The Community Edition: December 2016

joyeux noël

VOLUME 5, ISSUE 3 • DECEMBER 2016

DECEMBER 2016 // @THECOMMUNITYED

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Volume 5, Issue 3 Next issue: January 4, 2017 75 University Ave. W Waterloo, ON N2L 3C5 519-884-0710 x3564 Advertising All advertising inquiries should be directed to Care Schummer at 519-884-0710 x3560 care.schummer@wlusp.com THE COMMUNITY EDITION TEAM Editor in Chief Jesse Bauman jesse.bauman@wlusp.com Publisher Lakyn Barton lakyn.barton@wlusp.com

General Inquiries info@communityedition.ca Web Manager Care Schummer care.schummer@wlusp.com

Social Media Manager Megan Nourse

CONTRIBUTORS Elizabeth DiCesare Chloe France Marika Galadza Emily Gleeson Meg Harder James Howe Stacey Jacobs Susan Koswan Allison Leonard

Adam Lewis Zainab Mahdi Sam Nabi Kristen Philippi John Roche Eva Rucki Dylan Siebert Matt Smith Cara Vandermey

WLUSP ADMINISTRATION President Executive Director Advertising Manager Treasurer Vice-Chair Director Director Director Corporate Secretary

Meghan Roach Lakyn Barton Care Schummer John Pehar Abdiasis Issa Mynt Marsellus Maddy Cutts Matthew Burley Taylor Berzins

The Community Edition is an alternative monthly intended to engage and inform the community.

Started in 2012, the Community Edition is an editorially independent newspaper published by Wilfrid Laurier University Student Publications, Waterloo, a corporation without share capital. WLUSP is governed by its board of directors.

Opinions expressed within the Community Edition are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the editorial board, The Cord, WLUSP, WLU or Centra Web. All content appearing in the Community Edition bears the copyright expressly of their creator(s) and may not be used without written consent.

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

Preamble to the Community Edition Constitution The Community Edition will keep faith with its readers by presenting news and expressions of opinions comprehensively, accurately and fairly. The Community Edition believes in a balanced and impartial presentation of all relevant facts in a news report, and of all substantial opinions in a matter of controversy.

The staff of the Community Edition shall uphold all commonly held ethical conventions of journalism. When an error of omission or of commission has occurred, that error shall be acknowledged promptly. When statements are made that are critical of an individual, or an organization, we shall give those affected the opportunity to reply at the earliest time possible. Ethical journalism requires impartiality, and consequently conflicts of interest and the appearance of conflicts of interest will be avoided by all staff. The only limits of any newspaper are those of the world around it, and so the Community Edition will attempt to cover its world with a special focus on the community of Waterloo Region. Ultimately, the Community Edition will be bound by neither philosophy nor geography in its mandate.

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

FREE WORKPLACE COMMUNICATION CLASSES For permanent residents with a professional background in the health care industry or working with youth. For more information, contact Marta Wilkinson at OSLT@conestogac.on.ca or 416-729-2806.

Where once there were holes there are now wider sidewalks. Uptown is open to vehicle traffic, again, though the construction is far from over. MATT SMITH PHOTO

FEATURE

8-9 A NOT EXTRAVAGANT HOLIDAY GUIDE HAVE FUN, STAY OUT OF DEBT

INSIDE 3 4 5 6 6 7 10 10 11 11 12 12 13 14 15

IN BRIEF REGIONAL HIP HOP SUBSIDIZING TRANSIT BEING MUSLIM AFTER TRUMP GOOD GRIEF, OR HOW TO MOURN TCE FICTION SEED SAVERS SAVE THE WORLD ON MALE BIRTH CONTROL ARTIN’ AROUND WITH DONNA LITT LOCAL ELECTORAL REFORM QUANTUM ON DISPLAY BRIDGING DIGITAL DIVIDES CHICKEN COUTURE GIVING WELL TCE DRAWS: OONA MOON

DECEMBER 2016 // COMMUNITYEDITION.CA

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IN BRIEF

Remember skating? MATT SMITH PHOTO

NEWS

ARTS

URBAN

BEFORE NEW YEAR, NEW HOMES

CREATIVE HUB IN KITCHENER?

HOUSING MARKET STILL HOT

According to Reception House staff, at least 200 government assisted refugees are set to arrive in Waterloo Region before the end of the year. While some families are likely to come from Syria, staff at local agencies serving refugees point out that there are many people in many countries who need to be permanently resettled in a safe country.

City of Kitchener staff are recommending the City sell its heritage property at 48 Ontario Street to fund the creation of a creative hub at 44 Gaukel Street, downtown Kitchener. The hub would make our community more creative. Some say 48 Ontario is birthplace of the blues in Kitchener, though what does that even mean?

Year-to-date, the Kitchener-Waterloo Association of Realtors reports a 19 per cent increase of homes sold in KW compared to 2015. The average price of residential properties sold through the association has also increased by 15.5 percent to $411,603. Sales of condominiums are down, though, along with the average condo sale price.

UPTOWN STREETS NOW FREE & EASY

STUDENT LAUNCH- CONTAINERS CAN ES “WE MATTER” BE HOUSES TOO

That most hallowed stretch of King Street uptown Waterloo, from Union to Erb Street, is now open to automobile traffic. The main thoroughfare had been closed for almost a year, and according to the UpTown Waterloo Business Improvement Area had a significant impact on the affected businesses. Sidewalks are wider, but there’s still plenty of construction to finish.

Tunchai Redvers is a masters of social work student at Wilfrid Laurier University, and with her brother recently launched a multi-media campaign for indigenous youth entitled “We Matter.” Their website includes videos from people with shared experiences, including famous folks like A Tribe Called Red and Wab Kinew and others who deserve to be famous soon.

Kitchener planning staff are recommending the temporary approval of a zoning exception that would allow the Working Centre to use shipping containers to provide emergency shelter to community members. The bunkies are intended for folks who, for various reasons, do not want to use the traditional shelter system.

The Working Centre will re-evaluate the program in three years.

UBER FINALLY ABOVE BOARD

NEW RULES FOR ARTS FUNDING

BAIT BIKE STING WORKS, MAYBE

As of December 1 the ride-hailing app Uber is legal in the region. Uber publicly presented their business plans to regional council in March of 2015, and then launched in July of that year despite considerable legal ambiguity. People who want to pay for a ride now can choose to support organized labour or a sharing economy that will be the death of us all. We kid! We kid!

The “four pillar culture groups” of Kitchener Waterloo (that’s KWAG, the KW Symphony, Themuseum and the Canadian Clay and Glass Gallery, if you’re unfamiliar with that nomenclature) are now subject to new funding rules. The goal is to improve transparency about the organizations, who together receive about $1.7 million yearly from the Region and cities.

Bike thefts are up in Kitchener Waterloo, and in late November local police planted a “bait” bike downtown to entice thieves. The sting worked, in that the police arrested eight people who together face 37 charges, many of them not relating to bike thefts.

The sting did not work in that it failed to address the reasons why street involved people need to steal bikes to survive.

LINE 9 RESISTANCE IN OTTAWA

NEW LIBRARY IN KITCHENER

PARKING RULES NOW IN EFFECT

Legal experts say that the Chippewas of the Thames First Nation’s fight with the Crown could establish a significant precedent about how Canada regulates or manages industrial activities on indigenous territories. The Chippewas say they were never meaningfully consulted, and reject the National Energy Board’s decision.

Southwest Kitchener is getting a new library — in 2019. The library will be built near Fischer Hallman and Bleams roads, and will be followed by a $5 million community centre, pool and other sports stuff. That part of the city is growing fastest, and residents and councillors say the area is substantially underserviced.

By the time you finish reading this brief, winter parking rules will be in effect in Kitchener, which means no on-street parking between 2:30 a.m. and 6 a.m.

Waterloo has similar rules: no overnight parking during those hours, and those with permits to park overnight have their privileges revoked during “snow events.”

DECEMBER 2016 // @THECOMMUNITYED

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THE HIP HOP THIS REGION BUILT

TCE CATCHES UP WITH A HIP HOP PIONEER AND A SCENE AT A CROSSROADS

SAM NABI CONTRIBUTOR It could seem that hip-hop in Waterloo Region is not what it used to be.

You might, for example, remember a dive bar in Preston called 69 Pickups.

Sharky, a legend of local hip-hop, once held an album release party there.

Four hundred people packed the venue. Rogers TV showed up with their cameras, and ECHO Weekly featured Sharky’s new album on its front page.

This was 2003.

Now, 69 Pickups has been replaced by a nightclub. Rogers TV doesn’t cover local hip-hop shows. ECHO Weekly, the alternative arts and entertainment magazine, folded in 2011.

But this hasn’t stopped Jason Young, a.k.a. Know-It, a local producer whose roots run deep. Talk to any rapper or DJ in town, and you’re likely to discover a connection to Know-It. His hip-hop journey started in Cambridge where, as a 14-year-old kid, he started rapping at a roller-skating rink on Hespeler Road.

“We would bring a demo tape to a guy at the Forum and we’d be like, ‘Yeah, can we perform at the Friday night teen dance?’ And he let us, and we performed there a few times,” Young says.

In November, Know-It released his latest album, The Dialysis Catalogue.

“It’s a collection of some of my favourite songs while I’ve been on kidney dialysis waiting for a transplant.” He spends four days a week at Freeport Hospital. “To tell you the truth, it keeps my mind occupied away from these medical issues. For me, it just comes naturally.”

Know-It produced every song on the album, in collaboration with emcees near and far. The first track, “Life,” features Philadelphia rapper Maine the Medicine, who Young met through mutual friends and who was also once on kidney dialysis.

The album release was held at The Cork Hall, a renovated bar joined to McCabe’s in downtown Kitchener. In addition to the two featured performers (including New York City’s Brooklyn35) there were also three cyphers, where a group of emcees take turns rapping over the beat, 16 bars at a time, for as long as they can keep their flow intact.

The crowd trickled in by ones and twos, sporting new fades and giving handshakes and hugs all around. As soon as the first cypher began, they gravitated to the front of the room.

Phones came out of pockets, held up to the stage with focused determination. These videos were not for snapchat but something more polished.

Andrew Lakes, a.k.a. Lakes, was one of the emcees on the first cypher of

the night. He grew up in Toronto and Montreal, where he was introduced to hip-hop. He describes his first encounter with the genre as a revelation.

“This new outlet came to me, like ‘You can say whatever you want, however you want, in whatever language you want’, and it’s a voice to be heard.”

Lakes admits that he expected to find the tri-cities lacking in culture. But the local hip-hop scene has welcomed him with open arms. He now co-hosts Sound FM’s hip-hop show alongside DJ Carmelo.

“Bottom line, it’s all about KnowIt. Without him I would have never known about Carmelo and this station.

And from there, I can’t tell you how many connections I’ve made through Carmelo and Street Hop. Being involved with it has been huge in making me feel comfortable out here.”

People tend to catch the hip-hop bug at a young age. Kyle Brenton, a.k.a.

Komodo, found that the genre had an equalizing effect. He grew up on Chandler Drive in Kitchener, a multicultural part of the city that is home to many new immigrants.

“There were a bunch of different cultures there, but everyone was into the same shit. We were all playing basketball at the school, rocking baggy clothes, listening to hip-hop. We all liked G-Unit, we all wanted to be hard, we all wanted to be tough... stuff that I really couldn’t relate to, but I wanted to so bad because I thought the stories and their perspectives were cool, to put yourself in those shoes,” says Komodo.

Landing square in the middle of that thug life persona, a local rapper called eSJay released the SJ Jeans Mixtape in the mid 2000s. It was proud, brash gangster rap, and eSJay would go on to tour with G-Unit and Mobb Deep.

Komodo remembers how the SJ Jeans Mixtape sent a ripple of pride through the local hip-hop scene. “A lot of people I knew had older brothers or older friends, and they knew about eSJay too. That was one thing that I remember from my time where I can honestly say there was a physical Kitchener project that influenced people.”

But there are two sides to this phase of Waterloo Region’s hip-hop history.

Rapper and producer Shawn McDaid, a.k.a. Fraction, sees the period from the mid 1990s to the mid 2000s as part of the genre’s downturn.

“When the gangsters came in around the mid 90s, it kind of turned away a lot of the promoters… a lot of these clubs don’t want to entertain hip-hop shows because of some of the negative connotations,” Fraction says.

Lakes echoes the same sentiment, and he’s disappointed that the stereotype has stuck for so long. It’s important that more venues realize today’s hip-hop scene has moved beyond that gangster-rap lifestyle.

“I don’t know too many angry-for-nothing people. We’re in it for the love of it, we’re all grown men

now. We don’t have time to be fighting in parking lots. We all have kids to go home to,” Lakes says.

That’s not to say the hip-hop community has stood still. In recent years, Young organized beat battles with competitors from Guelph, Hamilton, Toronto and Detroit.

Fraction says that “The Tri-City Beat Battle kind of created a community for artists to come, and obviously all those producers will come and bring their people with them. It creates more of a community environment.”

A strong sense of identity and hometown pride are hallmarks of classic hip-hop, which is easy to represent when you’re from New York City or Toronto. Opinion is split on how to represent the 519, though.

Chris Pare, a.k.a. Crispy, is a young rapper from Windsor. After building a following in the Detroit-Windsor hiphop scene, he’s expanding with shows in Waterloo Region.

“For me, it is important. I try to say Windsor in a lot of my stuff, or 519.

See, Windsor is 519 and I rep that hard. And hopefully one day, 519 will be like 313 [the Detroit area code made famous by rappers like Eminem].”

Others aren’t so sure. Sebastian Schallenberg, a.k.a. Young Lungs, is 18 years old. For him, meeting collaborators online has erased that local sense of identity.

“In 2016, for me at least, it doesn’t really matter. Everything I put out there and everything I receive is all on the internet. So regardless of where I’m at, it will be received all over the world from different people,” Young Lungs says.

Similarly, for 19-year-old producer Cian Patterson, local identity isn’t the defining factor. “I’m not the type to shout out ‘Waterloo represent’, or something like that. At the same time, I do think that our city and where we’re from could use more of an identity and more of a musical culture. If there ever is a huge spotlight, I’ll never say I’m from Toronto.”

For Fraction, these differences extend to the music itself. “There is definitely a generational gap when it comes to the music itself. Coming back to the 18-20 year olds... we came up in that boom-bap, hard drum, sample-based hip-hop. Now it’s totally different. Mumble rap is a thing, and the music is just sonically different now.” Or, as Lakes put it to me, “You gotta make love to make a song. And you can’t make love on the internet.”

So hip-hop in Waterloo Region is constantly evolving. There may be disagreements, but I didn’t find any beef between the artists here. Instead, I found a community that resembled a big family, with an old guard itching for a chance to mentor the up-andcomers. The new wave of producers and rappers may be tempted to focus outward, but there’s a lot of love for hip-hop right here in the tri-cities.

The region’s diverse hip hop community includes, from top: Know-It, Shua James and Young Lungs. ADAM MACKENZIE PHOTOS AND BOTTOM PHOTO COURTESY SEBASTIAN SCHALLENBERG

DECEMBER 2016 // COMMUNITYEDITION.CA

MATT SMITH PHOTO

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TIME FOR A FREE RIDE IN WR? COMMUNITY GROUP KEEPS PUSHING COUNCIL FOR TRANSIT SUBSIDIES CHLOE FRANCE CONTRIBUTOR A local anti-poverty group continues to lobby the regional government for free transit for poor people, arguing that, at this point, any additional policy research is delaying the implementation of a program that has been shown to work in other cities.

The Region currently operates a Transit for Reduced Income Program (TRIP), which provides monthly bus passes to adults with low incomes.

In 2013, the region reviewed the program, and 99 per cent of participants stated that the program “had a positive impact on their lives.”

With such encouraging feedback in mind, members of the Alliance Against Poverty asked regional councillors on September 21 to consider free public transit for people on Ontario Works and the Ontario Disability Support Program – to expand a program that they say the Region itself knows to be working but which is still far from perfect.

While the TRIP program currently distributes around 2100 adult bus passes per month, there is also a waitlist of over one year, with over 1000 people waiting their turn. Also, the subsidized passes cost $42, half of the regular fee of the adult bus pass, which AAP group member Oz Cole-Arnal argues is “still outrageous given what poor people on OW or ODSP get per year.”

The AAP’s presentation came as the region was proposing a new transit study, which the group offered to volunteer their time to help conduct.

Since then, AAP members say their proposal has largely been ignored.

Brayden McNeill says that regional council “did not want to have them back on the same topic,” while Cole-Arnal describes their dialogue with regional council as a “glass wall.”

“We speak, it bounces back off,” he says.

Earlier this month the province committed $551,000 to study TRIP again. The one-year study will look at how the program could be improved to assist more residents with low incomes, and the goal is to match the passes more effectively to how participants use them.

Members of AAP also express concerns about future plans to phase out paper bus tickets in favour of creating an electronic fare card. Many social service agencies provide paper tickets to their patrons, and AAP organizer Regan Brusse argues replacing them “will hurt those who rely on [help from those agencies].”

The deeper problem, AAP members say, is balancing efficiency and efficacy when it comes to transit.

“The more efficient the system gets, the fewer people it’s able to service it seems,” says McNeill. Fellow AAP member Martin Suter says that Grand River Transit has “forgotten the word ‘public’ in public transit”.

But is transit a right? Suter believes it is both “a right and a necessity… you can’t live without access to transit, nor should you,” and others point out that a barrier to transit creates barriers to

accessing many other services as well.

Despite these sentiments, it appears that only two Canadian cities have developed free transit programs. One exists in Saint-Joseph du Lac, Quebec, and Kingston just announced a pilot project for recipients of Ontario Works. The latter was passed by a unanimous vote by their regional council and will serve about 3000 people per month.

So why hasn’t a free transit program happened here yet? Funding is a probable factor. But according to Pierre Filion, compared to bigger issues like food security and affordable housing, transit could be “the cheapest issue to deal with.” Filion, who is a professor in UW’s school of planning, adds that “some people could see [free or other subsidized transit programs] as being unfair.”

And while such a program would likely put a dent in GRT fare revenue, most everyone I spoke with argued that those costs could be recouped elsewhere, describing the positive “upstream” consequences of free transit, which would make it easier for people to access health care or employment counselling, for example.

Speaking to council Brusse said that “clearly the TRIP pass makes a difference in people’s lives. Imagine what free transport could do for these individuals.”

We will have to wait and see what the results of the impending regional study bring, if it means that the region considers AAP’s proposal for free transit, and what it could mean for our community.

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DECEMBER 2016 // @THECOMMUNITYED

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BEING MUSLIM

AFTER TRUMP

INTERSECTIONS

ZAINAB MAHDI COLUMNIST Last June I facilitated a workshop at the Islamic School of Cambridge, exploring the theme of emotional wellbeing. I asked a class of eighth graders to reflect on their fears of the future – anticipating that most students would likely express anxiety at the prospect of starting high school. What I didn’t expect was the conversation that ensued, and the heartbreaking reality that many kids shared the same fear: a Donald Trump presidency.

“If he wins, I’m scared that he might do something to my family members in America. Or that he might influence things here in Canada,” one student shared.

In the weeks immediately following the election I couldn’t help but recall my conversation with those students.

I remember the concern lingering on their faces even as I reassured them that they had nothing to worry about.

Surely Trump wouldn’t be getting anywhere near the Oval Office.

I was wrong. Wrong about the election results and mistaken in my steadfast belief that a campaign employing bigoted, hateful and divisive rhetoric couldn’t possibly lead to a presidency.

But most of all, I was wrong when I told those students they had nothing to worry about. As Muslims, their fears were – and continue to be – rightfully justified.

Fast forward to November 9, when Donald Trump won the election on a platform promising to ban Muslims from entering the United States.

A week later the Federal Bureau of Investigation released statistics from 2015 reporting a 67 per cent increase in hate crimes against Muslims – a

spike in Islamophobia unseen since the aftermath of 9/11.

All the while, Muslims, people of colour, LGBTQ+ communities and marginalized individuals across the U.S. tried to make sense of what the election results meant for them. And indeed, many continue to ask what a Trump presidency will mean for Muslim people in Canada.

Although I don’t wish to belittle the extent to which Trump’s vilification of Muslims will affect residents on either side of the border, I do want to take a moment to consider the treatment of Muslim-Canadians prior to the U.S. elections.

Data released earlier this year on police-reported hate crimes in Canada shows that incidences targeting Muslims have doubled in the past three years. And let’s not forget that a vast majority of Canadians supported our government’s previous attempts to impede on religious freedom by proposing to ban niqabs at citizenship ceremonies.

Statistics aside, as a visibly Muslim woman living in Canada, I have often felt spurned for my religious beliefs. I can recall countless instances where it felt as though my humanity relied solely on my ability to justify my beliefs. But never in my life have I felt such visceral fear for my own safety and the wellbeing of my loved ones as I have in the weeks following the election.

Now more than ever is the time to reject notions of fear mongering and divisiveness. As disheartening as it is to witness Islamophobic sentiments proliferating around the world, I am deeply uplifted by the unequivocal support and kindness I have received during these dire times.

We all have a responsibility to ensure that the future of our nation remains one of inclusion and plurality, one of open borders and open minds.

A future where none of our children feel burdened by concerns for their safety.

MATT SMITH PHOTO

GOOD GRIEF: THE FOUR TASKS OF MOURNING

MENTAL MATTERS

JOHN ROCHE COLUMNIST “Society teaches us that having feelings and crying is bad and wrong.

Well, that’s baloney, because grief isn’t wrong. There’s such a thing as good grief. Just ask Charlie Brown.”

So said Michael Scott, and as 2016 draws to a close and it becomes more and more apparent that Ashton Kutcher isn’t going to jump out and tell us this whole year has just been a really elaborate episode of Punk’d, it seems like a good time to talk about grief.

According to grief specialist

William Worden, “good grief” is characterized by the completion of four tasks: accepting the reality of the loss, working through the pain of grief, adapting to life after the loss, and finding an enduring connection to the person who was lost, while embarking on a new life.

ACCEPTING THE REALITY OF THE LOSS Loss defies logic. One moment someone or something is there, and the next they are not — and your entire world has been turned upside down. Disorientation and disbelief are totally normal and unavoidable at the beginning of the grieving process. As time goes by, you can gradually come to accept the reality of loss through any activity that involves acknowledging it: participating in rituals, talking about it, writing in a journal, working

with a therapist, and/or making art.

It will take time, but slowly the sad reality will sink in — and you can begin to heal.

WORKING THROUGH THE PAIN OF GRIEF Grief devastates our hearts, our minds and our bodies. Sadness, anger, guilt, anxiety, loneliness, confusion, yearning and even relief are the most common emotional consequences of grief. Our thinking is impacted by grief through disbelief, confusion, preoccupation and hallucinations. The effects of grief on our bodies are most commonly fatigue, shock, numbness and sleep and appetite disturbances.

All of this is normal. Understandable as it is to try and avoid it, doing so only makes it worse. Grief is like a storm: trying to outrun it will only preoccupy and exhaust you, but if you

stop and let it pass you over, the pain will gradually subside on its own.

ADAPTING TO LIFE AFTER THE LOSS Whether it involves finding a new apartment, learning to cook for one, or abstaining from social media, life after loss requires a new way of living.

Slowly but surely, we need to learn to live in a world unlike the one we used to know.

FINDING AN ENDURING CONNECTION TO THE PERSON WHO WAS LOST, WHILE EMBARKING ON A NEW LIFE When someone or something is no longer physically present, we must find a way to carry them with us — while we affirm that there remains life to be lived. Spiritual traditions have lots of language and practices for this,

but it’s certainly possible to complete this task without them. Gratitude, forgiveness and intentional times of remembrance often play an important part in completing this task. As does continuing to live life.

As Shane Koyczan wrote, “Grief is the price we pay for being able to smile once in a while.” Rather than being a failure, grief is a badge that shows we decided to show up and give a shit, knowing full well that doing so would eventually leave us wounded and scarred. In a world where everything is impermanent, that kind of decision is courageous indeed.

John is a therapist who practices in Waterloo.

DECEMBER 2016 // COMMUNITYEDITION.CA

7

OUR BEST FOOT

FORWARD

FICTION BY DYLAN SIEBERT The lobby was crowded with people coming in from the cold and up the flight of stairs to the council chamber.

Henry scanned the faces for his friend, and finally spotted her striding toward him from the south door, her infant son bundled warmly against her chest.

“You look nervous,” said Marta, grinning. “Getting ready to make a speech?”

“Me? Oh no, no… I just feel unsure about this proposal. I mean, who are we to impose our way of life on anybody else?”

Marta shrugged. “It’s a good question. Maybe you’ll get some answers tonight. Ali, you remember Henry, don’t you?” The baby gave an affirmative wriggle, and then they were up the stairs and into the meeting hall.

“Thank you for finding your seats quickly,” the woman at the front was saying. Easily the tallest woman present, her graceful, straight-backed posture made her taller than most of the men as well. “Thomas, would you please call the meeting to order?”

A man at the curved table behind her put down his pen and cleared his throat. “Waterloo Regional Council, December 20, 2066. Public consultation concerning Council’s proposal to send material assistance and policy advisors to the people of Mississauga.

Councillor Yusra Okot presiding.”

“Thank you Thomas,” said Okot.

“Council has circulated the full proposal in the newspapers and on the radio, so I’ll move to open the floor to feedback immediately. Thank you for stating your name and for keeping your comments brief.”

Henry hunched forward in his seat as a lineup took shape behind the microphone.

“Fatima Ahmadi,” said the first speaker, crisply and clearly. “I can endorse the spirit of the proposal, but I’d question the size of the proposed loan from the regional seed bank. Are we sure we have collateral in case of another drought? I’d like to see us diversify our portfolio further before we start to lend too freely outside the region.”

“Zechariah Eby. Amen to the spirit of mutual aid. You know, it wasn’t that long ago that you city folks were coming to us to learn the meaning of that particular idiom, and you made good on your return. The farmland encroachment was stopped, and together we’ve started to clean up the waters. My question is, will the aid in question tonight help Mississaugans get back on their feet, or will we in our high-minded goodness turn them into a charity case?”

Henry nodded vigourously and turned toward his friend, but she wasn’t in her seat.

“Marta Bly. It might seem like

ancient history to most of us, but this region was hit pretty hard by the end of free trade and the collapse of the tech bubble. And then the price of gas kept going up, and up, and up… Without the urban farmers’ stimulus and the consumers’ movement for local factories and local jobs, we’d be just like Mississauga is today — no jobs, no food, no economy to speak of. I was born at a time when people could start to look forward to good, honest work again, and I want the same for my son.

I really do think we’ve got a way of life here that’s worth sharing.”

“Frank Mathers. Why should we send our hard-earned seed to a bunch of suburban slouches? We’re making boots, furniture, washing machines, not to mention the food crops — all Mississauga exports is drugs and homeless people. Let Toronto take care of them.”

“Colin Wei-Lee. Toronto can’t take care of its suburbs any more. The city’s got enough problems of its own, what with the streets melting every August, and no end in sight yet for the tornado clean-up. Over the years we’ve taken in more refugees than we would have thought possible, but it’s in our interest to help Mississaugans rebuild where they are rather than migrating here. If seed, tools, and teachers with the right attitude can help them do that, I think we should go for it.”

An aide stepped up to councillor Okot and whispered in her ear. Okot nodded once and addressed the gathering. “Angela informs me that the wind has died down, which means we’re going to dim the lights and conserve power for the heating system.

There will be a ten minute break while we light the lamps.”

Henry stretched in his seat, noticing only then how tense he’d been.

Marta was seated next to him again, bouncing a grumbling Ali on her lap.

“Someone’s hungry,” she said to Henry. “Want to step out with us?”

The hallway was a breath of fresh air after the crowded council chamber.

Custodial staff were moving throughout the building silently and efficiently, trimming wicks and lighting lamps.

While Marta discreetly rearranged her clothing, Henry tried to assemble his jumbled thoughts.

“It sounds so straightforward,” he said. “But so did all those other historical experiments in improving other people’s lives. How do we know our way is really any better?”

Marta gave him a sympathetic look.

“Because it works, Henry. Look, my uncle used to tell me stories about life before the deindustrial revolution.

People were dependent on machines and fossil fuels for everything. When the whole system started to crack apart, a few regions and cities were

able to break with convention and start employing people again rather than robots and computers. They had to give up worshipping flashy gizmos and useless widgets, but they gained a stable food supply, meaningful work, a community that could actually provide for its young people… what more could you want?”

“Things had to get a lot worse before we could start to see how to make them better,” said a voice. It was Marta’s husband Faizal approaching up the stairwell, smiling. “Isn’t that what your uncle used to say, Marta?”

She nodded, grinned, and transferred the baby into his father’s outstretched arms. “You’re late,” she said, giving him a peck on the cheek.

“I took the Ion from Waterloo,” said Faizal ruefully. “That old rust bucket.

Next time I’ll take a hansom cab, they’re more reliable.”

“If you say so. We’re about to head back in, care to join us? Henry’s getting ready to overcome his ancestral guilt and join the conversation.” She winked, and Henry blushed. Together they headed back to their seats.

The chamber was transformed. In the warm glow of the lamps, every face seemed gentler, and the room smaller and more intimate. We’re all in this together, thought Henry. Screwing up his courage, he made his way to the front of the room.

It was hard to focus on the speakers ahead of him in line, but finally his turn came. “Henry Watterson,” he said, trying not to stammer. “I came to Waterloo Region when I was two years old. My parents had only me, my sister, and a couple of garbage bags stuffed with clothes. We lived with the Ahmadi family until my parents could get work at the boot factory. I don’t know what my life would have been like if we’d stayed in the States, but I know we didn’t have much of a choice. So.” He took a deep breath and looked at the circle of faces glowing back at him. “This place means a lot to me. And there’s a part of me that really does want to give that gift to others. As long as we do it wisely, with foresight. Thanks.”

He shuffled back to his seat as councillor Okot took the microphone.

“Thank you to everyone who spoke tonight. Obviously, we’re not going to make a decision right away. Please talk this over with your friends and neighbours, and we’ll reconvene in the new year. Merry Christmas, everyone.”

As the room erupted in animated chatter, Marta leaned over and gave Henry a one-armed hug. “Hey, that wasn’t the end of the world, was it?”

Henry smiled sheepishly. “No, I guess it wasn’t.”

most extreaofvthae gant tim y e a r but maybe it dtooesnt need be th way it’s the

at

ALLISON LEONARD

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THE COMMUNITY EDITION GUIDE TO A (MORE) HUMBLE HOLIDAY SEASON Look at your bank account, and subtract $1,121.

What’s left? Whatever the number, that’s where PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (PWC) conservatively estimates your bank account will sit after this year’s holiday season. And while it would be nice to say this spending is extravagant and unrealistic, saying so won’t get you out of the countless holiday parties, obligatory office gifts, drinks you need to serve, potluck items you need to bring, train rides you need to take, gas you need to buy, wrapping paper you have to fight with and craft shows you have to attend. Your aunt really will love that artisanal, organic candle.

PWC’s estimate – a 10 per cent increase from last year’s consumer spending – accounts only for straight-up under-the-tree gift giving. And

while they foresee a shift from material goods to non-tangible gifts (vacations or something hosted in the cloud), the effect on your wallet will still quite certainly feel tangible.

The alternatives? Get cheap with your favourite, free community newspaper (that’s us). While we can’t attack the entirety of the big ol’ system we call capitalism in the allotted page space, we’ve honed in on one of the biggest culprits of overspending during the holidays: alcohol. We know that not all of you drink, but at the very least this might come in use as a host. And if you do imbibe, please do so responsibly.

So, welcome to TCE’s guide to reducing (part of) the extravagance of hosting, giving, and consuming over the holidays.

IF YOU CHUCK HOLIDAY SPICES INTO A BOX OF CHEAP WINE, IT BECOMES FESTIVE WINE. RIGHT? 1 box of red wine 1 handful of festive seasoning, like anise, nutmeg, cardamom or cloves 1 orange 1 lemon

$ $

$ $

Makes about 34 cups for about $45 Put a large pot on medium heat. Chuck in a few cinnamon sticks, plus whatever other festive

seasoning you have. Whole spices are great, but if you’ve got powdered spices on hand, that’s fine too. Slice your orange and lemon, add to your toasting spices. Add the box of wine. The little spout on it will probably make pouring easy.

Bring to a simmer and reduce to low heat. Serve whenever the heck you feel like it, because you’ve turned a cheap box of wine into lovely, spice infused wine. Serve in mugs and bask in the glory of being an awesome host.

IF YOU BUY ONE BOTTLE OF RYE YOU CAN TURN IT INTO A BUNCH OF GIFTS: A HOLIDAY MIRACLE. 2.5 cups of half and half cream 2 cans of sweetened condensed milk 6 eggs 3 cups of inexpensive rye 2 tbsp of chocolate sauce (off-brand NesQuik is A-OK) ½ tsp of salt $ $ $ $ $

$

Makes about 10 cups for about $38

Mix all ingredients in a blender (at least one of your friends will have one you can borrow). Store in tightly sealed bottles. That’s it. We recommend getting a few small mason jars, but don’t buy them new, thrift stores have more than they know what to do with. Throw some ribbon on them, or don’t. Keep refrigerated, and these bad boys will last about three weeks. One cheap bottle of rye turned into homemade Irish cream gifts.

IF YOU READ A NEWSPAPER ARTICLE ABOUT THRIFTY HOLIDAY RECIPES, YOU’LL GET A FEW IDEAS (BUT THE REST IS ON YOU) PWC’s forecasted $1,121 reduction in your account balance is just that: a forecast, and not a recommendation or necessity. If your expected holiday spending doesn’t fit into this bracket, don’t sweat it. Pressure to spend and consume – often beyond your means or interest – is sitting at an all time high, but there are a ton of cheap and free ways to enjoy the season. And, they’re arguably better than any mediocre bottle of wine you’ll give someone (they’ll probably forget you gave it) or the gift basket of dry crackers you’ll

give your boss (she probably got seven this year).

Beyond our two thifty recipes, other options include walking through a beautifully lit Victoria Park (what the hell Bingemans, why is it $20 to drive through your light tunnel?), watching a weird, claymation Christmas special from your childhood, and wrapping your gifts in this newspaper! Homemade Irish cream isn’t going to topple the consumptive house of cards that is the holiday season during advanced capitalism, but hey, it’s a start.

DECEMBER 2016 // COMMUNITYEDITION.CA

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MALE BIRTH CONTROL IS BESIDE THE POINT

EVERYONE HAVING PENIS IN VAGINA SEX IS RESPONSIBLE FOR PREGNANCY, NO MATTER WHO’S TAKING THE PILL

SEXPLANATIONS

STACEY JACOBS COLUMNIST For as long as I can remember people have been asking me about “the male birth control pill.” This is because every so often an article appears talking about research or drug trials involving birth control for those with penises. In Canada there is no birth control available for people with penises other than the condom, and I do not think this will change any time soon.

However, this does not mean that a person with a penis cannot contribute to preventing pregnancy. There are many things they can do such as using condoms consistently, withdrawing, helping with the financial burden of birth control and emergency contraception and educating themselves on pregnancy, menstruation and birth control. If birth control was available for people with penises we could add it to that list.

I know a person who does all these things. They call their partner every day at 3:00 p.m. to remind them to take their birth control pill. They also use condoms every time they have sex, know exactly where they can buy emergency contraception and have continuous open and honest

conversations with their partner about parenting and abortion. They have also educated themselves on the potential side effects and health risks for people who use birth control so they can understand and support their partner.

This person is 17 years old, and I would say more responsible and compassionate than many older penis wielders I know!

Every body is different. Some can get pregnant and some cannot.

However, everyone having penis in vagina sex needs to take responsibility for pregnancy, not just the person who can get pregnant. That being said, we need to ensure that sharing responsibility for planning pregnancies does not result in taking the right to choose

what happens to your body away from the person who can get pregnant.

Will a person who cannot get pregnant ever feel the same societal weight around pregnancy as someone who can? Will they ever feel the same societal pressure to be a responsible parent?

Society judges moms and dads differently. Mothers are often judged for being too young, too old, too single, having too many children, not having enough children or being too career focused. Do we ever say these things about dads? Are dads ever stigmatized for not taking parental leave? How many times have you heard, “Dad is babysitting tonight”? Should dads not be parenting?

And so the societal pressure

remains on the person who can get pregnant. If there was a birth control method for people with penises would this change? Should people who can get pregnant trust those who can’t to use birth control properly and consistently when the stigma of an unplanned pregnancy will not affect them in the same way? And because it does not affect them in the same way will they want to use birth control that may have side effects and health risks? A societal shift in the way we think about, react to and judge gender, pregnancy and parenting is what we need to concentrate on to ensure the responsibility of pregnancy and parenting is with everyone.

GONE TO SEED

WE NEED SEEDS TO LIVE, NOW MORE THAN EVER

SUSAN KOSWAN CONTRIBUTOR Who knew that a documentary about seeds could fill the original Princess Cinema in Waterloo?

SEED: The Untold Story grew from a National Geographic article that reported that “up to 96 per cent of the vegetable seeds available in 1903 have disappeared.” So it’s not just warm, fuzzy animals facing extinction, but the core of our food supply.

Lots of variety means better resilience to withstand climate change, where we face more frequent and wilder storms, flash flooding, seasonal changes that alter the blooming and pollination cycles of plants and bees, migration of pests to new territories, drought, and so much more.

Industrial agriculture is partly to blame. We expect uniformity in flavour and size in our fruits and vegetables, which we try to achieve through normal breeding practices or genetic modification. Some inroads are being made into this idea of perfection with the recent entry of “ugly” foods into the marketplace.

SEED is as scary as it is uplifting.

There was an audible gasp in the audience when we learned that more than 129,000 farmers in India have committed suicide — usually by pesticide ingestion — because they could not afford to keep buying seed and pesticides from the chemical and agri-seed companies that control the

market.

But there was also the inspiring story of a young woman in India who was finally successful in getting her family to convert their farm to organic methods and became a role model and teacher for other neighbouring farms.

Seed-saving is now an international project, for example through the Svalbard Global Seed Vault in Norway, where seeds from around the world are protected in a vast underground, climate-controlled storage facility in case of disaster.

Equally as important, and as SEED so lovingly showed, are the committed seed-savers working at the community level to maintain their own seed banks to ensure we humans have a future with food we can grow. If you want to learn what you can do in our community, you need look no further than the seed-heroes who generously shared their thoughts after the movie in a panel discussion. Those heroes are Bob Wildfong from Seeds of Diversity (www.seeds.ca), Kim Delaney from Hawthorn Farm Organic Seeds (www. hawthornfarm.ca), Taarini Chopra from Canadian Biotechnology Action Network (www.cban.ca) and Bruce McNeil from the Kitchener Horticultural Society/Seedy Saturday (www.kitchenerhs.ca/cms). And finally, a note for your calendar: When February comes around and it feels like winter will never end, come to the sixth annual Seedy Saturday in Kitchener to learn, share, swap and get an early start on spring planting. And talk seed talk. At the Kitchener Public Library, from 9 a.m.

DECEMBER 2016 // COMMUNITYEDITION.CA

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ELECTORAL REFORM WHERE IT COUNTS THE MOST WR AND HOWE

JAMES HOWE COLUMNIST With all the national attention paid to electoral reform lately, you may have missed the news that Waterloo council had its own chance at electoral reform but chose to stick with the status quo.

Council got it right on online voting by sticking with a paper ballot. That’s the only way that we can be sure who is voting and that no coercion is taking place. Besides, there’s no evidence that it significantly increases voter turnout.

Online voting only makes it easier

for people who are normally voters anyhow.

But council missed an opportunity to make every vote count by replacing the first past the post system.

For the first time, municipalities in Ontario have the option of using a ranked ballot in the 2018 municipal election. And it is an option they should be seizing in order to make voting meaningful for the level of government with the most impact on our day to day life.

With a ranked ballot, nobody can win with less than a majority of the vote because when voters go to the polling booth they are not limited to making a single choice. Rather they rank their choices from their favourite to their least favourite. When the ballots are counted, if no one receives a majority of the votes the candidate with the

least first choices is dropped and those votes are redistributed to the second choice. The process is repeated until the top candidate has a majority of the votes — and arguably a mandate from voters.

In a municipal election, voters often find themselves faced with a long list of candidates. Incumbents or other seasoned politicians have a distinct advantage in terms of fundraising and electability due to their name recognition. A ranked ballot helps to level out the playing field. Rather than a split of the vote between the newcomers struggling for funds and recognition, one of them could emerge as the consensus candidate of change.

If a voter prefers a certain approach to local issues such as being represented by a progressive or a fiscal conservative, they may have more

than one choice. Ranking candidates by their positions helps ensures the winner reflects what voters’ preference of approach.

Incumbents need not shake in their boots, as they can benefit too. They don’t have to worry about a vote split making the difference between winning and losing.

The Region of Waterloo could most benefit by opting for a ranked ballot since city-wide races can attract a long list of candidates. Determining who to vote for can be a challenge for even the most dedicated voter. And it is a real uphill battle for newcomers who have knowledge, experience and passion for regional issues to mount a competitive campaign.

Worse, it is easy for none of your choices to be elected even though you have two councilors representing

Waterloo, two representing Cambridge and four in Kitchener. That’s not good for democracy, since there is a real chance your votes won’t count.

Those issues are all compounded in the vote for regional chair, which covers the same area represented by five Members of Parliament.

Ranked ballots could also help us when a seat becomes vacant, as happened with the death of regional councillor Wayne Wettlaufer. If his votes could have been redistributed, we could be assured that his supporters’ voices were heard in the selection of his successor without an expensive by-election.

So in 2018, let’s start with electoral reform where it counts the most. And once people know every vote counts, they’ll expect the same in federal and provincial elections too.

Writer Donna Litt is currently crowdfunding her new novel, Where the Sun Sets, and at the time of printing was running a book cover contest to replace the above image. PHOTO COURTESY DONNA LITT

ARTIN’ AROUND WITH AUTHOR DONNA LITT

IN WHICH WE WRITE ABOUT A WRITER WHO IS WRITING WORDS SO AS TO KEEP MAKERS MAKING IN THE REGION

ELIZABETH DICESARE CONTRIBUTOR Waterloo Region is well-known for its thriving, innovative tech sector.

The region has made an incredible move from being a manufacturing hub to a place that regularly announces new start-ups and local inventions.

There is, without a doubt, a large amount of money, time and talent being poured into this sector.

But what many people often overlook is the creative flair that these companies need in order to keep pushing forward. Focusing on the four STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) subjects is no longer enough. Now, people are focusing on STEAM — all those, plus the arts.

Blending traditional science and art is not a new concept, but many people

are only now appreciating the importance of using these fields together.

Donna Litt, a local author who recently left the tech-sector to pursue a career in creative writing, is using a crowdfunding campaign to draw attention to the intrinsic use of the arts and sciences together whilst promoting her newest novel, Where the Sun Sets.

“It just seemed like a really interesting opportunity to try to take something that I’ve worked on for a long time, and turn it into something that could generate opportunities for other people as well as myself,” she explained.

She is currently crowdfunding on a platform called Inkshares. After receiving 250 backers, the novel will be published, and after 750 backers she will start receiving royalties. Litt’s long-term plan is to donate a portion of the book sales to local non-profit organizations that actively blend the arts and sciences. She has partnered with Diyode, based in Guelph, Pat the

Dog Theatre Creation, which operates across Ontario, and Kwartzlab, which is located close to downtown Kitchener. The goal is to use percentages of royalties to provide long-term, sustainable funding for these groups.

“When I was a student in school I worked for a number of different non-profits… and one of the biggest [or most] valuable kinds of donors we looked for were those that could provide sustainable sources of funding,” she continued. “The idea is to also help spread awareness about these causes as well.”

One program at Diyode that the donations from this campaign will fund, called Precious Plastic, focuses on reusing plastic materials, and upcycling them to be reused in Haiti in ways that will benefit the local, sustainable economy.

“I have learned that just giving funds willy-nilly isn’t really something that will benefit that community,” Litt explained. “[Organizations] need the time, the attention and the support,

so I’m focusing the immediate fund benefit on Diyode, one of the organizations where there is an immediate campaign and an immediate need for funds.”

“The makerspaces, like Diyode and like Kwartzlab, they enable creators to essentially just be curious and follow their passion and ask those important questions, so I came to those organizations because they’re, from my understanding, innovators who are creating in a way that does address some of the more human side of innovation,” she continued.

While her crowdfunding campaign is drawing attention to organizations that work with and perpetuate STEAM fields, it is also advertising her own creative work. An excerpt of Where the Sun Sets is available to read online, for those who are interested in her project.

This love story, which is cast in the world of magical realism, is beautifully written. While it centres around love and human emotion, it also contains

elements of time-travel, which adds surprising sparks, and promises to weave a wonderful adventure. Its contents without a doubt blend aspects of the arts and sciences, just like Litt’s overall mission.

“It showcases an old, aging southern Ontario couple, and it’s not your typical protagonist, it’s not your typical scenario, and it’s part of Canadian literature,” she explained.

“But then on the flip side, once you get into the story, what you discover is that the protagonist is a bit of a maker himself… he needs to be quite clever, and you see more of the science aspect come out.”

The story behind Where the Sun Sets and the story written on its pages bring seemingly opposite themes and ideas together, but illustrate the ever-changing, innovative world that we live in.

DECEMBER 2016 // COMMUNITYEDITION.CA

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Inside Quantum: the Exhibition there are many mirrors and (not pictured) lasers. JESSE BAUMAN PHOTO

QUANTUM EXHIBITION INFORMS, IS ALL OVER THE PLACE ADAM LEWIS CONTRIBUTOR The “classical” physics developed by Newton can be difficult to understand, but at heart it mirrors how we basically expect the world to behave.

A moving object follows the same path whether or not we look at it, and the path it follows is in principle predictable. But physicists working in the early 20th century discovered that these expectations hold only approximately. Sufficiently small objects, like

electrons, are smeared out over space like waves — unless they are measured. Once measured, they assume a particular, random, position.

The ideas of the new theory, quantum mechanics, are showcased in Quantum: the Exhibition, which resides at THEMUSEUM until January 1, after which it will tour the country.

The exhibit combines text and interactive demonstrations to successively describe the basic ideas of quantum physics, existing technologies such as lasers that exploit the theory, and potential future applications such as quantum computing.

Quantum physics is a complicated subject. One of the exhibit’s goals is therefore to provide a multi-layered

experience that gives some benefit at many levels of prior knowledge. A second or third year physics major, encountering quantum theory seriously for the first time, might find some of the demonstrations to be very illuminating. Someone completely unexposed to modern physics will of course have a more superficial understanding, but should still learn.

In particular, such a person will learn that Canada, and Kitchener Waterloo specifically, is a world-leading centre of “quantum technology.” There is some truth to this: Waterloo now hosts multiple world-leading research centres developing such technology, including the Institute for Quantum Computing and the Perimeter

Institute for Theoretical Physics.

Waterloo’s Quantum Valley Investments funds quantum-technological startups.

Elsewhere, D-Wave Systems in Burnaby, B.C. has built what they claim is a quantum computer. This claim is best described as “hard to disprove,” but since a real quantum computer could break modern encryption with ease, the mere threat has made a few multi-million dollar sales.

The claim is nevertheless somewhat misleading. With the exception of quantum key distribution, an approach to information security whose real-world pragmatic advantage is at least debatable, the advertised technologies cannot be commercialized

because they do not exist. Quantum computing in particular is probably decades away.

The environment being fostered in Waterloo may lead to a watershed breakthrough that dramatically shortens this timeline. Were that to happen the flood of investment into Kitchener Waterloo would almost certainly rival that into California during the 1990s, for good or for ill. But for now the promise remains only a promise.

Adam is a visiting graduate fellow at the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics.

DIGITAL SKILLS FOR ALL

Shawerma Plus will donate a portion of sales once a month

KRISTEN PHILIPPI CONTRIBUTOR Waterloo Region is working hard to become Silicon Valley North, but do the people outside of the technology sector have access to the innovations being created in their backyards?

Hive Waterloo Region is attempting to answer that question. The non-profit launched in November with a mission to bridge the gap between the emerging tech sector and the rest of the region.

For some years researchers have talked about the “digital divide,” which in its simplest form refers to the difference between those who have access to technology and those who do not, and those who are literate in today’s commonplace technologies, and those who are not. Most often, lack of economic means is the strongest contributor to this divide.

While this might seem abstract, the impacts on those who are left behind can be devastating and practical.

Consider how many businesses, government forms, job postings and opportunities are moving online, requiring fairly comprehensive access and understanding of technology.

Hive WR is a new chapter of the Hive Network that is run with the help of the Mozilla Foundation. Waterloo joins cities like New York, Toronto and Chicago in an effort to promote digital literacy and open access to the web.

The increasing influence and growth of the tech sector in the region provided a big draw to create a local chapter.

“We have decided to focus on how to promote digital literacy for everyone as we believe these skills will be critical to success in the future both

individually and as a whole. We are also committed to increasing diversity and equity in the tech sector” Hive WR executive director Stephanie Rozak said at the organization’s launch event in November at the Kitchener Public Library.

The launch event was diverse and stereotype-defying. Attendees included coders demonstrating games introducing children to their work, a principal interested in implementing a coding program in her school’s curriculum, and recent graduates from the Hackergirlz program. To add to the theme, a few local bee keepers shared their honey.

Held at the Kitchener Public Library, the location and the speakers spoke of and to a new form of literacy.

“What we are trying to do is develop programming that breaks down age, gender and ability stereotypes and define a new intersection for the interests in the community to literacy,” KPL’s CEO Mary Chevreau said to the crowd. A new section of the KPL that is attempting to bridge the gap includes video equipment, green screens and a virtual reality booth.

The event itself brought a few competing dynamics. Tradition and literature against digital new media.

The fast paced often elite tech scene and the equalizing space of the library. Long time teachers and young students. Early adapters of computers and completely new users wanting to learn more. But all came together at the KPL to focus on bridging the gap to promote inclusion that is also protech and pro-participation.

Hive WR is leading the community in a way that could be advantageous for everyone. Waterloo Region should be proud of its innovation, and Hive is making that possible not just for some, but for all.

13

DECEMBER 2016 // COMMUNITYEDITION.CA

MEG HARDER ILLUSTRATION

FREE FUN IN WATERLOO

waterloo.ca/NYE * Dec. 31, 2016 2 - 3:50 PM * ALBERT McCORMICK ARENA

Grab your friends and celebrate with a DJ and extra fun activities.

Sponsored by Tim Horton’s.

6:30 - 8:20 PM * RIM PARK

Enjoy an evening skate party. Sponsored by Tim Horton’s.

6 - 9 PM * WATERLOO PUBLIC SQUARE Enjoy fun tunes, children’s activities, and a special early New Year celebration at 9 pm. Presented by TheHUB. $5 skate rentals from McPhails if you mention “Waterloo”. Open 9 am – 3 pm Dec 31.

DECEMBER 2016 // COMMUNITYEDITION.CA

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THE MUTUAL BENEFITS OF GIVING

IF YOU’RE GOING TO GIVE, WHY NOT GIVE FOR GOOD? TCE TELLS YOU HOW

EMILY GLEESON CONTRIBUTOR In his book Happy City, Charles Montgomery refers to a study that found people benefit from altruistic behavior — not just those on the receiving end, but those on the giving end as well. He finds that people who share or help others gain a higher sense of well-being compared to those who focus more on monetary profit. The benevolent types were tested and found to have more of the pleasure-boosting, trust-enhancing, calm-inducing molecule called oxytocin floating through their bloodstreams. In essence, he argues that the act of giving makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside, and can ultimately lead to greater happiness.

The holidays are a good time to enact this kind of behavior, despite

the fact that our gifts are usually for our close friends and loved ones, and not so much for our community as a whole. It’s not always convenient to think of those in need during this hectic time — images of packed malls and last-minute LCBO gift cards (my go-to in a bind) and general mayhem are almost a rite of passage for those of us who go along with the hullabaloo — but perhaps we can all keep in mind that a happy city is one that engages with people that aren’t just in our inner circle. Perhaps we can all go one step further and try to give something back to support those in our communities fighting hunger, homelessness and poverty.

So, here’s my challenge: when you’re making up your holiday gift list, add just one more item.

One of the services around Kitchener Waterloo that could use your help is House of Friendship’s Christmas hamper program.

Matt Cooper coordinates the seasonal program (as well as the year-round emergency food hamper

program) and says December can be “pretty depressing” for people around the Region living on low income. Not only is food short, but the seasons brings many societal expectations for families that are also often expensive.

“The Region is very prosperous yet there are still a lot of people who struggle to make ends meet,” Cooper says.

The program sponsors families and individuals to provide food items like a turkey and presents for children. It is fueled by the work of volunteers and anyone can donate their time or money towards the cause.

“Either or is very welcome,” he says, explaining that “last year we did over 4000 hampers in the community.”

The program also needs drivers (to deliver the hampers) as well as financial donations to stay afloat, so if this is something you might be interested in, check out the website www.christmashampers.ca. If you find yourself in need of help this season, you can easily apply directly on the site, as well.

On the benefits of altruism, Cooper remarks that “people who give their time here quickly become a kind of extended family, so there is a huge direct benefit from interacting with your neighbours who are experiencing a troubling time.”

He also suggests that learning about different people and working towards a common goal can be highly rewarding for people that get involved.

One in twenty people will need this program or similar ones across the Region, so he also emphasizes the significance of asking the bigger questions concerning that statistic.

“Giving and volunteering is the tip of the iceberg of a bigger issue,” Cooper adds. “Getting involved in the conversation is important — asking why are people experiencing so much adversity in our community? Why is that happening? Getting involved in the process of politics and communicating expectations to representatives — if people have more time to give, try and go a little further with it.” This is, of course, a conversation we can

continue all throughout the year.

There are many other local organizations that would welcome your assistance at this time, or at any time of the year. And as always, learning about the issues is an excellent place to start. To that end, I suggest visiting www.hhug.ca (the Hunger and Homeless Umbrella Group) to learn about ways to get involved in helping people experiencing homelessness. The Sexual Assault Support Centre continues to develop innovative and important programming, and also always needs donations. Learn more about their work at www.sascwr.org/donate.

If you don’t have to worry about where your food is coming from this holiday season, ask yourself if you might be able to spare something towards the greater good of our community. And while the proverbial sleigh bells ring, remember that there are a multitude of ways to give back, and multiple reasons to do so. In the words of Maya Angelou, “I have found that among its other benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver.”

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DEC 14 W I N T E R S L E E P DEC 15 MOUNTAIN DUST, OL’ TIME MOONSHINE DEC 16 & WORMWOOD SCRUBS

Steve Strongman & Rob Szabo

12TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY SHOW

ELECTRlC SlX Johnny Johnny Diamond Diamond

DEC 17

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STONY LONESOME

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BILL & JOEL PLASKETT with special guests

MAYHEMINGWAYS

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DECEMBER 2016 // @THECOMMUNITYED

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ARTS & CULTURE EVENT LISTINGS WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 7 CIRQUE DREAMS HOLIDAZE CENTRE IN THE SQUARE Described as a “broadway musical meets family Christmas spectacular” this new cirque show has over 20 acts and 30 artists from all over the globe.

Performance • $50-140 • 7:30pm

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8 CHEEKY LOVEY FOLK JAZZ & BETTY SUPPLE CONCERT BERLIN BICYCLE CAFE Berlin Bicycle Cafe is hosting their first concert. Congrats! They are featuring Betty Supple, a songwriter and performer who plays hip hop inspired mandolin.

Concert • $10 • 7pm-10pm

FREDERICK ARTWALK ARTIST TAKEOVER DESCENDANTS The brewery will be taken over by family friendly arts and crafts made by many of the artists who exhibited at last month’s Frederick Artwalk. Pick up a few handmade goods and maybe even a growler for your friends/family/self.

Shop • Free • 12pm-5pm

MONDAY, DECEMBER 12 LOL IN DECEMBER B_DTK The third edition of KW’s newest monthly stand up comedy show returns to B. Catherine McCormick headlines.

Comedy • $13 • 8pm

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10 A DIE HARD CHRISTMAS APOLLO CINEMA Get ready, Hans Gruber is coming.

So come out to the coast, we’ll get together, have a few laughs.

But don’t forget your white tank top, the twinkies and for the love of Christmas put on a pair of shoes. Welcome to the party, pal.

Yippie-Ki-Yay. Film • $11 • 6:45pm

CLOUD WHITE COLLECTIVE OPEN HOUSE & SALE 164 WATERLOO STREET Still trying to get all your holiday shopping done? Well, today is your day. Here is the first of four local artist markets happening on December 10. Here, artist Meg Leslie opens her home and studio to visitors to see her works alongside the works of her friends. Gourmet food, art, women’s fashion and ceramics.

Market • Free • 4pm-9pm

A LITTLE BIRD TOLD ME LITTLE CITY FARM Why not make a day of handmade holiday markets? This one has a focus on eco-conscious goods and is outside with hot cider. Doesn’t that sound lovely? Instagram worthy for sure, and even a possible second date option.

Market • Free • 4pm-8pm

ENCHANTED CHRISTMAS MARKET KW ARTIST CO-OP Located at 142 Waterloo Street, this show is right down the street from the Little City Farm show. It also promises magic. Well maybe not real magic but we’re confident that creations made by local artists will inspire a little holiday spirit. Also open on December 9 from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. in case you can’t do all the markets in one day.

Market • Free • 4pm-10pm

STITCH ‘N’ KITSCH FIRST UNITED CHURCH

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 13 POETS FOR THE PEACE OPEN SESAME Join poets Pamela Mordecai, Tanis MacDonald, Madhur Anand, Sheryl Loeffler, and Laurie D. Graham for a reading and fundraiser to support those directly affected by the Site C dam project in northeastern BC. Poetry • Fundraiser • 7:30pm-9pm

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 14 KWYT’S THE LITTLE PRINCE THE REGISTRY THEATRE A play adaption of the beloved Antoine de Saint Exupery’s novel takes the stage. Follow the adventure of a lost pilot and the Little Prince. “It is only with the heart that one can see rightly.”

Play • $14-18 • 9pm

WHEN CHRISTMAS FALLS ON PETERBOROUGH KW LITTLE THEATRE The Rob Viscardis film will be screened in full with musical interludes performed live by the Weber Brothers band.

Performance • $17 in advance • 8pm

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 15 WINTERSLEEP / FAKE PALMS STARLIGHT Wintersleep, the Juno award winning indie rock band from Nova Scotia throw down with Torontobased band Fake Palms. Purchase tickets online.

Music • 19+ • $25 • 9pm

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 16 CHRISTMAS PARTY THE BOATHOUSE Starting the Christmas-partyseason early, Boathouse brings three acts to the stage. Pay no cover and see Vintage Playground, Relic City, and To The Trees.

Music • Free • 9pm

Wow, December 10 is a busy day for makers in this region. If anyone makes it out to every market you should tweet us about it. Maybe write a story. The Stitch ‘n’ Kitsch Winter Show is expected to bring out high numbers in attendance – so get there early to not miss out on some great handcrafted wares. This market starts the earliest so maybe go there first.

Market • Free • 10am-5pm

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 11

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 18 YULETIDE SPECTACULAR CENTRE IN THE SQUARE The Snowman will be screened on stage with the original orchestral score performed by the KW Symphony. This wholesome holiday tradition takes the stage starting Friday, December 16. Four performances.

Music • Film • $13-87 • 2:30pm

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 20 IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE PRINCESS ORIGINAL Every time a bell rings an angel gets his wings. Presented by The Beat Goes On, the classic It’s A Wonderful Life will be returning to the big screen. Free admission with Food Bank donation.

Film • Free with donation • 6:30pm

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 21 SHORTEST DAY FILMFEST QUEEN’S SQUARE, CAMBRIDGE On the winter solstice, also known as the shortest day of the year, watch a selection of short films from the National Film Board’s Short Film Celebration 2016.

Quality over quantity, ya dig?

Community • Free • all day drop in

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 23 FRIENDSMAS JANE BOND Join DJ Haylien, DJ Boogaloo Shrimp & DJ Darth Naderrr as they spin a little soul, R&B, and 90s hip hop.

Every year this party is a fun party, so it’s logical to think that this year will be the same.

Fun • No cover • 10pm

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 27 ELORA GORGE KENNEL CLUB DOG SHOW BINGEMAN’S Learn about ownership and the sport of purebred dogs from professional breeders, groomers and handlers. Tl;dr go pet a fancy doge.

Open until December 29.

Community • $3-$5 • 9am-5pm

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 28 GIFT OF LIGHTS BINGEMAN’S Love it when you see a really spectacular light display on a house? Gift of Lights is a two kilometre holiday light display whose pièce de résistance is a 200 foot light tunnel. Children and adults all love pretty lights at night.

Runs from November 18 to January 1. Purchase tickets online.

Fun • $20/car • 5pm-10pm

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 30 SAFE AS HOUSES, LUKE MICHIELSEN, HUNGRY LAKE THE BOATHOUSE The title says it all. Safe as Houses, a 5-piece indie folk band, perform with Luke Michielsen and Hungry Lake, who are also probably musicians.

Music • $7 • 9pm-11:30pm

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 31 REINVENTING BALLROOM NYE THE WALPER HOTEL It’s been a rough year, so celebrate its ending in style at the Walper.

Learn new dance moves, eat delicious food, and count down to midnight. Come for the Tim Moher Dance Band, and stay for the latenight finger-food buffet. Advance tickets available online.

Party • $75 • 8pm • 19+

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