Acadia’s Student Newspaper since 1874 November 20th , 2014 Issue 77.5
“ The question is: what is the foundation of our Acadia community?” -page 9
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Power to The People Alex Quesnel News Editor In the interest of bringing history to life, students from Dr. Dennis’ American history class HIST 3323 performed a little-known played called The People – A Journal of the Social Revolution on 3 November. The performance was made before a live audience of history and theatre enthusiasts, and featured all members of the class in a contributing role. Whether as an actor, stage director, or audience interpreter, students of HIST 3323 played a collective role in the The Athenaeum Acadia University’s Student News Paper Issue 77.5 ASU Box 6002, Acadia University Wolfville, NS, Canada B4P 2R5 Editor In Chief: Stephanie Bethune email: eic@acadiau.ca SUB room 512 EIC Office Hours: Sunday 2:00-5:00 Advertising Enquiries: mark.pound@gmail.com Business Enquiries: 116765m@acadiau.ca Editor In Chief Staff Writers Hailey Winder Stephanie Bethune Sarah MacKinnon Section Editors Art: Riley MacKinnon Will Cann News: Alex Quesnel Contributors Ben Grieder Opinions: Tess Pooran Billy Van Ekris Sport: Laura Jeha Cailin Wilson Production Manager Dan Aurell Megan Stanton Emily Lutz Photo Manager Jalen Sabean Robin Lawson Jon Smith Copy Editor Kanika Anand Trevor Braxton-Barto Quinn Mastromonaco Online Manager Ryan Rioux Deirdre Campbell Shea Seale Advertising Manager Suleiman Semalulu Mark Pound Cover Art: Business Manager Chase McRobie Robyn McMillan
The Athenaeum is the official student newspaper of Acadia University and is published in print and online year-round at theath.ca. The opinions expressed herein do not represent the Acadia Students Union or the staff of the Athenaeum, they are held by the individuals who contribute to the Athenaeum as essential members of our completely studentrun newspaper Articles submitted will be published at the discretion of the editorial board. If there is content that we feel will not add to the philosophy, dialogue, or tone of our newspaper, it will not be published. That being said, all of our staff members look forward to working together with writers to improve their quality of writing, and to make sure the Athenaeum remains professional and well-rounded. The Athenaeum may accept submissions from any student or member of our campus, present and past, and is always looking for more writers and photographers. If you are looking for coverage of an event or story, would like to notify us of a complaint or correction, or would like to submit a letter to the editor, contact Stephanie Bethune at eic@acadiau.ca There are open story meetings every Wednesday at 6pm in the Athenaeum office, room 512 in the SUB—all are welcome, and we encourage you to come!
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play’s success. Susan Glaspell, perhaps best known for her 1916 play Trifles, wrote The People in 1917. The Provincetown Players of Provincetown, Massachusetts, first performed it as a part of the production company’s first full season in New York City. Glaspell and her associates were all socially consciousness individuals and they became prominent figures in the Progressive Era of the United States. Moreover they contributed significantly to the literary left of the era. Through her work, Glaspell highlighted the struggles of the American working class. She believed that her art could convey political messages and portray the struggles of ordinary Americans. The People was no exception. The play focuses on a handful of New York City intellectuals struggled to
keep their independent newspaper from folding. With each character trying to establish his or her own vision for the paper, it becomes difficult for the institution to function. This predicament parallels the real socialist newspaper known as The Masses, which existed from 1911 to 1917. Its editor was Max Eastman, a prominent figure is the Greenwich Village intellectual scene. The paper covered taboo topics such as women’s rights and labour struggles. However the radical ideas featured in The Masses were met with harsh resistance from the federal government, who shut the paper down for its perceived un-American content during the First World War. The People captures the spirit of social protest and activism that was so common in the Progressive Era. For Dr. Dennis’ students, these themes are certainly familiar. The course name of HIST 3323 is “Dissent and Conformity in Modern America.” The history of the United States at the turn of the twentieth century is bursting with instances of social engagement and political crusading.
From rail to trail:
Dr. Dennis does a brilliant job of articulating these developments to the class via his engaging lectures. The performance of The People was an effort to bring the class that much closer to the ethos of Susan Glaspell and her contemporaries. Dr. Dennis’ history students performed this play in hopes to better understand the dynamic period that produced it. They were successful. Through The People, students realized an integral element of what class HIST 3323 is trying to achieve: bringing the past to life in a meaningful way. All students took pride in their project and dedicated themselves to a successful performance. The actors worked tirelessly to memorize and properly enunciate their lines. Non-performing students were also mobilized to help out on the art, publicity, and stage-managing approaches. Some individuals also functioned as historical experts in order to introduce the play to an audience in need of historical context. All things considered, the play was an acting, advertising, and academic triumph.
ers clearing away brush along the rail line in order for contractors to ascertain topographical data for pathway construction. Consulting with people who live along the railway has alBen Grieder ready begun, according to Meg CumContributor ing, in order to make sure all possible On a surprisingly warm Thursday to destroy the naturally deteriorat- problems and grievances from landnight, people from across the region ing railway system from Village of owners about the trial are addressed gathered together to talk about the Greenwich to the Town Hansport. before construction begins. The exfuture of cycling in the Annapolis pected completion of the trail is late Valley. The Greenwich Fire Hall was Meg Cuming has secured $100,000 summer, 2015. moderately filled with citizens from grant for the Greenwich Rail Trail all age groups. Meg Cuming, Man- pathway from the Nova Scotia Moves People have already started to talk ager of Recreation Services for the program and already has many part- about how this Greenwich trail secMunicipality of the County of Kings, ners involved including the Green- tion will impact the future Blue Route lead the introduction of the meeting wich Pathway Society and the Nova Project. This project will highlight with general information about the Scotia Department of Energy. Due to huge length of trail that will extend Greenwich rail to trail system. She a lack of available funds, the pathway between Wolfville and Annapolis expanded on her presentation by in- will not be paved and will consist Royal. Bike tournaments are already cluding future plans to integrate the of a new type of gravel cover, differ- being planned for long-distance trail Grand Pre rail line into the existing ent from the Wolfville, New Minas biking along the Rail Trail route. Rail Trail pathway extending from and Kentville trail systems. AcWoflville. cording project experts, this gravel There are plenty of concerns about cover should be bike friendly as well the project and a large amount of The new Greenwich Rail Trail Section as tractor resistant and will require concerns from local citizens that will be 10 feet wide and will run par- minimum maintenance compared a land baron who lives most of the allel to the existing railway instead to other existing pathway construc- year in Virginia, USA, is dictating the of replacing it. The reason for this tions. There is no detailed plan for to terms of this trail project. Farmers according to Cuming is that the cur- present to the public due to continu- are concerned over the environmenrent owner of the railway and land ing deliberation among the partners tal effects of leaving rusting iron in the railway resides on, wants to pre- involved as well as longer than usual the ground for so long. Many people serve the structure for future devel- negotiations with the leasing partner, along the trail are concerned that opment. Bob Smidtt, CEO and owner Bob Smidtt. ATV’s will ignore the rules against of Windsor and Hansport Rail Commotorized vehicles on the trail. One pany, views the Annapolis Valley as a If anyone were to explore the rail- thing is fore sure about this new trail prime location for future tourism and way area in Greenwich right now, section; there are a lot of mixed reachousing development and refuses they would witness municipal work- tions. What is yours?
the new pathway across Greenwich
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Grad Student Profiles
These profiles are brought to you by AGSA, Acadia graduate students’ Association. If you want to be featured contact Lyndsay Sprado, president of AGSA at agsapresident@acadiau.ca. Best advice you’ve ever received: “The world is yours Emily, dream as big as you want.” (From my Mom) If you could eat lunch with anyone, who would it be and what would you order? Captain Kathryn Janeway of the Starfleet starship USS Voyager. I’d order coffee and sushi. Hopes for your research impact on the world? Help rural municipalities, on limited funds, design spaces that are interesting, fun, and foster social justice and community cohesion, that are also environmentally friendly and full of life, and accessible to everyone.
Kanika Anand Emily Lutz Name: Kanika Anand. Age: 26 Hometown: New Delhi, India. Program: Masters in Statistics. Length of program: 2 years.
Name: Emily Joelle Lutz. Hometown: Rockland, Nova Scotia (South Berwick). Program: Social and Political Thought.
Current research question/area: Computer experiments.
Length of program: 2 years.
Supervisor: Dr. Pritam Ranjan and Dr. Hugh Chipman. Morning glory or night owl? Night owl. Inspiration hits you where? In the head. Why Acadia? A smaller university is what I always wanted to be at... Its more personalised attention and everyone cares about everyone else. Fave spot in the valley: Look off. What’s grad school like so far? Very busy and inspiring. How do you deal with stress? Coffee with a friend. I wish I knew how to: Research in detail since first day of thesis. Next trip? Cape Breton. Best advice you’ve ever received: Take it easy and deal with patience. If you could eat lunch with anyone, who would it be and what would you order? Anyone fun to be with and I will order meat lasagna. Hopes for your research impact on the world? I am very confident I will make something out of the skill set I possess because of working on my research.
Current research question/area: A Critical Examination of Social Space in Rural Nova Scotia Communities. Supervisor: Dr. Andrew Biro. Morning glory or night owl? Morning Glory! Inspiration hits you where? The dance studio when I am teaching classes, or an improper shivasana during yoga (aka mind is not clear, but full of thesis thoughts). Why Acadia? Close to home and my three younger siblings, located in the most beautiful place ever. Fave spot in the valley: The top of the orchard on my family’s farm, looking down over the valley from the top of the South Mountain, in late September, eating a Honeycrisp. What’s grad school like so far? A collective of like minded people that are all as busy as you are, with whom you can engage in meaningful and relevant conversations. How do you deal with stress? Knitting/Crocheting, growing plants, yoga every day, dancing, wine, laughter, surrounding myself with people who are good for the soul. “ME TIME”. I wish I knew how to: Speak French and bake delicious baguettes. Next trip? Peru 2015 with my main squeeze Cassian.
Hey, Rosetta!
European mission to comet inspires world Alex Quesnel News Editor After travelling for over a decade in outer space, the European Space Agency’s Rosetta space probe successfully deployed its lander to Comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko. The mission was launched on 2 March 2004 with hopes of being the first of its kind to explore the surface of a comet. The spacecraft entered the comet’s orbit on 6 August 2014. Finally, early in the morning of 12 November 2014, the Philae lander was deployed from the Rosetta orbiter and began its dramatic 20 km descent to the comet surface. The ESA received a signal from the Philae lander hours later, capping off the historic mission. The Rosetta mission has been hailed as a turning point in space exploration. In the words of ESA director general Jean-Jacques Dordain, the landing was “a big step for civilization.” Comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko is composed of material that has remained unchanged for billions of years. Since comets are known to have bombarded Earth in its infancy, many scientists hope that the Philae lander may offer clues about the origins of life. In an interview with CBC News, comet expert Karl Battams extolled the mission as “completely revolutionary for comet science.” The successful landing was just the latest in a series of firsts for the ESA mission. In August, the Rosetta orbiter became the first spacecraft to orbit a comet’s nucleus. Its groundbreaking work continued in November when it dispatched the robotic lander Philae for the first controlled touchdown on a comet. On 13 November, the lander sent back to earth the first images of a comet’s surface, including a captivating panoramic view of its immediate surroundings. Unfortunately the Rosetta mission was not without complications. To put things in perspective, the comet is only about
four kilometres in diameter and travelling at a maximum velocity of over 135,000 km/h. This made the landing procedure challenging for the ESA. Moreover after separation from the Rosetta orbiter there were indications of a problem with Philae’s thrusters. For this reason the lander was unable to adequately grip the comet surface with its harpoons. Gravity on Comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko is approximately seven hundred thousand times weaker than that on Earth. Early reports stated that it bounced upon initial touchdown with the comet. When the lander finally settled on the surface, it found itself perched in the shadow of a cliff. Scientists quickly began to voice their concern about the comet’s remaining battery life. Since Philae ending up in a dark area void of sunlight, the lander’s solar panels were rendered useless. It was only equipped with a sixty-hour charge and as a result the mission’s future on the surface of the comet was in jeopardy. The ESA made several last-ditch attempts to carry out science experiments before Philae ran out of power. On 14 November, the lander fell silent in a bittersweet conclusion to a historic mission. But the Rosetta story does not end there. The orbiter still remains in the comet’s thin atmosphere, taking pictures and conducting tests. In fact, Rosetta will continue to orbit Comet 67P/ChuryumovGerasimenko for some time. By August 2015 the comet will make its closest approach to the Sun. The ESA anticipates their orbiter will serve as the comet’s escort during this time, conducting important tests as activity on the comet increases. There are even hopes that as the comet approaches the Sun, the Philae lander will be able to absorb more sunlight and, in effect, come back to life. Whether or not this will happen remains to be seen. Time will tell what the future holds for this remarkable and triumphant episode of space exploration.
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NA, NA NA, NA NA NA NA). Some other standouts include the jangly and catchy “Bikeage” that leads into the album’s closer. “Bikeage” carries on the unrequited love song theme of “Hope”, a template that would carry over into future Descendents albums such as I Don’t Want to Grow Up and Everything Sucks. The albums fights back and forth between hardcore and pop until the closer, “Jean Is Dead”, which marries these two styles into a song that makes you want to start the album over again. It is only twenty minutes anyways, why not start again?
hardcore amour:
Descendents’ Milo Goes to College Christian Vail Contributor The “punk uniform” is stupid. I like my band shirts, my patch-covered vest, and my Black Flag and Manic Street Preachers tattoos, but that is not enough for a lot of people. If you dare dress in anything other than crust pants and battle jacket with a green mohawk and more piercings than skin on your face, you are a poseur in a LOT of punk circles. Despite my few clothes and tattoos that would fall under “punk uniform”, my U2 shirts, glasses, NASCAR bracelet, and Prince tattoo ultimately make me a poseur to a lot of people. It used to frustrate me that if I happened to bump into someone who liked my Black Flag shirt and wanted to talk about punk would suddenly seem disappointed to find out that I listened to Wham! more than I listened to Bad Brains. Hell, I still listen to Wham! more than I listen to most artists. It was frustrating trying to be part of a scene that thought I was lame, and as a result I do not have many friends who are into punk music (the closest being me and a few friends’ obsession with Blink-182, another poseur move I have been told). When I found the Descendents, particularly their debut LP Milo Goes to College, I did not care about being punk anymore.
Sure, hardcore already had a dress down approach of t-shirts and jeans, but that in itself became a uniform. It suddenly mattered which band was on your shirt, what kind of boots you wore, etc. The Descendents look can be summed up as: nerdy as hell. Fronted by a biochemist with the thickest glasses you will ever see, singer Milo Aukerman’s overly geeky persona led to the now iconic nerd logo that represents the band and graces their album covers starting with Milo Goes to College. The band even goes so far as to have a song called “I’m Not A Punk” on this album, something that makes it hard to reach out to anyone who is into punk for the image. Aside from the nerd pride of songs like “Mass Nerder” (which came much later in their catalogue), the Descendents brought something else radically different to hardcore punk: melodies. Not only were the songs melodic, but some of them were love songs. If you have not figured it out already, you can blame the Descendents for pop-punk.
Milo Goes to College plays similarly to most early hardcore albums despite these few glaring differences. The production and approach is similar to early Black Flag recordings, as these bands were closely tied in The Decendents are the anti-fashion their earlier years. This is one album punk band that I was looking for. that I will write about that I highly
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Photo Credit: Christian Vail recommend that you listen to all the way through, as the entire album is about 22 minutes long. Seriously, I am going off on how great this band and album are and it is only just over twenty minutes long. I listened to it while having lunch recently and the album was over before I had even had my coffee. If I can listen to an entire album before I have even had the first of my daily coffee intake, you can take the time to listen to it. The most striking and enduring song on the album is definitely “Suburban Home,” an angry and sarcastic ode to the American Dream. While Black Flag was screaming to “Rise Above,” the Descendents were a few streets over screaming that they “want a house just like mom and dad.” The band further shows off their hardcore chops with the incredibly groovy blast of anger in “Parents” and the brute force of “I’m Not A Loser”. These songs set up the first side of the album as being fairly typical hardcore punk with a little something special that you cannot really pick out until the second half. These following songs on the second half are what, in my opinion, make Milo Goes to College such an important hardcore punk album. The biggest standout in terms of this album’s influence on the punk scene comes from the track “Hope”, which may be the most bitter and creepy love song ever. The track lacks the early-hardcore drive of the rest of the album, instead focusing on a sing-along melody and instrumentals that are undeniably pop despite their punk flavours, paving the way for Blink-182 to turn the lights off and be carried home (NA NA, NA
With this incredibly short album, the Descendents were able to pave a whole new road in punk music that allowed bands like NOFX and my beloved Blink-182 to exist. Although the debut albums of Bad Brains, Fear, Black Flag, and D.O.A. are generally considered to be some of the most important hardcore albums of the time in terms of how they defined hardcore punk, I would argue that Milo Goes to College is just as or more important as the Descendents not only perfected their brand of hardcore, but saw a future for punk beyond hardcore. The bands that took punk to new heights were suddenly singing their choruses and not caring about looking dangerous anymore. Bands were suddenly able to experiment without fear of being labelled sellouts or poseurs. Even Bad Religion, the greatest punk band of all time, if not the greatest band that has ever rocked this earth, adopted this more melodic and fun brand of hardcore and ran with it. Whether they were punk enough or not, the Descendents made an impact with Milo Goes to College that few artists have ever made on any genre. They went against everything that they were told they needed to be in order to be hardcore, and turned it into their masterpiece. Thanks to them, being a nerd can be just as punk as being a punk, which is why on the one patch-covered vest I do have, the entire back is taken up by a Descendents Everything Sucks patch. TOP 3 TRACKS: - Suburban Home - Hope - Jean Is Dead I would also highly recommend checking out the albums I Don’t Want to Grow Up and Everything Sucks, as well as checking out “Filmage” which is an upcoming documentary about the Descendents that looks absolutely fantastic.
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We Will Remember Them Will Cann Staff Writer Any time you walk past Acadia’s athletic complex, you walk past two granite pillars. If you have not noticed, the pillars are inscribed with names, 123 in total. They are the names of men and women - Acadia students and graduates - who lost their lives while fighting in World War I, World War II, and the Korean War. For our generation, to try and comprehend the feelings of by these men and women is almost impossible. We live in a world that has not seen war on a large scale in about 70 years. Many Acadia students decided that going overseas to fight was the right thing to do. They understood that there was a chance that they would never come home again. One-hundred and twenty-three never did. This year is the one-hundredth anniversary of the outbreak of World War I, and 11:00 AM on November 11 marked the 96th anniversary of the conclusion of the war. The last veteran of the war passed away in 2012, at the age of 110. When you consider just how long ago the war was, it becomes more and more difficult to understand the motivations of the soldiers who fought. At the time, war
was viewed as a glorious endeavor, and soldiers were eager to serve their country. At the outbreak of the war in the summer of 1914, many thought the war would be over by Christmas. Obviously, it was not. At Acadia, The Athenaeum would print soldier’s letters from the front, as well as obituaries and press releases from the war. In the February 1918 edition of The Ath: “Acadia has learned with regret that George B. Peck of the class of ’18, who won the military medal at Vimy Ridge, has given his life in sacrifice in this war. While trying to rescue a comrade at Passchendaele he was killed instantly by liquid fire. He was born at Hillsboro’ in 1896, and there he graduated from High School in 1912. In the fall of the same year he entered Acadia as a student in the Freshman class. He enlisted in the 219th Battalion in February 1915, and in October 1917 was killed. While a student at Acadia he was actively engaged in all the sports and won his athletic ‘A’ on the track. He was a boy of splendid ability and could always be depended on by all his fellow students to do his share in all college societies. Acadia and his many friends mourn his loss and are glad to have known him.”
Call for ideas: The Awesome Foundation needs you!
Colin McLeod, who was expected to graduate in 1917, won the Distinguished Conduct Medal for his actions at Passchendaele. According to Veterans Affairs Canada, the Distinguished Conduct Medal was (it is no longer awarded) the “second highest award for gallantry in action (after the Victoria Cross) for all army ranks below commissioned officers. From the Acadia Bulletin, February 1918: “Colin McLeod was a private on the 85th Nova Scotia Highland Battalion and was reported killed in action after the attack on Passchendaele Ridge on October 20, 1917. He received the Distinguished Conduct Medal for the following reason. ‘For conspicuous gallantry in action: On the night of the 14-15th of September, 1917 during a very heavy attack, No. 169032, Private Colin McLeod was one of a Lewis Gun Crew [machine gun crew] in an advanced detached post; the N.C.O. and the crew with the exception of Private McLeod were wounded and the gun put out of action by shell fire. Private McLeod, at great personal risk, rescued one man who was unable to help himself. At Company Headquarters Private McLeod reported the situation, got a new Lewis Gun and volunteered to take up a position further in advance of the one previously held. This he very successfully accomplished and held the position until relieved. Private McLeod was on duty continuously for thirty hours. He displayed exceptional coolness,
courage, initiative and tactical skill.’ Had he lived through the last engagement he would have received a commission.” From the Acadia Bulletin: “Once more Acadia has given her best for the common cause of humanity. Robert Clarence Borden entered College in the autumn of ’13 and had started his junior year when he responded to the call and joined the 219th Battalion of the Nova Scotia Highlanders, in which he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant. Later he joined the 85th, also Nova Scotia Highlanders and reverted to the rank of Private, leaving for England in October, 1916. In February he went to France, and was promoted to Corporal on the field. On October 30th, 1917, he was killed in action (at the battle of Passchendaele). All who knew ‘Bob’ will always hold the memory of a bright and jolly companion, an all-round college man, and a frank and steadfast friend.” These are just three examples of Acadia students who fought, and died in the war. In total, 61 Acadia students and graduates lost their lives in World War I. Two were women from Seminary. Forty-eight were men who left Acadia during their degrees. Twenty-two of the forty-eight were from the Horton Academy. In the words of Winston Churchill, “Never was so much owed by so many to so few.”
idea. You have nothing to lose right?
To submit your idea, go to http://awesomeannapolisvalley.com/. Time is running out to submit your idea, so hurry fast! It takes only a few minRiley MacKinnon utes to fill out the form, and who Arts Editor knows? You might be the lucky winThe Annapolis Valley is about to em- So far, countless ideas have been ner of $1,000. bark on something awesome. Wes- submitted, all very different from ley Booth, a recent Acadia grad and one another. In Nova Scotia, some November 27 will be Pitch Night this Wolfville native, started organizing of the ideas presented have been a month. To those that are chosen an Awesome Foundation chapter in play area for children at the Lunen- as finalists, you will have four minAugust of this year. The Awesome burg farmer’s market, a local knitting utes to pitch your idea to the board Foundation itself started in 2009 club, therapeutic horseback riding for of trustees, and any members of the in Boston. The idea is simple: each adults with disabilities, and lining a community who want to attend the month, a winning idea gets $1,000 street with tulips. The Annapolis event. The event will be head at 7pm cash to fund it, no strings attached. Valley chapter defines awesome with in Studio-Z, above the Al Whittle Each chapter has its own group of seven characteristics: memorable, Theatre on Main St. Anyone is weltrustees who finance the monthly random, or out of the norm, positive, come to attend this event. Come out cash prize. People can submit their unique, smile-worthy, awesome for and support your community! pitches online, which are collected more than just you, and worthy of the mid-month and narrowed down to a statement “Yes! That’s awesome!” If you have any other questions, you select few. From there, these finalists Think you fit the criteria? can contact the chapter at hello@aweare invited to present their idea to the someannapolisvalley.com, or visit trustees and community. The win- This is where you come in, Acadia the Facebook page at facebook.com/ ning idea walks away with $1,000. students. Do you have an idea in awesomeannapolisvalley. Rememmind, and need the finances to make ber: to submit your idea, go to http:// So what makes an idea awesome? it happen? Then please, submit your awesomeannapolisvalley.com/.
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Shellac - Dude Incredible Don Corkum Contributor Dude Incredible, Shellac’s first album in seven years, is finally here. Shellac is back, which means Steve Albini is back, with a vengeance. If you are not sure who Steve Albini is, shame on you. Allow me to enlighten you.
Sunday on the Rocks Riley MacKinnon Arts Editor It is very rare for me to see myself in every character in a movie, play, or show. This semester, the Acadia Theatre Company presents their fall production, Sunday on the Rocks. This production was an exception to most: I laughed, I cried, and I saw myself in every aspect of the play. Four characters grace the stage in this production: Elly, who is coming to terms with her newfound pregnancy; Jen, the carefree roommate who is struggling with what she really wants in life; Gayle, the understanding, confident roommate who is seeking for something; and Jessica, the moral figure of the house, whose confidence is waning. Four girls, all thirty years old, facing challenges that many of us do on a daily basis. What stood out most to me was the dialogue in this production. Quick whit, humour, and 90s pop culture references combined to create a fast paced, honest production. Underneath this dialogue lies reality; the themes in the play are so real to so many people, which I think is what really allows this production to shine. It begins in the morning on a beautiful Sunday morning. Elly begins her day with a drink of some scotch. She has just found out she is pregnant, and will be having an abortion. Her problem? No, not the abortion, but what her three roommates will think. Each roommate differs from one another in so many ways, but to-
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gether they are linked by the problem of making a decision in a not-so-easy world. Elly’s pregnancy just happens to be the spearhead of the discussions that are soon to come throughout the course of the nearly two-hour production. Themes of friendship, love, sex, marriage, life, and death all come into play. The production courses through these themes so effortlessly that you begin to see how connected everything in life really is. Everyone struggles with something, and no matter how different it may all seem, everyone is going through the same problem in the end: what do we want, where are we going, and how to we get there? Please, attend this production. Its genuine honesty, fast-paced dialogue, and real humour are sure to please anyone. The Acadia Theatre Company has done a fantastic job at speaking to many people at once, unifying them under one theme: life. Show times are November 13-15, and November 19-22, 7pm 2pm matinee November 22 Lower Denton Theatre Tickets are available for purchase at the Acadia Box Office, or at the door $15 regular price ; $10 students/seniors ; $7 for groups of 8 or more
First, he is a legendary producer, with essential albums like the Pixies’ Surfer Rosa and Nirvana’s In Utero under his belt. His production can also found on underrated classics like Pod by The Breeders and both Goat and Liar by The Jesus Lizard. People often talk about his drum sound, and rightfully so. It is huge. There is a reason Kurt Cobain specifically asked him to handle production on In Utero. He is a master of sound recording and engineering. Second, he has been the guitarist, vocalist, and bandleader of several important bands, specifically legendary 80’s noise rockers Big Black (whose essential Songs About Fucking was produced by Albini). Big Black were one of the central bands in the American “pigfuck” scene of the 1980’s, a collection of abrasive noise rock bands which included the likes of Sonic Youth, the Butthole Surfers, and Scratch Acid.
is evident upon listening to Dude Incredible. Now that all the introductions to the band and Albini’s legacy are done, lets start digging into the record. First, a simple observation: it is 32 minutes long. Since the advent of the CD, too many bands have fallen into the trap of feeling like they need to fill all 70-or-so minutes. Shellac keeps it short and to the point. This also works to their advantage: Dude Incredible comes off as a lean, direct statement. Another obvious observation is that three of the tracks make reference to surveyors in title alone. The concept of surveyors is one of the major lyrical themes that run through the album. The track “Surveyor” makes reference to the founding fathers, a few of which were surveyors. According to Albini, a surveyor was someone who physically measured the dimensions of their property, for the purpose of map making. In reference to the founding fathers, this obviously involves measuring the dimensions of the young United States, the humble beginnings of western expansion that continues to this day. Meanwhile, “All The Surveyors” also makes mention of the founding fathers, but also explores one of the other meanings of surveyor, which is simply someone who utilizes surveillance. This recalls 1984-esque themes of privacy, especially in the context of our modern world, where privacy is more rare than ever.
Between the successes of Big Black, his unique production style, and his acerbic wit, Albini has become a central figure in indie rock, and one of its most colorful characters. While Albini has focused his attention on production since Big Black’s demise, since 1992 he has also occupied the position of guitarist, vocalist, bandleader, and producer of Shellac. Since we are on the topic of lyrics, the lyrics on Dude Incredible are acShellac, which also includes bassist tually quite diverse beyond the conBob Weston and drummer extraordi- cept of surveyors. The lyrics range naire Todd Trainer, recalls Big Black’s from painfully direct like on the huviolent mixture of noise rock, post- morous “You Came In Me”, which hardcore, and misanthropic humor, is about exactly what you think it is but also mixes in elements of math about, to the oblique spoken word rock to create an original but potent poetry of “Compliant”. From what I beast of a sound. Since their debut, can tell, “Compliant” is about some1994’s At Action Park, Shellac has re- one suffering from OCD, as its ableased consistently good material. stract lyrics make frequent references to ritualistic activities (“close lights Because production is Steve’s day / compliant / car lock / compliant / job, Shellac does not get the opportu- count steps / compliant”). Two of the nity to record very often. Thus, Dude tracks (“The People’s Microphone” Incredible is only Shellac’s fifth stu- and “Mayor Surveyor”) do not even dio album in twenty years. However, have lyrics, which is a fairly common this has worked to their advantage, thing for a band like Shellac who does as they have afforded themselves not necessarily focus all of their effort time to carefully craft each record on vocals. The only other major lyrislowly over a number of years. This Continued on pg 7
ath atharts Continued from pg 8 cal theme on Dude Incredible is the concept of group dynamics presented on the title track and “Riding Bikes”. What about the music? Well, it is exactly what one might expect from Shellac. We get Albini’s sardonic half-spoken snarl over noisy but muscular instrumentals. Albini’s voice goes from a quiet spoken word to a shout, which is awfully dynamic for a guy who cannot really sing in the traditional sense. The really interesting parts of Shellac’s music are when certain instruments utilize odd time signatures so that the instruments feel like they are weaving in and out of each other. This creates an interesting poly-rhythmic effect that is both hypnotic and a bit disorienting. Give “Mayor/Surveyor” a listen to see what I mean by this. This sort of effect is all over the album, and is utilized to a large extent in songs like the title track and “Compliant”. This is a hallmark of the math rock sound that Shellac helped to define in the early 90’s along with the likes of Slint and Drive Like Jehu. Dude Incredible shows a band that is still producing high quality albums 20 years into its career. While the material here might not be as strong as something like At Action Park, it is still an excellent representation of Albini’s style of music, and certainly adds to his ever-growing legacy in the indie community. Picks: “Dude Incredible,” “Riding Bikes”. But really, the album should be experienced as a whole. And for that matter, you should hear At Action Park, both Atomizer and Songs About Fucking by Big Black, and pretty much any other album I mentioned here.
Brew Review: Tis the season of pumpkin-flavoured beer Jonathan Smith Contributor
Garrison Double Jack Imperial Pumpkin Ale Serving Type: Bottle, 650ml Fall has arrived, and with it, pumpkin-flavored everything. I am pretty alright with this. Pumpkin spice is a beautiful thing, and beer is a beautiful thing. It is only natural to want to see two things I love make a sick, twisted
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DEVOUR! Shea Seale Contributor
Devour! The Food Film Fest (formerly the Slow Food Film Fest) was founded by Slow Food Nova Scotia in 2009. Founder Michael Howell and organizer Lia Rinaldo took their passion of local food and film culture and turned Devour! into an internationally recognized festival. This festival brings awareness and knowledge towards improving local and international food systems with engaging international documentaries, wine tours, chef demos, tastings and pop-ups, special dinners, and industry sessions. Surrounded by historic venues, wineries, theatres, and agriculture, Wolfville, Nova Scotia displays the beauty of the Annapolis Valley, creating the perfect backdrop for the festival. Devour! educates and entertains its audience while celebrating cinema, food and wine culture. The festival opened with style featuring sixteen of Nova Scotia’s finest chefs celebrating Acadian and Cajun cuisine. Held in the Fountain Commons at the university, this event brought in foodies, media, and chefs from around the world. Live music, drinks, celebrity appearances and of course food started the festivities on a high note and set the tone for the rest of the week. Emmy-award winning television host Anthony Bourdain shared with everyone his favourite food film “Eat Drink Man Woman” and curated the Opening Gala for the night. He is just as funny, passionate, and shocking in person as he appears on television. Films are available for $12 and under, giving anyone from children and students to seniors the chance to experience the festival even on a budget. On
Friday night, I was lucky enough to see two films and meet both the directors and producers of these films. “Steak (R)evolution” is a French film exploring the many methods farmers, breeders, butchers, and restaurant owners around the world use to create the perfect steak. Focusing on the challenges meat producers face trying to educate the public on what a healthy and delicious piece of meat should look like and the hardships smaller farm owners endure to raise and care for their animals, this film gives insight into meat revolution and what steps need to be taken to ensure a better and healthier world. Director Franck Bibiere and his wife Verane Fredinani, who wrote and produced the film, stopped by for a Q&A after the screening. The audience jumped at the chance to ask about their global journey. Later that night, the American film “Food Chains” was shown and Berry Estabrook, author of many award-winning books such as “Tomatoland,” was available for the Q&A portion after the film. “Food Chains” exposed the heart-breaking reality of the poverty the people who pick tomatoes from farms in Florida face. Working more than full-time hours, immigrant workers are subjected to abuse, chemical exposure, and incredibly low pay. Throughout the film, the workers’ conditions are constantly compared to slavery because of the utter lack of care for their well-being. They are treated as less than humans and they are aware of this, but have no power to do anything as they are stuck in the cycle of poverty. “Food Chains” was an emotional and moving film that got the audience to think about how the supermarkets pricing of food affect the people lowest on the food chain. Having the chance to ask questions and pick the minds of the people who created such movies adds to the intimate and exciting experiences people can take away from Devour!.
love child. I also freely admit that I meg, discreetly show their faces here will drink anything with ‘Imperial’ in as well. I will admit the beer is a bit stronger in taste than your average its name. everyday vegetable infused alcoholic The beer pours with absolutely no beverage, but it gets the job done if head, and takes on a deep reddish- you are looking to drink a pumpkin amber hue. Most of what I get off the and you don’t want to drive to McDonscent is pumpkin pie, but the smell is ald’s for a PSL. fairly weak. Kind of like a pumpkin that you know has been left out too The aftertaste is where a pumpkin long after Halloween, but you still beer really shines, since everything kinda like it because you did carve it before this point was kinda lackluster. It hits you with a melange of pumpyourself, after all. kin, clove, allspice, cinnamon, and The mouthfeel is fairly smooth, with nutmeg, for a taste purely representaa strong hint of carbonation. Nothing tive of fall. It lasts in your mouth for to see here, folks. The extra alcohol as long as you want it to, making the is surprisingly non-present, which is whole bottle a continuous experience. not something I would expect out of a The quintessential pumpkin spice flaballs-to-the-wall 8% beer. The pump- vor sets up camp at the back of your kin spices, such as cinnamon and nut- tongue and refuses to leave, but your
The Anvil Pub hosted the Devour! Cocktail Pop-up Party late Friday night with special Devour! inspired cocktail samples included with admission. As the special dinners wound down, The Vil wound up. Mixologists Jeffrey Van Horne and Matt Jones held down the bar creating four whiskey based cocktails. The passion and energy flowed from the bartenders to the crowd as people danced and soaked up the booze with items from Ace Burger Co., who took over the kitchen for the night. A surprisingly yummy event to note was the “Rabbit Nose-to-Tail” workshop held by chef Mark Gray of Brooklyn Warehouse. Starting with a skinned whole rabbit, in just over an hour Mark gave the class tips and tricks on how to butcher, prepare, and cook every item of the body. Throughout the process he answered questions and encouraged everyone to try every item produced. The kidneys and liver were especially flavourful and I finally became a liver-lover. From pate to spring rolls to stuffed legs, Mark showed us how to create a delicious meal or snack without wasting anything. It is clear to see the talent and passion mark has as he passed on his knowledge to his eager audience. At the end of every film, tasting, workshop or event, there was a flutter in the air. Everyone was full of excitement and had smiles on their faces. Devour! continues to attract that niche crowd of foodies, but has also started to bring in those who are just curious about food, culture, and the world and who are yearning to be educated and inspired. Having a festival full of truly passionate people sharing their experiences and knowledge with others is exactly what is needed everywhere in the world in order to better our communities and ourselves.
tongue will be oddly fine with that. In the spirit of the season, I had been drinking almost exclusively pumpkin beer for the past two weeks when I wrote this review. In my personal opinion, this is one of the best ones. I will admit that pumpkin beer is in no way my favorite type of beer, but it is too festive to resist. Most aspects of it are fairly underwhelming, but its seasonal nature is part of the appeal, like the uncle that only visits at Christmas (to all readers that notice I already used that simile, I deeply apologize but I refuse to care). Summary: The tastiest way to combine pumpkins, cinnamon, and drinking that doe not involve a carving knife.
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ath athopinions
Local Wine is the Best Wine Wolfville Wino Let me start off by stating that this article on wine is by no means going to be up tight and snobby. I want to make wine accessible to all! So, let’s start from the beginning. Not the beginning of wine in Nova Scotia (at least not in this article) but the beginning of my own love affair with vino. I hate to admit this, but even I once was the undergrad student who would purchase the $10-12 bottle of wine (Arbor Mist/Boone’s/Gallo Rose- you all do it, trust me, I know) and that was my drink of choice for the evening festivities. I always found a way to defend my purchase: I was a poor and starving student, it was cheap, it tasted good, and it was simple! Yet the amount of sugar in those bottles always gave me a terrible hangover. Back when I was 19, I could easily get over that hangover, and kill off all those added calories. Not today. No sir. Add a few years to my body, and my ‘experience’ in drinking, and I slowly developed a better palate for wine, expanding my horizons onto the $15 bottles. I still went for sweet, but not so artificially sweet (less calories, less hangover!). Hey, I had a job - I could afford it now! Add a few more years and I slowly learned about cooking and eating with wine! Oh how my choices have become further refined by food pairings. And here we are today, where my love affair with wine has only grown and intensified. Today, many years later, after vineyard tours through the Okanagan Valley, Niagara-on-the-falls, Napa and Sonoma Valley, I found myself quitting my full time career to go back to school. How and where was I to choose? Part of the reason I chose to come to Acadia to complete my graduate degree was about location. At first, I chose based on proximity to the ocean, the Maritime Provinces, and the local food and wine industry (oh – and I cannot forget the funding package!). I applied only to grad schools in Canada that were ranked in the top 3 highest ‘fruit’ bearing regions (Okanagan Valley, BC; Niagara, ON, and Annapolis Valley, NS). I believed that I needed to move from the frozen tundra I called home to a place that was healthier, especially considering the kind of degree I was throwing myself into! Clearly I had my priorities in check. If I was going to suffer through countless books by theorists such as Marx, Foucault, Derrida, and many other old bearded men, then I needed to make sure I was taking care of myself, and if I am really being honest, I needed a place that had great wine. (Wine really is the secret to writing a good thesis. Ask any grad student!) Which now brings me to today, where I have just completed a six-month summer job working at one of the local wineries (which I will not name, so not to show any bias). I learned a lot about wine, a lot about what people like, what people do not like, and in the end, what mat-
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ters – everyone has different palates, and none of them are wrong. The biggest lesson I learned however was the importance of supporting local businesses. With the sub text of carpe diem, I tell myself that I have a duty as a recently emigrated young adult to Nova Scotia that I must try and experience all it has to offer! While this little adventure of mine has been a truly enjoyable experience (living in Wolfville) I have to admit that that all comes from the ease of eating and drinking locally. As a born and bred Canadian from the very frozen North, being able to visit the farms that grow my food and purchase my food from the local farm markets is a truly enriching experience, one that I never had the opportunity to do while I was growing up. Better yet, I have never ever thought about visiting the farmer who makes my booze! As luck would have it they tend to also give you free tastings! Who does this? Nova Scotia does! This is what makes Nova Scotia, I think one of the most under rated provinces in Canada. Nova Scotia Wine is one of their top ten selling features for tourists! I met way more tourists than I did locals at the winery. Why are more students not checking these out? More neighbours? I ask myself why more and more residents; including students are not drinking local wine. So it is my goal, to make all of you put down that glass of California Barefoot Moscato (yes - I know you are drinking it) and pick up a bottle of beautiful liquid that has been grown and made within 10 minutes of our very own little campus. So – what do you need to know about Nova Scotia wine? It would be criminal for me not to explain a few wine basics: wines are often named after the grape they are made out of. They can sometimes be named after a region that they were grown in as well. Or the method in which the wine was made. Or they can be named after whatever the winemaker fancies. A few key grape varieties to get to know: Whites: L’Acadia Blanc; Seyval Blanc; New York Muscat; Muscat; Geisenheim; Ortega; Vidal Blanc; Chardonnay; Riesling Reds: Marechal Foch; Baco Noir; Leon Millot; Lucie Kuhlman; Castel; Marquette; Pinot Noir; Triomphe d’Alsace Interesting facts: All grapes start out white, and turn red (if they are a red variety) when they begin to ripen. However, the juice out of most grapes tends to be white. Also, red wine, and even Roses come from steeping the skins in the juice (like tea). A true Rose would be only juice from a red grape, soaked on the
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skins for a short period of time, until the wine maker believes it is pretty and tasty enough to take the skins out. A Blush variety is often a blend of both white and red grapes (but we tend to also call these Roses). Red wine is soaked on the skins for much, much longer. Also, in wine lingo – dry = not sweet, off-dry = sweet. Tannins = harsh bite at the end of a red wine (comes from the skins and seeds of the grapes). Tannins are also the major culprit for wine triggered migraines. (Not the ones that happen the next day. These guys hit you immediately). Flavours such as strawberry, cherry, lemon, lime, crisp, clean, rocky, minerals, smoky, barnyardy, all come from the grape and the kind of soil it was grown in. Being able to taste these flavours means you can taste the ‘terroir’ (fancy schmancy French wine term which means ‘sense of place’ not just soil). Essentially, you can taste Nova Scotia. And let me tell you, she tastes pretty damn good. Smoky, woody flavours are enhanced by barrel aged wine (think aged in Oak Chardonnays or Red wines).
Distance (Closest to Farthest): Wolfville Region *ten mins from campus Gaspereau Vineyards (now owned and operated by Jost Vineyards) Tons of selection – love Lucie Kuhlman (smoky and easy to drink) and their Rose (with a PB&J). They also won the top score for their Tidal Bay this year (it is pretty delish!). In my dreams, I am always drinking their Frizzante. It is called Selkie. And it is silky. Bubbly. Delicious.
L’Acadie Vineyards The ONLY certified organic vineyard and winery in Nova Scotia. They keep it simple – a small selection of delicious wines. BEST L’Acadie Blanc in Nove Scotia – it is called the Estate L’Acadie. Tastes like honey, lychee, passion fruit, mineral water, and not sweet at all, but clean and crisp. Make sure it is cold – and this is the mussel steaming wine! Just a simple refreshing cold white wine. My favourite. Also love their juicy dry Rose (blend of L’Acadie and Foch), and their Passito Now – what is so important to know – it is like a wine made from raisins and about Nova Scotia wine? Well number currants! These guys also make my faone, it is pretty freaking tasty. Number vourite bubbly – Mousseux. OMG. two, it is pretty affordable ($11-$27 a bottle). Number three: it is literally grown in Also of note – as to their instructions, your backyard. Of all the grapes I men- I have experimented with only drinktioned above, only one variety is TRUE ing their organic wine – no headache or to Nova Scotia. Which one you ask? The hangover the next day. Apparently due L’Acadie Blanc of course – clearly named to low sulphites and preservatives and after the region here. It is a white hybrid zero added sugar, organic wine is the grape that does not grow anywhere else way to go to not feel so sick the next day! in the world. Statistically, 98% of the Sign me up! worlds’ L’Acadie Blanc comes from Nova Scotia. 2% is grown experimentally in Domaine de Grande Pre Vineyards Vermont. So – for those of you going When it comes to history in Nova Scotia, home for Christmas, think about tak- these guys are not to be missed. Great ing some delicious wine with you, and atmosphere, great restaurant (one of the showing off these beautiful grapes. The World’s top 20 Vineyard Restaurants!). L’Acadie Blanc is crisp and clean, easy Love their Riesling ( just won a Governor to drink (almost like water-it is danger- Generals’ Award) and their Castel (red). ous) and amazing to cook with. I steam mussels in it (a little for me, and a little Luckett Vineyards for them!). If you have not yet been up to Lucketts, shame on you. You cannot get a better There is also one other important kind of view of the Valley! Pete holds some pretwine that you can only get in Nova Sco- ty wicked parties up there, and always tia. That is our Tidal Bay variety. This is a has awesome all you can eat food. The blended wine of anywhere from three to wines are also fantastic – and there are eight different grapes. All must be grown SO MANY! I have not yet tried them all, in Nova Scotia – this is called an Appel- but to name a few beloveds– Rosetta and lation wine. These wines go through a Ortega are pretty awesome. Luckett happretty heavy judgement process to be pens to have my favourite Tidal Bay, and declared a Nova Scotia Tidal Bay wine – my favourite red – the Triumphe (I am and to date we have ten different Tidal drooling just thinking about it). They are Bay varieties in the province. Tidal Bays both to die for – and certainly must tries. almost always have added sugar, which makes them a little less dry than the Benjamin Bridge L’Acadie Blanc, but these all tend to vary As a student, I cannot afford to do a tastdepending on the winery, and the blend. ing here. They are appointment only. I As you will have noticed, I have major- have however tried their Nova 7 – most ly focused on white wine. Nova Scotia of you probably have too. Best marketed is well known for white wine because wine. Artificially carbonated - soda style of our climate. We are COLD! Which wine. ‘Nuff said. means we do whites very well. Our reds (On my to do list: try more BB wine). do not have a super long growing season like they do in California, so they tend be Port Williams/Blomidon Region *15-20 a little light (which I happen to REALLY mins away like!). Now, onto the good stuff - let’s get into my recommendations! Planter’s Ridge
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ath athopinions Continued from Pg 8 Brand new winery, just opened this summer. I have tasted everything so far, and have not yet been blown away by anything. BUT, they have the most gorgeous winery and view – it is definitely a must visit. Go for the view. Try the wine if you want to. Blomidon Estates Winery Awesome winery! They are not organic, but they are a no spray winery! Which means a lot! No pesticides! I heart their Baco Noir. I repeat: I heart their Baco Noir. And also the Seyval Blanc. Oh My Gosh – these are some of my favourites! Cannot be beat. Best Seyval in the province, best Baco in the province. Also – they do a gorgeous traditional bubbly – it is called Cremant. You must also try it.
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Getting More Comfortable with Criticism:
Working together as a community Dan Aurell Contributor As a student, I want to make a few suggestions about how we as the Acadia community should receive the recent criticism from town residents. Most importantly, we should pick up where residents have left off, and continue discussing the student culture that we collectively create.
Deep Roots Festival are also great connectors. Then there are the numerous campus-hosted groups that community members participate in, including the Acadia Chorus, sports teams, the language societies, and the various speaker series.
between the student body and the town. And yes, sigh… some articles in the Register have added to this confrontational tone. When we read an article like “Wolfville parties keep RCMP busy over homecoming” (20 Oct 2014) that consists of nothing but entries from the local police log, we need to pause for a moment and realize that this is not representative of the town’s opinion of the students. Most townspeople have a nuanced understanding of the student-town dynamic, and we need to be careful not to attribute a simplistic understanding to “the other side”.
The great things about being a stu- Some townspeople are just so wel- When we encounter articles like it, Windsor Region *½ hour away coming to students and young peo- we also need to be careful not to (These two are all stars that are totally un- dent in Wolfville ple, even though we often come swing the pendulum too far the othder-rated, absolutely worth the drive) Avondale Sky Winery This is the only winery I have been to where I loved absolutely every single wine I tasted – no tasting fee either! Abso-freaking-lutely worth the drive out. It is in a tiny little old church, and they have an awesome staff. Only a few of their wines can be purchased in the NSLC so it is truly a must visit. Loved their whites – Tennyscape, Bliss, Drops of Amber, Blanc de Noir, Burlington, and for their red – the Montavista is a must try! Sainte Famille Winery Humongous selection, and the BEST prices! Their maple dessert wine is so good it is not fair, they make the best blueberry wine I have ever tasted, and for the Holiday season, their mulled wine is awesome. They had so many to choose from, I need to go back and taste more! Others of note: Red Barn/Muwin Estates Winery out of New Ross, NS *½ hour away Personally not worth a visit – just buy at your local NSLC (Cranberry wine rocks!)
As a student here, there are a lot of perks in terms of quality of life. Just a few steps outside our doors and we are ready to go for a nice walk, run or bike ride. And it takes what, ten minutes to walk across downtown, how is that compared to a big-city commute? Tubing the Gaspereau River, and picking apples in the orchards, we get to enjoy the surrounding area as well.
and go so quickly. I was talking to a friend of mine, an Acadia alumna who lives on Main Street and she said, “As they pass by my apartment, I often think ‘have fun, be safe, take care of each other.’ I like to imagine that they love being students - I want to imagine that they’re loving the town.” But she wonders if there has been a different, less respectful tone to the drunkenness this year.
Wolfville’s small size is one of the distinctive things about living here: downtown you see many of the same people day after day. Another distinctive thing is how large the university population is compared to the resident population, which means that whatever happens on the university end has major effects on Wolfville life. Many of our professors live in the town or nearby rather than across the city as they likely would in a larger place. As well, many of the townspeople are Acadia alumni. It is an amazingly diverse and progressive town. All of this lays many bridges for dialogue between different groups of people.
A few thoughts about the tone of the ongoing discussion
Lunenburg County Winery – kooky little place that truly does its own thing. I think they have almost 30 different varieties – some fruit wines, and many grape wines. *1 hour away The small-town university experi-
ence is different for each of us, and
I have not made it out to these wineries, so it changes each year we spend here. they are only missing because I cannot talk It changes as our circle of friends about them yet:
grows, when we find and lose love, when we move off-campus, if we Petite Riviere Vineyards (LaHave River Valley *1.5 hours from stay in the summer for work or research, when we suffer loss and failWolfville) ure, and when we learn from each Digby Region: other. What we can strive for is to Annapolis Highland Vineyards grow from these experiences. Bear River Vineyards Jost – around 1.5 – 2 hours from Wolfville There are a few key venues and Near Tatamagouche on the Northumberland events that bring students and townsStrait
people together. The Farmers’ Market is probably the most important such off-campus venue, and events like the Valley Harvest Marathon and
Reports of young people gathering and keeping their neighbours up are certainly nothing new. What worries me more is hearing about disrespectful and threatening behaviour towards townspeople who go out and ask for a decent night’s sleep. It seems that the serious issue that was brought to light at the residents’ meeting on October 20th is that some townspeople have been made to feel unsafe on their own streets and in their homes. Many students have been good about taking the criticism of the student body calmly, but I admit that I felt somewhat attacked, until it was explained to me that things like damage to property and a threat uttered about one family’s children, are a much more real attack than the threat to my sense of pride as a student. I think we ought to be concerned about ideas like “this is Acadialand” because it indicates a very opposing view of the relationship between town and university. Did you see the comment on one of the Register’s articles, “If you don’t like living in a party town, LEAVE! Without Acadia Wolfville would be NOTHING!” The risk looms of this kind of thinking driving wedges of resentment
er way. In his “Letter to the King’s County Advertiser” last November, I think the previous ASU president Matt Rios did just that. He noted that such articles make generalizations about Acadia students and “invalidate all the work that our students do to contribute to this wonderful community.” But his closing remark was quite opposing: “we will not allow comments of this nature to go unchallenged.” Let’s try not to accept the confrontational tone set by some of the newspaper articles. We do not need to knock over every straw man that the newspapers set up for us, nor do we need to challenge every criticism that comes our way. Instead it would be good if we evaluate the criticism and use this as a chance to reflect on student culture. An important reason for the student body to take ownership of the issue of disrespectful party culture is that there are harms done to students, as well as putting us at odds with the town. The issues around excessive drinking are present in town and in broader society too, of course. When we realize that there are crosscutting issues that affect both townspeople and students negatively, I hope that will give us the impetus to talk more openly about it instead of closing ranks when confronted. Furthermore, when we note that binge drinking and attitudes of disrespect for the next person contribute to the problem of sexual violence - a problem that affects university-age women more than any other age group, then hopefully we will see more reason to address it. Not only community members, but also students, feel, and are less safe than they ought to be in their hometown. The efforts that are ongoing to confront social isContinued on Pg 10
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ath athcreative Continued from Pg 9 sues together with townspeople develop points of shared purpose. For example, it was excellent to see some townspeople at the recent Take Back the Night walk. I was talking to Dr. Geoffrey Whitehall about how we should respond to criticism as a student body, and he had the following suggestion: “The real reason to deal with the issue at a cultural level is that otherwise responsibility can be evaded and passed off as the behaviour of a few bad apples.” It seems that you can address things as behaviours by external means (policing, requirements on landlords, etc.). Addressing them at a cultural level though, is difficult to force from the outside. There is at least something in common between the topics of sexual assault, binge drinking, and disrespectful behaviour. This is that to change them on a social level, we need to change our collective tendency to downplay the prevalence and consequences of these issues. According to many, Acadia is in a period of transition. Dr. Whitehall adds, “a decision has to be made: is Acadia to be organized around academic excellence, or is it to be organized around giving students ‘lifestyle’ experiences? The more it is oriented toward academic excellence, the more meaningful dialogue and new forms of collaboration can emerge. The extracurricular experience-based model leads to an adversarial debate rooted in identity politics (us vs. them). The question is: what is the foundation of our Acadia community?” I am not going to attempt to answer the question, but it will be necessary to consider going forward.
Dear Trevor and the Heart, I really can’t say more about my job, All I can tell you, is that I am in the head of a politic named rob And I can only tell you that since I know you won’t figure it out There really is no deal that can be worked about I really cannot come back to you I am past the point of no return But many regrets are in my mind
When I spoke to Suzanne Gray of the ASU, she agreed that the best way forward is through continuing these conversations, in formal locations like the Town and Gown Committee, in person with others, and in public forums like the town and student newspapers. I would love to hear more from students on this. That conversation is something I can “Stand Up and Cheer” for.
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Dear Mind, Again, me and Trevor got together, We figured it was now or never This problem of ours is unresolved, You’re coming back, no choice involved, We promise to love you and treat your plight And we’ll definitely listen if we know you’re right And this Rob doesn’t need you anyway So how bout coming back today? All this is just an attempt to flatter Not that whether you agree will really matter We have a plan to which we commit No mercy now, we will not quit, For in this void of senseless thought,
From the bridges that I burned We happened upon an infallible plot, I really can’t come back We found what can stimulate you a little For that I’m very sorry But still I only bid you a sweet goodbye, with no compensation And I only urge you to feel the sweet sensation Of having the peace of mind that comes from the absence of thought But anyway I have to go Don’t miss me too much though
So, in short, while these are not “student issues” in the sense of being a problem of students, they are “issues for the students” in that they harm us. So not only should we lower our student pride, but it would be good for our community to proactively engage with the issues.
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Love, well I know you can’t do anything but, Your mind
It comes in the form of a riddle Now tell us, and don’t assume a definition of sound, Can anyone hear a tree fall if no one’s around? Some food for thought on which to chew, We hope soon we’ll be saying hello to you For if you stay away much longer, The riddles we spew will get much stronger Now just one more to make you pry We tell you, everything we say is a lie, Is the statement true or false? We’re sure that that one made you cry And if you think we’re done with this waltz, You’re wrong, this road leads nowhere good for you So do us a favor and come back to us two Please forgive, and welcome the beginning of our new start, Sincerely, Trevor and the Heart.
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For Whom the Bellhop Toils Billy Van Ekris Contributor
Universities are largely places for opening doors. (They are not the only organizations that do so, of course, but considering that the Ath is Acadia University’s student newspaper, I might as well pander to an audience that concerns itself with academia.) If one successfully achieves membership at such an institution, pays the subscription, attentively frequents the appropriate labs/lectures, and can accurately record and regurgitate the minutes of these meetings, a world of opportunity reveals itself. These opportunities are partly what I refer to when writing about doors. From the foyer of high school graduation (or other such qualifications) there are innumerable doorways of potential for the future, and universities provide keys to unlock some of these doors – the ones for further study, supposedly better jobs, and so on. Call me cynical, but that is how universities are marketed, right? I trust this concept is not groundbreaking for anyone currently or previously enrolled at a university. Still, one must not (1) forget those who – for whatever reason – do not have access to this vestibule of undergraduate study, or (2) be so narrow to think that degrees are the only types of keys available. Knowledge/know-how, connections/networking, as well as good skills and habits are positive benefits of time mindfully spent anywhere. I think the real key is mindfulness, which helps to determine which doors are worth passing through, and how to go about doing so. Call it a skeleton key – take it wherever you go, take care of it. Most people, I imagine, choose their own metaphorical doors to the best of their ability, so it blows me away to see a lack of understanding regarding real doors around campus (and Wolfville, in general). As there has been a passionate response from anyone to whom I have mentioned “door etiquette”, I know I am not alone on this issue. Frustration seems to arise when addressing how long a door is held open by/for a stranger, or if an acquaintance makes no perceived effort to extend the courtesy – especially if a change in walking pace results. It is also uncomfortable to yank in vain on the handle of a door that is locked, and pull one’s own body closer toward the offending fixture in simultaneous shock and shame, as I have seen plenty of times. (I am looking at you, meal-hall.) Please do not get me wrong; I am not
immune to this discomfort. In fact, I am sure that I over-analyse door-holding culture – as I have come to call it – because of the tension that I feel surrounding it. What is the appropriate amount of analysis for these interactions, anyhow? Maybe you never think twice about walking through a door, and that aspect of your daily routine is blissfully worry-free. If that is the case (which I doubt), there is a jealous part of me that wishes to pass on a glimpse of the anxiousness that some others might feel, with both the benefits and drawbacks that accompany such concerns. Door unlocking around campus is not completely consistent, but the wheelchair-accessible ones will open during the hours of operation for their respective buildings, out of obvious necessity. I use these doors mostly, to avoid the embarrassing jolt and rattle of a deadbolt. Furthermore, I press the button to keep them open if I notice anyone else approaching the doorway, leaving our respective paces unaltered. It would not surprise me to know that others have witnessed and dismissed this behaviour as my being lazy, but is it not the most logical way to avoid awkwardness? Maybe I have used an inappropriate term for these doors, now that I think of it – they are not simply there for people using wheelchairs, but what are they called? – and for that matter, maybe I am being lazy by using them to insecurely avoid ambiguous interactions! ...But now I have put the effort into publicly complaining about it, so I cannot be too lazy. And I am sure readers that know me by name and will end up encountering me at a doorway could take advantage of this insecurity, so if anything I have just invited uncomfortable interactions. See, I am generally a polite individual, though people around here seem to expect politeness in the form of door-holding, do they not? I do not want to offend anyone by assuming they need help getting into a building... nor do I want to act purely based on the expectations of those around me! Also, it seems that the tradition of holding doors for others rooted in social inequality. I do not want to perpetuate that sort of arrogant gallantry! (Call it: “arrogallantry”) Does not everyone assume that they will need to open a door if they want to enter or leave a building? This must be the case, yet I have heard more than one annoyed and sarcastic “you’re welcome” after my having not thanked a stranger for doing this insignificant favour for me that I neither asked of, nor needed from them! I
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certainly do not want a social devaluation of sincere gratitude to result from a culture that throws around the term “thank you” haphazardly or to satisfy the ego of a stranger that does favours primarily for undeserved appreciation!
rage I have just spouted seems equally as foreign to some of you.
...which makes me think about traffic, memories of hearing “pick a lane!” being shouted, and how I find driving to come naturally, automatically – ever since I learned how to drive (an automatic, of course). As such I am a patient driver, despite what my previous cynicism and ranting might lead you to believe. I have never understood the road rage of the taxi drivers, family members, or friends who have driven me at various times in my life, though I can imagine this door
Call me a cab, to take me and my baggage away, check me and this less-thana”door”able anxiousness in at some nice hotel, where the staff are polite and take care of everything – it is too difficult to navigate life’s doorways with cumbersome baggage, alone, is it not?
So call me a hypocrite, I guess. I should be more mindful of the words I use, the things I do, and how they reflect each other. Or I am a work in progress, moOh, I remember the appropriate word, mentarily driven crazy by things like now: automatic. The button-activated door-etiquette at a place of higher learndoors are automatic. ing (or the lack thereof).
Pick a lane, pick your nose, or pick a flower, and so on. Pick doors, but not locks.
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Moving Off Campus? Know Your Rights! Ryan Rioux Contributor As an Acadia student who has lived off campus for three of my four years, I have had my share of bad encounters with landlords. Do not get me wrong, I have had many good encounters too, and there are many landlords in Wolfville who are very accommodating and who respect the rights of their tenants. However, in the face of a landlord who is ignoring the rules and disrespecting the rights of student tenants, it can be very intimidating. Especially if you do not know what rights you have, and how they are enforced.
like to have the security deposit at the time of signing the lease. This seemed pretty reasonable to me, and in fact I was expecting it, so I asked how much so I would know what to withdraw before meeting up. He tells me he needs the regular security deposit, the first month’s rent, and the last month’s rent. I was pretty taken-aback. I had only given landlords in the past half a month’s rent value for security deposit, let alone two additional full months. In a hurry, and not wanting to give up the only decent apartment I had managed to find (not to mention not having that kind of money in my account!), I told him I could get the deposit, but I would need a bit more time to get him the rest. Also not to mention the idea of giving almost $2000 cash to a complete stranger seemed a bit imprudent to me.
My writing this article was prompted by a very negative encounter I had with a prospective landlord last summer. Of course, this person cannot be named, but I hope sharing the experience and what I learned from it will benefit the many students who We met, and before handing over the will decide to move off campus. deposit, I asked whether it was standard procedure to ask for more than Over the previous summer I was the deposit, as that was not my exworking full-time, and in my spare perience with past landlords. He imtime doing apartment searches for mediately became uncomfortable, the coming fall semester. It was get- and said, “Well, I can walk!” paused ting close to the beginning of class- for a moment and added, “…or you es, and I had not yet found a place, can walk”, which surprised me. This and so I was getting a little anxious should probably have been my cue and devoting more and more time to to walk out of the deal right there apartment searches. Then one day I and then, but I gave him the security found an ideal place – it looked great deposit. To add to my trouble, he from the photos, relatively close to had shown up with a twelve-month campus, and a decent price. rather than an eight-month lease as I had requested, as well as having I contacted the landlord, and we set slightly raised the rental price from up a time for me have a look at the what was advertised. Again feeling place. We met up, and I had a look at pressured to get an apartment, I did the place. The landlord seemed nice, not bother to raise the issue. and the place was a good size, clean, and well taken care of - everything I signed the lease and, as is required, was going smoothly. It seemed I had he provided me with a copy of the found the perfect apartment just in Residential Tenancies Act (RTA). time, so I let him know I would defi- When I got home, I decided to have nitely be interested in renting for an a look through the RTA he provided, eight-month term. A couple days still feeling a little uneasy about havlater, he called me back and let me ing signed the lease. At first glance, know that I was the perfect candi- the Act might seem intimidating; date, and we agreed to meet a week lots of clauses and sub-clauses, later to go over and sign the lease. filled with technical legal language. Although the language it is written Sounds ideal, right? in is meant to be clear and concise so as to avoid ambiguity, what each A week later I was ending my work of these rules and regulations exshift, about to leave to meet said presses is very straightforward and landlord about the lease. He calls me common-sensical. It spells out what to confirm, and adds that he would rights both tenant and landlord have
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when entering an agreement. What I came to find after a read of the Act, was that my feeling that what he was asking for in addition to the security deposit was too much, was right. The Act clearly spells out in Section 12 that:
Long story short, he returned my money to me, and released me from the terms of the lease. Justice! I went on to find a much nicer apartment, with a much nicer landlord, just in time for the fall semester. Although it was a huge ordeal going through it at the time, I am glad that (2) No landlord shall demand, accept I did, as I have learned quite a bit or receive from a tenant as a secu- about entering into contracts, and rity deposit a sum of money or other my rights as a tenant. value that is in excess of one half of the rent per month that is or would With all this said, I would like to be required to be paid for the resi- point out a few common issues I dential premises. have come into contact with over the years as a tenant in Nova ScoI also read about the penalties in- tia, which I hope will help any felvolved in the landlord violating this low students who are considering part of the act, which is pretty sub- the move off campus: stantial. If a landlord is convicted of violating any part of Section twelve Security Deposit: Your landlord can (the one I noted above included) is only request as a security deposit no liable to a fine of up to five thousand more than the value of one half of dollars. With this new knowledge, I the monthly rent. This being said, replied to his email requesting an- it’s still okay for them to ask for your other meeting to provide him with post-dated cheques at this point, the additional illegal amount he had and usually this is what happens. requested. Entry of Premises: Except in emerA couple days later, we met again gencies, the landlord cannot enter after I had finished work. I did not your apartment without your conbring the money, as I did not intend sent, unless: to pay it. He was not too happy about 1. You have given notice of leave for this. I tried to negotiate with him, the end of the tenancy, and the entry not only the deposit, but I requested is at a reasonable hour for the pura change to the eight-month term I pose of showing the apartment. had originally discussed with him. or He agreed to the change of term of 2. The entry is during daylight hours, the lease, but he stipulated new con- and the landlord has given written ditions along with it. I asked only notice of the time of entry 24-hours for a couple days to consider my op- in advance. tions, which he reluctantly agreed to. Notice to Quit: If you have signed a fixed-term lease, (e.g., September By the time I got home that evening, to May) or a year-to-year lease, you I found an email he had sent me im- are required to give at least three mediately after our meeting. It ba- months notice before the end of the sically said that my rental payments term of the lease. If you do not, “continued to be outstanding” (I had the lease automatically renews, and just signed the lease barely a week you will be legally bound to another before, and it was not even Septem- years lease! ber yet!) and that if he did not get - Rental Increase: Your landlord canthe additional cash he was request- not increase the rent for a twelveing by midnight, he would terminate month period following your lease the lease and keep the money I had agreement. Also, if your landlord already given him as a legal security discontinues a service, privilege, or deposit as compensation. accommodation, the value of that service etc. is considered a rental inI was livid. crease. So if you and your landlord signed the lease where they signed But I was very glad to have what he and agreed to pay for lawn care, or sent in writing, as (I came to find) to include a washing machine, and in doing so gave me proof of sev- they refuse to do it/provide it, it is eral more violations of the Act. I considered increasing the rent. immediately set to work on a reply, detailing all the violations he had Conditions of Premises: Your landcommitted and the various penalties lord is expected to keep your apartthat went along with them, as well ment in a good state of repair and as letting him know I would be filing fit for habitation, as is required by a hearing with the Tenancies Board. health and safety standards. This Continued on pg 13
ath athopinions Continued from pg 12 does not mean you can make a mess of the place and blame it on the landlord. Daily care is up to you. But if your furnace stops working, or the toilet constantly overflows, the landlord is expected to make the necessary repairs. Consequence of retaliatory action by landlord: If a situation has escalated, and a report is filed to the Director of the RTB, or Small Claims Court, and the landlord has taken retaliatory action against the tenant for attempting to secure their rights under the RTA, the Board and Courts will take this into account in the tenant’s favour. Basically, you are protected if your landlord tries to punish you for enforcing your own rights. These and many more are your rights, found in the Residential Tenancies Act. It is worth having a quick look through it to get an idea of your rights, even if it seems like a bit of an effort at first. If you have come into dispute or disagreement with your landlord, rather than immediately filing an application to the Director, you are expected to try to do your research and make every effort at a resolution between you and your landlord beforehand. If things cannot be resolved in person, I have a link below to the Residential Tenancies website, which details how and when to file an application. Also included below is the Contact Centre toll-free number, which you can call to reach a live agent through the business week who can answer any questions you have about your situation or parts of the Act. Residential Tenancies website: http://www.novascotia.ca/snsmr/access/land/residential-tenancies.asp Contact Centre number: 1-800-670-4357
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Performance Enhancing Drugs in Academia Suleiman Semalulu Contributor Performance enhancing drugs are substances used by athletes to improve their performances. This range of substances includes what many people commonly refer to as supplements such as protein, creatine, BCAAs, pre-workouts, etc. from brands such as Musclepharm, Whey, 1RM pre workout and more. More notorious uses of performance enhancing drugs includes substances like steroids or HGH. Some people would even argue that food and dieting by athletes to ensure they attain or maintain a daily intake of nutrients could be considered a performance enhancer. This is to illustrate that performance-enhancing drugs covers a broad range of substances. I myself use a combination of legal substances (protein, creatine, BCAAs, multi-vitamins, fish oils and ZMAs) with a combination of my diet as a means to increase my performance on the football field. It is also important to note that brands are not required to guarantee that the use of their product will not result in a positive drug test if an athlete is randomly selected. This means there is a risk associated with taking “legal” substances to increase performance because a particular ingredient could be considered an illegal substance. The use of performance enhancing-drugs is a known practice within sports. Whether it be by permitted or banned-substances, the motivations are arguably the same. In many cases, for athletes, the goal is to be the best player they can possibly be to maximize their individual success, as well as their teams. Ironically, this could create an extremely competitive environment amongst players on the same team who are competing for limited playing time. This also creates competitive tensions between athletes on different teams competing against each other. Assuming everyone at a particular level of a sport (CIS, NCAA, Professional, Provincial, National, Olympics, etc.) has met a minimum skill requirement that enables them to compete, and there is a limited amount of nonpermanent spots available, then this creates another dilemma for athletes attempting to retrieve a spot and hold on to it as long as they can. This could potentially influence them to use performance-enhancing drugs. In the case of permitted or banned substances, it seems that that reasoning for use can always be traced back to an athlete trying to improve or maintain their performance in some way, shape or form. If athletes find themselves in a situation where everyone is relatively at the same level of skill and there are only so many spots, then the solution becomes to find any form of advantage to make them stick out. There are those who are considered freaks
of nature, who naturally have an advantage. But then there are the rest of us who may be considered average or below average who may be more dependent on using substance to increase their performance. Assuming most or everyone is using legal substances to increase their performance, then they fall back to the same issue of trying to stick out, and some will resort to deviant behaviour such as using non-permitted substances (doping) to increase their performance. Although doping may be considered a deviant act, the intent itself by the athletes may not be to be deviant. The term performance enhancing drugs, and the reasons for its use can be applied to students at Universities. As students are currently in the midst of midterms, and with the end of the semester and exam period approaching, there is a lot of pressure on students with trying to balance studying for midterms, writing assignments, preparing for presentations, etc. There is also a limited amount of time to complete all these tasks while having to go to attend classes and labs where they will receive even more information to digest. A widely acknowledged drug, which stimulates concentration and is used by students to try to absorb more information in less time, is known as Adderall. Typically prescribed for people who are diagnosed with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) in order to help them with attention issues. Reports suggests there are students who use and sell Adderall to aid in accomplishing what could seem like so many tasks in so little time. The issue is, that while cognitive enhancers like Adderall could students, it is illegal for students to buy them without a prescription. So why take the risk? Just like athletes, who face may be faced with external pressures by coaches, other players, the desire to be the best, or trying to win a roster spot. Students, also face many external pressures that could range from teachers, parents, other students to grad school applications, or maintaining a certain grade point average in order to acquire scholarship or bursary money. Although there are athletes who do resort to doping, there are still athletes who do not resort to doping and are able to achieve high levels of performance, which match or exceed some athlete’s abilities that do dope. While there is a valid argument that safe and effective cognitive enhancers should be developed and allowed without prescriptions. The onus would fall on students to use them safely and responsibly.
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Bread, reinvented Laura Jeha Sports Editor Bread has long been called the “staff of life�, and for university students this rings true. Bread is cheap, tasty, fills you up, and offers some quality carbohydrate fuel to get you through exam season. A simple piece of bread may not sound like a substantial or satisfying meal, but when dressed correctly it can become gourmet. On days when you are too busy to cook and cannot bear the thought of, yet again, microwaving a KD cup for dinner, spring for one of these toast combos. They all contain four ingredients or less, and utilize items you likely already have in your kitchen. These recipes are easy enough that even the student with the poorest of culinary skills can whip them up. There is one for every day of the week! Egg + Avocado + Sriracha
Photo Credit: Anjuli Ripley
Tips on dealing with exam stress Tess Pooran Opinions Editor Exam time is stressful for everyone; long days, longer nights, endless readings and pages of illegible notes (when did my writing start to look like a five year olds?!?). It might seem like Winter Break will never come, but there is hope! Here are tips to survive exam season and hopefully reduce your stress for your remaining time at Acadia. 1. I cannot stress this enough: You need sleep. It may seem like a good idea to stay up all night before your 9am exam, but you will be more successful if you are well rested. According to the Sleep Foundation, not sleeping enough can lead to: higher likelihood of obesity, heart problems and diabetes, depression and other mental health issues as well as poor concentration and the inability to process and remember new information. Going to bed will do more for you than staying up all night and not even remember what you studied. 2. Proper nutrition: Eating every 3-4 hours is recommended by dieticians, and it is especially important when studying. Studying using more energy (aka calories) than most people think; your brain will use up to three times more energy when studying than when going about daily life. Foods like nuts, seeds, dark chocolate, oatmeal, apples and protein (think chickpeas, fish, legumes, tofu) are all great study foods. Making meals ahead of time, if you live off-campus, and freezing is a good idea if you would rather study/sleep than prepare a meal. 3. Take breaks: Staying at your books or computer screen for five hours nonstop will not improve your grade. Take time away from the computer screen (and your phone) and do some-
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thing you enjoy. Take a walk through the Woodland Trails or treat yourself to a latte or pop down to the cat shelter and pet some kitties. Self-care is vital for surviving exam season with your mental and physical health intact. 4. Practice positive thinking: Going into an exam with the mentality that you will be successful will help. It may seem silly but many people have found it to be helpful (Oprah approves). Obviously, you have to study as well as have a positive and confident outlook. Even if you do not believe this, going in with a positive attitude cannot hurt you, so might as well give it a try! 5. Time management: By this point in the semester I am sure you have heard this over and over, but it is the best thing you can do for your academic and emotional well-being. Get a calendar, a day planner or put it in your phone (or if you are me, you do all three). Writing down when, where, and what you have to do will keep your stress levels low and free up more time to socialize or rest.
Cook the egg however you like: fried, poached, scrambled (although I would highly recommend going with runny yolks). This works for a sturdy breakfast or lastminute dinner. Hummus + Cucumber + Tomato For all of you vegan/vegetarians out there, this one is for you. You can use up whatever vegetables you have in the fridge, like peppers, grated carrot, or lettuce. Try sprinkling on chili powder or paprika for an extra kick. Sliced Turkey + Apple + Cheese Spread on some mustard, then layer turkey, thinly sliced apple, and cheese. Throw under the broiler just until the cheese melts. Yumm. The turkey and cheese add protein, while the apples add a little sweetness and a satisfying crunch. PB + Bananas + Cinnamon + Honey Spread on peanut butter (try almond butter if you have an allergy), then place thinly sliced bananas on top, sprinkle with cinnamon, and drizzle with honey. Enjoy this as a delicious breakfast or tasty study snack, and add some chocolate chips if you are feeling indulgent. Smoked Salmon + Cucumber + Cream Cheese Treat yourself to a slight upgrade from your regular tuna salad. The smoked salmon has the added benefit of containing essential omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s are important to brain memory and performance, so eat up! Pesto + Tomato + Mozzarella + Prosciutto This is a good way to use up any leftover pesto you have. Many deli meats would work, like, salami, mortadella, or ham. Try it on ciabatta for a full Italian effect. Ham + Pineapple + Cheese Layer ham, pineapple, and cheese, and then grill under the broiler. You will end up with something a little bit savory, a little bit sweet, and totally delicious. Aloha dinner!
6. Get Active: A short walk, dancing around your room or some relaxing yoga can boost endorphins and keep your body and mind in balance. Getting up from your desk to stretch throughout the day will help keep you focused. 7. Talk it out: Call your parents or grab coffee with a friend and talk through what is stressing you out, they might be able to offer some perspective. Not comfortable talking to a friend or family member? The Student Resource Centre offers free counseling services (and they will work around your schedule). It is confidential and can help you deal with the stress of school.
Photo Credit: Laura Jeha
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McParland wins community service award Jalen Sabean Contributor When I started writing these articles a few issues back, I noted that “off-field” accomplishments of athletes often go unnoticed at various levels in sport. One sports team however that has certainly not gone unnoticed over the past four years is the Acadia Axewomen soccer team. With Caoimhe McParland [Keevah] winning the 2014 CIS Student-Athlete Community Service Award, a member of the Axewomen soccer team has now won this award three of the last four years. McParland has followed in the footsteps of her current teammate, Alana Fairfax, who captured the award in 2012, as well as Cathleen Bleakney, who was the 2011 winner. This is a phenomenal accomplishment for the Axewomen and Acadia Athletics as a whole, considering that the University of Alberta is the only other CIS University in the country with three winners in the last ten years. As this award is presented to the CIS student-athletes who best ex-
Sex Q & A: A sex week follow up Laura Jeha, Cailin Wilson, Quinn Mastromonaco
As part of our Human Sexuality Psychology class we decided to participate in this year’s Sex Fest on campus to increase conversation-surrounding sexuality and help educate students around topics such as safe sex, resources available on campus, and sexual techniques. During the Sextravaganza that took place during Sex Fest we set up a table and asked students to anonymously write down a question they had relating to sex and place it in a box. We then went through the questions and tried our best to answer the students’ questions. The questions we received covered a broad range of topics, but we found students, both male and female were most interested in ways they could get their partner to reach orgasm. Thank you to all those who participated, and here are the answers to some of your questions.
emplify the attributes of academic and athletic success, as well as community support, it is clear that the Axewomen soccer team is committed to these values. In speaking with Acadia Athletic Director Kevin Dickie about the impact that this award has on Acadia Athletics, he expressed how extremely proud he is of what McParland has accomplished. “She completely gets the student athlete experience and really exemplifies what it is to be a model student-athlete,” said Dickie. “She loves her sport but more importantly realizes that her sport can help her in so many ways, including being a role model in the community.” The process of McParland winning this award began when she won the AUS Student-Athlete Community Service award this year, making her a finalist for the CIS award. This is another award that has been equally dominated by the Axewom-
surable it will be. Slow, and steady wins the race. The anus is s-shaped, so slow and gentle thrusting is preferred. There is no such thing as too much lube. The rectum has no natural lubrication and is surrounded by fairly tight muscles, so whip out the K-Y Jelly. Do not use Vaseline as it is for external use only. For heterosexuals, never go from anal to vaginal sex without cleaning the penis first, as it can cause bacterial infection. What is a good starter-sex toy? For women wanting to pleasure themselves we recommend trying “The Audrey”. The Audrey is a vibrator/ dildo combo. It is small and discrete and lets you experiment with two levels. This toy will help you figure out what you like exactly and is not intimidating in size.
This toy is versatile, it can be used with a partner or single use for guys. Its name is Gigi. Gigi is a “life like pleasure sleeve” that is modeled after a real vagina, if flipped inside out also has the sensation of anal sex. Its extremely stretchy to accommodate men of any size and has an amazing What is the best way to try anal? suctioning feel to it. This toy is easy Make sure you are fully comfortable and enjoyable to incorporate into uswith yourself and your partner (ie) ing with a partner. grooming, bodily functions etc. What are the best positions for proRelax, the more your partner can re- ducing female orgasm? lax and be in control the more plea-
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en, having won the award four straight these articles are meant to encompass; years, including back-to-back wins by “[Caoimhe’s] impact on the community largely goes unnoticed because she just Fairfax in 2012 and 2013. contributes as part of her daily life”. As a fourth year CB for the Axewomen, The point is that while athletes such as McParland’s off the field accomplish- Caoimhe are not out in the community ments include being a CIS Academic All- making a difference with the expectation Canadian and currently maintaining a of recognition or rewards, it is well deGPA of 3.97. It is her involvement in the served, and awards such as this are one community that makes her a true stand- way that we can properly honour those out, boasting involvement in countless who go above and beyond. The CIS has initiatives. A short list of her involve- done a great job of having this award on ment includes a position as VP Medical the same level of prestige as some of for the Acadia chapter of Global Medi- their strictly on-field awards, and showcal Brigades, as well as volunteering with ing that the activities off the field hold the Acadia S.M.I.L.E. program, Wolfville the same value and importance. Nursing Home, Kinderskills Acadia, Acadia Mental Health Society, Hants Com- As the academic year continues on, and munity Hospital, Acadia’s WITS anti-bul- more CIS sports get underway, Acadia lying program, Nova Scotia Hearing and athletes (and athletes around the country) Speech Centre, and the Dare Campaign. should take this article as an example of Any of these things individually would how they can use their presence as a role be an accomplishment, but it is McPar- model to make a big difference in their land’s ability to manage all these activi- community. With the continued comties while also performing them all with mitment of the Axewomen soccer team, such a high level of success that is truly I am confident that we will be writing impressive. “Her resume speaks for it- an article this time next year, celebrating self,” said Dickie, “as does her amazing their fourth award in five years. GPA when you consider all of the time and effort that she puts into athletics and Be sure to follow @AxesForChange on Twitter for more great content of Acadia her community.” Axemen and Axewomen making a posiIn a statement by Axewomen head coach tive change in their community. Amit Batra, she captured the point that
crease inhibitions, which can therefore increase sexual desire, that being said, alcohol is a depressant and can markedly suppress arousal in both males and females at high dosage levels. Normally when the penis is erect, blood vessels in the penis constrict to stop outgoing blood flow, but alcohol inhibits this process, decreasing the amount of blood flow to the penis. This is also why men may Can I be tested for STI’s on campus, be able to become aroused, but not sustain their erection after drinking and how often should I be tested? You can get tested for STI’s on cam- large amounts of alcohol. pus at the sexual health clinic in the basement of Dennis House. You What are guys’ favorite blow job should get tested any time you have a techniques? new sexual partner, or any time you First things first, if you are not into notice symptoms such as painful uri- it, he will not be into it. One of the things that make stimulation most nation or abnormal discharge. effective is for the man’s partner to What is the most commonly con- have delight and appreciation of the tracted STI on the Acadia campus? man’s penis, as most men think their The most common STI on campus penis is pretty important. Sensiis chlamydia, which happens to be tive spots to focus on are the glans one of the STIs that are normally as- (tip) and the corona (the raised edge ymptomatic (shows no symptoms). around the tip). Moving the penis Therefore, since many people may deeper into your mouth can also be be unaware they are carrying Chla- effective. To avoid a gag-reflex, relax mydia; it can be more easily spread your throat muscles while firming amongst students. The best way to your lips to provide more stimulaavoid this is to use a condom, and get tion. Most women find the clitoris to be more sensitive to erotic stimulation than any other part of the body, so clitoral stimulation is key in producing female orgasm. Girl-on-top positions are better for providing clitoral stimulation than male-on-top position and allow the women greater control over the kind of stimulation she receives.
tested regularly! Why is it more difficult for some men to have an erection after drinkFor more Sex Q&A’s check out the ing? article online at theath.ca In small quantities, alcohol may de-
November 20th, 201
15
Axemen football 2014 season recap Cameron Davidson Contributor
Seconds away from a birth in the Atlantic University Sport (AUS) Championship game, the Football Axemen’s season came to a devastating end on a rainy afternoon in Antigonish. After finishing the season with a record of 3 wins and 5 losses, the Axemen placed 3rd in the conference, earning them a spot in the AUS Semi-Finals. Winning by a score of 17-8 in the final minutes, the chance to face undefeated Mount Allison in the Championship game slipped just out of reach for the Axemen. StFX drove down the field with a couple of big plays in just over a minute, scoring with 45 seconds remaining. With the Axemen lead now cut to 17-15, a perfectly executed onside kick got the ball back for the X-Men. StFX then drove the ball into field goal range, and the game winning field goal split the uprights with 5 seconds remaining, leading StFX to an 18-17 victory. It was a hard fought game for the Axemen, and one that will certainly leave a sour taste in their mouth come next season.
a big exhibition win over SMU, with young players stepping up to the plate and showing signs of things to come in later years. Regular season play then started in Week 1, when the Axemen travelled to Sackville, N.B. to face the team that ended their previous season in the 2013 AUS Semi-Final game; the Mount Allison Mounties. The Axemen fell short 2012 in a hard fought contest. An exciting home opening win in Week 2 over Saint Mary’s University by a score of 16-13, was then followed by the Axemen’s worst slump of the season. The Axemen suffered a Week 3 home loss to StFX by a score of 38-29, followed by a 48-10 trumping at the hands of the Sherbrooke Vert et Or in Interlock conference play with the RSEQ of Quebec. A 37-20 loss to the X-Men in Week 5 marked a 3 game losing streak for Acadia.
Struggling with injuries in multiple positions all season, the Axemen relied on Freshman Quarterback Thompson Richards for the start against the X-Men in Week 6. RichThe Axemen started the season with ards assisted a supercharged defense
and special teams unit to a 26-4 win season. over the previously pesky StFX XMen. This marked the Axemen’s first The Axemen had multiple players Subway Turkey Bowl win since 2012. named as AUS All-Stars in different positions, and some major award Now with a 2-4 record heading into winners. Seniors Jesse St. James Week 7, the Axemen hosted 6-0 (Defensive End), Drew Morris (MidMount Allison. In front of a rowdy dle Linebacker), and Brett Backman homecoming crowd at Acadia, the (Defensive Back) were honoured deMounties were able to come away fensively. Offensive Linemen Ethan with a 33-5 road win. Already hav- Charters and Kirby Fletcher received ing secured a playoff spot due to All-Star nods, as well as Slot Back the Huskies poor record, the Axe- Brian Jones. Placekicker Ryan Begin men took away a Week 8 win versus was named an All-Star as well. SMU in a game with no playoff implication. The Axemen held off a late Brian Jones, who broke an Acadia surge from the Huskies to win 26-17 record with 57 receptions in 2014, and finish the regular season with also notched 639 yards and 3 toucha 3-5 record. The season then came downs, enough to earn him honors as to a close the following week versus AUS Outstanding Player of the Year. StFX. Safety Sean Stoqua, who is always a member of Axemen Basketball, re“It was very frustrating at points,” ceived the AUS Football Community said Axemen veteran Dylan Hines Service Award. about the season. “I feel like the talent we had on the team is much After back-to-back 3-5 seasons, 2nd greater than what we showed on year Fullback Andrew Wilson is opthe field. We easily could have been timistic about the future of Axemen ‘Mount Allison’ this year, and [we football. “Looks good for the young could have] been the team that’s 8-0 future of the team,” said Wilson. and going to play in a National Semi- “I’m looking forward to having a few Final in a couple weeks. But at the more years here.” With a young talsame time, stuff happens. We had a ent pool of great athletes and more lot of problems with injuries, and a importantly, great students and peolot of the injuries we had were things ple, the Axemen have a lot to build you can’t prepare for,” the Senior off of. Veteran Coach Jeff Cummins Fullback concluded. The Axemen brings a ton of experience to the forewere plagued with several long-term front, and it is clear that the future of concussions, neck injuries and knee Acadia football is in good hands. injuries among others that kept multiple players sidelined for the entire
Womens Rugby
Wins
Losses
St.FX
6
0
Acadia
4
2
UPEI
2
4
SMU
0
6
Football
Wins
Losses
Men’s Soccer
Wins
Losses
Mt Allison
8
0
UNB
11
0
St.FX
4
4
Cape Breton
8
4
Acadia
3
5
St.FX
7
3
SMU
0
8
UPEI
5
2
Acadia
6
5
Women’s Soccer Wins
Losses
Dalhousie
4
5
UNB
10
1
Memorial
4
8
Memorial
9
3
Moncton
3
9
Cape Breton
7
4
Mt.Allison
3
9
Acadia
5
1
SMU
2
8
Dalhousie
6
4
Upcoming Games
UPEI
5
6
Women’s Basketball Nov 21
St.FX
3
4
Men’s Basketball
Nov 21
Mt. Allison
3
6
Men’s Hockey
Nov 21
SMU
1
10
Swimming
Nov 22
Moncton
0
10
Women’s Vollyball
Jan 10
Date
Photo courtesy of Acadia Athletics