THE CORD THE TIE THAT BINDS WILFRID LAURIER UNIVERSITY SINCE 1926
VOLUME 59 ISSUE 1 • MAY 30, 2018
CAMPUS COMING SOON Milton is set as new home for Golden Hawks News, page 3
PROVINCIAL ELECTION
FULFILLING CAREERS
CHILDISH GAMBINO
VICTIM BLAMING
NEW WOMEN’S HOCKEY COACH
The ins and out of how to cast your vote
Profiling Laura Douglas, a WLU alumna
Taking a look at social justice in music videos
Navigating the consequences of shaming
Kelly Paton joins WLU golden hawk family
News, page 6
Feature, page 10
Arts & Life, page 12
Opinion, page 16
Sports, page 20
2 •
WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2018
VOCAL CORD
The Cord
@cordnews
@cordwlusp
CordNews
PHOTO OF THE WEEK
What provincial election topic is most important to you as a student?
Want more content? Check out www.the cord.ca for more online exclusives.
“Student tuition and education as a basic topic.” –Ethan Smith, kinesiology CONTRIBUTED IMAGE
Part of The Cord’s 2018-2019 team pose for a group shot at WLUSP’s annual Volunteer Appreciation night.
From the Archives: May 30, 1994
“Mental health.” –Bryan Mietkiewyck, computer science
THIS DAY IN HISTORY: MAY 30 1431: Hundred Years’ War: 19 year old Joan of Arc is burned at the stake by an English-dominated tribunal in Rouen, France. 1806: Future president Andrew Jackson kills Charles Dickinson in duel. 1842: John Francis attempts to assassinate Queen Victoria as she drives down Cnstitution Hill in London with Prince Albert.
“That would be minimum wage.”
1868: “Decoration Day,” later called Memorial Day, is first observed in Northern US states.
–Kenny Ugeagbara, economics
THE LAURIER ARCHIVES
“That’s their education platform.” –Fahd Akhter, computer science Compiled by Aaron Hagey Photos by Sadman Sakib Rahman NEXT ISSUE JULY 4, 2018
CORD STAFF EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Safina Husein editor@thecord.ca CREATIVE DIRECTOR Sadman Sakib Rahman creative@thecord.ca WEB DIRECTOR Garrison Oosterhof online@thecord.ca NEWS EDITOR Hayley McGoldrick news@thecord.ca NEWS EDITOR Vacant news@thecord.ca FEATURES EDITOR Madeline McInnis features@thecord.ca
On May 30, 1994, The Cord Weekly reported on the summer celebration party which took place on Ezra Avenue in light of exam season being over. It wasn’t until later years that the annual Ezra street party became a St. Patrick’s Day ritual. The Cord Weekly reported that the party accumulated $400 in damages by the 800 students that “took over Ezra street.” 21 officers took to the scene as the party grew throughout the day.
ARTS & LIFE EDITOR Michael Oliveri arts@thecord.ca
LEAD REPORTER Aaron Hagey news@thecord.ca
OPINION EDITOR Emily Waitson opinion@thecord.ca
LEAD REPORTER Margaret Russell news@thecord.ca
SPORTS EDITOR Pranav Desai sports@thecord.ca
LEAD SPORTS REPORTER Abdulhamid Ibrahim sports@thecord.ca
GRAPHICS EDITOR Kashyap Patel graphics@thecord.ca PHOTO EDITOR Eva Ou photos@thecord.ca CORDCAST PRODUCER Brielle Huang cordcast@thecord.ca ONLINE EDITOR Katherine Weber online@thecord.ca VIDEO EDITOR Sarah Tyler video@thecord.ca
LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER Lily Perez photos@thecord.ca SENIOR COPY EDITOR Sara Burgess copyeditor@thecord.ca SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR Jazzmine Gabert socialmedia@thecord.ca
WRPS’ Superintendent at the time noted that the city had not yet seen a street party of that magnitude. In response to the cost of damages, the City of Waterloo asked Laurier’s Students’ Union and UW’s Federation to cover the costs. However, Laurier’s Students’ Union reiterated to The Cord Weekly that the party was held off-campus and that, by taking responsibility for the costs, they would “set a dangerous precendent in ‘seperating the students
CONTRIBUTORS
Alyssa Di Sabatino Joseph DeFilippis Daniel Johnson Alan Li Esme Rigden-Briscall
from the community.’” Ensuing the party, the university and the city planned to work together to create a plan going forward to take action in response to the ever-growing street party. To learn more about the history of The Cord, check out Laurier Archives, where digitzed versions dating back to 1926 are available. “The Laurier Archives is the Library’s research collection of archival papers, rare books, and historic university record.”
EDITOR’S CHOICE Pulling gender out from under the rug, thread by thread
ADVERTISING INQUIRIES All advertising inquiries can be directed to Care Schummer at care.schummer@wlusp.com or 519-884-0710 ext. 3560.
COLOPHON The Cord is the official student newspaper of the Wilfrid Laurier University community. Started in 1926 as the College Cord, The Cord is an editorially independent newspaper published by Wilfrid Laurier University Student Publications, Waterloo, a corporation without share capital. WLUSP is governed by its board of directors. Opinions expressed within The Cord are those of the author and do not necessarily refl ect those of the editorial board, The Cord, WLUSP, WLU or CanWeb Printing Inc. All content appearing in The Cord bears the copyright expressly of their creator(s) and may not be used without written consent.
The Cord is created using Macintosh computers running OS X 10.10 using Adobe Creative Cloud. Canon cameras are used for principal photography. The Cord has been a proud member of the Ontario Press Council since 2006. Any unsatisfied complaints can be sent to the council at info@ontpress.com. The Cord’s circulation for a normal Wednesday issue is 4,500 copies and enjoys a readership of over 10,000. Cord subscription rates are $20.00 per term for addresses within Canada. The Cord has been a proud member of the Canadian University Press (CUP) since 2004.
PREAMBLE The Cord will keep faith with its readers by presenting news and expressions of opinions comprehensively, accurately and fairly. The Cord believes in a balanced and impartial presentation of all relevant facts in a news report, and of all substantial opinions in a matter of controversy. The staff of The Cord shall uphold all commonly held ethical conventions of journalism. When an error of omission or of commission has occurred, that error shall be acknowledged promptly.
1883: In New York City, a stampede on the recently opened Brooklyn Bridge kills 12 people. 1935: Babe Ruth’s final game, goes hitless for Braves against Phillies. 1971: US Mariner 9 1st satellite to orbit Mars launched. 2003: “Finding Nemo,” directed by Andrew Stanton and starring Albert Brooke and Ellen DeGeneres, is released in the US and Canada.
When statements are made that are critical of an individual, or an organization, we shall give those affected the opportunity to reply at the earliest time possible. Ethical journalism requires impartiality, and consequently conflicts of interest and the appearance of conflicts of interest will be avoided by all staff. The only limits of any newspaper are those of the world around it, and so The Cord will attempt to cover its world with a special focus on Wilfrid Laurier University, and the community of Kitchener-Waterloo, and with a special ear to the concerns of the students of Wilfrid Laurier University. Ultimately, The Cord will be bound by neither philosophy nor geography in its mandate. The Cord has an obligation to foster freedom of the press and freedom of speech. This obligation is best fulfilled when debate and dissent are encouraged, both in the internal workings of the paper, and through The Cord’s contact with the student body. The Cord will always attempt to do what is right, with fear of neither repercussions, nor retaliation. The purpose of the student press is to act as an agent of social awareness, and so shall conduct the affairs of our newspaper.
Quote of the week: “I’m tired.” - Creative Director, Sadman Sakib Rahman, trekking across Laurier’s 60 acre Milton campus.
WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2018
News
• 3 NEWS EDITOR HAYLEY MCGOLDRICK news@thecord.ca
COLLABORATION
GARRISON OOSTERHOF/WEB DIRECTOR
Laurier’s new Milton campus is approved HAYLEY MCGOLDRICK NEWS EDITOR
Last month, the Ontario government approved and committed to fund $90 million into building a new Laurier campus in Milton in partnership with Conestoga College. Located in the Milton Education Village, this sector of Laurier will focus on programming in science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics, also referred to as STEAM. The campus plans to enroll its first set of students in 2019 in a leased space, and hopes to have the campus fully finished by 2022. Laurier has already seen a successful partnership in Brantford between itself and Conestoga, and hopes to bridge the gap in education between the Greater Toronto Area and Waterloo Region. This campus aims to host about 2,000 students, which will add to the already 19,000 Golden Hawks who currently exist.
Laurier had aspirations to expand to Milton since 2008. In 2014 there was a general call for universities for expansion proposals to be submitted... -Deborah Dubenofsky, VP: finance and administration
It will be built on a 400-acre plot that includes 50 developable acres and 100 acres of Greenbelt protected land that was donated to Laurier by the Town of Milton. Laurier and Conestoga’s partnership will create the only post-secondary institute to reside in Milton, one of the fastest growing communities in Ontario. Tying in with Laurier’s goals to develop STEAM, Milton is home
to multiple start-ups and research institutions. Deborah Dubenofsky, vice-president of finance and administration, has been with the project since 2008 and became Executive Lead of expanding Laurier’s campus in 2015. Though the project has finally been approved, it hasn’t always been smooth sailing. Dubenofsky reflected on one of the first times Laurier had wanted to expand their campus, as every other university did as well. “Laurier had aspirations to expand to Milton since 2008. In 2014, there was a general call for universities for expansion proposals to be submitted and virtually all universities submitted a proposal. The government proceeded with campus expansions at York University,” she said. Among many others, Dubenofsky still knew that Laurier had room to grow. This year the school finally succeeded in being able to expand not only geographically, but educationally as well. “The government said there is still unmet student needs in Halton region and Peel region, because of the number of students that are in the immediate area as well as the fact that there wasn’t a post-secondary education presence in either of those two regions,” Dubenofsky said. “The circumstances changed somewhat which made it more favourable conditions for Laurier and we worked with the government very hard to ensure we were meeting their needs as well as ours, in order to create a proposal that met the government’s requirements.” However, Laurier’s many campuses, including spots in Toronto and Waterloo, made seeking a school in Milton easier as it was the perfect meeting point between the GTA and KW region, two of the biggest technology hubs in North America. “We are a multi-campus university and have successfully launched programs and a campus in Brantford. The advantage to
Laurier expanding to Milton is it allows us to expand our reach into the greater Toronto area. Milton is situated halfway between that innovation corridor between Toronto and Waterloo,” Dubenofsky said.
We are very confident that we can bring high-quality programs to students ...
-Deborah Dubenofsky, VP: finance and administration
GARRISON OOSTERHOF/WEB DIRECTOR
“We are very confident that we can bring high-quality programs to students and that we can really take advantage of that technology, innovation and science focus in that corridor.” Laurier is not a university that has multiple campuses that offer all the same programs, which keeps its nature small and helps contribute to its number one overall rating in student satisfaction among Canadian universities. “In exactly the same way that we tried to differentiate programs between Waterloo and Brantford, the same will apply to the Milton location, the same way it applies in Kitchener and Toronto. It’s wanting to be sure we are providing our students with a comprehensive range of programs for them to choose, and various locations that they can do that.” WLU plans to differentiate itself from the typical university STEAM experience by putting an emphasis in women succeeding in these fields as well; not just as students, but authoritative members of the university as well. “One of the very important initiatives for us in considering programming in Milton is how can we expand our reach to those
GARRISON OOSTERHOF/WEB DIRECTOR
who might not traditionally be represented in STEAM programs in particular. There is a real interest in recruiting women into science, technology and engineering as women tend to be underrepresented in those program areas,” Dubenofsky said. “Our goal is to be very deliberate about hiring faculty so that we can really demonstrate we are really serious about making these programs applicable to students that might otherwise not see them-
selves represented or might be hesitant about participating.” Laurier’s future Milton campus will extend to an engineering and technology based focus that Laurier does not currently offer, which will expand on their already vast selection of programs available at multiple campuses. They continue to look out for the interest of students, and want to cater to each and every student who wants to be part of the Golden Hawk family.
4 • NEWS
WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2018
ADVOCACY
PhD student recognized for mental health research Jennifer Scarborough is one of two recipients of the Hilary M. Weston Scholarship for work on eating disorders AARON HAGEY LEAD REPORTER
On May 7, in recognition of Mental Health Week, the province of Ontario and the Hilary M. Weston Scholarship recognized the efforts of two graduate students — including third-year Wilfrid Laurier University PhD candidate Jennifer Scarborough, for their work on mental health research. Scarborough has been at Laurier since 2003, completing her undergraduate degree and a masters of social work. She returned to get her PhD as a student of the faculty of social work and has spent a number of years working with children and adults with eating disorders. In a government of Ontario news release, the Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration wrote that Scarborough is being recognized for her work “developing inclusive practice guidelines for caregivers of children with eating disorders.” Scarborough’s research targets the field of paediatric eating disorders. She specifically works with children and families who struggle with these issues.
Currently, her research focuses on mothers who have a child with an eating disorder. “The reality is — who actually shows up for treatments, who is the one actually doing the bulk — is typically mothers. I think in research we’ve left out the gender and we’ve just said ‘parents,” Scar-
Depending on the definition of recovery, depending on what stats you’re reading, eating disorders can only have a 50 per cent recovery rate ... -Jennifer Scarborough, PhD student at Laurier
borough said. “When we [just] call it ‘parents’ we’re not really getting an accurate portrayal of who is doing [the] supporting of their child through treatment.” Scarborough’s interest in the
field of mental health and eating disorders comes from both personal and work experience. They constitute a specifically worrisome aspect of mental health concerns that she hopes to tackle. “I’ve had families and friends who have eating disorder issues or eating issues. I have family members themselves who have had to look after children who have significant health complications,” she said. “Depending on the definition of recovery, depending on what stats you’re reading, eating disorders can only have a 50 percent recovery rate at its best.” Scarborough’s research hopes to get fathers more involved in supporting eating disorder treatment, as opposed to just mothers. “I felt that one of the pieces that was missing — in terms of hopefully engaging fathers in supporting mothers more through this — would be identifying what realities these parents are going through,” Scarborough said. “We really don’t know what the experience of being a mother is when you have a child with an eating disorder and the demands that are placed upon you.”
“My hope is that — by researching this area and looking at the realities mothers face — we can find a way to better support mothers and hopefully engage fathers more in the treatment process.” Scarborough is optimistic for mental health care services in Ontario, directed both at eating disorders and mental health in general, but has greater expectations. “I think we’re doing the best we can with what we have, but what we have is not enough.” She recognizes the efforts of the mental health care system, but describes that it often produces a “whack-a-mole” type effect — targeting specific issues and causing other related problems to occur. “Eating disorders are co-morbid issues,” said Scarborough. “We’re [also] seeing depression, anxiety — a lot of these kids and adults are coming in with trauma, whether it be sexual assault or other traumas.” “People are trying to help an eating disorder … the eating disorder symptoms go down, [because] we targeted those, but other symptoms such as depression, anxiety — behaviour associated with trauma — increase.” Scarborough suggests that
mental health services in Ontario need to evolve, to create a more streamlined and organic progress to deal with the various collective issues that children and adults are
I think we’re doing the best we can with what we have, but what we have is not enough.
-Jennifer Scarborough, PhD student at Laurier
facing. “We need a more integrative, holistic way of helping these kids instead of just shipping them off to little silos that say ‘here’s where depression goes, here’s where anxiety goes, here’s where an eating disorder goes,’” Scarborough said. “We really need collaborative, integrative, seamless care for families and children.”
COMMUNITY
$1 million donation to Themuseum SAFINA HUSEIN EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Early this week, BMO announced’s their intent to offer Themuseum a game-changing donation of $1 million. The donation comes in two parts, the first being the monetary fund to revitalize and transform Themuseum. The second comes in the form of the sale of the BMO building found right next to Themuseum’s location in downtown Kitchener. "We first offered the sale of our
The community has grown faster than arts and culture has been able to keep up.
-Julie Barker-Merz, BMO senior vice-president
building to Themuseum as a first right of refusal purchase at a very reasonable cost, so I would say not at market level. They agreed to do that which is great,” said Julie Barker-Merz, BMO’s senior vice-president for southwestern Ontario and member of Themuseum’s board, said. The BMO location, which will ultimately allow Themuseum to expand, is set to relocate to another smaller location in downtown
Kitchener. For Themuseum, the funds provide an opportunity to revamp the arts and culture community in the Waterloo Region, allowing it to bring a larger vision into fruition. “The museum is doing great — what this donation is intended to do is to be the beginning of a capital campaign,” Barker-Merz said. "To do the type of renovation and expansion to both the community and to the BMO building next door is going to require a lot of funds. It’s a multi-million dollar range, we’re still not sure how much it’s going to cost so we’re going to be kick-starting a co-creation campaign.” The co-creation campaign will involve asking the arts and culture community for input on how to expand Themuseum, how much the expansion will cost and, finally, how to raise the appropriate funds. “This is a way to get corporate Canada at the table and say BMO believes that this is part of a an important transformation for arts and culture in downtown Kitchener,” Barker-Merz said. “We’re challenging other businesses to do the same — jump in and be a part of the capital campaign and help support the development.” Baker-Merz noted that the expansion echoes the development of the vibrant arts and culture community that already exists in the Waterloo Region. “The community has grown faster than arts and culture has been able to keep up. This is a great opportunity to expand and build
and connect it to all the things that make KW thrive,” she said. Overall, Barker-Merz said she was excited to be a part of a project that will hopefully ensure the arts and culture community in KW thrive and expand. “As we celebrate our fifteenth anniversary, I am thrilled with the opportunity to build on our original motto of Art, Science & Technology at Play …” said David Marskell, CEO of Themuseum in a press release. “We will continue with what we have become known for — from pop culture and branded large exhibitions to family experiences, STEAM programming and Museum After Dark events for young, culture-craving urbanites.”
This is a great opportunity to expand and build and connect it to all the things that make KW thrive.
-Julie Barker-Merz, BMO senior vice-president
“We are, as always, open to collaborating with other groups to create something truly unique that celebrates the DNA of this community. Exciting times are ahead and I urge the community to stay tuned!”
SAFINA HUSEIN/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
NEWS • 5
WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2018 ELECTIONS
JAKE WATTS/FILE PHOTO
The faces of change for the Students’ Union ESME RIGDEN-BRISCALL CORD NEWS
On Feb. 1, Tarique Plummer officially became Wilfrid Laurier University’s newest Students’ Union president and CEO. Plummer ran on a campaign platform of “community cohesion and helping others” — committing to different series of initiatives which aim to change the way students interact with the university. Winning the election with 52.35 per cent of the votes, Plummer is committed to following through on his campaign initiatives — ones he says were put forward by the student body. “When I was developing my platform, the ideas that came about are not essentially mine,” Plummer said. “They are the students’ who said ‘Tarique, this is what we want to see the Students’ Union do.’” Working alongside Plummer is the new Chair and CGO of the Board of Directors, Adam Kovacs. Both Plummer and Kovacs have begun working hard in the summer months — getting comfortable in their new positions and preparing for the upcoming academic year. Plummer reports that his summer has been spent on “building key relationships within [their] team; the campus partners doing preparations for September; and also working on platform initiatives that [they] know [they] can accomplish during this portion of [their] time.”
When I was developing my platform, the ideas that came about are not essentially mine. They are the students’ who said ‘Tarique, this is what we want to see tha Students’ Union do. -Tarique Plummer, Students’ Union President
Kovacs also reports a similar plan for the summer. Moving into his new role, he plans to orient himself and jump right into work.
“I’ve been in the office every single day practically. Talking to the staff, seeing what they do, talking to the former chairs — just seeing exactly what they did and getting to know the people in the office,” Kovacs said. In his message to the student body, Plummer lists the fifteen initiatives put forward to enhance the student experience at Laurier. In regards to which of the fifteen will be at the forefront of the fall semester, Plummer says there is no simple answer. “What I’ve done so far is delegate different platform initiatives based on nature to each vice president,” Plummer also said. “Certain initiatives can only be accomplished at certain times.” Looking forward, an initiative like the integration of the Wellness Centre will be put in motion later in the year — Plummer hopes it will be brought to the students around next year’s election period as a referendum question. Currently, Plummer reports that the Student Ambassador Program is already in the works and has opened up for executive positions. Overall, Plummer plans to release a monthly report to the student body, keeping track of the changes and programming that will come. “What will happen is that at the beginning of each month, I’ll be making a release to the students to say ‘Hey, this is what we’ve accomplished so far — this is what we have done according to the platform you elected me on, these are the additional things we have done as well, and you’ll hear from us again in the next month.’” When asked about his own priorities as Chair, Kovacs says the elections are his main focus. “I’m starting early. I’m thinking about what exactly we can do and how we can increase our voter turnout,” Kovacs said. On May 12, the Students’ Union held their first official meeting with Plummer and Kovacs in their new positions. Both Plummer and Kovacs were happy to report that the meeting went extremely well. “I, as a two time board director, former director, and former chair of the board was thoroughly impressed with the level of professionalism, with the keenness of the directors and with the quality of the questions that we asked at that table,” Plummer said. Kovacs also noted the quality of
discussions and questions brought forward in the meeting, and that the overall experience was indicative of a great year. “It was a very quick meeting,”
I’m starting early. I’m thinking about what exactly we can do and how we can increase our voter turnout.
-Adam Kovacs, Chair of the Board
Kovacs said. “We’re all on board, we’re all on top of what we need to be done and we were just able to whip through it.” When asked about the recent exposure Laurier has received regarding various students and clubs, and the tough conversations the school has had to have, Kovacs and Plummer gave insight into how the new leaders within the Students’ Union will be moving forward. “We should take this as a learning experience and see what systems we can look at and address to see how best we’re sending important messages to the students and to see where in our culture we can modify.” When the beliefs and opinions on campus vary greatly, Kovacs states the role of the Students’ Union is to remain neutral. Moving closer to the academic year, Laurier’s new leaders express what they are most excited for. Plummer noted that there are three major pieces he is looking forward to: accomplishing what the students elected him to do, building relationships with fellow students and the uncertainty that awaits him in his new position and the entire organization. Coming into his new position, Kovacs says that he is most excited for the board. “It’s a great year because we are all fresh out the gate, everyone is getting along, everyone’s excited and we’re having a lot of fun. Our goal this year is to help the student body, and we are going to make sure that happens,” Kovacs said.
LUKE SARRAZIN/FILE PHOTO
Students’ Union president Tarique Plummer.
LUKE SARRAZIN/FILE PHOTO
Adam Kovacs, Chair of the Board.
6 • NEWS
WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2018
ELECTION
SAFINA HUSEIN/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Confused on how to vote? Here’s a guide: AARON HAGEY LEAD REPORTER
Ontario’s provincial election, chiefly contested by the Liberals, Progressive Conservatives, New Democratic Party and Green Party, is going to take place on June 7. The event foreshadows the Ontario municipal elections occurring on October 22. The polls will be open for voting between 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Voter turnout in the 2014 election was 51 per cent. However, this is an optimistic figure when compared to under-24 voters, who made up a mere 34 per cent. With these concerning numbers, The Cord hopes to provide some information and tips on making the voting process more accessible,
understandable and straightforward, to encourage everyone to do their part in June. Registering to Vote: Using Elections Ontario’s website, you are able to quickly and easily register, update or confirm registration with the official Voters List. To update or add your information, you will need a piece of identification that has your name and current residential address. If you are 16 or 17, you can register as a future voter through the website as well. If you are living on campus for the summer, but aren’t from Waterloo, there are a few options available.
You can choose to vote in the electoral district where you are currently residing or in the electoral district you are temporarily living in for school. In order to do this, you need to make sure you provide a document that proves your name and proof of residence and ensure you update your information through the website. Where to Vote: Once you are on the website, you will be required to enter your full name, date of birth and home/ mailing address. The website will then tell you which electoral district you are in, giving further information on where and when to vote through a
Voter Information Service website. The VIC will allow you to enter your postal code to determine your voting district, and give you a list of potential options to vote. This includes voting on election day, which will give you the closest voting location, address and a link to the local candidates, with an option to add it to your calendar. Advanced Voting: If you are not able to vote the day of the election, the website even gives you the option to vote in advance, which opened on May 10. You can choose to vote in person the day before the election, through an early advance voting station or a returning office. The returning office gives voters
the ability to use assistive voting technology, for issues of accessibility, or to update their voting information. Otherwise, you can also vote through the mail, through the use of a special ballot. If you cannot make it to a voting location before the election, you can download a voting application form to receive the special ballot. This must be done before June 1 at 6 p.m. and the ballot must be completed before June 7 at 6 p.m. With so many potential, accessible and easy ways to vote in the upcoming election, there is little reason that it should be put off. Voting is an imperative way to make sure that your beliefs, opinions and priorities are being heard and recognized by the province.
EDUCATION
Indigenization Fund at Laurier SAFINA HUSEIN EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
DOTUN JIDE/FILE PHOTO
Wilfrid Laurier University has created an Indigenous Knowledge Fund in order to support and encourage the presence of Indigenous content within academic settings on both the Waterloo and Brantford campus. Last year, Laurier Brantford’s faculty of Indigenous Studies, in collaboration with the Office of Indigenous Initiatives and the Office of the Dean of Students, created the fund. “We thought that the knowledge fund would be a great way to provide some resources for faculty to bring Indigenous knowledge when they want to go over Indigenous content,” said Lianne Leddy, professor of Indigenous Studies at Laurier. The funds can be used for various academic purposes, but have primarily been used to assist in bringing guest speakers and for field trips related to Indigenous knowledge. Leddy explained that the funds are administered through Brantford’s Office of the Dean of Students; however, the allocation of the funds stems from a small committee made up of herself,
Jean Becker, senior advisor of Indigenous initiatives on Laurier’s Waterloo campus, as well as a student representative. “We decide as a committee what the funds can assist with — but
We thought that the knowledge fund would be a great way to provide some resources for faculty ...
-Lianne Leddy, professor of Indigenous Studies
100 per cent of that money goes to classroom activities, field trips, that sort of thing.” Since the fund was first created, the Brantford campus has raised approximately $20,000. In light of the fund’s success, a second fund, started through Hawk Starter, was created with intentions to support multi-campus initiatives. “In response to Dr. Widdowson’s talk [held by] Laurier Society
for Open Inquiry, in the past few weeks, I asked the WLUFA diversity and equity committee to start a Hawk Starter campaign so that people, if they chose to, could support the establishment of the fund across all campuses,” Leddy said. Within the past few weeks, the new fund has already accumulated over $6,000. “We’re hoping to make this sustainable … we do think there’s a lot of value to building bridges between Indigenous communities and the institution as well. Obviously the benefits to students are very positive, so we’re hoping to make this a more sustainable thing,” Leddy said. With a new Laurier campus coming to Milton, Leddy noted that she hopes the funds will secure equal, knowledgeable content for all Laurier students. “Making sure that students have access to the same programming across all campuses is vital as a multi-campus institution,” Leddy said. “It’s part of the strategic academic plan for the institution as a whole and it’s part of Laurier’s commitment to truth and reconciliation and I think it’s something that all students should be able to benefit from equally.”
WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2018
NEWS • 7
Comparing and contrasting the significant topics of the provincial candidate platforms
GREEN PARTY
PC
LIBERAL NDP
STATISTICS SOURCED FROM PARTY PLATFORMS AND MACLEANS
COMPILED BY AARON HAGEY/LEAD REPORTER LAYOUT BY SAFINA HUSEIN/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
8 • GAMES
WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2018
WORD SEARCH
ALUMNA CAREERS GENDER LANASLOUNGE METGALA PROVINCIAL BASKERY DOVE GOLF LAURADOUGLAS MILTON VOTING CANNABIS ELECTION KELLYPATON MENTALHEALTH MUSIC WORKOUT
SUDOKU
GAMES • 9
WEDNESDAY,MAY 30, 2018
Dear Life Dear Life is your opportunity to write a letter to your life, allowing you to vent your anger with life’s little frustrations in a completely public forum. All submissions to Dear Life are anonymous, should be no longer than 100 words and must be addressed to your life. Submissions can be sent to dearlife@thecord. ca no later than Monday at noon each week.
Sincerely, Freely Lactose Dear Life, I could stay on the floor or ceiling, but your shoulder is much more appealing.
I need advice. Sincerely, Where did you go?
Dear Life,
Best of luck to this year’s wonderful group of Cordies. Your job is important and your work is thankless, but you’ve got the best group of people to do it. Sincerely, Fam
Sincerely, Also why do you put gummies in them
Sincerely, Hot and bothered Dear Printer,
Dear Life, Please work. I have the best job. Group chat is quiet. I will rest my weary head, And dream of all y’all.
Sincerely, I’m so lucky to be happy.
Sincerely, Printer
Sincerely, Thanks for being such amazing friends, meme dream team
Dear Life, Why do people play games?
I’m never squatting in public ever again.
Dear Life,
Sincerely, Just be straight up
Sincerely, Horrified.
Dear TC,
Dear Life,
We aspire to be you.
I regret nothing.
Sincerely, Butter. Butter. Butter.
Sincerely, Me
Dear Maverick,
Dear Jehova,
You’re a good boy. The goodest of boys. Keep up the fantastic work, buddy.
I’m sorry I missed your call. I was being a bad boy. Unlike Maverick.
Sincerely, Your admirer
Sincerely, Dogs are pure
Dear Life,
I thought I was past the point of one night stands and waking up in strangers beds but a little too much sangria and I am right back to my second year ratchet self.
When there’s too much drama at school, all you gotta do is...
Sincerely, A Gaelic Gal
Sincerely, YEET
Dear time, Don’t do that.
Dear Life, A haiku for my dearest love, Emily Waitson My opinion editor with vegan cheesecake.
Heat is unyielding, Swamp ass is a sticky thing. End my suffering.
Dear Life,
Sincerely, Your favourite editor
Dear Life,
Sincerely, If my apartment burned down today and I could only grab one thing it would be the half eaten XL hummus I have in my fridge
For real though, how do you take a jello shot? With a spoon? All at once? Isn’t that a choking hazard?
Dear Life, Sincerely, One Leggy Boi
There was a reporter named Hagey. He keeps my heart in a baggie. He’s a sensitive guy, Prefers butt to the thigh, He loves me despite my boobs being saggy.
Dear Cordelia,
in a league of its own and can’t be quantified by poetic rules.
I was going to write a limerick about hummus but apparently nothing rhymes with hummus so I hope you all know that hummus is
Sincerely, Too fast Dear Life,
WE NEED YOU Got a talent for writing, photography, social media, graphic design and more? Volunteer for us! thecord.ca/volunteer
A Haiku for Summer,
10 •
FEATURES EDITOR/MADELINE MCINNIS/FEATURES@THECORD.CA
Hawk meets towering heights with Dove Features Editor Madeline McInnis talks to Laurier grad Laura Douglas, Dove social mission associate brand manager, about finding fulfillment beyond your diploma “Volunteering and being really involved at Laurier was my way of giving, Unless you’re in a major like accounting or engineering, your future career goals aren’t usually announced in the title of your degree, leaving a world of but it also reinforced to me that it was the way of living and the way I wanted to continue to live my life,” Douglas said. possibility and opportunity for the frightening world beyond your diploma. In addition to these aspects that affected her outlook, she cited that getWe’re told that degrees open up multitudes of doors, but I think it’s imting involved helped with her leadership, communication and gave her a portant to note that they also show you doors that you didn’t even consider network of likeminded friends, all while advocating for causes she believes or think of in the first place. Not every business major will end up on Wall in. Street, but the skills you learn will pave pathways to new opportunities. Douglas got her foot in the door at Unilever through the co-op program That is exactly what happened to Laura Douglas, who received her bachat Laurier, where she started as an intern, then continued through to the elor of business administration from Wilfrid Laurier University in Fall 2015. future young leaders program, the sales team, to marketing and in the Dove Douglas recently moved to London, United Kingdom, for her latest opporSelf Esteem program in Canada before landing this job in London. tunity with Unilever, the parent company responsible for Vaseline, Q-Tips, The vision of the program is one that Douglas believes in, so she’s able to Lipton chicken noodle soup, Red Rose tea, Klondike bars, Axe body spray throw all of her passion behind it. She was also responsible for helping the as well as 400 other brands and all of their products around the world. program into the curriculum of Ontario’s schools in an attempt to encourMore specifically, Douglas has found her home in the Dove Beauty Camage girls to live their lives to their fullest potential. paign, where she is the Dove social mission associate brand manager. This “It’s great, and we should all be telling each other that we’re beautiful, job takes Douglas to a global stage with the Dove Self Esteem campaign. but we should be empowering young girls and older women that you are Though Douglas never pictured herself directly in this role, she rememalso smart, and you’re talented, and you’re funny. There’s more to you than bers growing up with the Dove campaign for beauty. She told me a touchyour beauty.” ing story about going to a book signing with some of the executives in the She stressed that it wasn’t the share value of the company that was imcampaign when she was younger, and now she keeps that book on her desk portant to her in looking for a job, but rather the work that as a reminder of how far she’s come. the company was doing to give back to people. “I was a little girl with a dream and now I feel like “[Unilever] was a company that I knew was trying to do I’m a woman with a vision who gets to do this and good in the world,” Douglas said. “Through my time with activate this globally,” she said. However, it seems to To me, passion is very Enactus, that’s when I realized what I wanted to do with me that a fulfilling career was always in the cards for much a feeling, and when my business degree.” Douglas based on her goals and work ethic. you can take the time to sit Right now, Unilever is focused on sustainable living, What really stuck with me from my conversation down and think about what and the company has a ten-year plan for this mission. with Douglas, especially for those of us who are curyou want your life purpose to Furthermore, the brands within the company are looking rently having meltdowns about what we’re going to do be, that purpose becomes to develop “social missions,” an internal term referring to with our degrees when our Laurier tenures are over, your north star, the direction how the brand makes an impact beyond the products that was her explanation of her life’s purpose and how that you’re going to take your life it sells. Dove has the beauty project, and other brands are led her to the fulfilling role she’s in now. in and, overall, your committrying to make a positive impact as well. “Find and follow your purpose, not your passion,” -Laura Douglas, Uniliver I don’t know about you, but I never really picture this she explained. “To me, passion is very much a feeling, from big companies. When I think of fulfilling jobs that and when you can take the time to sit down and think help people, I think of doctors and social workers. This reabout what you want your life purpose to be, that ally showed me that you can help people no matter your purpose becomes your north star, the direction you’re position if you have a vision and you’re trying. going to take your life in and, overall, your commitOur years at Laurier aren’t the end of the world, either. There’s a lot that ment to the life you’re going to live.” each of us wants to pack into our tenures, but our lives are ahead of us and For Douglas, that purpose is “with energy, empower others through serthere are so many more opportunities to learn, grow and experience. vice and impact.” She also said that when she didn’t feel she was meeting “I wanted to go and eventually work in another country, just to have that this goal through her employment, she turned elsewhere in an attempt to experience of learning a new culture,” Douglas explained. “I didn’t do it empower others. at Laurier, but I knew I would eventually do it and I was really happy that That’s something that we can all learn from. The best advice I ever heard Unilever gave me the opportunity to be able to do that kind of thing.” was from Chris Hadfield when I went to a talk he gave when I was in high So there you have it. There’s a world outside Laurier that is waiting for school. He said that you should go for the position you want, no matter each of us. There are exciting things to come, even if we can’t see exactly what it is, because even if you don’t get to that specific position, you’ll end what that is all of the time. up somewhere around it, and you’ll be happy there anyway. Following her story and watching it come full circle, it’s easy for me to I think that’s exactly what Douglas is saying too. Even if you end up in a be inspired by Douglas. In the same way that she didn’t know she’d end job you never anticipated or a position that you never pictured yourself in up working for the company that helped shape her adolescence, there’s a throughout university, if you’re satisfied and you’re happy with how that world of things that each of us enjoys that we probably haven’t even considwork fulfills your life, that’s where you belong. ered for careers. “I try to live life without regrets and want to make only positive improve“It’s just such a blessing to see that, with hard work and perseverance, ments in my life, so if there’s an opportunity that I did or didn’t do that your dreams really can come true, as corny as that sounds.” didn’t go well, I just take it as a learning [experience] and continue to look If we, like Douglas, take each of our life purposes with us out into that at it in a positive way.” world and do the best we can to help others with the opportunities we are As for what prepared Douglas for this role, she really threw herself into given, the future really doesn’t seem so scary after all. life at Laurier. In her four years, she was involved with Five Days for the Homeless, Enactus Laurier, and what is now LazSoc, among various other opportunities.
FEATU
URES
WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2018 • 11
I try to live life without regrets and want to make only positive improvements in my life, so if there’s an opportunity that I did or didn’t do that didn’t go well, I just take it as a learning [experience] and continue to look at it in a positive way. -Laura Douglas, Uniliver
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WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2018
Arts & Life
ARTS & LIFE EDITOR MICHAEL OLIVERI arts@thecord.ca
EQUALITY
Gambino breaks new ground EMILY WAITSON OPINION EDITOR
Donald Glover — the Emmy, Golden Globe and Grammy award winning artist known as the critically acclaimed talent behind the moniker Childish Gambino — recently released a music video for his latest hit single, “This is America.” The video currently holds 172,189,383 million views on YouTube and has garnered a significant amount of attention on social media. Rife with relevant cultural symbolism directed at the violent and racially tone deaf society we live in today, it’s clear that Gambino is a force to be reckoned with — and he has a lot to say. There is quite a bit to unpack in this nuanced powerhouse of a video — from the lyrics of the song itself, to the cleverly hidden visual messages scattered throughout it. Watching “This is America” is a conflicting emotional experience. It shifts between being entertaining, unsettling, catchy, dark and above all else, poignant. All of the memes and remixes
of it aside, Gambino shamelessly offers up a societal critique that’s just obvious enough to get people thinking about what it really means. From his very first appearance onscreen to his last, Gambino transitions through a slew of historical and cultural references centred on racial strife and uncensored violence. He dances across a warehouse with exaggerated facial expressions — reminiscent of mocking and racially disparaging minstrel acts — until he slowly pulls out a gun and lowers himself into a Jim Crow era pose, casually executing the guitarist, Calvin the Second, in front of him. Without missing a beat, he continues to make his way through escalating scenes of violence that carry on in the background, while black school children perform alongside him. They are a collective distraction against the muted scenes of brutality playing out behind them and Gambino’s intentional construction of this disparity becomes increasingly apparent as the video progresses. Perhaps the most shocking moment occurs when he emotionlessly guns down an African American choir with an assault rifle — a probable reference to the 2015
Charleston shooting committed by a white supremacist that resulted in the deaths of nine black church members. The victims in the video are treated with little sensitivity as they are dragged out of view and disregarded entirely, while the guns Gambino uses in each instance are handled with care — immediately taken away from him to be wrapped up attentively. He contemplatively pauses with his hands poised purposefully as if he were aiming a gun, only to retract and light himself a joint before climbing on top of a dated car to break into a dance once again. This particular moment is one which people have noticed mirrors a banned scene from Michael Jackson’s “Black or White” music video, the similarities between the two being notable when you consider their collective meaning. As the camera pans out to show other older cars and a grooving Gambino fading out of focus, he stops suddenly and looks up — the music shifts as a staccato beat similar to the sound of gunshots carries over into the video’s final moments. As he bolts down a darkened hallway with a terrified expression on his face, Young Thug pointedly sings, “You just a Black man in this world / You just a barcode, ayy.”
CONTRIBUTED IMAGE
It’s here that we see Gambino for what he’s been reduced to and what he represents — a faceless black man running away in fear. No longer a caricature or an entertaining placeholder, he’s a person of colour escaping what can be seen as an inevitable end since the time of slavery to the day and age we live in now. Childish Gambino’s work is masterful in its execution and it has generated much needed discussion and attention regarding the
numerous issues surrounding gun violence in America, along with the prevailingly indifferent treatment towards POC and police brutality. From unabashed symbolism surrounding America’s disposability of black lives, right down to his subtle clothing choice that closely resembles a pair of Confederate army pants, Childish Gambino proves that he isn’t afraid to make a statement — setting the bar remarkably high for the musical artists who follow him.
LOCAL
Sticks and Scones won’t hurt me New local bakery pleases with delicious and tasty treats SAFINA HUSEIN EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Sticks & Scones, a trendy and modern bakery, has recently opened its doors in the heart of the university area, located at 62 Balsam Street, behind Wilfrid Laurier University’s Lazaridis Hall. The local bakery, which has now been open for approximately two months, offers customers fresh coffee and baked goods as well as a specialty catering service. The store front allows walk-in customers to choose from an assortment of cupcakes, scones, cookies, brewed coffee, specialty coffee drinks, amongst various other treats. The store space is a welcoming environment geared largely towards students, professors, faculty as well as other individuals within the Laurier community. Although the location is on the smaller side, the store provides enough space for students looking for a quiet spot to study. “We have lots of space, free WiFi, it’s a great place to come study and we’ve got all the coffee in the world,” said Alex Wurtele, owner of Sticks & Scones. “I think myself being young, I
definitely have sort of a step up in being able to know what students are going to want.” The location of the store, Wurtele explained, is ideal for the Laurier community as there are few other bakeries or places that offer fresh baked goods within the campus’
We have lots of space, free WiFi, it’s a great place to come study and we’ve got all the coffee in the world.
-Alex Wurtele, owner of Sticks and Scones
vicinity. “All of the trendy cafe’s are more in uptown, which isn’t far,” Wurtele said. “But it’s still a bit of a trek; especially for students who don’t have cars,” Since the bakery’s doors first opened, Wurtele said business has
been steady. With many students gone for the summer, the bakery’s daily traffic has decreased a small amount. However, at the same time Wurtele noted that their custom orders have been steadily increasing, balancing out the amount of business. “I’m sure in September things will pick back up again,” Wurtele said. The bakery’s catering service offers a wide variety of custom goods, including specialty cookies and cakes. Further adding a local touch, Sticks & Scones continuously strives to support local food suppliers and uses many local ingredients when preparing daily baked goods. For example, the bakery sources their bread from Elora Bread Trading Company, while their coffee is brought in from a company located in Baden. “We try to source as many of our ingredients as possible from local places. We use local food suppliers for our produce … all of our art inhouse is from local artists,” Wurtele said. “As much as possible, we try to promote [local].”
SAFINA HUSEIN/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
ARTS & LIFE • 13
WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2018 RESTAURANT
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Lana’s aims to please guests New lounge provides live music and great food for all MICHAEL OLIVERI ARTS & LIFE EDITOR
Nestled into the 220 King Street N. Plaza, surrounded by various other restaurants and cafes, is the home of a newly opened lounge and restaurant called Lana’s Lounge. “We opened to the public April 12 of this year,” said Marissa Mansz, co-owner of Lana’s Lounge. Both owners, Mansz and Shan, have a great deal of experience in other fields. “We previously had a financial practice, my husband was a financial advisor for the past 16 years and we just have always thought of getting back into the hospitality industry and we were just ready for a change,” Mansz said. “So we began doing our research the past couple of years and took the leap and here we are.” The lounge itself is a small, but very cute, space. One benefit of the smaller space is the more cozy and comfortable atmosphere that can be generated. Lana’s Lounge is split over two levels. The lower level is the lounge area with chairs and couches for people to mingle and chat while listening to live music. The upper floor is where the majority of seating is for the dining area, as well as the location of the bar and kitchen. Unfortunately, due to the restaurant being split over two levels, the space is smaller and does not leave a lot of room for many people at one time. Variety seems to be a priority
that makes its way into a number of different aspects of the restaurant, from the target audience to dietary needs. While Lana’s Lounge does not actively target students as their primary group of focus, the owners still welcome student guests. “We’re, you know, every age group, [and] all age groups are welcome to come out,” Mansz said.
We want to be able to accommodate everyone ... we aim to please.
-Marissa Mansz, co-owner, Lana’s Lounge
In terms of being accommodating of dietary restrictions, Lana’s Lounge seems to pride itself on being able to accommodate most needs. This includes having many gluten-free and vegetarian options, as well as the ability to make other dishes friendly to many different needs. “We want to be able to accommodate everyone … we aim to please,” Mansz said. When I went I was accompanied by a fellow Cordie. Perhaps the best part of Lana’s Lounge is the food. We started with the ‘Lana’s
Signature Spiral Pickle’ which was very tasty. The batter on the pickle was crunchy but light, and the aioli that came with it was the perfect pairing. We then shared their featured pizza, which for that day was tomato, basil and red onion. I think it’s fair to say we both really enjoyed it. A great surprise was learning that this yummy pizza was actually made with gluten-free dough, something that is hard to make taste like regular dough, but somehow Lana’s Lounge has done it. The experience we had with the food was very good and only contributed in a positive way to our overall experience with the restaurant. Besides great food, Lana’s Lounge also offers a great deal of live entertainment, specifically musicians and groups greatly ranging in type and focus. Local groups seem to be a focus for the owners. “Most of the musicians that we have in are local musicians and … they have to get our vibe,” Mansz said. The restaurant posts its live entertainment schedule on its website, so if you’re looking for anyone in particular, online is the place to do it. Overall I could sum up my thoughts on Lana’s Lounge like this: would I go to Lana’s Lounge all the time if I wanted to eat out? No, its prices and target audience are not what I would look for. Is it a great place to go as a special treat, or for a low-key date night? Absolutely.
ROLL (KAYTRANADA REMIX // THE INTERNET GRAVITY // RIVER TIBER MOTIVE USED TO BE THE MELODY // SANGO YOU’RE THE ONE // KAYTRANADA (FT. SYD) ENERGY // JEAN DEAUX BLIND MAN // XAVIER OMAR HALLUCINATIONS // DVSN SLEEPLESS // STEVEDAVE4LYFE SLEEPY BROWN // RAYANA JAY FALL IN LOVE // YUNO LIL THING // KNOX FORTUNE HEART // OMAR APOLLO BEIGE (SHY GIRLS REMIX) // YOKE LORE YAM YAM // NO VACATION VOW // TENDER FAKING BRIGHT // SASKI
LISTEN TO THIS PLAYLIST NOW AT RADIOLAURIER.COM SAFINA HUSEIN/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
14 •
ARTS & LIFE
WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2018
MUSIC
Musical inspiration and messages matter The use of themes, symbolism and inspiration in today’s music is important for growth of talent
KATHERINE WEBER ONLINE EDITOR
As a booming creative industry reaching multiple outlets, the music industry has followed a linear pattern of complexity. Good design is what it’s all about, and due to the rapid increase of vinyl, music is becoming as intricate as ever. Artists who put the time into concept designs of albums are the ones you should keep around in your bumping playlists. Keeping this in mind, it is by no means a required or written rule artists must abide to. However, with their influential powers it is inspiring when they use their music to speak towards a larger cause. With a full physical fold out vinyl allowing for ample space for graphic designs, it is the first way to help an audience understand what the artist stands for. Further, we are living in an age where art is as influential as ever. This has been proven to me personally through the power of music.
Musicians are everyday people who see a problem and act upon it by presenting their thoughts in a creative form which they thrive in. Even if music is not an art form of interest, by any means, it can still be inspiring through the hardwork and dedication of musicians. A recent example follows on J. Cole’s new album in which he criticizes pharmaceutical companies. In the album, the musician suggests that companies think they can fix children by feeding them drugs. After the popularized issue of the Xanax movement and many epidemic crises all over the world, I believe that this is an album the world critically needed. We are forced to condone the actions of those struggling with addiction instead of identifying the root problem; which, ultimately, is the pharmaceutical companies. On Cole’s album cover and promotional items, he is presented as a guardian who is protecting children suffering the effects of pharmaceutical companies. An even more recent example is the live stream performed by A$AP Rocky for his upcoming album Testing on the night of May 20. Many months prior to this stream, when Rocky was devoting much of his time to A$AP Mob Too Cozy Vol 2 album, his social media
underwent a few notable changes. All photos were deleted from his meticulous theme and his display picture was changed to a yellow and black testing area illustration. During this stream it was announced that the album was completed. His attempt to abide by his album theme of ‘testing’ was effortlessly presented. Placing him within an enclosed glass case he was forced to perform a series of tasks by two individuals dressed in lab coats. The main argument of his presentation was the fact that throughout his ups and downs in his life a musician, he is always regularly monitored by society to continuously produce new material. He was transformed into a visual science experiment, hence the album name Testing. I am in no way condoning that the music is better on conceptually forward albums. I am just allotting to the fact that many musicians’ artistic abilities are much higher and they have a much more advanced way of creatively thinking. The game is changing for all musical artists. It is simply not enough to just produce music. With this in mind, I believe that moving forward, artists are going to be held to a much higher
KASHYAP PATEL/GRAPHICS EDITOR
standard. Of course, I have songs and albums I listen to where I do not pay attention to the concept, but it is important to give it a quick thought because every album has a purpose. Each one of those artists you
listen to wakes up in the morning and is motivated to make something great. Tuning into my love of music over the past year, I have found that the most moving concept albums have motivated me to be creatively forward with what I love.
FOOD
Nick and Taylor take you to flavourtown
‘Nick and Taylor make a food show’ brings the best of KW’s restaurant and food scene home to us MICHAEL OLIVERI ARTS & LIFE EDITOR
If you were to ask someone what the Kitchener-Waterloo region is known for, what would you say? Some of the most popular answers would be Google or the tech industry; many others might struggle to think of an answer at all, but what about food? A duo of local individuals are attempting to bring awareness to the great food culture that this region has to offer. Nick and Taylor make a food show is a new series available online that follows Taylor Jackson — who according to the show “doesn’t cook” — and Nick Benninger — who is the chef and owner of four restaurants in KW, including Marbles, Taco Farm, Uptown 21 and Harmony Lunch — as they go on many different food related adventures. If you are a foodie like me, this show is worth watching. It is endlessly entertaining, and perhaps more importantly, it brings coverage and attention to local eateries that might be your favourite or a new spot that you’ve never tried before. The show itself came from the development of a one-off episode one and had a positive reception.
“The response was just really strong and people seemed to really dig it so we thought that there was a need for such a thing; a locally made food show. So we decided to give it a try and we started recording,” Benninger said.
I think any help we can give small businesses like my own is just good work
TIMOTHY MUZA/PHOTOGRAPHER -Nick Benninger, co-host, Nick and Taylor make a food show
The motivation for continuing in the development of the show extends into the realm of developing KW pride. “We kind of wanted to just buff their own tires a little bit and give folks locally a better reason to go out and eat and you know just supporting independent restaurants,” Benninger said. “I think any help we can give small businesses like my own is
just good work.” This regional and local focus is part of what makes Nick and Taylor make a food show so great to watch. Not just the desire to bring attention to independent places, but that these places are so close to us. Often food shows can bring the viewer all over the country and these cities are often not places we always go to; but here, these are places we may see on our way to work that we have wondered about. The show has gone to and has seen many of the best food places that our region has to offer, it
would seem that the region’s food scene has grown greatly. “I think it’s a double edged sword … yes the food scene has grown a lot and it’s kind of grown into more of what a big city might want in a food scene … but I think it’s important that we don’t forget about the places that sort of built the foundations and they’re what is going to make our food scenes sustainable,” Benninger said. It’s easy to see the development in KW’s food scene as something only started recently but that wouldn’t be an entirely correct view. “To say that the food scene in
KW is ‘finally’ growing or anything like that, that’ll offend me and it’ll offend people that have been here for a long time,” Benninger said. What’s great about a show like Nick and Taylor make a food show is that it functions as entertainment while also bringing attention to questions surrounding the local food scene. And don’t worry they’re already working on a season two and have no plans for stopping. “We could theoretically go on forever and really never run out of great spots in KW to visit, or great events or great things,” Benninger said.
• 15
WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2018
Editorial
OPINION EDITOR EMILY WAITSON opinion@thecord.ca
Editor’s Note: May 30 stemming from certain events, it seems that a collective community working together to stand up for what’s right has surfaced. Just last month, I attended a traditional Indigenous Pipe Ceremony where, in light of opposing, problematic views regarding Indigenization on post-secondary campuses were being discussed on the other side of campus, a community of people came together and, as a result, were able to create a positive environment for those in attendance. Witnessing the ceremony was a clear indicator that creating spaces where groups, like the Indigenous community, can celebrate their identities and honour their traditions further reiterated to me how positive change can be created when people use valuable avenues of standing up for what they believe in. However, making this positive change can only work if individuals choosing to stand up and voice their opinions use methods of publicizing their beliefs that are of value. Last fall, The Cord was met with an unfortunate incident involving hundreds, if not thousands, of copies of our paper being torn and ripped up by an individual(s). As a result, several of our major stands on campus were found in shreds; a pile of these shreds were even delivered to our office doorstep by the individual once they were finished. Going forward, I hope every one of our readers — those that agree and disagree with my decisions as Editor in Chief — choose a valuable outlet to discuss their thoughts, provide feedback and respond to stories to which you may disagree. For example, we always accept Letters to the Editor, opinion columns and general comments and thoughts through our Dear Life section. Our campus and Laurier as a whole is at a point where a lot of positive change could stem from what’s occurring; it’s my hope for this year that The Cord is able to play a role in continuing to inform our readers and making the necessary change.
SAFINA HUSEIN EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
As The Cord gears up for a new year, I can’t help but feel both reflective and excited for the upcoming year. Looking back at this year and thinking about how some of the campus controversy began and developed throughout the winter term, as a student and reporter, it still feels surreal, in a way, that the free speech controversy has grown to this magnitude. As the end of said campus controversy is likely not in sight for the upcoming year, I can’t help but think about how far the contention will continue to develop. As a result, it is my main goal at The Cord to ensure, as always, that we provide readers with coverage that is reliable, consistent and objective. It can be easy to turn away and stay in your own bubble amongst controversy — however, I believe it is crucial to stay informed and be fully aware of what is taking place around you and on our campus. In addition to staying informed, as a member of the the Laurier community, I feel it is even more important to take a stance and to stick up for what you believe is right. The controversy that has enveloped our campus provides all of us with an opportunity — a chance to speak up, take action and make a positive change. This past year I have seen the impact that one student can make when faced with the opportunity to stand up for what they believe in. For example, as a reporter, I’ve witnessed dozens of students who have dedicated themselves to protesting and standing up for the marginalized communities on campus. I’ve seen these same students work to create spaces on campus that are safe, inclusive and welcoming in light of the controversy at hand. Despite the controversy and, at times, the feeling of unease
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KASHYAP PATEL/GRAPHICS EDITOR
Finding the right kind of support MADELINE MCINNIS FEATURES EDITOR
The general consensus with all of my peers, as well as myself, is that third year really sucked. Not to scare you too much, but whoever said that the jump from first to second year was the worst was a serious liar and it’s definitely way harder going from second to third year. Maybe it was the expectations we’d built up over the years, or maybe it was the new expectations placed on us in the transition, but for many of us, it was really difficult. If last year taught me anything, it’s that you need people around you that love you and support you unconditionally if you’re going to make it through in one piece. Going on exchange in second semester, I was both lonely and alone. I didn’t “click” with anyone the way that everyone seems to from their stories and pictures, and I did most things independently. I had some great acquaintances, sure, but I’m not one to make friends out of convenience, so I would rather spend time alone than with people I don’t absolutely enjoy the company of. On top of my mental health
being so bad from the stresses of the previous semester, it was hard being on my own virtually all the time. Being in a new place is scary, we all know that, but doing it alone is even worse. It was my friends from Laurier that were there for me through everything. I’d stay up to ungodly hours of the morning due to the different timezones because we were messaging or Skyping about the latest drama or the stresses of work. When I realized how alone I would be without them, I could only imagine what school must be like for those without a strong friend foundation. I can’t imagine what my time abroad would have been like without the connections I already had at home. This year I learned that a lot of the time, the people who don’t support you and your dreams won’t tell you that outright. Being outwardly mean takes some guts, and people would rather just be passive than actually face what they think about you. That leaves it pretty ambiguous, especially to those of us with mental health issues, who actually hates us and who is just minding their business. I think that answer comes in what happens when you’re feeling low. Those who don’t want you around won’t make an effort to stay in your life.
Those who do will make every effort to show you that you’re valued. Hang onto those people. They’re not your friends out of convenience, they’re the ones who actually care. My goal for this upcoming year is to make sure that the people around me know that I care. Whether it’s my best friend going through a breakup or the kid who sits alone in that one obscure
I can’t imagine what my time abroad would have been like without the connections I already had at home.
national cinema class, I want you to know that you’re wanted and welcome. Being in a new place, whether physically or emotionally, is hard. It’s the people around you that make it home. Whatever you’re struggling with, find the people who care and make sure you care about them more than you think it’s necessary. Heaven knows, we all need the support.
16 •
Opinion
WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2018 OPINION EDITOR EMILY WAITSON opinion@thecord.ca
Casting your vote in this election shouldn’t be a debate EMILY WAITSON OPINION EDITOR
With the provincial election right around the corner, the fate of our province and its leadership will be placed in the hands of the Ontarians who actually show up to the voting polls on June 7 — and that can be a daunting thought. According to the Toronto Star, Ontario’s election turnouts are at an all time low — with our province being the lowest in Canada both federally and provincially. In 2011, only 48 per cent of Ontarians voted and in 2014, a disheartening 51 per cent of people cast their vote during the election. One in three people between the ages of 18 to 24 claimed they even bothered to vote in the 2014 election, highlighting a fundamental problem that occurs during election season — why aren’t young people voting in the first place? I think it’s pretty much inexcusable to not vote if you are legally able to and aren’t faced with any legitimate restrictions that prevent you from doing so. If laziness and an apathetic attitude are the only things that stand in the way of
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you and a voting booth, then you really have no right to criticize the policies, changes and overall state of our provincial government. There is a definite air of entitlement that can accompany younger people when it comes to voting and it’s pretty pathetic when university students are in an age demographic that should care a hell of a lot more about the state of our politics than statistics currently say we do. And the fact is, no matter who is elected, that individual will make an impact in some way, shape or form on the key aspects of everyday living that affect us directly in this province. Healthcare, taxes,
hydro, school tuition — the list goes on and on and these are the buzzwords that are brought up in nearly every political platform. Each candidate has a vision in mind for what they want Ontario to be and it is up to us to help the right person make that happen. Regardless of your party affiliation, you should care about who gets elected this June. It shouldn’t be too much of a drawn out chore to find a place to cast your vote and support whoever you think is the best choice in this election. If you have absolutely no idea who you support in the first place, then do everyone a favour and actually educate yourself
on the parties and their platforms. Don’t rely on your loudmouth uncle or arguments in Facebook comment sections to dictate who you should vote for. Make Google your friend and use it to research the details of each platform and watch debates between the candidates online. You can even take a political party quiz online to show which party matches your stances on the topics and issues you feel most strongly about. You can’t really complain and bemoan the state of our government for its failings when you haven’t taken the (very little) time to try and make a possible change by voting. Improvements to things
such as fundamental services likely won’t occur if all you do is unload your frustrations about the university’s lacking mental health care onto Spotted at Laurier and call it a day. Important issues that influence students significantly are being tackled and debated by a group of vastly different political leaders. It is up to us to do our part for the place we call home. We have the privilege of being able to vote in this country and in this province, so we should be actively using it. If my friend who’s studying abroad can vote from England, you can too. Even if you don’t think that voting matters, it does. There is a reason why our neighbours in the South have Donald Trump as president and look how well that’s working out for them. Although the Ontario election doesn’t seem like it will have a large impact on things in the long run, it most certainly will — just take a look at all of the day to day aspects of living that are affected by provincial politics. Make sure you show up to a poll this June and prove the statistics that paint millennials as careless airheads wrong. We are capable of far better and the key to getting there rests in our commitment to vote.
Victim blaming is not acceptable MADELINE MCINNIS FEATURES EDITOR
“Can you imagine what would have happened if those girls had only given those guys a chance?” Speaking in regard to the recent Santa Fe school shooting and the van attack in Toronto, a female co-worker of my friend asked her this question while they were on a shift together. Both cases are allegedly connected to the respective attackers being rejected by women and then taking that rejection out on civilians in an act of terror. These acts are senseless and there is no point in trying to understand them, regardless of how much we hate not having the answers. Imagining a world where these attacks didn’t happen is a logical response, but justifying away their actions isn’t going to help. Victim shaming is more than just saying that women should just cover up or only go outside in daylight hours. It’s placing responsibility for the crimes of her assaulter on her own decisions — something she never consented to or wanted in the first place. If Shana Fisher, one of the victims of the Santa Fe shooting,
really did reject the shooter days before the attack, she made the right decision. If a boy can kill 10 people for a no, imagine her trying to say no to sex. Imagine her in a relationship with someone like that — someone who can’t take a no. It is not your responsibility to be a martyr for the rage of people who are out of control. You do not have to put yourself in a dangerous situation for fear of it hurting others. The blame is not on the women. It is completely on the men who decided that their pride was worth more than the lives of the women around them. Rejection is a natural part of life and a response is to be upset about it and move on, not to kill dozens of innocent people. This mentality is far more common than these situations. On May 10, As/Is, a publication under Buzzfeed, published a video of Leah Juliett explaining their story with revenge porn. Juliett is the founder and executive director of the March Against Revenge Porn and used their experience to motivate and advocate for others. One aspect of Juliett’s story that really stuck with me was when they described opening up their laptop to see the mugshot of the man who had posted the pictures online, who had been accused of sexually assaulting a minor.
In that moment, Juliett believed that they could have saved this minor if they had only spoken up. Though Juliett made this into such a positive action by starting her organization, no one should ever hold that guilt in themselves. Could reporting this boy back when he posted the revenge porn have saved this minor from sexual assault? Maybe. Would it have made any difference to the underlying problems with this boy and how he sees women? No. Juliett was a victim of a man’s pride and his choice to hold his own wants over women’s rights to live and breathe safely, the same as Fisher and all the victims in the highly publicized attacks. It is no victim’s responsibility to speak or act on their trauma, nor is it their responsibility to stop that trauma from happening to others. Whether it’s Harvey Weinstein, the Santa Fe shooter or the ex who spread your private pictures, the victims are not — are never — to blame. That’s the entire point, otherwise they wouldn’t be in those situations in the first place. Do not let anyone — especially people who have never been in your situation — tell you what the proper way to react is. If you want the situation to motivate you to help others in similar situations, that’s powerful. But so is simply continuing despite the trauma inflicted on you.
SADMAN SAKIB RAHMAN/CREATIVE DIRECTOR
OPINION • 17
WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2018 is not an example of cultural appropriation as Catholicism is considered to be a religious majority, and therefore they are not
Historically speaking, the Catholic Church has done quite a bit to opress actual marginalized groups.
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Marginalization at the Met Gala? ALYSSA DI SABATINO OPINION COLUMNIST
The Met Gala is an annual fundraising event, with all of the proceeds benefiting the Costume Institute of The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. This year’s Met Gala theme has sparked a lot of controversy over it’s “Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination” theme, with critics saying it is an example of cultural appropriation. Let’s be clear on what cultural appropriation really is — because the Met Gala is not an example of it.
Cultural appropriation, by definition, is when someone from the majority group uses a cultural element of a marginalized group without permission and claims it as their own. This usually means that the group appropriating the culture has little respect or knowledge about said culture. I daresay that those who were outraged over the Catholicism theme were doing so in an attempt to silence marginalized groups who speak out against legitimate appropriation. The use of the term cultural appropriation cannot be considered
correct in this context because in order for cultural appropriation to occur, there needs to be an unequal power dynamic that favours the appropriator. Historically speaking, the Catholic Church has done quite a bit to oppress actual marginalized groups. Catholicism and Christianity were the main religions of European colonial powers and they were committed to converting their subjects of conquest to their beliefs. In North America specifically, they prohibited Indigenous traditions and beliefs. By this definition, the Met Gala
marginalized. If anything, the 2018 Met Gala is an example of cultural appreciation, not appropriation. This year’s Met Gala was designed to honour and acknowledge the Catholic church’s visual aesthetic. The Met Gala paying homage to the Catholic church is no different from the Catholic and Christian symbolism that for centuries has been conveyed in popularized forms of art, literature and music. The Met Gala attendees pulled symbols from the repertoire of Catholicism, heralding images such as the Sistine Chapel or stained glass windows as art. Andrew Bolton, head curator for the Costume Institute told New York Times that the exhibit focuses on the “the Catholic imagination and the way it has engaged artists and designers and shaped their approach to creativity.” In fact, the chairs of the gala took great effort to earn the Vatican’s blessing with the theme this year. And not only did the Vatican approve of the theme, but they also donated over 40 artifacts to the Costume Institute’s exhibit. The exhibit will also include designer brands such as Dolce & Gabbana and Versace, who are
both known for their usage of religious symbolism in their designs. Cardinal Dolan of the American Catholic church even offered his support to singer Rihanna, joking that the papal tiara that she adorned for the gala was borrowed from his collection of mitres, traditionally worn by bishops of the church. The Met Gala theme this year may not be considered appropriation, but that isn’t to say that they haven’t had their share of controversies in the past. The most recent example of appropriation at the Met Gala is the 2015 theme “China: Through the Looking Glass.” Luckily, most attendees that year were reported to have dressed appropriately for the event by avoiding appropriation, but past themes such as the 1994 “Orientalism: Visions of the East in western dress” reflects poorly on
And not only did the Vatican approve of the theme, but they also donated over 40 artifacts to the Costume Institute’s exhibit.
the Institute. The “Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination” is an example of the Met Gala respecting and honouring a religious majority. They credit and celebrate the Catholic church, which I hope they can continue to do for future Gala themes. At the end of the day though, it would be useless to say that the Gala is about paying homage to a culture more than it is about promoting the exhibit itself.
Pulling gender out from under the rug, thread by thread SARAH TYLER VIDEO EDITOR
The systematic gendering of our world is apparent in our daily lives and own living spaces. There are those who strive to deconstruct the binary and those who reinforce it. When looking for a new rug for my bedroom, I was searching for a simple grey and white area rug on Wayfair.ca. I went through the specifications of each rug and noticed a category for gender. This was mixed in with other specifications like material, primary colour and even if it was stain resistant or not. There were rugs listed as girl, boy or neutral. What made these rugs so specific to a certain gender? I question what biology has to do with room décor. As expected in a North American context, the so-called boy rugs were often cool-toned, dark, featured animal prints and geometric, whereas the
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girl rugs were predominantly floral, colourful, often warm-toned and featured birds and butterflies. These themes are taken directly from the male and female expectations in society. Men are supposed to be strong, powerful, smart and not light as a feather and nurturing. One theme in particular that I think is important to consider is the use of educational rugs in playrooms and bedrooms for children. When searching for educational rugs under the boy category on the Wayfair site there were a whopping 187 results. For girls, there were only 26
results and these rugs primarily focused on numbers, animals and the alphabet. When you look at the boys’ rugs there were maps, multiplication tables, solar systems and my favourite, dinosaurs. Of course, you can buy whichever rug you wish, but when looking for a rug for your little girl you might only go to those search settings and not even be aware of the other options you are missing. Maybe your son loves flowers and your daughter loves math, but they will not see their options in the given categories. The neutral educational category has rugs that are for girls and
boys and additionally have music and more language and religious options. All of the rugs should be neutral and made for any child who finds them captivating, comfortable and fun for their room. The assumptions on what a boy versus a girl likes are made for you. Is it okay if a girl wants to have a periodic table of elements rug? Definitely, but the categorization within these rugs gives a restriction on what is deemed to be acceptable. They have set a standard that can make young children feel like they must fit into a certain mold
to be accepted. These divisions within décor can be discouraging for designers and decorators alike because of the limitations within the traditions of home decorating. A designer may want to create a purple rug with cars on it, but then where does the rug get placed on the website? It should be advertised as an option for every buyer. Room décor should be a way for someone to fully express who they are and their creativity. The world can be a tough place full of expectations and the gender scripts creep into our private spaces at home too. One’s own uniqueness should start from square one and if your room does not reflect who you are and is not filled with things you like, then it is uncomfortable to be yourself in your own home. These commodities shape us into who we present to the world and I think the construction of gender should never be a way to classify home décor. It limits how personal our own living spaces can be, and ultimately the way we think about ourselves and other people.
18 •
WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2018
Sports
SPORTS EDITOR PRANAV DESAI sports@thecord.ca
FOOTBALL
Golden Hawks represented at 2018 CFL draft Godfrey Onyeka, Isaiah Guzylak-Messam and Rashari Henry get ready to compete with the pros DANIEL JOHNSON STAFF WRITER
In this year’s Canadian Football League (CFL) draft, three Laurier Golden Hawks were selected: Godfrey Onyeka, Isaiah Guzylak-Messam and Rashari Henry. Having one player from Laurier drafted is an achievement, having three drafted is outstanding. This is the second year in a row where three players have been drafted from the Hawk team. The Hawks once again made it to the Yates Cup final this past year and although they weren’t able to repeat as OUA champions, having three players drafted into the CFL is a testament to the amazing season they had. Onyeka was the highest Golden Hawk selected as the Edmonton Eskimos took him tenth overall in the second round. This doesn’t come as a surprise as Onyeka was arguably the best player on an excellent Hawks defence this past year. Onyeka was recognized as an OUA First Team All-Star and he was expected to get selected towards the top of the draft. Isaiah Guzylak-Messam and Rashari Henry also had very impressive seasons with the Hawks and their outstanding performances were why they were selected
in the fourth and sixth round respectively. Henry discussed what makes the Hawks football program so successful. “It just shows how well they develop players and what pros are looking for. I know they’re always preaching what’s expected at the next level,” Henry said, regarding this draft class.
It just shows how well they develop players ... I know they’re always preaching what’s expected at the next level. -Rashari Henry, former Wilfrid Laurier football player
“They’re kind of getting you ready for this moment and it’s definitely a great honour to continue the tradition, and show that all that hard work that coaches put in that’s as well paying off, and hopefully you can have the same success at the professional level,” he added.
FILE PHOTO/TANZEEL SAYANI
Former Wilfrid Laurier defensive back Godfrey Onyeka
FILE PHOTO/TANZEEL SAYANI
Former Laurier defensive back Isaiah Guzylak-Messam
Guzylak-Messam and Henry were both selected to the BC Lions. Although they play different positions, both play on the defensive side of the ball. “But being out here with Isaiah has been really good, just having someone who I’m familiar with that I’m comfortable with that I can kind of go through the whole process together and learn from each other, give each other pointers and just kind of progress together,” Henry said. Having Guzylak-Messam and Henry on the same defence was a huge advantage for the Hawks this year because of their combined abilities to constantly come up with big plays. They will now look to continue their camaraderie at the professional level. Familiarity with each other will serve them well as they adjust into their new roles on the BC Lions defence. The draft is over now and, with it, all the uncertainty that accompanies it. All that is left now for those who were selected is to work hard to contribute as much as possible to the club that gave them their first shot at the professional game. “Now it’s just about progressing every day. I think once you get
here, you kind of have to adjust from university to professional. And that’s not only the physicality of it — it’s the mental aspect, so they demand a lot more of you and mistakes aren’t very tolerable, so you got to be on top of your game mentally and physically,” Henry said, on his post draft mindset. Henry will be looking to contribute to the BC Lions Football Club and to do this he aims to bring physicality and intelligence to the table.
Now it’s just about progressing every day. I think once you get here, you kind of have to adjust from university to professional. -Rashari Henry, former Wilfrid Laurier football player
“I’d say I definitely bring physicality and just my mental aspect I think I am a smart player. I can take criticism and direction very well … I give it my all every time.
So that's the type of player I think I am and what I bring to BC Lions,” Henry said. Henry was always a problem for opposing offensive lines during his time with the Hawks due to his never say die attitude and that is a trait that cannot be taught. Now that the draft process is over, Henry will benefit from his experience. Now armed with hindsight, he is in a position to give some advice for future Golden Hawk draft hopefuls. “I would say you definitely want to have everything laid out in front of you; whether it’s who you’re going to train with, where you’re going to eat or what teams are looking for. Sometimes you switch positions once you get to professional level, so it’s good to ask around … especially people that are in the league already,” Henry said. “Ask around and get as much information as you can and prepare yourself as much as possible. Because it is a very big process and without proper preparation you’re kind of at a disadvantage, so I’d say prepare, prepare, prepare.” The Cord reached out to Godfrey Onyeka and Isaiah Guzylak-Messam but did not receive a response at the time of publishing
SPORTS • 19
WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2018 WORKOUT
SPORTS IN BRIEF Kitchener Rangers player deals with racism on the ice
SAFINA HUSEIN/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Cord Picks: Best home workout Recommendations for staying fit at home without buying a gym membership Using Apps as a Guide: Emily Waitson/Opinion Editor YouTube videos and phone apps have been my go-to sources for home workouts ever since I stumbled into the overwhelming world of fitness. Even though I’ve lost a considerable amount of weight since high school, I still find it difficult to stick to a consistent gym routine. Home workouts have become a necessity for me when my otherwise lazy and unmotivated self would rather binge watch Netflix. There’s less excuses when my workout can take place in my bedroom using a yoga mat, some free weights and a semi-positive attitude. I follow the SWEAT app created by Australian trainer Kayla Itsines, which focuses on a series of body weight exercises that take minimal time to do. I’m also a huge fan of Yoga with Adriene, who serenely guides viewers through various yoga and meditation routines. Jillian Michaels and the YouTube channel Blogilates are great too — the first one yells at you when you need it and the second one is so chipper and peppy that you feel compelled to break a sweat with her.
Mindfulness and Meditation: Margaret Russell/Lead Reporter Submerging yourself in the student lifestyle means one of several clichés: money is tight. However you may choose to penny-pinch it’s bound to depend on your priorities and realistically, not all of us are willing to spend $40 plus monthly on a gym membership. This is where home workouts are essential for keeping our minds and bodies sound while enduring the harsh conditions of three hour lectures in Arts 1E1. This is why I turn to yoga, a simple and cost-effective way to tend to those aches and relieve stress. All you need is a yoga mat and a little bit of space for your warrior pose. As well, YouTube videos are very helpful in structuring your practice without paying for a class. I made a commitment in my first year to do at least 15 minutes of stretching and/or mindfulness meditation every morning before I head out and the difference has been life-changing.
Plank Variations: Garrison Oosterhof It’s a given that running is a great way to exercise your heart and burn some calories. When I can, I like to do a mix of stretches and core training while my heart rate is up after a run. Your muscles being warm from the run is important in helping prevent injury while performing these static stretches. I like to go through a cycle of three plank positions for a more well-rounded core training than simply crunches or sit ups. First I do front plank which requires you to keep your body off the ground, with your weight in your elbows and toes and remaining as straight as a plank of wood (don’t let your back dip down to the floor). Then switch to left and right side plank where you lay on your side with your elbows beneath your shoulder then stack your feet and try to keep your hips in line with your body while you lift them as far off the ground as you can. I try to do at least 30 seconds of each position and go through the cycle three times.
Office Chair Yoga: Jazzmine Gabert/Social Media Coordinator One of the best activities you can try at home (or in the office) is chair yoga. Yes, as crazy as it sounds, it’s a real thing! Small exercises like these can be done in your chair or on your bed and can help reduce stress. First, try a rising sun salute. As you inhale, raise your arms slowly. When you exhale, bring your arms to the side. Next inhale, bend forward and bring your arms to the ground. Exhale and fold your arms on the ground. Inhale and resume resting position. You can also try the “wrists” exercise. Put your arms out straight in front of you, your fingers up, palms away for four breaths. Repeat these steps with palms down. For more information, you can visit the yoga studio that created these exercises “From the Heart Yoga” in Waterdown.
Cardio, Strength and Core: Pranav Desai/Sports Editor I learned the best home workout in grade seven gym class and it’s something that I’ll always remember throughout my life. The workout is relatively quick and effective. It is also the perfect combination of cardio, strength and core training. You begin with 20 jumping jacks to get your heart rate going. You follow that up with 20 pushups and squats. After this, I like to take a two-minute break before beginning the core exercises which include: 15 leg raises, 15 sit-ups and 15 crunches Although this may seem like a lot to do at first, you can always begin with lower quantities before you work your way up to the higher numbers. After you are done with the exercises, you finish off the workout with 10 minutes of stretching. This workout does not only help me feel better physically, but it also relieves a lot of mental stress, especially during exam season.
Kitchener Rangers winger Givani Smith was suspended for the Rangers’ final two games of the season at the beginning of May due to an obscene gesture made by the Toronto native in a game against the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds. Smith, who is one of the few black players in the Ontario Hockey League, received derogatory racial abuses which led to him flashing his middle finger at the Greyhounds’ bench. Things got worse for Smith after the incident as he was on the receiving end of a variety of racial comments, abuses and threats over social media. Smith had to be escorted to the Essar Centre in Sault Ste. Marie from the Soo hotel to watch the Rangers’ final game of the season due to safety concerns. During the regular season, there was an attempt from a fan to confront Smith in the Rangers locker room. The Rangers traded for Smith, who is a prospect for the Detroit Red Wings, from the Guelph Storm at the OHL trade deadline. Smith’s family released the following statement last week regarding the matter. “Givani (Smith) is incredibly humbled by the support received ... at this time, Givani respectfully asks for privacy, as he and his family wish to move-on from the incident. His focus is now on being a Detroit Red Wing.
Jamal Murray wins K-W Athlete of the Year Emerging NBA star Jamal Murray, who currently plays for the Denver Nuggets, was recently awarded with Kitchener-Waterloo Athlete of the year for 2017. Murray was nominated for this award for the third consecutive year, eventually beating out 11 other nominees including former Laurier soccer star, Alyssa Lagonia. Murray went to the Grand River Collegiate high school in Kitchener before transferring to Orangeville Prep. After spending one year with Kentucky Wildcats in the NCAA, the six-foot-four guard was selected by the Nuggets with the seventh overall pick in the 2016 NBA draft. Murray has shown that he belongs in the NBA as he started 80 out of the 82 games for the Nuggets in his second season, averaging 16.7 points per game in 31.7 minutes per game. He played a major role in what was a relatively successful season for the Nuggets, narrowly missing out on the NBA playoffs. Compiled by: Pranav Desai
20 • SPORTS
WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2018
WOMEN’S HOCKEY
Kelly Paton unveiled as new Golden Hawks head coach ABDULHAMID IBRAHIM LEAD SPORTS REPORTER
A new era has dawned upon us for Wilfrid Laurier University’s women’s hockey. Kelly Paton will be the Golden Hawks’ new head coach and manager of women’s hockey operations taking over as the successor to Rick Osborne, who held the position for 15 years. Despite the struggles of the last two years, having finished last in the OUA both seasons, Paton will still have big shoes to fill considering the success Osborne had had in the 13 years prior to the last two. Osborne was a five-time OUA coach of the year in addition to winning nine OUA titles and one CIS title. Paton, regardless of this, is quite confident in her ability to bring Laurier women’s hockey back to its ways. “Early on as a coach, I’ve been able to have success with the teams that I’m leading. But I do think I’m continuing to grow as a coach as well. I like to think I’m pretty confident. I’m going to make some positive changes at Laurier that hopefully are going to lead to success both on and off the ice,” Paton said. Paton has reason to be confident as she comes in quite accomplished as a former player and coach. After a decorated career at the University of New Hampshire from 2006 to 2010, being a finalist for the Patty Kazmaier Memorial Award presented to the top Division I player in the nation, a first-team All-American, a Hockey East first team all-star along with winning New England player of the
right now. I think we have a great opportunity in the summer over the next three months to build relationships and for me building a staff that’s going to support me and my vision,” she said.
We’re going to try and work back to achieving excellence and having success, like the year’s they’ve had in the past. -Kelly Paton, incoming Wilfrid Laurier women’s head coach
some shifts in culture and maybe just some of the principles around the game that the girls are really going to have to absorb and apply and learn early on so we can have positive change for next season,” she added. A new coach, especially one that’s had success, taking over a struggling program comes with expectations. One thing Paton knows; things don’t change overnight. “Well there’s a lot of unknowns
“For the players as well, making a commitment of working hard over the course of the summer and building their strength and conditioning so that when we all get together as a group in September, we’re in a good spot, we can define some pretty clear expectations based on what our goals are as a group.” While expectations might not be clear for the season as of yet, the expectations for the players is clear. “For me, we just want the girls to come in with an open mind, positive outlook on the potential that we could grow into but at the same time, just understanding that it is going to be a process and things aren’t going to change overnight and there’s going to be a lot of investment in effort especially but overall day-to-day habits that are going to contribute to the success that we potentially will attain this year.”
Golden Hawk Scholarship Fund and Athletic and Recreation department enhancements. “It’s important,” Cox said, of the golf classic. “We use the money for our balls and bags and what not.” “Being a golf team, we’re not like a football team that gets a lot of money from the school funding wise. So the money that we raise
helps a lot.” The cost to enter is $400 per person, which includes dinner and 18 holes of golf. “It’s good to socialize, play some golf and have a nice dinner afterwards.” More information on how to register for the Golf Classic can be found on the Laurier Athletics website.
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year and Hockey East co-player of the year, all in 2010. In terms of her U-Sports experience as a coach, she comes in having led the Western Mustangs the last two seasons putting together a 39-19 record, regular season and playoffs combined, in addition to winning the OUA title and taking silver in the U-Sports national title game. Her vision for this program longterm happens to be exactly what she has accomplished before.
“We’re going to try and work back to achieving excellence and having success, like the years that they’ve had in the past. You know, working back to provincial championships so that once you can establish that, then moving forward and looking to try and compete nationally as well,” Paton stated. “It’s going to be a process over time that’s going to allow us to build back up to being where we want to be from a competitive standpoint but there’s going to be
GOLF
Hawks look to take the next step JOSEPH DEFILIPPIS STAFF WRITER
The Wilfrid Laurier University Golf team, one of the mixed varsity teams at the university, is heading to the Canadian University/College Championship in British Columbia on May 29. This tournament, also known as “Nationals,” attracts the top collegiate golfers from all over Canada. The men’s portion of the Golden Hawk team is coming off one of the most successful seasons in school history, highlighted by a silver medal finish at Nationals, where the team’s previous best placement was fifth back in 2015. On the women’s side, the team had an up and down 2017 season, failing to reach the podium in any of the tournament’s during the year, with a fourth place finish at the Guelph Invitational being the team’s best result. Due to these results, the women’s team unfortunately were not able to qualify for this year’s nationals. Current men’s team member Andrew Cox talked about the team’s goals and expectations for
the upcoming Nationals tournament. “Last year we played well. It was really close, kind of heartbreaking when we lost, as we did lose by only two shots over the four-day span,” he said. “We have a little bit of a different team going [this year], so I think a top three finish would be really well. But obviously
Being a golf team, we’re not like a football team that get a lot of money from the school funding wise.
-Andrew Cox, men’s golf
you want to go there and win it.” Along with the silver medal at Nationals last year, the men’s team also picked up another silver medal at the Toronto Invitational and missed out on the podium by only
two strokes at the OUA Championship. At those OUA Championships, Laurier golfer Austin Ryan earned an individual bronze medal, marking the second consecutive year that he reached the podium at the event. Cox, who himself played a key role in both of the team’s silver medal finishes last year, spoke about his own personal goals for the season. “I haven’t individually won a tournament, I’ve been close a couple times, so that would be cool, to get that individual win.” Looking into September when the season starts back up again, Cox mentioned that “OUA’s would be a good tournament to win. We’ve lost to Waterloo and Western the last couple of years, so it would be cool to be able to beat those schools.” Additionally, the Laurier golf team is proud to host the annual Laurier Golf Classic, which runs this year on June 18 at Whistle Bear Golf Club in Cambridge. This tournament, which is being hosted for the twenty-first time, is open to golfers of all skill levels, with proceeds from the day going to the Student Horizon Fund, the
KASHYAP PATEL/GRAPHICS EDITOR