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ARGOSY
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Members of the Gryphon Trio performed at Mount Allisons Brunton Auditorium on November. 25. It was the last performance of the 2011 Performing Arts Series. The Series kicks-off in 2012 with pianist Simon Docking on February 4 in Brunton.
Argosy/Rosanna Hempel
Julia McMillan
Arts and Literature Editor
True artistry is recognized in any form. Last Friday evening, the spectators at the Brunton Auditorium were fortunate to witness the astounding skill of Toronto based chamber group, The Gryphon Trio. It was clear to all in attendanceregardless of musical background that we were experiencing a rare and masterful musical performance. The Gryphon Trio performed as part of the ongoing Performing Arts Series presented by the university. The internationally renowned trio features David Parker on Piano, Roman Borys playing cello, and Annalee Patipatanakoon on violin. The three performers each have distinct on stage personalities that immediately captivated the audience: Parker is intelligent and powerful, Patipatankoon dramatic and regal, and Borys animated and intense. However,
despite the three seemingly differing personas, the performers play as one indistinguishable entity. Their body movements, breathing, and eye contact all indicate precise and well-practiced communication that shines through in the caliber of their music. The ensemble is perhaps most well-known for their rendition of Beethovens works. Upon hearing their performance of Beethovens Piano Trio No. 3 in C minor (Opus 1, No. 3), it is no surprise why. The colour-tones required to perform the Beethoven were of a large variety; the ensemble mastered everything from the broken and tuneful sections of gallant style music to the lamenting largo sections in the second movement. The groups interpersonal communication was also especially impressive. With their synchronized breathing, and flowing body movements, it seemed as though they were dancing both with the music and with each other. Next was a three movement work by Andrew Staniland called Solstice Songs. The piece was composed for The Gryphon Trios inaugural Listen
Up! outreach program that engages entire communities in a collaborative arts creation process. The piece was built upon a series of extremes: piano vs. fortissimo, slow vs. fast, broken vs. legato. The continually building and resolving tensions within the music were emphasized by the use of extended techniques. The audience saw examples of timbre, wherein Parker reached into the piano to pluck and pound different strings, tremolo, which is the quick buzzing of the violin and cello, and pitch bends. The performers precise and entertaining execution of the piece, combined with its unique and exciting composition made Solstice Songs my favourite piece of the evening. Following a brief intermission, the trio returned to the stage with a rousing rendition of Anton Arenskys Piano Trio No.1 in D minor. Arensky dedicated the piece to his teacher, Russian cellist Karl Davidoff, and it is undoubtably one of his most celebrated works. The piece was unpredictable, yet romantic, with a distinctly Russian aesthetic. The music swelled with
anger and drama throughout the first and third movements, but was damped by delicate and playful melodies within the middle of the piece. The pinnacle of the piece was in the fourth movement when the music fully erupted into a wave of raw emotion, with the return of themes from previous movements. It was an effective way to tie the entire performance together. As a product of an instant standing ovation from the audience, the Trio graced the stage once again to perform an encore featuring a powerful, colourful Spanish Tango. Needless to say, the crowd left Brunton both satisfied and inspired after the Gryphon Trios concert. The group is truly one of Canadas most valuable chamber music ensembles, and the only complaint I have is that there should have been more people in attendance to witness such a performance. If students knew that chamber music could be so riveting, the Gryphon Trio would have (and should have) drawn a large enough crowd to fill Convocation Hall.
Fourth- year student Rebecca Dixon was announced as the fiftieth Rhodes Scholar from Mount Allison University this past Saturday, and will be heading off to Oxford to pursue graduate studies next September. After meeting with the Atlantic Regional Selection Committee for the Rhodes Trust in Halifax on Saturday afternoon, Dixon received the news that shed been awarded the scholarship later that evening. I was speechless for a minute or so, said Dixon. I let out a pretty loud scream once I got off the phone with the Secretary for the Maritimes. I had to write some information down during the call, and if I didnt, I wouldve been doubting that it ever happened.Dixon commented on the support of her parents throughout the process. My parents have always been very encouraging and supportive of everything Ive wanted to do. Whenever I came up with a project or idea, theyve always given me the confidence I need to give it a try. Her parents showed their excitement, flying down from Ottawa to celebrate with Dixon after hearing about the news. They were so excited and wanted to share that with me, so they decided Saturday night at 1 am to look up flights, and then fly down and surprise me, states Dixon. They showed up Sunday afternoon. My roommates and boyfriend were plotting all morning on how to get them here without me knowing. Pursuing an International Relations honours with a double minor in Spanish and Geography, Dixon is the co-coordinator of Mt. As Rights and Democracy, Sentinel Project for
DIXON, PAGE 4
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Read about what Mt.A students feel should be the Universitys New Years Resolutions. FEATURES, PAGE 7
Basketball win
Mountie Womens basketball earned a pair of victories in their recent games. Find out more! SPORTS, PAGE 27
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THE
Independent Student Newspaper of Mount Allison University thursday december 1, 2011 volume 141 issue 12
Published since 1875 Circulation 1,800
62 York Street W. McCain Student Centre Mount Allison University Sackville, New Brunswick E4L 1E2
THE ARGOSY is published by Argosy Publications, Inc, a student run, autonomous, apolitical not-for-profit organization operated in accordance with the province of New Brunswick.
December 1, 2011
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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF John Brannen argosy@mta.ca NEWS Rachel Gardner argosy@mta.ca FEATURES Anissa Stambouli argosy@mta.ca SUBMISSIONS AlexMacDonald argosy@mta.ca ARTS & LIT. Julia McMillan argosy@mta.ca
ENTERTAINMENT Anna Robertson argosy@mta.ca SCIENCE & TECH Shawn Seeley argosy@mta.ca SPORTS & FITNESS Rob Murray argosy@mta.ca HUMOUR Geoff Hutchinson argosy@mta.ca ONLINE PREVIEW Geoff Campbell argosy@mta.ca
With just over a quarter of the NHL season complete, it is safe to say that the 20112012 edition of the Toronto Maple Leafs are substantially improved from the team that Brian Burke inherited in November of 2008. After what can best be described as a series of unmitigated disasters over the past several seasons, this Leafs team holds a glimmer of promise for the long-suffering and oft-ridiculed Leafs Nation. With slow but resolute progress towards a seat at the table in the post-season, Burke has built a surprisingly resilient team which has finally started living up to the lofty expectations prescribed by the followers of this once-proud franchise.
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PRODUCTION MANAGER Susan Rogers argosy@mta.ca COPY EDITORS Audrey Bagnell, Kyra Jones, & Laura Gallivan argosy@mta.ca
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ILLUSTRATOR Danica Lundy argosy@mta.ca PHOTO EDITORS Lea Foy & Rosanna Khempel argosy@mta.ca
Anissa Stambouli
Features Editor
Since November 1, moustaches have been spotted across campus on the faces of Mount Allison students and faculty. This no-shaving concept is meant to raise awareness about prostate cancer, and began in Australia in 2003. While socializing over a few beers, the founders of Movember decided to bring the moustache back as a bit of a joke and do something for mens health. However, the original Movember boys began to realize that this joke had a stronger effect than they anticipated, and that the moustache sparked conversation regarding prostate cancer. These Mo Brosmo being the Australian slang for moustachebegan to understand the power of raising awareness. The curious look alone served as an opportunity to spread knowledge of the most common Argosy/RosannaHempel cancer for Canadian men.
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NEWS Carly Levy POLITICAL BEAT Vanessa Million FEATURES Elise Dolinsky ARTS Joel Young
ENTERTAINMENT Taylor Mooney SCIENCE Marc-Alexandre Chartrand SPORTS Wray Perkin Simon Murray
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Mid-air meditations
Anissa Stambouli
Features Editor
I was in the studio of the Mount Allison Fitness Centre when I first saw the amazing, beautiful positions of acro yoga. Two Mt. A students had surrounded themselves with mats and a laptop containing Youtube instructional videos. The pair then proceeded to arrange themselves in challenging positions I had only ever seen in Cirque du Soleil. Acro yoga is a usually two-person, hybrid method of exercise, combining the meditation and spiritual contemplation of yoga, the dependable strength of acrobatics, and the loving kindness of Thai massage. Though the physical demand can be strenuous, the activity itself offers many benefits. Both yoga and acrobatics require a being in the moment mentality. Bringing the two practices together allows the partners to experience harmony with themselves, each other, and the divine. The activity is a fun and fulfilling approach to bonding with your partnerplatonic or romanticand experiencing an intimate trust in oneself and others. There are seven main approaches to acro yoga, including circle ceremony, asana, partner flow, Thai massage, therapeutic flying, inversions and spotting, and partner acrobatics. Each focuses on achieving a different element offered by acro yoga. Though acro yoga calls for skills acquired through experienced yoga practice, flexibility, and more, it offers beginner-friendly activity as well. The circle is an ancient symbol of unity and continuation. In the circle ceremony, individuals are invited to come together as a group; to move, breathe, and exist as one. This mutual vulnerabilitythe opening up of the self and sharing with others of the circlecreates a harmonious atmosphere of trust.
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The Argosy is the official independent student journal of news, opinion, and the arts, written, edited and funded by the students of Mount Allison University in Sackville, New Brunswick. The opinions expressed herein do not necessarily represent those of the Argosys staff or its Board of Directors. The Argosy is published weekly throughout the academic year by Argosy Publications Inc. Student contribution in the form of letters, articles, photography, graphic design and comics are welcome. The Argosy reserves the right to edit or refuse all materials deemed sexist, racist, homophobic, or otherwise unfit for print, as determined by the Editor-in-Chief. Articles or other contributions can be sent to argosy@mta.ca in microsoft word format, or directly to a section editor. The Argosy will print unsolicited materials at its own discretion. Letters to the editor must be signed, though names may be withheld at the senders request and at the Argosys discretion. Anonymous letters will not be printed. Comments , concerns, or complaints about the Argosys content or operations should be first sent to the Editor in Chief at the address above. If the Editor-in-Chief is unable to resolve a complaint, it may be taken to the Argosy Publications, Inc. Board of Directors. The chairs of the Board of Directors can be reached at the address above.
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NEWS
Vanessa Million
Political Beat Writer
The Numbers
$3400
$7000
Sprouting 7 Campaign
$1.3 million
NEWS
December 1, 2011
argosy@mta.ca
On November 29, Sheila-Watt Cloutier spoke at Convocation Hall, the result of a semester of working with the Arctic Environmental Change class. Watt-Cloutier was jointly nominated with Al Gore for the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize for her work in bringing a human rights aspect to the issue of climate change.
A forty-year-old man was stabbed to death in Windsor, Ontario on Thursday. This is the first homicide in Windsor since September 2009. Police in Windsor reported to the press that a thirty-year-old male acquaintance of the departed faces murder charges for this crime.
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FEATURES
without making a mess. 6) Add the flour first, along with the baking powder, salt and flax. Then add the pecans and use a spoon to press them into the sides so that they show through. Add the sugar, then chocolate, then the chocolate chips. Seal jar tightly. 7) Make the card. Make a rectangle big enough to fit the text. Fold it in half and punch a hole in the upper left side. 8 ) Besides a personal note to the receiver of the gift, dont forget to write: Double Chocolate Pecan Cookies: Mix with: 1/3 cup vegetable oil, 1/4 cup soy milk, 1 teaspoon vanilla. Roll into 1 inch balls. Place on parchment lined baking sheets. Flatten into 1 1/2 inch discs. Bake for ten minutes at 350 F. Makes twenty cookies. 9) Slide the ribbon into the hole you punched and make sure its secure. Wrap ribbon around the lid and affix it with a safety pin. The card should be dangling a few inches. 10) Stick a few silver stud stickers on the jar letters, and the card. Youre done! Make sure to pad it really well if youre mailing it. InternetPhoto/PostPunkKitchen
Joel Young
Arts and Literature Writer
This idea was inspired by cookbook author Isa Chandra. Her recipes are crazy wonderfulthey are perfect for both those who appreciate food as an art, and those who simply eat for sustenance. This is more of a craft than a recipe, and a wonderful gift idea--especially for recipients who live too far away to receive fresh cookies in the mail. 1) Gather your ingredients. 2) Wrap jar one inch from the bottom and 2 inches from the top with stickers. You can make your own strips with some printed paper and a glue stick. 3) Cut out letters from magazines to spell out C-O-O-K-I-E-S 4) Place the K first. Because its the middle letter it will give you more control in where the other letters are going. Use a glue stick to completely coat the backs of the cut out letters, and stick them firmly in place. Rub them to make sure they stay put. 5) Fill the jar. Make a funnel out of rolled paper to get your ingredients in
Gotta Have:
1 cup all-purpose flour tsp baking soda tsp salt 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 2 tsp ground flax seeds cup roughly chopped pecans cup sugar cup chocolate chips
Supplies:
A clean empty jar and lid, enough to hold 3 cups of dry ingredients. Ribbons Glossy magazines A used card or stock paper with a blank side. A small safety pin A hole puncher Glue stick Sticker strips (optional)
InternetPhoto/The Guardian and this peaks at the start and end of each semester. Although the fact that many students travel in order to be with their families for the break will not likely be compromised in the near future, the environmental footprint of travel is something that we should all be aware of. Alternatives such as carpooling, taking the bus, or taking the train instead of a personal vehicle or an airplane all merit consideration when making travel plansas well as the idea of travelling less often. In terms of travel that is tracked by the institution, the Financial Services department, using the Clean Air Cool Planet Calculator," carried out the 2009-2010 and 2010-2011 carbon footprint calculations. Information was entered into the program, such as method of transportation and distance, in order to assess how much greenhouse gas emissions were associated with the mobility of the Mt. A community. Employee travel, such as going to conferences and trips related to research or networking, accounted for approximately 860 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide each year. According to the Environmental Protection Agency website, this is on par with burning 4.7 railcars worth of coal. Team travel came to fifty-five metric tonnes in 2009-2010, which decreased to thirty-one metric tonnes the following year. However, the field trips category showed an increase from 207 to 314 metric tonnes, which is equal to consuming an extra 250 barrels of oil. As awareness of our carbon footprint grows, other transportation methods are being sought; another method for reducing the carbon footprint are virtual means of communication, such ask Skype, which serve as an alternative to regularly visiting nearby relatives. Financial Services is also looking into the carbon footprint of travel when financial reimbursements are filed, in order to ensure that travellers are considerate the dollar, and environmental, cost of their trip. Overall, it is clear that awareness is key. As we strive to think critically in the classroom about world issues, we should also critically evaluate our own choices and the impacts they have on the environment around us.
Alissa Sylvester Students from Mt. As Arctic Environmental Change class launched a fake iceberg in the universitys Swan Pond on Tuesday. Bearing the words Ice Matters, the stunt was meant to attract attention before Sheila Watt-Cloutiers Not the Time to COP Out lecture on climate change and human rights taking place later that evening. The idea came up as a joke in a class planning session but a group of students decided to go ahead with it. The phrase ice matters was used in reference to the integral role of ice in ensuring the physical and cultural survival of Inuit and the risk they face as this ice melts as a result of climate change.
FEATURES
December 1, 2011
argosy@mta.ca
by Abs of Steel
InternetPhoto/danielmiessler I think that sex is all-around awesome. Its intimate, its wonderful, and its passionate. But maybe this is something I shouldnt comment on as I have never had sex, nor do I want to until Im married. Yes, Ive decided to remain abstinent, but not with any high school pledge or fundamentalist doctrine in my head: its just my personal decision. Tis the season, and the reason for Christmas is due to the most famous birth of all timea delivery by a virgin. This weeks Sex Bomb delves into why Mary and many others have decided to stay pure. 1. I never have to worry about the chance of getting STIs, having unexpected pregnancies, cervical cancer, or deal with the expenses of contraceptives. Theres no added stress of using birth control. No hormonal rampages, odd food cravings, bloating, and other lovely side effects of those magical little pills. Its environmentally friendly! Birth control is linked to increased levels of estrogen in our water streams, which results in an abnormally large female fish population due to estrogen leaking into fish eggs. Its empowering. Ive heard a number of stories from friends who have been pursued by someone, had sex with them, and were subsequently dumped by the pursuer the next day. When there are no expectations for sex in the relationship, its easier to discern which partners want to get to know you for what reasons. No awkward social situations. My roommates never comment on the mattress thumping against the wall, the ohs and ahs coming from the shower, and Ive never had to worry about my parents finding condoms amongst my things. Best of all, theres no unmentioned white elephant in the room after a break up, when two people who have seen each other naked decide to go their separate ways. While some use the argument that premarital sex allows you to test drive the car before you buy it, the social phenomenon known as the cohabitation effect indicates that this argument may not be as solid as it seems. A number of studies have been released, one by the University of Denver, indicating that couples who decide to live together, or cohabitant, without marital commitment, are prone to experience more negative communication between each other and more physical aggression; also lower relationship adjustment, confidence, and dedication. There is also indication that cohabitation leads to higher levels of insecurity in the other partners attachment, and more symptoms of depression and anxiety. It is important to note, however, that the studies indicated that cohabitation is rarely the result of a moral decision against the institution of marriage, but rather of testing a relationship. I have friends who are living together and are unmarried because they do not believe in the institution of marriage; yet they have as happy a relationship as many married couples. I also know people who were married but their marriage ended in disaster. Theres also, to top that off, the parents--such as mine, who have been together for three decades and are still very much in love. Sex will never fail to be orgasmically fantastic. We all have different standards, faiths, and beliefs guiding our decisions. For many, marriage tends to be the time when you make a clear and public commitment to remain with your partner, and so sex is saved for after those vows are made. But more than anything else, its important to know why youre making a particular decision in your sex life: once you understand whats guiding your decision, stand true to who you are and what you feel is important to you. Our sexual lives are certainly different, and what works for one person is not necessarily what works for another. 6.
Argosy/JanelleBelayea
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money raised would go to those in the importance of uniting in a stand need. against inequality: Its unjust not to The Occupy movement has spread be caring, he said, [yet] the majority remarkably fast since Adbusters, a of Canadians have jobs and couldnt Canadian activist group, initiated care less about income inequality and it just over two months ago in New unemployment. York City. Over 1,500 cities across the There was much discussion of globe have taken part in the protest, economic theory at the event, along making it impossible for governments with moral and ethical issues. The to ignore. While participants in the issue of police involvement in the protests range from academics, to the Occupy movement was another homeless, to celebrities, they all have hot topic, especially the incident the common goal that occurred at of fighting rising the University of income inequality California in Davis, Its unjust not to and the role of where a police be caring [yet] the wealth in politics. officer peppermajority of Canadians Many passionate sprayed a group of have jobs and couldnt Occupy Wall student protesters. care less about Street supporters income inequality and This act inspired were present at backlash across unemployment. the START event North America, to express their and a number of opinions, but quite Dr. Frank Strain Internet sources a few people also Mt.A Economics centred on the came to learn about Professor incident have been the movement. created. It seemed that At Occupy Occupy Sackvilles goal was to simply Sackville there was also much debate provide a forum for discussion on the on whether these Internet memes issue, and they succeeded in attracting are making light of an oppressive a wide variety of people. situation, or just spreading the word International students and about the Occupy movement. community members were in To learn more about the Occupy attendance, as were faculty members movement, visit www.occupywallst. Bill Evans and Dr. Frank Strain. org, or get connected with Oxfam Mt. Strain, an economics professor, A by emailing oxfammountallison@ gave an opening address that stressed gmail.com. Argosy/JanelleBelayea
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Argosy/Lea Foy rather then what could be maintained. In particular, many issues regarding facilities and locations around campus were voiced. Fourth year student Graham Wilbur said that the university should focus more on improving resources offered at the library; particularly regarding the librarys facilities. Wilbur commented, It is arguably the place where most students spend their time . . . and yet maintenance to its facilities seem to go unnoticed. In addition to the library, those students surveyed made a point to include in their resolutions the general day-to-day upkeep of the campus; the icy slope beside Avard Dixon was an example of an area that didnt, and isnt, receiving enough attention, according to third year student Maria DiCarlo. There was also a focus on issues relating more to the administrative side of the university, and how Mt. A might resolve to continue improving throughout the coming year. DiCarlo addressed the Residence Assistant program when voicing her resolution: I think it is important for there to be RA debriefing at the end of the year . . . [it will] help to close off the year with an examination as to what worked and what didn't. It would give a chance to the RAs to really speak from experience. Such debriefing suggested by DiCarlo would help to accumulate a comprehensive base of knowledge which could be used to further
Friday
Friday, December 2nd, 2011, 8:00 pm Mt. A Universitys Department of Music presents the Mt. A Symphonic Band Directed by James Kalyn andMount Allison Jazz ensemble, directed by Linda Pearse. The event is being held at Convocation Hall. For additional informtion contact 506-3642374 or music@mta.ca.
Saturday
David Myles with Banded Stilts will be performing at the Vogue Theatre, Saturday, December 3rd, 7:30 pm. Please join us for an intimate evening of folk music at the Vogue and warm your little toes up. $15 Advance Tickets available at Thunder & Lightning Ltd., 6 Ford Avenue or online at Ticketpro Starry Sackville, The Moon, Dunn 108, December 3, 7:00 p.m. Come join Louise Edwards and Angus Findlay for a public lecture on the Moon. Afterward, you will get a chance to view the Moon and other celestial bodies at Mount Allison Universitys Gemini Observatory!
Christmas Collegium, Music Conservatory Foyer, December 5, 4:00 p.m. Christmas Collegium, featuring students and faculty of the department of Music. Admission is free
Monday
Wednesday
National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women, Owens Art Gallery, December 6, 6:30 p.m. An opportunity for Canadians to reflect on the phenomenon of violence against women in our society. If you would like to speak or participate with music, performance, etc., for the event please contact Toni Roberts (troberts@mta.ca or 2159). Mount Allison GIS Open House, Avard Dixon 115, December 6, 12:00 p.m. 1st Annual Mount Allison GIS Open House, from noon to 3:00 p.m. Students from Dr. Lieskes Advanced GIS classwill present their term projects, and J. Bornemann and C. Tardif will be onhand to talk about GIS research. For more information: http://arcgis.mta.ca/AdvGIS-2011_ v2.pdf
Tuesday
Cinema Politica American Radical: The Trials of Norman Finkelstein The Wu Centre, December 7, 7:30 p.m. American Radical is the probing, definitive documentary about American academic Norman Finkelstein. Mt. A Advent Organ Reflections Wednesday, December 7th, 2011, noon Advent Organ Reflections, Gayle h. Martin, organ, at the University Chapel, 63A York
Have you accumulated fines this semester? You can wipe your slate clean by bringing in items for the Sackville Food Bank to the Library (1 item = $2) Starts Dec. 5.
Freedom to hate
OP/ED
December 1, 2011
argosy@mta.ca
Landlords
to live off-campus it can be a totally overwhelming process and choosing the right landlord can be a difficult. Recently, a friend of mine had some issues with their landlord (who is also a professor) which has caused them extreme distress. When they signed the lease they did not know that their landlord was a professor and imagine their surprise when they found out they had, said professor in a class the next semester. Everything would have been fine however, after extensive issues with the building and the co-signing landlord, said student wanted to move out. As any student could imagine the thought of moving out affecting how they were treated by that professor in that class next semester would have been very concerning. In fact it was so concerning that the student transferred out of the class. All I can say is lucky that they had the option to do so! What if this class was necessary to graduate or complete a degree? Professors need to be aware that if they choose to be a landlord they hold two positions of power over their tenants and students which in my opinion should mean that they should be held to higher standards then the average landlord so that students can feel safe signing a lease AND comfortable going to class. Concerned Tenant and Student
InternetPhoto/Advocate
national list of diseases, and with a population that is nearly 95% Roman Catholic it is, in general, a hostile environment for many gays who call the country home. But Poland is not the only European nation in the news lately for taking a step backward with homosexual rights; a recent ruling in Russia has made it illegal for homosexuality to be discussed in schools. Although thousands around the globe, including the US State Department, signed a petition against its implementation, the bill was passed. The bill is an unsettling reminder of the surprisingly large community of pro-fascists in Russia and their apparent strong hold on the government. This new law, which has been described by LGBT activists as nothing short of medieval barbarity, is an eerie example of the ever present cause that is the back and forth struggle to maintain equal rights for all. Based on the world we live in today, theres no doubt that its easy for us to forget how far weve come in the many facets of human rights. However, there are always instances when societies take a step backward. When this happens, it is discouraging, but it also reminds us that there is still a cause worth fighting for. There are small battles won, and lost, this being a prime example of the latter, but as long as there are close-minded people in this world, there will always be a struggle. It is certainly quite astonishing to many that these advanced nations have disgraced themselves by allowing such bigotry to have a place in their society, but as long the moral agents of the world continue to believe and practice love and acceptance, hatred will never prevail.
Sackville as most students have experienced a less than ideal landlord. This is a large problem in itself however I would like to focus on an issue with larger implications. The professors of Mount Allison are unquestionably role models and mentors for students which is why I decided to write in. When a student begins to look for a place
Airline Security
Security Authority (CATSA) stopped him. Going through his school-ridden backpack (noting he did not empty it before we left) security pulled out three serrated knifes, five forks and a bottle of water; all of which had been inside prior to leaving Halifax. Their unbeknownst presence to either of us, was not a problem when CATSA confiscated these items, it was more so the question of security. With a so called standardized security scanning system nation-wide, how did this happen? While this may come as a slight shock, this is the second time I have known someone to pass through security at Halifax with items that are considered by CATSA to be dangerous. The Red Pass system allows airport workers to pass through security quickly and efficiently. I have a friend who works with horses and also in the airport. Coming straight from the barn, she did not empty her purse, and passed without so much as a second glance through security with two horse tranquilizers in her possession. So, what is the reason? Do we look like harmless citizens? Yes, Maritimers are known for their friendliness and hospitality, but really? The reason why we have security measures is because you never know exactly who will try and infiltrate the system and wreak havoc in the airspace. Step up your game CATSA Halifax, or you might be finding yourself in a bit of a sticky situation. Concerned Traveller
During a recent trip to Ottawa, my boyfriend casually packed his carry on, not emptying his school bag, just throwing in what he needed. We got to the Halifax Airport, passed through security without a hitch and were on our way. The weekend passed and it was time to return. Not having really touched his bag the entire trip, one would assume he would have no problems getting through security, well, we were wrong. The Canadian Air Transport
To see this weeks article from Arrr-gosy Correspondent James Wilson, and letters to the editor about the memorial library go on-line to www.argosy.ca
A memorial to one? Are you serious? Last week, the op/ed section of the Argosy ran an illustration of the Memorial Library with the words a memorial to 73 under it and the new Fine and Performing Art building with a memorial to 1?. I am confused as to how I am supposed to read this illustration. Am i supposed to assume that the new building will act as a memorial to one specific person? And if so, who is it? In that case, the graphic is uninformed at best, and blatantly ignorant at worst. I would like the illustrator to say this to the ninety BFA students currently crammed into studio spaces that, when added together, roughly amount to the size of the Wu Centre, and the thirteen Fine Arts Majors that are often not even granted studios due to the lack of space. This new building will be
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Up in smoke
A case for cannabis
John Trafford
Argosy Columnist
Ill come right out and state it: I voted Conservative in the past federal election. The remaining three national parties were all unappealing and Harper looked to be the only reasonable choice at the time. I like some of the initiatives that the Harper government has undertaken and I dont believe that the Prime Minister is the bogeyman, but the actions of the government sometimes make me second-guess my vote. In our increasingly open and accepting world I find it remarkable that Government of Canada wishes to strengthen penalties for substances like cannabis. I suspect that I may not be taking a radical view when I say that a war against drugs like cannabis is a complete waste of time. The Harper governments position on the issue of increased jail time for cannabis production and trafficking are reminiscent of the senseless attempts by governments to limit the consumption of alcohol during prohibition. Legalization of cannabis is something that I believe is only logical when people recognize the substance for what it is. I challenge anyone to think of a death that was directly caused as a result of cannabis consumption. Few are able to cite a fatality due to cannabis usage, but nearly everyone can think of someone who has died because of alcohol.
Polymer, PVC, aluminum and fibre optics all have something in common; they are all material options for the modern Christmas tree. I grew up in a fairly simple household; Christmas was not about the presents but about the time that we got to go out as a family to celebrate the holiday. One of my favourite memories from my childhood Christmas was when all of us would trek out into the snow to cut down a tree. Many of my friends would have trees up in November or early December, but not us MacDonalds, we wouldnt have our tree up until at least the 20th, strung with popcorn and cranberries. Last year, for the first time ever I experienced the plastic Christmas tree. Aside from the benefit of no pine needles, I was not a fan. The plastic tree is aesthetically perfect, and that perfection is somewhat discomforting. Much like the people I sometimes see in the world, with perfect teeth, blonde hair and blue eyes, and surgical enhancements that are just a little too obvious, I was not interested. There is true beauty in our imperfections, rather than our attempts to create a mould of
Argosy Photo/Lea Foy idealized beauty. The fake tree versus real tree argument is the epitomy of that argument. The fake tree is embracing our personal insecurities and desire for a mass-produced, and uniform aesthetic perfection, while the real tree is about embracing our imperfections and celebrating our unique individuality. Some of my environmentally conscious friends will be resistant to cutting down trees, but I say go for it and while youre doing you can always donate to wonderful non-profits or charitable groups like Community Forests International where $1 donated helps go towards planting five trees. In most provinces every person over nineteen years old is entitled to cut down a single Christmas tree, so I encourage you to grab your axe, get out there and get chopping. Rather than spend $100 on a new fake tree at Canadian Tire, get some exercise, spend some time with your family and go chop a nice pine or fir and embrace the real world, not the mass-produced, plastic world of fake Christmas.
Argosy Photo/Lea Foy Thousands of people die every year because of a perfectly legal substance, but a natural plant that has had no deaths directly attributed to it is illegal. Marijuana is certainly not a beneficial substance, but it is not the devil that many conservative politicians make it out to be. The law has been improperly focusing attention on the prohibition of cannabis when it could do more about other, more dangerous problems. Cigarettes, motor vehicles, and Big Macs are more likely to shorten ones life, but the law does not prohibit them. Many things in life are not healthy, but no government has the right to limit an adult citizens ability to consume a substance based on the damage it may cause to the individual. The Conservatives need to begin to look forward to a more progressive drug policy and not backwards to the past. Harper is supposedly an advocate for individual liberty, but in this issue he is more conservative. It is ironic to see Canada enter an age where two members of the same gender can receive the marriage equality they deserve, but everyday Canadians cannot use a recreational drug that causes substantively less damage than alcohol. What the Conservatives need to realize is that in a time of fiscal restraint, police time is a valuable resource and shouldnt be wasted trying to stamp out cannabis when these resources could be better used fighting real dangers to the Canadian public. The Conservatives will likely continue in their campaign against cannabis for the length of their majority government. Canadian Members of Parliament need to wake up to the reality that as they have an evening drink, they are doing more harm than an evening toke. Ultimately, cannabis is not healthy, but government has no right to regulate the use of such a substance that is nothing in comparison to drugs like heroin. The Conservatives may not see their error of their ways by the next election, but theyll certainly see my support for them end if they cannot clear the smoke from their eyes.
Forget that cute guys name at the bar? Did somebody make your day? Wanna shout out your meal hall crush? Send in your missed to missed@mta.ca
Dear Ash Ketchum: I saw you with your hat in Gracies on Monday! But wheres Pikachu? PokeFan To that good looking House Staff reppin Campbell: I could not have asked for a better team. Thank you for everything you all do, you are all awesome. We have made it half way, heres to an incredible semester. Meet you at sassys. Love the girl in 125. Dear Rain Dancer, I wrote my letter to Santa the other day. All that I asked for was a pigmy goat, and you. Love, your little friend. Dear girl in the front row of CHEM 2111, Goggles are for skiing, not for everyday wear. To my eccentric but ever so wonderful MACF Cuthbertson buddy, Have a Merry Christmas in PEI hope all your New Years wishes come true! Dear Arctic Class, You cook a fine brunch. Thanks for making the semester so enjoyable and putting on an epic lecture. Dear Mountie Swimmer, Damn girl, you make me Byrne with desire. Dear Hutch, Im so happy to be eating for two these days. I owe it all to you. I look forward to meeting your mother. Sincerely, your honey bunches of oats. PS, We need another box of Honey Bunches of Oats.
MONDAYS
Poetry Short Fiction Script Creative Nonction Photography
Submit all written work to: 7mondays@gmail.com All photographic submissions to: Fine Arts Dept. Ofce (hard copies or on a disk 300 DPI .tiff format, 5X7) ALL WORK DUE JANUARY 7th, 2012
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HUMOUR
How To Play: First: find yourself some kind of marker. This can be a coin, or some rocks, or grapes, or candies, or the pieces of your shattered soul that you picked up from the floor, after you got the mark back on your final paper.
Second: Whenever you observe someone on this list, place the marker on the square. If youre sitting with a friend, you must submit to their judgement on each individual you choose to fulfill the square. This prevents you from cheating, and from being a douche unnecessarily.
If you get 5 in a row, YOU WIN! Congratulations! Bring your completed card to the Argosy office for a high-five!
12 HUMOUR
December 1, 2011
argosy@mta.ca
HOLIDAY
TRIVIAL TRIVIA!
1. What is the name of Scrooges dead business partner? 2. What ocean is Christmas Island in? 3. In which authors novel is it always winter but never Christmas? 4. Santa Claus is based on which medieval Saint? 5.Which department store created Rudolph, the Rednosed Reindeer? 6. Who invented the Christmas Cracker, and when?
CRYPTOQUOTE!
In this quote, each letter had been switched with a corresponding letter of the alphabet. For example, ABC becomes TUV. Get it? Good. Here we go!
Answers!
X dbkqibjxk fp pljblkb tel zxk mixv qeb xzzloaflk, yrq albpkq. Qlj Txfqp
Solve the quote, bring it into the Argosy Office, and be entered to win an ACTUAL prize from the Humour Editor!
bobpickle chronicles
The
By Lake
1. Jacob Marley 2. Indian Ocean 3. C. S. Lewis 4. Nikolaos of Myra 5. Montgomery-Ward 6. Tom Smith, 1847
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HUMOUR
The Exciting Conclusion of: The Fantastic Adventure of Will and Fred!
Heather Baglole
Argosy Correspondent
AAAAAAAAHHHHHHHH Were all gonna di- Dear baby Jesus please save our sou- The three men screamed as the car shot over the ridge. For a time they were suspended in mid-air, and they felt as if they were moving in slow motion as they watched themselves fall into the dark abyss. All three closed their eyes, said their prayers and thenTHUNK! A huge jolt shook the three, with Freds head hitting the ceiling. All the men were momentarily dazed, then eventually they sat up and poked their heads out the windows, only to discover that they had landed on a huge pile of potatoes? What the what the hell is this all about? exclaimed the first officer, as Fred and the second officer just sat there dumbfounded. Fred tested his door, and was able to shove it open, sending a shower of potato peelings cascading down the potato mountain. He thought for a moment, taking it all in. Then it hit him. This must be where they dump the peels from the MTA farm potatoes! he said amazedly. God, we students can really pack them in its only the end of first term! I just dont understand where did the others go? asked the second officer. All three looked around, but couldnt find them anywhere. Help! Fred and the two officers looked across the potato hill, but couldnt find where the voice was coming from. Will? called Fred anxiously. Yea! Over here! Fred followed the sound of Wills voice, occasionally tripping over a larger potato peel on his way. Eventually he spotted the green top of Wills hat. Rushing over (and falling into the pile a number of times in his hurry), Fred reached Will, pulling him out of the potatoes and leading him back to the police. Kid, are you the one who was in the car with those men? asked the second officer, looking concerned. The other agreed with his question with a dignified Harrumph. Yes, sir said Will, still clearly shaken. I was just minding my own business when suddenly they grabbed me and shoved me into their car. When the car got close to here, I jumped out trying to escape and ended up in this potato heap. They stopped just before flying off the ridge and watched you fly off, then drove away. The impact from my fall buried me so far into the potatoes, I couldnt escape! But who were they? asked the first officer. Im not sure I didnt recognize them. I guess well never know They all looked at each other silently, and then the first officer said to the boys, Well, I think you boys can go. Well be spending some time here trying to dig our squad car out of this err the officers scratched their heads and got to work finding more hands for the job. Will and Fred climbed out around the tracks and onto the road. Well that was interesting, said Will, a big grin on his face. Fred just looked at him and smiled, but said nothing. Oh, come on man, you KNOW you had a good time. You wouldnt have had this crazy time without me here you owe me big. Fred just kept on smiling, and wouldnt say anything. The two walked along in silence for awhile. A beautiful night said Fred, and Will expressed his agreement. Fred heard a car behind him, and wondered if the police had managed to get their car out of the potato pile. He turned around and spotted the car that had driven away with his best friend. Ahhh, get down! said Fred, grabbing Will and shoving him into some bushes. Will and sputtered and attempted to get away but Fred held fast. He wasnt letting him go so easy this time. The car slowed down, then pulled to a stop near their bushes. Freds heart began beating very fast what if they were found? What would happen then? Wow, guys, I cannot believe you fell for that, said a familiar voice. GaGarrett? sputtered Fred incredulously. Two voices pealed with laughter as Fred and Will poked their heads above the bushes. There they saw Garrett and Rachel pulling balaclavas off their heads, shaking with giggles. Heat rose in Freds cheeks. You were freaking- and those police- the potatoes!- so brilliant- the two couldnt stop their laughter, and suddenly Will joined in. Freds mouth broke into a smile, and then he too began chuckling, and then he couldnt help laughing in spite of himself. It WAS pretty funny. Come on guys, hop in, well give you a ride, said Rachel, and they sped off into the night. Will turned to Fred with a sheepish expression. So, Fred do you want to go back to res now and study? Ive kept you longer then I was supposed to. Fred was quiet for a few moments, and then he said, No, lets go to Larrys. The car erupted with cheers and Garrett continued on to Uncle Larrys. As they pulled into the parking lot, got out of the car, and walked into the front door, Fred couldnt help thinking to himself: I wonder what other shenanigans well get up to tonight He couldnt wait for the next chapter.
Top Ten: Things to do on an exam when you know youre going to fail anyway.
Taylor Losier
Argosy Correspondent
13
Youve procrastinated for weeks and its the day of the exam. You realize you understand nothing and that theres no way youre going to learn everything in a few hours. What are you going to do? Our suggestion: go out in style. 1. Answer every question with another question. 2. Wait fifteen minutes and then hand it in; make sure to loudly say how easy it was. 3. Staple a twenty dollar bill to your exam sheet. 4. Come up with complicated explanations for why you cannot legally/medically/ religiously answer the questions. 5. Loudly sing the Jeopardy theme song during the entire exam. 6. Change seats every ten minutes. If someone asks what youre doing, tell them the aura in the area is ruining your concentration. 7. Take a nap. 8. Bring a crystal ball into the exam. Stare into it and mutter to yourself when trying to answer each question. You could also bring in tarot cards and incense if you want. 9. Make paper airplanes out of the pages of the exam. Proceed to throw them at the people who look stressed or the even the Professor. 10. Make a scene: either breakdown into hysterics or jump on your desk and scream. Whichever you think is more your style.
14 CENTREFOLD
December 1, 2011
argosy@mta.ca
While the school year may leave pockets of time to procrastinate, exams are often merciless when consuming students time. Its hard to remain focused when classes end and the temptation to celebrate sets in. However, finding the right place to work can make a difference in efficiency and productivity. For those social butterflies, snag a large table in the second basement of the library. Silence is enforced by unspoken rules (and your neighbours glare), but theres room enough to study with friends. The library also has many group study rooms that you can occupy if you arrive early enough. For solitary studiers, the second basement of the library offers a handful of closed in study spaces. Theyre great spots for zoning-in to your work and forgetting all other distractions. The Wallace McCain Student Centre is full of study cubbies on each floor. These hidden nooks have ample table space and outlets for computer chargers, making them a great spot for solitary or group work. In addition, the numerous conference rooms are usually empty, offering large spaces for group projects to meet and discuss ideas, without disturbing others. For those whose studies involve much reading, take some books to the Chapel. Its atmosphere is serene and beautiful, and the place is almost always quiet and empty. Study beneath the stained glass and enjoy the colourful lighting, while trying out a new study space. Bridge Street Caf, Pickles, and the Dancing Dogs Caf all offer free wireless internet and great snacks while studying. If background noise doesnt affect your studying abilities, theyre great spots for enjoying warm drinks on a cold day while prepping for exams. During exam period, take advantage of the extra time and find the study methods that work best for you, in the places that help you focus the most.
Its true. Exams are right around the corne going to be business-as-usual - for others, th of anxiety and stress. Dont panic! Take a dee Argosy help you out. Weve compiled some g you through this demanding time. Read, lea celebrate your first, or yet another semste
We all know that a great cup of coffee can keep you awake... and sane. The Arg have percolated on the below selections to help you in your decision for the be late nights and early mornings of exam studying. They are ranked out of a possib
Tims Hortons
The aroma of this coffee was a little earthy, but earthy in a coniferous forest where the soil would be highly acidic. The flavour was a little bit sour but watery enough that it also went down smoother. Definitely not recommended unless there is no other option. 2/5
Wendys
A fairly neutral ar with a slight must to it, the flavor has of caramel, with a a bite to it. The fla lingers on in the ba your throat and is much on par with th Hortons coffee. 2.25
Circle K (Irving)
The aroma was reminiscent of a delightful gaunt through a Swiss forest. The flavour was spicy in a delightful sort of way that warms your belly on a dark and stormy night. The aftertaste stays with you and leaves you wanting another delightful sip. 3.25/5
Bridge St. Ca
The Sumatran Blend The aroma was sweet and quite not for the faint of h The taste of this co doesnt settle on th of the tongue but ra in the back of the th The dry aftertaste be due to a wate down product. 2.25/
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CENTREFOLD
15
er. For some, this is his is a daunting time ep breath and let The great articles to help arn, study, write, and er under your belt!
1. Bathing yourself in perfume before an exam: its distracting for those writing around you, especially those sensitive to scents. On the same note, it is not appropriate to write an exam with no memory of the last time you bathed. In general, if anyone can smell you within a two-meter radius, you need to change something. 2. Wearing high heels: Nothing is more disruptive, and infuriating, than the sound of heels plodding across a hardwood floor. The inability to walk with any discretion at all seems to be directly related to those who choose to wear heels- not a good combination. 3. Not bringing a hair elastic: spending three hours pushing your hair out of your face is not a good way to spend an exam. Bringing something to tie your hair up for you is a lot easier. 4. Dressing like a piece of garbage: While wearing sweatpants to an exam my be tempting, studies have shown that wearing clothes that make you feel confident can improve your performance on tests. So wear something that makes you feel good about yourself, except for heels. 5. If you arent going to be dressy, at least get dressed: Slippers, pyjamas and a robe are quite comfortable, but theyre really not appropriate for wearing out in public normally, let alone to an exam hall filled with a hundred people. If you really want to communicate how much you dont care about this exam, just make a sign. 6. Dry Clothes: If its sowing, or raining, you might consider bringing a dry sweater or shirt to change into. This is going to make you much more comfortable then something thats half-soaked from the storm outside, and has the added bonus of not smelling like wet dog; those people around you will appreciate it. 7. Dress for an Exam, not the Pub: As weve said, its great to dress nicely, and great to feel good about your outfit. That said, dont dress as if youre headed to a club after the exam. It gives the wrong impression to your professor, and will probably be rather uncomfortable. Try to strike a balance between comfy and professional.
cuppa Joe?
McDonalds
This one is a party in your nose but dont pour it in there... There is a sweetness to this aroma, some may describe it as a floral scent while other would describe it as more of a molasses smell. The taste confirmed the aroma, a frolicking dance of deliciousness in your mouth that has you wanting to come back for more. 3.5/5
gosys own John & Alex est cup of java for all your ble score of 5. Enjoy!
afe
Gracies Cafe
Mexican Morning/ French Roast: The sugary stench emanated from this coffee was thick and caramelly, however the taste was on the sour side. Not the most desirable coffee. Also we sampled some of the French Roast but found that the taste did not differ enough to warrant a separate review. 1.75/5
Hempel
Exam time is always a significant source of stress for students all across Canada, a sentiment echoed at Mount Allison every December and April. While most students will spend what precious hours they have to study either trying to cram (and failing) or worrying about what types of questions will be on the exam, there are several benefits towards taking the time to exercise during exam period. Whether you go for a ten minute run on the treadmills at the Fitness Centre or decide to shoot some hoops, (before the Athletic Centre closes for exams of course,) nothing will set you up for exam success better than exercising. Exercising sets structure in your day. By setting up a schedule and more importantly sticking to it, you will not feel in a pinch when studying for exams. You can also relate your exercising schedule to your studying schedule. This level of preparation, if done far enough in advance will help you set up blocks of time for studying certain subjects, a big help for students with exams back-to-back. Exercising will also allow you to release bottled up energy that will help you when it come to studying long hours for an exam. Students who attempt to pull an all-nighter or plan out a seemingly beneficial ten-hour studying session rarely ever succeed. The main reason behind this is that we are full of energy and cant sit in a chair or on a couch without becoming easily distracted. By running for 1015 minutes, going to a yoga or Zumba class with friends you can release this energy in one burst and then be ready to focus on studying for the rest of the day. The most important thing to take away however is that the cliche of finding balance are not just strong words. Most students wont be happy at either end of the spectrum, but by balancing both studying and exercising effectively, the later can perfectly compliment the former leading to a healthy body and a healthy mind. Argosy/Rosanna Hempel
ENT.
Comedy as commentary
Anna Robertson
Entertainment Editor
On November 18,students at UC Davis gathered peacefully as a part of the Occupy movement. Under the orders of the University Chancellor, campus police arrived to disperse the students. Without the Chancellors consent however, the police then proceeded to pepper-spray the sitting crowd. Other Occupy protests have witnessed similar episodes of violence, with police using batons against protesters at UC Berkley on November 9, and a young woman from Seattle miscarrying after an officer aimed pepper-spray at her face and kicked her in the stomach. The UC Davis incident has been thrust into the public eye, as a video of an officer contemptibly pepperspraying the students at close range went viral days after. In addition, memes of the video have been cropping up on the Internet, depicting the officer, identified as Lieutenant John Pike, pepper-spraying the founding fathers, the statue of liberty, John Lennon, and even Edward Cullen. But is there a point at which political cartoons no longer effectively commentate, and instead trivialize the cause that they seek to defend, and even distance the audience from the brutality of the event? It is possible for the cartoons to frame it in a way that is not effectively communicating any reading in which people would be
December 1, 2011
argosy@mta.ca
The original photo of Lieut. John Pike (Below) has been satirized in many memes, such as above, that have appeared on the web.
Sackville was the last stop for Jon McKiel on his Maritime tour. The lineup at Georges on Saturday night included Corey Isenor and Savid Simmard (above) as well.
a treat now that hes relocated to Halifax. He played mostly new work from his latest album, The Hunting Party. Isenor began the show with a few slower numbers, working up to more fast-paced material. At one point Isenor invited his brother, Carson Isenor -a Mt. A, student, onstage to play with him. The two possess a familial onstage chemistry, and the extra guitar added a pleasant textural layer to the music. Finally, wearing a fuzzy yellow cardigan, Jon McKiel traipsed across Georges small stage and promptly sank into his setlist. The line-up consisted mostly of tunes from his new album, Tonka War Cloud, released
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ENTERTAINMENT
17
Argosy Photo/ Lea Foy From left to right, Joe Charmandy, Keith McFadden, Joel Young and Zach Carriere, are the members of Astral Gunk, and are spreading their brand of gunk-rock through Sackville.
Taylor Mooney
Entertainment Writer
The essentials
Interviewing: Joel Young, Joe Chamandy, Zach Carriere, Keith McFadden In Sackville Young: English at Mt. A Chamandy: Fine Arts at Mt. A Carriere: Sandwich extraordinaire at Pickles/ Part-time student at Mt. A McFadden: Fast food aficionado at Wendys Upcoming shows: December 8 at Pickles Website: http://astralgunk.tumblr.com/
band, and then this summer my new nature of life in Sackville, the band band came to Sackville and played doesnt expect to have a long lifespan. with Noise Hounds. They came and Young explains that this has its played at my house in Montreal, and advantages: it puts pressure on us to then when I moved to Sackville these record. Were recording a full length three guys were the only people I in Januaryand now this is on the knew. In the end, we record, so we have started the band to do itand were because we knew we Its a little dirty. going to work on all played in groups another full-length Sloppy, but somewhat almost immediately, that like similar music. Carriere intentionally sloppy. as soon as we can adds, Originally, we A lot of the songs afford to do it. were going to hijack are able to breathe All members of Joe to the Noise because of the the band write songs, Hounds bassist, and have progressed sloppiness. but then we decide from presenting to keep it separate Joel Young individually written and form the superMember of tunes to each other group. You should Astral Gunk to creating them as really emphasize a group. I think the that we describe fact that we all sing ourselves as a superis my favourite part group, mentions Young ironically, of the band, mentions Young. Its drawing laughter from his band mates. pretty equally split up, but it can be In reference to Sackvilles music weighted on who wrote the song. scene, Carriere notes, its pretty Chamandy sums up the long-term easy to stick out here, and people are ideals of the group: the concept of pretty accepting of different styles the band is that we have a bunch of music. People set the bar high, of songs and a bunch of time to too, adds Young. There are a lot of slack off in school, so we might really good, thoughtful musicians in as well write as many songs and Sackville, and its a pretty tight-knit be as productive as possible in the community. Because of the transient short amount of time that we have.
Familiar Ground is a production from the contemporary Quebecois film movement, focusing on a dysfunctional sibling relationship.
If I could play a show with anyone it would be Daniel Johnson. Wed do an acoustic set, and wed all wear morphsuits and water wings. Wed each have to stand in a little kiddie pool. Someone would have to sit on the drums in a kiddie pool. And hot girls would come and dump water on us and wed mix jello into it. This is the inspired dream-show of Keith McFadden, member of Sackville-based band Astral Gunk. The imaginative show reflects only a fraction of the humour and expression infused in the bands demeanour. Relatively new on the Sackville music scene, Zach Carriere describes Astral Gunks music as being gunk rock. Its not quite punk, its not quite funk, its not quite grunge. Its a little dirty. Joel Young describes it as being sloppy, but somewhat intentionally sloppy. We dont try to be perfectionists. A lot of the songs are able to breathe because of the sloppiness, with Joe Chamandy adding that its an amalgamation of all the stuff we like to listen to without trying to copy anyone. Bands including Dead Kennedys, Minutemen and Fugazi have served as inspiration for Astral Gunk, as well as contemporary musical movements. These include punk, post-punk, American hardcore, eighties hardcore, post-hardcore, and garage rock. Really any kind of leftfield or rock music, notes Chamandy. All of the band members are involved in various other music groups, but came together in September to form Astral Gunk: Zack Carriere and McFadden are both in a band called Noise Hounds, Joe is in a band called the Beatles, and Joel is part of a two-piece group called Money in the Banana Stand. Chamandy elaborates: I went to PEI with my old band and met Joels
18 ENTERTAINMENT
December 1, 2011
argosy@mta.ca
Ryan Guldemond (left) and Jasmin Parkin (right) of Mother Mother performing atThe Manhattan Bar and Grill on Nov. 21 in Moncton.The show was part of their tour across Canada.
from the west coast, so its taken longer to get things feeling feverish, but this tour has be really good in that regard. It feels like all the years of tackling the market has paid off a little bit. Were selling out our shows, there are bigger crowds, and people are really into it. Youve just recently come back from Europe, as well. What was it like being a Canadian band touring in Europe? It was great, such a new cultural experience for us. I personally had not been to Europe at all, aside from the UK, so in that regard it was eyeopening in many respects. Musically, they celebrate the gig a little bit more fervently than over here. We were
playing in small clubs, and often when youre building up from the bottom in a new market, a small club will come part-in-parcel with a certain lack of enthusiasm on the promoters part, but over there it just seems like everyone is so for the music. That was something we were quite taken by. Speaking of small venues, this is probably one of the smaller ones that you would play at. Does that change your dynamic? Its familiar wherever you go. Youre still the same band, youre playing the same guitars, and you just try to strike a chord with a person or a group of people. The recipe is so familiar; we just try to focus on those fundamental
elements and let not the size or environment sway our intentions. You have an amazing talent to create these really vivid images within your lyricsone of your lyrics from Stand is nominated for a Bucky award for best lyric. How do you come up with a line that fits into a song so well? The thing about a good lyric is that when you hear it or write it, you know its good because it hits you in a certain way. It sparks this feeling of utter relatability, or dramatic or comedic value if its good, and if it has the right rhythm and the right punch line, its just an undeniable feeling. I tend to take a long time to refine the lyrics.
Usually there will be a theme that is alive from the beginning, but then injecting different words and different synonyms and paraphrases with the same theme can take a long time its a process that Ill pull my hair out doing a lot of the time. At the end, I never finish a song and regret any Vanessa Blackier is the Programming Director of CHMA, Music Lover, Vinyl Addict, Avid Concert Goer, and Community Radio Enthusiast. To read her full interiew with Ryan Guldemond of Mother Mother, visit argosy.ca. To listen, visit Vanessa Blackiers blog, Lookin Good for Radio at goodlookingradio.wordpress.com.
How has Atlantic Canada been treating you? Its been very, very hospitable. Its great, very charming out here. We spend less time here because were
On Novemeber 19, the members of Bolivia ( Jake Bastedo, Zoe Caddell, Liz Kent, Graham Ereaux and Luke Trainor) gathered in a cold loft over a friends garage to begin recording their new EP with Patrick Edmonds. In spite of the frigid environment, the band was smiling and upbeat. Before recording a song, the musicians would gather around a space heater to warm-up; not a typical recording experience, but nevertheless one that Bolivia is excited about, I think this EP is a milestone in our band history, its moving us forward. Were all really excited about itI mean look at us: were in a subzero arctic attic right now and loving it, says Liz Kent. Bolivia has become a Sackville favorite, with fans knowing the lyrics of their songs by heart just through live performances. The band is truly grateful of their fans, and the chance to start a band in a town as supportive as Sackville. Sackville is the best place to start a band. There is just so much support. I think that becomes evident when people know
Argosy Photo/ Rosanna Hempel Bolivia gathered in the loft of a friends garage to record their upcoming EP, from left; Zoe Caddell, Graham Ereaux and Liz Kent. your songs, says Graham Ereaux. The process of recording the EP has been a meticulous endeavor, with thought and reflection put into every track. We hope to arrange the songs so that they will each kind of flow into the other like a story. We strive to make the EP less of a collection of songs and more of a full experience when all songs are listened to, explains Ereaux. Combine patiently listening to each song, mixing all the tracks, and compiling all of them together, and the result is a final product that will hopefully please the ears of Bolivia fans and fans-to-be. The recording has been a very handson experience, with a low-key release planned, Bolivia will be copying and packaging the EP themselves- a process that the band affectionately refers to as craft making. After the release of their album, there will hopefully be similar projects of Bolivias musical horizons. As far as band relationships go, were pretty deeply in love, and plan on staying together for as long as we can. Once we have more time, money, and songs, Im sure an album will start to develop. Its a lot more work recording an album, and we have decided that if we do one, we want to put in a full effort and get the most out of it as we can. Really, we just havent been together long enough to start thinking about that. This EP is the best first step though, explains Ereaux. The EP, untitled as of yet, will have five songs on it and hopefully be finished before Stereophonic and available for music lovers to purchase, I received possible life threats after concerts because we didnt have things to sell to people, jokes Jake Bastedo, so that was enough incentive to record an EP.
ATTIC TRANSMISSIONS
DECEMBER 1, 2011
THE CHARTS
FOR THE WEEK ENDING TUESDAY NOVEMBER 29, 2011
RANK ARTIST TITLE (LABEL) 01 JON MCKIEL* Tonka War Cloud (Saved By Vinyl/Youth Club) 02 COREY ISENOR* The Hunting Party (Self-Released)
03 DEVARROW*
The Coast, The Cottage (Self-Released)
04 FEIST* Metals (Arts & Crafts) 05 ST. VINCENT Strange Mercy (4AD) 06 MARINE DREAMS* Marine Dreams (Youve Changed) 07 BAD VIBRATIONS* Black Train (Self-Released) 08 SANDRO PERRI* Impossible Spaces (Constellation)
09 TASSEOMANCY*
Ulalume (Out of This Spark)
10 DAVID MYLES* Into the Sun (Little Tiny) 11 THE STROKES Angles (RCA) 12 APOLLO GHOSTS* Money Has No Heart 7-inch (Geographing) 13 DOG DAY* Deformer (Fun Dog) 14 SNAILHOUSE* Sentimental Gentleman (Forward Music Group) 15 COUSINS* Secret Weapon 7-inch (Noyes)
16 WILCO
The Whole Love (dBpm)
However, we cant pull off an event of this proportion by ourselves. We depend upon your support to make Stereophonic one of Canadas most exciting winter music festivals. If you are interested in lending a hand, come to a volunteer meeting TODAY at 5:30 P.M. in the CHMA of ce, located on the third oor of the Wallace McCain Student centre. If you cannot make the meeting but are still interested in volunteering, please email Kevin and Jess at chma.stereophonic@ gmail.com For more information about Stereophonic 9, visit our website: http://stereophonicmusicfestival.wordpress.
17 BJRK Biophilia (Nonesuch) 18 THE SKELETONES FOUR* Gravestone Rock (Label Fantastic) 19 PAT LEPOIDEVIN* Highway Houses (Bridge Port Falls) 20 ADAM & THE AMETHYSTS* Flickering Flashlight (Kelp) 21 THE DECEMBERISTS Long Live the King (Capitol)
22 TOM WAITS
Bad As Me (Anti-)
CHARTER #31: David Simard Slower, Lower (Self-Released) Last weekend, David Simard started Saturday night off at Georges Roadhouse (followed by Corey Isenor and Jon McKiel) with a set of songs he sung with only an electric guitar for accompaniment. He released a full-length debut at the beginning of October, and has been touring to support it since. Last years Stereophonic saw him playing a haunting set in the Mount Allison Chapel; perhaps Sackville will be treated to another of his performances this coming January!
23 THE BARR BROTHERS* The Barr Brothers (Secret City) 24 ELLIOTT BROOD* Days Into Years (Paper Bag) 25 SAM ROBERTS* Collider (Rounder) 26 CARLETON STONE* Carleton Stone (Groundswell) 27 SEBASTIAN Total (Ed Banger) 28 THE WOMBATS This Modern Glitch (14th Floor) 29 THE LUYAS* Too Beautiful to Work (Ide Fixe) 30 PURITY RING* Ungirthed 7-inch (Transparent)
31 DAVID SIMARD*
Slower, Lower (Self-Released)
NEWCOMER SESSIONS EVERY TUESDAY 4PM 364-2221 WWW.MTA.CA/CHMA 3RD FLOOR STUDENT CENTRE
December 1, 2011
argosy@mta.ca
American malls attempt to NASA Curiosity track shoppers behaviours rover set to reach Mars by 2012 Smartphone
New Mars mission pushes boundaries of science
Marc-Alexandre Chartrand
InternetPhoto/GlobeandMail Whos watching you ? Two malls in America admit to trying to capture information about shopping behaviour by tracking smartphones. just that: personal. If retailers want to tap into your phone to see what your shopping patterns are, they can ask you for your permission to do so. Forest City Commercial Management (which oversees the operations of both malls where smartphone tracking took place), seemed relatively unapologetic and optimistic about the future of their shopper-tracking technology. We have temporarily suspended further trial of the technology while we work with the system developer on possible enhancements, and in deference to concerns raised by Senator Schumer, Forest City commented. We look forward to meeting with the senator and his staff, together with the system developer, to further explore his concerns. Sharon Biggar, the CEO of Path Intelligence (the company who designed the tracking technology) suggested that her company is only trying to even the playing field between online and offline shoppers and retailers. She argued that online shopping websites often employ tracking software, and her company creates a product that allows retailers in the physical world to get the same edge. Path Intelligence and Forest City Commercial Management alike have reasoned that their technologies are anonymous and respectful to shoppers. Each cell phone is coded as a different number, and individuals appear only on the display as a black dot that corresponds with the movement of the individual. Black Friday has now passed, but if Schuman fails in renouncing the pitfalls of tracking technology, the world we live in might just get a little more big brother than we would like it to. scientifically interesting locations on Mars because it exhibits exposures of clay minerals that formed in the presence of liquid water that could provide an opportunity for the genesis of biological life. From NASAs prior missions weve learned that Mars is a dynamic planet, said Michael Meyer, lead scientist for NASAs Mars exploration program, at a pre-launch briefing for reporters at the Kennedy Space Center. Weve learned that it has a history where it was warm and wet at the same time that life started here on Earth. And we know its undergone a massive transition from that more benign time to what it is today. Mars is worth exploring because of the potential for its having been habitable, at least in its past, said Meyer.
InternetPhoto/CNET The Curiosity is NASAs most expensive rover yet. Perhaps one of the most advanced pieces of technology launched into space, Curiosity is set to reach the red planet in August, 2012. almost two years exploring a large crater on the planet. Curiosity is about the size of a passenger vehicle, and has been in the works for a few years. It is loaded with some of the most advanced scientific instruments ever sent into space. The new rover runs on a powerful nuclear battery a generator that converts heat from the natural decay of Plutonium-238 into electricity. Curiosity is slated to spend over 687 earth days exploring the rock, soil, and atmosphere of the red planet. Of particular interest to NASA is a region referred to as The Gale Crater. The Gale Crater is five kilometers deep, and has long fascinated Mars enthusiasts because of the mountain of layered materials that compose it. These layers hold the key to understanding what Mars was like in the past, and may hold answers to some longstanding questions about the planets history. The crater is one of the most The Curiosity rover is equipped with cameras, which will allow scientists to study the Crater from a distance. The rover is also furnished with a drill and scooper that will allow it to dig into the ground to obtain soil samples. A laser beam has also been mounted on the rover that will allow it to blast through patches of rock, producing dust clouds that can be analyzed for the presence of carbon-based molecules, the primary biological constituents of all known life forms. The success of this mission is of a transcendental importance that goes beyond scientific exploration. Though NASA hopes for the best, they know that if their mission fails to produce any significant results, they may not be able to get the funding for such expensive and extensive missions into space in the future. Curiosity is set to push the limits of science and technology, and only time will tell if the results are favorable.
InternetPhoto/CanadianSpanceAgency
The Argosy
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21
Battle of wits
Journal explores military uses of neurotechnology
Tom Ingram
The Manitoban (University of Manitoba)
WINNIPEG (CUP) What will the wars of the future look like? Thats the question posed by a recent issue of the journal Synesis, centred on the theme of Neurotechnology in National Security. The issue assembles seven articles discussing the use of emerging brain-related technology for military purposes, detailing practical and ethical issues, and making recommendations for American policy. Spurred on by developments in brain science, such as an experiment in Germany that used neuro-imaging to predict test subjects decisions before they had conscious awareness that they had made a choice, the Synesis contributors seek to promote the issue of neuroscience in national security and bring the existing knowledge from theory into practice. cyber-neurosystems. They provide drugs in combat scenarios. Such examples, such as nanomachines that drugs could paralyze or bring about modify the brains functioning to passivity in enemy troops, or even enhance the performance of troops, kill them instantly. Using drugs in mind-reading by means of neurocombat is not a new idea, according to imaging, and devices that would Giordano and Wurzman, but modern increase a persons brainpower by scientific knowledge of the brain linking them to a computer. makes the idea more viable today The other papers go into more detail. than ever before. Some of them Giordano argues discuss brainthat opposition to machine interfaces, It cannot (nor should the use of science which could wire not) be overlooked in combat is a human into a that other nations are unrealistic. The computer network. making tremendous fact of the matter These devices could investments in brain is that we do live be used to control science, and much in a world in which advanced weapons of this research could there are people systems directly provide a basis for who would like to from the mind, or offensive capabilities do bad things to for training and us or our friends, supplementing said Jonathan the abilities Moreno, a scientist Chris Forsythe and of intelligence James Giordano at the University analysts. DARPA, Synesis Editors of Pennsylvania in the U.S. Defense Philadelphia, and Advanced Research the author of a Projects Agency, is already developing guest editorial in Synesis. technology that would allow However, Curtis Bell, of the Oregon intelligence analysts to sift through Health & Science University, images at unprecedented speeds. disagrees. He is opposed to the use of One article, by Giordano and Rachel neurotechnology research for military Wurzman, discusses at length the purposes. Its not enough just to issue of neuropharmacological study the issue of ethics, he said.
CUP/Nigel Sutcliffe
Nano-neuroscience, pharmaceuticals, neuro-imaging and cyberneurosystems may soon become the artillery of the frontlines.
It cannot (nor should not) be overlooked that other nations are making tremendous investments in brain science, and much of this research could provide a basis for offensive capabilities, says a paper co-authored by Chris Forsythe and James Giordano, the issues editors. The paper argues that the U.S. needs to be proactive in researching and developing neurotechnology for military purposes, to remain ahead of international competitors and protect national security. But a forward-looking program of research, development, testing and evaluation ... does not imply our developing and stockpiling potential neuroweapons, it says, arguing that developments in neurotechnology would best be used for intelligence efforts. Forsythe and Giordano discuss four broad types of technology they believe could be valuable for national security: nano-neuroscience, pharmaceuticals, neuro-imaging and
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania has found a new way to diagnose and track the onset of Alzheimers disease by using an innovative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technique called arterial spin labeling (ASL) in order to measure changes in brain function. Alzheimers disease is an irreversible, progressive brain disease that gradually destroys memory and cognitive functioning, eventually rendering one unable to carry out the most basic tasks. Alzheimers primarily strikes individuals in their old age, with symptoms generally appearing after the age of 60. It is the most common cause of dementia in older people. Scientists still dont know exactly what causes Alzheimers disease, but it has become quite clear that it develops because of a complex series of events that take place in the brain over a long period of time. Alzheimers is currently diagnosed using a specific positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) scan that
InternetPhoto/FrontiersofAgingNeuroscience blood flow were nearly identical to the patterns of reduced glucose metabolism by FDG-PET, both of which differed from the patterns of reduction in gray matter seen in AD. According to the authors of the aforementioned study, "given that ASL-MRI is entirely non-invasive, has no radiation exposure, is widely available and easily incorporated into standard MRI routines, it is potentially more suitable for screening and longitudinal disease tracking than FDG-PET." Further studies will try to focus on larger sample sizes including patients with mild cognitive impairment and other kinds of neurodegenerative conditions. If diagnoses continue to be easily reached by ASL-MRI, this new technique could eventually replace PET scans, nearly eliminating the risk factor of Alzheimers testing procedures.
InternetPhoto/Siemens
December 1, 2011
argosy@mta.ca
Gayle h. Martin enthusiastically conducts The Mount Allison Choral Society at the Chapel on Saturday.
Christus Natus Est by Renaissance composer Jan Pieterszoon Sweelinck. True to the Renaissance tradition of composition, the piece featured richly layered harmonies, cascading melodies, and polyharmonic textures. Despite the large size of the combined ensembles, the singers voices blended seamlessly together, and they sang with delicate, yet deliberate phrasing. The piece featured spots of tension, but it always pleasantly resolved. The Elliott Chorale then performed Motets by French choral composer Francis Poulenc. A motet is a vocal composition in polyphonic style, based upon a Biblical or prose text that is intended for use in a church service. The three movements of this particular motet are part of a four-movement piece intended to be performed around Christmastime. The piece is replete is dissonant and complex harmonies, and is an especially technically challenging work for singers. Throughout the motets, Poulenc breaks the rules of counterpoint in traditional choral arrangements, which makes the piece exciting both for the performer and the audience. Following the Chorales performance was a series of short selections by Opella Nova, a quartet featuring Maura MacDonald, Kayley Patterson, Colin Frotten, and Eric Biskupski. The singers voices complimented each other as they performed more familiar and upbeat selections, such Lo How the Rose is Blooming and Fum Fum Fum. Although there were a few pitch issues throughout the pieces, the quartet gave a lovely and entertaining performance.
Internet Photo/ Creature Comforts helpful for first-timers (she also has an AWESOME dog thats usually hangin around). There are also a lot of gift options for this choice. You can make bags, clothes, cloths, tablecloths, pillows, and whatever else you can silkscreen on! 6)Wrapping Paper and Bows Now that you have all of these fantastic gifts for the ones you love, you have to make them as pretty on the outside as they are on the inside. Get as creative as you can with collaged wrapping paper, handmade gift tags, and bows made of features or leaves. Remember Christmas is supposed to be fun, not stressful. So, make your holidays as relaxed and enjoyable as possible using some of these quick and easy gift ideas!
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23
Last week, Windsor Theatre delivered wonderful performance of Henrik Ibsens famous slightly comedic drama, An Enemy of the People. This was the final play put on by Windsor Theatre for the fall season. This was the first production I took in at Windsor Theatres new location in Convocation Hall. I must say I was not disappointed. After being whisked in from the frigid November evening, I found myself in a comfortable, intimate environment on the stage of Con Hall. The space was enclosed by tall partitions that separated the production from the rest of the hall. An Enemy of the People was one of Ibsens most overtly political works. Written midway through the Norwegian playwrights career, the play tells the story of a Doctor in a small resort town discovers the towns water supply is contaminated, and is subsequently denounced by the entire town. I wanted to do Enemy of the People with the students of Mount Allison because it speaks so clearly to our time. Said director Mary Vingoe in the directors note. It could be the pipeline, it could the oil sandsthis play is stunningly relevant today. The entire cast was absolutely onpoint for the entire performance Saturday evening. The players channeled a vibrant intensity, and
The cast of The Enemy of the People performed sold out shows at Windsor Theatres new location in Convocation Hall last weekend.
delivered their lines with conviction without being overbearing. Justin Thomas was cast perfectly as the eccentric and wise protagonist Dr. Thomas Stockmann, opposite to his somber brother Peter Stockmann (played by Jeffery OHare). Thomas and OHare were dynamic and complimented each other perfectly, matching seriousness with quirky insight. The entire play was overflowing with extremely serious ideas and insight coupled with fun comedic interplay. The acting was extremely physical at times; all of the players worked together to deliver scenes of loud, cacophonous intensity, juxtaposed with sentimental scenes with memorable lines. Absolutely no space within the small stage was wasted. There were seats in the audience reserved that the actors occupied in the second act, interacting with the players on center stage. It was an audience within an audience: a great example of some light meta-theatre. This really added to the intimacy of the entire production, and made for a very real and profound theatrical experience. The costumes were very well done; everything looked as though it was straight from the late nineteenth century. The stage fixtures were simple yet effective: a wall with simple wallpaper as a backdrop, tables and chairs depending on the scene. The actors made great use of the relatively small space. An Enemy of the People is far from an easy play to stage. The actors of Windsor Theatre truly succeeded in bringing Ibsens work it to life.
The Arts and Lit Section accepts creative writing pieces each week. If you are a budding poet, dabble in fiction, prose or perhaps are creating your own literary genre, email argosy@mta.ca to submit your masterpiece and share your work.
Creative Writing
Trees
By Sam Page
May 24 Today was a pretty normal day, worked the long shift at the library then came home for some R&R. I found some seeds under a shelf on third floor this afternoon though, and thought that was weird, but when I told Mandy about it she told me that the library had had problems with squirrels in the past. You learn something new everyday I suppose. June 1 What an awful day. The sprinkler system went off in the library for some mysterious reason. The cops werent able to find any culprit but whoever it was managed to ruin millions of dollars worth of books and to make me very busy for the next few months. June 12 Weve been working almost nonstop for almost two weeks now to try and dry all of the books in the library. We started with those in the basement floors because those got the wettest and are for the most part irreplaceable.
July 7 Something unbelievable is happening in the library. Today we finally started drying the last of the books on the main floor and are going to move on to the upper levels, before today, however, nobody has been up there
for about a month simply because we couldnt spare the time. The risk of mould was worth saving the other books while we still could. What exactly is happening up there or how its happening I have no idea, but we were all stupefied when we saw it.
Plants and small trees, all growing from piles of damp books which had been knocked off their shelves. I know this makes no sense, but I saw it with my own eyes. July 8 Men in white coats came to the library today to looks at what was happening on the upper floors and were struck dumb just as we had been, they became worried after seeing the size of some of the trees, almost reaching the ceiling and stretching out towards the windows. Frankly I think its beautiful everything is so vibrant and green. The way they all grow between the rows of shelves gives me a certain sense of serenity. July 10 We werent allowed inside the library today, nobody was. Apparently men in hard hats had given the order, saying that the integrity of the building was at great risk because the roots of the all the trees had burrowed throughout the upper floors and walls. They had even breached to water pipes and
there was flooding again. June 15 The men in hard hats told us that the building could collapse at any time so we were not allowed inside to save the books we worked so hard to dry. Today I went over, however, because Mandy told me there was something I needed to see. When I got there I was far from disappointed. The trees had started bursting through the windows, desperately seeking open air and sunlight and growing at a frantic rate. It made the building look as if it was about to erupt from being to full of foliage. A large group had gathered at the front of the library protesting the plans to demolish the building. Yelling at the men in hard hats, demanding how they could destroy such a show of the miraculous powers of nature. They should be ashamed of themselves. Monsters! What are you so afraid of anyways? June 19 The library was knocked down today. I have an interview at a bookstore thats not too far away tomorrow.
December 1, 2011
argosy@mta.ca
The Argosy
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SPORTS
Fullback Rolly Lumbala lifts the Grey Cup after his team beats the Winnipeg Blue Bombers 34-23.
Bombers, Lions come back from the depths to shine on national stage
Wray Perkin
Sports Writer
If theres one thing to take away from the many story lines surrounding the CFLs ninety-ninth Grey Cup last weekend, its that anything is possible. While the game may not tell that same story itself, as the BC Lions essentially controlled the game en route to a 34-23 victory at home in the new BC Place, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, the losing team in the game, along with the Lions, overcame many obstacles on their way to the championship game, and each team has their fair share of individuals who have overcome much adversity in their time. Starting with the Blue Bombers, who finished dead last in the CFL with a 4-14 record in 2010, it would have been easy for them to chuck their systems, ditch a few players, and try and rebuild. They didnt do that, and instead put their faith in Head Coach Paul LaPolice, who entered only his second season as Head Coach in 2011. They also returned twenty of twenty-four starters, and their biggest off-season acquisition was bringing in two-time Grey Cup champion Tim Burke to coordinate the defence from the sidelines. Quarterback Buck Pierce was one of the 20 returning starters, but he did not finish the 2010 season; on Labour Day against Saskatchewan last year, Pierce dislocated the elbow on his throwing arm, a gruesome injury which no quarterback in professional football has ever come back from. Pierce set career highs in completions, passing yards, and rushing yards in 2011 to pace the Blue Bombers in 2011, and, had it not been
for Montreal quarterback Anthony Calvillos record-setting season, may well have been a contender for East Division All-Star at the position. Early in the 2011 season, the Bombers faced heartache of the worst kind. On July 26, just two days before their week five matchup against BC, beloved assistant coach Richard Harris suffered a heart attack in his office, and passed away moments later. The Blue Bombers played on, dedicating the following game and the rest of the season to Coach Harris, who many saw as more than a coach; in many of the interviews leading up to the Grey Cup game, Bomber players described Harris as a father figure to everyone on the team. Despite losing Harris, the Blue Bombers stayed strong, winning their game days after his death, and the defensive line, which he coached, was a strength of the team, boasting CFL sack leader Odell Willis. Even though one can look at the champion BC Lions, it was not all rosy and happy for them in 2011. If it is said that some teams stumble out of the gate, it is safe to say that the Lions actually fell down on their face out of the gate. A 0-5 start to the season which was full of blown coverage assignments, dropped passes, and an overall inability to do anything well had the Lions winless, and then at 1-6. In week 8 against Edmonton that all changed. The Lions dominated 36-1 and did not look back. 28-6. 42-5. 43-1. Those are just some of the scores from the Lions run for first place in the West, which included an eight-game win streak en route to a stunning (seemingly) 11-7 record. In the West Final, the Lions stuck it to those same Eskimos, before beating Winnipeg in the Grey Cup game. At the centre of the Lions 2011 season was quarterback Travis Lulay. A couple of bad interceptions by the second-year starter cost the Lions dearly in those early losses, but the fiery pivot didnt fold, and improved every game. Thursday night before
Combined record of both teams last season Combined record of both teams this season Total yards passing by both Lulay and Pierce
the Grey Cup, Lulay was honoured as the Leagues Most Outstanding Player, an achievement which many would not have seen coming three years ago. After bouncing back from a career-threatening injury in the NFL Europe, Lulay got a shot at the Lions roster. At the start of the 2009 season, Lulay made the roster as the fourth-string quarterback. Jarious Jackson, Casey Printers, and Buck Pierce (yes, the same one) were all ahead of him on the depth chart. Pierce was shipped out after injury troubles, and when the Lions came to the realization that Printers would never win them a championship, they decided to give the kid Lulay a shot at the starting job in 2010. Lulay started the final few games for the Lions last season, and started the West Division Semi-Final, an overtime loss to the Saskatchewan Roughriders, who would lose in the Grey Cup game. This season, there was little doubt Lulay was the man for BC, and he showed it, finishing in the top two in the CFL in virtually every passing stat. So when you look at the ninetyninth Grey Cup, dont just look at the game and result, take note of the many story lines of resolve and determination. Because, as any CFL fan will tell you, its what makes the CFL so great; you never know what is going to happen.
26 SPORTS
December 1, 2011
argosy@mta.ca
The Mount Allison Brazillian Jiu-Jitsu squad consists of (LR): Justin Groves, Jeff Hicks, Chris Arsenault, Kelly Minion, Harry Wenban and Tim Wingate. The team achieved several podium finishes at a tournament this past month in Moncton.
frequently have chills, fevers, sweats, swollen lymph glands, become weak, and experience weight loss. HIV is very difficult to treat because the virus has a high mutation rate, so it is not easy to generate a treatment that will affect all mutant stains within a persons body. Therefore, there is no cure for this virus. There are treatments that are available to patients that can help suppress the replication
and yard sales whenever they need the extra help. He is also the captain of the Mt. A mens basketball team, and has been captain for the last two seasons. Some of Kevins best memories from Mount Allison come from playing on the basketball team as well as some of his best friends, travelling on the road is the best part that is where some my best memories will come from. Basketball season is long, from late September to the beginning of March, so balancing school and work can be tough. Hes found that basketball has actually been a motivator to get things done. It helps him plan out his days and schedule time for everything, as compared to when basketball ends and sometimes he finds himself getting a little lazy. Having basketball at a set time, working school around it, just gives him the break he needs to get focused and hit the books. The basketball team has just acquired a new coach for the upcoming second half of the season and they plan on treating it like a brand new season. January it is going to be like the season is starting over again as we prepare for the remaining games in our schedule with our
MountAllison/Sue Seaborn
new head coach, Duane Starratt. Its exciting and our team feels we will accomplish great things by seasons end. With this being Kevins last year as a Mountie, his plans for the future are simple: start working or head back to school. Either way he is very confident that basketball will play a part in whatever he chooses because of the confidence and drive to succeed he has gained from playing. The next time the Mount Allison Mens basketball team plays at home is Wednesday January 18 at 8:00pm. So, come on out and cheer on Kevin and the rest of your Mounties!
strategy. Its focus is on grappling and ground-fighting, in which an opponent wins by submissions such as arm-bars or guillotines. The team is led and coached by fourth year Commerce student Chris Arsenault, who runs classes twice a week outside of other training time. Tournaments such as the one Jeff Hicks in Moncton provide an excellent opportunity for the teams members Argosy Contributor to test their techniques and strategies against new opponents. When asked Mount Allisons Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, about the tournament, Chris had one of the universitys most active club this to say: Im proud of all the guys teams, competed in two tournaments that competed, win or lose. It is really throughout November, collecting an most important to get out on the mats impressive array of medals. From the and see if your techniques work in a first tournament, held in Moncton, competitive environment. Its really Mt. A students Chris Arsenault, rewarding for me as a coach to see the Kelly Minion, team executing Tim Wingate, the moves that and Justin Groves Its really rewarding we worked on each fought their in training. At for me as a coach way to podium all tournaments positions. At to see the team and classes, the second participants executing the moves tournament, and coaches hosted in Truro, that we worked on in stress respect Nova Scotia, the training and politeness lone competitor b e t w e e n Adam Semple opponents on Chris Arsenault and off the mat. represented the club well The classes are Mixed Martial Artist by amassing a always open to 3-2 record, and newcomers, and coming in fourth do not require place. a serious commitment from anyone Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a form of who does not intend to compete in submission wrestling and selftournaments. The classes take place defence, originating out of Japan in the fitness centre every Wednesday and Brazil. It has rapidly spread from 8:30 to 9:30, and Sunday from into popular culture through its 6:00-7:30. For more information, prominence in mixed martial art contact Chris at: cearsenault@mta.ca.
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SPORTS
Women and men Hockey Mounties holding Mounties roll down fourth place over NSAC Mounties split Hockey stats
weekend games against Xavier, Huskies
for the game, with Meghan CorleyByrne taking the loss in goal. Sunday, the Mounties line of James, Courtney King and captain Lauren Oickle accounted for all the offence, with each member of the line recording multiple points in the 4-1 victory. Oickle got things started on the powerplay just over halfway Wray Perkin through the first period. Oickle scored her second of the Sports Writer game midway through the second, though the Huskies cut the lead in half in the third period. Oickles two The Mount Allison Womens Hockey linemates then put the game away, Mounties head into the Christmas with King and James scoring five break on a winning note, splitting minutes apart to seal the deal. their weekend games this past James recorded a goal and two weekend on the road. Saturday, the assists, while Oickle collected the two Mounties dropped a hard-fought goals to go with Kings goal and assist. contest 3-2 to fourth ranked St FX, Corley-Byrne stopped 30 of 31 shots before defeating the Saint Marys for the victory. Huskies 4-1 on Sunday. We are playing good games The fourth-place Mounties (5-4-2, 12 points) head into the break having against the best teams in our league, won five of their last seven games said Head Coach Zach Ball. We after starting out the season with four have shown that can have success losses. against those teams and we belong at At St. FX, the Mounties found the top of our division. The Mounties themselves down three minutes in. defeated fifth ranked Moncton a week Failing to clear the puck from their ago, and held their own against St own zone, FX, so it has been a the Mounties couple of promising surrendered a We are playing good weekends to end off goal to Daniela 2011. Falconio. The games against the best This weekend rest of the teams in our league. was filled with period was strong individual fairly evenly and team efforts, Zach Ball as the Mounties played, with the X-Women Head Coach narrowly outshot holding a 10-8 their opponents 60shots advantage. 58 in the two games. The faceoff circle was dominated by Early in the second, the Mounties the Mounties, however, with their managed to take a 2-1 lead following centres winning sixty-four of ninetygoals by Lindsay James and Katelyn nine draws over the weekend, led by Morton. The lead wouldnt last, Courtney King, who won twenty-six however, as 2010-11 CIS Rookie of her forty faceoffs. of the Year Alex Normore scored a Jamess four-point weekend puts goal and assisted on another before her on quite the streak heading into the second period ended, giving the the break, as the sophomore forward X-Women the 3-2 lead they carried now has goals in five of her last six, until the final buzzer. as well as recording twelve points in Despite surrendering the tying and her last eight games. She is also on a winning goals in the second period, three-game goal and points streak. the Mounties had a clear shots After missing four games due to advantage, 17-8, and created many suspension, Oickle has come out chances in the X-Women zone. The firing as well, with six points in the Mounties held a 30-27 edge in shots
27
+4 .968 1.5
Goal differential for the Mounties so far this season Save percentage of Meghan CorleyByrne in Sundays victory over SMU Points per game for sophomore Lindsay James in the last eight games
five games since returning to the lineup, and is also on a three-game points streak. Defensively, the Mounties have seen Kristen Cooze and rookie Emily Van Diepen emerge as strong offensive threats from the blueline, while seeing steady defensive play from veterans Meg Davies and Megan Cameron. Corley-Byrne and Jenelle Hulan are teaming up in goal to put together a solid season; the Mounties are ninth in the CIS as a team with a .923 save percentage. Hulan is undefeated in three starts while Corley-Byrne has won two of the last three. In what might be the biggest turnaround from years past, the Mounties are holding down a respectable goal differential, having outscored their opponents 29-25. The individual plus/minus ratings are significantly higher than past seasons as well, with the highest rating belonging to Ashlyn Somers, who at +12 is tenth in the CIS. The Mounties return to action on the first full weekend of January, with a pair of home games. Saturday, January seventh the Mounties play host to the Huskies at 2:30pm, and will welcome the St FX X-Women to Sackville on Sunday the eighth at 2pm. Four of their five games in January are at home, so be sure to mark your new 2012 calendars and support the Mounties as they search for their second playoff berth in a row.