The Ontarion - 197.2

TABLE OF CONTENTS

3. What is a snap election?

4. Break in occurs on U of G Campus

5. Campus chronicles: student wellness edition

6. “What a huge privilege it is to have an education, regardless of your age!”

7. Guelph city council passes Public Space Use bylaw Going greener with green containers

8. Project Serve celebrates return of volunteering The Central Student Association fall 2024 byelection

ARTS & CULTURE

10. No question about it, this fall Music is the Answer

11. That's "so Guelph!"

12. Artsy volunteering at U of G

13. Arpit's Music Review: top 10 summer albums

14. Upcoming clubs to look out for this year

15. Back to basics: layering

17. Student-run fashion journalism taking flight at U of G

18 & 19. Guelph Jazz Festival gets Guelph grooving

20. Getting yourself on track: simple steps to learning the lifestyle you've always wanted

21. Easy as pie

22. Should I be taking Melatonin?

23. All you need to know about using the U of G gym

24. Celebrating 10 years of research on healthy habits

25. Chappell Roan doesn't owe you shit!

26. There's nothing scarier than a situationship

27. Do a solid for the vampires

28. The Ontarion's costume quiz

29. Carve out some time for these Halloween DIYs

30. Horrible horoscopes

31. It's the season of the witch!

32. From the archives

33. Because we asked... Club of the month

34. October to-do list Pets of the month

35. Puzzle page

What is a snap election?

Navigating the political turmoil that may cause an early election for Canadians

TAYLOR PIPE

There are two words you’ll be hearing a lot in the next year and those words are “snap election”. It’s not a zippy jazz move, or a vote on saxophones. It’s calling a political election earlier than scheduled. It leads to Parliament being dissolved and provides voters the opportunity to select a new set of representatives in Parliament.

It’s also something that might happen a lot sooner than we think.

On Sept. 24, federal Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre put forward a motion for a vote on non-confidence in Parliament. If the vote was passed, it would cause a snap election and get Canadians to the poll to let them have their say on who they wanted in charge of the country.

But what does a snap mean and why is it important?

The current timeline

The next federal election will

be the 45th election and will be held on or before Oct. 25, 2025. However, there is a current bill proposing to postpone this date to Oct. 27 of the same year to accommodate Diwali celebrations.

According to Elections Canada, candidates would have a minimum of 37 to a maximum of 51 days to campaign leading up to the election to convince voters that their platform is the right choice for them.

Voters then cast their ballot on the candidates in their riding. Each riding elects one representative to represent their riding in Parliament. Parliament was previously composed of representatives from 338 ridings across Canada. However, if an election is called now there will be 343 seats based on the 2021 Canadian census. According to Elections Canada, the seats are determined by population equality and are evaluated every 10 years.

Canadians don’t vote for a Prime Minister, rather they vote

for who they want to represent them and their riding in Parliament. The number of seats held by elected representatives from each of the parties determines which party will form a government and who will be the Prime Minister.

Currently, the Liberal Party, led by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, holds the most seats, though they fall short of holding a majority of the seats in the House of Commons. The federal Conservatives, led by Pierre Poilievre, have the second most seats. In third is Bloc Québécois, led by Yves-François Blanchet. The NDP, led by Jagmeet Singh holds the fourth most seats. The federal Green Party holds the fifth.

In October 2025, Canadians will get the opportunity to vote for their riding representative, and by proxy, who they want to become the next Prime Minister of Canada.

That is, if a snap election isn’t called before then.

Dissolving the agreement with Jagmeet Singh

During his third term, Justin Trudeau and the federal Liberals didn’t have a majority of seats in the House of Commons. Trudeau then created a Supply and Confidence agreement with the federal NDP and Jagmeet Singh.. This agreement allows the Liberal party more flexibility to pass legislation and know they will have the votes they need for certain policy

objectives..

However, on Sept. 4, Jagmeet Singh publicly announced that he and the NDP were pulling out of this deal with the Liberal Party.

In a video posted to Singh’s X account, he said he let the Prime Minister know that he “ripped up” the agreement. He said Canadians are fighting a battle for the future of the middle class.

Prior to Singh ending the agreement, Poilievre had publicly urged him to do so and trigger a fall election. Poilievre, who is currently riding a wave of populist support, would benefit from an early election.

Poilievre has made the carbon tax credit a central issue, characterizing the upcoming election as a “carbon tax election,” meaning that the main issue at hand would be whether Canadians agree or disagree with paying a carbon tax.

Singh's withdrawal from the Supply and Confidence agreement has created an opportunity for the Conservatives to force an early election.

How a snap election could play out

In Canada, Members of Parliament, (MPs), are allowed to put motions forth in the House of Commons. One of the most important motions that can be put forward is a non-confidence vote. If the motion is adopted, it triggers a vote where MPs, decide whether the current government still has the confidence of the MPs that

make up the House of Commons. Poilievre tabled this motion on Sept. 24. His speech in the House of Commons was 20 minutes long and Poilievre spoke about restoring the “promise of Canada.”

On Sept. 25 the House of Commons voted on whether they still had confidence in the government. Leading up to this vote, parties like the Bloc Québécois and the NDP both said they wouldn’t trigger an election by voting in support of a non-confidence vote.

The vote did not pass with a final vote of 120 to 211. This means Canadians won’t be heading to the polls in the near future and may get a proper Election in 2025.

But if they were to have voted in favour of non-confidence, Parliament would be dissolved and an election would be called in what some may describe as the snap of a finger.

It’s happened before in Canadian politics, and parties have had votes of no confidence that triggered elections, and they still came back and won the election by winning a majority of seats. This could happen again, however, current polling suggests this snap election would leave us with a completely different House of Commons, with the Liberal Party suffering a significant defeat.

This was the first of what may be many votes of non confidence and we could see Canadians heading to the polls well before our scheduled date of October 2025. It might not even be a matter of if, but simply a matter of when.

If an election is called now there will be 343 seats based on the 2021 Canadian census. PHOTO PROVIDED BY ELECTIONS CANADA

On Sept. 24. federal Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre put forward a motion for a vote on non-confidence in Parliament. PHOTO PROVIDED BY ELECTIONS CANADA

Break in occurs on U of G Campus

The break in occurred on Sept. 22

TAYLOR PIPE

At 3:45 a.m. on Sept. 22, Guelph

Police were called after an attempted break-in at a residence on campus. According to a press release, the residence is located at the corner of College St. and Gordon St.

The release stated that the victim was with friends in a separate room when the incident occurred. She was getting ready to go to sleep and went back to her room.

When she got back to her room, she went to open the door and noticed a male in her room. The male quickly closed the door and locked it.

According to the release, the victim’s roommates were outside and noticed a vehicle with mul-

tiple men outside the building. The roommates thought the men were waiting and confronted them. After the confrontation, the men sped off in their vehicle.

The victim’s jewelry box, backpack and clothing were moved. However, no theft was reported at the time. Police located a damaged screen window near the scene.

Police are asking anyone with information about the incident to contact Constable Cameron Keddie at 519-824-1212, ext. 7431. You can also get in touch via email at ckeddie@guelphpolice.ca. In addition, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or leave an anonymous tip online at www.csgw.tips.

According to a press release, the residence is located at the corner of College St. and Gordon St. PHOTO PROVIDED BY PEXELS

Campus chronicles: student wellness edition

A

look into the Student Support Network at U of G

To say that university is an emotional rollercoaster is an understatement. University is a time of constant new experiences and challenges, from joining clubs to making new friends to discovering yourself, university can be a rewarding experience. However, university can also bring on a great amount of stress. With midterms, thesis papers, and constant lectures, it is easy to get overwhelmed by deadlines and responsibilities.

Luckily, most of the faculty and students at the University of Guelph understand this and provide various wellness resources. The Student Support Network, (SSN), is one of the many wellness resources offered on campus. To learn more about the SSN, The Ontarion met with a few of their representatives.

The Student Support Network is located on the first floor of the JT Powell building on campus. It is open Monday to Friday from 12 to 10 p.m. with online hours from 8 to 10 p.m., and hours dedicated to Black and racialized students from 4 to 6 p.m.

on Mondays.

According to Melanie Bowman, manager of the SSN and Wellness Education & Promotion Centre, the SSN is built up of “a group of highly trained student peer counsellors who provide non-judgmental, confidential support, assistance, and referrals to drop-ins while following the guidelines for peer counselling.”

Peer counsellors are trained in inclusivity, accessible service provision, anti-oppression and anti-racism, sexual and gender-based violence, and safeTALK to ensure proper support is always provided.

The Student Support Network is an amazing resource with many benefits for students. For students who find it difficult connecting emotionally with a mental health professional, the SSN allows students to share “their experiences with fellow students who can often relate given the similarity of age about things like homesickness, relationships [and] sexual health,” said Bowman.

According to Gabe Raposo, one of the team leaders in the

ATHAVI NISHAANTHAN

Student Support Network, the peer group is “an incredibly helpful resource for students, as we can help them figure out how to help themselves. We are a great service where students can vent those feelings to other trained students who will provide validation and support, and potentially will inform [students] about other supports on campus which may cater to their specific needs.”

The SSN understands that Black and racialized students benefit from talking to others who share similar lived experiences. “It is imperative to have dedicated hours for Black and racialized students to connect, share their stories, and receive confidential support from [other Black and racialized] peer counsellors,” said Dr. S. Hardial

Amita Lagare, another team leader in the SSN, said “as someone who has supported Black and racialized drop-ins, these hours are integral to helping students navigate issues and find communities that their white peers don’t necessarily relate to. Supports dedicated to Black and racialized

students help in terms of adjustment and, in my opinion, lead to a better and more profound university experience.”

Overall, the SSN not only provides access to mental health resources for Black and racialized students, but it also is an “invaluable experience for peer counsellors to get hands-on practice of how to create and foster authentic inclusive spaces, among other anti-racism work,” said Hardial.

Peer counsellors undergo training in suicide awareness and sexual and gender-based violence. These issues are frequent topics and occurrences with current youth and it is essential for those providing mental health support to be aware of the signs and how to assist.

Wellness educator, Rebecca Skelhorn, who is certified in Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST), said, “ASIST gives folks the ability to intervene when someone is having thoughts of suicide and create a plan to keep that person safe for now. The more people we have in our community who are

trained in ASIST or the suicide awareness/prevention training safeTALK, the easier it is for students who may be struggling with thoughts of suicide to get help and support.”

Skelhorn also encourages students and staff to complete the sexual & gender-based violence awareness training module on CourseLink.

“[By] understanding and addressing these issues, we can dismantle the culture of violence that exists in many communities, including our own,” said Skelhorn.

Overall, the SSN is a free, inclusive resource for all students at the University of Guelph. It provides a judgment-free zone for anyone to share anything. If you or someone you know is struggling, please consider using the SSN or any of the many other resources provided at the Wellness Education & Promotion Centre.

In the words of Raposo, “We are a community support for students to help them feel welcome and supported in the U of G community.”

To learn more about the Student Support Network, visit wellness.uoguelph.ca/ssn. PHOTO PROVIDED BY FAUXELS

“What a huge privilege it is to have an education, regardless of your age!”

Attending the University of Guelph as a senior citizen student

ILLYRIA VOLCANSEK

“While some people may think of retirement as a time to improve their golf game, I always knew that I would one day go back to school to earn my BA,” said Ingrid Davis, who is 65 years young and starting her first year in the general Bachelor’s of Arts program.

Kelly Hunter and Hilary Holmes, who work with Admissions Services for the University of Guelph, estimate that around 10-15 senior citizens are admitted to U of G yearly.

“Right now I’m focusing on learning some new languages, like Latin and Ojibwe in my Indigenous studies class, before I declare my major,” Davis said.

“I didn’t have the opportunity to go to university after finishing high school, so I chose instead to travel the world before settling down to one career,” she said.

In the years since she graduated high school, Davis has consulted in travel and tourism, worked with special needs children, became a registered nutritionist, and owned two small businesses. She is a mother of three and has been married for 42 years.

“We are so blessed to have landed in Guelph as I have always known intuitively that Guelph would be my university of choice,” Davis said.

There are a wide variety of options available for seniors, including both auditing courses and taking them for credit.

Hunter and Holmes explained that if someone is interested in pursuing a degree, the Bachelor of Arts program is popular due to the flexibility it offers. Popular subject areas include creative writing, studio art, and history. "However, we’ve also had seniors interested in business, computing, science, and our unique programs like landscape architecture and agriculture,” they said.

Davis listed O-week and meeting new people as some of her highlights of starting university.

“I learned a dance with hundreds of other froshers, and the pep rally was a blast. I even made a few friends. In class we have started a study group which will meet in the library, and I know that I will learn so much from the other students,” said Davis.

“I love belonging to this Gryphon community and I’m looking forward to the university experience of studying, homework, assignments and taking my husband to all the hockey, volleyball, and football games,” Davis said.

However, returning to school hasn't been without its challenges.

“Technology has been a challenge as I only had a cursory knowledge of computer skills before I started university," Davis said. "Since then I have reached out to the IT department for help, and my son, a Guelph alumni, has been invaluable on this journey. My husband outfitted me with my very first iPad so I can keep up with the CourseLink slides, even though I prefer to take notes by hand."

Seniors can apply to the Uni-

versity of Guelph by filling out the Application for Senior Citizens form on the University of Guelph applications website.

Hunter and Holmes recommend we recommend that senior citizen applicants consult with an Admission Counsellor prior to applying to learn more about the options available to them (e.g. auditing, Non-Degree Studies, pursuing a credential), as well as admission requirements and documents they need to submit in order to be considered for admission.

According to the University of Guelph website, most senior students have their application fee and tuition waived.

Davis shared, “I am so happy to be here. I feel like I’m always smiling as I walk because I absolutely love the energy of school, and I have such respect for the young people who are beginning their adult lives, wherever it may lead them. What a huge privilege it is to have an education, regardless of your age!”

Senior students can take courses in subject areas like creative writing, history, science, and business, just to name a few.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY PEXELS

Guelph city council passes Public Space Use bylaw

A new bylaw is coming into effect that limits use in sensitive public areas

EMMERSON JULL

ACity of Guelph bylaw regard-

ing encampments on city property will come into effect on Oct. 1 after being ratified in a City Council meeting on Sept. 10.

The bylaw was approved by a 10-3 vote in a special council meeting on Aug. 29. Ahead of the meeting, around 50 protestors gathered in front of Guelph City Hall to voice their opposition. The council heard from 43 speakers from the community and reviewed 62 pieces of written correspondence before approving the bylaw. According to a staff presentation from the meeting, the bylaw aims to “make public spaces owned and operated by the City available for everyone.”

Under the bylaw, encampments will be banned in “sensitive public locations,” like splash

pads, playgrounds, community gardens, sidewalks, and trails.

Additionally, St. George’s Square and Market Square have been designated as sensitive public areas. Temporary shelters are permitted on a time-restricted basis in general public spaces, such as public squares.

Similarly, temporary shelters are permitted in reservable public spaces, such as sports fields and pavilions, when those spaces are not booked for use. Fully permitted locations allow temporary shelters without time restrictions, though according to a Guelph Today article, no more than five shelters may be present at one time.

Additionally, according to the City staff’s presentation, there are no set fines associated with the by-

law. In advance of implementation on Oct. 1, the City will make an interactive Geographic Information System, (GIS), map available to illustrate where encampments are allowed throughout Guelph.

At the same meeting, the council passed a motion to provide up to $450,000 in funding for the Wellington-Guelph Health and Housing Community Planning Table. These funds will be used for the “provision of basic needs for unsheltered individuals in Guelph.” Councillor Erin Caton, who voted against the Public Space Use bylaw, brought forward a second additional motion to develop a plan and budget to provide and maintain essential amenities to Guelph encampments, including portable washrooms and sharps disposals.

Going greener with green containers

A look into the University of Guelph’s new reusable container program

FATIMA ASKARY

The University of Guelph has recently implemented a brand new system to use reusable green containers aimed at streamlining reusable containers and eliminating single-use waste.

Brooke Gregoire, hospitality services and the head behind this new program emphasized the ingenuity of this system

“Our goal was really, this is what I've been telling a lot of people, is to close the loop and create a circular economy,” said Gregoire.

Previously at the University, patrons of the university would need to pay $5 upfront to join the program, then they would receive their first green container. Upon returning this container back to the university, they received a card in return.

They were now participants

of the program and could borrow and exchange for green containers. It was an effective system, but also was very limiting. There were far more containers coming out than in and many people complained of forgetting or losing their cards.

“The goal of the new program is to just have those containers continue to be in the cycle rather than having to continue to supplement every year,” said Gregoire. The new program aims to eliminate these issues. It’s completely free to join and all you need to do is join online at reusables.com and create a reuser ID. This can be directly added to your phone's digital wallet. Once you get set up, you may borrow a green container for 5 days. If not returned in that time frame, you will be charged a fee of $7. Your

phone will send you a reminder before this day and if you still miss it, you have 30 days to get your container back and receive a full refund.

There is a barcode attached to the container so that when you scan the barcode the container can be attached to your name. This eliminates the need to carry a physical card and allows you to borrow and return with a simple scan.

In addition to the program, there is an app you can download called Reusables to complement your participation. This app has features that allows you to view your tangible, real-world impact that results from simply using a reusable container. This includes statistics regarding return rates, number of reuses, and associated emissions reductions.

“Our return rate has gone up to like 98.5 per cent, which means that the people who are participating in the program are just doing such a phenomenal job at being a part of it,” said Gregoire.

For those who still carry their physical container cards

from last year, Hospitality Services will be setting up tables on campus where you can exchange your cards for a voucher for a free coffee or tea. Look out for more details about these pop-up locations on the Hospitality's Instagram page, @hospitalityofuofg.

The Public Space Use bylaw comes into effect on Oct 1. PHOTO PROVIDED BY TAYLOR PIPE

You can easily set up your reuser ID at reusables.com. PHOTO PROVIDED BY SOPHIA MARCON

Project Serve celebrates return of volunteering

Student

volunteers participated in initiatives throughout the local

community

CARLOTA SOUSA

T his year, hundreds of University of Guelph students participated in Project Serve on Sept. 14, a volunteering initiative aimed at giving back to the local community. It is an important tradition at U of G and this year marked the 27th year of Project Serve.

In a University of Guelph news press release, Helen Keen, a local engagement coordinator for the Experiential Learning Hub expressed the importance of Project Serve.

“Our students bring such great energy. They’re excited and want to do so much while they’re out volunteering their time. In Guelph in general, and specifically here at U of G, we have such a deep sense of community

and volunteerism,” said Keen.

Student volunteers are assigned to a local non-profit organization and give three hours of their time to help the organization accomplish their projects. There are more than 20 local organizations that volunteers assist at, including the Guelph Food Bank, Community Living and Guelph Little Theatre. Project Serve initiatives will continue to be held monthly and throughout the school year.

“We always receive such warm messages from our partner organizations after our Project Serve events. It really helps bridge the relationship between the University and the community as a whole to see our students out there and having an

interest in what’s going on in the world around them,” said Keen.

If you are interested in getting involved, Project Serve has

The Central Student Association fall 2024 byelection

Recent vacant executive positions have prompted a byelection

CARLOTA SOUSA

The Central Student Association, (CSA), fall 2024 byelection is currently underway. The purpose of this byelection is to fill open vacancies for executive and board of director positions for the 2024-2025 academic year.

The CSA includes four fulltime paid executive positions including President, Vice-President (VP) Student Experience, VP Academic, and VP External. The winter 2024 general election had attempted to fill these positions for the 2024-2025 academic year, but the voting quorum was not met for any of the positions. Therefore a subsequent spring 2024 byelection was held and the voting quorum was met, which elected and filled all executive positions. However since then, two executive vacancies have emerged

and the fall 2024 byelection is currently looking to fill these vacancies, specifically for the positions of VP Student Experience and VP Academic.

After multiple requests for comment about the vacant executive positions, CSA President Hartej Singh told The Ontarion via email, "We can't tell you about the specific reasons for the vacancies for the VP Academic and VP Student Experience positions. I can share that I received a resignation letter from each executive member, two weeks apart, and both cited reasons for their decision that were unrelated to each other and of a personal nature."

The CSA also includes 14 part-time volunteer board of director positions, two from each of the seven colleges. The fall bye-

lection is looking to fill seven vacant director positions including two for the College of Arts, two for the College of Biological Sciences, two for the College of Social and Applied Human Sciences and one for the Ontario Veterinary College.

For the fall 2024 byelection, the nomination period was held from Sept. 16 to Sept. 25 and the campaigning period started on Sept. 30 and continues to Oct. 4. The voting period is from Oct. 7 to Oct. 11 and if needed, may be extended to Oct. 18. If elected, new members will be ratified on Oct. 30. The CSA will be hosting hybrid in-person polling stations around campus during the voting period. For more information, visit csaonline.ca/elections/fall2024-election.

three more events this year on Oct. 5 at Guelph Centre for Urban Organic Farming, Oct. 19 at Guelph Little Theatre and Dec.

12 at Habitat for Humanity. Head to gryphlife.uoguelph.ca/ organization/svc for more information.

You can begin submitting your votes Oct. 7 to elect executive and board of director positions. PHOTO PROVIDED BY SOPHIA MARCON

Project Serve was successfully held for its 27th year with hundreds of student volunteers participating. PHOTO PROVIDED BY JAMES COOPER

ARTS & CULTURE

Guelph band SHEBAD opened the Guelph Jazz Fest on Sept. 13 and quickly took off for Toronto to play another two shows that Saturday. This busy weekend and slew of concerts come as the band prepares to release their highly anticipated debut album Music is the Answer on Nov.1.

No question about it: this fall, Music is the Answer

Local band SHEBAD will release their debut album on Nov. 1

SHEBAD’s co-founders, vocalist Claire Voy and bassist Ciccio Spagnolo, spoke to The Ontarion briefly about the process of creating this album, one which they are preparing to release with “nervous excitement.”

The band was formed in U of G’s very own Bullring when

BENJAMIN SEATON

Spagnolo, after learning that Voy was a singer, invited her to join in on bi-weekly jazz jams on campus. Voy described how during the pandemic, she connected with Spagnolo and realized that they had something special. It was then that the pair wrote SHEBAD’s first songs.

Since then, the band has welcomed some new additions. They now perform with drummer Emmitt Leacock, keyboardist Emil White, and violinist Bridget Walsh. SHEBAD’s live performances are a sight to behold, blending jazz, funk, and R&B influences. They manage to create an entirely unique sound that encapsulates the band's curious and psychedelic nature. Voy’s vocals blend perfectly with Spagnolo and Leacock’s incredibly tight rhythm section, which is enhanced by White and Walsh’s exhilarating improvisational skills.

Their new album is a culmination of two years of hard work, although the bulk of the recording and producing transpired over this past year. The group discussed how creating this project involved putting a “deep trust” in each other to combat the anxiety of creat-

ing a debut album. But SHEBAD already found success with their first EP. In fact, their song “Terra” now has over 400,000 streams on Spotify.

Spagnolo is excited about this upcoming album.

“Whether it’s our best, our worst, doesn’t really matter,” he said. “I think people are just really happy to hear what we’re making, and that brings me a lot of joy.”

Similarly, Voy expressed her excitement for being able to hear “how the music hits people, and how they are receiving it.” However, there are also struggles with sitting on a project for so long.

“You can get really insular about it all, and get in your own little bubble in your head with these songs,” she said. “Just listening to them in isolation over, and over, and over again.”

The album will feature 10 songs, some of which have already been released as singles. That includes “Waves,” “Faeries,” and the newly released “Black Walnut.” They also have another single titled “Time Takes Time” releasing Oct. 11, which will be their final single before the album release.

SHEBAD will be playing an album release show in Guelph on Nov. 30 at the Royal City Mission. Tickets are available online at goodcompanyproductions.ca/shebad starting from $20. Voy reflected on previous shows in Guelph, saying, “Everyone always shows up and brings such good energy and love.”

There are many ways to support SHEBAD as they launch their new album.

“The best way to support is just by coming to the show,” said Spagnolo. “Staying in touch on social media… Sharing, talking about it, celebrating us, that goes a long way.”

Of course, there are other ways to support them fiscally as well. At their concert, they will have a merch table where they will sell posters and t-shirts personally designed by the band members. They will also sell pressed vinyls of the album, which Voy describes as always being a dream of hers.

Support local music anyway you can, whether that be by attending their concerts, buying a record or merch, or simply just listening to and sharing their music – anything helps.

SHEBAD’s album will feature new songs like “Waves,” “Faeries,” and “Black Walnut.” PHOTO PROVIDED BY SOPHIA MARCON

CUTLINE. PHOTO PROVIDED BY SOPHIA MARCON

That’s "so Guelph!"

Guelph

Culture Days show off our city’s incredible arts and culture scene

ANDREEA BURLACU

Ever wanted to get in touch with Guelph’s artsy side? From Sept. 20 to Oct. 13, Guelph Culture Days bring together the Guelph community to highlight just how creative we are. From “Floral Folklore and Pressed Wildflower Art” to “Alchemy Embroidery,” these three weeks have got events and activities for everyone. And good news: they’re all either free or pay-what-you-can.

“It gives community members an opportunity to get out and see things and try things that maybe they wouldn't do with admission not being a barrier,” said Tammy Adkin, manager of museums and culture for the City of Guelph.

“Culture Days activities open up opportunities to come along and explore.”

Guelph Culture Days’ signature event will be a celebration in partnership with Art Not Shame, an organization that’s opening a new art hub downtown. They’re hosting an open house and block party on Sept. 28, which will have music, hands-on activities, and art exhibitions. It’s a great way to showcase this new community resource. Plus, the Guelph Civic Museum will feature an exhibition called Art As We Are: Creative Community Care to further showcase Art Not Shame’s initiatives.

Other events to look out for include a screening of Amplifying Harriet Miller’s Voice, a film that celebrates Black femininity and healing, the Gwelf Early Days walking tour by JayWalking Guelph, and the Art Gallery of Guelph’s Make-a-thon. A full list of events can be found on the So Guelph hub on the Culture Days website.

Culture Days highlights Guelph’s unique and expanding arts scene. Art shares our lived experiences, brings us together, and inspires the community. It both reflects Guelph’s heritage and contributes to our culture.

CFRU's MONTHLY TOP 10

Adkin said that Guelph has a “unique cultural identity.”

“We call our Guelph hub for Culture Days ‘So Guelph’ because we've often heard people use that term when they see something innovative and creative that combines heritage and arts and environmentalism and activism,” she said. “I think Guelph has a long tradition of creating and supporting arts.”

Community members and students alike can benefit from attending these events and exploring the city.

“This is a great opportunity for students, especially those who

are coming from away, to experience the cultural community as well,” Adkin said. “And with admission not being a barrier, it does make an attractive opportunity.”

So as fall starts and you settle into the new school year, Guelph Culture Days can be a great way to get out, recharge, and appreciate the arts.

“It’s a good time, as we’re settling into routines… to pause, to explore our community, to be inspired by the artists and heritage and cultural organizations,” Adkin said. “The timing is nice, to start the fall off in a really engaging and inspiring way.”

4. BEACH BODY* Count Every Bird (Stan’s House)

5. BLUNT CHUNKS* The Butterfly Myth (Telephone Explosion)

1. MAS AYA* Coming and Going (Telephone Explosion)

2. DAN MANGAN* Being Elsewhere Mix (Arts & Crafts)

3. GHOSTKEEPER* Cipayak Joy (Victory Pool)

6. PAIGE BARLOW* Tabula Rasa (Duprince)

7. BRIAN ENO* Eno (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) (Universal)

SUUNS* The Breaks (Joyful Noise)

HAWA B* sadder but better - EP (Duprince)

SAM WEBER* Clear + Plain (Sonic Unyon)

Appreciate the arts and explore Guelph by checking out Guelph Culture Days this fall. PHOTO PROVIDED BY SARAH ARFAN

Artsy volunteering at U of G

Get creative and make an impact with these opportunities

AMIR MOKRANE BENKELAI

The arts. Love them or hate them, we all have engaged with them in some way in our lives. Whether you use art for entertainment purposes, expression, education, or pure interest, the arts enrich our lives daily.

If you wish to get more engaged in the arts, there are tons of opportunities on campus and throughout Guelph that will allow you to do just that. All the organizations listed below are accepting student volunteers. CFRU 93.3 FM

Founded in 1980, this organization offers tons of volunteer opportunities with no experience required. The application process is simple: just email volunteer@cfru. ca and participate in one general training session. From there, you can decide which of the many departments you would like to engage in.

In the tech department, you can work with sound-engineering

equipment, do live broadcasting, or go out to events to help set up sound. The music department lets you review music, compile weekly charts, and even communicate with local bands. You can do outreach events promoting the station or be a scriptwriter who writes small promotional advertisements for upcoming events in the city.

If media is your thing, there is always the Green Screen Team who work with the green screen available in the studio to produce

content for the station’s Instagram page.

Lastly, what may be the most intriguing aspect to many people is the opportunity to learn how to direct and lead your own live radio show!

The Ontarion

On the same floor as the CFRU is The Ontarion, which you have probably heard of since you’re reading it right now. At The Ontarion, you can develop your journalism skills and learn how a newspaper gets made. If visual arts is more your style, you can also volunteer as a photographer or illustrator. You can even do all three at once if that suits your fancy.

If any of this interests you, email info@theontarion.com with any questions and/or interest in volunteering.

Art Gallery of Guelph (AGG)

The AGG is situated on the corner of Gordon Street and College Avenue East, and is home to the famous Begging Bear.

If you are an avid art enthusiast and wish to volunteer, the AGG has a simple application to fill out on their website,and requires a resume or letter of interest which you can send to info@artgalleryofguelph.ca.

Previous experience is not required and training is provided. AGG volunteer opportunities are within the departments of events and programming, visitor services, collections management, and/or research work.

CASU & College of Arts

The College of Arts Student Union, (CASU), and their associated clubs are always happy to take in those majoring, minoring,, or simply interested in the arts. You can volunteer by joining the executive team of any of the clubs under the CASU, or, for those with the appropriate respective majors, by joining CASU itself as a representative of your College of Arts program.

Executive positions vary from club to club, and usually there is no requirement of being within the specific arts program itself to apply. For the College of Arts, however, you can only apply to be an ambassador of your program. Work involves garnering interest in the program, running events, and much more.

No matter how you choose to get involved, using your passion for arts can inspire others and allow you to leave a mark on the community.

Put your art and your heart together and make a difference this year. PHOTO PROVIDED BY SOPHIA MARCON

ICON BY FREEPIK

Arpit's Music Review: top 10 summer albums

From brat summer to striking chords in A-minor, this season was full of iconic new music

The summer of 2024 had many memorable pop culture events. Kendrick Lamar humiliated Drake and, hilariously, had all of Toronto laughing along with him. The Summer Olympics were held in the beautiful city of Paris, The Umbrella Academy returned for its final season, and Inside Out 2 made people bawl in theatres. The last four months were full of excitement and surprises.

And let’s not forget the music releases. From catchy “Espresso” by Sabrina Carpenter to powerful “Birds of a Feather" by Billie Eilish, this summer’s music was really special. During these past four months, I’ve been listening to and keeping a list of all the albums that truly stood out. These albums made a mark with their lyrics, production, and vocals, showcasing incredible creativity and talent. Each one brought something unique to the table.

10. NXWORRIES - WHY

LAWD?: After waiting for 8 long years, duo Anderson .Paak and Knxwledge came back with a strong and sophisticated second album. Why Lawd? remains true to its R&B core, blending .Paak's emotive vocals with Knxwledge’s inventive, sample-based production. NxWorries offered enough quality to make the wait worthwhile. Let’s just hope it won’t be another eight years before they reunite again.

BEST TRACK: “FromHere (feat. Snoop Dogg & October London)”

9. TEMS - BORN IN THE WILD:

Grammy winner Tems is maintaining her status as the best Af-

rican R&B artist today. On this standout release, Tems’ voice is majestic and angelic, captivating listeners with its depth and emotion. The album’s Nigerian roots add a unique and vibrant touch to its production. Also, Born in the Wild features only two other artists, which allows Tems’ powerful vocals to remain the focal point of the album.

BEST TRACK: “You in My Face”

8. RAVEENA - WHERE THE BUTTERFLIES GO IN THE RAIN: As a South Asian man, seeing another South Asian person getting recognition makes me feel proud and inspired. It shows that we can succeed, break barriers, and make a difference. R&B artist Raveena’s third studio album is an amalgam of her sweet, soothing vocal ranges and pretty production. True to its name, the album is a magical mix of sounds and a safe space– not just for Raveena, but for her listeners too.

BEST TRACK: “Every Color”

7. PORTER ROBINSONSMILE! :D: After the success of his experimental 2021 album Nurture, Porter Robinson is back with his third studio album. The album is packed with poppy and euphoric electronic music production that ranges from indie-pop to rock to emo, and lyrics that are laced with daunting topics such as suicide and depression. SMILE! :D is a powerful album that defines Robinson as one of today’s most gifted producers.

ARPIT VAGHELA

BEST TRACK: “Russian Roulette”

6. THE MARÍAS - SUBMARINE:

This sophomore album by Los Angeles-based band The Marías exhibits their dreamy, immersive, and rich soundscapes. The main highlight of the album is lead singer María Zardoya’s smooth voice, which effortlessly creates a spacious and floaty atmosphere. Submarine is a polished, bittersweet exploration of love and heartbreak. Overall, The Marías perfectly created an immersive audio experience that deeply touches the listeners’ soul and body.

BEST TRACK: “Hamptons”

5. BILLIE EILISH - HIT ME

HARD AND SOFT: Eilish’s newest album boldly combines innovative production with personal storytelling, showing her impressive growth as an artist. Eilish's songwriting is complex and vulnerable as she explores her sexuality, fame, relationships, and self-discovery. The music and production on this album are adventurous and hard-hitting, from hypnotic electronic beats to heavily autotuned vocals. The album also features unique elements, like string quartets amidst Eilish’s impressive vocal range.

BEST TRACK: “L’AMOUR DE MA VIE”

4. KNOCKED LOOSE - YOU WON'T GO BEFORE YOU'RE SUPPOSED TO: I have a special love for the metalcore genre because it’s so underappreciated. Knocked Loose’s third album solidifies their place as pioneers

in metalcore– it’s their strongest work yet. Instead of softening their sound to appeal to a wider audience, Knocked Loose has doubled down on their heaviness. Each of the album’s 10 tracks sound like you’re getting hit by a truck going 150 miles per hour but you still want to get hit again and again. With strong production, the band mixes loud vocals and instruments with careful, clever details. The result is a powerful and cohesive album that breaks conventions.

BEST TRACK: “Sit & Mourn”

3. JPEGMAFIA - I LAY DOWN MY LIFE FOR YOU: JPEGMAFIA continuously pushes boundaries, blending and experimenting with genres such as hip-hop, industrial rock, and glitch-pop. Every track on his fifth album is a mix between abrasive sounds and soulful transitions. Peggy’s sampling skills and strong pen game shine throughout, especially with collaborations with Vince Staples and Denzel Curry. The album also reflects on personal topics, ending on an emotional yet hopeful note.

BEST TRACK: “SIN MIEDO”

2. MAGDALENA BAY - IMAGINAL DISK: The LA synth-pop duo Mica Tenenbaum and Matthew Lewin build on their surreal, vaporwave sound with their second album. Imaginal Disk is rich in production and lyrics as it dives into the themes of self-transformation and sci-fi. Each song has unique and distinct vibes, and

with seamless transitions, the project feels like you're taking a trip to an alien planet. Overall, Imaginal Disk stands out for its originality and creative ambition, exhibiting Magdalena Bay as a duo unafraid to push musical boundaries.

BEST TRACK: “The Ballad of Matt & Mica”

1. CHARLI XCX - BRAT: There is no way to describe how groundbreaking and extraordinary this album is. As Charli xcx's sixth studio album, Brat is a dazzling and ambitious album that stands out as a career highlight. Brat is a nostalgic nod to the mid-2000s club scene, featuring catchy songs that pay homage to French dance music and genres like acid-house and electro-house. Charli's lyrics dive into themes of jealousy, self-awareness, and personal growth, reflecting on her past and present with raw honesty. The track dedicated to SOPHIE, “So I”, is the most heart-wrenching and vulnerable track she’s written. Brat stands out as one of the year's best releases, mixing energetic club anthems with introspective, heartfelt moments. It’s simultaneously fun and addictive while holding a lot of emotional weight to it.

BEST TRACK: “365”

HONOURABLE MENTIONS:

Kacy Hill - Bug

200 Stab Wounds - Manual Manic Procedures

Denzel Curry - King of the Mischievous South Vol. 2 Clairo - Charm

beabadoobee - This Is How Tomorrow Moves

The only thing hotter than the summer weather was the fresh music releases. PHOTO PROVIDED BY TAYLOR PIPE

Upcoming clubs to look out for this year

AMIR MOKRANE BENKELAI

Wish to get involved in campus life and help out some clubs at the university? Some non accredited clubs are looking to receive accreditation. If you did not know, accreditation is the process by which a student club gets recognised either by a college government or the Central Student Association, (CSA). They become better able to run events, book spaces, and end up on the GryphLife page, where you can view all accredited clubs and their upcoming events.

Non-accredited clubs are

usually new and in the process of building a member base. Part of the application process for clubs involves getting 25 members to sign up with their name and email address. So, these new clubs need members to sign up and show interest to get things running. Here are some new clubs hoping to get accredited.

Balkan Students Association

Starting off is the Balkan Students Association, who are looking to connect the Balkan

community at U of G. However, they are also open to students who would simply like to learn more about the culture and traditions. So, if you are of Balkan descent, or are simply interested in learning about the region’s traditions and culture, you can check them out on their Instagram @balkanstudentsuofg.

Guelph Trivia

From the Balkans, we travel to the lands of trivia. Yes, that’s right, there is a trivia club at U of G called Guelph Trivia. Here, you can test your knowledge, travel across the province for tournaments, and play Quizbowl. According to the club’s Discord,

“Quizbowl is a buzzer based trivia format similar to Jeopardy, where two teams of four race to buzz in.”

With several similar clubs around the country, this club seeks to get accredited as soon as possible to become better able to participate in competitions. They are reachable by Instagram @uofgtrivia, or you can join their Discord server.

U of G Lettuce Club

From trivia, we now head to a green and rather crunchy land with the UofG Lettuce Club. The concept of a “lettuce club” was born from a viral Tumblr post. It is, at its core, a student organization in which members compete to see who can first finish eating a head of lettuce – yes, a whole head, which usually has to be medium or average size – and the first person to finish their head wins. The winner becomes president, and must take on the responsibility of organizing the next lettuce head eating competition.

It is “an incredibly green and leafy idea that many universities across Canada have implemented,” said Kiera Carter, founder of the club at U of G. “At least a hundred students showed up [to the unofficial lettuce club event].”

Carter added, “Since then, I’ve been applying for accreditation and thinking about many lettuce-related events [that are] more than just a lettuce-eating race, although that will be the main yearly club event.”

Clearly, the club has some great aspirations, and your signature could aid in the process. If this interests you, the club can be

reached by Instagram @lettuceclubuoguelph.

Snacks & Smiles

This altruistic club is aiming to help “stop food insecurity in public schools in our community,” as stated on their Instagram page. They are looking for members to help them with achieving this goal, and you can learn more as well as sign up by visiting their Instagram page @snacksandsmiles.uofg.

U of G Writer’s Association

Dedicated to all forms of writing, the UoG Writer’s Association is the only club on this list looking for accreditation with the College of Arts Student Union rather than the CSA. The owner, Gayathri Vangala, describes the club on Discord as “a hub for students who enjoy writing, and are looking to mingle with like-minded Gryphons.” She added that the club’s goal is “encouraging these students to invest in their writing skills by forming bonds with other writers.” So, if the pen or pencil is your weapon of choice, you can reach them through their Discord, or their Instagram @uofgwritersassociation.

Want to find out more?

Coming to the end of this article, there are, of course, a couple clubs that could not be added to this list. But you can find more clubs on the Discord Hub or by browsing the unofficial U of G subreddit, where upcoming clubs post their info.

Getting involved in clubs is a great way to meet new people and discover new interests. PHOTO PROVIDED BY SOPHIA MARCON

Accredited clubs are able to book spaces, run events and get onto the Gryph Life web page. PHOTO PROVIDED BY CSA

BACK TO BASICS: LAYERING BACK TO BASICS: LAYERING

How to stay warm and look cool this season

MAIA GALLETTA

T

he season of unpredictable weather has arrived— the time of year when brisk mornings turn to warm afternoons then to freezing nights faster than the blink of an eye. You may have found yourself bundling up for a chilly early morning lecture just to wind up breaking a sweat on your walk home, or leaving an evening study session at the library wishing you had a jacket. If that sounds like you, here is the ultimate guide to mastering comfort and style with the art of layering!

your outfit, you’ll likely want to throw on a sweater because we all know how chilly those walks between classes can be without one. From chunky knit patterned sweaters to cozy university crewnecks, the options

Begin with the basics

The foundation of any effective sys tem always starts with a solid base layer. Building a capsule wardrobe— a minimal ist collection of timeless clothing that can be easily mixed and matched— is a great way to start! A few pairs of jeans, t-shirts, tank tops, long-sleeved shirts, and some basic athleisure-wear pieces are all essen tial for your fall wardrobe. Neutral colors such as black, white, beige, and gray are key when it comes to base layering pieces since they are easily interchangeable with other items. The good news is that there’s

in your closet is a versatile lightweight jack et. Instead of opting for heavy outerwear such as a puffer coat, aim for a jacket that can be worn both indoors and outdoors. For instance, leather and denim jackets offer warmth with a stylish touch that works well indoors. Vests are another fantastic option— they can be worn zipped up for extra warmth or left open to showcase your sweater underneath.

To finish off the look, accessories can be added to serve fashion and function at the same time! While accessories can be seen as something to elevate the look of an outfit, you can also use them in your favor when it comes to staying warm this fall. Patterned scarves have a great purpose when it comes to layering, as they can add warmth and a pop of color to your look. Slouchy socks are also a perfect accessory, whether you’re lounging at home or heading out for a day on campus. They can be worn around the house for ultimate relaxation, or peeking out from under your favorite pair of jeans for a casual look.

As we move through the fall semester and the weather continues to shift, remembering these tips will help you navigate the chilly campus life with ease and style!

Exploring textures in sweaters is great during the cooler months. PHOTO PROVIDED BY PEXELS

It’s

Student-run fashion journalism taking flight at U of G

Monarch

Magazine editor-in-chief Mateja Mara Bubaš talks collaboration, creativity, and her hopes for an inclusive and growing fashion scene in Guelph

EMMA WILSON

Fashion can be one of the most far-reaching modes of self-expression. Knowingly or not, we communicate something about ourselves every time we get dressed, in turn taking in others’ expressions and influences. Fashion and style are personal as well as collective, indicative of the environment around us. In this way, fashion is a constantly fluid and collaborative domain.

Third-year student Mateja Mara Bubaš wants to showcase fashion and community by forming University of Guelph’s first student-run fashion magazine. As well as exploring her passions for photography and style, Bubaš hopes that Monarch Magazine will be a space for all contributors to flourish and develop creatively.

As an English major with a minor in studio arts specialising in photography, Bubaš explained that while she has experience in writing and creating, being the Editor-in-Chief of Monarch will be her first experience of its kind. Bubaš is no stranger to leadership. In Grade 12, she was her school’s student council president in addition to running clubs. When transferring from the University of Waterloo to Guelph, Bubaš looked to join a club in fashion journalism, which she described as her “life aspiration,” and was surprised at the lack of options.

Instead of feeling discouraged, Bubaš took this as a sign to create. Passionate and excited,

Bubaš spoke of the work that has gone into Monarch thus far since its inception about a year ago, including research and the recruitment of other creatives. She said the magazine’s Instagram account @monarchmagazineguelph has been their main catalyst for recruiting people.

Positions include head of photography, director of model casting, and a communications representative, to name a few. Though these positions have been filled and applications are now closed, Bubaš has big goals for the future of Monarch.

“It’s kind of been a project that I want to use as a way to bring together creative students, and also establish more of a fashion scene in Guelph,” she said.

From inspiring students to analysing their trends, Monarch Magazine is aiming to “be a huge mosaic of everyone– of their work, of their ideas, of their visions”. As for what specifically to expect, Bubaš teased that people will just have to read to find out. With the goal of being a regularly printed magazine, Monarch’s first issue is expected to be out sometime in November.

The specificities of Monarch’s fashion journalism may be a mystery for now, but readers can look to Bubaš’s own influences for what to anticipate. In terms of fashion journalism, Bubaš’s biggest guide has consistently been Vogue Magazine. Smiling to herself, Bubaš

recalled a collection of Vogue prints that she’s had since the age of six, calling the magazine classic and timeless. In combining such vintage inspirations with modern elements, Bubaš looks to include traditional aspects of a fashion magazine, as well as a variety of different art forms related to fashion, such as article writing based off of their own photoshoots.

Bubaš’s other key influences are Wilfrid Laurier University’s Hawk Style Magazine, and actress and style icon Jane Birkin (namesake of the Birkin bag). It’s apparent that fashion means much more to Bubaš than clothes, though they can certainly hold great significance. In describing Birkin, she went beyond the apparel, saying, “She’s so free-spirited, and I love that. I get a lot of inspiration from that– her attitude not towards just fashion, but her attitude towards life in general.”

As for advice on how others can find their own style, Bubaš recommends utilising Pinterest, thrifting, and Depop, an app where anyone can sell vintage or second-hand clothing. This is representative of another one of her passions: sustainability. In the age of fast fashion, trends are fleeting and it can be hard to find your style if you focus on fitting in. Instead, Bubaš says to treat personal style like an “art project.” If starting from the ground up seems daunting, Bubaš simplifies it, advising to notice what you like, whether

that be a certain silhouette or colour palette.

Monarch Magazine is sure to emphasise style and creativity on campus as well as in the community. Whether you’re interested in fashion photography or self-expression, Monarch looks to include a multitude of different ideas, passions, and joys of fashion. Until Monarch’s release in November, check out their Instagram @ monarchmagazineguelph for updates and fashion tips.

Monarch's first issue drops this November. PHOTO PROVIDED BY PEXELS

Guelph Jazz Festival gets Guelph grooving

Highlights of the 2024 Guelph Jazz Festival, where music meets community

STORY BY ELLIE PETRAK &

BY SOPHIA MARCON

On Sept. 13-15, Guelph held its annual Jazz Festival, where artists from all over the world came to perform and share their art and music. The stacked lineup included the Darius Jones Trio, All Wild Things Are Shy, Bodywaltz, Glass Elephant, SHEBAD, Splendid Abysse, fLuXkit Vancouver, and Luka Kuplowsky & The Ryokan Band.

Much of this year’s programming focused on underrepresented genres, free jazz and free improvisation. The festival showcased local musicians and diverse bands from around the world. It aimed to feature performers who may not receive attention in mainstream music scenes, fostering an environment where audiences can discover and support new artists.

“We prioritize local artists and aim to create an exploratory atmosphere,” said Interim Artistic Director Karen Ng. “This isn’t just about familiar names, it's about discovering something new.”

This year introduced an exciting blend of performances and community activities, including dance workshops that allowed participants to explore traditional dance styles.

“The festival offers a warm

welcome, a way for people to connect and discover what Guelph has to offer,” said General Director Alex Ricci. “I have memories from being a kid and going to the Jazz Festival because it's been happening for almost my entire life. Almost all of us who grew up in Guelph have a memory of going.”

This year, the festival had over 80 volunteers, many of whom have returned for their 5th or even 10th year.

“We encourage everyone to keep in touch and support live music, whether by attending events or volunteering,” Ng said. “The more people support local arts, the more we can continue to grow.”

The Guelph Jazz Festival has become a cornerstone of the community, fostering connections among residents, students, and local businesses. As it’s right in Market Square, it’s a vibrant and essential part of Guelph’s cultural landscape. The vibrant, high energy bands and DJS create a dynamic space for community engagement.

“Having [the bands] play at Market Square off the stage and right beside the audience was a really cool way of bringing that music directly to people,” Ricci said. “Often, people would be really into

the energy and start dancing on the streets.”

Not only has this street party vibe become a cherished aspect of the Guelph Jazz Festival, but it has also presented opportunities for festival-goers to discover local businesses in the downtown area.

A representative from 10C Shared Space highlighted the positive impact of the festival, such as the increased foot traffic and lively atmosphere in downtown Guelph. Local businesses also benefited from the festival's presence and called for more year-round events to sustain this vibrant energy.

With rising costs impacting the arts in the Guelph community, organizations are increasingly focused on sharing resources and building partnerships to ensure their sustainability. The festival aims to identify innovative spaces for music, leveraging locations with unique views and atmospheres to create dynamic experiences for attendees.

"It becomes its kind of own little community of businesses that are making the festival better by participating, staying open later, adjusting to the circumstances and really being enthusiastic about how many people are there and

enjoying it," said Ricci.

Returning venues like Silence, Youth Music Center and Royal City Mission have played a significant role in the festival, hosting various installations and events. Specifically, Silence is important to the local art scene as it showcases alternative music and local artists year-round.

The festival has also established strong relationships with local businesses. This year, 10C Shared Space served as the festival headquarters, hosting the artist green room, catering, and volunteer check-in. The Cornerstone contributed by presenting music as part of the Jazz Around Town program, Atmosphere Cafe provided meals for artists and volunteers, and Sweet Candy Shop supplied candy for the installation by Jermaine Liu and Mark Zuroinsky.

The organizers hope the community engages with and supports these venues and businesses beyond the festival.

“In a very challenging time, we exist because of the support of the community," Ricci said. “There's been so much support over the years that allows artists who live here to flourish and to feel like what they do is actually

meaningful because there are people who care and who show up.”

The success of the festival would also not be possible without the talents, effort and care of the artists and musicians that participated.

Musicians and Guelph Alumni, Germaine Lui and Mark Zurawinski created a free installation, hosted at Silence, called We Made This (With Love). Inspired by the theme of "nerds," Lui and Zurawinski creatively reimagined their previous work through an innovative multimedia approach. The project featured audio-visual sound art collages presented on five projections that were randomly selected to intersect and overlap.

The videos themselves were a blend of improvisation and planned sequences. The visuals were created using a blend of different candies, instruments and movements. They began with simple movements like poking and then evolved into more complex gestures. Recording occurred in real time, allowing for spontaneity between the videos.

The installation featured multiple unique sounds, including a synthetic bass drum triggered by hitting a nearby floor tom, which

PHOTOS

Expanding on a project presented at the Music Gallery last year, this installation aims to disrupt viewers' expectations by presenting the videos on a loop, ensuring no two experiences are the same. Drawing inspiration from both the candy "Nerds" used in the projections and the concept of nerd culture itself, the artists included a candy station, complete with a collection of found objects and percussion instruments so that viewers can engage and experiment with their own sounds.

The installation invited participants to engage in a dialogue about the sensory overload that contemporary life often presents.

“If you watch for a while, it'll feel a little bit like you've had too much candy,” said Lui. “It provides an experience of hyperstimulation using a blend of colour, shape, and texture.”

The duo also focused on sustainability by incorporating recycled materials such as painted cardboard found outside a local bike shop into their setup. This handmade aspect is reflected in the uneven lines and folds of the boards used to show the projec-

tions.

On day 2 of the festival, drummer Nick Fraser partnered with his long-time collaborator, saxophonist Tony Malaby and prominent contemporary jazz pianist Angelica Sanchez to perform a unique, intense and lyrical experience at the Guelph Youth Music Centre.

While the three musicians are experienced in playing music that is completely improvised, they decided to use a few sketch compositions that would provide a landing and takeoff point for the concert.

“We rehearsed them at soundcheck, of course,” Fraser said. “It went differently than we expected, because that's the nature of those compositions. They're going to be malleable.”

Playing the drums since he was 8 years old, Fraser has been strongly influenced by the lessons he took with his West African teacher, Ibrahim Gueye.

“That background in African rhythm is something that stayed with me a lot because so much of the music we make has its origin in African music,” Fraser said. “When you talk about what jazz is, it's not separable from African rhythm.”

Fraser is inspired by those he grew up with and the colleagues he continues working with today.

“Tony and I have collaborated a lot over the last 10 or 15 years,” he said. “I met him when I was about 20. We were both students at a jazz camp together. He's just been a guiding light for me, I love his approach, he's really committed to improvising. I love his sound and I just think he's a great musician and a role model for me. And I've listened to Angelica's music a lot. I think she's wonderful and an amazing musician.”

This history of collaboration, familiarity and appreciation for one another’s work made for a great combination of style and sound from the three seasoned artists.

As a returning artist at the Guelph Jazz Festival and a Doctoral student at the University of Guelph’s critical studies and improvisation program, Fraser holds a great appreciation for the Guelph Arts community. So do many other artists involved with the festival.

Philipe Lauzier, a bass clarinet player from Quebec from the quartet Splendide Abysse, said that it’s always been a great and welcoming experience in Guelph.

“Not all festivals will have this

space where you can interact with and meet the other artists, which is very important,” Lauzier said.

While the festival featured esteemed artists, it also highlighted the importance of local connections and personal stories.

For the final show of the festival, the community celebrated the legacy of local singer-songwriter Richard Laviolette. Laviolette was diagnosed with Huntington's disease, a condition that also affected his mother, whom he cared for until her passing. Laviolette’s condition deteriorated rapidly and he passed on Sept. 5 of last year. The album he had worked on during the last months of his life was released through You've Changed Records, accompanied by a series of shows in cities meaningful to him, including Guelph. Ng said that this show encapsulated the essence of Guelph, “a blend of community spirit and shared experience.”

The band, having prepared for this moment over the past year and a half, created an environment that allowed individuals to engage with their emotions alongside the music.

“This space offered everyone the opportunity to process their grief in their own way,” Ng said.

The event served not only as

a tribute to Labiolette’s artistry but also as a celebration of community resilience, connection, and the shared experience of loss.

“A lot of people would wonder what the connection is to jazz with the show. And I just felt it was really important to remember that music can also have a function of bringing community together,” Ricci said.

For those interested in getting involved with the Guelph Jazz Festival in the future, there are countless opportunities. You could volunteer at the Festival or attend city council meetings to advocate for arts and culture in the Guelph community. You can also contribute by staying connected through newsletters, social media, and donations or becoming a member of their annual general meeting.

Not to mention, attending live music events is essential for ensuring the festival's future success. Supporting the local music scene today will help guarantee that the Guelph Jazz Festival and our downtown core continue to thrive in the years to come.

Be sure to follow @guelphjazz on instagram or check out guelphjazzfestival.com for more information.

caused the Nerds candies to move and vibrate.

Getting yourself on track: simple steps to learning the lifestyle you’ve always wanted

An introduction to the Guelph Guru Series

JORJA ALLEN

Are you tired of feeling disconnected from yourself? Do you ever wonder why you feel so unmotivated or so uninspired?

Don’t worry you’re not alone. You actually aren’t stuck. And you actually can strive for more in life. It is possible. It is attainable. And the best news is you can always start over. You can always make positive changes in your life!

But I know it all seems overwhelming and difficult at the beginning, so I’ve created this column to make things more digestible for you. All I ask is that you show up to this column every month as

you, for you.

This column is designed to help you tackle health and wellness once and for all! Because every month you are going to show up, learn something new about healing, learn how to implement this new tool and then feel the benefits of this lifestyle.

We’re going to be covering the importance of sleep, exercise, nutrition, selflove, stress, and so much more.

And I’m not going to just list the facts as to why these things are important for you – you already know this! I’m going to make you feel the benefits and encourage you to take on new habits to create the life

you have always wanted.

It’s going to be all you can think about. You are going to become addicted to being the best version of yourself – and as you should! It’s your life. It’s time to start making the most of it!

Do this for yourself. Commit to you. Choose you.

Put in the work. Now is the time. You are in the back-to-school hustle. You are feeling productive. This is the perfect time to make some changes.

But the problem most people face is that they choose to attack health and wellness like it is some kind of battle. They see it as all or nothing. But it’s not like that at all.

The beauty of health and wellness is that it’s gradual. You are a living, breathing, beautiful human being. You need to tend to your growth and put in the work daily to reap the benefits.

And the best thing is you can always make changes. If something doesn’t feel right. Then it's not right. You may feel stuck because you are not living in alignment with your true purpose. And by purpose, I don’t mean your existential passions, by purpose, I mean your daily function to be alive - to live, breathe and move!

Yes, you are human. Your ultimate function is to live and to live is to feel healthy and whole. To be excited about all you have to offer this world. To show up every day as the best version of yourself.

Wellness originates in the mind and translates to daily external experiences. You change your thoughts, you change

your world. Thus, a healthy mind leads to a healthy body, which leads to a healthy spirit and healthy energy, thereby creating a healthy and happy life. Energy comes from taking care of yourself and your well-being. With every little habit you embrace, you propel yourself further towards fulfillment. It's not about massive change. It's about consistency.

You deserve to be happy. You deserve to be energized. And you can do it.

Just take it one step at a time. One month at a time. One habit at a time.

To start, I want you to sit with yourself. Get clear on what you want, and why. Think about how you feel and how you want to feel. Write it down. Make it clear for yourself. Lay it all out. Hold yourself accountable. You can even write it as a letter to your future self because tomorrow you show up as them. You act as they would act. And when you need extra help or extra guidance, you come back here and you develop the new habits we are about to explore!

Being mindful is the first step. So open your mind up to the possibility of your potential. It's the greatest gift you can give to yourself. You deserve it. So go and get it!

It starts with you and it starts NOW.

Lots of Love

Jorja Allen is taking you on a wellness journey this school year. PHOTO PROVIDED BY JORJA ALLEN

ILLUSTRATION PROVIDED BY PAIGE STAMPATORI

Easy as pie

Trying out a student friendly pumpkin recipe

AMIR MOKRANE BENKELAI

Pumpkin season is here!

As October rolls in, and we get deeper into fall, pumpkin will be the main ingredient in all our recipes once again. But with food prices rising, seasonal baking may seem

like an impossible task, especially for students. So, to help out the budget-conscious bakers out there, we have found the best way to make a classic pumpkin pie that is as cheap as possible, yet rich in flavour.

Ingredients

The recipe calls for:

• 15 oz. pumpkin puree (canned or homemade)

• 14 oz. sweetened condensed milk

• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (or 2 eggs)

• 1 tablespoon pumpkin spice

You can also create your own pumpkin spice by mixing:

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon ginger

• ½ teaspoon allspice (or ¼ teaspoon clove)

• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg

For the pie crust, Dollarama sells premade 9 in. graham cracker pie crusts for $2.25 each. It even comes with aluminum foil which you can use instead of a baking dish. Please note this crust may contain eggs, sulphites, and/or soya as mentioned on the packaging. If you prefer a different recipe for the crust, keep in mind that cooking time may differ.

Finances

Walmart sells pumpkin spice for $4.47,Great Value sweetened condensed milk for $2.77 per 300 mL, Great Value cornstarch for $3.77, and eggs for $3.97.

As for pumpkin puree, you have a couple options. Walmart sells whole pumpkins for around $3 if you have the time to cut them up and mash them into a puree. Otherwise, E.D Smith canned pumpkin is a great option for $6.67.

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375 F

2. Whisk together the pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, cornstarch, and spices in a medium sized bowl until creamy

3. Pour the mix into the crust

4. Cook for 50-60 minutes, or until firm. You can check the doneness of the pie by poking a knife in–if it comes out clean, it is done cooking.

5. Refrigerate for 2-4 hours before enjoying

Got leftover pumpkin? Make pasta sauce! Add oil to a pan, toss in three to four cloves of garlic (or 1 tablespoon of jarred minced garlic), and simmer until golden. Then, add in 15 oz. of the pumpkin puree, salt, pepper, a sprinkle of pumpkin spice, and 1 cup of pasta water. Mix until creamy. Throw in your pasta, and you're done!

You can make more than pie with pumpkins. PHOTO PROVIDED BY INNA HEASLEY

The best pumpkin pie is the one you make yourself. PHOTO PROVIDED BY AMIR BENKELAI

Should I be taking

melatonin?

Tips for better sleep, and why melatonin may not be right for you.

BENJAMIN

SEATON

Ihaven’t slept right since the sixth grade.

Every night in bed I do the hokey pokey, I put my left leg in, I take my right leg

out, then I put my right leg in, and I put my left leg out, and at some point, I turn myself around at least a few times.

I’ve been told everything. I’ve counted more fish jumping than a sailor, and taken down more bottles of milk off the wall than a dairy farmer. Someone told me to count down from a thousand one time, and on my third repetition, I got quite bored. Suffice it to say, I can’t find a way to fall asleep, and nothing seems to help.

In high school, a friend told me to try melatonin. I found a spray bottle with a wide green cap. It was made by a company with a name similar to that of an Irish whisky, which evidently would help me fall asleep better than the melatonin. But why, what is it about melatonin that seems to be a miracle for my friends, but has never been anything to me other than candy?

To find out, I sat down for a conversation with Kathy Somers who works in the Stress Management and High Performance clinic on campus. Somers works with clients to help them gain skills and techniques for falling asleep.

Somers explained how “Melatonin is a chemical our body makes, and up until the age forty, it’s very actively producing this chemical.”

Naturally, the initial thought after hearing that is why should I take melatonin if my body is already producing it?

“Research tells us that melatonin shines as a chemical to help with our sleep rhythm,” said Somers.

Essentially, young people should only use melatonin temporarily as they try to get their sleep schedule back to a regular time. For instance, if you have just returned from a vacation in Madrid where the time zone is six hours ahead, melatonin could be useful on those first couple of nights back.

Melatonin is also not recommended for use during pregnancy, breast-feeding, or by an individual with a liver disease.

It’s important to note that melatonin only works if you are sticking to a consistent sleep/wake schedule. It’s also import-

ant to note that melatonin fails as a sleeping medication for people with insomnia.

Insomnia is defined by meeting one of four characteristics. An individual with insomnia may have difficulty falling asleep, have difficulty staying asleep, they might wake up too early in the morning and not be able to return to sleep, or they may not feel well-rested after they awake. If you are experiencing insomnia, melatonin is not the right medication for you.

Instead, Somers recommends Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as a means of battling insomnia. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for insomnia analyzes an individual's behaviours, thoughts, and stimuli to achieve restful sleep.

Although you may not care about it at all and think you’re still young and invincible until you hit age 40, trying to optimize your sleep is a good idea. Even with things like blue light glasses and night mode on your phone, you might need a little boost from melatonin from time to time.

So, use it when you need to reset your sleep schedule, have fun with your friends, go out on Saturday, and sleep in on Sunday. But don’t rely on it too heavily.

Of course, if you want to be responsible, and focus on bettering yourself, Somers has a special, free online workshop running on Nov. 6 from 7 - 9 p.m. The workshop is called “Midnight Myths, tips for optimizing better sleep.”

If you are interested in learning how to develop better sleeping habits, details can be found at StressRegulationSkills.ca/ stress-awareness-day.

ICON BY FREEPIK

Young people should only use melatonin to get their sleep back on schedule. PHOTO PROVIDED BY PEXELS/PAIGE STAMPATORI

All you need to know about using the U of G Gym

The lowdown on the Gryphons Athletic Centre

OWEN TSIPTSIS

For students looking to exercise, there are many options within Guelph. The Guelph Gryphons Athletics Centre, located at the end of Reynolds Walk, has many perks, including an abundance of gym equipment, a basketball court, and a rock climbing wall.

For those wishing to access all that the Athletics Centre has to offer, NRG memberships can be purchased starting at $55 dollars per semester. Included with the basic membership is access to fitness classes, the NRG Zone, and virtual on-demand classes. Those wishing to gain access to the rock wall must purchase an NRG Plus membership for $99.

Fitness classes are held throughout the week. These include yoga, pilates, cycle, zumba, aquafit, and many more. Equipment can be rented for drop-in sports from client

services. Lockers are available for free for daily use, however there is a limited quantity available. You can purchase lockers and a towel service with your membership, which are priced depending on the locker size. On the second floor of the Athletics Centre is a booster juice for those looking to refresh after a workout.

There are many things you can do at the Gryphons Athletic centre, and plenty of ways to get fit on campus. Make sure to try something new like pilates, or go outside of your comfort zone with aquafit. Fitness looks different for everyone, and the Gryphon’s Athletic Centre allows you to explore what fitness looks like for you.

At the end of the day, feeling comfortable in your body is what it’s all about. If you need help getting there, the Gryphon’s Athletic Centre is for you.

The Gryphons Athletic Centre offers things like fitness classes, lockers and equipment. PHOTO PROVIDED BY SOPHIA MARCON

Celebrating 10 years of research on healthy habits

The Guelph Family Health Study helps local families and children develop healthy lifestyles

SOPHIA LE

In 2012, Dr. David W.L. Ma raised his hand when the Health for Life initiative of the Better Planet Program at the University of Guelph was looking to fund a new research study. Under the leadership of the Dean of the College of Biological Science, Dr. Michael Emes, and the Advisory Board Chair, Jonathan Guss, a team of interdisciplinary faculty invested in improving family health was formed. They sat down for a full year of discussion to decide the purpose of this study.

“Through those meetings and conversations, it was identified that there was a critical need to address the childhood obesity epidemic,” Dr. Ma recounted, “and to establish a longer-term [longitudinal] cohort study that would investigate how to prevent childhood obesity rather than treat [it]”. This method meant that researchers would follow a cohort of participants over time to observe long-term changes in their well-being.

The City of Guelph was found to be the optimal location to recruit participants. In addition to having a connection to the University of

Guelph, its robust community contributed to the two key characteristics of a successful longitudinal study: recruitment and retention.

Cohort studies, in particular, depend heavily on participants willingly staying with the research over a long period of time.

To achieve the desired retention, it is essential to maintain a rapport with the participants. “It doesn't just happen organically; like any relationship, you have to put [in the] time and energy,” he said.

From newsletters, to birthday cards, to ice cream trucks celebrating the study’s fifth anniversary, efforts were made to ensure families felt a sense of belonging to the project and were recognized for their contribution.

A decade later, the Guelph Family Health Study has now been following nearly 350 families with young children in the area, with a 90 per cent retention rate. Their tenth-anniversary gathering was hosted this summer at the University of Guelph Arboretum and was well-attended by participating families and student alumni. With Dr.

Ma as director and Dr. Jess Haines as co-director, the study continues to be carried out by a team of eight faculty members, each with their unique specialties.

Annually, the children and their parents come in to measure typical health metrics such as body composition, physical activity, diet, and blood pressure. Additionally, the researchers include less conventional variables like genetics, screen time, and parenting practices.

“It's not just about your diet, not just about your physical activity, not just about the biological but it's also the social and behavioral,” explains Dr. Ma. In addition, it is vital that the data collected in a longitudinal study is relevant in the future as well as in the present.

Given the many variables measured, the large sample, and the prolonged duration, the sizeable amount of data accumulated must be stored, organized, and coordinated by dedicated data analysts on secure servers. Rather than using the data for only one research project, the relevant data is extracted for individual student

projects, supervised by the faculty team.

Since 2014, over 50 articles have been published by over 120 students examining childhood and family health from varied perspectives. They have advanced the scientific understanding of variables like diet, screen time, physical activity, sleep, stress, parenting practices, and genetics as contributing factors to family health.

Instead of stopping there, the study extends its impacts beyond contributions to academia. Dr. Ma stresses, “We're not just about doing research, but we're also trying to help families with their health.”

The team formed a family council early on to represent the participants involved and receive direct input on how to practically assist them in making healthy decisions. In giving feedback on proposed research projects, the families were credited as co-authors in a peer-reviewed paper.

Furthermore, the council pitched initiatives to apply the research findings, requesting curated resources of healthy recipes and re-

alistic advice for busy families. Ten years later, that initial idea has led to seven, research-based, free cookbooks containing quick, sustainable, and budget-conscious recipes. In addition, the Healthy Habits Happy Homes Podcast has been running monthly since 2018. In the 64 episodes available, graduate students, professors, and other researchers share evidence-based advice for helping children learn healthy habits early on.

For Dr. Ma, it is important to recognize that, “as investigators, we can move knowledge into action in a very tangible, meaningful, and impactful way, with our community here in Guelph, rather than a very tried and true traditional approach of [publishing research without acting on it]”.

Moving forward, the Guelph Family Health Study continues to emphasize the importance of non-traditional research activities, such as working with families and developing practical resources, as they train incoming students to be the next generation of health researchers.

The Healthy Habits Happy Homes Podcast has been running monthly since 2018. In the 64 episodes available, graduate students, professors, and other researchers share evidence-based advice for helping children learn healthy habits early on. PHOTO PROVIDED BY THE GUELPH FAMILY HEALTH STUDY

OPINION

Chappell Roan doesn’t owe you shit!

Chappell Roan sets boundaries and speaks out about the normalized culture of the so-called “superfan”

ALYSSA CUNNINGHAM

Over the last year, Chappell Roan has skyrocketed to fame with her chart-breaking album “The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess” and her single “Good Luck Babe!” She has quickly become a queer icon who has inspired countless people of all ages.

Throughout her increasing popularity Roan has been very candid with the public concerning her struggles with fame and the social implications that come with being a pop star. During one of her concerts in Raleigh, N.C. Roan became very emotional taking in her newfound success.

On stage, Roan said, “I just want to be honest with the crowd, I feel a little bit off today because I think that my career has kind of gone really fast and it’s really hard to keep up and so I’m just being honest that I’m having a hard time today. This is all I’ve ever wanted, so it’s just heavy sometimes. Thank you for understanding.”

Although it seems like Roan jumped out from the queer heavens and right into our laps, producing the most addicting gay pop music, in reality, Roan has been working on her music career for 10 years before the release of "The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess." As a 16-year-old living in Willard, Miss. she started uploading cover songs to YouTube until she was signed to Atlantic Records after writing an original song "Die Young." However, it wasn't until after being dropped by her label in 2020 that Roan started working as an independent artist writing songs with songwriter and producer Daniel Nigro.

After promoting her songs “Naked in Manhatten” and “My Kink is Karma” on TikTok and Instagram, Roan found herself opening for Olivia Rodrigo’s SOUR tour in 2022. Needless to say, Roan has put in the work to get to where she is today and has established herself in the music industry.

Unfortunately, Roan’s rapid success has also brought upon the way too normalized culture of so-called "superfans." This past August, Roan posted a video on TikTok commenting on the inap-

propriate behaviour she has experienced from fans in public.

“If you saw a random woman on the street would you yell at her from the car window? Would you harass her in public? Would you go up to a random lady and say 'can I get a photo with you?' and she says no, would you get mad at her? Would you stalk her family? Would you follow her around,” she questioned.

In any other situation, if a person acted with this behaviour it would be seen as abnormal and dangerous. However, there has been this disconnect which has formed between how fans treat public figures versus how they treat ordinary people in everyday life. Roan’s questions emphasize the fact that such behaviour is intrusive and disrespectful, whether the person is famous or not.

“I don’t care that abuse, harassment, stalking is a normal thing to do to people who are famous,” Roan said in the TikTok. “I don’t care that this crazy type of behaviour comes along with the job I’ve chosen. That does not make it okay, that does not make it normal, it doesn’t mean that I want it, it doesn’t mean that I like it–I’m allowed to say no to creepy behaviour.”

Shortly after Roan expressed these feelings on TikTok people took to social media to describe Roan as being selfish and entitled to think this way. Many comments reminded Roan that she “signed up for this” and that she should “choose a different career.”

This kind of mentality is exactly why it is beneficial to all women that someone with the platform that Roan currently has right now is speaking out about the non-consensual situations so-called “super-fans” have subjected her to. In the grand scheme of things, it is quite absurd how people associate this type of behaviour as just a part of being famous when in reality the idea that we are entitled and owed things by the people whose art we consume needs to be severely reconstructed.

A couple of days after posting her TikTok, Roan took to Instagram

to further establish her boundaries with the public and opened the discussion for parasocial relationships. In her post, Roan drew attention to the normalization of harassment and lack of boundaries in fan culture, calling for more respectful and humane treatment.

Roan captioned her post and said, “This isn’t a group conversation. I understand that this is jarring to hear from a person in my position. I’m not afraid of the consequences of demanding respect.”

The post continued, “Just to let you know, every woman is feeling or has felt similar to what I’m experiencing. This isn’t a new situation. If you see me as a bitch or ungrateful or my entire statement upsets you, baby that’s you… you gotta look inward and ask yourself ‘Wait why am I so upset by this? Why is a girl expressing her fears and boundaries so infuriating?’ That is all.”

Her words not only reflect her personal frustrations but also shed light on the stalking and obsessive behaviour that women endure daily. While it’s beneficial that the experiences of famous women can raise awareness of this dangerous behaviour, it’s disheartening to

consider how much harder it is for women without the visibility of fame to be believed. Violence against women is at an all-time high globally, regardless of class, race, or nationality, and Roan’s willingness to openly set boundaries and call out harmful behaviour, despite the potential backlash, highlights the seriousness of the problem. By speaking up, she brings attention to the widespread nature of harassment and the lack of respect that women, both famous and ordinary, experience on a daily basis. Her strong position serves as a reminder that society needs to address and change the cultural norms that allow this kind of treatment to continue unchecked.

At the beginning of September, Roan put her words to action on the red carpet at the 2024 VMAs demonstrating that she will not be tolerating any form of harassment from the public.

When a paparazzo screamed "Shut the fuck up" while walking the carpet, Roan responded, "You shut the fuck up! Don’t. Not me, bitch."

“I think for someone who gets a lot of anxiety around people yelling at you, the carpet is horrifying, and I yelled back. You don’t get to yell at me like that," she said.

Her unapologetic reaction has sparked conversations about the expectations placed on public figures, particularly women, to silently endure inappropriate behaviour.

Roan emphasized how empowering it felt to stand her ground.

"I feel very heard and it feels good,” she said. “I think that it’s hard for artists to speak up because they are so scared of their fans hating them."

What people often fail to realize is that Roan’s actions reflect exactly how a regular, well-adjusted person would act in the face of fame. She hasn’t been media-trained or forced to conform to an image dictated by industry standards; she’s simply being herself, and we need more of that in the public eye.

By staying true to who she is, Roan not only defies expectations but also challenges the idea that artists must sacrifice their dignity for acceptance.

In an interview post walking the carpet, Roan admitted, "This is quite overwhelming and quite scary.”

This past August, Roan posted a video on TikTok commenting on the inappropriate behaviour she has experienced from fans in public. ILLUSTRATION BY PAIGE STAMPATORI

SPOOKY STUFF

There’s nothing scarier than a situationship

Screaming, crying, deleting dating apps… then doing it over again

ANDREEA BURLACU

Are they ghosting you? Zombieing you?

Bleeding you dry like a vampire? You might be in a nightmare – or a situationship. This trending term describes the space between friendship and committed relationship, marked by intentional vagueness, inconsistency, and confusion. Maybe they’re taking you on dates but saying they’re “not ready for something serious,” or they’re spending the night but telling everyone you’re “just friends.”

Situationships can be fun, or they can be frustrating. You might spend one evening cuddling as you watch the sunset, then the next you’re alone, laying awake, haunted by every little thing they said.

U of G family relations and human development professor Dr. Robin Milhausen has been researching casual sex and different relationship configurations for over 20 years. She describes that with friends with benefits (FWB), hookups, and one night stands, people generally know the parameters of the relationship.

Research from high schools, colleges, and university campuses shows some consensus. A FWB is a friend who you like and have sex with on a friendly basis, without commitment. A hookup is someone you call late at night out of sexual desire. A one night stand is a one-time sexual encounter–“someone you don’t play MarioKart with,” as said by a student in one of Milhausen’s studies.

Basically, these relationships have set rules, whereas situationships lack clarity and a clear label. You’re left wondering if you’re in love or completely delusional.

“Situationships are so vague and unclear on purpose. It’s kind of a recipe for confusion, frustration, and anger,” Milhausen said.

The people in a situationship might have differing expectations, hopes, and goals. For example, one partner is afraid of commitment while the other person wants things to be serious. If this isn't clearly communicated, a situationship can get ghastly. Plus, a lack of clarity often hurts the person who’s more attached.

“That person is vulnerable to being hurt or disappointed,” Milhausen said.

Milhausen advised people to tread with caution if they get too invested in a situationship. She said that if you’re constantly refreshing your phone for their texts, stalking their social media, or always thinking of the relationship, you may need to step away.

“If it's causing you distress, and that distress is impacting your ability to do well

in your classes and to go to your job, to hang out with your friends and have a good time…I think these are signs that you are experiencing a concerning level of distress and it's impacting your life negatively,” she said.

But the situationship hasn’t sailed just yet. Milhausen explained that since relationships are always moving, a situationship can evolve.

“I often use the airport analogy,” she said. “You're not quite back where you were, and you're not quite where you're going, yet the airport is an in-between place. Situationships can be like an airport. You're more than friends, but you're not something that is committed and serious. And relationships are always in flux.”

So yes, a situationship can blow up or drift apart. But it can also grow to be a serious relationship, a FWB, or a regular hookup. If both your and your partner’s needs are being met and you’re feeling fulfilled, a sexual relationship without commitment can be great! It gives you a safe space to explore your sexuality and develop your skills. Just make sure you’re communicating effectively and setting boundaries.

“If you believe that a person that you're engaging in a situationship with really wishes it was something more, then we have an ethical responsibility to be respectful and caring of our partners,” Milhausen said. “So I think everybody has to take responsibility for what's happening in the relationship and make a choice that's fair and kind.”

If you’re left broken-hearted, you don’t have to wallow in your sheets and suffer alone. Seek support when you need it – lean on your friends or speak to a university counsellor. Prioritise your own self-worth and do things that make you feel fulfilled. From personal experience, it helps to journal out your feelings, create an “ick list” of everything that didn’t work out, and make weirdly specific playlists.

Milhausen advises university students to advocate for the kind of relationship they want and explore possibilities.

“This is a time for exploration, and for young people to be able to explore without feelings of guilt or fear,” she said. “I want them to do it safely, and I want them to feel comfortable advocating for what they want in a relationship and a sexual experience. And now is the time to practice all that stuff. And there's going to be bumps in the road, because it's learning... The journey between 20 and 30 and beyond is almost never smooth,” she said.

Do a solid for the vampires

Sign up to donate blood now

ILLYRIA VOLCANSEK

This Halloween, vampires aren’t the only ones after your blood. While our fanged friends may be creeping around in the shadows, Canadian Blood Services is knocking at your door.

It can be hard to decide what to do with all that extra blood you’ve got sloshing around in your veins. On one hand, vampires can be kind of sexy and offer that rush of danger. You may find yourself asking questions such as “Does she really love me?” and “Am I going to die in the Walmart parking lot?”

On the other hand, donating blood to Canadian Blood Services (CBS) helps save lives. They also give you lots of snacks.

The next on-campus blood donation clinic is November 14. Organized by CBS student group Gryphons Give, these clinics “make blood donation a little bit more accessible to folks who don't have a vehicle and can't go over to the permanent location” according to co-president Evelyn Balfour.

Gryphons Give also organizes Stem Cell Registry events, regularly tables in the University Center, and hosts an yearly inter-university blood donation competition called The Giving Games.

Personally, I was quite glad that donors chose to give their

blood to CBS when I received a blood transfusion several years ago.

For those of you who haven’t experienced the delightful sensation of new blood cells entering your body, let me assure you that blood transfusions are quite a useful medical procedure. They keep you alive, while also making you feel more peppy. I walked out of that hospital as a fresh little sack of blood, ready to take on the oftentimes-scary world of severe childhood illness with new energy.

About 4.5 million blood transfusions are required in Canada each year. It takes several donors to source one transfusion (up to 50 donors for one severe car crash victim), so that adds up to a lot of donations needed.

Muireann Heuchan, a member of Gryphons Give, received blood transfusions after a major spinal surgery.

“The blood transfusion for me was necessary to allow the surgery to happen, and then also to allow me to recover a lot faster and get back to school and other daily activities” Heuchan said.

I would like to encourage you to donate blood, if you're able to, this Halloween. It’s a lifesaving gift, and you also get to piss off some vampires.

Signing up to donate

To book a donation appointment, sign up online at blood.ca

As previously mentioned, the next on-campus donation clinic is November 14. When signing up for this clinic online, select “University of Guelph” as your location.

Otherwise, the neatest donation clinic is located at 130 Silvercreek Pkwy North. For those who have trouble getting there, Gryphons Give can help with transport. If you’ve got two friends who have also signed up to donate, you can email Gryphons Give co-presidents Yu-Chen Huang and Evelyn Balfour (yhuang36@uoguelph.ca and ebalfour@uoguelph.ca) to arrange a free taxi to the donation clinic for your group.

Partner For Life is another on-campus group that can help with blood donations.

“The Partners For Life program is the best way for groups of people to track the impact of their blood donations by joining a team and having their donations counted towards a team's goal!” said Katie Bea, who is the Community Development Manager for CBS Guelph.

Sign in or create an account at blood.ca or using the GiveBlood app, and select “University of Guelph” as your team.

Typical Donation Appointment

On the day of your donation appointment, make sure you drink lots of water, eat a healthy meal, and get a good night’s sleep. Remember to bring your ID or blood donor card, and a list of your medications.

“When you arrive in the donor center, you are greeted by one

of our staff members, who checks you in and gets you set up at one of our computers to answer our confidential screening questionnaire,” said Bea.

This is followed by a screening with a nurse who checks your hemoglobin with a finger prick and asks follow up questions.

“Once that is completed, you head to the donor chair and complete your donation (which usually takes about five to 15 minutes). Once you've completed your donation, you head to our refreshment area, where you can have as many snacks and drinks as you would like and once you're full and rested, you are free to go on with the rest of your day!” Bea said.

Worried about time? Donating is pretty quick and easy, never fear.

“Typically the donation experience ‘door-to-door’ will take less than one hour” according to Bea.

Other ways to get involved

Since reaching the age of 17--which is when your blood ripens enough to be appealing to both vampires and blood donation clinics-- I’ve attempted to donate blood several times.

Although I keep getting thwarted due to my medical history, let me assure you that most healthy adults are eligible to donate.

“If you're already a blood donor, or you are unable to donate, you can make all the difference by encouraging someone to donate on your behalf, or choose another way to support Canada's lifeline. If you are between 17 and 35 years old, you can register to be a potential stem cell donor with Canadian Blood Services stem cell registry.

You can also register your intent organs and tissues.” said Bea.

Bea added “Recent changes to our donor criteria means that many people who weren't able to donate in the past might be able to now. You can always check your eligibility on our website.”

All students, regardless of donation status, are also welcome to volunteer with Gryphons Give. There is a sign-up form currently available on their Instagram (@ uogcbs), and students are always welcome to sign up with them while they are tabling in the University Center.

Gryphons Give co-president Yu Chen Huang said “I really like helping people. Especially with the blood donation clinics, I see that [the people who donate] really want to lend a hand...it really touches my heart."

She added “It’s is also a really good experience in terms of learning how to manage events, cooperate with the school, and more.”

As a final thought, Heuchan shared “I am extremely grateful to the people who gave blood and allowed me to get my surgery, and that surgery has really improved my quality of life…that might be important for people to hear, just that people who do receive blood transfusions are really grateful for it.”

If you’re struggling to decide what to do with your blood this Halloween, look no further. Canadian Blood Services is definitely a better choice than your local vampire.

Book a blood donation appointment now on www.blood.ca, the GiveBlood app, or call 1-888236-6283 (1-888-2-DONATE). They’ve got a plethora of information on blood donations (but none on vampires, unfortunately.)

The Ontarion’s Costume Quiz

Determining which on-trend costume you should dress up as this year

1. What is your favourite symbol of Halloween?

1. Ghosts

2. Black Cat

3. Pumpkins

4. Witch

2. What is your go-to Halloween jam?

1. Monster Mash

2. Heads Will Roll

3. Spooky Scary Skeletons

4. Ghostbusters

3. What are you bringing to the Halloween party?

1. Ouija Board

2. Tarot Cards

3. Crystal Ball

4. Jello Shots

4. What’s your favourite Halloween comfort movie?

1. Nightmare Before Christmas

2. Hocus Pocus

3. Halloweentown

4. Twitches

5. What’s your fall-themed drink choice?

1. Pumpkin Spiced Latte

2. Chai Tea Latte

3. Hot Apple Cider

4. Hot Toddy

6. Where will you be this Halloween?

1. Dancing the night away

2. Doing Karaoke

3. Watching scary movies

4. Trick or treating

7. How would you describe your Halloween vibe?

1. Spooky

2. Cartoonish

3. Nostalgic

4. Epic

8. Who is your favourite Horror villain?

1. Freddy Kreuger

2. Jason Voorhees

3. Michael Meyers

4. Ghostface

RESULTS: If you chose...

MOSTLY 1s

You got Beetlejuice! (Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice)

You should definitely dress up at Beetlejuice this Halloween! You’re all about chilling with your ghost homies and having a great time. Party it up and remember to cause some mayhem along the way!

MOSTLY 2s

You got Joker / Harley Quinn!

(Folie À Deux)

Embrace your inner Joaquin Phoenix or Lady Gaga this Halloween and dress as the Joker or Harley Quinn! You’re often misunderstood and described as mysterious, but you’re here for a good time, not a long time!

MOSTLY 3s

You got Vault Dweller! (Fallout)

You simply must dress up as the iconic video game character this year! You appreciate the simple things in life. But you’ll still have a great time attending a rager or two this Halloween season!

MOSTLY 4s

You got Deadpool & Ladypool!

(Deadpool & Wolverine)

Like Deadpool, you’re someone who is able to turn anything into a joke. That’s why this costume reflects you perfectly! You are the life of the party, and wouldn’t mind maintaining a little anonymity at your Halloween gatherings this year.

Carve out some time for these Halloween DIYs

Decorate your home this spooky season with homemade pumpkins, ghosts, and more

Whether you’re looking for a haunting way to spend an evening or you want to add some spookiness to your home, these DIYs are guaranteed to turn out fa-BOO-lous!

Clay ghosts

Looking to make some new spooky friends? Well, in just a few steps you’ll have your very own ghostly pal!

What you’ll need:

• Small styrofoam ball

• Square of aluminum foil, about 6 in. by 6 in., folded into two layers

• Air dry clay

• Rolling pin

• Piping tip

Step 1: Place the styrofoam ball in the center of the aluminum foil square.

Mold the foil over the styrofoam ball into the shape of a ghost.

Step 2: Knead the clay until it is soft. Use the rolling pin to roll the clay out evenly into a circle.

STORY

&

PHOTOS BY CARLOTA SOUSA

Step 4: Place the clay over the foil mold, allowing it to drape and fold. Add more or less folds to your liking.

Step 5: Leave the ghost to dry. Once dry, carefully remove it from the mold. You’re now ready to welcome your new ghost friend!

Optional step 6: Customize your ghosts using paint, markers and accessories.

Yarn pumpkins

Bring the pumpkin patch to you with these soft and vibrant yarn pumpkins!

What you’ll need:

• Orange yarn

• Green yarn

• A tall, flat book

• Scissors

• Ruler Step 1: Wrap the orange yarn around your book, about 100 times.

off the book, maintaining the shape.

Step 3: Cut four pieces of orange yarn, about 12 in. each. Tightly tie and double knot each piece of string around the loop, tying off the loop into quarters.

Step 4: Cut in between each tied piece of yarn. This will make four pom poms, or pumpkins. Trim each pom pom into a pumpkin shape, but leave the tail (the long pieces of orange string that were tied around the loop in step 3).

Step 5: Cut eight pieces of green yarn, about 12 in. each. With two pieces of green yarn together, tie the tail of the pumpkin around the center of the green yarn. Repeat this tying process for the three other pumpkins.

Step 6: Gather the four ends of green yarn that are now attached to the pumpkin and tie a slip knot to create a stem. Trim the stem to your liking. Enjoy your DIY pumpkin patch!

Optional step 7: Tie a long piece of twine around the stems to make a pumpkin garland!

Spooky rocks

Here’s a fun and easy way to turn regular rocks into spooky decorations!

What you’ll need:

• Flat palm-sized rocks

• Acrylic paint

• Paint brushes

• Permanent markers

Step 1: Add one to three layers of base paint to your rock, waiting for it to fully dry between layers. The paint colour will depend on what you’re designing. If you want to make a ghost or eyeball, use white as your base colour and if you want to make a pumpkin, use orange.

Step 2: Use permanent markers to finish creating your spooky designs!

Spirit candles

A little less DIY and a little more decorating!

What you’ll need:

• Plain white candles, size of your choice

• Permanent markers

Steps: All you need to do is decorate your candles in all of the spooky ways that you can imagine. Draw ghosts or jack-o-lantern faces and then bring them to life when you’re done by safely lighting your candle!

Step 3: Using a piping tip, cut out the eyes and mouth of your ghost right below the center of the clay circle.

Step 2: Carefully slide the loop of orange yarn

Horrible horoscopes

ARIES

March 21 – April 19

Aries, you will need stitches this month after breaking a wine glass. Too bad they’ll be infected within a week.

TAURUS

April 20 – May 20

Taurus, you won’t know when it’s going to happen - but the pants you're wearing right now are going to rip and everyone will see your skeleton - err, underwear.

GEMINI

May 21 – June 21

Gemini, try not to choke on your lunch this month. That’s it.

CANCER

June 22 – July 22

Cancer, don’t go out late at night when your friend asks you to get drinks. There is a 100% chance they are a vampire and will suck your blood.

LEO

July 23 – August 22

Leo, a witch will put a spell on you this month. Try not to fall for it and fall for them.

VIRGO

August 23 – September 22

Virgo, is your basement giving you the creeps lately? It’s because Larry is under your stairs and he is hungry for your blood.

LIBRA

September 23 – October 23

Libra, if you’re feeling sick this month, pay attention. Your spouse is slowly poisoning you.

SCORPIO

October 24 – November 21

Scorpio, enjoy your birthday season! This one will be your last.

SAGITTARIUS

November 22 – December 21

Sagittarius, a black cat will cross your path this month. It will also bite you… Have fun with that.

CAPRICORN

December 22 – January 19

Capricorn, you need to drink more coffee this month. Everyone thinks you’re looking like a zombie.

AQUARIUS

January 20 – February 18

Aquarius, you will befriend a group of spiders this month. They will do crimes on your behalf.

PISCES

February 19 – March 20

Pisces, if you think weird things are happening now, just wait. Your house is totally haunted and the ghosts inhabiting it love classical music.

It’s the season of the witch!

Witch

Hunts and Popular Culture professor Dr. Lawrence describes the history of witches, warts and all

ANDREEA BURLACU

I

t’s that time of year. There’s a chill in the air and Spirit Halloween is reopening at the mall. Soon you’ll be surrounded by spooky figures of all kinds, like vampires, or witches, with their pointy hats, black outfits, and broomsticks.

Witches are depicted in this get-up everywhere from Hocus Pocus to Halloweentown. But have you ever considered why they are portrayed this way? What’s with their bubbling cauldrons and wicked cackles?

U of G history professor Dr. David Lawrence specializes in the history of war and society in early modern Britain. In preparation of writing a chapter in The Routledge History of the Devil in the Western Tradition, he studied texts about the devil, demons, and witches.

Inspired by his experience, Lawrence began teaching a course at Guelph called Witch Hunts and Popular Culture. This course delves into the perceptions of witchcraft held in Scotland amidst the European witch hunts of the 1500s and 1600s. Every country in the United Kingdom handled the witch hunts differently. However, Scotland treated those accused of witchcraft very harshly.

“In early modern Scotland, somewhere between 3,000 to 5,000 people were accused of witchcraft offences in this period and of those, it is believed anywhere from 1,000 to 2,000 people were executed,” Lawrence said.

“Various levels of government were involved in the hunts, as were Presbyterian religious leaders and clergy in shires and towns across the country. But so too were many common people who levelled accusations against their neighbours and even against their own family members.”

Lawrence described that initially, priests and magicians were said to have used magic to control the natural world. They were associated with names like “magos” or “praestigia.” In the medieval and early modern period, some of these people were connected to sorcery, but that wasn’t a bad thing – yet. However, by the late 15th century, magic began to be associated with the devil.

“Demonological texts, like Malleus Maleficarum (Hammer of the Witches), popularized these links

but also added a misogynistic subtext,” Lawrence said. “Catholic and Protestant churchmen, always interested in combatting the powers of the devil, called upon their parishioners to be wary of those in their communities who might be consorting with Satan.”

During this early modern period, Europe was marked by economic, religious, political and social instability. This led to collective fear and scapegoating.

“Such instability fostered the spread of rumours and misinformation, and blame was often put on witches when mysterious or unexplained events occurred,” Lawrence said.

Laws against sorcery and witchcraft were soon introduced into many criminal law codes, and the Holy Roman Empire passed an act against witchcraft and sorcery in 1532.

Witch hunts spread like wildfire, with many suspected witches executed by religious and secular courts. But “witchcraft” was never clearly defined, so accusers had a good amount of leeway with who to blame. People held grudges, and it wasn’t uncommon for someone to accuse those who wronged them over 20 years prior.

“Cunning folk” were also accused of witchcraft and brought before authorities. These practitioners of magic, both male and female, had working knowledge of the medicinal qualities of plants and herbs. They used this “magic” to help cure people of illnesses, find buried treasure, or mix love potions.

“These folk found that when things went right, then they were performing good magic and all was fine, but when things went wrong, and people or animals died, or the treasure was not unearthed or love was not in the cards, then they might be accused of sorcery,” Lawrence said.

Anyone could be accused. Often, older women were easy targets – specifically, “scolds,” who were considered by neighbours to be “unruly and difficult to control.”

Around 80 to 85 per cent of those accused of witchcraft were women.

However, men weren’t the only ones pointing fingers. Lawrence described that women accused other women of witchcraft, especially if “they had simply fallen

out with someone in their community who was powerful enough to bring charges against them.”

The stereotypical image of a witch began to be conjured, with brooms, black clothing, and certain pets. The brooms were considered a means of transport from a witch’s home to their “sabbat,” a place where witches gathered to pledge allegiance to Satan. Yet it was also claimed that the devil could transport people without moving their physical bodies, so people could be accused even if they were reportedly at home asleep with their family. Witches were depicted wearing all black as the colour commonly associated with the devil. And as for the classic black cat companion – people just didn’t like cats very much.

“They were not well-liked in the early modern period, and sadly, often treated very poorly,” Lawrence said. “It was claimed that cats, dogs, rats, mice, and other animals were the devil’s familiars, which he used to channel his thoughts and commands to humans. So, if you were

accused of witchcraft, even your pets might be used against you.”

Nowadays, witches are a regular part of popular culture. Harry Potter, for instance, is one of the most beloved media franchises in the world. Millions of people around the world have read the books, watched the movies, and waited for their Hogwarts acceptance letter.

Around Halloween, many people find comfort in snuggling up on the couch and watching a movie about witches. There’s literally hundreds of options, like Practical Magic, Spellbinder, Kiki’s Delivery Service, Suspiria, and The Love Witch, to name a few. Plus, this November, the new Wicked movie will be in theatres featuring Elphaba in her classic black garb.

There are also many people who identify with witchcraft and Wicca, also known as The Craft, which is a form of modern Paganism in which followers worship Nature.

“I do not claim to be an expert on modern Wicca, but The Craft has its sabbats, its magic and incantations, and some of its adherents are drawn to important historical sites, like Salem, Massachusetts, for ritual celebrations and commemorations,” Lawrence said.

Lawrence pointed out that modern witchcraft is done by those who believe it to be a spiritual undertaking, and one associated with their respect and interest in the powers of the natural world. Witchcraft shouldn’t have the evil or demonic connotations it did in the past.

“Those accused of witchcraft in the early modern period may not have even considered themselves to be adherents of witchcraft, or even interested in practicing magic,” Lawrence said. “They found themselves on the wrong side of fear mongering, hatred, or antipathy in their communities and paid the price, either with their reputations or their lives.”

Witches were often depicted wearing all black, as the colour was associated with the devil. PHOTO PROVIDED BY MONSTERA PRODUCTION

FROM THE ARCHIVES

The Ontarion, 1994

The Ontarion has been around since 1951 and we’ve witnessed some pretty historic moments. This is a new feature that will focus on noteworthy articles pulled from our archives that are of interest to our readership today.

We’re currently in the process of fully digitizing our archives and creating a searchable directory. If you’d like updates on when this project is complete, sign up for our newsletter by emailing info@theontarion.com

BECAUSE WE ASKED...

What is your favourite Halloween Treat?

Giovanna Fiallos Final year, Animal Bio

Kirisan Suthanthireswaran 4th year, Software Engineering

4th

2nd

3rd

1st

THE ONTARION'S CLUB OF THE MONTH

Club Name: Cinema Club

Club Since: September 2024

Club Mission: To unite like-minded individuals and present social opportunities for students to further explore their interests. How can others get involved: As of this moment, there are no details regarding meetings, events and so forth. However, there is a discord server—“Cinema Club” under University of Guelph—which is where announcements will be made. A GryphLife page is also in the works.

If you want to be the next club of the month, email tpipe@theontarion.com

All kinds of Reese's Pieces

Coffee Crisp

Coffee Crisp

Lauren Kardosh

year, Computer Science

Smarties

Jason Ng

year, Psycology

Kit Kat or Reese’s Pieces Saoirse Conway

year, One Health

Candy Corn Jack

year, Crop Science

OCTOBER TO-DO LIST

THURS OCT 1FRI NOV 1

Monster Month

• Centre Wellington (Fergus & Elora)

• Celebrate Halloween throughout October with lantern tours, ghost walks, spooky markets, pumpkin carving, and so much more

• The streets of downtown Elora will be transformed into Tim Murton’s Twilight Zoo, an instalment of over 100 monster sculptures

• Visit monstermonth.ca for more details

MON OCT 7TUES OCT 8

Further Education Fair

• 12:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

• UC Courtyard

• Explore post-graduate opportunities by connecting with academic institutions

WED OCT 2 WED OCT 9

Food and Agriculture Job Fair

• 12:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

• Peter Clark Hall

• Meet with employers from the food and agricultural industries

SAT OCT 5

Gryphon Football Game

• 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

• Alumni Stadium

How to Use AI in your Job Search

• 2:30 p.m. - 3:20 p.m.

• Online

• Learn how to effectively use AI for job searching

• Registration closes day of at noon

Nutrition Management for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

• 2:30 - 3:20 p.m.

• JTP Rm 2259

• Gain strategies for decreasing symptoms of PCOS

MON OCT 21

Beyond the Books: Mental Health Literacy Training

• 9:00 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.

• Online

• Learn how to identify signs of troubling behaviour and act compassionately toward those struggling with their mental health

Break the Anxiety-Procrastination Cycle

• 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

• Online

• Gain practical strategies to intervene when stuck in a cycle of anxiety and procrastination

WED OCT 30

START UofG: Spooky Homeroom

• 2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

• UC Rm 390

• Get into the spooky spirit with this halloween themed START Homeroom, a casual study space open to all students

ONGOING EVENTS

Break the Anxiety- Procrastination Cycle

• Begins Monday, Oct. 21

• Online weekly on Mondays for three sessions

• 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

• Gain practical strategies to start breaking the cycle when anxiety and procrastination are feeding each other

Women’s Mid-Life Sleep Workshop

• Wednesday, Oct. 23

• Online

• 7:00 p.m. - 9 p.m.

• Learn how to cope with perimenopausal sleep changes and hot flashes

Take the Stress Out of IBS

• Begins Friday, Oct. 25

• Online weekly on Fridays for five sessions

• 12:30 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.

• Gain tips to decrease IBS symptoms and regulate digestion using diet and stress management

STOP Worrying

• Wednesday, Oct. 30

• Online

• 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.

• Gain techniques to curb worrying, and learn how to address pitfalls that get in the way

PETS OF THE MONTH

Domestic

Photo: Satkar Furmah

Age: 1.5

Fun Fact: Hazel is energetic and loves to play soccer!

Photo: Celia Markovinovic

Age: 10 months

Fun Fact: Maggie has a TikTok account @misfitmagdalena

Breed: Domestic ShortHair

Photo: Alexander Yuriaan

Age: 1

Fun Fact: Mabel works as a TSA agent, a Mailwoman and Document Shredder.

PUZZLE PAGE

21. Bern's river

23. Writer Roald

25. Shoot for 26. Big name in insurance

27. Apparel

28. Attacks

29. Metal spikes

30. Papal garment

31. Electrician, at times

32. Silt deposit

34. Unrefined

37. Large handkerchief

38. It takes a big bow

46. Female deer

47. _ rasa

50. Ancient Hindu art of medicine

40. Combustible matter

41. Coffin support

43. Pertaining to the eyes

44. Sweet dessert

46. Units of force

47. Change for a fifty

48. End in _ (draw)

49. Cause of ruin

50. BMW rival

51. First name in scat

52. Pops

53. Affirmative votes

56. Suffix with ball

BOB'S DOGS CROSSWORD CONTEST

For your chance to win two Bobs dog’s and two pops, just complete the crossword, snap a picture, and send it to puzzles@theontarion.com by October 17 at 3 p.m. Winners are announced in each issue and can arrange a pickup of their voucher by emailing the same address.

Last issue’s winning puzzle was submitted by Morgan McGee!

CROSSWORD SUDOKU

54. Listending abbr.

55. People and places, e.g.

57. Now _ me down ...

58. 1492 vessel

59. Swellings

60. Shoppe adjective

61. Psychic

62. Licorice flavoring

63. Glasgow gal

1. Queue after Q

2. Tombstone lawman

3. Iowa city 4. Uneasy

5. Aboriginal 6. _ barrel

7. Kissers

8. Skater Babilonia 9. Imperil

10. Clown Kelly 11. Faucet fault

12. Car scar

13. Poems, often used to praise someone or something

Fill in the empty squares so that each of the digits 1 through 9 appear once in each row, column, and 3-by-3 block.