The Link November 2011 - 1

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the Link

November 2, 2011 Volume 47 • Issue 5

STUDENT PUBLIC ATION OF THE BRITISH COLUMBIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

Teenager runs for mayor of Abbotsford NEWS, page 2

Movember hits close to home NEWS, page 3

In defence of foreskins OPINIONS, page 4

Don’t waste time with In Time CULTURE, page 8

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NEWS

The Link Wednesday, November 2, 2011 Volume 47, Issue 5 Next issue: November 16, 2011

ABOUT THE LINK

The Link is the student newspaper of the British Columbia Institute of Technology. Published bi-weekly by the BCIT Student Association (BCITSA), The Link circulates 3,000 copies to over 45,000 students, faculty, and staff.

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Chad Klassen linkeditor2@bcitsa.ca CULTURE EDITOR

Dave Swanson linkeditor3@bcitsa.ca THIS WEEK’S CONTRIBUTORS

Amelia Calbry-Muzyka, Di Daniels, Ulysses X. Edgarton, Amy Erksine, Thorstan Gerlach, Mark Mackenzie, Andrew McLachlan, Sharyn Morrow, Glen O’Neill, Grace Romund, David G. Steadman, Tristan WoodworthLyna Cover illustration: Glen O’Neill (See more at www.glenoneill.com)

Want to see your name here?

Write, photograph, or illustrate for The Link! E-mail linkeditor@bcitsa. ca for more information.

The views expressed in The Link are not necessarily those of BCIT, the BCIT Student Association, The Link editorial staff, or Publications Manager.

As a member of Canadian University Press (CUP), The Link adheres to the CUP code of ethics and will not publish any material deemed by the editors to be sexist, racist, homo/heterophobic, or in poor taste.

The Link is proud to be associated with these organizations:

The Link

Abbotsford mayoral candidate Travis Daleman.

Grace Romund

Seventeen-year-old runs for mayor of Abbotsford GRACE ROMUND University of the Fraser Valley ABBOTSFORD, B.C. (CUP) — Travis Daleman is one of five mayoral candidates who have thrown their hats into the ring for this year’s municipal elections happening in Abbotsford on Nov. 19.

He also happens to be 17.

Daleman, who has spent most of his life in Abbotsford and recently graduated from W. J. Mouat Secondary, can be found at most Abbotsford city council meetings immersing himself in local politics. Along with campaigning for the upcoming mayoral election, Daleman also has found the time to begin his university studies at the University of the Fraser Valley this semester.

The student explained the

“Why mayor?” question is often directed his way.

“I think that by running for mayor I’m making a bigger impact and I’m able to have more effect on the decisions that local politics include,” he said. “By doing so, it’s made a big impact on people following politics locally. I’m noticing many young people talking to their parents about politics too.”

Daleman has also noticed far more attention being paid to him since announcing his candidacy.

“It’s been nonstop press and media coverage because of my age,” he said. “I expected the media to have fun with the fact that I am 17 and I am involved, but I figure lots of people will get to hear my name and what I’m all about and it would in-

volve them in politics. I had no idea it would become so big so fast.”

When asked about what he would like to accomplish if awarded the position, Daleman was hesitant.

“I haven’t really thought about what exactly it is I want

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“It’s an older generation of thinking that has created all these problems for us.”

- Travis Daleman Abbotsford mayoral candidate

to do. I don’t have a onesentence answer of what my platform is,” he explained.

“Regarding municipal elections, I don’t think that there

is one platform because it is where you stand on every individual issue. We have hundreds of issues municipally.”

When it comes down to the biggest difference between himself and the other mayoral candidates, however, Daleman had a clear answer.

“My age – how I view problems because of my age.

I would see things in a new way, and hopefully be able to solve problems in a new way than they were created.

“It’s an older generation of thinking that has created all these problems for us,” he continued. “Therefore, a new generation has to think differently to solve the same problems. I would say that is the biggest thing that differentiates me from the other candidates.”

HAVE A HOT NEWS TIP? LET US KNOW.

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NEWS

Movember hits close to home at BCIT BCIT looking for best student moustaches as Movember campaign kicks into gear CHAD KLASSEN Assistant Editor It’s time to get those moustaches growing, boys – and girls.

Movember is back for another year and the BCIT Student Association is hoping to raise the bar in their campaign to raise awareness and money for prostate cancer and men’s health.

The Student Association brought in $10,000 last year – part of the $22.3 million from across Canada and $76.8 million worldwide.

The target for 2011 is $15,000 and the campaign begins November 4 at Professor Mugs.

“As much as we want to raise a ton of money, we also want to get the awareness out around BCIT for Movember,” says Student Association Vice President of External Relations Tara Johnson.

Movember is a relatively new phenomenon, launching in 2004 in Melbourne, Australia when two friends wanted to help moustaches

Movember 2010 participants show off their ‘staches. make a fashion comeback.

The campaign is now trending in 10 countries with men around the world growing their best moustaches every November.

For men or women who can’t grow the moustache, fake ones will go for $2 each in the Great Hall at BCIT’s Burnaby campus with all the proceeds going to the Movember Foundation of Canada.

The fundraising efforts are to ensure there are more survivor stories like that of 27-year-old Brandon Barrett, a graduate of the automotive service technician program at BCIT. Barrett was diagnosed with a form of muscular cancer at just 12 years old. Af-

ter a year of chemotherapy and radiation, he came out on the other side against all odds – despite a 10 per cent chance of living and a mere one per cent chance of ever walking again.

Barrett is now managing an auto repair shop in Port Coquitlam.

“All these things that happen to people like losing your job or whatever, all I can say is ‘I’m alive.’

Every day is a gift from that point on. I could die now and would be happy,” says Barrett, who enjoys outdoor sports like snowboarding and quadding.

Movember is close to Barrett’s heart, even though he’d like to see people sup-

BCITSA

port every type of cancer, not just male-specific cancers, during the month of November.

Either way, he plans on growing the thickest, fullest moustache ever.

The BCIT Student Association is challenging current students to show off their best moustache online.

Students can post their picture on the BCIT Student Association’s Facebook page.

Men are encouraged to grow their best moustache, while women can get creative and draw their own funky moustache to get involved.

To wrap it all up, there will be a giant fundraising at Doolan’s Pub on the last day of the month, November 30.

CAMPUS QUERY

How do you feel about facial hair?

TARA JOHNSON Business

CARLOS PALACO Mechanical Engineering

SIMER AUJLA Marketing Management

STACEY GODDING Prospective student

I think it’s really sexy and I am looking forward to seeing moustaches all over campus this month!

I have never had it. Maybe I could try it this year [for Movember]

I am not a big fan of shaving so I usually just end up growing it out for two or three weeks. Last year I had a mustache. It was kind of for Movemeber but also because it was funny.”

It seperates the boys from the men!

NEWS BRIEFS

Shipbuilding contract good for BCIT grads The federal government awarded Seaspan Marine, a North Vancouver company, an $8 billion shipbuilding contract estimated to create 4,000 new jobs in British Columbia over the next eight years. This deal is expected to increase the number of career opportunities available for graduating BCIT technical professionals.

Paul Dangerfield, the VP of Education, Research and International stated, “This [contract] means there will be more employment opportunities for, past, present, and future BCIT students, in the trades, and in a vast array of other areas.”

It will increase demand for journeymen, apprentices, project managers and engineers across a wide range of industries. Vessel construction will start in late 2012 but economic activity will start immediately as $150 million has been allocated for immediate infrastructure renovations.

BCIT was integral in planning the contract announcement and are building relationships with various contract stakeholders.

- Dave Swanson

Vancouver PD accused of soliciting prostitutes The Vancouver Police have been accused of coercing prostitutes into performing sexual favours in exchange for letting them work the streets.

Kate Shannon, University of British Columbia public health researcher and expert witness told the Missing Woman Inquiry, “One of the problems faced by streetlevel sex trade workers was that Vancouver Police Department members would force them to engage in sexual services in exchange for not arresting them or fining them.”

Based on in depth interviews, Shannon believes that prior police solicitation increased a sex workers chance of encountering violence.

- Dave Swanson

With files from BCIT Commons & Montreal Gazette

November 2, 2011

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OPINIONS

In defence of foreskins Circumcision is mutilation and should be banned AMELIA CALBRY-MUZYKA Wilfrid Laurier University WATERLOO (CUP) — On November 8, residents of San Francisco will be voting on an issue that has raised a number of strong voices and opinions.

Since reaching the required 7,100 signatures in May, the November ballot is set to include a proposal for a circumcision ban, which would make it “unlawful to circumcise, excise, cut or mutilate the whole or any part of the foreskin, testicles, or penis of another person who has not attained the age of 18 years.”

Anyone found violating this would face up to one year of jail time as well as a $1,000 fine. The only exception to this rule would be for circumstances where circumcision is the last available treatment option in matters relating to the physical health of the individual. Should this ban take effect, young boys would be saved from an unnecessary procedure they are incapable of consenting to.

This groundbreaking proposal has received a number of objections, all of which can be narrowed down to two main points — health and freedom of religion. Both of these objections provide insufficient reasons for maintaining the status quo and disregard the fact that circumcision, without medical necessity or the

individual’s consent, is nothing less than mutilation.

Routine neonatal circumcision was adopted in the United States in the late 19th century to prevent or treat a number of health conditions, including everything from mental illness and tuberculosis to excessive masturbation and blindness. Today, routine circumcision is generally performed for so-called hygienic reasons, with the perception that an uncircumcised penis is an unclean one.

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There is no evidence that proves a circumcised penis is more hygienic than an uncircumcised one.

While the uncircumcised penis does indeed require a slightly more thorough cleaning, there is no evidence that proves a circumcised penis is more hygienic than an uncircumcised one.

In addition, studies to determine whether or not an uncircumcised male holds a higher chance of contracting penile cancer and/or urinary tract infections have been inconclusive. The only health benefit to circumcision was found in a 2005 randomized controlled trial in South Africa, where it was found that circumcised men in that area were 60 per cent less likely to contract human immunode-

ficiency virus (HIV) through heterosexual sex than uncircumcised men. These results have been replicated in similar trials conducted in Kenya and Uganda.

These trials only serve to show the potential benefit of circumcision in sub-Saharan Africa, where there are high rates of heterosexual transmission of HIV, partially as a result of low condom use. In industrialized countries like the United States, HIV is not nearly as prevalent and sexual education and birth control are widely and easily available.

The justification for circumcision in terms of health benefits simply does not hold.

Some argue that a ban on circumcision would be a violation of the first amendment of the United States Constitution, which protects the right to freedom of religion from government interference.

Circumcision has a long religious history, specifically with Jewish and Muslim faiths.

As a result, some have come to view the ban as a direct attack on their right to freedom of religion, fearing that a circumcision ban is just the first step in an upcoming attack on their religious practices as a whole.

What these individuals fail to realize is that, rather than being an attack on religious practices, it is a step forward in recognizing an individual’s right to his own body. A ban recognizes that a male should be entitled to protection from harmful religious acts and unnecessary medical prac-

Sharyn Morrow

tices he cannot consent to. It recognizes that just because a practice is traditional, it is not necessarily right.

In the last hundred years, male circumcision in the United States has become the norm. It is seen as a harmless, routine procedure as well as an affirmation of manhood. In truth, it is a mind-boggling double standard. The removal of sensitive tissue in females is

regarded as atrocious, while the removal of the similar tissue in males is viewed as customary. This ban is not the result of overbearing government attempting to weasel its way into the private lives of individuals, but rather one which acknowledges that no one should be subjected to harmful and unnecessary medical procedures without their consent, regardless of tradition.

HAVE SOMETHING TO SAY? BE HEARD. WRITE FOR LINK OPINIONS.

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5

OPINIONS

World leaders at the G-20 summit in Toronto last summer.

Presidencia de la Nación Argentina

Global Summits: elitism and empty promises The Global Summits are undemocratic, perpetuate elitist ideology, and waste public funds DAVE SWANSON Culture Editor Few things are quite as inspiring as a bunch of powerful people from wealthy nations coming together to mend social and economic inequality. Unfortunately, as the world-wide Occupy Wall Street protests have taught us, it is these people who are responsible for much of the world’s injustice.

The Global Summits are two annual conferences organized by the world’s wealthiest nations. Their purpose is to tackle difficult and pressing social issues that affect society on a global scale. The 2011 G-20 summits, a meeting of the world’s 20 affluent countries, will be hosted by the French city of Cannes on November 3rd and 4th, about five months after the 37th G8 summit in Deauville, France.

The focus of the G-20 summit is financial markets and the global economy while the G8 consultations tend to engage a broader range of polit-

ical issues including climate change, foreign aid, and war.

The agenda of each summit is indeed definitive and separate but issues discussed are clearly related; global economic policy affects pollution levels, poverty rates, and a national ability to give and receive financial assistance.

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The G-20 summit disregards the input of 176 nations that represent over 2.3 billion people.

The primary economic issues tabled for this year’s G20 conference are global economic imbalances, macroeconomic policies, commodities regulation, and financial regulation. These and other topics will be discussed by the finance ministers of the invited 20 nations, with the purpose of making global growth more stable.

The rationale behind these conventions appears meaningful and legitimate but there are a number of issues surrounding them that breathe doubt into their ef-

fectiveness and democratic value. By virtue, the diplomatic, military, and economic power that G8 and G20 nations possess aids their ability to influence global governance.

This power raises valid questions regarding their motive in acting as a source of conflict resolution or as a global political organization that can police or manage less wealthy nations.

Furthermore, the Global Summits undermine the influence of more inclusive global governing bodies like the UN which provide a more egalitarian global governing system by incorporating most of the world’s nations.

There are 196 countries in the world and close to 7 billion people. The G-20 summit, the more inclusive of the two summits, disregards the input of 176 nations that represent over 2.3 billion people.

In addition, the costs associated with these meetings are extraordinary. Last year’s Canadian Global Summits cost a total of $1.1 billion.

The 2011 French meetings are expected to cost much less but the expected price tag of over $100 million is still a significant sum.

To address the obvious,

it seems hypocritical for a global governance community attempting to stabilize a volatile global economy to support spending large quantities on event organization and security. In fact, with current communication tools, it is unnecessary for these world leaders to leave the security of their already extremely safe residences.

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Last year’s Canadian Global Summits cost a total of $1.1 billion.

Implementing this strategy would save host nations hundreds of millions of dollars.

This cost becomes even more absurd when past Global Summit commitments are reviewed. A 2011 DATA Report, the only measure holding G8 countries accountable for their promises, indicates that only 61% of the $10 billion in promised funding from the 2005 Scotland summit has been made to the sub-Saharan Africa.

Another pressing issue is the suspension of demo-

cratic and constitutional rights that occur during every Global Summit as a means of security. This allows police to arrest people without cause, enter private residences without warrant, and use excessive force without reasonable grounds. This deferral of individual rights essentially makes protesting illegal; being on the street is an offence in designated areas regardless of the violator’s knowledge of its legality. Obviously, all of these policies are in direct contradiction of the laws that have established these nations as elite democratic leaders, and bring about further questions regarding the conduct and purpose of the summit.

Anti-capitalist protesters have planned a four day demonstration in lieu of the Cannes G-20 summit.

Counter-summit organizers are expecting about 15,000 protesters at demonstrations, marches, and concerts scheduled to take place during the two day meeting.

This assembly is meant to raise awareness about the Global Summit’s propagation of capitalist ideologies used to create unrepresentative mass policy.

November 2, 2011

FACIAL HAIR GUIDE WRITTEN BY JOHN MORRISON III ILLUSTRATED BY GLEN ONEILL SHORT BOXED BEARD

GOATEE

A timeless classic, the short boxed beard is the most common full beard. It looks sharp and it’s easy to maintain. Just shave under the jaw line and a little on the upper cheeks when you want to look extra dapper.

Don’t forget to trim regularly!

The goatee is another very popular style. Facial hair grows thickest and fastest in the area around the mouth so it’s among the easiest styles to adopt for most new beardies. It’s a good place to start out but don’t get stuck with what feels safe.

SIDEBURNS

TEENSTACHE

Sideburns grow down the cheeks from under the scalp when the hair gets course. They can be any size, from merely a centimetre or so beside the ear, to right down to the side of the mouth, or attached via mustache, known as “friendly mutton chops.”

Transport yourself back to high school: The new Star Wars movie trailers were looking good, Clinton was president, and teenstaches were all the rage (I may be dating myself here). A teenstache is basically the wispiest version of any moustache, almost imperceptible.

MOUSTACHIOS

CHIN CURTAIN

Moustachios are the real facial hair connoisseur’s true love.

Moustachios are what you get when the sides of one’s moustache are long enough to protrude from the face. They are often curled or styled with everything from wax to wire.

Ah, chin curtain! Abe Lincoln couldn’t grow a moustache, but he had a hell of a chin curtain. The chin curtain is a bold choice but I have mixed feelings about how many more I’d like to see around. Perhaps this is the natural evolution for all those non-moustached-goatees.

FULL NATURAL The full natural beard requires dedication. This courageous endeavour will take a long time to achieve, but it’s worth it. Don’t go too crazy though. While the idea of pulling things out of your beard like it’s Mary Poppins’ handbag is fun, you might lose something.

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YOUR FACIAL HAIR We want to see what facial hair you came up with this Movember! Send your best facial hair photos to linkeditor@bcitsa.ca!

Awards will be given to the best facial hair. Make sure to get your photos in before Friday, November 25!

If you want to carve some sweet facial hair style out of that lovely mug of yours, you have to be properly equipped. Make sure your razors are sharp; dull razors will hurt your face when you finally shave, especially after the stubbly period has passed.

You should get yourself an electric trimmer with some adjustable heads. They’re not too pricey (you can get a simple one for around $20 at any department store) and are totally worth it. Think of it as an investment in your face.

Finally, don’t you dare shave your face to the skin with an electric trimmer (lest you’re maintaining a stubble beard). Electric trimmers are for trimming — you’re a beardie now, you owe it to yourself, and all bearded people, to take the time to use a regular ol’ manual razor.

Few beards come in strong right away. In time, your stubble will grow longer and you can trim that. Your beard will continue to fill out and after a while (six weeks for many), it will look even and full.

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If you want to carve some sweet facial hair style out of that lovely mug of yours, you have to be properly equipped.

SO, YOU FINALLY HAVE A NICE BASE.

This is a critical time! You’ve put all these weeks into establishing a big lump of marble. Now, it’s time to chisel away at it like Michelangelo chisels a slab of marble.

You’re basically an artist.

TRIM YOUR MOUSTACHE .

Give yourself a big toothy grin and trim your ‘stache with the electric trimmer just enough so that it’s not directly touching your lip.

Also, you know those areas of skin between the soul patch and the rest of the goatee? Keep ‘em neat. Few people will notice but those who do . . . oh, myyy.

SYMMETRY IS KEY.

Especially with sideburns, you must ensure that everything you do on the right side looks the same as it does on the left. Take note of your facial hair on each side in relation to the tops and bottoms or your ears, nose, and eyes.

Look at it at different angles, too. It can be a little time consuming but you’re going to look stunning, so don’t worry about it.

TAKE YOUR TIME WHEN YOU’RE SHAVING.

It’s not a race; take your time and be careful. When you shave to the skin, lather up some soap (shaving cream is for amateurs) and lubricate your face with a thin layer so you can still see your beard. Use your manual razor and slowly drag it with the grain of your beard. Do not use an electric razor to shave to the skin, take the two minutes and use a manual razor.

TRY SOMETHING NEW!

Once you’ve mastered one facial hair style don’t be afraid to try something new! Don’t get too comfortable with one style; feel free to change it up. Changing your facial hair affects your whole appearance. Try something different, do something bold!

Well, my soon-to-be grizzly friends, don’t be afraid to come on down to the ol’ Link office and show us your developing beards!

BEARD GROWTH 101

GET YOURSELF THE RIGHT TOOLS FOR THE JOB.

DON’T WORRY IF IT COMES IN PATCHY OR THIN INITIALLY.

TIPS AND TRICKS TO ENSURE YOU HAVE THE BEST POSSIBLE FACIAL

BE PATIENT.

If your facial hair doesn’t come in quickly ora evenly, do not fret!

Few people can grow a beard right off the bat. Stop shaving for a few weeks (between three and six, depending on your rate of growth) and let your stubble grow out a bit.

If you’re really worried about how you look you can shave an inch or so below the jaw line, cleaning up a stubble beard really nicely. Leave some room for error, though! It’s not time to perfect your beard’s jaw line just yet.

8 OLDIE BUT GOODIE

All Quiet on the Western Front

CULTURE

Don’t waste time with In Time Despite an interestingsounding premise, In Time was just another hollywood popcor action flick THORSTAN GERLACH Link Contributor

French director Francois Truffaut once said, “There is no such thing as an anti-war movie”; but if one were to make the argument, this one’s the closest.

Lewis Milestone’s landmark 1930 film, based on Erich Maria Remarque’s novel of the same name, details the harrowing account of a group of German schoolboys who are talked into joining the army at the beginning of World War I by their school teacher. As the boys fight in the trenches and witness death all around them, they soon begin to feel the misery and emptiness of war.

The film is told entirely through the eyes of the young German recruits and creates an atmosphere that is inescapable. The drudgery of the war is highlighted in a scene where Paul (Lew Ayers- in the role that made him a star), one of the stories central characters, fatally stabs a French soldier while trapped in a shell crater and is forced to witness the soldier slowly die.

This film is timeless and arguably the finest war movie ever produced, with performances that are unforgettable. An essential.

— Thorstan Gerlach

Want to review an old classic? Email linkeditor@bcitsa.ca with your review of around 130 words!

The Link

In Andrew Niccol’s new scifi thriller, In Time, the future looks quite dim. Time has become the currency of the day and people live to be twentyfive; at which point individuals must seek to acquire more time in order to survive.

There are those who have a lot of time and those who don’t. Those with a lot of time live in opulence and flirt with the possibility of immortality and those who live with little time are in a constant struggle to stay alive. It’s an interesting concept; however, the very idea of time-as-currency proves to be the films downfall. To

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put it simply, it just doesn’t work.

Justin Timberlake plays Will Salas, the protagonist who appears to have been modeled from an action movie how-to guide: brooding, shaved head, and with a dead father’s legacy to live up to. Salas has lived his life with little time on his side until a chance encounter with a man named Henry Hamilton (Matt Bomer) changes everything.

Hamilton reveals to Salas that he is 100 years old and has grown tired of living with a century more to go on his clock. After a lengthy talk, the two fall asleep and Salas wakes up with an extra century on his side. As Salas scrambles to find Hamilton, he sees the man teetering on the edge of a bridge preparing to fall to his death.

With an extra century, Salas can now leave the ghetto he lives in and cross over to the wealthy side and correct the

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wrongs of society. However, Salas soon finds himself accused for the murder of Hamilton and stealing his time.

Eventually, Salas meets the sexy Sylvia Weis (Amanda Seyfried) who happens to be the daughter of Philipe Weis, who holds an untold amount of time on his clock and controls the banks. You can guess what happens next.

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The very idea of time - as- currenc y proves to be the films downfall.

Niccol’s uses the mysterious world he has created to draw parallels to the one we live in, making commentaries on social issues like the rich/poor divide, bank monopolies, and uses the allegory of time as money in a

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very direct way.

Unfortunately, the film’s flaws are too great to overlook. The narrative unfolds in a standard and all too familiar fashion. Never mind the unanswered questions that the film leaves, like the question of how in a nottoo-distant future there are citizens who have already lived for centuries, like Henry Hamilton; or why the sets look all too contemporary with Lincoln Continentals flooding the streets.

Ultimately, it is the very premise of time-as-currency that makes the film so frustrating. By the end of the film, which runs at 109 minutes, the plot has been beaten to a pulp leaving an unpleasant taste with the viewer.

If there is one thing to take away from the film it is that in a world where time is all too precious, there are better films to watch than this.

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Let’s go down the Link office, let’s go down the Link office, let’s go down the Link office and write for the newspaper! ♫

UPCOMING MOVIES November 4

A VERY HAROLD & KUMAR 3D CHRISTMAS

Directed by Todd Strauss Schulson Stars John Cho, Kal Penn, Neil Patrick Harris In this third installation of the series, the pair have grown apart over time and have found new best friends. However, they are reunited at Christmas when Kumar attempts to deliver a mysterious package to Harold. Before long, the duo find themselves on a journey through New York City.

Running time: 90 minutes

November 11

J. EDGAR

Directed by Clint Eastwood Stars Leonardo DiCaprio, Naomi Watts This biopic focuses on legendary J. Edgar Hoover, who remained director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation for 37 years, until his death in 1972.

With Eastwood at the helm and DiCaprio as the title character, the film promises to be a hit. Check out the next issue of the Link for a full review!

Running time: 127 minutes

CULTURE

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WRITE FOR THE LINK! GET EXPERIENCE, MAKE FRIENDS! Email linkeditor@bcitsa.ca for details.

November 2, 2011

10

SPORTS

Does fighting have a place in hockey anymore?

With increase in head in- to return to the game later juries over the years, NHL because it was the manly and courageous thing to do. has hit a crossroad TRISTAN WOODWORTH-LYNA Memorial University of Newfoundland ST. JOHN’S (CUP) — Fighting in the National Hockey League has always been a hot topic for sports analysts. In recent years, the discussion has intensified in the postlockout era with communication and a new understanding of concussions.

The game of hockey is slowly changing its ways to protect its athletes, with a large emphasis being placed on head injuries. For even longer than the NHL, the junior ranks have been effecting change to prevent trauma to the heads of young athletes.

Only since the NHL lockout during the 2004-05 season have concussions really been accepted as not only a viable injury, but the worst type of injury.

During the ’90s, players competing in the playoffs could take a hit that had obviously concussed them, only

When New Jersey Devils defenceman Scott Stevens floored the then Mighty Ducks of Anaheim forward Paul Kariya in the 2003 Stanley Cup finals, for example, he came back to score the winning goal of the game. But perhaps this concussion was the reason his career has been derailed ever since.

Stars like Sidney Crosby miss 20 games in a season, with no timetable for a return, all due to concussions that probably would have gone unnoticed, or at least unmentioned, by the players.

With this in mind, the issue of fighting in hockey has hit another level of scrutiny amongst fans and analysts alike.

In the wake of the 2009 death of Don Sanderson, a senior hockey player in Ontario, the question has been posed frequently: Does fighting belong in hockey in this day and age?

There are those who enjoy the heart and the energy that fighting brings to the game, as well as the policing that goes behind the scenes of these

David G. Steadman and Mark Mackenzie

teams. On the other side of the coin, there are those who see it as a barbaric ritual that has no place in a sporting event, especially not one where there are no safeguards to prevent serious injury.

Since 2005, fighting majors have skyrocketed from 466 to 714. This year, there have already been 497 fights in the NHL after 60 games. That’s a pace for about 690 fights over the course of the season.

While fighting has decreased in the last two years — albeit minimally — it has oth-

erwise seen an increase year by year since the lockout.

Due to the instigator rule — a rule that penalizes the player who purposely seeks out a fight — there has also been a giant leap in planned fights that take place right after the whistle.

There are mixed reactions to these fights, as a lot of true-blue hockey fans see them less as a part of the game and more for the sake of getting it over with.

The NHL has come to a crossroads with regards to where fighting stands in the

grand scheme of the game. Is it okay to let junior and minorleague players think fighting is the way to deal with problems on the ice? Does it affect someone’s attitude toward adversity off the ice?

Don’t get me wrong; I would be a very sad individual if I couldn’t check out hockeyfights.com for the latest tilt. However, I have a feeling that if it’s not taken out completely, there will soon be big restrictions on the methods of fighting and their place in the game.

Time for Canucks to make decision in net Goaltenders might not be getting much help, but Vancouver must choose their its man CHAD KLASSEN Assistant Editor Slow starts have been synonymous with the Alain Vigneault-coached Canucks during his six seasons behind the bench.

But there’s a different feeling around this year’s sluggish beginning — and it all starts in goal.

The horrors of October continued for Roberto Luongo. He posted a .500 record, going 3-3-1 as the main guy, and his goals-against average was a measly 3.54. But it’s Luongo’s tendency to give up soft and untimely goals that’s been the major concern thus far.

Those kinds of goals deflate a team and don’t inspire much con-

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fidence, which the Canucks are lacking early in the year.

And if you’re not scoring four goals a game, which the Canucks aren’t, you’re not going to win many games.

Granted, Luongo — and Cory Schneider for that matter — haven’t been getting much help offensively, besides that seven-goal output against Washington.

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It’s Luongo’s tendency to give up soft and untimely goals that’s been the major concern thus far.

The Canucks have been shut out three times early this season (five times all of last year) and their top guns certainly haven’t been fir-

ing on all cylinders yet.

But stability between the pipes is key for any team to win, and bouncing between Luongo and Schneider, while it worked last year, isn’t a winning recipe for the future.

It’s time to choose between the million-dollar man who’s under contract for the next 11 seasons, or the young prospect who’s shown he can be a capable starter in the NHL. Either way, for the sake of the players and the fans, they have to choose at least by the end of the season to avoid a goaltender controversy, which is never good for the psyche of a team.

Schneider should get the nod.

His cool demeanor has a calming influence on the team when he’s in net, and he’s proven he can carry a team.

He’s 2-2 with a goals-against average 1.97 on the heels of a 16-4

record last year in his 25 appearances.

And when the Canucks needed him in the playoffs —most notably when he started Game 6 in Chicago — Schneider came in and brought some stability and confidence to the team after Luongo was shelved for 10 goals in Games 4 and 5.

Luongo has proven he can be an elite goalie. He bounced back after getting benched in Chicago, putting together a tremendous performance in Game 7 of the opening round and took the Canucks to the Stanley Cup Final.

He posted two 1-0 shutouts in that final series, including a Game 5 win that had the Canucks a game away from winning it all.

But he also coughed up 21 goals in the four losses, and Luongo’s streakiness that’s continued into this season is hard to take on a regular basis.

He can’t be superman every game, but we just ask that he make timely saves and not let in those ugly ones that ultimately drag a team down.

And there have been too many of them to begin the 2011-2012 season, regardless of defensive breakdowns in front of him.

The problem facing Luongo haters is his monstrous contract.

The 32-year-old is locked up for the next 11 seasons at an average cap hit of $5.3 million.

So how do you possibly trade him with such a big contract?

If there is an opportunity to unload his contract to a willing team, and getting a back a major piece to the Stanley Cup puzzle, then the Canucks should be making it in a heartbeat.

Otherwise, hang on tight as Luongo takes us on another rollercoaster ride.

The BCITSA Info & News page is designed for the BCIT Student Associationto showcase the Association’s projects or events. The advertising on this page does not necessarily reflect the views of The Link or its staff.

BCITSA Info & News BCITSA Annual General Meeting November 14, 5:30-6:30 p.m. in Council Chambers (SE2) on Burnaby campus

Executive Weigh-In

AGM Agenda 1. Meeting called to order 2. Acceptance of the agenda 3. President’s Report 4. Report on audited financial statements 5. Auditor’s appointment for 2011/2012 6. Bylaw amendment 7. Meeting adjournment

A message from BCITSA School of Energy Chair Amy Erksine

Sept. 20 | Oct. 18 | Nov.15 | Jan. 17 | Feb. 14 | Mar. 20 | Apr. 17 | 4:30pm

You might start to notice something different about some of the men in your life over the next month. Strange patches of hair may be seen forming on faces around town, but don’t worry — it’s just Movember! Movember is a charity movement in which men across the planet create awareness about men’s health and fundraise for prostate cancer research by growing a moustache for the entire month of November.

Last year, nearly all of my set grew moustaches for the entire month of November (no beards, either)! Thanks mostly to a single generous contributor, our set raised over $1,000, which was 10 per cent of all funds BCIT raised!

The only problem is, they was a huge difference between the number of participants and the number of people raising money.

This year will be different. For anyone who donates $15, I will wear a fake moustache for the entire day.

There are prizes from the SA website just for participating. There will also be prizes at the wrap party at the end of the month for individuals, and for the set that raises the most money. The Movember website has prizes like shaving kits and entries to win a Harley Davidson motorcycle.

The official Movember website has made it easier than ever to raise funds! Just sign up and join the BCIT group. Then you get to pick a custom website address, so people can donate to you online.

Start growing your ‘stache November 1 (or start fundraising, ladies), and I’ll see you at the kickoff party November 4 at the Professor Mugs Pub!

BCITSA Annual Sponsors

Dear Di 12

Dear Di, I am newly married and I really enjoy hand jobs and blow jobs; however, my wife never performs them. The few times she’s ever gone down on me or used her hands have ended very quickly. I asked her to try again but she refuses.

— Like It, Can’t Have It Dear LICHI, Boy, oh, boy. You do have quite the problem on your hands, don’t you?

There could be several different issues at play in preventing your wife from getting her paws on your privates. Perhaps her reluctance to reach for your rod stems from her own feelings of insecurity in the bedroom. She may be uncomfortable with her sexuality or is scared that she sucks at, well, sucking. If this is the case, you’ll have to convince your cutie that her

DISTRACTIONS with Di Daniels (University of Ottawa)

moves are mind-blowing. Tell her—and show her—how horny she makes you. Your enthusiasm may encourage your wife to engage more with your engorged penis.

There’s also the possibility that the blame lies with you. Have you ever offered to orally or manually return the favour? Maybe your sweetheart is sick and tired of slurping and stroking your sausage without receiving a little clitoral care in exchange.

It’s my unlucky duty to inform you that there’s also a chance your spouse just genuinely dislikes giving head and hand. If so, the two of you will have to work to find different ways to spice things up in the sack.

Regardless of the reason why your lady refuses to get up close and personal with your penis, the pair of you

need to do some serious talking. If you can’t find a happy medium together, consider hashing it out with a third party by making an appointment with a sex therapist Love, Di

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Dear Di, I get really horny whenever I have my period. Is that weird?

Do all guys think it’s disgusting to have sex with a girl while she’s menstruating? Is there something I can do to minimize the blood flow?

— I Love That Time of the Month Dear ILTTOTM, Many ladies feel their friskiest when the red river flows.

It’s nothing to be alarmed about, but I imagine it must be quite irritating to stave

off sex at the exact moment you’re dying to do the dirty.

So, what’s a girl to do? You could always masturbate, of course… Or you could put a condom on any consenting cowboy and ride him until the cows come home.

To put it simply: Most men will likely ask for a rain check, but not all are grossed out by a little period blood. The best way to find out if your dude is down is to ask him.

To be fair, you should give him ample warning before the panties come off. If he’s OK with the idea, feel free to hop on, forget about it, and enjoy yourself.

If your guy is a little uneasy about getting it on while Aunt Flo is in town, consider investing in a diaphragm or a menstrual cup. These devices aren’t foolproof, but they will help

keep the messiness to a minimum.

Although some boys won’t bat an eyelash at the sight of a bit of blood, pull out your vibrator on the days in which you experience your heaviest flow. Your bed sheets will thank you.

Love, Di Do you have a question for Di? Email deardi@thefulcrum.ca

Lame Dad - Ulysses X. Edgarton (Simon Fraser University)

Children’s Stories - Andrew McLachlan (Simon Fraser University)

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