The Ontarion - Issue #175.13

Thursday, November 27, 2014

Issue No. 175.13

PROF.

THOMAS

KING

ON LIFE, UofG, and

the Governor

General’s Award SEE CENTRE

ONTARIO’S COMPUTER LITERACY PAGE 4

THE WEEKLY SCENE

GUELPH STORM PAGE 11

PAGE 6

NEWS 3 • ARTS & CULTURE 6 • SPORTS & HEALTH 10 • LIFE 16 • OPINION 18 • EDITORIAL 21 • FUN PAGE 22

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Issue 175.13 • Thursday, November 27, 2014

NEWS

University of Guelph launches Food Map Online collaborative tool helps lead food science into the future SAMEER CHHABRA On Tuesday, Nov. 25, the Food Institute of the University of Guelph launched the Food Map, an online research tool. The Food Map is structured like a typical online search engine, and is an open-access way for researchers, industry workers, and members of the public to connect with the latest research taking place at the University of Guelph.

At a reception led by Rene Van Acker, the Associate Dean of External Relations at the Ontario Agricultural College, several of the project’s key figures convened to discuss the Food

Map’s history, as well as to discuss the project’s future. In addition to researchers involved with the project, Melanie Agopian, Senior Director of Sustainability for Loblaw Brands, and Amanda Etches, the Associate Chief Librarian at McLaughlin Library, gave brief speeches.

Rickey Yada, the Dean of the Faculty of Land and Food Systems at the University of British Columbia, and a former professor of food science at the University of Guelph detailed the project’s extensive history, starting with its humble beginnings as a spin-off of the Government of Canada’s Centres of Excellence network. Yada is currently in British Columbia, and delivered his speech through Skype.

“The history of the food map is an evolution from my experience with the centres of excellence found at the University of Guelph,” began Yada. “For those of you who are not familiar with the centres of excellence, they’re virtual networks, and they were funded by – and still are funded by – the federal government. It brings together

scientists and people of industry from the government and NGOs together to work on strategic issues that revolve around food and biomaterials.”

The University of Guelph’s network existed for seven years, acting as a means for researchers to stay connected with the university’s research.

“What was interesting about our network was that it acted as a portal of information about…what research was being done about food…and who was doing research about food,” said Yada. “I thought the concept of having a portal where people can come through could happen at the University of Guelph around the food area.”

Yada explained that he was surprised at the University of Guelph’s lack of internal repository for food information. Approaching the former Vice-President of Research and External Partnerships at the University of Guelph, Kevin Hall, to ask for funds, Yada eventually set up a group to tackle the void he thought needed to be addressed.

The Food Map is a collaborative effort between engineers, food scientists, library scientists, and systems developers working together to create a comprehensive database dedicated to cataloguing University of Guelph food research. At launch, the Food Map features over 2,500 research articles and on-going projects open for viewing.

Yada and Acker both emphasized the Food Map’s unique growth pattern. Unlike other databases that merely compile published research, the Food Map also features research currently being conducted. This allows interested parties to stay up to date with the latest findings.

Melanie Agopian was present as an industry representative to emphasize the Food Map’s scope.

“Loblaws has also had a longstanding relationship with [the University of Guelph],” explained Agopian.

“In 2009, Loblaws announced its support in establishing a chair in sustainable food production, the goal of which was to continue to establish

a global centre of excellence bringing together the best ideas and best minds in Canada to make Canada a global leader in sustainable food production.”

“Today, we have expanded our relationship with the University, and we interact more often than regularly, specifically with The Food Institute…In our business, there’s great value in research and connecting with expertise on a broad range of topics, including development, food production, food safety, and the impact of food on the environment.”

Agopian stressed that consumers currently exist in an age of transparency where they are more interested in their food than ever before. The Food Map allows consumers to their questions answered through its expansive, and easily accessible, database.

The Food Map is currently available to access, and will continue to be updated so long as the University of Guelph continues its leading work on food science.

Former Puslinch Mayor Brad Whitcombe passes away Whitcombe, 64, dies after contracting flesh-eating disease CONNOR HEWSON On Sunday, Nov. 16, the community of The Township of Puslinch was dealt a tragic loss by the sudden passing of former mayor and Wellington County Warden Brad Whitcombe.

Whitcombe, 64, died of necrotizing fasciitis – more commonly known as

flesh-eating disease – a rare infection of the deeper layers of skin and subcutaneous tissues that affects about only 500 people worldwide per year. According to Whitecombe’s brother Kevin, the former mayor’s health began to take a turn for the worse on the evening of Friday, Nov. 14, when he complained of flu-like symptoms and a pounding headache that sent him to bed.

Spouse Lise Burcher, a Guelph city councillor, said that he was rushed to hospital Saturday evening, when the pain and discomfort intensified.

Reports from medical personnel were initially positive.

“They thought the prognosis was very good. Then, the infection spread quite quickly,” Burcher said.

By Sunday afternoon, Whitecombe

had succumbed to the disease, leaving behind an enormous and well-earned legacy of hard-work and class in both his political and personal life.

According to Burcher, the outpouring from the community in the wake of Whitecombe’s passing has been both heart-warming and life affirming, making it clear that he was much loved by the people for his political and community leadership.

“He did have that affable, amicable, generous way about him,” Burcher said. “He was intense, but engaging; driven but co-operative. And always self-effacing, not seeking the limelight for the fame.”

Whitcombe, who was first elected to Puslinch township council in 1989, served honorably as mayor of Puslinch

from 1995 until 2010, when current Mayor Dennis Lever defeated him.

Whitcombe also served as county warden in 2000, 2005, and 2006.

Whitcombe tried to make a comeback by running for mayor again this year, but he was again defeated by Lever.

According to Burcher, he was also planning on running in 2018.

“It’s a tragic loss,” said Lever in an interview, when asked about Whitcombe’s passing. “Brad worked hard.

He was committed to the community.

He had the community’s best interests at heart.”

Forever dedicated to the community, Whitcombe’s leadership in council, and his work on and with the library board, Friends of Mill Creek, Grand River Conservation Authority,

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Optimist Recreation center, and countless other endeavors, are evidence to the undeniable drive and effect that he had on the Township of Puslinch.

“A century from now, people will look back and still see his work; you can’t say that about a lot of people,” says current warden Chris White.

“I think he liked to deal with people, to help them,” said Kevin Whitcombe, who ran his driving range, and lawn and garden equipment servicing business side-by-side with the former Warden for over 30 years.

The family did not plan a public visitation or funeral service, but made arrangements for prompt cremation, as well as a wake for family and friends within the next couple of weeks.

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NEWS

Under the Computer-savvy Ontario students Radar Study shows

-Compiled by Alyssa Ottema

Ontario students among the top internationally JOANNE PEARCE

In a new international study believed to be the first of its kind, Ontario students place among the best in computer literacy, tying with Australia and the Czech Republic for the top spot.

This competence seems to be apparent, despite Ontario provincial schools not placing a priority on use of technology in classrooms when compared to other countries.

The International Computer and Information Literacy Study was administered to approximately 60,000 grade eight students in 20 countries, where participants were scored out of a possible 600 points on their ability to perform basic tasks, like copying and saving documents, and creating or modifying information while multitasking different applications. Around 3,700 randomly selected students from 200 schools in Ontario participated, and scored an overall average 547 points, compared to the international average of 500.

The students were not alone in their success. Ontario teachers were reported to also have ranked well, with a higher level of confidence in completing tasks like attaching files to

R. NIAL BRADSHAW VIA CC BY 2.0

Ontario students have placed among the best globally in computer literacy, despite provincial schools’ lack of priority in use of technology in the classroom.

Despite school principals remarking about Ontario placing a high priority in technology in the classroom, Ontario classrooms still showed to have less emphasis on technology in comparison to the international average, in almost all areas that were measured. Most schools in Ontario have even complained about the outdated and insufficient equipment that hinders them in teaching, compared to other jurisdictions.

In Canada, only two provinces — Ontario and Newfoundland and Labrador — that took part in the study, however Newfoundland and Labrador’s scores were not available. It is nevertheless interesting to see Ontario place in the top internationally for computer-savvy skills. Hopefully, other provinces will take part in the study in the future as well.

FAIR

NOVEMBER

Ruling in Michael Brown case sparks riots in Ferguson Michael Brown, an 18-year-old black man, was shot and killed

by Darren Wilson, a white police officer, in Ferguson, Missouri on Aug. 9. On Nov. 24, a grand jury announced their decision to not indict Wilson, sparking an increase in rioting and protest across the city.

While the decision incited deeper unrest, protests – both peaceful and violent – have been ongoing in Ferguson, a predominantly black community with a police force that is, on large, white. With the increase in intensity of the riots, authorities over 80 arrests in the St Louis area – 61 in Ferguson alone – overnight in the chaos.

Thousands of others across America, from L.A. to New York, protested the decision.

Though many had called for Wilson to be charged with murder, the jury – randomly selected, with nine white and three black members – recommended no charges after three months of deliberation. At least nine votes would have been needed to issue an indictment.

Brown’s family, joined by President Barack Obama, urged the citizens of Ferguson and America on large to peacefully accept the decision, as it was “the grand jury’s to make.”

“We are profoundly disappointed that the killer of our child will not face the consequence of his actions,” said Brown’s family in a statement. However, they also plead for calm amidst the protests, appealing for rioters to “not just make noise [but] make a difference.” Brown’s family is also calling for policy reform that would have all police officers wear body cameras in the field.

Though the murder charges have been dropped, a Department of Justice (DOJ) investigation remains under way, looking into whether or not Wilson violated Brown’s civil rights. The DOJ is also investigating practices at the Ferguson police department, reviewing the use of force over the last four years.

Wilson, 28, currently remains on paid leave.

emails or installing software, compared to their counterparts in other participating jurisdictions.

“It should inspire both pride and confidence that Ontario students fared so well on the (study), given how important computer information literacy is to life in the digital age,” said Education Quality and Accountability Office (EQAO) Board of Directors Chair, Brian Desbiens, in a press release.

The CEO of EQAO, Bruce Rodrigues, shared these same sentiments, noting how Ontario’s efforts to integrate technology in the classroom were worthwhile.

“Because we’ve done that over the years, I think that our students are in fact more comfortable with its use in the learning process,” said Rodrigues.

“The reason that’s important is that, as we move into looking at some of the global competencies in innovation… students will need to be able to be nimble with the use of computers to compete in the global economy.”

While Ontario did score in the top worldwide, they did not outperform their international peers in all categories. Students were found to score slightly below the international average when it came to completing tasks that were slightly more advanced, such as creating a program, database, or website, or setting up software to find and get rid of viruses. In fact, while girls reportedly scored higher on average in overall computer literacy, boys were found to be more confident on performing the advanced tasks.

2014 RYAN PRIDDLE

Each year, the University of Guelph plays host to Fair November, a local artisan and craft showcase and sale. Fair November also hosts an annual juried handcrafts competition, which draws in locals and travelers each year. This year saw the return of favourite vendors and the introduction of new local handcrafters to the University Centre and Peter Clark Hall.

TheONTARION.com

Issue 175.13 • Thursday, November 27, 2014

NEWS

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University of Guelph student stabbed on campus Arrest made after further investigations EMILIO GHLOUM On Nov. 21, an incident occurred on campus which resulted in the stabbing of a university student around Mills Hall residence.

Guelph police and GuelphWellington Emergency Services (GWEMS) arrived on the scene as they responded to a report that a

male university student had been stabbed.

At around 5:20pm, the student had an arranged meeting with the male suspect in front of Mills Hall to complete a transaction. It was reported that the stabbing occurred and the victim was robbed of several personal belongings during the transaction. Police said the victim called 911 and was taken to Guelph General Hospital later that evening.

It is expected that the student will make a full recovery without any complications.

It was further reported that the suspect was not a member of the

Guelph or University of Guelph community, but that he had recently moved to Guelph from Mississauga.

Chuck Cunningham, the Assistant Vice-President of Communications & Public Affairs stated in an interview with the Guelph Mercury that “Guelph is known in Canada as a safe, supportive university, and the City of Guelph is known as a safe city in which to live.”

“So when anything like this happens,” Cunningham continued, “and it doesn’t happen often at all, it’s quite disconcerting.”

In a statement published by the

Campus Community Police, the incident was said to be an isolated and targeted robbery. As the Investigative Services Unit took over, it was determined that the robbery should cause no concern for student and public safety.

It has been announced that the suspect was found and an arrest has been made. In a message sent on the SAFEGryphon app, police reported that “the investigative team worked diligently throughout the weekend, and at 1:00 p.m. on November 23, 2014, an 18-year-old male was arrested. He has been charged with robbery, assault with a weapon,

Keystone XL Pipeline rejected by U.S. Senate Controversial project falls one vote shy EMILIO GHLOUM Another attempt to speed up the process of the Keystone XL pipeline was rejected by the U.S. Senate.

Being a contentious proposal since its conception nearly six years ago, the pipeline has repeatedly been a topic of environmental discussion throughout Canadian politics.

The Harper government has been urging the approval of the pipeline that would generate more revenue and jobs within Canada, while securing long-term economic prosperity.

The proposed pipeline would begin near the oilsands deposits in Alberta, and connect with the already existing pipeline in Steele

NOON

City, Nebraska. If approved, the transfer of bitumen extracted through Canadian facilities would be moved to U.S oil refineries on the Gulf Coast.

The pipeline would run through multiple states and cities, undeniably causing potential risk of spillage and environmental harm on its path. While there is heavy emphasis being placed on the productivity and job creation that would come with its establishment, the impact and effect that the pipeline would have on smaller communities would remain intrusive and harmful.

Singer-songwriter and environmental activist Neil Young has spoken out on multiple occasions against the oilsands industry. Currently on the Blue Dot Tour, fronted by prominent environmentalist David Suzuki, Young, alongside other Canadian musicians aim to bring urgency to Canada’s multiple

environmental concerns and contributions.

In an interview, Young claimed, “The real issue is do we want to have a clean planet. Do people in Canada deserve to have food that’s good and breathe clean air? If people in Canada all wanted that, it might be a good idea to put it in their constitution like so many other countries around the world.”

In order for the pipeline proposal to be passed and handed onto the desk of the President, 60 votes were needed by U.S. Senators. The bill failed to pass with a 59-41 vote- an extremely close result. Even though this specific vote failed to go through, another vote is expected to occur in 2015 that would see the Republican Party having a larger impact on the process.

While Canadian corporations are scrambling to get U.S. approval to begin construction of the pipeline, the White House remains vigilant in reviewing and

movies and more 7:00 PM

adhering to their own environmental process and review before rushing into any commitments.

President Obama spoke last year

assault causing bodily harm, possession of stolen property and weapons dangerous to the public peace. He has been held in custody pending a bail hearing on November 24, 2014.”

Further, in a statement released by campus authorities, the police urge anyone with information about the incident to step forward: “This investigation is ongoing, and the Guelph Police would ask that anyone with information in relation to this case is asked to contact D/Cst. Tang.” Anonymous tips can also be left at CRIME STOPPERS or submitted online

about the pipeline and stated it will only gain approval if it “does not significantly exacerbate the problem of carbon pollution.”

Upcoming events Nov. 28: Classes conclude Nov. 30: CATS ANONYMOUS Christmas Open House and Craft Sale. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at our shelter in Marsville. Come visit with the kitties, see our latest renovations, and share some Christmas cheer. Catnip toys and mats, organic cat grass, treats, crafts, gifts, baked goods, and so much more!

Dec.1: - World AIDS day - Exams begin Dec. 2: U of G 50 Challenge begins. UC Courtyard to host ‘Big 50’ Display, all day, to raise funds in support of the Library Learning Commons.

Dec. 3: International Day of Persons with Disabilities

Visit www.sundaycinema.ca for info on these Central Student Association events.

8:00 PM

7:00 PM DOORS

TOKYO POLICE CLUB

SAID THE WHALE & THE PACK A.D.

Frog in Hand

NOON HOUR Thurs Nov 27

DOCURAMA Thurs Nov 27

SUNDAY CINEMA Sun Nov 30

LIVE MUSIC Tues Dec 2

UC COURTYARD | FREE Dance, theatre, period costumes, and sword play.

Co-presented with Guelph Dance.

ROZANSKI 105 | FREE A crowdpleaser about the world’s worst soccer team.

Co-sponsored by the McLaughlin Library.

THORNBROUGH 1200 | $3 UoG stu • $8 gen Hunger Games meets Lord of the Flies.

Co-sponsored by Interhall.

PETER CLARK HALL | $25 UoG stu • $28 gen (plus s.c.) | All ages/Licensed Guitar riffing, a strong sense of melody, and a brilliant ear for unforgettable hooks.

Tickets at the CSA Main Office (Room 274 UC), The Brass Taps, and from www.ticketbreak.com.

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ARTS & CULTURE

The Weekly Scene: Guardians of the Galaxy 3 True-Sci-FiEpics out of 4 SAMEER CHHABRA Whereas Sony and Fox have been fighting their hardest to maintain some control over their respective franchises with varying results, Marvel Studios has yet to truly produce what anyone can call a bad movie. Even their lowestrated and poorest-earning films have still been at par with almost all of the best produced cinematic superhero offerings. What I’ve come to realize about the so-called “Marvel Method,” and what I hope other studios like DC will learn, is that the best superhero movies aren’t truly superhero movies at all. Instead, they’re genre films that simply happen to feature superheroes at their core. Captain American: The Winter Soldier and Thor: The Dark World succeeded because they worked within the confines of their respective genres (a spy-thriller and a fantasy film

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respectively), while also featuring an already popular series of characters.

Keeping in mind that the best comic books have been stories that just so happen to feature an already established cast of characters, Marvel Studios seems to have realized that making a good movie is all about focusing on the importance of writing, characterization, editing, and cinematography. There was a time when superhero movies were, at best, attempts to satisfy fans who wanted to see their favourite characters on film and were, at worst, cash grabs made by studios trying to push comic books.

In today’s cinematic age, thanks largely in part to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, superhero movies are simply well-made genre films.

In this same vein of cinematic purity, James Gunn’s Guardians of the Galaxy succeeds because of its adherence to the qualities of great science fiction and its decision to subvert the boring tropes that bog down weak sci-fi features.

Characters whiz about in deep space

amid a gorgeous landscape of stars and galaxies and planetary conflict set to an epic score undercut by hilariously anachronistic pop music. Characters are diverse and well-written, with their own unique quirks and idiosyncrasies.

There are multiple spaceship battles utilizing a variety of cool advanced technology. Most importantly, there’s a clear distinction between traditional effects, make-up, and CGI that makes even the most impossible visuals seem possible and real.

The main cast of Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Dave Bautista, Bradley Cooper, and Vin Diesel as the voice of a talking tree, share a cohesive and familiar chemistry. Furthermore, the underlying themes of their friendship – wanting to do more with their unimportant lives – is surprisingly mature, given the fact that Bradley Cooper voices a genetically enhanced raccoon and Vin Diesel’s only line is “I am Groot.” Cameos by Benicio del Toro (as Taneleer Tivan The Collector), Josh Brolin (as intergalactic warlord Thanos), and Glen Close further appease fans of the original source material.

Heroes aside, however, I was disappointed by the film’s cast of villains.

Lee Pace stars as the film’s main antagonist, Ronan the Accuser – a warhammer wielding radical hell-bent on the destruction of an entire galaxy

– and I was left underwhelmed by the character. Compared to the broad scope portrayed by the film’s cast of heroes, Ronan is relatively flat and one-note. Secondary antagonists like Nebula (played by Karen Gillan) and Korath (played by Djimon Hounsou) are equally dull.

Cinematography by Ben Davis allows the film’s more poignant moments to shine, whereas action and grandiose scale are perfectly encapsulated in every subsequent scene.

Director James Gunn has his tongue placed firmly in his cheek as the film finds the perfect balance between earnestness and not taking itself seriously in any capacity. Each sequence feels like Gunn is inviting the audience into his absurd, surreal vision of a very real galaxy.

Impossible to avoid mentioning are the film’s stunning colour palette – which should be used as a recruitment effort by NASA to convince people that space is awesome – and the film’s song selection – a collection of songs that score every scene with humour and emotion. Praise must be given to Tyler Bates, whose musical efforts deserve to be studied.

My only real complaints with the film are its forced efforts to tie-in the already established Marvel Cinematic Universe. Guardians of the Galaxy is undoubtedly part of the

COURTESY PHOTO

expansive MCU, and because of this fact, Thanos, the Infinity Stones, and the Nova Corps are introduced simply because future Marvel films require the set-up. Allow me to speak as a fan for a brief moment. Thanos was introduced as the man-behind-the-curtain in 2012’s The Avengers. It’s been two years, and moviegoers and fans alike have been waiting for the culmination of his grand plan, yet his reveal in this film is nothing more than an uninspired cameo. What should have been a grand reveal is admittedly rather weak.

Ignoring my complaints, Guardians of the Galaxy is a fantastic sci-fi feature that stars a talented cast clearly in tune with each other and their director. It’s well written, well shot, well edited, and contains an absolutely amazing soundtrack.

Book Review: Amy Poehler, Yes Please Comedian extraordinare Amy Poehler offers hardhitting advice with humour ALYSSA OTTEMA I have come to find that my favourite genre – when I have the opportunity to read for pleasure and not for work – is the humorous memoir. I spent much of my summer reading and re-reading the wise words of Kelly Oxford, Mindy Kaling, and Tina Fey. When I heard about Amy Poehler’s book release, I was excited to add another amazing book to my “re-read” list.

Ms. Poehler did not disappoint.

I am incredibly taken by people who can open the door to their imperfect lives and invite everyone in without asking them to take off their shoes.

Though she doesn’t like people knowing her shit, Poehler is a warm and welcoming hostess, encouraging her

guests to get in there and dig around, leaving them with wise words won on the battlefield of real life.

“Other people are not medicine” drops as a truth bomb, like words from a best friend who delivers “real-talk” when you need it most. Also filing into this category are nuggets of wisdom – “your brain is not your friend when you need to apologize” – harsh truths about the reality of the world – “it takes years as a woman to unlearn what you have been taught to be sorry for” – and sweet, poetic reminders – “Hey, shooting poison/In your face does not keep you/From turning 50.”

“I am interested in people who swim in the deep end,” Poehler writes, encouraging chances and risks and potential mistakes. “I want to have conversations about real things with people who have experienced real things.” The over-arching theme of Poehler’s anecdotal advice seems to be about making the best possible lemonade out of the lemons of pressure and promise that life throws your way.

“I believe great people do things before they are ready,” she concludes.

Though she champions those who go out and get theirs – those unafraid to both ask for and accept more than they might think they deserve – Poehler is

COURTESY PHOTO

also quick to emphasize that “it’s easier to be brave when you’re not alone.”

The most striking emphasis, however, in this collection of wisdom, energy, honesty, and charm is a modest mantra which we might all strive to live by: “I like hard work and I don’t like pretending things are perfect.”

Step into Poehler’s cheerful world of disarray and be greeted by someone who will always have your back. And though she might not ask you to, at least wipe your shoes off at the door.

No one likes to clean up someone else’s mess.

@theontarion

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8

ARTS & CULTURE

Sirens: Elektra in Bosnia at George Luscombe Theatre New play

by Judith Thompson probes the heart of darkness ADRIEN POTVIN Trigger Warning: sexual violence Running from Nov. 17 to 22, in the University of Guelph’s George Luscombe Theatre, playwright and theatre professor Judith Thompson’s Sirens: Elektra in Bosnia was performed and produced by students

in University of Guelph’s theatre program. Written and directed by Thompson, the play transposes characters from Electra, the Ancient Greek tragedy by Sophocles, into the modern conflict of the Bosnian War (1992-95). Told in a non-linear manner, and utilizing striking stage techniques, the play examines the banality of evil, the psychological depths of war, and how women suffer most at the hands of male aggression in conflict and warfare.

The play assumes knowledge of the Ancient Greek myth, but if you aren’t familiar with Sophocles, here’s a bit of a refresher. In the Electra story, Agamemnon is killed by the hands of his wife, Clytemnestra, for sacrificing their daughter, Iphigenia, before the Trojan War. Electra and her brother Orestes swear revenge

against their mother and their stepfather, Aegisthus, for the murder of Agamemnon.

Thompson’s play integrates figures from Sophocles’ Electra into a family, led by an Agamemnon who, in this piece, is a general. He offers Iphigenia (a war journalist) as collateral to his brother, Menelaus (Serb general) in exchange for the strategic port town of Sokolac.

Menelaus allows his men to rape, torture, and mutilate her, driving Agamemnon into a comatose guilt as he flees to live in a cave with his mistress, Cassandra.

When Agamemnon confronts his estranged family, he is shown Iphigenia’s remains by Clytemnestra. Upon seeing this, he has a heart attack and Clytemnestra does not aid him, an act of reluctant revenge

for the death of Iphigenia. Enraged, Electra drowns Clytemnestra in their bathtub, and is condemned by the gods to be killed and tortured every day of the rest of her life, unless her mother joins her from the other side of a hill when she calls to her.

The Bosnian War, part of the larger Yugoslav Wars, was characterized by ethnic cleansing, mass rapes, and widespread UN involvement, and is considered the worst conflict in Europe since World War II. Although the numbers of casualties are consistently debated, it is estimated that 100,000 people were killed, and nearly 40,000 of those were civilians. Ethnic cleansing characterized the conflict, as Bosnian women were raped en masse, holy sites and religious centres

The Namedroppers – Bored Bored Bored Guelph band’s debut LP offers raw, compelling post-punk ADRIEN POTVIN Guelph area-based post-punk outfit The Namedroppers released their first LP, Bored Bored Bored, earlier this month. Featuring songs mostly written by frontman/singer/guitarist Anthony Damaio, the album features The Namedroppers’ distinctive

energy, characterized by urgent, folk-tinged punk with just enough left-field fusion influence to take it to some strange and wonderful directions.

The album opens with some eerie, 50s sci-fi guitar noise, courtesy of brilliant lead guitarist Michael DiFelice, and segues into the dissonant, oddly structured “Invisible Hands.” Right off the bat, we are invited to the weird world of Damaio’s snarly, devil-may-care songwriting style, reminiscent of Tom Waits, Stephen Malkmus (Pavement) and Joe Strummer (The Clash) – sometimes all at once.

Laying the rhythm down with

ballsy conviction throughout the album’s runtime, drummer Stephen Gomboc and bassist Sam Dlugokecki establish themselves early on as a rhythm section to be reckoned with.

“Get Straight,” the album’s fourth track, showcases the group’s folk influence most clearly. With a carnivalesque cynicism straight out of a Tom Waits tune (with all the voice rasp), “Get Straight” showcases a solemn refrain from the album’s hard-hitting volume and energy, and this P.T. Barnum-meets-Pixies circus theme is continued in the following track, “Pagliacci’s Day Out,” a bizarre, tongue-in-cheek reference to the

clown from Ruggero Leoncavallo’s opera of the same name.

“Astroboy” marks a more spaced-out turn for the album – Damaio’s primal snarl is in top form here against a hypnotic ¾ groove and elusive lyrics. “Rotor” is, in many ways, the piece de resistance of the LP. A lulling, cyclical guitar/vocal section is bookended by long blasts of volume, a dynamic akin to Wire and Fugazi. “For I have loved you/For all your metal parts/I have no heart/I need no heart” – here, the sum is equal to all the parts, not unlike the mechanical theme of the tune.

“Smaller,” the album’s closer, is

30 years of Madonna Looking back at the career of the controversial pop starlet CADEN MCCANN In November 1984, Sire Records would release Madonna’s sophomore record Like a Virgin. Anchored by hit singles like the title track and “Material Girl,” the album would catapult Madonna from up-and-coming dance diva to pop icon almost overnight. Thirty years onward, Miss Ciccone has maintained this position with a legacy of some of the greatest dance songs of the past three decades,

and a penchant for controversy, which has shown no sign of dwindling with age.

The story of Like a Virgin begins in 1983, when Madonna was a young, power-hungry pop star with a modestly successful debut album (the self-titled Madonna) under her belt.

Looking to distance herself from the horde of other pop divas on the scene with her second album, Madge would team up with producer Nile Rodgers, of the disco band Chic, who gave her sound a heavy funk makeover.

Wrapped in album art that provocatively mixed religious iconography and unbridled sexuality, the record’s unique sound and edgy marketing would result in the sale of over 21 million albums worldwide.

Although Madonna’s debut was arguably a better album, Like a Virgin was the singer’s coming out party. Whether it be singing

were routinely and systemically destroyed, and children were forced to kill and fight in the conflict.

What Thompson and co. have accomplished here is impressive – the play deftly transposes collective, historical trauma into an abstract family drama, via the universality of Ancient Greek tragedy, which viscerally devastates the audience. The gunshot sounds, very real-looking prop guns and military costumes, chilling artworks projected behind the stage, and eerie fog machines crafted a stage that posits the audience directly into the madness of war and its effects on individuals, families, and nations. One of the many lines that stuck out read, “Hell is where the enemy goes” – words resonant now, in the past and, unfortunately, the future.

the poppiest song on the LP, but nonetheless a great closing track.

Its upbeat feel and chimey guitars offer a refrain from the vague, intangible dread pervading many of the album’s cuts.

Overall, Bored Bored Bored is heavy, compelling, strange, and tons of fun. But there’s a bit of something here for everyone to enjoy – it’s a bit too folky to be considered “post-punk” proper, and not organic enough to be considered folk-punk, and that’s totally fine. Who’s keeping track, really? Give it a listen and see what you think. Beware, though – you might want to break shit while doing it.

fellatio-referencing lyrics on “Like a Prayer” or hanging on a neon cross on her Confessions tour, the Madonna package of club-ready pop and edgy juxtaposing of sex and religion was blue-printed on the singer’s sophomore record. There have been few albums, for any artist before or since, that have been so single-handedly career-defining.

Like a Virgin established Madonna both commercially and artistically, but taken on its own, it’s also just a fine piece of music worth revisiting.

From the famous singles to lesserknown cuts like the sublime “Angel,” the album is a masterpiece of New York funk and 80s pop. With her vapid “Who’s seen Molly?” commentary and lackluster singles like “4 Minutes,” it has become easy to dismiss Madonna in recent years, but her sophomore effort remains a fresh and invigorating listen.

Issue 175.13 • Thursday, November 27, 2014

Talking Zavitz

An exhibition called The Special Special WILL WELLINGTON

This week, Zavitz Gallery and Project Space (Alexander 365) features The Special Special, an exhibition of works by students in the fourth-year Specialized Studio class. It opened on Nov. 24, and runs until Nov. 28. I wandered through Zavitz Gallery with Rachel Wallace, a Philosophy major in her final year, talking about the work. This is a selection from our conversation: Rachel: It’s a group show, so it’s hard to make things hang together, but I like the way they’ve arranged it. There are these different zones, sort of

ARTS & CULTURE

like when you go to a big gallery and there are all these different rooms. But even with all these different things, it doesn’t feel incoherent. I’m just really curious about everything. I want to hear the stories. It seems like a good sort of space for coming up with stories. I could just sprawl out on the floor and be like, “What’s going on here?”

Will: What’s going on in this piece?

Rachel: There’s just so much going on. At first, I glossed over the objects. I think the lipstick really had me feeling, “oh, these are just objects that people would have lying around.” But they’re all just the tiniest bit old, like batteries and cassette tapes. I recognize them from my childhood.

I’ve used them substantially, but they’re not something I use in my everyday life.

Will: You have some things that look quite old. I guess you might say that they take part in a standard vocabulary of age. But then there are other things, like the lipstick, which look very contemporary but just a little bit off.

Rachel: It reminds me a bit of when, as a kid, I would find a junk drawer in my grandparents house. You would look at some things and think, “Oh, this has no bearing on my life,” and you’d look at other things and go, “Oh my goodness, this is such a treasure. How could anyone pass over this? Why is this thing hiding in a drawer?” Just the colour of something, or that it was a shape you’d never seen before. It makes me wonder what features of these objects were picked up on and how the arrangement is drawing them out in ways that I might not be realizing right now.

WILL WELLINGTON

The Special Special, a group show by the studio art program’s Specialized Studio course, focuses on how disparate parts and vague memories can create a cohesive whole – all in a large, intermedia group art setting.

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Ottawa-based indie pop outfit Hilotrons, as well as Guelph-based Odd Years performed at eBar on Friday, Nov. 21. Hilotrons’ sound is characterized by upbeat synth, and guitar melodies, and syncopated beats, at times reminiscent of both 60s pop and 80s New Wave. Odd Years, featuring members of regional heavyweights Minotaurs, Cuff the Duke, and Lowlands, write richly arranged alt-country songs that reflect the skills of their respective members and the groups they belong to.

Upcoming events

Nov. 28: Luis Jacob: Big Ideas in Art and Culture Lecture. 7 p.m. at Musagetes (6 Dublin St).

Free admission.

Nov. 28: Fortnight Music presents Lowlands/Dirty Frigs/Rival Boys. 10 p.m. at eBar. $12 at door, $10 advance Nov. 29: When Rivers Meet: The Culminating Performance of Improviser-in-Residence DongWon Kim’s Residency. 7 p.m. at River Run Centre.

Nov. 29: The GALACTICATS!/Do Tell/Father Christmas. 8 p.m. at Silence (46 Essex St). $10 Nov. 29: University of Guelph Choirs present A Christmas Truce: Songs of War and Peace, 1914-2014. 8 p.m. at St. George’s Anglican Church. $15.

Nov. 29: 2nd annual Brenda Lewis & Gayle Ackroyd Christmas Harmonies Concert at Magnolia Café, 8 to 10 p.m. $20 at door, $15 advance.

Nov. 30: Guelph Chamber Choir presents “Carols For Christmas: Carols & Seasonal Readings for Christmas and Winter.” 3 p.m. at St. George’s Anglican Church, Tickets call 519-763-3000.

9

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10

SPORTS & HEALTH

From OHL to CIS hockey Andrew D’Agostini, Mac Nichol talk what it means to be a student athlete STEPHANIE CORATTI For some, the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) is simply an opportunity to play in front of sold out crowds with access to some of the best professional development tools.

For others, it’s seen as a fast track to the NHL. Combine the two, however, and lacing up for an OHL team will always be a dream come true.

Sometimes lost among the various roads the OHL offers is the chance to

follow junior hockey careers up with university education and a Canadian Interuniversity Student (CIS) athletic career.

For former Guelph Storm defenceman Mac Nichol, making the transition to CIS hockey at the University of Guelph was easy. Following three seasons and 68 games in the OHL, the Listowel, Ontario native went on to play two seasons in the Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League (GOJHL) for the Listowel Cyclones and the Kitchener Dutchmen while continuing to live with his billet family.

“Blair, Lori, Katelyn, and Nathan Bowman became a second family to me,” Nichol explained. “As a result, I was able to continue my success at the university level and begin to [take on] an increased work load.”

Aiming to become a police officer, Nichol is part of the Criminal Justice and Public Policy program at U of G and continues to make an impact on the ice. Before looking ahead, however,

recognizing where you come from is influential for the defenceman.

“Playing in the OHL, you learn a lot about being a hockey player, but more importantly you learn life lessons much more important for your growth as a person,” Nichol explained, listing time management and the allimportant ‘big picture’ perspective as significant examples.

“It was an unbelievable experience,” he added. “Playing junior hockey for five years was easily the best part of my life thus far – meeting life long friends, having lasting memories, it’s what it’s all about, and I can’t thank former Storm General Manager and Head Coach Jason Brooks for the opportunity at age 16, and current General Manager Mike Kelly for everything.”

Nichol isn’t alone in looking at the ‘big picture.’ Andrew D’Agostini, former goaltender for the Peterborough Petes and now-Guelph Gryphon, also understands the importance of the right perspective.

During five seasons with the Petes, D’Agostini kept busy with classes

at Trent University and was largely influential in the community, raising funds and awareness for cystic fibrosis.

D’Agostini continues to support this cause as a Gryphon, with the Saves for CF initiative.

“Hockey will always be my priority, because I do intend to move up to professional hockey as soon as I can,” the Scarborough, Ontario native explained. “At the same time, I think I was one of those cases where I understood the big picture and I wanted to make an impact. It’s gotten me to where I am today.”

Unlike Nichol, D’Agostini was faced with the challenge of leaving his home of five years for a completely new start.

“The one thing about Guelph is that it reminded me a little bit of Peterborough,” D’Agostini said of the decision, adding he wanted to remain close to home. “The school had a lot to offer and I love the atmosphere. I said if I was going to do the university thing, I wanted to enjoy everything that comes with it – not just the hockey part.”

Fresh off the highest moments of

his hockey career – in the 2014 OHL playoffs that saw the Petes become the fourth team in OHL history to rally from a 3-0 deficit to oust the Kingston Frontenacs (a series the netminder described as “war”) – D’Agostini recognizes the contributors to both the athlete and person he is now.

“I gave it everything I had in my five years, and this is where it’s brought me,” the Bachelor of Commerce student explained. “I’ve gotten a lot out of the [OHL]. I said I was going to leave with no regrets and make sure you made every day productive, and I got the best out of it.”

“It’s about optimizing your time and taking advantage of every little thing,” D’Agostini explained.

“Being able to lace up the skates in the best development league in Canada was a privilege,” Nichol added.

Sharing that privilege, both are Guelph Gryphons teammates looking ahead to what may be next.

“I don’t know what the future holds,” D’Agostini concluded, “but it’s up to me to decide that.”

An ode to Vince Carter POSTGRADUATE CERTIFICATE

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Remembering the past and moving forward EMILIO GHLOUM I remember when I first became a Raptors fan – when I first really started watching the beautiful game of basketball – falling in love with my hometown Toronto Raptors. Morris Peterson, Jalen Rose, and Jerome Williams were the dream team in my books. Of course, they were led by great fans, and a great leader: Vince Carter.

Carter was the face of the franchise – he continuously, and almost solely, put Toronto on the NBA radar. His performance in the 2000 Slam Dunk competition was mesmerizing, and his in-game dunks were arguably some of the best the NBA has ever seen.

From 1998 to 2004, Raptors fans got to witness the growth and rise of a superstar. Although the team has yet to make it to the second round of the playoffs since the inaugural season in 1995, fans stood by the team and their superstar.

Of course, all good things must come to an end. It came time that Carter, after six years in a Raptors uniform, decided to move on. Towards the end of his tenure as a Raptor, many questioned the effort Carter put into each game. As he became riddled with injuries, his explosive, acrobatic

dunks became less frequent, placing him under heavy scrutiny by the fans.

After a couple of horrible seasons, and through accusations of faking an injury, Carter demanded a trade to finally continue his career away from Toronto. Needless to say, this outraged many fans – myself included.

I remember watching the next few seasons after Carter left – it was brutal. The team was in shambles, under poor management and filled with shoddy personalities. Many fans endured through these seasons, and a large majority were bitter at Carter’s blatant dismissal and betrayal of Toronto.

Now that the team has finally formed a solid foundation under Derozan, Lowry, and Coach Dwayne Casey, the dust has finally settled. On Nov. 19, the Raptors and the city of Toronto displayed a tremendous amount of compassion and respect towards the man they once loathed. A beautiful video tribute brought home feelings of nostalgia to the Air Canada Centre crowd as the Raptors took on the Memphis Grizzlies.

In commemorating the Raptors’ 20th anniversary as an NBA franchise, videos have been made to honour a few select individuals who have shown passion and dedication in a Raptors uniform. Undoubtedly, Vince Carter deserved to be on that list – and perhaps even at the top of it. His time as a Raptor was simply unforgettable – making a video tribute dedicated to him was necessary.

RJ URSUA VIA CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Vince Carter was the first superstar player of a young Raptors team, establishing a proud and passionate fanbase.

The video itself was well done, and it even had Carter in tears as he thanked the Toronto crowd. Perhaps the most important aspect about this moment is forgiveness. After the video tribute, and a standing ovation from the Toronto crowd, it became clear that the fans had finally moved on. With the current Raptors roster giving fans a lot to cheer about, there is absolutely no need to stay bitter and angry about what happened in the past. By cheering for Carter, rather than booing him, fans showed poise, respect, and class both to him and to the NBA. Only by forgiving the past can we move forward – in thanking Carter, the Raptors have taken a step forward, beginning to write their own story as an emerging team with tremendous heart and hustle.

Issue 175.13 • Thursday, November 27, 2014

SPORTS & HEALTH

11

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY MOHAMMAD MELEBARI

On Nov. 21, the Guelph Gryphons women’s basketball team suffered their first loss at home with the Queen’s Gaels taking the contest 65-55. The Gaels broke out with an early lead and the Gryphons never recovered despite a late comeback effort led by Bridget Atkinson and Katherine MacTavish. The men’s Gryphons basketball team had a different result, downing the York Lions 63-56 on Nov. 21. A second half comeback drove the Gryphons to the win, including three pointers from Jack Beatty and Daniel Dooley to take the lead.

Storm soundly wins two in a row Solid play pushes Storm to 12-9-0-1 on the season STEPHANIE CORATTI There’s no doubting that the Guelph Storm have been riding a rollercoaster so far this season, with just as many lows, as there have been highs. However, the defending champions put together two strong, and complete, performances for victories over the Plymouth Whalers on Nov. 21, and their highway seven rival in the Kitchener Rangers on Nov. 23.

For the second consecutive home game, the Storm pocketed nine goals in a 9-3 win over the Whalers. Robby Fabbri recorded his second hat-trick of the month, with rookie Matthew Hotchkiss finding the back of the net twice.

In addition, sophomore Adam Craievich broke a 20-game scoreless drought, and Chris Marchese – acquired hours prior to the game from the Windsor Spitfires – also scored in the contest.

Despite the lopsided score, the match-up was a nail-biter through two periods of play.

Just four minutes into the game, Storm rookie defenseman Austin Hall scored his second of the season, firing one past Whalers’ netminder Alex Nedeljkovic.

KARYN STEPIEN

Acquired hours prior to the Guelph Storm’s match-up against the Plymouth Whalers on Nov. 21, Chris Marchese registered a goal and two assists in the 9-3 victory. On Nov. 23 in the 3-0 over the Kitchener Rangers, Marchese also notched an assist before injuring his finger in the contest.

The lead would be short lived, however, as Bryce Yetman got the Whalers on the board to tie the game minutes later.

Fabbri would be next, allowing the home squad to close out the period with a 2-1 lead, capitalizing on a pass from defenseman Noah Carroll on the rush.

The middle frame began with the Storm on a four-minute power play, an advantage Fabbri would pocket his second of the game on with an incredible deke to put Guelph ahead by two.

Not quite out of it yet, the

Whalers responded quickly as Mathieu Henderson brought Plymouth back within one.

Back on the power play later in the period, Fabbri registered his third of the game – and his second hat trick of November – restoring the two-goal lead for the Storm off a beautiful pass from Tyler Bertuzzi.

Matt Mistele would capitalize next, bringing the Whalers within one to end the middle frame.

However, that would be the last for Plymouth, as the Storm exploded for five unanswered

goals in the third period to solidify the 9-3 win.

Zac Leslie was notable on the back end for Guelph, recording three assists in the contest.

Between the pipes, Nichols turned away 29 saves in the win, while Nedeljkovic stopped 39 of 48 shots fired his way.

The following Sunday on Nov. 23, Guelph hosted the Kitchener Rangers for the first time this season, on the hunt for their first win against the highway seven rivals after being defeated twice previously in Kitchener.

Unlike the Storm’s two prior home games, the contest didn’t feature nine goal celebrations; instead, it was a full 60-minutes of gritty hockey with Nichols recording the shutout.

The 32-save shutout moved the St. Catharines native into a fifth-place tie with former Storm goaltender Ryan MacDonald on the franchise shutout list, both with five.

Opening the scoring was defenseman Ben Harpur, who blasted one in from the blue line six minutes into the game. The go-ahead goal would be Harpur’s first of three points on the night.

The second period saw Bertuzzi extend the lead to two off a onetimed shot, set up perfectly by Fabbri who was behind the Rangers’ net. Despite the 2-0 advantage on the scoreboard heading into the second intermission, the shots were a close 19-18 in favour of the Storm, a subtle reminder to many that the game was far from over.

Nichols put on a solid performance in the blue paint, turning away 14 shots in the third period to fend off any chance of Kitchener clawing back into the game.

It would be Bertuzzi who would pocket his second of the game, and the insurance marker, with the empty netter to give the Storm a 3-0 victory over their highway seven rivals.

The loss was the Rangers’ first regulation loss in 16 games.

Guelph hits the road next to face off against the North Bay Battalion on Nov. 27.

COURTESY PHOT

A look at King’s life and impact EMILIO GHLOUM AND EMILY JONES

HARTLEY GOODWEATHER

Retired University of Guelph professor Thomas King has cultivated a strong presence in the Guelph community. A celebrated author, radio broadcaster, and lecturer, King has contributed multiple works, giving voice to First Nations people across North America.

Announced on Nov.18, the Canada Council for the Arts chose King as the recipient of the Governor General’s Literary Award in English-language Fiction for his novel The Back of the Turtle. During a conversation with King, he said that he was “in Vancouver on Grandville Island” when he found out of his win. He said he was “there for the Vancouver book festival.”

King has received numerous awards for his fiction and non-fiction works over the years. When asked about how it feels to be recognized he said, “…I never know how to feel about that, it was nice. There is a sort of detachment from writing a book and winning an award. All of the pleasure is in the writing for me. […] That is where the passion lies.”

"The truth about sto

TO

Thomas King wins prestigious Governor General’s Literary Award

The Governor General’s Literary Award is one of the most prestigious prizes among Canadians. Created in 1937, the awards are extremely coveted by Canadian literary authors, and have since cultivated a storied and powerful list of winners.

King has established himself as one of Canada’s most skilled writers, making the shortlist for the literary award on three separate occasions. Funnily enough, when receiving the call for winning the Governor General’s Literary Award, King thought it was “too early for them to be announcing winners because the shortlist had just come out.” He believed he was possibly going to be asked to sit on a panel of judges.

“I never know [what it is people will be drawn to], when I write a novel, I write it for myself the best I can,” said King, when asked about his newest work of fiction, The Back of the Turtle. King said. “Then, [I] send it out into the world, like you would a child after you have raised it.” Everyone who reads a novel will come up with their own perspective, but “[…] the novel deals with the idea[s] of community, and the idea of planetary stewardship,” which are topics on the minds of many today. “We’ve gotten to the point where the communities we had, have slipped away from us […] I don’t know if communities are as strong as they used to be.”

This past spring, King also won the 2014 RBC Taylor Award for his non-fiction book, The Inconvenient Indian: A Curious Account of Native People in North America. The book showcased King’s experience and passion as a teacher and First Nations activist. King was a professor at the University of Guelph for 17 years, of which he said that he “enjoy[ed] talking with young people, and working with them in a classroom setting.”

Furthermore, in 2003, King was invited to be a participant in CBC’s Massey Lectures - the first person of aboriginal descent to be named a lecturer. King delivered his lecture entitled The Truth About Stories: A Native Narrative, which tackled various issues through an interwoven narrative of storytelling - showcasing tales of oral native history, politics, and religion.

King was also named a member of the Order of Canada in 2004, a recognition that emphasizes his importance and influence as a writer-activist to Canadians across the nation.

King’s storytelling has continued to inspire many within the Guelph community. His focus on the importance of storytelling remains something constant throughout his writings. Using traditional native narratives to weave stories and tell intricate, yet simplistic, tales allows for an impactful reading of King’s work and his message.

“I don’t know if I always wanted to be a writer, but I always told stories, from as long as I can remember. I wrote poetry when I was young - awful poetry […] I guess I slipped into it as a reader. I enjoyed reading stories, [and telling them] so it seemed natural to write stories,” said King. King also shared a personal fact that is quite a big part of his story, “[I] didn’t start seriously working as a writer until I came to Canada in 1980, and there is was to impress a woman, to be honest with you.” When asked if it worked, he replied, “she’s still with me.”

It is clear that King has a tremendous ability to give a unique voice and perspective onto social, political, and moral issues. King said that he “spent some time in New Zealand as a photojournalist,” which got him “into the mode of telling stories.” In an interview after the release of one of King’s earlier novels, King was asked if he saw himself as an intellectual worker - he stated “If you had asked me that 10 years ago, I would have said, ‘Yes, I see myself as an intellectual activist.’ But if you ask me that today, I’m not sure that I would try to take that on. And the reason is because - in my novels, I do get into a form of intellectual activism.”

King’s legacy as a prominent figure in the Guelph community has flourished under the national spotlight. His numerous awards and accomplishments demonstrate the need for a motivational and influential figure to discuss pertinent social and political issues. By communicating his stories and voice through multiple mediums, King’s work will forever encompass the spirit of his message.

COURTESY PHOTO

COURTESY PHOTO

COURTESY PHOTO

ories is, that's all we are."

COURTESY PHOTO

-Thomas King

14

SPORTS & HEALTH

Mental health & wellness: Combating the Winter Blues S.A.D? You’re not alone JULIA NOEL For some, the first snowfall signals an unfortunate emotional response called the “winter blues”. Some people interpret winter as being a lonely, dark, and an overall depressing time of year.

Feelings of hopelessness and sadness can become overwhelming and really place a strain on the mind. Sleep schedules go out of whack, carbs become a real comfort, and it seems like the negative thoughts never end. A decrease in mood is predominant, as real emotions get replaced by that “meh” feeling. There is a diagnosis for this ailment – S.A.D. Seasonal Affective Disorder refers to prolonged annual feelings of depression during a specified season – the season often being winter. It’s kind of sad that the acronym is S.A.D. because it is such a recurring theme. If you are feeling sad this winter, do not

lose hope, because there are many ways to help yourself embrace the weather.

Winter depression is believed to be related to light, meaning the lack of sun due to shortened daylight hours. In the wintertime, we absorb less vitamin D from the sun than the rest of the year. Known as the “sunshine vitamin,” the lack of vitamin D is known to be related to depression.

Everybody knows the feeling of going through the entire day and then realizing you haven’t gone outdoors yet. Sunshine and happiness seem to go together, so waking up early to enjoy the small amount of sun we are awarded is a way to feel more energized. Milk, eggs, and orange juice all contain vitamin D, so a good breakfast can actually make you happier. Participating in a winter sport is another

way to get outside regularly or on occasion. Skiing, snowboarding, tubing, skating, tobogganing are

all options.

Winter is unavoidably an archetype for death, so it’s difficult to ignore the real-life symbolism sometimes. The trees lose their

leaves, and it seems as though the entire world turns grey. The challenge is to not let it get to you. Ignore the fact that everyone is sickly and the snow is only going to be pretty for a little while. In my unprofessional opinion, friends and family are the best cure for sadness.

Spending time with someone you love and who loves you is the best possible distraction.

If you’re not feeling social, there’s nothing wrong with watching a movie, playing video games, or doing something creative to divert your mind.

Maybe animals hibernate for a reason other than the decrease in available food and difficulty surviving in the winter.

It is easier to stay in bed, than it is to get out of it, but we’re not bears, so oversleeping is not healthy. It’s important to be motivated to get out of bed, as well

as to get to sleep at a reasonable hour. Eating healthy is another way to feel better in general. It is a challenge during this time of year because there are cookies and mashed potatoes everywhere, but don’t forget about eating fruits and vegetables. Vitamin C is a natural way to prevent becoming sick.

All I’m saying is that, although winter can suck, there are many ways to pick yourself up – they just take more effort than they normally would. S.A.D is not uncommon, and a fair portion of the population experiences the winter blues. Try not to over think the negative things and don’t let stress become overwhelming. Take time to appreciate the people and talents that you are blessed with in life.

If you are reading this newspaper, you are privileged, so make sure to not take anything for granted.

Decorate for Christmas; make plans with friends, and maybe even play in the snow. So now when the snow falls, don’t let your spirit falter.

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION

BY JESSICA AVIOLO

Mental health & wellness: Modern technology and mental health A look at the effects of today’s social outlets BROOK RAGAN You’ve probably noticed it for yourself, you walk into the cafeteria with your tray and the place is glowing with screens.

You work at the library, and your neighbours’ monitors are displaying the prominent blue and white colours of Facebook. Here’s the question, how many times have you asked yourself, “I wonder how many emails he’s sent? I wonder how many pictures of her friends she’s been staring at?”

Rarely does this question come up: “I wonder how this has been affecting them everyday.”

The problem with living our life through screens is the attraction to digital media itself, and its implications on the growing problem of mental health concerns.

This has become a greater issue for the university demographic.

With a greater emphasis on student mental health, a new call system has been created within the past few years to help suffering students reach out.

Good2Talk, a recently established call-line, and partner with KidsHelpPhone, has been made to aid distressed students seek help through a 24-hour call-line. This call-line, with a great amount of attention, receives over 1,000 student callers monthly.

“...aid distressed students seek help through a 24-hour call-line.”

How does this tie into digital media for students everyday?

First is the mass of information we consume. We are exposed to more information than any previous era, because any screen we have is a vast outlet for keeping connected and informed.

“But evolution hasn’t kept pace

with the information revolution,” Jonathan Gatehouse states. In his 2014 MacLean’s article, Gatehouse not only writes on the stress of digital media, but on the aggravation of coping with multitasking and daily distractions.

One important factor Gatehouse notes is the stress induced with clutter in our lives, and how this can be linked with the stress hormone cortisol.

There is a valid reason to recognize why digital media is a culprit in weighing university students down. In the article “Your Facebook can undermine your mental health,” Travis Lupick writes that the style of being a passive participant on Facebook leads to more gazes on other people’s posts and photos that can ultimately result in a negative effect on your wellbeing. Facebook researcher Hanna Kranosova has found several elements of the social networking site to lead to excessive social comparison. First is the fact that users have access to information never had before. This information is mainly positive, and the information coming from users is similar to the users consuming it.

These properties are what attract

so many Facebook users, and so many problems. Anderssen of the Globe and Mail has found notable research regarding trends ranging from eating disorders to depression in teenage girls obsessed with Facebook.

It also seems that ‘app’ devel-

“...female undergraduate students spend approximately 10 hours on their phones per day.” opers and software companies are finding ways to get more attention. The fact that we stare at our phones more today has been a growing concern for recent research. The term “text effect” has been coined to refer the early wear and tear on the spine that results from constantly bending the neck to gaze at a phone. This does not just become a matter of spinal health either; in younger generations, bad posture can

severely limit one’s lung capacity, and has been linked to headaches, neurological issues, depression, and heart disease. This is a continuous concern, especially after a noted study by Baylor University in Texas published surveyed results stating that, on average, female undergraduate students spend approximately 10 hours on their phones per day.

It is known that depression, anxiety and stress patterns are all linked. The problem with being constantly distracted and seduced by digital technology is the unawareness of how your body is engaged to it. Anderssen has noted that research on individuals constantly checking emails has been linked to increased heartbeat and blood pressure. She even cites research done by Stanford that suggests that people take shorter breathes, and even hold their breaths entirely, while doing simple web searches.

Students should always consider more awareness when socializing and interacting online because more evidence supports healthier patterns. Like the cliché says, everything in moderation is the key.

Issue 175.13 • Thursday, November 27, 2014

SPORTS & HEALTH

15

Perceiving the world in multiple sensations Study shows adults can be trained to experience Synesthesia JOANNE PEARCE What if I told you that, for some people, eating a piece of toast is music to their ears? Your first thought might be that I am making a somewhat unusual metaphor to describe just how amazing toast is for certain individuals. In actuality, there is a rare condition called synesthesia that allows individuals to have two or more senses intertwine with each other. For some, this manifests itself in such a way that taste and sound entwine; but the most common expression of this phenomenon is that of grapheme-colour synesthesia (GCS) — where an individual interprets letters or numbers as colours.

What is fascinating about this condition is that a new study published in Scientific Reports has found that by doing daily brain exercises, individuals can be trained to have different perceptions of colours to black font.

Conducted at the University of Sussex, Daniel Bor and Nicolas Rothen led colleagues in a nineweek period with 14 participants.

For 30 minutes a day, the group would be trained to associate 13 letters from the English alphabet to certain colours. By the end of the study, a majority of participants exhibited phenomenological experiences that were very similar to the responses of genuine GCS. Some even reported that they felt certain emotions toward letters, like X was boring and W calm.

The group increased in 12 IQ points between the start and finish of the study. It is likely the training, more than the synesthesia itself, is behind the change.

IQ tests are largely reliant on pattern recognition and memory and the testing session, lasting around three hours before and after training, included working memory and long-term memory assessments, among others, which could attribute to this improvement.

Dr. Rothen made clear the study’s results: “It should be emphasised that we are not claiming to have

trained non-synaesthetes to become genuine synaesthetes.

When we retested our participants three months after training, they had largely lost the experience of ‘seeing’ colours when thinking about the letters. But it does show that synaesthesia is likely to have a major developmental component, starting for many people in childhood.”

The cause of synesthesia is still a matter of debate; some argue that it is a genetic component while others argue it comes from environmental influences. For example, the neonatal hypothesis brings forward the hypothesis that all people are born with synesthesia, but as we develop and mature, the neuronal connections are pruned such that we no longer associate colours, emotions, and tastes with other senses. The few who grew up with synesthesia would have had reduced neuronal pruning in comparison.

Provisional polygenetic evidence suggests that there is indeed a genetic component, but when scientists look at monozygotic twins, where one twin has synesthesia but the other doesn’t, it seems that the genetic component is actually only moderate.

The fact that most GCS conditions tend to emerge in the early stages of schooling raises the possibility that there is a considerable learning component.

Bor’s study seems to support this hypothesis: “It is possible that learning pressures, for instance for digits and letters, during early school years in certain individuals may lead to the formation of various semantic hooks, to aid memory, with color-letter associations a prime candidate. These habitual memory aids may then crystallize into synesthetic traits.”

The study has further implications: Bor, at a press conference,

DAVID FOLTZ CC BY-ND 2.0

Study shows that some human brains can be guided for the production of Synesthesia, a neurological condition in which the brain perceives stimuli as a combination of two or more senses. noted that one of the main implications is that profound new ways to perceive the world could be brought about by undergoing extensive perceptual training.

Though temporary, this could led to cognitive training tools that might aid in treating individuals with sensory processing disorders, which occupational therapist and neuroscientist Dr. A.J. Ayres equates to a neurological “traffic jam.” Two vulnerable groups fall under this category: those with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and adults suffering from dementia.

As the study hopes to continue research, moving on to different languages that participants do not already know to see if the effect will last longer, it will be interesting to see the extent to which we can train ourselves in perceiving a whole new world.

Upcoming events Nov. 27: Men’s Hockey: Ryerson @ Guelph (7 p.m., Gryphon Centre) Nov. 29: - Women’s Hockey: Nipissing @ Guelph (2 p.m., Gryphon Centre) - Women’s Volleyball: McMaster @ Guelph (6 p.m., W.F. Mitchell Athletic Centre) - Men’s Volleyball: McMaster @ Guelph (8 p.m., W.F. Mitchell Athletic Centre) Nov. 30: Women’s Hockey: Laurentian @ Guelph (2 p.m., Gryphon Centre)

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16

LIFE

ASHLEY STREET

Author Ashley Street recommends winter camping as a way to explore, relax, and enjoy nature during the cold winter months.

Yurting: a comfortable way to have a winter wilderness holiday Try to fit in a winter camping trip this year ASHLEY STREET Big, transoceanic, intercontinental trips certainly have their appeal, but for many of us, time constraints and financial limitations may mean that these big trips aren’t quite yet realistic.

If you find yourself in this situation, do not despair! There are plenty of amazing and affordable places to visit within Canada, and such trips can help you connect with your inner patriot as you come to appreciate some of the places which make this country so great.

Camping is the perfect way to have an inexpensive holiday and experience some of the great outdoors, and, most importantly, it’s not just a summer activity.

Tent-camping in the winter can be very challenging, and can get quite expensive if you don’t come from a family of outdoors people who have gear readily available. Fortunately, there are several comfortable alternatives to bringing your own shelter. Yurts are traditional Mongolian dwellings which are a cross between a tent and cabin.

They are moveable, extremely comfortable, weather resistant, and they are available to rent in Ontario!

Many provincial parks now offer yurts year-round, in addition to cabins, platform tents, and traditional tentcamping lots. Instead of being made

from traditional materials, like wood and animal skins, the yurts offered in Ontario Parks are made of a thermal, weather-resistant fabric placed over a metal frame, and built on a wooden platform. They are equipped with heaters and bunk-beds, and can fit up to six people. Some yurts even allow pets, so you can bring along your beloved dog – or cat. While there are fire-pits available with all the yurts, they also come with a barbeque and a sheltered eating area. The comfortable environment of a yurt gives you a great base from which to explore some of the most picturesque Canadian landscapes without sacrificing convenience. Ontario Parks have far fewer visitors in the winter, so there is more of an authentic sense of being alone with nature and with your close friends or family than at other times of the year.

If you do decide to spend a night or two in a yurt, activities you can take part in include snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, hiking, and, at some parks, even skating. Macgregor Point creates and maintains an ice-trail through the woods for visitors to skate on. No matter how old you are it’s hard not to pretend you’ve just stepped into the movie Frozen. I know it makes me want to build a snow man.

After a day of exploring, you can come back to your comfy yurt without worries, and enjoy the rest of your evening. Since you don’t have to worry about maintaining a fire or shelter for survival, you can sit back with a glass of whatever suits you – hot cacao, coffee, a glass of wine, the list goes on – and enjoy!

STUART VIA CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Shade-grown coffee plantations help provide essential habitats for multiple species of birds.

The environmental benefits of shade grown coffee Modern farming techniques detrimental to tropical biodiversity CONNOR ARSENAULT For many of us, the first thing that enters our minds when we wake up in the morning is how to get our hands on a cup of coffee. It doesn’t matter much where it comes from, how much it costs, or what lengths we have to go to in order to get it. All that matters is that we get that everso-good dose of caffeine.

For most of us, coffee comes from the Tim Horton’s or the Starbucks around the corner. It’s a stretch to consider the brew in our hands having ever come from a plant or to imagine the process by which the coffee bean comes to be prepared for consumption.

Traditionally, coffee has been grown in shaded environments. The shade in these coffee plantations comes from the upwards of 25 different tree species that are incorporated into the landscape. The trees provide innumerable benefits, and are key to the sustainability of the coffee plantation.

Firstly, trees do wonders in terms of adding nutrients to the soil. The leaves that fall off of trees rejuvenate the soil onto which they fall, and this greatly reduces- if not eliminates- the need to use fertilizer to achieve sustained yields

from year to year. Another nutrient input occurs through the nitrogenfixating activity of some of the trees that grow in the plantations. This is the process by which inorganic atmospheric nitrogen (N2) is converted into a form that plants (like coffee) can take up through their roots.

Trees also prevent soil erosion and the leaching of nutrients that can occur during tropical storms, and provide an essential habitat for countless species of animals and the prey that they depend upon. One of the most noted types of animals that these trees provide habitat for are birds.

Shade-coffee plantations have been found to provide habitat for upwards of 100 species of birds- consisting of both local birds and migrants- that spend the summer throughout North America and head south in the winter. Since the widespread advent of sun-grown coffee, many of these bird populations have been in serious decline. With the continued loss of primary-growth tropical forests for agriculture and development, shade coffee plantations may be the only hope for many species of birds, as well as other types of forest plants and animals.

In the early 1970s, coffee leaf rust, a fungal pathogen, first made its way from eastern locales to South America, and, more recently, to Central America. This caused widespread alarm among the coffee growing community. People feared that the more humid conditions in shadecoffee plantations would lead to the widespread loss of coffee crops as a result of this pathogen, and there was a shift from traditional coffee growing methods to a more modern monoculture-type system.

With the help of government aid programs, shade-coffee plantations throughout Latin America were changed to sun-coffee plantations. The type of coffee being grown was changed from the shade-tolerant Arabica variety to the Robusta variety, which produces coffee with a reportedly more bitter flavour, and lacks the refined flavours and aromas of coffee made from the Arabica bean.

The Robusta plantations lack all the benefits trees provide to shadegrown coffee, and therefore, require large inputs of fertilizers, herbicides, and insecticides. While per capita harvests may exceed those of shade coffee plantations, levels of biodiversity in sun-grown coffee plantations are almost inconceivably low in comparison, and there are a myriad of negative impacts on the surrounding environment.

The scientific evidence is clear that shade-grown coffee plantations support significantly higher levels of biodiversity than sun-grown coffee plantations.

It is also clear that shade-grown coffee plantations offer a sustainable way of life for coffee growers and the communities in which they live.

In a world where our actions and decisions have more and more of a planetary scope with every day that passes, it is important to consider the repercussions of our actions- and this includes the type of coffee that we drink. Let’s be real here, there’s nothing that’s going to stop us from drinking coffee, but by choosing to drink shadegrown coffee, we can send the message that we care about the sustainable and environmentally friendly production of the drink that means so much to us.

Issue 175.13 • Thursday, November 27, 2014

LIFE

Perfecting being perpetually poor Prepare for a weekend of sales GABRIELLE DICKERT Often, the holidays bring on additional spending whether you prepare a budget or not. When you have friends and family to purchase gifts for, it’s understandable that you want to get them nice gifts to show them how much you love and appreciate them.

As the upcoming weekend features Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales, it’s a great time to get your holiday shopping done – but there are risks associated with shopping when these sales are going on. If you’re planning on making these purchases anyway, it’s a good way to save some money, but it can also be an issue when it comes to impulse purchases. Some of the “sales” that companies feature are not as good as they seem. There are some ways to manage risks associated with purchases made during this weekend of deals.

Avoiding risks: Impulse purchases. Be honest with yourself. Do you have the money right now for some shopping?

If you’ve budgeted your Christmas money, it’s a good time to withdraw it from your savings and get the deals before they’re gone. However, if you are relying on end-of-the-year bonuses from work, or maybe you’re someone who uses Christmas money to buy other presents, buying presents this weekend might not be in your best interest. If you’re throwing these purchases on your Visa and have no idea of when you’ll able to pay it off, you may end up spending more on interest than you’re saving with the sales.

Avoiding risk also means shopping around. When you see a deal at a certain store, make sure it’s a good deal by checking to see what other stores are offering. Avoid impulse purchases at all costs.

Tranfering risks: Insurance. When you buy a big ticket item such, as a laptop or a tablet, the sales person will often ask you to purchase insurance (such as Apple Care) on this product. However, when you purchase an item on your Visa, the item is already

insured through your card. While it may not be the same insurance plan, this is an adequate way to transfer the risk associated with an issue with your new purchase, while still avoiding substantial upfront costs that may never be necessary. If you’re planning on making a big purchase like this, look into different insurance plans before you head to the store or hit the checkout button online. You can also transfer risk by choosing to ask whomever gets your gifts for some of the items you see and want for yourself. If you see something for a really good price, tell the person who is getting you a gift, and hopefully they can take advantage of that deal.

Mitigating Risks: Overspending.

Associated risks this weekend can include a lot of things. Overspending can be a main issue for everyone, including students. Often when we see a good deal, it seems like a hard thing to pass up. The thing to keep in mind is whether or not you would have made this purchase if it wasn’t a deal. If you’re buying a product just because it’s on sale and you’ve kind of wanted it, you’re not doing yourself any favours. Consider making a list

of Christmas gifts or personal splurges before you check out Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals. This will give you an outline of what you can allow yourself to buy, and what you can view as a frivolous expenditure.

Accepting Risks: You’re going to buy it anyways. In no way is this advisable, but the reality of the situation is that you may end up putting something on your credit card that you’re not going to pay off right away, regardless of my advice above. You might see a PS4 for a great deal, or maybe a Michael Kors purse at a price you just can’t ignore.

You might put it on your credit card and hope someone gives you money for Christmas, or that you can pick up some extra hours at work to pay it off. Just keep in mind that you do want to pay off that credit card. Try to cut down on entertainment or other expenses for a while, so that you can balance out the costs.

We all splurge sometimes, but it’s important to take the necessary steps to manage the risk associated with your spending. It’s just another way you can perfect being perpetually poor.

The truth behind fear Losing fear and finding freedom DIANA KURZEJA If fear didn’t hold you back from pursuing what truly inspired you, how different do you think your life would be?

At times, we can find ourselves being so afraid of something that we could never even imagine doing it, due to a fear of failure, embarrassment, or whatever it is that holds us back. That used to be me only a few months ago – wandering through life too reluctant to try new things because I was too scared. One day I woke up and decided that I didn’t want to live that way anymore. I wanted to experience life and all that came with it: the pain, the beauty, the memorable moments, everything.

I decided that fear wasn’t going to dictate my life anymore. So what did I do? I packed my bag, booked a flight to Vancouver, and went on a solo backpacking trip. I had always dreamed of travelling to British Columbia, but couldn’t find anyone who was able to come with me. I didn’t want to pass up an opportunity to travel just because I would have to go

alone, and from this I discovered the beauty of solo travel – something I was always too nervous to try for myself. I didn’t have much of a plan, but I moved from hostel to hostel as I explored BC, meeting people from all over the world with stories of their own to share.

Travelling on my own helped me realized that there were people out there just like me who were travelling alone in hopes of seeing the world and meeting the people in it, even if they weren’t entirely comfortable with it.

While I was on this trip, I made it my mission to do things that were really outside of my comfort zone, and face the things I had always been afraid of, like bears for instance. I have always been deathly afraid of bears, but soon enough, I found myself biking through the trails of Whistler, where I unknowingly got within petting distance of a bear and nearly died. Okay, I maybe, probably – definitely – did not almost die, but it sure felt like I was going to. Having a painful fear of heights from a traumatic roller coaster I experienced as a child, I knew bungee jumping was my one true calling. As it turns out, I wasn’t too good at it, and would recommend anyone with the same fear to not film their experience – just trust me. Embarrassment

NICOLAS BALTENNECK VIA CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

Sometimes it is crucial to take the jump – facing your fears is when you can start living freely. aside, the moments where I faced my fears were the most thrilling and amazing experiences that shaped my trip to be the most life altering one I could have asked for.

The most rewarding experiences are often the most difficult ones to act on. They challenge us in so many ways, but also shape us into the person we’re meant to become. The things we fear are almost always the things we

should do, so if you’re feeling like you need a change in your life or feel stuck – start doing things outside of your comfort zone.

Even the smallest things count, like going to a movie by yourself, or raising your hand in class for the first time in ages. The smallest steps can lead to a giant leap you never knew you had the courage to make. Try something that you’re afraid of doing today, you will not regret it – I promise you.

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On this day...

Date: November 27, 1966 ALEXANDRA GRANT On this day with SHAC Uruguay adopted a constitution. In the elections of Nov. 27, 1966, nearly 59 per cent of Uruguayans voted to amend the 1952 constitution, and to reestablish a presidential system of government, thus ending a 15-year experiment with the colegiado. The new constitution, which became operative on Feb. 15, 1967 and has remained in effect since then, created a strong one-person presidency, subject to legislative and judicial checks.

In free and fair elections, Uruguayans approved the new charter, and elected the Colorado Party to power again.

The 1967 constitution contained many of the provisions of the 1952 charter. However, it removed some of the General Assembly’s power to initiate legislation, and provided for automatic approval of bills under certain conditions if the legislature failed to act. If, on receiving a bill, the president had objections or comments to make, the bill had to be returned to the General Assembly within 10 days.

If 60 days passed without a decision by the General Assembly, the president’s objections had to be considered accepted. The 1967 document also established the Permanent Commission, composed of four senators and seven representatives, which exercised certain legislative functions while the General Assembly was in recess.

The charter could be amended by four different methods. First, 10 per cent of the citizens who were registered to vote could initiate an amendment if they presented a detailed proposal to the President of the General Assembly. Second, two-fifths of the full membership of the General Assembly could approve a proposal presented to the President of the General Assembly, and submitted to a plebiscite at the next. Third, senators, representatives, and the President of the Republic could present proposed amendments, which had to be approved by an absolute majority of the full membership of the General Assembly. And finally, amendments could be made by constitutional laws requiring the approval of two-thirds of the full membership of each chamber of the General Assembly in the same legislative period.

18

OPINION

PopSci: A bean misunderstanding Why beans may upset your stomach MARÍA CARLA ROSALES GERPE I had heard about beans being toxic and that their toxicity causes bloating. That came as a surprise because, having been raised in Cuba, beans were our bread and butter so to speak, and I had never thought of that. I learned one exception to the rule during my fourth-year metabolism course, where I was taught about fava beans.

I learned that a small percentage of people, mainly from the regions surrounding the Mediterranean, suffer from a genetic disorder that makes them unable to produce a protein called glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD). This enzyme is responsible for making sugars into energy that your body can later store. When the body is making energy, it sometimes makes

molecules that are very reactive and have the potential to damage cell membranes. Such molecules are called reactive oxygen species and the damage they cause is called oxidative stress. Yet, our bodies’ energy can also be used to make antioxidants, which I’m sure you have heard much about in the media. Antioxidants are good, because they can absorb the constant oxidative stress that is a by-product of our bodies’ energy production. Constant oxidative stress can lead to many diseases and, particularly, to cancer. Fava beans contain a great number of molecules that are considered oxidants. Without antioxidants being produced to absorb the damage from this coming stress, people suffering from G6PD deficiency will develop a marked anaemia, as their red blood cells will rupture from cell membrane damage.

I am lucky enough, as hopefully many of you are, to not have this disorder, and I have thoroughly enjoyed fava beans on multiple occasions. Unfortunately, there is currently no treatment for people who suffer from G6PD

deficiency, and so they must be careful of what they eat. Anything that contains a high level of oxidants will not do. We eat foods with oxidants all the time, such as chocolate, pizza, pastries, ice cream – basically everything that should be good for you. Oxidants are not bad, however. They help us during infections, and they raise inflammation when the immune system needs it. That is why our bodies try to maintain a balance of oxidants and antioxidants.

“...our bodies try to maintain a balance of oxidants and antioxidants.”

That being said, what about other beans? Are they toxic too? I am not aware of any beans other than fava beans that are toxic, but why do we get bloated, then?

Well, our bodies are amazing machines but sadly, we cannot digest everything. Have you tried

eating rocks lately? Our gastric acid and enzymes are just simply not tough enough on them. And if you’ve ever tried to chew a bean, you’re basically eating a small pebble. You have to cook them really well to break the fibers enough so that they are digestible. For that reason, you may also sometimes soak beans overnight prior to cooking so they can soften. Even then, you will still get bloating! We cannot digest all of a bean’s fibers, but bacteria can. As they eat, they grow. Unlike us, when bacteria digest food, their end product is not carbon dioxide, but methane, which is not the most pleasant of all gases. You can only imagine what a growing group of bacteria can generate over some hours.

Beans are amazing, however.

The amount of fiber they have can surely help you avoid those wonderful all-bran muffins, cereal, and other things that taste like cardboard boxes. To help you embrace the farts, I’ve got a super tasty “garbanzos” recipe all the way from Galicia, courtesy of my great-grandma, and perfect for winter.

Ingredients -3 cups garbanzos (chickpeas) -3 cups chicken broth -1 cup water -1 tbsp olive oil -Chop half a white or sweet onion -1 clove of minced garlic -2 small potatoes, cut up in quarters -A quarter of chorizo sausage -2 tsp of cumin Soak the chick peas overnight, or buy three cans and skip this step by just washing and draining them completely. Then, put a pot over medium heat and add the olive oil. Sauté the onion and garlic until the onions are golden.

Make sure not to burn the garlic.

Add the potatoes, and sauté them for about 10 minutes, then add the chicken broth, water, and chick peas. After about 10 minutes, add the chorizo sausages, and let the whole thing simmer for another 25 minutes, stirring every once in a while. Enjoy!

Jon Stewart’s not a journalist – he’s something far greater Looking at The Daily Show host’s stance on journalism SAMEER CHHABRA In 1999, Jon Stewart took over hosting The Daily Show from Craig Kilborn. Over the course of the next 15 years, Stewart’s presence on The Daily Show took the show into a spectacularly political format, highlighting the absurdities of American politics, while allowing the bewildered public an opportunity to watch as straightman Jon Stewart asked American news media and politicians the hard-hitting questions that are on all of our minds. Mocking print, radio, and broadcast journalism in a “fake news” format, The Daily Show is the rare kind of comedy show that is both uniquely funny and genuinely inquisitive.

“I’ve always run by the hierarchy of ‘If not funny, interesting.

If not interesting, hot. If not hot, bizarre. If not bizarre, break something,’” said Stewart in a

1995 Rolling Stone interview.

However, Jon Stewart has always been adamant about his position as a comedian instead of a journalist or political pundit.

Indeed, in interviews with news media and popular press, Stewart frequently restates his position as a satirist instead of a genuine journalistic personality.

“...rare kind of comedy show that is both uniquely funny and genuinely inquisitive.”

“People would like to place a standard on our show that doesn’t exist. We’re not set up for reporting; we don’t have an apparatus for that,” said Stewart in a 2008 interview with The Hartford Advocate.

“We’re discussing things that hopefully people might get something out of, but it’s wildly inconsistent. Just because we hit

on points that resonate, or people think are real complaints – that doesn’t make us journalists.”

In the same way that The Onion is not a legitimate news source, Jon Stewart is convinced that he is not a legitimate journalist. There is truth in his beliefs.

Journalism is meant to bring clarity and context to the events that happen in our world. Based on this simple creed, names like Mansbridge, Murrow, Cronkite, and Williams have spent the last number of years doing the simple job of delivering the news in a context that can be understood by the people.

Jon Stewart, in comparison, is no Walter Cronkite; he makes jokes at the behest of foolish politicians, he pokes fun at meaningless policy, and he makes a job out of shaming people whose sole job it is to run our countries. On a daily basis, his show brings to light the issues that plague America and our world; his humorous style of reporting manages to make the news interesting, while simultaneously crying out for order and decency.

In short, Jon Stewart is not a journalist – he’s an entertainer, and he seems convinced that

the only reason he’s still around is because people seem to agree with him a lot. With his movie coming out, Jon Stewart is convinced, now more than ever, that his work falls under entertainment and not education, and that we should not look to him as a source of enlightenment but of enjoyment.

That being said, I’m not quite so sure about Stewart’s position outside the media elite. Furthermore, I’m not quite so sure that the only reason Jon Stewart’s still around is because people agree with him a lot. There’s truth in the argument that following popular opinion is not always the appropriate choice, but there’s also truth that sustained popularity is not a statistical anomaly.

After 15 years on-air, and years of asking important moral and political questions, do we still have to pretend that political comedians like Stewart, and Colbert, and Wilmore, and Oliver are not valid sources of criticism?

Comedy is one of those rare mediums where it’s completely appropriate to say what’s on a person’s mind. In comedy, jokes are allowed to cross a line, and comedians are allowed to challenge our

preconceived notions of right and wrong. Journalism is supposed to do those things too; journalists are supposed to ask the questions that make people think, and they’re supposed to take a stand against good and bad. A journalist who blindly reports the news without putting things into context is of no use to the general public, while a journalist who blindly spews opinion without reporting the news is even more deadly.

Jon Stewart might not work for a news organization, his show might not reflect the traditional broadcast news format, and his medium might rely on comedy instead of news, but that certainly doesn’t mean that his work is any less meaningful. The fool is allowed a rare position in society; he is allowed to joke while simultaneously bringing fact to light. In today’s age, doing the news well means having to play the fool.

Mr. Stewart, you may think yourself the fool, and you may think yourself a jester, but let me be the first to say that you are the closest thing to an honest newsman that America has seen in a very long time.

Issue 175.13 • Thursday, November 27, 2014

Changing the Subject Graffiti and street art DANIELLE SUBJECT Graffiti and street art are forms of art that are surrounded by controversy, especially in urban areas. Some may argue that graffiti is destructive, while street art is acceptable. Others may argue that both are acceptable and a valuable addition to communities. One can also say that these forms of art are not only valuable to a community, but also add to the appeal of a city. Many cities hire street artists to paint regulated murals in the city to add to the city’s culture and increase visual appeal.

“Street art, primarily, is focused on beautification, and art at its core.”

“I think it’s a great thing. I think graffiti or street art adds to the city. It makes people stop and look for a second and forget their troubles for at least one moment, but it also makes the city more beautiful,” said Jason Inglis, an artist from Guelph who has also contributed to street art. Jason is involved with a project called Electric Street Art, which as a public initiative in Guelph that will be transforming hydro boxes into pieces of art.

However, should art be regulated? Are graffiti and street art not only art, but forms of speech?

By regulating these forms of art, and deciding what can be shown and what can be covered up, are we violating free speech?

Firstly, let’s distinguish between the two forms of art. Graffiti, also known as “tagging,” tends to be for the artist, and is often a way for artists to communicate with each other using distinct “tags.”

It is often viewed as vandalism by the public, and historically has a bad reputation. Graffiti, however, is a very unique movement, and can be quite liberating for the artist behind the spray can.

Street art is often perceived more positively than graffiti. The artists behind street art are less interested in “tagging,” and more

interested in creating images that are appealing to the eye and portray a strong message – often a political one. Although it tends to be more socially accepted, street art is still considered against the law unless regulated by the city.

I had a chance to speak with a Guelph muralist, Blake Lipnicki, to gain some more insight on the topic.

“They do adopt different values,” says Blake on the two forms of art. “Street art, primarily, is focused on beautification, and art at its core. Whereas graffiti is born of typography, born of text, and the text is merely just a signifier for a pseudonym for the artist to live under.”

Blake went onto say that “There’s a lot more ego in graffiti, and often times you get a divide between really talented street artists who are choosing to apply their medium out in the public, and they are sharing the same space with this other community who are more focused on themselves or their crew or reputations. They conflict with one another.”

However, Blake agrees that both forms of art are equally relevant.

“That being said, there are so many parallels at the same time.

Graffiti in its core is responsible for why street art is what it is today. But, graffiti needs street art to elevate it beyond just the letters,” explains Blake.

Let’s look at the notorious street artist Banksy and his case.

He was said to be arrested, and that authorities were deciding on how to convict him – if this were true – should he be convicted? Is he committing a crime? Banksy is a political street artist who used his talent to produce breathtaking and controversial images of relevant societal issues. He used an art-form to make an impact on society and to voice opinions that might not otherwise be heard.

We can also look at the UK’s graffiti and street art scene in the 1960s – a time and place that saw many forms of social and cultural revolutions. Graffiti and street art were one of the main forms of expression during this era, because it is a form of expression that ensures that a message will be seen, especially if the person behind the spray can does not feel that they have a voice.

“Whether people realize it or not, its influence is already there.

Even in the most miniscule onehorse towns, there’s always that element of unsanctioned human

OPINION

19

CHRIS DEVERS VIA CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Street art – a punishable crime, or a mode of speech? Here, the purpose of meaningful street art is investigated. influence. It’s funny to me that we’re trying so hard to suppress that, when we’re trying to suppress an unknown variable – street art output.”

“It can be the worst, most offensive thing you’ve ever seen in the world, or it can be one of the most riveting and jaw-dropping things that makes you reevaluate your whole stance on other issues,” said Blake when asked how street art and graffiti can benefit a community.

Sure, there’s a difference between writing something awful and offensive on a wall with the full intention to offend the majority of viewers, but there is something to be said about suppressing forms of art. There are more than enough examples of graffiti and street art that portray strong and relevant messages, or are simply just beautiful to look at. For many urban communities, it is part of the community’s culture. When given empowerment, like any form of art, it can become something valuable.

The views represented in the opinion section do not necessarily reflect the views of The Ontarion nor its staff.

Have a question, comment or complaint?

Send us a letter to the editor at ontarion@uoguelph.ca.

Deadline is Monday at 4 p.m., 300 word max.

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OPINION

The Truth Inquiry A dualistic perspective on spirituality TOM OBERLE “Spiritual experience” can be a broad term, and a difficult one to define. I think, in a very general sense, we can begin by defining it as an experience that is unlike our normal day-to-day experience of the world. This may include a range of experiences that we don’t normally consider to be spiritual ones, such as being intoxicated, which is quite unlike a sober, ‘normal’ experience.

What usually separates spiritual experiences from merely intoxicating experiences is a sense of transcendence, i.e. an experience that is profound or awe-inspiring so as to consist of something that is larger than, or beyond, the subject of the experience.

“there is no thinking involved – you just do it...”

One type of experience that is sometimes considered spiritual and that is well documented is “flow.” Flow, a term coined by the Hungarian psychologist, Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, is an

experience common in a variety of activities and contexts from sports, to music, to religion. It is mostly the result of having complete focus and attention on a particular activity. These experiences are often characterized by emotions of joy and bliss, but more so of a loss of the sense of self and of time. It seems there is no thinking involved – you just do it, or you just experience it.

These experiences can often be ecstatic and stress-relieving.

Prior to Csikszentmihalyi’s research, flow experiences have been characterized by Eastern religious traditions, such as Buddhism and Hinduism. We can think of the self as an immaterial aspect of ourselves, which results in the sense that we are individual, thinking, acting persons with a sense of long-term identity. The sensation of a loss of self that is characteristic of flow can also be achieved via various forms of meditation, and this experience is used as evidence by the Buddhist tradition that the self is, in fact, not real, but an illusion. Flow is often characterized as a religious or spiritual experience as well.

Christians, for instance, may have similar experiences, but fail to draw similar conclusions about the nature of the self.

However, even though many who are religious may interpret these particular types of flow experiences within the context of their religion, they are not dependent on religion itself, as already stated. In Waking Up, author Sam Harris argues that flow experiences affirm the Buddhist claim

that the self is an illusion. Harris illustrates this within the practice of mindfulness mediation and from the perspective of neuroscience. He argues that, when we really examine our inner mind, we find that it is possible for our sense of self to dissolve, demonstrating the illusory nature of the self. Furthermore, when we look at the brain, we see no locus of the self governing over the functions of the brain. The brain operates via many simultaneous and interconnected processes, not under the direction of an immaterial soul or mind.

“...the Buddhist tradition that the self is, in fact, not real, but an illusion...”

Both of these statements – that one can experience a dissolution of a sense of self and that the brain operates via complex interconnected processes – are true, but I believe the conclusion – the self is an illusion – to be unwarranted. Harris is mistaken in assuming that if some immaterial aspect of us did exist, i.e. the mind, the self, or the soul, that we would be able to locate it in the brain and see it operating as the central focal point of

the brain’s processes. This is not the case; therefore, he argues that substance dualism is false and materialism is true. However, the existence of an immaterial substance is, well, immaterial.

By definition, it could not be empirically observable or quantified. Therefore, we would not expect to see an immaterial self or soul operating in the brain like Harris expects we would.

Furthermore, it is not something that can be subjected to the scientific method, since the scientific method is based upon empirical observation, measurement, and experimentation. Rather, it is a job for philosophy.

Harris also notes that religious and non-religious people are capable of having profound, spiritual experiences and therefore concludes that spiritual experience cannot be taken to affirm the validity of any one god or religion, but that a common underlying principle must be the cause of this vast spectrum of experiences instead, namely the human brain. Again, I agree with his statements, but not his conclusion. This assumption, that if god did exist and only one religion were true, that we should expect only proponents of that religion to have mystifying and profound spiritual experiences of god, may be a false one.

We know that people of all religions, and even secular people, have mystifying and profound experiences of a divine or spiritual nature. Perhaps there are right and wrong answers when it comes to spiritual experience.

Assuming god does exist, it is possible to be mistaken when claiming to experience god, and it is possible someone may have a true experience of god and be mistaken in attributing that experience to natural causes. Our ability as human beings to have non-religious experiences that are similar to religious experiences does not entirely rule out the possibility that god is the cause of some of these experiences. Consider the following: Our brains are the sorts of things that are capable of producing or facilitating these experiences. So, if god did exist, would it be surprising that these experiences are still possible without the involvement of god, like when taking LSD or DMT for instance? That would be like saying a piano can only make music if Chopin is the player.

The piano is designed to create music and the music may change or differ depending on the skill of the player, but the possibility of music, is not dependent on any one musician. Any person may create music with the instrument.

Similarly, the possibility of the brain producing or facilitating spiritual experience is not dependent on any one particular cause, be it god or psychedelics, and the analogy suggests it is possible to distinguish between causes of spiritual experience, just as one can distinguish between a skilled pianist and a novice. If so, how could we know a particular experience is, in fact, an experience of god and not an effect of some natural phenomenon?

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TheOntarion.com

Issue 175.13 • Thursday, November 27, 2014

EDITORIAL

Parts and sums; or, why I hate being tall

COURTESY STUART CLARKE

How tall is she? Sunderland fans aren’t likely to find out, as the author is “terrible at all sports.”

ALYSSA OTTEMA “I’m not afraid of heights, so this is going to work,” says the gem of a man standing in front of me.

At six feet tall, I am well aware that I stand at an above average height not only for females in North America, but males, as well. I can’t really see my height in the mirror (because most mirrors are hung low enough that they cut my head off), but I can see it in the faces, postures, and comments of the people I interact with. Needless to say, I’m not in dire need of a reminder of my towering stature.

I was quite annoyed at the whole situation, and I spent a solid 20 minutes lecturing this man, who stood at least two inches taller than me, on proper methods for approaching women. He seemed very appreciative, and I like to think that I changed a life that day.

It wasn’t until recently that I considered the issues presented by this situation. I was so distracted by the annoyed feeling (why does my height factor into whether or not you approach me, or whether or not “this is going to work”?) and my overall disinterest (besides, I have a boyfriend, and I have no desire to “work” with you) that I missed the part where this guy, first of all, felt like he personally had the authority to determine whether or not this would “work,” but secondly, and most importantly, felt the need put me down and reduce me to a single (and potentially sore-spot) part in order to approach me.

I used to think that I had never been affected by any particular “ism.”

I feel truly lucky to have felt this way, because it means that I live in a society,

built on the backs of those who were not as fortunate as I, that does not hold me back because I was born a certain way. Lately, though I’ve remained grateful for my privileged experiences, I’ve come to think that maybe a broad spectrum of “isms” affect us all in lesstangible ways.

Following questions about my abilities in certain sports (I am terrible at all sports) and if I’m enjoying the weather “up there” (my head is less than a foot above yours, so the weather is about the same), the question I am most commonly asked is: “You’re already so tall.

Why do you even need to wear heels?”

At first, this is funny (haha, there must have been a shelf that I couldn’t reach), but the more I think about it, the more it strikes me as an implicit “ism.” Not only is it none of your business whether or not I choose to wear heels (maybe I freaking like the way my calves look when I wear them, okay?), this statement only serves to emphasize the fact that I don’t fit into the mould that you think I should fit into.

I used to hate my height, and sometimes, I still do. Up until very recently, I specifically did not wear heels. I still have a slouch that I cannot get rid of, and when I do stand up straight, my boyfriend asks me if I’ve grown.

Buying pants is an absolute nightmare that I avoid at all costs, and any shirt that isn’t specifically made to hit a normal person’s thigh is probably too short. But the thing that bugs me most about my height is that it seems to be the tool by which those who think they have the right define me as what I am not - that is, their image of what I should be.

I don’t pretend that this struggle is

unique to me. I’m willing to bet that most people, regardless of gender, know what it’s like to have the whole of themselves be defined by a single part – potentially the part that they’d change if they could. The effects of this extend far beyond the inability to find pants or the physical effects of forgetting how it feels to stand up tall. I think that everyone feels “too” something sometimes: too small or too big, too loud or too quiet, too old or too young, too black or too white. Not “fitting the mould” extends past the self and into the structuring of a society that takes for itself the authority to define us by what we are not.

I think we should, collectively, come to define ourselves by the whole of what we are. While we should own the things that place us outside of the mould (because it is precisely these things which make us individual at all), we should not allow these single things to define our whole. We are more than just tall or small, loud or quiet, old or young, black or white. We are complex, distinctive beings who can’t be defined by a single word, or even a single sentence.

So, as I told the gem of a man on that fateful night, I’m more than just that tall girl who you might just “work” with. You have no right to reduce me to a part of myself with which I may or may not identify, just as I have no right to do the same to you. You, and I, and every other person in this world who equally deserves to be considered beyond a spectrum of “isms,” are more than the sum of our parts.

Breaking News

JIAN GHOMESHI ARRESTED Following weeks of allegation and speculation, Jian Ghomeshi was arrested Wednesday, Nov. 25, in Toronto. He faces charges of four counts of sexual assault, and one count of “overcome resistance – choking.”

Ghomeshi has denied all allegations against him, and appeared in court early Wednesday afternoon.

According to Toronto Police Chief Bill Blair, a “number of people have come forward” against Ghomeshi. Blair stated that “all updates that will subsequently come with respect to that investigation will come from our sex crimes unit.”

“We encourage victims of any sexual assault to come forward, and I want to offer them my assurance they will be treated with dignity and with respect,” said Blair. “It’s also important to recognize that it’s their choice, and we respect their choice.”

News of Ghomeshi’s arrest comes shortly after it was announced that Ghomeshi would be withdrawing his $55-million lawsuit against his former employer, the CBC. Ghomeshi must still pay $18,000 in legal fees incurred by the CBC. “The suit is being withdrawn with costs in favour of CBC,” said Chuck Thompson, a CBC spokesman.

“He’s getting nothing.”

The Jian Ghomeshi story came to light on Oct. 27, after Ghomeshi posted a lengthy post to the popular social networking website Facebook, explaining his recent firing from the CBC. Ghomeshi’s initial defence was that an ex-girlfriend had launched a “campaign of harassment, vengeance, and demonization” against him.

Since then, several women have come out against Ghomeshi, and on Nov. 1, three women had filed complaints with police.

- Compiled by Sameer Chhabra

TheON

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The Ontarion Inc. University Centre Room 264 University of Guelph N1G 2W1 ontarion@uoguelph.ca Phone 519-824-4120 General: x 58265 Editorial: x 58250 Advertising: x 53534 Accounts: x 53534 Editorial Staff Editor-in-Chief

Emily Jones Associate Editor

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Melissa Chong Ah Yan

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Contributors

Connor Arsenault

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Gerpe

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Connor Hewson

Diana Kurzeja

Matt Lawson

Caden McCann

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Julia Noel

Tom Oberle

Joanne Pearce

Ryan Priddle

Brook Ragan

Karyn Stepien

Ashley Street

Will Wellington The Ontarion is a non-profit organization governed by a Board of Directors. Since the Ontarion undertakes the publishing of student work, the opinions expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect those of the Ontarion Board of Directors. The Ontarion reserves the right to edit of refuse all material deemed sexist, racist, homophobic, or otherwise unfit for publication as determined by the Editorin-Chief. Material of any form appearing in this newspaper is copyrighted 2014 and cannot be reprinted without the approval of the Editor-in-Chief. The Ontarion retains the right of first publication on all material. In the event that an advertiser is not satisfied with an advertisement in the newspaper, they must notify the Ontarion within four working days of publication. The Ontarion will not be held responsible for advertising mistakes beyond the cost of advertisement.

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FUN PAGE

ACROSS 1- Card game also called sevens 7- DDE’s predecessor 10- P.M. times 14- English Channel swimmer Gertrude 15- Eureka!

16- Internet writing system that popularized “pwn3d” and “n00b” 17- No kidding!

18- Bandleader Brown 19- ___ boy!

20- Capital of Utah 23- Unordered 26- That girl 27- King with a golden touch 28- To ___ (perfectly) 29- Lubricate 30- Ocean 31- Cheese 33- Not ‘neath 34- Rocker’s show 37- One circuit 38- Surgery sites, briefly 39- Fall back 40- Memorable time 41- Naval rank, briefly 42- Got together 43- Endless 45- Pot top

46- Small batteries 47- ___ kleine Nachtmusik 48- Series of metal rings 51- Court fig.

52- ___ the hole 53- Cornucopia 56- “___ quam videri” (North Carolina’s motto) 57- Country bordered by Canada and Mexico 58- Secret stuff 62- Agitate 63- Hi-___ 64- Satan 65- Soviet news service 66- Fast flier 67- Boil DOWN 1- Gave grub 2- Foofaraw 3- Can be used to catch fish or surf!

4- Braided 5- Put to rest 6- 1994 Jodie Foster film 7- Hebrew liturgical prayer 8- Clip wool 9- Assignment

ANSWERS FROM 175.12

10- Actress Silverstone 11- Stinking 12- Seed covering 13- Remains 21- Need for liquid 22- Come out 23- Twinned crystal 24- Patriot Allen 25- Oozes 29- Paddled 30- Chairs 32- Gaming tile 33- Soap ingredient 34- Bottled spirit 35- Teheran native 36- Ancient physician 44- Adapt for new use 45- Passenger ships 46- Finally 48- Thorax 49- Plantain lily 50- Upbeat, in music 51- Church areas 52- Up ___ (trapped) 54- Animal pelts 55- Apprehends 59- Small island 60- Slangy denial 61- Malt beverage

SUBMIT COMPLETED CROSSWORD TO THE ONTARION OFFICE, UC 264, NO LATER THAN MONDAY NOV. 24TH AT 4PM FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN TWO FREE BOB’S DOGS! Crossword Winner from 175.12 is…Andrea Dobrescu!

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Annual Volunteer Appreciation holiday party is almost here!

As a thank you to all of our valued volunteers we are hosting a celebratory party to conclude the fall semester.

The party will be held downtown at The Albion Hotel.

Food and refreshments will be provided.

Cheers to you all for making this semester such a memorable one!

Join us Dec. 4, at 8:30 p.m.

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UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH ASSISTANTSHIPS SUMMER 2015 Exciting opportunities exist for students interested in summer work under two unique summer research programs.

The NSERC Undergraduate Summer Research Awards (USRA) and Undergraduate Research Assistantships (URA) are available for the summer of 2015. The positions are 16 weeks in length.

USRA and URA Position Descriptions are posted on the respective websites.

USRA (NSERC)

URA

STUDENT ELIGIBILITY • Must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada

STUDENT ELIGIBILITY • Must be a Canadian Citizen or permanent resident of Canada residing in Ontario

• Must be registered full-time at the time of application in a baccalaureate program in natural science or engineering. Normally students participating in this program are students at the University of Guelph but students from other institutions who meet the academic criteria are also eligible

• Must be a full-time or part-time student at the time of application in any baccalaureate program at the University of Guelph

• Must have a cumulative average of at least a ‘B-’ standing (≥70%) during the course of their undergraduate study • There are no

• Must have a cumulative average of at least a ‘B-’ standing (≥70%) during the course of their undergraduate study (departments may have additional academic criteria) as determined by the University of Guelph’s • Must have assessment through the submission of a Financial Need Assessment Form • Must return to study in a baccalaureate program in Fall 2015

•

• Must not have completed the last semester of their baccalaureate program

• Must not have started a graduate program at the time of the award

• Must be engaged in full-time research during the tenure of the award. However, a student may register as a part-time student at the University during the award period providing they are not registered for course(s) totalling more than 1.0 credits

• Must be engaged in full-time research during the tenure of the award

STUDENT APPLICATION

STUDENT APPLICATION

1. Forward a complete application to the respective department/unit. Complete applications consist of:

1. Submit a URA Financial Need Assessment Form to Student Financial Services for assessment, beginning Dec. 8, 2014 and no later than Feb. 2, 2015

a) NSERC’s Form 202 - Part 1 (now an online application)- refer to the NSERC website: http://www.nserc-crsng.gc.ca/OnlineServices-ServicesEnLigne/Forms-Formulaires_eng. asp

. Once an approval email is received students should forward a complete application to the respective hiring department/unit. Complete applications consist of:

b) The University’s Form 2 documents page)

a) The University’s Form 2 documents page)

supervisor once the position has been offered)

transcript to their

Financial Services)

SELECTION PROCEDURE

The Department/unit makes decisions on the applicants and selects students for either a USRA or URA, beginning February 17, 2015. A student may only hold one award at any one time.

URA & USRA APPLICATIONS MUST BE SUMBITTED TO THE DEPARTMENTS NO LATER THAN FEBRUARY 2, 2015