SIL SPORTS PREVIEWS SATURDAY’S OUA SEMI-FINAL MATCHUP WITH QUEEN’S SEE S4,S5
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McMASTER UNIVERSITY'S STUDENT NEWSPAPER / THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2011
The Silhouette
YOUR VOICE ON CAMPUS
Police looking for suspects in TwelvEighty stabbing Kacper Niburski
Assistant News Editor
Halloween had more than its share of frights, bumps, and bruises this year. On Oct. 29, at a Halloween event hosted by TwelvEighty, three men, two of which sustained knife wounds to their chests while the other suffered facial injuries, were rushed to hospital. A fourth may have also been stabbed, but has yet to seek medical assistance. At approximately 2:30 a.m., police were called to investigate a disturbance outside the campus bar by McMaster campus security who were first to respond to the event. Due to the influx of students convening at the bar, the campus security required assistance by Hamilton Police. Sergeant Terri-Lynn Collings, Media Relations for Hamilton Police Service, noted that most of the investigation is still ongoing, and a variety of details are still not known. She went so far to call the event a “disturbance” as opposed to a “stabbing.” “We do not currently know how the three individuals sustained their injuries simply because the three victims, all of which went to hospitals, are somewhat uncooperative with the investigation,” said Collings. When asked whether there has been any movement in their cooperation with the police investigation, Sergeant Collings said, “No. I have not received any further information.” She did add, though, that they “were not from Hamilton. They were from out of town.” Andrea Farquhar, director of Public and Government Relations for McMaster University mirrored this information. “They were not McMaster students,” she said. Farquhar added that the University will also conduct its own investigation, a procedure common to all security measures. As an establishment, TwelvEighty is not known for being a hub of conflict. Throughout the years, few altercations have been noted other than a few isolated cases of poorly coordinated dance moves and equally misplaced fist pumps. As such, the stabbing event stands as an anomaly to the McMaster campus. Farquhar stressed this in an interview. “There are times where nonMcMaster students come on campus and cause problems.” She said. Farquhar added, “I wouldn’t call it an issue.” While the details of the altercation are still unclear, Sergeant Collings stressed that the investigation will be ongoing. “As a police service, we recognize that there maybe people who have witnessed the event who, at the time, did not feel comfortable reporting it to the police.” Collings continued, “If there is anyone who has any information and has not spoken to the police yet, then they should definitely give us a call.” Needless to say, the police can be reached at all times and any advice would certainly be appreciated.
Est. 1930
VOLUME 82, NO. 12
THIS WEEK...
How an influential woman set the stage for change, and why you should care
ANDY
ANDY PAYS TRIBUTE TO TOM WAITS AND HIS JAW-DROPPING LYRICISM . SEE D6
OPINIONS RICARDO PADILLA / ASSISTANT PHOTO EDITOR
Beginning of an end Farzeen Foda
Senior News Editor
From the Department of Engineering at the prestigious Johns Hopkins University, Dr. Illene BuschVishniac came to McMaster University in 2007 to serve as Provost. Now in her fifth year on the job, she has declined to pursue a subsequent term in the position. As McMaster president Patrick Deane announced in an Oct. 28 email to McMaster faculty and staff, her term as Provost will end on June 30, 2012. The Provost will not be leaving the University, but will instead focus on her role as professor and researcher. “One of the other hats I wear is a tenured full professor in the department of Mechanical Engineering,” said a humble BuschVishniac. During her time in the job, Busch-Vishniac worked in col-
laboration with students and faculty to improve the quality of the educational experience offered at McMaster. Such initiatives include the revitalization of the Centre for Leadership and Learning (CLL), as well as work with UTS (University Technology Services) to ease course registration for students. “Already, the fine work of the new UTS leadership team has improved the registration experience for students, though we still have a long way to go,” said Busch-Vishniac. Efforts of behalf of UTS successfully made the process slightly smoother this year compared to previous years, but a more effective and permanent arrangement has yet to be put in place. After course registration, the issue of study space on campus resurfaced. Student concerns about available study space on campus
were relayed to University administration, and as Provost, Busch-Vishniac helped to mobilize funding and resources to increase study space through a collaborative effort with the University’s libraries. Efforts to increase study space on campus will be ongoing and constantly evolving to meet the needs of the changing classroom. In his recent letter to the University, Deane outlined three key themes that should direct the course of the University in coming years. Busch-Vishniac has been a part of the University’s visioning, and would like to leave the letter’s goals to her successor for guidance. “These themes are improving the undergraduate learning experience in an era of constrained finances, maintaining our research excellence, and engaging the com-
Gandhi statue met with contention at Carleton The Silhouette
With a season of civil unrest upon us, many have questioned the authenticity of protesters’ concerns. In this day and age, how can we distinguish the agitators from the real deal? It turns out that the answer, at least in the present case, may be less baffling than one would expect. The celebratory spirit of this year’s 19th annual Gandhi Peace Festival held on Oct. 1 was highlighted with the unveiling of a Gandhi statue presented to McMaster University on behalf of the Indian government. A vastly different scene was evoked, however, at Carleton University, which revealed a similar statue of the Indian icon on Oct. 2, despite strong opposition from a
demonstration of protesters representing the Organization for Minorities of India. The group, whose Facebook page ‘Stop the Carleton University Gandhi Statue’ garnered upwards of 150 fans, resists commemoration of Gandhi across North America. Their convictions hinge primarily upon the belief that Gandhi’s popular embodiment of peace and non-violence are a pretense of his true legacy, outlined on their website (stopgandhistatue.com) as follows: “Gandhi is a hero only to a select group of upper-caste Hindu Indians. To others, he remains a man who unashamedly and unapologetically constructed a legacy of racism against blacks, support for racial segregation in South Africa, cheerleading and participation in
SEE A7
INSIDEOUT
• PLEASE SEE PROVOST, A5
Donation sparks varied response Christina Pugliese
WE EXPLORE THE DIRTY WORLD OF SUDDEN YOUTUBE STARDOM.
British colonial wars of conquest, insensitive and anti-Semitic remarks about the Jewish Holocaust, disturbing amiability towards Adolf Hitler and Benito Mussolini, shocking disregard for the psychological well-being of his grandnieces and consistent belittlement of Indian minorities such as Dalits and Sikhs.” While perhaps unsettling, these accusations come as no surprise to Dr. Rama Singh, professor of Biology at McMaster and Chair of the Gandhi Peace Festival Committee. “A few years ago, G.B. Singh, [founder of the Organization for Minorities of India], wrote to me asking why I was wasting my time,” he said. “Rather than engaging, I simply responded by saying, ‘I am going to assume that Gandhi has all those faults, and in spite of them, the fact • PLEASE SEE CARLETON, A3
FOLLOW JONATHON FAIRCLOUGH THROUGH HIS ADVENTURES IN PARIS SEE C1
SPORTS
BOTH MARAUDER SOCCER TEAMS CLINCH SEMIFINAL BERTHS AFTER HOME VICTORIES AT RON JOYCE SEE S2
...IN THE SIL
the
PRESIDENT’S PAGE Duncan Thompson VP (Finance)
Katie Ferguson VP (Administration)
Matthew Dillon-Leitch President
Alicia Ali VP (Education)
HAMILTON LACKS A COHESIVE GRAD RETENTION STRATEGY – EXPERIMENTAL EDUCATION COULD BE THE ANSWER Matt attends the Youth Employment Strategy Conference and brings home a fresh perspective on reaching out to the Hamilton Community
Matthew Dillon-Leitch President president@msu.mcmaster.ca ext. 23885
Last week, I attended the Youth Employment Strategy conference, and was delighted to participate in the Community Engagement Session focused on improving Hamilton’s youth retention strategy. At the conference a number of issues were discussed, but there seemed to be some confusion as to how Hamilton can entice youth to stay in the city post-graduation. Some people mentioned jobs, others said the city should do a better job at promoting the jobs that are already available and others argued for increased transportation. Throughout these discussions I couldn’t help but think that for the
most part students rarely engage with our city. If you think about it, it is really easy to stay on campus or within the Westdale bubble and never really venture to the downtown core. What I have found, however, is that once you make that step to go explore downtown, or Dundas, or Cootes Paradise/The Royal Botanical Gardens, or Locke Street, etc., Hamilton has a lot to offer. There are sections of this city that are simply amazing and yet unless we decide to take that first step, we may never discover them. After reading McMaster president Patrick Deane’s letter to the community, “Forward with Integrity”, I began to assess his discussion on handson learning (experiential education) and community engagement. As students, we learn in a variety of different ways but when we have the opportunity to learn through experience and relate it back to what we are studying in the classroom, it truly enhances our educational experience. By looking to the city for
experiential educational opportunities, I education programs within Hamilton, feel we can help move students outside Mac will begin to redefine the role of a of the McMaster bubble and ensure that university within a society. This type of they engage with the city of Hamilton. change in pedagogy will help to create This change will fundamentally alter the a more engaged student, and a more educational experience of Mac students engaged community. for the better. I hope to see a At the continuation of this discussion, as it will hopefully influence conference, the future of this school, another idea and the role of McMaster in proposed was to We can help the Hamilton community. create different move students As a student’s union, this is councils and outside of the precisely the type of discussion forums for McMaster bubble we should facilitate, in order students to and ensure that to develop student opinion. provide their they engage with the city of Our first opportunity to do feedback on Hamilton the direction of this as a student body will be on Movember 24th, in Hamilton. This is a great idea and would make for an Gilmour Hall room 111 (Council amazing opportunity. It would certainly Chambers) from 1pm to 3pm. There be helpful in gathering student opinion both Patrick Deane and myself will in the short term, but if we really want host an open forum on education and to see students care about the future of the community. I hope to see you there, Hamilton, then they must engage with as it is your thoughts and opinions that the city. By developing experiential will help shape the future of McMaster.
“
AN OPEN CALL FOR STUDENT IDEAS TO ENHANCE YOUR STUDENT CENTER MMXI
Alicia Ali VP (Education) vped@msu.mcmaster.ca ext. 24017
tinyurl.com/msumovember
JOIN McMASTER MOVEMBER
Since 1989, the undergraduate students that have passed through the various doors of this campus have been paying a fee contributing to the creation of the McMaster University Student Centre (MUSC). Since opening, that same fee has been used towards the sustained operation of the Student Centre and the growth of a pool of reserve capital. The building to which McMaster students have so generously contributed is set to celebrate its 10th anniversary. Now that several generations of undergrads have had the opportunity to explore and use the MUSC to its full capacity, MUSC Administration and the MSU are looking for improvement ideas from students. Who better to suggest potential changes and/or renovations than the very students who use the building on a daily basis?
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.msu.mcmaster.ca
Here’s your chance. Is there a change or renovation you’d like to see in the MUSC? Do you have a fantastic idea that will improve student life or contribute to the student experience involving MUSC? Let us know! Please contact any member of the MSU Board of Directors, you can find all of our contact info on this very page. Or visit us at www.msumcmaster.ca; on the banner menu find ‘MSU’ then select the sub-heading of ‘Government’. As well, you can start a thread on our new website module, MyIdeas. This forum allows students to create, view and/or vote on idea threads about any topic they wish. Don’t have a proposal or a plan for MUSC, but you still have a great idea nonetheless? Check out MyIdeas on the MSU website – where you can make all kinds of suggestions and watch your MSU Board of Directors take those ideas and make them realities. Feel free to use MyIdeas at your leisure or contact any board member with any idea you may have over the course of the year – the future of MUSC is in your hands! Check out MyIdeas at: msumcmaster.ca/myIdeas (note the capital ‘I’ in the URL)
THE SILHOUETTE • A3
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2011
Controversial Issues
Carleton protesters stand against statue
ROB HUANG / THE SILHOUETTE
McMaster welcomed the generously donated Gandhi statue that is now on display in Mills Memorial Library. • CONT’D FROM A1 that he still could become a Mahatma to the rest of the world means that there is hope for you and me.’” Singh is critical of the organization’s self-imposed title of ‘Minority,’ noting that the group’s agenda fails to address any concern outside the realm of Gandhi tribute,
such as poverty, sexism or racism, that often affect these populations disproportionately. Singh described the factual validity of the group’s views as “misinterpretations of the events of Gandhi’s life,” providing the example of Gandhi helping to save the wounded during the Boer War as ‘evidence’ of his participation in combat. “I would say that these people are a disgrace to the Gandhian movement. You don’t have to believe in Gandhi, but Gandhi’s ideas are not only Gandhi’s ideas; they are Martin Luther King’s ideas, Dalai Lama’s ideas, Nelson Mandela’s ideas. These people fought for something. That’s what Gandhi symbolizes. So to fight over Gandhi’s faults is a waste of time,” noted Singh. Singh further promoted the incorporation of the Gandhian ideology on campus, saying “In my mind putting a statue of Gandhi on a university campus is like having a combined course on ethics, morality, and international development, without the teacher or exam. It is a constant reminder of a man who never compromised on his principles and there is no better way to empower students.” Singh highlighted the importance of Gandhi’s teachings regarding the reciprocal process of learning. He drew particular emphasis to the need for professors to learn from their students, as given their globalized exposure to the world, they “are more in tune with societal needs and change.” He stressed that a crucial role of the professor is to “promote student engagement through, for example, courses, dialogues, inter-disciplinary programs, and peace centers.” “In short,” he added, “I would say it is our job to give them a Gandhian empowerment.”
University Rankings
Discrepancies in university rankings rankings], which is rewarding,” he said in an interview. “It shows that McMaster is pretty good at everything it does.” ‘Tis the season for visits to campus from People should be wary of taking the rankeager high-school seniors. ings too seriously, though. As University Last Thursday, annual Canadian univer- president Patrick Deane explained, the ranksity rankings were released to inform their ings “provide a snapshot of one moment in decisions. The Globe and Mail’s Canadian time.” University Report and Maclean’s University Their methodology, he noted, is not conRankings offer up a fresh batch of statistics, sistent. Maclean’s focuses more on the repuplacing McMaster relatively high in many tation and financial aspects of schools, while categories. the Globe and Mail looks to McMaster maintained its students for input. This can sixth-place standing in the lead to discrepancies between I don’t think any Medical Doctoral category the results. one of the rankings For example, the Maclean’s from Maclean’s rankings. The publication makes sums up the state University Report, now in such comparisons by using 21st edition, recently had of the University, its fourteen numerical indicators to reorganize its categories, but as a group, from each institution, using which are determined based such data as the amount of on range of program offerings they do provide research money, number of and funding. an interesting student and faculty awards, Determining how universiand number of library hold- perspective on how ties should be compared is a ings. complex process, and leaves we’re doing.” In The Globe and Mail room for debate. rankings, which assign “I don’t think any one of grades to each school based on a survey of the rankings sums up the state of the Uniover 30,000 undergraduate students, Mc- versity,” Deane said. “But as a group they Master averaged out around a B+ in multiple do provide an interesting perspective on how measures of student satisfaction. The Univer- we’re doing.” sity scored particularly well in student-faculty All of this comes in the wake of the reinteraction, teaching style, campus atmos- lease of the Times Higher Education Report, phere, recreation and athletics, and buildings released in early October, which placed Mcand facilities among other large universities. Master 65th on its list of the world’s 100 best Not surprisingly, McMaster received a universities. McMaster was one of five Canlower grade than all others (C-) in ease of adian universities to make the list. course registration. “I’m always very proud of that,” said Dr. Peter Smith, VP Academic, is pleased Deane of McMaster’s rank. “It actually sugwith the University’s performance. “Mc- gests an institution that is very powerful for Master generally does well in all of [the its size.” Julia Redmond The Silhouette
A4 • THE SILHOUETTE
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2011
Simulated Learning Post-Undergraduate Employment
Students discuss union issues Dina Fanara
Assistant News Editor
Led by professor Sam Vrankulj, the students of Labour Studies 2A03 (Unions) were given a rare opportunity to participate in a Policy Resolution Convention simulation on Nov. 1. The event normally occurs whenever a union changes a resolution and allows all members to vote on the changes made in a unionwide gathering. According to Vrankulj the exercise was part of the department’s “innovative approach for teaching students about unions.” Each class member is placed in either a Union Local role, representing a specific type or worker within the union, or a Union Committee, responsible for organizing one aspect of all Union Locals. Each group was responsible for presenting a policy resolution to be approved or rejected by the rest of the class, as well as a support and opposition for a pre-assigned resolution of another group. The union created within this classroom environment is called the Canadian Union of Diversified Workers (CUDW). According to Vrankulj, “The primary goals of the course are to provide students with some insight into the collective action dilemmas faced by unions, the tensions involved in achieving consensus around policy and bargaining issues amongst diverse groups of workers and the reasons why unions see collective action and involvement in politics as crucial for advancing the interests of working people.” This is the sixth year that the con“The parvention simulation has run. As ticipation per tradition, of union Vrankulj invited influenleaders tial members of in the local union life simulation to guest-host this event. increases Guests learning included Matt by enhanc- Root, president of CAW Local ing real555, which ism, and represents Mcbuilding Master support staff, Tom student secfamiliarity Atterton, retary of the and under- Hamilton and standing.“ District Labour Council, and Mary Long, president of the Hamilton and District Labour Council. Long is proudly the first female elected to the position of president. While the experience was designed to provide students with experience of the inner workings of a union, playful twists were also placed on the event. Humourous false names were given to the executive board: Ida Know as Union Trustee, Bill Fold as National Secretary Treasurer, Les Ambishus as Vice President, Ivona Powers as President, Ike Ountem as Convention Teller, and finally, Hugh Morless as Sergeant at Arms. These positions were held by the two class teaching assistants, Professor Vrankulj, and the three guest hosts. Also, donuts and carbonated beverages were provided for the entire class by Vrankulj. This was explained to be part of the Union culture, and a staple at all Union meetings and gatherings. In her introductory speech to the convention simulation, Long explained to the class that the goal of this conference and class’s experiencial setup is to define union priorities, balance membership needs and preserve “the rights that our parents and grandparents struggled to win.” Vrankulj added, “The participation of union leaders in the simulation increases learning by enhancing realism, and building student familiarity and understanding of the local labour movement while simultaneously cultivating crucial links between the broader labour movement and the Labour Studies Programme.”
“A piece of paper does not get you a job” Investigating a degree’s relevance in the working world
TYLER HAYWARD / SENIOR PHOTO EDITOR
Bushra Habib & Ruth Thsikonde The Silhouette
The Globe and Mail featured McMaster’s approach to education in an Oct. 24 article, examining correlations between an undergraduate education and the quality of jobs graduates could obtain. The recent recession resulted in the creation of over 300,000 new jobs for those possessing an undergraduate degree, however, over 430,000 individuals lacking post secondary education lost their jobs. “A piece of paper does not get you a job,” expressed Kathryn Hryb, a Career Consultant at McMaster’s new Student Success Center (SSC). “Rather, it is you as an individual who gets yourself the job. Students have to actually put in that extra effort on the side and understand that having a degree itself doesn’t always get you a job or one that they will truly be satisfied with.” Universities are facing constant pressure from students and their families to improve the educational experience and the value
of a university degree by increasing other opportunities for students to develop skills and increase their marketability. Such avenues for gaining an edge in the job hunt include cooperative education placements, internships and formal records recognizing volunteering activities and extracurricular involvement. Making a university education a worthwhile and beneficial experience has important financial implications for graduating students, who have invested time, effort and money into their degree. A 2008 Statistics Canada report showed that Canadian undergraduates earned 70 per cent more than those with only a secondary education or experience in the trades. In 2009, it was reported that 82 per cent of adults between ages 25 and 64 with a diploma or degree were employed, whereas those who had not completed their secondary education had an employment rate of merely 55 per cent. “The employers value a student’s credentials, yet they also value a student that is able to bring more than just basic knowledge,”
said Jacquie Hamsphire, the Event and Marketing Coordinator at the SSC. Hamsphire further explained, “they want people with experience and who bring skills to the table in order to expand their companies.” The Globe and Mail article found that McMaster, among others, including the University of Alberta, was measuring up well to these growing expectations to prepare graduates. This progress is partly due to its focus on experiential learning. Experiential learning allows students to gain valuable experience that supplements their academic pursuits through avenues including involvement in research. “Innovations like experiential learning truly help students build the skills that the workforce is asking for,” said Hamsphire. “It enables them to gain confidence on making the right decision as to whether the career path they are choosing is truly for them.” “It gives students the opportunity to experience the career path they want to follow on a hands-on basis through things such as the job
shadowing program, which begins in November,” added Hryb. “We have found that many students have gained summer job opportunities, internships or even have just learned what they like and dislike. These programs are offered for students from any faculty at the school, so there is something for everyone.” While McMaster experienced a drastic increase in first-year enrollment this year, other universities reported similar trends, with Ontario universities accepting a record breaking 90,0000 students in September, putting additional strain on universities to adapt and accommodate an increasing number of students. The Student Success Center offers networking opportunities, orientation programs to first-year students, workshops on academic skills and chances to get involved with extracurricular community service activities. Communication skills, the ability to work with a team and adaptability are some skills that are currently in high demand in the workforce, according to Hryb and Hampshire.
Mac supports Fair Trade vendors Dina Fanara
Assistant News Editor
Each year, McMaster’s Ontario Public Interest Research Group (OPIRG) joins forces with local stores and vendors of fair trade products to put on the annual Fair Trade Fair in the McMaster University Student Centre (MUSC) atrium. The fair, which has been taking place for over ten years, shrunk slightly in size this year, but is still
going strong. Products for sale included the usual Fair Trade Certified chocolates, coffee, and tea, jewellery from all over the world, Christmas ornaments, clay and wooden figurines, clothing, journals, soaps, moisturizers and several other odds and ends. Also present at the Fair was McMaster’s Engineers Without Borders (EWB), promoting Fair Trade Certification awareness, focusing on educating students on
the process for products to become certified, and why it is important to purchase Fair Trade products. According to one EWB volunteer, Meaghan Langille, fair trade “promotes social responsibility by ensuring that that the people who made the product that you’re purchasing were paid a fair wage and ethical working conditions.” “It’s a great way to promote a global economy,” she said about the event. “It’s something that we
can do to help people in developing countries through what we are purchasing and consuming,” said Langille. It was widely expressed by several vendors that a second-term event, which used to occur but was stopped several years ago, would be greatly beneficial to the cause. Another suggestion was to add another day to the first-term fair, as many students asked vendors if they would be returning the next day.
RICARDO PADILLA / ASSISTANT PHOTO EDITOR
Students gather to hear the stories of the artistic creations and do some shopping at the Fair Trade Fair.
THE SILHOUETTE • A5
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2011
Fair Trade Initiative
EWB scares them Fair Kacper Niburski
Assistant News Editor
Although Halloween may be a time where our younger selves yearn the bygone days of mountainous piles of sweets and goodies, a group of students from McMaster, dressed primarily in gorilla costumes, have found something else to go bananas about. In an effort to promote Fair Trade consumption and awareness, Engineers Without Borders (EWB), World University Service of Canada (WUSC), and MacGreen participated in an annual reverse Trick or Treat campaign entitled “Scare them Fair” on Oct. 31st. Members, many of whom dressed as bananas, the Fair Trade product logo, or gorillas, gave out Oxfam Belgian Mini’s, one of the many Fair Trade chocolates sold in Canada, to unsuspecting passer-bys while participating in an open dialogue regarding the merits of Fair Trade, a stance taken by ethical supply chains. “That’s the beauty of it,” said Amy Tang, a member of the EWB McMaster chapter. “Not only we’re we out there giving sweets – Fair Trade ones at that – but we were also giving information.” Much of this “information” was meant as an introduction to Fair Trade for those who had not heard of it before and an attempt to clear up any ambiguities to those who have. “Contrary to what the name of the campaign suggests, we want to use the fun of Halloween to start conversations with students, faculty, staff, and the general Hamilton community,” said Brandon Desbarbieux, coordinator of Fair Trade Awareness for EWB. The event stands as an ongoing drive for consumer responsibility in the marketplace that originated in Vancouver, Canada’s lar-
gest Fair Trade city and home to Canada’s first Fair Trade Campus, University of British Columbia. Similarly, McMaster is seeking Fair Trade Campus status. Tang noted that it has been a topic constantly up for discussion, and “that much of the faculty support it: Patrick Deane, Ilene-Busch-Vishniac; those are just some of the many.” Some, however, have been known reject Fair Trade because it is often more expensive than other producers. “This is a common misconception,” said Tang. “It does not have to be more expensive. If you look at Union Market, if you look at OPRIG Office on the second floor of MUSC, if you go to any chain super market, it is not. It actually costs less.” Financial costs are only one consideration though. While it is true that money may be the mitigating factor for some, it is certain that the social benefits are unquestionable. Even if it is the case that finances are a concern, the social costs greatly outrun the worries of any paper trail. Tang argued this point. Highlighting the “Scare them Fair” event, she added that this pursuit of equitable consumption is becoming more popular, even at McMaster. “When we were giving the chocolate out, a girl said, ‘Look, Mommy! Fair Trade chocolate.’ She didn’t say chocolate. She specified the kind. That’s evidence enough of the movement spreading.” This, coupled with the joint advocacy of ethical purchases by three groups at McMaster, may very well be compelling. If it is, then perhaps in the near future, Halloween will become a time of united chants, “Monkeys. Bananas. Fair Trade. Oh my.”
TYLER HAYWARD / SENIOR PHOTO EDITOR
EWB members dressed in a variety of costumes to advocate Fair Trade.
Provost will pursue research after leave Effects of hospital noise to be investigated sor in the department of Mechanical Engineering at McMaster. munity in our important work,” said Busch- Prior to her role as Provost at McMaster, Vishniac. she held the position as dean of Engineering “Once I complete my term as Provost, I at Johns Hopkins University, a very rare poswill take a special research leave to help me ition for a woman. return to my research and to teaching.” “When I was hired as dean of engineer She further explained, “In particular, I am ing at Johns Hopkins, I was the third woman very excited that the work my collaborators who was the dean of an accredited engineerand I have done since 2005 ing school in the United States. has led to significant worldI don’t think there were any wide interest in controlling in Canada at the time,” said “Once I complete Busch-Vishniac. the noise in hospitals”. The hospital noises are my term as Provost, The search for next year’s disruptive, but their potenProvost is currently underI will take a tially harmful effects have way. But before her term ends, special research often been dismissed. Busch-Vishniac aims to wrap “It doesn’t kill anyone, leave to help up some of the loose ends and so who cares,” has been secure some of the projects that me return to my the prevailing view on the are in their beginning phases at research and matter according to Buschthe time. Vishniac, noting that, in “My goals are very teaching.” fact, it has been suggested simple,” she said, “I would like that patients exposed to to ensure that the work we have noise do not recover as begun on IT systems renewal is quickly. moving along well, that the development of a Her research in 2005, conducted at Johns new budget model is complete … and begin Hopkins Hospital sparked some discussion, implementation of [Patrick Deane’s] plans for as it is highly unusual for a hospital to allow strategic enrolment growth at the undergraduresearch to be published on the potentially ate and graduate level.,” referring to the letter harmful effects its practices might be having written by Deane addressed to McMaster, on patients. Nonetheless, the university sup- outlining the direction for the University in ported the research. “Now it is becoming im- coming years. portant, and I want to be a part of that,” said Sporting what she refers to as a “goofy Busch-Vishniac. grin,” Busch-Vishniac said, “My home is While focusing on her research, Busch- here, my heart is here, so when I finish being Vishniac will also continue her role as profes- Provost, I will be taking my leave here.”
• CONT’D FROM A1
A6 • THE SILHOUETTE
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2011
EDITORIAL
editor’s extension: 22052 letters: thesil@thesil.ca
On bullying and gay rights, we’re stuck in the dark ages
The Silhouette McMaster University’s Student Newspaper
TheSil.ca
Editorial Board Executive Editor... Brian Decker
This is 2011, and we’ve come along way. We have phones that respond to your speech, instantaneous worldwide communication and cures for crippling diseases. But we’re still in the dark ages. There are people who are still ostracized and denied basic rights because of their sexual orientation. We’re still trying to preach tolerance when we should be past that. We should be embracing diversity by now. And if you think that’s sounding like a broken record, and if you say you’ve already heard too many people preach, you’re right. For too long, it’s been necessary to try to get people to understand that gay people aren’t second-class citizens. We should be past this by now, but here we are. There are still gay and lesbian kids being bullied into suicide. For some reason, failure to accept homosexuals in our society isn’t considered totally unacceptable. Instead, it’s up to Rick Mercer, whose signature rant following the suicide of 15-year old Ottawa teen Jamie Hubley urged gay public figures to come forward and show their support. Sure, politicians weigh in whenever the issue is topical and condemn bullying, talking about a free, multicultural society. This week, Dalton McGuinty spoke out about Hubley’s tragedy and urged people to show more support. But that’s a case of a politician doing what politicians do: saying the right thing at the right time in a way that’s just strong enough not to offend any potential voter or to get too much attention. It makes sense to hope that a major political leader will champion gay and lesbian equality, and it would
Managing Editor... Sam Colbert Production Editor... Jonathon Fairclough Senior News Editor... Farzeen Foda Asst. News Editor... Dina Fanara Asst. News Editor... Kacper Niburski Opinions Editor... Andrew Terefenko Sports Editor... Fraser Caldwell Asst. Sports Editor... Brandon Meawasige InsideOut Editor... Natalie Timperio Asst. InsideOut Editor... Cassandra Jeffery Business Editor... Sonya Khanna
We should be past this by now, but here we are. There are still gay and lesbian kids being bullied into suicide. For some reason, failure to accept homosexuals in our society isn’t considered totally unacceptable.
Senior ANDY Editor... Jemma Wolfe ANDY Music Editor... Josh Parsons ANDY Ent. Editor... Myles Herod Senior Photo Editor... Tyler Hayward
be erroneous to suggest that there aren’t those who have tried. But it’s also a little unrealistic to expect someone so focused on the issue to be elected in the first place. And besides, this isn’t something we should need a politician to do. This is bigger – something everybody has a responsibility to do. Somehow, for many of us, it’s still acceptable to call someone a fag in a pejorative sense, and it’s still acceptable to express disapproval by calling something gay. Will eradicating those two words help to stop teen suicides? Maybe, or maybe not. But that is exactly the point: there is no easy fix for the assault on gay and lesbian rights that, even now, is still going unnoticed in plain daylight. The Globe and Mail published an editorial on Oct. 27 following Mercer’s rant, criticizing Mercer for placing the onus on gay public figures to show their support. It’s an unfair burden, it said, and one that should be shared by all members of society. Targeting Mercer’s rant probably doesn’t help, but the Globe was right about one thing. They said – ambiguously – that the responsibility to deal with this problem falls to everyone. There isn’t an easy solution, and it doesn’t help that we should so obviously be past this thoughtless prejudice by now. But that’s the reality we’re dealing with, and it’s time for everyone to pay attention. The continued bullying of gay and lesbian kids and the off-hand bigotry tossed around carelessly in their face doesn’t belong now. It’s 2011. Let’s be done with something that belongs in the past and start living in the present. •
Legal 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 university officials. 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.
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to psychological analogies. to eugene. to hay coming out of your mouth. to look cool. to preposterous hypotheses.
to prejudism. to watership down. to one of your cds being missing. to unneccessary exclamation marks.
to giving pete a chance.
to chicken-egg situations.
to murrayland.
to yoko ono situations.
to buck country.
to love triangles. fleetwood mac situations.
to a central park in newark. to the talking stove.
to dead budgies.
to my bluetooth friend.
to white supremacist gigs.
to asperguilius fernigus.
to gymnasts.
to david hasselhoff.
to ogres who work in the library.
to flute of the commodores.
to loud eaters.
to the galub jamuns. they’re off the hook.
to the novelty music paparrazzi.
to funky, funky eyepatches.
to really big biscuits.
to that scene from top gun. to murray swearing at us.
to dubbed video dubs. to bulimia. to having lightning bolts on your wanger.
THE SILHOUETTE • A7
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2011
OPINIONS
production office extension: 27117 opinions@thesil.ca
Sharia law’s mirrored flaws Ryan Mallough Silhouette Staff
Hands were shaken, high-fives were exchanged, backs were patted. It was finally over. Libya was free. The West saw through a regime change in the Middle East and did not mess it up. We watched Muammar Gaddafi’s 43-year reign be reduced to a grainy image of a battered man. We watched the National Transitional Council leader, Mustafa Abdel Jalil, declare Libya liberated. We did it. And then we watched Jalil declare the new Libya, “as a Muslim nation have taken Islamic sharia as the source of legislation.” The Western reaction was palpable. Libya went from being the global standard for intervention practice success and newfound regional ally to pariah and potential enemy, all in a word: sharia. It begs the question: what exactly did everyone think was going to happen? There is perception amongst the Western media that is decidedly American, but can trace its routes to European colonialism, that a freed country will – and should – conform to Western standards upon its liberation. It’s the perception that Libyans should have been sporting red and white pants and star-spangled hats, launching fireworks in the streets, belting out the Monday Night Football Theme and quoting Thomas Jefferson. It’s the perception that a nation with the chance to choose a new constitution and a new system of governance would automatically choose the Western way. These perceptions speak to the great ignorance of the West. The reality is that much of the world outside of the West, particularly the growing economic areas in
INSIDE HEADTOHEAD The Conservatives are ending long-gun registration in Canda. Was this the best course of action for our nation?
Page A10
Feedback Find out how other students feel about genetically-modified food.
Page A11
SILHOUETTE FILE PHOTO
Jalil is bringing Libya to a new age under sharia law, and the West is getting uncomfortable. Asia, South America and Africa, as well as the Middle East, view the Western world as a dying civilization. The West is clearly losing its grip on the seat of military or political power, and the recent financial crisis has highlighted the perils of western capitalism. When looking at it from that perspective, who would want to emulate the West? There are some legitimate concerns with a nation building its constitution around sharia law. Sharia property and family laws are decidedly discriminatory against women, it condemns homosexuality and, if taken too literally, sup-
ports archaic forms of punishment such as flogging. When sharia law is discussed in the West, the focus is on these negative aspects. However, a society based around sharia law can still function in the 21st century. Egypt’s constitution cites sharia law as the main source of legislation and maintains a high degree of secularism in both its laws and its societies. It is far more likely that Libya will take after Egypt’s approach to sharia law than Saudi Arabia’s. It is too soon forgotten that Western laws are largely based on the Catholic Church and Christi-
anity’s Ten Commandments. In fact, the commandments are depicted on the U.S. Supreme Court building, the house of Western law. Furthermore, we come from a region that took hundreds of years to legally recognize the equalization of women’s, religious, and race rights, and we continue to struggle to uphold equality on a daily basis. And we have the gall to oppose a system laws of a newly liberated country that is based on the religion of 97 per cent of their population on the basis that it might be too conservative for our liking? Shame on us.
Opinions is always looking for passionate writers. Send an e-mail to opinions@ thesil.ca or come to the meetings Fridays 12:30 in MUSC B110 and get your voice out there.
Unsubscribe to this terrible trend Natalie Timperio InsideOut Editor
YouTube, how do I love thee? Let me count the ways. Like any technologically adept person, I value YouTube for its many uses. I’ve bookmarked the site on Firefox and frequent it most often to watch beauty tutorials. Ladies, and perhaps gentlemen, there is quite possibly no better (and free) forum in which to perfect those sought-after hairdos and makeup looks—it’s like having an at-home beauty consultant free of charge, which is especially beneficial for pennypinching students. Sometimes, on the rare but notable occasion, I’m even overcome by a stroke of studiousness (or possibly hopelessness over that looming midterm) and use YouTube to watch news clips capturing significant moments in history or current international affairs. Of course, I do enjoy a cats-doing-cutethings video from time to time as well. With the exception of watching cute kitty videos, I do use the site primarily as an information source. Its usefulness has been proven time and time again. In fact, I’m unsure as to how the world functioned prior to the advent of Youtube. After all, where else can you learn to beautify both your outer and inner being without ever having to leave your computer? But when the world in which I live has deemed shows like Epic Meal Time worthy of being called entertainment, I wonder even more how the world functioned prior to. To say the least, I’d say we were far more intelligent, to confirm my grandparents’ rants on today’s generation. Up until last week, I’d taken no interest in these and many other YouTube divas. Though upon Epic Meal Time’s tour stop at TwelvEighty Friday Oct. 21, my curiosity at last took flight. Despite whisperings of an awful performance, as a fairly well educated individual I’ve learnt to set aside all prior judgements before devising one of my own. And now, after having watched Epic Meal Time’s “best of” on Youtube, I can at last say that I see the value in vegetarianism. The whisperings heard around McMaster campus were proven quite true. Epic Meal Time’s celebrity status on YouTube leaves me questioning what we, as blooming adults, value in today’s
JOY SANTIAGO / MULTIMEDIA EDITOR
The internet has opened up entirely new avenues to fame for those of us extremely undeserving of it. day and age. Since when is compiling grotesque and gargan- placed value, at least to a degree, on nonsensical diversions. tuan meals of fatty foods considered entertainment? Goliath- I fully understand wanting and needing to momentarily sized, obesity-inducing platters of meat slapped together by escape life’s burdens by distracting ourselves with something a sorry group of macho men, and I use the word men gener- that does not require “thinking” –as God knows we do enough ously here, is hardly deserving of being called entertainment, of that in our lives already. Or do we? much less deserving of a tour. In the case of Epic Meal Time, consider the amount of Let’s put things in to perspective: my five year-old broth- food it takes them to put on just one show. Consider the sexist er, who has just recently entered senior kindergarten, finds innuendos embedded in their shows, or even outright spoken. it quite humorous to mash different foods together, like hot I suppose years worth of education regarding hunger issues dogs, macaroni and cheese—you get the picture, I’m sure. and gender equality, which are most often learnt in primary Even at his age I see him quickly growing out of this pastime, school, have no standing when it comes to YouTube divas. Or however. perhaps they do, we just choose to make the exception. How old are the men of Epic Meal Time? Though I do not It seems too easy to dismiss these and other similar values doubt that their birth certificates indicate clearly that they are for the sake of quick-fix “entertainment”, especially when it’s well over the age of five, their performances say otherwise. truly just a click away. Though last time I checked, endorsing Yet, by endorsing Epic Meal Time and other YouTube counter-values like gluttony and sexism were far from being divas by, say, subscribing to their channels, we’ve somehow okay—unless, of course, they’re popularized on YouTube.
This Week in Opinions Grub Genetics
Nature’s Folley
In Bus We Trust
There’s a lot of misconceptions around genetically modified food, and we are here to clear those up.
Popular granola and cereal bars have similar nutritional value as candy bars. Discover how you’re going to change your health-centric habits.
The HSR is starting to let us down and in some cases, not even let us on. Dive into the deep dark world of Hamilton public transport.
Pg. A8
Pg. A9
Pg. A10
A8 • THE SILHOUETTE
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2011
Lab chow needs a second chance now Jennifer D’Cruz The Silhouette
“We are what we eat,” is an age-old adage familiar to almost everyone, but today it is becoming increasingly more questionable with the advent of genetically modified (GM) foods. Initially, in the 1940’s the Green Revolution transformed farming practice to create high-yielding crops through usage of pesticides, intense breeding and better access to irrigation. However, that has shifted into the Gene revolution, which includes transgenic or GM foods. Advocacy groups such as Green Peace and the Council of Canadians argue that GM foods are a health risk and think that with proper distribution of food (“sharing”), these GM foods are unnecessary. However, I disagree with these statements and instead believe that GM foods are important and necessary in our society. All living organisms have instructions (gene) coded in DNA. GM foods contain additional genes cut and pasted from another organism in order to achieve a desired trait. For example, a gene from Bacillus thuringiensis bacteria that produces a protein-killing Lepidoptera larvae (insects) is “cut out” and cloned. Next, gene guns are used to deliver desired genes at high speeds into corn. Hence, this transgenic Bt Corn does not require spraying of insecticides. In this way, crops can be genetically modified to be salt-tolerant, drought tolerant, pest resistant, herbicide tolerant and disease resistant. Having these characteristics are important in yielding a higher productivity of crops. It is estimated that the world’s population will grow from the current 7 billion to 9 billion by 2050. The UN Food and Agriculture Organization (UN FAO) predict that such a population growth will require a boost in food production by 70 per cent. Moreover, the international Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) predicts that crop yields in developing countries will reduce by 50 per cent due to climate change. Added to that is the fact that 30 per cent of crops harvested is lost due to pests. Combined, these three facts stress the importance of increasing crop productivity in the future. Otherwise, food prices may continue to rise, considering that
in February of 2011 the UN FAO reported a record high food price index particularly for rice and maize. Not only is productivity decreasing due to climate change, but also the years of fertilizers and pesticides usage have degraded soil and water supply. By adding pesticide resistant gene to GM foods reduces carbon footprint. For instance in 2007 alone, GM foods saved 15.6 million tons of CO2, which is equivalent to 6.3 million cars off the road by just cutting back on herbicide and pesticide usage. Now imagine 500,000 children becoming blind each year and then half of them dead within the next 12 months. As reported by the World Health Organization, this actually is the harsh reality in Africa and South-east Asia due to a mere vitamin A deficiency. However, with a sigh of relief, Dr. Ingo Potrykus and Dr. Peter Beyer created GM Golden rice in 1999. The edible seed of this rice contains an additional gene for β-carotene, which is a precursor (inactive form) to vitamin A, which was otherwise not present. Research shows that every gram of Golden rice contains 35μg of β-carotene. Hence, one cup (nearly 200 grams) of rice delivers 55-70 per cent of the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for men and women. This rice has a golden orange colour due to the added β-carotene, the same substance giving carrots, pumpkin, papayas, sweet potato and oranges their colour. According to an article published in Nature, unjustified and impractical legal requirements are delaying its entrance
Re: “Mac resists provincial constraints on goals” Eric Valant
The Silhouette
A war is being waged in academia. The long established assumption that research and teaching are complementary roles within the university is under attack and losing credibility. Rather than both activities working to enrich the educational experience of the student, research and teaching are far too often at odds. The outdated notion that there is no conflict here, just cooperative sides working together for the same goal does not hold up in practice. Research is winning, and students are losing, and something must be done to turn the tide. The focus on research arose from the shifting institutional framework of the university rooted in the 19th-century German model of the research university. This model spread during the 20th century throughout North America and beyond, increasingly homogenizing faculty incentive structures across all institutional and disciplinary types. Milem, Berger, and Dev’s important 2000 study shows that tenure, pay grade, and promotion are now largely based on publication and research, all activities that take place outside the classroom. This is where the battle originated; professors now spend more time immersed in publication and research because they benefit from these tasks. A study funded by the Higher Education Quality Council of Ontario involving six of the province’s top universities discovered that 70 per cent of faculty feels the institution values research over teaching, and only 60 per cent of faculty feel teaching is of any importance to the institution. The lack of perceived benefits to becoming the best professor corresponds to the lack of attention paid to that area of duty by universities themselves and the academic administrations that run them. The alarm has been raised by numerous studies. Mary Frank Fox has illustrated how the residual tension has a negative impact through the number of courses taught, hours spent in course preparation, undergraduate advising and teaching load; findings made more troublesome by recent statistics showing Ontario universities as having the highest ratio of full-time students to full-time faculty in the country. This skewed priority results in an increase of independent learning thrust onto students who came to the university under the misguided assumption that their professors would actually take the time to teach them.
WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
Genetically-modified plums bred to resist poxes.
It is students who are caught in the cross fire, faculty are able to increase reward intake through publication incentives, while students are forced to increase independent learning in the absence of their ‘teacher’. Cutbacks in undergraduate advising also have negative effects for the student who is left alone to figure out the confusing world of academia. Furthermore, with professors spending less time in the classroom and more time absorbed in research, the university must hire support staff at an increasing rate to fill in the gaps. Academic advisors are now needed to aid students, and junior and part-time faculty members are required to teach. The result is an increased cost to the university, which translates into tuition hikes for students - students are now forced to pay more, to receive less. The once prestigious title of academic professor has been negated to the derogatory label of ‘teaching load’ a necessary annoyance to some, taking time away from research and publication. Not all professors are as cynical, though even those who attach importance to teaching as part of professorial duties are subjected to the institutional framework in which they operate. The Publication emphasis in the current reward structure is seductive, pulling professors back from the front lines of education. This negative relationship can be mitigated only through institutional and ideological change. Hattie and Marsh state it best in their assessment that academic institutions need to reconsider current policies of reward concentrated on research initiative and include rewards for creativity, commitment, investigativeness, and critical analysis in teaching as well. Structural changes are needed in order to elevate the importance of teaching and counter the deeply embedded principles of research dominance. A balance needs to be restored; teaching and research can be mutually beneficial, but institutional measures need to be implemented to make this a reality Universities are sacred ground for academics to flex their intellectual power, but it is also a place for young minds to absorb ideas, be exposed to academic culture and build on established traditions of scholarship. How can universities create productive and creative academics and informed citizens, if it does not teach them properly? The war must end, and it is up to the university and the public who funds them to negotiate not only a just peace, but a new educational vision.
into markets. Had golden rice been allowed to cultivate in 2002, when it was prepared, approximately 22 million deaths might have been prevented due to vitamin A deficiency. This is sadly equivalent to a nutritional Holocaust. Fortunately, in 2005 Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation funded $450 million to this project to increase the levels and quality of pro-vitamin A, Vitamin E, iron, and zinc through biotechnology. At home, GM foods are beneficial in preventing nutritional deficiency. A recent survey conducted by Statistics Canada found that 70 per cent of Canadians have inadequate levels of vitamin D. The reason being, summers are short in North America and hence people are not exposed to the sun for majority of the year, which is the primary method of attaining this essential vitamin. In other words, Vitamin D cannot be produced by the body but instead must be ingested or triggered by sunlight. However, the public spends majority of their time indoors or in cars, where the sunlight cannot penetrate the glass or sunscreen; hence, Vitamin D is not generated. Vitamin D is important in the prevention of certain cancers, multiple sclerosis, type I diabetes and heart disease. Dr. Schwalfenberg, clinical professor in department of family medicine in Alberta stated that 3000 International Units of vitamin D are required to have an anti-cancer benefit. In today’s society, there is much concern revolving GM foods due to its novelty and possible harmful effects. However, through the lens of history, GM foods have been among us for a long time. Prior to 17th century, only white carrots were available in markets. Later on Dutch growers crossbred and cultivated wild carrots to harvest only orange carrots since they were sweeter and were a tribute to Prince William III of Orange. In this way, generations of white, yellow and purple carrots were wiped from history. Perhaps similarly, white rice may one day become food of the past! GM foods are important for increasing productivity and quality of crops amidst the growing population. The reduced usage of pesticides results in a cleaner environment with increased savings. Most importantly, GM foods permit the production of more nutritional crops. Together, these facts prove true the old saying, “good health comes from the farm, not from the pharmacy.”
THE SILHOUETTE • A9
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2011
Nutrition, omission edition Farzeen Foda
Senior News Editor
As the prevalence of obesity and the proportion of the population at high risk of particular chronic diseases increases year after year, diet and lifestyle continue to be flagged as the top contributors to these unappetizing figures. Meanwhile, the top-dollar brands behind the foods that likely sparked the epidemic have, in recent years, begun looking for a cure, with new and improved health foods, catering to the dietary needs of the average consumer. It is important, however, that citizens remain sceptical of such food claims. According to Statistics Canada, the percentage of males and females between the ages of 15 and 19 classified as obese nearly doubled between 1981 and 2009. During that same time frame, the proportion of the population at risk of developing severe health consequences more than tripled. What changed in 27 years? Comparing food availability in 2009 to 1981, a lot of common food items available in 2009 would hardly be recognized as “food” for the everyday individual back in 1981. Back in those days, if you wanted cereal, you actually had to have a bowl of milk with some kind of crispy topping, usually corn flakes. Flash forward to 2009 and there’s a convenient bar claiming to be the exact same thing, just dehydrated and packaged to fit in the palm
of your hand. Yes, All-Bran cereal bars are the supposed answer. A breakfast on-the-go bar, which looks and tastes, but essentially is nothing like actual cereal, is a good source of fibre, according to the label. While the synthetic cereal bar started gaining momentum, granola bars, also catering to the busy lifestyle of the modernday person, started taking on new roles as meal replacements, protein supplements and overall healthy, quick fillers for the busy lifestyle. A Globe and Mail investigation in December 2010 found that there is essentially no difference between these two-bite treasures and the ordinary sugar-infused chocolate bar. Nature Valley, the pricier and seemingly healthier granola bar, boasting a rich green and brown packaging, successfully gives the illusion that there is something wholesome about the granola bar, and a nice little blurb on the box saying “100% Natural” and “Good source of fibre” should certainly lead one to believe that this product is a key ingredient for a healthy diet. It was found, however, that this miracle bar, advertised as the food of choice for hikers during their long journeys through the wilderness, has nearly the same nutritional value as a Kit Kat bar. Consider the nutritional facts of the 46-g Nature Valley bar versus 45-g Kit Kat. Both have 230 calories, and the granola bar has 11g of fat while the Kit Kat bar has 12g. The drug of choice for
TYLER HAYWARD / SENIOR PHOTO EDITOR
With granola bars at a nutritional loss, all hikers topped the Kit Kat bar in sodium content with 150mg in Nature Valley and 35mg in the chocolate bar. The Kit Kat bar had double the sugar content with 22g compared to 11g of sugar in the Nature Valley bar. So, if you’re going to eat a granola bar, you’re probably craving a chocolate bar, but can’t handle the guilt that would ensue after the first bite. Neither chocolate bars nor granola bars are particularly healthy food choices, but if you’re going to pick one, don’t fool yourself; just indulge in the chocolate bar. It’s just as bad for you, and probably cheaper. It doesn’t stop at granola bars. Nutella, the chocolate spread featuring a stereotypical elementary school teacher in the commercial talking about how she can tell when her students have had a complete breakfast topped with Nutella, is essentially melted chocolate. I’m sure she can tell which students have had Nutella for breakfast. Those are the kids who can’t sit still for five minutes because in a 19-g serving of Nutella, sugar comprises 60 per cent. Advertising is amazing when it comes to tricking people into thinking that they are making healthy choices. High-calorie, sugar-coated junk is not healthy and consumers know it, yet the companies branding junk as healthy food are actually quite successful at fooling people into thinking that their ar-
exercise is more important than ever. tery-clogging product will lower cholesterol or reduce the risk of particular diseases just because 0.001% of the food item contains fibre or some kind of antioxidant. It would seem reasonable to conclude, then, that if a product contains the slightest bit of something healthy, it’s worth consuming even if in a small quantity. A valid argument indeed, however, consumers should take note of what proportion of the product contains the healthy ingredient compared to ingredients that are in fact unhealthy. Many items boasting high antioxidant levels, omega-3s, or any other healthy element often contain extremely high levels of sugar, saturated fats, or sodium as well. While consumers are at the mercy of the print on food labels, health claims on foods continue to boost revenues. It must be noted, though, that the makers of even the seemingly healthiest of foods are much more concerned with revenues, shelf-life of foods, and methods to cutting costs, than the health of citizens. There is nothing wrong with spreading some Nutella on toast for a snack, or keeping a granola bar on hand on a busy day, as long as people realize that those flashy little lies plastered all over the packaging of every single food item must be scrutinized before patronising the food companies that advertise their product as healthy, while they are in fact the root of many public health problems.
The selfish parade of our foreign aid yet it doesn’t matter. The satisfaction you gain form the interaction, if not the same, is almost the same. Sometimes you’re vehemently presenting From personal interactions to aid oran argument to a friend, and in response you ganizations, we do all sorts of things simply simply get, “uhuh…uhuh…uhuh”, accom- because “we care” – or so we tell ourselves – panied by periodic nods. But you continue but we don’t always care to follow up. Truth to present your side – because, of course, is, it often doesn’t matter to us. Our needs you’re so passionate about it, and you’re for altruism are easily satisfied. We cry at only trying to help them. The the picture of a malnournods continue, and finally ished child, and then generthe listener says something Whether we like it ously donate ‘x’ amount of – something completely irmoney. Regardless of the or not, we do things price, the satisfaction rerelevant. Either the person is being that we think are ceived by a genuine desire really nice, or they’re just not “good” up to the to help is almost the same. prepared for the argument. But whether someone reextent that it satis- ceived that money and was Regardless, you passionately continue to present a one-sidfies us and makes able to utilize it in an effected argument, and more often ive manner is beyond us. us believe we’ve than not, the person will spill An aid organization started something might promote action. Do out something contradictory to your viewpoint – instantly it, you’re told, because it great. spilling more beans from you. makes a difference. Yet This cycle continues, for God after you’ve made that doknows how long, until you’ve satisfied your nation, after you’ve done that action, followoral aggressive drive. ing up with a phone call is too much to ask So why do you do it? Why do you for. Will that not make a difference? At the present something to someone that they end of the day, whether we like it or not, we seemingly don’t care about? Why do you do things that we think are “good” up to the try and do a “good deed” when in essence extent that it satisfies us and makes us beit isn’t getting to the receiver? Why do you lieve we’ve started something great. make yourself happy by believing that you Of course, this is a skeptical viewpoint. improved someone else’s life? On the other side of the fence, acting altruis Of course, there are times where your tically could truly benefit a person, a nation, message gets through, where your aid is a generation and so on and so forth. But how received and your helping hand is reached. many times have you heard someone do But sometimes, it doesn’t get through, and exactly that? Mozafer Rajabali Silhouette Staff
A10 • THE SILHOUETTE
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2011
ERIC GILLIS
Silhouette Staff, The Silhouette
AND ANDREW TEREFENKO Opinions Editor, The Silhouette
DEBATE:
HEADTOHEAD Eric: No. The registry required $2 billion to implement. To scrap it now won’t change the fact that money has long been spent. The program costs next to nothing now that it’s been implemented. We will not regain the money we spent on implementing this registry, and the annual costs of it are petty change when viewed in comparison to the services it provides. Andrew: I have to point out that “next to nothing” is only the financial cost of this program. Government workers still have to use valuable time processing, archiving, and retrieving this information, and that time is paid for by Canadian citizens. This is in addition to the time that the farmers, hunters and ranchers themselves have to waste going through the registry process, taking precious minutes out of their all-too-involving work. E: Conservatives claim that criminals with the criminal intent beforehand will not go through the registration process anyway, and so it is useless. However, such prevention of people with criminal intent is not the intended purpose of the registry, and I believe it only goes to further show, as they have done repeatedly before, that they’re simply pushing their ideological views on
this issue rather than observing facts.They’re missing the point of the registry. The registry was meant primarily to identify guns in houses that make reports of domestic violence to police, so that the police may then properly prepare for the possibility of such a weapon being present in a household when they are needed to respond to the situation. A: While I agree that police should be informed of any lethal weapons in citizens’ possession, I feel that the registry does not accurately reflect the kind of uses for which these long guns are meant.These hunters and farmers are already expected to be trained in the use of these weapons, and have to abide by proper storage laws, so what extra purpose does one more archive serve? Their training is already documented by law so the police have a record of the gun possibility for any individual farmer or rancher. E: Some people may fall back upon the argument that guns don’t kill people, people kill people. I agree, but you cannot deny a gun is one of those vile things with only one intended purpose – to hurt or maim living things. And since, by design, it’s sole purpose is to provide the infliction of pain to a thing, I think any argument against its strict regu-
lation is horrendous since it is essentially stating one believes the means to hurt living things isn’t something that calls for regulation. To argue that regulations fail to stop people from doing things is a given – drug use, prostitution and, hell, even jaywalking, all of these things are illegal and yet are rather rampant in our society. Is this to say we should therefore strike these things out of our laws in the name of ineffectiveness, or would we agree they to some extent serve valid purposes? A: The argument at hand is not whether they should be regulated, for there is already ample regulation for gun owners in the form of mandatory training and strict storage laws. The registry isn’t helping to prevent more murders or accidents, because it targets the people who already are public about their gun use and make a living with it. This is merely another form of taxation and regulation on people who are not notorious for using guns maliciously in the first place. E: The argument has also been made by supporters of the abolishment of this regulation that it is a form of criminalization – that it deems them criminals simply for owning a gun, that it implies the government does
Filled on full bus blues Rob Hardy
Silhouette Staff
I am seriously pissed off. It’s probably a sentiment shared by droves of McMaster students, but becomes the bane of our existence upon hearing the words “Move back, please.” And if that doesn’t send your blood boiling, it might be the overcrowding, the missed connections or the waiting outside for insanely long periods of time. I am talking about the HSR. The McMaster Students Union and the HSR have had an intimate relationship for years because as Mac students, we pay a portion of our union fees towards an eight-month bus pass, which we get at a significant discount. Since many students never, or rarely, ride the bus, this is a huge revenue boost for the HSR, which only increases each year as our student population dramatically rises. For those people who ride the bus regularly, this perk is a huge cost savings, though one has to wonder, as one student in last week’s Feedback did, if the HSR is even readily available anymore? I’ve wondered the same thing, and have concluded that it has become a total disgrace. I really began to see the full scope of this problem on the last Friday of September. It was rainy and I was staying late on campus. The phone service had stated a bus was coming at 10:38 p.m. near Mills, and as I got there, many people were already waiting. No bus came, and that hasn’t been the first error I have noticed on the phone system. I decided to come back later as two more busses were due at 11:01 and 11:02 p.m. The first one came, but was extremely full. The second one didn’t come at all. I walked to Main and Emerson to wait for the 11:25 p.m. 5C bus. By now, it was really raining hard and we all had to squeeze into the shelter. Wondering where the bus could be, it finally passed us by at 11:33, eight minutes late, without stopping. There were seven of us there and we were incredulous. Did it seriously just fly right by because it was too full to stop? Does the HSR think that people are willing to wait forty minutes for the next one? I decided to run to the stop near the Health Sciences Centre, which was arriving at 11:43, and it came a couple minutes late. By this time, I had already waited for over an hour just to leave campus. After picking up more people down the road, I wound up standing on an actual seat while I counted 35 other people who had to stand in the aisle (and this was not even one of the longer busses). The problem with buses arriving late is that there are even more people to pick up once they get to their stops, it makes the bus travel more slowly by weighing it down, and the time need to get people on and off is increased. So by the time we got downtown at 12:05, I had missed my next connection because we had taken several extra minutes to get to the core. To make matters worse, busses for that route had now also switched to running every forty minutes, instead of thirty. I had no choice but to grab a bite while I waited. The next bus
Was it right for the government to put forth legislation to end long-gun registration? not trust law-abiding citizens with their own means of self-defence. I don’t see how it implicates such a distrust of citizens. This registry doesn’t do anything to one’s ability to own or maintain one of these guns in their home, gun owners are still fully trusted with that privilege. It simply asks they allow it to be documented, and considering such an object’s purpose, it seems entirely legitimate and necessary to do so. We require people who want to drive a car, a simple means of transportation, to have a valid licence. Arguing that we should not require someone who wants to own a gun to register it, an object literally designed for killing, seems absolutely nonsensical. A: It is correct to closely regulate the use of firearms, but I believe that this particular legislation is only scrapping a regulation that targeted the wrong people. There is definitely a dire need to watch the use of personal firearms, but more so within city cores, not out in the rural expanse where there is little chance of farmers even finding another person to shoot with their hunting rifles. The registration of guns overall is needed, but only when the target of the legislation is people who have a history of misusing guns, not Farmer Joe.
Admiration for our silly generation Erin Chesney Silhouette Staff
RICARDO PADILLA / ASSISTANT PHOTO EDITOR
Buses fill up, while our patience runs empty. wound up also coming late, and with no final connection waiting for me after that, I was forced to walk the rest of the way. Unreal. Two and a half hours to get where you need to go is not cool. Neither is being forced to stand when you have paid fare for a seat. The riding patterns are wellknown, or should be well-known, so it’s not a “surprise” that more than thirty people often need to get on at a single stop. People want to take transit that is safe and comfortable, not cattle cars that pack us in. It is a sad state of affairs when the HSR is claiming they have budget shortfalls, even as they have two full busses worth of passengers crammed into one car. And so much for being able to read when you have someone’s back pack three inches from your face. What’s most irritating to me is the way this city trumpets itself as being so progressive, yet cannot even keep up with the current demand for public transit. This is no longer 1985, and the HSR has to recognize that people need to get where they are going quickly. Buses every fifteen or twenty minutes, for a city this size (and with its challenging geography), is by no means unreasonable. The urban professional demographic that Hamilton seeks to attract is simply not going to relocate here in significant numbers without reliable and innovative transit. You could say that LRT is expensive, but that won’t change the fact that most people without cars are simply not going to put up with this crap if they could live in places which already have, or are in the process of building, much better transit networks. And having been abroad, I know that places like Japan, Shanghai and parts of Europe are light years ahead of even Toronto transit. I’ve also really been wondering why more riders don’t seem to be as upset about this, and thought that maybe Canadians are just way too polite. But probably, they too have written off any hope of the HSR improving prior to them driving on a permanent basis. The standard is totally unacceptable, but it’s clear that by the time anything significant changes, I also will have long abandoned this unreliable system.
“When I was your age, we didn’t have cellphones or cars. We walked up the hill three miles with snow up to our head just to get to school.” If this sentiment is vaguely familiar to you, you know that our generation gets a lot of slack. To some, we are defined by our place in history; we are today’s young adults, Generation Y or the Boomerang Generation because we proceed the post war baby boomers. To others, we are the Peter Pan generation, for we attempt to prolong our adolescence and never grow up, such as the trend of deferring our university experience, so that we can ‘find ourselves,’ a concept that is foreign to our parents. Some even go as far as to identify us by our ideals, claiming we are the entitlement generation, who lack respect and responsibility for our actions. Whether it is our age, our priorities or our attitude, everyone has got an opinion. I am proud of my peers. I think there are so many awesome aspects to our generation that even our parents cannot dispute. We are the era of enormous technological intelligence. Many of us have grown up with computers and have surpassed our parents’ abilities by a long shot. Modern day young adults also have been the brains behind numerous brilliant ideas. Anyone who spends a few minutes on sites like TEDx will learn that our peers are making strives in every domain. In addition, it’s amazing to see that in only a century how many social advances have been made. It was not that long ago that one’s skin colour, religion, gender or sexual preference could have drastically affected one’s quality of life. This is not to say that modern society is perfect, but it has definitely come a long way. Another realm of society that this generation has left a colourful footprint on is in popular culture. In today’s world of Youtube, television and movies, boundaries have been pushed to the extreme. Sex, drugs and Rock and Roll are no longer taboo, but cliché. There are so many revolutionary contributions to today’s entertainment industry that young adults are responsible for. However, I do think there is some validity to the complaints of the previous generation. There are aspects of popular culture that used to be valued in the past, but tend to being forgotten currently. In my opinion, we owe it to humanity to preserve a part of classic Hollywood, while morphing it with our modernly unique twist. I challenge you, dear reader, to join me in absorbing ourselves in the crème de la crème of the popular culture of the past. I have currently taken it upon myself to watch all of AFI’s top 100 movies of all time. As I have dived into this endeavor, I have begun to experience the elegance of the classic romantic film and the intense action of the old westerns. I have also surprisingly learned a lot about the culture and time period that I was unaware. It is fascinating how much more insight one receives about modern culture when learning about the past. In general, I have laughed, I have cried, I have learned and overall I have gained respect for the generations before me. We are walking a thin line. Soon when you go to movies, there will be remakes of our childhood movies. We must honour the contributions of the past, just as we hope our children will embrace and respect the advances we have contributed to society. The day will come when a little one will come running up to you and say, “Mommy, Daddy, can we go see Inception or Avatar in 5D?” To which you will reply, albeit above the sounds of moans, “Back in my day, we didn’t have no 5D…”
THE SILHOUETTE • A11
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2011
?
“I don’t like how those foods take away from the work of local farmers.” -Farhang Ghajar, Multimedia III
What are your thoughts about geneticallymodified food?
Feedback
“I don’t want to eat it, since I don’t know what they put inside of the food.” -Natasha Cullen, Life Sci III
“It’s risky when they are using things like human growth hormones. Research has not been extensive enough in this field.”
-Ned Currie, English II
“A good and bad thing. It’s better to eat from a farm where the food is real and we know where it’s from.” -Jessica Petrunti, Commerce I
Compiled by Ricardo Padilla and Andrew Terefenko
“If it helps feed more people, I am all for it.”
-Caitlin Croley, Humanities II
A12 • THE SILHOUETTE
SpeculatoR The Hamilton
Thursday, November 3, 2011
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2011
INSIDE THE SPECULATOR
A3 - Greeks trade army for tanning oils C11 - Chuck Testa bears all D1 - Textile Count: Birthday Suit F6 - Larry King weds 2/3 Kardashians
Speculating on celebrity homances since 1968
F
Bieb-dashian bi-generational baby Tiberius Slick The Speculator
The part of the world with too much free time was in an uproar yesterday, as details have come forward detailing the reasons behind Kim Kardashian’s sudden divorce from her 72-day husband, a NBA star whose name is unimportant as Kim probably did not remember it herself. The split became public after it was revealed that teen pop sensation and alleged owner of functioning male genitalia Justin Bieber secretly met with and furiously impregnated Kardashian in the ladies’ bathroom at the Staples Center. Kardashian told reporters, “It was a completely natural experience that we both consented to. Justine was a very compassionate lover, and Usher offered very reassuring tips while he propped her up to eye level.” Both Bieber and Kardashian have agreed to keep and raise the child, and having agreed on a name already, are excited for it to be ushered into this world, live on stage next summer. Several major media outlets have already bought the rights to broadcast the birth of Albuquerque Bieber-Kardashian in glorious, detailed 3D. The aforementioned NBA player is “not surprised” at the revelation, as he has been a devoted pen pal and emotional confidante to Selena Gomez for the last two years and cites that
she was “always expecting that cradle-robbing booty wench to make her move.” The future parents have not yet made public their marriage intentions, but Kourtney and Khloe have already made their intentions clear as to the method with which they will determine maid-of-honour rights. As is Kardashian tradition, they will face off in a set of three-game kangaroo courts where they attempt to vindicate an obviously-guilty murderer of his many crimes. It is unclear as of this moment whether Kardashian is wealthy enough to avoid charges of child molestation, but her brother, Rob Kardashian, a possibly-talented attorney, ensures the press that “she is.” The Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation is strongly urging the media to positively portray this union, in fear of damaging the hopes of young lesbians around the world who look to Justin for guidance and hairstyle advice. In tribute to his accomplishment, Bieber plans to name a future album “Rump Stompin’” and promises to make at least half of the tracks thinly veiled references to his conquest of “Kim’s 99 per cent.” In non-baby news, the Greece cabinet has announced that they will put a hold on all referendum decisions until the union of “a small girl and a shapely whore” is not obscuring their crisis in the media. PHOTO C/O THE CHAIRMAN
All three parents of this baby promise to have it enter a world full of screaming girls and reporters.
Mustaches: evil, I tells ya’s! Oskar Olsen Speculator So it starts: Mo-vember. Like every year, the month begins with the promise of being able to grow a beautiful mustache that would put Mario to shame. Like every year, though, men end up with a slightly hairy lip rather than the lion’s mane they imagined. Even worse is the fact that like every year, women stop bleaching their upper lip in support. In short, Mo-vember is a hairy situation. This is not because of the hair, but instead, the lies that it perpetrates. Under the ruse of a global cause, Mo-vember purports to “raise vital funds and awareness for men’s health, specifically prostate cancer.” Or so they say. The only problem with prostate is the bullshit the “cause” is peddling. When one drops the illusion of an illustrious beard, when one forgets about curling the tips of their antiquated hair lip, when one when one shaves the sobering reality of soliciting infinite amounts of sex due to a pornstache, they
arrive at undeniable conclusion: mustaches mean one and only one thing: pure evil. And evil means one and only one thing: world domination. Don’t believe me? Follow me here for a second. With a mustache, people immediately lack credibility. They look unkempt. Dirty even. Still don’t believe me? Enter Rodriguez “Dirt McGee” Sanchez. Every Movember, he dons a mustache. Every Mo-vember, he becomes a villain. Every Mo-vember, he steals millions in jewels and gold and rubies. Still? Enter Joseph Stalin. Enter Adolf Hitler. Enter Vladimir Lenin. Enter Genghis Khan. Enter Captain Hook. Enter Saddam Hussein. Enter Wario. Enter Waluigi. Enter pedophiles. Enter Boris Badenov. Enter Chuck Testa. Enter your grandfather. The list of dastardly crooks, villains, dictators, and taxidermists are long. After years upon years of pure and utter mustached evil, question follows whether the mustache causes evil or whether evil causes the mustache. Simple answer: both.
Because of the mustache, fail. He will be one of them. And so, the evil exists, and evil exists because Then, of course, Jesus will world will be over by the second of the mustache. The two are one in come back. He will have a beard. coming of a mustached prophet. the same. Peanut butter and Jelly. Fat girls and peanut butter and Jelly. Fats girls and everything. While it’s indubitably, unequivocally, and unquestionably true that mustaches are a manifestation of evil, the question then follows why Mo-vember? Why have a season that advocates the growth of pure evil? Because Mo-vember lingers into Decembe-ard, and Decembe-ard is followed by Januhairy, and Janu-hairy leads to Fepube-ary, and Fe-pube-ary folds unto Mar-chinstrap, and Marchinstrap is felt all the way into Apeshitcrazy. I’m pretty sure the last one doesn’t even have to do with hair. But nevertheless, the few months remain balancing on a hairline. Soon, all months will become a cause for hair growth, and soon, the world will be run by Cousin It. Then, all will be evil, and the battle against good and evil will be lost by the bearded, mustached, and hair-lipped. Banks will be robbed by the millions. Anarchy will settle in. The world order will Rowan Atkinson, at age three, used to have a mustache
“What Did You Learn This Week, Timmy?”
“If I could grow one...
I’d play with it every day. ” Disclaimer: Stories printed in The Hamilton Speculator are fact. Any resemblance to persons real or dead is likely intentional and done out of spite. Opinions expressed are those of The Speculator and if you disagree with them you are wrong. And stupid. Possibly ugly as well.
S1 • THE SILHOUETTE
The Silhouette
SPORTS
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2011
The men’s volleyball squad squashes the Waterloo Warriors and Guelph Gryphons on the road. Details on S3
YOUR SOURCE FOR MCMASTER MARAUDERS SCORES, STORIES, UPDATES AND ANALYSIS
MAC POWERS INTO SEMIS
FOOTBALL
Sil Sports previews the OUA semifinal between the Marauders and Gaels. See S4.
WOMEN’S RUGBY
The men’s and women’s soccer teams both advance to the OUA Final Four with home wins in the quarterfinal round. See S2.
The Marauders lose their first game of the year but will have a chance for revenge. Details on S8.
S2 • THE SILHOUETTE
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2011
Women’s Soccer
Men’s Soccer
Ladies off to Final Four Mac wins last gasp quarterfinal Fraser Caldwell Sports Editor
Brandon Meawasige Assistant Sports Editor
The result wasn’t in doubt at the final whistle, but the Marauders celebrated regardless on Oct 29 as they booked their spot in the OUA Final Four. Having won both previous games against their opponents, the Windsor Lancers, by a score of 2-0, the Marauders entered the Sunday afternoon contest with plenty of confidence. Although the Lancers put up a good game, getting several key chances in the second half, the Marauders dominated possession. Forward Natalie Brace scored two goals for McMaster, including a second half highlight reel strike assisted by forward Hayley Marler, and led the offensive charge Marler also added a spectacular play of her own, streaking down the right side of the pitch to fire a rocket just beneath the cross bar after receiving a yellow card for a skirmish with a Lancer defender. The Marauder team, which features three OUA AllStars: defender Cristina Leonardelli, midfielder Melanie van der Hoop and Brace, also earned a CIS top ten
I didn’t think about anything, I just smashed the ball into the net. It felt incredible afterwards.” The quarterfinal tally provided yet another reminder of the Albanian’s immense contribution to McMaster’s campaign this year, a yearlong effort that saw Xhuti decorated by the OUA at the conclusion of the regular season. The midfielder was named as a First Team OUA All-Star and was awarded the province’s Rookie of the Year honour in addition. It all marks an incredible evolution for a player who found himself out of the sport a year ago. After playing high-level club soccer with the CSL’s Milltown FC in Milton, Xhuti entered his freshman year at McMaster in 2010 as a member of the faculty of Engineering. He had high hopes of pursuing his studies while playing
If Gersi Xhuti’s breakthrough rookie season needed an exclamation point, it certainly got one on Oct. 30. With his Marauder team struggling to find a cutting edge in their OUA quarterfinal against the Guelph Gryphons, it was the Albanian midfielder who provided the much-needed spark. After threatening the goalmouth periodically throughout the match, McMaster was awarded a golden opportunity to open scoring in the 82nd minute when the Maroon and Grey earned a penalty kick. When Anthony Costa’s initial attempt from the spot was beautifully turned aside by the Gryphon keeper, the rookie Xhuti led her team to the semifinals. grabbed hold of the spotlight. The first-year Marauder ran alertly toranking with the win. McMaster is now tied for ward the spilled rebound and ham• SEE ROOKIE, B6 tenth in the country with the McGill Martlets and prepare for a semifinal matchup against the Queen’s Gaels who are currently ranked number four in the CIS top ten. The Final Four tournament will be hosted by the fifthranked Laurier Golden Hawks, who will take on the Ottawa Gee-Gees in their own semifinal. The OUA has proven to be a very strong division of CIS soccer this season with all of the final four teams present in the national rankings. The Queen’s Gaels won their quarterfinal game over the Carleton Ravens by a score of 3-0, after posting a regular season record of 14-1-2. If the Marauders are going to win this game, they will to generate offence against a team responsible for a staggering 10 shutouts in the 2011 season. McMaster is certainly looking to surprise the Golden Gaels with something they haven’t seen, as the two teams have not played yet this year. Game time for the Nov. 5 Jeremy Watkin and the Marauders snatched a last minute victory against the Gryphons. semifinal is 3 p.m. JEFF TAM / SILHOUETTE STAFF
Captain Mel van der Hoop has
mered it home off of the crossbar and into the gaping net. Cue pandemonium on the Marauders’ bench and among the smattering of McMaster faithful present at Ron Joyce stadium. For his part, an obviously jubilant Xhuti ripped off his jersey and sprinted across the pitch with his arms held aloft. The Maroon and Grey would double their advantage only a few minutes later, and seal passage to the OUA’s Final Four tournament in Ottawa in the process. But it was Xhuti’s emotional strike that made that progression a reality. In the wake of that weekend victory, the young Marauder expressed his elation after scoring a goal of that magnitude. “It was a great moment,” Xhuti said of the goal. “I had a vision that Costa would miss that penalty, I don’t know why. If you look at the video, I started running as soon as he hit the ball and
JEFF TAM / SILHOUETTE STAFF
soc at va s i lev b u t h d e ma of d e gr co
THE SILHOUETTE • S3
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2011
Cross Country
Men’s Volleyball
Runners falter at OUA meet in Ottawa
Mac does damage on the road
Fraser Caldwell Sports Editor
The Marauders found themselves in an alltoo-familiar position on Oct. 29: trailing behind the Guelph Gryphons. The Maroon and Grey’s cause was hurt from the outset by the absence of star performer Lindsay Carson, who once again finds herself on the sidelines due to injury. On a positive note, Marauder coach Rory Sneyd indicated that the setback is not considered serious, and that Carson should feature when McMaster travels to Sherbrooke for the CIS Championships on Nov. 12. Without the one-time Gryphon in the mix, veteran Victoria Coates led the way for the Maroon and Grey, finishing fourth in the 5 km race in a time of 17:50.1. Jillian Wyman squeaked inside the top ten with a ninth-placed finish to score second for McMaster. The Maroon and Grey’s scoring was completed by Sarah Haliburton in 11th, Stephanie MacNeill in 13th, and Courtney Patterson, who finished in 20th place. The end result for McMaster was yet another silver medal finish at the provincial level, matching the result the team achieved last season. Their respective runs earned Coates, Wyman, Haliburton and MacNeill all nods as OUA All-Stars at the conclusion of the race. Having impressed in previous races, the McMaster men were ranked third in the country entering competition on Oct. 29, but could do no better than fifth at the Ottawa meet. Graham Bowes was the team’s top performer at the OUA Championship, landing in 19th position. Triathlete Andrew Yorke followed close behind in 23rd, while Taylor Reid, Cory McCurry and Andrew Bysice completed the scoring with finishes of 27th, 31st, and 35th respectively. The Marauders will have one final shot at a podium on the most important of stages when they compete in the CIS Championship meet in Sherbrooke on Nov. 12.
Fraser Caldwell Sports Editor
The Marauders are quickly hitting stride, and their rookie contingent is beginning to contribute in earnest. The Maroon and Grey moved to a record of 3-1 on the season after consecutive blowout road wins in Waterloo and Guelph on Oct. 28 and 29. Both the Warriors and Gryphons are tough competitors and were supposed to give the visiting McMaster squad close matches. Instead, the Marauders dealt out straight set defeats to each and regained the lethal form that had seen them deliver a similar beating to the Windsor Lancers in their season-opener. While veteran hitters Jeremy Groenveld, Kevin Stevens, and Jori Mantha carry the majority of the Marauders’ offensive burden, two first-year players have begun to make their presence felt in the lineup. Dan Groenveld, younger brother of the Maroon and Grey’s decorated elder statesman, has seen spot duty in each of the Marauders matches thus far. While he hasn’t exactly lit up the stat sheet, the young outside hitter has shown an exceptionally live arm and a level of raw athletic ability that bodes well for the future. And in McMaster’s latest demolition job in Guelph, the younger Groenveld was a perfect three-for-three in his attacking endeavours and chipped in five total points in a cameo role. Meanwhile, the Maroon and Grey’s marquee middle recruit Alex Elliot made an impressive debut in that same Oct. 29 contest, scoring only three points but demonstrating the steadiest service of any Marauder on court. That skill played a pivotal role in propelling McMaster past Guelph in relative comfort. Both rookies are faced this season with the unenviable task of learning to balance their training and academic requirements, but each one is confident that they have survived the worst of the adaptation process. “It’s going pretty well I think,” Elliot said of the university transition. “It was tough at the start, when you barely notice the workload and then it starts piling up faster and faster. You realize that you have three hours taken out of the middle of your day
FRASER CALDWELL / SPORTS EDITOR
Jori Mantha has been a regular point producer for the Marauders thus far. from practices and workouts.” “So it was tough at the beginning of the year but it’s been a pretty quick adjustment.” For his part, Groenveld is grateful for the number of competitive repetitions he’s been given to this point in the Marauders’ young season, and argues that maintaining his early form is a matter of constant effort. “I’ve been pretty happy getting in when I can and playing whatever role the team needs from me,” said the young outside hitter. “It seems to be going well so far. I started on a high and the level has come down a bit, as school got a little tougher. “It can be hard to keep up, because there are some guys on the team who’ve
been here for two or three years and have a bit of an advantage in being used to university life already and the balance you need between training and school.” Elliot has been faced with a unique challenge this season, as he has been asked to change positions and move from his traditional spot in the middle to the outside. That transition is an exceptionally difficult one, and the young hitter has had his share of trouble adapting. However, for the time being, Elliot finds himself in the middle once again following veteran Ian Cooper’s broken leg suffered at the conclusion of the preseason. “It was really tough changing posi• SEE ROOKIES, S7
S4 • THE SILHOUETTE
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2011
THE SILHOUETTE • S5
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2011
Football
Mac gears up for the Gaels Brandon Meawasige Assistant Sports Editor
The McMaster Marauders are one game away from the Yates Cup, thanks to a six game winning streak that has Mac ranked third in the CIS top ten . On Saturday, Mac will host the Queen’s university Golden Gaels at Ron Joyce Stadium for the OUA semifinal game. The contest kicks off at 4:30 pm and will be broadcast on The Score. Quarterback Kyle Quinlan and the McMaster offense, nine weeks removed from their 26- 2 victory over the Gaels in the sea-
son’s first game, lead the country in yards per game with an average of 530.5. Saturday will surely have a different look than the first time these two teams played; Gael’s running back Ryan Granberg, who carried the ball nine times for 27 yards in that game, finished the season as the nations leading with 1068 yards, averaging 152.6 each game, also chipping in the winning touchdown against Laurier in the OUA quarterfinal game. In addition, The Gaels boast the stingiest brand of defense in the OUA allowing a conference low 308.9 yards per game with 14 interceptions and 19 quarterback sacks.
Quite the suitor for McMaster’s offensive unit ranked #1 in Canada, moving the ball for 530.5 yards per game, over 300 of them coming through the air. Both teams come into the contest on six game winning streaks, poised for a chance to hoist the Yates Cup, which the Gaels got a chance to do in 2009 and McMaster has not been able to do since 2003. A true clash of the titans, Saturday’s game will feature many key matchups including Michael Dicroce, the nation’s top receiver lining up across from a Gaels secondary who shut down a juggernaut Laurier receiving core last week,
KEY MATCH UPS #32 Ryan Granberg Queen’s
Ryan Granberg will also have a tough test facing a stout McMaster run defense that has conceded only two 100 yard rushing performances this entire season. It will be interesting to see the winner of each match up this game will offer. By the time the final whistle blows, a variety of strategic moves from the coaching staff of each team and highlight real plays by the many OUA all-stars on both sides will ultimately determine who will play in the Yates Cup championship game. ‘ The winner of this game will face the winner of Windsor and Western which will also be broadcast on The Score at 1 pm.
#24 T.J. Chase-Dunawa Queen’s
#54 Ryan Chmielewski McMaster
Position; Running back Height: 6’ 0” Weight: 185 Year: 3
Position: Linebacker Height: 6’0” Weight: 220 Year: 5
Granberg has been a breakout star for the Gaels this season rushing for a CIS-high 1068 yards.
Chmielweski does not go one play without making an impact on the run game.
#1 Michael Dicroce McMaster
Position: Defensive back Height: 5’8” Weight: 162 Year: 2
Position: Receiver Height: 5’11” Weight: 192 Year: 3
Chase has spent the season patrolling the Gaels defensive backfield with 4 interceptions.
The cornerstone of Mac’s receiving corps, Dicroce is the most productive receiver in the CIS
VIEW FROM THE OTHER SIDELINE Benjiman Deans Queen’s Journal
PHOTO C / O RICHARD ZAZULAK----
The Marauders show their gratitude to fans who travlled to Guelph to watch Mac beat Gryphons by a score of 37-13
The Gaels’ season isn’t the only thing on the line at Saturday’s OUA semi-final at McMaster. Given the Gaels’ 26-2 home opener loss to the Marauders, there’s a good deal of pride at stake as well. “We got embarrassed at home in front of a big crowd, so we need to rectify that,” CIS-leading running back Ryan Granberg said. “We want a little revenge.” The Gaels beat the Wilfrid Laurier Golden Hawks 14-10 at Richardson Stadium in the OUA quarter-final last Saturday, Oct.
29. The game will be the Gaels’ first OUA semifinal since 2009. They also faced the Marauders in the semi-final that season, pounding them 32-6 en route to winning the Vanier Cup. Following the 2009 playoffs blowout, the Gaels traveled to McMaster for the school’s 2010 home opener. With their championship players lost to graduation, the Gaels lost 18-23. The two teams faced off again in the first round of the 2010 playoffs and the Marauders ended the Gaels’ season with a 40-19 defeat in Hamilton. The game that still stings is that Queen’s 2011 home opener. In quarterback
Billy McPhee’s first start, an offence straight out of training camp failed to score a touchdown, but was missing leading receiver Giovanni Aprile. The loss seemed to forecast another disappointing season for the Gaels. Two weeks later, they turned it around. Head coach Pat Sheahan focused the offence on Granberg. The defence stopped allowing points and started catching interceptions. The team started winning and hasn’t stopped for seven straight games. But the Marauders have some stories of their own. Two weeks after his 349-yard performance at Queen’s, McMaster quarterback
Kyle Quinlan was suspended from his team for three games after a fight at campus bar. He returned as good as ever and leads the CIS in passing yards per game. The Marauders will be coming off two weeks of rest on Saturday. They finished the regular season second in the OUA with a 7-1 record the Gaels were third with 6-2 and earned a bye week. The Gaels have struggled with injuries late in the season. McPhee was on the sidelines last weekend with an undisclosed injury. Backup Ryan Mitchell wasn’t at McPhee’s level, but was good enough to lead the Gaels to a win over the Golden Hawks.
S6 • THE SILHOUETTE
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2011
Men’s Soccer
Rookie Xhuti seals win in style
JEFF TAM / SILHOUETTE STAFF
Gersi Xhuti’s winning goal on Oct. 29 was a crowning achievement in a season that has seen him honoured as an All-Star and OUA Rookie of the Year. • CONT’D FROM S2 soccer at the varsity level, but the demands of his degree convinced the young midfielder to put his Marauder dream on hold. A year later, in full knowledge of what his program demanded of him, Xhuti returned to the Maroon and Grey. And the results could hardly be better. The Albanian credits much of his success at the varsity level to the experience he gained in the CSL, where the young midfielder was pitted against grown men and full professionals on a weekly basis. “The level in the CSL is very high,” said Xhuti. “Playing with older players and more experienced players was a great experience, and it really helped me to grow.
There are a lot of players there who played professionally before, and now they’re retired and play there.” One player in particular had a profound effect on the Marauder’s game, providing a mentor for the raw midfield talent. “Milltown actually signed a Dutch player who had played in the third division in Holland and he was amazing by comparison to our level,” said Xhuti. “He was a left-footer too, so I tried to look up to him and emulate what he did.” The baptism by fire that the midfielder received in the CSL has served him well in the OUA this season, but beyond the technical demands of the sport, it is Xhuti’s attitude toward the sport that aids him in maneuvering through the weekly demands of varsity competition.
“I just try to be calm in every game,” explained the midfielder. “I think of it as a lesson every time I play and it keeps building up and up. And here we are. The bottom line is that I try to do everything I can for the team.” On the topic of the honours he most recently received, Xhuti indicates that he is thankful but that he will not rest on his laurels. “I felt really good about it when I found out,” said the Marauder rookie of his awards. “But I want to become much better than I am. It’s something nice for right now, but my intentions are to move higher.” Xhuti will have an opportunity to do just that this coming weekend, as he and his teammates compete at the OUA Final Four in Ottawa.
The tournament will see the Marauders confront a team they have yet to come up against this season in the form of the Carleton Ravens. But Xhuti believes that unfamiliarity with their opponent will not be a problem for McMaster, and that the team must trust in the brand of soccer that has brought them success to this point. “It is a bit different,” the midfielder said of the tournament. “Because we haven’t seen them play or played them at all. We’re just going to have to look forward to playing our own game. “Up to now, everything’s been working great and so we’ll try to do that again.” The Marauders’ semifinal test comes on Nov. 5 against the host Ravens.
THE SILHOUETTE • S7
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2011
Men’s Volleyball
Women’s Volleyball
Rookies look to contribute Mac faces early challenge Adversity strikes for young squad Fraser Caldwell Sports Editor
The tinkering continues for the McMaster Marauders, but their competition is hardly waiting for it to come to an end. With a young Marauder squad still looking to gel, the Waterloo Warriors inflicted a second loss on the team on Oct. 28. The consecutive defeats are a sobering reminder to McMaster that their growth as a team must come about under the constant pressures of the OUA season. The Waterloo result saw the Maroon and Grey’s early successes on the attacking front reversed, after the visitors had taken the first set. For coach Tim Louks, the key to the change of momentum lay in the Warriors’ ability to shake the Marauders from their technical comfort zone. “I think our game plan was pretty obvious,” Louks said in the wake of the loss. “We were focused on pounding the ball through the middle and making them stop us. But as Waterloo put more serving pressure where they needed to, we were moved out of our system more often. “If you look at our performance results from the outside hitters as a whole, we either made no impact on the match whatso-
ever or a negative one.” The early season adversity stands as the first major test for a largely unproven group of Marauders, and Louks indicates that dealing with such issues is the strength of experience. “We don’t have the years of experience to sustain performances when we’re in the middle of exams, or struggling with injuries. What we miss most from last year is the twenty years of combined experience from players who dealt with those challenges. “We have first year players who are being asked to do a lot with very little opportunity to be good at those things.” Despite the setbacks, Louks remains resolute in his determination to find the winning formula, and instill winning values in his players. “I’m not going to stop searching for the right combination, for the right influences and the right techniques,” said the coach. “We’re going to keep clawing and fighting because we deserve that. But we need to remember that we need to be focused in our commitments.” The Marauders will look to take a step in the right direction this weekend, as they travel to Ryerson on Nov. 4 before returning to the Burridge Gym for a 1 p.m. tilt against Lakehead at the Burridge Gym.
FRASER CALDWELL / SPORTS EDITOR
Kevin Stevens and the Marauders blew out the Warriors and Gryphons. • CONT’D FROM S3 tions, but now I’m back in the middle again after Cooper’s injury,” said Elliot. “So it’s nice to be back, but it was also good to try something new and different on the outside. It’s a matter of a comfort zone in the middle, but I’ll do whatever I can to help the team. “It would be great to develop some different skills and play a more well rounded game.” Both rookies recognize that despite their positive starts to their varsity careers, there is much work to be done as they look to improve their games and that of the team. Elliot is focused on improving his quickness, as the university brand of volleyball is markedly faster than the junior club variety. “I’m still working on speeding things up,” said the middle hitter. “It’s tough
to adjust to the speed of things, and offences get faster and faster as teams start to gel throughout the season. I’d like to speed up my blocking and defence and react better to the ball.” Meanwhile, the younger Groenveld hints that he and his fellow rookie have a role to fulfill in maintaining morale within the team. “I think we’re trying to keep the energy on the team high,” said the first-year outside. “We’re both high-energy players. We come in and we’re yelling and giving high-fives, and trying to keep things positive.” The Marauders will hope that such positive momentum continues this coming weekend, as they ply their trade on the road for a second consecutive week at Ryerson. McMaster will confront the Rams in Toronto on Nov. 4. Meagan Nederveen (left) was Mac’s Player of the Game again on Oct. 28.
FRASER CALDWELL / SPORTS EDITOR
S8 • THE SILHOUETTE
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2011
Men’s Rugby
Women’s Rugby
Star returns to lead Mac to semis
Record is perfect no longer
Fraser Caldwell Sports Editor
Tyler Ardron has been jetting across the globe this season, but the Marauders’ captain returned in the nick of time to help his team advance to the OUA semifinals. The Maroon and Grey’s marquee player had been on international duty with Team Canada, competing with the Red and White at the Pan Am Games in Mexico. Having clinched a gold medal with the national squad, Ardron coolly returned to the chilly climes of Hamilton to lead McMaster to a narrow 23-18 win over the Brock Badgers on Nov. 2. The Wednesday night clash began slowly, with defence largely reigning supreme in the opening minutes. For much of the first half the only points from either side came via penalty kicks, as Brock and McMaster notches two apiece to level the score at 6-6. It was Ardron who would provide the crucial breakthrough just before the halftime whistle, plowing into the end zone for the try. After a successful convert from Andrew Ferguson, McMaster found itself with a 13-6 lead as they headed into the locker room. Brock would immediately push back as the second half opened, managing to both score a try and convert it to once again level the score line at 13. After an extended period of stalemate, it was McMaster that struck, with Jonathan Collins putting a second try on the board for the Marauders. Another penalty from the influential Ferguson would prove decisive for the home side, who nearly cracked under late game pressure from the Badgers. Down a man after an unsportsmanslike penalty from Ardron, the Marauders would manage to hold Brock out of their end zone in the final minutes and seal the 23-18 victory. The win elevates the Marauders to the OUA’s semifinal stage for yet another year, a match they will contest against the Queen’s Gaels in Kingston on Nov. 5. Game time is 1 p.m.
Guelph result changes nothing in national picture Ben Orr
Silhouette Staff
The Marauders’ perfect record did not survive their trip to Guelph, but their season is far from over. Losing for the first time this season, the McMaster women’s rugby team fell to the Guelph Gryphons 36-5 in the OUA Championship on Oct. 29. Played on the Saturday night at Varsity Field, the game marked the toughest test the dominant Gryphons have faced all season. By reaching the final, both teams had already claimed their place at the CIS tournament, to be held in Peterborough on Nov. 3-6. The Marauders came into the match with a 7-0 record, having earned a CIS tournament berth by defeating the Brock Badgers in the OUA semifinal. It will be the program’s first appearance on the national stage since the tournament’s inception in 1998. OUA All-Star Natasha Turner scored the lone try for the Maroon and Grey on the day, as the Gryphon’s attack proved to be too strong to be denied for long. After pinning Guelph in their end early, the Marauders were unable to capitalize on a cold night that saw numerous ballhandling errors. The Gryphons were able to turn defence into offence, and the second-ranked team in the nation did not look back. The title is the Gryphons fourth in a row and 11th since it was first contested in 1994. Both teams will venture to Peterborough this weekend to compete at the CIS Championships. The Trent Excalibur, who were knocked out of the OUA playoffs early by the Queen’s Gaels, will also compete as hosts, giving the province three representatives at the tournament. Rounding out the competition are the top-ranked St. Francis Xavier X-Women (the AUS champions), the Laval Rouge et Or (RSEQ champions) and the Lethbridge Pronghorns (Canada West champions). The X-Women have been ranked first in the nation all season long, and defeated Acadia 60-0 in the Atlantic final for their 14th straight conference title. Lethbridge
PHOTO C/O RICHARD ZAZULAK
Five Marauders were honoured as OUA All-Stars after the quarterfinal match. also enjoyed a dominant undefeated season, culminating with a 41-0 shutout of Alberta in the title match. The title was their sixth in a row. Laval is yet another undefeated champion heading to Ontario, having beaten Concordia 43-27 in the RSEQ final. Trent is hosting the tournament for the second year in a row, and will look to improve on their 0-3 mark posted last year. St. Francis Xavier will be looking to defend their 2010 title, and earn their
third overall. Lethbridge looks to return to the winner’s circle after winning three titles in a row, from 2007 to 2009. Pool A will consist of St. FX, Trent and Lethbridge, while McMaster, Laval and Guelph will play in Pool B. This setup guarantees a rematch of the OUA final between the Marauders and Gryphons. The fifth place, bronze medal and gold medal games will be played on Nov. 6. Matches will be live-streamed on SSN Canada.
THE SILHOUETTE • C1
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2011
INSIDEOUT
production office extension: 27117 insideout@thesil.ca
Amanda Teseo Silhouette Staff
“Hi, I’m single and looking for love. I like long walks on the beach and someone with a sense of humour.” Sitting at your computer, you take a deep breath and click the “Publish Profile” link. The wondrous world of online dating has resided in your mind as a place where only desperate people go to find a mate. It’s true that, today, more and more people are taking the plunge into the Internet dating world to explore the many fish in the sea. But, not all dating sites are the same. One such site that has received a significant amount of media attention is BeautifulPeople. com, a dating site that separates the beautiful from the … not so beautiful. Here’s how it works. You, ravishing dater, upload a picture of yourself (glossed up and Photoshopped, maybe) and go through a 72-hour judgment period, in which your profile is under the ruthless scrutiny of the BeautifulPeople.com community. Members can rate you anything from “yes, certainly” (you make the attractive cut) to “absolutely not” (you are deemed an ogre), and research shows voters on the site hold extremely superficial criteria for beauty. If, at the end of the 72hour judgment period, you do not receive a certain percentage of positive votes, you are rejected from the site. Think the odds are in your favor? Think again! On average, one in eight applicants are accepted onto the site. Even once accepted, members can be kicked off the site for things like gaining weight over the Christmas break or getting a bad haircut. “The site title BeautifulPeople.com is misleading; it sounds like it includes people who are beautiful in not just a physical, skin-deep sense,” explains McMaster student Alyssa Ennis, firstyear Humanities student, based on her knowledge of the site. “It’s cruel because applicants have to ‘audition’ to be beautiful, which is wrong. In the end, it just highlights people’s insecurities by ranking them in a virtual hierarchy.”
RICARDO PADILLA/ ASSISTANT PHOTO EDITOR
For some, a supposed ‘ugliness’ equates to loneliness on BeautifulPeople.com. BeautifulPeople.com uses its virtual hierarchy to release statistics every year outlining the most and least attractive countries based on what percentage of their apply-
ing citizens are accepted onto the site. Are you curious to see which countries came out on top and which fell below the attractiveness cut-off?
The highest percent of male applicants who are accepted onto the site are from Sweden, Brazil, Denmark and Italy, and the lowest percent of male applicants
accepted onto the site are from Germany, the UK, Russia and Poland. For females, the list looks just a bit different. The highest percentage of female applicants accepted onto the site come from Norway, Sweden, Iceland and Brazil, while the lowest percentage of female members come from Korea, China, the UK and Germany. Canada falls right in the middle for both male and female applicants accepted. “Rating countries by the percent of applicants that are accepted onto the site is an inaccurate and almost sad indication for how beautiful a particular country is,” says McMaster student Ibrahim Hasan, third-year Psychology, Neuroscience and Behaviour major. “The argument of subjectivity comes up. Countries should be rated on how much emphasis their citizens put on attaining a certain physical look (i.e. plastic surgery rates), not how beautiful they are.” Many people responded negatively to the statistics BeautifulPeople.com released, some taking more extreme measures than others. In May of this year, the site was hit by a virus called “Shrek,” which accepted just under 30, 000 applicants onto the site without having to endure the judgment process. The people responsible for this stunt are believed to be former employees and rejected members. Greg Hodge, the site’s managing director, released a statement addressing those members who were falsely admitted onto the site: “We have sincere regret for the unfortunate people who were wrongly admitted to the site and who believed, albeit for a short while, that they were beautiful.” For an apology statement, this one seems to dig the knife deeper into the hearts of rejected members. In response, the media called Greg and the BeautifulPeople.com community shallow and extremely superficial. BeautifulPeople.com has also been accused of aiding the spread of anorexia, bulimia and general body image issues. Surely there is more to the definition of beauty than just a rock• PLEASE SEE SURVIVAL, C6
Travel
An impromptu getaway in Paris Jonathon Fairclough Production Editor
I wake up in Ghent to the sounds of streetcars and the bustle of students back from the weekend. The futon I’m couch-surfing on is wooing me with the promise of more hours of dreaming. No, I think to myself. I have to go to Paris. A friend drops me off at the terminal, just in time to see my bus rolling away without me. I wave it down on a busy street, camera and pack in my arms. It’s a sight that amuses the passengers; the driver isn’t so pleased. I roll into Paris just past lunchtime, catch the Metro and transfer twice, and there I was in
Montparnasse. My rendezvous with brothers Dan and Dave was a shady one: “meet upstairs in a cafe called Columbus, from there we’ll call the hostel company and get our apartment.” And there I found them, skinny and beaten by the sun. They’d been hightailing around Europe for a month, living the adventure that so many students dream of but never pursue. They’d made it, and the smiles on their faces were only a hint of the happiness that a summer abroad delivers. We trek it to the hostel, led by a French student in a Canadian tuxedo. Small talk. He said he’d spent several months in Toronto without really doing or seeing anything. We were strangely forgiv-
ing, perhaps because he was ‘the eye’ – the man who could (and would) sternly chastise us for our misadventures, if you’d like to call them that. “Bakery’s there, deli’s there, here is your room”… Boom! We’re eating and getting ready to descend into madness. First stop: Eiffel tower. Why not, right? Buy several bottles of cheap wine from the grocery store, drink, repeat. End up on the grass in front of the tower, talking to the bootleggers and the street vendors who go in depth about their story, their job and the consequences of working the grey market. Drunkenly, we see their lookout system, their eye contact with one another, their warnings
and their hiding spots for the bottled water and cold beer that they sell. Our friends come and go. We stay, fat in the sunshine with good bread and cheap wine in our stomachs. We finish another bottle. I begin to get courageous, ask tourists if they’d like me to take their picture. “I’m a photographer, you know. Do you have a flash on this thing?” We watch the comers and goers, the backpackers and the Americans with fat ankles, the gypsy kids and their pickpocketcons, the Argentinean women with their golden hair and whatnots. The brothers and I share stories of our adventures, the people we have met and the sights we have seen. Dan and I share a sigh of relief. We had been talking about all
Wind down with a massage
Online shopping: to do or not to do?
Relieve tension with a midday, or any time of day, massage.
Use caution when shopping online, or else...
Pg. C3
Pg. C6
things Europe for months and here we were, drunk as sailors under the Eiffel tower. We get up and walk underneath. It’s my fifth time in this city and it still astounds me. The size, the daring. Walk to the other side, hear the Beatles’ “Let it be” being played from a carousel ride, sing to it and make all those around us cringe. We take a metro ride back to the hostel, where we speak to some Texans and surrender to their silly ways: “Y’all live in Canada? What y’all do up there?” They told us they owned guns, numerous guns, and how they miss home. “Europe is so damn different! The food portions are so small!” • PLEASE SEE PARIS, C4
C2 • THE SILHOUETTE
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2011
ThreadCount Ian Goertz
Fourth Year Political Science Favourite Quote: “The answer to the great question...of life, the universe, and everything...is...fortytwo” - Douglas Adams, Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy Favourite Band: Train Describe your style: preppy What do you look for in a significant other: confidence and sense of humour Sweater: H&M, $30 Watch: Fossil, Gift
Photos by: Tyler Hayward
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THE SILHOUETTE • C3
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2011
Hey man, watch your back Keeping up with your health requires proper massage care Jeffrey Wyngaarden SHEC Media
For many, the word shiatsu conjures up images of a beefy masseur hacking and pounding knots out of work-wearied backs, ninjalike hiyas piercing the air as tense muscles are forced into submission. But in reality, shiatsu is a gentle method of massage that uses simple stretches and light pressure to help bring the body into a state of internal harmony. Shiatsu is an Oriental technique that takes a holistic approach to the body, making use of internal energy flow (ki) to get beyond the ‘half-health’ of preventive medicine and achieve total and complete wellbeing. The language and concepts used by the shiatsu masseuse can be difficult to understand or accept. You may have heard of ki or chi, the flow of energy between the yin and yang aspects of existence. Ki has five different qualities, each analogous to one of the five elements: fire, earth, metal, water and wood. A skilled practitioner is said to be able to diagnose a problem simply by looking at changes in the patient’s behaviour, skin tones, vocal inflections and emotions, using the elements of ki to address the appropriate organ group. Thus, a problem that would normally be diagnosed as arthritis might be attributed instead to the stomach or spleen, and treatment would focus on alternative medicine rather than modern Western medical techniques. Most people probably don’t think about balancing internal energy flow or ensuring that meridians are unblocked, and the idea that organs are analogous to elements and can be treated by re-establishing energy flow seems bizarre. But if all this seems strange to you, there is at least one thing that shiatsu has completely right: your physical health is affected by your mental and emotional wellbeing. Massage is a great way to
TYLER HAYWARD / SENIOR PHOTO EDITOR
Take a break from the heavy burden of back-packs and textbooks and indulge in a soothing, uplifting massage. get in touch with your body. You can learn a lot about what stresses you out and where you need to focus your daily workouts by finding those areas where the muscles are tight or where muscle groups are weak and figuring out why they are so. Whether it’s the long hours you spend at the computer or all the lifting you did helping your friend move, your muscles can give you valuable information on which parts of your body need help the most. For many, it’s the upper back and neck, which may be why shoulder massages are so popular. One of the key elements of
a fantastic massage is an emotional connection between the masseuse and the patient. Of course, a professional massage might lack this factor but can still be quite satisfying. Still, there is much more to a massage than simply kneading out the kinks and knots. Studies have shown that physical touch is essential in development, and babies who aren’t held often have a higher tendency to develop social disorders. Babies tend to develop faster and become stronger with regular massage; touch is an important part of personal growth and sexual
exploration in young adults; and those in their later years can enjoy greater flexibility, stronger muscles and healthier skin through regular physical contact. An important thing to remember in giving or receiving a massage is that your environment affects the quality and effectiveness of the massage. A soothing atmosphere, perhaps with warm towels, cushions, pillows and scented oils, is essential for putting your mind at ease and helping you focus on the therapeutic elements of the massage. While it may be beneficial
to limit communication, listening to the other person will allow you to focus on areas that need special attention and learn about their body’s needs. To achieve this you should be comfortable, attuned to your own body and emotions, and focussed on delivering soulful and devoted care. In the midst of midterms and with final exams looming, take some time to focus on your physical and emotional health. Grab a partner, turn on some soothing music, buy a bottle of massage oil (available at many novelty shops and health stores) and relax!
WRITE FOR IO YOU KNOW YOU WANT TO. INSIDEOUT@THESIL.CA
C4 • THE SILHOUETTE
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2011
The Paris chronicles: part one • CONT’D FROM C1 Lay down, fall asleep, wake up to another bustling day – this time no streetcars, but microcars and mopeds, all whizzing by on the street below. Grocery store bread and cold cuts were how we started our day. I did a favour for the hostel owners and picked up a new traveler from the train station. Spent five minutes trying to convince her I’m not going to abduct her, which is especially funny (in hindsight) when I crack a joke about the movie “Taken” on an empty elevator ride. She’s relieved when I show her the room and prove once and for all that I’m not a creep. She wants to come out with us, and we oblige. She’s Scandinavian in her looks, but her speech suggests she’s American. Turns out, she’s West Virginia girl with ten days in Europe, scurrying around and about before she returns to a day job back home. This should be fun. We convince her to come
JONATHON FAIRCLOUGH/ PRODUCTION EDITOR
Seen here the Eiffel Tower; just one of many Perisian hot spots to kick back and relax any time of day. with us and head to Notre Dame, where I realize that my camera lens is partially broken from drunken stupidity. I curse myself and move on; there’s no point getting mad
now. We meet with another friend from days past, Medina. It’s her birthday – as if we needed another reason to drink and be merry. What happened after this point is now a
Downtown farmers market fun Familiarize yourself with wallet-friendly, locally grown foods Miranda Batterink Silhouette Staff
Say what you will about Jackson Square. The place might be a black hole of public arrests, cheap trinkets and illicit drug deals. But, despite its loitering scene and questionable patrons, it can’t be denied that the mall plays host to one hell of a farmer’s market. Newly renovated (its current location just opened earlier this year), the Hamilton Farmer’s Market isn’t only not sketchy, it’s actually become one of the most expansive produce markets in Ontario. An impressive mecca of fresh meat, eggs, cheese and produce that covers the entire colour spectrum, it has emerged into a glossy-floored, openconcept,window-filled beacon of light in the city-block of dodginess that is Jackson Square. The Farmer’s Market originally started in 1837, making it older than the city of Hamilton itself. In 1980 it moved into its old location in Jackson Square, and has since expanded to include nearly 70 vendors. The merchants are local to Hamilton or from the Niagara
region, which means that when you buy fresh produce, it’s just that – fresh. It hasn’t been shipped in from Morocco or flown in from Fiji. Longing gazes at overpriced grocery store pints of wild blueberries and fresh peaches can be a thing of the past. For anyone fearing the onset of scurvy in their studentbudgeted, KD-based diet, the Farmer’s Market has some of the cheapest fresh produce in Hamilton, with prices often at less than half of what you could expect in a supermarket. Beyond staple items, the market also offers everything from mittens to cactus plants to hot apple cider. For anyone looking for authentic and quality ethnic food, flavours or spices, there are a number of global vendors as well. Imported foods – Columbian coffee, Mexican empanadas, Polish pastries and British baked goods – are abundant. Pick up an item you’ve never heard of or buy some ingredients in preparation of some more adventurous cooking at home. The Farmer’s Market hosts lots of hot food vendors and tables to sit at as well, which makes it a surprisingly good (and cheap!)
lunch or coffee break destination. The best part? You could eat there every market day of the year and never try the same dish twice. Wandering through towering aisles of the grocery store trying to decide between Uncle Ben and Aunt Jemima isn’t necessarily a good time. But shopping at the market is actually fun. For more vendors, nonfood options and live demonstrations head there on a Saturday, or enjoy quieter and more relaxed shopping throughout the week. On any day, throw free samples and prime people-watching into the mix and you’ve got no reason not to take the short bus trip downtown. Skip the Fortinos produce aisle and head to the Farmer’s Market to eat healthily, shop locally, and save money. Win, win, win. Just try not to linger in Jackson Square on your way out. The market is open Tuesdays and Thursdays (7 a.m to 6 p.m.), Fridays (8 a.m. to 6 p.m.) and Saturdays (6 a.m. to 6 p.m.), accessible from York Boulevard or through Jackson Square and the Hamilton City Centre.
SILHOUETTE FILE PHOTO
Jackson Square’s farmers market offers delicious treats and eats for budgets of all sizes.
large, eight-hour blur. It wasn’t that I didn’t remember; I guess you could say that I just didn’t want to. We would end up in a truly run-down neighbourhood and get
locked into an illegal, afterhours bar, with yelling and chaos thrown in between. Tune in, dearest reader, next time, for the second and final part of the Paris chronicles.
THE SILHOUETTE • C5
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2011
SEXandthe STEELCITY
Are you foreplay ready? InsideOut gives you the lowdown on oral sex Cassandra Jeffery
Assistant InsideOut Editor
The brisk fall days of September and October have come to an end and almost too abruptly, and the cold and dreariness of winter looms. Students stock up on hot chocolate and pull out their mittens in anticipation for the snowy season ahead. Class attendance begins to dwindle and hibernation is well under way by the time December rolls around. Sadly, students have little to no option for extracurricular activities, perhaps with the exception of one: sex – specifically, oral sex. The outdoor temperature may read -40 C, but inside, under the sheets, you and your partner can be working up a sweat. Forget the frost and create an intimate oasis, perfect for you and your significant other. However, before getting busy this winter season, take some time to learn the ins and outs of oral sex. We’ve all been given the talk by some sort of authority figure, and by now most of us understand the gist of sexual intercourse. But most often, students lack basic knowledge when it comes to oral sex. Most don’t realize that they can contract a sexually
transmitted infection (STI) through oral sex, largest percentile of STI’s. Jennifer Stever, a while others may feel uncomfortable with RPN-BSCN Level 3 at McMaster University, the topic and thus completely disregard this explains that “chlamydia can cause damage to form of sex as a pleasurable option. These the fallopian tubes and increase the risk of deconcerns, left unaddressed, can result in some veloping PID [pelvic inflammatory disease]. This can lead to infertility in women. serious consequences. Starting with the basics, oral sex is In men, chlamydia can lead to epididymitis, if left un-treated men can the giving or receiving of oral become sterile when the stimulation to the genitalia. An excerpt from the Before engaging in tubes carrying the sperm are Adverting HIV and Aids webany type of sexual occluded by scar tissue.” Human papilsite explains that, “fellatio, intercourse, both lomavirus (HPV) can cause also known as a blow job, is genital warts and lead to the term used to describe oral partners should various types of cancer insex given to a man, cunnilinget tested to make cluding cancer of the cervix, gus is the term which describes sure they’re not vulva, vagina and anus in oral sex given to a woman, and anilingus is oral-anal contact.” carrying any sort women. In men, HPV can Although partaking of unwanted lead to prostate cancer. Other in oral sex instead of vaginal infection.” forms of STI’s include syphintercourse is a guaranteed ilis, gonorrhoea, HIV and way to avoid pregnancy, the hepatitis A, B, and C. Alrisk of contracting an STI is a though not all STI’s are easily transmitted via definite possibility. The most common type of STI trans- oral sex, young adults should make an effort mitted via oral sex is herpes, which can form to understand the risk of contracting an infecas cold sores on the mouth or sores on the tion from sexual activity. STI’s are deceiving in the sense that genitals. Through oral sex, herpes can be a carrier of an infection may not have any visible symptoms. transferred from one type to the other. For example, HPV, for the most part, In Hamilton, chlamydia forms the
is an easily undetected virus; only a small percentage of HPV carriers form visible warts on their genitals. This means that an individual can easily engage in oral sex with multiple partners before the virus is even detected. Before engaging in any type of sexual intercourse, both partners should get tested to make sure they’re not carrying any sort of unwanted infection. The reality is that more and more individuals are contracting STI’s, and while the symptoms may not be visible, it can be difficult to make an assessment just by inspecting genitalia. There are prevention methods to reduce the chance of transmitting an STI to your partner. For women, the dental dam may be a viable option. The dental dam is a thin, stretchy, yet strong sheet of latex or silicone that is placed over the vagina or anus region to prevent full contact of mouth to vagina or mouth to anus. For men, try using a condom during oral; flavoured condoms might make the experience a little tastier. This winter season, talk to your partner. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, be honest, and remember to get tested before making the magic happen.
WANTED Models and writers for the Silhouette’s Sex and the Steel City magazine. Email insideout@thesil.ca Coming to a newsstand near you February 2012!
C6 • THE SILHOUETTE
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2011
FashionWatch
Survival of the prettiest
Online shopping, friend or foe?
Darwinism reaches new heights on dating site BeautifulPeople.com • CONT’D FROM C1 hard body, shapely assests, glowing skin and facial symmetry. BeautifulPeople.com encourages the eye of the beholder to only have sights for people who survive their strict rating system. BeautifulPeople.com has embraced negative attention from the media, saying, “Our critics are fooling themselves. They can’t argue with millions of years of evolution. Everyone naturally wants to be with someone they are attracted to.” Thus, presumably being Darwin’s little helpers, the BeautifulPeople.com community supports the making of an “attractive” gene pool for the future. The site is now offering a fertility forum called “Designer Babies” that hooks up attractive sperm and egg donors to perspec-
tive parents. Greg Hodge explains that one of the strongest prerequisites that recipients want in their donors is attractiveness. But some researchers, such as Arthur Caplan, Director for the Centre for Bioethics at the University of Pennsylvania, suggests that there is a chance features could blend together awkwardly, or that little Johnny could have his uncle’s not-so-beautiful physique. Overall, whether it’s through a dating website or at a bar, we tend to look a bit longer at those who are attractive. But, I challenge you to look deeper instead of longer to aid your navigation through the dating world. Before hitting “Publish Profile,” think about who you are trying to attract and where you are trying to find them.
You are what you write. So come be awesome with InsideOut.
RICARDO PADILLA/ ASSISTANT PHOTO EDITOR
If you or someone you know suffers from online shopaholism, seek help immediately.
Daniella Porano The Silhouette
“Are you online shopping, again?” My roommate gives me a knowing smile as I halfheartedly close the screen window and shut my laptop, acknowledging the fact that I was, yes, online shopping, again. Every time I fire up my computer, online shopping beckons me. It’s amazing to me that virtually every store with literally every item is available, with the quick click of a button. It’s positively effortless. And dangerous. Anywhere that I have access to the Internet is a place I can shop. Everything from groceries to high fashion is currently available online. And what’s not to love? It’s efficient, simple and requires little movement. It seems like a blessing, especially in our cold Canadian winters with limited quality shopping malls that may be a half hour or more away. Plus, it’s easy. Type in your credit card number, address, and your name and in approximately three to five business days you have a package sitting on your porch. Most companies even offer free shipping if the company is in your home country. It’s not just consumers jumping on the online bandwagon either. Companies are ensuring their products are accessible on the Internet to as many people as possible. If they aren’t, they can lose business fast. Let’s say you want a specific pair of boots from a company that doesn’t ship to Canada. Shoppers that don’t have time to cross the border might be able to find new boots from a company that can ship to Canada. Not being accessible online is a huge handicap for companies, especially in
.
the ever-changing and evermore competitive clothing market. So, online shopping is accessible and good for business – win-win situation, right? Not exactly. Problem is, it’s almost too easy – too easy to spend money that you don’t have on things you don’t need. In other words, it’s a university student’s worst nightmare. Buying online at Topshop, one of the most popular British clothing companies (now it’s an international company with franchises in the United States and Canada) is a good example of what to look out for. Topshop proudly declares on its webpage, “Free worldwide delivery on all orders over £75.” Yet for customers outside of the United Kingdom, any returns come with the burden of cost of shipping, as well as the possibility that parcel won’t reach the return center, meaning no refund. For certain countries, the store fails to offer refunds or exchanges at all, regardless of the circumstances. When online shopping, it is essential to know the return policy on the items purchased, and not to use the minimum amount necessary to get free shipping as an incentive to purchase more than desired. It is much too easy to punch in the numbers and excitedly wait for the package to arrive without realizing how much excess you’re spending. Plus, the fun of online shopping is killed if the package arrives and the piece fails to fit, especially when you can’t return it. Obviously, online shopping can be an amusing, easy alternative to physically getting out of the house and going to the mall, but it needs to be done with caution. A surprise thousand-dollar visa bill is a reality check that no one wants to experience.
Volunteer meetings Thursdays @ 1:30 p.m. or email insideout@thesil.ca
THE SILHOUETTE • C7
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2011
Read the tag before droppin’ the dough Jenna Shamoon Silhouette Staff
Anytime most people go shopping for clothes, they usually examine the following : the fit, the colour, the style and the price. Although these factors are important, there is one quality of the clothing that may be overlooked, even though it is plain for us to see: where the product was made. Indonesia, India, China, Vietnam; these are usually the countries that are put after the “Made In” on clothing labels. Although many people may disregard these tags as irrelevant to us, where a product is made is extremely important. The MTV Exit documentary Enslaved is an eye-opener, as it delves into the world of sweatshop labour and human trafficking. After watching this documentary, I began to think more consciously about the labels on my clothing and about the relevance of my personal consumer habits. I asked, Why is it important to look at labels? How can my clothing be a part of this system of sweatshop labour? How does my consumerism contribute to this system? But living a sweatshop-free lifestyle is not easy to do. Like any lifestyle change, it may take a while to adapt. Not all sweatshopfree clothing is cheap, nor is it always easy to find. Out of convenience, people tend to choose clothing stores that they have easier access to, rather than seek out specific places that may be difficult to find. But there are definitely ways to reduce and perhaps put a complete stop to one’s participation in the profit of companies
JOY SANTIAGO / MULTIMEDIA EDITOR
Sometimes buying a T-shirt can greatly affect an individual’s life; remember to make a conscious decision while shopping. who use sweatshops in manufacturing. The first step in living a sweatshopfree life is awareness. Just knowing where your clothing comes from can make a difference. It provokes thought about the origins of the clothes, even for a moment’s time. It can also be a launching pad for living a sweatshop-free lifestyle. It also doesn’t hurt to do some research. There are many organizations that will post information about which companies use sweatshop labour to make their clothing. Research can also show the effects of sweatshop labour on the people who work for these companies in their factories. By facing the facts of sweatshop
labour, it becomes a lot more difficult to ignore, to the point where a person cannot help but face the reality of the impact that “just a tee shirt” can have on a worker’s life. Organizations such as No Sweat promote ethical shopping and manufacture clothing that is sweatshop-free and also affordable. There are also alternative ways to get new clothes, such as trading. The Clothing Swap, a Threadwork initiative that will run again this month at McMaster, is one such example, wherein for every item a person brings in, they are able to swap it for an item of similar value brought in by other people. Also, if you’re handy with a sewing
machine and a pair of scissors, you can either alter your current clothing items or you can buy sewing patterns to make your own clothing. Making just one of these changes in your lifestyle can have an impact on your own consumer habits and can also bring about awareness regarding sweatshop labour. It’s not necessary to follow every single one of these tips, but one small change can make a big difference. So the next time you shop, be conscious of the clothing manufacturer and where the clothing is from. And if you are having trouble with ethical shopping, just remember – don’t “sweat” it!
Word of the week
Trolling Definition Being a prick on the internet by typically unleashing one or more cynical or sarcastic remarks on an innocent by-stander, because it’s the internet and, hey, you can. Used in a sentence “I went to update my blog today and I’m pretty sure someone’s been trolling my website.” “When I should be doing my homework, I often find myself extremely sidetracked on the interenet. I like to spend a lot of my time trolling people on Facebook.”
C8 • THE SILHOUETTE
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2011
Tech Free Thursdays Zone Nov. 3 12 p.m.-2 p.m. MUSC 215 (Clubs Space) Enjoy conversation or study without the distraction of technology!
Get Swabbed! Nov. 8 and 9 MUSC Atrium Get swabbed and find out if you’re an eligible bone barrow donor
Kardinal Offishall @ Mac Nov. 4 8 p.m.-11:30 p.m. TwelvEighty Come jam out to hip hop artist extraordinaire
Dare to d’stress at moksha yoga Nov 6 7 a.m. University plaza Take a breather from studying and exercise those joints
DRUNK FOOD DUKE-IT-OUT: SEMIFINALS The votes are in and readers have had their say: after two weeks of voting, the two heavyweights of late-night snacking are ready for a freefor-all, sudden death knockout round. Here’s who made the cut and who’ll be facing off in this week’s matchup.
HELP YOUR FAVOURITE DRUNK FOOD MAKE IT TO THE NEXT ROUND. SUBMIT YOUR VOTE TO THESIL@THESIL.CA OR TWEET US @THESILHOUETTE! SHAWARMA SANA GRILL
While Pita Pit stays open late each night, the Sana Grill shawarma has a cult following that proved too much for to overcome.
VS.
SHAWARMA
$5 MED. PIZZA
SANA GRILL
GINO’S PIZZA
PITA
BACONATOR
PITA PIT These two late-night heavyweights put in quite a battle, but in the end, the greasy and chewy yet wholesome and hearty appeal of the burrito (not to mention its massive cult appeal) garnered the most votes. To be sure, the shawarma is a late night legend. But Jimmy G’s isn’t just a restaurant - it’s an institution.
WENDY’S
VS.
$5 MED. PIZZA
VS.
Even though the burger packs a punch, there might not be a better bang for your buck than a whole pizza for your leftover change.
$5 MED. PIZZA
GINO’S PIZZA
GINO’S PIZZA
VS.
BURRITO
JIMMY GRINGO’S
VS.
BURRITO
JIMMY GRINGO’S If this weren’t a drunk food debate, Subway may have stood a chance. As it is, Jared’s slim sammies couldn’t keep up with Jimmy G.
12” SUB SUBWAY
VS.
BURRITO
JIMMY GRINGO’S
It would appear the voters went with the sure thing In the battle of the cost-effective late night meals. The McGangBang packs a wicked punch for a measly price, but its name and odd makeup probably threw off too many voters. And hey, who doesn’t like pizza?
MCGANGBANG MCDONALD’S
MCGANGBANG MCDONALD’S
VS.
For the unenlightened, the McGangBang is a whole McChicken sandwich stuffed inside a McDouble cheeseburger. It costs $2.93. ‘Nuff said.
FALAFEL BASILIQUE
THE SILHOUETTE • C9
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2011
BUSINESS
production office extension: 27117 business@thesil.ca
A penny a day keeps the debt away News around the Find cost-cutting alternatives to help secure your savings Sonya Khanna
Australia
Business Editor
Money is a constant source of frustration for the vast majority of postsecondary students. According to a study by the Bank of Montreal, more than two thirds of Canadians are worried about the affordability of post-secondary education. With tuition hikes clobbering away at student funds it’s no wonder why many students struggle to find peace when dealing with finances. Acquiring a degree comes at a hefty cost and students are well aware of the financial aches and pains associated with education. Four-year university degrees in Canada currently cost a upwards of $60,000, and according to the Bank of Montreal, tuition for a child born in 2011 may encounter costs estimated at a whopping $140,000 when they enter university. You may have thought the boogey man was scary as a child, but these figures are horrifying enough to make even the most seemingly horrifying of childhood tormentors curled up in a ball spewing out tears of anguish. According to the study, only 56 per cent of Canadians with young children have a Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP) in place. The remaining 44 per cent cite lack of finances as the primary reason for not setting one up. “The great thing about RESPs is that a little really does go a long way,” said Mark Stewart, Director of Product Development & Management with BMO Investments Inc. “When you take into account the added benefit of the Canada Education Savings Grant, along with compounded interest over time, even small amounts have an opportunity to grow into significant savings.” The same study indicates that a mere 10 per cent of parents whose children received money as a gift have put the money towards an RESP account. Only one-in-four relatives contribute to an RESP plan as opposed to traditional gifts. Mr. Stewart stresses the importance of finding alternate means of funding to contribute towards an RESP. “In order to prepare yourself for the costs ahead, it is essential to plan early for your child’s education,” said Mr. Stewart. “For example, if you contribute $500 per year, from the time your child is born, total savings- including the Canada Education Savings Grant as well as earnings- could exceed $20,000 by the time your child enters a post-secondary institution.” Rather than frivolously spending birthday money from grandparents on the more desirable video game or clothing purchases, put the money towards a long run cause. Current students can implement similar savings habits to add to the pool of funds contributing to post-secondary education. Allocate a portion of cash gifts to tuition funds for the future or textbook money for the semester. Next time you plan on filling up on lunch on campus or splurging on that cup of coffee
world...
The Reserve Bank of Australia has come to a decision to lower its benchmark interest rate by a quarter percentage point Tuesday in an effort to stimulate the nation’s economy given current economic uncertainty surrounding the lingering debt crisis in the Euro zone. Australia’s central bank has lowered the rate to 4.5 percent for the first time since 2009. Growth in Australia’s unemployment rate to 5.2 per cent also heavily impacted the decision. Amid continuing global market uncertainty Asian stocks plummeted Wednesday for a third consecutive day due to a surge of selling in the world markets prompted by the decision by Greece to call a national vote concerning potential tax increases and welfare cuts. Japan’s Nikkei 225 index fell 1.8 per cent to 8,673.78. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng tumbled 0.9 per cent to 19,192.72 and South Korea’s Kospi index fell 0.9 per cent to 1,892.70. The export sector in Japan plummeted amid weak demand for exports.
United States The U.S. private sector added 110,000 jobs in October, surpassing predicted estimates of 101,000 jobs. The ADP National Employment reported a drop in planned layoffs as well as an increase in jobs added in September. The reported indicated a surge in seasonal positions as well as an increase in retail jobs, with 133,940 openings.
Peanut Shortage A hot, dry summer can be blamed for the shortage of peanut crops in the United States. The reduction in supply will bring about a rise in the price of this popular consumer good. Farmers in the United States are predicted to produce approximate 1.8 million tons of peanuts for 2011, down 13 per cent from the previous year. To the dismay of many die-hard peanut lovers, many competitors have already indicated the need to hike prices due to supply shortages. J.M Smucker Co. As well as Unilever have reported they are closely monitoring competitor behaviour to assess the need to adjust prices. Scorching temperatures and the lack of rainfall in peanut-producing states such as Georgia and Texas hindered planting and lowering production.
Angry Birds
When it comes to savings, the earlier you start saving the better. think about the money you could be may amount to the equivalent of a saving by packing a lunch ahead of textbook. time. Although saving money is Although $1.50 seems like easier said than done, students can a small price to pay to get your daily take cost-effective measures to ease dose of caffeine induced energy, in financial worries. the broader scheme of things this Many experts may urge amount, accumulated over a month, individuals to start making regular
Bear:
MasterCard (NYSE: MA) Spending fever ensues: MasterCard Inc. shares rallied nearly 9 per cent to $364.39 in early trading Wednesday conveying a particularly bullish demeanor and exceeding forecasted market estimates. The company reported a 38 per cent surge in third-quarter profit, with the firm expecting to earn $4.81 a share on revenue of $1.71 billion. MasterCard posted a profit of $717 million, or $5.63 a share, up from $518 million, or $3.94 cents a share, a year earlier. Third-quarter gains were reflected by an increase in cardholder spending despite lingering fears that the current economic outlook will hurt consumers. Adjustments to debit-card transaction regulations also attributed to improved performance.
JOY SANTIAGO / MULTIMEDIA EDITOR
contributions early, it is never too late to put funds together. Financial advisors are readily available to help relieve the inevitable headaches of financial planning and allow you to gain a strong understanding of the investment options that best suit you.
Bull:
Molson Coors Brewing Company (NYSE:TAP)
Is post-hangover booze phobia to blame for bleak third-quarter profit figures for Molson Coors? Molson Coors Brewing Co. Reported a 23 per cent decline in profit with net income plummeting to $194.4 million, or $1.06 per share, for the July-September period. Shares fell $1.26, or 3.1 per cent, to $39.07 in pre market trading. Disappointing third-quarter results were attributed to higher costs, the weak global economy as well as poor sales figures in the U.K. The bleak economic outlook has prompted loss in consumer confidence as particularly high levels of unemployment have hit its core consumer base – males.
The hit game Angry Birds has reported a record breaking 500-million downloads in less than two years since its launch. The mobile gaming company Rovio said the next aim of the company is to reach one billion worldwide fans. Since its launch on December 11, 2009, Angry Birds has stayed at the top of the charts. The company plans to take Angry Birds to the big screen.
C10 • THE SILHOUETTE
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20, 2011
MSU
EVENTS CALENDAR
THURSDAY
November 3rd The Sil Radio Show Nov 03, 2011 08:00AM to Apr 26, 2012 06:00PM cfmu.mcmaster.ca Off the Pages (The Silhouette) - Every Thursday at 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm McMaster Silhouette editors and staff delve deeper into the issues from the Sil’s pages - sports, current events (on and off campus), music and more. E-mail: thesil@thesil.ca Podcasts from current and archived shows are available for download from iTunes U.
Tech Free Thursdays Zone Nov 03, 2011 12:00PM to 02:00PM MUSC Clubspace Drop in anytime to try out conversations or study without the distractions of facebook or texting - we'll have free snacks, a creativity table, meditation station, and a creative writing corner in a TECH FREE ZONE! Open to all students willing to "unplug" while in the space, and activities will be based on doing regular things without technology and finding ways to reduce stress.
Humanities Society Willy Wonka Chocolate Formal Nov 03, 2011 05:00PM to Nov 04, 2011 01:00AM Carmen’s Banquet Centre Come
with me and you’ll be in a world of pure imagination!
tion and a FREE DRINK TICKET (19+ to drink). Transportation is included: A bus will pick you up at 5:00pm in front of the Student Centre. The bus returning home will leave Carmen’s at 1:00am. You will be able to inform your server at the event of any food restrictions, allergies or if you’d prefer vegetarian options. Also, you DO NOT need to be in Humanities to attend this event. Everyone is welcome!
already engaging in spiritual practices and looking for the support of a group? We'll explore a variety of practices such as sitting meditation, labyrinth walking, guided meditation, artistic expression, and any other ideas each of us brings to the group. Contact: James at james.lannigan@live.com, Jeff at jdruery@mcmaster.ca www.OpenCircle.mcmaster. ca
Michael Parenti: Imperialism Today and the 99%
TUESDAY
Nov 03, 2011 07:00PM to 09:00PM
Blood Donor Clinic
McMaster University, Information Technology Building (ITB), Room AB102
Nov 08, 2011 10:30AM to 05:00PM CIBC Hall, MUSC
Registration Deadline: Nov 03, 2011 05:00PM
November 9th
November 8th
WEDNESDAY
Kardinal Offishall - Best Of De-Stress Room Concert Nov 04, 2011 08:00PM to Nov 05, 2011 Nov 09, 2011 08:00AM to 06:00PM MUSC rm 213 01:00AM TwelvEighty * *COME OUT TO MSU ADVOCACY'S FIRST EVENT OF THE YEAR!** AS PART November 6th OF STRESS MONTH, Dare to D'Stress at ADVOCACY IS HAVING DE-STRESS ROOMS EVERY Moksha Yoga WEDNESDAY OF Nov 06, 2011 07:00AM to NOVEMBER! COME OUT ON Nov 27, 2011 06:00PM ANY OF THE FOLLOWING Come and 'Dare to D'Stress' DATES: WED NOV 2 - MUSC with us at Moksha Yoga in RM 203 WED NOV 9 - MUSC University Plaza. Moksha RM 213 WED NOV 16 - MUSC Yoga is offering hot yoga RM 206 AND 207 WED NOV karma classes every Sunday 23 - MUSC RM 203 WED in November from 2pm to NOV 30 - MUSC RM 203 3.15pm with a minimum $5 FOR FREE STRESS SWAG, donation. All proceeds go to SNACKS, MASSAGES, the Stephen Lewis MUSIC, YOGA, AND MUCH Foundation Dare to MORE!! Also look out for our Remember campaign. tables in MUSC every Tuesday of Nov for ore information and FREE STRESS SWAG! See you November 7th there!
SUNDAY
Join us on November 3rd for the Humanities formal! A night of dinner, drinks and dancing! Be sure to pick up your tickets now at Compass and also, pick up a Open Circle's sheet to fill out your seating Meditation Circle plan that you can drop off at Nov 07, 2011 12:30PM to the MHS Office (Commons 01:20PM MUSC 230 B104). Are you interested in Tickets are $35.00 which meditation but don't know includes dinner, transporta- where to begin? Are you
MONDAY
These will be held in the basement the Student Centre in MUSC B101 from 9am to 3:30pm. Bring your Health Card and your Student ID. Wear a short-sleeved shirt. For more information visit: wellness.mcmaster.ca
The Milky Way: More than Meets the Eye Nov 09, 2011 07:00PM to 08:00PM BSB Planetarium (basement) Have you ever been curious about the spectacular, "Milky" stream of stars crossing our night sky? Have you ever wondered what our Galaxy looks like from the outside, or what mysteries lie at the centre? Join us, as we explore some of the major historical breakthroughs in our understanding of our host galaxy, such as determining the size of the Galaxy, our location within it, and the role of dark matter. We will also discuss the various components of the Milky Way, learn about the different types of astronomical objects within it, and how the Galaxy appears at different wavelengths within the electromagnetic spectrum. Show times: *7:00 p.m. *8:15 p.m. Please visit our website (www.physics.mcmaster.ca/ planetarium) for more information or to make a reservation.
MSB Presents Got Bhangra Nov 09, 2011 07:00PM to 11:55PM CELEBRATION HALL
Face the Flu. Get the Shot. Nov 09, 2011 09:00AM to 03:30PM MUSC B101 The Student Wellness Centre
will be hosting Flu Clinics on November 9th, 14th & 16th.
www.msumcmaster.ca
C11 • THE SILHOUETTE
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2011
Future of the Euro zone up in the air
WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
PM George Papandreou plans to impose a referendum. Finance ministry spokesman Martin Sonya Khanna Kotthaus indicated no immediate need for the Business Editor payout until mid-December. Greece was due to receive €8-billion Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou surprised G20 leaders and investors Monday in new loans later this month – the sixth with a startling announcement to impose a instalment of the €110-billion bailout package referendum to determine Greece’s continuing negotiated with the EU and the International Monetary Fund last year. use of the common currency. The Friday confidence voteand Worldwide markets plummeted Tuesday following the surprise referendum the referendum call into question continued announcement due to apparent investor support from the EU and the IMF. Cabinet members have harshly caution regarding the G20 summit to strengthen efforts to prevent the debt crisis in criticized Papandreou of endangering euro Greece from negatively impacting the largest membership amid the unpopular decision to call for a referendum after battling to gain economies in Europe. “Europe’s much-heralded grand backing. “The referendum will be a clear strategy appears to be rapidly unraveling,” said French bank Societe Generale economist mandate and a clear message inside and James Nixon. “The announcement that Greece outside Greece on our European course and is to hold a referendum on the latest austerity participation in the euro,” said Papandreou. Although Papandreou believes measures will almost certainly become a vote on Greece’s continued membership in the strongly in his course of action, EU leaders are strongly in favour of the bailout plan, euro.” French President Nicolas Sarkozy citing potential dire consequences if Greek and Germany’s Angela Merkel urged a citizens opt for an alternative plan. According to analysts, threats of the prompt decision from Mr. Papandreou upon meeting in Cannes prior to the G20 summit of referendum on markets as well as the future of the euro zone include potential decline major world economies. The crisis talk came in effort to push of Greek austerity programs, indicating the swift action of Greece by mid-December on possibility of a rise in the budget deficit. The referendum process is set to whether they plan to stay in the euro zone. Greece’s European counterparts are pressing begin with a vote of confidence in the Greek parliament on Friday. for continued membership of the euro zone. Unless European Union leaders “The Greeks must say quickly and without ambiguity whether they choose to prompt Mr. Papandreou to change plans, the keep their place in the euro zone or not,” said referendum will likely go through in the case that the confidence vote goes in favour of French President Nicolas Sarkozy. European partners and the Papandreou. Greek officials have indicated the International Monetary Fund have hinted at the possibility of putting a hold on the referendum will potentially be held midoutstanding €8 billion aid instalment to January, but Greek government spokesman Athens until after the pending referendum; Ilias Mosialos cited the urgency to hold the the financial aid instalment will be the sixth referendum “as soon as possible” following of the €110 billion bailout package negotiated immediate action to sort out the intricacies of the bailout deal. with the EU and the IMF.
C12 • THE SILHOUETTE
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2011
HAMILTON & DISTRICT EXTEND-A-FAMILY VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES “SHAR E A S P E C I A L F R I E N D S H I P ! ”
B U D DY P ROGRAM We have over one hundred children and teens with special needs waiting to spend time with a volunteer buddy. Matched buddies spend eight hours a month pursuing a hobby, playing sports, or enjoying other activities in the community. Gain volunteer experience, have fun, and share a special friendship with a young person with special needs!
RECREATION PROGRAM We offer a minimum of six recreation events each month, providing respite and opportunities for fun and friendship in the community. We bowl, play laser-tag, go rock-climbing, and challenge each other in all sorts of fun ways. We have a great bunch of volunteers who assist at these events and are always happy to welcome more!
INTERESTED? V I S I T O U R W EB-SITE, FIND US ON FACEBOOK OR CONTACT US! w w w. e x tendafamilyhamilton.synthasite .com 905.383.2885 e a f @execulink.com (Buddy Program) e a f . c o n n e ct@gmail.com (Recreation Program)
1:3 Canadian women and 1:6 Canadian men will experience sexual assault in their lifetime.
45% percent of female college and university students say they’ve been sexually assaulted since leaving high school.
The victim and the accused are known to each other in 82% of cases – as friends, acquaintances or family
But… I am not alone! SACHA (Sexual Assault Centre, Hamilton& Area) is there with 24-hour confidential support, information or accompaniment @
905-525-4162
www.sacha.ca
tom waits • paranormal activity 3 braids • take shelter
andex
thursday, november 3, 2011
Senior Editor: Jemma Wolfe Entertainment Editor: Myles Herod Music Editor: Josh Parsons
Contributors: Paul Fowler, Jason Scherer, Marco Filice,
Cover: Victoria McClure
coming up
in the hammer nov.4
Master Blazter The Casbah 8:00 p.m.
nov.12
The Sam Roberts Band Hamilton Place 8:00 p.m.
nov.19
Chantal Kreviazuk Hamilton Place 8:00 p.m.
nov.21
Sara Jones The Casbah 8:00 p.m.
nov.26
The Sheepdogs Copps Coliseum 8:00 p.m.
nov.28
Guns N’ Roses Copps Coliseum 8:00 p.m.
dec.2
music
Chelsea Wolfe The Casbah 8:00 p.m.
theatre nov 11,12, 16-19
photo of the week...
rosie’s apartment escapades, roasted pumpkin seeds, autumn leaves, essays, bieber’s baby baby baby oh!, greyfox wine, radiolab, sooooo tired, tasty pumpkin seeds, slick rick(ricardo), hot beards, lack of sunflowerseeds, andy kickin’ ass tonight, midwestern nightmare, locked out, meeting in ten minutes, wicked moustaches
Framed Robinson Memorial Theatre, CNH 103, McMaster
film opening
now
andy’s ticks
Tower Heist A Harold and Kumar Xmas The Son of No One
A woman is an occasional pleasure but a cigar is always a smoke. musc b110 VICTORIA MCCLURE/THE SILHOUETTE
“something clever” write for andy
meetings are held on tuesdays at 2:30pm in musc b110 e-mail your submissions to andy@thesil.ca
thursday, november 3, 2011
editorial
the silhouette’s art & culture magazine • D3
movember movement mostly motivating Anyone who ever read Roald Dahl’s novella The Twits during elementary school will remember Mr. Twit’s iconic facial hair. Stuck in his moustache were “things that had been there for months and months, like a piece of maggoty green cheese or a mouldy old cornflake or even the slimy tail of a tinned sardine. Because of all this, Mr. Twit never went really hungry. By sticking out his
tongue and curling it sideways to explore the hairy jungle around his mouth, he was always able to find a tasty morsel here and there to nibble on.” To those participating in Movember this month, please refrain from Mr. Twit’s example. Movember, the annual event conceptualized a decade ago by a small group of men in Australia, has snowballed into a global month-long campaign to raise funds and awareness for men’s health issues, specifically prostate cancer. Men collect donations from their friends and families in exchange for them growing out the hair above their upper lip for one whole month. Movember Canada’s website explains, “Mo Bros effectively become walking, talking billboards for the 30 days of November. Through their actions and words, they raise awareness by prompting private and public conversation
around the often ignored issue of men’s health.” With businesses, celebrities and individuals jumping on board, Movember has enjoyed tremendous success. There is some controversy around the integrity of the movement, however. Some people have legitimate concerns over whether or not men join in on sporting moustaches because it’s trendy or because they sincerely care about men’s health awareness. Regardless, it cannot be denied that Movember is amusing, eye-catching and entertaining. Toothbrush. Handlebar. Pencil. Fu Manchu. Whatever style you choose to rock this month, wear it with pride, integrity and manly camaraderie. For ideas, see left and right.
• Jemma Wolfe, Senior ANDY Editor JOY SANTIAGO / MULTIMEDIA EDITOR
the big tickle
is movember an effective way of raising awareness for prostate cancer?
compiled by ricardo padilla & jemma wolfe
“yes because it’s noticeable - people want to know more” cailtin sharawy
“it’s effective because of Tom Selleck” justin korolyk
“it’s a fun and obvious way to raise awareness for a good cause” erika geremia
“if you actually raise money, then yes” karianne matte
“yes; it gives a positive visual representation to an unseen illness” cameron taylor
the silhouette’s art & culture magazine • D4
film mid-western nightmares
thursday, november 3, 2011
michael shannon’s shattering performance is the stuff of oscars
Take Shelter Directed by: Jeff Nichols Starring: Michael Shannon, Jessica Chastain
HHHH There can be something positively terrifying about a performance that makes you tense. What Michael Shannon miraculously achieves in Take Shelter goes beyond that, and into embodiment. With courage, talent and vulnerability, he takes the viewer into the mind of an early-onset schizophrenic, revealing a man torn between apocalyptic premonitions and his relationships with family and friends. The movie opens on Curtis (Shannon), a construction worker with growing concerns about the clouds and greasy rain that persistently loom over his land. Inside his household we enter domestic normality, where his loving wife, Samantha (Jessica
Chastain), attentively upholds family breakfasts and points of discussion. Together they raise their deaf preschooler in what feels like parental conviction and not plot contrivance. Early in Take Shelter, we become familiar with Curtis’ work routine, as well as his loyal co-worker, Dewart (Sean Whigham). Similarly, Samantha’s outside life is explored, as she divides her time between entrepreneurial interests and her daughter’s sign language classes. The film shifts though, and soon Curtis begins suffering from night terrors that consume his consciousness. The dreams retain similar motifs of unruly storms that turn familiar faces into murderous souls. In one instance, a vicious nightmare involving the beloved family dog leaves Curtis with a mysteriously sore arm and distrust towards the canine. When his visions cease to curtail and begin to extend into real life delusions,
the separation between prophecy and lunacy symbolically merge with the construction of a backyard storm shelter. The film is so delicate, so entrenched in Curtis’ intensity that you hold your breath as his social sphere starts breaking away. Events of grave consequence take effect and soon the heart of the film splits into two unsettling realisms: the whispering gossip of his sanity, and the confidence of his own doom’s day suspicions. Michael Shannon inhabits his extraordinary performance with a scary charisma that cannot be described, but observed. He knows he has a problem. He knows he needs help. When the story reveals a family history of mental illness, he seeks counseling. Hopelessly, the sessions amount to no more than empty compassion and textbook rhetoric, leaving Curtis, and us, in a state of despondency. The movie excels through its braveness, which requires our empathy as we in-
terpret the decisions made. Why does Curtis insist on building something so absurd at the risk of losing everything? How the film balances dream logic with the disintegration of relationships, marriage and finances is one of its great strengths. It is precisely the brand of drama that defines Take Shelter, investing heavily in emotional paranoia, as well as post- 9/11 angst and uncertainty. For a picture of such power, it is refreshing to see the restraint that director Jeff Nichols brings to the narrative. Wisely, he avoids religious aspects of Curtis’ apocalypse and keeps it very close to life, making forces of nature vengeful and destructive right until the very end. Many films have addressed the plight of mental health, but few rarely seem to live them out. This one does it with a quiet fearlessness that has you thinking days afterwards. • Myles Herod, Entertainment Editor
thursday, november 3, 2011
film
the silhouette’s art & culture magazine • D5
experience the horror Paranormal Activity 3 Directed by: Henry Joost, Ariel Schulman Starring: Chloe Csengery, Jessica Tyler Brown, Christopher Nicholas Smith
HHHHH
The evil shadow-demon offers some recycled tricks and a few new treats in Paranormal Activity 3. Since there are hardly any horror flicks out, this will most likely constitute one’s choice for thrills at the Cineplex. And I have to say, the film it makes up for the lack of Halloween spirit Hollywood has invested this year. The plot is introduced with a pregnant Kristi, who was a character in the previous film in the series. She is unpacking with her husband, Daniel, who is video recording their getting ready for the baby. Enter her sis-
ter, Katie, with a box of VHS tapes. Remember those things? Hopefully you do, because their grainy quality is used throughout the rest of the movie. A foreboding hint that the tapes are not filled with warm nostalgia is caught in Katie’s face. She gives her sister the box and leaves. The story begins. It reaches back to 1988 and follows another young couple, Dennis and Julie, who have two daughters. They live in an affluentlooking home, which appeard to be inherited from Julie’s creepy grandmother. The rich-family-being-scared-todeath plotline is not such a cliché here; their prosperity, which was investigated in Paranormal Activity 2, is important to the story. It turns out that there are roots to the tale that prove far more sinister than you’d imagine. The story’s plot holds disturbing events, leading to a finale that will make you forget
your own name. I caught Paranormal Activity 3 on opening night, and with the theatre filled with obnoxious under-agers, even their goofiness couldn’t spoil how spooked I was. Now, it takes a lot for me to hold onto the arm rests in nervous anticipation. But, believe me, I did just that. This was especially true during scenes that featured a new technique introduced by the filmmakers. Dennis, Katie and Kristi’s new parent-figure (we’re left cryptically out of the loop as to what happened to their real father), is an amateur videographer. He cleverly manipulates the mechanics of an oscillating fan and places a camera on it. It slowly scans between the main entrance, the living room, the kitchen and back again. The audience views only what the camera sees for brief moments, and you’re ex-
pecting anything. I won’t go into details, but this gadget utilizes something naturally eerie that I haven’t seen in horror movies before. This film is a part of the new generation of reality-based recording. In a time of uploading videos from smartphones to the web so that all can participate in our lives, the movie places you in the subjectivity of the characters. In horror classics, movies allowed us to merely observe the tension. Now we’re involved through the home-video lens – as culprits, even. We not only see, but experience the horror through the characters. In short, Paranormal Activity 3 causes both characters and audience to react in the same way. This is as real as it gets.
• Marco Filice
D6 • the silhouette’s art & culture magazine
music
thursday, november 3, 2011
clap hands honouring tom waits’ infallible career The first time I heard Tom Waits sing I burst out laughing. His harsh voice growling over a web of plunking percussion and groaning trombones made me think of the Cookie Monster, drunkenly stumbling through a bizarre circus. A couple years later a friend of mine lent me a copy of Rain Dogs, one of several Waits releases widely considered essential classics. It took a few listens, but eventually I reached a conclusion that seems to be remarkably common among those who have taken the time to digest Waits’ music – Tom Waits is perhaps the greatest singer/songwriter of the past forty years. What about Bob Dylan? Over the course of his career, Tom Waits has demonstrated something that has eluded even the greats. Waits has delivered consistently brilliant songwriting. His seventeen studio albums each feature more jawdropping lyricism and memorable melody than most musicians are able to conjure in an lifetime. Waits began his illustrious career crooning delicate love songs over jazzy piano and gentle acoustic guitar. In those early days, Waits’ voice was smooth, soft and instantly pleasing. As his career progressed, Tom began exploring more bluesy styles, and his voice took on a grittier quality. Although Tom was clearly beginning to become influenced by a more avant garde approach to songwriting, nothing could have possibly prepared the music world for the seismic shift in style Tom took on his 1983 release, Swordfishtrombones. Tom’s voice sounded as if it had been grated with extra-coarse sandpaper while he gargled a mixture of gravel and
whisky. Instead of singing about love, Tom growled about vagabonds, prostitutes and one-armed dwarves. Gentle acoustic instrumentation was replaced with distorted guitars, moaning horns and clattering percussion. The only remaining vestige of Tom’s early work was his penchant for writing gorgeous ballads. Swordfishtrombones sounded like nothing else in the world, and in the thirty years since its release, Tom has continued to explore his eccentricities. Tom Waits’ seventeenth record, Bad As Me, was released on Oct. 21. Bad As Me is a brilliant record, highlighting many of the unique styles Tom has explored over the course of his career while also showcasing Tom’s continuing desire to experiment both musically and lyrically. “Talking At The Same Time” features surprisingly supple falsetto vocals and the fabulous observation, “everybody knows umbrellas cost more in the rain.” “Pay Me” is a gorgeously sad ballad about an exiled performer who reaches the dreadful realization, “though all roads may not lead you home, all roads lead to the end of the world.” “Hell Broke Luce,” the strongest track on the album, is a bombastic antiwar song which clangs and chugs to the violent holler of “LEFT, RIGHT, LEFT.” Overall, Bad As Me stands up against Waits’ best works, and that is perhaps the strongest praise any album can receive; it’s a truly fantastic album from one of the world’s true musical geniuses. • Paul Fowler
thursday, november 3, 2011
video games
the silhouette’s art & culture magazine • D7
expect the unexpected from blizzard gaming company reveals WoW expansion pack to fan applause
The bright colors, exotic weapons and beautiful landscapes captivated all of us when we first stepped into Azeroth. World of Warcraft is still delivering wonder and awe, expansion pack after expansion pack. Developer and publisher Blizzard Entertainment has always taken turns with respect to the themes in their games, and their latest announcement at their annual convention in Anaheim is sure to have some people scratching their heads. It’s evident that nothing will top the sheer silliness of the newest expansion pack revealed at BlizzCon 2011. The Pandaren, the newest race unveiled by Blizz, are here to kick ass and chew bamboo. I should have learned to expect the unexpected from Blizzard long ago. As we gamers reminisce back to the days of Diablo II, we all remember por-
tals to the secret cow level and the renowned cow king. Surely, I could not expect Blizzard to do anything other than take a black and white animal, stand it on two legs and hand it a weapon. If my prediction is accurate, we should see Zebras yielding spears in the near future. Blizzard makes a great game and they never shy away from eccentric ideas. I first started playing WoW as a Tauren warrior. In true Blizz fashion, the Tauren are a race of bipedal cows. I played as a cow week after week and it soon became my favorite toon. So if the Pandaren seem strange, don’t worry, they will probably grow on you. The Pandaren were a race in World of Warcraft III and rumors circulated the WoW community that they would return in the Burning Crusade. Instead, Blizz introduced
the Draenei of the Alliance and the Blood Elves of the Horde. Wrath of the Lich King was announced on Aug. 3 at Blizzcon ‘07 and released Nov. 13, 2008, when players were introduced to a new class of character, the Death Knight, a class infamous for spreading death and decay in previous editions. Death knights were a formidable ally and fearsome foe. In the following expansion, Cataclysm, we were introduced to the Goblins of the Horde and the Worgen of the Alliance. Although the Worgen won’t huff and puff and blow your house down, they may tear you to shreds, transforming from human to werewolf as the player chooses. The new expansion, Mists of Pandaria, allows gamers to now play as the Pandaren, while also including the monk class. When you put them together, you basically
get Jack Black’s character from Kung-fu Panda. Unlike other Warcraft races, you do not start out by picking a faction. You play the Pandaren until level 10, getting a feel for the character, and then only deciding on what faction you will align with. The idea of the Pandaren expansion is to introduce a more relaxed feel into the game environment, and for that reason, I applaud Blizzard. Surely, we can all use a little break after raiding the Firelands and finishing off Deathwing in patch 4.3. Good luck all, and see you in Azeroth!
• Jay Scherer
D8 • the silhouette’s art & culture magazine
music
thursday, november 3, 2011
sitting on a cloud dream-pop darlings braids overcome strife with a buzz-worthy record
“
there were times when I thought the album was crumbling”
Montreal’s shoegazey pop group Braids has had a busy year. Their 2011 release Native Speaker has been shortlisted for the Polaris Prize, reviewed in the New York Times and subsequently picked up by a slew of monolithic music media outlets. Much of the attention is centered on Braids’ tasteful blend of post-rock experimentation with delicate and washy pop melodies, a sound they have fostered over the course of several years. Dedication and work seem to be paying dividends as Braids has spent much of the last year criss-crossing North America and Europe. The members of the band first met in their high school cafeteria in Calgary. “We were just a bunch of teenagers wanting to make music with each other,” laughed Raphaelle Standell-Preston in an interview with ANDY. She is the band’s primary lyricist and de facto leader. In 2008, Braids decided to relocate from Calgary to Montreal. Within months, they were creating an unavoidable buzz around themselves in Montreal’s competitive independent music scene. “In Montreal, we started a new life. That was really inspiring in itself.” By summer 2009, Braids began laying the foundation for what was to become their breakthrough release, Native Speaker. The recording of the album was drawn out over several months, with equal attention being paid to mixing and mastering of the album. “The fact that we had so much time allowed us to really figure out the recording software,” said Standell-Preston. “We were allowed to go really in-depth with our tones. We really had no time limit.” Since the album’s release, rumors have been circulating that
it had cost the band only $500 to produce. “It might have been a little bit less than that,” Standell-Preston admitted. “I guess with mixing and mastering it was about five hundred dollars. We didn’t have any money ourselves. It had to cost that much.” Although the record has now achieved international success, Standell-Preston was quick to note that the arduous recording process wasn’t without setbacks. “There were times when I thought the album was crumbling. I was scared because I thought maybe we had lost some of the magic that we had playing live together.” But she was also eager to speak of how the record had helped her to develop and refine the lyrical focus of her songs. “Native Speaker was a very literal, kind of point-infact record.” She continued, “At that time, I was discovering who I was and discovering my sexuality. Living life was really inspirational for me. It inspired the lyrics for that album. “I had read a couple reviews of the record and they really ripped the lyrics to shreds,” she lamented. “Since then I’ve been growing more towards explain the beauties of life instead of the hardships. A different kind of attitude, the other stuff was very sassy” With a change in direction in mind, I was interested as to when we could expect some new material. “We definitely want to write a new record. We have been writing a few new songs that will hopefully be on the album. We’re all really enjoying playing them live.” Keep an ear to the ground for new Braids material dropping in 2012. • Josh Parsons, Music Editor