The Silhouette - September 15

OUR SPORTS SECTION PROVIDES A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE TO THE 2011 FOOTBALL MARAUDERS SEE S1 - S8

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McMASTER UNIVERSITY'S STUDENT NEWSPAPER / THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2011

The Silhouette

YOUR VOICE ON CAMPUS

Est. 1930

Global village comes to Mac

VOLUME 82, NO. 5

INSIDE THE SIL ANDY

Former PM Martin, international minds highlight conference

ANDY CHECKS IN WITH THE BANDS WHO HELPED MAKE WELCOME WEEK THE BLAST IT WAS. SEE D4 & D5

OPINIONS

RICARDO PADILLA / ASSISTANT PHOTO EDITOR

“We do not live on an island. We are in a global village that we share, and we learn from each other.” - Luke Chan, McMaster VP, International Affairs

THE VALUE OF AN UNDERGRAD IS NOT WHAT IT USED TO BE. ARE WE WASTING TIME ON EDUCATION?

SEE A7

INSIDEOUT Kacper Niburski

Assistant News Editor

A Brazilian, a Saudi, an Indian, a Canadian, an American, a Brit, a South African, a few French men and a heap of delegates from around the world walk into Hamilton’s LIUNA Station. The result: a Research and Development Conference.

Hamilton welcomed the globe’s greatest minds to the International Research and Development (R&D) conference on Sept. 12 and 13.

The first of its kind conducted by a Canadian institute, delegates from Brazil to China and everywhere in between came to LIUNA Station in Downtown Hamilton to discuss issues surrounding R&D.

The international forum focused mainly on the global participants – from industry, academia, government and the private sector – and their critical role in the dissemination of knowledge and discoveries in a volatile global economy.

There were numerous distinguished speakers in attendance at the conference, including the Right Honourable Paul Martin, former Prime Minister of Canada, Lynton “Red” Wilson, Chancellor of McMaster University and Officer of the Order of Canada, Kevin Lynch, Vice-Chair of BMO Financial Group, Mayor of Hamilton Bob Bratina and Chris Goodyear, Minister of State for Science and Technology.

It was the presence of these

people, among the many other prominent researchers, that compelled Luke Chan, McMaster’s Associate Vice-President of International Affairs, to begin the conference with a dominant, encapsulating theme.

“We do not live on an island. We are in a global village that we share, and we learn from each other,” he said.

As such, much of the conference discussed the potential of cross-sector international partnerships, and highlighted the successes of previous models in hopes of inspiring collaboration.

Chan’s “global village” is not, however, without obstacles, as many speakers outlined.

One of the prominent chal-

lenges that surfaced was the lack of what BMO’s Lynch called “innovation leadership,” particularly in Canada. Many, including Lynch, stressed that Canada is not doing much in the way of research innovation, while global competitors are.

He went so far as to say that “international competition is getting fierce, and it’s only getting fiercer. I’m afraid that Canada is not doing enough.”

Paul Martin added in an informal conversation between himself, McMaster’s President and Vice-Chancellor Patrick Deane, and “Red” Wilson that while Canada has to compete with “populations 10 to 30 times its size,” and wheth• PLEASE SEE MCMASTER, A4

JON FAIRCLOUGH SHARES HIS WILD EXPERIENCES FROM A SUMMERLONG EUROPEAN ADVENTURE. SEE C1

House party turns violent near campus Farzeen Foda

Senior News Editor

The first week of school took a turn for the worse on Sept. 9 when six people sustained non-life threatening injuries following a brawl at 69 Royal Avenue, just down Emerson Street from the McMaster campus.

It is unknown what sparked the fight.

Police arrived at the scene at approximately 4:33 a.m. on the Wednesday morning, according to Hamilton EMS, who called for the police after responding to a call

from the location. There were about 30 people present, and significant damage had been done to the interior and exterior of the house.

Those injured were “stabbed or slashed with sharp objects,” said Terri-Lynn Collings of Hamilton Police Media Relations. Collings further noted that of the six injured, four were taken to hospital and the other two were treated at the scene.

Three of the four hospitalized were taken to Hamilton General Hospital and one to St. Joseph’s Hospital.

Though one injured was a resident of the house, none of the resi-

dents have been compliant with police investigations thus far.

Collings explained that earlier in the night, police were called to Club 77 in downtown Hamilton at around 2 a.m. in response to the outbreak of numerous fights inside the club. Two 20-year old men, one from Brampton and the other from Mississauga, were arrested for mischief and causing a disturbance.

Police are still looking into any connection between the event at Club 77 and the incident on Royal Avenue, but no link has yet been established.

The Club 77 event was called ACADEMIX 101, held by Next Level Entertainment, a group that claimed through Facebook to be “McMaster’s official entertainment and talent group.” McMaster University has no affiliation with Next Level Entertainment, stressed Gord Arbeau, Director, Public and Community Relations for McMaster University. He explained that “the events that were privately organized were not official University events,” and that all claims of official affiliation with the University in relation to the events or the inci-

dent on Royal Avenue are not true. “[The University’s] primary concern and purpose during the academic year is the safety of students, so we take steps to mitigate risks for students,” said Arbeau.

About a year ago, McMaster officially banned the promotion and sale of tickets for events taking place at Hamilton’s Club 77 and the neighbouring club Dirty Dog Saloon. The decision came as a result of several discussions with the students union and members of the university’s health and safety group.

the

PRESIDENT’S PAGE Duncan Thompson VP (Finance)

Katie Ferguson VP (Administration)

Matthew Dillon-Leitch President

Alicia Ali VP (Education)

McMASTER SHINERAMA FUNDRAISING EFFORTS BRING RECORD SUCCESS Shinerama volunteers, staff and students surpass all expectations in raising money for Cystic Fibrosis research, putting McMaster on pace to reach a new all-time high.

Duncan Thompson VP (Finance) vpfinance@msu.mcmaster.ca ext. 24109

For numerous decades now, the students of McMaster University have undertaken the immense task of raising funds for Cystic Fibrosis research, by way of the Shinerama Campaign. It has become the largest post-secondary student fundraising campaign in the country, and has helped to support research by providing millions of dollars of funding each year. The program began in 1961 at what was then called Waterloo Lutheran University (now Wilfred Laurier University).

They used the program to start getting students of the University more involved in their surrounding community. In 1964, the program became unified under Cystic Fibrosis Canada and ever since all proceeds have been directed to finding a cure

for this degenerative disease. The school has since changed its name, but the principles behind “Shine Day” have remained the same.

Every year students get out into the community and garner support for the cause.

The McMaster Students Union, in conjunction with McMaster University, was one of the first universities to join with Cystic Fibrosis Canada and the Shinerama campaign in the late 1960s. Since then we have had many great achievements, but most notably over the last few years we have been ranked 3rd for fundraising out of all the schools in the country. This is obviously an achievement of which we should all feel very proud.

Some of our monetary achievements include the following fundraising milestones; in 2009 we achieved a total of just over $60,000.

Followed by a concerted effort to improve this total in 2010, McMaster efforts resulted in a total of $86,000.

This year, we have already raised just over $90,000 so far, and we expect to see a whole lot more come

in before the campaign ends at the significant contributions to the end of September. This year, we had campaign and both of their logos can over 1,100 first-year students and be found on the back of this year’s Welcome Week reps come out to Shinerama shirts. help raise money on Shine Day. The MSU’s Shinerama program It would be impossible to go on is still growing and is not showing without mentioning the impressive any signs of slowing down. Titles support we received from our bookstore participates heavily in sponsors. For the first time ever, the round-up program and with their support, it is a we have had the opportunity significant possibility that for the first time to expand the Shinerama roundever we will reach the 6 This year we had digit mark of $100,000! up program to over 1,100 firstAll of these successes our own MSU year students services. If you would not have been and Welcome possible without Mr. are shopping at Week reps come Underground Paul Mezaros, the out to help raise Shinerama Coordinator Media and money on Shine Design, Compass for 2011 here at the Day. MSU. He has laid the or Union Market, groundwork for an you’ll have the opportunity to make a small donation even more successful campaign next right at the cash register. Some off- year. As we continue to grow, we campus support was gained from just might be able to reach the #1 Moksha Yoga, during their special fundraising school in all of Canada.

Thanks to all of you who said yes community support classes during the month of August. Furthermore, to round-up, donated on Shine Day the Office of the President and and volunteered your time to help us Alumni Advancement both made in this very worthy cause.

“

MSU HEALTH AND DENTAL COVERAGE With the upcoming opt-out deadline of September 30th quickly approaching, learn more about your MSU Health and Dental coverage.

Matthew Dillon-Leitch President president@msu.mcmaster.ca ext. 23885

Your fees include the cost to participate in both the MSU Health Insurance plan and the MSU Dental Insurance plan for full-time undergraduate students, enrolled in 18 units or more. You have already paid the cost of the plans ($55 and $110 respectively), tax included in your student fees.

If you are already covered by another health or dental plan, but you are not covered 100%, you may utilize your MSU coverage and combine it with your current plan.

Look into your benefits and compare the two plans before you opt-out, as the MSU plans may provide some coverage options that are not currently available to you.

Students may opt-out of either or both of the Health and/or Dental plans if they can provide proof of comparable coverage under another health and/or dental plan, prior to FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2011.

Students may also add their spouse and/or dependent children to the Health Insurance plan at a cost of $55.00 per member or to the Dental plan at a cost of $130.00 for a single parent/one dependant or $199.00 for family/all dependents before FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2011.

For more information about what is covered, as well as opt-out and add-on info, please visit our website at: http://optout.msumcmaster.ca

The President’s Page is sponsored by the McMaster Students Union.

It is a space used to communicate with the student body about the projects, goals and agenda of the MSU Board of Directors.

www.msu.mcmaster.ca

THE SILHOUETTE • A3

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2011

Downtown Medical Facility

Mac gets long-awaited approval University keeping commitment to increase Family Medicine Residency spaces by 2013

JOY SANTIAGO / MULTIMEDIA EDITOR

Since its conception in 2007, the prospect of a health centre in downtown Hamilton has had a tumultuous journey.

Farzeen Foda

Senior News Editor

After a total of four years of toiling over the matter, the sale of the Hamilton-Wentworth District School Board (HWDSB) administrative headquarters to McMaster University was approved on Sept. 7. The sale is expected to be finalized on Oct. 3, with construction to begin in January.

Discussion pertaining to the project began in 2007, when David Braley donated

$50 million to McMaster, $10 million of which was dedicated to the development of a family medicine training centre in Hamilton’s downtown core. These funds would provide health care within a bussing distance for most Hamilton residents, according to the Hamilton Spectator.

Discussions followed for the next two years until 2009 when the plans fell through, leaving members of the McMaster community doubtful that a medical facility of this nature would ever reach the city’s downtown

district.

A project of this calibre is a complex endeavour, stressed Gord Arbeau, Director of Public and Community Relations for McMaster University, as it requires collaboration between the city, the school board and the University. “In 2009, we couldn’t get those three pieces to fit together according to the timelines,” he said.

In March 2011, the HWDSB declared its land surplus. As per provincial regulations, the school board was required to sell this property to preferred agencies, such as universities, colleges and municipalities.

McMaster was a strong candidate for the property conveniently situated in the core of downtown Hamilton, the corner of Main Street and Bay Street.

The recent approval of the site for McMaster came at just the right time. The University has made a commitment to the Ontario government to provide additional spaces for Family Medicine Residents by 2013. As per the current timeframe, construction of the building will begin in January 2012.

The expansion of McMaster into this space would undoubtedly benefit the city, the University and the school board. “The city of Hamilton has been clear that one of its priorities is to have a reinvigorated and revitalized downtown,” said Arbeau, adding that the construction of the facility is expected to draw other businesses to the surrounding area which would certainly help the city reach its goal.

Further, it was noted by Judith Bishop, Chair of the HWDSB, in an interview with the Hamilton Spectator, that the current headquarters for the school board is in dire need for renovations, which would cost an estimated $55 million. With the sale of the current site to McMaster, the school board will be relocating to Mohawk Road East and Upper Wentworth Street, a move that would cost $31.6 million; an amount that will be covered by the sale to McMaster as well as savings in operating costs.

The establishment of the medical centre, while providing the additional space for the Family Medicine Residents, will allow the University to expand its presence in downtown Hamilton, something McMaster continuously strives to accomplish, as noted by Arbeau.

The downtown Family Medicine Facility will share the building with the city’s Public Health clinics, which already work very closely with the University.

The original plan for the building involved a complete consolidation of all of the city’s public health centres, but the cost of consolidating all of the cities public health facilities into one building proved to be rather

unfeasible.

Discussions on the part of the city concluded that certain public health clinics would be moved to the new site, explained Arbeau.

The city has invested $20 million into the development of the new facility and has been an excellent partner in the process, he added.

The plan has met with some opposition, however. City residents have raised concerns about the historic importance of the HWDSB administrative building, which was built in 1967.

“The building doesn’t have any formal historic distinction,” said Arbeau, however, “the University, as part of its offer, will be conducting an inventory of the building to identify any kind of community or historic component.” Once the inventory is complete, these particular components will be reflected in the new building.

“We are respectful of the significance of the building to the community,” said Arbeau, noting that a fundamental challenge is that the functionality of the current building and the Family Medicine Facility are very unique.

Preserving the current building would be impractical as the current administrative space in the building would not be conducive to the needs of a medical facility, which will require space for labs and clinics rather than offices. Nevertheless, the University intends to do what it can to preserve the historic integrity of the original site.

When complete in 2013, the building is expected to see 54,000 patient visits a year, serving the thousands of Hamilton residents currently without a family doctor, while creating an estimated 450 news jobs.

The $80-million, 152,000 sq. ft. facility will accommodate approximately 4,000 undergraduate, graduate and continuing education students. “It will really be a centre downtown for student learning, research and patient care,” said Arbeau.

The centre will house the McMaster Department of Family Medicine and the Shelter Health Network, which focuses on health care for the homeless community, as well as the Women’s Maternity Clinic, which provides medical attention for women at high risk during pregnancy. It will also provide facilities for research initiatives and continuing education programs run by the Faculty of Health Sciences.

Despite controversy, the long-awaited development of the downtown family medicine facility is finally underway, paving a promising path for the City of Hamilton, the HWDSB and McMaster University.

“It is a really great example of the city, the school board and the University working together to bring a common vision and purpose to fruition,” said Arbeau.

SILHOUETTE FILE PHOTO

The HWDSB headquarters will be replaced by a Family Medicine Facility.

A4 • THE SILHOUETTE

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2011

Research & Development Forum

Student Fellowship

McMaster incites collaboration worldwide

Scholarship opens doors for Canadians Dina Fanara

Assistant News Editor

TYLER HAYWARD / SENIOR PHOTO EDITOR

Panelists in attendance discussing the “Big Picture,” a catalogue of the broader aims of R&D • CONT’D FROM A1 -er this is done by what he called “poaching or stealing,” Canada must attract worldwide talent.

“It is an absolute necessity,” Martin said.

Deane further catalogued the challenges surrounding R&D. He stressed that, “all are challenged to be more competitive, to produce more with less, to innovate and to add value. Investment in research, development, and knowledge transfer is critical to this process.

In short, it requires a new way of thinking.”

A similar sentiment was echoed by many of the delegates.

Mo Elbestawi, Vice-President, Research and International Affairs, emphasized the importance of the

role of universities. “At the time when the world is facing many economic trials, the role of universities has never been more critical. We believe they hold the many solutions.”

With respect to what these “solutions” may be, or how the “new way of thinking” paradigm should look, the conference was meant to act as a catalyst to answer such fundamental questions. Divided into nine sessions, each with a speaker, a panel discussion, and a question and answer section, many particular collaboration models were analyzed and discussed in great detail.

Beginning with the ‘Big Picture” – a discussion focused on the broader issues concerning R&D collaboration – and ending with two sections of the role of the private sector – sessions highlighting

business interests and hallmarks of successful business ventures from R&D, many speakers emphasized the need for what Deane called, “the inherent difference between collaboration and competition,” as the model for R&D. While no speaker directly opposed competition, and all agreed that competition was necessary for cutting edge innovation, there was an overall consensus that only through collaboration, not competition, will the challenges of a “global village” – and the consequent problems that accompany it on the R&D front – find a solution.

Many of the “solutions” were not defined nationally. Instead, they were meant to transcend borders in the global market.

Arun Chockalingam, Direc-

On Sep. 14, 3M Canada, in partnership with the Society for Teaching and Learning in Higher Education (STLHE), unveiled the “3M National Student Fellowship”.

The program is aimed at providing post-secondary students in Canada with more opportunities to gain experience that will push them forward in the workforce postgraduation.

The announcement was made on campus in Council Chambers (GH 111) before McMaster University administration, which included Dr. Phil Wood, Dean of Students, and Ilene Busch-Vishniac, Provost and Vice-President Academic, as well as 3M executives and two members of the McMaster Students Union Board of Directors.

McMaster University’s President and Vice-Chancellor, Patrick Deane, hosted the event.

Speeches were made by two students from McMaster’s Integrated Science program as well as executive members of 3M and STLHE. Students in full-time post-secondary education programs from all across Canada will be considered for this award. The recipients will receive $5,000 to be spent at their discretion, and will be invited to attend the STLHE annual conference with the Program Coordinator.

There, they will be given the opportunity to discuss, with other award recipients, matters relevant to them. The students will collaborate and develop an initiative to enhance the quality of teaching and learning experiences at the post-secondary level.

According to Paul Davidson, one of the speakers from the unveiling announcement, “the number of full-time undergraduate students

tor of the Office of Global Health, noted, “if innovation is global, so too should be the solution.” Subahis Chaudhuri, Dean of International Relations of India’s Institute of Technology in Bombay, added, “research is a currency; not an Indian rupee, not a Canadian dollar, but a growth in human capital through education.”

With these statements being echoed, the theme resonated throughout the conference. In closing, Michael Bowman, Chairman of the Board and CEO of Delaware Technology Park Inc., said, “we live in a world where the engine is the human mind.”

While many R&D issues remain unsolved, the forum may very well have been the beginning of a new fuel for that engine.

• PLEASE SEE 3M, A5

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THE SILHOUETTE • A5

Honourary Distinction

Mac alumnus recognized Former MSU President elected as fellow to Royal Society of Canada the MSU. “I think that my student activism prepared me well for the kind of critical orientation one McMaster Alumni’s list of high-achievers needs to do well in the academic world,” said proudly welcomes a new addition. Former Knight.

McMaster Students Union (MSU) President During his time at McMaster Knight Andy Knight was elected a Fellow of the studied Arts, and went on to pursue a masters degree at Dalhousie University in 1986 and Royal Society of Canada.

Knight was floored upon being elected to then a doctorate degree at York University in one of Canada’s oldest and highly esteemed 1995.

Encouraged by his nomacademic institutions. ination, Knight was careful Currently a professor at to note that he will continue the University of Alberta, his ...I did not take on his research and that this outstanding achievements were commemorated through my research projects milestone in his career is but his recognized brilliance in in order to receive a stepping-stone for future prospects. academia, upon which he rean award. I have “Being a Fellow of the ceived his August award.

The Fellows of the Royal done so because Royal Society of Canada proSociety of Canada are nomI think that what I pels me to do more of what I have been doing. Why? Beinated and elected by their peers based on scholarly, sci- am researching can cause I did not take on my entific and artistic achievehelp make a differ- research projects in order to receive an award. I have done ment. ence...” so because I think that what Having served on the I am researching can help MSU Board of Directors in 1981 as Vice-President, then again the fol- to make a difference in the lives of people lowing year as President, Knight expressed around the globe,” explained Knight, stressthat his experience at McMaster had a signifi- ing his passion for work was largely the contributor which gained him this level of recogcant contribution to his election. “[My time at McMaster] provided me nition. with the opportunity to develop the leadership Having all praises for his experience at and entrepreneurial skills that are necessary if McMaster, Knight communicated his heartione is to be at the forefront of any endeavour, est salutations and regards for his alma matter, including being a academic leader and some- McMaster’s, community. one who is at the cutting edge of research in “I will forever be thankful to the McMaster Community – administrators, faculty, one’s field.”

Having worked closely with the student sessionals, students, staff – for giving me body and administration at McMaster, Knight the foundation upon which I have been able had overseen the multi-faceted activities and to build a successful academic career so far. businesses of the MSU. He had a wide-ran- I owe a lot to this institution and the people ging role while managing various aspects of within it,” conlcuded Knight.

Alizeh Khan The Silhouette

Sisterhood , Strength, Solidarity

Thirty years of walking do but I was aware that it was a pretty risky thing because we were going to be taking to the streets.

McMaster students, faculty, and residents of People don’t always like you standing the neighbouring community are preparing to up and telling them things they don’t want march on Sept. 15, for the 30th annual Take to hear. That’s what TBTN is about – saying ‘This happens here. What the heck are you Back the Night (TBTN) walk.

The first TBTN in North America took gonna do about it?’,” said Galvin. place in Philadelphia in 1975. According to “I remember personally feeling a lot the TBTN Foundation website, “Citizens of of fear because we were heckled,” noted Philadelphia rallied together after the murder Warnke. “There were men yelling things at of young microbiologist, Susan Alexander us. The community as a whole did not neSpeeth, who was stabbed by a stranger a cessarily appreciate what we were doing. It never occurred to me that block from her home while there would be people who walking alone.”

It was something wouldn’t think that this was When TBTN reached the a great idea.” international stage, it was the that we could Helen Manning, a TBTN first time that many commundo to make march participant, rememities had taken to the streets a statement. bered hearing from a friend, to be vocal about the rampant “‘Aren’t you scared?’, and violence against women.

To make a I said ‘no’. She said ‘There Krista Warnke, a former point. To be could be a sniper up on one volunteer for the Rape Crisis in people’s of those buildings.’ And Centre (now a Hamilton group she was right. I said ‘If named SACHA) said, “I refaces about there is. Here I am.’ That’s member there being generally violence.” how afraid women were to a lot of excitement because speak out. Something could there was recognition that in happen to us even while some ways it was long overdoing a march.” due.

“Women were feeling all of these differ- Throughout the years that she has been ent things about violence against women and participating in the march, Manning has also yet there wasn’t a forum for us to express our- seen significant changes. “It’s not so much like that anymore. One of the big things that selves.”

Nairn Galvin, one of the founders of the TBTN has done in Hamilton is educating Centre, said that “it was something that we people.” could do to make a statement. To make a Manning still remembers all the women point. To be in people’s faces about violence.” that unable to attend the march. “I always She further expressed her view about how think of my sister. She never went to the conversation concerning sexual violence has march. evolved over time. “At that time you never She was afraid to go because of her huseven saw the word ‘rape’ in the paper. They band, and I always felt when I marched I wouldn’t print the word. People were still would be marching for her too.”

According to Warnke, “TBTN gives saying, ‘This doesn’t happen’.”

Safety during the march was a primary women the outlet that we just don’t get anyconcern for the organizers of the first TBTN. where else - especially about issues about “This was something we really wanted to violence against women.”

Hannah Markham The Sihouette

3M and STLHE establish award • CONT’D FROM A4 has more than doubled since 1980.” He added that in the past 15 years, Canada has experienced a 57 per cent increase in enrollment in post-secondary facilities.

It is such statistics that have driven 3M and STLHE to create the award and opportunity for post-secondary students to have a direct impact on the way their fellow students are taught in colleges and universities all over

the country.

The first group of students to be chosen for this award are to submit their application

by Jan. 7, 2012, and the recipients will be announced at the 2012 3M conference in Montreal.

Those eligible must meet three criteria: be a college or university student in Canada, not be in their final year of study and must have completed at least one semester as a fulltime student.

A6 • THE SILHOUETTE

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2011

EDITORIAL

editor’s extension: 22052 letters: thesil@thesil.ca

Looking ahead to the big October snooze button Voter apathy is bad. This much we know.

After last May’s federal election, when voter turnout was among the worst in history, you couldn’t pick up a single newspaper without some well-written diatribe lamenting the state of students’ interest in political affairs.

This fall, as the Oct. 6 Ontario election approaches, we’ll no doubt be hearing those same overtones again.

The same voices that said we failed our civic duty last spring will be encouraging us to get out to the polls again.

“Do it for our future!” they’ll say enthusiastically. “Stop McGuinty/Hudak/Horwath/other hated political leader!” they’ll yell with passion.

There will be clever slogans like ‘Poll Out and Vote’ and cutting-edge graphic design on voting posters all over campus. The encouragement to cast your ballot will be totally in your face this fall.

And you know what? Those voices are right. Everyone should have a say in our democracy and everyone should embrace this privilege we have.

To say otherwise is pretty much indefensible. With the number of elections we’ve had at all three levels of government over the past four years (and the predictably poor turnout that has come along with them), the attack on voter apathy has been played out in every publication, campaign and broadcast there is. We’ve basically had a war on voter apathy for four years.

We’ll most certainly hear these voices again this fall. But as we approach Oct. 6, one has to wonder if they’ll make any kind of impact this time around.

As the election approaches, and as the topic of conversation slowly turns in its direction, people are going to realize that organizing support for this election is going to be an arduous task.

The fact that many Ontarians will simply say they’re ‘electioned out’ notwithstanding, many voters are just going to look at this election like a blowout sale on near-expired anchovies, twitch their noses and move on.

It’s not that an election should ever be uninteresting. But this one is particularly – perhaps historically – bad for the turn-off-voter factor.

Consider the following: the other day, yours truly was discussing the election with a less politically engaged companion. In response to a harmless comment about the campaigns getting underway, the friend blurted out “Dalton McGuinty’s a punk.”

While his comment isn’t necessarily something the average voter would say, it made me wonder for a moment: What is going to motivate people to vote in this election when one of the only things we can say with certainty about it is that it’s being contested by some pretty unpopular people.

It’s painfully obvious that the supporters of Dalton McGuinty (the guy, not his party) are basically an endangered species. But it’s not exactly like people lining up to sing the praises of PC leader Tim Hudak or NDP leader Andrea Horwath either.

McGuinty is an all too familiar presence that seems more like a root canal than inspiring public figure; Hudak is a talking points-spouting robot who offended much of Ontario’s diverse population with his “foreigners” comment last week; Horwath, despite her best efforts, is struggling to differentiate herself and her party from the extreme highs and lows the NDP brand has encountered in 2011.

This isn’t to say that the discourse and campaigns have been too negative. That’s a little too simplistic. It’s more that widespread voter apathy plus an unappealing lineup of party platforms and leaders equals a bleak landscape for this election.

I think back to my McGuinty-hating friend. What do you say to that? What do you do to talk about the election without sounding like either a McGuinty apologist or a blatant cheerleader of another party?

Part of fighting voter apathy is getting people to take an interest in politics and start forming their own opinions. But with the way this election is shaping up it’s hard to take up the task while seeming like a legitimate source on the topic.

High levels of voter apathy are never going to work. It skews political representation and infuriates those who do their civic duty. But as the election campaigns roll along, it looks like those who decline to pull their election weight are going to be given another reason to stay home on election night.

The Silhouette McMaster University’s Student Newspaper

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to union market. when coffee is your only dietary intake, it helps that it’s free and good.

to george w. bush. you’re still here?

to the sil’s polish invasion.

to sport hall as a store. i want my badminton time back!

to the sweet mac football guide in sports. to that wicked infographic in the spec this week. to james street. to 4 a.m deadlines. to bautista bombs. pow. to the awesome new staff. well, most of you. to shaq’s oreos. oh, i’ll twist it alright. to re-discovered cigarettes in the sil office.

PLUS stay tuned in the coming weeks for our new and improved website to serve all of your sil-ly needs.

to van engen’s spectator spotlight all the way from kabul.

Actually, we sold the URL to raise funds for our friends in a Dutch post-hardcore metal band.

to hyphenation, the new hispter punctuation.

Speel altijd luide muziek, mijn vriend!!!

AND ALSO...

Tune in to the Sil’s radio show every Thursday at 1 p.m. on CFMU, 93.3 on your dial, cfmu.msumcmaster.ca on the web.

to fruit flies liking bananas.

did we upset you this week? are we blantantly offensive and unworthy of print? is this paper only good for making into a pirate hat?

to joy’s prolific drawing abilities. seriously, scroll through the paper.

let us know. send us a letter and we’ll publish it right here on the editorial page.

to volunteering. seriously, we won’t harass you!

just don’t be too mean to us. thesil@thesil.ca

to toad.

to homework. you mean free concerts and debauchery aren’t every week? to textbooks. you still suck. to hard 4 a.m. deadlines decreasing the chances of a visit from space donut guy to utilities money. you spelled b-e-e-r wrong. to trying to find a bar after supercrawl. to no other sports than football this week. Sorry, we’ll be back next week there, sportos. to no cab vouchers. seriously. to fruit fly colonization. to computers. the bane of your existence no matter who you are or where you’re from. to the tiger woods app coming with a philanderer mode. to bobbleheads.

THE SILHOUETTE • A7

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2011

OPINIONS

production office extension: 27117 opinions@thesil.ca

The digital divide

The internet’s impending split personality Andrew Terefenko

Opinions Editor

I think it is time to talk about the internet – or, as you know it, the awesome connective technology that we all fell in love with once we learned it could help us get free music and stalk people from our past from the comfort of our wellfurnished rooms.

Though I am as guilty of this as anyone else, we unfortunately take it for granted, and there are some people out there who want to take advantage of that fact.

As of now, internet service providers are trying to make us pay more for it, governmental bodies around the globe are trying to restrict the ways in which we use it and entrepreneurial minds worldwide are busy concocting various methods of making money with it.

Then there is us. I would be lying most grievously if I claimed any less than a dozen hours a week spent on messenger clients and flash games.

Even if we are not using the internet to its full potential, it is moving on without us, evolving and adapting to a society that has never before been quite so dependant on it.

We r e you aware t h a t

there are plans en route to establish speech, I sincerely doubt they a second, more secure internet? A would have given it to us in the series of connections completely first place, at least not without cut off from the ones we use, that severe restrictions. I imagine a fair only a handful of accountable, number of the freedoms we enjoy registered people will have access today would be quite different had to? we known an internet-like network On that same track, there are would one day appear. people who want to do the oppos- In Sweden there is a politite, and create a less restricted in- ical party gaining momentum, ternet, untouchable by authorities the Swedish Pirate Party, almost and available to all who want an entirely centred around proanonymous plattecting the privacy form with which of internet users This is the point around the world. to speak out.

So what does promoting the where we decide It’s this mean for us? preparation for the It means that it whether the inter- unavoidable ‘inwill create a divide formation society’ net is protected event horizon we where the current internet has creare heading into. by law. ated a union. Two Canada has a sides entrenched pirate party too, in a bitter digital though for less nocold war, each fotorious. I think it cused on undermining the efforts is a step in the right direction for of the other. What remains will be Canadians, who live in a country the silent protesters who remain where copyright law is only now on the “middle internet”, who just becoming a major political issue. want to browse Facebook but will In the dawn of the new milnonetheless be forced to choose lennium, a mere five percent of sides. the world population had internet It comes down to anonymity access. In the present day, that versus accountability. Can a major number has grown to an astoundworld power be content allowing ing third of the world. Thanks to its inner machinations to be ex- a recent UN ruling, disconnecting posed without any way of silen- the public from the internet is now cing the whistleblower? illegal as they have proclaimed it Had our forefathers real- a basic human right. Does that not ized the global extent to which mean every effort should be made we would use our to protect the state of the infreedom of ternet?

An unpopular vote we need to cast Ryan Mallough Silhouette Staff

He said it himself: he’s not the most popular guy in the country.

Polls has proved it. He has done little to stem tuition increases in Ontario universities, which boast the one of the largest percentage increases in the nation over the past five years. He is the man responsible for creating the 13 per cent harmonized sales tax (HST).

But on Oct. 6, he will be getting my vote.

There’s a lot to like about the work his Liberal government has accomplished. It has created jobs and decreased hospital wait times; it has helped steer Ontario out of the recession; its full-day kindergarten has been a success and Ontario’s education system is globally lauded. While those are all things to consider, they’re not the reason I’m voting McGuinty in October.

There’s also a lot to dislike about the other contenders.

Conservative leader Tim Hudak, whose party began the summer up 11 points in the polls and find themselves 4 points behind as of Monday, has run a disastrous campaign, allowing his message to be derailed by an unclear position on abortion, calling new Ontarians “foreign workers” and simply being crushed by an aggressive Liberal campaign that overshadows his own negative commercials aiming to pin McGuinty as “the tax man”.

The Ontario NDP suffered a massive blow to their campaign with the loss of Jack Layton, whose wave they had hoped to ride.

Although the ghost of the ‘Rae Days’ are still alive and well in Ontario – invoking that spectre was a large reason behind the Conservative successes in the federal election – it’s doubtful that even Layton could have led the Ontario NDP to any type of victory.

But the opposition is not the reason I’m voting McGuinty come October.

In 2014, the Canadian Health Transfer (CHT) – the primary source of federal monetary support for provincially administered healthcare – will need to be renegotiated. For Ontario, the most populous province in Canada, these negotiations will be critical to maintaining a functional healthcare system for an Ontario population that is ageing and healthcare costs that are rising during a time of economic hardship.

• PLEASE SEE DALTON, A8

This has been even further exacerbated by the popularization of the smartphone, a tool that allows people to connect to the internet away from the archaic chains of their wall outlet. Now we can connect with anyone, from anywhere, and it is a frightening prospect to think that the next likely step for our race is a backwards one.

This is the point where we decide whether the internet is protected by law. If we do not take steps to preserve it, then it will inevitably cease to be what it is today.

The powers that be are pushing for something they can control, and those beneath that power are vying for a way to gain some control in their already heavily governed lives.

The internet is the digital battlefield in which the future of the modern world will be decided, and it’s also the prize for whoever emerges when the dust settles.

I just hope it doesn’t get banged up in the process.

Too cool for school Rob Hardy

The Silhouette

It’s September again. Welcome Week has now passed, and the school year has officially begun.

For those of you who have always looked forward to going back to school – this time of year when the weather cools but it’s still sunny, the football team plays its first game and you start writing in your brand new notebook – this might very well be your favourite time of year. For others, not so much.

Whatever your reasons are for coming back for another year, they all in some way fall under the vague heading of “getting an education”.

But what does that really mean these days?

I will be honest with you. If you are reading this article to get some kind of definitive answer on the subject then you will probably be disappointed (unless you are a fan of Plato’s dialogues, which raise more questions than answers, ultimately forcing you to draw your own conclusions). Interviewing some professors on the matter provided a lot of food for thought, but left me even more confused on what to say about what amounts to an important part of our academic lives.

What is the worth of education in the modern world? Maybe we First off, one has to define edu- are due for a long hard look into unconventional learning methods. cation, at least in context. Are we educated if we, like Luke Perry’s cause our resume says we have somehow completed a character in 90210, don’t graduate college, yet read exis- Master’s degree in a subject that didn’t exist fifty years tential Dostoyevsky novels in our spare time in between ago, even though we’ve never written a single essay, we surfing on weekend trips to Baja? Or are we educated be• PLEASE SEE EDUCATION, A8 WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

[This Week in Opinions] Feedback Flashback

Attention Please

Mad for McGuinty

See what your peers thought of McMaster grub 43 years ago in a special edition of Feedback.

Find out the three signs you should look out for when spotting distracted conversational partners.

Dalton McGuinty is not the politician we want, but the politician we need to make real changes in Canada.

Pg. A10

Pg. A9

Pg. A8

A8 • THE SILHOUETTE

THURSDAY, SETPEMBER 15, 2011

Dalton is our man Education impossible

McGuinty may face serious unpopularity, but he is the right person to represent Ontarians • CONT’D FROM A7 Currently, Ottawa pays for about 20 per cent of healthcare and provinces will see a 6 per cent increase until 2014. However, if the federal government doesn’t allow for an increase in payments when the current accord expires – and there’s every indication that they’re looking to cut transfer payments – Ontario won’t be able to pay for its system without significantly raising taxes or making large cuts to other programs.

Consider this: Who do you want representing Ontario across from the Harper Government at the negotiation table?

The answer is a provincial Liberal government. The answer is Dalton McGuinty.

There is no one better to serve Ontario at that table. McGuinty is a thorn in the Conservative government’s side and will fight to get everything he can for the province.

The talks will be the defining negotiations for Ontario’s health care system as the baby boomers move into retirement. His presence is a win for health care recipients, a win for our generation against the future bulk of the taxpaying population and a win for Ontario.

He’s not very popular, but Dalton McGuinty is damn good at his job, and on Oct. 6 he’s getting my vote.

WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

Dalton Mcguinty has done more for Ontario than people give him credit for, and if Canadians want some tangible progress in the next few years then they should elect him this October.

• CONT’D FROM A7 never wanted to and MENSA won’t be calling us anytime soon?

And how educated are we, relative to the average person, when bachelor degrees have lost their exclusivity and are now commonplace on many resumes? Simply put, does a post-secondary credential (or lack of one) mean the same thing that it used to?

Technologies and methods in education have made great progress. We are getting to the point where students today could not even begin to imagine the hassle of dropping and adding courses by filling out a form every single time and waiting for the changes to be updated manually, or to typing out long essays on a typewriter as the night wears on and realize you have run out of white-out. (How about retyping whole pages because there are just too many mistakes to edit?)

In some ways, things are easier today.

Generally speaking, university is quite a laidback affair so long as you respect a few key rules and protocols. But as one professors I spoke to asserted, maybe things are getting easier in some ways but not in others.

Students today face mounting financial pressures and the prospect of more burdensome job searches, which leave little time left over for really enjoying the moment without worrying about your constant to-do list.

The answers, in the end, are (you guessed

it) ultimately for you to decide. Having to make decisions about your life while the clock keeps ticking, and without the benefit of hindsight, is what sucks about being a human. You can weigh the pros and cons but in the end you have to make choices.

Some of us may have decided on our priorities long ago and have planned out our academic careers with a set goal in mind, leaving little room for pauses of exploration at the risk of reasonable security for the future. Others embrace the full power of the present moment and squeeze it for all it’s worth, knowing that perhaps their goals for after graduation are impossible to predict when one learns and discovers without an agenda.

Does education have its own inherent worth, or is it merely for the endgame; a long, onerous struggle to something better?

These are but two paths at two extremes, and it’s up to you to declare where on the spectrum you sit.

With the world changing as fast as it is, you can be pretty sure that you won’t always find validation for your experiences. Sometimes, this may greatly surprise you. That’s why your decision to pursue a higher education, however you will, is something you need to feel is right for you, and no one else.

Therein lies the path to an undeniable confidence, which is just one of the many perks of achieving a degree, along with a good old-fashioned education.

THE SILHOUETTE • A9

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2011

Three determinants of distraction The amount of conversation people catch is less than you think

Stephanie Wan The Silhouette

Perhaps it’s the hysteria of meeting new faces at Welcome Week. Or maybe it’s my, “Hi, my name is Stephanie, I’m from Toronto” script.

Either way, I’ve come to an unfortunate conclusion: I’m downright boring.

No, this isn’t supposed to conjure even the slightest bit of pathos. In between the pelvic-thrusts, the fist-pumps and physically awkward ice-breakers of Welcome Week, this structured mingling has taught me the top three signs that some people just don’t care about what you’re saying.

I caught the first glimpses of sign number one at dinner the other day, just after telling what I thought was an incredibly humorous story about the time I forgot I had a mole on my left arm and proceeded to scream because I thought it was a fly. Building with increasing enthusiasm, “SO THEN, I LIKE, SCREAMED – BECAUSE, WELL BECAUSE – I THOUGHT IT WAS A FLY!” Like a child longing for approval from his neighbourhood friends, I glanced up waiting for an uproar of laughter and epic high-fiving. Instead, I get two words: “That’s funny.” No smile, no laugh, just the slurping of spaghetti.

You know what else is funny? When people laugh or smile at other people’s jokes.

Not only are you telling me that you don’t have a sense of humour, but that you also don’t even care enough to hide the fact that you’re blatantly lying to me. Thank you for officially blacklisting my name on the list of funny people. It’s just me and Dane Cook now isn’t it?

The worst part about it is when these so called “listeners” think that you haven’t caught onto their clever charade. And this brings us to sign number two: Yes Bobby, I can see you when you’re trying pick all the lint off your clothes. And yes, I can also see you texting away at your Blackberry. I can

never understand people who say they can text and listen to a conversation at the same time. It’s a virtually an impossible task to hold two verbal conversations at once, let alone one that requires typing letters on halfcentimetre keys.

Sign number three: midway through an anecdote, they decide that it’s the best time to curiously ask whether you got your necklace from Forever 21. Has listening really become

a lost art? My teacher used to tell me, “You have two ears and one mouth. Use them in that ratio.” I don’t expect everyone to listen completely to what I’m saying all the time, but when I feel like the conversation has moved beyond the “I like food. Oh yeah, you like food too?” phase and has delved deeper into less superficial topics, asking about my choice of accessories right during the climax of a personal story pretty much brings us

back to phase one.

I know I may be overreacting, as it was Welcome Week. Do you really expect them to listen to your life story, chuckle at the funny parts, then hold hands and braid your hair?

No. That’s not my intention. But next time you’re tempted to pick lint off those freshly laundered jogging pants or text during a conversation, remember: we’re watching. And we know that you’re not listening.

TYLER HAYWARD / SENIOR PHOTO EDITOR

A sure sign that someone is not paying attention to you is the occupation of their fingers: idle fingers are more attentive!

Have an opinion simmering in your gut? Got beef with the lunch lady? Did you stub your toe and want to rant about stairs?

Send your thoughts to opinions@thesil.ca or come to our weekly meetings and stop taking out your rage on innocent pillows.

We’re dead serious.

You should write for opinions.

opinions@thesil.ca

?

A10 • THE SILHOUETTE

Rosalie Byrnes, Health Sciences

Feedback

“They’re insane.

Bagged lunches aren’t as good but they’re cheaper..”

Kelsey Murray.

Psychology Neuro-Sci

“I just feel like they are always going up, with fewer options.”

Michael Multam, Third Year B.HSc

“The waffle situation is nuts.You can’t even put your own toppings on them.”

Senyo Agbeyaka, Honours Psychology

Compiled by Andrew Terefenko and Jon Fairclough

“I don’t eat here much, but the prices at DeGroote’s are high.”

Matthew Connolly, MBA

Flashback

“Really really way too high. Paying by weight at the salad bar is stupid.”

Think you know better than students of the past?

Check out this gem from the Silhouette archives.

Nov 1, 1968

How do you feel about food prices at McMaster?

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2011

A12 • THE SILHOUETTE

SpeculatoR The Hamilton

Thursday, September 15, 2011

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2011

INSIDE THE SPECULATOR BREAKING NEWS: there is nothing in this Speculator to do with pereniums. Maybe.

Marking our territory since 1930 .

F

A farewell to arms, How the Speculator legs, and cock jokes. gets to your door Buck Horowitz is dead.

Well he’s not really dead, but he’s dead to this publication. After a 3-­‐year escapade of sex, lies, and perversion Horowitz, I’m told, is teaming up with Solomon Ostero for a Canada-­‐wide “necrophilia-­‐awareness” campaign. Ostero, as you may remember, unsuccessfully ran for mayor of Hamilton on the ‘facist-­‐necrophiliac’ ticket, MSU president (same ticket), as well as lobbied for the private use of morgues after hours. Only the morgue lobbying passed and, well, we all remember how that turned out (see childrens hospital article, June 2010).

We’re sad to see him go, we really are. Bucky covered a wide-­‐range of topics that none of our reporters would even come close to, even interviewing the devil on more than one occasion at the gates of hell – which is conveniently in the tea-­‐room of Wallingford Hall.

And if you don’t remember Buck Horowitz -­‐ if you’re a new reader to the Speculator this year – count your blessings: the man was truly filthy. The guy you wished you didn’t sit beside on the bus. The guy who slows down at traffic accidents, and bar mitzvah’s.

His absence is bittersweet. Very few ever saw his soft side, even fewer saw his backside. Without Buck, we wouldn’t have Ping Sue, our in-­‐house massage specialist and circus contortionist, as well as Paulie-­‐Biggs: our bookie.

This years Speculator will be just as filthy, just as heartless, and just as cruel – this is true – but we wanted to say goodbye to a colleague before we gave our hello’s.

Farewell Bucky, we hardly knew ye and your backside.

-­‐ Kingsley Morris and Bugs Vindaloo

... AND IN UNRELATED NEWS:

Many have asked how the FUCK we get away with this section. Others ask how on EARTH some people ONLY read The Speculator and nothing else (yea, we’ve seen you bums outside of U.M.) but we think it’s time we shed a little secret: how the SHIT is the paper made?

Where does it come from?

Well, friends, this ones for you: the 7-step process of Speculator production: Step 1: The Take Troubled kids from Hamilton’s East-End remove patios and decking from upscale Ancaster homes. They’re insured, who cares.

Step 2: The Breakdown Contraband wood is dipped into Hamilton harbour and quickly melts into a pulp-like state. The pulp is flattened, beaten by wooden planks, and made into newsprint by James Street artisans.

Step 3: Meanwhile, The Con 1st years and insecure grad students are recruited at Clubs-fest, promised respect and anonimity, and are all given a bobble-head toy of Patrick Deane. Incentives... gets them every time.

Step 4: The Carry Silhouette writers and volunteers are sealed into an air-tight office (much like the election of a new pope) and are not allowed to releive their bladders and colons until an issue is produced. Photographers are stuck with limited props and subjects, normally leading to repetitive content - week in, week out.

Step 5: The News In the case that paper has no relevant news to report (which is the case 7 times out of 10), interns are forced to commit petty crimes and acts of vandalism until content is to the Senior-Editors satisfaction.

COME BACK. OMNI 4 IS NOT THE SAME. YOU ALWAYS LOOKED SO COMFORTABLE.

Step 6: The Press Extra-large Yukon Gold potatoes (broad-sheet sized) are carved with print by small, normally abducted, children. These carved potatoes (just like arts and crafts) are dipped into a tub of ink and pressed on Ancaster-grade-patio-newsprint.

Step 7: The Prestige After 6 days of constant potato-pressing, the necessary 10,000 copies of the Speculator are ready to be distributed by hand-selected Segway-couriers.

AND THATS OUR SECRET It’s all been cleared by the MSU. Supplementary fees DO go somewhere afterall.

“What Did You Learn This Week, Timmy?”

“I got three words for ya, bub.

Nineteen-ninety four.”

Disclaimer: Stories printed in The Hamilton Speculator are fact. Any resemblance to persons real or dead is likely intentional and done out of spite. Opinions expressed are those of The Speculator and if you disagree with them you are wrong. And stupid. Possibly ugly as well.

Thursday, September 15, 2011

www.thesil.ca

@SilSports

SILSPORTS

YOUR SOURCE FOR MCMASTER MARAUDERS SCORES, STORIES, UPDATES AND ANALYSIS

JEFF TAM / SILHOUETTE STAFF

ROAD TO THE YATES THE SILHOUETTE’S COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE TO THE 2011 MCMASTER MARAUDERS FOOTBALL SEASON.

S2 • THE SILHOUETTE

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2011

Looking back to move forward Victor Pek

The Silhouette

With a new season and a new catchphrase to go along with it, the McMaster Marauders are looking to ‘leave no doubt’ in 2011.

That mantra may have stemmed from a formidable 2010 campaign which saw a number of injuries to key players, but standout performances from reserve players in their place.

Despite an overwhelming amount of key veterans missing time last season, the maroon and grey finished with a 6-2 regular season record, and plenty of confidence in their roster depth for the future.

McMaster entered 2010 as a Yates Cup favourite, and legitimized their contention by defeating two significant opponents in the season’s opening weeks. The Marauders kicked the year off by overcoming the defending national champions, Queen’s, and followed with come-from-behind victory over rival Laurier the following week.

Morale in the maroon locker room was high until week three, when the group travelled to London to take on the Western Mustangs.

Mac left the contest with their first loss of the campaign (a 50-19 blowout), in addition to a long list of injuries that included starting wide receivers Mike DiCroce, Kevin D’Hollander, and Jarred Jones. A follow up loss to Ottawa dropped the injuryplagued Marauders’ record to .500, and cast doubt on their title hopes.

Luckily for the maroon and grey, their upcoming schedule offered an opportunity to climb back into the win column.

In weeks five and six, the team was pitted against the Windsor Lancers and York Lions, respectively.

Both opponents were struggling in 2010, and McMaster capitalized on the occasion by scoring a combined total of 103 points in the two contests, while only allowing nine.

The mid-season wins were vital in the Marauders’ pursuit of a postseason berth, and demonstrated that they can compete at a high level despite the absence of many of their experienced players. However, week seven once again put McMaster up against another contending squad: Guelph.

The Gryphons boast a tough defensive unit and have always played their best football when squaring off against Mac.

The 2010 version of the contest would live up to the hype, with Guelph almost rallying from a 33 point deficit. The Marauders managed to stave off the comeback, but lost promising rookie kicker Tyler Crapigna for the season due to a broken leg.

The final game of the regular season saw the maroon and grey easily topple the Toronto Varsity Blues with a well-rounded performance, securing 6-2 record to close out the campaign.

After routing the defending Vanier Cup Champions from Queen’s in the first round, it was back to London for the Marauders, where the formidable Mustangs waited in what would turn out to be a thrilling OUA semi-final.

After taking a 10-0 lead in the first quarter, Mac fell just short of the Mustangs and their relentless running game, falling 34-28 to Western and ending their season.

Notable performers from 2010 include quarterback Kyle Quinlan, who was one of the OUA’s most consistent playmakers last year, finishing second in passing yards (2018) and touchdowns (19). He threw only six interceptions, and complimented his air attack with 479 rushing yards.

Running back Joey Nemet had another productive season despite missing time with an injured hip. The ball carrier totalled 572 rushing yards, fourth in the OUA, and added six touchdowns. Nemet’s backfield partner, Jordan Kozina, tallied 306 allpurpose yards. Kozina also missed time with a hand injury he suffered against Ottawa.

The team’s leading receivers were Matt Peressini and DiCroce. Peressini finished fifth in the OUA with 577 yards and five touchdowns, while DiCroce ended up with 416 yards and two majors despite playing in just four regular season contests.

Reserve receivers Brad Fochesato, Alex Francella, and Joshua Kreidl stepped up and provided Quinlan with reliable targets and consistent production when starters went down. The trio accumulated 442 yards, the bulk of which came in weeks three through six.

One defence, linebacker Ryan Chmielewski led the team with 41 tackles.

JEFF TAM / SILHOUETTE STAFF

The Marauders are primed for a Yates Cup run as they kick off 2011.

He also recorded three and half sacks, three interceptions, and two forced fumbles. Defensive backs Byron Metcalf and Steven Ventresca each registered 27.5 tackles and combined for six interceptions.

Sitting among league leaders in a number of statistical categories in 2010 makes it easy to wonder what might have been had the team not been bit so hard by the injury bug.

Coaches trust that the experience and playing time that many players gained

last year will pay big dividends, and will translate into another run at a championship this season.

2010 was an important year for McMaster football, as it demonstrated that the team has a roster packed with playmakers that are ready to contribute when called upon.

It put on display the unit’s talent and focus. As a result, the Marauders are checking into the new season with confidence, and leaving doubt at the door.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2011

2011 Schedule September 5 @Queens W 26-2 10 Western L 48-21 17 @Windsor 24 @Guelph October 1 Waterloo 6 Toronto 15 @Laurier 22 Ottawa

The big games of 2011 A quick look at the important games remaining on the Marauder’s 2011 regular season schedule.

With 6 games remaining there are 3 key teams standing in the way of a playoff berth compiled by Brandon Meawasige

THE SILHOUETTE • S3

@ Guelph – Sept. 24 The loss of Nick Fitzgibbon is certainly going to hurt the Gryphons’ running game this season. The first team OUA all star in 2010 added an electric presence every time he stepped on the field. The offence will have to rely on veteran quarterback Chris Rossetti to lead them towards the playoffs.

The game will be a good test for a McMaster secondary that was a bright spot in last Saturday’s loss to Western. The Marauders were victorious when these to met a year ago, defeating the Gryphons at Ron Joyce Stadium 43-35.

@ Laurier- Oct. 15 The Golden Hawks will be looking for redemption after a week two loss to the Windsor Lancers. Shamawd Chambers and Dillon Heap will be among the top OUA receivers this year, opening up the field for Anton Bennett, one of the league’s best veteran rushers. This game, sure to have playoff implications, will again be a big test for the Marauders’ D.

Vs. Ottawa- Oct. 22 The 2010 runners-up for the Yates Cup began the season unranked in the CIS top ten after the departure of several key players including Hec Crighton winner Quarterback Brad Sinopoli. However, through two weeks, the Gee Gees have the number one-ranked defense in the OUA. This will be the final game of the regular season and both teams are sure to be hunting for a ‘W.’ Ottawa got the better of the Marauders in a close game when these two met in the nation’s capital in 2010

S4 • THE SILHOUETTE

THE SILHOUETTE • S5

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2011 THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2011

Booting the injury bug

BRIAN DECKER / EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Kicker Tyler Crapigna talks about the horrific injury that prematurely ended his rookie season last year

Brian Decker Executive Editor

Nearly everyone who watched the McMaster Marauders and Guelph Gryphons play on a mild October night last year remembers one singular play from that game.

There were numerous highlights that game; a record-setting 129-yard punt return by Gryphons receiver Jedd Gardner and a 66-yard rush for a touchdown by Mac’s Joey Nemet were certainly worth recalling.

But that one memorable play likely never made it to any highlight reels. Instead, it’s a play everyone at Ron Joyce Stadium that night would like to forget – especially Tyler Crapigna.

Crapigna, then a rookie kicker, suffered a broken leg on a botched kick return.

It was one of those football injuries that is so immediate and visible that it causes every person in the stadium to forget about football for a moment.

Crapigna is quick to recall the date it happened – Oct. 7 – and, against his own wishes, remembers all the gruesome details of that fateful evening.

“It’s not like I forget it. I pretty much remember everything that happened. I’ve never had a real serious injury until then,” he said.

The weight of two 200-pound-plus Gryphons landing on him in an awkward fashion resulted in a severe break of his right tibia and fibia on his kicking leg.

It was a sudden, horrifying end to what had been an outstanding rookie season.

Instead of leading the Marauders’ special teams charge, Crapigna was forced to watch from the sidelines on his crutches.

“I wanted to get back on the field pretty much instantly, as soon as I was in that hospital bed. It was really killing me when I watched us play [in the OUA semi-final] against Western.”

Mac would go on to lose that game 34-28. The battle for field position without a top-level kicker was a weakness that showed, with McMaster relying on a variety of players, including quarterback Kyle Quinlan, to come up with a variety of creative punting plays.

Now fully healed and rehabilitated, Crapigna is back with the Marauders for the 2011 season.

And while the team is more than grateful to have him back – coach Stefan Ptaszek calls him the “quarterback of our special teams,” – the kicker is simply focused on getting back to what’s normal: playing football.

“I like to think of it as a fluke. It happened to me. I put that in the back of my mind and go out there every day like it never happened,” said Crapigna.

At 5’7” and 160 pounds, Crapigna is perhaps the smallest player to take the field each Saturday. But the rehab process he undertook last winter would be nothing short of a huge task for any player.

Following the injury, Crapigna returned home to his native Nepean, Ontario to recover. That meant missing the rest of the first semester and deferring classes to go with a rigorous training and rehab schedule.

“It messed up my whole schedule. I got back into it [by second semester], but it was pretty difficult, especially for a first-year student,” said Crapigna, perhaps modestly understating the challenges he faced.

“Mentally and physically, all the hurdles that he went through in the last couple of months… we can’t even imagine,” said Ptaszek.

It wasn’t until mid-May that Crapigna was able to return to kicking activities, when he started off slowly by booting around foam balls.

Coupled with a routine of hundreds upon hundreds of squats, it was finally the turning point of a long journey from being helplessly confined to a hospital bed all the way back to returning to the field.

The long time off also gave Crapigna a chance (or rather, no choice but) to work on the fundamentals of his kicking. An accurate placekicker through his high school and rep years, punting is still an art being mastered by the young player.

“I’ve noticed that the quality of my punting has definitely increased since last year. I feel like I have the same power as before, but the injury really made me look more at the fundamentals and the little things to help me out a little bit more,” said Crapigna.

The presence of an accurate and dependable kicker like Crapigna is not only a valuable asset to a football team in the endless battle for position, it’s a luxury that has never been afforded to Ptaszek before Crapigna’s arrival.

“The quality of kicking is very different than anything I’ve had since I arrived [in 2006],” said Ptaszek of Crapigna’s abilities. “And he’s pretty much money inside 35 yards.”

All of Crapigna’s rehab and work to get back culminated with a return to the field in this year’s regular season opener against Queen’s on Sept. 5.

And what did Crapigna do to show the nerves of returning to game action for the first time since the injury?

Looking like nothing had ever happened, he nailed his first four field goals with ease before having one blocked and missing an inconsequential fourth-quarter boot.

It was a solid-if-unspectacular return that showed, if anything, football was back to being a normal activity.

As the season rolls on, the Marauders will likely require at some point a deft punt or a bomb of a field goal from Crapigna to win games.

But considering the hardship he’s faced just to get back on the field, those challenges seem small by comparison.

“He’s not a kicker that plays football,” said Ptaszek, rhyming off the old football analogy, “but more of a football player that happens to kick.”

PHOTO C/O RICHARD ZAZULAK

After nearly a year on the sidelines, Tyler Crapigna is ready to kick once again.

“I feel like I have the same power as before, but the injury really made me look more at the fundamentals and the little things.”

S6 • THE SILHOUETTE

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2011

The 2011 Marauders: Offence Position

Height/ Weight

Wide Receiver Quarterback Wide Receiver Wide Receiver Quarterback Wide Receiver Running Back Running Back Wide Receiver Wide Receiver Running Back Offensive Line Offensive Line Offensive Line Offensive Line Offensive Line Offensive Line Offensive Line Offensive Line Wide Receiver Wide Receiver Wide Receiver Kicker/ Punter

5-11/ 192 6-2/ 200 6-0/ 180 6-0/ 185 6-3/ 215 6-1/ 184 5-10/ 205 5-10/ 185 6-1/ 189 5-11/ 172 5-11/ 205 6-2/ 280 6-8/ 340 6-4/ 315 6-7/ 325 6-5/ 305 6-3/ 325 6-6/ 284 6-4/ 285 6-2/ 205 6-0/ 180 6-4/ 230 5-7/ 156

#67 Hudson

#1 Dicroce

#59 Sewell

#24 Peressini

#82 Fochesato

Major/ Year

Social Sciences/ 2 Political Science/ 2 Classics/ 2 H Health Studies/ 2 H Economics/ 3 Philosophy/ 3 Social Sciences/ 1 Geography/ 2 Philosophy/ 2 Continuing/ 1 H Kinesiology/ 4 H Kinesiology/ 3 Commerce/ 3 Sociology/ 3 Social Sciences/ 1 H Sociology/ 3 Sociology/ 2 H History & Political Science/ 2 H History/ 3 H Political Science/ 4 Civil Engineering & Management/ 4 Political Science/ 2 Environmental & Earth Sciences

#61 Medeiros

#51 Montag

#68 Pickard

#19 Jones

#1 Michael Dicroce

#12 Quinlan

#35 Nemet

Starting Lineup

#83 Babic

Impact Performer

#Name

1 Michael Dicroce 2 Marshall Ferguson 6 Dahlin Brooks 11 Benjamin O’Connor 12 Kyle Quinlan 19 Jarred Jones 20 Chris Pezzetta 22 James Hill 23 Gary Spero 24 Matthew Peressini 35 Joey Nemet 51 Elliot Montag 59 Matthew Sewell 61 Jason Medeiros 63 Sean Smith 65 Stephen Schneider 66 Tyler Goldsworthy 67 Bryce Hudson 68 Christopher Pickard 82 Bradley Fochesato 83 Robert Babic 88 Spencer Moore 4 Tyler Crapigna

“He’s our explosiveness, our verticle push. He’s the reason teams can’t just lock down man to man and smother us.

Because you can’t cover that.”

- Head Coach, Stefan Ptaszek

THE SILHOUETTE • S7

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2011

Impact Performer

Starting Lineup

#18 Cupido

#54 Ryan Chmielewski

#8 Daly

#9 Dicks

#54 Chmielewski

“He has maybe the best instincts of any player on the team. He has a unique way of finding the football, and it makes him one of our best playmakers.”

#90 Dent

#26 Ventresca #33 Dennis

#52 D’Aguilar

#99 Bhangoo

#13 Beaton

#37 Filice

#32 Caterine

- Head Coach, Stefan Ptaszek

# Name 7 Nicholas Shortill 8 Michael Daly 9 Allan Dicks 13 Shane Beaton 18 Joey Cupido 25 Zachary Ismael 26 Steven Ventresca 27 Scott Martin 30 Cory Bye 32 Scott Caterine 33 Stephen Dennis 37 Roberto Filice 38 Daniel Baronas 40 Dylan Roesch- Crane 42 Aram Eisho 50 Jamie Singleton 52 Benjamin D’Aguilar 54 Ryan Chmielewski 55 Christian D’Aguilar 56 Ryan Saunders 78 Adam Dickson 90 Mackenzie Dent 94 Kareem Ferreira 95 Kevin Malcom 99 Tanvir Bhangoo

Position

Height/ Weight

Major/ Year

Linebacker Defensive Back Defensive Back LineBacker Defensive Back Defensive Back Defensive Back Defensive Back Defensive Line Defensive Line Defensive Back Defensive Line Linebacker Linebacker Linebacker Linebacker Linebacker Linebacker Defensive Line Linebacker Defensive Line Defensive Line Defensive Line Defensive Line Defensive Line

6-2/ 208 6-0/ 185 5-9/ 186 5-11/ 193 5-10/ 175 5-7/ 188 6-0/ 180 5-9/ 183 6-1/ 235 6-5/ 255 6-0/ 185 6-3/ 180 5-11/ 195 6-1/ 218 6-1/ 205 6-0/ 213 6-2/ 235 6-0/ 220 6-4/ 247 6-1/ 220 6-4/ 345 6-5/ 260 6-0/ 281 5-10/ 256 6-3/ 295

Life Sciences/ 1 Geography/ 2 Commerce/ 2 Sociology/ 3 H Kinesiology/ 3 Social Sciences/ 2 Social Sciences/ 1 H Kinesiology/ 2 H Communication Studies/ 4 H Kinesiology/ 4 Social Sciences/ 2 Social Sciences/ 3 H Kinesiology/ 4 H English & History/ 2 Social Sciences/ 1 Science/ 2 Sociology/ 2 H Communication Studies & Soc. / 4 Humanities/ 1 H Kinesiology/ 2 Engineering Physics/ 2 Continuing/ 1 H Art/ 4 History/ 2 H Commerce/ 4

The 2011 Marauders: Defence

S8 • THE SILHOUETTE

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2011

Nemet carries the load for Mac Fraser Caldwell Sports Editor

Joey Nemet will be a solitary figure in McMaster’s backfield this season, but if he’s feeling a little lonely at this early stage, he certainly isn’t letting anyone else know.

Nemet, who enters his fifth season in the maroon and grey this season, will be handling the lion’s share of the Marauders’ carries as he leads a core of young and largely raw running backs. Gone is the Burlington native’s partner in crime from the last campaign, Jordan Kozina, who graduated at the conclusion of last year.

However, Nemet insists that the added responsibility of being McMaster’s constant feature back is not something that bothers him.

“There’s more on my shoulders this year for sure,” said the veteran running back. “But in 2008, in my second year, I didn’t have anyone sharing the load with me and things worked out well that year. I have absolutely no problem with doing that again.

“Plus, we have a bunch of young backs that you’ll see filling in and getting carries, and they’re all very capable.”

Helping those younger runners adjust to the CIS game and grow as football players is part and parcel of Nemet’s position as the veteran of the group, and it’s a role that the senior excels in.

“It’s something I actually enjoy, being the mentor in the room,” said Nemet.

“On a day-to-day basis, my help is mostly mental and tactical in nature. A lot of these kids come in and are physically ready to play at this level. They have the tools and they can run the ball.

“It’s just a matter of adjusting to the speed of the game and picking up on the different cues that defences give you. It’s a much different game from the one they play at the high school level, a lot faster. That’s what I try to help them deal with.”

On the topic of Nemet as a role model to his fellow players, the McMaster coach Stefan Ptasek had nothing but praise for his veteran runner and his influence on the younger Marauders.

“Joey’s a religious workout fiend.

He’s a kid who is committed to football 12 months of the year,” said Ptasek. “Joey does all of the little things right. He holds onto the

PHOTO C/O CHRISTOPHER CHANG

Joey Nemet will be handling the majority of Mac’s carries this year as the team’s only senior rusher. football, he protects the passer. And I love that the young guys get to see that kind of stuff.

“He hasn’t missed a practice or a workout since we opened training camp.

Again, that’s a great example for our younger players.”

Much of Nemet’s on-field work is done in the shadow of McMaster’s more high-profile passing game, as fans and opposing teams alike centre their attention on star quarterback Kyle Quinlan.

However, the running back believes that the prominence of his team’s aerial attack in no way changes his obligations or approach during a game.

“I still put the pressure on myself,” said Nemet. “Because even if we’re passing it’s my job to block for Kyle. I take both jobs very seriously. Whatever we decide to

do on offence in a given game, I’m up for the challenge.”

Being a fifth-year veteran of a program that has challenged the top teams in the province unsuccessfully for the past few seasons, Nemet understandably stresses that his priority this year is to win and deliver on the Marauders’ lofty ambitions of OUA supremacy. Personal success along the way is a bonus that the running back is ready to welcome.

“Every game I want to do my personal best and run my plays to the best of my ability,” said Nemet. “I really just want to win. Being a fifth-year and with the team having knocked on the door for the last few seasons, winning is the most important thing.

“Naturally though, I wouldn’t mind a few big gains along the way.”

While their recent defeat at the hands of the Western Mustangs serves to put something of a damper on McMaster’s early expectations, Nemet is adamant that the continued development of the team is more important than individual results.

“The most important thing is that we keep getting better as a team,” said Nemet. “Last year, we played Queen’s in the first week of the season and then played them again in the first round of the playoffs.

The first game was close, and the playoff game wasn’t. That showed how far we came as a team.”

The Marauders will look for such improvement as they continue to play out their OUA campaign this season. With veterans such as Nemet in place, the maroon and grey can hope that mentorship breeds progress.

THE SILHOUETTE • C1

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2011

INSIDEOUT

production office extension: 27117 insideout@thesil.ca

Stop and go: accounts of misadventure abroad

I

Jonathon Fairclough Production Editor

t so happened that exams were wrapping up, I was having a terrible year and the thought of sticking around Hamilton for another month and a half before heading to Europe loomed over my mind.

In mid-June I was expected in Belgium for job training – the same job I’d done summer-long for the past two years. But I figured this time around I’d make it out earlier.

So, in between nights at the Fox and days at the library, I shot off resumes and cover letters to every single bar and hostel I could find on the internet; Rome, Barcelona, Madrid, Paris, London, Ghent… And guess what, none were interested. Well, except for one.

Exams finished on a Wednesday.

Thursday morning I awoke to an email: “When can you make it here?” Monday I was working at a shitty food processing plant, getting money for a plane ticket. The following Sunday I was saying good-bye to my family at Pearson – destination Brussels.

An Irish pub, of all places, picked me up. They were located in my favourite city, Ghent, a one-hour train from Brussels in East-Flanders. If it weren’t for this job opportunity, I would probably never have made it

to Brussels.

Every year, mid-June, myself and other trip leaders assembled in Ghent for a week-long orientation, preparing for our guide jobs. In the time off we’d roam the city, with its medieval buildings and quaint little bars, and tell each other that we’d have to come back for longer.

So here I am, I thought to myself, fulfilling that promise.

I hop off the local train at St. Pieters Station and walk through the building’s main entrance to find thousands of students talking, eating, smoking and generally living. School is still going in Belgium, and the 50,000 students of Ghent are enjoying their lunch. I smile to myself. This is going to be interesting.

I meet Heidi on the corner, and she takes me to her car.

Heidi was my boss, is my boss, but better yet she’s a good friend now. Late thirties, Belgian, speaks five languages, and has done more travelling in her lifetime than myself and all of my travel friends combined.

In the summer she runs my travel company, in the fall she guides private trips with other • PLEASE SEE AND SO, C3

ThreadCount Elana Mlotek

Second Year Public Relations

Favourite Quote: “Just be yourself” Favourite Band: Green Day Describe your style: comfortable and trendy chic What do you look for in a significant other? Someone who enjoys life

Necklace: made by mom Belt: garage sale Fashion glasses: Black Market $10 Photos by Tyler Hayward and Ricardo Padilla

Female ejaculation

Butter my chicken, baby

Learn a thing or two that they didn’t teach you in school, kids.

Spice up your life with this Indian inspired recipe. .

Pg. C4

Pg. C6

THE SILHOUETTE • C3

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2011

And so the adventure begins

JONATHON FAIRCLOUGH / PRODUCTION EDITOR

• CONT’D FROM C1 Belgians to places like China, Madagascar and Chile. In the winter she goes wherever she likes (last year it was heli-skiing in Alaska) and in the spring she lives in Austria, working part time and snowboarding.

She’s offered me her couch until I can find a place of my own and, given that I’m alone and homeless in a big city, I happily oblige.

A quick phone-call later and I’m speaking to the manager of the pub, Tony. East London accent, straight to the point, he asks me to swing by the bar for a tour and to talk over my hours.

A five-minute bike ride and I’m there, right on the main canal of the city, with the highest concentration of people and students. This is where I’ll be working.

Tony’s thin. He told me he’s lost 15 pounds in the last month - all from working. He just bought the place and is putting in twelveplus hours a day, seven days a week.

I’m beginning to worry. I may have exaggerated my serving experience. I have none. But here I am, in one of the busiest bars (if not the busiest bar) in the city. I start work tomorrow, a “short” ten-hour shift.

The shift goes by fast. I’m shown a thousand things and am expected to remember each of them the first time. There’s only four staff working during a shift, four floors, and dozens of customers at a time.

They begin to see my clumsiness from the beginning, my elementary mistakes.

Some, but not all, of the customers only speak Flemish so I have to learn sign language pretty quick. One pointer-finger up is a half-pint of Stella, a pointer-finger and a pinky-finger held up like something you’d see at a rock concert is for a ‘Duvel’, an 8 per cent beer which is aptly translated as “Devil”. Delicious, I should add.

I’m spilling drinks on

people the first day, food orders are backing up, Tony becomes suspicious: “everything going okay Jon?” he asks. “Yeah, first day jitters I guess.”

I’m fired in a week. “This job just isn’t for you,” they say.

Yeah, they’re probably right.

And so began my real adventure: a month and a half in a foreign country, on my own, without a job. It would prove to be the most life-improving experience of my young and misinformed life, and it would see the most unlikely of events. Everything from sleeping in a condemned house to being in the middle of a football riot to robbing a one-night stand. It’s all there.

And I hope, dearest reader of the Silhouette, that you stick around for the journey. There is much to discuss, much to laugh about.

Until next time, enjoy the rest of the issue. I’m going to try to find a new bar job.

School sucks. We don’t. Come write for InsideOut, an essayfree zone.

Volunteer meetings Thursdays @ 1:30 p.m. or

E-mail insideout@thesil.ca

FashionWatch

Nail polish: the fall season craze completely dry.

To transfer the newspaper or comic book ink, pour some Just when we thought we had rubbing alcohol into a small no more options to make our container and dip your nail into it fingernails stand out from the rest, for about five seconds. Then, take a we were pleasantly surprised by a small piece of newspaper and press number of new innovative ways to it firmly onto the nail for about decorate them. fifteen seconds.

From OPI’s Shatter

Peel it off and then put to pressing on on some clear nail newspaper ink, we polish to prevent are now provided the ink from with plenty of Fall-inspired colours rubbing off and options. If you’re such as plum, rusty to give your nails tired of the same a beautiful shine. orange, mustard old same old, try Statement color yellow, metallic out these new styles. combinations – They’re sure to make gold, nude and navy Painting each nail a statement. same color blue are all listed the

O P I is so 2010. The Shatter – Released as the most popular newest trend in just last year, Hollywood is to colours for the this funky polish paint four fingers season.” has completely the same, with one revolutionized the being painted a nail industry. To use ‘Shatter’, completely different color. simply paint your nails any color of

Try using bright, your choice. contrasting colors to really make

Then, place one coat of your hands stand out! the Shatter over the base color and

So now that you’re well watch closely to witness the shatter equipped on new designs, it may in action. The black shatter seems to be worth your while to know what turn out the best, although blue and colors are in this fall! red are pretty funky too.

Fall-inspired colors such

Newspaper & Comic as plum, rusty orange, mustard Strip nails – Who knew newspaper yellow, metallic gold, nude and and comic books could be so navy blue are all listed as the most fashionable! popular colors for the season.

To achieve this look, first

Combine one or more of put on a base coat to protect your these colors with one of the designs nails. Then, paint your nails a mentioned above and you’ll be one light grey and wait for them to be of the trendiest students on campus!

Chanèle Jordan Silhouette Staff

C4 • THE SILHOUETTE

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2011

SEX and the STEEL CITY

The truth about female ejaculation Natalie Timperio

Senior Insideout Editor

Our prepubescent years cause us to gape in wonderment at that “thing” between our thighs, while our teen years leave us doing more or less the same.

Sex education throughout our primary and secondary schooling does an excellent job of informing us about the purpose of that “thing”.

Without a doubt, university and the years beyond offer a more practical route to discovering the functional benefits of that “thing”.

Yet, for both men and women alike, the story is the same; before we do we must know.

An unfrequented area of discussion, and surely not one that is ever discussed in a school setting, is that of female ejaculation. It’s a topic so avoided that anyone may easily mistake it for taboo or, quite frankly, myth.

Part of this lies in the fact that there has been a relatively high degree of disagreement surrounding the subject.

As it stands now, there is no consensus in the field about what causes and constitutes female ejaculation.

It is generally agreed, though, that “squirting” is triggered

by G-spot stimulation during sexual intercourse and is most often likened to a peeing sensation.

Naturally, it can be quite difficult for a woman to ejaculate, not only because the G-spot, which is also a hotly debated topic, requires careful stimulation, but also because that “I gotta go” feeling can be a definite mood-killer.

Although female ejaculate is released through the urethra it is in fact not urine, or so most would

agree.

It has been speculated that the colourless, odourless fluid originates not from bladder but, rather, the female prostate. The existence of the female prostate, however, remains questionable as well.

Despite disagreement among sexperts, one thing remains clear; with the right stimulation, women can, along with an intense urge to urinate, experience an unforgettable surge of pleasure.

Let this be enough to spur you to sack right now, ladies.

Even so, not all women are able to ejaculate – in fact, most aren’t. This is not to say that women who do not ejaculate do not orgasm, of course.

An orgasm is simply a different sensation of sexual pleasure, in that it is a series of muscular contractions experienced in the nether-regions upon stimulation of the genitals.

Don’t be discouraged, though, it’s simply a matter of being in the right frame of mind, as in not worrying that you’re about to wet the bed, ladies.

Letting go, quite literally, is key – and, of course, is receiving the proper stimulation (cough cough, gents).

Ejaculating, however, is not the be-all and end all to sex.

While it can truly enhance the sexual experience for both partners, ejaculating does not necessarily determine the quality of your libido.

Avoid mishaps and meltdowns and do away with any pressure you may feel to ejaculate or make your partner ejaculate, and simply enjoy each other.

After all, great things often happen when least expected.

Relax, Let go, and release your inner goddess, just don’t forget to shave.

JOY SANTIAGO/ MULTIMEDIA EDITOR

THE SILHOUETTE • C5

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2011

So long, McMaster Former McMaster student Zain Awamleh has fought her last battle with MUGSI; easier course registration and better selection sparked her move to Western The process of switching in time for third year was tough because not all of her courses transferred over.

You know the story.

She took classes at Mac Once each year, you’re cutting deep into a good night’s this past summer to help her gain sleep, clicking ‘MUSGI’ and ‘SO- some relevant credits. “But every LAR’ like you’re playing a slot ma- step of the way Western was helping me so much, and I started to rechine.

Except, you never hit the alize it was the right school for me,” jackpot. The courses you’re try- she said.

When it came time to ing to get into are full. They aren’t even the courses you wanted. Those choose her new classes, she found ones weren’t offered this year, or that Western’s course selection prothey conflicted with others that you cess was far better than Mac’s.

“There was a limitless needed to take.

Sometimes, limited course number of courses in my departselection changes plans you had for ment, so much variety,” she said. your degree. Sometimes, you’ve got The selection portal was “not at all” like MUGSI/SOLAR. “The server to do something about it.

A year ago, Zain Awam- is always available, very organized leh was starting her second year and you never get locked out.

“I was telling some of my as an honours life sciences student friends at Western that I at Mac. She needed to wake up early couldn’t get in to four of the I was telling some to register [at McMaster] and they made fun courses she of friends at of me ... because they needed. An adWestern never worry about findvisor suggested ing a spot in a class.” she leave the that I needed GlobeCampus, courses for to wake an online resource of later years.

She picked 10 up early to register the Globe and Mail that focuses on student life classes that had [at McMaster] at Canadian universiroom for her, and they made ties and colleges, rates but still had a fun of me.” schools in a range of atlab conflict in tributes. While Western second term. gets an ‘A-’ for “Ease S h e spoke to an academic advisor in her of Course Registration Process”, faculty office, who was unable to McMaster has a ‘C’. An ‘A+’ goes to Western for “Class Size”, while help.

The advisor suggested she McMaster has a ‘B+’.

The average number of take a first-year geology course to fill the spot, but the course would students in a first-year class at not have contributed to her degree. Mac is 392, well above average. At “The second I walked out Western, it’s less than a third of that of that office I was determined to number at 127.

If it wasn’t for course switch schools,” she said.

It was last winter that Zain problems, Zain would still be at began to make the switch over to the McMaster. “It has culture and spirit.

Basic Medical Sciences program at I love its campus, and I had a great experience with some professors Western.

Her friends discouraged and some courses as well,” she said her from going, suggesting that she of her former school.

“That is all that Mac is just tough it out for her final two years. “My education is an invest- missing; a good registration experiment,” she told them, “and I am not ence and more course variety and willing to settle when there is some- availability. Unfortunately, for a thing out there that will be better for student like me those are big pieces Discouraged student transfers to Western University after frustration with school registration. of the puzzle.” me.”

Sam Colbert Managing Editor

Ricardo Padilla / Assistant Photo Editor

United Way Campaign connects students to community organizations Erin O’Neil

The Silhouette

The first week of school is already over, and it’s now time to settle into that familiar rhythm of going to class, studying and ... well, what about volunteering?

It takes more than good marks and a bachelor’s degree to get a job these days. It’s no secret that a track record of volunteer service demonstrates work ethic, dedication and good values to potential employers.

What is less considered is that volunteering allows students to take a potential career out for a test drive.

Volunteer opportunities allow students to explore what it would be like to work in a certain field or at a particular organization, and to use that experience to make

decisions after graduation.

But, regardless of motive, volunteering is a rewarding and often surprisingly fun experience.

Hamilton is a city with many opportunities for students who want to volunteer.

The local United Way supports 133 programs through 73 agencies alone, and there are countless other organizations in town that need volunteers.

For students looking to get involved in the community outside of McMaster, the Community Engagement and Volunteer Fair is a good place to start. It’s taking place Sept. 20 and 21 in the student centre.

The fair is an opportunity for students to speak with representatives from dozens of community organizations and to find a placement that fits with their

interests, personal goals and area of study.

“When you make a commitment to volunteer with

of community service-learning, civic engagement and leadership at the Student Success Centre. “There are so many local organizations and so many opportunities for students, you just need to do a little research and find a good fit.”

This year, for the This year, for the first first time ever, the time ever, the McMaster United McMaster Way Campaign is partnering with the Community Engagement United Way and Volunteer Fair.

The fair will Campaign is feature many of the community parterning with the organizations that benefit directly Community from the campaign.

“Volunteers and donors Engagement and are vital to our communities,” Volunteer fair.” said campaign co-chair and MSU President Matthew Dillon-Leitch. an organization, it’s important to “The fair is the perfect way to find a position that contributes highlight the many volunteer meaningfully to the community opportunities that exist and to and also that fulfills your personal show the McMaster community the goals,” said Adam Kuhn, manager real difference that their generous

donations to the United Way make.”

As part of the second fair day on Sept. 21, McMaster President Patrick Deane and Len Lifchus, CEO of the United Way of Burlington and Greater Hamilton, will unveil the target of the 2011

McMaster United Way Campaign. The campaign, “Change Starts Here”, will be launched at 12:30 p.m. in the MUSC Marketplace.

The Community Engagement and Volunteer Fair is organized by the Faculty of Social Sciences and Experiential Education office, in partnership with the Student Success Centre, Community Volunteer Action (CVA) and Volunteer Hamilton. The event is sponsored by the School of Graduate Studies, the McMaster Alumni Association and the School of Nursing.

C6 • THE SILHOUETTE

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2011

The bold flavours of India Cassandra Jeffery

Assistant Insideout Editor

In this week’s Silhouette, we will be discussing our experience with cooking and eating the delectable Indian dish, butter chicken. Starting with the basics, you’ll need a variety of spices and ingredients…

HOW IT’S MADE Most of these ingredients can be found at your local grocery store; however some authentic spices such as turmeric or cardamom may take a bit of searching. Try checking out the downtown farmers’ marker in Jackson Square. It carries a wide variety of globally inspired foods and authentic ethic cuisine. Plus, most items found at the farmers’ market are relatively cheap, you’re supporting the local economy and you know it’s probably nonna’s ancient recipe, handed down through the generations. It’s practically guaranteed to be tasty.

Once you’ve gathered all of your ingredients, you may start the butter chicken adventure by preparing the chicken. In a medium bowl, place chicken, which will be cut into small, bite size pieces, in a marinade of lemon juice, olive oil and curry powder. There should be enough powder to lightly coat the chicken.

Set the chicken aside and prepare the base. In a deep skillet, cook onion, garlic and ginger in one tbsp. of olive oil and one tbsp. of butter for about four minutes, or until the onions have cooked down and have become a paste-like substance. Next, add the curry powder, pepper, salt, tomato puree, and a tbsp. of butter and simmer for five minutes. The mixture should be rather dense but easy enough to stir. Here is where you would add in the optional ingredients if desired. These ingredients add a spicy flare to the dish, so if you’re not a person who can handle the heat, I would advise skipping most of the optional ingredients.

While the base is simmering, take a small skillet and slightly brown the outside of your chicken. This will ensure the meat is fully cooked. When the meat is no longer pink on the outside, pour the chicken in with the base, bring the base back to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 11-15 minutes or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked.

Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the heavy cream or milk and let sit for approximately five minutes or until the cream is thoroughly mixed in the base. Once ready, serve butter chicken over basmati rice and toast naan bread to accompany the dish.

ALTERNATIVES Butter chicken is a great dish to experiment with. For example, if you happen to be a vegetarian you can use tofu as an alternative to the chicken or you can use paneer, which is an Indian cheese. This cheese is soft in texture, yet sticky enough to hold its shape; it’s a great alternative for chicken and it’s delightfully tasty. Not only is this meal perfect for vegetarians, but it can also be figure friendly. If you’re trying to watch the waist line then try substituting the heavy cream for natural, plain, and organic yogurt. Also, the butter in the original recipe can definitely add to your calorie intake so try cutting down the portions of butter. The base will not be as creamy without the recommended amount of butter but it won’t change much of the taste. Lastly, if you’re concerned about calorie intake, cut out the naan bread. This staple item is delicious and really adds to the experience, but it is quite dense.

THE END RESULT How does it taste?

This classic Indian dish has a unique aroma, texture and taste that will surely satisfy your taste buds. What makes butter chicken exceptional is that it caters to all individuals, in terms of taste preferences.

If you’re a person who enjoys the authenticity of spicy, yet sweet Indian curries, then you’ll love the bold aroma this dish has to offer. The spices blend beautifully to create the perfect amount of heat and smoky taste while the heavy cream adds a rich texture, creating a truly savoury Indian experience. If you’re not looking for a lot of heat, try cutting down the curry and skip some of the optional ingredients.

The dish will still have the smooth texture and bold taste, you’ll just need less water.

Despite the butter and cream, butter chicken is a relatively healthy option and a great way to add flavour to your otherwise boring week of spaghetti dinners. The saultry flavour of curry and cumin leave a distinct taste that will surely leave you craving for more. Also, using basmati rice as a bed to the butter chicken is a great way to cool down the spicy flavour and soak up all of the creamy goodness.

You’ll be sure to impress with this meal, so try it out today and experience a little taste of India.

Wikimedia Commons

Have a little taste of India and try the bold, authentic flavour of butter chicken.

WHAT’S IN IT? Ingredients 2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breast 2 tbsp. lemon juice 1 tbsp. olive oil 2 tsp. curry powder 1 onion, thinly sliced 3 gloves of garlic, minced 1 tbsp. of finely chopped ginger root 1 tbsp. olive oil and butter 1 tbsp. curry powder 1 stick of cinnamon 1 bay leaf 1/2 tsp. salt and pepper 2 cups of tomato puree 2 tbsp of butter 1/2 cup of heavy cream or evaporated milk Optional Ingredients Red chilli flakes Coriander Turmeric Cumin Green cardamom

THE SILHOUETTE • C7

Do you know your bathroom etiquette?

Taking care of buisness shouldn’t be disrespectful of others

WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

When doing your business follow the undeclared rules of bathroom etiquette.

Jenna Shamoon Silhouette Staff

Every person has one favourite room where they go for privacy.

For some, it’s the basement. For others, it’s the bedroom. But one room that should be the most private is, of course, the bathroom. It is where we do our personal “business”, if you will.

We go, we leave, multiple times a day, not thinking twice about the basic bodily functions we perform.But sometimes, these small trips end up in frustration over bad bathroom etiquette caused by people who, for some reason, do not have much common sense about proper bathroom behaviours.

To make it simple, let’s all learn to follow the seemingly easy, yet undeclared rules of bathroom etiquette.

Bathroom stalker When you’re waiting for a stall to open up, don’t stand right in front of the door.

No one likes a surprise visit from a random stranger invading their personal space. Try holding it in for a couple more seconds.

Graffiti bandit It’s when people carve pointless graffiti into the sides of the stall. No one wants to be forced to read how much you hate Lisa or how much you think Nickelback sucks. The bathroom stall is not a Tumblr, Facebook, Forumspring, or Twitter, so save your comments for the interweb world.

Bloody disaster Feminine hygiene products: a janitor’s worst nightmare. Girls, the containers are there for a reason. Use them.

The silent poop … thanks random stranger Pressing the hand dryer while someone is doing their business is an unusual yet great way to show common courtesy. Do it.

Space please?

For the fellas: If there is only one guy using a urinal, avoid the awkward situation of standing next to them. It creeps them out, especially if you’re looking right at them.

These tips for proper public bathroom behaviour aren’t difficult to follow. But what happens when the issues hit home … literally?

Bathroom conditions in the home are

definitely unique. It’s one thing when you live with your family. You tolerate the habits of other family members because, well, they’re family. But it turns into a different scenario when you’re living with friends, whether it’s on residence or off-campus. The basic rules still apply in this scenario, but the habits become less tolerable.

One of these habits is when people tend to overload their sinks with personal care products and hygiene products. Toothpaste, mouthwash, toothbrushes, dental floss, hand soap, face wash, the works. For the uncoordinated people of the world, sinks loaded with various items are not good.

People knock stuff over from time to time and a toothbrush in the toilet is not the cherry on top of a great day. The best thing to do is invest in a shelving unit or a cabinet. They keep everything organized and out of the toilet.Then there’s the big challenge of living on residence or in student housing.

There are some residence bathroom stories that definitely hit the failing grade of bathroom etiquette. Girls not cleaning up their make-up, people using each other’s personal hygiene or styling products without asking, strands of hair caking the floors and countertops – the list goes on and on. But we all know that not everyone can get along, so conflict is definitely possible at any given time.

There also comes the situation of living with the opposite sex, such as in student housing. All of us, men and women, tend to toss our clothes all over the place. Whether its bras or boxers, they can get everywhere.

Girls take forever in the shower and the bathroom soon becomes a sauna. Guys are confusing face-wash with hand soap, leaving you needing a new bottle of Neutrogena. A great way of dealing with these situations is to get to know those around you and to understand their habits.

Very soon, they won’t matter as much. Just keep your clothes in your own room at first. Try to take shorter showers.

Read labels. Once you develop close relationships with the people you live with, the issues will be easier to deal with.

The rules of bathroom etiquette are simple: try to keep the area as clean as possible, have common sense, and be courteous to the fact that other people are sharing the same space as you.

Just follow the undeclared rules, and the awkward, disgusting and annoying moments will be avoided.

THE SILHOUETTE • C9

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2011

BUSINESS

production office extension: 27117 business@thesil.ca

The 411 on renter’s insurance Experts assess the advantages of purchasing renter’s insurance

JOY SANTIAGO / THE SILHOUETTE

Renter’s insurance is an optimal way to ensure the protection of your belongings in the event of loss or damage.

Sonya Khanna Business Editor

Bid adieu to the comfortable bubble that is your home and welcome reemergence of post-secondary living.

As students nation-wide prepare for the year to come, whether it be mentally prepping for endless late night study sessions in the library or prepping your stomach for seemingly endless hours of postdrunken hangover torture, concern for renter’s insurance is probably the last thing on the minds of students.

Although the joys of student living are plentiful, students seldom remember that community living warrants vulnerability.

And according to a recent survey conducted by TD insurance, that’s a problem that could affect students in a major way.

According to a survey con-

ducted by TD Insurance, one-third of renters under the age of 35 are without renter’s insurance. Living away from home paves way for increased risk of theft and damage to personal possessions.

“Some students argue they don’t have enough valuable possessions to warrant renter’s insurance, but many head to school with smartphones, laptops and expensive textbooks,” says Vice President & Chief Underwriter of TD Insurance.

“Coupled with furniture, clothes and other household items, these can quickly add up to thousands of dollars.”

When assessing the pros and cons of purchasing renter’s insurance, finances might play a monumental role in the outcome of said conundrum.

It might be reassuring to the fellow money-conscious student to know that the average cost of finan-

cing renter’s insurance is as little as $12 per month; easily comparable to sacrificing a few beers here and there each month.

In the broader scheme of things, this is a small price to pay for the guaranteed protection of your

Students living in off-campus accommodations might be under the assumption that this doesn’t apply to them. Unfortunately, this is a common misconception. In case of property damage at a student party, such as the unanticipated kegger gone wrong scenario involving the alcohol induced accidental vandalSome students argue ism or theft of your laptop, you as the renter are responsible for coverthey don’t have ing the contents of the home under enough valuable your ownership.

Students must be aware of varipossessions, but ous crucial factors when considmany head to school ering whether to purchase renter’s with smartphones, insurance. It is important to assess whether you are covered under your laptops and parent’s policy as well as if there expensive are any exclusions from your partextbooks” ent’s policy depending on age and the duration of time away from home. Also be mindful of ways to goods, with the money going to a save including discounts provided beneficial long term cause. under certain circumstances, such

as to non-smokers as well as household that are armed with security systems and smoke alarms.

Students should seek to gain information on whether they are covered for liability in instances that may arise where a student is injured on their property. Negligence on a landlord’s behalf would be the failure to salt walkways in the winter.

Unsafe living conditions in your own living area are your responsibility, which could potentially result in paying damages in court in the event of an unexpected injury.

Give yourself options and understand your coverage. Secure yourself from the annoyances associated with potential loss or damages to personal belongings.

Purchasing renter’s insurance is an optimal avenue for students to maintain their financial health and well-being.

What’s the biz on the world market?

The EU

Asia

Technology

The European Commission has unvieled plans to implement a euro zone bond. Plans for the euro bond were set in motion in effort to ease market volatility due to the lingering threat of Greek default and will see the 17 EU countries collectively issue debt.

The US dollar surged 2.8% against the Korean won to 1,106.90 won, and soared 1.3% against the Indonesian currency to 8,730 rupiah amidst continuing fears the United States and European Union sovereign debt crisis has rapidly spread to other parts of the world, leading to a decline in invement in Asian markets.

Latest figures for tablet computers show continuing growth in the industry with an increase in worldwide media tablet shipments more than 300% from a year ago to 13.6 million. Apple continues to lead the tablet market with the iPad 2 holding a 68.3% share of the tablet market at the end of the second quarter.

Futures Movers Crude oil futures declined Wednesday amidst concerns linked to the health of the global economy and continued pessimism linked to lower demand for oil. Crude oil for the October delivery lost $1.30, 1.4% to trade at $88.91 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange.

Science Pain meds sold by Johnson & Johnson and Pfizer Inc. commonly used to relieve headaches and joint pain have been shown to increase the risk of kidney cancer by 51 percent, according to a study published by Internal medicine.

INTERESTED IN WRITING FOR BUSINESS? WE’RE ALWAYS LOOKING FOR VOLUNTEERS. COME BY OUR OFFICE - MUSC B110 EMAIL US - BUSINESS@THESIL.CA CALL US - 905-525-9140 X. 27117

C10 • THE SILHOUETTE

Dealing with the inevitable aches and pains of interning Get past the woes of menial work and soak in the knowledge given to you will be seemingly meaningless, they may all be pleasantly enriching, but it is important to conduct each task with as much Interning is certainly no walk in the park. The zest as you would for something more to your eager intern must be capable of adapting to liking.

Not too long ago I spoke with a rethe treacherous, fast-past jungle that is the ofcent grad on his experiences with his current fice.

It’s a job that requires mental prepa- entry level position and we shared our disconration to take on the gut wrenching menial tent with the lack of stimulating tasks in our day-to-day tasks of photocopying, and heav- current places of work, but he mentioned how en forbid, the blood splattered finger wounds he recently read the Secret and it drastically resulting from the seemingly endless piles of altered his mindset.

Although I don’t think I’ll be pickfiling. Be warned – this is no place for the ing up a copy of the Secret anytime soon, I did weak.

Well, that might have been a slight take back a crucial piece of advice from him, over-exaggeration. The life of an intern is not and that is to always maintain a positive attitude regardless of how many horrific and grotesque, but it repetitive, mind numbing certainly isn’t easy. For those tasks you are assigned. You who have secured an internYour job will be are constantly absorbing inship or for those seeking one formation and gaining cruout, you will have the opportunity to gain practical hands-on so much more ful- cial skills, why not take full of that. Your job experience outside of a typical filling if you put advantage will be so much more fulfillclassroom setting. forth a genuine ing to you if you put forth While the tasks of genuine effort rather than different internships vary greatly, don’t be surprised if effort rather than moping around your desk. think that every once in a while you are moping around you are Never above any internsummoned to do a seemingly ing task that is given to you. menial task, such as filing. your desk Maintain a chipper attitude Despite the mundane regardless of how you truly nature of these tasks, interns should not get discouraged as even the most feel and you will come across as a shining seemingly rudimentary jobs can provide star. Every task that you do is internally asskills that can be applied to your future career. sessed by your superiors, so in order to secure Interning provides individuals with the abil- that key reference letter or even guarantee ity to observe the operations of professional a potential position within the company for organizations, so the important thing to re- sometime in the future, always conduct busimember when feeling discouraged is simply, ness practices with integrity and precision.

Don’t think of it as filing, think of it to deal with it.

Not all the assignments that will be as...skill building!

Sonya Khanna Business Editor

Do you consider yourself to be an avid suit connoisseur?

Do you have a knack for all things business related?

If you answered yes to either of these questions then you should come write for the business section.

Come on don’t be shy, everyone is doing it.

Come out to our weekly meetings:

(code for: “better rates and cheaper loans”)

Thursday at 12:30 MUSC B110

www.membersfirst.ca

THE SILHOUETTE • C11

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2011

Vive la revolution digital!

The surge in e-book popularity has cast a daunting shadow on the future of print media

Sonya Khanna Business Editor

Is the so-called decline of print media beginning to affect other industries? You bet.

The decline of print media over the past few years isn’t exactly a secret. At the same time, digitization has emerged as a popular alternative.

With Amazon reportedly in the talks to develop a Kindle e-book library lending system, as well as the international book and music retailer Borders filing for bankruptcy, the prominence of digital media has become increasingly evident.

IKEA recently revamped a version of its bookshelves to cater to the continuously changing face of the book industry. The newly designed shelves and glass doors cater to the ever-growing population of individuals seeking decorative shelving. This newly designed piece of furniture is ideal for propping up books, as opposed to actually reading them.

As books have transitioned into dust-collecting ornaments it seems as though the beauty of print media has been overshadowed by e-books.

What is it that makes digitization so appealing to a mass demographic?

Is it the efficiency of storage, having the ability to archive electronically as well as having swift access to documents?

According to an article published in the Economist, in the first five months of this year sales of ebooks in the United States overtook those from hardback books, compared from a year earlier.

Inventory management for publishers is a hefty task including the potential risk of profit loss due to shortages in production and the subsequent issue of reprinting at higher prices. E-books currently generate high profit margins as they provide less hassle where inventories are concerned.

Although romance and crime novels have recently experienced a surge in popularity on e-readers, those in favour of good old fashioned print could argue that in a cultural sense, the essence of traditional reading is not easy to convert digitally, there still exists a strong demand for print media and the ad-

vantages of print media are plentiful.

Piracy is an alarming disadvantage of digital media as well as the potential threat of market dominance by firms such as Amazon.

Amazon currently sells 60-70 per cent of e-books in America and is steadily gaining dominance in the market with the emergence of its own romance imprint, as well as signing well known writers, such as Timothy Ferriss.

The reality is that digital media is quickly gaining popularity and will continue to do so in the years to come.

The legitimacy of digital media is not something that all can relate to, but society will gradually adjust to integrate the two forms of media.

JOY SANTIAGO / THE SILHOUETTE

Thirty Years of

TAKE BACK THE

NIGHT

Sisterhood. Strength. Solidarity.

T HURSDAY , S EPTEMBER 15 , 2011 Hamilton City Hall - 71 Main Street

Take Back the Night is a powerful opportunity for all woman-identified folks to reclaim our right to safety and courageously speak out against violence. This year's event will include activities for children, henna tattoos, laughter yoga, t-shirts and buttons, face painting, sign making, music, and, of course, a loud empowered march!

All Women, TransWomen and Children Welcome!

6:30pm - We Gather 7:30pm - We Rally 8:00pm - We March For information or to request ASL interpretation, contact SACHA: 905.525.4573 or sacha@sacha.ca.

Presented by

1:3 Canadian women and 1:6 Canadian men will experience sexual assault in their lifetime.

45% percent of female college and university students say they’ve been sexually assaulted since leaving high school.

The victim and the accused are known to each other in 82% of cases – as friends, acquaintances or family

But… I am not alone!

SACHA (Sexual Assault Centre, Hamilton& Area) is there with 24-hour confidential support, information or accompaniment @

905-525-4162

www.sacha.ca

welcome week review plus contagion • supercrawl hamilton midnight in paris

andex

thursday, september 15, 2011

Senior Editor: Jemma Wolfe Entertainment Editor: Myles Herod Music Editor: Josh Parsons Contributors: Zane Kharas, Cassandra Jeffery

Cover: Ricardo Padilla

in the hammer sept.15

Pearl Jam Copps Coliseum 8:00 p.m.

sept.16

Rosie Flores This Ain’t Hollywood 9:00 p.m.

sept.16

Celtic Thunder Hamilton Place Theatre 8:00 p.m.

sept.17

Two Crown King The Casbah 9:00 p.m.

sept. 18

The Dodos The Casbah 9:00 p.m.

sept.18

Redanda The Casbah Lounge 9:00 p.m.

sept.21

music

Les Breastfeeders This Ain’t Hollywood 9:00 p.m.

theatre sept.21-oct.8

spitz sunflower seeds, broken bike, cheesecake, phoenix dinner, clubs, shameless josh, gza, the rascals, tago mago, crazy drummers, lights as a legal name, bothering first years, jaki liebezeit, the monks, dave thomas as executive editor ‘71, chicken wings, tinhorn, slidewhistle, poutine, crashing computers, dirty jeans, tv

this week

Sherlock Holmes: The Final Adventure Theatre Aquarius

film opening

now

andy’s ticks

Drive Straw Dogs Restless

girl, you thought he was a man but he was a muffin

musc b110

write while you still have time

2012 is on its way

meetings are held on tuesdays at 2:30pm in musc b110 e-mail your submissions to andy@thesil.ca

editorial

thursday, september 15, 2011

the silhouette’s art & culture magazine • D3

resist the corporate attack on the humanities By now I’m sure that most of us have emerged from the alcoholinduced frosh stupor and will soon be forced to face many realities of university life. For some of us, these realities are bound to include endless stacks of books, living off KD for a week and a new understanding of the term “sleep deprivation”.

While these facets of student life will give us plenty to worry about, there is one very important reality of attending university that we must not overlook. This is the very real fact that the university itself, as one of the strongest and final remaining public spheres, is continually threatened by privatization from commercial and political enterprises.

Inevitably, humanities students feel this the hardest.

Over the past decade, the Canadian government has repeatedly displayed a disinterest in increasing the funding for public education. Subsequently, universities are forced to seek financial aid from large corporations in order to remain functional.

As the post-secondary funding continues to be progres-

sively dominated by donations from big business, corporations have an increased say as to where that money may go. Obviously, they would be channelling funds into those faculties which offer the most capitalist-friendly, straight-tothe-workplace programs.

I think it is safe to assume that by virtue of you reading this article, you are someone who gives a damn about arts and culture. Perhaps you have sensitivity towards the humanities or are even a student of them yourself. In either case, you should be angry.

F i r st - ye a r students in the humanities are faced with this problem before they even set foot on campus. Faculties often can only offer a third of the courses listed due to the lack of funding and, subsequently, the lack of professors. Upper-year students are regularly faced with overcrowded

classrooms, abrupt course cancellations and the phasing out of several age-old disciplines.

It seems puzzling that a university would do such a thing.

Traditionally, universities were praised for their strong humanities departments, for the humanities is the study of those disciplines which are most intimately connected to human expression and culture.

Up o n investigation, it becomes clear and evident that in North America the humanities are seen as both a political and economical liability.

In my four years here I have been convinced of little more than that the humanities, more than any other faculty, are the victims of a precise and pinpoint attack. It is becoming increasingly obvious that this attack is more than just a lack of understanding

Such aggressive dismissal of the humanities is symptomatic of a society uncomfortable with the very idea of critical thought itself.

the big tickle

and that many corporations have a vested interest in regulating specific bodies of knowledge.

American conservative thinkers such as Stanley Fish have gone so far as to deem the humanities an ornamental faculty. By this he means that the humanities serve no purpose but the self-satisfaction that they give one whilst engaging with them. They have been reduced to a sort of bourgeoisie pastime, something to do after the work has been done.

Such aggressive dismissal of the humanities is symptomatic of a society uncomfortable with the very idea of critical thought itself. It seems that the last thing that these large corporations want is to help fund a program that encourages students to ask questions, perhaps even questioning the ethical behaviour of the company itself.

The degradation of the humanities must be resisted in order to secure the university as one of the only remaining public spheres in which enlightened critical discussion can take place. As students, we hold the voices from which these concerns must be pro-

jected.

Without such resistance, universities are bound to be absorbed by the consuming politics of neoliberal capitalism and used as a tool to serve only as a means to an end; as job training and a way of perpetuating the system. Certainly, universities were not conceived as institutions that merely serve the purpose of making citizens palatable to the workplace.

The humanities are a compilation of the various ways in which human beings seek to express themselves and are thus an essential component in understanding both who we are and what our relationship with others entails.

Humanities students should no longer fear the nagging uncle who insists that their philosophy degree will merit no financial reward. Instead, it should be proudly proclaimed that money is of no imminent worry when the reward is insight into the complexity and beauty of the human condition.

• Josh Parsons, Music Editor

who was your favourite welcome week band?

compiled by jonathon fairclough & josh parsons

“dragonette”

“stereos” shyla parmar

michael mendonca

“classified” krystina kolitsopoulos

“stereos”

“mother mother” amran wali

trevor cook

D4 • the silhouette’s art & culture magazine

thursday, september 15, 2011

welcome week bands rock first-year audiences in faculty hollow jemma wolfe and zane kharas chat with this year’s frosh talent “In Edmonton, getting ‘froshed’ would be getting paddled. When we heard we were going to [play] frosh week, we thought it would be mayhem!” laughed Alberta native Pat Kordyback, lead singer of Stereos.

Lucky for McMaster students, frosh for us involves games, icebreakers and pajama parades, not initiation. Concerts are another part of frosh that Mac freshmen look forward to.

Welcome Week concerts this year brought another group of talented rockers to McMaster campus, including Stereos. Excited first-years, with the purchase of their Macpass, enjoyed the evening shows, both of which took place in a packed Faculty Hollow.

The energy of the Sept. 6 “Triple Threat” show was unprecedented. After a late start, Chilliwack, B.C. rockers These Kids Wear Crowns opened the evening with a powerful set of songs off of their latest album, Jumpstart.

These Kids Wear Crowns guitarist Josh “Gypsy” McDaniel enthused, “We like playing college campuses; people aren’t necessarily there to see one band, they’re there

to see a bunch of bands so lots of people who wouldn’t normally come to our show, come.”

Stereos next took to the stage, playing a variety of their most popular songs. Their song “Summer Girl” received a particularly excited response. The swelling crowd brought many mentions from the performers, who frequently commented on the size and energy of the student attendees.

When Dragonette took the stage, Faculty Hollow went wild with cheers. They played through a broad selection of their most popular tunes, including “Fire In Your New Shoes” and “I Get Around”. Martina Sorbara, lead singer of Dragonette, was pitchperfect all night and danced around the stage energetically.

Towards the end of their set, the patient crowd was finally treated to a rendition of “Hello”, Dragonette’s popular single and collaboration with French DJ Martin Solveig.

Ironically, Sorbara dropped out of university during her own frosh week.

She explained that she arrived on campus a day late, could not find a parking spot and

immediately turned around and went home.

The lack of car space was all she needed to realize that university was not where she wanted to be. But, she was quick to quip, “stay in school, kids.”

A memorable show was also seen in Faculty Hollow on Sept. 10. After an impressive opening by B.C. indie band Said the Whale, fellow Vancouver-based rock band Mother Mother performed, featuring electric and acoustic solos by frontman Ryan Guldemond. They started with “Chasing It Down,” the funky lead track off their latest album, Eureka.

At one point fans broke into a chant of “You’re hot! You’re hot!” which Guldemond interpreted as “Shawarma? You read my mind! I could actually use a shawarma right now,” before breaking into an acoustic number.

Ali Siadat, Mother Mother’s drummer, is an alumnus of McMaster. “I went here [for mechanical engineering], and Mac was the unveiling of Canada, in my eyes; solid beginning to a wonderful relationship,” he said.

Mother Mother was a tough act to follow, but well-known Canadian rapper Classified took the challenge and ran with it, bringing down the house - or rather the hill with an lively performance opened by up-andcoming Canadian rapper Kayo.

Kayo got the crowd amped up with inspirational lyrics flowing over a smooth beat. With impeccable clarity, powerful stage presence, and respect for his home of St. Lucia, Kayo showed off his “island flair” with humility.

Classified then brought the energy, getting the crowd pumped up on tracks from his latest album, Handshakes and Middle Fingers. Classified was pleased to be playing at McMaster, and said, “[University] gives you more options, it opens up more doors.”

Moving the crowd from start to finish, this year’s Welcome Week bands put on concerts to remember, exemplifying why they are successful in the current music scene and worthy of praise.

F

RICARDO PADILLA / ASSISTANT PHOTO EDITOR

TYLER HAYWARD / SENIOR PHOTO EDITOR

“

“

I’m so impressed with all the kids who come to university and stick it out; I was way too intimidated. Stay in school!”

I write off of life, I talk about what I go through. It’s real stuff that people can relate to. It’s real people shit.”

Matt Vink,

Martina Sorbara, Dragonette

RICARDO PADILLA / ASSISTANT PHOTO EDITOR

“

[During] my frosh week there was actually a concert so it’s cool now to play a frosh week concert.”

These Kids Wear Crowns

STEVE HAYES / SPECIAL TO THE SILHOUETTE

Classified

KRISTI BOLTON / SPECIAL TO THE SILHOUETTE

“

I think that these days the key to success is avoiding the mould and trying to explore various unconventional and innovative methods to gain exposure, especially in writing. Try and dare to be different, in every sense.”

Ryan Guldemond, Mother Mother

TYLER HAYWARD / SENIOR PHOTO EDITOR

D6 • the silhouette’s art & culture magazine

film

thursday, september 15, 2011

gripping horror without a safety release valve Contagion Starring: Laurence Fishburne, Matt Damon Directed by: Steven Soderbergh

HHHHH It has been reported that Contagion will be one of the last films by director Steven Soderbergh.

If, in fact, this is true, we will have lost a significant artist.

With a reputable and varied resume, beginning with his 1989 Sundance breakthrough Sex, Lies and Videotape, Soderbergh’s commercial cache, afforded through the likes of George Clooney and the Ocean‘s 11 series, has accredited him unprecedented freedom and honours within Hollywood.

With Soderbergh now acknowledged as one of America’s most diverse and innovative voices, Contagion’s breadth of cast and catastrophe come as no surprise, just another notch.

As in his Oscar winning Traffic, Contagion balances a dozen storylines and

principal characters with rhythm and realism.

Based on a script by Scott Z. Burns, Contagion concedes its fatal virus plot without hesitation – first surfacing in Macao, then, rapidly infecting the likes of Asia, Europe and the United States via human touch.

Without prologue or explanation, a recurring countdown announces “Day Two” of the epidemic from the first frame with Gwyneth Paltrow, tired and makeup-less, unknowingly transmitting her infection.

Soderbergh’s clinical eye follows her chain of germs like that of a hand sanitizer commercial – with a succession of doorknobs, busy hands and people in motion.

From there on, the film keeps moving, introducing us to a global cast, and an urgent electronic score – emphasizing the importance of time and the speed of this virus’ havoc.

The Center for Disease Control and World Health Organization, led by Laurence Fishburne, Kate Winslet and Marion Cotillard, deploy caseworkers and scientists, only to see the virus mutate, leading to mass deaths and world anarchy.

The film sustains tension as it continually jumps continents, simply naming facts: London, population 8.6 million; Tokyo, population 36.6 million.

Having dabbled in multi-narratives before, Soderbergh borrows from fast-talking television such as CSI to explain the pseudoscience with frightening confidence and viable logic.

Credit for the film’s authenticity should be partly attributed to the astonishing ensemble of familiar faces, where egos are allowed to de-glamorize and expose every wrinkle.

While Kate Winslet pulls off looking capable and knowledgeable as she briefs government officials in how to close schools and cities, it’s Gwyneth Paltrow’s brief appearance that comes off as shocking.

Having succumbed to the virus in front of her husband, played by Matt Damon, early in the picture, her head is sawed open during autopsy, only to have the doctor recoil at the remnants of her diseased brain.

For the most part, though, Contagion sweeps along, almost subsuming the cast to the larger flow of its believable screenplay.

It probes the global political systems in place to cope with such outbreaks, dredging up stats from SARS, AIDS and even the Spanish Influenza outbreak.

It is a film filled with computer screens, phones and video conference calls.

It is as much about the spread of communication, technology and western influence as it is about a virus. So much so, that when Jude Law’s character blogs homeopathic cures claiming to combat the virus, it provokes riots, setting society aflame and turning Contagion into part zombie movie, part pharmaceutical satire.

Refreshingly, the virus doesn’t appear to be an allegory for politics or consumerism, allowing Contagion to simply work as arresting medical fiction, potentially leaving audiences leery of shaking hands, or embracing after exiting the theatre.

If this truly is the beginning of the end of Soderbergh’s career, it’s a shame. This is one of the most quietly distressing thrillers of recent memory. Well, from Hollywood, at least.

• Myles Herod, Entertainment Editor

thursday,september 15, 2011

film

the silhouette’s art & culture magazine • D7

parisian midnight magic

woody allen’s recent rom-com is a bittersweet adventure

Midnight in Paris Starring: Owen Wilson, Rachel McAdams Directed by: Woody Allen

HHHH Woody Allen’s recent directorial adventure, Midnight in Paris, is a mix of nostalgia, Hollywood glamour and idealistic optimism against the backdrop of Paris through the ages. With a choice celebrities, iconic locations and a clever plot, this film is an absolute must-see.

Owen Wilson stars as Gil, a successful Californian screenwriter on vacation with his wealthy fiancée and her snobby family.

Wilson’s performance is the core of this film, and is arguably the greatest of his career.

Gently mimicking Woody Allen’s frenetic mannerisms and scattered dialogue to fantastic effect, Wilson honours Allen’s iconic style of soul-searching wanderer

though his pitch-perfect portrayal of lovable Gil, a man caught between reality and illusion as he tries to write his debut novel.

Gil’s late-night wandering of the Paris streets magically transport him back to Paris in the 1920s – a time he sees as far superior to the present for the great writers, artists and musicians that inhabited it. Gil’s timetravelling adventures bring him into contact with the likes of Earnest Hemingway, Pablo Picasso and F. Scott Fitzgerald. In a small but memorable cameo appearance, Adrian Brody does a particularly amusing job of portraying surrealist artist Salvatore Dali, bringing to life a comical obsession with rhinoceroses.

Wilson and Brody’s performances are complimented by talented female leads.

Rachel McAdams’ supporting role as Gil’s fiancée Inez is a whirlwind of narcissistic negativity – a sour antagonist archetype she hasn’t played with so much skill since her breakthrough role in 2004’s Mean Girls.

Marion Cotillard – ever the fragile

sexbomb – was authentic and heartbreakingly honest as the artists’ muse who captivates the attention of everyone around her, and who makes Gil question his resolve to marry.

Midnight In Paris was not, however, without minor pitfalls. Woody Allen enthusiasts will notice an unmistakable reappearance of a character from his 1982 film A Midsummer Night’s Sex Comedy. Arrogant Professor Leopold has been unmistakably reborn in Midnight in Paris as pedantic Professor Paul (played by Michael Sheen), and while both characters provided laughs in their respective films, Allen’s lack of originality in this part of the plot was surprising and disappointing.

Additionally, the time-travelling science fiction aspect of the film goes a little too far. When Wilson is transported back in time, and then even further back in time, the sequence feels too reminiscent of the recent blockbuster Inception’s dream-withina-dream concept, and provided more confu-

sion than was necessary.

Visual aspects of the film made up for other areas that were lacking. The locations used were a visual treat: from the Louvre to Versailles and quaint cafes to grand hotels, the sets and locations brought a rich feel to the film that cannot be recreated in a studio space. Every detail – music, costumes, and the like – added to Woody Allen’s assertion of Paris as the most beautiful, inimitable place on earth. The constant motif of Paris as more beautiful when it rains is cliché, yes, but also entirely believable.

Allen’s directing sees Paris through the rose-coloured glasses of unapologetic romantic idealism, and it works. I now want nothing more than to go to Paris and walk around at midnight, in the rain.

• Jemma Wolfe, Senior Andy Editor

D8 • the silhouette’s art & culture magazine

music

thursday, september 15, 2011

hamilton on its hands and knees supercrawl forms the centre of hamilton’s artistic hotbed On Sept. 10, citizens of Hamilton were once again welcomed to the annual Supercrawl, a free all-day celebration of arts and culture in the blossoming James Street North district.

With an unprecedented 50,000 attendees, this year’s Supercrawl has certainly set the bar in terms of cultural celebrations in the Hammer.

In case you are new to the city, Supercrawl is the annual culmination of the monthly James Street North Artcrawls that take place on the second Friday of each month. Each year, Supercrawl concludes frosh week, providing the perfect opportunity for a fresh year of students to immerse themselves in the rapidly growing arts community.

While it may be safe to assume that a portion of the crowd was also there for the Canadian Country Music Awards and Locke Street Festival running in conjunction, it is undeniable that downtown was overflowing with an energy not seen in previous years.

The Artcrawl began back in 2006, when James Street North was just beginning to emerge as a cultural hub. The mass purchase of loft space by members of the Mixed Media store allowed artists to rent gallery space in the area at affordable rates. Since then, the area has exploded with artistic activity, reaching its fruition with the Supercrawl.

Stages littered the James Street North neighbourhood, housing a variety of musical acts. Canadian and international talent wowed the ever-growing crowd as reputable acts such as Broken Social Scene, J Mascis, Paley and Francis, Junior Boys and even the McMaster Laptop Orchestra performed.

The presence of visual art at Supercrawl was clearly amplified in comparison to the Artcrawl that took place the night before. An unparalleled amount of artists set up in the streets to display their work.

The streets were also filled with a vast array of large conceptual pieces. The façade of the Brain, a popular bar on the street, was entirely covered with an intricately stitched blanket of yarn, and enormous in-

flatable bodies towered over the crowds at the corner of Cannon Street and James Street.

Typical for any crawl, the neighbourhood also boasted its open-door policy at dozens of galleries. The night featured many of the stable galleries as well as the refreshing roster of first-timers.

A large amount of young artists were offered the chance to host galleries this year at Supercrawl. Recent McMaster graduate Kearon Roy Taylor displayed a number of impressive silkscreen prints on the upper level of the Print Studio, proving that the talent of young artists in Hamilton are something to look out for.

In addition to the visual art and stage shows, it was extremely refreshing to finally see the streets of Hamilton lined with a wide variety of busking acts.

Street performers were offered the chance to display their talent while city officials handed out surveys to help develop policy that would encourage busking in the downtown core.

The public response to the busking was overwhelmingly positive. The buskers were praised for their for the spontaneity and intimacy of their performances while also displaying hope at the potential of revitalizing the urban centre of the city.

Such positive public response to Supercrawl indicates that the artistic energy in the Hammer is far from dissipating. Citizens were reminded of the potential that the small community has in reshaping the entire image of the city itself, both regionally and nationally.

Perhaps other local neighbourhoods can take after James Street and use the potent energy of communal culture to revitalize. Locke Street continues to show much promise. There is no reason why any neighbourhood in Hamilton cannot emulate the success of James Street North.

Such positive public response to Supercrawl indicates that the artistic energy in the Hammer is far from dissipating

• Josh Parsons, Music Editor