Impr int The university of Waterloo’s official student newspaper
Friday, November 7, 2008
imprint . uwaterloo . ca
vol 31, no 17
UW wins at hockey, golf and volleyball — page 26
The Dubai Question: An open letter to President David Johnston, page 7
Lest we forget...
With Remembrance Day approaching, we can only ask: How many of us wear the poppy blindly? Pay tribute by turning to pages 11, 14, and 15. maggie clark
OBAMANIA ‘08 A little southern fervour touches students of the True North. Barack Obama rocks the vote
Finding Obamas in the age of apathy
Border crossings
Inspirational films
November is the new Black History Month
Page 5
Page 8
Page 10
Page 18
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Imprint, Friday, November 7, 2008 news@imprint.uwaterloo.ca
RALPH NADER COMING TO UW
graphic by Jacqueline to
Consumer rights activist and perennial US presidential candidate Ralph Nader is giving the keynote address for the 35th anniversary of Waterloo Public Interest Research group (WPIRG) on Thursday, November 13, 7 p.m. at the Humanities Theatre. Nader is fresh off his fourth presidential run, this time as an independent candidate. As of November 5, Nader recieved 658, 393 votes placing him third behind Barack Obama and John McCain, far short of 2,883,105 votes he recieved in his controversial presidential run as a Green party candidate back in the 2000 US presidential elections.
Why Nader matters On civic responsibility, and engagement Andrew Abela staff reporter
F
resh off his fourth presidential run, consumer advocate and Green Party presidential candidate Ralph Nader will be speaking on Thursday, November 13 to the University of Waterloo about the role citizens play in the face of corporate control. The title of his lecture is “Dam-
aged Democracy: Civic Engagement in Times of Corporate Control,” and will be held at the Humanities Theatre at Hagey Hall beginning at 7 p.m. The lecture — hosted by the Waterloo Public Interest Research Group (WPIRG) — marks the 35th anniversary of Nader’s first visit to UW campus. Then, he proposed to lecture attendees the notion that the resources, time and knowledge students have access to should be used to promote public interest. The impact of his first visit, back in 1972, influenced a group of people to create the Ontario Public Interest Research Group, which eventually resulted in a public interest group movement across universities in Ontario and across Canada. It also lead to the inception of WPIRG the following year. 35 years later, WPIRG co-ordinator Evan Coole believes that, above the successes of individual projects, like Recycle Cycles and Sustainable Transportation, the ability to “inspire students and staff to take action on public interests issues is most meaningful” in the organizations development. Being one of the foremost lead-
ers of the public interest movement, Nader has dedicated the better part of his life to providing ordinary people with the skills necessary to oppose corporate negligence and government indifference. He has also been deemed “One of the 100 Most Influential Americans of the Twentieth Century” by Time Magazine and has recently received the distinction of being “One of the 100 Most Influential Figures in American History” by the Atlantic. Within the political realm, Nader is most famous for the creation of the Occupational Safety and Health Administrastion (OHSA), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Consumer Product Safety Commission. Additionally, he has helped draft and pass other related legislature including the Safe Drinking Water Act, the Meat and Poultry Inspection Rules, the Air and Water Pollution Control Laws and the Freedom of Information Act. After 35 years of experience in politics and civil engagement promotion, Nader is expected to offer a personal account of his work on the improvement of the quality of life
CLARIFICATION On the cover of last week’s Imprint, the word “Persian” in “Persian Gulf” on the graphic was partially obscured by the words “but can we,” leading some students to perceive Imprint as making a statement about the sovereignty of this region. The blurred-out text on the background map (U.S. in origin) pertaining to the sovereignty of three northern islands also yielded this reaction. No such statement was intended in either case, and Imprint apologizes for any confusion.
for the common person through effecting positive changes in policy and encouraging more active civil engagement amongst the populace. Although his success with legislature cannot be denied, Nader’s true influence has been in his ambition to provide the common person with the information and tools necessary to
become active and engaged citizens. WPIRG will be releasing a publication relating to their full history, likely in the form of a timeline, in honour of their 35 years. More articles about their history can be found online, at www.wpirg.org. aabela@imprint.uwaterloo.ca
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News
Imprint, Friday, November 7, 2008
UW faces economic crunch
The impending economic downturn has prompted UW administration to announce a hiring freeze and consider possible cuts to the scholarship and bursaries fund in the near future Zoe McKnight staff reporter
L
ast month’s hiring freeze for staff and faculty at UW in the wake of plummeting markets has launched concerns in the university community that losses to endowment fund investments will result in drastic cuts to student funding, aid, and services. At a town hall-style event in Hagey Hall November 5, UW President David Johnston and Provost Amit Chakma attempted to diminish fears while not ruling out reductions in student aid in the form of scholarships and bursaries. Chakma noted that while the rate of endowment “pay-out” from the funds did not decrease this year, downward market pressure in coming years will lead to two options: maintaining the current rate of funding to scholarships and
invested donations from the private sector and are normally considered reliable sources of funds, but like other investments, fluctuate with financial markets. President Johnston asked those present — mostly UW staff and faculty members, to “recognize there may be some hardship” in the coming months — and to exercise restraint and patience until it becomes clear what effect external markets will have on universities, especially in terms of the public funding from province that goes to operating budgets. He said one of the biggest concerns of the administration was “the student to faculty ratio, which already sits at 26 to 1, and which will likely increase with the hiring freeze, resulting in larger class size and less access to faculty support.” To alleviate the budgetary crunch, UW is currently
“mission critical” standard that will determine all hiring in the coming term. President Johnston encouraged listeners to aggressively pursue research funding from outside the university environment. Despite the gloomy financial forecast, Feds Vice President Education Andres Fuentes was quick to clarify that the operating budget and endowment funds at UW do not affect Feds-run student programs or services because that organization is independent. While Feds does have some investments, they are not an essential source of funding, he said, adding that the Federation of Students is stable, well-off, and prepared for a financial crisis if one materializes at UW. It is mostly access to student aid that will be affected. Fuentes said that the role of Feds in this case is to advocate for student aid and adequate funding
“The student to faculty ratio, which already sits at 26 to 1, and which will likely increase with the hiring freeze, resulting in larger class size and less access to faculty support.” — David Johnston, UW President bursaries, hoping to recover losses later, or reducing the rate of pay-out to make up for hard hits to investments. It would also be possible to divert savings from expenditure reductions in other areas to honour UW’s scholarship obligations. This school year saw spending of about $50 million on scholarships and bursaries, the majority of which are paid for by the endowment funds. Endowment funds are groupings of
pursuing policies that focus on recruitment of master’s, online, and international students, including going forward with the UAE satellite campus because they are “revenue positive” for the administration due to more tuition dollars, but which will aggravate the student to faculty ratio. Externally funded research chairs and grants will remain intact but it is research grants funded by UW that will be subject to the same
at the provincial level, like at the upcoming provincial lobby conference Feds executives will attend with other OUSA members, and lobbying for more strategic funding from the province — such as reworking the Textbook and Technology Grant into a more needs-based program. He also voiced concern that international students will become a “cash cow” for the administration as it attempts to increase enrolment from
“International students will become a ‘cash cow’ for the administration” — Andres Fuentes, Feds VP Education these students whose tuition is not regulated, and that the school will see a higher drop-out rate among the general population if debt loads increase when scholarships become scarce. Then, there is also the problem of quality control if the best and brightest cannot be recruited. Fuentes said the first step for Feds is to advocate at the administration and government level, and then to educate students on the realities of the situation once they become clear, although at the individual level some emergency funds are available from Feds. To Trevor Mayoh, president of the Ontario Undergraduate Student Alliance, it has become evident that the universities are too reliant on the endowment fund system to provide for the needs of students, and that it is government’s responsibility to ensure access by funding awards and bursaries through increasing the operating grants to institutions. He said once universities begin shutting down endowment spending, the merit-based scholarships that flow from those funds will thin out, and that government must step in to increase investment because it is “proven economics” that leaders must see “[post secondary education] as vital to the economy,” citing a TD Economic Report that indicated that for every dollar spent on post-secondary education, the
return is $4. More strategic investment is needed to allow universities to become the source of solutions and innovation. The Canadian Alliance of Student Associations National Director Zach Churchill echoed that sentiment. He said that all levels of government must work to ensure that students get adequate funding, with both general operating grants to schools, and targeted financial aid. He called on government to recognize that it is important now “to strategically invest its limited resources to benefit people and the economy in the long run” and that investment should start with postsecondary education, “even if [the government] is in a deficit.” He said that competition in the global knowledge-based economy requires investment, or Canada as a whole will fall back and will not come out in a favourable position, using figures from a recent Globe and Mail article that stated 70 per cent of jobs created in the last three years require postsecondary training, but only 40 per cent of the student-age population is enrolled. Churchill encouraged a long-term strategy of investment, and said that he hoped it would not come down to a trade-off between hiring quality instructors and funding student aid. zmcknight@imprint.uwaterloo.ca
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Imprint, Friday, November 7, 2008
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Barack Obama rocks the vote and Karzai calls out Obama Nokyoung Xayasane assistant news editor
America’s first black Presidentelect WASHINGTON, DC World leaders hailed Barack Obama’s sweeping victory on November 4 as a movement towards change. Shanghai News reported that Chinese President Hu Jintao said he looks forward to strengthening their international dialogue, while France’s Prime Minister Nicolas Sarkozy told BBC News that the “election has raised enormous hope in France, in Europe and beyond.” U.K. Prime Minister Gordon Brown called November 4th’s poll historic and revealed that he and Obama “share many values.” Current U.S. President George W Bush said Obama could rely on “complete co-operation” during the transition. He added that the victory was an impressive one for the president-elect and said that it represented strides “toward a more perfect union.” Since Kenya is the birthplace of Obama’s father, President Mwai Kibaki has declared a national holiday on Thursday, November 6. This historic election event has produced the first black President in U.S. history. Voter turnout was reported to be extremely high, and in some places — unprecedented. It was predicted that 130 million voters would cast their ballots — more than any election since 1960. “This is a great night. This is an unbelievable night,” John Lewis told Atlanta’s Ebenezer Baptist Churchon election night, as reported by Reuters. Lewis is a U.S. Representative and a former civil rights activist who was brutally beaten by police in Alabama during a civil rights march in the 1960s. The day following his triumph, Obama named the leaders to his transition effort and has offered Illinois Congressman Rahm Emanuel the chief-of-staff position. Emanuel was a former aide in
President Bill Clinton’s administration, and it is not known if he has accepted the offer. The decisive Democratic victory has expanded their majorities in both houses of Congress. Democrats gained at least five Senate seats and about 20 in the House of Representatives, giving them a majority in Congress. Four Senate seats remained undecided. At least 349 Electoral College votes have been won, with two states still too close to call. Obama led McCain in the popular vote by 52 per cent to 46 per cent. However, Obama has captured the presidency at a time of economic strife, environmental issues, and two lingering wars. Once Obama enters office, he faces pressure to deliver on his campaign promises and resolve these current problems. Obama’s first task is to confront the financial crisis — the worst since the Great Depression. He has also vowed to withdraw American troops from Iraq and to bolster U.S. troop levels in Afghanistan in the first 16 months of his term. Obama is well-aware of these issues. On election night, he appeared in Grant Park, Chicago, and told the crowd of supporters: “Even as we celebrate tonight, we know the challenges that tomorrow will bring are the greatest of our lifetime — two wars, a planet in peril, and the worst financial crisis in a century.” November 15 is the scheduled summit on the global financial meltdown, which will gather world leaders in Washington. However, the White House has said that it does not expect the president-elect to attend, although Obama has not yet stated his plans. National Intelligence Director Mike McConnell is expected to lead Obama’s first top-secret intelligence briefing, focusing on the conflicts of demographics, competition for natural resources, and climate changes. McDonnell believes that economic and population growth will strain resources: “Demand is projected to outstrip the easily available supplies over the next decade.”
The Waterloo Region Record wants to celebrate our area’s unheralded leaders and give them the recognition they deserve.
Many speculate that as the son of a black father from Kenya and a white mother from Kansas, Obama’s victory over Republican John McCain may assist in the country’s struggle against racism. Condoleezza Rice, Secretary of State, voiced the joy of many AfricanAmericans, calling the president-elect “inspirational” and praising the U.S. for its ability to surprise. “As an African-American, I’m especially proud, because this is a country that’s been through a long journey, in terms of overcoming wounds and making race not the factor in our lives,” Rice told reporters.“That work is not done, but yesterday was obviously an extraordinary step forward,” she said. During Obama’s victory speech at Grant Park, Chicago, he told exhiliarated supporters: “If there is anyone out there who still doubts that America is a place where all things are possible, who still wonders if the dream of our founders is alive in our time, who still questions the power of our democracy, tonight is your answer.” — With files from BBC, CNN, Shanghai News and Reuters
Afghan President voices criticisms regarding civilian deaths KANDAHAR, Afghanistan Afghan President Hamid Karzai reported that about 40 people were killed in a U.S. air strike in the southern Kandahar province. In a direct address to U.S. Presidentelect Barack Obama, Karzai congratulated him on his presidential win, but stressed that “the civil casualties should be stopped in Afghanistan.We cannot win the fight against terrorism with air strikes.” The air strike occurred November 3 in Shah Wali Kot district — a remote part of the province. Forces had been employed against the Taliban, but the missiles accidentally struck a wedding party — killing approximately 40 wedding attendants, including women and children. The father of the bride, Roozebeen Khan, told AFP that he “lost two sons, two grandsons, a newphew, my mother and a cousin. My wounded son was in my arms right here, bleeding. He died last night.”
According to villagers, the wedding lunch came to an abrupt and grisly end when a Taliban figher fired at international troops in a nearby hill. Returned fire ensued and air support was called in. The outrage over the civilian deaths have been voiced during the first visit to Afghanistan by General David Petraeus. U.S. Forces Afghanistan spokesman Cmdr. Jeff Bender said: “Though facts are unclear at this point, we take very seriously our responsibility to protect the people of Afghanistan and to avoid circumstances where non-combatant civilians are placed at risk.” He added that “if innocent people were killed in this operation, we apologize and express our condolences to the families and the people of Afghanistan.” The U.S. military had initially denied any civilan deaths, but once cell phone pictures were later released, General David McKiernan asked for a review of the initial investigation. — CNN
With files from Reuters and
nxayasane@imprint.uwaterloo.ca
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Do you know of a leader making a difference who lives, works, studies or plays in Waterloo Region? Nominate them for 40 under 40.
The Waterloo Region Record will accept submissions until December 5, 2008. Selections will be made by the Waterloo Region Record’s editorial department. The final 40 will be profiled in a special publication distributed on February 25, 2009. Submission deadline: Friday, December 5, 2008 Visit www.therecord.com for more details and online submission form.
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Imprint, Friday, November 7, 2008
Become a reporter Danielle Whittemore imprint intern
Pepper spray for WLU security
McMaster tuition not likely to drop
York on strike
Wilfrid Laurier University is preparing for a vote over whether or not certain constables should be allowed to use pepper spray. The vote will be electronic, and will occur this week. The idea of pepper spray has been drifting around campus for a while. A movement was finally stirred into action when two campus constables were assaulted, and one almost choked. Last Friday, WLU’s Board of Governors made a neutral statement on the subject, neither endorsing nor condemning it. The pros and cons have been weighed on either side. “The safety of the campus community is a major concern,” Barry Ries, a member of the Audit and Compliance Committee, told Laurier’s student paper. Following the incident where the constables were assaulted, WLU decided to monitor other schools whose constables are already in possession of pepper spray. A list of these schools includes the University of Windsor, Western, Brock, and Guelph. UW was also recently approved the idea to carry pepper spray. Wilfrid Lauriers Student Union (WLUSU) Board of Directors were divided on whether to condemn, endorse or make a neutral statement regarding the decision to allow the Special Constable Services to carry pepper spray. The WLU Board of Governors will be meeting at 1:30 p.m. on November 5, but in the end, it is the university’s decision. The board will have no say in the final outcome.
50,000 signatures were collected and given to Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty in a plea to drop tuition costs for students. It’s not quite that easy though. According to Richard Day, associate professor of psychology, neuroscience and behaviour, universities cannot drop tuition and still maintain their school. He told The Silhouette, McMaster’s paper, that an increase in students has a direct correlation with tuition increases. The reasons are simple: as the university accepts more students, they need more houses for residence, more classrooms, and more staff. They also need funding to pay for these increases, and that’s when tuition costs go up. Between 75 and 80 per cent of the universities budget is dedicated to salaries and wages and there is no way to decrease that percentage without letting people go. Therefore demonstrating the lack of flexibility of the university budget. Day told The Silhouette that the only way to decrease student costs would be to run a deficit, which in the long run would be a bad idea. “The university can’t run a deficit for too long… it will have to be paid back in the future and that will have to come from somewhere and it will affect future students,” Day said on an interview with The Silhouette. Considering the state of the Canadian economy at present, a deficit would be a particularly bad idea. The Canadian Federation of Students hosted a Day of Action across the province on Nov. 5 that demanded more accessible post-secondary education.
As of November 5, York University made no progress on long-standing worker negotiations, so CUPE 9303, a group including teaching assistants, graduate assistants and contract faculty, is now on strike — and class is cancelled for more than 50,000 students. Demands include a pay increase to match inflation rates and shorter contract terms (two years instead of three.) The union has since compromised to a seven per cent wage increase, but remain at an impasse: CUPE 9303 and York administration seem incapable of finding middle ground. “It’s not looking good for a strike at this point,” Robert Drummond, York chief negotiator told Excalibur, York’s student newspaper, while the strike was still imminent. “The question is, how short can we make it?” More than just the cancellation of classes, bus routes will also be altered by the strike, not stopping on campus at all. Students living in residence however, will be allowed to stay at York. Meanwhile, the Globe and Mail reports that custodial, grounds, and maintenance staff ratified a 9.25 per cent salary increase over the term of their new contract. The walk-out begins at 7:00 a.m. on November 6. York University’s last strike, in the 2000/2001 school year, started in May and lasted 11 weeks — leaving students now wondering if negotiations will be completed in time for them to finish their Fall 2008 term, according to the Globe and Mail.
dwhittemore@imprint.uwaterloo.ca
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Opinion
Imprint, Friday, November 7, 2008 opinion@imprint.uwaterloo.ca
An open letter to president david Johnston Friday, November 7, 2008 Vol. 31, No. 17 Student Life Centre, Room 1116 University of Waterloo Waterloo, Ontario N2L 3G1 P: 519.888.4048 F: 519.884.7800 http://imprint.uwaterloo.ca Editor-in-chief, Maggie Clark editor@imprint.uwaterloo.ca Advertising & Production Manager, Laurie Tigert-Dumas ads@imprint.uwaterloo.ca General Manager, Catherine Bolger cbolger@imprint.uwaterloo.ca Ad Assistant, vacant Sales Assisstant, Lawrence Wang Systems Admin. Dan Agar Volunteer Co-ordinator, Angela Gaetano Distribution, Rob Blom, Ash Mukadda Interns, Matthew Lee, Brandon Rampelt, Holly Sage, Danielle Whittemore Board of Directors board@imprint.uwaterloo.ca President, vacant president@imprint.uwaterloo.ca Vice-president, Sherif Soliman ssoliman@imprint.uwaterloo.ca Treasurer, Lu Jiang treasurer@imprint.uwaterloo.ca Secretary, Vanessa Pinelli secretary@imprint.uwaterloo.ca Staff liaison, Peter Trinh liaison@imprint.uwaterloo.ca Editorial Staff Assistant Editor, Dinh Nguyen Head Reporter, Vacant Lead Proofreader, Paul Collier Cover Editor, Kevin Shahbazi News Editor, Yang Liu News Assistant, Nokyoung Xayasane Opinion Editor, Travis Myers Opinion Assistant, Keith McManamen Features Editor, Duncan Ramsay Features Assistant, Caitlin McIntyre Arts & Entertainment Editor, Mark Kimmich Arts & Entertainment Assistant, Marco Baldasaro Science & Tech Editor, Anya Lomako Science & Tech Assistant, Eric Gassner Sports & Living Editor, Adrienne Raw Assistant Sports & Living, Tina Ironstone Photo Editor, Mackenzie Keast Photo Editor Assistant, Ethan Oblak Graphics Editor, Tifa Han Graphics Assistant, Jacqueline To Web Administrator, Sonia Lee Systems Administrator, vacant Production Staff Kate Kennedy, Rajul Saleh, Susie Roma, Tim Clark, Jeff Kelly, Alicia Boers, David Teixeira, Tom Levesque Graphics Team Tifa Han, Jacqueline To, Armel Chesnais Imprint is the official student newspaper of the University of Waterloo. It is an editorially independent newspaper published by Imprint Publications, Waterloo, a corporation without share capital. Imprint is a member of the Ontario Community Newspaper Association (OCNA). Editorial submissions may be considered for publication in any edition of Imprint. Imprint may also reproduce the material commercially in any format or medium as part of the newspaper database, Web site or any other product derived from the newspaper. Those submitting editorial content, including articles, letters, photos and graphics, will grant Imprint first publication rights of their submitted material, and as such, agree not to submit the same work to any other publication or group until such time as the material has been distributed in an issue of Imprint, or Imprint declares their intent not to publish the material. The full text of this agreement is available upon request. Imprint does not guarantee to publish articles, photographs, letters or advertising. Material may not be published, at the discretion of Imprint, if that material is deemed to be libelous or in contravention with Imprint’s policies with reference to our code of ethics and journalistic standards. Imprint is published every Friday during fall and winter terms, and every second Friday during the spring term. Imprint reserves the right to screen, edit and refuse advertising. One copy per customer. Imprint ISSN 0706-7380. Imprint CDN Pub Mail Product Sales Agreement no. 40065122. Next staff meeting: Monday, November 10 12:30 p.m. Next board of directors meeting: Friday, November 7 10:30 a.m.
THE DUBAI QUESTION UW’s Senate fights for human rights
T
he University of Waterloo is presently undertaking the development of a satellite campus in the United Arab Emirates. This new campus will feature programs in Civil and Chemical Engineering and eventually Financial Analysis, Risk Management, and IT Management. Courses at this campus will be taught by UW faculty, and students at this campus will be full UW students. The campus will be constructed and operated by UW’s private-sector partner in the UAE, the Centre of Excellence for Applied Research and Training (CERT). This is a new and exciting opportunity for UW, but, as the Provost has indicated to the Board of Governors, it is UW’s “riskiest proposal yet.” UW already has, is developing, or is considering local satellite campuses — in Cambridge, Kitchener, and Stratford — and has 2+2 programs in other countries, where students admitted to other universities eventually continue their studies at UW. Never before has UW operated a satellite campus, with its own faculty and with students registered as UW students, in another country. This is both a promising opportunity and a tremendous challenge for the University of Waterloo. UW has done a good job on many fronts: •The academic programs that are planned for the UAE campus have support from within their respective departments and faculties and serve to advance UW’s academic mission and enhance quality. •UW has ensured its academic independence as it deals with its partners in the UAE. •Our financial plan is sound, brings important revenue to the university, and mitigates financial risk by avoiding capital construction. •Male and female students will be able to attend joint classes and there seems to be no substantial gender-based discrimination in the plans as they stand. But many concerns still remain about the operation of a UW campus in a country with substantially different human rights under the law. Moreover, a satellite campus in another country is a fundamental change to the character of the University of Waterloo. As undergraduate and graduate student representatives, we have three main areas of concern: 1. UW needs to protect the rights of UW faculty and students, particularly related to academic freedom and sexual orientation. 2. UW should protect the labour rights of those involved in the construction and operation of the UW campus in the UAE. 3. There should be a full consultation of the university community. We recognize that these first two concerns are challenging questions for which there is no simple answer. But we feel that UW can do more to address these concerns by clarifying its current efforts and, going forward, exemplify the values it promotes as an institution of higher learning. Develop a strategy: Academic freedom and human rights
During presentations to Senate and the Board of Governors, some UW administrators have responded to questions about discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation in the UAE by describing the climate in the UAE as “live and let live,” but this claim is simply not true: numerous anecdotal examples can be found in the media, and UAE law is clear that many acts are prohibited with harsh penalties. We worry that UW faculty and students will be subject to discrimination or persecution based on attributes that UW believes to be fundamental human rights.
We have a number of questions about how UW will effectively implement its ethical values as embodied by Policy 33, especially those related to women, nationality, and sexual orientation. How will UW ensure that all rights of faculty, staff, and students under UW Policy 33 (Ethical Behaviour) — including rights of women and rights regarding nationality and sexual orientation — are protected on its UAE campus? — Will UW require staff employed by our partner in the UAE, CERT, to follow Policy 33? — How will UW publicize (to its students) and enforce Policy 33 in a climate where the laws of the host country are in direct conflict with policy? — Will UW provide legal support to UW faculty and students adversely affected by UAE law for actions that are protected under Policy 33? — How will UW ensure that counselling, health, and student services reflect all the values in Policy 33? — How can UW reconcile the sentiments that “participating in the UAE campus is a great opportunity” and “those without protection in the UAE, such as LGBTQ faculty members, should avoid participating?” — What assurances does UW offer to UW faculty and staff that their choice in not participating in the UAE campus will have no negative impact on their career at UW? Academic freedom ensures that well-reasoned research and teaching can be presented and debated even when it expresses unpopular viewpoints, and is an integral component of the vigorous academic environment of UW. As reported by Amnesty International, freedom of expression is sometimes curtailed in the UAE. It is not hard to imagine research performed by UW faculty or students in the UAE that could be critical of local policy. — What assurances has UW sought and received that the academic freedom of faculty and students will be protected on its satellite campus in the UAE? — How will UW effectively monitor and regularly report on the status of academic freedom and human rights on its UAE campus? These questions are detailed examples of what we think is a fundamental, unanswered question regarding UW’s plan for a satellite campus in the UAE: — What is UW’s risk mitigation strategy when it comes to human rights? Lead by example with UW’s ethical values
Besides the rights of UW faculty and students in the UAE, we are concerned about the rights of those employed in the UAE to bring about UW’s satellite campus, both during construction and during operation. UW can lead by example by requiring its partner in the UAE, CERT, to extend rights to those involved with UW’s satellite campus. Construction in the UAE employs large numbers of migrant workers who have few labour rights under the law — no right to organize, bargain collectively, or strike — and who are often subject to poor treatment in employment practices and accommodation. — Will UW require our partner in the UAE, CERT, and its contractors to extend fair labour rights to employees, even beyond what UAE law guarantees? For example: equal pay for equal work regardless of nationality or sex, safe working conditions, timely payment of all wages, reasonable working hours and compensation for all overtime, no retainment of workers’ passports, the right to form an association or union, and an impartial ombudsperson who can be contacted by concerned employees without fear of reprisal. Once our satellite campus in the UAE is completed, much of its day-to-day staffing — teaching assistants, administrative staff, food and housing staff, student services staff, plant
and custodial staff — will be provided by employees of our partner in the UAE, CERT. — Will staff employed by our partner in the UAE, CERT, be protected under Policy 33? Consult the full university community
The development of a UW campus in the UAE is a fundamental change to UW’s operation: never before has UW operated a satellite campus in another country, and never before has UW had a permanent major presence by UW faculty and students in a country with such different human rights protections. It is our opinion that such a proposal needs the full support of the university community. While a memorandum of agreement has been approved by the Board of Governors in a confidential session, we feel that the full university community — faculty, staff, and students — has not yet had a chance to express its opinion. We believe that Senate — whose powers under the University Act include making recommendations to the Board of Governors regarding the creation of new organizational structures within the University, undertake long-range academic planning, and consider the affiliation of the university with any college for teaching any branch of learning – is the right place for this discussion. Moreover, we believe that Senate should be asked to approve a recommendation to the Board of Governors on the UAE satellite campus, even though no academic plan needs to be changed for the satellite campus to proceed. We call on UW administration to bring a proposal for the UAE campus to Senate for a vote before the final contract between UW and CERT is signed by President Johnston on December 21, 2008. Further, we call on UW to ensure broad, open consultation with the university community — faculty, staff, and students — for future proposals for satellite campuses, and to commit to bring all such proposals to Senate for a recommendation vote before Board of Governors approval. We believe that a UW satellite campus in the UAE is an exciting prospect: the cultural and academic exchange for UW faculty and students supports UW’s internationalization goals and can further advance UW’s academic mission, but important questions remain about how UW will ensure its values are preserved in this new environment. We look forward to participating in a fruitful discussion on these topics. Signed, Samuel Andrey Governor and Undergraduate Science Senator Allan Babor Undergraduate Arts Senator Jenna van Draanen Undergraduate Applied Health Sciences Senator Chris Neal Governor and Undergraduate Mathematics Senator Matthew Schumacher Graduate Senator Craig Sloss President, Graduate Student Association Douglas Stebila Governor and Graduate Senator Kathleen Wilkie Governor and Graduate Senator Justin Williams President, Federation of Students Governor and Undergraduate Senator
8
Opinion
Imprint, Friday, November 7, 2008
Finding Obamas in the age of apathy
I
hate to quote song lyrics, but when Morrissey sings “I tried again, I tried again, and now my heart is full,” I think he best summarizes the varied returns my hopes yielded in the last three American elections. So emotional was President Obama’s win for me that I feared any attempt to write a column this week would be overwhelmed by fatuous gushing and appeals to “hope” in all times of crisis. Then I read the comments pages in the New York Times, and hallelujah, my faith in the inevitability of dissent was renewed. More than the comments about Obama being all talk and no action, and more than the convictions that Democratic presidency is what saw terrorist attacks and economic turmoil realized in the U.S., it was the furious “Congratulations, your candidate won — at the cost of your integrity” attacks on the New York Times that struck me as most profound. Despite the huge crowds filmed rejoicing on Tuesday, tears streaming down their faces as they awaited the victory speech; despite the record voter turnout, with a surge in youth and minority voters especially; and despite the record-breaking Democratic fund-raising drive that led to the party’s success on election day, some people will still always prefer to think of their fellow citizens as sheep, and thus easily — inevitably — swayed by media coverage. Not themselves, of course — never: These few dissenters alone know how to think rationally and independently — but everyone else? Weak-minded liberals: have to be. Clearly, there’s no other reasonable explanation for why the election turned out as it did.
As I come to the close of commenting on the media in relation to the U.S. election, it is this mentality, as much as the “power of hope,” that I find merits our continued attention. After all, there will always be those who refuse to believe in the importance of “one,” and who will in turn always regard institutions as greater than the people who run them — or for whom they are run. These people will always regard citizen journalism, for instance, as being without merit: in one fell swoop they will dismiss active counter-commentary from
so we who believe otherwise must be equally adamant, and outspoken: we all have the power to be “community organizers,” after all — to rally with our words and actions around different perceptions of the common good, and then to achieve them. UW students probably know this better than some: With our fingers on the pulse of telecommunications and broadband media growth; with our engineers applied to cuttingedge research topics in these areas, as well as to the redress of global development problems; with our math faculty engaged in the creation
We all have the power to be “community organizers,” after all — to rally with our words and actions around different perceptions of the common good, and then to achieve them. individuals’ video channels or blog posts, overlook the changing forms of mainstream media in response to new technologies and differentlyengaged audiences, and even go so far as to forget their own, greatly enhanced privileges — including the ability to express their dissent in an ongoing comments page discussion in the first place. No matter how great the proofs that change can happen, and that individual hopes can be combined to yield a collective reward, there will always be dissenters among us — people who disparage and distrust individual efforts, even as they express resistance to government regulation that would ostensibly offset individual incompetence . And
of more advanced software and security technologies; with our faculty of environment and architecture campus more prominently tackling the needs of a sustainable future; and with our arts and business students training to be the social entrepreneurs and leaders of tomorrow, how can we not? We are no more the companies and organizations we will work for (or run) than the New York Times was the voice that decided the U.S. 2008 presidential election. Rather, these institutions are tools of change, which we as individuals can apply our labour to, and through which we can attempt to make a difference in the world as a whole. I say “can,” of course, because there will
also inevitably be those who regard their work as a job alone — just as they regarded their university degrees as tickets to employment alone. And these people are just as dangerous as those who regard their fellow citizens as sheep, easily jerked about by the will of institutions as a whole. Against indifference, we must be just as strong as we are against pessimism. When enough people, having come to independent decisions about where to focus their energy and values, push in one direction, the world will move for them. It happened on November 4. It happened in the two years leading up to this election. It happened years earlier, too, as alternative media sprung up to create better opportunities for real social discourse — and to call out false coverage and polemic debates as citizens saw them, too. It happened when our generation started applying privileged personal technologies — like camera phones and the internet — to fundraising, awareness-raising, and the development of a more complete record of contemporary history. “Far better is it to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs, even though checked by failure... than to rank with those poor spirits who neither enjoy much nor suffer much, because they live in a grey twilight that knows not victory nor defeat.” so spokePresident Roosevelt, but in the end — and in true, individual empowerment fashion — a friend of mine puts it much simpler, as part of the signature on every email she sends out. “Go,” she says. “Do good things.” It’s really not that hard. editor@imprint.uwaterloo.ca
Re: Cover graphic for Oct. 31 Unfortunately, Imprint of this week (October 31, 2008 Vol 31 No 16), in the front page has replaced the word “Persian Gulf ” with “Gulf.” Please note that according to the twenty-third session of the United Nations in March-April 2006, the name “Persian Gulf ” was confirmed again as the legitimate and official term to be used by members of the United Nations. Question: isn’t Canada a member of the United Nations? This is not acceptable for an academic newspaper. As a student at UW and therefore a supporter of Imprint, I would like to see the correction of this mistake as soon as possible. Mahmoud Ghaznavi 1A Math Editor’s Response: To answer your question, yes, Canada is a member of the United Nations. The graphic in question does, in fact, have the word “Persian” found in it, but as article focuses on Dubai and the United Arab Emirates, the landmarks and periphery aren’t focal points and are blurred behind headline text. If you look closely, you can in fact see the word “Persian” behind the headline deck. This was by no means an attempt on the part of Imprint to use an unspecific term for the body of water. Travis Myers Opinion Editor
See page 3 for Imprint’s clarification
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Opinion
Imprint, Friday, November 7, 2008
WANTED:
An inspirational leader
I
t’s time for another election already. Maybe you won’t be voting, but nearly a third of Canadians will head back to the polls in December to elect a new government in Quebec. Premier Jean Charest, like Harper a month before him, has asked Quebecers to give him a stronger mandate, and to decide which party and leader are best suited to guide the province through this economic storm. The similarities between the two, and politicians at large of late, go further than that.
of carbon emissions tax and large personal and corporate tax cuts and incentives. Meanwhile Harper’s plan for a cap and trade system would have charged $65 per tonne to those over the limit, but it never once got mentioned or questioned during the campaign. The power of negative messages was clear as day to me when so many friends and family told me they felt well-informed, only to be shocked to find out, after all the Conservative ads, that the Green Shift would
Maybe that’s why we had one of the lowest voter turnouts in history, whereas the Americans reported one of their highest. For Harper, calling his election involved going against a law he passed regarding fixed election dates — ironically because he felt he could accomplish nothing with this government — and then proceeding to run almost to the finish line solely on all the things he felt he’d done for the country and ways he felt he’d made government work. Charest, despite a non-binding motion passed by the opposition parties calling on him to not call an election as they vowed to work with him as fellow Quebecers to help the province weather the storm, seems to be looking for political gains with his move. Tabling a balanced budget proposal for the next several years, calling an election at the height of economic panic — before any new governments can calm down national and global worries — it certainly feels more like a move to prey on the public than to help them. At least if he’d agreed to the opposition’s plan, if they’d been uncooperative, an election called at that point would cast them in the unfavourable light that so affects campaigns. It’s the ends that matter now, not the means. Dion was pounded into the ground over his Green Shift plan to phase in a $40 per tonne
never tax gas. Sure, you could say that the tax would eventually filter its way back down, but it was never direct. As far as filtered costs go, any economist will tell you that fixed costs and expenses are a lot better than a floating and variable tax system with more holes than swiss cheese; no surprise Harper never thought to serve it up with crackers during the election. This is not about either the recent federal or upcoming provincial election; it is bigger than that. “Great politicians are supposed to inspire people, not just be better than the alternative,” said a character on the TV series Greek. Maybe that’s why we had one of the lowest voter turnouts in history, whereas the Americans reported one of their highest — even though you can still fault the inspirational Obama for neglecting his own promise to agree to a spending limit with McCain, and then burying him into the ground with ads and even half-hour TV messages when he discovered his true fundraising power. I am indeed upset and distraught over the diminished importance of policies and increased importance of politicking currently on display, a trend that needs to halt immediately, just as the government needs to stop
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talking about what the Liberals didn’t do and get started planning what they will do. It needs to stop spreading lies in its ads, spreading them as John Baird did when claiming that documents found this summer on Ottawa streets were “neither classified nor secret, and it’ll be something that could be available under access to information,” even as they were classified top secret, and access to information versions were heavily censored. It all must end, for even what little gains it may earn, the house of cards will eventually fall, leading back to square one. All the time and effort that could be used to better shape and guide our country gets wasted trying to keep it blind, ignorant, and bickering. It’s no wonder that politicians are concerned about voter apathy and low involvement, and yet it is their own actions and character that lead directly to this. More so even than the ever-looming spectre of the Quebec separatist movement, such a fractured, fiending government is what threatens this country most, and makes it most difficult for its current and new citizens to feel loyalty to it. How much longer must we be a nation divided? adodds@imprint.uwaterloo.ca
W
9
community editorial
alking into Dana Porter Library recently, I noted the contrast between the building’s dated 1960s exterior and the newly renovated and ultra-modern main floor. I was impressed, but it was only after ascending to the sixth floor for a bit of studying that I realized that for the everyday student user of Dana Porter, nothing has changed at all. The wi-fi signal is still weak, the amazingly uncomfortable chairs are still 40 years old, and the matching study carols are still covered with messages whose wisdom rings across the decades: “Peter was here, 1978.” I then remembered why I avoid this library at all costs: because anywhere else is better than studying at Dana Porter. Approximately $2.8 million was raised to fund extensive renovations to the main floor. Supposedly, the changes would include an increased number of individual study areas, group study areas, additional workstations, enhanced window views, and improved signage and displays. In other words, old lady Dana was due for a botox injection, so now the main floor resembles a faux hipster café. There was a proposal submitted recently to the Waterloo Environment Students Endowment Fund (WESEF) from staff at Dana Porter Library requesting money for new ergonomic chairs to replace broken chairs throughout the building. It should be noted here that WESEF is a fund created and sustained solely by students. It provides money each term for innovative student proposals that improve the experience of students in the environmental faculty.
There is nothing essential about it: the $30 per term contribution is entirely voluntary. The proposal was rejected without debate. So why did the library spend millions on a superficial renovation when essential furniture was broken and needed replacing? Because floors six to ten are not visible to the bright eyes of the prospective student; what they see on their tour is the shiny cocktail lounge that the main floor has become. Attached to the proposal for new chairs was another requesting money for recycling bins on the main floor. This should make every UW student comically spew their mouthful of Tim Hortons coffee: to pad the budget for luring prospective students, the university is officially manipulating voluntary student endowment funds into paying for basic necessities. According to the details of the submitted proposals, they have already extracted $14,000 in funding from the Arts Endowment Fund, and some from the Math Endowment Fund as well. I am reminded of a scene from the 1973 Disney adaptation of Robin Hood in which the evil Sheriff of Nottingham crashes in on a birthday party for the smallest member of a destitute family of rabbits. The sheriff announces that he’s doing his duty as a tax collector and so justifies taking all of their meager savings and little Thumpy’s birthday coin. I guess we’re just a lot of overworked students too focused on enduring our programs to realize how profit-driven UW has become. — John O’Reilly
10
Opinion
Imprint, Friday, November 7, 2008
political FORUM
Border crossings My other Obama is a Millenium Falcon
W
ithout even having the final results of the American election before its press deadline, the November 5 National Post dedicated an entire front section (not a page, mind you, but an entire section) to the impacts of Obama’s electoral victory. Who will be the choice for Treasury? Will the “Oracle of Omaha,” Warren Buffett, play an official role in the White House? How will Obama’s policies affect Canada? Questions of this sort will be asked — and answered — in the weeks and months to come. Obama will come under the microscope to a greater degree more than any president-elect in recent memory, in great part because of his promises of sweeping change. Yet as the political pundits continue to speculate and predict, two key changes are sure to take place.
First is the shift in consciousness that will take hold in a great part of the African-American community, a demographic tens of millions strong. Some of the sharp dividing lines in our neighbour to the south can be difficult to explain to those who have never seen them. Economic divisions run all too parallel to racial divisions in that country. The United States, despite being one of the world’s leading nations, still finds tens of millions of people living in poverty within its borders. African-Americans make up a disproportionally high percentage of the American poor. To have children raised in a world where an African-American is continually referred to as “the leader of the free world” will have a considerable impact on the American consciousness. Even Jesse Jackson and Oprah Winfrey,
Congratulates Rob Hicks!
the latter of whom is one of the world’s richest people, cried tears of joy at Obama’s victory speech in recognition of the changes to come. Only the foolish will argue whether or not the problem of racism has been “solved,” for it has not. A new set of questions has already arisen for a new generation of black leaders, but it is certain that the playing field has been substantially altered. We will continue to hear a lot about this “historic” shift in the media. However, one other shift that we won’t hear much about finds its roots in Obama’s campaign slogan: “Yes We Can.” The Democrats’ rise to power in 2008 has the potential to represent much more than simply the rejection of the so-called “Bush doctrine.” It can represent the opposite as well. The greatest reason that Obama was able to take both the Democratic primary and the presidency was by the support and hard work of millions of people, over nearly two years. One of the deciding factors of Obama’s legacy will be rooted in how well he continues to harness this service-oriented mindset throughout his time in office. For a generation that will suffer the effects of a crisis caused by greed and laziness — by those using credit to access more than they should have had access to — being able to cultivate a populace that is not only accepting but enthusiastic of a culture of service will see the rebirth of an American ideal that lost its way under eight years of Republican rule. — Andrew Dilts Stock photo, public domain
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Features
Imprint, Friday, November 7, 2008 features@imprint.uwaterloo.ca
Remembrance Jeff Kelly staff reporter
I
t is difficult, perhaps impossible, to imagine what life was like for Canadian soldiers in the wars that wracked the globe in the first part of the 20th century. I have grown up in a nation which knew no real military threat, and whose involvement in overseas conflicts (before Afghanistan) was limited to peacekeeping and seemed infinitely remote. “War” was something from the past, a subject for old movies and boring books in history class, and not something that still affected the new generation — not something that could happen again, to us. Remembrance Day serves as a potent reminder that the current stability enjoyed by most of the world wasn’t an inevitable outcome. In conflicts that dwarfed all that came before them, the two World Wars saw nations seeking to build an empire by invading their neighbours pitted against allies who opposed such aggression. What would the world be like if Hitler’s armies had not been pushed back and Europe, Africa, Asia and Oceania had fallen under the control of the Axis powers? Thanks to the efforts and sacrifices of millions of soldiers from Canada and other Allied nations, we didn’t have to find out. I conducted a brief poll — admittedly an unscientific one — of students in the Davis Centre, asking them about Remembrance Day. Most students (although not all) were aware that it was on November 11 and most knew that it somehow recognized or honoured soldiers or people who had died, but very few knew any more than the most cursory details. Some students assured me that Remembrance Day had something to do with poppies, though they were unsure why, and aside from a handful
of poppy pins, no one indicated that they intended to make any special observation of the occasion. Out of everyone I spoke to, only two people knew where in Waterloo they could go to take part in Remembrance Day events, and only one knew why it took place on November 11 at all. First dedicated by King George V in 1919 to commemorate the end of World War I, Armistice Day (as Remembrance Day was then called) was a time to honour those who lost their lives in service of their country, as well as recognizing the efforts of surviving veterans. Two minutes of silence are observed at 11:00 a.m. on November 11, in recognition of the fact that conflict in the First World War ended on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. It is traditional for the Last Post, a mournful bugle call, to be played immediately before the two minutes of silence, and there may also be gun salutes before or after the silence. At cenotaphs and war memorials in towns across Canada, and indeed across many commonwealth or Allied countries, it is also common for veterans’ parades and the laying of wreaths to mark the occasion. I encourage everyone who can to make a special effort to attend the local Remembrance Day observances, as it offers an opportunity to hear from veterans who actually put their lives on the line for Canada when their country needed them. Of course, I have to admit a personal bias; my own grandfather was a World War II veteran, Private “Stormin’” Norman Kelly. I grew up hearing stories about “The War” from a man who never left it behind. For many years, he would wake up in the night, reliving the horrors of war and believing himself back in the heart of the conflict, surrounded by the enemy. I heard about the terrible advance through Italy
— the “creeping barrage” of artillery that flattened entire towns and turned forests into matchsticks. Many of my grandfather’s tales seemed too incredible to be believed, like his capture of a platoon of Nazi soldiers toward the end of the campaign in Italy. They were just boys, he said, children of high school age who were thrown into battle against their will for a war that they were unprepared to fight. The only dangerous one among them was their commander, a more veteran soldier from a Panzer division, who might attempt to kill his captors if they took their eyes off of him. In a stroke of genius, my grandfather ordered the man to remove his belt, so that he would have to keep his hands in his pockets to hold up his pants. For almost two decades, I thought that this was nothing more than a colourful (and false) story from a man full of stories that I found impossible to believe. I was wrong; my grandfather kept that belt buckle, and today it sits on my bookshelf at home. In Waterloo, students who wish to mark the occasion can attend just such an observance at the Waterloo cenotaph, located just off Regina Street next to City Hall. There are also small gatherings at Veterans Green, on University Avenue across from Laurier, and in the Great Hall of the SLC. You may want to show up to these gatherings by 10:30 a.m. to avoid missing the start of the event. I observe Remembrance Day because to me it is profoundly personal. I have heard veterans speak first-hand about their experiences, and it is through them that I am able to understand the sacrifices that went into securing the carefree life that I am blessed to lead today. jkelly@imprint.uwaterloo.ca
tifa han
12
Features
Imprint, Friday, November 7, 2008
A fine Cuban cigar
Through foreign eyes
courtesy david teixera
David Teixiera reporter
I
have visited many places in the Caribbean, and out of all of them Cuba is the most amazing to travel to by far. It is a country with beautiful beaches, friendly citizens, old buildings, and of course a unique culture. While some are sceptical to travel here because of its unconventional political views, I might add that it is extremely safe for any tourist. It is Cuba’s cultural differences that make it an interesting country. The political, societal, and economic structure is from the East; it has a warm southern climate; and the architecture is from Western Europe. This makes up the striking culture to which visiting students become privy — and I stress “student” because the culture has a direct impact, for foreigners, on perceptions of our own campus life. Consider, for instances, that the island of Cuba has an astonishing 47 universities with over 100,000 students in attendance. In comparison, the University of Waterloo is one of 18 main
universities in Ontario, while Cuba is only oneninth the size of our province. When travelling to this nation I learned that higher education is completely subsidized by the government — sort of like everyone receiving full OSAP without having to pay it back. It is great for your parents if they have a lot of children; in fact, my parents have four. On the flip side, a tremendous amount of their salaries is designated to taxes to pay for schooling and other social programs. When receiving a degree, Cubans must work in that field for a minimum of two years. Two large areas of study are in health care and in tourism. Both are cultural cornerstones that have great impact on the economy and the society that its citizens are proud of. On my travels, I noticed that one of Cuba’s largest cultural achievements is that they are very proud about their complete universal healthcare. To accommodate the demand, they graduate world-renowned doctors. Cuban doctors are sent around the globe, lending a helping hand to those in conflict and participating extensively in Doctors Without Borders. I was astonished
how quick and efficient the medical treatment was when my younger brother experienced a minor injury when playing sports, and it did not cost anything. Their health care is all-inclusive and is far superior to our own system. Tourism is the largest industry in Cuba by far. I realized this when I first took a stroll on one of many beaches and felt gentle sand under my feet. Imagine smooth white sand tickling your toes for kilometres on end; this is why many Canadians decide to vacation here. A tremendous amount of the Cuban graduates work in tourism and it is part of their culture. On a day adventure, I visited the Bellamar Caves, which travel for over a kilometre underground with giant crystal stalagmites and stalactites that created many caverns. It reminded me of something out of a fantasy novel. Tourism plays a large role in Havana, the capital city of Cuba. The roads are filled with an abundance of head-turning old cars from the 1950s because of the United States’ embargo against Cuba. Riding in one of these cars was a very cool experience to the gangster, Al Capone’s house. The streets are remodelled to include extravagant courtyards to give the impression that you are in Spain with creative crown moulding on the buildings. These courtyards are mainly filled with churches, markets, or dancing Cubans in traditional garments. Many cultural items can be found within the markets; I picked up a few souvenirs myself. There is an astounding amount of artwork in the streets along
with incredible lifelike statues of their heroic figures. One can get a cultural experience in Havana that is completely different from our own. Cubans take great pride in two main goods — rum and cigars. Cuban cigars are known around the planet as being the most prestigious, and made of the finest tobacco leaves. My brother and my Dad each smoked a Cuban cigar one night, which took four hours to finish. Sugar cane crops are popular on the island because they are used to make Havana Club rum. Next to beer, the Cuba Libre, otherwise known as rum and coke, is my favourite alcoholic drink, and is enjoyed by many on this island. It is said that it is their national drink and Havana Club invented it. However all other rum companies say they created it. Unlike in Canada, there is little tax on the Cuban goods and it makes it a fun place to visit. I had an amazing time in Cuba, finding it to be both a great place to visit for the culture, as well as for the culture shock — to experience how substantially different their way of life is from our own. The citizens of Cuba do not have the opportunity to acquire the same luxuries and freedoms that we have in Canada — however they are content because they are well cared for, especially in the costly prudent areas of education and healthcare. Visitors from Canada and other nations provide an audience with which Cubans can celebrate their distinction.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY! We are currently looking to fill the position of
UW CANADA DAY CELEBRATIONS EVENT MANAGER The Event Manager will manage the Steering Committee, a group responsible for the implementation of various aspects of the UW Canada Day Celebrations. The incumbent will report to UW and Federation of Students staff advisors. The incumbent will work closely with the advisors and Administrative Coordinator in the planning stages and overall execution of the event. The incumbent will prepare the agendas for and chair all Steering Committee meetings and meet individually with team members to assist in the development of their plans. The incumbent is the media spokesperson and is responsible to ensure creative, entertaining and new programming which may include stage entertainment, children’s activities, sponsorship, engaging community groups. JOB REQUIREMENTS: Experience on the UW Canada Day Celebrations Steering Committee is an asset. Proven event-planning experience. Proven communication skills. Proven experience leading committees and managing teams. Excellent writing skills and interpersonal skills. Ability to work independently. MANDATORY DATES: The Event Manager must be available June 30, 2009 through July 2, 2009, for the entirety of all three days. As well, Steering Committee meetings occur in the Spring term, once per week, typically in the late afternoon. The Event Manager must be available to meet no later than 4:00pm on those days. HOW TO APPLY: Applicants are asked to submit their resume no later than Friday, November 21st, 2008, to canadaday@uwaterloo.ca. Address resumes to Nancy Heide and Becky Wroe.
Features
Imprint, Friday, November 7, 2008
Blessed Brew
I
n England, when you want to that multiculturalism in Bungay and aftertaste. The fruity malts perfectly marry someone, you buy the the brewers are too close-minded to balance the hops, and the bitterness biggest and nicest bottle of look beyond their own region for doesn’t overpower, giving you an beer for your special someone and ingredients; for shame. Organic is easy drinking and creamy pale with leave it outside his or her front just a code word for racist. great flavour. The great taste is door. If you come back the next Speaking of racists, let’s talk matched with a great bottle; a replica morning and the bottle is outside about St. Peter the Apostle. He was of a beer bottle from America in the the door and empty, you know your not a racist. He was actually Jesus’ late 18th century, with an elliptical potential mate accepts. If the beer is right hand man, keeper of the key shape that looks like a stubby wine still in the bottle, they do not want that opens the gate to heaven. Peter bottle. to marry you. If the beer bottle is doesn’t look at the skin colour of Organic ingredients, remarkable missing entirely, it means that they the dead, only the content of their taste, and a super sweet bottle; both do not want to marry you and character — or souls. The great England, you’re pretty good at that they’re an alcoholic. This is not thing about Pete is that he is also what you do. The bran-eating, true — but if it was, I would buy the patron saint of foot problems, tree-huggin’, Jesus-lovin’ St.Peter’s my darling dearest love a bottle of Las Vegas, and net-makers among English Ale is a great beer — its St. Peter’s English Ale. Perhaps I other things. Net-makers! This is the apostle great, it’s “I want this beer will still do that the day I decide to key to getting into heaven: move to to write a new book for the Bible” propose, custom or not. Las Vegas, become a net-maker, and great. It’s so great I want to build a St. Peter’s English Ale is brewed run a lot so that your feet are always basilica, name it after the beer and in the outskirts of the sprawl- sore. One ticket to heaven, please! let a pontiff move in. I’m not just ing metropolis of Bungay, with But can drinking a beer named after saying this to get into heaven, either an un-containable population of heaven’s gatekeeper improve your — we all know that you just need over 4,000. The amount of bustle chances of getting in? I’m going to to move to Las Vegas and make in this area probably lends to the go out on a limb here and say yes. nets to do that. cosmopolitan flavour of St. Peter’s You can sue me later from hell if Ale: it’s Bungay in a bottle. All that I am wrong. Price for one (500ml): $3.35 multiculturalism, running across Heaven or not, this beer is a your taste buds! There’s the mid- delight. It has an unfiltered, cloudy Taste: 40s white farming male, and then appearance after pouring that makes Value: the mid-40s white seamstress fe- it look organic; you know, like the Reviewing yet another beer with a male, and even the mid-50s white good kind of apple juice — the shopkeep, all embodied in a beer. cloudy kind. The head is light and unique bottle: Unfortunately, St. Peter’s made the there is very low carbonation, yet Overall: beer organic, with locally grown it is surprisingly creamy. The taste all-natural hops and barley. The is hoppy and bitter, with mellow mkeast@imprint.uwaterloo.ca brewery even draws its own water earthy flavours and some subtle 40Crk_10.3125x7.5_Imprint_fin:Imprint - 10.3125 7.5 b&w 9/2/08 4:01 PM Page 1 from a 100 metre well on site. All fruity hints; a kind ofx appley-malt
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Imprint is gettin’ us some integrity . .. That is, if you can help us out!
The annual Canadian University Press Conference (CUP) — this year in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan from January 7 to 11 — gathers student journalists from across Canada to share in speakers, workshops, group critiques, and other seminars to improve their journalistic skills. Interested in going? Want to help us out?
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dnguyen@imprint.uwaterloo.ca
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Photo Feature
Imprint, Friday, November 7, 2008
Photo Feature
Imprint, Friday, November 7, 2008
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In Legion Halls the Poppies Grow Mackenzie Keast staff reporter
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hat’s the matter, don’t they teach you history in school?” Bob Berg asked me, half joking and half serious, after a story about Russia during World War II. He’s a gruff but kind-hearted man, and he loves the Legion. I was lucky enough to have him as my guide for behindthe-scenes of the Remembrance Day poppies. Tucked away in Uptown Waterloo, the Royal Canadian Legion’s energetic spirit is hidden in a dated brick building across from the Spur. Its sleepy exterior (clad with the cold, sunbleached brick reminding you of 1960s architecture) keeps hidden, perhaps protected, an annual tradition that involves more handwork than most Canadians are aware of. Indeed, the most visible aspect of Remembrance Day, the poppy, begins its journey to your lapel in a very concealed place. You feel like you have stepped back in time walking into the Legion. No, not back in time, at a standstill in time. I don’t think this place has changed in 50 years: the smell of cigarette smoke stuck to the walls and stale beer wafting from the bar, the outdated wood paneling, the small flickering TVs hanging from the ceiling. Older men huddle together around pool tables or in chairs, drinking and sharing stories. An air of comradery is ever present thorough the place, and I think lends itself to the hard work and dedication that the Poppy Committee here exhibits. Bob Berg is the Chairman of the committee, overseeing
the Waterloo distribution of the 400,000 poppies a year that are handed out in the KitchenerWaterloo region. He mentions the 900 members that make up the Legion who are supposed to take part in the poppy drive, though only around 10 or so members really put in a good effort. Among these 10 are Bob Oberholzer and Terry Sherlock, two veterans of the Canadian military as well as the poppy drive. Oberholzer has been working the poppies for 25 years, and showing me his hands, he has the battle scars to prove it. “Hardest part is not getting pricked,” he says, as he stuffs a row of poppies in a donation box. Sherlock, who is Berg’s co-chair and in charge of canvassing, assists these guys in the process of getting the poppies from the Legion, out to collect donations, and then back again. They have several methods of poppy delivery, including the mail-outs, the donation boxes in the Tim Hortons, and the canvassers. From the look of the poorly lit, humid room no bigger than a bedroom from where the Poppy Committee organizes itself, you would not think that the poppies brought much in the way of donations. On the contrary, last year the poppies raised $198,000 for the Legion, money that is then used for projects in the community that benefit veterans or the immediate families of veterans. It’s a fair sum for such a relatively small operation, but as Bob Oberholzer puts it, “[the donations were under $200,000] because I wasn’t helping out last year.”
Ethan Oblak
Ethan Oblak
Top: Overseeing the daily operations, Poppy Committee Chairman Bob Berg has a hard time finding volunteers to help him manage the annual donation drive. While participation rates are low, he scoffs at those who think it is a recent phenomenon. “Even in the ‘60s we were understaffed,” Berg laments, insisting that although he only has a handful of volunteers to depend on, the people who do help are hardworking and very dedicated.
mkeast@imprint.uwaterloo.ca
mackenzie keast
Middle: The entrance to the Waterloo Legion reminds members to wear their poppies. As Bob Berg says: “If you see a poppy on the ground, pick it up. It’s sacred.”
Top: Terry Sherlock, the co-chair of the Legion’s Poppy Committee, fills the canvassing boxes that wll later be taken by cadets who hand out the poppies for a donation to the Legion. The poppy has been used a symbol of remembrance since 1921, when fields in France during WWI would erupt with the red flower after heavy artillary bombardment because of the lime that would be distributed through the soils. Middle Right: Bob Oberholzer, a 25-year veteran of the Poppy Commitee, refills the donation boxes with poppies that will be dropped off at theTim Hortons throughout Waterloo. Oberholzer’s wife is a former UW food services employee.
Ethan Oblak
Bottom Right: Above the Legion’s poppy HQ , a flag proclaims Canada’s annual creed of remembrance “Lest We Forget.” The phrase was coined prior to WWI by Rudyard Kipling, in his poem Recessional. The poem warns the then mighty British Empire that its own destruction is inevitable:
Far-called, our navies melt away; On dune and headland sinks the fire: Lo, all our pomp of yesterday Is one with Nineveh and Tyre! Judge of the Nations, spare us yet. Lest we forget—lest we forget! mackenzie keast
Ethan Oblak
Ethan Oblak
Bottom: Boxes of both poppies and coin rolls fill the Poppy Committe’s operations room. After the donation boxes come back, the coins are rolled and stacked in plastic containers. Once all the donations have been collected, the containers are hand-delivered to a nearby bank on foot. Berg laughs, “You can imagine the site of us guys walking uphil on-foot with a couple hundred pounds of coins all stacked up.”
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Features
Books and balance sheets
Alicia Boers staff reporter
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Imprint, Friday, November 7, 2008
here are many people who decide to avoid regular part time jobs by starting their own businesses. You may not know it, or understand how they can handle the work load, but it is happening. In a previous issue of Imprint (October 19, 2007. Volume 30, issue 14) I wrote about Ben Barry, who in elementary school started a modelling agency to help out a friend. Now, at age 25, he runs an international modeling agency that prides itself on social entrepreneurship. I have met Ben Barry several times and own a copy of his book Fashioning Reality: a New Generation of Entrepreneurship, (a great read, pick it up.). Barry has intriguing stories from the business world and his experiences, and he’s so remarkable because of his innovative ideas about beauty and the modelling industry. With such a young start in the business world he understands the difficulties of being a young entrepreneur but encourages students to stay in school, get an education, create businesses and especially to be socially responsible, “attend school; you don’t have to postpone running your business or give it up altogether. You can do both, and do both well.” This is a little bit of a difficult situation — the stress and full load of school and struggling toward a degree, plus the craziness of running a company which relies on you to thrive. Barry made many difficult education decisions, trying to decide how to best run his company. After high school he decided to attend the University of Toronto to earn his undergrad degree instead of running his business full time. After U of T, Barry attended Cambridge Uni-
versity and completed his Master’s degree and is currently working toward his PhD. I have been an admirer of Barry’s work since I first met him at the Student Entrepreneur of the Year Awards in early 2007. These awards are dedicated to students who take on full time course loads and run a full time business. There are some very innovative businesses that are run by students, innovations that may only come from the minds of students. This conference, run by ACE (Advancing Canadian Entrepreneurship) “is a national charitable organization that is teaching and igniting young Canadians to create brighter futures for themselves and their communities.” A partner to ACE is the SIFE/ ACE program that students can get involved with while in school. SIFE (Students in Free Enterprise) “provides student teams with the opportunity to develop leadership, team building and communication skills by teaching the principles of free enterprise, and in turn, they are improving the quality of life and standard of living for millions of people.” This organization is specifically dedicated to encouraging students to start companies and specifically socially responsible companies. The University of Waterloo prides itself on being an innovative school and offers many opportunities for students who want the opportunity to explore business and entrepreneurship. The Laurel Centre for Social Entrepreneurship’s “focus is helping both current and potential social entrepreneurs to become more successful by helping them to unite professional business skills with their passion for social change.” What an incredible resource at the University of Waterloo to enhance a student’s interest
in business, and furthermore help students take an interest and create socially responsible businesses. According to Barry, “business can be a vehicle for social change … social issues aren’t a barrier to the bottom line; instead they can drive it.” I, like many other students at UW, found myself looking for a job for some extra cash while in university. Instead of finding a job at Subway, Starbucks or Chapters (some of my favourite places to be) I turned to business. The company is owned by my fiancée; he started Mind Over Math, a math specific learning centre, after his first year at UW. He runs a centre in our hometown of Orangeville and last September, in my third year at UW, opened a location that I manag e full time while in s ch o o l . I really love it and feel empowered wo r k i n g f o r myself trying to balance all t h e aspects of my life. At times my schedule can be quite difficult to handle and often I place work priorities above my education, — because if I don’t do something no one will. I also feel an obligation to the people who work for me; I want them to think I’m doing a good job, so I try my best. There is also an obvious obligation to the customers who expect and deserve
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the best service available. Mixingschool and business is difficult, but I love it and at UW it makes me feel like a part of something special and innovative. The university also recently implemented other resources and outlets to students who are interested in entrepreneurship. This past September, the University of Waterloo opened “VeloCity, the world’s first student residence designed to enable budding entrepreneurs to work with like-minded colleagues on mobile communications and digital media.” There have been and continue to be so many entrepreneurial innovations from a university and city that prides itself on innovation. Student r un businesses are actually everywhere and you may not realize it, but they’re thriving. This past summer the Record ran
a story of summer companies run by local students. 13 separate businesses all opened in the summer of 2008, various services were covered ranging from lawn care; organic, sweat-shop free T-shirts and bags; photography; house painting; window washing; making personal, commemorative videos; and specialty tea sales. Student run businesses are wide in range and important part or our community. One of the biggest companies in the world, Google, was co-founded by Larry Page and Sergey Brin while they were students at Stamford University. Mark Zucherberg founded Facebook while he was a student at Harvard University. Great things can come from students who have the initiative to take on school and business. aboers@imprint.uwaterloo.ca
Arts & Entertainment
Maria Karpenko reporter
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lison Burkett has a Bachelor of Math from the University of Waterloo and an MBA in organizational behaviour from Wilfrid Laurier University. As a co-op student at UW, Burkett worked in computer programming and IT. Subsequently, Burkett moved into the insurance world and worked for Dominion Life and Mutual Life. Burkett finished her MBA in 1981 and transitioned into management consulting. She affiliated with a U.S. consulting firm and did freelance consulting, and continues to do it part-time. “My husband does management consulting of a different sort and we looked for what we wanted to do as our last phase before retirement. You can only travel, get on a plane every week, for so long before you burn out,” said Burkett. While traveling, Mrs. And Mr. Burkett enjoyed visiting art galleries and felt that the Region of Waterloo was lacking in that respect. “I like cities that enjoy the river and lakes and turn towards them and really embrace them,” said Alison Burkett. So they looked for a waterfront property, found the lot at 580 Lancaster Street West, and closed the deal in 2000. However, they delayed building and instead leased a space on King Street. Six month ago, the Gallery On The Grand relocated to the waterfront property and opened its doors.
Alison Burkett appreciates art, and is both a business person and a consultant. “We take a consulting approach to art,” said Burkett. “We’re working with our clients to find art that they want and that suits their home and is different. We represent about 30 artists typically in our gallery and they are certainly our first choice for our clients but if that’s not the art that our clients want then we’ll find the art that our clients want in Ontario or other places in Canada.” The gallery is increasing Waterloo Region’s appreciation of original art. “When we started a lot of people told us Waterloo is a tough art market,” said Burkett. “This background has probably been good for us because it has taken us in the direction of what actually is very natural to do for us—consulting around art. We always knew, always believed that the impediments for buying art were that galleries intimidate people. If I didn’t grow up with original art in my home, I’m not comfortable necessarily walking into a gallery. If I’m walking in and I can’t see prices it feels like a very elitist type of gallery. We’ve seen galleries in different cities so we knew that we wanted it to be open, inviting, nobody was going to pounce on you when you come in through the door, and prices were going to be visible. The art that we carry is affordable art, there’s nothing that’s ten thousand dollars. We’ve been very successful and have placed a lot of first pieces of original art in homes, so we know that we’ve broken the barriers.
It’s just a mind set—people just never had thought of looking for art in a gallery and so if we can make people comfortable coming in and make it a comfortable process, then we can get that awareness out there.”
“When we started, a lot of people told us that Waterloo is a tough art market.” The gallery has placed 90 pieces of original art into Miller Thomson LLP in The Accelerator Building, UW Research + Technology Park. Different themes were selected for different conference rooms. A large percentage of the art is by local artists, including Eldon Leis (featured in last week’s Imprint). Miller Thomson LLP did a big open house, inviting 800 people. Many buildings that were built after put in original art—not as many pieces, but pieces in the reception hall pieces in the boardroom. “Once art becomes normal and comfortable in the business setting, then, of course, it resonates back into the residential setting,” said Burkett. Alison Burkett is on the Arts Advisory Committee of the City of Kitchener, a member of the Canadian Clay and Glass Board, and has been involved with the KW Art Gallery. “We’ve certainly had some
Imprint, Friday, November 7, 2008 arts@imprint.uwaterloo.ca
impact. We’ve made a statement by building a gallery,” said Burkett. The gallery has received and urban design award for the building.” Architecture is an important part of developing cultural awareness. “Think about what the European cities do where art is more prevalent, a part of your life, it’s on the streets, in museums, businesses and homes. As we do more of all those sorts of things, we’ll increasing the cultural nature of arts and culture in our cities.” The gallery has a very selective process when it comes to choosing their artists. “Factor number one is what we think our clients will want,” said Burkett. “Number two is we don’t want an overlap of artists. They have to be different in terms of subject mater or within subject matter there should be differences in style. For example, our landscape artists range from Eldon Leis’ realistic style to artists that have a much looser style. People have a preference somewhere along that spectrum of how abstract something is and how representational it is. The third is practical. Can we work with the artist? Which has a lot of dimensions to it. We ask for exclusivity when we represent them in this area and that becomes one of the biggest factors in their decision not to go with us. Lastly, it has to be art that we believe is good – not only aesthetically pleasing, but also technically well done.” See BURKETT, page 20
Gallery On The Grand 580 Lancaster St. W. Kitchener, Ontario Hours Tue - Fri: 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Sat: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
courtesy maria karpenko
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Arts & Entertainment
Imprint, Friday, November 7, 2008
Inspirational films the trial of a black man who has been wrongly accused of raping and beating a white woman in the
though the rest of the town would prefer to condemn him. He makes powerful speeches throughout the
are willing to do what is right no matter what. Another inspirational film is the
Gregory Peck as Atticus Finch stands up for the wrongly accused in To Kill a Mockingbird. community. The film brings to light the troubled race relations that existed throughout America – especially in the South – during the 1930s. The really inspirational part of this film occurs when Finch (Gregory Peck) stands up for a man whom he believes is innocent even
film and urges the other characters, as well as viewers, to act from their conscience. He places morality at the forefront and teaches his children how to be respectful of others even if they are different. To Kill a Mockingbird is able to inspire, thanks to its strong characters who
classic 12 Angry Men. The film is set in a jury room where 12 jurors have assembled to determine the outcome of a murder trial. One of the jurors, who is unnamed, and played by Henry Fonda, who tries to get all the jurors to vote based on evidence and testimony rather than
on personal prejudices or problems. The jurors deliberate throughout the film, with Fonda continually telling the men to vote without any doubts. The men argue and discuss their points throughout the film and eventually come to a unanimous decision. The film’s main message is twofold: to stay true to oneself as well as to argue for what one believes is right. The movie makes it apparent that humans are always marked with their own prejudices and their own problems which affect their judgements. It attempts to show that people can set these things aside to do what is right, thus inspiring viewers to put aside their own differences in real life and to do what is right. Inspirational films teach their viewers something valuable. They present a world where doing what is right is rewarded and morality is prized. These films inspire because film-goers would like to believe that they could act in the same manner as the characters, and could stand up for others and fight injustices that are present in the world. They often show viewers that seemingly insignificant people can make a difference and can arouse them to go out and try to make a difference in their own world. etarswell@imprint.uwaterloo.ca
Day one ©2008 Ernst & Young llp. Ernst & Young refers to a global organization of member firms of Ernst & Young global limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young llp is a client-serving member firm located in the Canada.
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t’s official: Barack Obama will be the next President of the United States, and honestly, I don’t think there is a better person for the job. Throughout his campaign, Obama was able to make speeches that inspired the nation and gave the American people hope for change. Now that he has been elected, that hope is more of a reality and may well create an entirely new America. While watching Obama give his acceptance speech Tuesday night, I started to think of all the films that have been created that are meant to inspire. There are many examples of this ranging from chick flicks like Working Girl, which attempted to tell women to stand up for themselves in the workplace, to coming of age films like Stand by Me. The movies that truly inspire, though, are those that do something a little more for its viewers. One of the best known examples of this type of film is To Kill a Mockingbird. Most of us had to read the book in high school and probably watched the movie after finishing the book in class. The film follows Scout and her brother Jem, and their childhood in the Jim Crow-controlled South. Atticus Finch, the father of the two children, is involved in
and you’re part of the team Day one. It’s when you have the opportunity to focus on your career, your life and your community. It’s when your experiences, ideas and opinions count. And it’s when you’re welcomed into an environment embracing diversity and encouraging inclusiveness. From your very first day, we’re committed to helping you achieve your potential. so, whether your career lies in assurance, tax, transaction or advisory services, shouldn’t your day one be at Ernst & Young?
What’s next for your future? Visit ey.com/ca/careers and our Facebook page.
Arts & Entertainment
Imprint, Friday, November 7, 2008
19
Grab a sandwich, ‘cos this’ll take a while
W
hile I admit that I know a another comic artist about closure in archive. I blame my major in religious lot of webcomics, I only comic episodes. studies for that mindset. PvP (Kurtz, read about 25 per cent This week, I wanted to bring an an- www.pvponline.com) also falls under this of the ones I have in my del.icio.us tithetic view on my previous comments category, and can be even more intense bookmarks. Mind you, that’s still 20 on comic closure and punctuation. As of a read since it was born in 1998 and to 30 webcomics that I read, but many many comic fans know, webcomics has a consistent storyline. And since I of the webcomics in my list are either can either disintegrate after a year or stopped reading it a long while ago, it’ll completed or on-hiatus comics. continue for only God knows how long. be a while until I can read all of it. I always find it a treat when some- In the latter case, an amazing library of I can’t remember why I stopped one suggests a webcomic that I’ve comic strips and pages can develop, reading it; his artwork and writing, from known about, but have never before which can be devastating for a comic what I see now, is amazing. Maybe it taken the time to read. For one, it reader who just got into the webcomics was after I learned that Scott Kurtz was makes me realize that I don’t know fray and enjoys a comicist’s work. such an asshole that I chose not to read everything about wehis comic. Then bcomics, and it also Webcomics can either disintegrate after a again, I still read teaches me that there Ctrl+Alt+Del is an appreciation for year or continue for only God knows how (Buckley, www. comics in our world. ctrlaltdel-online. long. Due to several difcom), and Buckferent reasons, I don’t ley’s both alienalways read the webcomics that people For example, I never paid any real ated himself from his audience and suggest to me. Sometimes I don’t have attention to Achewood (Onstead, www. become selfish about his work. But time to read it at the time it’s suggested achewood.com) until I joined the ranks that’s enough of my personal feelings to me, I forget to bookmark a recom- of Imprint in Winter 2007. Around that on gaming webcomics. Ben Croshaw mendation and forget the name, or time, it was around its 1000th strip, and complained about it enough in my more simply, the comic doesn’t appeal as the archive continues to grow today, mind. to my tastes. But the greatest reason I I refuse to read it because it would take I don’t mean to belittle some webhave for not reading a webcomic is that forever for me to read it in its entirety. comics when I say that a hefty archive the archive of a webcomic is so large While much of it doesn’t have an under- can alienate a comic reader. Nor am I that I would have to dedicate an entire lying storyline other than relationships, meaning to complain about reading so weekend to read it without leaving my I’m the kind of person that prefers much. In fact, I applaud webcomics for seat. Of course, this relates to what I to know the whole development of a going on so long –consistent storyline was talking about last week, where I comic through experience rather than or not. It means that the comicists are mentioned the discussion I had with starting somewhere in the middle of the doing well and many have made careers
Canadian Literature kicks ass! Alicia Boers staff reporter
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n this country we are overwhelmed and influenced by our neighbours south of the border. You need to look no further than the unparalleled interest and fascination with the U.S. presidential election. To this end, there is a huge lack of interest in our own culture — again look to the 59 per cent of Canadians who turned out to the polls on October 14. This introduction leads to my point that Canadian culture should be explored and gobbled up whenever we can get our hands on it. I have always been a sort of “pusher” of all things Canadian, and here we go
again. Joseph Boyden, Canadian, and author of the very well received and critically acclaimed Three-Day Road, as well as Through Blakc Spruce, currently shortlisted for the 2008 Scotiabank Giller Prize, is coming to Waterloo. He will be reading on Monday, November 10, 2008 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Paul Martin Centre in Wilfrid Laurier University. Three-Day Road is a very compelling novel about two Native Canadian men who volunteer to fight for Canada in WWI. The novel follows Xavier as he comes home to his aunt Niska, and tells the story of why Elijah doesn’t make it home. St. Jerome’s has a program that is much the same: The Reading series.
According to its website, “these readings are special opportunities to get inside the book – to hear writers read their own words, and speak about their own writing.” This is the appeal of these reading series and the appeal of Boyden coming to Laurier: even if you’ve never heard of him before or read any of his work, to go to a reading is a pretty cool experience, and worth coming out for. I’ve attended several readings of authors and it is a thrilling experience to hear an author read his or her own words. Boyden is sure to have interesting stories to tell about his childhood and diverse background. Go to Laurier on Monday night and hear Joseph Boyden read. aboers@imprint.uwaterloo.ca
Burkett: Diverse demographic Continued from page 17
The trend that has been evolving for the past five years in the commercial sector of visual art across Canada has been a high demand for canvases and a lot less interest in art that is on paper. Burkett gave the following explanation: “I’d only be speculating but I think the reason is that it’s hard for somebody who’s not familiar with art to tell the difference between a watercolor or pastel and a print. The works on paper don’t jump out at their family and friends as pieces of original art. Also, people get more sensitivity of glare on glass and it’s not a good alternative to do non-glare glass, as it’s poor for the art. From the other side, I don’t know that I see a lot of subject matter differences, and my span of looking at art has probably been 10 to 15 years. It’s probably been a little bit looser of a style in terms of paint strokes over the years but that’s not necessary true. It may just be due to the percentage of preferences that people have.” The gallery will undergo evolution as the Walter Bean Trail will be laid down through its property this coming spring, drawing more people.
“As the trail comes through I’d like to experiment with some Sunday openings and it’d be nice to have coffee available.” The gallery hosts functions, typically cocktail-style evening parties that range from business events, to somebody’s 30th anniversary or 80th birthday. There is an inviting patio on the side of the gallery that is used for functions in warm weather. The demographic of the gallery’s visitors and buyers is very diverse. “Classically the literature would say that the biggest art-buying years are between 40 and 60,” said Burkett. “However, we’ll also see some young couples, before kids, in their late 20s who very much appreciate original art. With regard to male versus female, it’s actually interesting: it’s not necessarily true that the wife chooses the art; sometimes it’s the husband who has more interest in it. Generally, decisions are made by the couple. We have one family in particular, but others as well, who will bring their children. One fellow in particular,visits us every few months and so we’ve known his kids over the seven years they’ve come in. When we were by WLU we had tons of Laurier students. They’d say, ‘I’ll be back.’ It’s true, some day they’ll be art
buyers. Past 60, if you’re going into a smaller space, it’s typically hard to buy art at that point. Also, it’s not just elite –that percentage of the population at the top– it’s people of all kinds that like art and will buy it.” “I’ve got a stereotype,” said Burkett. “There’s a teenager and I expect him or her to like bright modern abstracts, but I get some teenagers that will like what would be considered very traditional pieces. You can be surprised like that. You shouldn’t assume anything from anybody — what they like. Tastes are like that.” Burkett pauses and then adds, “I think more and more people are realizing that when we decorate our homes and businesses, the personality of a space comes from the choice of art, not a hundred per cent, but to a significant extent. If you choose that piece,” said Burkett, pointing at a red and black abstract, “or that piece,” pointing at a more realistic painting, “it says something different. Art causes people to talk and there is a personality. So, artists express themselves through their art, but buyers also express themselves through the art they choose to buy.” arts@imprint.uwaterloo.ca
through a spur-of-the-moment concept for a website. For the record, I support a long-running webcomic series with an in-depth storyline. I’m just upset that the only way I could put myself towards a webcomic with such a huge
At The
library (which may be still on a regular update schedule) is if I hermit myself from all forms of being. I tried it once, and it wasn’t fun. ptrinh@imprint.uwaterloo.ca
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20
Arts & Entertainment
Imprint, Friday, November 7, 2008
In rememberance of the fallen
M
ark: So this week in Art Attack, we are taking on a touchy subject. In light of the upcoming Remembrance Day services, war memorials are under attack. Marco: Kimmich, you know me: I’m no fan of war. Quite frankly, I think there’s a very fine line between solemnly paying our respects for those who have served, and masking over some difficult ethical questions with the relatively taboo pomp and circumstance that often marks the ceremonies I’ve witnessed. The issue hits close to home, too: I just saw them putting the finishing touches on the newest local war memorial that’s opposite Wilfrid Laurier on University Ave. Here’s the thing: as far as I’m concerned Remembrance Day is typically far too backward looking. I like to imagine that this wasn’t always the case. The way I see it, the Commonwealth emerged from the hell on earth that was World War I, and with
the complete clarity afforded those who have witnessed such corruption of civilization, said “Never Again”. The fact of the matter is, not long afterwards, we let them down. And I think we continue to let them down today. Maybe I’m over-simplifying the situation, or simply being naïve. I just can’t help but wonder though, every time a new war memorial goes up, which way are we really looking:
forward or back? Mark: I’m not going to presume to make any value judgments here, but art tends to be very subjective, and war memorials tend to be very touchy. Those two factors combine to create a dangerous cocktail. Having said that, let’s dive in and drink some of that cocktail. By depicting victorious warriors, as some monuments do, is war not being glorified? In contrast,
the Holocaust memorial in Berlin is an absolutely solemn and admirably abstract collection of pillars of varying heights. While seemingly benign, and perhaps not as easily understood as an obvious portrayal of realistic soldiers, the abstraction provides a filter on a perceptual level, as well as a catalyst to independent thought and reflection on the horrors of war. It does not tell you what to think.
Marco: Every time I see a memorial, I personally am reminded of a failure. Not a failure of soldiers, but a failure of our society to pre-emptively contribute positively towards the fundamental areas – education, medicine, shelter, agriculture – that produce healthy individuals, and ultimately, healthy nations. There is no debate: the absence of these factors are inevitably precursors, and provide invariable pretexts, for war. The only way to truly honour our veterans is to avoid future conflict by maintaining the spirit of “Never Again.” Mark: The bottom line is that war memorials are not inherently flawed; what they can too often be is misguided. A war memorial should encapsulate the feelings of anguish, terror, sadness, and solemnity that are always the byproducts of war, not the false glory that governments create in order to convince the populace that wars are worth fighting. arts@imprint.uwaterloo.ca
November is the new Black History Month
W
ho am I kidding? This article will replicate an amateur blog entry. But at this point, in the words of Tom Cruises character Joel in Risky Business, “Sometimes you gotta’ say what the fuck.” In all honesty, if the citizens of the United States had elected that profound, hypocritical Republimentalist John McCain, and his secretly sadomasochist, pirate hooker running mate Sarah
Palin, I would have gotten Joe the plumber himself to drown my ass in a toilet full of their deceitful bullshit before having to see their faces on Wednesday’s newspaper. This past Tuesday, like many of you, my night was consumed by two important televised events: the U.S. election and the Leaf game. That said, you can bet your left testicle, ovary, or whatever piece of junk you
have that this article was inspired by Barack Obama’s severely overdue victory. Firstly, this campaign has been going on too fucking long. I am not an American citizen or political junkie, and even I feel that I know more about Obama’s platform than Harper’s pathetic excuse of a political agenda. And sadly, after nearly four years of relentless media coverage, this political circus will never end. However, I shall digress. The words hope, change, and optimism spring to mind after hearing the name Barack Obama. But wait: are we getting ahead of ourselves? Is this change really going to happen? Will America tolerate a black president? Can America really change? I believe so. However, my dear readers, we should not forget that there is still a long road
to be traveled, and that there are many gloomy days ahead. Over the past three years, Barack Obama has been advocating for a revolution comprised of hope and sanguinity. America has finally voted for that change. With a Democrat majority in U.S House and Senate, along with the overall voter turnouts shattering old records, it is evident that Americans have faith. In the United States, merchandise ranging from hats, T-shirts, bumper stickers, to even coffee mugs have been plastered with Barack Obama’s face or name. Moreover, a CD entitled Yes We Can: Voices of A Grassroots Movement is being released to commemorate Obama’s historical presidential fun. While its intentions are most obviously good in nature, the album itself is very
The Gen X Anniversary rental sale is Coming! Buy our 12-pack pre-paid rental card for only $33.00 (tax incl.) From Nov. 23rd to Dec 3rd.
poor in terms of track selection and flow. For example, Los Lonely Boys precede John Legend, while a Sheryl Crow track is followed by a Kanye track. So on behalf of all the music snobs in Canada, it is my pleasure to inaugurate President Obama with mixtape that is worthy of hailing to the chief: 1.The Beatles – Revolution 2. Rage Against the Machine – Township Rebellion 3. The National – Mr. November 4. Talking Heads – Once in A Lifetime 5. Oasis – Live Forever 6. Daft Punk – One More Time 7. Kool & The Gang - Celebration 8. James Brown – Funky President 9. Bob Marley - Redemption Song 10. Will-I-Am – Yes We Can hcolosimo@imprint.uwaterloo.ca
“HILARIOUS... SHOCKING... CLOSE TO BRILLIANT” - SALON.COM
“A TIGHTLY WOUND, SLICKLY PLOTTED SPY COMEDY” - THE GUARDIAN
“SUBVERSIVE SILLINESS” - DENTON RECORD
A COEN BROTHERS FILM NOW PLAYING! General: $12 Students/Seniors: $10 Box Office: 519-888-4908 www.drama.uwaterloo.ca
6 Princess St. W., Waterloo 885-2950
www.princesscinemas.com
Campus Bulletin CHURCH SERVICE St. Bede’s Chapel at Renison College offers worship on Sundays at 10:30 a.m. Come and walk the labyrinth the second Thursday of each month, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. For more info contact Megan at 519-884-4404, ext 28604 or www.renison.uwaterloo.ca/ministry-centre. Parkminster United is an affirming, liberal congregation open to all, regardless of race, sexual orientation, age, ability, economic or family status. 275 Erb Street, E., Waterloo. Sunday services at 10 a.m. For more info www.parkuc.ca.
UPCOMING November 1 to 21, 2008 “End of Season” exhibition at Homer Watson House and Gallery. Three artists include J.R. Ribee, Susan Zender and Paul Roorda. For info 519748-4377, ext 233. Friday, November 7, 2008 Lessingfest: 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Contact Prof John for more info at djohn@uwaterloo.ca. Saturday, November 8, 2008 Free Psoriasis Education and Assessment session from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. will be presented by Dr. Kim Papp. Call 1-866-639-1119 to register/info or www.psoriasisconnections.ca. Rotunda Gallery presents “Missing” by Megan Sinnett with reception from 5 to 7 p.m. at 200 King Street, W., Kitchener. For info 519-741-3400, ext 3381. Sunday, November 9, 2008 Kitchener-Waterloo Camber Orchestra with pianist Sarah Ho at 3 p.m.. For info www.kwchamberorchestra.on.aibn. Thursday, November 13, 2008 Speech Communication Anniversary celebration – 6:45 to 9:45 p.m. this event is specifically for Speech Communication students, SPCOM alumni and faculty to celebrate the programs successes. Register at www.scs.uwaterloo.ca. “The Hidden History of 9-11-2001” special lecture by Professor Paul Zarembka from 7 to 9 p.m. at AL room 116. For more info www.Waterloo911. ca. November 17 to 21, 2008 UW hosts its third International Education Week. Events and activities include exchange program info sessions, volunteer opportunities, film, music, theatre and more! Check the IEW website at www.iew.uwaterloo.ca. Tuesday, November 18, 2008 David R. Cheriton School of C.S Distinguished Lecture Series with Dr. Anne Condon, UBC, DC room 1302 at 4:30 p.m. For info www.cs.uwaterloo. ca. Friday, November 21, 2008 November Swing Dance at 315 Weber Street, N. Beginner lesson begins at 8:30 p.m., then dancing from 9:15 p.m. onwards. For info www.waterlooswing.com. Fundraising for 100.3 CKMS Sound FM – your station – at Elements Night Club, featuring “Hello Beautiful/Low Level Flight/The Joys. For tickets/info Sunday, November 30, 2008 Jan Guenther Braun, UW and Imprint alumni, will be doing a reading from her book “Somewhere Else” at Erb Street Mennonite Church library, Erb Street, Waterloo from 4 to 5 p.m. For more info jan@janguentherbraun.ca or www.janguentherbraun.ca. Wednesday, April 1, 2009 2009 Autonomous Racing Challenge – build autonomous robots – race for first prize of $500 to $1,000. Early registration deadline April 1, 2009. For details www.RobotRacing.org.
STUDENT AWARDS FINANCIAL AID Make sure to pick up all your funding – loans and grants – before the end of the term. November 1 – recommended submission date for OSAP Rollover Form to add winter term to tall only term. November 19 – last day to sign Confirmation of Enrolment to ensure full OSAP funding for the fall term. Refer to our website for current loan/grant release procedures and for a full listing of scholarships and awards at http://safa.uwaterloo.ca.
VOLUNTEERING
City of Waterloo needs volunteers for summer 2009 events: Uptown Country Festival on Saturday, June 20 – entrance security/programs ; run-
ners/site patrol ; information/volunteer/CD and t-shirt sales tent ; festival operations. Email cdostle@city.waterloo.on.ca for more info. Volunteers needed – the English tutor program is in constant need of volunteers to tutor international students. Volunteering is an essential part of student life at UW. Apply online at www.iso. uwaterloo.ca. June Volunteer with a child at their school and help improve their self-esteem and confidence. One to three hours a week commitment. Call Canadian Mental Health at 519-744-7645, ext 229. Best Buddies is a national charitable organization matching students with individuals with intellectual disabilities living in the community. Hours are very flexible – compatible with busy schedules. More information contact: bestbuddiesuw@ gmail.com. Resume builder! Volunteers needed to visit people with Alzheimer disease through Alzheimer Society Volunteer Companion Program. Two hours per week with training September 23/24 evening or October 27 day or November 30 day. Call Jill at 519-742-1422 or volunteer@alzheimerkw.com. Drive. Deliver. Befriend – Community Support Connections needs volunteers to help drive seniors to appointments, deliver a lunch meal or befriend an isolated senior. Mileage is reimbursed. Contact 519-772-8787 or info@communitysupportconnections.org. City of Waterloo, 519-888-6488 or volunteer@ city.waterloo.on.ca has many volunteer opportunities. Check out the website today. Volunteer Action Centre, 519-742-8610 or www. volunteerkw.ca, has many opportunities available – visit the website or call today!
CAREER SERVICES WORKSHOPS Monday, November 3, 2008 Writing CVs and Cover Letters – 12 to 1:30 p.m., TC 2218. Registration go to the CTE website: www.cte.uwaterloo.ca/events_registration/CUT_ events.html) Work Search Strategies for International Students – 4:30 to 6 p.m., TC 1208. Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Exploring Your Personality Type, Part I – 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., TC 1112. $10 material charge payable to Career Services prior to the first session. Second session November 11, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., TC 1112. Once you have registered you will be given information on how to complete the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) online. Are You Thinking About Dental School? – 4:30 to 6 p.m., TC 1208. Thursday, November 6, 2008 Business Etiquette and Professionalism – 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., TC 1208. Monday November 10, 2008 Working Effectively in Another Culture – 3 to 4:30 p.m., TC 1208. Tuesday, November 11, 2008 Exploring Your Personality Type, Part II – 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., TC 1112. Once you have registered you will be given information on how to complete the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) online. $10 material charge payable to Career Services prior to the first session. Interview Skills: Preparing for Questions – 3:30 to 5 p.m., TC 1208. Wednesday, November 12, 2008 Successfully Negotiating Job Offers – 4:30 to 5:30 p.m., TC 1208. Thursday, November 13, 2008 Interview Skills: Selling Your Skills – 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., TC 1208. Tuesday, November 18, 2008 Career Interest Assessment – once you have registered, you will be given informaiton on how to complete the Strong Interest Inventory online. Cost: $10 materials charge, payable to Career Services prior to the session. 2:30 to 4 p.m., TC 1112. Success on the Job – 3:30 to 5 p.m., TC 1208. Wednesday, November 19, 2008 Work Search Strategies – 2:30 to 4 p.m., TC 1208. Are you Thinking About an MBA? 5:30 to 7 p.m., TC 2218. Thursday, November 20, 2008 Writing Cvs and Cover Letters – registration at www.cte.uwaterloo.ca/events_registration/CUT_ events ; 12 to 1:30 p.m., TC 2218. Getting a U.S. Work Permit – 4:30 to 6 p.m., TC 1208.
Imprint, Friday, November 7, 2008 ads@imprint.uwaterloo.ca
ONGOING
SERVICES
THURSDAYS “in conjunction with FINE 290’?” – ECH 1220 at 6:30 p.m. Free - all are welcome! November 13 – “Iron Ladies” – 104 minutes. Hilarious comedy based on the true story of Thailand’s popular top-ranked volleyball team. November 20 – “Shinjuku Boys” – 53 minutes. A docmentary, this film provides a glimpse into a transvestite bar in Tokyo.
Professional Go-For Service – don’t have time? Need a second pair of hands? Dog walking, picking up dry-cleaning, groceries, Senior Services, are just a few of the many helpful services that is offered. Call Sheila at 519-590-4103 or progo-forservice@ hotmail.com.
ANNOUNCEMENTS The Grand House Student Co-operative is a non-profit housing co-op comprised of architecture students from UW, community members and professionals. Workshops are being organized on environmental techniques, solar power, non-toxic materials and more. For info/registration visit the website at www.grandhouse.wacsa. org. Your garbage can be very worthwhile! UW Community Garden (behind Columbia Lake on north side, behind a row of tall hedges) needs any compost items that you might regularly throw away, such as coffee grounds, egg shells, oatmeal, veg or fruit bits, or garden waste such as dead leaves, etc. Meetings on Wednesdays, 5:50 p.m. and Sundays 4 p.m. For further info/ questions, e-mail cwormsbe@gmail.com.
Classified HELP WANTED
LOST & FOUND Whomever found lost credit card and turned it in September 19 please email proudy1717@yahoo. ca to receive “thanks.” $100 REWARD – for lost gold ring, has three cubic zirconia stones, black, yellow and orange. If found please contact s_grieco@hotmail.com or 519-227-0795. Cash reward up front, no questions asked. CASH REWARD – iPod Touch lost since beginning of October. Engraved on back, “Trust in the Lord and He will make your paths straight.” E-mail cheta3327@hotmail.com or call 519-572-9680.
PERSONALS Are you pregnant – have you considered an open adoption? We are a loving family approved to adopt in Ontario. Please visit our website to learn more about us and the wonderful home we could offer your baby. www.hopingtoadopt.ca.
HOUSING Attention Cambridge School of Architecture students! Live conveniently and comfortably right across the street from school in this beautifully renovated apartment. 4, 8 and 12-month leases available with excellent signing bonuses and rental incentives! Call Darlene or Joanne at 519-7461411 for more details.
Weekend counsellors and relief staff to work in homes for individuals with developmental challenges. Minimum eight-month commitment. Paid positions. Send resume to Don Mader, K-W Habilitation Services, 108 Sydney Street, Kitchener, ON, N2G 3V2. Skilled line cooks needed at The Bombshelter Pub and Fed Hall. Looking for students with cooking experience to work flexible weekday and weekend hours in a fast paced, fun atmosphere. Tons of perks included! Interested candidates please email your resume to Joey Clayfield, jclayfie@feds.uwaterloo.ca. Summer of your life! Camp Wayne for Girls – children’s sleep-away camp, Northeast Pennsylvania, June 20 to August 16, 2009. If you love children and want a caring, fun environment we need counselors and instructors for tennis, swimming, golf, gymnastics, cheerleading, drama, high and low ropes, camping/nature, team sports, waterskiing, sailing, painting/drawing, ceramics, silkscreen, printmaking, batik, jewellery, calligraphy, photography, sculpture, guitar, aerobics, selfdefense, video, piano. Other staff: administration, CDL Driver (21+), nurses (RN’s and nursing students), Bookkeeper, mothers’ helper. On campus interviews January 28. Select the camp that selects the best staff! Call 215-944-3069 or apply online at www.campwaynegirls.com.
Get Involved! VACANT – Vice-President position for the Board of Directors The Vice-President shall, during the absence or inability to act of the President, his duties and powers may be exercised by the Vice-President. The Vice-President shall also perform other duties that are prescribed from time to time by the board or that are incidental to his office. The Vice-President shall also be responsible for ensuring the full-time staff of the Corporation are properly evaluated. In the event of a vacancy in the office of Vice-President, his duties and powers shall be exercised by the Secretary.
Interested? Send your Letter of Intent by November 21 to board@imprint.uwaterloo.ca.
Science & Technology Immunization
ty i n mu
om C UW
I
nfluenza is a common respiratory infection caused by the influenza virus. In Canada, flu season usually runs from November to April. Although most people recover completely from influenza, an estimated 4,000 to 8,000 Canadians, mostly seniors, die every year from pneumonia related to flu, according to Health Canada.
G
etting the flu shot can prevent the infection or contain the severity of the illness. The flu shot cannot cause influenza because it does not contain a live virus. Furthermore, getting the vaccine protects your loved ones, especially seniors, from being exposed to this illness. Fortunately, the most common flu shot side effects include fever, fatigue, and muscle cramps.
I
nfluenza can have very serious health complications. Without vaccination, influenza can develop into pneumonia or cause myositis, exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Reye’s syndrome, myocarditis, pericarditis, transverse myelitis and encephalitis. Getting the vaccine signifiantly decreases one’s chances of these complications.
photo by Mackenzie Keast
The ugly
I
n extremely rare cases, complications from the flu shot are severe. For instance, in 2007 Richard Ryan, a B.C. resident, was temporarily paralyzed as a result of developing Guillain-Barré syndrome after receiving the flu shot, and he is not expected to make a full recovery. B.C. Centre for Disease Control insists that the chance of developing that particular disease from a flu shot is one in a million.
Gaining motivation
S
ustainability is facing many barriers when it comes to getting into mainstream society. One of the biggest barriers, however, is that a lot of people don’t know about sustainable living or just simply don’t care. Everyone at one point or another has seen the environmental advertisements, the David Suzuki quotes, or have overheard environmentalist rants about how humans have degraded the environment in one form or another. Can we really call that knowledge or awareness though? All of these ads and rants give us the how-to but not always the why. You can tell someone to turn off their lights to save energy, but they’re less likely to do it if they don’t know why they’re doing it and what the benefits are. This is where environmental education comes into play. Whether or not you believe in global warming, it shouldn’t be ambiguous that humans are living large, negatively impacting the planet. You don’t have to be an environmentalist to care about it, either. Whether you hug trees or cut them down, we all live on the same planet and what we do to it affects us everyone. You don’t need to make a career change to become educated enough to do something, either. In in terms of school, one of the best things you can do is to take an environmental course as an elective. Look for something that interests you, whether it’s a general introduction to the environment or a more specific course that seems interesting. This could be ENVS 195 — Introduction to Environmental Studies — for a general overview of environmental processes and problems. If you want to go into something more specific, you could try out something like ERS 241 — Introduction to Environmental Assessment, — for a course that is aimed more toward the planning and political aspects of political protection.
For those of you with RSS feeds (those widgets or tools that update you on specific news websites or blogs) on your desktop or your homepage (like iGoogle and Netvibes), think about adding feeds to news websites, or just check the sites daily. Some general
and intents. For example, Inhabitat might talk about solar power and its benefits in architecture, whereas EcoGeek will focus more on the specific sciences and technology behind the solar cells. If you get really motivated, take Nikoo Shahabi
environmental news websites include the Environmental News Network (www. enn.com) and Grist (www.grist.org). More specific ones are around as well, such as Inhabitat (www.inhabitat. com) for people interested in green innovation and architecture; EcoGeek (www.ecogeek.org) for people interested in green technology; and Sustainable Lifestyle Magazine (www. sdstyle.org) for general sustainable living ideas. Don’t just stick with one, as many will have different focuses
the time to read whole books on specific organisms, ecosystems, or environmental problems. They don’t need to be laden with ways people are hurting the environment to get you to start thinking about how to be more sustainable in your daily life. Becoming interested or attached to a particular environmental process or topic will, as with anything you love, cause you to want to protect it. Some examples are the book Tree by David Suzuki and Wayne Grady, or A
Taylor Helferty staff reporter
Matthew Lee Intern The end of the Mac Mini?
Tuesday, November 11, 10a.m. — 5p.m. Wednesday, November 12, 10a.m. — 5p.m. Thursday, November13, 10a.m. — 5p.m. Friday, November 14, 10a.m. — 5p.m.
The flu: The good The bad science editor
Clinic
SLC, Multipurpose Room Health Services Flu Clinic
graphic by Armed Chesnais
Anya Lomako
Imprint, Friday, November 7, 2008 science@imprint.uwaterloo.ca
Sand County Almanac by Aldo Leopold for a more biological and ecological read. If you want something that is full of adventure while taking into account the beauty and importance of an ecosystem, look into a book like Crossing Antarctica by Will Steger, about the first group to cross Antarctica coast-to-coast by dogsled. This is the best way you can start becoming a more sustainable person. It’s one thing to hear that littering is bad for the environment, and something else entirely to actually know how it is hurting the environment. Anyone will be more motivated to create change if they feel even the slightest passion for what needs to be changed. As Aldo Leopold said in A Sand County Almanac: “The wilderness gave [the teenagers] their first taste of those rewards and penalties for wise and foolish acts which every woodsman faces daily, but against which civilization has built a thousand buffers.” This quote goes through my head almost every day, because almost every day I see examples of carelessness towards the environment without realizing the impacts. We have become so safeguarded against the consequences of these actions that we’ve stopped caring. If everyone became more educated about the environment, they would become more motivated. If every engineer, mathmatician, artist, businessperson, and people from all the faculties and programs had even a slight environmental passion — even just with a single creature, tree, or ecosystem — we wouldn’t need or even want to change our entire career or education. Instead, it would inspire environmental consciousness and consideration in our everyday lives. With this inspiration, our activities, inventions, and goals would become that much more sustainable. thelferty@imprint.uwaterloo.ca
Rumours abound on the internet of the dealth of the Mac Mini. Several major European retailers are reporting that they are unable to order more Minis from Apple, despite the fact that they are still available online. The Mac Mini was pitched as a low-cost alternative to people that wanted to switch over from PC to Mac, but didn’t want to have to purchase new peripherals for their computer. Despite being pitched by Steve Jobs as the “most affordable Mac ever,” and receiving six hardware updates since its release in 2005, the Mac Mini has failed to gain traction in the marketplace, and sales have been poor when compared to the MacBook and iMac. The unavailability of the Mini to retailers can mean one of two possible things: either the Mac Mini is being updated with new hardware or it is being replaced with a similar low-cost alternative. Windows 7 includes interface overhaul
Windows 7 — the upcoming Windows operating system release — revealed its fancier side recently with a number of interface changes. The biggest change is the complete redesign of the taskbar at the bottom of the screen. Looking more like the Mac OS X dock, it’s bigger and has abandoned text captions, replacing them with large icons. There is a group of icons for favourites (like Quick Launch), running applications, notifications, and programs running in the background. The icons can be used to either switch between or launch a program. When a program is running, you can preview its open windows (for example, the various webpages open on Internet Explorer or Firefox). You can even hover over one of these images to briefly preview it. Another feature of the icons is to right-click and have a menu pop up with the program options (such as open, new document, etc.) and execute one of these options before even opening the program itself. They also plan on making those annoying notifications that pop up in the bottom corner less frequent. Finally, and most importantly, when compared to Vista, the resource footprint will be significantly lowered. Portals open between Earth and Sun
In what has been named a “flux transfer event,” or FTE, a type of cosmic chute or portal has been discovered to connect the Earth to the Sun every eight or so minutes. When these portals are open, huge amounts of particles can travel the 150 million kilometres between the Sun and Earth. Astrophysicist David Sibeck defined these connections as “not steady at all. They are often brief, bursty and very dynamic.” The formation of these FTEs consist of the magnetic fields of both the Earth and the Sun pressing against each other, reconnecting every eight minutes to form this portal, allowing particles to flow through. These portals are about the width of the Earth. FTEs can be measured, but the instruments doing the measuring must catch them forming and be on both ends of the event. Research is still being done to find out why this happens only every eight minutes and how magnetic fields act inside the FTEs. thelferty@imprint.uwaterloo.ca
Science & Technology
Imprint, Friday, November 7, 2008
23
HIV/AIDS misconceptions Wael Elsweisi staff writer
Fungi join biofuel production
The latest of efforts aimed at biofuel production has identified a fungus that can directly convert plant waste into diesel. The fungus, Gliocladium roseum, was discovered in leaves of the ulmo tree (Eucryphia cordifolia). As an added advantage, it produces diesel in its vapour state, which is much easier than liquid fuel to extract and work with. “There’s no other known organism on the planet that does this...I would guess the gas mixture itself would be adequate to run an engine,” said fungus-discoverer Gary Strobel of Montana State University in Bozeman, Montana. Interestingly, the fungus seems to employ a “green” approach in its diesel production as analysis of the vapour also identified low-molecularweight alcohols and esters that burn more cleanly than ordinary diesel. The resulting diesel also burns better than the more common bioethanol produced from sugar canes. Further studies are needed to test the practicability of the biofuel, however. “We’ll do some scale-up and fermentation, then get enough to run a little engine,” says Strobel. Details of the study are published in the journal Microbiology. B Vitamins fail in Alzheimer’s treatment
Known as the most common form of dementia in the elderly, Alzheimer’s treatment continues to baffle scientists. Much anticipated B vitamins have offered hope for their potential to lower the risk of Alzheimer’s disease or at least slow its progression by reducing amount of the homocysteine amino acid, which is found in high levels in the blood of Alzheimer’s patients. But a recent study involving 409 Alzheimer’s patients has put an end to
any remaining hope still clinging on the B vitamins. Control groups on placebos were compared with patients given high-dose supplements of vitamins B6, B12, and the B vitamin folic acid for 18 months. Those on the supplements did not perform any better on tests assessing cognitive skills and language than their counterparts. “Our results give a very clear answer that these vitamins should not be taken to treat Alzheimer’s disease. They’re ineffective,” said study leader Paul Aisen of the University of California San Diego. The study is published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Left-handedness makes you more “inhibited”
It’s true there are obvious differences between left- and right-handed people, but a recent study taking a closer look has found that lefties are more prone to inhibition and anxiety. On tests of behavioural inhibition, 46 left-handed people scored higher than 66 right-handers; women tended to score higher on tests aimed at reluctance and restraint. Compared to those right-handed, lefties and women were more likely to agree with statements such as, “I worry about making mistakes” and “Criticism or scolding hurts me quite a bit.” However, the research team also found out that all groups responded similarly to statements such as “I often act on the spur of the moment” and “I crave excitement and new sensations.” The study was led by Lynn Wright of the University of Abertay Dundee, U.K. and is published in the journal Personality and Individual Differences. welsweisi@imprint.uwaterloo.ca
— With Files from Newscientist.com and MSNBC News.
T
he question: Can you get AIDS lymphocytes, which co-ordinate often cause a transmission of the HIV from kissing? The answer: other immune cells, and it is key to virus are sexual acts, sharing drug That’s a trick question. AIDS the spread of HIV. HIV infections supplies such as needles, and birth, cannot be transmitted by any means, are life-threatening because the HIV since the child can be infected during because AIDS is the name for the cor- virus uses T-helper cells to repro- pregnancy, delivery, or through breastrosion of the immune system the HIV duce, destroying the white blood feeding. Furthermore, you cannot virus causes. Furthermore, no, you cell in the process before moving get HIV from the following sources: can’t get HIV from kissing via transfer on to surrounding cells. By destroy- kissing, spit, sweat, tears, toilet seats, of saliva, but if the lowered immune ing the body’s natural CD4 army, clothing, kitchen utensils, insect bites, defenses cause a viral disease such as herpes to develop in “The question: can you get AIDS from kissing? the HIV-infected individual, The answer: that’s a trick question. ” and blood sores occur in the oral cavity, the risk of spreading HIV increases slightly. Contrary to the individual becomes vulnerable donating blood and simply interacting popular belief, it is virtually impossible to infections and bacteria, possibly with the infected individual. Fortunately, there is a local AIDS to get HIV from kissing via saliva, progressing to AIDS. However, the because in order to be in danger of body still attempts to fight against information and support center, the contracting the disease, saliva would the HIV virus before symptoms oc- Aids Committee of Cambridge, Kitchhave to be drunk in large volumes. cur, therefore it can be years before ener, Waterloo and Area (ACCKWA) Are you feeling confused already? If HIV can be detected. This is the that provides dependable resources, so, you may not know all you need exact reason annual HIV tests are client support and free, anonymous to know about HIV and AIDS, so recommended for sexually active HIV testing. They are located on individuals. keep reading. 105-67 King Street East, Kitchener. AIDS is an incurable disease. Once ACCKWA provides an anonymous First of all, it’s important to distinguish between HIV and AIDS. HIV an individual in infected, the HIV HIV testing clinic every Thursday (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is virus always remains in the body. 4-7pm, which is provided free of a virus that breaks down the body’s im- This is why maintaining safe sex charge. ACCKWA also provides a mune system, while AIDS (Acquired practices at all times is important to Safe Point Needle Exchange program, Immune Deficiency Syndrome) is a HIV-free-living — according to the which provides new syringes, filters, progression of HIV, coined typically ACCKWA website, 1/4 of 62,000 alcohol swabs, tourniquets, cookers, when a person develops a serious Canadians living with HIV/AIDS vitamin C, abcess kits, information infection in association with HIV, or don’t know it yet. and referrals to reduce the spread of The body fluids that carry the HIV the HIV virus through injection drug if medical tests show serious damage to the immune system. As such, if a virus (and therefore make transmis- use. They also take in used needles for person dies of AIDS, it is not actually sion possible), are blood, semen, safe disposal. of the HIV virus – it is because of pre-cum, menstrual blood and breast the failure of the body’s capacity to milk. Logically, the activities that most alomako@imprint.uwaterloo.ca defend itself against infections. HIV infects cells in the immune and central nervous systems, especially the white blood cells which defend the body against infections and bacteria, consequently weakening the immune system. Among the white blood cells are CD4 (T-cell)
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Sports & Living
Imprint, Friday, November 7, 2008 sports@imprint.uwaterloo.ca
Volleyball victories Matt Hayes reporter
T
his past weekend marked the beginning of the men’s and women’s volleyball seasons with a pair of home games against McMaster and Guelph. The game Friday against McMaster acted as the Warriors’ highly anticipated home opener and welcomed hundreds of eager volleyball fans to the Physical Activities Complex. On Friday, October 31, the men’s team took on the task of attempting to topple the number two team in the country, the McMaster Marauders. The men in black and gold managed to take the first set in front of an enthusiastic crowd 25 – 22. Unfortunately the home team was unable to sustain that same momentum and lost the following three sets by a mere 10 points combined (26 – 24, 25 – 21, and 25 – 21 respectively). The Warriors, although coming up short in the game, were led by strong performances by Aaron Dam, who managed 10 kills, and Tyler Vivian, who along with 12 kills stepped up on the defensive end with 13 digs. The following day the Warriors battled the visiting Guelph Gryphons in hope of rebounding from the hard-fought loss the previous day. Waterloo came out of the game slowly and soon found themselves looking at two sets to zero disadvantage. The boys would not lie down and die however, and rallied with tremendous effort in the third, fourth, and fifth set to eventually record their second win of the season. The Warriors came away with the victory behind great efforts from Andrew Thorpe who recorded 44 assists and Ian Pappel who was perfect in recording 10 kills on 10 attempts. After the split this weekend, the Warriors find themselves at
2 – 1 and right in the hunt for a playoff run. Their next action comes when they travel to London on November 8 to take on the Western Mustangs. The women’s team took to the court with a lot of new faces thrown into the lineup. The team graduated a number of seniors from last year’s OUA regular season champion team including UW’s Female Athlete of the Year Gaby Lesniak. This created an opportunity for a number of players to step up, and with last year’s OUA Champion McMaster coming to the pack, this game had an exciting buzz about it. The Warriors managed to take the first and third sets behind strong play from third year power hitter Kat Flanagan who recorded 18 kills and 19 blocks. Also stepping up for the Warriors was first year power hitter Laura Klein, finishing with 12 kills and 19 digs. The Warriors dropped the second and fourth sets leading to an exciting fifth and deciding set which was dominated by strong play from the home team leading to the second win this season for Waterloo. The women’s team took on the Guelph Gryphons on Saturday, November 1 in an attempt to stretch their unbeaten season to three games. The Warriors lost the first set by an extremely close margin of 25 – 23 but rebounded to sweep the following three sets to chalk up another victory in the 2008 – 2009 season. Fourth year right side hitter Bojana Josipovic led the way for the ladies with 15 kills while Kate Flanagan put forth another strong effort in recording 11 kills and 20 digs in the game. The women’s next game comes when the team travels south to compete against the always strong Western Mustangs in an attempt to remain unbeaten in this season full of high expectations.
photos by matt hayes
Above: Bojana Josipovic, fourth year right side hitter, recorded 15 kills against the Guelph Gryphons, contributing to the women’s team’s threegame unbeaten streak. Right: Players of the men’s volleyball team win Academic All Canadians, recognition of varsity atheletes who have achieved at least an 80 average in school over the course of the year. From left to right: Aaron Dam, Ian Pappel, Cameron Dunning, Alex MacIntosh, Matt Snyder, Brett Campbell.
Athletes of the Week
vs UOIT Ridgebacks 2:00 pm UW CIF Arena
November 8
LI S T
Warrior [M] Hockey
4th year, Biomedical Sciences Ashburn, ON
LI V EN E
M
LI S T
M
UND SO F
November 9
Volleyball
100.3
2:00 pm UW CIF Arena
Jara Brunt
LI V EN E
100.3
vs Queen’s Gaels
UND SO F
November 8
vs Guelph Gryphons 7:30 PM UW CIF Arena
Aaron Dam Volleyball
Registered trademarks of Boston Pizza Royalties Limited Partnership, used under license. © Boston Pizza International Inc. 2005
IMPRINT | NOVEMBER 7
4th year, AHS Masters Grimsby, ON
Sports & Living
Imprint, Friday, November 7, 2008
Chance or skill?
25
Warrior Wrap-up Game Recaps
A
s I was passing through the SLC last week, I was approached and asked to fill out a questionnaire on gambling. The very first question asked: “Can you make money through poker?� Of course I eagerly checked the “yes� box, but the girl handing out the forms politely informed me that I couldn’t win their prize if I checked the “yes� box. Despite my best protests, it appeared they wouldn’t accept the “yes� answer. However, that conversation got me thinking: What criteria do we use to cut off a game of skill from a game of chance? While it’s true that the vast majority of poker players will lose money in the long run, it’s also true that the poker player has complete control over their destiny in the long run.
the majority of the faceless mass that feed the winning players. Each play they make is not part of a longerterm strategy to maximize expected value, but instead they’re living in the moment and hoping they catch a whiff of lady luck to win a big pot. To them it’s like playing a carnival game — little payoff but a big thrill when you happen to be in the right place at the right time. The pro players on the other hand treat it like a cold, hard business. They’ve built up a sizable bankroll to minimize their risk of ruin. They store the hand history of every hand they’ve played online. They use software such as Pokertracker to analyze every one of their playing tendencies and they use Pokerace to display the tendencies of their opponents.
The truth is most people lack the temperament or patience to become a poker pro and will probably be regulated to the faceless crowd of losing players.
Women’s Volleyball
Women’s Hockey
Friday, October 31 Waterloo 3 McMaster 2
Saturday, November 1 Guelph 3 Waterloo 0
Saturday, November 1 Waterloo 3 Guelph 1
Sunday, November 2 Brock 3 Waterloo 0
Men’s Volleyball Friday, October 31 McMaster 3 Waterloo 1
Men’s Hockey
Women’s Basketball Wednesday, October 29 Waterloo 52 Laurier 49 Saturday, November 1 McMaster 63 Waterloo 59
Saturday, November 1 Laurier 6 Waterloo 2
Saturday, November 1 Waterloo 3 Guelph 2
Upcoming Games Women’s Hockey
Women’s Basketball
Men’s Basketball
Saturday, November 8 vs. Queens, 2:00 p.m.
Friday, November 7 At Queens, 6:00 p.m.
Friday, November 7 At Queens, 8:00 p.m.
Sunday, November 9 vs. UOIT, 2:00 p.m.
Saturday, November 8 At RMC, 2:00 p.m.
Saturday, November 8 At RMC, 4:00 p.m.
Men’s Hockey Saturday, November 8 vs. Guelph, 10:00 p.m.
Badminton With over a hundred thousand hands in my pokertracker database, I’ve managed to carve out a statistically significant win-rate. This isn’t an attempt at self-aggrandizement; it just means that those who study the game and have self-discipline can come out on top. Poker inherently resembles a world marathon circuit — there are many challengers but few winners. Unlike the many other casino games where the player is pitted against the house in a fixed losing proposition, poker pits player against player in what is essentially a game of math that you do rapidly in your head. There are a bevy of strategy books out there that give players a fundamental understanding behind the odds and statistics of poker. There is no reason why even a neophyte player can’t eventually rule the mid-stakes games if they hold a copy of David Sklansky’s Theory of Poker. For the players who don’t devote themselves to the study of poker theorems and statistics, they become
SPORTS If you like sports and watching sports games,
The meticulousness of these pros is what allows them to stay at the top. Prahlad Friedman, Phil Ivey, and John Juanda are among the players that have used “new school� analysis to become poker celebrities. Coming back to the original gambling questionnaire that asks “Can you make money through poker?� the answer is a resounding “yes.� However, I’m not condoning people blowing through their OSAP money to try to become the next Phil Ivey. The truth is most people lack the temperament or patience to become a poker pro and will probably be regulated to the faceless crowd of losing players. For them, poker should be treated as an occasional game of wagering. But for the skilled few, poker is decidedly not a game of luck or wagering; it is a carefully planned business. The truth is, poker is stuck in a weird continuum between a game of skill and a game of chance.
Saturday, November 8 At Western, 12:00 p.m. Sunday, November 9 At Windsor, 1:00 p.m.
Men’s Volleyball Saturday, November 8 At Western, 2:00 p.m.
University of Waterloo Campus
Sunday, November 9 At Windsor, 3:00 p.m.
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Saturday, November 8 vs. Ryerson, 10:00 a.m.
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26
Sports & Living
Imprint, Friday, November 7, 2008
Warriors Victorious
The Warrior men’s hockey team managed to triumph 6–3 over visiting Windsor. Sean Roche scored his first and second goals of the season in the win. Saturday was another chapter in the Battle of Waterloo as Laurier managed to beat the Warriors 6–2 in a game that saw 121 combined penalty minutes. Warrior goals were scored by Chris Ray and David Edgeworth. The Warriors next action came when they travelled to St.Catharines to battle the Brock Badgers on November 4.
photos by matt hayes
Warriors men’s volleyball win one of the two weekend games, battling to a 2–1 victory over the Guelph Gryphons.
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The golf team poses with their silver medals from the annual Women’s Golf Invitational tournament held at the Cambridge Golf club. Humber College won gold but the Warriors were able to beat out Western for the silver medal. From left to right: Shenea Hasson, Heather Wogden, Katelyn Inlow, Allison King, Chrissy Gazley, Tiffany Terrier. Absent: Emily Gateman, Rachel Rauws.
courtesy carla munch-miranda
The Warriors drive off into the sunset after their excellent performance at the Cambridge Golf club.
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Comics & Distractions
Imprint, Friday, November 7, 2008
Crossword
By Kate Kennedy
Maggie Clark
When should we stop “Remembering?”
Across
1. Hopefully yours “runneth over” 5. Go with the flow
“Never, so history does not repeat itself.”
10. Sulk
Abdul Rahman Ghannoum (left) and Hesham Fahim (right)
14. “Don’t bet ___!” (two words)
3B chemical eng. and 3B electrical eng.
15. Euripides drama 16. Have an edge against
“If we had a time machine to go back to stop the wars, then we could forget.“ Cecile Yang 2B life sciences
17. Come from ___ 18. New Zealand Aboriginal 19. Reduced instruction set computing
“It’s not only about a sacrifice of lives but also a strong voice about values that we should remember.”
20.You might want to keep enemies in these (three words) 23. Brown ermine
Markus Vonach
sociology exchange student
24. Sea men 28. Pilgrim’s destination
“Never. We should always remember. Lest we forget.“
32. Pertaining to human excrement 33. Time in history
Rita Agyekum
3A health studies
36. Alacrity
“Never. It gives us a directional sense of where we were to where we are in terms of morals.”
39. Little ones 41. Broadcasting (two words)
Punit Dave
42. ___ gin fizz 43. A strong wind blowing from the opposite of northeast 46. Calligrapher’s purchase 47. Provide, as with some quality 48. Blind followers 50. Without infection (or form of life) 53. Challenges 57. Policy of the U.S. from the failure of the League of Nations through Dec. 7, 1941 61. “Good grief!” 64. It’s what’s “burning bright,” for Blake 65. Cathedral recess 66. Stag, rooster, tom, etc. 67. Found at the end of exocrine glands 68. Breakfast, lunch or dinner 69. Addict 70. Ships 71. Functional group derived from a simple aromatic ring Down 1. Barbecue fuel
2. Ill-suited
33. On the ocean, for one (two words)
3. Baby grand, e.g.
34. Thugs
4. Small river
35. Short composition for instructional use
5. Bullets, e.g.
37. Core
6. Like Beethoven
38. Arborist’s concern
7. Commotions
40. More ignorant
8. What perimeters, periarteritis, and perinatal have in common
44. Physicist who discovered cosmic radiation
9. Another (Russian) term for Boreal Forest 10. Mythical footless birds 11. Japanese sash 12. Secretion from inflamed tissues 13. “Yadda, yadda, yadda” 21. Big first for a baby 22. High fidelity
45. Make over
Dear Sexy Ecology Man, I sit behind you everyday in class, so I can hear that exotic accent of yours clearly. I love how you are brave and manly enough to ask insightful questions in class. Don’t think I didn’t notice you last lecture as you flexed your bulging biceps towards me. I got mad love for you baby. Maybe sometime we could study the evolution of homo-erectus together. Your biggest fan, xoxo “I saw you at The Dears concert at Starlight, we’ve never officially met but I recognize you from SPUC last year. Before the encore I went to introduce myself but you had already left. Ever since then I’ve realized you’re in most of my classes. I really want to say hi but I get shy, or I’m just too oblivious too realize when you’re sitting right next to me in our 278 tutorial. Wake me up durring 255 and we’ll chat about the new album.” - anonymous To the girl sexy latina that sits next to me in philosophy 201. Why deny this sexual tension between us anymore? I want you and I know
1A mechanical engineering
“Never.” Ryan Degorter
graduate student
55. English exam finale, often 56. Inhale
26. Atomic number 86
59. Care for
27. Aerodynamic
60. Eye part
29. Bird most vulnerable to the West Nile Virus
61. Cousin of an ostrich 62. Kind of station 63. Bar order
you want me. So let’s turn this meaningless flirting into something real, hot, and passionate. I already call you girlfriend, lets make that official ;). P.S. my other girl is totally down for this so let’s have the raunchiest threesome ever! From the sex-driven dreamer. Dear Barbie, I saw you shakin’ your thang at Feds on Halloween. Is your heart plastic or is there room for your Ken in there? Your blonde hair and your inability to bend your elbows and knees stole my heart. Can I brush your hair and undress you anywhere? ;) Common Barbie, lets go party. (ah ah ah yea). Ken. To the azn girl with the purple streaks in her hair, I see you on campus here and there, mostly DC. You are such a tease with those sexy purple streaks in your hair. I’m diggin your style, come dig mine. To the blonde curly haired girl who often frequents the ML Caf on Tuesday nights.Your laugh and smile are contagious. I would love to treat you to a donut although I already think that you have a sweet glaze. I saw you dressed up as tinkerbell on Hallowe’en and you have been soaring through my mind ever since.You light up a room, please light up my life. Wave back.Wink back. Stare back. Your Captain “hook-up” Hey Turnkey Girl, D.R., for years now we have had a kind of strange relationship that I can only decribe as an incredible friendship and I thank you for that. Whever I have needed to turn to someone or I am feeling down and need a boost, I get that from you. I love your stories, your adventures and your life is so interesting! I hope I have give you as much as you have given me and -- just to let you know -- if you even want something more from our special friendship... let me know, I would be excited to turn what we have into so much more! -A.B.
“Never.” Lydia Lane-Smith
54. More mature
editor@imprint.uwaterloo.ca Your rant about the “stupid driver” who stopped for you is one of the most self-centered things I’ve ever read/heard. I highly doubt the mere 15 seconds that it likely took the two of you to sort out the situation was enough of your precious time to ruin your day to any significant degree... worst case scenario, you recognize their effort, smile and move on. So, instead of sounding like a miserable prat, why not acknowledge that someone put YOUR priorities ahead of their own, that a driver noticed you waiting to cross the road, and that someone made the effort to help a stranger — even if it didn’t work out perfectly for YOU. If the world needs ANYTHING, it’s more people being considerate of each other. Except maybe YOU don’t need or want that... in which case:“Get the fuck over yourself.” Yours Truly, Annoyed with people like you.
2A legal studies and business
52. Pizzeria order
58. Against, opposed to, our next to (Southern dialect)
31. Aggregate
“Never.” Lauren MacKay
51. Specks
25. Eyes
30. Ice cream holder
2A science
49. Canal site
October 31 solutions Dear Annoyed Pedestrian,
27
You know me! I lust and pine for you. Stop by when I’m working, it’s right across turnkey.We will have an amazing night together if you give me the chance. -BG Missed it? Type it out. Don’t look back while pressing send. You know where it’s at: distractions@imprint.uwaterloo.ca
Sudoku
Photos by KATE KENNEDY
Maggie Clark
28
Comics & Distractions
POSTSCRIPT
Imprint, Friday, November 7, 2008
BY GRAHAM MOOGK-SOULIS
IMPRESSION, BY JIM & LAN
LOOSE SCREWS
RUNAWAY RINGTOSS
BY KURTIS ELTON
BY GEOFFREY LEE & SONIA LEE
IN THE WEEDS
BY MATT FIG, BRANDON FORLER, AND KEEGAN TREMBLAY
BY PETER N. TRINH