Passion8 Magazine December 2013

MAGAZINE

2013 PASSION8

ENTREPRENEURS HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

PASSION8 STORIES FROM YOUNG PROFESSIONALS

CONSCIOUS WINTER FASHION

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Try Something

Trying new things is a way to explore, whether it be exploring what’s out there in the world or figuring out what lies within you.

If the world truly is ours to discover, then the only way to go about that is doing something different. It’s really easy to fall into routine and find satisfaction in having completed yet another day.

But satisfaction sometimes isn’t enough for a few of us. And to this I find the answer in discovering new activities.

The age old Nike slogan has been around for a very long time, and never have I taken it as seriously as I do now. Just do it. As simple as it sounds, I find happiness in throwing myself into something new and interesting, especially if it’s outside of my comfort zone.

Whether it be on a daily basis or a huge move, going out of my comfort zone and attempting something different is what puts a smile on my face. For example, a student can benefit from challenging themselves every semester; joining a new club, trying a new a sport, or volunteering their time to a new cause. If they want to test their capability at a larger scale, they could travel to place where their language isn’t spoken. Traveling is a great way to make friends while learning about what’s out there in the world and learning about your strengths and weaknesses as an individual.

They say experience teaches you the most, so why not try to experience anything and everything that’s out there. From the every day micro level, to the larger scheme of things, trying new things and making mistakes is the best way to learn throughout your life.

As said by Neil Gaiman: “I hope in this year to come you make mistakes. Because if you are making mistakes, then you are making new things, trying new things, learning, living, pushing yourself, changing yourself, changing your world.

You’re doing things you’ve never done before, and more importantly, you’re doing something.”

Article by Katy Sagher Photography by Lindsay Nemeth

DO YOU WANT TO LIVE? You will die.

Scary thought isn’t it?

But you don’t have to worry about that right now. Chances are you have a full life ahead The chance to wander, seek adventure, stare in amazement at the things you love and explore the wonderful world of the 21st century.

But you’re scared. The future is scary.

The idea of not-knowing is enough for you to stay within the pack and refrain from any notion of raising your hand. You’re afraid to look to the path off the main highway because you’re scared you might be alone, lost and unfamiliar.

The unbeaten path, so they say, is uncharted. “No one has been there before”, you say to yourself. “It can’t be a safe place.” You let yourself believe that there are only dangers lurking in the wilderness. Only obstacles that can harm you. Only creatures whose sole purpose in their lives is to feast on your courage and curiosity for treading in unfamiliar territory.

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Article by: Benny Hua | Photo by Jessica Copeland Photography

This is why you choose to stay. This unbeknownst fear that you have let grow deep inside your heart is why you will never know what lies beyond the other side of the unmarked door. No one has ever come back. So they must be dead.

But what if?

What if they aren’t dead? What if it’s a place of paradise so far beyond our world that no one wants to return? What if it’s a place so green, so forgiving, so beautiful that we’ve been wasting time here marching single file on the drab, grey highway of conservative life? What if it’s a place of miracles? A place where dreams are alive. A place where others help instead of fight; borrow instead of steal; love instead of hate; and live instead of die.

The saddest part about it is that you will never know. You don’t want to know. You tell yourself you’re happy with where you are now, but you’ll wonder. You will always wonder.

You’ll rehearse and ponder the “what if’s” over and over again in your mind until the final day comes when you can ponder no more.

As you read the words on this page, reflect on those things in your life’s periphery.

Those things you’ve longed to do from as far back as you can remember. The things that you’ve put on the backburner and left to char because it’s not the right time, there’s not enough money, you’re too busy right now, or any other excuse you’ve managed to come up with.

Think of those things, then do them.

Because, what if?

TURNING A

BAD SITUATION INTO A

LIFE-CHANGING CAREER

It was the week before the start of grade 11. We were having a girls night at my friend Emma's house like usual.

At the time, all friends lived within walking distance. The plan was to meet my long-time friend Carly halfway before arriving at our send-off summer sleepover. I was getting ready to leave before the telephone started ringing. It was our family doctor calling for my mom. As I listened to her responding to the call, I knew it wasn't good. She kept her composure until she hung up. All of a sudden she started crying. I knew it was the phone call no family ever wanted to receive; her biopsy came back positive for cancer. Every little bit of my mom's battle with cancer affected my life. I was worried my mom was not going to be able to cope with all the side effects of treatment. By no means is my mother vein, but it caused her some anxiety knowing she had to go through chemotherapy and likely lose her hair. We were able to go to some of her treatments when we weren't in school and she was finally able to find a wig that represented the hair she had always wanted.

She fought, and she won.

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She's been clear for years now and I pray to God every day that she will stay that way. I went off to college and the years flew by. I wasn't able to find a full-time job in my field, so I was forced to take a position at a company my father works for in Toronto. It was a long commute and a desk job; far from the life I used to live as a fitness instructor. One day I came across a job posting at my local hospital in Barrie. They were opening a brand new cancer care lodge; a place that cancer patients could stay inexpensively if they were commuting a long distance for treatment. I jumped on the opportunity to apply. I was given the chance for an interview and within hours I was notified that even though I was much younger than they had anticipated, the job was mine. I had never been so happy. The position was only for part-time, but it did not matter- I knew this is what I wanted to do.

The average age of a guest in our lodge is over 60. As scary as it is, for some, this is their second round of the disease. The majority of women are fighting breast cancer and most of the men have colon or prostate cancer.

With 20 hotel-style rooms with two beds in each, the guests get to have a comfortable place to stay that does not resemble a hospital. We have a dining room, full kitchen, lounge, library and a beautiful deck complete with a garden. Gorgeous paintings donated to the lodge cover every wall, and there’s always an opportunity to participate in group activities. My work environment is truly beautiful. As a recreation

therapist, I was able to plan group activities that would be beneficial to guests. We set up Thursday nights, which was originally "pizza and a movie night". Some of those staying for treatment are there for more than 6 weeks, so we soon branched out into "Swiss Chalet" or "Fish and Chip" night. As the group would gather together to share a meal, stories would start flying around the table. Those with grandchildren

always have the most to say. People will openly discuss their treatments, diagnosis, outcomes, and what they were going to do when "this is all over". It was amazing the relationships that blossomed with the most unlikely of friends. I have learned that when people go through something as lifechanging as being diagnosed with cancer they open up completely. A lot of my guests just want to talk.

I ask them all about their lives and I have had the opportunity to learn so much in return. I have learned how to knit, countless delicious recipes, and been given the opportunity to lend a listening ear and a shoulder to cry on. I have learned some great jokes from some older men in particular. I have learned that turmeric is not magic, but does help fight cancer and that there are certain types of oils you should use when heating to higher temperatures to prevent harmful carcinogens. All guests cope differently, but one lady in particular put a pink bead on her bracelet after every treatment or appointment. Once she was done her beads, she had finished her journey. Each and every person who I encounter touches my life in one way or another. Their battle stories are the most interesting and inspiring tales and puts into perspective how precious life is; how lucky I truly am. Some of the women who lose their hair due to chemotherapy have a little more to deal with aesthetically. It’s wonderful to see the confidence they develop throughout their time with other guests in the same situation. In week oneeveryone wears their wigs or hats. By week three most of the ladies wear nothing at all. No judgement is passed and everyone feels free to walk around as they please. Their new found confidence is what makes them beautiful.

We also offer programs in our hospital such as “Look Good, Feel Better”. It is an organization with 1900 volunteers in Ontario offering cosmetic courses and free make up swag for women and teens coping with cancer. Their pink swag box is worth over $500 retail and all donated by cosmetic companies such as Shoppers Drug Mart. Women are encouraged to throw out their old make up and start fresh with a new moisturizing regiment, how to properly draw on eyebrows, and how to trick people into thinking you have eye lashes. For more information on this amazing organization, please check out “http://www.lgfb.ca/en/”http://www.lgfb.ca/en/. Everyone walks out of their room in the morning, fixes breakfast, greetseveryone with a smile, and let’s you know how beautiful the day is going to be. Countless times I’ve overheard conversations ending in “I’m not going to let this beat me”. My job is to keep the positivity flowing by offering the greatest recreation and leisure opportunities to anyone who wants to participate. The one thing in common with all the patients that have come and gone; positivity is the key to winning the battle. This experience has been invaluable to me. The thank you letters I have received from both patients and families makes every early morning and late night worth it. As much as it is painful thinking about my past, I’m so thankful I can share my experience with the world in order to help at least one cancer patient have an easier journey.

infinity

TANYA NAGI I was told that university wouldn’t be easy and it certainly hasn’t been.

There are days where I don’t have a chance to catch my breath. I have classes to attend, homework, assignments, midterms, and extracurricular activities and I need to find the time to go to the gym.

I need to plan for my future. Which career field do I want to choose? Do I want to continue to achieve higher education after my undergrad?

How am I going to pay off my student loans?

But, I also want to have fun.

It should not come as a surprise that scholars have dubbed us as The Me Generation. After all, everything is about me: my situation, my circumstances, and my problems. When did I become so important?

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yours to encompass. There are many that contributed to your success. It saddens me to learn that so many students that live away from home don’t contact their parents.

You probably don’t understand what a difference one phone call a week can make to them. If you don’t have such a strong relationship with them, then start by sending them a text.

I felt small.

Everything can be replaced eventually. Your belongings, your problems, your money and even your misfortunes, but you cannot replace the experiences or the time you spent with a loved one.

My situation, my circumstances, and my problems, they all felt so small. I let myself think that I was the most important. I couldn’t recall the last time I sat down with a friend to ask them about their life. I couldn’t recall the last time I made a difference.

I learned an essential lesson that night: your dreams are important but so are the people around you.

Your hopes and dreams aren’t only

If you ever feel the need to look into infinity and realize your insignificance, then drive up to the intersection of Bisch Street and Benjamin Road in Waterloo, Ontario at night.

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Recently, a dear friend of mine took

me on a long drive at night. We ended up on a deserted road in the middle of a field without any street lights. We stepped outside into the cold. The silence of the night was comforting. I could hear my every heartbeat, feel each breath. I looked up at the night sky and suddenly realized my own insignificance. I had never seen stars so clearly before, clusters upon clusters of stars.

ARE THEY REALLY

MONSTERS? by: Jessica Copeland

Topics regarding the “Pit Bull” have become very controversial, with extremists on either side. The topic is vast, with many different components at play. In my eyes they are a severely misunderstood category of dog. With so many myths and misconceptions behind the name, it’s hard to see them for what they truely are- DOGS. Through this four part series I hope to provide some insight into BSL and “Pit Bulls” for those with little knowledge, and maybe another point of view for those more in the know.

So what is BSL? BSL stands for Bull Shit Legislation.

Well not actually, but it’s probably a more accurate description of this heinous law than its actual meaning: Breed Specific Legislation.

There are slightly different forms of BSL laws enforced in many countries, placing bans and/or restrictions on certain dog breeds/types.

These legislations target large breed dogs ranging from Mastiffs to German Shepherds, to less commonly known breeds such as the Presa Canario,or Japanese Tosa, and nearly all make mention of the infamous “Pit Bull”.

These so called “breed specific” legislationscan can actually be rather vague and open ended. Although, most legislations do list certain breeds that are restricted and/or banned, many also use clauses such as, “any breed of dog that may be perceived as dangerous is prohibited” or “any

dog which has the appearance and physical characteristics predominantly conforming to the standards for any of the above breeds…”. These open ended statements allow for other dogs to be clumped into these legislations at any time.

The ban here in Ontario has been in place since August 2005 and it cites that no person shall: 1.

Own a pit bull;

2.

Breed a pit bull;

3.

Transfer a pit bull, whether by sale, gift or otherwise;

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Abandon a pit bull other than to a pound operated by or on behalf of a municipality, Ontario or a designated body;

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Allow a pit bull in his or her possession to stray;

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Import a pit bull into Ontario; or

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Train a pit bull for fighting.

ARE YOU AT RISK? The only problem is, as a dog owner, how do you know what a “Pit Bull” is anymore, and if you have one? The simple answer is: you can’t. If anyone, a neighbour, stranger, or enemy, thinks that MAYBE your dog is a “Pit Bull” and reports it, Animal Control then has the “right” to enter your home without a warrant and potentially take your pet with them.

There was an incident shared with brindlestick.blogspot.ca from Thornhill where a couple was reported for having a “Pit Bull”, Animal Control showed up at their home, asked to see their dog, and then started taking many photos without asking breed, age, or anything else about the dog for that matter.

The couple was then given papers explaining DOLA (Dog Owners Liability Act), and the “Pit Bull ban”, and was then informed the officer would be taking their beloved pet to be destroyed.

Shocked and confused the owners

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this and asked him to leave. A month later the couple had two door charging them under DOLA with owning a prohibited breed. At their court date the couple took their registration papers with them proving that their dog Lucky was a purebred, registered Labrador Retriever, and the charges were dropped.

Amanda Thurston found herself in a started taking pictures and questioning her about her young dog, Calleigh. Amanda was told she either had to surrender Calleigh to be destroyed, or prove her breed/age within 30 days. 16 days later Amanda received a letter stating she was being charged under DOLA with owning a prohibited pit bull dog, and was requested in court.

Amanda had a high risk assessment done on Calleigh and had multiple trainers come to her house, all to conclude Calleigh was a perfectly behaved pup. She even had a DNA test done that stated Calleigh was a mixture of Bull Terrier, Rotti, Bichon Frise, Miniature Pinscher, and St. Bernard.

Sadly, Amanda was forced to muzzle Calleigh in public, which had emotional act out, misbehave, and became depressed. Amanda had to watch her dog be torn down from a happy, playful pup to a depressed dog that would walk with her tail between her legs and ears pinned back.

For 9 long months Amanda cried herself to sleep holding Calleigh close. Calleigh would kiss her and try to comfort her mom the best she could. In the end all the stress and depression, all the

worrying, crying, and heart break for what the future held for her best friend’s life was over, Amanda had won the case for Calleigh’s life.

LIVING WITH BSL. Lori Gray, who is the Chair of Events for the DLCC (Dog Legislation Council of Canada), a self-employed hair dresser, and the voice behind brindlestick.blogspot.ca, has had 10 years of her life consumed by it.

The DLCC has stood behind hundreds of individual cases, offering knowledge and moral support to owners facing legal battles similar to Amanda and Calleigh’s.

The DLCC took their own case to have the ban lifted all the way to the Supreme Court of Canada to the tune of 3.4 million dollars, which they are still paying. Sadly their case was never heard.

Lori is the proud owner of two 8 year old, purebred AmStaff’s (American Staffordshire Terriers), named Justice and Una. When the law was originally passed back in 2005, Lori found herself in pure disbelief, “there was no foreshadowing to the law, no muzzle education, no education even on who was actually effected. Your guess was, and still is as good as theirs”. Lori says at this point it is more of a political game than about actual public safety, “the Liberals said it and then did it, and now won’t take it back. If we could get rid of the Liberals getting rid of this heinous law”. She also pointed out that not only is this law affecting average Joe’s like her, with dogs that were never an issue, but it is also directly affecting those with jobs that could have them bouncing from place to place, such as military personale or professional athletes. themselves posted in Ontario are forced to either give up their dog or be split apart.

Ontario does not welcome new “Pit Bulls” into the province, thus families are forced to live apart with their military person(s) in Ontario and the rest of the family waiting in Quebec.

Photos by owner submissions and Jessica Copeland Photography

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The Beuhrle family, yes we are talking one of the Blue Jay’s current pitchers, when Mark made the move from the Marlin’s to the Jay’s. Mark had to leave behind his wife, 2 children, and 4 dogs while he was in Ontario, because one of their dogs, Slater, wasn’t welcome.

Furthermore, if you own a “Pit Bull” type dog you can no longer driver across Canada with it. Both Manitoba and Ontario have bans that do not allow the entrance of “Pit Bulls” into the province, thus you would have to divert into the USA and literally go around both if you were traveling with a “Pit Bull” pooch.

dog with a “Pit Bull”.

When I asked Angela the kinds of comments she receives about her dog when in public she said she is frequently asked if her dog bites due to the muzzle it is forced to wear and gets many anxious questions about her dog being pregnant due to pronounced nipples.

Angela works as a freelance paralegal and absolutely bought into the media’s idea of a “Pit Bull”, until by chance ending up with one of her own. Before Cardi, Angela was a small dog owner and was actually looking to get a Yorkie or Shit Zhu at the time Cardi came into her life via a friend needing a new home for her dog. With slight reluctance Angela met Cardi and quickly fell in love. Angela’s entire life now literally revolves around Cardi.

Cardi herself has a rather sad back story. She was part of a going to be busted, some dogs were taken and others were left behind. Cardi was one of the abandoned dogs, left in a crate in a forest for 3 weeks before being rescued nearly starved to death and pregnant. Upon being rescued Cardi was taken to a vet where her puppies were quickly aborted and she was put into a shelter for adoption. Angela also knows Cardi was fought, or used as a bait dog at least once in her life, due to a number of scars on her body.

Angela has seen Cardi change the minds of numerous people and has helped others overcome their fears of “Pit Bulls” with her quiet patients. Cardi has been a great family dog, wonderful with Angela’s 4 teenagers, especially her special needs daughter.

Cardi is a bit of a miracle dog that walked into Angela’s life by

What You Can Do

Collectively we need to stand behind our dogs. If they can do it to one type, what will stop them from doing it to others?

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Write letters to or request meetings with your local council members and MP about your opposition to BSL and what you would rather see happen.

•

Find local rescues and/or groups that support “Pit Bulls” and add your voice to theirs.

•

Educate yourself on everything “Pit Bull”.

And then do your part to educate others.

Start conversations. Wear apparel that clearly in your community.

many turned her down. Additionally, other clients at her actually make their appointments around Cardi being present or will walk out of the

•

If you own a well behaved “Pit Bull” type dog, get it in the public eye. Too many of the good owners hide. Find other advocates in your community and organize walks. Go to public events together with your dogs. Get visible; care about issues they don’t even know exist.

•

Contact your local media outlets and get “Pit Bulls” some positive publication! Everyone is used to the bad news; let’s get the good news heard too!

•

Everyone has a part to play in ending BSL, so take initiative and start doing yours.

Photos by Jessica Copeland Photography

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waiting until

CHRISTMAS to buy CDs?

About half of the albums I purchase are from over the holidays, since I ask for new discs to add to my library

during Christmas. I always look forward to the day I find out which albums will be the latest additions to my collection on Christmas day. The past few years, however, I find I buy my CDs during Boxing Week sales. This is okay with me, of course-new music is still new music. From September to December, I tend to avoid purchasing albums and add the ones I desire to play on repeat while walking to campus on my wish list.

Finding that perfect carol in time for the holidays Of course, I’m finding this more difficult. Even so, as I think about what I would like to unwrap, I’m wondering if it is just something I could buy myself. It was tough resist just buying the new Taylor Swift or Marianas Trench record prior to Boxing Week. Also, it is easy to find out spoilers for new albums (or anything!) thanks to the internet.

Music fans alike will agree; as fun as it is to receive music as presents, it is also painful to wait for the album at least a month after it was released. Thankfully, there are strategies to make it easier to decide which albums are worth it and can be listened to and/or purchased early.

First, think about which albums you really want. This sounds simple, of course, but it is crucial. Consider why you want the album. If you have supported the band or artist for years and still like their music, then your wish is justified. Are you only curious about the hype surrounding a new album or artist? It would be best to check out a few of their songs beforehand- some acts are overrated, believe me. Next, think about how much you enjoy the artist if you like their music. Decide if they are someone you’d like to see in concert. Of course, albums are a crucial factor when deciding if you’d like to purchase a ticket; musicians tend to base their tours around their latest record. If you are unsure, look at videos of them

performing live. It is always better to hear the musician in concert themselves, but watching recorded concerts or acoustic sessions can help you determine if they are someone you would like to see in concert at all. Still unsure? Read reviews, and be sure to read more than one.

I’ll admit, there are times when one review will make up my mind. Also, you may disagree with the opinion of the critic. However, reviews will give you a sense of what to expect from the album. More reviews will give you the general reception of the album.

There might be a time where you can’t take it anymore and you just want to buy the album, but at the same time you want it for a gift. No problem! Try out Rdio, a website where you can listen to albums for free on your laptop for up to six months. After that, you have to pay a small subscription fee ($4.99 for unlimited web, $9.99 for unlimited web and mobile). Either way, you can check out the album on Rdio or YouTube if you just want to listen.

You could also ask for a giftcard for Christmas to make it easier for your family and friends-this will ensure you can pick what you want without any risks of doubles. Sure, you can just go buy the album yourself beforehand, but it is nice to find a new jewel case underneath the wrapping paper or to buy it yourself with a giftcard.

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UWATERLOO QUIDDITCH Here at the University of Waterloo, there are many different sports teams students can get involved in through Waterloo Athletics. Much to the surprise of many, there is a new sport offered on campus called Quidditch which derives from the fictional book and movie series of Harry Potter. The UWaterloo Quidditch club was founded in the Spring term of 2013 and is led by Waterloo students Nathan Boutilier (President) and Jacquelyn Mayo (Vice-President).

Quidditch is a physically intense game and is essentially a mix between the sports of rugby and dodge ball. The game consists of running around with brooms and trying to get a ball through the hoops to gain points for your team. There is also a person dressed in yellow as the snitch and is trying to avoid being caught by a seeker (one player on both teams). The UWaterloo Quidditch Club not only offers an intramural league, but has its first competitive team called the Waterloo Ridgebacks.

On November 9, the Waterloo Ridgebacks played in the Canadian Quidditch Cup held at Cherry Beach Fields in Toronto. The Waterloo Ridgebacks had to win 2 out of 3 games in order to make it to the next round. The first game was against Carleton University where the Waterloo Ridgebacks lost to the heavily favored Ottawa team.

Things looked up for the second game, however, when the Waterloo Ridgebacks claimed victory against the University of Toronto. There was a lot riding on the third game against Maple Rush (a University of Ottawa team) in order to make it to the next round. Despite the close match, University of Ottawa won by claiming the snitch and gaining enough points to win the game. Despite an upsetting lose, the Waterloo Ridgebacks couldn’t be more proud of their performance. Considering it was the first time Waterloo was represented at the Canadian Cup, Waterloo Ridgebacks couldn’t be more pleased with the outcome. As a result, Waterloo placed 11 out of 16 teams in the Eastern Canadian division.

On November 30, the Waterloo Ridgebacks played in their second tournament in Scarborough, Ontario in the Winterglade Welcoming Tournament. Nine teams from across the province came to the University of Toronto-Scarborough fields to compete in their eastern division. The Waterloo Ridgebacks placed second losing their final game to Guelph. The Waterloo Ridgebacks couldn’t be happier with the outcome. This is the first year Waterloo has had a Quidditch team and the Waterloo Ridgebacks has proven to be a competitive team to be reckoned with.

Quidditch is a fun sport that is physically aggressive and fast paced. As Vice-President of the club, I encourage you to join the UWaterloo Quidditch club by either playing within the intramural league or trying out for the competitive team in the Fall. I hope to see you out on the pitch!

It’s that time of year again where the armchair-GM’s of the hockey world will pick their rosters in a quest to form the best fantasy team for bragging rights, and possibly even a little cash! Here some tips from this hockey writer and fan for shaping a solid team.

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1

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Don’t Stress on a Goalie

Don’t be a Homer!

Don’t fret if you aren’t able to get Henrik Lundqvist or Tuukka Rask. In most fantasy leagues, the only goalie stats that count are wins and shutouts. These stats won’t rack up many points; therefore, goalies don’t really have a factor in the grand scheme of things. If you’re hell-bent on a good goalie though, take the Sharks Antti Niemi. He’s often overlooked, so it will allow you to use earlier picks on forwards, and you’ll still have a good ‘tendy to pick later on.

If you’re a Chicago fan, this might not be a bad idea, but for fans of probable non-playoff bound teams (Calgary, Florida, etc.), try and keep favouritism from taking over your picks.

Even though you’re a Flames fan who may love Sven Baertschi, there are plenty of other players who will put up better stats and are better suited for your fantasy team.

3 League Count Hits?

If your league counts hits as a stat, try and find players who will not only score, but also throw their weight around. Many times, players have more hits than points in a game, or they make up for a bad +/-. My recommendations: L.A’s Dustin Brown or St. Louis’ Chris Stewart.

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Pick Versatile Forwards

Stay Updated

By versatile, I mean forwards who are listed as playing more than one position. If you have five centers, with all of them playing on the same night, and none of them play any other position, then you’re S.O.L. Being able to have multipositional players will allow you to avoid benching potential key players.

There’s nothing worse than making a trade or waiver pickup, and then finding out that player is hurt! Keep up to date on injuries, trades, healthy scratches, and line changes so you can adjust your roster/bench accordingly.

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How to Stay Fit on a Budget

If I had a dollar when anyone has said to me how expensive and time consuming it is to I would have purchased the have wanted for a long time.

I am what most of people call a “health freak” who value healthy lifestyle more than an average person. In fact, I value this aspect in life enough that the purpose of me writing this article is in hopes of being able to inspire at least one reader who can share same values with me.

Before I go ahead and get started on elaborating about about the difference between Human bodies are meant to move and be lean. Healthy does not mean skinny, but appropriate level of energy, good quality and adequate quantity of sleep, and being able to have a balance in looking good in a pair of bikini, but it is about being self-disciplined and in control of one’s life.

There is no argument that buying fresh products always seem to be more expensive than to reach hands towards big bags of chips and cookies or processed frozen food sections. For this matter, let me state an illustration.

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JESSICA COPELAND PHOTOGRAPHY

JESSICA COPELAND PHOTOGRAPHY

JESSICA COPELAND PHOTOGRAPHY

Buying a whole chicken, potatoes and salad to feed four people cost about $20. On the other hand, buying 4 burgers, 4 fries and 4 drinks at McDonalds cost about $30. It is needless to compare the dramatic nutrition difference between the two options. If one tries to make a healthier option and pick Subway over McDonalds, 4 foot long sandwiches and 4 drinks cost at least about $35. Even with healthier choice, nutrition value for home cooked meal is still higher.

The bottom line is, it is in fact more financially efficient to purchase fresh produce than eating quick and cheap outside.

Now that I established how efficient it is to purchase fresh produce, I would like to share a few tricks when grocery shopping and home cooking. The most important trick is to purchase all produce items in season. During summer, berry prices basically cut into half. During fall and winter, root vegetable prices get cut into half as well.

This is a lot more efficient than to purchase frozen products that are not in season. Moreover, everything tastes significantly more flavourful when it is in season. Second trick

is to always have a weekly meal plan and write a list before going to grocery shopping. Coming from personal experiences, this saved me tremendous amount of unnecessary purchases and even time at the end of the day. Having things on hand helps me to stop creating excuses for not cooking and be more excited about it. The last trick is to cook things in bulk and freezing them after dividing into proper portions. As a student, I am always on the go and in a time crunch, and learning how to cook large casseroles and family meals saved me every time I was too tired to cook or did not have enough time to cook.

In terms of working out, going to gym is not the only option. I have had a number of successes with homework videos and they are especially great for people who are new at working out. Home workout videos give users timeline, so they take the boredom off the workout and let users to adjust routines and intensities depending on their own level better than gym equipments do. I would recommend yoga and Pilates combined with cardio workout videos for those who

EMMA SMITH

are new at exercising in order to increase flexibility and getting used to heart pumping.

I can go so much longer and detailed about what to buy, what to cook and what workout to do but due to the limited number of pages I have, I must wrap up this article.

However, before I finish, I would like to emphasize that I am neither a nutritionist nor a personal trainer but just a university student taking public accounting as the major.

This means I am just an average person, who has experienced dramatic change in life ever since I decided to lead a healthy and fit lifestyle. Choosing this lifestyle has given me not only better looking appearance but also time management skills, self-discipline and better ways to cope with stress.

- Olivia Lennox

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AN OD TO TH E SINGL E E LIFE

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Let me jus little discla t preface im relatio nship er. Rega this with rdles public a status a at th s of my releva tion, this e t a n one’s t; I didn’t w rticle is s ime of till hig for all ri h of the te it for my self! T ly newly his the si single ng peop abou le people le t how who n lucky they a eed remind re! ing So m uch o f our life is I think dedic s ated and e ome peo to p n l have joy their s e forget to in it. s but m I don’t kno gle lives w it back w y h when conversa about any ile they tions one e I’m si with m ls ngle b how m y mot e, a y s i c l ove li a l h l anyon y er bo fe is, e yet and i il down to (love f I’m you to o mum seeing Mothe r !). being -daughter s r to tell ingle is aw elationship you w esom e, and aside, hy.

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new. ng completely hi et m so t ar st time to e back to ct time to com fe er p e th is ho Now up, or explore w ak re -b re p e er w who you now. you want to be bed wl all over your ra sp ly al fin n You ca , you can ’s not your thing at th if r, O n! ai t those ag best thing abou e Th s. ow ill p fill it with over you, or don’t snore, roll ey th at th is s of the pillow ns in the middle tio ec er s ou ne ady get sponta comfortable, re d an , ill st ay st sh with night. They just You can be selfi o. d to t an w u yo others. for whatever with significant h uc m so t no pillows, off down. Go, get u yo g in ld ho g t the It’s one less strin asible). I spen fe (if re lo p ex s about your ass and had zero qualm d an nd la e ng E summer in lationship. It mad re e nc ta is d ng lo n also trying to work a to make (and it ca er si ea h uc m d the decision so happy that I ha so I’m ). ex an er ld for aid in getting ov around the wor ay lfw ha o g to , met some the opportunity know my family to ot g ly al If re I 4 months. e some money. ad m en ev d an s, t I would amazing friend re whether or no su t no I’m , le elf, I wasn’t sing n it presented its he w ty ni tu or p op Added have taken that t on so much. ou d se is m ve is pretty and I would ha e from England op ur E in g lin el t that bonus: trav British passpor e th on sy ea er cheap, and sup I also have. preciate of reasons to ap t lis ck ui q a it, nds!

There you have d enjoy it my frie an t ou o G e. lif your single

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I still don’t know

what I want to do with my life!

Along with experimentation and learning, the golden years of being twenty something, usually comes with a reluctance to commit fully to a career and family or in other words; “ the big people stuff ”.

HR Strategies for Young Professionals in their Career adventures By: Nicole Papp

A career. That is the most probable

reason a student is studying at a post secondary institution. Many of us remember the statement “when I grow up I want to be…” How many times has this changed? For some of the lucky ones, this may have remained concrete throughout.

However, for most, the path to career-dom is a road with many questions, doubts, and uncertainty. A great way to mitigate this feeling is to take some personal action towards understanding what direction you could possibly go in for a career.

The years of being a student are a time for experimenting and learning. Many students seem to always say, “I still don’t know what I want to do with my life,” during their third or fourth year. Volunteering, getting involved, attending conferences, and networking are all great strategies for exploring a possible career calling. The best part of these strategies is that you get to try on so many different hats and learn about possible options, without the commitment factor.

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A plan of action is the primary step in exploring what the heck you could possibly do to make cash for yourself while you’re an adult. Start with thinking what you actually like. Do you enjoy planning events, playing around with numbers, or building computers? Simply brainstorming about the things that drive you and make you happy brings you one step closer to understanding the best choice for you.

Once you have pinpointed whether you simply enjoy helping others or really like videogames, its time to explore how you can test-drive this enjoyment. Universities have many opportunities open to their own students. Start with the student government organization. It is their job to offer development opportunities for their undergraduates- use it! Check out their websites and social media as there is bound to be a posting or opportunity that will be suited to you. Search the clubs listings, as there are many diverse clubs available to broaden your horizons and experiences.

If you like cheese as a random example, you will not only join the cheese club that may be in existence, but you can try your hand in many roles that would be similar to those in a given company. Roles can interest, make one!

Now you have become better connected to the university atmosphere, so you can begin to branch out into your community.

It is as simple as doing a Google search with key words of what you like, and a possible role. For example, “volunteer

Websites such as conferencealerts.com and your own university will have postings of conferences that are coming up based on your own passion. When attending a conference, always dress the part. If you are attending a gaming convention wear your favorite character

role.” The key is to specify short term, intern, student or volunteer, before a rolethis brings up many opportunities that organizations are truly in need of. The idea of volunteering doesn’t always jive with everyone, since it is essentially “free labor”, but in order to get your foot in the door and make valuable connectionssometimes that’s what it takes. The networking doesn’t end there however.

There are always project-based options as well. Companies such as uIntuition, employ project-based alternatives for students. uIntuition is a platform that represents and connects talented post-secondary students with various opportunities. Opportunities offered to students are in two sectors; the Academic and the Creative. The beauty of companies like uIntuition, is that you can really work on something you are passionate about, but can get paid to do it.

conference, always look up the dress code and come dressed neat and presentable. The key is to look prepared and approachable at the same time. You will be in your own element so smile and chat about what it is you love or are exploring and learning about.

Attending networking events and conferences is also another great way to make connections and try to get involved. C3 for example, is a student run conference which offers many opportunities to be a part of the executive team as well as attend with many valuable networking opportunities- no matter if you are business savvy or not.

uIntuition is a platform that represents and connects talented post-secondary students with various opportunities.

In the end, what it really comes down to is understanding yourself and being true to what you love and enjoy. Then you add a little mix of research skills, networking, networking and networking and there you have it- a recipe that will at least get you in the right step for career development. It is important to be aware that with a bit of creativity, it is possible to mix plausible career options with your passions; all it takes is a bit of determination.

The founding of uIntuition

Fuelled on Drive, Commitment and Creativity

By: Nicole Papp Passion, drive and an “aha” moment are what drove uIntuition to be founded as a company. Each executive member brought their own joys and reasons why they wanted to be involved with a company that helps students find jobs and career development opportunities, which was the foundation of uIntuition. We are able to understand the true problem we are trying to fix because each member of the company has been in the same paradoxical cycle of needing experience to find a job and needing a job to find experience.

You have to start somewhere, but that doesn’t always mean that it has to be at the bottom of the food chain. How does a student actually make money while doing something they truly love?

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Is that even a possibility in today’s competitive employment world- driven by degrees, titles and credentials?

Yes. It is a very viable option for a student who would like to make a little extra spending money or has bills to pay o . uIntuition is a platform that brings talented and driven students together with customers seeking out their expertise in the form of services. Many students struggle with finding a job, and the ones that do usually only get paid minimum wage and do not receive true satisfaction out of their job. That is the problem uIntuition seeks to solve. It is important for us as a company to o er students an opportunity to do what they enjoy because we know it’s possible. Talents can range from tutoring a specific subject such as Photoshop in a class or one on one setting, to design, photography, music and DJing. The versatility of the talents we cater to allows for packaged services to our customers.

These packages can result in teams of talent, depending on what type of project is being worked on. Team work is an essential skill to have, along with a professional business demeanor, both of which uIntuition upholds in their student talent.The networking opportunities o ered to talent is also amazing and invaluable. The list of benefits is endless.

On the customer’s side, we o er extremely professional services at not-so-professional The talent we hire is so passionate about what they do, that it reflects through their work. It is important to them that the customer is happy with the finished product, whether it is a class or a full marketing package because that just means more opportunities for them, because they are hungry for experience.

Packages can range from logo design, web page design, video animation, and print media all the way to a photography class. The professional quality for the unbeatable price is a perk to many of uIntuition’s current customers. uIntuition was founded by the two cofounders: Melissa and Mike as a result of knowing each other since grade elven. Melissa and Mike worked together and built a strong connection on a business, and friendship level.

Our drive and determination brought us together and just as importantly, we really got the crux of the career problem that many students experience. I joined the uIntuition executive team shortly after the conference and realized that all three of us had many things in common; the three underlying fundamentals were drive, commitment and creativity.

We built the company from the ground up together. As young entrepreneurs, it would not be right to say there haven’t been learning experiences. When it all comes down to it though, we are all in it to learn, develop and build our futures.

The uIntuition Executive TeamClockwise: Michal Ulman- EVP and Co-Founder, Nicole PappCOO, Aqsa Zubair- CFO, Melissa Anne Morgan- CEO, Co-founder

For more information visit www.uIntuition.com or email info@uIntuition.com

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Emma, who took this lovely photo and is in Environmental Studies, likes to go for walks on her weekends to practice her photography and pursue her passions.

MAKING PASSION A PART OF YOUR WEEKEND for less than you might think

Author: Krystin Scheels Photo: Emma Smith

There are few people who don’t enjoy the weekends when they roll around every week, but many have a hard time finding things to do with their free time, especially if they’re watching their budget. No matter what your passion is, your community will always have something to offer by way of inexpensive weekend activities, as long as you’re willing to look. As we don’t always have the time to scour event listings for fun things to do, I’ve put together a couple of my favourite activities for you to try this winter.

If you like…the Outdoors: Getting outdoors on a wooded trail is always a great way to spend a day, and no matter where you are there is usually at least one trail can be accessible by foot, by transit, or by car. These trails are an excellent way to get outdoors, and can be the host of many different sights throughout the year. In the winter months, you may even want to investigate snowshoe rentals for a fun, different way to get outdoors.

If you have more of a taste for adventure, another great way to get out, especially in the winter, is to investigate some local or nearby ski hills. Many hills are open for mountain biking in the summer as well as skiing in the winter, and most offer inexpensive mid-week rates for the budget- conscious adventurer.

If you like…Arts & Crafts: Even if you’re not looking to spend any money, arts and crafts fairs make a great destination for a day or a weekend. Especially around the holidays, you can find dozens of stores and markets showcasing interesting, unique pieces. Most of these fairs are free to enter, and can offer hours of interesting sights. You may even get some ideas for projects you can do at home!

If you like…Architecture and Design: If your passion is building design, or if you’re the kind of person who appreciates what goes into architectural design, there are limitless possibilities for enjoying great building design, one of the more interesting being the Doors Open programs many cities run at some point during the year. While this mostly applies to larger cities, or those with vibrant urban life and/or interesting history, if your town doesn’t run one, it is usually easy to get somewhere that does by transit or by carpool with a bunch of friends. These events are exactly what they appear to be – days or weekends when many private buildings around the city open their doors to the public, allowing them to explore some of the interesting features of the building’s interior that are not visible from outside. If you are in a town without one of these events, or

you just want something easy to do any weekend of the year, an architectural “walking tour” is always easy, pocketbook friendly, and fun! Stroll around an interesting part of your city, pick out interesting, funky features of some local buildings, and see how much your town can surprise you!

If you like…Music: Music is by far one of the passions that is easiest to nurture in any city. From browsing record stores to listening to street performers to visiting a local music festival, music is everywhere for you to enjoy. One of the things music lovers don’t often investigate, however, is a membership with local music-centered groups. Many cities have genre-specific groups of passionate individuals who are always looking for new members. Often memberships are inexpensive – or free if you’re willing to do some volunteer work. Many put out newsletters with interesting musical facts, and most will put on events with reduced prices for members – or will have recommendations of great ways to spend your weekends with the music you love!

If you like…Writing or Literature: Like music, literature is everywhere. Browsing local used book stores is a great way to spend a couple of hours, and you can often find inexpensive treasures if you look hard enough! A lot of these stores also often have readings or signings by lesser known authors, with admission oftentimes only the price of a book.

Even if a reading is by an author you’ve never heard of, it’s a great way to find new and exciting books and genres. If you’re simply craving a relaxing atmosphere with people of similar interests, a book club is always fun – and free!

Whatever your passion is, you can always find some way to make it a part of your life, be it through creating something that expresses it or simply working it into your week. Hopefully some of these fun weekend activities will get you out on the streets doing what you love, or at least meeting others who love it as much as you do.

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