The Athenaeum 77.9

Acadia’s Student Newspaper since 1874 March 12th , 2015 Issue 77. 9

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Dwindling job markets for students Harry Brus Contributor

Over the course of a few short months, graduating students will be enjoying their last treasured memories at Acadia University.

Summer will soon begin and for many graduates that means a rude awakening into the dwindling Canadian job market. Studies have The Athenaeum Acadia University’s Student News Paper Issue 77.7 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 Jocelyn Wilkie Stephanie Bethune Jalen Sabean Section Editors Art: Riley MacKinnon Will Cann News: Alex Quesnel Andrew Haskett Opinions: Tess Pooran Christian Vail Contributors Sport: Laura Jeha Don Corkum Production Manager Megan Stanton Jon Smith Travis Gibbons Photo Manager Robin Lawson Riley Burns Copy Editor Harry Brus Billy Van Ekris Trevor Braxton-Barto Online Manager Suzanne Gray Cover Art: Deirdre Campbell Anjuli Ripley Advertising Manager Mark Pound Business Manager 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 If there is content that we feel will not add to the philosophy, dialogue, or tone of our newspaper, it will not be published.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 Saturday at 6pm in the Athenaeum office, room 512 in the SUB—all are welcome, and we encourage you to come!

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shown that it has become increasingly difficult for Canadian postsecondary graduates to find quality employment in the modern job market. Experts have various arguments to explain the chronic rate of underemployment as well as the lack of quality positions for index monitors whether full-time post-secondary graduates. employment jobs were produced A recent Conference Board of Can- in the low, medium, or high-payada study has revealed that there is ing sectors. It also includes the a trend towards working older as a distribution of full and part-time high number of older workers have positions, and the income gap chosen to remain in the workforce between self-employment and as opposed to retiring. As a result high-quality jobs for paid employthere continues to be a growing ees. The CIBC has reported that discrepancy between the income the employment quality index is of younger and older generations. down 15% since the early 1990s, There are also significant social with a decline of 1.8% just last impacts on today’s young work- year alone. This is a frightening force resulting from the lack of statistic, especially because the progression in the labour market. research suggests that this trend is Research has also shown a direct going to continue unless there is correlation between weak eco- major reform in the policies of the nomic prospects for young adults Canadian economy. and a decline in the marriage rate.

Moreover, there has been a rapid increase in the number of adult children still living with their parents. Experts agree that this has led to a trend of younger generations delaying major adulthood milestones such as homeownership or serious relationships. All of these trends threaten to damage the Canadian economy and cause slow economic growth.

The CIBC employment quality index specifies that the damage to full-time work during each recession has had a largely permanent effect on the economy. It shows that since the late-1980s the number of part-time positions climbed much faster compared with the high quality full-time jobs. These full-time work positions have not been able to recover at any rate close to part-time positions. To make things worse, self-employment increased during the same period. These types of jobs are generally considered lower quality because they usually pay less then salaried positions. For 2014, the CIBC reported that self-employed positions increased at a rate four times faster than paidemployment. But not all the data is negative; there has been a recent positive economic trend over the past year, which saw full-time jobs increase at twice the speed of part-time jobs.

Photo Credit: Robin Lawson mist Benjamin Tal has argued that overall these trends are an indication that “deteriorating job quality is more of a structural issue than a cyclical one.” Tal has also stated the following: “Our measure of employment quality has been on a clear downward trajectory over the past 25 years.” The Bank of Canada has made repeated warnings in recent months about the state of the job market. Last month, the deputy governor of the Bank of Canada, Carolyn Wilkins in a speech stated that at the end of 2014 about 270,000 jobs were needed to bring the economy to its full capacity. Wilkins included several issues plaguing the Canadian economy, namely the fact that more than one in four parttime workers would prefer fulltime jobs.

It is clear that Canada’s public policy is not suitable, as economic laws have not kept up with the vast changes in the Canadian economy over the past 30 years.

As a result, Canadians twenty and thirty years old have been placed in an unfortunate situation whereThe problems do not end with a by they are faced with an unstable lack of post-graduate employment. and uncertain economy prone to Even those young adults who are financial shocks. That is why Canemployed find themselves with ada’s economy is in serious need a job that usually lacks sufficient of a revival in the form new poliquality and does not provide a cies. Naturally, reform will have to middle class living standard. Furinclude and promote inter-generathermore, this demographic is tional equity in the labour market. still burdened with high amounts The consequences of not doing so of debt, with insufficient job sewill be severe; the Canadian econcurity and low wage growth comomy will face eventual economic pounding this problem. The Canastagnation and then decline. The dian Imperial Bank of Commerce time has come for greater invest(CIBC) recently revealed its annument into young Canadians so as al employment quality index and to ensure the future economic it is an accurate measurement of The CICB’s deputy chief econoprosperity of Canada. the quality of Canadian jobs. The

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First round of meningitis vaccinations conclude with high turnout Alex Quesnel News Editor

The first phase of meningitis vaccination clinics for Acadia University students have concluded. Though not mandatory, the clinics were largely successful. Early reports from CBC News claim that about 84% of the student population received the vaccine. The vaccine was available to all 3500 students attending the university. It was also offered to faculty members deemed vulnerable or at highest risk of coming into contact with the virus.

ready been immunized against meningitis.

The vaccinations came after a pair of highly publicized meningitis cases in Acadia’s business program. The death of Sarah Hastings on February 1, followed by the second confirmed case of Hope Maryka on February 13, made national headlines. Thereafter, Dr. Robert Strang, Nova Scotia’s chief Public Health official, declared that there was an “institutional outbreak” on Acadia University’s campus and the decision was made to hold school-wide clinics.

Public Health warned students that “mild, temporary side effects of the vaccination can include pain, redness and/or swelling at the site of the injection, headache, fatigue and fever.” Fourth year honours biology student Malcolm MacKenzie had the following to say about the side effects of the vaccine: “The vaccine resulted in minor bruising and discomfort of my upper arm.

Some people say ‘Ouch!’, but I just say we’re awfully lucky to have this kind of health care!”

According to Nova Scotia Department of Health and Wellness (DHW): “Meningococcal Meningitis is an infection that is spread by direct contact with secretions from the nose and mouth of an infected person. The infection can be in the blood (meningococcemia) or in the lining of the brain and spinal cord (meningitis).” Moreover, there are various symptoms associated with the infection, including “changes in level of alertness, fever, headache, stiff neck, a rash, or sensitivity to light.”

Reactions were reported as mild and usually only lasted one to two days. Either acetaminophen (e.g.

Tylenol) or ibuprofen (e.g. Advil) was recommended to help with these side effects. The same advice The vaccinations were given to applies for the upcoming round of Acadia students free of charge. Acvaccinations. cording to the Kings County Advertiser reports that “enough of The first round of vaccination clin- the vaccine was ordered for 4,000 ics was held between February 18 doses of the first and second shots and February 25. An additional to be administered.” In total, the clinic was provided by Nova Sco- price of the vaccinations was aptia Public Health for students un- proximately $650,000 - although able to participate in the initial this did not include staffing fees or round of vaccinations. The session the price of additional supplies. The took place on Friday, March 6 from leftover doses will be either sent to 12:00-3:00 pm at Fountain Com- another province or returned to mons. According to the Student the manufacturer.

Resource Centre, “this clinic was also an opportunity for those who All things considered, Nova Scopurchased and received their vac- tia Public Health considered the cination privately (other than at one attendance for these clinics to be of the public health clinics) to reg- satisfactory. A total of 526 vaccines ister for the follow-up vaccination.” were administered to students on Feb. 18, the first day of the clinics.

This follow-up vaccination will be This was considered an acceptable administered on campus on March turnout given that a substantial 30, 31, and April 1 from 12-8 pm. portion of the student populace The final sessions for the second had left Wolfville for reading week. dose will be given on April 8 and At the end of the first round of

The name of the vaccine that was administered on campus was Meningococcal B vaccine (i.e. Bexsero). Most students were unlikely to have otherwise received this immunization. According to Nova Scotia Department of Health and Wellness (DHW): “Public health began offering vaccination against meningitis C to Grade 4 students through the school program in 2005, then switched to Grade 7 in 2007.” In any case, students were advised to check their immunization records to see if they had al-

During vaccinations, students were required to wear a short-sleeved shirt making it easier for the Public Health nurses to administer the vaccine. Moreover, an Acadia Student ID Card and government issued health card was needed prior to the receiving the shot. The clinic was also held on a first-come, firstserve basis and thus no appointments were necessary.

9 from 12-4 pm. According to the Meningitis B Vaccination at Acadia University Student, Parent, Staff and Faculty FAQ, available on the Nova Scotia Public Health website, “the first dose provides good immunity to the recipient, while the second dose is meant to strengthen immunity and ensure it is long lasting.”

Photo Credit: Robin Lawson clinics, roughly four out of five Acadia students had received the non-mandatory first dose.

In the Kings County Advertiser, Lesley Mulcahy, the spokesperson for Annapolis Valley Health, states the following: “No further cases have been reported or suspected.

With uptake of first dose being as high as it was at 84 per cent, this adds a strong level of protection in addition to practices that would minimize the chance of spreading the disease, such as regular and frequent hand washing and not sharing food, drinks, water bottles and smoking substances.”

On the Nova Scotia Department of Health and Wellness (DHW) website, Dr. Robert Strang reassures parents and Wolfville residents that they are safe from infection.

He explains: “even with this latest diagnosis, the risk of getting the disease remains low in the general public, and that basic precautions can help keep people healthy and prevent the spread of the illness.”

Nevertheless, any individuals with severe symptoms are urged to call 911 and seek medical attention.

Students are also encouraged to call 811 for any advice if they are uncertain about their symptoms.

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cheaton There’s a new brew in town cup Travis Gibbons and Riley Burns Contributor

Suzanne Gray ASU VP Communications

Every year, for almost 20 years now, Chipman House and Eaton House battle it out on the ice for the coveted “Cheaton Cup”. This annual tradition is a fundraiser and this year efforts will be directed to Axes in Action, with proceeds going to L’Arche Homefires and S.M.I.L.E.! This is one of the Acadia Students’ Union’s most popular events.

On March 21st, students will get out their red and blue, or green, and head to the hockey game.

The ASU has taken a proactive approach to ensure a successful event. Student volunteers will be going door to door speaking with other students and community members on how to remain safe during this busy and important day. There are a number of rules, regulations and bylaws that govern noise and alcohol consumption within the municipality – please familiarize yourself with these.

There will be a free pancake breakfast on the Main Level of the ASU Students’ Centre at 9am on Cheaton Cup day. This is a great opportunity to meet fellow students and get some nourishment for what will be a high impact day. The following morning, War Memorial House will host their annual “Barrax Picks Up” to clean garbage around the Town.

We hope everyone enjoys this event and looks out for their fellow classmates. This is a chance to show our Acadia spirit and also our passion for helping the community.

Suzanne Gray Vice President Communications Acadia Students’ Union suzanne.gray@acadiau.ca

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It was a late August evening on the roof of a small university apartment building when Riley C. Burns and Travis D. Gibbons decided to take their first shot at “the homebrew”. The two friends had just returned from a trek down to Waterbury, Vermont with 32 of what some call the “best beer known to mankind.”

Perhaps it was running out of their first batch of Heady Topper’s that inspired them to try it themselves. “Running out of Heady Toppers was one of the hardest days of my life,” says Burns. “It was like losing a deliciously malty brother.”

Over a few too many sub-par beers, the two friends decide to order a 25kg bag of crystal pale malt from a nearby distributer and decided to get the process started. Following several weeks of research on a wide variety hops, malts, yeasts and sugars, the two started their homebrew with a makeshift Gatorade jug turned masher and a propane grill. After several failed attempts, the first batch was successfully brewed and bottled just prior to Christmas of 2014. “Our first brew was a Heady Topper-inspired brew that came out very citrusy and quite sweet,” explains Gibbons.

“It was a great start and a big hit in our social circles. Still there was a lot of room for improvement.”

was slightly more challenging.

All the brewing conditions had to be closely monitored and timing was essential. The process yielded a smaller batch but it was definitely more flavourful.”

This brew, titled MWB’s “Mr. Hoptober” Double IPA, was bottled and primed in early February 2015. It was released to a select group of beer connoisseurs over the first week of March. The brew was noted as having a strong grapefruit aroma and a sharp bitter finish without the harsh aftertaste that is common with beers over 7% ABV. Remy Giftopoulos, one of the aforementioned local beer connoisseurs, had these words to say about the new “Mr. Hoptober” experience: “Delicious brew! It tastes fruity and light at first, but finishes with just the right amount of bitterness that you would expect from a double IPA. This brew has great hop character that slaps you in the mouth with every sip. Overall, a great homebrew for a couple of amateur brew connoisseurs.”

As rookie brewers, Gibbons and Burns are aware of their amateur status in the field. Nevertheless, they are satisfied with their progress thus far. “Brewing has been tons of fun and it’s great to be able serve enjoyable brews to your friends,” explains Burns.

“Ideally we could turn this into a successful business, although Like any good scientists, Gib- then we would not be using our bons has spent many hours in well-earned Acadia Kinesiology the chemistry lab at Acadia. The degrees!” two reviewed the pros and cons of their first brew process, then They also emphasize the joy of started their second batch. This brewing as a pastime. “It has time it was much more challeng- been a really fun hobby,” Gibing double IPA, inspired by Rus- bons adds. “Economically, home sian River’s Pliny the Elder. Burns brewing has been tough on the notes: “Brewing the Double IPA pocketbooks. After all, we are

struggling students! But it has been well worth the cost. Buying all the ingredients and equipment, while at the same time “selling” the beer for free makes it tough to make our money back. But we are not business students, so we will just see what happens.” [Editor’s note: the two brewers are seeking a licence to distribute and sell the product.] In lieu of a business background, these amateur brewers simply love the excitement and pleasure that comes from brewing their own beer from scratch.

Still, this duo of homebrewers is seeking to get their name out there in hopes of one day turning this hobby into a legitimate business venture. Either way, homebrewing can be something that they look forward to everyday after a long hard day of work. The two friends found a mutual interest in beer, and now are on a mission to create the next “best beer known to mankind.” If this can occur, it will certainly become a commercially viable product.

MWB – the name of Gibbons and Burns’ company – is currently in the process of working with local entrepreneur Jeff Saunders of Bad Apple Brewhouse. They are in the initial phases of brewing a new kind of red ale, which should be ready for release before graduation. Gibbons concludes by saying the following: “We are really excited to get all the help we can from Mr. Saunders. He is a very successful experienced brew master and we hope he can provide some essential tips and lessons that will benefit us for years to come both in life and brewing.” All things considered, the future is bright for MWB.

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Acadia’s Art department Tess Pooran Opinions Editor

Acadia’s Art department is small but mighty. Tucked away behind the Acadia Art Gallery is a student art studio, filled with paint, brushes, and various student art projects. The natural light flowing in from a skylight above is perfect for afternoon painting and drawing classes. In the Winter semester, two art classes are offered: Studio Art 2 and Painting 2. Both classes are taught by Judith Leidl – a local artist and pro-

fessor, who also teaches Studio Art 1, Painting 1 and Art in the Environment in the Fall Semester.

Students who are highly motivated in their artistic pursuits have the option for independent study in upper years. Acadia’s Art department has a small budget and room size but makes up for it with excellent instruction and opportunities for learning. The Art in the Environment class participated in the first Aboriginal Art

and Literature Mawio’mi (gathering) this past October. Students created art along the woodland trails using only natural, found material, which participants of Mawio’mi could view on a guided walk. We also have the opportunity to create beautiful pieces of art using more traditional materials – like acrylic on canvas and watercolour on paper. These pieces make great gifts, décor, or can even be sold!

students looking for a minor. You do not need any previous drawing or painting skills to learn and have fun in the art classes. I have seen students start without any experience and then create some beautiful pieces of art.

Minoring in Art is a nice change from the text-heavy courses that I normally take. Each Tuesday, I spend three hours doing something I love and get credit for it!

You do not have to be Frida Kahlo I chose to minor in Art at Aca- or Michelangelo to enjoy art and dia because I previously attended create something you can be college for Visual Art, and it is proud of. something I would suggest to all

Sufjan and you Stephanie Bethune Editor-in-Chief

Sufjan Stevens’ release, No Shade in the Shadow of a Cross, announcing the impending release of his new album, signaled a well-received return to his acoustic roots. With the drone like whir of an airconditioner and deeply personal lyrics, Sufjan invites you into the intimacy of his life. In turn, we’re inviting him into ours. For amateur Sufjan listeners, here are some song recommendations to get you started:

the bank you just robbed exploding behind you, as a black SUV waits for you around the corner.

A Little Lost: Waiting in the airport crying because you have come to feel this place as home, and you do not know if you are ever going to feel that way about a place again.

All Delighted People: The weather is too cold for a backyard barbeque, but you beat the heat with a yard fire. You know this is No Shade in the Shadow of the illegal in Wolfville, so you need Cross: Riding a bike in a skirt (or to listen to music that is happy, flowy pants) while springtime but a little bad. flowers blossom. Alternatively, lying cozy in bed in your drafty Casmir Pulaski Day: You fell in Wolfville apartment pretending love but you remember that evit’s spring. eryone eventually dies.

Djoharia: Sweeping a very dusty floor, imagining that you are driving through Arizona on Ray Ivany’s motorcycle pursuing vigilante justice into the sunset.

All the Trees of the Field will Clap their Hands for You: Eating pancakes and drinking black coffee with people who were strangers two days ago and are all great friends now.

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Get Real Get Right: You’re running, but struggling to find motivation. On a whim, you imagine

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PhotoCredit: Fugazi

hardcore amour:

In on the Kill Taker

Christian Vail Staff Writer

Fugazi might be the finest posthardcore band that ever was.

That said, I hate post-hardcore.

Post-hardcore in terms of punk is awesome. It is basically hardcore bands who embrace more complex song structures, play with dynamics, play longer songs, and just generally play in a way that shows that there are actual musicians in punk. Most hardcore bands wrote songs less than two minutes long with nothing particularly musical about them. Post-hardcore brought true musicality and ability to the genre. Now, when people say post-hardcore, they are talking about what I came to know as “screamo”. Personally, I absolutely hate this kind of music. As a guy who formerly listened to a lot of metal, I can see why people would like it, I just really do not like its association with punk. It also makes it hard for me to call bands like Fugazi and Nomeansno post-hardcore because they are so far removed from bands now known as such. At the same time, it makes people correct me when I refer to these same bands as hardcore. Punk subgenres, and most subgenres in general, are absolutely nauseating to keep up with so for the sake of this article, I am

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calling Fugazi a hardcore punk band despite the fact they are, in its true form, post-hardcore.

Fugazi might as well be a supergroup. Fronted by two already renowned punk singers, Ian MacKaye of Minor Threat and Guy Picciotto of Rites of Spring, you have two of the most powerful voices of the genre leading the incredible rhythm section of bassist Joe Lally and drummer Brendan Canty who was also in Rites of Spring. Fugazi is primarily known for their classic debut album Repeater which features their most iconic song “Waiting Room”. This song has become to them what “Wonderwall” is to Oasis. If anyone knows one Fugazi song, it is “Waiting Room”. Also featuring the song that introduced me to the band, “Shut the Door”, I was very close to doing this article on Repeater. However, since I already wrote an article on Black Flag’s Damaged, I figured that I already hit my way-too-obvious-a-choice limit. Aside from that, I just feel that the album I have chosen, In on the Kill Taker feels more like an album rather than a collection of songs like Repeater.

Featuring a more aggressive sound than relying on the earlier show of musicality on their previous works, In on the Kill Taker was the album that introduced Fugazi to a larger audience amidst the popularity of grunge that landed Fugazi on the Billboard charts. That said, charting is one of the least punk things to do in the eyes of most punks, but charts in the 90s were a weird time. Also it is hard to fault a band for charting when that is not under their control, thus showcasing the awful attitude that punks have towards success, notoriety, and just the world in general. The album begins with the slow dramatic buildup of “Facet Squared” sung

by MacKaye. Calling to mind the sound of MacKaye’s former band, Minor Threat, the song showcases the albums more aggressive tone and aligns the band closer to hardcore punk than the post-hardcore or “alternative” tag that they had been previously aligned with. It is followed by the more distinctly hardcore “Witness Protection Program”. My personal favourite track on the album, “Witness Protection Program” gets back to basics even more so than the more dramatically pieced together “Facet Squared”. The track also features a sing along (or in punk’s usual case, shout along) chorus that might stand out as one of punk’s more distinct melodies and memorable songs. Featuring the more high pitched and frantic yelling of Picciotto against the lower bellow of MacKaye, the one-two punch that opens the album provides not only the best tracks on the album in my opinion, but showcases the distinct styles that only a band featuring two lead singers can really effectively portray.

Also featuring fan favourites such as “Sweet and Low”, “Smallpox Champion”, and “Returning the Screw”, the album remains strong throughout as it leads into one of the stronger side B’s in all of punk rock. The album ends with “Instrument”, which would become the title of their documentary and a live album, and finally “Last Chance for a Slow Dance”. Usually when I am trying to get people into punk, this is the song I show them. Get them expecting something absolutely horrific and awful, and then give them this num-

ber that is slow and quiet in the verses and loud as can be in the chorus. The most melodic Fugazi song I can think of (outside the piano-solo of “I’m So Tired” from “Instrument”), it is easily one of the most accessible punk songs I can think of and a great way to get someone into punk. At least, it is better than my usual way of playing something absolutely horrific and awful like Crass while I scream “ISN’T THIS AMAZING?!” in their face, so basically like the article I previously wrote about them.

Fugazi are to hardcore punk what Rush is to rock. Sure, they can be out there and wild, but at the end of the day, it is just classic hardcore punk much like Rush constantly returning to classic rock anthems (although Rush is like, the greatest band to ever exist and outdo everything every other rock band has ever done so help me god I could write an entire series only about them if anyone would read it because it would just be an extended love letter to the band because they are the grea-). Basically, how I approach bringing Fugazi to fans of “alternative” rock is to think of the Pixies, then turn it to 11. Their dynamics and constant rotation of singers and styles makes every album feel different and every track a classic. However, like everything else I write, 3 songs are going to be more classic than the others. Often I say “if you only listen to one album by this band, make it this one.” That doesn’t apply here, listen to all of it. It is not hard to get into because they are just great songs. There is nothing challenging about listening to Fugazi like many punk fans claim when they want other people not to “get it”. Punk may be harder to enjoy listening to then some other genres when you actually like, you know, musicianship.

However, Fugazi have all of the musicianship of most artists you can name without giving up any of their punk sound or credibility.

TOP 3 SONGS: 1. Public Witness Program 2. Last Chance for a Slow Dance 3. Facet Squared

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The Cure – Pornography Don Corkum Contributor

“It doesn’t matter if we all die.”

reasons to hate them too (dreadful songs like “Close To Me”, “Why This is the first line of The Cure’s Can’t I Be You?”, and “The Love 1982 masterpiece Pornography, Cats”). and it is pretty genius, not only for its existential content, but because Musically, The Cure’s early gothic it sums up the entire album in one sound, like a lot of post-punk muline. Usually I reserve the word sic, was often defined by repeti“brutal” for metal music, but in tive drum patterns and prominent Pornography’s case, the descrip- bass lines that do most of the metion is apt. Between oppressive lodic work in any given song. The loud drum patterns, and bandlead- guitar’s role was to provide more er Robert Smith’s incredibly dark subtle atmospherics, contributing and depressing lyrics, Pornography to the gothic sound. The Cure’s is definitely the Cure’s darkest al- music is really more about the lyrbum, and one of the very best al- ics and Smith’s delivery than it is bums in both the gothic rock and the actual music, but the rhythm post-punk genres. section provides a strong platform for Smith’s words. The relative simPornography occupies an interest- plicity and use of repetition in the ing spot in The Cure’s catalogue. rhythm section of most Cure songs If you are not familiar with The leave the instrumentals rather Cure, their 80’s work is basically skeletal, allowing you to focus on split into two categories: the dark Smith’s words, making them the stuff and the pop stuff. Of course, perfect foil to Smith’s poetry. albums like Disintegration, their other undisputed masterpiece, blur The last album of the so-called the lines between these two sides “dark trilogy” that includes Sevenof the band a little. Pornography teen Seconds and Faith, in many is the last album before they went ways Pornography can be seen as into a more pop direction. the breaking point of their dark gothic material. The instrumenIt is a long standing debate among tals on Pornography take what Cure fans as to which period of the The Cure were doing on Seventeen band is better, and every Cure fan Seconds and Faith, and dial them has their own opinion on it. Person- up a few notches in every respect. ally, I am a fan of the gothic post- Smith’s intention was to create unpunk of their early records, but bearably oppressive instrumentals both sides of the band are good in to match his bleak lyrics, and he their own way. My problem with certainly succeeded. “pop Cure” is that while there are many reasons to like their pop al- “One Hundred Years” demonbums (perfect pop gems like “Just strates this quite well, as its beginLike Heaven”, “In Between Days”, ning is an incredibly echo-y and and “Catch”), there are plenty of reverb-heavy drum beat before

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doomy guitar lines come in. This heavy use of echo and reverb, normally the reason for horribly cheesy 80’s production, actually works to The Cure’s advantage, as they make the drums sound huge, loud, and incredibly crushing.

While I do think the album is dated in the sense that it sounds very “80’s”, The Cure brilliantly subvert the trope of gated reverb by pushing it to its very extreme like on “One Hundred Years”. Consequently, Pornography sounds like the 80’s version of hell. You will get exactly what I mean by repetitive from “One Hundred Years” too. It is six and a half minutes, and the drumbeat persists through the whole thing, never changing.

Between this intense instrumental and its lyrics that I quoted earlier, “One Hundred Years” is quite the opener, setting the stage for the long dark road ahead.

and Robert Smith’s depression was at its very worst. Pornography was intended to be The Cure’s final album, a “signing off” of sorts.

It has become a bit of a cliché to romanticize Robert Smith, his depression, the back story of this album, and its effect on the lyrics and music of The Cure, much like it has for Ian Curtis and Joy Division, but I think context is helpful in seeing why the lyrics on Pornography are so chilling. Context is also very hard to ignore, as themes of depression and drug abuse pop up all over the album. “The Figurehead”, my personal favorite track, features a rather poetic take on the feelings of depression (“sharp and open / leave me alone / and sleeping less every night / as the days become hell”), and “A Short Term Effect” is all about drugs, particularly LSD, Smith’s favorite at that time (“colors that flicker in water / Most of the instrumentals are in a short term effect”). the oppressive style of “One Hundred Years”, from the equally driv- There are a multitude of great quoting “A Short Term Effect” and “A able lines from all over this album; Strange Day” (which feature a very from the opening line I quoted earsimilar drumbeat), to slow dirges lier, the repetition of “is it always like “The Figurehead” and “Cold”. like this?” in “Siamese Twins”; “I Listen to how loud the cymbal is in will never be clean again,”; “cover “Cold” to get a perfect idea of what my face as the animals die,”; and I mean by this loud style of produc- the particularly dark “one more ing the drums. It is a great example day like today and I’ll kill you” of The Cure’s “doom and gloom” from the title track. There is a lot to sound too. dig into in Smith’s lyrics. Even the very last line of the album is killer.

So, what about these lyrics I have Luckily, it is a bit of a glimmer of been raving on about? Robert hope in all the darkness: Smith has an incredible gift with words, and his lyrics could defi- “I must fight this sickness / find a nitely stand by themselves, as they cure.” have a very poetic quality about them. As I have mentioned, the lyr- Picks: All of them. You really ics on Pornography are pretty dark. have to hear this one all the way Around the time of Pornography, through. “The Figurehead” and “A in-band tensions were mounting, Short Term Effect” are my personal drug use was at an all time high, favorites though.

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Wintertime Fun By now everyone is going stir crazy from being cooped up indoors for so long. Get those endorphins pumping and get outside. There is no better way to keep you warm than working up a sweat!

ing makes prime conditions for skiing. Take advantage, and head to Martock Ski Hill. It is about a 30-minute drive from Kentville and you can rent all the gear you need once you get there.

If you feel like skiing or snowshoeing may lead to a trip to the emergency room, stick with your own two feet and go for a hike. Take it Outside hosts a hike every SatAll the snow we have been hav- urday morning at 9 am. You can Explore new territory on snowshoes. You can rent a pair for free from the Wolfville Recreation Centre on Victoria Avenue.

meet at the store on Main Street For a sweet weekend adventure and they will drive you to the hik- check out Sugar Moon Farm, a ing spot. maple syrup farm about 30 minutes from Truro. The brunch menu Take advantage of the rink avail- alone is worth the trip. While you able to you right on campus and are there you can take a tour of go for a skate. There is a pub- the farm to see how the maple lic skate from 12-1 pm, Monday syrup is produced and make mathrough Friday, and 3:15 to 5:15 ple candy by rolling the syrup in pm every Sunday. If you are dust- the snow. Walk off brunch by taking off your old skates, you can ing a hike on one of the nearby have them sharpened at Axe’s hiking trails. Check out the webEdge in the north end of the arena. site for hours of operation.

An Indoor Workout Take a much needed study break and work off some of that extra energy with this quick, but intense at-home workout.

Do each exercise for 20 seconds on 10 seconds off for 8 rounds for a total of 4 minutes for each exercise.

Alternating lunges Push-ups Burpees Front plank Squats Mountain climbers High knee run in place Leg lifts

Cozy Nights In

Baby, it’s Cold Outside

When a trek to the bar in 20 cm of snow seems unappealing (some of us are just not that dedicated), entertain yourself at home the old fashioned way with cards or board games. Some that are fun to play with large groups are: Apples to Apples, Spoons, or the hilarious Cards Against Humanity. You could also make use of your phone, and download a game like Heads Up!, which is like a modern charades.

Let the games begin!

When the wind is howling and the only thing you want to do is cuddle there is no better time to have a significant other. Keep each other warm and plan some fun winter dates.

Unwind after a chilly day of classes by taking a relaxing bubble bath.

Go all out by lighting candles and listening to your favorite “chill” playlist. This will also help soothe the sore muscles you have acquired from walking through all the heavy snow.

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Head to Just Us and spend some quality time together over some decadent hot chocolate, cheaper than dinner but equally as delicious.

Get silly and go sledding together. There is no lack of hills in Wolfville to conquer, and it is sure to put a smile on both your faces.

If you are looking for something that does not require stepping outside the house, make your own love den by building a fort. No romantic fireplace? No problem, just tune into Netflix’s Fireplace For Your Home to get a similar ambience, crackling flames included. To complete the romantic atmosphere go sans-Wifi and turn off your phones. The quality time together without distractions will give you the right kind of cabin fever.

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Nutella Ice-Cream

To prep: line a loaf pan with sa- for an ice-cream cake, try lining the base of the bread pan with ran wrap for easy cleaning and Oreo crumbs and graham crackers. There are so many ways to get creative with it, so give it a shot and enjoy! If you want to see more Officially titled a semifreddo (Ital- removal. recipes like this I highly recommend the book or the author’s blog, ian for “half-cold”), this recipe delivers rich ice-cream with only four In a bowl, whip together the eggs Not Without Salt. ingredients – no ice-cream maker with an electronic mixer until required. Sound like the answer to frothy and then slowly add in the sugar. Add the Nutella with mixyour prayers? Mine too. ing speed on low. Follow that with After receiving the cookbook Date some whipping cream and continNight In by Ashley Rodriguez for ue to blend together (if you do not Valentines Day, you bet this was have an electronic mixer I am sure the first recipe to be bookmarked aggressive whisking will suffice). and highlighted. I will admit it was partially due to the drool-worthy photo shown but a bonus was due to the fact that I only needed to get one ingredient, the other three I already had (and I bet you do too). So here it is:

To be honest when preparing the recipe myself I did not even follow the correct order of mixing the ingredients, so it is pretty fool proof.

Pour the mix into the plastic-lined bread pan, put in the freezer for approximately 8 hours or over What you’ll need: night and, voila! Brag-worthy icecream. I was so eager to try it I ac4 large eggs tually had it for breakfast the next ¼ cup granulated sugar morning (no shame). I topped ¾ cup Nutella 1 cup whipping cream (care- mine with whipped cream, strawful not to mistake with whipped berries and almonds. I can imagine this recipe being a great base cream)

Pina Colada Smoothie Start your morning off right with this pina-colada smoothie. Close your eyes, take a sip, and imagine you are on a tropical beach somewhere.

For 1 smoothie 1 frozen, ripe banana that has been previously peeled and chopped. ¾ cup fresh pineapple chunks 1/3 cup coconut flavoured greek yogurt* Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. *PC makes a good one that is available at Save Easy.

Indoor S'mores 1 cup chocolate chips 8-10 large marshmallows graham crackers Preheat your oven to 450 F. Add the chocolate chips to a small cast iron skillet*. Snip each of the marshmallows in half with scissors and place them cut side down on top of the chocolate chips.

Place the skillet in the oven and cook for 7-9 minutes until the marshmallows are golden brown.

Serve with graham crackers for scooping up all of the gooey goodness. * if you do not have a cast iron skillet try a round cake pan

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A Farewell to Germs Billy Van Ekris Contributor

I am rarely explicit with these things, but here goes: Let’s stop reacting to anyone that sneezes as if it is anything other than a regular function of the human body.

Why bother acknowledging when someone sneezes at all? The exclamation “God BLESS you” is way too loaded with implications I do not have the time, space, or effort to address right now, but even “Gesundheit” - the harmless German word for health - is potential salt in the wound for anyone sneezing due to a compromised immune system. I would suggest an alternative, more appropriate word or phrase, but I do not think anything needs to be said after a sneeze at all.

I have no idea how or where the practice of sneeze-responses originated, but I am not all that keen to find out. Sure, the Internet makes lots of human knowledge easily accessible in next to no time - those with access to it need not really wonder anything - but some information isn not even worth the minimal effort it takes to learn it.

As a person who casually abhors the perpetuation of conceivably alienating traditions, I would much rather rant about the fact that this one in particular still happens, than concern myself with why it ever began in the first place.

If saying something to me after I sneeze is simply a reflex, a cultural act of “going through the motions” to which we have become accustomed, it is meaningless to me, and I do not want to hear it!

If it results from a fellow human’s attempt to express some form of empathy, it might have meaning/ value attached to it, but the effort is still misplaced. If anything, this hypothetical motivation saddens me most. (“It is okay, I heard you sneeze just now, but do not worry, we are all human, we all sneeze, we are in this thing together”)

tention I have unwillingly aroused to develop into an affirmation of solidarity, or concern for me!

(I write “a sneeze or two”, but my record is twelve in a row, from when I was in grade two or three.

The first five sneezes knocked me off of the bike I was riding at the time, followed by seven more as I lay on the ground in a heap of gravel, shame, and incredulity.

Even then I did not want undue/ pointless attention - I just got back on my bike.)

There, now anyone who wants to know why I seemingly harbour such disdain toward the etiquette surrounding sneezing can blame it on the traumatic childhood event above. I admit that I occasionally worry about a similar situation presenting itself in my adult life, with more dire consequences, but this is all beside the point.

(Imagine it, though: “I sneezed five times, officer, causing me to swerve into oncoming traffic - God bless me - yet somehow managed a staggering seven more sneezes while the airbag deployed and the wreckage settled!”)

I should clarify that I am neither emotionally invested enough to feel legitimate “disdain” when others struggle to be the most polite person in a certain area by immediately hollering a slew of scripted nonsense at a recent victim of sneezing, nor do not presume to write from some holier-than-thou stance as if I were an authority on the matter. I just don’t get it.

Granted, any public expulsion of bodily fluids exposes those in the vicinity to whatever germs are involved in the process, which is worth acknowledging, but I think we have gotten to a point where everyone knows of the elbow pit trick, or at least makes some sort of effort not to splatter those around them. Please tell me that the “Bless you” and “Gesundheit” I am not so inconvenienced by a phenomenon is not a passive agsneeze or two that I need the at- gressive way of shaming people

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out of public sneezing, for the sake often with little warning, our bodof our health and safety! ies violently rid themselves of dust and other contaminants.

(Sorry about all of these parenthetical asides, but I have just remem- The most likely explanation for bered how my sister used to have the persistence of “Bless you” and a reign of terror over me when we “Gesundheit” is that people have were children, because she would probably been raised to do it, but intentionally rain her evacuated that seems like a haphazard way of mucus down on me whenever she living once one has the capacity had the chance...I hope that I am to question their own behaviours. not purely motivated by past dis- I do not mean any offense to parcomfort...) ents, and I do not envy their task of rearing a child to the point of Some of you may be of the opin- it being responsible for itself, but ion that spreading germs is a good at a certain point an individual thing; that exposure to a plethora should reflect on their behaviour, of foreign pathogens could result should they not? You keep the senin a healthier, more robust society. sible things that feel good without I am not totally on board with that, damaging the infrastructure of sonor do I like the idea that draw- ciety, and try to shed the bad habing attention to sneezing acts as its, right? I suppose my threshold immune system diversity encour- between what is worth doing and agement. (“Sharing is caring, so what wastes our time and effort is let’s politely acknowledge this re- simply different than what seems cent sneezer’s contribution to our to be accepted. germy, germy bodies) What bothers me most is how No one should be going around trivial sneezing is – I have never and spreading, say, Meningitis in- known an adult to actively sneeze tentionally - apart from the health to be rude or disrespectful - yet practitioners doing so in vaccina- there is still uptight etiquette surtion/inoculation efforts. There are rounding it. Maybe it is a faulty people out there with compro- comparison, but what of the other mised immune systems (or other shunned, biological functions of conditions that leave them with- the body? I grew up in an area that out the luxury of immunization), simultaneously taught about and and it is up to the rest of us to nip ignored the existence of menstrudangerous pathogens in the bud, ation, and I have known people to in a way that the best minds in the adamantly reject the reality that field recommend. women poop. How is it “polite” to deny anyone the honesty and acSo, now what? I was asked if I ceptance that their body is a huwould be interested in writing man one, with all the functions about sickness etiquette and men- that we know come along with it? tioning Meningitis, so that has sort of been accomplished (though I I get that some of the things I have have not even touched on sniffling, written here may seem ridiculous, coughing, etc.). Instead of listing but if someone else sneezing, or other bodily functions that should menstruating, or coughing, or be accepted as they are, and on expressing any other reasonable from which we should, as a soci- symptom of existence in a relaety, move. I will try to tie a bow on tively acceptable area bothers you, this one. At the very least I should you are the one living in a fantasy. attempt to save face and make sure Of course we do not want pubI have not upset anyone. lic urination or defecation to run rampant, we have systems in place As much as I like to get myself into to accommodate that, but people a state about things and docu- make themselves feel bad enough ment it, I do not want anyone to be about their bodies on their own, on edge as a result of this article, they do not need help from anywhen they sneeze or hear some- one around them, I am sure. one around them sneezing.

It can be a jarring enough occur- Whether you have a cold or not, rence without my paranoia in- “bless you”, I hope you start to volved, as, all of a sudden, and feel better soon.

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Fifty Shades of Misrepresentation could Fifty Shades be good for the kink community, simply by bringing BDSM to the public’s awareOkay, I admit it. I read Fifty Shades ness? of Grey.

I have come across various levels of As someone who is into the kink ignorance as to what BDSM entails scene I felt the need to see what over my life (ranging from flippant was so great about this new BDSM offhanded remarks by strangers, (Bondage & Discipline / Domina- to people flat out asking me if it tion & Submission / Sadism & is abuse), so I had hoped that Fifty Masochism) book that had every- Shades would be a novel that would one in such a tizzy. I think I made catapult BDSM into mainstream it as far as Christian stalking Anas- society, educating people that its tasia to the hardware store where motto of “safe, sane, and consenshe works (so he could purchase sual” actually applies, and that it is cable ties, a big no-no, as they not abuse. In fact, two years after are designed to tighten to a level Fifty Shades’ 2011 publication, the that could cause nerve damage Diagnostic and Statistical Manual and scarring), before deciding the of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edibook was not for me. Sadly, my tion, which previously had classed torrid affair with Fifty Shades did BDSM and fetishism practitioners not end there. Its continued rise in as mentally ill, removed this negapopularity meant I heard about it tive classification (40 years after everywhere, and was often being homosexuality was removed in drawn into conversations around 1973). This renewed my hope that it. I decided that in order to formu- BDSM was perhaps slowly coming late a properly researched opinion to be understood by professionals, on the book I would have to read and that Fifty Shades’ rise in popuit in its entirety, so I picked up a larity would bring this understandsecond-hand copy. As I purchased ing to the mainstream public. it my cashier made an offhand comment about how she could not So you can perhaps understand finish it, and I, naïvely, jumped my displeasure with how E.L. at this affirmation that I was not James choose to portray the realone, agreeing with how poorly lationship between her dominant written and researched it was. She and submissive characters. Not as responded swiftly, stating that no, a proper, loving, supportive relait was not that, it was how horri- tionship, with mutual discussion, ble and disgusting the kind of sex consent, and aftercare for each they were having was. Needless to scene, but as a strongly abusive say I declined to answer her com- pairing, with Christian essentially ment and left the store in a hurry. forcing Anastasia into a 24/7 slave However, although her comment lifestyle against her protests. He may have been thoughtless and was not only controlling of her durunassuming, it got me to thinking, ing sex, he also stalked her to her

place of work, dictated when and what she would eat, how often she was to work out, how often (and how much) she should wax/shave, who she was allowed to be friends with, what vehicle she would drive, as well as purchasing a computer for her (despite her protests) so he could maintain tabs on her at all times. Fairly early on in the book he also uses his influential position of power and wealth to track her phone and discover her location, later on referencing this to frighten her into staying with him.

We can see that these are not the actions of a good dominant, but a man who wants total power over his partner, and the set up for an abusive relationship. Anastasia, in contrast, is a virgin with limited relationship experience prior to her exposure to Christian (and certainly no experience with BDSM) who swiftly falls for him, and spends the duration of the book rife with internal conflict over his treatment of her. Anastasia uses words like “monster” to describe her lover, and finds herself becoming progressively isolated from her family and friends as their relationship progresses.

All That Glitters is Self Defence?

in case of self-defense – usually from a violent attack – would be so cute. On the other hand, I do enjoy cute things and if I can clip it on to my bag and it does not say “BEAR SPRAY” in large letters that is a bonus.

Anonymous

Tess Pooran Opinions Editor

“We realized that if pepper spray were sparkly and cute, it would actually get used.” This is a quote from the creator of Blingsting, Andi. I am not sure how to react to this. I am all about sparkle and cute things; I wake up with glitter on me everyone morning (no joke, I have a problem). Yet, this makes me uncomfortable. If I am in a situation that calls for the use of

pepper spray in self-defense, I do not give a single fuck if my pepper spray is cute. I want it to incapacitate the attacker and allow me to get to safety.

There is a long line of unnecessarily gendered products – from Bic pens to Kinder Surprise. And now we have pepper spray. It seems strange that a product used

uses her characters sexual antics to mask the abuse as just “kinky fuckery”. For a book that had the power to introduce BDSM to a wide range of uneducated readers, it fell miserably short, instead leading to a propagation of the widely held view that BDSM and abuse are one and the same, and that people involved in this lifestyle are mentally troubled. In the majority of cases this is just not true.

Studies have shown that partners incorporating BDSM into their sex lives are no more troubled than the general population, and, in fact, might even be psychologically healthier, reporting higher levels of extroversion, openness to experience, conscientiousness, well-being, and feelings of attachment, as well as lower rejection sensitivity and neuroticism in comparison to vanilla couples.

Yes, I read Fifty Shades of Grey, and yes I am into BDSM. Does this mean I condone abuse? Absolutely not! I had hoped, and still hope, that Fifty Shades would bring BDSM to mainstream acceptance, and perhaps simultaneously raise awareness that BDSM is not abuse, but abusive relationships (propagated against men and women) are a very real thing. So by all means read the book, see the movie, but keep in mind the relationship you are observing is not healthy, nor typical of BDSM.

With the Fifty Shades movie release we saw a resurgence of media centering on the abusive nature of their relationship. What is problematic about this is that there is often no defining line drawn be- Resources can be wound with the tween the abusive nature of the article on theath.ca relationship portrayed, and the consensual nature of BDSM. What instead occurs is that E.L. James

Andi and her “team at Blingsting”, go on to write, “My hope is that by carrying a blingsting, you or the special girls in your life start to look at personal safety in a new way. No more walking home alone late at night. No more jogging in the dark, or parking the car in a dimly-lit, isolated area.

Making good decisions and being accountable for our whereabouts

comes first, blingsting comes second.”

This entire paragraph makes me deeply uncomfortable as a feminist, a woman, and someone who likes bling. The creators of Blingsting suggesting that women (their target audience) no longer walk home alone at night or park in certain places. Of course, we should all look out for our own safety, but something about this does not sit right with me. Also, labeling women “special girls” creeps me out. I understand that they are playing on parental concerns, but this language infantilizcontinued on pg 12

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The Conspiracy of Conspiracy Theories Anonymous

A quick Google search or peruse around tumblr will reveal how many people, often young people, vehemently believe in the many conspiracy theories floating around. This is nothing new of course, but the Internet has allowed these conspiracy theories to grow and gain wider spread acceptance. There are hundreds of blogs, thousands of people on forums all enraged by apparent political and social problems or upcoming events, yet their rage is apathetic. It is all theoretical, hidden behind screens. There is no actual proof, no research. Just thousands of people terrified of the world around them, and angry at nothing in particular. One conspiracy theorist that has made millions by preying on non-critical consumers, is David Icke – a former TV presenter, Icke was first mocked for his claims of lizard people running our governments (Brian Mulroney and Barack Obama are both lizard people). Now Icke sells out auditoriums to the thousands of mostly young people who are captivated by his theories.

organization and person of power is part of a network of evildoers, you are not going to write a letter to your MLA asking for change.

This can lead to a lot of built up rage, without a healthy outlet.

I used to a run a blog and one time I posted something about politics and feminism relating to a course I was taking at the time.

Usually I received a few messages or comments about what I wrote per month, after this post, I was receiving dozens a day. The main complaint being that feminism causes women to be evil, manhating lesbians who leave their husbands and kill their children (thanks to Pat Robertson for the inspiration). While most of these messages were anonymous, I got a few with blog names attached.

One thing that all these bloggers had in common (besides disliking me) was a belief that most political movements were part of a grand conspiracy to control minds/ destroy the world, as we know it.

Whether it is feminism, September 11th terrorist’s attacks or war, conspiracy theorist will point to some kind of grand network run by a few people. In the end it does not really matter whether they blame lizard people or an ancient organization, it all serves as an explanation of why things happen, both positive and negative.

for alien invasions or hostile takeovers and never bother anyone.

That is great – no one can tell you what to think or believe. The individual conspiracy theorist is not what bothers me, it is the network of paranoia that certain influential people, like Icke, cultivate. Icke and others like him make their money by preying on individuals who for whatever reason are attracted to these theories. Most conspiracy theories only cause anxieties or inconvenience for those that subscribe to them, however, there are some that are causing harm and even death.

The conspiracy theories floating around the World Wide Web about vaccines are examples of how harmful belief without fact can be. Believing that little green men are watching us from above or even that the Queen of England is a reptilian is pretty harmless, but when a significant number of people are making choices that can harm and have harmed others, it is not so. Seventeen US states now have cases of measles, mostly in children, which can be linked back to Disney in Anaheim, California. Parents in many US states can claim philosophical or reliA lot of conspiracy theories can gious reasons for not vaccinating be pretty harmless, like the stories children. Many argue that it is an that the Enquirer has been publishindividual right to choose whether ing for decades, however Icke and or not they vaccinate themselves many of his followers play a more Not all conspiracy theorists are or their children, however as we dangerous game. Icke has made like this, many peacefully prepare see with the Disneyland case, several homophobic and anti-Semitic comments, trying to connect the LGBTQ and Jewish communities to the most devastating of world problems. Icke blames the Illuminati (yes, it apparently still exists outside of the Da Vinci Code) and Zionists for WWI and WWII, with his most recent claim being that the current events in Iraq with IS and subsequent US responses are all part of a grand plan to start WWIII. Many of the proponents of conspiracy theories are what I like to refer to as ‘armchair activist’, not all are, of course, but there are quite a few. The term ‘armchair activist’ applies to those who are all talk and no action. They sit in the (arm)chairs, getting riled up over whatever issue strikes their fancy, but never actually doing anything about it. Conspiracy-believers have reason to be ‘armchair activists’; if you believe that every government,

12 March 12th, 2015

one unvaccinated person can affect hundreds. The anti-vaccine movement (also known as Antivaxxers) is small, but loud. Most “experts” are bloggers who have read too many unfounded claims while trolling around the Internet and now feel it is their duty to spread the word about dangers of vaccinating children. I am not advocating that we put whatever is suggested to us in our bodies, but diseases like measles and mumps can be non-existent. Polio and small pox are eradicated in the developed world thanks to vaccinations. The anti-vaccine movement has made claims that vaccines cause autism (the study they point to was discredited). This is problematic for two reasons: first off, it makes people unnecessarily fearful and may cause them to not vaccinate their children, and secondly, it frames autism as negative thing.

Many people with autism are extremely successful and happy. We do not know what causes autism, but we should not frame autism, or anything on the autism spectrum, as inherently negative.

Another reason as to why vaccines are harmful, according to Antivaxxers, is that the data behind the vaccines has been manipulated in order for large pharmaceutical companies to make more money.

I am not going to claim that pharmaceutical companies are providing vaccines out of the goodness of their hearts – it is a capitalist business and they are making a profit. However, it does not mean the products they provide are unsafe. We buy clothing and food from companies that make a profit and do not give it a second thought, though. Being educated about what medications you take, the food you eat and where the products you use come from is a good idea, but we must make sure that we are getting information that is reliable. A blogger with no scientific background is not a reliable source of information about health issues. A YouTube commenter will not give you accurate information about world politics.

Conspiracy theories can serve as a way for people to deal with feelings of powerlessness or lack of control over the world around them. It is less intimidating to say, “The world governments are be-

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

continued on pg 13

ath athopinions continued from page 12 ing run by an evil alien race,” than to realize that sometimes humans are just cruel. I once asked a friend why they believed in Icke’s theories and they responded by saying that, “humans cannot be this cruel, cause this much death and destruction. It has to be another evil.” This struck me. It is terrible to think that humans can inflict so

much pain and suffering on each other. I do not blame people for wanting to believe this. Believing in conspiracy theories meets their psychological needs, but it is only a temporary fix. If someone is struggling with paranoia, anxiety and/or depression about the world around them, it is important that they seek help. A good therapist will not judge you, but will help

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you figure out why you are anxious or paranoid and help you deal with those feelings in a safe and healthy way.

keep our rational mind. Giving into fears and unfounded scientific claims adds nothing but stress to our lives. Be a critical viewer and reader: question what you take in, From lizard overlords to anti-vac- but do not let those questions rule cine theories, we must be critical your life. of what we read, watch and listen to. It is ok to explore, to read, For more information on the psyand to critique lots of theories and chology of conspiracy theories: ideas, but it is important that we http://conspiracypsychology.com/

Brew Review: Goose Island Matilda Belgian Style Pale Ale movie ticket to 50 Shades of Grey, Scottskins, a case for a phone I do not even have, or 11 random items Belgian beers are somewhat of a from the darkest corner of the doldifferent breed from North Ameri- lar store. can beers. They have a larger history behind them, and the Belgian This beer pours with an enormous style is a bit more homogeneous three finger head and a dark yellow than the hop-crazed hipster beer unfiltered shade. A very light citrus trend in America. The Belgian scent rises from the glass, with a style beers that make it across the small hint of malt. The mouth-feel river generally have higher alcohol is fairly unpleasantly sour, with content, so you can already tell hints of carbonation and alcohol. why I like them, and not just be- The higher alcohol content is not well masked, and bites sharply like cause foreign stuff is sexy. my sister used to bite my friends This particular beer caught my in- in elementary school. The flavour terest at the liquor store, mostly has an overwhelming malty-ness because the bottle looks exactly and boringness to it, with littlelike a champagne bottle. When I to-no hop bitterness. Generally, I saw it in the beer section, I was would expect a bit of spice or hop mostly a confused and a little bit punch from a Belgian pale ale, offended, but when I saw that the this particular pale ale offers nothlabel read ‘Belgian Style Pale Ale’, ing of either. The overall taste is my heart fluttered. “I like all of quite sweet and full of yeast, like those words,” I thought. The fancy a crappy pastry. The aftertaste unbottle, wax seal, and high price fortunately lingers for a long time, drew me in only to tear my hopes and is quite reminiscent of cheaper down further like the Eragon mov- beers, which makes me regret my ie adaptation did so many years decision to buy it. ago. I spent the 11 dollars, which I shared half of this beer I would rather have spent on one the following things: Two five- with my girlfriend and I feel like I dollar foot-long subs, most of a betrayed her in some way by doing Jon Smith Contributor

continued from page 11 es women and works to reinforce “women-as-victim” norms, rather than viewing women as possessing agency and rational thinking.

The benefit of a cute, sparkly pepper spray canister is that it is subtler than traditional self-dense sprays. It can easily clipped to a bag and looks just like any other accessory. This is great if you want the pepper spray easily accessible, but do not want to explain why you carry pepper spray.

disgusted sound I made through words, but I will try. Andi and her Blingsting team missed the memo that one can be girly and love all things sparkly and still be a strong, feminist person. The names of the bedazzled designs are sexist and frame women as powerless. The company could have chosen names that were not sexist, perhaps even empowering product names. This would have helped frame their product in a more positive, less gendered, light.

The names of these decorated pepper sprays are the most bothersome. They include “Socialite”, “Trophy Wife”, and “Total Beach”.

I am not sure how I can convey the

Under the Facts section of the website, Blingsting offers some sobering statistics from RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network). RAINN offers informa-

Photo Credit: Robin Lawson so. It is a perfect example of the concept that expensive fancy-looking beer is not always good. I am going to go out and eat some deep fried pickles to cleanse my palate. This beer is just completely lacking in anything interesting.

Summary: Still not convinced this is not just shitty old champagne. tion and resources relating sexual assault. It is a helpful network and I commend Blingsting for using reputable information. I wish the company had continued to represent empowerment instead of using victimizing and infantilizing language. There is also an uncomfortable feeling of sexualization when looking about the names of the pepper spray designs. Names like “Hot Mama” and “Smokeshow” sexualize women. A tagline featured on the site states: “Dear boring pepper spray, let’s break up!” I find it odd to relate a self-defense tool to a relationship. Blingsting suggests women should use their products if they are in need of defending themselves against sexual assault.

Framing women as in need of a protector – the cute pepper spray in this instance – reinforces hegemonic gender roles of women-asvictims and men-as-protectors (or pepper spray). The boring pepper spray is the now ex-boyfriend, and the new, more attractive pepper spray by Blingsting is the new boyfriend! This is bothersome; it is a heteronormative framing of relationships while reinforces the gender binary.

Overall, Blingsting pepper spray is a cute product but the way it is marketing is disconcerting and reinforces antiquated gender roles. I suggest sticking to regular pepper spray (bear/dog spray) from your local army supply or hunting store.

March 12th, 2015 13

ath athsports

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We are on to nationals Will Cann Staff Writer

After playing one game looking like they did not belong in the series, and one game where it came down to the last two minutes of play, Acadia’s hockey team was swept in the AUS finals. The Axemen advanced to the finals after defeating Saint Mary’s in five games. The series with SMU was the more entertaining one to watch as an Acadia fan/student. Each game was closely contested, and at no point in the series did it feel like one team was running away with it.

The first game of the series set the tone for next five, with Saint Mary’s winning in double overtime. Acadia evened the series in game two with a 4-3 win in a back and forth game. Game three was the outlier of the series, with SMU taking the 4-0 win, though the score is not indicative of how close the game was. Acadia won the next two games, both by onegoal margins, securing their spot in the AUS final.

possible game three to be played in Fredericton.

Game one was, to say the least, a rough one for Acadia. UNB got out to a very quick 3-0 lead, and did not look back. Acadia, a team that normally gets a lot of shots on goal, managed only 21 compared to UNB’s 38, and it showed in the end result. The first Acadia goal came in the first period, off of a UNB turnover, and resulted in Travis Randell alone in front of the UNB net. The other Acadia goal came on the power play in the second period, with a shot from the point from Remy Giftopoulos.

Philippe Maillet led the Varsity Reds with four goals, all of them coming on the power play – two in the first period, and one each in the second and third periods.

The penalty trouble was one of the things that had Acadia in a tough spot throughout the game.

The Axemen had 14 penalties, for a total of 44 penalty minutes.

UNB had a total of 18 penalty minutes on 9 penalties, and 4 of those were coincidental minors, meaning no man-advantage for the Axemen. Ultimately, though, UNB just looked like the better team in game one.

UNB also saw their series with St. FX go the full five games.

UNB took the first two games of the series, both of which were played in Fredericton. With the series shifting to Antigonish, X won the two games played on their home ice. For the fifth and deciding game, the series moved back to Fredericton, where UNB After looking like they did not would take the win, and with it, belong in the finals in the first the other spot in the AUS final. game, Acadia came out looking like a much better team on For reasons unknown to me, the home ice in game two. Armed final series was only a best of with things I can only describe three series, rather than the best as clappers (some blue and white of five that the semi-final had contraption with three hands that been. A best of three series really when shaken back and forth clap gives the advantage to whoever together making a loud noise wins game one, and by virtue of that left my ears ringing after the their first place finish in the AUS game) Acadia’s student section regular season standings, UNB and the rest of the sold out arena had the benefit of home-ice ad- came hoping for an Acadia vicvantage, with game one and a tory.

14 March 12th, 2015

It was a hard fought game throughout, and it never felt like one team convincingly pulled away for any extended length of time. Each team’s first goal was not pretty – UNB’s coming with about six players in the Acadia crease, and Acadia’s coming on a scramble in front of the UNB net. On the power play, with about two minutes left in the first period, Giftopoulos scored his second goal of the series on the power play with a nice goal around the side of the net. Acadia went into the dressing room up 2-1.

UNB scored about halfway through the second period to tie the game up, and after that no goals were scored until UNB took the lead with under three minutes in regulation. After scoring an empty net goal with sixteen seconds remaining, UNB sealed the series sweep, and the AUS title.

Overall, game two was much closer. The penalties were more or less even, with Acadia taking four penalties, and UNB taking six. UNB again led in the shots category, 42-30, but it did not feel like they completely dominated in the same way they did in game one.

Photo Credit: Acadia Athletics After the first game, the Axemen were already in the hole for the series, and it would have taken two consecutive very well played games against an opponent that is very consistent and does not make a lot of mistakes. UNB is a team that plays solid defense, and does not allow a lot of good scoring opportunities.

Game two was not the last game of the season for the Axemen (or UNB for that matter), however.

With St. FX hosting nationals, the AUS will send three teams to the tournament: X, UNB and Acadia.

All of the games will be played at the Metro Center in Halifax, though the schedule is not set as of yet (it will be determined by the winner of a game between McGill and Windsor on March 7).

If you have a chance to make it to a game in Halifax, be sure to do so.

The atmosphere will be excellent, and you never know how long it will be before Acadia makes it to nationals in a region close enough to make it to a game.

Ranked third in the country, Acadia has a decent chance to do well at nationals, though with the format of the tournament being single elimination, the Axemen cannot afford to have a bad game if they hope to contend for the title.

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Are you feeling S.A.D?

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jects with SAD were also shown to have weakened cortisol and prolactin responses. Cortisol is a hormone that helps to lower stress Laura Jeha levels and elevate blood sugar levSports Editor els. Depressed cortisol action Every year when winter rolls also at a higher risk than men, helps explain the craving for cararound you find the same thing although interestingly, SAD with bohydrates and run-down feeling happens. You sleep a solid 8 hours major episodes is more frequent experienced by those with SAD. and still feel tired, all you want in men, while minor depression to do is sit at home with a box of with a seasonal pattern is more As light patterns seem to be diKraft Dinner, and you constantly frequent in women¹. SAD can run rectly related to SAD, one of the feel glum. If this sounds familiar, in families, and those who have a most effective treatments is usyou may be experiencing more genetic vulnerability to seasonal ing a light box that emits artificial than just the “winter blues”. Sea- changes can be more susceptible. light. Light boxes come in several sonal Affective Disorder (SAD) It was also found that 50-60% of strengths, and recommended exis a form of recurrent depressive individuals diagnosed with SAD posure ranges from 30 minutes to or bipolar disorder with episodes had a first-degree family member 2 hours depending on the power of the light. Retinal stimulation is that vary in severity. SAD typically with a major affective illness¹. necessary for this form of therapy develops during the autumn and winter months then subside dur- SAD seems to be caused by hor- to work, so you must face the light ing the spring and summer. SAD is monal changes resulting from box. Light boxes have been sucrecognized by the Diagnostic and shorter periods of daylight and cessful so far, it was found that reStatistical Manual of Mental Dis- cold weather. Disturbed circadian sponse rates to light therapy were orders used by clinical psycholo- rhythms impair the transmission significantly higher in those with gists to diagnose disorders. It can of the neurotransmitter serotonin, winter SAD than those with nonbe hard to differentiate between a which regulates mood, sleep, and seasonal depression¹. Relapse was seasonal affective disorder and a appetite. This can lead to a lower observed when light treatment regular major depressive disorder. metabolic rate and feelings of fa- was discontinued, so it is imporSome questions to help determine tigue. If you think of animals in tant to use the light regularly durthis include: nature, this behavior is actually ing the winter even if your sympnot that abnormal. Symptoms like toms go away. For those worried Is there a seasonal pattern to de- weight gain, hyposomnia, and about UV damage from the light, pressive episodes? lack of energy are seen in animals there are products available that that hibernate for the winter. Sub- do not emit any ultraviolet radiaDo seasonal episodes outnumber non-seasonal episodes?

Is the seasonal pattern explained by other psychological factors? (ie) being away from family, being out of work etc.

Frequently reported symptoms of SAD include social withdrawal, decreased activity, sadness, and anxiety. Other characteristics of SAD are increased appetite, weight gain, and carbohydrate cravings. SAD could be part of the reason you have cravings for “comfort foods” during the winter months. Another major symptom is poor sleep quality or increased sleep. You may experience an afternoon slump in energy levels, feel irritable, and lack motivation.

This might help explain why you end up watching Netflix in bed for hours instead of writing that paper you have due.

SAD is most prevalent in those between the ages of 20 and 30, so university students are at a high risk for the disorder. Women are

tion, or have the spectrum band filtered.

Other methods for the treatment of SAD include taking antidepressants, mainly the same SSRIs used to treat non-seasonal depressive disorders. SSRI stands for Selective Serotonin Re-uptake Inhibitors. These drugs increase serotonin levels and have been effective in the treatment of SAD. You may need to start taking medications before your symptoms typically begin each year, as it usually takes a few weeks to notice changes from an antidepressant.

The upside of SAD is that it has a predictable pattern of occurrence.

If you know you are susceptible to symptoms when the days begin to get shorter there are actions you can take to help prevent them before they start. One thing you can do is try and incorporate more natural light into your living space. Try opening blinds during the day, or study by a window at the library and at home. Spending some time outdoors each day, even if it is cloudy, can be beneficial. Walk to your friend’s house instead of having them pick you up, run errands on foot, or go for a short walk. Exercise is also an important component to relieving symptoms. Exercise is a good way to release stress, which can cause anxiety and make symptoms worse. Exercise can also boost self-esteem, which will help to lift your mood.

From a dietary stand point there are a few supplements you can take to help relieve symptoms of depression. Vitamin D is an important nutrient that is synthesized through direct sunlight on the skin, so it is easy to become deficient during the wintertime.

Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to depression; therefore taking a supplement can be a good idea. Another nutrient that helps maintain healthy levels of serotonin are omega-3 fatty acids.

Some good sources of omega-3s are salmon, mackerel, flax seed, and walnuts. Lastly, if you are able to make a trip to a warmer climate during the winter months try your best to do so. It can help give you the boost you need to make it Photo Credit: Robin Lawson through the rest of the winter.

March 12th, 2015

15

The broke student’s survival guide Laura Jeha Sports Editor

As we enter the last stretch of the winter semester mustering motivation to study is not the only thing we have to combat, our bank accounts are also dwindling.

It seems that this time of year is packed full of events to attend like Cheaton Cup and St Patrick’s day, and you want to enjoy the rest of the semester, for some of you your last ever at Acadia, while staying within budget. To help you achieve this I have rounded up the best that Wolfville has to offer that gives you the most bang for your buck.

fridge.

Dine on a Dime

fectly fine. Some simple swaps to the type of products you are buying can also make a big difference money-wise. One change you can make is to go for the generic brand they often contain the exact same ingredients, this applies for toiletries as well. Buy dry goods, such as oatmeal, in a big bag instead of in individual packets, it ends up being cheaper in the long run.

Produce, like carrots, are twice the price if you buy them pre-cut.

Buy a bag of whole carrots and cut them into sticks yourself to save a few dollars. Another tip is to check out the Shopper’s Drugstore on Main Street, they carry the same brands as the grocery store and sometimes their prices are better.

Food is one of a student’s biggest expenses, but there are a few changes you can make to cut down the amount you spend at the grocery store. One change you can make is to go for the generic brand, you could save as much as a dollar, and it contains the same ingredients for the most part, this applies for toiletries as well. Save your grocery shopping for Tuesday and carpool to New Minas to get 10% off your groceries at Sobey’s with your student card, the savings can actually be significant.

Before you head to the store check Have Your Beer (and drink it too) the flyers so you know what is on sale and you can base your gro- Limiting the amount you eat out is a big money-saver, but for times Here is your dilemma: it is a Satur- cery list off these items. when cooking is not an option, day night and you want to go out with your friends, but you have For those of you who can not like when you have 3 midterms in about $22.50 to your name, what make it to new Minas, make use 2 days, here are some cheaper opdo you do? Go to Paddy’s that’s of local stores’s membership tions. On Tuesdays at Pete’s they what! Paddy’s sells growlers, a cards. Pete’s has a card where ev- have a smoothie special where large jug that is just less than 2 li- ery tenth purchase you make you you can get the feature smoothtres, and if you bring back your old get 10% off, this adds up quick if ie in a medium size for the price growler you can exchange it for a your like me and go there a couple of a small. Also, bring your own new one for just $10. That leaves times a week. I finally got tired of cup and save 25 cents off your you enough money left for bar the cashier at Save Easy asking me smoothie. If you cannot break cover, and maybe a shot or two. if I had a PC Plus card and signed your gourmet coffee habit, get If wine is more your style, I would up for one and it was definitely Just Us’ Brownie Points card. After highly recommend buying in bulk a good call. Once you get up to you build up to a certain number and getting a box. You get 4 li- 10,000 points you receive $10 off of points you can get a free drink. tres of wine for about $40, which your groceries, which is not too The points build up surprisingly translates into 5 bottles, that’s shabby. You can check what items fast, I only used mine a handful of about $8 a bottle. A good one is qualify for points and shop strate- times, and I already earned a free drink! For a lazy hungover breakWallaroo from Australia, it does gically. fast there are a few joints in town not taste like vinegar, and with its 13% alcohol percentage it should Once you are at the store hit up that dish out the goods for under do you well for a night out. Just the reduced rack for discounted $10. The Front Street Café offers make sure your roommates do not produce, if you are going to eat it a breakfast special everyday until help themselves to it out of the within a few days it should be per- 11:00 am, including eggs, choice

of meat, toast, and homefries for $6.50. If you are a very late riser, go to Paddy’s, they serve brunch until 3 pm on Saturday and Sunday. try the Irish Farmhouse Breakfast for $6.99. Alternatively, you could search for your cure at the Farmer’s Market. Try the croissant breakfast sandwich from Jayn and T’s, a new vendor who serves up delicious sandwiches using fresh local ingredients.

Let the Good Times Bowl If your one of those people who start a tab at the bar, do yourself a favour and find some alternative activities. Round up your friends and split a cab to New Minas and go bowling at Fairlanes. You will get to relive your childhood, except with dirt cheap $10 dollar pitchers, hooray! If you want to have a more low-key night check out some of the great free live music in Wolfville. On Tuesdays TAN has open mike nights while down the street at Paddy’s it is board game night. Admission is free for both. If you are in the mood for a movie try the Al Whittle Theatre. This month it is playing some newer releases like Birdman, Skeleton Twins, and The Imitation Game, and at $9 admission it is cheaper than at your local Cineplex. Another event to look out for is Introductions, a coffee house on Thursdays at Just Us that also incorporates a clothing swap. You can bring in your unwanted clothing and trade for someone else’s, one person’s trash could be your new treasure!

Photo Credit: Robin Lawson