The Ontarion - Issue #177.1

Thursday, May 14th, 2015

Issue No. 177.1

100 Years

In Flanders Fields SEE CENTRE

DANA BELLAMY/THE ONTARION

What is Wearable Technology?

In the human species’ haste to uncover life-changing, game-shifting, worldaffecting advancement, we often fail to ask if a particular revolution is necessary.

Far be it from me to inject politics, ethics, or morality into a particular endeavour, but the advent of fitness trackers and smartwatches like the Pebble, Moto 360, and Apple Watch have all delivered unprecedented advancements in technology, while simultaneously failing to answer the basic question of necessity.

That is to say, now that we are capable of fulfilling...

ERIC LEAMEN

Page 8

NDP takes victory in Alberta

Mental Health & Wellness: Self-confidence

The province of Alberta was in the national spotlight last week - many Canadian citizens were eagerly glued to their televisions to see the results of the 2015 vote.

It’s safe to say, that no one could have predicted the final results.

Alberta made history. By voting in the NDP, citizens now have the opportunity to express the urgent desire for change, and ultimately, an entirely new...

When describing someone who is successful, people are quick to agree that this person is confident and believes in what he or she is doing. They may say he or she is decisive, positive, and optimistic towards an outcome.

Similarly, identifying someone who lacks self-confidence is relatively easy.

T hey ca n be descr ibed as pessimistic, reluctant, and unwilling...

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Issue 177.1 | May 14th, 2015

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NEWS

Under the Historic election brings change to Alberta Taking a look Radar OVC ranked fourth among vetrinary colleges worldwide

at NDP’s victory

EMILIO GHLOUM L ong renow ned for bei ng a world leader in animal medicine, Guelph’s ow n Onta r io Veterinary College (OVC) has another reason to be notable: it was recently announced as ranking fourth worldwide in veterinary science.

Including almost 900 post seconda r y i nst it ut ions throughout the globe, Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) ranked schools in their respective categories based on research and reputation. Guelph (OVC) was out ra n ked on ly by t he Universit y of California (Davis), Cornell University in New York, and the University of London’s Royal Veterinar y College, in that order. Focusing nationally, Guelph’s veterinary curriculum has made it the highest ranked Canadian university on the list, followed by the University of British Columbia for its Geography program.

N e e d l e s s t o s a y, t h o s e involved w it h t he OVC have nothing but praise for their academic home. In an online press release on the college’s website, Dean Elizabeth Stone shared her pleasure with the result, acknowledging how QS’s ranking contributes to the excellent reputation of the facility, and reinforces t he success of its learner-focused approach.

“The ranking pays tribute to the high quality of our faculty, staff and students, and the relevance of the work they do to improve the health of animals, people and the environment,” said Stone in t he release on April 30th.

Those current ly attending the College would appear to agree. Second-year OVC student Emily Zak rajsek stated her appreciation for attending a school so highly recognized, a nd noted t hat t he ra n k i ng “gives [OVC] both the privilege and responsibility to...continue to improve and make changes that are influential both in the veterinary education system, but a lso t he profession as a whole.”

-Compiled by Carleigh Cathcart

The province of Alberta was in the national spotlight last week - many Canadian citizens were eagerly glued to their televisions to see the results of the 2015 vote.

It’s safe to say, that no one could have predicted the final results.

Alberta made history. By voting in the NDP, citizens now have the opportunity to express the urgent desire for change, and ultimately, an entirely new political landscape.

Previously, the Conservative party held the record for the longest-serving provincial government, holding power for nearly 43 years in Alberta.

Outgoing PC leader Jim Prentice underwent heavy public criticism for his proposed policy changes regarding Alberta’s economic infrastructure, ultimately leading to the sharp decrease of voters in his favour. That being said, the sudden shift in political thinking after 43 years is a clear indication that a change had to be made among the citizens of Alberta.

Not only did the NDP claim its

largest victory ever in Alberta, the rising party also managed to win a majority government.

With about 40 per cent of the popular vote, there is no doubt that Alberta has shed itself from its conservative ties in favour of the promising NDP political platform.

Rachel Notley, the leader of the NDP and Alberta’s new premier, urges Albertans to embrace the big changes that are coming. In a news release posted on Alberta’s NDP website, Notley emphasized the importance of change and the responsibilities that comes alongside new leadership.

“Albertans have voted for change. One of the changes they voted for is a new kind of respect and a new relationship with their government,” said Notley.

The newly elected Premier, however, was quick to dismiss the idea that creating change and progression would be easy.

After being known as Canada’s most conservative province, it has become apparent that Albertans have placed their trust in the NDPs. “Albertans across this province have told me they are tired of old, entitled approaches that leave them out of conversations about their livelihoods, about their services, about their families,” said Notley. “Whether you are a business leader, a union leader, a

DAVE COURNOYER VIA CC BY-SA 2.0/MODIFIED

Rachel Notley was elected as the first NDP Premier of Alberta having won a majority vote over the Progressive Conservatives. municipal leader, someone who leads in civil society, or a just plain Albertan – the Legislature belongs to you; the government belongs to you, and you will be treated with respect.”

Notley’s family-oriented outlook and strong political tact speaks volumes about Alberta’s previous leadership.

The 2015 provincial elections also saw a solid voter turnout

with 58.1 per cent the highest it has been since 60 per cent in 1993. Under the guidance of Rachel Notley and the NDP, Alberta’s political landscape has forever changed – demonstrating a crucial and much needed change from the economic instability created by previous governments.

Ontario land use review Looking at proposed environmental changes KIMBERLY FARIAS We live in one of the fastest grow ing regions of Canada, which is also home to the majority of its prime agricultural land.

This dichotomy often leads to land use conf lict within and concerning our communities.

However, people now have the chance to influence how the land in our area is used presently and into the future. The four southern Ontario Provincial Plans (Greenbelt Plan, Niagara Escarpment Plan, Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe, and the Oak Ridges Moraine

Conservation Plan) are up for review, with public comments being accepted until May 28, 2015. The four plans cover a large part of southern Ontario and the framework outlined by them must be integrated into municipal development and planning.

The Greenbelt limits urbanization to protect the agricultural la nd base, a nd prov ides env ironmental and cultural protection to the land it covers.

The Niagara Escarpment Plan aims to maintain the entire length of the escarpment as a continuous environment while ensuring that the development in its v icinit y is compatible with that environment. The Oak Ridges Moraine Conservation Pla n a i ms to protect t he ecological and hydrological integrit y of the areas due to its importance as a source of drink ing water. The Grow th Plan for the Greater Golden

Horseshoe sets density targets and encourages intensification rather than expansion of urban areas, working towards compact a nd v ibr a nt c om mu n it ie s.

Together, these plans work to manage g row t h in Ontario, while preserving agricultural a nd ecolog ica l ly i mpor ta nt land. The plans support the development of complete and compact communities that do not furt her degrade natural her it age, w h i le cont i nu i ng economic growth in urban and agricultural areas.

The agricultural land and unique natural features contribute to making Southern Ontario an amazing place to live. Travelling a short distance from home and being able to visit farmers markets and enjoy locally grown food, or be immersed in natural areas or diverse urban centers – this is what sets Ontario apart.

P r e s e r v i n g t he s e l a nd s i s

essential to preserving our natural and cultural heritage.

Now is the time to have your voice heard – Is there an area being left out? Do you have an idea about improving the policy? The Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing and the Ministry of Natural Resources a nd For e s t r y a r e w or k i n g together in this review process.

This is the first round of public consultation, which will contribute to the developing plan amendments. If you have any concerns or ideas on how to improve these plans, make sure to comment. There are a number of ways to be heard: there is a feedback questionnaire on the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing Website or comments can be mailed to their Toronto office, one can comment directly through the Environmental Registry #012-3256, or via email.

ARTS

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The Weekly Scene: The Imitation Game 3.5 Edifyingtales-of-Britishsuccess out of 4 SAMEER CHHABRA Collaborations bet ween talented artists never go unnoticed.

W hen strong actors, moving d i rec tor s, a nd sm a r t w r iters come together to produce something wonderful, audiences never fail to recognize the magic they’re witnessing. However, modern cinema has come to face a dilemma in the everraging battle between talents. In its simplest form, modern Hollywood has come to ask: how can we guarantee that a work of art will be great?

In an episode of Brooklyn NineNine, three characters argue over the Jean-Luc Godard-directed Breathless. A character suggests that the film succeeds because of Francois Truffaut’s writing, while two others argue that Godard’s involvement as director leads the film to success. This comparison – the suggestion that one person’s involvement can contribute to a work of art’s success – is a firmly rooted notion. To us, any one person can make a difference, and it is therefore reasonable to assume that one person’s involvement can be the difference between triumph and disaster. The truth is far removed from this assumption.

Far from offering any meaningful conclusions to the argument,

The Imitation Game, by director Morten Tyldum, starring Benedict Cumberbatch in the lead role, and written by Graham Moore, is an actor’s film. Certainly, the efforts of Tyldum and Moore are necessary in producing a strong final product, but the film lives and dies by its cast’s acting. When Cumberbatch speaks, Tyldum’s camera intently focuses on his body, capturing his face and ensuring that the audience pays complete attention to his words. In Tyldum’s film, circumstance is less important than delivery, and situation is far less important than character.

Thanks largely in part to its core cast of actors – Cumberbatch, Keira Knightley, Matthew Goode, Rory Kinnear, and a brief appearance by Charles Dance and Mark Strong – The Imitation Game is a fascinating look at neuroses-driven genius. Cumberbatch plays Alan Turing, the British mathematician whose work on the Enigma Code would lead the Allied forces to victory, and the human species one step closer to creating computer technology and artificial intelligence. The film looks at hints from Turing’s life, suggesting that his love for puzzles stems from a childhood attraction to a schoolmate.

Through Moore’s script, the audience is afforded insight into Turing’s talented, terrifying mind.

Otherwise, we’re left to decipher the film through Cumberbatch’s performance. So gratifying is the actor’s work in this film that his performance only serves to further cement his place in the hall

of cinematic legend. When Turing grins, when he hisses, when he pushes his associates away, Cumberbatch makes the audience feel his emotion. The same is often true for the rest of the film’s cast.

Tyldum’s direction mostly consists of simple framing; long-shots and close-ups interact in a simple

...an absolutely delightful film that serves as a fascinating look at a spellbinding man...

union, and there is very limited camerawork of note. He is a director who recognizes when his shots need f lair and when his scenes need restraint. However, without its actors, The Imitation Game would be a rather dull affair, and it’s only thanks to Cumberbatch and his cohorts that there is anything of note to witness.

In other works of art, the collaboration debate asks who we should truly think of when we think of great works of art. In film, the debate forces us to challenge the notion of cinema, asking ourselves why great movies are great movies instead of great plays or radio dramas.

Ultimately, it is fairly obvious that The Imitation Game is an actor’s film. It’s also reasonable to suggest that this film would have been successful if any number of restrained directors were at the helm. The same can be said for the film’s editor and cinematographer – William Goldenberg and Oscar Faura – whose work is simple and satisfying. As for Moore, his script could have been brought to life in any number of manners, and still retained its grounded characters and its human dialogue. Interestingly enough, his writing may actually have been better suited to a live setting, where audiences would have been able to internalize his words without being distracted by production value.

The Imitation Game is, for all intents and purposes, an absolutely delightful film that serves as a fascinating look at a spellbinding man. Turing’s work, his contributions to society, and his efforts to prevent the continuation of the Second World War were all

COURTESY eventually classified shortly after his death, as a result of an investigation into his romantic life.

Turing was eventually pardoned by Queen Elizabeth in 2013, but it is truly thanks to Cumberbatch that the world may yet remember the portrait of the enigmatic man who broke Enigma.

Follow us at @theontarion

MIDO MELEBARI

The Canadian National Dance Championships made a stop in Guelph this past weekend.

With three full days of dancing to be had, spectators and competitors filled the River Run Centre. Demonstrating a variety of different styles, with everything from lyrical, ballet, and hip-hop, the event proved to be an exciting affair. This particular competition was thrilling and unique because each dance routine had the opportunity to qualify the participant to represent Canada worldwide – the event is the only competition that may qualify dancers to compete nationally for Canada.

ARTS

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Issue 177.1 | May 14th, 2015

Film Review: Unfriended Social media slasher film is mildly freaky DANIELLE SUBJECT Unfriended, the newest slasher film to hit the box office, combines social media and a group of hormonal teenagers to add a horror-spin to the world of cyber-bullying. As most horror films accomplish, Unfriended works to prov ide a lesson of morality – this particular lesson being the repercussions of bullying, popularity, vanity, using Facebook, and genuinely being a complete jerk in high school.

I’m not about to say the film wasn’t scar y, because it was.

It was f rea k y, and it was in the back of my mind when I was catching up with an old friend on Skype the next day. I kept imagining our conversation being interrupted by an

anonymous contact and then bei ng forced to pa r t icipate in a game that would decide whether I will live to see tomorrow or not; Or just seeing the bedroom door behind my friend creak open (which would be equally traumatizing).

...conjuring imagery of a fear of the unknown...

If a horror film doesn’t warp your reality just a little bit, then it’s not a good one. If you watch The Blair Witch Project and have it in the back of your mind the next time you go camping, then Myrick and Sanchez have done

their jobs. Unfriended haunted me slight ly, t hough it could have been done a lot better than it was.

In Unf riended, a g roup of high school friends are on a Skype-chat one night, when an anonymous contact, Billie227, adds itself to their conversation. The group can’t get rid of Billie227, so they continue their chat aware that someone else is listening. Eventually, the main character receives private Facebook messages from the account of a deceased classmate, Laura Barns. The person claims to be Laura Barns, and ever yone begins to question their ow n sanit y. The group is forced to play a game, and one by one are murdered on camera, though the k iller is never shown. The point behind t he black mai l is t hat Laura Barns was pushed to commit suicide when an embarrassing video was released of her and spread throughout the student body. One by one, the Laura

Barns’ cyber-ghost reveals each person’s contribution to the bullying that led to her suicide.

Nobody survives.

Overall, the film was similar to The Blair Witch Project, as the entire thing was done on a Sk y pe-camera. Most of t he t i me, t he aud ience has absolutely no idea what is happening; conjuring imagery of a fear of the unknown (which is always a plus).

Also, the fact that the entire film was done on a computer screen is awesome and ver y innovative. Anything the audience saw was on a computer screen. One of the only places I’ve seen this technique done successfully was on Modern Family’s Season 6 episode titled “Connection Lost,” when the entire 30-minutes was shown on a laptop screen via Facetime chats.

W hat bot hered me about Unfriended was that I expected a lot more. I forgave the cheesy blender scene – though I wish

the directors would have util i z e d t he Sk y pe plot more effectively. There is so much potential for social media horror that I felt like Unfriended barely scratched the surface. Most of the scare tactics were centered around the volume in the theatre. Relying on loud crashing sounds to scare the audience is not the most creative of techniques, and ultimately takes away from the potential of the film. A good movie can scare the pants off of someone, even if it’s being viewed on a tiny screen plugged into a cheap speaker, without the perks of surround-sound.

Though Unfriended was only slightly effective, it opens the door to a new, really cool genre that could go places. After all, Fac ebook ha s a lw ay s been c reepy. Once you combi ne cyber anonymity, group chats, and the fear of the unknown, you’ve got a recipe for something sinister and beautiful.

Album of the Week Band: One Ton Project Album: Gizzards & Hearts - 2015 Signed to Battleground Records and hailing from Las Vegas, Nevada, One Ton Project has recently released their new and highly anticipated self-produced full-length album – Gizzards & Hearts. While listening to the 12 tracks on this record, you will notice their distinctive style and not to mention, the COURTESY heart they put into writing and playing each song. It’s clearly they pushed the creative boundaries of tradition on this record by infusing elements of various genres including jazz, rock, funk, blues, and reggae that blend to create a unique sound that is very pleasing to the ear. One Ton Project consists of five members who each add their own style – Daniel Fuller (drums), Adam Sage (bass), Joe Munoz (guitar), Brandon Desmond (guitar/vocals) and Travis Mercer (lead vocals/guitars). If you’re the type of person who enjoys pure musicianship with catchy hooks and soulfulness, be sure to check them out.

For more information, check out www.theontarion.com

SPORTS & HEALTH

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Mental Health & Wellness: The complexity of self-confidence Creating trust in one’s powers and abilities ANDREW SHURE When describing someone who is successful, people are quick to agree that this person is confident and believes in what he or she is doing. They may say he or she is decisive, positive, and optimistic towards an outcome.

Similarly, identif y ing someone who lacks self-confidence is relatively easy. They can be described as pessimistic, reluctant, and unwilling to take risks.

So why don’t we just tell these individuals to be more positive, give them a few compliments and motivational quotations, so then they can be on their way to an enjoyable and successful life?

Unfortunately, mental health issues a re not a si mple f i x .

These issues are as diverse as t he people t hat ex per ience them. One person may be outgoing, but very vulnerable to any negative feedback, while another may be very nice, but tries to avoid interaction with other people out of fear of being judged. Other common signs of

VICTORIA HENDERSON VIA CC BY 2.0/MODIFIED

Having self-confidence and communicating it to others can tremendously improve your mental health and well-being. low self-confidence (and similarly, low self-esteem) include negative or hopeless thoughts, diff icult y accepting compliments, frustration with oneself, negative comparisons to others, and an attribution of successes to luck or circumstance rather t ha n persona l capabi l it ies.

University students with selfconfidence issues frequently have dissatisfying relationships with friends and family, feelings

of self-doubt, a vulnerability to substance abuse, and can be greatly impacted by a poor grade.

It i s com mon l y ac c epted that a change in perspective needs to occur to improve selfconfidence. These changes can include focusing on learning f rom m ista kes, rat her t ha n dwelling on failures, not relying on validation from others, getting involved in meaningful

act iv it ies, and not t r y ing to compare oneself to others all the time. The hindering thought of what could happen if one tries something new should become what’s the worst t hat cou ld happen? But again, as mental health is a complex issue, there are a multitude of influences.

One i nterest i ng cu r rent field of research is investigating the role body position has on mood and body chemistry.

Amy Cuddy, a professor and researcher at Harvard Business School, found that changing your posture to a more ‘powerful’ position (shoulders back, head up, more open, tak ing up more space) for as little as t wo minutes, increased t he dominance hormone testosterone and decreased the stress hor mone cor t isol. Fu r t hermore, when put t hrough an experimental high-stress job interview, the subjects that were in the powerful poses beforehand were chosen as better candidates by observers blind to the study conditions.

Another point of focus for improving self-confidence may be ack nowledg ing t he lit t le successes. In his address to the class of 2014 at the University of Texas at Austin, Naval Admiral William McRaven claims, “if you want to change the world, you need to make your bed.”

This may sound trivial at first,

but he explains that the little things in life have importance, and that if you accomplish this basic task, it sets you up to complete more tasks throughout your day. He also adds that if it ends up being a terrible day, “you will come home to a bed that is made, that you made.”

It may also be necessary to be reminded that social media presents an edited version of real life. In her recent ESPN a r t icle “Spl it I mage,” K ate Fagan writes that the immense presence of social net working sites causes indiv iduals to go through his or her daily life experiencing regular successes and failures, while he or she continually takes in the edited version of other people’s lives, the versions of themselves that they want to portray. This does not allow for fair comparisons to be made – yet this can be quickly forgotten because these are people one has likely met before.

Improving self-confidence can be a difficult task, with no quick solution. However, the more things you try in order to improve yourself, the more you can learn. Maybe something new needs to be added, such as a new skill or hobby, or maybe something needs to be removed, such as an unhealthy friendship. You will never know unless you try.

2015 IIHF World Championships A brief look at the tournament ANDREW SHURE If you are a hockey fan, this is likely your favourite time of the year. The NHL playoffs are in full swing, and there are enough upsets, unsung heroes, and highlight reel moments to keep you glued to your television, radio, tablet, or other device. But it must be remembered that the playoffs are not the only branch of elite hockey being played right now. This year, the top tier hockey nations converge in Prague and Ostrava, Czech Republic for the International Ice Hockey Federation World Championship.

Fifteen other countries are vying to replace Russia as the reigning tournament champions.

Team Canada, led by captain Sidney Crosby and featuring the likes of Dan Hamhuis, Mike Smith and Matt Duchene (all members of the Sochi gold medal winning team), has played well so far. Through six games they are undefeated, including a strong 6-4 comeback victory against Sweden, and a 10-0 drubbing of Germany. With these wins, Canada clinched first place in pool A. Taylor Hall and Jordan Eberle lead the way with eight points each. Aaron Ekblad has also been particularly impressive thus far.

Team USA also features a young prospect showing he can compete at the highest level.

Jack Eichel, the eighteen-yearold f rom Boston Universit y anticipated to be the number two pick in the upcoming NHL draft behind Connor McDavid.

Young defensemen Seth Jones

of the Nashville Predators and Jake Gardiner of the Maple Leafs also play for team USA, who have successfully qualified for the quarter-finals.

Finally, the most followed player at this tournament is none other than hometown boy Jaromir Jagr. The forty-threeyear-old Czech forward is the oldest player in the tournament, but his age certainly isn’t showing, as he has averaged a point per game thus far – continuing to dazzle with his creative passing and timely goals.

The quarterfinals take place on May 14, with the finals being play on May 17. The world championships may lack the fights, the duration, and the beards of the NHL playoffs, but there is no loss in the caliber of skill, or the enthusiasm for Canada’s game.

TASHA FALCONER

Guelph’s Royal City Roller Girls (RCRG) held their home opener on May 9th. The RCRG, established in 2010, is the only roller derby league in Guelph. With two back-to-back games played, the atmosphere was electric and competitive.

REMEMBERING In Flanders Fields...

It is not an exaggeration to say that John McCrae’s poem In Flanders Fields, will live as long as the memory for the heroic struggle of the Canadians that formed its inspiration.

– Stephen Leacock

G A LOCAL HERO Marking the 100th Anniversary of John McCrae’s In Flanders Fields Celebrating the iconic poem and its significance in Canadian history EMILIO GHLOUM Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae was born November 30, 1872 in Guelph, Ontario. Primarily known for his famous poem titled In Flanders Fields, McCrae has gained worldwide recognition for his iconic work that captures the experience of war and dealing with loss in an enduring and tremendously impactful way.

McCrae prominently served in World War I as a surgeon for the 1st Brigade of the Canadian Field Artillery. In May 1915, McCrae penned the now famous poem In Flanders Fields during the historic Second Battle of Ypres. The month long battle in Western Belgium marked the first military use of chemical warfare on the Western Front – a tactic which ultimately demonstrated the true strength and bravery of the Canadian Forces, who defended their line successfully against the invading German attack.

The McCrae House, which now stands as a museum preserved by the City of Guelph, holds various mementos and belongings of John McCrae. The McCrae House has become a tourist attraction for many people who are fascinated by the story of John McCrae. While McCrae’s contributions to Canadian history are typically limited to his service in the Canadian Forces, he was also a wellrespected figure by his friends and colleagues alike.

“Think of it, [McCrae was] a poet and a scientist and a soldier – a scholar, a gentleman, a Christian, a fine fellow, generous, unselfish, a tireless, aggressive worker,” said Professor William Caldwell, a friend of McCrae’s during his time at McGill University.

His legacy as an important figure in Canadian history remains evident to this day through his poetry and his spirit – providing many citizens with an insight towards the brutality of war and the personal effects it can have on the individual. Presently, the poem is widely recited worldwide during Remembrance Day as a way to honour those who have fallen.

Tammy Adkins, Manager of the Guelph Civic Museum, noted the importance of John McCrae to the cultural and historical identity of Canada.

“Having knowledge of the history of our community

and our country is very important for all citizens. We learn important lessons from those who have come before us; lessons that inform decisions we make as individuals and as a community in moving forward. [Historical] knowledge contributes to our sense of place and sense of community, instills pride and wisdom, and inspires innovation,” said Adkins in an interview with The Ontarion.

Undoubtedly, the story of John McCrae has brought awareness to the importance of compassion and community throughout the City of Guelph. With In Flanders Fields having international recognition, members of Guelph can remember John McCrae with a sense of pride.

“Guelph is so proud to be the hometown of John McCrae. His stor y is a rea lly remarkable stor y about a regular Canadian boy who grew up to be an accomplished doctor, soldier and poet, and who had tremendous and enduring impact on the world. His is really is inspiring story on so many levels. For Guelph, there is a great sense of community pride around McCrae’s accomplishments. Beyond that, there is worldwide interest in the McCrae story, and as a result McCrae House has great appeal to tourists, drawing people from all over Canada and abroad. This certainly results in economic benefits for Guelph and for local businesses that cater to tourists,” said Adkins in regards to the influence of McCrae on the Guelph community.

All across Canada, celebrations and memorials of John McCrae took place to commemorate the 100-year anniversary of In Flanders Fields. On May 3, a statue of John McCrae was unveiled at Green Island Park in Ottawa to further demonstrate McCrae as a national symbol for exemplary Canadian bravery and courage. Further, the City of Guelph is planning to unveil a McCrae statue of its own. The new statue, set to be unveiled on June 25, will be located next to the Guelph Civic Museum.

The 100th anniversary of In Flanders Fields marks a special occasion for all those who have been effected by McCrae and his legacy. McCrae’s spirit and artistic merit lives on within the City of Guelph, whose citizens dearly admire and respect the essence of community and individuality in accordance with one another. In celebrating the 100th anniversary of McCrae’s influential poem, a variety of events are being held by the city in order to promote and raise awareness of McCrae’s life and legacy.

Photography by Dana Bellamy/The Ontarion Archive Images by VAC/ACC via CC BY-NC-SA 2.0/Modified Illustration by Patrick McDonald via CC BY-NC 2.0/Modified

John McCrae Programming and Events Mar. 27–Aug. 9 Jun. 23–Aug. 30 Jun. 25 Jul. 2–Aug. 8 Aug. 21–Nov. 15 Sept. 27 Oct. 2–Oct. 10 Nov. 11

Remembering In Flanders Fields Art Exhibition at Guelph Civic Museum Daily Tea & Tours at the McCrae House John McCrae statue unveiled at Guelph Civic Museum A Night in Flanders outdoor one act play at McCrae House Fighting In Flanders exhibition from Canadian War Museum on display at Guelph Civic Museum John McCrae’s Guelph Tour In the Footsteps of John McCrae: Commemorating 100 Years of In Flanders Fields Tour of France and Belgium Remembrance Day services by Royal Canadian Legion and John McCrae Public School at the McCrae House and Memorial Gardens

Issue 177.1 | May 14th, 2015

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LIFE

Science Avenue: Wearable Technology

THOMAS HAWK VIA CC BY-NC 2.0

Wearable technology creates an unprecedented and innovative connection between technological advancement and the human condition.

A modern twist on an ancient look SAMEER CHHABRA What is Wearable Technology?

In the human species’ haste t o u nc o v e r l i f e - c h a n g i n g , game-shifting, world-affecting advancement, we often fail to ask if a particular revolution is necessary. Far be it from me to inject politics, ethics, or morality into a particular endeavour, but the advent of fitness trackers and smartwatches like the Pebble, Moto 360, and Apple Watch have all delivered unprecedented

advancements in technology, while simultaneously failing to answer the basic question of necessity. That is to say, now that we are capable of fulfilling our dreams of wearing Dick Tracylike watches that also double as telephones, televisions, and teleprompters, do we really need them?

Wearable technolog y is yet another form of modernity that is firmly rooted in the design sensibilities of the ancient past.

Instead of needing to lug around a computer, or a laptop, or even pull a mobile phone out of pockets, the presence of watches on our wrists increase efficiency, whi le reducing user st ra in.

Simply put, wearable technology takes the form of basic devices,

like watches, to ensure that users can access their information without actually needing to directly access a computer or laptop.

How does Wearable Technology work?

The most important factor to consider when attempting to link a watch with a computer is actually not the design of the device, but rather the mode of connection. How can we transmit t he informat ion on one device so that the same information can be manipulated on another, smaller, more distant device without using a wire or link cable?

Current wearable technolog y, like the Apple Watch, or

any of the offerings released by Google’s Android Wear platform, connects devices using the wireless Bluetooth standard.

Doing so enables devices like computers and smartphones to transmit information to devices like smartwatches without the fuss of a wire or cable. However, due to the nature of Bluetooth, and due to the fact that device components can only be so small, the information transmitted from a phone to a watch is minimal, in order to ensure that watches remain wearable.

Other w ise, wearable technology functions and controls information in a similar manner to traditional input devices like phones a nd laptops. Wea rable technology allows users to manipulate the same information they would normally use with a phone or computer by simply tapping away at a watch screen or glass lens.

Why is Wearable Technology important?

I mentioned earlier that we’re able to manipulate information with wearable technology, but the need for such technology has to be addressed. There is a simple fact that cannot be avoided, and that is the fact that the general public manipulates technology in a different manner than governmental agencies, engineers, medical staff, and construction workers. That is to say, ask ing why wearable technology is important is the wrong problem to solve. Instead, the true solution lies in asking: when will wearable technology become important?

As of present time, the smartwatch-wearing public has yet

to truly provide a meaningful reason for having a smartwatch on one’s wrist.

What is the future of Wearable Technology?

When Microsoft released their Kinect motion-sensing console in 2010, the video game industry absolutely struggled to utilize the technology in an entertaining, user-friendly way. Instead, it was the medical industr y, a g loba l ma rket hu ng r y for affordable, easily accessible innovation, that truly benefitted from the motion-controlled technology. Within months of release, programmers manipulated Kinect’s basic functionality to produce machines that were able to scan patients for disease, bone fracture, and general physiology to provide doctors with information that would otherwise require hours of costly medical examination.

The future of wearable technology with the general public will never truly expand beyond easi ly respond i ng to socia l networking and reducing our reliance on the computers in our pockets.

As always, however, I am truly excited for the absurd possibilities. I imagine a world where doctors a re able to qu ick ly access patient information using the watches on their wrists. I imagine a world where soldiers don’t need to rely on heavy computers to relay vital information.

I imagine a world where we no longer need wallets, or keys, or even identification cards, because our data and information will be endlessly connected through simple, easy-to-carry, easy-to-access devices.

Beauty Balm and Aftershave Recipe FATEMA RAHEEMI

own will help during times of seasonal heat and humidity. It can also help protect your skin from the heat of the sun.

Why are unisex beauty products present in today’s market?

The answer is simple – men and women both use beauty products.

The intent of this article is to allow for an inclusive product that would be useful, unique, and low-cost for everyday people.

B.B. cream, also known as beauty balm, is a lighter version of foundation. Creating your

Steps: Using a clean jar, fill the container with three quarters aloe vera lotion. Next, mix your colour of foundation into the jar and mix a teaspoon or more at a time. This is where you can start matching your skin colour. Then, Mix the foundation and test on your hand or face to see how it is blending in with your skin.

A quick DIY

After blending, scrape some of the brown powder to help mix deeper tones. Each skin tone has other hints of colour in it as well. Lighter tones can have peach-pink tones, medium tones can also occur as yellow-golden tones. Deep tones can have lighter brown colours, and rich tones with reds.

For help mixing certain deep skin tones you can look for a pressed powder that has medium brown or reddish-brown colour to it. If you want a sun kissed tanned glow, you can mix a little more dark

brown into your mix and increase the actual shade of your skin tone gradually to your liking. You can also use this on your body as a selftanner. You can mix a little matte coloured eye shadow into the concealer and ombré your lips.

Lastly, here is a quick DIY Aftershave Anytime Balm: Mix one cup of white liquid Aloe Vera cream, a few drops of oil (olive, flaxseed, or coconut) and one teaspoon of ground cinnamon.

Mix well and enjoy!

You can make your own B.B. cream with the following: • Fou ndat ion match i ng your skin tone • Twist top reusable container—one cup • D ark Brown matte eyeshadow, contour pressed powder, or bronzer • A smooth liquid texture (make sure to test on face in case of skin irritation)

OPINION

9

Changing the Subject: Black Widow Many fans disappointed

by Marvel’s failure to portray a solid female superhero DANIELLE SUBJECT Following the release of The Avengers: Age of Ultron, Joss Whedon was attacked via the cyber sphere. Directing and writing for the film, Whedon was criticized by fans for his portrayal of Marvel’s Black Widow character (one of Marvel’s few successful female superheroes).

Following the backlash, Whedon closed his Twitter account for ambiguous reasons.

Having seen the movie, Black Widow’s character development kind of sucks. I wasn’t happy with her in the first film, since she was super low-key and didn’t

seem to do anything cool (aside from her crazy leg-maneuvers).

In Age of Ultron, her character was reduced to an unfulfilled woman with a weird romantic subplot.

In the first Avengers film, Loki and Black Widow have an interesting conversation that subtly foreshadows a juicy backstory for Black W idow, however, nothing was done about it in the second film.

There was little-to-no chemistry between Black Widow and the Hulk, making the romance between them feel a little out of place.

Meanwhile, Iron Man makes a rape joke early in the film, which also threw off a lot fans. It was coming out of Ironman’s mouth, which did not surprise me, as his character has already been depicted as a nauseating alphamale with an overcompensation complex. When Ironman tried to lift Thor’s hammer, he claims that the first thing he would do during his reign over Asgard is reinstate Prima Nocta, which is a law claiming that a leader can sleep with whatever bride he wants on her wedding night.

Despite popular belief, the film itself did not slut-shame anyone. Outside of the film, however, Chris Evans (Captain America) and Jeremy Renner (Hawkeye) decided to put their intelligence on hold by blatantly calling Black Widow’s character a “slut” and a “whore” in an interview. This, of course, ref lected itself onto the film’s values. This is why actors are told to represent themselves outside of a film as appropriately as possible, because everyone knows that anything a person does in the public sphere may directly represent the organizations they are involved with.

Obviously these two actors were not aware of this rule, and that is why Public Relations jobs are still available.

The biggest problem w it h Black Widow’s character was her reference to being a “monster” after a disappointing revelation.

Black Widow reveals that her big secret – that she was sterilized by the people that built her into an assassin during her graduation ceremony as a child. She seemingly longs for motherhood, however, as the way this

information is relayed gives the audience the impression that she is empty and damaged due to her inability to have children.

She also refers to herself as a monster directly after explaining that her inability to have children was “one less thing to worry about” to her trainers.

Many interpreted the scene as blatantly portray ing women w ithout children, or women who cannot have children, as monstrosities.

It is understandable why so many people were offended by Black Widow’s revelation, as women without children are constantly ostracized in real life. Whedon, however, has a reputation for placing female characters in male-dominated societies and indirectly commenting on a female’s struggle in realit y through that character’s downfalls. In Buffy the Vampire Slayer, for example, W hedon portrays a female’s st r ug g le for sex ua l agenc y through Buffy’s inability to sleep with the person she loves (due to a curse that will turn her lover into a soulless being). Buffy’s struggle with sexual fulfillment

is popularly viewed as a comment on a female’s constant struggle to achieve full sexual agency in a society that doesn’t support it, regardless of how strong a character she is.

Perhaps Black Widow’s inabilit y to have children was an indirect portrayal of the struggle women have to balance womanhood and careers, due to society’s inability to change the system. Black Widow could also represent the constant struggle women face for complete control over their reproductive system, since Black Widow’s choice was stolen from her at a young age.

Regardless of whether it was Whedon’s fault or not, Marvel screwed up roya l ly when they decided to exclude Black Widow from merchandising.

In toy stores, you can find sets that come with every member of the Avengers team except for Black Widow, which is a little ridiculous. Apparently this was caused by the fact that Disney claimed that they already had the girls’ toy market down-pact (whatever that means), so they did not need Black Widow merchandise....hmm.

take extended periods of time to fix. These expenses could also take up a majority of the city’s budget, which ultimately limits the amount of funding that the city can offer for its people in the way of grants, community funding, and community outreach. This also hurts small businesses due to the damages and loss of customers to their shops. Economically, rioting is a strain on everyone in the city.

R iot i ng a l so da nger s t he wellbeing of people in the surrounding area. W here t here is a riot, there will be people injured. Further clashes occur when there are people trying to suppress the riot, usually in non-lethal yet dangerous and painful methods such as tear gas. T hose pa r t icipat i ng i n riots usually have no intention to ha r m i n nocent bysta nders. However, injuries among civilians are inescapable. The biggest issue is t he unluck y third party that makes rioting ver y difficult to justif y. If we take a condensed cit y block where a riot has broken out and suddenly a building catches

fire, that fire will spread. It is the innocent people in those bu i ld i ngs who su f fer a nd cannot f lee in the wake of a burning building. Endangering unsuspecting peoples lives for a cause, whether intentional or not, is difficult to justify as the correct action.

There are, however, positive aspects to rioting that should not be overlooked. A riot does not come about out of nowhere; there is always a catalyst that br i ngs people toget her a nd evokes such strong emotion.

The riot is always a reaction to something that is deemed unjust by a typically large group of people and they feel that their complaints have not duly been recognized. The intentions of a riot are, in most cases at least, good intentions; people want to be heard and have their issues solved. As a consequence of the havoc that comes along with a riot, it is surely a priority to stop further destruction. Rioting also shows that the issue at hand is important enough for people to risk their wellbeing for a cause. A riot is a powerful

and unforgettable statement.

R iots generally have good intentions behind them, but are often misguided in their practical application. They usually end up doing more harm than good for the cause. When something becomes popular by violent means, it transfers over to give the illusion that people who subscribe to that believe a re a l s o v iolent . T h i s c a n detract from the purpose of the riot because people are afraid of violence. Fear and violence are not effective diplomatic means because once the fear and violence leave, people will likely revert back to their prior beliefs.

Finding a non-violent way of educat i ng people is a lways more effective than instilling fear. People sometimes need to be stirred from their comfortable lives and act against things that are unjust, but violence is not an effective means. Following from that, riots, though usually with good intentions behind them, are not effective ways to solve long-term issues.

The values of riot An opinion on the positive and negative values of riots in general CALUM FERRALL Rioting is a destructive expression of a nger used to br ing urgency and publicity to issues that concern rioting parties.

This expression is not often meditated, but rather, it is a spontaneous act ion usua lly caused by tension. This tension is usually due to a social or political stance a group finds u nju st, lead i ng to protest s that could develop into riots.

Whether the protest is peaceful or violent, it is undeniable that the crowd is fuelled with an energy not easily defused.

Ignoring the issue only creates a stronger tension, making the group more volatile – which may entice them to erupt in a

riot. In general, are riots justifiable as an appropriate means of expression for change, or should they be avoided entirely?

...important enough for people to risk their wellbeing for a cause...

Beginning with the negative, riots, in most cases, cause structural damage. There is no doubt that smashing the windows of a local business and burning cars in the streets has its impact on the whole communit y. Damages to buildings and streets can have prolonged effects on the city and could cause serious structural damage that could

Issue 177.1 | May 14th, 2015

EDITORIAL

10

The importance of coffee

DANA BELLAMY/THE ONTARION

Having a cup of coffee is more than just a caffeine fix - it gives you the opportunity to reflect and be content with yourself.

A historic and meaningful beverage Si nce my ea rly h ig h school years, I of f icia l ly became a coffee drinker. At a young age, drinking coffee was a sort of escape – a way of travelling forward through adulthood. On my morning walks to school, I would be accompanied by my Wu-Tang and Bob Dylan-filled playlists on my MP3 player, and a cup of coffee – ready and primed to tackle the oncoming day.

For me, coffee has become a much more sentimental component of my life than I ever intended. I am constantly asked how much coffee I drink, (two to three cups is not bad in my books), and I am often greeted with concern or confusion.

Cof fee is such a versat i le

beverage it is no wonder why people con su me it heav i l y worldw ide. With ever y thing from iced coffee, cappuccino, espresso, and Turkish coffee, there is a unique type of coffee for everyone.

...the tremendous historical influence of coffee cannot be ignored.

For many, coffee is merely seen as a vehicle for caffeine – a way to wake up in the mornings

or stay awake at night. This is where I have to strongly disagree. Coffee is so much more than just a caffeine dose. Coffee has a history – it commands nostalgia and prompts memories of all those who have indulged before us.

From the consistently debated origin story of coffee consumption beginning in the Ethiopian highlands, to the prominence of the beverage in London coffeehouses during the mid-17 th century, the tremendous historical influence of coffee cannot be ignored. Instead, it should be recognized and celebrated with every cup.

Not only can coffee remind you of the past, but it can also function as a way to have meaningful conversation. Going out for a coffee with my friends has been a crucial part of my life – whether I was aware of it or not, a lot of great moments and memories happen when in the

presence of coffee. In this sense, coffee becomes an ever yday aspect of your life – something as common as a watch – a measurement of time and memory.

As T.S Eliot famously penned in The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock, coffee becomes a way to relate to the exterior world.

“For I have known them all already, known them all:/ Have known the evening, morning, afternoons/ I have measure out my life with coffee spoons.”

Eliot’s poignant lines should resonate with coffee drinkers every where. How many cups of coffee have you had in your lifetime? Have you been aware of the amount of time it takes to drink one cup, and the fleeting moments surrounding you as you drink? Just as quickly as coffee can create a moment, it can also take them away. Coffee is a gift – whether you perceive it being more than just a caffeine fix is entirely up to you.

The lines Eliot wrote in his famous poem signal a crucial move in this unique and coffeedriven editorial. Coffee is no longer about the actual substance of the beverage, or which t y pe of roast a nd brew you prefer, but a plethora of meaning arises out of the act of drinking coffee itself. The environment you inhabit, the company you share, and your state of mind all contribute to the enjoyment of coffee much more than the flavour of the drink.

T here is not h i ng l i ke t he sound of an espresso brewing.

The aromatic scent fills the air as you watch the espresso drip into the small, heated, porcelain cup. Or the whirring sound of a coffee grinder chopping up your roast of choice, followed by the deep, therapeutic plunge of the French press – almost as if the contraption is fighting against you. In the end, coffee always wins.

My brot her, who recent ly came back from a volunteer trip in Costa Rica, brought back two fresh packs of roasted coffee beans. I was ecstatic. Once he handed the coffee to me, I carefully opened the package and immediately got hit by unforgettable scent. It was at that moment when I stopped and began to think about the true significance coffee has had in my life. Each cup is essentially a story – we just usually aren’t reading it. Needless to say, the coffee was absolutely delicious.

However, I ended up enjoying the story behind the coffee and the time spent drinking it more than the drink itself.

Ger t r ude Stei n, a fa mous American novelist and poet, sums up my sentiments about coffee in a precise and enduring way: “Coffee is real good when you drink it, it gives you time to think. It’s a lot more than just a drink; it’s something happening.

Not as in hip, but like an event, a place to be, but not like a location, but like somewhere within yourself. It gives you time, but not actual hours or minutes, but a chance to be, like be yourself, and have a second cup.”

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 Emilio Ghloum Production Staff Photo & Graphics Editor Dana Bellamy Director of Layout & Design Lynne Lam

Office Staff Business Coordinator Lorrie Taylor Ad Manager Al Ladha Office Manager Aaron Jacklin Circulation Director Salvador Moran

Board Of Directors President Alex Lefebvre Chairperson Patrick Sutherland Treasurer Patrice Manuel Secretary Zina Bibanovic

Directors Melissa Chong Ah Yan Erin Szulc Shane Liquornik Meghan Tennant

Contributors Carleigh Cathcart Sameer Chhabra Tasha Falconer Kimberly Farias Calum Ferrall Eric Leamen Mido Melebari Fatema Raheemi Andrew Shure Danielle Subject

FUN PAGE

11

ANSWERS FROM 176.13

Crossword Winner from 176.13 is… Alex Léveillé!

CLASSIFIEDS DEVELOPMENTAL RESOURCE FAIR: Tuesday, May 19th, 5-8 pm at the River Run Centre. For students and adults with a developmental disability, their loved ones, and community members who would like to learn more.

NAT UR E GUELPH Meet ing: Thursday, May 14th at 7:30 pm at the Arboretum Centre. All welcome. “The ot her end of migration: the lives of Neotropical migrants on their wintering grounds”, speaker is Lev Frid.

COMMUNITY LISTINGS May 19: Rela xat ion & St ress Management Skills Training. A 12 session program to decrease anxiety, headaches, insomnia and muscle tension. Meeting from 8-9 pm on Tuesday and Thursday evenings for 6 weeks.

Details at www.selfregulationskills.ca.

May 26: Better Sleep Program.

Learn how to decrease insomnia and fall asleep more easily.

This 5 session program meets on Tuesdays at 6:30 pm. Details at www.selfregulationskills.ca.

SUBMIT A COMPLETED CROSSWORD TO THE ONTARION OFFICE, UC 264, NO LATER THAN TUESDAY, MAY 19TH AT 4PM FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN TWO FREE BOB’S DOGS! Across 1- Ah, me!

5- Symbol of Lebanon 10- Crimson Tide, for short 14- Theater box 15- Wear down, physically or emotionally 16- Division politique 17- Like ___ out of hell 18- China’s Zhou ___ 19- Small salamander 20- Scandinavian 22- Machinery 24- Official records 27- In the old days 28- Dwarf 32- Small egg 36- Sound of surprise 37- Studio sign 39- Gunpowder ingredient 40- Talk irrationally 42- Mary of “The Maltese Falcon”

44- ___ Fein 45- Lock 47- Impassive 49- Fleur-de-___ 50- Simmons rival 51- Outflow 53- Pi followers 56- Witnesses 57- Increase 61- Like granola 65- Low in fat 66- Taco topper 69- Tidal ____ 70- Suspend 71- Judge, e.g.

72- Adriatic resort 73- Arrow poison 74- Flight unit 75- Enthusiastic vigor and liveliness

Down 1- King of comedy 2- Gray wolf 3- Thickening agent 4- Attacks 5- So-so grade 6- Directional ending 7- Distribute, with “out” 8- Hersey’s bell town 9- Prevail 10- Highest peak in Great Britain 11- To ___ (exactly) 12- Bryn ___ College 13- ABA member 21- Repeat 23- Computer symbolw 25- “Chicken of the sea” 26- Collect 28- Legal wrongs 29- Chicago hub 30- Man with a van, perhaps

31- Please, in Potsdam 33- Of service 34- Bolshevik leader 35- Director Lubitsch 38- Summits of buildings 41- Keep at a distance 43- Rampant 46- Comedian Mort 48- Jazz singer Laine 52- Good, in a way 54- Brewery kilns 55- Turn on 57- K-12 58- Actor Penn 59- Walking stick 60- Charles Lamb’s pen name 62- Work hard 63- Mother of the Valkyries 64- Element #10 67- Cinque follower 68- Sheet music abbr.;

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