News
Amneet Mann / News Editor Henry Tran / Assistant News Editor
January 8, 2018 news@the-peak.ca
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LAYING NEW GROUNDWORK
AQ renewal project to fix leaky roofs on campus The project is expected to take three years to complete and cost $38 million Amneet Mann News Editor A three-year Academic Quadrangle (AQ) plaza renewal project at SFU Burnaby will be fixing the leaky roofs and decreasing the amount of concrete on the campus.
The project is expected to take three years to complete, and has a current estimated cost of $38 million. “Believe it or not, it’s a roofing project which is kind of driving the whole thing,” said SFU’s senior project manager George Venini in an interview with The Peak. SFU Burnaby’s outdoor plazas function as roofs for the buildings with classrooms below. Those roofs are now 50 years old, dating back to when the university first opened in 1965. Over the span 50 years, the materials that make up the floor of the plaza have been worn down due to repeated freezing and thawing, leading to the campus’s leaky roof problem. “We’ve been repairing [the roofs] in spots,” said Venini, “but basically now it’s time where we have to put whole new roofs on top of those spaces. Rather than rip up what’s there and put down exactly what’s there again, we’re looking at ways to enhance it.” Seeing the light According to Venini, one of
design team’s aims is to pay homage to the concepts SFU’s original architect, Arthur Erickson, came up with for the campus. “One of the notions that this architect developed, a guiding principle of the design you see on the paving pattern of this campus, [. . .] is enlightenment.” Moving from the lower transportation centre, up the stairs through the Convocation Hall, and up the stairs again to the AQ, the paving material of the Burnaby campus gets progressively lighter in colour. The design team for the renewal project aims to continue this paving pattern: beginning with dark granite tiles at the transportation center, the paving colouration will become progressively lighter as students traverse up the stairs of the campus, culminating into almost white granite on the AQ plaza. Increased approachability– physically and socially Venini also spoke about how the team is planning to take this renewal project as an opportunity to make some permanent changes to the structure of plazas. A prime example is the aluminum ramps on either side of the stage in Convocation Mall and
The 50-year-old damaged terracotta tiles on the AQ plazas are the reason for the leaky roofs below. Adam Madojemu/The Peak the wooden black ramp that extends further east off the stage. While these ramps were originally intended to be temporary, they will become permanent fixtures of the redesigned plaza for greater accessibility: “We’re going to build a whole new stage with permanent ramps that look more like it was supposed to be built that way [. . .] to make the stage more accessible to everyone.” Many currently empty areas around campus will be installed with new furniture to create new spaces for students to socialize. The area below the Rotunda, Convocation Mall, and the gravel plots currently in front of Trottier Observatory will all be installed with new planting material,
better lighting, and benches, which Venini hopes will make these locations on campus more socially successful. Safety first The bridges on either side of Convocation Hall will see higher railings after they are renewed. A decorative metal cut-out will be added above the current railings to make them higher. These cutouts will also be an opportunity celebrate the financial and academic contributions made to the university by displaying names of significant people in the university’s history. The lighting on external spaces, such as underneath and on the walkways, will also be improved.
One of the last areas to be redone will be the roof of the Rotunda. “Some people quite love the roof of the transportation centre – it’s got wonderful views up there,” said Venini. But he also noted that there are currently no guardrails in place, which can be a safety hazard when people admiring the view move right up to the edge of the area. The project will completely redo the roof of the Rotunda, adding glass guardrails to enhance safety while maintaining the view, as well as adding benches and other structures to make the roof more desirable and inviting for students to lounge on. Read more at the-peak.ca.
“The most indebted generation in history” Presently, BC students can apply for loans which need to be paid back with interest. McCutchen argues that high tuition cost together with the interest on loans “places low and middle-income individuals at a disadvantage, as those who do not attend university cite the upfront cost of tuition as of the major reasons why they don't pursue post-secondary education.” Other sources of financial aid for students include federal grants through the Canada Student Loans program, but according to the research done by the organizers of the Grant Now campaign, these loans only cover up to 30% of the cost of education. While the campaign recognized the bursaries and scholarships offered by postsecondary institutions, they maintained that providing sufficient financial assistance for students to obtain post-secondary education “shouldn’t fall on the shoulders of universities who are already working with a tight budget.” The campaign organizers found that BC students are
graduating with large amounts of debt that limit their ability to engage in the economy for years after they graduate. Other students may simply drop out as their debt levels rise, creating what the organizers calls “the most indebted generation in history.” The KSA believes that offering needs-based non-repayable grants to lower- and middle-income students rather than loans should see increases in student graduation, help recent graduates who are in debt, and make post-secondary education more accessible to all. As all other provinces provide student grants, McCutchen and the KSA sees the reinstatement of grants for BC students as a way to “level [the] playing field with the rest of the country” and to give everyone fair access to education. Having more graduates could also help the province create jobs, grow its economy, and allow more citizens to climb the socioeconomic leader. Students respond McCutchen reported positive results from the Grants Now campaign, obtaining over 750
signatures from Kwantlen Polytechnic University students. “While campaigning, countless students . . . would often mention the impact that high tuition rates has on their lives,” said David Piraquive, chair of the external affairs committee of the KSA. McCutchen added, “the high cost of living in BC is making post-secondary education increasingly unattainable.” “[Students] were eager to sign the petition and many were not aware that BC is the only province without a needs-based grants program.” In terms of implementation, the Grants Now campaign called for grants to be accessible to both undergraduates and graduates students, domestic or international, and part-time or full-time students with special provisions for students with disabilities and dependents. Grants should also not be dependent on finishing the program. “Grants are not a partisan issue, every other province has a system of needs-based grants, and these systems have been in place under various parties,” said McCutchen. “This is just a matter of the province properly funding education.”
MONEY MATTERS
Kwantlen Student Association petitions BC government to provide needs-based student grants BC is the only province in Canada that does not provide needs-based student grants Nathaniel Tok Peak Associate The Kwantlen University Student Association (KSA), as part of the Alliance of BC Students (ABCS), has recently completed a student-led campaign calling for action from the BC government to provide more financial support for low- and middle-income post-secondary students in the form of needs-based grants. The Grants Now campaign was KSA’s response to BC being the only province in Canada whose government does not
provide needs-based student grants. The campaign raised awareness about the fact that every other province in Canada gives low- and middle-income students (coming from households with an annual income of $50,000 or less) non-repayable financial assistance. According to Caitlin McCutchen, vicepresident of external affairs in the KSA, the grants [in BC] were removed in 2004 in favour of “a tax-credit system.”
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Amneet Mann / News Editor Henry Tran / Assistant News Editor
News
news@the-peak.ca
RESEARCH ROUNDUP
Relationships, tech, and the future of our oceans Research on infidelity among males, game-changing lab technology, and toxic plastic debris in our oceans Victoria Lopatka Staff Writer If your boyfriend has this type of face, you should be worried about him cheating The title may sound like it’s directly out of a tabloid or teen magazine, but these findings are backed by hard evidence, straight from the mouths (and faces) of undergraduate students. A study, led by SFU psychology researcher Brian Bird, found a connection between men’s facial width-to-height ratio (FWHR), higher sex drives, and greater chances of infidelity. Over the course of two studies, more than 400 Canadian
undergraduate students were sampled: researchers measured the width and length of their faces, asked the students to fill out questionnaires relating to their sex drives, their attitudes towards casual sex, and how likely they were to cheat on a romantic partner. The studies concluded that FWHR has a positive relation to sex drive, in both men and women, and that high FWHR is related to interests in casual sex, socio-sexuality, and infidelity, in men only. Bird feels these findings can be attributed to the influence of testosterone, which affects both behaviour and facial structure: "Past research shows that
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the facial width-to-height ratio predicts dominant types of behaviour, such as aggression. [. . .] However, we also know that testosterone is not only relevant for dominant behaviours, but also for attitudes and orientations toward sexual activity.”
SFU-developed microscope is a game-changer for research and development Pharmaceutical and adhesive companies might soon be singing the praises of SFU researchers Mike Kirkness and Nancy Forde, who have created a wireless, portable, and cost-efficient microscope that can spin contents at intense speeds. Called the mini-radio centrifuge force microscope (MR. CFM), this invention is particularly helpful for researchers working with products that require an understanding of how materials molecularly bind together. The MR.CFM stands apart from other more expensive, less portable products, costing a mere $500 to produce, and it is just slightly larger than an adult hand in size. It is also wireless and compatible with most commercial centrifuge buckets,
making it an ideal product for the modern researcher and developer. Kirkness and Forde tested out their invention in a study on collagen, a protein that makes up a fourth of the human body, including vital connective tissues. It was discovered that, contrary to widespread theories about collagen under pressure, collagen is destabilized when large amounts of force or stress are put on it. This research may be vital in treating those suffering from collagen degradation.
Toxic plastic debris pose threat to Vancouver aquatic wildlife What did you do last summer? Bertrand Munier, an SFU environmental engineering student on exchange from Lyon, France, spent his summer picking up plastic debris from beaches in Vancouver, BC. He picked up a total of 150 items, including plastic children’s toys, plastic bags, personal hygiene items, plastic food wrappers, cutlery, and containers, as well as car and bicycle parts. Upon further inspection, 14 different types of plastic were identified, many
items containing polyvinyl chloride, a widely-used plastic polymer, as well as copper, lead, zinc chloride, and cadmium. The activity contributed to Munier’s research, under the supervision of SFU biological sciences professor Leah Bendell, into how both the macro (over five mm) and micro (less than five mm) plastics can leech trace metals, zinc, copper, cadmium, and lead into the food webs in our oceans. There are many ways plastic litter can threaten oceanic ecosystems by compromising food sources, Bendell explains, including direct release of heavy metals from plastic itself. Smaller fish also ingest these plastics and metals, and the harmful effects are propagated up the food chain when these smaller species are then eaten by larger fish. Direct toxicity of plastic particles can lead to cell damage, inflammation, and other health problems for aquatic life. “The World Economic Forum estimates that at current rates of plastic production, by 2050, the total mass of plastics in our oceans will outweigh the biomass of fish,” Bendell says.
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Opinions
Victoria Lopatka Staff Writer
Zach Siddiqui / Opinions Editor
February 26, 2018 opinions@the-peak.ca
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Opinions
Gabrielle McLaren Features Editor
Zach Siddiqui / Opinions Editor
opinions@the-peak.ca
Arts
Grace Rose Peak Associate
Alex Bloom / Arts Editor
February 26, 2018 arts@the-peak.ca
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SFU BOOKSTORE SCAVENGER HUNT JOIN ME AS I DISCOVER THE WEIRDEST, CUTEST, MOST EXPENSIVE, AND BEST ITEMS AT THE BOOKSTORE . . .
If you’re looking for exotic protein snacks, uterus-centric fridge magnets, or incredibly expensive leather book bags, look no further than your local SFU Bookstore. Shout-out to bookstore staff member Saadiyah, who helped me track down some of these things!
WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED BY VICTORIA LOPATKA, STAFF WRITER
LAYOUT BY GABRIEL YEUNG
Most aesthetic thing for your dorm room
Most stylish clothing item
No aesthetic Tumblr room is complete without at least one string of these babies. Nice ambient lighting is key to having a well put together, non-depressing room, whether or not you live on campus. They also make perfect background lighting for Netflix-watching or even romantic Netflix and chill sessions. (Honourable mention: Handcrafted East 2nd Soap in Peppermint Twist for $13.95)
If you’re looking for a no-fuss, yet professional outfit for class, hanging out with friends, waiting in line for coffee, really any activity, look no further than these stylish pyjama pants. These say, “I’m educated, but I also like to sleep. A lot.” I couldn’t resist buying myself a pair.
Coolest snack
Best drink
Kikkerland string of 20 silver LED lights for $9.95 each
Coast Cricket Protein Bars for $3.95 each I’ve heard about these before but had no idea where to find them, until now. They're a new addition to the Bookstore menu: proteinrich, local, sustainable, high fibre, dairy and gluten free, and apparently, very tasty! They come in two flavours: peanut butter and dark chocolate raisin.
Most random thing Coprolite Fossilized Poop for $9.95
If you asked me, “Hey Victoria, what’s one thing you’re not expecting to find at the Bookstore today?” I wouldn’t have even thought to say “really old turtle poop” because that’s how random this is. I can’t even knock people who buy this though, since I have memories of being a kid and being fascinated by an owl-barf-pellet version of this, ripping it open with my grubby little fingers to find plastic mouse bones. University-age me just wonders, “Why, though?” (Honourable mention: Jabba the Hutt Vinyl Bobble-Head for $19.95)
SFU lounge/pyjama pants for $39.95
GoodDrink Mango Tea with Hibiscus and Vanilla for $2.75 a bottle THIS STUFF. This stuff is so good, I would drink it ever y day if I could. My favourite is the Mango Tea, but all of them are really great and relatively affordable at only $2.75 a bottle. They’re refreshing and sweet, so make sure you don’t pass them by in the cooler at the front of the store.
Best magnet to put on your mini fridge
“Cat Hair on Everything is the New Black” magnet for $4.95 I’m currently staring at my bare mini fridge, thinking about how I should’ve bought one of these magnets. If you have a cat, you just get this one, and you understand the struggle. I can’t even pet someone else’s cat or dog without fur coating my black leggings. The second one, though, I need an explanation for. A picture of a cartoon uterus karate-chopping a block of wood, amid the letters “Kung-Fu Uterus.” What does this mean? Is this supposed to resemble my uterus at that time of month? Who came up with this? (Honourable mention: “Kung-Fu Uterus” magnet for $4.95)
Most expensive item Vintage Tribe Leather small school bag for $320.00
When I asked about the most expensive nontextbook item, staff members immediately pointed me to this book bag, kept behind the cashier counter. The tag describes it as a tough, yet soft, waterproof, durable, leather school bag from a family-operated tanner y in Italy. Maybe I don’t know good bags (my pleather $12 backpack with a twice-fixed strap says I don’t), but I don’t understand this insane price tag. Who is this for???
Best greeting card for any occasion
“Aye Papi!” Drake greeting card for $6.95 OK, this, THIS is fantastic. I can’t think of an occasion I wouldn’t want to send or receive this card. If I’m in the hospital, send me this card. If it’s my birthday, send me this card. On graduation day, send me this card. When I retire from a lifelong profession, SEND ME THIS CARD.
Most unnecessarily SFU-centric item
Best thing in the clearance bin
I have a hate-love relationship with this item. On one hand, I think it’s awfully cocky for someone at the Bookstore to be like, “You know what we need? Expensive ribbons and bows with SFU’s logo and colours.” On the other hand, though, I might go back and buy it, give it to my parents and ask them to wrap my graduation gift in it two years from now. I appreciate SFU’s extraness in this case.
I want to preface this by saying I’m a sucker for a good deal. I’m also a sucker for buying things that make me look like I have a better taste in music than I actually do, and that make my room more aesthetic. So if you’re like me, go clearance bin diving for this treasure.
Matching SFU ribbon and bow for $4.95
Most expensive pen SFU Signo Uniball Pen for $5.50
I may waste my money on SFU ribbons and Drake greeting cards, but you won’t catch me wasting my money on a $5.50 pen, especially when there’s a bin of simple blue ones for 25 cents each right beside it.
Heaviest book in the non-fiction section
Humans of New York Stories by Brandon Stanton for $34.50
This book is both physically and emotionally heavy, hence why I chose it. (Jokes aside, though, it’s actually a really lovely book and would make a great gift for the aspiring photographer or journalist in your life.)
The Art of Rock & Roll 2018 calendar for $29.95 (minus 50% discount)
Best gift for your parents Woodlands Morph Mug for $13.95
Originally, I thought the tacky red ““Best. Mom. Ever.” SFU T-shirt was the best gift for your parents (because parents love anything you buy them, right?), but then I saw this magical mug. The concept is that it’s dark and pretty plain until you pour hot liquid into it, then it morphs into a colourful forest scene. I had one of these as a kid (it had a scene from Harry Potter on it), and 10/10 would recommend this mug as an entertaining gift. (Honourable mention: “Best. Mom. Ever.” SFU T-shirt for $18.50)
Prettiest/coolest notebook Purple and gold orbits notebook for $19.95
Maybe it’s just me, but I find cute and aesthetic notebooks just make me enjoy class more (or maybe I use my favourite notebooks for my favourite classes, hm . . .) Either way, if you’re not a fan of the generic light blue, lined, spiral bound notebooks, you may want to venture into the non-fiction book section for these beauties. If only they were spiral bound, they would maybe come close to being worth $20. (Honourable mention: Peter Pauper Press cannabis journal for $10.99)
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Arts
CELEBRATE
REMEMBER
Alex Bloom / Arts Editor
arts@the-peak.ca
FIGHT BACK
Confirmed!!! Puppy therapy will be attending. Admission will be accepted on the day of but at an increased price so register today
Sports
Andrew Ringer / Sports Editor
February 26, 2018 sports@the-peak.ca
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Sports
Dylan Webb Peak Associate
Andrew Ringer / Sports Editor
sports@the-peak.ca
Humour
Janis McMath / Humour Editor
February 26, 2018 humour@the-peak.ca
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Humour
Janis McMath / Humour Editor
humour@the-peak.ca
Humour
February 26, 2018
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New questions okcupid should ask
16 Diversions
Yuri Zhou / Business Manager
business@the-peak.ca
NOTICES
If you are interested in advertising with The Peak of the-peak.ca, there is still space available in the upcoming issues for the fall. We publish every Monday while classes are in session and discounts are available for students groups and non-profits.