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Ask a Scientist, Science & Technology

Where did these butterflies come from and where are they off to?

by Myriam Driss on

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As summer transitions into fall, an increased flow of insect and bird migrations takes off. The McGill campus, as well as greater Montreal, has experienced a southbound butterfly migration in preparation for the winter. Although these butterflies are commonly misidentified as monarchs, they are actually Vanessa cardui, or Painted Ladies.

Insect expert and Curator of the Lyman Entomological Museum Stephanie Boucher pointed out that this misidentification is common.

“Most people know the monarch [butterfly] very well, [since the] monarch has a lot of publicity and attractivity [surrounding it],” Boucher said. “They are both orange, but they have big differences; Painted Ladies have a mosaic of brown, [while] the monarch [has a] darker central body. The Painted Lady [also has] a much smaller wing width. [However, they] are both migratory species [with similar] unique life patterns.”

Different weather and temperature patterns can affect the life cycles and migration habits of many insects, in both good and bad ways.

Vinko Culjak Mathieu, graduate student in ecology at McGill, noted that “migration, [and other life events] are impacted by various factors [such as] daily temperature, moisture, light, etc.”

Warmer winters lead to early snowmelt, and, subsequently, early flowering. This occurrence is unfavourable because it is out-of-sync with the arrival of the butterflies.

“[When] temperatures [are] high, migration happens earlier, and [the butterflies may] get to [their destination] without food or other available resources,” Mathieu said.

However, this summer, the butterflies had a successful mating season.

“[The butterflies] had [access to] a lot of water and [flowers in the south],” Boucher articulated. “[For that reason], they were better able to reproduce when they came up north.”  This year brought favourable environmental conditions from Quebec to Mexico.

Yet, observing the direct effects of rising temperatures on migration patterns proves challenging. Both Mathieu and Boucher agree that trends, instead of singular effects, require observation.

Boucher explained that changes in climate can affect the migratory patterns of the butterflies.

“[The butterflies would] be affected because they would not be able to [return back] to the same site,” Boucher said. “[Overall], migratory species will be affected in different ways and will eventually adapt [to climate changes] slowly, [however] studies would need to be made, to see how their overwintering sites will be affected.”

Butterflies may be abundant this year, but the appearance of orange Painted Ladies in Montreal isn’t totally unique.

“It [may] seem like an exceptional year, but it has been seen before 2012 and in 1973 there were [also] large migrations,” Boucher said. “The environmental conditions at the wintering site [were] good for them, [and so] they came up north in a larger population than before.”

Another reason why we are seeing so many Painted Ladies on their journey south is the result of strong high-altitude winds.

“[Painted Ladies usually] migrate south 300 to 400 metres above the ground,” Mathieu added, “[but] strong winds force them to stay low. They [are also taking] advantage of the warmer weather to collect more nectar to continue their migration journey.”

Justin Trudeau
Commentary, Opinion

“At least you have Trudeau…”

by Danica Jekic on

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Since arriving at McGill, I have gotten to know many American students. When speaking with them, it is not unusual for our conversation to quickly move into the realm of politics. We talk, laugh, and cry about US President Donald Trump, and then they say, “Well, you guys are lucky. At least you have Trudeau.” As a Canadian, this statement makes me incredibly uncomfortable. The mindset that we should not criticize Prime Minister Justin Trudeau because he is not Trump may do great harm to how Canada functions as a nation.

It is important for a government to have an open dialogue with its people to ensure that it addresses its shortcomings and implements progressive policies and reforms in a timely, efficient manner. It is not enough to simply be more left-leaning than Trump. Trudeau must work harder to pass legislation in the areas of electoral reform, environmental protection, and protection for minorities, before he can be truly praised.

Ever since the contentious 2016 American presidential election, Canadians and Americans have paid much attention to Trump’s daily buffoonery on Twitter and in press conferences. From withdrawing from the Paris Accords, to the Muslim travel ban, to barring trans-gender individuals from serving in the military, there seems to be a new controversy in Washington, D.C. every day. Trump lacks charisma—and quite possibly his sanity. At this point, most politicians are looking better than he is.

Since his election in 2015, Trudeau and the Liberal government have passed only half of the bills that Harper’s government did within the same timeframe. Most news stories about the Canadian prime minister revolve around his publicity stunts. These include photobombing a group of students, kayaking, marching in the Toronto Pride Parade, and—only this past week—meeting students on McTavish while at the McGill Faculty Club. These fun and often exciting events have fueled his public image as a young, intelligent, charismatic leader who actively seeks to relate to his people. He is the opposite of Trump in this sense, and, for many, that is enough. However, his public image will not help him run a country unless he can continue to back it up with concrete action.

 

When Trump makes an offensive comment or signs a controversial bill, it is not enough for Trudeau to calmly wiggle his finger at him on Twitter like a lazy father to his five year-old boy.

One major issue garnering criticism from the NDP and the Green Party is Trudeau’s record on environmental issues. When the United States withdrew from the Paris Agreement in June, Trudeau immediately took to Twitter to berate Trump and reaffirm Canada’s commitment to fight climate change. He carefully expressed his disappointment with Trump’s decision without stirring up conflict. However, while many citizens took to social media and the streets to criticize the American government on its actions, very few people took the opportunity to point out the Liberal party’s approval of several major pipelines, most notably the Kinder Morgan Trans Mountain Pipeline System. According to scientists, the completion of these projects will mean that Canada will not be able to fulfill the requirements of the Paris Accords anyway.

Canadians need to do a better job of addressing the shortcomings of their own government and pressuring it to quickly and effectively implement policies and reforms. We cannot accept Trudeau’s over-reliance on publicity stunts and lack of meaningful policies because ‘at least he’s not Trump.’ Canada voted Trudeau in not only because of his charismatic persona, but because of his appealing campaign promises, such as those related to Indigenous rights, environmental protection, electoral reform, and marijuana legalization. He and his government must be evaluated on those promises, regardless of what politics look like south of the border.

When Trump makes an offensive comment or signs a controversial bill, it is not enough for Trudeau to calmly wiggle his finger at him on Twitter like a lazy father to his five year-old boy. Canadians cannot take pressure off him or excuse his shortcomings, faults, and inaction just because he takes a cute photo shoot with a group of excited students.

 


Danica is in U1 and studies Anatomy and Cell Biology and English Literature at McGill. In her free time she competes in sprint kayaking!

 

@mcgilltribop | [email protected]

 

 

 

 

Sports

McGill rowing team christens seven new boats

by Sam Wendel on

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With their fleet bolstered by brand new boats, the McGill Rowing Team is primed for another exciting season. The rowing team has purchased seven new boats in the past six years. These crafts have been crucial to the team: Team Manager Jeff Hamilton appeared confident that the new acquisitions will inspire the rowers.

“New and better equipment give us a better chance to succeed,” Hamilton said.

The boats were officially christened after practice on Sept. 23. Their names honour both the school and McGill rowing alumni: Red Dawn, Red Wave, The Boys of ’77, Aaron and Sarah Pape, Henry Hering, Ben Storey, and Alison Korn. The christening itself serves both to unite the team and illustrate its strong history.

Red Dawn and Red Wave reference McGill’s iconic red, while The Boys of ’77 is a nod to the rowing team of 1977—the year that the team relocated to the city-made Olympic Rowing Basin where the club still practices today.

The remaining boats are dedicated to McGill rowing legends, including Henry Hering. Hering rowed for McGill in the 1990’s before competing in the world championships and becoming McGill’s Head Coach from 2002-2006. Ben Storey, another McGill alumnus, won the World Championships in 2000, and Alison Korn was a medalist in the 1996 and 2000 Olympic games. Aaron and Sarah Pape, meanwhile, were both on the McGill rowing team in the ‘90s and also went on to have Olympic careers.

Clearly, having boats named after these impressive McGill athletes is quite inspirational for the young rowers inside. This prestige also brings high expectations. Team President Craig McCullogh outlined the team’s objectives.

“Our goal every year is to get as many rowers on the podium,” McCullogh said.

The standard of excellence that drove McGill rowing to great heights in the ‘90s doesn’t appear to have faded. However, this season looks to be particularly challenging. Western University is always a strong club and will likely play a primary role in competitions once again. McGill’s biggest rowing rival is Queen’s University, which always puts forward a strong team.

The Head of the Rideau regatta on Sept. 24 was an important chance to see how the McGill squad would stack up against the competition. The men’s heavyweight eight and the women’s heavyweight four both won their categories while the men's lightweight eight came in second. The two victories were promising signs that point to an intriguing and competitive season ahead.

In addition to medaling this year, the rowing team also hopes to increase its visibility on campus among both students and faculty. In order to try to increase support and viewership, the team hand-delivered boat-christening invitations to various McGill Athletics staff.

While rowing may be considered by many as a fringe sport, the commitment and dedication of the rowers can match or exceed those of every other McGill team or club. It’s always disheartening to see the lack of a fan base for such a squad—especially with their rich history and strong athletes.

In order to encourage the athletes and support the hundreds of hours they put in—both on rowing machines and on the water—students should take a study break and head out to the basin to support the rowing team. It’s an exciting, intense sport, the athletes are tough and invested, and the fresh air certainly beats anything you’ll find in a McGill library.

A previous version of this article stated that the McGill men’s lightweight 8 earned gold at the Head of the Rideau regatta. In fact, the Redmen finished in silver. Additionally, Queen’s University was not present at the meet. The Tribune regrets these errors.

Montreal, News

Refugees flee the US for Canada, stay in Royal Victoria Hospital

by Ryan Canon on

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Fearing the revocation of their protected status, thousands of refugees have fled the United States for Canada. While the number of refugees coming per day has dropped since August, processing times are still high, and Montreal is responding to the influx of asylum seekers with temporary housing across the city—including at the old Royal Victoria Hospital (RVH).

Following the devastating Haitian earthquake in 2010 that killed over 200,000 people, all Haitians were granted protected occupation in the United States, giving them temporary immigration status. On May 22,  U.S. President Donald Trump extended the protection of Haitian refugees, which was set to expire at the beginning of 2017, through January 2018. However, in July 2017, the Trump administration suggested that it might revoke their protected status. In response, many Haitians fled the United States via the Quebec-New York border, seeking asylum in Canada.

According to the Government of Canada, the number of asylum claims jumped from 781 in June to 5,530 in August. Refugees who are waiting to be processed—thus waiting to be given asylum, access to health care, and work permits—were given shelter in buildings around Montreal, including the Olympic Stadium, RVH, and other out-of-service buildings.

The Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA) was unprepared for the seven-times increase in the number of asylum claims. Yet Stéphane Malépart, a representative from the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), confirmed in an email to The McGill Tribune that appropriate resources were allocated in response to the situation and that temporary shelters are still present at the border.

“Tents have been set up at Lacolle since Aug 9 to offer temporary shelter,” Malépart wrote. “CBSA’s planning makes the most effective use of all of the resources available, including the use of overtime and temporary reassignment of resources [….] We work in close collaboration with other government departments and will draw on their resources as required.” 

 The Centre intégré universitaire de santé et de services sociaux de l’Est-de-l’Île-de-Montréal (CIUSSS) is responsible for the temporary accommodation of asylum seekers on the island of Montreal. Francine Dupuis, the associate CEO of the CIUSSS West-Central Montreal, expects to shut down sites where the refugees have been processed.

“We have decided that on Friday we are going to decrease the number of sites,” Dupuis said. “Right now we have a lot of different sites [in use] with a lot of space available, and we want to bring it down to maybe two or three.”

Political dimensions make the situation more complicated. In 2002, Canada and the United States signed the Safe Third Country Agreement, which declared the United States a safe country and allowed the CBSA to reject refugees from the US. As such, many of the Haitian asylum seekers fear rejection, and the Canadian government is restricted in the type and number of healthcare and work permits they can provide.

“It’s really an unintended consequence of a bad policy […] and if we fixed [the Safe Third Country Agreement], this would stop happening,” McGill Social Work Associate Professor Jill Hanley said. “As long as these people are kept in limbo and not given the rights of regular refugee claimants, it makes them vulnerable to exploitation.”

Although the number of asylum seekers in Canada has increased within the past year, these numbers are not historic for Canada, and Hanley confirmed that Montreal has adequate space to handle the influx.

“The numbers that have been coming in are actually not that exceptional in Canadian history,” Hanley said. “The numbers prior to 2001 were higher than what we have today [….] There used to be more shelters in Montreal for refugees […] but it’s not like the community centers don’t have room for them now. Maybe it is time for Canada to get back up to its old levels of refugee claims, and make it possible for people to get here and claim refugee status.”

 

A previous version of this article referred to Royal Victoria Hospital site as belonging to McGill. In fact, the building is the property of the Province of Quebec. The Tribune regrets this error.

News, SSMU

SSMU Board of Directors discusses constitutionality of current membership at public session

by Domenic Casciato on

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The Students’ Society of McGill University (SSMU) Board of Directors (BoD) held a public session on Sept. 24 to discuss the constitutionality of the composition of the current membership of the body, among other agenda items. SSMU Vice-President (VP) Finance and Director Arisha Khan introduced a motion to add the discussion to the agenda, and explained her stance that the BoD’s current 12 director membership is not in accordance with the SSMU constitution. 

“As of right now, we have a composition of three officers and nine members-at-large, which is not in line with the constitution,” Khan said. “Any potential decisions that have been made by the Council with this composition […] could also be up for contention.”

Section 6.2 and 6.4 of the SSMU Constitution stipulate that the BoD has up to 12 voting members: Four Directors from the student-elected SSMU executive, four Directors from the student-elected Legislative Council, and four members-at-large who are appointed through the BoD Nominating Committee. The eight non-executive Directors are then approved by student referendum or at the SSMU General Assembly. The President, VP Finance, and VP Operations and Sustainability automatically sit on the Board, while the fourth executive is nominated by SSMU Legislative Council. 

Jonathan Glustein, a member-at-large of the BoD, pointed out that the Board could not maintain its stipulated composition.

“It is impossible, within the parameters of reality, for the Board to be at 12 members all the time without appointing members-at-large,” Glustein said. “I think it's pretty evident that not only was the Board acting within the best interests of the Society by filling it to 12 members, but in fact it would have been unconstitutional for the Board not to put 12 members in the Society.”

Section 7.4 of the SSMU constitution defines quorum for the BoD to be seven Directors, a simple majority of the voting members. Khan stated that the constitution does not explicitly mandate the BoD to fill all 12 of its seats at all times, and raised concerns about the accountability of a Board with many appointed members.

“I think the discussion item here is, while the constitution may be murky, is it ethically murky,” Khan said. “In order to meet quorum, [it would only require] seven Directors such that Legislative Council could appoint members come the first Council meeting, specifically the […] executive because that is quite important [….] Right now we are a Board of nine [members-at-large.] So these are members that have not been elected by the membership [to the BoD] and are not accountable to the membership in the same way that elected Board members or officers should be.”

Given that all 12 seats of the BoD are currently filled, one of the members-at-large must resign in order for the constitutionally-mandated fourth executive to be nominated. On Sept. 14, the Legislative Council met, but a motion to elect a member of the SSMU executive to the Board was not presented.

Glustein reiterated that keeping a Board of only seven members would be of detriment to the SSMU membership.

“I think, considering the fact that we had five resignations in a month's time [in Winter 2017…] and the fact that if the Board falls below seven members we cease to function as a Society, […] it would be extremely imprudent […] to keep that number at seven and […] hope that someone doesn’t have any extenuating circumstances,” Glustein said. “One resignation would render the entire Society ineffective.”

SSMU General Manager Ryan Hughes, who was also present at the meeting, recently consulted the Society’s legal team to review the constitutionality of the BoD’s current composition. The legal opinion he received stated that, while falling in somewhat of a constitutional grey area, the membership is in accordance with the SSMU constitution, but that the BoD, along with Legislative Council, will be in violation if they fail to expeditiously nominate and appoint a fourth executive member at the bodies’ next meetings.

“I will concur with the rest of the Board that [the situation] is murky,” Hughes said. “This is what happens when you have a constitution that is as complex as ours [….] It is very difficult to navigate sometimes, and sometimes you may make an oversight [….] When it gets discovered, it is your obligation and duty to repair it, to address it. This is what this Board needs to do, this is what Legislative Council needs to do [….] It's known, we’re going to repair it, and get back to business. That’s it.”

SSMU VP Internal and Director Maya Koparkar said that the most pressing matter for SSMU going forward is re-establishing trust with its membership and that she intends to begin the fourth executive nomination process at Council’s next meeting on Sept. 28.

“I’m actually bringing a motion to Legislative Council next week to nominate a fourth [executive] from SSMU to the Board of Directors,” Koparkar said. “I don’t know what happened [this summer], would it not have been possible to just have 11 members of the Board of Directors?”

Commentary, Opinion

Talk is cheap: Canada must act in response to DACA debate

by Caitlyn Atkinson on

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On Sept. 5, in one of his cruellest acts yet, US President Donald Trump ended the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. DACA was an immigration policy enacted by the Obama administration that allowed individuals who moved to America illegally as minors to remain in the country, given a certain set of conditions that ensure they make productive contributions to society. If Congress doesn’t find a way to legalize DACA and develop a plan in which DACA participants—affectionately known as “Dreamers”—can apply for US citizenship, upwards of 800,000 individuals face possible deportation to countries they barely know.

While Trump’s actions have led to an emotional outcry both within the US and internationally, at the same time, there exists a rising unwillingness to accept immigrants among Canadians. Under the presumption that an influx of Dreamers will attempt to migrate to Canada, some believe that the Canadian government should have the absolute power to admit only those with high academic or economic abilities. However, Canada’s approach to accepting thousands of Dreamers must reflect the diversity that Canada claims to embrace, and go beyond allowing only those the government subjectively deems as ‘the best.’ As Trump tries to rip these young people from all that they have ever known, Canada—and particularly its universities—has the humanitarian duty to provide a safe place and a legal channel for Dreamers to become citizens.

Though Canadians who oppose the northward immigration of Dreamers argue that it will overwhelm the country’s immigration system, it is incredibly unlikely that all 800,000 individuals in the DACA program will relocate to Canada. In a quote in a Vice article, Ontario Independent Senator Ratna Omidvar suggested that Canada should look to welcome 10,000 to 30,000 Dreamers. Canada, she argues, must capitalize on the opportunity to welcome a new wave of skilled workers, who will help to boost the economy.

Canadian post-secondary institutions should support the aspirations made possible by the DACA program in the first place, by accepting and helping to fund Dreamers’ transitions into Canadian society.

McGill students can surely empathize with the plights of Dreamers, especially those who are in the process of completing university degrees. Dreamers have spent the majority of their lives in the United States, and many have come to hope for the same type of social and financial success that McGill students aspire to. Now, they face the possibility of deportation, compromising their futures. Canadian post-secondary institutions should support the aspirations made possible by the DACA program in the first place, by accepting and helping to fund Dreamers’ transitions into Canadian society.

Huron University College in London, Ont. has already set an important example, offering $60,000 in scholarships to students affected by the overturn of the DACA program. At McGill, compensating for an increased number of transfer applicants when planning classes would allow for more space in programs to accommodate Dreamers. To further ease the transition, McGill students can start groups that lobby the administration to take action and recognize the unique circumstances of Dreamers and work to welcome them into the McGill community. By removing barriers to Dreamers’ enrollment in Canadian universities, Canadians can help to reverse the damage being done by the Trump Administration, and help to give these young adults a third chance at a future. Those who have already dedicated their time and energy into their schooling have a right to finish their education.

Morally, Canadians need to recognize the inherent abuse of power in the argument that the Canadian government should be highly selective in choosing which Dreamers have sufficient test scores or employability, and thus the right to immigrate to Canada. All should have the opportunity to apply and be fairly considered, without the constant paranoia of fitting narrow acceptance criteria. While, opposers of immigration harshly critique prioritizing citizens of other countries over born Canadians, its supporters argue that it is necessary for growth. What critics must recognize is the need for empathy, and to recognize the injustice that will occur if Canada does not provide social and economic opportunities.

Given that none of these individuals have criminal records, nor histories of violence, they deserve the opportunity to continue on their quest to achieve their goals, just like those fortunate enough to be born in Canada. Canada and its universities have the capacity to welcome Dreamers, and as a country that prides itself on compassion and diversity, we have a responsibility to protect the dream that Donald Trump is so desperately trying to crush.

Commentary, Opinion

Airbnb short-term cities are impacting long-term rentals

by Thea Borck on

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Most students I know have at some point benefited from the services provided by Airbnb, whether for travel, a night out, or to make some extra cash on the side. However, in recent years, the rapid increase of Airbnb listings has become cause for concern for the housing market, as it hinders the ability of local residents to find affordable long-term rental locations. Left unresolved, this problem will cause the already severe housing crisis in major Canadian cities to get further out of hand. The main debate is whether it is the housing shortage or the proceedings of a free market that should be protected. Ensuring citizens can put roofs over their heads should be the priority, and provincial government regulation is crucial and needed immediately to this end.

This summer, I found myself without a place to live in the town of Tofino, B.C., largely due to impact of Airbnb. Tofino is a small fishing town which has become a world attraction for surfers. As a result, the tourism industry has taken over the town and with it has come the convenience of Airbnb. I went to Tofino wanting to work and experience Western Canada; however, it was impossible for me to find a place to stay. Long-term renting was impossible in Tofino—locals blamed it on a housing shortage—yet there were over 250 listings available on Airbnb. The truth is that it was more lucrative for locals to post their empty rooms on Airbnb than it was to have seasonal workers rent the space for the whole summer—homes that would otherwise be available as long-term rentals were being listed on the home-sharing site, aggravating the lack of supply. As a result, the seasonal workers, many of whom came from Eastern Canada, resorted to living in tents or garden sheds.

Megan Dolski reported in The Globe and Mail that the town is unsure of how to handle this growing issue. According to Dolski, the town is focusing on adding new housing but has yet to discuss the ramifications of excessive Airbnb listings. This is a band-aid solution to a problem that demands to be properly confronted.

The situation in Tofino is not an isolated incident. As a recent McGill Urban Politics and Governance research group report shows, Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver are having similar problems, even without the significant influx of seasonal workers looking for housing each summer. These three cities alone totaled 81,000 active Airbnb listings this year and garnered $430 million in revenue last year, with every listing receiving roughly $5,000 per year.Of those active listings, there are around 13,700 properties across all three cities, serving as “de facto hotels” instead of as residential homes, meaning that no one uses that property as a residence. The number of Airbnb listings and the number of available rental spaces is almost equal, at close to two per cent. This heavily impacts the housing market, due to these “de facto” or entire-house listings taking away possible rental space from long-term residents. These “de facto” hotels are using Airbnb as a loophole to forgo the hassle of tourism regulations. The number of listings on Airbnb and number of new construction listings in some parts of Vancouver and Toronto are at a ratio of two to one. According to the report, the rapid growth of Airbnb listings has now outpaced new construction, thus impacting the net available housing stock.

The report makes it clear that the current regulations—or lack thereof—are putting the housing market in danger. So far, Quebec has been the only province to introduce legislation to control the number of listings by taxing revenue and making licenses mandatory for “regular users.” Unfortunately, Quebec forgot to define the difference between what a “regular user” and “occasional user” of Airbnb is. Fewer than one per cent of Montreal’s 6,356 full-time listings have acquired the license and are paying the 3.5 per cent revenue tax, making the law pretty useless.

In comparison, Berlin handled its Airbnb dilemma by completely banning most entire-home rentals. This approach is more concerned with the well-being of its citizens than the survival and flourishing of Airbnb. Canadian provinces must adjust their priorities to mirror  those of Berlin’s policy, and protect their own residents from homelessness or from being driven out of city centers. Airbnb was created to provide an alternative to hotels, and therefore it would not be out of the scope of reason to heavily regulate the entire-home rentals now serving as “de facto” hotels.  

Housing shortage must take precedent over the free market, as shelter is a necessity for life. A focus on the well-being of the state, and not just on the well-being of the economy, should be the Canadian government's priority. That said, it isn’t Airbnb’s responsibility to react to this dilemma, for their main function is to provide a platform. It is up to the municipal and provincial governments to regulate it, in ways such as licensing limits and restriction on entire-home listings.

Thea is a U2 McGill student majoring in Political Science and minoring in Philosophy and German Studies.

 

@mcgilltribop | [email protected]

 

 
Recipes, Student Life

Brace yourselves, breakfast is coming

by Kelly Panichnantakul on

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It has been scientifically proven that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Not only does it replenish the body with essential nutrients after a good night’s sleep, it also gives you the energy needed to get through your morning classes. Yet, many students resort to skipping breakfast when pressed for time in the morning. The McGill Tribune has compiled four nutritious mug-recipes that can be made in a microwave in less than five minutes, to ensure that you’re getting your nutrients on even the most rushed of mornings.

Peanut Butter Mug Cake

(kitchentreaty.com)

 

Ingredients:

  • 1 egg (for a vegan version, substitute the egg for 2 tablespoons of flour and 2 tablespoons unsweetened almond milk)

  • 3 tablespoons peanut butter or any other nut butter

  • 1-2 tablespoon sugar/sugar substitute  

Instructions:

  1. Combine all ingredients in a microwave-safe mug and mix with a fork until thoroughly blended. If you’re hoping the mug cake will taste like a Reese’s Cup, add chocolate chips to the batter before microwaving.

  2. Microwave for one to two minutes.

  3. Top with jam, bananas, or more peanut butter to your liking.

Omelet in a Mug

(mrbreakfast.com)

 

Ingredients:

  • 2 eggs

  • 1 tablespoon milk

  • Pinch of salt

  • Pinch of pepper

Possible add-ins: shredded cheese, finely chopped bell pepper, finely chopped chives or green onions, salsa, sour cream, basil, spinach, meat (finely diced ham, crumbled bacon, etc.)

Instructions:

1.     Coat the inner edges of a microwave-safe mug with cooking spray or olive oil.

2.     Add eggs, milk, salt, and pepper to the mug. Beat the mixture with a fork until it’s light and fluffy.

3.     Stir in any extra add-ins and microwave for two minutes. Let cool for one minute before eating.

Recipe adapted from Simply Recipes.

Espresso Mug Cake

(shemazing.net)

 

Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon instant coffee

  • 2 tablespoons sunflower or vegetable oil

  • 2 tablespoons milk

  • 1 egg

  • 3 tablespoons flour

  • 2 tablespoons sugar

Instructions:

1.     Whisk together the oil, milk, egg, and coffee in a microwave-safe mug.

2.     When fully combined, add in the flour and sugar, then mix again.

3.     Microwave for two minutes and allow the cake to cool for one minute before consuming.

Recipe adapted from Skint Dad.

1-Minute Protein Brownie

(tosimplyinspire.com)

 

Ingredients:

  • 1 scoop protein powder

  • 1 tablespoon flour

  • 1 tablespoon sugar/sugar substitute

  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

  • 1-2 tablespoon cocoa powder

  • 1 egg (can sub for ¼ cup egg whites or flax egg)

  • ¼ cup dairy-free milk

  • Dairy-free chocolate chips (optional)

  • Nut butter (optional)

Instructions:

1.     In a microwave-safe bowl or mug, whisk together the egg and milk.

2.     Add protein powder, flour, sugar, baking powder, and cocoa powder to the mix. Stir well with a fork.

3.     Microwave for one minute and let cool for another before eating.

Recipe adapted from The Big Man’s World

McGill, News

McGill and Montreal community honour life of Gretta Chambers, first female university chancellor

by Natalia Savkovic on

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Hundreds of people gathered at the Church of Saint-Léon-de-Westmount on Sept. 16 to honour the life and accomplishments of Gretta Chambers, former McGill Chancellor and beloved journalist, political commentator, and community builder.  Chambers passed away on Sept. 9 at St. Mary’s Hospital in Montreal due to a serious heart condition.

Born on Jan. 15, 1927 to an anglophone father and francophone mother, Chambers spent much of her life and career bridging the gap between the two major linguistic and cultural communities in Quebec.

“She was the whole package in terms of her deep understanding of national and international environment as well as politics and policies,” Sylvia Martin-Laforge, director general of the Quebec Community Group News (QCGN), said. “She was an educator in the most holistic way. She’d help us to see and help us understand.”

Chambers’ career was largely centered around communicating challenging political topics to broad audiences. She started contributing a weekly column on Quebec politics to the Montreal Gazette in 1977. Chambers used her talent for writing to explain complex political issues to her readers. By the early 2000s, she had written more than 800 articles for the Gazette.

From 1977 to 1980, Chambers also hosted a television program called The Editors on Canada’s First Canada’s Finest (CFCF) 12, now CTV, on which she led political discussions. As one of few women in journalism at the time, Chambers was a trailblazer.

“I would say that one of her legacies was really helping establish women as highly credible analysts and laying the groundwork for other female journalists,” Lucinda Chodan, editor of the Montreal Gazette, said.

In 1993, she was honoured as an Officer of the National Order of Quebec for her work in connecting the anglophone and francophone communities in Quebec. The following year, her talent and service to Canada and humanity earned her a spot as a Member of the Order of Canada, and was promoted to Companion in 2000. In 2012, the Quebec Community Groups Network (QCGN) awarded Chambers with the Goldbloom Award for her distinguished community service.

Beyond the vital role she played in the greater Montreal community, Chambers was well-known at McGill in particular. She graduated from McGill with a B.A. in Political Science in 1947—at only 20 years old—and was an influential figure on campus up until her death. She became a Governor of McGill in 1978—emeritus since 1988—and was its first female Chancellor.

Chambers was involved with McGill institutions including the Montreal Consortium of Human Rights and Advocacy Training (MCHRAT), which was created in a collaboration between the McGill School of Social Work and Faculty of Law. She was crucial to the work of the McGill Middle East Program in Civil Society and Peace-Building (MMEP), now the International Community Action Network (ICAN). These groups have created 11 human rights-based community centres in Palestine, Jordan, and Israel, which provide services such as education, housing, and legal aid to people who are affected by war, poverty, or instability.

“She was instrumental in representing not just what our ideas are and our values, but instrumental as a person,” James Torczyner, Founder of the MCHRAT and the MMEP, said. “At one point, we brokered a joint emergency medical program between Jordan and Israel, and Gretta’s credibility, and just her ability, was always present and helped make all those things happen.”

Chambers was a valued member of the Montreal community, admired by many for her varied capabilities.

“She was a visionary,” Martin-LaForge said. “She saw beyond what most of us see from day to day. When I would call her sometimes, I always felt like she filled my teapot. She gave me more things to think about. She gave me the meat for understanding. She would give me her understanding on a situation on which I could build a better understanding for myself.”

 

Student Life

How to build, work, and navigate your networks

by Emma Carr on

More in Student Life:

Many students share a common goal of securing a job right out of university—but this task can prove more challenging than many anticipate. There is a crucial underlying factor at play in deciding one’s career fate: Their networks. 

New graduates are often cautioned with the age-old saying “it’s who you know, not what you know,” that determines their job prospects. Though this sounds rather unfair, recent studies indicate that it may not be so far from the truth. A 2016 LinkedIn survey showed that 85 per cent of all jobs are filled via networking. Additionally, National Public Radio estimates that over 70 per cent of job openings are not advertised to the public, thereby limiting the applicant pool to internal hires and those with close connections. This reality makes it even more difficult for the poorly-connected to get their foot in the door at hiring organizations. 

Fortunately, universities offer the perfect setting to meet experienced professionals and practice networking before graduation. The McGill Tribune spoke with Darlene Hnatchuk, director of the Career Planning Service (CaPS) over email to learn more about how students can master the art of networking before graduation, and hopefully, land themselves a job with the help of sound social skills. 

The McGill Tribune (MT): Why is it important to begin networking as an undergraduate?

Darlene Hnatchuk (DH): For some people, networking can seem intimidating or […] only worthwhile if you are already a working professional or are seeking a job. As a student, there are several reasons to network, including to explore various career paths, meet people who are working in your fields of interest, and meet interesting new people who may introduce you to new ideas and opportunities. Know that in general, most people are willing to share some time to speak and help a student [who is looking for career advice].  

MT: How can McGill students begin to develop a network?

DH: Students can start by getting to know their peers, joining clubs and interest groups. [Students should] check out [the CaPS website] to learn about various on-campus opportunities. Other opportunities to network include speaking with your professors, [taking up] part-time jobs or other work [or] internship opportunities, and [engaging in] your personal [network, like family friends].  

Additionally, look to organized networking opportunities, such as your department or faculty’s meet-and-greet events, speed networking events, career fairs, [or] company information sessions [….] You can even cold-contact someone you admire [or would like to eventually work with].

MT: In what ways can students make a good impression on potential connections?

DH: It’s important to be genuinely interested in meeting new people, and in particular [to be] polite. First impressions do count. Make sure that you are respectful and appreciative of people’s time [….] If you ask for 10 minutes don’t keep asking questions past the 15-minute mark. Thank people for their time, and give them an update if they made efforts to introduce you to someone new. [Also] be prepared to ask specific questions that demonstrate your curiosity and interest in them and their roles.  Be prepared to speak about yourself, your interests and what you might like to do.  

MT: How can students turn connections into a potential employment opportunities?

DH: Unfortunately, it is not always a linear path from networking to a job. But by making time to get to know others, being interested and curious in others, [and being both] professional and respectful in your approach, you will consistently make a good impression and you will more [than] likely be remembered. Be open to new ideas and opportunities and follow up with people. Use the information you have gathered through your networking and apply that knowledge in your job search.  

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