VOID
VOLUME 23 ISSUE 8
FEBRUARY 13, 2019
“I was born to find goblins in their caves / And chase moonlight / To see shadows and seek hidden rivers / To hear the rain fall on dry leaves / And chat a bit with death across foggy nights / I was born to watch owls in dark forests / And hear coyotes cry / To feel trees tremble and the grass sleep / To taste cold air and smell the damp earth / And watch ghostly shapes disappear across foggy nights.” J. Kavanaugh
A C T S
1 7 : 1 9 - 2 0
THE DORM THAT CRIED FIRE
THE SEXUALITY SURVEY
I AM BLACK HISTORY
The fire alarm fallacy.
A comparative survey and discussion, 10 years later.
“This month is about educating people out of love and speaking up against injustice.”
PG. 5
PG. 10-11
PG. 6
2
Our Our Team Team
Sabine Henderson Managing Editor
Janae Gartly Visual Editor
Kelsey Morris Academy Editor
Kennedy Dragt Arts + Culture Editor
FROM THE EDITOR “Thereʼs so much I should say, so many things I should tell him, but in the end I tell him nothing.I cut a line and my losses, and I light a cigarette.” - Clint Catalyst, Cottonmouth Kisses
Maxwell Stow Web Editor
Manfred Dewsbury Layout Editor
Ishita Wilson News Editor
Bailey Broadbent Sports Editor
In August of 2018, my heart was set on a vision for this paper, and we opened the door to that vision with a pocket-sized zine and a whole lot of carrot cake. Eight issues and a host of emotional and intellectual escapades later, and my vision has changed. In fact, change is putting it lightly—I had to forsake most of my original vision. Somewhere deep down I knew this would happen. I went into this role knowing full well that my effort was going to be incredibly thankless and hardly profitable, that any aspirations of making a lasting impact on my university would probably crack within the first few weeks. I went into this role knowing that there was no one wiping away a tear of joy after hoping fervently that I would be the one picked for the job. The decision to become Editor-in-Chief was a sudden one, a brick that hit me in the head in late February and left a permanent bruise. Past, potential, and acting Editors-in-Chief faithfully pass down the mantra that the most important part of our job is our vision. The tone I set for the paper is what is supposed to, supposedly, carry on throughout the issues and leave that lingering aftertaste when students recall the year I was in charge. I have come, now, to feel otherwise. I have come to realize just how much of the paperʼs success depends on you. Those of you who research and write articles at three in the morning, and those of you who drop out last minute. Those of you who believe in our tireless efforts to make this campus a better place, and those of you who publicly criticize us. It has been a personal privilege to see students write about what hurts and about what matters, and it
Nyssa Morgan Humour Editor
Hannah DeVries Photo Editor
Richard Enns Advertising + Finance Manager
Sierra Ellis Illustrator
Emma Dykstra Staff Writer
Hazal Senkoyuncu Social Media Manager
has been heartbreaking to watch our team efforts crash against a wall of apathy. When we conducted the Satisfaction Survey at the end of last semester, we received multiple comments begging us to be more open about our writing and editing process, and to be more open to the public in general. So, we planned a workshop for all those interested. We advertised, lured students in with free food and our readiness to work with them, and showed up ready to connect with the student body. One person showed up. Maybe I overestimate the interest others have in what I—we—do to create Marsʼ Hill from scratch. Maybe we are simply part of the equation of a blissfully passive student experience, one where you can conveniently exist and even thrive without having to contribute to the little part of the world you call home. It hurts to even think in the way, because this paper is not just a passion project of mine—it is your passion project, too. The apathy I have been met with while on the job from those who are holding rotten tomatoes before the show has even started has made me realize one simple thing. I am powerless to motivate you to make a change, however small, if that motivation does not already exist within you. That, precisely, is the void.
Mars’ Hill Marsʼ Hill is a student publication of Trinity Western University, floated with funds raised by the Student Association. Marsʼ Hill seeks to be a professional and relevant student publication, reflecting and challenging the TWU community, while intentionally addressing local, national, and international issues.
Mission to Mars The mission of Marsʼ Hill, as the official student newspaper of Trinity Western University, is to inform and entertain its readers, cultivate awareness of issues concerning the TWU community, and provide a forum for purposeful, constructive discussion among its members in accordance with the Community Covenant, Statement of Faith, and Core Values of the University.
Editorial Policy Marsʼ Hill encourages submissions and letters to the Editor. Marsʼ Hill reserves the right to edit submissions for style, brevity, and compatibility with the Mission, Statement of Faith, the Community Covenant, and the Core Values of the University. Anonymous authorship of any material may be granted at the discretion of the Editor-in-Chief. Opinions expressed in Marsʼ Hill belong to the individual authors and do not necessarily reflect those of the editorial board, Trinity Western University, its officials or its Student Association.
Contributors: Quinton Mischuck Heather Collins Ethan Letkeman Kevin Redekop Ava Sawatzky Jessica Baldwin Monica Rawlek- Daniel Wilkinson Elizondo Jordyn Field Madison Fleischer Connor Thiessen Tim Bamgbade Emmett Hanly Grace Giesbrecht Carter Sawatzky Janae Garly Riley Voth Makena Wardle Caleb Spyksma
This Issue Brought to You By: Chrisaleenʼs Cookies It was Yeet in the Street When bitches throw tomatoes make spaghetti A celebration and some kisses Sanae and Jabine
Media Advisor: Loranne Brown 7600 Glover Road Langley, British Columbia, Canada v2y1y1 marshill@gmail.com marshill.news
Whatʼs the best place to find love?
-Niki Mara
Senior Editors:
Niki Mara
Editor-in-Chief
Sabine Henderson Managing Editor
Hannah Fletcher
Chief Copy Editor
Janae Gartly
Visual Editor
DE-CLASSIFIEDS It it just me... or is Leon Braun
Submit your declassifieds at: www.marshill.news/ declassifieds
stop submitting tweets to the declassifieds and leave room for original content ya ch*des
Cal: “I’m an eco-feminist: don’t rape Mother Nature, don’t rape a woman” Also Cal: *AGGRESSIVELY DRIVES A DIESEL VW GOLF BILLOWING BLACK SMOKE*
Dear bookstore caf baristas: you guys rock. Thank you for working so hard and being so kind. :)
LEGALIZE GAY WEED
Glen Johnston is a QT3.14
my body is a temple of bread
I think you mean chickadees, you magnificent human being.
The Bolivia Global Projects team is FIRE
PSA to the girl’s dorm who always takes the back table at the caf: I can’t hear myself think when I sit anywhere near you guys... but I must admit, y’all are hilarious.
My name is not Josh Klassen and maybe I’d like to sleep in peace some days
Maybe I should dress up like a microwave. Then a guy will actually take me out.
If your “favorite FAT birds” are very small, they might be black-capped chickadees? If not here’s a list of birds to look through https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_birds_of_British_Columbia
rip @ me
Pillar, bring back the SUPPLEMENT
milk = cow juice
Dang these thirstyears are ambitious, trynna get elected to TWUSA already
The perfect date. Clever, Tabitha. get you a guy that knows the difference between your and y’our
you’re not single if you have a relationship with Jesus - what i tell myself to sleep better at night
Alex Pernsteiner is hot and really good at his writing centre job <3
Ben Meadows has a crush on whoever is the most popular in the room first the facts then the nudity
CalBer VinGen 4 SAMC Rep these sidewalks are almost as salty as me
Panic! At the registrar
I think DTPs are better than DTRs. Why look for love to warm you up inside when you can have Pho? Hmu if you are DTP. - that sounds phon.
let’s go get some. - Niki
you sickos only listen to sicko mode and I’m sick of i—- did half a Xan thirteen hours ʻtil I land!!!
SNAh or nah?
Mars’ Hill is like the Trinity juice
prepare to meet the new permafusion being, lucascathy. that’s just how marriage works
I sometimes forget that McMillan exists.
@cristian dragomir you’re fine, be my valentine? -a girl in your English class
20-Gay-Teen is over :(. 20-Bi-Teen is in babey!!!!!!
SNA is straight fire this year
Profs’ only weakness: youtube autoplay
Joshua Lund for VP of Bucket game
Fear is getting fake nails for the first time and then realising you’re going to have to take out your contacts that night.
My only social interaction with the TWU community is through Mars Hill. Who am I?
ppl hate on mars’ hill just for the thrill of feeling superior for 30 seconds and that’s the tea sis
A Commuter!
How am I? I just had three cookies and a cigarette and I’m FINE
Popular opinion: Alex Pernsteiner is an incredible bassist egg
Kudos to whoever thought filing the entire theology section under “BS” was a good idea. It gives me joy every time I see it. Tod Dutka is the Jordan Peterson of TWU the McMillan windows’ drafts are worse than mine :((( STILL looking for a decent Catholic man here. I might have to flirt to convert instead... Where did TWU matchmaker go?
Men of TWU, wonder why you’re still single? this may be why...https:// getyourgirlnow.wixsite.com/website
Can my love language be LC sushi?
You can join in the fight against the corporatization of YouTube. Help Pewdiepie defeat T-series. Subscribe to Pewdiepie. I’m bi and I love Mars’ Hill!! Niki Mara is a beautiful human being
why doesn’t the enneagram tell me if i’m funny or not...
You hear that? It’s the sound of Bronwyn laughing. What a gem.
PSA: That hot new security guard has a gf, R.I.P. thirst years (& 4th)
I wonder how many times Frits will be mentioned this time By the time you read this, it will be two days too late to wish Nyssa Morgan a happy 21st birthday
Dammit, Janet - Janae Bring back the Steenkamps
3
Yeah sex is cool but have you ever had a good education
only butts on my profile, thanks
Freshman 15 who?? I don’t know her...I’m too busy starving because Trinity forced me to pay $1800 per semester for 7 meals a week and then tries to pass off the vegetarian mush as real food... Being on Pillar gives you the power to decide the photo fate of your foes.
Shout out to all my in-closet-crew, you ain’t alone.
Marsʼ Hill editors reserve the right to edit or reject submissions based on content and/or length. A printed submission does not necessarily reflect an endorsement of any kind, nor does it necessarily reflect the opinions of Marsʼ Hill staff, the student association, or that of the University. In fact, probably not.
CONTRIBUTOR OF THE ISSUE
What is your name? Connor Thiessen What is your major? Theatre Where are you from? Calgary, AB What is something you believe in, something you’re passionate about and want to share with the world? I want to create art and literature that interacts honestly and authentically with today’s culture, while also having that spark of Christian hope and grace laced into it. I also believe strongly in the power of humour and comedy as a way to cope with the madness and anxiety that comes with the human experience. If you had to stand on one surface for the rest of your life, what would it be? A giant MIDI pad that plays drum beats as I walk.
“Church #Jesusisallyouneed” —Lucy Chuang
What is your favourite article you’ve written for Mars’ Hill and why is it important? A couple years ago, when the whole issue of “community” at TWU started ramping up, I wrote a satire article about how TWU’s true origins are found in a Rastafarian drum circle. I just feel like that article was a good sample of what I try to do with my writing. Why do you write for Mars’ Hill? I write for Mars’ Hill (particularly for the Humour section) because I think it’s healthy to take a step back from our Christian liberal arts university culture and poke fun at it. What is your favourite body part? The chin. There’s something about a strong jawline that can’t be beat. Also, I like my beard.
This could be you! Each issue, we will feature a contributor here that has submitted consistent, relevant, and thoughtful content. Send your submissions to marshill@gmail.com!
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news
In Attendance of a Conference at the United Nations
Ishita Wilson
The powerful speakers of today
Monica Rawlek Elizondo Flying across the world for a three-day conference at the United Nations and coming back just in time for finals was not something I thought I would be doing when I first started this school year, but I am so thankful to God for such an opportunity. Attending this conference rocked me to the very core of my being, and I know that I will never be the same. I briefly summarize two of the speakers at the event here, but there was so much more that happened during my time in Thailand. Now, coming back from this conference, I am trying to build a foundational understanding of peace and why we should all strive to see a peaceful world. Hyppolite Ntigurirwa Survivor of Rwandan Genocide To attempt to accurately convey the story that Hyppolite shared during this conference would be doing an injustice to the horrors he had to endure. He witnessed countless friends and family members brutally slaughtered before his eyes, and yet his story was not one of vengeance, but rather one of peace and reconciliation. During his session, he noted that it was not knives or guns that killed people, and therefore his response now is to seek love and peace. In his commitment to forgiveness, he realizes the importance of continually choosing peace over revenge, no matter how hard it may be. He has been able to embrace the people he once called enemies, and work together to rebuild communities.
Ponheary Ly Survivor of the Khmer Rouge It is better to light a candle than to curse the darkness—a motto for Ponheary Ly who lived in Cambodia during the time of the Khmer Rouge. Her father was killed for being a school teacher, and she witnessed her baby sister starve to death. Millions of people died during the Khmer Rouge, and the country of Cambodia still feels many of the effects of this horrific event. Ponheary noted that the main reason that Cambodia took so long to rebuild after the war is because the Khmer Rouge put an emphasis on killing all educated people. During her session, Ponheary posed the question: what is possible when people are empowered by education? Education enables people to make informed decisions and pursue the things they are passionate about. She has thousands of children in her schools all across Cambodia now, with many students graduating and going on to universities. These stories were absolutely horrific. Although both Hyppolite and Ponheary responded with the hope of seeking change and peace in the world, this often is not the case. How are we as Christians called to live in the world? How do we do justice to value that the Other is a being made in the image and likeness of God as well? What is it that you owe, and what would our world look like of we did justice to each other’s worth? These questions should be the basis of the conversations we must have today, which is why I want to leave them with you.
TWUSA Election Results President Quinton Mischuk
75.92%
No Candidate
7.61%
VP of Student Relations Monica Rawlek Elizondo 75.92% No Candidate
Thank you for your support in my vision for TWUSA! I am extremely excited and honoured to be in this position—I know God has some big things in store for us, and I can’t wait to experience that with you. I am looking to working off of the current team’s momentum to accomplish our big goals and to create opportunities for every student. I am also looking forward to welcoming our new President Dr. Mark Husbands and to show him the heart of our incredible community. Again, thank you for your continued support; we are excited to be able to serve you next year!
Quinton Mischuk
Vice President Ethan Letkeman
85.22%
No Candidate
14.78%
VP of Finance Ava Sawatzky
91.49%
No Candidate
8.51%
I want to be transparent in how TWUSA invests its money as well as be financially accountable. TWU provides a unique opportunity for students to be developed intentionally. Our development is multi-faceted as we want to develop socially, academically, and spiritually. Using TWUSA funds, I want to accomplish this goal through a variety of social events and informative sessions designed for every student’s benefit.
Ava Sawatzky
5.94%
Advocacy is a passion of mine and I want to hear how TWUSA can better serve you next year! I started my campaign under the conviction that if every student on this campus doesn’t know and feel like they can come to TWUSA with questions, suggestions, or concerns they may have, then TWUSA is unable to do its job, which is why I believe it is crucial that this year we not only emphasize advocacy, but approachability as well. Let’s work together to see a TWUSA that passionately advocates for all students—a TWUSA that is here for you.
Monica Rawlek Elizondo
VP of Academic Relations Madison Fleischer
50.50%
No Candidate
22.06%
Fostering an inclusive TWUSA is important to me since students should feel well-represented and supported throughout their TWU journey. Something I am strongly advocating for is the transparency of our executive and ensuring easy accessibility. I look forward to connecting with the student body and building strong relations with faculty deans. Using TWUSA funds, I want to accomplish this goal through a variety of social events and informative sessions designed for every student’s benefit.
Since last year, I have been eyeing the position of the TWUSA Vice-President, as that is where I believe I can serve best on campus. I am honoured to have been elected and am thankful to those who have supported me along the way. TWUSA has great potential to serve the campus beyond what meets the eye; therefore, the executive team is committed to giving the student body a meaningful experience here. It is important that we not only continue to build TWUSA’s relationship with the student population, but that we build relationships with faculty and alumni as well. This will be critical in getting meaningful work accomplished, while bridging connections across campus.
Ethan Letkeman
Madison Fleischer
“Skinny dipping” —Janae Gartly
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The Dorm That Cried Fire The fire alarm fallacy
Grace Giesbrecht
At 1:30 a.m. on a rainy October morning, a student burned a bagel in Fraser Hall and quickly hurled the smoking toaster out the window. Unfortunately, this last-ditch effort to keep the fire alarms from going off failed, and the building had to be evacuated. This was not the first false fire alarm, nor will it be the last. Due to the abundance of these fire alarms in the absence of fire, residents dubbed the alarms as faulty and expected repairs. However, fixing the fire alarms was not part of the plan; instead, on Wednesday, November 28, 2018, Fraser Hall was put on fire alarm probation. In early February, that probation period ended and all toasters and microwaves were removed from Fraser dorms. In a building-wide meeting that night, Director of Community Life Erin Thiessen informed Fraser residents of the new two-alarm limit per semester—a response to an alarm inspection that took place previously. Though it started as a quick check of sensors and alarms, it quickly became a full-fledged inspection involving confiscation of some personal property that was deemed hazardous. “It makes perfect sense how it escalated,” said Thiessen. The fire department wanted to confiscate all hazards upon inspection, but during the meeting, Thiessen told Fraser residents, “[you] deserve a trial period where you can show us that you can be responsible about this.” Thiessen said that administration did not want to take this drastic step of removing microwaves and toasters, but Fraser is currently costing TWU a lot of money. It costs TWU $300 every time the fire department is called. However, Thiessen is hopeful that, with proper care on the part of the students, the constant false alarms will stop. Fraser’s smoke detectors themselves are not the problem. “The equipment is functioning exactly as it needs to,” said Jo Jansen, Assistant Director of Risk and Safety at TWU, “it’s not overly sensitive.” Instead, the problem stems from cooking in the individual dorm lounges. Even using a toaster or microwave that is not properly cleaned is a risk. “The dorm lounges are not like your kitchen at home,” Jansen explained. The placement and number of smoke detectors in Fraser compared to other dorms is a contributing factor to the ratio of alarms between buildings. The official fire alarm count this year stands here: Douglas has had three
alarms—one of which was a real fire. McMillan and Skidmore have had two each. Fraser has had 15. Following Christmas Break, the fire alarms blared once, then twice, and the breach of the trial period placed in November caused a confiscation of all microwaves and toasters in Fraser Hall in an effort to minimize alarms and the risk of fire. The prohibition of appliances is headed by the Langley Fire Department, not Student Life. But it was not the fire department that initially removed them. Instead, these appliances were taken by students who left other students’ phone numbers on fake fire department posters. According to Thiessen, the final decision to remove the microwaves was made after the prank. Education about fire safety and cooking in dorms is going to be the key aspect in reducing the number of fire alarms moving forward, Jansen explains. The false alarms are “counterproductive on every level,” both to the university and to the students. The false alarms pose a safety risk as well. Fraser resident Sydney Dvorak experienced this first hand. “It’s unsafe because we take the alarms less seriously,” says Dvorak. “When the fire alarm goes off at one in the morning, I’m not going to think that the building’s on fire. I’m going to think some idiot tried to make bacon in their microwave.” If the alarm sounds for a real fire, Dvorak explains, many residents would only assume that it is another false alarm, and stay in a burning building. Jo Jansen says that it is like “the boy who cried wolf.” Dvorak agrees with him. “Except, it’s the dorm that cried fire,” she says. These false alarms have brought Fraser Hall itself to the attention of the fire department, according to Thiessen. It is an old building, and a fire would be potentially disastrous. This fire risk and the amount of fire alarms have become two separate issues, though linked. The fire department has come down hard on other appliances as well, including extra furniture and decorations. Many of the walls in dorm lounges have been stripped down to their beige spackle paint in an effort to keep Fraser standing. The actual risk of fire in Fraser Hall, the risk to students who have come to ignore the constant fire alarms, and appliances that could cause fire create a situation that Thiessen aptly describes as “a perfect storm.”
“When the fire alarm goes off at one in the morning. Iʼm not going to think that the buildingʼs on fire. Iʼm going to think some idiot tried to make bacon in their microwave.”
“Tinder” —Chrisaleen Ciro
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Tim Bamgbade I initially wrestled with the idea of writing this piece on Black History Month for two reasons. First, I felt as though I was not the right person to speak on this topic. Second, from personal experience from my three years at Trinity Western University, I assumed that most people reading this would simply not care. The problem with both reasons is that the purpose of Black History Month is not to make people care or to suddenly give black people a right to speak up; Black History Month is so much more than that.
of black Canadians and to recognize February as Black History Month. It received unanimous approval, and in March of the same year, Canada’s Parliament officially began to support Black History Month.
This celebration originally began in 1926 when Professor Carter Woodson and the Association for the Study of African American Life and History started Negro History Week. At that time, American history was taught as though African Americans were never part of the story, and sadly this has not changed much in many parts of America.
Canadian black history is rich with Canadians who have accomplished great things. Lincoln Alexander was a lawyer, the first black Member of Parliament, a war veteran, and is best known as the former lieutenant governor of Ontario. Viola Davis Desmond became famous when she refused to sit in the balcony of the Roseland Theatre in New Glasgow, Nova Scotia and sat on the floor reserved exclusively for white people instead. Desmond was arrested, jailed, and fined. The government of Nova Scotia posthumously pardoned Desmond and apologized to her family after she died in 1995 at the age of 50.
However, it is important to remember black pioneers within various fields who have contributed towards the improvement of our lives today. The man who invented the automatic transmission many of us use in our vehicles today was an African American named Richard Spikes. Benjamin Banneker, a black mathematician, invented the clock. Alexander Miles invented elevator doors. John Pickering invented the blimp. Dr. Charles Drew has saved an endless number of lives through his establishment of the blood bank. George Sampson invented the laundry dryer. Lewis Latimer invented the electric lamp and the carbon filament, which is a major component in light bulbs. Garret Morgan invented the gas mask. The list goes on.
February should not be the only month of the year during which black history is considered important, because systematic oppression occurs every single day. Furthermore, the week of February 7 was chosen for Negro History Week because it included the birthdays of both Abraham Lincoln (February 12) and Fredrick Douglass (February 14). Frederick Douglass was a former slave and an active abolitionist, so his birthday was celebrated for obvious reasons. Abraham Lincoln was celebrated for the Emancipation Proclamation that eventually freed many American slaves; although Lincoln believed that black and white people should not have equal rights, he was able to acknowledge the undeniable fact that slavery was immoral. Eventually, Negro History Week evolved into Black History Month, and it has been a controversial concept ever since. In Canada, people of African descent have been a significant part of shaping the country’s heritage and identity. The role of black people in Canada is very rarely viewed as a key feature in Canada’s history, and there is little to no mention of the sacrifices made in wartime by Black Canadian soldiers dating as far back as the war of 1812. Celebrations of black history began in Canada shortly after Negro History Week was developed in 1926. Since Black History Month started in the United States, it took time for it to spread globally. It was not until 1995 that the House of Commons officially recognized February as Black History Month, following a motion introduced by the first black Canadian woman elected to Parliament, the Honorable Jean Augustine. In February of 2008, the first black senator, Senator Donald Oliver, introduced the motion to recognize contributions
Black History Month has gained traction in recent years, and Canadians across the country are invited to participate in its festivities.
Willie O’Ree was the first black player in the National Hockey League who made his debut with the Boston Bruins in the 1957/1958 season. Donovan Bailey was a Jamaican-born Canadian who once held the world record for the 100-metre sprint. Bailey won three world championships and two gold medals at the 1996 Olympics. William Hall was the first black person to receive the Victoria Cross. Hall was born in Nova Scotia to former slaves who left the United States because of the War of 1812. After becoming a sailor and joining the Royal Navy, Hall was awarded the Victoria Cross after securing a British garrison in Lucknow, India, while serving on HMS Shannon. Not every country in the world observes Black History Month, but those that do recognize it include Canada, Germany, Ireland, The Netherlands, The United Kingdom, and The United States. The Pan-African flag is often used to represent Black History Month. The flag has three colors, each with a different meaning. Red represents the blood that unites all people of Black African ancestry across the world and the blood that was shed for liberation. Black represents the black people who exist as a nation, though not a nation-state. Green represents the natural abundant wealth of Africa, the same wealth that has been stolen by many of the same countries that claim to be aiding Africa to this day. Now you know why, when, and how Black History Month began, but allow me to conclude by highlighting what this month means to people. For some, it is a reminder of how important it is to have pride in being black. For others, it involves addressing the ongoing effects of colonialism, systematic oppression, and racial injustice that many of us face today. For many, this month is about educating people out of love and speaking up against injustice. The biggest issue with Black History Month is the fact that we even need a month to celebrate black history. The celebration of black history is a step in the right direction, and one can only hope that it inspires much-needed change. To me, this month is not a time to reverse the roles and attempt to oppress white people. February should not be the only month of the year during which black history is considered important, because systematic oppression occurs every single day. To me, this month means knowing that black lives matter and speaking up when people act as though they do not matter. To me, this month means celebrating black success, black heritage, and black heroes. To me, Black History is who I am.
“The Lower Caf” —Elza Coutinho
academy
7
Kelsey Morris
Purity pt. 3 Anonymous We made the promise hundreds—no, thousands—of times that this time would be the last. We promised that tomorrow we would wake up and finally live in liberation, free to love God and others with a pure heart. Instead, night after night, like a prisoner to his cell, we return to the thing that—if only for only a moment—makes us feel alive. You know what I’m talking about: porn. It is the seductive, salacious Slaver that weakens and shackles us, robbing us of the chance to escape. As a young teen, I saw porn as a playground of pleasure and endless fantasy. In porn, I felt worthy. But the only thing stronger than the pleasure was the guilt that followed. Telling nobody, I suffered in silence for years. When I came to TWU, I hoped that living in a Christian community would be the cure. But instead, with my newfound independence, it was even easier to hide my addiction, and I continued to retreat into myself. Unlike an addiction to drugs or alcohol, porn is so conveniently anonymous—no one ever has to know. And for about as long as the phone screen is on, porn takes care of every problem. But it doesn’t take a researcher to tell you that our bodies were not made for this. It doesn’t take a pastor to tell you that porn is destroying both your faith and relationships. And I knew all of this, but didn’t know how to stop—or even if I could. Throughout my first two years at TWU, I continued trying to beat the addiction on my own. I found continence occasionally, even for several weeks at a time. Discipleship groups definitely helped, but we shared too infrequently about our struggles for them to have a lasting impact. We supported each other in dorms, where I discovered that most other guys also suffered, but we allowed it to go unspoken outside of “Testimony Night.” In Christian circles, we are all aware that porn is a major issue. Like other universities, TWU has even had numerous porn-themed chapels and talks over the years. But tragically, our accountability ends as soon as the meeting or chapel is over. Once we’ve retreated to our dorm rooms, the temptation begins anew and we’re back where we started. I thought I was destined to repeat the “temptation, porn, shame, confession” cycle for the rest of my life. I lived in hopelessness: a constant mental state of fog where my senses were dulled and life was without meaning.
In the summer between my second and third year, I stumbled across the PornFree Radio Podcast. It was then that I began to learn of the roots of my addiction and how to finally break free. After listening to about 30 episodes of the host telling me I needed to bring someone into my struggles, I finally told a friend. I committed to honesty, bringing into the light that which had been bred in the darkness. I set up internet accountability that would send all my search history to him, and we now talk about our struggles on a regular basis. Reliable accountability has transformed my recovery, allowing me to achieve a level of victory I would never have thought possible. Our sins die when they are brought out of the darkness. While it is true that we have to run from porn, we can only do it if we run with others. In many ways, we have failed to run alongside each other. The vagueness with which we talk about sin is hurting us. We need to find friends, maybe groups in our dorms, an RA, or another leader in our lives who we can be specific and vulnerable with about our addictions.
I thought I was destined to repeat the “temptation, porn, shame, confession” cycle for the rest of my life. After many years of trying to quit porn on my own, I have found that honesty is the only way forward. I believe that today’s Christian culture is lacking in this regard. Where can TWU students struggling with porn addiction go for real, regular, and reliable accountability? The time to hide is over. We need to take this journey together. Our addictions do not have to characterize the rest of our lives. A future exists where you will love and serve others out of joy, one where you won’t count days from the last time you watched porn. A future exists where you follow the passions that God has placed on your heart, becoming freer every day as the bondage of porn is broken. In this future, you are the same person on the inside as you are on the outside, and there are no more secrets. Whatever pleasure I thought I got from the porn cannot compare with the joy I have found in recovery and in Christ. While I am not perfect and still continue to fall short, God is using me to further His Kingdom. And as I become more honest, I find more healing in Christ. This path in darkness isn’t for us to walk any longer. It’s time to stop wandering alone in the barren land. It’s time to form a community that can overcome this together. It’s time to come home.
“The fridge” —Braedon Grover Sunnes
8
Menstrual Cup Q&A with Nae How to help the planet and have an inexpensive period all at once
Janae Gartly Not all ladies have flow caves, and not all flow caves have ladies. The most important thing to cover in the conversation about menstruation education is inclusivity. If anything is taken away from a lesson about nature’s crimson tide, it should be that what works for one person may be completely wrong for another. You do you, and conquer your moon time your way.
of insertion, and once you have that down, getting it out is so much easier. Most cups come with a small stem at the base to help bring the cup down, but this can be irritating, and some users choose to remove the stem once they are more comfortable with using it. You do you, stem or no stem. It might take a couple tries to get the removal down so that the seal is broken before the cup is removed, but that is a lesson learned very quickly... believe me. Break the seal before you yank it. You’ll thank me for that later.
But if you are adventurous, tired of the buckets of money you pour into And to top it all off, cups can last for as long as 10 years with the proper landfills every month, or just ready for something new, I may have a solu- care. The earth will love you, your septic system will rejoice, and it pays for itself after only three cycles when compared to the cost of other menstrual tion for those shark week woes. hygiene management products. If you can get the hang of cups, you might Menstrual cups. You’ve heard about them, and you’ve probably grimaced just raise a quiet hallelujah in the stalls. a bit at the idea, but you’ve landed here in Academy and gotten past the title and the intro. So, welcome. This is an article for all those who bleed on the monthly, know someone who does, or are frankly just super curious. Mechanics of cup usage Before I dive into this, it’s important to note that while menstrual cups might be a solution to more accessible menstrual hygiene for women in North America, they may not be the best (or only) solution available to women globally. Menstrual cups are increasingly popular and show promising results in quantitative research, but there are certainly other possible solutions available for exploration. So, while it is important to illuminate the benefits and potential of menstrual cups, by no means am I implying that this is the cure-all of legitimate human rights issues and quality of life infringement. It’s just one idea in a big world of possibilities, but hear me out: they rule. Here are some answers to your questions to tell you why.
CUP BASICS.
What the heck is a menstrual cup?
Made from surgical grade silicone, menstrual cups are cone-shaped cups inserted into the vaginal canal to collect your flow. The silicone is carefully cured to ensure that there are no leaching chemicals, and can be cleaned after each cycle by boiling the cup in water for a few minutes. The rim of the cup creates a seal inside the vaginal canal that prevents leakage, and keeps your lovely drawers protected from the menace of nature’s least favourite and most inconvenient guest. The pH of the vaginal canal is extremely sensitive, and the absorbency of tampons can muddle the natural state and pH, resulting in higher risk of infection, UTIs, and Toxic Shock Syndrome. The silicone of menstrual cups maintains the body’s natural pH and leaves your lovely flow cave au-sonaturel. So, anything being inserted into the vaginal canal introduces the risk of toxic shock, but menstrual cup users have experienced extremely rare instances of TSS.
Menstrual cups can be inserted a few different ways, depending on the flexibility of the silicone, shape and size of the cup, and personal preference. Simply insert by your fold of choice, rotate/twist the cup to create a seal, and voila. There are also different cup sizes available to accomodate for women who have given birth vaginally. As for how long a cup should be kept in, it’s comparable to tampon use. The average cup holds up to 30ml, and so, depending on average flow, it can be kept in a maximum of 12 hours, and on heavy days only needs to be emptied a maximum of 2-4 times. The question on all of your minds is likely messiness, and I understand the concern there. While it is undeniable that menstrual cups will inevitably get you up close and personal with your nethers, they also may inspire a deeper appreciation for your dear old companion, Flo. Period experiencers, you bleed a whole lot more than you realize, and as unpleasant as it may be at times, it’s a sacred process. For some it is excruciating and triggering, while others barely notice it come and go; but to care for our bodies and our earth in such an intimate, rudimentary, and sustainable way is motivation for many. The sight of your crimson guest might be unsettling at first, but that will likely fade with time and practice. Unless you happen to be a fainter...then maybe consider not stoking that trauma ember.
Are menstrual cups new? Is it just a trend?
Menstrual cups are not new—they have actually been around for quite some time. The first latex menstrual cup was reportedly patented in 1937, with earlier prototypes drafted as early as 1870.
So, go forth and be free. Maybe a cup is a good option for you, maybe it isn’t. But I can assure you that while it may be a leap you never expected to make, you may just find yourself unleashed in your moon time to swim Also, many people wonder about the cup getting stuck. Friends, I can tell in all the pools and lounge in all the bikinis with confidence like no other. you that won’t happen. The biggest hurdle you will face is the maneuvering
“In yourself, probably” —Queenie Rabanes
9
The Call of The Void Riley Voth
*Content Warning: Suicide*
Have you ever stood on a high balcony and thought about how easy it would be to lean forward and fall to your death? Have you ever held a kitchen knife and thought about how easily you could kill someone? If the answer is yes, let me say that you are not insane. Normal people have these thoughts.
2nd century Christian author from Carthage, wrote about how the general would be accompanied by a slave, holding a crown above the victorious general’s head whispering the words “respice post te, hominem te memento” into his ear. This essentially translates to “look behind you, remember that you will die.” You are mortal. You will die.
The French coined the term “l’appel du vide,” which translates to English as “the call of the void.” There have been plenty of theories surrounding this idea, but none of them are definitive. Freud calls it the drives of life and death; Poe calls it the Imp of the Perverse, and psychology researchers call it High Place Phenomenon. The University of Florida claimed in a 2011 study that High Place Phenomenon is a safety mechanism that kicks in when your brain recognizes imminent danger.
As a common theme through the early and medieval church, medieval art featured the idea quite prominently. The spiritual discipline of memento mori was based on fear: remember that you will die and face judgement. Behave, God is watching you. When I was growing up, I used to stand by the ocean during storms and feel the waves shake the rocks beneath my feet. I would walk to the edge of the cliffs and watch the water surge. And I used to think, “what if I just leaned forward?”
When you are on a cliff, your brain introduces the thought of leaping to your death to scare you away from the edge. When you are driving down the road and you think about how easy it would be to swerve into oncoming traffic, you focus, grip the wheel, and drive carefully.
But what if we took age old tradition and infused it with wonder? What if we took the grim mask off of memento mori and found beauty in it?
Now, it is worth noting that there is a difference between thinking,“what if I jumped off this cliff” and “I want to jump.” There is a clear divide between the call of the void and suicidal ideation. The FSU study breaks down the distinction in more detail and scientific terms, if you want more information in that area. Let’s instead add something new to the conversation. Memento mori is Latin for “remember that you will die” or “remember death.” The idea originated in the Roman Triumphus, the procession of a victorious general back into Rome with all the glory and spoils his army could boast. Following the senate and the spoils of war, the general would ride through the streets, in full splendor, revered as a king. Tertullian, a
Maybe the call of the void is a doorway to awe. Maybe as we are struck, slack-jawed staring into the void, we could see something humbling and divine in the depths. When we are faced with mortality, we instead look with childlike wonder at the world created for us, a world so much more powerful than us, yet a world for us to care for. What if we marvelled at life and death with the same passion: the birth of a newborn baby, and the fact that it will one day die. What if the next time you felt small and powerless over mortality, over nature, you didn’t shrug it off and run from it. What if there is beauty in not having control?
Mindfulness Makena Wardle
In the life of a university student, it often feels wrong if you aren’t jumping from assignment to assignment all the time. There seems to always be homework to complete, or a test to study for, or a book you should be researching last minute on SparkNotes. And with this in mind, it’s not surprising that anxiety is so prevalent among those in postsecondary education. According to a recent study by human resources group Morneau Shepell, almost two out of every three university students across Canada went into their 2018 school year experiencing immense anxiety. However, there may be something you can do to help subside the overbearing nerves and stress. “Mindfulness is paying attention to the here and now,” TWU Professor of Psychology Juliet Teeter assured me from the other side of her office desk. Loved by students for more than just her engaging Psychology classes, Teeter is always eager to discuss her passion for the practice of mindfulness. In fact, she was instrumental in the inclusion of mindfulness in TWU’s mandatory Foundations classes, advocating for the positive impacts it has had on her own life and the lives of those she counsels. Teeter explained to me that those struggling with anxiety often have an overwhelming amount of thoughts running through their mind at all times. “What mindfulness does is it helps us to develop the capacity to recognize when our mind is off on a thought, and come back,” she said.
Recently, Harvard researchers put out a study on mindfulness and meditation. The research shows that these practices can lead to observable changes in the amygdala, the part of the brain which detects and processes fear. Mindfulness is also heavily connected to self-compassion. It’s about recognizing what you are struggling with and setting time aside to deal with it. “If there is an anxious thought you keep having, [mindfulness] is recognizing you are having that thought but not beating yourself up that it’s back again,” explained Teeter. So how do we go about pursuing mindfulness? For starters, keep in mind that you are essentially practicing keeping your brain in the present moment. Professor Teeter suggests to set a timer for five or ten minutes and sit in a comfortable position. You will then want to choose something to pay attention to. Often it’s your breath, but you can choose a scripture verse or even a sound—essentially just something to focus your thoughts on. Then, every time that you notice that your mind has wandered away, you recognize that and bring it back to the original thing you chose to focus on. Be gentle with yourself, however, because it isn’t easy to attempt. Yet, over time, you will find that it is easier to focus on the present without letting the stress and anxieties of the future fill your mind.
“Thatʼs a great thought-provoking question” —Eva DeSouza
SEXUALITY SURVEY
who are you?
ANAL SEX 16%
unmarried
MALE
IN A RELATIONSHIP
29%
ENGAGED
44%
3%
OTHER
MARRIED 3%
1%
FEMALE
unmarried
70%
SINGLE 44%
32%
NO
are you sexually active? (unmarried)
unmarried
YES
65%
pornography?
FEMALE
MALE
51%
22%
16%
18%
11%
24%
LESS THAN 1-2 TIMES PER WEEK, BUT MORE THAN ONCE A MONTH
unmarried
how often do you view
NEVER
MALE
have you.. ever had sexual intercourse? (unmarried)
NONE 26%
FEMALE
VAGINAL SEX 30%
MALE
YES
NO
NO
73%
56%
RECEIVING ORAL SEX 40%
OTHER
YES 33%
FEMALE
YES 15%
GIVING ORAL SEX 46%
NO
NO
85%
MANUAL STIMULATION AND EROTIC TOUCHING 54%
68%
ever had a sexual encounter with someone of the same gender? ever had an abortion?
PASSIONATE KISSING 67%
ONCE A MONTH OR LESS
YES 27%
44%
YES 1.1%
OTHER
NO
98.8%
25%
1-2 TIME PER WEEK
18%
8%
50%
ACQUAINTANCE OR SOMEONE I JUST MET
25%
FRIEND
10%
3+ TIMES PER WEEK
CONTENT WARNING: Se including sexual violence an
12%
7%
17%
SPOUSE 1%
OTHER
who was your first sexual encounter with?
5%
I HAVE NEVER
how often do you
FOREWORD:
masturbate? FEMALE OTHER
NEVER MALE
19 14% %
3+ TIMES PER WEEK
OF MORE THAN 3 MONTHS 25%
SIGNIFICANT OTHER OF LESS THAN 3 MONTHS 15%
In 2009, Marsʼ Hill conducted a poll called the “Sexy Survey.” The survey asked the TWU student body questions regarding sexual activity, sexual orientation, abortion, and sexual assault. The results were intriguing—and now, 10 years later, we would like to see how those numbers have changed. We asked the current student body to participate in a short, informal survey online, where the whole process was anonymous and voluntary.
ONCE A MONTH OR LESS
LESS THAN 1-2 TIMES PER WEEK, BUT MORE THAN ONCE A MONTH
37%
SIGNIFICANT OTHER
1-2 TIMES PER WEEK
505 respondents
have you ever been a victim of sexual violence?
(2019) YES
YES 5%
75%
FEMALE
YES 17%
NO 25%
OTHER
NO 95%
NO 83%
YES 5%
MALE
10
YES 13% NO 87%
F
M
DISCLAIMERS
3 OR MORE A
LESS THAN 1-2 PER WEEK, BUT M THAN ONCE A MO
ONCE A
The 2009 survey received 241 responses. This yearʼs survey received 505 responses, which is roughly one eighth of the student body. Due to variables such as age, religious affiliation, the limited reach and scope of the survey, and its informal online format, among others, the results of this survey may be inconsistent or imprecise at times and therefore not entirely accurate in their representation of the TWU student body. Because this survey relies on students to self-report, there may have been select instances of over- or under-reporting as well as fake or duplicate responses, which we took into account when calculating the results. Self-reported surveys are still considered to be a valid tool for research in the academic realm, however, as instances of misreporting tend to be statistically insignificant. This survey is also quantitative, not qualitative, meaning that the questions do not account for the different degrees to which people may or may not agree with the statements. Each question is limited to just a few answer options.
3 OR MORE TIME A WE
1-2 TI AW
ha se so sa
OF LESS THAN 3 MONTHS 14%
26%
NO 74%
Q:
Why did you formulate the questions this way? Why did you not give more options for the question about sexual orientation, for instance?
A:
We wanted to keep our 2019 survey as close as possible in format to the 2009 survey, so we kept the wording of the questions the same. Of course, we could have added more options to choose from or changed how questions were formulated, but that would interfere with accuracy when comparing the two surveys.
YES 3%
NO 97%
how often do you view
pornography?
F
NEVER 88%
2% 2% 9%
A MONTH OR LESS
NEVER 35% 9%
M 23%
14%
ONCE A MONTH
18%
OR LESS
LESS THAN 1-2 TIMES PER WEEK, BUT MORE THAN ONCE A MONTH
ave you ever had a exual encounter with omeone of the ame gender?
YES 5%
NO
95%
FINAL NOTES We recognize that some of the surveyʼs content is sensitive in nature, and addresses intimate and serious topics. If you are personally struggling with any of the discussed topics, we encourage you to reach out to someone you can trust or seek help at the TWU Wellness Centre—they offer workshops and counselling services for students and staff. This survey is by no means meant to judge, discourage, or promote any form of sexual behaviour. It is only meant to reflect the current student body, and is open to interpretation by students, staff, and faculty. While this survey gives insight into a number of topics, it is only a starting point. We want you to interpret and discuss the results in relation to your own experience.
VAGINAL SEX 20%
SIGNIFICANT OTHER
RECEIVING ORAL SEX 29%
OF MORE THAN 3 MONTHS 46%
GIVING ORAL SEX 29%
Q:
MANUAL STIMULATION AND EROTIC TOUCHING 47%
Some of the terms used in the survey such as “sexual encounter” or “sexually active” are quite ambiguous—why did you include questions that could be interpreted in multiple ways?
A:
Besides that the terms were included in the 2009 questionnaire and thus are important to retain for the sake of consistency, they also provide the opportunity for us to discover how students themselves understand their behaviour. Sexual activity is also highly subjective in nature, meaning that similar encounters can be experienced in very different ways. The incorporation of these terms allows for students to express some of their personal interpretation and experience of various encounters within a quantitative survey.
NOTEWORTHY RESULTS & QUESTIONS FOR FURTHER CONSIDERATION In the 2009 survey, there was no option of “other” in the question of gender identification. We added this option in the current survey, and four people identified as “other” when answering that question. Therefore, we are not able to make any general conclusions about the non-binary TWU community, seeing as there is no point of comparison to the previous survey and the small sample size does not allow for an accurate representation of the community at large. Rather, the answers that the respondents provided are characteristic of themselves as individuals. The current survey shows that, compared to the 2009 survey, rates of masturbation and pornography use are notably higher. For example, among females, the current use of pornography three or more times a week is at 12.2%, compared to only 1.6% just 10 years ago. In fact, the numbers in almost all categories of frequency are higher for both women and men than they were in 2009. This raises the question: have the rates in these areas actually increased, or are students simply being more honest with us and themselves about their use of pornography and masturbation? Or, are students more aware of what these terms constitute because of increasing openness and discussion of sexual behaviour? What role has the increasingly easy access to the internet played? These questions, among others, must be considered carefully before drawing any conclusions.
PASSIONATE KISSING 70%
unmarried
YES
IMES WEEK
SIGNIFICANT OTHER
unmarried
While the 2009 survey was called the “Sexy Survey,” we immediately chose a different title for this yearʼs feature, as many of the questions on the survey are not “sexy”—they are a serious and purposeful inquiry into the rates of sexual activity, abortion, and sexual violence within the student body. Referring to personal experiences that may be painful, traumatic, challenging, or shameful as “sexy” would be to deny their true weight and marginalize the stories of those we interact with every day. This is why we named this yearʼs poll the “Sexuality Survey.”
ANAL SEX 5%
25%
unmarried
80%
TIMES MORE ONTH
SOMEONE YOU JUST MET 5%
A:
NO
NONE 29%
8%
Why did you name this feature the “Sexuality Survey?”
20%
E TIMES A WEEK
FRIEND
I HAVE NOT
Q:
YES
ES EEK
WHO WAS YOUR FIRST SEXUAL ENCOUNTER WITH?
unmarried
F.A.Q.s
ensitive content, nd abortion.
how often do you
masturbate?
F
3+ TIMES PER WEEK
1-2 TIMES PER WEEK
LESS THAN 1-2 TIMES PER WEEK, BUT MORE THAN ONCE A MONTH
ONCE A MONTH
M
5% 5% 12% 8%
NEVER
OR LESS
3+ TIMES PER WEEK
26%
70%
NEVER 18%
ONCE A MONTH 13%
OR LESS
24% 1-2 TIMES PER WEEK
18% LESS THAN 1-2 TIMES PER WEEK, BUT MORE THAN ONCE A MONTH
241 respondents
(2009)
According to the response data, 12 of the 15 married participants had their first sexual encounter outside of marriage. Because of the small sample size, however, the 80% is likely not reflective of the experiences of all married TWU students. Both male and female respondents reported a higher rate of sexual violence in the 2019 survey compared to the one conducted 10 years ago. Again, the question remains whether the rates of sexual violence are actually higher now than they used to be, or if we now have a better understanding of what constitutes sexual violence. There is also the concept of awareness—the discussion around the topic of sexual violence has been more prevalent among students in recent years, and this phenomenon may have prompted respondents to be more open about and gain a better understanding of their own experiences with sexual violence.
11
12
arts + culture Kennedy Dragt
Artist Spotlight: Caleb Spyksma
Mars’ Hill: When did you begin to create art? What would you consider to be the highlights of your artistic journey? Caleb Spyksma: Creativity was cultivated in me when I was very young; my parents supplied me with a little easel to paint on, a ton of colouring books, drawing paper, and plenty of Lego. Interestingly enough, I never really wanted to be an “artist.” It wasn’t until high school that I was helped to realize three important things in my artistic journey: first, I was truly passionate about making, and this passion was a gift from the Creator. Second, art could be central to my vocation. And third, the visual arts are not confined to the studio and gallery. This developed my vision for approaching the field of architecture from an art and design perspective, a vision I am now immersed in. MH: Why have you chosen visual arts? What is special about this art form? CS: I think the main reason I do visual art is just because that’s how I think. Art is one of my languages, one of the ways I make sense of the world around me. Also, I believe in a creative God who has made us in His image, which means that he made us creative. Something I see in this particular form of creativity is a way of making connections between materials, ideas, and people. MH: What medium do you prefer to work with? CS: Most of the work I make is mixed media. There are unique conversations that happen when you incorporate a variety of materials into a single work of art, especially when each material holds meaning or story. Those kinds of materials talk to each other visually and conceptually. As an artist, I get this wonderful job of facilitating that conversation. MH: Which of your pieces are you most proud of? Why? CS: I am most proud of my art when it connects with someone other than myself. I love explaining a piece to someone and seeing their eyes light up with understanding, curiosity, or fascination. I thrive when someone else experiences even an inkling of the excitement I feel in the ideas and connections I’m trying to present. MH: Where and how do you find inspiration for your work? CS: Research, research, research. Most artists I know start with sketches, I tend to start with words: quotes, jottings-down, information, reflections.
I tend to spend as much time or more on research than I do on actually making. What I’m looking for is not just information, but rather a way to make profound connections between ideas that seem unrelated. I like to explore “in-between” spaces. It’s in these spaces that I find that potent spark of inspiration. MH: How has being part of the TWU community influenced your journey as an artist? CS: I think it’s really encouraged the interdisciplinary, research-based connectivity that I strive for. I’ve been impressed with how often I’ve been able to do self-directed research on architecture and urban planning-related themes in core courses or in my Sociology minor. This has developed my understanding of how all these things relate to art, and also how art (including architecture) is such an influential force for social change. MH:How does your art or your role as an artist influence your daily life? CS: Being an artist makes me see better. It makes me more aware of the visual world around me, which is both wonderful and problematic. Wonderful because I see beauty everywhere, and it fills me with joy and points my heart towards God, and problematic because I see all the little design flaws and missed creative opportunities in all manner of things. That can really suck, or it can be motivating. But I think the joy of beauty is way bigger than all of that: crumbs off the table of heaven. MH: Where is your favourite place to work? CS: I’m settling into the senior studio space, and I’m slowly learning to enjoy working there. It makes me think that my “favourite” place to work is somewhere I have worked before, over and over again. But there is something absolutely blessed about sketching on a rock above the sea or in a patch of dappled light in some old-growth forest. Creation is a great studio. MH: How do you hope to incorporate your art into life after TWU? CS: I know visual arts will be a part of whatever I do. A master’s degree in architecture is the next step for me right now, and I’ve been working as an intern at an architecture firm for the last year or so, so that’s where a lot of my creative energy is going. But I certainly won’t be leaving the studio behind.
“At Harry Potter con” —Ishita Wilson
13
Rock & Roll Will Never Die Heather Collins
“Long live rock and roll The beat of the drums, loud and bold The feeling is there, body and soul” “Hail! Hail! Rock ʻnʼ Roll” - Chuck Berry It was once the anthem of a generation, a voice that carried the message of a united people that demanded social reform, promoted independent thought, and upheld the love for and recognition of equality for one’s neighbor. Originating in the mid-1950s, Rock & Roll found its roots in the legendary work of blues, country music, gospel, and jazz artists. Bursting onto the scene in 1960s America, Rock & Roll grew to demand not only national consciousness, but also global recognition, inspiring movements of social change and igniting a spark to resist the systems within the government and society that were seemingly set in stone. Singer Patti Smith recalls in her 2010 memoir, Just Kids, “We would call forth in our minds the image of Paul Revere, riding through the American night, petitioning the people to wake up, to take up arms. We too would take up arms, the arms of our generation, the electric guitar and the microphone.” As the genre continued to flourish and evolve, it grew to encompass more than merely powerful electric riffs and mesmerizing beats to which an army of social reformists could march. By the late 70s, the evolution of Rock & Roll began to develop into an entirely new territory, causing many to question if what was advancing in popular music could still be categorized under the same genre. As the 1980s dawned, music saw the birth of synthesized pop and early hip-hop, whose influences slowly advanced to rule the top of today’s charts.
The question is, with the rise and takeover of genres like pop and hip-hop, has the message and influence of Rock & Roll died? Has music become more passive and contrived, as mass production and easy access rule the industry? Forbes music columnist and songwriter Danny Ross states, “Gone are the days of changing the world with three chords and the truth. Now you’ll need three chords, the truth, and an engineer’s ability to make your song sound like the radio.” Although the influence and popularity of Rock & Roll has seen a decline in the last 20 years, it can be argued not only that it is alive and well, but that its legacy is one that needs to see a revival now more than ever. In a time of such uncertainty and global unrest, Rock & Roll, with its message of acceptance, equality, freedom, and love for the fellow man, needs to reclaim its place in culture. This rebirth can already be seen in the rise of bands such as Kaleo, Greta Van Fleet, and The Struts, speaking to the need of regaining a sense of the struggles, joys, and questions that unite us all regardless of race, religion, or sexual orientation in a time of such divided stances and opinion. Author Nora Roberts highlights the necessary presence of Rock & Roll: “It’s a voice that often screams out questions, because the answers are always changing. The young play it because they’re searching for some way to express their anger or joy, their confusion and their dreams. Once in a while, and only once in a while, someone comes along who truly understands, who has the gift to transfer all those needs and emotions into music.” As long as this voice resonates with even a small group of individuals who see the need for its presence and its legacy, Rock & Roll will never die.
Should We Forgive Them? Emma Dykstra
To be the host of the Oscars is on the bucket list of many of Hollywood’s biggest celebrities; it was the dream of comedian Kevin Hart. So, when he was asked to host the 2019 ceremony, Hart met the invitation with celebration. But this joy was short lived. Hart’s homophobic tweets from 2008 were unearthed from the Twitter graveyard the day after the announcement; Hart was told to apologize for the Tweets or be stripped of his title as Oscars host. His response? He stepped down from achieving his lifelong dream. This has become a familiar phenomenon in the world of Hollywood. Many celebrities have said insensitive things in the past, and now that we live in times where we are more sensitive to these issues, it is very easy to find an offensive comment from a well known figure hidden in the deep dark past. Kevin Hart is not the only celebrity to have his past come back to haunt him. Riverdale’s Charles Melton made a public apology for his fat shaming tweets from 2012 just recently after fans recovered the crude messages in 2018. Director of the Guardian of the Galaxies movies, James Gunn, was fired in the summer of 2018 for tweets that joked about rape and pedophilia from back in 2008.
It seems like the amount of backlash they receive today is punishment enough for their ancient cruel words.
The real question is, should these people face the consequences 10 years later? The idea of people’s lives being destroyed over past mistakes seems to be a popular trend. Currently, a United States Democratic governor, Ralph Northam, is facing backlash for a racist photo found in his 1984 college yearbook and is even being asked to resign. Though he denies being the person in the offensive photo, many people do not believe him and think he should lose his job over the picture. Obviously, the messages posted from the past are offensive and not suitable for a public personality to be sharing, back then or today. However, as the way we discuss sensitive topics evolves, so do people’s ways of thinking. Often, these people have vowed to change their way of thinking and their lives, or at least learned to be quiet long before the distasteful comments were unearthed. Kevin Hart pointed out that someone had to go through 40,000 of his old tweets to find the hurtful messages. Hart has said that he will be stepping down as Oscars host not only because he does not want to apologize for something he has already apologized for, but also because he worries that a night meant to celebrate the talent of those in the film industry will now be a night about Kevin Hart’s Oscars controversy. Unfortunately it is too late for that. The damage has already been done. People make mistakes, but people can also change their perspectives and re-examine their beliefs. How can we be sure to hold people accountable for their actions while also recognizing the importance of forgiveness? It seems like the amount of backlash they receive today is punishment enough for their ancient cruel words. Perhaps it is time to move on and focus on the people who are still saying these kinds of things.
“The smoke pit” —Nick Ster
14
Oscars 2019
The Favourite
This razor sharp, female-led comedic tragedy tops this critic’s list as the best and most twisted film of the year. Olivia Colman (playing Queen Anne), Emma Stone (playing Abigail, a fallen aristocrat) and Rachel Weisz (playing Lady Sarah, companion to the queen) are all fabulous in Yorgos Lanthimos’ tale of manipulation and sexuality. A period piece like no other, The Favourite is a truly unique genre-defying experience.
Roma
Throughout this soulful masterpiece, director Alfonso Cuaron paints a beautiful picture of real life, unveiling the painful truth behind childhood memories and the complicated nature of love. As he places the individual story of a young maid and the middle-class family for which she works against the background of the 1970s Mexican political upheaval, Cuaron provides audiences with beautiful a look into the depths of humanity. Yet, not only does this piece have extensive emotional value, it is an aesthetically moving work of cinematic art.
Vice
As the credits start rolling at the end of this film, two things become clear. First, Christian Bale, Amy Adams, and Sam Rockwell are masterful actors. Second, Adam McKay absolutely hates Dick Cheney. While McKay’s critique of Cheney may not be controversial, his hatred blinds him from any objective view of those he disagrees with.
A Star is Born
Bradley Cooper’s directorial debut, A Star is Born, is passionate and emotional but has a few missteps along the way. A remake of a 1937 film with the same title, it follows the love story of an alcoholic musician who falls for a budding singer. While the concert scenes are spectacular, the scenes in between are lackluster at best. Lady Gaga (playing Ally, the young singer) transcends her typical diva persona to deliver a powerful performance that is sure to wow audiences. However, despite its technical mastery and fantastic musical performances, the film muddies its own waters with incoherent themes.
Bohemian Rhapsody
Easily the worst film in this group of nominees, Bohemian Rhapsody is surprisingly safe and lacks bold direction. For all of the film’s talk of how Queen (the band) is for outsiders, the film is unbearably cliché. Despite the recent praise, Malek comes across as a parody of Mercury, more disingenuous than his prosthetic teeth. This film will not rock you.
Black Panther
There are filmmakers who adapt comics into film, and there are those like Ryan Coogler, director of Black Panther, who relish in transforming comics into emotionally complex narratives. In this film, Michael B. Jordan transforms himself into Marvel’s best villain, Erik Killmonger, who acts as a foil for Chadwick Boseman’s regal warrior character, Black Panther, forcing him to face his father’s legacy. While some may say Avengers was a roller coaster of a ride, Black Panther exceeds it in its depth. Wakanda Forever!
BlacKkKlansman
There is a tonal balancing act in this film—more so than any other film from 2018—and Spike Lee deserves a standing ovation for that achievement. BlacKkKlansman certainly deals with a heavy subject matter; the weight can be felt simply through its ironic title. Brilliantly casting John David Washington and Adam Driver, Spike Lee gracefully walks the tightrope and unabashedly confronts issues of racial intolerance that have plagued America throughout history. However, the real power of BlacKkKlansman is after the seeming victory of our hero; situated in the past, Lee holds a mirror to America-present, leaving audiences speechless.
Green Book
Ranging from overly simplistic to beautifully complex, this film is a surprising new experience from comedy director, Peter Farley. Viggo Mortensen (playing Tony Lip) and Mahershala Ali (Don Shirley) have fantastic chemistry together. Despite its glossy aesthetic, the conversations between Ali and Mortensen do spark dynamic and complex discussions concerning racial identity. Yet somehow Farley wraps these sensitive issues up in an audience-conscious fashion; it remains viewer-friendly through all the conflict. This film will really pull on your heartstrings.
“So far, not Trinity” — Juliana Chalifour
Best Picture Nominee Review Kevin Redekop
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Supplemental Instruction & Collaborative Study Tips Supplemental Instruction is being offered for these Spring 2019 courses: Business 121 – Financial Accounting Business 176 – Business Research & Decision Making Chemistry 104 – General Chemistry II Chemistry 222 – Organic Chemistry II Math 102 – Introduction to Probability & Statistics Biology 114 – Principles of Biology II Biology 242 – Human Anatomy & Physiology II Three things you might not know about Supplemental Instruction: 1.IT’S COMPLETELY FREE! 2.Supplemental Instruction Leaders facilitate discussion sessions for students, allowing for students to participate in dialogue with each other and the leader in an attempt to fully grasp the concepts of the course. Leaders also utilize study and learning techniques along with practical exercises to direct the student to personal academic success. 3.Supplemental Instruction is not a remedial program! It is intended for all students in all stages of the course. Haven’t read the course material? Come by! Know the material like the back of your hand? Come by! Student discourse and facilitation allows for everybody to learn no matter what stage you are in. If Supplemental Instruction is not offered in your course, here are some tips for collaborative study!
Collaborative Studying Tips Plan and set forth clear group goals. Goals keep the group on task and allow for direction. It’s okay if you don’t achieve all your goals in a session; rather, look at what you and your group have accomplished! 1. Let’s face it—we’ve all been invited to a study group that was just way too big. Are we studying or celebrating the New Year? Keep your study group sizes to a number you can count on one hand. Large groups cause distraction; small groups lack diverse ideas and thinking; mid-sized groups, like Goldilock’s porridge, are just right. 2. Always allow open communication. What’s the point of collaborative study groups if no one talks? Bueller? Understanding everyone’s view on a concept opens up a realm of discussion, explanation and clarification. Bueller? 3. Assign roles! Large task? Split it up. Come on, even the Avengers do it! This not only saves time, but also allows for open collaboration and dialogue when group members explain their sections. 4. Now for the most important tip, the DeLorean of tips, the L’Oréal kids shampoo of tips. Never be discouraged! Learning is supposed to be messy and uncomfortable. For obvious reasons, group learning can be even messier. Keep at it and support each other. Finally, know that there are resources and services available for you all around the TWU Campus, including at the Learning Commons.
If you are interested in receiving supplemental instruction, contact Joshua Park at joshua.park@twu.ca. Or, visit the Learning Commons on the 2nd floor of Reimer and inquire at the front desk during regular business hours.
Science, Faith, and Human Flourishing: Conversations in Community Jessica Baldwin
The bridge that lies between science and faith has been built and broken repeatedly throughout history. On this campus, we have an opportunity to open dialogue in these areas—not to shove our opinions down one another’s throats, but to discover the art of being human. Being human means to question, to let our curiosity direct our hearts, and to delve deeper into the meaning behind our existence. We all worship something, or someone, and to deny this is to deny our very nature. However, not everything we worship will satiate our social and existential needs. This question of worship, religion, and an increasing secular world will be explored on March 19th during Dr. Clay Routledge’s lecture “The Wandering Spiritual Mind: Psychology of Religion in a Secular World.” To see the intricacies of the mind is to be called towards a hunger for further understanding. The beauty in its psychological and physiological reality cannot be revealed without digging deeper into discussion and opening a space for honest debate. The same intrigue we lend to our own existence is worthy of the universe and life that exists around us. We cannot ignore the wonder of life arising on Earth, and we need to continue the conversation, engaging one another in humility, openness, and courage. Let’s be a generation that takes into account both science and faith as we pursue human flourishing. The creation vs. evolution debate usually yields more heat than light, with misunderstandings, misrepresentation, dismissals, and accusations running rampant. However, this does not have to be our reality—space, time, and intention
have been dedicated to a constructive conversation, one that we have even more opportunity to engage in this year due to a grant through Fuller Seminary led by Dr. Jaime-Palmer Hague along with a team of other faculty. Dr. Darrel Falk (evolutionary creationist) and Dr. Todd Wood (young-earth creationist) have been discussing their differences for the past six years—with two years of holding weekly Skype calls. This dedication to communication between not only different people but different worldviews illustrates the healthy and rich community we seek throughout life. Falk and Wood model this way of life in their fields of expertise by regarding this conversation as their “Christian responsibility… to grow in [their] understanding of the other.” (http:// toddcwood.blogspot.com/2015/04/dont-be-like-jonah-darrel-falk-responds.html) We will get an opportunity to hear both biologists respond to the question of creation on March 6th from 7—9p.m. in Northwest Auditorium on the TWU campus. The following evening they will discuss their new book, The Fool and the Heretic (Zondervan, 2019), same time, same place. Falk and Wood are also speaking in chapel on Thursday, March 7th, on “Science and Faith: A Conversation in Community.” See twu.ca/flourish, fb.com/flourishTWU , and csca. ca/twu for details, including all the events sponsored through this special project.
“Hopefully TWU or all my tuition money was spent for nothing” —Monica Rawlek Elizondo
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sports Bailey Broadbent
NHL Trade Deadline Primer
A look at the most likely trade candidates leading up to the this yearʼs trade deadline
Bailey Broadbent With just a couple weeks to go before the National Hockey League trade deadline on February 25, there is sure a great deal of activity to come on the trade front. Many teams will be looking to bolster their rosters prior to the Stanley Cup Playoffs, while others will be looking to hit the reset button with the future in mind by acquiring draft picks and prospects. Whichever spot your team finds itself in, you can be sure all 31 NHL teams will be active leading up to this year’s deadline. Here’s a look at the some of the biggest names that could be on the move prior: 1. Artemi Panarin – LW (Columbus Blue Jackets) After breaking out with the Chicago Blackhawks in 2015 and winning the Calder trophy as rookie of the year, the “Bread Man” has been one of the most consistent players, producing at a point-per-game pace thus far in his career. The 27-year-old Russian has made it known he has no interest in negotiating a contract mid season. The Jackets will explore moving Panarin now to negate the risk of losing him this summer for nothing. 2. Sergei Bobrovsky – G (Columbus Blue Jackets) Much like Panarin, Bobrovsky is an established NHLer. After being traded to the Jackets in 2012, Bobrovsky has been one of the best goaltenders in the league. His accomplishments include winning the Vezina trophy in both 2013 and 2017 as the league’s best goaltender. Any teams exploring acquiring the 30-year-old will likely look at signing him long-term rather than a pure rental for a playoff push. 3. Matt Duchene – C (Ottawa Senators) Leading into the 2017/2018 season, it was Duchene who was the top trade candidate, after requesting a trade to a contending team from the Colorado Avalanche. Less than two seasons later and it’s Duchene again who finds himself in the thick of trade rumours with an expiring contract. If the
Sens fail to negotiate a long term extension with him prior to the deadline, they may be forced to deal him. 4. Mark Stone – RW (Ottawa Senators) The Senators will also be looking hard at moving the 26-year-old Stone, whose contract is also expiring at the end of this season. Stone has quietly been one of the NHL’s underrated stars in recent years, producing at a point-per-game pace this season. Should the Senators trade Stone, he could fetch a hefty return of draft picks and prospects the team desperately needs. 5. Gustav Nyquist – RW (Detroit Red Wings) While the Red Wings have had a forgettable season this year, a number of promising young prospects are on the rise. If the team looks to continue its recent trend of getting younger, trading the 29-year-old Swede Nyquist may be in their best interest. The winger is currently on pace for a career year, set to shatter his previous high of 54 points set back in 2014/2015. Honourable Mentions: Mats Zuccarello (New York Rangers): Despite his small stature, the 5’8” Norwegian is always a lock for 50 points. Wayne Simmonds (Philadelphia Flyers): Gritty power forward, capable of scoring goals in a bottom-6 role. Michael Ferland (Carolina Hurricanes): Like Simmonds, he brings a combination of grit, scoring and playoff experience. Jimmy Howard (Detroit Red Wings): Veteran goaltender who has put up good numbers on an average team. Alex Edler (Vancouver Canucks): Arguably the team’s most consistent defenceman, great at both ends of the ice.
Athlete Spotlight: Daniel Wilkinson
Name: Daniel Wilkinson Hometown: Ladner, British Columbia Year: 3 Major: Business Sport: Backcountry Skiing
Business and having Fridays off. Whenever I get the opportunity I also go out with my buddies ski touring, which is similar to snow shoeing: walking up unmarked trails and finding cool remote places with fresh snow.
Mars’ Hill: How did you first hear about Trinity Western University? Daniel Wilkinson: I first heard about TWU during high school when some representatives came and shared about the Business school. I then visited during a preview night and was really compelled by the program and what some of the professors had to say about this university. That combined with the opportunity to continue with Track and Cross Country here sold me. MH: How did you first get involved with backcountry skiing? DW: I’ve been skiing since I was very young, beginning around three years old with my parents. I was never involved in skiing competitively, so I developed skills with my parents’ help and at times on my own. More recently, four or five years ago, I began going out with my dad locally in more rough terrain, which is where I’ve really acquired more skills. MH: How often do you go out skiing? DW: Almost every week! I bought a student pass for Whistler Blackcomb, so I’m there usually every Friday during the winter, which is one of the perks being in
MH: What do you like about backcountry skiing? DW: I think it’s just a great way to see local mountains from a different perspective, all while getting in some exercise and spending time outdoors with friends! MH: What are some highlights from your time backcountry skiing? DW: I did a trip recently with my dad, just last year when we went and explored an area nearby in Pemberton. It was a five day trip up to a place called Keith’s Hut, which was a really sweet remote ski hut that was free to use and located in the mountains around Pemberton. We spent four nights there, skiing and ski touring. It was such a unique experience, with no electricity, no water, and a wood burning stove. I’ll never forget the beautiful scenery there. MH: Have you been involved in any other sports aside from backcountry skiing? DW: I played a lot of soccer growing up and was heavily involved in that all the way up to high school. I also played volleyball, basketball and badminton growing up. I was also a member of the Spartans Cross Country and Track teams during my first two years at TWU.
“Maybe the real best place to find love was the friends we made along the way” —Abbi Seidle
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Q & A with Jordyn Field, Soccer Player/Manager Bailey Broadbent Mars’ Hill: What is your current role with the Spartans Div. 1 Soccer Team? Jordan Field: I am the current manager of the Spartans Div. 1 team, while I also play for the team. Basically, I make sure everyone shows up for games, that everything the team needs is there at the field, and the field is all ready to go. MH: What can you tell readers about the Spartans Div. 1 Team this year? JF: Our team plays in the Fraser Valley Soccer League and has a diverse range of players coming from varying degrees of background experience in soccer. The majority of our players are first-year Spartan athletes who play for us to get some reps in for their upcoming season. We also have a number of former Spartans, including myself, who have helped develop a mentorship culture over the younger players on our team this year. Rounding out our team are a number of student walk-ons who battled really hard to earn the final few spots on this team. MH: How does the Fraser Valley Soccer League compare to other leagues you and your teammates have played in before? JF: It’s definitely been a big jump up for some of our players, especially the younger guys who have played youth soccer their entire life and are just now experiencing playing against men on a daily basis. It’s a physical and mental battle, but we’re all pushing hard this year, and through it, playing really well. MH: How long have you been involved with soccer at Trinity Western University? JF: I’ve been playing soccer at Trinity Western University since my first
year where I played for the Spartans soccer team. I eventually quit in my third year to get married and focus a little more on school. MH: How has the season gone so far for the team? JF: Our team has had a really good season so far; we are currently in the midst of our best season since my first year, but that’s not to say there have not been some challenges to go along with that success. We started the year with three losses in a row, after that we had an eight game winning streak, and then last week that streak was snapped in a loss to first-place Delta. The most important thing is that we’ve been gelling as a team as the season has continued, and we have faced our challenges head on. MH: How is the team looking heading into the rest of the season? JF: I expect we’ll finish up the regular season on a winning note, as we have two games left. We’ve secured a playoff spot, and heading into playoff time we’ll have a very strong team to compete for this year’s Bradner Cup. Obviously, winning it all this year would be nice, but the most important thing is that we can learn and grow as a team like we have been doing throughout the year. MH: What have been some highs and lows this season? JF: A high for me has definitely been getting to know some of the first-year players on the team. I really enjoy getting out there and playing with motivated players, and all of our players work hard every day. It’s also been fun to play with some former Spartans I played with back in the day, so it’s been a great way to stay connected with them. In terms of a low, the closest thing I can think of would be losing to my older brother Justyn’s team both times we played them this season, but it’s good.
Spartans Recap
A look into how Spartans Athletic teams have been performing as of late
Bailey Broadbent Men’s Basketball: The men’s basketball team recently wrapped up their season after a pair of losses to rival UFV. Spartan Vartan Tanielian recently set the Spartans single-season record for 3-pointers with 76 this season— good for fifth in Canada West history! Women’s Basketball: Capping off the regular season with two straight wins and finishing with a 12-8 record, the women’s basketball team recently (beat/lost?) to UNBC in a single-game elimination at the Langley Events Centre. Men’s Hockey: The men’s hockey just wrapped up another bye week after splitting a pair of games versus Selkirk. They lead the BCIHL with a 14-4-0-1 record, and visit VIU and UVIC this weekend. Rookie defenceman
Travis Verveda was recently named ANYTHING BRANDED player of the week after a five-point weekend against Selkirk. Men’s Volleyball: The second-ranked men’s volleyball team is back home after a two-game road trip at MacEwan, and finish the regular sea son at the Langley Events Centre Friday (8 p.m.) and Saturday (7 p.m.) playing against Manitoba. Women’s Volleyball: The second-ranked women’s volleyball team is also back home after a two-game road trip against MacEwan. They too wrap up their regular season at home Friday (6 p.m.) and Saturday (5 p.m.) versus Manitoba.
Studs ' n Duds The latest hits and misses in the world of sports
Bailey Broadbent Studs: After making his Bundesliga debut at just 18 years old, Canadian soccer phenom Alphonso Davies was named to Bayern Munich’s roster for the upcoming Champions League. Auston Matthews recently signed a five-year $51.87 million extension with the Toronto Maple Leaves, making the American the second-highest paid NHL player in yearly average salary ($11.63 million). After a 10-game losing streak earlier this season, the Philadelphia Flyers are back in the playoff race after winning their eighth straight game. Talk about a turnaround.
Duds: Super Bowl LIII’s clash between the New England Patriots and Los Angeles Rams in Atlanta had the makings of an incredible game, the NFL’s second best offence (LA) versus the fifth best (NE). Fans, however, were instead treated to a defensive battle, as the Patriots won 13-3, the lowest scoring Super Bowl in league history. MLB superstars Manny Machado and Bryce Harper were both seeking contracts north of $300 million this off season, but with just over a week to go until Spring Training begins, both free agent players will likely have to accept a lot less money than anticipated.
“anywhere sicko mode is playing” —Nyssa Morgan
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humour
The TWUSA Candidate You Havenʼt Heard About Connor Thiessen
TWUSA Election season has arrived, which means that the campus walls are now absolutely covered in small, aesthetically-pleasing posters of friendly-looking students’ faces, some of which you encounter at least five times a day despite not having any classes with them, while others you have literally never seen before. It’s a stressful time for many, as Facebook feeds have become a passive-aggressive battlefield of campaign pages and unexpected friend requests; you are forced to think about your opinions on aspects of the school which you have up until now been completely unaware of. While most candidates are doing their utmost to garner support on campus, Mars’ Hill has unearthed a candidate that may be the ultimate underdog, as no one had any idea they were even running this year.
Nyssa Morgan
This virtually unknown individual is running under the name “Every POLS Major,” and due to their advertising game being quite lackluster, Mars’ Hill has been unable to learn much about their platform. We are able to confirm, however, that they possess the traits of every POLS student you’ve ever met: good-looking, outgoing, and ready to update their LinkedIn profiles. When contacted for an interview on what position they are running for, the individual knocked back an espresso shot and then offered a firm handshake. During the TWUSA Election season, it is important to stay informed, but if you’re having a hard time choosing between the POLS majors already in the running, know that you have this cover-all alternative.
Source of Fire Alarms Came From the Dungeon (Unsurprisingly) Emmett Hanly
The recent debacle about students’ microwaves and candles being confiscated has undeniably been a point of contention on campus for quite a while now. Many residents who want to enjoy a non-Sodexo meal or make their dorm feel a little bit more comfortable ended up having their comforts confiscated in the fire warden’s raid. However, students can now breathe easy, as the potential source of the rampant fire alarm crisis has been discovered.
“I have spent eons in this dungeon, existing in the extradimensional space in the ages before time itself, and having a pet Flame Golem has never been a problem before. Frankly, I don’t see why it’s suddenly such a big issue,” Xangothgoroth grumbled. “All I wanted to do was devour the occasional pizza pocket in the comfort of my own dungeon. Fire hazard? Please. I’ve seen sea monsters that were more of a fire hazard than my adorable little Volcanus.”
Xangothgoroth, the giant floating eyeball monster living in the dungeon beneath Fraser Hall, was harboring a creature birthed from pure flame under a pile of dirty socks in his cave. He was discovered by a small adventuring party of students who dared descend into the lair of the eldritch abomination, braving his traps and waves of deadly monsters. Xangothgoroth was trying to make popcorn over the Flame Golem when he was interrupted by the students, who consequently ensured he had his evocation privileges revoked.
However, despite this fact, the fire alarm has still gone off twice since Xangothgoroth’s elemental monstrosity was impounded. It’s up in the air whether or not it truly was Xangothgoroth’s fault, but it’s likely that there will need to be more of an investigation before the matter is resolved.
Nyssa Morgan
Mad Love Mad Libs Fill this Valentine out and slip it under your crush’s door
Dear ____(Valentineʼs name)___, I still remember the first time I laid my ____(plural body part)___ on you. It was during ___(your fa-
vourite professor)___’s class and you sat in the ___(noun)___ in front of me. Your ___(noun)___ was ___(verb ending in -ing)____, and I fell in love with your ____(colour)___ ____(facial fea-
ture)____. In that moment, I swear I heard angels singing ___(song title)___ in the background. Since that day, I admit I have had a(n) ___(adjective)___ ___(noun)____ on you. I want to be the one to give you a(n) ___(noun)___ by ___(season)___ and I am determined not to let any
___(plural noun)___ get in my way. If this all seems a bit too fast, we can meet for ___(noun)___ at ___(location on campus)___ and get to know each better. I will reveal my secret identity to you on ___(holiday)___ at ___(time of day)___sharp, behind ___(another location on campus)___. You will know it is me because I will be wearing a(n) ___(colour)___ ____(article of clothing)___ and I will be holding a(n) ___(adjective)___ ___(noun)____. I hope you will be my ___(noun)___. Love,
____(your pseudonym)____ “The altar” —Nat Ross
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“Ikea” —Amaris Henry
THE
HIMNAL Major: English Height: 6”4ʼ Hometown: Abbotsford, B.C.
Carter Sawatzky
Favourite woman in the Bible? Noahʼs wife. Any woman who can handle that many animals can handle me.
How do you know if itʼs love? We have to be Enneagram compatible. Iʼm looking at you 1s, 4s, 6s, and 7s!!
Idea of a perfect date? Long walks in the library. Hopefully we can hit up the Christian section.
Denomination? Charismatic-Mennonite. I can dance and be frugal with my coins. ;)
What skill will you pass on to your future children? A nice hairline.
What type of animal represents you? The black stallion, because theyʼre dressed in black from head to hoof.
“A cat shelter” —Kenzie Morgan
What theme do you envision for the wedding? A wedding based on The Bachelorette. Whoʼs gonna get the ring?! My grandma will be on the edge of her seat!! Top quality in a future mate? A solid finsta. What is your love language? German. Whisper sweet nothings to me in low German and you have mein Herz. ich liebe dich <3
Year:1st Age:19
What is your go-to party trick? Reciting the longest starbucks order I can muster up.
Favourite snack? I protecc. I attacc. I am the snacc. What do you put in your coffee? My thoughts, dreams, and fears.