Class 4 - 1st place - Fanshawe College, Fall edition
PUBLICATIONS
x16320
h_theodore@fanshawec.ca
519.452.4109
CONTRIBUTORS
Konstantinos Drossos, Eric Fry, Zoë Alexandra King, Ainsley Krienselokker, Georgia Newman, Jack Sutton, Briar Wilson
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS
Alissa Challis, Mauricio Franco, Ariah Prestanski
ILLUSTRATORS
Mauricio Franco, Caleigh Reid
519.452.4109 x16332
519.452.4109 x16324 VIDEOGRAPHER
x16326
x16343
COMICS
Alan Dungo, Mauricio Franco, Chris Miszczak
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Charlotte Hartman, Cassidy Pelacek-Boutilier, Aida Ulimaeva
Mission Statement: The Interrobang is a student-funded, student-run newspaper at Fanshawe College published by the Fanshawe College Student Union. It serves the student readership by reporting news involving the Fanshawe campus community, surrounding areas and student activities across Canada. The Interrobang strives to be impartial in its reporting and believes in the public’s right to know.
Land Acknowledgment: Interrobang acknowledges that our office is situated on the shared traditional lands of the Anishinaabeg, Haudenausaune, Lenaapeewak, and Attawandaron peoples. The First Nations communities of our local area include Chippewas of the Thames First Nation, Oneida Nation of the Thames, and Munsee Delaware Nation. We affirm the importance of our relationship with Indigenous peoples and students at Fanshawe College.
Legal: Editorial opinions or comments expressed in this newspaper reflect the views of the writer and are not those of the Interrobang or the Fanshawe Student Union. All photographs are copyright 2024 by Fanshawe Student Union. All rights reserved. The Interrobang is printed by Huron Web Printing & Graphics, 395 Broadway St., Wyoming, Ontario N0N 1T0 and published bi-weekly by the Fanshawe Student Union at 1001 Fanshawe College Blvd., Room SC2001, London, Ontario N5Y 5R6 and distributed through the Fanshawe College community. Letters to the editor are welcome. All letters are subject to editing and should be emailed. All letters must be accompanied by contact information. Letters can also be submitted online at theinterrobang.ca by following the Interrobang links.
Proud Member Of: Canadian University Press (CUP), Ontario Community Newspapers Association (OCNA).
Dear readers,
FROM THE EDITOR
Hannah Theodore (she/her)
As the world around us evolves, so too does our technology. Right now, we are in the midst of a new era of Artificial Intelligence (AI), witnessing its rapid acceleration in real time.
Not only is the technology itself evolving, so too is its prevalence in our everyday lives. The very face of the Internet is changing as websites, search engines, and social media apps incorporate AI into their frameworks.
At times, this New Web feels almost unrecognizable. We are constantly being inundated with prompts to try some new AI feature, reminded daily of how beneficial and effective this technology is and will be! At the same time, those critical of AI remind us of its inherent dangers, such as the deceptive nature of AI-generated images or the threats AI poses to creative industries like film and television.
Many of you, as students, will be no strangers to AI. By now, most of your instructors have likely laid out their expectations as they pertain to AI in the classroom. This is not the time to forgo your creativity. College is a time to experiment, forge new ideas, discover your own interests and grow. And while I know AI can be helpful, I implore you to find a balance. Don’t give in to the easy way out.
I hope you enjoy our Tech Issue and that it offers you some valuable insight into the world we live in now, and where we might be going.
Sincerely,
COVER: Mauricio Franco
Canada expels Indian diplomats over murder of Sikh leader
On Oct. 14, Canada expelled six Indian diplomats, including the high commissioner. In response, India ordered the expulsion of six senior Canadian diplomats and recalled its envoy from Canada. At the same time, the public accusations by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau against India in connection with the killing of Canadian Sikh leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar have ignited a diplomatic storm, raising questions about the potential repercussions on Canada-India relations.
While the Canadian government has cited an ongoing Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) investigation, the lack of hard public evidence has led to polarized opinions, both domestically and internationally.
Fanshawe professor in the School of Language and Liberal Studies, Glen Morgan discussed the implications of Trudeau’s decision to go public with the accusations and whether it was a strategic move. According to Morgan, the announcement was unusual, considering the ongoing investigation.
“Typically, when an investigation is in progress, details are kept confidential until charges are laid or more concrete evidence is available,” he said.
Morgan suggested that Canada’s need for international support might drive Trudeau’s decision to accuse India publicly.
“Canada is not a global heavyweight, whether diplomatically or militarily, and the government may have needed to rally allies to apply pressure on India. Since the public accusation, we’ve seen condemnations from the United States and the United Kingdom.
Trudeau likely sought these countries’ backing to amplify Canada’s concerns,” he explained.
However, the strategy has significantly affected Canada-India relations, which Morgan believes are now at a historic low.
“India’s immediate denial of the allegations, coupled with Canada’s insistence on their validity, has led to a sharp deterioration in diplomatic ties. Given India’s prominent role as a source of international students and skilled workers, there could be long-term consequences on immigration and bilateral trade,” Morgan said.
India is one of the most significant contributors to Canada’s international student population, particularly in post-secondary institutions like Fanshawe College. With tensions running high, prospective students may reconsider their plans to study in Canada, which could have a lasting impact on Canadian universities and colleges.
“This situation might tarnish Canada’s image as a welcoming place for Indian students and immigrants,” Morgan added.
Domestically, the accusation has also stirred polarization, particularly in Canada’s multicultural society. Morgan warned that diplomatic conflicts like this can heighten underlying racial tensions.
“Canada is known for its multiculturalism, but that doesn’t mean we’re free of racism. This situation might inflame divisions between communities, especially those with ties to India,” he said. The international community is also watching closely, but Morgan does not expect a significant fallout with Canada’s other partners. “While India has allies like Russia through organizations such as BRICS, Canada’s ties with the U.S. and other Western countries remain strong. I don’t foresee this affecting Canada’s broader international relationships,” he said. “The issue may remain largely confined to Canada-India relations, at least in the immediate future.”
One of the most complex aspects of this case lies in the ethical considerations surrounding Trudeau’s decision to make the allegations without presenting clear public evidence.
“It’s perplexing,” Morgan said. “On the one hand, the RCMP investigation is ongoing, so they may have evidence they’re not yet disclosing. On the other hand, Trudeau publicly accusing India and then admitting that no evidence has been made public is risky. It puts the government in a difficult position, especially if the investigation doesn’t yield the expected results.”
The case centres around Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a prominent Sikh activist in Canada, who was
shot and killed outside a temple in Surrey, B.C., on June 18, 2023. His murder has heightened tensions within the Sikh community and placed additional strain on already delicate Canada-India relations. While Nijjar was born in India, he was a Canadian citizen at his death.
Morgan concluded by stating that the full consequences of this diplomatic clash are still unfolding.
“It’s an evolving situation, and we may not understand the full impact for months if not years. However, the strain on diplomatic and immigration ties between the two countries is undeniable,” he said.
Ont. college faculty union votes to authorize strike action, if necessary
Hannah Theodore (she/her) INTERROBANG
Members of the union representing faculty at Ontario’s 24 public colleges have voted to authorize a strike mandate.
The Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) said 79 per cent of those who participated in the vote supported a strike mandate, with 76 per cent of members casting a ballot. According to the union, this represents the largest College Faculty strike mandate vote “in a generation.”
“It never feels good to contemplate a strike,” said OPSEU 110 President, Mark Feltham. “That said, the vote result shows that our members are committed to our bargaining team and our positions. We hope that the CEC sees it the same way.”
The key issues on the bargaining table for OPSEU include
workload and job precarity.
OPSEU represents roughly 15,000 professors, instructors, librarians and counsellors.
OPSEU said it remains hopeful a contract can be negotiated with the College Employer Council (CEC).
“We remain focused on a fair, negotiated settlement that does not sacrifice our hard-fought rights, and which achieves real gains to our wages and working conditions,” the union said in a statement released Oct. 18.
The CEC said it has offered to engage in mediation-interest arbitration and that any kind of strike is “unnecessary.”
“The Colleges do not want students and employees to be negatively impacted because of the unwillingness of the CAAT-A bargaining team to settle negotiations at the table,” said Graham Lloyd, CEO of CEC in a statement. “Mediation followed by interest arbitration provides a win-win solution for both parties and, most importantly, the students.”
Feltham said he hopes it does not come to that.
“It takes two sides to bargain,” Feltham said. “Mediation/arbitration is certainly a tool available to settle bargaining disputes, but we very much prefer to settle things at the table, and now that our members have demonstrated their commitment to the process, we’re hopeful things will move forward.”
The union echoed these concerns, stating that binding interest arbitration at this point would be the “easiest way” for the CEC to achieve its agenda.
Fanshawe Student Union (FSU) President, Siddharth Singh sent a message to students, stating that their “academic journey and well-being remain our top priority.”
“While we understand that discussions between the faculty and the college are ongoing, we hope for a swift and positive resolution for all parties,” Singh said. “However, if a strike does occur, please know that we are committed to
advocating for students’ interests and will work closely with the college to minimize any disruptions to your education.”
Feltham added that the union’s demands would improve the learning experiences of students overall.
“Education has changed massively; email, online classes, video lectures, AI, and various other developments have changed our work, and we want our employer to recognize that we need more time to navigate these complexities,” Feltham said. “We’ve also seen greatly increased work for counsellors and an erosion of librarian positions across our system. Improvements in all of these areas equal better learning conditions for our students.”
CREDIT: ONTARIO PUBLIC SERVICE EMPLOYEES UNION (OPSEU)
Members of the college faculty union voted overwhelmingly in favour of authorizing a strike mandate on Oct. 18.
Feltham reiterated that the union does not want a strike, but hopes the vote demonstrates its commitment to its demands.
“Now that our members have shown that they’re firmly behind our team, we hope that they’ll see the light and bargain in good faith,” Feltham said.
The union’s contract expired on Oct. 1, and the parties have since held two days of conciliation talks.
According to the CEC, the union’s demands would increase college costs by almost $1 billion annually. OPSEU, meanwhile, noted that Ont. colleges saw an accumulated surplus of $1 billion over the past year, arguing “there’s enough money to prioritize quality education, while responsibly navigating any uncertainty.”
CREDIT: CPAC VIA YOUTUBE
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, joined by Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly and Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc, addressed allegations in Ottawa on Oct. 14 that Indian government agents engaged in criminal activity in Canada.
Gracia Espinosa (she/her) INTERROBANG
Ten Fanshawe students receive Canada’s largest trade scholarships
Briar
(she/her) INTERROBANG
Ten Fanshawe College students have been awarded life-changing skilled trades scholarships. The scholarships are among Canada’s largest skilled trades scholarships, coming from a program created by the Schulich Foundation.
The aim is to combat labour shortages and highlight the importance of skilled trades in Canada.
“We are proud to promote the skilled trades and support students pursuing this rewarding career path,” said Judy Schulich, director of the Schulich Foundation. “Canadians rely on the trades to build and maintain infrastructure critical for prosperous communities. Our challenge today is not having enough of these talented people to meet the demand.”
The program began just last year and has already invested $3 million into granting these scholarships. More than 1,000 students are nominated out of a pool of 350,000 candidates.
“My guidance counsellor nominated me for it and then I have
to get two references for it and then you apply for it,” shared Carter Vaughan-Warford, one of Fanshawe’s Schulich scholarship recipients.
The program gifted Fanshawe $325,000, allowing the college to provide another six students scholarships.
“We are grateful to the Schulich Foundation for their ongoing support in helping us unlock the potential of these talented students pursuing careers in the skilled trades,” said Stephen Patterson, dean of Fanshawe’s Faculty of Science, Trades and Technology.
These scholarships range anywhere from $20,000 to $40,000 and go towards helping students cover costs of tools, living accommodations, and tuition.
“It means a lot. It makes me not have to worry about working a lot to make the money. ‘Cause I’m also living in residence, so it’s a lot more on top of that also,” said Vaughan-Warford.
He added that his experience so far at Fanshawe has been “amazing.”
“It’s very different from what I imagined it to be. It’s going to be very, very hard, but it’s a really good community here.”
Seymour Schulich created and funded the Schulich Foundation.
CREDIT: BRIAR WILSON
The Schulich Foundation is providing scholarships to Fanshawe students studying the skilled trades.
Schulich holds Canada’s highest civilian award, the Order of Canada, and is among Canada’s greatest philanthropists.
Having benefited greatly from a scholarship that enabled him to do his MBA, Schulich has built a well-earned reputation as a champion for education and access to education in Canada and around the world.
The foundation has invested in faculties of all sorts including business, engineering, law, medicine, education, music, chemistry, dentistry, nursing and more. Over 7,000 scholarships are awarded annually to students in Schulich schools.
IRCC announces more limitations on study permits, PGWP eligibility
Gracia Espinosa (she/her) INTERROBANG
On Sept. 18, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced tightened limits on study permits and significant changes to the eligibility criteria for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
Immigration Minister Marc Miller confirmed that the international student cap will remain in place, with IRCC issuing only 437,000 study permits in 2025. This figure represents a 10 per cent reduction from the 2024 target of 485,000 permits, with a plan to stabilize the intake cap at this level for 2026. Consequently, the department anticipates a decrease of approximately 300,000 study permits issued over the next few years.
Roger Farias, a Fanshawe College student from Colombia, voiced his frustrations regarding the government’s latest regulations.
“We are practically at the mercy of anything the Ministry of Education and the government decide,” he remarked, highlighting how recent news has left many students anxious about their status and future opportunities.
With these changes coming less than a year after many international students arrived in Canada, Farias expressed his dismay at the lack of clear communication.
“It seems unfair that the expectations set by agencies and colleges can shift so drastically based on decisions made about other institutions and students,” he said.
In addition to the study permit cap, the eligibility requirements for the PGWP have changed. Starting Nov. 1, applicants must demonstrate a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 7 in English or Niveaux de Competence Linguistique Canadiens (NCLC) 7 in French in all four language areas. Additionally, college graduates will need a CLB of 5 in English or NCLC 5 in French in all four language areas. Miller expects these changes to result in 175,000 fewer PGWPs issued over the next three years.
Farias noted, “After two full years of studying and communicating in English, it feels redundant to be required to prove our language skills again through a proficiency exam.”
On Oct. 4, IRCC published the updated guidelines for PGWP eligibility, which now include specific
requirements related to the field of study. The eligible fields of study for PGWP have aligned with the Express Entry categories introduced by IRCC in 2023, which reflect the current needs of the national labour market. The eligible fields are:
• Agriculture and Agri-food
• Healthcare
• Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
• Trade
• Transport
These field of study requirements do not apply to university Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD graduates.
In a note to faculty on Oct. 23, Fanshawe President Peter Devlin said that in response to the changes, the college would be conducting a “thorough review” of its current program offerings and comparing them against the criteria set by the federal and provincial governments.
“Over the next several weeks, we will work to identify which programs qualify for post-graduate work permits under these new guidelines,” Devlin said. “Once the list is finalized and approved by government officials, we will be well-positioned to proceed with our multi-year program viability and budget analysis.”
Devlin was able to share with “reasonable certainty” that Fanshawe is projecting a 47 per cent reduction in international Level 1 student enrolment for the January intake and a 39 per cent reduction for the May intake. In the short term, he said the reduction in international student enrollment will result in fewer program sections being offered in the upcoming semesters.
“I understand that these are uncertain times, and it’s natural to feel concerned,” Devlin said. “However, I am confident in our ability to navigate these changes together. Our priority remains clear: to deliver an outstanding education for all our students and to ensure the long-term success of Fanshawe College.”
The uncertainty brought about by the new regulations has broader implications for international students currently at Fanshawe. Students like Farias have uprooted their lives, leaving behind family and friends to pursue their dreams in Canada.
“We put our lives into this,” Farias emphasized. “The time, money, and effort that go into studying abroad are immense, and when policies shift unexpectedly, it feels like our hard work is at risk.”
Wilson
London medical startup innovating ultrasound technology with AI
(she/her) INTERROBANG
A London medical startup is gaining global recognition for its innovative use of artificial intelligence (AI) in ultrasound technology. Deep Breathe, located in Western University’s Research Park, has developed an AI-powered program to interpret lung ultrasound results in real-time.
The groundbreaking technology has already garnered a significant international following, including recognition from the U.S. Army, which awarded the company $95,000 in a prestigious global competition called xTechInternational. The AI system provides rapid diagnostic assistance in critical situations.
“Imagine if you were in a car accident, and the paramedic would pick you up and typically, right now, you would have to get driven in the ambulance to the hospital, where you would get a chest x-ray and then be diagnosed, maybe an hour later, with
a collapsed lung, which is the condition that we’re looking for with this technology right now,” Data Science, Research, and Regulatory Affairs Manager of Deep Breathe Delaney Smith explained.
“What we’re envisioning is instead of that drawn-out process where you’re jeopardizing the patient’s life, you can diagnose them directly in the ambulance and then perform the lifesaving treatment right then and there.”
Deep Breathe’s innovation aims to eliminate that uncertainty by enabling field medics to make informed decisions almost instantly, all through a simple phone app connected to an ultrasound scanner.
“I feel very proud to be able to work on a problem that very few others are working on,” said Director of Machine Learning at Deep Breathe Blake VanBerlo.
“Doctors who can entirely harness the diagnostic power of all this now, but through our technology, make it much more accessible in many other parts of the world, hopefully in different circumstances and settings.”
The company, founded in 2021, has grown to a team of nine and
recently took first place out of 150 companies in the xTechInternational competition. Smith said the competition was a surreal experience.
“It was a very positive experience to be there with, you know, 12 other companies that are doing such incredible, incredible things on such a global scale. So, the recognition we got was just amazing to be a part of. And it’s a very positive experience overall,” Smith said.
The success at xTechInternational has opened new doors for the startup, not just in terms of funding but in networking opportunities as well. VanBerlo emphasized how this recognition could significantly boost the company’s growth prospects.
“Winning this competition puts us in a position where we can meet a number of other individuals who are focused on building technology for the military. It really puts us in, and it opens the door for us to connect with those kinds of folks, which, in turn, in the future, could lead to potential commercial opportunities for the company, ultimately leading to our scale,” he said.
The innovation extends beyond medicine and boosts the profile of London’s growing tech ecosystem. VanBerlo noted that London is part of a burgeoning AI community in Southwestern Ontario.
“I believe winning this kind of recognition will improve London’s visibility on the map regarding how artificial intelligence elements we live. We’re fortunate to live near the epicentre or in research and development, including Waterloo Region and Toronto. But I hope this recognition shows the world that London is part of southwestern Ontario’s
As the company continues to grow, Smith expressed gratitude for the support from their team and the London community.
“Someone kind of just starting in my career to have the opportunity to build this type of technology hands-on and be so involved in the process from the beginning and see it through to the end is something that I’m proud to get to do and get to do alongside just an incredible team of people who I admire and enjoy working with,” she said.
GREEN TECH SUMMIT
CREDIT: DELANEY SMITH
Delaney Smith and Dr. Rob Arntfield, CEO and founder of Deep Breathe competed at the xTechInternational in Spain in September.
Gracia Espinosa
Undercover ads on social media
Georgia Newman (she/her) INTERROBANG
Ads used to be easy to decipher on social media, but in today’s social media climate, almost anything can be an ad.
You will see Instagram influencers posting about a certain brand of clothes and you may not realize it, but they are partnered with that brand and the video is a subliminal ad.
A subliminal ad is defined as “the use by advertisers of images and sounds to influence consumers’ responses without their being conscious of it,” according to Oxford Languages.
I find TikTok to be the worst for these subliminal ads.
You can be watching a self-care video where everything they use is linked in their Amazon storefront, but little do you know the influencer is actually making a commission off of the purchases made from their Amazon.
TikTok and Instagram are used by young people, who are definitely not aware of these ads.
When I think about an ad, I think about commercials on TV, radio stations, and
even YouTube videos. These new ads are completely different and come off as a fun video rather than the ad that it is.
I think these subliminal ads can mean status for people watching them. You can watch a video about someone you see as a role model, where they are using a certain water bottle, and it can make it seem like you need the water bottle to live the life they are living.
We see trends go viral on TikTok every single week, which are more so ads than anything else. We saw it with Stanley Cups, UGGs, face fillers, face ice rollers, makeup headbands, LANEIGE lip masks, any e.l.f. makeup products, and even books.
BookTok has become an empire in itself, with books like It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover getting a movie adaptation after the uproar the book caused online. We saw books that are normally niche skyrocket like Haunting Adeline by H.D. Carlton. These videos we are seeing where people are just talking about books they like are all really an ad influencing you to buy more books you may not need, like, or, even read.
I think with how big social media has gotten in everybody’s day-to-day life, it’s important to be aware of how you are being influenced.
I recently finished reading the entire A Court of Thorns and Roses series by Sarah J. Maas, which I was heavily influenced to
Requiring ID for
You might not always be able to recognize it, but you are being constantly fed advertising online.
read from the amount of TikToks and Instagrams I was seeing about it. It was a very interesting experience. I had to stop going on Instagram and TikTok because I was seeing so many videos regarding the series that had spoilers. I will say that after I finished the series, it does feel like I am now part of a community where all these videos are things I can now relate to now that I’ve read the series.
I think this sort of mentality is what is getting people to buy in the first place. That feeling of being a part of the community has made me want to continue reading viral BookTok books so I can continue to be a part of the conversation.
I think overall, these ads are making overconsumption of products normalized and are aiding in the massive debt issues people are facing.
online pornography
is way too Big Brother for my liking
Jack Sutton (he/him) INTERROBANG
“There’s no place for the state in the bedrooms of the nation.”
Our 15th prime minister, Pierre Elliott Trudeau, said this to a reporter in 1967 in defence of a bill that decriminalized homosexuality in Canada. While Trudeau Sr. was referring to what goes on between two consenting adults in the privacy of their own home, surely it should be extended to one single adult and what they do in, um, private as well.
The government of Italy recently made a somewhat controversial decision. Starting next year, anyone wishing to visit a pornography site will be required to log in using their SPID, a sort of online ID number. Of course, they say that people’s privacy will be paramount, but does anyone really trust their government with something as sensitive as their porn history? Even if they really do take safeguards to protect people’s data, it’s just…weird. As the young people say, it gives me the ick Italy is not the only place where the government has decided to tie your online habits to your ID. Several states in the American South have also taken similar measures. Eleven states have implemented age-verification laws for adult websites requiring viewers to upload a photo of their ID. Tennessee became the most recent, in June of this year.
Of course, this is all in the name of protecting the children — a noble cause, sure, but I have one big concern about this kind of approach: what kind of governments are in power, or will be in power in the future?
The Italian government is currently led by Giorgia Meloni. For those who are unfamiliar with her policies and general outlook on life, I think the best way to sum her up is Mussolini Light — like Bud Light… but for fascism. Her government made it a priority to strip 2SLGBTQIA+ people of parental rights, from removing non-biological same-sex parents from their child’s birth certificate, to recently making surrogacy a universal crime. Is this the kind
of government you want to know that you watched same-sex or trans porn? Probably not.
In the US, the states that have passed similar laws are all Republican states (of course). With all the talk of Project 2025 and its stance on pornography, it makes me feel a bit uneasy about the possible consequences of future legislation when they have a record of each person’s porn viewing habits. It just gives major Big Brother vibes, and not the fun TV show — the original version. It’s from a book called 1984. Read it. Look, I totally agree that pornography can be damaging to those under 18, and there should absolutely be a better way to
prevent them from accessing it. But definitely not at the expense of everyone else’s privacy and, depending on the specifics of one’s browser history, dignity
At the end of the day, teenagers have always found a way to look at pornography, whether online today or in magazines in the 20th century. Even the ancient Greeks were painting it all over their pottery. And you know what? The world hasn’t ended. So I sincerely hope our country has the sense to come up with a better way of handling this than creeping on our search history like some closet-pervert puritans. Some things are just better kept private. Also, VPNs exist…
CREDIT: URUPONG
Artistry y
IN THE
AI ERA
Espinosa (she/her) | Interrobang
Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly making its way into creative industries, sparking both fascination and fear among artists and musicians. AI’s potential is immense, yet it also poses significant challenges related to intellectual property, consent, and the essence of human creativity. As AI-generated songs and illustrations increase, we face a new reality that scholars like Oliver Bown from the University of New South Wales have termed, “The robot soundscape.”
The integration of AI in music production once seemed exciting. Musicians and composers were curious about AI’s ability to create new sounds and compositions, potentially reducing barriers for emerging artists. However, there are growing concerns about copyright infringement and the ethical use of AI-generated content, mainly when it involves works by living artists.
For example, TikTok user Ghostwriter977 released a song titled “Heart on My Sleeve” on April 4, 2023. The song employed AI voice filters to replicate the voices of Drake and The Weeknd with such accuracy that some listeners believed it was a new collaboration between the two artists. Consequently, this caused significant discussion about the ethical implications of the project. Later, Drake and The Weeknd both stated they did not consent to this.
Last year, in a historic move, the Recording Academy announced that only human creators are eligible for the Grammy Awards, explicitly stating that, “a work without human authorship is not eligible in any category.” Separately, earlier this year, Universal Music Group (UMG) and electronic instrument maker Roland Corporation teamed up to create a set of guidelines that the companies published under Principles for Music Creation with AI.
The manifesto establishes seven basic principles:
• Music is fundamental for humanity;
• Humanity and music are inseparable; Technology has long supported human artistic expression and, applied sustainably, AI will amplify human creativity;
• Works created by humans should be respected and protected;
• Transparency is essential for responsible and trustworthy AI;
• The perspectives of musical artists, composers, and other creators should be sought and respected;
• And pride in helping bring music to life.
Both the Grammy’s decision and that of UMG and Roland Corporation underscore the tension between the potential of AI and the need to preserve human artistic integrity.
Generating...
However, the influence of AI extends beyond music. Generative AI tools like ChatGPT and Stable Diffusion train through extensive datasets that may contain copyrighted material. While these tools do not directly replicate, they can learn and produce results that violate copyright protections.
“Generative AI uses deep learning to understand the relationships between data points, such as which brushstrokes tend to follow others in a painting style,” said Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning coordinator at Fanshawe College, Jim Cooper. “This allows AI to create images that can be remarkably similar to copyrighted works.”
The core of the debate around AI in the arts revolves around intellectual property and consent. Sony Music Entertainment, Universal Music Group Recordings, and Warner Records Inc. have all filed copyright infringement lawsuits against AI music generation services Suno and Udio. These lawsuits raise questions about whether using copyrighted materials to train AI constitutes infringement and whether there should be a “fair use” exemption to copyright law.
“Copyright infringement is a major ethical issue with large language models and generative AI,” Cooper noted. “These models consume billions of words, images, and sounds, many of which are protected by copyright. The challenge is ensuring that AI-generated content doesn’t violate these protections.”
Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach. Policymakers and regulators must establish clear guidelines to ensure that AI-generated content respects intellectual property rights. Companies developing these tools must also implement robust filtering mechanisms to prevent copyright infringement.
“There are no established methods for building guardrails into generative AI yet,” Cooper said. “However, companies could restrict model outputs and use filtering to limit copyright infringement. Regulation may also be necessary to ensure compliance and protect creators’ rights.”
It looks like the music industry is already taking steps in this direction. YouTube has begun talks with Sony, Universal and Warner to licence music for AI tools.
For AI to positively impact the arts, consent and collaboration must be the primary focus. Artists such as Grimes and Killy have openly allowed their voices to be used in AI-generated music, highlighting the significance of consent in this new creative environment.
The rise of AI-generated music and art also demands we rethink traditional notions of authorship and creativity. While AI can assist in the creative process, human input remains essential. As Cooper put it, “AI is a tool that can enhance creativity but cannot replace the human touch.”
Gracia
Gracia Espinosa (she/her) | Interrobang
Understanding and implementing cybersecurity practices is crucial as the frequency of cyber threats and their sophistication increases. Cyber attacks can lead to identity theft, financial loss, and the collecting of personal information. Here are 10 tips to keep yourself safe online.
1. MULTI-FACTOR AUTHENTICATION (MFA)
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is a security method that requires users to verify their identity through an additional method beyond a password, such as a code sent to a secondary device or authentication app. For example, to access Fanshawe resources, students must verify their identity using the Microsoft Authenticator app instead of just a username and password. While not foolproof, MFA significantly enhances security compared to relying solely on passwords.
2. MANAGE SYSTEM UPDATES AND PATCH INSTALLATION
Regularly updating software and applying patches is fundamental in closing security gaps and minimizing attack risks. Ignoring updates can sometimes lead to catastrophic consequences, such as data breaches, system crashes, and loss of sensitive information. Always prioritize installing the latest patches to safeguard your information.
3. STRONG PASSWORDS
Even with MFA, it’s essential to encourage students to create long, complex passwords that combine characters, symbols, and numbers. Password managers like Dashlane or NordPass can help generate and store secure passwords, which reduces the risk of unauthorized access. It’s also essential to regularly update your passwords, especially if you’ve been notified that your password was found in a data breach. By doing so, you can take proactive action to minimize the risk of unauthorized access. Reusing passwords for multiple accounts is also risky. If one account is compromised, any others that use the same password are also vulnerable. In a 2023 TechTarget’s Enterprise Strategy Group survey, 45 per cent of respondents reported experiencing credential compromises in the past year, resulting in successful cyberattacks in 59 per cent of cases.
4.
RECOGNIZE PHISHING SCAMS
Phishing is a malicious cyber attack method where attackers pretend to contact victims from trusted sources to steal sensitive
information. This usually occurs through email (smishing) or phone calls (vishing). “Spear phishing,” meanwhile, targets specific people or organizations, while “whaling” targets high-profile executives. Some signs of phishing attempts include unusual requests for personal information or urgent actions, grammatical errors, unfamiliar email domains, and offers that seem too good to be true. Always verify suspicious emails by contacting the purported sender through official channels and if you have any doubts about a sender, always contact your organization to let them know.
However, using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) can provide a sense of security and peace of mind by maintaining the anonymity of the users, making it more difficult for others to monitor or intercept their online activities.
7.
REGULAR BACKUPS AND ENCRYPTION
If your computer unexpectedly stops working, having a backup of your saved data is handy. Always remember to back up your essential data and the files you’ve been recently working on. This way, in the event of any issues, you can continue working without being affected by the loss of your device. The same is true for encryption. Never underestimate the importance of encrypting your data. If you experience a cyber-attack, the hacker will have difficulty accessing your information. If someone steals your device, having encryption adds an extra layer of security before you remotely wipe it.
8. DOWNLOAD ANTI-VIRUS SOFTWARE
Install trusted security software on all your devices, such as McAfee or Norton Antivirus. The Canadian government’s Get Cyber Safe webpage includes many tips for keeping your devices safe as well as advice for the best anti-virus software options.
9. MODIFY ROUTER SETTINGS
5. AVOID CLICKING SUSPICIOUS LINKS
Receiving spam through email, text, or phone calls has unfortunately become a regular part of daily life. You might get an email asking you to click on a link to receive a prize or come across a job posting for a position that seems too good to be true. In such cases, it’s best to refrain from clicking on these links if you have any doubts. They could contain malware that can cause serious harm to your computer. Malware is a general term for programs or files designed to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorized access to computer systems.
6. BE CAUTIOUS USING
PUBLIC WI-FI
Many public spaces, such as cafés, restaurants, and stores, provide free Wi-Fi access to guests, which can be a great way to save data usage. However, it’s essential to be cautious when connecting to these accessible networks. Using an unsecured public Wi-Fi network can make your private information vulnerable to theft and your device susceptible to hacking.
Regarding home networking, your router is the core of your household. Many people only perform basic tasks when installing their router or they leave the default settings preconfigured by their Internet service provider for convenience. It’s essential to protect your router so that you can browse the Internet safely.
10. NEVER ASSUME YOU’RE SAFE
You may have dismissed the idea that you could ever be hacked. You might think it’ll likely never happen to you. But these things are hard to predict. New malware could emerge, or a hacker could get your password through deceptive methods. These are all possibilities to remember, and preventive measures can significantly help protect your online presence.
By following these 10 steps, users can reduce the risk of cyber-attacks. Remaining vigilant and informed is vital to safeguarding your information.
HOW REMOTE WORKING IS MADE POSSIBLE DUE TO TECH
VIDEO CONFERENCING
Zoë Alexandra King (she/her) | Interrobang
One of the most lasting outcomes of the COVID-19 pandemic was the increase in technologies designed to support remote work and online learning. As someone who works remotely and who studied remotely during the pandemic, I’ve found that there are a number of software options and platforms that can help make online working a breeze.
There are a few different video conferencing platforms that can be utilized to hold meetings, webinars, training, and much more over the computer or telephone. A very well-known video conferencing platform is Zoom as this was highly used during the height of the pandemic. While Zoom is very user friendly, it does limit its free usage to 40-minutes per call, which can be frustrating for small business owners who don’t have the budget to upgrade their account. Google Meet is probably my favourite video conferencing software because most businesses use G-Suite for emails, cloud storage, calendar, video conferencing, and more. With Google Meet, it’s extremely easy to schedule a video conference, as it’s just a click away on the Google calendar. Google Meet also sends out invitations to participants with the meeting link. Users of Google Meet can access 1:1 calls with no time limit, and with a party of 100 up to 60 minutes.
Video conferencing is probably one of the biggest tools that allows remote working to function seamlessly as it can often feel as though you are in-person.
CLOUD STORAGE
As technology changes with the times, we slowly started to see companies incorporate digital use in their systems and processes as opposed to strictly hard copies that needed to be kept in a filing cabinet. Prepandemic it would be more common to see companies using a hard and soft copy of documentation. Today, almost everyone has adapted to the idea of an online database. Google has a great cloud storage option, but Apple users may prefer to use their iCloud.
INDUSTRY-SPECIFIC TECHNOLOGIES
In addition to having a cloud service incorporated to companies using remote-working, there are also industry-specific technologies that can help boost the efficiency of a business’ operations. For example, companies that need to have an e-commerce system will need to incorporate an e-commerce platform to their website or any other ways payment methods are offered. Similarly, there are companies that either specialize in digital marketing or use social media as a tool for their business, and tools such as Timely, Hootsuite, Later, and many others. A lot of industries require specific needs in their businesses and technology has superseded in its offerings.
SOCIAL MEDIA
Using social media is pretty much a requirement for any business nowadays. This transition from traditional marketing to digital marketing created the need for positions that are often offered as remote positions. Without the inception of Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and other websites increasing sales for businesses, this industry might have looked very different. The topic of social media as a remoteworking job is quite vast as there could be remote digital marketing employees for companies and organizations or there could be social media influencers who aren’t tied to one company but make their money from marketing many companies often referred to as brand deals.
REMOTE-WORKING ENVIRONMENTS
Although this is less of a technological factor, there has also been the creation of co-working spaces designed for remote workers to have a space that gives them the feeling of being in an office. This is great for individuals who work remotely but crave the social aspect of the office or require a more structured space for focus. Those who work for companies far away from their office may utilize features such as co-working spaces. A well-known company for co-working spaces is Regus, which can be found in many different countries and even offers mail handling.
There are of course many jobs that still require an in-person presence. Some occupations that allow remote working include virtual assistant/ receptionist, digital marketer, journalist, graphic designer, online teacher, recruiter, social media influencer, therapist, and more. Some people enjoy working in the office and some people don’t. Giving employees the option to work in an environment where they are happiest can help boost their productivity and lower turnover rate, amongst many other benefits. There is also the option of hybrid work environments that some employers offer, and again this has all been made possible due to the rise in technology in remote workplaces.
BALANCING SCHOOL, WORK AND GAMING WHILE IN COLLEGE
Alex Allan (he/him) | Interrobang
It can be overwhelming for students only to focus on school work when they’ve just started their college journey. Although there are many other ways to take breaks from assignments or studying, video games are one way to take your mind off of school.
According to a study from Reviewlution, around 64 per cent of Canadians play video games on a regular basis. Most colleges nowadays even have places for students to play video games in between classes or have the opportunity to join Esport teams. With technology drastically changing year to year, video games have been a way to escape reality for a bit.
Students here at Fanshawe said that they enjoy having a place where they can go to game because it can help manage their school work. They have also been more intuitive to stay on a schedule to finish school work so they can go play video games.
Former captain of the Fuel Esports Overwatch team Albert Butros, also known as their gamer tag LightNReset, said they manage their time between school with gaming.
“I create a list of all my classes and tasks I need to get done throughout the week, I don’t waste time during class so I understand the content to my full ability. It means when I get home I don’t waste any time getting to my school work, I will take fiveminute breaks to refresh my memory once every 30 minutes or so. Then I can play for the rest of the night and do other training with my teammates and help them improve,” LightNReset said.
The balance can be a struggle for other college students though. Some assignments, projects and study sessions can be quite stressful. Since video games don’t require a lot of effort, it is an easy way to cling onto a certain game to distract yourself from the other stress that might be daunting to think about. Even though video games might be used to distract yourself from stressful work, Veronica Visla, also known by her gamer tag TheOddRadish, believes that gaming has helped towards her school work but it also can be tough.
“After I finish gaming, I still need to take a break afterwards before I jump into schoolwork, since I’m in the video game design program I actually critique the games I’m playing so it’s hard to jump back into school work after that,” TheOddRaddish said.
Even though video games are used to escape reality for a bit and get your mind off of other tasks at hand, it also has benefits while in school. One of those is that it teaches teamwork and this can be quite handy when students are having to work together on projects and in group settings.
“It has helped a lot with team building, I’ve noticed when I’m in class I will talk more to my classmates the next day if I was up a bit later gaming with friends online and I feel that it’s more of a safer environment for myself when I’m in class,” TheOddRadish said.
It will be interesting to see how video games will keep adapting into our day to day lives. From Valorant or even Candy Crush on your phone, games are a way to relieve some stress from our busy lives.
To buy or not to buy: Is the new iPhone worth it?
Jack Sutton (he/him) INTERROBANG
Seemingly gone are the days when people would scramble to preorder the latest iPhone, or line up early at the store in hopes of snagging one upon release. In 2014, when they unveiled the completely redesigned iPhone 6, it took some people over a month to get a hold of one (it’s me, I’m some people). But lately, with fewer and fewer changes to each new version — apart from the price tag — some people don’t seem convinced.
Apple released the iPhone 16 in September of this year, with prices starting at $1,129. What was new with the design? Well, it had a new button on the side for taking photos. That was about it. The more significant changes were internal, with the launch of Apple’s new AI software. Other than that, many features were the same as the iPhone 15 — although on the website they prefix some of those features with the words “latest generation” which must mean better, right? Apparently, many people did not think that they needed the “upgrade.”
Apple analyst Ming Chi Kuo broke down the numbers in a blog post, and found that, upon release, the latest model sold about 12.7 per cent fewer phones than the previous one. Not a massive difference, but possibly a sign that Apple should slow down.
The Interrobang spoke with people at Fanshawe to hear their thoughts on tech consumerism,
and whether or not they wanted to buy the latest iPhone.
“I think for some people, they’re just so obsessed with [Apple], that they’ll just buy any product,” said one man, who currently uses an iPhone 15 Pro. “I got mine around the time it got released, but I was wanting a new one for a while, otherwise I wouldn’t have bought it just to buy it, you know?”
Others said they were more likely to buy a new model upon release.
“Sometimes the new ones have really fun colours, so even if the phone is pretty much, like, the same as the last one, I just want it because they have a colour I like,” said one man, who uses an iPhone 14, but is considering buying a new one. “And I like to be the first one to have something new, so yeah, if I can afford it I’ll buy it, or maybe trade in my old one.”
Some people see the whole thing as just another form of consumerism and prefer to stay away from Apple entirely.
“They’re so overpriced as it is, and I just feel like Apple doesn’t have enough features to make it worth the price,” said one Android user. “I think Apple is like, consumerism at its worst. People just want it because Apple tells them it’s new, but it literally is almost the same product just with a new number on it.”
He added that brands like Samsung are also guilty of a similar type of consumerism, but he feels like the new features, like folding phones, make it worth buying for some people.
“At least they’re doing things that are new or unique, and usually cheaper than iPhones.”
CREDIT: CALEIGH REID
A new phone is usually more of a want than a need
Another woman who said she’s been a lifelong iPhone fan said that Apple doesn’t need to convince anyone to buy their phones.
“They are in such a good position now, in the market, that they barely even advertise,” she said.
“They know that the iPhone is literally the phone people want, and so they can just say a new version is coming out and they can put any price they want on it. The new one could literally be worse and I think people are going to buy it no matter what.”
She said she bought the iPhone 16 Pro a few weeks after it was released.
“Yeah, I bought it,” she admitted, holding up her newest device in Apple’s new Desert Titanium colour. “I buy, like, every other phone they release. I had a 14 Pro before this one. I know, I’m totally one of those people, but it makes me happy, so I don’t care.”
Effect of social media, technology on mental health
Georgia Newman (she/her) INTERROBANG
Social media and technology have made many advancements, with phones now being tiny computers where everything is available with the touch of your thumb.
These advancements have led to increased screen time, with the average Canadian spending one hour and 17 minutes a day on social media and more than six hours a day on the Internet in general, according to Statista.
“I think my average daily phone usage is at 11 hours, and that’s a decrease from last week,” one Fanshawe student said. “It’s just easy to get lost down rabbit holes on TikTok. I use it as a way to relax and unwind, especially at the end of the day.”
But this uptick in usage can actually have negative effects on our mental health.
Canadians who spend 10 hours or less on screens a week are reported to have better mental health, according to Statistics Canada.
Although it is proven that excessive screen time can have negative impacts on mental health, that hasn’t stopped the usage of screens or social media.
“It’s like a form of self-care, I like to use social media to watch videos I find funny or satisfying,” another Fanshawe student said.
“Yeah, I definitely compare myself to the people I see but I don’t think that’s necessarily bad.”
Social media is filled with influencers who post heavily edited photos and strictly the highlights from their lives.
“I try to limit the usage,” a Fanshawe student said. “At least once a week I delete like Snapchat or something because it sucks to see all these people thriving when you’re not and I compare where I am in my life versus these millionaire people and it just makes me feel bad and like I’m never gonna have that.”
Meta has recently introduced teen accounts for users under the age of 18. Teen accounts are restricted to limit offensive language and sensitive content like fighting, and the promotion of cosmetic surgery. All new accounts for users under 18 will automatically be placed in teen accounts and Meta is working to switch over all existing minor accounts to teen accounts.
“In an ever-evolving online world, this update ensures that young people can engage meaningfully and safely, fostering positive connections while still providing the protection they need,” said CEO and cofounder of Project Rockit, Lucy Thomas, in a Meta media release.
Although TikTok does have restrictions, there is nothing in place for younger users and they are able to access all the same content as anyone else.
“It’s super hard to regulate,” aspiring teacher, Teresa Pinder, said. “I think there are many benefits but unfortunately there are also downfalls that come with
Canadians are spending more time than ever in front of screens, and that might be doing damage to our minds.
social media. There are many profiles that highlight healthy lifestyles and positive self-images, but there is also so much judgment with comments and putting yourself out there at the risk of photos being reproduced.”
Social media and technology have proven to be a tool with many informational benefits. However, it is important to take a step back when necessary to ensure you maintain your mental health.
One in five Canadian teenagers have been affected by cyberbullying, according to Public Safety Canada.
CREDIT: GEORGIA NEWMAN
A twist on a classic at The Grand
Zoë Alexandra King (she/her) INTERROBANG
Opening Oct. 18, all Beatles-lovers are encouraged to visit The Grand for their production of As You Like It.
Daryl Cloran adapted and directed this production that has been performed in Chicago, Washington, Vancouver, and now to London’s well-known Grand Theatre. As You Like It will be on at The Grand, featuring some of the greatest Beatles hits, until Nov. 2. Students are reminded to book their tickets in advance to eliminate the fear of missing out!
After the Sarnia-born director adapted the Shakespeare’s Love’s Labour’s Lost to great success, he was given the question of what he would do if he “hypothetically” had the rights to The Beatles music. Cloran had to dream big and imagine how The Beatles music would pair with Shakespeare.
Approximately 24 Beatles songs combined with the Shakespeare of As You Like It shapes a love story between Rosalind and her lover Orlando.
“I think the characters from the play are all still there, the relationships are still recognizable of As You Like It,” Cloran said. “But we have substituted songs instead of monologues to continue the story.”
Although one would believe that there are certainly challenges in trying to fit the songs into an existing production, Cloran
This retelling of a Shakespeare classic features the instantly recognizable music of The Beatles.
explained that some of them just fit perfectly and were a match.
“There are times that it felt so easy to slide in The Beatles songs because semantically it was in exactly the right place,” Cloran said.
Students can expect a fun two hours and thirty minutes of Beatles music that tells the story
of this work of Shakespeare. A night to de-stress from reality and enter the world of Shakespeare, The Beatles, and love. Cloran hopes to continue growing this production after its time at The Grand and has been in contact with a few other theatres.
For those who haven’t dived into too much Shakespeare in the
past, As You Like It is a great gateway to The Bard. For students who are either Beatles or Shakespeare lovers, this is one that you simply don’t want to miss. If you’re planning a trip to The Grand this October or early November for this production, don’t forget to look out for one of the director’s favourite songs in the production,
CREDIT: DAHLIA KATZ
“You’ve Got to Hide Your Love Away” by The Beatles.
There is still a student rush this season which includes special pricing for students that can provide a valid student ID. Instructions on how to book a student ticket at The Grand can be found online under the Ways to Save subheading.
Uncertain future of Ubisoft amidst potential buyout
Konstantinos Drossos (he/him) INTERROBANG
Video game developer Ubisoft is exploring a potential buyout with Chinese investment firm Tencent.
This follows the company’s stock plunging almost 19 per cent this past year due to numerous project flops and title delays.
Tencent is no stranger to the world of developers, as they are well known for owning Riot Games and Epic Games.
In 2022, they bought into Ubisoft’s owners, Guillemot Brothers Limited (GBL), for a staggering
49.9 per cent. Fearing a takeover, the owners prohibited the investment company from owning more than a 10 per cent stake in Ubisoft, making it part of the deal, which could now be reversed.
George Georgallidis, a finance student who is also a fan of Ubisoft titles, feels that the potential buyout is good for the company’s future.
“I think Ubisoft getting bought out would be positive because the company has been struggling as a standalone company. The company has been delaying games constantly and the games they release have not had positive reception or the sales were below company expectations.”
Earlier last month, Ubisoft
Have any questions or comments about Fanshawe’s Mission, Vision, Values or board policies?
BOG.student@FanshaweC.ca
Student Representative to The Board of Governors
announced the delay of the next installment in their major title, Assassins Creed , until February of 2025. This call was made in response to the disaster launch of Star Wars: Outlaws and Skull and Bones which happened this past year.
Since the latter portion of 2023, Ubisoft’s release titles have been on a decline, leaving many fans of their titles disappointed. This release was the start of the downward spiral that brought the company to the low point at which they are right now.
One of the anticipated titles following that was the long-awaited Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora , which Ubisoft and their subsidiary, Massive Entertainment, had been working on since it was first announced in 2017.
Due to constant delays, the game underperformed in sales which tallied up to $133 million, which they see as a flop considering Massive’s Division series collectively garnered over $500 million on their launch dates.
Ubisoft also hyped their take on the intergalactic world of Star Wars with their release of Star Wars: Outlaws, which they also claimed to be the first open world for the franchise.
The game’s launch was nothing but rocky, with fans complaining about a variety of technical issues as well as their experience while
playing the storyline.
According to gaming outlet Insider Gaming, the title sold only one million copies and collected about $70 million in revenue.
In the past, Ubisoft’s financial battles with previous stakeholders attempting to take them over have always been in the limelight of industry news.
In 2015, French media giant Vivendi started its attempt to take over Ubisoft. GBL saw this as a threat and ensued a three-year struggle with Vivendi. It wasn’t until 2018, when GBL appealed to Tencent to invest in their company, that they agreed on a partnership to bring their game titles to the Chinese market.
This prompted Vivendi to completely divest all of their shares by 2019, which now has led to where they currently stand today with Tencent.
Much like the Vivendi fiasco of 2015, Ubisoft is back in a similar spot, except this time, without many options. With the issue surrounding the hit in their market value, the company has found itself in a hard ditch to jump out of.
“The company has been struggling. As of Oct. 18, Ubisoft’s stock is down 41.37 per cent. From the gamer perspective, it could be positive due to Tencent coming in and attempting to fix the issues Ubisoft has in the development
A series of delays and underwhelming releases have led to Ubisoft facing the potential of a buyout.
process and their management,” said Georgallidis.
Georgallidis feels it’s in the best interest of not only the company but also the current projects they have in the works and their future.
“I think the companies’ titles such as Assassins Creed would be positively affected if a company like Tencent which is large in the gaming industry takes the company over. Tencent has a good track record and they could change management or fix inefficiencies in the development process.”
Ubisoft number of employees tallies over 20,000 developers across 45 studios worldwide. Three of their studios are located here in Canada, with all of them labelled as flagship offices. They are located in Toronto, Montreal and Quebec City.
CREDIT: UBISOFT
ACROSS
Across
1. Edible stuff
1. Edible stuff
5. Take __ view of
5. Take __ view of 9. Pre-USSR rulers 14. “O __, all ye faithful ...”
9. Pre-USSR rulers
14. "O __, all ye faithful ..."
15. Credit union take-back
15. Credit union take-back
16. Earth Day month
16. Earth Day month
17. *Southeastern tribe forced to move to Indian Territory
17. *Southeastern tribe forced to move to Indian Territory
Choose to stay calm these next few weeks and to channel your excess energy into something constructive. An emotional commitment will help stabilize your life. A relationship adjustment will make you think about future prospects and how best to move forward. Don’t feel you have to stick to traditional means and methods. Follow the path that feels most compatible. An opportunity that comes your way should be considered. Romance is in the stars. Listen, discuss your thoughts and control your temper. Patience and compromise will be required to avoid a stalemate.
Taurus
Secrets will finally be revealed. Protect your identity, money and reputation. Emotions will help shape the decisions you make. Rely on someone you trust to help redirect a snap decision you may regret. You are best to play it safe and avoid being sorry. Only engage in activities that include your allies. Keep close tabs on your finances and medical issues. When in doubt, ask an expert. Keeping updated and being on time will be imperative. A change of pace will energize you. A reunion, day trip or educational pursuit is favoured.
Gemini
Pay close attention these next few weeks. Question anyone who puts limits on what you can do. A change may not be initially apparent. Observe what everyone else is doing, and you will be able to deflect a problem before it escalates. Trust your instincts, and make the changes you feel are necessary. Emotions will be close to the surface. Try not to overreact to situations at school or home. Be aware that someone will try to evade issues or skirt the truth. Do your best to catch up. Look for alternative ways to cut corners and still be unique.
Cancer
Remain calm in the face of a storm. Refuse to let what others do interfere with your plans. Focus on personal goals. Stop dreaming about making a change and start taking action. Once you take the first step in a new direction, you will find it easy to keep moving forward. Be innovative and proactive. You’ll face issues and uncertainty regarding your vocational path. Take a moment to sort out what it is you want to do and how best to go about preparing. Much can be accomplished if you accept the changes going on around you. Share your feelings and you’ll clear up any uncertainty that prevails in your personal life.
Leo
Don’t take detours when you are on the right path. You need to be fully aware of what’s going on around you to avoid getting involved in someone’s dilemma. Don’t get involved in a discussion that could lock you into something you don’t really want to do. Look inward, focus on personal growth, health and enjoying what life has to offer. Get involved in something that you believe in and you will meet people who have something interesting to offer. Personal improvements can be made, and romance will enhance your life. Don’t take chances. Listen attentively, but don’t reveal your thoughts. How others perceive you will make a difference.
Virgo
You’ll be given false information from someone who has an emotional interest in how you move forward. Don’t make a change until you verify what’s revealed. An opportunity to learn, travel and gain insight will lead to a proposal that can alter your life. Consider the changes you want to make, and take advantage of what’s being offered. You’ll have to make concessions if you want someone to comply with your request. Mix business with pleasure to help make a transition easier for both you and someone you love. Take an interest in what others do. Your help will lead to secure alliances with those who work alongside you.
Review your relationships and consider who you want to align yourself with moving forward. Your circle will represent who you are, as well as what you believe. Choose wisely. Hello Kijiji. Buying and selling will be in your best interest. There is money to be made and overhead to be lowered. Worry less about what others are doing and more about how well you are taking care of your physical and emotional well-being and your relationships with people you love. A past emotional situation will surface. Don’t take the bait or give in to pressure being put on you.
Scorpio
An offer that uses emotional tactics to lure you in should be avoided. Bide your time and revisit your options. Getting together with someone experienced will help you understand the possibilities and how best to take advantage of a situation that is brewing. Consider what you want to do and the cost involved before you begin. Use your intelligence, and you’ll come up with a plan that is cost-efficient and can offer benefits to your health and well-being. An adjustment you make at home or to the way you live or manage your funds will ease your stress and encourage greater prosperity.
Sagittarius
Your friendly demeanor and generosity will make you appear vulnerable to someone who wants to take advantage of you. Pick and choose who you associate with and assist. A change will take place concerning how you earn your living or who you collaborate with if you attend a networking function. Being part of a team will bring out the best in you. Put your heart on the line and you will find out where you stand. A commitment can be made, and a romantic event should be on your agenda. Projects need to be looked at carefully. Wellthought-out plans will prevent criticism or interference.
Capricorn
Keep your plans a secret until you are satisfied with the results you get. A change at home should not be public knowledge until finalized. Work from home when possible. You’ll accomplish more if you can avoid outside interference. A unique position will be made available that will help you up your income. Take care of your physical and emotional well-being. Spend more time with youngsters or people who make you smile and less time with those who prompt you to be indulgent. Share your thoughts and feelings with someone you love, and together you will come up with a good plan.
Aquarius
Don’t miss out on an opportunity because someone disrupts your plans. It’s up to you to follow through, even if that means going alone. Distance yourself from anyone playing mind games with you. Host an event that will put you front and centre. How you relate to others will make a difference to how much help you receive. Romance is on the rise, and a positive adjustment to the way you live is encouraged. Listen, reflect and consider what you are willing to contribute before you commit. Don’t give in to pressure tactics.
Pisces
Money matters should be looked at carefully over the next few weeks. Keep your spending habits to a minimum. Emotional encounters should be handled with diplomacy. Reconnect with someone from your past and you’ll be offered information that can help you get ahead. A joint venture looks inviting. Stress can lead to poor health. Take a deep breath, evaluate your situation and distance yourself from anyone who tries to manipulate you. It’s best to invest in yourself. If you are passionate about what you have to offer, others will give in to your demands.
Editorial Cartoon by Mauricio Franco
Falcons men’s golf team makes history
The 2024 OCAA Provincial Golf Championships wrapped up on Oct. 2 at the Barrie Country Club, hosted by Georgian College. The Falcons men’s golf team earned a silver medal for their impressive performance.
With a total score of 925 (61 over par), the Falcons finished tied for second place with Humber College. Ben Landers, from Delaware, led the team with a strong fourth-place finish and a score of 228 (12 over par) over three days. His teammate, Luke Evans from Georgetown, was close behind in fifth place with a score of 229 (13 over par). The rest of the team included John Van Bilsen (10th place with a score of 235), Griffen Rowe (18th place with a score of 238), and Austin Kuiack (25th place with a score of 244).
Landers and Evans were recognized as part of the OCAA All-Ontario Team for their top performances.
Next, the Falcons competed in the CCAA National Championship from Oct. 14 to Oct. 18 at RedCrest Golf Club hosted by Humber College.
Evans made history by winning the individual gold medal, the
first ever for a Falcons golfer at this tournament. The Falcons also secured the national team silver medal, marking their best team finish in history. Joining Evans on the individual podium was teammate Landers, who won the bronze medal.
Evans had an outstanding performance, finishing with a four-day total of 288 (4 over par), which set a new Fanshawe record for the best score at a CCAA tournament, surpassing the previous record set by Mitchell Hampson in 2022. He scored rounds of 71, 76, 71, and 70 to clinch the championship. Landers followed closely behind in third place with a total score of 296, with rounds of 73, 73,
72, and 78. Both golfers received CCAA All-Canadian honours for their exceptional performances. As a team, Fanshawe finished with a strong four-day total of 1,197 (61 over par). The medal-winning squad had strong performances from John Van Bilsen (7th place with a score of 300), who was also named CCAA All-Canadian, as well as Austin Kuiack (32nd place with a score of 316) and Griffen Rowe (33rd place with a score of 317). The team’s success was guided by Head Coach, Colin Robertson and Assistant Coach, Stuart Kidon, whose leadership was crucial to the Falcons’ historic performance at the CCAA championship.
Men’s soccer team awarded for season accomplishments
With soccer season wrapping up, the Falcons men’s team finished fourth in the regular season. In the first playoff round, the Falcons battled it out against the Algonquin Wolves, who currently sit at first in the East division. The birds came up short, losing 2-1. Despite the tough end to the season, the team is being honoured by OCAA with league awards for their accomplishments.
The head coach of the Falcons men’s soccer team, Rob Pereira, is being recognized as the OCAA West Division’s Coach of the Year for the fifth time in his nine years as a Falcon. This season he led the birds to a 7-3 record.
Four Falcons were named to the OCAA First West Division AllStar Team. The birds’ captain, Eric Savoie, was recognized for his strong defence which he carried throughout the season while also managing to make three goals and two assists.
Jakob Bancewicz, Falcons striker, also joins Savoie on the AllStar list with his record of seven goals, the most on the team, and
eighth in the OCAA. Dylan DaSilva, Falcons goalkeeper, received First Team All-Star honours with a save percentage of .763 and goals against average of 1.08. Dante D’Oria joins the OCAA West Division All-Rookie Team, as well as the OCAA First West Division All-Star team. D’Oria put out three assists and three goals for the Falcons this season. Fanshawe midfielder Juan Sebastian Gomez Galeano was named an OCAA Second Team All-Star for his excellent play throughout the season. The Falcons will return to play, seeking continued success next season.
CREDIT: DIEGO GUILLEN
The Falcons men’s golf team secured a team silver, among other podium finishes at the CCAA championship.
CREDIT: JADE SUMPTON Falcons soccer coach, Rob Pereira, has been recognized as the OCAA West Division’s Coach of the Year for the fifth time in his nine years as a Falcon.
