The Silhouette - November 27, 2014

Thursday, November 27, 2014

S

Going to the Beaches

The words that made 2014

[PREVIEW] Marauders in Montréal

Andy sits down with one of Supercrawl 2014’s headlining performers, The Beaches.

We break down the key words that encapsulated the year as it nears its end .

Mac aims to take home its second Vanier Cup in the school’s history.

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The Silhouette thesil.ca | twitter.com/theSilhouette facebook.com/TheMcMasterSilhouette

THE

REPORT

CARD

FOUR DIRECTORS. FOUR SCORES. Your McMaster Student Union Board of Directors is eight months into their year-long term.

How effectively have their platform points been met?

- PAGE 6 -

S

LOOKING BACK

The Silhouette

Volume 85, Issue 15 Thursday, November 27, 2014 McMaster University’s Student Newspaper

EDITORIAL BOARD executive editor | thesil@thesil.ca Andrew Terefenko @andrewterefenko managing editor | managing@thesil.ca Julia Redmond @juliaeredmond production editor | production@thesil.ca Amanda Watkins @whatthekins section editors

Krista Schwab @kschwabi assistant news editor Patrick Kim @patrickmkim features editor Christina Vietinghoff @cvietinghoff opinions editor Ana Qarri @anaqarri sports editor Scott Hastie @scott1hastie assistant sports editor Laura Sinclair @Lsinkky lifestyle editor Jason Woo @jayjai223 assistant lifestyle editor Tobi Abdul @toe_bee andy editor Tomi Milos @tomimilos assistant andy editor Michael Gallagher @mikeygalgz news editor

online online editor online reporter

William Lou @william_lou Shane Madill @shanemadill art

Jonathan White photo reporter Eliza Pope @eliza_pope multimedia editor Catherine Chambers @catherineEBC video editor Colin Haskin @colinhaskin photo editor

staff reporters

Carolyn Zeppieri Sofia Mohamed Daniella Porano

Rachel Katz Daniel Arauz

Alex Florescu Michelle Yeung

interns

Inaara Sumar Anthony Manrique

silhouette intern silhouette intern

APRIL 3, 1964

VP Addresses chaotic first SRA The Student Executive Council sat down with the Student Representative Assembly in what was the first SRA meeting in McMaster history. The meeting became “bogged down in procedural difficulties,” as they were presented a motion to ratify the expenditure of $1,000 to inspect homes in the summer for student safety. The meeting was called to order a 7:30 p.m., and was closed eight hours later. Members of the SRA pushed back against the motion, opting instead fo reduce the amount in half, because they felt their purpose was “not just to ‘rubber stamp’ proposals put forth by the SEC.” The SEC counter-proposed that the SRA should not have the power to veto their recommendations.

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This is the last issue of The Silhouette this semester, but stay tuned on our website for Vanier Cup coverage. We’ll return with our inaugral 2015 issue on January 8.

Cover photo by Yoseif Haddad

The Silhouette

Thursday, November 27, 2014

News

www.thesil.ca

Engineering ExCEL building to be smaller, more expensive than planned.

3

Local Hamiltonian makes Kickstarter campaign to fund new documentary.

PAGE 5

PAGE 8

Marching band funding delayed Student group receives yearly funds three months late for second year in a row Krista Schwab News Editor

The McMaster marching band has faced several challenges this year. The most significant of these is the fact that band just received their yearly funding on Nov. 24, three months after it should have been given to the club.

Meanwhile, the group has been collecting interest on a set of drums, purchased with the intention of paying them off with the 2014-2015 funding allocation.

These funds are collected from undergraduate students as part of their supplementary tuition fees. The University collects 90 cents per student which funds equipment upgrades, travel expenses, and other costs of the McMaster marching band.

At the Student Representative Assembly meeting on Nov. 15, Miranda Clayton, President of the McMaster Marching Band, spoke out about this issue. Until Nov. 24, the band was given no indication when they would receive their funding.

That day, they received an email from the university telling the group they could come pick up their funding.

The confusion has resulted because of the dual status of the marching band – they collect a yearly fee from each student, classifying them as a non-university, non-MSU fee-collecting levy group. At the same time, they are an MSU club.

“Because we have this dual status, when I went to go talk to the university about the fact that we did not get our funding, they said talk to the MSU,” said Clayton. “When I talked to the MSU about the fact that we did not get our funding, they said talk to the university.”

This is not the first year that the funding for the marching band has been delayed. Clayton encountered the same problem last year and says that she was promised that this would never happen again.

Scott Mallon, MSU VP

The McMaster marching band is scheduled to play in five parades this holiday season.

(Finance), along with the MSU “We will have to pay $800 finance committee is now workevery two months for pracing with the university to sort tice space [off-campus],” said out this issue.

Clayton.

“It’s my understanding that This year, the McMaster the MSU gets their fee from the Marching Band is playing at university and then we pass it on to the marching band,” said Mallon.

“We just got our [allotment] at the beginning of November, our fees back from university, so we are in the process of setting everything up.”

“I’m sure that the funding will get resolved, but we are angry that it Miranda Clayton has taken this long,” said President, McMaster Marching Band Clayton.

Funding isn’t the only issue that the Marching Band has encountered. The group, which has close to 70 members, five Santa Clause parades in does not have an on-campus the greater Toronto area, and practice space. is in demand for more. In the

“

past, the marching band has participated in international competitions and even backed Serena Ryder while she played “Stompa” at the ET Canada New Year’s bash.

“We do so many things everywhere but we feel like we’re not welcome at home,” said Clayton.

“We love the student body at Mac, and what we want to do is provide a great show for everybody at Mac. But the school itself is making it so hard to do this because we don’t have the practice space.”

Despite this, the Marching Band has made some progress in its relationship with the university. Clayton is currently discussing the marching band’s

We do so many things everywhere but we feel like we’re not welcome at home.

C/O MCMASTER MARCHING BAND

role at sporting events with Athletics and Recreation, which could result in an increased presence. The marching band may also have a bigger role in Welcome Week in the future.

The university has also donated space in Bates residence for the marching band to store their instruments, which has been a major obstacle for the group in the past. “[We are only a club], which is a little bit of why we feel like we’ve had some trouble getting more respect from the institution,” said Clayton. “We do feel like we have outgrown clubs, and I have brought it up before that we should be transferred to either a service or something else. Ultimately, we need a better place within the university.” @kschwabi

4 CANADIAN CAMPUS NEWS Anthony Manrique Silhouette Intern

uWinnipeg students protest inadequate counseling services

www.thesil.ca

The University of Alberta Students Union is calling for reform on the university’s policies after Residence Services threw away a student’s belongings worth $3,500. Design student Siying Chen was visiting family in China but returned to find her possessions missing. The student apparently failed to give the required notice if she planned to leave her unit for more than 14 days. The handling of Chen’s possessions, however, was said to be within university protocol.

Guelph stabbing suspect now in custody A University of Guelph student is currently in recovery after being stabbed outside a student residence on Friday, Nov. 21.

Guelph police believe that the incident happened during a targeted robbery and the suspect, arrested on Sunday, has no affiliation to the university community.

Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver among world’s top student cities According to this year’s ranking from Quacquarelli Symonds, Montreal and Toronto are among the top ten cities around the world for students. Montreal is ranked eighth, followed by Toronto at ninth. Vancouver finished just short of the top ten, in twelfth place. The rankings are based on 18 criteria, including safety, tuition fees, and quality of living.

Thursday, November 27, 2014

SKATING ON THIN ICE On-campus Community Rink delayed until the new year

Student protesters at the University of Winnipeg presented a petition to a board of regents meeting on Monday, Nov. 24 demanding an increase for counseling service. The petition was signed by more than 10 percent of the student body, stating that one full-time counselor is not enough for students in crisis. The board approved a recommendation to look into reallocating funds towards additional counseling staff.

uAlberta student’s possessions thrown away while visiting relatives in China

News

The rink is expected to be installed between Edwards Hall and McKay Hall, near Faculty Hollow.

INAARA SUMAR / SILHOUETTE INTERN

Patrick Kim Asst. News Editor

Students will have to wait until the new year to enjoy an on-campus skating rink.

Initially projected to be installed by November, the Community Rink has been pushed back into the new year due to unforeseen delays. The project, a point on VP (Finance) Scott Mallon’s overarching year plan, involves the installation of a small public rink for students to access on campus during the winter.

“We said we’d get this rink on campus this year; we’re hoping that we still can,” said Mallon.

A number of roadblocks have prevented the rink from coming in before the Christmas break. Among the details, they’ve needed to consider the addition of lighting and barriers around the rink, along with oth-

er concerns brought forward by to be 36 by 65 feet, which is apthe Environmental & Occupaproximately the space between tional Health Support Services, the blue lines on a full-size whose approval is required for hockey rink. any initiative on campus.

Initially proposed through “We realthe Student Life ized that once Enhancement we invited Fund, the projEOHSS into it, ect was origithey were like, nally estimated ‘okay you guys at $95,000, are a little bit which covers ambitious,’ so the purchase it got pushed of the rink and back,” he said. rink cooler, as “We’re well as bringaiming for Frost ing electricity Week,” Mallon to the site and Scott Mallon said. “January adjusting for MSU VP (Finance) is ideal, but I’d uneven elevaeven be happy tions. The addiif it was open for the month of tion of lighting and barriers to February.” surround the arena, along with “I’m still optimistic that it insurance costs, will likely bring will be open in second semester the total to around $110,000. this year at some point.”

The rink will be able to be The rink is planned to be set up and struck down each located between Edwards Hall winter, and will be maintained and McKay Hall, near Faculty in collaboration between the Hollow. The rink is projected MSU and the university. Al-

“

We said we’d get this rink on campus this year; we’re hoping that we still can.

though envisioned as a potential 24-hour operation, the cost and liability associated with it will likely only allow it to be operational during the day. Amenities like skate rentals will also not be available for this first year.

“We talked about skate rentals, but that might not happen until the second year, once we’ve actually established what it’s going to be on campus.”

The rink itself will require little maintenance once installed, and will be able to stay operational for up to three days with the temperature above five degrees C. The rink is also open for expansion if there is enough positive student feedback.

“The good thing about this is if we find out there’s a huge appetite for [the rink], we can also expand it, because you can just buy more tiles to put around.” @patrickmkim

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News

Thursday, November 27, 2014

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5

Changes coming for ExCEL building Smaller space and higher costs projected for new engineering building

The new ExCEL building will be located on the south side of the John Hodgins Engineering Building .

Rachel Katz News Reporter

When the Engineering Centre for Experiential Learning initiative reached its initial $8.5 million goal last fall, both Engineering students and faculty were excited. ExCEL was designed as an outlet for students

to study, solve problems, and observe real-world applications of class material. Not only was the building proposed to contain a variety of workshop and study spaces, it was all designed to be eco-friendly. In short, the initiative is an engineer’s paradise.

At the recent McMaster Engineering Society Semi-Annual General Meeting it was announced that the Faculty of

Engineering was contributing another $2.5 million to the project, bringing the total cost to $11 million.

“They aren’t taking previous student space,” explained Ryan Rogers, the MES VP of External Affairs. “They’re adding new space for themselves.”

Rogers also explained that the Faculty and the MES are in the process of drafting agreements to ensure the Faculty

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only gets the space it has paid for, and he confirmed that the faculty being added to the building are student services who interact with the entire engineering student body.

But every paradise has its problems, and ExCEL is no exception. Former Dean of Engineering David Wilkinson’s original building proposal of 22,000 square feet was recently deemed unfeasible.

“Unfortunately no one gave him better advice on what the ‘all-in’ costs were... for example he wasn’t including building permits,” said Kelton Friedrich, the liaison between the McMaster community and design consultants.

Friedrich said the most recent drawings show the building to have a total area of 23,000 square feet, approximately 17,000 of which belong to students.

“Unfortunately the net square footage is not as much as we wanted. For example, nobody ever planned for having a big mechanical room in the basement, so that costs money to build,” he said.

Friedrich projected the final design will be between 21,000 and 25,000 square feet.

This diminished amount of student space has angered some engineering students. When the initiative was first proposed three years ago, the MES had a referendum on whether or not to begin collecting a $50 fee from students to contribute to the building costs. This was before any design plans were released, and some students feel cheated because the Faculty began collecting this levy before any of the building’s details were set in stone.

The details are still not confirmed. According to Rogers, the schematic design phase of the project extends

JON WHITE / PHOTO EDITOR

into December of this year, after which point the size and layout of the building will be finalized.

Design development will be complete by the end of March.

Contractors will have final blueprints by October 2015, and a year from now construction is set to begin. Rogers said that the project is on schedule.

“The goal of the building has always stayed the same… and that is to support students through experiential learning,” said Friedrich.

He maintained that ExCEL will focus on dynamic, active learning environments where students can share their ideas and work collaboratively, and even between different engineering departments.

Rogers was also adamant that the reduced space will not affect the building’s potential to house student innovation.

“All each floor is lacking is 500 square feet,” he said.

In order to add that relatively small amount of space, the array of environmentally friendly features would be compromised.

Friedrich was adamant that the changes to the building’s size will not reduce the features designed to give engineering students a better understanding of how the building works, such as plexi-glass floors in places so the building’s foundations are visible.

Since the project is still in a phase where elements can be changed, Rogers confirmed that the MES welcomes any student concerns.

“We’re their eyes and ears on the building board and we want to ensure that the building reflects their goals and aspirations for the project.” @RachAlbertaKatz

6

Feature

www.thesil.ca

Krista Schwab News Editor

Patrick Kim Assistant News Editor

Ana Qarri Opinions Editor

Christina Vietinghoff Features Editor

TEDDY SAUL, MSU PRESIDENT

Thursday, November 27, 2014

MSU DIRECTOR

Teddy Saull is the President and Chief Executive Officer of the McMaster Students Union. As the spokesperson for the MSU, the President represents the student body and advocates for its needs to the university administration, Hamilton community, and national organizations.

Outlined in a letter to the MSU at the beginning of his term, Saull’s mission statement can be summarized with two key ideas: community and a focus on the positive. This has indeed come to define many of his goals, and there have been varying degrees of success in his initiatives.

JACOB BRODKA, VP ADMINISTRATION Jacob Brodka is the Vice President Administration and he is responsible for supporting the managers that operate the Student Union’s services.

He is also one of the key coordinators of Welcome Week and assists SRA members with training and projects.

The VP (Admin) is also unique in having discretion to pursue projects of personal interest like sustainability or leadership development.

His enthusiasm has led to 23 objectives, leaving him with insufficient time to dedicate to many of the important administrative tasks of the VP (Admin), like providing year plan templates to PTMs. Jacob’s year plan was only added to the VP Admin page on the MSU website when The Silhouette contacted him about it on November 25th, eight months into his term.

PLATFORM LEGEND COMPLETED

CANCELLED

STATUS OF PLATFORM POINTS •

MSU Clubza

•

Participatory Budgeting

•

Exam upgrades

•

Off-campus safety

•

Peer Tutoring Network

COMMUNICATION

Saull is largely absent on social media: he is not present on Facebook, and his Twitter is only used as a personal account.

“I think students would probably appreciate it if I was on Facebook, because then you could just search me up and send me a message... [but] it’s not the way I like to communicate,” he said. “I think people get the real version of me when we meet, rather than the quick, censored, typed version.”

But as the voice and representative of the entire student body, the President should have better and more convenient avenues to communicate with students than through email and in the Student Centre.

Although Saull has taken up the unique initiative of engaging students in the Student Centre for an hour once a week, better methods could be pursued.

DELAYED

FULFILLING JOB DESCRIPTION

In his own mission statement, Saull described his primary goal in bringing together the community.

He’s been successful in bringing small initiatives and improvements to students in CLUBZA and exam upgrades.

Meanwhile, his largest plans are still in progress; the outcome of the expanded Student Life Enhancement Fund and Frost Week will give a better picture of his work as President.

This year, SLEF has seen a 400 percent increase in student idea submissions, so the returns appear to be positive.

But Saull has yet to prove himself on his biggest initiatives and ideas in bringing the community together. His approach to community has indicated a somewhat insular view of the student body, and the response to the year end celebration was a demonstration of the misplaced direction he initially struck.

Overall, the unique, and perhaps inefficient choices Saull has made in terms of engaging the community have yet to hit their mark. Although he has had success in achieving his platform points so far, Saull’s biggest promises – Frost Week, peer tutoring network, and now the year end celebration – are still on the horizon.

BRODKA’S FINAL GRADES

STATUS OF PLATFORM POINTS

ACHIEVING PLATFORM GOALS: B-

•

Revamp MSU Committee workspace

COMMUNICATION: C

•

New Welcome Week rep training

FULFILLING JOB DESCRIPTION: C

•

Conduct space audit in November

•

Facilitate and collect year plans from part time managers

OVERALL:

C

SAUL’S FINAL GRADES ACHIEVING PLATFORM GOALS: A COMMUNICATION: BFULFILLING JOB DESCRIPTION: B OVERALL:

B+

•

Conduct sustainability audit

•

Text-based peer support

•

Women and Gender Equity Network launch

COMMUNICATION

Communication with the VP (Admin) has been problematic. Part-time Managers report difficulty getting in touch with Brodka by email, and despite an open door policy, some say they have difficulty finding him in his office even when his calendar says he is unoccupied.

During the VP elections Brodka promised untraditional office hours, like working at the

seating area in MUSC to engage students. Although he did this during the summer, since school started he hasn’t done this as much.

“That’s very tough, it’s a lot easier said than done,” said Brodka.

On the positive side, Brodka is said to always be courteous and respectful in person and willing to put aside his work to talk to people that visit his office, when he’s there.

FULFILLING JOB DESCRIPTION

Brodka has not accomplished some key responsibilities of the VP (Admin). For example, parttime managers were not asked to create year plans.

“The number one priority for someone in this position is to simply work with your parttime managers to make sure their services are going well and that they feel supported,” said Brodka. However, some part-time managers report not feeling this sense of support.

He also acknowledges that he hasn’t taken on any special projects of areas of passion like past VPs, instead taking on many small projects.

“Something like working to get text-based peer support or a number of smaller things that were incorporated into my year plan,” he said.

Feature

Thursday, November 27, 2014

www.thesil.ca

7

REPORT CARD Have the Board of Directors lived up to their fall term responsibilities?

SCOTT MALLON, VP FINANCE

RODRIGO NARRO PEREZ, VP EDUCATION

Scott Mallon is the Vice President Finance. Before his role in the MSU, Mallon was an Honours Commerce student, has been an SRA member, Residence Orientation Representative, and President of the Ocoa Community Outreach Association.

Mallon ran with the intention to focus on revitalizing MSU businesses through providing the most value to students.

Rodrigo Narro Perez is a recent graduate of the Integrated Science program and the MSU’s current Vice President Education. Before taking on this role, he served as a Student Representative for the Faculty of Sciences and the University Affairs Commissioner for the MSU. This year, Narro Perez ran on a platform of enhancing external advocacy, strengthening McMaster-MSU collaboration and improving resources for student support.

STATUS OF PLATFORM POINTS •

Ontario Undergraduate Student Alliance

•

Mental Health and Wellness advocacy

•

MSU federal advocacy

•

MSU municipal advocacy

•

Advocacy for TA Training

•

Course Wiki, for students to comment on courses

COMMUNICATION

Narro Perez ran two impressive “MacVotes” campaigns for the provincial and municipal elections. All major candidates were brought to McMaster for a debate, in addition to running a successful campaign to place #MacVotes lawn signs in neighbourhoods with large student populations.

Narro Perez has been quoted on several occasions in major newspaper articles around issues of post-secondary education showing his active involvement in field.

Through the summer, Narro

Perez says that he held focus groups to hear student voices on mental health. When he was in Ottawa the week of Nov. 17 talking to federal political leaders, a link for students to share stories was posted on social media.

When asked about the last minute call for stories, Narro Perez said, “it wasn’t late in the game. We’ve done roundtables in the summer. We can give them the facts, but because they are just human too, you need to have the stories.”

Narro Perez has been extremely cooperative with The Silhouette, always open to conducting interviews.

FULFILLING JOB DESCRIPTION

Ultimately, the VP (Education) is the chief advocate of the MSU, serving to amplify the student voice through a research-based approach. Narro Perez has done an excellent job with external advocacy given the barriers that he has faced.

He has supervised several awareness campaigns with the help of the MSU Advocacy Street Team, and played active roles in most aspects of his job.

NARRO PEREZ’S FINAL GRADES

STATUS OF PLATFORM POINTS •

Participatory budgeting in place

by September

•

Underground Front of house updates

by September

FULFILLING JOB DESCRIPTION: A

•

Value menu at TwelvEighty by September

OVERALL:

•

Community rink operational by November

•

Green bin campaign begun by fall term

•

TwelvEighty to run alternative programming

ACHIEVING PLATFORM GOALS: ACOMMUNICATION: A

A

MALLON’S FINAL GRADES

COMMUNICATION ACHIEVING PLATFORM GOALS: BCOMMUNICATION: AFULFILLING JOB DESCRIPTION: B+

OVERALL:

B

Mallon has been very successful in communicating his plans and encouraging financial understanding. Active on Twitter and Facebook, Mallon appears to be open to communication.

Mallon’s page on the MSU website is fully updated with his plans for the current year. The MSU’s financial audit is also available on the MSU website, with a short summary that explains, in simple language, the

MSU’s budget, fees, and surplus.

In terms of internal communication, Mallon has been active in communicating to the rest of the Board of Directors. However, he does admit that some improvements can be made with other internal communication.

FULFILLING JOB DESCRIPTION

The Silhouette contacted staff from CMFU radio, Union Market, Underground Media and Design, and MacGreen, who all spoke positively about Mallon’s efforts as VP Finance.

“I’ve tried to follow up my timeline – once a month or every couple of weeks I’ll open up my original platform points and year plan and go through it and actually see if I’m doing what I’m saying,” said Mallon “In terms of that, I realize that some stuff has kind of veered but that’s just the nature of the job –you can’t do everything you say you are going to do because there are roadblocks that come up.”

Thursday, November 27, 2014

News

Capturing Kenilworth Kickstarter campaign will fund documentary on Hamilton street

www.thesil.ca

8

All about that bass Abi Kirubarajan Meducator Columnist

Daniel Arauz News Reporter

Many Hamilton neighbourhoods have seen a gradual facelift in the last few years, but the “new” Hamilton still has many communities, particular in the East end of the city, that are being left behind. After a recent shooting in the Kenilworth Avenue community, filmmaker Alex Djordjevic who lives in the area decided to take action, and is now in the process of filming his documentary Kenilworth Alex Djordjevic, filmmaker and Kenilworth resident C/O ALEX DJORDJEVIC highlighting the story of the east end street and the challengdocumentary film. a community that needs ecoes facing this long-neglected The short documentary nomic revitalization, but is still community. will explore the problems facing sensitive to gentrification.

Djordjevic devised the a neighbourhood that Djord“I really want it to be very now fully-funded Kickstarter jevic believes to be at its lowest inclusive and resemble many campaign after a former Hell’s point in all the years he spent different perspectives: the Angel biker gang member was as a community member. The residences, the business owners, shot right outside the the governing body of salon his girlfriend owns Hamilton… I want it to be on Kenilworth. very inclusive by asking a “My girlfriend has lot of questions to a lot of been there for seven people,” he said.

I really want it to be years. Our last and Djordjevic is keeping final straw was when very inclusive and many of the details under the shooting happened,” wraps, but did note that he resemble many different Djordjevic said. is preparing for an interYet even before this perspectives: the view with outgoing Hamilshooting, east-end comton mayor Bob Bratina. munities like Kenilworth residences, the business The documentary were synonymous with owners, the governing raised $601, exceeding troublesome landlords, its original $500 goal in crime, poverty, and high body of Hamilton. just under a month, and vacancy rates. These Alex Djordjevic is slated for a release early highly visible problems next year. Djordjevic is have been well known Documentary filmmaker hoping that the film will be across Hamilton, often screened throughout the giving these areas a film aims to raise awareness and city, including at the Westdale negative reputation in the more advocate for change in the comTheatre. upscale areas of the city. This munity by exploring the lives “This is a Hamilton project, project will mark one of the of a diverse set of residents and and I want it to be for Hamiltofirst times this has ever been business owners. Kenilworth is nians, by Hamiltonians.” acknowledged in the form of a

“

From Caribbean reggae to Indian raga, almost all music uses higher pitches for melodies while bass-ranged instruments manage the rhythm. Laurel Trainor, Director of McMaster’s Institute for Music and the Mind, set out to discover why this happens and what this means for music as a whole.

Her team analyzed how humans detect rhythm through observing individuals exposed to offbeat music. In the experiment, her colleagues played both high and low pitched piano notes to over thirty subjects. Occasionally, the notes were played offbeat by only fifty milliseconds.

The majority of individuals were able to detect the offbeat rhythm more often in the lower tone, in comparison to the higher tone. Next, her colleagues asked the subjects to tap their fingers along to the beat of the tonal sequences.

Again, when the offbeat timing occurred, the individuals were more aware of the lower piano notes and adjusted their finger tapping accordingly.

The researchers also measured the subjects’ electroencephalography activity during the experiment. Electrical activity in the auditory cortex increased significantly in response to the offbeat low notes. To confirm their results, the researchers ran the tonal sequences through a computerized model of the ear, whose output correlated with the neural activity in the auditory nerve. The simulation also demonstrated heightened neural activity during the timing errors of the lower musical notes, in comparison to the higher notes.

“Virtually all people will respond more to the beat when it is carried by lower-pitched instruments,” Trainor said.

This research suggests that it is easier for listeners to discern rhythms in deeper bass notes, providing a physiological foundation to music.

Today’s music industry makes the most out of this phenomenon. While a prominent bass is prevalent across multiple music genres, this is most evident in electronic dance music and dubstep. Ultimately, it is the bass rhythm that compels listeners to follow along to the beat. The bass “drop” refers to the point in the track at which a switch of the bass line occurs, thus changing the rhythm of the song.

Our ears are so sensitive to slight shifts in bass rhythms that a recognizable build of tension usually precedes a bass drop.

“There is a physiological basis for why we create music the way we do,” said Trainor.

By Levin C. Handy (per http://hdl.loc.gov/loc.pnp/cwpbh.04326) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

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News

Thursday, November 27, 2014

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The Silhouette

www.thesil.ca

Editorial

S

Thursday, November 27, 2014

QUOTE OF THE WEEK K.J. Parker Author (Pseudonym)

“In politics, it’s what isn’t said that matters.”

Grade of the Union We graded your Board of Directors, but what if we graded the McMaster Student’s Union as a whole?

Andrew Terefenko Executive Editor

When all is said and done, we gave the Board of Directors grades based on how well they performed twothirds through their term. The results varied, but we feel they received a score that adequately reflects the quality and consistency of the work they did. Keeping this in mind, it is important to remember that the B.o.D. are only four arms on a much larger organization, the McMaster Student’s Union. How would it look if we graded the MSU as a whole on its performance this year?

Initiatives

The MSU has made great strides in highlighting persistent student issues and creating programs to try and combat those issues. One such program is Mental Health Awareness week. Many students struggle with issues of depression and stress in the later months of the first term, and initiatives such as this one show that the MSU is putting student needs first. There is still a great ways to go when it comes to helping students with mental health problems, but the MSU can only do so much on their own, and it is a step in a very necessary direction.

The Student Life Enhancement Fund is another example of a stu-

dent-empowering initiative that has hit some milestones this year. It is a program that lets students decide what to do with student money, and this year they’ve seen an incredible amount of SLEF idea submissions, which shows that students have taken notice and want to be engaged.

but it it isn’t an easy notion. Easily one of the MSU’s worst aspects.

to getting a T for tastefully adequate

Communication

to the Sil Washroom Challenge

A running theme in all of the Director reviews was that they had issues communicating with their constituents. This is not an issue exclusive to the Board, unfortunately. The MSU The Red Tape as a whole has often had difficulty communicating with students and One of the issues that plagues the getting their message across. lifetime of any initiative or idea is the The MSU could only amount of bureaubenefit from devotcracy that surrounds ing more resources getting anything towards making done in the MSU. communication a The sheer amount of The sheer amount priority. That kind boards and assemof boards and of movement would blies and ratifying assemblies make certainly resonate councils that an idea with the B.o.D. and it very difficult for has to go through only help to serve make it very difficult students to see any students at the end for students to see tangible results. of the day. There’s any tangible results no point in students in a reasonable time putting together these frame. great projects if nobody knows about An idea is brought up by a stuthem, and this takes advantage of dent. An SRA member takes that student’s idea to assembly. The motion is them. approved and the Directors take that idea to Executive Board. The Executive Board makes a reccomendation The MSU deserves a decent grade on how to proceed and from there it for the great work its been doing. can go on to any number of faculty but it shouldn’t be taken as a “good councils, senate committees, or even enough,” but more as a “we expect just get lost in student politics limbo better from you.” in which ideas stagnate forever.

But it is not just the Board’s MSU. It would be worth their time to It is — your — MSU, and you should try and prune down the amount of want it to have the kind of grade your obstacles that are present to spending parents would put on the fridge. student money on student projects,

“

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to Ana, the Sil Washroom Challenge Champion to secret Santa to being the life of the party to using numbers we don’t understand to cheap Vanier Cup bus tickets to the onset of a long-needed break

to boiled milk to lying awake at night to playing by the rules to the game of Life to missing editors.

Please call us if you find them to markers that soak through even relatively thick paper to only a few more weeks with the interns

to the end of classes

to forgetting this week’s motivational meeting quote

to Krista’s tremendous threepointer

to the lack of eggnog at supermarkets

to our tenacious distro guy

to sold out Smash adapters

Rejected Headlines of the Week

“Four scores and eight months ago” “Is another another Vanier in the cards?”

“Marching Madness” “What sex is tex-mex?”

“Movie quotes List-mas”

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www.thesil.ca

Thursday, November 27, 2014

www.thesil.ca

11

The McMaster Students Union

PRESIDENT’S PAGE BETTER SERVICE, BIGGER FROST WEEK Winter (and exam season) is coming! Last week, on this very page, I outlined many of the projects that currently occupy my time.

This week, I would like to give you some details on how the McMaster Students Union (MSU) hopes to help ease some of the stress of the always-difficult exam period.

Finding a quiet place to study, particularly during nights and evenings, has

always been extremely difficult. However, beginning December 2, study space will no longer come at a premium, as Thode Library will extend its hours to remain open 24/7. Food will also be available until midnight at The Reactor, located inside Thode.

Staying both mentally and physically healthy is key during exams. Thus, I am happy to say that the David Braley Athletic Centre and

The Pulse will operate on their longest exam schedule ever, not shortening their operating hours until December 15.

Let’s now look ahead to a time past the drudgery of exams, into the bright eyed future of January. I have repeatedly said that a larger Frost Week, something akin to Welcome Week in the snow, is a goal of mine. I am pleased to say that come January, there will be some-

thing for everyone during Frost Week 2015, including a week of events that will culminate with Frost Fest on the Friday, and the Frost Week concert on the Saturday. Frost Week details, which are both delicious and numerous, will be available online in the near future. For now, check out the graphic below for some highlights of what you can expect during our first week back in January.

Exam upgrades The David Braley Athletic Centre (DBAC) will maintain regular hours one week longer this year, until December 14th.

DBAC will be open weekdays from 6:00am-11:30pm and weekends from 8:00am-9:30pm. Beginning December 15th, DBAC will close at 10:30pm on weekdays, and will be open 8:30am-4:30pm on weekends.

Thode library will remain open 24-7 starting December 2 until the end of the exam period - the longest a library has ever remained open. In addition, Hospitality Services will run The Reactor inside Thode on extended hours. Beginning December 6, The Reactor will open on weekends and stay open until midnight on weekday nights until December 16.

The McMaster University Student Centre (MUSC) is open 24-7. All lounges and common areas, including ClubSpace, will remain open and available for small group study. Also, MUSC meeting rooms on the second and third floor will be available for individual silent study until midnight throughout the exam period. For more info visit MUSC room 222.

The MSU Student Health Education Centre (SHEC) will be running stress busters during exams from December 4th until December 11th. Events include hikes, free snacks and drinks, yoga sessions, and visits from adorable SPCA dogs.

For more information, check out msumcmaster.ca/shec

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The President’s Page is a space sponsored and used by the McMaster Students Union (MSU) Board of Directors (BoD) to communicate with the student body. It functions to highlight the Board’s projects, goals, and agenda for the year, as well as the general happenings of the MSU.

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12

www.thesil.ca

Around Campus

Around Campus

Thursday, November 27, 2014

Eliza Pope Photo Reporter

“What are you most looking forward to over the holidays?”

“It would be coming home after a long time of not being home - I

especially miss my dad a lot. He makes these really bad jokes and stories that really piss me off. But I’m really happy to have him piss me off. He also always smiles when I come home, and he looks like Santa Claus with these big puffy red cheeks and white beard, so that warms my heart. Just thinking of seeing them is getting me through the next 20 days of awfulness.”

“Let’s hear one of his stories.”

“Well this one time, he tried to convince my boyfriend that the way

to feel better after a cold was to take a shot of vodka with black pepper. But we’re talking Russian shots, which were apparently 150 mL and a ton of pepper - apparently that got him through any sickness when he was in the army. So if you need a Russian remedy for a cold... take my dad’s word for it. Vodka and black pepper.”

“What’s the toughest thing about being here while your family is back in Nigeria?”

“I think basically the idea that you are living alone, and that very soon you will start your main adult life. You try to grow up and get your adult life to raise your own family. As a guy, and because I am first-born, I have to think about doing well so I can provide for my family.

For me, I take it upon myself to do well so that I know I can take care of my family.”

“What’s your favourite holiday memory?”

“My favourite thing that we do as a whole family is we have our Star Wars marathon. So every single Christmas Day we watch Star Wars and the Sound of Music. I could not imagine Christmas without it.”

“What’s one thing you’ve learned this semester?”

“I would say leave time for the little things.

Because that’s what makes up your university experience. Especially when you’re really busy, don’t forget to make the most of the unplanned.”

“Can you tell me a bit about each other?”

“She doesn’t look it, but she’s a heavy gamer.”

“He’s incredibly Catholic, but makes a lot of inappropriate jokes.”

“You make me sound like a horrible person...”

“Oh, he’s also single and also looking for a girlfriend. You should put that in.”

Around Campus

Thursday, November 27, 2014

www.thesil.ca

13

“I can give you guru wisdom for free.”

“Let’s hear it!”

“Don’t look for happiness, because in everything there has to be a balance. So if you look for happiness, inevitably you’ll find sadness. You need to detach yourself and find that balance between happiness, joy and sadness. Only then will you find true happiness.”

“So have you found true happiness?”

“No, I haven’t. Why? Because too many things make me happy right now. And it might sound strange but that is a problem because eventually you lose something, and then what? We become so attached to the things that bring us joy that when we lose them, that’s where the pain comes from. So I’m not happy right now, because I’m happy.”

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Movember Party

SRA Meeting - SRA 14K

MacSwing Dance

When: November 27, 2014 from 07:00PM until 09:00PM

When: November 30, 2014 from 06:30PM until 09:30PM

When: December 02, 2014 from 07:00PM until 09:00PM

Where: TwelvEighty Bar & Grill

Where: Gilmour Hall 111

$2 cover before 11PM. $4 rails and domes-

Interested in finding out what your

Where: Westdale United Church (99 North Oval)

tic beer all night. Featuring DJ Jet Carson.

student government does? Stop by and

Come share a night of dancing with the

view the goings-on at the next meeting of

McMaster Swing Dance Club. After all,

the Student Representative Assembly!

great music is timeless, and swing danc-

Maroons Formal (Starry Night: First Year Formal) When: November 28, 2014 from 08:00PM until 01:00AM

Email speaker@msu.mcmaster.ca for more information.

ing is not just something your grandparents do! Start with an introductory lesson in lindy hop at 7PM to help get you grooving and stay for the social dancing

OPIRG McMaster Annual Open House

to great big band music and jazz.

which is a short walk into Westdale from

students and guests, all ages). Appetizers

When: December 01, 2014 from 11:00AM until 04:00PM

and desserts are provided.

Where: MUSC 229

Where: Art Gallery of Hamilton (123 King Street West Hamilton, L8P 4S8 This event is open to everyone (McMaster

OPIRG McMaster cordially invites you to

July Talk When: November 29, 2014 from 08:30PM until 12:00AM Where: Compass Information Centre Student ticket holders must present their McMaster ID and government age of majority card at the door. Guest students must be 19+, present government age of majority card at the door, and must be signed in by a McMaster student.

our Annual Open House on Monday, December 1 from 11 am until 4 pm in MUSC 229.

Come make merry and enjoy good food and good folks!

For every visitor, OPIRG McMaster will donate a twoonie to Atzin Community Development, working with the Indigenous community of Tlamacazapa, Mexico. The donation will go towards the Scholarship Program for Youth. Education, a central pillar of Atzin programming, can spark a way out of poverty and violence.

For more info: opirg@mcmaster.ca

\We meet at Westdale United Church campus. First time is free so come give it a try. Student memberships are $10/ semester for our weekly dances. New members are always welcome!

The Silhouette

Thursday, November 27, 2014

Opinion

www.thesil.ca

15

Is the man bun here to stay? Find out what Mac students think.

PAGE 16

“SOAP CAUSES CANCER!” And other lies the media tells us Allison Ouellette Contributor

“Soap causes cancer!” screamed numerous news outlets this week. The findings from a study produced by researchers from the University of California have been grossly exaggerated.

The university’s press release, “The Dirty Side of Soap,” misrepresents the study’s results. It claims that triclosan, a common antimicrobial agent in hygiene products, “causes liver fibrosis and cancer in mice.”

By exaggerating the scope of the research, the press release misleads readers, including journalists.

Shortly after the press release was published, fear-mongering articles from popular news sources arose.

They unduly warned readers that triclosan could harm their health. One source called the research a “cancer scare.” Others falsely reported the findings as conclusive and exaggerated the study’s relevance to humans.

Many writers distorted the scope of the research to the extent that the “facts” in their articles barely resemble the study’s conclusions.

Contrary to the university’s press release and several online articles, the researchers did not conclude that triclosan causes cancer in mice. The researchers found that large amounts of ingested triclosan may promote tumour growth in mice.

To observe triclosan’s effect on tumour growth, the researchers injected mice with a chemical (diethylnitrosamine) that is capable of inducing liver cancer.

In a separate group of mice, the researchers found that ingested triclosan can lead to liver damage.

The study results cannot be applied to humans. Although mice are used to model human disease, some chemicals that are toxic to mice may not be toxic to humans. As the authors of the study recommend, longterm observational studies in humans must be conducted before triclosan’s effect on humans can be understood. Also, since people do not eat large amounts of triclosan as the mice did in the study, the results observed in the mice are not reasonable to expect in humans.

Although the study does not provide enough evidence to condemn antibacterial soap,

“

Shocking and overblown headlines commit a disservice to readers.

consumers may want to reconsider purchasing antibacterial soaps for other reasons. Though triclosan and other antibacterial agents are useful to healthcare workers, Health Canada notes that antibacterial soap is usually unnecessary in the home. Further, when triclosan is washed down the drain, it may cause environmental damage. Triclosan in toothpaste, however, can significantly prevent plaque and gingivitis, according to the Cochrane Review.

The study was published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, a scientific journal. According to standard practice, to access an article

in the journal, one must either belong to an organization or institution that purchases a subscription, or pay for access to the article. Consequently, most people do not have access to articles published in journals.

Even if the public were granted access to journals, articles would still be inaccessible. Few people possess enough scientific literacy to interpret and evaluate a biological study.

Most people rely on writers and journalists to identify and publicize important research findings.

It is the responsibility of science correspondents to be scientifically literate and com-

mit to reporting findings accurately. They must critically evaluate a study and understand the significance of findings before they can communicate truthfully. Just as ignorance of the law is not an excuse for committing a crime, lack of scientific literacy is not an excuse for distributing false information.

Shocking and overblown headlines commit a disservice to readers. Exaggerated research findings may serve to boost traffic to websites, increase research funding, or sway consumers to purchase certain products. None of these reasons justify invoking gratuitous fear in readers.

The latest research does not demonstrate whether triclosan negatively affects human health.

It is unethical to claim otherwise. The media must uphold the integrity of science to produce ethical journalism. Fear mongering and sensationalizing disrupts the shared foundation of science and journalism: to report truthfully.

Learning for the sake of learning Stephen Clare Contributor

I’ve been to every lecture of GEOG 3EE3. I’ve taken good notes, reviewed them regularly, and understand the course material. I’ve even gone to the professor’s office hours a few times.

Please don’t tell the Geography department.

You see, I guess, technically speaking, I’m not actually in the course, per se. Like, it doesn’t show up on my timetable or SOLAR. I also haven’t done any assignments or written any tests. The registrar’s office wouldn’t be able to tell you where I learned about the physics of solar heating or the future

of global oil demand.

I honestly tried to get into the course, but repeated emails and course waiver submissions fell on deaf ears (or rather, blind eyes) and the drop/add date passed without me being able to register. I was disappointed, because the course content is super relevant to my capital-F, capital-P “Future Plans.”

So, I thought, screw them.

What are they going to do, drag me out of the lecture hall? I just took the class anyway.

I attended lectures, took good notes, and checked up on my fantasy hockey team while the professor gave advice about assignments and reminders of upcoming test dates. Instead of furiously copying the minuti-

ae of each slide, I noted what interested me and ignored what I found boring. For homework I browsed articles on whatever concepts struck my fancy rather than writing lab reports and article summaries.

“Taking” GEOG 3EE3 has been positively relaxing.

It’s made me think about how often I’ve let going to school get in the way of me learning things. We’ve all been there, robotically putting pencil to paper and mirroring the writing on the chalkboard while our thoughts turned to the Leafs’ latest embarrassment or what exactly she meant by “see you later” (like “later tonight” later or just “see you around” later?). Some days you can fill

a page of notes without even knowing what course you’re in.

That’s why it’s been so nice to learn for the sake of learning rather than learning for my degree. It’s a whole different mindset, like the difference between opening up a novel and opening up a textbook. These are the same classmates, the same powerpoint designs, the same sickly yellow glow barely illuminating the same grim lecture halls. It’s just that I love this room when I’m left to focus on the material, but resent it when learning carries the added pressure of knowing all-important marks are on the line.

Obviously there’s a big, scary system that needs us to do assignments and write tests. It’s

a machine that eats transcripts and craps scholarships. And like all horrible, impersonal systems it makes us feel small and powerless.

But there’s joy and value in the learning itself. And at university, I’m surrounded by thousands of people that know a whole lot and do this weird thing where on a weekly basis they stand at the front of a room and just talk about what they know. It’s good to hear them talk. It’s good to learn from them.

Sometimes, it’s just good to know stuff.

16

Opinion

www.thesil.ca

Thursday, November 27, 2014

Confronting the cheating epidemic Rob Hardy Contributor

Earlier this year, new reports on cheating at Canadian universities circulated online, along with CBC's re-airing of its documentary Faking the Grade.

I decided to take a deeper look at the issue since it serves as a flashpoint for the state of higher education and how seriously students take the privilege of attending university. It was also around this time when one of my professors called out the class on Avenue2Learn, announcing discoveries of plagiarism.

I found the accounts more surprising and depressing than I could have ever imagined. Exact statistics to reveal the full scope of the problem are very hard to estimate. However, a CBC survey of 54 Canadian universities showed that 7,086 students were disciplined for cheating in the 2011-2012 school year. This may not seem like a lot, but 12 of the universities declined to give their stats. Then, factor in cases which did not progress to actual disciplinary action.

But most importantly, factor in those students who go undetected. So it's not a shock that the documentary states that 50 percent of university students admitted to cheating, hinting that whatever the actual number really is, it is undoubtedly extremely significant.

There are many reasons why these revelations are disturbing.

First of all, cheaters are passing themselves off as something they are not. Anyone who has cheated three times would most certainly be expelled from school, and if one has received a degree and bypassed detection, it's undeniable that these people

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falsely hold this credential. To be fair, though, academic dishonesty can cover a wide range of offences, some of which are not cheating. But it is clear here that we are mainly dealing with those harbouring intentions to deceive.

Another ethical problem is that with so many people cheating we have an exceptionally high number of people arbitrarily choosing which rules they deem important and which they feel no guilt about breaking. The cheater also wishes to break rules they want others to follow so that they can benefit at their expense.

For academic purposes, the extent of cheating in universities necessitates us to realize that having a degree doesn’t mean that one is “highly educated.” In fact, with the overabundance of degree holders in the job market it is disconcerting to admit how many of them are frauds.

But with a bachelor’s degree being more crucial than ever, it is inevitable that education has become even more of a commodity. This drives the standard for doing whatever it takes, ironically raising the bar further, and pushing us even harder. Cheating normalizes these unrealistic expectations by creating the illusion that a much higher number of people are succeeding than is actually the case. Though fair marks don't mean you'll clean toilets, these do mean being several rungs below your peers.

The things I read while trying to get a handle on this problem were enough to make one cynical. The videos online, for instance, of “students” sharing methods to cheat your way through school were particular-

JON WHITE/PHOTO EDITOR

ly disgraceful.

But as distasteful as this all is, what ought to be done about it?

Cheating is as old as humankind and will always be here in some form. To try to eradicate it is a huge waste of time, though we can be vigilant and guard against a slippery slope. Though it's definitely worth discussing, solutions seem to be out of reach.

I think what's more important is to try to determine what our attitudes towards cheating are. Consider a brilliant, caring doctor who grossly cheated during his undergrad and lost a

fortune from bad investments.

Some could say that had he been found out early on he never would have gotten into medical school and made so much money to begin with.

What about a person who has cheated five times during university and finally gets caught? Does she deserve to have all her other work negated because of that? Personally, I might be persuaded to say no if said hypothetical person was also very well-read, truly passionate about learning, and graduated as someone who was intellectually literate versus someone who never cheated

but rarely cracked open a book.

These are the sort of moral dilemmas that ought to be considered.

But whether or not the above is even worth considering, and as abhorrent as cheating can be, I think the point is that we can't always judge people and their actions with an abstract label, good or bad. It is all too easy to condemn someone as this or that, seeing everything as black and white. This topic could be hotly debated, but in the end one can only offer their opinion at the expense of leaving a lot of unanswered questions.

What do you think about man buns?

Stephanie Kole

Computer Science II

I love man buns! They’re a great time. Trends always change but that scruffy lumberjack look is key, especially since it’s Movember.

Ashley Hoskin

Chemical Engineering III

I don’t like man buns. I’m not a huge fan, and I think it’s a trend that will fade pretty quickly.

Tomi Milos English III

I love it. I would definitely get a man bun. The 2006 Justin Timberlake buzz cuts will be the new trend to replace man buns.

Tyler Carrol

Bachelor of Technology I

I have no idea what they are.

Opinion

Thursday, November 27, 2014

www.thesil.ca

17

Lower international student fees

Why do international students pay more for the same services?

Celestina Aleobua Contributor

Canada, a nation that prides itself for its multiculturalism, being a “melting pot” of all cultures, and with equal rights for all, has failed to provide substantial justification for why international students pay significantly higher tuition fees than domestic students.

Currently, international students pay almost four times the amount of fees that local students pay, though the amount can vary by school or degree. However, international students do not receive any added benefits. International and domestic students share the same facilities, the same professors and tutors, and the same bus services. Additionally, they are not eligible for most scholarships, or for financial aid services such as the Ontario Students Assistance Program (OSAP) that are available to local students. This begs the question of why there is a huge

disparity between local and international student fees.

One common argument justifying the high price of international student fees is that international students do not contribute to the Canadian economy, because they do not pay taxes, and should therefore be charged more in tuition. International students may not pay income tax, but they definitely contribute to the economy in terms of expenditure. A 2012 study by Foreign Affairs, Trade, and Development Canada on the Economic Impact of International Education in Canada said, “in 2010, international students in Canada spent in excess of $7.7 billion on tuition, accommodation and discretionary spending; created over 81,000 jobs; and generated more than $445 million in government revenue.”

The report also goes on to

state that international students in Canada make a significant contribution to the economy, and it recommends that Canada “ensure that international students are recognized and sup-

“

In 2010, international students in Canada spent in excess of $7.7 billion on tuition, accomodations and discretionary spending. ported commensurate to their importance to Canada.” Educational institutions recognize that the international students that can currently afford their high fees are those that are affluent, and they share this view of these students being valuable.

However, this view puts them at a huge disadvantage.

The arguments of domestic students agreeing with the high international student fees stems from the expectation that there be available space for all Canadian citizens in educational institutions, and that there should be a priority for admissions given to local students over international students.

Institutions limit the amount of admissions given to local students and free up space for international students in order to reap the full financial benefits.

Educational institutions excuse general increases in fees with lack of funding from the government.

According to the Ontario Undergraduate Student Alliance,

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increments in local student fees are capped at three percent every year, however for international students, no such limit exists. International students are vulnerable to tuition increments at the discretion of the educational institution. This is simply unfair.

Entering Canada as an international student is like being the eleventh man in line at the opening of a new H&M. The first ten people get a discount, and the rest settle for the inflated prices. Canada comprises of many different cultures, and in this sense, Canadian students are no different from international students. It is high time Canada includes the eleventh man in the discount club.

18

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Opinion

Thursday, November 27, 2014

Thinking about what “breaks the internet”

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The recent news surrounding Kim Kardashian’s naked photo shoot for Paper Magazine stirred up a huge buzz on the Internet. Apparently the media is so obsessed with her butt that Kim made history by “breaking the internet.” Various media outlets glorified her butt in a way that almost seems like sexual fetishism. It doesn’t make sense that the media is spending so much time talking about a person’s butt for the sole reason of it being big.

Does it even matter? All I know is that it’s just another publicity stunt.

I remember back when Miley Cyrus stirred up controversy during the 2013 MTV Video Music Awards with her antics like twerking and playing with a foam finger. At the time, she did manage to get a lot of attention for her actions, mostly criticizing her for doing such inappropriate acts on stage. A year later, she returned to the 2014 VMAs and yet again turned heads on stage when she sent a homeless young man to accept her award, in order to raise awareness for youth homelessness.

Surprisingly, she received a lot of praise from the press and the audience, with Miley looking like she did it out of sympathy for the poor guy. It seemed like everyone forgot about the events from the previous year, and that this was a chance for Miley to redeem herself. All I could feel back then was sorry for the homeless teen, because it looked like he just used up his fifteen minutes of fame.

Miley trying to highlight

POSTGRADUATE CERTIFICATE Miley Cyrus with Jesse, the homeless teen who accepted her award at the 2014 VMAs. C/O CHRISTOPHER POLK

a good cause at the VMAs was a personal excuse to receive praise and attention from everyone who once thought of her as scandalous, and the homeless teen was just a tool to help her achieve this goal. Later on, Miley’s homeless VMA date was sentenced to six months in jail for violating probation. As for Miley, well, she’s still in L.A. doing whatever she’s supposed to be doing.

While she definitely did raise awareness for homeless youth, the way she went about it seemed more of a publicity stunt than an actual commitment. It was similar to the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge videos people made to seek attention and “raise awareness,” instead of actually donating.

For quite some time now, I’ve noticed that the media and its audience are unaware of the attention they are giving to publicity stunts that are utterly

irrelevant and pretentious. Trying to understand why and what makes them interesting puzzles me. It never made sense how even the most meager of things, such as a picture of someone’s butt or using a good cause to save face, can be newsworthy.

The only celebrities who are worthy of attention are the ones that take an active role on issues that are particularly relevant. Leonardo DiCaprio and Emma Watson are some of the few celebrities who deserve praise for what they’re doing, especially for their respective stances on climate change and feminism.

No self-respecting celebrity would do a publicity stunt to gain more fame or respect.

If our society keeps paying attention to celebrities who “gain fame by being famous,” what will become of those who actually deserve it?

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Thursday, November 27, 2014

Sports

The Silhouette

www.thesil.ca

We talk with offensive co-ordinator Jon Behie to see what Mac will need to do to get a win over Montreal

19

The women's volleyball team got swept in Toronto but they aren't sweating it

PAGE 20

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Cruising to the Vanier Mac dominates line play in the Mitchell Bowl, win 24-12 over Mount Allison

LEAGUE AT LARGE The OUA at a glance

Men’s Volleyball OUA

CIS Top Ten W L

McMASTER GUELPH RYERSON WESTERN WATERLOO WINDSOR YORK QUEEN'S TORONTO NIPISSING RMC

8 7 6 4 6 4 5 4 2 1 0

1 2 3 4 4 4 3 4 7 7 8

ALBERTA McMASTER TRINITY WESTERN BRANDON UBC WINNIPEG DALHOUSIE GUELPH MOUNT ROYAL MANITOBA

Women’s Volleyball OUA East

OUA West

W L

W L

GUELPH McMASTER BROCK WESTERN WINDSOR LAKEHEAD WATERLOO

6 5 5 3 3 2 1

2 3 6 6 6 8 8

TORONTO RYERSON OTTAWA QUEEN'S YORK NIPPISING RMC

8 8 7 6 4 3 1

0 1 2 3 4 5 8

Basketball OUA Central - W

OUA Central - M

W L

McMASTER GUELPH LAKEHEAD BROCK

5 3 3 2

1 2 2 3

McMASTER BROCK GUELPH LAKEHEAD

W L

4 2 2 2

2 3 3 3

Notable quote

C/O DANIEL HIGGINS

Scott Hastie Sports Editor

Using defence and a strong running game, Mac bested the Mount Allison Mounties 24-12 and will have a shot at winning their second Vanier Cup in school history.

The score line does not reflect how one-sided this game was. McMaster’s line play made the difference and put the Marauders through to their third Vanier game in four years. Outside of Laval, the only other school to reach that level of consistency is the University of Saskatchewan. The Huskies made three Vanier trips in four years from 2003 to 2006.

Winning a Mitchell Bowl is a weird scenario, akin to knowing that you get a high mark in a course but the class is pass or fail. There’s a trophy that says they won something, but the feeling of accomplishment isn’t there.

The players were not overly eager to hoist the trophy or take a ton of pictures with it. It’s a ticket to the Vanier, which is the real goal.

It was the quintessential performance of this year’s version of a McMaster football team. In the past, Marauder

squads may have been a bit more predictable in their big plays and lighting up the scoreboard. This isn’t a bad thing — that group has a Vanier Cup ring after all. But Mac is deeper, and it is clearly more difficult to plan for. When Sportsnet broadcasts games, they put the names on the back of player jerseys. So many players contributed today that the change was a welcome one.

Mount Allison put up a good fight, but it was clear how one conference has outgrown the other. Mac sacked Mountie quarterback Brandon Leyh nine times and hit him at least 19.

Mount Allison’s offensive line got blown up on the first two plays of the game, one resulting in a pass that hit the back of a receiver and the other ending

in a sack. They could not open holes for rookie running back Chris Reid either — he finished with 53 yards on 11 rushing attempts. Reid finished third in the CIS for rushing yards per game, tallying up 123 per contest.

Mac did not escape from the game unscathed. On the first rush of the game, running back Chris Pezzetta seemed to injure his knee on a nondescript play and did not return. That knee has suffered two ACL tears between 2012 and 2013.

Officially, Pezzetta was listed as questionable to return with a lower-body injury.

Running back Wayne Moore took a hard hit in the third quarter but returned, while receiver Josh Vanderweerd suffered a hit to his head

Mt. Allison's QB took nearly 20 hits on Saturday and only threw for 186 yards.

and did not play for a few series.

Receiver Josh Vandeweerd took a blow to the end and did not return to the game.

It was the defence and special teams that gave Mac the win, causing the injury to Pezzetta to be minimal. Mark Mackie logged three sacks and won the Most Valuable Player award. Tyler Crapigna had three field goals and two punts inside the 20-yard line. One of those caused a safety after the Mount Allison possession.

The scene afterwards was the polar opposite of the Yates Cup celebration. Players lined up behind the stage, Sportsnet did the bowl presentation and the team moved on. It was pouring rain, so that would have forced people to get off the field pretty quick. But there was no real celebration because the players and coaches didn’t think they have anything to celebrate.

Next week, they might.

McMaster takes on the Montreal Carabins in Montreal, after the RSEQ representative topped Manitoba 29-24 in the Uteck Bowl.

With a deep roster led by players with Vanier experience, Mac has a real shot at recapturing Vanier glory. @scott1hastie

C/O YOSEIF HADDAD

"The hardest part of getting to the dance in grade 8 is getting through the snow storm and getting your mom to drive you. Once you're at the dance, who knows what can happen."

Marshall Ferguson McMaster QB On Mac's chances at the Vanier despite a lack of offence

On the lookout: Athletes to watch this week

Danny Demyanenko Men's volleyball › 0.623 hitting percentage - 1st in the OUA Demyanenko came into the program with high expectations and he may be surpassing them. His performance this season has kept Mac steady despite a rash of injurues.

Dan Vandevoort Football › 12 catches, 102 receiving yards in the Mitchell Bowl

Montreal's defence isn't as good against the pass and a big game from Vandevoort could pay Vanier-level dividends.

20

www.thesil.ca

Sports

Thursday, November 27, 2014

BRING ON MONTREAL

Laval is not the only powerhouse in Quebec.

Mac and Montreal have similar numbers in games against ranked opponents.

With the Mounties cast aside, Mac takes on a talented Montreal team.

What should you expect from the No. 2 ranked Carabins?

Scott Hastie Sports Editor

McMaster knows the conference well, but not this opponent.

In the 2014 Vanier Cup, Mac will take on the Montreal Carabins, in Montreal.

The Carabins, who compete in the RSEQ conference, have never played the Marauders.

McMaster has played RSEQ powerhouse Laval in their two previous Vanier games.

The new opponent won’t bother Montreal, though. This whole scene is brand new for the program. It’s a storybook scenario for the Carabins: this is their first Vanier game and they get to play it at home in front of their fans. They topped Laval while neutering the Rouge et Or’s stud quarterback. Now, they can hop on a subway and hit up practice.

It won’t bother Mac, either.

As offensive co-ordinator Jon Behie says, the team has been there before. But there are still inherent differences that come when you’re preparing for a non-OUA team.

“When you play out-of-conference, you don’t have a ton of context. You can’t really tell from film what you’re seeing,” said Behie. “When you see Western, and they just played Guelph and we have already played Guelph, there’s a measurable there for us.”

“We know the kids at Guelph – we recruited them too. We know Western’s personnel better. Instantly, you get better context. Now, we’re watching Montreal play Manitoba on film. There aren’t a ton of players that we know well and so we are trying to figure out who is stronger or weaker.”

Behie’s point offers great insight into the coaching struggle of a Vanier-bound team.

Between Behie, head coach Ptaszek, defensive co-ordinator Greg Knox and a handful of other coaches, they are trying to figure out a number of different variables at once while also picking up on schemes that they do not typically see. Mac isn’t without their own personal struggles though – the team has only scored one offensive touchdown in their last two games.

“It’s tough because ultimately, the goal is to win the game, and we’ve won our games. Are we happy with where we’ve been the past two weeks? No, not at all,” said Behie. “I simply think we have to better. We have to do better than one touchdown, I know that and our guys know that.”

Make no mistake, the Marauders seem like a conservative offence because they are one.

Behie says they do not want to turn the ball over or give the opposing team good field position because their defence has been playing so well.

“There’s some people who still have [our old play style] in their mind, where we aired it out like we did in 2011 and 2012,” said Behie. There were some deep shots taken in the Mitchell Bowl that hit the receiver but were not caught. Behie agrees that if those are caught then the conversation about the offence is different.

Regardless, this is the game plan right now: hold on to the ball, give the defenders rest and if you can’t score points, pin the opponent deep in their own territory. No one is saying it is the most inspiring brand of football to watch, but it is inarguably effective.

The question becomes how

effective Marshall Ferguson and the rest of the offense will be against Montreal.

The front seven of the Carabins is among the best in the country. Mount Allison was given similar praise last week, but they had inflated stats because of an easy schedule.

The Carabins have played seven games against ranked teams. qMontreal has sixth-round CFL pick Mathieu Girard on the defensive line, as well as two other players that Behie says will be CFL prospects. In seven games against ranked opponents, the Carabins have allowed 135.3 rushing yards per game. Five of those games came against teams who finished in the top ten for rushing yards per game.

Where they struggle is defending the pass. In seven games against ranked opponents, they allowed 302.5 yards through the air per game. Six of those seven games were against top ten passing offences, and Mac finished second in passing yards per game this season.

If the Marauders can get their passing game figured out, they will be in great shape.

Montreal’s offence has come around too. It hasn’t

been consistent to start the year, but they figured it out as the season went along.

29 points against Manitoba is an impressive mark, but they needed 421 passing yards to get there. That will be a problem for the Carabins, though. Mac’s passing defence is peaking at the most important part of the season and shutting down passing attacks. If the Carabins get in an early hole and have to pass, the Marauders will be playing with house money.

The offence doesn’t inspire confidence, but the defence – led by defensive backs Joey Cupido and Steven Ventresca, linebacker Nick Shorthill, as well as linemen Mark Mackie and Mike Kashak – is one of the most dominant groups to don the Maroon and Grey in any sport.

How this all comes together is the difference maker. Mac has not been consistent, but they look good now. This is different than the 2011 and 2012 Vanier Cup games: the Marauders control their own destiny.

If McMaster weaves everything together – something more likely than not – the Vanier could be coming back to Hamilton for the second time in school history.

CATHERINE CHAMBERS / MULTIMEDIA EDITOR

C/O CIS

Sports

Thursday, November 27, 2014

21

www.thesil.ca

Mac shakes off Toronto losses Saturday’s match showed why the Toronto Varsity Blues are the favourites to come out If McMaster’s women’s volleyof the OUA, as they handed ball team can take one positive McMaster a 9-25, 21-25, 19from the past week’s sweeps at 25 defeat. Toronto’s defence the hands of Ryerson and U of limited the Marauder’s big guns T, it is that they have been in to a paltry 0.06 kill efficiency, the same situation before, and though Joanna Jedrzejewska did it did not turn out so bad for manage 11 points. them. They lost to both teams Following the games, in the regular captain Taylor season last year as Brisebois felt well, before going her teammates on to beat Toronto and her were when it counted in not quite back OUA semi-finals to playing at en route to the the level that Ontario title. The won them the Marauders are no championship doubt hoping hislast year. tory repeats itself “We are later this year. capable of more Sean Haber The Nov. 19 than [that] we President of McMaster game was much believe, so at Israel on Campus closer than the this point we 19-25, 25-27, 23-25 will work on decision indicates. improving inBoth teams finished with near tensity at practice and focus on identical stats, save the Rams’ minimizing our errors,” Briseten service aces to McMaster’s bois said. “We will keep getting five, which made the differbetter throughout the season ence in a tight game. Maicee and next time we see them we Sorensen led the Marauder will be a different team and they offence with 13.5 kills. won’t know what’s coming.”

John Bauer Contributor

“

Every single game is important, no matter the time or the opponent.

The Marauders Volleyball team will look to rebound from their losses in Toronto and win their final game before the break in Guelph against the Gryphons.

CO/ FRASER CALDWELL

POSTGRADUATE CERTIFICATE

The Marauders play Brock and Guelph on Nov. 28 and 29, before breaking for exams.

Despite suffering consecutive losses for the first time this season, the final games before the break do not have any special significance in Brisebois’ eyes.

“Every single game is important, no matter the time or the opponent, we are always looking to improve and get the win.”

Although every game is important, Brisebois is without a doubt hoping for another shot at Ryerson or U of T in the playoffs.

“We will definitely see one or both of those teams again and I look forward to it.”

The schedule ahead After an important game against first-place Guelph, the Marauders face some key inter-conference foes.

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Sports

Thursday, November 27, 2014

Marauders dominating OUA competition Mac is the No. 2 ranked team in the country, and are coming off of their eighth consecutive win

McMaster is on a run of complete dominance.

In their last eight matches, the Marauders have swept their opponents seven times.

On top of this, the team is currently coming off their eighth consecutive win.

“I think that the results have been a by-product of us just doing what we want to do from a tactical point,” said head coach Dave Preston.

And from a tactical point, the Marauders have made remarkable ground. They are serving well, passing well, and more importantly, playing defense well—which is a major component of their game that Preston was concerned about in previous weeks.

“We made 41 digs in three sets against Toronto, and we were averaging six digs a set a couple of weeks ago. So we’re now almost double that,” said Preston.

Preston credited the team’s huge improvements to their commitment to the sport.

When they are faced with a challenge, or are faced with an aspect of their game that they are not pleased with, they know how to respond.

“These guys never cease to amaze me, and we’ve really focused on it and have really, really improved—but we’re still not where we want to be,” said Preston.

While the coaches have seen some impressive things both on and off the court, with the likes of Peter Khodkevych and Andrew Richards coming in as freshmen and pulling their weight while some critical teammates are dealing with injuries, the team has not yet reached the standard of play that they want to hit yet.

When it comes to their performance so far at this point of the season, Preston feels as though he is very pleased with what he has seen, but he is nowhere near satisfied.

“We’re not close in a couple of areas … not as close as we want to be. And our guys know that, so the best part of these guys is I never have to spend a lot of time or energy motivat-

@lsinkky

Brandon Koppers scored 12 points against the Ryerson Rams and Toronto Varsity Blues respectively.

C/O YOSEIF HADDAD

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Laura Sinclair Asst. Sports Editor

ing them to get going on this.

They do that themselves,” said Preston.

The captains of the team are also playing a big role in keeping the team on track, as they are trying to apply three areas of focus to each individual athlete on the team.

“The critical pieces for us is our decision making, our communication and our execution,” said Preston.

“They are allowing our guys who are pulling a fair amount of weight to not feel like they are doing this alone... conceptually for a team, its taking the ‘me’ to a ‘we’ and it’s kind of cool.”

The Marauders have just one more game left until the exam break begins, and after exams, the team will get a muchneeded reset period for about a week until they travel to Florida to compete in the Alden Cup tournament.

The team will leave for the eight-day trip on Dec. 27, where they will get to be host to eight teams, with seven out of those eight teams ranked within the top ten in Canada.

“It gives us a really good look at what other teams are doing,” said Preston.

Some notable teams that will be making the trip to Florida in late December include the Dalhousie Tigers, the Manitoba Bisons, and the No. 1 ranked team in the CIS, the Alberta Golden Bears.

“This year we’re doing an East vs. West challenge, so the four east teams are playing the four west teams,” said Preston.

The tournament will essentially serve as a precursor to the national tournament, as the Marauders will get to see and play against some of their rivals from Canada West, which will be beneficial for the purpose of information gathering for the coaches and players heading into the pivotal point of their season.

“It’s arguably the best tournament in North America right now,” said Preston.

The tournament officially starts on Jan. 1.

Until then, the Marauders will be taking care of business as usual, as they are set to travel to Guelph on Nov. 29.

Sports

Thursday, November 27, 2014

www.thesil.ca

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Games

www.thesil.ca

Thursday, November 27, 2014

ACROSS

Crossword

1. Bubbly stuff 5. Occupies completely 10. White hat wearer 14. First murder victim 15. “Let’s Make ____!”

16. Bait, sometimes 17. “The Voice of Firestone” host 19. Scandinavian god 20. Bar, by law 21. “The Morning Watch” author 22. Shows curiosity 23. Brought up 25. Caruso or Fermi 27. Opera solo 29. Drew, the girl detective 32. Farm structure 35. They hang around in coffee shops 39. Anaconda 40. Yale alum 41. Like busy folks 42. Noah’s charge 43. Major network 44. Certain meter reader 45. Tar’s assents 46. Capital of Senegal 48. Look before you do this 50. He cometh in a play 54. Walks with attitude 58. Untanned hide 60. Relative of 14-Across 62. TNT component 63. Jai ______ 64. Where some cabins may be found 66. Munro’s pen name 67. Current conductors 68. A whale of a menace 69. “Dedicated to the ____ Love” 70. Apple trees, once 71. Wedding cake feature

Seriously Sudoku

4 1 6 2 9 5 7 5 2 8 2 1 8

1 6 2

Twitter Winner

3

9 8 4 6 3 4 2 3

Finish the crossword? Tweet your photo of the finished grid at @theSilhouette and we’ll publish the first three names each week!

Good Luck From pinks. go marauders!

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER

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Last Week’s Answers

DOWN 1. Not as mad?

2. More than pudgy 3. Mouth that doesn’t talk 4. Runner-up 5. Geisha’s accessory 6. Brainchild 7. Mountaineer’s rest stop 8. Weighed down 9. Foxier?

10. Zoological cavity 11. Canadian body of water 12. Estrada of TV 13. Swampy grounds 18. Abbr. on a phone 24. The supreme Supreme 26. Start of many words?

28. They may be find or graphic 30. Reactor part 31. Beasts of burden 32. It may be in the road 33. Goya’s “The Duchess of ___” 34. Talk show host and actess 36. Electrical measure 37. Repast 38. “____ of God” (1985 movie) 41. Brutish boss 45. Brandy flavor 47. End of some plays 49. “____ added expense” 51. Cat chorus 52. Musical of “Tomorrow” 53. Dame’s introduction 55. Places humans evolve?

56. Slightest evidence 57. Sub standard?

58. El _____, Texas 61. Tool repository 65. Serpentine letter

Thursday, November 27, 2014

The Silhouette

Lifestyle

www.thesil.ca

Need a holiday outfit?

Lifestyle helps you survive the holiday season fashionably and comfortably.

BEST OF 2014

PAGE 26

THE YEAR IN WORDS

25

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www.thesil.ca

Lifestyle

Thursday, November 27, 2014

Holiday outfits for all occasions Look good and be comfortable this holiday season Daniella Porano Lifestyle Reporter Hayley Regis Contributor

D: It’s official. Radio stations are playing Christmas music, malls are decked out in consumeristic holiday glee, and everyone is feeling anxious about their post-holiday bank accounts. In the coming month, holiday parties, family gatherings, and made-for-TV Christmas movies will dominate my social calendar, and with that, images of pencil skirts, colourful knits, and heels will dominate my mind (What exams? What final papers?).

H: I usually have a pair of holiday parties and New Year’s celebrations to attend, so that gives me plenty of occasions to look as fabulous as humanly possible. Last year for Xmas one of two, I paired a patterned pencil skirt with a half-tucked vintage tee and a big glamorous necklace. My family is usually pretty casual so I planned for something that would make me feel like the coolest of cats but allow me to eat and drink as much as possible. Anything to soothe the burn of the term paper I have yet to write.

D: Last year I celebrated a handful of Christmases, which all came with their own set of dress codes. At a dinner celebration, I donned maroon-coated skinny denim, a black peplum sleeveless shirt with a collar, and a pair of riding boots.

At my family’s casual Christmas lunch, I wore a plaid woven skirt, tights, a fitted cable-knit sweater, and scarf. This year my central style rule will revolve around

pairing everything I can with heels. Their ability to instantly dress up a relatively simple outfit is ideal, especially when splurging on new holiday clothing isn’t an option. For cozy winter evenings at home, I plan on opting for slouchy sweaters with boyfriend jeans.

H: For last New

D: Last New Year's I opted for a cozy knit layered over a collared denim shirt, black skinny jeans, and boots, and paired with a chunky knit scarf and a beanie.

I still froze - I mean that’s my fault because I thought it would be “cute” to go skating in minus twenty-five degree weather by Toronto’s Harbourfront. This year, it’s all about the glam.

I can’t wait to put on my favourite black jumpsuit, a pair of snakeskin heels, and rock a red lip to whatever party I end up going to.

Jason Woo Lifestyle Editor

The 2014 American Music Awards this past Sunday took place at the Nokia Theatre in L.A. It was all pretty standard fare, but Taylor Swift did continue her tirade against Spotify and Iggy Azalea won favourite rap/hip-hop album and artist.

One of those events sparked outrage on Twitter. We’ll let you guess which one it was.

In anticipation of the repackaging of her self-titled album, Beyoncé dropped the video for lead single 7/11. In the homemade video (yes, there’s a GoPro), Queen Bey dances around with friends in a bunch of luxurious hotel rooms. Looks like the best slumber party of all time… OF ALL TIME! The curtain on Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens is about to finally be lifted… sort of. Disney has revealed that a teaser for the hotly anticipated tent-pole will screen in select theatres Friday Nov. 28. Although it’s bad news for the new Jurassic Park movie, which is also set to debut its first trailer this week.

Year's I went full glam. I stayed in, ordered food, and watched movies with my best friends. I wore a full-length dress that’s basically a blanket with some chunky earrings because I knew I would have to be in public(ish) to greet the delivery guy. This year, I’m looking forward to rocking anything with a high-waist with chunky and coordinated cropped knits.

That or the pantsuit I just ordered. I’m pretty excited to have my hands on what is basically just a souped-up onesie that is somehow socially acceptable because it isn’t made of acrylic and fleece. For my evenings in I’m going to stick with my harem pants and half-tuck a basic white tee.

Hayley and Daniella’s Holiday Style Rules: 1. Marry your shoes. I don’t care if you need to make an elaborate vow to your five-inch stilettos before you attend a party.

For the night, you and your shoes are betrothed, deeply connected, common law partners.

Under no circumstance do you remove your shoes until you return home and/ or go to sleep.

2. Dress for the weather.

I don’t care how cool you look in the club; if your skin is blistering as soon as you step outside, you are making a poor life choice. Layer up. This isn’t just for clubs, going to family gatherings where you know you’re going to be inside can make it tempting to just wear whatever but trust.

Wouldn’t you rather be a layered parfait than a single scoop of vanilla in the case of emergency?

3. Regarding accessories.

Follow the eternally wise words of the ultimate Parisian Coco Chanel, “Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and remove one accessory.”

It’s official: Katy Perry is headlining the Super Bowl XLIX Halftime show. After months of speculation, Perry announced her involvement on Twitter this past Sunday. Pepsi released a digital short starring Perry and have reworked Firework for the occasion.

Someone’s getting fired at Lionsgate. The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1 opened this past weekend to middling reviews and a substantially lower domestic opening weekend than past installments. Chalk this up to savvy audiences skipping part one of the worst book in the trilogy. Guess it doesn’t pay to be greedy.

Lifestyle

Thursday, November 27, 2014

www.thesil.ca

27

Surviving a night on campus Tobi Abdul Asst. Lifestyle Editor

I’m no stranger to 4 a.m. at Thode. In fact, I’m no stranger to 6 a.m. either. Despite countless times that I’ve heard all-nighters don’t help anyone, I ignore the advice and continue to power through pages of readings with the help of coffee, music, and comfortable clothes.

Sleep is important during exams, I know that (and you should too), but I’m the kind of person that gets really anxious about sleeping before I feel fully prepared (or as prepared as I can be) so I tend to stay in the library until the wee hours of the morning and then go home and sleep for a few hours.

In order to make sure that I don’t burn out or fall asleep face first during my exam, I follow a few personal rules. The first is

that I’m in bed by 1 a.m. whenever I have an exam the next morning at 9 a.m. It doesn’t help anyone to be completely sleep-deprived before an exam.

Also, make sure you check the bus schedules. There’s nothing worse than being stuck on campus because you live too far to walk or being forced to make arrangements and a plan at the beginning of the night so you know when you’re ending your studying and packing up to go home.

Also make sure you have enough food or enough money to buy food. I always spend way more money during exam times because I have to order food or walk to Subway and get food because everything on campus closes as of 11 p.m.

Staying on campus is not for the weak. The Hunger Games seems like a Disney holiday special when you’ve experienced late nights at Thode. People start mowing on food, sleeping

on desks, and snapping at anyone that talks above a whisper.

If libraries aren’t your thing, you may like the Student Centre instead. There are plenty of couches, floor space, and sparse amount of people after night falls. That way, you can also take naps in between chapters, which is very important.

If you’re going to be spending the better part of a day studying, take a power nap.

Twenty minutes of shut-eye will make all the difference of absorbing that dense textbook you didn’t open until exam period.

Just make sure that you’re not napping more than twenty minutes if you want to power nap.

Longer naps of an hour to an hour and a half are okay if you have that much time to spare.

The last thing to consider is what to wear to all night study sessions. Sure, you can be that person who wears a full fashionable outfit to the library to study, but you may not be

comfortable enough to stay in it for hours.

Think sweatpants, loose fitting pants, and comfortable sleepwear, like Snuggies.

That’s right, I said it. Although Snuggies aren’t super practical to take to the bathroom, they do have the benefit of allowing you to work while being fully blanketed.

Another option is the onesie. This is practical to wear to

the bathroom, although it takes some maneuvering unless you have one of those buttflaps.

If you want to spend late hours in the library, there are many advantages that include study space, lots of outlets, and it is generally quieter. However, make sure you’re prepared for it. Eat well, sleep well, do well. Grab your Snuggie, your sweatpants, or your onesie, and I’ll see you in Thode.

Have a D.I.Y. holiday The best homemade presents on a student budget Olivia Monardo Contributor

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With Christmas right around the corner, students are finding themselves in the same predicament: how to give great gifts without spending a lot of money. Although candles and Tim Horton’s gift cards are always a great alternative to jewelry and expensive clothes, there is another way to wow your family and friends: homemade gifts.

DIY is the new black, and it has something for everyone.

What is something that every mom, dad, aunt, or uncle lives off of? Coffee. And what

do these lovely people need to drink their coffee? A mug. One great D.I.Y. gift is a personalized mug, which is super easy to make and affordable, because all the materials can be found at the Dollarstore. First you need to choose a mug — white is the best option because it allows colour to show clearly. Next, round up whatever permanent markers you have shoved in your desk drawers and start drawing. Once the ink is dry, bake it in the oven on medium heat for 30 minutes, and voila!

A personalized gift that won’t go to waste.

Another great gift to com-

plement the D.I.Y. mug is a jar of hot chocolate. This gift employs the same draw-and-bake method as the mug. Choose a jar of any shape or size, like a mason jar. Using permanent marker, draw either a name or a pretty pattern, and then bake it in the oven for 30 minutes.

Once it has cooled, fill the jar with hot chocolate mix and any other ingredients that you love in your cocoa, like marshmallows, sprinkles, or pieces of candy cane. Wrap a ribbon around the top of the jar and you’ve got a fabulous addition to your fabulous mug!

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Lifestyle

www.thesil.ca

Thursday, November 27, 2014

Men eat pizza, women eat salads A vegetarian’s thoughts on food and gender expectations Alon Coret SHEC

I usually spend holiday dinners with my girlfriend and her family. And of course on such occasions it is important to create good impressions, as well as partake in the specially prepared meal. From my experience, however, this often involves the consumption of meat.

The awkward thing is, I am vegetarian.

Wait. Pause. Why did I think of this as an “awkward” situation? I mean yeah, sure, I may be that slightly annoying guest who does not partake in the central component of the meal. But at the same time, Sarah (my girlfriend) and I have been dating for three years, and her family is not the type to take offence to such trivialities.

There must be something else at play, and it took me a while to understand what exactly it is.

After pondering the issue some more, I realized that refusing meat is not about

dinner table etiquette so much as it is about gender roles – at least, from my perspective. I have often been told that I “eat like a girl.” Sadly, my liking of quinoa, soy milk, and multigrain cereal is not helping my case. On date nights with Sarah, waiters often confuse our meals: “no, no, no.

The steak is for her; I ordered the butternut squash quiche.”

Moreover, Sarah’s father formerly served in the Canadian army, towers a good two or three inches above me (and I am already 6’2”), and can probably knock me out with one small punch. He also loves football; I can’t even name two players. Therefore, my choice of dinnertime veggies is the cherry on top of a deficient-in-masculine-gender-stereotypes-yet-needs-to-impress-girlfriend’s-father cake.

So here comes yet another question: why is it that food is gendered in this way? What makes steak and beer “male”

foods, and what exactly is “feminine” about fruity drinks and

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chocolate cravings? And why is it that women outnumber men in meat-free diets – 2:1 among vegetarians and 4:1 among vegans?

A quick Google search came up with an answer I expected: it’s all about evolution. Men, who were traditionally hunters, have grown to see meat as a valued prize. Women, on the other hand, were more involved in gathering roles (e.g. grains, fruits), and thus prefer sweet tastes to bitter ones (strawberry daiquiri, anyone?).

Another explanation has to do with protein intake requirements, which are somewhat higher in men than women (and meat is an obvious protein source).

These conjectures left me frustrated. They evoked biological reductionism, and

reinforced the notion that we are living 21st-century lives in the bodies of hunter-gatherers.

And, of course, they gave backing to the gender stereotypes associated with food – men prize meat, women like sweets.

So, then, what does a vegetarian man say to himself? “Yeah, evolution dictates that I should consume meat…but evolution is SO passé. I am, like, post-evolution.” No. And how does a woman who likes traditionally male foods and beverages (e.g. steak, beer) affirm her femininity when our food culture encourages her to eat a zero-percent fat probiotic yogurt?

These are some good questions to which I currently lack answers. But I think that being conscious of the sociocultural context of our foods can help us make choices that step beyond the constraints of evolution and gender. So, whether you choose Turkey or Vurkey, I would like to wish you a wonderful holiday season.

Thursday, November 27, 2014

The Silhouette

www.thesil.ca

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andy

www.thesil.ca

Review: Fury

Keeping up with Coming up in Hamilton

This week’s quick picks

MUSIC

THE CASBAH > Hamilton Brewery party > Dan Medakovic > Hilotrons

NOV 27 NOV 29 NOV 30 DEC 2

> Dear Rouge BALTIMORE HOUSE > New Hands > Pet Sun > Night Drive > Gilmore Girls Trivia

NOV 27 NOV 28 NOV 29 DEC 2

THIS AIN’T HOLLYWOOD > Juliana Lachance > Lady in Black > Exile On James Street > Sunday Slamfest

NOV 27 NOV 28 NOV 29 NOV 30

MOVIES

WESTDALE > Mommy > My Old Lady

NOV 28-DEC 4 NOV 28-DEC 4

MUSEUMS

AGH > Dredging a Wake

by Jenn E. Norton

Thursday, November 27, 2014

JUN 28 - JAN 4

Aquilo “I Gave It All” (Human EP) For such a comparatively small area compared to the U.S., the U.K seems to foster more than its fare share of musicians.

Aquilo are a duo from a mountainous region in northwest England known as the Lake District. While Tom and Ben’s song “I Gave It All” is a good listen in its own right, the accompanying video raises it to a stunning new level. Directed

by Eoin Glaister, the visuals make use of the stunning English landscape in its tale of adolescent love and what could have been.

Watch out for the pair’s EP, Human, out Dec. 8 and get the tissues ready.

THE ANDY CHARTS

#

ALBUM TITLE

1

It Takes A Nation...(Reissue)

2

Back From The Dead 2

3

First Demo

4

The M.A.F..E. Project

5

I’m Around

6

You and I are the Same

7

Film of Life

8

The Trinity (3rd Sermon)

9

Faith in Strangers

10

Prince deleting all his social media

Killer Mike is the fucking realest Prior to starting his St. Louis set, Killer Mike took a few minutes to commemorate Michael Brown and dwell upon the Grand Jury’s terrible decision. Mike got choked up and talked about how he’s scared for his own sons. A must watch for its raw emotional power.

Shia Labeouf, Logan Lerman, Brad Pitt, Michael Perna, and Jon Berthnal in Fury

Anthony Manrique Silhouette Intern

Brad Pitt returns to Germany to kill Nazis, although this time, he’s fighting in the frontlines in David Ayer’s war film, Fury.

Pitt portrays tank commander Sergeant Don Collier fighting deep within enemy territory in Germany as the war approaches its end. His five-man crew consists of Boyd “Bible” Swan (Shia LaBeouf) as the main gunner, Grady “Coon-Ass” Travis (Jon Bernthal) as their loader, and Trini “Gordo” Garcia (Michael Pena) as the driver.

At the beginning of the film, Collier and his crew emerge as the only survivors of their armored division in a graveyard of destroyed American tanks.

The crew’s original bow gunner has been killed in a prior battle and his replacement turns out to be a recent recruit, Norman Ellison, played by Logan Lerman.

Having only been in the army for eight weeks, Ellison displays reluctance in shooting and killing the enemy, saying, “my conscience is clean; I’m keeping

it that way.”

In one scene, Collier tries to educate Ellison to the harsh realities of war by forcing him to shoot a German POW begging for mercy. As the story progresses, the crew, now transferred to a new armored division, moves on to capture a small German town as their objective. The scenes in this part of the movie start to become even more intense, with battles accompanied by astounding visual effects, from exploding tank shells, whizzing bullets, to bursts of flame and glowing tracer rounds enveloping the battlefield. It is also in this scene that Ellison starts to transform into a more determined and relentless killer, shouting curses at the Nazis that he kills during the course of the battle.

The climax comes shortly afterwards, as a landmine disables their vehicle, while 300 elite German S.S. infantry approaches the crossroads. I’ll leave the rest to your imagination until you see the film.

Overall, the movie’s action-packed fight scenes,

stunning visuals, and gritty, appealing atmosphere give a lasting impression of what war would look like: hell. Some of the aspects of the movie’s plot are borrowed from other contemporary WWII films, like the climax that bears a similarity to the end of Saving Private Ryan.

Pitt continues to play a rugged, violent, and ferocious warrior for the most part, akin to his role in Inglourious Basterds, but with his character’s deep sense of morality and vulnerability to the horrors of war, this role is an outstanding exception. Lerman’s portrayal of Ellison, however, is a bit cliché. His innocent kid-turned-killer persona has already been used in the characters of Pvt. Pyle from Full Metal Jacket, or Cpl. Upham from Saving Private Ryan, and unlike them, the portrayal seems to try too hard. All the action and the drama that is needed in a good war film make up for what the film lacks in its distinctiveness.

Nevertheless, Fury still manages to deliver a satisfying experience for fans of war movies and moviegoers alike.

the

big tickle What’s your favourite show to binge watch during exams, and why?

Chris

“Brooklyn Nine-Nine. It’s really funny.”

Natalie

“Friends. Because it’s light-hearted, and takes your mind off things.”

Celine

“Supernatural. I really like it.”

Jessica

“House. Hugh Laurie.”

Stephanie

“Grey’s Anatomy. It’s just so interesting and twisted and has a story to it.”

andy

Thursday, November 27, 2014

www.thesil.ca

Riding the wave with Toronto’s The Beaches

The female outfit is barely out of high school, but they’re already poised for success

Tomi Milos ANDY Editor

When I walked into Mills Hardware to interview The Beaches, I was thankful for reprieve from the snowy flurries still raging outside, but even more appreciative of the opportunity to sit down with the Toronto fourpiece alternative rock outfit and former Silhouette cover stars.

I had missed their set at Riot Fest due to a scheduling conflict, and an interview before their Supercrawl set fell through at the last minute, so I was excited when I learned that I would finally get the opportunity to sit down with Jordan Miller, Kylie Miller, Eliza McDaniel, and Leandra Earl before their latest Hamilton gig.

Despite being nothing more than a stranger to them, the four girls were more than welcoming and quickly made me feel at home in the basement of the venue. As they impatiently awaited the arrival of their food, we settled down for an interview.

Jordan (bass/vocals) and Kylie (guitar) are sisters, as their shared surname suggests.

Aged 18 and 17 respectively, the pair have been playing music together for close to ten years.

After enlisting the help of Eliza (drums, 18) but being mocked for their success — their high school peers resented the fact that their music was being featured on the decidedly unhip Disney Channel — the band altered their bubble-gum image and added Leandra (20) whose skills on the keyboard have added a new dimension to their sound.

Having all attended the same Toronto high school, the four women have a noticeable

Eliza McDaniel, Leandra Earl, Kylie Miller, and Jordan Miller compose The Beaches, a Toronto alt-rock band.

chemistry and often finish each other’s sentences while trading quips with knowing glances.

Eliza said that remaining close friends while being in a band together goes hand in hand and the other three were quick to agree.

“It’s easy for us since we genuinely like each other,” said the drummer.

Jordan went so far as to suggest a parental dynamic comes into play with Kylie figuring as

the strict parent and Leandra as the nurturing one. All jokes aside, it was plain to see that they were serious about their musical aspirations and fully committed to realizing their ambitions.

They’re currently signed to a temporary deal with Island Records that entails them being periodically flown out to L.A. to work with producers. The output they create while there will determine whether the label

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decides to sign them to a full deal or keep developing their raw talent.

To watch the video for “Loner,” probably the band’s biggest hit, is to fully understand the crossover appeal that the band possess and what must have attracted the label.

While anxious to see how it all pans out, Kylie said “it’s kind of the best of both worlds” in how they’re able to visit L.A. for free, while still retaining creative

freedom when they hit the studio. As the lone member of the band still in high school, one would think that Kylie would be stressed about having to take time off school but the senior appears to be handling it with ease. She added that the trips are often so brief that sometimes her teachers don’t even notice she’s gone.

Although only one of them is old enough to legally drink, the band has played most of their shows in bars and always has some stories to share when asked. One Toronto venue, which they refused to name, once gave them some trouble when the security guard came into the backroom and told them, “no fans allowed back here, band only.” Some other venues don’t even deem them worthy of that much attention, telling them to simply stay put until they’re due on stage.

As troubling to hear as the treatment they’ve received may be, the band has their sights set on the bigger picture. They all echoed the same plan to record their first full-length record over the next year.

As the last to join the band, Leandra had a bit of perspective when stopping to consider how the band has grown over the years and said the arrival of a manager has brought a lot more opportunities to perform at festivals and expand their horizons. Eliza said that the addition of Leandra has allowed them to pursue a direction that wasn’t just “hooky and guitar-driven.”

If they stay on their current track, The Beaches’ optimism will soon prove warranted. With the Canadian alt-rock scene plagued with a slew of mediocre male bands, this female ensemble couldn’t be more deserving.

More movie reviews on thesil.ca

andy

Thursday, November 27, 2014

Settle in to your school year with

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andy

Thursday, November 27, 2014

www.thesil.ca

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Christmas through the ages Christmas in Connecticut

Rotten Tomatoes Score: 88% Released: 1944

It’s a Wonderful Life

Rotten Tomatoes score: 94% Released: 1945

Rudolph the RedNosed Reindeer

Rotten Tomatoes score: 92% Released: 1964

Die Hard

Rotten Tomatoes score: 54% Released: 1988

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation

Rotten Tomatoes score: 94% Released: 1989

While not one of the most popular Christmas films of all time, Christmas in Connecticut holds its own as far as black-and-white holiday schmaltz and romance as realistic as film set snow are concerned. Set near the end of World War II, the film stars Barbara Stanwyck as a home cook magazine columnist.

She is asked by her editor to host a decorated war hero for her usual Christmas dinner at her farm in rural Connecticut, but her entire career is based on lies, and her

cooking skills are as non-existent as her farm. She and her allies try to fake the situation, complete with a farm, a husband, and a baby. When she begins to fall for the soldier she is hosting, however, hilarity and holiday hijinks ensue, making Christmas in Connecticut a fun, cozy film to watch a few nights before Christmas.

Despite what you might think, Frank Cappa’s It’s a Wonderful Life was a initially flop in the box office because quite frankly it was a bit too depressing at times. It wasn’t until decades later that it became a Christmas classic to me, and to millions of other fans. The movie follows the story of George Bailey, a man who wishes he was never born.

After a series of events leaves him broke, he decides to take his own life. Thankfully, an angel comes to show him what life would be like

without him, and shows him that there is a better way out. A true celebration of life, and what it really means to be a rich man in the company of loved ones, It’s a Wonderful Life is one of my favourites. If you’ve ever wanted to see a grown man cry, throw this on and you can watch me weep heavily. This movie will warm your heart, every time.

“But do you recall, the most famous reindeer of all?” The 1964 Christmas television special Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer is a Christmas classic cherished by many people – especially if they can manage to look past the horribly sexist undertones. Putting that aside, the film does an excellent job of showing that difference and individuality are not things to be feared or shunned, but welcomed with open arms. The storyline of the Misfit Toys reminds us that no matter how broken or

useless we may feel, we must always remember that we are important, we have value, and that we matter. While this classic may have many encouraging messages, these messages are found alongside some troubling ones, leaving me with mixed feelings on this classic film.

Quite possibly the greatest action movie of all time, Die Hard proved to the world that even Christmas can be badass. It follows the story of John McClane, a New York City cop visiting his wife in Los Angeles for her office’s Christmas party. The festivities are soon interrupted by a group of terrorists, as McClane quickly finds out that he may be the hostage’s only chance for survival.

What makes this movie so fantastic is how far the movie pushes the limits of one man, while still making it believable. This kind of action movie

formula may seem cliché nowadays, but that’s only because it’s a formula that Die Hard practically invented.

All this is paired brilliantly with an eerie Christmas-themed score, and just the right amount of holiday references sprinkled throughout its 132-minute runtime to leave any movie lover asking for more, even 26 years after its release.

In my house, it’s not Christmas until National Lampoons: Christmas Vacation has graced our TV screen. I’m serious. My parents and I can repeat entire scenes. One year we even bought a boxed set that included fake snow in it (don’t ask).

In other words, I’m probably a little biased when I say that it is one of the greatest holiday movies of all time. What other movie can offer you a sleigh ride fiasco, the charred remnants of a Christmas tree and a wholesome Christmas kidnapping?

Chevy Chase, Beverly D’Angelo and Seinfeld’s Julia Louis-Dreyfus star in this comedy that will take you through all the steps on how to have a good old-fashioned, train-wreck of a Christmas. Just make sure to call me over first before you decide to watch it.

Rachel Katz News Reporter

Jordan Hallin Contributor

Rachel Harper Contributor

Michael Gallagher Asst. ANDY Editor

Alexandra Florescu ANDY Reporter

andy

www.thesil.ca

34

Thursday, November 27, 2014

Christmas through the ages continued Home Alone

Rotten Tomatoes score: 54% Released: 1990

Love Actually

Rotten Tomatoes score: 63% Released: 2003

The Christmas season at my house means two things: an overwhelming amount of eggnog, and a screening of Home Alone. While Home Alone may not be the highest-rated Christmas movie of all time, it’s certainly one of the classics. The story follows a young witty ruffian played by a young Macaulay Culkin, who is accidentally left behind when his family departs for the Christmas holidays to Paris. When burglars threaten to break into his house, he fends them off with expertly devised booby-traps, making way for dozens

of hilarious scenarios. It’s a simple plot, but one that never fails to infuse me with festive cheer and holiday spirit. There’s a certain comfort about the movie reminiscent of warm fireplaces and hot cocoa that brings my family together year after year – with a side of eggnog, of course.

If you want to feel all warm and fuzzy around the holidays, I suggest you settle in with the most loved, highest rated, and cheesiest holiday rom-com ever made. Despite plot holes at every turn, Love Actually captures exactly what it means to celebrate the holidays. This movie is about love: redefinitng it, cherishing it, and most importantly, not being afraid to go after it. Richard Curtis made us fall in love with every character, from Sam chasing his first

love, to the Prime Minister taking on the role of Prince Charming, to Karen, a housewife who deserves more from her husband. It may not all make sense, but that’s the beauty of it; it doesn’t have to.

Michelle Yeung ANDY Reporter

Elf

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Rotten Tomatoes score: 84% Released: 2003

I’m not exactly sure how I feel about Will Ferrell, but I know exactly how I feel about Elf – it’s heartwarming as hell. It’s been a while since I last saw it, but every time I watch it, the message sticks with me. Just like any classic Christmas movie, Elf reminds us the true meaning of

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Christmas – cherishing family and the ones you love. It’s not the funniest movie, but it’s still humorous in its own cheesy, adorable kind of way. Elf also a gives off some serious alternate universe vibes, if you’re into that. A blonde Zooey Deschanel? Crazy! Peter Dinklage in a suit (and not draped in velvet next to a naked woman)?

Sacrilegious! Will Ferrell not putting his goods on a drum set and actually being lovable?

Is this a dream? Nope. It’s Elf and its very much real and very much a classic of this generation.

Chris Chiu Contributor

A Very Harold & Kumar 3D Christmas

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Rotten Tomatoes score: 68% Released: 2011

Still in bad taste, still fairly formulaic to the first two movies, and still simplistic, this movie can offer a good time with the right mindset. This isn’t a classic

holiday movie, and it isn’t going to receive any awards or win anyone over to the Harold & Kumar series of films. It isn’t an absolute must-watch. What it does offer is crude humour that never takes itself too seriously.

It follows a satisfying, bowwrapped happy Hollywood plot suited perfectly for the season.

That’s all you really need out of a holiday movie.

Shane Madill Online Reporter

THURSDAY

TRAIL GATE Ti- Cat fans leave ruin and decay in wake of tail- gate trip to Grey Cup locale S3

HAMILTON SPECULATOR SHOWING UP IN YOUR SEARCH HISTORY SINCE 1934

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NOVEMBER 27, 2014

Mayor-elect proposes city mash-up Hamilton Mayorelect Bland MacNabby puts forward motion to combine Hamilton and Burlington into a single supercity

N O T G N I L R U B

TIBERIUS SLICK Not from around here

Following the craze of combining the elements of two songs to create a new, unique recording, Hamilton may soon be involved in a mash-up of its own.

Mayor-elect Bland MacNabby put forward a motion to city council that proposes that we re-zone the combined areas of Hamilton-Ancaster-Dundas-Flamborough, and the entirety of Burlington, into one new megatropolis. It shall be named New Toronto.

“I feel that if we combine the best elements of both cities, we can create a space that will rival even Old Toronto, or Toronto, as some call it,” said MacNabby.

The city council is not averse to the idea, as they are eager to enjoy Burlington’s hiking trails, fruitfulin-

N O T L I HAM dustrial sector, and a real Ribfest.

On the other side, Burlingtonians are sure to take advantage of the, uh, sheer diversity of population that Hamilton and only Hamilton can lay claim to.

“Hamilton will look great on our taxes, and I’m sure Ontario will appreciate us taking them in. Too many cities nowadays just build new cities to annex instead of offering

shelter for the abandoned and decrepit,” said Burlington Mayor-elect Crosby Lau. New Toronto is expected to be the world’s first demilinguial city, sporting half of the English language.

“We lost a lot of key letters in the negotiation, but we can’t expect Hamilton citizens to speak on the same terms as the rest of us. It just

The Slime Meridian, the dividing line between Hamilton and Burlington, will see a rough few years of transition as the New Toronto Unity Wall is constructed.

isn’t humane,” said Lau. To change residence, former Hamilton residents will have to complete a series of rigorous, some would say “insurmountable” examinations to test their aptitude for basic humanity. Former Burlington residents will be able to come and go as they please, but should exercise caution when slumming it in Eastern New Toronto.

CASUAL OBSERVER As Hamiltonians increase demand for wanderlust, Jackson Square rises up to meet this challenge head on.

Citizens crawling the “Square Lair” as some youths refer to it, will soon find themselves unable to leave, or even unwilling.

“We have connected the two ends of Jackson Square into one continuous loop. Shoppers who enjoy walking through the malls for hours

on end, will no longer have to make a hard turn at any point,” said Mall Operator Queef Urban.

“Regular shoppers will also find it difficult to leave, as entrances and exits shift in and out of existence as the temporal plane becomes a mere husk of what it once was. But they’ll stay for the savings!”

To aid this new initiative, buses that pass by Jackson Square will now come only half as often, and will randomly not show up 60% more often, especially when there are open food containers on the shelter benches.

“Jackson Square has always been the pinnacle of eternity. Art districts gentrify, industries surge and fall, but Jackson Square, and the things that inhabit it, are the one constant in the chaotic flux of the universe. Now that the architecture reflects that, shoppers will enjoy the savings that come with having the life sucked right out of you,” said Urban.

There is no yesterday, today or tomorrow. There is no wrong or right. There is only Jackson Square.

NEW YEARS RESOLUTION: 1024x768 A3

ONLINE POLL RESULTS What is the longest you are willing to spend in Jackson Square??

No.

Crosby Lau New Toronto Mayor-Elect

INSIDE

Jackson Square comes full circle One of the lucky ones

““Hamilton will look great on our taxes.”

98%

Is McDonalds open?

1%

On second thought, no.

1%

We remind Speculator.com users that multiple submissions are not accepted in online polls, no matter how many times you want to say “No.”

Disclaimer: The Hamilton Speculator is a work of satire and fiction and should not under any circumstances be taken seriously. Unless you’re into that sort of thing. Then do what you want. I’m not your dad.

SECRETE SANTA: SWEATING THE GIFT SEASON? A8 HARPER: WE DO NOT NEGOTIATE WITH PIZZA DELIVERY GUYS C5 SUDDENLY EVERYONE IS A CIVIL RIGHTS LAWYER C8 PER ISSUE: Listen to one KoRn song. Just once.

INCL. HST, PST & no mash-ups.

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Expires: April 30th, 2015