31 March 2015

THE

MIKE

TUESDAY, MARCH 31, 2015 ISSUE 6 - YOURS, OFF-MENU SINCE 1947

THIS ISSUE'S SPECIALS: 4-5

6-7

ARTS, Movies, Television, and theatre Served Hot!

STUDENTS WHO VOLUNTEER

HISTORY AND THE MIKE 8-9

SPECIAL:

12-13

14-15

10-11 FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY:

SMCSU ELECTIONS

LIVING FOR HERE OR TO GO

OPINIONS ALWAYS SPICY

Editorial

2 To the readers of The Mike,

They say that you can’t print a good newspaper if there’s a coconut in your office. We’re not much for old sayings, but now that the oppressive presence of the coconut has been removed, we’re free to produce a newspaper no longer bounded by the dredges of the past.

Our massive cleanup this week has left The Mike office pristine and inviting. No, really, we’re inviting you to come by.

As many of you noticed in the preceding issue, the layout of The Mike has been cleaned up as well. Our new design, like our sharp, insightful articles, represents one giant leap to a new age of The Mike. Thanks to everyone who dropped by to compliment our makeover.

As the school year winds down, we wish you all luck with exams, and hope that any issues arising from the TA strike are resolved.

Cheers and see you next year,

Sincerely, The Mike Masthead

Editor-in-Chief

Arts Editor

Living Editor

Opinions Editor

editorinchief@readthemike.com

arts@readthemike.com

living@readthemike.com

opinions@readthemike.com

Mr. Louis Train

Mr. Mark Matich

Mr. John Castellarin

Senior Copy Editor

Ms. Melissa Morgado

Ms. Palakh Chhabria

Design Manager Ms. Salena Barry

Business Manager Mr. Yasir Mustafa

Copyediting is the new black. write or edit for us

editorinchief@readthemike.com

@readthemike The Mike is the Official Bi-weekly Student Newspaper of St. Michael’s College in the University of Toronto, publishing since 1947. The Mike has a circulation of 2000, delivered to over 40 newsstands across the University of Toronto: St. George Campus and is published by The Mike Publications Inc. The Mike is printed by MasterWeb Inc on recycled newsprint stock and is a member of Canadian University Press. Copyright: 2012 The Mike Publications Inc. All Rights Reserved. All editorial inquires should be sent to editorinchief@readthemike.com. The Mike reserves the right to edit all submissions

LOOKING TO CONTRIBUTE? DROP US A LINE! editorinchief@readthemike.com www.readthemike.com 416-926-7272 • 81 ST. MARY ST. • TORONTO ON • M5S 1J4 •

editorial

3

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

It’s 2:30AM and I’m about to reheat the kettle for instant noodles. I’m tired, my eyes are bleary, my hair feels heavy. But I have an essay to write and a newspaper to publish so I’ll keep going.

I don’t remember the first time I felt like this but I’m sure it’s happened scores of times year after year, every November and March. Most of my university experiences have begun to blend with each other: that awesome study group meeting in first year or was it second? - and the TA (what was her name?) who changed my life. Leaving St. George Station, leaving Museum Station, finding a desk in Sid Smith, getting a good mark, meeting in the Sussex Clubhouse, getting a bad mark. There was a first for each experience but I’ll be damned if I can remember any of them. I’ve been Editor-in-Chief of The Mike for just over a month, but I remember our meetings as vividly as I do the gatherings of the feminist collective I belonged to for two very long years.

I guess it’s not a very good sign that I’ve forgotten most of the past four years. School days are supposed to be the best - or so the CIBC clerk who prepared The Mike’s most recent statements told me - but I’ve never been very good at having fun. I didn’t go to the parties or the poetry readings. I’ve never waxed philosophical in someone’s dorm room. My time is almost up and I’ve done almost nothing that I was supposed to.

Maybe in a few months it’ll all come back to me and I’ll fall to the floor weeping over sweet memories. Or maybe I’ll run into my best friends in two years and say, “I’m sorry, were we in a class together?”

I don’t know what kind of advice I can give to you who aren’t graduating except that you should always be doing something.

Spend time with friends, join a club or committee, protest the patriarchy. Even homework will do. Plan an event then go to that event. Just don’t waste time in front of a glowing screen or on a park bench reading a newspaper that’ll go under in your junior year. Work, socialize, cook, draw, navigate, listen.

Write for The Mike.

Congratulations to the class of 2015. In spite of everything you're a memorable bunch.

– LOUIS TRAIN, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

ARTS

4

Netflix Binge: House of Cards Season 3

Reviewing the second half of the season John Castellarin|Living Editor Entering the second half of season three, Francis continues to try and strong-arm those around him in order to make his mark and continues to use unconventional and sometimes barely legal tactics in order to do what he sees as best for the people of the United States. But as Frank does this it is becoming apparent he isn’t working to improve the welfare of citizens but rather is working to establish a legacy that will last beyond his political career. In seasons 1 and 2 Frank did terrible things to gain power, but it seemed that power, once gained, would be used to do good. In this way Francis seemed to carry the role of a protagonist, albeit a flawed one, but his constant lying and lack of respect for everyone around him makes it almost impossible to continue to view him as

a well-intentioned man. Just as viewers start to question Frank, Claire also has doubts about the man she’s been married to for thirty years. Although her claim that she’s been living in Frank’s shadow is not incorrect, the fact she’s upset about it ignores reason.

Furthermore, her attempt at a political career has been a complete failure, from her rejected sexual assault bill to her time at the UN, and her arrogance indicated by her inability to recognize her limits leaves her pointing the blame at Francis for making her feel powerless.

While Claire’s apparent separation from Francis lacks substance, to deny that Francis has failed to meet the emotional needs of his wife would be foolhardy.

It takes two to tango, and it will be interesting to see if Frank and Claire’s inability to fulfill their obligations to each other, while striving for political greatness, will lead to a

permanent collapse of their marriage. As Frank loses his wife’s support, audiences can find consolation in the re-establishment of Frank and Doug as an unstoppable force. A divorce from Claire would be politically devastating, but with Doug back in the picture and Rachel (or “Cassie”) buried somewhere in the New Mexico desert, it isn’t time to give up on Frank

just yet. Season 4 has yet to be confirmed but it likely will be, and it will be interesting to find out if the man from Gaffney finally makes his mark or ends his political career as a president never actually elected into office.

All I Desire

The crystallization of a Sirkian melodrama Mark Matich|Arts Editor

This year and last year TIFF has offered film buffs an embarrassment of riches in their retrospective series, some of which were tied to exhibitions—namely the Stanley Kubrick and David Cronenberg exhibitions.

Understandably, these series will always have marquee films with huge attendance—Barry Lyndon was sold out when I called to check if tickets were available. But the retrospectives are also invaluable in bringing to light overlooked films from the oeuvres of the directors or stars they celebrate.

One such film is 1953’s All I Desire, which played as part of a celebration of Barbara Stanwyck, the most famous film noir femme fatale and a legend for her fierce intensity in a long career of playing unapologetically harsh and brusquely dangerous women. She had the ability, in films like Double Indemnity, opposite Fred MacMurray, to make one almost want her machinations to succeed (in that film they do) because of how much conviction she put into her performances.

All I Desire is also a showcase for what were already the fully-formed directorial talents of German émigré director Douglas Sirk, who until this film was released in 1953 had made a series of what seem like somewhat contrived genre movies I haven’t had the fortune of seeing (one that stands out is Mystery Submarine, a 1950 movie whose title could be affixed to any number of ‘30s adventure potboilers). With All I Desire, he got the kind of nuanced yet vibrantly emotive material he could mould into the sort of poignant melodrama he later achieved great success with in the late ‘50s in a string of dramas culminating in a film beloved by many, 1959’s Imitation of Life.

All I Desire is concerned with what happens when the failed actress Naomi Murdoch,

played by Stanwyck, gets a letter from her daughter asking her to come back to a small Wisconsin town to see her perform in a school play. Naomi, who had abandoned her husband, two daughters and son to avoid their being ostracized after she was involved in an illicit liaison with another man, is enthusiastic about coming back. But despite her best intentions her return creates a conflict extending from the familial on the micro scale and eventually the whole town on the macro one, exactly the type of emotional powder-keg Sirk worked wonders with.

Stanwyck was “bouncing back” with this film, as she had just made the undistinguished 1953 Titanic at 20th Century Fox. With all the hallmarks of the films Universal was making at the time under as the corporate entity Universal-International, including the same kind of bucolic rural small-town feel one finds in the Ma and Pa Kettle Comedies, the understatement of the settings is belied by

Sirk’s unusual, intriguing framings. He often positions the camera between the balusters of the staircase of the home of the Murdoch family, which has the effect of giving the viewer the point of view of a child hesitantly peering through to witness, not being able to look or look away, the fracas in the kitchen. This is one among several impressive directorial moves, which also include a nice balance between sinewy outdoor scenes and engrossing interior ones. While I disagree with a great deal of Andrew Sarris’s evaluation in The American Cinema (the most biggest sore spot for me is his excoriation of John Huston, who if anything at that point in film history deserved a boost), what he says about Sirk does well to describe his deft handling of All I Desire. He writes “the essence of Sirkian cinema is the direct confrontation of all material, however fanciful and improbable. Even in his most dubious projects, Sirk never shrinks away from the ridiculous, but by a full-bodied formal development, his art transcends the ridiculous,

as form comments on content.” Sirk’s persuasive formal surety sets the film above countless other “return of the repressed” family melodramas like 1941’s Ingrid Bergman vehicle Adam Had Four Sons.

Barbara Stanwyck gives a powerful performance in a role that more clearly demonstrates her range than some of her others, in no small part due to the complexity of her character, who is more sympathetic and multi-dimensional than others she assayed. And she is supported by a rock-solid U-I cast including Richard Carlson in a commanding turn as Naomi’s sensitive husband.

All I Desire is one of the Stanwyck films playing as part of the retrospective Ball of Fire at TIFF until April 4, and all are worth the price of admission. For another offbeat and interesting Stanwyck film, check out Gerd Oswald’s 1957 Crime of Passion.

ARTS

The Lover and the Collection

5

A look at two confounding plays by Harold Pinter Christopher Kraumeyer |Staff Writer

many objects used in the transaction of our imposition of will upon one another. In the silence that punctuates verbal manipulation, a reader beings to realize that the truth of Bill’s history with Stella, or the truth of Richard’s true identity and intentions in his relationship with Sarah, are mere details to the real drama that surrounds the paradox of our often wishing to possess people as objects, yet knowing at the same time that they are subjects capable of possessing things and refusing to be possessed themselves. This is a struggle has little use for the truth, at any rate.

A few weeks ago I came into the Kelly Library and, as I’m sure many people do, went to browse the 50-cent-book table before starting my work. Rummaging through the books strewn about the table, my heart leapt suddenly as I caught sight of the bright blue cover of a worn edition of Harold Pinter’s plays The Collection & The Lover, and in an instant purchased the book and resolved to forsake my studying for as long as it took to read at least the first of the plays.

In The Collection, Harry and Bill are visited by a man named James, who claims to be the husband of Stella, a woman that Bill met and slept with while on a business trip. Interestingly, Bill and James appear to strike up an odd friendship, and dance between the emotional and physical leverage they have over each other, the former wielding a weapon of doubt, the latter wielding an intense threat of punishment for his sexual transgressions. Amidst the frenzy of implications, a wave of self-doubt washes over them (and the reader) and removes all clarity or stability they once had in their view of their own lives.

The Lover tells the story of Richard and Sarah, a married couple, who have settled into a very strange understanding that, after Richard goes out for work during the day, Sarah entertains a lover in their house. As the play begins, Richard is beginning to have doubts about continuing to allow Sarah to see the lover in their home, and we later discover that the lover is none other than Richard himself, dressed in different clothing and going by the name “Max”. After satisfying their lust beneath a table at center stage, Max begins

to express interest in Sarah’s husband, and considers staying to meet him, startling Sarah deeply. With the balance in her life unraveling, Sarah becomes more and more alarmed at each man’s willingness to disrupt their arrangement, and the separation between Richard and Max becomes thinner and thinner.

After being awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2005, Harold Pinter gave a lecture entitled “Art, Truth, & Politics.” In distinguishing two kinds of truths that we interact with in our lives, he said this: “Truth in drama is elusive, but the search for it is compulsive. The search for the truth drives the endeavor; the search is your task. More often than not we stumble upon the truth in the dark, colliding with it, or glimpsing the movement of a shape that we think corresponds to the truth, often without realizing it. The real truth, however, is that there is no one truth in dramatic art, but many.”

I think these stories provide perfect examples of this feeling, and through the pervasive silence that lies behind all attempts by the characters to verbally surmount the gulf that lies between one another, and combat the menacing intentions found all about them, Pinter crafts plays that are dense with a haunting spirit of absurdity and total alienation. Through the subtle warping of seemingly common elements of our lives, Pinter uses the emphasis on silence to expose the seething, irrational subconscious lives that are possible within all of us and all the mundane interactions we are faced with, painting a picture of linguistic expression not as an opening into our inner lives, but a strategic defense mechanism to hide and conceal our true intentions and desires.

In Pinter’s world, the truth is not, as so many philosophers have confidently thought, a quality of our static, abstract representations of the world in language, but rather one among

Pinter said little about the thematic interpretations of his plays. Indeed, I found a conventional analysis very difficult, and can’t say that I ever really succeeded. I think its resistance to interpretation is, in a paradoxical way, the real interpretative insight to be had from Pinter’s work, however, for it seems to address the plays in their own way and meet them where they exist naturally. It is impossible to be sure of the meaning of silence, and in our incarnation as one person among many, it is inevitable that so much of our view of the world is bound up in how others reflect our identities back to us, giving them a startling power over us. I think Pinter deals with this constant dynamic in our lives directly, and in a penetrating way reminds us that the most important elements of our experience of life are beyond the calculations of notions of truth and falsity, or the pigeonholing of language, but can only be glimpsed between people and in the vacuum that is possible in the silence there.

In this way, I strongly recommend experiencing Pinter’s work however you can, for I believe that it contains something truly profound.

feature

6

HOW DO YOU GIVE BACK? Volunteering is the perfect supplement to academic work: it's practical, immediate, and engaging. We asked UofT students how they contribute to their community and what they've gained from the experience.

Nicole Crolly Year: 5 College: Victoria POSts: Concurrent Education; English and History Rushing to Sid Smith for lunch during my second year, I saw an ad drawn on the ground for Peace by PEACE. 4 years after that chance discovery, volunteering with the program has given me a new perspective on the power of community. I began my involvement with the student-run charity as a volunteer teaching the peace and conflict resolution curriculum. With each unit, the students became better communicators, and began to explore non-violent solutions to their conflicts. I’ve also had the chance to work on a team of talented executive members dedicated to the program. I believe that the countless hours we’ve invested into running the program is well worth it in the bigger picture. Each of the 2000 students graduating yearly from the program have the skills to transform conflicts into opportunities for growth and understanding. These children have the opportunity to use these skills to better their own relationships and build stronger communities.

Frank (Haolun) Li Year: 2 College: New POSts: Psychology and Philosophy I did a lot of volunteering in high school but upon arriving in university I thought that I would never get the time with the work load. In second year now I'm spending 10+ hours a week at both Peterson and Hasher labs helping with psychology research on cognition and personality.

The thing is while I have less time I seem to get more studying done than ever before. Peterson once said that work, especially work that you find meaningful, gives you the structure to stick to effective routines. For me volunteering has has been the backbone of my confidence and the pring board to new experiences and to great friends.

Thalia Vrantsidis Year: 4 College: Trinity POSts: Psychology, Math, Philosophy "Don't think. Don't censor. Keep your hand moving. You are free to write the worst crap possible. You don't have to share." These are the rules for writing, used as part of "Write Now", a program of weekly writing workshops led by students and for students, that I am lucky enough to be one of the facilitators of this year. Really, writing workshop is not a good name for it – we use free writing and conversation as an excuse to explore ideas, engage in self-reflection, and connect in new and often unexpected ways with life, school, and other people. Each workshop is a wonderful unfolding process, with no goal except to see what happens, yet somehow that opens up a space for

feature

7

Alex Wichert Year: 3 College: St. Mike’s POSts: English and Book and Media Studies I began my work with the Trek for Teens Foundation around this time last year. The organization hosts events throughout the year – ranging from concerts, fashion shows, dance competitions, and an “Amazing-Race”-styled journey around Toronto – to raise funds for homeless youth; as I approach my one-year anniversary with the group, my experience has been both rewarding and enlightening. I’ve had the honour of joining a close-knit and amiable ensemble of likeminded and passionate individuals, I’ve learned about issues surrounding homelessness through discussions and research, and I’ve helped to raise funds for a cause that is, unfortunately, very existent in Toronto. In addition, I’ve seen my public performances and one-on-one discussions inspire youth to take up the cause themselves; the gratification and sincere pleasure one feels from this cannot truly be done justice through anecdotal narrative or testimonial. As I veer into my second lap with the group, I must simply state this: one must always continue to seek progress, or risk becoming static. Even if you do not find your extracurricular soulmate, the act of searching for opportunities and entertaining the thought of involvement – in any capacity – is a worthwhile endeavour. It leads to reflection, assessment and, ultimately, a closer communion with your own character. Enjoy the exploration.

Christina Bezerra Year: 4 College: St. Mike’s POSts: Concurrent Education; English and History In my last year of high school my drama teacher asked if I wanted to take my dramatic personality and turn it into something that helped others. I've always been inspired by his work with people with developmental disabilities and so I jumped at the chance to volunteer at a program he ran for adults with autism. I helped with everyday activities at the program and loved it so much I ended up working there for two years running the drama and music program. This experience made me become so passionate as both a teacher and advocate for those with developmental disabilities. My students taught me so much about life and I even learned how to sign a few words. My favorite part of the experience was going to volunteer everyday and knowing I was going to be accepted and loved unconditionally by my students. Who knew being a loud mouthed teenager could turn into something so amazing? If you are interested in volunteering for a program like the one I worked for visit Vita Community Living Services or Autism Ontario- Toronto Chapter

Melissa Morgado Working as an orientation leader for the IHL division of the Toronto Red Cross means that I have to travel to high schools across the GTA to conduct workshops. I remember travelling to one school in Scarborough where several students had already committed serious offences. I remember one student, in particular, who already had a record because of a fight he'd been in that involved a gun. Before the presentation began, the young man (clearly the joker of the classroom), loudly proclaimed that the Red Cross should just be out there fixing injuries and why are we listening to this presentation, again?

After a presentation on Children Affected by Armed Conflict, which detailed exactly how children around the world are forced to participate in warfare in child armies, this young man approached me looking solemn and thoughtful. He told me about the difficulties he was facing because of his record, and how he was worried about finding a job. He told me that this presentation struck him because he had no idea children were forced to use guns at such a young age. He had no idea that things could get so out of hand in another country. He also told me he'd like to volunteer for the Red Cross - if we would have him - so that he could get involved with the type of work we do. I gave him the information he needed, and watched him smile genuinely for the first time that day.

Jessica Frasca Year: 1 POSts: TBD My first year of university has been great especially being part of the Out of the Cold program.

The program happens every Tuesday located in the basement of St. Basil’s Church. It consists of many volunteers who are enthusiastic to cook, clean and serve food to the patrons. I love seeing the smiles on the faces of the many patrons when they receive their yummy sandwiches and hot soup. The place provides a sociable environment for both the volunteers and those who benefit from the service provided. The patrons come in weekly with stories and the events that happened since their last meal at the church.

The program has been running for many years. I look forward to the future and still being part of this program.

Deborah Benhamu Year: 2 College: University POSts: Economics, Finance When I started my first year at UofT I had what I thought was a bullet proof plan to succeed in university. During my first year I was going to dedicate of all my time to my academics, and when I had that figured out, I would start to do some volunteering. As you may suspect, this wasn't the best approach, but it took me until second year to figure this out. Don’t get me wrong, my efforts got me what I thought was all I wanted, a nice looking GPA. But at the end of the day, as I’m sure you’ve all heard, that’s not all of what matters. We are in ‘our prime years and we will remember these days for the rest of our lives’ and truthfully, I don’t want that memory only to be late nights at Robarts. During my second year, I made it a focus to find a balance between my academics and my extracurriculars. Volunteering has actually helped me enjoy what I study even more!

8

Capitulated

Special

Things we found in the office Louis Train|Editor-in-chief The office of The Mike was a disgrace. Past mastheads had left behind years of dirt and detritus and we, the current masthead, could have left it alone

as well. But we want to do things right, so for the past month we’ve been cleaning, mopping, moving, sorting, and filing.

We were surprised to find in one of our dusty files a series of heated letters exchanged over the course of one year, from 1989-90. They start when Gays and Lesbians at UofT, the precursor to organizations like LGBTOUT, submitted an ad for a recurring party called Homo Hop to The Mike. To find out how The Mike reacted and what came next you can read the snippets from the letters below.

For context: Andrew Davidson became the chair of GLAUT in 1989. He was also a St. Mike’s student. Davidson challenged SMC several times over the coming year; he believed that the college’s stance on homosexuality had “little to do with scripture, and rather a lot to do with a convenient appropriation of social justice”.

Greg McFarlane was the chair of The Mike Publications, Inc. The Mike was, as it still is, a corporation separate from St. Michael’s College. McFarlane’s decisions were made without instruction from higher authority.

When a second Homo Hop ad was rejected by The Mike the matter was brought to the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario. The Mike eventually agreed to run ads for the event and recalled 6000 copies of the most recent issue from which they had been omitted.

Greg McFarlane resigned, saying that he felt that he had betrayed St. Michael's College.

Andrew Davidson transferred to a different college.

special

9

Another surprise find in the office excavation: a very early edition of The Mike, from 1948. This issue is only two pages, and consists mostly of updates about events on campus. To help you stay in the loop:

Torontonensis was the yearbook of the University of Toronto, which is also called "Universitas Torontonensis" in Latin.

Miss Trudie Carlisle never found great fame as a singer. The 3 act play in Brennan Hall was The Silver Cord by Sidney Howard. The director was Henry Kaplan, who in the next decade would befriend and direct Kate Reid, one of the first great actresses of Canadian stage.

Details of Nancy McCormick's trip to Europe have been lost.

election

10

SMCSU Votes

Executive Candidates Talk With The Mike

The Candidates:

Slate 1

Brian Rankin (President) POSt: 4th year English Specialist with a Minor in Book and Media Studies SMCSU History: 3rd year; Currently Communications Commissioner Favorite flavor of Ice Cream: Cherry Garcia from Ben and Jerry’s Kevin Gallardo (Vice President) POSt: 4th year Psychology and Sociology Double Major SMCSU History: 1st year; Currently Athletics Commissioner Favorite flavor of Ice Cream: Chocolate Peanut Butter

Slate 2 Stefan Squazzin (President) POSt: 3rd year Criminology and Political Science Double Major SMCSU History: 2rd year; Currently Community Life Commissioner Favorite flavor of Ice Cream: Chocolate Joseph Crimi (Vice President) POSt: 3rd year Sociology Major SMCSU History: 3rd year; Currently Double Blue Commissioner Favorite flavor of Ice Cream: Vanilla

election

11

The Questions: What have you accomplished so far as part of SMCSU or in other roles on campus?

Brian: Launched SMCSU’s Facebook page in his first year in communications, which has helped council advertise events and communicate with students. Also strived to desexualize the advertisements for this year’s club events.

Kevin: Helped to repair relationships with U of T intramurals. John Robb, U of T’s intramural manager noted SMC’s declining presence in intramurals on campus earlier in the year, but has recently said St. Mike’s is getting back on track. Also played a large role in the acquisition of new jerseys for teams.

Stefan: After spending a year on general council, has managed Community Life events including (amongst other things) commuter appreciation week, St. Patrick’s Day in Brennan, and the end of year BBQ. Also a member of the Off-Campus Students Association, where individuals responsible for community events from each college’s council organize sessions across campus to increase colleges’ exposure and to provide assistance for student-related issues.

Joseph: Has been on 3 different commissions (Athletics, Community Life, and Double Blue) and has organized the athletic banquet, introduced the now recurring end of year barbeque, and planned formal which sold out in record time this year. Also been involved in the planning of U of T Winter Fest for the past 2 years, as part of his role as Social Chair.

What do you think the largest issues are with SMCSU? Brian & Kevin: SMCSU seems to have reached a plateau and the events and activities offered have remained relatively unchanged. Also, there’s a concern that if events never happened, the student body would remain silent, as the cliquey nature of council has led to a separation from the rest of the student body.

Additionally, there is more St. Mike’s can do for mental health by providing both better resources and better access to information for students.

Stefan & Joseph: Currently council has a reputation for being responsible for planning events mainly related to fun and entertainment. SMCSU’s roles in more serious initiatives including those related to mental health suffer from a lack of exposure. In addition, council serves as a bridge between the administration’s resources and students, but many students don’t take advantage of this service. Lastly, the lack of involvement of the wider SMC community in council needs to be addressed.

What would you like to change, and how do you plan to accomplish your goals?

Brian & Kevin: Would like to see clubs at SMC take on a larger role in the student experience. Due to a SMCSU budget that hasn’t been adjusted for inflation in over 30 years, clubs have been unable to access adequate funding. Clubs have the ability to further the reach of council, and are able to run special events (e.g. Italian dinners or Celtic parties) better than SMCSU could on its own. In addition to improving access to funds, workshops run through the Education and Government Commission, aimed at informing students on how to create new clubs, would help enhance the presence of clubs at SMC. To do this, the budget, which has remained relatively unchanged in recent years, will need to be restructured to find efficiencies and allocate money more effectively.

Stefan & Joseph: Are hoping to increase community involvement in SMCSU and political engagement amongst young voters. Establishing committees outside of council to help run events will allow students to become involved in SMCSU and receive a co-curricular credit without being exposed to all the pressures associated with being a full time member. In addition, heightened use of surveys and online tools will be used to gather both ideas and feedback regarding events. In terms of political engagement, organizing events where politicians speak to students are aimed at increasing voter turnout amongst young adults, especially for the upcoming federal election.

You can find more detailed information on the candidates’ platforms on Facebook by searching their respective names.

LIVING

1212 Trek For Teens

Volunteer at these end of semester events Alex Wichert|Staff Writer Looking for ways to get involved on campus and help out a worthy cause?

Trek for Teens will be hosting a concert in Brennan Hall. Come out on Saturday, March 28th from 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM for live music, free food, and an opportunity to support homeless youth initiatives. The top two performers receive studio time with Rehearsal Factory and you can help your favourite band win by posting about them on Facebook and Twitter!

That may cap off March, but April begins with another great event! The Trek for Teens Youth Homelessness Conference is being held on April 9th, 2015, in Muzzo Family Alumni Hall. The conference is designed to educate youth on issues surrounding youth homelessness, as well as introduce youth to the idea of service learning and leadership. The conference will include several key elements to engage students including a keynote speaker, breakout workshops with debrief, a Charity Fair, and a Scavenger Hunt. To be eligible for the conference, one must be in grade seven or eight. However, older students can still get involved as volunteers and help facilitate activities!

For information about these events or Trek for Teens, head to facebook.com/trekforteens or trekforteens.com Trek for Teens is a not-for-profit organization composed mainly of students affiliated with the University of Toronto. The foundation organizes coffee houses, concerts, fashion shows, dance competitions, and high school events with all proceeds going to homeless youth shelters Horizons for Youth, Youth Without Shelters, and Covenant House Toronto. Trek for Teens is proud to be writing articles in The Mike to bring you information on youth homelessness, upcoming volunteer opportunities, and Trek for Teens events.

Blend And Go

Mix and match a smoothie for the go Mikaela Allan|Staff Writer

Have a daunting day ahead of you? No time to sit down for lunch? No problem! Make a smoothie that has more vitamins and macronutrients than any boring ham sandwich ever would.

The perfect nutritious smoothie contains 4 simple ingredient bases: A liquid base, to get your blender going. Milk is a source of healthy fats and proteins. Juice is another option, but be weary of the sugar content.

Protein; the key to a filling smoothie. Protein can’t be turned to fat, and it helps maintain your muscle mass and resting metabolism. A great source of protein is Greek yogurt; a cup can provide you with 15g of it!

Healthy fat is another important part of the smoothie. The breakdown of fats releases more energy than protein or carbohydrates. Healthy, polyunsaturated fats also help our bodies absorb essential vitamins and lower our levels of bad cholesterol. Avocado and nuts are great sources of healthy fats. Flaxseed and chia seeds are another source of healthy fat and are critical for brain health; add a spoonful to any smoothie.

Lastly, high fiber carbohydrates. Our bodies can access carbohydrates quickly for an instant boost of energy, and fiber is an excellent tool to help with digestion. Fruits and vegetables are a source of high fiber carbohydrates as well as essential vitamins. Blending your fruits and vegetables, with the peel, ensures that you get the full health benefits.

Ready to start making the perfect smoothie?

Are you bold enough to go green?

2 cups spinach leaves 1 pear or apple 15 grapes (red or green; depending on if you prefer sweet or sour) ¾ cup of Greek yogurt (that’s 3-4 heaping spoonfuls) Half an avocado 1-2 tablespoons of fresh limejuice * TIPS: Add some water if you find it too thick.

The added fruit, especially the grapes, help curb the taste of the spinach, don’t be scared go green and feel healthy!

Woke up late, need breakfast to go?

7 almonds 1 apple 1 banana ¾ cup Greek yogurt ½ cup of skim milk ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon TIPS: You can add in honey to increase the sweetness.

Dependent on the power of your blender, you may need to chop the ingredients into small pieces. Smoothies blend easier if you add the liquid and light ingredients first; you can also blend the ingredients in stages.

Create your own ingredient combinations to make smoothies that ensure you are getting a well-balanced meal. Many stores, including Starbucks, sell tall cups with lids and a straw to make it easy for you to take your smoothie with you anywhere. Add in ice cubes to your smoothie and enjoy having a full meal while you are on the go!

LIVING

Spring Trends You Need To Try Now Christina Bezerra|Staff Writer The minute the first day of spring rolled around you can bet your bottom dollar thatI pulled out my cropped pants and threw away my bulky winter coat. I then immediately ran back inside to put on some pants and a parka like a normal Canadian.

The spring sunshine is the reason for my trust issues. With a shine so bright and winter temperatures what’s a girl to wear? Well, lucky for you I’m back with some seasonal fashion tips to help you look as weather stable as possible.

1. Invest in some wellies (rain boots)! I wish someone told me this in first year because swimming through the Queens Park Pond during April showers is no fun. A tall bright Wellie is sure to make you look fashionable and keep you from getting trench foot during your walk across campus.

2. A spring jacket is essential for those cool April mornings. Leather is major trend, which will be around for a long time, so you can be sure to get your moneys worth. Vegan leather (pleather) is also a great alternative. With all types of colours and patterns it’s hard t go wrong with a motto style jacket to complete any day or night outfit. Plus you’ll look extremely cool, like Sandy at the end of Grease cool.

3. Pixie pants are my personal spring staple. I tend to wear them year round because the crop fits me perfectly as a pant but, for the ladies who are over five feet, cropped pants are a great way to show some ankle and they look great with a pair of booties or sneaker. Please try them, you will become obsessed.

Hopefully these tips ease the stress of choosing how to deal with mother nature’s deceiving sunshine. Now throw those snow boots to the curb and show off some bright colours!

#strikein5words Louis Train|Editor-in-Chief If I could only make one complaint about the picketers outside my classes, it would be that they don't enunciate well enough. Even if I don't agree with everything being chanted, I'd at least like to be able to know what follows after "One! Two! Three! Four!" (The unnecessary parts of the rhyme always seem to be the clearest).

As we could have expected coming from the academy, this strike has been all about language and careful word choices.

Strikers accuse the University of spreading "propaganda", which it does. Irate undergraduates say that they're being "held hostage".

A striking instructor of mine referred to the University's recent decision to seek binding arbitration as "refusing to negotiate".

I can go on: Everyone, even the University, is careful to call the strike "legal", as if our unhappiness has a Latin name. A fellow student in my cancelled philosophy class greeted me on the sidewalk with, "Comrade! Are you going to take the Credit/ No Credit?"

Everyone has something to say about the strike, and we challenged our readers to say it it with extreme brevity. Here's the strike in 5 words, as presented by followers of @readthemike.

13

Opinion

14 Frat Houses

An alternative viewpoint Kevin Pulwer| Staff Writer The past events at Penn State University and the University of Oklahoma have been appalling, to say the least. From the exploitation and abuse of incapacitated women, to the cult-like racist display toward black students, it makes one wonder where exactly these university’s two fraternities went wrong. It is, however, great to see that each respective university is opposed to this type of behavior, and is implementing necessary expulsions and legal apprehension.

Why exactly these students felt they could record and distribute such stupidity is, beyond a doubt, very concerning. What was it about organized sexual harassment and racial prejudice that seemed so appealing within these settings? Well, what I can gather is that students wouldn’t be posting this stuff online if they didn't think it was wrong in the first place. Whatever kind of community these two fraternities believed in cultivating definitely wasn't one of respect or moral standing. This brings into question the leadership and recruitment ideology built among these two frats. One of the two organizations has already been notorious for racial prejudice among its other chapters over the years: the now-infamous Sigma Alpha Epsilon. Celebrating “Cripmas” to hosting “jungle” parties and dressing up in black face and other such nonsense, Sigma Alpha Epsilon has had a history and passion for bigotry .

It’s good someone spoke out. It’s good these guys got busted. Students come to university to get educated. If this is the kind of stuff going on behind the doors of a frat you know it’s time someone got “schooled”.

A rush recruitment poster for Sigma Alpha Epsilon

The ISIS Saga Continues

Canada's involvement against ISIS raises important questions about the history of the terrorist group and Canada's military involvement Saad Shah | Staff Writer

Canada’s involvement against ISIS raises important questions about the history of the terrorist group and Canada’s military involvement Since October 2014, Canada has provided military assistance and advisory to the Iraqi forces to combat the growing threat of ISIS. However, an interesting relationship has developed between Canada’s involvement against ISIS and the feelings expressed by ISIS towards the Canadian government in particular.

Their statements make their animosity towards Canadians in general fairly obvious.

The Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), who now call themselves IS (Islamic State) is a terrorist organization which, in the midst of the civil war in Syria and general unrest in the region, has taken over vast swaths of territory in Iraq and Syria and is trying to establish uncontested rule by presenting a barbaric ideology. Their ideology, to which they refer as Sharia law, is in fact quite the opposite to the true essence of Sharia law that encompasses peace and the value for human life. According to some Canadian Muslim organizations, they are not part of the religion in anyway. For example “ISIS is NOT Muslim,” reads a statement from the Islamic Supreme Council of Canada and the Muslims Against Terrorism: “They are the impostors who have killed thousands of Muslims in Syria and Iraq.”

However, the spokesman for the Islamic State called for attacks on Canadians last year in an apparent attempt to deter members of the military alliance that has formed to challenge the terrorist group. “Rely upon Allah, and kill him in any manner or way however it may be.

Do not ask for anyone’s advice and do not seek anyone’s verdict. Kill the disbeliever whether he is civilian or military, for they have the same ruling,” he said.

Referring to Canadians in specific, he continued: “You will not feel secure even in your bedrooms. You will pay the price when this crusade of yours collapses, and thereafter we will strike you in your homeland, and you will never be able to harm anyone afterwards.”

Clearly, these are very threatening messages which have sounded alarm in Ottawa. In light of this highly volatile situation, the Prime Minister Harper dispatched a handful of Canadian Special Operation Forces (CANSOF) to the region.

It’s interesting to note that instead of deploying a regular infantry, Canada deployed Special Operations Forces whose main mission is to guide and offer expertise to the local forces. Using the most experienced and most skills advisors, Canada can offer more valuable assistance in the effort against ISIS while keeping involvement limited. This could possibly be because of the upcoming federal elections; a very heavy involvement might sway election results. However, given the escalation of the crisis, CANSOF troops have to spend twenty percent of their time on the front line by taking part in firefighting against the IS operatives.

Nonetheless, it is understood that if troops are sent to a region where combat can be reasonably expected and they have to call in airstrikes to destroy enemy positions, CANSOF troops need to defend themselves.

An Ipsos Reid Poll last year determined that 64% of Canadians were supportive of military intervention against IS. The fact that CANSOF troops had to intensify their level of involvement after arriving in the warstricken region and the threats issued by the IS against Canada are both strong reasons for the government to take stricter action to protect not only Canada, but overall peace and security in the region.

Opinion

Fraternities Under Scrutiny

15

Sigma Alpha Epsilon and Kappa Delta Rho make headlines for racist chant video

Jessica Turner|Staff Writer Fraternities have come under extreme scrutiny in recent news, including the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity of the University of Oklahoma for their racist chant video that was uploaded to social media, resulting in the expulsion of several students and the closure of the fraternity house. Another incident, involving the circulation of nude and revealing photos of women on a Facebook page created by members of the Kappa Delta Rho house at Penn State, has people questioning the legitimacy of fraternities: is it about brotherhood or power?

I agree that most fraternities are not after the fame that comes with being a member of an elusive group, but given the recent occurrences concerning misconduct in fraternities, I think it is appropriate to examine how these instances happen. Are fraternities given too much power?

Does their prestige and historical foundation give them too much leeway? Amidst these accusations from the University of Oklahoma and Penn State, it is essential we closely look at what goes on inside fraternities and how these atrocities are committed under the noses of

so many unwitting officials.

It is widely known that getting into most fraternities is tough.

While some may deny, most go through hazing and embarrassing rituals that allow the fellow members to develop trust in their brothers, establishing an unbreakable bond. This often blurs the line between what is a practiced tradition and what is put in place to purely degrade others. This power that older members hold over new pledges gives them an elite status, allowing them to do whatever is necessary to whip the pledges into shape. Incidents of extreme hazing are not new to the brotherhoods, with some resulting in lawsuits and charges. How far is too far?

Can these incidences simply be placed under the category of ‘just having fun’? It is certainly hard to differentiate.

Regarding the cases of Sigma Alpha Epsilon and Kappa Delta Rho, it is evident that both fraternities assumed an authoritarian role. They were highly regarded in their respective universities and took pride in this position, but does this position create immunity for their actions?

Sigma Alpha Epsilon state that

Two men carry speakers from the closed Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity on March 10/ © AP the racist chant was not created by them, but taught to them. Does this mean racial discrimination is supported by the Sigma Alpha Epsilon chapter? The headquarters of Sigma Alpha Epsilon say no. So, where do these ideologies come from? It is possible they come from generations of discriminatory members, and with the power they hold, they can easily enforce this

new ideology on the pledges; they don’t want to be kicked out, so they go along.

It is difficult to identify a rotten seed amidst an orchard, and this is true for any institution in society.

Is the termination of all fraternities the answer? Definitely not. But it is important we analyze and understand these cases for what they are: a blatant abuse of power.

In a position of influence, it is easy for an innocent individual to become wrapped up in a scandal without noticing or being afraid to speak up, and I am sure that is the case for some members in both fraternities. To solve these instances we must stop and think, how much power is too much?

Free At Last

fun and productive ways to spend this summer Anastasyia Maryukova| Staff Writer It’s that time of year again! In just a few short weeks, we will enter the most exciting and rewarding phase of the year with great relief and exhilaration. For many people, summer represents the source of joy, associated with leisure, long walks in nature, and luminous sunshine. We welcome this season with open arms and grateful hearts. We start preparing for it in advance, planning trips to get us through cold winter months and dreaming of beaches and clear skies. Anxiously awaiting warmer weather and triumphantly flipping calendar pages, we finally approach the beginning of this marvelous season.

If you are like me and want to get the most out of your summer, I thought I would share some of my favorite ways to spend long and bright summer days. For starters, I enjoy being outdoors; it gives me energy and helps me feel in harmony with myself and with the world. There are various activities you can do out in nature: hiking, running, cycling, swimming, canoeing-you name it. You can kill two birds with one stone: absorb that vitamin D and concomitantly increase your fitness levels!

For me, summer is the best time to improve my physical health. However, I also like to tackle my mental and emotional well-being. After several months of a fast-paced and stressful academic life, I like to find my centre. I am an innate scholar, and I often bury my nose in books during the summer. Reading for pleasure is one of my essential summer pastimes. Pick that book you’ve always wanted to read and temporarily disconnect yourself from the world, perusing the pages under the stars. You might emerge from this fictional world with a newfound perspective and self-understanding. Also, reading will surely pass the time and keep your mind occupied.

Now, with our minds engaged, we can get our emotions in check. It is not surprising that many people feel happier when they see beautiful sunsets and gleaming waters. It is almost like nature reaches out to us, waiting for our smile. We eagerly smile back, but sometimes we need a little incentive to turn that frown upside down. The good news is: nature understands. I believe in nature’s rejuvenating and healing powers. I often like to go down to a deserted lake and sit quietly, listening to the slow movement of the waves. Then I pick little rocks and throw them into the water, watching them ripple and disappear. I do that repeatedly for some time, and suddenly I realize that my problems, like those disappearing rocks, can dissolve. I just need to let them go. Being in nature always reminds me of my strength and it grants me inner peace.

If you don’t have a lake nearby, you can alternatively climb a mountain or walk a trail. The added challenge will help you feel powerful, leading to a sense of control and accomplishment. Physical activity does not have to be exhausting; it can be self- restoring! No matter what plans you might have for the summer, remember to enjoy the sunshine and relax!