ARGOSY
Mount Allison’s
Independent Student Newspaper
THE March 21, 2013
Exercising our democratic muscles since 1872
Vol. 142 Iss. 19
] e t o v o t e m i [T
Twenty-nine vie for twenty spots Nomination period extended for lack of candidates Richard Kent
Political Beat Writer The two-week old reforms to the Students’ Administrative Council (SAC) of the Mount Allison Students’
News
Pg. 2
Union (MASU) faced their first test this week. Following changes to the election schedule, voters in this year’s MASU spring elections will elect candidates to fill nineteen positions on Council. However, despite recent cuts to the number of elected positions on the SAC, a lack of candidates forced the SAC’s Chief Returning Officer (CRO) to extend the nomination period for some positions over the weekend, and changes to the timing of elections has led to students running in constituencies they do not yet live in. In an email to candidates, SAC CRO David Summerby-Murray wrote that
the number of candidates did not “give [MASU] a full compliment [sic] for some of our elections,” and extended the nomination period for the positions of North Side Councillor, South Side Councillor, and Arts Senator until March 18. The MASU Bylaws dictate that three North Side Councillors, three South Side Councillors, and two Arts Senators should be elected to sit as members of the SAC, but only four students filed nomination papers for those positions before the close of the nomination period Friday afternoon. Many councillors, whether supporting or opposing the
Entertainment
Pg. 9
restructuring of Council, viewed the reduction in elected SAC positions as a way to increase competition for those positions, one that would hopefully yield more dedicated and competent candidates. However, some felt that the timing of the changes to the election schedule, which went into effect the day nominations opened, contributed to the lack of candidates. “Because it is being implemented so fast, I can foresee that we are not going to get the same numbers that we usually would because there are a smaller number of positions, so the number of people running is also
Sports
going to go down,” said Councillor Andrew Johnston. Councillor Seth Pickard-Tattrie held a similar view. “I’m guessing [that] because of the timing of the changes, there are fewer candidates than we would normally have,” Pickard-Tattrie said, noting that prospective candidates were given only a week and a half to decide whether or not to run. In addition to the lower-thanexpected number of candidates, some students are questioning whether the candidates running
COUNCILLORS PAGE 4
Features
Pg. 15
Pg. 18
NEWS A THE
March 21, 2013
argosy@mta.ca
RGOSY
w w w. a r g o s y. c a
Independent Student Newspaper of Mount Allison University Thursday March 21, 2013 volume 142 issue 19 Published since 1875
Circulation 1,800
62 York Street W. McCain Student Centre Mount Allison University Sackville, New Brunswick E4L 1E2
Telephone 506 364 2236
Email argosy@mta.ca
THE ARGOSY is published by Argosy Publications, Inc, a student run, autonomous, apolitical not-for-profit organization operated in accordance with the province of New Brunswick.
THE ARGOSY is a member of the Canadian University Press, a national co-operative of student newspapers.
ISSN 0837-1024
The Underbridge Press is a student-run publishing organization at Mount Allison University.
editorialstaff
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Carly Levy
NEWS EDITOR Emily James
ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR Ian Malcolm
SCIENCE EDITOR Madison Downe
FEATURES EDITOR Ryan Burnham
SPORTS EDITOR Rob Murray HUMOUR EDITOR Lisa Theriault
OPINIONS EDITOR John Trafford
ARTS & LITERATURE EDITOR Bhreagh Macdonald
ONLINE EDITOR Charlotte Henderson
productionstaff PRODUCTION MANAGER Anna Robertson
PHOTO MANAGER Lea Foy
PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Julie Whitenect
PHOTO EDITOR Kory D’Entremont
COPY EDITORS Kyra Jones, Claire Molgat Laurin & Ben Dunfield
ILLUSTRATORS Sally Hill & Katrina Zidichouski
NEWS WRITER Gavin Rea
ENTERTAINMENT WRITER Kent Blenkhorn
writingstaff POLITICAL BEAT WRITER Richard Kent FEATURES WRITER Jessie Byrne
SPORTS WRITER Wray Perkin SCI/TECH WRITER
MOSAIC hosted their third annual banquet filled with food, entertainment, music, and celebration. (Tracy Bian/Submitted)
MOSAIC hosts third annual banquet Mt. A and Sackville community come together to celebrate Caroline Duda
ARTS WRITER John Fraser
News Contributor
BUSINESS MANAGER ADVERTISING MANAGER Elise Dolinsky Megan Downing
Mount Allison’s Multicultural Organization and Social Arena for International Cooperation (MOSAIC), a student-run organization, held their third annual Banquet last Saturday, March 16. The banquet was a celebration of multiculturalism that included great food and fantastic performances representing many countries around the world. The goals of MOSAIC are to bridge the gap between students from different cultures and to promote multiculturalism and international involvement in the Mt. A and Sackville community. The banquet demonstrated the success of MOSAIC in reaching these goals. The event was held in Jennings Dining Hall, which was beautifully decorated with balloons, globe centrepieces, and colourful paper ornaments that dangled from the ceiling. The room quickly filled with students, professors,
operationsstaff OFFICE MANAGER Mitali Sharan
supportstaff
IT MANAGER
Nigameash Harihar
CIRCULATIONS Kent Blenkhorn
contributors
Allison O’Reilly, Martin Taylor Losier, Andy Schweiz, Omes, Rev. Perkin, Charlie Pat Joyce, Jennifer Singh, Booker, Joshua Carlstrom, Cameron McIntyre, Joanna Viv Steele, Nick Pearce, Perkin, Chris Znick, Dr. janet Melissa Meade, Alex Hammock, Caroline Whidden, Francheville, Pat Allaby, Caroline Duda, Sierra Lundy Emily Hughes, Emily Kervin,
publicationboard Helen Pridmore (Chair), Marilyn Walker, Dan Legere, Filip Jaworski
INSIDE
News Ship’s Log Features Science Opinions Centrefold Arts & Literature Entertainment Sports Humour
2-5 6 7-8 9 10-11 12-13 14-15 17-18 19-21 22-23
and Sackville community members of all ages, many dressed in culturally traditional clothing. The evening started off with a delectable buffet-style dinner. It featured a wide array of dishes from twelve countries around the world. Guests began with a Mexican-style appetizer of chips and salsa. They then had the choice between soups from Thailand and Italy, salad from East Africa, and various main dishes, including choices from Brazil, Spain, India, Iran, China, and Korea, and finished with Canadian Nanaimo bars and Polish apple cake for dessert. Each dish had a unique and delicious flavour, all prepared by MOSAIC members and Jennings staff. “We had around fifteen cooks, and Chef Tom and his crew went above and beyond,” said MOSAIC Vice-President Margaret Kromminga, who coordinated the meal preparation for the event. After dinner was served, there was a lineup of outstanding performances that provided excellent entertainment and a taste of many different cultures from around the world. Mt. A’s International Choir was first to perform, with two members singing a beautiful Japanese duet followed by a rendition of “Brother John” by the whole choir. The audience even joined in. There were many other performances, including a Chinese flute performance, a poetry reading, several dance numbers, a Bengali love song, and
an acoustic version of “Oppan Gangnam Style.” “The performances were so good!” stated Haruho Kubota, the President of MOSAIC. The audience agreed, cheering and applauding enthusiastically after each performance. An award ceremony and a ‘Thank You’ video created by MOSAIC concluded the successful evening. Matali Sharan and Kubota received the Class of ’33 Award for promoting cross-cultural awareness and understanding. The banquet ran smoothly, and guests left satisfied after an evening of great food, entertainment, and mingling. But what guests did not see were the months of hard work and planning behind the scenes. The members of MOSAIC put a lot of time and effort into making sure the event was a success, and this presented challenges at times. “It was hard to get a lot of people at this time of the year. Always having someone at ticket sales was a challenge,” Kromminga said, but in the end, “it has surpassed my expectations.” The banquet proved to be an excellent chance to help bridge the gap between students from different cultures and to promote multiculturalism at Mt. A and within the Sackville community. Kubota claimed that the best part of the experience was the, “teamwork. When everyone does their part, it comes together. And it did.”
disclaimers
The Argosy is the official independent student journal of news, opinion, and the arts, written, edited and funded by the students of Mount Allison University in Sackville, New Brunswick. The opinions expressed herein do not necessarily represent those of the Argosy’s staff or its Board of Directors. The Argosy is published weekly throughout the academic year by Argosy Publications Inc. Student contribution in the form of letters, articles, photography, graphic design and comics are welcome. The Argosy reserves the right to edit or refuse all materials deemed sexist, racist, homophobic, or otherwise unfit for print, as determined by the Editor-in-Chief. Articles or other contributions can be sent to argosy@mta.ca in microsoft word format, or directly to a section editor. The Argosy will print unsolicited materials at its own discretion. Letters to the editor must be signed, though names may be withheld at the sender’s request and at the Argosy’s discretion. Anonymous letters will not be printed.
complaints
Comments , concerns, or complaints about the Argosy’s content or operations should be first sent to the Editor in Chief at the address above. If the Editor-in-Chief is unable to resolve a complaint, it may be taken to the Argosy Publications, Inc. Board of Directors. The chairs of the Board of Directors can be reached at the address above.
copyright
All materials appearing in the Argosy bear the copyright of Argosy Publications, Inc. Material cannot be reprinted without the consent of the Editor- in-Chief.
The Argosy
NEWS
www.argosy.ca
Ombudsperson investigates SAC restructuring Changes to representation drew formal complaint Richard Kent
Political Beat Writer Following the receipt of a formal complaint, the Mount Allison Students’ Union ombudsperson will investigate the Students’ Administrative Council’s (SAC) legislative process. In a short statement, MASU Ombudsperson Rebecca Hebb informed councillors last week that she would investigate the recent controversial changes to Council’s structure and election schedule. Hebb told Council that
3
she would report her findings at the March 20 SAC meeting. A member of MASU filed an anonymous complaint with MASU’s Office of the Ombudsperson last week about the changes to the structure of Council, which reduced the size of Council by four voting members, eliminated residence-specific councillors in favour of North Side and South Side councillors, and reduced quorum for a meeting of Council. While the Office of the Ombudsperson is not vested with any authority to resolve complaints, the ombudsperson can recommend solutions to the SAC. Hebb said that she would review the process by which the SAC amended its structure and compare the findings with best practices from other similar organizations. “I will be identifying which areas [of MASU’s Bylaws and Constitution] Council should look at, and which areas were
why that is not sufficient to look into areas of concern for students,” Hebb the issue … I got the sense that there told The Argosy and elaborated, “who were many students who were not is to say that the way things have one hundred per cent satisfied with been done over the years has been what happened,” the correct way?” Hebb said. “It Hebb said that was something while there was The average student that students had only one formal would not have time to opinions about complaint, her establish an opinion on and an interest consultation [the restructuring], let in, and they with other alone decide whether would have liked students revealed to be consulted. that many they would be good or There was some students were bad for the Students’ consultation, u n c o m f o r t a b l e Union. but it was not with the changes e x haust ive.” to the SAC’s Andrew Johnston A vocal structure. “There Hunton House minority of was one initial complaint. I then Councillor councillors have openly criticized subsequently the process that spoke to other saw the recommendations of the students who agreed, or also Ad-Hoc Committee on Summer expressed opinions. There was only Executive Accountability enacted one formal complaint, but I don’t see
by the SAC, citing an absence of consultation with MASU members. Councillor Andrew Johnston voted against the restructuring; while he believed that the changes to Council would make MASU’s Executive more accountable, he did not think that students had been given adequate time to consider the changes. “The average student would not have time to establish an opinion on [the restructuring], let alone decide whether they would be good or bad for the students’ union,” Johnston said. The investigation is the ombudsperson’s second foray into the Council restructuring. Prior to the March 13 meeting of Council, Hebb alerted SAC Chair Giacomo Vecia to the conflict between MASU’s constitution and a bylaw attempting to lower quorum for SAC meetings, forcing the repeal of the quorum change.
be armed with a syringe infected with HIV. Employees described him as tall and wearing sunglasses and a hoodie. He demanded narcotics from the two female pharmacists on duty. The pharmacists refused and called the store manager, Aaron Lloyd, who chased them out of the store and down the street. James Steeves and Cheryl Sears were the two Jean Coutu employees on duty at the time of the attempted robbery. “The pharmacy girls had the worst of it,” said Sears. “I just took care of the cleanup, fixing the door they broke on the way out. But when they called Aaron up,
that’s when shit hit the fan and people started running. It’s a small town; the robber didn’t realize that people don’t always back down.” “The girls called me up and said there was a young man who wanted some drugs,” said Steeves. “I never actually saw the syringe,” claimed Steeves, “so I wouldn’t let him have them. We were far enough away from him that we could keep surveillance on him.” They called the police immediately, and all nearby officers responded, establishing a perimeter to prevent anyone from leaving the area. The robber discarded his toque
and other clothing and attempted to get away, but was held up by the officers. The RCMP’s Police Dog Service tracked the man from his discarded clothes to the perimeter and arrested him. Three other men were arrested a short time later after being spotted by a Sackville resident who saw them entering a vehicle. “We had tremendous support from the public on this case,” said Sergeant Jamie Graves. It was later discovered that one of the men had been in the store at the time of the robbery on lookout. All four men appeared in Moncton Provincial Court the
next day to face charges related to the robbery, and have since had a bail hearing last Monday. They are all currently in custody. The four men arrested ranged in age from twenty-three to fiftyseven years old and were identified as Clinton Blecher, Jaime Culleton, Faren Reeves, and Blaine Bell. All were from outside New Brunswick— three from Prince Edward Island, one from British Columbia. The men have past criminal records.
Suspects threaten pharmacy staff with syringe Four out-ofprovince men face charges Gavin Rea
News Writer
According to the police report filed by Sgt. Paul Ouellette of the Sackville RCMP, a man entered Jean Coutu pharmacy on Main Street in Sackville on March 14, shortly after 2:00 pm, claiming to
Dion gives final talk of President’s Speaker Series Improving Canadian democracy through reform Gavin Rea
News Writer
The President’s Speakers Series concluded last Thursday in Brunton Auditorium. The final installment featured Stéphane Dion, former leader of the Liberal Party of Canada. Dion delivered a candid speech on electoral reform, which included his view on the pitfalls of current proposals under the Harper Administration and his own plans for a semi-proportional voting system. “Can electoral reform re-involve Canadians in their government? Yes, if done correctly,” Dion said and continued, “what tells us that we need to involve Canadians in their government? Recent studies have shown that the average citizen’s satisfaction with their government has dropped from seventy per cent to fifty per cent in the past couple of years.” Dion cautioned that not all institutional reforms are for the best. According to the MP, reforms often end up complicating things and
introducing unintentional gridlock to an already struggling bureaucracy. Dion cited proposed changes to the Canadian Senate, which would see Senators elected rather than appointed, as one such mistake. In the past, the Senate has always deferred to the House of Commons stance on bills, since they more accurately represent the Canadian people. “I can count the number of times the Senate has blocked a bill from the house since World War II on one hand,” said Dion. He claimed that changing their positions from appointed to elected would serve only to create the same partisan gridlock that plagues the US government. The US House of Representatives and the Senate are at odds because they hold different majorities, making it impossible for them to pass necessary laws like an acceptable budget. “Introducing this system to Canada would be a mistake,” said Dion. However, Dion did believe that careful electoral reform was possible, and proposed his own two-part plan to change Canada’s current system to semi-proportional elections. First, he proposed to lower the number of ridings per province, preventing unfair boundaries that can lead to parties with less than half the popular vote winning nearly all of the parliamentary seats. The second part of Dion’s plan introduces ranked ballots in national elections. “People have argued that
President’s Speakers Series concluded with Stéphane Dion last Thursday. (Sierra Lundy/ Submitted) this method is too complicated, but I believe it is not beyond the reach of the average Canadian. You simply rank the competing parties by preference and rank the officials within your top party. Simple,” he explained. In this system, the party with the smallest votes is dropped and its votes reassigned to the next preferred party until the correct number of parties exist. People who might vote green, for instance, would not lose their vote if their party did not win; the vote would be reassigned to their next preference. This could potentially increase the
voter’s investment in the outcome. The ranked ballot system would also decrease political attack ads, as politicians need voters from other parties to consider them as a valid second choice. While proportional representation seems like the most democratic choice, Dion agued that it was dangerous on the grounds that it could divide parties along geographic lines, as is the current case in Belgium. Semi-proportional elections force parties to be national by appealing to the needs of each province across the country.
Changes will not take effect by the next election, but Dion hopes that candidates will run with it in their platforms. “Normally, parties who are in power don’t pursue electoral reforms, so, as a Liberal, I have my work cut out for me to convince my own party that this is a good idea.” Dion concluded his speech with a question and answer period in which he further explained and defended his plan. “The system I have proposed may seem complicated,” admitted Dion, “but it is a change that Canada needs.”
4
NEWS
March 21, 2013
argosy@mta.ca
Councillors now elected in spring Continued from cover for off-campus councillor have the experience necessary to represent their constituents. Nick Sleptov, a third-year student living off-campus, said he was uncomfortable voting for a candidate for off-campus councillor if the candidate had never lived off-campus. “Have they had to deal with landlords, or truly experienced
the concerns of off-campus students? The only way they could get my vote is if they lived off-campus before living in residence,” said Sleptov. Others feel that the differences between on- and off-campus issues are marginal, and that the amount of time a student has spent living on- or off-campus is irrelevant. “Plenty of off-campus councillors used to run in the fall elections when they’d only lived off-campus for a few weeks. I’m
not sure the amount of time spent living off-campus is relevant to their candidacy. Plus, I don’t feel the issues are all that different between on- and off-campus,” said Ethan Duffany, a fourth-year student living off-campus, who elaborated that academic issues and a willingness to work with university administration were more important to him than housing issues. MASU members will vote March 27 and 28.
Lessons from New Orleans Kristina Ford set to speak at Mount Allison Trevor Donald
News Contributor On Thursday, March 28, there will be a public speaking lecture by Kristina Ford. Ford was the New Orleans Director of Planning from 1992 until 2000. Hurricane Katrina and Rita hit the city in 2005 with devastating effects that the city is still recovering from today after the levees built to protect the city from flooding failed. Ford has been in a unique position to use her experience to engage discussions and write a book on the realities of city planning. In The Trouble with City Planning, she
uses the experience of rebuilding New Orleans after the devastation of Hurricane Katrina as a case study on why city planners are in trouble, and what they can do about it. Governments today are trying to deal with the very real future problems of sea-level rise and increased storm frequencies in coastal areas. Most of us know of the tragic failure of multiple levels of government in New Orleans to respond adequately to the disaster, compounding the losses caused by nature and the failure of engineering. The town of Sackville could benefit from her advice as the Tantramar region, the province of New Brunswick and the other Maritime provinces deal with many of the issues faced by New Orleans. Ford holds a Ph.D in Urban and Regional Planning from the University of Michigan, and was, until her full-time entry into public service in 1983, an associate
professor at the Graduate School of Public Administration at New York University. From 2010 to 2011, Ford was chief of staff for New Orleans’s deputy mayor in charge of public facilities, infrastructure, and community development. She is currently a professor in the School of International and Public Affairs at Columbia University in New York City. I was able to sit down with Ford for an exclusive interview on adaptation planning issues specific to the Tantramar region. Look for it in the March 27 edition of the Sackville Tribune Post This event is sponsored by Mount Allison’s Department of Geography and Environment and RCE (Regional Centre of Expertise) Tantramar. The talk will take place at 7:00 pm in the Dunn Building, room 113 - The Wu Centre at Mt. A.
Ohio students convicted in rape trials
Two high school football players in Steubenville, Ohio, have been found guilty of raping a sixteen-year-old girl at a party last August. The case sparked a national controversy following the emergence of images and postings on social media. On Sunday, the two teenagers were convicted of sexually assaulting the victim, who witnesses testified was too drunk to move or speak.
EU bailout sparks panic in Cyprus
A European Union bailout plan is sparking wide financial panic in Cyprus. The EU is demanding Cyprus impose a universal, one-time tax on all Cypriot bank deposits as a condition for thirteen billion dollars in rescue money. The plan led to massive bank withdrawals as Cypriots rushed to protect their savings. Cyprus took the unprecedented step on Monday of closing its banks until Thursday as officials scrambled to renegotiate the terms of the bailout. Cyprus has situated itself as a tax haven to attract international deposits, particularly from Russia, into a banking system that is now at least eight times the size of the country’s economy.
Mexican religious fireworks explosion
Students start pollinator garden Mt. A students receive $1,000 grant from Grassroots
As of Sunday, the death toll had risen to sixteen and number of injured increased to 154 after a truck carrying fireworks to a religious procession exploded Friday in the central Mexican city of Nativitas. One of the fireworks went astray and landed in a truck carrying a significant amount of other fireworks.
Rally against US presence in Afghanistan
Hundreds of residents of the Afghan province of Wardak rallied in front of the parliament in Kabul over the weekend in protest of the continued presence of US forces in their country. Afghan President Hamid Karzai has banned US special forces from Wardak amidst allegations concerning the disappearances of nine Afghan civilians. The US military appears to be ignoring the ban, leading to the protest over the weekend. The protestors were peaceful but shouted anti-US slogans and demanded the release of the nine locals, whom they believe are in the custody of US forces.
Emily James News Editor
Mount Allison students Madeleine Crowell, Jasmine Hunter, and Mesha Sagram received a 1,000-dollar grant from Grassroots to start a pollinator garden on campus. The grant is going towards the supplies they will need to make the garden— labour, tools, compost, and plants. The garden is planned be located near the King Street parking lot. The pollinator garden project started when the three Mt. A students took an environmental activism class with geography professor, Dr. Bradley Walters. Sagram was already part of a group on campus called Edible Ethics, which promotes organic food, local food, and conscious consumers, and the three students wanted to do a project that tied in with Edible Ethics. “The garden is a pollinator garden, so it would mostly be [for] bees, but it also includes butterflies, birds, bats, beetles,” said Crowell. “It is a way to provide habitats for them.” Pollinators are considered to be keystone species in the world’s ecosystems, and without the many pollinator species,
Caroline Whidden
Sally Hill/Argosy the ecosystem as a whole would collapse. Pollinators help maintain balance in nature and are vital for sustaining healthy ecosystems. “This is a global issue that is happening everywhere. Bees are on a decline, generally, based on human effects such as pesticides and the fact that the climate is changing,” Crowell continued, explaining, “the bees cannot handle these stresses, and they are dying off or are not able to pollinate as effectively as they used to.” Hunter said the best way for Sackville locals to make a difference in terms of pollination is to keep some lawn areas un-mowed and stop using pesticides in their gardens and yards. Pesticides can be very harmful and deadly to pollinators, who will later alight on the sprayed plants and ingest tainted nectar or pollen. If pesticides must be used, use fast-acting, short-residual options. It is suggested to use small amounts applied on specific spots, and only apply after sundown, when
most pollinators are not active. Pollination is key to the food industry as well. Practically everything is connected to pollination in some way, from grains that are self-pollinated or wind-pollinated to animal products such as beef, pork, and dairy. “Every third bite of food you eat is pollinated,” Hunter said. As for the course itself, it was a hands-on class that creates projects, plans them, and then puts them into action. “It was a really loose course,” Crowell said. “We all grouped together, and we had an issue and we created a project around it,” she explained. Other environmental activism projects that developed out of the course and were popular around Sackville were ‘Ban Shark Fin Soup’ and ‘Ban Plastic Bags’ campaigns. The students hope the garden will maintain itself as much as possible, but they are still looking for volunteers. If any community member or student is interested, email Hunter at jnhunter@mta.ca.
China looks to melting Arctic
China is increasingly looking northwards to fulfill its growing economic needs for minerals and oil. China has been initiating diplomatic connections with Arctic countries as part of its effort to secure a permanent observer status on the Arctic Council, an eight-country political body that decides regional policy. Currently, eighty per cent of China’s imported energy passes through the crowded and heavily-pirated Strait of Malacca that passes Singapore. But over the past few years, melting Arctic ice has turned the north into a viable shipping route. China has taken a recent interest in Greenland, which is planning to approve a mining project that would supply China with iron ore.
Syrian Opposition names PM
Syria’s opposition National Coalition has chosen a prime minister to head a government for rebel-held regions. Ghassan Hitto, a Damascus-born IT expert who has spent decades in the US, was elected at a meeting of coalition leaders in Istanbul. Some senior Coalition leaders withdrew from the vote in protest over Hitto’s lack of military experience. Hitto’s first task will be to form a government to oversee services in areas captured from Syrian government forces. Meanwhile, the US stated earlier this week that they would not stand in the way of other countries arming Syrian rebels. Last week, France and the UK said they support lifting the EU arms embargo on Syria to allow weapons to reach anti-government forces. EU foreign ministers are expected to discuss the Syrian arms embargo at a meeting later this week and vote on the topic in May.
Graphic by Katrina Zidichouski
OPINIONS
March 21, 2013
argosy@mta.ca
What do you think of the MASU council changes?
“It’s probably not the best idea; the complaints of each house won’t be heard as well.”
“Each residence is very different and has different concerns.”
-Myra McNaughton
-Patricia Lawrenz
“To be honest, I’m kind of indifferent. I don’t know enough about the old structure to know what will be affected.” -Ryan Mitchell
“I can understand how too many people trying to make decisions can be endless.”
“Really indifferent. I really had no idea we had offcampus councillors.”
-Justin Thomas
-Jeff Lawrence
Brutal bullying at Mt. A Mt. A needs a fall reading week Brutal of the Year is bullying by another name, not a joke John Trafford
Opinions Editor
It’s no secret that Mt. A is home to an extraordinary amount of talented individuals, and it makes perfect sense, then, that each year Mt. A students should honour their own with some kind of recognition for their achievements. The annual ASCARS recognize everything from Mountie of the Year to Residence of the Year, but one award has absolutely no place at Mt. A: Brutal of the Year. Brutal of the Year is designed to recognize an individual or group that did something so extraordinarily stupid or gross (brutal, if you will) that it would be the scuttlebutt on campus for months to come. I hate to rain on the parade that is the ASCARS but this award amounts to nothing more than bullying. “Oh, come on now, John, it’s just some light-hearted fun, and besides, who takes that award seriously anyway?” might be a typical response to criticisms of this award. I’m sure that this award is just some light hearted fun for everyone sitting in the audience laughing at someone who has in some way humiliated themselves in some form over the course of the year. Haven’t we all embarrassed ourselves at some point at Mt. A? For most of us, I think it is safe to assume that we don’t want our dirty laundry to be aired for a crowd in Con Hall to have a good hearty laugh about.
Correction
To be fair, if one is nominated for Brutal of the Year and doesn’t feel comfortable with this, the person has the option to have their name taken off the nomination list. However, I don’t think that the option of turning down the nomination in anyway justifies laughing at a fellow student for something embarrassing in their past, whether or not they relish the negative attention they are receiving. What needs to be understood here is that what this award boils down to is students laughing at other students, disregarding the fact that they themselves have also done extremely embarrassing things in the past. I’ve been known to share embarrassing stories, but when I do, I do so with friends who understand me and wouldn’t ever think of judging me for things in my past. The difference between accepting Brutal of the Year and sharing an embarrassing story with friends is that friends don’t judge, but many in the audience at the ASCARS will most certainly be judging the recipient of such an award. Whether we like to admit it or not, this award amounts to bullying and its something we should all be appalled by. If a person is being bullied but plays along with the bullies are they not still being bullied? The answer to this question is of course yes, and so, even if a person is willing to accept their Brutal of the Year nomination they are still being subjected to bullying. Awards should celebrate achievements, not embarrassing moments. Awards should be about respecting one’s peers, not bullying them. It is my hope that anyone nominated for this year’s Brutal of the Year will have the good sense to know that they are being bullied and politely refuse to cooperate.
In the March 14 issue of The Argosy, a letter titled “Discriminatory institutions shouldn’t receive public funds” was incorrectly attributed to Dr. Janet Hammock. Dr. Eldon Hay is the actual author of this letter. See page 7 for Hammock’s letter.
It would have made first semester all the better Andy Schweiz
Opinions Correspondent I write this a mere two weeks removed from having returned to classes after a week-long break. Having a nineday hiatus from the typical weekly schedule seemed to be exactly what I needed. I have noticed that during my first year at Mt. A, my luck regarding time off has been impeccable. During the moments in which I have found myself dragging my body up the stairs of Windsor Hall, saying, “I need a break,” I have been graced by a cancelled class or a weekend, or in one case, a ‘snow-morning’. The week of February 17 to 23 essentially sapped my soul’s energy right out of me. And of course, the winter reading break gave me the salvation I, and every other Mt. A student, deserved. Seriously. Every second of those nine days off was necessary in order to maintain life itself. Whether the time off serves as a break from reading or as a week dedicated to catching up on reading, its perfect timing and duration, as any student should be able to tell you, yielded positive effects. Personally, I used the week as an escape from the grind of the semester. I spent the week living life as if I were an unemployed nineteen-year-old with nothing to do, and I went back to class on March 4 feeling completely relaxed. In fact, the last two weeks of classes have been miraculously productive. But, is it truly miraculous? I remember in the fall semester how I became increasingly homesick. It was around my birthday in late October and into early November when I most felt the bleakness of reality. I had upcoming deadlines on papers, I was running out of money, and I was falling behind on course
This should be a part of first semester. (Kory d’Entremont/Argosy) readings. As an English major, all three of these issues proved to be a bit much for me to handle. I missed my friends, family, and the skyline of Vancouver. But, as I found out and then rediscovered every single day, life (in the fall semester) doesn’t slow down for anybody. It became a real struggle trying to balance my responsibilities as a student with the emotions of being a human being. In fact, the two never really meshed and just simply being happy became an issue. Of course, this made being productive as a student all the more difficult. One could argue that since this is my first year at Mt. A, a lot of my anxiety was a result of being away from home for the first time, and already having a semester of experience is the reason I am much more composed this time around. But this is my second year of post-secondary education. My previous institution also lacked a fall reading break, and I felt the
same emotional stress then as well. If one might suggest that there is no correlation between strengthened mental health and the presence of a winter reading break, since anxieties may be lessened with familiarity of the routine of the school year, then why does the winter reading break exist in the first place? Additionally, whether or not a fall reading week in late October or early November would improve the mental wellbeing of students, why are universities willing to risk it? February is New Brunswick’s ‘Suicide Prevention Month’, but depression, just like life in the fall semester, does not slow down for anybody. The vast majority of students should agree that the benefits of a fall reading break would ultimately be wellworth any uncertainties there might be regarding its implementation.
The Argosy
OPINIONS
www.argosy.ca
In response to Natalie Brunet
On the satellite house closures
First and foremost, I love opening The Argosy and seeing people talk about the SAC. It is few and far between that people take notice and get vocal. Secondly, I want to make it very clear that the opinions expressed within this article are mine, personally, as a student, and do not reflect the opinions of Council. In the most recent edition of The Argosy, a letter to the editor was written ridiculing the SAC for the decision to change Council. This letter is not to contest that opinion. As written in a different article by Richard Kent, some councillors were against the change too. Instead, this article is to contest some of the statements made within the article. With references made to focus groups, student opinions, and even a referendum, it is clear that Ms. Brunet feels like what Council did was improper and ill-advised. The fact of the matter is, it is the job of Council to enact these changes for its benefit. Councillors were elected to make these decisions because in being a part of the system, councillors know what reworkings will allow for a more functional Council. What
After reading in The Argosy this week that the satellite houses would be closed, I was shocked not only that the university is closing any residences, but such beautiful ones. Although I do not live in a satellite house, when I applied last year for Anchorage and Bermuda Houses, I was not placed in either. Bermuda House, although newly renovated, had been closed for the year, and Anchorage House, as it was explained to me, was mainly for returning students, and as a first year, I would probably not enjoy it. Most of the rooms in Anchorage had already been taken, and there were only spots for a few males left; as the university explained to me, they wanted to have an even number of boys and girls in the house. Having said all of this, I don’t think that the problem is that the satellite houses are unpopular; I simply don’t think that the university advertises them enough. Being in my first year, I remember taking the time to find the right residence for me. Although I am from Sackville originally, I did not even know that the satellite houses existed as residences
was done was exactly what Council is tasked to do, exactly what Council was elected to do, and it did not come from out of the ether. Council had a committee working on this practically since September. Another point brought up was the reduction of off-campus councillors to six. If that number seems low, it is equal to the amount of on-campus councillors, just like it is now (nine and nine). Finally, what I found the most jarring and could not let go uncorrected is the closing statement about voting down SAC quorum. That was not quorum for the SAC to get together and pass laws; that was quorum for students to assemble and overthrow the governing body should they be acting against student interest. What was voted down was the ability to kick Council out and take control, but don’t worry. The question will be back this election, because Council wants students to have that power. After all, it’s in our best interest. -Chris Zinck
7
until a student told me so. Potential students are not shown the satellite houses on tours, and they are not advertised very well. Before shutting these residences down, I think that the university should put more effort into trying to advertise these residences for anyone, particularly frosh or upper year transfer students, or even students who do not want to stay in residence, but cannot find an apartment or suitable roommates. I truly think that these houses could be valuable and popular houses if they were shown in the right light and if the university showed its students and potential students its true values. Again, although I do not live in a satellite house, I did at one point want to. I have found a great residence on campus (Edwards House) that I truly enjoy living in. But I think that it is only fair to the residents of the satellite houses, and to the people that do not enjoy living in bigger residences, to keep these houses open. -Joanna Perkin
Consultation does not equal getting what you want I write in reply to Natalie Brunet’s letter on SAC council changes in the March 14 issue. Brunet claims to be “appalled that council approved this new by-law without formally consulting students on this subject.” I take issue with the claim that Council approved this without consulting students for a few reasons. First, during the debate on this amendment, residence councillors iterated that they felt there was a benefit to having a councillor for each individual residence because of the ability to directly consult their constituents. Further, the MASU bylaws describe two of the responsibilities of both residence and offcampus councillors as “be[ing] an informed advocate of student concerns and issues” and “be[ing] responsible for accurate and regular communication of MASU policies and decisions to her/his constituents.” The responsibility of consultation lies with councillors. If Brunet–
or any student–takes issue with a lack of consultation, the issue is with their councillor(s). With that said, I am doubtful that there was any lack of consultation done by councillors. The vast majority of the councillors who spoke in Council on the night this amendment was passed, both in support and in opposition, indicated that they had consulted constituents. The problem with Brunet’s characterization of consultation is that it assumes homogeneity among a constituency. Being consulted is not the same as getting what you want, because what you want may not be the same as what others in your constituency want. You elect your councillors to make decisions for you. If they consult you and actively seek your opinion, good on them. But it doesn’t mean they need to agree with you when they vote. After all, they got elected to represent the interests of their constituents; you didn’t. Brunet goes on to make numerous misleading
factual errors. Brunet claims that “[s]tudents have already proven their ability to think critically in regards to the SAC when they voted down the proposal to lower the quorum for a SAC meeting in the last elections.” First, this referendum question was not on quorum for SAC meetings, it was on quorum for meetings of the Membership, i.e. all students. Second, students did not “vote down” this proposal; 53.9 per cent of students voted in favour of the proposal and only 20.2 per cent voted against, but 25.8 per cent abstained. The proposal was in no way “voted down;” it simply failed to pass because too many voters abstained–in other words, voted neither for nor against the question. My final point is on accountability. In 2011, the MASU drafted a new Constitution. This new Constitution saw Council structure removed from the Constitution and moved into the bylaws, where it would become the discretion
Response to the Crandall Scandal Letter Recently,The Argosy published a letter by Dr.Eldon Hay, Professor Emeritus of Religious Studies at Mount A, which I read with considerable interest. In no particular order, I am the leader of PFLAG Canada, Sackville/Amherst Chapter, a lesbian woman, and Professor Emeritus of Music at Mount Allison. As you might imagine, I have a strong opinion on this contentious issue of publicly funding a university at which I could not apply for a job of any kind, and have been quite vocal about it in various ways over the past five or six years. Dr. Hay’s letter to The Argosy (which was also published in full in the Sackville Tribune Post, and later a shorter version in the Moncton Times & Transcript) points out that the Human Rights Act of NB protects the rights of religious institutions to deny equal rights to whomever they wish as long as it springs from faith-based reasons. He and many others–including this writer–have been disturbed that for several years Crandall accepted a 150,000-dollar annual grant from the city of Moncton while denying employment to an important segment of that city’s tax-paying citizens–GLBT persons. Dr. Hay notes that Dr. Fawcett, the new president, declined the grant in 2012, saying that the controversy was “a distraction.” The president indicated that he would review the situation in 2013, prompting Rev. Hay to ask the obvious question: “Will Crandall’s retraction be retained?” and to offer his opinion
that the days of a “private discriminating university receiving public funds are over.” Dr. Fawcett’s recent published response to Eldon Hay’s letter (Sackville TribunePost February 13, and the Moncton Times & Transcript, February 15) begins with high praise for Dr. Hay as a scholar, researcher, writer, and teacher. He provides background information about Crandall University, mentioning that some faith-based institutions in Canada receive public funding. He states that Crandall is an “important partner in New Brunswick society.” (I assume he means the segment of NB society that is not GLBT.) Crandall, because it is faith-based, saves New Brunswickers millions of dollars, Fawcett enthuses. From this point on, Dr. Fawcett veers off in a disturbing direction. First of all, he says that in his letter Rev. Hay “calls” for Crandall to “abandon its lifestyle convictions.” Did he really? I reread Hay’s letter carefully, searching for his “call,” but it was not to be found. Quite the opposite. Hay wrote that because a segment of the population is discriminated against in Crandall’s hiring practices–its protected right to do so enshrined in the Human Rights Act of NB–he applauds Dr. Fawcett’s decision this year not to take public funding from Moncton, and hopes this will continue in future years. Prof. Hay writes with exceptional skill and clarity, so it surprises me that a university president was unable to grasp this important difference. Or did he?
In the closing few sentences Dr. Fawcett sternly instructs Prof. Hay and all the rest of us who don’t agree with public funding going to Crandall in the future, and who say so publicly, to “cease to promote discrimination against Crandall and its supporters.” Fawcett warns that our continuing to speak out would be “a form of harassment and...religious persecution.” Shaking a finger at us pesky public thorns in his tender side, he says “it would be better” for “critics” to stop criticizing, and instead to just learn to live with it. Wow! As an academic myself, I believe his hope that critics will cease and desist is the exact opposite of what a true academic would want. Debate and the expression of differing points of view is encouraged–in fact, expected– at all respected universities the world over. Sure, it’s sometimes very upsetting to hear opposing viewpoints to one’s own; that’s why we have the tenure system at universities–to protect those who express highly unpopular points of view. While many of us believe that when we see an injustice, we should fight it in words and in action, most of us lack the tenacity of Eldon Hay. He’s like the proverbial dog with a bone–he just doesn’t let go. He doesn’t forget. He doesn’t get lazy. I can imagine it must feel extremely uncomfortable to be caught in the glare of Eldon Hay’s principled spotlight as Crandall University has been for the past few years. I live in a deeply loving partnership with a woman, and I am offended that Dr. Fawcett
of Council itself and no longer subject to a referendum. The MASU consulted extensively with students on its new Constitution, which passed with eighty-one per cent support of students in a student-wide referendum. As a councillor, Natalie Brunet voted in favour of this new Constitution. She also voted in favour of the wording of the referendum question put forth to all students, which, I repeat, passed with an overwhelming majority. As recently as two years ago, students made it abundantly clear that Council should have jurisdiction over its structure without requiring a referendum. Council had two weeks to consult its members on the change to Council structure and councillors clearly and publicly stated that they did. Council is elected to make decisions it feels are in the best interests of the MASU; in amending the structure of Council, we did just that. -Pat Joyce
downgrades our relationship to a “lifestyle.” That trivial Hollywoodish term for GLBT persons that’s bandied about on casual TV shows, talk radio, and now in writing by a university president, is insulting. I am not leading a “lifestyle;” I am living my life. My being a lesbian is not a choice, a fad, or a frivolous fashion I am trying on, tra-la, like the flavour of the week. I hope that Dr. Fawcett will thoughtfully reconsider his use of this dismissive word to describe loving same-sex and transgender relationships. In closing, I urge the university community to read Chaplain Dr. John Perkin’s insightful column Through Stained Glass in the February 14 Argosy, Mount Allison University’s student newspaper. He asks us to ponder the idea that the expression of deep love of another through the act of sex is a profoundly spiritual thing. It’s a beautifully written article and made me feel blessed that I have experienced such a love with my partner Marilyn for the past seventeen years. John Perkin understands that the sexual act between two people who love each other deeply can be a transcendental, spiritual experience. There is a stark contrast between Rev. Perkin’s understanding of sex and spirituality and Dr. Fawcett’s. Both men are Christians, both are Baptists,both read the Bible and seek to understand and follow its teachings as best they can, yet one excludes some people, while the other, like Jesus, opens his arms in love to all of God’s children. -Janet Hammock
ENTERTAINMENT
March 21, 2013
argosy@mta.ca
Measuring time with coffee spoons at the Black Duck Baby Eagle and Amanda Jernigan team up for show Ian Malcolm Entertainment Editor Bongos, berets, and celebratory fingersnapping were all but entirely absent at the crowded Black Duck Inn on Saturday evening. It was a fitting state of affairs, however, as poet Amanda Jernigan and singer-songwriter Steve Lambke skillfully subverted any expectations attached to a coffeehouse performance. While space was tight and quarters were close, the intimate environment of this twoperson show more than compensated. Mount Allison alumna Amanda Jernigan has already made a name for herself on the national stage with 2011’s Groundwork—a collection of poems that defines itself in opposition to Romantic and beat clichés. “Jernigan’s poems exalt nature without requiring a retreat into selfaggrandizing prophecies,” the Quill & Quire writes of her debut. “As
Poet Amanda Jernigan and singer-songwriter Steve Lambke played a packed house. (Lea Foy/Argosy) the title suggests, the poems stoop down to observe the world from the ground level.” Understandably, then, “down to earth” serves as an apt description of both her poetic style and on-stage demeanour. With her infant son in tow, Jernigan—who was visiting Sackville as a keynote speaker at the weekend’s Annual Atlantic Undergraduate English Conference—
read selections from Groundwork, the audience’s eager silence punctuated only by the occasional hiss from an espresso machine. After a quick break, Steve Lambke took to the stage—which was, in reality, more of a relatively empty space in front of two bookshelves. After a glowing introduction by Sackville’s jack-of-all-musical-trades
Paul Henderson, the shy-looking man with the guitar quickly became the centre of attention. With all the stage presence of a high-schooler at his first open mic night, some would be surprised to learn that Steve Lambke, who records under the name Baby Eagle, is both co-owner of local record-label success-story You’ve Changed and former frontman
of the Constantines. After a quick mumble about how he shouldn’t have worn a sweater, the music began. A performance by Baby Eagle can be best described as quiet. With fingers barely brushing the guitar strings and a voice that strained to leave the confines of his throat, Lambke’s barely-audible solo performance nonetheless kept audiences on the edge of their seats, if only to strain their ears trying to listen. A fan and devotee, unnamed by request, explained to me afterward that Baby Eagle’s appeal is “more about his lyrical charm than technical proficiency.” However, I found myself both struggling to hear the supposedly all-important lyrics and distracted by Lambke’s lack of tonal centre.While the subdued is effective when contrasted against large-scale bombast, fortyfive minutes of ultra-minimal guitar work and whispers is enough to make even the most direct attention wander. Within this eager and receptive audience, though, it’s safe to say that I, in my skepticism, was an outlier. As the show wrapped itself up and the wool- and flannel-clad audience took to the street for a collective smoke-break, I found myself hoping that a pairing this interesting would take place in the future.
Express and Company
Galaxius Mons
Shlohmo
Jerusalem in my Heart
Ontario
Galaxius Mons
Laid Out EP
Mo7it al-Mo7it
Seventh Fire Records
Self-released
Friends of Friends / Wedidit
Constellation
From the clutches of Peterborough natives Express and Company comes their debut album, appropriately titled Ontario. A mix of folk and country with slight Celtic undertones provided by fiddle player Melissa Payne, Ontario is a nostalgic flashback to a more simple and traditional period of music. Singer Dylan Ireland has a rough yet soothing voice imbued with a slight country twang. With their banjos and dual-harmony vocals, Express and Company’s style sounds similar to the popularizers of modern folk, Mumford and Sons. Highlights of the album “Out of the Trees” and “Tall, Tall Pines” demonstrate a cohesive group effort. With Ontario, Express and Company manage to create a debut album worthy of a listen.
Common knowledge states that if you smash two awesome things together, you get something doubly so, and Galaxius Mons’s self-titled debut only confirms this. On it, Matt LeGroulx of EXPWX and Chairs’s Ian Jarvis combine their home-grown synth jams to create a piece of truly compelling synth-pop that squelches like some lost era of analogue shoegaze. Highlight “Aquarium Domes” is a piece of catchy psychedelia that, unlike many of their contemporaries, doesn’t pander to an overtly ernest embrace of pop signifiers. “Cup My Aching Mind (Crazy Epitaph)” sputters like a burning Game Boy toward a barely-contained epileptic finale. For a self-released first effort, Galaxius Mons is top-of-the-shelf quality with an aesthetic pulled from the deepest bargain bin.
When asked about Laid Out’s strange cover, Californian producer Shlohmo described himself as anti-design—more inspired by failed attempts than immaculate presentation. Nothing could be farther than the truth when it comes to his music, however. With skewed, distorted beats leaning between minimalism and a stuffed-to-the-brim kitchen-sink approach, Laid Out represents the most polished of the influential producer’s releases so far. The chopped-up, skittering R&B samples remain a cornerstone of the Shlohmo sound, but track “Don’t Say No” employs vocals from How To Dress Well’s Tom Krell. Clear album standout “Later” is composed of wordless croons that build toward an evocative finale. It’s evident that this antiaesthete has new tricks up his sleeve.
A spectacular blend of Middle-Eastern and electronic music, Mo7it al-Mo7it is the debut recording of Jerusalem in my Heart, a long-time fixture in Montreal’s independent music scene. As with many releases under the Constellation Records label, this LP comes across highly politically-charged with powerful undertones to the music, leaving a lasting impression of suffering and longing. By combining mesmerizing Arabic singing with a modern electronic backing, the music soothes while simultaneously prompting thought. As a whole it comes across as something with a weighty meaning to it. The album has a very distinct Godspeed You! Black Emperor feel to it, as do much of Constellation’s artists and bands. However, the political issues it touches upon makes it even more potent.
-Jennifer Singh
-Ian Malcolm
-Ian Malcolm
-Cameron McIntyre
≈ ≈
≈ ≈
≈ ≈
≈ ≈
The Argosy
ENTERTAINMENT
www.argosy.ca
Profs, prog-rock, and pepperoni pretzels at Pickles
9
Rocket Culture and Tantrum Art play Pickles show Kent Blenkhorn Entertainment Writer Pickles was packed to the gills Saturday night when the sandwich shop served up two unconventional acts alongside their usual menu of Salami Pretzels and Sappy Snackers. Rocket Culture and Tantrum Art took centre-deli, and brought each of their unique sounds to a full house. Like always, tables were cleared in order to fit in the bands, but if this modest-sized venue is going to keep bringing in such a high calibre of talent (let alone one of the group’s size), then they might have to start packing people in behind the counter. Rocket Culture hails from Moncton, New Brunswick, and are a five-piece prog-rock tour-deforce. The band emerged out of some declining Moncton bands such as Fire Story Fire, Secret Agent, The Swiftkicks, The Tireless Sedans, and the Kamikaze Survival Guide. Out of this diverse history, and by some strange fate, Alexandre Ladouceur (guitar, vocals), Ross Cole (synth, keyboard), Colin Gauvin (bass, vocals), Benjamin Buchanan (drums), and Jenna Gallant (keyboard) all came together to make up Rocket Culture. They hit the stage first and came out with a bang. Their intricate and complexly progressive tunes were almost a rude awaking to the Sackville crowd, reminding them that metal is a genre worth considering. Rocket Culture is a mix of progressive rock, metal, industrial, and a pinch of electronica. Lodouceur, the lead guitarist and singer, had his instrument and vocals running through more effects then Daft Punk in a recording studio. They are a truly innovative band with their marriage of genres and technologies. However— and perhaps this is just a consequence of the space—some of the intricacies were lost behind a wall of sound. Also, with such a big band, both in members and in sound, it was hard to hear the vocals in such a small space. This did not faze the band, because they
Veteran jammers Tantrum Art (above) joined forces on Saturday at Pickles with progressive rock noodlers Rocket Culture. (Lea Foy/Argosy) put on a performance that did not disappoint. Surely, the next time they play Sackville, the confines of the local deli won’t be able to hold them back. Next to hit the stage was one of Sackville’s most anticipated new bands, Tantrum Art, comprised of
a local Sackville celebrity, Dave of Pickles, and some profs playing their blend of funk and blues. Tantrum Art, as said, is Dave Hunter on drums; economics professors Frank Strain on guitar, and Stephen Law slapping the bass; Tim Reiffenstein, professor
of geography and environmental studies on the ivory keys; and Ron Kelly Spurles, the Executive Director of the Tantramar Heritage Trust, fills in on the mic from time to time. Hunter started their performance with a communal chant to create
positive vibes so that Ducky’s would open soon. The first thing that stood out when Tantrum Art started playing is that Law can rock it on the bass. A highly entertaining band with an old school sound, they are definitely a group to look out for.
South by Southwest performers from Tantramar to Texas High Canadian turnout at 2013’s SXSW festival Kent Blenkhorn Entertainment Writer Last week, bands from across North America and beyond made the epic journey down south to Austin, Texas, to play at the highly anticipated South by Southwest (SXSW) music festival. This year’s festival officially took place from March 8 to 17, but bands have been on tour all the way down to Texas and then all the way home just for the opportunity to play one of the year’s biggest events.
Beside the festival proper, Austin was buzzing with hot new up-andcoming acts from all over the world throughout the week. This included some Canadian and East Coast bands that made the journey to show off the talent from our part of the world. One of the most famous events occurring at SXSW, at least from a Canadian perspective, was the 2011 reunion of Death From Above 1979, which ended with a riot and, thankfully, resulted in a reunion tour for one of Canada’s favourite hardcore bands. One of the first events to start off the festival’s 2013 offerings is the Canadian Bust BBQ which, this year, featured acts like Hannah Georgas, Paper Lions, Rah Rah, Daniel Romano, Serena Ryder, and Hey Ocean. And these were only a few of the big Canadian names that
rocked the festival. Others included Two Hours Traffic, Said the Whale, The Tom Fun Orchestra, Ron Sexsmith, The Trews and Jenn Grant. Some big names from south of the border also performed at this year’s festival. Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Andrew WK, The Flaming Lips, Third Eye Blind and John Fogerty all performed throughout the week to a staggering fifty thousand people that attended the annual Austin festival. However, what is truly amazing is all of the Canadian acts that made the trip and shared the same bill with some of these huge names in the music industry. If you’re a DJ fan, you could check out Major Lazer, and two of Halifax’s own, hip hop leaders both in Canada and on an international scale, Skratch Bastid and Buck 65 at the same music festival. Or, if punk rock’s your thing, your week
could consist of Iggy Pop and the Stoogies alongside Canadian punk power-duo Japandriods. Tegan and Sara, The Specials, The Sheepdogs, Cold War Kids, Shout Out Out Out, Ra Ra Riot were all playing alongside Mount Allison’s first class bash performers, Keys N Krates. And this list of acts does not account for all of the acts that hit it big over the week and will come up in countless reviews of the festival. SXSW went out with a bang with a performance by Prince and opening act A Tribe Called Quest, a performance which has already received rave reviews. One of the more interesting things a fan and follower of Canadian music could have done, that is, if they did not have the means to make it down to Austin, was to see all of our great bands and artists interact with one another and
their fans over social media. One of PEI’s favourite acts, and a band that has played countless times in Sackville, Two Hours Traffic, got held up at the border with some visa complications and, to their regret, had to cancel a number of shows on the trip to Austin which they informed fans via Twitter. Jenn Grant is another Twitter stronghold and updated her fans as she attended and performed at this year’s festival. However, for someone who was stuck in the cold while all this great music was happening in sunny Texas, this interaction did not make up for actually being there. So next year, when the long cold weeks of February and March get you down, try to make it down and kick off the festival season right at SXSW music festival and experience all this great music congregating in one place.
ARTS & LITERATURE
March 21, 2013
argosy@mta.ca
English department hosts students from Atlantic Canada AAUEC is a smashing success for students Bhreagh MacDonald Arts & Literature Editor This past weekend marked the exciting opportunity for Mount Allison to host the Annual Atlantic Undergraduate English Conference. The three-day conference, which was organized by three Mt. A students, with the help of English Department Head Robert Lapp, provided the opportunity for undergraduate students from universities across Atlantic Canada to present their academic and creative writing in a community setting. The conference included a performance by FLiNT Improv Co., a keynote address by poets Don McKay and Amanda Jernigan, and numerous presentations and panel discussions. Organizer Caroline Wong, along with Bernard Soubry and Karissa Larocque, began work on the conference in September of 2012. “As former participants in previous conferences, we each saw different aspects of the AAUEC—and conferences in general—that we liked, as well as areas for improvement,” said Wong. The diversity of their “triumvirate” was beneficial. Wong noted that “the plurality of our perspectives must have appealed to the English department.” The theme of plurality of thought was echoed through the group’s choice of keynote address. On Saturday morning, the conference goers were treated to a keynote featuring Jernigan and McKay. Each poet read from their works, Groundwork and Paradoxides, respectively. This reading was interspersed with discussion that set the tone for the entire conference. Conference presenter and Mt. A student Daniel Marcotte felt that the set-up of the keynote was intriguing: “They shared poems back and forth. It was like a discussion, but to an audience. That made it really interesting.” For Claire Molgat Laurin, another presenter, McKay and Jernigan created a “nice,
Charlotte Britten presents her essay at the annual conference. (Lea Foy/Argosy) relaxed back-and-forth dialogue. The two of them really related well to one another.” She also found it inspiring, saying that “it made me want to go and check out more of McKay’s poetry.” After finding that at previous conferences it was often difficult to take in as many presentations as was desired, the organizers made changes to the typical programme. “At previous
conferences, we felt frustrated with the number of concurrent sessions…and the need to pick and choose which presentations to attend instead of being able to attend, and learn from, as many as possible,” explained Wong. This influenced the organizers’ idea to divide presentations and discussions into six sections of three panels that were related by theme. Marcotte found that
this system was beneficial because it “facilitated the meeting of like-minded individuals.” For instance, Marcotte presented on Walt Whitman’s reshaping of the American idea of the self. Whitman borrowed from Eastern religions, specifically Hinduism, and in his session, there were two other authors who wrote poems related to Eastern religions. “It was very beneficial to get an understanding of my own writing and my own paper, because everyone brought their own thing to it. I hope that I did the same for them.” Molgat Laurin agreed with Marcotte that communication with other students was the highlight of the conference. “I had some really interesting conversations with students at other schools, not only about their specific topics, but about the different approaches that their English programs have,” she explained. This type of communication is especially essential in a program like English, which is often very independent and personal. According to Marcotte, “events like this remind us that it’s not a personal experience. This is a community and we’re all here for the same reasons…It’s really hard to see that sometimes when you’re sitting in class or writing an essay.” For this conference, organizers tried to differ from previous conferences in specific ways. “Perhaps the biggest difference between the thirtieth AAUEC and this year’s session was our strong emphasis on the personal, the local, and the non-commercial,” said Wong. To create a more intimate atmosphere, the committee opted to provide billets for guests, as well as lodging at the Black Duck Inn. They held the annual AAUEC dinner at the Sackville Legion and invited guests to a performance by FliNT Improv Co., rather than a formal dinner and dance. Through the hard work of coordinators and presenters, the thirty-first annual AAUEC was a success. Wong says that “for now, we’ve heard nothing but great things from student and faculty members from the other universities. “ She feels that they have contributed to the success of next year’s conference, as well. “I think our committee has managed to introduce, with a lot of effort, some creative ideas and useful improvements to how the conference could be run in future years.”
Movies ruining books we love To whoever that was Anonymous
How movies alter our perceptions of books John Fraser Arts & Literature Writer I recently went to go see The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey and found myself unexpectedly disappointed by some of the scenes. As a book, The Hobbit was a foundation to my younger years. Every single year, from grade six to grade nine, I wrote a book report on The Hobbit. It was the easiest string of book reports I’ve ever done. My memories of The Hobbit though, were vivid, real, and fantastic, from the way I pictured the characters, to the locations, to the emotions I felt at certain places, and so, I had certain expectations for the motion picture. Yet, while I was watching the film, time and time again I thought, “that character is too serious,” or, “this fight scene is over played and way too dramatized,” and even, “how could it possibly be so bright deep inside that cave with no light!?” We’ve all heard it: movies can’t do
books justice. The most recognizable form of this failure to our generation are probably the Harry Potter movies. It just became a prejudice that moviegoers were comfortable with; movies cannot deliver the same experience as a book. While I missed out on the Harry Potter craze, I did go back and start to read them after watching the movies (causing loyal book fans to sigh in sadness), and found it impossible to imagine the characters for myself. Frankly, the cover art of Harry Potter is not outrageously different than Daniel Radcliffe’s portrayal, but it did replace my own interpretations. Nothing was more abrasive, though, than The Lord of the Rings’s rendition of Frodo and Aragorn. I mean, come on, they were nothing like how I pictured them! Yet, going back to the books now, I imagine the movie characters in place of the older forms generated by my own imagination. I want to try to make a case for these movies by showing a few examples that did it right—for example, The Godfather, which was based off the popular 1969 book by Mario Puzo. The Road is another good example, which was an adaptation from Cormac McCarthy’s book whose only significant difference was that the character known as ‘Woman’
was given a bigger role in the book. Finally, perhaps one of best examples of book to movie adaptation is Silence of the Lambs, a chilling thriller that truly does the book justice. Is it possible for every movie based off of a book to do the written word justice? Not at all. Every single person has a different interpretation of scenery, emotion, and imagery. However, careful attention to detail in the book, reception of fan input, and the will to not add content to boost financial gains can help relieve the anxiety of book fans as another one of their much-loved books is repackaged into a more accessible form of media.
Going and going, it will all spill out, Once it stops, your thoughts turn to doubt. The infection spreads to your mind And then your body. You are consumed. Just when your mind’s at its breaking point And your body’s collapsing, joint by joint. The obvious cure creeps its way in, Like a little flicker of light. The little space that suffocates And shortens breath, Expands and grows, Given some room to move. Move on, keep going, pass it by. Whatever works.
Swing Society Dance Show March 26 and 27, 9-11 PM at Brunton Auditorium Tickets: $5 For tickets, email: eanagy@mta.ca
The Argosy
ARTS & LITERATURE
www.argosy.ca
11
All for Love a success with dedicated cast and director Neo-classical play gets a modern edge John Fraser Arts & Literature Writer If you are familiar with movie depicting the modern retelling of Romeo and Juliet, then you might enjoy Windsor Theatre’s modern retelling of John Dryden’s neo-classical version of Antony and Cleopatra (titled All for Love) directed by Mount Allison’s director of drama, Glen Nichols. The first dress rehearsal took place this past Monday, March 18, in order to test the performance of the cast under a mock release with the difficult and unfamiliar lines. The amazing coordination of actors, lighting, scene direction, music, and metre execution brought together an amazing play that challenges the mind and delights the ear. The name of the play, All for Love, refers, in large part, to the love relationship between Antony and Cleopatra, played by Dallas Burns and Kristina Gaudet. The story is adapted from John Gielgud, who modelled the play after the neoclassical style, eliminating the length and complications associated with Shakespeare’s original play. The adaptation is even more succinct; Nichols wanted to make a play that would be approachable, yet impressive to the audience. “I think people are really going to be impressed with
Actors in Windsor Theatre’s All For Love portray the timeless love story of Antony and Cleopatra, on the Con Hall stage. (Lea Foy/Argosy) the work the students have put into the play,” said Nichols. “It wasn’t an easy task to get the students comfortable with the text, but we did and they did fantastic with it.” Before the actors even began rehearsals, they went through an intensive period of text work, making sure they understood the meaning and timing of the unfamiliar metre. “The script was edited slightly for the sake of time, but the overall content remains true to the story,”
said Nichols. “We really wanted to make sure the actors understood their lines and had them figured out before trying to pull this thing together,” said stage manager Gary McLaughlin. Although the length of the play has been reworked for brevity, it is far from the shortest play you’ll see this year, clocking in at an hour and fifty minutes with no intermission, so be sure to get very comfortable. The modern dress, weapons, warfare, and technologies of the play add a very
interesting angle on the story of Antony and Cleopatra. The biggest reason for this is the story’s relevance. “It’s really a story that transcends time,” said Bernard Soubry, who plays Dolabella. “It’s a very human and relatable play,” Nichols added, “the story of Antony and Cleopatra is not only a love story, but also a geo-political one. Audiences might find parallels between Rome’s dependence on Egypt’s wheat similar to our own dependence on Middle Eastern oil.” Nichols hopes that
the audience will pick up on these more subtle themes behind the fiery love story of Antony and Cleopatra. Altogether, All for Love is an amazingly crafted play, from the set design, to the music, to the beautiful lighting, which is rendered realistically through the work of Tommy Smith and his lighting crew. All for Love not only has a wonderful story but also looks and sounds authentic. Audiences will be in for a powerful treat when the play opens this weekend at Convocation Hall.
Musicians end degree with recitals Graduating students show what they have learned to audiences Bhreagh MacDonald Arts and Literature Editor For senior music students, this time of year brings stress and hard work. For audiences, it brings many great opportunities to hear quality performances. With student recitals underway, now is a great time to get a taste of what many music students have been working on for the past four years. While some recitals have already taken place, many will continue into April, giving the Mount Allison community a chance to experience what our students have to offer. Fourth-year student and trombone player Fenton Corey, will be performing his recital at Brunton on Friday evening. He stresses the work that he has put into its preparation, saying, “I started learning the music I’ll be playing on Friday, last September.” Though that might seem like a long time, he notes that there are reasons why preparation begins so early. “Some pieces are very long. The longest piece I’m playing is about seventeen minutes of me playing straight, so that is a lot of music to learn just quantity-wise…Mostly, you start that early because of how long and how much [there] is.” In terms of planning their programs and choosing their repertoire, guidelines are quite open. “Mt. A is really nice…because you get to pick. At least for the brass players,” Corey explained. “I just found pieces that I want to
play. It makes it easier to learn and spend that much time if you actually enjoy playing it.” Because the idea of a recital is to have as polished of a performance as possible, students are able to benefit from the help of their professors. “I get help from my teachers in a lot of ways,” noted Corey. He explains that because of small class sizes, music students actually receive a lot of special attention and at least one lesson per week. Though many senior students have a recital component that represents up to forty per cent of their grade, not everyone gets a chance to have one. “Because we only have one facility for recitals, you have to apply for one, you have to audition, and if you get a recital… it’s for credit,” Corey explained. However, Corey also noted, “most fourth-year players do get at least a shared recital, but it’s never a guarantee.” Some students who do not focus on performance choose to forego the recital portion. For Corey, the most challenging aspect of the process is, “finding the motivation to work on the little things that make it a lot better.” It is working on the details that make a performance outstanding, even when the musician is tired or worn out. For classical players, it is polishing each piece that launches a performance from a good one to a great one. When the hard work is over, the reward comes with the enjoyment of playing a piece that the musicians have played thousands of times that they can now enjoy playing well. “When you get to that point, you can just really enjoy what you’re doing because the work is pretty well done,” says Corey. The greater Mt. A community can share in their accomplishments by taking in a performance or two, and supporting musicians that have worked hard over the past four years.
Recital Dates: Taisha Lesser with Colin Frotten March 21, 8:00 pm Brunton Auditorium Fenton Corey with Colin Frotten March 22, 8:00 pm Brunton Auditorium Anna Bond with Sujin Shim March 24, 8:00 pm Brunton Auditorium Michael MacMillan April 5, 8:00 pm Brunton Auditorium Colin Frotten and Sujin Shim April 6, 3:00 pm Brunton Auditorium Amelia Shiels with with Lynn Johnson April 6, 8:00 pm Brunton Auditorium Kirsten LeBlanc with Bradley Hachey April 7, 3:00 pm Brunton Auditorium
12 CANDIDATES PROFILES
Maria Wilson
March 21, 2013
Meet your
Science Senator
Science Senator
Jon Fraser
Piper Riley Thomson
I was involved with MASU for two years as a member of the Campus Life committee, and this year as an Off-Campus Councillor. My initiatives next year include: an online used book sale, revamping the test/resource bank, and working with the university to re-evaluate the amount of final examinations that are acceptable during a time limit. I promise to be approachable, and to act as a figure to advocate for any other academic and council-related concerns that the student body has.
My hope in being elected is to help connect science students to the administration by developing bases of information, using media to keep students informed, facilitating communication of issues to the administration, and helping students access resources. These goals are media connection: giving students the means to follow important information and add their ideas to the mix. The second idea is clutter control: finding a way to free up students’ time.
I hope to implement a policy to develop an “interest credit.” This policy would initiate courses that students could take as distribution credits on a pass/fail basis. I am also looking to improve the test bank: if changed this test bank to a resource bank, it could include class notes and other pertinent class materials. I would work to establish an annual “Free School Day.” This day would allow students, faculty and staff and other community members to showcase their hidden talents and teach others about them.
Hillary Thomson
Joel Cargill
argosy@mta.ca
Arts Senator
Allie Morrison
Cast your ballot on to elect your Coun Senators, along w Regents Representa Valedic
Natalie Brunet
Nikki Bhatia
Social Science Senator
Social Science Senator
Social Science Senator
Board of Regeants Rep.
Board of Regeants Rep.
I think that I am an excellent fit for the position as I have been involved with a number of different clubs on campus and currently sit on council as an Off-Campus Councillor. I hope to focus on three main points: creating a program to prepare students who are writing LSAT or MCAT tests, the second is to limit the frequency of 'Hell Weeks' through the implementation of ideas like free extensions or ‘due weeks’, and finally I hope to improve course evaluations.
I would push the university to improve the number of study areas available to students, including weekend use of academic buildings and student center conference rooms. I also believe that the university needs to upgrade seating and power sources for computers so that students can learn in comfort. Non-academically, the new SAC voting system should be changed, as it doesn’t accurately represent the student body, and MASU should stand against the closing of satellite residences and current don contract.
I would like to work with the Academic Affairs Committee and with the University to get run down classrooms renovated. I would also like to increase the number of study abroad opportunities, especially in the summer. A lot of students would like to study abroad but cannot do so during the regular school year. I hope that by introducing more summer programs that more people will be able to go abroad without losing valuable time during the school year.
I have already served for two years on Council. I propose to work to secure dedicated hours for a Wellness Centre psychologist and improve university procedures regarding mental health issues. Students’ experience with life at Mt. A starts with residence. I intend to ask for a residence review committee to be set up. It is also one of my goals to initiate a partnership program between Mt. A, the Moncton SPCA and MASU to allow off-campus students to foster pets.
The Board of Regents Rep. should present on a student issue at every Board meeting in order to influence the budget. I will present on the following topics: Safety and Security, Student Compensation, Student Retention in Residence. I will push for the establishment of a committee to implement the Campus Safety Audit recommendations. I intend on engaging fellow Board members outside of general meetings in order to keep student issues at the forefront.
Emma-Jayne Orser-Kooistra Off-Campus Councillor
I’m involved with Because I am a Girl, Drama Studies Society, and I just recently played the part of Sister Berthe in The Sound of Music. I want to be a voice for the off-campus students. I will make sure that any concerns are heard and brought before MASU. I also know that communication is a two-way street and so, in addition to making sure the off-campus community’s voice is heard, I will make sure that the offcampus community is kept up-todate and informed about the issues being discussed within the Students’ U n i o n .
Natalie Moloney
Yolanda Gallant
Graham Muise
Annie Sherry
Off-Campus Councillor
Off-Campus Councillor
Off Campus Councillor
Off-Campus Councillor
I would LOVE to represent you! Finishing my term as Social Chair of Hunton house, I’m looking to get more involved in the Mt. A community next year. I believe that I would make a great off-campus councillor because I understand the value of communication, and promise to keep everyone wellinformed about current issues on the student union. I’m also willing to work hard to make sure that offcampus students are represented well!
I am currently a second year science student majoring in Psychology and minoring in Biology and I want to be one of your off-campus councillors for next year! I am extremely excited for this opportunity and look forward to the possibility of representing you. I am currently an executive for BODIES and am a mentor with Leadership MTA and am excited to continue my involvement with this lovely school you and I call home. I want to be the voice for you on council and make sure that the opinion of the student body is heard and taken into account. I am dependable and reliable and believe I am an excellent fit for this position!
I am currently a third year student living off campus, and I have been involved with the MASU to some degree since arrived at Mount A. I’m also involved on campus in everything from varsity sports, to academic societies, to zombies and NERF guns. My main goals for this election are to increase awareness about MASU services and changes; as well as advocate for any changes the off campus community would like to see. Especially now that the number of councillors have been lowered, going out and getting the feedback and opinions of every off campus student possible is of vital importance. .
I am concerned with relationships that students form with their landlords. I would like to see this improved in the 2013/2014 school year. I would like to implement different ways to help with these relationships, such as a landlord fair at the beginning of the year, and getting both landlords and students to utilize the SAC housing directory more effectively. I am also concerned with the lack of communication between off-campus students and residence events. I would like to work on these issues with the other councillors.
The Argosy
CANDIDATES PROFILES
www.argosy.ca
13
candidates
n March 27 and 28 ncillors and Student with your Board of ative and this year’s ctorian.
Seth Pickard-Tattrie
Jen Boyce
Lia d’Abate
Rob Bourroughs
Stephen Bradford
While I only spent three years at Mt. A, I have been blown away by the incredible sense of community at this school. I want to highlight how instrumental this network of students and professors has been to my personal and academic growth. My time here has allowed me to embrace my strengths and weaknesses, and gain the confidence I need to pursue my passions, something I did not always have. Most of all, I want this speech to highlight the talented and tenacious individuals whom I have had the privilege of living, studying and talking with while at Mt. A.
Friends, Allisonians, Grads? Nah, I don’t think I’ll start like that. The abundance of excellence and accomplishment in this Class is astounding, and it’s left us wanting more. It’s left us wondering: what’s our next adventure? We’re excited and eager, but we’re also just a bit scared at the same time. We’re caught in this delicate act of looking back to remember just how much fun we had here (and by god did we have a lot of it!) and peering forward to see what’s on the other side.
Taking ten minutes to walk from Barclay to the Library because you see so many people you need to stop and talk to. Claiming your favorite spot on the third floor of the library. Curling up at Bridge Street with a chai tea. When you realized that collective hip thrusting was acceptable. When the meal hall workers know not only your first name, but your sandwich order too. These are the moments that connect us, while reminding us how lucky we are to have ended up in this place together.
Kat Stobbs
Anna Doucette
Robert Murray
As graduation nears, I’ve found myself split between being excited for the future and scared to leave such a great place behind. Luckily, every person I’ve met has taught me something different, and these contributions have made a new, better version of me than the one who attended her first frosh activity. I want to represent this amazing group of graduating students because I am so grateful for all they’ve given me, and all that their lessons will allow me to achieve in the future. Vote Anna for Class of 2013 Valedictorian!
I had someone tell me in my third year that life was all about earning money and scoring that corner office. Instead of finding that corner office, I found myself. I changed my life focus multiple times while at Mt. A, until finding something I loved and was passionate about. People who say undergraduate degrees are worthless don’t see the additional value available. Undergraduate degrees allow everyone to find their calling and discover what they are passionate about, an experience I feel I can accurately describe.
Valedictorian
Valedictorian
Valedictorian
Valedictorian
I truly do love this school and this town, and I would like to relay the wonderful experience that our class had in our time here. Not only would I like to share the wonders of our time here at Mt. A, what we learned and what we accomplished, but I would also use a valedictory address to discuss what we are capable of. We are a very accomplished class graduating from one of the most prestigious universities in the world and we know that we will make a difference when we go our separate ways and enter the real world..
My only hope in running for your Valedictorian is to add even a little more nostalgia, excitement, and happiness to the Graduation Ceremony. I want to be the voice of the graduating student body by reminding everyone why we came here, what we got from our experience here, why we are all SO in love with this school, how lucky we are to have spent time here together, and how it has prepared us for all of the wonderful crazy dreams we’ll all chase when we leave here.
I’m lucky enough to have been involved in a bunch of things on campus, from patching up drunkards who crash through windows, to prancing around Con Hall dressed as a nun. We’ve met great people, made life-long friendships, made a couple mistakes, and learned a whole lot about ourselves. I would be honoured to be chosen to give the speech at our convocation ceremonies, and I promise that it will be funny, reflective and a great way to round off the amazing time that has been our Mt. A experience.
Sean Yerzy
Rayan Bouhlel
Krystel Murphy
Valedictorian
Valedictorian
James Beirne
Valedictorian
Valedictorian
Hannah Wright
Off-Campus Councillor
Off-Campus Councillor
South Side Councillor
North Side Councillor
South Side Councillor
After serving a term as Hunton President, I think that I’ve learned a lot and would have a lot to offer our student’s union. The major responsibility of the Off Campus Councillor is to advocate and listen to the questions and concerns of the off campus community. If elected, I’ll make sure that all opinions and concerns get voiced, and there will be constant communication between constituents and the student’s union; the concerns of the Mounties will all be heard. I’d love to get more involved here at Mt. A and I think if I were to be elected, it would be fantastic, baby!
I believe I have the ability to represent students’ needs and interests, and make sure they’re attended to. I strongly think that I will be good representation on council, as I am an outspoken person that believes that our union should be shaped to adapt to different students’ needs. I also am an international student coming from more than one background, which I believe allows me to reach out to a wider audience of students, and voice the needs, issues, and concerns of a larger portion of MASU members.
If I were to be elected to be South Side Councillor, I would do my best to represent South Side, along with two others, and take all the concerns that people have to help improve student life. I’m very honest and I’m never scared to voice my opinion if I do/don’t agree with something. I’m also very easy to approach, talk to, and I work well with others. Being South Side Councillor is a responsibility that I am willing to take if I were to be elected. I would work hard taking concerns from students of Mount A, and make an effort to get involved with all residences.
I’m a hard working, conscientious student and I really do live for this kind of thing. The councillor position is all about representing your constituents, and I have big ideas as to how to make that happen. One thing I plan to do next year is increase communication between you and me: if we’re talking about something in a meeting, I’ll make sure you know about it, and I’ll make your feedback heard in council. You’re all paying members of the MASU, after all.
I was on the Student Council in high school. I have experience with the hard work and dedication that is required to resolve and promote issues, lobby for support, and listen to concerns. I feel I can bring new ideas and a fresh perspective that will help MASU. I am also organized and energetic. Personally, it is a great way for me to meet more of my fellow students and learn more about the issues we face and activities the university offers.
SPORTS
March 21, 2012
argosy@mta.ca
The power of play Caila Henderson takes over Mt. A chapter of Right To Play Robert Murray Sports Editor For Caila Henderson, sports are just about as much a part of her life as the blood that runs through her veins. After several years of involvement with Mount Allison’s chapter of Right To Play, Henderson will be taking over the role of president of the club at the start of next year. “Because she was an athlete herself, she definitely understands the benefits that come from playing sports and being involved in those types of activities, which is really what Right To Play is about,” commented fellow Right To Play executive member Callie Bowman. Henderson has been involved with the Right To Play chapter at Mt. A for several years now. During her time on the volleyball team, Henderson became one of several high-profile athletes at Mt. A to support the group. “I was always the first one out on the playground,” Henderson mentioned. Henderson recalled how she cherished her moments playing sports and how her involvement in athletics helped her gain important life skills, leadership skills, and confidence through these activities. “Not to have that opportunity is a deprivation for these kids,” she said. One of Right To Play’s new initiatives this year involved travelling to speak to students at Salem Elementary School and Marshview Middle School. Henderson expressed
a desire to build upon this current plan by adding visits to Tantramar Regional High School, and even potentially adding in visits to schools in Amherst and Moncton. Henderson will be taking over a role that was filled by co-presidents this past year. Zander McKinnon and Andrew Taylor–who Henderson credited with leaving big shoes to fill–served as the heads of the group this year. For both of them, she was a natural fit for the position. “She loves the organization, she really cares about what the power of sport and play can do to make positive change throughout the world,” mentioned Taylor. McKinnon added in a recent interview that he thinks Henderson can take Mt. A’s Right To Play group “to the next level.” Henderson noted that she has applied skills from her time on the volleyball court, such as her determination and work ethic, to her time with Right To Play. “In communities where these games are played, they’re not coaching in terms of teaching them specific sports skills. It’s more using the games to teach life skills,” she noted. Another unique attribute about the Right To Play organization that Henderson brought up was the lack of advertising the organization does, so that they can fuel a greater portion of funds raised into programs. Right To Play depends on university clubs such as the one at Mt. A to promote the organization and its core values; values which Taylor mentioned Henderson embodies very well. Henderson won’t have to go through next year alone, as the executive has already been chosen. For now, the executive consists of the following students: Westin Cook, Ryan Murphy, Beck Canning, Jessie Dale, Rebecca McCarthy, Breanna Lane, and Samantha Kinley.
Caila played volleyball at Mt. A. (Sue Seaborn/Mount Allison)
Pierre Arsenault
Pierre Arsenault has helped Mount Allison Athletics grow since 2009. (Sue Seaborn/Mount Allison)
Getting to know the Mounties athletic director Wray Perkin Sports Writer The spirit of a university campus stems from its varsity sports teams, and at the centre of Mount Allison’s Athletics Department is Pierre Arsenault. Director of Athletics and Recreation since 2009, Arsenault comes from a sports-heavy background, having worked for the Saskatchewan Hockey Association, Hockey Canada, and serving for seven years as Executive Director of NB Golf prior to being appointed to his current post at Mt. A. “As AD I don’t really know what I’m going to spend the day doing,” said Arsenault. “Things pop up, whether it’s a student-athlete struggling academically, an in-game incident, or equipment in our facilities.” Arsenault says his main duty is working closely with the coaches and athletes to build competitive teams for the Atlantic University Sport (AUS) and Atlantic Colleges Athletics Association (ACAA) seasons. “My role is to help build an environment to let athletes and coaches do their jobs,” described Arsenault. “We have good coaches in place; they will do their jobs. We have to provide a standard of quality and consistency of what it means to be a Mountie.” Despite being new to Mt. A when he was hired nearly four years ago,
Arsenault had some familiarity with Mountie sports from his student days at University of New Brunswick. “I was a student at UNB from 1992-96, and I went to a lot of basketball and men’s hockey games,” Arsenault recalled. “But it would have been the fall of 1993 that I started coming to watch the football games at Mt.A, and I remember gameday was such a big deal on campus. It captivated a big part of campus, and was a big part of the culture.” “Now, as AD, I want that for all of our sports; we want to build that relevance and support for our teams, and make the sporting experience a part of the mainstream Mt.A experience.” In the four years Arsenault has been at the helm, the Mounties have made incredible progress across the board. The varsity teams have found success on the field and ice and in the gym and pool, while the active lifestyle program, which was essentially created by Arsenault and his wife Karen, has leapt to new heights in terms of popularity. One of the big developments in the past year is the growth of the concept of Mountie Pride, constantly tweeted by players, coaches, and Arsenault himself with the hashtag #MountiePride. “The origins of that are pretty genuine, it sort of happened naturally,” Arsenault explained. “Using Twitter as a communicator has been great. The emotions were there before, but it became something we could all put out there or grab onto. It’s a really great, pure representation of the power that lies within here.” Citing some of the Mounties’ recent successes in his time, Arsenault said he takes great pride in the results
of the teams. “Look at where we’ve come in last three years; teams who weren’t playoff teams are now teams are in national rankings, AUS final games, winning ACAA champions; you couldn’t say that three years ago. We take a lot of pride in taking the next step, and it strengthens the notion we’re not done yet. There is real substance to be proud of here.” Arsenault also commented on the family-like closeness of the sports teams, not just within their own roster but encompassing all athletes in the department. “When I came here, it seemed like the right thing to say, throwing the word ‘family’ around. It’s a very genuine thing here” “Moments that stand out for me are the ones where you see everyone coming together as a Mountie family. Things like winning our homecoming game, hockey playing in the championship game, the success of our swim team this year. Just seeing the different quality of student-athlete we’re attracting now. Anything where there is public verification of what we’re doing here has been most gratifying.” Arsenault will be on hand at the Night of the Mounties tonight to formally recognize the outstanding team and individual accomplishments of the past year in sports.
The Argosy
SPORTS
www.argosy.ca
Richard headed to Scandinavia Former Mountie pursuing professional football in Norway Wray Perkin Sports Writer The Mount Allison Mounties have two former players playing in the Canadian Football League, and now have two playing professional football in Europe, as well. Justin Richard is the most recent Mountie to make the jump into professional football by recently joining the Kristiansand Gladiatiors of the Norwegian National League. “Really, the driving factor behind my decision to do this was to spend some time living abroad and do some travelling,” says the Sackville product. “Apparently there’s a whole world outside of Sackville, who knew?” The linebacker becomes the second former Mountie in Europe. Corner/ receiver/returner Bradley Daye is currently in his second season with the Nimes Centurions in France’s professional league. “The quality of football is slightly below that of the CIS, from what I’ve seen so far,” described Richard. “But there are still good players; all of the quarterbacks are imported players, and most others
played Division I or Division II in the States.” Richard, whose mother was born in Scotland, is travelling on his UK passport, meaning that he does not use one of the team’s import player spots on the roster, but still gets the benefits an import player receives. “It’s a bit of a loophole, but it’s win-win for the team and I.” Located two hours from Norway’s capital city of Oslo, Kristiansand is the fifth-largest city in Norway and provides opportunities for visitors such as Richard to travel around the country with ease. “Things on my Norwegian bucket list definitely include spending time in Oslo,” the twenty-two-year-old widely known for his sense of humour said. “The scenery and landscape here are pretty awesome, so I’m hoping to get some camping in them fjords once the snow melts and warms up a little.” “Also, the river that runs through the city is a world-class salmon river, so I’m hoping to get my waders on and get my pole wet.” Richard said he was in contact with Daye, as well as former Mountie Peter Nicolajsen from Denmark about playing in Europe, and decided to go on their encouragement. “I consulted Peter and he told me they have a good reputation; the team finished second in the playoffs last year and we’re already said to be a contender this year. Coming home with a Norwegian Championship would be pretty cool.” Richard will earn a salary while playing for the Gladiators while also having his living expenses paid while he is there.
As a linebacker, Richard terrorized AUS opponents. (Sue Seaborn/Mount Allison) “We have a huge apartment for all of the team’s imported players. It would have been a great party house to have had in Sackville,” Richard commented candidly. “My room has two fireplaces in it, so I can’t complain much, and other small things are covered like gym memberships, metro passes and a cell plan.” After the Norwegian season is completed in July, Richard said he has an opportunity of playing in a league in Australia, but said he doesn’t want to get too far ahead of himself
Baadsvik makes push for Sochi Mt. A rugby alum on track for Olympic success
and hasn’t yet made a decision for next fall. In five seasons with the Mounties, Richard accumulated 115 tackles, most of which came in his final two seasons, when he was named the Mounties’ Defensive Player of the Year both years. This past season, he was a team captain and tied for the Atlantic University Sport lead with three interceptions. Those who want to follow Richard’s European adventures can do so on Twitter by following @picnics_over.
Weekly Wellness Website tracks homophobic language on social media
Robert Murray Sports Editor As the Canadian women’s bobsled teams make their final preparations for the upcoming Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia, their expectations are clearly focused on a repeat of the gold medal won in Vancouver. If brakeman Emily Baadsvik has her way, that gold medal will be complemented by a shade of garnet. Baadsvik, who was born in St. Stephen, NB, played hockey and rugby during her university career at Mount Allison. “They helped make Mt. A a much more enjoyable place outside of studying,” she mentioned over the phone. While she played both sports, Baadsvik had a significant attachment to her time on the pitch. She spent her time outside of Mt. A playing for the Fredericton Loyalists, St. John Trojans, and Moncton Blacktide of the New Brunswick’s Senior Women’s League. After she graduated, Baadsvik moved out to Calgary with hopes of making Canada’s national women’s rugby team. Baadsvik made the transition from rugby to bobsleigh, following in the footsteps of another successful Maritime rugby athlete, Heather Moyse. Moyse won gold in 2010 as the brakeman for Kaillie Humphries. The position of brakeman has featured a revolving door ever since Moyse went down with a serious ankle injury at the 2011 Rugby World Cup and recently underwent surgery to repair a torn labrum in her right hip. “Knowing that Heather [Moyse] had done it as well, I had extra ammunition to try it because
Melissa Meade Health Intern
Humphries (left) and Baddsvik (right). (Charlie Booker/BCS) I had nothing to lose,” she said. Since Vancouver, Baadsvik has battled for the position of brakeman on Canada One with Chelsea Valois. Although Valois spent the majority of this year with Humphries, Baadsvik has split time between Canada’s top two teams. Jennifer Ciochetti, who finished fourteenth in the World Cup standings this year, pilots Canada’s second team. Humphries, who has competed since 2002, was quick to comment about Baadsvik’s evolution as a bobsleigh athlete in a recent interview. “It’s always great when you can see someone put in the work and then see the results later.” Baadsvik has worked her way into a strategic role on Canada’s bobsled team throughout the past few years. Serving as a spare to Canada One, Emily earned a bronze medal at a World Cup team event in Austria earlier this year and picked up two victories in the 2011-12 World Cup season. Her almost immediate success in bobsleigh is nothing new to Jaco Olivier, her former rugby coach at Mt.
15
A. “She has the ability as an athlete to execute what you showed her the first time,” he commented. “I have never seen anything like it before in my life.” Describing the sport as “a rush that you can’t explain,” Baadsvik will continue to push for Sochi as she trains over the summer. The transition into any sport can be an arduous task, one that she is still learning. Humphries is confident about Baadsvik’s development, though, and her chances for Sochi. “As long as she continues to progress as she has in the sport over the last two years, she should have no problem making it.” Baadsvik has her sights firmly set on Sochi and standing on the top of the podium. Like any good brakeman, she wants to give other athletes a good start after her career finishes. She expressed a desire to assist worldclass Canadian athletes, most of whom struggle financially, through working with various organizations such at the Canadian Olympic Committee or Own the Podium. “The sky’s the limit, and you only put limits on yourself.”
The word ‘gay’ or ‘faggot’ is still commonly used to describe something or someone that is undesired or unacceptable. Despite the expanding understanding and acceptance of people who do not fit neatly into traditional gender stereotypes, being anything other than a heterosexual feminine female or masculine male is still considered abnormal or weird. The perpetuation of this idea exists in casual everyday conversation, like when the school work someone has to do is ‘gay’ because it means they can’t go out tonight. The website “nohomophobes.com” reflects back to us the extent to which homophobic language is present in everyday language. This website scans the social media website Twitter and keeps track of how often people mention the terms ‘faggot’, ‘so gay’, and ‘dyke’, in their posts. For example, in one week alone, the term ‘faggot’ was mentioned a massive 310,039 times, and the term ‘so gay’ was used 70,854 times. The surprising amount that people choose to use homophobic language is especially disturbing if you imagine someone saying something overtly sexist or racist in a similar fashion. It is just wrong to continue to associate the word ‘gay’ with something that is lousy or unwanted when other forms of discrimination are viewed as unacceptable.
The use of homophobic language contributes to the rejection and bullying of LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning) youth and has undoubtedly had detrimental effects on the mental health of anyone impacted by such offensive language and ideology. Calling someone a faggot implies that they have deviated too far from the social norm and usually has derogatory connotations. This type of language is often used by people it does not directly effect because it seems inconsequential, but it isn’t funny to those who are viewed as “different” or “strange” because of it. The term ‘gay’ means something that is cheerful or joyful, and this is the only meaning it should have. Hopefully, by changing what is acceptable in our language we can help create change in commonly accepted thoughts and behaviours as well. Many people give little thought to someone’s sexual orientation or gender expression; however, homophobia (a negative attitude towards homosexuality) still exists both subtly and overtly. Until prejudices that result from judging someone’s abilities or worth based on their sexual orientation or gender identity no longer exist, there will still be a need to spark change in what is considered normal or acceptable. Please stand up to homophobic language and help alter what is considered acceptable. This language can be seriously harmful to the selfcompassion and self-image of those affected and needs to stop. If you are someone who needs help with issues surrounding homophobic bullying, anxiety, or depression, please contact the Wellness Centre on the ground floor of the Wallace McCain Student Centre, or visit mta.ca/share. Don’t let offensive and disrespectful terminology continue to be a part of colloquial language.
16 SPORTS
March 21, 2013
Pride in the uniform
argosy@mta.ca
Staying on track onto the lead in the final lap of a race, like he had done so many times before. This time, however, the finish line came much sooner than expected. Barry passed away last May. “I became very motivated. [It] really put my life into perspective, that we don’t get a second chance and that every second of life has a value on it,” mentioned Kelly. Kelly, who races with the PSL Atlantic Robert Murray team owned by Michael Dobbelsteyn, has Sports Editor raced throughout the United States in destinations such as Arizona, California, Every go-kart race has its twists and turns; and Florida. He also attended the world the asphalt track can keep even the most finals in Portugal this past December. Kelly recently unveiled a new helmet featuring experienced racer guessing. To Mount Allison student Nathan Kelly, his life has gone a prominent design. “After [Barry] passed through more twists and turns than any track away last May, I designed my helmet around imaginable. Now, as he prepares to launch a the IWK children’s hospital,” commented professional career in auto-racing, he’ll have Kelly. The design was a tribute to Barry’s to do so without one of his biggest supporters. time as an elementary principal and the Kelly’s first athletic passion wasn’t on the enjoyment he got from working with kids. The untimely passing of his father only fuelled track but in the hockey rink. As a goaltender, the Amherst, NS, native briefly suited up for the Kelly to become a better person on and off the now-defunct Lewiston Maineiacs of the Quebec track. “The big thing about Nathan is, whenever you talk to him you Major Junior Hockey see his confidence League (QMJHL). and his competency,” Despite his success mentioned fellow racer at hockey, racing The big thing about Nathan and friend Gerald was in his blood. Caseley After his hockey is, whenever you talk to him Caseley. career had finished, you see his confidence and his and Kelly have been friends since they were Kelly focused his full competency. attention on racing Gerald Caseley both relatively new to the sport. Caseley go-karts, with the Fellow racer has seen Kelly’s support of his father. It personality evolve was Kelly’s dad, Barry, over the hardship a former racer himself, who gave Nathan his start in the racing world. that comes with losing someone as close as your “We were going to do motocross originally, and own father. “I still see him using a lot of his mom didn’t like motocross too much because it father’s qualities in his own personality today.” Kelly has dreams of one day reaching the Formula was [just] two wheels, so I ended up karting,” said Kelly. They turned to the sport of go- One circuit. He also mentioned that he wouldn’t karting and bonded over it. “It was something turn down an opportunity to race in the GP2 or we always did together as father and son.” GP3 Series, the feeder systems for Formula One. Regardless of where he ends up in the racing With everything seemingly in place, the moment came that no one ever wanted to hear; world, Kelly’s father will be with him every step Barry had cancer. Although Barry’s cancer of the way. It may no longer be in person, but significantly changed the landscape of their daily the selfless life his Dad lived lives on inside lives, the two still connected through racing. Kelly and on the front of his helmet. First or Barry would often watch Nathan race from home. last, they’ll always cross the finish line together. Barry put up a fight like he was closely holding
Kelly aims for auto racing career after loss of father
Grant currently volunteers with Sackville’s Fire Department. (Lea Foy/Argosy)
Former Mounties learn to serve and protect Robert Murray Sports Editor During their respective athletic careers with the Mount Allison Mounties, Rachael Betuik and MacGregor Grant represented the garnet and gold exceptionally. As both now plan their respective careers, they have switched teams, suiting up for their community as emergency responders. Betuik played for four years on Mt. A’s women’s rugby team, helping her team win the Atlantic Collegiate Athletic Association (ACAA) title as a second-row forward and flank. Grant enjoyed success in two sports. He was an avid runner, helping to establish Mt. A as a dominant force in the ACAA Cross Country scene, in addition to being one of the top competitors on the varsity swimming team. After they left Mt. A, they found their calling in helping to serve and protect their communities. Betuik left Mt. A before graduating to attend paramedic school while Grant is in the process of becoming a full-time firefighter. Outlining her reasoning for pursuing a career as a paramedic, Betuik recalled an incident she witnessed as a lifeguard. She explained how she was one of the first responders to an accident where a biker went over an embankment. The injuries sustained were so severe that no one was able to revive the victim. “I thought there was more that
I could do with the initial rescue there,” she stated. For Grant, he knew firefighting was something he wanted to do from a young age. “Joining the department in Sackville was the defining moment in that I really wanted to take firefighting seriously and pursue it as a career down the road.” As both spent their athletic career at Mt. A involved in team sports, the skills they developed on the field and in the pool helped to prepare them for the careers they’re pursuing today. Betuik mentioned by Skype how the level of communication and having your teammate’s back were the most transferable skills she took from her time with rugby to her current career choice. Both acknowledged the importance and pride associated between wearing their Mounties uniforms and uniforms they currently represent today. “It’s in a different respect, where you’re not competing against each other, where you’re actually working as a team,” noted Grant. “The feeling of adrenaline and feeling of achievement is still the same.” Betuik has been able to enhance her understanding of the paramedic field through her time in rugby. She recalled in first year how she was taken off the field on a backboard and put in an ambulance. She also added that her fundamental knowledge of injuries has grown due to her experience in both her passions. For years, Betuik and Grant served the garnet and gold uniform of the Mounties; now they serve their community. Regardless of where they go in the future, their time as a Mountie has developed the foundation they needed to become successful in their sport and in serving their community.
McGuire brothers’ sibling rivalry Connor and Greg shine at national level Robert Murray Sports Editor When Paul and Sandy McGuire welcomed their two sons into the world, they probably didn’t realize the competition that would exist between the two of them today. Connor and Greg McGuire started their athletic careers on Prince Edward Island before parlaying it into two university athletic careers, where both have received national recognition for their efforts. Connor, a runner, has excelled throughout his first four years at St. Francis Xavier University, winning multiple Atlantic University Sport (AUS) titles in cross-country and track and field. His younger brother, Greg, is currently in his second season with the Mount Allison Mounties. Like his older brother, Greg is finding success in two sports as well. Serving as a back-up goalkeeper for the soccer mounties the past two years, McGuire has seen action in a total of three games, giving up four goals in three losses, two to the University of Prince Edward Island and one to Acadia University. Greg McGuire has found immediate success
with his second sport, badminton, attending Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) nationals for the past two years. “Our big thing with them growing up was not would they make it to that level but would they develop a life style that would keep them healthy,” noted their mother Sandy over the phone. Though they have been separated by age, the two manage to remain competitive. “[Connor] grabbed onto running to become a better badminton player in high school in grade eleven. All of a sudden he found a niche and ran with it,” noted Paul McGuire over the phone. Greg made reference to his particular badminton prowess, noting how up until around grade ten, he was unable to beat his older brother. That has since changed. “He can definitely beat me now,” Connor said with a laugh during a phone interview last Thursday evening. Just as Connor readily admitted that he would be unable to beat his younger brother on the court, Greg conceded a potential showdown on the track. “It was pretty fun up until he started running. Then he got really good and I had nothing to chirp him about,” noted Greg. “I would have no chance in a race against him.” Like most successful young athletes, their success has spawned from the genes of their parents. Speaking about his wife, Paul McGuire commented that they have a family joke that “she’ll handle the academics from her brain side of the family and I’ll handle the athletics from my
Brothers Connor (left) and Greg (right). (Nick Pearce and Sue Seaborn/Submitted) side of the family.” Although he mentioned that he rarely played, Paul was a member of the 1976 Concordia Stingers squad that won the Canadian Interuniversity Sport (CIS) Men’s Soccer title. Although both parents are proud of what their sons have accomplished in their athletic careers, the focus remains on academics. “St. FX and Mt. A have been a blessing for both kids, to be honest. They’ve excelled academically in both places, which is really really rewarding,” commented Paul. As a testament to his studies, Connor was named
a CIS Academic All-Canadian for the 2011-12 academic year. Their competition not only exists on the playing surface, but in the classroom as well. Connor is an Honours Biology student at St. FX, while Greg is also studying Biology at Mt. A. Though they may not see each other much during the year, the athletic and academic accomplishments of both have written a new chapter in the book on sibling rivalry, a chapter that likely won’t be finished for quite some time.
ATTIC TRANSMISSIONS
THE CHMA 106.9 FM CAMPUS & COMMUNITY RADIO BULLETIN
MARCH 21, 2013
THE LISTEN UP! EDITION
HIGHLIGHTS THE CHARTS PROGRAMMER TUNE IN FOR SOME GREAT ORIGINAL RADIO! FOR THE WEEK ENDING TUESDAY MARCH 19, 2013 RANK
ARTIST
TITLE
(LABEL)
01 OLENKA AND THE AUTUMN LOVERS* It’s Alright (Self-Released)
02 TWO HOURS TRAFFIC* Foolish Blood (Bumstead)
03 JULIE DOIRON* So Many Days (Aporia) 04 HAYDEN* Us Alone (Arts & Crafts) 05 HANNAH GEORGAS* Hannah Georgas (Dine Alone) 06 CUFF THE DUKE* Union (Paper Bag) 07 JILL BARBER* Chansons (Outside) 08 WAKE OWL* Wild Country (Resolute)
09 JENNAH BARRY* Young Men (Self-Released)
C O F F E E H O U S E W I T H R A C H E L H I LT S AND SARAH VAN DER LAAN Need an afternoon pick-me-up? This upbeat music show is sure to perk you up and get you through even the most hectic of days! THURSDAYS AT 2 PM SHADOW PLAY W I T H EMMA DRIEDGER Mixing the sweetest indie tunes with lovingly chosen classical pieces, this show is sure to enlighten and invigorate you for the evening! TUESDAYS AT 9 PM G O O D R I V E R S , G R E AT L A K E S NORMAN NEHMETALLAH
AND
This show is probably the best reason to stay up past your bedtime! With great banter, Canadian and international artists, and music ranging from indie, folk, to rock; it’s the best reason to become a night owl. TUESDAYS AT 12 AM THE KELLEY AND BERNARD SHOW BERNARD SOUBRY
10 FRIGHTENED RABBIT Pedestrian Verse (Atlantic) 11 COLD WARPS* Don’t Haunt Me, OK?/Stuck on an Island (Noyes) 12 THE GOOD LOVELIES* Live at Revolution (Self-Released) 13 THE JOY FORMIDABLE The Wolf’s Law (Atlantic) 14 VERSE THE SUN* And Moon (Strange Blood) 15 THE CAMERON BROTHERS BAND* Ratios (Self-Released) 16 WILD BELLE Isles (Columbia)
17 MILO GREEN Milo Green
18 AIDEN KNIGHT* Small Reveal (Outside)
AND
WITH
KELLEY HUMPHRIES
Ready for something completely different? This show is an hour of jokes, fun, and merriment all set to the ukulele. It’s radio that will make you smile! WEDNESDAYS AT 5 PM THE NICE BUTLER HOUR WITH ROSIE BUTLER Put on the coffee, scramble the eggs, and turn on your radios for an awesome brunch-time radio show. Wake up right with the perfect mix of indie, americana, and rock! SUNDAYS AT 1 PM NOMIHODAI SOUL
(Chop Shop)
WITH
JACK BRITTON
WITH
PAUL BOON
All the soul you can drink, and more! Vintage sounds and new loungey favourites; It’s by far the classiest way to spend your Sunday evenings. SUNDAYS AT 9 PM
19 WHITEHORSE* The Fate of the World Depends on this Kiss (Six Shooter) 20 YO LA TENGO Fade (Matador) 21 ELISAPIE* Travelling Love (Pheromone) 22 DAPHNI* Jiaolong (Merge) 23 KANDLE* Kandle (Mercy) 24 GROS MENE* Agnus Dei (Groose Boite)
25 THE LUMINEERS The Lumineers (Dine Alone)
26 JAKE BUGG Jake Bugg (Mercury) 27 BOY Mutual Friends (Nettwerk) 28 INDIO SARAVANJA* Travel On (Del Norte) 29 HENRY WAGONS Expecting Company? (Six Shooter) 30 TORO Y MOI Anything In Return (Carpark)
BREAKFAST IN BED WITH ILSE KRAMER Both the best reason to get up in the morning, and the best reason to hit the snooze button on your alarm clock radio. Featuring the greatest in independent rock, folk and low-fi, it’s radio to wake up to! TUESDAYS AT 7:30 AM IN THE SPIN WITH KIMBERLY SAYSON AND ALLISON O’REILLY Get in the spin. An evening melting pot of news, interesting facts, sweet insights and great music playlists. Tune in. TUESDAY AT 7 PM EL EC T RIC M O N EY M ARS H W I T H JEAN -SÉB AST IEN C O M EAU A killer mix of the newest electronic tracks to kickstart your Friday night. It’s the best way to pump you up for the weekend! FRIDAYS AT 8PM
Internet Image - Vintage Radio Ad
BUMMER PUNK WITH JOSHUA LANDRY Tune in at the witching hour for some loud music and discussion about the local punk and the underground music scene. THURSDAYS AT 12 AM BOARDWALK RADIO Your daily update featuring news, sports, weather, and information about all things Sackville. Tune in to hear discussions on current events and interviews with local celebreties. Boardwalk Radio is your perfect lunchtime companion. WEEKDAYS AT 12 PM PABST AND JAZZ WITH KRISTIAN GILBERT AND WILL BALLANTYNE-RICE From Kanye to Jay-Z - Curren$y to A$AP Rocky, tune in to hear the smoothest beats and rhymes selected each week by two of Sackville’s leading Hip-hop connoisseurs. WEDNESDAYS AT 12 AM THE ROCK’N’ROLL LATE NIGHT SHOW WITH MARK GUZIK You can’t go wrong with a show that promises blaring guitars, pounding bass, and banging drums- turn on your radio and be prepared to rock! SATURDAY AT 11 PM MORE PROGRAMMER HIGHLIGHTS COMING SOON! CHECK OUT THE CHMA WEBSITE FOR THE FULL PROGRAMMING SCHEDULE AND KEEP YOUR RADIOS TUNED TO CHMA 106.9 FM!!
31 MONOMYTH*
UPCOMING EVENTS & CONCERTS
Monomyth (Self-Released)
MARGO MARGO & DEVARROW FRIDAY, MARCH 22, 2013 PICKLES EUROPEAN DELI PAY WHAT YOU CAN - ALL AGES NEWCOMER SESSIONS 9:00PM
EVERY TUESDAY 4PM 364-2221 WWW.MTA.CA/CHMA 3RD FLOOR STUDENT CENTRE
MAX GRIZZLY FRIDAY, MARCH 29, 2013 PICKLES EUROPEAN DELI PAY WHAT YOU CAN - ALL AGES 9:00PM
THE BURNING HILLS & KATE ROGERS THURSDAY, MARCH 28, 2013 PICKLES EUROPEAN DELI PAY WHAT YOU CAN - ALL AGES 9:00PM BOLIVIA SATURDAY, APRIL 6, 2013 GEORGE’S FABULOUS ROADHOUSE MORE INFO SOON - 19+ 10:00PM
FEATURES
March 21, 2013
argosy@mta.ca
The growing popularity of weed High times in the Great White North Cunnilingus, Part II In terms of positions, have her laying back on a comfortable surface. This gives both of you access to her clitoris and provides an angle that allows the provider to explore in comfort. If you feel you are straining your neck too much, try putting a few pillows under her tush or moving her to the end of a bed or the edge of a couch or chair. Make sure she is comfortable. Try to create a relaxing atmosphere and make sure that she doesn’t get cold (did someone say blanket tent?). For the adventurous: kneeling for her in the shower, or teasing her under the dinner table after “dropping your fork” near the end of a romantic meal, are a couple more far-out cunniligial exploits that can be pursued. Try straddling her, or kneeling beside her. Migrate your kisses slowly southward from her lips to her thighs, stopping to graze her pubic hair if she has any, while letting out a warm breath and maybe leaving behind a few gentle kisses before migrating north again. Not only is this a great way to make her burn with anticipation, it can be a beautiful way to appreciate your lovers body. She may wish to spread her legs wide and has perhaps started some suggestive gesturing while you’re down there narrowing in on her vulva. You may wish to hold her legs closed while continuing to kiss her thighs and outer labia building the anticipation up even higher. Once you find yourself perched comfortably between her opened legs, relax. Admire her, taste her, and look up to your lover’s face and see how she’s faring. Make sure she knows you are having a blast. I mean, how could you not be? From here, any numbers of options are possible and it is usually best to switch things up unless you
receive assertive demands (either vocal or through body language) to not stop. Many women can reach orgasm through oral sex and if an orgasm seems to be on the horizon, consistent motion and pressure (or potentially increasing pressure) tend to be important. Cunnilingus can be very tame or downright exhausting, and that’s all part of the fun. She may want some hard licking, in which case, get ready for a workout. In some cases, you may find that the requested intensity will require your entire face, which can make breathing a bit of a challenge. Pillows under her ass can help, but holding your breath might be the best way to deal out some intense bouts of all-encompassing oral stimulation. If you’re the one doling out the fun, you can have her ride your face while you lie on your back. Helping out your partner as he or she goes down on you can be incredibly hot. Plus, it can offer a break and an excellent opportunity for them to learn about your pussy preferences. You can also try fucking her with your tongue while asking her to take the wheel of the clit mobile. Don’t forget her nipples, ass, and other erogenous zones: good cunnilingus offers an excellent lesson in multitasking. We could go on and on with more specific suggestions, but that would make this a novel, not a column. Do your research: read more extensively about cunnilingus, and for gooodness’s sake, learn about female genitals! Remember, excellent cunnilingus requires excellent communication, lots of practice, and experimentation. Not all women enjoy it or can reach orgasm in this way, and that’s also totally fine! It is a constant learning process, so make it a fun one!
Cunnilingus is your ticket to Pleasuretown. (Lea Foy/Argosy)
Joshua Carlstrom Features Contributor In case you haven’t heard, cannabis has been legalized in the states of Washington and Colorado. To clarify, when a substance is decriminalized, it means that possessing small amounts no longer amounts to jail time, but being caught with large quantities is still grounds for imprisonment. A legalized substance does not carry automatic penalties for possession, but may nevertheless be taxed and regulated by the government. In the United States, cannabis has been decriminalized but never (before 2012) been legalized. This move to legalization is a part of a seemingly changing attitude towards the legal state of cannabis in North America. Whereas being tough on “illegal drugs” like cannabis was once a platform for public election, a poll last November showed that sixty-five per cent of Canadians are in favour of either legalization or decriminalization of marijuana. Before 1950, Canadians didn’t know much about marijuana. Its use was not visible to the public and arrests for its possession were low. It was during the fifties that youth began to be portrayed as dependent on the drug, and so its use was demonized in the media. The problems associated with addiction became a public issue, and in 1955 the Federal Government established the Senate Special Committee on the Traffic of Narcotic Drugs. As a result of the committee’s suggestions, stricter punishments were levied against those caught possessing any narcotics. Meanwhile, doctors began to think of addiction more in terms of disease, instead of crime, and advocated less prosecution for victims of drug addiction. During the 1960s, it became more evident that portrayals of cannabis users as murderous and lascivious, which were prevalent around the time of prohibition, were false. In 1969, the Le Dain commission began to submit reports supporting the gradual decriminalization of narcotics; they continued publishing reports to this effect until 1973. In 2000, a landmark decision changed the medical status of cannabis in Canada. The Ontario Court of Appeal decided in favour of Terrence Parker, an epileptic man
whose only medical recourse to his seizures was cannabis. It was declared unconstitutional to prohibit cannabis in Canada without exemption for medical use, prompting Health Canada to establish the MMAR. The Medical Marijuana Access Registration allowed doctors to prescribe cannabis to two categories of patients: those suffering from multiple sclerosis, HIV/AIDS, arthritis, or epilepsy, or those suffering from a debilitating symptom of some other medical condition whose treatment with cannabis is supported by a medical practitioner. Exemption from the MMAR used to allow patients the right to grow or designate a grower to supply them with cannabis. Despite the duties of the MMAR, the Ontario Court of Justice has struck down several attempts to convict on charges of possession, saying that there are no laws ensuring access to cannabis to patients requiring its medical use making the prohibition of cannabis unconstitutional. These decisions effectively removed the illegal status of cannabis in Ontario until laws to ensure medical access to cannabis. National changes to the legality of pot have been attempted before: in 2002 the Liberal government of Jean Chrétien introduced a bill that would have decriminalized possession of small amounts of cannabis. The b i l l was scrapped when parliament
was prorogued, meaning that parliament was put out of session and every bill proposed was erased. Many point to pressure from the US Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) to delete the bill or suffer decreased imports along the US-Canada border. Because of the prorogation, parliament never voted on the decriminalization of cannabis, leaving the debate unsettled. Another attempt at decriminalization by the Liberal government of Paul Martin was struck down due to the no confidence vote after the sponsorship scandal, yet again postponing any real parliamentary debate on the legalization or decriminalization of cannabis.
Recently, Matt Mernagh took a case to the Ontario Superior court regarding medical access under MMAR. Mernagh suffers from the debilitating conditions of fibromyalgia, epilepsy, scoliosis of the spine, and a brain tumour that induces seizures, causing extreme pain and partial paralysis. Though he has been prescribed over-the-counter medicines for pain management, he finds they make him drowsy and unproductive. According to Matt, he tried cannabis in college and it made his conditions manageable. Matt had trouble finding a doctor to sign the necessary forms to allow him exemption under the MMAR, the best he could manage was a note from a doctor saying that cannabis helped with his symptoms. Matt was forced to break the law to get the medicine that he needed to cope with illness. The court ruled in favour of Mernagh, once again holding prohibiting possession of cannabis as unconstitutional. Justice Donald Taliano gave the Harper government a deadline to fill in the gaps in his administration’s policy, which was extended until July 14, 2013. On February 1, the Ontario Court of Appeals ordered a retrial for Mernagh, citing errors made by Justice Taliano on the right to possess cannabis. The issue of medical cannabis access is under contention in other places too. New legalization will reverse the decisions in R v Sfetkopoulos where MMAR patients were not able to buy from the same cannabis purveyor. The changes to the MMAR will force patients to have cannabis shipped to them at nearly five times the price, making medication unaffordable for some. So what has changed? Throughout the period of cannabis prohibition attitudes and perspectives have shifted about the danger and criminality of cannabis possession. Reasons for prohibition have varied from preventing violent abuse to disrupting criminal cartels, to now, where the focus is on preventing corruption of youth and the “gateway” towards harder drugs. The thing that hasn’t changed is the support from the medical community for cannabis as medicine. Consistently, despite what is said about the dangers of cannabis, research and medicine both have supported cannabis for its medical benefits. To this day, no bills proposing decriminalization or legalization have been addressed in Parliament. When organizations like the Global Commission on Drug Policy, whose ranks include expresidents and prime ministers from some of the countries most affected by illegal drug trafficking, tell you that the war on drugs has failed, maybe it’s time to consider pulling out.
Only two more issues of The Argosy left to write for Features!
The Argosy
FEATURES
www.argosy.ca
19
Big Hanna Naming Competition Vote for your favourite entry from the shortlist below Soilmon & Greenfunkel Dirt & Ernie Peat & Terra Gaia & Demeter Beethoven & Bach
Cut out this ballot and deposit it in the boxes located in the MASU office or Gracie’s
20 FEATURES
March 21, 2013
argosy@mta.ca
Smoking habits draw heat Rev. John Perkin
University Chaplain I first heard the news of Pope Benedict’s resignation in the seven o’clock CBC newscast on Monday, February 11; I received my first call from a media source to offer perspective or insight into this unfolding news shortly after that, and less than half an hour later I was on air, being asked about possible future directions for the Roman Catholic Church. Now, a little more than a month later, Argentine Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio has been selected by the Papal Conclave and, as some affirm, the Holy Spirit, to serve as the 266th Pope, taking the name Francis. And everyone is wondering about the future direction of the Church. Already critics are highlighting the new Pope’s past in connection with the military junta that overthrew the Peron regime in 1976, followed by a reign of terror with the seizing, torturing, killingm and disappearing of thousands of those suspected of being leftists. Priests came under particular scrutiny, and many who did not side with the regime ended up becoming targets. Further criticism is levelled against his conservative tendencies in holding to traditional Catholic doctrine about gay marriage, contraception, and the role of women in the Church. But was anyone really expecting drastic and dramatic change or reform to come from the group of cardinals appointed under conservative Popes John Paul II and Benedict XVI? There are many issues facing the Roman Catholic Church worldwide; with 1.2 billion adherents around the world, the Church is facing declining numbers in Europe and North America; its largest numbers (about a third of the Church) are in Latin America, and there are signs of continued growth, enthusiasm, and commitment in Africa and Asia. Issues that many observers highlight include the need for reform in many areas: hierarchy and structure, finance and administration, handling of sexual abuse, theology and doctrine that needs to recognize the changes of the modern world, social issues (AIDS and gay rights chief among them), the role of women, and the forms of liturgy and worship. Speculation ran rampant over the past month about which issue would dominate, and how that might determine the outcome of the Papal Conclave and selection process. The papacy of John Paul II, which shaped the form of the Catholic Church for almost thirty years, was charismatic but conservative; travelling to 129 countries, he brought the message of holiness, orthodoxy of doctrine, but support for the reforms of the Second Vatican Council to the world. Following his leadership, the relatively brief papacy of
Pope Benedict was marked by scholarship, intellectualism, and still a firm line on traditional Catholic doctrine and practice, but little else. The Papacy came to be seen as out of step with its constituents and the world at large. The widely-touted front runners among the Catholic Cardinals represented theological reflection, administrative ability, governance–they seemed almost political choices. Then, Cardinal Bergoglio was elected, in a decision reminiscent of the selection of John Paul I in 1978, when the humble, unassuming Cardinal Albino Luciani was selected Pope; he was Pope only thirty-three days, dying suddenly shortly after taking office. Perhaps the Spirit was at work here. Pope Francis is a man of the people, whose style and whose task will be to connect the Church leadership once more with ordinary Catholics around the world, many of them poor. Principally a pastor, less an administrator or theologian, his selection marks an opportunity for the ordinary Catholics of the world to feel that the leader of their Church is aware of them and cares for them. A compromise, surely, this selection. A non-European, but of such recent European lineage that he can surely appeal to both the European and Latin American communities. At seventy-six, he is probably not destined for a lengthy papacy, so he may have limited opportunity to create or prevent change. A conservative who holds to traditional Catholic doctrine and teachings on many issues, his voice is usually heard speaking out on other issues, particularly care for the poor and marginalized. Not an administrator, he is more truly a pastor. The Papal name chosen, Francis, of course suggests Saint Francis of Assisi, the thirteenthcentury friar who dedicated his life to the care of the earth and the poor. The Pope has long been known as one who identifies with the poor, and so his choice of name is congruent with his own past; as Pope Francis stated of the man who inspired his name selection, he is the man “who gives us this spirit of peace, the poor man,” adding, “How I would like a poor Church, and for the poor.” Critics are emerging quickly, but at the same time enthusiasm has already been expressed by many people for a Pope who seems to not only speak for them, but to them. The work of Francis may well be to give confidence to the world’s Catholics, especially those in the Southern Hemisphere, knowing that they have an advocate, a pastor, a shepherd. It may well be business as usual for the Catholic Church under Pope Francis, but perhaps with renewed confidence among the lay people will come new authority and strength– only the Holy Spirit knows for sure, and only time will tell.
Smoking marijuana is becoming more popular as tobacco declines. (Kory d’Entremont/Argosy)
Marijuana use may be worse than cigarettes Jessie Byrne Features Writer Reducing the number of cigarette smokers has been the aim of several public health forums for years now. In 1989, smoking was banned from all flights, and in 2001, designated smoking rooms were installed in restaurants and bars. This was accepted until 2004, when smoking in public places was banned altogether. Today, smokers are not permitted inside a public place, and they must maintain a minimum distance from the building. Of course, for many people, these mandates make a lot of sense. Smoking cigarettes is known to cause a variety of health problems, with second-hand smoke causing many of the same issues for non-smokers. People between the ages of twenty and twenty-four have the highest rates of smoking as compared with all the other age groups, and the Maritime provinces are known for having the highest rates of smoking per capita. As a result of this, Canadian provinces are starting to ban smoking on campus all together. As opposed to half a century ago, we’re now taught from a young age that smoking is bad for you. We’re told that you don’t look cool doing it. Rather, it is increasingly the case that smokers are put into a light where the habit is considered
unattractive and disgusting. “I often get told that I’m too young to smoke,” said one student who describes herself as a habitual cigarette smoker. “Or someone tells me that I look unattractive. I’ve never been told ‘oh, you look cool,’” she laughs. “And for some reason, I get a lot of people telling me it’s bad for my health, as if I didn’t know.” So why is it that cigarettes have such a bad reputation, but marijuana has flown under the radar? “If my parents found out I was smoking cigarettes, they’d be really mad,” says one Mt A. student. “But they know I smoke weed and they weren’t really fazed.” The British Lung Foundation found that seventy-eight percent of teenagers believe that marijuana isn’t harmful, especially not in comparison to tobacco. They report that while there is a wealth of research and studies examining the effects of cigarettes, there are relatively little facts on the effects of marijuana. We’ve all heard someone say it– “Weed isn’t bad for you. It’s a plant. It’s not like drugs that are chemically manufactured.” This might be true; however, what people forget is that you are inhaling smoke; regardless of it’s from a cigarette or a joint. And what many don’t know is, smoking marijuana is actually more harmful than smoking cigarettes. In a study conducted by the British Lung Foundation, it was found that marijuana causes many of the same health issues as cigarettes. Habitual marijuana smokers were found to have a significantly higher prevalence of chronic and acute respiratory symptoms. They were also found to be
at a higher risk for heart disease and various forms of cancer. In addition, while smoking cigarettes is known as a relaxer, smoking marijuana causes many psychological symptoms that cigarettes do not. The main effects of marijuana are having a distorted sense of time, being paranoid, and having random thoughts, short-term memory loss, and anxiety. Longterm psychological effects in chronic users show deficits in connection with the learning and memory area of the brain, especially in those who started smoking weed in their teens. In terms of respiratory and cardiac health issues, it was found that these are actually compounded in marijuana smokers. The British Lung Foundation study reported that smoking three to four joints a day would cause the same damage as smoking twenty tobacco cigarettes. This is because marijuana tends to be smoked in a way that increases the puff volume by two-thirds and the depth of inhalation by one-third. Additionally, breathholding time is four times longer when smoking a joint, than if you are smoking a cigarette. It has also been estimated that smoking weed results in a fourfold greater amount of tar inhaled. Again, this is due to the longer breath-holding time and differences in filtering characteristics. So, while dangers of tobacco are highly publicized and well known, it doesn’t mean the dangers of marijuana are non-existent. At the end of the day, neither substance is good to put into your body. So next time you go to light up, keep in mind what you’re risking, regardless of what’s rolled in the papers.
Smoking stats * 45,000 Canadians die annually in part because of smoking. * It is estimated that there are roughly five million regular smokers in Canada. * Smoking has declined steadily among youth in recent decades. * Smoking is most common among men, with the highest rates overall in our very own province of New Brunswick. source: cancer.ca
SCIENCE
March 21, 2013
argosy@mta.ca
Exploring the new Tomb Raider This week in gaming Latest release met with nearly universal praise Martin Omes Science Correspondent Action-adventure games have really been stepping out as a leading gametype this year, as Tomb Raider is another excellent game that keeps you captivated.The game starts out with Lara setting out aboard a ship called Endurance to locate the lost Japanese kingdom of Yamatai. After ending up in Dragon’s Triangle (exactly the same as Bermuda Triangle), the boat splits in two, stranding everyone on an isolated island. Similar to Far Cry 3, Lara is now lost and by herself, and is trying to locate her friends while continuing to find the missing kingdom. When it comes to
Lara Croft games, the expectation is usually a game full of isolation and discovery, and naturally this game does not disappoint. Although it is similar to both Far Cry 3 and the Uncharted series–both are excellent games–this game takes you on an exciting new adventure. It seemed as though I was watching an amazing movie as I played. You experience Lara fighting for survival and suffering through punishment to turn into a confident survivor. Extremely enjoyable graphics ran parallel with the island in the game, with a mix of temples and shrines, World War II bunkers, and broken down planes, the sights bring this game to life. A key feature of the game is that the enemies were challenging when you were spotted. When behind cover, they tend to throw in grenades to keep you moving so you don’t end up camping throughout the entire battle. I also quite enjoyed the savage animations the game would come up with when Lara would
defeat an enemy that would come too close to you. As great as the combat scenes were in the game, I actually enjoyed the quitter/puzzle moments in the game. Climbing up walls, determining paths, and trick jumping, with the simple controls and the great environment, was the key to the successful adventure. The puzzles in the game are challenging enough to make you think for a bit, but don’t drag down the adventure and pace of the game. The multiplayer in this game, to put it lightly, is unremarkable. If you are planning on trying out this game, do not get it for the multiplayer, as I found it extremely weak, and clearly a waste of time, as the campaign provides most of the enjoyment of the game. This game is not re-writing the books on third-person actionadventure games, but with its amazing controls, engaging heroine, thrilling combat and exhilarating setting, this game definitely deserves an 8.5/10.
Camel fossils found in Arctic Researchers find evidence of an extinct camel in Canadian Arctic Allison O’Reilly Science Correspondent A team of researchers from the Canadian Museum of Nature have identified evidence of an extinct giant camel in Canada’s High Arctic. Thirty fossil fragments of a leg bone were found on Ellesmere Island, Nunavut, and represent the most northern discovery of these early camels. The bones were collected at the Fyles Leaf Bed site, which is a sandy deposit near Strathcona Fiord on Ellesmere Island–the most northern and mountainous region of the Canadian Arctic. The fossils were collected over three summer field sessions, and are dated at approximately three and a half million years old. Other fossils of wood, leaves, and other plant material found at the site show that this camel lived in a boreal-type environment. During this time, the region was much warmer than today, hovering around a few degrees below zero. The cold climate of Ellesmere Island preserved connective tissue on the specimens called collagen. Collagen
fingerprinting is a new technique used to distinguish between fossils of mammals, and the collagen profile made using this technique confirmed that the bones belonged to a camel. Using chemical markers for the peptides that make up the collagen, a collagen profile was developed that could be used to compare other camels. It was found that this camel is closely related to the Yukon giant camel, which is thought to be Paracamelus, the closest ancestor to modern camels. This High Arctic camel could potentially be the same species. T h i s f o s s i l r e c o r d provides a better understanding of the evolution of camels. Camels have inhabited northern North America for millions of years, and scientists are now suggesting that these camel ancestors originated on Ellesmere Island. Important physical characteristics suggest that the fossil fragments were part of a large tibia– the lower-leg bone in mammals. It also suggests that the fossils belonged to artiodactyls, which is a group of cloven-hoofed animals. The ancient camel stood almost three meters tall at the hump, which
is about a third higher than its modern descendant, the Arabian camel. Scientists claim that the extinct mammal may have already had the wide, flat feet and fatty hump that is often associated with desert life, and that these adaptations could have helped the animal endure harsh, snow-covered habitats. So far, no other mammals have been unearthed at the site near Fyles Leaf Bed, but at another nearby site, researchers have uncovered remnants from a beaver, a three-toed horse, and a badger that lived during t h e same t i m e p e r i o d . The bones of this High Arctic camel are being housed in the Canadian Museum of Nature’s research and collections facility in Gatineau, Quebec. The Canadian Museum of Nature is Canada’s national museum of natural history, and the museum’s legacy of Arctic research dates back to the first Canadian Arctic Expedition of 1913. Graphic by Sally Hill
Fourth Annual SMILE Walk/Run March 23, 2013. 9:00 am Please join us in raising funds and awareness to promote programs benefiting developmental support for children with special needs in our region! You have the choice between 5km and 10km routes! Registration and pledge forms are available online at www.runningroom.com and registration is $10. Contact: Jefferson Hayre – 506 962 5621 – jahayre@mta.ca
Envy Controllers offers custom controllers. (Martin Omes/Argosy)
New Assassin’s Creed trailer and Envy Controllers Martin Omes Science Correspondent This past weekend was the annual Major League Gaming Winter Championships, which was held this year in Dallas, Texas. With some exciting action in Starcraft 2: HotS, League of Legends and Call of Duty: Black Ops 2, the Winter Championships was an exciting event to watch. Personally, I was absorbed in the Black Ops 2 action, where I had friends who were competing to qualify for the one-million-dollar World Championship in Hollywood that is going to be held April 2 and 3. The top eight teams in the tournament would guarantee an automatic entry into the event, where during the breaks, stars such as Kanye West and Dropkick Murphys will be appearing. As it came down to the wire, top-seeded Fariko Impact took down second place Seeded Unite Gaming in a continuation series, defeating them 6-2. A special congratulations goes out to team Donut Shop from Mississauga, Ontario, who captured the eighth and final spot into the championships and to Montreal’s Raymond “Rambo” Lussier, who qualified with his team EnvyUs. In Starcraft 2, it came as no surprise to many gamers that the final came down to two Koreans, where top-seeded Life took down third-seeded Flash 4-2, but in a shocker, eighteenth-seeded Innovation took third place, defeating multi-tournament champion MC. In League of Legends, KT Rolster B took down favourites Gambit Gaming 2-1 in a thriller that came down to a baron push. Overall, another exciting event in the books. Make sure you tune into the worlds in September! The release of the trailer Assassin’s Creed IV: Black Flag has been met with mixed reactions so far by many fans. The story will move to the earlier half of the eighteenth century, where piracy is the thriving business in
North America. The trailer gives the story of the main character, Edward Kenway, as given by legendary pirate Blackbeard to his fellow pirates. Montreal-based Ubisoft is working towards building what they describe as the “first true naval overworld.” As a Legend of Zelda fan, I feel as though I would have to disagree, since The Wind Waker had that concept, but nonetheless, the ambition is well noted. In Black Flag, the ocean-based warder will be more complex than before, adding more weapon types, enemies, and even exploiting weather patterns, by luring opposition into less than ideal conditions. The trailer is actually one of the best trailers I have seen in years. Most fans are hoping this series doesn’t start to turn into Call of Duty, with too many game releases and with few upgrades, but it is a game worth checking out regardless. The release date is October 29, 2013. Envy Controllers has just hopped onto the gaming scene, providing a new aspect of the gaming spectrum. They have formed a team of gamers, artist, and painters to take gaming to the next level. I can’t say I am the only one bored with traditional black or white controllers who would like to have my own specialized controller. How many times have you brought one of your own controllers to your friend’s house where you can never remember at the end which one is yours. The cool aspect of this, similar to designing your own car, is that you get to create your own controller. I was very fortunate to meet head designer Alec Matlock at Gamers 4 Giving, and he actually personalized my own controller using the Gamers Outreach logo. The controllers actually provide a solution to an issue that most gamers probably didn’t realize was a problem. Have you ever had that problem when someone shoots you from behind and your controller takes too long for you to turn around? Well, that problem is gone with the custom design of the No-Slow controllers that allows for quick 180 spins to turn on your enemies. Although these controllers may be on the expensive side, with custom thumbsticks and trim kits, this is a must-see for any console gamer who does not play just casually.
HUMOUR
March 21, 2013
argosy@mta.ca
Across
1- Curved like a bow; 8- Suffered humiliation; 15- Netherlands queen; 16- Hold as an opinion; 17- Shining; 18- Books of maps; 19- Choose; 20- Cowboy display; 22- Leftover; 23- ___ boy!; 24- Little bits; 25- Melt together; 26- Lush; 27- Segment of the body of an
arthropod; 28- Dead duck; 29- Commentary; 31- Load; 32- Boy or man; 33- Flutter; 34- Taking place around an axis; 37- Unite; 41- Nicholas Gage book; 42- Curt; 43- Pale; 44- Mother of Ares; 45- 1957 hit for the Bobbettes; 46- Waist band;
47- Implement used when rowing a boat; 48- Some Celts; 49- Bobby of the Black Panthers; 50- Mythical creature; 52- Capital of New Jersey; 54- Scoffed; 55- Serious in intention; 56- Like harp seals; 57- Arbitrator;
13- Supervise; 14- Shoot-’em-up; 21- Siouan speaker; 24- With no emotion; 25- Specialty; 27- Pong maker; 28- Duplicity; 30- Appliance brand; 31- World-weary; 33- “The African Queen” author C. S.; 34- Give another abode; 35- 1992 David Mamet play;
36- Small dog; 37- Prison room; 38- Knitted jacket; 39- Having thickened or hardened skin; 40- International accord; 42- General tendencies; 45- Female horses; 46- Sesamum indicum; 48- Clotted blood; 49- Slave; 51- Animation unit; 53- Actress Charlotte;
Down 1- Side by side; 2- Real-estate dealer; 3- Member of the Girl Scouts; 4- Mohawk River city; 5- I smell ___!; 6- Metal, often used as a container; 7- Facing outward; 8- Iranian city; 9- French beans?; 10- Cockney greeting; 11- The Company; 12- Echo;
(CUP) — Puzzles provided by BestCrosswords.com. Used with permission.
The answers to last ISSUE’S crossword
Five solid pieces of sex advice from five popular songs Lyrics for a better time between the sheets Viv Steele
The Other Press (Douglas College) NEW WESTMINSTER (CUP) — Where did you learn about sex? Probably from a forty-something educator in a mayonnaise-coloured high school classroom, and your instruction probably included a diagram of the uterus and a shapeless wooden penis upon which to roll a condom. So where are you supposed to go to learn about good sex? Never fear, I’ve got you covered, with five hot and
juicy sex tips from five of your fave pop stars! “Touch me and gimme that rush, better pack a toothbrush, gonna pull an all-nighter.” — Ke$ha At first listen, the track “C’mon” by Ke$ha seems like a simple song about hooking up, but going deeper, it’s actually a well-written ode to preparation and oral hygiene onthe-go. The sassy, pro-sex songstress likes to get a little crazy, but “C’mon” contains some super-positive messages about taking control of your sexuality, like the chorus that states, “We’re both going home satisfied.” Ke$ha’s getting her orgasm whether she has to stay up all night or not. And afterwards, she’ll brush her teeth and go home. “Gotta be compatible.” — Ginuwine I haven’t heard such great advice since the last time I read one of my own articles! “Pony” by Ginuwine
is an oldie but a goodie, a danceable treatise on grindalicious chick-on-top action. Above all, the song promotes teamwork, weaving a sophisticated metaphor where he’s the horse and she’s the jockey and they’re bolting for the finish line together. The focus on compatibility is key, because as we all know, sometimes things just don’t click. Ginuwine also promotes foreplay: “You and your body, every single portion.” Yum — not to mention the song is incredible to fuck to. “Lick my pussy and my crack.” — Khia Another classic R&B raunch track coming to you from 2002, Khia’s “My Neck, My Back (Lick It)” really drives the point home. She wants you to lick her pussy and her crack, and she’s not afraid to say it about twenty-one times. The real meat of this song is in the chorus, but in the first verse she makes
sure to provide some specific direction: “Then you roll your tongue from the crack back to the front, then suck it off ‘til I shake and cum.” Noted. “You looking for a real pussy eater? I can be it.” — Danny Brown If Khia’s modus operandi is to tell you what she wants, newcomer Danny Brown’s “I Will” provides even more details on how to get her there. Brown’s track promotes utter abandon. “I go dumb and ignorant when I’m on that clitoris,” says Brown. The key, according to Brown and Khia, is to involve some ass play. “Lick your ass delirious, my tongue game so damn serious.” Serious it is. Promoting enthusiasm, dedication and a willingness to try new things, Danny Brown’s lyrics contain several tips that are crucial to providing a satisfying cunnilingus experience.
“Striptease for me baby.” — Hawksley Workman Pouty Canadian bad boy Hawksley Workman’s rock and roll entry on my list may seem a little tame compared to the R&B onslaught of sex, but maybe it’s a good idea to calm you all down. And the song “Strip Tease” does offer some excellent advice, although it’s mostly contained in the chorus. Workman wants his girlfriend to striptease for him, which I think is a sentiment that a lot of folks can agree with. Ladies, when you’re practicing to striptease for your partner, keep in mind that this song by Workman is an excellent jam to take your clothes off to. Actually, any of the songs on this list will do. Are you sensing a theme here? Good sex. It’s equal parts compatibility, preparedness and reckless abandon. And for the love of God, eat pussy.
The Argosy
HUMOUR
www.argosy.ca
1. That guy you’ve been spending all night flirting with? Yeah, he’s probably your cousin. 2. You might not know them, but everyone knows you. After all, they were bridge partners with your great-grandmother’s second cousin’s dog walker’s nephew. 3. When you return to a normal-sized town, stoplights, and even crossing the street become quite confusing. 4. There always seems to be more wildlife around than people. 5. If you need to go out, but are in a hurry, wear a disguise. Otherwise, you’ll get sucked into a conversation with someone who knows you, and who absolutely needs to tell you that you look just like your eighty-four-year-old grandfather. Thank you?
23
6. Even in a small town, it’s still possible to get lost. You take one wrong turn on your way to the ice cream store and next thing you know, you’re in the middle of a parade with no escape except to pull an illegal U-turn. 7.
You don’t have to worry about dating your friends’ exes; there’s no one else to date.
8. If you try to plan anything, just tell people there will be free food. Next thing you know, everyone’s at your place. 9. People get REALLY competitive about the Sunday softball leagues. Like, “Let’s recruit our third cousin twice removed who was once a part of a national softball team”competitive. 10. They know how to party.
Did you know? YOU are an Argosy funder! Have input on YOUR newspaper Today in The Argosy office! On the Agenda: Year-in-Review and Editor-In-Chief Approval Help Steer the Boat! 5:30 pm 3rd Floor of the WMSC
The Argosy is hiring for next year! Detailed job descriptions available in The Argosy office or at www.argosy.ca What we need: -Resume, with particular attention given to any writing and editing experience -Cover letter describing why you’re interested in the position and why you make an epic candidate -Two writing samples (For editor and writer positions only)
Send your application to argosy@mta.ca Indicate in your email which position(s) you would like to be considered for (up to three).
Application deadline for all positions: March 22, 2013 Need more information? Drop by The Argosy office: 3rd flood WMSC!