volume 32, issue 27 • tuesday, april 3, 2012 • thelinknewspaper.ca concordia’s independent newspaper dead wrongaboutvelcrosince1980 STARTING OVER•19 03PAGE Current Affairs

FIFTEENTH FLOOR HELL-RAISERS: FINE ARTS STUDENTS OCCUPY PRESIDENT’S HALLWAY • PAGE 5 Cost of an Occupation STRIKE UPDATE

• COMPLIED BY COLIN HARRIS

With the Concordia Stu- dent Union no longer hold- ing General Assemblies to address strike mandates, things are happening on the departmental level. Here’s the current status of student associations that have held strike votes. CASA The Commerce and Admin- istration Students' Associa- tion is NOT on strike.

COMS Guild The Communication Studies Student Guild is ON strike.

ECA The Engineering and Com- puter Science Assocation is NOT on strike.

FASA Unhappy with the way their administration handled a fee levy referendum, 23 students occupied the sixth floor of the James Administration Building for PHOTO SAM SLOTNICK The Fine Arts Student Al- five days in February before leaving peacefully. Thirty-five students, including first-floor sympathizers like these two, faced charges. liance is ON strike.

McGill Admin Reveals #6party Racked Up 141K Tab GUSS The Geography Undergrad- • PIERRE CHAUVIN nearly a billion dollars,” said it ended peacefully after five days passed yet, as far as I know,” said uate Student Society is ON McGill University spokesperson with an eviction conducted by the Buck-Moore. strike. It’s been almost two months Doug Sweet. “We’ll just have to Service de police de la Ville de He and another McGill student since the James Building occupa- suck it up. Montréal, the consequences ex- also lost their jobs as residence as- tion at McGill University ended, “If every time someone occu- tended beyond the financial ones. sistants in the Solin Hall residence JSA but the party isn’t over just yet. pied a space and the university McGill made the headlines for building as a consequence of their The Journalism Student As- An Access to Information re- ceded to their demands, what several days as approximately 35 involvement in the occupation. sociation is ON strike. quest submitted by The Link re- would happen?” students were charged under the “We just hope that due process vealed that the #6party occupation Not all McGill students share Code of Student Conduct and Dis- is observed; that they are not tar- came with a #6figure price tag, Sweet’s view of the #6party ex- ciplinary Procedures. geted above and beyond what’s al- PSSA costing McGill University over penses, saying this large bill might These include not only the 23 ready provided for based on the The Political Science Stu- $141,000. have been avoided if the university students who started the occupa- political nature of their protest,” dent Association is NOT on Calling the occupation a “sur- had engaged in a dialogue with tion, but also those who occupied said Knight. strike. prise resignation party” for Deputy protesters. the building’s ground floor in soli- In an interview with the Daily, Provost Student Life and Learning “Everything about how the ad- darity. Two editors from The McGill Principal Heather Munroe- Morton Mendelson, 23 students ministration handled the occupa- McGill Daily who were reporting Blum commented on the new secu- SoPhiA demanded that administration tion showed that they had all the on the occupation were also rity measures and long-term The Students of Philosophy overturn a decision to invalidate a resources they needed to do every- charged by the administration. consequences of the occupation. Association is ON strike. referendum that granted funding thing but engage with their stu- Sweet refused to disclose any “There are 300 people who for CKUT and the Quebec Public dents about the reasons they were information about the state of the come in and work really hard,” said Interest Research Group. there,” said Danji Buck-Moore, proceedings. Munroe-Blum. “[They] felt com- SASU Heightened security and over- one of the sixth floor occupiers. “I don’t know what is happen- pletely unsafe in the building, had The Society and Anthropol- time pay account for over Students’ Society of McGill Uni- ing and I’m not supposed to know their space intruded; some of them ogy Student Union is ON $134,000 of the money spent dur- versity President Maggie Knight, because it’s confidential,” he said. [felt] physically very threatened. strike. ing the five-day protest that began wasn’t surprised by the costs re- Sweet added that, under the So there’s an aftermath to that.” on Feb. 7. lated to the occupation. disciplinary process, there were Many students, however, are Other costs are split between “It’s up to the McGill commu- provisions for fines. still waiting for signs that the uni- UPA overtime agency personnel, cater- nity whether they consider that The charges include disruption, versity has their interests at heart The Urban Planning Associ- ing, and cleaning. During the first money well-spent or what they unauthorized entry and/or pres- with regards to the fallout from the ation is ON strike. three days of the occupation, the think should have happened in- ence; unauthorized or fraudulent occupation. university spent a combined stead,” said Knight. use of university facilities, equip- “A lot needs to come from the $60,867. By comparison, the fol- During the occupation, the ad- ment or services; and physical administration,” said Knight. “The WSSA lowing week, the costs dropped to ministration gradually cut the oc- abuses, harassment and dangerous more powerful party needs to take The Women’s Studies Stu- about $11,570 per day. cupiers’ access to food, electricity activity. the first step as a sign of good dent Association is ON “The university has a budget of and functioning plumbing. While “No final judgment has been faith.” strike. the link • april 3, 2012 04 current affairs thelinknewspaper.ca/news Talking With the Presidents

Outgoing CSU president, Lex Gill says she is “ready to be done.” PHOTO RILEY SPARKS Incoming CSU president Schubert Laforest has begun meeting with Gill to discuss his term. PHOTO ERIN SPARKS Gill and Laforest Talk CSU, Board, Prez and More

• JULIA WOLFE Having this whole tuition dia- ways the same thing. around and let the Board do its volved in that process, and the logue, which hasn’t really been had thing. They want to be in the know, CSU should be acting as bridge to As Your Concordia vacates at Concordia before, brought to the Laforest: It’s important to have they want to be on the front lines, get them there. their offices on the seventh floor of surface this activism that was kind a chair that respects students. […] they want to be involved in every- the Hall Building, A Better Con- of dormant at Concordia. People Right now, [the Governors] don’t thing. Laforest: [Chartwells] is some- cordia is figuring out how to rep- on both sides of the issue came out treat students as equals, they treat thing we’re going to be negotiating resent the students in a university in droves to voice their opinions us as people who should act as if ON THE CFS and looking into sustainable alter- on the eve of sweeping administra- and that was something that we they are lucky to be here not as if natives to. [VP Sustainability] An- tion change. want to foster and keep alive. this is our right and we should be Gill: With the [Canadian Feder- drew Roberts is very adamant that The Link sat down with Lex Gill Students felt [the CSU was] taken seriously when we are bring- ation of Students] lawsuit, the it is a sustainable model, not just in and Schubert Laforest, the current spitting information at them, say- ing out concerns to the table. wheels are in motion. It’s just terms of the environment but also and upcoming Concordia Student ing you need to strike because of One of the main fights is to get about serious carry-though and both in terms in the way it’s run Union Presidents to get their takes this and this reason and that there the alternate member an actual making sure that those things and that it’s cost-effective. on the state of affairs and plans for wasn’t enough of the opposite seat on the board. I know it’s going don’t get neglected. Being in a the future. opinion. Just giving a venue for the to be a long, arduous battle […] I’m long-term legal battle is not glam- opposite opinion to take place is not going to stop until we get it. orous, but it’s work that needs to ON JOHN MOLSON SCHOOL OF BUSINESS really important. And if it’s something we can’t get done. ON THIS YEAR’S CSU Not only does it add legitimacy achieve by the end of our mandate, If the CFS were allowed back on Gill: When I think back on the that you have equal representation we want to actually have made ac- this campus right now, it would de- year, my executives have spent a Gill: We had one of the most of both views, but it also makes tive steps towards getting that sec- stroy three, four years of really im- lot of time building really strong difficult times at the union and I students more comfortable to par- ond seat. [With only one student portant work. Given the relationships specifically in fine think that my executive have done ticipate in the process. rep,] you’re kind of put in a posi- organization’s history with Con- arts and arts and sciences, but we a really good job of making it tion where you’re at the mercy of cordia, it would just open the open had trouble in engineering and through that. ON THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS the Board and you really have to the door to same politics that we’re business. The bylaws and standing regu- depend on them to get things done glad to get rid of. It’s really hard to reach out to lations are completely rewritten, Gill: A good Board chair is or get things talked about. JMSB. It would have been nice to we said no to the student center, someone who is fair and objective, Laforest: I’d love to win the find new ways to reach out to and you can look to orientation. has a broad idea of what the best ON THE NEW PRESIDENT case, but I’m not sure how realistic those communities a lot of the We proved that you can do orien- interest of the university is and that is. We’ll just have to make sure time. One of the biggest chal- tation right, that it can be local and someone who listens. A lot of that Gill: Whoever the new presi- that active steps are taken. We lenges for us politically has been sustainable and reasonably priced. role is listening. dent is will have a significant im- need to be fully sure we don’t have trying to keep everyone happy. We proved that you can do Quite frankly, I think the whole pact on the tone on university to pay ridiculous fees. Sometimes you end up making these sorts of things right. I think structure of the board is a mess. governance—at least, I hope they comprises to make everyone [VP Student Life] Laura Glover has It’s corporate people with corpo- will. happy and in the end you make done a lot to make student life into rate interests and until that There is a need for fresh faces; ON THE CHARTWELLS CONTRACT no one happy. a more holistic portfolio and she’s changes […] I don’t know how I think even the Board recognizes invested a lot of time and energy much of a difference you’re going that when they talk about renewal. Gill: Students should be de- Laforest: [The divide between building a new policy around that. to see in how the Board operates. manding to be involved in [the JMSB and the rest of the school I think when people look back With the number of people Laforest: A functioning rela- Chartwells negotiations]. I think is] something that has always on our year, they will probably re- leaving this year, there is a real op- tionship with this university’s pres- the clearest place to look is resi- been there. JMSB students feel member the strike and the tuition portunity to get people who have a ident is vital. [Concordia needs] a dence life; those are the students estranged by this university. campaign the most, but that’s just more direct involvement with the president that is going to be willing directly affected by it. I don’t think There are two things that need one part of the work that we got community. to address to the issues of misman- it would be a hard sell to get stu- to be addressed—there is the done. If you look at the way the uni- agement of the university, will ac- dents involved in that process in actual representatives of their versity operates, it’s not actually knowledge that financial some way. It’s one of the biggest views and they fact that Laforest: [The current CSU that the Board or the senior ad- mismanagement exists and will things that comes up around the they don’t engage in these was] able to mobilize despite being ministration are evil people out to take active measures to ensure that CSU office, the lack of consultation processes. […] an English university. […] It get you. I think it’s really easy for it does not happen again. with students among corporate We want to promote inter- showed Concordia’s unique na- them to painted that way because I would like to see a Concordia contracts. faculty collaborations, because ture. It’s an English university, but it is endlessly frustrating. It’s just president who acknowledges that I almost feel like it shouldn’t be when you work together on a in many aspects we behave like a that the university’s interests and Concordia is unique and that our the CSU at the table; it should stu- project, that ties the Concordia French university. the students’ interests are not al- students are not going to sit dents from residence who are in- community together. the link • april 3, 2012 thelinknewspaper.ca/news current affairs 05 Now We’re Talking

Frederick Lowy, Andy Filipowich and Chris Mota on discuss with demonstrating students. PHOTO ERIN SPARKS Prez Lowy Speaks to Students After Hallway Occupation

• HILARY SINCLAIR failure to meet quorum. After The students’ demands were their classes. “I was generally just waiting over an hour to discuss a relayed to the president by Mont- “We don’t have an overall pol- Concordia’s Interim President continuation of the alliance’s pellier, who in turn relayed to stu- icy at this university that tells in- shocked by the level Frederick Lowy opened up an im- strike mandate, which has dents the ‘business as usual’ dividual professors how to run promptu dialogue with students spanned almost five weeks, stu- attitude taken by administration. their courses or how to mark the of ignorance, of just for the first time Monday, dis- dents decided to use their num- He said that Lowy must “do exams, or how to set the exams, absolute ignorance cussing tuition hikes and the uni- bers to take real action. whatever is necessary to publically or all the rest,” said Lowy. versity’s hard stance on dissenting “People were getting furiously and vocally support academic Some students believed that coming from Lowy,” action. demoralized, and the sentiment in amnesty being given to all stu- this was a crucial crack in the ad- –Evan Montpellier Following an occupation of the the SGM room was pretty nega- dents who have participated in the ministration’s hard stance, but corridor outside the president’s tive,” said studio arts student strike. Montpellier was appalled by the Studio Arts Student office on the 15th floor of the MB Evan Montpellier. “One student “Secondly, […] push for the seeming lack of knowledge the Building, Lowy replied to an email put it quite well, when she said, ‘I university to take a public stance head of the university has on the sent by fine arts student Casey didn’t realize I was coming to a fu- in opposition to the $1,625 tuition subject. Stainsby asking him to join in on neral today.’” hike budgeted by the Charest gov- “I was generally just shocked the conversation. Banging on walls and buckets ernment.” by the level of ignorance, of just The president, who had just re- and chanting, “Whose school? The president responded by absolute ignorance coming from turned from a trip to Hong Kong, Our school!,” students filled the t- saying that the hikes are necessary Lowy,” he said. “It’s not just didn’t deviate from the pro-tuition shaped corridors that lead to the due to underfunding. about internal affairs at Concor- hike stance of university adminis- president’s office, until they got “This slogan that I think a lot dia. He had the wrong facts about tration, saying, “The universities word that he would talk. of you object to, ‘Students should issues with the budget. He didn’t in Quebec have been pushing for “I am presently on a telephone do their part,’ is in fact the case,” know how much of the money those tuition hikes for a long time, call, but, when my meeting is over, said Lowy. “If the student contri- that is garnered from the tuition and finally the government has I will come out and will be pleased bution were not to go up and fees is going to be reinvested in acted,” he said. to speak with you,” Lowy re- there were no other funds to the education system.” “I personally would have no sponded in his email to Stainsby. compensate, we would literally The president was eager to problem with zero tuition, with no After hearing that Director of be falling more and more behind, continue discussion with stu- tuition at all, provided that the Concordia’s Media Relations year after year.” dents, telling them he was free to university could get operating Chris Mota would be arriving to Academic amnesty, he said, meet the next morning. The Con- funds from other sources.” moderate the discussion, students falls under the purview of cordia Student Union will work The occupation began as a re- chose undergraduate Senate rep- each professor, emphasizing with Lowy’s office to determine sult of the Fine Arts Student Al- resentative Andy Filipowich to that it would be out of tradition the details, but promised dia- liance’s Special General Meeting’s moderate on behalf of protesters. to tell teachers how to run logue within the next few days. the link • april 3, 2012 06 current affairs thelinknewspaper.ca/news MANIFESTATION MARATHON

1

2 3

1. A Charest dummy burns during last Thursday’s Grand Mascarade. PHOTO ADAM KOVAC

2. Students gather at Place des Arts before the start of the march. PHOTO BENJAMIN ALLARD

3. Thursday’s Grand Mascarade attracted many elaborately dressed protestors. PHOTO BENJAMIN ALLARD

4. An April Fool’s Day march saw students suit up as they marched ironically in support of tuition hikes. PHOTO ERIN SPARKS

5. Costumed protestors lie down in front of police by UQAM during 4 5 the Grand Mascarade. PHOTO ADAM KOVAC the link • april 3, 2012 thelinknewspaper.ca/news current affairs 07 Scrutinizing Security BOG GRUB

PHOTO PIERRE CHAUVIN Governors Cost $300 a Meeting to Feed

• COREY POOL

Once a month, Concordia’s Board of Governors and a handful of student repre- sentatives meet in a room in the EV Building to discuss the university’s internal issues. From September 2011 to Jan. 31, 2012 a total of five BoG meetings took place. Through documents obtained from an Access to Informa- tion request, The Link can re- port that the university spent Security agents at Concordia film demonstrating students PHOTO BENJAMIN ALLARD a total of just over $2,400 to facilitate them. Over the five meetings, Agent at Concordia Found Without a License Concordia spent just over $1,400 on “refreshments” for • COREY POOL “Every security agent that is on demonstrating outside of a class in firms, most notably Maximum the approximately 30 people the university premises is sup- the Faubourg Building, reportedly and CCC. in attendance, the largest ex- Concordia University security posed to be a licensed individual. there reminding students that “Providing Concordia with a penditure on the bill, which is falling under further scrutiny These individuals are also all sup- their associations were still on non-licensed individual does not averages out to just shy of after the security officer involved posed to be providing students strike. satisfy the University’s expecta- $300 per meeting. in the alleged assault of a student with licenses when requested, and “It was sort of our way of re- tions nor Maximum’s contractual “To put things into per- on March 23 has been revealed to to fail to do so is a violation of the sponding to the fact that security obligations to us,” said Lachance spective, we rarely spend not possess a valid security per- Private Security Act.” was going to be ramped up on in the letter. more than $100 on food for mit. According to section four of each one of our campuses,” said Concordia University spokesper- CSU Council meetings, and A document shared with The Quebec’s Private Security Act, Gross. “We were reaching out to son Chris Mota agreed, and said the those are also once a month,” Linkz revealed that the security “Any person operating an enter- each other and providing mutual university is following up with an said Concordia Student guard in question is not a licensed prise that carries on a private se- support between the two cam- investigation. Union President Lex Gill. agent with his employer, Agence curity activity must hold an puses.” “We should expect to have “That’s usually enough pizza de sécurité Maximum Inc. agency license of the appropriate Though some have questioned fully trained and competent peo- or burritos or falafel for about “Following verification with his class.” Gross’s involvement in strike ac- ple,” said Mota. “We are pursuing 40 people.” employer, […] we have been ad- Any agent in violation of sec- tion on the Concordia campus in that with the employer. Our ex- In contrast, the university vised that he does not hold a secu- tion four is guilty of an offence and the first place, others have pointed pectations are that when we con- only allotted about one quar- rity permit at this moment,” said liable to a fine of $500 to $5,000. out that this undermines a much tract with a supplier that they will ter of the cost of refreshments Concordia Security Acting Direc- Additionally, if convicted, the greater issue. be supplying us with agents that to Instructional and Informa- tor Jacques Lachance in the writ- agent in question is liable to be “The fact of the matter is that are fully credited.” tion Technology Services and ten response to a formal found in contempt of several other before she was struck there was no According to the document, audiovisual equipment, complaint filed against the agent sections of the act. verification of whether she was a the individual’s application for a which would facilitate the requesting his name and license Amber Gross, the McGill stu- Concordia student or not,” said security permit is in progress over-flow room. number. dent who was the victim of the al- Walcott. “Furthermore, the job of with the Bureau de la sécurité In total, $350 was spent “The university told us on leged assault, filed a complaint security is to ensure the general privée. The individual in question on IITS, or an average of [March 30] that this person was against the agent and asked Con- safety of students.” has been reassigned and is no roughly $70 per meeting. under review,” said Concordia cordia security to investigate. “If one of our security agents longer working at Concordia. “One person will go up Student Union VP External Chad Gross says she was encouraged by that our university is employing is Due to privacy legislation and set up a projector and Walcott. “Then we found out that a Concordia security officer to harassing students, that’s a seri- and the investigation of this one or two wireless micro- he wasn’t even licensed at all, pursue a formal complaint with ous problem, regardless of where case, the agent’s name is not phones, but it won’t go much which leads me to believe that the the security department. the student was from.” being released. For this same rea- further than that,” said an university lied to us, or they them- Gross was part of a group of Concordia hires private secu- son, Lachance was unavailable IITS technician about the selves were lied to. Concordia and McGill students rity agents from several private for comment. standard procedure. PAGE 08 Fringe Arts BBQ AND PBR: ADVENTURES AT SXSW • PAGE 9 Spoke, Line & Sinker

Bait bike being rigged up with tracking system. PHOTO COURTESY OF TO CATCH A BIKE THIEF To Catch a Bike Thief Seeks Stolen Rides—and Answers

• KATIE MCGROARTY producer and host of new web rounding theft. new initiatives, like travelling to Although watching a thief get- show To Catch a Bike Thief, “We would actually like to see Montreal and San Francisco with ting arrested might be sweet re- Just like choosing between along with a team of dispatchers, an increase in reported bike the project—something that is al- venge for those who have gotten fixed-gear and 10-speed, or be- confrontation specialists and se- thefts, and the reason for that is ready in the works. their bike stolen, that’s not the tween vintage and new, how you curity officers, started hunting right now because of the percep- “If we find ourselves in next step in the operation. In- lock your bike—U-lock or chain, the bike thieves wreaking havoc tion that nothing can be done, no an over-funding situation we stead, the team attempts to inter- key or combination—is just as in our cities. one really reports their bikes as can start to do some really fun view the thief, looking for important. “I know I’m certainly not the being stolen when they go miss- things like shooting episodes in answers, such as what bikes they By now most people know only one to be affected by bike ing,” he said. different cities and potentially usually target, what kind of locks that locking just the wheel is ask- theft,” Lou said. “Pretty much “As a result, the idea is that if create a fleet of bait bikes and they look for and the kind of ing for trouble—but not locking everybody that I know that rides we can encourage everyone to re- have them all stolen simultane- places they steal from. through the spokes could mean a bike at one point in their life port their bikes as being stolen as ously to find out if there’s any “Our intention is to not in- coming back to a wheel-less bike. has had their bike stolen. soon as they go missing, there type of organized crime element volve the cops or law enforce- Stolen bike statistics are “There’s a really strong per- can be an increase in perceived to the bike-theft situation,” said ment. [The show is] part alarming to say the least. Accord- ception that nothing is being incidents of bike thefts. There- Lou. education and part entertain- ing to the team behind To Catch done about it, or that nothing can fore, the stats could show a sud- “The reason behind that, of ment. It’s all shot from a docu- a Bike Thief, a new web series be done, which is really the rea- den spike and then maybe more course, is if we see that the bikes mentary-style narrative, so what slated to air this fall, every 2.5 son why we decided to make To attention will be shed on the are coalescing in one area of we really are searching for is an- minutes a bicycle is stolen, and Catch a Bike Thief —to show issue.” town, a bike shop or a ware- swers,” said Lou. only one in 100 is ever recovered. vthat there are actual tools and Looking to the public for house, we can blow the doors “The point of the show is to Armed with a DIY bait-bike technologies [that bikers] can use funding, the team hopes to raise wide open off of that.” find out who is stealing bikes, equipped with vibration sensors, to protect themselves.” $20,000 to shoot and produce When the bait bike is in place why, where they’re going, who’s a tracker and a GPS system that Based out of Vancouver, To Season One. But raising more and the lock is cut, a GPS signal buying stolen bikes and trying to broadcasts its real-time location Catch a Bike Thief’s team is look- than that is the , and would is sent out and the team gets to get answers, as opposed to trying every 10 seconds, Ingo Lou, the ing to change the dialogue sur- give them the chance to pursue work. to get convictions.” the link • april 3, 2012 thelinknewspaper.ca/fringe fringe 09 SXSW Diary: Part 1

Noise Complaints, Breakfast Tacos & Being Better Than Everyone Else • JOE CORNFIELD Fake RSVPs, cut-off- I arrived at my South by South- and-taped-back-on west accommodations in Austin, TX on a sunny, humid Monday. wristbands, and Located just a few blocks from E. 12th St. and Chicon St., the noto- backdoor entrances riously rough intersection in the are a few of the city’s east end, my host’s place would be home to 15 musicians tactics we used to and fans for the duration of the festival. get into venues. I was staying with Dave, a friend of a friend, and his room- We ended up passing back an mate Eli. Dave is a well-spoken iPhone with the same RSVP four Harvard grad with a passion for times to get us all into the club, a folk music—his dog is named game-time manoeuvre that gave Townes, after the Texan country us access to a night of free liquor musician Townes Van Zandt. and great music. Eli is a former snowboard pro Even if you plan for months in turned high-functioning alcoholic advance, this kind of last-minute with an assortment of drugs in his finagling is often necessary to get sock drawer that would rival some into the more exclusive parties. pharmacies both in number and in Fake RSVPs, cut-off-and-taped- variety. back-on wristbands, and backdoor During the week of the festival, entrances are a few of the tactics if he wasn’t on one of his 12-hour we used to get into venues over the sassafras-and-MDMA binges, he course of the week. was at home telecommuting to his After getting a ride home from high-paying desk job while a generous Austinite who probably doing hits of nitrous oxide from shouldn’t have been driving, we an endless box of whipped- were surprised to find a raging af- cream chargers. terparty going on at the house. Having arrived in the city a day A Denver-based dubstep duo early, I was planning on spending called Bedrock were making use of the night collecting myself, organ- the multiple Marshall stacks in the izing my week, and researching living room, much to the dismay of artists. Instead, Eli and Dave im- our neighbours. After 10 noise mediately dragged me off to a local complaints and two visits from the bar in South Austin for some BBQ police, Bedrock finally shut down and PBR. their improvised system and we all A couple of hours later, I found found a few square feet of floor myself in my first official SXSW space to pass out on. line. While the festival boasts an The next morning I set out to impressive amount of free shows, explore the city. I choked down a often with free beer provided by couple of breakfast tacos, a Tex- sponsors, the trouble of actually Mex standard consisting of pota- getting into them is the most com- toes, eggs, bacon, and cheese in a mon festival-goer complaint. soft taco shell, picked up my festi- Most events require online val badge and took a walk around RSVPs to get on the guest-list. If downtown Austin to get my bear- you miss the RSVP, whether or not ings. you have a badge or wristband, After checking out some ven- you’re out of luck. Once you’re on ues, picking up wristbands, and PHOTO JOE CORNFIELD the list you have to brave the lines, tracking down some free food and which often stretch across entire a lot of free beer, it was time for based here in Montreal. Camera in sound that bumps as hard in the put us on because its not electro.” city blocks and last for hours. me to fulfill my professional obli- hand, I took up a spot at the bar club as it does at a college house The struggle for recognition Officially, there were 2,000 gations. I headed to a small club beside a fast-talking record execu- party. and success is one shared by the musicians registered to showcase called Spill on 6th St., Austin’s tive. I learned he was also there to Riding the momentum of sold- majority of the mostly indie artists and around 15,000 registered at- equivalent of St. Laurent Boul., for see Ain’t No Love. out shows in Montreal and at SXSW. tendees this year. However, those the Planet Quebec launch party. “They just have such a mar- , Broere had a simple ex- Everyone is trying to make con- numbers were at least doubled by Spill was just one of three ven- ketable image!” he explained, ex- planation for their early success. nections, meet bloggers and have unofficial musicians and festival- ues in the downtown core that cited. “If you look at it, we literally their music heard by the right peo- goers who chose not to buy an ex- were dedicated to showcasing While it’s not necessarily the cover the entire spectrum of like, ple. The festival is a sea of talent, pensive badge. Canadian bands at SXSW. Ironi- first compliment an artist would race, weight, gender, class, style, with great bands in every bar and This massive influx of official cally, despite travelling about ask for, Ain’t No Love’s unique everything—anybody can feel on every corner; how any of them and unofficial traffic dominates 3,000 km to Austin, I kept finding image and sound have attracted comfortable with us.” are able to separate themselves the downtown core for the week of myself at Spill, the Canada House, the attention of fans, labels, and But their diverse image and from the crowd is a mystery. the festival, packing all of the ven- and the Canadian Blast BBQ over promoters alike. unique sound has also been an ob- McBean isn’t as mystified. ues and bars past capacity. the course of the week, seeing Comprised of DJ/producer stacle. “There’s no secret, you just On my first night in Austin, bands that were mostly from my Liam Clarke, MCs Roly Broere “With our genre, if it even ex- have to be better. You have to be only one guy in our group of four hometowns of Montreal and (aka 1990) and Eli McBean (aka ists, it’s hard to hit up better than everyone else.” had the foresight to RSVP to the Toronto. Beanz) and singer Saidah Conrad, 2dopeboyz.com and be like, check event we were attending, a patio That night at Spill, I was check- ANL fuses bass-heavy, dubstep- out this real hip hop, because it’s Read SXSW Diary: Part 2 party with free beer DJed by the ing out Ain’t No Love, a genre- influenced beats, gritty lyricism, not,” McBean said. “And there’s at thelinknewspaper.ca Hood Internet. bending hip-hop/electronic group and soulful hooks to create a no electro blog that really wants to next week. the link • april 3, 2012 10 fringe thelinknewspaper.ca/fringe

BEST OF THE MUSIC of the WEB SPHERES

DAILY COVERAGE AT THELINKNEWSPAPER.CA FRINGE>> FOOD

According to Spacing Montréal and the Canadian Centre for Architecture, taste has the power to shape experiences across this island and beyond. The hip urban mag and stately museum have joined with other culinary forces to as- semble what they call an “un-confer- ence” on taste in Montreal.

BLACKBIRD>> CRY

Shadowbox Productions presents Blackbird, written by David Harrower PHOTO JOSÉ DEL RÍO MONS and directed by Sara King-Abadi, a controversial play about two former lovers with an illicit past. Nada Surf Singer Talks Philosophy, Psychology, Planets

• STEPHANIE LA LEGGIA iour that has to change.” cause they embraced us and we put something really put to- Caws’ soothing, melancholic feel it may be our duty to keep on gether,” said Caws. “I realized Every now and then there’s a voice stays captivating even when coming back to the same cities [they] were playing so well be- great band that sticks around for it’s not the soundtrack to tribula- over and over again.” cause it’s all done, done and a couple of decades—a band tions of California’s elite young- Though their new single dusted.” whose music connects, grows and sters. “When I Was Young” has an au- Caws said the album was in- matures with you. While some may have thought tobiographical feel to it, the spired by thoughts of nature, how LIVE SESSION #4 Nada Surf first reached indie they were headed towards one- album itself—entitled The Stars humans have been losing touch >> favourite status when their cover hit-wonder status with the popu- Are Indifferent to Astronomy—is with the natural world and how of “If You Leave” by Orchestral larity of their 1996 single less personal than their usual our daily lives are constantly Maneuvres in the Dark appeared “Popular,” the New York City trio style. Looking back at older changing. With help from Caws’ on seminal teen drama The O.C. continued to play music that records and earlier recordings, father, the band was able to find in 2004 and persuaded fans to shares their wisdom and life les- Caws admitted his journey a title that suited their philosoph- check out their original tunes. sons with a legion of fans. through music has been more a ical theme of detachment be- Their seventh LP has a more Throughout the years, Nada self-reflection he describes as, tween humans and nature. positive vibe than their previous Surf’s sound may have grown and “staring into a psychological mir- “The stars and the planets records, an outlook that lead shifted, but they haven’t alien- ror.” don’t know we gave them names, singer and guitarist Matthew ated fans, and despite problems “[I decided to] let the rest of and it doesn’t matter to them,” Caws has been trying to keep with former label Elektra result- the world come in a little bit said Caws. “It’s something about constant. ing in a not-so-amicable split and more,” said Caws. “Just trying to humility in the face of nature, The girls from indie-folk-pop trio Motel “I just have to remember to legal battle over their sophomore look out the window rather than and also checking ourselves Raphaël are featured in our latest Link put things in context and remem- album, the band is still going the mirror.” that we’re not becoming too Live Session. Catch them at Le Divan ber to look for the long-term so- strong. Caws said they couldn’t For the first time in years, presumptuous about what we Orange April 5 with Samantha Savage Smith. lutions and not the short-term imagine doing anything else. Nada Surf recorded the album think we know.” ones, which is something I’ve “It’s an honour and a thrill to back in their hometown of New been guilty of my whole life,” said stand in front of [the fans],” said York. They wanted to pin down Nada Surf (w/ An Horse) / Caws. “I always want the quick fix Caws. “Also, we may feel a little the songs before they lost them. April 5 / Corona Theatre when really, it’s mainly behav- bit of an obligation to them be- “We were just really trying to (2490 Notre-Dame St. W.) PAGE11 Lifestyle

HOCKEY’S RENAISSANCE WOMAN : MARIE BRETON-LEBREUX • PAGE 14 BARRETTE THE ALOUETTE

Montreal Alouette offensive lineman Anthony Barrette in action with the Concordia Stingers. PHOTO JOHN MAHONEY Former Stingers Lineman to Dress for Montreal

• ANDREW MAGGIO The history major started out something clicked inside my the two most important people in but also preparing him for life as as a defensive lineman, but brain, I told myself that I was his life, and also singled out his a professional athlete. Like many young Canadians, seamlessly made the switch to of- going to change everything uncle, Peter Folko, as being his Chiu had nothing but good ex-Concordia Stinger Anthony fensive line in his second year at around, that this was what I role model. Folko played in the things to say about Barrette, and Barrette’s first passion was Vanier College. He was skeptical wanted to do and that I was going with the is confident that he will be a good hockey. But a chance meeting at first, but it turned out to be to do it.” , but his ca- CFL player for years to come. helped spur his move from the one of the best decisions he’s His determination culminated reer was cut short by a knee in- “I think Anthony is a great ice rink to the gridiron. ever made. in his name getting called by his jury. player,” said Chiu, who played 13 “I used to play hockey up until “Playing defense was fun, it hometown team on that fateful His football role model, Mar- seasons with the Alouettes, “He’s I was 15,” said Barrette. “But was more about instinct,” said draft day in May of 2011. wan Hage, offensive lineman for got size and great athletic ability, then I kind of lost the passion for Barrette, “Offensive line is kind “In life, if you have a goal, no the Hamilton Tiger-Cats was key he’s very quick for a guy his size. it. A year later I was playing pick- of the same thing, but it’s a con- matter what it is, and you achieve in shaping Barrette’s game. He’ll do everything you ask of up football at a park in Lasalle trolled violence because it’s way that goal, even when all the odds “I started training with Mar- him as a coach and those are the and a coach from the Lasalle more technical. There’s a lot of are against you—that’s one of the wan in my second year at Con- guys you love to have. He’s not Warriors saw me and asked me thinking involved.” best feelings in the world,” he cordia, and he really made me the most vocal guy, but he’s a to play.” Despite his obvious talent, said. realize that my dream was possi- great leader by example.” The switch is now paying div- going pro was never really in the “That day when I got drafted, ble,” said Barrette. “He taught His unwavering determina- idends for Barrette, as he just cards—until he was told it was it could have been any team in me to stay focused on getting bet- tion and will to succeed is what signed his first professional con- impossible. the CFL, it was just a great feel- ter at my position and taught me got Barrette to this point, and he tract with the Montreal Alouettes “When I first started playing I ing—I can’t really describe it. It a lot about the business aspect of knows it’s what will allow him to of the Canadian Football League. never thought about [it],” said was such a sense of accomplish- the league.” succeed in the CFL. After spending five years an- Barrette. ment, that all the years of train- Barrette also credits Bryan “The ultimate goal is to choring the left side of the “I had some coaches at the ing had paid off.” Chiu, former Alouettes offensive become not just a good player Stingers’ offensive line, Barrette time who told me I should prob- Barrette has had a strong sup- lineman and current assistant of- in the CFL, but a legend in was drafted 16th overall in the ably focus on school because I porting cast around him fensive coordinator of the the CFL,” said Barrette. second round during the 2011 was never going to go anywhere throughout his football career. Stingers, for not only helping “It’s going to be a long road, but Canadian Football League draft. in football. When I was told that, He credits his parents as being him improve as a football player, I’m ready.” the link • april 3, 2012 12 lifestyle thelinknewspaper.ca/sports

THE MARIO LEMIEUX of WOMEN’S HOCKEY

PHOTO BRANDON TAYLOR Ex-Stinger Lisa-Marie Breton-Lebreux on Her Hockey Career

• DAVID MURPHY racy. Her voice rises in excite- national championships with against the women who went on there was only one more thing to ment when she talks about the Concordia under current long- to earn silver at the Nagano do, which was to win the National Hockey Renaissance woman final, where her team overtook reigning head coach Les Lawton. Olympics, she was eventually Women’s Hockey League cham- and ex-Concordia Stinger Lisa- the Brampton Hockey Club 4-2. In 2001 she also won a slew of dropped from the national team pionship again, which she did, Marie Breton-Lebreux lapped a “We were just on our game awards, including a CIS All- after graduation. also in 2006, scoring the game- life goal last weekend, winning that day,” said the 34-year-old. Canadian award. “I was always among the top winning goal for the now defunct the —for a third It’s arguable, however, that “She came [to Concordia] and ten scorers in leagues, but never . time. she’s never really off it. Breton- had trouble conversing in Eng- got to make it [to Team Canada],” The sticks she played with The competition, however, Lebreux has a hockey curriculum lish,” said Lawton. Breton-Le- said Breton-Lebreux wistfully. during those games now lie in wouldn’t have even come into vitae that would make Montreal breux, who’s from the small town “My dream was always to com- Toronto’s , fruition without Breton-Lebreux, Canadiens captain Brian Gionta of Saint-Zacharie, QC, overcame pete at a national team level.” but despite that honour, Breton- who played a leading role in the jealous. She started off making that speed bump, and culminated “The year team Canada re- Lebreux was soon faced with a development the Canadian the under-18 Quebec provincial by graduating with a sociology leased me, I kind of lost hope that pressing issue—one season later, Women’s Hockey League. team at the age of 15, and would degree. I would have that chance.” she didn’t have a league to play in Captain of the Montreal Stars, regularly play at Concordia’s rink “She’s a very dedicated ath- But while Breton-Lebreux anymore, as the NWHL collapsed Breton-Lebreux and her CWHL for tournaments in the early-to- lete, not only athletically though, came close to abandoning her in 2007. team went undefeated in the mid ‘90s. but academically too. She was dream of representing Canada, Teams were losing up to Clarkson Cup—the “It was during Concordia’s probably one of the hardest she eventually did receive a call $150,000 a year, and there was of women’s hockey—winning it glory days and I said to myself, working athletes I’ve coached,” to play hockey for Canada—just little to no structure—rookies for the third time in four years. ‘Wow, […] one day I’m going to said Lawton. not on ice. In 2006, the Canadian could join whichever team they “We knew it was going to be be the captain of the Stingers,’ But overcoming obstacles and Women’s Roller Hockey team in- wanted, and there was no balance physical and tough, we got the and that became my goal.” completing goals is a constant vited her to play in the World in pay. Some players didn’t get better of [them],” said Breton-Le- It was a goal she completed in theme Breton-Lebreux’s life. Championships. She won there, paid at all, as stadiums remained, breux, listing off significant plays style. Breton was captain of the Part of Canada’s B-team in too. for the most part, empty. in the game with uncanny accu- Stingers and went on to win two 1998, a team that practiced And after completing this goal That’s when the entrepreneur the link • april 3, 2012 thelinknewspaper.ca/sports lifestyle 13

PHOTO PASQUALE STALTERI

Captain Lisa-Marie Breton-Lebreux was a +9 during the Canadian Women’s Hockey League Regular Season with 9 points overall. She recorded an assist in the final of the Clarkson Cup against Brampton on March 25.

Lisa-Marie Breton-Lebreux stands in front of Boston’s PHOTO PASQUALE STALTERI (From left to right) Current Concordia Stingers women’s assistant coach Nathalie Déry, captain Lisa-Marie PHOTO BRANDON TAYLOR goalkeeper in the semi-finals of the Clarkson Cup on March 24. Breton-Lebreux, ex-Governor General , CWHL League Commissioner , Canadian Olympian , and ex-Stinger captain Kelly Sudi pose with the Clarkson Cup. in Breton-Lebreux woke up. “Some games, we would be on TV, the passing, the nice country, she brings that to our not just on the ice.” The only other option to play like, ‘Do we have enough pucks plays, it’s fast. […] We have of- team.” Winning the Cup certainly has regular hockey at a competitive for warm-up? Is there a DJ to fensive talent that we’ve never One of those players is Cather- off-ice advantages. The Montreal level was to go west, which play songs during the game and seen before,” said Breton-Le- ine Rancourt, a right-winger on Stars have been named the Per- wasn’t a possibility for many. intermission?’” said Breton-Le- breux. the Stingers women’s hockey sonalité de la semaine by With guidance from six other breux, who decided to start work- “This year for first time we team. She’s a grinder, just like La Presse, joining a list that players, two from Team Canada, ing at Concordia’s Le Gym at the had a league banquet. Last year Breton-Lebreux, but she also put includes names like the Montreal a new league emerged—the same time. we just had a soiree, nothing up a team-leading 11 points this Alouettes’ Anthony Calvillo, Canadian Women’s Hockey “It grew, as well as my work much. Now it’s a red carpet ban- season. Oscar-nominated filmmaker League. […] everything was just growing, quet. [We had] steaks and crab to “We had a special relation- Denis Villeneuve and Montreal “In 2007 we had a tough year, both on and off the ice for me.” eat. [It] sounds like [we’re] ship. She sees herself in me, I Impact owner Joey Saputo. it was really a bit stressful,” she The league has made strides celebrities.” think,” said Rancourt. “She was “Because of the league, I’ve said. over the last five years thanks to Breton-Lebreux is now Con- pushing me a lot. I was always been able to do things,” says Bre- She had to do everything—she guidance from National Hockey cordia’s strength and condition- listening to what she was saying.” ton-Lebreux. She’s been invited was a league co-founder, general League Commissioner Gary ing coach, guiding players from a “And [she] corrects you if you to press conferences at the Bell manager of the Montreal Stars Bettman and the creation of range of sports to accomplish do something wrong, and just Centre, met several Montreal (one of the seven new teams), as three new teams. Social media’s goals she sets from day one of makes you want to do better,” mayors over the years and she well as a player and the captain, helped, too, leading the way for training, something she’s been teammate Maggie McNeil inter- has the opportunity to host an too—like a super-charged version more advertisement opportuni- doing for herself for decades. jected. “It’s never personal, be- annual breast cancer awareness of the Pittsburgh Penguins’ ties and even spots on sports net- “I think she’s a big part of the cause [she’s] doing it to make you fundraiser on behalf of the Mario Lemieux, who returned works—this year’s Clarkson Cup department, not only women’s better.” CWHL. from retirement in 2000 after be- was played on TSN. hockey but she’s training the big- “Seeing her achieve something “I’m blessed to have my team- coming the team’s owner and “What we’ve improved the ger and best athletes,” said Law- like [winning the Clarkson Cup] mates beside me through rough played for five seasons as a most is the level of play has gone ton. “Working with some of the also makes me want to achieve times and good times. That’s why player/owner. up big-time. [If you watch] clips top female hockey players in the something like this, but maybe we’ve been successful.” PAGE14 Opinions

DUMB AND DUMBER: TWO MONTREAL INSTITUTIONS LOOK TO PUT A BAD YEAR BEHIND THEM • PAGE 16

GRAPHIC PAKU DAOUST-CLOUTIER Visible INC Incomplete Solution to a Collective Problem

• EVAN MONTPELLIER the Concordia community. themselves. Others simply need tionally high numbers of incom- ministration should be regarded They want the semester to end, more time on account of the dis- pletes creates an additional layer of not merely as a gross dereliction of You’d be hard-pressed to find the strike to go away, and everyone ruption of their classes. labour for professors, again repre- their duty to serve the Concordia someone at Concordia who hasn’t to keep working as if the huge Submitting an incomplete senting the administration pawn- community, but as a willful refram- been affected by our four-week- problems posed by the strike don’t means negotiating with professors ing off their responsibility onto ing of a collective situation as a set long engagement with the strike in exist. to determine new due dates. The individuals. of individual conflicts. one way or another. By sidestepping their responsi- professor will then replace the INC Despite these problems, there The strike affects all of us and The administration’s job is os- bility to serve the Concordia com- code on the transcript with a grade are potential political benefits to constitutes a collective condition of tensibly to make sure things are munity in the face of a challenging when the assignments are turned adopting a mass application for in- students and faculty that warrants running smoothly at the university. situation, the administration is in- in. completes as a tactic to put pres- effort on the part of the administra- Considering how they’ve reacted to flicting collective punishment on As a tactic of dissent, mass ap- sure on the administration. tion to ameliorate. Instead, the ad- the strike, it’s not hard to realize students, with professors as collat- plication for incomplete grades is Personally, though, I think that ministration is promoting the same that their interpretation of eral damage. fraught with problems. Most sig- it makes more sense to stop think- values of individualization and “running smoothly” is a very As students scramble to find so- nificantly, students must pay the ing of incomplete grades solely as a consumerist social relations that unique one. lutions on their own, one idea that administration $20.00 for each in- political tactic, and start seeing underlie the tuition hike itself. Instead of trying to facilitate has emerged has been to apply for complete grade. them as a last-resort option that all This is a call to action: as Con- mutually-agreeable solutions for incomplete grades en masse. The For many students, the thought students are being forced to con- cordia students, whatever our role all those involved in the present process of getting incomplete of handing over more money to a sider because of the administra- within the university, we must or- conflict, the administration is hell- grades is a standard part of Con- hostile university bureaucracy is tion’s stubborn refusal to ganize around this point to hold bent on maintaining business as cordia’s grading scheme, and al- repulsive. The fee is also a huge po- accommodate the situation pro- the administration accountable. usual at the university, inflexibly lows students to negotiate later tential financial barrier to students, duced by the strike in any way. refusing to consider alternative so- deadlines with their professors if amounting to $80 or $100 for full- The administration’s attitude For a basic student-written lutions despite the extraordinary they don’t think they can complete time students who want incom- must be viewed as a political deci- guide to the hows and whys of circumstances created by the their work on time. pletes in all their classes. sion, particularly given that it holds incomplete grades, search strike. Students are currently consider- Effectively, the administration’s a stake in seeing the strike dissolve Concordia Incompletes on The admin’s approach is a text- ing applying for incomplete grades stance has forced all students into and the government’s tuition in- Facebook or go to fasoscon- book example of the shift in univer- for a variety of reasons. Some see individually deciding whether or crease go through unchecked. cordia.wordpress.com. An sity culture towards corporate the process as a way to honour not to literally buy time, either for In light of this conflict of unabridged version of this ar- management practices. Their con- their commitment to striking with- political or academic reasons. vinterests, the hostility and lack of ticle can be found at the- cern is clearly not the well being of out making academic martyrs of Meanwhile, dealing with excep- leadership coming from the ad- linknewspaper.ca. the link • april 3, 2012 thelinknewspaper.ca/ops opinions 15 Father Doesn’t Know Best In the Land of the Blind, Charest Is King Oral Panic

I have been in a relationship with my boyfriend for a year. We have great sex; I feel comfortable and love having inter- course with him. He is extremely gentle and tender with me. But, sometimes I don't like oral sex. Most of the time if he tries to go down on me I feel uncomfortable and nervous to the point where I feel I might cry. Other times, I will enjoy it for a little bit but then eventually want it to stop. I also feel nervous when he puts his mouth on my nipples. Why is this? —Sensitive Situation

First off, glad to hear you and your boyfriend seem to be doing good and that you’re having great sex! Yay you! So there are a few things I want to talk about. But first, if you don’t like oral sex, why do you do it? Receiving oral sex is about you, and your partner is probably trying to please you, so if you’re not loving it, then that’s a sign that you shouldn’t be doing it—especially because of the way you describe your feelings about it. I get the impression that you’re asking about this or not stopping because you might think there’s something more than just not liking it going on, which is completely possible. There’s no real way for me to know what exactly, but I can elaborate on some physical and psychological issues that can arise. On the physical side, I don’t have much detail on how it ac- tually feels for you, but it could be an issue of sensitivity and thus fear of not being touched right. Based on your question, I’m not 100 per cent sure which parts you have below the belt, but luckily, both apply. GRAPHIC PAKU DAOUST-CLOUTIER Both the clitoris and the penis can be extremely sensitive because of all the nerve endings, and some people require very • ELYSHA DEL GIUSTO-ENOS mands of a 21st century life and find cut down on Quebec’s bloated pub- specific pressure in order to enjoy themselves. Without that themselves needing a challenge, lic service departments. But instead exact pressure, it could be way too much when touched wrong. In the perverse macrocosm of looking behind the curtain more of there being a reduction in the 275 The same can go for nipples. If you also happen to be some- “father knows best” that is our cul- than tests their limits. But many government entities he inherited one who is ticklish, this can make things even harder, as both ture, we keep listening to the black- prefer to let the people who stand from the Parti Quebecois, he nearly require a certain loss of control on extremely sensitive parts of suited bureaucrats. In theory, their behind podiums, in front of flash- doubled them. your body. credentials and experience guide bulbs and beside corporate leaders So Quebec Finance Minister Psychologically, I’m not a psychologist and not qualified to policy-making, but realistically, pri- tell them what’s happening. Raymond Bachand is trying to solve diagnose, but I’ll throw a few ideas out there in case one clicks. vate interests rule the roost. We’re a society of baby birds government overspending by You should ask yourself if this is the first partner you’ve had The United States’ economic col- waiting for momma to chew the charging the population more. this problem with, if there’s a specific experience you associate lapse came about because of a num- worm first, because we’re tired, The most recent increase came with oral sex, or if you have any suspicions at all as to why this ber of factors, not least of which is we’re busy and isn’t it their job, any- from Quebec’s sales tax going up act would make you so uncomfortable. If so, reflect on those the unquestionable belief in power way? two per cent to 9.5 per cent in Jan- experiences. of logos and business models. So when someone whose job it is uary. Body image can also play into this. Are you insecure about It would be counter-intuitive to to know certain issues inside-out La Presse reported that Quebec either of these body parts? If so, it would make a lot of sense if think that a banker who deals in says we are headed towards finan- universities spent $80 million in someone’s face being right there made you nervous. mortgages and loans for a living cial ruin because students aren’t five years on advertising. If you feel like this might be psychological, even if you’re would issue ones that are destined shelling out enough cash—someone Do hospitals advertise? Does the unsure, I strongly recommend talking to someone qualified to fail. like Minister of Education Line fire department advertise? Adver- about it because you can’t always figure things out on your While religious-types may laud Beauchamp or Premier Jean tising a public service is pure budg- own. the virtues of blind faith, society at Charest—the knee-jerk reaction is etary farce, and it makes clear the When it comes down to it, I don’t have all the information, large seems to have embraced it in to listen. truth—universities have become and even if I did, I can’t guarantee I’d have the answers. So their dealings with corporations businesses. reflect on what I’ve given you and what you already know and governments. We’re a society of They don’t seem to be run ac- and hopefully you’ll have a better idea of what direction to Canada is not immune to mod- cording to business logic; however. take this in! ern symbols of authority; if a policy baby birds waiting for Concordia shelled out $3.1 million is spun the right way and delivered in severance packages for six de- by the right group of people, it is momma to chew the parting employees over the last few For help working through your sex-related fears, easy to believe—comfortable, even. years. you can always contact Concordia Counselling & De- But believing that those who lord worm first, because It seems like the Board of Gover- velopment. The Sir George Williams campus office is over us can see the big picture and we’re tired, we’re nors thinks the university’s coffers reachable at 514-848-2424 ext. 3545, and the one at have our best interests at heart is on are full of Monopoly money. Loyola is ext. 3555. par with children believing in Santa busy and isn’t it their From the eye of this mess it’s Claus. hard to tell what’s more disconcert- - Melissa Fuller In Quebec, the easy logic that job, anyway? ing—that our school system seems our tuition needs to go up is appeal- to be run by a pauper who thinks ing because of the template set by But right now, the curtains seem he’s Richie Rich, or that Charest’s Send questions [email protected] governments around us. Ignorance to be fluttering uncontrollably. Liberals have made this federalist and check out “Sex & Pancakes” on Facebook. is equated with bliss for a reason. When Charest’s government anglo Quebecer start considering For those who can juggle the de- took over in 2003, it promised to voting Parti Quebecois in 2013. the link • april 3, 2012 16 opinions thelinknewspaper.ca/ops

PHOTO ERIN SPARKS BUDGET COVERAGE SLANTED PENNY-WISE

• LAURA BEESTON unique accessible culture? How many students’ tuitions As the Conservative budget could be paid with the roughly came down last week, the media $70K the Liberals spent on was aflutter with the numeric de- Google Searches and tails as they emerged. Curiously, websites? Also, where the heck is there was one story in particular the heat on the rest of this that gained traction in the Cana- provincial budget? dian consciousness, and that was You’d think the public would the announcement that the cop- demand the same critical atten- per coin, our penny, is going out tion be given to the nebulous GRAPHIC MYRIAM ARSENAULT of circulation starting this fall. $160 million slated for the gov- It’s amazing the amount of ernment-administered “Fonds ink devoted to the death of the pour l’excellence” that will over- Bleu, Blanc, Maroon and Gold? penny when you think about it, see university targets, or as much especially considering the gov- nitpicking over the $530 million ernment laid out $5.2 billion in slated for programs. Befuddled Habs and ConU Admin Have a Few Things in Common spending cuts, axed 19,200 pub- Where is this analysis? Do we lic-service jobs, lifted regulations actually think the government is • ANDREW MAGGIO the once-mighty empire, going as and public relations. The same on natural resources and spent capable of handling this money, far as trading one of the greatest applies to our Board of Gover- $8 million targeting and regulat- considering they are the archi- At first glance, there isn’t goaltenders in the history of the nors, who consistently refused ing the dissent of oil opponents tects for a public debt that is out much Concordia University and NHL, , for what may interview requests from the and activists. of control? the have in as well have been a six-pack of media to explain their actions. But for whatever reason none Yet, time and time again, it’s common, except perhaps their Molsons and a bag of pucks. But above all, both flat out of these things—at least from a the $1,625 brought up without proximity to Lucien-L’Allier Concordia’s fall from grace sucked. cursory look at the front pages context. Metro. also began long before this dismal It’s painful for the previous and Twitter feeds of the Cana- Nowhere in the headlines will Look closer, though, and a scholastic session—once consid- generation of Habs fans to watch dian mass media—got as much you read that so-called under- strangely near-perfect parallel ered a major hive for student ac- their team fall from its perch as play as the penny. Why was that? funded universities account for emerges between the decline of tivism, the school has been on a the class of the NHL, and it’s Are we really that distracted by only 0.76 per cent of all of Que- the Habs and the undeniably downward spiral lately. painful for the younger genera- shiny objects? bec’s $400+ million deficit, and shameful year that Concordia has The Netanyahu riots in 2002 tions, who have never been In the grand scheme of all certainly free education is never endured. and huge payouts to departing ad- granted the chance to shed tears things monetary, this news was set up as a value against the Both are the laughing stock of ministrators over the past few of joy, to raise their arms in tri- perhaps worthy of a simple news nearly $5 billion in tax relief the their national counterparts. Both years tarnished the school’s umph, to watch their captain ac- brief, when you consider where government has given to corpo- are grossly overpaying for unpro- image. cept hockey’s holy grail and lift it our money is actually being rate and individual incomes ductive personnel, and will con- high above his head. penny-pinched. since 2000. tinue to do so long after they are Both are grossly It is also painful for Concordia It isn’t only in the realm of na- There is a serious lack of crit- gone (see Gomez, Scott and students, past and present, to be tional politics lately that little- ical number-crunching in this Woodsworth, Judith). Both have overpaying for shunned by those paid to create picture numbers like these province and in this country, and been the subject of a lot of bad an environment committed to dominate the collective conver- the penny is just another exam- press over the past couple of unproductive education and expression and sation about our news. ple of it. To a degree, perhaps it months. watch the university value dollars Take a look at the provincial makes sense: numbers aren’t ex- Now, however, both are cover- personnel, and will and strict, controlling gover- situation, for example; this en- actly media-sexy, and most peo- ing their tracks, looking forward continue to do so long nance over open-minded dia- tire tuition debate has inexplica- ple don’t like reading budgets. towards what they hope is a logue. bly hinged almost exclusively on But understanding our finan- promising future that begins by after they are gone This city has been in serious the $1,625 figure, but anyone cial dire straits is more impor- cleaning house and starting fresh. turmoil over the past year, and it who has been following the story tant now than ever, especially as Montreal Canadiens owner (see Gomez, Scott and seems to be culminating in an knows, in financial terms, that these budgets set our province Geoff Molson fired general man- end-of-season and end-of-semes- it’s about way more than that. and our country on a path of aus- ager Pierre Gauthier last week; Woodsworth, Judith). ter explosion. News of another It’s easy to typecast students terity that will have real social over the summer, Concordia will head rolling in a seventh-floor as spoiled and whiney brats if and cultural implications for our see much of its Board of Gover- ConU’s kept up the misman- Bell Centre office. Pepper spray you’re only looking at this situa- futures. nors turn over and likely a new agement, slamming the door in being unleashed on unsuspecting tion with a frame of two thou- It is time for us to make a con- president. the students’ faces with regards teenagers. sand bucks. This might also be certed effort to follow the money. The Habs’ decline into medioc- to the tuition hikes, unwilling to It seems like there’s a differ- why the bigger numbers at play This budget has proven how rity began long before Gauthier open any form of dialogue be- ent protest every other week—the haven’t taken to as much easy it is to throw around became GM in 2010. It began yond telling striking students to only one we know we won’t see is scrutiny or public cognizance. small figures and make a when Serge Savard and Jacques step away from the classroom another playoff riot. What about the estimated splash—especially shiny, copper Demers were ousted four games doors—or else. Let’s hope we’ve reached the 7,000 students over the next five figures—and this is dangerous. into the 1995 season, replaced by Gauthier disconnected him- end of this drama. This is our years who aren’t going to be able We must demand more of our two stiffs with no experience, self from the league’s most de- school. This is our team. This is to afford a post-secondary edu- government, our journalists and Mario Tremblay and Réjean manding but most passionate our city. It’s about time we make cation? And what’s the value on ourselves to get to the bottom of Houle. fanbase and often showed a lack that something we can be proud a 40-year history of Quebec’s these numbers. They began the destruction of of respect in handling players of again. the link • april 3, 2012 thelinknewspaper.ca/ops opinions 17 ACROSS DOWN 4. These salty streams are said to 1. This brand of smokes be shed by someone feigning sor- caught a lot of flak for their row—but who knows, there may ac- mascot Joe, who some saw as Noah’s R. Kelly Remix tually be some remorseful reptiles an attempt to market to chil- out there. (2 words) dren. The character was finally 6. Based on the life of Joseph axed in 1997, ten years after his Merrick, this film won the Best Pic- debut. (2 words) ture Oscar in 1980 along, with seven 2. Calvin Cordozar Broadus, other Academy Awards. Despite the Jr. is better know as this canine title, the film notes, “[He is] not an celeb, a West Coast rapper who animal! [He is] a human being.” (2 played Concordia’s orientation words) show a few years back. (2 9. Duane Chapman is one words) badass bail bondsman whose antics 3. This kids show from the you can catch on A&E. You proba- ‘80s has been slated for revival bly know him better by this nick- this year. Not bad, considering name, however. (4 words) that they’re a 30-year-old fran- 11. This is what happens when chise that originated as greet- the crotch of a lady’s pants rides up ing card characters. (2 words) and leaves little to the imagination. 4. Considering this stage As a gentleman, I prefer to refer to name, Steve Irwin’s death from them as ‘dromedary digits.’ (2 the usually docile stingray was words) both tragic and completely un- 12. An idiom for a valuable but expected. (2 words) onerous possession, the term origi- 5. In this 2006 film, Samuel nates from stories of Siamese kings L. Jackson may have had it gifting these sacred but impractical with the “motherfucking” ser- pachyderms to those they disliked pents on the “motherfucking” in order to ruin them through up- aircraft, but in actuality, his keep costs. (2 words) contract prevented him from 13. This American cable channel getting within 25 feet of any is often slammed for being conser- live specimens. (4 words) vatively biased rather than remain- 7. In this card game, players ing neutral when reporting political use deception and foresight to issues. (2 words) get rid of their hands before 14. This vessel that God commis- their opponents do. Don’t get sioned in order to save two of every caught, though, or you pick up animal from his immanent flood is the whole pile. also your clue to this week’s puzzle 8. The titular ace pilot char- theme. (2 words) acter of Nintendo’s space 15. When playing craps, this roll fighter series. His allies include is probably the last thing you want. Skippy, Peppy and Falco, all When playing G.I. Joes, however, different animals who some- this ninja of the same name is prob- how all have their pilot li- ably your first choice. (2 words) censes. 16. These ursine confections are 10. This relaxation beverage BY CHRISTOPHER TAN a no-no for vegetarians and veg- is native to Quebec, and, as the ans—not due to their animalistic name suggests, brands itself as shape, but rather because they are a contrast to Red Bull’s fast made from the connective tissues of paced, high-energy image. (2 livestock. (2 words) words) [email protected] SPHR Defense curred after an SPHR event this tunity to respond to the false alle- be reached over the Facebooks. On March 13, the Jewish past fall semester. gations. On a completely different Tribune published an article enti- SPHR Concordia is made up of —Asma Alaribi, BSc Biology note, I just want to say what an tled “Back with a Whimper: Is- hardworking students who dedi- Sara Shaltony, BA Journalism honour it was to be the Current raeli Apartheid Week in cate long hours to ensure the ad- Solidarity for Palestinian Human Affairs Editor of The Link this Montreal,” written by Daniel vancement of its mandate. It is Rights year. I am incredibly proud of all Smajovits. therefore extremely unfortunate the people I had the pleasure of The article included a direct that defamatory statements are Link Lovin’ working with, and won’t single quote from Dana Remer, co-pres- undermining our efforts. To The Link editorial board, out any, except for our former Ed- ident of Concordia Students for Upon discovering this article, and Concordia as a whole: itor-in-Chief, Laura Beeston, who Israel, in which she accuses Con- we reached out to the co-presi- I have two things I need to busted her ass for every single cordia’s Solidarity for Palestinian dent of CSI in the hopes of gain- write about. issue. Human Rights of having access to ing some clarity on the situation. The first is that several issues I spent many sleepless nights external finances and resources Remer stated that her words were ago, The Link published a letter with the good people at this news- as “the people that work with taken out of context and assured from Bruno Joyal, fishing for a paper, ate many fast-food meals [SPHR] are not in school any- SPHR that she would contact the date (“Looking for Love,” Vol. 32, because we can’t afford better, more.” Jewish Tribune to correct the Iss. 22). Stunningly, he appar- and who has the time anyway? I Though we understand that misinformation that had been ently got six or seven responses. also got to drink many beers, The Link’s letters and opinions policy: The deadline for let- the author is entitled to his own published. Seeing as how I’m chronically and have many arguments, resolve ters is 4 p.m. on Friday before the issue prints. The Linkre- opinions regarding the events We have since not seen any tragically single, I will now at- those arguments, and generally serves the right to verify your identity via telephone or surrounding Israel Apartheid changes to the article. In the tempt the same. have the time of my life. email. We reserve the right to refuse letters that are libel- lous, sexist, homophobic, racist or xenophobic. The limit is Week, we cannot accept the li- meantime, we hope that this is an Look, I’m awesome. If you’ve Thanks all of you, and to the 400 words. If your letter is longer, it won’t appear in the belous accusations made against isolated incident and we await the read The Link all year, you’ve new masthead, good luck. Be paper. Please include your full name, weekend phone num- SPHR. These comments were pending retraction. probably had a chance to see how bold, be tough, and don’t take any ber, student ID number and program of study. The comments made irresponsibly, given the In addition, we regret the au- awesome. So there’s that. I want shit from anyone. in the letters and opinions section do not necessarily reflect —Adam Kovac, those of the editorial board. constructive and transparent dia- thor’s failure to contact SPHR someone equally awesome. That’s logue with Remer that had oc- Concordia and give us an oppor- my only qualification. I can best Former Current Affairs Editor the link • april 3, 2012 18 opinions thelinknewspaper.ca/ops Barton Flats COMIC JONATHAN WOODS

False Knees COMIC JOSHUA BARKMAN

Nah’msayin? One Doesn’t Simply Use a Meme

There was once a time where you had When everyone and their uncle can to do very specific things to be exposed to put them together with a few keyboard memes. Say, if you were pwned in game of strokes and an emoticon, there isn’t Counter-Strike, or deep into some forum much stopping all your unfunny Internet for a weird, way-too-specific hobby. But friends from posting them about every lately, you need not even so much as click meaningless menial moment in their on a mouse to experience these simple lives. viral jokes—they’ve even made it onto our Your lame joke won’t benefit from goddamn protest signs. some text in Impact font and an overused Now, I can take a joke as well as any- picture. Either you’re funny or you’re not. one, but the trouble with the extreme pop- If you’re not funny, a meme can’t save ularity of these one-pane-wonders is that you. You’re just ruining it. I’m now forced to digest shitty memes My Facebook feed isn’t 4Chan. Please, wherever I go. for the love of God, let’s keep it that way. I’m forced to cry out, to my own dismay, “Y U NO leave it to the funny peo- - Colin Harris ple!?” Coordinating Editor GRAPHIC JOSHUA BARKMAN the link • april 3, 2012 thelinknewspaper.ca/ops opinions 19 editorial Starting Over

• JULIA WOLFE ernors who treat students like petulant children. (It’s tougher to This has not been a great year squander our money when you re- for Concordia. spect us.) And please, for the love Our school spent huge bags of of God, make sure each and every money firing administrators—so member understands the phrase much money that even the notori- “term limit.” ously corrupt Quebec government While our BoG members have accused Concordia of financial a huge impact the image of our es- mismanagement and slapped the teemed university, we need to school with a $2 million fine. watch the throne. The president And in at least one case, ConU sells Concordia abroad, extracts forgot why the people they fired money from wealthy benefactors were let go in the first place and and generally sets the tone of the rehired them to teach French. administration. Top that off with some very un- Our presidents of late have not happy unions and some just as exactly been the winners we de- unhappy striking students and serve. Instead, we’ve got a position you get a pretty good picture of the that has a faster turn-around rate public relations nightmare we’ve than a Defense Against the Dark been stuck in. Arts job and a payout that leaves a But when you hit rock bottom, bad taste in the mouth of any stu- you can only go up, right? dent being told to pay their “fair Next term marks a year of new share.” beginnings for ConU. We’ll have a Aside from monetary gain, it new president, new student union would be great to have a president GRAPHIC PAKU DAOUST-CLOUTIER and our Board of Governors will who cares about the school rather finally remember that the Shapiro than personal benefits. With a president like Woodall, shoes to fill. support staff. report, which outlined suggestions Still, if we’re going to assess the who clearly cares about each and Though not perfect by any These unions stood with stu- for improving the university’s gov- administration, we need to be fair. every student at this school, Con- stretch, the current CSU exec and dents when we filled the streets. ernance, called for more than just Things are not entirely rotten in cordia might actually foster the re- council accomplished a lot. They For all of next year, they will be the slashing student representation. the state of Denmark. spectful, open dialogue that has so shot down a shady student centre ones fighting for a fair deal from As Board of Governors Chair The culture of contempt that far been so elusive. deal, threw one of the cheapest an institution that’s being, well, as Peter Kruyt and his many minions rains down on the student body As well, while we often dis- and most sustainable orientations stubborn as an ass in its refusal to finally release their sinewy grip on hasn’t spread to all administra- agree with Provost David Concordia has seen and over- budge. our hearts and wallets, Concordia tors. Current Dean of Students Graham—particularly regarding hauled their bylaws in a major Students must demand that can work to undo some very bad Andrew Woodall’s commitment to his handling of the strike man- way. Plus, there’s the small matter our professors, teaching assis- press that has made us the laugh- students and genuine compassion dates—we appreciate that he al- of the historic strike. tants, librarians, steelworkers and ingstock of Canadian universities. is exactly what this university—or ways makes time to chat and Now Laforest’s team is looking every other essential member of But like any good spring clean- any university—needs. places value on transparency, un- at a year rife with contract negoti- this university are compensated ing, it’s only effective if after the While many higher-ups have like the Board. ations and legal battles. Not as properly. Goodness knows our ad- purge we don’t fill the attic with treated students, specifically our While we’ll most likely have to sexy as a strike, but vital nonethe- ministration is. more junk again. union, with terrific disregard, wait until August to hear who the less. Now is the time when Concor- So when replacing this crop of Woodall consistently addresses university picks for the top job, we As they fight to increase stu- dia brass has a chance to put governors, let’s try to avoid a few students with respect: you won’t do already know who our next stu- dent representation and detangle the people who will make a differ- mistakes of the past. find many other admins referring dent union will be. our school from the Canadian ence into power. It’s time for No more governors who prior- to CSU President Lex Gill as “one To President-Elect Schubert Federation of Students, we ask this university to rise from the itize corporate interests over the of the most intelligent people [he Laforest and the rest of A Better that they sustain a powerful ashes of crippling mismanage- interests of the university. No gov- has] ever met.” Concordia: you’ve got some big relationship with the faculty and ment and start anew.

Volume 32, Issue 25 editor: (514) 848-2424 x. 7405 Tuesday, March 20, 2012 arts: (514) 848-2424 x. 5813 Pungenance & Flagons Concordia University ads: (514) 848-2424 x. 8682 Hall Building, Room H-649 fax: (514) 848-4540 CONCORDIA’S INDEPENDENT NEWSPAPER 1455 de Maisonneuve Blvd. W. business: (514) 848-7406 Montreal, Quebec H3G 1M8 editor-in-chief community editor The Link is published every Tuesday during the academic year by The Link Publication Society Inc. Content is independent of the university LAURA BEESTON PIERRE CHAUVIN and student associations (ECA, CASA, ASFA, FASA, CSU). Editorial policy is set by an elected board as provided for in The Link’s constitution. news editor photo editor Any student is welcome to work on The Link and become a voting staff member. The Link is a member of Canadian University Press and Presse JULIAN WARD ERIN SPARKS Universitaire Indépendante du Québec. current affairs editor graphics editor Material appearing in The Link may not be reproduced without prior written permission from The Link. ADAM KOVAC ERIC BENT managing editor Letters to the editor are welcome. All letters 400 words or less will be printed, space permitting. The letters deadline is Friday at 4:00 p.m. assistant news editor JULIA WOLFE The Link reserves the right to edit letters for clarity and length and refuse those deemed racist, sexist, homophobic, xenophobic, libellous, or JACOB ROBERTS creative director otherwise contrary to The Link’s statement of principles. fringe arts editor OPEN Board of Directors 2011-2012: Clare Raspopow,Justin Giovannetti, Laura Beeston, Adam Kovac, Julia Jones; non-voting members: Rachel Boucher, ALEX MCGILL fringe arts online editor coordinating editor Julia Wolfe, Dan Delmar. JULIA JONES Typesetting by The Link. Printing by Hebdo Litho. COLIN HARRIS lifestyle editor webmaster OPEN Online and print contributors:Benjamin Allard, Myriam Arsenault, Josh Barkman, Laura Beeston, Peter Chauvin, Joe Cornfield, Erika Couto, DAVID MURPHY sports online editor business manager Richie Daly, Julia Jones, Adam Kovac, Stephanie La Leggia, Dylan Maloney, Evan Montpellier , David Murphy , Chris Olson , Sam Slotnick, Christopher RACHEL BOUCHER Tan & Jonathan Woods DAVID KAUFMANN copy editor ad designer ALEX MANLEY ADAM NORRIS opinions editor distribution Cover By Paku Daoust-Cloutier HILARY SINCLAIR (ACTING) ROBERT DESMARAIS DAVID KAUFMANN