RADIX The University of Guelph-Humber
Tuesday October 13, 2009
THE
EDGE
REACHING OUT TO STUDENTS The Humber Pride Club strives for recognition
HANG ON FOR UPCOMING EVENTS!
DAYNA BRUBAKER
Amazing
The Humber Pride Club that has been a part of the Humber North community for five years has been on the down low for some time, with sparse membership and little activity. Formed as the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgendered (LGBT) Club, the group developed attendance that reached a couple of dozen campus students at one point, but saw membership dropping in the last couple of years. “At the end of last year, it was pretty much just [one other member] and I going to meetings on a regular basis” says Ben Rodgers, Humber Students’ Federation Vice President of Campus Life at Humber North. Stephanie Butler is the current president of the Humber Pride Club, and attributes past low turnout to a lack of promotion and visibility within the school. “We had no advertising and got sanctioned by HSF late in the year” says Butler. She also allows, however, that being out in school isn’t easy for everyone, particularly students from smaller communities outside Toronto where gay pride is not the theme of major annual public celebrations. “I don’t feel there is intolerance on the campus,” says Butler, a third-year Media Studies student and a managing editor for this publication [Butler did not assign or handle this article]. “But I feel it is buried and not talked about as openly.” That, she believes, is about to change. Promoting the slogan “Come out, come out, wherever you are,” Humber Pride will kick off its renewal with a free barbeque in the Humber North amphitheatre on October 19. Paralegal Studies student Kristin Ellerby said, “I think it’s a fantastic idea. A club like that really lets people
Race HSF event Oct. 14
Creative Festival Oct. 16-18 Metro Convention Centre, South Building
Psychic fair HSF event Oct. 21
Planet In Focus Film Festival Oct. 21-25
International Festival of Authors Oct. 21-31
National Women’s Show Oct. 23-25 Metro Convention Centre,
Dayna Brubaker
Pride - continued pg 5
Members of the Humber Pride Club rally around a flag that was flown during Pride Week this summer.
NEWS
ARTS
LIFE
South Building.
Halloween Hoopla GHSA event Oct. 29
News 2 Biz/Tech 3 A&E 4 Life 5 Editorial 7 Sports 8
SPORTS
NEWS 2
Guelph-Humber
TUESDAY OCTOBER 13, 2009
RADIX
Kinesiology program muscles forward One year later, rapid growth spurt excites students LINDSAY BISHOP After only one year, the Kinesiology program has stretched its legs, worked out its growing pains and settled in as part of Guelph-Humber’s community. All four years of the program are now running and increasing enrollment is setting the pace for future development. Elaine Popp, Kinesiology Program Head, says she never imagined that the program would have such a rapid growth spurt. “It has become very popular, very quickly, we’re very excited,” she said. “There are currently three labs in the C-wing that the Kin students have access to, one lab in the J-wing, and two labs at University of Guelph. There are two different avenues into the program. One consists of students coming directly from high school. The other derives from Ontario high affinity diploma programs. Students who graduate out of the two-year Fitness and Health Promotion diploma program, with a minimum GPA of 75 per cent, from any of the 12 colleges in the province are eligible to apply for a continuation of studies in Kinesiology. Deanna Franceschetti, a second year Kinesiology student
Lindsay Bishop
Brian Zorgel checks Michelle Commandant’s blood pressure. Both are second-year Kinesiology students at GH.
and Guelph-Humber Student Association (GHSA) program rep, was one of the students who came directly from high school. She says her attraction to GH was the small class sizes coupled with the opportunity to get to know her peers and professors better. She thinks GH’s Kinesiology program is popular because of its joint degree-diploma, adding that it can open a lot of doors by combining college and university. Popp says the increase in enrollment is a testament to the growing popularity of the pro-
gram. “We wanted to take 65 students into year one and last year we took 72-73 and this year we took 73 again,” she says. Krissy Carlton, a second year Kinesiology student and the GHSA president, agrees that the joint degree-diploma has a lot to do with high enrollment, along with the experience of working in a cadaver lab. While working at the Ontario University Fair, it was evident that the growth would continue as she spoke to prospective Kinesiology students. “I talked non-
stop. There were so many kids there.” Meanwhile, the upper years have been filled by students who have completed the summer bridge semester. Popp describes this as an “academically intensive” semester that allows graduates of Fitness Health and Promotion to enter the third year of the program. “Kinesiology is a very popular field right now. Health issues are getting a lot of press in the news these days,” Popp says. Kinesiology isn’t just for your
gym teacher anymore. With the proper certifications, a graduate can work as an ergonomist, fitness appraiser, personal trainer or in physical rehabilitation. Popp explains that not only are there a lot of job opportunities, but there is a wide variety as well. Some students will choose to focus on working in the commercial corporate side, which includes personal trainers, while others will elect to work in a clinic setting such as cardiac rehabilitation or in a hospital setting. Carlton is considering postgraduate studies at a chiropractic college, while she says her classmates are interested in sports medicine, physiotherapy or even medical school. “You can go so many places with it,” she says. Although the program is in its infancy, the Kinesiology students are taking big steps to become part of the GH community. “Now look, the president of the GHSA is a Kin student, one of the VPs of the GHSA is a Kinesiology student, there are three other GHSA members that are all Kinesiology students. So it is like we’re taking over,” says Popp. The growth of the Kinesiology program is not only in the increased enrollment. Renovations are underway to expand the number of labs available for students. As of January, the A-wing in Humber College will house two new labs including a high performance centre and a group exercise studio.
New electives fortify slim pickings Student
Centre nears completion
ANDRENE STERLING New electives have arrived at G u el p h - Hu m b e r, i m p r ov i n g a traditionally slender field of choices at the school. Popular Music, Desire and Discontent, and Classical Mythology are among the six new electives being offered at GH, whose combined diploma-degree programs leave less room for electives than at most universities. Dolly Birdi, a third year Business student is taking Introduction to Classical Culture, one of the new electives being offered this semester. “Introduction to Classical Culture gives you an amazing insight on the modern world today compared to ancient times, and how similar everything is,” Birdi said. “It’s an amazing course.” Although Birdi has a positive outlook on the course, she feels there is still not a lot of variety of electives to choose from. “I have taken a few electives, and now that I am heading into my final year soon, I feel that none of the electives that are left interest me,” says Birdi. Sarah Lang, a third year Early Childhood (ECE) student, said she also believes work still needs to be done on GH electives. “I don’t think the electives at GH
ALYSSA OUELLETTE
Humber students catch up on readings from new electives.
are very exciting,” said Lang. The main campus in Guelph offers electives ranging from Art History to European Studies. GH students can take these kind of University of Guelph electives during the summer or after completing program requirements. GH students cannot be registered in GH courses and courses at Guelph at the same time. Leah Murdock, the Manager of Advising and Registration at Guelph-Humber, explains why. “Guelph-Humber and Guelph share the same information system, and it can lead to great confusion, making it impossible to accurately track student transgression.” GH students may also take
Andrene Sterling
electives at universities other than Guelph. Students deciding to do this need to apply for a letter of permission. Meanwhile, students can look forward to the new Independent Study course: International Money Matters, being offered at GH Spring 2010 as an elective. This new elective will give students an opportunity to study abroad in London, England. “It’s an exiting opportunity for students. We are trying to make it an affordable international experience,” said Julie Gustavel, GH Manager of Academic Services. For more information on the London elective, contact julie. gustavel@guelphhumber.ca.
Renovations at the Humber College Student Centre are nearly complete after continuous work since last May. The work will have cost $3.5 million by completion, said Shugufa Kaker, Humber Student Federation’s President. “The goal was to make the Student Centre a place where students could enjoy themselves,” she said. “As the number of students at Humber increases, we have to make sure we are keeping up with the growth.” Extensive renovations have been made both to the Student Centre and adjoining cafeteria. Kaker says there is now a built-in stage area for student events and a projection screen for movies. The second floor of the expanded space serves as a balcony and includes study areas, a lounge and a pharmacy. Alex Kerr, a second year film and television production student at Humber says she visits the Student Centre at least once a day. “I have had a Booster Juice every day since school started. The Student Centre looks a lot better and there are more options
Alyssa Ouellette
Extensive renovations have been made at the Humber cafeteria.
for food now. It’s not as hectic and the lines are a bit more organized. Before I’d wait half an hour before I even got to the front.” Jonathan Zarb, a fourth year business student at Guelph-Humber, was critical of the decor in the revamped facility. “It looks really plain” he said. “Before, it was old, but it had a lot more character. Now it is just plain walls and concrete.” Zarb suggested asking Image Arts students to hang some of their photography on the walls. Kaker, meanwhile, offers assurances that HSF does have plans to brighten the renovated centre. “The student work that we hang in the Student Centre will be banners advertising events and services we are trying to publicize to our students,” she said. Amenities at the Centre are available to GH students.
TUESDAY OCTOBER 13, 2009
Guelph-Humber
RADIX
3 NEWS/BIZ/TECH
Digital Communications has arrived New Media Studies stream has students excited MATTHEW KING Media Studies has gone digital; Digital communications joins journalism, public relations and Image Arts this year. Students will become experts looking into film, video and the internet as their specialization. Ed Wright, Head of Media Studies said the new stream was created because “faculty is always watching the business and see the demand for the skills.” University of Guelph-Humber professor Stuart Robertson explained that if two people apply for a job and one applicant has multi-media skills they have an edge over other less knowledgeable applicants This year’s incoming media class will be the first who are offered Digital Communications as a specialization. In the first two years students will study a broad variety of media courses, according to Wright. After students choose their specialization in third year they will take a more narrow selection of courses developing skills specific to their area of interest. Jillian Barbara, a first year media student, says she is excited at the chance to be one of the first students to choose digital communication as her specialization. “I like how I can do photography but I also learn about film. I think there will be more job op-
Matthew King
“I think there will be more job opportunities for me [with Digital Communications] as I will have a better skill set” says Jillian Barbara, first-year media studies student.
portunities for me as I will have a better skill set,” says Barbara. Barbara said her first experience with the media field came when she went to work with her father in grade 9. They had one room where they were doing everything related to the media field according to Barbara. Faculty will use the next two
years to develop the curriculum. It also gives students a chance to make up their mind. Previously Media Students chose their specialization in second semester. Second year Public Relations student, Candice Reggi said “I think second semester is too soon to choose. I think the change will
definitely affect a majority of the students’ choices.” Current media students are say they are surprised about the new stream. Reggi said she always knew she wanted to go into Public Relations but thinks the new digital communication stream is a great idea. “From what I have heard
it sounds quite interesting,” She said. Reggi went on to say “It might have made my decision a little tougher but it wouldn’t have changed anything, I was set on PR.” As Ed Wright said “we are always looking to expand and present opportunities to our students.”
iPhone in competition with other applications PEJA BULATOVIC For the first time since its release, the Apple iPhone is looking vulnerable. With more practical options becoming available - including BlackBerry and Android devices – application developers are showing unease, saying they invest weeks of time and money in development only to have their application summarily rejected. “There’s no point in programming apps for Apple,” says Josh Labrecque, a fourth-year Computer Science student at GuelphHumber and aspiring developer. ”Even though they say they welcome all apps, they really don’t.” Apple’s infamous rejection process has even gained attention from the US government. The Federal Communications Commission is currently investigating Apple’s unexplained rejection of a proposed Google application for the iPhone. Google is becoming a direct competitor to Apple and so the situation is very controversial. This also affects consumers
who feel that they should be allowed to decide which applications they want to use. “I definitely care,” said iPhone-owner Kyle Stewart, “I would definitely like to have that freedom.” Despite these controversies, developers continue to create applications for the iPhone platform. The obvious draw is Apple’s large market share. However, Labrecque believes that even that is losing its appeal to young programmers. “The App Store for Apple already has something like 70, 000 apps, the majority of them useless. It’s better to work in an environment where everything isn’t done.” This refers to competing smartphone companies, specifically RIM’s BlackBerry platform. However, the BlackBerry has its own limitations. The most glaring obstacle for developers designing BlackBerry apps is the extreme differeces between RIM’s devices; different model BlackBerrys vary greatly in screen-size, hardware capabili-
Peja Bulatovic
“The [iPhone] Apps store already has something like 70,000 apps, the majority of them are useless,” says Josh Labrecque, a Guelph-Humber computer science student. Apple currently has a large market share.
ties, and use of touchscreens or traditional keys. A third option is emerging. About a year ago, the Android operating system was introduced. Android is a joint project between many of the world’s most prominent cellphone producers and spearheaded by Google. The system is completely open-source, meaning the code is available to anyone and the application submission process is almost without restriction.
Android faces issues of its own. To date, only two phones are available in Canada which run Android, the HTC Dream and the HTC Magic. Several more Android phones are expected by 2010 including entries by Motorola and Samsung. Like Blackberry, there is no standard for the specifications of the actual devices. Stewart says he would consider switching to an opensource phone if there was hardware available that could match the iPhone.
The iPhone, he believes, “just has more features. I found the iPhone is best for sensitivity and control [but] I would obviously go for an update. The smartphone landscape will likely be reshaped in the final months of 2009. With Android preparing to face off headto-head with the iPhone, and Microsoft soon releasing their latest iteration of Windows Mobile, it is likely that Apple will have some serious competition. In order for Android to reach a significant market share, Google will have to offer a device as feature-filled and attractive as the iPhone. For Apple, it will mean relaxing on their application restrictions or they could face a migration of programmers leaving their platform for the competition. Whatever the result, industry observers remark, corporate competition always results in benefits for the consumer and the developers. For prospective buyers, that should mean better features, lower prices and more options.
A&E 4
Guelph-Humber
TUESDAY OCTOBER 13, 2009
RADIX Nuit Blanche a success four years running BRENDAN DAVIS
Samantha Stevens
Canadian graffiti artists collaborate on a mural at the AGO during Nuit Blanche.
TTC fails on Nuit Blanche TYLER MUNRO ARTS EDITOR
N
ot all facets of Nuit Blanche—Toronto’s white night—were met with glowing reviews. Like last year’s event, the Toronto Transit Commission took special interest in the all-night art extravaganza. In keeping with last year, their interest worked better in theory than practice. Claiming to be “the better way to see Nuit Blanche,” the TTC extended subway service by five and a half hours from 1:30 a.m. until seven in the morning. The intent was there. Efficiency and reliability were not. On paper, the Nuit Blanche Day Pass was a great idea. For only $9, groups of up to six customers (maximum two adults) could travel all through the night, riding the rocket between each of the event’s three zones. It was supposed to be convenient. It wasn’t. Long wait times were only the kicker. As groups amassed, buses and streetcars filled up fast when they finally arrived. They looked like
tin cans packed tightly with sardine-like art aficionados. That’s because the service was extended, but not increased. Buses ran later to account for the event’s curfew, but there weren’t enough of them to serve the larger crowds. The biggest problem, however, came from the subway’s service extension. As anyone who’s ever dealt with such an idea during previous years—or even on New Year’s—knows, this wasn’t a surprise. While it was nice to have the option of taking the subway into the wee hours of the morning, it came off as more of a novelty than a convenience. Again, the wait times were an issue. Ryan McLean, a visitor that night who said he had to work early the following (or same) morning, claimed to have waited on the eastbound subway platform at Bloor over an hour. I felt this frustration first hand. Heading westbound, I arrived at Bloor station around 2:30 a.m. The subway showed up close to 3 a.m. It wasn’t the wait that killed me, but the realization that the subway service only extended as far as Keele station. The an-
Toronto’s coffin culture STEPHANIE BUTLER The vampire legend often conjures images of old-world European cities. Readers of Dracula and watchers of Underworld have come to expect spindly church towers, gargoyles crusted with lichen, and crumbled stone buildings. Today, however, fictional vampires are known to haunt such North American locales as New Orleans (Anne Rice’s novels) and Forks, Washington (Twilight). Toronto, which has a rich and haunting history and culture, mixes old and new architecture
to create a curious blend of eras but not one that would appear to suit the vampire esthetic. In an article for Where Toronto, University of Toronto professor of architecture Lawrence Richards says the city doesn’t “have the historical or cultural continuity, let alone the elegant architecture that [European] cities have. Frankly, Toronto, is a new, brash, rag-tag place—a big mix of periods and styles.” Yet despite the mixed setting, Toronto is proving fertile ground for undead chic. Toronto has played host to gothic bars and clubs, a lively goth music scene, and two vam-
Tyler Munro
D.A. Therrien’s “Four Letter Word Machine” was shown at Toronto’s City Hall on Oct. 3 as a part of the fourth-annual Nuit Blanche.
nouncement was met by sighs and groans from bemoaned, oftintoxicated passengers. While droves of cranky pedestrians hailed themselves a safe cab-ride home from the corner of Keele and Bloor, I couldn’t
help but wonder what became of those who couldn’t afford such luxuries—cab fare for a trip towards Kipling Station could cost more than $30. Other than frustration, I guess we’ll never know.
pire television shows. Sanctuary: the Vampire Sex Bar opened its doors to the nighttime crowd in 1992 mid-way through the 90s goth movement. The bar briefly enforced a gothic dress-code. This bar attracted clientele from the gothic and industrial subcultures and ran successfully until June 2000. In the aftermath of the 1999 Columbine shooting, goth culture was banished to the shadows and the bar’s clientele decreased. Sanctuary was one of many clubs during the ‘90s that showcased goth and vampire-inspired music. Vampire Beach Babes is one of the most successful experi-
mental vampire bands to come out of the Toronto scene. The band’s website describes their style as “gothabilly,” having evolved from “twilight surf music” to more somber “goth rock.” It is not just bands, but television shows that display the vampire culture. Forever Knight, a series that aired in the ‘90s , stars Geraint Wyn Davies as Nicholas Knight, an 800-year-old vampire turned Toronto cop. The series chronicles Knight’s attempts to atone for his sins and reclaim his humanity by working as a homicide detective. The series ran three seasons on CBS before being cancelled in 1996.
On October 3rd, from sundown to sunrise, it was impossible to find room to walk on the city’s streets. Four years in, Nuit Blanche has become one of the most anticipated events of the year for Torontonians and an estimated 100,000 visitors from beyond. It turned the streets into canvases for contemporary art as over one million onlookers ventured into downtown Toronto. Featuring 130 exhibits by close to 500 artists, Nuit Blanche was broken into three zones that stretched through the heart of the city. This left patrons with plenty to see and do. A visitor to Zone A around city hall, for example, may have experienced D. A. Therrien’s “Four Letter Word Machine” or walked down a very crowded Bay Street, lining up for one of the many rides at the Wild Ride exhibit. Jason Lacuna, 26, has attended the event each of its four years. “I come out every year, it’s an amazing experience being able to interact with the exhibits,” he added. Nuit Blanche doesn’t just attract Torontonians; it also attracts tourists from all over North America. Brandon Jennings, 38, of Boston, said, “This is great. They don’t have stuff like this in the U.S. I’m jealous.” (Nuit Blanche is held in a number of cities worldwide, including several in the U.S.) Attracting millions of dollars in spending, the event continues to evolve and reflect the talent and vision of Canadian and international artists.
2007’s Blood Ties was also set in Toronto. The 22-episode series starred Torontonian Christina Cox as Vicki Nelson, a private detective who teams up with vampire Henry Fitzroy to solve supernatural crimes. Fitzroy, played by Mississauga-born Kyle Schmid, is a 480-year-old vampire and the illegitimate heir of Henry VIII. Both television shows combine vampirism and crime in a decidedly Canadian mix of old-world meets new reality culture. The theme of ‘culture-clash’ is a continuous one in Canadian media production, reflecting the ideology of a country that struggles with an identity that is both modern and historical.
TUESDAY OCTOBER 13, 2009
5 A&E/LIFE
Guelph-Humber
RADIX
Jaywalkers risk their lives KELLY SCOTT Students at Guelph Humber risk injury or worse every day by jaywalking to get from the bus to school, even though they have the option to walk to either of two sets of lights to cross the street safely. The campus ‘A’ entrance is located between lots 5 and 6. Students are constantly seen coming and going from the bus stop. Many cars use this same route to enter the school’s parking lots. There is a crosswalk closer to the Humber entrances, which is out of the way for Guelph Humber students. Megan Teeter, a first year Criminal Justice student at Guelph Humber, drives to school and is always watching out for jaywalkers. Teeter said that she’s had some people cut across the road in front of her on her way into the parking lots. Having a crosswalk at the ‘A’ entrance may create a more controlled environment for drivers and pedestrians, she added. There may not be any immediate danger to students crossing without a crosswalk but it is still a neglected high risk area. Yet not everyone believes that a crosswalk would benefit the
Adam Mirani
A Guelph-Humber student jaywalks across Humber College Boulevard.
school. “People walk wherever and whenever they want,” says third year Criminal Justice student, Mike Bronsveld, indicating that a crosswalk would be largely ignored. Bronsveld has also encountered jaywalkers,but has never come close to hitting any. Benefits of getting a cross-
walk at the ‘A’ entrance include assuring student safety by eliminating jaywalking and controlling traffic. Conversely, a crosswalk may create traffic congestion for drivers. It also might be a costly project and drivers could become frustrated with having to wait for pedestrians. CITY-TV reported that in
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(cont. from pg.1) around campus know that it’s alright to be yourself whether you’re gay, straight, bi or whatever.” Ramzi Jibril, a Humber Business Administration student, joined the club this year. “Having a club like this allows for greater diversity and helps people understand one another,” said Jibril. Humber Pride is currently updating a Positive Space campaign to increase awareness of difference in sexual orientation and make an inclusive and welcoming community for everyone on campus. Beyond this, Butler said that she wants to make Humber a very gay friendly community. She intends on starting a campaign against the phrase “that’s so gay”. “I don’t want the word gay to be synonymous with bad or stupid. I want to teach people why it’s discriminating to say ‘that’s so gay’” says Butler. The club is planning such activities as a Mardi Gras Night, a drag show and participating in the annual Toronto Pride Parade this summer.
polytechnic
09/10 Y THURSDA 15, 2009 R ter OCTOBpEus • Room: 7th Semes
2006, 20 pedestrians were killed in Toronto, according to the Toronto Police and Toronto Transportation Services. With crowds of Guelph Humber students seen boarding buses every day along Humber College Boulevard, students like Teeter feel that the safety of students on campus is not addressed.
Pride
Business | Community Services | Health | Hospitality | Media | Technology | The Arts
Dayna Brubaker
Business prof Sworden had his first solo show at Guelph-Humber art gallery.
The business of art DAYNA BRUBAKER Philip Sworden, a Business professor at Humber College, found his creative outlet in the beauty of the Canadian outback. Sworden has always dabbled in art but only started taking it seriously in the last three years. His paintings are landscapes of northern Ontario. “When people see my paintings, I want them to know that it’s Canada. I want them to be able to experience how beautiful the north of Ontario is”, said Sworden. The exhibit in the GuelphHumber atrium, which ended earlier this month, marked a first for the seasoned artist. “I’ve been in a lot of art shows, but I’ve never done one of just my work. This [was] my first one and I’m really pleased with it.” Sworden said. The GH gallery is not usually
open for student use. It serves as a classroom of sorts for senior Public Relations and Business students. But thanks to the fourth-year Business Administration students, Sworden landed a two-week exhibit. All he had to do was ask. “Prof. Riccio runs an event management course. I asked him if he could put on an art show and he got his students to put it on.” Sworden got “positive responses which is great. I’ve worked really hard to do a show of just my work.” While getting to display his work is a great honour for Sworden, he aims for his work to resonate with the audience. “When people see my paintings, I want them to be taken to a nice place and really see how beautiful this country is and can be. Giving students a chance to see Canadian art was one of my goals with this showing.”
LIFE 6
TUESDAY OCTOBER 13, 2009
Guelph-Humber
RADIX
Budget dating ideas for students No money needn’t mean no dates LAURA PIEDADE
Dating is fun and exciting, but these days it can also be expensive. After paying for tuition, textbooks and basic living costs, many students are finding themselves strapped for cash. Although a tight budget can be frustrating, it doesn’t mean students have to stop dating. Here are some date ideas that are so inexpensive that you can enjoy a few of them in one day. Instead of splurging on an expensive dinner, start by enjoying a quiet breakfast or lunch with your companion. This is a great alternative for those who enjoy going out every once in a while but don’t want to over-spend. Many restaurants offer half priced lunch menus or two-forone deals. Also, restaurants are a lot calmer in the afternoon hours. Make an impression by going out for a history or art lesson. Many museums offer half priced tickets after certain hours or on specific days. For example, the Royal Ontario Museum offers general admission for free on Wednesdays between 4:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. Free admission is also offered on Tuesdays for fulltime post-secondary students. Finding cheap admission prices to places like this is as easy as checking their websites and signing up for e-mail notices.
Campus dental services expanded SARAH DOKTOR Students are all smiles about the new dentist office opening on campus. Located beside the new HSF office, the clinic opened last week after a month of renovation to the space. “I think it is a good idea that they brought it to the school,” said fourth year business student Kerri Gonzales. “They have the health centre here [and] it’s good they are bringing these services to the students.” Marcy Skribe, a dental hygienist, began working at Humber in January of this year. “There were a lot of referrals that went out and that’s why I decided to bring in a dentist a couple times a week,” said Skribe. The dentist will be at Humber twice a week while the hygienist is available five days weekly. The clinic staff can inform
Guelph-Humber students Joseph Leger and Ashley Cabral enjoy saving money together.
“I have definitely gone on dates that would be considered cheaper,” says Geoff Turner, who owns a renovation business. “I have gone to many art galleries where the admission was never more than $10.” Like most young people, Turner finds it tough to spend money on expensive date ideas. “Owning my own business through the recession has made me think twice about reaching for my wallet when it comes to dating,” says Turner. “At this point, money is a hard to come by commodity and it is better saved than splurged.” For couples who enjoy being students about the coverage and services offered through Humber Students’ Federation (HSF). “I think it’s great that it is accessible. If there are any questions, it’s right next door,” saidSieu Moi Ly, HSF Director. Many students are learning about their coverage for the first time. “I found out that our fees include the plan and I want to get it for my family as well,” said first year Web Development student, Faraz Hassan Qureshi. “I used to have a plan for work, and I was thinking about getting a new plan, but now I know we have one, and it’s good. My teeth are in quite bad condition,” said Qureshi. Dental insurance is offered through HSF to full time students that have paid all of their fees for the current semester. “We do have a very comprehensive plan...I think we have very good coverage,” said Ly. Although services are now offered on campus, students do not have to use them. Students can choose their own dentist, while still using their insurance, or opt out altogether. Students can stop by the HSF office for more information or speak with the hygienist at the clinic during operating hours.
active, going for a bike ride or a walk is always an enjoyable option. Cities across Ontario have many walking and biking trails to offer. Toronto’s High Park is an example close for many students. By searching on a city’s website, you can find plenty of information about parks in your area. If the weather permits, why not plan an afternoon picnic? It is fairly inexpensive and allows people to get to know each other more while enjoying the nice weather. As a substitute to expensive meals, students can choose to pack low-priced alternatives such as appetizers, desserts, and fruits. Plus, students
Laura Piedade
generally have picnic necessities lying around their dorm or house including blankets, napkins, and silverware. As the evening hour rolls around, many people love to go see a great movie. However, movie dates can be expensive these days. An adult admission can be $12.50 and prices for popcorn currently run from around $4.75 for a small to $7.75 for a large, depending on the cinema. So, instead of seeing a show in the evening, try getting tickets for a matinee. For those of us who insist on seeing a movie in the evening, there are plenty of theatres offering discount cards such as AMC’s
movie watcher or Cineplex Odeon’s Scene card. These cards allow the user to accumulate points which can be used towards a free movie or free concessions. “I do believe any movie card is worth it,” says Bianca Moran, an AMC employee. “If you can get a free movie just by swiping a card and getting points, then do it!” “Discounts can also be obtained from e-mails that are sent to customers who sign up for them. These e-mails can give you free popcorn, drinks, or even movies.” End on a good note by taking your date to a festival or concert. “I would recommend the weekend festivals for a low budget date,” says Corinne Rendall, a third year Early Childhood student at GH. “You get to walk around, talk, and look at the different things. Then you can share some food at the festival and sit and talk.” By checking out the Toronto city website or reading signs posted around your city, you can find out when these events are happening. Dating doesn’t have to be expensive. You can enjoy these activities all in one day, or on separate occasions. Either way, it will amaze your companion and keep you cool without any financial suffering. “It’s really not that hard,” says Turner. “Usually cost effective dates are better because you can do them more often and there is more thought put into them.” “I completely support the cheaper date idea!” Rendall says. “I don’t have a lot of money to spare for dating, so they are perfect. Who doesn’t like to save money?”
Humber fights flu pandemic LINDSAY BISHOP Guelph-Humber students were still catching the last rays of summer when a committee formed at Humber to deal with the sobering threat of H1N1, commonly referred to as swine flu. The committee developed a new plan focused on prevention. “We ordered and installed hundreds of the sanitizer stations. We provided a communications campaign based on posters, flyers and a website,” says Sylvia Kowal, Director of Marketing and Communications at Humber College. However, not all elements are catching the attention of busy students. “I’ve just noticed the flyers and the posters in the washroom,” admits Sarah Strachan, first-year Business student. Natasha Petersons, also a firstyear Business student, has taken note of the sanitizers and flyers, but hasn’t noticed much more. Humber’s advice to ill students from Toronto Public Health is standard in the city. Students should go to their doctor or call the health care centre if they suspect they have H1N1.
Lindsay Bishop
A Guelph-Humber student prevents the spread of bacteria. In the case of a more serious outbreak, classes will continue to be provided for students. “We have been fortunate this semester and we’ve not observed a need for further action at this time on our campus,” says Jennifer DeDominicis, Campus Registrar. “But should things escalate we will certainly be working within our community to make sure that students are not disadvantaged academically.” In addition, Humber will be holding its annual flu shot clinic, but so far talks about a H1N1 flu
vaccine are on standby. “Everybody is just waiting to see when the vaccine is ready and how it is going to be administered,” says Kowal. For now, Kowal says the focus remains on monitoring the situation and spreading the information before H1N1 begins a spread of its own. While informational flyers and posters wallpaper the school, students like Petersons, Strachan and Lozaroff remain unconcerned about the possibility of an outbreak.
TUESDAY OCTOBER 13, 2009
7 EDITORIAL
Guelph-Humber
RADIX
Dare to cross the bridge? GH students need to lay differences aside and take advantage of Humber resources
S
tudents at Guelph-Humber enjoy the special status of being under the wings of both the Humber Hawk and the Guelph Gryphon. Because of this dual-institution status, Guelph-Humber students are entitled to use the facilities and services of both the University of Guelph and Humber College. In theory, the arrangement is favorable for Guelph-Humber students, granting them a diverse range of opportunities. In practice, Guelph-Humber students often stay confined to the GH building and rarely dip into the treasure trove of services offered at Humber. The University of Guelph has offerings of its own, including sports teams and vast library holdings – both in the university and through the tri-university library agreement between Guelph, Waterloo, and Laurier. Humber has a lot to offer Guelph-Humber students. Gems include access to equipment from Media Services, participation in sports teams and intramurals through Athletics, or access to events, services, and clubs through the Humber Students Federation (HSF).
Many Guelph-Humber students are unaware that they are considered part of the Humber community and enjoy the same access to the college’s facilities, services, and resources. Some GH students may feel overwhelmed by the ratio of Humber students to GuelphHumber students. There are 19 000 full-time and 55 000 parttime students among Humber’s three campuses. By comparison, there are roughly 3 000 full-time students at Guelph-Humber. This leaves a full-time student ratio of about one GH student for every seven Humber students. Other students may feel that
because of the distinction between ‘university’ and ‘college’ students that they are above using the resources Humber offers. This kind of elitist snobbery hinders GH students from taking full advantage of the tuition and student fees they pay to the college. As an institution, GuelphHumber does not exist. The building and the programs housed within are a product of an agreement made between Guelph and Humber. In the agreement, it was decided that fees and tuition would be paid through Guelph and that Guelph would handle the aca-
demic side of the equation. Humber agreed to provide the services and student life aspects of the GH puzzle. These include student governance through HSF, access to athletic facilities, and space in student residence. While GH students pay through Guelph’s WebAdvisor system, a significant portion of their fees are funneled into Humber College. By not taking advantage of what’s offered on the other side of the bridge, GuelphHumber students are wasting dollars spent on student fees. The bottom line? There is no troll hiding under the bridge between GH and Humber.
Shared Resources A taste of what’s offered on the Humber side: • Equipment rental through Humber’s Media Services desk • A diverse palate of foods, including ethnic foods and quality student-prepared foods • A range of student clubs. Full list on www.humberlife.com • A comprehensive health and dental plan through HSF – hint: all full-time students have already paid for it • Intramural sports, physical therapy, and free fitness workshops through Athletics (there’s a swimming pool too!) • Discounted spa treatments in the Humber Spa • Student employment through the Humber Career Centre • On-campus pharmacy and dental clinic funded wby HSF • A Health Centre staffed by nurse practitioners and a doctor • A multimedia library with videos, journals, newspapers, and books And through Guelph: • The tri-university library system • University-level sports teams • “Wind your toy” • Access to student events in the University Centre
We asked you...
Do you feel more part of the Humber or Guelph community?
Julie Metni Second-year Media Studies
Vicky Pazos First-year Early Childhood
Adrian Smith Third-year Business
Vivian Ho Fourth-year Business
Malaika Browne First-year Business
“It’s kind of an even split.”
“I can see Humber on the other side. It’s its own area.”
“Guelph community always keeps it on the low, so you don’t know what they’re doing”
“I just consider myself all. I don’t really attach to one.”
“Theres more going on (at Humber), there’s more to do, everything is there.”
EDITOR IN CHIEF Melissa Doyle
PHOTO EDITOR Klara Spanjevic
MANAGING EDITORS Stephanie Butler Devon McLean
ART DIRECTOR Katie Myhaluk
PRODUCTION EDITOR Klara Spanjevic
NEWS Justin Herrington Tracy Woolcock
RadiX
executive.radix@gmail.com www.radxonline.ca
LIFE Olena Prostiv Alexandra Works BIZ/TECH Vanessa Wojtala ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Tyler Munro Erin Kann
SPORTS Jesse Maida Kyle Brazeau FACULTY ADVISORS Salem Alaton Pierre Hamilton Kimberley Noble
SPORTS 8
Guelph-Humber
TUESDAY OCTOBER 13, 2009
RADIX
A new semester, new Athletic Centre Facility to finally open after winter break AMANDA SMITH The Athletic Centre at Humber is getting a facelift. The 15,000 square foot addition to the facility is the major change students will see. The Assistant Athletic Director and Sports Information Director at Humber, Jim Bialek is looking forward to the completion of the renovation. “There will be a big difference,” Bialek says. “It’s a big update. We are hoping it’s all done by January 2010 in time for the new semester.”
Updates to the Athletic Centre include a revamping of both levels basic floor plans. The main floor will see a new varsity team room and the dressing rooms are being updated as well as getting saunas. The second floor will become the expanded weight room and will be equipped with up to date equipment, two studios and a wellness reception area. “Our offices are about a month behind,” Bialek says of the approximately $4.5-million renovation. “We are going to close the weight room after exams to do the work there. The goal is that it is open after Christmas break.” Bialek says basic construction problems are causing delays in the overhaul. Leanne Henwood-Adam is the
Courtesy of Humber Athletics
This is the proposed look of the new Athletic Centre at the D entrance.
more
at u o y for
Humber
Fitness Co-ordinator and the Fitness Leadership Director at the Athletic Centre. She says delays are to be expected. “You have to roll with the punches,” Henwood-Adam says. “There will always be issues. It does create extra work but it makes life interesting.” Henwood-Adam has had to redo the fitness schedule multiple times now for this semester due to construction. She is looking at getting more exercise machines for the gym and more up to date equipment. “We are looking to complement what we have,” HenwoodAdam says. “We are getting pieces we don’t have or that are popular and have high usage.” “Ideally we will have a situation where you don’t have to sign on to use a treadmill or elliptical,” says Bialek. “You can go up and go.” Michael Gonder, a third year Business student at Humber says if he wasn’t in the area of the construction, he wouldn’t notice. “It is a bit of a pain because I’m always there,” Gonder says. Justin Seller, a third year Architecture student says all the construction is for the best. “I realize reno is a huge deal,” Seller says. “But it makes everything better. It’s a good thing for everyone.” Students who use the gym are going to have to tolerate the narrow hallways and loud noises for a few more months.
WEB DEVELOPMENT AT HUMBER
Do you have a diploma or degree? Unsure how to turn your knowledge and skills into a satisfying career in a growing field? Take a look at Humber’s one-year, three-semester Web Development Graduate Certificate Program. This program, which includes a workplace internship, will start you on a career path that will build on your current knowledge and skills. For additional information, email Bernie Monette bernie.monette@humber.ca telephone 416.675.6622 ext 4587 or visit humber.ca/webdevelopment
Next start date: September 2010
Jim Bialek
Humber Hawks beat the Redeemer Royals 4-0 in their season opener.
Hawks confident in upcoming season Humber men’s soccer team shows a lot of promise AMANDA SMITH This is a year of high expectations. The Humber Hawks men’s soccer team is aiming to win at provincials. Coach Germain Sanchez says this year looks like it will be a strong one for the team. “We had 30 to 35 very good players show up for tryouts along with returning players,” Sanchez says. Some members of the team are recruited to play while many others show up for the September tryouts. Sanchez says there were over 100 players who tried out for the team this year. Sanchez says, “Our team is made up of 25 very experienced players. I expect this group to carry us for the next few years.” Sanchez says he is happy with the group of players he has. “They are willing to be humble, they are able to push themselves to work hard and I don’t expect discipline to be a problem,” he says. “We had a good team a few years ago but there were personality conflicts and we weren’t able to go anywhere.” The soccer season has just begun and Sanchez is using the time on the field to experiment with line combinations. “Because it’s early in the season, we play as many players as possible and move them around,” he says. “We hope not to lose any points early on but we also don’t want to embarrass anyone.” Team captain Dave Ragno is looking beyond a provincial championship. “We have a strong team from
front to back,” Ragno says. “Our goal is to go to nationals and win.” Ragno says he is justified to feel so confident in this year’s team. “We know we have confidence,” he says. “Our rookies also play outside of school so they should fit in. We’re just getting to know how each other plays.” Jim Bialek, Assistant Athletic Director and Sports Information Director, also believes this team has a lot of promise.
“We have a strong team from front to back.” “Our goal is to win the national championship,” Bialek says. “This is potentially one of the strongest teams ever since we won the last national championship.” Bialek noted some members of the team won last year’s indoor soccer championship with Humber. “They have a taste of what it takes to get a championship. It will be a very exciting year in men’s soccer.”
Jim Bialek
Humber Hawks’ Calvin Rosario.