Mary Ward Planet Issue 2 2017-2018

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MARY WARD PLANET

volume 23 || issue 2 || spring edition 2018

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I n v i g o r 8 | S e m i - Fo r m a l | WA D

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editorial

TABLE OF CONTENTS EDITORIAL

LA PETITE PLANET

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03

carnaval de quebec le choc culturel entre le canada et la france

WORLD ISSUES

04 WACT

The End of NAFTA Oprah’s Golden Globe Speech Ontario’s Top Job NDP Singh Victory Time’s Up #MeToo Nightmares for the Dreamer

18 Black Mirror Why Movie Musicals Are On The Rise I, Tonya Movie Review Getting Wasted White Washing In The Media The Best Apps of 2017 -2018 Canadian Sitcoms On The Rise

LIFE

07 DIY Lunch Ideas Forbidden Fruit March Break Ideas Is OHIP+ Really a “Plus”?

CREATIVE SPACES

COMMUNITY

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Flipping the Narrative (Poem) Digital Artwork Visual Artwork Blackout Poems Almost (Poem) Photography

Community Wrap Up Agenda Checking Becoming More Inclusive and Welcoming Demonstrating Excellence, Celebrating Achievement Winter Activity Day The Enchanted Forest: Semi-Formal

SPORTS

FUN & GAMES

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Sports Wrap Up TFC Championship Win The Future of the Olympics NHL Players Out of The Olympics 30k LeBron James

Crossword Puzzle Adventure Time: Spot the Difference

LAYOUT DESIGNERS Yuki Tam, Naomi Fernandes, Sabrina Percy, Jamie Edghill, Anjuli Joachim. Naomi Joson, Diana Guades, Shandel Jarabejo, Nimmy Ayekun, Madeleine MacIsaac -Sun Yuki Tam

COVER DESIGN

Yuki Tam Nimmy Ayekun

COLOUR PAGE DESIGNS

All content © 2016-2017 Mary Ward Catholic Secondary School. All rights reserved. Reproduction of this newspaper, in part of whole, is prohibited without the approval of the Planet executive members. The Mary Ward Planet is the o cial student newspaper of Mary Ward C.S.S. All members of the Mary Ward community may voluntarily contribute to the Planet. Everyone exhibits professionalism and respects one another in all exchanges while keeping Christian values and practices. All submitted articles, layouts, and photography are subject to moderation. Material submitted is subject to approval by the Executive, sta moderators, and administration. All material must positively support the ideas and spirit of Mary Ward Catholic Secondary School. Mary Ward Catholic Secondary School is a self-

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directed learning centre located at 3200 Kennedy Road that was founded in 1985. It became a member of the CCSDL (Canadian Coalition of Self-Directed Learning) in 1995.

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i n v i g o r8 WARD STUDENTS ARE WORKING HARD TO FINISH UNITS AND ASSIGNMENTS (JAMIE EDGHILL)

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this editorial are that of the Planet Executives do not reflect the views of the staff and administration of Mary Ward.

Invigor8: two weeks unlike anything the Mary Ward community has seen before. As it was introduced to students, Invigor8 would be two weeks of engaging learning with no homework. The days were promised to be scheduled days without a mundane structure.

Best of all, if a student attended every class and participated as necessary, they would receive a unit for each of their courses. The concept was created in response to last year’s town halls, in which many students said they felt like they were not seeing their teachers enough. All of this was easier said than done. Although the intentions behind Invigor8 were good and respectable, its execution was flawed.

Some would say that everything went off without a hitch. Several teachers prepared successful and engaging lesson plans, creating a fun educational experience for all. Many students earned a unit complete, after attending their two-week Invigor8 classes. Those who were behind would be able to touch base with their teachers and formulate a plan to finish courses.

All students had one reason or another to appreciate Invigor8. The scheduled days would force them to take a break from an otherwise fast-paced year. Plus, the minimal homework meant that students could utilize time after school to its full extent. This would give everyone a chance to catch up if they used their time wisely. The second Monday of Invigor8 was designated as an unscheduled

day to allow students to hand in units they had worked on at home during the week prior to invigor8 and write tests.

Unfortunately, Invigor8 proved to be a more trying experience than was anticipated. Group-based comprehensive projects were introduced for courses, including presentations. Despite the general claim that Invigor8 would not include a lot of homework, many courses did the opposite.

The first class would often be an introduction to the Invigor8 assignment, and the next couple of classes would be work periods and the last class would often be reserved for presentations. This, joined with the issue of some teachers or departments being too ambitious, and in certain cases, not ambitious enough in their planning, left students with minimal class time to complete adequate work. Other students did not find that the Invigor8 activities fulfilled any requirements needed for learning the concepts within the units. The amount of homework proved to be overwhelming for some students, who did not have enough time to catch up. This was especially true for students in sunset courses who were not able to get a unit during Invigor8 the same way as everyone else. Unlike other students, students in sunset courses couldn’t complete a unit if it was being done entirely in class or if the assignment was a group based project. If students were able to figure out alternative solutions with their teachers, it usually required them to work on the unit after Invigor8 days were over; this very much contradicted the promise that during the 2 weeks all the students would be guaranteed a unit in all of their courses.

Furthermore many students felt that for some courses, Invigor8 did not involve as many fun or engaging activities as they would have hoped, but rather common notebook work that did not require scheduled classes. Not to mention that with so much emphasis on completing a unit during Invigor8, not all students got the opportunity to touch base, one on one, with every teacher. This was largely due to the fact that the structure of Invigor8 forced students to optimize the little class time that they had. While Invigor8 gave plenty of time for peer interaction, it didn’t really give them much time to consult with their teachers.

That being said Invigor8 did give students the opportunity to get to know their classmates better and learn collaboratively. For grade 12s in particular, Invigor8 was a tricky situation. It shortened the time frame to hand in units in time for university deadlines and report cards. This situation was quickly rectified as administration extended the report card dates.

However, because students were not informed of the extension until Invigor8 was over, it created a lot of stress during the two weeks. It is important to note that students in different grades also had different experiences. For instance a lot of grade 9s and 10s, felt that there was too much to do in too little time since they have to take 8 courses.

Not to mention that even though Invigor8 took place over a 2 week period, realistically there was only 4 class times for each course, little of which was devoted as workperiods. So it is easy to understand why some students may have felt extremely overwhelmed.

Overall there were a few consistent ideas surrounding the execution

of Invigor8, most students were unsatisfied with Invigor8 because it really didn’t do much to help them catch up in their courses.

Alex Smith, a grade 9 student said, “Invigor8 was good in some ways and bad in others. Good in making sure you saw your teacher but, it held you back from handing in units.” Not being able to hand in units during the two weeks, other than the one unscheduled day, seemed to be the most common issue that people had with Invigor8.

If this initiative is to continue next year or in future years there are several things which can be taken into consideration for both teachers and students concerning Invigor8. For one, there could be a set standard for all departments which is more strictly enforced.

Teachers need to consider a more realistic outlook on the work given in the time frame of Invigor8.

Students must plan around Invigor8 and spend class time during the scheduled days wisely.

All in all, the actual execution of Invigor8 involved group projects, homework, and scheduled classes.

This transformed Mary Ward into something eerily similar to a regular school for two weeks. Although the two weeks may have been necessary to increase teacherstudent interaction, it is important not to lose sight of Mary Ward’s unique vision. Self-directed learning lies at the core of this school and so the solutions we find, must prioritize and exhibit this value.

Agree or Disagree?

Send a letter to the editors at: mwplanet@gmail.com We would love to know what you think.

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Oprah’s Golden Globe Speech Oprah Winfrey’s powerful speech at this year’s Golden Globes

By DonQarlo Bernadino At the 75th annual Golden Globes, media proprietor, talk show host, actress, and the world’s richest African-American, Oprah Winfrey won the Cecil B. DeMille award.

The award is given to those who have made outstanding contributions to the world of entertainment. As many of us already know, Oprah the host of one of the highest rated television talk show programs in history - The Oprah Winfrey Show, which aired for 25 years.

Her intimate way of interviewing and speech delivery have always been influential over the years. Oprah has provided social justice awareness surrounding people of different races, such as being a major influence in

OPRAH AT THE GOLDEN GLOBES IMAGE: STEVE GRANITZ/ GETTY IMAGES

Obama’s presidential election. She was able to bring awareness and acceptance of LGBTQ people into the mainstream through her talk show and reinvent the television format by putting focus on books and self-improvement. Oprah’s work in social justice came together in one of her most timely speeches to date during the Golden Globes.

In 2017 there were a lot of major scandals regarding sexual assault allegations against many men in Hollywood. Through these allegations and scandals came the rise of the ‘Time’s Up’ movement. The powerful movement sparked a wide discussion regarding sexual assault of not just women in the industry, but women in general. It lead to a campaign at the Golden Globes when all the women wore all black. Notable female celebrities fighting for this movement include Reese Witherspoon (Legally Blonde, Big little lies), Natalie Portman (Black Swan, Thor), and Oprah Winfrey.

Her speech wasn’t just a blatant political message to get people to side with her, although that was one of the powerful messages discussed. There was a story to it, a poetic speech that was carefully constructed and had a beautiful structure to it.

Oprah starts out with a story of her as a little girl, watching the TV as actor Sidney Poitier, wins the award for best actor at the Academy Awards. This was an important moment for Oprah because he was the very first black actor to ever win the best actor Oscar.

She used this as a thesis for her speech.

She discusses how it influenced her and how in awe she was seeing a black man celebrated like that and how honoured she was that she became the first black woman to receive the same award.

She followed this up by looking back at all the people that helped her through her journey and helped her become

the person she is today. This makes the audience feel a sense of nostalgia and hope. Nostalgia for how far Oprah has come and how there were people who supported her. Hope for seeing a woman being celebrated in a time when women are being victimised.

Showing us that a woman’s journey will always be recognized no matter the social injustice.

She then thanks the press, something most celebrities don’t do and mostly for good reason. However Oprah is able to give credit where it’s due, another trait of hers that makes her unique. She admires them for their bravery in exposing nasty secrets within Hollywood. This leads her to speak about her lesson, one of the major points in her speech, which was how powerful speaking your truth is.

The message was not shoved down your throat one bit. She was able to transcend it and empower women by telling them that they are part of an industry that tells stories, and how the story is now on them.

Her second message shines a spotlight on not just women who have been assaulted in the industry, but regular women we see in everyday life.

She talks about women who work in factories, women who work in restaurants and women in big or small roles in industries such as the medical field, science, and technology. This was another incredibly important moment in her speech because it is not everyday we hear people of her status root for

the everyday person.

The next great message comes from Oprah’s incredible technique of connecting a historical event to the present day. She spreads awareness of a woman being assaulted way back in the forties. Oprah is sharing with us how long these injustices have been going on. Commenting on how so many injustices happen to so many people around the world and how most are still unknown. What Oprah does best is shine a light on this and empowers us through her words by giving us hope. She speaks to every audience she is facing, those who are in the room with her and those who are watching at home. She gives a clear message on how we all can have the power to speak our truth.

Her last but not least powerful message was when she talks about how men and women relate to each other. During this she discusses what she was always trying to do with her work and career. To interview people about their darkest moments during her show. She presents that no matter what race, religion, workplace we are in, Oprah reminds us that we all go through experiences that make us feel.

That make us who we are. The last few lines of the speech Oprah comes in at full force. She sends a message to all the girls and women watching to never give up hope so that they can never say #metoo again.

ThE End of nAftA Where NAFTA’s collapse will leave us

By Diana Guades The North American Free Trade Agreement is intended to provide strong economic growth and prosperity to Mexico, the United States and Canada. However, President Trump is opting for an “America First” mindset, which does not include the U.S.A.’s participation in NAFTA. Since his election, the President and Prime Minister Trudeau have been engaging in multiple rounds of discussions. While the future of NAFTA remains uncertain, the consequences of America’s withdrawal is evident.

NAFTA was established on January 1st VOLUME 23 / ISSUE 2 mwplanet 04

1994, to aid trade between Mexico, USA and Canada. By removing almost all the tariffs (taxes on imported goods) involved between the three nations, trade became more accessible and affordable. According to Investopedia. com, NAFTA was not detrimental nor widely transformational to Canada’s economy. Trade with Mexico appeared to be minimal and in one instance, 652 jobs were lost in Ontario and relocated to Mexico. Canada did experience a 243% increase in FDI (Foreign direct investment) from the U.S., which means that American owned business created new jobs in Canada and contributed to our economy. Adding to the benefits, Chhad Aul, VicePresident of Portfolio Management at

Sun Life Global Investments, believes that “Since NAFTA has removed some of the barriers to trade, the overall volume of trade we are doing with the U.S. and Mexico has greatly improved and in turn improved our economy.”

The U.S is Canada’s largest trading partner and in 2016, Canada-U.S. trade was worth $752 billion. Thanks to NAFTA, Canadians enjoy a growing job market, an increase in FDI, economic developments and a wider selection of goods.

Trump made his dislike for NAFTA clear during his presidential campaign and continues to do so as president. He has stated that he believes “NAFTA is the worst trade deal maybe ever signed anywhere, but certainly ever signed in

this country (U.S.A.).” The 2016 federal elections serve as a reminder that many people seem to agree with Trump, but the best interests of Canadians do not agree with the President. If the United States were to withdraw from NAFTA, experts predict a decrease in value for the Canadian dollar and the restoration of international tariffs. When the value of the Canadian dollar decreases, we pay more for things like gas and travelling abroad. If the tariffs are put into place once again, imports from America and Mexico will become more expensive in order to compensate. From a decrease in FDI to more expensive Mexican avocados, all evidence indicates that the collapse of NAFTA would have negative repercussions for Canadians.

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ONTARIO’S TOP JOB Possibilties for the upcoming election

By Nimmy Ayekun The next Ontario general election is set to occur on June 7th, 2018. The three main political parties vying for Ontario’s Government are The Liberal Party (The Liberals), The Progressive Conservative Party (The PCs), and The New Democratic Party (The NDP). Each party leader has their own solution to the problems Ontarians face, and they each present themselves and their party as one that can do good for Ontario, but is this truly the case?

The Liberals currently hold a majority government in Ontario, with their leader Kathleen Wynne as the Premier of Ontario. Her and her government have recently made several decisions that have demonstrated their wish to see a better life for all persons living in Ontario. The most recent of these policies is an increase of the minimum wage paid to workers in Ontario, starting with an increase to $14/hour as of January 1, 2018, and moving up to $15/hour as of January 1, 2019.

Many small businesses claim that this is a change that may force them to take drastic measures in order to stay open as it is already extremely difficult to keep a small business operational in the first place. Another big decision

that gathered large controversy is the change to the sexual education curriculum made in 2015, as some parents thought that their children were going to be taught sexual topics that were too mature for their age.

Others have said that the changes were necessary because the old curriculum promoted abstinence leaving teenagers unprepared for the time they chose to have sexual intercourse.

Premier Wynne has also been heavily scrutinised for the rising price for hydroelectricity. It was not until 2017 that the Ontario government led by Wynne announced a plan to help offset the costs of hydro, a move the former PC leader Patrick Brown has called for since 2015, when he became leader of the PC party.

Patrick Brown, the former leader of the PC party, stepped down earlier this year after being accused of sexual misconduct by a former colleague.

This leaves the PC party without an official leader. As of now Vic Fedeli is currently interim leader, while the party works on finding a candidate to replace Brown. The four candidates currently being considered for leadership (as of February 9, 2018) are: Doug Ford, brother of former mayor, the late Rob Ford, Christine Elliott, the former Patient Ombudsman

of Ontario (a person who receives and addresses complaints about the Ontario healthcare system), Caroline Mulroney, daughter of former Prime Minister Brian Mulroney, and Tanya Granic Allen, the president of Parents as First Educators, an organisation against the aforementioned changes to the sexual education curriculum.

VOTERS HAVE A TOUGH CHOICE TO MAKE. PICTURED (FROM LEFT TO RIGHT) KATHLEEN WYNNE, LIBERAL PARTY; PATRICK BROWN, FORMER LEADER OF PROGRESSIVE CONSERVATIVE PARTY; AND ANDREA HORWATH, NDP PARTY. PHOTO VIA TVO.ORG.

The PCs have yet to establish their position on large issues in Ontario, as they are currently electing a new leader. As the new leader established themselves in the provincial political landscape, it will become clear how they plan to tackle important issues.

As of February 26, 2018, Patrick Brown entered the race to fill the position he once held, increasing the total number of candidates to five.

However, he subsequently dropped out of the running after only a few days.

The NDP party has been led by Andrea Horwath since 2009, who has been lobbying for the rights of workers since she earned her degree in labour studies at McMaster University. She has also undertaken anti-racism training and has worked with the Hamilton labour movement advocating for additional literacy, numeracy, and ESL training for workers. Her campaign in 2014 centred around the idea of ensuring that the privileged- in this case, the upper class- does not become the centre of society, and that the middle and lower class have a voice. However, critics describe her campaign as “populist”, and being too far-fetched to be viable for a successful Premiership.

However, she has an extremely high approval rate amongst party supporters, and demonstrates excellent critical thinking and advocacy skills.

This year’s provincial election looks to be one of the most consequential in Ontario’s history. It is still quite unclear whether or not Kathleen Wynne will be able to maintain her position as Premier. However it is likely that there is going to be a very long and brutal campaign ahead of us which will be filled with debates, interviews, lawn signs and polls, and lead to a very exciting climax on June 7th.

NDP Singh Victory The election of Jagmeet Singh

By Naomi Joson

Science in Biology and later went on to the Osgoode Hall Law School.

While working as a criminal defense lawyer in Brampton, Singh began to tap more into politics. He stated in an interview with the Toronto Star, “Criminal defence is a bit more liberal, more left wing because of the…social justice aspect of it. We’re advocates of the Charter (of Rights and Freedoms).”

Thereafter, he partook in volunteer legal work including working for social justice groups and assisting with rights claims of immigrants and refugees.

October 1st 2017, 39 year-old lawyer and politician Jagmeet Singh became the first Sikh and non-white Federal leader of a major political party in Canada.

After winning 53 percent of the party’s votes- beating MPs Charlie Angus, Niki Ashton and Guy Caron- Singh won the leadership for the National Democratic Party, replacing former leader Andrea Horwath. Singh’s victory has marked a major step towards increasing diversity and inclusivity within Canadian politics. In May of 2011, Singh ran in the federal election for the NDPs in the riding of Singh was born in 1979 in Bramalea-Gore-Malton, but lost to Scarborough, Ontario. He attended Conservative Bal Gosal by 539 votes. He, Western University for a Bachelor of however, did not give up and decided

to run again in the same riding for the provincial election; he won and became an MPP for two terms. In 2015, under Andrea Horwath’s leadership, Singh became the deputy leader of the NDPs. Singh’s campaign for NDP leadership was launched on May 15th, 2017 with the slogan “With Love and Courage”.

This put to the test on September 6th during a rally in Brampton, when Singh was confronted by a heckler who is a supporter of an anti-Islamic fringe group. Singh remained calm during the confrontation and maintained positivity within the environment by saying words like, “We welcome you. We love you. We support you...we believe in your rights...love and courage.”

Coming from an immigrant Sikh family and experiencing discrimination firsthand, Singh advocates for various issues, some in which hit close to home, including ending the practice of carding. He stated, “It makes you feel like you don’t belong, like there’s something wrong with you for just being you. And that’s why, as prime minister, I will make sure that no one in Canada is stopped by police because of they way they look, or the colour of their skin.” Singh also plans on tackling issues including housing affordability, climate change, the pay equity gap, reconciliation and electoral reform, and decriminalizing illegal drugs.

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Time’s Up #MeToo All about the #MeToo Movement

By Naomi Joson

The hashtag “#MeToo” began heavily circulating social media in late 2017 as more and more women started to share their experiences of sexual violence. The movement was created in the hopes of not only spreading awareness about the prevalence of sexual harassment but to also help survivors. Since then, numerous men in Hollywood and politics have been accused of sexual violence and harassment.

The catch phrase “Me Too” was first used in 1997 by Tarana Burke, a survivor of sexual assault. She established a non-profit in order to help women and girls of colour who were a victim of sexual violence. More than a decade later, “me too” resparked, gaining more public attention than ever. It began after an article in The New York Times was published detailing the decades of experiences of sexual harassment

by Hollywood film producer Harvey Weinstein. Among the women who have shared their experiences are actresses Ashley Judd and Rose McGowan. On October 10th, an article published in the New Yorker shared sexual violence allegations of 13 more women against Weinstein. On October 12th, after television producer Isa Hackett accused Roy Price of sexual harassment, Price resigned from head of Amazon Studios. Since then, over 30 women have come forward with allegations of sexual violence against the Hollywood producer.

On October 15th actress Alyssa Milano shared a tweet stating: “If all the women and men who have been sexually harassed, assaulted or abused wrote ‘me too’ as a status, we might give people a sense of the magnitude of the problem. #metoo.” Nearly 40 000 people - not only women - replied to the tweet the morning after it was shared and the hashtag began trending on twitter. It also spread onto other social media platforms, including Instagram and Facebook.

The movement has also shed light on the sexual violence that occurs amongst athletes. On October 18th, McKayla Maroney, an Olympic gymnast, took to twitter to share her story of being sexually assaulted by former team VOLUME 23/ ISSUE 2 mwplanet 06

doctor Lawrence G. Nassar. Maroney is only one of more than 140 women and girls who have accused Nassar of abuse.

As women and even men have become empowered to come forward with their experiences, a plethora of other public figures have since been confronted about their history of sexual violence and misconduct; this includes actor Kevin Spacey, Republican politician Roy Moore, actor Louis C.K, ex-co host of The Today Show Matt Lauer, former radio personality Garrison Keillor, and entrepreneur Russell Simmons. As of recently, filmmaker Woody Allen has faced major scrutiny after his adoptive daughter Dylan Farrow wrote an op-ed for the Los Angeles Times titled “Why has the #MeToo revolution spared Woody Allen?”

life

NIGHTMARES FOR THE DREAMERS Everything you need to know about DACA

By Nimmy Ayekun

In September 2017, Trump and his administration put the lives of thousands of people at risk. He set in motion a series of congressional battles by agreeing to rescind DACA. This was after 10 republican state attorney’s wrote to the White House threatening to pursue legal action

AMERICANS DEFENDING DACA. PHOTO VIA ABC NEWS.

if Trump did not make good on this campaign promise.

PEOPLE AT THE ME TOO SURVIVOR’S MARCH (MARK RALSTON/GETTY IMAGES)

Before the new year, Time Magazine named the “Silence Breakers” as their 2017 Person of the Year. The “Silence Breakers” refer to the people who have come forward and taken action against powerful men who have been accused of sexual violence. Featured on the cover are actress Ashley Judd, former Uber engineer Susan Fowler, Taylor Swift, and an unidentifiable woman.

The new year of 2018 brought a giant step forward for the movement as more than 300 Hollywood women including, executives, actors, agents, writers, directors, and producers formed Times Up, an anti-sexual harassment coalition. It also recently took over the 2018 Golden Globes as celebrities wore entirely black outfits on the red carpet in support of the movement. As of now Time’s Up has raised more than $20 million which will be used to provide legal help for men and women who have been a victim of sexual violence. Suffice it to say, with the #metoo movement a much needed social change is being made.

The DACA Act, also known as the Deferred Action For ChildHood Arrivals, was a policy put into place by the Obama administration in 2012.

It allowed individuals in the United States who had either entered or remained in the country illegally as children, to receive a renewable two year period of deferred action from deportation and be eligible for a work permit. To be protected by DACA, applicants must have entered the states before their 16th birthday, have continuously lived in the US since June 5th 2007, been physically present in the country on June 15th 2012, have a clean criminal record and either have completed high school, been honorably discharged from the Armed Forces or currently enrolled in school.

A MOTHER AND DAUGHTER REST IN FRONT OF A PROTEST SIGN. (EUGENE GARCIA)

When Trump’s administration rescinded the act in September

2017, immigration services stopped new DACA applications from being received and only accepted renewal applications for another month.

Fortunately, however, a Supreme Court ruling in January blocked Trump’s executive order to do this and allowed Immigration Services to continue to accept applications. Nevertheless under Trump’s new immigration plan there is no guarantee that their protections will be able to be renewed again if Congress come up with a “ DACA fix”. As of now over 670,000 people in the United States are DACA recipients.

Without DACA these individuals will not only face deportation, but will no longer be able to go to college, work or even drive in the States.

For the last six months Democrats have been fighting hard to reach bipartisan agreement with Republican members of Congress; drafting a piece of legislation that will appease the Republican majority, Donald Trump and create permanent protections for DACA recipients. This has not been an easy task. The inability for Republicans

PROTESTERS OUTSIDE THE WHITE HOUSE. PHOTO VIA CNN.

and Democrats to reach an agreement regarding the DACA situation resulted in a government shutdown in January.

Right now, both Democrats and Republicans are working on a two pillar solution that will help DACA recipients and increase homeland security. However, Trump is only really willing to support a 4 pillar solution which will also cut family migration, end the diversity lottery, and increase homeland security by providing funds for his wall. That being said, there is still hope. In the next few weeks, an immigration debate is scheduled to happen on the Senate floor that could potentially help move things in a positive direction.

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DIY Lunch Ideas For when you’re broke and hungry

By Naomi Fernandes School lunches can be a serious, struggle especially when you’re trying to eat healthy or meet dietary restrictions. Lunch is an important meal, and by the middle of third period it’s not unusual to hear people talking about how hungry they are. With cafeteria prices on the rise, it can be hard to save money and still manage to stay full throughout the day. Here are some versatile lunch ideas which can be adjusted for almost anyone.

BRINGING LUNCHES FROM HOME IS A GREAT ALTERNATIVE TO CAFETERIA FOOD. (KATHRIEL RIVERA)

Power Bowls Power Bowls are a big trend and for a good reason, power bowls are filled with different types of grains, proteins, and vegetables. The great thing about power bowls is that they can be customized to anyone’s taste.

One example of a quick bowl is a burrito bowl, it’s as simple as making some rice and adding in your favourite vegetables and then seasoned ground beef or black beans as a vegetarian option. A quick Google search can also provide you with endless ideas and recipes. An added plus is the fact that you can prepare these and freeze them when you’re busy.

Wraps Possibly one of the fastest thing to make, a wrap is a huge time saver. This is a good alternative to a sandwich especially since eating the same thing everyday can be a bit tiring.

You could put virtually any food in a wrap making it a great way to use up leftovers. A kebab in a pita with some fresh vegetables is a filling and healthy lunch which doesn’t take much time at all. Next time you have to make lunch in rush grab a tortilla or pita instead of the usual loaf of bread.

Salads Now I know how most people feel about a salad, but, hear me out. Salads are great idea when you don’t need a heavy lunch or even if you just want something fresh. It’s not just rabbit food! Try salads with legumes and grains like quinoa or chickpeas which are easy to cook and pretty filling. Get creative with dressings too, don’t just stick with ranch or caesar, there’s so many different types and a dressing isn’t difficult to make either.

Pasta A good pasta isn’t difficult, with so many different varieties of noodles (around 350) and sauces it’s possible to have a different type of pasta almost everyday. It doesn’t have to be tomato sauce and meatballs all the time, try a cream sauce or a pesto, or even create your own. Plus this a great way to get rid of any produce that’s just lying around in your fridge.

Stews/Soups This is great idea when you have more time on your hands or if you have a slow cooker, you could leave it for some hours by itself. Soups can be great for a light lunch and stews are a more hearty alternative. If you find a simple broth or soup to be plain on its own, consider adding in some noodles or protein (like chicken or tofu). A stew can be a little bit time consuming to make, but if you

RE-SEALABLE CONTAINERS ARE VERY USEFUL FOR BRINGING HOMEMADE LUNCHES TO SCHOOL. PHOTO VIA PAPSTAR PRODUCTSA.

make a large quantity it can be frozen and kept for a number of days.

Hopefully this list of ideas left you with just a little bit more hope for your school lunch. Don’t forget to pack some snacks and water for throughout the day as well. Fruits, nuts, and fresh vegetables make for easy and healthy snacks. On the days when you really can’t be bothered to be healthy or make something, there’s always leftovers, or maybe even a freezer meal. It would be a great idea to say visit our website for some recipes!

life

Forbidden fruit They’re not for eating, but for cleaning

By Shandel Jarabejo Over the past few years, challenge videos of people on the internet have become a big trend. It started with the “Cinnamon Challenge” and later the “Mannequin Challenge”. Since late December 2017, people on social media have been creating videos of themselves chewing Tide Pods. This trend soon became known as the “Tide Pod Challenge”.

A WARNING DISPLAYED ON TIDE PODS WARNS PARENTS TO STORE IT AWAY FROM CHILREN PHOTO VIA AP

The “Tide Pod Challenge” first started when Tide introduced laundry pacs in 2012. Following its release, many cases of toddlers consuming Tide Pods were reported. Three years later, the Onion (a satirical news site) posted an article from the point of view of a toddler who wanted to eat a laundry pod due to its bright and attractive colours.

Eventually, in 2017, CollegeHumor uploaded a video titled, “Don’t Eat the Laundry Pods. (Seriously. They’re Poison).” The popular video depicted a college student wanting to chew on a laundry pod because it resembled a fruit flavored candy. Inevitably, the story ended with the student on a stretcher being treated by paramedics.

Months later, teens and young adults began posting videos of them biting on detergent pods and the liquid gushing from their mouths. Memes and tweets have popularized this trend, which became known as the “Tide Pod Challenge”.

This challenge is extremely dangerous and toxic to everyone - not just babies and toddlers. Laundry pods and detergents contain highly toxic ingredients like ethanol, bleach, ethoxylated alcohols and surfactants.

Consuming laundry pods can result in serious illnesses, complications and in some cases, death. By biting down on the pod, the pressure is increased leading to the detergent possibly going into your lungs, stomach, eyes, or trachea. Common cases result in

vomiting, abdominal pain, flatulence, diarrhea, breathing difficulties, nausea, coughing, choking, irritations and burns. Ingesting detergent can also cause damage to the lining of the stomach and the esophagus. In some cases, soap poisoning occurs, which impacts blood pressure and heart rate.

Thirty-nine cases of intentional exposure of laundry pods have been reported by the American Association of Poison Control Centers in the first fifteen days of 2018. In response to this, Tide’s parent company, Procter & Gamble has made efforts to deal with this dangerous trend. Tide created a video with the New England Patriots’ Rob Gronkowski, addressing that Tide Pods are meant to be used for laundry and not for consumption. In addition to this video, Tide has been replying to users who claim to have eaten a laundry pod on Twitter. Tide is urging those users to drink a glass of milk or water and call the Poison Control Hotline. Social media platforms such as YouTube and Facebook have also partnered with Tide to ban and remove any content relating to the “Tide Pod Challenge”.

INGESTING TIDE PODS RESULTS IN A VARIETY OF HEALTH PROBLEMS PHOTO VIA THE SUN.

The “Tide Pod Challenge” is a challenge you should never try. It causes many health problems and sets a bad example for younger children. Will more incidents of intentional exposure to laundry pods occur? Should more efforts be made to stop the youth from doing this challenge? Either way, remember Tide Pods are meant to be put in the laundry and not in your mouth!

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life

March Break Ideas

life life

Ways to make the most of your precious seven days from reality

community

Is OHIP + Really a “Plus”?

An in-depth look into Ontario’s new health care program

THERE ARE MANY THINGS TO DO DOWNTOWN TORONTO FOR THE MARCH BREAK. (ALLAN BAXTER)

By Naomi Fernandes

your fingertips. Try learning some new recipes or baking or even try writing or The thought of March maybe a new art technique.

Break brings up many different feelings for Units everyone. For some it is While this sounds sad and uninspiring, a time to finally get a break from school trust me a little bit or work done in the and for others it is only an obstacle March break will make your future self preventing you from handing in the thankful. Finish some assignments you next unit. Regardless, a full week off of have been procrastinating, or maybe school can leave you wondering what just start on the chemistry notes you’ve to do for fun. Here are some suggestions been putting off. Don’t overwork which will hopefully give you a better yourself though, it’s important to take idea of what’s out there. a break from school and work and just have some time to yourself.

Take a Day Trip!

March weather isn’t ideal for a day at Explore the beach or an outdoor pool but that Toronto is a big place with a pretty doesn’t mean that the outdoors aren’t accessible subway system, take a good place to be. Try visiting a local advantage of that! Go somewhere park or if you have a driver’s license try completely new and explore, it doesn’t visiting a provincial park. It might be matter if it’s by yourself or with friends a bit cold, but there is definitely fun in and family, just try something out. going to a new place and trying out Exploring doesn’t need to be expensive new things like skating or on a trail. either, maybe just take a walk in a new neighbourhood or go to cafe, find Start a New TV/Book Series! a new place for lunch, expand your This is a great time to start tackling parameters. Just maybe have google that huge list of shows to watch. A maps handy to avoid getting too lost. full week a great time to binge watch a new show or maybe catch up on Volunteer something you’re currently watching. This is a wonderful time to finish up Some recommendations are Black those volunteer hours you’ve been Mirror, Sense8, Prison Break, or maybe putting off for the last three years or something foreign like SKAM. March get a head start on the next three years. break is also a good time to tackle the There are many different places you list of books to read, some popular ones can go, if it’s at a March break camp or right now are: The Hate U Give by Angie at a soup kitchen, there are ways for Thomas or Turtles All the Way Down by everyone to help in the community.

John Green.

With this list, hopefully you have a more Learn Something New optimistic outlook on the March break.

If you’ve been dying to figure out how Remember that this list is just the tip of exactly to paint a certain way or maybe the iceberg, try something fun and new. how to master a computer program, this Don’t waste away on the couch for a is the perfect time to get started. There week complaining about not going out! are so many great resources out there, especially with the world wide web at VOLUME 23 / ISSUE 2 mwplanet 08

OHIP+ PROVIDES MORE THAN 1.2 MILLION ONTARIONS WITH COVERAGE FOR MEDICATIONS WITHOUT PRIVATE INSURANCE, BUT COMES WITH SOME COMPLICATIONS. PHOTO VIA ALAMAY

By Shandel Jarabejo On January 1st, OHIP+ came into effect.

This new program provides millions of young Ontarians between the ages of 0 to 24 with free prescription drugs. OHIP+ covers 4,400 types of drugs found under the Ontario Drug Benefit program. These drugs include antibiotics to treat infections, inhalers, diabetic medications, Epipens, medications to treat arthritis, epilepsy and other chronic conditions as well as ADHD drugs, drugs to treat some childhood cancers and other rare conditions. There is no need to sign up, since all who are covered by OHIP automatically qualify for OHIP+. The Ontario government claims that OHIP+ is as simple as presenting your OHIP card and a valid prescription to your local pharmacy, but how beneficial and simple is it actually for Ontarians?

Ever since it was put into effect, the OHIP+ has become the primary payer for eligible drug products.

Meaning, less coverage is needed from private insurance companies because OHIP+ fully covers the cost of the drug if both the patient and drug are eligible.

Thanks to OHIP+, over 1.2 millions Ontarians without private insurance, now have coverage for medications and 2.1 million Ontarians who rely on private insurance have now been transferred to be covered under public insurance.

Overall, this new program has allowed more people to fill prescriptions easily and use less coverage from private insurance companies.

Although this new program seems to be beneficial for all eligible Ontario parents and their kids, it isn’t for some. For some parents, OHIP+ has made it difficult to fill their children’s prescription. Due to the fact that only about 4,400 drugs are covered and that OHIP+ is now the first payer for prescription drugs, if parents want to cover other drugs they have to submit a request for Ontario’s Exceptional Access Program. By doing so, parents can request coverage for prescription drugs not covered by OHIP+ through their child’s pediatrician or doctor. The EAP requires parents to try to supplement their child’s medication for drugs that are covered by OHIP+ before requesting coverage. Prior to OHIP+, parents used the coverage from private insurance companies to cover the costs of prescription drugs.

Submitting a request will cost parents an unnecessary amount of money and time. Now that OHIP+ is effective, it has caused more complications when the prescription can be easily covered by private insurance. Why go through so much trouble when, it can be easily avoided?

The new OHIP+ has both pros and cons.

Millions of young Ontarians and their parents have benefitted from the new OHIP+. Now, more prescriptions can be easily filled and more Ontarians under 25 have been provided with coverage for medications. For others, this program has created complications that could be easily avoided. Will there be more complications for parents? Will Ontario’s government make adjustments to OHIP+? Ontarians will just have to wait and see.

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community

COMMUNITY WRAP-UP A look at Mary Ward’s community during the new year

By Naomi Joson The Mary Ward community started off 2018 with a plethora of activities and events. As most of the school year has already flown by, students are busy getting their units and tests done in time for report cards.

STUDENTS LAURA HEATH AND ANJULI JOACHIM STAY WARM INSIDE THEIR HUT DURING ICE FISHING. (NICOLE POWELL)

January 08: Health Fair

OKOF’S STUDENT LEADERS PUT ESSENTIAL ITEMS FOR LIVING IN A JAR AND INVITED ONLOOKERS TO GUESS THEIR COST. (ANAIAH REYES)

STUDENTS ENGAGED IN PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES AT HEALTH FAIR. (MILLICENT AMURAO)

Grade 12 leadership students (PLF) held their annual health fair for grade 10 phys ed students. The event was split into stations where students did various activities, including an obstacle course, a food and nutrition quiz, and ‘shrinking island’. The grade 10s were also introduced to the senior health and phys ed courses available at Mary Ward, which includes, kinesiology, fitness, gym, and gym leadership.

As well, a paramedic, a nurse, and a dentist visited to talk to students about their respective occupations.

January 10: Grade 10 Phys Ed Snow Tubing

ROLLING DOWN A HILL IN BARRIE. (MILLICENT AMURAO)

Grade 10 Phys Ed students, supervised

by Mr. Kennedy, Mr. McAlpine, Mr. Audorian, Mr. Loconte, Ms. Peets, and Ms. Sersanti spent the day snow tubing in Barrie for a unit.

January 15-19: Our Kids’ Our Future Week This 2017/2018 school year, OKOF had decided to focus their efforts on immigration and refugees. With announcement and activities such as Jeopardy and Kahoot, students

throughout the week to spark school spirit within each grade. Each day had a theme along with activities during lunch: Monday was “Merch Monday” in which student wore school club or sport sweaters, Tuesday was “Tacky Tuesday” in which students wore bizarre hair and accessories, Wednesday was “What are Those Wednesday” in which students wore funky socks and/or shoes,

raised concern about the hardships immigrants and refugees encounter, such as language barriers, inadequate government support, and finances.

The Mary Ward community also had an opportunity to share their stories of being an immigrant or refugee over social media though the hashtag #OKOFWeek2018. Alongside, numerous contests were held where students won various gift cards by participating in the club’s activities.

January 23:Mary Ward’s Birthday

MS. BAILEY, DRESSED AS MARY WARD, VISITED STUDENTS THROUGHOUT SCHOOL. (ANAIAH REYES)

Throughout the week, the community held activities to celebrate the birthday of Mary Ward - a nun from the 16th century who is our school’s namesake.

TA groups baked cakes that were then entered into a contest; the winner won a pizza lunch. As well, a couple teachers dressed up as Mary Ward and went around the school to quiz students about Mary Ward and reward them with candy for correct answers.

January 29-February 09: Invigor8 This year, the Mary Ward community held its first ever Invigor8- 8 days scheduled classes where students participated in special activities.

February 02: Winter Activity Day As per Mary Ward Tradition, staff and students spent the day away from classes doing activities of their choosing- such as bowling, going on a scavenger hunt at Vaughan Mills, trampolining at Skyzone, or billiards.

February 13: Valentine’s Day Celebrations Because this year’s Valentine’s Day lands on the same day as Ash Wednesday, celebrations have been held a day prior.

Following tradition, Student Council placed hearts all over the third floor with each student’s name in the school written on each heart. In addition, the Green Quest Club sold roses and the Best Buddies Club sold Crush sodas for “Crush4Crush”.

February 14: Grade 11 Mock Trial Grade 11 Law students held a mock trial for the case of R v. Tisi for their culminating activity. The defendant was found not guilty.

February 15: Semi Formal This year, SAC’s Semi Formal was held at the Brighton Convention Centre from 7pm-11 pm. The theme for this year was “Enchanted Forest”. The community was served a four course meal and spent the evening dancing.

February 20th: Business Day

ON WHAT ARE THOSE WEDNESDAY, MR. COLEMAN RECEIVED A PIE TO THE FACE. (DALTON CHRISTIAN)

Thursday was “Tropical Thursday” in which students wore tropical attire, and Friday was “Rep Your Grade Day”.

Lunch activities included karaoke, pieing in the face, “guess the song” and “shrinking island”. This year, grades are given points for each participant and each post on their respective Instagram page during the week.

February 26: Black History Month Celebration

TOSA OLIOGU LEADS THE CHOIR IN A RENDITION OF LET MY PEOPLE GO. (VARSHAA RAGURAMAN) MS. VENTURA LEADS AN ACTIVITY ABOUT INTEREST. (JAMIE EDGHILL)

All business students participated in various activities, led by business leadership students, that taught them about the world of business. The morning was filled with workshops, one of which taught them how to invest their money, while the afternoon was filled with fun games including an escape room and Jeopardy.

February 26-March 02: SAC Spirit Week Student Council held events

An assembly was held with guest keynote speaker Tiki Mercury-Clarke and musician Ryan Souza to honour and celebrate Black History Month.

Speaker Tiki Mercury-Clarke taught the community some history regarding Black Canadians and discrimination. As well, she shared her own experience growing up as a Black woman in Canada.

To end off the assembly, a student sang the song “Let my People Go” with vocal students as the background choir.

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community community

Agenda Checking Why this department policy actually benefits students

By John Stoll Mary Ward’s selfdirected learning system is wonderful.

And the students who attend Mary Ward have access to several expansive departments, such as English, Family Studies, or the Library. These three departments, among others, also all have something in common: they check student agendas upon their entry. Many students find the process of checking agendas a burden, but staff say that the process is a necessity.

The purpose of the agenda book is to provide students with the ability to organize their affairs during their time at Mary Ward. Students use the agenda to keep track of the units that they have submitted, tests that need to be written amongst other items, but the single most important use of the student agenda is to plan one’s school day. During TA time, a student will write down their intentions for the day; where they want to go, what they want to work on, work they want to submit, consultations to be done, etc.

The TA (or a member of admin in the case of late arrival) will check and sign the student agenda in the morning.

Should this not be sufficient enough to prove a student’s intentions?

MANY STUDENTS ARE UNHAPPY WITH THE NEW POLICY PUT IN PLACE IN THE ENGLISH DEPARTMENT. (KATHRIEL RIVERA)

The library and computer lab utilize an extra signature because they are auxiliary areas for students to work.

Because there will not be direct assistance available from subject teachers, the person supervising the area will check to see that there is an additional signature in the agenda book before allowing a student entry to VOLUME 23 / ISSUE 2 mwplanet 10

that area. This process is used to ensure that students have been allowed to go to that area by the TA and also helps prevent students from spending all day without possibly seeing even one of their subject teachers.

community

Becoming More Inclusive and Welcoming Three easy ways to become a more inclusive member of Ward

By Gracy Yan The Mary Ward community as a whole is already as welcoming as it gets.

Seniors often help out grade nines, and maybe even vise versa. At Ward, there’s no such thing as “earning your place”.

You’re immediately welcomed as soon as you first start. Although, there are still ways that Ward could become an even more inclusive and welcoming community.

TEACHERS OFTEN HAVE TO ASK STUDENTS TO QUIET DOWN (PHOTO CREDITS (KATHRIEL RIVERA)

Many students are against the recent policy put in place in the English department in late January to early February, in which students agendas would be checked before they were allowed entry to the department to work or to consult with teachers.

Prior to this policy being put in place, many students would flock to English and often struggle to find seating. Teachers would often have to ask students to quiet down, as the volume level created by so many conversations going on in such an expansive department is astounding.

Now, the English department is much quieter, with less students going there, and with more students going who would like to work in peace.

The process of checking agendas may seem burdensome to students, and it may cause a slight delay in continuing with normal school activity at Mary Ward. However, it one of a small number of structural features put in place in a school and system with minimal structure to begin with.

Taking this structure away might just cause the whole building to fall apart - metaphorically, of course.

JOING CLUBS AND ACTIVITIES CAN HELP YOU MEET MORE PEOPLE.

placement, there isn’t someone by your side for the first couple of days to guide you and give you tips - but maybe there should be. Students could feel more included within the community

INVITE NEW PEOPLE TO SIT WITH YOU AT LUNCH (MILLICENT AMAMURAO)

and have a clear sense of what’s happening. Mentorship happens in some courses and in a job, so why not at school? Seniors from each TA could spend a day or two in the beginning of the year to help the new nines find their way through each course and the school.

(ANAIAH REYES)

(1) Increase interaction with International Students We have all gone through the time when we were lost, friendless, and confused as to where to go and how to survive at Ward. All of us has had that struggle and some of us even more than most. Those that have just come from a new place and are trying to immerse into a brand new culture and maybe even language might struggle more. We as a Mary Ward community could welcome them by guiding them through the struggles that we’ve all faced before.

THE MARY WARD COMMUNITY IS FRIENDLY AND WARM (DEION SQUIRESROSE)

(2) Having someone by your side to guide you Unlike training for a job or a co-op

INCLUSITIVITY CAN BE HARD TO INCORPORATE IN A SELF DIRECTED SCHOOL. (DEVONA PATHMANATHAR)

(3) Include everyone and meet new faces During lunch, you can see the separation between friend groups and between special education students.

We as a community can try to include everyone in conversations, even those you just met. Half of the time, we don’t even know about 50% of the students at Ward.

Since our school is a centre that nurtures self-directed learning, inclusivity is hard to incorporate because most of us are always independent anyways.

For a community that’s supposed to be extremely self-reliant, our environment gives off a very friendly aura that makes Ward feel better than what is expected.

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community

Demonstrating Excellence celebrating achievement Mary Ward students successfully competed in the 39th DECA Provincials and now quality for Internationals

DECA PROVINCIALS. (DEXTER FLOREZA)

By Dexter Floreza On February 8th, twenty-seven Mary Ward students stayed at the Sheraton Centre Hotel in Toronto for three days and two nights to prepare for a big day of presentations. Some of those students have since advanced to DECA Provincials after competing at the DECA Regionals competition.

STUDENTS (LEFT TO RIGHT) QUEENY CHU, RACHEL DENG, AND SASHINI MAHADUGRAGE). (RACHEL DENG)

different techniques throughout their presentations that made them stand out, using tactics such as: business cards, charts, and diagrams.

STUDENTS (LEFT TO RIGHT) ASHLEY LIN, PHOTO BY RACHEL DENG, SASHINI MAHADUGRAGE, RACHEL DENG, AND QUEENY CHU. (RACHEL DENG)

Mary Ward’s DECA chapter faced fierce competition along the way, as they competed against students from all over Ontario. To defeat students from other schools, one needed a good exam mark and stellar role play. For most people, the role play is the most difficult. Minutes before a DECA role play, a train of thoughts appear in one’s head: “What if my hand suddenly gets sweaty when I shake their hand?”, or “I hope I don’t stutter!”, and “You know what? I’m winging it.” The DECA Chapter at Mary Ward used many

At the end of the day, the goals for everyone were clear: learn valuable business knowledge, gain experience, bond as a DECA Chapter, and go to the International Career Development Conference (ICDC) hosted in Atlanta, Georgia this year. After a long Friday of role play presentations, the students ate dinner at the Sheraton and later played group games in the hotel room.

A lot of students were ready to hit the hay at that point, although some others may have stayed up late because of the excitement of possibly receiving an award at the awards ceremony the next day.

The 2018 DECA Provincials Award Ceremony saw the Mary Ward DECA Chapter being rewarded for their hard

STUDENTS (LEFT TO RIGHT) QUEENY CHU, RACHEL DENG, AND SASHINI MAHADUGRAGE. (QUEENY CHU)

work and dedication. Congratulations to Dexter Floreza, in his first year of DECA, placed Top 15 in Examination scores for his category, Principles of Business Administration (PBM).

Furthermore, congratulations to our ICDC qualifiers, Ashley Lin, Rachel Deng, and Sashini Mahadurage who achieved Top 15 Written score award, Top 15 Presentation score award, and Top 7 overall scores in their category, Community Service Project (CSP).

This gives them the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to travel down to Atlanta, Georgia to compete on the world stage.

We wish them good luck and a safe trip on their journey! The Mary Ward DECA Chapter is extremely thankful for the students who participated in DECA this year, we hope DECA has boosted your confidence, leadership, and communication skills. We hope to see even more DECA members in the future because every accomplishment starts with the decision to try!

DEXTER FLOREZA. (ASHLEY LIN)

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community community

The Enchanted Forest Semi-Formal

By Michelle Mariaprabhu February 15th was a day to remember for the Mary Ward community. Student council had its annual semi formal at the Brighton Convention Centre, and it was a huge success!

The theme for this evening was Enchanted Forest, and the night was definitely out of this world. The event was sold out, and it was filled with good food, good vibes and amazing people.

The night started with a gathering in the front foyer, where appetizers such as beef and chicken satays, vegetarian samosas, spring rolls, and mocktails such as strawberry kiwis and piĂąa colada were passed around.

These hors d’oeuvres turned out to be a massive hit with the crowd.

While seated, the guests enjoyed music, provided by DJ Dimes. Food was served at the tables, including the appetizer being caesar salad and an assorted bread basket, the first course consisting of a pasta with rose sauce, and the second course being an herb encrusted chicken with cooked vegetables and potatoes. To top it all off, the guests were served with a tartufo, which was a wonderful way to finish the meal.

As the meal ended, the night had just begun. Everyone gathered onto the dance floor and enjoyed the dance. A big thanks to all the teachers that helped and stayed till the end of the night, SAC for putting together this wonderful night, and all the guests for coming out!

PHOTOS TAKEN BY KATHRIEL RIVERA AND DEION SQUIRES-ROUSE

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sports

WinterActivity Day

By Jamie Edghill On February 2nd, 2018, students accompanied by teachers, participated in Winter Activity Day, an annual Mary Ward tradition that students look forward to all year long. With the a large number of activities offered, students are faced with a hard choice. However, no matter what they chose to do they were guaranteed to have a fun day and a chance to unwind. For some, the choice is easy: stay indoors and partake in activities ranging from billiards to Playdium. Others chose to brave the cold and go snowboarding or ice fishing. This year’s event was a great success. Students are surely looking forward to next year’s fun-filled activities.

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5 PHOTO CREDITS: ANITA POGOZELSKA (9) , DEION SQUIRES- ROUSE (4,6,7), LARA GOMEZ (10), MS.POWELL (1, 2, 3), MAGGIE OLIVEIRA (8)

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sports

[SPORTS|WRAP-UP] What Mary Ward’s athletes have been doing during the winter season

By Anjuli Joachim

Senior Girls Volleyball

The winter sports season here at Mary Ward proved to be another exciting and successful run for Ward athletes. Here’s this issue’s sports wrap-up.

Junior Girls’ Volleyball

Coaches: McAlpine Record: 0 wins 13 losses Mr. McAlpine is proud of the team and all of their unwavering effort throughout the entire season. This season was a learning experience for all of the players, and we look forward to their continued improvement next year.

Senior Boys Basketball

Coaches: Davies and Coleman Once again Ward’s Varsity Swim Team had a great season. The team did their best at the annual TDCAA tournament, with Chris Mulroney in particular standing out. He advances to OFSAA in Windsor in February. Congrats to the entire team on their success!

Ski and Snowboard

THE SENIOR GIRLS VOLLEYBALL TEAM SETS ITSELF UP FOR SUCCESS. (DALTON CHRISTIAN)

THE JUNIOR GIRLS PLAYED GREAT ON DECEMBER 13, 2017 . (MILLICENT AMURAO)

Coach: Loconte and Walker Record: 3 wins 3 losses The Junior Girls volleyball team worked hard at every game, and finished with a solid overall record of exactly 3 wins and 3 losses. At playoffs, the girls sadly lost in quarters and did not advance any further. Their dedication to the sport and commitment to the team foreshadows a great season for the Sr Girls Volleyball team in the upcoming years.

Coaches: Wong and Emer Record: 7 wins 1 losses This was a fantastic season for Senior Girls Volleyball! After a stunning regular season with a record of 7 wins and only 1 loss, the girls made it to playoffs. They defeated the opposing teams Loretto Abbey and Bishop Allen in the quarters and finals respectively, making it all the way to TDCAA finals.

Sadly, the girls lost to Father John Redmond and missed their OFSAA opportunity. However if this season is any indicator of what’s to come, next years team will definitely be killer.

Coaches: Buck and Veccharelli Record: 1 win 8 losses Despite a disappointing season the boys played with great heart and delivered a game worth watching at Ward’s first ever Homecoming! Don’t forget to watch the annual Rumble to see the boys play against the teachers.

Junior Boys Basketball

Varsity Swim Team

THE JUNIOR BOYS ON NOVEMBER 28, 2017. (NICHOLAS KERR)

PASSIONATE MARY WARD SWIMMERS DID A GREAT JOB REPRESENTING THE SCHOOL. (DALTON CHRISTIAN)

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THE SENIOR BOYS ENJOY A GREAT GAME ON DECEMBER 16, 2017 .

(DEVONA PATHMANATHAR)

ONE OF MARY WARD’S SWIMMERS DIVES INTO HER SWIM. (DALTON CHRISTIAN)

MARY WARD SKIIERS BRAVE THE COLD IN THE NAME OF GLORY. (LEONARDO CASAS OROPEZA)

COMPETITORS FLEW DOWN THE SLOPE WITH GRACE. (LEONARDO CASAS OROPEZA)

Coach: Adourian Despite rain on a couple of occasions throughout the season, the team worked through it and overall each team member had a fantastic run.

Seasoned skiers Julian and Daniela advanced to OFSAA, and made Mary Ward proud. Well done to the entire team!

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TFC CHAMPIONSHIP WIN Toronto teams are on the up again

By Joe Casciaro Toronto has not seen a lot of championships in major sports over the past 50 years, except for the sometimes successful Toronto Argonauts. Toronto fans were finally given something to smile about on December 9th, 2017 when the Toronto Football Club (TFC) won their first MLS championship.

Leading up to this historic win was a hugely successful season. Led by forwards Sebastian Giovinco and Jozy Altidore, the Reds delivered the best record in MLS history. They finished the season with 20 wins, 5 losses, and 9 draws. No team has ever calculated this many points in a single season.This record was largely due to two forwards

who delivered a total of 31 goals over the course of the regular season. Giovinco scored 16 goals and Altidore scored 15. This dynamic duo was unstoppable during the regular season, and it was no different in the playoffs.

They were able to defeat the Sounders running with, the future is very bright.

2-0 and truly cemented the title of the Toronto could be seeing many more greatest season in MLS history. As long soccer championships in the future. as TFC keeps the core players they are

Jozy Altidore in particular, really shone in the playoffs, scoring many gamewinning goals and ultimately leading the team to victory. Toronto FC was on the path to proving that they are a top contender in the MLS. There was a lot at stake for the TFC this year. In 2016 they lost to the Seattle Sounders in the championship game during penalty shots. As fate would have it, that is exactly the team whom they would play once again. They had the opportunity to rewrite history in the finals, and they did exactly that.

TFC CELEBRATES THEIR WIN OVER THE SEATTLE SOUNDERS VIA FORBES MAGAZINE

The future of the olympics Adam Rippon and Gus Kentworthy are the voices of change

By Anjuli Joachim

in sports history. Within its first year, the Trump administration has tried to reinstate a ban on transgender people in the military. It has nominated multiple people to the courts and elsewhere who have anti-LGBTQ records. It has directed its federal lawyers to take the anti-LGBTQ side in court cases. And it has done some very petty things, like refusing to recognize Pride Month.

Vice President Mike Pence in particular has caused outrage in the LGBTQ+ community due to his alleged support for gay conversion therapy in the past.

When watching figure skater Adam Rippon compete, it’s easy to forget that he’s on skates. His perfect movements emulate those of a professional dancer. He hides the technical difficulty of every jump with a stoic expression, illustrating the fact that he is a performer as well as an athlete. But there’s one thing Rippon won’t be hiding – this year, he and freestyle skier Gus Kenworthy will become the first openly gay American men to ever compete in the Winter These political positions have resulted in backlash from both Gus Kentworthy Olympics. and Adam Rippon in recent weeks.

Although they are not the first openly Kentworthy captioned a photo of gay Olympians to compete, the current Adam Rippon and himself during political climate of the United States the Opening Ceremonies with, “I does make this a notable moment feel incredibly honored to be here in

ADAM RIPPON (LEFT) AND GUS KENTWORTHY AT THE OLYMPICS. PHOTO VIA CBS SPORTS.

Korea competing for the US and I’m so proud to be representing the LGBTQ community alongside this amazing guy!

Eat your heart out, Pence. #TeamUSA #TeamUSGay.” As well, just last month following the announcement that Pence would be part of the US Delegation to Pyeonchang, champion skater Rippon told USA Today: ‘You mean Mike Pence, the same Mike Pence that funded gay conversion therapy? I’m not buying it.

I would absolutely not go out of my way to meet somebody who I felt has gone out of their way to not only show that they aren’t a friend of a gay person but that they think that they’re sick.

I wouldn’t go out of my way to meet somebody like that.’

The last time that the United States sent an openly gay man to any Olympic Games was in 2004, when equestrians Guenter Seidel and Robert Dover won bronze in team dressage. It was Dover’s sixth time representing the United States at the Olympics; during his second Games, in 1988, Dover came out, becoming the first openly gay athlete to compete in the modern Olympics.

These many LGBT athletes and the many more who continue to go unrecognized have overcome extreme hardships throughout history, and illustrate just how much more work needs to be done.

Kentworthy and Rippon are two of the most recent openly queer athletes, but they certainly won’t be the last. In Kentworthy’s own words, “We’re here.

Their comments have made media We’re queer. Get used to it.” headlines around the world, drawing attention to not only the plight of gay athletes in America today, but the history of LGBTQ+ Olympians around the world, which is long and often heartbreaking.

Records of LGBT Olympians date back to German runner Otto Peltzer, for instance, who competed in the 1928 and 1932 Olympics, but was arrested by the Nazis in 1934 for his homosexuality and was later sent to the concentration camps. In more recent years, athletes have waited to come out until after their time in competition was over, including figure skaters Johnny Weir and Brian ADAM RIPPON SKATES AT THE OLYMPICS. PHOTO VIATHE ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER Boitano.

VOLUME 23 / ISSUE 2 mwplanet 15

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30k for lebron james

nhl players out of the olympics

Lebron James hits a 30 000-point milestone in his NBA

For the first time in 20 years, there are no NHL Players are competing in the Olympics

By Joseph Casciaro On January 23rd, 2018 in a game between the Cleveland Cavaliers and the San Antonio Spurs, LeBron James took another step in his illustrious career. James hit a pull-up jumper to join the remarkable 30,000-point club, showing that we are truly being graced by a modern day Michael Jordan and one of the greatest of all time.

teammates continue to praise him for being such a team player.

Long-time teammate, Dwayne Wade, said, “He’s definitely been gifted, but he works as hard, if not harder, than the person who doesn’t have those gifts.”

Wade obviously has high praise for the hard-working James, just as everyone does, but James is still extremely humble, “One thing I’ve always prided myself on is just being available - being available for my teammates, where they know that every night I’m available for LeBron James has also passed a record them.”. James obviously prides his game for the youngest player to ever reach on making his teammates better and is 30,000 points, hitting the milestone at an unselfish star. just 33 years and 24 days. Almost a year younger than the previous record of 34 Even with all LeBron James has done years and 104 days set by Kobe Bryant. there is still the question of if he actually All of the other six players already at the is the greatest player of all time. With 30,000-point milestone reached this this 30,000-point achievement, he is achievement when they were coming once again proving that he very well near the end of their career. LeBron could be the G.O.A.T. (Greatest Of All however is in his prime; he is nowhere Time). Additionally, he reached this near retirement. We can only imagine 30,000 point milestone more than how much more LeBron can offensively five years earlier than Michael Jordan, accomplish in the upcoming seasons. He a player who has consistently been is only the seventh player in NBA history LeBron’s competition for the coveted to reach the 30, 000 point milestone, title of “greatest of all time”. and it is not someone to ignore. James is joining a highly elite club of players Simply put, James is a total powerhouse. as only true NBA superstars are able to He has enjoyed a career with minimal accomplish this goal. injuries and effortless scoring, appearing in 94% of the games in his The other six players to have reached career thus far and has averaged at least 30,000 points are Michael Jordan, Kobe 25 points in 14 of his 15 seasons. Sports Bryant, Karl Malone, Dirk Nowitzki, Illustrated has described LeBron’s Wilt Chamberlain, and Kareem Abdul efficiency as, “Superhuman reliability.”

Jabbar. These six players are some of Sports Illustrated expects that LeBron the greatest to ever lace up a pair of James will pass Michael Jordan’s scoring high tops, and for LeBron to be named total after the 2019 All-Star Break and alongside these players’ only cements only at the age of 34. LeBron James just his legacy as a superstar. Lebron would might be the greatest NBA player of allsay after this historic game where he time. reached this milestone, “I just started thinking about everything. My journey When LeBron hit the 30,000-point from being a kid who first picked up a milestone, his long-time teammate and basketball when I was 5 years old to first real life best friend, Dwayne Wade, was playing organized basketball when I standing with him on the court. After was 9 all the way up to this point.”

James’ historic game Wade would say, “Just incredibly happy that I could be James has always been critiqued by here to witness something so historic in sports analysts for having star-studded the game of basketball, and that I could teams when he wins a championship, be on the court during that moment for but with this accomplishment it can him”. All that is left to say is that with make the people that criticize him LeBron James at only 33 years of age, wonder if his teammates become stars one can only imagine how much more because they are playing next to him. he has to accomplish. We could truly be This achievement is larger than just a looking at the greatest of all time, who number, as he is now being listed as one has many more years ahead of him. of the greatest scorers in history, but his VOLUME 23 / ISSUE 2 mwplanet 16

AFTER CONDUCTING A POLL DETERMINING IF FANS WOULD BE IN FAVOUR OF THE NHL TAKING A BREAK FOR THE OLYMPICS, 73 PERCENT OF AMERICANS WERE NOT IN FAVOUR WHILE 53PERCENT OF CANADIANS WERE AGAINST THE BREAK. (RICHARD LAUTENS)

By Anjuli Joachim

choosing to compete for their countries.

Other professional sports leagues Ever since 1998, like the NBA do not have to make the National Hockey same break in a season, since Olympic League (NHL) players basketball events are in its off-season. have been allowed to participate in the Fans and players alike are obviously Winter Olympics. This changed in 2018. disappointed with this development.

For the first time in 20 years, the Olympics Immediately following this will take place without professional announcement, the National Hockey hockey players in the mix. Noticeably League Players’ Association put out absent is Canadian favourites Sidney the following statement: “The players Crosby and Jonathan Toews, who will are extraordinarily disappointed and be missing from the Canadian team for adamantly disagree with the NHL’s the first time since 2010. short sighted decision not to continue For many hockey fans this came as a surprise. However, for the NHL, this was a long time coming. The NHL’s decision to pull out of the 2018 Winter Olympics came following a series of disputes between the league and the International Olympic Committee (IOC). The IOC had paid for the travel, insurance, accommodations and other costs for NHL players in the past but refused to continue to do so for 2018, due to the fact that the IOC does not do so for any other professional sport league (like the National Basketball Association).

In addition, participating in the Olympics is much more of an inconvenience for the NHL than for other professional sports leagues. In the last few Olympics, the NHL took a three-week break in its season to accommodate the athletes

our participation in the Olympics. Any sort of inconvenience the Olympics may cause to next season’s schedule is a small price to pay compared to the opportunity to showcase our game and our greatest players on this enormous international stage.”

An Angus Reid Institute study found that most Canadians find the men’s hockey competition in Pyeongchang less appealing due to the lack of NHLers.

Precisely 17% of Canadians polled reported that they will no longer watch the games.

Now that the Olympics are underway, Canada’s national team has the high expectations of delivering the gold medals the world has come to expect.

All of Canada will be watching - well at least 83% that still cares.

THE NHL HAS PARTICIPATED IN THE OLYMPICS FOR 5 CONSECUTIVE YEARS BEFORE ENDING THEIR STREAK FOR THE 2018 PYEONGCHANG OLYMPICS. (BRUCE BENETTE)

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Le Choc Cul turel Carnaval Entre le Canada de Quebec et la France Un récapitulatif du Carnaval de Québec de cette année par Sabrina Percy

Si vous ne le savez pas encore, Carnaval est une grande fête d’hiver au Québec chaque année en janvier et février.

Carnaval a tellement de visiteurs qu’il est considéré comme le plus grand carnaval d’hiver au monde! Cette année Carnaval était du 26 janvier au 11 février. Pour commémorer la fin de Carnaval 2018, voici un aperçu de l’histoire, des traditions et des événements de Carnaval.

BONHOMME, LA REPRÉSENTATION VIVANTE DE LA JOIE DE VIVRE DES QUÉBÉCOIS. (JACQUES BOISSINOT)

Le premier Carnaval était au Québec en 1894. Il a été créé pour garder les résidents du Québec occupés et motivés pendant les hivers froids.

Rapidement, il est devenu un festival d’hiver populaire et en 1954 Bonhomme est devenu la mascotte de Carnaval.

Avec une tuque rouge et une ceinture fléchée, Bonhomme représente le “joie

de vivre” des Québécois! Bonhomme est devenu un personnage classique avec le Père Noël et le lapin de Pâques.

Quelques traditions de carnaval sont Bonhomme, les sculptures de glace, la ceinture fléchée, la chanson “Salut Bonhomme”, le Palais de glace, le défilé de nuit, la course en canot et beaucoup d’autres activités. Les sculptures de glace et la course en canot sont deux compétitions amusantes où on peut montrer son esprit de Carnaval ou “joie de vivre”. Dans la course en canot, les équipes traversent le fleuve SaintLaurent. Boire la boisson traditionnelle, “le Caribou”, un vin sucré et porter la ceinture fléchée sont aussi populaires.

Pendant Carnaval, les Québécois se rencontrent pour essayer ces activités partout autour de la ville de Québec.

Cette année, il y avait plus de 70 activités officielles. Le Palais de glace et le défilé de nuit étaient de grandes attractions. Comme chaque année, les Québécois apprécient les traditions de Carnaval. Ces traditions et événements sont très importants à l’histoire Canadienne- Française et ils sont une façon d’apprécier les racines des Canadiens français. Bien que nous avons manqué le Carnaval cette année, nous pouvons garder janvier 2019 dans nos calendriers pour Carnaval l’année prochaine et nous pouvons apprécier toutes les activités amusantes tout en comprenant l’héritage canadiennefrançaise.

Les différences entre la France et le Canada par Sabrina Percy Tous deux le Canada et la France ont beaucoup des similarités entre leur cultures. Généralement, les deux pays partagent la perspective occidentale.

La France a un grand impact sur le Canada, parce qu’au Canada, environ un tiers de la population est francophone. Cependant, il y a encore des différences entre les cultures qui causent des malentendus pour les

Aussi, “la bise” est une salutation qui est utilisée communément en France. Pour cette salutation, on embrasse les joues de la personne qui part. Cela peut être nouveau ou inconfortable pour un Canadien habitué aux gestes simples de la main utilisées au Canada.

DEUX RÉGIONS FRANCOPHONES AVEC DE NOMBREUSES DIFFÉRENCES. (DENIS BEAUMONT)

Canadiens en France et vice versa.

Les Français ressentent la confusion quand ils interagissent avec les Québécois. Les Français au Canada comprennent souvent mal les expressions ou l’argot français. Par exemple, l’expression “chauffer le char,” une expression québécoise, serait plutôt “démarrer une voiture” en France.

Ceci est seulement l’un des nombreux exemples de l’argot de la France et celui du Canada étant différents, et peut être déroutant pour les deux parties.

Pour un Canadien qui visite la France, certains chocs peuvent être la langue, les salutations, le ton et les valeurs des français. Par exemple, généralement, les Français ne se tutoient pas (c’est-à-dire LE PALAIS DE GLACE. (CARNAVAL DE QUÉBEC INC)

ils n’utilisent pas “tu”) et généralement se vouvoient (c’est-à-dire ils utilisent “vous”). “Vous” est plus formel, donc ça pourrait sembler condescendant à un Canadien.

Une autre différence culturelle est notre opinion sur la religion. Au Canada nous croyons que tout le monde peut exprimer librement sa religion. Cependant, en France il y a un point de vue plus stricte sur la religion.

Par exemple, les femmes musulmanes n’ont souvent pas le droit de porter le foulard à l’école ou dans les lieux publics.

Généralement, la France et le Canada ont des points de vue occidentaux similaires, et ont un mélange de citoyens compris de beaucoup d’immigrants.

Dans les deux pays, ce mélange de culture change graduellement les stéréotypes et les traditions à mesure que nous devenons plus inclusifs partout.

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Are Movie Musicals Back At It Again?

Do Re Mi Fa So many movie musicals

By Alyssa Bravo In the last decade, blockbuster films have paved their way into mainstream pop culture, with genres like superhero and fantasy on the forefront. However, in the last few years, various box office and critical successes have attributed strongly to the sudden rejuvenation of musical films.

spirit alive in the 1990s with numerous animated musical classics such as The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, The Lion King, and Mulan.

Still, in the 2000s and early 2010s came the struggle to reintroduce live-action musical films into pop culture. The prevalence of superheroes and fantasy films were and continue to be the focus of many Hollywood productions.

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Five Reasons Why You Should Watch Black Mirror Everyone’s watching Black Mirror, and you should too

By Nimmy Ayekun Since its release in 2011, Black Mirror has accumulated a large mass following. The satirical techno-paranoia television series examines the darker sides of technology in our tech-obsessed world. People tend to enjoy it for different reasons, but here is short list of why you might want to watch it if you haven’t already.

showrunners focus a lot on the concept of technologies that allow people to access others’ human consciousness which is terrifying in and of itself, but also very plausible.

It Has Something for Everybody to Enjoy While Black Mirror tackles some heavy subject matter, not every episode focuses on the negative consequences of the digital age. Some episodes (more so in season 3 and season 4) show the

LA LA LAND PHOTO VIA RIVERFORESTLIBRARY.ORG

The genre of musical films was first introduced in the 1920s, and eventually maintained a strong relevance in the mainstream with the release of 1939’s The Wizard of Oz. In the 1960s, the success of films like West Side Story, The Music Man, and The Sound of Music suggested that traditional musicals were in very good health.

BLACK MIRROR IS AN ORIGINAL NETFLIX TV SHOW PHOTO VIA NETFLIX

Its Unconventional Format

“THE GREATEST SHOWMAN” MOVIE POSTER PHOTO VIA FILM FAN

Despite this, many exceptions have sparked hope in moviegoers who continue to enjoy and cherish musicals.

2012’s Les Miserables and 2016’s La La Land received numerous accolades, including Golden Globes and Academy Awards. Disney’s live-action adaptation of Beauty and the Beast was the highest grossing film of 2017, earning over $1.2 billion worldwide. Also released in 2017 was The Greatest Showman, which received the Golden Globe for Best Original Song at the 75th ceremony.

LIVE ACTION ADAPTATION OF “BEAUTY AND THE BEAST” PHOTO VIA ITUNES APPLE

As decades passed, the significance of movie musicals somewhat deteriorated with the growing success of other film genres. With the 1970s came the popularity of gangster films. In the 1980s, teen coming-of-age films rose to prominence. Fortunately, Walt Disney Animation Studios kept the musical VOLUME 23 / ISSUE 2 mwplanet 18

So what makes these films so appealing to audiences? Musical films mainly utilise song and dance in order to advance the plot of the story, the development of the characters, or sometimes as a mere break in the storyline. This goes to show that the genre’s entertainment factor is almost limitless considering the emotion that music is able to convey. It is clear that a variety of audiences are capable of enjoying a full-fledged movie musical, no matter what may be most prevalent

Unlike most television series, each episode in Black Mirror is a standalone; unique in structure, plot, cast and setting. This anthology approach makes the series enjoyable to watch for several reasons. For one, you don’t really know what to expect next. You can very easily to go from watching an

“SAN JUNIPERO” PHOTO VIA VANITY FAIR

flip-side as well. Take for example the Emmy award-winning fan-favorite “San Junipero,” which simply uses the shows format to tell a love story between two women.

It’s Relatable

episode about the Prime Minister of England to one about Star Trek - there isn’t really any in between.

The scenarios depicted in Black Mirror aren’t as far-fetched as you might think they would be, considering how the show is often classified to be “sci-fi.”

But that is the point. Charlie Brooker, the creator of the show, once said in an interview that he wanted the series to be “about the way we live now; and the way we might be living in ten minutes’ time if we’re clumsy.” That being said, a large bulk of the series’ episodes are set in present day and examine the use of technology that already exist.

The Way it Bridges Horror, Technology, and Satire

It’s on Netflix - the Perfect Place to Binge

One of the reasons that Black Mirror is talked about so much is because many of the episodes reimagine the future of technology in the most intricate and sometimes extremely dark ways, and as a result forces us to think deeper about our current reality. In season 4, as always, the episodes that make up the season are starkly different from one and other. Each episode is full of deep twists and turns, but the

After season 2 concluded on the British networking station Channel 4, Netflix bought the programme for $40 million, making it available for you, your friends, your brothers, your sisters and for even for your parents to enjoy all at once!

They also increased episodes in each season beginning from seasons 3 to 6, meaning there is even more to watch and enjoy.

BLACK MIRROR CAST PHOTO VIA DEN OF GEEK

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Getting Wasted Alex Villeneuve and Ceres Solutions deliver revolutionary ecofriendly technology

By Yuki Tam Winner of Startup Canada’s Young Entrepreneur Award 2017, called Olds College enviro-prodigy by Maclean’s magazine, winner of the AgriTech/Food Tech Competition of the Canadian National Exhibition 2017: Alex Villeneuve is a force to be reckoned with. Building an environmentallydriven, innovative, and sustainable company is no easy feat. This ambitious 21 year-old took Canada’s agriculture world by storm after he started growing mushrooms in his dorm room.

Alex Villeneuve is now the owner of Ceres Solutions, a company setting new standards for Canadian agriculture. Graduate of Olds College brewmaster program and third year apprentice chef, this ingenuity all started when Villeneuve noticed the large amount of waste the craft beer production and brewing process creates. In an interview with Eat Alberta, Villeneuve said, “On my second day at Olds College, I noticed the piles of crushed barley kernels left over from the brewing process, this waste is commonly known as spent grain, while most breweries dispose of spent grains using a composting system, I thought there had to be a better way to use those grains.”

Spent grain has a high moisture content, an unpleasant odour, and allows for quick bacteria growth. It is no surprise that breweries want to dispose of this byproduct quickly and effectively. Additionally, Toronto

Star reports that spent grain accounts for 85% of the byproducts in beer production. So, Villeneuve looked for a solution.

Lo and behold, there is one. Villeneuve’s company, Ceres Solutions upcycles spent grain by using it to grow gourmet mushrooms. Oyster mushrooms which can take up to two years to grow is grown in two weeks using Ceres’ modular growth system, a system which can possibly be applied to other agricultural ventures. By injecting mycelium or the roots of mushrooms into lightly processed spent grain, Villeneuve has found a great alternative in regards to beer production waste disposal. It is simply genius.

The beautiful mushrooms are then sold to local restaurants or farmer’s markets with pride. The company then uses most of the byproducts of the mushroom-growing operation to create food pellets, which are sold as animal feed to farmers. Ceres Solutions also offers a waste removal program for breweries.

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I, TONYA MOVIE REVIEW

An overview of the new mockumentary film starring Margot Robbie

By Madeleine MacIsaac-Sun I, Tonya is a biographical mockumentary film about reviled figure skater Tonya Harding, made famous not by her prowess on the ice but by the scandal that would end her skating career.

Harding – played by Margot Robbie – was the antithesis of everything a figure skater was thought to be. She was known as blue-collar, povertystricken, trailer trash Tonya, and stood in stark contrast to fellow figure skaters.

Her circumstances never stopped her from having a successful career, and she was the first American woman and second in the world to successfully land a triple axel in competition.

Unfortunately, in 1994 her ex-husband Jeff Gillooly (played by Sebastian Stan) hired two goons to bash in competitor Nancy Kerrigan’s knee. The attack turned a nation against Harding, and she was subsequently banned from competitive skating following the FBI investigation.

served as a gateway to her relationship with her abusive husband (and later exhusband), Jeff Gillooly.

The film often breaks the fourth wall (LUCKYCHAP ENTERTAINMENT)

Despite the heavy subject matter, the film is bleakly funny, and many laughs from the audience can be heard throughout. Much of the comedic relief comes from LaVona Harding (played by Allison Janey). Harding’s buffoonish body guard (played by Paul Walter Hauser) is also the source of many of the film’s funnier moments. Of course, Tonya herself is hilarious; her blunt speech and mannerisms often shock other characters, and even the audience.

The initiative, Alex Villeneuve, and his company inspires young people. 2018 must be a year of creativity, a year that welcomes new ideas and advocates for technology which encourages sustainability. People can take from this a sense of hope and as a much needed example of environmental innovation.

Next time you see someone cracking open a cold one with the boys, think about some oyster mushrooms and perhaps you yourself can conjure up the next big step in Canada’s tech scene.

MARGOT ROBBIE PLAYS ONE OF FIGURE SKATING’S MOST CONTROVERSIAL FIGURES. (LUCKYCHAP ENTERTAINMENT)

ALEX VILLENUEVE, OWNER OF CERES SOLUTIONS. (NOEL WEST)

Instead of painting Harding as the villain (as is so often done), director Craig Gillespie chose to paint her in a sympathetic light. In fact, Nancy Kerrigan is barely mentioned in the movie. The plot focuses on Harding’s life before and just after the attack. She grew up in poverty in a single-parent household, enduring daily abuse from her mother. Her unstable home life

Although the skating scenes are beautiful, I, Tonya isn’t a movie about figure skating. It’s a movie about domestic violence: how chronic instability and abuse can destroy even the most talented people. One can’t help but wonder how successful Harding’s career would have been if she had grown up in a healthy setting.

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The Cultural Impact of Black Panther Why Marvel’s newest movie has people flocking to theatres

By Alyssa Bravo Prior to the release of Marvel Studios’ superhero flick Black Panther, the film had already garnered much attention over social and traditional media.

It was voted as 2018’s second most anticipated film of the year (behind only the studios’ own upcoming Avengers: Infinity War). Upon its release, it earned critical acclaim from movie critics.

It took in a record-breaking $242.1 million in the United States alone and

for failing to recognize and include people of colour. When upcoming releases are expected to cater to a certain community, there are many expectations these films are supposed to live up to.

All over the world, Black Panther is being treated as a break and a policy shift in the midst of white-nativist movements and cultural regression. The film sparked excitement beyond just social media. It has inspired everything from Black Panther-themed watch parties to numerous academic panel discussions

THE CAST OF BLACK PANTHER FEATURES MANY TALENTED ACTORS. PHOTO VIA WALT DISNEY STUDIOS MOTION PICTURES.

quickly became the biggest February movie opening since 2016’s Deadpool.

Beyond its dominance in the box office and critical success, however, Black Panther has become quite the cultural phenomenon.

BLACK PANTHER HIGHLIGHTS AND CELEBRATES DIFFERENT ASPECTS OF AFRICAN CULTURES. PHOTO VIA WALT DISNEY STUDIOS MOTION PICTURES.

The film marks a new significance in both Hollywood and Black communities. Hollywood is notorious VOLUME 23 / ISSUE 2 mwplanet 20

and lectures sponsored by universities and churches around the United States.

A Change.org petition suggested that 25% of the movie’s profits go to Black communities’ science, technology, engineering and math programs.

Black Panther is considered a love letter to Black culture. It acknowledges and celebrates African tradition in the fictional nation of Wakanda, accurately displaying African society and AfricanAmerican political debates - factors that are so often underplayed in Hollywood blockbusters. It appreciates the beauty and power of Black women, who are also under-represented in mainstream films. The film offers enough entertainment value for all audiences to enjoy, but Black viewers in particular may be able to relish in their culture finally being represented the right way.

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The serious effects of whitewashing in Hollywood

By Varshaa Raguraman Representation is important. It is no secret that people of colour are rarely represented fairly in the media. However, there is something worse than underrepresentation: white-washing. Many white-washed movies flop at the box office - so why does Hollywood still make them?

People of colour are rightfully upset over the fact that the media is run almost entirely by white people. Most film producers continue to hire people to be lighter-skinned than their original characters by default - so default that audiences failed to question it for a long time. When there were leading roles starring persons of color, they were usually led by stereotypes of that race: loud, angry black women who are sassy; East Asian characters with glasses who read out statistics in an action movie; technology-driven Indians who tell the white actors that they have a 2% chance of succeeding in their mission, etc.

For a group of people who make up less than 5% of the world population, Caucasians are front and center in a majority of films produced in North America and Europe. Over 78% of characters in movies are white. Usually, there are less than 30 seconds of POC lines in a film. For example, Scarlett Johansson starred as a Japanese anime character in the movie of Ghost in the Shell. A black transgender female was portrayed as a white male in Stonewall, erasing her entire identity and being

incredibly historically inaccurate and offensive. Rooney Mara, a white European actress, was cast as a Native

ROONEY MARA PLAYED A NATIVE CHACTER IN THE LIVE ACTION REMAKE OF OF PETER PAN. PHOTO VIA WARNER BROS.

American character from Peter Pan in the 2015 live action film. Johnny Depp played the role of a Native American man in The Lone Ranger. What is common with all of these films is that none of them succeeded in the box office or with critics and audiences.

White-washing is nothing new.

Hollywood needs to realize that they are erasing cultures and identities by casting inaccurate roles. In magazines, people with brown skin are lightened.

Photoshopping away a pimple or a stray hair is okay, but to completely change a person’s appearance should be unacceptable. Hollywood, listen up - people of colour exist. People of colour are just as talented, beautiful, and want to see a change. Make people of colour known; stop erasing identities and start representing us more in the media. We exist as more than an extra in the background.

SCARLETT JOHANSSON IN GHOST OF THE SHELL PLAYED A CHARACTER WHO WAS ORGINALLY WRITTEN AS ASIAN. PHTOTO VIA THE VERGE.

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creative spaces

The apps that stole the show last year

By Diana Guades Every year, countless hours are spent on mobile applications.

We use them for our education, communication and most of all, to simply pass the time. Very few people could have imagined that a device that could once only make and receive calls, can now do so much more. In 2017, we were introduced to old friends in a new and modern way and apps that truly make our daily lives easier and fascinating. From addictive games to an unconventional translator, here are the best apps of 2017: Super Mario Run by Nintendo Co., Ltd. The Mario game series has been iconic for decades. Accessible on many platforms, Super Mario Run was Nintendo’s first game made available on mobile devices. The app features three game modes: Toad Rally, a Kingdom Builder and the main mode, World Tour. The Toad Rally puts users into a competitive setting where players challenge rivals in an asynchronous race. The Kingdom Builder gives players the opportunity to create and design an area of the Mushroom Kingdom.

They may also unlock more characters and bonus games. The essence of Super Mario Run, World Tour, is where you gain coins and Toad Rally tickets to participate in tournaments. You

maneuver Mario through obstacles in one handed gameplay while dodging infamous enemies and collecting coins; all to reach the famed flagpole.

Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp by Nintendo Co., Ltd. With 4.8 stars on the app store, Animal Crossing continues to strengthen Nintendo’s presence on mobile devices.

The purpose of the game is in its name, to create your very own campsite in your pocket. To be more specific, you become the manager of the camp. You are tasked with furnishing the camp, choosing the facilities and attracting animals. Throughout the game, you fulfill the requests of animals and receive various materials to further improve your space. You can visit your friends’ sites and showcase your creativity in a new and relaxing way.

Ballz by Ketchapp This addictive game took the app store by storm. Ketchapp (a hugely successful game developer) had released this 4.3 starred game during mid February.

The gameplay of Ballz is similar to Atari Breakout and Puzzle Bobble, the goal is to eliminate as many bricks as you can per level. Your score is determined by your level and you lose when the bricks reach the bottom. A fascinating factor of Ballz is that each brick takes a certain amount of hits before disappearing, constantly increasing the difficulty as

you go farther in the game.

Calm by Calm.com We all feel stress. The app Calm gives us a healthy outlet to deal with all the pressure and chaotic energy in our lives. Meditation sessions with a guide are available for 3, 5, 10, 15, 20 or 25 minutes, giving you plenty of opportunities to de-stress. Some meditations offered are directed towards calming anxiety, commuting to work or school and focus and concentration. Meditation has been shown to lower blood pressure and improve heart rate, breathing, and brain waves.

The Great Courses Plus by The Great Courses Smartphones offer an unprecedented level of access to knowledge. With an app like The Great Courses Plus, stimulating education isn’t limited to school. Over 8000 videos are available to download then watch offline for high quality learning wherever you are.

The topics range from programming to world languages to architecture.

In addition, new topics, lessons and professors are shown each month.

Runtasty - Healthy Recipes by runtastic Everyone knows the struggle of balancing between healthy foods and tasty foods. Runtasty by runtastic makes you forget that there’s a difference.

Over 40 healthy recipes show you how to make delicious food step-by-step.

Not much of a chef? Runtasty also has videos that show you how to do the basics, such as cutting mangos or poaching eggs. What really separates Runtasty from normal cooking apps is its efficient way of filtering recipes based on your dietary needs. You’ll be equipped with a recipe for every occasion and obligation.

Wemogee by 3x1010 s.r.l.

Wemogee is an app that aims to help people with aphasia, a complex neurological disorder. People affected by aphasia have trouble understanding and forming language. Wemogee works similarly to a translator: people with aphasia will send messages in the form of emoji and their friends and family will receive the message in text. Similarly, when a message is written in text, it will be “translated” to emoji. Emoji is much easier for aphasic people to communicate with because many emotions are shown through the symbols, bypassing the verbal barriers.

With all these amazing apps, it’s exciting to think of all the creative ways developers will change our daily lives. With the need for new apps and new programmers increasing, the possibilities are endless. We hope that you enjoy these apps as much as we do. Did we get your favourite?

Canadian Sitcoms on the Rise Canadian Sitcoms that you will want to see

By Madeleine MacIsaac-Sun When living so close to the television giant that is the United States, it can be easy to forget about what Canadian creators are up to. Despite this, homegrown television is not fading away, in recent years, some hilarious shows have popped up, all created and set in the country we call home.

Kim’s Convenience Kim’s Convenience first aired on CBC in October of 2016 to mostly positive reviews. The series centres on the Korean-Canadian Kim family and their Moss Park convenience store. The colourful family often finds itself in predicaments: whether it be “Umma” Kim Yong-mi’s (Jean Yoon) drama with fellow church-goers, estranged son

Jung Kim (Simu Liu) disturbing his roommate’s love life, or daughter Janet Kim (Andrea Bang) lying to get into a special screening at TIFF. The scripts are written by Ins Choi, who wrote the play that the show is based on, and Kevin White, who also wrote for the sitcom Corner Gas. Its second season recently finished airing in December.

Letterkenny Letterkenny originally debuted on the subscription service CraveTV and later aired on The Comedy Network. The show centers on Wayne (Jared Keeso) and Daryl (Nathan Dales) two best friends living in the fictional small town of Letterkenny, Ontario (loosely based on Keeso’s hometown of Listowel, Ontario). With its characters’ crazy antics and its dry humour, Letterkenny is quickly becoming a classic. As of October 2017, forty new episodes have been slated for production – lucky us!

Schitt’s Creek Schitt$ Creek focuses on the wealthy Johnny Rose (Eugene Levy), his wife Moira (Catherine O’Hara), and their two children David (Dan Levy) and Alexis (Annie Murphy). After their business manager fails to pay their taxes, they lose their fortune. In an attempt to rebuild their lives, they head to their last remaining asset: Schitt’s Creek, a town which they had bought for their son as a joke. Worlds collide as the family is forced to reconcile their big-city attitude with their new lives amongst the down-to-earth residents of Schitt’s creek. The series is currently airing its fourth season on CBC. Second Jen Second Jen, which premiered in 2016, recreates a common Canadian story.

Set in Toronto, the plot follows secondgeneration immigrants Mo (Amanda Joy, who has Filipino ancestry) and

Jen (Samantha Wan, who has Chinese ancestry) as they navigate their way through their twenties. The two face many conflicts between contemporary millennial culture and the more traditional ways of their parents.

The show’s protagonists are also its creators, who sought to create diversity in the television world. However, Wan has stated “This isn’t a show just about being Asian, it’s about the generational shift that’s happening out there.”. The show’s second season was filmed in January 2018 and is currently in postproduction.

The next time you’re looking for a laugh, start closer to home. After all, it is important to support Canadian art and culture. Additionally, these shows may be a little easier for a Torontonian to relate to!

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wact

Flipping the Narrative

Visual Artwork Artwork By Varshaa Raguramar

By Juliana G. Santos

“All is fine” said everyone who, whose name we do not know.

-everyone We, officers are Acting, on behalf of the peace cut away.

Trees, Roads, To Lands!

Artwork By Elizher Luz

We Trust We trust Land, To roads Trees Cut away On behalf of “The peace” Acting, We officers are Everyone Whose name we do not know Everyone who Said “all is fine”

Digital Work Artwork By Hannah Clemente VOLUME 23 / ISSUE 2 mwplanet 22

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Artwork By Elizher Luz

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BLACKOUT poems

poem #1

By Alexis Arayata

You may say we asked you to speak about women I will try to explain To wonder what the words meant If possible a respectful allusion But at second sight Words seemed not so simple You may have meant it Women They write Somehow all inextricably mixed together Consider them in that light One fatal drawback Should never be able to come to a conclusion I should Fulfil what is A nugget of pure truth wrapped between the pages Offer you an opinion Women must have a room of her own Leaves the great problem of the true nature But in order to make amends Develop your presence as fully + freely as you can Train of thought Think, lay bare ideas Lie behind this statement

fun and games

Almost

By Hannah Clemente

Through the looking glass awakens sheer hell Break the silence Open the cage There is no secret No glass palace No whisper left unheard They say everything will fall into place But To exist among the stars Is almost Impossible

Photography Photography

By Nicholas Kerr

poem #2

By Aila Mei Sanque

I know not, The beat of an excitable heart, Nor the beauty of the world.

Bowed down by the weight Laid upon my shoulders, I need not say, lost in thought.

Collar carelessly tugged, My head bowed to the ground.

What truth?

Lies flow from my lips.

There was nothing, I say.

Terrible reality.

Only phantoms of spring, The heat of crimson fire.

Minute after minute, Among the reflections I swayed Again I close.

How insignificant this thought of mine looked.

Photography

By Katlyn Luz

VOLUME 23 / ISSUE 2 mwplanet 23

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funand and games fun games

Changing the Subject ACCOUNTING ART BAND BIOLOGY BUSINESS CALCULUS CHEMISTRY COMMUNICATIONS CONSTRUCTION ENGLISH FOOD FRENCH GEOGRAPHY GYM HEALTH HISTORY INSPIRE JOURNALISM MANUFACTURING MIDI PHYSICS PORTFOLIO PSYCHOLOGY

Adventure Time

VOLUME 23 / ISSUE 2 mwplanet 24

Spot the Difference

By Yuki Tam