KOI Fest / p.8
The lock out continues / p.3
Laurier hockey preview / p.10
Issue 4 | Wednesday, October 7, 2015 | www.thesputnik.ca
Meet Syd Bolton Brittany Bennett Features Editor Walking up to 13 Alma Street in Brantford Ontario, a typical bungalow seems nothing but ordinary. The garage door is wide open, but it’s not a vehicle that takes up the space. Boxes and boxes of old computers, computer parts, games, modems, just about anything computer or video game related, lay across the floor: donations. Syd Bolton has three important cycles to consider when going through donations. First of all, does it have historical significance? This ordinary bungalow is not the only building housed at 13 Alma Street. Around the left, the driveway wraps the side of the garage and leads to a gated fence. Within, a white pathway cuts through the back yard to reveal an obviously older, bricked building; white painted bricks reclaimed from the Brantford opera house years ago: The Personal Computer Museum. “I knew pretty early on that computers were going to be my thing, and the thing I actually liked about computers,
that I saw in computers that other people didn’t, was that I knew right away that computers would become prevalent everywhere and I knew that they would become a part of everything.” Inside, old computers board the main floor, all fully operable. Long tables stretch across the middle of the room, also double sided with computers. The far right wall reaches to the roof, past the second floor, shelving complete with computer games. One such computers holding historical significance props in front of this never ending computer game wall, the IMSAI 8080. Holding the place of Bolton’s oldest computer, this one was manufactured in 1976. The IMSAI 8080 looks something like an old time recording device you would see in a radio station in the 60s. Large switches run across this rectangular box and flick up and down like a light switch, not the standard picture in your mind when you think: computer. The second phase to consider for donations is whether or not this item can be refurbished and given away to someone who needs it. Bolton
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donates regularly to Nova Vita Women’s Services, giving women who have suffered repercussions of domestic abuse refurbished computers that could assist them in getting back on their feet: offering the ability to search for jobs or alternative places to live. Bolton is very connected in the community, he also keeps an eye out for families that may be in a situation of multiple children vs. one computer. Never a safe battle to face in this day and age. The last option for donations to ponder, is if it can be recycled. The Personal Computer Museum does not have a dollar amount attached to visiting. “We don’t want cost to ever be a barrier for people to come here and learn about history,” explains Bolton. Recycling is one of few ways to keep the lights on in the Personal Computer Museum, and cover insurance costs. “Computers sort of set me on the path of life, you know? I know a lot of people that still don’t know what they’re meant to do in life and when I first got introduced to computers when I was ten years old, that was at a time when not everybody had one, and
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Brantford’s super geek they were not common place as they are today. And so, something about them clicked with me. But along that journey video games have always been a part of that.” Back to the white pathway, out the wooden fence gate, a sharp left brings us in the garage side door. Straight across a set of stairs step down to a room on the right. But wait, don’t look at anything. There’s an organization to Bolton’s madness. Past this room leads to another, which leads to a kitchen, which leads to an arcade room. On the right two little Bichon Frise yap their way down a staircase, shaking their little bums with excitement, their tails whipping along. Coleco, the oldest and Atari, the puppy – both named after game systems of course – search for kisses, head scruffs and sips of Bolton’s coffee. While Bolton’s baby girl, Odyssey – also a Bichon Frise named after a game system – lay upstairs with her mommy, Bolton’s wife Jenny. Space Invaders, Pac Man, and Jungle Hunt are just a few of the operating arcade games in this tiny little game
room, waiting for the exploration of curious gamers. Dragon’s Lair was Bolton’s most favourite arcade game, influencing enough that he published a book “Collecting for Dragon’s Lair & Space Ace” in 2013. Featuring all there is to know about these two games, this 170 page book captures the sleek look of a comic. Past the kitchen we make our way to a game room, displaying floor to ceiling jam-packed shelving of video games. Bolton holds complete collections of: Nintendo 64, Nintendo GameCube, Nintendo Virtual Boy, Sega Dreamcast, Sega Master, Microvision, ZAPiT Game Wave, Sony PlayStation 2 and Xbox. “You know, it may seem like, because I have this computer museum out here as a separate building that it would be computers, but honestly, I’m more passionate about video games,” explains Bolton. Which brings us back to the first room we began with by the stairs to the garage: yet another game room. A patterned couch faces a TV, more and more games line shelving around it. Continued on page 5.
Recycling DOES make a difference...thank you!
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Laurier Homecoming: More than just a party
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It was an amazing weekend for Laurier students on the Waterloo campus. Now that their homecoming has ended, we can talk about how students ought to carry themselves for Laurier Brantford’s upcoming homecoming events. Homecoming is one of the most exciting times for university and college students, and a tradition to be continued. Students should try their best to respect the rules enforced by their universities. Rules are put in place to give parents, students and law enforcements a pleasant experience. It is important for students to understand that homecoming does not only involve us, and that we need to help by being responsible. The police ought not to be concerned about our behavior. As students, we have to be role models. The reasons strict rules are made are because of the issues involving drugs, alcohol and students making poor decisions while under the influence of them. I believe that Waterloo’s
Misusing the soapbox
Studens are allowed to enjoy themsevles, but should also be responsible about their decisions. (Anna Principato/The Sputnik)
homecoming was a good example of this. Parties got out of hand and students behaved irresponsible at times. The first problem began with the drinking at 9 a.m., which did not stop until late that night. My experience this year was at a party for the football players and their close friends. I got to attend before the word got out on the street and prior to all the problems. Once the crowd poured in, things got out of hand. The house was packed from the backyard to the front. The students were rowdy and out of control. There were people peeing over the balcony in the backyard and people getting
sick almost everywhere you looked. It goes to show that the students were not in the right frame of mind, and that they tend to make bad decisions while under the influence. Furthermore, this goes to show how little respect students have for the community, when it comes to the homecoming weekend. If this is not something we want to continue we need to work together to try and be the best we can be. Laurier Brantford’s homecoming is approaching, so let’s keep this all in mind and remember that we are representing our institutions – along with our communities.
In This Issue News Light Up Purple
3 Strategic Academic Plan 4
Features Dillon Giancola EIC
Apparently it’s that time already – reading week is just around the corner. With this being just Laurier’s second fall reading week, it is still a bit weird to take a break when it feels like you just started school last week. But at the same time, if you are anything like me, you are extremely relieved to have next week off. School begins with a fury and it is extremely exciting, but with such a sharp contrast to the lazy, dog days of August, it is only fitting that after a month of packed schedules, deadlines and midterms, our minds need a rest. So make sure you enjoy it. Whether you go home and chill with family, stay in Brantford and read, or go to Cuba, make sure you relax. School will be back before
you know it, and so will our homecoming. This is in a way the perfect transition to Winter – go home, have some pumpkin pie, hide when your parents tell you to rake the leaves, and then back to school, drinking to stay warm and watching Golden Hawk’s hockey. My winter is coming early. I’m going to Russia for reading week, by choice! I checked the weather, it is five degrees Celsius. The Albertan in me is very disappointed in myself for cringing at that temperature, but the Ontarian in me is terrified. There are a couple other important things taking place after reading week, beginning with our federal election. You’ve been no doubt hearing professors, people on Facebook, and us
at The Sputnik suggesting that you vote for weeks now. And the truth is, you might as well. There is no shortage of student issues, and they only get addressed by our government the more that we get to the polls and show them we care. Lastly, this week is Mental Health Awareness Week in October. Continuing with that theme, after reading week we will be having a mental health themed issue. Sure the awareness is being raided this week, and reading week is next, but there is no time too late to share and talk about these important topics. We, students of Laurier Brantford, are all in this together. Take care of yourself and each other, and we’ll see you at homecoming.
Home Away From Home 7 Best Buddies 7
Art & Culture KOI Fest Featured Artist
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Laurier Hockey MLB Playoffs
10 11
David Cameron Uber
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First years really want a bus Chandler Berardi Contributer
First year students continue to fight for a closer Laurier community. Shortly after meeting during O-Week, Ethan Luke and Abigail Topolski created a petition directed at the president of Laurier, Dr. Max Blouw, for a bus that would travel between the Waterloo and Brantford campuses. The students noticed a disconnection between the two campuses and thought the opportunity to experience both would help students feel more connected. “I feel like with the bus it won’t just be Laurier Brantford and Laurier Waterloo, it’ll just be Laurier,” said Topolski. Topolski said that the Brantford campus is often forgotten about.
“When you tell people you go to Laurier, they automatically assume it’s the Waterloo campus, and then when you say Brantford it’s almost like you’re letting them down,” said Topolski. Luke and Topolski said that the petition originated from their discussion of the lack of sports and club opportunities in Brantford compared to Waterloo. Topolski mentioned how the Brantford students miss out on university football games and varsity games. Luke contacted the Waterloo campus to ask about joining their Tennis team but was told that he could start his own on the Brantford campus. Topolski explained that starting a team can be difficult when there is not enough interest, but said between the two campuses there would be something for everyone.
The lockout continues into its third week for workers at Brantford’s OLG Casino. (Anna Principato/The Sputnik)
Lockout continues Taylor Burt Staff Writer The lockout at OLG Casino in downtown Brantford continues to keep people out of jobs. Employees say that they have not had word from OLG lawyers on when they can to go back to work again. A meeting that was held on Sept. 21 included most of the employees and staff of the Casino. The purpose of the meeting was, “to update the membership on the picket protocol and to give information on why we’re at this point now,” said Ken Wight, an employee of OLG Casino. Some employees state that all questions were answered and that they were answered truthfully, while others state that they still feel as though they have no answers to their questions. Many have tried to email, call and get in contact with OLG lawyers, but no responses have been made. “Picket-
ers have been sending emails to corporate, to our general manager here, to anybody that we can get a hold of to let them know that we want to go back to the table,” said Wight. The mayor of Brantford is said to be co-operating with the locked out employees by giving them parking spaces in a business nearby, but is staying neutral in the negotiations. The public has been supportive of the locked out employees by bringing coffee, donuts and cash donations. The amount of customers has decreased and is expected to drop further in the future if this lock out continues. Sources say that there are many husband and wife teams that have been locked, and are now struggling to find second jobs to support their families. Woodbine and Sudbury locations are still locked out as well, and they have heard no responses from OLG.
“There are a lot of kids here who have amazing talent but they just have no way of getting to the main campus,” said Luke. Luke and Topolski also said that the bus would result in a greater attraction for incoming students if their program is offered at either campus. If a bus could run between the two campuses, students could take part in classes that are offered at both locations. Luke and Topolski explained that the bus would also help the students socially. Luke said that people on the Waterloo campus signed the petition because they want to be able to visit their friends, as well as experience classes and different programs. “I want to experience the student atmosphere. I know Waterloo is known for being a student city, and I want to see
what it is like in Brantford, as Laurier is the only school there and the campus on Brantford is quite small,” said third year Laurier Waterloo student Teagan Pecoskie-Schweir. Luke and Topolski started by word of mouth and walking door to door in their residence asking all of their friends and floor mates to sign the petition. Currently, it has reached out not only to students, but also parents. Topolski hopes that because there is support from parents, the petition will be taken more seriously. Luke said that he expected there to be a great deal of attention on the petition for the first day but anticipated it to die down after a few days. There are currently over 330 supporters. “I really hope this leads to a deeper discussion about the
transportation needs of Laurier students. I have not seen the actual petition, so I can’t comment on that, but I do hope it ignites further conversation,” said Laurier Brantford Dean of Students Adam Lawrence. “Theoretically, I think it’s a lovely idea. Practically, I’m not certain it makes sense financially, environmentally or as something that would be prioritized in an increasingly competitive period at Laurier,” said Laurier Waterloo Dean of Students Leanne Holland Brown. The petition can be found at: https://www.change.org/p/ dr-max-blouw-get-a-bus-thatgoes-between-both-laurieruniversity-campuses-daily Luke and Topolski encourage supporters to leave a comment upon signing.
Konnor Huad Staff Writer
Up Purple will go very well and will successfully bring awareness of mental health issues. “Mental health in universities and colleges is huge right now,” Carol Todd said. “You’re put into a big learning environment. You have to do what you need to do on your own. There’s no teacher following you, no mom and dad making sure that you’re studying ... and those are huge stresses.” Light Up Purple is about
this year. Dr. Law changed the date to gain more student participation. She hopes that this way, students can learn more about what is going on. Mental Health Awareness Day is also the same day that Amanda Todd passed away. Although Light Up Purple was not created for Amanda Todd, it allows Carol Todd to do something positive on the otherwise sad day, and use her energy to help others. Since mental illnesses don’t go away in one day, Carol Todd hopes that Light Up Purple, and what it stands for, will be remembered every day of the year. When Light Up Purple started, it had a small group of volunteers. This year, the organization will have more than 25 landmarks and over 30 other buildings lighting up purple across Canada, the United States, and Australia. “Everyone has a story and wants to help in some way.” said Carol Todd. “Everything starts from a little bubble and this bubble is just getting bigger.” Light Up Purple is reaching sport teams, fine arts and police forces. They have 50 per cent of the Canadian Football League talking about mental health and becoming aware of it on social media.
Laurier Brantford set to “Light it Up Purple” On Oct. 7, Laurier Brantford will be taking part in a worldwide campaign called Light Up Purple to spread awareness of mental health issues. On this day, students are encouraged to wear purple to show their support, and to visit the booth being run by the #CAREtalks group. The booth will be in the Davis Fuels Walkway from 9 a.m.to 4 p.m. Light Up Purple is a campaign run by Carol Todd to recognize mental health issues in individuals and bring awareness to them. Eight months after her daughter, Amanda Todd, took her own life, Carol travelled to Ontario and had the idea to light Niagara Falls purple. Light Up Purple began there, and this year marks its third anniversary. The #CAREtalks group is run by Dr. Danielle Law. In lead up to Light Up Purple day, #CAREtalks have been putting up positive sticky notes on campus to brighten up the days of Laurier’s staff and students. “We have a very active team this year, supporting our Light Up Purple campaign,” Dr. Law said. She is optimistic that Light
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Everything starts from a little bubble and this little bubble is just getting bigger. - Carol Todd
individuals supporting each other, and starting discussions of mental health awareness. Mental health issues affect everyone, whether directly or indirectly. Everyone knows someone who has been affected by a mental health issue. Normally, Light Up Purple is on October 10, the same day as World Mental Health Day. However, World Mental Health Day falls on a Saturday
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Ontario’s Sex-Ed curriculum: What are the arguments really about? Christina Manocchio Photo Editor
A new school year brings new friendships, activities, and a new sexual education curriculum. This year, for the first time in 17 years, the Ontario government has released a new sexual education curriculum. The new curriculum has led to some uproar in particular groups, with actions taken in protest. The new curriculum addresses topics that did not exist or were not common during the old curriculum. Some topics in the 2015 curriculum include gender identity, social media, and building healthy relationships. Throughout the province, groups of parents are rallying against the curriculum. Families disagree with the curriculum for a variety of reasons; some religious, others based on personal beliefs. There are actions to go along with the protests, such as families pulling their children out of school, and making the decision to homeschool their children. “Girls’ hearts are not designed for multiple sexual partners,” said Jack Fonesca, the spokesperson for Cam-
paign Life Coalition, one of the organizations opposing the new curriculum. The Campaign Life Coalition considers the Ontario sex-education curriculum too radical for children. One of the multiple reasons why the coalition is against the new curriculum is that they believe that children are learning the body parts too early in life. A new addition to the curriculum is the discussion of gender identity, which is one of the more controversial topics. On the Campaign Life Coalition website it is stated that gender identity is not a social construct, and that the new curriculum, “Will teach the disputed theory of ‘gender identity’ as if it were fact.” Each organization has different views on this matter. Parents Alliance Ontario is a non-religious based organization that opposes the new curriculum. They say that they want to see changes in the curriculum that are less subjective and more accurate. A common reason for the opposition of the new curriculum is the argument that all children develop and mature at different rates. At the same time, this applies to every as-
pect of the curriculum. There is contrast to the rebellion of the new curriculum. Doug Kerr is apart of People for Ontario’s Sex-Ed Curriculum, an organizations in support of the changes. Kerr believes that the lack of support for the curriculum comes from a lack of understanding. There is more to the Ontario Health and Physical Education curriculum than sex. Healthy eating, relationships, and media are just some of the other topics that are addressed. Social media is a new phenomenon that allows constant communication. There are many aspects to social media, and this is taught in the new curriculum. Children are taught that not every one of their peers has just a mother and father. Not all families are the same – some may have two mothers or two fathers, and every family is different. Other provinces throughout Canada have similar sexual education curriculums. Some provinces discuss topics like body parts and gender identity earlier than Ontario does. In British Columba and Alberta, children are learning the proper names for their body parts as early as kindergarten.
King George road.” Chantel DaSilva, a server at Mother’s and fifth year student at Laurier’s Brantford campus, suggests ordering from the Classic menu or one of their famous pizzas. “With the classic menu, you get a super salad and a dessert, so it’s the best deal. You really can’t go wrong here. Nothing is frozen except ice cream.” Miles Smith, second year student at Laurier’s Brantford campus and avid OneCard user, says that his main concern is the machines that are required for the OneCard. Another concern that has arisen is the lack of diversity in the OneCard restaurant listings. Smith said, “for me, part of the Brantford experience is having some sort of family run restaurants, like Lonnie’s, and exploring the food options that are in Brantford. I’d like to see more OneCard involvement with the local
businesses.” Mother’s restaurant is located on King George Road, a 30 minute bus ride when taking the 4C or a 10 minute car ride. “That is pretty far, and I would probably opt for a closer restaurant,” Smith said. However, DaSilva said, “it’s only thirty minutes and it drops you off right in front.” Kimpton would like to grow the partnership between Mother’s and Wilfrid Laurier University. He said “We’re a very community-based, urban company. We want to be out there and have people know about us. We want to do stuff with the university and the businesses around us. If they want to do something fun with us, contact me and we can work something out. ” Mother’s is able to modify menu items for any intolerances or allergies, and also willing to provide vegetarian and/or vegan options.
Mother’s added to student OneCard Melissa Weaver Staff Writer
Mother’s restaurant is back in town, and included on Laurier students’ OneCards as of September 23. The nostalgic-themed restaurant, with red and white checkered tablecloths and silent movies playing in the background, offers an updated menu of classic Italian dishes and desserts. Mother’s re-opened in May of 2015 and was added to the OneCard five months later. Jonathen Kimpton, General Manager of Mother’s restaurant, sought out the partnership with the university. He said, “We want to nurture the future of Brantford ... Everyone is looking for a place to hang out, and now they’re going to get a good, homecooked meal. And we’re right between the university and Walmart, which is where students tend to be heading on
Members of the Faculty of Liberal Arts gather in RCE on Monday evening. (Ben Cooke/The Sputnik)
Divisional Council meeting for the Faculty of Liberal Arts Brittany Bennett Features Editor This past Monday a Divisional Council meeting was held for the Faculty of Liberal Arts in RCE 217 that discussed the draft strategic academic plan for 2015-2020. Referred to as the White Paper, this strategic plan was initiated to confront challenges faced by the major re-design of the Ontario post-secondary education system by the provincial government, and a foreseeable decline in students graduating from Ontario high schools. Developed through several meetings and workshops of the two groups in charge of making academic strategic plans for the university institution: the Vice-President’s Academic Council (VPAC) and the Senate Academic Planning Committee (SAPC), relevant themes have been narrowed down to: academic excellence, immersive learning and diversification. The major goal of the academic excellence themes is to “Identify and support the academic programs which exemplify academic excellence and Laurier’s strengths in immersive, community-engaged learning and pedagogical innovation and leverage these program strengths to build impact as a comprehensive university,” as written in the White Paper. The Bachelor of Business Administration, Bachelor of Music, and Master of Social Work have been identified as programs that have strong strategic significance. The goal of immersive learning is stated to “build an intentional structure of immersive and experiential learning connected to program learning
outcomes which themselves are connected to the ‘communities of interest’ critical to Laurier’s graduates.” The final goal of making Laurier a diversified 21st century university is to “Diversify the student body by educating a larger proportion of students from outside the traditional cohort of Ontario high school graduates,” as stated in the White Paper. A specific focus is put on under-represented groups such as aboriginal learners. The White Paper hopes to strengthen Laurier’s institutional value proposition and place Laurier in more of a competitive position. “The faculty and staff who were [at Monday’s meeting] raised very good questions and concerns about the way the document currently stands that will be taken back to VPAC and the SAPC, and inform the next stages of the Strategic Academic Planning process,” said Heidi Northwood, Dean, Faculty of Liberal Arts, in an email. The White Paper is in the process of circulation of feedback for perspectives of the broader university community. The minutes from Monday’s meeting will be distributed back to the faculty with the top concerns and questions highlighted sometime next week. Check back for more details on this story at thesputnik.ca.
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What’s Your thing? Continued from the front page...
Left: Syd Bolton stands by one of the many walls of video games that make up his collection. Centre: A tower of vintage video game consoles (Jamaal Owusu-Ansah/The Sputnik)
Brittany Bennett Feautres Editor ...“I have heard in the last five years, hundreds of people say that they aspire to be like me. Which is weird. Right? It’s weird,” Bolton says. “I don’t know, I just am a guy that is collecting video games, computers and whatever.” When Bolton first began collecting video games everyone thought he was crazy. Why
would he want that old piece of junk? They would think when replying to Bolton’s classified ads asking for old game systems in his teenage years. $20, easy money they would think when selling their Magnavox Odyssey game system: the very first commercial home video game console. “I never would have thought when I started that I’d have people say ‘well you’re an inspiration for my collection.’ I
never thought I’d be in a movie about video games.” In the past year and a half Bolton is feeling the pressure, the competition is on. Now geeks and nerds are in, they are chic and cool, much different then the weird high school Bolton the girls sent judging glares at. Game collecting has become a new way of reliving your childhood. “Now I’m thinking, well I don’t want to be the guy that
had the lead and lost it,” admits Bolton. Although this anxious competitive side has taken Bolton off-guard, he will still always pop whoever a text if he comes across something he knows they are looking for to add to their collection. It’s a new world out there, a gaming world. And Syd Bolton is prepared to die trying to collect it all, every game, every version, for every system.
Vegas World Lounge Welcomes Back WLU
$6.00 Mini Pitchers Discounted Drinks, Dance Music & Party Bookings Located at 112 Dalhousie Street, Brantford (519) 751-8383
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A home away from home Dellesia Noah Staff Writer
Before she even opens the door I can smell the scent of cooking wafting through the hallways. It tickles my nose and makes my stomach grumble. Set on the table before me is a four course meal and behind me two very shy girls emerging from their respective rooms. Once again food is the thing that brings people together. Kiyo Wang, Rebeta Li and I sit around a very low table almost resembling a Japanese kotatsu (which is a small table with a heating element under it and quilt that goes over the table). You can hear the popping of oil and the rise of steam as Ariel Li – their other roommate – puts the final touches on the meal. I can tell they’re a little a nervous and honestly so am I. There are a lot of firsts happening in this moment. This is my first time interviewing someone for a school publication, likewise, this is most likely their first time being interviewed. To break the awkward silence I ask them what they do for fun. “I like back home [China] there is a lot of activities to have fun. We go out to sing together.” Kiyo tells me. “Oh you mean karaoke?” I ask with excitement. I swap
stories with the two of them of how my friends and I back home would go out into the city of Toronto and sing karaoke or just sing awfully together in the car, or wherever. They laugh along with me, at a common experience shared among all of us. It’s not too long before it’s time to eat. I ask them to tell me what’s laid out before me. There’s a dark brown chicken, soup with shrimp and steamed lettuce, and a reddish mix of sausage and peppers. Ariel sets down the final dish – bacon and mushroom rolls - and hands me a bowl of rice, and we dig in. Not many students here know what the initiative is behind the LEAF Program. The LEAF program is for students who meet Laurier’s academic requirements but not their English proficiency requirements. It gives these students a chance to improve their English skills and make them proficient enough to meet the requirements and move on to an undergraduate program of their choice. Rebeta and Kiyo are two of many international students taking part in the program this year. “We want our English to be more authentic,” says Kiyo. It is their mission to pass their International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
Kiyo Wang (left) and Rebeta Li (right) enjoy a traditional home cooked Chinese meal. (Jamaal Owusu-Ansah/ The Sputnik)
Rebeta wants to pursue financial mathematics and Kiyo, business and economy. I ask them what they plan to do when they get their degree. I automatically feel like the grown up grilling a little child: “What do you want to be when you grow up?” The most feared and hated question of any university student still trying to find their way, and Rebeta and Kiyo are no different. Both tell me that they’re still trying to figure things out, as many of us still are, myself included.
“Does Laurier feel like home yet?” I ask them. I know it didn’t take that long for Laurier to feel like home to me but not every student’s transition into university is so smooth. For Rebeta it’s starting to feel a little more like home, but for Kiyo China is still home in her heart. She gestured to the meal around her, “staying with my family and having dinner together were my nicest moments,” she says. “But the pollution in China was not good.” Rebeta agreed with her statement. “Canadians are more friendly than Chinese,”
she adds. I laughed at that; it was a stereotype that we carried into every country and that we continue to prove true. When it comes time to having their photo taken they giggle with excitement, posing and throwing up peace signs to the camera. It’s starting to rain outside but the atmosphere is really warm in here. After sharing a home cooked meal, we end off the night with a round of karaoke to John Legend’s “All of Me”.
Best Buddies: support, inclusion, acceptance Gabrielle Lantaigne Staff Writer Support, inclusion, friendship and acceptance: all wellfounded values that are of vital importance in any strong community. Thankfully for us here at Laurier Brantford, we have a club on campus that works tirelessly to promote these very values. Best Buddies, an international organization founded in the United States by Anthony Kennedy Shriver, was established in Canada in 1993. According to their official website, their goal is “to make every school and community across Canada more inclusive and accepting of people with intellectual disabilities.” Laurier Brantford Best Buddies, headed by Chapter President Emily Loewen, truly takes that goal to heart, and the results are outstanding. At the beginning of every school year, the group pairs up student volunteers with a member of the community who is living with an intellectual disability. The pairs, called “buddies” then get to know each other by participating in fun activities.
Best Buddy members from left to right: Jasmine Salituro, Emily Loewen, Katarina Kiriakakis and Seanna Forcey, want to break down negative stereotypes of people with intellectual disabilities. (Konnor Huard/ The Sputnik)
Examples include craft making at Crock A Doodle, swimming and bowling, as well as more laid-back outings such as grabbing a coffee or going out for dinner. Communications Executive, Jasmine Salituro described Best Buddies as “a club of acceptance and support,” and Chapter Vice President Seanna Forcey added that it is really about “combining everybody together so that there’s no segregation or exclusion.” As Events Executive, Katerina
Kiriakakis asserted, “it’s all about friendship.” When asked what initially enticed them to join, members of Best Buddies’ executive team cited the tight-knit community atmosphere, the chance to develop leadership skills and the unique learning opportunities with bringing them to the club. Salituro summed it up nicely when she said that she joined to “create environments of inclusion on campus and in the community in Brantford
... and to gain a friendship of a lifetime.” So far, none of them have been disappointed. The team members describe their experiences with the club as deeply emotional and incredibly eye opening, and according to Loewen, that impact isn’t just limited to club members. “I think it opens the eyes [of] the Laurier community as well,” she said, “or even just the Brantford community [in general].” Forcey emphasized the importance of having organizations such as this one within our community: “I think it’s extremely important because as future leaders we need to know how to break down societal stereotypes ... It’s important that we get together as a global community and just understand we may ... have our differences, but we do have similarities as well.” She believes that society should focus on and nurture those similarities, rather than be fixated on what sets us apart. Loewen furthered the argument by explaining how Best Buddies “breaks down barriers and stereotypes that are unfortunately out there ... and it’s important to say, these ste-
reotypes and barriers, they’re incorrect.” The members admitted to having heard these negative stereotypes before joining the group. However, Forcey spoke for everyone involved when she explained that after being paired up with her first buddy, she soon had a moment of realization: “man, I was so wrong; man, were those people so wrong.” Salituro, Forcey, Kiriakakis and Loewen all highly encourage students to get involved with the organization, and attest that being a buddy is absolutely every bit as rewarding for the students as it is for their buddies. Any students interested in joining Best Buddies can contact the executive team at laurierbrantfordbestbuddies@ gmail.com. They can also apply online at bestbuddiescanada.ca. The club can be found on Twitter and Instagram (@ lbbestbuddies) as well as on Facebook (Laurier Brantford Best Buddies).
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Arts & Culture
The Sputnik
Wednesday, October 7, 2015
Matthew Burley | arts@thesputnik.ca |
Bands impress, and are impressed, at KOI Fest
Jake Luhr’s of August Burns Red gives it his all on the closing set. (Konnor Huard/ The Sputnik)
Dillon Giancola Editor In Chief
The 2015 edition of KOI Fest has come and gone, bringing music mayhem to the streets of downtown Kitchener once again. The little-festival-thatcould continues to prove that there is an audience for punk rock and metal bands outside of Toronto and Hamilton. Bands occupied over six stages during the three-day event from Sept. 25 to 27. Friday night saw Toronto’s July Talk headline the alternative/ indie line-up, continuing their string of strong festival performances this year. Sunday featured a new acoustic only line-up. But the highlight of the festival was Saturday. Bands of the punk, metal, and posthardcore genres played from Noon until 11 p.m., the crowds
New Jersey native’s Survay Says please the crowd with their blend of ska Jason Butler, of letlive., was by far the most entertaining and punk rock. (Konnor Huard/ The Sputnik) performer of the day. (Alex Vialette/ The Sputnik)
growing with every hour. August Burns Red was the festival’s main headliner, and they sure played like it. Taking the stage on Saturday at 10:15 p.m., they worked to inspire the largest crowd of the night. Circle pits were in abundance as they played heavy classics like “Composure” and “Provision” to close out the show. The band is touring in support of their sixth album, Found In Far Away Places, and they played a couple tracks off that album live for the first time. Vocalist Jake Luhr’s expressed how important this night was to the band, as it was the first time they played Kitchener, and the first time they played “Martyr” live. The crowd’s response to these songs suggests that their next tour should go just fine. Echoing the sentiment of Luhr’s in appreciating both
Kitchener and KOI Fest was Los Angeles post-hardcore band, Letlive. Frontman Jason Butler was very grateful to the audience for responding so positively to their set, saying that the Canadian crowd seemed to understand their live show better than their own country. And it was certainly something you need to see to understand, as Butler and company are visually chaotic, and captivating, from start to finish. One of the more socially-conscious bands on the bill, Letlive sang songs that touched on topics like public health care, uniting together and police brutality, the latter causing Butler to become emotional as he explained that it was inspired by a night he spent in jail. The festival was intimate and the crowd could feel how impressed all of the bands were with what was happen-
ing. Whether it was the awesome lineup, the uniqueness of Kitchener as a venue, or the active crowd, every band that took the stage Saturday was visibly honoured to have been performing. It was not just the big names that impressed. A trio of bands played a smaller, indoor stage in the afternoon to tightly packed crowds. Dead Broke, Survay Says! and Teenage Bottlerocket each staked claim to the stage in their own way, putting smiles on the faces of the crowd, happy that they chose the to check out the venue. Dead Broke is a fresh name, but their brand of angry, reckless rock and roll was a sight to behold. Whether it was the singer running through the crowd shirtless, or the drummer’s unorthodox rolls to start song after song, Dead Broke ensured that they would not be an un-
known after the show. Survay Says!, an up-and-coming ska band from New Jersey, played a fun, up-beat show, full of The Mighty Ducks references and catchy, pop melodies. Teenage Bottlerocket managed to cram more people into the tiny warehouse space than anyone would think possible, saying to the audience, as if surprised, how much fun they were having. The Menzingers and The Ataris played throwback sets to the eager fans, and Hawthorne Heights dialled it back as well, playing their sophomore album, If Only You Were Lonely. Based off of the fan, and bands, reaction to KOI Fest 2015, you can be sure that the festival will not be disappearing from Kitchener streets anytime soon.
ing given the opportunity to direct their first feature films. In the episode, producer Effie Brown, (who produced films like Dear White People and Rocket Science) criticized Damon and the other male producers for their choices in finalists. Each producer chose a director who was white and male, while Brown picked a male and female directing duo, the
the casting of the show.” Though he has since apologized for his comments, Damon’s comments prove that not only is there a problem with diversity in Hollywood in front of the camera, and behind-the-scenes, but big names within Hollywood don’t necessarily understand that there is a problem. Not everyone understands the importance of diversity,
coming up that have black men as the leads. However, Marvel’s film, Black Panther, won’t debut until 2018. On the television front, Marvel is making more progress. Agents of SHIELD has an incredibly diverse cast, both in terms of gender and race. Their Netflix show Jessica Jones, about a female superhero/private-eye will premiere in November of this year, followed by their other series, Luke Cage, a show following a black superhero fighting crime in New York. As for DC, while there first film with a black male lead, Cyborg, won’t debut until 2020, they will have more diverse leading actors as early as 2017. Wonder Woman (2017) starring Israeli actress Gal Gadot, Aquaman (2018) starring Polynesian actor Jason Momoa, and The Flash (2018) starring Ezra Miller, an openly queer actor. They also have their CBS show, Supergirl, premiering this fall. While these two superhero film juggernauts are incorporating diversity into their franchises, it is an aggravatingly slow process. Having to wait until 2017 for a diverse leading actor is becoming increasingly hard to understand. Executives in Hollywood have stated in the past that they fear films with non-white or male leads may not sell. The box office numbers have proven other-
wise. According to Box Office Mojo, from August 24 up until September 11, the highest grossing films starred black male leads, with the run only being ended by a franchise sequel. This means that movies with diverse leads were the number one films in America for five weeks in a row, making more money than any other films during those weeks. In an even more impressive feat, Straight Outta Compton topped the box office for three of those weeks in a row, proving that these movies could make more money than new releases. There is a mass of evidence that proves diversity in Hollywood is marketable. There’s even more evidence to prove that people want to see more diversity in their media, from articles to posts on social media, ranging anywhere from casual viewers to the actors themselves. As Viola Davis stated in her acceptance speech at the Emmys, “You cannot win an Emmy for roles that are simply not there.” So now that lack of diversity has been acknowledged, it’s about time that we work to see the problem is solved by demanding change, and supporting those who are willing to.
Hollywood is failing diversity Shelby Do Staff Writer
On Sept. 20, 2015, Oscar-nominated actress, Viola Davis, made history as the first African-American woman to ever win the best actress Emmy for her role as Annalise Keating on How to Get Away with Murder. Not only is Davis’ character the lead on the show; the character is a law professor, as well as a defense attorney who studied at Harvard. Her group of student interns is diverse and incredibly competent. In the most recent season, it is revealed that Davis’ character is queer and she has been in at least two interracial relationships. To say Viola Davis’ Emmy win and How to Get Away with Murder are a progressive step for Hollywood is an understatement. Unfortunately, Hollywood is an institution that often takes two steps forward, and yet another massive step backwards. Much like the rest of society, progress is moving forward slowly, with a lot of bumps in the road, and a long journey ahead. Just five days before Davis’ big win, Matt Damon put both his feet in his mouth in the season four premiere episode of Project Greenlight. The documentary series covers the progress of directors be-
The scales are tipped away from diversity when it comes to Hollywood. (Sai Gnanaharan/ The Sputnik)
former of which was a Vietnamese man. Brown’s most specific concern was how the directors would handle the only black character in the film, Harmony, who was a prostitute who was assaulted by her white pimp. In response to Brown’s criticisms, Damon replied, “When you’re talking about diversity, you do it in the casting of the film, not
both on and off camera, but mistakes like this also give people, like Matt Damon, the opportunity to learn, as well as start conversation about the importance of diversity. By no means is lack of diversity a problem only with individuals. In fact, the two biggest names in superhero films, Disney’s Marvel and Warner Brothers’ DC, both have films
Wednesday, October 7, 2015
Arts & Culture
The Sputnik
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Matthew Burley | arts@thesputnik.ca |
The Featured Artist:
Bryan Heyens Anya Eland Staff Writer The Featured Artist is a Laurier Brantford student who is constantly striving for creative and artistic excellence. The medium isn’t what’s important; it’s the art. This week’s featured artist is Bryan Heyens. How long have you been cutting people’s hair and when did you start taking it seriously? I started cutting people’s hair about four and a half years ago. I started taking it pretty seriously about two and a half years ago. I started doing it to save money and then I found a passion for it. I would get one every week and they would get costly. My best friend’s sister is a hairdresser, and would give me $7 haircuts but she moved so I got clippers from home and started learning myself. Since you consider yourself a barber, would you ever be interested in cutting women’s hair? Do you think it would be more difficult? Absolutely, I would like to do women’s hair, but right now I would like to master men’s hair. Women’s hair is a lot harder because it’s more time consuming and layering can be difficult, but there is more money in it such as colour, and styling. What is your favourite thing about cutting people’s hair? What made you interested in this hobby? I feel like I have a good relationship with the person in my chair and we would talk about anything from fashion and music, and they know the conversation would just be between me and them. I’m sort of like a therapist because during haircuts sometimes people vent stress and I can relate to them. I like the social aspect of it that I can talk to someone I’ve never talked to in my life or someone I never saw myself associating with. Do you feel pressure when doing hair designs for people? Yes, I feel pressure because I haven’t been trained fully in the sense of making designs symmetrical but when it comes to doing a haircut for someone I feel very confident because that’s what I’ve been working on and studying. The designs can sometimes be difficult and if I can’t do that, I will be honest with them.
What is the most difficult hairstyle you have had to cut before? There’s not anything too difficult but at first I had a challenge with thick and curly hair but you learn to understand to break down the hair. You can’t go and do it the same way you would with straight hair. There are different techniques to learn to use
school, then someone would ask why that person let me cut their hair. Obviously it hurts when people have doubts, but it made me motivated to do my best and perfect my work. How long does it take you to cut hair? Is the time limit difficult? Hair is not something anyone should rush. I can do it within 20 minutes but I like to take my time, because my ultimate goal is to make this person happy and to feel good about their haircut. What are your strengths when cutting people’s hair? I’m complimented the most on having a sense of style and knowing what’s popular within hairstyles. I know what looks good on people and what type of styles would appeal to them based on head shape, but at the same time I’m open minded, I don’t say no and look how I can innovate the haircut more to their appeal.
Bryan Heyens, with his hair-cutting gear. (Konnor Huard/ The Sputnik)
depending on the hair. Is being a barber purely a hobby, or would you like to make it a career in the future? Right now it is a hobby, since I’m here for school; criminology which is my first priority but I would eventually like to own my own barbershop as a side career. When someone asks you for a challenging hairstyle, how do you feel? I feel honored in the sense that they feel I can do it. Most of the time I have been able to do it. There has been a time where they wanted something a little too difficult that I can’t do, and I would be honest with them and they’d rather that than me have the confidence like I can, then mess it up. Honesty is a big thing to me.
What types of problems do you run into when on the job? Sometimes it can be stressful when people don’t show up or call me and I’m waiting around for a while, but it happens in this type of work. Also some people can be indecisive, but they have always left it up to me to choose the right hairstyle for them and have always loved it. It can be exhausting especially since you’re on your feet for so long, but it’s worth it. Is there anywhere people can check out your work? Instagram at @heyenshaircuts and a YouTube account Heyenshaircuts.
Do you like a challenge or do you feel intimidated about it? I love the challenge especially if they are willing to let me go ahead and try it. Have you ever had a time where your work was criticized? Absolutely, I would cut one of my friend’s hair in high
Heyens loves when clients give him a challenge. (Courtesy of Bryan Heyens)
Cate Great balances her body with one hand at Busker Fest. (Alex Vialette/ The Sputnik)
Hanging out at Busker Fest Mattheyw Burley A&C Editor Harmony Square was overflowing with spectators of all ages applauding for the unusual acts at this year’s Buskerfest. From Sept. 26 through Sept. 28, the strip of Dalhousie Street, between Market and Queen, was packed with families enjoying the buskers’ routines. The fest featured three stages with buskers performing, so there was constantly something to watch. Children had to fight their way up to the front to see. Buskerfest also hosted a stage for bands to perform live music; many who attended sat on lawn chairs and enjoyed the atmosphere throughout the day. Bodean, Free Like Me, Edge of the Bayou, Ruby Revenge and the Dwayne Laforme Boogie Blues Band, provided musical ambience for the weekend. The line up for Buskerfest presented a unique cast of individuals whose talents ranged from supporting the weight of two people with one hand, to whipping spaghetti out of children’s mouths. Each busker had an opportunity to perform on the main stage and mesmerize the crowd. Cate Great wanted to impress the small crowds just as much as the grand ones. Starting one show for a crowd of about 15, the act was able to multiply this number by producing fresh material. Cate Great had the much larger audience applauding after she managed to balance on a piece of wood atop of a small cylinder while juggling three butcher knives. A small group of young girls were particularly impressed with Cate Great and were cheering from the very front of the stage.
One of the performers that drew in large crowds throughout the weekend was Eden Plus; a busker who would perform a variety of different stunts with his whip. Some of these stunts included whipping spaghetti and cigarettes out of people’s mouths, playing harmonica while whipping the ground to the beat, and walking over children on his eight-foot ladder, all the while providing a rapid fire of one liner jokes. Eden Plus’ expectations for Buskerfest were “shattered” when he saw the crowds he would be performing in front of. The Silver Starlets had some of the audience members closing their jaws in awe with their aerial trapeze maneuvers. The duo would use a bar swing the hoist themselves into the air. The Starlets also showed off their strength by being able to balance on the bar swing while wrapping themselves around each other. The pair was able to showcase many different positions and techniques. Feets of Fire turned the temperature up a bit with their act. After the duo showcased some hand-to-hand poses, they started to juggle flaming torches. For those who wanted to keep it mellow, there were many vendors including a face painting tent, bouncy castles and a clown who made balloon animals (people lined up across the entire street for one of his creations). One piece of information that the buskers always shared after performing was the importance of supporting the talent. The buskers only make as much as they are given and their livelihoods depend on the generosity of their audience.
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The Sputnik
Sports
Wednesday, October 7, 2015
Devon Momy-Gamache | sports@thesputnik.ca |
Laurier comes up short in homecoming game
Laurier students came out in full support to cheer their team on homecoming weekend. (Jessa Braun/ The Sputnik)
Jessa Braun Staff Writer The Wilfrid Laurier varsity men’s football team played the University of Windsor for Laurier’s Homecoming weekend on Saturday. The Homecoming game is consistently the most attended football game by Laurier students and alumni every year. The stands were flooded with fans dressed head to foot in purple and gold to cheer on the Golden Hawks. The school spirit and support was there and the score was close all game, but the
Windsor Lancers ended up with the 22-18 win in the end. Starting things off with a 2-0 lead two minutes into the first quarter, the Golden Hawks kept ahead in the score a number of times throughout the game. They generated lots of runs and were led by Laurier’s star running back, Dillon Campbell. Campbell finished with a season high 118 rushing yards. Unfortunately, the plays that Laurier made and points that they scored weren’t enough to cover up the amount of penalties that they received, which resulted in Windsor having
a chance to pull ahead each time. “The penalties have just been killing us all game,” Campbell said afterwards. The fifth year kinesiology major was the offensive MVP of the game and plays a key role on the team. Despite the penalties received by the Hawks, Campbell helped them keep up with his strong offensive contributions right from the beginning of the first quarter. Helping initiate Campbell’s runs was quarterback Eric Morelli. He agreed with Campbell about its challenges.
“It really just came down to penalties,” Morelli said, “and not being able to finish when we got down to the end zone.” But despite the penalties, he had a positive outlook on the game. “I think we moved the ball well and we put together some long drives,” he reflected. “We were able to make some plays both in the run game and the pass game.” Both teams took turns leading in the first quarter, but the points stopped when Terrance Crawford scored a touchdown for Windsor. Windsor led 10-7 after the first quarter. Laurier caught up in the second quarter with a safety and a field goal. Windsor would respond, squeezing in three points on a field goal to end the half with a score of 13-12 in their favour. The Hawks locked it down in the third quarter. Rookies Quinn Johnson and Nathan Mesher carried the team to take the lead with two field goals. Mesher finished the game 4-for-4 on his field goal attempts and won OUA Athlete of the Week. Laurier kept the lead for
most of the fourth quarter, but gave up a penalty in the final six minutes of the game near their end zone. As a result, Windsor scored a touchdown and kept the lead until the final whistle. “We can’t dwell on this,” Eric Morelli said. “We’ve got another game this week with Waterloo and we can’t let this cloud hurt us going forward. We took this team obviously too lightly today, and we paid the price for it, so we can’t do that anymore.” The Golden Hawks improved in time for their next game against Waterloo winning 420. Laurier’s win in the Battle of Waterloo helped the team bounce back and improve to 2-3. Campbell was the star for Laurier again, finishing with 241 yards on 31 carries. Laurier still has a chance to reach the playoffs and will face UOttawa at home on Friday, October 9.
Laurier’s hockey season about to start Devon Momy-Gamache
Sports Editor
The weather has cooled down and the hockey season is just around the corner for Laurier. The women’s hockey team finished sixth last season, making the playoffs. After sweeping Queen’s in two games, Laurier lost two straight and were eliminated by the Western Mustangs, who would eventually win the CIS championships. Laurier finished in the top two the last three seasons, which included a regular season title in 2012. Laurier has made the CIS finals in both 2012 and 2014; another successful season could be upcoming. Laurier led the OUA in goals last season. Their defence was just as strong, allowing the fifth fewest goals in. Strong special team units were also a part of last season’s success. Laurier had the second best power play (18.1 per cent) and the fourth ranked penalty kill (88.8 per cent). The offence will have to rely more heavily on last season’s leading scorer, Jessie Hurell. Hurell scored 11 goals along with 13 assists, and finished fifth in total points last season in the OUA. The next three Golden Hawks in points all graduated, so some play-
ers will need to improve on their play. The defence will have seniors Blair Connelly and Haley Baxter providing leadership as co-captains. Although Nicholle Kovach and Amanda Smith split time in net last season, Kovach earned the starting job for the playoffs. Incoming freshman Lauren Webber was a highly regarded recruit in net. Webber may be able to challenge Kovach in her freshman season. Laurier opens their season Friday, October 9. Another playoff appearance should be expected and a trip to CIS championships is a strong possibility for another talented Golden Hawks team. In a tight race last season, Laurier’s men’s team missed the playoffs by one point. It was their second consecutive season of missing the playoffs. Head Coach Greg Puhalski expects “a great deal of improvement.” Laurier may continue to struggle offensively after finishing 16th last season. Laurier lost their top two scorers from last season, and will be looking for improvement from the entire team to replace the lost production. Puhalski specifically pointed to junior Derek Schoenmakers, saying he, “needs to have a rebound year for our team offensively.”
After a strong first season, Schoenmaker failed to live up to expectations last season and is now expected. Puhalski wants Schoenmaker “to assume some leadership for our team” this season. In goal, Laurier improved after Vinny Merante took the starting job. Merante started eight of the last nine games. Merante had the top GAA, 3.08, of any Golden Hawk. Puhalski expects big things
from Merante, “another player who we look to have a breakout season.” A full season of Merante may help Laurier reach the playoffs again. Former GOJHL MVP Marc Williams may prove to be a quality backup. With a young roster, Laurier has lots of room for improvement. After missing the playoffs by only one point, Laurier might be able to find their way back to the playoffs
if some players improve to replace the lost veterans. Laurier will be hoping to start the season strong on October 10th against York University.
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The Sputnik
Sports
Wednesday, October 7, 2015
Devon Momy-Gamache | sports@thesputnik.ca |
MLB Playoff preview Adam Stocker Staff Writer
As the seasons change from summer to fall, the search for baseball’s Mr. October begins. Players seek immortality through their play in baseball’s fall classic, the World Series. On October 18, 1977, Reggie Jackson stepped to the plate at Yankees Stadium in the bottom of the fourth inning. Jackson hit home runs in games four and five. The Yankees were looking to win the series in front of 56,000 screaming fans in game six. After walking on four consecutive pitches in the first inning, Jackson came to the plate with a runner on. Los Angeles Dodgers starter Burt Hooton threw the first pitch to Jackson, who smashed the pitch over the outfield fence to give the Yankees their first lead of the game. Jackson came up for his third at bat in the fifth inning with a runner on again. Jackson would see just one pitch, as he sent it into the bleachers. By the time Jackson came to the plate again in the eighth inning, chants of “Reggie, Reggie, Reggie” could be heard audibly from the Bronx faithful throughout the stadium. Knuckleballer Charlie Hough readied and threw the first pitch to Jackson. With a loud crack of the bat, the ball rocketed off the bat of Jackson and landed 475 feet from the
plate. The Yankees would go on to win the World Series behind the MVP performance of Jackson, whose legend was created and lead to the nickname “Mr. October.”.
The 2015 Major League Baseball playoffs are about to begin. Fans are searching for one player to lay claim to the title of Mr. October and carry their team to postseason glory in the same manor Jackson did in 1977. Following 162 games, there is no denying that each team is talented, but each team also carries a potentially fatal flaw. The question will be which team will protect their flaws and expose those of the other team. American League In the American League, it’s a three team race. The Toronto Blue Jays and Kansas Royals clinched the division and avoid the one game wild card playoff, while the third team in the race, the Yankees, must first win the one-game elimination playoff before moving on. In the National League, it is a wide open race among the five teams, with no clear favourite. The Blue Jays have relied on a heavy hitting offense that features three potential Mr. October candidates in sluggers Jose Bautista, Edwin Encarnacion and AL MVP candi-
After another grueling 162 game season, 10 teams will be picturing themselves holding the Commissioner’s trophy at the end of the playoffs. ( Sai Gnanaharan / The Sputnik)
date Josh Donaldson. If the Jays are to make a deep run this year, it will be based off the strength of their offense that scored over 800 runs, which lead the league by over 100 runs. The fatal flaw will be the starting pitchers not named David Price. A former CY Young winner, Price is the one known quantity in the Jays’ rotation. The Blue Jays’ will be depending on three of Mark Buehrle, Marcus Stroman, R.A. Dickey and Marco Estrada. Buehrle’s shoulder has been a question mark for his late season starts, he has had starts pushed back and struggled to log innings. Meanwhile, Stroman has made only a handful of starts following March ACL surgeries. Dickey is in his early 40s, and prone to giving up big innings and home runs. Estrada has the lowest upside of the three and relies on generating weak contact to get outs. If the pitching staff can win two games each series on days that Price does not pitch, the Jays are poised for a deep run. The Royals have led the AL Central from start to finish, but have faded near the end of the season. The biggest strength of the Royals was their bullpen that was able to turn games into six inning affairs by shutting down opponents from the seventh inning onward. However, an injury to closer Greg Holland turns the Royals’ biggest strength into a question mark, as depth will now be an issue as everyone is pushed up an inning. The offense scored over 700 runs, despite getting below average offensive contributions from catcher, second base, shortstop and right field. With a shaky starting rotation lead by Edinson Volquez, pitching will ultimately prove to be the fatal flaw for the Royals. If the Royals are to make a deep run, it will be on the shoulders of homegrown talent such as Alex Gordon, Eric Hosmer, Mike Moustakas and Lorenzo Cain, all of whom have on-base plus slugging percentages over 800. The Yankees must overcome a one-game playoff before advancing, but there is a strong possibility that the Yankees will make a deep run into October. The Yankees’ Mr. October could prove to be a player they wanted nothing to do with for the past two years, Alex Rodriguez. A-Rod has turned from hated cheater to cheered antihero for his ability to hit the ball out of the park. The Yankees offer perhaps the most balanced team, a dependable, but not spectacular pitching staff and a similarly described
Predictions: Wild Card Winners: Yankees and Cubs ALDS Winners: Yankees and Blue Jays NLDS Winners: Dodgers and Cubs ALCS Winner: Yankees MVP: Alex Rodriguez NLCS Winner: Cubs MVP: Jake Arrieta World Series: Yankees MVP: Masahiro Tanaka offense. The biggest flaw the Yankees have is their age and the injuries that may result from starting an everyday lineup with only one regular starter younger than 31. National League In the National League wildcard game, the Chicago Cubs travel to Pittsburgh for a one-game showdown. The Chicago Cubs have succeeded based on the strength of their pitching staff lead by CY Young candidate Jake Arrieta. The Cubs’ flaw is their inexperience and dependence on young talent. If the bright lights and national spotlight get to the rookie tandem of Kris Bryant and Kyle Schwarber, the title drought will continue in the windy city. If the 107 year Curse of the Billy Goat is to be broken it will be behind one of Bryant or Schwarber’s Mr. October performance. The Pirates are built in a similar pitching first model to the Cubs. The Pirates’ rotation starts with former top pick Gerrit Cole, but the back end of the rotation of A.J. Burnett and Francisco Liriano must overcome past postseason failures. The Pirates candidate for Mr. October is former MVP Andrew McCutchen. The Pirates offense will go as far as McCutchen carries it. While the Cubs offer young talented bats, the New York Mets offer young talented starting pitching which will determine their post-season fate. If Matt Harvey, Noah Syndergaard and Jacob deGrom pitch well, the Mets post-season stay could be prolonged. The problem for the Mets is
their offense. It was a tale of two halves for the Mets, who struggled in the first half, before coming alive in the second half to overtake the Washington Nationals for the NL East title. Cuban defector Yoenis Cespedes was a revelation when he was traded to the Mets at the trade deadline. If the power surge Cespedes provided in the second half continues, the Mets Mr. October candidate will be the reason why. The Dodgers are built around perennial CY Young candidates and past winners Zack Greinke and Clayton Kershaw. However, for all of his regular season success, Kershaw has struggled in past playoff appearances. If the Dodgers are to advance, they need Kershaw to play the role of Mr. October. The Dodgers highly paid lineup only surpassed the 600 run total this season, but if Kershaw and Greinke dominate like they can, offense will be less of an issue. If there is a favourite in the National League, it is the St. Louis Cardinals, who from the lowest levels in the minor leagues to the majors are baseballs best run team. Built around a strong pitching staff, the Cardinals had the best record in the majors from start to finish. The Cardinals’ flaw is their offense, which only averaged four runs a game. The offense and pitching staffs could both take a hit if catcher Yadier Molina’s late season injury prevents him from playing. If Molina is healthy, he could be the Cardinals’ Mr. October.
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The Sputnik
Opinion
Wednesday, October 7, 2015
Josh Adesina | opinion@thesputnik.ca |
PM David Cameron did what? Arnisa Morina Staff Writer
Allegations of British Prime Minister, David Cameron engaged in a sexual initiation ritual involving a dead pig, as a student at Oxford University, have caught the world’s attention. Conservative Lord Ashcroft claimed that an Oxford friend had a photograph of Cameron engaging in an obscene act with a dead pig at a Piers Gaveston ceremony. These allegations have left me both speechless and
in disgust. The measures that people take out of selfinterest and revenge are ridiculous. I believe Ashcroft’s claims are completely ill-founded. I do not believe them because they were published as soon as he was denied a seat on the Cabinet. Even after donating $8 billion to the Conservative party. Ashcroft’s claims were likely made out of bitterness, and the obvious result was the end of Ashcroft’s friendship with Cameron. The allegations were clearly made in retaliation to not
getting what he wanted. I guess billionaires don’t take rejection well. I think Ashcroft was trying to hinder Cameron’s success just because he had not been as successful. He has not even seen the photograph of Cameron committing the act, and has admitted that the allegations might be a ‘case of mistaken identity.’ If Ashcroft does not believe in the certainty of his own allegations, why should anyone else? Ashcroft has made more of a mockery of himself than he has of David
Cameron. I do not expect many people to agree with me. Even if the allegations were true, I don’t think it’s the public’s business to judge a politician based on the choices they made as a young student. The claims don’t make Cameron any less fit to be Prime Minister. Furthermore, if they are true, they show that people can make mistakes, and change for the better. Every politician has a private life before entering politics, and I think that it should be respected.
based out of San Francisco, operates in over 300 cities across the world. Major arguments concerning Uber operations gravitate around safety and fairness. The latter being a question of why cab drivers are expected to pay license permits, while Uber drivers can hop in their car and start picking up fares. Along with violent demonstrations, videos of cabbies harassing Uber drivers have circulated around the internet. While Mayor John Tory presses
on for Uber regulations, his patience runs thin as company headquarters have yet to reveal driver insurance policies. As well, the question of safety continues to be a major source of skepticism for potential users. Back in June, the alleged assault of a female Uber rider fueled the ongoing debate. In this case, Uber co-operated fully with the police and surprisingly enough, even with license plate, driver, and vehicle information (available to all users prior
to pick-up) the case remains unsolved. So far, it seems the only by-laws taken to regulate the ride-share company involve mandatory GPS, CCTV systems and minimum two million dollar commercial insurance policy on the vehicle. Even with these sanctions, is Uber still a fair alternative to taxis? Having spoken to representatives on both sides of the cause, I find there is potential for co-operation to exist between both entities.
The excitement around Uber Ricky Pacheco Staff Writer
As an avid goer of clubs and a connoisseur of cheap beer, I’m often found hard-pressed to catch a comfortable ride home. I can call a taxi or Uber, but I can only call one. The decision may be clear with me but municipal mandates for cities across Canada are still struggling to find a fair resolution to accommodate both companies. Uber, a ride-share company
David Cameron was allegedly involved in a sexual act with a pig. (Sai Gnanahuran/The Sputnik.)
Cabbies, advocating for equal compliance to licensing procedures, and Uber drivers, facing the threat of harassment and police citations, can live in harmony provided the establishment of a middle ground. Personally, I feel if something was going to happen to me, even with all their information on file, that person would probably do it under any other circumstance.
Brantford: 321 King George Road Across from Wal-Mart London: former Future Shop on Wellington Guelph: in Stone Road Mall Waterloo: former Target in Conestoga Mall Kitchener: former Future Shop in Sunrise Plaza