The Silhouette - Oct. 3, 2013

The

Silhouette McMASTER UNIVERSITY’S STUDENT NEWSPAPER

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2013 VOL. 84 NO. 8

HOMECOMING GAME PRIMER

B2

BAD FOR

STUDENT POLITICS

MSU cuts ties with MAPS

BUSINESS McMaster University is suspending five professors in the DeGroote School of Business. Take a look inside the faculty feud.

SRA votes to end agreement with part-time student association

MAPS, A3

PAGE A10 WAR WITH DOUBLE STANDARDS

Building Photos | YOSEIF HADDAD

Come next fall, full-time students may not have to pay an extra fee if they switch to part-time status in the summer.

On Sept. 29, the Student Representative Assembly voted to nullify a 27-year agreement between the McMaster Students Union (MSU) and the McMaster Association of Part-Time Students (MAPS).

The end of the agreement suggests summer MAPS fees will no longer be collected from students who have already paid fees to the MSU. The decision would be imposed in 2014/15, barring any disagreement from the University’s board of governors.

MAPS would have its budget of roughly $500,000, funded entirely by student fees, slashed by about 50 per cent.

Prior to the SRA vote, full-time students who took a part-time course load during the summer had to pay $7 per unit to MAPS despite paying an MSU fee covering a full 12 months. MSU president David Campbell told the SRA at the Sept. 29 meeting that they had a “moral obligation to act” to end the duplication of fees.

At the end of the discussion period, the SRA voted to end the agreement 26-0 with three abstentions.

“The MSU did not like one provision in an agreement so it threw the baby out with the bathwater. Frankly we don’t know what they want now,” said interim MAPS director Kyle Johansen.

Johansen was hired in July to pick up the pieces of the MAPS spending scandal that had former director Sam Minniti fired.

Regardless of the outcome, Johansen said, “MAPS has no intention of abandoning parttime students. We will continue to advocate for all part-time students.”

At the SRA meeting, the atmosphere was tense as Johansen hurriedly read off a statement on why the agreement should not be dissolved. Johansen wanted the matter to be discussed in November rather than be decided last night.

“A year ago, a unilateral decision to end this agreement might have been acceptable to the university community. I don’t think that’s the case today,” Johansen said. He said the new MAPS board was more willing and capable to discuss the issue but needed more time.

Graphic | ANDREW TEREFENKO

Anqi Shen Online Editor

Anqi Shen Online Editor Five professors in the DeGroote School of Business have been handed “lengthy suspensions without pay” by the University after a tribunal found that their misconduct resulted in a “poisonous and hostile work environment.”

In 2011, two complaints of harassment were filed by and against faculty in McMaster’s business school.

An anti-discrimination tribunal set up to address the complaints recently released its 26-page public report. The report summarizes the tribunal’s findings after two years of proceedings, 2,694 documents and 65 witness testimonies.

In the first complaint, five faculty members filed a harassment complaint against a senior administrator and McMaster University. In the second complaint, seven faculty members and one staff alleged that six faculty members, including four who filed the first complaint, harassed them. One counter-complaint was filed against one of the initiators of the

second complaint.

A tribunal, made up of three tenured McMaster professors, was commissioned to hear the complaints. They found that several professors committed “serious and multiple” acts of misconduct.

“The most egregious misconduct involved the unlawful and self-serving interference with tenure and promotion,” according to the public report.

“Permanent removal was a remedy seriously considered for some of the individuals. In the end, it was not determined to be necessary,” the tribunal stated. They found the University allowed some delays and certain decisions by a “non-party senior administrator” also contributed to workplace hostility.

The tribunal recommended that three professors should have “lengthy suspensions without pay, benefits, privileges or access to the University’s premises.” It was recommended that two other professors also be suspended, but for a shorter period of time. One other individual will receive a written reprimand.

The identities of the

HOMECOMING SAUCE

suspended and sanctioned professors have not been disclosed due to a confidentiality agreement. The tribunal did not specify how long the suspensions should last.

McMaster president Patrick Deane issued a statement calling the “complexity and number” of the complaints “unprecedented” at the University. Deane stated that he “fully accepts the Tribunal’s findings” and has “already begun the process of implementing the recommended sanctions and other remedies.”

Following the release of the tribunal’s report, three business classes were cancelled this week.

McMaster spokesperson Andrea Farquhar said the department is working to ensure all classes are up and running again by next week. “[The School of Business] has been successful in finding a number of well-qualified instructors,” Farquhar said, to temporarily take over from the suspended professors.

“It will certainly be a priority for us to minimize impact on students,” she said.

INDIVIDUAL SANCTIONS •Lengthy suspensions without pay, benefits, privileges or access to the University’s premises for 3 respondents •Reduced yet still lengthy suspensions (same conditions as above), for 2 other respondents •Formal written reprimand and mark on discipline record for 5 years for 1 respondent •Mandatory sensitivity training for above respondents •Immediate removal from positions of authority that could affect conditions of employment for faculty; prohibited from holding any such position for a minimum of 5 years

Source: Board-Senate Hearing Panel’s Public Tribunal Report

FIVE PROFESSORS, A6

GTA V FOR ANDY

PAGE B7

PAGE C4

PAGE B3 MARAUDERS BOTTOM OUT

the S ’ T N E D I S E PR E G A P Scrapping Summer Fees & Saving Students Money David Campbell President president@msu.mcmaster.ca

ext. 23885

During my election campaign, I said making summer fees fair for students would be a priority during my MSU presidency. As you may already realize, the MSU represents all full-time undergraduate students at McMaster. Each September, every student taking 18 units or more automatically pays a number of fees in addition to tuition. These fees support everything from the MSU to the Student Wellness Centre. What you may not realize is that if a full-time student takes courses part-time in the summer – anything between one and five courses – those students are forced to pay a second time for some of these campus services. Students pay two redundant fees; one to the McMaster Association of Part-time Students (MAPS) ($7.00 per unit) and one to Athletics and Recreation ($4.98 per unit).

I believe that these fees are unfair and I have been working hard to see them discontinued. Together, these fees cost $11.98 per unit, or $35.94 for a single summer class. This means that approximately $300,000 in redundant fees are being charged to students every year.

The first of the unfair summer fees is paid to the McMaster Association of Part-time Students. Whereas the MSU represents full-time undergraduates, MAPS represents part-time students on campus. In 1986, shortly after MAPS was first formed, our two organizations signed an agreement which made summer students, by default, MAPS members. If students wished, they could transfer their fee back to the MSU and be refunded, though this rarely happened. Flash forward thirty years to the present day and the landscape of education is very different. There is a significant population of undergrads taking summer courses as a complement to full-time studies. Furthermore, the MSU operates 12 months of the year and facilitates many (if not most) of its services during the summer months. Advocacy efforts within and outside of the University remain constant, as the MSU pushes for course availability, improved services and a better quality of education for McMaster students. Also, our services (EFRT, TwelvEighty, Mac Farmstand, Underground Media+Design, Union Market, Mac Breadbin and the Health & Dental plans to name a few), are all available to keep campus life active, fun, safe and affordable for those taking summer classes. In recognition of these facts, the Student Representative Assembly (SRA) recently voted 26-0-3 to rescind the agreement which forced full-time students to pay the MAPS’ fee. While three members of the SRA abstained from the vote, not a single member of the SRA opposed the motion and it passed unanimously. The fee in question has already been cancelled for the summer of 2014. This move by the SRA should eliminate the fee permanently. I am very proud to see the MSU uniting to eliminate this unfair fee on behalf of students.

The second of the unfair fees is the Athletics and Recreation fee. Each fall, every full-time student pays $112.25 for a full-year of membership to DBAC and many of Mac’s other athletic facilities.

Even though this membership lasts for a full twelve months, a student ends up paying a second time for these services if they take a summer course. The University administers this fee. I have been in discussions with both the previous and current Dean of Students, and the Office of Student Affairs has demonstrated a willingness to eliminate the fee for the next budget cycle.

Making summer fees fair for students is just one example of what I’m working on this year. For another example, I hope you check out all the events happening for Homecoming weekend! In particular, come out to BSB lawn on Friday, October 4th for the Homecoming Expo. All afternoon we will have food trucks, live McMaster music, and a ton of games and give-a-ways for students. At 2:00pm, there will be a rally to kick off the weekend, hosted by myself and Coach Ptaszek of the Mac football team. It will be a great opportunity to celebrate our amazing school and I hope to see you there!

by the : S R E B M U N

21,025 Full-Time Undergrads were part of the MSU in 2012-2013

$7/unit MAPS Fee

+

=

5904 Full-Time Undergrads took summer courses in 2013 and were charged unfair fees

$4.98/unit Ath & Rec Fee $11.98 savings per unit OR

$35.94 per 3-unit course

Each summer student takes 4.1 units on average* MSU members will experience

$289,993 in total savings

*Based on information provided by McMaster’s Office of Institutional Research & Analysis

Spencer Graham VP (Education)

David Campbell President

Anna D’Angela VP (Administration)

Jeff Doucet VP (Finance)

The President’s Page is sponsored by the McMaster Students Union. It is a space used to communicate with the student body about the projects, goals and agenda of the MSU Board of Directors.

www.msumcmaster.ca

N

theSil.ca

EWS

Thursday, Oct. 3, 2013

A3

Editors Julia Redmond & Tyler Welch & Stephen Clare Email news@thesil.ca

@theSilhouette

Phone 905.525.9140 x27117

VIDEO: HOW TO MAKE A GREAT SALAD see THESIL.CA

Mac drivers embrace illegal parking tactics Tyler Welch Assistant News Editor Universities are hubs for innovation and creativity. And sometimes, this creativity can be used to cheat the system and park for free.

Since the start of 2013, McMaster Parking and Security Services have issued 75 tickets to people who were caught trying to circumvent the parking system.

There are an indeterminate number of students, faculty and visitors whose parking-related mischief goes completely unnoticed and unpunished. And there are plenty of methods being used to beat the system.

Sarah, a McMaster grad, said that she parked illegally all the time.

“My best tactic has been to use a previously issued ticket and put it on my windshield pre-

tending that I had already been ticketed [that day]. Works like a charm,” she said.

A Fleming College student named Dan had a similar tactic.

When visiting McMaster to see his girlfriend on weekends, he would park near the west quad, in Lot M, or the one behind Bates Hall.

“Over there, they give you a warning slip before they issue a ticket,” he explained. “I just keep the warning in my glove box, put it in under my windshield wipers when I park, and they just assume someone already gave me a warning.”

Other approaches can be less simple. Justine, a Mac grad, said that she used to use a frying pan to get out of paying for parking.

Her story references the smaller parking lot in front of Ivor Wynne. In that lot, a driver pulls up to the automatic arm and

ticket dispenser. A metal detector identifies the car and issues a barcode that says what time the driver arrived at the lot. Upon leaving, the driver is supposed to insert this barcode, and be charged according to how long he or she has been parked there. The driver can then pay using debit or credit.

A stay of less than 15 minutes is free of charge.

Justine invented a scheme one day, when for a reason that is forgotten, she had a frying pan in her car. She thought “If it’s a metal detector, I bet it will pick up this frying pan”.

And so it began. When leaving the parking lot, instead of using the voucher she got when she parked, Justine would go back to the entrance, wave the frying pan in front of the metal detector, and receive a new voucher with that time encoded on it. While exiting,

she would simply insert that new voucher into the machine, and being less than fifteen minutes since waving her frying pan, she could leave the lot for free.

“I probably did it 40 or 50 times,” she said. “I didn’t have to pay very often.”

The plot thickened if someone started looking at her waving a frying pan in a parking lot.

Of course, she would wait for quiet moments to run over to the metal detector, but if someone did notice her, Justine would call them over, and offer up her secret method in exchange for their silence.

Those without the fortitude to amass a scheme can get away with free parking too. Will Farr, a Kinesiology student at McMaster, told a story of a very simple way to escape parking charges.

“I was walking from Les Prince when I looked over to the

parking lot in front of Hedden.

I saw a guy in a big, black SUV drive over the curb and turn around the barrier, so he didn’t have to pay for parking.”

Terry Sullivan is the director of Security and Parking Services.

He said that his department is doing important work to stop this issue.

“Not paying for parking is theft and we treat is seriously.”

“Parking revenue contributes to the betterment of the University through reconstruction of sidewalks, roadways and bike pads,” said Sullivan.

Anyone caught attempting to scam free parking receives a $75 fine and a suspension of their parking privileges for a month.

Parking lots are regularly monitored by staff and closed-circuit video cameras. @TylerWelch4

JULIA REDMOND / NEWS EDITOR

Students are feeling SWELL

Bylaw changes on hold

New Student Wellness lounge opens in MUSC basement

Julia Redmond News Editor

Abhi Mukherjee The Silhouette Since the start of the new academic year, McMaster students have had a new place on campus to relax.

The Student Wellness Education Lower Lounge initiative that has started this school year, is a lounge space dedicated to students. The lounge space offers students counseling on mental and general wellness topics in addition to providing them with a space to relax, take a break and start a conversation with someone.

A schedule is followed every week that is motivated by a theme. The week of Oct. 7, for example, will be “Mental Awareness ” week that will color the activities that take place from Monday to Friday.

“The topics for some of the events depend on what’s happening in the student life-cycle during that week or what the students are generally interested in,” said Pearl Mendonca, Wellness Education Coordinator at the Student Wellness Center.

Every Monday is termed as “Mindfulness Monday” when students are taught about relaxation and meditation techniques and take a break during their day. Tuesdays are ‘Movie Tuesdays’ where a movie best suited to go with the weekly theme is shown. Wednesdays are ‘Well-

ness Wednesday’, where the topic changes every week; this week’s topic was ”Fitness under a budget”. Thursdays are ‘Thirst-tea Thursdays’ where a guest speaker is brought in during the morning and tea is served all day. Fridays are ‘Free-Fruit Fridays’ where bowlfuls of different fruits are supplied to promote students to choose healthier alternatives.

The SWELL initiative is a partnership between McMaster Student Affairs and the McMaster Students Union.

“This lounge has been a number of years in the making.

The idea was to have a lounge space for students to come, but also have resources that they needed. They could also chat with people,“ said Mendonca.

In addition to the above fa-

cilities, the space holds offices for the Student Wellness Center, as well as a microwave for students to heat their lunches.

The initiative has about 40 volunteers in addition to its two organizers.

The lounge is located in the basement of the Student Center, opposite the CFMU radio station office. It is open to all students, from Monday to Thursday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and on Fridays from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

“Everyone interacts about mental health in different ways,” said Mendonca.

“People’s experiences are very valuable, so it’s necessary to have different spaces where students can speak about their mental awareness.“

ELIZA POPE / ASSISTANT PHOTO EDITOR

After a tumultuous week in student politics, the question of ancillary student fees has been put on hold.

The proposed amendments to a McMaster Students Union bylaw which would see five student groups go to triennial review by referendum did not pass at the meeting of the Student Representative Assembly on Sept. 29.

The amendments, proposed by the Finance Committee under the leadership of Commissioner Daniel D’Angela and with the support of VP Finance Jeff Doucet, sought to bring greater financial transparency and accountability to the set of non-MSU, non-university administered groups.

Each of the affected groups was given an opportunity to voice their concerns at the meeting.

“We think there are better, more effective ways to begin conversations with students, and to create more meaningful conversations,” said Kathryn Chan, co-president of Engineers Without Borders, to those present. She explained that her organization was interested in transparency, though not through what they considered time-consuming referendums.

“We think that [the referendums] come at a cost of decreased quality in the work that we do,” Chan said.

Miranda Clayton, president of the McMaster Marching Band, echoed Chan’s sentiment.

“While the changes have good intentions, they ultimately

harm the groups involved,” she said.

The McMaster Marching Band was granted a student levy to the amount of $0.90 per student for the 2013-2014 academic year after winning a referendum in January 2013.

Although each of the five groups opposed proposed bylaw framework, the discussion highlighted that issues with the amendments were rooted in the drafting process.

While the groups felt a referendum was taxing, Doucet and the Finance Committee believed such a model was best for maintaining group autonomy.

“All these groups are very different, so…it’s hard to come up with a solution,” he explained.

“But one thing they all had in common was going to referendum to get student money.”

Lexi Sproule, co-president of EWB, felt that the perceived lack of consultation was a miscommunication between groups.

“It’s a pretty classic misunderstanding between people making strategy decisions and people on the ground.”

After nearly two hours of discussion, the decision was made to send the proposal back to the finance committee for a more thorough consultation process.

D’Angela explained that the Finance Committee has now asked for policy suggestions from each group on “how to improve students democratic input into the fee” and a period of consultation is expected to follow. @juliaeredmond

CANADIAN CAMPUS NEWS Sophia Topper The Silhouette

Selkirk becomes first Fair Trade community college

Online wine sales begin at Niagara college

U of Windsor faculty tows the picket line

UVic taken to court by campus pro-life group

U of T prof’s sexist comments draw criticism

Selkirk College has become the first community college in Canada to attain Fair Trade status. A fair trade campus is one that purchases and supports Fair Trade products whenever possible, and promotes fair work conditions for people all over the world.

This designation, which will need to be reapplied for annually, is the result of hard work by a few students and faculty members of . They ensured that Fair Trade coffee, tea and chocolate were available across campus. Campus awareness is also a key part of the program, with plenty of posters across campus to further educate members of the community.

Online wine sales have begun at Niagara College Teaching Winery.

Its partnership with eWinery Solutions now allows it to proffer its wines, which have won more than 100 national and international wines since with program started in 2002. Currently the wines are available to aficionados in Ontario, Manitoba and British Columbia, but hopes are high that an online presence will allow the school to extend into the United States. Proceeds all go to support students at the Canadian Wine and Food Institute, located on the college’s Niagara-on-the-Lake campus.

Numerous members of the Faculty Association chose to honour the CUPE 1393 picket line Sept.

24 as unionized faculty cancelled classes. Staff supporting the striking workers had to show the Dean plans to make up missed class time, but that didn’t stop some students from feeling jilted. CUPE 1393 coordinator Aldo DiCarlo was grateful for the support, and said that the strike is beneficial for the students, maintaining the pay and work they will want once they graduate. Talks between the union and the university have broken down again, and the faculty’s collective agreement allows members to respect picket lines, so students might need to get used to it.

The University of Victoria is in court once again regarding its troublesome relationship with Youth Protecting Youth, a campus pro-life group. The British Columbia Civil Liberties Association, which recognizes safe abortions as a civil right, has nonetheless filed a constitutional lawsuit against the University and the UVic Student’s Society. The issue is the school’s attempted cancellation of events planned by the club, and the school’s characterization of “pro-life advocacy as harassment” as well as the “long history of antagonism to YPY,” according to the BCCLA. This is the second suit filed against UVic’s Student Society by YPY.

David Gilmour, an English professor at the University of Toronto, has stated that he does not like the work of Canadian, female, or Chinese writers. He explained “I don’t love women writers enough to teach them, if you want women writers go down the hall. What I teach is guys, serious heterosexual guys… Real guy-guys.” These remarks have earned the ire of academics and activists across the North America, and a statement released by University of Toronto officials distances the institution from his views. Gilmour has since apologized for his statement, saying that it was taken out of context and the joviality behind his remarks was lost in text.

E

theSil.ca

Thursday, Oct. 3, 2013

DITORIAL

A4

Executive Editor Jemma Wolfe Email thesil@thesil.ca Phone 905.525.9140 x22052

to jemmy from the block.

TEDxTORONTO

The glorious burden of choice Jemma Wolfe Executive Editor Last week, I had the pleasure of attending TEDxToronto, one of the independent TED speaker conferences all about ideas worth spreading. This year, the conference’s theme was “The Choices We Make,” and from the very obvious to the extremely subtle, every speakers’ talk related in some way to that guiding phrase.

There was Ti-Anna Wang, the young woman who has chosen to dedicate her life towards freeing her father from the Chinese prison where he is serving a life sentence for democratic political activism. Her commitment to her cause can be explained simply. As she put it, “if I don’t speak out, how can I expect anyone else to care?”

Then there was Darrel Bricker, the former Director of Research for the PMO who is interested in how statistics and surveys help businesses make decisions moving forward based on shifting demographics. He spoke about the “new country” of Canada that is developing before our very eyes – we just have to open them to see it.

And there was Mark Henick, the mental health advocate who brough the Royal Conservatory of Music’s Koerner Hall to rapt silence as he described his experiences with attempted suicide. He has since chosen to live, and to spread his message of hope to mental illness sufferers.

Through the diversity of speakers and messages, the importance of the choices we make resonated. It’s a message particularly relevant to the young

people who populate Mac’s campus.

Who are still experimenting with decision-making, and still defining who they are.

This week in The Silhouette, you can read about many McMaster students who are making positive choices for themselves and their communities.

Lisa Pope makes a difference in Panama on B9, Karen Piper moves around the world to pursue an education right for her on A9, and Danielle Beaudin chases her dream of making music on C7.

Be inspired by the choices they’ve made, and know that you always have a choice, that you make choices every day, and that it is through our decisions and their repercussions that we shape our character. @jemma_wolfe

In reply to “MSU committee pushes bylaw changes that would see student groups put to referendum”

by Julia Redmond, published Sept. 26, 2013 on A1 (and cont’d on A3) surprise to see the MSU’s Finance Committee looking to ease the financial burden placed on undergraduates. However, rather than focusing their attention on the austerity agenda of the Ontario government, or on big banks profiting hand-over-fist from our student loans, the MSU’s proposed bylaw changes seek to channel the frustration of McMaster students against student groups that actively promote and sustain spaces for critical thought and debate (such as OPIRG McMaster).

These bylaw changes are depressingly symptomatic of the MSU’s approach to student politics more broadly, which consists of lowering political expectations and forfeiting any pretense toward student mobilization. In its place, the MSU (and its parent orga-

nization, the Ontario Undergraduate Student Alliance) concoct weak-worded policy documents “behind the scenes” and submit position papers that seek to transform the university into one giant “entrepreneurial centre”.

The consequences of the MSU’s proposed bylaw changes will ultimately be to render precarious the type of student infrastructure that resists the cost-benefit ideology of the neoliberal university, and to distract students from the real changes that can only be made by building a strong and fighting student movement.

•

Evan Johnston, PhD candidate in the Department of English and Cultural Studies

In reply to “On the matter of our motto” by Jemma Wolfe, published Sept. 19, 2013 on A4 fensive that, as Ms Wolfe puts it, it is “unacceptable”? And if so, then we must ask ‘Why?’ Does it foster exclusivity of beliefs on our campus? If there’s one thing I’ve experienced over the years at Mac, it’s that the Mac community is brutally nice and inclusive!

As Ms Wolfe so rightfully observed regarding our diversity: ‘McMaster is a sight to behold.’ (Tear). Is a hospital, simply because it is named after St. Joseph and bearing a cross, exclusive to the patients of the Christian faith? No. In fact our motto, if I may argue, has the potential to foster greater inclusivity by allowing opportunity for discussion of beliefs within the student

to buck just buckin’ around. 1.1 style.

to indesign, you saucy minx.

to my parents’ anniversary.

to the door handle ruining my open door policy.

to dingin’ people. to the wedding.

to the drive to ottawa. never again.

to arrivals.

to departures.

to r.r. on the job.

to too much sauce on my wings.

to early nights. i told you it would be a new era. to haircuts. finally.

to my lab notes book, and to whoever else it once belonged to. to hand trucks.

to the impending george costanza phase. to jargon, and the people who spew it. to employees refusing to give their names. that’s pretty pathetic, mcmaster. to sra meetings running late. some things never change.

The Silhouette

McMaster University’s Student Newspaper

EDITORIAL BOARD Jemma Wolfe | Executive Editor thesil@thesil.ca Scott Hastie | Managing Editor managing@thesil.ca Andrew Terefenko | Production Editor production@thesil.ca Anqi Shen | Online Editor news@thesil.ca Julia Redmond | News Editor news@thesil.ca

Christian motto has potential to foster religious inclusivity McMaster’s motto directs us towards the rich history of one of the top institutions in Canada. Denying such a history would be, in some sense, denying the truth, picking and choosing what ‘fruits’ of the past we would or would not like to keep on the tree that is history. Surely that does not stand in accordance with the pursuit of knowledge and truth that McMaster ascribes to.

Someone will say, ‘But just because it is history doesn’t mean we should parade it on our crest. We don’t see Hitler’s quotes etched into the walls of institutions.’ And that is right. Offensive material is another case.

But is our current motto so of-

to cherub. definitely.

to sil shirts.

MSU bylaw changes a distraction from real challenges facing students

to cooties paradise. to getting alumni invites to hoco. it still feels too soon.

to the almost tech resolution. almost.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

On university campuses across Ontario, it has become increasingly clear that the status quo of ever higher tuition, textbook, and administrative fees are incompatible with the promise of accessible post-secondary education.

According to a recent report by the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives, the average Canadian student finishes their degree $37,000 in debt, and in Ontario, tuition fees alone are projected to rise to $8,756 by the 201617 academic year. When one adds to this picture the recent data revealing chronic unemployment among Ontario youth - and the problem of precarious work for Hamilton youth in particular it is evident that McMaster students are living through challenging times.

In this context, it comes as no

to rebuilding the team.

to boy stuff.

population, promoting understanding together.

In this way, we fight against false tolerance. False tolerance asks people to remove their beliefs before coming together. It says ‘We accept you, but only if you leave your hijab at home, or take off the Jesus sticker on your bumper.’

It is what you see nowadays in Quebec, where tolerance is not tolerance at all, but a fear and inability to embrace what is different.

•

Hudson Wu, Honours Kinesiology IV

Tyler Welch | Assistant News Editor news@thesil.ca Stephen Clare | Features Editor news@thesil.ca Sam Godfrey | Opinions Editor opinions@thesil.ca Laura Sinclair | Sports Editor sports@thesil.ca Alexandra Reilly | Assistant Sports Editor sports@thesil.ca Amanda Watkins | LifeStyle Editor lifestyle@thesil.ca Miranda Babbitt | Assistant LifeStyle Editor lifestyle@thesil.ca Bahar Orang | ANDY Editor andy@thesil.ca Cooper Long | Assistant ANDY Editor andy@thesil.ca

About Us

Write To Us

Section Meeting Times

MUSC, Room B110 McMaster University 1280 Main Street West, Hamilton, ON L8S 4S4

Letters to the Editor should be 100-300 words and be submitted via email by Tuesday at 12:00 p.m. to be included in that week’s publication.

News Thursdays @ 3:30 p.m.

Yoseif Haddad | Photo Editor photo@thesil.ca

Opinions Tuesdays @ 1:30 p.m.

E–Mail: thesil@thesil.ca Facebook.com/ TheMcMasterSilhouette Twitter.com/theSilhouette Production Office (905) 525-9140, extension 27117 Advertising (905) 525-9140, extension 27557

Legal

Eliza Pope | Assistant Photo Editor photo@thesil.ca

Sports Thursdays @ 12:30 p.m.

10,000 circulation Published by the McMaster Students Union

The Silhouette welcomes letters to the editor in person at MUSC B110, or by email at thesil@thesil.ca. Please include name, address and telephone number for verification only. We reserve the right to edit, condense or reject letters and opinion articles. Opinions expressed in The Silhouette are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the editorial board, the publishers or the University. The Silhouette is an editorially autonomous newspaper published by the McMaster Students Union. The Silhouette Board of Publications acts as an intermediary between the editorial board, the McMaster community and the McMaster Students Union. Grievances regarding The Silhouette may be forwarded in writing to: McMaster Students Union, McMaster University Student Centre, Room 201, L8S 4S4, Attn: The Silhouette Board of Publications. The Board will consider all submissions and make recommendations accordingly.

LifeStyle Thursdays @ 10:30 a.m.

ANDY Tuesdays @ 5:30 p.m.

Video & Multimedia Thursdays @ 4:30 p.m.

Photo Fridays @ 12 p.m.

Ben Barrett-Forrest | Multimedia Editor photo@thesil.ca Karen Wang | Graphics Editor production@thesil.ca Emily Scott | Video Editor photo@thesil.ca Sandro Giordano | Ad Manager sgiordan@msu.mcmaster.ca

A5

Mac gets passing grade on freedom of speech Sophia Topper The Silhouette It’s report card time, but not for students.

On Sept. 24, the Justice Center for Constitutional Reforms published its annual report on freedom of speech on Canadian campuses. The report grades both administrations and student unions on their policies and actions.

The McMaster administration received a B for policy, and a D for its actions. These grades are largely due to the discrepancies between the Statement on Academic Freedoms and the Student Code of Conduct, as well as various other anti-discrimination policies. To receive an A, an institution must have “no prohibition on speech which a listener might find ‘offensive, ‘discriminatory’, ‘disrespectful’, ‘inappropriate’, or ‘creating a negative environment.’”

The grading methods, however, are controversial. Gord Arbeau, Director of Public and Community Relations for McMaster, stated that “there does not appear to be a clear connection between grades and the university.” He also noted that “this was the first [the University] had heard of the report…[JCCF] did not attempt to contact anyone at the university to discuss our approach.”

Indeed, the incident that the report centered on, where students were prevented from displaying an “Israeli Apartheid” banner, was in 2008, despite the fact that this is an annual report.

President of JCCF, John Carpay, revealed that for the University or the McMaster Students Union to improve their grades, they would need to release a public statement apologizing for their handling of prior incidences, or to

“reverse existing policies.”

Arbeau reputed that the University has “clear commitments” to both the principles of free speech and of ending discrimination, and continued that the Statement on Academic Freedoms and Student Code of Conduct “rely on and inform each other.”

The MSU received Cs for both policy and action. Their grades were also based on the “Israeli Apartheid” incident, and the report alleges that the MSU bases their decisions on allowing free speech on the Human Rights and Equality Services office. It also draws attention to MSU’s policy on advertising and promotion, and accuses the MSU of wording it such that it could be used to censor clubs.

David Campbell, MSU President, describes the conflict between harassment prevention and freedom of speech as “difficult, that’s the crux of the issue… [but] we feel very confident in our policies.”

He also defended the MSU’s use of Human Rights and Equality Services in an advisory capacity, and responded that he didn’t find the JCCF’s critique “quite fair.” “[Human Rights and Equality Services] doesn’t dictate any outcomes… the final decision rests with us,” he said. “[But] they do have expertise in the field”.

Despite the JCCF’s criticisms, both McMaster and the MSU received passing grades, unlike 51% of Canadian public universities. McMaster’s grades have been stagnant for the last two years, and neither the University nor the MSU is eager to revamp their policies by removing bans on discriminatory language. Without a single university attaining an A average, it seems like McMaster will keep surfing the grade curve.

MAPS condemns MSU’s decision FROM A1 In response, MSU president David Campbell said the MSU board was frustrated with MAPS’ unwillingness to negotiate or meet until Aug. 8 despite repeated attempts over eight months.

“When we met with [Johansen] on Aug. 8, he told us in no uncertain terms that he did not consider what we were discussing a priority. He had bigger things that he was hired to address,”Campbell said, after the SRA meeting.

“Our only option was to unilaterally decide that the agreement was null and void,” Campbell said. He added that he did not see how putting off a decision would change the situation.

Campbell said the motion to end the duplication of student fees was in the works before the MAPS spending scandal was exposed in January. Ending the agreement was also part of Campbell’s presidential platform earlier this year.

After the vote, MAPS issued a statement condemning the MSU’s decision to walk away from the contract.

“Unlike the MSU Board who are fulltime paid employees, all members of the MAPS Board are volunteers. They have

been working practically non-stop to save this organization for seven months,” the statement reads.

MAPS questioned whether or not students could still transfer between the two student associations under a 2007 agreement amending the initial contract.

Campbell dismissed the claims made in MAPS’ statement.

Campbell said the MSU “fully intends to uphold the transferability mechanism.”

“We have an agreement here that is extremely unusual – there is no exit clause except if both parties come together,” Campbell said. “We’ve done everything we could to negotiate in good faith. This was our only option.”

“In our bylaws, if you’re a member in September, you’re covered for 12 months,” Campbell said.

MAPS stated that their board will meet this week “to review the options are available to us, but our primary focus is to finish the task at hand and present revised by-laws and policies to the Provost for his comments.” @anqi_shen

CHECK OUT WWW.MSUMcMASTER.CA/TWELVEIGHTY FOR MORE!

NEWS

CHEAPDRINKS, AMAZINGFOOD, PRICELESSMEMORIES.

Thursday, Oct. 3, 2013

THURS BAR NIGHTS! HOTTEST DJ’S! LOWESTDRINKPRICESINHAMILTON! STUDENTPRICES!

theSil.ca

theSil.ca

Thursday, Oct. 3, 2013

NEWS

A6

FEATURE

New clubs face uphill battle

“

@featuringsteve

C/O SARAH JANES

CLUBS PER SCHOOL 2013/14

326 204

24933

Western

ENROLMENT PER SCHOOL 2011/12

U of Ottawa

186

34708

Western

U of Ottawa

Mac*

23848

Despite financial limitations, Polletto has grand plans for her club, which she initiated after seeing two close friends suffer from eating disorders. Already, she’s had interest from off-campus sponsors.

Clubs are also able to fundraise on campus, but even this is made difficult by the amount of competition. Bake sales in MUSC, for example, are an efficient way to raise money, but space in the atrium is limited.

“It definitely is very competitive to get bake sale tables, which makes it difficult because this year there’s one club a day allowed a bake sale table,” said McKinnon.

The most successful clubs at McMaster often do not experience these same problems from year to year.

For Asian F.O.C.U.S., one of McMaster’s most popular and visible clubs, neither membership nor money are the issues, according to the club’s president, Colin Liu, a fourth-year Commerce student.

“We’ve been around about 16 years,” he said. “We’d like to say we get a hundred [new active members] every year. So anywhere between 300 to 400 active general members [each year].”

As far as money goes, AF’s social events are so lucrative that they even allow the club to act as a source of funding for other campus organizations. “There are a lot of charitable clubs on campus that require a little bit of upstart or donations to help their cause, and so frequently you will have a lot of clubs on McMaster that contact us personally asking for some sort of collaboration or some sort of donation or what not,” said Liu. Liu sees a lack of longevity as the biggest issue facing campus clubs. “Often, what I see is that there will be a huge cluster of students that start a club together and then they graduate. And then you’re left with a new wave that’s not as prepared,” he said.

To avoid that collapse, it is important to build a strong base and attract motivated new members from a variety of years early on. This makes the start-up process for new clubs stressful as they compete with other organizations to gather money and members.

However, each executive was optimistic about the coming year.

Polletto is excited to lay the groundwork to ensure the Alliance for Body Peace’s future success. “At least three of us, me, the events coordinator, and the publications [coordinator], are going to be here for another three years. So we should be able to get some establishment down before we move forward,” she said.

Similarly, McKinnon is looking forward to utilizing the increased funding available to BoH as a club in its second year.

“I want to bring [Bracelet of Hope’s founder] Dr. Anne-Marie back. She’s really good.”

Meanwhile, Liu will try to keep AF’s momentum going. “I think you just got to do what you got to do. Be friendly,” he said, when asked how to get noticed on campus. “[Our members] get their friends involved, and it’s just a snowball effect.”

Mac

this year. It is the campus chapter of the Zonta International Group, which, according to the organization’s website, seeks to “[improve] McMaster’s annual Clubsfest the legal, political, economic, edcan be as overwhelming as it is ucational, health and professional exciting. Hundreds of enthusiastic status of women worldwide.”

McMaster clubs flock to the Burke To try and attract members, Science Building lawn to try and McMaster Golden Z relies heavily seduce new and old students alike on social media. “We’re really to their group. The competition using word of mouth because on is fierce because for many clubs, the executive committee it’s 10 the sign-ups gathered at Clubsfest girls, and we’re just telling all of form the basis of their memberour friends, we’re inviting everyship for that year. one we know on Facebook,” said “There were a lot of people,” Farran. said Mehjabeen Elahi, a first-year For some clubs, though, even Humanities student. “And where just 10 members is a lot. it was busy I just skipped.” Elahi Bracelet of Hope is a charity ended up in three clubs: Huthat seeks to empower women manity at Mac, UNICEF, and the in the African country of LesoMuslim Students Association. tho by buying and selling their Jenna Healey, a second-year handmade goods, especially the Life Sciences student, also rered bead bracelets that give the marked on how busy the day was. organization its name. Victoria “There was a ton of clubs. We McKinnon, a third-year Arts & tried to see all of them,” she said.

Science student, is the President The chaos of Clubsfest of the group’s McMaster chapter, was not just in their heads. For which started last year.

2013/14, the McMaster Students “There were five of us,” she Union ratified a whopping 326 said. “We just kind of decided we clubs. That’s more than most would start it and see what we schools in Ontario; in comparicould do with it. It was ratified as son, the University of Ottawa has a club last year, and then the other 186 clubs and Western University four members graduated so I’m has 204. president now.”

“Anecdotally speaking, and For McKinnon, the small size from my own research into a of the club was appealing in some number of different schools, Mcways. “It really gave me a chance Master University does have one to take on a role of leadership that of the largest Clubs departments I probably never would have had in Ontario,” said Jessica Irvine, the in a big club where you have 30 MSU’s Clubs Administrator. people applying for an executive At first glance, this huge diposition,” she said. versity seems like a point of pride, In other ways, though, size and indeed, the MSU’s website was a limiting factor. “There are says of Clubsfest that, “With fewer people to volunteer for hundreds of clubs to choose from, events, fewer people to volunteer there’s something for everyone at for bake sales, and if people’s McMaster!” schedules conflict that’s more of But does the quality of an issue,” McKinnon continued.

McMaster’s clubs programming This year, she has worked to increase with the quantity? There increase membership, and BoH is is only so much space on Mcnow up to 30 members.

Master bulletin boards and only Another problem that arises so many tables at Clubsfest, and with McMaster’s club saturation McMaster students are limited in is that each organization’s piece the number of events, meetings, of the MSU and fundraisers financial pie is they can attend. smaller. Clubs A membership can apply for increase in one “It’s a challenge to between $100 club forces, to a and $1000 of certain extent, get the word out there MSU funding. a membership and get people really “Based on decrease in another. interested in the group.” the nature of the club, the These are size of the club, problems that Yara Farran, Communications the scope and disproportionDirector, Golden Z Club the programately affect new ming the club clubs, of which has planned there are 54 they will receive a specific allothis year. Many established clubs cation amount which they can already have members to plan use for items such as advertising, and attend events. In contrast, promotions, operating fees, room new clubs often start the year with rentals, etc. Typically, larger just half a dozen or so charter groups with more members will members, and spend the first receive a larger allocation as their few weeks of school fighting the cost is generally higher,” said more than 300 competing clubs Irvine. to attract the dedicated members However, it’s not just small that make possible the fundraisers clubs that receive less funding— and social events for which clubs it’s new clubs, too. exist. Inevitably, some are unable “Finding money—that’s to compete and fizzle out at the the hardest part,” said Katarina end of the year, evidenced by the Polletto, president of the new Mcfact that 65 clubs failed to apply Master Alliance for Body Peace, for re-ratification this year. when asked about the challenges “It’s a challenge to get the of starting a new club. “Especially word out there and to get people as a new club, we know we’re not really interested in the group,” getting any money. We requested, said Yara Farran, a second-year I think, $600, but that’s not going Arts & Science student. Farran is to cover anything. And we’re not the communications director of going to get it, I know we’re not.”

McMaster’s Golden Z club, new Stephen Clare Features Editor

Students check out what McMaster clubs have to offer at Clubsfest 2013.

* 54 of the 326 total Mac clubs were ratified this year alone.

65 did not re-ratify in 2013.

Five Mac professors suspended without pay CONTINUED FROM A1 The tribunal dismissed allegations against the senior administrator accused of harassment and abusing his power.

The tribunal also found there was no “direct harassment or malicious behaviour” on the part of the University. However, it stated that the University must “accept some responsibility” for the unacceptable workplace environment and review its anti-discrimination policy. The tribunal recommended sensitivity training for the reprimanded professors.

The complaints were filed a year after former business dean Paul Bates resigned. Bates stepped down amid disputes among the faculty and claims of bullying.

Some believed he was not a qualified academic as he had industry experience but no university degree, while others defended him.

The issue created a rift between

business school faculty.

Bates, who was not specifically named in the tribunal’s report, still works at McMaster as a special advisor to the president.

Since the tribunal began investigating the complaints two years ago, proceedings have been kept out of the public eye.

Farquhar said it was necessary to protect the identities of the university employees involved in the complaints.

Individual sanctions have taken effect immediately while other recommendations will be gradually enforced.

“There are some recommendations on reviewing the [anti-discrimination] policy, for instance, and some sensitivity training – that takes a little bit of time to implement. The policy will go to the Senate,” she said. @anqi_shen

O

theSil.ca

Thursday, Oct. 3, 2013

PINIONS

A7 Getting out

A9

Editor Sam Godfrey Email opinions@thesil.ca Phone 905.525.9140 x27117

Referendum woes

A8

Sam Godfrey Opinions Editor

A

s those who know me can woefully attest to, I am not the type of person to agonize over wardrobe choices.

But when I reached for a sweater from my dwindling Clean Pile and came up with a cozy blue one, I hesitated. I stood there for a little while, half-dressed, holding the sweater at arm’s length as a convoluted stream of thoughts battled it out through the morning grogginess. Not because the colour was unflattering, not because it clashed with my pants, not because knits are out this season, but because emblazoned on the front, in friendly, bubbly lettering, was the word “SMILE.” I knew that most people, myself included, faced with a goofyfont request to grin would likely react in some positive way. If not by smiling, than at least hopefully remembering that it’s still an option. But I couldn’t shake the feeling that demanding a smile from everyone I crossed paths with seemed a bit insensitive.

What if someone I encountered, a friend, was having an off-day?

My shirt wasn’t offering a sympathetic ear or a tight hug, it was suggesting they bury whatever they were really feeling under a veil of cheerful visual cues.

Nearly everyone has an automatic response for the casual query “How’s it going?” In the barrel, loaded, ready to go, is that reflexive “Good,” “Well,” “Fine.” I’ve come across a lot of discussion about this lately, calling us all out on out how little stuff like this normalizes the way we stifle hardships, hiding our weaknesses from one another. We’re all kind of programed to appear healthy and happy when someone asks how we are, regardless of whether or not we are. This discussion, I think, is constructive in that it encourages people to answer “How’s it going?” more honestly. I think it’d be nice for people to feel at ease talking through their problems, and would be a good exercise in empathy for all parties involved.

But like anything good, this message’s resonance came to an end with me. After scrolling through pages of various blog posts, newspaper articles and well-intentioned videos, I started to feel a little smothered. The concept of someone’s ability to be honest warped into a responsibility to share. I felt guilty for all the times I’d answered “Great!” to a polite co-worker, when what I was really feeling was more “Dishearteningly overwhelmed by life, stuff, and things.”

After wallowing in this image of myself as an everyday liar for a while, I started to actually think about why I lie about these things. It wasn’t because I felt some societal pressure to be perpetually cheerful, or enjoyed perpetuating an image of emotional invincibility. In fact, there are many people who have seen me laying, probably curled up, on the floor, or perhaps sprawled across a table, sobbing unattractively as only an excess of feelings can cause a person to do. Mostly because of my inability to handle terrifying amounts of kindness and happiness, but sometimes because I’ve been wholly defeated by the day.

KAREN WANG / GRAPHICS EDITOR

It’s not that I don’t tell people what I’m really feeling. I’m not an emotional hermit. I just like to choose when I share, and with whom. If I tell you I’m doing great, when I’m really not, it’s not because I’m afraid the pillars of society will crumble, it’s just because this isn’t the time or place to talk about what’s eating me.

I do encourage you to ask, though. People you really care about, even when those people are strangers. Make sure you really ask, not just a quickly-rattled “whatsup?” Only ask when you want to know the answer, and know that really asking places a responsibility on you, not the answerer.

And that is a responsibility I am willing and happy to take on, all the time. So if you see me around wearing that blue knit sweater, know that despite the bold invitation, its shoulders would welcome your tears.

Plus, I give great hugs.

@samwisegodfrey

FEEDBACK How do you react to being catcalled?

In Feminism for Thought this week, Sophia Topper explores a catch-22 of interacting with strangers.

“I’m super sassy and mean. Pretty blunt.”

Jina Kim, Arts and Science III

“Depends what kind. Sometimes it’s really funny. Other times it’s just annoying.”

Andrea Giampuzzi, Engineering I

“Probably ignore it. If you respond, you’re leading into it. I don’t understand it - it doesn’t work.”

Sharissa Woonsam, Social Psychology II JULIA REDMOND / NEWS EDITOR

“SUCH A BITCH”, A10

Thursday, Oct. 3, 2013

theSil.ca

OPINIONS

A8

The grim reality Tobi Abdul The Silhouette In my favourite book, John Green writes that teenagers are invincible because they cannot be born and they cannot die. This quote resonated with me from the very first time I read it and it gave me a sense of peace for a really long time.

I think this sense of immortality follows us into that limbo between teenage years and inevitable adulthood. Why wouldn’t it?

We are 20-somethings (or nearing 20-something); TV shows are written about us. Articles are published with instructions for what we should do in these 10 years and what we should get out of this decade. We are the over-glorified generation with three times as many days ahead of us than behind us.

Being in this age, I never had to think realistically about death. It was always just a fleeting thought, a sense of curiosity about what it would be like. It was unfathomable that there could be an end, because really, life was just beginning. It shakes you, the first time that you realize you’re not invincible. And not because you will one day die, dying is not the hard part. The hard part is realizing that people that you love aren’t invincible either.

I remember when she told me. I had just gotten in a huge fight with my dad and my mom, being the peacekeeper that she is, took me on a drive. I was ranting and all of a sudden my mother

started to cry and yelled, “You have to get along with your father because I might have cancer and he and your brother may be all you have.” It was so silly to me that she could ever have cancer because I failed to realize that my cloak of invincibility didn’t have a friends and family deal.

Suddenly, death was all that I thought about. Despite the chemotherapy working, every time my mother took a breath, I wondered if it was one of her last. While I obsessed about her breaths, it seemed like I was holding mine until the moment we found out she was in remission.

People who say that we are born alone and we die alone are so incredibly wrong. We are born into unconditional love, with no strings attached, and we die as a piece of everyone that has ever loved us. It’s a year later and the possibility of cancer is once again looming in the air of my household. The thought is crippling.

I had forgotten about my brush with defeat and thought that I was once again unconquerable.

Facing death is not something I want to toy with; we beat him once, but I feel like he’s the kind to come back with a vengeance. I’m not done loving my mom, not done needing her, and not ready to give up the illusion of invincibility. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t terrified but the point isn’t to be scared of dying or of death.

The point is to recognize that we are so powerful because we are powerless. Our ability to be broken is directly tied with our

capacity to love. It is because we love so immensely that this love can break us.

There’s something beautiful in that.

I can spend the next days to come being terrified of the unknown, or I can celebrate this love. The love I see when my dad kisses the top of my mom’s head and then a look of panic crosses his face, fleetingly, as if he’s just remembered he won’t always be able to do that. I see it when I bite my tongue when my mom is so politically incorrect, because I’d rather listen to her be so blatantly wrong than not at all. I see it when my brother teases her about something and then double checks to make sure he hasn’t hurt her feelings.

We are too intelligent of a species to be concerned with things as irrelevant as death.

Death is powerless. It cannot erase memories or diminish love.

Family, love, faith: these are the most powerful things we have. It may sound cliché but the truth can never be exhausted; and the truth is that there are things out there that can and will rock you to your core. We are not invincible. We can break.

But we break because we love. Whether it’s your family,

your job, a significant other, your pet;

whatever it is, be thankful to have something that you love enough to miss. Pain fucking sucks. But the alternative? Not caring enough to be hurt?

It’s unfathomable. I love my mom.

And for now, that’s enough.

Let students speak for themselves Eric Gillis SRA Social Sciences $10.86. That, so it would seem, is the cost of frustrating the leaders of five student organizations and igniting a heated debate amongst Student Representative Assembly members.

On Sept 29, the SRA engaged in a lengthy debate about the prospect of amending the Financial Affairs bylaw to enforce external groups to post online budgets and partake in triennial referendums, which I feel was absolutely worthy of having by all means. These proposed amendments that were the centre of the debate Sunday evening definitely generated some good discussion. As an SRA Member who literally had the word “transparency” emblazoned on his campaign posters, it goes without saying I am entirely behind mandatory online budgets.

But I take issue with the proposed triennial fee referendums. It was mere days before the debate was to take place that an article in The Silhouette revealed to those not in the “McMaster Student Union Bubble” (read: most students) for the first time the news that the MSU‘s Finance Committee desired to force referendums every three years on the student body of McMaster at large, questioning them as to whether they wished to continue the funding of certain “external” student organizations that are funded by students in addition to their tuition and MSU fees every year. By the debate, I had the opportunity to hear arguments from both those utterly against the idea of triennial referendums, and those passionately for it.

I found that those against the referendums were overwhelmingly declaring that the groups were not properly consulted in the process of creating this triennial referendum proposal — which I am inclined to agree

with given the protest that was presented to the SRA from their respective leaders — and furthermore that they did not feel the triennial referendums would facilitate sufficient feedback for these organizations to significantly utilize and take into consideration.

From those supportive of the triennial referendum being enacted, I primarily heard the declaration that by allowing the referendums, we would be entrusting and empowering McMaster students to express their opinions on the relevance of these fees.

And I have to agree with the spirit of that argument-- students clearly deserve such an opportunity. But I disagree with the proposed process of doing so.

I think students, and my fellow SRA members, need to recognize that had we

ended up passing the proposed referendum amendments we would not have really been empowering students as was made out to be the case.

Why? For several reasons, most importantly that there currently already exists a method for students to have these fees brought to referendum should they feel they are no longer relevant to them. Secondly, members of the SRA — the apparent representatives of students themselves — can initiate such a referendum with a two-thirds vote at any time. Finally, the majority of these external fees can essentially be refused to be paid as it currently stands if students should so wish. This is because OPIRG, which is one of the aforementioned groups, receives $7.57 out of the $10.86 in external fees and allows all students that desire to opt-out to do so.

Even with that being the case, I

heard from proponents of enacting these triennial referendums that students are intelligent and can make their own informed decisions. I agree entirely.

I believe in the ability and intelligence of students to make their concerns and voices heard by these groups, and furthermore believe that if they so desire to initiate such referendums on whether or not to continue funding these groups, they will do so, as is their right as MSU members, of their own accord.

Because of that belief I have to say that I find it disingenuous that the proposed changes that would have forced referendums every three years were in the spirit of empowering McMaster’s intelligent, critically-thinking students. What we would have truly been doing by passing these changes is deciding that students cannot make their own informed decisions.

If we believe that students can make informed decisions, which I believe that my fellow students and assembly members do, I do not see why we would then feel the need to essentially coddle them into the referendum process by initiating referendums on their behalf.

Truly, I have to say that I find it to be rather hypocritical that some would think it fair or just that the MSU, as an organization whose members have no absolutely no ability to choose whether or not to pay significant fees to it on an annual basis, should feel it appropriate to require these “external” student groups to constantly seek student approval via mass referendum of their fees.

It’s a double standard.

KAREN WANG / GRAPHICS EDITOR

Thursday, Oct. 3, 2013

theSil.ca

OPINIONS

A9

Meritocracy leaves behind disadvantaged minorities Bianca Caramento The Silhouette Liberal democracies continue to advocate equality. Yet, minority groups still have difficulties getting accepted to the positions they apply for. Whether it is for a job or a spot in university, minority admissions are substantially lower than their counterparts. In an increasingly competitive job market, with employers expecting more and more from their applicants, how do we justify minority privilege? Excuse the oxymoron.

What I mean to say is: how does one justify rendering the positions of otherwise more experienced or skillful applicants for the sake of diversity? Should a minority applicant be able to snatch the position from a better qualified white male? Some would argue yes. This process is otherwise referred to as affirmative action.

Affirmative action aims to make up for years of mistreatment, by granting minorities positions, regardless of whether they are less qualified than their privileged rivals. Others believe in a system of meritocracy. Meritocracy aims to grant positions to those who are the most qualified for the job. Since merit has no race, gender, etc., meritocracy supporters often argue that this system is best aligned with liberal notions of equality. I would like to question both of these systems and offer what I believe to be a

fair solution. their parents were incapable of To describe what I believe is helping out with homework? This a great example of meritocracy, unique disadvantage would affect I would like to cite none other the child’s opportunity to do well than our very own McMaster in school and earn comparable University’s Admissions Policy. At grades.

McMaster, the Office of the RegIn the work field, how exactly istrar receives nothing other than does an immigrant minority coma student’s grades upon deciding pete with the merit of their privadmission. In fact, each student ileged competitors if their family is reviewed under complete anodid not have the financial means nymity. The applicants’ names are to enroll them in college? not disclosed. Instead, applicants My point is this: meritocracy are allocated a number. This erasfails to sustain equal opportunity es the aspects of an applicant’s when the equal opportunity to identity that could potentially earn merit does not exist. provide grounds With this for discrimiin mind, I nation; mainly, hope to actutheir gender and alize the goal “Meritocracy fails to ethnicity. of affirmative This policy sustain equal opportunity action, through allows for merit the means of when the equal to be the sole a reformed opportunity to earn merit meritocracy. factor in dictating acceptance.

By establishing does not exist” While this merithe means for tocratic policy is underprivileged commendable, minorities to it overlooks a key flaw. This flaw earn the same merit as their privis visible in most meritocratic ileged counterparts, meritocracy processes. can work to sustain equality and Our current system of meridiversity. This is particularly the tocracy, whether it goes so far as case when anonymity is used in to include anonymity or not, fails the application process. Instead of to account for the ongoing obstagranting acceptance to less qualicles that face minorities. Consider fied individuals, for the sake of dithe following; if two students are versity and rewriting past wrongs, applying to McMaster, one of may the best applicant win. which is privileged, the other is After all, what need is there a Native minority. How exactly for a gravy train if everyone has is the minority student supposed access to the ingredients? to achieve competitive grades if

“

ELIZA POPE / ASSISTANT PHOTO EDITOR

An academic journey Living and learning in new places can change your outlook on life Karen Piper The Silhouette In 1492, Christopher Columbus embarked on a journey to find a new route for British trade ships to sail to India. However, he inadvertently ended up crossing the Atlantic Ocean, all the way to the New World: the Caribbean Islands and the Americas. Columbus was astonished to discover that that these minute islands were already inhabited.

Like Columbus, many times in life we set forth on a journey with a specific goal or destination in mind, but some unexpected obstacle may alter our original course, thereby leading us to stumble upon something even more fascinating and worthwhile.

This is exactly what happened to me when I commenced my academic journey. I had everything strategically planned.

I am from the beautiful island of Saint Lucia, which is

known as a world-renowned wedding and honeymoon destination.

I decided to pursue an associate degree in Travel and Tourism at the island’s community college.

Well, I am sure you have heard industry professionals claim that no amount of classroom theory compares to practical training, and they are quite right. After completing two internships at leading five star resorts on the island, I decided that this field was not right for me.

In 2011, through the help of an island scholarship, I began an entirely new educational experience: pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance at the City University of New York (CUNY).

Prior to this event, I worked at a bank in Saint Lucia for two years.

It was at then I discovered my love for the banking and finance industries. At this point you may be wondering why I am enrolled at McMaster University in 2013.

Along the way, I soon realized that life in New York as a student did not correlate with my personality or lifestyle. Now, before you judge me, let me just say that – like many emblazoned shirts - I love New York. But being a student there means costly travel expenses due to long train rides to and from school, not to mention the burden of finding accommodations as the majority of universities there do not offer campus housing.

My fundamental point here is that life is all about finding out what works best for YOU. After all, it is YOUR life.

This is why I

made the decision to enroll at McMaster University.

It occurred to me that this is the opportune time to travel and obtain a diverse educational profile. It is true that I struggled to fit into the culture of New York; however, being in such an environment forced me to grow both personally and intellectually. As a result, I am a much better manager of time and money.

At the end of the day, I feel as if I am three people in one: Saint Lucian of course, a former New Yorker and now, up-andcoming Canadian. Moreover, when potential employers recognize that you have studied or lived in multiple countries, they ultimately establish that you are a risk-taker and someone who can adapt swiftly to change, being able to handle uncertainty. A valuable asset.

As young people we need to exploit the advantages that our youth affords us. We should dare to learn of new cultures: music, fashion, art, dance and so forth.

It is not always about where you end up, but the experiences and the wealth of knowledge acquired along the way. In addition, during these occurrences, we should also be respectful of cultural diversity and various ethnic traditions. This is how we develop our character and learn from each other. Some of you may be thinking of doing an exchange program in which you attend school in Italy or France or wherever.

Go for it. This occasion will change your outlook on life and expand your comfort zone beyond where you thought possible.

We don’t grow when we are comfortable or stagnant. There is an entire globe out there, explore it, cherish it, respect it, and use it to your full advantage. The world is your oyster.

And mine as well.

theSil.ca

Thursday, Oct. 3, 2013

OPINIONS

A10

Double-edged sword

Sophia Topper The Silhouette Women are either stupid, or bitches.

Let’s start with the second option. Try walking down the street with your mother. You pass a man on the corner who calls something out. He sounds aggressive, so you don’t respond. He follows you for two blocks, shouting at you. You’re so stuck up. So rude.

Such a bitch.

You blame yourself. If you had just said hi, maybe he wouldn’t have followed you. If you had only smiled, maybe he wouldn’t have humiliated you in front of your family. Next time, you’ll be nice.

One day, you’re walking to the library. It’s a Thursday at 11 p.m. You’re about to cut through the student centre when a seemingly friendly guy asks if you’re going out tonight. Tell him that you wish you were, but you’re heading to the library. He says he’s sad. He doesn’t know anyone. He wants someone to hang out with.

This makes you sad too, because in this option, you aren’t a bitch.

You’re nice this time. You invite him to walk to the library with you. His face lights up, and he agrees.

He begins to walk, guiding you through the alley next to MUSC. You’re slightly caught off-guard, but assume that this way is faster. After all, you’re a frosh who’s only been on campus for two weeks. You go through the usual welcome week questions: what’s your name, your hometown, your faculty, your year. His answers surprise you. You think he says an upper year, but you aren’t sure, his accent is hard to parse. He begins to ask you questions. They aren’t the standard welcome week questions. Do you have a boyfriend? You look

around. You’re lost. It’s dark.

Of course you do, you reply.

Your guard is finally up. Yeah, he goes to Mac. No, you’d never cheat on him. You crane your neck, looking for something you recognize or a building that seems open. He asks you another question. This time you can’t parse it.

He awaits an answer. You offer a quiet ‘uh huh’, which apparently invites him to grab your waist.

His other hand clamps onto the back of your head, and cigarette ash falls into your hair. His mouth presses against yours, and his stubble scratches your cheek. You freeze. An eternity later, he breaks away. He asks you if you can feel it. No. He says he can, and his hand moves south. You stride away. He doesn’t follow.

When you finally reach the library, you walk over to your table of friends, and ask if anyone has mouthwash. Gum would do.

Maybe mints? They are perplexed, and you head to the bathroom. A girl follows you. You lean over the stained sink and splash water onto your face and into your mouth.

You tell her what happened. She asks how you could be so naïve.

So stupid.

You wash your own mouth out with soap.

Women can’t win. We’re expected to be nice and polite, friendly and welcoming. “How’s it going, girl?” from the guy leaning on the bus shelter. If you respond, you’re encouraging it. You’re engaging. You’re asking for whatever comes next. We’re expected to ‘protect ourselves’. But who are we protecting ourselves from?

We should be safe making friends on our own campus. We should be safe exchanging a few pleasantries while we wait for the bus. We should be able to be as guarded or as friendly as we like, without worrying about the repercussions.

BEN BARRETT-FORREST / MULTIMEDIA EDITOR

theSil.ca

Thursday, Oct. 3, 2013

OPINIONS

A11

Wrecking havoc Overlooking important world news in favour of pop culture gossip keeps us ignorant

Brittany Marlatt The Silhouette Tragedy struck many on the evening of Aug. 25, as millions of people in North America caught sight, even mere glimpses, of twerking, grinding and other feigned sexual acts.

Within minutes, social media outlets began to blow up as appalled viewers criticized Miley Cyrus’ controversial performance with Robin Thicke. Both millionaires took the stage with what was judged to be obscene gestures and questionable attire. For weeks this performance outshone headlines such as “Obama weighs possible military response,” “Hurricane Irene heads toward land,” and “Random shooting spree in New York.” All of these issues seemed to slip past us as we stressed and wondered about the pop princess’s downward spiral.

Why are we so numb to the issues impacting not only ourselves, but millions of people

fighting every day for survival?

Pop culture has worked its way into newspapers, news stations, radio, magazines, film and television. It can be found in curriculums, where educators lead discussions on current events and issues. It can be found on billboards, buses and social networks. Our lives are being consumed with “who wore it best?” “fashion don’ts,” and many more pointless discussions. It seems that people are shying away from what is really important.

I ask that you pull yourself out of

“

“Why are we so numb to the issues impacting not only ourselves, but millions of people fighting every day for survival?”

pop culture and dive into the social and economical crises across the globe.

Issues like militia invasions, poor labour conditions and the stripping of human rights need your awareness and engagement. Take a look around you and see what many have fought for you to have. Take a minute to think about the innocent people of Syria who may surely perish at the U.S.’s “humanitarian” bombs. I ask that you take a minute to think about the people of

Guatemala who have had land stolen from them so the Canadian and US mining companies may collect their gold. I ask that you take a minute and ask yourself, who is fighting for them?

It is great that we have privileges such as forms of entertainment and great that we may enjoy them, but it also important that we acknowledge the individuals who fought for such freedom.

Many of us essentially have all our needs at our fingertips and maybe even more, but for every extra we have, someone out there lacks a basic need. They lack shelter, food, water and equality.

Around us are many opportunities to get involved and simply become educated about the situations occurring around the globe. Most importantly, being educated is a necessary start. We play an important part in most of these issues and can become an even larger part if we actively participate. So let us unplug from pop culture and get plugged into the world around us.

Pro-life tactics questionable Randall Andrejciw The Silhouette Like many, I was shocked and disgusted when I saw the poster of a freshly aborted fetus that the Canadian Centre for Bioethical Reform displayed on the Lincoln Alexander Parkway during the evening rush hour on Sept. 17.

The news that this group showed these pictures outside of Sherwood Secondary School on Sept.

25 – in view of a nearby elementary school – brought the same reaction. I suppose this means that the photos had their desired effect; it caused people to notice it and be shocked at the degree of violence that the fetus had suffered.

It is interesting, and somewhat backward, that this group and others use images of violent death to get their “pro-life” message across. Even within the prolife community, the use of images of aborted fetuses has generated debate, some arguing that those images are the cold, dead truth.

They say that pictures of death are the most effective way of communicating a pro-life message; that is, an abortion ban.

And herein lays the problem.

The goal of the pro-life movement is not solely to ban abortion as it exists in our culture today, although the media would certainly have us believe that. The pro-life movement’s stated goal is to create a culture where human life, from conception to natural death, is recognized as the most fundamental human right and legally

protected as such. Groups that use grisly images only confuse the message of the larger prolife movement. They only put a negative spin on what should be a positive message.

But why is there so much emotional reaction to the pictures? After all, this is Canada, where the abortion debate was settled in 1988. The progressive side just bullies all opponents into submission and sometimes misleads the public in order to obtain their goal of a free and open society. If anything, pho-

tos of aborted fetuses should be shown by pro-choice groups as a trophy of their victory, to show what a progressive, open country they have singlehandedly shaped us into. Right?

I doubt it. Like it or not, the debate about abortion is far from settled. The emotional reactions inspired by the pictures of aborted fetuses at Sherwood and The Linc are a microcosm of Canadians’ feelings about abortion.

An Ipsos Reid poll conducted in 2012 found that 62 per cent of female respondents supported the

introduction of a law that places limits on when a woman can have an abortion during her pregnancy.

Dr. Henry Morgentaler saw “serious ethical problems” with late term abortions, saying that “we want to abort fetuses before they become babies.” Justin Trudeau, whose father decriminalized abortion in Canada, tweeted “Now I’m getting guff from (abortion advocates) because I said I don’t like abortion. Does anyone who’s pro-choice, as I am, really LIKE abortion?”

Regardless of what position

one takes, the abortion debate is one worth having. With every passing year, the decision to remove all abortion laws from Canada’s books appears more and more short-sighted and a reaction designed to placate pro-choice activists, who were more militant than their pro-life counterparts and got their way. The display of aborted fetuses, while ill-advised and not effective for pro-lifers, serves to stir up debate – a debate that many Canadians would prefer to be seen as settled, even though it is anything but.

The banner hung from The Linc’s overpass was composed of the slogan “Abortion Kills Children” and a graphic image labeled as an aborted fetus.

LINDSAY TOMPKINS C/O CBC HAMILTON

NOTSPEC.COM

BABA BOWIE Twelve pages of decadent tribute to our false idol B7-19

THURSDAY OC TOBER 3, 2013

HAMILTON SPECULATOR THE

RESTORING FAITH IN ROD SINCE 1934

LOCAL

Ham-ill-tonne: load of spoiled meat on road A2

WORLD

Scientists conclude: two wrongs make a right A4

COLOUR commentary

Blue is the new black: why your favourite colour is stupid C3

Gloves off on the ice

DATING DIARRHEA

“It’s not you, it’s meat”

NHL decides that the puck-tossing sport has too much hockey

CZECH YO’SEF // SENIOR PHOTO SPECULATOR

Terry is a 22-year old vegetarian who often remembers that one time her uncle said there’s no such thing as a free meal.

Terry Shaw came in fashionably late, making Josh wait an eager ten minutes, perhaps in an effort to create an air of importance about her right off the bat.

Josh: I could tell right away that she was going to be a bit tough, not like my usual type.

Terry: When I sat down he complimented me on my watch, which was a bit jarring at first since I wasn’t wearing one, but I was willing to give him a chance.

They say if love isn’t crazy then it isn’t worth chasing!

Josh: She asked me to take the bib off which was fine by me, I find it’s a great conversation starter, and can really turn heads. I could tell she was a rare gem.

Terry: After he took the bib off he seemed awfully eager to get the

food which is something I really look for in a man. A ravenous appetite can translate well into the bedroom.

Josh: I was floored when all she ordered was a side salad. Where is she going to get the protein that only the succulent sundered flesh of the wild and damned can provide?

Terry: He got a real crazy look in his eyes when the lamb shanks came. Like, serial killer smiling on the bench of a courtroom crazy. I had to put my guard up a little, but I wasn’t ready to call it quits yet.

There’s plenty of fish in the sea but this fisherwoman is getting old!

Josh: She had all the right kinds of curves. Tender, supple flesh and just the right amount of spices.

They left it on the bone which was divine, don’t mess with the breast, as I always say. Perfection.

Terry: At this point he just completely stopped talking and stared into his meal as if he were on a date with the shank, not me.

This guy sure knows how to make

WEATHER HIGH: TIDE LOW: ZOROASTRIANISM Only Cancer can save us now. The good kind.

SHANGRI-LOL, B3

a woman feel appreciated.

Josh: Mmmhmm. I wish I ordered more of these. Figured I’d play it safe since nobody wants to be on a date with a pig. Oh right, was I on a date? Did she leave?

Terry: Is he following me?

No? Good. Man that was some grade-A terrifying shit. The guy was legitimately in love with that lamb. I think he might have some form of latent psychopathy. I was not going to stick around and find out how enthusiastic he might be with a fish taco.

Josh: Oh yeah. God. This is amazing. Best. Date. Ever. I would do it again in a heartbeat. Do they sell pig hearts here? That might taste good. [At this point he stopped speaking and salivated an uncomfortable amount, even for this Speculator.]

Terry: You can’t win ‘em all I suppose. Maybe I’ll have better luck next week. My girlfriend has this friend, Bob, who manages a successful nightclub! Time to break out the dancing heels.

Bullshit

SPECU

Shit Hastings buys a discount ranch only to find that despite his best efforts, he now has a cow, man. See ONLINE

Terry rates Josh Conversation // 2/10 Looks // 6/10 Made you feel safe // - /10 Laugh // nope/10 Overall he was attractive and did directly speak to me for a good ten minutes but he proved that his meat really can’t be beat.

Josh rates Lamb Rarity // 10/10 Looks // 11/10 Taste // 12/10 Lamb // yes/10 If I had one lasting impression of the date it was the dry rub the chef used to trap the moistness of the shank without cutting into it.

U.S. OF NOT TODAY A2

HIPSTER ORIGINALI-TEA A7

PUTIN IN MY NOMINATION

EVERYONE’S WORKING FOR

FOR THE NOBEL A4

HER WEAK END G2

OFF THE RAILS: HOW TO STEAL

COMMON COURTESY WENT

BIKES ON CAMPUS B3

OUT THE WINDOW WHEN YOU

DWARF TOSS-WORD H6

FARTED IN MY FACE B1

READY TO DOUBLE CROSS YOUR MOTHERS AGAINST CHILDREN? EVERYTHING

SHIT HASTINGS Bloody Good Speculator

Josh is a 24-year-old meat “enthusiast” who likes to spend his free time making us feel uncomfortable on public transit.

Josh Carney walked into the restaurant wearing his favourite eating bib, a white cloth fashion statement emblazoned with the phrase “My Meat Can’t Be Beat.”

George Parros bringing iron to the ice in new NHL ruling.

Following the NHL season opener between the Toronto Maple Leafs and Montreal Canadiens, the league office has decided that fighting does not cause enough injuries and is taking steps to fuel the ongoing fight debate.

For every game featured on Hockey Night in Canada, the league will deem two players on each squad to be the designated fighter and then distribute official NHL brass knuckles.

“Currently, there is a discussion amongst the media that fighting is dangerous and causes injuries. We want to show those guys that hey, it could be worse,” said NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman.

The move is being praised by fourth-liners everywhere, who are reported to be collectively licking their chops at the possibility of causing real damage instead of just concussions.

“I can’t wait to get the mitts off five minutes into the first period and really give’r into sombody’s melon,” said Colton Orr. “Honestly, the only thing that could make this announcement better is if Sean Avery was still in the league.”

The league’s intention is to show that fighting is important to fans and will be gauging the crowd’s volumes to show that fights actually get a louder response that winning the Stanley Cup. Don Cherry, the barometer for the sanity of NHL decisions, gave not only one but two thumbs up for the changes.

Derek Boogaard, Rick Rypien and Wade Belak could not be reached for comment.

PER ISSUE: two pieces of eight INCL. HST, PST Do take care not to get scurvy.

Do you know your crossing guard’s name?

Do you know what country they’re from?

What are they telling your kids behind your back?

LOOK BOTH WAYS

Disclaimer: The Hamilton Speculator is a work of satire and fiction and should not under any circumstances be taken seriously. Unless you’re into that sort of thing. Then do what you want. I’m not your dad.

BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE!

S

theSil.ca

Thursday, Oct. 3, 2013

PORTS

B1

Editors Laura Sinclair & Alexandra Reilly Email sports@thesil.ca

@silsports

Phone 905.525.9140 x27117

Cross Country B3

Women’s Rugby B5

BREAKING NEW GROUND For the first time in years, McMaster’s Homecoming game is more than just a celebration. The result could make or break Mac’s playoff chances.

C/O RICHARD ZAZULAK

Alexandra Reilly Assistant Sports Editor Looking back to last season, winning three consecutive games in a row was not at all a concern for the McMaster football club.

Now the Marauders face an uphill battle, attempting to climb out of the OUA basement. The road to the playoffs should not be a difficult one, as their next three opponents collectively own a record of two wins and 14 losses.

The Homecoming game this weekend against the 1-4 Waterloo Warriors is the first in a series of three must-win games for the Marauders. The next three weeks will determine where Mac will sit in the playoff tree.

The squad knows how important the win is not just for

their spot in the standings, but for their fans as well. A convincing win on Homecoming weekend could give confidence to a fan base that is skeptical about the quality of the 2013 Maroon and Grey platoon.

“The homecoming weekend game has always had a lot of attention and you never want to fail on a day like that because of the support and the meaning behind the weekend,” said fifth-year wide receiver Mike DiCroce of the importance of the upcoming weekend.

“Its very important to us to be ready and to show up that day to make everyone who is associated to the program proud,” DiCroce added.

The veteran has solidified himself as a positive contributor,

not only with his on-field performance, but also with his immense focus and understanding of what it takes to pull out a win.

“Coming off the Guelph game we didn’t play consistent football. Having a bad play, drive or quarter is not acceptable when hoping to compete for an OUA title,” said DiCroce of the devastating loss to the Gryphons on Sept. 21.

“All around we just need to be better and keep moving forward not back.”

Assistant Coach Jon Behie understands what it takes to rebuild this team and to help the Marauders complete a comeback.

“Our main focus has to be to get better every day. To try to rationalize our losses or look too far ahead makes no sense,” Behie

said.

“If we take care of the little things on a day to day basis, then the big picture stuff will become much easier down the road.”

At this point, the Marauders can only afford to look forward.

“The next three games present a great opportunity for us to gain some momentum heading in to the playoffs,” Behie said.

“Of course, also at stake is a potential home playoff game.”

McMaster has been marred by injuries to a handful of key players, and they will not be expected to return against the Warriors. However, the coaching staff expects the players to get some reps in before a potential Yates Cup run.

“We are expecting some of our injured players back and are

eager to work them back in to the lineup some time before the playoff run,” Behie said of the hopes for a healthy roster come this weekend and in the weeks to come.

Although the next three opponents the Marauders are scheduled to face hold the bottom three spots in the OUA rankings, the football club is still putting in the necessary preparations in the hopes of setting themselves apart and climbing the standings.

The Homecoming contest kicks off Oct. 5 at 1:00 p.m. at Ron Joyce Stadium @Miss_AReilly

Lancers put an end to Mac’s winning streak Marauders head coach unimpressed with follow-up effort against the Guelph Gryphons William Lou The Silhouette The McMaster men’s soccer team looked to extend their six-game winning streak as they took on the Windsor Lancers and the Guelph Gryphons in this week’s matchups. However, they were treated to a rude awakening.

They rode a wave of momentum into last week’s games, punctuated by a defiant 5-0 victory over the Waterloo Warriors. The sqaud played a team-oriented game; the defenders won their challenges, the midfielders delivered great through-balls, and the strikers finished with regularity.

However, this was not the case in their games against Windsor and Guelph. They were shut out in the Sept. 27 match against the Windsor Lancers despite generating seven shots on target, losing 1-0 on a goal by Windsor’s Derrick Amankwa.

Their sluggish performance carried into Sept. 29 match against the Guelph Gryphons. The first half was arguably a nightmare as the Marauders struggled mightily to get the ball out of the backfield as Guelph’s aggressive challenges resulted in a number of McMaster turnovers. In turn, this put immense pressure on the Marauders back four and keeper Angelo Cavalluzzo.

Guelph’s efforts paid off in the 26th minute when a free kick from just outside the 18-yard box resulted in a fortuitous rebound for Guelph’s Tim Flynn, who made no mistake as he headed

The Marauders look ahead as they prepare to face the OUA top ranked York Lions this weekend.

C/O FRASER CALDWELL

the ball off Cavalluzzo and into the net.

Four minutes later, off yet another McMaster turnover in the midfield, Guelph charged down the pitch and scored once again on yet another header by Flynn.

The Gryphons led 2-0 at the half.

In an effort to generate some offense, and to wake up his team, Coach Dino Perri subbed out his entire attacking four at the half. The fresh legs seemed to do the trick as the substitutes (most notably Gersi Xhuti) managed to generate some scoring chances at the net.

Mac broke through in the 70th minute as Nate Morris another substitute - pounced on a loose ball near the net and scored to cut the lead to 2-1. The Marauders sustained the offensive pressure and netted a tying goal in the 84th minute when Gersi Xhuti scored off a scramble in front of Guelph’s net.

The game ended in a 2-2

draw, bringing McMaster’s record to 6-2-2 on the year. They currently rank third in their conference and fourth in the OUA. After the game, Coach Perri had some critical words to say about his team for their poor performance in the first half.

“They were terrible in the first half. There was no energy, no urgency, no desire to win, no desire to play,” Perri said.

“It was very disappointing, especially from players who you expect to lead the team, and they definitely weren’t there today.”

Perri also spoke about his reasoning for his wholesale substitutions at the half, citing that “[he] took out [his] whole front line because they gave no energy, created no opportunities and didn’t look like they wanted to score so [he] put in four fresh guys who wanted to score.”

He commended the efforts of his substitutes, especially Gersi

Xhuti.

“Everybody up front gave us a lot of energy. [Xhuti] gave us a lot of opportunities with his play and he created some chances, which was what we needed.” Perri said Xhuti, along with fellow substitute Nate Morris scored the two lone goals for the Marauders.

The team now sets its sights on the match against the York Lions on Oct. 5. York currently sits atop the OUA rankings with 27 points. They will be looking to avenge their 1-0 loss to McMaster from earlier in the season.

The York squad has been utterly dominant, averaging 3.8 goals scored per game and only allowing 0.5 goals against per game on the season.

The much-anticipated match up against the Lions kicks off this Sat Oct. 5 at 3:15 p.m.

“

“It was very disappointing, especially from players who you expect to lead the team, and they definitely weren’t there today...”

Dino Perri, head coach of Marauders men’s soccer team

Thursday, Oct. 3, 2013

theSil.ca

B2

SPORTS

HOMECOMING PRIMER

#83

YDS: 479 AVG/G: 95.8% TD: 6

Vandervoort has been an outstanding addition to the Marauders team, and is ranked 6th in the OUA for receiving. He is always in the right spot to catch the ball and he is always counted on to score a touchdown in high-pressure situations like that of Guelph on Sept. 21. Linebackers coach Frank Gesztesi said “he is a big target and can win most jump balls, he is a talented young man and will make a name for himself in this league.” This is exactly what the rookie has done, being recognized weeks ago as the Offensive player of the week, and the Big Mac player of the game.

#30

ATT: 43 YDS: 187 AVG: 37.4%

When Jimmy Hill got injured, Kasean Davis had to step in and fill the role, and he has been great so far at doing just that. He is ranked 21st overall in the league for rushing, and he is one of the fastest guys on the field. He is aggressive, determined, and reliable, and has stepped into his starting role with lots of energy and great performances.

#42

TOT: 25.5 SOLO: 23 ASS’T: 5

SEPTEMBER, 2012 | MAC WINS 68-21

SEPTEMBER, 2011 | MAC WINS 46-20

WATERLOO SUSPENDED FOR 2010 SEASON

SEPTEMBER, 2009 | MAC WINS 52-21

OCTOBER, 2007 | MAC WINS 39-23

SEPTEMBER, 2006 | MAC WINS 60-9

OCTOBER, 2005 | MAC WINS 43-22

YDS: 804 COMPL%: 58.0% TD: 3

Wide Receiver Nick Anapolsky

YDS: 403 AVG/G: 80.6 TD: 2

Running Back Kasean Davis

Running Back Danny Silvestri

ATT: 34 YDS: 228 AVG: 45.6%

Line Backer Aram Eisho

Line Backer Greg Zaitz

29 OF

1

36

NET YARDS COMPLETIONS

#2

The fourth year Guelph native for the Warriors takes on the role of a leader and an experienced veteran for the team. Anapolsky is one of the oldest players on the young Warriors squad, and his knowledge of the game shows in games where he will make numerous receptions and move quickly down the field to score points for the black and yellow.

He is currently ranked 10th in the OUA for receiving.

#36

Waterloo’s third-year homegrown talent has done well for his team, managing to score major some major ground, which has ranked him 17th in the league overall for rushing. He leads his team in touchdowns, with three, and is second overall in scoring with 18 points.

TOT: 33.5 SOLO: 28 ASS’T: 11

#46

The second-year guard Ancaster native is a potent defensive force.

He is ranked eighth overall in the OUA for tackles, and is has the perfect combination of speed, size, and aggression. He will be a major obstacle for the Marauders.

2012 RUNDOWN

3

19 OF

35 SACK

#13

Cook has been dynamite for the Warriors, and is ranked 10th in the league overall for completed passes. The second year Collingwood native has often taken matters into his own hands in numerous games, passing and rushing to score some touchdowns of his own.

Wide Receiver Danny Vandervoort

2012 RUNDOWN 795

Quarterback Jamie Cook

C/O WATERLOO ATHLETICS

Eisho has been a leader and a go-to guy for the Marauders.

He currently leads the team in tackles and is ranked 16th for total tackles in the OUA. He has a ton of experience, being on the team for the last two years and going to the Vanier Cup finals both times. Linebackers coach Frank Gesztesi describes him as the “most instintive LB I have coached in 32 years. He just seems to have a nose for the ball.

He sniffs out plays and gets to the RB quickly. He is slippery and tough to block as a result.”

SEPTEMBER, 2004 | MAC WINS 55-17

Ferguson has been great with the football for the majority of the season, doing a solid job at finding his receivers in the endzone and steering the ship for the Marauders team. In his first year as a starter, he has managed to show that he can throw the football just as good as Quinlan did for the past two years. Earlier in the season, Assistant Coach Behie said “he knows our O better than anyone and is ready to jump into the role.” He has jumped into the role famously, and is ranked third in the OUA for completed passes.

Quarterback Marshall Ferguson

C/O RICK ZAZULAK

#2

YDS: 1694 COMPL%: 65.0% TD: 13

SEPTEMBER, 2008 | WATERLOO WINS 30-17

The 8th place Marauders are set to take on the 9th place Warriors on Sat. Oct. 5th at 1 p.m. at Ron Joyce Stadium They are heading into the game with a record of 2-3, while the Warriors are heading into the game with a record of 1-4.

267

SACKS COMPLETIONS NET YARDS

theSil.ca

SPORTS

Thursday, Oct. 3, 2013

B3

Cross country climbs CIS rankings

C/O PETE SELF

Laura Sinclair Sports Editor The McMaster cross country team took to the trails at the Vic Matthews Open in Guelph this weekend to compete at the largest university cross country meet in Canada.

The men’s team was able to pull off outstanding performances in the 10 kilometer race, while in the absence of three of their best four runners in and still managed to place an impressive third amongst CIS teams.

Lionel Sanders made a statement in his first race of the season, finishing sixth out of a field of 135, with a time of 31:44.

Team-mate Taylor Forbes finished in 17th place in his season debut, with a time of 32:22, which marks an outstanding improvement and a great first race of the season for the veteran triathlete “This year I am approaching my races differently by not allowing myself much rest before

I hit the line” said the multi-sport athlete.

Forbes made sure that he ran a tactical race, preserving energy in the first 5 km, and going hard in the last stretch of the long and tiring race “I did what I set out to do... I went out conservative and started out well back in the mix. Then [I was] able to make my way up to 17th position by the end” For his first race of the season, Forbes was proud to have finished within the top 20, against a very competitive field, and working through the pain to have a strong performance overall.

“I think the race went as well as it could have considering it being my debut race. It hurt like hell that last mile but that is what I expected in a 10k” added Forbes.

Not too far behind Forbes was men’s cross country captain Blair Morgan, who finished in 22nd place with a time of 32:49.

Rookie Paul Rochus ran to a time of 33:04 and finished in 32nd

place overall, and finishing close behind him was veteran Gabe Ghiglione, who finished in 36th place with a time of 33:19.

Rounding out the score for the Marauders was Eric Barry in 45th place and rookie Ivan Meizinger in 54th.

When asked about the potential for a CIS medal, Forbes states he does not want to underestimate the power of the other teams “We try to tread lightly when it comes to thinking about a CIS medal.The way my teammates and I look at it is that we will never know for certain the potential our team has until November 9th, at the Thames valley golf course, and not until then will we make any hard claims” said Forbes.

The men’s team is now ranked fifth in the CIS. On the women’s side, the Marauders finished 6th, without two notable big scorersCourtney Patterson and women’s cross country captain Chelsea Mackinnon.

This year, the course was

C/O PETE SELF

modified for the first time ever to accommodate the new CIS 6km distance, a step up from the 5km distance in previous years.

Maddy McDonald led the charge up front for the Marauders, finishing in tenth place out of 153 runners, with a time of 20:53.

Crossing the line second for the maroon and grey was grad student Kierstin Myers, who finished in 36th place with a time of 22:34.

Not too far behind Myers was rookie Emily Nowak, who finished the course with a time of 22:38.

Raquel Burgess completed the 6 km in a time of 23:02, which was good enough for 53rd place overall, and exchange student Charlotte Ward finished with a time of 23:10, which brought her to 58th place.

Rounding out the top seven runners on the team was Maddie Benjamin, who placed 61st overall, and rookie Adrienne Morgan, who placed 70th.

The women’s team is now

“

“It hurt like hell that last mile, but that is what I expected in a 10-k” Taylor Forbes, veteran on Marauders men’s cross country team

ranked sixth in the CIS. The Marauders cross country team will look to keep up the momentum for their next race this weekend which will be a split race in Waterloo and at the Mustang Open in London, Ont. @Lsinkky

Marauders bottom out RECAP MEN’S SOCCER OUA EAST

OUA WEST W | L | T | PTS

C/O MCMASTER ATHLETICS

Scott Hastie Managing Editor On Sunday Sept. 29, McMaster hosted the University of Guelph women’s soccer team in the squad’s second match-up of the season. The Marauders put forth a memorable performance that day – but not a positive one. McMaster’s display was the worst of the season, displaying no energy or urgency.

Mac dropped the game 2-0, but was lucky to escape with such a tame score line. The reason for the loss was not because they were outplayed by Guelph, but instead that they did not bring the level of effort required to compete in the OUA. To top it off, the match had major implications on the OUA East table, as Mac could have vaulted themselves into second in the conference. Instead, they tumbled to the bottom half of the standings.

Following the loss, head coach Brett Mosen was quick to apologize for the squad’s form and did not mince words when describing the game.

“That game is the low point – performance-wise – since I’ve been at Mac. This is my third season and that was certainly the poorest performance I’ve seen.

We’ve got a lot of work to do to get it right,” said Mosen.

During the match, Maroon

players were at each other’s throats with arms being thrown up constantly and no one hesitating to chew someone out over a poor touch. Mosen realized that team chemistry was bottoming out and called a team meeting for the following day.

“There is always times, after a performance like that, where you have to clear the air. It’s not about me talking in the changeroom, it’s about figuring out what’s going on with the girls. Training the following morning had a much more positive outlook,” the head coach said.

Mosen partially chalks the performance up to a perfect storm of causes. Mac’s previous game required both the men and women’s squads to travel to Windsor, Ont. to take on the Lancers. The women’s side was able to pull out a 1-1 draw but grabbing the point came with a consequence. Mac did not return to Hamilton until 3 a.m. and their fatigue showed in the Gryphon tilt.

The other major contributor was the absence of captain Sophia Ykema due to a concussion suffered in a game against the Western Mustangs. While the third-year player did her best to offer advice from the sideline, Ykema could not force them to elevate their play.

Mosen had some positive

comments after the Guelph loss.

He lauded the play of rookies who have stepped up in what he describes as the “worst season for injuries” the seasoned coach has ever seen. Specifically, he pointed out Anne Yeboah for her talents in the offensive third and speculated that an OUA Rookie of the Year award could be hers in the future.

With six games remaining and four of those on the road, McMaster cannot dwell on the Guelph loss - there simply isn’t enough time to lick wounds. As of Oct. 2, Mac sits tied for fourth in the standings and still has to play Laurier, York and nationallyranked Western, all away from Ron Joyce.

McMaster’s coaching staff will not waver from their original expectations and suspects the Gryphon drubbing to serve as a reality check for the team.

“The bubble has burst. Hard work has to come out now and make sure we’re still in contention to get into the playoffs,” Mosen said. @Scott1Hastie

RYERSON LAURENTIAN CARLETON QUEEN’S NIPISSING TORONTO TRENT RMC

7 5 5 4 2 1 1 1

0 1 2 2 5 4 7 5

1 2 2 2 1 2 1 1

22 17 17 14 7 5 4 4

W | L | T | PTS YORK GUELPH MCMASTER WINDSOR LAURIER WESTERN UOIT BROCK WATERLOO

9 7 6 4 4 4 1 0 0

1 1 2 2 2 3 8 7 9

0 3 2 3 3 2 1 3 1

27 24 20 15 15 14 4 3 1

WOMEN’S SOCCER OUA EAST

OUA WEST W | L | T | PTS

OTTAWA TORONTO CARELTON QUEEN’S LAURENTIAN RYERSON RMC NIPISSING TRENT

8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0

0 2 2 1 3 5 6 6 11

2 1 2 3 3 1 1 3 0

26 22 20 18 15 10 7 6 0

W | L | T | PTS WESTERN GUELPH LAURIER WINDSOR YORK MCMASTER UOIT BROCK WATERLOO

5 6 4 4 3 3 3 2 1

0 5 2 3 2 2 5 4 8

4 0 3 2 5 5 2 4 1

19 18 15 14 14 14 11 10 4

FOOTBALL

WOMEN’S RUGBY

OUA

OUA W | L | PTS

WESTERN GUELPH QUEEN’S WINDSOR OTTAWA TORONTO YORK MCMASTER WATERLOO LAURIER CARLETON

6 5 4 4 3 2 2 2 1 1 0

0 0 1 2 3 4 3 3 4 5 5

12 10 8 8 6 4 4 4 2 2 0

W | L | PTS QUEEN’S GUELPH WESTERN MCMASTER WATERLOO YORK TRENT BROCK LAURIER TORONTO

2 2 1 1 1 1 1 1 0 0

0 0 1 1 1 1 1 1 2 2

10 9 5 5 5 5 4 4 1 1

SPORTS

Thursday, Oct. 3, 2013

theSil.ca

B5

No. 1 ranked Guelph trumps Mac Despite a strong team effort from Mac the Gryphons were able to prove why they are ranked first overall Alexandra Reilly Assistant Sports Editor Despite a strong effort from the Marauders on Sept. 28, their efforts were no match for the CIS top ranked Guelph Gryphons who unloaded a 44-27 victory on the McMaster crew.

The Marauders are now 2-2 on their season and tied with York for second overall in the OUA’s Russell Division rankings.

For the first time this season, Guelph was forced to battle back as the Marauders put up a hefty fight keeping the game close for 40 minutes.

Senior winger Madolyn Vande Pol put forth a commending effort scoring a team high ten point in the opening half.

Team Captain Cindy Nelles came out with a try helping McMaster head into the break only trailing the Gryphons by two.

The second half would show the Gryphons domination and showcase just why they are the No. 1 ranked squad.

Guelph would pick up the pace and only expand the lead further out of McMaster’s grip.

Last week’s Athlete of Week Stephanie Black, scored a total of five points in the second half on a convert and penalty goal.

Cindy Nelles would once again solidify herself as a crucial leader to the squad as she commended them for their efforts and would only take this game as a learning opportunity to improve.

“I think that we have put forth a very good effort as a team and have really done a great job to improve during our very short season,” said Nelles “We have a whole lot of potential within the players that are committed to the program and I can see huge gains in the future if we can continue with our hard work ethic,” Nelles added.

Looking forward, Nelles is well aware of her role as team captain and understands the

Cindy Nelles has solidified herself as captain this season with her leadership skills both on and off the field. C/O FRASER CALDWELL C/0 FRASER CALDWELL

immense importance of their next three matches in securing them a play off spot.

“The next three games are the most important games of our season and my main focus as the captain is to ensure that the players remain focused on the team and team’s goals,” Nelles said.

McMaster will welcome the York Lions to Field F this weekend as they battle against the team, with whom they currently remain tied with for second place.

Kick off is set for 12 p.m. on Sunday Oct. 6.

“

“The next three games are the most important games of our season and my main focus as the captain is to ensure that the players remain focused on the team and team’s goals.”

Cindy Nelles, captain for the McMaster women’s rugby team

TOP PERFORMERS OUA RANK*

NAME

GP : GAMES PLAYED GS : GOALS SCORED TR: TRIES

CO: CONVERSIONS PG: PENALTY GLS PTS: OUA POINTS

GP | GS | TR | CO | PG | PTS

1

STEPHANIE BLACK

4

1

7

12

1

62

4

CINDY NELLES

4

1

6

2

0

34

11

SARAH FARQUHARSON

4

1

4

0

0

20

*OUA rank based on points scored

@Miss_AReilly

Men’s rugby breaks Brock McMaster’s rugby team came out triumphant and moves to .500 on the season

C/O YING SHAN

Laura Sinclair Senior Sports Editor The Marauders rugby team held on to a lead against the visiting Brock Badgers on Sept. 28, and won the game with a score of 2219 on the Back Ten field.

The win was no easy task for Mac, as the Badgers got off to the first lead in the 18th minute of play when Brock’s Connor Fitzsimmons scored a try and a successful convert to make the score 7-0 for the Badgers.

Their early 7-0 lead was short-lived, however, as Marauders Captain Andrew Ferguson scored a penalty kick five minutes later to narrow the score to 7-3, and the maroon and grey kept the momentum for the remainder of the first half.

Richard Ormrod scored the team’s first try, and Ferguson kicked through the convert, making the score 10-7 for Mac. The second half did not start off well for the Marauders, after letting the advantage slip in

favour of the Badgers with a try giving the visiting team a 14-10 lead.

But the Marauders were unstoppable on their home turf, and didn’t let the Badgers lead last long, as they regained control of the game, scoring 12 points in eight minutes of play.

Davor Stojanov scored a try for Mac in the 60th minute, and Ferguson added a try as well seven minutes later.

The second convert made the score 22-14 for McMaster.

The Badgers were not finished yet, however, as they pressured the Maroon and Grey with only a couple minutes left in the game.

They scored a try in the 72nd minute of play, which narrowed the score to 22-19 for Mac. That was as close as the Badgers would get however, as the Marauders managed to hold their lead for the remainder of the game, and come out on top with a 22-19 final score.

Next up for the Maroon and

Grey will be a road trip on Oct. 5 to Kingston, Ont. to visit the undefeated Queen’s Gaels. Kick-off will be at 1 p.m. @Lsinkky

RELAY FOR LIFE @ McMaster Campus

March 14, 2014 Sign up atwww.relayforlife.ca/mcmaster

HAMILTON BRAIN INJURY ASSOCIATION

OCTOBER 2013

Upcoming Schedule of Clubhouse Activities

WELCOME SURVIVORS, CAREGIVERS, & LOVED ONES! Here is a list of groups, activities, clubs, seminars and workshops available for October.

If you wish to participate and/or volunteer please contact us at any time!

Take note that we are beginning a third Support Group on Wednesday afternoons and we are starting up our Young Adult Support Group!

or visit our website for our online calendar and details: www.hbia.ca

Would you like to be featured in Community Connections?

Send your request to Leeann Corbeil, Director of Marketing and Community Relations. E: leeann@findlaylaw.ca

PH: 905.522.9799 ext. 248

Findlay Attorneys. 20 Hughson St. S., Suite 510, Hamilton, Ontario, L8N 2A1 Findlay Attorneys will determine which agency or group will be included based on a first come, first serve basis and at the discretion of Findlay Attorneys.

Findlay Attorneys cannot guarantee inclusion of any materials submitted and therefore accepts no responsibility for any ad or information exclusion. Materials should be submitted at least two weeks prior to date of publishing.

L

Thursday, Oct. 3, 2013

theSil.ca

IFESTYLE

B7

Editors Amanda Watkins & Miranda Babbitt

Threadcount

B11

Email lifestyle@thesil.ca Phone 905.525.9140 x27117 Style at Mac

B12

A TRULY MARAUDER HANGOVER Is homecoming incomplete without the drink?

Amanda Watkins LifeStyle Editor It was homecoming weekend.

There I was at 9 in the morning, dancing to Nicki Minaj and far from my normal sober reality.

My housemates and I were hosting our own informal house party to get ready for the football game as we passed around a can of something called “Sucker Punch” and a tube of maroon lipstick. Because hey, what’s a little oral herpes among friends?

The concept of “day drinking” was foreign to me, and quite frankly, I had no idea that a football game and face paint also

meant we needed to start hitting the Sambuca 12 hours earlier than normal.

Prior to starting university, I led a pretty alcohol-free and sports-free life. And although I wasn’t all too familiar with either of these worlds, a part of me knew that they weren’t always grouped into one.

As we eventually made our way to campus to watch the game, I was greeted by a string of piss drunk students who, in addition to making me feel sorry for toilet bowls across Hamilton, also made me feel a lot better about my own alcohol tolerance. Everyone had their Mac sweaters on and

seemed to be pretty jazzed, but a lot of people seemed completely oblivious to what would be going on that day.

Homecoming means showing school spirit. It’s a time to welcome back alumni and celebrate your school with your classmates and friends. It could mean decking yourself out in maroon and grey, or learning the obscure lyrics to the McMaster anthem, but getting sick from the drink seems like a burnout excuse for enthusiasm. Alcohol is fun and delicious.

I will say that openly without feeling shameful or like a washed up Disney star. But I will also say that I know it’s not a necessary part of

having school spirit.

As fun as it was to be drunk in the wee hours of the morn’, it was also kind of sad. My friends and I left the game at halftime because we all felt like shit. And by 6:00 in the evening, we were all lying on the ground, completely hung-over from the morning passed.

As fun as it is to escape from reality for a while, being wasted all the time makes you lose sight of what we’re actually here for.

And so, with that being said, I announce my quest for sobriety. For the next month, I will be leading a completely alcohol-free life. And yes, that does include Halloween.

You don’t need to follow my example, especially seeing as we’ve laid out this week’s issue with a kick-ass Mac-inspired drink, beer reviews and hangover cures. But as you indulge in our suggestions and advice, just be safe, use your judgment and remember that this weekend we’re all coming together to respectfully celebrate our school.

So thank you, alcohol, for helping make and erase a long string of memories. But I think it may be time for things to change. @whatthekins

DRINK LIKE A EUROPEAN Oktoberfest festivities are dwindling to an end.

Go German this homecoming season.

Gone are the days of “Porn Stars” and “Banana Jacks”. Mainstream shots are hardly enough for a true Marauder.

Follow this mix for a one of a kind maroon-coloured shot that will impress everyone student, regardless of year or morals.

1/2

oz

PEACH SCHNAPPS

1/2

VODKA

oz 1

oz

Hacker-Pschore’s Munich Gold

Bitburger

DAB Dortmunder Export

This light lager is a crowd pleaser even among non-beer drinkers.

It’s apple-y aroma makes it a smooth transition for those of you who have yet to stray from the cider. Smooth and light, you cant’t go wrong with a Hacker.

This light draft has a mild fizz and goes down relatively easy.

We unanimously decided it had a bit of a “stinky foot-ish” scent.

But overall, it went down smooth despite the fizz and foot.

With a dark yellow colour, this beer is reminiscent of an unhealthy urine sample. Its strong smell and grainy texture made it less enjoyable than most. But a weak aftertaste could make a purchase worthwhile.

Celebrator

Schneider Weisse’s Original

Hofbrau Munchen Original

Aside from having adorable packaging, this beer’s thick texture and molasses-y flavour made it go down like a smooth cappuccino.

It smells a bit like soy sauce and leaves a strong aftertaste, but the sweet and unique flavour make it worth a try.

This wheat beer has a herbal, woodsy taste and a generous bottle size. Its pungent scent and sour aftertaste were obvious drawbacks. Although a cinnammon taste made it rather delicious.

With a skunky smell and murky brown colour, this malty brew made for an unpleasant drink.

But on the plus side, it’s toasty flavour and bubbly vibe would make it a staple for cold autumn days.

CRANBERRY JUICE

RECIPE C/O BARTENDER EXTRAORDINAIRE JENNIFER BACHER

Reviewed by: Jennifer Bacher, Ben Barrett-Forrest, Brianna Buziak, Stephen Clare, Sam Godfrey, Laura Sinclair, Amanda Watkins

SIL-CERTIFIED HANGOVER CURES

Karen Wang

Sam Godfrey

Emily Scott

Yoseif Haddad

Alex Reilly

“Pho.”

“Pancake House gossip sessions.”

“Subway and massive amounts of coffee.”

“Obsessive cleaning and doing laundry.”

“McDonald’s hashbrows, the Discovery Channel and Advil.”

Graphics Editor

Opinions Editor

Video Editor

Photo Editor

Sports Editor

Thursday, Oct. 3, 2013

theSil.ca

LIFESTYLE

B9

INSIDEOUT

Embracing both fear and failure Despite personal challenge, Lisa Pope made her mark in Panama

Miranda Babbitt Assistant LifeStyle Editor The years spent in university are often said to be those where we first come face-to-face with the “real world”, characterized by a transitioning period from teenage angst, to even more angst, to grappling with who we are and, finally, shaking hands with the real world as the person we want to be. A myriad of experiences will come together to shape us into this person. It does not happen overnight, nor will it happen easily, but each of these experiences is vital in challenging us to discover who we really are.

The key word here is challenge. Highlight this word. Cut out this word. Be friends with this word. Because to overcome something that you are afraid of is to be able to look back and say, “I persevered, and now my mark is here.”

And these people who have left their mark, despite challenges, are all around us. Some write about it, some talk about it, some wait for the right moment before discussing it at all. McMaster University is the home to a plethora of individuals with such stories. But the story of Lisa Pope is one we are privileged enough to share with you, and, in fact, it’s not so much a story as it is an invitation to challenge yourself.

Lisa Pope, a graduating Honours Life Sciences student, dedicated her summer to the Kalu Yala Independent Study Abroad and Entrepreneurial Internships in Panama this past

summer.

Drawing people from across the world, Lisa was one of the only individuals from Canada. This diversity, however, encouraged the integration of distinct ideas that could build towards the common goal that was uniting them all: the creation of Kalu Yala, and thus developing the world’s most sustainable town.

The program is incredibly unique among international outreach initiatives in that it gives each team member an opportunity to be highly independent in how they choose to take part in the creation of Kalu Yala. Lisa was a member of the Agriculture team, made up of thirty students who came to get their hands just about as dirty as an outreach program can get them. Living in a jungle for three months, all while putting in both labour of the body and mind into a personally developed initiative, can take physical and psychological tolls on any team member. Lisa, however, took on a challenge perhaps more brutal than the typical member as she is on the verge of a Crohn’s disease diagnosis.

Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease, where those affected are subject to severe abdominal pain, bowel disruptions, and even malnutrition.

Given the strenuous nature of this program, another set of challenges could appear more repellent than enticing; instead of allowing her symptoms to hold her back, Lisa used her pain as a catalyst for unparalleled personal growth.

“I’m 23 years old living with a chronic disease and it’s something that’s never going to go away,” said Pope. “At this point, you decide to live your life or not, and this was my summer to do that. I decided to go and be in control of my disease.” In a location far removed from any

imprint on her.

By planting over 300 different edible species of plants and

trees, the impact her project will have upon the community in five to 10 years is momentous. Approximately 150 people will be fed daily as a result of her own hardships and hard work. And yet, perhaps the most striking message Lisa has taken home with her is not only the acceptance of failure at Kalu Yala, but also the desire for it.

“We love to fail at Kula Yala,” Pope said. Coming from a Science degree, where marks are snatched up without a second thought for any mistakes, and there is no gray area between the black and white of correct or wrong, this was a breath

of fresh air. To fail was to succeed, and this paradoxical message can resonate with most students as wholly liberating.

With failure, the members of Kalu Yala would not look at such a position as the defeated finish line, but rather an opportunity to start again, and allotting their knowledge of what won’t work as a propelling force towards success.

“If that means shooting for the stars and failing, that’s fine,” said Pope. “We shot for the stars and we realized that didn’t work C/O LISA POPE

so well, so we just have to figure out what we can do next time to make it better.”

In an eight-hour day, with four spent in the morning working alongside a director of the team, and the afternoon dedicated to the dirty work, there were three unmistakable qualities of the interns at Kalu Yala Independent Study Abroad and Entrepreneurial Internships: passionate, positive, and pursuing.

Lisa Pope is an embodiment of such qualities, and although her self-proclaimed “invisible disease” has inevitably placed a series of unforgiving obstacles in her path, these qualities are in the foundation of the new path she’s building herself.

Every path a student will take in university is distinct from the next, and the obstacles just as varied.

The lesson to be taken from Lisa Pope and Kalu Yala is that no challenge can act as a barrier to leaving your mark in the world, but that challenges are forces that will leave your mark even more palpable. @mirandababbitt

piece together a sustainable future

Western world comforts or distractions, Lisa delved into a project that would eventually lead to a 75page document, building a vast medicinal garden with her own hands, and leaving behind her own mark in a community that will forever leave an indelible C/O LISA POPE

what is mscsm?

The MScSM degree is a 20-month graduate program for individuals interested in management careers in sustainability-related divisions and organizations.

$ COSTUMES

14

99

Visit our website for the details of the program and to mark the calendar dates for our visit to your campus.

AND UP

HAMILTON │58 Centennial Pkwy N │980 Upper James St BURLINGTON │3350 Fairview St │StagShop.com

university of toronto Mississauga mscsm.utm@utoronto.ca | 905-569-5803 | www.utm.utoronto.ca/mscsm

theSil.ca

SEXandthe STEELCITY Julia Busatto The Silhouette We’ve all been there, that moment when you get that special person’s number and the texting escapades begin.

Texting someone new feels like venturing into an unknown territory. It’s exciting, but proceed with caution, my friends. A lot more than you may know is conveyed through a simple “lol.”

Communication is easily lost through your iPhone screen and texting can be a recipe for disaster if handled by over zealous, unintelligible fingers. You’ve got to play the game, and you better be good at it.

So let’s run through some scenarios to help you maintain the interest of that particular lady, or not send that poor lad running to Compass for the earliest bus ticket out of the city.

When first interested in someone, they seem to be the only thing occupying your mind.

However, you cannot let them know through your texts that you

Thursday, Oct. 3, 2013

B10

LIFESTYLE

The texting game

The textiquette of today’s saucy messaging world feel this way. Texting someone once or twice every couple of days at first is flattering, but texting them multiple times every single day is excessive.

What the other person comprehends from your texts may be false, but gives a negative impression nonetheless. The common, “What are you doing? What are you doing now? What’s up? How was class? What are you up to tonight?” texts that come in spurts every couple hours is a little much don’t you think? Don’t be a time consuming texter.

Secondly, response time is key. It’s okay to respond right away if the other person is doing the same, but if they delay their response time, delay yours. It’s a little embarrassing when you are always responding back right away, and their responses come every couple hours. To maintain interest, keep your response following the same timing as theirs.

It’s becoming more and more like a game, isn’t it.

Next is the issue of emoticons, and those super keen

texts that thrive in the forms of exclamation marks, extra lettered words, and excessive punctuation.

This may make you appear juvenile, or immature. We all know girls want to text men, not boys.

So expand your vocabulary, and avoid saying lol after every word lol and every sentence. Are you really laughing? Let’s be serious.

Lastly, don’t use your phone to send manuscripts of novels to the person you’re trying to impress. It’s not fun being a little tipsy on a Friday night, and trying to decipher a four page text. Be clear and concise. The only time a huge text is appropriate is when something outrageously funny happens and you’re texting your best friend, or you are giving your mom an extensive breakdown of your day.

If you take my advice I guarantee you, you will snag the person you’re trying so hard to “wheel.” Remember texting isn’t an art, it’s a strategic game.

YOSEIF HADDAD / PHOTO EDITOR

Dear McMaster Emailing System, Karen Piper The Silhouette I am a second-year Commerce student who recently transferred from another university. And ever since I started off here, there has been one thing I haven’t been able to ignore. I have received over 70 emails from McMaster. Within one month.

Now, I do not want to be misunderstood as someone who isn’t technologically savvy and not embracing the culture of electronic communication - trust me, I am. However, when does it

become too much information?

Have you ever heard of the “use it or lose it” phenomenon? It means that even if our brains have an astonishing storage capacity of one million gigabytes (yes, it has been researched). If we deem the information not to be relevant or meaningful, chances are we are not going to remember it. The fundamental fact here is that many students disregard a significant proportion of emails from this school. It’s a little sad, but extremely true.

Before I continue, I must propose a solution. To stop this

annoying bombardment of information, each faculty, discipline or club should summarize their information, reminders and invitations into weekly emails, or even bi-weekly emails. That’s it, no more.

One may say that sending an email once a week may cause students to forget the information the email was relating to them.

And although that is in fact a valid criticism, it is ultimately up to the receiver of such information to determine what is imperative knowledge and potentially beneficial.

For instance, an email received from International Student Services about Welcome Week activities may be quite valuable to a first year student who wants to actively participate in campus events and become fully acquainted with their new McMaster experience.

However, another first year may just want to settle in quietly without taking part in all the seemingly ‘fun’ activities. This does not mean that sending the same Welcome Week email six times in two to three days will convince the latter student to

engage.

After saying all of this, I hope that someone in a key position to make a change in the volume of emails we are forced to encounter reads this article and comprehends its main idea.

We all have a quest for knowledge and information, but please McMaster, enough is enough. Lay off the emails … at least just a little.

Yours truly, Spam filter’s No. 1 fan

confessions of a

Tightrope Walker

Rick Kanary The Silhouette Two years ago, shortly after moving into my current home, I was having drinks in my neighbor’s backyard getting to know everyone else in the neighborhood.

We were all exchanging jokes and stories - as everyone does while getting used to a new environment - learning about each other’s characters and our various idiosyncrasies. As I shared a story, I was approached by the gruff, grey-haired, older man who lives a few houses down. He removed his belt, wrapped the leather around his hand and presented the buckle to me. It was a silver relief of eagles surrounding a slot for a Zippo-style lighter.

“You like this?” He asked.

“Shit, yeah,” I replied.

“Here,” he wrapped the leather around the buckle and handed

it to me.

“You can have it”.

My 68-year-old neighbour, Gerry, is a stalwart and stoic Scottish man renowned for his off the cuff remarks and his clear and concise evaluations of others. He’s rough around the edges, rides a Harley-Davidson, and takes regular vacations to remote campsites in his RV with his wife Gene.

Gerry is an everyman, as far as the literary definition is concerned. Yet he is also incredibly unique and vibrant in his own right. His presence in our enclave-style backyard has always been strong and welcomed. His unique attitude and personality around which the neighbourhood would consistently rally for barbecues and parties. Two months ago, Gerry had a stroke.

The cycle of life. The inevitability of our birth and death. Our vulnerability to disaster or dis-

ease. These events, to the initiated, are synchronous with each other, once chosen to witness in tandem.

Witnessing the interdependence of my family on one another as we grasp to understand Gerry’s situation, is profoundly moving and articulates, on seemingly unseen levels, how much we all need each other. It’s truly undeniable once experienced, but usually not a topic of casual conversation.

Gerry has been fighting this thing tooth and nail, determined to have the full use of his left arm and leg as soon as humanly possible (the latter is returning at a painfully slow rate and he is currently confined to a wheel chair).

He might harass a few nurses in the meanwhile, but I’m sure they won’t complain.

See, Gerry has a massive bankroll. A massive spiritual bankroll, that is. With an over-

whelmingly positive balance - apparent in light of his recent misfortune - the response of his family, friends, and neighbors has been nothing short of beautiful.

Not discounting his personal capacities, all of these people are his strength and resolve. His is an example of character over reputation, of the beauty of life’s abundance being available to those who seek its truths.

As Carl Jung said, “He who looks outside, dreams. He who looks inside, awakens”.

I suppose, with these words, I am mining for an ore of balance.

An ore that, once refined to a precious metal, I believe can help to discern a unique and personal definition of abundance (I would use the term ‘wealth’, but that word is antiquated in my humble opinion).

You see, Gerry is not financially “well-to-do” but makes a

good living and provides for his family. As far as I can see, they don’t really want for anything.

Gerry and I have a lot in common. He is rich in ways I hope to be and impoverished in ways neither of us could give a shit about.

In many ways, I am in the same boat as Gerry; my sons and stepdaughter don’t go without and occasionally receive a little something extra to remind them that they are loved and special. These are spiritually fulfilling examples of life’s potential abundance.

Philosophical rambling aside, I’m trying to say something simple. Open a spiritual account.

Make deposits. Make good deposits for good reason. Make good deposits for good reason with a good attitude.

Trust me, the interest rates will be through the roof.

theSil.ca

Thursday, Oct. 3, 2013

B11

LIFESTYLE

Joana Fejzaj Fourth-year Social Work

Jacket- Vero Moda Disco Pants- Zara Flats- Zara Jewelery- Guess BEVERAGE OF CHOICE? Champagne FAVOURITE QUOTE? “The soul of the world is nourished by people’s happiness” - Paulo Coelho

YOSEIF HADDAD / PHOTO EDITOR

Free

Weekly Shuttle Bus Starting Sept. 18th

Wednesdays 6:00pm | 6:30pm | 7:00pm Last pick-up from Fortinos at 8:00pm Pick-up From Mary Keyes Residence At The Cootes Dr. Entrance

Look for the Big Yellow School Bus

theSil.ca

Thursday, Oct. 3, 2013

B12

LIFESTYLE

How to win in the game of swag The best and the worst gear for you to sport this Homecoming.

Brianna Buziak The Silhouette All over campus you can hear the buzz of students and faculty alike talking about the upcoming homecoming game against the Waterloo Warriors this Saturday.

If you’re anything like me, you got your ticket well in advance, but forgot one thing: McMaster gear.

Going to homecoming in

THE GOOD

any other colour scheme besides maroon and grey might give off the impression that your loyalty is with another team. To ensure that no one assumes my support lies with our competition, a trip to the Campus Store was definitely in order. If much like this devoted Marauder who left her colours back home, here are last minute items to add to your homecoming wardrobe.

THE TRIPLE TEE PACK

In addition to this being a great way to save costs, if you’re a first year and are looking for some staple items to contribute to your McMaster clothing collections, check out this pack.

For $29.95 (plus tax) you get three McMaster University t-shirts in white, grey and maroon. If you don’t need all three, split with a couple friends. Be sure to layer these shirts with a long sleeve shirt of another colour to keep warm, otherwise you’ll be making trips to DBAC every ten minutes to warm up.

CIRCLE CREST

The Circle Crest sweater, available as either a hoody or a crew neck, will keep you warm and cozy during the long game.

Wearing one of these will not make your outfit stand out (as almost every student has this sweater in at least one of the four colours available) but it is one of those timeless McMaster pieces that you will wear over and over again. Both styles are available at the Campus Store for $29.95.

CLASSIC MARAUDER BASEBALL CAP

In the off chance that the sun decides to show up to help cheer on the Marauders, be prepared with the Marauder baseball cap. With an embroidered crest on the front and the “Fear the Bird” slogan on the back, you’ll be able to enjoy the game without worrying about a glare or an awkward face burn in the middle of October. The hat is $21.95 plus tax, but worth it to prevent your nose from experiencing an intense sunburn the week before Thanksgiving.

THE BOTH BAD & UGLY But you know, wear them if you’d like. They aren’t all that bad...

MAC DADDY FEDORA

The name pretty much says it all. For $8.50 plus tax, this polyester suede hat may not completely protect you from potential sunburn, but it will ensure you look like “that guy” while you watch McMaster defeat the Warriors.

FURRY LEG WARMERS

No words can descibe these. But they do cost $29.85.

HANDLEBAR MOUSTACHE

Ever wanted to know what you would look like with a moustache, especially with Movember coming up so soon? This is your chance!

Campus Store has a maroon handle bar moustache for those who wish to test out the facial hair waters while supporting their favourite football team. All for the low price of $2.05.

Keeping campus stylish An inside look at Mac’s own Sartorialist: Style at Mac Katie Dhaliwal The Silhouette For all the fashion-forward students out there, there’s a new club in town. “Style at Mac”, is a website and student-run group that offers fashion lovers recognition on campus.

Run by three McMaster students, Nancy Pham, Sherry Du, and Victor Cheng, SAM uses photography and fashion to share homegrown Hamilton styles with the student community.

Du, a fourth-year Biology student, loves blogging, photography and making her own jewellery. Cheng, a third-year Multimedia and Communication Studies student, is an esteemed “iPhoneographer” and loves to design his own clothes in his spare time. The two sat down for an interview with LifeStyle to discuss their new initiatives and to give us the inside scoop on fall fashion trends.

First, it’s important to note that SAM isn’t just a fashion blog—according to Cheng and Du, it’s a venture that attempts to create an open forum for students interested in fashion to meet, discuss their passions and express themselves. Previously missing from campus, they felt that this club would try to fill that niche for fashion enthusiasts. This initial idea was what led to the creation of their new website and plans for an upcoming fashion show in March.

Their website displays some of these trends and focuses on students with outfits that SAM’s photographers have deemed eye-catching or original. They’re looking for “great patterns, a well put together outfit or even just a great choice of colour,” says Du. However, this isn’t to say that these outfits will be rated or dissected. Victor made it very clear that the aim of the website is to simply document and share new trends while creating a sense of pride in those that are photographed. Du added, “It’s important that we try to create an inclusive environment that showcases uniqueness on campus and the diversity of all students”.

Their plans for their first fashion show will also feature McMaster talent by showcasing the work of student designers as well as local, independent clothing boutiques to support our surrounding community.

Only one month into the semester and SAM has already picked out some fall trends emerging on campus. Cheng mentions vintage clothing and styles from the 80s and 90s have made a big come back, with combat boots being a major front-runner in must-haves for the season. And for those of us that struggle to find something to wear on days with early morning lectures, SAM has us covered, as it’s a question they often ask the stylish men and women they photograph. A good suggestion

would be to take a few extra minutes to plan your outfit the day before, so that in the morning it’s quick and hassle free. Cheng also emphasized not to wear the same coloured shirt and pants unless it’s all black. As for favourite accessories, Cheng can’t leave home without a watch to complete his outfit, and Du loves a silk or cotton scarf with a bold colour or pattern because “they’re an easy way to spruce up any outfit”.

You can check out SAM at www.styleatmac.tumblr.com.

Their March fashion show is a few months away, but in the meantime keep an eye out for their cameras and keep our campus stylish.

AMANDA WATKINS / LIFESTYLE EDITOR

Du, Cheng and Pham are all smiles as they consult their street style photos for the day.

theSil.ca

Thursday, Oct. 3, 2013

ANDY

C2

*There are eight emus in this issue. See if you can spot them all. All emu drawings done by Karen Wang.

E-mail: andy@thesil.ca

ndex

Assistant Editor: Cooper Long

Phone: (905)•525•9140 ext 27117

Contributors: Tomi Milos, Shane Madill, Kacper Niburski, Michael Gallagher, Sarah O'Connor, David Simpson

coming up in the hammer westdale theatre

•oct 1 the cheap sneakers •oct 4ww the zolas •oct 5 dinosaur bones

•oct 3 •oct 3

•oct 8 •oct 12 •oct 10

cat piano the boys danielle beaudin

artword artbar •oct 26

Lori Yates' songwriters' workshop

Cover: Bahar Orang

C3

the casbah

this ain’t hollywood

Senior Editor: Bahar Orang

Meeting Time: Tuesdays @ 5:30 p.m.

Live from New York

gravity we're the millers

C4 C5

silvercity ancaster •oct 6 •oct 7

don jon the art of the steal

GTA V C6

ALBUM REVIEWS the pearl company

C7

•oct 4 art bus (art tour) •oct 26 beatles & beyond (exhibit)

Danielle Beaudin C8

The Mousetrap life advice from andy Everybody has a different idea of love. One girl I know said, “I knew he loved me when he didn’t come in my mouth.”

-andy warhol

THE COVER STORY It was one particularly sunny September afternoon, and I decided to take a stroll in Cootes Paradise. Through the underbrush, I spotted a family of deer. Upon closer inspection, I realized that one of the deer had more feathers than normal. I remembered an urban legend that deer have been known to raise lost baby emus as their own. Now I have the pics to prove it.

theSil.ca

ANDY

Thursday, Oct. 3, 2013

C3

EDITORIAL

whatever happened to Saturday Night?

Cooper Long Assistant ANDY Editor It is probably unreasonable to expect major change from a TV show once it has been on the air for several decades. After all, the producers are not going to add a laugh track to National Geographic, or a rapping grandmother to Meet the Press.

Nevertheless, it seemed possible that the recent season premiere of Saturday Night Live could mark a meaningful shakeup in the show’s 39 year history. Three of SNL’s most popular and long-running players (Bill Hader, Jason Sudeikis, and Fred Armisen) departed at the end of last season, and Seth Meyers relinquished the head writing position that he has held since 2006.

Unfortunately, any hopes for a reinvention were dashed even before the first obligatory game show parody. SNL remains as stubbornly mediocre as ever.

First of all, the cast still doesn’t look representative of the people you would expect to see walking down the street outside SNL’s New York studio. To replenish his ensemble, series-creator and executive producer Lorne Michaels hired five virtually indistinguishable white guys and one woman. Of course, new cast members should be hired based on their abilities, not their race. It just seems hard to believe that

Michaels’ nationwide talent search yielded five performers who can only be told apart by their haircuts.

The musical performances on the premiere were also typically thin sounding and poorly mixed. Arcade Fire debuted a hypnotic new track from their upcoming album, Reflektor. Yet, it sometimes seemed as if all the instruments were being played from inside the same glass booth where band member Régine Chassagne was briefly imprisoned.

Even the sequencing of sketches felt particularly routine. Jay Pharoah played

President Obama in the customary rippedfrom-the-headlines cold open, before disappearing for the remainder of the episode (another example of the show’s diversity problem). Then, as usual, all the strangest sketches got dumped after 12:30 a.m., by which time the writers must assume most of the audience is asleep.

Despite all these flaws and missed opportunities, however, I still plan on watching SNL regularly this season, as I have for many years. Most weeks I find SNL disappointing. But I will always love the idea of SNL.

Saturday white live?

To me, there is something irresistibly compelling and romantic about the very notion of a live sketch series. I love the idea that every week there is a madcap team of writers crammed in a room together, feverishly pitching taxidermy jokes and arguing about whether they can say “toe blasting” on television. Indeed, this concept is so appealing that it served as the basic premise of 30 Rock for seven seasons. Saturday after Saturday, my fantasy about the fun and excitement involved in making SNL overwhelms my frustrations with the actual content of each episode.

Michaels himself even hinted at this appeal in a recent New York Times interview. “I think there’s something about what it’s trying to be,” he said. Even though, he admitted, “It will never get there.”

I am not merely trying to justify a guilty pleasure. Indeed, I think that this same distinction between concept and execution can be applied to all entertainment.

It is possible to savour the idea and creative process behind a piece of pop culture, even if the final form falls short of that potential.

It may take SNL another 39 seasons before the sketches match the brilliance and promise of the show’s concept. Even so, I will keep staying up late on Saturday night until they do. @coop_long

the

big

tickle best place for coffee and a good book?

BAHAR ORANG/ ANDY EDITOR YOSEIF HADDAD / PHOTO EDITOR

Sinead B. “MDCL atrium.”

Alicia G. “Under a tree.”

Ryan F. “Cootes Paradise.”

Nicholas L. “The Drain in JHE.”

Alex D. “The Cannon, downtown.”

theSil.ca

Kacper Niburski The Silhouette It is a universal truth that Monday mornings are the worst and mine was certainly veering on astronomically bad: I committed a double homicide.

I didn’t mean to, really. I was just driving along and one thing led to another and before I knew it, I found myself knee-deep in the offal of another man. His liver wobbled underneath my tire as I put my phone away.

Sure it could be argued that his Monday was undeniably worse – he was nothing more than a meat pillow now after all - but I had to deal with the messy aftermath and car washes certainly weren’t cheap these days. I’m sure that my fender was bent too and I liked my fender. It shined in the sun.

While I was considering these complications, I heard the scurrying of feet behind me. A different man who had witnessed me mow down the ground-beef lookalike underneath my car was screaming and running.

As if my mechanical problems weren’t enough – I couldn’t have any loose ends. So off my car went, spinning bright red tires and fading maroon tracks as I roared towards the high pitch shrill in front of me. I might have even put on my blinker as I performed the U-turn. I can’t be sure – sometimes these things escape me on Mondays.

I wouldn’t call this a regular Monday though. Instead I would call it a tradition that has lasted some seven days since the release of Grand Theft Auto V, a seminal electronic masterpiece that has not gone without its share of controversy and senseless diatribes. Despite its high anticipation, exalting reviews, five years of development, an extensive original soundtrack and spellbinding portraits of real individuals captured in the minutia of a video game, the common critique is that the game is a juvenile, shortsighted, and degenerate caricature of life.

As these critics myopically see it, GTA V dissolves life into a cycle of carnage, carnage, and more carnage in that order. It is violence unbridled and unadulterated, which says nothing of the potential for senseless malice and misogynistic tendencies. Choppy,

Thursday, Oct. 3, 2013

unrealistic and driven by sociopathic tendencies for brutality, some say the game is a gross, uninformed cliché of reality.

This criticism, I feel, is absolutely true and that’s the point. What so few seem to understand is that Rockstar, the game developer, is not trying to hide this overt excess in human indecency; in fact, it’s quite the opposite.

Debauchery is relished, vice defines the norm and the world is nothing short of ugly. The hellscape is entirely intentional and familiar; it is a reflection of ourselves rather than an impression – and for this reason, GTA is the most authentic, most provocative and most compelling piece of art I have ever experienced.

Though it is difficult to unanimously define, art is meant to subvert and change. It is a manifestation of cause and effect in order to reverse that process inherently. By viewing a painting or a statue or reading a book, the viewer is meant to vicariously experience something emotional, psychological or mental, and in doing so, they are meant feel, act and do. For art is not a depiction of what is necessarily, but what has been and what should be instead.

The world of GTA V - Los Santos - is exactly that blend of unique, creative temperament distilled down to encapsulate humanity’s dirty, crude, and abhorrent nature. As a complete globe littered with desires and insecurities stretched to their extreme, the player sees their own world – this world – without its filter. Behind the sunlight, roaring mountains and endless beaches, everyone is driven by self-interest. Whether it is corrupt FBI agents, plastic wives, duplicitous TV hosts, people are either being exploited or exploiting someone themselves. In the game, all are victims but none are innocent, us included.

But it is also more than just a simple mockery of perverse lifestyles, contemporary pop culture, invading social networks, ridiculous political systems and our own vices magnified.

Because unlike other art forms that simply mirror life, GTA puts life back into art by putting the player in control of the world and its ramifications.

In each mission or event, we see our actions run their course and we find ourselves in an inescapable torrent of contempt and pain. Wherever we go, suffering follows and we hate it. We don’t enjoy it. No character is happy.

No character is left unscathed by their proclivity for violence. Lives are ruined. People are killed. And though the game goes on, we are not enamored by the violence. We are rebuked, chastised and horrified by it. Not because of its grotesque nature or because of how ridiculous it seems, but because we see ourselves in that world of Los Santos and we see how recognizable it is to our own, and that scares us.

There is one scene where a raging psychopath must perform torture on another character in the game. But there is no enjoyment. There is no fun.

The controller vibrates. The screams are blood curling. And after it all, we are left with the imprint of our action, the despicable, disgusting, and fruitless action for very little information is gleaned if any at all.

And we hate ourselves for it. Or at least I did.

That is art. It is the agitation of a cruel universe only to provide a message afterwards. In GTA, the message isn’t violence though some people can only see that limited end. Instead it is a cry that with moral choices and consequences, we are responsible for our actions and how society comes together as a whole. If we breed hate, hate results. If we are selfish, others will be too.

Though GTA is a world inhabited by these sins, it is not an embodiment of them. Among the bloodshed and bodies, it whispers that as humans we often get caught in our excesses and mistakes, and this is not right. Earth need not be Los Santos. By showing us what is disgustingly possible in an extreme sense, GTA is a hope that we don’t have to succumb to our selfishness, vanity, and depravity. We are better if we want to be.

Like the characters, whether we are good or evil is our choice. It always was. And in order to realize that, sometimes we just need to have a bad Monday morning.

ANDY

C4 & C5

SOUNDTRACK FOR A CAR CRASH Michael Gallagher The Silhouette

“That is art. It is the agitation of a cruel universe only to provide a message afterwards.”

Rockstar Games’ Grand Theft Auto V likes to do things big. How big? Well, I could tell you that the game’s playable map is twice the size of real world Manhattan. Or maybe mention that the game became the world’s most successful entertainment release by achieving more than $1 billion in sales within three days of its release. But I’d especially like to point to the sheer size of the soundtrack, because yes, it’s also pretty huge.

The game features 15 radio stations, with 240 licensed songs, celebrity DJs, and new material from artists like Tyler the Creator, A$AP Rocky, and Neon Indian – just to name a few.

For added realism, the stations feature professional DJ’s with realistic sounding conversation between songs, and multiple commercial breaks satirizing everything from plastic surgery to corporate corruption.

Each of these radio stations caters to a specific musical genre which means that there is endless variety available for the player. Players simply don’t have to worry about being limited to a particular genre, and are instead able to listen to reggae, classic rock, indie rock, 80s funk, and old school hip-hop just some of the many choices GTA V has to offer.

Don’t like rap music? You can drive around the city blasting Queen and Elton John just as easily as you can listen to Dr. Dre and Kendrick Lamar (although something about “Radio Gaga” and car chases just don’t mix).

All this is partly thanks to GTA V’s music

director Ivan Pablovich, who recognized the need for musical variety in a game that is supposed to create an open world full of seemingly endless possibilities and customization.

By allowing players to not only personalize their cars and clothes, but the musical lens through which they experience the game, GTA V allows for the kind of depth fans of the series have been looking for. In fact, I have actually discovered new artists and songs that I really enjoy, something I wasn’t expecting from a video game.

There were times while playing that I spent just driving around the fictional city of Los Santos (think real world Los Angeles), taking in the atmosphere and just enjoying some of the beats and lyrics the game dishes out.

But what if you aren’t a gamer? Or maybe you just aren’t a fan of the GTA series, why would all this matter to you? Well the game’s soundtrack not only makes for a killer ingame experience, it also doubles as a truly fantastic mixtape.

My only complaint is that despite featuring Kenny Loggins as the DJ for the classic rock radio station, “Danger Zone” is nowhere to be found. It is something probably only Archer fans and I will find disappointing, but I guess in a soundtrack this good, there’s room for at least a few mistakes.

Ultimately, if you’re the kind of person who likes musical variety, particularly across multiple genres, checking out the GTA V soundtrack is definitely worth a listen, even if the game is not something you are interested in.

theSil.ca

Thursday, Oct. 3, 2013

andy’s album reviews Tomi Milos The Silhouette

Split Tape W/Slouch Artist: All Dogs In these tough economic times, the majority of students struggle just to scrounge up money for textbooks. When asked to consider paying for music, most balk at the proposition, citing their already empty wallets.

But even those who feign poverty can be seen clutching a coffee from Tim Hortons a few times a week. By my estimation — I’m no mathematician — a small double-double costs something like $1.40. In comparison, All Dogs’ debut cassette will only run you $1 on Bandcamp (should you wish to enjoy it in digital rather than analog form), offering you the perfect soundtrack for this autumn.

All Dogs is composed of three mainstays on the burgeoning independent music scene in Columbus, Ohio: Maryn Jones (vocals/guitar), Amanda Bartley (bass) and Jesse Withers

Shane Madill The Silhouette

The 20/20 Experience Part 2 Artist: Justin Timberlake This is very likely one of the better pop albums that will come out this year; it is tongue-incheek, experimental, and has a good balance of the sexyness and style of Justified and FutureSex/LoveSounds. However, it cannot hold a torch to the first part of The 20/20 Experience.

(drums). They’ve lingered in selfimposed obscurity for a while with a few videos from shows popping up on YouTube on the odd occasion. But their self-released split-tape with Slouch has lit a fire under music fans, and for good reason.

This is very much the best take “This’ll be on popthe best punk I’ve dollar you heard in ever spend.” years.

The album opener, ‘Farm’, is the clear standout. It opens with Jones singing “Mid-autumn, the sun rise, opens up, your eyes” in a lilted tone so sweet that it’ll break your heart. Someone on Tumblr reblogged my audio post of the song and added “This is so 90’s lol”. It’s a fair evaluation if by “90’s” they meant, “fucking awesome to listen to while walking through campus at noon and being nostalgic”.

“Love Song” will have you ruefully reflecting on your embarassingly earnest high school

This outing is less consistent, the highlights not quite as high, and Justin’s singing ability has noticeably regressed.

He is most comfortable and proficient when showing his emotional side, and when the production follows his primary influence of R&B. His more experimental deviations are very weak in comparison. Something is bound to stick in an album totaling just over 74 minutes, but it might take some work to find.

This is not a bad album by any means; we have just been spoiled

by Timberlake’s previous works.

love life, or lack of one. Melancholy lyrics like “I want you, and you want me, but I will fuck it up, just wait and see” combine with an exuberant mix of garage rock riffs to have you drowning in a sea of teen angst.

‘Annoying’ is far from it. It’ll have you playing air guitar while getting dressed and joining in on the simple but cathartic chorus of “let it out, let it out, let it out”.

‘Dumb’ is the perfect opportunity to indulge in your anxious self-loathing (and maybe feel a bit better by the end).

As if the tape couldn’t get any better, it closes out with a ridiculously good cover of The Muffs’ ‘Every Single Thing’. THE MUFFS! So 90’s! Their saccharine take on the pop-punk classic will have you feeling all of the feels (shoutsout Yung Lean, repping #sadboys at all times). All Dogs have caught the well-tuned ear of Salinas Records, who will be releasing their 7-inch this November. Should you be so inclined, you can listen to one song from it on their Bandcamp now.

If I hadn’t made it clear, this’ll be the best dollar you ever spend.

Go to www.thesil.ca/andy for a rundown of singles this week from Tomi Milos.

ANDY

C6

theSil.ca

no more waiting for Danielle Beaudin

Thursday, Oct. 3, 2013

The Hamilton rock songstress prepares to release her debut album, Wait for Your Love David Simpson Silhouette Alumnus Danielle Beaudin knew in grade nine, growing up on the Mountain, that she wanted to be a rock-and-roll singer. When she should have been studying for exams, instead she was playing her guitar, fiddling with a basic multi-track recorder, and writing songs.

When she hit Grade 12, she arranged a co-op placement for herself at Westmoreland Studios, run by Carl Jennings of the band Freedom Train. She has been working there ever since and, during what little downtime there has been, she recorded and had Carl produce her first album, Wait for Your Love.

The CD is in her hands now, and will have its official launch on Thursday., Oct. 10, at This Ain’t Hollywood – a classic bar on James Street North.

The nine songs on the CD were, to varying degrees, six years in the making.

It takes time and money to record, mix, and master a song. The final product is the result of a lot of hard work and sacrifice – dining on Kraft Dinner instead of caviar.

Beaudin wrote all the songs, although she credits Jennings on all of them for the contributions he made in helping to challenge her and to shape their arrangements and quality. A few tunes were written in the studio, and very much influenced by Carl’s

creative ideas.

“Carl and I have a good relationship in the studio,” said Beaudin. “We play a tennis match of sorts, bouncing ideas back and forth. I can’t praise Carl enough for everything he did for these tunes, and can definitely say some of these tunes are a 50/50 writing credit.”

Helping out at a recording studio has also taught her a lot – and she has been involved in engineering and contributing backing vocals to many projects along the way.

A lot of songs on the CD have a classic sound and feel – driven by electric guitar, by catchy choruses, and by layered harmonies. Her influences include The Beatles, Fleetwood Mac, Joni Mitchell, Neil Young, and many other classic rock acts – music from, frankly, before her time.

She credits her father for some of her taste in music. He was a DJ and, while he

“My dad is a young free spirit and a dreamer. I guess that’s where I get it from.”

ANDY

C7

C/O DANIELLE BEAUDIN

encouraged his children to listen to contemporary music, he loved the old stuff and has shared his collection of LPs with his daughter.

Beaudin says that her dad loves music and gets out to see bands two or three times a week – more than she does. Sometimes she will get a text from friends saying that they are hanging out at a live show with her dad. “My dad is a young, free spirit and a dreamer,” she said. “I guess that’s where I get it from. He always encouraged both me, and my actor brother to do what we love and to find passion and follow where it leads.

“My mom is also amazing and supportive of my goals,” she added. “She’s my rock and keeps me sane when I feel like my world gets too crazy... which it often does.”

Beaudin has videos for three of the songs posted on her website. The earliest video, for the song “Little Bird,” edits together grainy, old home movies of her father and his siblings. The video for “Sun Will Shine,” with its bright chorus, features some shots of her on figure-skates – something she still teaches part-time. Miz Monday put this video together for Beaudin.

Her latest video – for the title song of the new CD – features artful camera angles with Beaudin in various Hamilton settings.

March Mercanti helped bring it to life.

Playing the music live is the next step.

Danielle has been playing live for years,

building a fan base playing clubs in Hamilton, Brantford, Stoney Creek, Burlington and beyond. She also has a friend with a connection to the BBC over in England – perhaps that will get her some airplay across the pond.

In today’s internet-driven world a singer can make a break-through almost anywhere with talent and a little luck – local acts like Caribou and Jessy Lanza have helped to prove that.

Working at Westmoreland, with its busy recording schedule, Beaudin has made the acquaintance of many talented musicians along the way. Musicians who helped on her CD have experience playing with The Trews, City and Colour, David Wilcox and other established Canadian bands. Her principal performing partner is Tim Allard who can handle drums, keyboards and guitar with skill.

For the CD release show At This Aint Hollywood on Thursday Oct.10, Tim Allard along with the band Daylight for Deadeyes will be backing Beaudin. Doors open at 9 p.m. and her set starts at 10 p.m. $10 cover.

theSil.ca

ANDY

Thursday, Oct. 3, 2013

caught up in The Mousetrap

C8

Theatre Aquarius stages a snappy production of Agatha Christie’s classic play Sarah O’Connor The Silhouette When I heard in April that Theatre Aquarius was going to be putting on Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap, I could hardly hide my excitement. It was murder having to wait six months for the play to be performed. But it was well worth the buildup.

For those unfamiliar with Christie and her works, it should be known that she is the best-selling novelist of all time.

She also created the memorable detectives Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple, who still have their own television shows and movies today. Her most famous play, The Mousetrap, premiered in 1952 and has played in England for 61 years, making it the world’s longest running play.

The Mousetrap is a cozy mystery set after World War II in a newly renovated guesthouse, Monkswell Manor. The guesthouse is owned and run by young married couple Giles

and Mollie Ralston (Aidan deSalaiz and Trish Lindström). On Monkswell Manor’s first night open for the public, the manor is booked out to five guests: Christopher Wren (Alex McCooeye), an eccentric young architect who fancies nursery rhymes, Mrs. Boyle (Jo Skilton), a highly unlikable woman of high class, Major Metcalf (Terry Belleville), a retired army man who we know little about, Miss Casewell (Shannon Currie), an odd woman who came to England to finish certain unnamed business, and Mr. Paravicini (Tony DeSantis), a mysterious guest who ends up at Monkswell Manor after his car is overturned in a snowdrift.

After a sudden call from the police, Detective Sergeant Trotter (Simon Lee Phillips) arrives on the case, telling the already tense guests that they may all be in danger. After a woman, Mrs. Lyons, was murdered on Culver Street the previous day, Trotter believes that the murderer may be headed to Monkswell Manor. As the snow keeps the guests from leaving

the manor, Sergeant Trotter tries to find out which of the guests are in danger, and which one is a murderer. Each guest turns upon the others, wondering how much is really known about the other person, who can be trusted. Can anybody?

This colourful cast of characters gives The Mousetrap the perfect balance of humour and suspense. The casting choices were perfect too. Each of the actors really understands whom they are playing, and it was nice to see some new faces at Theatre Aquarius. While I felt Trish Lindström was a bit over-the-top at times, she excelled in shrouding Mollie with kindness and mystery. But it was Alex McCooeye who really stole the show. His portrayal of Christopher Wren was incredible, creating the perfect balance of eccentricity and suspicion, causing the audience to wonder if this lovable goof ball could really be a murderer.

The set was gorgeous and really looked like it was taken straight out of the late 1940s. I especially loved the snow falling from the large windows of the Great

Hall, which made Monkswell Manor feel even cozier.

But what really makes The Mousetrap a masterpiece is the ending. Once you’ve seen The Mousetrap, you become part of The Mousetrap club, an old tradition where you must never reveal the ending to anyone who hasn’t seen the play.

So who could it be? Could the murderer be our hosts Mr. and Mrs. Ralston, the unlikable Mrs. Boyle, the kind Major Metcalf, the eccentric Christopher Wren, the odd Miss Casewell, or the strange Mr. Paravicini? Sergeant Trotter is on the case.

Join him, as well as our suspects, at Theatre Aquarius, and join The Mousetrap club yourself.

THE MOUSETRAP, THEATRE AQUARIUS, COMPANY. PHOTO BY DANIEL BANKO.