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MARY WARD PLANET
volume 21 || issue 3 || summer edition 2016
Clubs | CHIMERA | The Music Man
tableof of contents contents table
cover
farewell/awards
TABLE of
CONTENTS 04
05 07
11
15 Sports Wrap-Up Europe's Finest: The EURO 2016 Contenders Brain Games Take it to the Wicket
WORLD ISSUES
LIFE
COMMUNITY
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Empathy Gap Bring Back the Bees Judging Jian Thirst for Change
Real Life Lessons Power of Self-Reflection Perfecting Your Portfolio Getting Mandatory Forty Toronto Scoops Exhale the Stress
Community Wrap-Up Skills Canada Think Pink, Don't Sink United in New York Music Man Chimera Ward Takes on Italy Don;t Swear Over Student Debt Signing Out
18
19 WACT
22
CREATIVE SPACES
Le grande histoire du Petite Prince Les vacances d'ete, en francais!
Roaring for Zootopia A Battle to Behold Box Office Books Experience At An Expense Nintendo Conquers the App Store Instagram or Insta-Cure?
Media Arts / Photography May I Stay in May? Limerick Tears of Grads Spot the Difference Horoscopes
EDITORIAL
LE PETIT PLANETE
SPORTS
COVER PAGE AIKEN CHAU COLOURED PAGES BIANCA GOMBA LAYOUT DESIGNERS allegra fiorino - pgs. 14, 17, 19, 20 bianca gomba - pgs. 3, 12, 13 donqarlo bernardino - pg. 20 nimmy ayekun - pg. 19 yanelle bardhan-mendonca - pg. 7 julia d’silva - pg. 16 andrea nijmeh - pg. 14, 23 kieona george - pg. 15, 17 aiken chau - pgs. 1, 24 john velasco - pg. 18 joyce giolagon - pgs. 6, 10, 11, 15, 16 adrienne dacoco - pgs. 8, 9, 22, 23 madeleine macisaac-sun - pgs. 4, 5 kayleen dicuangco - pgs. 2, 6, 7, 21
All content © 2015-2016 Mary Ward Catholic Secondary School. All rights reserved. Reproduction of this newspaper, in part of whole, is prohibited without the approval of the Planet executive members. The Mary Ward Planet is the official student newspaper of Mary Ward C.S.S. All members of the Mary Ward community may voluntarily contribute to the Planet. Everyone exhibits professionalism and respects one another in all exchanges while keeping Christian values and practices. All submitted articles, layouts, and photography are subject to moderation. Material submitted is subject to approval by the Executive, staff moderators, and administration. All material must positively support the ideas and spirit of Mary Ward Catholic Secondary School. Mary Ward Catholic Secondary School is a self-directed learning centre located at 3200 Kennedy Road that was founded in 1985. It became a member of the CCSDL (Canadian Coalition of Self-Directed Learning) in 1995. VOLUME 21 / ISSUE 3 mwplanet 02
table of contents
farewell/awards farewell/awards
editorial
FAREWELL FROM EXEC Being the big cheese for the Planet after three years has been an almost overwhelming ordeal. There’s been drama, mix-ups, typos and just about everything in between. But above all of the late nights and stressful mornings are the people and the publication that have made all of this worthwhile. My executive teamates have made my last year at the Planet a memorable and treasured experience. The issues we’ve published have been some of the best too date (the Toronto Star agrees with me), and the memories I’ve forged will be cherished for a lifetime. Thank you, and goodbye.
Being too scared to join the Planet in grade nine was a big regret. But finally taking a chance to become the art editor in grade ten made up for it! To be a part of this amazing newspaper for three years has helped shape me into the person I am today. The different teams I got to work with made me realize how much I love working with others, especially people with the same passion! Thank you to my fellow exec for a great year, to our readers and contributors, and Mrs. Powell, woop woop! Remember to follow holymolyart on Instagram. <3 JOY.
I owe much of my journalistic aspirations to the Planet. And Carrie Bradshaw from Sex and the City. Being on the exec since grade 9 has shown me that great writing can come from anywhere. I continue to be amazed by our covers, and the fact that the paper goes out despite jam sessions being mostly movies and pizza. Thank you Planet team and Mrs. Powell for an excellent senior year. Enjoy this year’s last issue! <3
Having the chance to be the Creative Spaces Editor for the Mary Ward Planet this year is one of the many things that has made my four years at Ward so great. The team puts a lot of hard work and dedication into the paper and it definitely shows. Thank you to Mrs. Powell, the lovely Planet team, and the MW community for making this experience such a memorable one! <3
- Allegra Fiorino
- Bianca Gomba
- Kieona George
-Kayleen Dicuangco
TORONTO STAR AWARDS 2016 By Adrienne Dacoco and Joyce Giolagon
Every year the Mary Ward Planet executives work tirelessly to enter the school newspaper into the prestigious Toronto Star High School Newspaper Awards. The Toronto Star hosts the event in order to honour exceptional student journalism, with winners and runner ups selected from hundreds of submissions. In April, the Mary Ward Planet executive team dedicated a week to organizing and submitting articles, comics, illustrations, layouts and photographs to enter into the 21 categories offered. All of this time and effort payed off as the Mary Ward Planet was the recipient of 10 different Toronto Star High School Newspaper Awards.
On May 26, the newspaper staff attended the awards ceremony at the Vaughan Press Centre to participate in an all-day celebration and receive their awards. The students were taken on the tour around the Star printing plant; a tour that was especially meaningful as it will be the last before the plant closes at the end of June. After the tour, guest speaker Lauren Pelly - a reporter at the Toronto Star - spoke about her passion in journalism, sharing a story about the importance of “giving people a voice.” Congratulations to the following winners for their passion, desire, integrity, and a strong work ethic! Comics Runner-up: Kayleen Dicuangco Editorial Writing 1st Place: Mary Ward Planet Exec. & Allegra Fiorino
Illustration 1st Place: Bianca Gomba Layout and Design, Page Runner-up: Bianca Gomba Layout and Design, Special Feature Page – Electronic Newspaper Runner-up: Bea Serdon Opinion Writing Runner-up: Allegra Fiorino Photography – Feature 1st Place: Patrick Blick Sports Writing – Column Runner-up: Bea Serdon & Mary-Anne Buerano Sports Writing – Feature Runner-up: Yanelle Bardhan-Mendonca Best Newspaper – Over 15 Staff Runner-up: Mary Ward Planet
PHOTOS BY NINOSHKA PAIS
VOLUME 21 / ISSUE 3 mwplanet 03
farewell/awards
editorial editorial
world issues
SHOULD I GET EXTRA CREDIT FOR EXTRACURRICULARS? One could say that a running gag at Mary Ward is for a student to say: “Okay, but can I get a unit for (insert action here)?” While some dismiss this phrase as a simple joke, there is no denying that many students at this school feel a certain reluctance to doing something that does not award them with academic credit. That “something” can range from helping a teacher after class, to attending field trip, or even
very precious to a high school student. After all, there is always homework to complete as well as commitments made outside of school, such as a parttime job or a volunteer position. As such, it may seem natural and even fair to receive extra credit for time spent in a club.
how I behave.” Connections are forged, and memories are made. Anika Peng, leader of OKOF, states “The experience of working with the different leaders, and being able to create so many different activities for the community, that’s not something you could find anywhere else.”
“The experience of working with the different leaders, and being able to create so many different activities for the community, that’s not something you could find anywhere else.”
Although the involvement in a club also looks great on a resume, it is beneficial to learn how to give up one’s time without expecting something back. This is how the “real world” works. If a student plans to go to university after high school, this is an especially valuable lesson. In university, getting involved in the community is of paramount importance, and benefits one’s experience immensely. However, no university student expects to be rewarded for this.
PHOTO BY VANESSA LUK
joining a club. The question is: should students be getting extra credit for extracurriculars? Clubs are without a doubt essential to the Mary Ward community and are, in collaboration with teachers, run by students. Some clubs enrich the Mary Ward experience in obvious ways: The
This assumption presents itself as especially logical at a school like Mary Ward, where everything is measured in time. Units are supposed to take five to eight hours to complete and it is recommended in the agenda that a unit be handed in every day. This means one unit for each of a student’s courses should be submitted in a two-
“You get a sense of responsibility, not just to other people but the cause” Angel Foundation runs the breakfast club, the yearbook committee pulls together a fantastic yearbook, and the school newspaper team produces three glorious issues of the Mary Ward Planet per year. Some are more subtle: GSA provides a safe space for students, and the Pen and Paper Club nurtures students’ creativity. Others are more famed for their acts of charity, such as OKOF or Free the Children. These clubs are only the tip of the iceberg; Mary Ward is home to a plethora of different clubs, committees, and teams. Clubs require the dedication, time, and energy of students in order to function as they should. On the surface, this may not seem like much but the reality is that all three of those factors are VOLUME 21 / ISSUE 3 mwplanet 04
PHOTO BY MARY LYNN ARTURI
week cycle. A quick look at a math or science unit will tell someone how long the activities are supposed to take. It is also not unusual to seek credit for something done outside of school – an English Quest unit may be awarded if one were to see Macbeth or King Lear performed. For a student, the lines begin to blur all too easily, and this measurement of time may bleed into their extracurricular activities. Hence, why one might believe they deserve extra credit from clubs. However, it is important to note
PHOTO BY PATRICK BLICK
that this does not happen at other secondary schools. There are no Quest units at Albert Campbell or Francis Libermann, and as a result, none of their students seek extra credit for involvement in clubs simply because it is not possible. Mary Ward is one of the very few individualized study schools in the country – by design, its students are commonly an exception to many rules. In order to determine if Mary Ward students should be getting extra credit from extracurriculars, one should look at the very nature of clubs. Clubs are meant to enrich and benefit the community. When a student joins a club with a view such as ‘what do I gain from this?’, it is contrary to the very essence of what clubs are meant to be. This selfish (rather than selfless) approach takes away from the benefit of the community, peers, and the school – and closes one’s mind to the other, less obvious benefits of joining clubs.
“...even though joining a club may not sound like a big thing, it takes a lot of courage to join a club.” Clubs are a valuable learning tool. For example, joining the yearbook committee will lend you experience in computer programs such as Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator. They hone leadership and collaboration skills, and one often makes great friends while working in clubs. Christian Lim, CEO of Greenquest, says “You get a sense of responsibility, not just to other people but the cause - I’m more cautious about what I do because I feel that people are focusing on me. It changes
Viewing one’s life through a pair of “Mary Ward coloured-glasses” is more than likely to land them in a miserable place. This two-dimensional thinking oversimplifies one’s high school experience, and promotes a self-centred way of thinking. In reality, many students benefit immensely from their involvement in clubs in much more abstract ways and they enjoy their time while doing it. Samantha Kuo, SAC President, offers this advice to students: “I think you should join a club; you’re only going to be in high school once. You have to start somewhere – even though joining a club may not sound like a big thing, it takes a lot of courage to join a club. It’s a start.” The leaders of GreenQuest, DECA, GSA, Je Dis Jeudi, Free the Children, Photo Club, and the Angel Foundation all agree on one thing: the time spent is well worth it. Consider joining a club next year; just because extra credit is not being offered does not mean they are not worth the time.
PHOTO BY CHRISTOPHER ISKANDER
editorial
world issues world issues
world issues
BRING BACK THE BEES
By Veronica Iskander
Anyone who has gone to the grocery store lately has probably noticed something a little odd about boxes of Honey Nut Cheerios. Their spokesperson, Buzz the bee, is nowhere to be found. In response to the impending bee extinction, General Mills (the company that produces the cereal) has decided to show a blank space on the boxes in place of their beloved mascot to demonstrate not only what the cereal boxes look like without Buzz the bee, but also what the world may look and feel like without bees.
Honey bees are the only insect that produce food that can be eaten by humans. The process begins with bees working to pollinate flowers in order to create nectar, so they can produce honey. This pollination helps the plant in its growth to produce fruit. The fact of the matter is, a third of all fruits and vegetables are produced through the pollination of honey bees. Without honey bees, these plants cannot be pollinated, and humanity would have to find alternative ways to grow apples, oranges, almonds, coffee, and many other commonplace foodstuffs. Due to the increased amount of pesticides in crops, bees have been bringing infected pollen back from contaminated flowers to their hives.
This not only kills the bees by the colony -- it also means that they are spreading the contaminated pollen as they move from flower to flower. Many studies have been releasing information to the public about the impending honey bee extinction and how difficult it is to live without them. Specialist Marla Spivak created a TED talk to speak about the bees based on her knowledge as an entomologist and bee specialist. Many organizations are rallying to help the bees and save their population. But what can the individual do to help? Well, one can order their free package of wildflower seeds and plant them.
PHOTO BY THELIP.COM
Wildflowers are bright and colourful plants that attract bees to pollinate them and require no pesticides. This will not only promote a healthier environment but substantially improve the conditions of the bee population. Visit bringbackthebees.ca to find out more information, order your free package of wildflower seeds, and help save some bees!
THE EMPATHY GAP By Andrea Nijmeh When terrorist attacks hit Brussels on March 22nd, in which at least 34 people died and another 198 were injured, international media shone its spotlight on the tragedy – and rightly so. However, similar to the aftermath of the Paris attacks last year, the coverage raised an uncomfortable question about which events North American media chooses to investigate. When the facts are observed, international tragedies involving White Europeans receive far more coverage than stories about people from other, less westernized parts of the world. In March alone, there have been two separate terrorist attacks in Turkey. In February, terrorist group Boko Haram brutally attacked a village in Nigeria killing at least 65 people and injuring more than 130. While those attacks were covered by major international outlets, many publications did not dedicate in-depth stories to these events in the way they have about the attacks in Brussels or Paris. Facebook decided to implement its ‘Safety Check’ feature for Paris and Brussels, something that has never been done for an event that was not a natural disaster. All over social media, profile pictures were immediately overlaid by colours of the French flag. Social media users wondered why
the news did not inspire Facebook to launch a ‘Safety Check’ option for the grieving citizens of Beirut following the attack in their nation. Nor did Facebook allow its users the option to add the colours of the Lebanese flag to their display pictures. In the 48 hours following the attacks, just about every political figure, artist, and entertainer released a statement on social media condemning what happened in Paris. Famous monuments from the Empire State Building to the London Bridge glowed all night in French colours. Candlelight vigils took place in major cities around the globe, while #PrayforParis was mentioned about 6.6 million times on Twitter, relative to only 273,000 mentions for #Beirut and #PrayforBeirut combined. “My people’s deaths in Beirut do not matter as much as other people’s deaths in Paris,” one Lebanese commentator wrote. “When my people died, they did not send the world into mourning.” Many concluded that the root of the problem was “the media,” and that it values some lives over others. It has been criticized for its failure to inform the public equally about the scope of human suffering around the world. It is fair to criticize the uneven coverage, and it is impossible to disagree on the basic facts: North American media routinely covers events that happen in the Canada, the U.S., and Europe
in extreme detail. North American media also favours events and issues that disproportionately impact White people and the wealthy. Media in the western world fails to provide attention to a slew of important stories, and what is deemed “important” falls along the lines of racial, economic, and regional hierarchies. All this has very real consequences. When a news outlet decides whose life is worthy of coverage, it can shape the public’s perspective of a given crisis; people cannot care about a tragedy if they do not even know it occurred. However, the blame can also be placed on the reader. Some complain that they are not seeing the coverage they want, but aside from some outraged posts on social media, many U.S and Canadian citizens do not actually seem to want the reporting they claim to value. Statistics have shown that they are not paying to subscribe and support the media outlets that provide in-depth global reporting. Aside from when tragedy strikes, the average North American is not sharing articles on Beirut or Kenya nearly as often as they are sharing pieces about Paris. Part of the issue is proximity; people naturally care more about events that are close to home, and issues that more directly impact us. Paris is more familiar to the average North American than Beirut or Garissa. In the aftermath of the Paris attacks, dozens of people
on Facebook and Instagram posted photos of themselves in that city. Far fewer would be able to post a tourist photo in Beirut and nearly none could post a picture of themselves in Garissa. The coverage Paris and Brussels received is justified, and it is not be said that its media attention should be diminished . However it is valid to ask why the same is not done for Gaza, Baghdad, Rakhine, or Garissa: “It isn’t wrong for us to feel disappointed, knowing that our love and support for victims of violence and natural calamities in the West, will not be reciprocated,” Pakistani author Faraz Talat wrote, “A Nigerian will gladly replace his profile picture on Facebook with a French flag, but if a bomb sets off in his own town, there will be no Nigerian colours on display on social media. It is not unreasonable to feel bitter knowing that the world has accepted our pain as an inevitability; our sensation-less Wednesday merely background noise to the ‘real’ traumas of the first world.” Regardless of how much coverage each attack receives, it is the duty of North American media consumers to take their role as global citizens seriously. They must challenge themselves to offer the same sympathy for victims of brutal violence in the Middle East and Africa as they did for those killed in Paris or Brussels. VOLUME 21 / ISSUE 3 mwplanet 05
world issues
world issues world issues
life
JUDGING JIAN By Madeleine MacIsaac-Sun It is safe to say that anyone who watches or reads the news has heard of the infamous Jian Ghomeshi sexual assault trial. Most know Ghomeshi as CBC’s radio star host (although CBC has since let him go) of a show called Q. The show featured interviews with prominent cultural and entertainment figures and enjoyed a large and dedicated following. Before becoming the host of Q – at the time the alleged events took place in 2002 and 2003 – Ghomeshi was the host of the CBC television show PLAY. However, in 2014 a woman came forward alleging that she had been sexually assaulted by Ghomeshi. All charges against Ghomeshi are based entirely on the evidence of the complainants. This means that the entire judgement of the trial relies on the credibility of the witnesses, which in this case is the complainants. Ghomeshi was charged with five criminal offences relating to four separate events. With all the media buzz, it’s easy for rumours to be confused as facts. Many people
aren’t sure of what he was actually charged with, what the verdict was, and why it was decided. This article will outline the facts for the reader, clarifying the confusion media sources may have left behind.
PHOTO BY TANJA-TIZIANA
The first complainant is known as L.R. (shielded from identification), and she accused Ghomeshi of two counts of sexual assault. The second, who chose to be identified, is Lucy DeCoutere. DeCoutere accused Ghomeshi of one count of sexual assault and another of overcoming resistance to sexual assault by choking. The third, also shielded
from identification, is known as S.D. and accused Ghomeshi of one count of sexual assault. Jian Ghomeshi chose not to actively defend himself (i.e. did not speak in court), but Canadian law states that his lack of action may not be used against him; in other words, one cannot say it is suspicious that he did not defend himself. However the credibility of the above witnesses could be considered questionable. The first complainant, L.R., had: an evolving set of facts; an unclear and changing story regarding some evidence; an unclear and changing story regarding an assault; and hid the fact that she and Ghomeshi remained in communication after incidences. In addition, she testified at length about Mr. Ghomeshi’s bright yellow Volkswagen, a car that Ghomeshi did
not acquire until seven months after the event she was recalling. Lucy DeCoutere disclosed material information late in the trial; was inconsistent in recounting the sexual assault; was deceptive in cross examination; and did not reveal evidence of a continued relationship. The last complainant, S.D., did not disclose to the judge that she had prior contact with other complainants. On March 24th, 2016, the judge released a verdict of not guilty. Many people were enraged by the verdict, but others also felt the right decision had been made. Outside of city hall, protesters rallied under the slogan “WE BELIEVE [sexual assault] SURVIVORS”. Some people consider the verdict an example of systemic misogyny – however, it’s important to take into consideration all of the facts. Ghomeshi, under Canadian constitution, had to have been presumed innocent until proven guilty. The witnesses were deemed unreliable, and the nuances of criminal law allowed for interpretation. One thing can be said for certain: the justice system is more complicated than many people think.
THIRST FoR CHANGE By Kayleen Dicuangco Water is impossible to live without. However, for the residents of Flint, Michigan the availability of this necessity has become a frightening issue. For the past two years, the city has been experiencing an unimaginable water crisis. Flint, located 70 miles north of Detroit, is a city of an estimated 99,000 residents. Almost half of the residents live below the poverty line, and the median household income is $24,679. In April 2014, Flint changed its water source from treated Detroit Water – which was sourced from Lake Huron as well as the Detroit River – to the Flint River, a source corrosion had not yet been applied. This change of the city’s water source and government negligence allowed lead and other harmful chemicals to pour out from VOLUME 21 / ISSUE 3 mwplanet 06
pipes and faucets into the city’s drinking water. Thus, the city’s water crisis began. Historically, the water in the Flint River has been of poor quality and was severely degraded due to the presence of fecal coli form bacteria, low dissolved oxygen, plant nutrients, oils, and toxic substances. In 2001, the state ordered the cleanup of more than one hundred polluted sites within the Flint River watershed, including industrial complexes, landfills, and farms that employed pesticides and fertilizers.
“We need to think about tomorrow, because this is an issue that we will be dealing with for a long time to come.” Residents began to notice the change in their water and protested that it looked, smelled and tasted awful. The water would have a yellowish tinge, turn cloudy, reddish, or brown, and at
times smell like spoiled eggs. Some residents have even gotten strange rashes or broke out in hives. They raised these concerns only to be told by their mayor and state officials that everything was perfect. Flint residents have lived off of cases of bottled water and small faucet filters since the crisis began. “It’s just horrible to know your city did this to you,” resident KeyKey Phillips says. The harmful substances in the water can severely impact the health of the residents. In children, the effects of lead exposure can include impaired cognitive functions, behavioural disorders, hearing problems and delayed puberty. In pregnant women, lead is associated with reduced fetal growth. For all people, the consumption of lead can impact the heart, kidneys and nerves. Not only humans have been affected by this, but resident’s dogs have been affected as well. Rhonda Kelso, a long-time Flint
PHOTO BY JAKE MAY
resident, says, “I’m paying for water that’s a toxic waste.” No one is sure when the water will be safe to drink again, or how much it will cost to repair the city’s infrastructure to ensure public health. It is unclear how many people -- tired of lies, neglect, and worry -- will move out of the city. “The bottled water, the filters – that’s a Band-Aid,” says Mona Hanna-Attisha, a pediatrician in Flint who played a central role in exposing the water crisis. “We need to think about tomorrow, because this is an issue that we will be dealing with for a long time to come.”
life life
world issues
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Real Life Lessons By Kieona George
In the span of careers long enough to make a grade nine think “wow, you’ve worked as long as I’ve lived plus more,” teachers have acquired seemingly boundless knowledge. Here are tidbits of what some teachers have figured out along with other suggestions for having a life a little less rough: FRIENDS “Experience different types of people.” Mr. Adourian “Surround yourself with good people because the company you keep is a reflection of who you are.” – Mrs. Sousa
“You only have maybe one or two friends in your life that are true friends.” – Mr. Marzewski
“Save some just for a rainy day because sometimes, it does rain.” – Mrs. Sousa
“Avoid people who constantly drain you, who exhaust you because that habit’s not gonna change.” – Mr. Morra
“Be as educated as you can about money.” - Mr. Hathway
“If I were to sum it up, someone you can laugh with, someone you can cry with.” – Mr. Morra “Be a good listener.” – Mr. Adourian LOVING YOURSELF “Without self-love you cannot love people or things or ideas around you because your inner world is reflected in the outer world.” – Mr. Marzewski “If you don’t love yourself, no one else will.” – Mrs. Sousa “You, yourself, you are #1. Nobody else will think that you are #1 so you have to think of yourself as #1.” – Mr. Hathway “You can’t pour from an empty cup.” – Mr. Morra MONEY “You need to have a plan to have some.” - Mr. Candiotto
PHOTO BY VANESSA LUK
“Travel as much as you can in your twenties.” – Mr. Morra
“About money, the only that wasn’t true was the whole Tooth Fairy thing. That was just a flat out lie. On that my momma steered me wrong on.” – Mrs. Ireland CAREER AND PASSION “Your passion is your career. You should never be told by anyone that those are two different paths in life.” – Mr. Marzewski “Follow your passions, and a career will come.” – Mr. Candiotto “Find something that makes your heart pump with a little bit of extra excitement instead of feeling exhausted dragging your feet to that job.” – Mr. Morra
PHOTO BY VANESSA LUK
“The time flies. Take care of every minute.” – Mrs. Ireland “Don’t let the things that happened to you in the past hinder your future.” – Mr. Adourian “You can always start from scratch.” – Mr. Adourian “Everything you do connects to other people. You need to be mindful of that.” – Mrs. Ireland
“Try to make your career and your passion the same thing.” – Mrs. Ireland
“Literally, explore the world.” – Mr. Adourian
KNOWLEDGE GOLD “Don’t feel rushed into anything ever. You don’t have to know all the answers all the time.” – Mr. Hathway
“Actually that’s another thing I’d tell my eighteen-year-old self: listen to country!” – Mrs. Ireland
THE POWER OF SELF-REFLECTION By DonQarlo Bernardino In a time when Ward students are stressed out over units and sleepless nights, it’s obvious that breaks – or anything else than can help us relax – is needed. That’s where selfreflection comes in. When students are having problems or going through big changes in their lives, stress can be overwhelming. Selfreflection helps them to stop and take a moment to think things through in a calm manner. While being under a lot of stress and anxiety, students tend to make irrational decisions that they regret later on. The first thing you should do in your process of self-reflection is to find a calm and quiet place to do your thinking. A pond or even your quiet living room are a couple great spots, as well as anywhere else you can relax and
let your brain wander. Self-reflection comes with asking yourself questions about your life and yourself.
you happy and can over time even develop into a career. Think about what your goals are, and strive for them.
Everyone has moments of introspection where they just ponder over things, but here are some questions you should be asking yourself.
Am I making a positive influence in the world?
Am I being a person others can respect? Think about all the people you meet in your life and about how your actions and interactions affect their lives. Try and pinpoint different aspects of your personality that affect other people, and develop the positives while discarding the negatives. Always strive to become a better person that is respectful and will be respected. Am I using my talents fully? This question definitely helps you in your transition from school to work. Talent is something that should make
Although this question is similar to the first, it also considers how we can help people we don’t even know. As a doctor or an artist, your skills or your creations can impact almost everyone around the world. Your actions and dreams could inspire someone else’s actions and dreams, and that’s a beautiful thing. Those are just some of the questions you could be thinking about while selfreflecting. Sometimes in life, you just need to let things sink in and calmly think about what’s next. Let your mind wander, and you never know; just one reflection could change your life forever. PHOTO BY VANESSA DAQUIPIL
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Pe rfecting Your Portfolio By Kayleen Dicuangco
If you are an art student who plans on continuing with art or design after post-secondary, you’re probably very familiar with the word “portfolio.” In addition to meeting academic requirements, a portfolio is mandatory when applying for an art or design program in university or college. A portfolio is a collection of a student’s work which showcases their creativity, personality, skills and abilities. Every portfolio is trying to do the same thing – secure a student’s place in their programs of choice. But it can be quite difficult to put a portfolio together. Here are a few tips from a student who had the opportunity to assemble a portfolio: Research. The requirements of a portfolio are different for each school. Research and review the exact admission requirements carefully, and well in advance, since deadlines can be earlier than you would expect. Visit the websites of your schools of choice as they tend to have a page dedicated to portfolio requirements, such as a specific list of what you should prepare. It may be helpful to print or take note of key information such as deadlines, fees, portfolio dimensions, as well as interview dates, so that you can refer to them throughout the process.
Don’t procrastinate. Do not leave your portfolio to the last minute. Putting a portfolio together requires a lot of time and effort in order to show your strengths and be the best it can be. It is most ideal to start preparing your work a year in advance, such as in grade 11, to avoid any allnighters a week before deadlines.
schools want to see your thoughts, ideas, and creative processes. A sketchbook should feature a variety of things that interest you, whether that is calligraphy, daily doodles, or just random thoughts you want to jot down. Get into the habit of carrying a sketchbook around anywhere and everywhere.
Recent work is better. To make your selection process easier, consider removing projects that are older than two to three years. Avoid anything over that timeframe since the work could look dated, or may not accurately show your current abilities. Recent work best demonstrates your creative and skill level.
Take advantage of school work. Use some of your units and projects from your art courses for your portfolio. It will save you a lot of time!
Show variety. Aim to demonstrate a range of your artistic skills, experiences, and ideas. It is important to include a good range of recent visual work. This may include different illustrations, paintings, or photographs using different mediums and styles. If you want to focus on a specific program such as graphic design, focus on computer based design with pieces that vary in layout, typography, colour, and theme. In many cases, designers tend to show a lot of the same type of work and as a result, have a portfolio lacking variety. Try to avoid repeating skills to show your many capabilities. Use a sketchbook. A sketchbook is always a necessary component of a portfolio. It is such an important part of the procedure since
be somehow related to highlighting your strengths and ability as an artist and designer. Know why you made each piece, how you made them, what you like about each piece, and why each piece is important. This is also handy when preparing for the portfolio interview. Keep it organized. Once you have selected your pieces, the presentation of your portfolio is very important. Art supply stores such as Michael’s or Curry’s carry a variety of art portfolios that you can use. The organization and arrangement of your portfolio has a huge impact on the way your work is perceived. Always keep your portfolio clean and organized. Poorly-cared-for work that is thrown together in a sloppy, thoughtless layout or is overly decorative really detracts from the quality of the artwork. Tell your story. The most important part of a portfolio is the artist. Your portfolio is a selling tool, but it is also a lot more than that. A portfolio should be able to tell an engaging story about you and should make you stand out from others. It should show – through your projects – where you are in art or design in addition to your passions, goals, and strengths.
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Know your stuff. Every project in your portfolio should have a purpose and reason for it to be in your portfolio. That purpose should
But don’t stress too much! Have fun while preparing your portfolio and be passionate about your work and what you do.
Getting the Mandatory Forty - And More By Madeleine MacIsaac-Sun Summer break is right around the corner, and the question on everyone’s mind is: what should I do during said break? One viable option is to volunteer – after all, it’s necessary to complete 40 hours if you are to graduate. Some people have zero hours, some people have 20 hours, and some people have 200 hours. The bottom line is this: everyone needs those volunteer hours, perhaps even more than just the mandatory forty. It’s smart to volunteer at more places than singular events and one time occurrences. Long-term volunteer VOLUME 21 / ISSUE 3 mwplanet 08
positions offer a multitude of benefits, and usually give a person more than 40 hours, depending on how long they volunteer. But why would anyone want more than 40 hours? Are long-term positions really that beneficial? In fact, they are.
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Volunteering on an ongoing basis allows a person to meet new people outside of school. On top of that, a volunteer supervisor can write great reference letters when the time comes
to apply for a job. Relationships are formed and connections are made; overall, volunteering is a great thing to do. Volunteer experience also looks great on any resume! Here are some places one might consider when looking for a volunteer position: Summer camps Summer camps are a great way to volunteer on an ongoing basis. The commitment isn’t too long – anywhere from a week to a couple of months – and usually affords the volunteer a good amount of hours. Youth groups, youth collectives, etc. Youth groups meet on a regular basis throughout the year, and you can compiles many volunteer hours
over a long period of time; this type of volunteer position can go on for years. This is an especially great way to volunteer, as a site will usually have extra volunteer opportunities on top of usual youth group meetings. Churches, libraries, museums, and many other places run youth groups. Long term care facilities Long term care facilities are a great place to volunteer. Many of the people living in these homes do not often have visitors, and get very lonely. This volunteer role simply does good for other human beings – after all, the elderly and disabled are human too! They enjoy being engaged in conversation and other activities, but unfortunately many facilities do not have enough staff to do so – which is where volunteers come into play.
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Exhale the TORONTO F SCOOP i Stress By Leanne Cortez
Summer break is fast approaching, which means it’s going to get hotter. Nothing beats the heat better than eating some cold ice cream. But why buy from the ice cream truck when Toronto is home to great ice cream shops? These spots aren’t just serving a simple scoop, they’re serving a wide variety of flavours in a wide variety of arrangements. The shops mentioned below are just a few of the many ice cream shops that Toronto has to offer. Ed’s Real Scoop Locations: 2224 Queen St. East, 920 Queen St. East, 189 Roncesvalles Ave. Hours: Sunday to Thursday 11:30am 9pm/Friday to Saturday 11:30am - 9:30 pm Ed’s Real Scoop has three different locations, all of them near the water. This shop serves real homemade ice cream, gelato, frozen yogurt, and sorbets in over one hundred flavours. They also sell their own pints of ice cream so you can eat it all in the comfort of your own home.
Their uniquely named ice cream collection include London Fog, Thank You Very Matcha, Love Oolong Time, Corn on the Cone, and Rocky Roadkill. There are also many ways you can get your ice cream; they have bowls, pints, cones, cookies, macarons, chiffon, cream puffs, and Hong Kong Waffles. Sweet Jesus Location: 106 John St Hours: Monday 7am - 10pm/Tuesday - Saturday 7am - 11pm/Sunday 9am 10pm
Ah... yes, the end of the school year. A time that many students have been hoping for, while simultaneously dreading. This is the time when the workload gets the best of students, as they find themselves in the midst of the May-June rush, struggling to hand
Try Yoga Yoga is known for being another effective stress reliever due to its physical poses, controlled breathing, and meditation. Certain yoga poses like the eagle or downward dog open up the shoulders and relieve a lot of the physical symptoms of stress such as neck tension. However, there are many different types; Hatha yoga in particular is an excellent place to start
Sweet Jesus is a small corner store that provides some huge ice cream. Their most famous item on the menu is their over the top soft serves. You can get flavours like Krusty the Cone – which is covered in cotton candy, sprinkles, and a cotton candy sauce – or Cookies Cookies Cookies and Cream which has Oreos, chocolate chip cookies, and cookie dough. If ice cream isn’t your thing, they also sell paletas, which are Mexican popsicles. However if you want to stay in the comfort of your home, check out our website at mwplanet.tumblr.com to learn how to make your own ice cream treats right in your own kitchen!
The Red Bench Location: 611 Yonge St. Hours: Sunday to Saturday 1 pm- 10 pm The Red Bench is a small store squished in between Dots and Bootmaster; you’ll know when you’ve found it when you see their red bench.
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in those remaining units or cramming for end-of-the-year exams. To help you cope, here is a list of things to help you de-stress and remain calm despite the madness: Meditation One of the best ways to combat stress is to have a peaceful mind, and meditation does just that. The word meditation is derived from two latin words: meditari (to think, dwell upon, to exercise the mind) and medi (to heal). There are several different ways to meditate, and it’s best to find what works for you. To get you started, here is a simple exercise. 1. Sit or lie down comfortably. 2. Close your eyes.
Besides ice cream, they also do selfserve frozen yogurt, and have six flavours that constantly rotate that include Pomegranate Acai, Fudge Brownie, and Mousse au Chocolat.
3. Breathe deeply. 4. Focus your attention on your breath, and on how your body moves with each inhale and each exhale. Observe your chest, shoulders, rib cage and belly. Don’t try to control your breath; simply focus your attention on it. If you start getting distracted, simply return your focus back to your breath.
After you’ve picked a flavour you can customize your sweet treat and add different kinds of candy, fruit, or nut toppings. Bang Bang Ice Cream and Bakery Location: 93 Ossington Ave Hours: Sunday 12- 10 pm/Monday closed/Tuesday to Thursday 1- 10 pm/ Friday 1- 11 pm Saturday 12- 11pm
By Nimmy Ayekun
5. Practice the exercise for 2–3 minutes to start, and then work up to longer periods of time.
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for beginners because of its slower pace and easier movements. Turn off electronic devices. It is no doubt that cellphones are a major contributor to stress. Turning off your electronic devices will not only help you stay focused, but also stop you from worrying about all the demands in your life, even if it’s just for a little while. Go for a short walk Taking walks helps release and boost endorphins, and is a great way to clear your mind. Walking in parks or public spaces is especially helpful because it already puts your body in a state of meditation. Doodle! Simply grab a pen and paper and draw. “Zendoodling,” as it is commonly referred as, is a good place to start. It is an artistic style known by many artists for its structured and intricate designs made through various patterns. The simple and repetitive art style takes your mind off things and has also been scientifically proven to regulate your amygdala, therapeutically relieving you from stress. For more information go to our website mwplanet.tumblr.com where you can learn more about simple zentangle techniques to introduce you to the art of de-stressing. VOLUME 21 / ISSUE 3 mwplanet 09
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COMMUNITY WRAP-UP By Joyce Giolagon As the school year comes to another end, some of us will be leaving and others will continue studying at Mary Ward. Whichever is the case, the events that have occurred throughout the remainder of the year will become memories. Here is a quick refresher of all the great things that our Mary Ward community has achieved in the past couple months:
promotes pro-choice, was supported through a civvies day fundraiser.
Earth Day/Earth Week Greenquest hosted an environmentally friendly week from April 25th to 29th. From selling seeds in the foyer to educating students about climate change, Greenquest helped promote a green thumb to students while selling delicious treats at their bake sale. Earth Day, which was on April 22, was also effective in Mary Ward as all lights were encouraged to be turned off.
Easter Liturgy On March 30th, Mary Ward celebrated the Easter Liturgy as a community. All students gathered together in the gym to celebrate mass and the Easter season, lead by Father Lehman. PHOTO BY KRISTIAN YOUNG
Chemistry PLN
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OSSLT Day After many practice tests, grade 10 students wrote their OSSLT assessment on March 31. Their morning involved reading and writing about mental and physical exercises, a charity, and even naked mole rats. The rest of the afternoon was open to students of all grades to submit units and get work done.
On April 6, Grade 11 students divided into groups to teach elementary students about chemistry through a fun-filled, CSI-themed day. The schools Epiphany of Our Lord and St. Henry’s were involved in science based activities that helped educate and encourage students to see a different side of science courses. SAC Club Appreciation Cake, cake, cake! On April 26th, SAC hosted a Club Appreciation Day where a slideshow of all the students in their respective clubs was showcased to the school to acknowledge the students for their hard work and dedication.
Spring Concert
Cake and juice boxes were passed out as a little breakfast treat.
Band students finished off their musical renditions on May 19 for the Spring Concert. Songs that were featured include the Lion King, Drums of Saamis, Quad City Stomp, and What a Wonderful World. Mary Ward once again showed off how musically talented our students are.
SAC Elections
End of Year Liturgy/Q16
SAC also organized their annual SAC Elections on May 3rd, where students voted for their grade representatives, president and other various positions. The SAC team for the 2016/2017 school year includes:
SAC hosted another great end of year liturgy and Q16 BBQ. The entire school gathered around the hill to celebrate mass in the scorching weather, accompanied by a beautiful overview of the pond. With free hot dogs, chips, and drinks, students hurried to the ever-growing line-up for lunch. Activities included a chill zone in the cafeteria, insanely fun bubble soccer, and tug-of-war on the turf. A big shout out to everyone who made this awesome day possible!
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Grade 10 Representatives: Dexter Florenza and Jessy George Grade 11 Representatives: Rachel Chin and Tosa Oilogu Grade 12 Representatives: Marla Miranda and Anna Galang Treasurer: Simone Percy Secretary: Sheena Yadao
Here’s to another great year at Mary Ward!
External Affairs: Jann Marchan Vice President: Meagan Tanguilig President: Alfonso Manalo Respect for Life Week Students for Life ran their Respect for Life Week from May 9th to 13th. Morning reflections were read to help promote their stance on pro-life. Aid to Women, a Toronto organization that
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S K I L L S C A N A DA By Bianca Gomba On May 2nd-4th, 2016, school boards from all around Ontario came together to Waterloo Rim Park to compete in the Ontario Technological Skills Competition (OTSC) at the provincial level. From Mary Ward, six students represented the Toronto Catholic District School Board (TCDSB) amongst many others from various schools in our board. Their assignments varied yet were all difficult, as they had VOLUME 21 / ISSUE 3 mwplanet 10
restrictions and a six to eight hour time limit. However, they proved they had major skills as they worked diligently in their fields. Kayleen Dicuangco placed 8 out of 25 students in Graphic Design - Studio Production, having to create a passport brochure for a farm and a soap box design. Aiken Chau and Bianca Gomba competed in 2D Animation, working frame by frame to make an animation under ten seconds. They placed 17 out of 23 students! Leanne and Brianna Cortez were in the Construction area, producing a corner table in only a
few hours. They placed 30 out of 47 pairs. And last, but certainly not least, Adrienne Dacoco was in the Graphic Design competition, creating a T-shirt, logo, and banner design for next year’s Skills Ontario website. She had to present her works and explain her reasoning behind the design; it is clear that she amazed them as she earned a silver medal/2nd place out of 22 students from across Ontario! Congratulations to all these students for being incredibly skilled to represent both TCDSB and Mary Ward! Great job everyone! PHOTO BY NICOLE POWELL
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THINK PINK, DON’T SINK By Joselyn Wong From April 11th to April 14th, 2016, Mary Ward introduced its first ever Gay Straight Alliance Week to address arising issues in the LGBTQ community. LGBTQ stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer or Questioning; five categories of sexual orientation that people can identify with. People in these groups are berated in various forms and are constantly under fire from bullying and harassment. Mary Ward is an exceptionally accepting school, but there is always more to be done to further raise understanding for the LGBTQ group. Taking a firm stance, Mary Ward’s GSA club dedicated the week to raising awareness and advocating its important matters around the school.
orientation is crossing the line as it is a serious subject matter. GSA also quipped about the question box in the foyer where one could put in any questions they have regarding LGBTQ issues. Tuesday brought up what it means to be an ally and how teachers and students can help to make the school a safe, welcoming place. Positive role models in the LGBTQ community such as Tyler Oakley, a famous YouTuber, and Tom Daley, an Olympic diver, are just a number of people who are LGBTQ and open about it.
One of the most significant dates was April 13th of GSA week: International Pink Day. This international day started when two teenage boys, David Shepherd and Travis Price, saw an openly gay boy being bullied for wearing pink on his first day to school. Deciding to take action, the two teenagers went to a discount store and bought fifty pink t-shirts. Upon arriving to school the next day, the boy received an overwhelming amount of support from students where many were dressed in pink. Therefore, many members of Mary Ward came in that day in varying shades of pink, generating unanimous response
for the acceptance of the LGBTQ community. A bake sale was also held in the foyer after school to advocate this issue. To wrap-up the first ever GSA week, members of GSA talked about transphobia and the consequences of people discriminating transgenders. In response to whether the GSA week had brought further acceptance or knowledge about the LGBTQ, Nicole Aprile, a grade twelve student at Mary Ward, said: “The morning announcements were really effective in raising awareness; they stated facts, people and the importance of this issue which many have probably never thought about. People don’t mean to be offensive, but they don’t really understand how their actions can hurt others.” It is crucial that people build an understanding and respect for those who identify themselves as LGBTQ, as they too are an integral part of the community. As a supporter or member of the LGBTQ group, be assertive and take a stand against unjust discrimination! To find out more about this amazing group, you can contact them at @ MWGSA.
GSA week commenced with members of the club asking whether the phrase “that’s so gay,”’ was appropriate when used as a joke with no ill-intention behind it. Yes, anything can be made fun of – nothing is above humour to a certain extent – but phrases such as these? Not so much. Poking fun by using someone’s sexual
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UNITED IN NEW YORK By Julia D’Silva On April 5 2016, thirteen students from Mary Ward boarded a bus headed to New York City where they participated in a three-day workshop about the United Nations and relevant social issues. The trip gave students an opportunity to learn more about social justice issues, how the UN works, and the role of the Loretto Sisters at the UN in furthering social justice issues. Over the course of the three days, they learned about issues such as human trafficking, the Syrian refugee crisis, and the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Students spoke to the Canadian Ambassador to the UN and had a lengthy Question and Answer session
with the second secretary of the Permanent Mission of Canada to the United Nations. They enjoyed tours of the United Nations and the MoMA, and had a guided tour of Manhattan. The students also got to see the Broadway production of “The Color Purple,” which was an amazing experience. Ms. Mak, the trip chaperone, said that the trip “went really well. Students from different schools bonded through various activities and experiences... Overall, it’s a fantastic experience.” Aloka Mahadurage, who went on the trip, agreed, saying: “It was a really amazing experience. Between touring the United Nations, discussing important global issues, and meeting new people, we learned a lot on this
trip and made some once in a lifetime memories.” From Times Square to the rest of New York City, most of the students’ free time was spent shopping, sightseeing, and eating! Despite the lengthy 12hour bus ride, the trip passed in a blur of interesting lectures, new friendships, games of Stella Ella Ola, and great experiences in a spectacular city. Students plan to incorporate their newfound knowledge of social issues into their lives at Mary Ward. As Ms. Mak said, “Our own Mary Ward students have also brought back a wealth of knowledge which they shared with a group of Grade 9 English students during the Street Patrol trip.” The Street Patrol experience is hopefully just the first step in the continuation of these students’ learning about global issues.
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With all that they have learned, the students who went on the UN trip are more than prepared to continue their social justice education and share their knowledge and experience with others. VOLUME 21 / ISSUE 3 mwplanet 11
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By Bianca Gomba The drama department brought happiness, surprise, and mischief to the Mary Ward community in this year’s production of The Music Man. The play was centered around Harold Hill, a con man trying to sell instruments, books, and uniforms to the people in River City. The catch was that he would not teach them how to play, and leave once he got their payments. However, money was not the only thing he found in this town – he also found love with the librarian, Marian Paroo. Each performance showcased the dedication and months of hard work provided by those involved. Teachers gathered old costumes and adjusted them to fit the lively dances throughout the show. The sets were carefully made and painted by constructions students and the cast, garnering great attention for its detail. Comical scenes created laughter all around, while more serious parts were met with intent eyes and ‘ooo’s. Clearly, the acting and singing astounded the crowd. Filled with laughter, energy, and touching moments, the cast, tech crew, and pit band did an incredible three-night run of this spectacular show. A huge congratulations to the leads Dominic Lagman and Felicia Ordanes who excelled in their roles, and to Mr. Dalton and all of the faculty involved in this unforgettable production - a job well done by all! VOLUME 21 / ISSUE 3 mwplanet 12
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CHIMERA By Bianca Gomba Mary Wardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s basement was transformed into a gallery of insane sculptures and vivid paintings in this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s art show titled Chimera. Hosted by the art and tech department, Chimera showcased the dedication of art, video, photography, media, construction and design students of all grades. Teachers, students, parents, and even alumni came during May 9 to 13, expressing interest in the paintings, sculptures, and photography featured. There were great vocal performances every hour from students who auditioned to earn their spot on the stage. The student-designed Chimera shirts were also a roaring success as there was a mad dash to print fresh shirts after Gala night opening to keep up with the demand. Mary Ward had so much talent in all art fields represented within the show, and the support from our student body was astounding. A special thank you goes out to the art teachers and the arts admin for putting on such an amazing show!
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SIGNING OUT By Nimmy Ayekun At last; the end of the school year! Goodbye to units, school, exams; the list goes on. Unfortunately this year, we will be saying goodbye to two inspiring role models, teachers and pillars of our community: Ms. Poole and Ms. Spearns. The Planet sat down with them both to learn about their thoughts and opinions on their time at Ward as well as before and after. Q: What was Ward like when you first started? Spearns: It took awhile to become accustomed to the unusual selfdirected system and the masses of
marking. Fortunately there were many “somebodies” around who helped me navigate the interesting system of inputting marks.
something new. Seeing our students grow in knowledge and maturity and prepare to take on life is extremely rewarding!
Poole: Since I had taught for over 20 years at four other high schools (Liberman, Blessed Mother Teresa, Ontario Science Centre School and Marshall Mcluhan), I found teaching at Ward a piece of cake.
Poole: I loved the PLNS, ACES, and writing with “ The Dream Team.”
Q: What would you say is the most rewarding part about being a teacher here at Ward / What did you enjoy the most?
Spearns: My advice is always to do your best. Keep alert, well informed and involved in the happenings in your field and around your society.
Spearns: The most rewarding part about being a teacher, is see the “Eureka” moment reflected in the eyes of the students when they learn
Poole: My advice to students would be: “Step with care and great tact and remember that life is a great balancing act. Just never forget to be dexterous
’ Don t Sweat Over Student Debt By Nimmy Ayekun The province of Ontario has created a plan to help make college and university a more accessible and affordable option for many students and families. On March 1st 2016, Kathlynne Wynne presented the details of the new Ontario Grant under the 2016 budget. The major revisions of OSAP will replace a number of existing provincial plans with one single non-repayable Ontario Student grant. Under the new grant, families with a median income of $83,300 or less will be provided with enough grants to cover their total tuition costs. Additionally, provincial student loan debt for eligible students whose parents earn less than 50,000 dollars will be eliminated. The revisions to the grant will also ensure that no eligible student will receive less non-repayable aid than they currently do through the 30% off Ontario Tuition grant. From this VOLUME 21 / ISSUE 3 mwplanet 14
new grant, over 80% of students are expected to end up with lower student debt and will go into effect in the 20172018 school year. As directly stated by Wynne herself: “... by providing affordable and accessible post-secondary education for everyone in the province and supporting students from low-and middle-income families as they pursue a university degree or college diploma, our government is helping to build the highly skilled workforce that is an investment in Ontario’s future.” This step in Ontario is definitely a positive one in the right direction; equal access to education and opportunity is a right.
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Q: Last but not least, what advice do you have for future students and teachers?
and deft. And never mix up your right with your left.” It’s one of my favorite quotes, from Dr. Seuss. Regarding their plans for retirement, Ms. Poole is excited to be able to spend more time with family and friends at her cottage, while Ms. Spearns plans to pursue different interests and activities, and possibly travel in Southern U.S.A. Although it is sad to see these teachers leave, their legacy at Mary Ward will live on. The Planet, and the Mary Ward community, thanks them for the way they have touched and shaped so many lives, and wishes them the best in their future endeavors.
WARD TAKES ON ITALY By Serena Singh This year, several students were given the opportunity to travel to Italy for 11 nights and 12 days. From March 18th to March 29th, they were fully immersed in Italian culture from food, to music, to lodgings. Their once in a lifetime learning experience was focussed on Italy’s rich history and religion. The Mary Ward Italy trip proved to be an adventure around every corner. In Rome, the students watched Mr. Morra give a rendition of William Shakespeare’s Mark Anthony’s speech on the very spot where it is thought to have taken place. Students were able to share a beautiful gondola ride through the city of Venice, while the more courageous climbed to the top of Il Duomo in Florence and witnessed the breathtaking scenery below. The students even explored the excavated city of Pompeii and relaxed in the gorgeous Piazza del Campo in Siena. Others ran through a double helix well in Orvieto and went on ‘Juliet’s Balcony’ in Verona. The Mary Ward Italy trip was remarkable in every way, but perhaps one of the
most memorable moments was the massive celebration they experienced in Rome on Easter Sunday. Since it was the Jubilee Year, this Easter Sunday was perhaps one of the most incredible religious experience of these high school students’ lives. In all of the seven cities they visited, each student made a precious memory that they will not soon forget nor replace. Regardless of what they did or did not do, this trip is one that will stay with them forever. The trip blog can be visited for more information: http://moritaly2016.wix. com/onlineblog.
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SPORTS WRAP UP By Davenand Harack
Varsity Girls’ Soccer Coaches: Mr. Rossi, Ms. Ventura Record: 12-0 The Varsity Girls’ Soccer team had an exceptional season and were undefeated! The combined teamwork of their defense and offence lead them to TDCAA championships where they won first place, beating Dante Alighieri Academy 5 to 1. The entire Mary Ward community is proud of the girls’ incredible season.
be competing at OFSAA from June 2-4 in Windsor. Varsity Boys’ Cricket Coaches: Mr. Titus and Ms. De Silva Record: 3-3
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Varsity Boys’ Softball had a strong team this year, leaving them undefeated. Their strong efforts helped them advance to the semifinals on June 1 where they finished third.
This year was the first year that Mary Ward had a cricket team, playing in the CIMA Mayor’s Cup Tournament. During this tournament they played well coming 3rd in their pool, but unfortunately they did not advance. At the TCDSB Cricket Tournament the boys once again came 3rd. They played well this year and hope to see experienced cricketers next season! PHOTO BY NATALIE ALMOSA
wins. They gave it their all on the field, but unfortunately did not advance to championships. The boys were extremely dedicated to the sport and improved throughout the season. PHOTO BY NATALIE ALMOSA
Track and Field Coaches: Mr. Toth, Mr. Poole, Mr. Coleman
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Jr. Boys’ Volleyball Coaches: Ms. MacIssac, Ms. Sersanti Record: 6-0
Once again, the Track and Field team had an exceptional season with many athletes qualifying for OFSAA. Jerome Jude qualified in two events - the Senior boys 800m as well as the Senior boys’
It was a great season for the Jr. boys’ volleyball team whose skill and teamwork left them undefeated. The team made it to the championship game where they landed in first place. Amazing season boys, and good luck defending the gold next year!
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Varsity Girls’ Flag Football Coaches: Mr. Adourian, Mr. Dever, Mr. Kennedy, Record: 3-4 The Varsity Girls’ Flag Football team’s strong teamwork and dedication earned them a spot in the playoffs this year, where they played well and worked hard. Despite their loss, the girls’ had a fun season and improved their football skills.
Varsity Dragonboat Coach: Ms. Torrosian, Mr. Kennedy The varsity dragon boat team began land practices in February, and boat practices in May. Two boat teams will be competing at their first regatta on June 5th in Pickering and at their final regatta on June 18th at Centre Island. Varsity Girls’ Softball Coach: Ms. Zidar, Ms. Ireland, Ms. Sgrignioli Record: 1-3 The girls played well this season, earning themselves a spot in the playoffs where – despite their best efforts – the girls were unfortunately eliminated. It was a great learning season for the girls.
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Varsity Boys’ Softball Coaches: Mr. Harrison, Mr. Dever, Mr. Hathway Record: 3-0
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1500m and Simon Peiris qualified for senior boys’ high jump. Lastly, the Junior girls 4x100m relay team qualified as well. These athletes will
Sr. Boys’ Soccer Coach: Mr. Vecchiarelli, Mr. Derose Record: 1-3, 2 ties Senior Boys’ Soccer had a strong team this year, with many close
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EUROPE'S FINEST: THE EURO 2016 CONTENDERS By Nicole Fernandes Euro 2016 is heading to France this summer, with the finest teams in Europe battling it out for the silver cup. Some of the greatest players in this era of soccer will be present, with the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Paul Pogba, Gareth Bale, and many more. Twentytwo of the twenty-four participating teams will be eliminated by July 10 where the two most successful teams in Europe will battle it out for the coveted trophy. Based purely off of statistics with no biased opinion, and in no particular order, here are five teams that are likely be top contenders for the hardware this summer: Belgium The Belgium Red Devils are comfortably sitting in second place in the FIFA top international teams ranking behind Messi’s Argentina, but ahead of defending Euro champions Spain and 2014 World Cup winners Germany. Belgium may have missed the last three Euro Cups, but they finally qualified this year with the help of Chelsea’s Eden Hazard and Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne. De Bruyne and Hazard were key in the Red Devils qualifying for Euro, as well as their spell in the 2014 World Cup. They both scored five goals in the qualifying phase of the Euro Cup, and KDB had three assists in his last ten games. Oddly dubbed as a ‘Chelsea reject’, KDB has shut that name down with 17 goals and 15 assists (and counting) under his name in the 2015/16 season. Chelsea man Eden Hazard will be looking to prove his worth after having only scored two BPL goals this season as of April 23, which is quite shocking for the once PFA Player of the Year. Another player to watch out for is Divock Origi. The 21-year-old has had a successful season at Liverpool with 11 goals. He most recently helped them reach the Europa League semi finals and a 4-0 win in the Merseyside derby against Everton. It will be interesting to see the likes of KDB, Hazard, and Origi coming together this summer to blast Belgium further into the competition. If they can win their group, Belgium VOLUME 21 / ISSUE 3 mwplanet 16
will surely have a strong run at the Euros this June. Spain The current reigning Euro champions will be looking to hold on to their title and show the world that they indeed are one of the best once again. Coach Vincent Del Bosque has made a shift in his call ups, bringing young, fresh faces to the squad like Valencia’s Paco Alcácer, who was the top goal scorer in the qualifying phase with five goals to his name. Another striker to watch out for is Juventus’ Alvaro Morata, who has had a fine season with the Italian giants. David Silva has been as strong as always and the little magician, or ‘El Mago’, had three goals and three assists in the qualifying round of Euro as well as 11 assists and counting for Manchester City this season. What Spain sports fans are really anxious for is the possibility of Fernando Torres getting a call up this June. ‘El nino’ has been in impressive form recently with Atletico Madrid earning goals in five consecutive games for the first time in his career. Another Atletico player to watch out for is Koke who has 15 assists this season so far. With some of the world’s best on their team including Real Madrid’s Sergio Ramos, Barcelona’s Andres Iniesta, Sergio Busquets, and David De Gea, Spain will be hoping to re-establish themselves in world football and defend their title from the rest of Europe’s top teams. Germany Many people would think World Champions Germany would be in the top four of the FIFA rankings, but in reality South Americans dominate it with Argentina in first, Chile in third, and Colombia in fourth. Germany sits in fifth place as of April 25, however everyone in the soccer world knows what Germany is capable of after a smashing display at the World Cup. Hero Mario Gotze was probably one of the greatest substitutions in this era of football, as he went on to score the winning goal against Argentina minutes before the end of the second half of extra time.
Germany will be seeking to win the double this June, with Thomas Müller as their top scorer in the qualifying phase, scoring nine goals in nine games. The Bayern man has 31 goals and 10 assists to his name so far this season. Miroslav Klose will be noticeably absent after announcing his retirement, but Germany will surely be able to make it work. Mesut Özil will also heavily influence the team, boasting a stunning 19 assists this year (and counting), and a nomination for PFA Player of the Year. The Germans produce great football on the pitch and it will be exciting to see them play in France this summer. With some of the greatest of the era on their team – with the likes of sweeper keeper Neuer, Müller, and more – Germany will surely go far in the Euros. England In soccer as well as other sports, England is known for crashing out of competitions. They had an unconvincing display in the 2014 World Cup, failing to advance past the group stages. They were, however, one of the first teams to qualify for the Euro Cup this year, and did so with a perfect run – the only team to do so. They also sit in second place for most scored goals in the qualifying phase with 31, only two short of Poland who has 33. Manchester United’s Wayne Rooney became England’s all time goal scorer, but the United man may lose the spotlight because of strikers Jamie Vardy and Hary Kane. Vardy has a touching rags to riches story, journeying from a factory worker, to playing non-league football, to being a striking sensation in the top tier of English football. His team, Leicester City, was at the bottom of the English league last season and were set to get relegated, but pulled through at the end. Now, they sit in first place on the league ahead of Tottenham, Manchester City, Arsenal, and Manchester United. Jamie Vardy also has 22 goals in the league, one behind reigning Golden Boot winner Sergio Aguero. Vardy even scored his first goal for England against the mighty world champions Germany, and England went on to win the game.
Tottenham Hotspur striker Harry Kane is also making a name for himself. Kane is top goal scorer of the BPL as of April 25, with 24 goals to his name, and scored against Germany in the comeback win. Another Tottenham man to watch out for is Dele Alli, the 20-year-old who was named PFA Young Player of the Year for the 2015/16 season. With all this talent, this summer might actually be England’s time to shine. France Hosts France will be seeking European glory in their nation this summer, as they head into the competition as favourites. France had a good run during the 2014 World Cup, but were knocked out in the quarter finals by Germany in a 1-0 loss. The French did eventually get their revenge, beating Germany 2-0 in November. Though France did not have to go through the qualifying phase for Euro, they are still an undeniably strong team with young talented stars. Dmitri Payet of West Ham United is being highly recognized for his stunning free kicks, helping West Ham move up to sixth in the Premier League. N’Golo Kante has been extremely impressive for Leicester City; there isn’t a position on the pitch he hasn’t covered. Kante was also the first player in Europe to win over 100 tackles this season, and joined Payet in scoring on their France debuts against Russia on March 29, 2016. Arguably one of the greatest midfielders at the moment, Paul Pogba has the most assists in Series A, with 11 to his name, and 14 in all competitions. Karim Benzema may be a noticeably missing name from the squad this June, but it is no secret France has a variety of great forwards. The likes of Antoine Griezmann and Anthony Martial come to mind. Griezmann has 30 goals and 7 assists (and counting) in all competitions for Atletico Madrid and France. Anthony Martial of Manchester United has 14 goals and 10 assists (and counting) for Manchester United this season, which is pretty impressive considering they have been having a poor season. With these players, and many more, it is very easy to picture France going far in the competition.
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Brain Games By Brian Cruz Everyone has engaged in a sport during their lifetime, with many of these games sharing a few central elements. Activities such as basketball, volleyball, table tennis, and cross-country all involve competition and physical movement. Video games, on the other hand, are commonly regarded as a hobby rather than an actual sport. What most people don’t realize is that videogames have similar criteria that make it a type of sport, as well as having a unique twist that differentiates it from competitive, physical activities. eSports, or electronic sports, are unlike most games that are played in schools. This type of sport does not involve immense physical activity, but instead focuses largely on mental strength to compete with other players. Video games such as Counter Strike: Global Offensive, Super Smash Bros. Melee, and League of Legends are all games that have drastically increased the popularity of eSports.
effort that are needed to be successful in videogames. Just like any other team sport, eSports also requires an immense amount of teamwork and effective communication in order to achieve victory over their opponents, which often goes unrecognized. The sponsorships of well-known multinational companies are a common component found in many other sports. eSport tournaments are also promoted by various electronic sporting industry partners. CocaCola, Geico, and HTC are just a few examples of major companies that have advertised with eSport teams. Additionally, basketball legend Saquille O’Neal is an owner of NRG eSports, which has both a League of Legends and Counter-Strike Team. The world of eSports has shaped the world so much that even professional athletes realize their future potential. Even so, many people refuse to view eSports as a true sport, with one common misconception being that electronic sports are an insult to the intensive physical activity of other
PHOTO BY HELENE KRISTIANSSON
Unknown to most traditional sports enthusiasts, eSports also has tournaments like many traditional sports. Super Smash Bros. Melee is a prime example. It began as a simple party game but has since transformed into a massive world of competitors ranging from hundreds to thousands of people. The popularity of League of Legends, a game featuring an online multi-player battle arena, is another great example. Its popularity continues to increase steadily since its release on October 27, 2009. eSports tournaments allow professional players to compete with each other in a 5 vs. 5 battle. These tournaments exhibit the time and
sports. Most sports channels do not show tournament gameplay, implying that they unfortunately agree with society’s assumption that eSports is merely a careless way to pass the time. Those who oppose eSports fail to consider that gamers still need to hone their skills the same way athletes practice for tournaments. These gamers take video games – what people deem as an illegitimate sport – and practice feverishly to compete with others to see who reigns victorious across the globe. This is exactly what makes the world of eSports a legitimate sport.
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TAKE IT TO THE WICKET By Davenand Harack The word cricket does not only refer to the tiny green insect; it is also the world’s second most popular sport! However, many people do not know how the sport is played or are unaware it has a very rich history and culture. The sport of cricket originated in northern Europe, starting out as game where one player “served up an object” that was commonly a ball, while another player would hit the object with a “fashioned club.” The evolution of cricket in its early stages is shrouded with mystery, such as to how the game developed into a hitter defending the target against the thrower. There is also no evidence of how points were awarded to teams or players, or when and why wickets were first implemented. However around the year 1550, there was evidence of cricket being played in Guildford, Surrey. The first reference to cricket being played abroad was by British residents in Aleppo Syria around one hundred years later in 1676. In 1771, the width of the bat was limited to 4 1/4 inches, as it remains today. In 1844, the first official international match was played between Canada and the United States. More than a century later, in 1975, the First World Cup was played between the West Indies and Australia. A year following, the first women's match was played at Lord's, between England and Australia. Unfortunately, a commonplace belief is that cricket is mainly played only by those of Southeast Asian descent. In reality, cricket can be played and enjoyed by anyone, and is practiced worldwide. In fact, there is an International Cricket Council (ICC) responsible for international play and tournaments. This year, a World Cup was held in India, where sixteen men’s teams and ten women’s teams participated. The team’s competing included: Australia, England, Hong Kong, Ireland, Netherlands, New Zealand, and the Triple Crown champions West Indies.
A Triple Crown indicates that the West Indies won the men’s category, the women’s category and the under nineteen category. Regardless of its worldwide popularity, many North Americans are unaware of how the sport is actually played. Similar to other sports, cricket is played with two teams, one being the “bowling” or “fielding” team, and the other the “batting” team. There are also two sets of three wooden stumps that are referred to as “wickets.” The bowling team is meant to hit the wicket while that batting team attempts to defend it. There is a “bowler” who “bowls” the ball in an over-the-head circular motion to the wicket. If the bowler is successful
PHOTO BY THE ENGLAND AND WALES CRICKET BOARD
in hitting the wicket the batter is out. However, if the ball is hit, the batting team tries to run in between the two wickets and will receive one run each time they do so. If the ball is caught, the batter is out. There are also boundaries that are applied; if the ball crosses the boundary in the air the batters do not run and the team receives six points. If the ball crosses the boundary on the ground, the batters do not run, and the team receives four points. Each bowler throws six balls, after which one “over” is complete. In professional cricket, twenty overs are usually played by each team. There is also a rule that if you get hit with the ball below the knees standing in front of the wicket, a “leg before wicket” or “LBW” would be called and the batter would be out. Cricket may not be promoted as much as Western sports, but it still holds the attention of many serious fans around the world. It is a game that requires focus, athletic instincts, and strategy and continues to rise in popularity across the globe. VOLUME 21 / ISSUE 3 mwplanet 17
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La grande histoire du Petit Prince Par John Velasco
Le Petit Prince est une des histoires adorée dans la langue française, écrite par un aviateur qui s’appelle Antoine De Saint-Exupéry. C’est traduit dans environ 250 langues, et une langue sur la liste c’est une langue Amérindienne. L’histoire raconte à propos d’un garçon sans nom, mais est qui s’appelle Le Petit Prince. Sa vie est extraordinaire. Sur sa planète Astéroïde B-612, il a regardé le coucher du soleil 42 fois chaque jour, ll prend soucie de sa planète pour éviter les arbres « Baobab » et il a rencontré une rose qui a pousser dans le sol de
IMAGE PAR THELITTLEPRINCE.COM
la planète. La Rose et Le Petite Prince a fait une relation intime, jusqu’à la rose a perdu sa confiance, a volé et atterrir sur le Désert Sahara sur la Terre. On voit un narrateur, qui est encore sans nom, qui est un pilot. Il a rencontré Le Petit Prince et ils racontent leurs histoires et apprennent un autre perspective de la vie.
vont évaluer l’étudiante. Elle a été demandé une question simple : «Que serez-vous quand vous serez une adulte? ». Soudainement, La Petite Fille a commencé de dire ces serments à propos de Werth Academie et elle a étourdi nerveusement. Elle a étudié beaucoup qu’elle a oublié les autres choses que le monde l’offre.
Mais dans le film, l’histoire de Saint Exupéry est racontée d’une autre façon en ajoutant de nouveaux personnages. Ça fait l’hiastoire plus intéressante, parce que ça laisse le public de vouloir apprendre d’une autre histoire avec l’histoire originale. Quelques nouveaux personnages sont La Petite Fille (voisée en français par Clara Poincaré et Mackenzie Foy en anglais) et La mère (voisée par Florence Foresti en français et Rachel McAdams en anglais). Leur profil de personnage c’est que la mère s’entrainait sa fille chaque jour avec une horaire très spécifique et très organisée, pour la préparer d’aller à Werth Acadamie, une école prestigieuse, qui fait apprendre les enfants le concept d’être un « adulte ». Mais quand ils sont déménagés sur un voisinage, l’horaire de la Petite Fille est distraite quand elle a raconté le narrateur, qui est très vieux.
Un grande thème qui est inclut dans ce film c’est le concept d’être un « adulte ». Le thème mentionné par la Narrateur de son dessin d’une Boa qui mange un éléphant dans l’histoire de SaintExupéry montre comment le monde des « adultes » on dit ici c’est sombre et mélancolique. On voit des nuances incolores et des immeuble de bureaux, de voir que ces adultes se disent d’être sérieux de travailler et n’ont pas le temps de plaisir pour une fois.
Quand La Mère et La Petite Fille attendent leur examen à Werth Academy, il y a un panel de juges qui
Il y a beaucoup de messages que tu peux apprendre dans ce film, qui va changer tes perspectives de ta vie. C’est un film qui est rempli de citations et citations. On peut dire qu’avec le thème d’être un « adulte », on voit que l’histoire nous prépare pour notre maturité. L’histoire avec la rose montre que nous devons exprimer notre sentiment avant qu’il soit trop tard. Avec Le Renard, on peut voir qu’on doit avoir la confiance avec les autres personnes inconnu. On peut apprendre quelque chose de ces personnes. Le
Petit Prince a appris le mot « apprivoisé », et comment on ne voit pas bien avec le cœur, mais c’est invisible par les « yeux » (Comment on doit voir que nous devons faire ce que nous voulons vraiment faire dans la vie). Et de finir, le thème d’être un adulte nous fait comprendre qu’on ne doit pas mettre nous-mêmes serieusement et trouver l’amusant de toi-même et ta vie. L’animation a fait le film plus vif. C’est comme tu es dans l’histoire. C’est visuel et captivant. Le style d’animation a des images de synthèse mélangées avec l’animation d’argile (image par image). L’animation qui est image par image identifié qu’ils montrent l’histoire actuelle du Petit Prince, par SaintExupéry, que j’apprécie. La bande originale par Hans Zimmer comprend l’histoire qu’elle implique. Il y avait une scène que La Petite Fille fait son algèbre, et la chanteuse Camille à déballer les nombres et les équations, c’est comme tu essayes de faire quelques tâches de mathématiques. Le film a m’apporte la joie, et me remplit avec l’amour, parce que c’est des lectures qu’on peut prendre pendant qu’on va a la vie. De lire l’histoire encore d’une façon visuelle me rappelle le temps que ma professeure en 8ème année nous avons raconté le livre lui-même.
Les vacances d’été, en français! Par Julia D’Silva 1.Télécharger des applications pour apprendre le français, comme Duolingo ou Babbel. Ces applications utilisent des petits jeux pour vous enseigner le français. Essayer de faire un jeu par jour pour vous aider à vous rappeler de la langue français. 2. Regarder des vidéos françaises sur YouTube. Des YouTubers comme commeunefrancaise et frenchpod101 font des vidéos désignés de vous enseigner de choses françaises concernant la culture, la nourriture, VOLUME 21 / ISSUE 3 mwplanet 18
et beaucoup d’autres choses françaises. Leurs vidéos sont presque tous bilingues pour améliorer votre compréhension des vidéos.
changement de la langue vous aiderez à pratiquer votre lecture et compréhension de la langue d’une façon très facile.
3. Écouter la musique en français. C’est très facile de trouver des playlists de musique français sur Spotify. Vous pouvez même trouver des playlists français d’un genre que vous aimez en anglais, comme hip-hop, pop, indie, et plusieurs autres. Choisir un playlist et l’écouter pendant la journee!
5. Regarder des films en français. Il y a beaucoup de films français et québécois que vous pouvez regarder avec des sous-titres. Les films du cinéaste québécois Xavier Dolan, comme Laurence Anyways et J’ai tué ma mère sont très beaux et intéressants. Le fabuleux destin d’Amélie Poulain, Le scaphandre et le papillon, et Les choristes sont des films français qui ont eu du succès critique. Pour un autre défi, essayer de regarder les films sans les sous-titres!
4. Changer la langue de votre cellulaire au français. C’est très simple, mais vous regardez votre cellulaire plusieurs fois pendant la journée, alors le
ILLUSTRATION PAR BIANCA GOMBA
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ROARING FOR
ZOOTOPIA By Christian Nicdao Zootopia is the fifth movie produced by Walt Disney Animation Studios, and was released by Walt Disney Pictures on March 4, 2016. It has been critically acclaimed for its animation, relatable characters, and underlying messages about prejudice and discrimination. The movie was directed by Rich Moore (who previously directed Wreck-It Ralph) and Byron Howard (the co-director of Tangled). Having two experienced directors on board who previously worked on other memorable Disney flicks made Zootopia a well constructed film that captured the attention of viewers, ranging from kids to adults alike. The movie stars featured are: Ginnifer Goodwin, Jason Bateman, Idris Elba, Jenny Slate, J.K. Simmons, Octavia Spencer and Alan Tudyk.
a way that all people can relate to. Zootopia heavily emphasizes the importance of trying your best and never giving up which is accompanied by the song "Try Everything" performed by Shakira. Zootopia also reflects our world, and in our world, not everyone gets along. Many people in our society have assumptions about things they don’t understand and discriminate others based on race, religion, and culture. Zootopia teaches its audience to see through stereotypes, to not have assumptions or prejudices, and to accept who you are despite what others might say.
Another element of Zootopia that makes it a stand-alone animated film are its colourful characters. Judy Hopps is cheerful and optimistic while Nick Wilde is sly and sneaky, and both – despite being given human characteristics – still have aspects of their animal counterpart that make them stand out In Zootopia – where humans never from supporting characters. Judy and existed – the modern world is entirely Nick's partnership has a great chemistry populated by anthropomorphic and does not feel forced in any way. animals (animals that walk on two legs and act like humans). The story centers Adding to the film's characters is around Judy Hopps (Ginnifer Goodwin), outstanding animation that is able a bunny that lives in a town called to bring each of the animals and the Bunny Burrow, who achieves her dream settings to life. All characters are drawn of becoming the first rabbit officer in in a “fleshed out” or line-contour form the city of Zootopia. On her first day that provides proportion, depth and at the Zootopia Police Department, detail. This kind of animation also allows Chief Bogo (Idris Elba) reveals a case for the cityscape of Zootopia to look involving a group of missing mammals. convincing, and was further aided by Judy volunteers to take the case, but including many aspects of cities present is instead assigned to parking duty by in our world such as New York City and Bogo as he feels that she is not the right LA. What makes the city of Zootopia animal for the job. Determined to prove so unique is how it has four different her worthiness, Judy makes a deal with districts to sustain different types of Bogo, promising to solve the case within animals. 48 hours or resign from her job. Without anything to work with, Judy must team The mystery that the characters are up with Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman), a trying to solve in Zootopia is very sly fox that she encounters on one of original and has a lot of unexpected her shifts in order to solve the biggest twists and turns. In a sense, Zootopia case Zootopia has ever seen. is a modernized version of classic detective films such as Murder on the Zootopia was highly praised by its Orient Express and Manhunter, but audience and received a whopping is also a film where parents can take score of 98% on Rotten Tomatoes, their children and still be entertained. making it not just one of the highest Zootopia is both fun and funny for rated animated films, but one of the viewers of all ages, and is a must-see for highest rated films of 2016 so far. What Disney or animated movie fans. made Zootopia successful is how the film expertly manages its themes in
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A BATTLE TO BEHOLD By Daniel Santiago
with drastically unconventional clothing, and in some case deadly weapons. Within this superhero movie it is widely acknowledged that the superhumans portrayed are extraordinarily powerful, causing massive destruction and the deaths of innocent citizens whenever they initiate a villain in conflict.
Despite poor critical reception, Batman v. Superman – Dawn of Justice proved its value by earning a whopping $852,318,506 in their first month at the box office. From the cast, to the special effects, to the plot unfolded on screen, Lastly, Batman v Superman is based the film was something that no one on two memorable and compelling could have anticipated. comic book stories – The Dark Knight Returns by Frank Miller and The WARNING: While this review tries not Death of Superman by Dan Jurgens. to reveal too much, there are spoilers. It is admirable how the filmmakers decided to pay some tribute to these The casting for the three main characters great stories. Ben Affleck’s portrayal of of Batman v Superman is excellent. the Dark Knight is very much like that Henry Cavill portrays Superman in a of Frank Miller’s – both brutalize the gritty manner, whereas actors who have criminals they hunt down and show previously portrayed the Man of Steel impressive feats of strength despite have showed the lighter side of this being past their physical prime. The character. However, the audience could armour and weaponry used by Batman empathize more with Cavill’s Superman in the film are also modeled off of the as his portrayal featured a more human utilities featured in The Dark Knight side to the alien superhero. Ben Affleck’s Returns. In The Death of Superman, the Batman is also very impressive, as he character Doomsday is introduced and shows a Dark Knight who is a defiant features Superman battling the beast and bitter warrior, much like the to the point of their untimely deaths, Batman of DC comics. The character which also occurs in the film albeit in a of Wonder Woman, portrayed by Gal different fashion. Gadot is, in my opinion, better than it’s ever been. This actress’ depiction of Considering all of the elements of the Amazonian Princess Warrior tops Batman v Superman - Dawn of Justice, that of Lynda Carter, who portrayed the this film deserves to be considered character in her live-action television as one of the greatest comic book series during the ‘70s. Gadot’s depiction movies ever produced. The actors who showed a tougher, more warrior-like depicted the main characters perform Wonder Woman than her predecessor. exceptionally, as their depictions represent the characters quite similarly Along with a superb casting, Batman to their comic book versions. The v Superman - Dawn of Justice also themes used in the film illustrate that includes unique and riveting themes superhero movies has come a long that make it dissimilar to films in the way from being light-hearted and Marvel franchise. Batman v Superman predictable motion pictures into much eliminates the unoriginal and unrealistic more mature and complex stories. The theme of the assumed acceptance of film also pays homage to some of the super heroes, refusing to abide by the most intriguing stories published by DC commonplace concept of superhero Comics, which is a welcome bonus to reverence. Instead of illustrating a comic book fans. Batman v Superman society with irrational compliance, the may not be as action-packed as The film addresses the genuine reaction Avengers, but its plot is gripping and expressed by the public regarding the will astonish any audience. existence of superhumans. Batman v Superman depicts the frightened reaction that would be experienced by anyone who encountered a superhero VOLUME 21 / ISSUE 3 mwplanet 19
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Box Office Books Experience at AN EXPENSE By Adrienne Dacoco Book adaptations are not uncommon in the film industry, but in recent years Hollywood has been converting books into movies in a constant stream. The countless production of book-to-film adaptations alludes to Hollywood’s diminishing originality and creativity, as well as its unwavering focus on adapting books that already have an established fan base. The Revenant, The Hunger Games, The Martian, Room, The Divergent series. These books all have one thing in common: they can be enjoyed in the form of words on a page as well as moving pictures on a screen. Book adaptations aren’t necessarily a bad thing. Some books have been made into great films, and sometimes authors are involved in the process to ensure that the films maintain necessary elements and themes of their written word.
IMAGE BY MOVIE PILOT
The problem in our film industry isn’t book adaptations themselves, but the sheer number of them. The movies mentioned above are only a few of the more prominent films from late 2015 and early 2016, and there are many more to come. Bookstores even have a section dedicated to books that have a sticker claiming that they are “now a major motion picture”. This influx of book adaptations points to two things about the mainstream film industry: Firstly, Hollywood is running out of original and creative ideas. Movie theatres are now becoming a sea of remakes, sequels and book adaptations. It has become quite rare for a movie to unfold a unique plot or feature innovative cinematic elements. It can be a surprise to see a title that hasn’t already graced the big screen, or the bookshelves in your local bookstore. VOLUME 21 / ISSUE 3 mwplanet 20
Secondly, Hollywood is making box office dollars their top priority. Books – especially young adult fiction and dystopian trilogies (like The Hunger Games, Divergent, and The Maze Runner) – already have a significant fan base. Book adaptations that have a significant following practically guarantee that the film will garner a large audience, and in turn, a large profit. The last installments of both The Hunger Games and Divergent series have even been split into two films to bring both franchises to their full money-making potential. Book adaptations also present the power of the audience. The announcement of an adaptation of an established book franchise creates a large buzz. The excitement of existing fans is more than enough to spark a fire and reach the curiosity of people around the world, especially with the availability of social media. Long before the movie hits cinemas, lots of people are already talking about it and making plans to see it with their friends. Discussions and debates about concerns such as casting for the characters also fuel the fire, increasing the attention towards the film. It, in a sense, is free advertising. In a way, book adaptations are ‘safe.’ Producing movies are a gamble for Hollywood; it’s always a game of box office “hit or flop.” For a film to be a box office success, it needs a large audience, and with book adaptations, the audience already exists, eagerly waiting for the film to be released. If a movie is new and unheard of, the studio has to rely on heavy advertisement or perhaps an all-star cast to draw an audience. And even then, a film is not a guaranteed hit. New ideas are a huge risk and film studios have begun and started a trend towards safer options rather than risk money being wasted in producing an original movie that may be unsuccessful in the box office. At the end of the day, Hollywood is an industry; an industry that in recent years has become more focused on profit and quantity rather than art and quality. Hollywood has transformed into nothing more than a well-oiled money-making machine. They’ve gotten book adaptations (as well as remakes and sequels) almost down to a science to guarantee the most success in the box office. And it seems like money makes the film reel go around.
By Nancy Aborah-Fei Ticket prices to see one’s favourite artist on tour are expensive, and for a teenager’s pockets it can be painful to spend so much money on one night. Concerts may be a great way to spend an evening, but the fact of the matter is that concerts often cause relatively large amounts of money to vanish from an already small bank account. Not only that, but it may take months and months to save up for tickets. Some may even go as far as to ask their parents to help cover the cost.
sometimes also consist of meet and greet passes -- this privilege almost guaranteeing a price tag upwards of $2000. Taylor Swift is also up there, with her average ticket prices being $262.85. On stubhub, her tickets can be anywhere from $194.00 to $1,116. Parking at a Swift concert and food for two people costs around $30 each, with t-shirts at around $60. Taylor has a very diverse fan base, so her concerts sell out very quickly. She is well aware of the high demand, which means One Direction mimics the way she advertises her ticket prices.
Beyonce concerts are a sure way to have a good time, but they become a burden when they cost $611.85 for two seats at the FORMATION tour. Keep in mind, these seats are in the centre section of the Rogers Centre, where watching the entire concert from the Jumbotron is the only option in order to give your eyes a rest from squinting to see her onstage. Granted, a large source of the income for celebrities is their live shows, but the empty pockets of fans must be considered before ticket prices escalate into the hundreds or thousands. The average price for a concert ticket may be around $113.19, but clever celebrities with an extensive fan base tend to inflate the price even more because of the high demand for tickets. Is it worth seeing Queen Bey when other things need to be paid for?
Why sadden teenagers with these outrageous prices? Getting a chance to view one’s favourite artist(s) would probably make a teenage boy or girl’s life, but some won’t get that chance as more and more people give up on concerts because of ticket prices.
One Direction is the biggest boy band around, and they usually do two nights in Toronto. Both nights are usually sold out, with one ticket near the center sidelines at the whopping price $223. Although fangirls and boys are often willing to go to great lengths to acquire concert tickets, this does not provide justification for the outrageous cost. A seat in the 500-level section of a stadium ranges from $75-$93, while front row tickets are priced between $300-$500. These front row tickets
Entertainers need to start thinking of their fan bases; through thick and thin those fans will be there for them. But in the end, will those musicians return the favour when your last penny is sacrificed for their recent concert? Live show tickets need to be thoroughly thought about – not everyone can always afford them. Many people need to realize the emotional, mental, and financial effect they can have on fans and viewers. Isn’t post-concert depression enough anyway?
The main point of concerts are for the watcher’s enjoyment, but it is also the main source of income for whomever you are going to see. Concerts are for everyone to have a good time, but do not forget about the economical impact it can make in your life. This impact can also lead to emotional stress which often is expressed on many social media accounts where die hard fans express the agony they feel because of not being able to attend their idol’s concert.
PHOTO BY HARPERS BAZAAR
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Nintendo Conquers the App Store By Aiken Chau Nintendo brought Miitomo, its first original smartphone app, to the gaming table this March in hopes of increasing its presence in the mobile community. Miitomo is an unusual social media and game experience, with all of Nintendo’s signature quirks. The app encourages users to answer questions, such as, “What did you have for dinner last night?” or “What’s your favourite tv show?”, which are then shared with friends who can comment on these answers. At its release, the Mary Ward community was quite interested in the app, creating its own online community and posting interactions from Miitomo on Twitter to share with others. Unlike traditional social media platforms where you often interact with new people, Miitomo is a way to
connect with friends who you already know. The experience can become quite hysterical when friends decide to answer questions humorously, turning the environment into a meme filled frenzy. In addition to app aspect, users design their own Miis (avatars), each with their own vocaloid voices, narrating the answers to questions and making the app that much more enjoyable. These Miis can then be dressed up in stylish or funny clothes, from maid and ninja outfits to cat and hot dog costumes, which are bought with coins.
IMAGE BY NINTENDO
This is where Nintendo introduces the profit portion of the game The app is free to play, but players may purchase more game currency in order to buy more outfits, as well as use coins to play a pachinko-pinball style minigame where limited edition accessories can be won. Although most players will opt to play Miitomo without the added expenses, Nintendo is likely looking for ‘whales’ (a nickname for users who frequently spend on app), while promoting its brand on the App Store. After many years of not giving in to developing games for platforms other than its own consoles, Nintendo had finally decided to release content on smartphone devices in order to adapt to the ever-changing entertainment market. Although they have an abundance of original first party software, Nintendo’s new consoles have not had the success of its predecessors. As of January 2016, 12.6 million Wii Us and 57.94 million
3DS systems were been sold, where as Nintendo’s old Wii console had 101 million sales and DS consoles had 154 million. According to Newzoo’s Global Games Market Report, smartphone gaming is increasing faster than ever and overtaking PC gaming in 2016, generating 37% of revenue for the market, whereas console gaming makes up only about 29%. Looking at these stats, it is reasonable that the company has decided to go mobile. Investors have been concerned about the company’s future route, but Nintendo promises that its major focus will still be on creating great games for its own consoles. Although the excitement for Miitomo seems to be decreasing into a lull, Pokemon Go will be Nintendo’s next app for smartphones later this year, along with upcoming Fire Emblem and Animal Crossing apps as well, so fans have a lot to be excited about.
Instagram or insta-cure?> By Serena Singh Instagram has been a popular form of social media amongst teenagers since its release in 2010 and is still used by the vast majority of today’s teenagers. With this power comes great responsibility; one that should be to positively affect its users and how they perceive themselves on an app that lets customers show a highlight reel of their lives. In this regard, Instagram has failed. Looking at seemingly ‘perfect’ people can affect users’ self-esteem in a negative way. A study done by The University of Salford in the UK on social media’s effects on self-esteem and anxiety reported that 50% of their 298 participants said that their “use of social networks like Facebook and Twitter [made] their lives worse.” After focusing on all of their ‘flaws exposed’ by Instagram, users begin to think their flaws represent their value, and they compare themselves to others. Instagram has become the source of a terrible cycle, materializing one’s selfworth; a vicious cycle that only serves
to further destroy users’ self-esteem. Instagram users should take a break from the app when its negative effects get the best of them, and use that time to improve their self-image before diving back in. When asked about Instagram, Hanna Krasnova of Humboldt University Berlin, co-author of a study on the envy generated by social media said: “You get more explicit and implicit cues of people being happy, rich, and successful from a photo than from a status update. A photo can very powerfully provoke immediate social comparison, and that can trigger feelings of inferiority.” This constant comparison, combined with negative comments or a lack of likes, adds up to users spending hours flipping through hundreds of selfies before finding one that can compare to the other photos they see online; selfies they believe will get their followers to ‘like’ them. Of course, Instagram cannot be fully blamed for this new culture of comparison and self-deprecation. Instagram was started as a checkin app, which allowed users to post photos from their location. The creators,
Kevin Systrom and Mike Krieger, didn’t intend for it to become an outlet for people to share every detail of their lives. Body image issues have been on the rise among teens for many years, even before the advent of Instagram and other social media. According to PBS, 81% of 10 year olds are afraid of being fat, and 42% of first to third grade girls wished to be thinner. While social media may contribute to this fear, there are many other forms of media, such as television and magazines, that must also begin to change the way they present bodies in order to lessen their impact on children and adolescents. The rise of self-esteem issues among younger generations is indicative of an underlying problem that social media contributes to, but cannot be entirely responsible for. Once people know that the cycle of comparison exists on Instagram and other social media, users can prevent its debilitating effects. While taking a break from Instagram may not be a realistic solution for many people, there are many other ways to use the app without damaging your self-esteem. Unfollow models, beauty bloggers, and people whose posts make you
IMAGE BY VANESSA DAQUIPIL
feel bad about yourself and your body. Post photos of things that make you happy, whether it’s your friends, your dog, or yourself, and notice that you still get likes. Comment on your friends’ selfies; it will make both of you feel good. There are ways to utilize social media safely and without negative personal effects and they should be implemented by all users of Instagram. The app is supposed to let users show what matters to them, not dictate it. VOLUME 21 / ISSUE 3 mwplanet 21
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MEDIA ARTS ILLUSTRATION BY KAYLEEN DICUANGCO
ILLUSTRATION BY ADELINA PAEZ
ILLUSTRATION BY AIKEN CHAU
ILLUSTRATION BY NINOSHKA PAIS
PHOTOGRAPHY
PHOTO BY MARY-ANNE BUERANO
PHOTO BY MIKAELA CUENCO
PHOTO BY NATALIE ALMOSA
PHOTO BY MARY-ANNE BUERANO
PHOTO BY MIKAELA CUENCO
PHOTO BY NATALIE ALMOSA
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May I Stay in May?
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Summer Vacation By Lucy Ma Summer vacation is almost here The stress of school will disappear You can achieve that goal Those units are under your control I believe you can finish this course, my dear!
PHOTO BY NATALIE ALMOSA
By Yanelle Bardhan-Mendonca the sun he’s setting the way a space shuttle descends onto the moon the greatest touchdown I look and look until I cannot see I don’t feel my eyes melting like dad used to say they would I only feel full it’s minutes later I’m riding down the empty street where I can barely see the end and I can ride in the middle inside my ears some man whines about how “you look so cool” and I’m blinking and the red of the sun still stains my sight I don’t want him to ever leave the air feeling like more? more? more? can’t get enough I’m broken off I don’t find the moon ‘cause she’s hiding within cloud maybe tomorrow as long as it’s may
By Bianca Gomba
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AQUARIUS (Jan 20 - Feb 18) Stressful situations can cause you to fall behind with your units. Try to redirect your focus and remind yourself that summer break is fast approaching!
GEMINI (May 21 - Jun 20) Socializing more than you should results in putting off tasks that need to be done. Spending time with friends is important, but remember that school comes first.
LIBRA (Sept 23 - Oct 22) You’ve got a lot going on between sports, clubs, school, and family. You do a great job at balancing it all, but don’t forget you need to make time for yourself too!
PISCES (Feb 19 - Mar 20) The stress and anxiety of the MayJune rush can get to your head and overwhelm you. Make some time to meditate and relax before getting back out there.
CANCER (Jun 21 - Jul 22) May-June rush has hit and you’ve really found your stride: congratulations! Keep up the good work, but remember to take some me-time.
SCORPIO (Oct 23 - Nov. 21) The stress of finishing courses is making you irritable and overwhelmed. Take a minute and channel happy thoughts to combat anxiety before you take on any more tasks.
ARIES (Mar 21 - Apr 19) All of your hard work has paid off and you’ve managed to finish a few courses early. Take some time to celebrate your achievements, but don’t ignore your remaining courses.
LEO (Jul 23 - Aug 22) You’ve set your sights on meeting the deadlines for early exams, and you probably will. But if you don’t meet them, don’t let it get you down. Refocus and don’t give up!
SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22 -Dec 21) Summer is finally here and it makes you want to spend more time outside. Enjoy the sunshine while it lasts, but keep in mind that units still have to be done!
TAURUS (Apr 20 - May 20) You’ve managed to stay on track with all your courses and you’re almost done. Keep up the hard work and don’t lose motivation!
VIRGO (Aug 23 - Sept 22) You want to spend time achieving the highest marks possible, but remember that units can never be absolutely perfect. Take a load off ; the school year will be over soon.
CAPRICORN (Dec 22 - Jan 19) You’re handing the May-June rush stress really well! Keep living with your calm mindset, and remember that you can accomplish any goal you put your mind to.
By Victoria Castrucci
SPOT THE DIFFERENCE By Kayleen Dicuangco
Are you ready for another edition of Spot the Difference? Find the 10 differences between these two summer pool party scenes. The first person to message us the answers at mwplanet/tumblr.com will win a vectorized image of their face!
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