GLISH LA EN NG S U A’ A W G A E T S T Volume 73, Issue 4 | Sept. 13–19, 2012 T

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Faculty of Graduate and graduate.carleton.ca Postdoctoral Affairs 3 LETTERS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Kristyn Filip | [email protected] | (613) 562-5261

Changing the world GLISH LA EN NG ’S U A A Got something to say? W G Re: “Scared for the future” (Opinions, Sept.6.) A E T S T T O U

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T thefulcrum.ca something—Technology? School? Music? Movies? Television?—it Letters deadline: Sunday at 1 p.m.

veered into a disappointing whine about children with bad man- Letters must be under 500 words unless discussed with the Editor-in-Chief. ners and incompetent parents. Unfortunately, in order to change Fed up with our generation the course the world is on, we will need more than respect, de- Drop off letters at 631 King Edward Ave. cency, tolerance, and manners. We also need to stop respecting being referred to as narcissis- or email [email protected]. things like the “corporate right to profi t” and we need to stop being in awe of people who hold big bank accounts. We need to tic? Curious as to how social Letters must include your name, telephone number, year, and program of study. Pseud- respect the environment and the non-human creatures that live contents media use among students onyms may be used aft er consultation with in it. We need to stop accepting that our leaders are waging wars the Editor-in-Chief. We correct spelling and that destroy people on both sides. We need to adjust our priorities. has changed over the past grammar to some extent. Th e Fulcrum will Perhaps if we could manage that, children would have better role exercise discretion in printing letters that are News 5 | Arts 9 | Features 12 models all around. few years? Head over to the deemed racist, homophobic, or sexist. Sports 15 | Opinions 19 | Editorial 23 Susan Turansky thefulcrum.ca for exclusive We will not consider hate literature or libel- lous material. Th e Editor-in-Chief reserves stories and features. the authority on everything printed herein. Sink or swim 5 A researcher at the U of O Writer? Illustrator? Photographer? looks at sperm We want you here at the Fulcrum! PostSecret 9 Join us for a staff meeting on Thursdays, 1pm, at 631 King Th e Fulcrum talks to Post- Edward Ave. Secret’s Frank Warren

It’s the white building. It says FULCRUM on it. Underage & engaged 12-13 Abria Mattina shares her story And the award for the most dedicated Fulcrumite goes to... Meet a Gee-Gee Ma T. T. & Sweet Feibs 19 We talk with one of our Ultimate Frisbee players You done good, boys. You done good.

Editorial 23 Advertising Department Board of Directors Th e editors of the Fulcrum Th e Fulcrum, the University of Ottawa’s independent, English-language student newspaper, is published share their secrets Deidre Butters, Advertising Representative by the Fulcrum Publishing Society (FPS) Inc., a not- email: [email protected] for-profi t corporation whose members consist of all University of Ottawa students. Th e Board of Directors Check out our rate card online. Go to (BOD) of the FPS governs all administrative and Th eFulcrum.ca and follow the link for business actions of the Fulcrum. BOD members “Advertisers.” include Mercedes Mueller (President), Jesse Willms (Vice President), Ben Myers (Chair), Michael Robinson (Vice President Internal Communications), Ben Multi-market advertisers: Mitchell, Jaclyn Lytle, Sean Campbell, and Jonathan Campus Plus: (800) 265-5372 Rausseo . Campus Plus off ers one-stop shopping for over 90 Canadian student newspapers. To contact the BOD, email [email protected].

Th e Fulcrum is a proud member of To contact the FPS ombudsman regarding the Fulcrum’s Canadian University Press: editorial practices, please email ombudsman@ www.cup.ca thefulcrum.ca. Th e ombudsman is an impartial party not employed by the corporation who has the power to investigate and pursue a resolution on your behalf.

5 NEWS EDITOR Andrew Ikeman | [email protected] | (613) 562-5260

Mayor to host youth summit City to invite local youth to have a say in municipal decisions Andrew Ikeman | Fulcrum Staff riers,” said Fleury. “We are looking for dent, is excited to see the new summit the participants and also for the city staff come to Ottawa. he mayor of Ottawa to come together, and then come back “It’s a gateway,” said Campbell. “It’s is opening up the with fi ve to 10 very tangible things we doors of City Hall can implement.” In the lead-up to the summit, the “ and giving the mayor is also holding a photo contest “We want to get people, T called Youth Pic Ottawa, and is asking French, English, from all city’s youth a chance to have their voices heard local young photographers to take pic- demographics, from [the U of tures they believe best represent the city. O], Carleton [University], La by their local government. Th e photo contest will be facilitated by Cité [Collégiale], Algonquin Mayor Jim Watson will be Child and Youth Friendly Ottawa, and the submitted photos will be displayed [College], people in high hosting a youth summit on in City Hall on the day of the summit. school—a full range [of Friday, Oct. 12, open to all “[Youth Pic Ottawa] is designed to students].” youth between the ages of engage young people to take a picture of 16 and 25. The summit is what they think their Ottawa represents,” [being] able to tell the very heart of the said Watson. “It is a creative way to get administration in this city what exactly modeled after last year’s young people—through their lens and [needs to be] done to help things and to seniors’ summit that was their eyes—to tell us what they think of have things fi xed.” chaired by the mayor. Ottawa. It could be a picture of a home- Watson also emphasized that the less person on Rideau Street, or the Cen- summit is meant to bring together young “Th e purpose is really straightfor- tennial Flame on Parliament Hill, or people from all over Ottawa, and will ward: we want to try and engage young hopefully serve to better the relationship people from all spectrums of life,” said between the city and its youth. Watson. “Street kids, student council “ “We want to get people, French, presidents, rural kids, people in the ur- “[Youth Pic Ottawa] is designed English, from all demographics, from ban core… and fi nd out how we can do to engage young people to [the U of O], Carleton [University], La a better job of meeting their needs and take a picture of what they Cité [Collégiale], Algonquin [College], expectations.” think their Ottawa represents.” people in high school—a full range [of Th e mayor has named ward 12 coun- students],” said Watson. f cillor—and University of Ottawa alum- their friends at a restaurant—it’s really up ni—Mathieu Fleury as the honorary to them what they think best represents Registration for the summit, which is chair of the summit. Fleury is looking their view of Ottawa.” limited to 200 participants, opened on forward to hearing what the youth of Ot- Students at the U of O will be able to Sept. 10. You can register at ottawa.ca/ tawa have to say. attend the conference and give their in- youth and submit photos to cayfo.ca. Th e “Th e idea is for us to better understand put on the state of the city. Sean Camp- event will be broadcasted live online, [youths’] needs, and what they see as bar- bell, a fourth-year honours history stu- illustration by Mathias MacPhee and the Twitter hashtag is #ottyouth. HESA releases university research rankings U of O fourth in science and engineering

Jesse Mellott | Fulcrum Staff oft en. “It can be quite diffi cult to have access n a recent report by to research that is done in your language the Higher Education of choice or language of study,” said Tai- va Tegler, external commissioner of the Strategy Associates Graduate Students’ Association of the (HESA), the University University of Ottawa. “A lot of the mate- I rial that is being used will be in English, of Ottawa ranked fourth and unfortunately that is a reality and a in research in the science barrier to our francophone students. It and engineering faculties, can be a restricted choice, and a strategic and 20th in social sciences choice, to further advance your academic career.” and humanities. Meanwhile, Dean Claude Laguë of Th e report, entitled “Measuring the U of O’s faculty of engineering said Academic Research in Canada: Field- he was very pleased with the U of O’s Normalized Academic Rankings 2012” fourth-place ranking in science and en- accounts for the discrepancy between gineering. the two fi elds by pointing out that pub- “Th e vast majority of engineering and lications in the sciences and engineer- computer science professors will publish ing—even at a francophone school—are in English, regardless of their fi rst lan- done primarily in English. A key indica- guage,” said Laguë. “Th at is not just true tor of how successful an insitution is at in Canada, it’s true all over the world. If photo illustration by Mico Mazza research is based on citations, not just you want your work to have an impact other large universities. the university, and great news for Ot- photonics and geo-science teams. Fitted on how many articles an institution pub- [and] to be accessible not just in Canada “The University of Ottawa is quick- tawa.” with state-of-the-art technologies such lishes, but how oft en other scholars cite a but around the world, publishing in Eng- ly becoming a science and engineering President Rock ended the statement as mechanically isolated laser labs and given work from that institution. In the lish is pretty much a necessity.” powerhouse,” said Rock. “It’s great to by saying, “Th is month, I will be break- Canada’s largest accelerated mass spec- humanities and social sciences, where In a statement to the Fulcrum, U of O see another report recognizing the ing ground on the [U of O] Advanced trometer, the ARC will ensure we remain publications are written in both offi cial President Allan Rock said he was proud calibre and hard work of our [U of O] Research Complex (ARC), a world-class a science and engineering powerhouse languages, those in French are cited less of how the university stacked up against researchers … This is good news for research facility for our world-class for years to come.” f 6 | news thefulcrum.ca | Sept. 13–19, 2012 Ontario student aid goes online to reduce waits OSAP now digital

Darryl Gallinger | The Lance indsor (CUP)— Ontario’s student Wfi nancial aid service is going digital. The Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) is, for the fi rst time, transferring funds to post-secondary students electronically instead of requiring them to wait in long lines at their institution’s fi nancial aid offi ce.

Marian Doll, director of Student Awards and Financial Aid at the Univer- sity of Windsor, said this will aff ord ad- ministrators more time to help students. “As opposed to going through the mo- notonous process of releasing loans every day, we’ll be dealing more with students who have a problem that we have to deal with,” said Doll. Doll said her offi ce handles 130–150 “ “If the system can support Students will soon be able to receive their OSAP funds electronically what [the fi nancial aid offi ce] needs to do in a very short “It’s great that they’re fi nally entering OSAP. Th e funds will transfer to the uni- tem can support what [the fi nancial aid time frame … I’m going to say the 21st century,” said Travis Reitsma, versity when classes start, tuition will be offi ce] needs to do in a very short time an English undergraduate student at the deducted from that amount if the student frame … I’m going to say seven business Clark Kent, seven business days, which is University of Windsor. “Th ey should has agreed to that, and any remaining days, which is a fairly conservative esti- a fairly conservative estimate, have been doing this for the last decade.” amount will be transferred to the stu- mate, students should see the funds start Peter Parker, students should see the funds In order to facilitate their move on- dent. to fl ow into their bank accounts without start to fl ow into their bank line, OSAP has introduced the Master Doll hopes that funds will reach stu- ever having to step foot in here.” Lois Lane, accounts without ever having Financial Student Aid Agreement (MF- Reitsma said he would like to see the SAA), a lifetime loan contract. As long as government releasing funds before the to step foot in [the fi nancial aid the student doesn’t allow more than two school year begins to help students pay and you. “ “It’s great that they’re fi nally offi ce].” years to elapse between full-time studies, for their books and other necessary ex- the agreement will follow them to what- entering the 21st century.” penses. requests from students per day regarding ever institution they’re attending, and “I’ve gone into October, sometimes Write for news. fi nancial aid. Around 50 per cent of full- even on to graduate studies. dents sooner as a result of the change to into late October [before receiving OSAP time students at the University of Wind- Once the MFSAA has been processed, the online system. funds]. It’s never reliable; you never know email [email protected] sor apply for OSAP annually. students will continue to apply yearly for “Th at’s the goal,” she said. “If the sys- when you’re going to get it.” f

Turning Point Are we angrier now?

Andrew Ikeman | News Editor were feeling angry. Student protesters Canadian politics getting angrier than was founded on the ideal of fi ghting for We once saw days when politics was were angry over the government’s new it used to be? Th is question was once freedom. not angry in Canada, where members BEFORE I START this week’s column, I tuition hikes, and anglophones were an- an aft erthought, spurred on by the days Since the turn of the century, com- of opposing parties would debate each would be remiss to not say to the families gry at the idea of separatists coming into of Chrétien manhandling protesters, mercials attacking politicians have be- other all day, and then head to the bar for of the Montreal election night shooting offi ce once again. Th is election saw anger or Trudeau watching the 1968 St. Jean come the norm—even when there is no a round of drinks. Th ere are now whips— victims, our hearts go out to you. Baptiste Day riots; but in those cases, the election in sight. Th e idea is simple: at- a party member responsible for ensuring Th e shocking shooting—which took prime ministers’ anger was perceived as tack your opponent until their reputation the collective voting of a party—in the place as Pauline Marois, the Premier- “ strength, with both men appearing as is tarnished, and then attack some more. Senate, a place that is meant to be free of elect of Quebec, was taking the stage to “My version of politics is strong leaders in the face of struggle. Th ese attack ads are now commonplace, party politics. deliver her party’s victory speech—came a meeting of the best and Th is new wave of anger can be linked While I don’t see an end to the divi- at a time when the crowd was celebrating brightest a country can offer: to our ties with the United States, whose siveness of politics, I can’t help but won- a win that would resonate in the minds people who meet to discuss tendency to be angrier about politics ““Since the turn of the century, der, can we at least make it less nasty? My of Canadians, especially Quebecers, for a is showcased by their tally of political version of politics is a meeting of the best long time. Th e win signifi ed an end to the policy, and can work together assassinations—dozens, compared to commercials attacking and brightest a country can off er: people Liberal government in Quebec, who had despite their collective Canada’s humble four assassinations that politicians have become the who meet to discuss policy, and can work been in offi ce for almost a decade, and the differences. Naive?” took place in Canada. Some say the dif- norm.” together despite their collective diff er- start of a new separatist government. ference in anger level between the United ences. Naive? Maybe, but my naiveté is Going into the election Quebecers boil over, and in the worst way possible. States and Canada can be traced to the but at one point they were limited to our better than politics governed by con- on either side of the issue of sovereignty Th is tragic event begs the question: Is States’ roots—the American way of life neighbours to the south. tempt, fear, and anger. f thefulcrum.ca | Sept. 13–19, 2012 news | 7

The Sink or swim? Professor questions fi ndings of sperm studies Debrie ing Andrew Ikeman | Fulcrum Staff and I—was to investigate the method- ologies used to select the data,” said he long-held theory Deonandan. “What we found … Liberal leadership hopefuls face stricter budget that the quality was that there is a bias in the way the data was selected. Th at bias OTTAWA—ON THURSDAY SEPT. 6, the Liberal Party announced new and quantity of tends to be in the countries it spending guidelines for its upcoming leadership race. Candidates may sperm produced was chosen from. So generally spend up to $950,000 over the course of the contest, roughly a quarter of T sperm banks tend to exist in by the average male is the 2006 contest’s $3.4 million limit. Mike Crawley, the party’s president, wealthy, developed countries says that by lowering the amount candidates are allowed to spend, the par- decreasing may not be as … and those countries tend ty hopes to attract new ideas, which may not have been otherwise heard. accurate as once thought. to be very diff erent from Montreal MP Justin Trudeau is expected to run, but has yet to formally The methodology of the countries that are less devel- declare his candidacy. At the Liberal caucus retreat Th ursday, Trudeau said oped.” he believes he has something to off er the party. Th e contest will begin on studies—that looked into Deonandan also said that Nov. 14 and voting will take place until April 14, when the party will an- the quality of the sperm— lifestyle and environmental nounce its new leader. has been called into factors in developed countries —Elizabeth Th omas question by University of could likely be the cause of the decrease in sperm quality. He also Companies struggle to deal with beer shortage before Oktoberfest Ottawa researcher Raywat noted the increased use of soy—a Deonandan, who says pseudo-estrogen—and other things BAVARIA—BREWERS ARE DESPERATELY trying to encourage citizens the studies only looked that decay into estrogenic material. to bring in empty bottles to be refi lled in an eff ort to make up for yet another summer of increased sales due to warm weather and several recent festivals. at sperm in developed While the problem of low beer stocks is annual, companies are saying that nations, leaving much “ this year is the worst yet. Bavaria’s Oktoberfest is a world-renowned festival, sperm unexamined and “What we found … was and it seems likely that despite the brewers’ best eff orts, the shortage of this a gap in the argument. that there is a bias in key beverage will pose problems. the way the data was As a result, some brewers have admitted they will be forced to limit their “[Th e scientifi c] community has been production of certain types of beer, such as darker ales, much to the chagrin extensively collecting data … on semen selected. That bias tends of those with a preference for dark beer. quality,” said Deonandan. “Th e ways in to be in the countries it People who prefer wheat and light ales will be pleased to learn those types which sperm quality is assessed is by sev- was chosen from.” of beer are being prioritized in the production process, although this year eral things: fi rst is the amount of semen they may still come up woefully short. you produce, secondly is the amount of While Deonandan’s study is not —Krystine Th erriault sperm in the semen—therefore, the den- a definitive answer to why—or sity, third is the movement of the sperm, even if—the sperm quality is Ontario Liberals fall one seat shy of majority aft er byelections and last is what is called morphology, or decreasing, he recommends the shape of the sperm.” further research. TORONTO—ONTARIO’S LIBERAL PARTY fell one seat short of a major- Deonandan points to a study done “What we propose is that ity government aft er two byelections were split between the New Democratic in the 1990s by Elisabeth Carlsen, that someone needs to go and Party (NDP) and the reigning Liberals. Th e byelections, held in the ridings reported the quality of semen around investigate men living in of Vaughan and Kitchener-Waterloo, were needed aft er the resignation of the world was decreasing as being the truly non-industrialized MPPs Greg Sorbara, a Liberal; and Elizabeth Witwer, a Progressive Conser- instigator for the current belief. Th e parts of the world,” said De- vative (PC). data from Carlsen’s, and the subse- onandan. “If we don’t see the In Vaughan, Liberal candidate Steven Del Duca won the vote, beating out quent studies, was collected from sperm same trends there, then that PC Tony Genco, which prevented the Liberals from losing the seat. Mean- banks, which gather the data with each supports the idea that the mod- photo illustration by Kelsey Shore while, in Kitchener-Waterloo, NDP candidate Catherine Fife won in a tight donation. Deonandan, however, saw ern western lifestyle is contribut- race against PC Tracey Weiler, who placed second, and Liberal candidate holes in this logic. ing to [the decrease in semen Eric Davis. “What we decided to do—my student quality].” f Th e byelections resulted in the Liberals remaining at 54 seats, one shy of a majority; the PCs falling to 36; and the NDP climbing to 18. Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty conceded that while it was not the result the Liberals were hoping for, the government will continue to work What’s he building in there? with its fellow parties in the Legislature. Meanwhile, opposition leader Tim Hudak claimed the loss of the Kitchener-Waterloo riding to the rival NDPs was the fault of the unions who support the NDP. Bieber fever —Andrew Ikeman Tyler Shendruk | Fulcrum Contributor marily fun for Smith? but are part of his dia attention. So Smith? modifi ed tradi- Quebec election night gunman formally charged technique of using pop culture to focus tional models of infectious diseases by The problem public attention onto the science of infec- accounting for the media as well as fan MONTREAL—THE SUSPECTED GUNMAN in the Quebec election-night Th ere’s no getting rid of the microbes tious disease. boredom. He found that without the help shooting was formally charged last Th ursday on 16 diff erent off ences. The and viruses that infect us. However, like of the media, if fans get bored quickly, suspect, Richard Henry Bain, has been accused of murdering a stage techni- meteorologists with the weather, we may The project Bieber Fever must eventually die out. cian, Denis Blanchette, in the fi rst degree. not be able to completely control disease, Justin Bieber, the immensely popular Surprisingly, even a steady stream of Th e shooting occurred during a speech by Pauline Marois, the leader of but we can certainly forecast how infec- 18-year-old Canadian musician, has a positive media coverage isn’t enough to the Parti Québécois, following the election-night victory of the Parti Québé- tions are likely to spread and even pre- legion of pre-teen fans. So many, in fact, sustain a pandemic among fi ckle fans. cois. Th e back door of the venue, the closest escape for anyone near the dict the risk of a new threat becoming an that Smith? sees “Bieber Fever” as a highly Only staggered pulses of positive media shooter, was subsequently set on fi re using an accelerant and a fl are. Shortly epidemic. By studying new emerging or infectious pandemic. Smith? glibly points episodes can create a steady state of in- aft er the shot was fi red, on-scene police offi cers apprehended Bain, who was even imaginary diseases, we can know to exorbitant obsession and an extremely fected fans. wearing a bathrobe and a gas mask. ahead of time how future diseases will hit high rate of transmission when discuss- As a concerned citizen, you may ask, Since searching Bain’s vehicle and house, police have recovered 22 weap- humanity. ing Bieber Fever. Bieber’s Twitter account “How can we stop this epidemic and save ons from his possession, including the two they found on his person during gets a new follower every two seconds, and our children from such a terrible dis- the night of the shooting. Of the guns owned by Bain, 21 of them were law- The researcher Bieber is currently mentioned in approxi- ease?” According to Smith?’s model, not fully registered, including the one used in the shooting. Robert Smith? (the question mark is not mately one per cent of all tweets. Smith? even strong negative media events can Last Wednesday Sept. 5, Bain was taken to a hospital in Montreal to un- silent) is a mathematician in the depart- sees an analogy between the spread of halt the spread of Bieber Fever. Th e dis- dergo what was described as a medical evaluation. Th e hospital has not yet ment of mathematics and the faculty of Bieber fandom and the spread of a terri- ease only burns out if a continuous bar- stated whether it was for physical or psychiatric purposes. Although it is ex- medicine at the University of Ottawa who bly infectious disease. In fact, according rage of negative coverage exists to com- pected the defence will seek a psychiatric evaluation, the lawyer representing builds mathematical models to study the to Smith?, Bieber Fever may be the most bat positive media events. Is it a future Bain, Elfride-Andrée Duclervil, stated it is still too early in the case to make spread of disease. infectious disease of all time. possibility? Never say never. f a decision regarding such an evaluation. Smith? has studied HIV, West Nile —Wyatt Brakeboer virus, and malaria, as well as numerous The key Are you doing interesting science? fi ctional diseases. He received extensive But Bieber Fever isn’t like microbe-based Or do you have a professor who can’t media coverage of his studies of zombie diseases. Th e spread of Bieber fandom is stop talking about their research? Let outbreaks. Zombie pandemics are pri- tightly tied to positive and negative me- us know at [email protected]. There’s always room for one more...

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BEING OF ADVENTUROUS SOUL but of meek wallet, I will hereby spend less for my textbooks in order to save money for what can’t be learned from a book. 9 EDITOR Adam Feibel | [email protected] ARTS&CULTURE (613) 562-5931 ‘Just the act of sharing a secret can change who we are’ Founder of PostSecret.com opens up to the Fulcrum

Jane Lytvynenko | Fulcrum Contributor half and decided I will no longer be the person who carries that secret in her life.” pee in the shower. I love the story because it shows the It turns out Frank transformational power secrets have— how sometimes just the act of sharing a Warren, founder of the secret can change who we are. PostSecret project, I Is that what keeps this job interesting aft er does too. PostSecret all these years, the power of secrets? is an ongoing initiative Well, a lot of things keep it interesting. that asks people around Dark chocolate keeps it interesting, com- the world to write their ing to Ottawa keeps it interesting. But in some ways it feels like a calling. One of deepest, darkest secrets the most important things you can do on on a postcard and mail it this planet is give a voice to those people to Warren to be displayed who are unheard. on the website Postsecret. Your project has made a diff erence in the com. “I pee in the shower” lives of many people; reading PostSecret is the most common can be an eye-opening experience. How secret Warren gets. does it feel to be so important to so many? I’m very gratifi ed by it—it feels very On Sept. 7, Warren sat down with meaningful to me. When I was younger, the Fulcrum in his light purple dressing I needed the help, I needed to feel like I room beneath the Alumni Auditorium wasn’t alone, I needed to know that other to talk about PostSecret. Just 20 minutes people share my secrets too. As an adult, before he presented University of Ottawa now it’s twice as powerful, knowing that students with eight years’ worth of stories I’m kind of being there for the person I and secrets, Warren answered our ques- used to be. tions between bites of oversized straw- berries and dark chocolate. What would you say to someone who wants to share a secret but can’t? Th e Fulcrum: How have your presentations I think that we all have secrets to evolved throughout the years? share and I think beneath every se- Frank Warren: Th e most important cret is a deeper secret. I think Post- change has been me fi nding the right way photo by Jane Lytvynenko Secret is one option that people use to facilitate, with the audience, the con- Frank Warren, founder of PostSecret.com, speaks to University of Ottawa students to share a secret, but there are a versation they want to have. I’m always thousand others. You can tell a par- the most interested in the end, where the the audience. I feel like more and more people to share their secrets, I should that I never saw. I only found out about ent or a friend, a priest or a psychia- students take the microphones and share my job is just to facilitate that conversa- share some of my own. I think that’s the it through an email from a woman in trist. You can write it on a postcard their secrets, their stories, and I think tion. proper thing to do. Texas, who said, “I visited the PostSecret and mail it to me, or write it on a let- you’ll fi nd the audience members are less website and I was really inspired by what ter and then burn it. Sometimes the interested in what I have to say and more Do you share your own secrets? What’s your favourite secret? I saw, so I made a postcard. But it made most important person to share a se- interested in the truths they hear from I defi nitely feel like if I’m going to ask A favourite secret… It might be one me feel sick so I tore the postcard up in cret with is yourself. f O-Town still gets its hoedown Country music in the capital soldiers on with revamped, intimate festival

Spencer Van Dyk | Fulcrum Staff night,” Harris said. “But the weekend much by way of sponsors—that kind of from Moncton, N.B., a band that Harris second album. shows are always the ones that are more thing. It’s more of a showcase. People suggests attendees keep an eye out for. Jack Pine, another fi rst-time Hoedown ountry music highly attended, so I wanted to eliminate would want to come to this because it’s “I’ve wanted them to come to the Hoe- performer, said he is looking forward to fans should mark the in-between.” a lot more intimate; there’s no backstage down for years,” Harris said, “but it’s seeing some of his friends perform. Al- Ottawa’s larger-scale Capital Hoe- area, it’s just the bar, and we’re all hang- though he has been present at the Hoe- their calendars down event was cancelled in July due ing out before and aft er the sets.” down and even worked at it as an audio for the sixth to unexpected costs and zoning prob- Harris added that the series is an engineer for the past few years, this is his C lems. The festival was to take place ideal way for people to become better ““In previous years, the concert fi rst time performing there professional- annual O-Town Hoedown, a country music festival Aug. 10–12 and would have included acquainted with the Ottawa country series was a 10-day event. ly. He echoed Harris’s sentiment that the Taylor Swift, Brad Paisley, and Reba music scene. The relaxed and low-key But this year, organizer Greg event’s intimacy is its main draw. showcasing local talent for McEntire. An estimated 15,000 ticket atmosphere of the event allows for in- Harris—better known as Lefty “It’s all local, fi rst of all, or it tries to two consecutive weekends, buyers were refunded after the event’s teraction between audience and per- be,” Pine said. “I’d say it’s more focused collapse. formers. McRighty—has decided to within its genre than something like Folk Sept. 28–29 and Oct. 5–6. According to Harris, what stands out “A lot of people showing up in the city ‘tone down the hoedown.’” Fest or Bluesfest. It’s more focused on the In previous years, the concert series about the O-Town Hoedown is the inti- don’t really know what local bands are community and what’s going on in the was a 10-day event. But this year, or- macy of the event and its determination like,” he said. “So this’ll be a really great never really coincided with their tour city.” ganizer Greg Harris—better known as to showcase local talent. introduction for them. Half the musi- schedule until now. So that’s the show Due to minimal demand in previ- Left y McRighty—has decided to “tone “Th e big diff erence between this and cians in Ottawa are going to be playing, that I’m most excited for.” ous years, the O-Town Hoedown will down the hoedown.” other festivals is that we have the shows and the other half are just going to be in Another band to look out for is Ot- not be selling advance tickets this “In the past it’s always been a week- at regular music venues and bars,” he ex- the crowd hanging out.” tawa’s own Uncle Sean & the Shift y Drift - year. Those concerned that a particu- long aff air, and no matter how long the plained. “So it’s not a large-scale ‘festival’ All of the performers are local, except ers. Th e band’s gig at the Hoedown will lar concert may sell out should show festival was, there was a performer every like the others. Th ere are no vendors, not for two. One of those is Th e Divorcees also serve as a CD release party for their up early. f 10 | arts & culture thefulcrum.ca | Sept. 13–19, 2012 Folk Fest goes out with a modest, reserved bang Bon Iver and Dan Mangan offer heartwarming performances to close out festival

Adam Feibel | Fulcrum Staff he great thing about festivals is that you can see Ta large number of artists within a short period of time—a few days, or even hours—but it often comes at the expense of the overall atmosphere of each performance. That’s the trade-off: each show is much less intimate than a private gig would be. This can be even more of a drawback when you’re talking about artists like Dan Mangan and Bon Iver, whose intricate and dynamic styles fl ourish in an intimate setting.

Fortunately, that didn’t prove to be much of an issue for the headliners of the last two days of this year’s Ottawa Folk Festival. Vancouver’s bashful indie folk-rocker Dan Mangan headlined the full day of music Sunday, amongst other Bon Iver plays to a crowd of 12,000 people on Sept. 10, the fi nal and most heavily attended day of Folk Fest. photo by Justin Labelle notable acts like Patrick Watson, White- horse, Said the Whale, and John K. Sam- group’s two drummers boomed and ticular—to communicate with their gov- son. Bon Iver, this year’s Grammy win- snapped with improvised polyrhythms. ernment about environmental issues. ner for best new artist, closed the festival “So much good music here today. It’s “Everything is only in context to ev- Monday night, aft er performances by Th e been a pleasure and an honour,” Vernon erything that’s around it,” he said about Low Anthem, Anaïs Mitchell, and late said during one of the few times he spoke the song. addition Hey Rosetta! Tickets for both to the crowd. “I would just suggest if we want to keep Vernon commented on the chilly our leaves and trees and forests, maybe we weather that signalled Canada’s mer- should be in touch with the people who “ gence into autumn. run our country,” he continued. “Maybe “This is really cool. It’s really “Let’s go skating on the river; it’s prob- they should know about that stuff .” cool to be me right now.” ably frozen by this time of night,” he Mangan connected with his fans— —Dan Mangan quipped, despite hailing from Eau Claire, something that’s oft en sacrifi ced when Wis., a small city not much further down an artist’s audience reaches the mark the latitudinal scale than Ottawa. of 4,000 or so, as it did Sunday—by re- days were available to University of Ot- Dan Mangan took the stage a day ear- sponding to their own words and ac- tawa students for half price. lier, wearing his signature olive-green tions. Mangan told a fan, “I could beat Th e stage was set for Bon Iver, with collared shirt, neatly kempt beard, and the crap out of Chuck Norris,” aft er he rows upon rows of decorative lights and boyish grin. He and his six musical or she presumably suggested his rugged burlap hanging from the ceiling to refl ect henchmen picked up their instruments look resembled that of the renowned light. Th e massive crowd—the festival’s and built up a wall of sound before badass. biggest at more than 12,000 people— emerging with the carefully plucked Crowd participation during the screamed and hollered as it saw move- notes of “About as Helpful as You Can band’s extended version of “Robots” ment in the shadows of the stage, which Be Without Being Any Help at All,” the was heartwarming enough after mul- were quite obviously just sound techs smile-inducing introductory song to last tiple repetitions of “Robots need love making last-minute adjustments before year’s Juno Award-winning record Oh too / They want to be loved by you.” the band’s 9:30 p.m. set time. But at last, But then Mangan brought a handful of Justin Vernon—the founding member fans in robot helmets onstage to dance and face of the group—walked on and along, and flung himself into the arms ““So much good music here plucked those fi rst gorgeous notes of his of the rest of them. (Tip: next time latest album’s opener, “Perth.” today. It’s been a pleasure and you’re at a Dan Mangan show, dress Oft en referred to as great music to relax an honour.” like a robot.) or fall asleep to (most oft en by those who Th e 29-year-old’s vocal talent really couldn’t use the words “music” and “art” Fortune and an equally eff ective song to came through on his solo, “Basket,” and in the same sentence), Bon Iver defi ed its open his live show. the cold air only partially contributed to lullaby-like reputation by taking even more Luckily, weather conditions that the chills felt during “Regarding Death creative liberties with the already experi- prompted Environment Canada to issue and Dying” and his fi nale, “Jeopardy.” mental songs from last year’s Bon Iver, Bon a severe storm alert on Saturday didn’t Dan Mangan has had a great year. Th e Iver record and adding full-bodied, multi- carry over to Sunday. success of his third studio album cata- instrumental formations to Vernon’s solo “I hear the weather was nicer today than pulted him to the top of the Canadian work from previous releases. it was yesterday,” Mangan remarked. “I know indie-music tree, and his performance at Singalongs were at a high for older it’s a little cold, but you guys are fantastic.” Hog’s Back Falls housed more than four songs from Bon Iver’s fi rst record, For In fact, the air was cool and crisp, like times as many people as his last Ottawa Emma, Forever Ago, like the good but it was when the phenomenal Oh Fortune gig at the Bronson Centre. And with his overrated “Skinny Love” and the crest- record came out last fall. Mangan went shy and modest nature, he expressed it in fallen crescendo of “Th e Wolves (Act I into a little depth about the conceptual his own words. and II).” Th e percussion section really song, “Leaves, Trees, Forest,” and called “Th is is really cool,” he said. “It’s really shone during “Michicant” as one of the Dan Mangan headlines Folk Fest on Sept. 9. photo by Justin Labelle on Canadians—and Ottawans in par- cool to be me right now.” f thefulcrum.ca | Sept. 13–19, 2012 arts & culture | 11 movie reviews The Apparition Ghosts with Shit Jobs

THET POWER OF belief is a concept steeped in centuries of WHENW WE THINK of science fi ction movies, we oft en think pprovocative philosophical and theological thought. Why do ofo giant robots, advanced weaponry, and lots of explosions. ppeople believe in what they cannot see? Th e Apparition pres- GhostsG with Shit Jobs is not your typical sci-fi fl ick, but that entse itself as an inquiry into this belief. A supposed scientifi c doesn’td mean it’s not worth watching. Set in the year 2040, the theoryt propounded in the trailer states that paranormal enti- fi lm follows a group of Torontonians struggling to make ends tiest are given power by belief, and “once you believe, you die.” meetm aft er the collapse of the West. Th ey are forced to under- ExpectingE a thoughtful examination of the human condition is taket “shit jobs” that include baby making, silk gathering, and probablyp asking a lot of a modern horror fl ick, but the premise humanh spamming. In a world where the Chinese call the shots hash potential. anda technology has become a tool of manipulation, the main Unfortunately, the fi lm described above exists only in the charactersc are treated with disgust and neglect as they attempt two-minutet trailer. Instead of intense psychological horror, tot tackle their jobs and, in turn, obtain food and water. moviegoersm are subjected to something far more cruel: hav- Th e fi lm is set up as a documentary, with the Chinese in- ingi paid to see Th e Apparition. Th e plot follows a collection terviewingt those who have to live with next to nothing while ofo college students who attempt to recreate a paranormal ex- puttingp everything into their jobs. Ghosts with Shit Jobs makes periment and summon a murderous spirit. Th e fi lm is a deteriorating patchwork of elements from the recent the audience question whether some people are treated fairly and given credit for doing the jobs no one else swath of exorcist fi lms and theFinal Destination series, but without the sense of fun or any sort of coherency. will. Th e fi lm also examines the dangers of the jobs, which can prove fatal. Th e issues of minority and class Nonetheless, there are a few reasons to see Dark Castle Entertainment’s malformed movie. You might be come up in our current society as well, with the same result: the further down you are in the chain, the less a fan of Tom Felton, the guy who played Draco Malfoy in the Harry Potter fi lms. Maybe you find lines like people seem to care. “Your house killed my dog” hilarious. Perhaps you’re a fi lm professor looking to provide an in-class example Ghosts with Shit Jobs opens viewers’ eyes, thanks to a brilliant technique on the part of the directors: of how not to make a horror fi lm, in which case Th e Apparition is the perfect movie to infl ict upon your by creating another world, they force us to examine our own. It’s a bold move, but it most certainly pays students. off. —Eric Wilkinson —Rebecca Mason bad reviews Only you can prevent forest fi res. email [email protected]

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ACCORDING TO STATISTICS Canada, the average engagement lasts 18 months. Th e age at which Canadian couples choose to marry has been rising steadily for years, and is now 29 for women and 31 for men. More people are choosing not to marry at all, but to live and potentially parent in common-law relationships. Couples who choose to become engaged or marry while they’re still students are considered to be circus freaks by many of their peers. My fi ancé and I are two such “circus freaks” who decided to buck the trend of waiting to put a ring on it, simply because getting engaged felt right. We’ve been en- gaged for two and a half years, and likely will be for at least another two, until we can aff ord to get married.

Going against the grain I’ve always liked the idea of a long en- gagement. Watching couples get engaged aft er a year of dating and tie the knot six months later always made me feel uneasy, because the decision seemed so rushed. An engagement period of about fi ve years sounded good to me—aft er several years of dating, of course. My instincts appear to be right. Ac- cording to the Centers for Disease Con- trol and Prevention in Atlanta, Ga., 48 per cent of couples who marry before the age of 18 are likely to divorce within 10 years. My fi ancé and I were only 20 when we got engaged, but by waiting to offi cially tie the knot, our union should— statistically speaking—be more likely to succeed. By waiting until the age of 25 to become husband and wife, couples re- duce their chance of eventual divorce by as much as 24 per cent.

True love Still, some said we were too young and not ready, but for me, it felt right. I met my fi ancé Dan when we were fi ft een. We were close friends before we began dat- ing, so there wasn’t much of a “getting illustration by Mathias MacPhee to know you” phase, and it wasn’t long before we began having serious conver- didn’t view getting engaged as a level up getting engaged was one I embraced out have you as my son-in-law” still confuses to be. Th erefore, people are postponing sations about where our relationship was towards adulthood, as a status symbol, of respect for my parents’ values. Asking me. Th e key phrase, it seems, was “I think marriage until everything in their lives is heading. So much about the future is or as a way to improve our relationship. for their blessing demonstrated that their you guys are a little young,” by which my working ‘in order.’ Th e order means aft er uncertain when you’re a teenager, but we Neither of us wanted to prove something opinion was valuable and that we wanted father actually meant, “Th ere’s no way in you’ve fi nished your education, perhaps were in agreement about one thing: we by having a wedding. We wanted a mar- to share this moment with them. Because hell I’m condoning this right now.” Dan, aft er beginning your career … they’re were in it for the long haul. riage. they were accepting and supportive of already nervous, didn’t exactly help mat- postponing marriage until they think It was an unspoken fact of our relation- our relationship, it never occurred to me ters by including this gem: “I mean, if they’re ready for it.” ship that we both expected to one day end that they would be opposed to our en- it doesn’t work out we can always break My parents were worried that focusing up married to each other, probably with gagement. up… Right?” It’s no wonder his pitch on our dedication to each other at such a kids—white picket fence optional—but ““[My mother] worried that Th e problem was the timing. My par- didn’t inspire confi dence. young age would compromise our dedi- we didn’t begin to talk seriously about getting engaged at such ents were fi ne with Dan and I getting My mother had diff erent concerns. cation to other pursuits, such as educa- getting engaged until the fall of 2009. a young age would attract engaged—when we were 25, at least. Ap- She worried that my getting engaged at tion. Our engagement wasn’t prompted by a unwanted attention.” proaching them for their blessing when such a young age would attract unwanted But like naive young people, we be- spontaneous proposal; it was preceded by we were 20 was a bit ahead of their sched- attention, and people might gossip about lieved all we needed was love and a months of discussion and of approaching ule, and they didn’t like it. why I was in such a rush to grow up. A good relationship to make it work. Th e the same conclusion from many angles A father’s blessing The process was very traditional. pregnancy scandal, even a fake one, was naysayers seemed like such a minor ob- until we were both comfortable with our Dan and I received mixed reactions to Dan approached my father when the the last thing my family wanted. stacle. decision to move forward. the news of our engagement, and some rest of the family was elsewhere and Th e concerns my parents shared all Family and friends usually react dif- people did have negative feelings about it. told him that we were thinking of get- had to do with timing. Dan and I were Moving forward ferently to the news of a young engage- Our friends exhibited wary enthu- ting engaged. According to Dan, this still in university, and Dan was on the It hurt that my family wasn’t support- ment than they would to an older couple siasm. Th ey weren’t worried about us conversation went very well. My dad verge of dropping out to attend culinary ive of our engagement, at least initially, with the same announcement. Th ey tend breaking up or rushing into things; they shook Dan’s hand and said he would school. On paper, he looked like a pretty but it didn’t really change anything. I’m to assume the couple’s motivations are were afraid that being engaged would be proud to have him as a son-in-law, risky gamble. a woman of the 21st century, enjoying suspect because, unlike people in their turn us into wedding-obsessed bores. and the rest of the evening progressed In his book Th e Marriage-Go-Round: more freedom and independence than late twenties and beyond, they aren’t nec- Dan and I had made a decision that most normally. Then Dan went home, and it Th e State of Marriage and the Family in any other generation of women have. essarily in a life stage that lends itself well of our friends probably won’t make for all fell apart. America Today, author and sociologist My father does not own me. My parents’ to marriage. Dan and I were motivated another fi ve to 10 years. It has been established since then that Andrew Cherlin writes that individual- blessing was something I’d sought as by the same reasons as older couples: we Th e worst reaction, however, came there were multiple miscommunications ism is one of the reasons couples are de- a way to pay them respect, but I wasn’t were in love and wanted our relationship from the fi rst people we spoke to: my on both sides of the exchange between laying marriage. going to arrange my life around the de- status to refl ect our goals and commit- parents. Dan and my father, though how one could “People are more concerned with their sires and schedules of other people. On ment. Despite what others thought, we Th e idea of asking permission before mistake the meaning of “I’d be proud to own self-development than they used December 31, 2009, barely a week aft er thefulcrum.ca | Sept. 13–19, 2012 features | 13

Pros and cons of getting engaged before

Pro: People take you seriously When someone introduces their boyfriend or girlfriend, there’s no way of knowing if the relationship will still be intact by next week. When you introduce your fi ancé(e), people are much more respectful of what is obviously a committed relationship.

Pro: Enjoy not being parents Unless you’re getting hitched because of an unplanned pregnancy, you can look forward to a few years to enjoy each other without the responsibilities of parenting getting in the way. You’re still young, so there’s no rush to have kids before your biological clock runs out.

Con: Budget Con: You’ve got growing up to do Getting married is expensive, and being engaged while Th e period between age 18 and 25 is fi lled with changes, and you’re still establishing a career will either mean a long en- committing to a relationship while you’re still forming your gagement or a small, simple wedding celebration. adult identity may mean you outgrow your relationship.

graphic by Kyle Hansford Dan’s conversation with my father, we could say or do would change that. Also, “Do you have a ring? Let me see it.” riage.” It was simply “marriage,” since then instead of in 2009, I think they would got engaged. I dreaded having to tell them in person. Th e knowledge that they couldn’t undo the median age at first marriage was 19 have been much more willing to give it. Hamilton, Ont. isn’t much to look at Facebook to the rescue. the past made them, if not more accept- for women and 21 for men. The post- Since then, things have changed. My in the daytime, but sitting on the edge of And nothing happened. For months. I ing, at least less vocally opposed to our war marriage boom of the ‘40s and ‘50s family has been through a lot this year, the escarpment just before midnight, we thought I’d gotten off scot-free, that my engagement. We didn’t talk about it again may have been a contributing factor to and sweating the small stuff just isn’t a took in the city lights and the stars over sister had simply ‘liked’ the status change the divorce boom of the ‘70s, but those priority anymore. My mother casually the bay. Dan proposed with a love letter, and, like the coolest sibling ever, had kept who tied the knot during that period refers to our wedding in conversation, and I said yes. it to herself. It wasn’t until I went home “ don’t seem to have any less confidence and it’s no longer a sore spot or a point “You didn’t even look at the ring,” for a visit the following summer that my “The problem was the timing. in marriage today, or any qualms about of debate. he said aft er. Th e ring could go hang. I mother said, “Why does Dan’s Facebook My parents were fi ne with the age of the couple. I don’t regret getting engaged at a wanted him. say you’re engaged?” She said it so calmly, Dan and I getting engaged— young age, but I also recognize that Dan so casually, that I knew I was in the deep- when we were 25, at least. Finding peace and I are in the minority. Most people in How they found out est sort of trouble. Worse, we were in a My parents came to Ottawa for Christ- university are neither ready nor willing My parents found out about the engage- car at the time. Th ere was no escaping Approaching them for their mas in 2011. At the time, I had lived with to commit to a lifelong relationship, let ment through Facebook. Sounds like this conversation. blessing when we were 20 was my fi ancé for nearly two years, but this alone take the preliminary step of getting the punchline to a bad millennial joke, “Because we are,” I said, my life fl ash- a bit ahead of their schedule, was the fi rst time I would be hosting my engaged. Although it does create a divide doesn’t it? Dan and I had been engaged ing before my eyes. and they didn’t like it.” parents. between us and our single or casually for about a year and a half before he “When did that happen?” The visit marked the first occasion dating friends, Dan and I are happy with changed his status on Facebook to refl ect “New Year’s Eve… Before last.” for quite a while. my parents and I met as adults. I was our choice. that. “So, right aft er your dad and I said The reactions of our extended fami- a host, they were guests, and the power Th ere is only one thing I would have “Should I?” he asked before making no?” lies tell a story about how the percep- dynamic that existed throughout my done diff erently: I wouldn’t have asked the change. “Your sister is on my friends “Yep.” tion of young marriage has changed childhood and adolescence was sud- for my parents’ permission. I didn’t need list.” And then she surprised me. “Huh. in Canada during the last 70 years. denly gone. it, and it put unnecessary strain on my My response was the product of two Well that didn’t stop you.” Aft er 21 years Our grandparents, who were all mar- “You’re so settled,” my mother re- relationship with them. I’m grateful fundamental personality fl aws. First, I of dealing with my stubbornness, she ried with at least one child by the time marked, looking around our home. We they accept it now, because I’m running was always the type of child who would seemed to accept that I wasn’t going to they were 23, didn’t see a problem with weren’t in a dorm. We weren’t in a grungy out of ways to explain the simplicity of rather beg forgiveness than ask permis- change. Her timing was perfect. young engagement. They even came to tenement, cooking Kraft Dinner on a hot- our engagement. I just know I want Dan sion. Second, I am notoriously bad at My dad, who had been the more anx- our defence when others criticized our plate and sleeping on the fl oor. Dan and I to be the one I have shouting conversa- delivering bad news. I fi gured the dam- ious of the two when Dan and I had fi rst decision. had carved out a real home for ourselves, tions with when we’re both old and can’t age was done; we’d been engaged for asked for his blessing, was suddenly en- For our grandparents’ generation, and seeing that is what brought comfort to remember where we put our hearing quite some time and nothing my parents thusiastic. there was no such thing as “young mar- my parents. If we’d asked for their blessing aids. f off for $ 5

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Visit us us at at Mobilicity: 173 Montreal Rd Mobilicity: 168 Rideau St Mobilicity: 246 Bank St 15 SPORTS EDITOR Maclaine Chadwick | [email protected] | (613) 562-5931 Varsity blues Men’s football team struggles on the road

Spencer Van Dyk | Fulcrum Staff he men’s football team has suffered its second Tconsecutive loss. After a discouraging 63- 18 defeat at the hands of the University of Windsor Lancers on Sept. 3, the Gee-Gees again fell short on Sept. 8, with a 47-36 loss to the York Lions.

Gee-Gees head coach Gary Etcheverry summarized the reason for his team’s loss simply. “In three words: lack of explosive- ness,” he said. “We had dead legs. I don’t know whether it was the transi- tion from our training camp, or maybe it was a combination of the long trip and the humidex, but this week we don’t expect to have the same lack of explosion that we had in virtually every component of our game against Wind- sor.”

“ “‘In three words: lack of photo illustration by Mico Mazza explosiveness,’ [head coach to consider in the Ottawa-Windsor loss. the season goes on.” by the pressure on [our quarterback, ter, but then they went down the fi eld and Gary Etcheverry] said.” Fourth-year Gees running back Brendan Etcheverry said the Windsor quar- Aaron] Colbon. We left touchdowns on scored,” explained Etcheverry. “I think Gillanders was injured in the fi rst quar- terback’s talent and good rhythm the fi eld.” we did improve in some areas, but our Th e Gee-Gees did manage to gain a ter and was unable to return to the game. with his receivers were key factors in Even though the Gee-Gees have players have to continue improving and fast start in this past weekend’s game Rookie Mack Tommy took his place and the team’s win, and that despite the been successful against the York Li- talking amongst themselves and we’ve al- against the York University Lions, earn- ran for 78 yards and scored a touchdown loss against the Lancers, the Gee- ons in the past, with a 65-12 win last ready started it right here. Certainly, our ing them a 21-7 lead at the end of the fi rst on 14 carries. Gees have a great opportunity to im- season, they were unable to make a team can do better.” f quarter, but it didn’t last through the sec- “He’s a tough nut and he was going prove. comeback from their second quarter ond quarter, as the Lions scored a series hard at training camp,” said Etcheverry “Obviously there is a lot to improve last Saturday and ended the game with Th e Gee-Gees will host their of touchdowns, including an 85-yard of Tommy. “He played more than expect- on,” Etcheverry said. “And I think our a close 47-36 loss. home opener against the Mc- score. ed today because of Gillanders coming off ence has the most room for improve- “Th e killer was when we pinned them Master University Marauders on Th ere were, of course, other factors out, but he’ll be an emerging guy for us as ment. Th e number of passes was aff ected in their own end early in the fourth quar- Saturday, Sept. 15 at 1 p.m. Breaking ground A look at barrier-busting female Gee-Gees coaches and athletes

Kristyn Filip | Fulcrum Staff Take Suzanne Chaulk, for example. the program now is far diff erent. We used Chaulk reports attitudes toward women’s tained bachelor degrees in political sci- If not for Chaulk’s tireless work and to pile in the car and go play—it was a lot rugby have changed for the better over ence and in education from the U of O ON FRIDAY, AUG. 24, 17-year-old dedication to the sport, women’s rugby like club rugby. Now there is very focused time. in 1998 and 1999 respectively. She then Erin DiMeglio became the fi rst female may very well not exist at the University recovery and regeneration aft er every “We are seen as athletes. We are went on to receive a masters of arts de- quarterback in Florida high school his- of Ottawa. Chaulk, who is the head coach game. [Th e team is] very focused on their seen as top-level athletes playing gree in political science from the Uni- tory. DiMeglio is not the fi rst female high of the team, founded the program in 1991 nutrition program, and it’s a very, very competitively,” she said. “When the versity of Montana. schooler to play football in her state—re- and has brought her team to the playoff s diff erent game. It is a year of preparation [men’s rugby team] watch us, they re- Most recently, Hannah Sunley-Pais- cords indicate 523 teenage female Flo- every single year since. to play six weeks of rugby.” spect us.” ley, who dominated the world of univer- ridians have donned football gear since Chaulk says the women playing rugby Th e players from 20 years ago have Chaulk isn’t the only woman who sity women’s basketball with the Gees 1973—but no other woman has ever held today at the U of O have a diff erent mind- been replaced with athletes, but time has done groundbreaking work for fe- from 2007 until 2012, was named the the prestigious position of decision-mak- set than the women who took to the fi eld hasn’t been able to break all of the bar- male Gee-Gee athletes. Nathalie Côté, CIS player of the year for women’s hoops. er for her high school team. Although 20 years ago. riers women experience in the world of part-time coach of the Gee-Gees cross- Sunley-Paisley is the fi rst woman in Gee- DiMeglio wasn’t able to play for more “When I fi rst started this program, rugby. country and track and fi eld teams, is the Gees history to win a major CIS award for than a few minutes—the game was called we had players. No disrespect for them, “[Women] still don’t get the coach- most accomplished individual-sport basketball, and she also became the fi rst off early due to heavy lightning in the but they weren’t necessarily people that ing jobs, and it’s still a pay-to-play model female athlete in U of O history. She is Ontario University Athletics east-divi- area—her barrier-smashing time on the had that athletic focus. Now they are all for women at the national level, so there a seven-time Canadian Interuniversity sion recipient of the Nan Copp Award—a fi eld got us thinking about some of our athletes,” she said. “Th ey all think like is still a lot of hurdles to go over,” said Sport (CIS) champion and the only fe- player of the year award selected by the university’s own groundbreaking female athletes, walk like athletes, and talk like Chaulk. male athlete in CIS history to win three CIS Women’s Basketball Coaches Asso- athletes and coaches. athletes, so the things we do with them in Despite the remaining obstacles, straight cross-country titles. Côté ob- ciation—since 1996. f 16 | sports thefulcrum.ca | Sept. 13–19, 2012 Hey, that’s my elliptical! Gym etiquette for the uninformed Kristyn Filip | Fulcrum Staff h, September. The air is cooling, the leaves are Achanging, and assholes are storming the University of Ottawa’s gyms in record numbers. After an idyllic four months of relative peace and quiet at both the Minto Sports Complex and Montpetit facilities, the gyms are once again packed to the bursting point with students. While I certainly don’t mind waiting my turn to use the workout equipment— an infl ux of gym-goers at the beginning of the school year is only to be expected—it’s sharing the space with students who are of the “born in a barn” variety that really grinds my gears. In a very likely futile attempt to eradicate the rudeness from the U of O gyms, I present the

following: a few rules I photo by Justin Labelle think even the most well- The perfect place to workout—not to pick up mannered of gym-goers Frustratingly, some gym-goers seem well past your allotted time slot, only lingering on the mats, or chatting at the could be reminded of. to think the rules of the sign-up sheet to eat into the next person’s precious water fountain for a prolonged period ““If you’re fl irting at the gym, do not apply to them. Th ese people will 15 minutes. To make matters worse, of time. Essentially, you’re getting in ev- You must obey the sign-up sheet hop on machines prior to consulting the chances are you’re hovering the gym can be a noisy place, and if erybody’s way. If you want to fl irt with Whenever you enter the gym, consider sheet, or they will disregard the time they alongside the machines, you’re inside one and talking on the someone, go to a bar. Granted, gyms and the sign-up sheet your new religious text signed up for, saying to the next person lingering on the mats, or phone, you likely need to scream to bars do have a lot in common—they’re and follow its rules carefully. For anyone in line, “I’ll be right off ! I only have five be heard. Not only can everyone in both full of hot and sweaty people, for in- who has yet to go to a gym and is read- more minutes left .” Don’t be one of those chatting at the water fountain the area hear your entire conversa- stance—but trying to pick up at the gym ing this article preemptively—and hats people. Th ose fi ve minutes don’t belong for a prolonged period of time. tion, but they’re all likely willing you is a surefi re way to piss off everyone in off to you, if this is the case—the sign-up to you. Essentially, you’re getting in to shut up. Oh, and using a cellphone the vicinity, including the person you’re sheet is located at the front desk of both everybody’s way.” while working out is a great way to trying to attract. No one feels sexy while gyms. Every exercise bike, Stairmaster, Leave your cellphone in your locker seriously injure yourself, so unless working out—and if you do, you’re not elliptical, and treadmill is listed on the Or at home, or in your pocket, or town of Fort Lee, N.J. went so far as to you’re into torn muscles and unsight- doing it right—so do us all a favour and sheet—or whiteboard, to be correct—and virtually anywhere on Earth, but ban texting and walking—cellphones ly bruises, don’t do it. practice the art of seduction somewhere in order to use any of the aforementioned please—please—don’t bring your can be extremely distracting. If you’re else. machinery, one must check the availabil- cellphone into the workout area with too busy chatting or typing to pay at- The gym is a fl irting-free zone ity of said machine and then sign up for a you. As made evident by laws that ban tention to the clock on the wall, you If you’re fl irting at the gym, chances are Wipe down your equipment 15 or 30 minute time slot where possible. cellphone usage while driving—the could very easily occupy a machine you’re hovering alongside the machines, No ifs, ands, or sweaty butts about it. f

foolproof fi tness Say ohmmm! Beat back-to-school stress with yoga

Ailey Korneychuk | Fulcrum Contributor of serotonin can cause swings in ap- enue they explored was the practice of but in energy, well-being, and anxiety as are diff erent yoga classes held at Mont- petite, energy, sleep, mood, libido, and yoga. We know that practicing yoga re- well. Yoga naturally rebalances chemi- petit and at the Minto Sports Complex DIVING BACK INTO the classroom cognitive functioning. In extreme cases, quires a person to hold diff erent physical cals within the brain and allows sero- at a student rate, but keep an eye out for may shock and startle the systems of a low levels of serotonin can result in sui- postures and poses, and that the aim is to tonin to equalize, which helps to alleviate free sessions held on campus by check- university student, especially those who cidal thoughts, a phenomenon that is rebalance the mind, body, and spirit. To the symptoms of anxiety and depression. ing out the group fi tness page of the still have summer on the brain. As fl ip- perhaps particularly dangerous for the the fi rst-time yogi these poses oft en seem As university students, we are im- Sports Services website. fl op tans fade and thought patterns be- overworked and easily isolated univer- pointless, awkward, or just plain stupid, mersed in a balancing act of academic Finding a yoga practice that’s right gin to shift to deadlines and exams, it is sity student. but what occurs with consistent practice obligations, the demands of a part- for you may mean having to take a trial not uncommon for students to experi- Until recently, the only solution to is an elimination of toxins, an increase in time job, family functions, romantic and error approach. This could take ence symptoms of low serotonin in the increase low serotonin levels was drug muscle development, and improved sta- relationships, and the ever-important some time and exploration, but it’s brain—commonly referred to as anxiety therapy, but the drugs developed were of- bility in your mind and body. Th is is due social life. You may be wondering how worth it in the end. With so many op- or depression. ten found to be either ineff ective or inef- to the release of gamma-aminobutyric you could possibly fi t anything else into tions to choose from, finding a practice Symptoms of anxiety and depression fi cient for a generic patient audience. acid (GABA), a chemical in the brain that your schedule. But don’t worry—nowa- that will suit both you and your sched- can be seen in every six out of 10 uni- Unsatisfi ed with the mixed results is known to regulate active nerves. One days, practicing yoga regularly does not ule should be no problem. So put those versity students, and is caused by low or garnered by drug therapy, researchers German study found that women who require you to travel to India or adopt Lululemons to work, get your GABA irregular levels of serotonin in the brain. have begun to look for diff erent answers practiced yoga for three months reported a deeply spiritual lifestyle. In fact, you flowing, and breeze through midterms Not only does it bum you out, but a lack to the low serotonin question. One av- improvements in not just stress levels, don’t even have to leave campus. Th ere anxiety free. f thefulcrum.ca | Sept. 13–19, 2012 sports | 17 Meet a Gee-Gee From the Kaylee Sparks | Women’s Ultimate Sidelines Maclaine Chadwick | Fulcrum Staff Not just for the “Meet a Gee-Gee” takes a look at the peo- ple under the jerseys. Whether they’re var- boys sity athletes or otherwise, we ask the play- ers questions you want answers to. We get Maclaine Chadwick | Fulcrum Staff tempt to win his attention by becoming the dirt, straight from the horse’s mouth. a cheerleader, Becky “Icebox” O’Shea’s My inspiration for suggesting the heart found its way back onto the fi eld— I SAT DOWN with Kaylee Sparks, “Breaking Ground” piece came from she pulled off the most epic comeback in fourth-year translation student and co- reading about Florida’s Erin DiMeg- fi ctional Ohio peewee football history, all captain of the women’s Ultimate Frisbee lio—the female high school senior who while wearing a skirt. team, to learn about one of the newest decided to join the boys’ football team competitive clubs at the University of Ot- and is currently rocking the eye black as Ye Shiwen tawa. Fun fact: in summer 2010, Ottawa third-string quarterback. At only 16 years old, this girl outswam was the Ultimate Frisbee capital of the What a baller. fellow medalist Ryan Lochte, completing world. So I got thinking about other fabulous the last 50 metres of the 400-metre race females in sports and came up with a seconds faster than he did and setting a Th e Fulcrum: When did you start playing few of my favourites—both real and fi c- world record. Of course, allegations of ultimate Frisbee? tional—who have said “Screw you, gen- doping ensued, but Shiwen passed her Kaylee Sparks: I started playing in fall der norms” and played with the boys. If drug test. Even if she hadn’t won, being 2005. you’ve been struggling to fi nd some in- a teenager at the Olympics is cool enough spiration to get moving, check out the on its own. Is it something you planned on playing Kaylee Sparks (pictured kneeling) in action photo by Justin Labelle following chicks who kick ass at their when you came to the U of O? sport. Julie Gaffney from The Mighty Ducks Kinda, yeah. It’s only a competitive club, sold, so you don’t get paid a lot. British Columbia and us, so when we go She isn’t the only strong female charac- it’s not like varsity. Some people were like to Boulder we play the best teams and Cassie Campbell ter in Th e Mighty Ducks series, but Julie “Why are you doing that?” But I love it. Is this something you want to keep doing then hike a mountain. My obsession with Cassie Campbell “Th e Cat” Gaff ney’s quick glove is what aft er you graduate? peaked around the time she was cap- won the Ducks a gold medal in the fi nale Do you think it should be varsity? Absolutely. It’s pretty big in Ottawa—we What is something that most people don’t tain of Canada’s 2002 gold-medal win- of the second movie. You’re welcome, I think it would be cool, but it would re- had the biggest league in the world at one know about you? ning women’s hockey team, but it fi rst Coach Bombay. quire a lot of work. point. Th ousands and thousands of peo- I’m a huge language nerd. I get really ex- started aft er I learned that she played ple play it, and the competitive scene is cited when people have discussions about boys’ hockey until she was a teenager. I Hayley Wickenheiser Does the team have any rivals? pretty big at the club division for Ottawa. language, and I love making up words. got to meet her when I was 12, and told Teammate and co-captain of the afore- Queens [University] is a big one. We met her that it was the best day of my life. mentioned Cassie Campbell, Wick- them last year in the Eastern Canada What is the coolest thing your team has Who is your idol? Since then I’ve had other pretty great enheiser has not only won medals for fi nals, and they always give us a really pulled off ? She is actually a professor at the U of O; days, but I still think Cassie Campbell Canada four times, but played soft ball good game. Well, we go down into the States a lot most people don’t know how amazing she is super legit. in the Summer Olympics as well. More where our big competition is—we don’t is. Her name is Alison Flynn, and she’s a recently, Wickenheiser was digitized What would you say is one of the top mis- really compete here [in Canada] as much. science professor, but she is also one of Becky O’Shea from Little Giants (like a boss) into EA Sports’ NHL 13, conceptions about your sport? So one time we all went down to San Di- the most amazing handlers (which is like Despite her infatuation with adorable the fi rst of the game’s series to feature A big thing is that it isn’t a sport, or that it’s ego, but our coach and captains got stuck a quarterback) in Canada. teammate Junior Floyd and a valiant at- female players. f something that you play with your dog. It here so we had to take care of everything has nothing to do with dogs. We get that a ourselves. What is the best thing about being a Gee- lot. It’s almost like football but played with Gee? a Frisbee and without contact. Where is the coolest place your team has We get to wear cool swag! But it’s really gone to play? great to be a part of the school like this. Do you want to go pro? We have gone to Boulder, Colorado twice We represent the Gee-Gee brand and we SCOREBOARD Honestly, not really. Th ey just started do- in a row. We really enjoyed going there. support the school. f ...... ing a pro league in the states called AUDL Th at’s where the college national cham- [American Ultimate Disc League]. No- pionships are, and only the top 20 teams If you have a suggestion for an ath- body really gets paid for it; even in AUDL in North America go. Th e only teams that lete you would like to see interviewed, soccer (W) they only get paid for how many seats got have gone from Canada are University of email [email protected] Gees 3 Nipissing 0 “I know there’s an easy joke in here somewhere. Just bear in mind, I’m not Gees 0 Laurentian 0 one to pursue a cheap pun.” next game: sept. 15th @ carleton

–Maclaine Chadwick Fulcrum sports editor rugby (W) Gees 44 Montreal 14 next home game: sept. 16th vs laval football Gees 36 York 47 Gees 18 Windsor 63 Write for sports! next home game: sept. 22nd vs rmc email [email protected] for full game reviews check out thefulcrum.ca 18 | features thefulcrum.ca | Sept. 13–19, 2012

Want your event listed on the thryllabus? Email [email protected] thethryllabus Music Sept. 20: The Word Alive, Upon Theatre Sept. 16: Women’s hockey: Gee- a Burning Body, Like Moths to Sept. 20: Pulp Fiction plays Gees play the Collège Édouard- Sept. 13: Rise Against, The Gaslight Flames, Torn Apart By Wolves, at the Mayfair Theatre Now–Sept.29: Stones in His Pockets Montpetit Lynx in an exhibition Anthem, and Hotwater Music play CE and Kill For Change play Ritual (1074 Bank St.), 9:30 p.m. plays at the Gladstone Theatre game at the Minto Sports Complex Centre (4699 Uplands Dr.), 6 p.m. (137 Besserer St.), 6 p.m. (910 Gladstone Ave.) (801 King Edward Ave.), 2 p.m. Sept. 21: The Perks of Being a Sept. 14: Texas in July, The Glass Sept. 20: Rococode, Rah Wallfl ower released to theatres Sept. 15–Oct. 6: Hay Fever Sept. 21: Women’s hockey: Gee- Cloud, Onward to Olympas, and Rah, and Alexy play Café Dek- plays at the Ottawa Little Gees play the University of Wa- One Year Later play Mavericks cuf (221 Rideau St.), 8 p.m. Sept. 21: Celeste and Jesse Theatre (400 King Edward Ave.) terloo Warriors in an exhibition (221 Rideau St.), 6 p.m. Forever plays at the Bytowne game at the Minto Sports Complex Sept. 21: Cauldron and Fly- Cinema (325 Rideau St.), 7 p.m. (801 King Edward Ave.), 7 p.m. Sept. 15: Arboretum Fest at Ottawa ing Fortress play Mavericks Sports Jail Hostel (75 Nicholas St.), 10 a.m. (221 Rideau St.), 7 p.m. Sept. 22: Men’s basketball: Gee- Visual art Sept. 15: Men’s football: Gee- Gees play the Loyalist College Lanc- Sept. 15: Tenement plays Baby- Gees home opener against ers in an exhibition game at Montpe- lon (317 Bank St.), 10 p.m. Film Now–Sept. 16: Like Father, Like the McMaster University Ma- tit Hall (125 University Pvt.), 6 p.m. Daughter displayed at the Cube rauders at Beckwith Park Sept. 17: A Bullet For Pretty Sept. 14: 10 Years re- Gallery (1285 Wellington St. W.) (1319 9th Line Beckwith Rd.), 1 p.m. Boy, Everyone Dies in Utah, leased to theatres Harp and Lyre, All Fallen An- Now–Sept. 16: Haycock dis- Sept. 16: Women’s rugby: Gee- gels, and Borders play Club SAW Sept. 15: Compliance plays played at the Cube Gallery Gees play the Université Laval (67 Nicholas St.), 6:30 p.m. at the Bytowne Cinema (1285 Wellington St. W.) Rouge et Or at Matt Anthony Field (325 Rideau St.), 9:05 p.m. (801 King Edward Ave.), 1 p.m. Sept. 19: Onyx, Snak the Rip- Now–Sept. 30: The Price of Sex per and Bishop Brigante play Sept. 16: Superman III plays displayed at La Petite Mort Gallery Babylon (317 Bank St.), 9 p.m. at the Mayfair Theatre (306 Cumberland St.) (1074 Bank St.), 2:30 p.m. Sept. 19: Beach Day plays Zaphod Beeblebrox (27 York St.), 9 p.m. Sept. 19–23: Ottawa Interna- tional Animation Film Festival

The Fulcrum would like to thank the following sponsors for contributing to our silent auction. Apple Sadlery University of Ottawa Offi ce of the Kundstadt Sports Ottawa International Animation Festival Ombudsperson Laurier Offi ce Mart The Draft The Lieutenant’s Pump The Acadian House Ottawa Little Theatre T.A.N. Coffee Maxwell’s Bistro and Club Spectrasonic The Royal Oak Laurier Lucas Nault Hair Studio University of Ottawa Sports Services Dunn’s Famous Deli Elgin Street Diner St. Louis Bar and Grill And to everyone who came out and bid on prizes, thank you. 19 OPINIONS EDITOR Sofi a Hashi | [email protected] | (613) 562-5258 An outsider’s perspective on Ottawa From Irish country gal to Canadian city slicker

Martina Gannon | Fulcrum Contributor helpfulness and a distinct politeness. It’s almost as if you could do them the worst ountless students wrong and they would end up apologiz- at the University ing for it. Upon my arrival here, so many things of Ottawa that were normal to Canadian students Ccould write this were foreign to me. Sororities, fraterni- outsider’s perspective— there are so many non-Canadians living ““All Canadian stereotypes I’ve in Canada’s capital. ever heard have been affi rmed This cultural and ethnic by the majority of people I’ve diversity was one of the met who welcomed me with fi rst fascinating things that helpfulness and a distinct politeness.” struck me about Ottawa. I ties, red party cups, American football, come from a rural town in and ice hockey games were all new and the west of Ireland, where thrilling experiences. about 95 per cent of the Despite having been in Ottawa for less than a week, I have already learned population is Irish and so much about the vast diversity that Caucasian, so Ottawa was this city has to offer, especially from quite a culture shock for me. my housemates, who all happen to be international students. I have gar- No two people are in any nered a wealth of insider knowledge way similar, and I love it! In on global stereotypes, French and a strange way, this diversity Spanish curse words, English slang, and, most importantly, international makes me feel more at drinking games. My house is like an home; I’m not the only one incessantly hilarious Lost In Transla- who is experiencing a world tion scene. I can’t help but feel like a sponge here. entirely different from what Admittedly, this enthusiasm could I have always known. well be magnified because of the amazing weather here and the fact that I come from a country that gets “ about five days of summer. Perhaps if “My house is like an you ask me in the winter how I feel incessantly hilarious Lost In about the city, I’ll have a different Translation scene. I can’t help opinion. Truthfully, I came to Canada to es- but feel like a sponge here.” cape Ireland for a little while. After only one week living here, I am certain It’s as if almost everybody has been I could not have chosen a better oasis uprooted from another country and illustration by Kelsey Shore for change. I have trudged hungover re-planted here to make Canada’s capi- ous diff erent worlds. features of a nation’s capital and all and all of the historical sites sprinkled into classes only to emerge with an en- tal one vastly diverse, colourful garden As an admitted country girl—geo- the conveniences of a city, yet it also throughout downtown. lightened and altered world view. This of nationalities. It appears to be a place graphically speaking, not mentally!—I manages to retain an awe-inspiring All Canadian stereotypes I’ve ever city never ceases to intrigue me. This where you can simultaneously be anon- find O-Town incredibly impressive. mystique and beauty that peaks in the heard have been affi rmed by the majority year as an Ottawan, anything feels ymous and share connections with vari- It seems to perfectly exhibit all the Parliament Buildings, Chateau Laurier, of people I’ve met who welcomed me with possible. f Life after Facebook Social media has been getting me down

Bethany Ditzel | Fulcrum Contributor process. On the way out you are asked taken hiatuses from social networking, Stranger still are the reactions of cause, obviously, life can’t go on without several times why you are leaving and and they said they would contemplate re- those who remain online aft er you’ve Facebook. “IS THERE LIFE aft er death?” Th is is if you’re 100 per cent sure you want to activation for one thing: the invitations. gone. Deleting your profi le does not go Or can it? one of life’s greatest mysteries. More ditch. But those who have answered To be present and clickable on social unnoticed, seeing as you are essentially If you rise above the petty banali- recently, however, I’ve found myself that question with a yes have found media means to be invited to events and dropping off the face of the online earth. ties of online networking, it is possible asking, “Is there life aft er Facebook?” the experience liberating. No longer do parties; by choosing to be absent, you risk As soon as you click “deactivate,” there to live your life sans social media. Th e Can you survive in the modern world you need to feign interest in the lives of being forgotten. are friends immediately asking where problem is that many of those who have without having Facebook or some other people you haven’t seen in ages, or feel It’s not just friends’ birthdays and rela- you’ve gone and why you felt you had bid social media adieu haven’t stuck form of social media? And if you decide the need to check your phone every 10 tionship status changes that social media the right to drop their cyber friendship. with their decision and have eventu- to sever your ties with the online world, seconds just in case someone has writ- deserters might miss out on, you also run In fact, one person I spoke to who had ally come crawling back. Maybe we can what will those who remain think of ten on your wall or commented on your the risk of not hearing about local and deleted his profi le described how a Face- survive without Facebook, Twitter, and you? status. international events if you don’t have a book group was set up in his honour Pinterest; we’re just not ready to admit Deleting Facebook is a difficult I’ve asked friends who have recently Twitter handle. asking whether he was dead or not be- it yet. f 20 | opinions thefulcrum.ca | Sept. 13–19, 2012 Confessions of a Playboy subscriber I read it for the articles—no, seriously!

Blair Woynarski | The Sheaf (University of Saskatchewan)

CUP—A LITTLE OVER a year ago, I de- cided to buy an issue of Playboy. Heckles Th e precise reason for this decision is a little fuzzy, but I believe it had some- Inconsiderate thing to do with viewing it as a rite of passage. At 21 years old, I had never fl ipped through a Playboy in my life, and cyclists it seemed that I was missing out on a big aspect of popular culture. Th e weeks spent waiting for it to ar- Andrew Ikeman | Fulcrum Staff rive in the mail were characterized by strange emotions. I went out to check I LIKE TO walk everywhere. To work, to the mailbox every day—not because I Parliament, to class; I very rarely use al- was dying with anticipation, but rather ternate transportation. As I walk around because I didn’t want my roommate to our great city, I can’t help but notice a bring it in fi rst. I felt like I was carry- trend: cyclists are douchebags. Now I do ing around a weird, dark secret, or that realize that there are many cyclists out I had crossed some sort of unforgivable there who are nice people, but the major- divide into a world of perversion. But ity of them are assholes. then one day it arrived, and it is hard to I live in the Golden Triangle, a neigh- say what my reaction was. It wasn’t ex- bourhood just over the Corktown Bridge, citement, nor was it disappointment; it and every day as I cross the bridge I try to was a neutral, calculating sense of, “So be mindful of bikers. Th is is no easy feat, this is Playboy. Huh.” considering that over the last few weeks I One of my fi rst thoughts was, “Wow, have seen the number of douchebag cy- this really is just like a normal maga- clists skyrocket. Last week I had to quick- zine.” It had advertisements, advice photo by Matthew Stefanson ly move onto the grass to avoid a head-on columns, whatever. But as I looked a bit More than just boobs? collision with one, as he fl ipped me off more closely, I discovered something while shouting a few choice expletives. much more shocking. I discovered that Th e time-honoured Playboy interview still content to let the Sports Illustrated together in my memory, but I can re- Also, dear douchebag cyclists, side- it had more literary merit than most of has, over the years, featured many nota- Swimsuit Edition fl y off newsstands call tags like, “10 Th ings Guys Crave in walks are for pedestrians. Riding your ble fi gures, including Bill Cosby, Robert across the continent. Th e other criticism Bed,” “9 Times You Won’t Burn in Hell hipster bike down the sidewalk is danger- De Niro, Barbra Streisand, George Car- is from a younger generation that fi nds for Being Bitchy,” “‘My Gyno Talked to ous. I’ve gotten bowled over by a hipster “ lin, Anne Rice, John Lennon, Malcolm buying Playboy to be the most ridicu- My Vagina’ and Other Doc Shockers,” on a bike before and it wasn’t an experi- “I discovered that it had more X, Martin Luther King Jr., Betty Friedan, lous thing in the world when it’s so easy and countless hard-hitting “sex surveys.” ence I’d ever wish to repeat. If you don’t literary merit than most of what Carl Sagan, Stephen Hawking, and Fidel to fi nd pictures of naked women online. Of course, none sticks out more in my want to ride your bike on the street, don’t I could fi nd on the magazine Castro (twice). Even vitriolic conserva- And this group elucidates my point per- memory than “Th e Butt Facial.” Any ride your bike at all! King Edward Ave- tives Bill O’Reilly and Rush Limbaugh fectly: Playboy lost its “dirty pictures” woman could read that in public without nue does not have wide enough sidewalks racks.” have deigned to be interviewed. niche a long time ago, and it keeps go- attracting a sideways glance, yet I would for bicycles. On top of that, I’ve read articles ing simply because of its strength as a be a pervert for reading an interview with What’s another thing so many cyclists what I could fi nd on the magazine racks. on the Arab Spring, asteroid mining, publication. Jon Hamm just because of a partially ob- are guilty of? Believing they are above Don’t believe me? Th at’s fi ne. But let shark attacks, the making of Scar- I am not defending Playboy against scured title printed across the top of the reading street signs. Newsfl ash, bikers: me ask you this: who was the most talk- face, and the meth empire created by any and all criticism. Th ere is plenty you cover. You must obey all traffi c signs. In the ed-about woman in Playboy last year? actor Tom Arnold’s sister. Playboy’s could write about “bunny culture” and None of this will change, obviously. past week I have seen at least 10 cyclists While you might not have a specifi c journalists not only produce great its eff ect on women (though I do not feel I will still furtively ferry my magazine ignore the following: one-way streets, answer, chances are you are forming a content, but they also track down in- competent to weigh in here). I am con- back to my apartment when no one else no-cycling signs, stop signs, and perhaps vague mental impression. I can guaran- triguing stories that are not picked cerned primarily with the magazine, is around, and I will still peruse deep worst of all, red lights. In case you’ve tee you are not thinking of the 89-year- up anywhere else. So, the question is: and the magazine is certainly no more and thought-provoking articles about so- never seen a cyclist run a red light, it is old former dean of the White House Why does it still come delivered in a damaging to women than the plethora lar energy or North Korea while kitschy defi nitely a heart-stopping experience. Press Corps, Helen Th omas, who was the blacked-out plastic bag? of publications specifi cally directed at nude cartoons smile from the opposite You see the cyclist approach, the light subject of a Playboy interview last April Criticism seems to come from two them. page. change, the cars inch up…and no one is and ignited controversy with her anti- sources. One is an old, conservative I fi nd myself staring at a Cosmopolitan I make the following confession: I read stopping. In the span of fi ve seconds, you Zionist comments. But that, in fact, is the generation that feels the need to stamp cover every time I get my hair cut, and Playboy for the articles. Judge me as you think you are about to see someone get correct answer. out boobs wherever they arise, but is frankly, it embarrasses me. Th ey all run will. f seriously hurt. Also, I would like someone to explain something to me. I was recently told that there are huge fi nes for riding a bike at night without a bell and lights. While this makes sense, apparently helmets have been forgotten. Obviously, if you have bells and lights, your brain must be safe. Right? Wrong. In the end, you just have to think. Don’t be a douchebag. Be safe, ride safe, and most of all, stop flipping me off. f

Have your own opinion? Share it with us. illustration by Brennan Bova [email protected] thefulcrum.ca | Sept. 13–19, 2012 opinions | 21 Smells like school spirit Are universities guilty of manufacturing school spirit?

Jessica Brutus | Fulcrum Contributor hether you cheer for your home team, Wjoin a student club or association, or simply wear your school’s sweatshirt around town, school spirit is a central part of any university experience. While this pride and support for your university happens naturally to a certain extent—you picked it over all the others—it is also fostered by the school itself. One of the main ways schools do this is through frosh week. This week of non-stop partying is aimed at fresh-faced fi rst years out to have a good time as they get to know their university campus. But because frosh week targets such a specifi c group of students, it ends up alienating other groups. And school spirit, which should exist all year round, becomes a manufactured byproduct of frosh—a product with a short shelf life. Rah-rah-rah! What does school spirit mean to you? photo by Justin Labelle Students who have delayed attending university and are slightly older than teaches us. tion. Frosh week aside, the beginning of students are as excited to come back to the frosh week kit, and diminishes soon af- your typical freshman may not be in- For those who do jump on the band- the school year in general tends to foster same school in the fall of their fourth year terwards. But is that such a bad thing? terested in frosh week and may opt out wagon for school spirit, it seems like it more enthusiasm and interest in school as they were in the fall of their fi rst. Uni- Just because something may not be out- of it—not because they have no school quickly fades away once the syllabi come sports, clubs, and other events than is versity is demanding and non-academic wardly visible doesn’t mean it doesn’t spirit, but because, quite frankly, there around and the routine of school work present later in the year. A shiny new priorities may take a back seat. exist. You don’t have to cheer and chant are better things to do than shout foul and other stresses rears its head. toy is always exciting before the novelty All this to say that school spirit is to have school spirit; it’s simply anything cheers. It’s these students who may seem By Th anksgiving, most people have wears off . not something that is well maintained that makes you feel like you belong. Even reluctant to show their support for their become sleepless zombies whose priori- School spirit also tends to fade as stu- throughout the whole school year. It’s if the U of O sweater may be on inside school, at least in the ways frosh week ties have shift ed largely to self-preserva- dents progress in their years of study. Few packaged and manufactured in a nice out, it’s still a U of O sweater. f Perspectives Who are we? Sofi a Hashi | Fulcrum Staff tion Y together? Is there a specifi c event anyone with a Facebook account? And of people of all time. According to Stats that marks our very essence? Or are we a then there are those who believe the eco- Canada, the number of university gradu- EVERYTIME SOMEONE SAYS to me, generation defi ned not by one moment in nomic downturn of events have greatly ates rose a whopping 43 per cent from “tell me something about yourself,” I time, but rather something very diff erent impacted our generation. However, the 1992 to 2007—and that’s not counting have a mini panic attack and think, “Oh altogether? important thing to take notice of is that the number of Canadians who just at- dear God, who am I?” Regurgitating It’s diffi cult to defi ne our age group the recession of late has only impacted us tended university. generation. We’ve become global citi- clean-cut facts about myself on the spot by a couple of sentences—especially millennials, it hasn’t defi ned who we are. While I agree whole-heartedly with zens, all thanks to the Internet. is about as easy as solving Fermat’s Last when most of us are meandering young Sure, the doom-and-gloom prospects of education being a defi ning, signifi - And to those who said we’re too en- Th eorem without the cheat sheet. Now, adults just starting to discover who we re- life aft er a cushy college campus is fright- cant feature to our generation, there’s a grossed in ourselves to pay attention to you can imagine what went through my ally are. But, undeniably, there are a few ening, and the current job market isn’t whole other entity that’s imprinted on anything else, we’re actually more aware brain when someone asked what our gen- distinct things about our generation that helping, but that’s only helped shape us us. Yes, I’m talking about the Internet. and informed than anyone other age eration—the millennial generation—is makes us, well, us. Generation Yers. If anything, we’ve be- We are distinctly unique thanks to the group, grâce à la World Wide Web. all about. A quick Google search would lead come more savvy and smarter players in wide spread use of technology and the So while the sentence, “Tell me “Oh dear God, who are we?” you to believe we’re “Generation Me”—a the employment market. Internet. We’re plugged in and texting something about yourself,” still pet- Th is question was posed during one of bunch of entitled, self-absorbed, bratty Th ere are those who believe education away—either on Tablets, iPads, smart rifies me, at least I can know soundly the Fulcrum’s weekly meeting. It got me twenty-somethings. Th at’s not true. is the cornerstone of our generation. Af- phones, or laptops—and have more in- answer any question asking about who thinking, what has brought the Genera- Sure, we’re a little self-obsessed, but isn’t ter all, we are the most educated group formation available to us than any other we are. f 22 EDITOR Ali Schwabe | [email protected] DISTRACTIONS (613) 562-5258 Dear Di, I’m a fi rst-year student studying at the U of O. I’m gay, and have come out to my friends and family back home. Here in university, though, I don’t want to be Dear Di... known as the gay one among my new Dear Di, dent get your panties in a knot when you friends. Is it okay to keep it a secret? A few weeks ago, I was enjoying girl-on- could be getting them wet instead? Your —Jumping Back Into Th e Closet top with my man when he told me it just man clearly enjoys most sex with you, wasn’t doing it for him. He said it nicely and if he didn’t say anything the second Dear JBITC, and everything, but it was clear from time you took control, you’re probably Your sexuality is your business and yours his fl accid penis that he defi nitely didn’t good to go. If you’re still hesitant, there alone. It is absolutely up to you when, like it. Since then we’ve done that posi- are plenty of ways to calm your nerves. how, why, and even if you tell people tion only once more and it seemed to go Try asking him what in particular about your orientation. Of course, keep- fi ne, but I felt super uneasy about how I made his dick shrivel. Maybe there’s ing it a secret will defi nitely make it looked and how I moved. Now I’m just something specifi c about the move he harder for your friends to set you up on too afraid to take control even though doesn’t enjoy. If he’s vague or just says he appropriate blind dates. I really enjoyed being on top. I worry doesn’t like it, you may be out of luck— Th at being said, there’s nothing wrong about his satisfaction, or lack thereof. not everyone likes all positions. On the with being proud of who you are and an- Help, Di! Will I ever reclaim my former other hand, if it’s one of your faves, try to nouncing it to the world! You write about confi dent, sexy self? fi nd a way to make it work. When you’re not wanting to be known or defi ned as a —Bad In Bed on top, you control the angle and depth certain stereotype. Th is is totally under- of penetration. You’re more likely to be standable—nobody wants to be a token Dear BIB, grinding your hips to get some clit action, gay, or token anything else, but in uni- Th ere’s a lot going on in your situation— which stimulates his penis less intensely versity people are more open minded and let me address your concerns one at a than in-and-out positions do. If he’s used less likely to pigeonhole you than they time. First, it’s awesome that you seem to being on top or doing doggy-style, girl- may have been in high school. Puzzles provided by BestCrosswords.com. Used with permission. to have an open line of communication on-top just might not be enough action to Sure, if you’re just starting to make Answers on page 18 with your guy and that he felt comfort- keep his soldier standing at attention. friends, it makes sense that the fi rst per- able enough to tell you when the sex Th at being said, a girl’s gotta have her sonal detail you dish isn’t your sexual Across wasn’t working for him. How much worse love button taken care of. Th ere are a preference. My hope for you, though, is 1- June 6, 1944; 5- TKO caller; 8- Garage sale sign; 12- Green land; would you feel if you only found out later couple of ways you can boost the action that you’ll make friends who like you for 13- Having auricular protuberances; 15- Ammo; 16- Thin stratum; 17- that your guy had been faking enjoyment in the moment to make sure he loves it as you and who won’t change their opinion Babble; 18- _ kleine Nachtmusik; 19- At once; 22- One circuit; 23- Writer but was actually cringing inside? much as you do. Reach behind you and of you once/if they fi nd out your orien- Hentoff; 24- Blue hue; 26- Reebok rival; 29- Kitchen; 31- Admiration; Second, your dip in confi dence is un- cup his family jewels while you’re going tation—basically I hope you meet nice 32- Sleep disorder; 34- Rice dish; 36- Beaver creations; 38- Small moun- derstandable, but why let an isolated inci- at it, spin around for some reverse cow- people. tains; 40- “James and the Giant Peach” author; 41- Sag; 43- Device with girl, or blindfold him so he pays more at- Once you become closer to the people 88 keys; 45- Sticky stuff; 46- Sheath; 48- Bigshot; 50- “From _ accord- tention to the sensations going on down you meet, do you feel as though there ing to his abilities…”; 51- Not ‘neath; 52- Equipment; 54- Pass through; below. will still be more holding you back from 61- Singer Sedaka; 63- Functional; 64- Bargain; 65- Rice-shaped pasta; 66- Farm machine; 67- Hostelries; 68- Abound; 69- Condensed mois- So get back on that horse, cowgirl, opening up? If you need an extra hand, ture; 70- Carry; and ride him till the sun comes up. It the Student Federation of the University Down shouldn’t be long before you’re galloping of Ottawa’s Pride Centre was established 1- He loved Lucy; 2- Per _ ; 3- Composer Khachaturian; 4- Aden native; toward sexual confi dence. to provide a safe, comfortable, non- 5- _ avis; 6- Part of Q.E.D.; 7- Celebration; 8- Enzyme ending; 9- Cudgel; Love, judgmental, and positive environment 10- New Rochelle college; 11- Pace; 13- Tomb inscription; 14- 4th letter Di for LGBT students. Th ey off er plenty of of the Greek alphabet; 20- Arp art; 21- Quick sharp bark; 25- Put _ on services: you can drop in to hang out, get it!; 26- Alert; 27- Withdraw money from use; 28- Long-billed sandpiper; paired with a buddy, get referrals to other 29- Australian cockatoo; 30- Lout; 31- Append; 33- Actor Wallach; 35- student services, or just rant a bit and Andy Capp’s wife; 37- Caribbean dance music; 39- Meddling person; have someone listen to you. 42- Agreement; 44- Dedicated to the _ Love; 47- Small tree; 49- Accept I hope you will fi nd a community at as true; 52- Gnarl; 53- Able was _ ...; 55- Not much; 56- Egypt’s river; the U of O that is just as accepting and 57- Killed; 58- “All The Way To _ “, song by REM; 59- Pessimist’s word; supportive as the one back home. You 60- Additional; 62- Actor Herbert; can keep your secret as long as you like, but hopefully you will soon fi nd people who deserve to hear it. Love, Di Need more distractions?

Check out the blog of the week: Weddingobsession.com

Sexy Sidenote: Even if you aren’t engaged like this week’s feature author Abria Mattina, you can still appreciate the stunning photography and According to a survey of sex-shop owners, cherry is amazing Canadian weddings featured in this blog. the most popular fl avour of edible underwear. The least popular? Chocolate.

Empirical | XKCD

Nerdy/Dirty Pick-up Line:

Have you heard of Platform 9¾? Well, I can think of something else with the exact same measurements. 23 EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Kristyn Filip EDITORIAL [email protected] | (613) 562-5261 FulcSecret Volume 73, Issue 4, Sept. 13–19, 2012

Crashing weddings since 1942.

Phone: (613) 562-5261 | Fax: (613) 562-5259 631 King Edward Ave. Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5

Recycle this, or no cake for you. staff Kristyn ‘catch the bouquet’ Filip Editor-in-Chief [email protected] Kyle ‘corsage’ Hansford Production Manager [email protected] Julia ‘ jumping the broom’ Fabian Executive Editor [email protected] Mathias ‘matrimony’ MacPhee Art Director [email protected] Andrew ‘wedding singer’ Ikeman News Editor [email protected] Adam ‘wedding ring’ Feibel Arts & Culture Editor [email protected] Ali ‘aisle’ Schwabe Features Editor [email protected] Maclaine ‘maid of honour’ Chadwick Sports Editor [email protected] Darren ‘shower’ Sharp Online Editor [email protected] Sofi a ‘honeymoon’ Hashi Opinions Editor [email protected] Spencer ‘venue’ Van Dyk Staff Writer Victoria ‘fi rst dance’ Dudys Staff Proofreader Justin ‘limousine’ Labelle Staff Photographer Toni ‘train’ Van Eden Staff Videographer Dawn ‘devotion’ Xavier-Franklin Webmaster Michelle ‘fl ower girl’ Ferguson Volunteer & Visibility Coordinator [email protected] Deidre ‘dancing queen’ Butters Advertising Representative [email protected]

Andrew ‘best man’ Hawley General Manager [email protected] contributors John ‘bachelor Mueller In the spirit of PostSecret founder Frank Warren’s visit party’ Baisi Nicola ‘keepsake’ Wyatt ‘witness’ Rhind Brakeboer Kelsey ‘kiss’ Shore to the University of Ottawa campus, the Fulcrum edito- M.M. ‘invitation’ Savannah Buckingham ‘soulmate’ Soule Alex ‘veil’ Kemp Dana ‘dowry’ Simpson rial staff decided to share a handful of our own personal Ailey ‘ketubah’ Brad ‘bride’ Stefnitz Korneychuk Sophia ‘save the date’ Jane ‘license’ Syed secrets—some silly, some serious, all real. In the age of over- Lytvynenko Krystine ‘common- Melinda law’ Th erriault exposure, sometimes it’s nice to try a little anonymity. ‘diamond’ Mah Elizabeth ‘engagement’ Rebecca ‘rice’ Mason Th omas Abria ‘almost mrs.’ Tina ‘white’ Wallace [email protected] Mattina Joseph ‘wedding band’ Mico ‘wedding Webb night’ Mazza Eric ‘something Mercedes ‘bridesmaid’ borrowed’ Wilkinson

cover art by a) Mathias MacPhee A b) Mathias MacPhee B c) Mathias D MacPhee d) Kelsey Shore C

photo by Kyle Hansford