From stubble to ’stache Movember fundraiser underway. Page 3 MONDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2015
SPOKE
A LEARNING NEWSROOM FOR JOURNALISM STUDENTS
CONESTOGA COLLEGE, KITCHENER, ONT.
STUDENTS HELP OTHERS BREATHE EASY
WWW.SPOKEONLINE.COM
PHOTO BY PAUL BOREHAM
Local food is a healthy and tasty alternative. Page 6 46TH YEAR — NO. 21
GRT UPass talks get serious BY SARAH VEENSTRA
Megan Codognotto, a health sciences (respiratory therapy) student, demonstrates neonatal intubation techniques at Conestoga College’s Doon campus Oct. 30. Newborns unable to breathe on their own need oxygen administered by specialists, which students in the program are being trained to be. Several respiratory-related exhibits lined the hallways inside Door 6, created by the students as part of their field studies class.
Fresh from the farm
Pinch yourself, as the dream of a Grand River Transit UPass may actually become a reality for Conestoga College. At the Conestoga Student Inc. board of directors meeting on Oct. 29, it became clear just how seriously GRT and CSI have been working to set plans of a UPass in motion. The universal pass, or “UPass” as it’s commonly referred to, is a bus pass currently available to all local university students. The price of the pass is included in their tuition. A slide show prepared by CSI president Jeff Scherer outlined the proposed changes to current GRT bus routes heading to and from the college’s Doon, Waterloo and Cambridge campuses, focusing mainly on routes 10, 16, 61, 116 and 111. For routes 10, 116, 61 and 111, GRT’s plan is to cut current wait times during peak season (the fall semester) in half with the addition of approximately eight buses. This would mean stops that presently have a 30-minute wait in between buses would
only have a 15-minute wait period, if the UPass is implemented. Route 16 would also be getting additional buses but instead of decreasing wait times during the day, it would be for the addition of an evening service. To complete the changes, GRT would need to acquire a total of eight buses and add 14,004 scheduled hours, a cost that totals just below an estimated $2.4 million. “GRT has said that the changes will affect 10,000 students,” Scherer said. “We, however, estimate more like 10,500 students.” Scherer said he has asked that GRT not raise the price of the UPass past the current Conestoga bus cost of $240. If the UPass is implemented, the cost will be added to the tuition payment of every Conestoga student without the ability to opt out. Sometime this month, CSI will make a survey available to get student response, and to get a more accurate depiction of what the majority of students rely upon for their main method of transportation. CONTINUED ON PAGE 9
New flu ‘shot’ administered up the nose BY JESSICA PETT
Getting the flu shot can be a traumatizing event for young children and yet another chore on the to-do list for many adults. Health Canada has now come up with a solution; it’s called FluMist, a live influenza vaccine administered through the nostrils. According to the FluMist website, it can be given to anyone aged two to 59. However, Public Health Ontario, which is administering the vaccine for the first time this year, will only be giving it to patients ages five to 17. Unlike the original flu vaccine given by needle, FluMist is painless but does have some similar side effects as the needle. According to FluMist’s website, the most common side effects include runny nose, reduced appetite, weak-
ness, headache and fever. Wendy Kennedy, a Waterloo mother of three, has never considered getting her family immunized. “It didn’t seem right to subject them to unnecessary and painful yearly injections. They have strong immune systems and do not interact with a vulnerable population,” she said. Satish Mistry, a pharmacist at Westmount Place Pharmasave, said although there are side effects with both kinds, he recommends the FluMist vaccine for certain individuals. “It’s much easier, it’s less invasive, it’s worth getting in a young, healthy population but not in anyone who has a weakened immune system,” he said. The introduction of FluMist has given people much more to think about when it comes to whether or not they should receive the vaccine and how.
Kennedy said the FluMist nasal vaccine might have changed the game for her. “With the nasal spray being fairly new, I would approach it with caution. I will admit that the non-injection option would open me up to discussion about whether or not I will offer it to my kids. I had firmly closed the discussion on yet another vaccination.” The FluMist vaccine is free for now for patients up to 17 years old and will be available at most pharmacies and doctors’ offices in the region, but Kennedy said it is not advertised much. “Our family doctor does not really endorse the flu vaccine. We can get it if we want but he doesn’t push it at all,” she said. There is currently a shortage of the FluMist vaccine in Waterloo Region. Lashen Naidoo, a pharmacist and owner of Shoppers Drug Mart
on Ottawa Street in Kitchener, said once the shortage is over, he believes there will be an increase in the number of children who receive the vaccine. “Due to this shortage, FluMist is only available to doctors at this stage for children under five years old,” he said. Naidoo also said this vaccine is newer to pharmacists than it is to doctors. “Previously this vaccine was not funded by Public Health Ontario and had to be administered by a doctor. For the current flu season, it is being funded by Public Health Ontario and can be administered by a pharmacist for all children between five and 17,” he said. Conestoga College will not be administering the FluMist vaccine, but does hold free flu shot clinics each fall. For dates and more information on these clinics from Health Services,
PHOTO BY JESSICA PETT
Satish Mistry, a pharmacist at Westmount Place Pharmasave, recommends the FluMist, a nasal vaccine, instead of a flu shot for certain individuals. visit www.conestogac.on.ca/ health-services or speak to the on-campus nurse in Room 1A102 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday.
NEWS
Page 2 s SPOKE
Now deep thoughts ... with Conestoga College
Monday, November 9, 2015
FILBERT CARTOONS
Random questions answered by random students
If you could have any animal as a pet, what would you have?
“A tiger.”
Brett Nafziger, first-year accounting, audit and information technology
“A black panther.”
Allen Bezeau, second-year broadcast journalism
“A bunny.”
Hope Natywary, first-year human services foundation
“A tiger or leopard.” Scarlett Jarquin, first-year nursing BScN
“A goat.”
Kyla VanderSlagt, first-year pre-health sciences
“A husky.”
Arsalan Qureshi fourth-year accounting, audit and information technology Smile Conestoga, you could be our next respondent!
OSAP repayment causes stress BY TAYLOR SCHWEITZER
Homework, studying, stress and spending are some of the concerns that students have throughout the school year. To help relieve some of the stress and concerns about money, a lot of students choose to apply for an Ontario Student Assistance Program loan to help them pay for school. The program run by the Ontario government lends money to students who are in financial need throughout their years of school. The downfall? You have to pay some of it back. “Students need a financial plan and the start of the financial plan is a budget,” said Sophia Hilbert, manager of Student Financial Services at Conestoga College. “Students need to recognize the costs associated with education as well as living expenses during their studies. They need to identify where the income is coming from: summer job, part-time work, parents or other family, OSAP or other loans.” For some students, saving and earning money to pay back their OSAP debt is already on their to-do list. “OSAP adds a lot of stress to my school workload,” said Marissa Trussler, a firstyear business administration – management student.
PHOTO BY TAYLOR SCHWEITZER
Katherine Hennige is a financial aid officer at Conestoga College who assists students with their financial concerns. “There’s always that cloud hanging over my head saying, “You better ace this test so you can be at the top and get the best job possible or OSAP will eat you alive.” Students sometimes feel stressed because they are worried about OSAP budgets due to the switch of programs in college. “Normally students are permitted to switch programs,” Hilbert said. “However, they will be required to provide rationale to OSAP, explaining the change. There is not usually a problem with the first program switch. OSAP will
look more closely at subsequent program changes.” Interest fees can add up if you don’t pay your OSAP money back by the due date. “My spending habits were the first thing I had to change with OSAP,” Trussler said. “Since I was only given enough to pay for tuition and books with a bit of money leftover, I couldn’t buy new clothes or as much groceries as before.” To reduce stress, it’s important to start saving money now and reward yourself later, after you have repaid your loans.
NEWS
Monday, November 9, 2015
SPOKE Page 3
Movember kicks off, but not at Conestoga BY JOE WEPPLER
November is here and with it comes one of the world’s biggest and most viral fundraising campaigns. The Movember Foundation is a charity committed to the men’s health movement. Since 2003, millions of men and women have joined the movement and over $677 million has been raised. The Movember Foundation has also funded over 1,000 programs focusing on prostate cancer, testicular cancer, poor mental health and physical inactivity. “It’s something that we don’t usually talk about, nor do we learn in school,” said Ann Do, a second-year general business student at Conestoga. Movember started in 2003 when two men from Melbourne, Australia – Travis Garone and Luke Slattery – challenged each other to grow a moustache for the duration of November. After recruiting 30 friends to join in on the fun, they experienced a month of questions in a time when the moustache as a fashion trend had all but disappeared. It was then that they realized the power of the moustache as an awareness raiser. In 2011, Canadians were the biggest contributors to Movember charities of any nation. In 2012, Movember was listed as one of the world’s top 100 non-government organizations. Last year, Canadian Mo Bros and Sistas alone raised $24.1 million for the Movember Foundation. Partners in Canada include Prostate Cancer Canada and TrueNTH. One of the driving forces behind the vast support for Movember in Canada is college and university students getting in on the trend.
“I think that any student is capable of creating change,” said Do. “It’s a creative way to get people to participate and it also has meaning behind it.” In prior years, Conestoga has participated in the Movember movement with teams, photo contests and prizes awarded to those who wanted to support the movement. “CSI has opted to not participate in Movember this year,” said Laurita Martynowski, the administrative assistant for Conestoga Students Inc. However, if you want to get involved, it’s simple. Every November, men are challenged to grow – and women to support – the moustache or make a commitment to get active. These things are done to spark conversation and raise funds and awareness. You can sign up at www.Movember.com and have friends, family or colleagues donate to your efforts. All funds raised go toward supporting innovative men’s health programs across the world. As a trend, Movember has few competitors that can match its sway. Featuring ambassadors all across the world ranging from Snoop Dogg and Brody Jenner to Mr. Clean, it’s easy to see why there is so much conversation generated every November for men’s health. As far as causes go, it’s hard to argue against the importance of men’s health issues. According to Movember Canada, the average life expectancy for men is six years less than women. One in eight Canadian men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer. One in five Canadians will experience a mental health problem every single year, and three out of four deaths by suicide are men.
PHOTO BY JOE WEPPLER
Erinn Large (left) and Riley Larsen, both first-year radio broadcast students, show off their Movember support at Conestoga’s Doon campus on Nov. 2.
COMMENTARY
Page 4 s SPOKE
Monday, November 9, 2015
Remember their sacrifice BY MICHELLE MAISONVILLE
Each year on Nov. 11 we remember the courage of the Canadian men and women who fought to defend our freedoms and rights and who made it possible for us to live in a peaceful and democratic country. We’ll never be able to repay the debt we owe to them, but we can remember their sacrifices and pay tribute to them. One of those freedoms they fought for was the freedom to vote, but over the years voters appear to be something of a dying breed in Canada. In 2011, the voter turnout was a mere 61 per cent and in 2008 it was even less with only 58 per cent of Canadians casting their ballot, the lowest voter turnout on record. Although turnout was higher during last month’s federal election at about 68 per cent, the highest since 1993, it’s still a pretty dismal number. That means that over 30 per cent of eligible Canadians did not exercise their right to vote on Oct. 19. We believe it is the duty of all Canadians to exercise this right and make their voices heard. Eligible Canadians have no excuse not to vote because it takes only a few minutes of their time. Essentially all you have to do is find your polling station, go there and mark an X beside the name of the candidate you support. Canadians also can’t use the excuse of being too busy. Voters were able to vote at any Elections Canada office until Oct. 13 or at the advanced polls held all Thanksgiving weekend. On election day Canadians had 12 hours to vote. Here in Ontario, voting was held from 9:30 a.m. until 9:30 p.m. Employers had to ensure employees had at least three consecutive hours off so they could go and vote, making yet another excuse invalid. Another common excuse made is that they’re uninformed. With social media it’s now easier than ever to become informed so that is not a valid excuse. People could find each party’s campaign promises on the candidates’ websites and their messages were spread across all social media platforms. There was also extensive media coverage for the 78 days leading up to election day and debates were broadcast online. Our veterans deserve more than excuses and poor voter turnout. Make their sacrifice worthwhile by casting your ballot the next time an election comes around. Don’t let their fight for democracy have been in vain. The views herein represent the position of the newspaper, not necessarily the author.
Letters are welcome Spoke welcomes letters to the editor. Letters should be signed and include the name and telephone number of the writer. Writers will be contacted for verification. No unsigned letters will be published. Letters should be no longer
than 500 words. Spoke reserves the right to edit any letter for publication. Address correspondence to: The Editor, Spoke, 299 Doon Valley Dr., Room 1C30, Kitchener, Ont., N2G 4M4
In Flanders Fields ...
Weddings today are full of drama Weddings and drama, unfortunately, go hand in hand. How did your big day become everyone else’s? Weddings are about celebrating the bride’s and groom’s love for one another and wishing them many good years to come. Don’t get me wrong, I like weddings, but when siblings squabble, mother-in-laws stand off against each other and bridesmaids have cat fights, it’s enough to make anyone have an extra glass of wine. Or two. For instance, I have a friend whose half-brother is getting married and she isn’t going to be a bridesmaid, but her other half-sister will be. I think that the bride can have whoever she wants in the wedding party but if your fiance has sisters you should at least have them both be part of it. My friend is so upset about not being a bridesmaid that she is forgetting that she is still a part of the wedding because they want her to give a scripture reading. When someone isn’t asked to be a bridesmaid it is apparently the end of her social
Jessica Hammer
Opinion life. There are even TV shows devoted to helping women find the right dress that all of the bridesmaids agree on. Even television networks have taken what is supposed to be a wonderful day and turned it into a contest about whose dress is best or how to outshine the bride.
“
Just say no. There’s no law that says you have to be in everyone’s wedding.
”
It’s as if dresses, cakes and banquet halls are more important than the meaning of marriage, of spending the rest of your life with someone. Marriage is not something you should take lightly.
Once you hit a certain age you can end up catching wedding fever. Everyone is getting married so you might as well starting planning too. If you are not thinking about matrimony you are going to weddings or are even in one or two. Another friend of mine was a bridesmaid for four weddings this past September. Once they were done she complained about being broke. You know what her mom told her? She said she could have just said no. There’s no law that says you have to be in everyone’s wedding. The one thing that people might forget is that going to weddings can be expensive. If you want to be a bridesmaid, you will pay for it. There is always some drama in weddings but there can be people who take it over the top. Weddings are for the love birds who are saying their vows and pledging their commitment to each other. So, the next time you are at a wedding, be sure to remember that you are there to support the newlyweds and that it is not all about you.
SPOKE
IS PUBLISHED AND PRODUCED WEEKLY BY THE JOURNALISM STUDENTS OF CONESTOGA COLLEGE Editor: Paul Boreham Assignment Editors: Leah Morrow, Garrett Burchett Advertising Managers: Sarah Veenstra, Sara Sasila Spoke Online Editors: Kandace Gallant, Joe Weppler, Christel Allison, Matt Linseman
Production Managers: Jessica Hammer, Ashley Nequest, Ethan Kompf Photo Editors (print): Jenna Braun, Marissa Cuddy, Adam Schwartz, Brea Bergen Photo Editors (online): Emmie Siroky, Sean Malinowski, Jason Mota, Jessica Pett
Social Media Editor: Chris Hussey, Mike Stromme, Josh Van Ostrand Circulation Manager: Michelle Maisonville, Taylor Schweitzer Faculty Supervisor and Adviser: Christina Jonas
Spoke’s address is 299 Doon Valley Dr., Room 1C30, Kitchener, Ontario, N2G 4M4. Phone: 519-748-5220, ext. 3691, 3692, 3693, 3694 Fax: 519-748-3534 Email: spoke@conestogac.on.ca Website: www.spokeonline.com
The views and opinions expressed in this newspaper do not necessarily reflect the views of Conestoga College. Spoke shall not be liable for any damages arising out of errors in advertising beyond the amount paid for the space. Letters to the editor are subject to acceptance or rejection and should be clearly written or typed; a MS Word file would be helpful. Letters must not contain any libellous statements.
NEWS
Monday, November 9, 2015
SPOKE s Page 5
Action on climate change urgent BY PAUL BOREHAM
Smoke is rising. It’s collecting in the outer regions of our atmosphere and encircling the planet in an ominous cloud. As the sun shines down upon us and brightens our day, that smoky layer is preventing the rays from escaping. Instead they are sticking around, warming the planet and causing instability. Scientists agree: Our existence is at stake if we don’t do something fast about our gluttonous burning of oil and gas products. The climate is changing. Leaders from 190 countries are meeting at the United Nations Conference on Climate Change in Paris, from Nov. 30 to Dec. 11, to discuss the deepening “cloud in the sky” and make a plan to combat the problem. “It’s a focal point for people right across the world to think seriously about climate change and what needs to be done about it,” said Simon Dalby, CG chair in the political economy of climate change. “So far, despite 20-something years of warnings from the climate scientists, policymakers have been very slow to get really serious about addressing it,” he said. Climate talks began in 1992 in Rio de Janeiro. The Kyoto protocol was produced from that in 1997, an agreement where countries, including Canada, signed on to cut gas emissions by five per cent of levels emitted in 1990. These were ambitious goals, but it was all for not. Conferences followed, the last being in 2009 in Copenhagen – deemed a failure by many, especially environmental groups and
individuals concerned about the growing problem, who blamed politicians for their lack of courage. Divest Waterloo is a local group (part of a worldwide divestment movement) involved in educating the public about climate change and encouraging a move away from fossil fuel investments. “Our focus is on a system change, and for that to happen we need regulation, and we need our politicians to get involved,” said Laura Hamilton, volunteer for Divest Waterloo. “There’s been a reluctance, especially in Canada. Talking about taking on the fossil fuel industry is almost taboo,” she said, because of the power it wields and its perception of being the economic engine of the country. She added, “You can see that we’ve had too many of our eggs in that basket,” referring to the recent drop in the price of oil. “What we should be doing is investing in alternatives and becoming a leader in the clean technology that the whole world is going to need if we hope to survive. “The divestment movement is about calling on our culturally and morally powerful institutions to show leadership. Right now we’re focused on the universities and churches,” she said, adding that foundations are next on their list. She gave an example of an Anglican diocese in Ottawa that recently divested. It involves: (a) stopping buying funds that include fossil fuel stocks and (b) taking five years to review all investments of the same, removing them and if possible re-investing in clean energy
solutions. It is a public commitment. “When people talk about money, others listen,” she said. It sets an example. “Money is power. Collectively, that’s power we all have. Move your money, and do it publicly, and what you’re doing is you’re showing the world that this energy transition is possible.” She used the analogy of churches and universities in the United States that refused to fund businesses in South Africa during apartheid. It takes away their social licence, she said. As far as education, there are a few simple things everyone should know about climate change, Hamilton said, as stated by leading climate scientists. (The facts below are from a video Hamilton showed, and commented on, at a recent workshop she co-hosted in Kitchener. The short video excerpt, titled Do the Math, is narrated by author and activist Bill McKibben.) Two degrees is the tipping point. The planet’s temperature since pre-industrial times – before the burning began – has risen about one degree. Once it reaches two degrees, the climate will become too erratic and cause massive changes in how humans live. The only thing agreed to at the last climate conference by all countries was that this number would never be exceeded. Next, 565 billion tons of carbon in the atmosphere is the limit for us. It’s currently in the upper 300s, and we’re burning 30 billion tons a year with an increase of five per cent every year. We’ll reach
JACK SPARROW’S WIFE MAKES AN APPEARANCE AT THE COLLEGE The visual merchandising program at Conestoga College threw a Halloween party on Oct. 29. Employees and students showed up in their spooky costumes and enjoyed some free candy while touring the classroom to see all the spectacular dresses that the visual merchandising class created. At left, ‘Jacqueline Sparrow’ poses with one of the many dresses made by the students. PHOTO BY SARA SASILA
565 billion tons in 15 years at the rate we’re going. Carbon enters the atmosphere quickly, but it exits very slowly. Lastly, there is currently about 2,795 billion tons of oil in reserve, waiting to be burned – five times the amount needed to reach the limit. The hard part of what Hamilton does is talking about all the doom and gloom. Melting glaciers, sea rise, droughts, catastrophic storms, food and water shortages and refugee explosions are just a sample. It is happening now, she said, attributing the Syrian refugee crisis partly on drought caused by climate change. “It’s very easy to get bummed out about all this,” said Hamilton. “But by being active and doing something about it, you can feel hopeful.” Divest Waterloo is organizing a gathering on Nov. 29, the day before the climate conference, in unison with marches in Ottawa and across the country. It’s in support of the talks and to let the world know that addressing climate change is 100 per cent possible, she said. There is reason to have some hope for Canada’s role in upcoming climate meetings. Our new prime minister, Justin Trudeau, has a much different take on the situation than outgoing prime minister Stephen Harper. In fact, Canada was slowly becoming the subject of derision and mockery. “It does make a difference because Justin Trudeau is not Stephen Harper,” said Dalby. “Clearly he doesn’t have the antipathy with dealing with
climate change that Harper did. He really does have to go to Paris and make it clear to the international community that Canada is no longer an obstacle to progress. The tone will be different. The willingness to co-operate will certainly be different. “The last nine years we’ve effectively been stymieing efforts. We withdrew from Kyoto and did all sorts of things that undermined efforts to move ahead on climate,” said Dalby. Trudeau has said he will consult with the provinces on how to proceed with a climate change plan for Canada. He does not have much time to do that, and so the best he can do in Paris is “telegraph to the community that we’re back and willing to play a constructive role,” said Dalby. Much work will need to be done in the months after the talks. Trudeau is heading to Paris with the provincial and territorial premiers, and he has invited the other federal leaders, making it a large group across party lines. “The United Nations is now asking all of the states that are parties to the original United Nations Framework Convention (1992) – which basically means every state on the planet – to suggest what contribution they are actually going to make to solving climate change,” said Dalby. “It’s changing the whole political dynamic of how climate is being addressed. “The sooner we get to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the easier adjusting to the changing climate in future decades it’s going to be. It really is a case of the sooner the better.”
Page 6 s SPOKE
NEWS
Monday, November 9, 2015
Support Waterloo Region farmers
BY KANDACE GALLANT
Going to a convenient grocery store may not be the best option. In today’s society, we’re lucky to have so many different grocery stores offering a variety of different foods and products. Zehrs, Walmart, Food Basics etc., are some of the many that sell everything from kitchen appliances and roasting chickens, to toys, fruits and vegetables. Though these places may be a go-to for many people, there are some who disagree with buying food from them. “I’m not saying that I never go to grocery stores, but usually it’s my last resort for things like vegetables and different cuts of meat,” said Lizzy Miller, a Mosborough Market employee. “I just like buying fresh local ingredients when they’re available and usually all the local meats are drug- and hormone-free, free range, and all-natural. That’s a selling point for me.” Mosborough is located in Guelph and is known for their top quality produce and meat. They are a family-run country market that sells local farmers’ fruits and vegetables and all-natural meats. They are busy on a regular basis with customers who are dedicated to supporting their local farmers. They also sell farm fresh eggs from their free-range chicken, and even artwork.
“It’s important to a lot of people that they are buying locally,” said Miller. “I don’t know how many times a day people will ask me where a product is from, or how our cattle and chickens are raised. They care about where the food they’re putting in their bodies is coming from and how they (the animals) are treated. People respect the animals they consume and want to know if they are being raised ethically.” She also said customers will comment on how they will not buy meat from grocery stores because they do not want to support factory farms, where they inject animals with hormones and treat them poorly. The cattle at Mosborough and Norwich, and the other family-run farms the pork comes from, are raised ethically in a stress-free environment. They are grain-fed, and are drugand hormone-free. “We get a lot of compliments from people on the beef,” Miller said. “Customers always say they prefer ours over something they’ve bought at the grocery stores.” Buying local not only supports your local farmers, it can also help with the economy since the money stays within the community, says the Sustainable Connections website (https://sustainableconnections.org/thinklocal/ why). It also said it can help
create better jobs for people and it puts your taxes to good use. “Buying local can definitely be more expensive,” said Kirsten Harbin, who has worked at Mosborough for seven years. “I think it’s worth it though. You know that you’re getting good ingredients. They aren’t full of chemicals and are non-genetically modified and they’re incredibly fresh.” Different countries that send their produce overseas to other places are most likely to include genetically modified substances (GMOs). “Many GMO produce is sold at grocery stores,” Harbin said. “I do go to the grocery store every once in a while, especially when something is out of season and we don’t have it at the market anymore, but I mainly stick to local produce. Especially locally raised meats.” Harbin agreed, saying that she gets a lot of customers asking her where different produce is from to ensure that it is local. “It matters to everyone who comes in the door,” she said. “People will ask where everything is from, from grapes to raspberries, to the tomatoes. If we tell them a product they’re buying isn’t local, they won’t buy it. Customers even want all the local artwork that we sell too, to support our local artists.”
PHOTO BY KANDACE GALLANT
Lizzy Miller, an employee at Mosborough Market, preps everything in the morning to make sure produce is fresh and ready to sell. In addition to raising cattle, they also grow their own produce, which is non-GMO, from corn to pumpkins. “When it’s corn season, we go through so many bins of it I can’t even count,” Harbin said. “And the first thing people will ask is, ‘Is it non-GMO or grown around here?’” Miller said, “I agree that it is more expensive for some things. But I would much rather spend my money on locally grown vegetables and
raised meats because I know the quality is better and I’m the one consuming it. And most importantly it helps to support the local farmers. Without us they wouldn’t be able to give us what we want or need.” “Try not to think of the expense of things,” said Harbin on local shopping. “Think of it as helping your local artists and your local farmers and the quality that you’re buying or consuming.”
RUGBY TEAM UPBEAT DESPITE LOSING IN QUARTER-FINALS
PHOTO BY LEAH MORROW
Even though the Conestoga Condors women’s rugby team lost in the quarter-finals, which put an end to their season, there was nothing but positive vibes from the coaches and players. The team posed for one last picture after the game. For video story, go to www.spokeonline.com.
NEWS
Monday, November 9, 2015
SPOKE s Page 7
For the love of all things local
BY CHRIS HUSSEY
The Busy Locavore, on first glance, does not seem like anything other than another place to eat on Gateway Park Drive. But like its owner, it is anything but typical. Allison Mitchell is the owner and chef at the quickservice restaurant, which is described on its website as high-quality food that is easy to take out. “The Busy Locavore serves delicious takeout, prepared meals and snacks made from scratch with an emphasis on local, artisanal and sustainably-sourced products,” said the description on their homepage. After opening its doors on Oct. 3 and after about a month of getting the word out, the restaurant held an official grand opening event on Oct. 28. Mitchell and her staff offered free samples to visitors. Fitting with the restaurant’s local appeal, they primarily promoted the event by putting up posters in the nearby community, although it was also promoted on community websites like Snapd Kitchener Waterloo. Not long after 4 p.m., the small space inside the restaurant was packed with people, many who were glad they came to the event. “I love all the spices, they are subtle and you can really taste the ingredients in there,” said Marios Matsias, a visitor. “Just beautiful.” His wife, Janice Matsias, added the restaurant provides a lot of options for people who may have dietary restrictions. I’m gluten-free and dairyfree, so it provides a good venue to find foods that sat-
PHOTO BY CHRIS HUSSEY
Peter Lenardon (left) interacts with Jon Evans during The Busy Locavore’s grand opening on Oct. 28. Lenardon primarily does the marketing for the restaurant, but was on the front line during the event. There were free samples given out to customers to celebrate the restaurant’s official opening and to promote the fact that the restaurant sources as much of its food as it can locally. isfy those dietary needs,” said Janice. “It’s a good combination of choices, whether you want to eat it right away or take something home to heat up later.” While she has several staff to assist her, Mitchell makes the vast majority of the food herself, and so perhaps it is no surprise there are a lot of options available for customers. She is a classically trained French chef with her Red Seal endorsement, a national standard of excellence for skilled trades in Canada, but she also has experience making dishes with more exotic influences,
FUNDRAISING FOR A GOOD CAUSE
PHOTO BY JESSICA HAMMER
Kirsten Kugler (left) and Lisa Opolko, from the human resources management program, helped raise money for the United Way on Oct. 27.
like Middle-Eastern foods. Mitchell said she thinks this is one reason why her restaurant will draw people in. “I feel a place like this doesn’t really exist ... it’s hard to find this quality of food that’s easy to take out.” Mitchell runs the restaurant alongside her boyfriend, Peter Lenardon, who primarily runs the marketing side of things. However, during the grand opening event, he also was on the front counter interacting with customers. The word locavore refers to someone who chooses to eat foods that have been grown
locally. Mitchell named The Busy Locavore after that concept, and that’s the market she said she is trying to appeal to: people who want to eat food grown sustainably and locally, but have no time to make it themselves. One potential obstacle with this concept is local food tends to cost more. Mitchell said this is in part because there is more work done on the farmer’s end, such as letting animals run free and using mixed crops. Although it costs more, she said it’s worth it. “I feel like my prices are
quite reasonable for the quality of the food,” she said. Jon Evans has been a fairly regular visitor to The Busy Locavore since it opened in early October, and agreed the price is worth the quality of the food. “It seems to make a difference, that’s all I can tell you,” he said. “This isn’t fast food; this is good food, fast.” For Mitchell, buying locally is worth the extra cost, and she believes people are starting to realize that. “It’s supporting your local economy,” she said. “It just benefits everybody.”
ROCKING OUT FOR HALLOWEEN
PHOTO BY MICHELLE MAISONVILLE
Second-year business marketing students (from left), Patrick Gallacher, Eiryn Jenkins and Carla Moosk raised money for UNICEF Canada as part of an assignment for their event marketing class. Students and staff could purchase candy or a Rockstar energy drink for $2, or a Rockstar hat for $5.
NEWS
Page 8 s SPOKE
Monday, November 9, 2015
November is diabetes month
BY CHRISTEL ALLISON
It’s November, which means it’s Diabetes Awareness Month. World Diabetes Day is celebrated every year on Nov. 14. The date was chosen because it marks the birthday of Canadian Sir Frederick G. Banting, who, along with Charles Best, is credited with the discovery of insulin in 1921. Best also helped create the Diabetes Association of Ontario in the 1940s, which became the Canadian Diabetes Association (CDA) in 1953. The CDA is a registered charity that helps the more than 10 million Canadians living with diabetes or prediabetes, both diagnosed or undiagnosed by helping them assess their risk factors and get in touch with a doctor.
The charity strives to lead the fight against diabetes by helping those affected by diabetes live healthy lives, preventing the onset and consequences of diabetes and discovering a cure. The CDA is not funded by the government. The organization partners with sponsors like Sun Life Financial, Loblaw Companies Ltd., Shoppers Drug Mart, Novo Nordisk Canada and LifeScan in the fight against diabetes. “As a non-profit organization, we count on individuals and other organizations,” said Heidi Fraser, public programs and services co-ordinator in the CDA Kitchener office. “Our organization would not exist without them.” This year, these sponsors are encouraging people to take two minutes to complete the CANRISK type 2 diabetes online risk test and
take charge of their health. Results from the test will push people to examine their lifestyle choices, get active and even monitor their weight. “In recognition of Diabetes Awareness Month, we’re focusing on encouraging Canadians to take the type 2 diabetes test online,” said CDA communications manager Harriet Lee. “It’s important that people are aware of the risk factors so people of moderate or high risk can see a doctor, take action and see what they can do to reduce the possibility of having diabetes. People of low risk need to be informed enough to take the test every year because the results may vary.” The relevance of this online risk test can’t be stressed enough because 20 Canadians are diagnosed with diabetes every hour of every day.
Berininger shines on new indie collaboration
“It’s not diagnostic,” said Fraser in regards to the CANRISK test. “The idea of it is to see what their level of risk is in terms of their development of type 2 diabetes.” Diabetes has reached epidemic proportions in Canada. It is the cause of 30 per cent of strokes, 40 per cent of heart attacks, 50 per cent of kidney failure requiring dialysis, 70 per cent of all non-traumatic limb amputations, vision loss and blindness. Having diabetes can shorten one’s lifespan. However, CDA Kitchener’s Heidi Fraser believes “it’s extremely important” that people are aware of the risk factors, get diagnosed and recognize that they might be living with this for the rest of their lives.” The longer a person goes without being diagnosed, the worse the complications get.
People can live really long and healthy lives when they are aware but there’s no going back when the complications come. The CDA offers programs and services for all age groups. Some of these include camp programs for children in every province, webinars, lunch and learn events in workplaces and communities, fundraisers and expos. This year, on Nov. 15, they will be hosting a Diabetes & You; Take Charge Expo in Kitchener. It’s free and open to people living with type 1, type 2 and pre-diabetes. Even if you just live with or love someone who has diabetes, you will stand to benefit from this expo. For general information, more information on the expo or how to get involved, visit diabetes.ca or call 1-800-BANTING (226-8464).
WALMART EMPLOYEE TALKS GIFTS
BY SEAN MALINOWSKI
Collaborations in the music world can sometimes be a huge flop. I’m looking at you Ja Rule and Metallica. Collaboration should be the time that multiple artists come together, tweaking their normal production practices to present a new sound with others. No recent music collaborations were really intriguing me until Oct. 30, when a duo called El Vy released Return to the Moon. El Vy consists of two individuals – Brent Knopf, an experimental indie-rocker from Portland, who is responsible for bands like Menomena and Ramona Falls, and Matt Berninger, the intimate lead singer from alternative rock act The National, who is wellknown for his unique baritone singing voice. Berininger has made a name for himself, writing emotionally profound pieces of music with his original band. The Grammy-nominated Trouble Will Find Me (2013) can attest to that. But El Vy presents Berininger’s exclusive song delivery with a dash of pleasant absurdity, a combination of whimsical and wise. It’s refreshing to see him try a new approach with his unique vocal ability. This collaboration really takes him out of his comfort zone, or possibly into it. I’m the Man to Be is definitely one of the unique, stand-out
PHOTOS BY CHRISTEL ALLISON
INTERNET PHOTO
El Vy’s Return to the Moon was released on Oct. 30. tracks on Return to the Moon. The album’s only explicit song is probably the most satisfying. Berininger presents himself as an unorthodox role model, mixing a cocky cadence with his humorous yet harmless banter. It is propelled by a mean guitar lick and a banging chorus. “Beatlemania made my mother think the way she does, she always said don’t waste your life wishing everything was how it was,” Berininger croons on the third track of the album, titled Paul is Alive. Berininger shows off his intriguing writing approach, over a spooky alt-rock ambience created by Knopf. Chalked full of haunting organ fills, and stalking gui-
tars, it’s a theme Berininger fits right into. The second half of the album sees a more familiar Berninger, presenting intimate themes at his own pace, over Knopf’s arrangements. Tracks like No Time to Crank the Sun and Careless are perfect examples of Berninger’s classical narrations mixing with sensitive, airy indie atmosphere. Every track on Return to the Moon has its own aura and colour. All and all, it’s a solid indie album, a playful side project, and a collaboration that actually works. It’s far from revolutionary, but definitely enlightening. If the duo really tickles your fancy, check out their performance at the Opera House in Toronto on Nov. 17.
A Walmart sales associate, seen above, who did not want his name published, at Bridgeport Plaza in Waterloo talks about Christmas gift ideas for photography enthusiasts. He said there is a camera for everyone, whether a serious photographer or for someone who takes photos only occasionally. Below, he helps a customer.
NEWS
Monday, November 9, 2015
Make your relationship work BY MATT LINSEMAN
Friendships are tough, but relationships are even tougher. There’s so much that one must consider before getting into a relationship including knowing what it takes to make a relationship last, understanding each other, what each of you are looking for and whether or not there’s a real spark. For some people, relationships can be difficult, so here’s some advice for those that need a little bit of guidance. “Successful relationships tend to be ones where couples give each other attention (or communicate) in even small ways like with a nod when the other is speaking,” said Jennifer Coleman, a registered social worker (RSW) at Perspective Counselling in Kitchener. “Sharing and supporting each other’s dreams is a way to have a really great relationship, so both people feel excited about their life.” The most successful relationships include respect, kindness and solid communication. When stressful times hit, both partners must be there for each other, rather than pull away. Although relationships have highs, they also have lows.
“There are a number of things that could cause difficulty (including) dishonesty, infidelity, being unwilling to compromise, unwillingness to communicate, substance abuse and violence and/or threatening behaviour,” said Joy Lang, an RSW and certified therapist at Cardinal Counselling and Mediation in Kitchener. Lang said couples should attempt to discuss problems and resolve issues to avoid getting into arguments. She also said to be reasonable and open and to spend some time trying to recall why you fell in love and have fun together. It’s important to understand how your partner is wired and how they experience love. You should try to express your love in that way, so that they know you care. There are thousands of ways to do this, but connecting with them on their terms and not always on your own is vital because after a while they won’t know they are loved. It’s really as simple as nurturing the relationship and spending time together focused on feeding the bond you two have with each other. It’s also really important to make time for each and have fun along the way. “When we feel securely
attached and attuned, we are stronger,” said Mary Luard, an RSW and registered psychotherapist at FreshBeginningsForCouples. net. “We can go out into the world and flourish (after that). Inter-dependency (is key) and then we can do anything.” Giving your partner time and space on their own is good, but how much depends on the individuals in the relationship and their specific needs. Everyone works differently and communicating what you need to your partner is crucial. There is no such thing as a perfect relationship. If you think everything’s perfect in yours, you may be overlooking some of the potential issues on both partners’ sides that you haven’t addressed. We all have our own unique way of approaching life. Fitting two lives together takes patience, acceptance, understanding and effort and there will be times when things go well and other times when they do not. But, it’s the commitment and willingness to work on things during the tough times that is important. Don’t forget to cherish the good times and have fun together. Are relationships easy? No, but they’re worth the work.
Students to vote on UPass CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
They also want to know what students feel is a fair price for the UPass if it does become available. “The city still has to vote to include this in their budget, which they’ll do in January,” said Scherer. “If it passes, then policy says we have one week to get students to vote. We want to make sure everyone can voice their opinions.” In other CSI business, a vacant board of director position was discussed. As the director left part way through the semester, there are not any policies currently in place on filling the void. The vote was unanimous to fill the spot, however, discussions of how it would be filled quickly became heated, as directors Brian Clark and Dita Dragusha felt it best to hold a by-election, (only including those who previously ran for the position from last year). However, other members, including vice-president Cameron Jones, felt it did an injustice to the new crop of approximately 3,000 first-year students. After much debate, the
board voted for an open election, agreeing to allow any student to run for the vacant position given they meet the following criteria: they are 18 years of age, possess a clean code of conduct, they are a full-time returning student, graduating in or following April 2016 and are not enrolled in a co-op program.
“
The city still has to vote to include this in their budget, which they’ll do in January. — Jeff Scherer
”
Those interested in running are asked to get 100 student signatures of endorsement along with one faculty member and one program co-ordinator, to be submitted by Nov. 13. The board will then go through the applicants and make a selection from the finalists. Also at the meeting, CSI made the decision to send director Hope Krempa to the Champions for Change Indigenous Education
SPOKE s Page 9
Conference held on the Brantford reserve, Nov. 3-4. “We really only have one course with any kind of native studies and it’s in one of my courses,” said Clark. “We should have indigenous studies throughout all the social services programs at the college but we don’t.” Krempa believes the knowledge that could be gained from the conference will help her and other CSI directors in advocating for indigenous studies on campus. CSI also voted to bring back two aboriginal workshops that were held in the winter semester of 2015 with great success – the first on making moccasins and the second on playing traditional drums. “We were only going to have the one last year but because the class size was so small and we had an abundance of students sign up, we decided to hold the second one,” said Clark. “I think it’s important that we do it again.” The next CSI meeting will be held near the end of November, with an exact date to be determined by the board.
NUTRITION FOR LEARNING FEEDS KIDS
PHOTO BY JENNA BRAUN
Kelly-Sue Labus, executive director of Nutrition for Learning, is proud of her organization’s growth, providing breakfast for nearly 18,000 kids each day. For video, visit www.spokeonline.com.
Life at 5 a.m. BY BREA BERGEN
Five a.m. is an odd hour. It’s quiet, peaceful really. Many people sleep soundly through it, while others are beginning or even finishing their work days. Brian Douglas captures this early hour in his gallery exhibit entitled 5 a.m., which was shown in the Rotunda Gallery inside Kitchener City Hall throughout October. The exhibit featured photographs of not only scenes taken at five in the morning, but the people who are awake and working at that hour. Douglas has always been inspired by industry and the working world. He has spent a number of years photographing industrial landscapes, and began looking for something more. “I wanted to find a way to move from just photographing spaces to having the faces behind the work included,” he said. It was his wife who gave him the idea to include overnight shift workers. “They are a hard-working yet often unseen part of the workforce and this was a way for me to honour the jobs that they do.” Douglas was amazed to have his photos shown in city hall. He has been adding
to the timeless exhibit, with photos taken from 2013, right up to Oct. 25 of this year. His photos are personal, each one telling a different story. They include a variety of professions, including firefighters, bakers and pharmacists. He contrasts the photo of the generally quiet work environment with a black and white portrait of the worker to go alongside it, making the piece seem deeper. The 5 a.m. exhibit will be shown again in September 2016 at the Kitchener Public Library. The Rotunda gallery plays host to many exhibits each year by various artists throughout the region and is a great way to get a glimpse of the talent Kitchener has to offer. Although the 5 a.m. exhibit has been taken down as of Nov. 1, it will be replaced by another, called Lab Culture, by Kate Carder-Thompson. Carrie Kozlowski, program assistant of arts and culture and economic development for the City of Kitchener, described the Rotunda Gallery as an unstaffed, public gallery. It is free to roam around, or to sit and relax as you take a peek at what it has to offer.
FUN & GAMES
Page 10 s SPOKE
Monday, November 9, 2015
Useless Facts
Oh Cliff!
Horoscope Week of Nov. 9, 2015
Aries
March 21 April 19 Lately you have been very focused on your passion – remember to take time for your friends and family.
Taurus April 20 May 20
Listen up – someone near you needs your help – they may not think they do, but they know you will understand.
Gemini May 21 June 21
Take a moment before jumping right into something – you may have too much on your plate already.
Cancer June 22 July 22
Be careful with your emotions, they may affect your relationships and spending.
Leo
July 23 August 22 Be careful about being too vocal about your opinions. They may be hurting someone close to you.
Virgo
August 23 September 22 You are often impatient if you don’t have balance in your life. Patience is key when dealing with new situations.
Most toilets flush in E flat. The Pyramids of Giza were as old to the ancient Romans as the ancient Romans are to us.
Libra
September 23 October 22
February 1865 is the only month in recorded history not to have a full moon.
You will finally complete that goal you have been working hard toward. Take time to relax before starting a new one.
The first person who will reach 150 years old has likely already been born.
Scorpio
Albert Einstein spoke his last words in German to a nurse who only knew English.
October 23 November 21 Competition is healthy and keeps you working hard, but make sure your mind is in the right place.
Sudoku Puzzle
Sagittarius November 22 December 21
Fill in the grid with digits in such a manner that every row, every column and every 3x3 box accommodates the digits 1-9, without repeating any.
Even though things haven’t been going your way lately, you will soon do something imaginable.
Capricorn December 22 January 19
You are always helping others with their problems, stop dwelling on your own and talk to someone.
Aquarius January 20 February 18
Don’t let the weather put you into sloth mode. Keep motivated and don’t let your laziness get the better of you.
Pisces
February 19 March 20 You are always a great friend, but some people around you may be taking advantage of that. It may be time for change.
Go forth and make all of these things happen. It is written in the stars.
Word Search
Monday, November 9, 2015
SPOKE ď ł Page 11
Page 12 ď ł SPOKE
Monday, November 9, 2015
Joe Weppler
relentless.
Spoke Reporter.
With a few keystrokes you can sample thousands of opinions, afloat in a sea of information. But as the volume increases, the accuracy and reliability of professional journalism is essential. Gathering and sorting the facts, weighing and interpreting events, and following the story from beginning to end is more important than ever.