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Welcome Back

Jan 5, 2017

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Your University of Saskatchewan student newspaper since 1912.

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NEWS IN 2016

HUSKIE HIGHLIGHTS

KEEPING RESOLUTIONS

PUBLIC BOOZE

NEWS

SPORTS

CULTURE

OPINIONS

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USURJ: Exemplifying undergraduate research excellence JALINE BROQUEZA Research journals are one of the ways to share discoveries around the world, and the University of Saskatchewan’s Undergraduate Research Journal continues to publish articles from different disciplines, displaying undergraduate students’ academic achievement and excellence in research.

USURJ is an online academic journal that

The multidisciplinary undergraduate research journal was first proposed in 2012 by U of S undergraduate students from different disciplines. The proposal was supported by the Office of the Vice-President Research and the University Learning Centre.

The journal’s first issue was published in 2014.

Mariam Goubran, a fourth-year microbiology and immunology student and USURJ’s health scienc-

probably the main reason I wanted to work with USURJ. Undergraduate students do amazing research at the U of S, and the journal offers an opportunity to showcase their work,” Goubran said, in an email to the Sheaf.

Dan Surkan, an upperyear student pursuing two degrees in regional and urban planning and civil engineering, published a paper through USURJ in spring 2016 entitled “The Effectiveness of Saskatoon's

"USURJ encourages students to become better writers, communicators and professionals. It is an enlightening experience to craft your work into a format that is easily accessible to the broader population. Publishing your work is worth it for this experience alone."

- Dan Surkan, upper-year student in regional and urban planning and civil engineering

Jeremy Britz / Photo Editor USURJ highlights student research.

features original research by U of S undergraduates and presents multidisciplinary collections of articles that are reviewed using a double-blind process by U of S faculty members and, occasionally, by faculty from other Canadian institutions.

es senior editor, shares the reason she joined the editorial board.

“USURJ is an open access journal, so anyone can view your work. We get many excellent submissions every year and it would be unfortunate if that work could not be shared, and that is

Bicycle Boulevard.” Surkan shares his thoughts on the journal.

“My experience with USURJ has been extremely positive. The peer-reviewed publishing process at USURJ required me to drastically improve my writing. My paper went

Photography Editor: Jeremy Britz, photo@thesheaf.com

Copy Editor: Larissa Kurz, copy@thesheaf.com

Graphics Editor: Lesia Karalash, graphics@thesheaf.com

Web Editor: Nicholas Kindrachuk, web@thesheaf.com

Editor-in-Chief: Naomi Zurevinski, editor@thesheaf.com

Culture Editor: Bridget Morrison, culture@thesheaf.com

Outreach Director: Sophie Kokott, outreach@thesheaf.com

Layout Manager: Laura Underwood, layout@thesheaf.com

Sports & Health Editor: Staff Writer: Emily Klatt, Jack Thompson, sportshealth@thesheaf.com staffwriter@thesheaf.com

News Editor: Jessica Klaassen-Wright, news@thesheaf.com

Opinions Editor: Zach Tennent, opinions@thesheaf.com

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from simply meeting the class requirements to being a highly-refined document that is easily accessible and understandable for a broad audience … but the editing team works closely with you throughout the entire process,” Surkan said, in an email to the Sheaf.

The journal publishes two issues a year, one at the end of each academic term, amounting to 15–20 articles per year. U of S undergraduate students in any college can submit an article to USURJ. U of S alumni are also eligible to submit work they conducted as undergraduate students, as long as they do so within two years of graduating.

Online submissions can be made through the journal’s website.

Surkan shares the benefits of getting a paper published.

“Getting published in a field you are passionate about only does positive things for your resume. It shows that you have the initiative, dedication and capabilities to really contribute to your chosen field of study … USURJ encourages students to become better writers, communicators and professionals. It is an enlightening experience to craft your work into a format that is easily accessible to the broader population.

Publishing your work is worth it for this experience alone,” Surkan said.

According to Goubran, the timeline from submis-

Board of Directors: Ata Merat, Katherine Fedoroff, Kyra Mazer, Chennoa Tracey, Hasith Andrahennadi Cover Graphic: Lesia Karalash, Graphics Editor Advertising 306.966.8688 Editorial 306.966.8689

Ad & Business Manager: Shantelle Hrytsak, ads@thesheaf.com

The Sheaf is a non-profit, incorporated and student-body funded partially by way of a direct levy paid by all part and full-time undergraduate students at the University of Saskatchewan (U of S). The remainder of the revenue is generated through advertising. The financial affairs are governed by a Board of Directors, most of whom are students. Membership in the Society is open to undergraduate students at the U of S who are encouraged to contribute to the newspaper. Opinions expressed in the Sheaf do not necessarily reflect those of the Sheaf Publishing Society Inc. The Sheaf reserves the right to refuse to accept or print any material deemed unfit for publication, as determined by the Editor-in-Chief. The Editor-in-Chief has the right to veto any submission deemed unfit for the Society newspaper. In determining this, the Editor-in-Chief will decide if the article or artwork would be of interest to a significant portion of the Society and benefit the welfare of Sheaf readers. The Sheaf will not publish any racist, sexist, homophobic or libelous material. The Sheaf is published weekly during the academic year and monthly from May through August.

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sion to publication depends on many factors, including the search for a suitable faculty member or graduate student to review the paper and the extent of revisions required from the author.

Thus, the editorial process can take from a few weeks to several months, but it ensures that USURJ publishes high quality work.

Although not all submissions can be published, Goubran believes that students have much to gain when they submit their papers to USURJ, including the opportunity to get detailed constructive feedback from an expert in their field and to become more familiar with the peer review process and the steps involved in publishing a paper. Further, having a paper published is a gread addition to a student’s resume, and also allows contribution to a research community.

USURJ is always looking for submissions from all disciplines and also accepts submissions for cover art for each issue.

Surkan encourages students to submit their work to the journal.

“I would definitely recommend that other students submit their work through USURJ. This process has provided me with several positive benefits ...

USURJ allows students to turn their undergraduate projects into something more than a check mark in their degree requirements.”

The mission of the Sheaf is to inform and entertain students by addressing those issues that are relevant to life on campus, in the city, or in the province. The newspaper serves as a forum for discussion on a wide range of issues that concern students. Written for students by students, the staff of editors, photographers, and artists collaborate with volunteers as studentjournalists to produce a product with relevance to the university community. With each composition, the Sheaf stays in touch with students on the U of S campus. It provides unique insight to university issues through a student perspective.

@thesheaf1912 /thesheaf1912 @thesheaf1912

If you would like to contribute to the Sheaf, email editor@thesheaf.com for more information.

corrections There were no errors brought to our attention in our last issue.

If you spot any errors in this issue, please email them to: copy@thesheaf.com

jan 05, 2017

PAGENEWS TYPE

The retrospective Sheaf: Highlights of 2016 campus events LYNDSAY AFSETH The year 2016 has been eventful, with many new and innovative infrastructures and initiatives at the University of Saskatchewan, as well as a few challenges and setbacks. As a way to ring in the new year, the Sheaf has put together a list of highlights from 2016 campus events.

Jeremy Britz / Photo Editor

Opening of the Gordon OakesRed Bear Student Centre Jan. 4: The year began with the Gordon Oakes-Red Bear Student Centre opening its doors to U of S students. The university budgeted $17 million for the project and it took three and a half years of construction to complete. The aim of the centre is to provide a safe space for all students, especially those who are Indigenous, to house the Indigenous students’ societies and councils and to host Indigenous cultural events. The building’s namesake, Gordon Oakes, was a Nakaneet First Nations elder and spiritual leader who emphasized the treaty relationship as a partnership wherein both groups need to work together equally, and that is the ongoing tone of the student centre.

Indigenous content implemented into degree programs Jan. 21: University Council passed a motion to implement Indigenous content into all U of S degree programs. The motion was presented by the U of S Students’ Union in November 2015, but the initiative began long before that. The aim of implementing Indigenous content is to promote Indigenous knowledge and ways of teaching in order to reconcile the past and bring about understanding for the future.

Rather than requiring each student to pass an Indigenous studies class, as other universities in Canada have done, the U of S will implement content appropriate to each of the different degree programs.

School of architecture initiative Feb. 4: Since 2008, the U of S has

been developing an initiative for a school of architecture at the university. Until February 2016, the discussion had remained among the faculty and students directly involved in the initiative. On Feb. 4, the U of S held an open house to discuss the matter with the Saskatchewan public and to determine the needs of Saskatchewan citizens regarding the mission and mandate of the school of architecture. To date, there is no school of architecture in the province, and those involved believe that the school will positively impact Saskatchewan’s economy, industry and communities.

USSU’s 2016-17 budget report Mar. 15: The USSU’s budget report for 2016-17 was put forward in March at a USSU general meeting. The USSU revealed that its two main focuses were increases in campus group funding and relocations and renovations of the USSU centres. The U of S campus has over 150 student groups that make the culture and community rich and diverse, and the USSU is continuing to allow that diversity to grow.

In terms of the centres, the USSU Women’s Centre was relocated before the 2016-17 fall term to the Memorial Union Building room 103, a larger and more open space than they occupied previously.

Jacquie Berg / Supplied

Flooding at St. Thomas More College Library July 24: After a rainstorm the night before, some of the STM Shannon Library books, placed in temporary storage because of the North Building Renewal Project, were exposed to harsh flooding. Four hundred books, including some special

editions, were so damaged that they had to be discarded. However, the library staff remains optimistic that most of the books that were lost can be replaced, and the cost will be covered by insurance. The STM Library renovation project is expected to be completed in spring of 2017, at which time the library will be open to students once again.

Jeremy Britz / Photo Editor

U of S Bookstore goes alphabetical Sept. 4: Over the summer, the U of S Bookstore reorganized textbooks into alphabetical order by author’s last name. The previous organizational system was by course name and number, a complicated system that made it difficult for staff to quickly assist students on their textbook search. Rather than needing all class information, staff now need only the author’s last name and the title of the textbook. The change was implemented for the beginning of the 2016-17 school year.

U of S begins to craft substance abuse policy Sept. 9: The U of S released a notification regarding an incident of student misconduct involving substance abuse that took place off campus the night before. The notification was sent to all students in order to build awareness of the problems caused by alcohol use, especially around the beginning of the school year. This incident sparked plans for a university alcohol and substance abuse policy.

New REACT campaign to prevent sexual assault Sept. 26: The U of S released a new campaign and an updated USafe app to prevent sexual assaults on campus. The aim of the campaign was to shift the cultural dialogue surrounding sexual assault to one of accountability in order to create a campus that is safe and healthy for all students. In conjunction with the campaign, the USafe app provides educational material

and resources to help students prevent and react to sexual assault.

Commitment to sustainability initiatives Oct. 11: U of S president, Peter Stoicheff, and the USSU’s Sustainability Committee signed a Memorandum of Understanding on sustainability in October. This document signifies the support and promotion of environmentally sustainable initiatives across campus.

The focus of the memorandum is not only on environmental sustainability, but also on economic and social sustainability. The involved parties signed the document because they believe that the creation of a wholly sustainably society should start with communities and campuses.

Jeremy Britz / Photo Editor

New childcare facility opens on campus Oct. 17: A new expansion of the USSU Childcare Centre was opened in October. The project was budgeted at around $4.3 million and has increased the capacity of the centre from 66 spaces to 156 spaces. This expansion was mandated because of undergraduate student parents’ increasing need for access to affordable day care near campus. Because of the new centre, the waiting list for spots has decreased drastically. The Childcare Centre accepts children between the ages of six months and six years and has a fully trained staff.

Groundbreaking asthma research at the U of S Nov. 26: Researchers at the U of S made a significant breakthrough on asthma and other allergies and autoimmune diseases. The research was led by Dr. John Gordon, a professor in the department of medicine at the U of S. Gordon’s research team has developed an immunotherapy technique that has reversed food allergies in mice, and the team hopes to accomplish the same with humans.

New Beginner Season All Equipment Provided Downtown Saskatoon

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New year, new mission: U of S updates mission, vision and values JACK THOMPSON Staff Writer

The University of Saskatchewan community is constantly changing, with added diversity and an increase in graduate student numbers by almost 70 per cent in the last two decades. To reflect these and other changes, the university has released an updated mission, vision and values document.

Revisions began in January 2016 and the final version was presented on Nov. 21, 23 years after the last document was approved in 1993. To kickstart the evaluation, university president Peter Stoicheff appointed an eight member committee to create an updated version of the document.

Brent Cotter, a professor in the College of Law and one of the eight committee members, outlined the approval process of the document.

“We met for a period of time beginning in January through to October to sort of consult, craft a draft, have the committee become comfortable with it, reimagine it in some ways, consult with the president and others around the campus with the work that we were doing and consult with the governing bodies of the university, the senate, the university council and the board of gover-

nors,” Cotter said.

After consultations, the document was presented to the three governing bodies of the university in October for approval.

As part of the evaluation process, over 1,000 people were consulted, including members of the student body, with additional influence coming from two surveys and online interaction.

Liz Harrison, the associate dean and professor at the School of Physical Therapy, worked alongside Cotter on the new document.

“Part of it is timing to ensure that the university is able to and the president is able to articulate what the mission and vision of the university is — the mission being the purpose of this organization — and [for] the vision, we were asked to look over a 10 year horizon to think about our aspirations,” Harrison said.

In addition to these goals, Harrison states that the updated document will guide colleges and other branches of the university locally as they apply it to their fields.

“What we set out is renewal and I think in the process of that, lots of individuals reflected on what’s important at the university, [at] the institutional level, but also for them at their local level, and we heard lots of that in our conversations too,” Harrison said.

In addition to these ben-

efits, the university will be able to present the updated document to the provincial government and to funding agencies in order to provide an accurate representation of what the U of S stands for and what it is working towards.

However, the formulation of this document did not come without its challenges, made all the more difficult by the two page restriction. For example, Cotter explains that some of those consulted wished to see social justice mentioned overtly in the document, but the committee, in order to increase inclusivity, chose instead to specify that the university is working towards the public good.

“There were some people who wanted the document to articulate the university’s commitment to social justice. I think it’s fair to say that [Harrison] and I are highly sympathetic to that but it is a kind of … a band of justice that was relevant to a certain community within the university but not as inclusive as we might achieve,” Cotter said.

Other challenges faced by the committee included respecting the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and articulating the importance of Indigenous peoples at the university, a point which was only briefly mentioned in the 1993 document and now holds a designated place in the new vision statement.

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The document serves clear administrational needs, but Cotter also believes it has a place in the lives of everyone on campus.

“Living the document is also important and I think that will percolate a

bit through the university over the coming year — for some people more than others, but that’s also a valuable feature of it … how it belongs to each of us on the campus in our own small way.”

Lesia Karalash / Graphics Editor

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SPORTSPAGE & HEALTH TYPE

Huskie Highlights: 2016 in university sports EMILY KLATT Sports & Health Editor

The start of a new year means a number of things: for Huskies athletes at the University of Saskatchewan, it means a return to the action with a renewed sense of optimism and drive after a long — and well deserved — winter break.

Although many of us are looking forward to 2017, let’s not forget all the successes of 2016. It was a standout year for all 15 U of S Huskies teams, with plenty of ups and downs to keep sports fans on the edges of their seats. It’s important to acknowledge all the hard work that our student athletes, coaches and administrators have put in over the last 52 weeks. With that in mind, the Sheaf has compiled its top Huskies moments from 2016.

New Huskies’ arena announced There’s a new doghouse

in town. In October, the U of S announced that it had approved the building of a new $41 million multi-purpose sports arena to replace the aging Rutherford Arena. The new arena will house a twin-ice facility and accommodate nearly 1,830 spectators.

The arena is partially funded by U of S alumnus Merlis Belsher, who donated $12.25 million towards the building of the arena, which will be named in his honour.

Men’s wrestling team earns first Canada West championship in 30 years For the first time since 1986, the Huskies men’s wrestling team took home the CanWest championship — a victory 30 years in the making. The team earned a total of 53 points — four more than the reigning champions, the University of Alberta Golden Bears. Additionally, Richard Cux (54-kg), Josh Bodnarchuk (57-kg) and Andrew Johnson (82-kg) all took home gold medals and several other team members also finished on the podium.

Women’s basketball team captures first national title In a triumphant conclusion to the 2015-16 season, the U of S women’s basketball team won the Canadian Interuniversity Sport championship — a Huskie first. Following an 18-2 regular season and a CanWest victory, the team managed to get an 85–71 victory over the Ryerson University Rams in the final. Led by fifth-year players Laura Dally and Dalyce Emmerson and rookie Sabine Dukate, the powerful women’s team made Huskie history.

Huskies host CanWest track and field championships The U of S played host to the 2016 CanWest track and field championships, which took place on Feb. 27. It was a double victory for the men’s team, who managed to take home first place on home turf with a total of 75 team points — the first time since 2013. The women’s team also put in a very strong performance, coming in third with 68.5 team points behind the U of A Pandas.

Huskie connections at Rio Olympics Brazil played host to the 2016 Summer Olympics, and the games had a surprising number of U of S connections. Huskie women’s basketball coach Lisa Thomaidis led Canada’s women’s team to a fifthplace finish, ending a remarkable run as head of the national team. Individual athletes included former Huskies’ wrestler Jillian Gallays, who competed in the women’s 53-kg division, track and field athlete Taryn Suttie, who finished 28th in shot put and men’s volleyball team member Gavin Schmitt. These outstanding athletes and coaches prove that being a Huskie can lead to international success!

Men's hockey team sweeps Golden Bears; sits on top of standings The Huskies’ men’s hockey team finished out the first half of the 2016-17 season in a triumphant defeat of rivals the U of A Golden Bears on Dec. 3.

Ranked number three nationally, the Huskies sit at 10-3-2 and ended the year

in first place in the CanWest standings, with the Golden Bears sitting in second overall. Both teams return to the ice on Jan. 6, which should undoubtedly make for an exciting second half of the season.

Laura Dally named athlete of the year, signs professional contract After leading her team in the CIS championships, former Huskies’ basketball player Laura Dally finished off her university career with a number of important achievements. She was named the CanWest Outstanding Player of the Year, as well as a CIS 1st Team All-Canadian athlete. Additionally, she signed a one-year contract to play professional basketball with the BG '89 Avides Hurricanes Rotenburg of the Damen Basketball Bundesliga in Germany. During the 2015-16 season, Dally led her team in scoring with 17.2 points per game and averaged 4.8 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game.

Dally will no doubt continue to make an impact in the basketball world long after leaving the U of S.

Jeremy Britz / Photo Editor The men’s hockey team certainly hasn’t wasted any of their shots this season.

Katherine Fedoroff The Huskies’ women’s basketball team goes for gold.

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Katherine Fedoroff The Huskies got off to a running start when they hosted the CanWest track and field championships.

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SPORTS & HEALTH PAGE TYPE

Seasonal Affective Disorder: More than just the winter blues

Lesia Karalash / Graphics Editor

ALEXANDRIA PAVELICH Do you notice yourself feeling more lethargic during the fall and winter

months? Or do you notice your mood starts to drop as the snow starts to fall and the sun sets earlier each day? If so, you may be experiencing Seasonal

Affective Disorder, which is much more than just the winter blues.

The Canadian Mental Health Association currently reports that 15 per

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cent of Canadians will experience mild forms of depression over the fall and winter months at some point in their lifetime. Approximately three per cent of these Canadians will suffer severely during the seasonal change, often due to a clinically recognized condition called Seasonal Affective Disorder.

The signs and symptoms that accompany SAD can be much like other mood disorders, but the main difference is that these symptoms recur for at least two consecutive winter seasons, with no other viable explanation for the changes in behavior. Typical symptoms may include changes in appetite with weight gain or loss, decreased energy or fatigue, difficulty concentrating, withdrawal from social situations, loss of motivation for regular activity and feeling sleepy, even after a full night’s rest.

Thankfully, symptoms usually start to alleviate with the onset of spring.

Students who suffer from SAD may notice they have great difficulty making it to class, getting proper rest or maintaining their grades.

As days become shorter over the fall and winter months, individuals start experiencing reduced levels of daylight exposure.

Those who are at a higher risk for developing SAD are individuals who live in communities north of the equator.

Genetics also play a factor: if you are female or if you have a relative who suffers from SAD, your risk is greater. Additionally, those with a prior history of mood disorders are more susceptible.

While there is no confirmed cause for SAD, the Mayo Clinic explains how the condition is correlated to variations in light levels. Human have an “internal clock,” called a circadian rhythm, which directs physiological and biochemical processes in the body. The clock resets itself roughly every 24 hours when your body connects with a bright light source, such as the sun in the morning.

This biological clock can be easily misaligned due to disruptions in our environment. Jet lag, exposure to bright screens from electronics or staying up all night — and then sleeping through the day — can drastically throw off our internal clock. In the case of SAD, circadian rhythms are disrupted from limited, natural sunlight levels due to seasonal changes.

One solution that is proven effective for 60 to 80 per cent of SAD suffers is light therapy. This involves sitting near a speciality-made light for roughly 30 minutes a day.

This form of therapy is helpful because being exposed to this light source assists with the alignment of previously disrupted circadian rhythms, ultimately restoring normal patterns of sleep and other biological processes.

It should be noted that the use of a light box can have side effects such as insomnia from overexposure, so consult a health professional before plugging in CMHA has some simple solutions to help ease the milder symptoms of SAD, offering easy techniques to keep your circadian rhythm in check. One option is to spend time outdoors in order to maximize sunlight exposure. You can do this by avoiding the underground tunnels when walking to classes and choosing outdoor activities during the weekend.

Other options include starting a regular exercise routine — make use of your PAC pass early in the year, before any SAD symptoms take hold. It's also a good idea to stop using electronics at least one hour before bed, as this can impact your sleep. Rather than Netflix, opt for reading a book!

If you feel like you are suffering from more than just a case of the winter blues, please see Student Health on campus for advice. The University of Saskatchewan Students’ Union also offers a Mental Health Support Group every Monday night at 7 p.m. in room 105 of the Memorial Union Building.

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TYPE SPORITSPAGE & HEALTH

Lesia Karalash / Graphics Editor

Give cycle classes a spin in 2017 NATASHA HAUSERMANN 2017 has arrived and you have decided to set a goal of starting a new fitness routine. Sound familiar?

Many of us have experienced trying to set fitness goals in the New Year, but a week or two later you lose motivation and decide to give up. This year, when lack of motivation strikes, try giving a spin class a try instead!

As students, we are often faced with mountains of homework and it seems almost impossible to squeeze in exercise every day. From my own experience as a full -time student, I know the struggle of having to get up at 6 a.m. to get a workout in before class. After a while you get bored, tired and fed up of missing out on that extra hour of sleep.

One solution I have found to help me stick with my New Year’s fitness goals is finding an exciting fitness class that I enjoy doing and would be willing to commit to. For me, that happens to be spin classes.

Spin is basically a 40-60 minute cardio class where you cycle indoors on a stationary bike. The stationary bike allows you to set your own pace. The motivating instructors and empowering music gets you excited to workout. After your first class you will be hooked — jan 05, 2017

trust me, it’s awesome!

Spin classes are geared for everyone and offer the flexibility of choosing a class time that works for your schedule. If you’re nervous about getting started, try having a friend sign up with you — it’s always more fun working out with friends! If you aren’t ready to make a huge financial commitment, many places even offer a free trial class, so you won’t have to break the bank to try a new workout.

Don’t know where to go for your workout? Saskatoon offers many spin class options. Some classes are included in gym memberships, while there are also studios around the city specifically dedicated to teaching spin classes.

Ryde YXE Cycle Studio and Life Cycle Spin Studio are spin studios located on Broadway Avenue. Both places offer classes during the day and in the evening, as well as student deals that make classes more affordable to University of Saskatchewan students.

When you arrive to your class, the studio provides you with proper shoes for the bikes. All you have to bring is your water bottle and gym clothes. More information can be accessed on their apps and websites as well.

Breathe Cycle and Yoga Studio also offers both spin

and yoga classes at their studio located on McOrmond Drive. Class schedules are flexible and affordable and can be viewed on their website. Their energetic and friendly environment will allow you to go home feeling refreshed after your workout!

If you don’t want to travel far from campus, the U of S offers spin classes at the Physical Activity Complex.

Don’t worry — it’s included in your gym membership! These classes don’t offer shoes, so you’ll have to bring your own. These classes are ideal for those who want to get a quick workout in between lectures. You can view and sign up for classes on the Recreation Services website under the Fit Centre calendar. Drop-in spots are also available.

Spin is a growing community within Saskatoon and is very welcoming for newcomers. Starting a new class can be overwhelming, but as long as you have your water bottle, favorite workout gear and shoes, you’ll look like a pro.

I hope these options have sparked your interest to try out a spin class or have motivated you to find your passion in fitness. So recruit a friend, sign up for a spin class and have fun reaching your fitness goals — don’t worry, your legs will forgive you later. www.thesheaf.com

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CULTURE

Helpful hints to keep your New Year’s resolutions SAM CAMPLING During the first week of January, most people are energized and positive about the start of a new year — a new year means new possibilities.

New Year’s resolutions are made — maybe you’ll finally travel to that far away place you’ve always wanted to go to, or maybe you will finally lose that extra 15 pounds you’ve been trying to lose for a good number of years.

Although you may start 2017 feeling motivated, usually by mid-February the motivation begins to fade. But this year is your year, and to help you reach your goals, the Sheaf has provided some helpful tips to keep you motivated to meet your New Year’s resolutions.

Define your goals and why you want to achieve them If you don’t know exactly what you’re after, how are you going to reach

it? Think of it this way: a marathon-runner doesn’t run for 42 kilometres without knowing where the finish line is. If you have no idea where you’re running, you could give up halfway through and never attain your goal.

Once you understand what you want, you have to understand why you want it — without a reason to not give up, giving up is easy. It will always be easier to give up as soon as the going gets tough, so remind yourself why you’re doing this.

Track your progress How do you know you’ve made any progress if you don’t track it? It doesn’t have to be every day, it could be every month if you’d rather track that way. Following your process helps keep you accountable and on the right track.

If you’re super forgetful, tracking your progress is a great way to simply remind yourself of what your goal is. Using a calendar is

a simple and effective way to track progress, as well as keeping a journal to write the details of your progress in. Either way, make sure to keep these systems close by — if you forget to track, you may also forget your goal.

Make checkpoints along the way It can be difficult to stay motivated towards a longterm goal, no matter what the end reward is. So here’s a helpful hint: reward yourself after achieving certain short-term goals, which will lead you towards your long-term goal.

This could be treating yourself to something after you pass an exam, leading you to your end goal of obtaining a degree. By using more immediate reinforcers and rewards, you are constantly motivated to continue on the difficult path of achieving what can seem like a faraway goal.

Small checkpoints act as reminders of how you’ll feel once you’ve reached the finish line and those

feelings will most likely consist of pride and happiness — remember, small progress adds up to big results!

Have patience and stay positive When it’s been a month of working hard to achieve your goal and you don’t see any progress, it can be easy to give up. Why continue if what you’re doing doesn’t seem to be helping? You have to remember that you are doing everything right and in time, you will see progress.

Remind yourself how

great it is that you’re pushing yourself every day to be a better you and that you’re doing amazing on your race to the finish line. You have to believe in yourself — be proud of yourself, you’re doing something amazing and you’re doing the courageous deed of pushing yourself to become a better person. Don’t give up, you can do this!

It’s great thinking of ways to better yourself, but it’s even better when you take action and achieve your goals! Happy New Year and good luck!

Lesia Karalash / Graphics Editor

Student winter bucket list for 2017 NAOMI ZUREVINSKI

Editor-In-Chief With 2017, students are brought a new term and the usual dump of Saskatoon snow, but this doesn’t have to be a cause for despair. Instead, ring in the New Year with the excitement of trying a few different activities and take the opportunity to cross some items off of the Sheaf’s winter bucket list.

1. Skating at the Cameco Meewasin Skating Rink: this skating rink by the Delta Bessborough is located in the heart of downtown Saskatoon and is the perfect way to get a little bit of outdoor activity and post-holiday cheer in your life.

With no admission fee, the rink is open to the public during both the day and the evening. Skate rentals are available at the rink and washrooms are on-site.

Skate for awhile and then grab a coffee or hot chocolate downtown to warm up!

2. The Enchanted Forest walk-through: this is a holiday favourite in Saskatoon, but if you missed this magical light display over the holidays at the Saskatoon Forestry Farm and Zoo, don’t worry — you can still check it out.

On Jan. 8 from 5:30 to 9 p.m., the Enchanted Forest is open to the public to walk-through the display for the evening, and there will also be hot chocolate and a bonfire! This is a great chance to view the display at your own pace. Admission is $5 per person or $20 per family.

3. PotashCorp WinterShines Festival: from Jan. 28 to Feb. 5, the PotashCorp WinterShines Festival is happening in and around downtown Saskatoon. The Festival features a number of events, including a soup cook-off at the Farmers’ Market, an ice carving display and a snow park. This may just be the pick-me-up you need when you're feeling those end of January blues.

4. Jan Lisiecki at Convocation Hall: Born in

Calgary, Alta., Jan Lisiecki is a world-famous classical pianist. On Feb. 21 and 22, Lisiecki is coming to Saskatoon to play two concerts at Convocation Hall on campus. This is a performance you don’t want to miss —

home to numerous hiking trails and gorgeous views of the South Saskatchewan River.

It might be a good idea to save this bucket list item for closer to term two midterms, when you need

Peter Christensen / Supplied Take advantage of the different activities Saskatoon has to offer this winter.

not only is Lisiecki incredibly talented, but he’s also a world-renowned artist at only the age of 21.

5. Winter hike at Cranberry Flats: if you want to get out of the city for a while and do something that is cost-free, try hitting up Cranberry Flats Conservation Area. Only a 15-minute drive outside the city, Cranberry Flats is

10 the sheaf publishing society ∙ www.thesheaf.com

nature’s healing touch the most.

6. Day ski/snowboard trip: if you can’t make it to the mountains this year, you’re in luck! Just hours from Saskatoon awaits a few ski hills that will suffice for a day trip for you and your friends. Duck Mountain, Table Mountain Regional Park, Wapiti Valley Ski Area and Blackstrap Provincial

Park are all destinations that make for a great day trip. Be sure to pack a lunch, snacks and thermoses of coffee to enjoy on your road trip and to save money!

7. Winterruption 2017: Winterruption is an annual festival in Saskatoon that features podcast taping, live theatre and music. This year’s dates for the festival are Jan. 19-21, and featured venues include the Broadway Theatre, the Bassment, Louis’ Pub and the Refinery.

For more information on this festival and to see the line-up, head to broadwaytheatre.ca/events.

8. Musical acts coming to Saskatoon: if you’re a lover of music, there are some incredible shows lined up to play in Saskatoon this winter. From country to folk, there’s sure to be something for everyone.

Notable artists include Blue Rodeo at TCU Place on Jan. 17, Marianas Trench at Sasktel Centre on Feb. 6, Eric Church at Sasktel Centre on Mar. 9 and the Lumineers at Sasktel Centre on Mar. 30. jan 05, 2017

PAGE TYPE CULTURE

Winter drinks to keep you warm this season BRIDGET MORRISON

What better way to warm up during Saskatoon’s cold winter than with a little alcohol in your system. The Sheaf has put together a list of some winter cocktails to mix up this January!

Culture Editor

Boozy pumpkin white hot chocolate

Winter cranberry martini

Spiced mulled wine with brandy

This recipe is from the blog Minimalist Baker and is perfect for lovers of all things sweet! Pumpkin pie, whipped cream and chocolate add up for a deliciously sweet treat that is perfect to cozy up with on a cold night.

This recipe serves two.

This drink is perfect for a party and it’s got a little bit of everything — classy, elegant and fun! This recipe serves two and is from the blog Swooned.

Mulled wine is always a hit at any winter gathering — try out this recipe for a slight variation on the classic! This recipe serves four and is from the blog Gimme Some Oven.

Ingredients: ½ cup white chocolate chips 2 ½ cups milk (use dairyfree milk for a veganfriendly version) ¼ cup pumpkin puree ¼ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice 2 ounce kahlua or 1 ounce bourbon Whipped cream and caramel for topping (optional) Steps: 1. Over medium-low heat and whisking often, melt the chocolate chips and half of the milk in a saucepan.

2. Once melted, add the rest of the milk, the pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice and mix well.

3. Pour mixture into two cups, add 1 ounce kahlua or ½ ounce bourbon to each cup. Top with whipped cream and caramel sauce.

Ingredients: 4 ounces gin 2 ounces cranberry infused simple-syrup (steps to make provided below) 2 ounces vermouth 2 ½ cups fresh cranberries 1 ½ cups water 2/3 cup sugar Fresh rosemary (to garnish, optional) Steps: 1. Add the water, sugar and 1 cup of the cranberries to a pot. Stir and cover with a lid and leave to cook for seven to 10 minutes over medium heat. Mash with a spoon and reduce the heat to low and allow to cook for another five minutes.

2. Strain the mix, and only use the juice for the martini.

3. Add ice, gin, vermouth and cranberry simple-syrup to a martini shaker and shake!

4. Garnish with the remaining ½ cup cranberries and rosemary.

Ingredients: One 750 ml bottle of red wine 1 orange ¼ cup brandy 8 whole cloves 2 cinnamon sticks 2 star anise Steps: 1. Slice the orange into rounds.

2. Combine all ingredients in a non-aluminum saucepan over medium-high heat and bring to a simmer, not a boil.

3. Once the mixture is brought to a simmer, reduce heat to medium-low and let it continue to simmer for anywhere between 15 minutes and 3 hours. The wine will take on more flavours the longer you let it sit.

4. Strain and serve warm, with garnishes such as sliced orange, lemon or lime and cinnamon sticks.

Auld man’s milk Similar to spiked eggnog, Auld man’s milk is a commonly found in Scotland on New Year’s Eve. This drink is both smoky and creamy, with a citrusy kick! This recipe is from Supercall and serves four.

Ingredients: 6 eggs 4 cups half-and-half cream ½ cup sugar 1 cup dark rum 1 cup scotch whiskey For garnish: grated lemon zest and ground nutmeg

Lesia Karalash / Graphics Editor

jan 05, 2017

Steps: 1. Separately, beat the yolks and whip the egg whites.

2. In a punch bowl, whisk the beaten yolks, sugar and the half-and-half.

3. Add the rum and scotch whiskey, and stir.

4. Slip the beaten egg whites into a bowl and stir gently.

5. Ladle into cups and garnish with the grated lemon zest and ground nutmeg.

05 06 07 08 09 10 11

upcoming events • Curtis Windover, respectful child, Juniperus & I.n. baba at Vangelis

Thursday

• Bang Bang Control with Tickle Trunk at Amigos • Taylor Jade, Anna Haverstock, Monika Gerow, Ellen Froese at the Capitol Music Club • The Karpinka Brothers at the Bassment

friday

saturday

• Crooked Creek with guests at the Capitol Music Club • Gerard Weber Group at the Bassment • Johnny 2 Fingers and the Deformities with The Fuss at Amigos • Last day of the BHP Billiton Enchanted Forest Holiday Light Tour at the Saskatoon Forestry Farm and Zoo

• Henry Rollins at the Broadway Theatre • Last day of Once Upon a Christmas exhibit at the Western Development Museum • Push2Play Light Walks at the Saskatoon Forestry Farm and Zoo • Thomas Yu Basement Backstage Fundraiser at the Bassment

sunday

• First day of the Western Canadian Crop Production Show at Prairieland Park

monday

• Calgary Hitmen versus the Saskatoon Blades at the Sasktel Centre

tuesday

• Comedy Night with Drew Behm at the Capitol Music Club • USSU Winter Welcome Week Disney Karaoke at Louis’ • USSU Winter Welcome Week Hot Wing Challenge at Louis’

wednesday

www.thesheaf.com

∙ the sheaf publishing society 11

CULTURE RESTAURANT & bar

Featuring Canadian/American Cuisine,

A healthier you starts here:

Recipes for a student kitchen

Fusion & Global Flair Specialties

KEZIA FOURIE

All items are scratch made: appetizers

Like many students at one point or another, you’ve probably told yourself that you’re going to eat healthier starting tomorrow. Well guess what — tomorrow has come! Here are some easy healthy recipes to get you started living a healthier and happier life.

Egg served on a bed of spinach

Smoothie bowl

This brunch idea came to me when my fridge had only a random assortment of items, and items that needed to be used right away — this lead me to get creative with spinach, eggs and onion. This recipe is full of protein, vitamins and other nutrients and serves one.

Personally, I had never heard of a smoothie bowl until one of my roommates introduced them to me and as soon as I tried it, I flew over to the smoothie bowl team — their ease and taste captured me. Smoothie bowls are great because there are so many variations to try and they can satisfy your sweet tooth. This recipe serves one.

salads sandwhiches gourmet burgers noodle bowls pastas steaks california pizzas and so much more!

Also featuring our own famous delectable desserts Straight-up Saskatchewan Goodness Daily Food & Bar Specials Happy Hour from 2pm Across from campus on Cumberland at College open daily 11am till late

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COMING EVENTS follow us

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Sylvia Chave

Performing Hits From

Ingredients: 1 egg 1 big handful of spinach ¼ cup onion chopped 1 tablespoon olive oil Salt and pepper, to season Steps: 1. Add olive oil to a pan and cook the onion until translucent. Add the spinach, salt and pepper and cook until the spinach becomes wilted.

2. Create a well in the spinach and onion mixture and crack the egg into the well.

3. Cook the egg to meet your preference and serve.

Renji Penji and Sylvia Chave

Ingredients: ¾ cup frozen fruit of your choice ½ cup greens such as spinach or kale ½ cup liquid of your choice, such as water, juice or milk Toppings such as nuts, oats, dried fruit, flax or chia seeds Steps: 1. In a blender, mix the fruit, greens and liquid until you reach your desired consistency.

2. Pour the mixture into a bowl and add whatever toppings you desire and serve.

Banana peanut butter chocolate ice-cream If you’re a lover of icecream, this is the treat for you! It taste just like the real stuff, but isn’t packed with the extra sugar, dairy and fat. This recipe serves one.

Ingredients: 1 - 2 frozen bananas 1 tablespoon peanut butter (to avoid processed sugar use organic peanut butter) ½ - 1 tablespoon cocoa powder Steps: 1. Process the frozen banana in a high-powered blender or food processor until it resembles the texture of ice-cream; this will take a couple of minutes.

2. Add the peanut butter and cocoa powder and blend.

Thursday, January 5, 10 am

•••

Friday & Saturday Nights, 8-10 Pm

Friday, January 6

Bridges

Saturday, January 7

B.d. giuseppe & Friends Friday, January 13

Corey Howe

Saturday, January 14

JustiCe der

Friday, January 20

Katie Miller

Saturday, January 21

sheaf jan 5, 2017.indd 1

Although this dessert is extremely simple, it definitely satisfies that sweet tooth without excessive amounts of processed sugar and other not-so-good for you ingredients. This recipe serves one.

Ingredients: ½ cup yogurt (for less sugary yogurt use plain instead of a flavoured kind) ½ – 1 cup fruit of your choice Steps: 1. Combine the fruit and yogurt in the bowl.

2. If you want to add a little something extra, drizzle honey or agave syrup on top, and sprinkle some chia or flax seeds on top as well.

Sweet chili salmon with a side of asparagus and rice Salmon has seen a lot of praise in its day for being a healthy food — part of this reason is due to its content of omega-3 fatty acid, which has been shown to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Among others, rice is an essential producer of vitamin B and asparagus contains other important vitamins including vitamin A, C and E. This recipe serves two.

Ingredients: 2 salmon fillets 4 tablespoons sweet chili sauce 1 bunch of asparagus, about 20 stalks ½ cup uncooked brown rice 1 tablespoon olive oil Salt and pepper, to season

live muSiC in Prairie ink reStaurant & Bakery

wires & wood

Yogurt dessert

mealmakeovermoms / Flickr Smoothie bowls are a healthy breakfast option for students that will provide them with enough fuel to get through the day.

12/20/2016 11:56:26 AM

12 the sheaf publishing society ∙ www.thesheaf.com

Steps: 1. Preheat the oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Cook rice according to package instructions.

3. On one half of a baking sheet, place the salmon filets skin side down and cover both fillets with the sweet chili sauce and season with salt and pepper.

4. Toss asparagus in olive oil to coat and then place, in a single layer, on the tray. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Bake in the oven for about 20 minutes, or until fully cooked and serve with rice. jan 05, 2017

PAGE TYPE OPINIONS

Saskatoon vacancy rates soar: Good for students, bad for graduates BODAN WOROBETZ The number of empty apartments in Saskatoon hit a record high in October 2016. What exactly caused this and what does it mean for students?

The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation reported that apartment vacancy rates reached an historic high of 10.3 per cent in Saskatoon. By comparison, vacancy rates at the same time last year were a mere six per cent.

There are two primary causes of this dramatic upswing, but perhaps the most powerful has been the collapse in commodity prices — beginning in 2014 with the decline in oil and gas. The value of both potash and uranium have both declined significantly over the past two years as well.

These four commodities are all significant contributors to Saskatchewan’s economy. As the price for

which these commodities can be sold into world markets has declined, so too have the profit margins of the entities extracting these resources.

The resulting effect is job losses throughout the energy and mining sectors.

So, how does this affect Saskatoon? Well, Saskatoon is the financial and logistical hub within the province for resources.

The commodity downturn has slowed the economy, therefore affecting jobs in Saskatoon as well.

The CMHC reported that there are 3,200 less fulltime jobs available in Saskatoon compared to the same time last year. Not only would losses be seen in the commodity sectors, but spin off effects would result in losses in other industries too.

In sum, fewer jobs means people moving away. Now there is suddenly a glut of rental properties with no one to rent them. That’s

the first reason we’re seeing such high vacancy rates. The second cause is related to overbuilding.

A separate report released by the CMHC has indicated that there are

Jeremy Britz / Photo Editor Now’s a good time to start renting.

strong signs of overbuilding occurring within the city. This is likely a result of the strength in the economy witnessed pre2015.

When times were good,

people were getting jobs and demanding more homes. The construction industry responded and many homes were built and planned. However, as the economy slowed, the construction industry inevitably takes time to adjust to the change in demand. The end result is an oversupply of new construction. As new owners then purchase and subsequently attempt to rent, the vacancy rate climbs higher yet.

So what does all this mean for students? Well, if you’re looking to either start renting or your lease is going to expire and you need a new place to rent, it’s good news. Due to a large supply of apartments and a dwindling demand, apartment rental rates will begin to decline if this trend continues. As of now, rents have been reported to have decreased by 0.9 per cent since the same time last year. It’s

not much, but rental rates will likely continue to fall as long as the vacancy rate remains elevated.

This is great for students who are in the midst of their studies, but not so great for those getting ready to graduate. Cheap rent is awesome, but if you can’t find a job to pay that rent, well then, let’s face it — you’re screwed. The condition of the economy is all the proof one needs.

Jobs are more scarce than a few years ago. They’re still out there, but just harder to find, depending on your specialty and area of interest.

That being said, there will always be winners and losers in a market economy.

Saskatchewanians must remember though — living in Saskatchewan is living in the shadow of resource extraction. When resources are strong, Saskatchewan is strong. When resources are not — we move to Ontario.

The sobering costs of liquor privatization TRAVIS HEBERT The Saskatchewan Party has checked off another box on their long list of privatization schemes. With a looming $1 billion deficit projected for next year, perhaps selling yet another one of the province’s most lucrative assets is not the best idea.

The government claims that privatizing liquor stores will not negatively affect the revenues of the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority because private stores will remain an expendable extension of SLGA operations. If liquor sales remain the same as they are now, they posit that none of the revenue that pays for Saskatchewan’s hospitals, schools and roads will be lost.

This is a naive way of thinking. There seems to be a failure to completely understand the complexities of the liquor retail system in this province. By contending their claim on sales revenue alone, the government fails to recognize the variability of fluctuating wholesale costs and government-controlled markup as a result of a decentralized liquor market, which has a dramatic impact on government revenue.

Private retailers require rates of return on their capjan 05, 2017

ital costs that greatly exceed those of a liquor board. With a proposed cut of 25 per cent to markups, the government will be losing much of its valuable tax return, which helps balance the physical and social costs of consuming alcohol.

In addition, the implementation of private liquor stores creates a more complicated and costly distribution system. The SLGA will lose its purchasing power as more competitors are brought into the game, which will in turn cost the province its ability to use that purchasing power to negotiate better deals.

As a result, it is undeniable that a singular, centralized public liquor entity is better able to control the wholesale costs and markup fluctuations, which stabilizes the government return. The removal of a central actor compromises the fluidity and profitability of the entire system.

According to the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives, if the provincial government’s proposals had been implemented five years ago, the total $1.1 billion revenue of public liquor sales of the last five years would have experienced a $100 million hit.

Stating that if liquor sales remain the same, the province’s revenues will remain

the same is contradictory to privatization history. In Alberta and British Columbia, the gross profit margins dramatically decreased as privately operated liquor stores increased.

In a country with universal healthcare, it’s only rational that due to the detrimental health implications associated with alcohol consumption, provinces should receive tax dollars on the sale of liquor to help balance the inevitable healthcare costs that come as a result of drinking proclivities.

Being a student, there is certainly an attachment to alcohol, especially in this province. Many see privatization as a means to cheaper beer, and a more consumer-friendly market environment.

While many contend that private stores result in lower liquor prices, I am still not fully convinced of this. Alberta beer prices have climbed to the highest in Canada, despite complete privatization of the industry.

Even prior to the economic collapse, prices were comparable within a couple dollars of Saskatchewan’s beer prices.

Regardless, even if privatization does save consumers a couple of bucks, the lost government revenue is simply

not worth it.

The SLGA has done a great job of finding a way to balance the social costs and health impacts of alcohol consumption with reasonable prices that do not take away an individual’s personal liberty to purchase and consume alcohol. It’s the perfect middle ground that fosters social responsibility while improving the state of the province.

The privatization schemes of the current government are knee-jerk reactions to the dangerous deficit the province is faced with. At the end

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of the day, the cuts to liquor markups and the inevitable increase of the liquor wholesale price will have a negative impact on the province’s funding.

Saskatchewan’s crown corporations are the backbone of the provincial economy and the sale of yet another one of our public goods will only hurt the province. Our liquor stores alone have returned $1.1 billion in revenue over the last five years, and the loss of that income will seriously hurt our education, our hospitals and the people of Saskatchewan.

Lesia Karalash / Graphics Editor

∙ the sheaf publishing society 13

OPINIONS

Getting a good start to the new semester KAY-LYNNE COLLIER It is the end of another semester at the University of Saskatchewan and as winter begins, students are reflecting on how they spent their time here in the past few months. With that in mind, what can we do differently next semester to make 2017 suck a lot less than 2016?

Once January comes, people tend to come up with ideas for New Year’s resolutions. However, according to a study by the University of Scranton, 39 per cent — less than half — of people in their 20s are successful with their resolutions. Also, there are fewer and fewer young people even bothering to make them.

Is it even valuable to create these goals you’ll throw out by February? I don’t think it is. It’s important to create goals throughout the entire school year. Even give yourself small goals at first, so that you can start checking more and more off of your list, giving you the motivation and confi-

dence to complete other bigger tasks.

That being said, there are some things that students could benefit from doing before going into a new semester. One of the biggest ones in my experience is practicing selfcare, including making sure that you have your supports in place before classes start.

That means getting appointments with your counsellor, doctor, academic advisor, career coach and Disability Services for Students — if applicable — out of the way so that you can discuss any concerns, feelings and ideas with professionals and start 2017 off right.

This could also mean talking about career goals, updating your resume and planning your classes for the upcoming year. Reaching out and getting support when you need it and being honest with how you feel will help you be healthier and more stable going into the New Year. Check out what is offered for support services on campus and you

Jeremy Britz / Photo Editor You can never go home again — or at least you shouldn’t.

Things that inevitably happen every time I go back to my shitty hometown for the holidays EMILY KLATT Sports & Health Editor

In an age of global stability, it’s strangely comforting to know that no matter how many years I’ve been away, the same damn things will happen every time I go home for the holidays.

The holiday season always brings certain predictable elements: drunken uncles, 12 terrible cover versions of Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas is You” and — for me and many other University of Saskatchewan students — the inevitable return to small, rural hometowns.

Although I haven’t officially resided there since 2014, each academic break

might be surprised with how much taking advantage of these services will help you in the future.

Another way to practice some productive and positive self-care is to get everything you need for your classes in order. Restock your pens, pencils, notepads, loose leaf and any other school supplies you might need.

Tidy up your living space so that you can feel like you have a fresh start.

Do your laundry and recycle those empty beer cans.

While you’re cleaning up the space around you, you could probably also benefit from cleaning up your diet. Put the coffee and energy drinks down and make sure you get proper nutrition by eating something other than boxed macaroni and fast food.

Eat a fruit, for goodness sake. Packing your own lunch instead of buying something every time you eat will not only be better for your wallet but also for your health. Try and cut down on alcohol and drugs, especially if you notice that it is affecting

your studies and/or your relationships with other people.

Lastly, despite the stereotypes of older generations, most U of S students I know work so hard to get to where they are and spend most of their time studying, participating in extracurricular activities and working part-time or even fulltime jobs. Clearly these students are not spending all of their time getting drunk. In fact, according to the U of S Health Assessment Survey of 2013, only five per cent of all U of S students reported that their drinking has af-

fected their studies.

With stress from school, it can be difficult to find time for family and friends. Try and make time for them though, and try and make time for yourself as well. You will be able to focus on your studies a lot better if you are not pushing yourself too hard.

I hope that this next semester is all that you are dreaming of and I hope that you survive. A new year brings a lot of renewed hope and with it, new opportunities. Get out there and seize every positive opportunity 2017 brings you. Good luck!

sees me making the fiveand-a-half hour trek down Highway 11 to my childhood home, accompanied by that familiar mix of nostalgia and dread.

It’s a feeling you can only describe if you grew up in a small town and then proceeded to run as far away as you could the moment you graduated high school — a common denominator of rural Saskatchewanian existence, if you will.

Much like the town slogan and the mayonnaise at the back of your parents’ refrigerator, there are things that will never change about visiting your hometown.

You will spend your Friday nights exactly the same way you did in high school.

For some people, that means drinking Palm Bays in a field.

For me, it means watching bad reality television with my mom and falling asleep on the couch by 10 p.m. — to each their own.

You will go to buy something at the one grocery store in town — maybe it’s baking supplies for your mom. Maybe it’s tampons.

It doesn’t matter. You will go to buy something at the grocery store and every sin-

gle cashier will be a kid that you used to babysit. They will all be taller than you, and you will proceed to be embarrassed about buying tampons.

Every elderly person you encounter will ask you the five exact same questions.

They all know who you are, even though you swear you’ve never seen them before you in your life. This is part of the small-town-elderly-person conspiracy.

You will probably run into your old high school partner.

They will either have never left your hometown and be married with three children or be in the same alienated position as you are. Either way, you’ll avoid eye contact and wonder what the hell 15-year-old you was thinking.

At some point, you will run out of clean clothes and be forced to wear something that you haven’t worn since grade 11. Usually this means a ratty sweatshirt with your high school’s mascot on the front and a pair of jeans with mysterious stains and a hole in the crotch. Wear them with pride.

You’ll also inevitably get bored and drive around town

in the middle of the night, listening to the only local radio station that gets decent reception. It plays a mix of country music, Bryan Adams and top 10 hits from five years ago. Listen anyway.

Somehow, despite three years of university classes, a nose ring, better eyebrows, a shiny new journalism job and an appreciation for decent coffee, three days back in my hometown manages to make me feel like I’m 15 again.

It’s been three years since I got out, and maybe that’s why I can write about my hometown with dark humour and an outsider’s perspective. These things about my hometown haven’t changed and probably never will.

But, the thing is, I’ve changed and you’ve changed. Those years away have done us good. We’re able to move past our small towns without forgetting all of the things that they taught us — even if those lessons were mainly how to not be like the shitty people from our hometowns.

The more things stay the same, the more you change.

Remember that.

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jan 05, 2017

PAGE TYPE DISTRACTIONS campus chat

“

What are you most looking forward to in 2017?

“Gaining more spiritual connection.”

” “Time to get back to the grind” says guy who plays Pac-Man during entire class

Urvee

AGRICULTURE BUILDING — With a new semester dawning, University of Saskatchewan students are getting ready to settle back into the old familiar routine of school life. For some, this means reading and research. For others, it means playing arcade game emulations on their laptops during class while thinking about sex and ignoring their lecturers.

Braden Taman, president of the U of S’ CheckedOut Students’ Association, sat down with the Sheaf to discuss his organization’s plans for the coming year.

“We’ve got some really great changes that we’ll be implementing this semester,” Taman said. “To give just one example, we ratified our constitution last autumn so that playing Tetris and browsing dating sites is

now perfectly acceptable in courses all the way up to the 300-level, and — after what I don’t mind calling a pretty contentious vote — we decided to authorize leaving your headphones in while attending both tutorials and labs when taking first and second-year courses.”

Taman expressed hopes that the new semester will allow students to approach their short attention spans

and lack of conviction with a renewed vigour and enthusiasm.

“Certainly the break was a good opportunity for people to maybe kind of take a load off and recharge their batteries, but I think with a new term starting, people are probably feeling ready to sit in classrooms and do Buzzfeed quizzes for three hours each day again,” Taman said.

MIDDLE EASTERN BELLY DANCE “Seeing the Lumineers.”

Hallie MacLachlan

Egyptian Belly Dance & Folkloric Fitness, Fun & Friends

starting the week of

January 9th, 2017 Technique Arabic Drumming Shaabi Fit 508 - 12th Street E (just off Broadway)

dancegypt.com facebook.com/DancEgypt/

“Being finally done with 2016.”

Luke Pulvermacher

Dedicated to preserving, performing and teaching Middle Eastern Dance since 1986 XKCD.COM XKCD.COM

Top Five Albums of the Year BY: JEREMY BRITZ / PHOTO EDITOR

1. The Life Of Pablo by

5. Muzik by Delorean

Kayne West

Swedish indie-pop synth-rockers return with a groovy foray into a psychedelic landscape.

The ever controversial Kanye West returns after a three year absence with what might be his most genuine release yet -still no word if he's done working on the damn thing.

2. Blonde by Frank Ocean

Although it may take a few listens to fully appreciate the depth of musicality contained within, Frank Ocean's sophomore release stands strong.

jan 05, 2017

Special mention: Passion, Pain & Demon Slayin' by Kid Cudi — Cudi’s back baby!

3. ANTI by Rihanna

Rihanna strays from her radio friendly roots and delivers her most capricious, thought-provoking album to date.

4. Views by Drake

Call me a sucker for mainstream artists, but Views is actually a really solid album that proves Drake has a formula that works.

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