Capilano Courier Vol. 45 issue 7

“Pushing buttons since 1968�

Volume 45

The Capilano Courier N O R T H V A N C O U V E R / / O cto b er 2 4 , 2 0 1 1

the Spooky issue Issue N o. 07

with csu broken by-laws // body painting // racist disney // and so much more ...

TABle of contents Vol. Fourty-Five | Issue 06

Pushing buttons since 1968

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TUESDAYS at NOON in MAPLE 122 Caveat lector

The Capilano Courier is an autonomous, democratically run student newspaper. Literary and visual submissions are welcomed. All submissions are subject to editing for brevity, taste, and legality.

The Capilano Courier will not publish material deemed by the collective to exhibit sexism, racism, or homophobia. The views expressed by the contributing writers are not necessarily those of the Capilano Publishing Society.

News

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Best Halloween candy: Coffee Crisp (full size)

Sta f f

C al e n d a r

The Capilano Courier is brought to you by the following people ...

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Scariest Halloween villain: Undead Osama Bin Laden editor-in-chief

editor-in-chief

Samantha Thompson

Sarah Vitet

Fe a t u r e s

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Best recession Halloween costume: recycled Heath Ledger Joker costume from 2008

Ar t s

production mngr.

a rt d i r e c t o r

f e at u r e s e d i t o r

news editor

Shannon Elliott

JJ Brewis

Adélie Houle-Lachance

Gurpreet Kambo

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Sexiest Halloween costume: Ricky Bao

Columns

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Best Halloween Party Song: “Nightmare On My Street” – Will Smith a rt s e d i t o r

opinions editor

Claire Vulliamy

Marco Ferreira

humor

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fiction editor

Kevin Murray

copy editor

Celina Kurz

O pi n i o n s

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Best Halloween beverage: 1 can pumpkin pie filling, 5 fl oz Jim Beam, handful candy corn – blend

s ta f f w r i t e r

Evelyn Cranston

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events mngr.

Jonty Davies

C ab o o s e business manager

web editor

Ricky Bao

Natahsha Prakash

Scariest Halloween movie: Sex and the City 2

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the cove

r

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Katie so Katie So is a babe.

➼ http://katieso.tumblr.com

Spooky facts* This year will be the lowest potential turnout for trick-or-treating children since 1988.

The “prime” trick-or-treating age is between 5-14 years old, and there are .4% fewer children in the trick-ortreating age range than in 2010.

December actually has the highest candy sales of the year, bringing in $415 million, whereas October only brings in $322 million in candy sales.

from the editor //

Four legs good, two legs BAAAD

P

eople are ugly; animals are cute. When I’m looking at an advertisement for anything, I’d rather see the adorable faces of innocent puppies and kittens than some stiff corporation owner baring his beached teeth at the camera. Even if the corporate owner was someone as cute as, say, Colin Firth. Western society just loves animals, sometimes more than we seem to love our human counterparts.

This is likely the reason why, when a farm of exotic pets recently went to the dogs, the public didn’t care about the farm’s owner who had just committed suicide. No, our eyes were all turned to the Bengal tigers, baboons, and lions that were let loose by Terry Thompson, the owner of the private Muskingum County Animal Farm in Ohio, before he took his own life. Of the 56 animals from the farm, 49 have been shot by the sheriff’s deputies, which has caused a serious rage response from animal lovers. Caring more about dead animals than dead humans is a common occurence. Animals need to be protected, defendants say, because they can’t speak for themselves.

Regardless of our priorities, politicians know that animals are the quickest way to appeal to voters.

With the Vancouver municipal election quickly approaching, candidates are working hard to make sure their campaign platforms are getting heard. Gregor Robertson and his team are talking about issues like affordable housing and homelessness, becoming a green city with initiatives like backyard chickens, generating the job market, and making neighbourhoods safer. Suzanne Anton and the NPA are putting their efforts towards homelessness, a Vancouver streetcar, and one of their candidates, Jason Lamarche, is advocating to ban the retail sale of dogs, which, among other things, will work to combat puppy mills. Lamarche, it says in his profile, is a lover of dogs.

Hey, so am I! Which is precisely why dogs appear in the NPA’s platform. By advocating for the ban of the sale of dogs sold in pet stores, Lamarche is proving himself to be a very good politician. Despite the fact that we have significant social problems in Vancouver, addressing them doesn’t capture people’s hearts. By including dogs in his platform, Lamarche is implying that he will advocate for those fluffy, loveable, adorable, wide-eyed creatures without a voice of their own.

And really, who could vote against that?

Lamarche isn’t the first politician to push puppies. The White House’s administration has owned a slew of dogs over the years, the latest member being Bo, the Obama family’s pooch. William Lyon Mackenzie King was the proud owner of many Irish terriers, and the Queen of England has a thing for corgis. Owning a pet and making it part of your family makes any photo opportunity instantly more

Almost 75,000 tonnes of pumpkins and squash were produced in Canada in 2010, and another 42,380 tonnes were imported.

// editor-in-chief

with JJ Brewis

“Have you heard about this C.E.T.A. agreement the federal government is trying to sign? Total madness. Canada will be sold piece by piece!”

Pffft. Have you no faith in your fellow Canadians? I doubt that Anne Murray and Gordon Campbell and Rick the Temp would allow such a disaster to happen. But in a way, it would kind of be cool? I mean, it would suck, obviously, but if it does happen, we should be optimistic about a new future. Maybe we can have “USA presents: Manitoba!” and they can send some D-listers like Haylie Duff and Jeff Foxworthy to come and be the governors of this new territory. Yeah, sounds pretty tragic, I guess. Maybe we should all do what we’ve been meaning to do for so long: pack up our shit and move to Johnny Depp’s private island.

“If I was a camel, I would definitely have two humps, for extra swagger.”

I was passing this big billboard today with two camels on it, and I said to my friend Tanya, “I want to ride a camel so bad!” Do you think it’d be

* Courtesy of StatsCan

— Sarah Vitet

The Voicebox

Look for the Voicebox on Tuesday afternoons in the Birch cafeteria, to anonymously “voice” your “opinion” on any “topic.” Introverted alternatives include emailing your opinion to voicebox@capilanocourier.com, or texting (778) 886-5070.

9,575 Canadians reported their religion as “Wicca” in 2001.

heartwarming. Animals can turn any cold and unapproachable politician into a relateable, compassionate individual.

Take Stephen Harper, for example. Not known for his cuddliness, Canada’s Prime Minister has made his love for cats well-known, even before his days in office. Last year he even held a poll on Facebook to let Canadians decide the infamous internet meme what to name the newest four-legged member of his family (the voters were overwhelmingly in favour of Stanley). Arguably one of the most famous pictures of Stephen Harper is the one where he is cradling an innocent orange kitten in his open palm. His left hand is tickling the kitten’s little tummy, and together they’re quite a convincing pair.

Oh, wait. The kitten doesn’t make Stephen Harper look cuddly at all. The kitten looks utterly perturbed. But yet this friendly photo-op is working, and people assume that the PM does have a heart, because he loves cats.

I love animals as much than the next person (maybe more, actually, I have a folder on my computer called “cute animal pics”), but they shouldn’t be used as political pawns to help individuals get elected.

Animal issues should also not be prioritized over all of the human rights concerns that are going on. Come up with solutions to our unappealing social issues, and you will get my vote.

Animals are cute, but that doesn’t mean they get to be the focus of electoral campaigns and media broadcasts. Certainly, they’re not at the forefront for everybody, but they’re always there, lurking in the corner, prepared to show their fuzzy faces when the campaign is starting to slip into the dog house. Don’t forget, however, that Suzanne Anton wants us to elect her because she’s a woman and we’ve never had a “woman mayor” in Vancouver. So while voting someone in based on their love of dogs may be extremely fickle, it’s at least better than voting someone in only because of their gender.

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hard? I guess if I chose to ride a two hump camel, like our friend here has, I’d have two to sit between. But then you realize that the humps are actually filled with 80 pounds of fat, and that’s actually not very swagger-like at all. Ew. Nobody, I mean NOBODY, wants to be sandwiched in 160 pounds of fat. But I mean, camels are still cute, so now I’m having a bit of a conflict. Fuck.

“Today I was having green curry at Noodle Box. Then I found a green caterpillar in it and had to deal with that.”

Protein!

Just saw Rick Genest (Zombie Boy) at the bank. Thought of you.

For those of you unfamiliar, Zombie Boy is a man from Montreal who has his entire body tattooed like a skeleton, and has gone from Montreal street artist to international fashion model. The thought of him banking is hilarious. I can just imagine an old granny behind him in line just disgusted, and then him going up to the teller and having enough money to buy her a life supply of Weetabix and gold chains.

ne w s

EDIT OR // Gurpreet Kambo // ne w s @ c api l ano c o uri e r. c o m

WE, WE, WE SO EXCITED! The Courier’s Guide to the CSU’s AGM

By Gurpreet Kambo // writer

and Samantha Thompson // editor-in-chief

I

the capilano courier | vol. 45 issue 7

t’s the end of October, a time of year when terror takes hold of every man and woman on campus. Demons, ghouls, and all manner of ugly and horrifying creatures are gleefully prancing around demanding your attention.

In other words, it’s the CSU’s Annual General Meeting, and the executives need a minimum of 40 students in order to make quorum. The purpose of this meeting is to present proposed resolutions which the CSU executive committee does not have the power to make themselves, like bylaw changes or matters that are restricted by the bylaws. The general membership will also vote on the proposed amendments to the 201112 budget, as well as have the opportunity to ask their elected executives questions.These meetings can occasionally be fraught with heated debate, particularly over the more contentious issues. As the meeting presents a lot of information in a very short time frame, here is the Courier’s sneak peek into what’s coming up at the CSU’s AGM on Oct. 27.

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non-executive members, merely that it be submitted by the deadline. In essence, this is making it harder for both the executives and general members to submit resolutions.

SPECIAL RESOLUTION 4 Resolution 4’s purpose is to tighten up the language around who can be a signing officer.

Currently, it doesn’t specify anyone in particular (although, in practice, it is executives only). This amendment changes it so that only executives or staff can be appointed to be signing officers, and a language change for clarification of who can that any document must have the signature of at vote in elections. least one executive member.

SPECIAL RESOLUTION 9 SPECIAL RESOLUTION 5 This motion is also about the elections, and proThe fifth resolution on the agenda proposes that poses that a section about “Election Security” be $75,000 from the prior year’s surplus be allocated added to Bylaw VII, which is the bylaw pertainto the new student lounge space that is planned ing to the conduction of elections. The new electo be built in the library building. Previously, the tion security would include serial numbers on general assembly approved $200,000 from the ballots, and the initials of an authorised election separately levied building fund to be used on official signed on each ballot when it is issued to the voter. this project.

SPECIAL RESOLUTION 6

Resolution 6 presents quite a few sweeping changes to the budget that was approved at the last general meeting in the spring semester. Most THE BEGINNING of these changes are a reallocation of a personnel If the AGM agenda is accepted as presented, the expenditure of $46,000 dollars that was accidenmeeting will start off with several reports from tally budgeted twice. It reallocates a number of the executive to the membership. This year, items, most significantly: students will see the audited financial state➼ Events: from zero to $14,500 (new line item) ments for 2010/2011, financial reporting on the Building Fund, and a report from the CSU’s ➼ Stipends: $10,000 more, for a total of $85,000.

Organizational Review Working Group. The re- This is due to resolution 1 proposing to increase ports on organizational review and the building stipends for executives fund are coming forward as a result of motions ➼ Legal Fees: $20,000 more for a total of passed at the semi-annual general meeting that $22,000. occurred in March of this year. Following these reports, the AGM will launch right into the proposed ➼ Professional Fees: $3,000 increase to a total of $8,000. The CSU approved $5,000 in profesSpecial Resolutions. sional fees this past summer, which have already SPECIAL RESOLUTION 1 been used up.

This is an amendment to the policy about remu➼ Clubs: $1,336 increase to $2,336 neration of executive members. Currently, they have to submit all reports and collect stipends ➼ Office Chairs: $4,200 increase to a total of for the month by the 15th day of the following $5,000 month at the latest. The resolution seeks to give ➼ Games Table: new line item - $3,000 them an extra two weeks to submit reports and collect their pay.

SPECIAL RESOLUTION 7 SPECIAL RESOLUTION 2 Related to resolution 3, it proposes that motions This resolution is proposing changing the time- for AGMS may also be submitted directly by the line in which the CSU is required to hold its fall electoral committee.

AGM. In this motion, it is proposed that the fall SPECIAL RESOLUTION 8 AGM timeline be pushed back, so that the meeting is somewhere between Oct. 15 and Nov. 30, This resolution combines several amendments approximately a month later than what it says into one motion, all related to procedure about right now. The reason for this change is because the CSU’s election of executive committee memcurrently the AGM is required to be held very bers. The first change adds a stipend of $250 to shortly after the fall election – severely strain- any member of the electoral committee who is ing the resources and manpower of the staff not also a member of the CSU’s executive.

The second change is significant because it and executives. mandates that polling will occur at Capilano’s SPECIAL RESOLUTION 3 Sechelt and Squamish campuses. Giving the reThis resolution, if passed, will require that items gional campuses the vote was a decision made may only be put on the agenda for an AGM ei- by this year’s electoral committee, whereas previther by a 66 per cent vote of the executive com- ously, voting was restricting to the CSU’s paying mittee, or by petition of 1 per cent of the mem- members at the North Vancouver campus. The bers of the CSU (all Capilano students) by an remaining changes alter the paper size used for individual member. Previously, it only required election notices, adds that postering must also a 51 per cent majority of the executive, or for be done at Sechelt and Squamish, and suggests

SPECIAL RESOLUTION 10 Special Resolution 10 proposes changes to a policy instead of a bylaw. It suggests that the election policy be altered to reduce the amount of campaign materials a candidate can produce in an election, from 150 total, down to 125. With this crucial amendment, candidates will be able to have 25 posters up to 11”x17” in size and 100 posters sized 8 1/2”x11”. Presently, the maximum is 15 posters 11”x17”, as part of the 150 maximum number of pages each candidate is allowed.

SPECIAL RESOLUTION 11 This motion relies very heavily on the proposed budget amendments also being approved by membership, because it increases the pay of CSU positions. The proposed stipend increases are as follows: Staff Relations Officer from $100 to $400; CSU representatives to the Board of Governors, Senate and Alumni Association from $35 to $100; Signing Officers from $35 to $50; and Portfolio positions (chairperson of policy, financial affairs, etc.) from $100 to $250. The proposed increases in stipends are being put forward without changing the official requirements of the positions.

The second component to this motion requires that the policy committee review the terms of reference for all the remunerated positions and provide recommendations at the semi-Annual General Meeting in the Spring.

SPECIAL RESOLUTION 13 This motion is a request that David Clarkson (current chairperson of the CSU executive) and Bahiyyih Galloway (previous board member) be remunerated for work they did prior to the AGM. Both Galloway and Clarkson failed to submit their request for remuneration by the date outlined in the remuneration policy, and as a result, they have sent their request to the general membership for approval or rejection. Notably, the executive committee has violated the policy pertaining to remuneration by approving Galloway’s stipend request after the deadline several times.

However, these two requests are not exactly the same. Galloway is requesting remuneration for March, April and May 2011, whereas Clarkson is requesting remuneration for the entire period between June 2010 and May 2011.

This issue only ended up coming to the AGM because several executives took issue with Clarkson attempting to collect stipends for a whole year at once when the policy was clear that they must be collected monthly. Previously, the executive had allowed a small amount of leeway by approving stipends that were a few days or a couple of weeks late. Stipends are approved by fellow executives in order to ensure the work was completed properly, which keeps the Board accountable. The concern raised was the difficulty of approving responsibilities for pay periods from so long ago.

Notably, the motion was submitted by Clarkson on his own. Galloway was not aware that a request had been submitted on her behalf, when questioned by the Courier on Oct. 21.

SPECIAL RESOLUTION 14

This motion was submitted by a general member, and is related to Special Resolution 12. In the whereas clauses, it outlines the situation through which the CSU violated its bylaw and then neglected to remedy the situation. The CSU entered a contract with the law firm Heenan Blaikie with SPECIAL RESOLUTION 12 the agreement that they would have a lawyer This special resolution ties in with Special on retainer. Currently, the CSU can enter into Resolution 14, because it is changing the by- a contract with a value of up to $1,000 without law that 14 is stating has been broken. Special the approval of the membership; however, the Resolution 12 would allow the executive to en- retainer agreement exceeded that amount. The ter into contracts with a value of $25,000 with motion states that because the executive, upon the duration of up to one year, with a two-thirds realizing they were in conflict with Bylaw XIII, did majority approval by the executive committee. not terminate the contract, they acted outside of Previously any contract over a value of $1,000 their authority. The motion asks for the assembly had to be brought before a general meeting to recognize that the executive acted outside of for approval. This resolution also lowers the their authority, that the contract be terminated threshold for approval at a general meeting immediately, that the CSU executive be required from a special resolution (two-thirds majority) to adhere to the CSU’s bylaws, and also outlines to an ordinary resolution (50 per cent + 1 ma- provisions for what should happen in the event jority). The exception to the $25,000 amount the executive violates CSU bylaws in the future. would be a contract pertaining to the health and dental plan, which could last for up to You can see the proposed budget and bylaw three years. amendments at www.csu.bc.ca

N e ws

CSU BREAKS THEIR BYLAW

NEws Brie f s

Whatever though, no big deal

By Evelyn Cranston // staff Writer

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are initiatives of members themselves.”

A general member has taken such an initiative, with the proposal of Special Resolution 14 to be addressed at the next AGM. It points out that the CSU has acted “outside of its authority on this matter, as laid out in the bylaws” by entering into, and failing to cancel when recognized, contracts that break Bylaw 13, Section 4. It proposes that “the retainer agreement be paid up to the current date, and subsequently the contract be immediately terminated on account of not being compliant with CSU bylaws.” It continues to suggest that the CSU executive committee be required to constantly remain compliant with its bylaws and if an item that is approved by the executive that is later found to be non-compliant, expenses are terminated and it is brought to a general meeting, with an explanation for non-compliance.

For other members who would like to address this issue, Todd has a few suggestions relating to his experience with the KSA. Members could hold discussion groups, call a special general meeting, pass resolutions, try to force a referendum, appeal to the registrar for investigation or petition the court for an investigation. He explains, “Of course, they can make sure they vote and encourage other students to vote for candidates who share their principles and values.“ It can be, according to Todd, “exceedingly frustrating,” given that students are short term members, don’t have very much money or time, and have little to no experience with these types of issues.

When asked what kind of action a society member could take if they were concerned their society was breaking a bylaw, the Societies Section of the Corporate Registry in Victoria echoed Todd in their suggestions. They stated, “You can call a meeting and talk to the director, and address it in a meeting. We don’t call for investigations. Sometimes people send letters complaining about something going on in a society but we don’t get involved in the internal workings of a society.” The representative suggested taking the executive to a small claims court, although she warns it will be “a very expensive, long proceeding.”

Todd hopes the directors will “recognize their error and seek proper authorization for their decisions – admit their error, explain the situation, then follow the procedures set out in the bylaws.”

Occupy Everything The Occupy Wall Street movement has made its way to the Capilano campus, spearheaded by creative writing student Teaana Munro. They are planning their “occupation” for Tuesday, Oct. 25 from 8:30 AM to 11:30 PM in the lower cafeteria. There are teachins being facilitated by Capilano students and professors on various topics, including “Decolonization”, “Protest Genres”, and “Thoughts on Genetically Modified Organisms”, among others.

Simultaneously, there will be a series of shorter “read-ins”, in which there will be discussion regarding the roles of media/literature in social movements.

Every hour, there will also be musical marches around campus to make students aware of the occupation.

Shake it Baby On Oct. 20, Capilano University students participated in “Shakeout BC”, a province-wide earthquake drill. The annual event is held to ensure that British Columbia residents are prepared for “the big one”, a major earthquake that experts predict will affect BC and the West coast within the next 50 years. Capilano students only took nine minutes to go from the drill evacuation, outside to emergency areas, and then back to their desks.

Helter Skelter Capilano University has received a donation of $100,000 from the family of June Manson to support a Squamish high school graduate in pursuing postsecondary education. June Manson’s husband Bill was a founding member of the Capilano College board of governors in 1968, and continued to serve Capilano University in many capacities over the years. In recognition of his service, Manson received an honorary lifetime student card in 1995, and a President’s Service award in 2008.

By Gurpreet Kambo // News Editor,

// Natahsha Prakash

the capilano courier | vol. 45 issue 7

hen a governing body in charge of students’ money abuses the bylaws that keep the organization in line, you would expect something dramatic to occur as a result. But in reality, not a lot seems to happen, as the Capilano Students’ Union (CSU) has been doing some bylaw bending recently in order to accommodate a legal retainer contract.

Previously, the CSU has paid for legal counsel on an hourly rate, and the monthly cost varied depending on how much the legal services were used. On Sept. 19, the CSU entered into a contract with law firm Heenan Blaikie indefinitely, allowing weekly meetings and unlimited contact with a lawyer at a flat rate of $2,000 per month.

However, in doing this, the CSU is breaking one of their own bylaws: Bylaw 13, Section 4.

The bylaw states that “all contracts and agreements entered into by the union exceeding $1,000.00 in gross value and for duration of time exceeding one year shall be approved by the special resolution at a general meeting.” This contract was approved only by the CSU executive.

David Clarkson, Electoral Committee Chair, states, “I think there was a misunderstanding [on the part of the CSU executives] about the application of the bylaw.” The bylaw as it currently stands is challenging, according to Clarkson, because “it’s such a small amount of money and time that we can approve contracts with, it would be practically impossible for us to run the organization in compliance with it.”

“The CSU may want to consider revising that section of the bylaw because it seems to be rather restrictive,” said Titus Gregory, who has chaired a number of general meetings for the CSU in the past.

Clarkson explains, “For the CSU to act in absolute compliance with the bylaw would require us to terminate our U-pass contract, our health plan contract, [and] our lawyer contract.” As students have already paid their fees for the Health and Dental plan and have been receiving their U-Passes, cancelling these contracts may be logistically impossible.

In fact, Clarkson states, “we’re tallying up all of our contracts over $1,000 , and there are more than you could imagine.”

However, the new contract for legal counsel states, “The engagement may be ended by you or us at any time.” When it came to light that the CSU was breaching the bylaw, they had the option of terminating the legal retainer contract, or bringing it to a general meeting, albeit a bit late.

The legal contract is not being brought to the next Annual General Meeting on Oct. 27 by the executive, and it appears the CSU will continue to pay for the legal contract on a month-to-month basis. The solution for the time being is, according to Clarkson, “to maintain our first priority, which is to ensure the accountability of the organization and to protect the best interests of the members, but to also allow us to operate the society, in an effective and accountable manner.”

The CSU executive has proposed Special Resolution 12 as a means of retroactively fixing the problem. The proposed bylaw amendment will be put forth for discussion by the general membership at the AGM. The resolution will, if adopted, allow the CSU to enter into contracts up to $25,000, a jump from the $1,000 previously allotted, if those contracts are approved by a two-thirds majority vote from the executive

committee. Any contract exceeding these values must be approved by special ordinary resolution at a general meeting. Bylaw 13, Section 4 will be sent to the Finance Committee for further review.

Clarkson explains that the new resolution will grant the executive more spending power, but make it more difficult internally to spend the money, because of the two-thirds vote. Contracts are currently approved by a majority vote of the general membership. If this resolution passes, it will make it so that the CSU is no longer breaking its bylaw with the legal contract. Clarkson admits there must be a limitation on these kinds of resolutions. “You don’t want a board of directors to just be able to go and spend money at will,” he says.

The CSU has not been considering the option of cancelling the contract, according to Clarkson.

He states, “The facts are that the CSU needs legal counsel and we’re going to continue on the path that we’re on … We would be getting the services anyways, it’s just how we pay them at this point.

We’re not going to go and cancel other contracts that we’re involved with on the account of the realization that we’ve had.”

Clarkson admits that the CSU is in a difficult place right now. He states, “It does seem to be the case that we’re not fully colouring between the lines, but examination of the facts will tell that there’s no mal-intent.” Gregory lightly adds, “Perhaps the CSU should consult their lawyer to see if it’s okay to consult their lawyer.”

Matt Todd, a former executive in the Kwantlen Student Association (KSA) and a former White Rock City Council member has experience with broken bylaws. Last year, he took the KSA to task over bylaw grievances with the KSA board. He’s found that there aren’t many legal repercussions for a society that doesn’t follow bylaws. He states, “The Society Act of BC and a society’s bylaws are not recognized by the RCMP. The Act and the bylaws are regulated by the province's Registrar of Companies.”

He explains that although the registrar could request an investigation, they typically do not choose to, due to budget restraints. As well, members could petition the court for a remedy, although Todd explains this can be expensive and courts don’t usually have the time or patience for these types of issues. “The only remaining actions

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news

Keep Yourself Safe on Campus While rare, emergency situations are not unheard of on campus

By Natahsha Prakash // Writer

“S

he was executed … she wasn't given a fighting chance at all," said Roseleen Batalia to Global National, of her late sister Maple Batalia. An amateur model and health and sciences SFU student, Batalia was brutally murdered in a parkade on SFU Surrey campus late at night after a study session with her friends on Sept. 28.

Though no suspect has been identified to date, Roseleen Batalia said she will not rest until her sister’s killer is brought to justice. "A message to the criminals who executed my sister at SFU Surrey on Sept. 28, 2011: you can run, but you can't hide,” she wrote online. “Your mothers can only shelter you for so long … Playing God with a gun, prison is gonna be hell."

While this murder has sent shockwaves across the Lower Mainland, the death has also gotten Capilano Students thinking about their safety on campus. Personal security is a concern that lurks in the back of many students’ minds, and to this end, Capilano has a security team in place, working 24/7 to ensure that campus is safe for everyone.

“We’re looking for things that are out of place to prevent situations before they happen,” says Graeme Kennedy, Security Site Supervisor.

“Anything from loose bike locks, holes in walls, or even loose floor tiles.” Security are fully trained in First Aid, often checking with students who have known medical problems and offering aid to those in need. For those who are not familiar, there is an equipped First Aid room in the ground

floor of Arbutus, next to the CapCard centre.

In the event of an emergency, there are several procedures in place to ensure the situation is quickly brought under control. There are nine emergency phone beacons around campus, which, when activated, immediately alert security that there is a situation. Within minutes, the security personnel will arrive in a First Response vehicle. They can offer immediate First Aid; however, they recognize that some situations may need more highly trained assistance. “We are not doctors and we don’t pretend that we are,” says Kennedy. Security is on scene to be the first respondents, to call 9-1-1 if necessary, and to assist emergency personnel in any way necessary once they are on scene.

There are also things that students can do to ensure they will not find themselves in emergency situations in the first place. “It’s about being aware of the possibilities: follow your instinct. It’s [also] about being proactive and communicating more,” says Kennedy. “Work in groups and inform yourselves on the procedures. Be aware of transit schedules, university opening and closing hours, and don’t hesitate to contact security.”

He also mentions a service called “SafeWalk” in which students may call security to escort them to the bus stop or to their cars. This may be especially useful for students taking night classes.

Around campus in cased displays are posters that list the protocol for various emergency situations – anything from bomb threats to hot summer days on campus. Kennedy recommends that students familiarize themselves with these procedures, as this information is vital to students staying safe on campus. Violent

// Natahsha Prakash intruders and bombs, while extremely rare and unlikely occurrences, must also be prepared for with the same seriousness. In situations like this, “it’s about whatever buys you time; avoid ground level/easy eye levels, stay together in groups, keep away from windows and set up barricades,” says Kennedy.

One potential safety concern that has risen in prominence much more recently is the check-in feature on ubiquitous social networking websites such as Facebook. A new addition to Facebook’s ever-increasing prominence in day-to-day life, users are now able to “check in” online to places that they have physically arrived at; for example, the Capilano library, or the CSU lounge. When asked about the potential safety implications of a feature like this, Kennedy says, “We use it naively; we are still evolving our use with it [and] it has to be treated with respect.”

Kennedy took note of the recent Stanley Cup riots, where the use of social media helped identify those who many of the rioters. How-

ever, broadcasting one’s location can be “really dangerous,” as Katie Linendoll, a “tech expert” noted in a story for CBS News. “If I say that I'm on vacation in Los Angeles for a week, that also says my place is completely empty for a week. If you have somebody kind of semi-cyber-stalking you or somebody upset with you, you say you're gonna be at the mall – not always a good idea.”

While overall, most students agree that the Capilano campus is a relatively safe place at all hours of the day, that belief should not be taken for granted. Students should endeavour to make themselves aware of the safety procedures that exist on campus in the event of emergencies or physical danger. Two of the most important parts of ensuring a safe campus are watching for others who might be in need of assistance, and not hesitating to call security if there is anything that appears suspicious. In the end, security personnel are on campus to ensure that all students are safe, comfortable, and able to pursue their studies without fear or endangerment.

‘Hellmouth’ Discovered Under New Film Building Sharp rise in demonic possession

By Colin Spensley // Writer

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t’s quite hard to miss the imposing hall of mirrors being constructed on the north side of Capilano University. Construction has been under way for nearly 13 months on the new film studies building, and shows no sign of stopping.

Besides an upswing in the whirring of saws and clatter of hammers, a new problem has arisen from the depths of the construction site: in a project that has had a series of misfortunes befall it, including being over budget and over schedule, perhaps the most distressing of all is the opening of a portal to hell.

“Basically what we’re looking at here is a hole, a real big one,” says an anonymous contractor for the development company in charge of the plumbing of the new film building. “A guy we call Lil’ Tony came up to me a few weeks ago and says to me, he says, ‘Oi! We got this sink hole ova’ ‘ere but I keep hearin’ these screams comin’ out and smellin’ sulfur and the like’. ” Upon further investigation, the contractor discovered the hole had no bottom and anything that was sent down came back up charred and maimed. “To be honest,” he says, “the hole could have been open for months, years even – we were all on summer vacation. I don’t really know

// Katie So what’s down there, we’ve stopped work ‘round the hole, we’re callin’ it the ’Hellmouth’; kinda cute, y’know, but the boys on site are spooked, and I wouldn’t go near that thing if ya paid me time-and-a-half! You know what I mean, buddy?”

Disturbing as the presence of the Hellmouth is, nothing could send shivers down the spine of a student more than the idea of a demonic faculty. A little research into the stacks of Capilano’s dustiest archives turned up history of previous encounters with the netherworld, including a comprehensive guide entitled How to Spot a Demonic Possession. On the outside, according to this guide, the signs are easy enough to spot.

Watch for suddenly occurring unusual behaviour, such as eyes that flash red when the angered, or

sudden craving for questionable raw meats . If your language instructor suddenly starts speaking in tongues and flailing on the floor, it probably isn’t part of the course material.

Hank (name has been changed to protect identity, agent of Satan or not) is a member of the business faculty who claims to be possessed by a “lower” demon. “Three thousand years we’ve been trapped,” croaks Hank from the dark corner of a janitor’s closet, his new home. His skin is loose and pasty, and his teeth are sharpened to lethal points. “Trapped under the mountain waiting to break free. And now! Thanks to your silly human building we are almost ready…” He trails off in a hiss.

When asked about some sort of compromise, Hank’s head rotates 360 degrees and he spits a venomous laugh that shakes the racks of cleaning products. “We will take you, take you all! No one is safe! The dark lord has begun to unleash his plot of death and destruction and no one can stand in the way! Have you ever seen a leviathan swallow a city bus? Have you seen winged beasts tear a man limb from limb? The dawn of a new era is upon you mortal! Take heed and try and flee.” At this point, Hank leaps to the ceiling as if by some magnetic force and scurries away into an air duct.

So who can save Capilano (and the world)

from an impending demonic take over? Well, anthropology student Jane Whendon seems to have come up with a plan. “We were like … studying some ancient rune stones in Anthro class last week but like, our teacher suddenly grew fangs and tried to sacrifice some homely girl to Beelzebub. We were all pretty scared but like, my Grandma has a history of practicing Wicca so I’m a bit ahead in this Occult rune reading thing so I tried to cast this crazy spell of confining and it totally worked!” Jane’s tone is proud but bored.

“When I tried to ask our demonic teacher about what was going on, she just kept screaming the same thing over and over: ALL HALLOWS EVE, ALL HALLOWS EVE, YOUR LIVES WILL LEAVE!’ So, right away I called up Granny and she said we need to find this ‘Soul Mirror’” – she uses her fingers to make air quotes – “thingy which can bounce the demons right back to the forsaken pit of Hades that they came from. … But like, I have volleyball practice and a paper due this week so I’m not sure if I’ll have time to look.”

With only one week before Oct. 31, the students and unpossessed faculty can only hope and pray Jane finds the Soul Mirror and saves humanity (or at least Capilano). If not, Capilano will probably be looking at an incredibly “scorching” winter.

the ca p ca l e n da r C e l i na W i th

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m o n d ay o c t. 2 4 BETTY THE GREYHOUND IS MISSING This loveable brindle and white greyhound-cross was recently rescued in Saskatchewan, and brought to Vancouver where she found a “forever home”, only to jump a fence in North Vancouver and go missing. If you see her, call Erin Raimondo at 778-321-0360. She was last seen near Mountain Highway, in Lynn Valley, and will likely be very scared and unused to the elements.

PORTISHEAD These classic heavy guys are coming to town!

All the stuff I've heard from these guys is really cool; according to their wiki page, their music genre is “experimental, trip-hop, downtempo, [and] lo-fi.” Basically, they were formed in 1991, so if you dig that and you have money, you should check them out.

7 PM. PNE Forum. $71.

COSTUME IDEA MONDAY The costume idea for today is: Eminem! The ubiquitously charming and cheeky whiteboy rapper, living the American Dream. Check out one of his videos and just copy what he wears.

HIGHER LEARNING : AUNTS AND UNCLES & THEE AHS This super-cool night will feature live music from established locals Aunts & Uncles and Thee Ahs, as well as DJs Glennie and Emmie, and food and drink specials! YUM. 9 PM – 2 AM. Library Square. $6/$5 with student ID.

FOO FIGHTERS with CAGE THE ELEPHANT The old drummer in my band LOVED the Foo Fighters. It was literally his favourite band. That was kind of why we ended up having to find a new drummer. He just loved the Foo Fighters too much.

7 PM. Rogers Arena. $53.75 - $75.50

SHINDIG NIGHT #7 This is still happening! It takes a really long time to crown the new rising kings of the Vancouver music scene! This week features Fathoms, From Birch to Yew, and Rec Centre.

Check it out, bring a joke win a beer, and root for your fava-flave!

8 PM. The Railway Club (579 Dunsmuir St.). $8.

COSTUME IDEA TUESDAY Today's costume idea is: a bear! Wear fuzzy brown pajamas, and make yourself a paws out of fuzzy brown gloves. Make a little pair of ears with fuzzy material ttached to a headband, and use some facepaint to black out your nose and give yourself whiskers. Bonus points if you make cookies shaped like little fish so it looks like you are eating fish, or if you just eat berries all day!

JAZZ AT PRESENTATION HOUSE From the web page, “Alto saxophonist David Branter and guitarist Jared Burrows are joined by the hard-swinging rhythm section of Dave Robbins on drums and Al Johnston on bass for a set of originals and standards. The 26th is also Hugh Fraser's birthday so expect a tune or two from Hugh's great songbook.” Jared Burrows and Dave Robbins are both professors at Capilano, so be sure to hit this up for some serious jazz!

WHAT THE HELL WEDNESDAY As in the song by Avril Lavigne. “Love hurts, whether it's right or wrong”; Avril, how do you know me so good? I think we can all learn something from this sassy little Canadian pixie-girl.

She's just like, fuck you, yeah I'm gonna turn this music video into an advertisement for my perfume and clothing line. I do what I fucking want.

UNTHANK CINEMA WEDNESDAY Get excited for Halloween with a late-night screening of Night of the Bloody Apes! This movie is described as a “Mexican horror gem featuring actual heart transplant surgery, Mexican girlie wrestling, and the lust of a man in the body of a beast!!” So good! Film! I wish this wasn't late on a school night. :( 10:30 PM – 1:30 AM. Black Dog Video (3451 Cambie St.). Free!

COSTUME IDEA WEDNESDAY Today's costume idea is: yourself when you were 16! Hopefully you haven't thrown away all your clothing from high school, but, to give an example, I would wear a skirt over top of worn-out jeans from American Eagle, Skechers sneakers, and maybe a Motion City Soundtrack t-shirt.

Bonus points: rock an mp3 player that only fits 30 songs on it and download the latest Taking Back Sunday album from Limewire.

BREAD AND ROSES: A HISTORY OF WOMEN IN THE VANCOUVER LABOUR MOVEMENT This is a talk that “will introduce you to key individuals and events since the late 1800s that brought women's issues around work, equality and social concerns to where we are today.”

Cool! So cool. I actually wish I could make it out to this.

7 – 8:30 PM. Rhizome Cafe (317 E. Broadway St.). Free!

COSTUME IDEA THURSDAY Today's costume idea is: the entire cast of West Side Story! This is a fun group costume that will work extra good if you learn all the songs and are able to bust them out wherever. Please someone do this with me next year? Bonus points if you stay in character all night long.

HALLOWEEN AT THE ELECTRIC OWL From JJ: Seattle's Beat Connection headline an evening of great music also featuring loveable hometown boy Teen Daze, Too High Crew, and Blood Diamonds.This is actually gonna be good. You can get your face painted by Blanche MacDonald students, win costume prizes, and see a bunch of sexy vampires and ghosts grind to sick jams. Yup! 9 PM. The Electric Owl (928 Main Street). $12.

SCIENCE WORLD AFTER DARK The website describes this evening “adults-only murder-mystery evening where you can wear your Halloween costume.” This SOUNDS like it would be an awesome idea, but I remember hearing a story about someone who went to this and saw people “doing it” in one of the exhibits. I personally have a lot of really fond memories of Science World, and I kind of want to preserve them.

7 – 10 PM. Telus World of Science. $25/18.

CARLOS RODITI WITH “A” BAND AND NITECAP This is going to be wicked! Roditi is a Brazilianborn jazz trumpeter whose playing is "both powerful and lyrical.” I believe there are student rush tickets available for $10 (don't quote me on that though), so you should head down to the Birch theatre after class and check this guy and twp of your school's large jazz ensembles out!

(PS: I'm in Nitecap lol). 8 PM. The North Shore Credit Union Centre for Performing Arts. $32/29

HALLOWEEN AT SAILOR HAGAR'S Wanna stay in North Van for your weekend? Rock out at the Halloween party at Sailor Hagar's, featuring a costume contest with prizes! North Vancouver's Hunger City will also be spookin' it up on stage with some ghostly covers of Halloween classics.

9 PM. Sailor Hagar's Pub (86 Semisch Ave.). $5.

CULT CLASSICS HALLOWEEN This is just one of the many generic Halloween events happening over the course of this weekend; you can check out our feature on Halloween events for more ideas! This particular event encourages people to dress up as their “favourite cult movie character”, and features a costume contest and DJ Callie spinning “indie, electro, and dance tracks.” 9 PM. Cinema Public House (901 Granville St.). $25/$15 presale.

t u e s d a y o c t. 2 5 OCCUPY CAPILANO UNIVERSITY According to the Facebook page, this is the actual day that the occupation of the cafeteria in the Birch building will happen. Check out Facebook for more information! Students and non-students welcome!

8:30 AM – late at night. Lower Cafeteria (Birch building). Free!

w e d . o c t. 2 6 HUGH FRASER'S BIRTHDAY Who knew, right??? For those who don't have any idea who Hugh Fraser is, shame on you, you should have been paying more attention in Jazz Styles. He's a prominent Canadian jazz trombonist.

t h u r s d a y o c t. 2 7 COMEDY AT THE CALLING This new weekly event features live stand-up every Thursday night. Promising to have “the best of Vancouver’s up and coming talent,” they also feature a variety of food and drink specials, and a “professional” host. Awesome! Vancouver needs way more stand-up comedy!

8 PM. The Calling (1780 Davie St.). $5.

friday oct 28.

CSU HALLOWEEN PARTY Is your Friday starting to seem a little too long, and not creepy enough? Take a break and head over to the CSU Lounge in the Maple building for an awesome CSU sponsored! Expect pumpkin carving, spooky treats, and scary movies!

3 – 6:30 PM. CSU Lounge (Maple building). Free!

s at u rday o c t. 2 9

s u n day o c t. 3 0 HALLOWEVE This is the day before Halloween! This is such a great day! Don't forget to dress up tomorrow!

People who don't dress up for Halloween ALMOST ruin my day, but don't, because I love Halloween so much that it is unruinable. I'm dressing up as Buffy the Vampire Slayer FYI so if anyone wants to be like Spike or Willow or Xander or Giles or anything (costume idea Sunday!) you're totally welcome to do that. I would actually love it.

JACK'S MANNEQUIN If you like piano rock, or are 16 years old, or used to be 16 years old, this is the pre-Halloween event to be at. Also if you want to hang out with me, this is where I'm gonna be, so there's another reason for this to be the event to be at! I'm so exciiited I hope he plays his old materialll.

9 PM. The Vogue Theatre. $29+fees.

JUDAS PRIEST with THIN LIZZY, BLACK LABEL SOCIETY This is probably the scariest show that you could possibly go to, if you are a mom from twenty years ago, and your teen started wearing black clothes and studded t-shirts. These guys were metal, man. My friend Sarah is metal, and she says Judas Priest is HEAVY metal. And not only that, but now they are old, and there's nothing scarier than being reminded of human mortality.

7 PM. Roger's Arena. $42.75-$87

COSTUME IDEA SATURDAY Today's costume idea is: Kermit the Frog! A few ideas: one thing to try is getting or a green unitard, buying some green felt to cut into his neck thing, and cutting a ping-pong ball in half, putting eyes on them, and gluing them to a green toque! These are just some ideas to start; you can google search some pictures of him for inspiration.

the capilano courier | vol. 45 issue 7

CELTIC THUNDER America's greatest Celtic supergroup is coming to Abbotsford! This is a once in a lifetime experience, people! A tast of the ancient Celt tradition! So real! Bring your mom and your mom's friend!

8 PM. Abbotsford Sports and Entertainment Centre. $45-$75

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F e at u r e s

EDIT OR // Ad él ie Houl e- Lachance // s pe c i al fe ature s . c apc o uri e r@ gmai l . c o m

Halloween Helper Making fun of everything you thought you might go to entry into the Roxy, the Blarney Stone, and AuBar, amongst other downtown venues. And it's // Editor-in-chief not just regular entry, it's express entry, complete ith Halloween just around the cor- with drink specials (so that the Club Crawlers can ner, it's time to decide where to par- get into the clubs before the other clubbers and ty party party! This year the whole buy more drinks to get even MORE WASTED). weekend is fair game, which means the events They also promise contests with major prizes. listings are an even bigger nightmare to navigate Anderson says that “probably the scariest than usual. Here are some of this year's top con- part of our event are the crazy costumes people tenders that we've carefully evaluated for your pull off, or the antics you witness on some of the perusal. buses!” (Basically, that means wear a protective chastity belt.) Since clubs always raise their cover Halloween at the Waldorf fee on nights where more than 33 per cent of the Friday/ Saturday/ Sunday/ Monday population is likely to go out, namely Hallow$10+ een and New Years, the Club Crawl seems like it The Waldorf Hotel re-opened their doors and be- might be a pretty good deal. came trendy last year on Halloween, so they've ➼ Recommended Costume: Terry Richardson decided to throw four parties to mark the occa- ➼ Similar to: Bootylicious Halloween at Gossip sion. They claim to take Halloween very seriousDooms Night ly, and to prove it they have a “16 Story Drop of Saturday Doom” that you can try. Alcohol plus free-falling? $100+ Genius.

“The Waldorf is really a great place for parties,” “Leave your shades at home,” warns the descripexplains Daniel Fazio, the Brand and Design tion on the Facebook event page. Not satisfied Manager for the Waldorf. “When you come to with regular three-dimensional reality, Dooms Waldorf, every inch of the building is packed with Night is Vancouver's first and only intangibly cool stuff to see and do.” In addition to the Drop of three-dimensional Halloween event. You supDoom, there will be carnival games and an erotic ply the $100, they supply the 3D glasses. The holographic theatre (one would hope this means plan is to put roughly 4500 people in the Pacific holographic penises, but it will probably just be Coliseum and keep them there “between 10pm titties), and they are bringing in REAL ghosts to [and] 8am,” so in other words, be ready to party like a mob, and don't forget to bring some stimuhaunt their hotel rooms (I mean fake ghosts).

On Friday they're throwing a retro dance party lants (I mean caffeine).

According to Stanley Ho, the Director of Opwith DJ Lady Miss Kier, Saturday promises “an all-star band featuring members of some of the erations for Solid Events (the company orgamost talented bands in the city … playing dark nizing this holographic party), the hefty price is Halloween classics,” says Fazio (Monster Mash due to the enormity of their vision. “The struggle played over and over?), Sunday has Maria in the has always been trying to keep these events afShower headlining a show and playing “all your fordable for everyone,” Ho says. Aside from 3D favourite murder ballads” and on Monday, Ice images jumping out at people, you can expect Cream Social is celebrating their six year anni- to hear some electro music from DJs Showtek, versary with a 50s and 60s-inspired sockhop. So Technoboy, Marcus Schossow, and Arty (Ho rebasically, if you watched Pan Am and thought it fers to them as “world class DJs,” which makes was the scariest thing ever, then the Waldorf is sense because they are all from other countries).

This event is also all-ages, so feel free to bring definitely your Halloween go-to venue. ➼ Recommended Costume: Undead Buddy your little brothers and sisters.

Holly ➼ Recommended Costume: Richie Rich Similar to: Halloween Extravaganza at the ➼ ➼ Similar to: Halloween Costume Ball at SciElectric Owl Social Club ence World

By Sarah Vitet

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Club Crawl Saturday $25+

Parade of Lost Souls Festival Saturday Free+

There are lots of Club Crawls happening, and they are all cleverly titled “Halloween Club Crawl”. The allegedly most popular one is run

by Student Tours. You may have seen their lawn signs erected around campus (or laying in the mud), and wondered, “What is that all about?”

Well apparently, it's been going on for 17 years and helps thousands of students get from party to party without getting lost.

“The Halloween Club Crawl is your best bet for Halloween because your ticket gets you into FOUR different parties as well as a fifth party on the bus between each stop,” explains Amanda Anderson, Director of Operations for Student Tours. “Costumes are mandatory, so everyone is dressed up, and it is a mobile party that literally takes over the downtown core … It is just a major party atmosphere!” (Which means that everybody is going to be WASTED.) They note that the Club Crawl ticket includes

An East Vancouver Halloween tradition, the Parade of Lost Souls once saw 60,000 costumed people walking down Commercial Drive on a family-friendly terror rampage. Funding cuts to Public Dreams forced the event to change structure, with the Secret Souls Walk (as it is now called) leading people through side streets, alleyways, and community spaces. On the walk, participants encounter various forms of entertainment, from dancers and musicians, to street performers and ghouls (yes, ghouls).

After the Walk there is a celebratory dance party/fundraiser at the Maritime Labour Centre featuring DJs Timothy Wisdom, Rico Uno, MY! GAY! HUSBAND! and Cherchez La Femme; they also promise “delightful” fire performers. The festival itself starts on Tuesday with various workshops for people of all ages. ➼ Recommended Costume: Freaky Fairy ➼ Similar to: Stanley Park Ghost Train

A Rad Spooky Time/Dance or Die Friday/Saturday Free – $10 If you like supporting local musicians and DJs and you don't mind dancing (or alternately, dying), then these are the appropriate events for you. According to Natasha Lands, a DJ and organizer for both, they “aren't trying to capitalize on Halloween … When other venues and nights are just stamping Halloween onto their regular nights … we want to create a fun atmosphere, and also create value for peoples' money.”

The Friday event, A Rad Spooky Time (an extension of the weekly Rad Times night), is taking place at the Astoria and has free cover until 11pm, a $500 costume contest, and a candy treasure hunt for free drinks (free candy and free drinks, what more could anyone ask for?). According to Lands, “EXPECT IT TOOO BE RADDD!” For Dance or Die they promise that the Rickshaw will be terrifyingly decorated for the night, with DJ sets in addition to performances by local bands masquerading as super famous bands (Defektors are pretending to be AC/DC, and so on). There is a costume contest for this, too, with fun prizes like vintage clothing store gift cards and cash. ➼ Recommended costume: Zombie Cat ➼ Similar to: Halloween Covers Night at Glen Restricted: Fetish Halloween Saturday $20+ If you're worried the above events won't be sexy enough, this one is actually fetish-themed, which means that your costume should incorporate latex, fishnet, garters, pasties, crotchless catsuits, or whatever makes you look really ready for sex. Unlike most Halloween events where the emphasis is on the costumes, with “sexy” as a byproduct, Restricted is discouraging costumes that are too Halloween-y. “Though full costumes are acceptable for this event, please remember it is first and foremost a FETISH event, so we highly urge all attendees to keep their costumes fetish or kinky in some way,” reads the Facebook event description. So, if you were thinking of wearing one of those big full-body mascot costumes, this probably isn't the event for you. Don't just show up in your underwear, though, as there is $400 in

// JJ Brewis cash for first place in the costume contest (and they reserve the right to refuse entry if you aren't interesting-looking enough).

According to Sylvia Machat, attendee of several previous fetish Halloween nights (when they were known as Sin City), Halloween is a good night for newcomers to the fetish community, as it gives everyone an excuse to get dressed up. “While there is a small dungeon and some people do engage in some kinky play,” explains Machat, “it's generally mostly for show and there's no fucking happening at the event … at least officially, as this is a bar where liquor is served and that combination of activities is illegal in Vancouver – booze & sex, that is.” She explains that it's more of a fetish-themed club night, with the emphasis on dressing up, drinking, and dancing. ➼ Recommended costume: Half-leopard-halfnaked ➼ Similar to: Halloween at Celebrities Bass Coast Halloween Saturday $30+ In Squamish, Bass Coast Halloween is putting on a full-on music festival for the night as an offshoot of the summer Bass Coast Festival. A lineup of electronic and live acts will be performed on two stages, one of which is inside North America’s largest teepee. In addition to music, they are serving local wine and beer with the proceeds going to the Squamish Helping Hands Society (getting drunk is always better when you can feel righteous about it). They are also promising a giant bonfire and seven covered wagons (if you loved playing Oregon Trail, get excited).

According to organizer Andrea Graham, “We transform the venue into a different theme and style each year – it's always a surprise … We bring art into every aspect of the event, and this year we will also have a surprise performance that will utilize the decor.” The costumes at this event are also notoriously impressive (so if you’ve been working on your costume all year, you’re guaranteed to blend right in). As it’s in Squamish, there are shuttles and accommodation options available. ➼ Recommended Costume: Silk Worm ➼ Similar to: ShockOne, Longwalkshortdock and Dark Arps at Five Sixty

F e atu r e s

“FALL”ING IN LOVE WITH FASHION As the leaves change, so doth your wardrobe; so it goes they can really inject a little fun into your daily look, as long as it’s not raining.

By Celina Kurz // Copy editor

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MIXED BAG

he damp, chill footprint of autumn has stomped upon Vancouver, and the time is ripe to get excited about new fall fashion. Like a reverse caterpillar, we shed the colourful wings of our spring wardrobes, full of floral prints and cute gladiator sandals, and envelop ourselves in a cocoon of the boots and heavy winter coats we haven’t worn since last year.

There are many staples that you likely already have in your wardrobe that will last season after season, but fashion is an ever-evolving beast.

Without adding a few new pieces to your closet at the start of a season, it’s easy to feel lost in a crowd of people who seem to be one step ahead of you in the fashion game. Here are a few tips to keep your style looking fresh, modern, and hip.

There are so many new items for autumn that it’s hard to list them all, but here is a little sampler: 1) Wide brimmed hats – “A lot like the ones that were everywhere this summer - but made of felt or wool,” says Barr. These wide-brimmed hats add a touch of elegance to any outfit.

2) Sheer maxi dresses/skirts – This is a true statement item that can cause eyes to pop (in a good way) when worn correctly. Fashionising.com suggests pairing it with an “oversized parka or knit” to counteract the “elegance” of the lightweight, breezy skirt. If you’re a little bit uncomfortable with the idea of showing off your underwear for the world to see, find one with a built-in slip or booty shorts, or just find a cute slip of your own – they can be purchased at most department stores.

3) Pleats – “Pleats are back, and they’re going to be with us for a while yet,” assures Fashionising.

Pleats can be found in skirts, dresses, tops, and even loose slacks, and, depending on how you accessorize, they can be feminine or give your look a bit of edge.

4) Solid metal jewelry – This little trend is a bit of a spin-off of the late swing in fashion towards 1960s mod style, “designs marked by mostly abstract forms and clean, sturdy designs,” according to Fashionising. You’ll see solid-metal cuffs and necklaces in all sorts of different finishes and colours, although they recommend going for the textured finish of hammered metal.

EYE-CATCHING COLOURS

DON’T CALL IT A COMEBACK The definition of a “classic” item of clothing is something that won’t go out of style – but as hard as it is to wrap your head around the idea, classics are making a comeback. Barr mentions that she’s “noticed the reemergence of the classic wardrobe basics – a nice fitting black blazer, the perfect tote bag, a clean, structured peacoat, and a good pair of boots for the colder days.”

In terms of jackets, she’s excited about “looser fitting, button-down wool coats.” These jackets are fantastic because wool is an excellent insulator and will keep you warm and dry in the wettest Vancouver slushes, and they are great to layer underneath with big, chunky sweaters.

In addition to wool, fur has started coming in a big way on runways globally, whether fake

MAKING IT UP AS YOU GO ALONG

or real (as long as the former is of high quality).

Whether it’s a full-on fur coat, fur accents on the collar, or fur sleeves, you’re bound to see it when you’re searching for the perfect jacket - don’t be afraid to take the plunge! Quality fur and faux-fur can make a clothing piece really stand out; if you want to stand out even more, go for coloured fur.

If you love the look of real fur but are queasy about the ethical ramifications, buying used fur doesn’t contribute to the demand, so you can wear it guiltfree. Most vintage and thrift stores will carry a few fur items, so scout them out until you find your perfect piece.

YOU SHOES YOU LOSE Good, solid boots are also a huge necessity in the constant Vancouver drizzle. According to Aldo business manager Colleen Wong, “riding boots are very in” right now. You can find yourself a pair of these clean-cut and classic boots almost anywhere in Vancouver, and a word of advice: spring the extra cash for real leather. Leather is fantastic because it is easy to waterproof and will last season after season, and also just looks so much

// Claire Vulliamy better than synthetic materials.

Aside from leather, the best advice for a waterproof boot would be rubber, unless you manage to find a waterproof pleather boot somewhere.

Frankly, the average pleather (man-made leather) boot you find will not hold up to the constant nastiness of Vancouver streets, and not only will your feet be cold and wet all day, but they will also look worn and nasty after only a few wears. It’s always a good investment to buy a durable, quality-made shoe, even if it means spending more money up front.

The oncoming holiday season will give consumers access to a variety of fun, “party” shoes.

Wong points out that a lot of “fur [and] animal prints” have been coming into her store, and notes that “right now we have holiday stuff, so a lot of glitzy, kind of sparkly things are in too.” Overall, this season has brought in a lot of “brighter colours as well,” such as jewel tones.

Barr also points out that “moccasins have become a hot item,” and although these are a bit harder to incorporate into an outfit than something as classic and clean-cut as a riding boot,

Fall not only brings changes to our clothing, but also to our makeup palettes. Stephanie Titchmarsh, graduate of makeup artistry at John Casablanca Institute and makeup advisor for Cargo at Sears downtown, says that for Autumn, “heavy metal, very intense makeup is really big for eyes, and for lips … it’s a lot more sheer … If you look at the Dior runway show from Dior Fall collection, it’s a really good example of what makeup is kind of leaning towards this fall … either heavy eyeliner and a really dark lip, or really smoky kind of metallic eye and a sheer lip.”

Along with heavy eyeliners and dark shades come big, healthy eyebrows. “Brows are really big this season,” explains Titchmarsh. “Heavy brows are back in, wild and untamed … overplucked, overarched brows make you look aged and dated.” So, don’t be afraid to let ‘em go for a couple weeks. You can also fill them in with an eyebrow pencil to give them a fuller look.

JUST LOVE WHAT YOU WEAR Sometimes, the very idea of finding something to wear in the morning can be exhausting, especially when you’re waking up at 6:30am for an 8:30am class. If you can find yourself items of clothing that you truly love, however, it’s easy to get excited instead of anxious about fashion.

When asked about why she wears what she does, Jessica Heaven, a Capilano student, explains, “I just decide to make an effort because I like the clothes I have in my closet and I want to wear them out … I like to be a little different.”

Fashion can be a creative and fun way to express yourself, and there are large amounts of different trends and styles to choose from and combine this fall. With a little bit of experimentation, it’s not as hard as you think to create a style that’s truly “you”.

the capilano courier | vol. 45 issue 7

With the onset of fall, the sun begins to set earlier and earlier. This increasing darkness in the environment is paralleled in fashion, with richer, more saturated, more sophisticated colours taking over. “The colours I am seeing all over the place are a dark forest green, dark navy blue, mustard yellow, aubergine, maroon, camel, crème, and, black,” says Rosie Barr, an Art Institute student in her fourth quarter studying fashion marketing.

These colours are intense, deeper shades of their root colour, so forget about the pastels of summer and embrace the darkness of fall.

A specific shade that has become increasingly popular is a “burnt” colour – according to fashion blog Fashionising.com, “just about every label and retailer will offer something up in a burnt shade of colour that sits somewhere between red and yellow.” It’s impossible to miss a version of this cozy hue when you’re out shopping, and it works well with almost all skin tones.

Barr additionally emphasizes camel as being an important new neutral – “Really, if you’ve got a piece in that colour, you’re on the right track.” So, when you’re buying items like jackets and cardigans that you want to work with lots of outfits, try something a little different from the typical black and grey, and go for a nice camel.

Also, don’t be afraid to add a little bit of glitz to your outfit. According to Barr, “There are plenty of gold accents [showing up] as well – buttons and snaps and zippers.” Keep an eye out for this glitter on pieces like purses, jackets and shoes. If you’re not one for shine, leopard print is also making a comeback, although Barr recommends keeping it “chic but not tacky, toting one or two pieces that are leopard adorned is best … [even] just a leopard print hair tie is a fun touch.”

9

f e at u r e s

YOU ARE OCCUPY

VAN COU VER

Despite mis

information and media,

youth are at

centre the

Occupy move

ment

Photos and

Illustrated // Graphics by the author

words by

by miles

chic

Lindsay Flynn

the capilano courier | vol. 45 issue 7

“I

10

s America ripe for a Tahrir Square moment?” According to Lauren Bercovitch, producer and production manager for Adbusters, this is the question that was being posed at her office last summer when the world’s attention turned to civil resistance abroad. There was much discussion about the uprisings in Spain, known as the Indignant’s Movement, or the 15-M Movement, as well as the Arab Spring, uprisings and revolution across the Middle East and North Africa, particularly in Egypt, Libya, and Tunisia. The idea of a North American movement has been brewing for months, as Adbusters senior editor Micah White explained in interview with the Vancouver Courier: “We basically floated the idea in mid-July into our [email list] and it was spontaneously taken up by all the people of the world. It just kind of snowballed from there.”

One month later, the movement has picked up momentum from its initial actualization on Sept.17, 2011 in Zuccotti Park, Manhattan, and has now entered the global consciousness.

Activists from Michael Moore to Naomi Klein, and stars like Mark Ruffalo and Lupe Fiasco have since come forward to endorse and participate in this peaceful protest in order to expose the widening gap between the rich and the poor, corporate influence on government decisions, and the absence of legal repercussions for the recent global economic crisis. Bercovitch says that the Adbusters team had no expectations about who would get involved or what would happen. The outcome “has been beyond any of our hopes

of the

and expectations. The feeling is totally exciting and rejuvenating. Adbusters has been working to bring about change, a paradigm shift, for it’s whole existence.”

The surge of inquiries into the activities of Canadian-born Adbusters has been greeted with luke warm feelings at their Vancouver office. Adbusters continues to deny televised interviews and is selective about who they are giving print interviews to. “[The] Canadian media feel a little snubbed by us,” says Bercovitch.

“Canadian [media’s] angle is [that] this started in Canada … We want the focus to be local and on the people who are doing it. The mainstream media don’t understand why we don’t want to be on TV … they don’t understand a leaderless, decentralized movement.”

Bercovitch says that there is room for local, national, and global demands at the Occupy movement: “Vancouver’s needs will be so different from Halifax’s, than Madrid’s, than Cairo’s.”

Thus far Occupy has been widely successful for sparking interest in reform, debate, and making the world a more just and fair place. This is grassroots democracy, where as far as Bercovitch is concerned, “the process is just as important as what comes out of it.”

sunny day outside the Vancouver Art Gallery (VAG). The movement’s website, occupyvancouver.com, reported over 5,000 attendees.

There were people of varying ages, nationalities, genders, and sexual orientations at the event, as well as families and individuals with visible disabilities, all coming from a seemingly wide range of economic situations. Signs were being held high by hundreds of individuals, one reading, “A Beautiful Day for a Revolution.” Others read “Debt + B.A. + Min. Wage = Indentured Servitude”, another “Nobody Does Corporate Greed/ Abuse Quite Like Big Tobacco”, “Hands Off BC Hydro”, along with the simple “My Wellbeing is Linked With Yours.”

The crowd collected on the steps of the VAG on the Georgia Street side, between Howe and Hornby. A colourful tent city was set up, similar to the one in Manhattan. People seemed happy to be coming together, yet nervous and anxious about the severity of the changes they feel need to occur in Canada. The People’s mic was open to any courageous participants in the crowd wishing to express themselves. Some sounded articulate and well informed, others merely angry.

Local politicians, union supporters, students, beat poets, and musicians alike all felt the need to be heard. The diversity was echoed by the indiA Beautiful Day for a Revolution? viduals in the crowd; one thing is certain, there is Oct. 15 marked the official beginning of the a clearly growing desire for change. Here is what Occupy movement in numerous cities across some of the people present had to say: Canada. According to the CBC, the largest showZorin (age 38), a Vancouverite since 1995, said, ing of attendees in any Canadian city, nearing “I’m sick and tired of this whole thing. It would be 3,000 people, rallied at the initial protest on that foolish to think we are living in an OK world, be-

cause we’re not. Everything is falling apart … I’m here cause I really don’t like where we’re going and where we are.” An immigrant from Serbia, he conceded the difficulties of rallying Canadians: “The better life you have, the less interested you are in problems. I really believe that everyone from here needs to go to Darfur, or Afghanistan, or Bosnia for a few months to see what the real world is … [Problems are] created in the nice society where everybody has everything, which means somebody will not have anything.”

Susan (age 50) passed through the demonstration early into the evening and stood timidly on the far edge, alone, listening to the speeches.

“I’ve been following it on the news, and it’s kind of interesting. There’s no one particular message, there’s a lot of different groups, but I think it’s just a real sign that people feel they need change and need to have a feeling of empowerment.” She personally would like to see proportional representation in the electoral system, and more to the point, Harper gone, but was not ready to join the protest and take the cause up to the streets.

Beyond the crowd, messages acknowledging the greater systemic changes that are being demanded were common, and local issues were also at play. The crowd showed strong and keen responses to a man discussing the impending Keystone Pipeline that would run from northeast Alberta to Oklahoma, Illinois and further down the American Gulf Coast. A host of loud booing erupted at the notion of oil tankers navigating the Burrard Inlet for the benefit of our American neighbours.

f e atu r e s Issues beyond the widely acknowledged anger with the current banking system and the environmental crisis were on hand as well.

Tony, a member of the Vancouver 9/11 Truth Movement, felt his group’s focus was part and parcel of the problems facing America.

Vancouver anarchist Frank Lopez, aka the Stimulator, blogged on Vancouver Media Co-op that the idea of occupying Vancouver now is redundant – this is First Nations land. His advice has been followed; “We humbly acknowledge that Occupy Vancouver is taking place on unceded Coast Salish territories” is now clear on the movement’s website.

But here is where people begin to divide. The inclusion of those with contentious or more socially extreme views leaves those with perhaps more moderate points of view feeling isolated. In Canada, in-fighting on the left at both a political and social level is a luxury that perhaps citizens are not aware of.

Deborah (age 27) reflected, “For me this [protest] has an added meaning being from the United States. We’re very lucky here in Vancouver, Canada that our quality of life hasn’t slid as far, but in the USA a lot of people are really, really hurting.”

he figured “what’s the point?” Before Occupy Vancouver, he had been working as a carpenter, where he experienced similar labour market problems, such as being laid off from three jobs within three months. “When I saw Occupy Wall Street happen – I became aware of it from Twitter on the third day of their occupation – I was appalled that there wasn’t media attention, I couldn’t believe what I was seeing. I saw the [protesters] pepper-sprayed in the face … At that point I realized it wasn’t a matter whether to Occupy Vancouver, it was a matter of whether I would be involved … It seemed to me that it was going to turn into a global movement.”

He is confident that Occupy Vancouver will continue indefinitely.

Taking back the future

Revolution as a political platform?

reform, government accountability, and corporate responsibility issues, published on their website 15 key bank and corporate responsibility changes endorsed by 140 citizen groups across Canada. “Canada’s bank accountability and corporate responsibility laws and enforcement systems are full of loopholes and are weakly enforced, and so allow for irresponsible actions by the biggest businesses across the country,” said Duff Conacher, Founding Director of Democracy Watch. “Anyone interested in actually increasing bank accountability and corporate responsibility should support the 15 key changes … to increase whistleblower protection and penalties for irresponsible actions, and to require all big businesses to facilitate the creation of citizen watchdog groups, to take into account stakeholder interests, and to disclose details about all their activities and submit to regular independent audits and inspections.”

It is the hope of the organization that the Occupy Movement here in Canada can embrace these ideas as a way of articulating the specifics of their demands. Here the ideas are clearly outlined calling for major reform to the banking system with transparency and accountability at the forefront of these changes. However, these issues focus on Corporate and Financial Responsibilities with the effect on local communities and the environment only as an aspect.

Power to the People Eric Hamilton-Smith, one of the organizers of Occupy Vancouver, is not anticipating a constructive response from the current government.

“The Conservative government that’s in power has come out and said ‘Occupy Wall Street, we get that, because America has problems’ …

Harper has said that he doesn’t believe this will catch on in Canada because we have the strongest banking system in the world … and we didn’t bail out our banks. This made me a little bit an-

gry, because I don’t appreciate the spreading of misinformation … They did bail out the banks, that’s a fact … [and] it’s a little insulting to my intelligence. It should be pretty insulting to other Canadians. It’s something you can prove false by Googling ‘Canadian Bank Bailout’. ” The issue of whether the banks were in fact bailed out is a topic of debate in Canada, with Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Finance Minister Jim Flaherty standing firm that no such bailout occurred. The official government Economic Action Plan website states, “Through the Insured Mortgage Purchase Program, the federal government purchased $69.35 billion of insured mortgage pools from financial institutions.

The program was allowed to sunset on March 31, 2010, as market conditions had improved markedly since its introduction in October 2008.”

Hamilton-Smith feels that dressing up a bailout in fancy language is still a bailout.

Down at Occupy Vancouver the focus is not on the banks, however, but on replacing the current broken system as whole. General Assemblies are being held daily, where issues are discussed and voted upon via consensus. “The General Assembly has been making incredible progress just in the last several days … At first it was a lot about process … you really need to be respectful of people, you need to listen … so many better things come when you are part of a community.

Where there’s mutual respect for each other.”

Hamilton-Smith described a system in which each issue was being presented with time for addressing the concerns of any individual. No issue was moved forward until there was a clear consensus within the group. He strongly urged others to come down and take the opportunity to experience a real forum for their ideas on the steps of the VAG. Hamilton-Smith is just shy of completing his Masters degree in public policy at Simon Fraser University. With government freezes on hiring,

the capilano courier | vol. 45 issue 7

In the wake of NDP leader Jack Layton’s death, both the official opposition and the much-reduced Liberal party are left with interim leaders after the May’s federal election. Without the charisma of Jack Layton, the NDP are in danger of losing their momentum, and some worry that the Occupy movement will be co-opted by politicians both here and abroad. MLA Adrain Dix for Vancouver-Kingsway, and recent leader of the provincial NDP, released a statement Oct. 14T, saying, “The ‘Occupy Wall Street’ movement represents the belief of many citizens that we live in a world in which the deck is stacked in favour of the few at the expense of the many.” Dix’s office has not responded to Capilano Courier interview requests as of press time. All the major centrist and left wing parties, as well as smaller groups, were represented on Oct. 15 at the VAG. Capilano University professor Reg Johanson has been agitating for involvement with the Occupy movement via social media, and says, “Recuperation by mainstream political parties depends on a) if it remains non-violent, and b) whether it takes a hard anti-capitalist line or a softer reformist line. Right now it’s open enough for any politician to claim. Though politicians seem to be cautious about getting too close to it at the moment … Politicians use social movements to bolster their own support and get themselves elected. Once they are elected, they bargain away the demands of the movement they rode in on, according to whatever principles are most advantageous to themselves and their cronies. They can’t be trusted.

The best thing about the Occupy movement is that people are learning to take power into their own hands.”

Canadian activist Naomi Klein said in the Village Voice, “Don’t worry about [politician’s involvement]. What will make this movement vulnerable is if it doesn’t develop its own democratic mechanisms to speak for itself. Then it’s vulnerable to people using your energy to fight for limited small changes. It’s in your power to not let this happen.” Klein says structure within the movement itself is key to making the presence known and effecting change.

From the initial grassroots movement, more organized and structured ideas are being brought forth. In anticipation of the Canadian Occupy movement, Democracy Watch Canada, an organization that advocates for democratic

Repeatedly people responded to the presence of so many young people at Occupy Vancouver.

Lauren Bercovitch of Adbusters, a young woman herself, feels that “it’s our future we’re fighting for. … People aren’t going to fight for us, we have to take a stand.”

Activist-empowering and resource website whysimplybecause.com posted a video in which David Suzuki implores young people to see the importance of what is going on in their country.

“What I am excited about is all the young people.

Because this is about the future for these young people that is being sacrificed, for the sake of the corporate agenda … It’s their everything and I think they ought to be demanding of their parents and their grandparents and say ‘look, look at where you’ve brought us to …”

Suzuki is clear in his belief that “we are now being ruled by the corporate demand. The corporations come above the public, and this is simply intolerable, it can’t go on. What are corporations for? They exist for one reason and one reason only, they may be doing things we need that are really useful, but their only reason for existence is to make money. And the faster they make the money, the better it is. And that’s just not an acceptable way to run the world.”

Suzuki goes on to bemoan the fact that universities now play into the corporate model where students can get an education solely to become another cog in the great wheel of progress, to feed the economy and push forward the corporate agenda. He recalls a time not too long ago when “universities were places where people could explore ideas at the cutting edge of human thought.

Very radical places, very scary for society, but that’s where all the excitement was.”

At Capilano University, Teeana Munroe has responded to the Occupy movement and is organizing Occupy Capilano. On Tuesday, Oct. 25 from 8:30 am onwards, Munroe will join with other students and staff to occupy the lower cafeteria on campus. Munroe was motivated by a desire to “generate as much interest and dialogue by the student body [as possible] … to ask questions, to voice concerns, to start a dialogue …

Our future is in the hands of very few people. We need a voice for students.” Occupy Capilano will feature talks and workshops on GMO’s, protest techniques, First Nations struggles for decolonization as well as a media cafe, band, open mic readings, and film screenings.

Like many of the Occupy College movements happening across the States and Canada, it will be an open forum for discussing ideas. Teachers Roger Farr, Reg Johanson, and active participants of Occupy Vancouver will speak. Johanson believes “freedom, autonomy, and self-determination are issues that are relevant to everybody. This is what Occupy, at its best, is about: taking control of our own lives … The Occupy movement is a huge global phenomenon. Occupy Capilano will be a chance to learn what it’s all about.”

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a rt s

EDIT OR // Cl aire Vul l iamy // arts @ c api l ano c o uri e r. c o m

GOLD CHAINS AND SWINGING HIPS Theophilus London and Friendly Fires get Commodore into dance mode

// Melissa Dex Guzman

By JJ Brewis // Art director

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V

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ancouver’s legendary Commodore Ballroom gave host to one of the best mish-mashed performances on Oct. 18.

For those unaware of the evening’s lineup, the variety must have come as a pleasant surprise.

Audience members were treated to both UK dance pop in the form of Friendly Fires, as well as New York’s Theophilus London, a flashy, fashionable rapper more influenced by classic hip-hop than contemporary.

London did his job of warming up the crowd, and then some. Fresh off the release of his longawaited debut LP Timez Are Weird These Days, London worked the crowd with his sing-rapping that he’s becoming well-known for. The last time London appeared in Vancouver at Fortune nightclub, he rapped over backing tracks of famous Vampire Weekend and Ellie Goulding singles. A year later, and plenty of exposure under his belt, London returns to a bigger venue, now backed by a full band — aside from the MacBook filling in for a drumset. Equipped in dark shades and a hand-me-down denim jacket, the lanky MC slyly charmed the Commodore crowd. With a

plethora of gold chains sharply swinging with his every move, London proved that he’s got the swagger and presence to join the likes of Kid Cudi and Kanye West in the big leagues.

Early in his set, London announced that a very special guest, “David”, would be joining him on stage for part of his set. To the surprise of the audience, London went backstage and pulled out a full-sized carboard standout of “Bad” era Michael Jackson, which he positioned behind a microphone for most of his performance.

He then kickstarted his big single “Last Name London”, taking the stage like a race horse out of its stable. Clearly feeding off the applause from his appreciative crowd, London really got up close and personal with the front row, often times bending over and rapping right in someone’s face. But the tactic came off more as highoctane than aggressive, and the fans excitedly cheered him on. With dance moves that only “David” could match, and the ability to lyrically stylize “what happens when you wake up and realize you have 7000 contacts in your phone”, London somehow comes off endearing, combining his 80s New York fashion with a genuine toothy grin that appeared after each track.

Rapping over the Broadway standard “Hey Big

Spender”, London promises the crowd some “brand new shit,” which, even though he likely says every night to every crowd, comes off as a personal gift resulting in massive applause.

The main attraction, UK’s Friendly Fires, had a tough act to follow, but lucky for them, their onstage charisma matched London’s, but in an entirely different way. The band casually walked on stage while some heavenly yellow rays shone out around them, the crowd could hardly handle the anticipation leading up to their opening number.

The band began with “Lovesick”, a track from the band’s latest, sophomore album Pala, and in no time, lead vocalist Ed Macfarlane showed the crowd that he was not to be outdone by London’s impressive dance moves. Macfarlane shook his hips, fist pounded the air, and never stopped, not even on the short breaks between songs. With a saxophone crooning behind him and a trumpet at the ready, Friendly Fires demonstrated that they’re not up for being your average UK indie dance act.

But despite Macfarlane’s wild moves, the most impressive person on stage seemed to be drummer Jack Savidge, performing on a raised platform near the front of the stage, a fitting placement for such a talent. The drummer, who

was hospitalized earlier this year due to exhaustion, played with such speed that it was almost tiring just to watch.

The Mercury Prize-nominated band kept up this vibrant energy for their whole set, which included at least a couple cowbell solos, most notably in the tropical-sounding single “Jump In The Pool”, in which Macfarlane became so antsy he slid off the stage and paraded through the crowd, where a midst of camera flashes and grabby hands got a bit carried away.

The band clearly had a lot of fun on stage, banging out group maraca sessions mid-set and laughing to themselves when they caught a glimpse of each other’s dance moves. With sci-fi stylized green lighting complimenting the spooky smoke machines, the band had a great visual backdrop to work with. Every one of their songs sounds like a well-packaged anthem, both sing-along ready and lending itself to the audience shaking their asses, as much like the MacFarlane as they could. Such was the case with “Chimes”, in which Macfarlane told the crowd, “Let’s start living again,” which came across as a humble suggestion that just happened to be backed with the catchiest beat of the night.

A r ts

WEARING A SECOND SKIN Who needs clothes when you can get painted?

By Claire Vulliamy // Arts editor

A

s long as people have had bodies, they’ve been decorating them. The oldest tattoos ever discovered were found on the preserved body of Ötzi the iceman, made with soot instead of ink. While his lasted 5,300 years, long enough to be discovered by mountain climbers in 1991, some people prefer a slightly less permanent option.

Body painting is, quite simply, the act of painting a human body. Most often, but not always, the paint replaces clothing. Not everyone is fooled, though: in August, model Zoe West was arrested for modeling body paint naked in New York’s Times Square, as recently reported in the Daily Mail.

Nina Corrie is the owner of Tattoos for Now, a company that does temporary tattoos and airbrush art in Vancouver. Corrie decided that she wanted to start a temporary tattoo company after travelling in Europe and noticing the popularity of henna in large, tourist-frequented areas. Corrie returned to Canada and looked in to airbrushing, which wasn’t such a mainstream practice in the first few years of the millennium. There were exceptions: “In the movie industry, it had been used for quite a while, I think about 15 years,” she says.

Their first location was at a kiosk in Metrotown mall, which offered basic airbrush tattoos in designs similar to that of a tattoo shop. The tattoos themselves are sprayed on with a stencil and dry within minutes. On the first day, Corrie explains that “basically the mall doors opened and we had

a line up … we didn’t even have the float in the till.”

From there, Corrie went on to open 11 studio locations before finally paring it down to three. The transition to full body painting was simple enough: “It’s just a larger piece of work,” Corrie says.

Corrie explains that around Halloween, often people will get airbrush tattoos to authenticate their character. “We have a girl coming in who wants to be the girl with the dragon tattoo,” says Corrie, “definitely an easy character, clothingwise, and then she needs her tattoo; I mean, that’s what’s going to make the costume.”

Many of Corrie’s customers are companies who want to use body painting for promotional events. Tattoos for Now’s first foray into body painting was a request from Warner Bros. to have a topless model painted with the RocknRolla movie poster. A later demand from Warner Bros. resulted in another innovation: they wanted a model to be painted to look like she was wearing leather pants. “You can’t do that with airbrushing because it’s flat,” Corrie explains. “We tried talking them out of it first,” but finally Corrie turned to liquid latex paint. “As it dries it becomes like a second skin … then you can embellish, add special effects.” Since then, she has even done a project that included a built-in zipper.

Alecia Repp, a freelance makeup artist, takes body painting one step further. She often works events where she’ll do by-donation painting for those in attendance, as well as live showcases of her work. “I’ll paint the body in front of everyone and everyone watches the transformation,” Repp says. She is especially interested in black light

painting: paint that glows in ultraviolet light. “It changes the whole dynamic of painting because usually you’re in a darker atmosphere and you get to bring out all the features,” she says.

Repp, who studied at Blanche McDonald, and who operates under the name Fearless Makeup, says that in her career the demand is constant: “Every couple days I’m doing some sort of body painting.”

The usual body paints used by Repp are composed mostly of chemicals, but she has considered alternatives. “I want to get into creating my own body paint. I met this girl who makes her own body paint and it’s all natural.” She explains that as the paint contains natural ingredients that are possibly even nutrients, “the body kind of absorbs it.”

Most of the time it is necessary to make the art last; movement, sweat, and contact can quickly undo a piece. While the body paints on the market might not be the very best option, as Repp says, they’re made specifically for skin and aren’t the biggest culprit. “I just don’t use acrylic paint,” she says, as some people will.

In Halloween weekends past, Repp has kept very busy. “I go into the salon and do Halloween makeup all day from nine ‘til ten, like 12 hours a day.” The requests are varied. Repp has done everything from KISS makeup to Medusa. Clients will tell Repp their idea, and she will suggest an approach. Most people are keen to try full-body makeup, Repp says. Face paint starts at $60, whereas full-body goes by an hourly rate of $60 to $80.

One of Repp’s most memorable experiences

// Alexandra Gordeyeva was when she did a photo shoot with the son of a photographer friend. Thirteen-year-old Ethan wanted to be transformed into a clown to scare his older brother. “He grew his hair for like six months or something … and I had free range to cut and colour it any way I wanted.” They shot it in Ethan’s school yard at night, under the light of the full moon. In the photos there are flames that Repp explains are “actually a huge teddy bear that we lit on fire.” The result is truly terrifying: “He scared the hell out of his brother, it was so funny,” she says.

Although Halloween seems like the most appropriate time for getting body painted, it actually goes far beyond just a weekend in October.

Cosplay and the Zombie Walk are two other reasons why people get professionally painted, but some people don’t need an excuse at all. Repp considers body painting to be very liberating, remarking, “It is good to do once a year, but it’s also fun to do all the time.”

Dancing in a Perfect Cube 10 choreographers come together with 10 composers for 10 minutes on Vancouver stage

By Amita Gore // Writer

V

// Sarah Taylor score. Barton went into this piece in a unique way, not necessarily using John Korsrud’s music to guide her choreography, but allowing their work to simply slide together. The result was rapid movement when the music was calm, and vice-versa.

The routine into, your hands my spirit utilized the screen at the theatre to play a rapid slide-show of banking buildings in Vancouver to compliment composer Jeffery Ryan and choreographer Byron Chief-Moon’s seductive piece based on the stock market. The song used, “Triple Witching Days”, was written in 1997, and is about composer Jeffery Ryan’s brief brush with the world of economics. Interestingly, dancer Luglio Romero worked at Vancouver Stock Exchange for many years, adding a new depth

to the piece. In the performance, the dancers ripped their suits to near shreds.

The dances, each ten minutes long, brought every possible discipline to the stage. Choreographer Joe Laughlin’s Clearing incorporated Waacking, a style of dance that involves rapid and dramatic movement of the arms, and originated with drag performances in nightclubs.

Sujit Vaidya, the dancer in choreographer Alvin Erasga Tolentino and composer Francios Houle’s routine Cross Border, is trained in traditional Bharatanatyam, the national dance of India.

Some pieces did not rely solely on dance: Lee Su-Feh created a personal piece about spirituality and immigration entitled Finding the Way from Everything to Nothing. It was more of a prop-based performance piece, using matchsticks, incense, and slips of paper, which audience members were permitted to take home with them.

10x10x10 was an excellent showcase of the fusion of music and dance. With such an eclectic variety of backgrounds, themes and styles, this unique performance made for a truly unforgettable night at the Scotiabank Theatre. Carter is enthusiastic about the future of the project, answering with a resounding “yes” when asked if 10x10x10 could become an annual occurrence.

Such an experience is incredibly beneficial both to the participating artists, who are given an opportunity to create new networks and friendships, and to the audience, who are given the opportunity to witness what such connections can create.

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ancouver’s 125th birthday has been the perfect excuse for the city to bust out some culture, which means, for the most part, more murals. However, some events sponsored by Vancouver 125 have offered a new kind of learning experience by showcasing work that isn’t part of popular discussion. Who, for instance, can name a local composer off the top of their head?

With the performance of 10x10x10, a collaboration of original music and movement by some of BC’s own, Bob Barker, the Director for the Canadian Music Centre, wanted “to bring visibility to the incredible array of composers at the CMC,” according to Martha Carter, the Artistic Director for the event. Carter took on the task of pairing choreographers with associate composers of the CMC, tasking them with the unique opportunity to create something together that was distinctly “Vancouver”.

10x10x10 was developed by Martha Carter, a well-travelled choreographer, along with Barker, who came up with the idea of bringing together composers and choreographers to represent the sights and sounds of Vancouver. “[I have] often created works that employ live music and composer collaborations,” Carter says. Each participant was chosen from the Dance Centre and the CMC’s extensive repertoire of artists, carefully selected based on “a mix of intuition and knowledge of their past work.” Carter explains

they chose the Vancouver theme because “it provided a unifying theme and point of dialogue for all the artists,” which was also an excellent reference for the audience.

Each dance was introduced by a charmingly candid video featuring the choreographer and composer. It was revealed that most composers had no experience with dance and most choreographers had not been exposed to their partner’s music previous to creating their routine. Four of the ten pairs brought live musicians on stage with them. Choreographer Noam Gagnon and composer Ed Henderson collaborated on the music for alight, and Henderson joined dancer Robert Leveroos onstage with only a guitar, no sheet music. Other acts brought more classical instruments onstage with them, including a piano and upright bass.

In representing Vancouver, two performances in particular chose to focus on water. In Darkened

by Clouds by composer Jacqueline Leggatt and choreographer Delia Brett, rain jackets were used to mimic the sound of rain falling as three dancers rolled, twisted, and tumbled their way across the stage. Four towers of incandescent lighting confined the dancers, suggesting lightning and the constant movement of clouds, and, at the end of the piece, the blaring sun that pushed the clouds away. As the weather changed, the dancers stripped down to bikinis. Amber Funk Barton’s contemporary piece Liquid used many forms to movement to represent the flow of water, from waves to whirlpools, showers to streams, all flowing together with John Korsrud’s

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Arts

A CITY WITH TWO FACES Vancouver's neon sees a second chance in MOV's new exhibit

By JJ Brewis // Art director

S

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ave-On Meats, the Hastings St. butcher shop, shines brightly in the early October night. This neon sign of a pink pig holding a coin is just one of a few last remaining pieces of what used to be a long string of businesses lighting up Vancouver's streets. Neon, now considered more of a novelty than anything, is actually a lot more controversial than some might think.

This month, the Museum of Vancouver kicks off its exhibit Neon Vancouver | Ugly Vancouver.

The title may seem confusing or bold to some visitors, but as Amanda McQuaig, a member of the museum's creative team, explains, it's "meant to bring to mind the conflict in the 60s and 70s about whether the neon signs in Vancouver were a sign of a vibrant urban space or a tawdry display of advertising that was marring the natural beauty of Vancouver." The struggle between the signs being seen as a burden or a blessing is chronicled well in the new exhibit, which pairs up original neon signs in conjunction with some newer media materials.

The majority of the collection on display came to the museum in 1977, collected from a sign manufacturer's junkyard. Signs once aglow sat dormant in the museum's storage until their first showcase in 1999. Now in an expanded and updated exhibit, these original signs and some new additions are given the full treatment. The Museum's creative team weaves the neon relics into an enticing narrative, with visual aids telling the struggle of Vancouver as a bustling city filled

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with two very distinct sides in regard to the growing neon landscape of the city. Many thought the signs tarnished Vancouver's natural beauty, but the opposition saw the neon display as a glamorous taste of big city life.

A battle ensued, eventually limiting the core's allotment of neon, squashing future additions, and leaving very few pieces today. The Museum does a great job chronicling the heavy debate, asking the viewer to step back in time and think about which mindset they'd fall into.

Alongside the original signs that once filled Vancouver's downtown corridor are a series of images by late local photographer Walter Griba.

"He photographed picket signs, store signs, neon signs," McQuaig explains. "He’d go out on his lunch break and lean out of buildings or climb

the neon heyday, and educational for the younger crowd. Neon also offers information beyond Vancouver’s heritage: part of the exhibit explores technical and scientific aspects of the topic, including the breakdown of the neon molecule.

Even with the signs placed among demure walls, it's apparent how such a topic could have taken a city by storm and torn it in half with debate. "It’s the first time this story has been told in retrospect," McQuaig explains. "It is a great opportunity to look back on Vancouver starting at a time when it didn’t really care about being a world city, and then moving into a time when it began to be self-conscious – looking at ways to be more beautiful, more considerate of the landscape."

Despite Vancouver's eventual decision to turn // Shannon Elliott away from its neon roots, it is delightful that so poles to take photos of signs." Rather than the much of the history has been preserved, and typical nostalgic, glamorized shots of Vancou- that the MOV has managed to effectively tell this ver’s neon, Griba's work shows a more exact compelling journey to a new batch of Vancouver version of the streets– bustling, overflowing, and residents who may have been unaware of their cluttered. "When you’re telling a story that in part city's past. A neon renaissance may one day beinvolves many opinions about the signs being fall us, but for now, landmarks such as the Saveugly, you want photographs that will go well with On-Meats pig or the Orpheum Theatre’s signage that," McQuaig says. Neon is the first time Griba generate a buzz of their own. "With less neon has had these photos shown in a live setting. signs on the streets,” says McQuaig, “it's easier The signs themselves, buzzing loudly in an for us to be nostalgic about a time when there otherwise silent setting, are truly the star of the were those lights." show here. The small gallery hosts 22 neon signs in addition to the permanent galleries' existing Neon Vancouver | Ugly Vancouver runs until Aug. eight. The intimate setting gives viewers a chance 12, 2012 at the Museum of Vancouver, located at to take an up-close and personal look at signs that 1100 Chestnut Street (Vanier Park). On Nov. 3, once hung several dozen feet overhead. The show 7:00 PM there is a “Curator’s Talk and Tour” of the is both sentimental for those who lived through exhibit.

co l u m n s

ED I TO R S / / Samant ha Thompson + Sarah Vit et // e di to r@ c api l ano c o uri e r. c o m

Popcourt

The Public Jury

With JJ Brewis // Columnist

W

of the Jackson children hit the internet in a frenzy, juxtaposing the story of the previous day’s court session, where Murray gave a play-by-play testimony in which he had to outline the events of Jun. 22, 2009.

The two stories tie together quite interestingly when you realize just how much power and sway resides in the hands of the media. Not only is Murray being accused of murder, the public now subconsciously sees him as having orphaned Jackson’s three children. Jackson is also pegged as the victim in the trial, with daily news stories focusing on his struggle for mental and physical health, with Murray, as his caretaker, made to look as though he has failed at his job. The day before the tribute concert, Murray was questioned about his involvement with Propofol, the milky anaesthetic that allegedly led to Jackson’s death. Jackson seemingly begged Murray for “my milk,” according to news articles, giving Jackson the upper card as a suffering victim. Yet given his

knowledge of the substance, Jackson knew what he was dealing with. Michael Jackson was an intelligent person, and yes, he may have been quite unstable at the time of his death, but placing the blame on Murray seems like a stretch.

Conrad Murray is up for a huge battle in his case; as a medical professional who is being accused of accidentally killing one of the most famous celebrities of all time, he has a lot at risk.

If he is found guilty in court, Murray could face the loss of his medical license, as well as a prison term of up to four years. But even if he’s found innocent, Murray may never be viewed as a reputable professional ever again. For someone who was able to be employed as a personal physician for such a wealthy and famous individual, Murray clearly had done something right in his career path. But after such tragic circumstances, he is going to be worse off no matter what the results of this trial are.

Simpson never bounced back in the public

// Author illustration eye after his trial, even almost two decades after it has ended. Though Simpson was found guilty in a later civil trial, the fact that he was found “innocent” in the criminal trial remains.

But in cases such as this, the damage done by exposure throughout a court case is irreparable.

When your face is posted on the cover of Time magazine with the words “Trail of Blood” overtop your police mug shot, chances aren’t very good that you are ever going to walk away “free”, regardless of what a jury decides. Murray’s future is hazy, and eerily like the path of his deceased patient Jackson. Once a man on top of his game, he is now facing a public lashing that is more dependent on the media’s portrayal than the actual actions he chose himself.

JJ Brewis is quite possibly the keenest member of our editorial staff. He has been writing columns on various topics for the Courier for three years examine the flaws in our society.

the capilano courier | vol. 45 issue 7

hen Michael Jackson passed away on Jun. 25, 2009, the world put everything on hold to contemplate what exactly this event meant to them. The news literally caused Twitter and Wikipedia to shut down, with over-eager internet users wanting to share the news and find out what had happened – the details of which were not available until very recently. Jackson’s death was similar to many of his famous colleagues: not much was known about the specifications or events leading up to Jackson’s last moments; most news was hearsay and general rumour-mill buzz. For nearly two years, the cause of death of a very public man was kept secret from his fans and peers.

Last month, however, Conrad Robert Murray, Jackson’s MD at the time of his death, began a public court trial that is still ongoing at press time.

Murray is being questioned as the one responsible for Jackson’s death, given that he was in care of Jackson’s medical needs at the time of passing.

The trial is being broadcasted live as well as dissected in every major news outlet, both reputable and tabloid-based.

Jackson’s death has suddenly become much like his entire life from when he began his career at age six: a completely public entity in which all the details are aired out for the public to access.

Court trials happen every day, but only a handful gain public interest. Had Jackson been a noncelebrity, this court case likely wouldn’t exist, and Murray would probably get off scot-free. Given the media attention around this case, Murray faces not only the court charges, but the inevitable fact that his life is going to be different after all of this press, and probably not for the better.

The People of the State of California vs.

Conrad Murray is debatably the most famous international court case since that of OJ Simpson’s alleged murder trial of his ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson and her friend Ron Goldman in 1994.

The trial lasted over eight months, and consumed the public’s attention throughout its endurance.

The interesting part about Simpson’s trial was how it overshadowed everyday news events, even when the trial itself was not creating “new news”. In America, regular people are murdered more often than press has room for, and new court trials begin every day across the country, but Simpson’s background as an NFL football star and film actor made his case worth of the public interest. Although Simpson was found innocent in his trial, his public persona remains changed to this day. Whether he was involved in the murders or not is no longer important; what remains is that Simpson’s trial was placed on television for the public to watch and this turned him into a monster in the eyes of millions.

Simpson and Murray are both in a similar firing range, not just because of the crimes they are put on trial for, but also as the result of the exposure gained in a telecasted case. The media is able to sway the opinion of the general public with the words they print on a page and the statements they publicize during the tenure of a trial.

An example of this happened recently, in what appeared to be uncannily good timing. Members of Jackson’s family organized a tribute concert for Michael, held in Cardiff, Wales on Oct. 8. Among all of the musical tributes was a special appearance by Jackson’s three children, all dressed in their father’s famous stage costumes. The images

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Columns People watching

Get your hands off my bagel!

With Heather Welsh // Columnist

// Tiare Jung

“S

the capilano courier | vol. 45 issue 7

ave me a table, will you?” is a common cry that can be heard coming from the dining room during the designated breakfast hours at the hostel. “What do you mean ‘the breakfast ends at 9.30am’? How am I meant to sleep in?” is always quick to follow. The small time frame in which guests can enjoy the free buffet breakfast results in lots of people crammed into a small space during a short period of time, and this naturally leads to

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some interesting people watching.

I mean it’s basically free food we’re talking about here! When there’s only one bagel left, the kitchen becomes a war zone. With their eyes on the prize, the troops get into formation and prepare their knives and forks, shielding their eyes with a plate as to throw the other side offguard. Quick decisions lead to a successful outcome, and for the other side, it’s some dry raisin toast instead.

As with most social interaction in public spaces, people head towards the corners and single spaces first. Similar behaviour occurs on the bus: the empty spaces fill up first, followed by the seats next to the most friendly and least offensive-looking members of the public, then slowly everything is full and the stragglers at the back of the line-up are left hanging on for dear life. In the breakfast room, the spaces fill up, and eventually, people have to share a tiny table and start trying to make conversation with each other … sometimes with disastrous results.

However, if you can read into the signs that suggest what your tablemate might be like, you can avoid the awkward silences and ultimately enjoy your breakfast.

The study of environmental psychology is widespread. Psychologists believe there are a great number of things that can affect a person’s behaviour, and included in this is the study of people in social settings. Environmental psychologist Roger Barker observed social behavior and theorized that social settings influence behavior. Data gathered in Oskaloosa from 1947 to 1972 helped him develop the concept of the “behavior setting”, which helps explain the relationship between the individual and the immediate environment.

Looking at the social setting in the breakfast room, people change their conversation patterns based on their environment. “So what are you doing today?” is the most popular opening line, which is a good start because the most obvious common ground travelers have is the fact that they are both exploring the city for the first time.

“Did you have a good night?” is another good one, especially for those that made it up blearyeyed for breakfast after the pub crawl the night before. Although the conversation may begin as awkward, this situation is arguably better than are the guests who don’t bother trying to make conversation at all.

“Mr. Organized” is on too tight a schedule to bother with small talk. This is a guest I see arriving at least 15 minutes before food starts coming out, who saves a space at the table with a jacket, a book, or the like, and then lingers in the breakfast area, plate and knife ready to pounce on an

unsuspecting cranberry muffin.

This is a military operation! No time for manners!

“Do you have any bigger bowls?” one guest came to ask me one morning. “Because I can’t fit all the food in this one,” she shouted as bananas, rolls, and tea bags went flying across the lobby in her failed attempt to carry too much food in her arms at once. Nicknamed the “Group Provider”, they take it upon themselves to gather enough food in one morning to feed a family of four for three months, because there is nothing like planning ahead. They will be first up, collecting way too much food for their party (the rest of whom are still fighting hangovers from the comfort of their rooms). When their friends finally emerge, the Group Provider becomes the hero, supplying stale bread saved lovingly in a Ziploc. Sadly, their efforts are not always appreciated. “I think we’re just gonna go grab an eggs benny, I heard of this really good diner around the corner,” says one of their friends. Imagine the look on their face when their efforts go unnoticed. It’s a sad sight, but, thankfully, not always the case.

Some days the dining room is full of glowing laptops, and on one morning in particular it was like Christmas had come early with the amount of back-lit keyboards laid out in there. The antisocial diner takes it upon themselves to use headphones and a laptop at all times during breakfast (and whilst in any common area of the hostel for that matter), safely guarding their personal space.

There is no way they are going to engage in conversation with Chatty Patty at this time in the morning. Understandably, as I’ve been there and had to grin and bear it when she chats my face off at 7 AM. As far as these guests are concerned, this is a purely functional time of the day that can be totally devoid of social interaction. They eat the free food, and then either go back to bed or get the hell out of the hostel for the day.

Personal space was a term coined by psychologist John B. Calhoun. He states that in creating a “defensible space” in a public setting (as guests do with a laptop or by wearing headphones), the negative effects of crowding in urban environments can be reduced. Creating barriers and customizing a space are ways of creating personal space, putting pictures of your family on the wall in an office setting is a way of doing this for example. Calhoun stated this increases cognitive control, you see yourself having control over the competitors to the personal space and thus control the level of density and crowding in the space. This is what guests do with a carefully placed book, magazine, or item of clothing at the breakfast table.

Breakfast etiquette might be something you have to learn, though sharing a butter knife, reaching for your toast, or passing the sugar to people you don’t know in an enclosed space is actually quite a weird situation to be in. Similar to being pushed up against people on the bus or Skytrain during rush hour, people learn to deal with the awkward situations in a number of ways. And when you’re not the one grappling for the free muffins, it makes for rather interesting morning entertainment.

Heather Welsh is from a quaint little town in England surrounded by fields and sheep. She drinks tea and eats Marmite on her crumpets and once got invited to party with Prince Harry.

Her column is a documentation of her experiences working at a Vancouver youth hostel.

Opi n i o n s

Edi tor // Marco Ferreira // o pi ni o ns @ c api l ano c o uri e r. c o m

STOP BEING SUCH A LEFT-WING NUTBAR CBC and Quebecor media duke it out in a battle of wits

By Samantha Thompson // Editor-in-chief

C

Hedges a “left-wing nut-bar” when he was speaking about the Occupy Wall Street movements.

The interview was aired seemingly with very little editing, and it wasn’t until hundreds of letters were sent to CBC News and CBC’s Ombudsman office that any editorial concerns about its content were raised.

CBC’s Ombudsman Kirk LaPointe released a statement on Oct. 14 stating that he felt O’Leary’s remarks had “violated CBC Journalistic Standards and Practices policy.” While the program did issue a private apology to Hedges, LaPointe said he felt that “it would have better fulfilled the spirit of its policy communicating its acknowledgement of error to the audience.” He added, “There is room at the inn for a range of views, but there is no room for name-calling a guest.”

The executive producer of the program, Robert Lack, told LaPointe that the show expected O’Leary to be “colourful, outspoken, and controversial,” though he added that it was still an inappropriate way to refer to a guest on the program.

O’Leary’s comments came within days of Don Cherry also using controversial language when speaking about specific NHL hockey players.

Unfortunately, the decisions to apologize for these events are occurring reactively – apologies were not made until it appeared as though they had offended too many people. As strong as the CBC is, at present they are having an identity crisis.

And who can blame them? According to a document by advocacy group Friends of Canadian Broadcasting, funding for the CBC

was at $1,197.5 billion at the end of Prime Minister Paul Martin’s election, and has decreased to $1,187.9 billion throughout Stephen Harper’s time as Prime Minister. Stephen Harper has wasted no time in making his favourites for national media known, and has suggested that there is no room for anyone else.

The Conservative government has been threatening to cut CBC’s funding, going so far as to include questions about the benefits of the CBC in their “2011 National Critical Issues Survey” (sent out to fellow Conservatives). Sun Media, CBC’s media opponent and loudest critic, hosted a similar survey. An article in the Toronto Sun reported that “53 per cent of Canadians want public funding entirely cut to the state broadcaster – no matter the amount – and have it try to survive as a not-for-profit broadcaster backed by advertising and viewer donations, while 39 per cent would like it sold off entirely.” With such surveys being sent around, the CBC is left fighting for survival.

Sun Media is missing something very key: it is critical that we have a Crown corporation media source that is operated at an arm’s length from the federal government. Having this federal funding allows a media source such as the CBC to focus on going more in-depth in stories, providing accurate reporting without having to worry what their advertisers are going to think.

Having what should be guaranteed funding provides stability to a broadcaster, which in turn results in better reporting and a better news source that is more concerned in being accountable

// Lydia Fu and loyal to the country’s citizens instead of the country’s corporations.

Although federally funded, it is no secret that CBC is, generally, a left-leaning broadcaster.

Every media source has a slant, and the CBC just happens to be a lefty. Conversely, Quebecor is very right-leaning and continues to demonstrate this with their frequent attacks on CBC. Quebecor and CBC are in a constant battle, because they are competing for the same airwaves – particularly in provinces like Quebec. Perhaps this is the reason for CBC’s latest airing of O’Leary’s escapades, and similar conservative programming – it is simply an attempt to appear as though they are capable of fostering a plethora of viewpoints.

However, it is not the lack of viewpoints that is the problem. Intelligent people are brought onto the shows and interviewed for their expertise, only to be ridiculed by the broadcaster who is clearly unknowledgeable about the interviewee’s area of expertise. It is this blatant disrespect shown for any viewpoint that is not shared by the broadcaster on both Sun Media and CBC that is creating a rift and minimizing the support that either of the companies will receive from the public.

While they fight it out, Quebecor will continue to gain influence and funding because they share the same political views as the political party in majority, the CBC will continue to fight to be Canada’s public broadcaster, and the Canadian public will become less informed and more unintelligent. Here’s to the future death bed of Canadian media.

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anadian news is suffering. Balanced news is a fantasized goal that many programs dream of seeking but wouldn’t know what it was even if it strode into their production studio.

As CBC celebrates its 75th anniversary this year, reflection on three-quarters of a century isn’t easy. CBC created Hockey Night in Canada, sought out important stories with the likes of Peter Mansbridge, bite-sized Canada and politics with Rick Mercer, and “the nation’s boyfriend” with George Stroumboulopoulos. In addition to these landmark shows, CBC was also responsible for introducing FM radio to Canada, shooting the first in-colour TV show (The Forest Rangers) and was the first broadcaster in the world to use an orbiting satellite to provide TV service. Yet despite this history of firsts, CBC’s balanced coverage of issues is not as strong as it used to be. The CBC is a vital voice in Canada, but, unfortunately, it is easy to lose sight of your goals when a significant portion of your funding is being threatened on a constant basis by the federal government.

Although the Prime Minister and his Heritage Minister regularly pledge that funding to the CBC will continue, they have added that the federal budget must remain balanced. Simultaneously, Quebecor, the parent company of media gems like Sun Television, Sun Media (producer of the ever-reliable 24Hours and Metro News) has been drawing as much negative attention to the CBC as possible, epitomized in a series they feature called “CBC Money Drain”. And while the finances get sorted out, Canada is further from having a balanced voice nationally than they ever were before.

Broadcasts such as the new Sun Television/ Sun Media have turned reports on the happenings of the world into a joke. “Debates” have taken over the televised news: two people sitting at completely opposite ends of the issue will be placed in front of a camera and told to bare their fists, leaving us with the feeling that this is now the only way media knows how to provide “balanced coverage.” An attempt to use debates as a means of providing balance is both insulting and demeaning to the interviewees, as well as the viewers. Watching people as individuals being attacked makes viewers uncomfortable, yet their eyes remain glued to the screen – perhaps the reason that channels like Fox News, with its largely opinion-based reporting, consistently has more than double the amount of viewers as more research-based channels such as CNN. The CBC, unfortunately, has these “balanced” shows airing on their channel as well. Kevin O’Leary, a relatively new broadcaster (previously he was famous as a vicious Dragon on Dragon’s Den), co-stars in a show during which he spends a majority of his time tearing others apart – including the opinions of his co-anchor, Amanda Lang. O’Leary has been criticized for his controversial comments in the past, and his latest exploit was no exception.

The video, which originally aired on CBC’s The Lang & O’Leary Exchange, received more than 75,000 views on YouTube in less than a week. In the video, Chris Hedges, award-winning journalist, “schools” O’Leary after the TV host called

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opinions

WHAT, ME RACIST? Disney's dark past an important platform for young minds

By JJ Brewis // Art Director

“I

won't watch Aladdin, that movie's racist!"

The words spouted out from an acquaintance riding next to me on a long drive home. Initially, the sentimentalist in me was riled up. I was ready to tell her off, insisting of the great values of friendship, loyalty, and social justice in such a film, but I bit my tongue and rode home.

It is true, many Walt Disney movies are indeed racist; but that should not disqualify them as a resource for both entertainment and historical purposes. Many state that the films, whose target audience is undeniably children, are inappropriate for their intended market, with film critic Roger Ebert stating in his book Questions for the Movie Answer Man , “While the original film should be preserved for historical purposes, there is no need for the general release version to perpetrate racist stereotypes in a film designed primarily for children."

It is true that racial stereotypes should never have happened in the first place, but all we can do is change what material is being made today.

As someone who grew up with a wide range of media, I believe that Disney movies really shaped my imagination and interest in the arts. I am also someone without racist tendencies, which would argue against the blanket statement that Disney

films create racist seeds in children. I watched these films with my parents, and they were able to provide me with a context and assemblage of the components. Parents just need to be a bit more active with their children. Simply sitting them down in front of the television and abandoning them isn't quality parenting, and that's the bigger issue here. Perhaps if mom or dad were able to watch the film with their children and explain to them, "Look, that Latino chihuahua from Oliver and Co. is an exaggeration, and not every Latino person would be keen to steal a car," they’d be less worried about what they were learning from these films.

Disney Company has done their own part to censor what they believe to be too much in terms of racist characterizations. A scene from 1940's Fantasia was removed from the film for a 1960 theatrical re-release and never added back in, even on home video releases. The scene mentioned is from the Pastoral Symphony section, in which a short, frumpy-looking stereotyped black centaur is cleaning the hooves of a magnificentlooking white counterpart.

Disney has also tried to make the public forget about an entire motion picture, 1946's Song of the South, which uses both live-action and animated segments. The film was recognized by the Academy Awards, but uses a strong narrative that implies positivity towards slavery and black

racial stereotypes. Disney Company has made statements as recently as 2010, when Creative Director Dave Bossert announced, “We know we want people to see Song of the South because we realize it's a big piece of company history, and we want to do it the right way.” Despite this statement, the company has not made the footage available or made any concrete announcements to do so.

Preserving history and creating a proper context that children can learn within is a win-win situation. Covering up a brutal past and pretending it never happened is not going to be beneficial for any of us. Take Disney's Dumbo for example.

The film, released in 1941, features a scene in which black men are hard at work setting up the circus overnight, singing, “We work all day, we work all night, we never learned to read or write”.

In 2011, this seems offensive, but the fact is that in the early 40s, equality was far away for African Americans.

Conversely, in 2009, Disney released their 49th full-length animated film The Princess and the Frog, whose entire cast, as well as lead heroine, Tiana, is black. This is, of course, following the inclusion of other minorities represented in past films, including Native Americans (1995's Pocahontas) and Chinese (1998's Mulan). Disney is at least improving their representations: the native peoples in Pocahontas are a lot more socially

Illustration of mickey mouse in blackface coming soon!

// Shannon Elliott acceptable than their counterparts in 1953's Peter Pan. All in all, the arc of Disney films presents a history that very much mimics the American timeline well. The movies, like the country and society they come from, match up well with society's acceptances through the years: a Black princess would not have been an option when Walt Disney began making films in the late 1930s.

The films would have bombed at the box office, leaving no chance for future decades to make up for the injustices in previous works. In learning from mistakes, the company has a great frame of work to remember what is and isn't acceptable for the future.

So, yes, Disney has successfully worked on its racist tendencies. And I will keep this in mind next time I'm in the back seat of a car on a long ride home. "Well, I won't watch The Little Mermaid either," she quipped. "It's sexist."

INTEGRATION! HAIL SATAN! Media portrayal of demons could lead to the end of civilization “Uninformed people assume all demons are evil because we don’t agree with some religions // Writer and love the taste of human meat. This prejuver since the Hellmouth was opened be- dice is making integration almost impossible,” low Capilano University and a handful of explains the Leechmonger, media scrutinizer demons have made their journey back to for the Hell's Union Group (HUG). “In other citthe land of the living, the local media has nega- ies like LA or Bangkok, when portals have been tively portrayed hell-spawn, painting the entire unintentionally opened, the story is always the group with one bloody brush. same: people react with great interest. As soon as

By Michael Bastien

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// Stefan Tosheff

the media picks up the story, it's downhill from there. One young human gets skinned and has their organs ceremonially rearranged to summon a primeval dragon, a wonder for all, and the next thing you'll see is a front page spread demanding all demons be banished to the depths.”

“Outside of the sex industry Demon employment is at an all-time low,” explains Rubicante, high ranking member of HUG and executive manager at American Eagle. “Us demons are just trying to make a living for ourselves. … People just don't understand our customs.” With the opening of a new hellmouth, demons are forced to integrate or be hunted down by a handful of demon slayers wearing trench-coats.

“Demons can contribute a lot to the world,” Rubicante insists. “Tall and winged demons can help customers reach products on the top shelf, and also clean those hard-to-reach areas. All demons learn arcane magic at a young age. Modern medicine will be revolutionized once we incorporate necromancy!”

However, many employers are still reluctant to hire demons. One employer of a popular fastfood chain who asked that we hide his identity had this to say: “It's their physical appearance: they're intimidating, [and] many aren’t fluent in English. This is Canada! And they all have that smell about them, the hell-stink or whatever, it's disgusting.”

There are few avenues of employment where demons are in demand and all most all of them are sex-related; for example, demon pornography is growing in popularity. Some of the most popular titles include 2 Succubi, 1 Goblet and Overlord Baal Balls Bitches. Because of the stigma, and resulting stigmata, sex with demons is mostly confined to gang-run prostitution rings. In

cities with more established hellmouths, tentacle orgies have been popping up in warehouses and community centres during after-hours. In a recent bust in Los Angeles, some attendees reportedly paid up to $5,000 for one hour at the mercy of a gelatinous milli-tentacled Glabrezu. “It was totally worth it, I never came so hard in my life,” said Fox Mulder as he was escorted away from the scene by police.

Due to the increase of inter-deity sex, and as a result of confusion over demons reproductive systems, there has been a recent boom in halfdemon births. Torn between ethereal planes, parents are unsure how to raise their children. Rubicante explains, “Many half-demons are shunned by their parent’s family. It’s unfortunate, because half-demons have the strength, agility, and magical talents of a demon, but they keep the physical appearance of a human. It’s pretty bad-ass.”

In a recent press release, HUG explains that media portrayal of half-demons contributes strongly to their outcast position in society, using the example of half-demons Dante, Inuyasha, and Hellboy who “are all portrayed as demon hunters, maintaining the stigma that pure demons are still evil.”

Across the country, demons are petitioning to have the government acknowledge their right to exist on earth. As a result of the media portrayal of demons, prejudice forces most demons to return from whence they came or work in the underground sex trade. Leechmonger finished his interview with the Courier with this to say: “If the media continues its bias toward my brothers and sisters, we will rise up and eat every last one of you. Your congealed blood will pave the streets of a new dawn, and all will be engulfed in fire and plague.”

Caboose F e at u r e d F i c t i o n

GUMMY BEAR GRAVEYARD

Sleeping with Samantha Thompson

Just a Bunch of Animals

By Samantha Thompson // Editor-in-chief

“D

Edi tor // KEvin Murray // c abo o s e . c apc o uri e r@ gmai l . c o m

ude, your toque has a spelling mistake on it,” a guy laughed as he walked by. “It says, ‘Smile if Y-O-U-R horny’! Don’t you work for a newspaper? How embar-

rassing!”

Worked, I thought angrily. Past tense. My future in journalism would probably be over as soon as I got up to the office. I still couldn’t believe I’d missed such an important story – at this point, a spelling mistake on my toque was the least of my worries.

I walked slowly up the hill and opened the door to the office. One of the editors was inside, but I awkwardly couldn’t remember her name.

I knew it reminded me of some sort of animal, but the mental connections ended there. She barely looked up as I walked in and sat down.

“Hey, how’s it going?” I said, talking too quickly. “You wouldn’t believe the day I’ve had! I missed the most important story, and almost got run over, and they made my coffee wrong, and …”

“I DON’T CARE ABOUT YOUR LIFE YOU STUPID BITCH!” I took a step back, startled. Who talks to another human being like that? My retort was interrupted by her cell phone ringing.

It lit up, brassily trilling My Heart Will Go On. “I have to take this!” she practically shouted, grabbing her phone and slamming the door behind her. Well fine, I thought. Leave me in my moment of need.

I watched her through the window. She was pacing back and forth, talking solemnly into her phone. With my superior lip-reading skills, I could tell it was something serious. She saw me watching, though, and gave me a death-stare. Then she pulled a furry mass of fabric out of her back pocket, and as she shook it out it took the form of some sort of animal. The fur was a little matted, but the wrinkly face and defined features left no room for doubt: it was a monkey mask.

She pulled it on over her face, and where a girl once stood was now a monkey with the body of a woman. With the monkey mask on, I was no longer able to lip-read what she was saying. Great, now on top of everything else, I had to cope with loneliness.

The monkey-girl hung up her phone, and I quickly moved away from the window. The monkey walked into the office, and even without seeing her real face I could tell something horrible had happened.

“My hamster died,” she said.

Oh, fuck. What was I supposed to say to that?

“Um, I’m really sorry to hear that?” I replied, wincing at the cliché and my own up-talking.

“Damn right you are.”

She stood up and wiped away the beginnings of tears; punched a hole in the wall. Grabbing her monkey mask, she pulled it over her face once again, shoved through the door, and ran down the hill. Away from the office, away from the school, away from me.

// JJ Brewis

By Natahsha Prakash // Epicurean

Stuff You Need: 1 package Oreo cookies, crushed 4 cups cold milk 2 packages chocolate instant pudding mix 8 ounces Cool Whip topping, thawed A bag of gummy bears (and/or spiders, worms, spooky candy) Tub of white icing Red food colouring Plastic zip-lock bag Large rectangular baking dish Hersey's chocolate bar Stuff You Gotta Do: 1. Put cookies into a sealable bag and seal it tightly.

2. Using a rolling pin, or anything that makes you feel badass, SMASH DEM COOKIES. 3. Pour the milk and chocolate instant pudding mix into a large bowl and follow directions on box.

4. Add the Cool Whip and 1/2 of the crushed cookies to the pudding blend.

5. Stir until blended.

6. Place a thin layer of crushed cookies on the bottom of the baking dish.

7. Add the pudding mixture until the pan is 3/4 full.

8. Dig little graves with your spoon and pop in your gummy dudes.

9. Spoon the rest of the crushed cookies bit on top.

10. Break off some chocolate squares for tomb stones and say the eulogy.

11. If you’ve got some creepy things, decorate! Blend the white icing in a bowl with 6 drops of red icing until well mixed.

12. Spoon into your zip-lock bag, then squeeze it into the corner like a piping bag. Cut off a small corner and make blood.

13. Chill in the fridge for 2 hours and you have delicious spookiness.

Ombud’s Comics

// Kevin Murray, via comic generator

the capilano courier | vol. 45 issue 7

// Thomas Ward

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Caboose

n u g t o ! s Sh w e i Rev

Bad HAlloween costumes

Mr./Miss Jersey Shore Costumes // Natahsha Prakash

Mr. Giant Penis Man Costume // Colin Spensley

Mr. Blackface Gurpreet Kambo

Mr. Drag Kevin Murray

What happened to scary, funny, or cute costumes? Halloween costumes have entered into a new realm: nasty. Yes, that's right: now you can dress just like the stars of the hit TV show Jersey Shore. Feel like a real superstar and rock those faux-hawks and cheese-coloured tans! Feel fabulous, famous, and ridiculous, and maybe you’ll earn $50,000 for a single appearance at an event! This new phenomena gives tanning salons, Bump-Its, and hair gel companies massive surpluses. Bring out your inner DJ with Pauly D, introduce your friends to the oh-so-classy Snooki, and don’t forget show off your gym physique with buff buddy Mike “the Situation”. Forever will you be remembered as “that kid who wore a Jersey Shore costume.” Goodbye dignity or postgrad job, and see ya later to any luck of finding that special someone. Now pull yourself together and think of a sensible costume and think about the kids. Don’t let your little cousin see you like this. Do you want to make a four-year-old cry?

DO YOU?

Hi, you may have seen me around your local Halloween party. I have many names: Dick, Ol’ Cock and Balls, Johnson, Wang … but under this hilariously oversized penis I am a man. If you want, you can call me Brandon. Now I know what you’re thinking: I’m a huge dick. And of course you’re right. But it does take a lot of “balls” to wear this costume. Every Halloween, when I put on this costume, I think of that great quote from Spiderman: “With great power comes great responsibility,” and I always try to apply that to my penis (costume). I wear this gigantic dick, not just for the onslaught of laughter, but also to educate. Just doing my part to inform the masses.

Oh, and, if you see any giant vagina costumes out there, please send them my way; it’s pretty cold and lonely out here on the dance floor. No one seems to want to touch my penis … costume.

You are great. Really. I mean that in a “this is the kind of thoughtless buffoon I will teach my children not to be” kind of way. And how do you do it? It’s such a convincing and realistic act, you know. Perhaps as part of your blackface costume, you should also accept lower wages, a history of oppression and poverty, and/or being denied the vote. Strangely, when you take off your blackface makeup, those who your costume imitates will still be black. I hope that your costume is onpurpose, like a conscious parody, but either way I must thank you. How best to demonstrate than with a living, breathing example of how rampant breeding brings about the intellectual impoverishment of the human race? Please don’t have children. The human race begs you.

Look, everybody knows that a man in his mother’s dress is always good for a cheap laugh. I learned it in high school when I dressed up like Aretha Franklin for a little R-E-S-P-E-C-T in a lip synch contest, which I won (and I didn’t rock the blackface, just the sexy ass). But after your three minutes of sock-it-to-me’s are over, so is the laugh, and so is your R-E-S-P-E-C-T, and then you’re just some dude in a dress that everyybody knows pulled it all together in the last minute, and that really spells F-A-I-L. That’s right, we all know how much trying it takes to tissue in some titties and sock-it-to the back of yo’ Buffalo Bill booty. We also all know that, unless you’re an actual transvestite or cross-dresser, you’re probably just a lazy lout with nothing more to say than, “Hey! I’m a dude in a dress!” If you have to do this, then at least you could learn a lesson from my high school horrorshow and sing a song or something, because a simple dude in a dress is sexist, but a man performing as a Drag-Diva is FAB-U-LOUS, dahling, if only for three minutes.

Crossword of Fear

With Sarah vitet

// By Kevin Murray

The Cool Chart Alcohol AKA Poison!

Clubbing Take away the music and turn the lights on, looks dumb!

Sex Lubricate, stimulate, yuck!

the capilano courier | vol. 45 issue 7

Breasts AKA human udders!

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