The Sputnik: Issue 11

WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 3, 2016 ISSUE 11 WWW.THESPUTNIK.CA @SPUTNIK_NEWS THE SPUTNIK

LAURIER BRANTFORD & REFUGEE SUPPORT 3

MEET THE CANDIDATES

STUDENT ELECTIONS BEGIN 5

TATTOOED

A LOOK AT STUDENT INK 6

POUTINE DREAM

Where to get the best poutine in town

Page 8 Alex Vialette/The Sputnik

Laurier Students can ride Brantford Transit just by showing their ONECARD CSBOUGPSE DB USBOTJU t

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THE SPUTNIK

WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 3, 2016

WLUSP BRANTFORD 202-171 Colborne St. Brantford, ON N3T 2C9 (519) 756-8228 ext. 5948

THE SPUTNIK TEAM

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF eic@thesputnik.ca PHOTO EDITOR Christina Manocchio photography@thesputnik.ca LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER Jamaal Owusu-Ansah leadphotographer@thesputnik.ca GRAPHIC EDITOR Sai Gnanaharan visual@thesputnik.ca WEB EDITOR Jaclyn Brown web@thesputnik.ca NEWS EDITOR Anya Eland news@thesputnik.ca ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR Now Hiring FEATURES EDITOR Brittany Bennett features@thesputnik.ca ARTS & CULTURE EDITOR Matthew Burley arts@thesputnik.ca SPORTS EDITOR Devon Momy-Gamache sports@thesputnik.ca OPINION EDITOR

Don’t wait to show love Embrace the change

Josh Adesina opinion@thesputnik.ca

THE SPUTNIK ADMIN

PRESIDENT/PUBLISHER Bryan Stephens (519) 884-0710 ext. 3565 president@wlusp.com ADVERTISING Care Schummer (519) 884-0719 ext. 3560 care.schummer@wlusp.com MANAGER OF OPERATIONS Taylor Berzins manager@thesputnik.ca EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Lakyn Barton lakyn.barton@wlusp.com Treasurer John Pehar Vice-Chair Abdiasis Issa Director Thomas Lillo Director Rafey Sattar Director Fred Kuntz Director Angela Foster Director Gary Doyle Corporate Secretary Emily Crump The Sputnik is a bi-weekly campus newspaper intended to engage and inform the community.

Started in 1999, the Sputnik is an editorially independent newspaper published by Wilfrid Laurier University Student Publications, Waterloo, a corporation without share capital. WLUSP is governed by its board of directors.

Opinions expressed within the Sputnik are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the editorial board, The Sputnik, WLUSP, WLU or Canweb Printing.

All content appearing in the Sputnik bears the copyright expressly of their creator(s) and may not be used without written consent.

The Sputnik is created using Macintosh computers running Mac OS X Yosemite using Adobe Creative Cloud.

Canon cameras are used for principal photography. The Sputnik’s primary font isFreightDisp Pro Text, an open source font created by Adobe Typekit Fonts. We also use Mueso Slab.

The Sputnik is a member of the Ontario Press Council, which is an independent ethical organization established to deal with editorial concerns. For additional information or to file a complaint, contact info@ontpress.com or call 416-340-1981.

The Sputnik circulates bi-weekly. Normal circulation is 1,000.

The Sputnik has an obligation to foster freedom of the press and freedom of speech. This obligation is best fulfilled when debate and dissent are encouraged, both in the internal workings of the paper, and through the Sputnik’s contact with the community. The Sputnik will always attempt to do what is right, with fear of neither repercussions, nor retaliation. The purpose of community press is to act as an agent of social awareness, and so shall conduct the affairs of our newspaper.

We’re looking for creative volunteers • Artists • Photographers • Writers • Copy editors • Graphic designers

email manager@thesputnik.ca for details.

Graffiti Christina Manocchio/The Sputnik

Taylor Berzins Manager of Operations As February begins, days of spring, sunshine, picnics, riverside adventures and outdoor music festivals become less of a desperateto-forget-winter fantasy and more of a fast approaching reality.

As I rejoice at the fact that the sunset is creeping closer to 5pm, and that the snow has become less of an inevitability and more of a balancing act between dumping down on us and melting away, I want to also allow myself to imagine this period of forthcoming shift as a parallel to a season of change in downtown Brantford.

Laurier Brantford students should bask in the opportunities that lay at their fingertips, and the bold choices we have the power to make.

For instance, today and tomorrow, alongside the typical Students’ Union election fare, students at Laurier Brantford will have the possibility to vote regarding a membership referendum proposed by Laurier Student Public Interest Research Group (LSPIRG). LSPIRG wants to come to Brantford, and it’s up to the student body to determine whether or not we want to pay to have it here.

“LSPIRG is an incorporated not-for-profit social justice organization that operates on an anti-oppressive framework. We act autonomously from the university to uniquely serve both students and community members,” explained Mohammad Akbar, LSPIRG’s administrative and development director. LSPIRG has the potential to provide Laurier Brantford students with support towards campaigns, research and social justice initiatives. In Waterloo, LSPIRG hosts events like Radical O-Week (alternative O-Week

programming that includes stuff like yoga and documentary screenings) and campaigns like “I Am Not a Costume” and “Consent: Just Ask”.

“Our fee is refundable,” Akbar explained, “so if someone does feel like they aren’t receiving enough support from LSPIRG, or can’t afford the fee, they can get a refund of their fee (at the Waterloo campus about 3-4 students opt out a year).”

In the coming days, try to acknowledge the potential in your power to vote. Heck, by next issue we could have a Tyler from Brantford as president-elect of the Students’ Union and LSPIRG rolling into campus. You really have the power to mix things up and exact a bit of change.

If the prospects of LSPIRG maybe coming to Brantford is not enough to convince you that we’re embarking on a season of change perhaps it’s time to engage with the fact that there are plenty of people pushing for a shift in the downtown core.

The nights are alive with music and art at venues like Two Doors, the Station, Healthy Rabbit, The Crawford Collective and Starving Artist. Our Activist-in-Residence is presenting a collection of inspiring workshops.

Laurier-hosted community art project “We will help each other to be great and good” is launching in the coming days. Brant Rant is presenting their second annual anti-Valentine’s Day slam on Friday. Laurier Brantford is now home to a Women’s Centre and Diversity and Equity Office.

Even we here at The Sputnik promise you a little bit of change.

We’re playing with fonts, design, content and themes. Please expect the unexpected!

As the blahs of January dissipate, it’s time to acknowledge the vibes of February. Bask in the glory of the leap year, explore something new, engage in making active choices and enjoy this wonderful time to be alive in downtown Brantford.

Josh Adesina Opinion Editor That special time of the year is almost here. The time where the sparks fly and couples have an excuse to do something special for each other. The day that we plan something special for our significant other. It’s only a matter of time until we get bombarded by a bunch of adverts across the internet and television sets. You and I know how annoying those ads that come up before your YouTube video can be. Honestly, you don’t need to wait for a special day of the year to celebrate your partner.

I personally believe that Valentine’s Day is a day that businesses use to make big profits. You know what I mean. Think about how people ignore the real meaning of Christmas, and focus on the materialism of the holiday. Yeah. Valentine’s Day is the exact same idea.

A lot of money is spent on Valen-

tine’s Day. Gifts, dates and probably a few short holidays out of the country. I’m not saying that people who aren’t religious shouldn’t celebrate Christmas but they should respect the sentimentality behind the holiday. We shouldn’t use a holiday as an excuse to be a good person, we should just be good year round. The same with our spouses and partners. There is no need to wait for a special day of the year to appreciate our loved ones.

You can do what you do on Valentine’s Day during any day of the week. Whether you are a married couple or two lovers, Valentine’s Day shouldn’t be an excuse for you to give your partner a little more attention.

It’s 2016. We really need to stop following tradition and strive to think for ourselves. If you want to celebrate Valentine’s day with your partner, then you should. Enjoy the day and run through some snow together. You should just understand that to have a special person in your life is a gift. A gift that not everyone gets to unwrap and enjoy. Everyday should be Valentine’s Day for you and your special someone.

WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 3, 2016

THE SPUTNIK

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NEWS

ANYA ELAND | NEWS@THESPUTNIK.CA | @SPUTNIK_NEWS

With some help, Laurier University is here to support Syrian refugee families

Taylor Burt Staff Writer World University Service of Canada (WUSC), Laurier International and the YMCA are helping Syrian refugee families and students come to Canada.

There are three families coming to Laurier from Syria. Two will reside in Waterloo and the other in Brantford. One family has already arrived, and is now living in Kitchener. The arrival of the family coming to Brantford has not yet been announced and the staff at the WUSC will be given 24 hours notice to their arrival.

“WUSC does international development. They’re supporting education, they’re supporting health care, they’re supporting maternity care, all kinds of development projects,” said Mike Boylan, Coordinator of Global Engagement Programming at Laurier International.

Laurier has teamed up with Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) to sponsor the families. It costs approximately $27,000 to sponsor a family of four, and with the help from CIC and donations from Laurier staff, students and alumni, Laurier is able to make it happen.

Not only is Laurier supporting

the Syrian Refugees, but they have also supported students through the Student Refugee Program (SRP) for years.

“Before they’d arrive we’d work with residence services to identify a room, we’d get donations, we purchase things to stock their room, with bedding, clothes hangers, and kitchen stuff, and all the stuff they’ll need when they arrive,” said Boylan.

Students coming to Canada are placed where they will be most comfortable. “The student expresses what their interests are, so if they’re interested in studying history, criminology, human rights …, that’s one of the things that WUSC has to do is match the students up with schools that offer programs that suit their interests,” said Boylan.

The SRP committee has been supporting students in Brantford since 2011 and since the mid-90s in Waterloo.

Students coming through the SRP program are still expected to achieve goals academically.

“They have to be successful academically, for sure, it’s an academic program. One of the concerns is specifically they have to have language proficiency. Their first language is generally not English or French, so they have to be able to operate in one of those languages.

Here at Laurier Brantford we have the LEAF program, which is the Laurier English and Academic Foundation,” said Boylan.

Laurier International looks for

Laurier students for help to make these students feel at home. “They go to the airport and pick them up with signs that say ‘Welcome to Canada’. Imagine yourself moving halfway around the world, what kind of things would you need to get set up?” asked Boylan.

Both Beth Gurney, Associate Director of Communications and Public Affairs for Laurier Brantford, and Boylan urge students to volunteer their time to help these students make their transition into Laurier. Students rely on other students to introduce them to friends, find classes and settle in.

The YMCA will also play a huge role in the lives of the refugee families coming to the community. They plan movie and craft days for youth, support the Mosque in any way possible to help make these families feel at home, and have 10 Arabic-speaking staff members to make their transitions in Canada easier.

“The YMCA of Hamilton/Burlington/Brantford currently plays a vital role in welcoming and settling refugees from many countries arriving in the Brantford and Grand Erie,” said Lily Lumsden, Senior Regional Manager, YMCA employment, Education and Immigrant Services.

Lumsden states that the YMCA helps all refugees from children to parents to grandparents.

“In general they will be provided with support funds, some start-up funds for housing, and also receive their permanent resident papers,

Karley Doucette, Henry Tabak, Teeba Alsafar, Robert Feagan, Aaron Doucette, Jim DiLeo, Melissa DiLeo and in front, Janice Vilaca. Laurier Staff, faculty and families who helped Beth Gurney help the families.

Courtesy of Beth Gurney

their SIN and OHIP or Interim Federal Health Supports so they can deal with health issues immediately and a SIN so they can look for work immediately,” said Lumsden.

Laurier International, WUSC and the YMCA encourage volunteers to

continue supporting families and students to come to Canada. Laurier is very enthusiastic to meet the new family that will be coming to Brantford soon.

advocating. He has set up concerts and fireworks outside of jails.

Using a landline-cellphone number, Hussan was able to record detained men’s voices and created a YouTube video featuring their voices telling their stories; many of them confused and all without charges.

In another protest, he and a friend created a DIY version of light brigade with two large pieces of plywood, duct tape and battery operated Christmas lights and created the phrase “end detention” to take to various protests and events.

In Alberta, a quote from a child of a detained Muslim man was projected onto the outside of a building. “We are wives, partners whose children look at their fathers shoes and ask us ‘when will they return?’”

Hundreds of shoes were left at ministry offices in Alberta.

Hussan educated attendees about using media press releases and debates to activists’ advantages by showing up and creating some sort of disruption during these events to gather attention for a cause.

During the Munk debate in October 2015, No One is Illegal wrote 40,000 names of refugees who attempted to cross borders in the U.S.A and Europe but died in the process, on three-foot sheets of paper in front of the entrance to the

debate. This forced attendees to walk over the names of dead people.

Tigchelaar has planned at least three more creative activism workshops for the term.

In March, Tigchelaar and Rainbow Alliance will be putting on a workshop about the allegiance between sex work and the LGBTQ+ community.

March 8th, Jane Doe will speak about her experiences in suing the police department for facilitating her rape and about winning the court case.

In April, two survivors from the Huronia Regional Centre sued the Ontario government. They will speak about being institutionalized and how their intellectual disability helps them to use different ways of communicating activism.

Later in April there will be a conference held showcasing research done by Dr. Hanaam with rural sex workers and proper outreach. Ideas and myths about sex work will be debunked.

“Students working on papers about these issues are able to have access to these activists and be able to speak with them, talk to someone who has survived this,” Tigchelaar said.

Activism without capital

Hussan, organizer of No One is Illegal Konnor Huard/ The Sputnik

Melissa Weaver Staff Writer Four students, staff and faculty took part in a Laurier’s first creative activism workshop last Thursday.

Laurier Brantford’s activist in

residence, Alex Tigchelaar, organized Thursday’s workshop featuring Hussan, organizer of No One is Illegal who was detained during the G20 Summit, speaking about his venture in activism.

“This is an important topic especially now, with the Syrian refugee crisis. Fear incites islamophobia and racial profiling,” said Tigchelaar.

Hussan spoke about the experiences of incarcerated persons; specifically Indigenous peoples and Muslim men in Canadian jails and prisons without charges. He also

referenced the detention of 80,000 immigrants, without charges, during Stephen Harper’s time as prime minister.

The workshop was centered on “how to do activism work in capitalist structures without capital,” as described by Tigchelaar. Hussan provided examples in his own activism practice for attendees to consider.

Hussan’s activism focuses on appealing to other senses by incorporating visual and audio as lowbudget but highly effective ways of

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THE SPUTNIK

WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 3, 2016

NEWS

ANYA ELAND | NEWS@THESPUTNIK.CA | @SPUTNIK_NEWS

Laurier Brantford’s first charity gala is a huge success

WLUSP

Election 2016/2017 Taylor Berzins Manager of Operations

Shreya Shah Staff Writer On Jan. 29, the center of Market Square was decorated with snowflakes and lights, awaiting the arrival of 200 students for Laurier’s first ever charity Gala.

The Winter Wonderland Gala was hosted by the Human and Social Science Association (HSSA) and the faculty of Liberal Arts Student Societies (FLASS). The charity gala aimed to raise money for the Hospital for Sick Children.

Jananni Puvanendran, the president of HSSA, organized this event alongside Allison Skinner, the president of FLASS. Puvanendran explained how the idea for the Winter Gala was conceived; “I lived in residence during my first year, which is when we had the Residence Banquet. But that was the only formal event we’ve ever had, anytime I saw my friends after that event was in class or when we studied. We needed to have the Winter Gala to give everyone an opportunity to meet up again. Especially fourth year students like me - a lot of graduates move away, go to different countries, or get married, and you’ll never see them again.”

The event was open for both Laurier and non-Laurier students, and was attended by board members of almost every student association.

The sold out event was a huge success. Some of the highlights of the night included music provided by DJ Cashmere, performances by the dance group KAOS, a chance for people to get their pictures taken against a winter wonderland backdrop, and of course, the cash bar.

The decorations for the event were donated by Brian Kennedy, who runs a production company specializing in seasonal décor. Kennedy started his business because of a high school formal event, and he saw this gala as a chance to pay it forward and help out a great charity, “helping out for this event was coming full circle”.

Savannah Dale and her group of friends were a few of the many students who heard about this event through the Facebook page, “this formal was just a fun chance to get dressed up and do something with all of your friends.”

Laurier students looked stunning in their formal attire, and enjoyed a night of food, dance, and even an intense game of musical chairs.

But perhaps the greatest hit of the night was the chance for Laurier students to write anonymous messages of encouragement and kindness for the children of SickKids.

On Feb. 10, the Wilfrid Laurier University student body will head to the polls to elect new leadership representation for the 2016/2017 term at Wilfrid Laurier Student Publications (WLUSP).

WLUSP runs campus publications like The Sputnik, Blueprint Magazine, Radio Laurier and The Carnegie. All students at Laurier pay into a Student Publications Fee, and this election will allow students the opportunity to elect leaders that will represent campus needs surrounding student media.

Matthew Burley Board of Directors

I am excited to announce that I will be running for the WLUSP Board of Directors. If I get elected to the Board of Directors I promise to work hard and do my best to exceed the expectations of my team.

I would spend my time focusing of distribution of the budget, creating new ideas and maintaining old traditions at WLUSP. I see myself being a valuable member of the team due to my ability to think outside of the box and to work well in a group.

All of the candidates for President and Board of Directors are acclaimed. This means that the responsibility falls onto the shoulders of the student body to determine whether or not they agree that these candidates are right for the job. This will be determined by a “yes” or “no” ballot.

The Annual General Forum and election will begin on Feb. 10 at 7pm, in RCW 202 on the Brantford campus. Students will have the opportunity to ask candidates questions, learn more about student media on campus and enjoy catering by the Paris Bakery.

Maddy Cutts Board of Directors

Having served two years as a reporter for The Cord, I have already been fortunate enough to experience the opportunities which WLUSP has to offer. The people I’ve had the privilege of meeting through this organisation have shaped my time at Laurier in ways I never could have anticipated. If granted the honour of serving on the Board of Directors, I promise to work to afford those same opportunities and relationships to others within the organisation. Part of WLUSP’s vision is to provide meaningful opportunities to students, and this can only be achieved by ensuring that as an organisation we are performing at our absolute best. I believe that my enthusiasm for, and dedication to, this organisation ensure that I am in an opportune position to help WLUSP thrive.

Meghan Roach President & Publisher

It is essential that the president and publisher of Wilfrid Laurier University Student Publications is an individual who understands for all of our publications to thrive as they currently do, all members must collectively work together.

It should be understood that under this umbrella, we are capable of achieving greater accomplishments than we are now. I would like to continue to facilitate a work environment in both Waterloo and Brantford where our volunteers feel comfortable and are able to exhibit their creativity to produce the highest quality of publications.

I envision a unified organization to produce consistent content including policies, production processes, and radio.

During my four years at WLUSP I have been a street team member, a DJ, a street team coordinator, the promotions and branding director,

and an advertising assistant. These positions have allowed me to see how a team should effectively collaborate in order to reach their end goal.

This past year I have worked as the Radio Laurier Station Manager, which has developed and strengthened my skills in volunteer management as well as given me experience in creating, amending, and presenting a budget. Working with administration as part of the advertising team as well as a department head has taught me how crucial financial responsibility within this organization is.

These experiences have shown me how this organization operates as a whole and it will be my responsibility to continue to grow from relationships that I have previously made throughout student publications and will continue to make.

Mynt Marsellus Board of Directors

Abdiasis Issa Board of Directors

In my four years at Laurier, I don’t think I’ve been challenged more than in my time with WLUSP. My bosses push me to always do better, think broader, work harder. And while I know there is always more to do and learn, what the people at WLUSP instilled in me was a sense of purpose. The desire to do better, the confidence to know you can, and the drive to get it done. That’s the key to the volunteer experience at WLUSP, and it’s why I want to continue my work on the Board of Directors. To help contribute to the atmosphere that makes this organization such a success.

It is with a great honour that I announce my re-election the Wilfrid Laurier University Student Publications Board of Directors. This year has been my second term on the board, and it has been nothing short of phenomenal. Each and every day I am reminded why WLUSP is not only special but important to the Laurier and Kitchener/Waterloo Community. Our publications have continued to produce yet another year of award winning content and has provided endless possibilities to volunteers and members of WLUSP. Going forward I will work to ensure that WLUSP continues to foster a strong volunteer culture, continue to provide the right and adequate resources for our publications to grow and prosper. Furthermore, having served as Vice Chair for two terms I believe that I have the right experience, a firm understanding of our organization and its strategic vision.

THE SPUTNIK

WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 3, 2016

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NEWS

ANYA ELAND | NEWS@THESPUTNIK.CA | @SPUTNIK_NEWS

PRESIDENT & CEO On Feb. 3 and 4 Laurier students will vote for their 2016/2017 Students’ Union representatives.

A polling booth will run for Brantford students in the RCW lobby throughout the two election days.

Please visit www.thesputnik. ca to see full Board of Directors platforms (beyond the 60 words we have published below), and the Board of Governors platforms.

All platforms are published as is, without editing for grammar or structure.

Candidate photos courtesy of The Cord.

The Students’ Union is an organization that exists to provide the tools needed for its students to succeed. Throughout my time at Laurier, it has managed to provide the tools I need in any endeavour. As your President of the Students’ Union, I want to make these tools easier to access for any student at Laurier.

I will focus on strengthening relationships with internal and external campus partners, so that students may feel confident as to the fact that they are being represented well.

I will continue to increase the transparency of the Students’ Union and the Presidential role, by consistently communicating what work is being done as well as engaging with students to better represent them and their interests.

I’ve spent my time at Laurier connecting with students, and showing them what tools are available. Please check out my platform at tylermurdockforpresident.ca and remember to vote!

Tyler Van Herzele

Tyler Murdock

My platform is comprised of 4 pillars and 2 initiatives, which delve into multiple aspects of student life on campus.

My pillars are Campus Safety, Mental Health, Connectivity and Awareness and Looking Forward. My Initiatives focus on Faculty Representation and enhanced communication through a segment called Prezent Questions.

I strive to create strong relationships with the student body to best represent the student voice. This platform was built off conversations with over 50 people whom I have met with personally. These pillars are the result of those conversations.

A platform cannot be explained in 150 words, so check out TyingItTogether.ca to get the full breakdown of each of the pillars and initiatives.

I believe that we are only as strong as we are together and this year I want to create the strongest student experience possible, but I can’t do it without you.

This year, Let’s Ty it Together.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Stephanie Bellotto

I’m a third year Political Science Student seeking election to the Board of Directors.

As a director, I will monitor the President through Executive Limitations and policy governance, develop the long-term strategic direction of the organization, and engage in critical discussion. I want to ensure greater communication with the student body and I will do this by participating in Board related events...

Nick DeSumma

My name is Nick DeSumma and I am a Concurrent Education and Human Rights student seeking re-election on the Students’ Union Board of Directors. Over the past year, I have had the privilege to serve as Vice Chair of the Board. It is the knowledge, experience, and leadership I have gained that led me to seek re-election for a third term...

Hubert Lee

I have been a Residence Life Don, a Students’ Union Volunteer, a club member under Lazaridis Student Society, and currently the Coordinator for the First Year Project.

By running for Board of Directors, I will use my diverse experiences to ensure that the Union continues to be forward looking and grow as an organization...

Jamie Bradshaw

Hello, my name is Jamie Bradshaw and I am a second year BBA student here at the Lazaridis School of Business. I am running to be on the Students’ Union Board of Directors. Laurier has given me so much, and I feel like this is a great opportunity to give back to the Laurier community. Last year I swam on the varsity swim team here at Laurier...

Jake Driver

I wish to work with the existing nature of the previous Directors, which is to further the inclusive and progressive nature of our campuses here at Laurier, while at the same time staying true to our foundation as a University. I believe that promoting an environment that allows for flourishing personal and academic growth aids all who share in the experience...

Mynt Marsellus

In my four years at Laurier, I’ve seen a huge cross section of the life and opportunities available to us all. From House Council in first year to donning in second, working at both the SI centre and The Cord, and volunteering through Foot Patrol and campus clubs I’ve been incredibly fortunate in the diversity of my experience here...

Thanisa Chandran

My name is Thanisa Chandran. I’m in second year Law and Society. My interest in policy research encouraged me to run for board of directors. It’s come to my attention that not a lot of students are informed on what the board of directors does. The board of directors is the governing body of the Students Union that holds the president accountable...

Faraz Ifekharuddin

At Laurier I have worked with The Cord, foot patrol and the Indian students association; yet, I do not base my platform on experience. Experience alone does not always guarantee passion and right intention.

With your help I hope to ensure the pursuit for the best interest of the Laurier community in both Brantford and Waterloo...

Genelle Martin

My name is Genelle Martin and my platform circles around 2 topics, mental health and first year engagement. The frustrating reality at Laurier is that many first year students are totally uninterested or unaware of the Students’ Union, and how it works. I’ve seen it first hand being a part of Residence Life. By getting students involved earlier, we will likely increase the turnout in elections...

Harry Choi

As a fellow Golden Hawk, I have fallen in love with Wilfrid Laurier University and its culture. Feeling so welcomed by its environment, my goal is to tie Laurier together with its student body by running for the Board of Directors.

My name is Harry Choi and I am a second year Business Administration student. With my relevant skills and experiences, I wish to help implement several improvements...

Kevin Jang

My platform made of three central pillars that I will strive to maintain if elected to the Board of Directors. My first pillar is Accountability. The Students’ Union and its members should make sure that their student body is represented fairly and resources of the Students’ Union are used to benefit the students of Laurier. My second pillar is Transparency...

Nick Molkoski

I am a BBA student seeking election to the Board of Directors. As a Director, I will hold the President accountable to their executive limitations and prioritize the ends when making decisions.

As former Student Trustee for the Ontario Student Trustees’ Association (OSTA), I have experience at the board table representing 36,000 students in Niagara...

Matt DeSumma

My name is Matt DeSumma and I’m a Law & Society and Human Rights student seeking re-election on the Students’ Union Board of Directors.

Coming into this position, I ensured that I would use my role as a Director to create a stronger presence of the Board in school functions and medias, as well as mend the communication gap between campuses...

Shannon Kelly

My name is Shannon Kelly and I am a second year BBA student. This past year I have worked as the Board Secretary for the Students’ Union, and through this I have developed a passion for the organization.

Using the knowledge I have gained over the year, I believe I possess the necessary skills to become an effective Director...

Tarique Plummer

“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’ The name is Plummer, Tarique Plummer and I am one of your candidates for the Senate and Board of Directors.

My strong dedication to the Laurier community has fuelled my desire to contribute in an even greater way. I strongly believe that you should elect me because of three core reasons...

Ryan Price

Jonathan Ricci

Eumin Song

Dana Toameh

Anthony Zambito

My name is Ryan Price and I am proud to be a student of Wilfrid Laurier University and a part of their BBA program. I am currently the Vice President of Finance on the Lazaridis Student Society. This has given me a great amount of experience on what it is like to represent the students, listen to what they want...

My name is Jonathan Ricci and I will be seeking my third term on the board for the Laurier Students’ Union. During my time on the board, I have served on multiple committees and been very vocal at the board table. If re-elected, I will bring my previous experience back to the board table by pursuing the position of Chair of the Board and...

I am currently a second year Psychology Student seeking election to the Student Union’s Board of Directors. At Laurier, I have volunteered both as an Orientation Week Icebreaker and an executive on First Year Project. If elected, I will use my experience to help contribute to strategic and generative discussion, and provide a critical viewpoint at the Board table...

My name is Dana Toameh and I am running for the Board of Directors of Wilfrid Laurier University. I am a Health Science student who has been incredibly involved since I was in my first year. A few things I did include, ERT, Winter Carnival, Eye to Eye, FOSSA, and I volunteer in the community...

For years now, students have taken on seemingly endless loads of stress. They need to worry about getting good grades, having a social life, staying in shape, and, lest we forget, having enough money to pay for it all. My goal is to advocate on behalf of these overwhelmed students in a democratic fashion...

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THE SPUTNIK

WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 3, 2016

FEATURES

BRITTANY BENNETT | FEATURES@THESPUTNIK.CA | @SPUTNIK_NEWS

The student body as a canvas Kassi Mead 4th year, Criminology

“

Dellesia Noah Staff Writer One reason people have been engaging in tattoos for centuries is because they are seen as a work of art.

The human body becomes a canvas and portrays artwork through stories and meanings, reaching out to inspire many, such as the students here at Laurier Brantford.

Kassi Mead Konnor Huard/The Sputnik

“

Mia Vamos-Yuhasz 4th year, Journalism

For a very long time I thought I couldn’t get a tattoo because I didn’t have anything meaningful I wanted to put into a tattoo. I just wanted to get something pretty and I thought that was silly but the longer I thought about it I decided, ‘no that’s not silly, it’s a piece of artwork on my body that I can appreciate.’ Like everybody else would do, I had a Pinterest folder of all my favourite tattoo ideas, which I would constantly look at and add to and at the same time I was looking for an artist I liked. While I was looking I found an artist named Lemur and he worked at a parlour called Seven Eight in Toronto and his work is just gorgeous.”

I was mostly cataloguing positive experiences with my previous tattoos but I got to this point in my life and something negative happened to me. I felt completely lost and didn’t know how to continue my journey. The words surrounding the tree say ‘your eyes must do some rainin’ if you’re ever going to grow.’ The tree on my back is an ash tree, symbolically the Norse people thought it to be a tree of wisdom.

The tree also has no leaves on it and that is when a tree is in its most vulnerable state. This tattoo was me coming out of the negative. The quote is from a Bright Eyes song called ‘Bowl of Oranges.’“

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Regan Hehn 1st year, Psychology

Regan Hehn Jamaal Owusu-Ansah/ The Sputnik Quinn Dougan Christina Manocchio/The Sputnik

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Quinn Dougan 1st year, Social Work

Mia Vamos-Yuhasz Christina Manocchio/The Sputnik

Growing up I was always bigger than the other kids. In grade four and five I used to get picked on a lot and during that time I used to listen to a lot of music to escape. I listened to a lot of Kid Cudi and his album, Man on the Moon which was a story about his own battle with depression and feeling alone, which was how I felt. That’s where I got that rocket inspiration from. It represents me inside of that rocket ship blasting off. There was also an anti-bullying video that came out – at the time I was 16 or 17 – one of the things that stuck out to me was the phrase ‘They will always be wrong.’”

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Miles Smith 2nd year, Journalism

The tattoo is sort of like a puzzle, I got it for my seventeenth birthday. My mom has the second half of the tattoo on her thigh. My girlfriend got a mother-daughter tattoo and I thought that was pretty cute. So I got one with my mom but I wanted it to be different because I didn’t like the really girly motherdaughter tattoos. Ours is from the Harry Potter series. Hers says ‘I solemnly swear I’m up to no good’ and mine says ‘mischief managed.’”

This is my family crest, I got it for my dad who passed away a couple years ago. It has elements from our heritage: it has the Hungarian crown in it, it has the colours of the Irish flag, it has the family motto which is ‘Tenebras expellit et hostes.’ It’s ancient Gaelic and it translates into ‘we drive forth the darkness and the foe.’ I had to find pieces of the crest, I had to do my fair share of research which lasted four to five months before I went out and got it. I designed it myself along with the supplementary historical pieces. The tattoo let me connect with my dad and my family heritage.”

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MJ Harkema 1st year, Social Work

The writing is in Hebrew and it means ‘shalom.’ It means peace and balance … which is important to me because I’ve struggled with anxiety. The arrow means going forth and all it signifies you must be pulled back before you fly forwards. Together it means that there needs to be a certain balance before the arrow can fly. My family is Christian so my tattoo has that connection between Christianity and Judaism.”

Miles Smith Konnor Huard/The Sputnik MJ Harkema Konnor Huard/The Sputnik

WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 3, 2016

THE SPUTNIK

7

FEATURES

BRITTANY BENNETT | FEATURES@THESPUTNIK.CA | @SPUTNIK_NEWS

HI N G What’s Your T IS UNDER CONSTRUCTION Know someone with a unique interest, hobbie or career? Email features@thespuntik.ca

Students Speak up about the Students’ Union Julian Panchaud Staff Writer Student elections come around every year, but not a whole lot of people are actually able to answer: What do the student elections really mean? Why do we even have these elections to begin with? Students around campus took the time to think about what they believe the elections, and the Students’ Union as a whole are meant to represent.

Andrew Gauvreau, a third year Youth and Child Studies student said that the existence of a students’ union “means we have a choice about who represents us,” and that it gives students on campus a reason to actively learn more about what is happening in our school, even between the Brantford and Waterloo campuses.

Gauvreau thinks it is important

that the student body has a voice that leads. “Having a voice allows us to express issues that affect us personally, making it so things change to allow us to have the best experience we can have and improve our education.”

According to Nick LaNave, a fourth year Psychology student, the Students’ Union is ideally meant to protect the rights of students, and the elections are important to ensure this continues from the true voice of the students; the ones being represented. “What I’ve seen too often, especially in the high school system, when students can’t represent themselves clearly they end up being misrepresented,” said LaNave.

On another end of the spectrum however, Patrick Whittingham, second year Digital Media and Journalism student, feels the Students’ Union hasn’t been involved

enough in the lives of the student.

“To be honest, I never really felt attached to the Students’ Union in my first year of university here in Brantford,” Whittingham said. “All I saw last year was each candidate claiming they would fix something the previous president did wrong, something along those lines. That just didn’t resonate with me at all,” he admitted. He doesn’t feel the Students’ Union, especially during election time, does nearly enough to draw in first year students. Only second year students and onwards know exclusively about the flaws of the previous union. Even this year, according to Whittingham, not much is being done to directly reach out to new students or directly impact the first years.

Similar in essence to Whittingham’s view, LaNave also said that the Students’ Union has thus far failed to make their efforts known

by the students. “I haven’t noticed any problems, which may very well mean they’re doing their job right,” he said. LaNave explained that the election campaigns seemed to focus on very specific groups, such as the Rainbow Alliance, targeting issues the majority of the student body specifically wants resolved, but other important issues weren’t touched on nearly enough.

“As far as I know, the Students’ Union from last year did a good job, but some more publicity would be nice,” said Gauvreau. He explained that students “outside the loop of the union” don’t see very clearly at all what it is that the union actually does.

LaNave described the elections as being important in essence, but maybe not to the extent the union would like them to be. LaNave said, “Students’ Union elections exist for the same purpose government

elections do, because after a while things get biased, it’s important for philosophy in leadership to change in order for the system to evolve and progress.” He said that the Students’ Union gives the student body the ability to make a change, and that is incredibly valuable to the entire campus.

The general link between the student voice is that the union doesn’t do enough to directly better the lives of most students, or if they do, they do not make it well known enough. Whittingham describes the Students’ Union as being shown to the students to be little more than “just there, just sort of on the sidelines” except for when the elections are active. “The elections just float by as some random change, not seeming to really make much of a difference, and I think that passiveness really needs to change.”

We may not be experts, but we are honest An orange glow contrasts nicely with a strongly white head foaming from this tropical aroma. The citrus scent bring up thoughts of berries and vacations. With such a captivating smell, the gagging noises that soon follow were quite unexpected.

“It’s not that bad, if you deep throat it,” Manocchio manages to spit out.

Squinted eyes and crinkled noses finish this tasting quite quickly to get it done and over with.

Brittany Bennett Features Editor Christina Manocchio Photography Editor

This cloudy, golden wheat ale began our journey into the craft beers of Canada. One would assume an organic scent, but instead we find it similar to that of a stinky sock. The sparkling fizz takes your tongue by surprise. With split opinions on this odd smelling, sparkling ale, the success of intoxication at least begins our night with a glowing buzz.

Prison Break Pilsner, Double Trouble Brewing Co., Guelph, ON Christina Manocchio/The Sputnik

poured in front of us, as the dense looking beer darkens at the top. The smell brings on the thought, “I’m too drunk for this” as butt holes are considered in comparison. A couple scrunched faces gulp down what has the flavour of 30 year-old bacon or baking gone wrong. Oven baked french fries are necessary in taking this one down, but a half full glass still sits on the counter the very next day.

Hey Day Hefeweizen, Grandville Island Brewing, Vancouver, B.C. Christina Manocchio/The Sputnik

Hapot IPA, Hop City Brewing Co., Brampton, ON Christina Manocchio/The Sputnik

Here we have a clear, royal gold taking the stage with little head but quite the strong smell. The scent is pungent enough to feel in your head, quite an earthy flavour takes your nose by storm. With a simple taste a grainy, dry hop captures the tongue with a slight fruit sensation peeking through the citrus aftertaste. This pilsner has a bold flavour, bringing up the thought of nachos.

A Canadian brewing award labels this dark brown ale, giving high hopes that it will be better than the last. A thick creamy head bubbles just over the glass, topping off the damp, zingy aromas from within. A slight cringe takes down the initial gulp, to be pleasantly surprised with the bitter taste. The fizz sticks to the back of your throat, but luckily, no strong aftertaste comes along.

It looks as if a flat coke was just

Pompous Ass English Ale, Great Lakes Brewery, Etobicoke, ON Christina Manocchio/The Sputnik

Dark Lager, Side Launch Brewing Co., Collingwood, ON Christina Manocchio/The Sputnik

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THE SPUTNIK

WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 3, 2016

ARTS & CULTURE MATTHEW BURLEY | ARTS@THESPUTNIK.CA | @SPUTNIK_NEWS

Brantford’s Best Poutine Poutine photos Alex Vialette / The Sputnik

Alex Vialette Staff Writer I tried 11 different poutines from 11 different restaurants, all within the span of seven days. I gained some weight trying them all, and at this point there’s probably molten cheese curds clogging up some arteries. Trying them all made it hard to rate them fairly, as some were totally different from what poutine is supposed to be, but still really good.

I was born and raised in Montreal, so I’d like to think I know a proper poutine when I try one and can give these dishes decent reviews.

If you’re not interested in reading this whole article and just want to know who won, try The Works.

It’s the right gravy, good fries, they use cheese curds rather than shredded, and portions are huge. Also, it’s pronounced “puts-in”, not “pooteen”.

To make things easier, there’ll be four different categories: Classic, Alternative, Fast, and Faster. Most any Quebecer would scoff at the notion there’s more than one type of poutine, but bear with me here.

Classic poutine is pretty straight forward. They use fresh cut fries, cheese curds, and a medium, dark brown gravy made out of beef and chicken stock. There’s only really two restaurants that fall into this category, The Works and Rocklings.

The Works has their fresh cut fries, they use the right gravy, and the cheese curds aren’t crazy rubbery unlike most other places. The portions here are pretty big, which is great for the nine bucks it sets you back. In addition, it’s just as good microwaved. The Works gets “The Win.” Gravy 4.5/5 Cheese curds 5/5 Fries 3.5/5 Portion 4.5 /5 Price $9 Rocklings on the other hand is a little different. In general, Rocklings serves really good fries, but something about them in their poutine doesn’t work quite right.

They use all the right ingredients, but the gravy is a bit weak. Plus for nine bucks you don’t get a whole lot of the stuff. This isn’t to say it’s a bad poutine, just not great.

Gravy 3/5 Cheese 4/5 Fries 3 .5/5 Portion 3/5 Price $9

Alternative is weird, and specifically saying I like any of the following is where I’d lose friends back home. Even though they use different cheeses, or weird gravy, they can still be god damn delicious.

Their difference is their strength, and makes them more interesting than the classics. Taste is subjective.

Piston Broke makes the most sacrilegious poutine I’ve ever had, and it’s dope. The fries are fresh cut, which is what you’re supposed to have for a classic poutine, but they stop using the right ingredients there. Piston makes a Guinness gravy for this dish, and layers it with shredded cheddar cheese.

This is probably one of the best on this list and the first I’d go and get again. Piston gets the win for this category.

Gravy 4/5 Cheese 4/5 Fries 4/5 Portion 4.5/5 Price $9 Next up is the Rose and Thistle.

Out of all the poutines I’ve had in my lifetime, I can’t say I’ve ever encountered a gluten free one. Sometimes gluten free gets a reputation for being kinda dull in flavour, but this is the total opposite. The specific part that makes this one gluten free is the gravy, and it’s actually pretty good. It’s not the right gravy for poutine, but it makes the dish unique in its own right. Definitely worth getting one! Also, their portions are enormous.

Gravy 3/5 Cheese Curds 3/5 Fries 4/5 Portion 4.5/5 Price $10

Lastly for this category is Sociable. Their poutine is made kind of interestingly. First off they bake it, that’s definitely not the norm. Baking it melts all the cheese through which makes it all nice and stringy. Their gravy is really thick and made with the wrong stock, so it’s not the greatest, but the rest of the ingredients pull it together and make it okay.

Gravy 3.5/5 Cheese 4 /5 Fries 3.5/5 Portion 4/5 Price $10 Finally fast and faster, this one is pretty easy to explain. Fast is the word I’ll use for places that are fast food but Brantford specific, and Faster will be used for big chains like McDonald’s.

For fast there’s two places in direct competition, Lonnie’s and Admirals (surprise, surprise). Of the two, Lonnie’s gets the win. Seriously, 32 different poutines. The gravy they use is right, normally they use shredded mozzarella which isn’t as good as curds. However they layer it, giving every bite cheese. If you’re drunk and want something greasy and delicious, Lonnie’s is your best bet. Their fries speak for themselves, and the likelihood is every student here has had one of their poutines already, so here’s the score.

Gravy 4.5/5 Cheese 4/5 Fries 4.5/5 Portion 4/5 Price $8 On the flip side, if feeding a small army is more pressing than quality, Admiral’s is the best bet. The poutine is actually pretty good. Gravy

is on point, they use cheese curds too which was a pinch surprising.

It’s the fries that kind of break it.

They aren’t bad, they just aren’t quite right. Maybe that’s just me, who knows. Regardless, portions are MASSIVE. Definitely get bang for your buck here.

Gravy 3.5/5 Cheese 4.5/4 Fries 3.5/5 Portion 4.5/5 Price $9 Now, faster food, this won’t go too much into detail because really they aren’t anything special. These poutines aren’t Brantford’s best, but they are the cheapest. Wendy’s has the best one. They use cheese curds, provided they’re a bit rubbery (all of them in this category are), the fries are good, and the gravy is okay. Not bad for the four bucks it will set you back. McDonald’s is similar, but the gravy isn’t quite right. Same price as Wendy’s, just a pinch worse. Lastly, KFC. It tastes exactly like you would expect it to and costs five bucks. For some reason they add a bit of their iconic spices into the gravy which ruins it.

But hey, if that’s what you like, go for it.

Lastly as an honorable mention, because I wound up ordering off the menu to get this one, Boston Pizza can turn an order of fries into a poutine. It’s not the greatest one ever, but if you’re in the mood for one while you’re there they have you covered.

To sum it all up, the best poutines in Brantford are: The Works, Piston Broke, and Lonnie’s. Go and eat your hearts out (just try not to clog it while you’re at it).

THE SPUTNIK

WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 3, 2016

9

ARTS & CULTURE MATTHEW BURLEY| ARTS@THESPUTNIK.CA | @SPUTNIK_NEWS

Featured Artist Alumni Edition Jodi Cooper

Matthew Burley Art & Culture Editor 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 weeks Featured Artist is Laurier Brantford Alumni Jodi Cooper.

For anyone who may not know, can you introduce yourself to the readers and state what you do?

My name is Jodi Cooper and I’m an independent filmmaker of both documentary and scripted narrative films. I like to be involved with projects from the ground up (conceptualization to completion), but sometimes I freelance for one specific element like editing.

When did you graduate from Laurier Brantford and what did you major in?

I graduated in 2012 from the Contemporary Studies program with the Media Studies option. I understand this program is now called Society, Culture and Environment.

How did your time at Laurier Brantford influence your work process? Did you meet any cool people or make any good connections?

I definitely feel that my time at Laurier influenced my work. It was my first opportunity to cre-

Five Year Plan co-founders Jodi and Victor Cooper have good heads on their shoulders. They are seen here with Carlos Henriques, a special affects make-up artist of The Butcher Shop. photo courtesy of Five Year Plan

ate a documentary on my own for one of my classes. I also made connections with fellow students and faculty that have led to freelancing work.

Have you been back to Brantford since you’ve graduated? If so, how has it changed?

I did manage to take a tour of the campus a couple of years after graduation and was excited to see a number of new updates to campus buildings.

What made you want to be in the movie industry?

I think I’ve always been a storyteller at heart and films are just one way to tell interesting visual stories.

When one thinks of the movie industry, people usually think of meccas like Hollywood or New York. What keeps you in Ontario?

Having been born and raised in Ontario I feel a real connection to this place and I’m excited to learn that films can in fact be made here.

Eastern Ontario in particular is filled with so many creative individuals, industry professionals, and beautiful locations, until there is a reason for me to go to one of the meccas like Hollywood, I will continued to make films here at home.

What made you want to write a movie about Bigfoot?

The story actually started off as a straight up survival in the wilderness film. Bigfoot didn’t come in until later, but now we couldn’t imagine the film without him. Bigfoot is such a cool character and there is a lot of rich history surrounding the legend.

In the press release, it’s men-

tioned that The Woodsmen is going to be “THE BEST BIGFOOT FILM EVER MADE”. Why is The Woodsmen going to be different from other Bigfoot films?

In the past Bigfoot has commonly been portrayed as comical and even goofy. In The Woodsmen, Bigfoot is a terrifying, methodical, wild creature that these four friends stumble upon in the woods. We’re not going to shy away from showing our interpretation of Bigfoot, which is really rare in Bigfoot movies that usually rely on mysterious lighting and shaky camera work to hide him. We believe that fans want to see him in all his glory. This is why we’ve teamed up with The Butcher Shop Makeup FX Studio. They have extensive experience creating realistic looking creatures that we won’t have to hide in the shadows.

With Vantage Point Media House’s expertise in outdoor productions, I’m very confident we can reach our goal of making “The Best Bigfoot Film Ever Made”. See what did I tell you? There isn’t anything that you could want or need to make a film that you can’t find in Ontario.

So you work on films with your husband Victor; how do you feel that affects your process compared to if you worked by yourself?

In all honesty Victor makes sure I get things done. He says the same about me, so I think our working relationship keeps us accountable to someone so that our projects actually come to life. When you’re a creative person it’s so easy to have a lot of really great ideas that never

go anywhere, finding the right partner to keep you moving forward is invaluable. Together we’ve founded Five Year Plan which has grown from just the two of us to include Rob Howsam and Kirsten Wight who were both involved in Mercy as well.

When writing The Woodsmen, how was it in comparison to your other pieces of work?

The Woodsmen is our first feature script so right off the bat it’s been a lot more work from the very beginning. More writing and rewriting, and that’s even before we started planning for production. The bigger the project the harder it is to stay creative, when you start all the “real world” processes of number crunching and scheduling, so it’s definitely been a rewarding and challenging experience to keep up the momentum.

You produced the short horror Mercy, which ended up doing well.

What are some of the noticeable differences between writing a film and producing it?

Victor and I actually co-wrote Mercy as well so there are a lot of similarities between the projects, they’re both Five Year Plan projects. With a short it’s a lot easier to envision something, get a lot of value on the screen in a very short amount of time and then sit back and enjoy when there is audience response - which we’ve been very lucky to have with Mercy, as it travels around the world to various festival screenings. With a feature film there are certain elements that are just scaled up (exponentially), but

there are also brand new elements.

A feature is a bigger investment for the audience, so you really have to carefully consider what you’re asking of them and what you’re offering them in return.

So The Woodsmen is going to be filmed on Red Dragon cameras, which are pretty top of the line.

How did it feel to have those on the set? Are there any other cool pieces of equipment that helped The Woodsmen come together?

The Woodsmen is actually slated to start filming later this year, all that’s been completed so far is the teaser trailer to build excitement.

We did shoot the teaser and Mercy on Red cameras, which has been amazing, the image quality has been fantastic. It can also be a little nerve wracking at times to be working with such expensive equipment.

There are definitely times on set when we’re saying “Don’t get any blood on the camera!” or “Make sure you’re back far enough when they swing the axe!”

On Saturday, Jan. 23, musicians Cory Mercer and Chris Strei performed an acoustic show live at The Starving Artist Café in downtown Brantford. The show started at half past eight, and made for a choice way to spend a Saturday night.

The Starving Artist opened just six months ago, and provided the perfect, artsy and low-key feeling for an acoustic show, with a solid sound set up around the restaurant, and, according to my brother, stellar crêpes.

Mercer was the first to play. His set was predominantly heartfelt and melodic ballads, playing original songs conveying feelings of love, hope and moving on, specifically moving out of his house. A high-

light of his set was the song “Manifest”, and the heartwarming vibe of “Rocket”. In between songs, Mercer even mentioned that he wrote his song, “Take Me Back” while packing up boxes in the middle of moving.

Strei’s set, closing off the night, was a little darker and faster. As he said himself, “I like to sound experienced. I hate sounding like the new guy on the scene.” This shone through in his music and in between songs, with a certain charm to his banter, and notable expertise when watching him play.

His set was a solid mix of original pieces and covers, including songs from Vance Joy and Bon Jovi. As for Strei’s original tunes, they covered thoughts on love, sex and some bad

times. Personal highlights of Strei’s set included his opening song “Freezing Fire” and “Wrong”. At the end of the night, it was a difficult decision to buy. The album Faces from Strei’s band Minus Everything (which was being sold at the venue), is absolutely worth a listen.

Before the show, Mercer discussed his inspirations, achievements and future in music. Among these achievements are putting out an album with an eight piece reggae band called the BIGUPS, and playing a show with Canadian rock band, the Sheepdogs. In the near future, expect to hear an even wider arrangement of music from Mercer, as he’s putting out another album.

When asked about upcoming proj-

ects, Mercer said, “I’m working on a full-length album of all original material. It’s about 50 per cent done.”

As for Strei, after releasing the aforementioned full-length album, Faces, in August 2014, Strei has been working on a solo album, which, as he describes, “is more folk than it is rock, but it still has that alt rock element to it.” After seeing his set on Saturday, there is no doubt it will be incredible.

For more on these two talents, check out Chris Strei at reverbenation.com/chrisstrei, and Cory Mercer at corymercermusic.bandcamp. com.

Is there anywhere that people can check out your work while waiting on The Woodsmen?

Mercy is still playing the festival circuit so it won’t be available for a while yet, but people can definitely checkout The Woodsmen YouTube channel. We’re making a number of short behind the scenes videos as we go to keep fans in the loop. They can also check out the Five Year Plan Facebook page and they can find out more about the production company Vantage Point Media House.

A taste of what indie music offers Shelby Do Staff Writer The line, “advertise your virtue like nothing’s ever hurt you” from Cory Mercer’s song, “Manifest” is the perfect metaphor to describe being a musician full-time in Brantford. Music is a talent, and it requires an openness to new opportunity, and a willingness to work to achieve, even if there are some setbacks.

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THE SPUTNIK

SPORTS

WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 3, 2016

DEVON MOMY-GAMACHE | SPORTS@THESPUTNIK.CA | @SPUTNIK_NEWS

Time for Peyton

to ride off into the sunset

Devon Momy-Gamache Sports Editor Before I even try to convince you that the Broncos will win, I want to make one thing clear. The team that got crushed by the Seahawks two years ago in Super Bowl 48 no longer exists. Peyton Manning is old and the Broncos don’t have the highest scoring offence like they did back then. This team relies on its stellar defence which has stars in the front seven and in the secondary.

The Broncos have already done what many thought was unthinkable and managed to stop Tom Brady while tearing him apart with 20 hits during the game, which is the most times any quarterback was hit this season.

If the Broncos pass rush can hit Cam Newton that many times the wear and tear should slow him down regardless of how physical he is himself. The strongest aspect of the Broncos pass rush is the depth of the line. The group of Von Miller, Demarcus Ware, Derek Wolfe and Malik Jackson consistently pressured Brady while also tipping any passes he did get off.

Miller on his own should have the Panthers concerned, as the former second overall pick in 2011 has consistently been a star in his five years in the league. Miller is the third fastest player in history to reach 50 sacks, needing 58 games.

If the front seven for the Broncos can hold the line and get penetration the Panthers physical running game could be severely limited. If Newton, running back Jonathan Stewart and fullback Mike Tolbert aren’t able to get a running start they may not be able to run over the Broncos the way they did the rest of the NFL. After limiting Rob Gronkowski until the last drive, the Broncos now face another offence relying on its tight end in the Panthers Greg Olsen. After the Broncos got the good news that safeties T.J. Ward and Darian Stewart will be able to play after receiving injuries, the task became a lot more manageable. Olsen should expect a double team on every play and coverage from the Broncos biggest star corner, Aqib Talib (6’1’’, 205 lbs.).

The Panthers’ only other major receiving threat is speedster Ted Ginn Jr., The Broncos two-time AllPro shutdown corner. Chris Harris Jr. Should be fully healthy and able to follow him around the field with relative ease.

The Broncos should be able to spy Cam Newton on the rare occa-

sion he breaks free of the pass rush to help limit any broken plays when Cam attempts to run.

The Broncos offence will be in for a challenge, but with a veteran in Manning, the Broncos should be able to avoid crucial turnovers. The panthers defence has been able to sit back with a lead so far in the playoffs. Against Seattle in the divisional round the Panthers jumped out to a 14-0 lead less than five minutes into the game. Being able to sit back and wait for the pass helped Carolina hide their weak secondary. The Panthers were forced to sign veterans Cortland Finnegan and Robert McClain in December due to injuries at cornerback.

Manning had a rough year which included being benched after throwing four interceptions against Kansas City in week 10. A foot injury forced Manning to miss a few games, but, after returning and eventually playing as a back-up in week 17, Manning has not turned the ball over yet. Continuing this streak will be a key after the Panthers forced Arizona’s Carson Palmer into six turnovers in the NFC conference championship.

The Broncos run game will face a stiff challenge from the Panthers.

The Broncos do have the advantage as an offensive line of having their starters miss a combined five games since week four. Both tackles Ryan Harris and Michael Schofield along with centre Matt Paradis have started every game during that span. Communication will be key for the team in their zone blocking run style, which relies on everyone working on the same page.

At the running back position, the Broncos have been splitting the carries between the duo of C.J. Anderson and Ronnie Hillman throughout the season with both taking turns to star. Anderson has been the productive of the two, averaging 4.6 yards per carry in two playoff games and 5.7 over the last four games total.

If Anderson can continue his production it should give Manning just enough room to make the throws to the open receivers, other than the one Josh Norman is covering. If the Broncos can avoid turnovers and allow their defence enough time to stay fresh, it will be a success for the veteran Manning.

For the Broncos to win, it will take another excellent effort from their defence on every level to slow down Newton, both running and passing. This version of the Broncos’ defence is built to win the Super Bowl and should be able to carry the Broncos to victory on Sunday, and hopefully a Manning retirement.

Want to write sports?

Email sports@thesputnik.ca for details.

S U P E R

B O W L 5 0

Newton gets recognition but defence will win the game

Adam Stocker Staff Writer The Carolina Panthers have been the NFL’s best team this season.

Despite the Panthers winning 14 straight games and finishing the regular season 15-1, few are willing to acknowledge how good the Panthers are. The Panthers are the betting favourites in Super Bowl 50 for a reason. They’re going to win and they’re going to win big.

Led by MVP favourite Cam Newton and a great defence, the Panthers were among the league leaders in points scored and points allowed. In the playoffs, the Panthers have been more dominant.

In the NFC championship game, the Panthers dominated the Arizona Cardinals. The Panthers defence forced Carson Palmer into four interceptions and recovered a pair of fumbles. The Panthers won 49 to 15, punching their Super Bowl tickets.

Cam Newton deserves majority of the credit for leading one of the league’s best offences. However it is their defence that makes the Panthers a truly special team. The defence is headlined by linebacker Luke Kuechly. The Panthers selected the Boston College tackling machine ninth overall in 2012. Although Kuechly struggled early in his career, he has emerged as the league’s best linebacker in coverage and according to Pro Football Focus, no other player is even close to imposing on Kuechly’s lead.

Quarterbacks see receivers being covered by Kuechly and assume that a linebacker covering a receiver is mismatch- which has proved to be a big mistake. Kuechly has returned two interceptions for touchdowns in the playoffs. In Denver’s victory over New England in the AFC championship game, tight end Owen Daniels scored two touchdowns on blown coverages. Against Kuechly, Daniels won’t create any separation.

Part of what makes Kuechly so effective is the Panthers dominant defensive line, which beats opposing offensive lineman and prevents them from getting to Kuechly in the second level. The Panthers built the interior of their defensive line in the 2013 draft. The Panthers selected Star Lotulelei 13th overall and Kawann Short 44th overall.

Both have been disruptive forces in the middle of the line. Lotulelei received the bulk of hype early on, but Short has emerged as a star.

Short was named to the All-Pro team after he routinely beat offensive lineman, finishing with 55 tackles and 11 sacks. The biggest weak-

ness on the Broncos offence is their offensive line, which Khalil Mack dominated for five sacks in one half.

With Short and Lotulelei, the Panthers should win the battle in the trenches, limiting any running game for the Broncos and collapsing the pocket on Peyton Manning.

If there is a weakness for the Panthers defence, it is the secondary and an injury to linebacker Thomas Davis. Davis broke his arm in the Arizona game, but vows to play in the Super Bowl. His replacement is Panthers first round pick Shaq Thompson. Thompson did not see many snaps his rookie season, but may be a better athlete than Davis.

Thompson played both running back and safety at Washington before settling in as a coverage linebacker in the Panthers sub packages. While in the secondary, Josh Norman has emerged from small school obscurity into one of the NFL’s top corners. For most of the season throwing at Norman was no better than throwing the ball into the dirt. Norman will be in coverage on either Demaryius Thomas or Emmanuel Sanders and limit their impact on the game.

Offensively, the Panthers have to counter a Broncos pass rush that hit Tom Brady a record 23 times. Like the Broncos, the Panthers have a poor offensive line. But, Newton counters any pass rush with his size and speed. Newton is similar in size to both of Denver’s top pass rushers DeMarcus Ware and Von Miller.

What makes Newton so dangerous is his ability to break contain, extend the play and pick up first downs.

The Broncos possess a very good run defence lead by Derek Wolfe.

The Broncos will certainly limit the production of Panthers’ back Jonathan Stewart, but they will not be able to limit Newton’s effectiveness as a runner. Newton’s ability to run makes him extremely difficult to account for. Wade Phillips knows this and will almost certainly place a spy on Newton. But, this will leave the Broncos vulnerable in coverage.

The Broncos have a definite advantage in the passing game. Denver has three capable starting corners in Aqib Talib, Chris Harris, Jr and Bradley Roby. The Panthers’ receivers outside of tight end Greg Olsen somehow form a functional unit, despite being a collection of players no one really wanted. With no star receiver, the Broncos won’t match a corner up with any receiver. However, they will likely match safety T.J. Ward on Olsen. Olsen has been Newton’s favourite target over the five seasons they have played together.

When the game concludes, the Panthers offence will not be the unit that wins them the game. It will be the defence. A defence that will create turnovers and great field position for the offence.

THE SPUTNIK

WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 3, 2016

11

SPORTS

DEVON MOMY-GAMACHE| SPORTS@THESPUTNIK.CA | @SPUTNIK_NEWS

Varsity sports update Devon Momy-Gamache Sports Editor Laurier’s basketball and hockey teams are in the final stretch of the regular season and all are on pace to make the playoffs. Here’s a quick recap of every team’s season as they prepare for their final games.

Men’s Basketball The Basketball team has been a surprise so far this season tied for second in their division with a 6-7 record. With seven games remaining in the season, the Golden Hawks are on pace to do better than their 7-13 record from last season.

Will Coulthard has provided a veteran presence as the senior leader averaging 20.1 points per game, the sixth best in the OUA. Freshman sensation Simon Mikre has shown no nerves as the main distributor averaging a team high 4.5 assists per game. Chesson has averaged 16.8 points per game with Allin injured, compared to just over 10 before.

Laurier would be the 11 seed if the playoffs started today, but over their final seven games they will play against five potential playoff teams.

This stretch includes games against the top three teams in the CIS rankings Ryerson, UOttawa and Carleton. The stretch run will either be a rude awakening for the team or a chance to climb in the RPI standings that determine playoff seeding.

Women’s Basketball The women’s basketball team is on pace to reach the playoffs again.

The team is not as strong as last year’s that finished 17-3 and earned

the two seed for the playoffs. A record of 6-7 may be disappointing to some but once the playoffs start, the single elimination format can lead to some upsets. The Golden Hawks are third in their division and would be the 11 seed if the playoffs started today. The team has had some bright spots still this season with a few players. The star for Laurier this season has been junio r Nicole Morrison. Morrison is fifth in the OUA averaging 15.8 points per game. She has been consistent in her scoring, having scored in double digits every game so far this season. Morrison is also helping spread the ball around with a team high 2.8 assist per game.

The strength for Laurier has been limiting their opponents’ ability to shoot threes allowing the fourth lowest percentage in the OUA. If Laurier can keep that up, it should allow them to stay close late into games, giving Morrison the chance to give Laurier an upset win in the playoffs.

Men’s Hockey After two disappointing seasons of not making the playoffs, Laurier has climbed up the standing this year and is currently in sixth place in their division with a 12-11 record.

The Golden Hawks’ strength has been on the defensive side and in net. Laurier has the fourth highest team save percentage in OUA at .918, helping keep their goals against average low at 2.97, the eighth best mark in the conference. Laurier’s goaltending duties have been split between two equally talented goal-

ies. Sophomore Colin Furlong has started 13 games so far this season with a GAA of 2.82 and a SV percentage of .921. Furlong has split time in net with junior Vinny Merante who has posted a GAA of 2.95 and SV percentage of .919 in nine starts this season. Laurier has had a balanced approach on offence with 11 players collecting at least 10 points. Derek Schoenmakers has led the way for Laurier with 13 goals and 20 points which are both a team high. A balanced offence and solid goaltending could make Laurier a tough out once the playoffs start in mid-February.

Women’s Hockey After years of success, the women’s hockey team is fighting for a playoff spot with a 10-7-1-1 to place them sixth in the conference with the top eight making the playoffs.

Laurier recently changed starting goalies with Amanda Smith starting four of the last five after Lauren Webber started 13 of the first 14 games. In her four starts, the junior has only allowed two goals and won all four games, including an upset over second-placed Nipissing and third-placed Waterloo. On offence senior forward, Jessica Hurrell is leading the team with 17 points.

Freshman Madison MacCulloch has gotten used to OUA play and has totaled eight points in her last 10 games. With five games left in the season Laurier is still fighting to try and secure home ice advantage for the playoffs.

Brantford to host extramural hockey tournament

Jessa Braun Staff Writer Laurier Brantford’s women’s extramural hockey team will be looking for some purple and gold support in the stands as they host a tournament in town on Friday.

The tournament will be held at the Wayne Gretzky Sports Centre in Brantford on Feb. 5. The Golden Hawks began training about midway through first semester, and have already competed in one tournament. Their roster holds 15 talented women. The standards for the team are high, with 11 of them being returning players who took home a tournament championship last year.

“After all the practicing we’ve done together, and the team building, I know that it’ll reflect how we play together on the ice in a positive way,” said Samantha Keen, team captain. “We are a bunch of strong players, working together for the best possible outcome.”

With their tournament canceled last Friday at the University of Toronto’s Scarborough campus, it’s been awhile since the Golden Hawks have competed in competitive play.

Their only other tournament so far was during first semester at Humber North on Nov. 20. The Golden Hawks came away with no wins. Despite the disappointment, the team put up a good fight and only lost by one point each time.

The players stayed positive and saw it as a learning experience.

“We really came together as a bunch of players who have never played together before, and performed better than expected,” said Keen.

“We’re good, we just didn’t practice enough together as a team beforehand,” added left-winger Jenna Wilmot. “I think we’ll be more ready this time around.”

The Golden Hawks practice on Tuesday nights at the Civic Centre, led by a dedicated coaching staff and leadership group.

“We have a great head coach, Mr. Crumpton, who helps us out a lot at practices and during the games,” said Keen.

Helping out Crumpton and Keen are assistant captains Samantha Crumpton and Shannon Head.

After Friday, the Golden Hawks play in one more tournament this season. Laurier has the honour of hosting the 2016 Challenge Cup, a playoffs-structured tournament for Ontario extramural hockey teams.

The Challenge Cup will take place in March.

12

THE SPUTNIK

WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 3, 2016

OPINION

JOSH ADESINA | OPINION@THESPUTNIK.CA | @SPUTNIK_NEWS

WANT A JOB AFTER SCHOOL?!

YOU HAVE TO EARN IT.

Anna Principato/ The Sputnik

Josh Adesina Opinion editor Are you worried about landing a job towards graduation? I definitely am, and it’s okay to be a little intimidated. There is a lot of competition out there and you need to be prepared. Getting a job requires hard work and effort but there is

a key factor that can really help.

It’s called networking. If you are a hard working student with spotless marks you should be proud. Give yourself a biscuit. Although getting good grades is very important, eventually you will want to apply your skills in the workplace. In other words, you’ll be looking for a job.

You aren’t the only person that will be graduating with a degree. You ought to be preparing for a job long before you graduate. After all, those student loans won’t pay themselves off.

Being able to enroll at a post-

secondary institution is a great privilege. Education is key and can help you in every area of your life.

However, if you want to become a productive worker in the workforce then you need to understand how different industries work.

If you think you will one day fall into your dream job without any preparation…you are doomed. As a student, networking is key and will help you understand your industry of work, and what employers are looking for. A good resource for networking is LinkedIn which is a social networking website made

Multiculturalism is not a cure for racism

for connecting with professionals. LinkedIn is a phenomenal resource because you can look at job descriptions, and develop an idea about the skills you require. You’ll be able to look over the profiles of professionals that are employed in your profession. Check your Laurier emails and look out for networking events being held on campus.

Speak with people and develop knowledge about companies that you would be interested in working for. The time is now.

If nobody has mentioned this to you, I’ll be the first. The competi-

Playing for the cheque

Ricky Pacheo Staff Writer

Multiculturalism can help us understand each other but it doesn’t stop racism Jamaal Owusu-Ansah / The Sputnik

Arnisa Morina Staff Writer I strongly believe that multiculturalism is Canada’s strength. It appreciates all human beings, and the fact that they deserve equal treatment and protection of rights, along with freedoms regardless of their cultural background. Multiculturalism shows that society is stronger because of differences amongst its people, and that tolerance of diversity is not a weakness but rather a tremendous strength.

I think that multiculturalism benefits society because it encourages residents to learn about and understand backgrounds and cultures other than their own. It makes society stronger by overcoming divisiveness and ignorance. It also pro-

motes dialogue and appreciation of different perspectives.

It angers me when I hear arguments of multiculturalism making society weak because it tolerates differences. This is far from true.

I believe it takes great strength to step outside of one’s views, norms, and culture in order to welcome and embrace differences. Multiculturalism allows for the acceptance of dynamically different cultures, and permits them to live as one commonality.

While I support multiculturalism, I do not agree with the argument that multiculturalism helps tackle or prevent racism. I think this argument wrongly believes that racism is caused by cultural differences, and that multiculturalism would therefore cure racism. I have a problem with this argument because I think it promotes the idea that people of color do things differently than white people, which encourages discrimination. This is problematic. It ignores the fact that

even if people of color do things in the same way as white people, they are still treated unequally due to their race, instead of their culture.

Ignorance of differences is a tremendous challenge that humanity faces. Multiculturalism helps deter ignorance of cultural differences.

However, I do not think that it cures ignorance of racial inequality. I believe that even if cultures are embraced in society, racism will not be diminished unless society accepts and allows for the inclusion of diverse races.

I think every nation should value multiculturalism without confusing multiculturalism as the bridge that leads to the cure of racism. It is important to remember that racial intolerance causes racism and not cultural intolerance; these are two different things. It is important to recognize that nations can be strong because of differences and not in spite of them.

tion is ferocious, and life will not be the same after your studies. You will really need to make an effort to land a job. You may find employment from searching job listings but this shouldn’t be your only method. It is unfortunate to realize that not all students will find the job they want. However, you don’t have to be one of them. Get out there and network today. Make your parents proud.

With the Panthers facing off against the Broncos Super Bowl fifty and our own Toronto Raptors ranking second overall in the NBA’s eastern conference the visibility for professional sports couldn’t be any higher.

Whether it’s watching Steph Curry hit an easy three or Messi bring his team towards another championship, we can’t help stand in awe to the superior physicality of our favorite athletes. But equally important to our incentive of watching professional sports is the motive that drives our sports stars to constantly be at their best. The question is whether these highcaliber athletes play simply for the love of sport or their love of money.

Floyd Mayweather Jr, James Harden, & Messi are only few examples of high profile athletes who have made well known their love of money. The 600 000 euros a week Messi demands to kick a ball around for the premier league can feed countless starving children around the world. Mayweather almost having denied the “fight of the century” because his demand for fifty percent of gross pay per view revenue was not met. Harden who signs for an eighty million dollar contract to play five years with the Houston Rockets shows us the

kind of return you can get for selling your sportsmanship. But we shouldn’t discredit the value of organized professional sports just because a few athletes demand a wage that is more a reflection of their grandiosity than it is their talent.

Raptor’s power forward, Luis Scola, has been a major key to the success of the Raptor’s offence. Having conformed to the values of his team and playing at his best effort, Scola was only picked up for a mere three million dollar contract when in fact the value of his talent is much higher. It only takes the sensation of a few high profile players to taint the image of an entire industry. There is nothing wrong with watching and loving professional sports. It only takes the admiration over a mutual sports team to turn two complete strangers into friends. Franchises are developed, merchandise is sold, and contracts are bid over. It’s not unreasonable to think these franchises require millions of dollars to continue operating the way they do because that’s the way we like it. At the end of the day, we’re the ones that pay their salary so if you believe someone is earning more than they’re worth, you should adjust your viewing accordingly.

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