The Silhouette — October 26, 2017

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NEWS: What basic income may mean for Hamilton // PAGE 5 ARTS & CULTURE: TV commitment // PAGE 15 OPINION: The battle of pot // PAGE 12-13

The Silhouette Thursday, Oct. 26, 2017

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Why recent grads are leaving Hamilton PAGE 4

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Volume 88, Issue 10 Thursday, Oct. 26, 2017 McMaster University’s Student Newspaper

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EDITORIAL BOARD editor-in-chief | thesil@thesil.ca Shane Madill @shanemadill digital media specialist | dms@msu.mcmaster.ca Aaron de Jesus managing editor | managing@thesil.ca Rachel Katz production editor | production@thesil.ca Catherine Tarasyuk online editor | online@thesil.ca Haley Greene sections

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| 3

News FYC and faculty rep elections see low voter turnouts Lack of voter participation sparks discussions about increasing first year students’ engagement with the MSU Sept. 10, when 12 SRA members voted in favour of the motion, but 18 voted it down.

Ryan Deshpande, MSU vice president (Education), opposed the motion on the grounds that the meeting would be poorly attended if it was held in September. Max Lightstone, caucus leader (engineering), however, noted that engineering holds a semi-annual general meeting that achieves a high attendance.

After the discussion fizzled out, Chukky Ibe, MSU President, concluded that the best plan moving forward would entail hosting an MSU open house and town hall.

Under the status quo, the MSU employs other strategies to increase voter turnouts in first year

elections.

In particular, each year, the MSU allots a generous amount of time to prompting the department during Welcome Week.

The MSU also raises awareness by working with FYC Coordinator Hazra Chowdhury and being present at Clubsfest.

In addition, the MSU hosts events, spearheads MSU Wants You campaigns aimed at ameliorating MSU engagement amongst outreach groups that are traditionally less inclined to get involved, and partners with MSU Spark, FYC and Residence Life.

One event that the MSU hosted this year, Elections 1A03, consisted of a workshop and question and answer session aimed at informing first year students about elections and MSU involvement.

However, the Elections 1A03 event was not particularly accessible, being held at Mohawk College, not McMaster University. The event garnered only 58 signs-ups on its Face-

book page.

Chloe Deraiche, MSU Chief Returning Officer, notes that, in spite of the apparent voter apathy, the MSU has achieved comparatively high voter turnout rates. In particular, McMaster has one of the highest voter turnouts for student elections in Ontario, sitting at around 40 percent.

“This is remarkably strong for a school of our size and leads me to believe the civic engagement at McMaster is exceptionally robust,” said Deraiche. “I think this is something that we are doing extremely well and should be proud of as a school.

The Elections Department will strive to continue this excellent work.”

Continuing promotion work and increasing the accessibility of events promise to ignite more interest in student governance. @theSilhouette

35% Turn Out

4.8% Turn Out

This year, voter turnout for non-residence-specific positions on the McMaster Students Union First Year Council sat at approximately 23 percent, with approximately 1,147 students of the 5,000 potential voters participating in the election.

Turnout rates for first-year faculty representative positions were also low, with the majority of first year students not casting their vote. For instance, while voter turnout for niche programs such as arts and science sat at 35 percent, larger programs such as the McMaster Humanities Society only achieved a 4.8 percent turnout.

A lack of student participation in the MSU continues to be a pressing problem.

At last year’s General Assembly, which took place in March 2017

and was specifically designed to amplify McMaster students’ voices, only 16 voters registered. In the wake of the notably low voter turnout, Kathleen Quinn, former Student Representative Assembly (social sciences) member, put forward a motion to hold a general meeting aimed at increasing participation in the MSU from the start of the year.

Although the motion initially passed, it was knocked down at the SRA meeting on

23% Turn Out

Cassidy Bereskin News Reporter

GRANT HOLT / PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

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NEWS

Thursday, Oct. 26, 2017 | www.thesil.ca

Where do the grads go?

In recent years Hamilton has seen a rise in jobs, but McMaster undergrads are still choosing to leave the city

SILHOUETTE PHOTO ARCHIVES Donna Nadeem Contributor

Despite McMaster’s large undergraduate population, many students do not seem to want to stick around in Hamilton despite the growing number of jobs in the city.

The city of Hamilton has seen a drop in the unemployment rate as of May 2017 of 6.3 per cent to 5.2 per cent, which is the lowest rate the city has seen since Sept. 2015.

Yet students have typically been less likely to stay in Hamilton because they cannot find jobs that relate to either their education or interests. A “Your City Survey” was done in 2011 and then updated in 2016 that showed that McMaster was doing a better job of advertising job opportunities and that they have made significantly more efforts than the city of Hamilton.

In 2011, when the first survey was done, around 55 per cent of individuals surveyed

that they would consider living in Hamilton after graduation.

In 2016, a newer iteration of the survey showed a 20 per cent increase which now meant that 75 per cent of individuals would consider living in Hamilton after graduation.

Initiatives like Hack the City, a project created in 2016 by the current McMaster Students Union vice president (Finance), Daniel “Tuba” D’Souza, has given students the opportunity to learn more about employment opportunities in the city.

“I think Hack the City provided a valuable opportunity for students to learn more about projects occurring within the city of Hamilton in the healthcare, infrastructure and energy sectors,” said D’Souza.

Other initiatives like Hamilton Employment Crawl have been designed to educate third and fourth-year students on employment opportunities in Hamilton post-grad. Hamilton Employment Crawl was a

partnership between McMaster, Mohawk College, Redeemer University College and Hamilton Economic Development.

This event helps educate students on the career opportunities that existed post-grad in the city of Hamilton through a series of industry tours. One of the tours is a Small Business Enterprise Centre at City Hall where students learn how have their own start-up business in Hamilton.

“As both employment opportunities in the city and awareness of these opportunities from students through programs like the Hamilton Employment Crawl and the Career Fair, both hosted by the [Student Success Centre], continue to rise, I believe that students will have more of a reason to live and work in Hamilton after graduation,” said D’Souza.

A recent 2017 BMO Regional Market report done showed that the employment rate in Hamilton is up 12.5 per

A recent 2017 BMO Regional Market report done showed that the employment rate in Hamilton is up 12.5 per cent and that the unemployment rate is 4.2 per cent, the lowest in Canada outside of Quebec City and putting Hamilton in the top 10 for city labour market performance ranking in Canada. cent and that the unemployment rate is 4.2 per cent, the lowest in Canada outside of

Quebec City and putting Hamilton in the top 10 for city labour market performance ranking in Canada.

The job growth in Hamilton has increased astoundingly and that has definitely helped with the grad retention problem that Hamilton faced. Now that there are more employment op-portunities, students have a higher chance of finding jobs that are affiliated with their desired profession therefore making it more intriguing for them to want to stay in Hamilton.

“Hamilton is a fantastic city with an incredibly supportive community and a strong young professional network. I would love to stay in Hamilton if I can find an opportunity that will both challenge me and provide the opportunity for me to grow after I complete my term in April,” said D’Souza.

@theSilhouette

NEWS

www.thesil.ca | Thursday, Oct. 26, 2017

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Basic income comes to Hamilton Hamilton launches a pilot program as a part of the provincial government’s push for better social welfare

C/O GREG SOUTHERN ONTARIO / FLICKR

Sasha Dhesi News Editor

Some Hamiltonians may be receiving a little extra money with the basic income pilot’s first run underway.

The pilot program was introduced in April 2017 and is currently being held in Hamilton, Lindsay and Thunder Bay. Eligible individuals could receive $17,000 a year. Those in couples may receive up to $24,000 a year.

The program is set to last three years so that the government may study its effects before deciding to implement it province-wide. The effects will be studied by a third-party team of researchers, which includes McMaster experts and academics.

Basic income is a form of social security where the government offers a small sum of money to all those eligible once a month in order to ensure families are able to afford basic necessities. If implemented throughout the city, all those

eligible will receive a cheque, which the government feels is simpler than the current social assistance programs where individuals must apply.

The program hopes to alleviate major stressors that affect vulnerable workers, improve health and education for those living on low incomes. The program will be measured in terms of improvements in fields such as, but not limited to, food security, housing stability, education and training, employment and healthcare.

The history of basic income is one fraught with successes and failures. When first introduced in the United States in the 1960s, it came under fire from a multitude of groups whose criticisms ranged from lowering workers’ morale to distracting focus away from improving infrastructure. The results of the first pilot program in the United States during the Nixon administration found its results to be inconclusive.

Meanwhile in Canada, the Manitoba National Democratic

Party, in conjunction with the incumbent Liberal government, launched a pilot program, which had successes in Winnipeg and Dauphin from 1974 to 1979. Critics still held reservations, though, and the program was abandoned.

One of the main critiques of basic income stems from its shift in focus from austerity measures that would shift wealth within the country. On the other side, other critics argue that basic income would reduce the drive for people to work.

The Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives is largely in favour of the program, arguing it will assuage the burden placed on those living on lower incomes, especially with respect to healthcare.

“Of these social determinants of health, the most influential is income. Income is often referred to as the ‘determinant of the determinants’ because it influences access to other essentials for good health, such as where people can afford to live and how far they can go in

school,” argued physicians Ryan Meili and Danielle Martin in an essay for the CCPA’s report on basic income.

In addition, the same report found argued that a basic

The program hopes to alleviate major stressors that affect vulnerable workers, improve health and education for those living on low incomes. income would improve the livelihoods of seasonal workers, who largely make up the rural workers in Canada.

“Overall, a basic income promises to help us come to terms with our economy and job market as they actually exist — not as they exist in the imaginations of orthodox

and neoliberal economists — seasonal fluctuations and all,” argued Karen Foster, a sociology professor at Trent University, in the same report.

Meanwhile, the Northern Policy Institute argues that the policy, while effective in alleviating some stressors, will not sufficiently pull people out of poverty, which is the main goal of the basic income program.

“Consequently, it makes no sense to eliminate other social programs that have more specific goals, such as healthcare, job training, subsidized daycare and so on. Employment Insurance and the Canada Pension Plan are self-financed and serve very specific purposes in the economy — insuring against short-term job loss, and saving for retirement,” read the report.

As the program rolls out, only time will tell whether or not basic income can solve all the problems that it hopes to. @SashaDhesi

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FEATURE NEWS

Thursday, Oct. 26, 2017 | www.thesil.ca

The SRA’s turnover problem Three seats need to be filled by this year’s by-election, but why are people dropping out of the SRA? Takhliq Amir Contributor

The Student Representative Assembly by-election nomination period officially closed on Oct. 20, setting up the upcoming week for the campaigning period that will conclude with the election of three new SRA members.

Currently, there are two vacant seats on the SRA social sciences caucus and one seat on the kinesiology caucus.

These seats had been filled in the 2016-2017 year when elections were initially held but have since been vacated by the elected representatives for various reasons. One of these representations, Kathleen Quinn, SRA Social Science, had been re-elected for her second term, but has stepped down due to other commitments.

“My co-op with the city of Hamilton was extended and I knew I couldn’t pass up the opportunity. With the new board I was already making progress on my platform so it was a tough choice, but I had to go with the best opportunity for me and my career plans,” said Quinn.

With two empty seats on the Social Science caucus, however, there is arguably greater strain on the remaining members to adequately represent their faculty.

“As caucus leader, two open seats means we’re missing 40 per cent of our caucus. This means most of the decisions we make are usually tentative as we can’t set out to do a whole lot until we have a full caucus that can make decisions together,” said Uwais Patel, SRA (Social Sciences) caucus leader.

“The SRA is a leadership opportunity that is mostly self-driven; you get what you put into it. It means we have two less caucus members not fulfilling a platform, representing their faculty or supporting the caucus as a team,” he added.

He states that although such situations should not have adverse impacts in the long run, they do cause difficulty in managing responsibilities in the short term.

“We’ve had to put some of our projects on hold and

The SRA is completely run on volunteer labour, often taking up hours of each members’ week.

MADELINE NEUMANN / PHOTO EDITOR

re-evaluate some of the projects our former members had set out to accomplish. This ultimately means that we have less representation within the faculty and less support internally as a team. I believe the more voices you have, the more you can accomplish,” Patel said.

To compensate, Patel personally decided to run a stronger outreach and communications plan for the by-election in order to have greater outreach. On the MSU website, there is also a page by the SRA Social Science caucus that aims to smooth the election process for those running for a seat in this by-election.

Taking on greater responsibilities is not uncommon in the SRA, where representatives sit as active members on other

MSU committees in addition to their own workload to effectively represent their constituents.

However, this can also take time away from other extracurricular and work commitments and potentially present as a source of stress for the members, something that was acutely felt

by Quinn.

“The SRA provides support as it can through one-on-one [sessions] and setting firm deadlines, but one of the difficulties is that this organization relies heavily on volunteer labour. I found it difficult to balance my job outside of the MSU, school and responsibilities I have as a mature student that others may not have. I think it does affect your mental health as there has been an expectation in the past to work

“The SRA provides support as it can through one-on-one [sessions] and setting firm deadlines, but one of the difficulties is that this organization relies heavily on volunteer labour.”

Kathleen Quinn Former SRA member beyond what one should to maintain balance,” she said.

Quinn suggested that

there are options that the MSU should explore in lessening the workload of SRA members to ensure that they can balance their responsibilities with their academics or other commitments.

“I think that an honorarium, better compensation and accurate staff hours tracking is key. The culture needs to shift,” she said.

“Ambitious platforms are great, [but] they shouldn’t come at the expense of staff and volunteers… I think we need to discuss with the school how many basic services we are providing as a union and ask for more support,” Quinn added. @theSilhouette

NEWS

www.thesil.ca | Thursday, Oct. 26, 2017

| 7

Bringing more women into governments everywhere The Elect More Women conference hopes to inspire more women to run in elections

The Elect More Women conference hopes to inspire more women to take on leadership roles, whether it be in academia or in elections.

MADELINE NEUMANN / PHOTO EDITOR Janna Getty Contributor

As the city ramps up for another election in the coming year, local advocacy groups have begun working together to get more women in governance.

The Elect More Women Conference took place Oct. 21 at Hamilton’s city hall. The conference hopes to see more women in politics and ultimately work to build election teams.

“The most important thing about this conference is to drive home that women are capable, effective leaders with experience to bring to the table and government should reflect the diversity they serve,” said Daniela Giuletti, one of the coordinators of the conference.

The central aim of the conference is to provide women with the confidence to take the next steps, whatever that means for each individual. Whether that means leading a canvassing party, or putting their name forward as a candidate, Giulietti says it doesn’t matter, as long as women feel empowered and

The lack of representation of women in politics is reflected here at McMaster. Of the four positions on the board of directors in the McMaster Students Union, only one is held by a woman, and of the other nine positions on the executive board, only three are filled by women. supported as they leave the conference.

The lack of representation of women in politics is reflected here at McMaster. Of the four positions on the board of directors in the McMaster Students Union, only one is held

by a woman, and of the other nine positions on the executive board, only three are filled by women.

According to Giulietti, the lack of female representation in any level of government boils down to risk. Women risk a lot when running in politics, socially, professionally and emotionally. With this in mind, the idea supports the fact that while minorities are often underrepresented in politics, they are often heading community work and other initiatives behind the scenes. This is not a question of skill, the skills are obviously there, they are just not being utilized and appreciated in government and politics.

There are, however, opportunities for women at McMaster to get involved with Hamilton politics. Opting to participate in volunteer opportunities that offer important skill development, sitting in on Council Night at City Hall, speaking with student government, speaking with campaign offices or even getting involved with a campaign if you have customer service experi-

This is not a question of skill, the skills are obviously there, they are just not being utilized and appreciated in government and politics. ence. These opportunities are available to anyone, you just need to know where to look for them.

Guiletti argues lack of representation isn’t just the responsibility of women. To work towards fixing the issue, it must be tackled by the community, not just left to women to fix for themselves. Giulietti recommends student governments taking a look at their own campaign, and reevaluating whether or not it’s accessible to those who are usually underrepresented, as well as working to invite more women and diversity to their teams.

Karen Bird, a political science professor at McMaster, has previously stated that voters are not biased against women running for positions, and instead the issue being that women are not given the chance to run.

Bird recommends that electoral parties shoulder-tap women to run.

Canada, Hamilton and McMaster has a ways to go before we have equal representation in politics, and women still have barriers to overcome.

“We have incredibly capable women in office, and thankfully so many supportive men allies.

We also have men who think it’s okay to call women in sciences ‘Climate Barbie’,” Giulietti said.

“So the most incredible barrier to me, is that despite all of our gains, we still have this crap to contend with.”

@TheSilhouette

PRESIDENT’S PAGE

October 26, 2017 | thesil.ca

DANIEL TUBA D’SOUZA Vice President (Finance) vpfinance@msu.mcmaster.ca 905.525.9140 x24109

Every January, undergraduate students have the opportunity to elect the President of the MSU, who will represent the interests of the student body by acting as their primary spokesperson.

Later in March, three Vice Presidents are elected by the Student Representative Assembly (SRA) to assist, in different capacities, with representing McMaster students. These four individuals form the MSU Board of Directors, who work together to advocate on behalf of undergraduate students to the University, in addition to the municipal, provincial, and federal governments.

To some, what happens after those elections is less evident.

Progress on year plans may not be evident until a significant change is made, such as the introduction of a fall reading week or a referendum is held to build a new student centre. Over the

past few years, those elected to represent the MSU have been working to make ongoing projects and initiatives more visible.

One of our biggest priorities as elected representatives is to ensure transparency. Our goal is to help students understand how fees are used. It is important for leaders to articulate how much progress has been made on stated goals and projects.

This year, the MSU will host an Open House from October 30 to November 2, taking place in a different area of campus each day. On Monday, you will be able to meet the architects designing the new Student Activity Building. They are excited to hear student comments, suggestions, and critiques regarding the proposed design and floor plans.

It is important for leaders to articulate how much progress has been made on stated goals and projects From Tuesday until Thursday, students can visit our Popup Showcase, featuring an immersive layout that illustrates how student fees are allocated.

This is a great opportunity to learn more or provide feedback on MSU finances. The Board of Directors and SRA members will be on-hand, available to discuss progress concerning their plans for the academic year.

For those that prefer a presentation, there will be a Town Hall at Bridges on Wednesday night.

Students can hear firsthand from the Board of Directors more detailed and nuanced information as to the operations of the MSU. The Board looks forward to hearing student perspectives and an-

swering questions following the presentation. Complimentary refreshments will be provided. Visit msumcmaster.ca/learnmore for further details, including the full schedule for MSU Open House.

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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.

www.thesil.ca | Thursday, Oct. 26, 2017

EDITORIAL

| 9

Editorial Your money and HSR complaints Poor and inconsistent service should not go unnoticed crease with the MSU agreement to $187.67 this year, $206.17 next year and $225.55 in the final year of the contract despite no additions being made to the level of service.

The card used to cost $182.70 in 2015-2016 and $198.66 in 2016-2017 for the GSA, and continues to increase to $232.70, $257.39 and $284.40 over the next three years respectively with the Presto integration included.

These costs might be justifiable if the service ever lived up to its potential. It does not take a trained eye to note the near daily outrage on Twitter or the lack of response about topics such as the operator shortage, busses, including the 51, skipping stops due to being over packed and inconsistent arrival times.

Students respect individual drivers, the GoFundMe campaign for “Friendly Frank� being the best example of this, but it is difficult to advocate in favour of the bus service as the level of service appears to be decreas-

ing. This will only continue to be an increasing negative as the number of students increases at McMaster in addition to the costs.

It is difficult to put a positive spin on prices increasing $86.90 per MSU student and $101.70 from 2015-2016 to 2019-2020. It is even more difficult to place pressure on the service with the hard commitment of a binding contract. This is a city-wide issue that has a great deal of influence on how McMaster students commute from any distance from the university, and one that will likely continue without external intervention or pressure. It would be a poor bet to hope for anywhere close to the same amount of student support in the future.

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Weekly in-person volunteer meetings are Mondays at 3:30

Weekly in-person volunteer meetings are Mondays at 12:00

Shane Madill Editor-in-Chief

On Jan. 16, the students of McMaster voted in overwhelming support in favour of continuing the relationship with the HSR when it comes to the bus pass contract. The first round of voting had only 574 votes out of 7,231, not including abstentions, against any form of bus pass in the McMaster Students Union referenda. The Graduate Students Association had a similar result with only 18.3 per cent of students against their HSR referendum.

The result was the most expensive option available with the fall-winter and summer passes and expanded service of route 51 for increased frequency and later service. This was specified to be until 3 a.m. This is also what the level of service was prior to this new contract.

While the card used to cost $138.65 per student in 20152016 and $150.80 per student in 2016-2017, this continues to in-

Weekly in-person volunteer meetings are Mondays at 4:30

Weekly in-person volunteer meetings are Mondays at 1:30

@shanemadill

to power poo to 98ing presentations you nearly missed to contest wins to Buckcherry to flesh eating squirrels to NuuuTELLLLLah to a SoBi wine adventure to shooting your shot to Pennywise fan fiction to Hobbit blood

to oblivious housemates to my soul dying mid October to bread community infighting to Patreon to bullying to sad crowns to being on campus for 14 hours to normies to pretending all is gucci

to guys being dudes

to needing to rewind VHS tapes

to forking hummus

to Lysol face wiping

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MEDIA Interested in photography or videography? Want your art featured as the compliment to an article? Join Production!

Send them an email at: production@ thesil.ca Weekly in-person volunteer meetings are Tuesdays at 2:30

10 |

HUMANS

Kyle West Photo Reporter

So what were you just working on?

I was just studying for my microeconomics exam.

And that’s just a one-semester thing?

Yeah, it’s a first year course, and I’m actually third integrated science. So it’s a little bit outside my comfort zone doing some commerce courses rather than science.

Why did you choose that faculty for the summer?

I’ve found that I have a lot of interest in business, photography, digital marketing, digital media.

And I’m trying to explore that a little bit more. So wanting to take more economics and marketing courses rather than science — even though I’m still in the Faculty of Science. Just to see if I have more interests that I can sort of integrate... just like my program tries to do with science, haha.

You said you’re also into media production. Do you want to touch on that? What have you been working on in that field?

I do a lot of photography. I’m interested in videography, but I haven’t done anything with it... just more so for fun. But I really like visuals and being creative.

And so it’s just a really different aspect of that. I’ve been doing a few event, and doing some portraiture.

Have you always been into that kind of visual field?

Not really. I remember, as a kid, always liking drawing.

But I was never good at it. But then between Grade 10 and 11, I started picking up a small digital camera that my mom had. And I really liked the photos that were coming out, because it was so cool. I could show other people what I was seeing in different ways. I just sort of translated that more into digital photography, and then eventually cinematography, because that was something I really enjoyed. But it sort of just kept progressing to there until people asked me to take photos for them for money and to start creating more things that actually have meaning.

Thursday, Oct. 26, 2017 | www.thesil.ca

You had first started off just doing this work for yourself and now you are heading down the path of what others want?

Connor MacLean Integrated Science III

There was a point where I didn’t know why I was taking photos and I sort of came back to why I was taking photos. I was taking a lot of photos for events, but I started realizing I wanted to keep those memories and showcase those moments people didn’t see. I wanted to use that medium to make an impact, so I remember taking photos of the red dresses around campus and spreading awareness for missing indigenous women. So I want to get more into projects like that and about sustainability and science. Sort of integrating those.

It all ties together, marketing, science and media you can use them all mix and it in together in different ways.

Is this why you are summer classes right now? How do you see that faculty coming into your visuals?

I think it’s all branding, marketing. It’s great when you have something but how can you get the word out? How do you make it come across in an interesting way? How do you show that off to people to grow your business and your field. How do you use that to make an impact on your field? I think that doesn’t just come from just learning one thing so you kind of have to mix in the digital media, mix in the commerce, mix in the science and it all fits together somehow.

What do you say is the biggest difference between visuals, business and science?

I think there is an aspect of logic with all of it. I found in marketing you really have to understand the logic of it like the cause and effect but then the same thing with biology and physics there is logic behind it all. It just manifests in different ways, some is in math and others in economics. Then also with photography there

AARON DE JESUS / DIGITAL MEDIA SPECIALIST

is logic behind the technical settings, but then you also have to mix that in with the creative aspects of everything.

Would you say there are more similarities than differences then?

Yeah, I think if you break it down and look at what is really going on in the content, you can see that there are fundamental themes throughout. If you can understand those fundamental themes and apply the skills you can translate it to another field and succeed just as well.

What do you think is the coolest thing you’ve noticed between your actual program, your exploration into commerce and visuals?

I think it’s the fact that if you can understand them all you can manipulate them to all fit together well. I think with digital media and marketing you can brand your images in a different way and take that and better direct it towards your audience with the marketing and show them the scientific side.

I was taking photos of animals and nature and sort of combining the natural biological side

and the marketing of it then the actual media all together.

Are you planning to minor in commerce or that visual aspect?

I’m hoping to minor in sustainability. I think that is the route I want to go in and taking all those skills and then putting them towards sustainability and stuff like that. Hopefully end goal National Geographic, but that is really far off and almost impossible. But it’s good to dream big I guess.

facebook.com/HumansOfMcMaster

www.thesil.ca | Thursday, Oct. 26, 2017

The Silhouette

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Opinion Silenced multiculturalism The diversity of cultural backgrounds should be embraced and respected, not assumed.

Reem Sheet Opinion Editor

Recently, I boarded the HSR on a regular Friday morning, I sat down, called my mom, and braced myself for my daily hour commute.

When the bus gets packed, priority seating is given to parents with strollers, people with disabilities and if your mother taught you as mine did, senior citizens.

So, when an elderly woman in a hijab got on with a walker, I offered her my seat and assisted her in moving her walker aside.

That was my first mistake.

We should all respect each other’s individual backgrounds, and understand that though someone may look like a foreigner, does not mean that they are.

While still on the phone reassuring my mom that I was okay to take the bus without my brother and that Google maps had my back, I started to feel a nudge against my shoulder from an older woman, yelling back to her friend — Suzy — behind her.

It took me a bit to realize that what sounded like one of the many American rally videos on white supremacy, was actually a realit:. “These damn

Muslims thinking they can take my seat,” the nudging woman said to her friend, though she was clearly talking about me.

She brandished her cane at me and screamed towards her friend, “I’ll whack her head off with my cane if she ever tries to get in my way… this is my country! Send them back to where they came from!” I later learned that this old lady’s name was Adeline from her friend Suzy, who was encouraging her.

At this point, I had gotten off the phone with my mom and stood between these two women. I said nothing. I did nothing. I simply stood there, being nudged.

On this extremely packed bus, no one seemed to notice what had just happened until my head hit one of the poles and my bag hit the ground.

The operator abruptly slammed the brakes on the bus and came to intervene. Thankful, I stood and looked at him with hope.

The operator rushed to the woman and in an barely audible whisper he said, “You better stop what you’re doing otherwise you’re going to get us both in trouble,” walked the woman back to her seat and went back to the wheel. I stood there in astonishment, silent and invisible.

As a new hijabi who has been a Canadian citizen since I was six years old, and a Hamilton resident since I was two, this experience was a shock to me.

Though experiencing discrimination was not something new to me, this experience was the only one to bring me tears.

Not because I was aggressively pushed on an operating bus, but because I knew that if it wasn’t me, it might have been the elderly woman with the walker.

Though we all reside in Canada, not all of us call this

CATHERINE TARASYUK / PRODUCTION EDITOR

country our home. I do. My siblings do. But this is not the case for everyone, and we must consciously avoid opposing assumptions.

With over 100 different languages, cultures and faiths shared by over 200,000 Canadian immigrants, culturally identifying an individual can be a challenge.

Canada is reputably a country that takes pride in being progressively multicultural and diverse.

As students who attend institutions that welcome students internationally to share in our university experiences, it is important to respect understand the backgrounds we each come from.

We are all immigrants.

Whether we were born and raised here, or moved here with our parents, or are on a student visa, we each come from different cultural backgrounds that are attached to cultural stereotypes and generalizations.

But just like all diverse groups, whether it be gender, race, religion, ethnicity or culture, we all reserve the right to define ourselves the way we choose to.

We should all respect each other’s individual backgrounds, and understand that though someone may look like a foreigner, does not mean that they are.

I am clearly Muslim, but when it comes to my race,

culture and ethnicity, some may consciously see my physical identity and subconsciously assume my story. But if I have the right to determine my own gender, I should have the right to tell my own story. I should not be left in silence.

As a visible hijab-wearing Muslim, my identity remains what I choose it to be. I am Canadian, and I am Muslim, not one or the other.

In my “back of the bus” experience, I was invisible. And no one should ever have their individual stories silenced by presumption. After all, you know what they say about those who assume. @ReemSheet

The title and header for the article “Muslim stereotyping and media” in the physical edition of the Oct. 19 issue of the Silhouette were accidentally changed from what was originally planned for publication and do not represent the work of the author. The original versions can be found online.

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OPINION

Catarina Gonzalez Contributor

In light of a protest promoting medical marijuana on campus, we should reconsider our attitudes and understanding towards weed. The Breathe Easy campaign, on a provincial and national spectrum, seems to have a positive impression on certain audiences. However, on others such as myself, the campaign is not a positive one.

Marijuana has long held a stigma comparable to smoking cigarettes but far more dramatic. But Christopher Lawson, the local activist who was responsible for the 4:20 protest on Oct. 6, was onto something.

For McMaster University

Say

Thursday, Oct. 26, 2017 | www.thesil.ca

and for Canadians as a whole, the debate on the effects of weed is both ongoing and divisive. Thanks to Justin Trudeau, however, there seems to be a greater Canadian open-mindedness towards weed. With the legalization of marijuana, the stigma against recreational use has decreased. Some Canadians are beginning to understand the positive affects of marijuana and its recreational benefits.

Marijuana was accepted in Canada by Trudeau based on popular demand and opinion.

According to an Ontario-based public opinion forum that was taken, prior to the legalization, among 1,003 Ontario voters, 56 per cent approve of legalized marijuana. Given these numbers, it should not be difficult to compare this ratio to the number of people on campus who would also advocate for marijuana use on campus.

At the Student Representative Assembly meeting on Sept. 24, the SRA cautioned the

university about the smoking ban and asked them to consider the marginalized groups who may be affected by addition and substance abuse on campus.

The SRA advocated against the smoking ban in order to emphasize the importance of being considerate of student safety, accessibility and the possible responses that some students may have to the implementation process.

McMaster claims that “by designating the campus tobacco and smoke-free the university is creating an environment promoting health and wellness,” neglecting to recognize that the ban is shunning out those who may currently be struggling with withdrawal effects.

In addition, the university believes that, “For the first months, anyone found in contravention of the policy will be asked to refrain from smoking or using tobacco and will be referred to a cessation program or given access to supports and resources.” The implementation of these goals is way too optimistic and a little too secluding.

With the smoking ban, McMaster may look like it is

YES

moving forward in university progression, but for a number of its students, it is doing the exact opposite of that. Since Canada is moving forward with an open mind to the diversity of leisure and stress-relieving methods, McMaster should consider doing the same. McMaster should try to address the overwhelming current demand for all recreational use of marijuana to be legalized, as cigarettes are.

This does not mean the university should actively promote the substance, but it should at least include those who are for the use of marijuana in their decision-making process.

Yes, there are stereotypes and generalizations made against those who use marijuana recreationally, and no, they are not positive images of those people. But just like any other group that is associated with stereotypes and generalizations, we have our own reasons, and we should be allowed to have our own voices as well. The smoking ban should not be able to diminish my autonomy, nor should it be able to choose how I affect my health for me.

Like all life decisions, I am only affecting myself and I am responsible for my own actions. @theSilhouette

to weed on campus The stigma needs to be addressed and I’m here to address it

OPINION

www.thesil.ca | Thursday, Oct. 26, 2017

| 13

Say

NO

to weed on campus The recent announcement of the smoking ban and the growing prominence of the Breathe Easy Campaign has fractured the McMaster community

Alex Bak Contributor

Some seem adamantly opposed to the legalization of weed and its association with an academic community, others feel that we should take a more open-minded perspective. The most interesting feedback were the students who conveyed a stance against excluding weed from the McMaster smoking ban. Given that Canada has made room for marijuana by legalizing it federally in Canada, making room for the substance on campus should also be considered.

When interviewed, a

McMaster student said, “I think that the legalization of marijuana and its presumed effects on campus won’t affect me. It’s like smoking: majority of my friends do it, doesn’t mean that I will.

It definitely will intensify the pressure to start smoking [marijuana] but I’ve gone 19 years already. I doubt a bill that’s simply following the footsteps of what’s already been going on will break my streak.”

Being aware of all the different layers at play to pass this legislation, in addition to understanding the smoking ban policy on campus, being mindful is a key component of understanding the bigger picture... and not just in blazing sense.

The McMaster smoking ban will

prohibit all forms of smoking on campus encompassing both tobacco and marijuana. The goal is that this will be carefully regulated on campus in a “phased” manner. Though McMaster hopes to remove smoke from campus and promote a healthy smoke free environment for McMaster students, the chance that current smokers with adhere to this is likely to be slim.

The Breathe Easy campaign is set to improve overall health for Mac students by eliminating secondhand smoke for those who do not want to be subject to its effects. This is essential because, though some may not know this, cigarettes and smoke is actually something that students can be allergic to. I can personally vouch for this, as I have a friend who actually is allergic to smoke, and struggles to breathe when exposed to its effects by other students. In retrospect, if nut allergies can be respected, so can smoke-related allergies.

A major point in the arsenal for fellow students who are against the ban in the context of marijuana is the fact that medical marijuana users will be marginally affected. In light of recent weed protests organized by Christopher Lawson,

a local activist prominent in the community promoting medical marijuana showed why weed does not have a place on campus by inviting students to smoke a joint.

One key facet that they have yet to explore relates to the pharmaceutical industry.

Once the substance is legalized, pharmaceutical companies will undoubtedly race to find new, more efficient and medically applicable ways to intake the drug in order to take advantage of this, as history proves, formerly illegal multibillion-dollar industry.

In regards to the legalization affecting employees or students, it is already against the Code of Conduct to come inebriated or under the influence to work; the legalization, pertaining to the academia of the university, will not deface the McMaster prestige. If anything, it may bolster its standing as a research-intensive university as part of the U15 group due to the increased flexibility for research for the clinical and biological affects of the substance, proving that this ban will only improve McMaster’s reputation on a global and a national scale.

The McMaster student body is not wrong to follow mainstream opinions. It is nat-

ural to be swayed by the stances of the representative bodies of the community. Cigarettes and the legalization of tobacco in Canada was a prime example of this. And yet, here we are, trying to get rid of all smoke on campus.

However, due to the lack of transparency of the chips on the table for both the smoking ban and legalization policies, we can only resort to form rudimentary viewpoints.

The McMaster Students Union in coordination with Hamilton Public Health and McMaster’s own interest groups aim to increase the transparency in this controversial issue so that we can all have a more informed and developed stance. Shrouded in technical jargon, a clear message remains. Marijuana has no place at McMaster and we can only trust that this is for the best. @theSilhouette

MADELINE NEUMANN / PHOTO EDITOR GRANT HOLT / PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

TWELVEIGHTY

The Silhouette | 15

www.thesil.ca | Thursday, Oct. 26, 2017

Arts & Culture Razan Samara A&C Reporter

I have fond memories sitting in front of a TV watching hours of prime time television shows, but somewhere along the lines of the fall of Disney Channel in ’09 and the calamity that ensued thereafter, I developed TV commitment issues.

Breaking my childhood binge watching habits meant that I no longer planned my days around the airtime of Lizzie McGuire and the Suite Life of Zack and Cody, but it also left me unable to commit to long series that I feared would waste my time.

I still needed TV in my life, but I refused to watch good shows. Simply put, good TV

builds standards and expectations, which just opens the door for subsequent bitter disappointment.

So I started watching terrible shows that I knew would get cancelled, like Minority Report, a drama and mystery that took more turns than I can count before hastily ending after 10 episodes.

This lifestyle choice was completely risk-free. There was no attachment nor commitment. It even made me a better person.

I became more honest by watching terrible TV shows.

I no longer felt pressured to conform into a fake fangirl. I was no longer spending time searching up major plot lines and funny moments so I would

have something to talk about with friends. I avoided the fan bases all together because there were none.

The only downside is that shows get a little boring.

To overcome this challenge, I turn to my mother’s advice while growing up as a socially awkward kid who didn’t have anyone to hang out with.

“It’s up to you to make things fun. Even if you’re by yourself in a boring place, you can create your own happiness”.

So I did. I sought entertainment from poor acting, cheesy lines and terrible production. I found unrealistic visual effect hilarious, especially fight scenes where actions and reactions never seemed to be in sync.

I watched Shadowhunters,

a science fiction drama that follows human-angel hybrids as they battle demons, just to see how they attempted to make Toronto look like Chicago. I watched a clip of the characters on a rooftop and I could feel the struggles of the cameramen trying to avoid the CN tower.

They didn’t succeed.

My instincts that the show would get cancelled were proved wrong. Despite losing half a million viewers by the first eight episodes, the drama series has been renewed for a third season.

Needless to say, I stopped watching in fear that they improved their convoluted plotlines and production.

There were many other shows to choose from, like the one season of the comedy

Limitless based on the thriller movie of the same name and Selfie which only survived 13 episodes. There was no way I was watching 10 seasons of Doctor Who, so the failed spin-off was convenient.

I absolutely dreaded being asked what shows I watch out of fear of exposing my commitment issues, but once I started dialogue on my struggles, I realized that many people around me had their own TV confessions to make.

Not everyone can commit to long series and can handle the deep affection and attachment for fictional shows. It simply isn’t for me. I’m happy with my one-season wonders and shows that shouldn’t have been written in the first place. @theSilhouette

Br eaking Bad habits 35

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How I learned to come to terms with TV commitment issues

GRANT HOLT / PRODUCTION COORDINATOR

16 |

A&C

Fearless in New York City Liz Chamberlain’s resilience in the face of adversity inspires community

Thursday, Oct. 26, 2017 | www.thesil.ca

Razan Samara A&C Reporter

Liz Chamberlain will be running the New York City Marathon in two weeks, but the journey to the start line was anything but easy. Despite battling an invisible illness after a head injury, she found strength in art and running, and is now inspiring others along the way to the finish line.

Chamberlain is a McMaster alumna, and is working as an x-ray and mammography technologist at Credit Valley Hospital in Mississauga. The mother of two is also a talented painter and avid marathon runner, two things she didn’t expect to be while studying at McMaster.

In March of 2013, Chamberlain suffered an head injury during a night shift that left her severely overwhelmed by multiple stimuli, including bright lights, background sounds and moving objects. The injury also impaired her ability to read easily and organize and prioritize her thoughts.

“

Every move isn’t going to be pretty and enjoyable, but in the end, you have to be able to work through it and trust the journey.

Liz Chamberlain By the end of the summer, Chamberlain found herself severely depressed and frustrated from the lack of recovery. She was diagnosed with post-concussion syndrome and she completed a ten-week Intensive Outpatient Program where she learned the importance of self-care.

“That program gave me permission to take care of myself, because up until that point in time, I was always a caregiver, I give to other people, I didn’t take time for myself, I didn’t have a hobby,” explained Chamberlain.

Through the program, Chamberlain was encouraged to set goals and take the time to take care of herself. She started listening to audiobooks and do online workshops like Kelly Rae

A&C

www.thesil.ca | Thursday, Oct. 26, 2017

Roberts’ Hello Soul, Hello Mixed Media Mantras.

Chamberlain was also inspired by Brené Brown’s book, The Gifts of Imperfection, to start art journaling, which she found therapeutic.

“That’s when I started out with Cocktails n’ Canvas, which is a local social paint night. I went to one of those with my friend. I was really overwhelmed by the crowds and had some trouble but once I got into it, I found out that I loved to paint… I didn’t expect to have something at the end of the night that I thought I liked,” explained Chamberlain.

It was the first time she had painted since elementary school, but the very next day Chamberlain bought paints and canvases and started making art. She learned self-care and letting go of perfectionism through painting. Now, she’s part of the Cocktails n’ Canvas team and has lead her own workshops.

“There are no mistakes, there are only happy accidents.

One move leads to the next move, and even if you don’t like that move, it will lead you to something you will enjoy in the end,” explained Chamberlain.

“You have to work through the mess, work through the ugly stage, and it was one of those lightbulb moments, where I’m like ‘that’s exactly like life’.

Every move isn’t going to be pretty and enjoyable, but in the end, you have to be able to work through it and trust the journey.”

Chamberlain’s mood had been improving, but she still was struggling with energy.

That’s when she started attending classes at the Stoney Creek Running Room. She not only found an accepting and supportive community, but her fellow runners became like family she can rely on.

“I participated in Relay Race Around the Bay this past spring, I ran 15 km and passed off to another lady, and took a bus back to the finish line to cheer people on. This feeling of family and the excitement that I had and felt from everybody else when the ladies came in, it was amazing. I felt like I belonged,” she said.

Running introduced Chamberlain to new friends and opportunities to expand her art. Chamberlain attended a talk by Darcy Patrick, author of Why I Run, while she was at another low spot in her life. She was encouraged by his book to

start using mantras to motivate her while running.

“When things start to get hard then I tell myself that I am strong, I am confident, I am fearless, I am courageous and I am powerful. All of these affirmations help me to get through the hard times in the run,” said Chamberlain.

Patrick was impressed by Chamberlain’s resilience and one day asked her to paint him a piece for the anniversary of his book. He was so impressed by her talent that he decided to make the painting the cover of his upcoming book.

It was a challenge for Chamberlain to start running, she was never an athlete and had struggled with her weight, but with rigorous training and determination, she went from alternating between a running and walking routine, to running 5k, 10k and three half-marathons.

“

She also wants others battling invisible illnesses and disabilities to know that they aren’t alone.

She wants to encourage others to talk about their struggles and relate to one another.

Chamberlain is now training for the New York City Marathon and had been selected as a team member for 261 Fearless, a non-profit that empowers and unites women through running.

The historic 42.1 km marathon goes through all five boroughs of the city, with supporters cheering on runners at every corner.

Chamberlain will be running the race with 14 other women, including Kathrine Switzer, the woman behind 261 Fearless and the first woman to run the Boston Marathon in 1967.

| 17

“Being somebody who wasn’t an athlete all their life, and being overweight, I feel like I’m really showing people that you don’t have to be in perfect form to do amazing things. Just go out and try it and if you do the training properly, you can do it just the way you are,” said Chamberlain.

Chamberlain’s message is loud and clear; don’t be afraid to follow your heart, just go out there and do it, and trust that journey will lead you to your intended or even better outcome.

Just like how so many people have inspired her, Chamberlain hopes that by sharing her story she will be able to connect with people and encourage others to follow their dreams and inspirations.

She also wants others battling invisible illnesses and disabilities to know that they aren’t alone. She wants to encourage others to talk about their struggles and relate to one another.

“The power of that ‘me too’ is phenomenal. One of the things that Brené Brown says is that shame can’t survive being shared, so if you talk about your shame or what’s making you feel bad, then it actually lessens the impact of it. I think it’s really important,” said Chamberlain.

Chamberlain’s journey doesn’t end at the finish line.

She will continue to push her limits, overcome her struggles and be ready for the next challenge, while sharing her story every step of the way through her art and writing on her blog; Embrace Your Inspiration.

@theSilhouette

Join Liz Chamberlain on Oct. 27 for a 5k Run Walk to fundraise for team Fearless 261.

Event details can be found at facebook.com/ EmbraceYourInspiration

fill a gap in your program

Athabasca University has over 850 courses for you to choose from to meet your needs. Monthly start dates of undergraduate courses fit into your schedule so that you can work at your own pace.

Fill the gap and save a semester.

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McMaster Students Union’s

EVENTS CALENDAR SHEC: Sex 101

Maccess: Spooky Cupcake Social

ChocoSol Fair Trade Café and Talk

Thursday, October 26, 2017

Wednesday, November 1, 2017

Time: 12:00pm to 4:00pm Where: MUSC B111

Time: 10:00am to 5:00pm Where: MUSC 230

Maroons

Bridges: Stories for the Soul

Thursday, October 26, 2017 Time: 7:00pm to 8:30pm Where: Hedden Hall

FYC: Jamfactor Thursday, October 26, 2017

Friday, October 27, 2017

Time: 8:00pm to 11:00pm Where: Bridges Café

MACycle: Bike Ride

Time: 6:30pm to 9:00pm Where: MUSC Fireplace

OPIRG: Fair Trade Fest

Thursday, October 26, 2017 Time: 5:30pm to 8:00pm Where: Mills Plaza

Stay Connected:

Wednesday, November 1, 2017 Time: 8:00pm to 11:00pm Where: Bridges Café Check out the full Events Calendar at:

Wednesday, November 1, 2017 Time: 10:00am to 5:00pm Where: MUSC Marketplace

/MSUMcMaster

msumcmaster.ca/events

@MSU_McMaster

msumcmaster.ca

A&C

www.thesil.ca | Thursday, Oct. 26, 2017

| 19

A local story years in the making

The Pearl Company’s play Here’s Johnny presents social issues in their own backyard

C/O GARY SANTUCCI Hafsa Sakhi Contributor

Just off of King Street East on Steven Street lies the Pearl Company, one of Hamilton’s premier performance centres.

Run by musician and artist Gary Santucci and arts activist Barbara Milne, the company is in the midst of their latest production, Here’s Johnny, a tale that explores the lives of locals facing poverty, addiction and trauma.

Santucci was inspired to use the play as reflection on his life in Hamilton, and the theatres surrounding neighborhood on Steven Street.

“Here’s Johnny came from our time here, living and working and running the Pearl Company, so the inspiration or the trigger was initially the environment around us, the feel of living here and many social issues that crop up in living and working in a sacrifice zone,” said Santucci.

A sacrifice zone is a neighborhood that has been left with permanent environmental

damage or economic downturn, often marked after the departure of large local industries.

“A lot of things are here where they’re not really tolerated elsewhere… there’s a whole diverse situation of community to many wounded people who need help and services,” said Santucci.

“The majority of what is portrayed in the play is derived from reality, things that have happened. Bob, the main character… represents a composite of me and my interaction on the street,” explained Santucci.

“That idea of me sweeping the streets and being out there and looking after our neighbourhood. [Then there’s] the older street [sex worker], the survivor.”

Actress Robin Zee plays the older sex worker Ginger, and a real-life survivor of human trafficking and street prostitution.

Santucci says Zee was a catalyst for the play to finally be shown, after eight years in the making.

“Getting to know her and her experience helped me

validate my assumptions… so I could write in that perspective, not simply from an older white guy’s point of view, but it was validated by someone who had gone through everything and come out the other side intact.”

The process of writing Here’s Johnny was cathartic for Santucci, as he and Milne face their 12th year on Steven Street, along with the possibility of moving the company in the future.

“We’re booked up till next year, the end of next year, and then maybe more, even longer… but from the perspective of telling [the story of Here’s Johnny], Barbara being there, through our experiencing it, that’s our shared story in a way.

All the protagonists and characters on the street, that’s their story too,” said Santucci. “[Currently, today] is the most creative time in my life, really, I’ve been challenged… had issues with our city government, with regards to zoning, with our building. We’ve had to fight for our own existence and operate and do this beauti-

ful stuff we do here, have live concerts, live theatre, which contravened a bylaw, so we’ve fought that to stalemate in the courts,” recalled Santucci.

“Half my waking time was fighting government, half was creating beautiful things, and I always try to balance the two and always have the beautiful things at least add a little more weight.”

“Our role as artists is to really reflect the truth about what we see… it in some artful way that people can relate to it in a specific manner that’s not threatening, that’s not an argument.”

Gary Santucci Director The Pearl Company

Santucci hopes his play will stimulate people’s questions and thinking around certain issues, from street prostitution to drug abuse, violence, and homelessness.

“Our role as artists is to really reflect the truth about what we see… it in some artful way that people can relate to it in a specific manner that’s not threatening, that’s not an argument… a play is not an argument, a play is a story, you listen and observe and then you reflect on it, so putting ideas forward… [a] lifelong pursuit of knowledge and education… this what I advocate.”

Here’s Johnny puts a face to a name, of the people which inhabit and work in low-income, high crime neighbourhoods.

The message is clear: the vulnerable should not be ignored.

Here’s Johnny will be performed at the Pearl Company Theatre October 25-28. Tickets are $25, and $20 for students and seniors. @theSilhouette

FIRST TERM NIGHTLIFE OCTOBER 26

Angels and Devils

NOVEMBER 9

Jersey Night!

NOVEMBER 16

All Ages

NOVEMBER 23

Country Night

DECEMBER 6

Afro-Caribbean Night

Visit us for: WIDE FORMAT printing, PROJECT binding, BUSINESS cards, ROLL UP banners, BLACK + WHITE and COLOUR printing, + SO MUCH MORE!

A&C

www.thesil.ca | Thursday, Oct. 26, 2017

| 21

Culinary Class Act

Islands Caribbean Takeout

Delicious and convenient Caribbean food for those late Friday night take out cravings Daniel Arauz A&C Editor

What it is On the Hess Street Village side of King Street West lie a number of take-out-oriented restaurants for residents in need of a quick bite and for the late-night crowds on Friday and Saturday evenings.

The strongest recommendation out of all these locations easily goes to Islands, one of my favourite Caribbean restaurants in the city.

Islands serves up great jerk chicken, oxtail, roti and curry goat.

Their delicious range of Caribbean staples are sure to keep you coming back for more.

Islands is easily one of the best take-out restaurants in a downtown core that is seeing a less new options for student budgets.

Hot to get there from Westdale/Ainslie Wood Hop on the 1, 5 or 51 bus from campus to Main and Caroline.

From there, walk north to King Street West.

Islands will be on the other side of the street, just across the neighbouring convenience store and Vida La Pita restaurant plaza.

Price Range

Why it’s great

On average, prices range from $6 to up to $12. Rotis average at around $7, and many of the vegetarian roti options and rice dishes are only around $6. Large dinner-sized portions of rice dishes like jerk chicken, oxtail, goat curry and stewed chicken are between $10 to $12.

It’s also worth noting that there is no additional delivery charge for orders over $20 through Skip the Dishes. Islands also now available to order through UberEats.

Some days you just want to skip the fast food in favour of some combination of rice, veggies and protein, and Islands provides a comforting replacement for a home-cooked meal.

While their small location still has plenty of tables for small groups to stop by and enjoy, I’ve always appreciated Islands’ commitment to keeping up with the most convenient online delivery services.

I’ve been going to Islands since I was in high school, often when I find myself stuck in downtown closer to dinner than I anticipated.

After my first try, I quickly found that myself coming up with more and more excuses to treat myself to their food before meeting with friends, or before a commute back home.

Islands has consistently provided many options that are as good as a home-cooked meal, something that has become more valuable as I spend fewer evenings at home.

One of the most consistently satisfying food experiences for me in this city is coming to Islands after a long, busy afternoon, smelling the familiar combination of spices and stew and getting that first whiff of your freshly cut roti.

Must-order item While the menu isn’t necessarily made for sharing, I would recommend ordering a combination of a small roti and small rice dish to get a good taste for the menu (and still get a substantial amount of food for under $15).

For main rice dishes containing meat, you can’t go wrong with jerk chicken and oxtail on rice and peas. While I personally go for stew chicken roti or curry goat, the vegetarian channa roti and pumpkin roti are also fantastic options. If you’re not one for deliberating over menu combos, a large-sized portion of any of the rice dishes are more than enough to keep you happy and full.

@danielarauzz

Jerk chicken served with white rice and coleslaw.

MADELINE NEUMANN / PHOTO EDITOR

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GAMES

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Puzzle 3 (Easy, difficulty rating 0.40)

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24. Les ____-Unis 27. Echo, for one 29. Son of Rebekah 30. IOU 31. Newcastle’s river 32. Wander 33. Wrinkly fruit 34. Util. bill 36. Common chord 39. Continental inhabitant 41. Bones found in the hip 44. Bodily organ 46. Slide 49. ____ degree 51. Primordial substance 53. Outspoken

8

7

Down 1. Charged toward 2. Clued in 3. Affirmatives 4. Discloses 5. Ms. DiFranco 6. Down with the flu 7. Shopaholic’s delight 8. Children’s refrain 9. Rare metallic element 10. Fish-eating eagle 11. Et ____ 12. Sharp 15. Disney honcho 17. Web address starter 21. Turndowns 23. Ballerina’s skirt

6

55. Agenda details 56. Tennessee ____ Ford 57. French composer Erik 58. Wet blanket?

59. Queue 60. Words of comprehension 61. Comic Carvey 65. Youngster 66. Alphabet trio

8

2

2

3

7

6

8

9

7 4

1

6

4 7

8

3 7

6

5

5

1

5

2

3

5 2

9

Generated by http://www.opensky.ca/sudoku on Wed Oct 25 18:12:22 2017 GMT. Enjoy!

9

The Silhouette

www.thesil.ca | Thursday, Oct. 26, 2017

| 23

Sports Young and dangerous A new season and a revamped men’s soccer team have positioned the Marauders to have a strong playoff run

MADELINE NEUMANN / PHOTO EDITOR Lucas Uggenti Contributor

Following a rather unsuccessful 2016 season, the McMaster Marauders men’s soccer team was determined to flip the script and make the 2017 campaign a much more lucrative one.

Facing adversity right from the get-go, the soccer team was going to be without their returning veterans Aleks Vincic, Marco Gennaccaro and Kieran Doyle-Davis. All three had solidified a starting position on last year’s roster and played an important role as the team leaders on and off the pitch. While the loss of the team’s big three left a hole in the roster, this made room for new players to step up and claim the leadership role.

The team forged ahead, leaning heavily on their new fifth-year players, hoping they would be able to fill the void.

Having trained together as a team throughout the offseason and improving with every training session, the transitional period came with ease and the integration of a new formation

and system suited the players well, leaving team morale high entering the new season.

“Confidence was high, we played as a unit and trusted one another,” said Carlo Difeo, starting right wing back. “We worked a lot harder collectively and it made all the difference.”

The team came out firing on all cylinders, exploding for a 6-0 victory in their first game against Waterloo. A total of nine players registered at least one point in their season opener while keeper Tristan Joyce made five saves en route to the team’s first clean sheet of the season.

Following the dominating win against Waterloo, the boys defeated Laurier in defensive fashion, earning yet another clean sheet in a 1-0 victory.

Optimism was as the forefront of emotions for head coach Dino Perri who saw his team start the season off well, dominating their first two games, which was considerably different than last year’s start.

Despite such a strong start to the season, McMaster is challenged with playing in one of the toughest leagues in the country,

resulting in a wave of difficult games. The Marauders were beaten in two of their next three games, gaining only three out of a possible nine points.

“We had a lot of ups and downs, starting the season with two opening wins and making a big statement to league,” stated Difeo. “Unfortunately, the losses to York and Western were upsetting, knowing we were the better team. It gave us a reality check, realizing we have to take every game seriously from this point on.”

A reality check was certainly in place, as the Marauders strung together a series of wins in consecutive fashion following the tough loss to York. The Marauders were dealt a tough rebound game playing the defending league champions, the Guelph Gryphons.

The boys defeated last year’s champion with ease, holding a 4-2 lead after the final whistle blew. The game seemed to spark the Marauders as they continued to steam roll ahead, winning their next three contests and claiming points in four of five games.

A big part of the team’s success thus far has been the performance of Sasha Ricciuti, Yunus Mallayev and Chris Luxton. Ricciuiti has been the most productive Marauder this season, tallying a total of seven goals and three assists for a total of 10 points in 14 games played.

“Everything goes through Mallayev,” said Perri. “He’s been great as a player and a good leader on and off the pitch. Ricciuiti and Luxton are fifth-year guys, they know what it takes.

Their biggest contribution is passing on their leadership to the young guys on the team.”

The Marauders finished the season on a strong note, rattling off four more wins outscoring their opponents 12-2. The team will finish with three more wins and a total of seven more points than last season. Ending on a high note, the team plans to keep their momentum up heading into the postseason.

“The regular season has been a success thus far, but the real season starts in the playoffs and the standard is nationals,” stated a determined coach Perri.

“We’re in the toughest league in

Canada, anyone we meet from here on in will be a tough game.

As long as we’re prepared and come out to do what were capable of, we’ll be okay.”

McMaster erased any negative notion that this season was going to be a struggle. Coach Perri was able to describe the season in one phrase, stating it was a “learning curve”, adding, “The guys did a great job of adapting and making the season a good one.”

The determined Marauder squad will finish second place in the table with a total of 37 points. They have earned themselves a bye to the quarterfinals, which will take place Oct. 28.

There were some growing pains for this up-and-coming young Marauders team but this year was not robbed of its entertainment. There were no shortages of compelling storylines during this impressive season, leaving expectations high as they enter the playoffs.

@theSilhouette

24 |

Thursday, Oct. 26, 2017 | www.thesil.ca

The Silhouette

Preparing for the playoffs Jessica Carmichael Sports Reporter

Not too long ago the Marauders began their 2017 season, not knowing who would be their starting quarterback. But as the regular season comes to a close, Jackson White has answered that question.

“It’s been a great experience,” said White of his first season. “I’ve met a lot of good friends and teammates. The game is different and faster than in high school with the bigger and stronger guys coming at you, but so far it has been going well.”

White may not be in high school anymore, but he is happy to have his high school teammates Riley Pilkey, a cornerback, and Mario Alyas, a defensive back, on the team. Pilkey is in his second year and has helped White settle in at Mac during his first season.

“One pregame

ritual I have to do every game is play catch with Riley Pilkey as well as eating breakfast with Joseph O’Brien on the field.”

“

One pregame ritual I have to do every game is play catch with Riley Pilkey as well as eating breakfast with Joseph O’Brien on the field.”

Jackson White Quarterback

White has been adjusting to McMaster quite well, but one thing that has surprised him is how bad his style is. Not his style of play, but rather his style of dress.

“[The guys on the team] call it the ‘No Swag-Swag’,” White said. “I’m not up to speed with that, but I guess you got to look good, feel good and play good, so I have to change that up a bit.”

The first year, 6’4” quarterback from Cambridge, Ont. may not be receiving any cool points for his fashion sense this season, but his playing style in his first season as a university-level starting quarterback has been impressive.

His first official game as a starter, which also happens to be his favourite game so far, was against the Ottawa Gee-Gees.

Winning 24-7 at home, White helped lead Mac in the first win of a five-game winning streak.

Since the win against Ottawa, White and the Marauders have ruined homecoming for the Guelph Gryphons and won big at their own homecoming against the York Lions. The following week they crushed the University of Toronto’s Varsity Blues in a 43-6 victory. Then they got the “W” once again during their last regular season home game, handily beating the Windsor Lancers.

Unfortunately for Mac, the winning streak came to a halt in the last regular season

Quarterback Jackson White reflects on his first regular season loss as starter and how Mac plans to get ready for the playoffs

game, falling short at the hands of the Wilfred Laurier Golden Hawks on Sept. 21.

The Golden Hawks came out looking for vengeance after falling short to the Guelph Gryphons 24-14 the week before and took their frustrations out on the Marauders. Despite Mac’s best efforts, they were unable to stop them.

“It wasn’t the game that we thought it was going to be,” said White. “We had a good game plan going into the game and we didn’t quite execute that game plan.”

White was able to connect with Dan Petermann on a 98-yard touchdown pass in the second quarter and cut the lead in half, but the Golden Hawks answered back ending the half in the lead 24-7.

“They got the momentum early and it was hard to turn it around,” White said. “We thought after the halftime we could make a big comeback in the second half but we fell short.”

As defending Yates Cup champions, the Golden Hawks’ offence did not let the absence of starting quarterback Michael Knevel slow them down. In his place, freshman quarterback Tristan Arndt handled his first career start with ease, completing 18 of his 23 pass attempts for 213 yards and three touch-

downs. Arndt added 65 yards on three carries as well.

Some may have underestimated Arndt, especially given that Knevel is a top Canadian Football League prospect and Ontario University Athletics leader. But White was not surprised by Laurier’s rookie’s ability to win big.

“We knew their offence had weapons and we just didn’t execute across the board throughout the game,” said White. “[Arndt] had a good game and he played well against a great defence.”

Mac’s usually dominant defence, who had gone into the game only allowing 10 or more points on two occasions this season, struggled stopping Laurier’s explosive offence.

One of their hardest opponents to stop was OUA-leading receiver Kurleigh Gittens Jr. Finishing Saturday’s game with 10 catches for 114 yards and a touchdown, Gittens Jr. became the U Sports single-season leader with 75 receptions and leads his team in receiving yards leader with 953.

“It’s not the end of the world,” White reflected on the loss. “We’re going to play a good team in Queen’s and hopefully we’ll be right back there.”

The Marauders went into Laurier with the OUA’s second-place position they had just claimed the week before and a

SPORTS | 25

www.thesil.ca | Thursday, Oct. 26, 2017

Quarterfinal matchup

6

ranked

th in the OUA

possibility of having a bye week in the playoffs. Now in third place and no extra week to rest, the quarterfinal matchup has the makings to be a grueling battle.

The Gaels and the Marauders have yet to meet this season but both teams pose a threat to each other. Although Queen’s has had a slow start and is currently ranked sixth in the OUA, they have the current OUA touchdown passing leader, quarterback Nate Hobbs, and touchdown reception leader, receiver Chris Osei-Kusi, driving their offence.

3

ranked

Jackson White’s Pre-Game Playlist Title

Artist

Give me back my Hometown

Eric Church

4:12

Thunderstruck

AC/DC

4:53

Sandstorm

Darude

3:45

Dream On

Aerosmith

4:27

rd

in the OUA

What we know for sure is that the quarterfinal game will be tough, but Jackson White and the Marauders are not about to go down that easy. @jaaycarmichael

“

It’s do or die now so we’ll be ready to go” Jackson White Quarterback

“It’s do or die now so we’ll be ready to go,” said White. “It’s a home playoff game, everyone wants to play at home in the playoffs, so we’ve got to capitalize on that. We also have to execute well and hopefully, we’ll be successful.”

It’s time for playoff season and anything can happen in a do-or-die game, and the first round of the OUA playoffs promise to keep fans guessing.

KYLE WEST / PHOTO REPORTER

SPORTS

www.thesil.ca | Thursday, Oct. 26, 2017

| 26

Culture and Chemistry

Coming off a strong offseason that included wins over Ohio State, the men’s volleyball team is already building to a strong campaign Griffin Marsh Contributor

The McMaster men’s volleyball team showed grit, resiliency and power while taking both matches of the North American Challenge against two-time National Collegiate Athletic Association champions, the Ohio State Buckeyes.

World-class volleyball returned to the Burridge Gym last weekend as the men’s volleyball team hosted Ohio State for a two-game series, a preseason tune-up that has become synonymous with sold out crowds, hard hits and tremendous volleyball.

But to understand what this game means for this team, we must reverse the clocks a couple of weeks to this team’s preseason trip to Poland over reading week. While in Poland, the men were exposed to professional-level volleyball and have worked to reflect on that experience leading into this past weekend against Ohio State.

The opportunity to face some of Poland’s best and the NCAA’s best in the lead up to your U Sports regular season is a very unique reality, and something that is not lost on head coach Dave Preston.

“We have to do our student-athlete experience in our own way,” said Preston. “I am really happy with what we are able to provide our students in terms of their volleyball experience,” An important learning experience in Poland and a firm belief in the McMaster process from the head coach down set the stage for a two-match series against Ohio State this past weekend. The team was able to apply what they had learned in their offseason.

Remembering that the North American Challenge is a preseason friendly for both these teams was easy to forget when entering the packed, noisy gymnasium on both Saturday night and Sunday afternoon.

The first set on Saturday was close and intense, with McMaster squeaking out a 29-27 victory, much to the enjoyment of the roaring crowd.

The rest of Saturday’s match was an up-and-down affair, with the Buckeyes taking the next two sets, including a third

set that McMaster controlled throughout but lost after a few unlucky bounces near the end.

The resiliency was expressed in the last two sets as McMaster settled in, flipped the momentum and took the first match on a dominant fifth set, 15-8.

Sunday was exciting, as a completely different set of players took the court, featuring some young McMaster players and backups. The outcome was impressive though, as McMaster swept the Buckeyes 3-0.

Throughout this preseason refinement period, and even through the excitement and energy that was associated with a thrilling North American Challenge, coach Preston is firm in his emphasis that the U Sports season is where their focus lies.

“We have to do our student-athlete experience in our own way. I am really happy with what we are able to provide our students in terms of their volleyball experience,” Dave Preston Head Coach Men’s Volleyball Team “The trip to Poland, as good as it was, and the Ohio State matches, as good as they [were], won’t be near as good as what we will experience in league play,” said Preston. “The whole purpose of all of that is to just get us ready for our league play.”

Preparatory or not, Preston will have a lot of positives to take from the North American Challenge, both on an individual and team level. On a team level, the strength and composure to battle back from down a set on Saturday night is definitely a bright spot for coach Preston.

On an individual level, the stars with third-year outside hitter, Matt Passalent, and fifthyear outside hitter, Brandon Koppers. Together they com-

C/O ALISTAIR BOULBY

bined for 38 kills and four aces, a dominating performance from both of them on Saturday.

Asked before these matches about the individual talent on this team, coach Preston was excited about what both these players could deliver this year. Passalent is developing into the break-out player, with two seasons under his belt, and Koppers finds himself on the team’s leadership council, already actively working to create a positive and productive culture within the team room, according to coach Preston.

While there has been clear improvement from many individual players on this team, this offseason’s improvement was also supported by a few players’ involvement with varying levels of Canada’s national volleyball team.

Passalent, and second year libero Jordan Piereira spent time with the Junior National Team this summer. Koppers, on the other hand, found a role

with the National B Team in a starting role. The energy of the program was also buoyed by recent graduates Jayson McCarthy and Danny Demyanenko finding positions with the National Team in different capacities.

For Preston, this success outside of McMaster just cements the message he is trying to express.

“These are great statements of what we do here, how we are built, and what our day to day delivery model is,” said Preston.

“I think in the team room it really helps because the guys know that if we put in what is designed every day, those are some potential outcomes.”

Whatever the message may be, it seems to be lighting up the locker room. Coming off of Poland and a statement performance against Ohio State, energy is high even if this team looks different than last year.

“One of the beauties of collegiate sport is the cyclical

nature,” said Preston. “You only got guys for five years, whether you want them for more or not, so it’s turning over. From a team perspective it is really exciting and it is really interesting to see how, even with the core guys being back, what the different chemistry and culture is on each team.”

The culture and chemistry seem to be blending in an exciting way, and this has the men’s volleyball team excited for the year ahead, which leads directly to the U Sports National Championships in our own Burridge Gym in March of next year.

For now, the team looks ahead to the upcoming Ontario University Athletics season. The first game is Oct. 27 at home against the Ryerson Rams, and judging by this past weekend, you will want to be watching.

@theSilhouette

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HAMILTON SPECULATOR Tracing the lineage of dogs since 1934

Oc tober 26, 2017

NOTSPEC.COM

Student Activity Building feedback was disgusting Seriously, what is wrong with you?

SAINT PETER VEGAS Christian side hugs only

We have made a number of massive mistakes. We have written multiple, scathing articles related to how the union should increase communication with the university’s students and how there should be more constant feedback given.

We did not realize at the time that you are all weird, disgusting people.

Getting ideas from the public should never be done in any circumstance. This is especially true for this significant undertaking with years of construction and millions of dollars needed.

While the Faculty of Engineering had some issues with the Gerald Hatch Centre for Kids Who Can’t Read Good and Wanna to Do Other Stuff Good Too, they managed to exercise the capability to tone down their proposed three storey brewing facility to one. The rest of the space was used for The Plumbline offices, The Drain Engineering store and a statue dedicated to me.

When it comes to the Student Activity Building, however, the recommendations given from feedback are simply too absurd. A pool filled with Jell-O is not sanitary. There simply should not be a rave room next to an open concept nap room.

A strip poker and smoking den on campus is ridiculous. Your ideas are wrong, and you should feel bad.

“Look, I’m as upset about these recommendations as you are, but we gotta give the people what they want. If they want a replica giant rubber duck, then

Every person in this image represents a terrible idea you have had within the last 24 hours. Check back nightly to see how much this increases or decreases.

“If they want a replica giant rubber duck, then they’re gonna get a replica giant rubber duck.”

Joe McGreen General manager

they’re gonna get a replica giant rubber duck,” said Joe McGreen, general manager. “I believe in our students’ ideas because I

POLL: What was your favourite feedback idea?

The giant sauna room

A giant CRT for Smash Bros.

The 24/7 anime marathon area

A room exclusively reserved for Speculator readings

Harrison Ford appreciation floor

The giant office for me

The goblin containment basement

All of the above

believe in our university’s education to teach them.”

We respectfully disagree.

While it is our job to keep you informed about what is happening in the community, this has only added to the issue.

You, as readers of this paper, are worse off because you think you are more informed than you think you are. Do you really think any of us have any idea what we’re doing? I just found out about this issue like 20 minutes before writing this.

Unfortunately, that also makes us the most knowledgeable, and barely anyone bothers to call us out because they know

even less than we do somehow.

No one has any idea what is going on, and giving feedback based on that is terrible.

Mean Moblin, member of the union’s public relations team, expanded on this.

“You can make fun of me all you want, but you know this is true. I was right. The world is a mess and the world needed me to fix it. And I would have.

I could have. This world is a madhouse of mutants, terrorists, psychotics, aliens and monsters.”

In the future, Mean Moblin will make all of the union’s decisions on their behalf.

INSIDE ALL MOVIES ARE BAD EXCEPT FOR BRUCE ALMIGHTY WITH ADAM SANDLER A4 GUY FIERI IS A NATIONAL TREASURE B4 MAN KEEPS USING A “C” INSTEAD OF A “K” WHENEVER POSSIBLE AS THE PLOT THICCENS C1 WE DEMAND A SPACE IN THE BUILDING TO PUT ALL OF OUR DOGS C3 ARE BLADE AND BLADE RUNNER SET IN THE SAME UNIVERSE? D2 PER ISSUE: Me in a Halloween costume on every page

Tweets to the Editor Students don’t deserve a building. That building should belong to me instead!

[here’s something to remind you of how you used to be a decade ago]

- Jason, 34, has a lot of dumb ideas

- Spotify, pre-teen, reads your carrier pigeons

Disclaimer: The Hamilton Speculator is a work of satire and fiction and should not under any circumstances be taken seriously. I also want you to know that my fantasy football team is doing really well. If you ever need any tips or advice, just message me.