Issue 10 2014-15 by The Phoenix News

UBCO’s Student Newspaper

March 9th 2015 | Vol 27, Issue 10

...#ourphoenix since 1989

YOUR 2015 ELECTIONS GUIDE MEET THE CANDIDATES UBCO CRIBS: INSIDE THE SU OFFICE ONCE UPON A STUDENT UNION ELECTION

thephoenixnews.com

IN THIS ISSUE

In this issue we tell a tale to put into perspective the manipulation of the by-laws to the advantage of the slate during this year’s SU elections. We give you the information to help you make your own un-skewed decisions about this year’s elections. Page 12

NEWS

LIFE

Prime minister Harper’s C —51 Bill Page 3

UBCO cribs featuring the Artist Feature: Sarah SU offices James and her take on Page 8 pop culture Page 14 & 15 A look at what it takes to get a student loan Interview with Icelandia Page 10 Page 16

Take a look at this years UBCSUO elections candidates Page 4 — 7

University Centre 3333 University Way Kelowna, BC, Canada V1Y 5N3 Office: UNC 132B Phone: 250-807-9296 thephoenixnews.com Cover and Feature images by Sarah James and Varenka Kim

ARTS

SPORTS

OPINIONS

Heat seasons in review, how the varsity teams did in 2014/ 2015 Page 18

Interview with Professor Levi Gahman Page 21 Addictions myths and histyeria Page 22 The cult of Timmys Page 23

News Editor Alex Barberis

Opinions Editor Brittni MacKenzie-Dale

Web Editor Justin Kroeker

Life Editor Maranda Wilson

Creative Director Cameron Welch

Current Affairs Editor Alex Sadlowski

Features Editor Sasha Curry

Art Director Sarah James

Copy Editor Reba Ouimet

Arts Editor Jeff Bulmer

Contributors

news@thephoenixnews.com

life@thephoenixnews.com

features@thephoenixnews.com

Interim Sports Editor Cameron Welch

sports@thephoenixnews.com

opinions@thephoenixnews.com

creative@thephoenixnews.com

artdirector@thephoenixnews.com

arts@thephoenixnews.com

web@thephoenixnews.com

current.affairs@thephoenixnews.com

copy@thephoenixnews.com

Nicole Block, Shanna Albrecht, Kelsey Andersen, Brodie MacKenzieDale, Robyn Giffen, Scott Crofford

The Phoenix is the UBCO students’ free press. Editorial content is separate from the University of British Columbia Student’s Union Okanagan (UBCSUO) and from the UBC institution at large. The editorial staff encourages everyone to submit material to The Phoenix but reserves the right to withdraw submissions from publication for any reason. “Any reason” could be material deemed to be sexist, racist, homophobic, or of poor taste or quality. The Phoenix will not publish materials which condone, promote, or express actions which are illegal under current laws. This does not include articles which provide an in-depth examination of both sides of a controversial subject (e.g. legalizing marijuana). The Phoenix is published, in part, by the UBCSUO and is an active member of the Canadian University Press.

March 9th, 2015| The Phoenix |news@thephoenixnews.com | News Editor: Alexandra Barberis

NEWS

have any interest* Ifingyoustories or events from

campus, send us an email at news@thephoenixnews.com!

Events March 9-13

5 Days for the Homeless

All Day/FREE/ Students will sleep outside for “5 Days for the Homeless” - a campaign which aims to create awareness and raise funds for the homeless in communities across Canada.

March 10, 12 I, Too, Am, UBCO Photo Shoot

11:00 AM-3:30 PM/FREE/EME, UNC Come get your photo taken and become part of a project aiming to celebrate campus diversity.

March 10

TEDx Tuesdays

11:00 AM-12:00 PM/FREE/UNC Theatre Three TED talks will be shown every Tuesday. Drop-ins accepted.

March 11

Photo by Creative Commons, Stephen Harper

HARPER’S “ANTI-TERRORISM” BILL: A SUMMARY OF C-51 Harper’s proposed bill cracks down on terrorism Learn all about C-51 and why Canadians are quick to criticize it Alex Sadlowski

Current Affairs Editor

It’s likely that a fair number of Canadians are getting tired of hearing horror stories about upcoming laws. Nonetheless, the newly proposed Bill C-51 is becoming increasingly relevant as it moves through the House of Commons, despite a vocal public outcry. With this in mind, here is a brief summary of C-51 and what it could mean for Canadians should it pass into law.

Bill C-51 is often referred to in the media as the “anti-terrorism bill,” and it’s an apt enough nickname. The bill’s proposal was prompted by the murders of two Canadian soldiers in Ottawa this past October, and was submitted in the interest of improving the terrorist prevention measures that the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) has in place. Under Bill C-51, the threshold for arrest will be lowered, allowing law enforcement agencies to arrest a suspect if they believe that a terrorist act “may be carried out.” This is a substantial change in wording from the current standard, in which law enforcement officers can arrest a suspect if they believe a terrorist act “will be carried out.” The bill would also allow CSIS increased permissions in terrorist disruption on the internet. This means interference with internet activity, fi-

nancial transactions, and interruption of phone calls, as well as the ability to seize terrorist propaganda and forcibly remove it from websites containing it. The two most commonly expressed criticisms of the bill involve its often vague wording and how quickly it’s being rushed through Parliament. Bill C-51 states that acts which interfere with the critical or economic infrastructure of Canada would be considered a terrorist act. Many of the bill’s detractors have already pointed out that petroleum is a vital part of Canada’s economic infrastructure, and that environmental protests could theoretically qualify as acts of terrorism under the bill. Because of semantics issues such as this, many Canadians are shocked that the bill is being rushed through Parliament as quickly as it is, stating that it requires far more time for debate in order to properly flesh out

a more detailed and comprehensive solution to terrorism in Canada. Regardless of whether these implications are legitimate concerns or simply a “conspiracy theory” (as Stephen Harper states), Bill C-51 is a significant change to Canadian law that warrants further public consideration. If you are interested in learning more about the bill, I strongly encourage you to read more online and write to your Member of Parliament with any questions/concerns you may have.

Ace Your Interview: Mock Interview Session

2:00 PM-3:00 PM/FREE/Fipke 138 Presented by the Advising & Involvement Centre. A presentation on acing a job interview by career experts. No RSVP required, snacks served.

March 12

Big Wolf on Campus

11:30 AM & 1:00 PM/FREE/EME 1202 Want to see a real wolf? Northern Lights Wildlife Wolf Centre in Golden, BC, is bringing their ambassador wolf, Flora, to campus to help us learn about what is happening in Canada with the BC Wolf Management Plan

March 15

Okanagan WinterFest

8:00 AM-6:30 PM/$45/Big White Registration includes round-trip transportation between campus and Big White and access to skiing/boarding, tubing, food/drinks and more.

March 20, 21

National

Dalhousie dentistry whistleblower only student still not allowed in clinic Ryan Millet, the Dalhousie dentistry student who informed the school about a misogynistic Facebook group created by fourthyear male dentistry students, is the only member of the group still banned from clinical practice. Although Millet is the person who brought the Facebook group to the

attention of Dalhousie officials, Dalhousie’s prosecuting officer maintains that Millet is guilty because he was a member of the group. While the 12 other group members went through a restorative justice program and were allowed to return to treating patients, Millet was removed from the process when he denied any wrongdoing and requested that he not be considered a member of the group. Photo: Tom Flemming/Creative Commons

Winners and Losers

8:00 PM/$20 general, $15 students & seniors/University Theatre (ADM 026) Play written and performed by Marcus Youssef and James Long. Tickets will be available for purchase at the UBCO Bookstore or at the door.

MEET THE 2015 ELECTIONS CANDIDATES do you feel about the up* How coming elections? You can tell us

by tweeting at us @ubcophoenix!

you have any interesting * Ifpeople you’d like to see us interview, let us know!

SENATOR-AT-LARGE

Alliance Babunga

Lauren Oleksewich

Nicole Legg

Chido Muchenji

1. Tell me about yourself 3rd year International Relations student currently serving as an executive in the International Relations Student Association and the Model United Nations club. I am also a Peer Mentor. While at UBCO, I’ve been involved in numerous ways as I personally value student engagement and its importance. I love interacting and meeting new students.

1. Tell me about yourself My name is Lauren Oleksewich and I am currently in my third year as a Bachelor of Arts student, majoring in Psychology. I grew up in Kelowna, and love taking advantage of our unique environment such as hiking the mountains and enjoying our local wine.

1. Tell me about yourself My name is Nicole Legg and I am a third year Bachelor of Science Psychology major, and will be completing the Honours Specialization degree program for my final year. I am highly involved in research for both the Psychology Department and the Health and Wellness Centre.

2. Why did you apply for this particular position? I am currently doing a work-studies with the UBCO Health and Wellness Centre and am a student co-researcher with the VOICE and Wellbeing Project and UBCO Thrive. I want to reduce the stigma behind mental health and assure that all aspects of campus health and wellbeing are acknowledged at an institutional level.

2. Why did you apply for this particular position? I am incredibly passionate about advocating for mental health awareness and wellbeing for our entire campus community. I am interested in making changes at the institutional and systemic level that better protect students from distress through proactive, versus reactive, measures. Senate is a perfect platform for making impactful changes at the policy level.

2. Why did you apply for this particular position? It was about time!! My best friend and I used to jokingly laugh about one day joining the Senate or Student Union before we graduate, well I guess sometimes things are meant to happen so I decided to take the chance. Also, I believe that adding uniqueness and diversity in the student governance is important. 3. What specifically will you do in this position if elected to it? I am currently working on the composition of a Mental Health and Wellbeing policy that will be presented through the senate, so that with every executive decision that is made, the impact that it has on students, staff, and faculty wellbeing along with campus environment must be taken into account. If elected, I will make it my priority to assure that this is properly executed.

3. What specifically will you do in this position if elected to it? I am currently working on the composition of a Mental Health and Wellbeing policy that will be presented through the senate, so that with every executive decision that is made, the impact that it has on students, staff, and faculty wellbeing along with campus environment must be taken into account. If elected, I will make it my priority to assure that this is properly executed.

3. What specifically will you do in this position if elected to it? I am in the process of building a presentation for Senate to propose the formation of a Mental Health and Wellbeing Committee, as has already been done at UBC Vancouver. This committee will work to build a framework of criteria that will guide policy and Senate decisions in evaluating the impact on campus health and wellbeing.

SENATE FACULTY REPS - ARTS Shira Sneg

1. Tell me about yourself I am very dynamic , I am constantly trying to find ways to make things more efficient. I enjoy getting to know people , you could say I am a social butterfly. I genuinely enjoy helping others. I am also very strong willed. I am a loving person so if you see me around don’t hesitate to say hi.

1. Tell me about yourself My name is Shira and I am the current Student Representative for the Arts & Sciences Faculty on Senate. I consider myself a lifelong learner and community-linker. When I’m not in school or working, I enjoy being with friends, baking/cooking, going on walks, reading, and indoor cycling.

2. Why did you apply for this particular position? I have always wanted to run for student government. However this year what really pushed me to run for Senator at-Large was the way the academic year was set up, (the awkward timing of reading break) I also believe that the school has the potential to offer more courses that are needed by a lot of students, if UBC-V can do it, so can we.

2. Why did you apply for this particular position? I am passionate about making a positive difference on campus and have done so by being on the Senate for the past 2 years. We have had such growth in terms of presence and student representation with the Student Senate Caucus (SSC), and I am excited to keep the momentum going!

3. What specifically will you do in this position if elected to it? During the year I have taken some courses that have not been up to the standards that a university like ours should have. I will work hard to ensure that we are learning material that is up to date, and I would also work hard to find out when the student body would want to have reading break, and then convey this message to the Senate, as best as I can.

3. What specifically will you do in this position if elected to it? My asset lies in my seniority in the position, so I will focus on mentoring incoming senators and further establishing and strengthening the SSC. I have been working on forming a wellbeing framework for passing decisions in Senate with 2 senate candidates on my team, which I will be continuing.

BOARD OF GOVERNORS Jeff Krupa

1. Tell me about yourself I’m a science student studying physics and math, and I’m especially interested in theoretical physics. I’m an elected Senator-at-Large, residence advisor, physics TA, and research assistant in an engineering lab. I was born in Edmonton and raised in Kelowna, and I love this place. 2. Why did you apply for this particular position? The first time I ever considered

running for the Board of Governors was last semester when a friend was dealing with severe depression. I knew they needed help but I wasn’t sure what to do. I did a quick Google search and stumbled across the “Early Alert” system, which was only available to students in Vancouver. If we had Early Alert on the Okanagan campus, I would have been able to use my UBC ID to refer my friend to a mental health professional. I think it’s unreasonable that Okanagan stu-

dents don’t have access to the same services. 3. What specifically will you do in this position if elected to it? My full platform has seven key points and is available at facebook. com/JeffKrupaUBC. I’m running to be the Okanagan student representative on the Board of Governors because I want to ensure that UBC’s development decisions are studentfocused and progress the goal of

creating a healthier environment for students. That means increasing student enrolment in a sustainable way, prioritizing better food options, promoting student jobs through co-op and research opportunities, and funding mental health initiatives. I think politics should be about the exchange of ideas, debate, and critical analysis so I really wanted to run a substantive campaign focused on policy.

MEET THE 2015 ELECTIONS CANDIDATES you a student who was impacted by the change * Are in Campus Life jobs? Send us an email to news@

thephoenixnews.com to be interviewed for our next issue of The Phoenix.

SENATE FACULTY REPS - CCS Lauren Marshall

BOARD OF DIRECTORS DIRECTOR AT LARGE Luke Cooke

BOARD OF DIRECTORS DIRECTOR AT LARGE

Jessica Van Brummelen

1. Tell me about yourself I am a third year Creative Writing and Political Science major. I am active in the FCCS course unions, and I am a work study student under the Creative Writing Faculty. My writing has been published in The Dalhousie Review and UBCO’s Paper Shell anthology. I also participate in Youth Parliament and Model United Nations.

1. Tell me about yourself I was born and raised in Kelowna. I like to snowboard the winter, and in the summer I like to wakeboard and enjoy helping coach my little brother’s baseball team – the Kelowna Cubs. I’ve got 6 siblings and love the chaos that comes with a big family. I hate public speaking, and am a member of Toastmasters at UBC Okanagan,

1. Tell me about yourself I am a second year engineering student, I am running for DirectorAt-Large with United, and have a passion for equality, kindness, and innovation. I’m currently the President of UBCO’s Canadian Society for Mechanical Engineers Student Chapter and a member of several clubs including the Mechatronics Club and the WiSE Program.

2. Why did you apply for this particular position? I am keenly aware of the differences in practice of FCCS grading and course structures in comparison to other faculties, and I want to ensure that the Senate considers these differences in its decision making. I have friends in all of the ten FCCS faculties, and I want to create open forums for them to affect the course of their school community.

2. Why did you apply for this particular position? This past summer I realized the potential we have as students. We’ve got a certain amount of time here and we should try and make the most of it. I’m open ears and hardworking hands, I want to be nothing less than a key to unlock the best University experience possible for all of us.

2. Why did you apply for this particular position? I am passionate about building a campus that’s inclusive, positive, and innovative. In the Director-At-Large position, I will be able to provide the student body with even more of the opportunities for personal- and career-related growth that I have been so blessed by here, with further club and event funding.

3. What specifically will you do in this position if elected to it? I want my decisions to be based on the opinions of the FCCS students, which I would collect through forums and polls. I also want to contribute to creating a safe and sustainable campus. I want to see student-led initiatives take place at a highest governing level. Our growing campus has much potential for progressive and sustainable development.

SENATE SENATORS-AT-LARGE & DIRECTOR AT LARGE Raziya Merani

3. What specifically will you do in this position if elected to it? If I’m elected, I will play a role in increasing the waste audit score by reducing waste. I will contribute to raising awareness and eliminating the stigma of mental health. I will work to have the student body understand how easy it is to make a difference when you are truly passionate.

have any interest* Ifingyoustories or events from

3. What specifically will you do in this position if elected to it? As Director-At-Large, I will help build a campus with more community connections, student resources, and equality. More specifically, I plan to support the development of a more accessible meal plan, an oncampus drug and grocery store, increased student club and association funding, a cross-faculty internship subsidy program, and Expo UBC.

campus, send us an email at news@thephoenixnews.com!

BOARD OF DIRECTORS DIRECTOR AT LARGE Henry Telfer

1. Tell me about yourself I am an outgoing and passionate second year management student. I grew up in the small town of Gibsons, B.C. on the Sunshine Coast. I love to be active and get outdoors; I play Hockey and Ultimate Frisbee. I am a member of the UBCO DJ Club and recently co-founded the UBCO Ultimate Club. 2. Why did you apply for this particular position? I applied to be a Director at Large because of the freedom the position offers. Beyond the office this position gives me the opportunity to take on various projects that I wouldn’t be offered otherwise. I want to be involved in a little bit of everything and gain life long experience. 3. What specifically will you do in this position if elected to it? My first goal is to improve student involvement with the UBCSUO and UBCSUO events. I share this goal with other candidates and will work with them to achieve it. Second is to increase patrons at The Well Pub and build for it a great reputation that will last for decades.

1. Tell me about yourself My name is Raziya Merani and I am a third-year student majoring in Medical Biochemistry. I am involved with many different clubs on campus, such as acting as the Chief of Staff for the Model United Nations Club. Other than school, I love watching re-runs of Friends episodes on Netflix!

This year, I am running for two positions – Director at Large and Senator at Large. I am running in the elections because I would like to get more involved with the Student Government, and to support our lovely campus in whatever way possible.

2. Why did you apply for this particular position?

If elected, some specific ideas that I have are to get the library hours

3. What specifically will you do in this position if elected to it?

BOARD OF DIRECTORS FACULTY REP - ARTS Liam Moran

1. Tell me about yourself My name is Liam Moran, I am a fourth year double major in English and Political Science. Some of my favourite things to do are ski and golf, depending on what season it is. I also have a newfound affinity for chess and will gladly take on whoever challenges me. 2. Why did you apply for this particular position? I am determined to give back to UBCO as it has done so much for me. Since becoming the Faculty of Arts Representative back in September I have learned so much what can and needs to be done. Carrying that into next year just seems like the most logical step. 3. What specifically will you do in this position if elected to it? Arts students fear graduation because there isn’t a defined path for them to follow. I want to clear that path as best I can by offering more programs and initiatives, through the Student’s Union, where Art’s students can meet and learn from potential employers.

of operation extended and to bring forth co-op programs for faculties that don’t have them already. I want to address the needs and desires of the student body and to promote student synergy around campus.

MEET THE 2015 ELECTIONS CANDIDATES an opinion about the UBCSUO elections? We * Have want to hear it. Send us your thoughts.!

to write for The Phoenix? * Want Send us a writing sample and

some topics you’re interested in writing about to news@thephoenixnews.com

BOARD OF DIRECTORS PRESIDENT

BOARD OF DIRECTORS VP EXTERNAL

BOARD OF DIRECTORS VP INTERNAL

BOARD OF DIRECTORS VP FINANCE

Tom Macauley

Kelly Taverner

Aman Dehal

Ryan Kalia

Frank Liao

1. Tell me about yourself As long as I can remember I’ve been in love with History. Not only does it inspire, it can be used as a tool to build a better world. I also love to spend time with my nieces and nephew when I’m not Bartending or when I’m not at school. .

1. Tell me about yourself I am a third year management student with a passion for leadership and community service. I am extensively involved with the M.S.A. on campus, I work with HOPE Outreach and Inn from the Cold in the community, and spend my free time doing martial arts training and spending time with my loved ones!

1. Tell me about yourself I am a third year student who belongs to the faculty of Creative and Critical Studies, majoring in English. I transferred to UBCO last September from Okanagan College. I am confident in four languages: English, Hindi, Punjabi, and Spanish. I am a people person and like to meet new individuals. I believe that if you contribute or donate your time to others then others will donate back to you.

2. Why did you apply for this particular position? I have always been committed to the idea that if you want to see something changed or made better, you not only should pursue it, but you have a responsibility to engage your peers and to make that effort. I feel there are endless opportunities ahead for the students union and I feel that having served as a representative in the past, as well as an employee, I would offer a wellrounded perspective on a range of issues that pertain to both the campus as well as UBC’s role in the community. In essence, I love being a part of the UBCO family and would be honoured to contribute to making it the best it can be for years to come. 3. What specifically will you do in this position if elected to it? As President I will work to Further develop our student resources; Implement a pilot cross-faculty internship program in partnership with UBC, local business associations, and community leaders. Launch the 1st annual Expo UBC. Check www. UNITEDubc.ca for more information.

2. Why did you apply for this particular position? I am running for VP external because I am passionate about engaging students on campus and working with professionals and businesses in the community. I believe that through the experiences that I have had and the skills I have developed working with the M.S.A, that I have the capacity to created value for students by bridging the gap between the campus and the community. I am really excited about this position because it gives me the opportunity to engage and get to know students outside of the management faculty and further immerse myself in the community. 3. What specifically will you do in this position if elected to it? If elected, I will work diligently with my colleagues to foster an improved relationship between the UBCO student body and the community. I believe that if we invest in the community, the community will invest in us. I plan to do this by increasing our number of community partners, creating opportunities for student internships in Kelowna, and hosting off campus events to interact with local businesses and professionals.

2. Why did you apply for this particular position? I want to know the UBCO community through working with each and every individual. They might not know me, but I want to know them. I want to hear what they think of the place where they come everyday to bring a change in their lives, to find their place in the world, and discover who they are. When I first stepped on the campus, I felt that students are not connected to one another and are not aware of what is happening on the campus. Throughout the year, I still felt the same. I decided to step up to connect the students through a solution of Campus App. 3. What specifically will you do in this position if elected to it? If I get elected then I will launch a UBCO Campus App which offers features such as personalized calendar, push notifications of events happening on the campus, a campus map, dinning places hours, coupons, and much more. Besides, I have been a VP external at the college for a year so I have the experience of connecting students to their community. As well, I will also expand the campus food drive in a way so students and staff is not only giving away, but there is something back for them. Choose me as your next VP Internal and I will not let you down because I will always be there to hear your voices.

1. Tell me about yourself Hey guys! I’m Ryan, a third year student majoring in BioChemistry. I was voted into our student union this past year as a director at large and am currently a member of the SSA, BCCU, ECCU, ISA, SASA and sit on the team development committee for UBCO’s Relay for Life.

1. Tell me about yourself I’m a third year Psychology Student. I am currently the President of Asian Student Association, running a committee member of 28 and overseeing a membership of over 250 active members. My primary passion is to have the vision and tools to help others around me to succeed.

2. Why did you apply for this particular position? Already elected into the student union I know I have the credentials necessary to be our next VP Finance. Over the last three years I have put forth my best effort to ensure that I not only complete but excel in all my studies/commitments. I believe in following through. My platforms were achieved last year with the referendum of the library passing and I will not stop there. I am an independent candidate, not a politician. I am running for the students and will serve to bring transparency to the $1.5 million dollars received each year from all our pockets.

2. Why did you apply for this particular position? I have been heavily involved in school activities, events and operations for the past 2 years. Along with my team, I have coordinated in the creation of ASA’s operation’s budget and have generated a consistent stream of revenue from all our events. Our Student’s Union has over 5 million dollars in assets, multiple services, and employment base of over 100 full and part time staff and an annual operating budget of over 1.5 million dollars. My goal is to maximize the effectiveness of that budge and make our dollar go further, while still providing improvements to our services. I believe I have the necessary tools for continuity and growth.

3. What specifically will you do in this position if elected to it? If elected, addressing the lack of a safe pathway for Academy Hill students is a must. I have also constructed a fresh, more efficient club funding model based on the TESIF reimbursement method. This frees up more money for our clubs/ course unions to put to use. A better job connecting every student on campus needs to be done so by creating a hub/events page for all events around campus will truly engage each students. I love interacting with others and available to any input, whether it’s through email, text or in person so expect all doors to be open!

3. What specifically will you do in this position if elected to it? From the start of my term, I will work to ensure consistency in granting funds across student associations. Club and Course Union representatives will decide together in a working forum to come up with a funding model that works for everyone. My role on the team is to allocate funds for other executive to do their job effectively and that means developing a close communication with my fellow executive members.

MEET THE 2015 ELECTIONS CANDIDATES you participating in 5 Days * Are for the Homeless? We want to

you didn’t send us your Can* Ifdidate bio and would still like

hear your story for the next issue of The Phoenix News.

it to be featured email news@ thephoenixnews.com.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS FACULTY REP - ARTS

BOARD OF DIRECTORS FACULTY REP - SCIENCE

BOARD OF DIRECTORS FACULTY REP - AP SCI

BOARD OF DIRECTORS FACULTY REP - EDUCATION

Danielle Kyei

Kimberly Rutledge

Wesley Mclean

Addie Chaddock

1. Tell me about yourself I am from Burnaby, British Columbia and I am quite involved on campus. Currently, I am student crew coordinator at UBCO TV, UnderSecretary General of Communications for the Model UN Club,I have a passion for politics and I serve as a Director for the UBCO Young Liberals. In my spare time i like skating and playing volleyball

Kimberly is from Quesnel, British Columbia and is in her first year studying sciences at UBCO. Kimberly has championed a number of initiatives focused on advocating for special needs individuals and a global understanding of acceptance. She has publicly spoken at multiple conferences including Tedx and the End the ‘R-Word’ Campaign. Kimberly is passionate about nutrition and spent part of her summer working on food security in rural India. She hopes to pursue a career in health after graduation. Kimberly cares about the health, happiness, and success of all students and through her initiatives wants to work for more growth in these areas. Her desire for change and dedication to improving the lives of students is why she is running for Director of Science on the Board of Directors.

1. Tell me about yourself I’m originally from Alberta, but I have been happily living in Kelowna for the past four years. I study mechanical engineering in the Faculty of Applied Science, but also have a strong interest in business and politics. I love to travel, meet new people, and try new things – especially food.

1. Tell me about yourself I grew up in the town of Salmon Arm and moved to Kelowna four years ago. I love Kelowna because it has many outdoor similarities in comparison to my hometown. I graduated last year with my major in Psychology and am currently working towards my bachelor of Education.

2. Why did you apply for this particular position? I chose this position because I believe I can serve the benefit of both engineering students and the Students’ Union. I have gained valuable insight into both representing students and organizational politics through my two years serving as Senator of Applied Science and my three years with the Engineering Society.

2. Why did you apply for this particular position? I applied for this position because I wanted to experience a different aspect of campus life. From moving to a new city and attending such a diverse campus it was hard for me to get involved. I also wanted to run on behalf of the Education program because there are so many amazing individuals within the program that have so much to offer the education community.

2. Why did you apply for this particular position? The reason I applied is because there is time for change. Having the possible opportunity to represent such an amazing community of ambitious arts students is an honor itself. The Arts faculty is a large on its own and I want to establish connections between each of the programs so that we strengthen the community within the arts faculty. 3. What specifically will you do in this position if elected to it? If elected, I will start the plans on proposing an Arts Week for arts faculty to have a week dedicated to achievements that are taking place within the faculty. As well, begin the groundwork on bringing back CoOp for arts and sciences faculties.

3. What specifically will you do in this position if elected to it? My biggest goal would be to work to bridge the disconnect between engineering students and the Students’ Union. I want to see more students from the faculty getting involved and being active in the campus community; I believe this starts with establishing good communication and working to engage with students.

3. What specifically will you do in this position if elected to it? I want to make volunteering opportunities more available to the student body. So much of our time is spent between work and school that searching for volunteering opportunities can be time consuming. I would advocate for these opportunities to become more applicable and accessible to specific programs. Volunteering with these opportunities would include book drives, donations to local shelters, and literacy programs with local elementary schools.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS FACULTY REP - HEALTH AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT Maddison McCardell

I was born in Vancouver, and moved to Kelowna three years ago when I started my first year in Sciences at UBCO. I quickly began to realize my passion was fitness, and switched into the Human Kinetics program. During my spare time at school I can usually be found either studying, working, or working out. I am currently involved in the Student Union as the Health & Social Development Faculty Representative, as well as working at the University gym as a Customer Service employee. I want others to be just as interested and involved in our school, and realize what a great campus we all go to. I want to represent the Health & Social development faculty by bridging the gap between everyone and bringing problems forward that both Nursing and Human Kinetics students may have. I want to communicate opportunities to those that are looking for practical experiences out of class, and to get students to be a part of volunteer opportunities that can better our community.

Did not send in Candidate Bios: Board of Governors: Michael Flaherty-Specht Senator at Large: Elisa Gallaccio, Babar Ali, Terry Zhang Senate Faculty Representative, Applied Science: Dejo Oyelse Senate Faculty Representative, Management: Daman Bual VP Internal: Romey Jaswal

VP Services: Layne Richardson Director at Large: Leo Tan, Matthew Fielding Board of Directors Faculty Representatives, Management: Aneeq Siddiqui Board of Directors Faculty Representatives, Graduate Students: Ryan Hoiland

Life Editor: Maranda Wilson | life@thephoenixnews.com | The Phoenix | March 9th 2015

LIFE

specs: Eight individual offices, *Office kitchenette, open concept with rearrangeable and removable partitions (which are ecofriendly!).

Images by Maranda Wilson

UBCO CRIBS: YOUR STUDENTS’ UNION Ever wonder what the inside of the UBCSUO office looks like? General Manager, Bob Drunkemolle, gives us a tour. Maranda Wilson Life Editor In the spirit of elections, I visited the hub of Students’ Union activity: their office. General Manager Bob Drunkemolle is responsible for overseeing the Students’ Union and ensuring all members are fulfilling the duties of their job descriptions. Located in the UNC by the Taco Del Mar, Bob spared a couple of minutes from his hectic schedule to let me see what goes on beyond the glass doors.

Facts from Bob’s office Did you know...

Bob’s favourite part of his office: “I can see everything that happens behind me [glass wall that faces The Well patio], and everything in front of me.” Bob’s organized office space features front and back glass walls he loves for being “friendly.” His space allows him to see everything that is going on around him, as well as making his space welcoming and open for all students to pop by and chat.

A typical day for Bob: “There isn’t even close to a typical day around here,” laughs Bob. “There’s a curveball here every 15 minutes.” It’s a familiar sight to see Bob running to where he needs to get to next. Describe your best memory: “We can all sit around here [central table] and have a good group chat. People will roll out of their offices and join in.”

Bob has an authentic copy of the Canadian Bill of Rights in his office. “I felt it was better suited for the Students’ Union office, so I got it framed and brought it in.” He proudly and fittingly displays it under the SU logo.

The central area/ kitchenette The SU office houses seven other individual offices in addition to Bob’s. This includes an accounting office, a boardroom for meetings, Sarah’s office (she looks after clubs), Fran’s office (Bob’s assistant), an office for the Vice Presidents, the President’s office —currently occupied by Rocky Kim, and the catering/project manager’s office.

Top three fridge must haves: Sushi, milk, and staff lunches (not shown). The fridge also frequently guards Red Bull orders for events. Bob describes the office receiving stacks of Red Bull and Monster energy drinks.

“When I have meetings and they get intense, I have the football in my hand,” says Bob.

March 9th 2015 | The Phoenix | life@thphoenixnews.com | Life Editor: Maranda Wilson

you know of a person or group doing interesting *Do things on campus? Let us know about them via email

and they may be featured right here in Life next issue

THE LIST: WORD OF THE YEAR

#blacklivesmatter: hashtag used as protest over blacks killed at the hands of police (esp. Michael Brown in Ferguson, Mo. and Eric Garner in Staten Island).

MOST USEFUL

even: deal with or reconcile difficult situations or emotions (from “I can’t even”).

MOST CREATIVE

columbusing: cultural appropriation, especially the act of a white person claiming to discover things already known to minority cultures.

MOST UNNECESSARY baeless: without a romantic partner (lacking a bae).

MOST OUTRAGEOUS

second-amendment: v. to kill (someone) with a gun, used ironically by gun control supporters

MOST EUPHEMISTIC Composite Image by Sarah James

WORD OF THE YEAR: #BLACKLIVESMATTER Every year the American Dialect Society releases their “Word of the Year” list. Robyn explains the significance of the list and why it matters. Robyn Giffen Contributor At the annual meeting every January members of the ADS vote on which words have been the most significant in the last year, selecting an overall winner as well as words in subcategories including most useful, most outrageous, and most likely to succeed. Nominated words do not have to be brand new, but they must have gained popularity and usage during the year. In a press release the ADS said this of the voting process: “In conducting

Phoenix #selfie contest participants Do you like prizes like UBC swag and The Well gift cards? Post a selfie with the cover, tag and follow @ubcophoenix, and hashtag #ourphoenix for a chance to win!

the vote, they [members] act in fun and do not pretend to be officially inducting words into the English language. Instead, they are highlighting that language change is normal, ongoing, and entertaining” (ADS 2015). In 2012 #hashtag was voted as word of the year, and only two years later we have seen how significant hashtags became. So significant in fact, that this year the ADS developed a new category for hashtag of the year. And even more compelling is that the winner of the hashtag category, #blacklivesmatter, was also the overall winner of word of the year for 2014. To win this coveted spot as word of the year, #blacklivesmatter beat out four other nominated words including: -columbusing: cultural appropriation, specifically a white person “discovering” things that minority cultures

“In 2012 #hashtag was voted as word of the year, and only two years later we have seen how significant hashtags have become..” already know. -even: dealing with difficult situations or emotions as in, “I can’t even.” -manspreading: to sit with your legs spread wide which blocks the seats beside you on public transit. -bae: a romantic partner.

Heat athletes sent us their submission with their copies found by the Fipke Starbucks.

Other organizations and societies also select a word of the year, but there is not usually a common winner. The Oxford English Dictionary selected vape (smoking an electronic cigarette), and Merriam-Webster selected culture, which they define as “a kind of academic attention to systematic behavior and allows us to identify and isolate an idea, issue, or group” (MW 2014). Despite the difference in words selected, the common theme of the word of the year is that it signifies what was important and talked about in the previous year. Although #blacklivesmatter is not a word by the conventional definition, it is certainly a word that got everyone’s attention in 2014 with its powerful message. #blacklivesmatter demonstrates once again that languages are constantly changing and new words are created all the time.

EIT: abbreviation for the already euphemistic “enhanced interrogation technique.”

MOST LIKELY TO SUCCEED

salty: exceptionally bitter, angry, or upset.

LEAST LIKELY TO SUCCEED

platisher: online media publisher that also serves as a platform for creating content.

MOST NOTABLE HASHTAG (new category)

#blacklivesmatter: protest over blacks killed at the hands of police (esp. Michael Brown in Ferguson, Mo., Eric Garner in Staten Island).

@valascott tagged us with her photo on Instagram.

Life Editor: Maranda Wilson | life@thephoenixnews.com | The Phoenix | March 9th 2015 you ever done a juice cleanse? * Have How was it? Share your experience

a question for Scott? Email us * Have at life@thephoenixnews.com

with us on twitter @ubcophoenix.

Before getting approved: 1. BRING I.D.

One government issued and another photo I.D. is usually sufficient.

2. PAPERWORK

Bring something to verify your income.

3.WAIT

Three to five business days.

Flickr Creative Commons by Taber Andrew Bain

LOAN APPLICATIONS 101 First time applying for a loan? Let our financial expert walk you through getting approved! Scott Crofford Contributor So you need some credit and you want to know what to expect when you apply for your loan. You can look back at my previous articles, (head to The Phoenix website if you need to refresh your memory) to get a basic understanding of how a loan application goes. First off, in order to apply for a loan and give yourself both the best chance of success and the quickest decision time, you need to bring in some essential paperwork. The essentials include personal ID because this allows the bank

to be reasonably sure that you are who you say you are, and that in the event of an issue they will be able to contact you. Generally, you need at least one piece of primary government issue ID such as a SIN, driver’s license, or BCID. The secondary piece doesn’t necessarily have to meet such a strict standard. Your bank can inform you of what kinds of ID they accept. The ID should have your current address on it, but that isn’t necessarily a requirement. Next, you need some kind of paperwork substantiating your income. In the past it was possible to use a letter from your employer to verify income, but this practice isn’t supported as widely and often requires secondary verification. What is most often used for a wage employee is a month’s worth of pay-

“Chances are if this is your first credit application, you won’t be approved right away.”

stubs. Generally it is better to bring in three or more months’ worth in order to establish consistency. I’ll go into a bit more detail about what kinds of paperwork are used in a follow-up article. With your ID verified, your address on file, and your income presented to them, a loans officer can begin to examine your application. As mentioned in a previous article, this is where your credit score comes into play. If you have no score, your options are pretty limited; however, each bank differs. Your options in that instance tend to be either a cosigned card or a secured card, but some banks will provide a small card without that kind of added security. In any case, chances are if this is your first credit application you won’t be approved right away. This process takes differing amounts of time for

each bank (usually a few days). The best choice is to follow-up based on the timeline they provide you. If you already have a credit score, you might be able to obtain approval the same day and may even be able to borrow on that product later in that same day. Again, don’t be surprised if the loans officer needs to send it up the bureaucracy for approval, and keep in mind this will take some time. Well that about covers it. The next article will discuss income verification paperwork in a little more detail. For Scott’s previous articles, visit: www.phoenixnews.com

Life Hacks

The 48Hour Cleanse Jeff Bulmer Arts Editor

In preparation for our upcoming Health & Wellness issue, I decided to go on a three-day juice cleanse and report my findings to The Phoenix News. However, after being entirely unsatisfied with various cleanses I found online, I decided to make my own.

Step 1: Gather your ingredients

Use whatever juices you have lying around. I used lime juice, apple juice, V8, and Busch.

March 9th 2015 | The Phoenix | life@thphoenixnews.com | Life Editor: Maranda Wilson you run a blog? If so and you would like to be be * Do feature in the next issue of The Phoenix News send us a sample of your work to life@thephoenxnews.com.

you know of a person or group doing interesting * Do things on campus? Let us know about them via email

and they may be featured right here in Life next issue

Photos by Shanna Albrecht

BLACK IS THE NEW BLACK The Kardashian/Jenner family is known to rock this trend. Shanna walks you through the basics of rocking an all-black outfit. Shanna Albrecht Contributor Hi again, Phoenix readers! Happy March to all of you! Almost 11 years ago, I decided that I wanted a closet of only black clothing after watching Raising Helen. Kate Hudson’s character only wore black and had the most gorgeous closet of black pieces. My thinking: how perfect! I never have to worry about my clothes not matching ever again. I can just mix up the different pieces and always look good. However, my plan failed

because I kept buying coloured clothing. It was not until I started working in restaurants and bars that I actually began converting to the dark side. I get a lot of my fashion and style inspiration from other people. The Native Fox is a style blogger that rocks headto-toe black and makes me want to throw out anything brighter than grey. Another blogger, Black White and Brunette knows how to do neutral with the best of them. And we can’t forget about the Kardashian/Jenner sisters. Kendall is my favourite all-black outfit-styler of the bunch. She chooses sexy, but tasteful outfits (at least for the most part) and manages to make it look easy. My go-to black pieces: -A leather jacket -High-waisted pants -Crop top -Booties.. The key to making an all-black outfit

“Almost 11 years ago, I decided that I wanted a closet of only black clothing after watching Raising Helen.”

Step 2: Only drink juice, nothing else

The point of a cleanse is to use juice to flush your body of toxins like lactose, cacao, and red-meat goblins. We use juice because juice contains none of these things.

look good is to make sure your black pieces are all the same shade. When purchasing black clothing, make sure you understand the washing instructions so the colour does not fade or bleed after only a couple of washes. Sometimes a faded black can appear blue against a solid black piece. An alternative is to work in different fabrics: mix sheer with satin, velvet with denim, or leather with cotton. To break up the outfit, pair a fun accessory with the outfit that you want to highlight, such as a statement necklace and patterned or coloured shoe. The best part about black pieces is that you can never have too many and that they will always match. More importantly, it will likely never go out of style. That is perfection.

-Left: pants: Urban Outfitters, crop top: American Apparel, jacket: Topshop, shoes: Aldo Middle: skirt: American Apparel, jacket: Topshop, shirt: Urban Outfitters, booties and necklace: Aldo Right: pants: American Eagle Outfitters, crop top and wrapped shirt: American Apparel, booties: Aldo

Like what you see? Check out Shanna’s fashion blog for more: www.peppermintteastyle.com

Much love, xx Shanna

Step 3: Enjoy your V8

When you’re feeling pizza, what you’re actually feeling is tomato paste. V8’s active ingredient is also tomato paste, so V8 is essentially the same thing as pizza. There are so many different types of juice cleanses out there, find one that works for you.

ONCE UPON A STUDENT UNION ELECTION...

WHEN IT COMES TO THE BATTLE FOR THE THRONE, THERE ARE NO WINNERS OR LOSERS, SIMPLY AN OUTCOME THAT WILL INFLUENCE THE BUDGET FOR NEXT YEAR. Once upon a time, there was a Students’ Union election…When it comes to the battle for the throne there are no real winners or losers, just outcomes that influence the budget for next year. This is the story of how the SU elections got turned upside down. We’ll tell you why some of the independent candidates sit mopey with a frown.This should only take a minute, so just sit right there, and to learn how the elections are simply unfair. Once upon a time, in a land not far from here, sat the democratically-ruled kingdom of UBCO, where there lived a great and lofty King. The King ruled the land with a boisterous voice influenced by hearty pints of ye olde Big Surf in hand. Generally admired by all, this King was popular amongst his subjects. In the King’s land, fall turned to winter, and winter turned to spring. With the arrival of spring in the year of 2015, came the call for a Students’ Union election—the chance to change the dynasty that once ruled UBCO and end the reign of the King. The banners were hung, ravens were sent out, and the games for the throne began. Over the course of a fortnight, candidates were tasked with the challenge of competing for the hearts of the masses. Hordes of citizens flocked to the challenge, but many paled in comparison to the Eldest Son of the King. The name of the Eldest Son was seen as good and true by those who knew him, but there was no denying it, daddy was paying for those velvet pants. The Eldest Son began by meeting the subjects of UBCO through the Book of Faces, Postagram, and Hoot in order gain popularity amongst the masses. The Eldest Son was a relatively unknown character to the people of the land and subjects began to question, who was this eldest child and why did he call upon them in his quest for the throne? The Eldest Son knew he could not win the throne alone, so he read the sacred scriptures of the bylaws set in place by his father. These bylaws allowed him to call upon the previously-banned Knights of the Boardroom Table to stand with him, United for a Better Kingdom. The King learned of his son’s intentions and decided to support him and the Knights of the Boardroom Table in their quest for the throne. As the kingdom of UBCO operated as a democratic institution, the call for a king was open to all the subjects of the land with an equal chance for the throne. Yet when interested subjects attempted to meet with the current King, they were persuaded out of kingship due to the fact that the King believed that his son was best suited for the role. As a result, no one dared to oppose the Eldest Son. In order to protect the integrity of his prodigy, the King’s dealings were kept secret from his son. Here is the first problem in our pleasant little fairy tale. As President of the Students’ Union, shouldn’t one be actively pushing students to get involved and engaged in the democratic process? To

be creating discussion instead of encouraging people to be submissive to his opinion? Rocky runs the United for a Better Campus campaign, but as members of the Students’ Union, shouldn’t we be asking our President to stay neutral? In order to organize the event, the King called upon the Magical Bearded Wizard to run the Students’ Union election. It was the Magical Bearded Wizard’s job to ensure that the elections were run fairly and that no candidate broke the rules of the sacred scriptures. Little did the people of UBCO know, the Wizard and the King had been friends since childhood. Childhood friends? You mean the King of UBCO—who is running the Eldest Child’s campaign—hired his good friend the Magical Bearded Wizard to ensure that the elections are fair? Doesn’t this inherently call into question the Magical Bearded Wizard’s impartiality? If you’re hiring someone for the job of maintaining ethical standards, this shouldn’t even be a question. The crowds shouted, “How dare they! This process is unfair!” And the King cried “We’re doing nothing wrong. Why should I care?” Independent candidates from across the land attempted to appeal to the Magical Bearded Wizard but he was not interested in their complaints. “If you have a problem you must pay a fee! Not just anyone can come and talk to me!” “But you have the final say!” cried the villagers. “There’s no appeals committee to hear our dismay!” You heard them right—because there is no appeals committee the CRO has final say. If you have a complaint you must pay a $50 fee in order to be taken seriously. And speaking of finances…

The King’s wealth proved problematic for the masses, as there was a limit set by the Magical Bearded Wizard on how many resources each candidate could devote to their campaign. The problem lay in the fact that the King liked to spend and spend on propagating his interests in the land of UBCO, and his interest was now the Eldest Son’s campaign. Luckily for the King and his son, the Magical Bearded Wizard had ruled that campaign finances were not to be evaluated until after voting had occurred. I can’t even… This one should be self-explanatory. I’m sure penalizing them AFTER they’ve been elected will make the most sense. As this tale draws to an end within the next few days, the state of the union becomes murkier and murkier. These inconsistencies have the ability to overthrow the remnants of the democratic process instilled in the land of UBCO. Heed this cautionary tale of what has occurred and what could become, as the elections are soon to be done. With pencil and ballot you have a choice, to weep in sadness or exult and rejoice. Although it is presented as a fairy tale, the students of UBCO are actually faced with these problems in our Students’ Union election. The President of the UBCSUO is the campaign manager for the super slate, United for a Better Campus; the UBCSUO President hired his good friend to be the CRO; the CRO failed to make an appeals committee; in order for anyone to submit an appeal to the CRO they must pay a $50 dollar fee; campaign financials will not be reviewed until after voting has occurred (so any breaking of the rules will not be subject to penalties); and the slate name will appear beside the name of the candidate on the ballot. This is a complete manipulation of the democratic system, and those in positions of power are using the bylaws to their advantage. For our purposes, this story reads well as a fairy tale because there are little to no rules—when the odds are stacked in your favour, anything goes. But unlike fairy tales, I don’t have a happy ending for this story. Unfortunately for UBCO, there’s no dragon because there isn’t one person solely responsible for the nature of this election, there’s no princess because few women have thrown their hats in the race, and there’s no knight in shining armor to take a stand against these injustices. When we were kids it was never up to us to choose the ending of the fairy tale, but for once we have the chance to change the outlook of the kingdom. Go to candidate speeches and debates, and most importantly: vote on March 12th and 13th.

ARTS

Featured Artist: Sarah James| sarejames.format.com | Twitter: @sarejames | The Phoenix | March 9th 2015 out Sarah on Instagram and * Check Twitter as @sarejames.

ARTIST PROFILE: SARAH JAMES CREATES A UNIQUE DISCOURSE ON POP CULTURE

Lauren Marshall Contributor

preference for printmaking stems from a love of the artistic processes and effort involved in creating a final form. “With printmaking, there are so many different ways that you can manipulate their processes to get to the final product,” James says. Photography is a newer medium to James, one which she typically uses to photograph gallery spaces. “This medium is different in the fact that it’s instantaneous, but with Photoshop it can be manipulated in a similar way to printmaking.”

Raised in Toronto, Sarah James sought a change from the Ontario College of Art and Design’s (OCAD) downtown landscape when she applied to both UBC campuses. She is currently in her fourth year of a Visual Arts degree at UBCO, with a focus on printmaking and photography. Her

James’ ambitions include a career in curatorial work or art directing. She hopes to continue her academic education with an MA in Critical Curatorial Studies at UBC, USC, or OCAD. She is heavily involved in the Kelowna art scene, having membership with The Alternator Centre for Contemporary Art and the Kelowna Art Gallery,

Politically keen and unafraid of boundaries, Sarah James’ art crosses mediums to reach audiences beyond the gallery James uses photography, street art and printmaking to explore the oversexualization of women in media

LIP PRINTS AND BARBIE STENCILS ‘As if ’ UV Screenprint, 2014 ‘Miley’ & ‘Sarah’, Spraypaint Stencils, 2014 ‘Barbie’ Spraypaint Stencil, 2015 ‘Unacheivable’ Spraypaint Stencil, 2015 ‘Unacheivable Standards’ Spraypaint Stencil, 2015 Above: In process works and ‘Barbie Disorder’ Composite Print, 2015

“My use of text aims to [comment] on ways in which women are viewed, and the issues they struggle with when ... trying to achieve ‘perfection’ or ‘flawlessness’” SARAH JAMES

and is studying Art History as her minor, lending to her awareness of gendered tendencies of popular art and the media. The media’s portrayal of femininity and the consumerist abuse of beauty trends are the themes of James’ current work. These themes are inspired by artists such as Barbara Kruger, who uses bolded captions and pronouns in her work to display cultural constructions of power. “My use of text aims to do something similar by commenting on ways in which women are viewed, and the issues they struggle with when it comes to trying to achieve ‘perfection’ or ‘flawlessness,’” says James. To her, the cultural concept of perfection is epitomized in Mattel’s popular child’s toy, Barbie, whose body has been the subject of much criticism in the past 10 years.

James is also interested in underground mediums outside of the traditional gallery, taking inspiration from street artists like JR and Banksy. “JR states that the street is ‘the largest art gallery in the world,’ and this idea is why I have been interested in working with graffiti,” James says. “It’s a way my work can be seen outside of the gallery space and can be read in a way that is completely different to art on gallery walls.” This alternative medium speaks to James’ goal of portraying culture and beauty in non-traditional spaces, and challenges the high class pretensions associated with Western artwork. The ‘high’ culture of James’ political themes and the ‘low’ culture associated with street-art meet in James’ printmaking projects. James is currently working with wheat-pasted images and spray paint stencils, which create

ARTS

Featured Artist: Sarah James| sarejames.format.com | Twitter: @sarejames | The Phoenix | March 9th 2015 out Sarah on Instagram and * Check Twitter as @sarejames.

ARTIST PROFILE: SARAH JAMES CREATES A UNIQUE DISCOURSE ON POP CULTURE

Lauren Marshall Contributor

“My use of text aims to [comment] on ways in which women are viewed, and the issues they struggle with when ... trying to achieve ‘perfection’ or ‘flawlessness’” SARAH JAMES

March 9th 2015 | The Phoenix | arts@thephoenixnews.com | Arts Editor: Jeff Bulmer you like to be featured in * Would The Phoenix News? Contact arts@ thephoenixnews.com for more information on being a Phoenix Featured Artist!

you planning on attending the * Are Travelling World Community Film Festival this weekend? Tell us all about it!

Events March 12th Travelling World Community Film Festival

3 pm / ADM0026 BC’s largest film festival comes to UBCO for 5 screenings and discussion. Admission is free. First screening begins at 3 pm

March 13th Spoken Word on the Move

6:05 pm / Pulp Fiction Coffee House The CWCU ‘s March spoken word night features guest reade Corinna Chong.

MVP’s Beard & Mustache Contest, Comedy Show & Boxing Match

7 pm / FREE / Thistletown Boxing Club With a title that exciting, you know you’re in for quality. Boxing, beards, and comedy. You won’t want to miss this

Photos provided by Sarah James

images similar to street-art. “I’m using this style to express underlying social and political messages that are central to my work, focusing on Barbie and the issues she has created regarding her unrealistic proportions.” This critique of Barbie broadens into James’ exploration of eating disorders and the notion of sexualized celebrities being role models for young women. James herself cites that she had an awareness on the constraints the capitalistic media placed upon women’s bodies from a young age, and this is something she hopes her art will change. “It’s something that young women, including me, are constantly exposed to on a daily basis through TV, social media, magazines, and advertisements,” James says. “I want to challenge this and expose the corrupt system.”

“I was using [the imagery of tongues] to show how women and their particular body parts are overly sexualized through the media” SARAH JAMES

One such media celebrity that interests James is the infamous Miley Cyrus, whose raunchy performance at the 2013 Video Music Awards (and general change in public image) has provoked much controversy. James is interested in the eroticization of particular body parts, exemplified by Cyrus’ fetishized tongue. “I was using this imagery [tongues] to show how women and their particular body parts are overly sexualized through the media and other media outlets.” She depicts this in mini prints and a larger series of lips with large, chalkypink tongues sticking out. Keeping up to date on these bodily trends is a part of James’ unceasing creative process. Brainstorming and creation are daily tasks to James, who is meticulous about keeping track of her ideas. “I actually don’t leave home without having

a book to write in,” she says. “If I don’t, I know I will think of a great idea and forget it twenty minutes later.” She sees constant creation as a vital and challenging part of being an artist, which also requires time. “There are nights when I spend hours and hours in the studio working on my prints and stencils.” James is working on accumulating a large body of work for the Fine Arts graduate showcase, Shelf Life, taking place in April. She is also thinking beyond academia, and building a social media presence to form networks outside of the Okanagan.

March 21st Kelowna Fan Xpo

12 pm / $30 / Kelowna Community Theatre Kelowna’s second annual Comic-Con style event. Guests this year include animator Stephan Franck and Chubear Cosplay

Featured Musician: Icelandia| Soundcloud: soundcloud.com/icelandiaband |Facebook: facebook.com/icelandiaband | The Phoenix | March 9th, 2015

can get singles Magic and Paper Suns now, and stay * You up to date on all things Icelandia at icelandia.bandcamp.com

Magic - 2014

Paper Suns - 2015

Kinship Debut EP coming soon!

INSIDE THE UNDERGROUND: ICELANDIA You’ve been around with a lot of different bands and projects. Is there any one thing that drew you to 80s synth-pop in particular? I think I’m a little A.D.D. as far as my musical tastes [go]. I’ve had three pretty different projects in, you know, my musical life: a folk pop trio with Treelight Room; indie rock with Nuuka; and now, synth-pop with Icelandia. I think this one is unique in the sense that I’m heading it up myself, and I’m allowing myself to be versatile. There’s a little more freedom for me. Out of any of my projects, this feels the most natural for me. I’ve always loved alternative pop music—if that’s a thing! I know it’s a bit of an oxymoron, but I’m really committed to making the music fun and organic. Would you say the writing style is the same? Yeah. I think I’ll always be writing the fun “pop” stuff, but there’s an introverted and introspective element to it, and that just seems the most natural for me to write. I like to classify it as “danceable yet heartfelt.” That’s kind of like my branding. And it’s just a one-man band then? Sort of. As far as the writing process goes, it’s just me, and then I work with Andrew Judah, my producer. He’s extremely talented; it’s so great to work with him. He “gets it” [the creative process] too in the sense that he’s a songwriter, a performer, a producer, a composer—he’s all that. So, I can draw from different aspects of that and go back and forth with him on changing things or adding things during the creative process. On the tour though, I’m bringing along long-time friends like Norrie Henderson on guitar and synth. We’ve been playing music for eight or nine years, and we collaborate really well together. Scott [also a friend and a former bandmate] is also coming to help with videos and such. In the future, I would love to fill out the band and add more synth players and such, but for this tour we’ll be keeping it simple.

Canada-born, Greenland-raised: Anthony Martens is Icelandia Photo by S.J. Finlay

Justin Kroeker Web Editor Born in Canada but raised on the rugged, icy shores of Greenland, Anthony David Martens—now living in British Columbia—cut his teeth playing in melodic folk and indie rock bands before striking out on his own into the world of synth-pop. His new project, Icelandia, is teeming with catchy hooks, the rich sounds of the 80s, and lyrics which serve as an articulation of his past adventures. Martens embarks on his first overseas tour to Italy this March. Before he heads off, The Phoenix managed to sit down and chat with Martens about his music and the upcoming tour.

How did the name Icelandia come about? There’s two reasons for the choice of that name. I guess the first reason is that I’ve done a lot of travel, but I’ve never actually been to Iceland. It’s this sort of mysterious, elusive place to me that I’ve been able to draw inspiration from. And then the second reason is that it’s a little bit of an inside joke with myself, because I actually grew up in Greenland. And every single solitary person I meet who even vaguely knows me, and knows that about me, always gets that confused, like asking, “how was it growing up in Iceland?” You know? Every single time, I have to correct them. So, it’s that ironic element that I’m basing it on as well. And it wasn’t taken! [laughs] Is there anywhere else you’re planning on touring besides Italy? Not for this trip; this trip is very much about feeling things out. I’ve never toured overseas with my own project, so I’m kind of making it up as I go. Just for this first tour, we’re going to keep things simple. I would love to tour Asia though—that’s next on my list! Sounds great! Is there anything else we can expect from you in the near future? My plan is to finish the tour, then finish and release the EP, and then work on a full album. Edited for length. Read the full interview online at thephoenixnews.com!

Filbert Cartoons Anthony Labonté For more comics filbertcartoons.com

and

Contributor animations,

visit

Concerts March 10th In Flames

7 pm / $50 / LeVel Niteclub Legendary Swedish Deathmetal band In Flames makes their Kelowna debut alongside All That Remains and Wovenwar (featuring ex-As I Lay Dying members) Show is 19+

March 13th An Evening with WiL

8 pm / $20 / Minstrel Cafe & Bar Calgary musician WiL (also playing with Burton Cummings at the Kelowna Community Theatre on March 11th) makes a special appearance at the Minstrel Cafe & Bar.

Tiger Moon

8 pm / $10 / Gallery Vertigo Vernon Local alt-folk duo Tiger Moon perform with Vernon’s own Soulstice and Brett Wildeman.

March 14th Fatman Scoop

9:30 pm / $15 / LeVel Niteclub Famed hip-hop promoter Fatman Scoop DJs and hosts this Saturday at LeVel. Show is 19+

March 17th Wild Son

8 pm / $10 / Doc Willoughby’s Local heroes Wild Son play Doc Willoughby’s for St. Patrick’s Day. The chance to see Wild Son in Kelowna is truly once in a lifetime! Don’t miss out!

March 9th 2015 | The Phoenix | arts@thephoenixnews.com | Arts Editor: Jeff Bulmer

EVENTS

you hosting an event that you * Are would like to see featured in the

next issue? We want to hear about it! Email arts@thephoenixnews.com.

you been to a concert lately? * Have Send us your photos to visuals@ thephoenixnews.com.

March 10th & 12th: “I, too, am UBCO” photoshoots Tuesday 11:30 am - 3:00 pm EME Foyer Thursday 11:30 am - 3:00 pm UNC Food Court This Tuesday and Thursday, March 10th and 12th, Fern Helfand’s Creative Studies Photography students will be taking pictures of students in the EME Foyer and UNC for Helfand’s “I, too, am UBCO” campaign. “My goal is to give visibility and voice to all students on campus who might feel that … they are invisible or whose presence, interests, or feelings are under-represented on campus,” explained Helfand in an email interview. The project is based on Kimiko Matsuda-Lawrence’s 2014 “I, too, am Harvard” project and similar multimedia campaigns, which have highlighted diversity at major universities and colleges including McGill, Cambridge, and Oxford.

March 20th Becoming Home: The Welcoming Okanagan?

7 pm / Alternator Centre for Contemporary Art The latest in the AlterKnowledge Series brings in Kamilla Bahbahani and Taban Leggett to facilitate discussion into how the Okanagan can become a more welcoming, vibrant and supportive region.

The photos will be showcased on Tumblr, UBCO.tv, and featured as part of the Rule Out Racism Week Panel on March 17th. Helfand invites anyone interested to participate in “I, too, am UBCO.” “The opportunity [to participate in “I, too, am UBCO”] is for everyone, not just for those who feel they are not in the majority,” she says. “My aim is to celebrate the diversity of ALL of the members of our campus community and to get people to think about their part in the larger scheme of things, which is the multi-racial and multidenominational makeup of Contemporary Canada.”

March 17th Canadian Racism and its Complexities

11:30 am / UNC Ballroom Panel discussion on Canadian racism as part of Rule Out Racism Week. The panel will be made up of students, faculty, and a community member. Also in attendance will be new Associate Vice President of Equity and Inclusion, Sara-Jane Finlay

March 11th-15th: Travelling World Community film festival Tuesday 11:30 am - 3:00 pm EME Foyer Thursday 11:30 am - 3:00 pm UNC Food Court BC’s biggest documentary film festival features screenings at UBCO, OK College, and Ki-Low-Na Friendship Society The Travelling World Community film festival rolls into Kelowna March 11th-15th. This year the program for the film festival features an outstanding selection of over 35 social justice documentary films from around the world. The Travelling World Community Film Festival is known for the breadth of topics covered, as well as for the first class quality of the productions—these are films that are sure to educate, entertain, and inspire.

On March 12th, the festival will be at UBCO, screening Shameless Propaganda, an examination of documentary filmmaking; Haida Raid 2 & 3, animations taking on the issues of tankers on the northwest coast; and Marmato, a portrait of a Columbian mining town after the country opened up the industry to foreign investment. Admission to the festival is free of charge, with donations also being accepted for the Ki-Low-Na Friendship Centre and Inn from the Cold. For more information about the Travelling World Community Film Festival and the films being screened, you can go to worldfilmfestivalkelowna.net

March 13th: OK Magpie Chapbook Contest Submission Deadline UBCO student-led small press publisher OK Magpie returns this year for their second season, including an all-new issue of the publisher’s literary magazine, and a chapbook contest open to the public. “Chapbooks are short books of writing, most often poetry, printed in limited editions,” explains Jessica Bonney, this year’s editor-in-chief. “They are also a sort of art object ... made with nicer paper and more manual printing methods than you can do with commercial book printing, [they] can be really beautiful.” Additionally, Bonney hopes that the contest will foster a local creative writing community. “[A chapbook contest] is a great way to get submissions and create community aware-

ness and involvement,” she says. “Community is something that is, or should be, really important to creative writers.”

March 12th

Until March 13th, participants can send in 6-10 pages of poetry, along with a name, contact information, and a title for a chance to have their work printed in a limited edition run of fine-press chapbooks, complete with a release party. Meanwhile, runners-up will have select poems published in the upcoming edition of OK Magpie, to be released this April.

Critique with Marie Clements submission deadline

For more information on Ok Magpie, you can visit lakejournal.ca, as well as facebook.com/pages/Ok-Magpie

March 27th: Festfeed Launch March 11th Social Gaming Night

6 pm / ART 365 The Social Game Cafe hosts its first on-campus gaming night, aiming to bring people closer together by way of video games.

On March 27th, 2015 come experience ‘The Next Generation’ with Festfeed, a student led startup consisting of five UBCO students. This interdisciplinary group of students will debut their ‘mobile first’ application in the Fipke Auditorium at UBCO. Festfeed is a social network for events built from the ground up. The platform aims to connect people, allow event managers to create full fledge applications with ease, and encourage sponsors to interact and engage with users.

Festfeed has received enthusiastic support from the local business community in the Okanagan, the mentors and staff of Accelerate Okanagan, and extraordinary encouragement from the faculty and students of UBCO. The evening will consist of a keynote presentation beginning at 6 pm to reveal the Festfeed platform to the public for the first time ever. After an overview of the application and a live demo, the audience will be able to download the app onto their phone and begin an evening full of activities to showcase the possibilities of Festfeed.

Submit six double-spaced pages of poetry or prose to toby.wesenberg@ ubc.ca for a chance at a one-on-one critique session with UBCO writer-inresidence Marie Clements!

Interim Sports Editor: Cam Welch|sports@thephoenixnews.com | The Phoenix | March 9th, 2015

SPORTS

SEASONS IN REVIEW: HOW THE UBCO HEAT VARSITY TEAMS DID IN 2014/15

MSOC lock up 4th Pacific playoff spot & 7th overall rank

GRAPH: NUMBER OF WINS BY HEAT TEAMS

MSOC go 3-1 in first 4 matches in the new league Enzo Paal named a Canada West Star of Week

MSOC get back on track after losing 3

WSOC end UVic keeper Meaghan Storie’s month-long shutout streak

MVB’s 12-game losing streak begins

WSOC get their only win

WVB sweep defending champs, rise to national #3

WVB swept by UBC Van and fall from national #3 to #7

MVB sweep Regina Cougars for first wins of season

WVB begin 2-month win streak

WBB get 2nd win, play in overtime for 3rd weekend straight

Katy Klomps named a Star of the Week MSOC falls to defending national champs UBC T-birds in first round

MBB get 2nd win, Goodwin scores 24 MVB come within 4 points of beating national #8 Winnipeg

5 WINS

WBB and MBB get first wins

0 WINS SEP 6 &13 SEP 20

SEP 27

Women’s v-ball reaches #1 in Canada Men’s soccer makes playoffs in first season of university-league play Coach Semeniuk retires after 21 years Cam Welch Creative Director

For the Heat, this year was a mix of historic successes and the same old newteam blues. Women’s volleyball climbed to #1 in Canada, while men’s soccer made the playoffs in their CIS season, but both were taken down by our more experienced cousins over at UBC Van. Meanwhile, men’s volleyball and women’s hoops were unable to enter the playoff chase in tough conferences, and the rookie-heavy women’s soccer and men’s hoops teams were just trying to get used to university-level play.

OCT 3

Fall outdoor sports

OCT 10

The Heat women’s golf team finished 2nd overall at Provincials, while Carolyn Lee was also second overall for player finishes. Men’s team star Will Deck wrapped up a career in which he’s won 3 national championships. UBCO’s cross-country teams ended the regular season with the women ranked third and and the men fourth. The women were led by Michelle Blackburn, who both led her team and improved on her 2013 times in every race. Both teams slightly underachieved at the CCAA national championships though; the women finished 5th while the men ended up 7th (their best-ever finish). The women’s rugby team was dominant, winning all six games by a total of 128 points (192 to 64). The men also fared well, winning five of their six games against other university teams.

OCT 17

Men’s soccer

5-5-2 / 4th in div, 7th/14 overall MSOC jumped out to a 3-1 debut in Canada West, the first team in the league’s modern era to do so. During the middle of the season, though, the team suffered three consecutive losses while playing top teams UBC and UVic. But the Heat righted themselves and closed out the season going 2-1-2 before falling to their sister-campus rivals, the defending national champion UBC Thunderbirds, in the first round of the playoffs. Coach Zanatta credited his team’s desire to compete improved defense and their improved defense for this year’s surprise success. Despite their accomplishments, the team regretted leaving points on the table. Most of games were within one goal, and they dropped some winnable ones--in one game, UVic scored in the last minute.

OCT 24

OCT 31

Women’s soccer

1-7-4 / 5th in div, T12/16 overall WSOC’s Canada West debut went about as expected. Expected to come 6th in the division and 13th in Canada West, they ended the season 5th in the division and tied for 12th in CanWest. Although they didn’t surprise the way the men did, the slight improvement on expectations is encouraging for such a young team. UBCO featured nine new faces and lacked most of the veterans who guided them through success in the PACWEST league in recent seasons. First-year Courtney Hemmerling and captain Hayley Carlson led the team with two goals each. The Heat will again be faced with the challenge of replacing veteran production next year after they lose Carlson, keeper Christine Tallon (3 shutouts, 82 total saves), and shots-on-goal leader Kristen Dodds.

NOV 7

NOV 14

Men’s basketball

3-17 / 6th in div, 15th/17 overall Despite finishing the season with their worst record (3-17) since joining the CIS in 2011, the future is promising for UBCO’s men’s basketball team. The Heat were the youngest team in the conference, with only one player older than second year (3rd-year Mitch Goodwin). Coach Pete Guarasci felt the biggest factor this season was simply the physical size the other teams had on the Heat, and that the team’s goal will now be to bulk up (and just, y’know, age) in order to lessen that gap for next season. The team’s skilled forwards in particular will benefit from getting bigger. Signs of improvement were slow, but they were there. UBCO lost to playoffbound TRU in their first three matches by 29, 35, and 20, but solved the zone won by 10 in the teams’ final matchup.

Alberta vs Trinity in both national v-ball finals

Heat rugby at national 7s tournament

The Trinity Western Spartans, who defeated the UBCO in the Canada West playoffs, took the national championship, roaring back from 0-2 to defeat the Alberta Pandas in 5 sets. The Spartans and Pandas also met in the Canada West final, and the Spartans won then too, earning the #1 seed at Nationals. The Pandas, Spartans, and Heat were the only teams to hold the #1 national rank in the regular season, and finished with the same record, 19-5. In the men’s final, the teams were the same but the result was the opposite. Alberta won the MVB title for the 2nd straight year, defeating Trinity in 3 sets.

UBCO competed in Rugby Canada’s National University Sevens tournament in Langford BC on March 6th-7th, to take on a pool of 13 other teams. The men went 2-1 on opening day to earn a place in the quarterfinals, but had the misfortune of matching up against UVic. UVic defeated them 22-7 and relegated them to the consolation bracket, where they eventually lost to Humber to finish 8th. The Vikes went on the win the championship on their home turf, taking their 3rd title in the past 4 years. UBCO’s women were winless on Day 1 but won their final game the next day 38-14 over Queens.

March 9th 2015 | The Phoenix |sports@thephoenixnews.com | Interim Sports Editor: Cam Welch WVB upset by Cougars, lose #1 national rank and #1 playoff seed

WVB win 12th straight game, ranked #1 in Canada for first time

WVB finish 2014 as #2 in Canada after 8 straight wins Wuttunee leads Can West in hit %

WBB get 3rd win with 27 points off turnovers

WBB give up 100+ points to TRU in 2 consecutive losses

MBB get final win of season by beating playoffbound TRU

Berrios scores careerhigh 25 with 5 threes

WVB fall to Trinity Western and UBC in upsets, losing spot at Nationals

WVB defeat defending champ Bisons in first round

WBB lose 2 more to 15-1 Wolfpack, are out of playoff contention

Star of Week Jim Bell records 19 kills in only 3 sets, but win streak ends

MVB sweep Dinos for 6th straight win

WVB seeded 2nd in Canada but 3rd in West playoffs

15 WINS

MVB end season with 6 straight losses, finish 11th as predicted

WBB sweep UNBC as friends, fans, and family fill the stands for Heather Sememiuk’s farewell weekend

10 WINS

5 WINS

FLY WITH US THIS FINAL MONTH We’ve got three positions open and a month left of school. If you’ve got a bit of time, want to make some money, and you’re interested in pursuing journalism, photojournalism, marketing, or just want to be more involved on campus, then come join the team. Send a resume, cover letter / platform, and work sample to news@thephoenixnews.com.

SPORTS EDITOR NOV 28

JAN 9

Women’s basketball

6-18 / 4th in div, T12th/17 overall The Heat entered the season with playoff aspirations, and that looked to be a possibility after they started the season 3-4 (with one of those four losses coming in overtime). But they lost 10 of 11 after that start, ending their aspirations for a postseason spot in the newlyformed Explorer division. But they ended their season on a high note, though, with two wins on a weekend that was dedicated to outgoing head coach Heather Semeniuk, who is retiring after 21 seasons at the helm. Her all-time regular season record sits at just under 200 wins (198W, 182 L). In the PACWEST college conference she led the Heat to 12 consecutive playoffs, won the conference twice, and went to the national championship three times. Next year’s coach will be Lethbridge assistant Claire Meadows.

JAN 16

JAN 23

Men’s volleyball

6-18 / 11th/13 in Canada West It was a season of streaks for the MVB team. First, their infamous 12-game losing streak--a month and a half of games against national top-10 teams, which dug them into a pretty big hole to start the season. Next, their rally of six consecutive wins against lesser squads, which pushed them within striking distance of the conference’s final playoff spot. And finally, their six straight losses to close the season, which ended their playoff hopes and relegated them to 11th (of 13) in the conference. MVB isn’t a young team, but with most of their main guys in third year they still have a couple more chances to improve in the coming seasons. A playoff run, is made harder by the strength of the conference--the majority of the nation’s top-10 teams this regular season were in Can West.

JAN 30

FEB 7

FEB 14

Women’s volleyball

19-5 / 3rd/13 in Canada West (4th in playoffs) After a historic season, the Heat ended up 4 points short of the national tournament. To start the season, the Heat went toe-to-toe with top-ranked teams (and eventional national medalists) Alberta and Trinity Western, tying both. Then, after being swept by UBC Van on Halloween they came back with a vengeance, winning 13 straight games and rocketing to the #1 spot in the conference and the country. But a surprise loss to a weak team late in the season dropped UBCO down to 3rd playoff seed, losing them home-court advantage. Ranked 2nd in Canada going into the playoffs, the Heat swept 2014 Canadian champion Manitoba but lost to eventual 2015 champion Trinity and then UBC in the bronze game. Despite how things ended, the Heat women’s .792 regular-season winning percentage was the best ever posted by any of the volleyball teams added to Canada West in 21st century. Next season every player but one will be back, including All-Stars Katy Klomps and Katie Wuttunee.

Berrios makes All-Rookie team

Klomps an All-Canadian

Heat MBB point guard Aldrich Berrios was named to the Canada West All-Rookie team after starting every conference game for UBCO. The freshman out of Notre Dame Secondary averaged almost 35 minutes a game, the 4th-highest in the conference. His season averages stand at 12.4 points, 3.1 assists, 3.9 rebounds, 1.6 steals and 2.3 threes. With those numbers he led all rookies in scoring (nobody else avergaed double figures) and assists, and was top-10 in the conference in number of three-pointers made. With files & photo from UBCO Athletics

Longtime Heat WVB leader Katy Klomps was named a secondteam All-Canadian, making her officially one of the top 14 university players in the country. This season she led the conference in blocks per set and co-set a record for the most blocks in Canada West history in a single regular season. The Heat were 19-3 in the regular season with Klomps in the lineup.

We need a Sports Editor to oversee frequent coverage of the Heat varsity teams, as well as lifestyle sports, intramurals, fitness, local sports, and pro sports. Writing/ reporting skills and familiarity with sports / the Heat are the primary qualifications, but familiarity with photography, statistics, Adobe, social media, or WordPress are assets.

PHOTO EDITOR

We’re looking for a Photo Editor to gather the necessary photographs for The Phoenix’s print product, website, and social media. The ideal candidate will have knowledge of DSLR cameras (and own one), and be proficient in Adobe Photoshop. Skills in illustrations, video production, and other Adobe Creative Suites are not required, but would be an asset.

AD REP

We’re looking for an Ad Sales Manager to pursue new and existing ad contracts for out print and website platforms. Qualified candidates will have experience in sales, management, and marketing; be familiar with The Phoenix content and operations; and have pre-existing contacts within the Kelowna community as well as UBCO and the SU. This position comes with base salary plus commission.

Opinions Editor: Brittni MacKenzie-Dale|opinions@thephoenixnews.com | The Phoenix | March 9th 2015

OPINIONS

you going to see Zeds Dead this year or have you * Are arlready seen them somewhere? Tell us about it!

Photo from Creative Commons

ELECTRONIC MUSIC: A RANT FROM LOVE ZOMG—Zeds Dead just got announced for the end-of-the-year bash at UBCO. Kelsey Andersen - Contributor

UBCO students are slowly losing their minds, and I can see it all over my feed on Facebook. ZOMG! Zeds Dead just got announced for the end-of-theyear bash at the university. So many kids are ready to chew their faces off and proclaim that it was the best day of their life because of the limitless wub wub wubs that penetrated and flattened their ear hairs. Don’t get me wrong, I’m

all for electronic music both sober and partying into a face melting oblivion. “Electronic shows are a whole bunch of strangers (and soon to be friends) grooving together…and all being on the same page—the same vibes, man.“ If you’ve ever been to an electronic show or festival, there’s something astonishing and amazing about the event. A whole bunch of strangers (and soon to be friends) grooving together over typically lyric-less music and all being on the same page—the same vibes, man. Electronic music has a way of stringing together people from all walks of life and interests. You find out that the girl you thought was basic is

actually dope shit when she shows up to the Bonobo show. Or you find out that guy really isn’t a douchebag when he’s front and center while jamming to a 90s remix at the front of the Fractal Forest. During my four years at UBCO, I found it to be really clique-y. I hope that this show will bring people together in a non-judgmental environment where they can shake their booties and not have it be about a societal pressure to match Miley Cyrus’ desperation, but about shaking your ass because you want to instead Since the show will be amazing, it will be exceedingly easy to get carried away in the party and this is where I

hope that readers get a grip with what is going on with them and their friends. This includes the ones you just met on the dance floor and the ones you showed up with. Drugs can be great when regulated and taken responsibly. I would really hate for UBCO to have such a wicked artist coming and then an overwhelming amount of medical emergencies and situations happen, causing it to not happen again in upcoming years. I work in the events industry, specifically music. I’ve had to escort 100-pound, 18 year-old girls to medical attention because their resting heart rate was 130 bpm, pupils exploding and

puking. I’ve had to wipe tears from bros’ faces because they’re too fucked up and the music is causing their breathing to be stunted. As funny as it may sound, it’s actually pretty freaky. I just really want everyone to have a good time. When April 10th rolls on in, please just be aware of how many substances you choose consume, regulate if you’re mixing substances… and bring your best dance moves, suckers!

March 9th 2015| The Phoenix |opinions@thephoenixnews.com | Opinions Editor: Brittni MacKenzie-Dale

you a political science or philosophy major? Do you keep up with cur* Are rent affairs and world news and are dying to talk about them? The Phoenix would love to hear about your stance. Drop us a line: opinions@thephoenixnews.com

PUSHING EDUCATIONAL NORMS: AN INTERVIEW WITH PROFESSOR LEVI GAHMAN

Photo provided by Levi Gahman

Nicole Block Contributor This semester I have been taking GWST 110 (Gender, Race, Sexuality, and Power: Everyday Life) with Levi Gahman. This class promotes a new, different, and radical way of learning that I think is actually very effective. Levi has been teaching Human Geography and Gender and Women’s Studies for eight years, most recently at Okanagan College and UBCO. Levi was raised—along with his older brother and younger sister—in a trailer house by his working-class parents,

tion. Levi cites his mother and father’s wisdom as one of

racist, homophobic, and sexist comments can be made in

the driving forces for pursuing further education, in part

the hallway or even by a professor in the classroom. The

because of his father’s constant reminder: “Do your lessons,

products of the education system are not always positive.

boy: it’s the only way out.”

“Universities are concentrated sites of shame, anxiety, and

After graduating from a high school class with only 17

repression,” Levi laments. “Administrators don’t want to ad-

students, Levi went off to university. As an undergrad, he

mit it because they are too worried about retention rates

majored in Psychology and Geography. These years were

and tuition payments.”

pivotal for Levi in more ways than one. During his under-

In discussing solutions to university issues specifically

grad, Levi started becoming more political as a result of

and the education system as a whole, Levi offers a refresh-

volunteering for a sexual assault response team and organ-

ing, yet tangible solution. The fix? Discussing and recogniz-

izing a feminist collective promoting violence prevention.

ing dignity. His dream design of education would be one

During this time he also became interested in Geography

that is de-colonialized, feminist, queer, non-ableist, com-

and learning more about space, place, power, oppression

munity-driven, and place-based. “[These] are big goals,”

and injustice.

Levi admits. “But we have to aim high.”

After his undergrad, Levi moved to a college town named

Levi acknowledges that incorporating these new modes

Lawrence to complete an MA in Geography at the Univer-

of learning takes an open mind. All in all, different ways

sity of Kansas (KU). Upon finishing his MA, Levi moved

of promoting education are not necessarily matters of one

to Kelowna and completed a degree focusing on Gender

being better or worse (since that’s hierarchical, dualist

and Women’s Studies and Human Geography. During this

thinking at its finest); rather, they simply produce different

time, he spent half a year living with the (Indigenous Maya)

things. Levi makes sure to note that he is not suggesting

Zapatistas of Chiapas, Mexico where he was a human rights

that his way of teaching is “better,” but alternate. “Plus,” he

observer and student in their autonomous rebel school sys-

adds, “I basically stole it from bell hooks and the Zapatis-

tem. As a result of the sum of these experiences, he is now

tas.”

at UBCO teaching Gender and Women’s Studies. Now, Levi

What Levi is explicitly uncomfortable with is the way in

integrates engaged pedagogies, praxis-based education,

which so-called authority figures in the education system

and encourages students to learn for themselves and build

hold the dominant voice and opinion. Instead of an au-

collectives.

thority figure, he wants people to be accountable to their

Levi goes on to mention that the entire credibility of the

communities, to each other, to themselves, and the spirit

educational system is based on a self-perpetuating con-

of education. “My heart is set on fire by transforming the

struct; that is, one of supposed respect, creed, and high-

dominant social norms of education,” he says.

standing. He explains how this works, saying that: “[stu-

Personally, being a student in Levi’s GWST class has

dents and educators] are coerced to be competitive, have

shown me that he is not super rigid with attendance or as-

a set of professional credentials, and get an institution-

signments. Instead, he wants us to be accountable for our-

legitimated degree. The university system is capitalizing

selves and learn through discussion and reflection. The way

off this imposed reality, as well as the passions and desires

school has come to be is not a pleasant environment. Stu-

of students, and has become a system that scolds and cre-

dents are constantly stressed and consumed with anxiety to

dentializes students who have access to it, while neglecting

receive the best grade (an unfortunate way to learn). Three

those who don’t.”

months in the class, I have learnt so much about Neo-Lib-

near a small town in rural southeast Kansas (traditional

Although Levi states that there is no such thing as a

eralism, environmental racism, collective groups, inspiring

Osage territories). Living in rural Kansas meant Levi often

“safe” place in a white settler society, he does believe that

individuals, and the list goes on. I have been learning and

felt he was surrounded by intense racism, oppressive gender

universities have at least the potential to be a liberating

retaining information in a non-stressful environment and I

norms, and hetero-normative views. As he got older, Levi

place. Unfortunately, because power and oppressive rela-

must say: it is incredibly refreshing.

learned there were basically three ways out of the place he

tionships are present in everyday situations, anything can

was in: join the military, become a priest, or get an educa-

happen in a university classroom, despite its best efforts:

Anxiety, depression, nerves and low self-esteem… Brittini MacKenzie-Dale Opinions Editor

Levi Gahman is utilizing the skills he’s learned from both his life and the Zapatistas of Chiapas, Mexico. He’s extending these skills to UBCO students and revitalizing the way classrooms function. Levi mentioned engaged pedagogies and praxis-based education in his interview. Here are some explanations:

Engaged pedagogies:

Praxis based learning:

A classroom that uses engaged pedagogy, according to bell hooks*, is one in which the teacher aims to learn just as much from her students as he or she intends to teach. Cool, right? This type of teaching is centered on conversation and discussion (which is a breath of fresh air from the run-of-the-mill exam, exam, exam). In these classrooms, the role of the teacher is less dictator, and more facilitator-type: teachers attempt to create a safe space in which all students feel comfortable and confident.

Praxis is an experiential, community-based learning program that integrates theory and practice through student engagement in active, relevant fieldwork. * bell hook says that the lack of capitalization serves two functions. The first function is distinguish bell hooks from her grandmother Bell Hooks. The second function is to indicate the importance of the text and not the biography of the author.

Opinions Editor: Brittni MacKenzie-Dale|opinions@thephoenixnews.com | The Phoenix | March 9th 2015 there anything you would like * Isdiscussed in this section? Send us

you agree or disagree with the points made * Do about drugs and addiction? We want to hear about

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DRUGS DON’T CONTRIBUTE AS MUCH TO ADDICTION AS YOU MIGHT THINK Dr. Carl Hart explains what he’s learned about drugs, addiction, and the myths surrounding them: “Well, I come from the [Miami] hood. And so, when we think about these communities that we care about, the communities that have been so-called devastated by drugs of abuse, I believed that narrative for a long time. In fact, I’ve been studying drugs for about 23 years; for about 20 of those years, I believed that drugs were the problems in the community. But when I started to look more carefully, started looking at the evidence more carefully, it became clear to me that drugs weren’t the problem. The problem was poverty, drug policy, lack of jobs—a wide range of things. And drugs were just one sort of component that didn’t contribute as much as we had said they have.” East Hastings Vancouver Streets, Photo by Jennifer, Flickr

ADDICTION MYTHS AND DRUG HYSTERIA Drug addicts often get unfairly stigmatized in our society. Prominent neuroscientists are realizing that a reductionist view of drug addiction is oversimplifying the matter. Brodie MacKenzie-Dale - Contributor

“What is addiction, really? It is a sign, a signal, a symptom of distress. It is a language that tells us about a plight that must be understood.” – Alice Miller For a moment imagine what your life would look like if you had been born to parents who lived in the East Hastings area of Vancouver, BC. Imagine the poverty, the severe stress, and the plethora of mental health problems that come along with these excruciat-

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ing living conditions. In his book In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts, addictions expert Dr. Gabor Maté explains how the environment helps shape the structure of the brain, especially in early childhood when the majority of the brain undergoes rapid growth. This makes young East Hastings residents prime candidates for severe mental health problems. If we continue to imagine ourselves in their situation, we should recognize that we would not be like them, we would be them. Drug addiction is rampant on East Hastings Street and it is not simply because drugs are available. These people have suffered immensely, and for them the suffering began long before their addiction and will continue to persist throughout their lives. In order to understand addiction we must understand its roots. The claim that drugs cause addiction is largely based off of experiments that involve rats. Rats will self-administer

cocaine until sickness and death when they are provided with the option of regular water or cocaine-laden water. The problem with these experiments is that the rats are isolated, highly stressed, and placed in inhumane and unnatural living conditions. The rats will become addicted, but the underlying cause may be due to their abhorrent living conditions—not solely the drug itself. Psychologist Bruce K. Alexander recognized this, and so he built what is known as Rat Park. In Rat Park all of the residents’ social and psychological needs were met; they had sexually receptive mates and a large, comfortable, and stimulating environment. When these rats had the opportunity to administer morphine-laden water they would dabble at times, but Alexander could produce nothing that appeared like drug addiction. These findings help put human drug addiction into perspective: approximately 85% of

people who use drugs do not become addicted. The idea that drugs cause addiction is a misconception that results in hysteria and bad drug policy, which further marginalizes those who suffer from drug addiction and ignores the social and mental health problems that cause their illness. I hope that it is clear that I am not advocating drug use nor am I suggesting that there are no negative health consequences for prolonged drug use. What I am suggesting is that drug hysteria is not supported by evidence; furthermore, current drug laws are misguided and unethical. How can we justify harassing and imprisoning the disenfranchised and the mentally ill, causing further damage? Have they not already suffered enough? In my past, I was a part of the 85% of drug users who did not become addicted. My life was not destroyed by drugs. It is hard to imagine the turn my life may have taken if I was arrested for

Go to http://www.stuartmcmillen.com/ and type in “rat park” for a visual representation. possession. Luckily for me, I was born white and middle-class; I do not match the profile. Others, mostly of different backgrounds, are not so fortunate and will face unjustifiable and harsh penalties. The enemies for these people are the drug laws, not the drugs themselves. In order to help those who suffer from drug addiction, we must understand the root cause of their addiction. We must help to mend the wounds that drive them to addiction, whether it be past trauma, various mental health issues, or unbearable social conditions. Scapegoating drugs is, at best, an oversimplification of complex issues. In doing this we create a fictional enemy and a convenient one. It is not the drugs, but us, who must own the responsibility.

Philosophy professor Dan Ryder apparently lost at a game of in-class poker… this loss earned everyone an additional score on their quiz. Aw, yeah! So does this mean there’s even more incentive to recycle?

March 9th 2015| The Phoenix |opinions@thephoenixnews.com | Opinions Editor: Brittni MacKenzie-Dale you have an unpopular opinion * Do that you want to share? Tweet at us @ubcophoenix

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LOCAL CAFÉS THAT TASTE BETTER THAN TIMMYS: Pulp Fiction: * Get their matcha latte with their signature art. You won’t be disappointed. (Timmys is suspiciously lacking in the latte art department.) Giobean: * They use all manual machines and were voted Best Coffee in Kelowna in 2013. If you think Italy when you think of coffee, check this one out: they’re Italianowned. Bliss Bakery: * Grab one of their seasonal drinks, like our Life Editor Maranda’s fav: the chia eggnog latte. Marmalade Cat Café: * They offer a wonderful variation of the typical caramal macchiato: the maple macchiato, which speaks to the café’s Canadian roots. Also, they have a varied food menu that pairs nicely with any of their loose-leaf teas. Image from Creative Commons

THE CULT OF TIMMYS IS WEIRD AND SLIGHTLY EMBARRASSING FOR CANADA We all know Tim Hortons as the place to get a cheap coffee and some Timbits. But is it really all it’s cracked up to be? Alex Sadlowski – Current Affairs Editor

Tim Hortons has become something of a Canadian cultural icon and it’s not that hard to determine why. It seems like Canadians have always been victim to a bit of an identity crisis. We’re such a diverse country both geographically and culturally that it’s hard to establish a concrete national identity beyond “we’re above the U.S., but colder, smaller in population, and more polite.” In the search for a means of national representation to flaunt proudly, Tim Hortons is one of the few candidates. It’s on the sparse list of experiences that one can find anywhere across Canada, but pretty much nowhere

else (with only about 900 locations outside of Canada compared to Canada’s approximate 4500). So it’s pretty safe to say that Canadians like to brag about their most prolific fast-food chain. But the fact that most people have to actually travel to Canada to find one has led to a bizarre hype machine that raises foreign expectations to the point where they’re expecting a paradise of donuts and coffee. I can see this leading to a ton of let-down travelers who come to realize the legendary Tim Hortons—a beacon of comfort and enjoyment across Canada—is just…a coffee shop. Don’t get me wrong, I like Tim Hortons. It’s... fine. The food is good for what it is, and I enjoy the occasional double-double. But this obsession with Tim Hortons and the need to sing its praises as a quintessential Canadian experience is just weird. I would never claim that it’s a “must

This doesn’t seem like a difficult requirement to meet… but we are talking uni students.

Um. Can we have your friends too, please?

And yeah, a Tim Hortons coffee with two creams and two sugars is pretty darn good. But you know what else is good? Literally any coffee with two creams and two sugars.

visit” for someone traveling through Canada for the first time. If you’re on the road and kind of hungry, sure. Go check it out. But don’t expect much beyond some pretty good food, a wide selection of donuts, and coffee that can be described as mediocre at best. I realize that I might sound like a heretic at this point, but consider the following: of the variety of options on the Tim Hortons menu, the one item that establishes its unique identity in the massive fast food industry (besides its Canadian origins) is the double-double. I have personally heard the double-double described as “nectar of the gods” more than once. And yeah, a Tim Hortons coffee with two creams and two sugars is pretty darn good. But you know what else is good? Literally any coffee with two creams and two sugars. That is a ridiculous amount of highoctane garbage you’re putting in your drink to make it palatable, and

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at that point the quality of the coffee itself is irrelevant. I can stomach McDonald’s coffee better than I can Timmy’s if it’s taken black. I realize this is a matter of personal preference. But subjectivity aside, consider how we’re representing our country. Do we really want the crux of our identity as a nation to revolve around food and hot drinks from a “pretty okay” Canadian restaurant chain that was recently bought out by a “pretty okay” American one? When Dunkin’ Donuts claims that America runs on them, and Coca-Cola tries to establish itself as an essential cornerstone of old-time America, the vast majority of Americans realize it’s a cleverly constructed marketing schtick. So when Tim Hortons does the exact same thing, why do we buy it?