The Ontarion - 200.2

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Ongoing CFRU project recording the largest oral history archive of elders in Guelph

4 Celebrating Black History Month at U of G

A look into this year’s Hillside Inside

5. Perspectives on navigating predominantly white institutions ‘A party with a purpose’: Relay for Life returns Mar. 7

6. The creativity of our planet

8. Winter storms create mobility barriers for Guelph residents

9. Landscape Architecture Guest Lecture Series features Nick Onody

10. Three ongoing developments in Guelph to propel the city’s future

11. Food security in Canada: Planting seeds for a better future

12. OPIRG’s Rebel Knowledge Symposium returns in February

13. 'MAGA Minaj' makes headlines after Nicki Minaj praises Donald Trump

14. Guelph rapper Optikz sets his sights on recovery Three easy projects for hosting a craft night

15. Understanding and celebrating Chinese New Year

16. Christianity, colonialism and the blues in Sinners

17. Heating up TV: The phenomenon of Heated Rivalry

18. The Sisterhood of Creativity is a sweet way to meet new friends Who the (quack) is Geese?

19. Busy Reading: There’s lots to love about Canadian romance

20 & 21. Sold-out Sleeman Centre heats up as Gryphons claim 3-1 win against Badgers in Frosty Mug rivalry

22. The Game Awards 2025: A victory for indie gaming

23. February Student Wellness events on campus

24. A gentle guide to embracing dark evenings Winter programming at the Arboretum

25. New year, new rankings How to become ‘chronically offline’

26. Hearty winter soups to warm you this season Women’s hockey: She’s Got Game

Ongoing CFRU project recording the largest oral history archive of elders in Guelph

Bridging the Social Distance has aired 168 interviews with Riverside Glen residents since the project began in 2020

EMMERSON JULL

ACFRU collaboration with the Village of Riverside Glen, initially meant to bridge the isolation senior residents were feeling

during the Covid-19 pandemic, has since transformed into the largest oral history archive of Guelph’s elders.

Lloyd Hetherington moved into Riverside Glen a day before quarantine measures struck in 2020. Hetherington and some of his fellow residents had been interviewed by the CBC about their experience of Covid-19 in the retirement community; but he was frustrated with how they had been represented in the media. Hetherington suggested to Riverside Glen’s General Manager, Bryce McBain, that they find a way to authentically share the resident’s stories.

Luckily, they knew just the person for the task.

Jenny Mitchell, CFRU volunteer and mobile studio coordinator, had been sporadically airing episodes with Riverside Glen residents as part of her mobile radio programming since 2017. In the early days of the pandemic, she had already kickstarted a project to combat isolation and offer a platform for community connection. Known as “Bridging the Social Distance,” Mitchell aired her first episode on Mar. 18, 2020—only seven days after the World Health Organization declared Covid-19 a global pandemic.

McBain got in touch with Mitchell, and the two found a way to set up minimal equipment in the resident's rooms. Mitchell would interview the residents over Zoom and air them online. Her first Bridging the Social Distance collaboration with Riverside Glen featured none other than Hetherington, and it went online in June 2020.

Mitchell credits Hetherington for setting the tone of the project. Although the pandemic “factored into a lot of our conversations,” she said, “it was stories about the past, about growing up, about many other things that people had experienced, including living through really horrific, heavy, other periods of history, and how that gave them perspective for this one.”

Operations have moved back in-person, and Mitchell has recorded interviews with 168 elders since 2020. She visits Riverside Glen weekly to record new episodes.

McBain and Mitchell are ideal partners for the project. “I needed that personal connection that Bryce has of building trust with the residents and them having a bit more context going in,” Mitchell said. Together, the two ensure residents are cared for and the interviews are carefully planned— preconditions for interviewees to feel comfortable telling their stories.

The effects of this project have been pronounced for Riverside Glen residents and their families. Since Mitchell publishes each interview on Substack, families can easily return to the episodes of their loved ones and hear their voices, even if the resident has passed away. According to McBain, some residents like to re-listen to their own interviews. “It's meaningful for each of the individuals being interviewed to leave behind a record of their story,” he said. Now, when new residents move into the

village, McBain asks if they’d be interested in being a part of the project, too.

Radio is a “beautiful equalizer,” said Mitchell. “We don’t need to worry about bodies or limitations.” Regardless of a person’s support needs, Mitchell gives them patience and a platform to share their stories. She’s not concerned with accuracy or historical fact, which has been liberating for residents, particularly those who struggle with memory-related issues.

Throughout many cultures, oral histories have been important to record history and transmit knowledge to future generations. McBain and Mitchell have similar hopes for the archive they’re creating—that the Guelph community can return to these episodes and soak in the diversity of perspectives and stories our elders have shared.

Ultimately, McBain is proud of the project and grateful for Mitchell’s commitment to it. He’s hopeful that their collaboration not only combats social isolation and ageism, but demonstrates the possibilities for leadership in the senior living sector.

“I think it's creative and innovative, and I do think it's important to recognize how we've sustained it,” McBain said. “Jenny helps our residents feel like they have a legacy. They have important stories to tell.”

Visit the archive and listen to the interviews at bridgingthesocialdistance.substack.com

Celebrating Black History Month at U of G

Students share their thoughts on recognizing Black culture in February

RACHEL FIORET

Black History Month has been celebrated in Canada for 30 years, with the month being officially recognized by the House of Commons in 1995.

This year, Black History Month is being celebrated on campus through various events and learning opportunities hosted by a committee of people, including

Cultural Diversity and the Guelph Black Students Association.

In an interview with The Ontarion, two students shared their reflections about celebrating Black History Month.

“It’s that section of the year where we really get to see and highlight the contributions that Black people have made to soci-

ety,” said Roshaun Marchall, second-year computer science student.

Specifically, contributions to music, art, innovation and technology.

“Oftentimes we see the history of other people highlighted throughout the year, but sadly a lot Black history gets stifled throughout that, even now we’re just learn-

A look into this year’s Hillside

Inside

Guelph’s beloved hometown music festival returns for an annual winter celebration

MADISON BOUTILIER

On the last weekend of January, Guelph will celebrate another year of Hillside Inside, a multi-day festival of music and culture, held together by the unique artistic vision that gives Hillside its charm. Royal City Mission will welcome festival-

goers into a hub for communal learning through workshops, artistic representation and music for the weekend.

Hillside is well known for its annual summer event that has taken place on Guelph Lake Island since 1984. The festival

quickly captured local attention and its growing success led to Hillside Inside’s debut in the winter of 2008.

Behind the festival’s rich music scene, diverse selection of food vendors and commitment to multi-cultural representation,

Looking ahead to February, Marchall shared that he’s most looking forward to attending the cooking class, African Street Eats. The cooking workshop will be hosted by The African Student Association and will teach students how to prepare foods like Puff Puff and Zobo.

Fifth-year applied human nutrition student Opeyemi Oloyede is hosting the event.

“I’m extremely excited to pass down these recipes that I’ve learned from people before me and to connect with people by food,” she said.

Oloyede shared that Black History Month is more than looking at history–it’s about looking at the present and the future.

“The month to me is about making space, holding space, for us to tell our own stories and to showcase our culture,” said Oloyede. “It gives us a chance just to share all of this with other people and to show people how black culture continues to shape our society today.”

ing things that should’ve been apparent many years ago,” Marchall said.

When asked about his experience as a Black student at U of G, Marchall said, “The community that we do have that’s actually tight knit together, we’re a very strong force and that’s something that I value very deeply.”

Hillside’s roots reveal a deeper meaning: “Community without borders,” said Hillside’s Artistic Director, Sam Baijal. “It’s a community of like-minded people, it doesn’t have to do with your postal code.”

This year’s event calendar is full of workshops put on by local artists and craftspeople, including yoga, dancing, candle-making, crafts and other hands-on activities. The celebration of regional music artists makes up a significant part of Hillside’s origin, and the Inside event hopes to offer something for everybody.

Canadian singer-songwriters Donovan Woods and AHI will kick off the festival on Friday, Jan. 30 at Royal City Mission, followed by the talents of Housewife, the Youth Jamschool Showcase, and Girls & Guitars on Saturday, Jan. 31. When programming wraps up, crowds are expected to

“I feel like a lot of times we’re conforming to a box of, this is how we’re expected to show up and we can only show up in that one way or a variation of that same way. I would like people to be celebrated in the fact that you can show up in however feels authentic to you and however you feel comfortable expressing yourself,” Oloyede said. Upcoming event details for Black History Month can be found on GryphLife here: https:// gryphlife.uoguelph.ca/events?categories=1224

“This year we’ve had the largest committee and for the first time we have representatives from the colleges,” said Amelia Kezaabu, the Cultural Diversity program coordinator. “We’re very excited for the events taking place.”

gather at the River Run Centre to hear classic feel-good renditions from Dwayne Gretzky, a group deemed Canada’s greatest party band.

A new musical event was added this year to Hillside’s list of creative pursuits: The Eramosa Sessions are a tribute to Guelph’s rich music scene, featuring a group of veteran Hillside musicians working in collaboration with a variety of local guest performers.

“It’s a little festival with a big reputation,” explained Baijal. “It didn’t take very long for the word to start getting out that there was something going on here that was not like anything else.”

In case you couldn’t make it, Hillside will return to Guelph Lake Island this summer for a wholesome weekend of celebration on July 17 to 19, with tickets currently available online.

Perspectives on navigating predominantly white institutions

Cultural Diversity and Student Experience hosted a panel on Jan. 20 with reflections from Black and racialized students

ATHAVI NISHAANTHAN

On Jan. 20, Cultural Diversity and Student Experience hosted the Navigating a Predominantly White Institution: Student Panel Discussion event.

The event featured a panel of four Black and racialized students: Mariam Ashraf, Marie-Gabrielle Ayika, Roshaun Marchall, and Prakrithi Sharon Monteiro.

Each panelist shared their experiences navigating the University of Guelph—a predomi-

nantly white institution—and discussed the lack of diversity, isolation and underrepresentation that Black and racialized students face. The panelists were joined by Ethie Iluebbey, core peer facilitator for the Cultural Diversity team, and Yolanda Grant, social events coordinator of the Guelph Black Student’s Association, as emcees for the event.

To finish the event, the Cul-

tural Diversity team allocated time for networking and provided icebreaker prompts, allowing attendees to connect and bond with other Black and racialized students. This portion of the event aimed to mitigate the isolation that Black and racialized students commonly face in predominantly white institutions.

Black and racialized students in predominantly white institutions can experience negative impacts to their mental health and wellbeing. This is particularly true when students

come to these institutions from diverse cities with more cultural representation; leaving them to deal with social isolation, culture shock and imposter syndrome.

“It's like if you dressed up in a full mascot costume and then you went to class. You just feel like you're wearing something different, or like you look different than other people,” said Illuebbey. “Most of the time you don't even think about it. But when you go into class, sometimes, it’s just the way the people look at you.”

‘A party with a purpose’: Relay for Life returns Mar. 7

Increasing cancer awareness at U of G

STEPHEN DOIG

By the time the sun sets on March 7, the Gryphon Fieldhouse will not be closing for the night like usual. Instead, hundreds of students, family and friends participating in Relay for Life will be gathered and ready to cheer each other on as they walk from 7 p.m. until 7 a.m. the next day.

The campaign has a clear motivation. In an interview with The Ontarion, Charli Ferguson, cochair of Relay for Life, said, “Cancer never sleeps, so why should we?”

Through fostering a community of those affected by cancer to share experiences, Relay for Life brings everyone together, from cancer survivors to their friends and family. Because 50 per cent of Canadians will be diagnosed with

cancer at some point in their life, the need for research and community support services remains high.

Smaller activities will take place to keep participants motivated during the event and promote further cancer education. These activities encourage an optimistic and supportive atmosphere with a candlelit remembrance ceremony, live music, Zumba and trivia.

Bianca Di Carlo, co-chair of Relay for Life, spoke on the power of community participation. “In the face of cancer, it’s really easy to feel powerless, and to be a part of a community is really empowering,” she said.

In 1999, 14 years after American colorectal surgeon Dr. Geordy Klatt walked 24 hours on a track to raise money for cancer re-

search, the Canadian Cancer Society (CCS) hosted their first ever Relay for Life event in Ottawa. Inspired by a similar goal to raise money and awareness, the inaugural benefit was an immediate success and brought in $85,000 overnight.

It was a catalyst for the future of cancer fundraising, which rapidly expanded across the country. Many annual campaigns contribute to CCS fundraising, such as the CIBC Run for the Cure and the Daffodil Month campaign. In 2026, 274 institutions have registered to participate in the Relay for Life campaign and over $600 million has been raised so far.

Such a large campaign can make it difficult to grasp how much money is being collected. However, the charity ensures that

all donations are guaranteed to be used effectively and in accordance with specific designations. While $50 may provide a day’s worth of meals, a few thousand will ensure patients get access to new cancer treatments and enrollment in medical trials.

Under the 2026 World Cancer Day theme, “United by Unique,” the CCS has implemented a new mission to put people at the centre of care, which will heighten the focus on preventative care and changes to public policy to improve recovery outcomes.

In recent years, the University of Guelph chapter has been among Relay for Life’s top contributors, and 2026 marks the chapter’s 22nd consecutive year participating. With such a persistent legacy, organizers expect to

These experiences can have long-lasting effects, said Akierah Binns, Cultural Diversity coordinator: “Imposter syndrome carries on.”

While everyone’s lived experience is different, for some Black and racialized students, facing such barriers during academic pursuits can bleed into other areas of their lives.

As Vice Provost of Student Affairs Melinda Scott reflected, it’s critical that Black and racialized students have spaces where they feel belonging.

match last year’s success of raising over $180,000. Despite a drop in participation due to COVID-19 restrictions, the event’s turnout has grown exponentially in the last few years, with an expected turnout of over 800 people in 2026.

While this single fundraiser is a major event for the CCS, Guelph’s Relay for Life chapter hosts other smaller campaigns throughout the year, such as blind book sales, Krispy Kreme fundraisers and pop-up thrift shops to continuously raise money and keep the Relay team connected.

Further events and volunteering opportunities are likely to be advertised on the Relay for Life website and social media, as well as through the CSA.

The creativity of our planet A talk with Empowered Youth for Climate Resilience

AVA VENDER

Climate change is widely known, but the science behind it is not always understood—espeically by youth. A new University of Guelph club, Empowered Youth for Climate Resilience, is advocating for increased climate change education in schools and raising awareness of the issues at hand.

Founded in 2023 by Mikayla Astroff, Maria Pot and Reneé Stanton, Empowered Youth for Climate Resilience focuses on providing educational tools about the complexities of climate change and its effects on both the natural and social world.

Although not officially CSA accredited, with help from the Raithby House and student volunteer support systems, the club has expanded across the Guelph community, going from a three-person effort to having a full team of committed and enthusiastic peers.

“The whole mission is to have climate change education more accessible to youth,” Astroff said. “It kind of comes from my own experiences, with feeling like we weren't really taught enough about climate change concepts throughout high school.”

hands-on activities, such as colouring sheets featuring Indigenous activists, activity pages where one makes their own CO2, and an activity on acid rain, which includes pH drips. Other goodies in the kits include seeds, metal straws and Buzzfeed quizzes.

“That's what we want to leave youth with,” Astroff said, on the purpose of the kits. “Giving them a sense of agency and moral self-determination to be able to use climate change education in further advocacy down the line if they choose. Just to better understand what it is [and] to help cope with the eco-anxiety aspects of it too.”

During club meetings, each member gets to design and paint a cover for the kits in order to finalize them before they are sent out to the schools. Members feel this activity is an example of the community that the club fosters.

• Minutes from campus

• Best rates in town

• 24 hours access

• Drive up units

• Short and long term

• Heated units available

• Secure and convenient

• Mobile Storage (pick up available)

• Indoor climate controlled available

The club’s leaders feel that complex climate change concepts are not sufficiently taught to youth. “We’re not really educated on what's happening and the scary parts of climate change, but also why it's happening,” Astroff said. “We want to make people feel empowered through actually understanding the science behind climate change.”

One way the club works to improve climate change education is through their climate change kits, which are modeled to fit the skill level of students from grades six to eight. These kits include informational pamphlets on greenhouse gasses, waste-away systems, eco-anxiety and the disproportionate impacts of environmental harms on Canadian communities, with a focus on Indigenous communities.

The kits also include a number of

“As an environmental biology student, it's kind of difficult to find clubs on campus full of like-minded individuals,” Pot said. “We don’t just plan events and drink coffee, we are getting together, we are painting boxes and we’re putting together kits. We have an end goal, and we’re seeing real action and real results take place every time we meet.”

The expansion of Empowered Youth for Climate Resilience helped students like Pot connect with people in similar programs, as well as those with the same drive, passion and interests. Combining the social, creative, scientific and activism aspects of a club is new to the Guelph campus, and has had a positive impact for students enrolled in a science program.

The climate change kits are currently distributed to schools through events like “Lets Talk Science,” but the club hopes to initiate classroom visits and workshops in the future.

Those interested in the club can contact them on GryphLife or @youth4climate.uog on Instagram.

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Winter storms create mobility barriers for Guelph residents

City operations staff working overtime to clear sidewalks but accessibility concerns remain

EMMERSON JULL

City of Guelph operations crews have been working around the clock to stay on top of snow removal this winter after heavy snowfall caused school and campus closures in the region on Jan. 15. Despite their best efforts, many residents have raised concerns about the inaccessibility of city sidewalks, including on Facebook and the Guelph Today website.

The Ontarion spoke with Terry Dooling, manager of public works, to discuss the city’s snow removal operations.

“Spontaneity, the ability to be a typical student, completely disappears the minute that the snow comes,” Hall said. Mobility barriers exist even when sidewalks have been cleared, especially if snow plows inadvertently block the curb cuts or if the sidewalks turn icy. Navigating the city becomes dangerous for seniors, people using mobility aids and even parents with strollers.

https://opirgguelph.org/2026/01/agm-elections-2026/

The municipality is responsible for year-round maintenance of roadways and sidewalks, which includes about 750 km of sidewalks to be cleared and salted after the snow falls. Sidewalks are prioritized for snow removal based on use and informed by data such as pedestrian counts, or their location in a high-traffic area–like the university. Contrary to popular belief, Guelph homeowners are not required to clear the sidewalks in front of their property, but the help is always appreciated.

According to the City’s website, high priority sidewalks are serviced after four cm of snow accumulation and residential sidewalks are serviced after eight cm. The municipality also asks that residents do not submit complaints about snow removal until 48 hours after the snow stops.

Guelph’s maintenance crews have been working overtime to service roadways and sidewalks. “In the last week, for example,” Dooling said, “they’re working 13 hours a day and they haven’t quit.”

Dooling understands that snow makes it difficult for residents to navigate daily life. “There are times when the public does become frustrated and I get that,” he said. “I just want people to know we really are trying our best.”

Catherine Hall, a PhD student in U of G’s applied social psychology program, studies the experience of people using mobility aids. Hall is a wheelchair user “acutely aware” of the difficulty winter weather brings to her daily life. For most of the year, she uses conventional transit to commute to campus and visit friends. While accessible transit options exist, the service requires people to book in advance—from two hours to seven days ahead.

Hall feels disappointed that snow removal remains an issue in the municipality, despite the existence of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). “You can see on campus, for the most part, snow can be cleared. You can see that it is a possibility, but it is not being followed through with the rest of the city,” she said.

Deborah Stienstra, director of the Live Work Well Research Centre at U of G, thinks the city is well positioned to implement a winter accessibility strategy. Although the AODA requires municipalities to implement broad guidelines around access, there aren’t specifications for winter months.

“To me, what’s missing in our accessibility strategy is any sense [during those] four to five months of the year,” said Stienstra. “All the wonderful accessibility measures that we have in place are irrelevant unless snow is cleared.”

Notably, Mayor Cam Guthrie shared on Facebook on Jan. 21 that he expects the city’s annual audit workplan, which is presented to council each February, will include recommendations to review all winter maintenance.

“I can imagine that it will investigate not just the service on our roads and sidewalks, but also bike or trail management and even the importance of accessibility access throughout the city including transit stops and more,” read Guthrie’s Facebook post.

The mayor concluded by thanking Guelph’s maintenance staff and acknowledging that snow removal issues are not their fault. “It’s on [the] council and myself with the policies, standards and budget allocation that we determine,” Guthrie said.

Landscape Architecture Guest Lecture Series features Nick Onody

With insights from a professional in the field, students learned about fixed and flexible elements in landscape architecture

ARTICLE & PHOTO BY FAUSTINE LIU

The University of Guelph’s Landscape Architecture (LA) Guest Lecture Series hosted Nick Onody, principal at O2 Planning and Design, on Jan. 13 for a talk titled “Interdisciplinary Design Practice.”

Held in “the pit”—inside the Landscape Architecture building— the event was a part of the winter 2026 speaker series organized by the School of Environmental Design and Rural Development. Organized by professor Nadia Amoroso and sponsored by Maglin Site Furniture, the event was open to both students and faculty, with a pizza lunch provided for all attendees.

With nearly 20 years of professional experience, Onody's work spans a wide range of project types and scales. His practice centres on contemporary design approaches that respond to environmental and social challenges in cities, using systems-based thinking to address complex urban conditions. Onody has worked on landscape architecture, urban design and climate adaptation projects across nine countries, often leading large multidisciplinary teams on award-winning design work.

Onody’s presentation examined the balance between what was described as “fixed” and “flexible” elements in landscape architecture.

He defined fixed elements as the parts of a site that are long lasting and carefully planned, such as land shape, water systems, major pathways and basic infrastructure. Flexible elements, on the other hand, are designed to evolve. These areas include planting and how people utilize and interact with a space naturally over time.

Onody emphasized that successful projects do not need to choose between fixed and flexible design, but rather it should be a combination. Landscapes should not be so rigid that they become unusable but they should also not be so undefined that their structure is lost. Instead, they should contain a clear framework that allows for change in response to environmental conditions and public needs.

Throughout the presentation, Onody provided several examples of how this balance works in real life projects, and how good design is about creating a strong foundation while allowing space for change.

Dale Hodges Park

One of the main projects Onody discussed during the lecture was Dale Hodges Park, located along the Bow River Valley in Calgary, an area known for its important riverbank and floodplain ecosystems.

The site was once a largely abandoned gravel quarry, but was later purchased by the City of Calgary, creating an opportunity to restore natural habitats and bring people back to the river.

The project first began with very different intentions to transform the site into a more traditional recreational park with activity-focused programming. However, when his team studied the site more closely, they noticed that nature was already beginning to return. Further research showcased emerging ecosystems where two major drainage areas were sending large amounts of stormwater into the site. This discovery steered the project into a different direction as the team decided to work with these natural processes, redesigning the area as a system that captures, slows, filters and releases stormwater back into the Bow River.

The park’s layout was shaped to resemble natural river patterns, using curved landforms and shallow water channels. These shapes help store water during heavy rainfall, creating different habitats for plants and animals. A key feature of the park is a circular basin called the “Nautilus pond,” which removes sediment from the water before it flows through the series

of wetlands that help filter pollutants and create different habitats. Boardwalks and walking paths are implemented through these forms for enhanced visitor experience, allowing people to see how the landscape changes throughout the year.

Downtown Flood Barrier

Onody also spoke about designing for flood protection and long-term change, using the Downtown Flood Barrier project as an example. Following Calgary’s 2013 flood, which caused major damage across downtown areas, one of the few neighbourhoods that remained relatively protected was East Village, where earlier riverfront design had already included flood protection.

After the flood, the city invested in stronger protection systems along the river. These systems must meet strict safety standards, but also function as public spaces. This led to the Downtown Flood Barrier project in West Eau Claire Park. Because the river corridor is narrow in many areas, traditional flood barriers were not always possible. Instead of building plain walls or dirt berms, the team explored designs that combine protection with everyday use, which included using

stepped park areas, sloped landscapes and terraces that could hold back floodwater, while still remaining functional as walkable and social spaces as the goal was to protect the city without cutting people off from the river.

Onody also spoke about how materials change over time. Wood fades, metal rusts and stone wears down. Instead of seeing this as a problem, he encourages designers to plan for it. Designers should be able to work within these boundaries while finding ways to improve how people experience outdoor spaces.

Upcoming Guest Lecture Series

The winter 2026 LA Guest Lecture Series will continue with several upcoming events. On Feb. 4, the series will host Raymon Yim, founder of Urbantypology and a 2001 graduate of the U of G’s BLA program.

A recorded interview with Jack Dangermond, founder of ESRI, conducted by Amoroso, will also be released in February. The series will then follow on March 12, with a lecture by Chip Sullivan, professor emeritus of landscape architecture and planning at UC Berkeley, located in the LA pit.

Three ongoing developments in Guelph to propel the city’s future

The Baker District redevelopment, infrastructure renewal in St. George’s Square and a new South End Community Centre are all in the works

ABBY COUNAHAN

The ongoing developments in Guelph include the Baker District redevelopment, the Downtown Infrastructure Renewal Program (DTIRP) that will revitalize St. George’s Square, and the construction of the South End Community Centre (SECC).

The Baker District redevelopment project will remodel a former municipal parking lot located in the core of downtown into a compact district to create a revived area of activity, commerce and civic space. The redevelopment will include a new library, parking garage and public squares, and will also support the construction of private development towers including commercial and residential spaces.

In an interview with The Ontarion, General Manager of Facilities and Energy Management, Ian Scott, spoke about the project.

Scott said that the completed Baker District will include a new 88,000 square foot library, approximately 150 public parking spaces and bicycle parking, along with over 350 residential units. There will also be underground parking to support higher volumes of people in the downtown area, and the lot will be connected through the Baker District to the north end of Wyndham street.

“As a landmark city-building initiative, the Baker District redevelopment further revitalizes our downtown and encourages more people [to live] downtown,” Scott said. “More jobs due to an increase in demand for retail and commercial services, an increase in retail spending for current and new businesses, and more people visiting downtown

which contributes to a vibrant and healthy downtown.”

Mayor Cam Guthrie also spoke on the developments.

“The Baker District is another long awaited project that will be completed by the end of this year,” Guthrie said. “It’s turning an underperforming asset into a performing one.”

The new library is the first stand-alone library in Canada to achieve the Canada Green Building Council’s Zero Carbon Building - Design Standard certification. As part of the 2024-2027 Future Guelph Strategic Plan, Scott says this project puts the city closer to their goal of being a leader in climate action. The city’s two main goals are to operate facilities on 100 per cent renewable energy sources by 2050, and to become a net-zero carbon community by 2050.

“The Baker District redevelopment, including the library, helps achieve these goals by aligning to the Net Zero Carbon Design criteria, minimizing long term greenhouse gas emissions and energy usage within the building,” Scott said.

The DTIRP is a project that will upgrade roads, sewers and watermains, and also improve sidewalks, cycling facilities and streetscape. While the core purpose of this project is to replace outdated underground infrastructure, the final product will see modernized changes to St. Georges Square. This includes a larger promenade with overhead lighting, the use of natural materials, trees and plantings and larger open spaces.

Downtown Revitalization Advisor, Stac-

Laughlin shared that feedback from various public engagement initiatives showed that trees, nature and the environment are important Guelph residents, downtown business owners and employees, visitors and interested parties, such as the Downtown Guelph Business Association. The city will also be adding more seating and rest areas, as well as shaded areas and places for private patios.

“We’re taking the opportunity as we restore the area to create a downtown that is accessible, attractive and welcoming for people of all ages and abilities.” Laughlin said. “By working to create a more welcoming and engaging downtown, we’re encouraging people to spend more time here, helping drive new customers and increased activity to the businesses that fuel our local downtown economy.”

Guthrie also spoke on the possible developments these projects could lead to in the future.

“I’m also looking forward to the development of new arts, culture and more that can be expressed in new downtown spaces, that [is] very important to me,” Guthrie said.

The SECC is a 160,000 square foot facility that will feature twin ice pads, aquatic centre with a lap and teaching pool, double gymnasium, walking track and multi-purpose rooms, all connected by a central lobby. The community centre is being built south of Bishop Macdonell Catholic High School on Poppy Drive and will be connected with the existing South End Community Park and Larry Pearson baseball diamonds.

General Manager of Culture and Recreation, Danna Evans, spoke about the project.

Evans said in 2009, the city identified a need for additional indoor amenities to meet growing needs, population and communities in the south end of Guelph. After conducting studies with the Parks and Recreation Master Plan to identify what spaces and activities would be most suitable, construction began in the fall of 2023, and the facility will open in the fall of 2026.

The SECC also aligns with the Net Zero Carbon Design criteria, which according to Scott, “Reduces the buildings energy usage by over 60 per cent and reduces GHG emissions,” and that “the building will also have a solar PV that will produce over 400KW of energy at peak conditions.”

Food security in Canada: Planting seeds for a better future

U of G professors give insights to possible food security solutions

ARTICLE & PHOTOS BY ASHLEY MAROZSAN

Grocery prices and inflation have been a hot topic of conversation ever since the ripple effect of the Covid-19 restrictions that caused grocery prices to rise unprecedented amounts. Most Canadians expected food prices to recede to pre-pandemic levels once the restrictions were lifted, but they continued to climb.

Many are wondering why, after six years, does the price of food continue to become more unaffordable each year? Could it be due to tariff disputes, climate change, inflation, corporate greed or all of the above?

Evan Fraser, University of Guelph professor and director of the Arrell Food Institute, predicts there will be an additional four to six per cent price increase for groceries as a result of U.S. trade tensions and climate change, among other factors.

So, what will the solution be? According to Fraser, Canada needs a sovereign food system to prevent other nations from having too much influence over the country’s food supply and affordability.

The University of Guelph is renowned for its focus on research, agriculture and biological sciences, and its collective body of students and faculty are well equipped to address this issue.

For example, environmental science professor Youbin Zheng has done extensive research into agricultural and horticultural technologies, and has said that solutions to food security in Canada could be as simple as controlled indoor agriculture.

The main obstacles currently faced by Canadian farmers are climate change, long winters and urbanization. Canadian winters are long, cold and dark, which prevent traditional farmers from being able to produce fresh produce year round on a large scale.

Food insecurity is especially prevalent in remote, northern regions of the country such as Nunavut, where more than half of the population lives in a state of food insecurity. A different issue arises for many regions of southern and central Ontario. In these areas, increased urbanization to support growing populations, necessarily in proximity to thriving industries, is an immediate threat to agriculture.

Another threat to agriculture is climate change creating unpredictable weather patterns and negatively impacting the harvest of in-season crops. An early spring in 2025 caused many outdoor strawberry plants to bloom early, only to be hit with a cold front that devastated the season’s

strawberry output. This devastation caused only one fifth of the country’s demand to be satisfied during the season, and as a result of this—and similar scenarios— Canada became more reliant on imports and more vulnerable to trade disputes.

Zheng explained that controlled environments create highly efficient growing systems that have both higher volume and quality outputs. These indoor environments also use less physical resources and space compared to traditional agricultural practices. In densely populated areas, vertical farming and multi-story indoor growing facilities can fit 10 acres of plant growth into one acre of space.

These technologies are already being implemented into Canadian agriculture, like at the GoodLeaf facility that grows microgreens right here in Guelph. In remote areas with little viable land, controlled growing environments can be crafted from materials as simple as shipping containers.

Not only are these greenhouses space efficient, but the systems they support require less water and fertilizer than conventional methods. Highly controlled environments lower the need for fertilizer as the soil does not leech

nutrients into the surrounding environment. Additionally, LED lights can be used to steer plant growth and change the morphology and nutrient values of the plants.

Zheng believes that food security is not simply determined by food access, but also access to highly nutritious foods. The key to this is fresh produce, says Zheng. Eating greenhouse-grown, locally-produced foods leads to better nutritional value for the consumer because produce is harvested at peak freshness and quickly delivered to retailers. Meanwhile, imported foods are

often harvested early so produce will survive transportation. In a time when many Canadians are opting for affordable staple foods, nutrient density becomes even more important.

As it stands, there are currently not enough greenhouses in Canada to support a large-scale shift in consumer’s choices. The input costs of controlled growing environments are currently higher than the cost of importing goods. With more research, better infrastructure and increased government funding, indoor farming may become a favourable longterm solution.

OPIRG’s Rebel Knowledge Symposium returns in February

From Feb. 6 to 8, OPIRG Guelph will be hosting a series of talks and workshops on fighting

facism

Every year, Guelph’s branch of the Ontario Public Research Interest Group (OPIRG) hosts a three-day knowledge symposium featuring a variety of speakers, activities and events. The 2026 symposium, titled “Here We Go Again: Fighting Fascism Then & Now,” will take place from Feb. 6 to 8 in the University Centre.

The Ontarion sat down with Illyria Volcansek, the outreach coordinator for this year's symposium, to learn more about the organization and their 2026 symposium.

OPIRG Guelph works on environmental and social justice issues of public interest, while also acting as an activists hub providing resources and a safe space for the community. The chapter hopes to inspire and connect students while building connections with like-minded individuals and organizations.

On the symposium, Volcansek said, “This year our topic is fascism. The reason this is timely is because we’re in a period where our democratic rights are unfortunately coming under attack from a variety of different areas, and it feels very overwhelming.”

The keynote speaker for the event is Mark Bray, an American historian and author of Antifa: The Anti-Fascist Handbook.

“We really want to take a look at fascism and how students can fight back against it,” Volcansek said.

Attendees can expect to see panels, hands-on workshops and a drop-in art space. Some of the panels and workshops include topics like pod mapping, community organizing, eco fascism and punk activism.

Topics including environment, Canadian politics, migration, global human

rights and censorship will also be covered at the event, with intentional intersectionality.

“This is really an event for everyone, we really want people to come in with a mindset of community, caring for each other, and being respectful of all guests,” Volcanek said. She emphasized the importance of creating a space where everyone can challenge themselves to learn and grow. “This is a space where you are going to be challenged and potentially feel uncomfortable while learning.”

A special section of the symposium will dedicate a room to celebrate the 50th anniversary of OPIRG’s Guelph chapter. The space will feature archival zines and memorabilia from past action groups.

OPIRG aimed to make the event fully accessible and is offering free admission. Pre-registering is encouraged so that they are able to provide enough food, childcare needs and any other necessary accommodations.

'MAGA Minaj' makes headlines after Nicki Minaj praises Donald Trump

The pop star’s recent interview with Erika Kirk contradicts her previous behaviour, shocking fans

ELISE FREDERIKSEN

In December of last year, Nicki Minaj met with Erika Kirk in Arizona for the Turning Point USA’s AmericaFest, a conference run annually by the organization. Turning Point USA is a non-profit organization advocating for conservative politics, co-founded in 2012 by Charlie Kirk. Charlie Kirk, known for his political debates with young individuals and his support of Donald Trump, has had a rise in public image after he was assassinated while debating gun violence with an audience member at a Sept. 2025 Turning Point USA event.

After the pair walked onto the pyrotechnic-filled stage to the pop singer’s hit “Super Bass,” Kirk said she was “blessed and grateful” to have Minaj as a guest, who replied that she was “honoured to be there.” Minaj read aloud some social media posts she had written about Gavin Newsom, calling the California governor “Mr. NewScum”—Donald Trump’s nickname for the governor.

Although not having a large political presence for most of her career, Minaj has previously supported the LGBTQ+ community. The pop star appeared as a judge on the twelfth season

of RuPaul’s Drag Race, which aired in 2020. With her unapologetic self-expression and overthe-top fashion, she has had a large LGBTQ+ fanbase. One of the drag queens featured in the Drag Race episode had even used Minaj as inspiration when choosing her drag queen name, demonstrating the previous positive role the artist has had in the LGBTQ+ community.

When Minaj was announced as a performer at a Saudi Arabian festival in 2019, some fans criticized the decision as contradictory to her previous support for LGBTQ+ communities, citing the country’s laws criminalizing same-sex relationships.

The US-based Human Rights Foundation sent Minaj an open request to withdraw from the festival and to “refuse the regime’s money,” in light of the country's human rights record. Minaj did so, putting out a statement online regarding the issue:

“While I want nothing more than to bring my show to fans in Saudi Arabia, after better educating myself on the issues, I believe it is important for me to make clear my support for the rights of women, the LGBTQ community and freedom of expression.”

At the Turning Point USA

event, Minaj praised Donald Trump and J.D. Vance, calling them “smart, strong and powerful” role models for young men. She said she had “the utmost respect and admiration” for Trump, adding that he had given Americans “hope that there’s a chance to beat the bad guys,” without specifying who she meant.

Minaj’s opinion of Trump from the Turning Point USA event also contradicts her previous advocacy. In a 2018 post on a now-deactivated Instagram account, Minaj spoke out about Trump’s detention centers for immigrants.

“I came to this country as an

illegal immigrant @ 5 years old,” she said. “I can’t imagine the horror of being in a strange place & having my parents stripped away from me at the age of 5. This is so scary to me. Please stop this. Can you try to imagine the terror & panic these kids feel right now?”

Earlier in her career, Minaj referenced Trump’s deportations in her 2016 song “Black Barbie,” singing, “Island girl, Donald Trump want me go home.”

Kirk ended the interview by asking Minaj, “What is something that you want to leave as a legacy in this world?” Minaj responded, “That it’s okay to change your mind.”

She referred to those giving backlash against her as being “angry with themselves” and “determined to just stay mad.” The artist encouraged those giving negative reactions to do just so, and spoke to the audience, encouraging them to think for themselves and by themselves. Since the Turning Point USA event, there has been much debate on social media regarding this recent political involvement—Minaj’s motives, in particular, are being scrutinized. Despite the backlash from fans, Minaj continues to support the Trump administration in social media posts.

Guelph rapper Optikz sets his sights on recovery

His latest release, The Optikz EP, overcomes hardship to “see how beautiful life can be”

VIDA ADAIR MATUS

Although born in Queensland, Australia, Darren Piper became a Guelph local at seven years old, when what was meant to be a brief stint living in Canada turned into his family's permanent home.

Piper had a tumultuous childhood. Later in life, he was diagnosed with Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

(CPTSD); but for most of his life his mental health went unaddressed.

Such struggle in his early life led Piper in search of an identity, where he explored fields like theater and music. While he was working a background acting job on a filmset, he witnessed a group of men participating in a freestyle rap cypher. From that

day, Piper officially “caught the rap bug.”

Piper had always been inspired by rappers such as Jay-Z, Nas and Eminem, but the pop and punk music of the 90s persist as major sources of his artistic inspiration. The growing Canadian rap scene of the 90s saw rappers such as Rascals, Choclair and Kardinal Offishall rise into the mainstream, further encouraging Piper to pursue music. This is when Optikz was born.

While this was his rap identity, Optikz quickly grew into a second self, a place where Piper garnered the community and appreciation he was searching for.

In 2002, he formed the rap group RCR, which went on to open for Rascals at Royal City Electric Brewery. In 2005, Optikz released his first solo album, Area Fifty One Nine Covert Ops.

Although Optikz saw suc-

Three easy projects for hosting a craft night

Here’s your inspo to gather your friends and get creative

ANDREEA BURLACU

Do you ever miss arts and crafts hour from elementary school? Adults should bring that back. It’s as simple as making art with your friends and showing off your masterpieces. On social media, both crafting and hosting are shown as

ways to be more present, develop hobbies and build community. The best of both worlds are craft nights. They’re fun to host, great for the cozy winter months and a low-pressure way to make art. Here are three trendy crafts that

are super cute while requiring minimal supplies. Doodle, decorate and decoupage away!

Collage nights

For a collage night, you’ll

cess, unaddressed trauma paired with the party scene of being an artist threw Piper into a dark place where he faced struggles with addiction and mental health. He opens up about these hardships in his music. His newest EP, The Optikz EP, stands as a testament to his healing journey. The EP was written after a musical hiatus Piper took during recovery. Everything Piper has experienced and learned in his healing journey is clear in this EP, with him considering songs on The Optikz EP as the most authentic music he has made.

Honest conversations about mental health are more common now than they were in Piper’s generation. It was by embracing an open dialogue surrounding mental health that Piper was able to find support and support others. When releasing music and publicly discussing what

need scissors, glue, and a thick material to use as a base (Dollarama watercolour papers are great for this). Anything can be collaged, from old magazine cutouts to junk-journal style materials… even this newspaper once you’re done reading it! It’s fun to base your collage around a theme, such as a vision board to manifest your goals.

Punch cards

These little cards are blowing up on TikTok as a way to stick to your resolutions. Grab pieces of cardstock and doodle little images to “punch” every time you complete a habit. Some examples include reading a book, hitting the gym or making coffee at home.

he’d been through, he had people reach out and share their experiences for the first time.

Today, Optikz is using the skills he learned at therapy to holistically understand his identity beyond his music. He hopes to turn this seven song EP into a 14 song LP in the near future. Having suffered from a long term back injury, performing has been on hold. But Piper is currently working and rehearsing to bring an experience to his performances. Places like Royal City Electric, Jimmy Jazz and The Brass Taps have all been sites of some of his performances, and these venues set the stage for local artists to thrive. For this generation of musicians, he encourages artists to take advantage of the resources available on the internet, as well as taking the time to refine and understand their craft and themselves.

After the card is complete, you have earned a reward of your choice! Punch cards are a great way to visualize your progress and motivate yourself.

Winter snowflakes

The most elementary school craft of them all are paper snowflakes! These are nostalgic and a low-cost way to decorate your home. To make things even more exciting, you can find photo tutorials online to cut out many different shapes. Then, just string some yarn through your snowflakes to create a beautiful garland.

The weather outside may be frightful, but these crafts are so delightful. Happy crafting!

WUnderstanding and celebrating Chinese New Year

On Feb. 17, Southeast and East

Asian

communities will prepare to welcome the Year of the Horse

MARTIN LIMA PEREZ

hat does it mean to welcome the Year of the Horse? Chinese New Year celebrates the end of winter and the beginning of spring. For many, the holiday represents a special time for family and loved ones to gather and celebrate the good fortune that awaits them in the year ahead.

Tracing its roots to the last half of the Han dynasty (206 BCE–220 CE), the holiday is intrinsically tied to the Lunar Calendar. By combining monthly lunar cycles with a solar year, New Year’s Day always falls on a new moon between Jan. 21 and Feb. 20. The holiday, often dubbed the spring festival, runs for 15 days. It typically includes seven days off work, but the festival itself officially ends on the next full moon. This explains why Chinese New Year's doesn’t align annually with the Georgian Calendar.

So where does the horse come in?

The Lunar Calendar, rather than assigning a number to the year, adopts an animal from the Chinese Zodiac. There are 12 animals sequenced in chronological order and 2026 represents the Year of the Horse. So, each animal cycles through every 12 years. Freedom, speed and perseverance are all themes fostered to the horse. It should be highlighted that China’s cultural influence has shaped many neighbouring countries. As a result, many of these communities celebrate Lunar New Year's, a broader, more inclusive term that unites various cultures and traditions.

Many preparations take place to welcome in the new year. This phase of the holiday is called Little New Year, and depending on the region typically starts a day or a week before. In an interview with The Ontarion, members from the University of Guelph Chinese Students and Scholars Association (UGCSSA) shared their personal experiences characterizing the essence of the Chinese New Year.

One member, Yuhan Deng, described Little New Year as a transition into the holidays: “Traditionally, it’s a time for cleaning the house, making offerings and getting ready for the main celebrations; it’s basically when people really start getting into the New Year vibe.”

Red couplets lettered with gold or black are placed on the windows and doors of homes to attract good fortune. “There’s also a tradition of doing a big cleaning before the new year, which symbolizes getting rid of the old and welcoming the new,” Deng said.

Families during this time are out and about shopping for new clothes and buying ingredients to feature in their reunion dinners. As for traditional dishes, expectations vary: “People usually eat whatever the family enjoys and fruits, but there are also some traditional dishes that people feel they should have,” Deng said.

For some individuals, the inclusion of fish is crucial. Eva Zheng, a U of G alumni and former member of the UGCSSA, emphasizes fish as a must inspired by the

Chinese idiom “to have abundance year after year.” On the contrary, Deng identifies regions of China where it is more customary to eat dumplings (jiaozi) and hot pots.

After the big New Year’s Eve dinner, families spend time together staying awake until midnight. This phase, called Shou Sui, means “guarding the year.”

Many Chinese New Year traditions can be linked to a single Chinese folklore. The story is that the Nian monster, on New Year’s Eve, would emerge to devour all living beings before retreating again to repeat its attack next year. Ultimately, people realized it was afraid of fire, loud noises and specifically the colour red. Red represents good luck, happiness and vitality. Red couplets, fireworks, firecrackers and red lanterns work to ward off the Nian monster. As Yuhan said, “It’s a childhood legend, not necessarily a historical fact, but it’s closely tied to many New Year customs.”

Another common tradition is the ex-

change of red envelopes, called hóngbāo in Mandarin and lai-see in Cantonese. Priscilla Cheng, the social media executive of UGCSSA, said that the red envelopes “signify good luck that is passed on by the older generation to a younger generation.”

The envelopes typically contain gold or black letters with a symbol at the center, and it is customary to exchange only crisp paper bills. The amount of money exchanged varies from household to household, but it is important to not give in amounts of four as it is considered unlucky, being a homophone to the word “death.” In contrast, the number eight is considered a lucky number due to its similar pronunciation to “wealthy.”

Chinese New Year cultivates a time of unity and rebirth. In China, when someone wishes another person a happy New Year, they typically include hopeful adjectives. So, whether you celebrate Chinese New Year or not, happy Lunar New Year and good luck with your studies.

Christianity, colonialism and the blues in Sinners

Ryan Coogler’s Sinners explores North America’s history of violent colonialism in a unique way

Miles Caton puts on a stellar performance as Sammie Moore in Sinners (2025)—his first ever feature film, and the first film in history to receive 16 Academy Awards nominations.

Set in Mississippi 1932, Sinners follows the story of a young sharecropper whose passion is the blues. When his cousins Smoke and Stack return to their hometown in Mississippi, they recruit Sammie to sing at their juke joint. While singing, however, he catches the attention of the Irish vampire Remmick who wants to steal Sammie’s voice for himself.

Remmick perpetuates the violent cycle of colonialism, despite being an Irish immigrant with an understanding of oppression. The vampires act as an allegory for colonialism and assimilation. Remmick’s goal of stealing Sammie’s

voice portrays the theft of culture that accompanies colonialism.

The fact that the vampires cannot survive in the sun represents how the horrors of colonialism are often kept in the dark, suppressed and hidden from public scrutiny.

Employing the horror genre is a clever choice on Coogler’s part for a film which serves as a commentary on colonialism as colonialism utilizes inhumane, horrific acts to colonize and subdue those they deem inferior, as subhuman.

Sammie Moore is the son of a preacher, earning him the nickname “Preacher Boy,” and it is through his music that he is able to preach his history by means of the blues. The blues came to be around the outlawing of formal slavery and the turn of the century. Shaped by social and political oppression, the blues represent

SIENNA GEISSLER

an integral element of African American sensibility and identity, according to Larry Neal, a key figure in the Black Arts Movement.

In some parts of the South, the blues singer was not welcomed in the church and was labelled as a “man of sin.” We see this occur in the film with Sammie and his father’s criticism of the blues. In one scene, Sammie’s father tells him that only once he puts down the guitar can he enter the church, alluding to the fact that a black man travelling with a guitar could not even pass the front yard of a church without leaving his guitar outside.

Neal writes that the blues singer’s “ritual role in the community links him to the traditional priests and poets of Africa,” allowing him to participate in a sort of summoning of the various cultures of Africa that was stripped

from African Americans during the slave trade.

Despite being strongly discouraged by his father, Sammie plays the blues at the juke joint singing an original, deeply personal song that rekindles the culture that was stolen from him in the most visually intriguing scene of the film.

Towards the end of the film, when Sammie is expecting death at the hands of Remmick, he starts reciting the Lord’s prayer in hopes it will save him from the hands of “the devil.” However, instead of being repelled by Sammie’s words, Remmick joins him, reciting the prayer with him, stating how he too was oppressed by men who used those same words to excuse their unjust acts against his people.

In his final act of resistance, Sammie uses his guitar to deal a

blow to Remmick’s head, injuring him and the rest of the vampires. It is with the blues Sammie is able to combat Remmick and the vampires as a whole, just as it is with the blues African Americans were able to fight colonialism and shake its foundations.

After his traumatic experience with the vampires, Sammie clutches what’s left of his guitar to his chest. It is only music—the blues—that can offer Sammie comfort. After his traumatic experience with both colonialism and Christianity, it is only the blues he has left, which offers him a sense of individuality that was inhibited by slavery.

Ryan Coogler’s Sinners delves into the intersection of Christianity, colonialism and white supremacy, and showcases the freedom and magic that comes from the blues.

Heating up TV: The phenomenon of Heated Rivalry

Inclusivity to change the narrative in sport and film

I

t’s no secret that the hit show Heated Rivalry has single-handedly taken over the internet. Infamous hockey all-stars Shane Hollander (Hudson Williams) and Ilya Rozanov (Connor Storrie) are dominating everyone’s feeds with their slow-burn, forbidden romance.

The heartthrob hockey players have left their mark online and in Guelph. Gryphon men's right winger Jonah De Simone skated alongside Williams as his stunt double during on-ice filming at the Sleeman Centre. With the show’s global reach, Guelph is part of a foundation for social change in sport.

While it’s safe to say the show is enjoyed by many for its rising young stars and steamy plot, Heated Rivalry is far more than just passion and intimacy. It’s become a global phenomenon for positive queer and Asian representation in sport—particularly in a mostly white, hypermasculine sport such as hockey.

With insights from University of Guelph professor Ann Pegoraro, The Ontarion examines how the Canadian-made show is changing the narrative in TV and sport.

Queer identity in a hypermasculine sport

When Scott Hunter (Francois Arnaud) wins the fictional MLH Cup, he addresses the toxic hypermasculinity in the sport—

part of which made it impossible for him to be openly gay. He reflects on the difficulty of being the subject of locker room slurs and on-ice trash talk.

A 2022 study found that high-level hockey players aged 18 to 22 reported lower levels of empathy, but endorsed toxic attitudes towards sex, and believed danger and violence to be positive masculine traits. Such attitudes are predominant in hockey and have been historically rewarded, or at the least, not reprimanded. Since the narrative has never been changed, it’s no wonder queer athletes, both real and fictional, struggle to feel safe coming out.

Williams has discussed the emails and messages he’s received from closeted professional athletes following the show’s release. Pegoraro, U of G’s Lang Chair in sport management, notes that while it would be fantastic if every closeted athlete could come out, there is still much work to be done. But the show’s impact is obvious from the positive messages its stars have received from athletes.

“You can’t be what you can’t see,” Pegoraro said. “If you can’t see characters that are like you portrayed in TV series or inside a sport that you love, you question whether you belong.”

In contrast, inclusivity and acceptance are far more common in women’s sports. To Pegoraro, this could be attributed to the

long struggle for legitimacy behind women’s sports, creating a more accepting atmosphere and community.

One of Heated Rivalry’s best aspects is its portrayal of queer athletes as being anything but weak. Both Ilya and Shane are high-level, celebrated athletes, disproving the stereotype that being queer hinders athletic performance.

Asian representation

As of 2023, there were few er than 40 NHL players of Asian descent. Shane’s half-Japanese, half-Canadian identity adds an other dimension to his intersec tional representation, noted Pe goraro. Many of Shane’s brand deals emphasize his ethnicity, adding pressure to perform as a “role model” or positive representative.

Shane’s character also mirrors the in-betweenness of being mixed—a common experience not often discussed in the media. When Rose (who briefly dates Shane) asks him if it was hard being the only Asian kid growing up, Shane says that kids “forgot” to make fun of him because his last name allows him to pass as white.

For many Asian families, traditional mindsets and expec tations can make coming out es pecially difficult. Seeing Shane’s parents—particularly his Japa nese mother—accept his sexuali

drawn to the contrast of emotional unavailability and emotional openness portrayed in the show. Heated Rivalry presents an openly communicative and authentic relationship between men when a communicative partner can be difficult to find in real life.

Ilya’s journey towards self-acceptance carries global significance. He’s a Russian immigrant—where LGBTQIA+ people face persecution—raised by a callous father. While Heated Rivalry is banned in multiple countries, that hasn’t deterred viewership. If anything, viewing the show is an act of rebellion against ostracization. Pegoraro noted that while the show itself can’t change laws, it may shift cultural norms and perspectives over time.

ty and support him, Heated Rivalry has flipped a common narrative. Many queer movies and TV shows end in tragedy, but this series offers a bright future for Shane and Ilya.

Ownership of sexuality

According to Arnaud, many viewers, particularly women, are

Heated Rivalry is unapologetically sexual but its intimacy plays a specific role. Ilya and Shane’s sexual encounters push the plot forward by deepening their emotional connection, rather than serving as filler for shock factor. By intertwining queer identity and ethnic representation in one of the most hypermasculine sports, Heated Rivalry challenges old norms in a non-traditional way. As director and creator Jacob Tierney stated in a CBC interview: “It’s about two people figuring out they’re allowed to be in love.”

While social change may happen slowly, representation is crucial. When people can see themselves on screen, their own authenticity becomes more possible—especially in spaces it has long been denied. Heated Rivalry has begun remodelling the image of hockey culture and will hopefully continue to do so.

The Sisterhood of Creativity is a sweet way to meet new friends

Celebrate Galentines with their cute, crafty events

ARTICLE & PHOTOS BY MARISSA ZAHRA

The Sisterhood of Creativity aims to create a space where women can come together, tap into their creative side and create art. The club hosts fun DIY workshops that incorporate hands-on project making, skill-building and creating small trinkets to take home—or even eat.

On the inspiration behind the club, founder Maariya Khan shared that she wanted to give women an output for their creativity. “Girls can come and craft, express their creativity and artistic abilities through different workshops and crafts that we do in our club,” Khan said.

Some of the events they strive to host include clay sculpting, painting, phone case decorating and jewelry making. They plan to host guided workshops with people who specialize in each craft and encourage members to pitch other ideas that they’d be interested in.

If you’re looking for an after-school extracurricular that helps you unwind, craft-based activities are shown to have an overall positive impact on mental health, well-being and stress reduction. Academics can be stressful, especially in first year. Classes, labs, projects and midterms—plus the stress of making new friends and settling

into life away from home—quickly become overwhelming. At first, clubs can seem intimidating, but they are an amazing opportunity to make friends with people who share the same interests as you.

“When I was in first year, I really wanted to join clubs, but I felt like there were no clubs that had what I created: this creativity aspect,” Khan said. “I think if there are any first-year students who have interest in being creative or doing some sort of craft, they can definitely use our club to engage in university and meet a lot of other women and people who are in the same boat.”

Khan explained that being on a club events team really helped her find that creative outlet and in turn, motivated her to create a club of her own.

The Sisterhood of Creativity hosts sporadic socials where people can unwind and socialize with fellow creatives. You can pop in for the events that pique your interest and fuel your desire to create, while working around your busy schedule.

“We don’t have general meetings, we have specific events that people can come to and do some-

Who the (quack) is Geese?

Geese, with lead man Cameron Winter

is taking the alternative rock community by storm

MADELYN YOUNG

T

he rise of a seemingly niche band, Geese, has taken the alternative, indie music-loving scene by storm, as the name Cameron Winter has found its way into every music-related conversation.

In October 2025, Geese performed in Toronto, selling out The Opera House, an intimate venue whose capacity is just under 1000 people. Now in late January 2026, Geese is to per-

form on Saturday Night Live. So where did Geese come from, and where has the band’s cult following arisen from in the past three months?

Geese’s musical journey began in 2021 with the release of their first album, Projector, then 3D Country in 2023, Alive & In Person in 2024 and now Getting Killed, which has taken fans by storm. Upon the September 2025 release of Getting Killed, Geese

received a surprising amount of attention. A draw to the musical style of Geese is lead singer Winter's uniquely deep voice and expression within his lyricism at just 23-years-old.

Geese’s most popular song, “Au Pays Du Cocaine,” has become a fan favourite through its deep lyrics and unique compilation of sound. “Like a sailor in a big green coat, like a sailor in a big green boat you can be free,

thing creative,” Khan said. Its laid-back format and whimsical craft aspirations make it the perfect club to keep tabs on. Show up when an event meets your fancy, skip the ones that don’t speak to you.

The Sisterhood of Creativity club is hosting lots of exciting Valentine’s Day-themed events this February. Whether you and your friends want to celebrate Galentine’s or you’re still searching for a little something for your sweetheart, here’s their current line-up:

• For the Love of Chocolate on Feb. 5, 4:30-6:30 p.m. in UC Room 442: Receive a chocolate box to decorate and fill

with different types of chocolates.

• Dip Into Sisterhood Social on Feb. 12, 7:45-9:45 p.m. in UC Room 442: Chat with other members, meet new people and enjoy chocolate-covered strawberries.

• Love at First Bite on Feb. 10, 11-4 p.m. in UC Courtyard: If you’re still searching for a cutesy gift for someone special this Valentine's Day, they’re hosting a Valentine’s Daythemed bake sale. Check the club out on GryphLife or on their Instagram, @sisterhood.of.creativity_uofg, to learn more.

you can be free and still come home,” illustrates a scene of loneliness and longing, a theme throughout the rest of the album.

Winter’s lyrics have a unique appeal to a particular grunge imagery, similar to Nirvana’s Kurt Cobain. While abstract, the lyrical descriptions capture a low, desolate feel. In Winter's debut LP Heavy Metal, the lyrics “table by the door, wallet on the ground,” found in the song “Drinking Age,” creates that empty feeling Winter often portrays.

Unlike Cobain, however, Winter did not come from a low-income background. Winter and his bandmates met in an upper-class community in New York and began the band having all attended private school together. Yet the band’s aesthetic and marketing paint Geese as an-

other grungy, unclean rise from nothing band.

Winter played a sold-out solo performance at Carnegie Hall last December, a bold achievement for a young artist so early in his career. This drew comparison between Winter and superstar Bob Dylan, who also performed a sold-out show at Carnegie Hall early in his career.

It is difficult to decipher what exactly caused Geese to rise to fame so quickly, whether it be fans’ desperate need for a new alternative, experimental rock band, or the genuine talent of Winter’s song writing and Geese’s compelling collaboration. It is expected that fans of this genre will be hearing a whole lot more from Geese as they continue to take over playlists and music discussions of those who consider themselves to be niche.

Busy Reading: There’s lots to love about Canadian romance

The Canada Reads 2026 longlist includes a record number of romance novels

ARTICLE & PHOTOS BY EMMERSON JULL

The Canada Reads 2026 longlist was announced by CBC Books on Jan. 8, and three romance books made the cut: Heated Rivalry by Rachel Reid, It’s Different This Time by Joss Richard, and Never Been Better by Leanne Toshiko Simpson. For a contest that included its first romance novel in 2024—22 years after Canada Reads began—this year’s longlist seems to herald a new era for romance in the Canadian literary world.

Sales of romance books in Canada increased 82 per cent from 2023 to 2024, according to data from BookNet Canada. From 2020 to 2024, three of the top five bestselling Canadian romance titles were by Carley Fortune, the first romance author to make the Canada Reads longlist. She has sold more than three million copies of her books worldwide, introducing readers across the globe to uniquely Canadian stories.

It’s natural that Fortune is behind some of the bestselling titles at Hopeless Romantic Books, Toronto’s first romance-only bookstore.

Hopeless Romantic Books was founded by sisters Kearston Bergeron and Serena Goodchild, who shared a love of romance nov-

els and the dream to open a bookstore. They debuted their business at Toronto’s STACKT Market in Sept. 2024, becoming the region’s first specialty romance bookstore. Just one year later, Hopeless Romantic Books hosted a grand re-opening at the store’s new location on Queen Street West.

Since their re-opening, the store has hosted high-profile author signings, including their Nov. 26 meet and greet event with Rachel Reid, author of Heated Rivalry, and Crave stars Connor Storrie and Hudson Williams.

“We’ve received so much love and support from the community, both locals and people who come all the way here just to support us,” said manager Shelly Zevlever.

Hopeless Romantic Books offers readers a judgement-free community space to celebrate their favourite stories. That’s important, said Zevlever, because “fan culture and things that women enjoy are always seen as something less.”

Romance novels being undervalued in the literary world is a sentiment frequently echoed by readers and authors alike. Although Fortune’s Meet Me at the Lake was a Canada Reads finalist, she shared in a Toronto Life inter-

view that she felt her book was discussed as a gateway to introduce readers to more serious, literary novels.

Criticisms of the romance genre stem, in part, from their “happily ever after” endings. While reality is full of uncertainty, romance novels find amicable conclusions to all sorts of messy problems—making them ideal for stressed-out readers. “They want that escapism and they turn to romance novels,” Zevlever said. “Some romances tend to be so readable. That elusive readability, that enjoyment factor, is something that can be hard to find.”

If tragedy is the benchmark for complexity and depth in fiction, romance will always fall short. But if literary quality is judged on prose, compelling character development and transformative narratives, many romance authors deserve their flowers.

Case in point: Fortune’s upcoming novel, Our Perfect Storm, is vividly detailed and imaginative.

After 30-year-old Frankie is left by her fiance on the eve of their wedding, she spends her Tofino honeymoon with her childhood best friend, George. One week on the island pushes the two friends closer than ever before. Fortune’s

challenging the persistent dismissal of romance novels by the literary world. As she told Toronto Life, “There’s this assumption that romance books are shitty, poorly written, anti-feminist, silly. I think stories that are written and read by women have, by and large, a tougher time being taken seriously.”

While the literary world catches up with romance readers, the crew at Hopeless Romantic do what they can to heighten the visibility of Canadian authors, including indie-published and local writers.

fifth novel is so well researched— particularly on the UNESCO biosphere region the story is set within—that Canadian and global readers alike are sure to learn something about the island’s cultural history and climate stewardship efforts.

Authors like Fortune are

“We're actively conscious about the fact that we could use more Canadian romance novels and we do our best to promote them,” Zevlever said.

The bookstore’s upcoming events can be found on their website, hopelessromanticbooks.ca. Readers can follow the Canada Reads 2026 debates, broadcast live on CBC Radio, from Apr. 13 to 16.

February, join the book club and get

For fans of Tomorrow, Tomorrow, Tomorrow and Daisy Jones and the Six, this instant Canadian bestseller presents a story of music, love and crushing ambition.

It’s the fall of 2000 and somewhere in a Berkley campus bar, music aficionado Percy Marks is sharing her opinions about the song on the jukebox. She’s caught the ear of Joe Morrow, songwriter and fellow student, and the two kick off a passionate, years-long collaboration following them through their tumultuous 20s. Percy and Joe’s deep, obsessive love of music could bring them together—or indefinitely tear them apart.

A24 is set to begin production on the novel’s screen adaptation this month—starring Cailee Spaeny (Priscilla) and Drew Starkey (Queer)—so don’t miss your chance to read the book first and dissect it with our book club on Mar. 4, 2026. Follow us on Instagram @ontarionupdates for Busy Reading Book Club details and updates!

Sold-out Sleeman Centre heats up as Gryphons claim 3-1 win against Badgers in Frosty Mug rivalry

Guelph comes out on top

in 16th annual Frosty Mug game with three red-hot goals in the 2nd

ABBY COUNAHAN & EMMERSON JULL

In front of a record 4,900 fans packed into the sold-out Sleeman Centre, the Gryphons men’s hockey team claimed the 16th annual Frosty Mug in a 3-1 win against the Brock Badgers on Jan. 22.

Following an overtime 5-4 win against the Badgers in Thorold on Jan. 10, the Gryphons were prepared for a good game with the teams’ rematch at Frosty.

“It’s always a good game versus Brock,” said Nathan Allensen, Gryphons team captain. Allensen was responsible for the overtime goal on Jan. 10 that brought the Guelph-Brock streak to 3-1 for the Gryphons.

Things warmed up slowly for the Gryphons at the Sleeman Centre, with a swift score by the Badgers’ Nathan Fox just two minutes into the game. It was an exciting moment for the opposition—and it would be their last.

A few minutes later, the Gryphons would see an opportunity to strike back with a Badgers boarding penalty, giving them the upper hand of a two-minute power play. Despite playing hard in the offensive zone, the Gryphons would not be able to break through the Badgers’ tight defense.

The Badgers got the same power play opportunity later in the first after a holding penalty by Gryphons defense, Ryan O’Dell. Unfortunately for the Badgers, they couldn’t capitalize on the advantage—thanks to pressure from the Gryphons defense—and the first period ended with little action.

A fiery second period had the crowd roaring. After securing a

power play in the top half, a sneaky hit to the face by forward Anthony Tabak would warrant a Gryphons roughing penalty and level out the play. Around the 8-minute mark, Allensen scored the first Gryphons goal with an assist by forward Dylan Hudon, tying the game 1-1 heading into the latter half of the period.

The Badgers responded with pressure in the Gryphons defensive zone but were shut down by the tight saves made by rookie goaltender Oliver Ciarlo. Moments later, a penalty was called against the Badgers, and once again, the Gryphons were nicely positioned on a power play.

In true carpe diem fashion, second-year forward Nolan Dann scored a hot power play goal with an assist by fifth-year Jack Wismer, putting the Gryphons at a 2-1 lead with less than 10 minutes remaining in the period. That would be Dann’s 11th goal of the season, tying him for OUA’s leading scorer, according to the official game recap.

Another power play chance arose for the Badgers shortly after the Gryphons pulled in the lead. Referees called a hooking penalty by forward Nolan Forster, leaving fans booing in the stands. Still, the Gryphons held on strong and came out of the play untouched.

Shortly after his assist and with only three and a half minutes left in the period, Wismer was hungry for more. He carried the puck down the ice to score a backhanded bar-down goal, putting the Gryphons up 3-1 and urging fans out of

their seats to celebrate what would become the victory-claiming shot.

Reflecting on the team’s momentum in the second period, forward Griffin Wilson said, “We’ve been doing a new penalty kill. It’s been working really well, and a lot of us really take pride in that.”

Neither the Badgers nor Gryphons secured a goal in the final period, but play remained interesting—especially with a standout performance by Ciarlo, with 14 saves in the third. Ciarlo would be named one of the night’s three star players, alongside Allensen and Wismer, for saving a total of 28 out of the 29 shots that flew his way.

Gryphons took a five-minute major penalty for slashing and game misconduct when Cole Craft left the Badgers’ Tai York bloodied and face-down on the ice. With the Badgers earning a power play in the final three and a half minutes of the game, Gryphons buckled down on their defense, particularly with a strong performance by O’Dell to keep the puck out of their zone. Badgers forward Alexis Cournoyer soon took his second penalty of the night, shifting the game to 4-on-4 play. In the final two minutes of the game, the Badgers pulled their goalie and forced the Gryphons into an even stronger defensive position to shut down the Badgers and remain on top.

Lifting the Frosty Mug trophy into the air, the Gryphons celebrated the performance that held their winning streak against the Badgers and brought them into 4th place in the OUA West Division standings.

The Game Awards 2025: A victory for indie gaming

Games like Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 won big, proving that independent developers can stand up to major studios

HUDA SHOAIB

The 2025 Game Awards, held on Dec. 11, marked the twelfth annual show hosted by creator and producer Geoff Keighley. The show set a new record in viewership, with 171 million livestreams worldwide across several social media platforms, including TikTok, Instagram and Prime Video. The event revealed a number of announcements, including showcases of several intriguing new games such as Divinity, Tomb Raider: Catalyst, and Warlock: Dungeons and Dragons. Additional announcements included updates on highly anticipated games like Pragmata

and Resident Evil Requiem. However, the most exciting aspect of the event was the night’s spotlight on indie gaming.

The show gained significant praise for its focus on independent games, with multiple indie titles making up half of the Game of the Year nominees. Among these games, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 stood out the most, taking home an impressive 13 nominations and nine wins. This marks the highest number of nominations and wins for a game in the history of the event, surpassing the previous record holder, The Last of Us Part II

in 2020. An article from TheGamer notes that Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has won over 400 awards across game award shows worldwide. It also has the second-most Game of the Year wins in the history of video games, behind Elden Ring.

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 is the first independent game to win Game of the Year at the Game Awards and it likely will not be the last. This shift was further reinforced when another independent studio, Team Cherry, received its first Game Awards win, taking home Best Action/Adventure for their long-awaited title Hollow Knight: Silksong. The game was also nominated for Game of the Year, competing alongside major hits such as Death Stranding 2: On the Beach and Hades II. Additionally, with Hades II being nominated for several awards and winning Best Action Game, it is clear that 2025 was a historically significant year for indie gaming.

Many critics have praised the 2025 Game Awards for its focus on independent developers and their achievements throughout the year. Assigning the game a score of nine, one IGN reviewer of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 stated, “Wearing its inspirations on its sleeve, Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 paints itself into the pantheon of great RPGs with a brilliant combat system and a gripping, harrowing story.” Beyond the awards ceremony, IGN also voted Clair Obscur as their Game of the Year, while Hollow Knight: Silksong secured first place on Good Game Lobby’s “The 25 Best Indie Games of 2025” list.

Another independent title nominated for Games for Impact was Consume Me, a semi-autobiographical life simulation video game created by Jenny Jiao Hsia and AP Thomson and published by Hexacutable. Centered around the teenage life of Hsia herself,

the player navigates a hectic schedule of studying, chores, exercising and more, with an emphasis on a worsening eating disorder and its effects on daily life. After winning three awards at the Independent Games Festival, Consume Me received strong critical reception, including a Metacritic score of 80/100.

The 2025 Game Awards proved that indie developers can stand equally alongside major studios, delivering experiences that rival and at times surpass AAA titles in creativity, innovation and social impact. As record-breaking wins, widespread critical acclaim, and growing audience engagement continue to define the success of independent games, the Game Awards 2025 may be remembered as a turning point for the gaming industry, one that reshaped expectations of what indie developers can achieve on the global stage.

February Student Wellness events on campus

Mental and physical health workshops and events to survive and thrive this winter

KARYS CROOK

The University of Guelph encourages student mental and physical health with events facilitated by the Wellness Education Centre. Throughout the month of February, the university is focusing on themes ranging from healthy eating, safe substance use, Black History Month and Valentine’s Day. In acknowledgement of Eating Disorder Awareness Week, this month's event schedule starts off with Mirrorless Monday and Cookie Decorating and Button Making.

Feb. 2 is Mirrorless Monday, taking place from 12 to 2:30 p.m. in the University Centre Courtyard. The event aims to highlight inner beauty by writing down personal affirmations without focusing on physical appearance. Students are encouraged to stick these notes on their mirrors—showcasing how they are worth more for their accomplishments, kindness, goodness and other inner traits, rather than what they look like on the outside.

Cookie Decorating and Button Making will take place Feb. 4 from 12 to 2:30 p.m. in the University Centre Courtyard, giving students the opportunity to spend time with their peers, decorate cookies and body positivity buttons, and learn more about eating disorders and the modes of support accessible on campus.

The Meal Planning Made Easy event also takes place on Feb. 4, located in the JT Powell building, room 2259, at 2:30 p.m. This event aims to teach students meal planning strategies and budgeting, both of which are especially important to students living off campus for the first time.

Wellness Dietician Cara Kasdorf, gives insight on meal planning and food cravings in a recent interview with The Ontarion.

How can meal planning benefit both physical and mental health?

Meal planning can help ensure you’re eating regular meals

and snacks, which supports steady energy levels, mood and focus throughout the day. This can be especially helpful during busy or stressful times, such as exams, when students may not have as much time or mental bandwidth to decide what to eat. Setting aside a small amount of time to plan meals. Preparing a few items ahead can help make nourishing food available even on busy days, which supports both physical health and mental well-being.

What should meal planning look like?

Meal planning can look different for everyone. For some people, it might mean choosing two or three meals to prepare for the week. For others, it may involve a more detailed plan for each day.

A simple starting point is to think of a few go-to options for breakfasts, lunches and dinners, and then create a grocery list based on the ingredients needed. Meal planning doesn’t have to be time consuming, but it can help save money, reduce stress around food choices and decrease reliance on convenience foods or eating out.

Another event taking place on Feb. 4 is the Better Sleep Program, hosted online at 7 p.m. As the semester moves along and courses become busier, sleep is often put on the back burner for many hard-working students. The Better Sleep Program teaches effective sleep strategies that stray from the use of drugs, teaching research-based techniques, how to clear your mind and how to decrease insomnia.

Student safety is emphasized in the Harm Reduction 101 Training event on Feb. 5 at 12:30 p.m. Located in room 441 of the University Centre, this event is co-hosted by the Wellington Guelph Drug Strategy and the Sanguen Health Centre to promote safer substance use. This training will allow students to feel

more prepared during substance-related instances and help build safer environments. Participants will also be given free naloxone kits.

To celebrate Black History Month, Student Wellness is joined by Cultural Diversity for The Hair Chronicles: Campus Braids & Wellness Workshop. On Feb. 10 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the John Eccles Centre, this event teaches the historical and cultural significance of Black hair and provides students the opportunity to learn new techniques, styles, hair-care tips and more, with the help of student stylists and local professionals! Join the event to learn and connect with others.

The Managing Cravings event, hosted by Kasdorf, is being held in the JT Powell building, room 2259, on Feb. 11 from 2:30 to 3:20 p.m. Why do cravings occur during periods of stress?

During periods of stress, the body releases hormones like cortisol, which can increase appetite and cravings, especially for foods that are quick sources of energy, such as carbohydrates. Stress can also disrupt regular eating patterns, leading people to skip meals or go long stretches without eating, which can intensify cravings later in the day. Food can also provide comfort or familiarity during stressful times, so cravings may also be linked to emotional regulation rather than physical hunger alone.

What is the difference between healthy cravings and unhealthy cravings?

There really aren’t “healthy” or “unhealthy” cravings. Cravings can occur for many reasons, and approaching them with curi-

osity rather than judgment can be helpful. Sometimes cravings are a sign of under-eating or going too long without food, so it may be a way that your body and brain are asking for more energy and nutrition. Cravings can also be triggered by emotions, boredom, fatigue, habits or enjoyment of certain foods. All of these are valid reasons to eat. If cravings feel intense or frequent, exploring what’s driving them can be useful. Responding to cravings when they come up can also help prevent them from becoming stronger or more persistent over time.

Student Wellness is hosting many celebratory and educational events for Valentine’s Day. The SAFE Team is hosting Boundaries in Action on Feb. 11 in the University Centre Courtyard from 12 to 2:30 p.m. Students will learn about healthy boundaries in a variety of contexts and how they can be established.

Also on Feb.11 is Valentine Mocktails, co-hosted by Student Housing from 6:45 to 8 p.m. During this event, students will make and enjoy four non-alcoholic drinks! More information about this event can be found on GryphLife.

Sexy Science Trivia with Eva Bloom will be held on Feb. 12 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in Brass Taps. Bloom, a queer sex educator and coach, will host this exciting event with questions focused on relationships and the science behind sex. More information about their work can be found on their digital education platform, @whatsmybodydoing. Show up, participate and win prizes!

As well, learn more about consent, healthy relationships and get

free flowers and sexual health supplies from the Shaggin’ Wagon and Flower Giveaway. The wagon can be found around campus on Feb. 13 from 12 to 2:30 p.m.

To end the month, the Wellness Centre will be hosting Managing Low Appetite from 2:30 to 3:20 p.m. on Feb. 25. In JTP room 2259, dietician Lindzie O’Reilly will teach students about appetites and how to deal with a lack thereof.

How does low appetite affect students’ academic performance?

Low appetite can lead to inadequate food intake, which means the body and brain may not be getting enough energy or nutrients. This can contribute to fatigue, difficulty concentrating and reduced focus, all of which can negatively impact academic performance, especially during more demanding periods like midterms or finals.

Does the appetite directly reflect mental wellbeing?

Appetite can reflect mental well-being, as mental health challenges, such as increased stress, anxiety or depression, can sometimes reduce appetite. At the same time, the brain requires consistent energy, carbohydrates and other key nutrients to function optimally. Even when appetite or interest in food is low, finding strategies to maintain adequate nourishment is important, as regular eating can help support both brain function and mental health outcomes.

To join these events, RSVP on Gryphlife located under “Wellness Education Centre Events.”

A gentle guide to embracing dark evenings

Four tips to make the most of daylight savings

MANZIL GROVER

I

n the chaos of running towards the end of the tunnel in search of light, the journey itself is often overlooked. The traverse amidst the cold air, deafening silence and shared solitude, forms a journey through the darkness. But what is it about finding the light? What if one takes a pause, stops, breathes and reflects? They realize that in this moment, they have in fact found life. This is the moment that becomes eternally theirs and now they have the right to hold onto it until it feels easy.

Whenever the phone screen

lights up bright with the numbers 17:00 on its display, suddenly it’s the time to look outside the window and fall into the vastness of the dark sky waiting to hear a writer’s thoughts, waiting to be consumed by a painter’s art or a musician’s notes. In this gloomy and mundane season, here are four ways one can find mirth in the dark evenings and combat seasonal affective disorder:

Give in

It is only when one gives in

Winter programming at the Arboretum

Enjoy the cold with in-person and virtual workshops all season

PAIGE FIRMAN

The Arboretum offers in-person and virtual workshops throughout the winter with options ranging from Tree I.D. to animal tracking.

Virtual workshops give participants a chance to learn and connect with nature from the comfort of their homes. On Feb. 5, join the Virtual Winter Tree I.D. workshop. On Feb. 11, learn about The Wonderful World of Houseplants –Cultivating your Indoor Spaces.

In-person events also continue throughout the winter, offering participants an opportunity to get outside and learn something new. Some of the events taking place include Owl Prowl, hosted by Wild Ontario and the Arboretum, teaching people about owls with opportunities to meet the Wild Ontario owls before joining a guided walk. This workshop is offered Feb. 6 for families and Feb. 7 for adults.

Introduction to Animal Tracking will take place on Feb. 7 to teach participants how to identify and interpret animal tracks in the Arboretum. Then, get bundled up for a Winter Birdwatching Hike that takes place on Feb. 13, Feb. 14 and Feb. 15. Another opportunity for Winter Tree I.D. takes place on Feb. 21 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., this time in person, so dress warmly.

Stargazing is also offered in the Arboretum, although this workshop is dependent on the weather. Hosts suggest you sign up for free if interested and they will let you know when dates are available. Currently, the tentative schedule is for Feb. 26 or March 26.

The Winter Storytelling Series with Cara Loft continues on the last Friday of every month, with February’s landing on Feb. 27 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.

space for loved ones and one’s own self in both physical and mental spaces.

Sleep heavy

that they truly fathom what peace dark evenings can offer. These can be the best evenings to simply match the pace of the slow winters and declutter the mind, offering serenity to the soul and warmth to the body. Through the hectic schedule of midterms waiting on the front porch, giving time to oneself becomes even more crucial. It not only helps one heal the mess from within but also the surroundings. Use this time to organize thoughts, with a pen and journal in hand, or organize cupboards, wardrobes and also make

It is imperative to get eight hours of sleep each night. Bodies sleep better, heal and grow in the dark. In the afternoons, shut the blinds, light a vanilla-scented candle and play calm ambient music while giving up utterly to the darkness. It is so surreal to be wandering off to the warmest carrels of memories, connecting the mind and the soul directly with one another. It becomes not only a space to reminisce, but also to contemplate at a deeper level. In that void looking space one creates for themselves, they end up seeking answers to questions that seemed inexplicable.

Go outdoors

As the dark slithers inside every inch of the body, making the blood grow cold and bones grow weak, one must go outdoors and breathe fresh air. Try parting

ways from artificial light, screen time and emails, and step outside–yes, in the cold–to truly feel. Let the cold air caress the face. Walk without a destination, watch the clouds form and deform slowly as the time passes and the blue hues gently sneak in. Notice the subtle hum of the streetlights and several unheard stories behind lit windows. Moving through the darkness builds resilience and helps one combat inactivity during harsh winters.

Create art

As the sun settles and the colours disappear from the sky, the dark invites one to create art in their own style and way. It is the time to pick up those paintbrushes that were left untouched since the age of 15, that music instrument drowning in dust, or simply a piece of paper and pen to vent it all out. This could also involve simply listening to music in solitude or with roommates, sipping a cup of hot chocolate and embracing the joys and the opportunities slow winter evenings have to offer.

Meanwhile, Bird Anatomy Illustration is hosted on Feb. 21 providing a basic understanding of bird anatomy and how to illustrate birds of any family.

The Arboretum has 12.5 kilometers of trails with walking, running and cross-country skiing being popular pastimes. The Trillium Trail is said to be the best

for cross-country skiing, at two kilometers length through a variety of plant collections. Geocaching is also available throughout the Arboretum, using a GPS to share its location. Geocaching is a fun way to get out and explore new areas. Last but not least, every Wednesday at 12:15 p.m., there is a one-hour free guided walk, meet-

ing at the Hales McKay Shelter near the Arboretum Centre. Arboretum Naturalist Interns, Christa and Joseph, lead these walks weekly although they may cancel for inclement weather. There are also virtual guided walks posted on the Arboretum website, along with a variety of resources for anyone interested in learning more.

New year, new rankings

Highlighting two Gryphons teams that have made an impact in the OUA and beyond

SOPHIA PHILBERT

Jan. 13 marked the release of U SPORTS Canada’s recent national rankings for the 2025-2026 season. These rankings seek to provide Canadian university athletic teams with increased visibility at the national level, recognizing top performing programs around the country. Highlighted as being the best of that week, two Guelph Gryphon teams found their way up the rankings, with women's basketball making its debut appearance in the rankings for the first time this season at No. 10 and women's

How

hockey jumping ahead to No. 7.

This week also saw the Gryphons women's basketball team enter the national rankings for the first time this season at No.10—349 days after last appearing in the Top 10 U SPORTS ranking on Jan. 29, 2025. The Gryphons found themselves back in action at home, with statement wins over OUA West divisional competitors, Windsor and Western.

Jan. 10 featured an impressive defensive effort as the Gryphons fought hard on the final posses-

to become ‘chronically

offline’

Disconnect from the internet and reconnect to your life

During the advent of social media, it was hardly a concern that one might be spending too much time online. And why would there be? Who doesn’t want a way to stay in touch with all their friends and acquaintances? Especially when it’s so engaging and requires such little effort. In the 20-some odd years since, however, social media has undergone a massive transition and dragged our culture down with it.

What started as an innocent medium to send messages and share photos has become a pervasive data-stealing machine and has co-opted the minds of billions around the world. Social media companies, including Meta, the owner of Instagram and Facebook, and ByteDance, the owner of TikTok, are doing everything in their power to capture the attention of the masses. But people are starting to catch on, and the urge to reclaim time, attention and autonomy away from the internet has led to growing Gen-Z trends— such as adopting analog technologies and forcing oneself to stare at a wall in lieu of scrolling.

This shift in popular opinion concerning social media has given

sion to earn a close win over the Western Mustangs, 78-77. Jan. 11 spotlighted the Gryphons’ offensive depth as the Guelph Gryphons pulled away from the Windsor Lancers, connecting for nine three-pointers followed by a 19-3 run, to put away the game with a final score of 73-57.

After defeating the No. 3 ranked Queens Gaels in a 2-0 victory, the Guelph Gryphons women’s hockey team also climbed up in the latest national Top 10 rankings. The Gryphons came out

blazing as a wristshot by forward Katie Dance put them in the lead early, only 93 seconds into the game. Their second goal by defenseman Reese Coffee doubled down on the Gryphons lead, allowing goaltender Sophie Helfenstein to seal the game, stopping 24 of 24 shots for the 10th shutout of her OUA career and her 5th shutout this year. Following a weekend split that included another shutout over the York Lions, and a loss to the Waterloo Warriors, the Guelph Gryphons women’s hockey

improved to 13-2-3 on the season and remains in second place in the OUA West.

Demonstrating strong offensive prowess and outstanding defensive performances the Guelph Gryphons dominated on the court and the ice, earning their respective spots in the Top 10. Looking ahead to Feb. 6, the Gryphons women’s basketball look for a win at home against the on TMU Bold, while women’s hockey face off against a divisional opponent, the York Lions.

birth to the term “chronically offline.” To be chronically offline is to spend little enough time on the internet that you are rarely found with an online presence and are oblivious to internet trends. It is now common for previously regular social media users to aim for a chronically offline status. Although there is certainly a change in how people perceive their social media consumption, there may be a disconnect with how people behave regarding social media.

A quick glance around any city bus shows the problematic extent to which people are addicted to their phones. Although many wish they could spend less time on a screen, they often lack strategies or motivation to do so. There exists an extensive list of negative effects of high device usage, some of the most potent being decreased productivity, weakened communities, broken attention spans and decaying mental health.

Despite the objectively bad, social media does contain some glimpses of good. Two largely inimitable features of social media are the ease that a person can connect with acquaintances, along with its ability to uplift and pro-

THE ONTARION

mote underrepresented voices. These aspects should not be overlooked, but their existence is often an excuse to continue misuse of the platforms. This is why the first step of achieving chronic offline status is to acknowledge the parts of social media you truly value. By acknowledging this, you can decide what parts you want to keep and what parts you need to get rid of.

There are some great tools that will allow you to maintain the positive uses of social media while minimizing the negative impacts. The app ScreenZen is great for managing daily screen time and can force you to wait for a minute or solve a puzzle before

opening an app. This is useful to stop opening social media mindlessly and finding yourself scrolling without even realizing.

Another app, Beeper, allows you to read and send direct messages from your social media accounts without having the platforms downloaded. The web extension AntiGram lets you block the distracting parts of Instagram on your browser while allowing you to access the sections you want. By using whatever tools or strategies are needed, you can add friction to a social media habit and drastically reduce its allure.

Once you’ve taken the first steps to reducing your social me-

dia, it’s easy to fall back into old patterns. Redownloading an app one time can result in losing all the progress you’ve made. The best way to combat this is with social accountability.

Find a friend who is also feeling tired of social media and make an agreement with them. You can set the terms however you want, but the best way to do it is to delete social media entirely for a set period. A friendly punishment or bet is also a fun way to hold each other accountable. This may seem daunting, but this exercise will only make you realize how much better your life is when you become chronically offline.

Hearty winter soups to warm you this season

Try out these colourful and fibrepacked soups

ASHLEY MAROZSAN

To survive a Canadian winter, you only need three things: a warm winter jacket, winter boots and a couple of good soup recipes on rotation. Luckily, The Ontarion can help out with that last one, delivering two new soup recipes to carry you into warmer days.

GOLDEN TURMERIC VEGETABLE SOUP

Golden turmeric vegetable soup is a household staple when cold and flu season rolls around.

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 45 minutes

Yield: 6 to 8 servings

The seasonings used in this recipe can be customized to taste. Turmeric is an earthy, slightly bitter-tasting spice, so it is best to counterbalance with another earthy, brighter-tasting spice such as curry powder, ginger or cumin.

Ingredients:

• 1 yellow onion, diced

• 3 cloves of garlic, minced

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• 3 carrots, roughly chopped

• 3 celery ribs, roughly chopped

• 1 tbsp turmeric powder

• 2 tsp curry powder

• 1 tsp Herbes de Provence (or herb blend of choice)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 8 cups vegetable broth

• 2 medium potatoes, cubed

• ⅔ cup small pasta of any shape (shell, alphabet, etc.)

• ½ lemon, juiced

• Milk, plant-based or dairy, such as cream or sour cream (optional)

Instructions:

1. Add onion and garlic to a Dutch oven or large pot with olive oil. Cook over high heat, reducing to medium heat once sizzling, and allow to cook until onions are translucent, stirring occasionally (3 to 5 minutes).

2. Add carrots and celery to the pot and stir to incorporate. Let cook for 10 to 12 minutes.

3. Add turmeric, curry powder and Herbes de Provence and mix. Let simmer for 2 minutes.

4. Deglaze pot with just enough broth to cover the vegetables and stir. After a couple of minutes, add the remaining broth and stir. Let cook for 10 minutes.

Women’s hockey: She’s Got Game

The Gryphons women’s hockey team supports the She’s Got Game initiative

MADISON WOLF

On Jan. 10th, the Guelph Gryphons Women's Hockey team took on the Queen’s University Gaels. It was a tough match, with the Gaels ranked third in the division and the Gryphons ranked ninth, but the Gryphons prevailed with a 2–0 win. The goals were scored by Katie Dance with a quick wrist shot in the first, and

5. Add cubed potatoes and allow them to cook in the soup for 10 minutes. If omitting pasta, double the amount of potatoes.

6. Add pasta and let simmer in the soup for 7 to 8 minutes. If omitting potatoes, double the amount of pasta.

7. When pasta is done cooking, remove the soup pot from the heat and let stand. Stir in the lemon juice. Salt and pepper to taste. Adding a bit of milk or dairy is optional, but it gives the soup a pleasant creaminess and balances out some of the earthiness from the turmeric. Add just enough milk to make the broth a vibrant, opaque yellow.

If storing, the milk can be added after reheating and before serving. If there are a lot of pasta noodles in the soup, they may absorb a lot of the broth. Before reheating, add a little extra broth or water until a desired consistency is achieved.

HEARTY, FIBRE-PACKED CHILLI

This next recipe is a hearty, fibre-packed chilli. While not technically a soup, this is the perfect meal for a cold winter day. This is a great recipe for anyone who is looking to increase their fibre or vegetable intake while still enjoying delicious food. Chilli is a highly customizable recipe and ingredients can be added or substituted to fit personal taste.

Prep time: 15 minutes

Cook time: 45 minutes Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients:

• 1 yellow onion, diced

• 1 bell pepper, diced

• 2 carrots, roughly chopped

• 2 celery ribs, roughly chopped

• Salt, to taste

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp chili powder

• 2 tsp cumin

• 1 ½ tsp paprika

• 1 tsp oregano

• Two 540-mL cans diced tomatoes

• Two 398-mL cans black beans, rinsed and dried

• Two 398-mL cans kidney beans, rinsed and dried

• 2 cups vegetable broth

• 1 bay leaf

• 2 tsp lime juice

• 2 tsp olive oil

Toppings (optional):

• Shredded cheese

• Tortilla chips

• Instructions:

1. Add olive oil to a Dutch oven or large soup pot and warm on medium heat. Add onion, bell pepper, carrots, celery and stir. Let cook for around

10 minutes, until soft.

2. Add minced garlic, salt, chili powder, cumin, paprika and oregano to the vegetables. Stir and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

3. Add tomatoes, beans and broth. Stir to combine. Add bay leaf. Allow to gently simmer for 30 minutes.

4. Take the pot off the burner and remove the bay leaf. Add lime juice and salt to taste.

5. Serve in a bowl and add any desired toppings. This recipe makes a chunky style chili. For a smoother texture, add half of the chilli to a blender and blend until smooth before adding it back to the pot. Alternatively, use an immersion blender until desired consistency. Do not use an immersion blender in a Dutch oven, as metal or electric cooking utensils can damage the enamel, which should not be consumed.

then by Reese Coffey in the second. Gryphon’s goaltender Sophie Helfenstein’s fifth shutout of the season wasn’t the only monumental occasion, as it was also the special Alumni Day and She’s Got Game match. She’s Got Game is an initiative started by the University of Guelph’s Department of Athletics

that is committed to gender equity in scholarship distribution, growing the number of scholarships for women, and aspirations for world-class women athletes, scholars and citizens. The goal of the program is to introduce young girls to sports and help them find the tools they

need to succeed on and off the field of play, develop gender balance for women and girls within sport, and focus on positive actions that lead to the recruitment and progression of women in sports. By partnering with the OUA and U Sports, She’s Got Game is able to raise money through fundrais-

ers, the annual “She’s Got Game Month” of February highlighted by its gala event, city-wide SGG Pizza Day, mentoring, marketing and apparel.

To donate to the initiative, or learn more about She’s Got Game, visit their website at www. shesgotgame.ca

The death of nuance

As online discourse breeds hate within our communities, the distinction between political critique and bigotry is fading

BEN SEATON

Iscroll through the endless stream of short-form videos perfectly crafted to grab my attention, in what has now become a debilitating nightly habit. Somehow, I have a flawlessly curated algorithm of hate and general degradation. In this marvellous feed of all the worst things a human

can consume before laying their head down for the night, I stumble upon a video of my favourite deli in Toronto: Pancer’s Original Deli, a place I have spent countless hours with family, and a staple of Toronto’s Bathurst and Wilson neighbourhood.

The video starts with, “Is this

U of G’s new logo emphasizes our shared Gryphon identity

Reflecting on the university’s rebranding

GRIFFIN MCGREGOR

The University of Guelph’s updated logo has sparked a conversation across campus. The logo is now clearer and more modern, but it also reminds us of what the Gryphon has always meant to Guelph. While many people on campus have welcomed the new logo for its clarity and modern appeal, it’s the original that continues to resonate with me. It was classic, simple and clean, carrying a sense of formality and prestige that felt right for a university. It felt timeless and familiar, tied to everyday campus life and to the experiences of students

Toronto’s definitive Jewish Deli?” I rush to the comments, eager to see what people have to say about a cuisine and culture that have played such a significant role in my upbringing. My enthusiasm, however, was curbed by the first comment I read: “Thanks for letting me know, time to boycott this trash.”

Under normal circumstances and in a different time, this comment would have caught me by surprise. Unfortunately, this comment, along with the numerous strings of comments under this post sharing a similar sentiment, has become something I now expect to see online. I am no longer caught off guard by anti-semitism, as it has become something I expect—something I have accepted as commonplace when navigating the corridors of the internet.

But who is to blame? Is the ignorant hate directed towards an entire religion just a reaction to the conflict in the Middle East? Or has this conflict just uncovered

a bigotry that has lain dormant in the hearts of many for countless years? And where is the deafening outcry to end this hate?

It would be difficult to write an article about anti-semitism while largely ignoring the conflict in the Middle East, which I recognize is a main cause of the criticism towards the Jewish community. There is a difference between criticizing a religion and criticizing a state, especially if that state is theocratic. One would be entirely within their right to criticize Israel for its actions throughout this conflict, just as one would be entirely in their right to criticize Iran for the thousands killed by its government amid recent protests.

The problem arises when these conflicts and protests change the way Muslims and Jews are treated within Canada. It is safe to say that you do not know somebody’s political beliefs purely based on their religion or the restaurants they frequent. So why boycott a restaurant with no apparent ties to

Israel just because they are proud to be rooted in Jewish tradition? There is no way to incentivize love by spreading hate, and this is the basis of the way our generation was supposed to be raised. So why does it feel like we are going backwards? Does your compassion not extend towards those with whom you disagree? Political discourse is unfortunately set up in a way that it facilitates hate, regardless of how noble you believe your message to be.

Boycotting businesses because they are Jewish-owned is not political activism; it is a form of collective punishment, and it is anti-semetic. Our ability as a whole to distinguish between state and religion seems to be rapidly deteriorating, which is evident by the sheer volume of social media posts made in a similar vein to the one that sparked this dialogue for me. If we truly wish to find peace overseas, we can start by supporting multiculturalism in our own communities.

and alumni who have been part of Guelph over the years.

For many students, staff and alumni, that logo wasn’t just branding, it was Guelph. A mark that carried more meaning than we often give it credit for. The old Gryphon, even with its quirks and occasional “camel with wings” comparisons, had personality. It felt mature and academic, capturing both the seriousness of learning and the sense of community that makes Guelph what it is.

The new logo gives up some of that seriousness in exchange for

New U of G logo sparks conversation. Logos provided by University of Guelph, Communications & Marketing

clarity and accessibility. It’s easier to read, easier to recognize and more aligned with modern branding standards. It works especially well in athletics and merchandise, where boldness and visibility matter.

That said, the new logo isn’t without its issues. To some, it feels a bit childish, almost like something you’d expect from an elementary school. The font can come across as overly animated, and there's also

a sense that it looks AI-generated rather than handcrafted. For a university, those reactions matter because tradition and credibility still count.

What makes this evolution land more gently is how it was done. It was built in-house, shaped by students, faculty, staff, athletes, alumni and designers who actually live the Gryphon experience. More than 400 people across campus were involved in the process, and

that matters. The logo isn’t just representing us, it was made by us. And that’s really the point of all of this. Being a Gryphon isn’t about logos at all. It’s about the reality of being a student here: the work, the pressure, the community and the experiences that stay with you long after you leave campus. Those things are what actually define this place, regardless of how the Gryphon is drawn or what font is used.

The new branding emphasizes unity by putting the Gryphon at the center of the university’s identity. It reflects what students have always known: academics, athletics and campus life which are all closely connected at Guelph. Regardless of logo design, that shared Gryphon identity is still a core part of the University.

No logo is ever going to fully capture what it feels like to be part of this place. At the end of the day, a logo is just a symbol. What actually defines Guelph is how people experience it day to day and the reasons they choose to stay connected to it, because it feels like a place they belong.

So yes, debate the font. Compare the wings. Miss the old crest or embrace the new one. Those conversations come from people who care about this place. But at the end of the day, being a Gryphon has never been about looking perfect. It’s about showing up together and doing the work to Improve life. No redesign changes that.

Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow supports the working class and marginalized communities

TTC improvements and the “Toronto For All” campaign are examples of her care for Torontonians

SHARON HUANG

In spite of her controversial 2025 tax hike, Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow is a great mayor. She takes accountability for the failings of public transportation, works to support the working class and attempts to make the city a safer place for marginalized communities.

On Mar. 30, 2025, Chow announced increased bus service on 14 bus routes in North York, Etobicoke and Scarborough, where the working class population—primarily immigrants and people of colour— use those lines of transit to commute to work and school. Increased bus service and

reduced wait times make it easier for riders to reach their destinations on time, enabling us to maintain positive relationships with employers, educators and healthcare providers. But it's one thing to see it on paper and another to see it in action.

In my recent visits to Scarborough, the first thing I noticed was an increased frequency of buses. Instead of one bus arriving once every 10 minutes, a small fleet of 53 Steeles East buses arrives every few minutes.

“Torontonians deserve better, more frequent transit, and that’s exactly what our investments are delivering,” said Chow in

TTC statement. “Our historic TTC investment in Budget 2025 is funding more frequent, reliable, and affordable public transit that connects Torontonians to schools, jobs, and each other.”

Following complaints of slow service on the newly opened—and long-awaited—Eglinton LRT, Chow proposed a motion to direct the city manager to implement transit signal priority to streetcars, which would effectively speed up streetcars.

Chow’s support for the working class comes through in her projects aimed to provide free support networks for tenants. She encourages tenants to call the non-emergency line, 311, for renovictions, rent hikes and maintenance issues.

Despite the great changes she has made for the city thus far, there’s a significant number of people who disagree with her

proposed tax hike of 6.9 per cent in 2025. Although property owners are paying more, they have the privilege of owning property, instead of renting—which comes with a unique set of challenges in a city that faces a severe housing crisis.

The monies gained from tax increases works to redistribute wealth in support of lower-income residents. The funding obtained from property taxes is being used to decrease city debt, and it provides funding for programs that benefit Toronto’s working class population.

Chow is dedicated to serving members of her community, not just in terms of increasing affordability and access, but in making Toronto a more equitable and safe place for people of East Asian descent—people like me.

Following a spike in anti-Asian rhetoric and hate crimes in 2023, she worked with city councillors and Amy Go, president of the Chinese Canadian National Council for Social Justice, to launch the “Toronto For All” public education campaign. The campaign posters featured drawings of East Asian cultural imports that are consumed by non-Asian people—bubble tea and K-pop— with a simple question to get people to confront their complicity to anti-Asian racism.

In what could potentially be her final year as Toronto’s mayor, she proposes a lowered tax increase at 2.2 per cent. In an interview with CBC, she said, “We need more, of course, but because all we have is the poor property taxpayer, right, we only get like nine per cent of the taxes you pay to our every level of government.”

Films for a vintage Valentine’s Day

Older romance flicks that deserve a watch

NED BARR

When asked for romance movie recommendations, most point to the golden age of happy-go-lucky love films: hopeful 2000’s nostalgia like How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days, 13 Going on 30 or Love, Actually—or maybe more indie flicks from the 2010’s such as Carol, Submarine or Call Me By Your Name. But what about their forebears? What about the nauseatingly sweet romance films of yore, the

ones watched by teenage couples fumbling to hold hands in movie theatres at the time? Here are four films lesser known by most but equally deserving of a watch this Valentine’s Day.

Barefoot in the Park (Gene Saks, 1967)

With a cast as talented and beautiful as Jane Fonda and Robert Redford in their 60’s heyday, it is no wonder that Barefoot in the Park makes for an enjoyable romp. The movie, based on the stage play of the same name, centers around the relationship between free spirit Corie (Fonda) and her tightly-wound husband Paul (Redford, who also played the character on Broadway before the film’s release), newlyweds who have just moved into their new apartment. It has everything you could want in a romance film: sleigh rides, banish-

The unspoken joy of platonic love A love beyond romance

SOFIA KUPKA

While romantic love seems to be all the rage in February, platonic love is equally as important, if not more. Platonic love is different from romantic love. It's based more on emotional connection rather than physical attraction. It doesn't need passion, expectations or commitment to thrive, it needs trust and understanding. Romantic love can be meaningful but often changes as people evolve and transform. Friendships, on the other hand, are more stable and allow for growth. Writer Dolly Alderton discusses platonic love in her memoir, Everything I Know About Love. Boyfriends came and went throughout Alderton’s life and the only characters that remained constant were her girlfriends.

Friendships between women

ment to the couch and rooftop kisses. Less of a get-together story and more of a stay-together story, Barefoot contrasts the typical genre of cute situational comedy with playwright Neil Simon’s more thought provoking underlying theme: how much do you change to remain in a relationship with someone you love, yet who is so fundamentally different from you? The answer, if married to Jane Fonda, is everything.

What’s Up, Doc?

(Peter Bogdanovich, 1972)

What’s Up, Doc stars former lovers Barbra Streisand and Ryan O’Neal as firebrand Judy Maxwell and married musicologist Dr. Howard Bannister, both of whom get caught up in a scheme involving four identical plaid bags at their hotel. The film has slapstick physical comedy style easily recognizable as influenced by Buster Keaton and old Looney Tunes—towards the end of the movie, as the leads exchange confessions on a plane, the airplane screens show part of a Bugs Bunny cartoon that shares the title of the movie. Very few good romances nowadays involve the main characters getting caught up in international espionage and thievery, two art forms lost to the comic styles no longer

emotional and personal growth. Unlike some romantic relationships, friendships don’t require as much emotional dependence and attention. Having strong friendships allows people to discover who they are and helps them grow outside of romantic relationships. Friends give honest advice and offer emotional reassurance without pressure, proving that intimacy is not exclusive to romantic relationships.

can be especially fulfilling. Women may connect better with one another, bonding over similar lived experiences and social pressures. These friendships provide empathy, warmth, and a sense of belonging and understanding unique to platonic love.

Platonic love does not require grand gestures to be visible as it shows up everywhere. Dancing with your friends in the kitchen, having long phone calls, dissecting the new gossip, getting ready together, sharing clothes, doing each other's makeup and laughing about a joke from four years ago that's still funny. All these little moments are natural to friendships and are what make platonic love special and unique.

Platonic love also supports

appreciated by the mainstream. Its timeliness may have directly influenced its reputation as a feel good comfort movie still celebrated on various cinema-oriented corners of the internet.

Bringing up Baby

(Howard Hawks, 1938)

For the more classic but still comedy inclined, Old Hollywood royalty Cary Grant and Katherine Hepburn team up in Bringing up Baby, a quick-witted screwball rom-com. David (Grant), an amiable soon-to-be-married paleontologist, meets flighty heiress Susan (Hepburn), and the movie soon spirals into chaos surrounding Susan’s pet leopard, Baby, as well as the couple’s growing attraction to one another—moreso Susan’s attraction with David, growing so strong that she steals his clothes to prevent him from getting married and he subsequently walks around in her negligee. More of a hectic caper than Grant and Hepburn’s later film with Jimmy Stewart, The Philadelphia Story, the vaudeville elements of comedic training shine through fantastically in the performances of the leads. It has long been debated as to when this “Golden Age” of the American picture died out, but this film is the clearest example

of the smooth and picturesque black-and-white romance film so beloved at the time.

Broadcast News (James L. Brooks, 1987)

Swinging dramatically from the silky splendour of the 1930’s to the fast-paced technological landscape of the 1980’s, Broadcast News is a classic love triangle film that stars Holly Hunter as Jane, a TV news producer, with Albert Brooks and William Hurt playing Aaron and Tom, two polar opposite rival reporters connected solely due to their love for Jane. She finds herself pinned between Aaron, well meaning but anxious, and Tom, who is charismatic but vapid. Under the veneer of a Reagan-era romantic comedy, the film in fact touches heavily on more controversial topics and timely historical events. A strong focus on proper journalistic ethics and good reporting is clear here, all the more important in this day and age as we continue to see suppression of the fourth estate. For those who are looking to be simultaneously entertained and intellectually challenged, and for those who appreciate the look and feel of saturated eighties office spaces, you can’t get better than this.

While romantic relationships are healthy and gratifying, prioritizing them and ignoring friendships can be harmful. In many such cases people will get into a relationship and then prioritize that person over their other nonromantic relationships. While this is seen as normal, it is actually damaging and leads to emotional isolation. This happens because unfortunately, many young people see a relationship as the only key to happiness. They see friendships as placeholders until their romantic partner arrives. Sadly, in today's day and age, social media and societal pressures often reinforce the idea that women are incomplete without a partner. This mindset is damaging to young women, lessening the powerful

love and support that friendships provide. In a society that puts so much emphasis on romantic relationships, it's important to remember that friendships are just as import-

ant and should be as desired as a relationship. Platonic love offers stability, unconditional support and of course laughter. Having a strong group of friends is the key to happiness and success.

Heartbreak as art

How female artists are owning their splits

KIERA SCHARF

Female musicians have been criticised time and time again for writing about failed love— heartbreak, divorce and breakups—but really, these songs and albums could be some of their best work to date. These artists are fueled by their hurt to write something angry and sad that showcases exactly how they are feeling, transforming those emotions into beautiful work.

It is truly a work of art when

an entire album recounts the full story of a split. It allows the listener to be brought on the journey and dive deeper into how everything played out. As controversial as these albums can be, they are also extremely helpful to people who are going through something similar. These pieces can be relatable and allow people in the same situations to understand that they are not alone, which is an immensely powerful tool.

The recent release of Lily Allen’s West End Girl paints a detailed picture of the collapse of her fouryear marriage with David Harbour, which includes infidelity, betrayal and a failed attempt at an open relationship. It highlights the raw and vulnerable emotions behind a divorce.

West End Girl calls to mind another divorce album—Adele’s 30, which serves as an autobiographical and deeply personal account of her separation from Simon Koneki. 30 voices themes of anxiety and self-destruction with the guilt of telling her son about the split.

Lemonade by Beyoncé resembles a divorce album as it explores her sense of betrayal after her husband, Jay-Z, committed infidelity. Lemonade’s narrative takes listeners on a tell-all journey through discovery, anger, heartbreak and eventual healing.

Then, there are iconic breakup albums, like the scathing and fierce Jagged Little Pill by Alanis Mourisette. Despite the fact that

it has never been confirmed that the album is about her split with Dave Coulier, there are evident connections. The album is angry, fiery and about her gradual growth after the heartbreak.

Rumours by Fleetwood Mac is similarly fiery, but a little more complicated, as it’s about three simultaneous breakups within the band. These splits allowed the group to channel every ounce of pain into their work—resulting in the timeless and iconic songs such as “Go Your Own Way,” “The Chain” and “Dreams.” These songs effortlessly capture different angles of their fractured relationships, creating a classic album amidst drug use and nonstop chaos.

Swifties are sure to know Red by Taylor Swift, which Swift described as her only true breakup album, mainly inspired by her short-lived but intense relationship with Jake Gyllenhaal. Swift suffered from writer’s block for an entire six months after the

Spending Valentine’s day solo?

Valentine’s Day can be easily overlooked by those who aren’t in a relationship. It may even be a time that brings up past heartbreak or yearning for that special someone. Solo dates are an opportunity to boost your confidence and self-love, and give you an opportunity to do something enjoyable while connecting or reconnecting, with yourself. This Valentine’s Day, give solo dates a shot! Try out a new experience, workshop or store that vibrant

downtown Guelph has to offer. When you hear “Valentine’s Day,” flowers come to mind: elaborate red and pink bouquets or thin stems of roses. This year, why not buy yourself flowers? On Feb. 13th, Waterworks Food Hall is hosting a flower arrangement workshop for singles. This workshop includes a guided flower arrangement workshop, writing materials for reflection and conversation prompts to connect with other attendees, with the option

EDITA TREACY

to purchase food and drinks on site.

If you’d prefer to spend the day watching a live show, Femmes Rebelles Burlesque is hosting an evening of burlesque, titled “Femmes de la Creme Burlesque” on Feb. 14 at 7 p.m. Hosted at Royal City Mission, this event promises mesmerizing performances and a night celebrating all types of love and sensuality!

For those hoping for their solo date to connect with their

breakup, feeling overpowered by pain. However, by channelling her intense emotions into songwriting, Swift was able to describe how messy a breakup can actually be, proving how therapeutic it is to write music about heartbreak. These breakup albums can be very powerful as well as reclamatory. Listeners view breakup albums as an influential and dominant form of artist expression. For the artists, they can be a necessary and cathartic step in the direction of healing, by writing about a painful experience and getting it all out. When artists share their own vulnerabilities, it allows others to feel more seen and less alone, creating a universal connection to people who have been through the same thing. Writing their own narrative is also important for artists because it allows them to take control of the situation and share their side of the story, before external gossip can define their narrative.

On the other hand, some may deem heartbreak albums as an unnecessary way to air out dirty laundry. For starters, there are privacy concerns that go along with publicizing a relationship. Putting out negative stories of someone can exploit their privacy as well as put the rest of their family at risk, like their children. There are even concerns of artists commercially exposing an ex-partner, using them to promote attention and sales. In many cases, the publicity of an album can actually do the opposite of closure and simply add more conflict than peace.

In the end, it is evident that songwriting about specific breakups can come with some controversial opinions. Even with all the consequences, these situations never fail to produce iconic and timeless music, allowing listeners to relate and listen to them time and time again.

inner foodie, try the St. Jacob’s Market! Open from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. every Saturday and 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Thursday, Canada’s largest year-round market is home to both produce and artisanal vendors. Grab some delectable mushrooms from Frontier Mushrooms to cook yourself a yummy dish, or indulge in delicious rolled ice cream from Roll It Up Ice Cream.

To celebrate Valentine’s day at home, spend an evening try-

ing something new, relaxing, or pampering yourself! Grab your favourite romance novel and read it an epsom salt bath, or try out that cookie recipe you’ve been meaning to make! Classic rom com favourites make for a perfect movie marathon, so make some popcorn, turn on When Harry Met Sally, and enjoy your night! Whatever it is you choose, enjoy the time connecting with yourself and what you love. After all, self-love is forever!

Coping with relationship anxiety

Four tools to help mitigate these feelings

QUINN BELLINI

Picture this: you just started dating someone and it’s going well. You share similar interests, enjoy hanging out with one another and are excited about what’s to come. But out of nowhere, feelings of doubt, hesitation and uncertainty begin taking over your thoughts. Why, brain, must you do this? Rather than allowing yourself to be happy, you begin to overthink. The relationship that was meant to bring you the utmost joy is now

consuming every thought you have and not in a good way. These feelings, in their various forms, constitute relationship anxiety. Sometimes these feelings can be easily dismissed, while at other times they continue to linger in your mind. Regardless, it is important to learn how to cope with relationship anxiety. In doing so, you will better understand why you feel the way you do and most importantly, what to do about it.

Here are four tools that you can use if you’re experiencing relationship anxiety.

Nourish the moment

It can be easy to get caught up in “what ifs” in a relationship, especially when it’s new and so much is uncertain. Anxiety causes many people to lose sight of what is in front of them for fear of being underprepared for something that may or may not become an issue down the road. If you think of a relationship as a flower, you’ll note that flowers must receive water and sunlight to thrive. The same goes for a relationship. It must be nourished with your attention, passion and happiness in order to grow. What lies ahead does not matter if it is not being cared for presently.

Check the facts

Anxious feelings are not necessarily signs of something bad to come and they can be challenged. For example, if you start worrying about being let down by your partner or not being good enough

Is 'Galentine’s' the best way

to spend Valentine’s Day?

You might be single this February, but you don’t have to be alone

MAGGIE ABRADJIAN

With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, the fixation on being in a relationship is hard to ignore. It’s important to remember that Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be all about romance—love exists in many forms. One of the best ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day, whether you’re single or not, is with your friends. For female friend groups, this celebration is often dubbed “Galentine’s,” which prioritizes friendship instead of romance. After all, there are all kinds of national days recognizing significant others—the day of love should apply to friendship too.

Celebrating your friendships is just as important as celebrating romantic relationships or arguably more so. Friends are consistently there for one another, uplifting and encouraging each other through all of life’s hurdles. Your significant other may change, but friends are the most consistent relationship you can have. Galentine’s both appreciates and nurtures that companionship.

The options for Galentine’s celebrations are limitless! Essen-

tially, anything that would make a great date night will also make a great friendship night. This can include going out or staying in for a night full of Valentine’s-themed activities. There are benefits to both options and you could even combine the two to maximize the Galentine’s experience.

Going out gives you an excuse to dress up and have a different kind of “date” night with friends. Grab a nice dinner at your favourite restaurant, go wine tasting or go out for a night on the town. Guelph’s The Attic has a bar and karaoke night running all weekend. What shows friendship more than singing an off-key rendition of your favourite song together?

While dinner and drinks are nice, not all Galentine’s plans have to take place at night. Daytime activities include getting brunch together, going to a spa for a self-care day or doing something creative, like making pottery. Many dishes can be made into heart shapes or painted to fit the Valentine’s theme—bowls,

for them, check the facts. Think about the times that your partner has disproved these anxious claims. Has your partner said or done something that cancels out the negative thoughts you’re having? If so, make a note of it and read it as many times as it takes for you to remember that you are enough.

Communicate

Anxious feelings sometimes cause people to bury their emotions. It may feel easier to suppress your worries than to talk about them with your partner. But if the anxious feelings you’re dealing with have to do with your relationship, then speaking to your partner about them is the best way to clear the air and feel better. Especially in a new relationship when you’re just getting to know one another, it is important to communicate with them any worries you have or things that have been bothering you. Working through this anxiety together helps to build a strong foundation in your relationship.

Stay true to yourself

Relationship anxiety can cause people to lose themselves amidst a constant need for reassurance. When this happens, you may cancel plans with friends just to see your partner, or give up on hobbies that you’ve always enjoyed to please them. If this happens, remind yourself that a relationship is meant to complement your life, not take it over. Dedicate time to yourself every day, whether that is enjoying a hobby or spending time with friends and family. If your relationship is meant to be, your partner will appreciate your authenticity and passion for the things in life that you enjoy. Ultimately, relationship anxiety can pop up at any time, but understanding where those feelings are coming from and how to deal with them is important for your well-being. Feelings can always be communicated, and anxiety does not mean something catastrophic is going to happen. Remember to nourish the moment, check the facts, communicate and stay true to yourself.

plates and even mug handles. Doing something creative that involves a useful keepsake is a fun way to memorialize time spent with friends.

On the other hand, staying in allows you to be comfy and cozy. Another benefit is that the host can curate a personalized Galentine’s playlist, full of upbeat love songs that everyone will enjoy. Even if you don’t go out for karaoke, YouTube has all the hits to sing along to from the comfort of your own home. Other activities, like Valentine’s-themed arts and crafts or game night, foster connection while keeping the vibes casual. There are many friendship-focused card games available—you can even create your own Guess Who-style guessing game to show off what you know about each other.

Having your own kitchen comes with the option of cooking or baking together on a night in. Heart-shaped pizzas, Valentine’s cupcakes, sugar cookie hearts and other baked goods embrace the cutesy theme while bringing peo-

ple together. If no one in the friend group trusts themselves around a stove, a snack board night will also work. Everyone can bring their own Valentine’s-themed snacks—think pink and red candy or tasty charcuterie—for the group to enjoy.

Once armed with snacks, a rom-com movie marathon is another way to spend the night, enjoying the best romance movies without partaking in it. If no one’s in the mood for witnessing swoon-worthy acts of love, an action movie marathon takes the focus away from romance for an

even more friendship-focused get together. Hearts and red, white and pink decor can transform anything into a Valentine’s celebration.

Whether you have a partner or not, Galentine’s is the perfect way to spend a holiday that’s all about love. Making time for your friends on this occasion is as important as making time for your partner—and this way, single friends have someone to celebrate with too. Group activities, cozy nights in or going out for some fun are all great ways to spend this holiday of love.

Is your phone the third in your relationship?

'Social

media is like a hammer,' says U of G professor specializing in relationships

AVA MAYER

Social media apps like TikTok, Instagram and Snapchat have played a major role in modern communication, opening up a field of connections. But things can get dicey when romantic relationships play out on the internet.

You may have met your partner on a dating app or out in the world, but the relationship often evolves online, where people witness their partner's specific interests and behaviours—from the accounts they follow to the posts they like to the way they interact with other people.

In this way, the very apps that promise connection can wind up creating a toxic cycle of jealousy and insecurity, testing the integrity of romantic relationships.

“Social media is like a hammer," said Shayna Skakoon-Sparling, a professor specializing in relationships and sexual health at the University of Guelph. "We use hammers for building things, but you can also use hammers for taking things apart.”

Dr. Damon Ashworth, an Australian clinical psychologist, has pointed out the change of focus in relationships over the past 50 years. In the past, relationships were seen as transactional—you needed someone "good enough" to settle down with and have children. Nowadays, there is less pressure to find someone who fits the bill. There is more choice and you have the privilege of being picky, as there’s less social pressure to start a family.

Skakoon-Sparling likened modern dating to walking into a supermarket looking for jam and instead of there being five options of different fruit flavours, there are now 20, based not only on flavour but brand, sugar content and so on. Similarly, constant digital access to one another offers couples rapid communication regardless of their physical distance. Yet, like any digital tool, texting takes away tone and body language, the very cues that give words meaning. In their absence, increased virtual access to a loved one does not always lead to

greater understanding and it can become a place for miscommunication between partners.

Skakoon-Sparling likens this to the "second act" of a romantic comedy: the moment when one part of a happy couple misinterprets a message, makes assumptions and storms off without seeking clarification or hearing the other person’s perspective.

In this context, even small online interactions—such as liking an Instagram post or following a particular account—can quickly raise suspicions.

Social media can blur boundaries around trust and intimacy. Seemingly small actions such as liking posts, following certain accounts or DMing, can fall into digital grey areas and in some cases, appear to one partner as infidelity-related behaviour.

Even when communication in a relationship is strong, social media introduces a powerful new challenge: constant comparison.

Nadiya Gaikwad, a graduate

Things to do with your partner in Guelph

Three romantic dates to spend with your Valentine

EMMA LEE

Valentine's Day is right around the corner. If you’re in a relationship, the pressure is on to make romantic plans to celebrate. Here are three local date ideas to help keep yourself and your sweetheart warm this February.

Miijidaa Café + Bistro

Miijidaa is the perfect spot for a classic date night dinner in the heart of downtown. The bistro seating is rustic with exposed brick walls, hardwood floors and wood furnishings, providing a warm and cozy ambience for couples looking to escape the bitter cold.

Miijidaa specializes in vibrant and local cuisine, incorporating a variety of cultural influences in their dishes. Try their Manitoulin Island Trout, featuring Sheshegwaning First Nations

trout, or their Three Sisters Salad. On Wednesdays, Miijidaa offers a Date Night deal, giving couples the opportunity to explore the restaurant’s offerings without waiting until Valentine’s Day. The Date Night special allows couples to enjoy a three course meal (one appetizer, two main dishes and one dessert) for $59.99 and a $10 discount on a bottle of wine.

The Bookshelf’s Cinema

Despite what the name may suggest, The Bookshelf isn’t just a bookstore. Upon entering the store, climb the stairs to the second floor to explore their intimate cinema. This indie cinema provides screenings of hidden gems as well as mainstream blockbusters.

Film schedules are posted

two weeks in advance on their website and movies being screened soon are announced on their Instagram. This spot is great for film lovers to snuggle up, share popcorn and explore unique films beyond the mainstream. It's also the perfect pairing to a romantic dinner at Miijidaa, conveniently located right next door!

Play with Clay & the Clay Bar

Couples wanting to unleash their creative side, no matter their skill level, can head to Play with Clay. Here, customers can choose from a selection of pre-fired ceramics to paint or try their hand at crafting their own clay creation.

Play with Clay also offers guided adult workshops on the second Tuesday of every month

courages unrealistic expectations of both partners and romantic futures. Rather than placing blame on relationship influencers alone, Skakoon-Sparling shifts the focus to how people engage with online content. She said she is "less concerned about the rise of relationship influencers and more concerned about the decrease of critical thinking skills."

student at the University of Guelph researching dating apps and relationships, explains how curated online content can distort perceptions of love.

“When people post that their partner got them flowers or took them out to dinner, it leads others to think their own partner doesn’t love them," she said. "But you have to realize that some things are purely for content, or simply reflect the way that particular relationship works.”

Gaikwad describes comparison culture as one of social media’s most damaging effects.

This cycle of comparison, according to an article in Medical News Today, can erode relationship satisfaction over time, even in otherwise healthy partnerships.

Another thing that complicates intimacy is the rise of relationship influencers—people who appear to provide advice and share details of their own relationships. While this content is aimed at being aspirational or instructive, it often en-

"We have a large group of people who are willing to believe anything they see, rather than doing research into whether it rings true or is appropriate,” she said.

Despite its often negative reputation, social media does not have to be harmful to relationships. When used intentionally and within measure, these apps are tools for connection, inspiration and growth.

From providing date ideas to conversation starters, online content can spark creativity, particularly when it comes from influencers who reflect the complexities of real relationships, a shift Gaikwad views with optimism.

Experts at Medical News Today stress that couples should treat online content as inspiration rather than instruction. Setting clear boundaries—such as phone-free time, limits on posting and regular check-ins—can help ensure these platforms support a relationship rather than distract from it.

Skakoon-Sparling reminds us that when it comes to relationships, "Social media is a tool that can be used for good or for harm."

focused on creating specific pieces. The next workshop, Sgraffito Portrait Swapping, is on Feb. 12th, just in time for Valentine’s Day. It will be perfect for couples to create memories and gifts for one another.

The Clay Bar offers alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and bites which makes this date spot fun and convenient. Play with Clay’s fun atmosphere is sure to ease any first date jitters for new partners, while providing a unique experience for long time couples.

For the love of bees

Illuminating the dark matter of the bee gut microbiota

ARTICLE BY THEODORE HALL & PHOTOS BY ADITYA PARAMESWARAN

We’ve all heard the buzz about bees, but when it comes to gut feelings, it may just be the microbes talking. Honeybees are creatures we depend on far more than we realize, like sustaining the foods, plants and environments that we love and that sustain us in return.

However, behind their delicate wings, affinity for honey and busy personality, there is a hidden network of microbes: specialized gut-dwelling microbiota that contribute to a tiny microbial ecosystem helping bees digest pollen, strengthen immunity and stay healthy.

Understanding this hidden world is the mission of Brendan

Daisley, a Canadian microbiome scientist and immunologist at the University of Guelph, famous for his pioneering work as a founder of the Canadian Bee Gut Project.

Working to “illuminate the dark matter” of the bee gut microbiome, Daisley’s team collaborates with thousands of beekeepers across Canada to establish a baseline of what a healthy honeybee microbiome looks like, distinguishing between “good” and “bad” bacteria that can be used in probiotic treatments to improve honeybee health.

The team works to provide an understanding of how modern pressures like antibiotic exposure, pesticides and climate change contribute

to bee decline.

One such bacterial strain, Apirhabdus apintestini, identified by Daisley’s team, represented more than a new species—it marked the discovery of a new genus, a rare event in microbiology, with hundreds more candidates appearing in the project’s data.

How do hundreds of bees across Canada end up in a microbiome lab? Surprisingly, by mail.

The process starts simple. Volunteer beekeepers are sent conical bee sampling kits and scoop up a few workers for expedited shipping. Once in the lab, the dedicated team begins their search for “microbial fingerprints,” a balance of microbiome detective work. Using DNA sequencing, genetic information is pulled from the bee guts to determine which microbes are present

Love from the inside out

Exploring the human gut microbiome

JAZLYN CHEUNG

When we think about human health, we often focus on organs, cells or genes. However, an equally important part of our biology lives far beyond what we can see. A vast community of microbes inhabits the human gut, influencing digestion and overall health in ways scientists are only beginning to understand. At the University of Guelph, Emma Allen-Vercoe is leading research that brings this hidden world into the lab using an innovative tool known as the Robogut.

The Robogut is a bioreac-

tor-based system designed to mimic the environment of the human colon. Rather than studying gut microbes on petri dishes in isolation, Allen-Vercoe’s lab simulates the conditions microbes experience inside the body, such as temperature, nutrient availability and pH. This allows entire microbial communities to grow and interact in ways that closely resemble real life, helping researchers move beyond simply identifying which microbes are present to understanding what they are actually doing.

One of the lab’s defining strengths is its emphasis on microbial culture. While modern microbiome research often relies heavily on DNA sequencing, Allen-Vercoe argues that sequencing alone cannot fully explain microbial behaviour. A genome can suggest what a microbe might be capable of, but only growing it reveals how it behaves in a living system. By combining high-throughput sequencing with careful culturing, her team works to “illuminate microbial dark matter,” the vast number of gut

and what they are producing, and then mapped back to reference genomes to identify species and everyday biological processes.

Believing in a “you can’t know a bug until you grow a bug” approach, working alongside microbiome engineer Emma Allen-Vercoe, Team Bee researchers then use this genetic information and microbial clues to culture the species and “give birth to their own microbial baby,” where analytical tools like the Robogut—a synthetic bioreactor-based gut model designed to mimic digestion—stimulate the honeybee gut environment, complete with pollen-based feed and temperature cycles.

Today, the project has branched into a national effort, sampling 30,000 bees across eight

microbes that have never been grown, named or studied in detail. This philosophy supports much of the lab’s human health research. By growing previously unculturable gut microbes, researchers can study how specific strains behave within complex microbial communities and their response to environmental changes. The Robogut allows scientists to test how microbial communities respond to changes in diet or antibiotic exposure, without the ethical and logistical barriers of human trials. These controlled experiments help address a long-standing challenge in microbiome research: moving beyond simple associations. Interestingly, work on non-human systems, such as insect gut models, has also sharpened the lab’s thinking about human digestion. Rebuilding gut systems from scratch forces researchers to question assumptions about what microbes need to survive and how closely experimental

provinces and 750 colonies. Team Bee has made notable explorations into probiotic Lactobacillus as a strain to improve honeybee health and in the summer of 2025, demonstrated that federal changes to antibiotic policies and airborne pollutants in Canada significantly contributed to honeybee mortality, damaging colony health. While researchers and enthusiastic beekeepers at the Canadian Bee Gut Project have been as busy as their bee counterparts, their work reflects a deeper love for environmental health and a commitment to a sustainable future where pollinators thrive. What can you do to help our honey-making friends? Plant native flowers, avoid pesticides and give bees the diverse forage their microbiome needs to stay healthy.

models reflect biological reality. In refining these systems, Allen-Vercoe’s team has revisited the composition of microbial “feeds” and growth conditions used in human models, improving their accuracy and relevance.

The implications of this work have a wide range. As researchers seek alternatives to antibiotics and better tools to study the microbiome, tools like the Robogut offer a path towards the future development of microbiome-based approaches. Rather than eliminating bacteria, this may help inform future approaches to health that work with the microbiome rather than against it.

At its core, Allen-Vercoe’s research reminds us that understanding health means understanding ecosystems. By bringing the gut environment into the lab and giving microbes the conditions they need to thrive, her work is helping turn an invisible world into actionable science, one culture at a time.

Arthritis within horses similar to the disease within humans

The complex physiology of equine diseases

AVERY NUTTLEY

The modern horse’s Wonder Woman isn’t just a figure of their dreams, but a professor at U of G. Animal biosciences researcher Wendy Pearson is currently testing several herbs and nutraceuticals—food with medicinal properties—as a way of treating arthritis within horses. With decades of research experience, she has created a natural future of medicine for larger animals, raising awareness for animals’ rights to healthcare in the process.

Pearson grew up moving between several different countries, but horses remained a constant in

her life. She majored in animal science during her undergraduate degree and later pursued a Masters in nutritional toxicology and PhD in biomedical toxicology, all at the University of Guelph.

Pearson’s experience extends far beyond campus, as she is affiliated with both the Equine Science Society and the Canadian Society of Animal Science. She has also worked with arthritic horses at the Milton Equine Hospital to help identify the best natural remedies for arthritis within horses.

Despite her professional

experience and academic work, Pearson struggles with having others understand her research. “Horses are not simply ‘large humans’ or companion animals, but elite athletes with unique physiology, management pressures and welfare risks," she said.

Additionally, there are other barriers to this niche, including limited funding compared to other types of health research, and skepticism around nutraceuticals.

“My focus on natural remedies is not an alternative to conventional medicine, but a complement to it,” Pearson said.

While modern medicine may be helpful for humans, it is risky for horses in the long term, as they often experience chronic, low-grade inflammation caused by excessive stress, gastrointestinal dysfunction and long-term joint wear.

Properly studied natural remedies, on the other hand, can offer a way of supporting physiological resilience while reducing inflammation with less harmful side effects. Other benefits of using botanicals and nutraceuticals is that they interact well with inflammatory pathways, as they are suitable for long term use and have beneficial multi-system effects. These natural remedies

align with preventative treatments rather than reactive treatments.

“The key is evidence-based evaluation, not anecdote,” Pearson said.

Arthritis within horses cannot exactly be “cured,” but it can be managed in a way that will provide relief to the horse. This can be done by supporting joint health through nutrition, management, exercise modification and medical intervention if needed. Slowing disease progression and preserving joint function is a key focus of Pearson’s studies.

Arthritis is a disease that impacts both humans and horses, though it looks different for both. Arthritis within horses is heavily influenced by athletic load, conformation and management, which is why racehorses develop serious arthritis at earlier ages.

Although arthritis shares core pathological features across species, “Horses cannot self-modify activity or seek rest when joints become uncomfortable, and their joints are often subjected to repetitive high-impact forces at speed,” Pearson said.

Arthritis impacts welfare and athletic longevity, as it occurs in high-motion joints which are critical to performance. Pearson urges that early detection and pre-

PHOTOS By Aditya Parameswaran

vention of arthritis is crucial for a horse’s well-being.

The early signs of arthritis within horses are similar to humans in their subtlety, including mild stiffness at the start of exercise. Horses may also experience a reduced willingness to perform certain movements, shortened stride length and an increase in resistance under saddle.

Everything moves slower for a horse when struggling with the comfortability of inflammation, as “some horses show asymmetry in movement, difficulty with transitions or longer warm-up times,” Pearson said.

The most difficult part of providing proper healthcare to animals is not the studies and trials of different medicines, but having others support animal rights to healthcare.

“I wish people understood that animals deserve the same commitment to evidence-based care as humans,” Pearson said. "Humans use horses for entertainment, sport, industry and as companions, so why is it difficult for humans to offer them proper research that improves prevention, treatment and welfare? Advancing animal medicine is ultimately an expression of respect for the animals in our care.”

HOROSCOPES

ARIES LEO SAGITTARIUS

Aries, prune the leaves of your money tree this month. Take a closer look at where your spending is misaligned with your long-term goals— that discernment will give you more to work with when it comes to your greatest financial dreams.

Leo, infuse a little pleasure into your wellbeing habits this month. Let go of rigid routines. Mix yoga into your weightlifting split or test a new plant-based recipe in your meal plan rotation to find what feels good.

TAURUS VIRGO

Intellectual connections will bring you closer to flow state, Taurus. You’re thirsty for knowledge—and maybe someone to finish crossword puzzles with. Slip into deep conversations with a stranger in the library. Who knows where it will lead to?

The month of love is spoiling you, Virgo. Add oxygen to the flame in your romantic relationships by talking big-picture about your goals and desires. Authenticity will illuminate new and existing connections, so make sure to evaluate yourself as a partner, too.

LIBRA

(March 21 - April 19) (July 23 - August 22) (Nov 22 - Dec 21) (April 20 - May 20) (Aug 23 - Sept 22) (Jan 20 - Feb 18) (May 21 - June 20) (Sept 23 - Oct 22) (Dec 22 - Jan 19) (June 21 - July 22) (Oct 23 - Nov 21) (Feb 19 - March 20)

Your resolve will be tested this month, Sagittarius. Midterms and group assignments will force you to lock in, while workplace responsibilities stress the virtue of patience. But standing your ground will soon be rewarded as new doors open, revealing exciting career opportunities.

CAPRICORN

Having a village requires you to be a good villager, Capricorn. This month, your community will call on you—don’t eschew responsibility to ‘protect your peace’. Inconvenience and schedule-juggling are a fair price for fulfilling social connection.

AQUARIUS GEMINI

Gemini, this month is about nurturing your roots. Think of the people who’ve been with you since your seedling days, then excavate your schedule for chances to reconnect. A little reflection and quality time is all you need to feel grounded.

Buckle up, Libra. It’s time to confront those intimate & uncomfortable conversations you normally avoid, particularly with your partner or close friends. Stop dodging vulnerability. Getting real about what’s been bothering you will allow you to reach new depths in your relationships.

Aquarius, use a magnifying glass to investigate the subliminal messages underlying your dreamscapes and gut feelings this month. Spend extra time in quiet meditation or careful contemplation. Effort towards self-discovery brings clarity on the journey ahead.

CANCER SCORPIO PISCES

Cancer, this month encourages you to embrace your childlike energy. Remember how it felt to be little—with the world at your fingertips to romp and explore—then bring that sense of wonder into your everyday life. Being silly will set you free.

Scorpio, a month of discovery lies ahead. Become a disciple of the world’s varied wisdoms. Dive deep into Wikipedia rabbit holes, listen to philosophers and spiritual leaders, or learn to read tarot cards—what you study is up to you.

Pisces, you know who you are and what you want. Challenge lingering mental distortions from last year—the “shoulds,” “woulds,” and “coulds” plaguing you—and take a deep, cleansing breath to release it all. Spend the next month building the boldest version of yourself.

FEBRUARY TO-DO LIST

SUN FEB 1 SUN FEB 8 WED FEB 11 THURS FEB 26

Clothed With Love

• 2:30 - 4:30 p.m.

• Location: Heritage Hall / 83 Essex St, Guelph

• Support individuals and families facing financial hardship through a Pop-Up Freestore initiative that provides gently used and brand-new clothing, toys, and light household items—completely free—to those who need it most. Free admission

WED FEB 4

Tote Painting with ABSA

6 - 8 p.m.

• Location: UC 442

• Join the Animal Biology Student Association to unwind and connect with your creative side with tote painting

• This event is a great way to create new friendships (and tote bags!) or just bring your friends and unwind from school.

Free admission

Bee Mine Valentine's Market

• 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

• Location: Quebec St Mall / 55 Wyndham St N 30+ vendors of locally made art, food, and jewelry. Find something one of a kind and made with love for either your special someone, a family member or a gift for yourself this Valentine's season!

• Free admission

Black-Owned Vendor Market

• 12 - 5 p.m.

• Location: UC Courtyard

• Support local, small Blackowned businesses in the UC courtyard

• Vendors will be selling handmade and artisan items such as clothing, bodycare, food, and more.

Free admission

TUES FEB 10 SAT FEB 14

Cupid’s Cookies and Card Making

2:30 - 4:30 p.m.

Location: Peter Clark Hall / North Wing

• Get into the Valentine’s season with some cookie decorating and card making with the UofG START team

• Perfect way to unwind from mid-semester stress, gather same pals (or fly solo!) to tap into that playful side.

• Free admission and supplies provided

Femmes De La Crème Burlesque

• 7 - 11 p.m.

Location: Royal City Mission / 50 Quebec Street

• An enchanting evening of burlesque with The Femmes Rebelles.

• Make Valentine’s Day into a lavish evening with your spe cial people and be absolutely enamoured with.

Tickets: $45 on Eventbrite

Ward Night Market: Joy in Winter Market

• 6 - 10 p.m.

• Location: 115 York Road

Cozy indoor market celebrating handmade goods and community connection

Multiple local vendors and food booths.

Free admission

PETS OF THE MONTH

Breed: Lab/Golden/ Poodle mix

Photo: Samantha Chen Age: 5

Fun Fact: He is scared of pencils.

Breed: Lab/Golden mix

Photo: Samantha Chen Age: 15 months

Fun Fact: She keeps finding ping pong balls in our backyard. Where are they coming from!?

Photo: Paige Stampatori Age: 11 (approx.)

Fun Fact: She is a rescue from L.A. and loves going through

Breed: Havanese/ Poodle mix

Photo: Gryphyn Karimloo Age: 5

Fun Fact: She has a stuffed bear boyfriend and growls when anyone else gets near it!

Cut out these Valentines and give them to your loved ones!

By Lucca Maggiolo

Across

1–Conceal, as a card

5–Buddy

10–Calf-length skirt

14–Et ____ (and other men)

15–Gal's guy

16–Work without ___

17–Legal claim

18–Meat option

19–Gee whiz!

20–Breeding stallion

22–Lofty nest

23–Big ___, Calif.

24–Sprinted

25–Pals

43–Poker Flat chronicler

45–Scarlet bird

47–Craftsperson

49–Moving vehicle

50–City in GA

51–Swiftness

54–Equipage

60–Equal

61–Complete reversal

62–Switch back?

63–Bring home the bacon

64–Phase

65–Baseball team

66–Psyche's love

67–Yielded

7–Troubles

8–Elation

9–Feedbag morsel

10–Purplish red

11–Are you ___ out?

12–Ricky's portrayer

13–Spillane's "___ Jury"

21–Vandals

22–Battery size

24–Oboe, e.g.

25–Edible plant product

26–Lasso

27–Herbert Hoover, for one

28–Spanish Mister

29–"Band of Gold" singer Payne

30–Software buyers

31–Oscar de la ___

32–Devoured

35–Despot Amin

38–Flat

41–Inns

43–Web address starter

44–Illness

46–Wander

48–Came down

51–Graf ___

52–Fleshy fruit

53–Architect Saarinen

54–Novel ending

55–Campus area

56–Hankering

57–Buffalo's county

58–Zilch

59–Some digits

61–Home of the Trojans

BOB'S DOGS CROSSWORD CONTEST

University

ontarion@uoguelph.ca

519-824-4120

Editorial: x 58250

Advertising: x 58267

Accounts: x 53534

EDITORIAL STAFF

Editor-in-Chief

Rachel Fioret

Associate Editor

Emmerson Jull

News Editor

Abby Counahan

Arts & Culture Editor

Andreea Burlacu

Copy Editor & Fact Checker

Carlota Sousa

Digital Editor

Alyssa Cunningham

PRODUCTION STAFF

Graphic Designer/Art Director

Paige Stampatori

Photo & Graphics Editor

Aditya Parameswaran

OFFICE STAFF

Executive Director

Patrick Sutherland

Accountant

Laurie Arnold

Marketing Coordinator

Lucca Maggiolo

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Chair

Katelynn Huong

Vice Chair

Paula Henry-Duru

29–Any part of the face

33–Tumults

34–Green land

36–On or towards the Mediterranean, for example

37–Motor City gp.

38–Finished, terminated

39–Med. specialty

40–Let's just leave ___ that

42–Empty

68–Driving aids

Down

1–Friends

2–Settled down 3–Stead 4–Inclination

5–To meet the expense of 6–Golda of Israel

For your chance to win two Bobs dog’s and two pops, just complete the crossword, snap a picture, and send it to puzzles@theontarion.com by Feb. 19 at 3 p.m. Winners are announced in each issue and can arrange a pickup of their voucher by emailing the same address.

Last issue’s winning puzzle was submitted by Jayne Haalstra!

CROSSWORD SUDOKU

Treasurer

Denver Bubelich

Secretary OPEN POSITION

DIRECTORS

Mariana Erazo

Oliver Bullingham

Simran Aujla

Maia Galletta

CONTRIBUTORS

MAGGIE ABRADJIAN

VIDA ADAIR MATUS

NED BARR

QUINN BELLINI

MADISON BOUTILIER

JAZLYN CHEUNG

KARYS CROOK

STEPHEN DOIG

PAIGE FIRMAN

ELISE FREDERIKSEN

SIENNA GEISSLER

MANZIL GROVER

THEODORE HALL

SHARON HUANG

SOFIA KUPKA

EMMA LEE

MARTIN LIMA PEREZ

FAUSTINE LIU

ASHLEY MAROZSAN

AVA MAYER

GRIFFIN MCGREGOR

VALERIE MONTERROZA PRIETO

ATHAVI NISHAANTHAN

AVERY NUTTLEY

SOPHIA PHILBERT

ZAC POSGATE-WONG

ABBIE SAKAMOTO

KIERA SCHARF

BEN SEATON

HUDA SHOAIB

EDITA TREACY

AVA VENDER

MADISON WOLF

MADELYN YOUNG

MARISSA ZAHRA