Anti-Oppression Workship at OPIRG Infoshop

Today from 3-4pm there will be an anti-oppression workship at the OPIRG-Brock Infoshop downtown. Everyone is invited! Those already involved in social justice initiatives will have the opportunity to reflect on the impact of their work and the relationships that are formed throughout the work, and those who aren't already involved can get tips on how to get started. Looking forward to seeing everyone there!

CUPE 1281 Seeking a Service Coordinator

A small grassroots Union with multiple workplaces around the province is seeking to hire a fulltime,
thirty five hours a week, representative to act as the Local’s main contact for servicing of over forty
workplaces and two hundred and fifty member. The employment contract is set to begin January 21,
2013.

How is this a public interest? - Fed Up!

Access to healthy food is important to everyone but it's not always easily available. People - students especially, may not always have the time, energy or means to provide themselves with a proper nutritious meal. Fed Up! was started to combat that by supplying students with free vegan lunches. In addition to free healthy food, the program also provides a positive space for discussion of a range of topics from food politics to the daily stress of student life. Conversation while enjoying a meal is an event which for some only takes place with friends or family, altering this to include new friends and other students is an excellent way to build and maintain a strong sense of community. Taking the stress out of preparing a healthy meal combined with the opportunities of social interaction can have a profound positive impact on the overall mental health of an individual. Fed Up! has ambitions to continue performing these actions next semester and into the foreseeable future, we hope to see you all there!

Circuses

Circuses

Above is a video showing a circus trainer abusing several animals. This kind of treatment is not rare in the circus industry. Animals in the circus industry are repeatedly abused in the training process in several ways.

Free C.P.U. presents Just Us Nerds - v1.0 Launch Party!

Saturday, November 24th, 2012 marked the first event for Free C.P.U. (computers, people and unity) everything from a documentary to free vegan food were available to the public from 4-10pm. 

The evening started off with an install fest, vegan food made by Food Not Bombs Niagara, accompanied by buns and donuts from Rise Above. Steal This Film was also shown, which is a documentary taking the accounts of the prominent players in the Swedish piracy (copyright infringement) culture: The Pirate Bay, Piratbyran (Piracy Bureau), and The Pirate Party. The evening ended with gaming, LAN party & file sharing of various free games as well as software available on the Ubuntu Software Center.

E-waste donations were taken and will be put to good use in future projects. Also, there are 8 free Linux computer systems available at the downtown infoshop located at 21 King Street, so please inquire if you are interested in receiving one, a few are already spoken for, better hurry up!

If interested in volunteering or utilizing this program please call 905-688-5550 ext. 4430 / 905-327-6134 or email FreeCPU@OPIRGBrock.org


From the open hands and minds of geeks who want to make a difference!

OPIRG Library

The library at the OPIRG Brock office is currently being updated and reorganized to make access to resources easier. If there are any books or videos you would like to see in the library please email library@OPIRGBrock.org

Fed Up! needs volunteers.

Fed Up! is looking for volunteers to assist with cooking, food serving and, clean-up every Tuesday and Thursday between 12-2 pm at the OPIRG-Brock office.

If you would like to volunteer please email info@OPIRGBrock.org.  

Organizational Development Coordinator Full-Time Position - Apply by Nov 30

Update - Deadline Extended to Nov 30th at Noon.
To see the full job posting click the Organizational Development Coordinator - Full Job Posting.

The Organizational Development Coordinator is responsible for the overall operations of the organization and should manage these responsibilities in accordance with OPIRG’s Mission, Mandate, and Strategic Plan. Primary responsibilities include training and supporting a volunteer board of directors; financial management, including coordination of bookkeeping, budget setting, and audit; policy development; management of any administrative duties associated with student placements; and the technical administration  of OPIRG-Brock’s library and resource centre. Additionally, this position is to coordinate the continuing  development of the organization. This may include strategic and long-term planning and visioning, project  valuation, and operational improvements. Shared duties between staff are delineated by the Board of  directors through the strategic planning process and include programming, Action Group support, volunteer  recruitment and orientation, participation in the OPIRG Provincial Network, the hiring, support, and management of contract and grant staff, and the general maintenance of the OPIRG Office
and organizational phone/email systems.

Hours: 35 hours/week August 1st - April 30th | 30 hours/week May 1 - July 31st
Job Classification: Permanent Staff Unionized with CUPE local 1281
Probationary period: 6 months
Latest start date: January 7th, 2013 (applicants can begin sooner if possible)

How to Apply

Applicants must provide a resume with 3 references and a cover letter by email to hiring@OPIRGBrock.org. The deadline for submissions is 12:00 p.m., Friday November 23rd 30th, 2012.

This Friday - Outrage! A creative writing and performance workshop exploring gender-based violence

 Outrage!  A creative writing and performance workshop exploring gender-based violence lead by Evalyn Parry

Friday, Nov. 16, 2012 from 5:30-7:30 p.m.

MyStage, 15 King St, downtown St. Catharines

Contact the Box Office to register at 905-688-5550 x3257 or Arts.BrockU.ca

Week 16 - 19 - Dry run for Just Us Nerds, new system @ OPIRG Brock campus & 24 port network switch!

Four weeks have passed since the last blog, we've been busy in the meantime organizing, planning and building, building not only computers, but community as well. We had a dry run for an event that was held on Saturday November 10th, which was at the downtown infoshop on 21 King street. Six Dell GX270's were setup with Xubuntu, networked, and various programs from the Ubuntu Software Centre were installed for anyone to try out. This was a great turn out, from 2 volunteers to 5, which is a great start for the social justice and tech community.

A new system was also built from scratch at the OPIRG Brock campus, which will be more then enough computing power for what it's needed. Windows had to be installed with a usb stick, that had to be setup through Linux, which was memorable, to say the least.

Also a 24 port network hub was installed at the OPIRG infoshop, ready to be used for the Just Us Nerds event on November 24th, and any other future OPIRG events. Hope to see you out one of these Tuesdays from 5-8pm!

Community Garden - Need Volutneers - Wednesday 4pm

The community garden at Brock needs volunteers to help build a shed and plant garlic tomorrow at 4pm. 

If you have screw drivers or an electric drill, please bring them.

To volunteer please connect with omarefe05@gmail.com

Fed Up 1st serving Tuesday November 13th

Fed up with high food prices? In a pickle with an empty wallet? Use your noodle and come get some free pasta at the OPIRG Office! Fed Up will be serving a FREE (yes, I said free!) delicious pasta dish on Tuesday, November 13th from 12 - 2pm. The Office is located on the ground floor of the Student Alumni Centre. Come by and make peas with your stomach!

Introducing our new part-time staff members - Tasha & Bill

Hi! I'm Tasha, one of the new part-time student staff members here at OPIRG-Brock. I'll be working mainly on the Fed Up project, but I'll also be lending a hand anywhere else I can help around the office. Animal and human rights are my biggest passions, and I'm really excited to be working on a project that addresses both!

You can reach met at Tasha@OPIRGBrock.org

Bill and Tasha Reorganizing our Library

Hi! My name is bill and I am a new office assistant at OPIRG Brock. I will primarily be working on Fed Up a project to provide free meals to students while advocating for ethical and affordable food. I don't know what else to say but I'm sure I will think of something amazing while sleeping and forget it by the time i wake up. 

You can reach met at Bill@OPIRGBrock.org  

What is Public Interest - for Students?

There are many ways the struggle for public interests can be understood. The very idea of public interest is especially important when corporate, government, or institutional interests often tower over the everyday well-being of each and every person. Students are especially vulnerable to being taken advantage of.

So what are public interests for students?

• High quality, affordable education
• Affordable and healthy food
• Maintaining a sense of safety on campus and off, one without violence
• A positive, non-discriminatory, anti-oppressive atmosphere
• Great health care, both physical and mental
• Fulfilling job opportunities
• Open access to course materials

This list could go on for ever. Students, people, everyone deserves to be happy, healthy, and fulfilled. It is unjust students are made to struggle so hard for an education. Fighting for the public interest on a campus, means fighting for the rights of all the folks who are here at Brock working towards a better life, towards a better community. It means fighting for more scholarships, for a reduction in tuition costs. It means fighting for creative commons text books you could share and not need to take out a loan for. It means student run food services providing affordable healthy food instead of unfair corporate contracts that keep meals at the Marketplace between $10-15!

Fighting for public interests isn't an abstract concept. It means easier, better lives for Brock students. It means a more fulfilling time at University and a brighter future.  

All power to the people. 

To get involved with The Ontario Public Interest Research Group (OPIRG) at Brock, email info@OPIRGBrock.org

Films at Brock - Canadian Labour International Film Festival

The Niagara Regional Labour Council sponsors showing of two CLIFF (Canadian Labour International Film Festival) films at Brock. Both films are played on Wednesday, November 21.
Living as Brothers (90 min) in AS 216 at 5:00 pm
The Philosopher Kings (70 min) in Thistle 248 at 6:30 pm

You can see the description either on the posters or on the CLIFF website.

Evalyn Parry's SPIN

Evalyn Parry's SPIN is a unique blend of music, monologue and technology all centered around the Bicycle.

For Immediate Release: October 29, 2012, St. Catharines, Ontario

Award-winning songwriter, poet and ironic social commentator Evalyn Parry will treat audiences to a unique blend of music, monologue and technology with her production of SPIN at the Centre for the Arts, Brock University on Saturday, Nov. 17 at 7:30 p.m. in the David S. Howes Theatre.

In SPIN, Evalyn Parry takes her audience on an uncommon theatrical and musical journey. Created and performed by Parry and directed by Ruth Madoc-Jones, this tour-de-force performance celebrates the Bicycle as muse, musical instrument and agent of social change. Inspired in part by the incredible true tale of Annie Londonderry – the first woman to ride around the world on a bicycle in 1894 – Parry spins a web of stories which travel from 19th century women’s emancipation to 21st century consumer culture, peeling back layers of history to ultimately reveal a profoundly contemporary and personal heart to her performance.


Parry’s “co-star” is a vintage bicycle: suspended in a mechanic’s stand on stage and connected to a variety of electronic effects pedals, the bike is played – from fenders to spokes to bells – by percussionist Brad Hart, conjuring an astonishing and unique sonic accompaniment to Parry’s songs and monologues. Projections by award-winning designer Beth Kates add a captivating visual layer to SPIN, which sold out the run of its premiere in Toronto in 2011.  SPIN is an enchanting, engaging adventure of entertainment and activism.

"Part theatre, part musical gig, part spoken word poetry and part documentary … whatever it is, it is brilliant.” (Catherine Porter, Toronto Star )

 SPIN is part of the Centre’s 2012-13 Hot Ticket Professional Entertainment Season. To purchase tickets for Evalyn Parry’s SPIN, please contact the Centre for Arts Box Office at 905-688-5550 x3257, toll free on 1-866-617-3257 or online at Arts.BrockU.ca. Discounted tickets are available for college, university ($20) and high school students ($5). All ticket holders are invited to a free post-show artist chat. Contact the Box Office for more information.

Evalyn Parry will also be giving a FREE community workshop on Friday, Nov. 16 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at MyStage, 15 King Street St. Catharines.
Outrage!  A creative writing and performance workshop exploring gender-based violence lead. Please see attached flyer for more information. Contact the Box Office to register.

-30-

Rules for Radicals and Peaceable Kingdom - Library Highlight

Highlights from OPIRG-Brock's Library &Alternative Resource Centre.

Rules for Radicals

Rules for Radicals: A Pragmatic Primer for Realistic Radicals is the last book written by community organizer Saul D. Alinsky, published in 1971 shortly before his death. In it, Alinsky describes his theory and methods of organizing to the current generation of young activists, largely drawing upon his own experiences. As he writes in the prologue:

"The Prince was written by Machiavelli for the Haves on how to hold power. Rules for Radicals is written for the Have-Nots on how to take it away." - Saul Alinsky

Peaceable Kingdom

A riveting story of transformation and healing, PEACEABLE KINGDOM: THE JOURNEY HOME explores the awakening conscience of several people who grew up in traditional farming culture and who have now come to question the basic assumptions of their way of life.

Presented through a woven tapestry of memories, music, and breathtaking accounts of life-altering moments, the film provides insight into the farmers' sometimes amazing connections with the animals under their care, while also making clear the complex web of social, psychological and economic forces that have led them to their present dilemma.



OPIRG-Brock's Library & Resource Centre have been at Brock since 1988, providing educational and academic support for public interest projects as needed. If you are looking for a resource you can't seem to find check out our library in room 204 of the Student Alumni Centre. If we don't have what you are looking for there is a good chance we can order it for you.

Halloween Bike Ride - Critical Mass

*21 King Street is the rain location. The bike ride will probably still happen even with rain.

Join Kind Cycle for a critical mass bike ride this Halloween (kind of like a parade, but on bikes, and no corporate sponsorship).

When: Wednesday October 31, we ride at 9pm
Where: 21 King Street (OPIRG Infoshop)
Why: To celebrate what bikes mean to us and our community. Bikes mean freedom. They are economically accessible, healthy, and sustainable.  We live in a car culture where cyclists are neglected and often put in danger. We ride for a better world. We ride for fun. We ride together!

Pedals to the people! Everyone welcome on any human powered vehicle. This event will be dry (don't drink and bike) and family friendly.

Free Documentary: The Antics Roadshow

When: Tuesday October 30, 8pm

Where: 21 King Street (OPIRG Downtown)

What: Free Documentary: The Antics Roadshow

Titled as a pun on the Antiques Roadshow, street artist and activist Banksy explores the history of behaving badly in public, from anarchists and activists to attention seeking eccentrics. The Antics Roadshow examines the stories behind some of the most audacious stunts of recent times and what motivates the perpetrators, from mindless boredom to heartfelt political beliefs. Featuring many moments of humour and beauty, this one will bring a smile to your face.

HR Coordinator Casual Part-Time Position - Apply by Nov 5th.

Summary of Position
The HR Coordinator works to manage staff-board relations regarding the implementation of board visioning through staff task management. Further tasks include the administration, management, and training as needed for staffing related issues. This position work closely with the Organizational Development Coordinator and the Promotions and Public Relations Coordinator and reports to the Board of Directors.

Job Duties and Responsibilities
Monthly Reporting to Board of Directors

Bi-Weekly Check-ins with staff regarding work priorities

Other HR duties as required/requested

Job Details
This position is to provided an honorarium amount of around $200 per month. The latest start date is Nov 12th,2012. The initial contract is for 12 months with possibility of renewal.

Application Process
Submit a resume and references to Hiring@OPIRGBrock.org by Nov 5th at 4pm.

Office Assistant Positions (2) - Apply by Nov. 4th

Summary of Position
Office Assistants help with the day to day tasks of running OPIRG-Brock. They work closely with the Organizational Development Coordinator and the Promotions and Public Relations Coordinator.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Maintaining the office/downtown space
• Library maintence
• Help with programming and projects

Job Details
This position is to provided an honorarium amount to be agreed on at time of hiring and should be around $100-$200 per week. The start date is Nov 5th,2012.

Application Process
Submit a resume and references to Hiring@OPIRGBrock.org by Nov 2cd at 4pm.

Week 15 - Volunteer Orientation, OS install, Cleanup, Remote Mac

This week we welcomed a new volunteer, who made some more headway on our stack of slimline dells install Xubuntu on the fourth one.

We spent some time cleaning up our chunk of the infoshop in preparation for OPIRG's AGM and elections for the Board of Directors. Which everyone should come out too! This Friday, October 19th from 5pm onwards.

Not having tried it before, one of the volunteers learned how to remotely access an older mac we had in the shop. We're hoping we can change this mac into a server.

Week 9-14 - Event Planning, Upgrades, Recruitment, Software testing

We missed a few posts, but we've still been meeting. This post will be a brief recap of Free CPU's work between with starting the last week of August to the second week of October.

We

• Planned "Just Us Nerds" Event - For November 6th.
• 4-10 at 21 King
• Showcase physical accessibility software and hardware
• GNU and Ubuntu Install-Fest
• LAN Party
• Share, Swap, and Burn - Electronics, Software, Media Files
• Open Source Gaming
• Documentary + Shorts something about piracy, free software, and hacker culture 
• Short Workshops -
• internet security
• haters on the internet - trolls, homophobes, and sexists 
• Electronics Waste Collection + Recycling Drop off
• Upgraded our workspace, we now have shelf!
• Tried Cinnamon as a replacement for Unity 3D - it is great.
• Tried Glipper - clip board management - awesome.
• Installed xubuntu 12.04 on 3 of the older slimline dells
• fixed OPIRG internet
• we received 1000 internet points! 
• Our thoughts on windows, its still broken.
• updated big blue to 12.04
• we also got another member!
• made the switch from freecpu.atbrock.org to freecpu.opirgbrock.org and set up the FreeCPU@OPIRGBrock.org

You Are Invited!

Celebrating an inspiring year of student & community activism, OPIRG-BROCK invites you to participate in our Annual General Meeting. Join us for an evening featuring reports from staff, volunteers & board members, and elections for the 2012-2013 Board of Directors !
**Voting is open only to OPIRG Members.**Food and Refreshments will be provided

Introducing - FAST - Food Affordability for Students Today

FAST - Food Affordability for Students Today is an action group dedicated to making food on campus more affordable, because students debt is already a problem. Healthy and delicious food should always be affordable and accessible.

Get involved by emailing - FoodMovement@OPIRGBrock.org

Join the Board of Directors at OPIRG

Celebrating an inspiring year of student & community activism, OPIRG-Brock invites you to participate in our Annual General Meeting. Join us for an evening featuring reports from staff, volunteers & board members, constitutional amendments and elections for the 2012-2013 Board of Directors & a review of our audit. 

The AGM is held on October 19 at 5 p.m. at 21 King St. and is open to the public but only members (full-time undergraduate students and community members) can vote in elections. At this meeting the board of directors is elected, the budget is set for the next year and other decisions are taken about the future of OPIRG. 

To run for the 2012-2013 Board of Directors, hand deliver a Board Nomination Package to the OPIRG-Brock office - located at 500 Glenridge Ave in the Student AlumniBuilding, Room 204. You could also drop off the nomination package at our downtown Info shop at 21 King St. 

Nomination packages are available here  and for pick-up in office and downtown on September 21. Closing date to submit them will be September 28 before 5 p.m. An all -candidates meeting will take place on the 28 shortly after nominations close. 

E-mail elections@opirgbrock.org for more information. 

The OPIRG office is located in Room 204, Student Alumni Building at 500 Glenridge Ave. (Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 10 a.m. - 2p.m.) 906-688-5555 ext. 4430/3499 info@opirgbrock.org 

Documentary & Discussion - SlutWalks and Modern Feminism

SlutWalk has become a mini-movement that started in Toronto in response to a police officer who claimed that women should stop dressing like “sluts” to avoid assault. Since then it has spread to other cities around the world. While the members of this movement feel that reclaiming the word slut is empowering, some feminists have spoken critically of this movement, claiming that embracing the word slut is problematic. In this episode of The Agenda, Steve Paiken invites various guests to debate this issue. We'll discuss our own perspectives during our discussion session.

Join us at 21 King St., St. Catharines every Tuesday @ 8 PM for a controversial documentary, monthly discussions and vegan pizza & donuts. 

Week 8 / Day 8 - Customer laptop Xubuntu install, system out-sourcing and E-waste donations?

August 23rd marked roughly the 8th week of Free C.P.U. (Computers, People, and Unity) out of the O.P.I.R.G.-Brock Info-shop. An Acer laptop came into the shop with a case of Windows XP, which was resolved with a fresh install of Xbuntu. A system which was worked on few weeks ago... the mysterious ASUS! Everything was fine other then the random black screen of nothingness once it was turned on. A through a discussion and some nifty thinking that we should try removing the extra cards in the PCI slots... (those white long pieces of plastic that look like Lego...in case you've sadly seen inside a computer) Anyhow, once those were removed, voila... it worked perfectly. So now we have another working system to be given or sold at a very reasonable price.

Yaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay, for PCI slots.... not!

 

A thoughtful discussion about where the finished Linux systems could possibly go and it came down to; local programs which help people going through a positive transition in their lives, or something related to education or employment? That will be decided in the near future. Also, options were confirmed for spare parts and such to be donated from E-waste sites (electronic waste) so if you need a keyboard, mouse... or even a computer, one persons junk system can legitimately be anothers digital playground!

Communities Unite-Take Back the Nigh

Take Back the Night is an internationally held march and rally intended as a protest and direct action against rape and other forms of sexual violence. 

The Niagara Regional Sexual Assault Centre (CARSA) has been organizing 

TakeBack the Night in St. Catharines for over 30 years now, empowering those 

to take a stand and break the silence that so many of us share. 


We will march to take back the night to end violence in our community-will you?

The candlelight vigil and march will take place Thurs, Sept. 20 @ 6:30 p.m. at 

the St. Catharines Public Library, James St., St. Catharines

There will also be a food drive for the YWCA collecting non-perishables, 

bedding, towels, wash clothes and other toiletries.

Niagara Action for Animals' Community Potluck Series

OPIRG welcomes Niagara Action for Animals' monthly potluck series starting Sept. 14 at 7 p.m. at the Unitarian Congregation of Niagara, 223 Church Street (Beside Delta Bingo), St. Catharines. There will also be a presentation from a group of parents discussing issues they have encountered as veggie parents.

The potlucks encourage people to come enjoy delicious vegan foods, meet new people and hear interesting speakers. All you have to do is bring a vegan dish that typically can serve 8-10 people, and perhaps bring a friend! If you don't know what to bring or make, non-alcoholic beverages such as flavoured soy milk, juice, etc. will do just fine. 

Food donations are also accepted and cycled through a vegan food serving program with Food Not Bombs such as non-perishable food items like Pasta, Beans, Veggie Stock, etc. 

More details here

Hope to see you there!

Urban Forestry in Niagara

Climate Action Niagara Series: The Urban Forest

Please join members of Climate Action Niagara for what promises to be another interesting and informative series of discussions on environmental issues, this time related to urban forestry within the region of Niagara.  All events will reference climate impact on tree species.

Heritage Trees

Edith George has been hailed across Canada and beyond as a ‘champion for heritage trees’.  An advisor to the Ontario Urban Forestry Council, Edith is recognized by Nature Canada, Inside Toronto, Canadian Trees and numerous heritage councils.  Edith provides a presentation on the preservation of heritage trees in Niagara, and will introduce Niagara’s Heritage Tree Hunt.  Discussion to follow.  

When: Tuesday, September 11 – 7:00 pm

Where: St Catharines Public Library (Mills Room)

Cost: Free

Part Time Position Available - Chief Returning Officer for OPIRG-Brock

The Returning Officer is responsible for ensuring that a fair and impartial

election is conducted for the Board of Directors of OPIRG-Brock.

This position will report to the Elections Committee of OPIRG-Brock. 

To apply email Elections@OPIRGBrock.org

~3-5hrs per week and 6 hours on the day of our Annual General Meeting

Work period September 4th, 2012 through October 15, 2012 with a Honorarium - $500

Role – Key Activities

• Execute all plans and preparations for an enumeration and election for the Annual General Meeting
• Maintain a thorough, up-to-date awareness of the requirements of all relevant policies and by-laws
• Review enumeration and election practices and procedures as requested by the Elections Committee
• Manage and control financial material for election 
• Communicate information to the public, candidates, volunteers, and out-going OPIRG-Brock Board

Eligibility / Restrictions

Conditions of Appointment/Employment

No person who has been appointed or is acting as a returning officer may

(a) be a current or out-going member of the 2012 OPIRG-Brock Board of Directors

(b) be running for a position on the OPIRG-Brock Board of Directors for 2012-2013 term

Qualifications and Competencies

• Organized events at the local or community level while displaying excellent time management skills
• Proven management skills in a team-based environment
• Developed planning and organizational skills through work/volunteer involvement
• Excelled at a task or employment while under pressure and with clear deadlines
• Interest in and connection with their community or municipality
• Outstanding interpersonal skills
• Effective communication skills that employ a variety of media
• Diplomacy, good judgment, reliability, and discretion in handling confidential information
• Flexibility:
• Availability to manage electoral events, sometimes on short notice
• Ability to learn new skills
•  Adaptability to changing timelines
• Proficiency with computers and technology:
• Competency with Windows and Internet Explorer
• Competency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook)

Additional Qualifications that may be used in candidate selection:

• Management and/or administrative experience with electoral processes

• Awareness of the mandate, role and responsibilities of OPIRG-Brock

Closing Date - August 26th, 2012 4pm

Send resume and brief cover letter to Elections@OPIRGBrock.org

Week 7 / Day 7 - Group workstation upgrade & another satisfied customer!

Today marked the seventh week of Free C.P.U. (Computers, People, and Unity) out of the O.P.I.R.G.-Brock Info-shop. There was discussion and a list made to do with purchases for a new workstation, as well as storage. Also, a customer came in with 2 systems that needed maintenance, one system was a laptop which needed Windows removed and Xbuntu installed, the other system will more then likely get another flavour of Linux installed in the coming week, possibly ArtistXwhich is a full multimedia production studio version of Linux.

Big blue was having some problems, a diagnostic of the optical drives, motherboard and hard drive were done, the issue was actually a couple of faulty PCI cards installed which sporadically halted the system on start up, Big blue will now be used in the Info-shop temporarily until more systems are available for the public.

Also, the five Dell systems which were recently donated are soon to be available to the public with Xubuntu installed on them (including a keyboard & mouse, monitor not included) free of charge, so come by and keep your eyes open, Free C.P.U. is constantly upgrading!

Week 6 - Hard Drive Diagnostic, RAM + Ubuntu upgrade, minor drop in for repairs

Week 6  -

We had to test a faulty Hard Drive, installed more RAM + upgraded from xUbuntu to Ubuntu, and helped someone who dropped in with their desktop to repair a broken fan and wifi card.

New Community Garden in the Heart of Downtown St Catharines

Tomatoes from Food not Bombs garden plot - 2012

OPIRG's been given the wonderful opportunity to start a small community garden in the courtyard of 21 King Street in the heart of downtown St Catharines.
We have about 50 square feet to work with to grow some food for Food Not Bombs and demonstrate to that even a little space can grow quite a bit of food.
We're asking around to see if anyone might be able to help us populate it with some seedlings so its ready to engage new students in September.


If you want to help plant the garden over the next couple of weeks email OPIRG@AtBrock.org

If you have any ideas on what we should transplant in for this year, comment below!

The intersections between human and animals

Grass roots organizing is fundamental to services that directly affect peoples' lives by addressing the most basic needs in our communities. Organizations that do not rely on government funding typically spend time fundraising rather then doing the work they are skilled at doing, so we should support efforts to keep important initiatives going!  

Community Animal Allies of Niagara provides services that help animals as well as humans. They are driven by the philosophy that kindness to animals helps build a better world for us all. This fall C.A.A.N is participating in the Ride for Refuge, a non-competitive bicycling fundraiser whose goal is $4,000 for the Pet Retention program they run. 

C.A.A.N's Pet Retention program assists people who are temporarily unable to care for their pets when the most vulnerable members of our community cannot, due to homelessness, sickness or injury. Providing an alternative to the city pound is important for the well being of animals and their human friends. 

To get involved by donating or riding, e-mail caan-catmobile@hotmail.com or phone 289-362-3344 asking for Barb. You can also look up C.A.A.N on http://rideforrefuge.org/

 

Day 5 - Blown Capacitors, Xbuntu Updates and Spare parts oh my!

Today marked the fifth week of Free C.P.U. (Computers, People, and Unity) out of the O.P.I.R.G.-Brock Infoshop. The Vault, a system which was not starting up, the reason being a blown capacitor on the motherboard, which will possibly be replaced in the near future. For the meantime, the hard drive, ram and such from the Vault, will be used for spare parts, and a system for collecting useable parts was discussed, as well as purchasing organizational materials.

Xbuntu updates were finished on the broken Windows computer, the Ubutnu Start Script will be run and installed next week, adding a second computer to the computer repository.
 

Day 4 - XUbuntu Install, RAM Upgrades, Space Defragging

Today marked the forth week of Free CPU (Computers, People, and Unity) out of the OPIRG-Brock Infoshop. Today we improved some of the systems we worked on in the past couple of weeks. We brought xubuntu to a broken windows computer giving it new life,  added 512MB RAM to big blue for  a bigger hop to our first  HP desktop. Finally we defragmentted our work space (read: cleaned up) to help work flow better.

Posted from the first computer Free CPU fixed, in the infoshop waiting for a new home.

Day 3 - Inventory, Donations, and SMS Updates

This was the third weekly collaboration of Free CPU (Computers, People, and Unity).  We took inventory (barcode style), did some organizing of parts and tools, and set up a basic system for SMS/TXT updates for OPIRG Events (sign up here).


We also got a wonderful donation from the John of The Over the Hill Gang of 5 systems to fix up and get out to the community for no cost. We'd like to send our thanks for the generous donations of these Dell desktop computers. They will be greatly appreciated and used well.

From some passionate nerds at Free CPU, working out of the OPIRG-Brock Infoshop.

Day 2 - Machine 2 in the works & planning!

This was the second weekly collaboration Free CPU (Computers, People, and Unity) met. As of last week, we've fixed up one machine (which is ready to go) and another is being worked on. A discussion was held concerning a "work bench" which will more then likely be collapsible (similar to an ironing board) a 15" LCD monitor attached to the wall above, as well as a motherboard so that components (video, network cards, and RAM can be tested) Also, the need for donations of computers, and parts were addressed. 

The Machine - Mysterious ASUS

ASUS P4B266-SE, Intel Pentium IV, 1.6 GHz, 768 DDR 400MHz RAM, 80GB, CD RW

Problem(s) ->

System booted up -> keyboard error

Reason for problem -> PS2 and USB ports were not functioning

Solution -> Steps to Solve

Flash the BIOS, rebooted the system, issue was solved

Other Changes to System

One of the network cards were faulty, tested by re-seating card then reinstalling driver, still had issues. Card was put in electronics recycling bin. Next collaboration, newest version of Linux Ubuntu will be installed on Mysterious ASUS system, as well as Ubutnu Start Script - a wonderful script that adds extra repositories. Please click above link for listing, or look at previous post: Day 1 - Free CPU boots up!

Day 1 - Free CPU boots up!

This was the first day Free CPU (Computers, People, and Unity) met. We fixed up one machine and set up live webcam for the shop (public broadcasted google+ hangout via webcam). Decided on the software and OS that goes out with machines. Finally we talked about the trajectory we'd like to see the project go in and made our first appearance on the internet.

The Machine - Big Blue

HP Pavilion A620N, AMD Athlon XP 3200+, 512 DDR 400Mhz, 160GB, DVD  RW, CD RW

Problem(s) - 

Wouldn't boot -> blinking underscore

Reason for problem -> corrupt bios settings + optical drive faulty drive

Solution -> Steps to Solve

Reset bios to factory defaults, remove faulty optical drive.

Other Changes to System

Installed Ubuntu 10.04, and

Ubutnu Start Script - a wonderful script that adds extra repositories: Ubuntu restricted extras, Medibuntu, Getdeb, Dropbox, and install from repository softwares like The GIMP, Pidgin, WINE, Chromium browser, Gnome Do, Guake, VLC media player, Mplayer, SMplayer, Thunderbird, Dropbox, Codecs..and more. This script actually available just for only Ubuntu 10.04 lucid Lynx

Tuesday,April 24
Jeffery Smith: Author of “Seeds of Deception,” 7-9pm
Yerich Auditorium, Niagara College, NOTL
Limited Seating: Suggested donation $10

Explosive Expose documents significant health dangers of genetically modified (GM) foods, intense industry influence & political corruption. Hailed as the best book on the topic, many believe the revelations in this book can topple an industry.

Sunday, April 22 2012

Raise The Rates
Food Not Bombs
Robertson Hall, Niagara Folk Arts Multicultural Centre, 85 Church Street

Come join us for:

Free Food (Vegan Friendly)
Activism Workshops
A screening of “Raise the Rates” a film by Neil Cavalier and Lisa Schofield
Eat. Learn. Fight Poverty.
All are welcome.

Organized by Food Not Bombs Niagara, CUPE 4207, Ontario Coalition Against Poverty, and OPIRG Brock.

Tuesday April 17 2012

Documentary Night, 8pm
H2Oil
OPIRG InfoShop,21 King St

A documentary about Canada’s tar sands, and their impact on fresh water. It shows how the tar sands have led to the depletion and contamination of fresh water in Alberta, and caused serious health and financial problems for the nearby communities. This Canadian made documentary features animation sequences by Oscar nominated animator James Braithwaite, and a soundtrack composed by members of Thee Silver Mt Zion Orchestra.
(Duration: 73 minutes)

All documentary screenings are FREE and everyone is welcome. Vegan donuts and pizza will be sold.

Food Not Bombs Weekly Volunteer Opportunities

AIDS Niagara is organizing a Pink Potluck Picnic at Centennial Park April 11th for the Day of Pink. The Day of Pink is an International Day against homophobia, transphobia and bullying and people are encouraged to wear pink to show their support.   Everyone is welcome!!

OPIRG sends out weekly events newsletters, if you’d like to join our mailing list send an email to: opirg@atbrock.org with the subject line “newsletter”.

Mach 31st, 7pm
OPIRG InfoSHop, 21 King St

OPRIG’s second annual night with the lights out.

Our new info shop is looking better than ever! Come and help us celebrate all the hard work of our generous volunteers AND earth hour!

Joining us will be musical acts:

Omar Shabbar

Dave Allen

Cassie Sukkel

Randi Townsend &

Le Stack

Were turning all the lights out and unplugging the instruments on the night of the 31st, come enjoy some great music and food!

Swap It

Come on out to this great event!

March 16 & 17 2012

Vagina Monologues
Feminist Action Collective & OPIRG present The Vagina Monologues 2012

The Vagina Monologues is a series of solo and group monologue performances by women that address a variety of women’s social issues such as rape, pregnancy, female genital mutilation, menstruation and much more.

Proceeds: Niagara Region Sexual Assault Centre & Mama Si Mama

D.I.Y craft vendors will be present, as well as Kind Cycle who will be raffling off a bike each night !

IMPORTANT! Two performances:

March 16th, doors open at 6pm, show starts at 7pm

March 17th, doors open at 1pm, show starts at 2pm

Tickets are $10 in advance and $12 at the door and can be purchased here:
- Brock University OPIRG office. Tue-Fri from 10-4pm
-OPIRG InfoShop, 21 King St. Mon-Wed from 2-8pm
-Niagara Sexual Assault Centre: 9-4:30pm ( 43 church st st Catharine’s. Suit 505)

Thursday March 15 2012

Congo Night,6:45pm to 9:00pm
Hosted by: MAMA SiMAMA
Brock University: Dr. Charles Sankey Chambers (located in Mac Chown A block)

Mama SiMama (MASI) Brock chapter will be hosting it’s FIRST annual Congo night. Congo night is an evening dedicated on bringing the Congolese culture to the Brock community using Education, and culture. What can you expect on Congo night?!

 A presentation on the Congo, a summary of the work that MASI has been doing over the years, Guest speaker Dawn Penner EdD (Cand) speaking on her work experience in Eastern Congo, and best of all delicious homemade Congolese food and appetizers.
 
This event is open to the public, and there is no admission fee. We will be taking donations and selling Mama SiMama T-shirts as part of our fundraising initiatives to fund our projects in Goma.

Wednesday March 14

Niagara Animal Defense League - Launch Party!, 9-11pm
Rise Above Café,  120 Saint Paul St.

Come join us for the launch of Niagara Animal Defense League! Welcome the newest kid to the block!

Music, videos, tables, 50/50 and cool hangouts! More details to come!

Eric Smith
http://ericsmith.bandcamp.com/

Jaimie Godard
http://www.myspace.com/jaimiegodard

$5-10 sliding scale.  All ages.

Wednesday March 14 2012

God Loves Pavement: Two Brown Authors Hit The Road 7:30-9pm
Brock University, Rm: Thistle 24
Vivek Shraya is a Toronto based multimedia artist whose projects include multiple records, short films and a collection of short stories entitled God Loves Hair which was a Lambda Literary Award finalist.

Farzana Doctor is a Toronto-based novelist. Her first novel, Stealing Nasreen, recived critical acclaim upon its release in 2007. Her second book, Six Metres of Pavement, was named a Top Ten Book of 2011 by NOW Magazine and won a Ranbow Award.

March 13
Documentary Night, 8pm
BBC Dispatches: Undercover In Tibet
OPIRG InfoShop,21 King St

As Tibetan protesters take to the streets in the biggest and most bloody challenge to Chinese rule in nearly 20 years, Dispatches reports on the hidden reality of life under Chinese occupation after spending three months undercover. To make this film, Tibetan exile Tash Despa returns to his homeland, and finds the nomadic way of life being forcefully wiped out.
He sees for himself the impact of the enormous military and police presence in the region, and the hunger and hardship being endured by many Tibetans, and hears warnings of the uprising taking place across the provinces now.
(Duration: 48 minutes)

All documentary screenings are FREE and everyone is welcome. Vegan donuts and pizza will be sold.

Interrogating Olympic effects

“Interrogating Olympic effects:
Policing, security, and low-income young people in Vancouver”, 10 am - 12 pm
A Talk by Dr. Jacqueline Kennelly
(Assistant Professor, Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Carleton University)
Brock University, Rm: 600F Plaza

 RSVP: As breakfast and brunch items will be provided, we’d greatly
 appreciate your RSVP. Please write to Lauren at lcorman@brocku.ca to

Open-Ended art show kicks off tonight at OPIRG’s InfoShop. The art will be up until March 20th so come on over and check it out!

weeptowaterthetrees:

The Vegan Police and Niagara Animal Defense League are going on a Sanctuary Tour in March. First stop is Cedar Row Farm Sanctuary in London, On on March 10th. Like their page, check back here for updates and, if you can, please go to their site and send a donation.

March 16th and 17th- get your tickets now!

March 16th @ 7pm
Vagina Monologues
Location: Robertson Hall Folk Art Centre, 85 Church St.
               St. Catharines

The Vagina Monologues is a series of solo and group monologue performances by women that address a variety of women’s social issues such as rape, pregnancy, female genital mutilation, menstruation and much more.

Support women from the Brock University and wider Niagara …community as they celebration voice, strength, and public education on March 16th at Robertson Hall!

Proceeds: Niagara Region Sexual Assault Center & Mama Si Mama

Tickets are $10 and can be purchased here:
- Brock University OPIRG office. Tue-Fri from 10-4pm
-OPIRG InfoShop, 21 King St. Mon-Wed from 2-8pm