December 9, 2015

THE TIE THAT BINDS WILFRID LAURIER UNIVERSITY SINCE 1926

VOLUME 56, ISSUE 16 · DECEMBER 9, 2015

ROCKIN’ AROUND LAURIER

BOARD REVIEWS

TOP FIVE: CAMPUS

TOP FIVE: LOCAL

2015 IN REVIEW

TOP 10: SPORTS

Find out how your elected representatives are doing

The top moments in campus news for 2015

The most memorable events in 2015 for local news

Check out the staples in popular culture in 2015

The exciting moments in sports captured on one page

Campus, pages 5-7

Campus, page 3

Local, page 10

Features, pages 12-13

Sports, page 24

PHOTOS BY WILL HUANG/PHOTO EDITOR PHOTO MANIPULATION BY LENA YANG/CREATIVE DIRECTOR

2 •

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2015

VOCAL CORD

What is your biggest regret of the year?

@cordnews

The Cord

CordNews

@cordwlusp

PHOTO OF THE WEEK

“Not getting a second job during the summer.”

–Tyler VanHerzele, fifthyear concurrent education

ANDREAS PATSIAOUROS/PHOTO EDITOR

Rabbi Moshe Goldman holds a memorial gathering at the Chabad on December 3 in memory of Gabriel ‘Gaby’ Barsky, who passed away December 2.

“Making promises I couldn’t keep,” –Jordan Gronkowski, thirdyear business

“Taking BU111.”

–Emma Richards, firstyear communications

“Not taking enough classes.”

–Emily Litvak, third-year communcations and psychology

“To hold onto people I should have let go of long ago.”

–Kirsten Viney, secondyear biology Compiled by Maddy Cutts Photos by Jessica Dik NEXT ISSUE: JANUARY 6, 2016

CORD STAFF EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Shelby Blackley sblackley@thecord.ca CREATIVE DIRECTOR Lena Yang lyang@thecord.ca CREATIVE DIRECTOR Joshua Awolade jawolade@thecord.ca MULTIMEDIA DIRECTOR Mynt Marsellus mmarsellus@thecord.ca

Bag O’ Crime

HAPPY

Location: Dr. Alvin Woods Building Reported: Wednesday, December 02, 2015 @ 12:28 p.m.

SCS was notified by a faculty member that she believed her wallet had been stolen from her purse while at the academic building. The faculty member believed the wallet had been taken between 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. while the purse was left unattended. Later in the day the faculty member contacted SCS again to advise that her wallet had been located and turned into an office space at the DAWB. Location: Clara Conrad Residence Reported: Thursday, December 03, 2015 @ 12:52 p.m.

SCS investigated a report of drug use by three female students outside of the student residence. The students were found to be in possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia. The students will be addressed through Residence Life in lieu of charges.

Location: Nils Willison Hall Reported: Thursday, December 03, 2015 @ 11:12 p.m.

SCS investigated a broken window at the student residence. A student had slipped while running and fallen into the window causing the damage. The student was treated by ERT for several cuts to his leg and the window was repaired.

Location: Off Campus Reported: Saturday, December 05, 2015 @ 12:48 a.m.

SCS officers assisted a WRPS officer dealing with two males at the intersection of Bricker Ave. and Albert St. Both males were identified as Laurier students. They were both arrested by WRPS for several different offences and kept in police custody overnight.

CAMPUS NEWS EDITOR Kaitlyn Severin kseverin@thecord.ca

GRAPHICS EDITOR Vacant

LOCAL NEWS EDITOR Erika Ymana eymana@thecord.ca

PHOTO EDITOR Andreas Patsiaouros apatsiaouros@thecord. ca

FEATURES EDITOR Bethany Bowles bbowles@thecord.ca

PHOTO EDITOR Will Huang whuang@thecord.ca

ARTS & LIFE EDITOR Zach Guitor zguitor@thecord.ca

VIDEO EDITOR Brian Phillips bphillips@thecord.ca

OPINION EDITOR Mitchell Consky mconsky@thecord.ca

LEAD REPORTER Maddy Cutts mcutts@thecord.ca

SPORTS EDITOR Drew Yates dyates@thecord.ca

LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER Jessica Dik jdik@thecord.ca

Dear Life

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SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR Kira Gelbard kgelbard@thecord.ca

CONTRIBUTORS Manjot Bhullar Kanwar Brar Mira Busscher Ryan Culley Killian Cuppage Emilia Curcic Brittany Ditizio Nicole Gatchene Fani Hsieh Safina Husein Daniel Johnson

Brigitte Kloss Kyle McCord Heather McLeod Nabiha Noorani Christian Paron Josh Peters Tarique Plummer Fatima Soomro Caroline Spicer Jessi Wood

EDITOR’S CHOICE: Borrowed buddhism by Zach Guitor

EDITOR’S CHOICE ONLINE: #NotMyLaurier provides a safe space for free speech

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES All advertising inquiries can be directed to Care Schummer at care.schummer@wlusp.com or 519-884-0710 ext. 3560.

COLOPHON The Cord is the official student newspaper of the Wilfrid Laurier University community.

Started in 1926 as the College Cord, The Cord is an editorially independent newspaper published by Wilfrid Laurier University Student Publications, Waterloo, a corporation without share capital. WLUSP is governed by its board of directors.

Opinions expressed within The Cord are those of the author and do not necessarily refl ect those of the editorial board, The Cord, WLUSP, WLU or CanWeb Printing Inc. All content appearing in The Cord bears the copyright expressly of their creator(s) and may not be used without written consent.

The Cord is created using Macintosh computers running OS X 10.10 using Adobe Creative Cloud. Canon cameras are used for principal photography.

The Cord has been a proud member of the Ontario Press Council since 2006. Any unsatisfied complaints can be sent to the council at info@ ontpress.com.

The Cord’s circulation for a normal Wednesday issue is 6,000 copies and enjoys a readership of over 10,000.

Cord subscription rates are $20.00 per term for addresses within Canada.

The Cord has been a proud member of the Canadian University Press (CUP) since 2004.

Dear @PeerConnectWLU, Can you please stop it with the Tumblr-esque Facebook posts.

Focus on your campaigns and not on spamming my newsfeed. I’m trying to support your committee by liking your page but you’re annoying the shit out of me. It feels like I’m in Grade 9 instead of third year.

Sincerely,

Annoyed

THE CORD

SENIOR COPY EDITOR Caitlyn Sageman csageman@thecord.ca

Dear Life is your opportunity to write a letter to your life, allowing you to vent your anger with life’s little frustrations in a completely public forum.

All submissions to Dear Life are anonymous, should be no longer than 100 words and must be addressed to your life. Submissions can be sent to dearlife@thecord.ca no later than Monday at noon each week.

Dear Life, Good… Good. Let the hate flow through you.

Sincerely, The Dark Side Dear Life, Crying in the shower is trippy, you can’t tell the difference between the water and the tears Sincerely, let me be your hero Dear Life, go to bed with an itchy butt Sincerely, wake up with a stinky finger Dear Laurier ICT, You’ve been so much better lately than the first three years of my degree. But you decided to do a server switch for eduroam right at the end of term when every person needs consistent internet on campus. Why u do dis? Das dumb Sincerely, Pls ICT pls

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

The staff of The Cord shall uphold all commonly held ethical conventions of journalism. When an error of omission or of commission has occurred, that error shall be acknowledged promptly. When statements are made that are critical of an individual, or an organization, we shall give those affected the opportunity to reply at the earliest time possible. Ethical journalism requires impartiality, and consequently conflicts of interest and the appearance of conflicts of interest will be avoided by all staff.

The only limits of any newspaper are those of the world around it, and so The Cord will attempt to cover its world with a special focus on Wilfrid Laurier University, and the community of Kitchener-Waterloo, and with a special ear to the concerns of the students of Wilfrid Laurier University.

Ultimately, The Cord will be bound by neither philosophy nor geography in its mandate.

The Cord has an obligation to foster

freedom of the press and freedom of speech. This obligation is best fulfilled when debate and dissent are encouraged, both in the internal workings of the paper, and through The Cord’s contact with the student body.

The Cord will always attempt to do what is right, with fear of neither repercussions, nor retaliation. The purpose of the student press is to act as an agent of social awareness, and so shall conduct the affairs of our newspaper.

Quote of the week: “Now all we need to do is circumsize Andy and we’ll be good!”

- Opinion Editor Mitchell Consky after we celebrated the third day of Hanukkah in the office

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2015

Campus

• 3 CAMPUS NEWS EDITOR KAITLYN SEVERIN kseverin@thecord.ca

REVIEW

BEST IN CAMPUS 2015 FILE PHOTOS BY JESSICA DIK/LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER, WILL HUANG/PHOTO EDITOR, ANDREAS PATSIAOUROS/PHOTO EDITOR

Matthews elected

Staff jobs eliminated

Sexual assault

Statues debate

Laurier lockdown

After an eventful month of campaigning, debates and speeches, Olivia Matthews won the title of Wilfrid Laurier University Students’ Union president for the 2015-16 fiscal year.

Running against candidates Frank Cirinna and Dave Patterson, who later withdrew from the race, Matthews was victorious with an impressive 72.74 per cent of the vote.

Although Matthews had the highest vote total for a president-elect at Laurier, student turnout for voting was 24.2 per cent, a decrease from the 25.57 per cent turnout for the 2014-15 election. Laurier’s Brantford campus also had a reason to celebrate — a third of the Students’ Union board of directors were Brantford students, the highest ever. Since becoming president, Matthews has advocated for students both in and out of the Laurier community.

On March 10, students and faculty were enraged to find out 22 jobs were removed from Laurier’s support and staff management, representing two per cent of the school’s budget.

According to an email sent out to the Laurier community, there was a reduction in faculty positions as a result of a voluntary retirement program, as well as the number of teaching assignments and courses available to contract academic staff.

On the same day, enraged faculty and staff came to the Concourse to voice their opinions on the matter.

Afterwards, students occupied the Students’ Union office to voice their concerns, where both groups met to talk about the cuts. In the weeks after, university administration and Laurier students met to discuss the budget cuts and its influence on the community.

This past summer, Justice Elliot Allen criticized Laurier for their handling of a 2013 case, in which a former Laurier student sexually assaulted a female student in her dorm room.

The perpetrator, Adam Hughes, was allowed to continue his studies while facing allegations until he was sentenced to 18 months in jail and three years probation. In early June the university released two statements saying they were sure the perpetrator would have no contact with the survivor while continuing to study and asserted support was extended to her. It was learned Hughes continued his studies at Laurier for 28 months between the crime and his conviction. Since then, there have been many ongoing committees and associations to demolish sexual violence, including the Gendered Violence Task Force.

No one could have predicted the debate to end all debates at Wilfrid Laurier University would involve statues of former prime ministers.

On June 30, the university unveiled a statue of Prime Minister John A. Macdonald, the projected first of the 22 statues, which received negative and positive feedback from Laurier students, staff and faculty.

Since the unveiling, two petitions were created as a response —“Stop the Statues Project” and “Continue the Statues Project.”

In October, the university Senate voted to recommend a cancellation of the project, leading to more debates on the outcome of the statues. On November 5, president Max Blouw created the special advisory committee to come up with a recommendation on how the project should move forward.

After a post threatening the Science building was uploaded to the site 4Chan.org on Oct. 16 at 6 a.m., the FBI and Crime Stoppers alerted the Waterloo Regional Police Service and Special Constable Services to lockdown the university.

The post featured an image of a frog holding a gun, which said, “Don’t go to laurier science building hall tomorrow. happening thread will be posted in the morning.”

After much investigation, the lockdown was lifted at 11:30 a.m. the same day. With the help of the RCMP, the university confirmed police would continue to investigate the anonymous threat.

The next day, Daniel Ransem, a UK resident with no affiliation to the university, was confirmed as the poster and later confessed he wrote the post as an “inside running joke.”

WORDS BY KAITLYN SEVERIN

HOLIDAYS

Finding home at Laurier for the holidays Laurier international students must decide on whether or not to go home for the holiday break NICOLE GATCHENE STAFF WRITER

For international students, holidays are not an easy time of year. It requires paperwork, expenses and above all, timeless planning.

With many students not finishing until December 23 this year, the holiday break only lasts 11 days before students must return to the university. “[Holidays are] only two weeks off from school, it’s not really worth it to spend that much money to fly half way around the world to go back home,” said Zach Pang, a third-year international student at Laurier.

According to Pang, if he plans on going home to China, he will have to plan two to three months ahead so he can get the best price on plane tickets.

For students who need to renew study permits and acquire visas so they can re-enter Canada after going home, they need to plan at least four to five months in advance.

“More of them end up spending time here than I think want to … We definitely have a handful of students

“More of them end up spending time here than I think want to.”

-Anna Done Choudhury, senior international student advisor

FANI HSIEH/GRAPHIC ARTIST

every year who could travel but can’t because of the visa issues,” said Anna Done Choudhury, senior international student advisor.

Exams also influence what international students are able to do for the holidays.

“The exams are the worst … they release the exam schedule really late,

which makes it impossible to make any plans before hand,” said Ivy Xu, a second-year international student.

Homesickness is also very common among first-year international students who may not be accustomed to different traditions.

“Chinese students some of them, they’re missing Spring Festival [in

January] … [Christmas] emphasizes the fact that they’re not going to be with their family for the most important holiday of the year for them,” said Choudhury.

International students may not travel because of financial issues as well, making it hard for them to go back and forth between home and school.

“They’ll tell their parents they don’t want to come or they’re too busy, but it’s really because they’re trying to save their parents the [financial] burden,” Choudhury explained.

Fortunately, there are solutions for students to connect with their

families if travelling is not an option.

Pang said he can Skype his family and they would eat in front of the camera to eat with him.

To get students into the holiday spirit, Laurier International has been running holiday-themed activities throughout December, including ornament and tree decorating.

For students who plan on staying in Waterloo, Laurier International is organizing activities for international students to engage in, though domestic students who are alone for the holidays are also invited to participate.

For its third year, Laurier International will be running the Holiday Host Program where two or more students are matched with Laurier faculty or staff who host them for a meal.

The goal is to show international students how the holidays are celebrated in Canada. “[It’s] just getting people into groups so they’re not isolated or feeling lonely around this time,” said Candace Stewart-Smith, an international student academic transition advisor.

4 • CAMPUS NEWS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2015

RALLY

CUPE raises staff support MADDY CUTTS LEAD REPORTER

A rally was held on Thursday, December 3, at Wilfrid Laurier University’s Waterloo campus by the Canadian Union of Public Employees.

Their mission was to raise support for their custodial staff while they are in the midst of contract renegotiations with the university.

Both sides were in discussions throughout the month of October, which led to two meetings with a conciliator to help along the process at the end of November.

According to the university, it is currently facing unsustainably high costs with regards to custodial services, a situation it would like to see amended through new contracts with CUPE. Its primary points in renegotiation involve what it sees as high absenteeism and shift inflexibility.

“The average number of our custodial sick days, it’s more than double that of any Laurier employee group and it’s more than double the Ontario average,” said Kevin Crowley, director of communications and public affairs.

“We also would like to address shift flexibility. What we’re seeing is in the current contract, there’s caps on the number of CUPE custodians that would work an evening shift, a night shift and a weekend shift. We’d like to change that language because what it’s forcing us to do is to bring in additional custodians on overtime in

“We are a family here, and we want to keep our family here, and by contracting out you’re dismantling the family.”

-Lynette Brubacher, CUPE custodian and L926 steward

order to get the work done.”

The issues in absenteeism however are not so obvious to everyone at the bargaining table.

“We’ve asked them, they’ve told us figures of 19 days per year, we’ve asked them to show us how they came up with those figures, what’s included in there. To this day we still don’t know,” said Allan Savard, president of CUPE L926.

With regard to sick time, the point has additionally been raised that custodians, by nature of their position, are at a higher risk of contracting an illness than any other university worker.

“The custodians are the ones that deal with the throw up, they’re the ones in the residences, you know how that is. You know I’d be the one in there cleaning it up,” said Roger Collison, custodian and chief steward of CUPE L926. “There’s other places where the flu goes through and we’re the ones in there cleaning that up, we’re the ones that are going to get hit with the bugs, that’s why we

JESSICA DIK/LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER

The Canadian Union of Public Employees rallied in the Quad last Thursday to raise support for their custodial staff.

use our sick time.”

CUPE’s primary concern with the new contract language revolves around the university’s desire to increase the work for which it can hire contract workers outside of CUPE. While CUPE believes the university would use this amended clause to replace all of its workers through attrition with contracted out workers, the university is adamant this is not the case.

“It’s a very important point, no Laurier employee is going to lose a job as a result of these proposals.

We’re talking about future work and vacant positions,” said Crowley.

The rally Thursday was well attended by custodians and their supporters, all unconvinced their needs are truly being considered by the university administration.

“We are a family here, and we want to keep our family here, and by contracting out you’re dismantling the family,” said Lynette Brubacher, CUPE custodian and L926 steward.

As of yet, both sides have accused the other of being unyielding in their arguments and unwilling to negotiation with regard to the contract.

Another meeting with the conciliator is scheduled to take place on December 16.

“It’s a very important point, no Laurier employee is going to lose a job as a result of these proposals.”

-Kevin Crowley, director of communications and public affairs

Thanks for the Great Term!

Open until December 23rd Reopens January 4th @ 11am Take Out (519) 884-0710 ext. 3573

CAMPUS NEWS • 5

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2015

STUDENTS’ UNION BOARD UNDER REVIEW After an eventful couple of months, the Students’ Union board members have had a busy term. The board has overall improved strategic discussions from the leadership of chair and chief governance officer Colin Aitchison. Over time, conversations started to improve around the table and new directors had their voices heard in discussions more often, but more contribution from all members is crucial. With so many events facing the board early on including the statue debate and the federal election,

it is important the board has all opinions heard to make the best decisions.

The board has seen huge improvements in engagement over the year in areas such as the committees and discussions surrounding major issues, however, directors seem uninterested in meetings, often being engaged with social media when updates or ideas are being announced to the board. Differences of opinions are seen in the meetings in serious debates or discussions between directors, creating a tense

environment in the boardroom. Board members also become defensive if other members disagree or criticize their ideas or opinions. In the second half of their term, directors should work on being professional and not taking a personal stance when debating what is best for the organization as a whole.

With Brantford directors taking up a third of the board, there has been better opportunity for true multi-campus representation. However tensions over a pro-Brantford versus pro-Wa-

terloo stance has often clouded the potential for collaboration. The board should be focusing on a holistic approach for both campuses and bringing concerns forward when it is in the best interest of students.

Overall, the board has improved in regards to their discussion and strategic planning and review of governance, but members could benefit in the Winter term by reviewing the Students’ Union policies and bringing more original opinions to the table.

Olivia Matthews President and CEO of the Students’ Union Matthews has gone above and beyond to communicate with the student population while representing them in various conferences. She went through an extensive preparation period with former president Sam Lambert who advised her on aspects of the job, such as decisionmaking and governance. Matthews is fully committed to talking to students, going so far as having office hours for people to come and voice their concerns and using her Twitter to constantly communicate.

So far in her term, Matthews has redistributed the Students’ Union marketing department to give students a sense of what the organization is about. Although she can be late, Matthews communicates with students on issues and

concerns involving the university and the Students’ Union. In her mission to become more involved in the Laurier community, she visits Brantford once a week and includes the campus in the board’s strategic discussions. Matthews has missed three meetings, but has given legitimate reasons for all of them, most for conferences.

During board meetings, Matthews provides thorough updates involving the university and the Students’ Union. She proves to be well-educated on Students’ Union operations and policies and takes an interest in the concerns of other board members, having side conversations when members bring up interesting points.

However, Matthews can be de-

fensive when other board members criticize her ideas, opinions, or ask questions and should stray from taking things too personally. She is also encouraged to follow Robert’s Rules of Orders during meetings.

Matthews has worked well with her vice-presidents. She constantly has knowledge of what they are up to and is cognisant of trying to avoid micromanaging. She should continue to be a liaison and let her VPs work to master their departments.

Overall, Matthews has proved to be successful in her role as president.

She’s committed to becoming involved in all aspects of the Students’ Union. Matthews is encouraged to continue communicating with students and advocating for them outside of the university.

Colin Aitchison Chair of the Board and Chief Governance Officer Aitchison has been a prepared chair and has obvious knowledge of the Students’ Union and the functions of the board. He has run meetings efficiently and has done a good job staying objective and limiting the amount of in-camera meetings, but could benefit from being more organized with agendas and one-on-one meetings.

Following the path of his predecessor, he’s provided a more strategy-focused mentality for the board, which is beneficial to the Students’ Union as a whole. He has

also continued to encourage good attendance from the board overall, which has been effective. As chair, Aitchison lets his fellow directors steer discussion, but could benefit from encouraging more engagement and critical discussion from some members. Additionally, while Aitchison does a great job bringing in the concerns of Brantford, he acknowledges his presence is not up to where he wanted it to be in his platform.

Aitchison’s professionalism and decorum have been exceptional. He displays a large amount of profes-

sionalism in such a large role. When issues arise, he handles them directly and immediately instead of letting them loom. However, Aitchison can oftentimes be seen as apprehensive or blunt at the table, which can make it difficult for board members to feel comfortable or bring up alternative discussion points. He should work on his approachability for the next term, as he will also be training his successor.

So far, Aitchison has had a successful term and fulfills the duties of chair and CGO.

has done so effectively and has run meetings well.

DeSumma is not as vocal as he was in the past, often taking a back seat and allowing other directors to take a larger role in discussions.

While this can be good to get more voices involved in decisions, he could have a more critical voice in discussions and use his experience and leadership.

DeSumma has a strong grasp of

the roles of the board, but sometimes strays to the operational aspect or brings up items that do not fall under the board’s jurisdiction. He should also advocate on behalf of Brantford in an effective way, asking critical questions when relevant.

Overall, DeSumma has steps to take in becoming a strong vice-chair, but has fulfilled his duties well and should continue to strive toward the expectations set for him.

Nick DeSumma Vice-Chair of the Board As vice-chair and a veteran member of the board, DeSumma has worked well in the role. As the first-ever vice-chair from Brantford, he brings a new perspective that is healthy for a Waterloo-heavy organization. He comes prepared to meetings and only missed the unscheduled one in September.

He brings his passion and dedication to the board. When having to step in as chair so far this year, he

These reviews were written collaboratively by Campus News Editor Kaitlyn Severin and Editor-in-Chief Shelby Blackley. They are based on observations from board meetings and interviews with directors, chair and president.

6 • CAMPUS NEWS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2015

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Kanwar Brar As a first-year director, Brar has been an absolute asset to the board. After going to every meeting last year, he has a great understanding of the board’s role, the long-term direction and their place in governance of the Students’ Union. Brar brings up good points for discussion and creates effective dialogue to move conversa-

tions forward.

He always comes prepared, having read the agenda and documents before meetings and has had superb attendance. Brar has also done great things as chair of the Ownership Linkage Committee, effectively reaching out to students and letting them know more of what the Union

does on a governance level.

Often Brar can speak fast, so he should work on articulating his points better to be understood by his fellow directors. Overall, he has had a great first term and should continue this into second semester. *Disclaimer: Kanwar Brar is an Opinion Columnist for The Cord

understands that the board is a nonpartisan entity and does not let his political biases intrude on his work as a director, which benefits his ability to make decisions.

DeSumma is vocal in discussions and understands the general functions of the board in terms of

governance and policy.

However, he should advocate on behalf of Brantford in an effective way, asking critical questions when relevant. He would also benefit from avoiding the operational aspect of the Students’ Union and focusing on the board’s role.

would rather voice original opinions, but should not stray from contributing to a larger discourse.

Fletcher has not been to Waterloo for a meeting due to class scheduling, but he would benefit from trying to make a meeting in person next semester and improving his overall attendance.

As a new director, Fletcher does his best to communicate with Brantford students, but should take the time to communicate with students in Waterloo.

Overall, Fletcher has been a good director, but he should speak up during meetings to bring his own voice into discussions.

During board meetings, Giuga keeps an open-mind to all ideas and opinions, but should engage more in strategic discussion at the table.

Thus far, he has shown his dedication by attending every meeting, including two in Brantford. While Giuga has voiced opinions on impor-

tant discussions, it is recommended he make relevant contributions to board meetings in the Winter term.

Guiga shows his passion his role during meetings, however, he should also communicate more with students and provide better clarification of his role as a director.

responsibilities as a Residence Life Don to make sure he’s engaging with students on both professional and personal levels.

In meetings, Harris brings forth valuable opinions and will not engage in discussions unless he feels he has something to contribute.

He is educated in policies and governance, but has not been as vocal as he was in the beginning of his term.

Although he understands his role as a director, Harris is encouraged to push forward his platform and speak more during discussions at the table.

Matt DeSumma DeSumma has been an effective director so far. He comes prepared with questions and has yet to miss a meeting. He is a personable director and can bring forth a strong voice for Brantford students.

He is passionate and involved in many committees. DeSumma

Ryley Fletcher Fletcher is a Brantford director who’s not only concerned about Brantford.

Although Fletcher is committed to bringing forth issues pertaining to the Brantford campus, he advocates for the university as a whole and does not let a bias disrupt his opinions.

He is quiet during discussions and

Giovanni Giuga As a new director, Giuga has been an asset to the board this term.

Although he doesn’t have a complete understanding of the role, Giuga has worked to learn the policies surrounding the Students’ Union and should continue to gain knowledge about the board’s inner workings.

Andrew Harris A new director, Harris conveys a sense of professionalism while advocating for the student population.

Harris is committed to bringing diverse perspectives on issues around the university and is passionate about advocating for diversity issues.

He is also able to combine his

CAMPUS NEWS • 7

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2015

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Abdiasis Issa Issa is an effective board member in that he understands policy, governance and the role of the board overall. He brings a good perspective to governance and the board’s role as a whole and can often bring critical

questions to the table. However, he is often late or absent from meetings without cause, making him unprepared for many discussions. He is also seen as abrasive or not congenial. Although Issa has the profes-

sionalism and potential of a good board member, he will need to work on this in the latter half of his term to be a more overall effective member. *Disclaimer: Abdiasis Issa is a director of the board for WLUSP

Similar to his previous term as a director, Jagannathan has continued to create strong discussions around the table. While debating on student and university issues, Jagannathan will take the time to hear what other directors have to say before voicing his own opinions.

Jagannathan should continue to be involved in discussion in board meetings and take more of a leadership role to communicate opinions earlier. Overall, Jagannathan has been a good director and could improve by reviewing his platform and contributing further.

bias toward any particular campus and looks at the Students’ Union as a whole.

Parton also makes an effort to talk about board-related things outside of board meetings.

However, Parton doesn’t often participate in discussions and can be

on social media instead of engaging in with fellow directors.

While Parton is the only female representative and has been a loyal member, she makes an effort to talk to fellow board members outside of meetings, more engagement at the table is recommended.

himself in the topic at hand by asking questions and voicing his opinion.

It is evident Ricci is passionate in his role as director and always comes prepared to meetings. It should be noted that Ricci brought up the issue of safety during Orientation Week and brought student feedback to the board.

However, sometimes Ricci will allow his personal biases into discussions. He should work to move away from doing this second term, and have a bigger presence on the Brantford campus.

Overall, Ricci has been a valued member of the board and should continue to be a veteran member.

often steers the direction of some discussions at the table. He has a strong understanding of how a board works and uses this to his advantage, having a level-headed, non-partisan approach to decision making.

Despite having multiple other commitments outside of the Students’ Union, Worden is involved in multiple committees and makes time

for meetings, having only missed one — the emergency senator meeting in September — since beginning his term.

Worden boasts a large amount of professionalism, dedication and passion to the role and should continue to be involved for the remainder of the year, providing an excellent example to his peers.

Sujaay Jagannathan Jagannathan has been highly involved in discussions and often brings his own ideal visions to the board while voicing his concerns.

Jagannathan, a returning board member and chair of the Board Vision Committee, knows what the role consists of.

Melody Parton As a veteran member of the board, Parton has a level-headed approach and understands the board and its role and what needs to be done Her dedication is evident as her attendance has been impeccable this year.

She does a good job avoiding a

Jonathan Ricci A veteran board member, Ricci has been one of the more enthusiastic directors this term. Ricci continues to be very active on social media and displays a huge desire to become more engaged with the student population.

He is very involved in board meetings and will often include

Derek Worden Despite being a first-year board member with no prior experience, Worden has been one of the strongest directors so far.

He always comes prepared, having read the agenda packages and brings comments and questions to the discussions.

Worden always has something to say or add to conversations and

8 •

Local

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2015 LOCAL NEWS EDITOR ERIKA YMANA eymana@thecord.ca

TRIBUTE

UW student remembered as influential individual ERIKA YMANA LOCAL NEWS EDITOR

CONTRIBUTED IMAGE

Gabriel “Gaby” Barsky, a third-year computer science student at the University of Waterloo, passed on the morning of December 2 while on his way to work at his co-op position at Athos in Redwood City, California.

Barsky lost control of his motorcycle and swerved into a different lane which led him to rear-end a pick-up truck. This resulted in a head trauma and other major injuries.

Barsky was close to completing his second co-op term at Athos, a company started by a UW alum, which works to provide smart clothing aiming to improve athletic performance.

At Athos, he was working on an app for iPhone users.

Barsky’s intelligence transcended in many ways.

He was awarded the President’s Scholarship, an entrance scholarship, having earned an average over 90 per cent. He was also a part of the Social Capital Fellows program, in which top engineering students are paired with innovative start-ups — Athos being one of them.

Barsky also spent one of his co-op terms at BlackBerry as a systems software developer and worked on a couple of tech projects on the side.

Aside from his academic excellence, Barsky also had a plethora of

“[He was] a really smart computer nerd, but such a cool down to earth guy who loved to party and loved to have fun.”

-Moshe Goldman, UW Jewish chaplain

interests and was deeply involved with the Jewish community in Waterloo.

Barsky held a position on the board of directors of Alpha Epsilon Pi , a Jewish fraternity in Waterloo.

Daniel Gottfried, president of APEI, said Barsky was a huge influence on the entire frat.

“He was the direct link between the brotherhood and the executive board. He solves all their problems, lets them know about any events, rallies them up and gets them going,” said Gottfried.

He added that with this tragic loss, he has seen nothing but “immense brotherhood” with the fraternity.

“They acknowledge that he [Barsky] was a huge part of the frat and there’s this huge, loving and brotherly aura in our frat right now, which sadly came from something

horrible,” he said.

APEI has been gathering a few ideas on how they will continue to honour their brother and to make his memory live on.

Rabbi Moshe Goldman, Jewish chaplain for the University of Waterloo and Wilfrid Laurier University, is also deeply involved with the frat, providing spiritual guidance in times of need. He held a memorial gathering at the Chabad the night of December 3. He said Barsky was a “very rare breed and a really unique guy.” “[He was] a really smart computer nerd, but such a cool down to earth guy who loved to party and loved to have fun and was up for any kind of adventure,” he said.

He relates this tragic time to a belief in Judaism, saying that every life contains a purpose.

While most people take an entire lifetime to fulfill this purpose, powerful souls like Barsky’s accomplish so much more in a shorter amount of time.

“This is a person who, no matter what their life’s mission was … he didn’t need 75 years. He was so incredible and so special that they got the job done in 20 years,” said Goldman.

When you get the job done, you report back to base and that’s it. Mission complete.”

LOCAL NEWS • 9

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2015 REFUGEES

SUSTAINABILITY

Handling climate change SAFINA HUSEIN STAFF WRITER

LENA YANG/CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Region works as a cohesive unit Refugee resettlement steered in the right direction by new committee ERIKA YMANA LOCAL NEWS EDITOR

Waterloo Region has issued a response for the influx of refugees expected to arrive within the next three months. This response is the Refugee Resettlement Steering Committee, headed by Dr. Liana Nolan, Waterloo Region’s medical officer of health, and Bert Lobe, interim executive director at Reception House.

The steering committee essentially builds on the work of the Immigration Partnership of Waterloo Region.

Everyone in the Region has a role to play and the steering committee works to organize all members involved as one cohesive unit working towards a common goal.

The committee was brought forward as many began to show interest in participating and volunteering for a number of related causes. Nolan said with this many organizations and people involved, there was a need for coordination.

“So that’s been a very important part of this … to respond to the overwhelming demand of people saying, ‘how can I help?’ ” said Nolan.

One of the committee’s initiatives, the Waterloo Region Welcomes Refugees website, was launched last week to provide all necessary information in one hub.

Launching this website eradicated miscommunication and the flow of different answers.

The committee officially formed on November 20 after the Immigration Partnership held a community planning meeting in which everyone involved were able to discuss how to move forward with this comprehensive project.

“Independently, lots of people came to their conclusion that they needed to organize. But I think this idea of an overarching structure is to help us in sharing information,” said Nolan.

“So we want to build on the work that has already been underway now for probably three to four weeks in the community, and to make sure that we’re coordinated.”

The new cohesive system will handle other aspects such as donations and volunteers in a bigger scope. On the site, a link will guide

“I think it’s going to enrich us in so many ways ... We all have a practical way to help each other out.”

-Sharon Schmidt, director at Welcome Home K-W

those who are interested to the positions in need.

“Now, because of this combined work we have one place that we can send people to and one website where different groups can post their updates in terms of informing the community on how they can help.”

Welcome Home K-W is one of the housing resources involved with the committee. They serve as an immediate housing option for government-sponsored refugees, as they are taken in for a year in a shared living space. Refugees are then helped to move on to a new place.

Welcome Home K-W is an example of a community initiative as it is now a program under Ray of Hope after struggles with funding and physical property.

Waterloo Region has always been a community for immigrant and refugee intake, making up 22.3 per cent of the region’s population.

But with the announcement of an extended timeline, the region is taking early precautionary measures in order to provide suitable arrangements for the incoming Syrian refugees.

“I think it’s going to enrich us in so many ways … We all have a practical way to help and reach out,” said Sharon Schmidt, director at Welcome Home.

Although the committee is a short-term response, Nolan said it can provide as a learning experience long-term.

“Certainly there’s an opportunity to collaborate more, so we’ll see where it goes. This is just a bigger project than what we’ve normally had within a certain time frame. I think we will learn some things … and it’s been a good opportunity to come together,” said Nolan.

The University of Waterloo and Intact Financial Corporation have recently announced the establishment of the Intact Centre on Climate Adaptation.

Through research, the centre will determine and prioritize factors regarding adaptation to climate change.

This will “de-risk” Canada’s system in reference to extreme weather — primarily flooding and also including ice, hail and wind.

Intact Financial Corporation will be the Intact Centre’s primary and initial funder, providing support for five years and a sum of $4.5 million.

ICCA will enable individuals to identify which factors are most important to address and where the efforts are needed most.

One of the main purposes of the centre is to establish on-the-ground execution programs.

Throughout the previous six years, Intact Financial funded a sum of $1.5 million for initial research to be conducted.

Blair Feltmate, head of ICCA, explained Canadian cities must be de-risked from extreme weather events with a focus on flooding.

Feltmate explained the centre will essentially focus on four subject areas.

One important area of focus will be the development of a home ad-

“[Floods] are very, very costly in the country to homeowners, the insurance industry and everybody else.”

-Blair Feltmate, head of ICCA

aptation audit program for Canada.

The program will provide a way for homes to be audited, followed by home owners receiving directions as to the efforts they can put in place in order to avoid floods in their houses. “[Floods] are very, very costly in the country to homeowners, the insurance industry and everybody else,” stated Feltmate.

Another major focus area for the centre will be the Canadian wetlands.

“We want to launch a national or provincial program to maintain the natural integrity of wetlands within and around major Canadian cities,” said Feltmate, explaining that the wetlands which remain intact ultimately limit the probability of flooding in the future.

In addition to addressing the risk which home owners face in regards to extreme climate, the centre will work with corporations to identify

the relative factors and key risks that industries are facing and the ways which these corporations can be de-risked.

Feltmate said the centre will also consider the technology which exists around the world that would potentially be helpful to Canadian climate adaptation systems.

“We’re looking at what efforts have been made around the world to derisk cities and systems, in reference to technologies that are out there, that could work to limit the negative impacts of flooding,” said Feltmate.

ICCA will seek these technologies and identify their use and potentially deploy them in Canada to eliminate risk in the system.

Feltmate said the centre will go beyond merely writing reports in regards to climate adaptation theories.

“We’re not talking about launching a home adaptation audit program, we’re actually doing it,” he said.

ICCA hopes to take the extra step by certifying the auditors, calculating the return on investment, running programs and looking at how adaptations can be deployed. Feltmate said through these actions, they will be able to “effectively hand it off to a government to take over.”

Furthermore, the ICCA will not only limit the negative aspects of extreme climate in regards to financial aspects, but social aspects as well.

“It’s enormously disruptive to Canadians when they’re flooded out.”

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10 • LOCAL NEWS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2015

REVIEW

2015 in review

We compiled this year’s most prolific stories

&

What’s ahead

Next year, keep a look out for...

IRON HORSE TRAIL ITAMAE In January, there was a report of bugs in the sashimi at Itamae Sushi after a thread on Reddit advised students to stay away from dining at the all-you-can-eat sushi restaurant. It was found that Itamae had multiple health infractions.

A few issues back we covered the iron horse trail and changes brought forward by the community.

These changes will be implemented in the following year, including road crossings, flow of traffic, safety and the width of the trail. The total cost of all improvements will be about $4 million.

PARIS VIGILS In light of the Paris attacks, the Laurier and K-W community both held candlelight vigils to honour all of the lives lost in the tragic event.

Government officials, the police force, both mayors and members of the community were present and shared reflections. Laurier president Max Blouw and Students’ Union president Olivia Matthews also shared words of support for international students from France.

PUB ON KING AND STARK & PERRI Two bars to look forward to in 2016 are Pub on King and Stark & Perri. Aesthetically, both look to be different and will attract opposite tastes. The Pub on King stays true to the former Fox & Fiddle’s roots and will be having its grand opening on December 10. Stark & Perri aims for a modern vibe, detaching from its predecessor, McMullan’s.

SAGE 2 APARTMENT A video was leaked of an administrative member from Sage 2 physically removing an tenant from the building after there was an announcement of construction being delayed further. This shed light on the bigger issue of living conditions for students in Waterloo and if paying so much money is really worth it in the end.

IKEA Ikea will be expanding to 130 Gateway Park Drive in Kitchener with a “pick-up and order point.” This will make it easier for customers to pick up online or large purchases at a closer location. Building a store with full showcase rooms will take years, so with a $20 pick-up fee, customers no longer need to travel to the Burlington location.

METH USE Staff Writer Christina Somos explored the peak of meth use in Waterloo Region and why this drug has been the “drug of choice” as opposed to other notorious drugs such as crack cocaine. The conclusion was that this derives from the production of both drugs, in which cocaine comes from source countries whereas meth can be made locally.

NORTHDALE REVITALIZATION The first phase of the Northdale area development will begin in the upcoming year.

This initial phase entails changes on Spruce Street and Hickory Street. This development is a long-term plan to re-vamp the entire area. Developers hope to attract permanent residents with the revitalization.

FILE PHOTOS BY HEATHER DAVIDSON, JESSICA DIK, ZACH GUITOR, MARCO PEDRI, TRISTAN RENAUD, CONTRIBUTED IMAGE

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2015

PHOTOS • 11

LOOKING BACK IN PHOTOS

PHOTO BY ANDREAS PATSIAOUROS/PHOTO EDITOR, WILL HUANG/PHOTO EDITOR, JESSICA DIK/LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER, SERENA GILL/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER, KAMIL AHMED/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER,

12 •

FEATU

FEATURES EDITOR/BETHANY BOWLES/BBOWLES@THECORD.CA

2015 in

The Cord’s staff compiled the popular culture

MOST PROLIFIC CELEBRITY

Justin Trudeau

They said, “he’s just not ready” and he said, “just watch me.” Whether you loved him or hated him, you heard about Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as he campaigned August through October and even paid a few visits to Wilfrid Laurier University along the way. Our university, he was sure to remind us, was named after his second favourite prime minister to the whoops and cheers of proud Golden Hawks. Already Trudeau has appointed a genderequal cabinet and has Canada in a flurry as the country prepares for a multitude of changes. Trudeau is pushing the envelope in Canadian politics and begs the question of if another Trudeaumania is upon us. While 2015 was a big year for him, it may just be the beginning.

–Nicole Gatchene

Mad Max

BEST FILM

When I first saw previews for Mad Max: Fury Road, I thought it was a joke. I didn’t know much about Mel Gibson’s Mad Max, so I didn’t quite get it. I was dragged to the theatre to see the film with very low expectations. When I left, I was in awe. Tom Hardy was a heartthrob, Charlize Theron was a badass, the cinematography was impeccable, the car chases were out of this world and the story line took an unexpected feminist turn.

I left the theatre irrevocably in love with Tom Hardy. I loved this film, its social critique and the several conversations that it sparked after.

–Bethany Bowles

Caitlyn Jenner

Donald Trump

Caitlyn Jenner is hands-down the most prolific celebrity of 2015. In a year that has become very progressive for discussions about race, LGBTQ rights and gender equity, Caitlyn Jenner has been of the figures at the forefront. Despite harsh criticisms of what is considered “brave,” Jenner proves that being in the public eye as a member of one of the wealthiest families in the world allows the freedom to express yourself however you desire. She sparked a conversation about something that needed to be talked about and educated the world about an issue often stigmatized.

–Kyle McCord

I remember in 2012 when Trump suggested he might run for president. Everyone from the most serious journalists to Jon Stewart and Steven Colbert laughed off the idea and of course he didn’t actually go through with it. When it happened again earlier this year people again laughed off the idea, and when he made his announcement everyone thought he’d be a flash in the pan, flaming out quickly as a publicity stunt. After each ridiculous and offensive comment, his poll numbers grew and as of today he is the leading contender for the Republican party’s nomination for president of the United States. He has gone from an eccentric and boorish reality television host to the crypto-fascist face of the Republican party, suggesting the US government should register Muslim Americans in a database and build a giant wall on the US-Mexico border, forcing Mexico to pay for it. It’s been hard to go a week this year without hearing about his ridiculous antics.

–Mynt Marsellus

Best of Enemies

Trainwreck

It is hard to be a woman in the entertainment industry. Being called out for your weight, sexuality and overall appearance is all people can focus on. Amy Schumer took all these comments people made about her, combined this with her sketch-comedy show skills and turned it into a hilarious two-hour feature film. In Trainwreck, Schumer plays a floozy, single woman who has lived her life against monogamy, but questions everything when she begins falling for a doctor. Trainwreck is one of the best films of this year because of its comments on this generation’s approach to monogamous relationships. It is filled with the best comedic moments, a lot of heart and the funniest sex scene ever.

–Kyle McCord

Are you tired of how people talk about politics nowadays? Do you hate seeing two people “debating” when it doesn’t sound like they’re even engaging in conversation? Well, the best movie of this year traces all of these trends back to a singular moment in American politics when punditry was born in 1968. Two smart guys were put on TV to argue about politics when the Democrats and Republicans were selecting their nominees for president that year and their ratings skyrocketed.

Best of Enemies is a documentary that tells the story of these two men and the impact their debates have had on American politics. It’s a beautiful and exciting story that really hits home, more than any documentary I’ve seen in recent years.

–Mynt Marsellus

White Men Are

The entire world saw Adele’s new album, 25, coming from a mile away. Adele’s triumphant second album, 21, solidified her as a music icon. She could have ended it there and been set for life, but all greats make their return. Adele’s latest, is the most iconic album of 2015. With the mega-hit “Hello” Adele returned with a vengeance. She not only proved talent never fades, but she also proved that in 2015 you can still sell three million albums in a week. The album is packed with other hits like “Water Under the Bridge” and she brightens up the darkness of 21 by singing of love and heartbreak. Adele is here to stay and her legacy will live on as the biggest selling artist of 2015.

–Kyle McCord

On their second full-length hip-hop sound in favour o Black Men Too. Certainly a risky st tremendous results. Standout trac ebbing bass line and howling voca Young Fathers’ greatest politica mother that trudges on gracefully originally licensed the band to ma Nestlé’s unethical business practic with powerful political motives an –Zach Guitor

To Pimp a Butterfly : Kendrick Lamar

Great albums are not just collections of great songs, they are a medium for longform storytelling. Using all those literary devices you learned about in high school English classes — metaphor, hyperbole, repetition, motif and symbolism — a well put together album can get a message across that won’t fit in a four-minute pop song. Kendrick Lamar’s second studio record does all of this, telling a complex story of racism in America today, while also building musically on the work of other recent innovative rappers. It’s both more experimental than Good Kid MAAD City and more polished in its production, making it not only one of the best hip hop albums of the decade, but undoubtedly the best record of this year.

–Mynt Marsellus

“You Don’t Own Me”

by Grace ft. G-Easy

“Can’t Feel My Face”

by The Weeknd

“Blackstar”

by David Bowie

“You Don’t Own Me” by Grace ft.

G-Eazy beautifully sums up the status of todays popular music: it’s a hybrid of what we loved and what we are going to love. Grace’s cover of Lesley Gore’s female empowered anthem mixes blues with heavy pop power and R&B flair, while fusing hip-hop flavor with G-Eazy’s intro and verse. Grace is an up-and-coming powerhouse from Australia and this will forever be her best song. It is the best single of 2015 because it takes what music is trying to do and does it without trying too hard.

It stands out on its own without sounding like any other hit released this year.

–Kyle McCord

The Weeknd had already entered the public consciousness before this year, but with the release of “Earned It” on the 50 Shades of Grey soundtrack last December and his second studio release Beauty Behind the Madness this August, he truly entered the realm of superstardom. And on that record is “Can’t Feel My Face,” easily the best song of 2015. While The Weeknd is undoubtedly an R&B artist, this track is equal parts pop music, EDM, and the most infectious beat on any song this year. It does exactly what great pop music should do — make you want to sing along.

–Mynt Marsellus

With his last studio album released in 2013, David Bowie is back once again with new music with his upcoming 25th studio album Blackstar. His first single from the album, which is also the title track, was released on November 20. His initial reports say Bowie drew influence from Kendrick Lamar’s To Pimp a Butterfly, and the single marks Bowie going back to the far-reaching, avant-garde pop music he was putting out in 1980. With a running time of over nine minutes, Bowie shows while he is turning 69 years old, he still has the ability to craft deeply profound and provocative pop music.

–Bryan Stephens

Badlands : Hals

It’s nothing that will hit the the indie world by storm. B — it tells a story of its own accord yet ever so relatable to troubles w album has a different favourite so ism, self-doubt, adventure and tru sophisticated for 2015.

–Shelby Blackley

BEST SPORTS TEAM/ATHLETE

BEST SINGLE

BEST ALBUM

25 : Adele

Toronto Blue Jays

You can’t walk anywhere without talking ab one of their best seasons since they last won didn’t come home with a World Series, the loved fans and made this season interestin had heart attacks and bandwagon jumpers regardless of the outcome, fans have a “re 2015 in sports.

–Shelby Blackley

URES

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2015 • 13

review BEST NEW ARTIST

best and most memorable in of the past year

Courtney Barnett

Leon Bridges

Leon Bridges is so special that only a select few can appreciate his talent. Bridges’ debut album, Coming Home, is a throwback to early blues music. It reminds listeners of a Mississippi summer afternoon.

The most amazing thing about Bridges is that he does not try to be modern or new.

He is perfectly fine in the past; he is an old soul and it suits him so well. He has also managed to be prolific without gaining too much attention, he is getting tons of recognition without being at every award show. He shows what it means to be old school, really old school.

–Kyle McCord

Although she’s been on the radar of music pundits for a couple of years, Courtney Barnett has truly made her mark in 2015 with the release of her debut album, Sometimes I Sit And Think, And Sometimes I Just Sit. On the record, Barnett navigates through two greatly differing sonic spheres.

In one, Barnett stands in stark contrast to the reverbsoaked trend of modern indie rock, with no-bullshit distorted riffs and witty, clever lyricism, especially on album-standout “Pedestrian at Best.” Barnett then winds things down with stripped-back instrumentation on ballads like “Depreston,” which explores the mundane nature of adulthood and the inevitable suburban settlement. Courtney Barnett has certainly made her mark this year, especially given her recent nomination at The Grammy’s for “Best New Artist.”

–Zach Guitor

Nathaniel Rateliff

Although Nathaniel Rateliff has recorded previous albums before this year, the 2015 release by Nathaniel Rateliff and the Night Sweats really put the singer songwriter in the public eye, making him a notable new artist of 2015. His breakout single, “S.O.B,” is new and refreshing. The album as a whole doesn’t offer a tone of diversity. It is clear Rateliff feels comfortable in the bluesy, old school rock genre, which is fair because he does it so well. If you liked “S.O.B” then you will enjoy the album as a whole. The single is a good representation of what to expect on the rest of the album. Rateliff’s sound is new and unique making it a fun release for 2015.

–Bethany Bowles

Scream Queens

BEST TV SHOW

The thing about Scream Queens is that you either love it or you do not understand it enough to like it. The black comedy-horror from the creator of American Horror Story and Glee mixes the qualities of those two shows qualities and packs it into one amazing show. Set on a college campus, the red devil killer is haunting and killing the girls of a sorority house on the 20th anniversary of a dark secret. The storyline will keep you coming back each episode to find out more, the comedy will make you feel guilty for laughing and the murders are so over the top that it works. Not to mention knockout performances from Emma Roberts as the campus bitch and Jamie Lee Curtis as the powerful dean of students. Scream Queens is a staple in horror’s reign over primetime TV. –Kyle McCord

Master of None Even as a longtime fan of Aziz Ansari, his latest Netflix dramedy Master of None still managed to surpass high expectations. With thoughtful characterization, socially conscious writing and the undeniable charm of the two leads, Ansari has a classic on his hands. Borrowing from the realism of Louie, but injecting his own silly demeanor, Master of None tackles social issues in a light-hearted manner to keep viewers engaged while still getting the message across. Master is at its best when Ansari engages in natural yet absurd banter, whether it is with the childish Arnold, the confident Denise or Rachel — Ansari’s main love interest who can hardly be described in a single adjective, given the nuance of Noël Wells’ portrayal. Master of None deserves all its praises.

–Zach Guitor

e top of the charts, but Hasley’s debut album Badlands took Badlands is not a traditional album by any sense of the world d. The journey you are on through this album feels mystic, we face daily. Almost every person I’ve talked to about this ong that varies immensely from its sister on the list. Escaputh shine through each track, making Halsey’s debut raw and

bout the Toronto Blue Jays, which had n the World Series in 1993. While they Jays recaptured the hearts of their beng from start to finish. Long-time fans s were ready to celebrate the win, and emember when” moment that defines

BEST NEW VENUE IN K-W

sey

One of the best new shows of 2015 was easily AMC’s Better Call Saul. Countless people followed the journey of Walter White in AMC’s Breaking Bad, which is widely regarded by fans and critics as one of the greatest shows of all time. Better Call Saul allows Breaking Bad fans to still get their fix of a few of their favourite Breaking Bad characters, such as lawyer Saul Goodman, and his private investigator Michael Ehrmantraut. For many, the idea of spinning off a show as good as Breaking Bad seemed like a bad idea, but Better Call Saul received record setting cable views, drawing 6.9 million viewers on its series premiere and displaying a positive review from 68 different television critics on Rotten Tomatoes.

–Brian Phillips

Innocente

e Black Men Too : Young Fathers

h release, Young Fathers stray from their signature industrial of contorted noise pop in their 2015 release, White Men Are tylistic shift, but the Edinburgh-based group pulled it off with cks include “Shame,” a song driven by a light rattling beat, an als. al message lies in the song “Nest,” a ballad to the African y, despite a buzzing bass and static-soaked chanting. Nestlé ake the song, but the band took the opportunity to protest ces. Young Fathers have married their gruff sound aesthetic nd pop structure to create a statement piece like no other.

Better Call Saul

I’m partial to Innocente. This has been Innocente’s year with the courageous brews they’ve made — one even tasted like green peas — and how they’ve made a mark in the craft brewing world.

Their staff are personable and make the effort to get to know you at all events. Innocente’s beers vary for all drinkers and leave a lasting impression, making you want to grab another growler– worth of your favourite.

–Shelby Blackley

B@THEMUSEUM

B@THEMUSEUM is conveniently connected to THEMUSEUM, a perfect go to place after a date. It features local craft beer for beer lovers and uses fresh, local ingredients in their dishes. The most unique aspect of this restaurant is its interior design. With a rustic feel of narrow wooden panels spanning the ceiling lined with string pendant lights and walls covered with wooden cabinet doors, the restaurant has an air of warmth. B@THEMUSEUM is your summer backyard party indoors.

–Jessica Dik

Stephen Curry

Stephen Curry. Chef Curry. Whether or not you keep up with basketball, both will soon be household names. Averaging 32.4 points per game and with an undefeated record of 22-0 thus far, Curry is undoubtedly one of the best shooters playing with the best team in the NBA. He is known for his extraordinary skill in shooting, as he is currently at 47.2 per cent beyond the three-point line. It’s hard to gauge a player’s excellence through statistics and other terms that probably mean nothing to the average person. It’s clear Curry is absolutely killing it in his craft and it’s as if he were placed on this earth to do that one thing and nothing else.

Isolating the player from the game, his passion is expressed through constant excellence. Seeing this energy always makes for a great game, and even if you’re not into this sport, if Curry’s on the court, you’re bound to be on the edge of your seat.

–Erika Ymana

Raptors

The Toronto Raptors became one of the nation’s most fun teams to watch this year.

With an overall record of 49-33 in the 2014-15 season, the Raptors repeated as Atlantic Division champions for the second straight year — the first time in franchise history they accomplished this. Their run in the playoffs was short — a sweep in the first round — but they captivated their once jaded audience. Coming into the 2015-16 season, the Raptors continued their momentum in the regular season.

With a roller coaster of a beginning, the Raptors have kept it interesting in every game with all-star duo in guards Kyle Lowry and Demar DeRozan stepping up in games to keep the Raptors close, as well as having a strong lineup in Jonas Valanciunas and DeMarre Carroll.

–Drew Yates

PHOTOS BY WILL HUANG/PHOTO EDITOR, JESSICA DIK/LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER, CONTRIBUTED IMAGES

14 • BIA

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2015

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16 •

Arts & Life

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2015 ARTS & LIFE EDITOR ZACH GUITOR zguitor@thecord.ca

CULTURE

BORROWED BUDDHISM Cultural appropriation in yoga and the commercialization of Buddha

FANI HSIEH/GRAPHIC ARTIST

ZACH GUITOR ARTS & LIFE EDITOR

The debate involving yoga has reached new heights with the suspension of free classes at the University of Ottawa. Concerns arose as students felt it was culture appropriation to adopt yoga.

The student federation at the University of Ottawa noted the classes aren’t cancelled, but rather put on hiatus until the classes can be made “more accessible and more inclusive to certain groups of people that feel left out in yoga-like spaces.”

This sparked debate across the country. Both the practice of yoga and the way in which yoga studios and spaces use cultural imagery have been put under a microscope to determine whether these practices are detrimental or disrespectful to other cultures.

Practicing Buddhists at Buddha’s Light Centre in uptown Waterloo have weighed in on the issue, noting that although yoga studios have borrowed some meditation practices from Buddhism, it isn’t detrimental to the religion.

“There are some meditation places all over the place and there are some here in town too, and people think they’re tainting Buddhism, but they’re not. All they’re teaching is mindfulness,” said Val, a practicing Buddhist from Waterloo.

Although the practices of yoga studios have not deterred some Bud-

dhists in the area, Val and volunteers at Buddha’s Light Centre emphasized the use of Buddhist imagery as a marketing tool can serve to offend.

“I’ve seen pictures of Buddha flipflops where you’re standing on the Buddha and I just find it disrespectful,” said Val. When presented with Buddha Bowl Foods, a snack food brand that claims their organic popcorn will help you “find your inner zen,” Val had few, but powerful words to share.

“Garbage,” said Val. “People don’t even know what ‘zen’ is, people practice ‘zen’ for 30 odd years and still don’t totally understand it.”

Now this begs the question of whether Buddhist imagery in the yoga context falls into the same camp. In the debate of Buddha statues in yoga studios, Val and the volunteers reached a consensus.

“It’s not really hurting anyone, it

“People don’t even know what ‘zen’ is, people practice ‘zen’ for 30 odd years and still don’t totally understand it.”

-Val, practicing Buddhist from Buddha’s Light Centre

depends where they place it. You don’t place the Buddha on the floor,” said Val. From the perspective of David Tiviluk, owner and director of Bikram Yoga Kitchener-Waterloo, the concept of “cultural appropriation” isn’t necessarily detrimental.

“There’s constant cross-fertilization taking place between individuals, communities, cultures … to suggest that that wouldn’t take place or shouldn’t take place is absurd in this era,” said Tiviluk.

“Whether it’s culture or technology, it’s important and beneficial that people borrow and learn from other people, other cultures, other religions. It’s essential, that’s how you grow, that’s how you benefit from the richness of the world.”

As a yoga instructor for 12 years and studio owner for eight, Tiviluk said no one has ever directly claimed his practice of yoga was cultural appropriation. Nonetheless, Tiviluk said it is important to be mindful of yoga teaching methods.

“I think that the manner in which it is sometimes taught, there’s a kind of superficiality about it that in effect becomes slightly disrespectful and that goes against what I regard as fundamental to the eastern tradition,” said Tiviluk.

“It’s pop culture yoga, that’s packaged to suit a westerner who wants to do what they want and be self-indulgent.”

David noted as a yoga studio that

MUSIC

-David Tiviluk, owner and director of Bikram Yoga Kitchener-Waterloo

follows the teachings of Bikram Choudhury, a famed yoga guru from India, his studio avoids the “pop-culture yoga” leanings. Tiviluk asserted by following Choudhury teachings, an inherent respectfulness rooted in tradition is developed by Bikram instructors.

With respect to the religious and spiritual elements of yoga, Tiviluk asserted he has made a deliberate effort to avoid using spiritual or religious symbolism or diction during classes.

He said instructors do not encourage participants to find their inner “chakra,” but rather give physical instructions for physical benefit.

“I was conscientious about not making it seem like this some kind of spiritual practice or religious practice, that has religious affiliation … I mean we’ve got a couple statues of the Buddha, but apart from that there’s no religious symbolism,” said Tiviluk.

Despite its religious origins,

Tiviluk affirmed the Buddha has transcended religious origin and become a symbol for “peace and serenity.” He emphasized that commercialized Buddhist imagery can serve to spark curiosity in some people and encourage them to seek out spirituality. Given its presence in the studio, Tiviluk said he maintains a deep respect for the Buddha and his teachings.

“You could say that’s cultural appropriation, I’ve taken it from another culture and used it for my own purposes within this space, but also have deep respect and honour for that tradition,” said Tiviluk.

Tiviluk went on to discuss how other elements of the studio have been developed under the premise of “cultural appropriation,” including the studio’s juice and smoothie bar, the Buddha Bar. “I mean it’s a prime example of cultural appropriation … but it’s just, I think it’s hip, and I don’t think it’s disrespectful towards the Buddha because all we’re serving is organic wheat juice and smoothies and there’s no alcohol,” said Tiviluk.

When presented with the concept of the Buddha Bar, Val of Buddha’s Light Centre still maintained that the use of Buddha in this context did not bode well with her.

“I don’t like the thought of a Buddha smoothie, I mean would you do a ‘Jesus’ smoothie? Would you do an ‘Allah’ smoothie? A ‘Krishna’ smoothie?” said Val.

Circles — Vök

THE PERFECT SHOVELING PLAYLIST The Cord’s favourite winter albums Soon It Will Be Cold Enough — Emancipator One of the hardest points of listening to Emancipator is pinning down his music to any one genre or influence. Soon It Will Be Cold Enough, released independently in 2006, is a myriad of sounds when put together creates something that embodies the beauty of the winter season. Mixing ambient noises, hip hop beats, guitar feedback and delicate melodies, courtesy of both piano and vocal sections, Soon It Will Be Cold Enough is a master class in taking the sounds of winter and weaving musical composition and interpretation into it.

What propels this album into a modern classic is the organic nature of the music — how nothing feels forced and listening to it can feel

“It’s a prime example of cultural appropriation … but it’s just, I think it’s hip, and I don’t think it’s disrespectful towards the Buddha.”

calming. “Lionheart” and “Smoke Signals” are examples of the heights Emancipator can take breezy melodies and expose winter as a calming force. The album sounds comfortable and like its album cover of a snow-ladened forest, reflects the joy that the winter season can bring.

–Bryan Stephens

Sun Leads Me On — Half Moon Run The must have album for this winter has got to be Sun Leads Me On by Half Moon Run. If you’re an indie pop/rock lover than this newest release by the group will be more than satisfying. Sun Leads Me On offers upbeat and bright sounding tracks, in opposition to earlier releases.

Where the norm for the band is to sound gloomy, this new album offers the same entrancing music with a livelier atmosphere.

Songs like “Turn Your Love” give the listener what they want; the classic gang vocals and harmonies that increasingly refine their musical identity. As exams are approaching at full speed and the soon to be winter blues are sure to come any week now, Sun Leads Me On will give you the musical motivation you need to make it through this stressful and at times dark period of the year.

–Ryan Culley

I first discovered Vök’s EP Circles when my sister went to Iceland and brought me back the Best of Icelandic Indie compilation. I’ve always enjoyed the Icelandic music scene, so this CD instantly became my life soundtrack.

One track on this compilation was called “Waterfall.” I was so mesmerized by this melodic, electro indie song. The verses are quiet and dreamy, but the chorus hits you with a bang. With only three members, Vök’s sound is big, but chill enough for studying.

Circles is only four tracks, but each track is so good it leaves you begging for this band to record a full-length album. They’ve only been around since 2013, which means if this EP is well received by fans hopefully we will see more from Vök in the near future.

–Bethany Bowles

6 Feet Beneath the Moon — King Krule King Krule lives in a cold, dark world.

He sings of a life “Bathed in Grey” and with the bitter winter approaching, it seems to be the perfect occasion to enter his twisted world.

Archie Marshall, the brains behind King Krule, melds his eclectic music taste to reflect the grime of his South London upbringing. Some consider him “darkwave,” but really he falls somewhere between jazz, hip-hop and contemporary indie rock.

With his signature baritone growl, Marshall is like no other in the music industry today.

On the opener “Easy Easy,” Marshall’s drunken croon soars over a rolling bassline and a muted, trebled guitar, serving as the ideal introduction to Marshall’s dark landscape.

The rest of the album follows a similar sound aesthetic trend, clinging the listener to Marshall’s grief.

–Zach Guitor

ARTS & LIFE • 17

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2015 HOLIDAYS

THE CORD’S

Holiday Gift Guide WORDS BY BRITTANY DITIZIO

THE FASHION GURU

THE SPORTS FANATIC

Whether they’re a friend or a family member, you probably know someone who loves fashion and shows it daily. A popular item for both males and females this season is the beanie or “sloppy toque,” which you can find at almost every clothing store. From comfy blanket scarves to baggy turtlenecks — along with Sephora holiday palettes — you’ll be sure to please the fashionista in your life.

For the fashion-forward male, you can’t go wrong with a plaid button up, a great pair of chinos (dressy khaki pants for those unfamiliar) and even men can enjoy a gift from Sephora — their shaving kits are useful for anyone.

For the people in your life that can’t go a day without talking about their favourite sports team, purchase something purposeful.

Baseball caps are a gift that can be useful anytime for guys or girls and is an inexpensive one at that. Sporting events are something any enthusiast can appreciate — so why not pre-order Blue Jays tickets for next summer or send them to a hockey game at the Air Canada Centre? You can never go wrong with sports memorabilia like team drink ware or t-shirts, and chances are you can find a specialty store that sells these at your local shopping mall.

THE BOOK WORM

THE HEALTH NUT

You may think the only thing a bookworm would make use of is, well, a book — but that’s not the case in this modern era. For those who would rather have a hundred books in their hand at once, a Kindle is a perfect choice.

Affordable and easy to use, this gadget is the modern readers dream with unlimited access to eBooks. There are tons of little gadgets to accommodate every book lover such as the “handy bookmark” ¬— a bookmark with a tiny finger that points to a word on a page you were just too tired to finish. Or “bed prism glasses” — bifocals to help you read a book at eye level while your head is flat on your pillow.

Odds are you have a loved one who is all about health and fitness, so why not help contribute to their passion? The Fitbit is an accessory that keeps track of a person’s daily activities and nutrition to help them stay motivated and achieve fitness goals.

This is a great gift for many and can be purchased online or at most department stores. If your person is always on top of their fitness game, chances are they love to sweat. Why not get them a month or two at a hot yoga studio? Moksha yoga has studios in many major Ontario cities. Those who keep healthy tend to enjoy healthy meals, which is why a cookbook would also be a great and useful present.

If you want to keep it simple, grab a Booster Juice gift card, which is great for after a workout or really any time of the day.

THE MUSIC GEEK

For the people in your life that can’t even sleep without music, there are tons of great gifts out there they would love. Tech savvy items are booming and waterproof shower speakers are at the top of this list. For the classic music junkies, records will never go out of style and can be found in local music stores and online. For those who like to change up the way they listen to music, record players or Bluetooth speakers would be a great gesture.

While many of these items can be found in electronic stores, Urban Outfitters has many great finds from modern accessories to vintage gems.

THE FAMILY PET

While your busy buying gifts for the wonderful humans in your life, let’s not forget about our furry companions. Many people have pet dogs or cats so gift giving is fairly similar between the two. From pet treats to a brand new bed, squeaky toys and a new hairbrush, your pet will appreciate every bit of it — even though they don’t know why you bought them gifts. Besides giving gifts to your pets, bring your dog or cat to the mall or a pet store chain such as PetSmart and snap a quick picture with Santa for a family gift — it may be the most entertaining thing you do this month.

GRAPHICS BY ZACH GUITOR/ARTS & LIFE EDITOR

CEnTrE for TEaChIng InnovaTIon and ExCEllEnCE (CTIE)

Award for Teaching Excellence

Teaching Assistant Award of Excellence

PURPOSE

PURPOSE

To honour the laurier faculty and instructional staff who innovate and excel in their teaching

To recognize the outstanding achievement of one undergraduate and one graduate teaching/instructional assistant

AWARD CATEGORIES

AWARDEES RECEIVE

• Sustained Excellence in Teaching award • Early Career Excellence in Teaching award (Part-time) • Early Career Excellence in Teaching award (full-time) • Innovation in Teaching award

NOMINATION DEADLINES faculty/School dean January 15, 2016

CTIE February 1, 2016

CONTACT Program and Events Coordinator, CTIE T 519.884.0710 x3507 E ctie@wlu.ca

WILFRID LAURIER UNIVERSITy Waterloo | Brantford | Kitchener | Toronto

wlu.ca/ctie/awards

• $500 scholarship • Picture added to the Teaching hall of fame • recognition at convocation • a framed certificate

NOMINATION DEADLINES March 1, 2016

18 • ARTS & LIFE

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2015

ART

A creative space for all The Outpost, a new art gallery and venue in Kitchener, is a place for sharing community art and self-expression MANJOT BHULLAR STAFF WRITER

The Outpost is a space for many types of artists to display their work in a variety of methods.

Run by long time friends Goran Dmitrovic and Syd Ursa, The Outpost came together after years of brainstorming and thinking through the logistics of operating such a venue.

The two met in their second year of economics at the University of Waterloo through a mutual friend while making music in a basement studio.

They currently still hold their jobs in high-risk sales, however Ursa and Dmitrovic didn’t forget to take the time to bring The Outpost to fruition and continue working towards growing the venue to its full potential.

“It’s been close to two years now that we’ve been working on [The Outpost] … [although] the space has been here for two years, the concept goes back to us jamming out in the basement talking about what kind of venue would be interesting to create,” said Dmitrovic.

When you walk into The Outpost, you’re met with a surprising officelike welcoming area. However once through the doors beyond the desk, you’re introduced into the art space and fully immersed into all the different expressions of self.

Immediately, a projection on the wall ahead drew me in. I wondered how it functioned and what it signified. Two programmers from British Columbia, Michael Horniak and Mike Savage, created the webcamdetected light display which is operated by pointing a light into the webcam. It immediately casts streaks of colour onto the projection screen.

Stimulated by the intensity and angle of light pointed into the webcam, this display kicked off my experience with a very interactive exhibit.

As I moved through the exhibit rooms to the right, I entered the Music Room where artists from across Canada have come to play. Another floor to ceiling exhibit is projected onto the far wall, except this particular exhibit is stimulated by sound, hence its perfect placement within the Music Room.

The unique atmosphere at The Outpost begs the question, which musical acts are usually most drawn into playing this venue?

“Electronic is the genre of music that envelopes the artists who primarily play at the Music Room, but it’s inaccurate to put them all under one umbrella term. You see one-man bands, to DJs, to full bands with equipment,” explained Dmitrovic.

Some bands that come to play also morph the projections to better set the mood for their show by projecting movies, clips and sometimes even digital clones of themselves.

Back stepping to the beginning of my experience and past walls well adorned with sculptures, paintings and drawings, I entered a dimly lit room to the left. This room, dubbed the Social Room, allows for guests to escape the Music Room if they want to take a break and lounge on the eclectic furniture.

The Outpost presents such stark separations between atmospheres of different rooms all within one unit, which gives guests the opportunity to experience multiple nights out all in one space. A taste of music, art and socialization come together and manage to create different energies,

but also harmonize together.

Along the walls of the Social Room, I noticed one of the more seasoned artists’ work. Wendy Bones’ collection of drawings comes together on the walls to form a fairytale, which she’s been working on for a couple years.

“It’s about lost love and heartbreak. It’s the rise and fall of a princess named Justice, and there are around 14 images that create plot arches, a climax and resolve,” Ursa said.

While snacking on food laid out on the tables, you can make your way across the room to read the story of Justice and dissect the pop art-esque images.

The Outpost’s creators manage to maintain a level of quality by working alongside artists to curate the displayed content. They also mentioned many of the interested artists come from professional backgrounds.

Although they have been working on The Outpost for two years, they said it still has a long way to go, and for this reason, Ursa and Dmitrovic set up a crowd funding campaign on Indiegogo. They hope to replace many of the space’s structural limitations to realize its true potential.

“We want to get better gear, lighting and generate money to create a schedule of particular nights that the public will grow to know as our themed nights,” said Ursa.

With so much going on at The Outpost, at times it may seem a bit cluttered with a mix of roughedged and professional pieces of art. Reaching their goals with the campaign will help them to curate even better content to enhance the overall experience.

WILL HUANG/PHOTO EDITOR, ARTWORKS BY MILAN KOZOMORA

EXAMS

Staying focused during stressful times LENA YANG CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Everybody thinks they have focus issues.

The slew of distractions we face daily are undoubtedly detrimental to our productivity. When exams roll around, it may seem impossible to escape the vortex of social media and procrastination. However like every other problem, there are simple solutions to staying focused during stressful times.

Find your study spot Many of you will resort to the library on sheer principle that a place filled with books must be able to enhance your intelligence, but contrary to popular belief, sitting there for hours on end will not automatically fill you with knowledge.

Sure, some people really do study better in dead silence, but there are also others who prefer a bit more hustle and bustle.

This is where on-campus study spaces like the Concourse and the 24-Hour Lounge come in handy.

Sure it may get a little loud at times, but sometimes being in an environment where other people are also studying can do wonders for your

own productivity.

For those who like to get a bit cozier with their books, places like Veritas Café, Second Cup or even Coffee Culture in uptown Waterloo are worth a try. The perpetual aroma of coffee will keep you refreshed while their selection of meals and desserts will keep you happy and fed during study sessions. After all, everyone knows those complicated theories are just that much easier to understand with a slice of cake by your side.

able, bite-sized chunks and throw in some menial tasks like “organize fridge” or “do laundry.” Studies have shown taking short breaks can boost productivity and improve your ability to focus. You’ll be giving yourself much needed downtime by allotting time for breaks to take care of other chores, plus it’ll make you feel much more productive when you get to cross a task off of your daily to-do list.

The inevitable cram

Productivity apps No matter how hard you try, you will end up on Facebook.

Luckily, just because you can’t resist doesn’t mean technology can’t resist for you.

Cold Turkey is an app available for download on PCs that allows users to block websites for a set amount of time. Much like its Mac counterpart, SelfControl, once the timer has been set for a certain website to be blacklisted, you will not be able to access it until the timer is up. Even if you restart your computer or delete the app, you still will not be able to access the website.

Set the mood with music The effectiveness of music as a practical study tool has been debated for years.

Some argue for it while some argue against it, but for those who

ANDREAS PATSIAOUROS/ PHOTO EDITOR

Get away from the needless distractions this exam season to get focused

do prefer to study with music, it is imperative to find the right type of music to study to.

Research shows songs with lyrics have a significant negative impact on concentration so ditch those top-40 hits — that new Adele album can be put on hold until exams are over.

Instead, opt for some classical or ambient instrumental tracks. Film and video game scores are especially good for studying. Go on YouTube and sift through some “best film scores” compilations, press play and dive into those textbooks.

My recommendations: The Journey soundtrack by Austin Wintory and the Romeo and Juliet score by Abel Korzeniowski. You can move mountains with those albums.

Create a realistic schedule and stick to it Don’t start with a vague goal of studying for whatever exam is coming up. Instead make a concrete and viable schedule for everything that needs to be done. Prioritize your assignments and then break them down into feasible chunks of work to be accomplished each day.

The key word here is feasible. The main obstruction to productivity is unrealistic goals. Guilt resulting from unaccomplished tasks will often create a snowball effect that will stop your motivation. Instead of harbouring the expectation that you’ll review 12 weeks’ worth of work in one day, break it down into manage-

Unfortunately, no matter how well you plan out your schedule, sometimes you just can’t help but resort to all-nighters. For those who are pressed for time, don’t fret, there is a method to this madness.

Start with the toughest material as it requires the most brain work. Save the easy work for the morning hours when you’re much more tired and less motivated. If you find yourself dozing off, taking short walks or relocating will help with the exhaustion.

Around 4 a.m. or 5 a.m., you will likely feel the desire to take a nap as your biological clocks kicks in. If there is time to spare, a quick 10 to 20-minute power nap should suffice.

Prior to napping, have a caffeinated beverage or snack. As caffeine takes about 20 minutes to kick in, the intake before a power nap means it will start working when you wake up. Just make sure someone is there to wake you up in case your alarm fails — we all know how tempting that snooze button is.

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2015

Editorial

• 19 OPINION EDITOR MITCHELL CONSKY mconsky@thecord.ca

Muslim hotline is necessary to make victims feel safe With anti-Islam hate crimes rising in North America, a group of local Muslim women in Kitchener developed a hotline allowing victims to report and document any confrontational incidents in the community.

This is undoubtedly an essential resource for those being tormented and oppressed by parts of their society.

Twisted political perceptions, radicalized ideologies and extreme acts of violence aren’t only the result of terrorist organizations — such implications also derive from westernized constructions that seem to justify unjust acts.

Donald Trump’s big idea to “ban all Muslims from entering American soil” certainly is a perfect example of oppressive ideals being spoon-fed by a brash political figure. Such ignorance is what ultimately fuels generalizations and indirectly gives illusive purpose to meaningless actions.

In the weeks since the Paris attacks, there have been mosques burned down, Muslim women attacked on the streets and vandalism on Hindu temples. The people being attacked are not the ones who

have been attacking — they are as innocent as those attacked by these terrorist organizations that have sparked fear in every member of the world. Societal fear of terrorism should not instigate opposing acts of violence and destruction. But because it does, this hotline is essential in the community. Not only does this resource allow the documentation of incidents, it also guides victims and their families to local agencies situated to help them in times of trouble and feelings of unsafety. It’s a great method for people to feel like they are not alone, but it shouldn’t have to exist.

These acts of aggression that have existed long before the recent heightened anti-Islam events are part of a systematic oppression that needs to change. Intensified aggression does not help the issues existing within society — rather, it makes them worse. Initiatives like this allow victims to battle through the obstructions of segregation and fight against the ignorance being directed their way. Change is needed but K-W is making strides for a welcoming environment the world should replicate.

New Years is not the only launching pad for success diet, work on a new routine, find a better inner core or just want to be happier, you shouldn’t be putting a time stamp on self-improvement.

There’s no time to wait. The perfect moment will never arise.

We as students see the new year as a beacon of hope — a getaway helicopter at the end of a battlefield of exam stress, failed expectations and general disappointment.

It’s an oasis of renewal that justifies the sudden crowding of gyms, shopping carts loaded with broccoli, long lines at bookstores and system overloads on Tinder.

Why do we all chose to change our lives in synchronization?

Holding off your goals until the beginning of the year increases chances of getting a faltered start.

We’re not saying you should run before you can walk; we’re saying there should be no delay in taking the first step.

The start of a year shouldn’t be the only highway for driving ambition forward. The road starts whenever you turn the ignition.

Check your calendars. It’s almost time to hit the gym, eat healthier, read more books, get better grades, start a life-changing project, find the love of your life and become better all around as a person.

Wait, wasn’t all of this said last year?

A hunger for self-improvement starts growling at the end of every year. Countless people look forward to another 365 days of opportunity.

The idea that the calendar is coming to an end gives a sense of finality to all of the bad or negative things we’ve done in our life, pushing people to pursue “better” when the calendar turns another year.

But why do we wait until the start of a new year to start knocking on the doors of life-changing possibility?

If you ask us, there’s no date required to unlock your potential and open up.

Instead of pondering about our deepest aspirations and deciding what will make this year different from others, jump into action. Now. Whether you’re going to start a new

These unsigned editorials are based off informal discussions and then agreed upon by the majority of The Cord’s editorial board, including the Editor-inChief and Opinion Editor. The arguments made may reference any facts that have been made available through interviews, documents or other sources.

The views presented do not necessarily reflect those of The Cord’s volunteers, staff or WLUSP.

THE CORD IS PUBLISHED BY WILFRID LAURIER UNIVERSITY STUDENT PUBLICATIONS 205 REGINA ST. N., WATERLOO

WLUSP ADMINISTRATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS CHAIR Bryan Stephens VICE-CHAIR Abdiasis Issa DIRECTOR Rafey Sattar DIRECTOR John Pehar

DIRECTOR Tom Lillo

DIRECTOR Angela Foster DIRECTOR Fred Kuntz DIRECTOR Gary Doyle

PRESIDENT Bryan Stephens president@wlusp. com FINANCE MANAGER Randy Moore randy@rcmbrooks. com ADVERTISING MANAGER Caroline Schummer care.schummer@ wlusp.com

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Lakyn Barton lakyn.barton@ wlusp.com HR MANAGER/ CORPORATE SECRETARY Emily Crump hr@wlusp.com

JOSHUA AWOLADE/CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Retailers aren’t elves BETH BOWLES FEATURES EDITOR

Since I was 16, I’ve worked retail.

This means this will be my seventh holiday season as a retail employee.

It’s a Christmas miracle I’ve been able to survive.

When I first started at the grocery store in high school, the week before Christmas, our check out lineups would be all the way to the freezer section.

Every day customers yelled at me because we were sold out of turkeys.

Impatient housewives would tell me I was too slow.

Businessmen on their BlackBerry cell phones would have me running up and down the aisles because they forgot cranberry sauce, slowing down my line even more.

It was exhausting.

This year will be my second Christmas working in a mall.

While I absolutely love my job, Christmas time for retail workers means something different than Christmas time for everyone else.

We work extended hours, go in early, stay well past the end of our shifts and train multiple new employees hired for seasonal employment.

This year, my store hired seven new employees and they all started during the same month.

Because of high volumes of customers, we didn’t have the time or the manpower to train them like we usually would in the off-season.

We give them the quick low down and send them out into the battle-

field without any armor.

I’m telling you this because customers can be real dicks around the holidays.

At the three different retail stores I’ve worked at, there seems to be the same sort of pattern.

Traffic in stores goes up and everyone is pissed.

I hate holiday shopping just as much as anybody else, but that doesn’t mean that when the local grocery store runs out of turkeys, the 16-year old cashier who is just trying to save money to go to university is the one to blame.

She probably hates being in that grocery store just as much as you do.

Even in the malls, customers don’t realize that 50 per cent of retail workers in December are temporary employees.

They’re new to the job and have most likely been poorly trained.

If they can’t find the dark wash jeans in your daughter’s size, it’s probably because it’s their second shift and management has been too busy dealing with real issues, making no time to show them where the extra jeans are stored.

Be patient, they’re doing the best they can.

The sheer volume of customers and long lineups during the holiday season is stressful enough.

Retail workers don’t need people screaming in their faces just to top it all off.

Respect is a two way street.

Today at work, I spent some time with a woman who was looking for a specific item.

We didn’t have it in stock so I checked another store for her and offered to call them and put it on hold.

This wasn’t an act of kindness.

This was me doing my job.

After, I overheard the woman

It may seem so simple, but being kind to retail workers at the busiest time of the year can really make an impact on their day.

telling my coworker how great we all are and that I gave her excellent customer service.

I spent the rest of my shift with a smile on my face, eager to help more customers.

It may seem so simple, but being kind to retail workers at the busiest time of the year can really make an impact on their day.

As you shop this holiday season, remember that — as cheesy as it may sound — the holidays are about giving and spending time with friends and family.

Retail workers are usually required to work Christmas Eve and Boxing Day. While you’re yelling at them for overcharging you at the register, remember they are people too.

They are probably missing a family dinner to work at a minimum wage job and in most situations, whatever you’re mad about is completely out of their hands.

Holiday gifts can’t happen without retail workers.

If you can’t maintain patience in the mall on a Saturday afternoon, then you do have the option to just stay at home and buy all your gifts online.

We aren’t Santa’s slaves, we’re just as human as you.

20 •

Opinion

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2015 OPINION EDITOR MITCHELL CONSKY mconsky@thecord.ca

The beautiful life of Gaby Barsky MITCHELL CONSKY OPINION EDITOR

A few nights ago one of my best friends died.

The memory of being told feels like a sudden stab in the heart.

The shower head spurts warm water over my face. There’s a knock on my washroom door. It’s my roommate. My phone had been charging back to life in the other room.

“Something terrible has happened,” he says, his face pale.

I look at him, frozen.

“Gaby Barsky got into a motorcycle accident and passed away.”

The words don’t register.

The impossible doesn’t become fathomable.

As a writer, there are few times I’m completely lost for words. In that moment, words had lost all meaning. No thought could surface in my confused mind.

Nothing was real.

Why impossible?

After all, we hear about motorcycle accidents all the time in the news. My father, a personal injury lawyer, has warned me on numerous occasions about the dangers of such “death machines.”

It was impossible because it happened to someone directly in my life — someone I could closely connect to, someone who shared the same virtues, someone who lived on the edge, someone with the greatest ambitions and brightest smile, a fraternity brother, a co-counselor, a partner in crime, a family man, an

CONTRIBUTED IMAGE

Gaby Barsky had a hunger for adventure, but a greater love for his family and friends. His memory will live on.

adventurer, an academic genius, a storyteller, an athlete, a 20-year old co-op student who was living it up in California with his newly purchased motorcycle and nothing but a bright future to look forward to.

Gaby Barsky was invincible.

But as I stepped out of the shower with all my week’s problems washing down the drain, forgotten and unimportant, I realized invincibility is bullshit.

It doesn’t exist.

No matter who you are, no matter what your goals are in life, no matter how smart, how strong, how powerful you feel you are, you are not invincible.

You’ve probably heard it before, but life really can change in a heartbeat.

For the majority of my life, I have lived life with the same perspective as Gaby Barsky. Together, we proudly conversed about the rush of going skydiving and feeling the still world beneath us as if we’re floating.

At summer camp, we would jump off the tallest cliff across the lake in our boxers — one time we linked arms and screamed at the top of our lungs “I LOVE MY BEST FRIEND!” as our bodies hit the water at different times and our heads banged into each other.

He once tried teaching me how to do a backflip. I hurt my head then too.

We’d streak any time any place — our clothes would be flying behind us as we’d take off into the winter night or at venues where alcohol

was served a little too cheap. The guy once raised a snapping turtle out of the water by the tail. He and I painted ourselves yellow and ran around the field as ‘golden snitches’ for our campers during a Quidditch game.

He’d fly through the sky on his snowboard, dash over the jungle on a zip line, bring anyone to the ground with his martial arts ability and be willing to try anything to immerse himself in a new experience.

But one night, one second of recklessness cost him everything.

It’s one thing to live on the edge.

But we must not allow ourselves to stumble off it.

Words can not describe what so many are feeling. But they can describe him.

Gaby was an inspiration. His ambition and passion drove him forward faster than any adrenaline stunt he’s ever pulled off.

His kind-hearted approach to people and his passion for life shone through with every story he told.

Some people just seem so alive, it seems impossible for the opposite to ever take over.

The heart-stabbing emotions that pour through me are simple reminders to appreciate the people in my life and take on each day with the ‘Gaby Barsky’ approach — flashing a smile, taking more than a few shots of vodka every once in a while and knowing a great story can be told.

However, this has also taught me that danger is not the true fulfillment of happiness.

A love for adrenaline and adventure is something Gaby and I had in common, but sometimes it’s better to take a cautious step back.

Sometimes it’s better to view our decisions on a greater scale, weighing the load of consequences rather than the abundance of temporary excitement.

We must not be afraid. But we must not live completely fearless.

We must know that we are not invincible.

In Gaby’s 20 years, he lived more than people who’ve reached 80 or 90.

Not because of his greatest stunts, but because of his charismatic character that forged a connection with all who have been touched by his charm.

Through these connections and this painful reminder, his dynamic presence will live on.

I lost a great friend, but gained an important lesson.

Love you man, hope you’re moving mountains up there.

Letter to the Editor Conversation of allyship I remember my first time at a gay bar.

It was a magical experience. Club Renaissance was a local legend in the K-W community and seeing their doors close was heartbreaking. Two years later and rumors sparked that uptown Waterloo would be home to the city’s newest gay club. Finally, the substantial lack of LGBTQ+ friendly spaces in the K-W community was going to be lessened. It was great; The Order is a very fun space in which individuals of diverse identities can enjoy a more LGBTQ+ inclusive environment as opposed to the Phil’s and the Chainsaws of Waterloo.

As a queer student at Laurier, though, I have a few comments in regards to the edition of The Cord that was published on November 11th, specifically surrounding the Arts & Life’s piece on stereotypes and gay clubs. The Vocal Cords question of “What stereotypes are associated with gay clubs” was painful. If I was a student that only read the Vocal Cords section, the messages conveyed in the responses to the question are doing nothing but perpetuating harmful stereotypes.

After reading those Vocal Cords, I continued on to the article entitled Straight to the Gay Club, but my outlook was already grim. “Here we go again,” I had thought. “Another cis, hetero, white dude coming in to save the day and tell the LGBTQ+ folks how their ‘lifestyle choice’ is

so exotic and alternative and cool.”

But reading through the article I was pleasantly surprised. “Everyone was themselves. And that’s what partying is all about”, was a great message to convey. Similarly, the overall message of the video piece: “It’s a very welcoming environment ... it doesn’t matter who you are, it doesn’t matter where you’re from, it’s sort of an environment that’s inclusive for all and I think that’s something that every bar can strive towards.” And I would have to agree. But there are a few bits about this piece in particular that I, as a queer student at Laurier, found a little troubling.

Although The Order is a bar that promotes acceptance and a safe space, I don’t want people to think gay clubs are a totally inclusive and welcoming environment — there are still very real issues of binge drinking, harassment and judgment that happen in gay clubs, just like it does at any other club. It is an unfortunate reality that comes with alcohol and party culture.

I submitted a Dear Life after reading the November 11th edition of The Cord because of my initial feelings towards how this topic was presented that week. I was really perturbed at the response a member of The Cord wrote back. I am a part of the queer minority the article was written about. I can understand the findings of this piece on the stereotypes of gay clubs were not meant to be eye-opening to the LGBTQ+ community (we already know that

these spaces exist) but instead were for those who have a narrow view of a community that they are not a part of. However, I was more than displeased at the fact The Cord did not seem willing to engage in conversation with students whose identities were being represented in the article and video.

While the overall messages conveyed through the article and video were of a positive note, I found the voice of LGBTQ+ individuals largely underrepresented and instead read more about what other straight folks think of the gay bar in Waterloo. It is this kind of approach that is impeding on equal opportunity for learning and conversation between different groups within a broader community.

While it can be important to have gay clubs that are catered to the LGBTQ+ community, there are other spaces that exist as inclusive environments for learning and conversation. The Diversity and Equity Office is a perfect example of that safer space on the Laurier campus. By no means can I say my opinions are the most correct, but in shutting down the opportunity to have a constructive conversation about issues that certain groups of people (in this case heterosexual and cisgender individuals) will never have to encounter, the privilege these populations hold is being used in an unconstructive way.

The article explored the stereotypes associated with gay clubs, but there is more to allyship than that.

Part of my initial reaction was to

write an opinion piece entitled Gay Girl Goes to the Straight Bar, but legitimately feared the backlash that would have received. Which brings me to the following point I hope individuals who do not identify with the LGBTQ+ spectrum will realize about the power of their privilege and the strength of their voice in a heteronormative, cisgender-normative society.

The article may have been able to open people’s eyes beyond the harmful stereotypes and for that I am grateful.

I’m sure I’m not the only one who thinks stereotypes are irritating and I thank The Cord for their efforts in deconstructing some of the ones associated with gay clubs. However, I hope individuals who read the article that have the identified ‘straight frat boy, total bro” and similar privileges use them to be an active and effective ally for LGBTQ+ individuals outside of the club scene. Ultimately, I think that is more important than exploring the party culture at gay bars. Many people may not even be aware of the power that their voice as heterosexual, cisgender individuals holds in our society. These are just some aspects of one person’s identity that are beyond control.

But what can be controlled is how that privilege is used. Instead of completely rejecting my comment in the Dear Life section, this could have been used as an opportunity to hear what the minority voice has to say about stereotypes associated

with gay clubs; how they are harmful and what can be done to alleviate them, by people that are a part of the LGBTQ+ community and those who are not.

Before Pride seasons were parades and camaraderie, they were riots.

LGBTQ+ people all around the world have been discriminated against, deemed as less than human and murdered, all for just existing. So, yes, gay clubs are a place that are inclusive and welcoming of anyone, regardless of gender, race, sexual orientation or socioeconomic status.

I hope The Cord’s article about The Order showed many people the importance of acceptance, but also allyship because that is what marginalized populations need the majority community the most.

If anyone is unsure of how to be an ally, I have two crucial steps for success: ask that community what they need from you and remember to speak up, but not over. So I hope that while people cheers to drinks on Friday or Saturday nights, everyone remembers to speak up every other day of the week too.

–Karli Ferriolo Letter policy Include your full name. Letters must be received by 12:00 p.m. noon Monday via e-mail to letters@thecord.ca.

The Cord reserves the right to edit for length and clarity or to reject any letter.

OPINION • 21

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2015

CONTRIBUTED IMAGE

Cricket is a bat-and-ball game played by approximately 120 million people, making it the second-most popular sport in the world. Despite a lack of western admiration, it is globally respected.

Cricket and North American society Why greater financial investment towards the famous sport is crucial for western appreciation and how the excitement of the game continues to be a foreign concept for those unexposed

TARIQUE PLUMMER OPINION COLUMNIST

The noise, the flags, the excitement, the passion and, undoubtedly, the obsession are just a few words which fittingly describe the euphoria around a certain sport.

It is played on a specific field with bats and other essentials. No, not baseball.

Cricket.

The technicality, the complexity and the risk all speak to the structure of the game.

Power house nations like England, Australia, South Africa, India and New Zealand more than play the sport.

The culture of their country has been shaped in part by their love of this game.

There are other countries which play, including Sri Lanka, Pakistan, the West Indies and also Bangladesh.

Interestingly, North America, whether it be the United States or Canada, is missing from the list.

Cricket has three formats: a test match which last for five days con-

The technicality, the complexity and the risk all speak to the structure of the game.

secutively, a one-day match which lasts for eight hours and a twenty20 match which is three full hours of nonstop excitement.

Matches are played between two teams and they are done throughout the year.

Teams tour each other’s countries and with them, bring thousands of fans to fill the stadium.

International cricket is the ultimate level of competition.

All players desperately try moving through the ranks of school boy cricket, to community cricket then to national, hopefully transitioning to an international team.

International cricket makes money for players.

Chris Gayle, a West Indian player, made approximately $25 million from one contract to play in a tournament for six weeks.

MS Dhoni, an Indian cricketer, makes a yearly income of over $26

There are cricket leagues all over the world which are booming.

million and like Gayle, has made the Forbes Richest People List.

Another name worth mentioning is Sachin Tendulkar, who has a net worth of $115 million.

Playing one match for three hours surprisingly generates several million dollars.

There are cricket leagues all over the world which are booming.

They make billions of dollars from

just one tournament.

With such an appealing economic gain, one has to wonder how the United States is not involved.

Historically, cricket was developed and spread by the British and so Britain colonies with strong ties to the crown adapted the sport as their own.

Cricket is played in America, but not on a large scale.

Because of this, the United States team is substandard and therefore unable to compete internationally.

The USA cricket association gets over $200,000 for their annual budget while the New York Yankees get over $300 million. For a sport to grow, the financial investment has to grow too.

Without financial growth, cricket becoming a dominant and respected sport in America is equally as likely as figure skating becoming popular in Jamaica.

Secularity versus faith Our spiritual beliefs don’t ever need to take a back seat

KANWAR BRAR OPINION COLUMNIST

FANI HSIEH/GRAPHIC ARTIST

In contemporary society, there is a lot of emphasis placed on secularism and the separation of religion and state.

From a systemic perspective, it is important to have our government institutions free of religious biases, especially because Canadians can be involved in a multitude of religions.

However, with a lot of weight being given to this concept, the importance of faith tends to be overlooked.

This trend extends to the university setting.

For many students, faith is an important part of their life. It is something they believe in profoundly and it is a core part of their being.

Religion does not have a monopoly on the concept of faith, but it plays a key role. With the promotion of secularism, it has almost become taboo to talk about a person’s religious beliefs and their faith, whether it is a

supreme being, a deity or a principle.

It’s almost treated as an ancient concept and to believe in something centuries old is regarded as old fashioned and “not with the times.” It shouldn’t be.

To discuss faith, regardless of what religion you belong to, gives people an opportunity to connect on a higher level and develop an emotional and intellectual attachment which surpasses a lot of the day-to-day conversations we tend to have.

However, it can be very difficult to start that conversation.

Many students who tend to be more religious than others have trouble initiating the conversation and finding like-minded individuals.

A potential limitation is the perception of living different lifestyles. With the excessive partying, drinking and coitus found in university settings, those engaging in the aforementioned activities tend to believe religion can’t go hand in hand.

Though this may be the case for certain individuals, it is not the case for all. This exclusive mentality leads to segregation. It is important to distinguish between those who push their beliefs on others and make them feel guilty for their actions —

many of us have run into protestors on main intersections carrying huge signs telling people they will go to hell — compared to those students who simply want to engage in a conversation about something divine and greater than themselves.

There is so much potential for inter-faith discussions as well. Because of obedience to a certain religion, it can be intimidating for someone to go up to those who belong to a different faith and engage in a discussion.

This is mainly due to the concept of “right versus wrong” differing from one religion to another. But let’s go beyond that.

Let’s find our common ground and engage in intellectual discussions which connect us as human beings.

This doesn’t exclude atheists and people who don’t follow a religion because to talk about something you believe and have faith in isn’t solely limited to religious affiliation.

There is an energy which connects us all. We have our individual interpretations on what that is but regardless, we’re all connected in one way or another.

It’s about time we start engaging in these conversations.

22 •

Sports

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2015 SPORTS EDITOR DREW YATES dyates@thecord.ca

NUTRITION

COUNTING CALORIES WITH

Sports Editor Drew Yates interviews various Laurier athletes about the importance of nutrition

LAURIER ATHLETES When an athlete commits to excellence, they must put their body as a top priority. While training is important, proper nutrition has a major part in an athlete’s performance.

How important is diet to training?

Alena Luciani, the strength and conditioning coach in Wilfrid Laurier University’s department of athletics, is the head trainer for 11 varsity teams at Laurier. Luciani cannot stress enough the importance of good eating while training.

–KATE “What are the benefits VANDERBEEK of good eating, well where do I start? It’s such a big thing in my job,” she said. “If you are not practicing good nutrition you are not going to reap the benefits from your training program if you don’t complement it with a good diet.”

“With my athletes, it’s really important to get some good quality protein, eating good carbohydrates to give them energy, and refuel that energy after a workout. Drinking water after a workout is really important for them,” she continued.

“IT’S ALL ABOUT EXPERIENCE AND WHAT’S BEST FOR YOU.”

What should athletes be eating before performing?

What is a good food for athletes? Many choose the same meal plan, incorporating the main food groups as well as whole foods that fuel an intense, active lifestyle.

Luciani stresses the importance of incorporating real, whole food — that includes a lot of vegetables and high quality sources from protein, usually from meats or dairy.

“It’s dependent on the individual, but it’s important to eat a variety of whole real foods because the less processed it is, the more efficient the body is going to break it down,” she said.

“Micro nutrients are just as important as macro nutrients.”

Swimmer Kate Vanderbeek chooses something filling but not as dense for her races and normally eats throughout the day. An example of something she usually chooses is a wrap complimented with a source of protein like eggs, something that will get her through warm ups and through the race.

On top of it, Vanderbeek also chooses some kind of fruit like an apple or a pear, and a source of fibre, ensuring to stray from density.

“I would choose something that is high carb, some protein because of the fact that my races are short in duration depending on what event I’m doing,” Vanderbeek said.

Women’s soccer player Emily Brown follows Luciani’s advice — for each meal she tries to have lots of greens, fruits and vegetables and complements each meal with water. Brown also makes sure she eats slowly over the course of the meal so that her body absorbs the nutrients.

Second-year quarterback Eric Morelli of the men’s football team also thinks nutrition is very important and has a direct correlation with his performance.

On top of eggs and peameal bacon for breakfast, Morelli also adds some vegetables like peppers and cucumbers or carrots with some protein, like chicken or beef for other meals.

“Nutrition is very important,” he said.

“It’s a big part in trying to be healthy and stay healthy for games and for practices.”

“My diet is okay. When it isn’t, it’s a direct correlation,” he continued.

Eating right on game day or race day is just as important as any other day. Morelli said eating correctly is the difference between performances on game days.

“When I eat healthy I find that I perform better instead of when I don’t eat healthy, I feel a little sluggish,” he said.

Fourth-year men’s hockey player Derek Schoenmakers of the men’s hockey team

would pick something similar to Morelli. He usually chooses something big from Angel’s Restaurant like an omelette with some sausage.

For Schoenmakers, game day is something he is most particular about.

“I like to eat four hours before a game, so for a 7 p.m. game I eat at 3 p.m.,” Schoenmakers said. “For me, personally, it’s always pasta and rice and then some combination of sausage.”

Brown said her diet is all over the place — the morning before a game, she makes a smoothie bowl with fruits and yogurt with a glass of orange juice.

To refuel herself, she would have a protein bar and a glass of milk.

Brown also stressed the importance of having three meals a day.

Final calorie count?

“IT’S A BIG PART IN TRYING TO BE HEALTHY AND STAY HEALTHY FOR GAMES AND FOR PRACTICES.”

But how many calories does it take for a Laurier athlete to perform their best, for training days and game/race days? As far as calories go, there –ERIC aren’t many differences between sports.

Schoenmakers said he aims for around 4,000 to 5,000 calories on game days, with his larger meal coming closer to the game. He will shoot for something lighter earlier in the day. On training days, Schoenmakers aims for 5,000 to 6,000 calories.

Morelli shoots for the same amount as Schoenmakers, in which he usually shoots on the high side for game days when the most amount of energy is used.

As for Vanderbeek, she goes for 5,000 to 6,000 calories on her race days, which are usually short in duration. More importantly, Vanderbeek stressed the importance of knowing your own body when it comes to nutrition — nutrition works differently for different bodies.

“It’s all about experience and knowing what’s best for you,” she said.

MORELLI

PHOTO BY WILL HUANG/PHOTO EDITOR

SPORTS • 23

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2015

FOOTBALL

From the gridiron to the classroom After a turbulent first season in the CFL, Ronnie Pfeffer returns to Laurier to finish his degree KILLIAN CUPPAGE STAFF WRITER

Ronnie Pfeffer has had quite the turbulent year.

The former Wilfrid Laurier kicker/ punter just finished his first season in the CFL and was fortunate enough to be part of the Grey Cup finalists, the Ottawa RedBlacks.

But the journey to the Grey Cup final wasn’t easy. During the 2015 CFL draft last summer, Pfeffer saw his two teammates and good friends, Chris Ackie and Ese MrabureAjufo, go in the top five. Pfeffer also watched on as running back Dillon Campbell was drafted by the Toronto Argonauts.

Pfeffer’s name was never called.

“It was tough going undrafted, having your friends and family over at your house and you didn’t get your name called,” Pfeffer said. “I was preparing myself to come back to Laurier, and have a fifth year.”

But Pfeffer would never suit up for the Golden Hawks. After an injury to their star kicker, the Toronto Argonauts signed Pfeffer just a week into the CFL season.

“I’m fortunate that the Toronto Argonauts picked me up as a free agent,” Pfeffer explained.

“The biggest thing I learned is perseverence is key.”

-Ronnie Pfeffer, kicker/punter

Pfeffer was an efficient 12-of-16 on his field goal attempts with the Argos, with his first CFL field goal being from 50 yards out in his first game against the Saskatchewan Roughriders.

Despite six impressive games with the Argonauts, Pfeffer would soon be without a team again.

“Unfortunately another down came again when their starting kicker came back from an injury and I was left without a job again.”

But Pfeffer wasn’t a free agent for long. Merely days after being released, Pfeffer signed with the Ottawa RedBlacks as their punter, finding comfort for the rest of the season.

In his first season in the Canadian professional football circuit, Pfeffer

MARCO PEDRI/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

After being a CFL finalist with the Ottawa RedBlacks, Pfeffer will return to Laurier to finish his sociology degree.

finished as a Grey Cup finalist. He’s grateful the RedBlacks gave him a chance and is thrilled to see his hard work pay off.

“Since then it has just been all up.

It shows how dreams can become reality,” he said.

An advocate for perseverance and hard work, Pfeffer has never strayed from being positive. Despite multiple times where he’s had to reroute his journey, the kicker/punter specialist

also specializes on never giving up.

“The biggest thing I learned is perseverance is key,” he explained.

“There’s times where you might get knocked down and go through an injury, or not get picked up by a team, but if you keep working hard the chance will come.”

As for the offseason, Pfeffer is coming back to Laurier to finish his degree in sociology, adding another important item to his list of acco-

lades. He hopes when his football career is done he will be able to pursue other dreams.

“I picked up my courses for next semester and I want to be able to graduate and be happy, and be relaxed knowing that I did graduate school. When football is all said and done I’ll be able to pursue my next dream,” he said. “For football I’m just going to keep working hard and strive the limit.”

HOCKEY

Success in playing together ‘Team game’ important for success DREW YATES SPORTS EDITOR

If the Wilfrid Laurier men’s hockey team wants to win more, they need to start playing a team game.

The Hawks ended the 2015 portion of their season with a 5-3 loss to the Guelph Gryphons on Dec. 3 on home ice before they upset the York Lions 5-2 the next night. This brought Laurier to an overall record of 7-9 to close out the first half.

“20 minutes is not going to be good enough to win too many games,” head coach Greg Puhalski said after the loss against Guelph.

“There’s always lessons to learn from it. It’s a tough thing for us — sometimes we’re stubborn and we don’t want to learn the lessons. We got to make sure that we learn the lesson here and make sure we’re ready from the start of the game.”

After the Hawks took a 1-0 lead against Guelph Thursday, the Gryphons answered back with three unanswered goals in the second period to take a commanding 3-1 lead after 40 minutes. Laurier battled back and tied it off a slap-shot from the point from second-year defender Matthew Francyzk in the third, but an untimely penalty against Laurier gave the Gryphons the advantage midway through the third period.

They would capitalize and that stood as the game-winning goal.

“We did lose this game on mistakes but it was nice to see the guys battle back and regroup and just come together as a team,” Francyzk said. “That was nice to see, but it should have been a better effort.”

Thursday was also the Hawks’ third annual school day game, where Laurier played in front of an electric

“There’s always lessons to learn from it. It’s a tough thing for us — sometimes we’re stubborn and we don’t want to learn.”

-Greg Puhalski, men’s hockey head coach

2993 fans. For the last two years, the Hawks played against their crosstown opponents, the Waterloo Warriors. According to Puhalski, playing against the Gryphons this year brought a different feel to the crowd than past seasons.

“Today was probably a little bit more pro-Laurier because the two previous games we played was against Waterloo. There might have been a few Waterloo fans,” he explained. “The kids were great today, just a fun atmosphere.”

“It’s always amazing having a full barn, especially with these young kids who are maybe looking to play hockey,” Francyzk said. “It’s really nice to see them come out and support us and the school and I know they look up to us as well so hopefully they got a good show.”

The Hawks pick up where they left off on Jan. 7 when they host the Toronto Varsity Blues. Puhalski said that the Hawks won’t have to change much if they want to convert some of those losses to wins come the 2016 portion.

“Just the way we ended it as far as effort, the way we need to start. No team in any league can not afford to bring their work effort,” Puhalski said.

NAC e urpos Soul P en’s Childr Choir

NAChora le Toronto a nd Soul Pur pose

Wesley Handbell s Cambrid ge

24 • SPORTS

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2015

TOP

10

MOMENTS OF 2015

The Cord’s sports staff counts down the best moments since January in Laurier sport

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Boateng wins J.P. Metras Award In only his third year with the Golden Hawks, defensive lineman Kwaku Boateng was the OUA recipient of the J.P. Metras Award, given to the player who is the “most outstanding lineman” in the conference. It speaks volumes that Boateng was awarded this in only his third year proving there are more good things to come for the lineman. –Drew Yates

After last season was cut short, the women’s soccer team won a trip back to nationals for the fifth time in six years. The club placed second in the OUA and defeated Windsor to go to the Final Four. The Hawks would defeat the powerhouse Ottawa Gee-Gees in the semifinals to earn their spot at nationals, finishing tied for seventh on the national stage. –Drew Yates

Basketball shocks powerhouse Lancers In January, the women’s basketball team shocked the OUA with a 60-53 win over the Windsor Lancers. The Lancers, who seemed invincible after winning five of the last six provincial championships and the last three national championships, were undefeated entering the game. Laurier’s veteran roster won in Windsor’s home gym. The win was the high point in the Hawks dominant regular season. –Josh Peters

Early exit stuns women’s basketball

FILE PHOTOS BY SHELBY BLACKLEY, WILL HUANG, ANDREAS PATSIAOUROS

The Hawks had their sights set on a provincial and possible national championship. However they ran into a scrappy Queen’s Gaels in the quarter-finals who came up with a strong effort and sent the game into double overtime after Hawks Whitney Ellenor missed a free throw. The game slipped away and ended the Hawks’ season. –Josh Peters

Hawks eliminated in semifinals After a season of ups and downs, the women’s hockey team found new life in the playoffs. They took down the OUA’s top team, the Queen’s Gaels, in the first round of playoffs and looked set on adding a banner to their collection. Instead, they were swept in a tight series against the Western Mustangs, spelling heartbreak for a veteran roster. The Mustangs went on to win the OUA and CIS championship. –Josh Peters

Top Hawks snagged in CFL draft

For the first time since 1970, the Wilfrid Laurier Golden Hawks saw two top prospects get drafted in the first round — Chris Ackie and Ese MrabureAjufo were picked fourth and fifth respectively in the CFL draft held last May. The two prospects join a list of 11 other Golden Hawks who have also been picked in the first round of the CFL draft and they’re the first since Shamawd Chambers went sixth to the Edmonton Eskimos back in 2012.

–Drew Yates

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Double gold for curling in OUA championship

Last February, the Laurier curling programs made history for the second time when both the men’s and women’s teams won the OUA gold medal. Finishing third in the round robin, the men’s rink went the long route through the playoffs and beat the UOIT Ridgebacks 5-3, the Brock Badgers 8-4 and the Western Mustangs 4-3. The women’s trip to OUA gold was also filled with excitement as the Hawks won the championship banner after beating Brock 5-3 in the final.

- Drew Yates

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After finishing fifth in the OUA championship last year, the women’s lacrosse team rebounded, taking fourth place this year after a season that yielded mixed results. After an impressive record ended with no medal the year before, this year was even more impressive as they sported a young roster, with 13 new rookies.

–Drew Yates

Women’s soccer goes to nationals

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Lacrosse finishes fourth in OUA

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Football’s first playoff win since 2010 For the first time in 2010, the men’s football team won a playoff game, beating the McMaster Marauders 29-15 in Hamilton. After finishing the season 4-4, the Hawks used their loss to the Windsor Lancers as motivation to book their spot in the playoffs. The Hawks defensive prowess proved to be too much for the young Asher Hastings, McMaster’s quarterback to handle and the offence took care of the rest. –Drew Yates

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Campbell sets all-time rushing record

Dillon Campbell became the all-time leading rusher at Laurier this season with a final total of 3,568 yards. The running back set the record against the Waterloo Warriors when he ran for a 29-yard touchdown in their 42-0 victory. Campbell also broke the OUA record by carrying the ball 40 times and the school single game record at 295 yards. –Daniel Johnson