a point. How is it looking for the playoffs? We need to work hard to beat the teams in league play in order to be seeded well going into provincials. I believe we can win nationals, but in BC we contend with many of the best teams in the country. There’s only room for one or two of us to go to nationals, so we need to play well. We’re good enough to win it all and we’re climbing the leader board.

Chargers to watch for is written by Samantha Doney, a second-year Sport Management student and Sport Information and Promotions Intern for Camosun Chargers Athletics. Check out the new Chargers blog at camosunchargers.blogspot.com

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January 21, 2009

Cameras offer powerful tool for Pale

Israeli and Palestinian filmmakers have combined forces to produce an e documentary channel and empower Hebron citizens pacintHE MattaR

ryErSoN FrEE PrESS (ryErSoN uNIVErSIty)

TORONTO (CUP)—It’s a city of ghosts.

Empty streets. Stores boarded shut. Vacant apartment buildings. This is Hebron, a city in Israel’s occupied territories. Home to about 166,000 Palestinians and 800 Jewish settlers, what was once a bustling downtown shopping district is now a lifeless reminder of the violence and desperation that grips the second largest Palestinian city in the West Bank. “Hebron is the utter failure of the concept of co-existence,” said Mich’ael Zupraner, 27, an Israeli who participated in Voices Forward, a Toronto festival about life in Palestine and Israel. This year’s theme was Hebron: In the Eye of the Storm. The festival included screenings of over a dozen films, musical performances, book launches, readings, multimedia presentations, and discussions. The festival’s focus surrounded the reality of life in Hebron, the only city in the West Bank that has a Jewish settlement in its midst, and the only city where Jews and Palestinians share adjacent house walls. “If you want the worst possible scenario for what could happen in the rest of the country, eventually, God forbid, Hebron is that,” says Zupraner at the festival. Unfortunately, Zupraner isn’t exaggerating. A single horizontal line divides the city of Hebron, known as El-Khalil in Arabic, into two sections—H1 is home to most of the Palestinian population and under Palestinian jurisdiction; and H2 is home to Jewish settlers and is controlled by the Israeli government. For Palestinians who live in H2, this means being forbidden from walking or driving on main roads, forced to climb ladders to enter their homes from the rooftops because Israeli soldiers have welded their front doors shut, and being prohibited from leaving home except for a few short hours a week to buy groceries and other necessities when Israeli soldiers impose a curfew. One such curfew lasted 500 days between 2002 and 2003. Zupraner gathered with Palestinian Issa Amro at XEXE Gallery to present their project—the creation of an experimental documentary channel that broadcasts out of Hebron. This is no typical television channel. Zupraner and Amro distribute video cameras to Palestinian families living in hot spots—near Jewish settlements or Israeli military checkpoints—so they can document their lives and highlight the human rights violations that occur in their surroundings. The footage from these cameras is then collected by the two of them, edited, and broadcast over the Internet at www.heb2.tv The project, run in collaboration with an Israeli human rights organization, B’Tselem, has been in effect for a year and a half. It offers a perspective on life in Hebron that’s rarely, if ever, shown elsewhere. “The project started from giving out cameras to ordinary people,” explains Zupraner in the small, brightly lit gallery, before the audience of 19 people arrived. “Most of them have never had a video camera, never used one, and the kind of footage you get back is very strange sorts of home movies because people will use the camera, and we encourage them to use the camera, not only to film human rights violations, but to also film their daily lives.” “That means that we get back video tapes that have, say, a wedding, a family celebration, and then the tape jumps to, let’s say, soldiers searching the house or some kind of confrontation with settlers, and then the tape will jump back to baby pictures,” he says. “And so this kind of reality where this is daily life, where these things can happen, right after the other, almost, is what kind of launched the idea for the project.” The project has the potential to cross over political borders, according to Amro and Zupraner.

“We can use the cameras not only to document human rights violations, but also to try to show what life is like in a place like Hebron, which has a very specific and extreme situation, but that’s never really shown elsewhere, and that’s impossible to access from the outside,” says Zupraner. Amro further explains the reasons why life in Hebron is so different from life everywhere else. “The settlers who are living inside Hebron are the most radical, the most fanatic settlers in the whole strip,” he says. “And they have this ideology where they want to transfer all the Arabs out of Hebron. They look at it as their land, and believe that the Arabs don’t have any rights to stay there.” This is a recipe for disaster. “It’s come to the point where Jews and Arabs are separated to such a degree that the downtown area has become a ghost town,” says Zupraner, who visited Hebron two years ago for the first time and was struck right away by what he saw.

y not onl s a r e the cam hts e s u n a ig “We c uman r h t n e to show m y u r c t o o d t o to but als , s n e like c o i a t l a p l o a i v s like in very specific i e f i l t wha ’s h has a c i h w , ut that b , n o i t Hebron a me situ e r t where, x e e s l e n and lly show a access e r o r t e e l b nev i ss ’s impo t a h t d an side.” t u NER o e h Z U P R A er L E A from t ’ H mak MIC Israeli

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“The logic of what’s happening in Hebron, the logic that the Israeli army is imposing and the way it’s dividing the city, the way it’s preventing Palestinians from using the main roads where Jews are . . . that logic is basically saying that Jews and Arabs can’t live together, and if they do, the result is this kind of ghost town, which is what the downtown area of Hebron has become,” says Zupraner. For him, it was that feeling that prompted the idea for the project. “It’s like walking on the moon,” he says slowly. Footage from www.heb2.tv made headlines all over the world in the summer of 2006, when a particularly troubling incident took place with the Palestinian Abu Ayesha family, whose house has a fence around it to protect them from bottles and stones that were sometimes hurled at them by neighbouring settlers. They had frequently been attacked by settlers, but were always unable to prove this to police, who were sympathetic to the Israelis. That is, until they were provided with a video camera. “One major incident involved a neighbouring settler woman by the name of Yif’at Alkobi,” recalls Zupraner. “One early summer day, there was an argument with her outside their house, and she forced the family back into the house yelling at them, ‘Go back into your cage!’” “The settler woman continued to curse at the camera calling them—these two daughters and their mother—

whores,” continues Zupraner. Being that both women involved in the altercation were religious women, this kind of exchange was very disturbing to watch once it made its way to Israeli television. “People were horrified. Israelis were horrified, I think because for the first time they saw these things from the eye of the Palestinian. Not a journalist, not an Israeli, but you’re seeing it as a Palestinian, having someone curse at you and at the camera, directly into the lens, with such conviction . . . It shook people,” he says. “It was shown internationally, all over the world . . .” The tape had an effect. “It started a committee in the Israeli parliament, the Israeli prime minister said he was ashamed of what he saw, Condoleeza Rice mentioned this video clip. This coming out of a 14 year-old Palestinian girl with a cheap video camera. So that kind of shook things up and helped the project along,” says Zupraner. Currently, there are 150 cameras in the West Bank and 25 in Hebron City, and Zupraner and Amro move the cameras around based on the levels of violence in certain areas and families’ willingness to take part in the project. Its effects, says Amro, are priceless. “The families, before the cameras, they were acting in a violent way, you know, to throw back stones,” he says. “They had nothing to react with. But with the cameras, on they started believing in the effect of the camera.” “We consider it is a non-violent tool to react to the violence of the settlers,” says Amro. “The people now, w anytime there’s any violence, even to their neighbours, ho they take the camera, they pull it out and they just start ac filming. And they don’t give in to their emotions, they se just keep filming, not fighting. It’s a very good method th of empowering the society.” Zupraner agrees. “Kids throwing back stones do on so out of frustration, because you’re not gonna change yo anything,” he says. “When you can’t do anything else, gr you throw stones. But the moment you have a camera and you have a sense that that can be helpful, that that wo could provide evidence. And cameras deter people, most “H people, from doing anything too stupid.” The project is also causing changes in the Israeli side W Is of town. “Settler violence has gone down, because now they realize a Palestinian 10 year-old who’s filming you with an their video camera, that’s something that can be shown

An endless strugg

A simple guide to the Isra BREnDan KERgin StAFF WrItEr

It’s in the news again. Palestine and Israel are not getting along. they have a dispute over who should live on a tiny piece of land, the gaza Strip, and a larger chunk called the West bank. An important note here is that the two Palestinian zones are not connected. though the entire area is small by Canadian standards, Israel has effectively blocked off both sections. this has created a little mini-nation inside Israel, though both the West bank and gaza Strip border other countries. the current conflict is based around the gaza Strip, a slice of land on the Mediterranean Sea

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on their own national television,” says Zupraner. “The moment that you’re aware that you’re being watched, forget by the Palestinians, but by your own home front, you’re aware that you’re responsible, you’re accountable for your actions, to your own society and that serves as a check and a balance to people,” he says. “Because you’re not in the West Bank, you’re not in the middle of nowhere outside of your society where no do one can really see you. No. Your parents will see what nge you’re doing. Your family. Your friends. And that has a else, great effect,” says Zupraner. For Zupraner and Amro, it’s no big deal that they are era hat working side-by-side, as Israeli and Palestinian. “I’m using his privileges as an Israeli,” laughs Amro. most “He has an army protecting him. But we’re close friends. ide We don’t feel any difference between Palestinian and Israeli.” Amro then pulls up his sleeve, nodding at Zupraner hey with and smiling, pointing to his wrist. “And I think his blood is red, like mine.” wn

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surrounded by Israel, except for a small border with Egypt on the southern tip. Even that border is monitored by the Israeli army. this has effectively cut the Palestinian people off from the rest of the world unless they have the right documentation and rock-solid nerves. this violence is nothing new. the area has been one of the most blood-soaked regions throughout human development. Israel is the current country in control of land which three major religions—Christianity, Islam, and Judaism—consider extremely important. While this region was the target location of the Crusades almost a millennia ago, Christians have pulled out of the region, military-wise.

After World War II the region was unstable with some borders unclear. Jewish people were looking for a land of their own after the Holocaust in germany. European countries held most of the power in the Middle East as conquerors or allies, helping to determine the arbitrary borders. Except the area was already being lived in with traditional boundaries. An agreement was struck with the Palestinians already living on the land to split it with the refugees founding Israel. In the end, after much conflict and debate, Israel was created on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea, included Jerusalem, the red Sea port of Eilat, and bordered Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, and Egypt.

In other words, it’s right in the middle of the Middle East with important trade routes and religious centres. Since the middle of the 20th century, it’s been a contentious issue as to who gets to live where. the uN has tried declaring peace and safe zones, but the neighbours aren’t quite seeing eye to eye. Egypt has backed off after fighting a lot in the ’50s and ’60s and has a relatively peaceful relationship. Syria, who is quiet right now, had taken issue with the Jewish state, but Lebanon, with Hezbollah as a major influence, often sends rockets into Israel. but the organizations causing the most difficulties are the militant groups like Hamas. Many Muslim extremists can be found in the region and Pales-

tine is a hotbed for so-called “freedom fighters.” Since Israel came into power they have had a varied relationship with these groups, from an unstable peace, especially when Palestinian leader yasser Arafat was around, to military occupation and open ground battles, such as now. the unrest shows no signs of stopping. Part-time peace accords are often discussed and sometimes signed, but so far no long-term deal has been agreed to, leaving battle as an option every few years. With global pressure, the Israeli/Palestinian conflict flares up every so often, instead of constantly burning. but, since time immemorial, this region has always been a battleground.

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January 21, 2009

Art crawl celebrates Aboriginals KEltiE laRtER CoNtrIbutINg WrItEr

After a very successful first year, Victoria will once again be host to the second annual Aboriginal Art Crawl in March. The crawl will be showing at different galleries from March 5–18, with a gala opening night and gallery walk on March 13. “The crawl is a celebration of the diversity and aesthetics of aboriginal contemporary art,” says facilitator Marlaina Buch. The gala will mark the opening of the displays with the artists present, as well as some live presentations and performance-based shows. Also, the Community Arts Council of Greater Victoria (CACGV) will also be hosting an accompanying film series, presented by Media-Net, at 7 pm. Submissions for the screening will be accepted until Jan. 31. This year’s crawl will feature many returning artists, as well as some new talent from both Victoria and the mainland. Buch and co-facilitator Juli Steemson were inspired to create the crawl last year when some friends from the local Aboriginal community expressed they had been having a hard time convincing galleries to show their work. Buch and Steemson felt they could help bridge the professional gap between the galleries and their friends, as well as create an event where Victoria residents would have the opportunity to connect with Aboriginal artists in their communities and celebrate their art and culture.

Cara-Lyn Morgan’s Elevator, in acrylic and beeswax on canvas.

“[The crawl] fosters professional and personal dialogue among artists, curators, galleries, and the public with the intention of sustaining genuine understanding and relationship over time,” says Buch. This year, the crawl has come up against a few obstacles, one of which has been finding space for the artists to show their work. “[There are] concerns from curators that they are being asked to host a specifically identity-based project,” says Buch. Although some local galleries like the Fifty-Fifty Arts Collective, the Eagle Feather Gallery, Alcheringa Gallery, and the CACGV have happily agreed to be part of the event, organizers are still waiting to hear back from some other venues and are expecting to be working with some unconventional spaces. “Full exhibition schedules and strained resources at small, artist-run centres have contributed to difficulties in securing show spaces,” says Buch.

Although the roster is quickly being filled, those wishing to be included in the show, either as visual or performing artists, can contact [email protected] before the submissions deadline of Feb. 10. Media-Net is also accepting submissions for the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria’s show Assume Nothing: New Social Practice. Short film and video works of up to 10 minutes about interesting people from the community will be accepted. Inspiration for the project comes from Harrell Fletcher’s website, Some People (www.somepeople. com). Deadline for submissions is March 15 with the screening taking place April 30.

Aboriginal Art Crawl March 5–18 (gala on March 13 at 6:30 pm) At various galleries, free www.media-net.bc.ca

Date: February 2 - 5 Time: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm Place: Fisher Building Foyer *One $1,500 scholarship awarded during the 2009 winter semester. Entry forms must be accurately completed. Eligibility limited to post-secondary students currently enrolled at participating campuses.

ArtS

[email protected]

Noise Addict

“Black” is the new “Wolf” MicHaEl Duncan CoNtrIbutINg WrItEr

From Wolf Parade to Superwolf, and to the now-seemingly extinct Wolfmother, the packs of bands with the world wolf in their names were everywhere. But recently, the colour black has seen resurgence in many band names. So with black back behind so many bands, here are three distinguished bands with the darkest shade in their names. The Black Keys (myspace.com/ theblackkeys) are the blues-rock duo of Patrick Carney (drums) and Dan Auerbach (guitar) who came out of Akron, Ohio in 2002 with their first album, The Big Come Up. The Black Keys Since then they have released six albums, their most recent album be- fuzz-tone guitars, extended jaming Attack and Release. This latest ming, etc. With their latest album, recording has them expanding In the Future, the Vancouver band, from their previous basics of self- fronted by lead singer/guitarist produced, fuzz-riffing blues tracks Stephen McBean, maintains a and it features full-time production rambling fervor throughout the and added organ, banjo, and piano recording in place of the strung-out instrumentals. From the opening monotony of many psychedelic track, “All You Ever Wanted,” with jam bands. The album’s beginning its whirling organ climax, to the track is the appropriately titled eerie guitar lines of “Lies,” and “Stormy High,” led by a heavy guitar the final track, “Things Ain’t Like and drum combination. Among They Used to Be,” the Black Keys other notable tracks, there’s the stay true to their blues roots while acoustic and falsetto sung “Stay Free,” as well as the album’s closer, fleshing out an original sound. Black Mountain (myspace. “Bright Lights,” a 16-minute odyscom/blackmountain) has the es- sey, which, like the album itself, sential sounds for a ’70s psychedelic strikes at quiet and chaotic at all riff-rock band, i.e. layered organs, the right times.

CoNtrIbutINg WrItEr

The Black Lips (myspace.com/ theblacklips) are often referred to as one of the hardest working bands. Many styles are encompassed in their music, including blues, punk, country, and surf, all of which is combined with their high-energy garage vibe. The sounds have been slightly refined on the newest album, Good Bad Not Evil, but only for the better. “Bad Kids” is a song featured midway though the album with an instant hook and, alongside the re-recorded “Cold Hands” and the boisterous “Veni Vidi Vici,” sounds as relentless as is it refreshing. Look out for the next Black Lips album, 200 Million Thousand, dropping in mid-February.

★★★★★ MicHaEl BRaR CoNtrIbutINg WrItEr

★★★★★ sHanE scott-tRavis CoNtrIbutINg WrItEr

At the crux of Doubt, the brilliant new film by John Patrick Shanley, are accusations of child molestation at a Catholic elementary school. It’s 1964 and Sister Aloysius (Meryl Streep in top form) suspects Father Flynn (the brilliant Philip Seymour Hoffman) of having done the unthinkable to a young African American student. Holding her own against these acting juggernauts is the very impressive Amy Adams (Junebug) as Sister James, a well-meaning but naive teacher caught in the middle. At first, the film’s characters seem more like caricatures and clichés than real people, but as the plot develops, so do they. Shanley advances the story with a deft hand

worthy of Hitchcock as Doubt shifts into a subtle thriller. Adapted from Shanley’s Pulitzer and Tony-winning play, this film graciously sidesteps theatrical trappings to become a truly cinematic experience. With the brilliant cinematographer Roger Deakins (No Country for Old Men) at his side, Shanley deeply embeds the camera and totally affects our responses to what we see. And what do we see? There’s uncertainty at every turn. But there must be uncertainty in a film that looks at the relativity of truth, and the subjectivity that goes with it. The camera follows the characters, but also goes beyond them— suggesting the real-time sympathy of an observer and a supernatural foresight of when and where. And the ambiguity of what ultimately transpires will have you guessing and debating for quite some time. Doubt is a small masterpiece and a stunning success.

Love. . . what is it good for?

JoEl WitHERington

Slumdog Millionaire

Doubt

Curtain Call

India boasts one of the world’s largest populations, at over one billion people. Naturally, this means India also has one of the world’s largest populations of movie fans and, as such, leads the world in films produced on a yearly basis. To be frank though, Bollywood seems to adhere to the “quantity over quality” credo, resulting in thousands of bad movies being circulated, and me becoming exceptionally gun-shy around them. Slumdog Millionaire didn’t necessarily change my opinion of Bollywood cinema, but it did prove that foreigners are capable of making Indian films as well as anyone else, as long as they are willing to fully commit themselves to capturing the essence of the country and its people. The narrative focuses on young Jamal, a former slumdog, as he manages to become a contestant on India’s version of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? The story of how he actually gets to the hotseat, however, is a complex and emotional rollercoaster ride through time and memory. Slumdog Millionaire is an Oscar-calibre triumph truly deserving of all the hype and acclaim it’s receiving.

11

“Exclusive rights isn’t love—it’s colonization,” is a quote from the Belfry Theatre’s new play The Real Thing. The play is a deep exploration into honesty, love, loyalty, and artistic creation. The Real Thing is the first play to be produced at the Belfry Theatre from the Czechoslovakia-born playwright, Tom Stoppard. Stoppard has written many successful plays; including Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead, Shakespeare in Love, and Every Good Boy Deserves Favour. His plays try to look at the different point of view on various situations. Stoppard has always been an advocate of freedom of speech and the themes of his plays have often been controversial in different parts of the world. This play isn’t just a love story, it also examines the role of a playwright, and what makes a good artist. The Real Thing is rumoured to

be Stoppard’s reply to criticisms that his plays lack an emotional context. This play definitely plucks your heartstrings. The Real Thing follows the relationship of Henry and Annie as they leave their former lovers, and work on building a lasting relationship together. Male and female perspectives on fidelity and commitment are explored through the ups and downs of Annie and Henry’s relationship. This is not your traditional romantic play but Henry says it best, “I love love. I love being a lover and I love being one.” The Real Thing has a beautiful changing set design including scenes from the character’s homes and even a train car. The music is diverse and wonderful, from classical symphony to oldies rock, lots of songs about love—surprise, surprise. The play runs until the day after Valentines Day. It is an ideal occasion for more mature couples who want to look at the truth of devotion and commitment, not star-struck lovers caught up in the excitement of a new relationship; an entertaining play to celebrate an anniversary, not a first date.

The Real Thing Until Feb.15, 8pm Belfry Theatre www.belfry.bc.ca

Sex, drugs, and a machete Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story

Starring: John C . Re i l l y, Ti m Meadows, Kristen Wiig Runtime: 96 minutes What can be said about Dewey Cox? Quite a lot, apparently, but the real question is, is it all worth listening to? Well, not really. Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story is a frenzied display of the life of Dewey Cox (John C. Reilly), as remembered by the old and retired Cox himself. After years of drug abuse, Cox suffers some serious damage to a brain that was likely off-kilter to begin with, and so his story unfolds with an extreme exaggeration that loses interest about halfway through. The film starts off in a bizarre way. Cox has a life-changing conversation with the top half of his brother, whom he has just sliced in half with a machete. Dewey then vows to be everything his very talented brother could have been, had he not been put on the chopping block. But with his father constantly reminding him “the wrong kid died,” he decides he can never make it big with his parents holding him back. So Dewey flees the clutches of his unsupportive parents only to find himself in the clutches of

an unsupportive wife, who kindly reminds him every day he’ll never make it. But somehow he does make it. From here, the movie just gets stranger and the characters madder, until every possible clichéd downfall of a rock star is not only reached, but pushed beyond the extreme to come crashing down somewhere between pathetic and absurd. About an hour in, when Cox becomes an unemployed hippie running around town in his tightywhiteys, this Columbia Pictures flick officially declares itself a bust. But the failure can’t be blamed on the actors, who do a surprisingly believable job at being the world’s thickest individuals. Admittedly, there’s some really funny content hidden amongst all the crap, but Walk Hard goes in directions only someone incredibly stoned could take it. It’s an unfortunate disappointment, because what could have been a strange yet successful musical comedy is taken too far. Oh, and the extended edition— just 25 more minutes of stupid.

Ratings Complete disaster . . . . . . . . . . . . . Unfortunate malfunction. . . . . . . . A solid stand. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Freakin’ fabulous . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

ArtS

12

January 21, 2009

Rock

Arena

toya gRiEvE CoNtrIbutINg WrItEr

Got ’til It’s Gone By Larry Duplechan (Arsenal Pulp Press) Got ’til It’s Gone is a supposed romantic comedy, but this novel certainly isn’t comedic. Romantic? Maybe, but it’s definitely rated R. If graphic, homosexual lovemaking isn’t your bag, this novel isn’t recommended. The book takes place in LA before, during, and after the South Asian tsunami and Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Both of these events are used as metaphors for the life-altering trials that affect author Larry Duplechan’s alter-ego, Johnnie Ray Rousseau.

Got ’til It’s Gone is Duplechan’s fourth book following the life of Rousseau, a promiscuous, black, 48-year-old homosexual who is deacon at the First Assembly of Love Church. In the tsunami of Rousseau’s life his mother is hit with the unfortunate diagnosis of a growing brain tumor, definitely a somber start to the novel. Continuing along, Rousseau watches his loved ones around him, most of them HIV-positive, become either sick or die. He reflects on people he’s lost and tells their stories, including those of his late husband and father. See, it’s clear this novel falls short of comedic. Despite his promiscuous nature and refusal to fall in love again, Rousseau does find romance amongst all the pain. His lover turns out to be a former meth addict/call boy/ porno star named Joe Callahan, who is also HIV-positive. Rousseau’s life is stable until his “hurricane” arrives, introducing knowledge of an unknown biological father, domestic troubles, a surprising love affair, death, and eventually an engagement. Got ’til It’s Gone provides an insight in to experiences most people won’t encounter, and gives the reader a realistic depiction of the homosexual lifestyle of the last 30 years. Duplechan has created a piece that provides a broader cultural perspective and understanding.

sHannon gRaHaM CoNtrIbutINg WrItEr

Scrapbook of My Years as a Zealot By Nicole Markotic (Arsenal Pulp Press) This semi-autobiographical novel covers the usual trials of childhood (weird parents, not fitting in, boys, woe), with the added twist of the female star being a devout Mormon in a family that doesn’t do religion. The young heroine, feeling stifled by her godless family, rebels by opting for the even more rigid lifestyle of a Latter Day Saint. This “phase,” as her parents consider it, lasts all the way to her late teens, when she meets a boy, and it becomes time to throw it by the wayside.

The boy isn’t worth much, but he seems to be a vehicle for a change that was coming anyway. She becomes as hardcore an atheist as she was a Mormon. The viewpoint shifts smoothly throughout the book between the religious youth and the self-described “heathen” adult. Aimed at a thoughtful, and probably female, reader, this story gives us a look at the life of a Canadian youth prison guard, the inside of a frigid relationship, and the difference between wonky childhood friends and real adult friends. If you’re looking for a plot, it won’t be found here, but there are many stories, each showing a different facet of a fascinating life. The appeal lies in the glimpse at someone else’s “normal.” Situations the characters dismiss as everyday occurrences seem profoundly odd to someone who hasn’t grown up that way—for instance, amid an indoor jungle of potted plants. Toward the end, there’s a story hinted at throughout the book—a full account of what happened to the hero’s aunt in Nazi Germany. It’s both disturbing and enlightening to read, but one has to wonder why it was tacked on at the end like a bunch of racing stripes on a Honda Civic. With a few laughs, some good adventures, and a friendly cast, My Years as a Zealot is by no means a waste of time.

Sam Roberts

McPherson Playhouse, Jan. 8

MicHaEl Duncan CoNtrIbutINg WrItEr

Are the golden years under attack? In Sam roberts’s eyes they are, and judging by his recent performance in Victoria he’s out to hunt them down. the hour-and-a-half set was no halfbaked exercise, but the culmination of a now-older roberts fighting for the integrity of a rock ‘n’ roll that nears extinction. the set opened with the title track of his latest album, Love at the End of the World, and rumbled on to include music from all of his major recordings. there were the obvious crowd-pleasers throughout with hits like “Hard road,” “bridge to Nowhere,” and “brother Down.” the latter song featured saxophone, an instrument that was also played later in the set. A few missteps did occur during the concert, like mistiming and gear glitches, but that’s no surprise considering this is the band’s first gig on a cross-Canada tour. there was even an Eric Clapton moment via “the Last Waltz” where roberts’ guitar strap failed him. the crowd may have also been slow at first in taking to the new material, such as “up Sister” and “Lions of the kalahari,” but the songs kept on and the crowd seemed to get in tune with robert’s feverish energy that accompanied every track. Finishing the show was an extensive, five-song encore that included the piano blues-inspired “Detroit ’67” and was rounded out by the hallucinatory jam, “Mind Flood.” the golden years may well be under attack, but roberts has hedged all his bets on taking them back.

COLUMNS

[email protected]

By Keltie Larter

Sex Toys

13

GIVING IT UP: old habits di By Kelly Marion

hard

The other day, a girlfriend asked me if I would go with her to a sex shop and help her pick out her first toy. That might seem like a strange thing to ask a friend (“Excuse me, but could you please help me choose a prosthetic penis so I can masturbate with it later?”), but having previously worked at sex shops, it wasn’t my first time helping out a first-timer. I was surprised at how nervous she was and how little she knew about the toys. It got me thinking a lot of people out there might be yearning for a good sex aid, but just need a little help. Ladies have the widest range of sex toys to choose from. Dildos are penis prosthetics with no vibration, good for those lucky ladies who can reach orgasm through simple penetration. Then there are vibrating dildos, good for clitoral stimulation or penetration, but not at the same time. Bullets are small, spherical vibrators that are great for clitoral stimulation and perfect to use on your own or with a partner. There are also G-spot vibrators, usually a bit slimmer than regular vibrators, but curved upwards and pointier at the head for precise stimulation. And there’s my favorite toy, the dual-action vibrator dildos with clit stimulators. They simultaneously provide penetration, clitoral stimulation, and G-spot action, all while rotating. Seriously girls, this one’s sure to put a smile on your face. The selection for guys is a little more limited, but worth checking out. There are three main categories of toys for boys. Prosthetic vaginas, called pocket pussies, are soft plastic or silicone tubes shaped like different parts of the female anatomy. The funniest one is Titty Blow, a seductive pair of lips set on top of a big pair of breasts with a hole in the middle. Similar to pocket pussies are toys called slabs. Yep, that’s right, slabs. Just like a piece of meat. Bigger than a pocket pussy, they allow the user to mount the toy instead of just using hand motions to masturbate. Picture that scene from American Pie where Jason Biggs tries to hump a pie on his kitchen counter. And, of course, there are also a wide variety of love dolls ranging in quality and price. For those of you who are part of a couple (or a threesome), a trip to the toy store could be just what the doctor ordered to spice up an evening! The most popular toy for couples is called the Erection Master, a silicone cock ring with a strategically placed vibrating nodule to allow for hands-free clitoral stimulation during penetration sex. And, because a cock ring restricts blood flow to the penis, it gives men more control over their orgasms. But, remember, the most intimate sexual relationship you’ll ever have in your life is the one you enjoy with yourself. So, next time you’re in the mood, consider taking a trip to your local pleasure provider and let the good times roll, or pulsate, or vibrate. Go forth, fellow students, and masturbate!

A Anything

By Breanna Carey

Q: A:

When I go out on dates I pretend I’m someone I’m not, either out of lack of self-esteem or confidence. I’ve often attracted the wrong type of person. Now I know what I want in a partner, but how do I make this happen? I can understand why you put up a front while on the dating scene. It’s your protective seal to prevent you from getting hurt. But if you aren’t being true to yourself, then how can you expect to develop something with a person who likes you for who you are? People aren’t mind-readers; during the first impression, especially, they take things for face value. Take this as an opportunity to be you for all the right reasons. In the future, be blunt if you must, so that you don’t look back and say, “Oh, I wish I hadn’t said that.” You’re only going to get what you want if you avoid what you know doesn’t work. By now you should have an idea of what personality types mix well with yours. Keep in mind that everyone has faults they don’t feel like sharing initially, but those faults make people who they are.

Walk, bike, save your ass Joel Witherington CSEA Member

Choosing your mode of travel has a great impact on the CSEA environment. Most of us have probably heard of the air pollution caused by motor vehicles. Car exhaust from North Americans account for a good portion of the greenhouse gases that are warming our planet, and it causes acid rain, ice cap melting, flooding, and a lot of other environmental disasters. We should be very concerned with rising sea levels in Victoria; I can see the ocean from my house and I don’t own a sailboat. We don’t have to be a part of the problem. There are a lot of ways to get around Victoria without jumping in a car and driving everywhere. Why would you want to pay all those astronomical parking fees anyways? If you don’t like walking, try something with wheels but no motor. Riding a bike or skateboard

can be a very fun way of getting around; you don’t need a license or insurance, just a helmet. You’ll be surprised at the amount of adventures you can get into while heading from one place to another. If exercise isn’t your thing, then take advantage of our wonderful public transportation system. I come from a small town that had about three buses running on five routes; Victoria’s system is far superior. It normally doesn’t take more than 30 minutes to get to any destination within the city. The best part is that you’ve already paid for a bus pass with your student fees. If you have a bike that isn’t in good shape or are looking to buy a cheap one, don’t worry, Camosun Students for Environmental Awareness (CSEA) is working to host a bike workshop on campus to get everyone riding. For more info about CSEA, visit www.camosunstudent.org/csea or e-mail camosunsea@hotmail. com

Photo: Courtney Broughton

My Right Hand The challenge

I’ve spent 22 years using my right hand for almost everything I do. I write, eat, throw, and scratch my butt with my right hand, and now, for the first time in my life, I’m attempting to rely solely on my left hand—living life the “wrong” way, if you will.

The research

The small percentage (roughly 10 percent) of lefthanded humans are, according to some studies, more likely to be schizophrenic, delinquent, or have mental disabilities. On the contrary, they’re also said to hold higher creative and sporting prowess. Both Leonardo da Vinci and Babe Ruth were lefties. These assets may be because lefties are forced to use other regions of the brain in order to function properly, as well as become adaptable to things like right-handed scissors, stick shifts, and sports equipment; after all, it’s not often you find a left-handed hockey stick at your local gym.

The rationale

Being a minority sucks; everybody knows that. While you should be thought of as something rare and unique, you’re simply labeled an oddball, facing a plethora of limitations and obstacles to overcome. Having been ignorant to this fact, and having the novelty of right-handed tools at my disposal my entire life, I decided to live life alternatively and stop using my right hand completely.

The trial

Day 1: It’s a strange feeling; like I have to think in a foreign language just to convince myself I don’t have a right hand. I’ve pretty much decided in order for this to work, I have to imagine I’ve been in a devastating accident (let’s pretend my hand was eaten by a crocodile) and am now an amputee. That’s basically how I got through the day, by playing a silly game with myself. Day 3: Today I tied my hand behind my back to avoid failing this challenge. After instinctually using my right hand for everything, it’s hard to simply tell myself “left, left” instead of using my right. Everyone at school thought I was a weirdo once again, but by now everyone in my program expects me to behave this way, having been here through all of my Giving It Up experiences. Day 6: It took me an extra 25 minutes to get ready for work this morning; two extra minutes brushing my teeth, seven eating my cereal, 11 making my lunch, two buttoning my blouse, and three tying my bloody shoes.

I’ll be damned if I’m late because of an article that isn’t even helping my GPA. Day 7: Serving isn’t an easy task as it is, but throw in restricted use of your dominant hand and you’re calling for a recipe for disaster. This was ever so apparent last night at work. I broke three plates trying to balance a tray on my left hand, got caught muttering to myself over my stupid left hand, and missed a customer’s glass completely while attempting to fill it with water. I’m just glad I don’t work in the kitchen. After a few not-so-pleasant remarks on my service, it’s no wonder my boss confronted me at the end of my shift. I had to explain to her that I’ve been out of sorts lately and even shed a little tear just to save my butt from getting fired. Unfortunately she now thinks I’ve lost my mind, switching my shifts to less busier nights until I’ve had time to “work things out.” Day 9: As I typed my paper today, I felt like I was 10 again and was still typing with one finger, the difference being I was even slower because it was my left index finger and not my right. Day 11: You know that drinking game where you can only drink with your weak hand and if someone catches you using your other hand, you have to drink? Well that’s how I feel right now; except it’s 24 hours a day . . . and I don’t have a drink, which sort of takes the fun out of the whole game and makes it more of a pain in my ass. Day 12: I failed. I quit; I just can’t hack it. If you thought hot water would be hard to give up, imagine trying to give up something attached to your own body! After slapping my wrist an endless amount of times because I kept trying to use my right hand and begging people to watch my every move, I’m calling this challenge off.

The result

Had I completed this challenge, I would still have chosen to continue being right-handed. To me lefthandedness is just plain silly, and those lefties should just convert to right-hand-ism and make retailers’ lives simple—right-handed products only. Screw the fact that three of the last four US presidents have been lefties; if George Bush Jr. can beat the odds and break the pattern then I certainly stand a chance at making it big.

Next issue

I’m giving up negative thoughts and feelings and living like a hippie, following the mantra of peace, love, and harmony.

Putting the Y back in womyn Chloe Markgraf Contributing Writer

This isn’t a typo, it’s an alteration of the word—one that enhances it, setting the stage for a new perspective of womyn in society. Womyn . . . isn’t it beautiful? I find it quite visually pleasing,–yn, like in gynecologists or synchondrosis. But, besides the asthetics of it, this spelling of the word comes loaded with socio-political connotations. As we are all aware, women have been subjugated for centuries by patriarchy. Part of the simple

alteration of this word relates to reclaiming this title. It’s acknowledging the uniqueness and individual aspect of the female gender, allowing it to stand alone, as it is, as womyn. Womyn is a statement. It says to any reader, here I am, I am a feminist, and I am disassociating myself from the traditional concept of the dominant man. Y, however, can be considered a tribute to men as it displays the Y chromosome necessary in determining the male sex, bringing the spelling of womyn from a far-radical feminist standpoint to a more

neutral supportive and egalitarian one. Although changing the spelling of a gender may seem radical, the process can be empowering. My point is, let’s take charge of this word, for it’s part of a long history of social consciousness, one that rallies men and womyn in specific ways. So if you want to discuss the spelling of this word, or simply hang out, come to the womyn’s centres, located on both campuses, in the Richmond House at Lansdowne and in Campus Centre at Interurban.

CoLuMNS

14

Talking threads

By toya gRiEvE

Worth the Trip? The battle of on and off-campus eats By Donald Kennedy and guy alaimo

Name: Joel Dampier Program: Welding Apprentice

What are you wearing? I’m wearing a red onesie with feeties! Where did you get it from? I got it for Christmas from my mom. She had to order it from Vegas because apparently it’s hard to come by a 6’ 7’’ onesie. What’s your favorite thing about it? I really like the feeties and the butt flap! Have you ever used it? What, the butt flap? Of course! That’s pretty gross . . . Yeah, but super versatile.

Name: Tyler Gibbons Program: Mechanical Engineering

PHotoS: toyA grIEVE

January 21, 2009

What’s keeping you warm this winter? My Browning jacket with a white Hurley sweater and a sweet red hat with optional earflaps. Where did you get your hat from? I stole it from a friend of mine and I’m never giving it back! What’s the favorite thing about your outfit? I really like my Hurley sweater. It’s super warm with down padding on the inside. What about your footwear? These are Circa skate shoes. They totally suck in the snow, but they look pretty sweet. Can you tell us anything else about your outfit? I think the hat says it all.

Aramark Campus Caf Lansdowne Campus Genoa Baguette $6.59 plus tax

Presentation and service

Donald: My god, the possibilities here are endless! Ever been to Subway and thought to yourself, “god, how I crave a more European sandwich!!!” Well, the Campus Caf is the place for you! get your sandwich cut into three little pieces, go sit by the fountain, and pretend you and your friends are having a delightful French Mediterranean picnic! guy: Imagine how many authentic Italian families have screamed at each other over dinner about the caf’s “genoa” sandwich. “It is a not real Italiano sandweechaaa! gaetano! I can make dis one better for you, eh?” the salami had little bite to it, but at least the provolone cheese was good. Aramark does offer pesto as a topping option, so I guess that’s a bonus over other sandwich huts.

Taste

D: Every day in high school I’d eat a salami and cheese sandwich for lunch. Sometimes I’d change it up with some primo Parmesan-fringed stuff, or really blow my mind on some black forest ham—but for the most part I was in a sandwich rut. this baguette tastes exactly the same as every sandwich I ate in high school. the only difference is now I have the foresight to get my sandwich toasted. I don’t want those asshole cucumbers turning my bread soggy later. g: the whole-wheat bun was narrower than george Harrison’s coronary artery. And the whole-wheat bun was as tasteless as that terrible joke. Maybe if Aramark stopped trying to cut corners with lame buns then I wouldn’t make terrible jokes.

Time for change in the new year cHRistopHER gillEspiE EXtErNAL AFFAIrS EXECutIVE

Happy new year and welcome back to Camosun College for 2009. I hope you’re well rested and ready to continue your educational journey. For those of you just joining us on campus, welcome! I know these will be some of the best years of your life. 2009 has the potential to be

a year of change. In May, British Columbians will head to the polls and clearly inform our government what they think of their performance over the past four years. As students, we need to ensure our voices are heard. Back in March, the provincial government announced a 2.6 percent base funding cut for every postsecondary institution in BC and the money was to be redistributed into “priority areas.”

This has left Camosun College, as well as every college and university in BC, in dire financial straits for this entire academic year. We need your help in May to tell this government what we think of these cuts. Education must become the primary issue of this next election and we’ll need your help. I hope we can count on your support. Stay tuned for our student campaign plans. Can students make a difference in 2009? Yes, we can!

The Little Piggy 1019 Fort St. Club Sandwich $6.75 plus tax

Presentation and service

D: Despite the constant staff rollover, the quality of service here is always excellent. I swear I’ve had a crush on at least half of the female staff at this place. g: there was an array of fresh desserts being showcased behind the glass that I just couldn’t help but try, especially considering they were fairly priced under two dollars. So after starting with dessert, I was pleased to find a freshly made sandwich on freshly made bread presented to me, after quickly finishing my excellent dessert.

Taste

g: I liked how they used real cooked turkey cut into fairly uneven and thick slices, placed under sweet bacon with some sort of tasty orange mayonnaise smothered on the bread. there was no denying how fresh everything was, and the fact I didn’t have to break my bank account to get good, quality food made me even happier. this was my first visit to the Little Piggy, and it won’t be my last. D: I wish girls were honey-cured. If I ever met a girl who was honey-cured; I’d know exactly what to do. First I’d let her soft aroma waft into my nostrils. As her subtle smell enveloped my nasal cavity, my desire would eventually get the better of me. Suddenly, she’d catch me daydreaming about shoving her between two pieces of fresh bakery sourdough, teaming her up with some nice, thick turkey, and then slathering her sweet, supple frame in savoury red pepper aioli. Her eyes would gaze at me knowingly, and she’d tacitly say, “It’s okay, baby, take a bite.”

And the winner is . . .

Honey-cured bacon and a revolving door of apron-ed beauties.

Verdict

No other sandwich perfectly exposes the holes in Aramark’s pricing rhetoric than the Little Piggy Club.

Camosun College is looking for your INNOVATIVE ideas to help the college become a leader in sustainability. You could win a $1,000 cash prize and a $1,500 operational budget to help make your idea a reality. Your idea could be anything *, as long as it has a positive impact on sustainabilty at Camosun College. Project submissions are due by 4 pm, March 2, 2009. Applicants must be registered Camosun students in March, 2009.

www.camosun.ca/green

*for a complete list of contest rules see:

Camosun Colleg Students for Environmental Awareness

EVENtS

[email protected]

eye on campus By Kait Cavers Wednesday Jan.21

Nexus Pizza Day two bucks a slice, unless you have the answer key to any of my midterms, or you buy me a case of beer. In which case, it’s free, pending the beer is not Pilsner, Pipers, any brand that starts with or tastes like P, and you didn’t whip up an answer key to the exams that will somehow make my multiple choice answers spell out racial slurs. 12 pm until it’s totally devoured, outside the Fisher building at Lansdowne

Thursday, Jan. 29

Pride Meeting Camosun Pride is hosting a gay pride meeting to host pride events in the Pride Lounge. So if you’ve got pride, know somebody who’s got pride, or just like saying the word pride, then come check it out! Everyone is welcome. Check out the Camosun Pride Collective on facebook, and then rSVP or request more info at pride@ camosunstudent.org

Dr. Heinz By Adrian Binakaj

and rock out . . . for charity!

Thursday, Jan.22

Employer Info Session Also known as “places I go to get free snacks.” but a lot of the time there aren’t free snacks provided, so you should probably only go check this out if you’re interested in anything to do with employment opportunities at the Ministry of transportation and Infrastructure. And if there are free snacks, you better get there a solid three minutes before I do. 12:30–1:20 pm, CbA 209, Interurban. Email employ@ camosun.bc.ca for more info.

Mondays–Thursdays

Drop-in hockey and soccer If you’re anything like me and you’ve broken your leg hopping parking meters, received several stitches after petting a swamp rat, or been recommended for several months of therapy caused from being stalked by a bear on the Juan de Fuca trail, then you know that things that take place indoors are just better. So be like me, and avoid the outdoors at all costs. Start with inside sports, and work your way up to indoor camping, canoeing, and, finally, biking through an orange pylon obstacle course (not suitable for carpeted rooms). Hockey on Mondays and Wednesdays, 7–9pm; Indoor soccer on tuesdays and thursdays, 7–9pm in young 112, Lansdowne. Info: 250–370–3602.

1 Friday, Jan. 30

by kait Cavers

Thursday, Jan. 22

The Clipse featuring Ishkan, Scale Breakers SUGAR, DOORS AT 9 PM, $32

It’s time again for Victoria’s biannual hip-hop/rap show. Shine up your Chevy and check the hydraulics, bitches, these guys have been around since you were knee-high to a hip-hopper.

Saturday, Jan. 24

Jon and Roy, Acres of Lions UVIC SUB, SHOW AT 10 PM, $15

Come check out the island’s best-known talent, Jon and roy, with the island’s best-kept secret, Acres of Lions! this mix of pop rock and country will satisfy you like a corndog at a county fair.

Jeff Andrews with Crows at Midnight SOLSTICE CAFÉ, SHOW AT 8 PM, $10

Jeff Andrews presents the release of his album, Vagabonds & Wastrels. Come check out this inventive spin on the folk genre, while simultaneously getting high off quadruple shot Americanos.

Friday, Jan. 30

The Switchblade Valentines, with guests SOPRANOS, DOORS AT 9 PM, $10

Hank Pine and Lily Fawn, as well as the Dirty and the Derelicts, join Switchblade for a fiery explosion of rock, punk, and rock. Dee-hee-cent.

classifieds ENgLISH tutor for help with ESL, essay writing. bente, 250–592–8340, [email protected]

Tuesday, Jan. 27

Covers for a Cause LUCKY, DOORS AT 9 PM, $5

Acres of Lions, the gruff, bear’s Lair, Les Monstres terribles, and oscar collide on stage for a night of epic covers to provide support for cancer research. get drunk

Rules Each registered student at Camosun is eligible for up to 40 words FREE per semester. this can be in the form of a 40-word ad, or two 20-word ads. Drop off your ad at the Nexus, richmond House 201, Lansdowne, e-mail it to nexus@ nexusnewspaper.com, or call the ad in at 3703591. Please include your student number and contact information. Small print: Nexus reserves the right to refuse ads for any reason. No sexist, racist, homophobic, or otherwise derogatory or slanderous ads. business-related ads are $15 for 20 words or less. 50 cents per extra word

Sticky Vicky By Rhea Smilowski

This is a comic that I did when I was approximately 9-10 years old.

—Donald Kennedy Phlegm By Shane Scott-Travis

Overheard at CUP

tEssa cogMan StAFF EAVESDroPPEr

Since most of the Nexus staff was away at the Canadian university Press (CuP) national conference in Saskatoon, it was decided to do an overheard there. With four nights of seminars and drunken debauchery, we overheard unusual things and have never seen so many drunk journalists in one room before. the following is some of what’s been overheard at the CuP conference:

“guy, I have to sleep with you again.”

“Doesn’t Jesus turn you on? that beard is fantastic.”

“you and the Little Mermaid can go fuck yourselves.”

“If you drank the urine of anyone here, it would still be 7 percent alcohol.”

“My name is Craig Silliphant or, as some ladies know me, that creepy guy in the bushes.”

“Well, I knew you had tentacles.”

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