Questions about high school? The answers to questions we’ve all thought of at least once. more on pg. 6 Thornhill Secondary School’s student newspaper
issue three
spring 2012
EYE OF THE TIGER Valentine’s week events at TSS!
WILL YOU BE MY VALENTINE? TSS during Valentine’s Week was filled with lunch time activities including karaoke during lunch and matchmaker results! Poster credit to Sammy Linetsky. nately for some, heartbreak. specifically designed for Valen- tine’s integrated the idea of school oke, a change from the usual spirit Celebrating the traditions As always, BOSS presented the tines’ Day caught the interest of spirit on Valentine’s. week music to a recognizable voice, for the romantic week! school with Valentine’s week, an many. Aside from annual traditions, and the song dedication, finding BY SARAH SHIN annual tradition. The most popular Karaoke was another big part of something new that was intro- that perfect song that exactly exNEWS CONTRIBUTOR attraction of the week was the Valentine’s Week this year. Fea- duced was song dedication, which pressed what you meant. alentine’s Day, or, as some Matchmaker, a computerized sys- tured throughout all lunches dur- turned out of be a great innovation. Valentine’s Day is not complete wish to call it, Singles Aware- tem that gives students a personal- ing the week, the karaoke system Also taking place during lunch, without a bit more spirit: dressing ness Day, was yet another ized list of his or her top ideal ro- gave students the chance to sing for anyone could pretty much allot a in unison of pink and red. This chance for TSS to show some mantic matches based on their their friends, to serenade partners, certain song to a special someone spirit added more colour to our school spirit. Whether one was responses to survey questions. The to mourn their own loneliness, or in front of the whole cafeteria. The hallways and a bit more excitement single or not, there was no question highly addictive and interesting even just to test out their own vocal idea behind it was that songs speak to Valentine’s week. that love was in the air: the week questions had many anticipating abilities. BOSS presented a some- louder than words. All in all, although our familiar was dominated by resplendent the results, which they would re- what romantic event each lunch. Valentine’s Day spirit week TSS Valentine’s tradition has come roses, savory chocolates, heart ceive on Valentine’s Day. This sen- Karaoke, again, being one of changed our bland typical lunches to an end, there’s always next year filled confessions… and unfortu- sible and sophisticated software, BOSS’s traditions during Valen- to active and dynamic, with kara- to look forward to!
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For how much longer? Enough is enough In the gaze of fearful reproach, we must not be pressured to stand down. BY JUSTIN CHUN OPINION CONTRIBUTOR
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ym class: the favourite part of my day. As usual, the boys in my class were ecstatic to play some sports. As we started to change from our school clothes to the PE uniforms, I began to notice that one of the boys was being verbally abused in the corner of the room. As I listened to the bullies’ patronizing comments intensify, I realized that they were far worse than amusing jokes: their mocking insults were degrading racial slurs. I was astounded by the sea of taunting faces, enjoying some humorous comedy before the highlight of their day. Nausea. That’s what I felt from their sick and inhumane derision. Conflict clouded my mind. Was I to be a bystander and pity this victimized boy for the skin that he was wearing? Or was I to deliberately
end the oppressive harassment? The answer was quickly clear in my mind, and I took action by intervening and stopping their terrorizing put-downs. I learned that bullying is an indirect pattern, which targets and singles out minorities who seem weak and susceptible to harmful torment. The victim who was bullied had no one to stand up and speak on his behalf, towards the injustice that he faced. Silence is tantamount to tacit tolerance. As some of you may know, this year marks the 13th anniversary of the high school shooting massacre at Columbine High School. The shooting, which occurred on April 20, 1999, was the handiwork of two teenage boys who simply could not take it anymore. 13 people were killed and 21 were injured during the shooting. However, bullying is not a thing of the past. Just recently in Chicago, a Chinese boy was beaten brutally by six assailants, who repeatedly SEE ‘STOP BULLYING’ ON PAGE 9
INSIDE this issue NEWS
1-5
ISSUE & OPINION
6-9
FROM THE EDITORS
10
SPORTS
11-14
ENTERTAINMENT
15-19
FUN AND GAMES
20
DECA provincials Check out the awards TSS DECA received at the provincial competition! SEE PAGE 3, NEWS
The Jeremy Lin legend! It’s no wonder everyone is obsessed with Jeremy Lin right now. SEE PAGE 11, SPORTS
Rocksmith review It’s like Guitar Hero and Rock Band, but better. You can actually learn how to play a guitar! STOP THE BULLYING! What good, if any, can bullying have on anybody?
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By the students, for the students—STRIVE ‘12 An opportunity to meet new people and learn new skills. BY SAMMY LINETSKY NEWS CONTRIBUTOR
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he York Region Presidents’ Council (YRPC) annual student leadership conference is just around the corner. This year’s student-led initiative, STRIVE ’12, is being hosted from April 26th to 29th at Camp Muskoka. Approximately three hundred students from thirtyone high schools will come together for a rewarding opportunity that spans four amazing days. It has been almost seventeen years since this student initiative began, and it has proved itself as an empowering experience for all students that attend. The people that attend are not just students either, but outspoken leaders in their respective schools and community. The conference breaks down into four groups of people: YRPC Executives, Skillbuilders, the Aegis, and Delegates. The selection process for Skillbuilders and Aegis takes a tremendous amount of time and effort by the YRPC Executives due to the large number of applicants. Thornhill Secondary School is proud to be sending Partow Etemadi as a Skillbuilder and Kevin Chan, Lily Robbins and myself, Sammy Linetsky, as an Aegis. Seven delegates from each of the thirty-one high schools across the York Region District School Board are also sent, who are usually chosen through the student council of the school. B.O.S.S. has just finished conducting interviews at Thornhill. If you are just hearing about this
LOOKING FOR A PLACE TO BELONG? Not only does YRPC help you develop your leadership skills, you have to chance to meet other students like you! now, it’s too late to attend this year, but next year is full of opportunities. The 2012 conference is titled STRIVE ’12, or “Students Taking Responsibility in Various Environments”, to promote the overall goal of increasing the student voice. The conference is an experience that
you can’t just explain to someone, and as a former delegate, I can safely say that it was a weekend that I will never forget. Most of the time is spent in session groups, where topics like leadership, group dynamics, and communication are discussed. You become very close
with this session group as well as your cabin group, and create new friendships. This all adds to the amazing feeling that the conference brings to the table. The rest of the time is spent in activities like a dance, a talent show, and listening to various motivational speakers.
After the empowering weekend ends, it is the overall feeling that Delegates, Aegis, Skillbuilders and YRPC Executive come home with that lets them use these newly developed leadership skills. YRPC: It’s not just an event, it’s a lifestyle.
What is love without Valentine’s Day? Haddaway’s iconic song, chocolates, roses… It’s that time of year again! BY ADELE CHUI EXECUTIVE EDITOR
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es, Valentine’s Day has come and gone once again. Like any other unattached teenager on the face of this planet, seeing dozens of overly romantic couples and cheesy love messages can bring even the strongest of us to our knees. After all, for a single lady or gentleman, a holiday revolving around romantic love is more than just a little over the top. However, for the world and even T.S.S., Valentine’s is a great excuse to celebrate, wanted or not. Here at Thornhill, B.O.S.S. dedicated an entire spirit week towards
the spirit of love, with colourthemed days and various events at lunch. Like every year, the highlight of the spirit week was the Matchmaker. The game of Matchmaker brought plenty of laughter to students, pouring over colourful slips of paper and eagerly discussing their results. This would be the one bright spot in a less than spirited Valentine’s celebration. Dressing in red, white, or pink as a spirit day did little to alleviate the greys that accompany many a winter wardrobe, and many students chose to ignore or completely refuse to celebrate Valentine’s. Love-themed karaoke during lunch would be a great idea in principle, but with only a few students from each lunch opting to sing, there was little to be done to encourage Valentine’s spirit. Instead, B.O.S.S. members did their
best to serenade the students with both new and old songs. Kudos to B.O.S.S. for trying their best to bring some Valentine’s spirit to Thornhill. Red Cross and Thornhill Sponsors a Child also did their best to bring some festive cheer, selling roses and candy grams respectively in support of their corresponding causes. Though historically, Valentine’s has been one of the most popular holidays, you would not see it simply by looking at Thornhill. Worldwide, Valentine’s Day is one of our culture’s most commercialised and loved holidays, but its history dates back to something with just a tad more meaning. Formally known as St. Valentine’s Day, the origin of both the date and its patron saint are shrouded in mystery. While we do know that February is a month that has always been
associated with romance, the stories surrounding St. Valentine are conflicting. Some say he was a pastor, secretly marrying couples during a time when marriage was outlawed. Other stories detail a jailed St. Valentine who sent love letters to a girl signed ‘From your Valentine’. All the stories emphasised St. Valentine as a sympathetic, heroic, and romantic figure. St. Valentine would become one of the most popular saints in England and France, and by the 17th century, Valentine’s would become one of the most popular holidays in Britain. It was already common for friends and lovers to exchange small gifts and letters as tokens of affection, and today, ready-made cards and emails have made it easy for everyone to be showered with Valentine’s wishes.
Of course, not everyone is utterly in love with Valentine’s. For many, Valentine’s simply highlights their lack of a partner, resulting in the corresponding holiday ‘Single Awareness Day’. Not everyone is glued to their significant other, and Valentine’s Day only exacerbates the situation. There really can be too much chocolate, pink hearts, and sparkles, and SAD is an excellent way to vent. For those of us who really cannot stomach the overwhelming amount of love of February 14th, focusing on yourself can be a decent way to spend a day normally dedicated to couples. Whatever the case, be it that you are single or madly in love, Valentine’s Day has and will be a day to remember. Even if it is as dreaded as the lyrics “What is love?” playing in the background.
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All suited up and ready to compete: DECA provincials Once again, DECA members make Thornhill proud at the provincial competition! BY BILL ZHOU NEWS CONTRIBUTOR
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hornhill Secondary School took home four plaques and twenty-two medals at the 2012 DECA Provincials. After many months of learning and practice, all that hard work by TSS DECA members finally paid off. TSS DECA
members competed against 5200 other DECA members across Ontario at the Toronto Sheraton Centre to win top awards in several categories. The air of the Sheraton hotel was filled with excitement from the moment TSS DECA members arrived on Sunday night, February the 12th. But equally powerful was the fervor of those members taking the subway down at 7:00 AM on Monday. All that energy carried through -out the 2012 Provincial competi-
tion to make for outstanding results, once again showing the strength of the TSS DECA Chapter. Congratulations to the following contestants for getting awards in their categories: Oral Medal winners: Beata Grobman, Jake Greenberg, David Bryckine, Denizhan Uykur, Crystal Chen, Ben Ang, Daniel Voloshin, Michael C. Chan, and Jennifer Lee Exam Medal winners: Jake Greenberg, Denizhan Uykur, Ben Ang, Michael C. Chan, Jennifer Lee, and
Anna Premyslova Top 10 Medal winners: Jake Greenberg, Anahita Dehmoobad Sharifabadi, Jessica Wu, Denizhan Uykur, Ben Ang, Michael C. Chan, Jennifer Lee, Anna Premyslova, and Rachel Fong 1st Place Plaque – Denizhan Uykur, Anna Premyslova, and Rachel Fong 2nd Place Plaque – Jake Greenberg, Michael C. Chan, and Jennifer Lee Following the competition, DECA members, after having Demonstrated Excellence, Celebrated
Achievement by gathering for the TSS DECA party on February 21st, where DECA members enjoyed the rewards at the end of a long and challenging journey. Now, TSS DECA looks forward another year of excellence and achievement in 2012-2013, complete with a brand new team of Executives: Sammy Linetsky, Anahita Dehmoobad Sharifabadi, and Daniel Voloshin! So get ready to have fun and win some more next year!
SO FUN IT’S ALMOST DECADENT The DECA provincial competition at the Sheraton proved to be both fun and learning experience for the competitors. Photos courtesy of TSS DECA Executives
A look at another group of TSS winners: the debaters
DEBATE, DEBATE, DEBATE! Debate club members pose for a picture with their awards that show their well-deserved success at the regional competition. Photo courtesy of Ms. Chaudhary
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Twitter’s new Nintendo announces Wii U censorship policy A new hope for the game developer and friends BY ISAAC TAM NEWS CONTRIBUTOR
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he Nintendo Wii, released in 2006, is something truly outdated in the gaming world compared to rivals Sony and Microsoft and their latest home consoles, the Playstation 3 and the Xbox 360. This is something that is very apparent if you have played on these consoles; the Wii simply lacks in every aspect: video capability (not HD compatible), processing speeds, internet/Wi-Fi connections, gaming library, and extra things like being DVD compatible. These things add up, making Sony’s and Microsoft’s consoles much more enjoyable to play for the average gamer. Even those who don’t game will likely choose the PS3 or Xbox 360 over the Wii as the limited game library is more suited towards younger children. It seems all doom and gloom for Nintendo but really, it isn’t. Gamers actually have high hopes for this company, especially since the Wii U was announced last summer at E3. E3 (Electronic Entertainment Expo) became the site of much excitement when Nintendo’s next home console was announced, the Wii U. Belonging to the eightgeneration of gaming consoles, the Wii U looks to be the coolest console in gaming capability and general coolness. Many of the Wii U’s specs are currently unknown, but what is known brings it easily at par with the Xbox and PS3’s graphic capabilities by making the transition to 1080p HD. Not only that, its processor is designed by IBM, using the same technology found in Watson, the supercomputer featured in several Jeopardy specials. Some sources actually say the graphic capabilities far surpass those of the Xbox and PS3. Although the Wii U boasts improved specs, the controller for the Wii U is what makes it truly stand out from the crowd. First off, it is not like any other controller seen before for a home console because of its 6.2” centre touch screen surrounded by two analog sticks, the regular X, Y, A, B buttons, D-pad, L/ R shoulder buttons, mic and cam-
era. An internal accelerometer and gyroscope is built in as well as a stylus for other uses. The controller is wirelessly connected to the console, much like how a Wii remote is connected, and can be used in ways that yet again revolutionize the way we play games. At E3, several demos were on display to give an idea as to what this controller is capable of. For example, there was a demo in which players were to throw shurikens at tree trunks passing by on the TV screen. Players had to hold the controller flat in one hand perpendicular to the TV and with the other, swipe the image of a ninja star on the controller screen like how a ninja would when flinging lethal shurikens towards a target. Almost like magic, the shuriken ends up from your hand to the TV, hitting a tree if you aimed well. Another cool demo was in which players were able to play golf (à la Wii Sports) by placing the controller on the floor directly by one’s feet and pointing a Wii remote straight down to it. Not only will the Wii remote connect to the console but it will also be detected by the controller as shown by this demo. When swinging to hit the golf ball, the controller can detect this motion and the golf ball could be seen flying off into the distance on your television screen. This is just another way this controller could be used. A graphics demo was shown that took some footage from the Wii game The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, where Link enters a room and a giant spider appears, and converted it to stunning HD quality while also enhancing the colour schemes and details to the objects in the video. As the video played, players were able to interact with the footage using the controller, changing the lighting of the scene from night to day and vice versa, seamlessly switching from one to the other. As the lighting changed, subtle differences could be noted as the room suddenly grew darker or lighter. You have to watch it to know what I’m saying so check it out on the web. One last demo involved having to use the controller to block incoming suction tipped arrows fired from three pirate ships by holding the
controller up like a shield. The neat thing here is that only one ship is visible on the TV screen, the other two ships are visible when you look through the controller screen beside your TV, left or right, creating almost an extension to your viewing area. This feature can also be used in other games with multiple players where the player with the tablet controller is able to view things that the other four cannot, becoming almost like a game master. The Wii U is capable of handling four Wii remotes and two tablet controllers and is backwardscompatible with all Wii games. Another neat feature is the ability to play exclusively on the tablet controller. That’s not all; not only will the game display on the controller, but a family member or friend who wants to watch something else on TV will be able to watch a show uninterrupted by you playing on a different TV input. Besides the great hardware, the number of games that will be available for the Wii U is rather extensive as it is gaining a lot of third-party support with a greater emphasis on games more mature than the usual Wii palate to satisfy the individual (the “U” in Wii U is meant to show a greater focus on “you”). Games announced so far include Batman: Arkham City, a new Tekken game, Assassin’s Creed, Darksiders II and a new Super Smash Bros. game which will also be available for the 3DS, another eighth-generation platform. Telling from these titles, there is a much greater target for the mature gamer, the market Sony and Microsoft have been selling to for quite a while. Currently, not much else is known about this console; the price is unknown, release date is pending (potentially coming out this 2012 Holiday season) and how well this console will be received is anyone’s guess. The demos shown at E3 are only the tip of the iceberg of what this console is capable of with a great amount of raw power backing up this amazing system. Developers showed much enthusiasm for this new console as it opens many creative doors for different types of game play. Excited? You should be, ‘cause this is a new and innovative way of playing games.
#INTENTION Twitter’s CEO, Dick Costolo, says the policy is for transparency. Twitter faces criticism over largely been a negative one among activists from around the world. The controversial decision. Chinese activist and artist Ai Weiwei BY TIAN GAO has threatened to quit the social NEWS CONTRIBUTOR networking service. Many other n Thursday, January 26th, users of the site have also stepped 2012, Twitter announced it forward with threats to boycott it, would be enforcing a new and a “#ResistTwitter” campaign policy that gives the company the has been launched as well. Forbes ability to censor tweets and Twitter even published an article titled accounts in specific countries. Dif- “Twitter Commits Social Suicide”. ferent countries have different laws Many believe that this decision regarding speech over the Internet made by Twitter is unfair to citizens and digital file sharing, so this pol- of countries with oppressive reicy allows Twitter to selectively gimes, where many users and withhold content from users de- tweets that are critical of those repending on their country. If a gov- gimes or have radical ideas could ernment notifies Twitter of a tweet potentially be blocked. There have also been man dethat breaches a law in that country, users in that location would be un- fenders of the new policy, especially able to see the withheld content or among media personalities. Some argue that selective censorship user account. Twitter is a microblogging and means that the site will be able to social networking service that al- block certain pieces of content in lows users to share information with specific countries rather than globother users through posts of 140 ally removing the content altocharacters or less called “Tweets”. gether. Paul Smalera of Reuters has Among other functions, users of the written that the omission of Tweets service can follow other users to in certain countries serves as a rereceive notifications of their tweets. flection of those countries and their It was created in March 2006 by the governments rather than a reflecfounders Jack Dorsey, Evan Wil- tion of Twitter. The company itself liams, and Biz Stone. It has now has stated that it still remains an grown into an online empire, best advocate of free speech and certain known for tagging through hashtags laws must be respected for the ser(#) and massive reactions to trend- vice to continue existing and opering topics and world events. As of ating in certain countries. Many 2011, a billion tweets are being sent have also praised Twitter’s public a week. Users include celebrities honesty and transparency about the and public figures like Lady Gaga, decision. The subjects of online censorship Justin Bieber, and Barack Obama. With this recently made decision on and oppression have become exselective censorship, the company tremely relevant lately, especially will not be filtering Tweets, but with global uprisings and phenomrather, evaluating and possibly ena such as the Arab Spring, which blocking them based on requests. A is largely accredited to social media user in another country trying to and communication of information view a censored Tweet or user ac- via the Internet. Twitter’s comprocount will see alert boxes that say mise between law and freedom of “Tweet withheld” or “@Username expression has evoked a suitably grand debate in the online world. withheld”. Online response to this news has Whether or not Twitter made the been overwhelming and quite ex- right choice remains open to interWII WANT TO PLAY The successor of Wii has improved numerous aspects that will attract the attention of gamers. treme at times. The reaction has pretation.
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Anti-Putin protests in Russia: a call for a re-election Russian citizens furious with the reportedly rigged elections. BY SANDRA SINAYUK NEWS CONTRIBUTOR
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eavily censored by the Russian government, the protests against Prime Minister Vladimir Putin erupted after the December 4th elections. An estimated number of 50,000 people faced temperatures as low as -20°C in over 50 cities as a result of the United Russia Party being accused of fabricating election results. In central Moscow, citizens with handmade signs shouted “Russia without Putin” while tens of thousands of police officers and troops were arranged to keep the protests in line, arresting 600 to 1000 citizens. "I demand the release of political prisoners and new elections," a small business owner by the name of Svetlana agrees with fellow protesters. The Russian government, however, has expressed no desire to
once again examine the votes. Few details regarding the protests are being disclosed, partially because the previously privateowned Russian channel NTV recently fell into the hands of a large oil corporation with close ties to the government. Putin has announced that the protests were influenced by Hilary Clinton’s prompting of nongovernmental organizations in Russia. He describes the protesters as “pawns in the hands of those who want to destroy the country”. Writer and ex-parliamentary researcher Ekaterina Zatuliveter, however, claims that Western politicians had nothing to do with the protests, “None of us voted for United Russia, nor, in many cases, have we met anybody who did. And that was a problem.” Regardless of the protest catalyst, journalists comment on the citizens’ behavior as “a show of public discourse unseen since the fall of the Soviet Union” and “the largest ERUPTION OF PROTESTS Tens of thousands are gathered in Moscow to protest against the rigged elections. opposition rally in years”.
The Syrian revolution as of now
CONTINUED CHAOS Having begun in early 2011, the Syrian people still continue to call for democratic reforms with protests in the streets withstanding the attacks of the armed Syrian forces. But, on March 15th, 2011, the ties resulted on that day. Claims attention, claiming that Israeli slowly growing, and on February Fighting for their freedom people of Syria marched into the have been made that soldiers who troops were firing at demonstrators. 10th, an RPG and Mortar attack tarand peace in Syria streets of Daraa in massive num- did not open fire on protesters were The government continued with geted embassies in the major city of bers, in a protest to overthrow the shot themselves as punishment. By raids of major cities claiming that it Aleppo, killing nearly 300 people. BY RYAN KHURANA NEWS CONTRIBUTOR current totalitarian regime. Like April 29th, the government had was targeting armed gang regions, International sanctions have ince 1946, Syria has been an their neighboring states, they started to send tanks and snipers to while most believe that the target been placed on Syria, and the US independent country, but de- wanted to break barriers and get keep people off the streets. In the was the protesters. has shown their support of the promocracy has been shaky there closer to democracy. The goals of epicenter of the protests, Daraa, the The conflict is ongoing and the tests. As of Ramadan in 2011, the at best. In 1949, a CIA supported their protests were clear from the electricity and water were shut off Syrian people are gaining little sup- Arab League suspended Syria’s allicoup led to a military rule. A series beginning: democratic reforms for and the government began to con- port. Few armed conflicts have fea- ance as the Saudi government beof coups occurred over the next 20 the people of Syria, more jobs, re- fiscate all the food that citizens had. tured major retaliation from rebel gan to openly criticize the atrocious years until in 1970, the Defense lease of the political prisoners that Things looked bleak for the rebels. groups, and as of February 5th, 2012, human rights abuses that have been Minister, Hafez al-Assad, took over were being detained, and an end to By May 6th, violent retaliation had the UN claimed that the lives of seen throughout the uprising. Iran and became president. He re- the reign of President Bashar al- started from the rebels with the gov- 6,200 civilians and defectors have initially put their faith in the Syrian mained unchallenged in this posi- Assad. These protests lasted for just ernment reporting 11 casualties as a been taken, and a total of 7,200 government, but has conceded that tion until his death in 2000. His under a month when it was seen result of rebel fire. The government casualties have been reported. Over both parties have faults in this disparty, the Ba’ath Party, was then that the government wasn’t going to began to detain and torture protest- 80,000 people were detained as of pute, and peaceful negotiations transferred to the control of his son, help and the Syrians needed to ers, including a 13 year old boy, November 2011. Some concessions need to be made in order to protect Bashar al-Assad, who still reigns as make a far more apparent and vio- Hamza Ali Al-Khateeb, who was have been made: tax cuts, abolish- the people of Syria. The UN has president. His party is the sole po- lent message to the state. detained, tortured, had his genitals sided with the protesters, though as litical party in Syria and is able to By April 8th, 30 people had been severed, and then was shot dead. ment of the Supreme State Security of yet, military intervention has rule its people with an iron fist. The killed by police in an effort to crack The Syrian government denied alle- Court, and the release of 5,994 been ruled out by foreign powers. human rights atrocities in Syria down on protests. On April 15th, the gations of torture as the protests detained political prisoners, but The current future for Syria is were some of the worst in the Arab government restricting protesters continued. The Syrian government this was not enough to make up for definitely not pleasing, but there world and it seemed as if no one from entering the streets led to tried to use the anti-Israeli beliefs of the horrors that the Syrian people still may be a light at the end of the tunnel. could do anything about it. shootings in the streets; 88 casual- the Syrians to divert the protesters had faced. Armed retaliation is
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Eight things you were probably wondering about high school academics University websites are the place to find more information about specific programs and whether or not they accept AP credits. The course codes under which your marks are listed on OUAC will end in “E”, indicating that you took them at an AP level (eg. SBI4UE), but whether or not taking the AP course itself factors into admission decisions is often anyone's guess. Many universities have very vague policies surrounding this, as AP is often only taken into consideration after admission is granted and course selection begins. For example, with the exception of McGill, most universities do not explicitly ask you to list the AP exams you plan to take for course planning purposes. Regardless, very few people join AP for the sole promise of a university credit they may or may not receive... Take AP if you like challenges, genuinely enjoy the subject and want to explore course concepts in more detail—this in itself is often reward enough, as cheesy as that may sound.
But even if you weren’t wondering about them, eight things you might want to know. BY JENNIFER LEE OPINION CONTRIBUTOR
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he prospect of graduation will do two things to you: it will force you to think about what you're doing with the rest of your life and it will make you re-examine the choices you've made throughout your high school career. Having just finished the bulk of university applications, I've realized that there are so many things I know now about high school that I wish I had known from the beginning. Hopefully, this article will clarify some of the misconceptions surrounding high school courses and university applications, and demystify certain topics that I myself had questions about in the past. Of course, I'm no education expert, and not all the advice in this article will apply to you. 1) What is the gifted program, actually? Everyone knows about it, but because the actual “divide” takes place in grade 3, the differences between regular and gifted courses at the high school level are rarely ever discussed. Curriculum-wise, course material is actually almost identical, with a few very minor differences in pace and depth here and there. Supposedly the main benefit to being in a gifted class is a grouping of “like-minded” students with similar methods of learning that can feed off one another; what exactly comprises this “likemindedness” is hard to define, considering there will be a variety of learning styles and personalities in every class regardless. If you think gifted might be a better fit for you, discuss it with your guidance counselor. Due to the similarity in course material, it's not uncommon for students to switch into specific courses as their teachers see fit. Universities rarely ever take gifted or non-gifted courses into consideration in the application process, as grade nine and ten marks are almost never required, so don't go into it thinking you'll get brownie points from U of T (a common misconception amongst niners). Most universities will never see your IEP. 2) Why should I try in grade 9 and 10 if the marks don't “matter”? Fact: everything will matter in some way or another. Disregarding marks altogether, the knowledge base you build in the first two years of high school will probably determine how well you do later, in grades 11 and 12. Even disregarding course fundamentals, the study skills you form early on will definitely carry through to upper years and beyond. When it comes to forming good habits like time management and homework completion that help with your sense of responsibility, earlier is always better. Unfortunately, that means the “loaft-now-and-pull-it-all-together -in-grade-11-when-marks-count” plan is prone to backfire sooner or later.
MOVING UP A GRADE High school may seem baffling at times, but this article will help you excel in high school! 3) Why is time management so submitted to Ontario universities Most of the additional course matethrough a common website rial covered in AP is taught in important? Probably the most important (OUAC), where extracurricular preparation for the AP exams taken lesson I'll be taking away from high activities are not factored in at all. in May of your grade 12 year. The AP exams are standardized school is that academics is all a OUAC only includes your grade 11 game of give and take. It's no secret and 12 marks along with technical and internationally-recognized, that you need to put in time and information like your mailing ad- meaning for example that all math effort to get the returns you want, dress, citizenship, etc. Some pro- students writing the AP calculus but what students often forget is grams only require the OUAC ap- exam in North America will be writthat the time you put into studying plication, while other programs ing the same test. The exams are is not always proportionate to what require additional supplementary marked by a third party organizayou get out of it—especially when it information to get to know you tion, and the mark you receive on comes to marks. Putting in an extra better; this is where things like the AP exam is completely indehour of work to complete a big cul- sports and other ECs might make pendent of the course mark that shows up on your school report minating project might bump you an appearance. Supplemental requirements will card. AP exams are scored on a from a 70 to an 80, but it might take an extra two hours to get from the vary from university to university scale of 1-5 based on a percentile 80s to the 90s. It might even take an and from program to program. For placement (that is to say, how well extra four hours to close the gap example, all Queen's programs you do relative to all the other between a 90 and a 95. In other require at least one additional PSE students writing the exam). For words, achieving your goal mark (personal statement of experience), example, a mark of 60% may still takes increasingly more time the whereas other programs like Uni- translate to a level 5, if it is one of closer you get to it, meaning time versity of Toronto’s life science do the top marks received in comparimanagement plays an increasingly not require any additional informa- son to other students. The general tion whatsoever. However, it's also assumption that your course mark important role. Whether or not you think it is important to remember that aside will drop if you take AP is true in worthwhile to put in the extra time from the entrance scholarships, some cases, but not always; keep in to achieve your goal mark is ulti- nearly all other scholarship boards mind that many AP class averages mately your call; your dedication is would like to see some degree of are historically similar or even usually what will determine the school and community involve- higher than their university-stream outcome of any given project or ment in your application or essay counterparts. Though AP may assignment. Learning how to responses. Join activities that you mean adding an extra 2-3 hours budget your time is arguably the really are passionate about, not just onto your weekly workload, it is still most important skill you will ac- ones that you think will look good very possible to maintain a similar quire as a high school student. Try on your resume. Keep in mind that average. For those of you considering to allot x amount of time each night the two are not mutually exclusive. to finishing your work. Work and Don't forget that extracurriculars taking the full AP course load, keep take breaks in defined blocks of are an amazing opportunity to de- in mind that grade 12 AP biology, time. In an age of 9gag, endless velop out-of-class interests and chemistry, and advanced functions scroll and to-the-second twitter gain real-world experiences that will always be run in the same sefeeds, try to keep internet might give you a better idea of what mester (the first semester of grade “multitasking” to a minimum. Be- you might be interested in pursuing 12), to prepare you well in advance for the exams in May. Be aware that cause when it's 1 am on Monday career-wise. this might mean a disproportionnight and you're scrambling to finish three essays and a supplemen- 5) What is Advanced Placement? ately challenging first semester in In grade 11, pre-AP courses are your grade 12 year. tary, you will undoubtedly see the irony in the two hours you spent offered in English, functions, biolreblogging Procrastination Panda ogy, and chemistry, as prerequi- 6) Advanced Placement: What's in sites to their grade 12 AP continua- it for me? on Tumblr. (Guilty!) tions. They are generally a lot more Most Canadian universities rec4) Do universities really care challenging, fast-paced, and con- ognize AP credits based on the tent-heavy than their university- level you receive on the final exam. about my extracurriculars? This is probably the one ques- stream counterparts. Try to make Some universities, such as U of T tion I had the hardest time getting a the decision to take AP prior to and McGill, will allow you to skip straight answer to before applying grade 11 and follow through as best first year courses if you receive a to university, because it really all you can, though you can always level 4 or 5 on the AP exam for that depends on the program. Marks are drop AP courses after grade 11. course.
7) What do I do to study in the States? If you have your heart set on studying in the U.S., start preparing as early as possible to take your SATs or ACTs. Most students take the SATs at least twice throughout high school, and different universities have different ways of interpreting the results. Some will average your scores, while some will take the best of the lot. There is a plethora of free information on SAT prep and U.S. universities in the guidance office and online. Additional supplementaries will likely be required of different U.S. programs. American schools look at a lot more than Canadian schools do, as they consider marks (potentially from all four years), test scores, extracurriculars, courseload, class rank, teacher recommendations, and more. It's imperative to do your own homework on requirements, as they will vary from those of Ontario universities. 8) How do I figure out what I want to do after high school? Determine what you're good at, what you enjoy, and find areas where the two overlap. Take full advantage of the wide variety of resources at our disposal here at Thornhill—teachers who genuinely care and guidance counselors who are always available to give meaningful advice. Do your own research online, and frequent student forums like those on www.studentawards.com, where forum threads are divided into the academic fields you may be considering (law, health sciences, commerce, etc). On forums such as this, older students can provide you with first-hand information regarding everything from campus life to specific program requirements. Ask friends, family members, and teachers about the fields you are considering, as word-of-mouth is invaluable. Fortunately, there are so many resources and opportunities at our disposal—the trick is to recognize them and use them to the fullest.
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spring 2012
Has India gone overboard in its censorship of the Internet?
EYE OFTHE TIGER
page 7
The truth behind modern gamers Spoiler alert: they don’t fit the stereotype. BY SHANE SUKERMAN OPINION CONTRIBUTOR
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he video game industry is one that has skyrocketed over the last couple decades. From revolutionary beginnings like Pong and Pac-Man to the intense shooters like Call Of Duty and Battlefield, video games have quickly become one of the defining features of our generation. With the innovation of online play, gamers are able to play with each other without being in the same room – or even in the same country. As a result, games such as the aforementioned shooters, as well as MMOs like World Of Warcraft, was a big time hit. The idea of being able to play with your friend without having to fight over who gets to be Player One was tantalizing to audiences, and so more and more people began to play video games and earned themselves the title of gamer. We’ve all seen the South Park episode Make Love, Not Warcraft, and I’m sure many can understand how fascinating it can be to do something like create a medieval order with your friends. As the gamer population increased, a stereotype developed
around it (as stereotypes often do when a new group appears). The word ‘gamer’ became synonymous with an image of an overweight, unclean, lonely individual that has been shunned by the world to such an extent that the only solace they can get is through playing video games. Let’s make this clear – a gamer isn’t somebody who relies solely on video games to get them through the day. A gamer is somebody who enjoys playing video games for recreation, not someone who sits in their basement all day and loses themselves in virtual reality. Not to say that this never happens; every stereotype has to start somewhere, and with games like The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim on the market it’s very easy to get lost in another world. However, like most stereotypes, this can’t be said for all gamers. I have been playing video games since I was two years old, and while I do enjoy getting lost in the magic of another world, I don’t by any means fit the image of someone who sits in a basement all day. Getting lost in a game is just like getting lost in a good book – except you get to be the main character. There is not a person in the world who doesn’t once dream of saving
the universe, or rescuing the damsel in distress. With the right game in hand, video games can appeal to anybody. Young, old, boy, or girl, it doesn’t matter. Every person can find something for themselves in video games, and that is what makes it such an easy thing to get caught up in. The idea that all gamers are homely, geeky-looking basementdwellers is flat out wrong. Most of the people who believe that are people who have never tried video games, and who judge without their own information. If anything it is because of the people who judge others without giving them a chance that any gamers feel the need to escape reality. A word of advice to anybody who thinks that if you play video games you become a geek – try them. Try your hand at the awesome experience that these pieces of technology can grant you. Join the ranks of the army and fend off an invasion of your country. Become a world famous musician, an assassin, or even a thieving raccoon. Delve into another world where you can choose who you are, where you can decide how the story goes, and where you can be the hero. I can guarantee you won’t be disappointed.
Are organic foods really “organic?” FREEDOM Indian activists protest against the censorship on the Internet. The infridgement of the the right to order and block content on sites. The most recent set of IT right to freedom of speech rules from 2011 states that websites must remove content within 36 unacceptable! hours if it is suspected that it conBY GRACE TO tains any violent, obscene, or harmOPINION CONTRIBUTOR ful information that could potenhe Internet has become one of tially offend a person or national the best mediums that can be security. Although Google was bound by used to share information freely with others. However, with the legalities of the situation, the the increasing amount of content law that allows the ability to block that the Internet is displaying, the the flow of information over the number of people who are con- Internet will harm the freedom of cerned about the limits of Internet speech on the web. India has clearly overstepped its boundaries sharing is also growing. In February of this year, a court by interfering with the sharing of order caused the world’s largest information online. An open Interweb search engine, Google, to re- net is vital for the technological move some controversial content world to grow, as well as protecting about a certain Indian civil lawsuit. the people’s freedom and right to The online content contained infor- expression and knowledge. Besides India, many other counmation surrounding Indian political and religious leaders. This legal tries, such as China and South Koaction is one of the most recent rea, have chosen to monitor and censor certain information in about censorship of the Internet. The offensive content was not online media in their national doonly ordered to be taken off of mains. Technically, censoring soGoogle, but also from a few other cial media is done so to prevent popular social websites, such as corruption and plagiarism, as well YouTube, Blogger, etc. Google was as protecting corporations and the only able to remove the offensive privacy of the people. From another content from the Indian domains, perspective, Internet censorship and could not be removed from also prevents individuality and private websites; the banned infor- opinions while protecting the govmation can still be accessed online ernment’s secrets. It is unethical to carry out this from anywhere but in India. Although the exact details of the in- vicious type of procedure this way formation are unknown, the minis- because no one should have the ters of India claim that the content right to stop the flow of information negatively affects the Indian gov- for the people. It seems that instead of protecting the minds of the peoernment. Recently, this reluctant action ple of India, the Indian government made by Google has led to many is trying to brainwash their citizens disagreements. People have said from forming their own individual that this type of censorship violates opinions. This is a direct violation the right of information and knowl- to the human code and Google edge. This is further supported by definitely should not have comArticle 19 of the Indian constitu- plied with it. The country of India has a detion, which clearly states that there will be freedom of speech and ex- mocratic type of government which entitles their citizens to express pression. However, India’s Information their views on any sort of matter, Technology Act of 2008 gives them including religion and politics.
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Labels can be misleading, but when it comes to your health, you should (and can!) always play it safe. BY SALLY KIM OPINION CONTRIBUTOR
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here are many people who spend more money to purchase food items labeled as “organic”. But are these foods really “organic?” By definition, “organic food” refers to foods that have not been exposed to any chemicals and are grown 100% naturally. They range from organic vegetables, organic milk, and organic fruits to even organic baby products. For example, when you purchase a gallon of organic milk from your local grocery store, you would expect the milk to come from happy
cows who haven’t been exposed to any antibiotics, hormones or pesticides. But unknowingly, you may be getting milk from cattle that has been fed genetically modified cattle feed. So how can we be sure of what is really organic? Who decides which strawberries and apples can be labeled as “organic”? Since Canada trades a lot with the United States, it is important to look at the USDA, the United States Department of Agriculture, which decides which products can be labeled as being organic. The USDA carries out routine inspections that produce foods labeled organic by the Department. However, 15 of 30 third party inspectors have been placed under probation after an audit. With cases like this, and so little knowledge on the topic, it is hard for average Canadian families
to determine what foods are really organic and what foods may not be as organic. It will always be an individual’s choice to choose whether or not they would like to purchase food labeled as organic or be satisfied with cheaper food items that may not be labeled organic but tastes the same. Instead of fussing over buying organic foods, why not get some exercise that will certainly guarantee you to become healthier? How about growing your own food and vegetables in your backyard so you can be sure that it’s 100% organic? At the end of the day, if you are concerned about whether or not you’re buying organic or non-organic food products, you’ve already made the choice of buying healthy food such as vegetables and fruits rather than heading to the junk food aisle.
GOT MILK? Organic milk that is. It is hard to figure out whether these “organic” products are actually organic.
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page 8 EYE OFTHE TIGER
Mari-ju-wanna smoke pot? Liberals in favour of the legalization of marijuana BY IRINA SVERDLICHENKO OPINION CONTRIBUTOR
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e it resolved that the Liberals are in favour of the legalization and taxation of marijuana. Despite the inevitable shock of this statement, one must first consider the potential economic boost and general profit increase that comes with the passing of such a bill, to understand the logic behind the Liberals’ feelings. During the Liberal’s January biennial convention in Ottawa of 2012, 75% of Liberal delegates voted in favour of the legalization of marijuana, in addition to the taxation of the production of marijuana all while enacting strict penalties for trafficking, importing and exporting marijuana and impaired driving. To me, it seems as though the Liberals while seemingly enveloped in their good intentions to halt illegal sales of the substance, are too far-gone on the left side of the political spectrum to realize that their simple solution of accepting the situation for what it is only to avoid feeling that they maintain no control over it whatsoever is quite obtuse. With that said, there may never be a full frontal elimination of illegal trafficking, but attempting to
create stricter penalties may mean that the party won’t have to relinquish complete control over their nation. During the convention, party leader Bob Rae was quoted saying, “Frankly, the status quo doesn't work and that's what needs to change”. He continued by stating, “The Liberal party is saying that the current laws do not work and that we need a new direction.” Rae believes that legalization of marijuana will reduce illegal trafficking of the substance. In addition, he also looks to reduce the number of individuals imprisoned for possessing large doses of marijuana- sometimes over 40 000 incidents each year- who will be met with amnesty once released. While the general idea of the whole debacle is to promote awareness and prevention for marijuana, it can be safely assumed that Rae sees a large cash flow tied in with this bill, starting with savings of approximately $150, 000, 000 annually in invested court fees for marijuana users. In addition, the taxation of the drug will in all increase revenue for the government, and in short have a positive economic effect. While that’s good and lovely, I feel as though Rae, while preaching to a congregation of people tired of battling with this issue, is
not focusing enough on public safety. Marijuana has been called a gateway drug for teens , who are now 266 times more likely to develop addiction to harder drugs like cocaine after trying marijuana. To Rae and his colleagues, the potential profit seems to be worth the inevitable downfall of individuals who, due to greater accessibility to the drug, may abuse it to the extent where their brains’ natural chemicals will be affected. This may allow them to retain memory of previous drug use, in turn making them more vulnerable to the use of harder drugs later in life. Currently, 60% of teenagers in drug rehabilitation programs are primarily in treatment for marijuana-related reasons. Abuse rates for marijuana are higher than those for alcohol, cocaine or heroin among teenagers. Can we really justify legalizing marijuana when there is so much more at risk? The government seems to feel that the legalization of marijuana will in some way decrease its use in Canada. Personally, I don’t believe that Rae has the right to burst open the door to an already overly abused drug like marijuana; Canada is simply not ready for weed incountry. Until then, it’s just no necessary. So, to the kids of today: Save the lot, don’t smoke pot!
THE LEGALIZATION OF WEED? The Liberals have proposed the plan, but is Canada ready for this new problem?
spring 2012
McGuinty tuition rebate is a Band-Aid solution
MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE Is this new tuition plan worth it at all? The $420 million program would generally come with the intention of providing financial aid to does little to solve key is- students who are in need of it. However, this rebate seems to cater sues. also to families who can afford to BY RICHARD WONG OPINION CONTRIBUTOR pay their students’ tuition fees. n January 1, 2012, Dalton Among the requirements for eligiMcGuinty’s Liberal govern- bility, the student’s parents’ inment put their 30% tuition comes combined cannot exceed rebate program into action. The $160,000. Come to think of it, supposed intention was to provide $160,000 is more than twice the financial aid for those that need it, average Ontarian family’s income but taking a look at the fine print, of $70,000. Unless the family has to one might think otherwise. support a multitude of children, The rebate entails an $800 grant which very few do today, students per semester for university students coming from such backgrounds are and a $365 grant for college and in little to no need of financial aid certificate students, up to twice from the government. each year. The program overall is A student from an affluent family expected to cost $420 million and is with an annual income of $159,000 the single most expensive commit- that meets the rebate’s other rement that the current Liberal pro- quirements for eligibility can benevincial government has taken, in a fit from the rebate, but a financially time when McGuinty also has to disadvantaged student that does handle a $16 billion budget deficit. not meet superficialities like the In order for this rebate to work, the rebate’s age restriction cannot. government must cut its spending That a well-off student can benefit in other sectors, which could mean from the rebate while a needy stuservice cuts or wage freezes for dent gets nothing is inequitable those on public payroll. and reflects the rebate’s failure to Aside from the financial con- achieve its primary goal which is to straints that the government needs provide financial relief to the unto overcome in order to support derprivileged. this program, many students who The key issue here is that there are part of the group a tuition re- are individuals whose intention is bate would benefit most are ineligi- to have a post-secondary education ble. Students entering a post- but cannot due to financial consecondary program more than four straints. These limitations exist in years after completing high school, the first place because of the high with part-time or full-time jobs or cost of education; Ontario has the applying for private programs are most expensive tuition fees out of all tossed aside and not even con- all of the provinces and territories sidered for the rebate. in Canada. Many students, even Why is this an issue? First off, with bursaries and grants, have to one can be financially disadvan- take out loans which stunt their taged with the intention of studying ability to get off on the right foot at a university or college but still be after they graduate. Instead of startdenied the rebate due to their age. ing a family or buying a house, they The truth is, not all fresh high have to deal with the debt they acschool graduates can afford post- crued during their years in universecondary tuition. Some potential sity or college. students might have to work for one McGuinty’s tuition rebate is a or more years before they start their Band-Aid for a bullet wound; it studies. For each year they work, ignores the needs of some of those that is one less year that they can who need it most, it provides benepossibly receive benefits from the fits to those who don’t need it at all, tuition rebate. and most importantly, it does not Furthermore, students who provide a solution for the main choose to work while studying are issue of high tuition. Not to menunlikely to qualify, since one of the tion that the key issue still stands: requirements is that the student the financially disadvantaged may studies full-time. Ironically, this never live their dreams and profesputs the financially disadvantaged sional training and education will at even more of a disadvantage in only be open to those who can afterms of qualifying for the rebate. ford the huge costs associated with A government-financed rebate it.
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spring 2012
EYE OFTHE TIGER
page 9
The bad guy never gets the girl Nice guys don't finish last; they just like to take their time. BY CHRISTINA PHAM OPINION CONTRIBUTOR
ontrary to what most people might think, being a bad boy usually doesn’t win hearts. It might seem like the jerks are the ones that all the girls seem to notice, but not all girls are attracted to those kinds of guys. Sometimes, girls get caught up in all the attention they receive from boys and they forget that they’re looking for a gentleman. With that said, there are girls who remember that the nice guys are the best guys- you just need to dig a little deeper. It’s a matter of letting her see your personality shine brighter than someone else’s billion-dollar smile; no girl wants to be dating someone who’s going to end up breaking her heart. It might take a few wrong turns before a girl finally understands that what she’s looking for has been right beside her all this time. If you’re a gentleman, but girls just don’t seem to notice you, hold on a little longer. There are girls out there who know you’re amazing—they’re just a little shy. There are girls out there who know that nicest guys are the ones you never really notice. Open your eyes, girls. The boys that you’re always "friend-zoning" could be the ones that are the best fit for you. A lot of girls describe their ideal guy as someone who puts them first. Ladies, what you don’t seem to realize is that they’re closer than you might think. What some girls seem to forget sometimes is that you never really know how attractive someone is until you really get to know them. Just because these guys aren't necessarily the ones that catch your attention right away, that is not to say that they are not
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LOOK AROUND LADIES The guy you’re looking for may be closer than you think!. Don’t rely on first impressions! going to steal your heart once you know how to make a good first im- and know how to make them feel get to know them well. It just takes pression and that might be why a beautiful and wanted. More than time. lot girls notice them first. Flirts tend that, they show that they’re interA lot of flirty, insensitive guys to have more experience with girls ested in a girl and that they can be
fun to hang out with. A lot of gentlemen know how to make a girl feel like a million bucks, but no matter how important it is to let a girl know her worth, you have to let her know your worth too. The differentiating factor is that a lot of jerks are confident. Confidence is what makes a lasting impression. Before you can get a girl to like you, you have to like yourself first. How can you expect a girl to see that your amazing qualities if you aren’t aware of them first? A lot of nice guys have these wonderful traits about them, but they don’t let girls know that they’re as good as, if not better, than the other guy. What ends up happening is the jerk who thinks he’s all that gets the girl, because she buys what he’s selling. The best way to make a lasting impression is to show a girl that you’re an amazing guy, and that you might be exactly what she’s looking for. At first, it might seem like girls aren’t paying attention to you. Most girls don't realize that behind what they see is a gentleman that's everything they're looking for. It takes time for a lot of girls to fully see that what they're looking for is right under their noses, so if you're a nice guy, don't give up. There's a reason why the good guys always get girl, and honestly, even if it takes longer, it'll totally be worth it. When you find the girl that realizes that what she's looking for has been there the whole time, I guarantee that the long wait is going to be worth it. So, if a girl is putting you in the “friend zone”, don’t stress too much. Becoming friends is going to give you the perfect opportunity to let her get to know the real you and what’s beyond what she sees. Being a jerk might be the shortcut that’s going to get you to the finish line faster, but trying your best and taking the long way is going to make you happier.
Take the initiative to stop bullying ‘STOP BULLYING’ FROM PAGE 1
Although I knew a pattern was to be repeated eventually, I didn’t truly recognize that I had fortified a defence against bullying and a refuge for my peer. I believe that all it takes to impede bullying is one individual who is willing to stand in solidarity with the victim and to let
that person know that he or she is not alone. I had shown my explicit acceptance of my peer, through an act of overt friendship and an intolerance of bullying. I learned from my own actions that even just one student confronting a bully can be more
than enough to halt the abuse instantly. The best resistance against bullying, I had discovered, was in being a friend who will stand by the victim’s side. I had defended my newly acquainted friend when he could not support, let alone stand by himself.
It may be an unpopular and daring attitude to stop bullying in its tracks, but it’s time to teach kids to play nice. Peers and administrators alike need to emphasize and make it clear that the lonely version of a student will not be terrorized. Bullying simply cannot be tolerated.
kicked and punched the helpless boy behind their school. As if this weren’t bad enough, a different student filmed the entire incident, while snickering at the boy and striking him with abusive comments. It was obvious that she could have ended the vicious beating- so why didn’t she? She was just having too much fun, and that sickens me, because I know what it’s like to be that boy. From my own experience, I learned that bullying inevitably alters the individual’s behavior and perception of one’s self. Being a bullied victim has been associated with emotional and social problems, leading to traumatic mental disorder. This happens to be a primary and motivating factor in depression, violence, and suicide. Another factor is anxiety of being the next victim, spreading fear along the way. In my opinion, bullying is an issue that has been ignored too often in schools and by administrators or officials, because these circumstances are seen as “minor problems” which, supposedly, can be easily dealt with. Due to the lack of administrative support in school, many students are therefore unable to cope with their issues. I not only believe that students need to unite with one another in order to face down the bully or reach out to the victim, but that nothing else will be truly effective. That’s what I had unwittingly done that day in gym class, and that’s what I will continue to do as long as humanly possible. NEGATIVE EFFECTS Bullying has a negative impact on all parties, the bully, the victim and the bystander. There is a reason why it is frowned upon.
editorial
page 10 EYE OFTHE TIGER
spring 2012
EYE OF THE TIGER
Adele Chui
from the editors
Jessica Wu
LAYOUT DIRECTOR
Jordi Klein
Yauheni Baldziusau
FINANCIAL DIRECTOR
Boaz Wong
DEPUTY OPINION EDITOR
HEAD PHOTOGRAPHER
Rebecca Liu
DEPUTY LAYOUT DIRECTOR
Nathan Oh
FINANCIAL TEAM MEMBER
Eric Choi
SPORTS EDITOR
EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Jennifer Yoo Wilmer Kwong
Annie Xie
Mitchell Gould
OPINION EDITOR
ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR
NEWS EDITOR
The Eye of the Tiger is an award-winning school newspaper that reaches 2000 students, parents and members of the community each issue. To advertise with us, please contact eyeofthetigerfinance@gmail.com or eyeofthetigerchiefs@gmail.com
Eye of the Tiger is advised by Mrs. Borges.
And your garbage, Thornhill?
FACEOFF The Eye has been hosting a series of editorial debates about controversial topics this year, the third between Mitchell Gould and Nathan Oh arguing about watching televised sports.
Is watching televised sports a waste of time?
YES
Mitchell Gould orry, but watching televised sports is one of the most futile activities ever deemed to have entertainment value. I truly do not understand the satisfaction of watching a group of people, usually men, fighting to get a ball or a puck from Point A to Point B. There are so many other things that people could do with their time, that to waste three whole
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hours parked on the couch and yelling at a TV screen does not make sense. Where’s the satisfaction of watching a basketball player sink a basket from far away, or seeing a hockey player execute a good deke when you in fact could be doing the exact same thing while actually getting something out of it - physical activity! These players didn’t end up as the best in their country by sitting on the couch they actually went outside to play that sport, and get better. Weird, huh? Now, don’t confuse this with being a criticism of professional
sports in general, because I think that people should still be able to go to stadiums and watch their sport. It is a moment of bonding, where people interact with others who also feel just as passionate about the sport. But people who just plop themselves down in front of the TV or computer, who never truly become part of that “in the moment” experience are just ridiculous. So please, instead of yelling at a bunch of people on a screen who really do not care if you think that was a cheap hit or not, get off the couch and go play your sport.
LITTERBUGS Picking up your trash makes life a lot easier for everyone. into the cafeteria, the absolute last Why an extra five seconds thing we want to do is pick up your will save people from 40 garbage. We deserve the same clean conditions that you were minutes of annoyance given when you had your lunch. e know ourselves enough How is it fair in any way for us to to admit that there are try to find a nice place to sit while many things out there you could go wherever you that bug us. People who decide to wanted? The one thing that completely stop in the middle of a hallway, duck face photographs, being told baffles us though, is the fact that to “calm down,” late buses, the list this request is even being made. goes on. Yet those things don’t This is your garbage, people. It will happen to us five days a week. You not magically disappear between know what does? Walking into the lunches. There are no magical cafeteria at 12:52 P.M from Mon- lunch fairies to clear up your mess day to Friday and being met with between lunches. This is the simthe daunting task of finding a clean ple idea of taking responsibility for what you do. 14-18 year olds table to eat at. Those of you with Lunch A, and should not have an adult on their even B may think it’s ridiculous — back about doing the obvious there are so many tables, how thing, nor should the adults at our could there be a problem finding a school find the need to yell at us to clean one? Sadly, it is very difficult. do so. If you’d like, we’ll even outline There are things we’ve seen left on the caf tables that are worthy of the steps for you to take during nightmares — discarded food with your lunch break. Step 1: Sit down the odd bite taken out of it, tipped at a table. Step 2: Eat your lunch, drink bottles still dripping their while engaging your friends or contents onto the table, and plastic casual acquaintances in conversabags that have no business being tion. Step 3: Pack up your lunch. that sticky are daily occurrences Step 4: Bring your garbage to the for us students with Lunch C. conveniently placed trash receptaFrankly, it’s disgusting. cles placed next to both entrances. Being germ conscious, not to Step 5: Enjoy the rest of your day. mention hungry people walking Thanks in advance T.S.S.
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Sensational journalism? It isn’t as bad as everyone makes it out to be.
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LAZYINESS OR LEISURE? Watching televised sports has become one of the most popular pastimes for Canada.
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Nathan Oh
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ntertainment as a whole is not just optional in our society, but has become thoroughly integrated to the point where it is necessary. Who lives life doing homework, sleeping, and eating all day for seven days a week? Everyone has some sort of entertainment in their lives, whether it is watching movies, listening to music, or even relaxing with a book of Sudoku. These are all forms of entertainment and must be valued because they fulfill people’s needs.
In this way. sports are exactly the same. Sports are a form of entertainment that is treasured by many. Generally speaking, it is a form of entertainment that appeals to all sorts of demographics, no matter what age. If you were to go to the Air Canada Centre for the next Leafs or Raptors game, you would find boys and girls as young as 5 or 6 and seniors as old as 80 at these games. Saying that televised sports are a waste of time and thus removing it from our lives would remove the entertainment aspect for millions of men and women around the world. I am not saying that they cannot do other things for entertain-
ment; I’m just saying sports provide a sort of satisfaction that nothing else could. Today, we can see that people of all ages participate in sports or sporting events. Whether it’s someone playing house league hockey once a week, cycling on a regular basis, or playing pickup basketball in the park, sports are without a doubt a big part of our lives. Televised sports are simply an extension of these people’s hobbies and are a big part of how people connect with one another on levels that exceed a simple ‘Hello’ and ‘Goodbye’. Hands down, televised sports are time well spent. In fact, I’m going to go watch some Sportscentre right now.
here’s something to be said about the titillating gossip magazines that line the shelves of grocery stores. Though they may not be considered the most reliable or even conform to the traditional notion of journalism, but these magazines benefit us as a society. There are three core concerns with sensational journalism that have been debated for years: it displaces actual significant stories; it publically illustrates unacceptable notions of decency; and it is seen as more than somewhat excessive. For years and years, these three arguments have been the banner behind which many a journalist would find themselves using against sensationalism. However, even with these concerns, it is hard to really argue against sensationalism. It sells, and numbers show that gossip magazines are more popular than ever. Scandals, rumors, supposed break-ups and hook-ups; these litter the news world. Though newspapers have been traditionally filled with political and economic issues that constitute news, stories about family conflicts, substance abuse, violence, and other more relatable instances are much more relevant to the common masses. After all, though we might not be interested in conflicts, we are always interested in reading about the latest
news in a celebrity’s love life, because we can relate to their experience. Of course, sometimes it is horrifying to read about the supposed indecent acts performed by some of these people who have their faces plastered across the news. And though this might be illustrating unacceptable behavior, it also teaches us as a public to not do the same. After seeing the humiliated and strung-out faces of the latest scandal-makers, there isn’t a large desire to emulate them. We’ve seen someone get publically humiliated, and we don’t want to end up like them. The greatest question is whether these sensational news items are simply excessive and not necessary in journalism. However, with this idea comes a question, what is excessive? In a world where we have a gizmo or app for everything, sensational news items simply fill another want in our never-ending list of wants. Sensational news stories have existed for dozens of years, and for those who just want an interesting read, sensationalism works. The next time you are waiting in line at a grocery store and laughing at the uselessness of the sensational news in these magazines, stop for a moment. Though sensationalism doesn’t fit the traditional notion of journalism, it has it’s own benefits. And the fact that you’ll end up buying one is solid evidence on its own.
sports
spring 2012
sports EYE OFTHE TIGER
page 11
EYE OF THE TIGER
Linsanity has taken over
‘LINSPIRATION’ TO MANY Jeremy Lin has become the talk of the NBA lately, putting up impressive numbers in his games . All these impressive plays have gotten the attention of many fans.
Linning? Declaration of Lindependence? Super Lintendo? The underdog rises. BY JAMEE WONG SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
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t’s hard to determine where to start. Jeremy Lin, one of the most talked about people today, is just an ordinary American man who rose to the occasion. He’s seemingly nothing special. So why all the hype? Recently, it seems that “Linsanity” has swept the nation off its feet and has brought crowds to another level. Jeremy Lin, 23, is currently the starting point guard of the New York Knicks. But he has struggled through rough times and has experienced several disappointments leading up to his success today. However, it seems Jeremy Lin’s dream to become an NBA star was destined to be. He grew up in California into a devout Christian family and he is of Taiwanese descent. Ever since he was young, he played basketball with his father regularly at the local YMCA which was the place where his love for the game began. He was a part of his high school team, Palo Alto High School, and also his university, Harvard, as a member of the Ivy League. Lin’s
life was dedicated to basketball and his skill, determination, and intelligence has driven him to the very top. At Harvard, Lin averaged 16.4 points in his senior year and graduated with a major in Economics. Lin put his academics and sports as his two most important priorities in life and worked hard to achieve his goals. Not being drafted into the NBA, Lin had a lot to show and it was crucial to him that others would recognize his unseen potential. In 2010, he played in the summer league with the Dallas Mavericks and through his games, NBA scouts were able to identify his talent and abilities as a possible NBA player. In the same year, Jeremy Lin was signed to the Golden State Warriors and began his journey. Other than a few points, nobody knew of Jeremy Lin and paid no attention to his name or his game. He was just another NBA player who was not going to make it big; there are many others who don’t. It’s normal. How often does a superstar like Kobe Bryant ever come along, right? Lin’s career started out fairly weak and he failed to impress. He was cut from the Warriors to the Houston Rockets, never playing a
single regular season game, and then cut again. From Houston, Lin travelled to New York to play for the Knicks, the team he plays for today. Through his struggles, Lin was sent down to the D-League four times, three times last season and once this season after not being able to perform. When he was sent down to the D-League earlier this year, it seemed like this was going to be yet another disappointing season. Soon after returning from the DLeague, Jeremy Lin had a groundbreaking game against the New Jersey Nets, playing up against one of the best point guards in the league, Deron Williams. He scored 25 points with 7 assists that night while shutting down his matchup in the second half, as the Knicks went on to win 99-92. Since then, Lin has been unstoppable. The entire team has been transformed with the help of Lin, and he has lifted his teammates onto his shoulders, bringing hope to all New Yorkers. Lin has led the Knicks to a season-long 7 game winning streak and has exceled in each game (the most amazing game was probably against Kobe Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers, scoring a career high of 38 points). Unmistakably, Lin is a team player
who acts respectfully and humbly in every game. He treasures each game as a learning opportunity to improve and has taken his religious values to heart, praising God after each game and saying it is only through His power that he is able to perform this well.
Jeremy Lin continues to put smiles on the crowd’s faces and is truly a pleasure to watch. “Linsanity” is very contagious and it affects just about everyone around me, and I have never been more proud of my fellow Asian’s success.
sports
page 12 EYE OFTHE TIGER
spring 2012
Getting Luck-y: 2012 NFL mock draft Here are predictions on this year’s draft class and who will go where. BY GABRIEL WAHL SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
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t’s almost draft time in the NFL, and there is still much uncertainty surrounding some picks. This article is just a football fanatic’s first round mock draft to hopefully bring some reasoning to who goes where. Ignoring draft day trades as well as illogical picks from the GMs around the league, I will explain why the top 5 picks will be taken so high and list the picks 632. So without further adieu here are my picks for the first round of the 2012 NFL draft. 1. Indianapolis Colts: University of Stanford, QB Andrew Luck With the first pick in this year’s draft the Colts desperately need to look at replacing aging quarterback Peyton Manning. Andrew Luck is the best fit for the job simply because he resembles Manning the most out of the quarterbacks this year. He is composed in the pocket with great decision making skills much like Manning. The upside to Luck is that he can get out of the pocket a little better than Manning can. I mean, this guy can run maybe not as good as Tim Tebow or Robert Griffin III but he can im-
provise when he has to. A perfect pick. 2. St. Louis Rams: USC, OT Matt Kalil The Rams’ so-called “quick fix” of drafting Sam Bradford has failed them; I believe he will be their quarterback of the future but he needs some help. The best way to boost a quarterback’s confidence is a good offensive line because the less they get sacked the more they feel comfortable in the pocket. Matt Kalil won’t fix this Rams team but he will help them rebuild in the future. In the next few years they can help surround Bradford with the pieces he needs to make this offence great. Kalil will become a franchise tackle and will be able to take some of the best defensive ends out of the game with his great footwork and strength. 3. Minnesota Vikings: Oklahoma State, WR Justin Blackmon The Vikings fell apart last season with their less than stellar offensive play. Christian Ponder is a good young quarterback and I think they would be stupid to let him go to another team. All Ponder really needs is a wide receiver that will be there for him on every play and that receiver is Blackmon. He is a big bodied receiver that can run after the catch. He doesn’t have blinding speed but is able to make catches by doing all the little things and
getting into great position. He will be able to play across the formation from Percy Harvin and can offer a good two-option offence that will demand both defending the long pass and the short slot receptions. 4. Cleveland Browns: Baylor, QB Robert Griffin III The Browns desperately need a franchise quarterback to help Peyton Hillis get the kind of yardage that he is capable of. RG3 is very versatile and is able to pass and run equally well. He will be able to bring an option game to the Browns that will be able to use some of their fast receivers to make big plays. RG3 has the arm strength to get the ball downfield when he has to and can make touch passes on the sidelines. He is a complete quarterback that can become a great starter from the first snap of the season. 5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Alabama, RB Trent Richardson The Bucs don’t have a lot of work to do to become a contender, but one thing they do need is a great running back. LeGarrette Blount did an okay job running last season but they need a safer runner who will be a part of their franchise for years. Richardson is a very safe choice because he is a great allaround back. He can run through or around people and has good hands out of the backfield. He will
be a good back in the league for a while and has a great skill set that translates well to the style of play in the NFL. 6. Washington Redskins: LSU, CB Morris Claiborne 7. Jacksonville Jaguars: North Carolina, DL Quinton Coples 8. Carolina Panthers: Penn State, DT Devon Still 9. Miami Dolphins: Texas A&M, QB Ryan Tannehill 10. Buffalo Bills: LSU, DT Michael Brockers 11. Kansas City Chiefs: Ohio State, OT Mike Adams 12. Seattle Seahawks: USC, DE/ OLB Nick Perry 13. Arizona Cardinals: Iowa, OT Riley Reiff 14. Dallas Cowboys: Alabama, CB Dre Kirkpatrick 15. Philadelphia Eagles: Boston College, ILB Luke Kuechly 16. New York Jets: Stanford, OL David DeCastro 17. Cincinnati Bengals: North Alabama, CB Janoris Jenkins 18. San Diego Chargers: Alabama, OLB Courtney Upshaw 19. Chicago Bears: Notre Dame, WR Michael Floyd 20. Tennessee Titans: Memphis, DT Dontari Poe 21. Cincinnati Bengals: Georgia, OL Cordy Glenn 22. Cleveland Browns: Baylor, WR Kendall Wright
23. Detroit Lions: Stanford, OL Jonathan Martin 24. Pittsburgh Steelers: Wisconsin, OL Peter Konz 25. Denver Broncos: Washington, DT Alameda Ta’amu 26. Houston Texans: Georgia Tech, WR Stephen Hill 27. New England Patriots: Mississippi State, DT Fletcher Cox 28. Green Bay Packers: South Carolina, OLB/DE Melvin Ingram 29. Baltimore Ravens: Alabama, ILB Dont’a Hightower 30. San Francisco 49ers: Rutgers, WR Mohammed Sanu 31. New England Patriots: Alabama, SS Mark Barron 32. New York Giants: Stanford , TE Coby Fleener One thing is for sure in this year’s draft and that is big steals and big excitement. Andrew Luck will have a massive impact on the game and it will be a joy to watch him command the Colts offence. Look for some big trades specifically early on with the Rams’ pick as they might try to get some better veterans for the 2nd overall pick. The first round will most likely have a few disappointments and those will most likely come from the offensive linemen as they will have to face better and faster pass rushers in the NFL. When all is said and done, this year’s draft will be very impactful on the upcoming season.
Silencing the critics: Manning stuns the Pats The Man in the Dress foiled yet again by Lil’ Manning BY DANIEL GRENIER SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
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he kid is hot tonight. Eli Manning has yet again shut up everyone who’d doubted him in the past. The Giants pivot overcame the odds and he and his boys defeated the New England Patriots 21-17 in dramatic fashion. The Giants, who finished the regular season a mediocre 9-7, defeated three juggernaut teams on their road to Super Sunday, including the powerhouse Green Bay Packers and San Francisco 49ers. Eli’s abilities had been questioned all season; he had hot flashes and streaks of inconsistency, but he pulled through when it counted. The Patriots, who were nine point favourites heading into the game, certainly had some explaining to do. Don’t get me wrong, Tom Brady played an outstanding game, and the defense contained the Giants offense well, but they seemed out of rhythm. Receivers were dropping a lot of balls, most notably Wes Welker, who dropped a sure first down ball in a clutch moment in the 4th quarter, and Rob Gronkowski, who dropped a Championship winning catch in the end zone at the end of the game. It also didn’t help that Brady’s girlfriend, Gisele Bundchen, slandered the receivers postgame. Anyways, into the game. Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis was absolutely buzzing the night of February 5th. Fans from all over the continent poured through to watch the epic rematch of Super Bowl 42, the game that saw the perfect Patriots have their season spoiled by the gritty and determined Eli Manning with a little help from the remarkable catch made by David Tyree. Brady now had a little extra fire lit under him, something to push him over the edge and capture glory. Eli on the opposite side of the field, looked to claim his second championship in 5 years and prove himself as an elite quarterback in the NFL. It was a nightmarish first quarter for the Patriots. Brady’s first play of the
game saw him get flagged for intentional grounding in his own end zone, relinquishing a quick 2-0 lead to the Giants. After receiving the free kick, New York drove 78 yards in 9 plays—including a key 24-yard run by Ahmad Bradshaw—and increased their lead to 9–0 on Manning's 2-yard touchdown pass to Victor Cruz. But hold on now, Brady had a few tricks up his sleeve. After Stephen Gostkowski made it 9-3 with a field goal, Brady completed eight consecutive passes for 71 yards, and threw a 4yard touchdown pass to running back Danny Woodhead, giving the Patriots a 10–9 halftime lead. (The halftime show was Madonna, blah blah blah, someone showed the middle finger, concerned parents everywhere, NBC gets some nasty phone calls.) The second half got started quickly, with Brady driving and tossing a 12 yard strike to tight end Aaron Hernandez for a 17-9 Pats lead. At this point, some angry Giants fans were ready to empty their wallets and lose their bet “gracefully”. The G-Men said no way. With a combination of some solid defense and great special teams play, the Giants walked out of the 3rd quarter closing in, down 17-15. Now it’s interesting, right? After some back-and-forth defensive showdowns between the two teams, Eli took over on his own 12 yard line with 3:46 left on the clock. On the first play, in what would end up being one of the key plays of the game, Manning completed a deep pass along the left sideline to receiver Mario Manningham for a 38yard gain to midfield. Two more Manningham catches racked up another 18 yards. Manning then completed a 14-yard pass to Nicks on the New England 18-yard line at the two minute warning. Two plays later, New England called their second timeout with 1:03 left after Bradshaw's one-yard run gave New York a 2nd down and goal on the six-yard line. Pats coach Bill Belichick saw the immediate danger in the Giants running the clock down. The next play saw the Patriots defense stand up and let running back Ahmad Bradshaw trip over the goal line into the end zone.
After a two-point conversion attempt was missed, the Giants had a 21-17 lead with one minute left. This was it. Brady’s final stand came with just fifty-six seconds left on the clock. After a shaky start to the drive, Brady completed a clutch 3rd and long pass to Deion Branch to keep the drive alive. Some more advances were made, a Giants penalty left the Patriots on their own 49 yard line with nine seconds left. Another incomplete pass, and this
was it. Brady, on the game's final play, threw a Hail Mary pass intended for Hernandez in the end zone, but the ball was deflected by Giants defenders. Tight end Rob Gronkowski dove with outstretched arms toward the ball but was still a yard away when it hit the ground, ending Super Bowl XLVI and giving New York their fourth Super Bowl win in franchise history. That was it. Brady left the stadium hanging his head for the sec-
ond straight time, returning home short of his fourth Super Bowl ring. Eli, on the other hand, held his head high, his second ring placed on his finger, as well as being deemed the Super Bowl MVP. Eli finally shut them all up. That win was convincing enough to put Eli in the same league as Brady, Rodgers, Brees, and most importantly, his big brother Peyton. Well, at least that’s my opinion. The evidence is on the table. Do you agree?
ELI HAS DONE IT ALL From defeating big teams in the playoffs, silencing the critics and winning the Super Bowl.
sports
spring 2012
Final Injury Sidney Crosby is changing the league with the most popular injury in hockey BY JOSH PETERS SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
n the eve of January 31st 2012. 13 games were played in the NHL. Players all around the league geared up for their Tuesday night hockey game, eager to touch the puck and maybe even score. And as every single one of those players stepped onto the ice, Sidney Crosby, who some say is the greatest hockey player of all time, stepped onto what has become very familiar to him in the past year: the podium. He was not participating in his team’s game against the Leafs that night but rather answering questions about yet another development in the ongoing saga of his ability, or rather inability to play hockey. That night his team played an unbelievable game against Toronto, winning in a shootout after coming back. However, after the game, sports websites showed more about the soft tissue in Crosby’s neck than his team’s triumph. When David Steckel’s elbow and Victor Hedman’s hit from behind sidelined the superstar initially, these media conferences became all too familiar. From January 5th until November 21st, 2011, the hockey world was content to listen to an injured Crosby talk about how his symptoms were not showing major improvement but how he hoped to get back on the ice soon. That story made the news for about 11 months straight. And it was all because the hockey world purely did not know how to react to the face of their sport being out for so long. And with Crosby’s counterpart, Alexander Ovechkin having a below average season, there really was no superstar, and most people did not seem to care. It’s Crosby that has our attention. Crosby’s injuries have gotten the most attention because of the superstar that he is but also because the concussion epidemic has hit the league hard this year. Even with the league doing the best they can with Brendan Shanahan cracking down on any video footage that looks suspicious, it is still out of control. Concussions have always been an issue in the NHL but when Crosby got his, and because of the severity of it, the situation just blew up. Some say that there is not more concussions but rather more awareness this year. This is partly due to Crosby as well. Teams are
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being extremely careful as they saw the Pens star attempt to return the game after and get sidetracked for another year. They watched as he tried to return in late November and then get knocked out of the lineup again. The whole situation is helping teams realize that they need to be way more careful in how they treat head injuries, and is showing that coming back too soon could be extremely harmful. That’s why we are seeing examples like Claude Giroux of the Flyers, taking maybe a bit longer than he needed to get back in the lineup after his concussion. The team did not want to risk him coming back too early and “pulling a Crosby”. In this sense, Crosby’s injuries have not only affected him, but affected the whole league. Penguins GM Ray Shero pretty much summed up this issue when he said, “Every hit, every concussion, every suspension contributes to the discussion. When Sidney Crosby gets hit, it gets put in the spotlight, but that’s where it needs to be.” And it has been the centre of attention, for the entire season so far, proving that you can never be too careful. After all the talk, the biggest question in the NHL right now, overshadowing almost everything else, is when is Crosby going to return? What is the status on his injury? It is almost like the news goes in spurts. There is a development in the Crosby story, everyone talks about it, analyzes it into a ridiculous amount of detail and then it dies down for a bit. We start talking about real hockey news like trades but it is just until the next Crosby development comes out. His injury has taken the league by storm and has affected it in a major way. This is a very rare occurrence for the star of a league to be injured for such a long period of time. Gretzky was never out for this long, and imagine if Kobe Bryant or Albert Pujols was. It probably would be under the microscope just as much or even more. The popularity of Crosby has made this one of the most popular injuries ever. Whether he likes it or not Crosby will string us along for as long as it takes for him to get back on the ice, if he ever does, and the hockey world will listen with open ears. Regarding his soft tissue injury Crosby said, “There are not a lot of answers with this kind of stuff. I think anyone going through this is just trying to find something to lean on.” While Crosby’s finding something to lean on, we’ll be leaning on his every word.
SID’S RETURN? When’ll he be back, we don’t know, but we’ll be watching.
EYE OFTHE TIGER
page 13
Postseason playoff pressure What teams will make it and what teams will miss it? BY DAKSH DATTA SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
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ith the NHL postseason on the horizon, the playoff picture is starting to form. This is the time of year when trades are finalized, and when teams start to get ready for the playoffs. For some teams it’s simply a matter of keeping a hold onto their lofty place in the conference standings. For others it’s make or break time as they start their push for the postseason. If the last few sentences didn’t make any sense to people who don’t follow the NHL, this is how it works. The National Hockey League consists of 30 teams. T h e league is divided into two conferences: East and West. Each conference has 15 teams, as well as three divisions. The top team of each division is in the top 3 of the conference, even if it is behind a second place team of another division. Each win counts as 2 points, and each regulation loss counts as 0. However, a loss after regulation (played in overtime or shootout) results in 1 point. At the end of the season (82 games), the top 8 teams of each conference face off in a series of 7 games (first one to reach 4 wins is the winner), where 1st place faces 8th, 2nd faces 7th and so on. This process of elimination continues until there is one team left in each conference. Those two teams face off in a best of 7 series, and the winner is awarded the Stanley Cup. Hopefully this makes a little more sense. The current playoff picture is surprisingly different from last year. Last year the Washington Capitals were first in the Eastern Conference, and now they are fighting for the last playoff spot. The Florida Panthers finished last in the conference in the 2010-2011 season, and at this point, they are 3rd. This shows how quickly the tables turn; teams can go from first to last or vice versa within a few seasons. The top of the Western Conference, however, has hardly changed. The top three teams of last year (Vancouver, Detroit, and San Jose) are still the top three teams this year. The top teams in the West (Detroit and Vancouver) are in no danger of missing the playoffs. Unless they have a complete collapse and go on massive losing streaks, these teams look like they will make the playoffs easily. San Jose is different, because it is only in 3rd due to the fact that it is the leader of its division. The team is only leading their division by two wins. The second and third place teams in the division are tied and are also the 7th and 8th place teams in the conference. If San Jose falls behind these teams, they will not be able to make the playoffs. San Jose is probably going to make the playoffs because they have played fewer games than their division rivals and, if they keep their current pace, they will be able to hold their playoff spot. St. Louis and Nashville hold the 4th and 5th spots of the conference, and are a few points away respectively from 1st placed Detroit. They are in respectable positions and will probably hold them since they have a sizable lead over Chicago, Phoenix, and Los Angeles. These three along with Calgary will interchange positions since they are very close together in the standings and any one of them could miss the playoffs. Dallas has hit a slightly rough patch, losing many games over the last few weeks, and needs to recover quickly in order to keep up. The remaining five teams do not have much of a chance of mak-
‘MAD DASH’ FROM PAGE 1
PLAYOFF-BOUND Canucks, Wings, Bruins and Rangers are all set this year. ing the playoffs. Anaheim has a teams below them) have upped winning streak at the moment, with their game. The Toronto Maple a respectable amount of points in a Leafs and the Washington Capitals short period of time, so there is are next, fighting for the 8th and some hope for this team (similar to final playoff spot. The Leafs rethe Devils last year), but the other cently lost to Washington, and may four have a very small chance of end up missing the playoffs again making it since they cannot com- because of this crucial loss. Washpete at a playoff level just yet. ington has had its struggles as well, Moving over to the Eastern Con- with star player Alexander ference, we have the New York Ovechkin underperforming. This Rangers in 1st place, followed by will be a close fought battle and it's the Boston Bruins in 2nd. These too early to tell who the victor will two teams are very similar to Van- be. Below the Capitals are the Wincouver and Detroit because their nipeg Jets, who, though they were only real competition right now is moved to a new city, are still the each other. They have a large lead mediocre Atlanta Thrashers. They over the other teams, and a small are the Leafs of yesteryear, surprisdistance between each other. ing at times; average, but not These two are nearly guaranteed to enough to be a playoff team. Perbe in the playoffs, and are consid- haps in a few years they will be, ered Cup favourites. when they have a strong team Following them is Florida. This again, but for now they aren’t cut team is incredibly similar to San out to be a contender. Below them Jose. It is in 3rd place because of its are Tampa Bay, the New York Isvery small divisional lead, and if it landers, Montreal, Buffalo, and were to lose that lead it would be Carolina. While the Islanders are sitting outside the playoffs. Judging where they have been for quite a by their current play, they are far- while, the other four teams are acing better than Washington, its customed to higher spots. Things division rival, which is a few wins have changed a lot since last seabehind. Washington hasn’t won son. Tampa Bay used to be a conmany games recently, and has a tender for the top 3, Montreal and small chance of beating its division Buffalo would wall out the playoff rival if it continues like this. Florida spots with the 7th and 8th posiwill make the playoffs due to its tions, and Carolina would struggle consistency and the fact that it has- for the last playoff spot. Now, hown’t had an opportunity like this in a ever, Tampa Bay has dropped like a while. rock, and unless they can get their The next few teams, Pittsburgh, act together, and perhaps find a Philadelphia, and New Jersey, seem good goalie to replace the aging like their positions are set since the Roloson, they will stay near the teams below them simply aren’t of bottom for years to come. The Cathe same calibre while the teams nadiens and Sabres have great above them are consistent and goalies, but not a very good team in aren’t slipping. Pittsburgh and front. Their predicament looks Philadelphia are annual contend- temporary, and the two should ers so they are almost certainly in become contenders within the next the playoffs. New Jersey is a proven year or two. Carolina is last in the playoff contender due to the enor- East and is almost certainly not mous surge it had last year after going to make it into the playoffs. hiring a new coach, and the fact Well, there you have the NHL that the surge has continued this playoff outlook. The NHL is very year, pushing the team into a re- complex, but when simplified, this spectable playoff position. seems to be what we will see in a Next are a number of teams. The few months. However, it doesn’t Ottawa Senators have a reasonably have to be extremely accurate since strong hold on a playoff spot, and the standings are constantly changthey won’t lose it to a team below ing. What will the playoffs actually them because they (unlike the look like? Only time will tell.
page 14 EYE OFTHE TIGER
sports
spring 2012
Sprint to the finish: 2012 NBA playoff predictions Who will make it to the 2012 NBA playoffs? Find out! BY KEVIN CHAN SPORTS CONTRIBUTOR
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s I’m writing this article, the lockout-shortened 2012 NBA season is approaching the halfway mark and All-Star Weekend. With it have come a number of surprises, including sophomore guard Jeremy Lin, the controversial Chris Paul trade, and Dwight Howard wanting to leave Orlando. As the games fly by, several teams in both conferences are fighting for an elusive playoff berth. With that said, here are the All-Star Break record standings, as well as predictions for the 2012 NBA playoffs. All projections are from ESPN’s 20112012 Playoff Odds as of late February. Eastern Conference 1. Miami Heat All-Star Break record 27-7, 1st; Projected 49-17, 2nd The Heat turned themselves into serious contenders last season with the addition of perennial All-Stars Lebron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh. They are no exception this year, and they are half a game up on the Chicago Bulls. The “Big Three” are the most well-known trio of players in the NBA, and with good reason. Even though Wade sat out three weeks with an injury, the Heat were able to win several games without him. Look for the Heat and the Bulls to rematch in this year’s Eastern Conference Finals. 2. Chicago Bulls All-Star Break record 27-8, 2nd; Projected 50-16, 1st The Chicago Bulls proved last year that they had a strong roster and capable players with a deep playoff run and series wins against Indiana and Atlanta. Even though the Bulls lost to the Miami Heat in five games, they still finished last season with a league-best 62-20 record. The Bulls are once again making a strong statement this year, even though they have played without star point guard Derrick Rose for a handful of games. Expect them to once again make a deep playoff run and contend for the championship. 3. Indiana Pacers All-Star Break record 21-12, 3rd; Projected 38-28, 6th The Pacers are a pleasant surprise, and much like the Philadelphia 76ers, they feature a very wellrounded roster built around forward Danny Granger. Last year, the Pacers finished with a 37-45 record and failed to advance past top seeded Chicago in the first round of the playoffs. Once again, expect the Pacers to make the playoffs, but fall to a top-seeded team in the first round. It will be interesting to see how this team develops in the coming seasons. 4. Philadelphia 76ers All-Star Break record 20-14, 4th; Projected 43-23, 3rd Philadelphia has been another very pleasant surprise this year, even though they did not make any significant changes to their roster in the offseason. The 76ers finished last season at .500 (41-41), good for 7th place in the East. They were then promptly dispatched by the Miami Heat in the first round. With first-time All-Star Andre Iguodala leading the way, Philadelphia is poised to challenge for the Eastern Conference title. 5. Orlando Magic All-Star Break record 22-13, 5th; Projected 40-26, T-4th After last year’s disappointing 2nd round playoff loss to Atlanta, many predicted that the Magic would no longer be contenders. However, they still have star center Dwight Howard for one more season, and
GAME ON! All the players will be looking to make the playoff push for this year’s post-season championship. Who’s going to lead their team to victory? appear to be making one last push Rondo. Boston’s surprising results season, tied for 2nd with the L.A. All-Star Break record 18-16, 8th; for the championship with a couple this season have come from their Lakers, the Mavericks are playing Projected 37-29, 6th key additions in the offseason. Al- league-best defense, limiting oppo- like an aging team. Star forward After a strong 48-34 finish last year, though the age of their roster could nents to just 87.2 points per game. Dirk Nowitzki is showing signs of good for 6th in the West, the Trail be a factor in their production, I Still, it will be hard to see Boston wear and tear, as are guards Jason Blazers were eliminated in the first believe the Magic have enough gas advancing past the first round of Kidd and Jason Terry. I don’t ex- round by the current defending in the tank to make one more run. the playoffs. pect the Mavericks to make a deep champions, Dallas. Portland then Other Contenders: Cleveland playoff run, especially when facing lost several players in the offseason, 6. Atlanta Hawks All-Star Break record 20-14, 6th; Cavaliers (13-18), Milwaukee Bucks young and dynamic teams like the especially at the guard position, (13-20) Thunder and Clippers. losing Brandon Roy to retirement Projected 40-26, T-4th and Andre Miller in a trade. As a The Hawks made several additions The competition in the East looks 5. Los Angeles Lakers to their roster in the offseason, in- very clear cut. Don’t expect the All-Star Break record 20-14, 5th; result, the Trail Blazers are on the fringe of contending. If the Trail cluding veterans Tracy McGrady, Bucks or the Cavs to make the play- Projected 39-27, 5th Vladimir Radmanovic and Jerry offs this year unless other teams Like the Mavericks, the Lakers are Blazers can pull off a trade for an Stackhouse. They were primed to suffer severe injuries to their star descending from what fans call the above-average guard who can run have a top-four finish until star players. “Kobe Era”. With Kobe Bryant play- plays with first time All-Star LaMarcenter Al Horford tore his left pec- Western Conference ing in his 15th season, he is begin- cus Aldridge, they will definitely toral muscle in mid-January. Since 1. Oklahoma City Thunder ning to show signs of age. The sur- become a force in the West. Other Contenders: Denver Nugthen, starters Josh Smith, Joe JohnAll-Star Break record 27-7, 1st; gery he had performed on his knee son, and sophomore Jeff Teague Projected 47-19, 1st before the season started seemed gets (18-17), Minnesota Timberhave played incredibly well to keep This young and talented team, fea- to help, but it can only be a tempo- wolves (17-17), Utah Jazz (15-17) The Nuggets are perhaps the Atlanta within striking distance. turing stars Kevin Durant and Rus- rary fix. Even with their strong The Hawks’ playoff situation heav- sell Westbrook, are definitely going frontcourt of Pau Gasol and An- most interesting team in the NBA to ily depends on how quickly Hor- to make a deep run in the playoffs. drew Bynum, the Lakers are look- watch. They are currently the ford can return to the team. In the Last year, OKC finished 4th in the ing at what I predict will be their league leaders in points scored, event that Horford returns in time West with a 55-27 record, and final championship run for the next averaging 103.8, but are 29th out of 30 in points allowed, giving up for the playoffs, the Hawks could made it to the Western Conference several years. potentially have a chance at the Finals before being defeated by the The next couple of teams are all 100.8 points a contest. Much of Finals. Dallas Mavericks. The Thunder are very close to each other in terms of their scoring is due to their quick 7. New York Knicks my pick to win the championship standings, and it is not yet clear and aggressive offense, as well as which teams will advance to the having many scoring options. SevAll-Star Break record 17-18, 7th; this year. playoffs. All of the following teams eral of their players have the ability Projected 32-34, 8th 2. San Antonio Spurs The New York Knicks have been a All-Star Break record 24-10, 2nd; have their own strengths and weak- to score over 20 points on any given nesses, which will be discussed. night, providing the Nuggets with huge disappointment this season Projected 45-21, 2nd so far. After adding All-Stars Following a disappointing upset in The teams are ranked by their re- one of the most well-rounded rosters in the league. However, they Amar’e Stoudemire and Carmelo last season’s playoffs to the 8th cords at the All-Star Break. have been plagued with injuries, Anthony to their roster last season seeded Memphis Grizzlies in the 6. Houston Rockets and Tyson Chandler in the offsea- first round, San Antonio is once All-Star Break record 20-14, 6th; including ones to Nene, Danilo Gallinari, and Ty Lawson. If Denver son, many expected the Knicks to again looking for a championship Projected 36-30, T-7th make a deep run this year. Instead, run. The Spurs are similar to Bos- I’m not sure what to make of the can stay healthy, there is no doubt the Knicks began the season 8-17, ton because their roster is also one Rockets this season. After replacing that they will make the playoffs. The Minnesota Timberwolves losing to teams like the Charlotte of the oldest in the league. How- old head coach Rick Adelman with Bobcats and the Toronto Raptors. ever, veterans Tim Duncan and Kevin McHale, the Rockets have are another young and talented The Knicks were further set back by Manu Ginobili, along with point been up and down all season. Still, team, featuring first time All-Star injuries to Anthony and point guard Tony Parker, have shown they are yet another example of an Kevin Love, rookie guard Ricky guard Baron Davis. However, all that they still have gas in the tank. up-and-coming young team, fea- Rubio, and center Nikola Pekovic. was forgotten when point guard Is it possible for the Spurs to over- turing guards Kyle Lowry and Kevin All three players are stepping into Jeremy Lin, the story of the NBA come young teams like Oklahoma Martin. The Rockets have a good their prime, and their gameplay thus far, led the Knicks on a 7-game City and Miami? Only time will tell. chance of making the playoffs this will only improve in the coming winning streak. With Lin, the 3. Los Angeles Clippers year, but they must continue to win months. I think the Timberwolves Knicks could be poised to create All-Star Break record 20-11, 3rd; games in a very competitive West- have a better chance of making the playoffs than the Trail Blazers or several upsets and overcome strong Projected 42-24, 3rd ern Conference. the Jazz, even though the ESPN teams such as the Bulls and the After NBA Commissioner David 7. Memphis Grizzlies Heat. At this point in time, I believe Stern “gifted” point guard Chris All-Star Break record 19-15, 7th; Playoff Odds say otherwise. Even if they do not, the Timberwolves have the Knicks are the “wild card” of Paul to the Clippers, they have Projected 36-30, T-7th the East, because their play now been playing at an elite level on par Memphis finished 8th in the West a strong core of players that they depends on Lin and his ability to with teams like the Heat and the last year with a 46-36 record, and can build on to establish a playoffcreate opportunities f o r Thunder. The potent combination then proceeded to stun the 1st caliber team next season. The Jazz are a quiet, young team Stoudemire and Anthony to score. of Paul and Blake Griffin provide seeded San Antonio Spurs in a six Watch the Knicks closely in the the Clippers with solid offensive game upset. They also very nearly that are in the process of rebuilding coming weeks. options. Unfortunately, Clippers upset the Thunder as well, fighting and developing their players. Sur8. Boston Celtics guard Chauncey Billups suffered a and eventually losing in Game 7. In prisingly, they are in the playoff All-Star Break record 15-17, 8th; season-ending injury several weeks the offseason, the Grizzlies made race and have been consistent Projected 33-33, 7th ago. The Clippers will make the minor roster changes, keeping its against some of the worse teams in One of the oldest teams in the playoffs without a doubt, but I feel young core of Mike Conley, Marc the league. I doubt the Jazz will league, many predicted that the that this team lacks the experience Gasol and Rudy Gay. However, the make the playoffs this year, but Celtics would not even contend this needed to advance past the second Grizzlies suffered a major loss look for them to be a force in the season. The Celtics did not make round. when forward Zach Randolph was coming years. Well, that’s it for my predictions any significant changes to their 4. Dallas Mavericks injured in early January. When for the 2012 NBA Playoffs. They’re roster during the offseason, sticking Randolph returns, the Grizzlies All-Star Break record 21-13, 4th; with veterans Kevin Garnett, Paul Projected 41-25, 4th should have a much stronger team coming up fast! Be sure to mark your calendars, because the playPierce, Ray Allen, Jermaine O’Neal, The defending champions are on and easily make the playoffs. offs begin on April 28! and up-and-coming guard Rajon the decline. After a 57-25 finish last 8. Portland Trail Blazers
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The 54th Grammys recap – year of comebacks and goodbyes The touching tribute to Whitney combined with great music made this one of the best Grammys yet BY WEINI MENGHESHA OPINION CONTRIBUTOR
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he 54th Grammy Awards set aside their usual mood of celebration and triumph to honour the late and great Whitney Houston, debatably the greatest voices of all time. Miss Houston passed the night before the Grammys and the prestigious award show managed to pull together a satisfactory tribute to the vocal powerhouse. Aside from the lovely dedication to Houston, the Grammys still passed with a semblance of the normal pomp and circumstance associated with the yearly award show. The Grammys host, LL Cool J, a rap legend, opened the show with a heartfelt prayer to music’s fallen hero in which he said “Heavenly father, we thank you for sharing our sister Whitney with us… and all though she has gone to soon, we remain truly blessed to have been touched by her beautiful spirit…” The entire Staples Centre bowed their head in respect for Houston, and gave a long round of applause in her memory before the show truly began. Also in respect for Houston, Jennifer Hudson – most well known for her performance in the movie “Dreamgirls” alongside Beyoncé, Jamie Foxx and Eddie Murphy – preformed a rendition of Whitney’s greatest hit, “I Will Always Love You.” The emotional R&B singer managed to pull off the song remarkably well, and did it justice. The song was accompanied by a montage of Whitney’s pictures and past performance clips that were sure to have made most of the audience tear up. The whole show did not have the same dejected feel to it though, as the festivities were kicked off with a bang by Bruno Mars, who performed his hit “Runaway Baby,” with an energetic set that featured a lot of lights, classic black-and-gold tuxedos, great vocals, live instrumentation, and his signature highhairdo. Bruno Mars’ set was proceeded by Alicia Keys and Bonnie Raitt who kicked off a stellar tribute to Etta James, another vocal legend that passed away barely a month before the show. The two preformed the James classic, “A Sunday Kind of Love,” with Keys playing a piano to supplement the two’s vocal contributions. In what had been one of the biggest surprises of the night, the biggest comeback was that of pop superstar, Chris Brown. Brown made his big splash on the Grammy stage after a three year hiatus that fol-
YOU WIN SOME, AND YOU LOSE SOME The Grammy’s showcased the many talents of rising artists, but also remembered the loss of Whitney Houston. lowed 2009’s infamous incident favourable reviews, and after fin- ance of the night, but she stole the “Roman’s Holiday,” with an Exorthat resulted in the cancellation of ishing the song with them, Rihanna show after winning all six Grammys cism of Roman, her alter ego. The his first Grammy performance. The stepped off the stage, leaving Cold- she was nominated for, including performance kicked off with a small award show finally decided to allow play to play their last song, the biggest category of the night, clip of her 2010 single, “Roman’s Brown to make his musical return “Paradise.” “Album of the Year.” Revenge,” followed by a video feaby allowing him to preform twice, Remember the Beach Boys? What were the most shocking turing Roman (a.k.a. Nicki in dison two different sets – once solo, Probably not, but the group was a parts of the night? Well, there were guise) being introduced to the the other with David Guetta. His big deal in the 60’s and celebrated a few but the two biggest ones were priest that would exorcise her, and first performance consisted of a their fifty year anniversary on the brought forward courtesy of Katy then the camera returned to the medley of his current hit singles Grammys stage by a performance Perry and Nicki Minaj. Though the actual Grammy stage where “Turn Up The Music” and of their old hits “Surfer Girl,” former’s vocal ability is not re- stained-glass windows burst into “Beautiful People” while dancing ‘Wouldn’t It Be Nice,” and “Good nown, her talent at putting on an flames, monks danced and altar his heart out on a stage set made up Vibrations,” accompanied by the interesting show is. The pop singer, boys prayed. The show began long of various haphazardly placed current boy bands, Foster the Peo- however, managed to df her biggest before the performance, when she cubes. The acrobatic jumps and ple and Maroon Five. Their col- hits, “E.T.”, which was abruptly cut arrived on the red carpet escorted twists, combined with his vocals laboration wasn’t the only mix of off by what appeared to be a tech- by a Catholic ‘pope.’ Her dramatics made it a show to remember. He old and new of that night. Music issue, buisappoint in a rather ran- caused the horrified Roman Catholater joined David Guetta and rap- legend, Tony Bennett, and Carrie dom offering. Lo-and-behold, the lic Church to send out an extremely per Lil Wayne to preform “I Can Underwood, the 2005 American real Katy Perry wasn’t actually sing- long letter abhorring the entire Only Imagine” on an outside stage. Idol winner, both lit up the stage ing E.T., she was waiting at the very performance. It seems like the enThe singer also managed to win his with a performance of “It Had To top of the stage in a glass box to tire Catholic community is up in first Grammy for “R&B Album of Be You,” a song off of his new duets preform her new song “Part of Me.” arms over the offensive show. the Year,” after three years worth of album. Country singers Paul The vocals lacked dramatically, and This year’s award show had its snubs. McCartney, Joe Walsh and Diana the mechanical suit mixed with the good moments – such as the comeAfter a loud, concert-resembling Krall also performed “My Valen- blue hair was not flattering in the backs of Adele and Chris Brown performance by the Foo Fighters, in tine” together, making this year’s least. The best that can be said was and the tribute to music’s fallen which they played their new song award show a night of collabora- that the pyro-technics were pretty legends, Whitney Houston and Etta “Walk,” Rihanna took the stage, tions. cool. Though Katy Perry’s perform- James – as well as its bad moments. first to preform “We Found Love” In another big comeback of the ance was baffling, the worst was yet It is not hard to see why the Gramin a bright, dance accompanied set 2012 Grammys, pop princess Adele to come. mys this year were the second highthat was remarkably good consid- made her return to music after a Nicki Minaj, the rapper, turned est rated in its entire history, with ering her past award show per- serious vocal surgery that was per- pop singer, turned actress, gave – approximately 39.9 million viewers, formances. After a live set, in which formed late last year. Adele hit the by far – the most dramatic and second only the 1984 Grammys. she yelled “make some noise for stage to preform her hit “Rolling in shocking performance of the night. After the show, the drama and Whitney,” while running across the the Deep,” and blew the house It would not be surprising in the the memories, they made it this stage, Coldplay joined her on stage down with her stunning vocals. least if her set had many running to year’s Grammys one to remember, to perform their collaboration with Every note, every sound was pure find their bibles and rosaries after and now the only question left is the Bajan beauty, “Princess of perfection. The classy singer not she toyed with the Catholic Church what will the Grammys bring next China.” The performance received only gave the best vocal perform- by introducing her newest single, year?
Winter movie scoreboard: The Woman in Black, The Vow, and more Let’s take a look at what this season has to offer on your movie screen. BY YELINA LEE & DIANA LEVINA ENTERTAINMENT CONTRIBUTORS
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t’s that time of the year when you want to stay inside. You get all lazy and you can’t drag yourself outside with your friends, so you end up staying at home like a couch potato. Solution: Netflix, On Demand or your corner video store. However, your movie options are numerous and you can’t decide which one to watch, so here are the
hottest - and worst - movies to satisfy your winter needs. The Woman in Black, chilling and thrilling, will leave you with questions buzzing in your head. Similar to The Grudge and Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark, this tragic but horrifying film makes even the bravest people afraid. Yet, reviews on 'Rotten Tomatoes' would beg to differ. One stated, “Back and forth. Back and forth. There's not much plot for Daniel Radcliffe, so he tiptoes around looking for scares that don't add up.” Truthfully, the critic knows what he's talking about; the plot is everywhere and there is not
much background information or details. This is NOT a recommended movie unless you like thrillers with no plots. Girls, start snuggling with your boyfriends because the most anticipated chick flick is out. The Vow, starring Channing Tatum and Rachel McAdams, will leave you overflowing with tears. This film was found to be popular with teenage audiences. Based on a true story, The Vow is something all of us movie heartthrobs should watch at least once. Twilight fans, please don't hate, but Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn
Part 1 goes into the top ten of least favourite films. It was poorly made and directed, although it was the best out of the series. We all know what's going to happen and you don't even need to watch it to know what the outcome will be. Imdb rates it a 4.7 out of ten, but it deserves a 2.5 out of 10. A critic states, "Better than the rest [of the movies] but the books are always better.” Moving on to the last review, this movie is eccentric, compelling, and will leave you breathless. As previously written, not all movies that are based on books are good. However, The Girl With the Dragon Tat-
too is an exception. Imdb summarizes that a journalist Mikael Blomkvist is aided in his search for a woman who has been missing for forty years by Lisbeth Salander, a young computer hacker. It is definitely not recommended for younger viewers or for watching with your parents since there are some graphic scenes that could lead to a lot of awkwardness. So, there you have it: the best and worst of this winter’s movies. Their pros and cons. Just remember this list for the next time you pick out a movie - you don’t want to be disappointed!
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Ask Aviva Gone too soon, but Got any questions? Aviva is here to answer them. The Eye of the Tiger is proud to present our very own advice column for Thornhill students! With her signature wit and humor, our columnist Aviva will be giving you advice on anything from daily concerns about school to questions about teenage life. If you have any questions that you wish to see answered and published in the paper, don’t hesitate to email them to eyeofthetigerchiefs@gmail.com or check out our Facebook page! BY AVIVA LEV-AVIV COLUMNIST
I love my friends, but I also love my music. However, we have completely different music tastes. I would love to go to some of my favourite band’s concerts, but I don’t know who I would go with. I know I would probably be alone, and that would be terrifying. Do I find someone else with similar music taste? Or somehow convince my friends? What should I do? Sincerely, loyalbandmate I completely feel you—nobody will see Nickelback with me! Anyways, I would be a little wary of you trying to convince your friends because a) it’ll be no fun for anyone if you’re dragging their unenthusiastic little selves around all night, and b) if they end up having a terrible time they might hold it against you and be peeved at you for wasting their time and money. It really is so much more enjoyable to go to concerts with people who are as excited as you are, or at the very least open-minded about the whole thing. My advice would be to try to find someone else to go with you – ideally someone who either likes the same type of music as you, or is just looking to have a fun night out. Concerts are an awesome way to get to know someone a little better and bond over shared interests. So try to reach out to some different friends or even acquaintances who’d be willing to go – you might just end up developing a closer friendship (awesome) and winning yourself a new concert buddy (double awesome). And hey, if they end up being really annoying or boring, you can always pretend you can’t hear a word they’re saying over the music. As for going alone, while I am usually all for doing things on your own and having some ‘me’ time, concerts aren’t the ideal place for that. It depends on the venue and time of day, but there are some crazy people out there and for some reason, a good number of crazies seem to come out at concerts. That being said, it is nice to be with a buddy who can look out for you and vice versa. Plus, you might start to get lonely, and you don’t want to spend all night sulking when you should be having a great time seeing the show. Good luck and have fun, you crazy party animal. And if it’s Nickelback you want to see, come find me – we’ll talk. I LOVE PIE. Thanks, pielover I love pie as well. It is extremely delicious. Unfortunately, it is nowhere near nutritious. So make sure you’re loving pie in moderation, and eating lots of healthy fresh foods as well. Or, just eating your pie on the treadmill. There’s all this commotion about the end of the world in 2012. Is the world really going to end in
2012? Sincerely, terrifiedoutofmywits
never forgotten. Television shows that were cancelled far too soon, versus shows that should have been cancelled long ago BY KEVIN GREENSPAN ENTERTAINMENT CONTRIBUTOR
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here’s no use in pretending that TV shows can get cancelled for any number of reasons. Anybody who knows the first thing about network television knows that it all comes down to one factor: ratings. No matter how much critical acclaim a show receives, if it doesn’t bring in the casual viewer, the axe comes down. Some shows are famous for their cancellations and subsequent cult followings. Firefly ended after a mere 14 episodes, but the fans were so demanding that a movie continuation was eventually made. Arrested Development lasted three whole seasons, but the rabid fan base is so strong even six years later that a series continuation and movie are currently in the works.
and surprising historical knowl- pointing thing about Glee nowaedge. You might even learn days is that, after three years, it still something. can’t decide what it wants to be. The mix of comedy, musical and teen melodrama worked in Season Dollhouse (2008-2010) If you’ve been on the internet 1 when it was just that: a mix. But since 2003, you know that the can- now, in Season 3, Glee has what can cellation of Joss Whedon’s Firefly is only be described as tonal whipstill making people all over the lash, abruptly, tactlessly switching world angry. But it’s really Whe- between comedy and drama whendon’s other foray into science fic- ever it feels like it. It’s messy and tion, the little-appreciated Doll- unfocused, and it’s time to put this house, that deserved a longer run. show out of its misery. The ambitious series had a unique and striking concept – an under- Supernatural (2005-) ground organization that imprints Supernatural is not a bad show. blank slate humans with new per- This may come as a surprise to anysonalities, and rents them out to body who hasn’t actually watched the wealthy elite for various pur- it, but in fact, during its intended poses. Dollhouse turned off casual five-season run, it was a great television viewers and Whedon show. Supernatural is now in the fans alike with the relatively fluffy middle of its seventh season, and standalone episodes that opened without series creator Eric Kripke at the first season. Then it took a dras- the helm, it just doesn’t have the tic upturn in quality in the back same spark. Kripke left Supernatuhalf, emphasizing the core con- ral because he originally conceived cept’s potent metaphor for human it as only five seasons long, but trafficking and slavery, and was thanks to high ratings, it was remiraculously renewed for a second newed for a sixth, and then a sevseason. It was the Season 1 DVD- enth, despite the story having alonly bonus episode, the post- ready reached its logical concluapocalyptic “Epitaph One,” that sion. Indeed, the first five seasons truly showed Dollhouse’s potential are a must for any fantasy fan. as a bleak march towards corporate Though it started as a fairly stan-engineered catastrophe. With dard episodic mystery show, Superunique and ambitious storytelling, natural eventually developed an complex themes of identity and impressively focused mythology free will and a stunningly talented about an epic battle between cast including Eliza Dushku, Olivia heaven and hell. It’s easy to see Williams and Enver Gjokaj, Doll- where Kripke’s story ends and anhouse could have been a bona fide other begins. The Season 5 finale, sci-fi classic with just a little more “Swan Song,” is a perfect send off to time to flesh out its fascinating uni- the characters and the mythology verse. of Supernatural – and it should have ended then and there. On the flip side, if a show can . maintain strong ratings it can run The Big Bang Theory (2007-) forever. It’s a testament to viewers’ Now that it’s reached its fivedesire for more of the same that s e a s o n syndication deal shows like CSI and NCIS, that have- (guaranteeing that we’ll be subn’t changed at all in their decade- jected to reruns for decades) it’s long runs, maintain strong ratings. time to take this bland, derivative It’s hard to blame the networks for sitcom out of its valuable time slot. keeping shows on the air that bring The Big Bang Theory is an undeniin the money, but some shows sim- able ratings success, which is ply don’t deserve to keep their spot hardly surprising. There’s nothing in primetime. Nevertheless, here creative or interesting about it, are some currently airing shows which usually guarantees mass that have long passed their expira- appeal. While shows with original tion dates. and unique premises struggle and get swiftly cancelled, The Big Bang Glee (2009-) Theory is content to throw a bunch For a show that started out so of tired stereotypes - Nerds! Ditzy strong, Glee didn’t take long to girls! - into stale, decades-old sitsquander its promising concept com plots and rake in the cash. It’s and throw away everything that not an awful show (it’s technically once made it special. Now at three fine and has a mostly enjoyable seasons and counting, Glee seems cast), but the ambitionless writing, to just be going through the mo- wrapped in paper-thin ‘booktions; a song here, a moral there, smart’ packaging, is frustrating to and some lines for Jane Lynch to watch knowing that far superior shout is just about all that goes into sitcoms, like Community and Parks an episode these days. And when it and Recreation, are floundering in isn’t content with just being lazy, the ratings against the show. The Glee can find its way into being Big Bang Theory needs to be candownright offensive (watch this celled not because it’s terrible, but season’s “I Kissed a Girl” for a dis- because it’s a black hole for ratings, gustingly backwards display of sucking them away from original ‘support’ for lesbian Santana). shows that truly deserve the attenHonestly, though, the most disap- tion.
Do you honestly think I have the answer to that? It is very flattering that you think I’m that intelligent, but I really have no idea, sorry. But people seriously need to stop talking about the whole global cataclysm because it’s freaking me out. And you’re probably freaking yourself out too! Just do your best to enjoy life while you’re still living. Do whatever is going to make you happy and keep yourself (and others) safe and healthy while still keeping doors open for the future. Take up painting. Get a hamster. Watch Cake Boss and eat cake at the same time. (In moderation. See above.) Enjoy yourself, regardless of whether the world is going to Here are some lesser-known shows that won’t be coming back any time end in 2012 or not! soon, no matter how much they I love my friends, but sometimes deserve it. they end up doing the craziest things. As someone who cares Pushing Daisies (2007-2009) In an era where television is about them, I’m actually very worried. How do I keep them dominated by aggressively dark from doing crazy, stupid things crime procedurals (CSI, Criminal while still making sure I’m not Minds, etc.), Pushing Daisies offered a refreshing take on a genre acting like their ‘dad’? that had, in 2007, already felt like it Thank you, notyourfather had run its course. Created by “Cancellation King” Bryan Fuller That’s a really great question. (Wonderfalls, Dead Like Me), DaiHowever, I have no idea what to tell sies had a target on its back from you in terms of stopping them, be- the start. Thanks to a dedicated cult cause I don’t see it as being possi- audience, though, it managed to ble for you. It’s very sweet that you run two seasons before getting the care enough about them to want to axe. The candy-coloured, relentkeep them out of trouble, but it lessly upbeat series centred on a really isn’t your responsibility. You pie-maker, played by Lee Pace, can definitely make your sugges- who has the ability to bring the tions known to them, but if you’re dead back to life with a touch – and not getting through, you can’t kill them permanently with anstress yourself out too much about other. Pace uses this ability to solve it. crimes with the help of his recently The important thing is to make deceased childhood crush Chuck sure that you’re taking care of your- (Anna Friel), who he revives in the self and that you don’t end up get- Pilot episode. This concept made ting sucked into whatever it is that Pushing Daisies unique, but the you disapprove of. You need to quick wit, talented supporting cast make clear to yourself exactly what and buckets of quirk made it someyou will and will not do, so that if a thing special. It’s nothing short of time comes when your hooligan disappointing that such a warmfriends beg you to join in on their hearted show could leave maincompromising activities, you’ll stream audiences so cold. have an easier time resisting. And go make some new friends! Clone High (2002-2003) Try to get closer with some other The short-lived animated series, people who are more tune with Clone High, had all the makings of your values and who won’t give you a success: Bill Lawrence, creator of a heart attack every Friday night. Scrubs, served as executive proThat’s not to say you have to dump ducer, and reliable comedy favouryour old friends obviously, just give ites Will Forte, Nicole Sullivan, yourself some more choices. Donald Faison and Christa Miller And who knows? Those friends provided their vocal talents. It’s a may just get tired of their crazy shame, then, that it never managed schemes and the repercussions to reach the heights of popularity after a while anyway. achieved by other “adult cartoons” It’s kind of like going to Mandalike The Simpsons, Family Guy and rin. The first few times you go, Futurama. It’s pretty easy to see you’re overwhelmed by the beautiwhy that is. Clone High’s premise ful, bounteous buffet and you gleewas a little bit out there. The clones fully stuff yourself with everything of famous historical figures - inin sight, from wonton soup to wafcluding but certainly not limited to fles with whipped cream and the main cast of Abraham Lincoln, chocolate syrup. However, after a Cleopatra, Joan of Arc, JFK and couple experiences with that inGandhi - attend a high school led tense after-dinner stomach ache by a mad scientist. The offbeat conwhere you look and feel eight cept and combination of gutmonths pregnant, you realize that busting humour, after-school spenext time you have to be a little cial parody and clever historical wiser with your choices. I really references failed to bring in a solid hope that metaphor made sense to audience. It was cancelled after you. only thirteen episodes. But Clone I think I’m going to go get a High’s short run is certainly worth snack. Well, good luck with everychecking out for its crazy laughs A WASTE OF TIME Some should’ve stayed, but some, like Glee, need to go. thing!
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spring 2012
EYE OFTHE TIGER
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A miracle the size of a whale, or three A must-see, touching story of saving three whales. BY LAUREN MALYK OPINION CONTRIBUTOR
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hen an individual thinks of the word miracle, solving world hunger or a cure for cancer are common ideas. People don’t usually see saving three whales as an extraordinary event. The film Big Miracle based on the best-selling book Free The Whales by Tom Rose, takes place beneath the sea and follows the story of three exceptional mammals. The mission to save these creatures
trapped in an icy prison was called “Operation Breakthrough” and takes place near the Beaufort Sea in Point Barrow, Alaska in 1988. Looking back at this international affair to save the gray whales it’s clear that this was the real miracle that contributed to change from the year 1988. This tale starts out with the main character Adam Carlson, played by John Krasinski, an ambitious news reporter looking for his big break. The real story starts when Carlson sees water being blown into the air from a hole in the ice caused by three trapped whales while filming
The Hunger Games: “May the odds be in your favour!” The ever-popular and exciting tale that many are sure to love! BY YARDEN LEVY ENTERTAINMENT CONTRIBUTOR
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uzanne Collins’ The Hunger Games originally released a modest sum of 200,000 copies of the books for readers to enjoy. Six years later this novel has sold over 2.9 million copies, and has won countless titles and awards such as The New York Times “Notable Children’s book of 2008,” the Golden Duck Award in 2009, the California Young Reader Medal in 2011, and much more. I bet you must be wondering how this novel gained so much popularity. Well, The Hunger Games trilogy follows the life of a sixteen year old protagonist Katniss Everdeen, who lives in a post-apocalyptic society called Panem, which was formerly known as North America. Panem is controlled by a corrupt government known as the Capitol, which instils fear upon the other twelve districts that Panem is made up of. Furthermore, these districts are alienated from one another, and each specializes in one duty, such as mining, electronics, or gathering. These skills are used to battle one another once a year during the annual “Hunger Games.” Thus, one boy, and one girl are each randomly selected from their districts, and are forced to fight to their deaths, until only one remains. This selec-
tion known as the “reaping” forces Katniss to volunteer after her sister was originally chosen to compete in the Games. But I’m not going to ruin the rest of the story for you, I highly suggest you read the book, or at least watch the movie. The book possessed an intriguing way to relate Panem’s society with ours today. Obviously North America can’t relate to Panem’s complete dictatorship; however it correlates to the message of control. The Capitol’s sense of power in The Hunger Games illustrates the hierarchy of power that can be seen in all societies. In fact, Collins thought of the idea of the novel when noticing the similarities between the news and reality shows on television, describing that they “began to blur in this very unsettling way.” Now, before you run to your nearest bookstore, you may have heard through advertising, that there will be a movie based on the book. And yes, it is true The Hunger Games movie is being released on March 23 2012, with hit-stars like Jennifer Lawrence playing our beloved Katniss Everdeen, Josh Hutcherson as the charming Peeta Mellark and Gale, who competes with Peeta for Katniss’s love, played by Liam Hemsworth. However, make sure not to set your hopes too high. As everybody knows, all the books are far more superior to their movie counterparts.
footage for another story. Everyone is immediately taken aback by the situation at hand as Carlson reports the news. The story instantly becomes a growing concern for people all over the world. As publicity grows, Rachel Kramer, portrayed by Drew Barrymore, the head of the environmental group Greenpeace and Carlson’s ex-girlfriend, becomes devoted to saving the whales. Soon Rachel Kramer and Adam Carlson team up in what was the biggest story of 1988. Greenpeace devises the plan of using the U.S. National Guard to tow an ice
breaker to break the frozen water for the mammals. Soon our protagonists face politicians, environmentalists, natives, the press and the rest of the world. The film takes a turn for the worse when the community is pressed for time as the ice will freeze over in two days time. As for the real star of the show, Barrymore puts on a great performance with her passion. She took on a difficult and unusual role as the fearless, big mouthed environmentalist Kramer and deserves some recognition. Krasinski on the other hand as the main character was lacking in emotion throughout
dramatic scenes within the story. Big Miracle possesses the qualities of a blockbuster despite the fact that it’s a family oriented movie. It’s a feel good movie with just enough dramatic flair to make it a must see. It’s the perfect example of the struggle and power a group with varying opinions has when they work together for a cause. The obstacle to save the lives of the whales create unlikely alliances as the world watches with awe at this historic event. The film proved that the saving of the whales truly was a big miracle.
How to succeed in business without really trying
JUMP TO THE TOP JUST BY FOLLOWING A BOOK Or by watching this amazing play filled with lots of laughs! An incredible musical with however. The cast has said that has major hopes in Finch. As the they are thrilled to have Jonas on book tells him, Finch climbs the an interesting concept that set. Jonas himself is also delighted corporate ladder, but does not do is bound to amaze all audi- to be on Broadway and playing the much real work. Later he faces a character of such as successful few obstacles dealing with Hedy La ences! show. Rue and Mr. Ovington, an execuBY PRISCILLA LAY This remarkable play was in- tive Finch sees as a rival. Eventually ENTERTAINMENT CONTRIBUTOR spired from a book by Abe Bur- Finch realizes it may have become o you like musicals? How rows, Jack Weinstock and Willie a fatal mistake for not reading far about a lot of people danc- Gilbert. It was turned into a musi- enough into the book, for he has to ing and singing in suits? If cal in 1961. choose to either keep climbing to you do, How to Succeed in The play takes upon young man, the top, or to keep the love of his Business without Really Trying is J. Pierrepont Finch who took advice life, Rosemary. from the book, How to Succeed in Lots of laughs will bring the authe show for you! The role of main character J. Business without Really Trying, dience much further into the story, Pierrepont Finch has been played which tells every reader that they and lead to even more enjoyment. by great actors such as Daniel Rad- can climb the corporate ladder. Even though this play is titled as cliffe and Darren Criss. Recently, Shortly after, he enters the World comedic, at the end it draws down Nick Jonas has taken on the role, Wide Company in search for a posi- to a dramatic scene. There is no much to the delight of his fans. The tion. When Finch is hired, he meets doubt that this play will end in fans are not the only happy ones, secretary Rosemary Pilkington who cheers and applause!
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Chris Brown and Rihanna reunited once again... in a song. The reunion that no one thought would happen has come to be… more than once. BY WEINI MENGHESHA ENTERTAINMENT CONTRIBUTOR
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HUNGRY FOR SOME ADVENTURE? You won’t want to miss the movie!
es, it’s finally happened. Former pop couple Rihanna and Chris Brown have both joined forces on not one, but two smash hits that have been burning up the radio. Rihanna joined Chris Brown on the latter’s new single, “Turn Up The Music,” and Chris hopped on the newly released extended version of the fan requested “Birthday Cake.” As was expected, the two received a large amount of backlash, most of which was directed at Rihanna. The pop superstar was bombarded with horrendous tweets and emails, with people saying that she was dumb, that she deserved to be hit again, that she was setting a horrible example, that the message she was sending was
that anyone in a violent relationship was doomed to return and die there, that she had no self-respect, and so forth. Even before the two remixes were released, Billboard wrote two enormously long letters (one addressed to Rihanna, and one addressed to Chris) that told her what she should and should not do, how she should and should not act, and how she should and should not live her life. But who is anyone to dictate how the two are to live their lives? The anger was mostly in response to the rumours that the pair were back together, not that they had just released two incredible collaborations. This rumour is, at the moment, completely false as Chris Brown is dating Karrueche Tran, a model and his long term girlfriend. Neither Chris, Rihanna, anyone in the families or their camps have even mentioned a possible reunion for the former couple, and the only ones claiming them to be are so far from the situation that they are practically irrelevant.
Both remixes have received rave reviews from fans and critics alike and have received an astronomical amount of radio-play. “Birthday Cake,” a much more sexual, and Rrated song comes with a great beat, awesome vocals and hot lyrics. “Turn Up The Music” is a more family-friendly track, with pounding beats that would be right at home at any party and lyrics that make you want to dance wherever you are. If you have your doubts about them being friends, the one thing you can’t possibly deny is that they create wonderful music together. Regardless, these new collaborations are the first of many that we will hear, and contrary to what the media would have you believe, they promote forgiveness. The two have both moved past their personal struggles and are focusing on what counts: their blossoming careers and music. It might not be a bad thing after all, because at the end of the day, isn’t that all we really want from them?
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Is there such thing as superior music? A gentle debate about the ins and outs of today’s popular music. BY ANDREA HOWARD & JESSICA WU ENTERTAINMENT CONTRIBUTORS
Four albums to look for in 2012 WTT sequel, full-length Willow album among highlights.
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o answer this question, we must first ask ourselves: what defines good music? Much like art, music is an aesthetic that is almost entirely preferential. In our western culture we have such a wide array of genres: pop, punk, metal, techno, rock, folk, jazz, country; the list is infinite. So how can we possibly justify which is better? We must first establish a set of criteria for this socalled "good" music. It must first and foremost satisfy an emotion. It must also contain some sort of an underlying message and lastly, hold sufficient technicality. Good music MUST evoke some sort of feeling, or what good is it for? Whether it makes you feel sad, isolated, confused or simply joyous, there must be an emotion attached. If there is absolutely no feeling, there is a problem. Although terribly clichéd, Rebecca Black’s “Friday” is a prime example of emotionless filth. This is such an instance of a song that depends on false sentiment, with absolutely no focus on the human condition. No one can deny the absolute lack of talent that it takes this washed-up star to utter, “Fun, fun, fun, fun!” This is precisely the reason why popular music faces such criticism. But conversely, who are we to judge what music has feeling opposed to what doesn’t? Everyone is inherently different, so feeling is very difficult to gauge. On the contrary, social commentary and worldly affairs address the entire human population and is not exclusive to one person or another. Songs that convey these sorts of messages or ideas possess a depth that allows the listener to connect and therefore, understand and enjoy. Look at Bob Dylan, Rage Against the Machine, the Sex Pistols and Tupac. These are artists that are primarily known for their criticism on government, war, social justice et al. However, it is technicality which separates the pros from the amateurs. Artistic talent, unique instrumentals, complex time signatures, and overall individuality make or break an artist. Although we adore Bob Dylan, his questionable vocals and simplistic, repetitive musical arrangements are his fatal flaws. In contrast, bands like Pink Floyd create intricate and experimental masterpieces (albeit sometimes strange), which contain layers upon layers of carefully crafted sound. That is exactly the reason why they garner such praise. Does it make them superior to other musicians? We think so, at least on the technical side of things. But can we go as far to say that less technical music is entirely inferior? To an extent, yes. Some songs are simply better than others, which is why we can say without remorse that “Friday” is plainly atrocious. It is simply illogical to say that Black's vocals are on the same level with that of Christina Aguilera’s. Or that the struggling drummer in your uncle's garage band has the same musicianship as Rush’s Neil Peart. We can unanimously agree that singers that can't sing, musicians that can't play, and lyrics that make no sense fit under the umbrella of "bad" music. And sometimes, these are things that are easy to judge. There are, after all, chord progressions, voices, and sounds that are scientifically more pleasing to the ear, and we gain no benefit trying to argue with science. This, in a sense, justifies that popular opinion is often correct.
spring 2012
BY PETER DROHAN ENTERTAINMENT CONTRIBUTOR
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011 saw some great releases with Watch the Throne, Adele’s award-winning 21 and highly anticipated second album from Toronto native Drake. 2012 is shaping up to be even better. Some of the highlights include:
POPULAR MUSIC Today’s music has transformed since the good, old days. The argument this proposes, behind their name - after all, they however, is musical superiority have listened to more music, which based on sheer popularity. Con- gives them more authority to judge, versely, one could argue that the even if the matter is such a subjeclowest common denominator of tive topic. And subsequently, the music is the stuff you hear on the same applies to music “hipsters.” radio. It's been watered down to These very people are generally appeal to the masses, an ideology much more knowledgeable on muthat many an elitist may possess. In sic than the average Joe or Mary. past generations, urban and rap Now, that must come with some music was seen as inferior kitsch, merit, hence the snotty, holier-than but as time has progressed, this -thou attitude towards their music form of music has actually taken tastes. over the mainstream. A lot of rap This is perfectly understandable, today seems to be preoccupied just like someone who is proficient with themes of misogyny, violence in computers may scoff at those and money- crude and offensive who are still adamant on using content that have stirred the public Internet Explorer. But often, this too many times to count. But dig behaviour crosses over to the obdeeper under the surface and find scene. For example, it is a common that there is a lot more to rap than stereotype that those who prefer meets the eye. Some fans of rap are indie music believe that underlikely to express a dislike for the ground, undiscovered bands are lewd rhymes of megastar Lil' superior. Sometimes they comWayne, and instead prefer the pletely reject the notion of beats of golden age groups like A "mainstream" music; in fact, popuTribe Called Quest or the Wu-Tang. lar music is almost seen as a genre Now, on the opposite side of the in itself, with a certain stereotype spectrum, we have classical music. attached to it as well. Quite laughMany agree that it possesses the able is the fact that indie has most intricate musical arrange- evolved into a sound rather than ments, and is therefore “superior”. the initial definition of belonging to Classical artists don’t depend on an independent record label, the gimmicks, media attention, and same idea behind “alternative” publicity stunts to sell their music. music, which is overprescribed the It is simply raw skill and aptitude. same way doctors administer antiBut here lies the problem. If classi- biotics. A little ironic, maybe? cal music is by far the most techniUp until the 60s, there were no cally superior genre, why isn’t it silly labels, no such uptight cataplayed on the radio? Why isn’t it loguing on the word “genre”. The popular? Amongst the youth, it is entire idea of "classic rock" was just generally dismissed as boring and a term created by media mavens to archaic. People find it difficult to categorize the popular music of relate to. Still, there is classical style that time to an easy radio-friendly music being made. Is its lack of format. Adapting this approach to popularity based on the fact that it music today, we see that music is not on the same par as the cate- categorization is entirely senseless. gory giants that dominated in the It seems that judging music can older days? Or is it because they never be done successfully as indiweren’t the ones to start the move- vidual bias always intrudes, and ment and consequently, don’t opinion can never be accurately boast the name, but have the tal- justified. ent? Clearly there is a more social Music means something differaspect of good music- relative to ent for every single person. For us, cultural influence and societal music must have a lot of thought norms. put into it; it must be made by acAlso to blame is the constant complished musicians who think reinforcement of genre and label outside the box. For another, music stereotypes, not just by corpora- could be completely about dancing tions, but embraced by music lov- and having fun. Or perhaps it's ers themselves. Genres with names gentle and pleasant background like “intelligent dance music” and noise. Each are correct in their own “transcendental black metal” at- right, so why must we be constantly tach a sense of elitism and superi- trying to prove a genre or band ority with their music, prompting superior? Why can't music lovers the questions: “Is dance music out- enjoy and appreciate music for side this genre stupid?” and “Are what it is? Regardless, at the end of other metal subgenres more shal- the day, loving "good" music is low and one-dimensional?” nothing to write home about. It seems like music critics are the You're not making it, just simply ones judging our music nowadays, appreciating it. It’s really up to you. and we seem to eagerly agree with So let's all get over ourselves and everything they say. It is true that just kick back to a handful of good such people have more credibility tunes.
1. Jay-Z & Kanye West It’s going to be a busy year for world-renowned rapper Jay-Z. His wife, hip-hop artist Beyonce, gave birth to their first child, Blue Ivy Carter in January. If fatherhood wasn’t enough, he has also announced a solo album. Little is known about the album, since Jay has only revealed to MTV that he has recorded around three songs, one of which features OFWGKTA member Frank Ocean. This will be his twelfth studio album, and is due out in spring. Fresh off nominations for Best Rap Album and Best Recording Package and receiving awards for Best Rap Performance and Best Rap Song at the Grammy Awards, the Kanye West and Jay-Z collaboration will produce a sequel to their acclaimed freshman album, Watch the Throne. In the same interview with MTV, Jay stated he and Kanye are still “in Throne Mode.” Furthering the excitement, Jay also stated: “You might see a Jay, then Kanye and a Throne album next year. You know, we're really in a great place creatively. We really found our zone." Hip-hop fans are sure to be glued to their Twitter feeds, as more information on the album will be released soon. Not to be forgotten, Kanye West also plans to release his sixth studio album on his own record label, GOOD Music. The only details have been released from West’s Twitter account, from which he stated: “GOODMUSIC. THE ALBUM. SPRING 2012.”
2. The xx Up-and-coming pop trifecta The xx plan to release their sophomore album in May. Their unique blend of electronica and alternative rock can only be described a mixture of deadmau5 and the Moldy Peaches (as peculiar as it is, it works). Their first album, xx, received much critical acclaim, resulting in placement on many “Top Albums of the Year” lists in 2009, including NME, Pitchfork Media, The Guardian and the Chicago Tribune. A single from the new album, titled “Open Eyes” was posted to the band’s website in late December. In an interview with the Creators Project blog, frontman Jamie Smith disclosed the new album’s sound was greatly impacted by club music, a change from the relaxing pace of xx and the first single released. After the dramatic success of their first album, it’s likely The xx’s next album will garner even more praise. 3. Willow Smith There comes a point in the career of every pop artist that elevates them to stardom, or sinks them to one-hit-wonder status. That point for Willow Smith comes in the form of her first full-length album titled Knees and Elbows, hitting stores April 3. Smith has released two singles (“21st Century Girl” and “Fireball,” which features Grammy performer Nicki Minaj) since her wildly successful single “Whip My Hair” debuted in October. Neither have received anywhere near the same level of success, possible foreshadowing for the soon-to-bereleased album. 4. Born Ruffians Lastly, pop-rock quartet Born Ruffians plan to release their third album in 2012. While there is no set release date as of this writing, pictures of the band’s Twitter page reveal that they are currently in the middle of recording. The band performed three new songs during a string of concerts with fellow Canadian rockers Tokyo Police Club and Said the Whale.
ON THE LOOKOUT Some artists whose albums you can expect very soon.
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spring 2012
EYE OFTHE TIGER
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Rocksmith: Learning from playing It’s just like Guitar Hero, but with one major difference: you actually learn how to play the guitar. BY MISHA OKNER ENTERTAINMENT CONTRIBUTOR
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ou're bored on a Saturday night and you're itching to play some video games. Sure, you could pick up any generic firstperson-shooter and exchange virtual gunfire with an online opponent. You could explore the rich fantasy environments of roleplaying-games like Skyrim and World of Warcraft, mastering swordfighting and assisting locals with quests. Or, you could exercise your mind with a round of Tetris or virtual chess. Yet, with all of the games out there, are there any that offer more than just entertainment? Rocksmith is not your average video game. What appears to be just another Rock Band/Guitar Hero style rhythm game is actually a tool that could teach you to play guitar. Yes! A real, honest-togoodness, without a shadow of a doubt, guitar! If you have a guitar with a standard 6.35 mm output jack, you can connect it with the quarter-inch to USB cable (the USB part connects to your console) and begin playing. If you don't have a guitar, there is a Rocksmith guitar bundle that comes with the game, the cable, a guitar strap, some picks, and, most importantly, a Gibson Epiphone Les Paul Junior guitar, perfect for the beginner. The bundle is currently priced at $200, which should be affordable to people who want to begin learning guitar. However, there are a few important things to know before you buy this game. For one, if you are already an experienced guitar player, you will obviously not receive the same benefits from this game that a beginner would. Also, this game does not support bass guitars."
Only six-string electric (and in some cases acoustic, if it has an output to put the quarter-inch cable into) guitars. The developers have stated that they might be adding support and content for bass guitars sometime in the future, although it is unknown whether they will add it in DLC form and make a separate game for it, or if they will follow through with it or not. Right when you start the game, it asks you to "make some noise.” To accomplish this difficult task, you must strum the strings of the guitar loudly. It then explains the interface, which shows the neck of the guitar with the fret numbers and a different colour to represent each of the 6 strings: red for 6th (top string), yellow for 5th, blue for 4th, orange for 3rd, green for 2nd, and purple for 1st (bottom string). The notes come down a note highway in a certain fret column, similar to the Rock Band/ Guitar Hero games; the note being a colour of a string, indicating what string you have to strum, and depending on what fret column it's in, that is where you have to hold down your finger. For example: a red note comes down the 2nd fret, meaning that you have to put your finger on the 2nd fret of the 6th string (the top one). There is also an option to invert the display to make it look like a tab chart, making it less confusing to the people who have a bit of experience. From there on, those single notes turn into complex chords as you play more complex songs. Before you play each song, the game will check if your guitar is in tune, and if that specific song needs to be tuned to another key, it will tell you how to tune it in that key. It starts you off slow, putting only a few notes on the screen at a time, but as you get better, it puts more notes on the screen for you to play. This is called "Adaptive Difficulty.” It keeps track of how well you're doing and adjusts to your skill level,
giving you more challenge as you improve, and making it easier as you begin to have difficulty playing complex note formations and chords. Unlike Rock Band and Guitar Hero, you don't select a difficulty level because of the very handy “Adaptive Difficulty,” and the song doesn't stop and take you to a game over screen if you do badly. The A.D. is there with you like the encouraging sibling, as its name suggests, adapting to your level of skill to help you improve. Once you master a song, you have the option of playing it in master mode, which is just the interface screen and the virtual audience. There aren't any notes coming down for you to play anymore; it's just you playing the full song by yourself. After you finish playing that first song, you are brought to the main menu, where it keeps track of your Rocksmith Points. These are used to unlock new songs, minigames, and technique challenges. It also has a store that you can buy new songs from (with real world money), some being available for free. These include other classic and metal songs that weren't added in the initial release, and others that are being requested by players that I assume will be coming soon. Some of the songs that are already there include: "The House of the Rising Sun" by The Animals, "In Bloom" by Nirvana, "I Got Mine" by The Black Keys, "Unnatural Selection" by Muse, and more. Unfortunately, it still does not have as many songs as Rock Band and Guitar Hero, and I doubt it will reach the number of songs they have had over the course of their time in the games market. The songs currently in the game are enough for people like me, who bought it to learn, meaning that not having that many songs could be a plus (or a neutral point for that matter). There are also "Guitar-cade" minigames that are unlocked as you play more that focus on a cer-
tain aspect of playing guitar. "Ducks" is a game that focuses on fret placement; you have to shoot the ducks by strumming only one string with that fret before the ducks reach the bottom. "Super Ducks" is a variation of Ducks that includes all of the strings. "Dawn of the Chordead" is a game where you have to play a certain chord to activate guns that shoot the zombies before they reach the bottom of the screen. It will display the name of the chord right before it shows you the chord formation on the guitar neck, so if you recognise that chord (with time and experience you will), you can play it instantly. "Harmonically Challenged" shows you a series of harmonics that you have to repeat, Simon-says-style. Other minigames include "Super Slider", "Scale Runner", "Quick Pick Dash", and "Big Swing Baseball", the total being 8 minigames. Technique Challenges are different from the minigames in the fact that they actually explain the various techniques in more depth and include techniques that they probably couldn't have made a minigame out of, such as hammerons/pull-offs, bends, sustains, palm muting, power chords, etc. The technique challenges are the boring and complex techniques that all guitarists must learn, and it certainly isn't easy. Performing proper bends, getting oriented with correct chords, all that stuff is why some people are turned off by learning guitar, or anything with boring and complex techniques for that matter. So how does Rocksmith handle these techniques? Pretty well. It first shows you a video explaining how the technique works and starts off with a warm up to see if you understood. If you didn't do it correctly or if you missed the note, it will rewind to that point and wait until you do it again. Afterwards, it goes on to the full challenge and starts giving you points for real. Finally, there is an "Amp Mode.”
Amp Mode works as an amp, letting you play anything you want while letting you experiment with different sounds. As you progress in the game, you unlock new guitar sounds and amp pedals, which are then ready to be played, mixed, and experimented with. You can also assign different amps and sounds to the face buttons of your controller: X, Y, and B for 360, and Square, Triangle, and Circle for PS3. These sounds can be activated anytime and anywhere during play, (e.g. in the middle of a song). This is a great mode for trying out new sounds, and testing out your skills to see what you've learned. Despite its positive points, it does have a few shortcomings. On HDTVs or anything using an HDMI cable, there is some lag right before you play the note coming down the note highway. The virtual stages and band trailers you play in are kind of bland and not really eyecatching, although this shouldn't be a problem in a game that has the main purpose of teaching you guitar. Its biggest flaw is the fact that during play, you don't get much of an opportunity to look at the guitar itself. There's a lot of emphasis at looking at the screen to see the upcoming notes or technique demonstrations that new players might find disorienting. Looking at the guitar is an essential part of learning, and although they pretty much got down every other aspect of learning, they just forgot the one. For people who are interested in getting Rocksmith to learn, or even just getting a guitar to learn without the game, know this: learning guitar is a slow process, and everyone learns at their own pace. It takes dedication if you want to learn it badly enough. Just remember that this is all part of the learning process, and Rocksmith understands that, which I feel is this game's strongest point. For anyone interested to start playing, this is worth checking out.
The Legend of Zelda – 25 years of legendary gaming: part 2 A look back to one of the most influential game series of all time ... again. BY ISAAC TAM ENTERTAINMENT CONTRIBUTOR
H
ere is the second part to the article from last issue. It will cover the rest of The Legend of Zelda’s games and further look at ways Nintendo has decided to celebrate 25 years of gaming. The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker, released in 2002 for Gamecube sparked much controversy over its new look – the introduction of cel-shading graphics and its result of Toon Link, a rather odd reimagining of the realistic Link. Nonetheless, the game became a beloved experience among fans as Link travelled the seas to find his kidnapped sister. In 2004, two games were released – The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords Adventures for Gamecube and The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap for Game Boy Advanced. Four Swords was a rather shallow game as it didn’t have a real story. Minish Cap was a Capcom game that introduced having to shrink down to ant size in order to discover secrets and to progress through the game. It`s rather unique to the series. In 2006, The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess was released for the Wii and Gamecube and was the first to use motion controls to play the game. The motion controls gave the game new depth as you play with the Wii remote as your sword and the nunchuk accessory as your shield. A truly epic game
that boasted the realistic graphics that hardcore fans wanted since Majora`s Mask. Twilight Princess was named Game of the Year for 2006. In 2007 and 2009, two DS Zelda games were made, The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass and The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks. Both these games were innovations of handheld gaming, as players were able to direct Link’s movement and attack using the stylus on the touch screen. 2011 has become the year for Zelda, celebrating its 25th anniversary with the release of three games: The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D, The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords Adventures Anniversary Edition and the game that has been 5 years in development, The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword. Ocarina of Time 3D is basically a remake of the classic game but with 3D graphics making it even more colourful and magical while Four Swords Adventures Anniversary Edition is another remake of the original for download on the 3DS. But the game that every Zelda fan had been waiting for was Skyward Sword, a triumphant return to the console after a five year hiatus since Twilight Princess. Skyward Sword is the second game to utilise the Motion Plus accessory for the Wii to control your sword on a 1:1 interface, the first being Wii Sports Resort. You literally control the sword in this game. You slice horizontally and Link’s sword slices horizontally. This goes the same for every single directional slice that is available. The game now focuses
on swordplay, making it an even more intimate game experience as you are now one with Link, the hero of the game. Skyward Sword takes place above the clouds, on a floating island called Skyloft. Here, Link is a knight in training and a childhood friend of Zelda who, this time, is not a princess! The Skyloftians ride on giant birds called Loftwings (a salute to Avatar) as they soar above the clouds enjoying their normal lives. But no one knows what is on the surface below and no one wants to find out for it is rumoured to be inhabited by vile creatures. In fact, the Skyloftians don’t even know why or how Skyloft stays afloat. But fate plays a part when Zelda is whisked away by a tornado and falls below the clouds, to unknown surfaces. Link is guided by a spirit who shares with him valuable information through the course of the game as he searches for his friend, and ends up being entwined in a story much larger than he is. This is a game that will explain the creation of the Master Sword and many other origins that have been left in the games of the past (Note: Games are not made in chronological order. There is a huge debate on where each game comes in the series and Skyward Sword is believed to be the first in the timeline). This is a beautiful game, aesthetically and story wise. The game follows the look of impressionist art, using striking and exaggerated colours to paint the worlds of Skyloft and the surface below. This is the greatest looking Zelda game and could well be the best looking game for Wii. But looks are just a
topper for the amazing story Skyward Sword presents. Fans and new players can look forward to an intimacy between characters far deeper than any game there ever was. With the higher focus on storytelling and narration, the characters in the game grow on you with their different personalities and flaws, making for an even more believable experience. Game controls work like a dream, using the Wii Motion Plus accessory to its fullest potential. Almost every task involves using precise motion controls, guiding Link around the surface world. In my opinion, it is the greatest Zelda game created. Although it didn’t win game of the year for 2011, it still is a very special game. To even further celebrate the 25th anniversary of Zelda, full sized orchestras are going around touring all over the world, playing the music that has defined Zelda.
There has been one in London, Hollywood, Tokyo, Los Angeles, and Dallas and more to come. Additionally, an orchestral CD was included with the release of Skyward Sword that features the orchestra music of all the games. Zelda has long been one of the most endearing game series ever created, with Nintendo spinning out hit after hit, each game as great as the one before. The innovation this series has presented has changed the gaming industry, from the creation of saving, to the idea of epic boss battles, rolling landscapes, exploring and to even musical interaction. On December 10, 2011, the Zelda franchise became the first inductee to the Video Game Hall of Fame. If you have not played a Zelda game, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and try it. You will not be disappointed with the series and you might find new love with the series.
WHOLE NEW WORLD There are many places to explore in the Zelda world.
fun & games
spring 2012
SUDOKU
Fill in the blank squares so that each row, each column and each 3-by-3 block contain all of the digits 1 through 9. Numbers cannot be repeated; use the existing numbers to help you.
JIGOKU
Fill in the blank squares so that each row, each column and each 3-by-3 block contain all of the digits 1 through 9. > and < connections between squares indicate that one number is greater than or less than another.
CROSSWORD
Across 1. Some required reading 9. They might raise quarters 15. Accumulated 16. Kitchen gadgets 17. Sophocles work 18. Minister, at times 19. Weapons prog. Since 1983 20. Noted adviser 22. Moved, nautically speaking 24. Cultivate 25. Those, to Tomás 26. Clears 28. Where the Gurkha reigned 30. Chinchilla, for one 32. Abject 34. Let go 35. 50’s FireFlite 38. Violent, perhaps 40. Rock blasters? 41. More than uncooperative 45. Crude meas. 46. Put on a new staff 47. “No way!” 50. Provoked response 52. Euterpe, e.g. 54. Unique 56. “All About Eve” actress 59. Rope used in sailing 60. Organ stop 61. Result of plotting, perhaps 63. One who hoots 64. Disney Studios employee 65. Least common 66. Quit
Down 1. Market problem 2. “I Was a Teen-Age Werewolf” star, 1957 3. Kind of ingredient 4. Word with bum or honey 5. Sonic the Hedgehog maker 6. “___ Wanna Cry,” 1991 #1 song 7. Art 8. Spoke literally 9. Created a web site? 10. Bach contemporary 11. Old Dodge 12. Modify equipment, in a way 13. Urgency 14. Abbr. on old maps 21. Food for Fido 23. Community spirit 27. Met 29. Uttar Pradesh city 31. River to the Mississippi 33. Protuberance 34. “Porky” 35. Apply gently 36. Adopted 37. Set, in a way 39. Genetic stuff 42. 19th-centuray educator Willard 43. Slip 44. Flash 46. “Speed” actor 48. Completely 49. Proceed so as to avoid radar detection 51. Hunting device 53. Like a Dean Koontz novel 55. Long 57. One of the Bobbsey twins 58. Garage feature 60. Eye, in Iberia 62. Ill-done
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SLITHERLINK
Horizontally or vertically connect adjacent dots to form a path that forms a single loop, without crossing itself, or branching. The numbers indicate how many lines surround each cell (only 0-3 are permitted).