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How Retail Was Built: The Innovations Behind Black Friday

Areej C
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How Retail Was Built: The Innovations Behind Black Friday

Introduction:

This weekend when you head out for your Black Friday shopping, or decide to do some online shopping at home on your computer, it’s important to realize the inventions that have facilitated your ability to shop comfortably. Over the last centuries, retail has changed dramatically, evolving from  simple small local markets to massive global industries. Many of the inventions that transformed everyday shopping also helped shape what we now recognize as Black Friday

Five Most Important Inventions 

The Price Tag:

Created in 1861, the price tag was the first of its kind. Derived from ethical and moral shopping dilemmas, the price tag ensured equality in product prices. Prior to the price tag, all prices were determined on the individuals attire and the general wealth displayed.  This called for an influx in bargaining power for both sides, and caused some people to get exploited by buying cheaper products for more. John Wanamaker was a Christian man, with strong moral obligations. He was intent on making the world a better place with his modest intentions, this was by implementing his idea of price tags and opening a store. This store faced harsh criticism from other surrounding merchants, but customers were impressed and kept returning. John Wanamaker’s store was a hit. 

The Coupon:

An invention from Coca-Cola started a revolution of marketing tactics. The coupon creates interest and need for products you never knew you needed. Selling items at a cheaper price entices the public and allows them to try products. In 1887 Coca-Cola’s Asa Candler devised the idea and execution of the coupon by creating a voucher of 5 cents for one Coca-Cola. “It’s estimated that one out of every nine Americans had received a free Coke — meaning that 8.5 million free drinks had been distributed to the public”. The idea was a success, and people flocked towards the product for a a good sale. To this day, many people use coupons, increasing many companies revenue and company awareness. Overall this invention opened hundreds of new marketing tactics that allow people to shop at certain locations, shops, and businesses. 

The Computer:

The first mechanical computer was created in 1822. The history of the computer is quite long and starts even before 1822, but the first mechanical computer has been traced back to 1822. Charles Babbage started the idea of an machine performing complex work for an individual. In his case it was approximating polynomials and other mathematematic equations. Later in 1837, he started to propose the idea of his Analytical Engine. But in the end it was never made, until other scientists brought it to life in 1936. After all of this the most recognizable computer was made in 1945.  The Computer is an invention that manipulates and collects information. Computers store information and can search for them on the web making it have endless possibilities. All of this information is displayed on your computer screen ready to use and making it one of the most used inventions in the world. This invention was useful to retail in the long run as it stored the companies products on a single device, improved store security by creating protective systems, stored business documents, tracked customer purchases and even self started self checkout. 

The Barcode:

Invented by Norman Joseph Woodland and Bernard Silver in 1952, the barcode is a technology that identifies and differentiates products from each other and creates unique identities for each one. Barcodes coded products into specific design of bars that made it easier to scan, ring up products and track inventory. Behind each of these codes, all the information about the product was stored and kept, and it could be accessed by a scan by a device. This has impacted modern retail as it has sped up the process of shopping and convenience for the employees and shoppers. What was once a tedious process has turned into a process that accommodates revenue of 114 billion dollars in Canada alone.

The QR Code:

Originating from the video game ‘GO’, in 1994 Masahiro Hara created the idea of the QR code. QR Code stands for ‘Quick Response Code’. The similar black and white tile layout resembles the QR code and its unique layout that is attached to a specific link. Hara realized that a grid layout could hold much more information and could be scanned from any angle or direction, making the QR Code a huge accessible innovation. The QR Code has impacted retail by being a way to collect customer reviews and gain feedback by scanning codes. Many times these codes lead to incentives as well, many times if you fill out the surveys you receive for example $5 off your next purchase. These surveys collect customer data and ask shoppers to specify brand likes and dislikes or other supply questions which is also beneficial to businesses. 

Conclusion:

These five inventions shaped the modern retail world and made today’s shopping possible!  As you head out for Black Friday deals this weekend, or if you already have, remind yourself that every scan, every sale, and every price tag is part of a long history of innovation that built the modern shopping experience!

Sources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5

 

Your Obese Cat Might Die – Why?

Xinlei L
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Your Obese Cat Might Die – Why?

IMAGINE THIS 

12AM

This is you. Scrolling on your phone, procrastinating studying for the two upcoming tests, three essays and final project. Your small feline friend strolls up to you and nudges your hand, meowing for food. You half-heartedly dump a load of kibble in Meatball’s bowl, continuing your comfortable spiral of dopamine punches into pinches.

 

1:43AM

Eventually, the reels become too mundane and you reluctantly pick up your pencil to discipline yourself into academic submission.

 

7:00AM

The following Saturday morning is one of lethargy and “I wanna go back to sleep..” Meatball waddles up to you once again with a toy in his mouth, his beady eyes glimmering at you. You dismiss his polite offer and suddenly remember you haven’t flown a kite in a while. 

 

9:41AM (-2h 41min)

Two hours later, you’re a bit hungry. Maybe bake some cookies? That’d be fun. 

 

9:50AM

Oh, we’re out of eggs. Guess it’s time for the supermarket. 

 

10:11AM (-1hr 7min)

It’s raining right now though. It’d be cool if you tried making a makeshift umbrella!

 

THE CONSEQUENCES OF YOUR ACTIONS.

Before your dismissive eyes, time has quietly slipped past you, never to return again. The day skips away as you find yourself at the same 12AM before the same glowing white box with the same small meow box crawling up to you for food, a quiet weight of schoolwork piling up behind you. 

 

If you continue this pattern, not only will your grades shrink up but your small Meatball will enlarge. Bigger and bigger will he become, as the irregular feeding times, careless portions, and the lack of playtime creeps up on him. 

 

You’ll find yourself before the vet one day, her face sorrowful with empathy as she tells you your 50lb cat has liver disease. Treatment would be above $6000 total. The flies in your wallet start laughing at you as you look upon the difficult decision you’re forced to make. 

 

TAKEAWAY

See how all of this could’ve been avoided if you had simply managed your time better? Time is an extremely valuable tool that is equal to all. 24 hours in a day, each precious second distributed equally among you and your peers. The main reason why in twenty years many of you end up in vastly different situations is because of how you manage your time right now. 

 

So get off your phone. Go do that schoolwork. Feed your cat good.

 

Sources

1 , 2

I Researched Organ Regrowth So You Don’t Have To, And Now I’m Questioning Everything

Jia J
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I Researched Organ Regrowth So You Don’t Have To, And Now I’m Questioning Everything

Can Humans Really Regrow Organs? Here’s What I Learned

The Idea Sounds Like Science Fiction – Until It Doesn’t

The idea of regrowing human organs seemed like something out of a sci-fi film; however, my view changed drastically once I started researching this topic more extensively. I had imagined laboratory tanks filled with illuminated hearts, along with scientists waving holographic images while utilizing high-tech medical technologies to restore patients almost instantaneously.

This was not a concept I associated with actual human development, it felt too ostentatious and excessively extravagant for anything related to real-world medicine. When I finally began my research into how to regenerate organs, I was so surprised to learn that parts of this are currently happening and not just theory or futuristic ideas. Instead of placing complete arm and leg structures into tanks, it appears we are learning how to use more subtle approaches to achieve similar results. 

Right now, regenerative medicine does not involve creating brand-new body parts for individuals; rather, we are re-teaching the cells in their bodies to heal themselves at rates far exceeding how they currently do so.

Regenerative medicine teaches the human body how to better heal itself.

Wild, right?

The Moment It Hit Me: This Is Already Happening

I was first taken aback by the idea of bladder regeneration. Doctors take a person’s own cells, grow them into a structure that looks like a bladder, and implant them in the person’s body. Because it came from the person’s body, it would be accepted.

Real people are walking around with lab-grown organs — today.

I also learned about:

  • Repairing the Heart by using stem cells to rebuild muscle tissue damaged by heart attacks.
  • Creating Mini Kidneys (Organ Models) that are about the size of real kidneys, in that they filter waste.
  • 3-D Printing Layers of Skin for use with Burn Victims, like making a pattern that you would use to build with wood or metal (the skin used in this process is layered).
  • Regenerating the Liver is a current research project being carried out by scientists who have found a way to regenerate liver tissue that has died, through various methods of enhancing the ability of the liver to regenerate itself.

After learning all of this, I kept thinking to myself:

While I constantly have to wait for my phone to come back on when I type too quickly, somewhere there is a laboratory where scientists are engineering real tissues that keep people alive.

Regenerative medicine feels like a hybrid between a builder, a detective, and a coach, guiding cells back to what they were always meant to do. Not replacing the body, but collaborating with it.

How This Future Might Actually Look

It’s not just about replacing failing organs. This field could reshape basic healthcare:

  • Diabetes treatment by regrowing insulin-producing beta cells
  • Spinal cord recovery by rebuilding broken nerve pathways
  • Joint regeneration using stem-cell cartilage patches
  • Corneal repair restoring sight with lab-grown eye tissue

It almost feels like unlocking “repair modes” humans used to have but lost through evolution.

A therapy made from your own cells that repairs you from the inside out? Surreal, complicated, and kind of a mess – but everyone can agree that it does provide hope.

But… It’s Not Magic (And Definitely Not Perfect)

Regeneration is not a magic technique; it will have its problems. Stem cells may not always function as expected.

– Tissue development may not occur as expected (i.e., not having the proper structure).

– The body’s immune system may sometimes attack your body’s own cells.

– Gene editing may introduce erroneous information.

Plus, there are huge questions:

Who gets access?

What does “playing God” even mean here?

What if only the wealthy get regenerative treatments?

This tech isn’t replacing doctors or surgeons.

It’s more like giving them new tools, tools that feel impossible right now but will eventually become normal.

Think of it like going from stitching a wound… to rebuilding the original tissue as if nothing happened.

TL;DR

The future of regenerating human organs is not science fiction; it is already being developed. Regenerative medicine helps the body repair itself by using stem cells, lab-grown tissues, and gene-edited cells. It is providing solutions for doctors in the field of medicine, as opposed to replacing them, and providing a more effective toolkit to help them repair and restore patients’ body parts. The field is slowly building momentum and will continue to do so into 2023, with advancements in the use of regenerative medicine continuing to change the concept of how we heal.

From Scraps to Snacks: The Surprising History of Leftovers

Xinlei L
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From Scraps to Snacks: The Surprising History of Leftovers

A Quick Debrief 

Asking for a take out box has become a socially normalized inquiry to ask your waiter. Especially in the United States, leftovers provide a simple yet effective method that counteracts the fact that not everyone’s stomach can handle their relatively large portion sizes. Leftovers are convenient and save time; they are as normal as a thing can get. However, there was a time when leftovers were considered sacred. Precious. As valuable as diamonds. 

Just a Couple Decades Ago… 

During World War I, epidemics of food shortages occurred as the US government struggled with feeding their soldiers and citizens adequately. Fridges didn’t exist so there was no easy method to preserve food for long periods of time. To prevent this, regulations such as “Wheatless Wednesdays or Meatless Mondays” were reinforced. Families were advised to do with what they have and not to overconsume. Following is a US Food Administration poster from 1930 titled “Leftovers Shouldn’t Be Left Over.” 

A U.S. Food Administration poster during World War I. (Credit: The Library of Congress)

 

Certain people were proud of how much of a law-abiding they were because of their control on their food-preservation skills, so much so that some even celebrated killing their pets in order to minimize an extra hungry mouth. (Although at that time, pets only ate table scraps.)  

Fridge Shenanigans

With the invention of the icebox and fridge, leftovers lost their once high status. Feminists began to challenge the concept that traditional women should belong in the house, anchored to chores and cooking. The new and sudden convenience brought women more career opportunities and time to pursue other paths. The opposing conservatives argued that women are now taking disgraceful shortcuts and not committing to their “main job.” 

Throughout the 1960s and early 1970s, the public’s opinion on leftovers was ambiguous and uncertain. Some thought it was shameful to eat leftovers, or worse, serve them to guests. Others were hesitant around the idea of asking for takeout, at the time referred to as a “doggy bag.” 

In the Present Moment 

Nowadays, leftovers are not only a part of everyday life but even established upon tradition. Thanksgiving is known for the etiquette of sending guests home with leftovers, and sometimes the conflict of fighting for them. Leftovers is not only a thing that saves you time, but has also become a social phenomenon that connects people together. 

Sources

1, 2, 3, 4

The Rise of “Lacy” and the Representation of Female Jealousy

Spencer
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1
The Rise of “Lacy” and the Representation of Female Jealousy

Have you ever felt so overwhelmingly envious of somebody else?

However, this envy is not limited to one aspect of that person’s life. This jealousy is all-consuming, a perfect blend of admiration and hatred. 

If so, you may have had a “Lacy” in your life. A perfect person who seems to float by, who you are never able to compete with. This is what makes them so “enviable.” 

This term describing somebody like this in your life was popularized and perfectly portrayed by the hit song “Lacy,” written by Olivia Rodrigo in 2023. 

This song was originally written by Olivia for a school assignment before becoming a key part of her Guts album and one of her personal favorites on the record. 

The song features a haunting melody, almost portraying this mythic “Lacy” as a ghost. Constantly living rent-free in the narrator’s head. 

The line “skin like puff pastry” can have a few interpretations. However, I think the line is a really interesting comparison right out of the gate. By comparing “Lacy” to food, it portrays this infatuation and obsession with her as a form of sustenance. The narrator lets this jealousy fuel her and her self-loathing.  

This is incredibly relatable for the vast majority of young adults, specifically women. We often use this envy and unhealthy relationship to justify our poor self-esteem and treatment of ourselves.

Rodrigo also makes the juxtaposition of religious elements in the next line, “aren’t you the sweetest thing on this side of hell?” While this line is obviously humorous, it also serves as a representation of the narrator’s view of “Lacy.” 

“Lacy” is both somebody who can be admired and viewed as seemingly sweet, but also somebody whom you, in many ways, detest. The one-sided competition drives resentment between “Lacy” and the narrator. The mention of Hell portrays this infatuation with Lacy as “sinful” or the narrator being taunted by this “demon” of hers. 

“Lacy” throughout the piece is portrayed in the same way we would look at mythical creatures. The soft but eerie melody of the piece reinforces this view of Lacy as inhuman. The line, “I try to rationalize people are people, but it’s like you’re made of angel dust,” encapsulates this message. Lacy is no longer human; she’s too “perfect,” and this idyll that we will seemingly never reach. Additionally, this line further drives the wedge between the narrator and “Lacy.”

While this song is absolutely beautiful, what exactly does it mean in the real world? 

This song comments on relationships that have been around for years. This type of female friendship, infatuation, and envy are not new concepts. Most women, if asked, will have a story about their “Lacy.” 

The reason this story resonated with so many people is that it shone a light on something that was already very present to begin with. The song explained this feeling that so many people experience.

Speaking as somebody who has had many different “Lacy’s” in her life, I feel like I can speak to these emotions specifically. When you have a “Lacy,” they can do no wrong in your eyes; everything they touch seemingly turns to gold. However, this view is really only held when you’re observing from afar. 

Once I made friends with a previous “Lacy.” She was pretty, smart, and extremely well-rounded, making comparison inevitable. However, when we became friends, something shifted. She retained all of these traits, but she became more real; she shared her shortcomings and humanized herself. 

She, on one occasion, actually shared information about her “Lacy.” I was at first taken aback. How could a person so perfect envy somebody else?

As I’ve grown, I’ve realized just how our own negative self-perception weighs on us. We are unable to appreciate our successes and instead needlessly idealize other people. Everyone is both somebody’s “Lacy” and has a “Lacy.” 

Learning to appreciate ourselves, as well as not demonizing or romanticizing others, enables us to move forward. Accepting our imperfections and recognizing just how far we’ve come. 

 

Tips on Staying Motivated During The Holiday Season

Suha Arvapalli
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Tips on Staying Motivated During The Holiday Season

As the snow falls unrelentingly in Calgary- and with Christmas right around the corner- it’s easy to want to lie in your bed with a fluffy blanket and your favourite show all day. Staying motivated around the holiday season can be difficult, with thoughts of the upcoming break and lists of every holiday activity you want to do running through your mind.

With a month left till New Year’s, it’s time to pick up that New Year’s resolution that’s been collecting dust since January and accomplish your goals! Whether it’s school work, extracurriculars, or something else, here are some tips to stay motivated during the holiday season.

Keep Your Goals Achievable and Realistic 

If you’re feeling like you’re in a slump, there’s nothing more motivating than using the small goals –> big rewards system. The key is to keep things achievable and realistic, start with something small that you know you can commit to, and build from there. Whether it’s finishing one chapter of a textbook or just organizing your desk, starting with a small goal and accomplishing it will give you the energy you need to keep going.

These tiny wins add up, and checking them off your list will feel incredibly satisfying. If you have a daunting project that you know will take you forever to finish, break it up into little steps and go from there. Keep these small goals in mind and give yourself a reward after accomplishing them, such as grabbing a chocolate. Rewarding yourself isn’t a sign of being less disciplined, but it’s a way to make your journey to accomplishing your goals more sustainable.

Visualize Your Future Self

When you’re feeling unproductive, think about the relief you’ll feel after handing in that assignment, or how proud of yourself you’ll be after getting a 100 on the next test. Picturing the positive results you’ll get after all that hard work will motivate you to get started. Imagine how confident you’ll feel after hitting the gym this week, or the sense of accomplishment you’ll get once you fulfill your goals.

Picture your future self lounging on the couch binging Netflix with not a care in the world during winter break, rather than scrambling to turn in all those missing assignments. I mentioned this in my post on overcoming performance anxiety as well, but imagining a scenario in which you’ve accomplished all your goals is a major motivator. Write down how you would feel, and how you would reward yourself. Remind yourself of why you started this goal in the first place, and how good it’ll feel to start the New Year with a sense of accomplishment.

Prioritize Self-Care Without Guilt 

I don’t know about everyone else, but December is always chaos for me. Between holiday events, final exams, study sessions, and extracurriculars, it’s almost impossible to squeeze in a moment of rest. It’s easy to fall into unhealthy habits. I know through experience that getting 5 hours of sleep is unsustainable and will only lead to poor results- not better ones. Losing motivation is a common sign of burnout, and if you find yourself overwhelmed with your schedule, it gets really easy to lose sight of why your goals matter.

To prevent this from happening, learn how to prioritize your tasks without guilt, including self-care. Give yourself time to do what you enjoy, whether it’s making gingerbread cookies or watching a Christmas movie. Treat self-care with equal importance as you treat your study sessions. I understand how hard it can be to squeeze in time for yourself in a busy schedule, but even something like listening to your favourite album and not thinking about schoolwork during your transit ride home will leave you feeling less stressed and more ready to take on the day.

If you think self-care is a waste of time, you’ll find yourself proven wrong, as giving yourself a small break to breathe will let you accomplish your goals faster without losing motivation.

Create a Cozy Environment to Work In

Let’s be honest, the holiday season practically begs you to hibernate in those blankets. Instead of going against them, work with the holiday vibes! Make yourself a hot chocolate, light a candle that smells like pine trees, and start working. You’ll be surprised at how much easier it is to stay motivated when your space feels inviting and less intimidating.

Try to avoid blankets though. I find that falling asleep is the easiest when doing chemistry practice problems- blankets would only make it worse.

Try Using the 5-Minute Rule 

If you realize that nothing seems to be motivating you, try using the 5-minute rule. Set a timer for 5 minutes and force yourself to get to work until the timer runs out. If you still feel unproductive after those 5 minutes, take a break and come back, setting another timer for 10 minutes this time.

Like all your guidance counselors and teachers always say, getting started is truly the hardest part. The goal with the 5-minute rule is to get rid of all the effort and overthinking that goes into sitting down and starting your task. Get all your materials out and organize them in front of you before setting the timer; seeing your work set out for you can help as well.

Don’t Fall For the “I’ll Do It Later” Trap 

It’s easy to fall into the trap of telling yourself you’ll study after the holidays. Suddenly, January arrives, and you realize you only have a couple of days left until your final exams. Not just one exam, but 4.

Don’t do it. Study now for the sake of your future self!

The general rule of thumb is that if a task takes less than 10 minutes, do it immediately. If it’ll take longer, break it up into smaller tasks that take less time. Instead of aiming for a 5-hour piano practice session over the weekend, aim for consistency and start with 10 minutes per day.

TL;DR

The holidays can make it easy to lose sight of your goals and your motivation. Here are some ways you can stay on track during the Christmas season:

  1. Keep your goals small and reward yourself for every win.
  2. Visualize your future self accomplishing all your goals, and imagine the relief you’ll feel after.
  3. Prioritize your self-care, so you don’t lose motivation to keep going!
  4. Create a welcoming space for yourself to work in.
  5. Don’t fall for the “I’ll do it after the holidays” trap. If it takes less than 10 minutes, do it now.

Are Grades Still Meaningful?

Daniella
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Are Grades Still Meaningful?

Report cards are out. You flip through the letters, A, B, C, maybe all A’s. They’re supposed to measure progress, potential, and worth. But somewhere along the way, the question creeps in: do these grades still mean what we think they mean?

Grades were designed to summarize performance and communicate results to colleges, employers, and parents. As the Cambridge Assessment Network notes, they “help communicate outcomes in a clear and structured way.” According to the Academic Senate for California Community Colleges, grades can correlate with persistence and success in higher education. In short, grades can mean something. But the meaning is shifting.

The deeper you look, the shakier grades become as a reflection of real learning.

  • Grade inflation: GPAs have risen steadily from 2010 to 2022, even though standardized test scores haven’t (SmartBrief). At Harvard, over 60% of grades are now A’s, up from 25% two decades ago (New York Post).
  • Inconsistency: A ‘B’ in one class may mean something totally different in another. Harvard’s Graduate School of Education calls this ‘grade fog’, the lack of clarity about what grades actually measure.
  • Inequity: A study of 200,000 STEM enrollments across six U.S. universities found students from more advantaged backgrounds consistently earning higher grades. (SpringerOpen)
  • Grades VS Mastery: When students fixate on marks, they tend to simply memorize, perform, then forget, rather than explore and retain. (Queen’s University Faculty of Education)

 

So, do they still mean anything?

Yes, but context matters. Grades can still open doors to colleges and scholarships, but inflated or inconsistent grading weakens their signal. A 4.0 might not prove deep understanding; it might just reflect an easier rubric or strategic studying. For students, that means grades are still part of the story, but don’t reflect the whole story.

Grades once promised objectivity, a simple number to represent complex learning. But as inflation, inconsistency, and inequity blur their meaning, it’s becoming clear that letters or numbers alone cannot tell the whole story of a student.

In the end, grades might still be used to open doors, but it’s the real curiosity, persistence, and creativity behind them that can decide what happens once someone walks through the door.

 

Sources:

From Communication to Mirrors: How Electromagnetic Waves Shaped Our World

Sabarish M
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From Communication to Mirrors: How Electromagnetic Waves Shaped Our World

In most objects we use, from cell phones to mirrors that we take for granted, electromagnetic waves play a major role. Even the visible light we see is a type of electromagnetic wave. The discovery of electromagnetic waves and our ability to harness them to send data across large distances is a notable advancement in humanity. In this blog post, we will be taking a look at how electromagnetic waves are produced, the electromagnetic wave spectrum, the history of electromagnetic waves, and some notable applications of electromagnetic waves.

How Electromagnetic Waves are Produced

Electromagnetic waves are produced by an acceleration of charged particles. The key is that there needs to be some changing and oscillating electric or magnetic field around a specific area. This change in the electric field, for example, induces a changing magnetic field perpendicular to the electric field, which induces a changing electric field perpendicular to the magnetic field and so on. These waves propagate in a direction that is perpendicular to both the electric and magnetic fields.

The Electromagnetic Spectrum

The electromagnetic spectrum is the full range of all types of electromagnetic waves that is organised by wavelength and frequency. The types of electromagnetic waves that are a part of the spectrum are: radio waves, microwaves, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, X-rays, and gamma rays. All of these waves travel at the speed of light and are a form of electromagnetic waves.

History

Years ago, many philosophers and scientists believed that light appeared instantaneously rather than as a wave propagating across space. The theory of electromagnetic waves was first predicted and developed by the scientist James Maxwell. Years later, these predictions were validated by Heinrich Hertz, who was the first person to produce and detect an electromagnetic wave. In this experiment, Hertz used a spark-gap transmitter to accelerate charged particles to produce a radio wave and was able to detect it using a receiver with an antenna.

These developments later paved the way for scientists to determine the speed of light. The first accurate measurement of the speed of light was made by Albert Michelson. He used a rotating octagon-shaped mirror, with 8 sides, to shine a beam of light and reflect it to another mirror located a large distance away, and reflect it back to the next side of the mirror. Michelson rapidly spun the mirror to determine the time it took for the light beam to travel to the separate mirror and reflect back. He was able to find the time by determining the frequency of rotation of the mirror, finding the period and dividing it by the number of mirror sides. With some more calculations, he determined the speed of light to be 299,940 kilometres per second, which is extremely close to the modern accepted value of 299,792.458 kilometres per second.

Applications of Electromagnetic Waves

Currently, electromagnetic waves are used in a variety of different applications, ranging from telecommunications to optics. Radio waves are used to transmit signals over long distances, while microwaves are used for Wi-fi and satellite communication. The visible light we see is also a type of electromagnetic wave produced by the transition of electrons in atoms. The concept of electromagnetic waves is also the reason behind the function of mirrors and lenses. Another example of electromagnetic waves used in modern technology is the science behind fibre optics. This system uses the total internal reflection of light rays to send data long distances.

Sources: 1, 2

Where Will I Call Home Next?

Nova Astrov
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Where Will I Call Home Next?

I think that one of the scariest choices a teenager faces is deciding what university they plan on making their future home.

Given that it’s application season right now, I’m sure a lot of us feel the same way: conflicted, scared, confused. So really, this all boils down to one question: How do I make the right choice?

To figure out what post-secondary institution fits you best, you need to understand yourself first. What kind of degree are you drawn to? How much does prestige matter to you? What kind of environment brings out the best version of you?
Because sometimes, it isn’t the university itself that ends up mattering most. It’s the life surrounding it. Ask yourself: Do I want to live in a quiet or loud city? Do I prefer smaller classes or huge lecture halls? Do I want to stay close to home … or is my home waiting for me somewhere new?

And beyond just those logistics, there’s the pressure. Expectations from family, friends, and even your school can shape your decisions more than you realize. There are grades to think about, reputation, rankings, all of it swirling around until it feels like you’re one wrong choice away from ruining your life.
But the truth is, there’s no such thing as a “perfect” university. It might feel like there’s one obvious answer right now, but people grow, and who you are today isn’t necessarily who you’ll be next year. Going to a smaller campus has never made you lesser. People may outgrow prestige, but they will never leave behind knowledge. Be smart with your finances, because in the long run? Your life is so much more than just a bunch of accomplishments put together.

Your path doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. And whatever choice you make, it doesn’t define your worth or your future success. It’s just your next step.

What does matter is how honest you’re willing to be with yourself. A lot of us spend more time scrolling through Reddit threads and TikTok campus tours than actually imagining what we want our lives to look like for the next four years. It’s easy to get caught up in the aesthetics, the merch, the picture-perfect campuses. But eventually the excitement fades, and what remains is your everyday reality: the cafeteria food, the professors you see three times a week, the way campus feels when you’re walking alone at night or dragging yourself to an 8 a.m. class.

And remember: grades aren’t everything, even if it feels like they are right now. The right university should offer more than a name on a degree or diploma. It should help you grow, support you, and give you an environment that feels healthy for who you’re becoming.

So take the pressure off. Focus less on making a perfect decision, and more on making an informed one. Trust that you’ll grow into your path, even if it feels uncertain today 🙂

Here are some quizzes for you to try, to help figure out what really feels right for you:
–What career suits me best?
–What is my personality type?
–What city suits me best?
–What kind of university life do I prefer? (not a quiz)

Standing up to the Notwithstanding Clause: Interview with Sammy Brigden

Jianna H
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Standing up to the Notwithstanding Clause: Interview with Sammy Brigden

 

Once again, the Alberta Government has invoked the Notwithstanding Clause, a decision that has sparked controversy and ignited passion in the hearts of young people across Alberta.

What is Bill 9 and the Notwithstanding Clause?

Bill 9

You may have noticed that some students and parents/guardians were required to sign extra forms at the beginning of the school year. This was the work of three pieces of legislation that Premier Daniel Smith’s government passed that targeted trans youth. Bill 26 banned gender affirming care, such as sex reassignment surgery and hormone therapy. Bill 27 made permission from parents or guardians for a minor to use a preferred name or pronoun besides the ones assigned at birth, and lastly, Bill 29, which only allows for cisgender females to play in women’s sports. Now, on November 18th, Bill 9 was tabled in the Legislature. Bill 9 seeks to suspend court challenges against these bills by utilizing the Notwithstanding Clause, which was already imposed in late October with the Back to School Act.

Notwithstanding Clause

In Alberta, the Notwithstanding Clause has been used only twice prior to Premier Smith’s term. The Notwithstanding clause, section 33, was added to the Canadian Charter Rights and Freedoms as a way for governments to pass laws that would otherwise infringe on Canadian’s inherent rights during times of drastic measures. Premier Danielle Smith has stated that this action was necessary to protect children. Meanwhile, others have starkly different opinions on the matter.

Fighting Back

Many people, including the young people these bills are affecting, are speaking up against Bill 9. Previously, many people were outraged by Bills 26,27, and 29; athletes refusing to sign gender confirmation forms, school walkouts and protests. But now, students are rallying as they believe Bill 9 not only harms Trans Youth, but also bypasses democratic principles.

I had the opportunity to speak with Sammy Brigden, a Grade 11 student at Westmount Charter School, who organized a walkout on Thursday, November 20th, in protest against Bill 9. Later that day, over 1000 supporters rallied at McDougall Centre in downtown Calgary.

Photo by Gabriel Dalton on Unsplash

Interview with Sammy Brigden

What made you decide to organize the walkout?

I decided to hold this walkout now specifically because Bill 9, which is likely to be passed by the government, uses the notwithstanding clause to prevent any consequential legal challenges to these three pieces of legislation that affect trans rights.

When they were first passed around two years ago,  I was going to walkouts and protests then, but I feel like the cause has really become more important for more people to take part in because the government has started this pattern of using the notwithsatnding clause to override people’s rights and force things through parliament or through the legislature, and obviously that’s dangerous for everyone’s rights. What I said to people was, regardless of whether trans rights are an issue that you’ve been following, this is setting a dangerous precedent that we all need to pay attention to.

Is there a specific moment or person that inspired you to rally for change?

I was just in a silent rage for a long time, I think. In terms of being inspired to do the walkout when I was in grade nine at my previous school, there was a student in grade 12 who had organized a walkout to protest the legislation the first time it was passed, without the use of the notwithstanding clause. I was also really inspired by how students in public schools have been standing up recently through the walkout to protest the other use of the notwithstanding clause to prevent teachers from striking.  Those two instances were specific walkouts that I could look to.

I expressed this when I spoke to the news, but I have just been tired of sitting down. Adults and people who are not a part of the trans community need to be doing more to stand up for trans kids right now, and I figured that this would be a visible way to encourage that.

Is there any advice you would give to fellow youth who would like to organize a walkout or protest?

It’s kind of like an experiment, because I’ve never done this before, but I feel like the things that we did were successful. Once we got the news that this was likely going to happen-that the legislation was likely going to be passed. We organized as fast as possible,

I worked with GSA leaders (of Westmount Charter). We made 400 pamphlets and just distributed them early in the morning. Regardless of how many people came to the walkout, it was a really good opportunity to talk to other students. Trying to start conversations with people is really important.

The last thing was just like, you know, and we checked with administration to say like, hey, if a walkout were to happen, wink, wink, what would the consequences be? Because I think having that clarity is really important, because, you know, it’s a scary thing to stand up and walk out of class, you know, because you’re putting yourself out there. I was so impressed by the bravery of lots of students because they were like, “My parents don’t support this at all. They, you know, like they like Trump and stuff like that”. And still they were there. So I think having that clarity is really important.

What are some final takeaways you would like readers of the blog to leave with?

For me, the walkout was super heartening because I was just so impressed by, you know, Westmount’s students’ courage and articulation and how willing they were to do something that is scary and even for some of them dangerous, to stand up for themselves and their peers. I think I was really heartened by how people really came together as a community to support one another, because I think that is a really important thing to do when your government isn’t helping you out equally.

Likely, this legislation will pass, and so the next phase, in addition to trying to fight the legislation, is trying to find ways to support one another because it’s a difficult time. I really hope that people who haven’t been involved in this already start to get curious because, from the beginning, it has never just been about trans kids’ rights. And especially now, we can see that pattern of behaviour of the government of encroaching upon people’s rights for political gain.

As early as possible, people need to start standing up for charter rights. I also think it’s important to just stand up for people in your community who are being legally disadvantaged right now. And that might just be being like, hey, I care about you, I see you. That’s important too.

Final Remarks

Bill 9 is not only threatening to the Transgender community, but it is a brutal awakening of the collapse of Canadian democracy. In times like these, when the government is adamant on steamrolling over our charter rights, we must work together. But also simply support each other. As the next generation, it is our duty to speak up when we see injustices; political action does not begin when you turn 18, and you gain the ability to vote. Citizenship and participation in democracy are rights that, try as they might, they cannot strip from us.

Photo by Karollyne Videira Hubert on Unsplash

TL;DR

This past week, the Alberta Government has tabled Bill 9, a piece of legislation that, if passed, will utilize the notwithstanding clause to protect Bill 26, 27 and 29, which restrict the Trans Community. Students of Wetsmount Charter organized a walkout on Thursday, November 20, to show that they are not willing to sit by and watch idly as the government makes these decisions for trans children. Later that day, supporters and advocates gathered in downtown as well to show their support.

In an interview with Sammy Brigden, organizer of the protest, we spoke about the importance of youth standing up for our democratic rights and the effects of this legislation that will affect the future of the trans community and Albertans everywhere.

 

Sources

1,2,3,4,5

New Years Resolutions: How to Stick to It!

Jeanne Y
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New Years Resolutions: How to Stick to It!

 

New Years resolutions are notorious for being short-lived goals, and with 2026 coming up fast we’re beginning to think about them again. How can we reinvent ourselves in the new year? What are some goals that we want to achieve?

While self-improvement can be motivating and fun, it can be hard to stick to the promises we make ourselves at the beginning of each year. As a normal human being, I have also created many New Years Resolutions that I ultimately never kept up with. 2025 is my first year that I have stayed true to my New Years Resolution, and I could only maintain this because I changed a few key aspects of my goal-setting. In this post, I’ve compiled a few tips that I found useful in this year thus far that have helped me stick to my 2025 Resolution.

Why do you want to change?

When you set out your goals, be sure to have a clear reason why you want to achieve them. Although motivation is fickle, having a strong motive will help you get started and stay with your goal throughout the year.

For example, my New Years Resolution in 2025 was to build muscle. I had many reasons:

  • prevent cognitive decline and reduce chances of dementia, something I learned in my psychology class
  • reduce muscle atrophy as I age
  • increase cardiovascular health (my family has a bad history)
  • reduce chances of diabetes (my family has a bad history with this too)
  • increase endorphin release and happiness
  • increase focus
  • help joint stability
  • reduce chances of injury

The more reasons you have and the more they resonate with your core values, the harder it is to put the goal down.

How will you accumulate?

Self-improvement and growth are incredibly important, but the end destination often holds us in a chokehold and prevents us from answering the important question: how are you going to achieve these goals?

For example, it’s easy to say that you want to get 100% in your Physics 20 class because you want to be an aerospace engineer someday. But how will you do that? Will you study for an hour every day after school and 3 hours on weekends solely on physics? Will you attend each tutorial time?

Pick something that is easy to do on most days. Remember, you don’t rise to the level of your goals, you fall to the level of your systems. In order to create a system you can stick with, you need to make sure that it’s so easy to maintain that you could do it on your worst day. When you feel better, you can add on more.

For my 2025 goal, I chose to go running for 15 minutes at least twice a week, and to weightlift for 5 minutes after. I already really liked running, but it was hard to keep up every day when I was used to running only during PE class. Starting small and then gradually building up when I felt like I was ready significantly helped me keep to this resolution. I changed speeds, I changed inclines, and I increased time, but I did all of that on top of the bare minimum. 15 minutes was just feasible enough for the worst version of me to do, which made it easy to stick with.

For reference, I could barely keep running for 15 minutes total in January and I can now run 5k in 30 min.

When will you do this?

Another important aspect of goal setting is clearly envisioning yourself accumulating to reach the end goal. When will you fulfill your bare minimum days?

Make it flexible, and make it fit your schedule. Add a “most of the time” to your goal. This means that even if you miss a day or a week, it doesn’t ruin your consistency because you were flexible enough with the initial plan.

In my example, my goal was “to run 15 minutes and weightlift 5 minutes twice a week most of the time”. I sprained my ankle in March and couldn’t walk for a month and a half, but I was able to get back up when it healed and continue with my goal because I could still achieve “most of the time” if I ran for the rest of the year.

Measuring Progress

What is your measurement of progress? How will you know if you’re making any at all if you don’t track this?

Progress is another major motivator. Again, although motivation is fickle, a little bit of it here and there after the initial January push happens never hurts. It keeps you on track. Try to track quantitatively so that your mood won’t affect your results.

For example, if you want to drink 2L of water every day to improve your energy levels, you can track the amount of time you focus for. Maybe you can only focus for 10 minutes at the start of the year, and maybe at the end of the year your hydration helps increase your forcus to 30 minutes. Or, if you want to get better grades by studying a few hours every day, track the amount of knowledge you can retain through apps like Anki and Quizlet and how your grades reflect your effort.

I measured my progress through my speed and the time I could run consistently for. I gave you some numbers – that’s not just to show my progress but also to help motivate me because there’s a clear “before” and “after” that comes from my hard work.

You can set a target to meet this way as well. You will have a way of actually measuring how close you are to the end goal.

TL;DR

Setting goals and constantly improving ourselves is important. But sticking to those goals is the reason we make them, so sometimes we need to take a step back to reevaluate. Here are some key things to keep in mind as we take on 2026:

  • Why?
  • How?
    • When?
  • How much?

The Truth About Lucky Numbers

Vasundhara Joshi
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The Truth About Lucky Numbers

Lucky numbers have fascinated people for centuries. From the number seven being considered lucky in Western cultures to eight being seen as lucky in China, numbers have often been linked to fortune, fate, and chance. Many people pick lottery numbers, make important decisions, or even schedule events based on these beliefs. But when we look at it through the lens of mathematics, the idea of lucky numbers is more about perception than probability.

In reality, numbers themselves do not have inherent luck. Every number in a fair game, like a lottery or dice roll, has the same chance of being selected as any other number. Seven might feel lucky because of tradition or culture, but mathematically it has no better chance of appearing than any other number.

Probability myths often extend beyond just lucky numbers. People tend to see patterns where none exist, a phenomenon known as the “gambler’s fallacy.” For example, if a coin lands on heads five times in a row, many believe tails is “due” next. In truth, each flip of a fair coin is independent, meaning past results do not affect future outcomes. Similarly, in games of chance, numbers that appear less frequently are not more likely to appear in the next round. Probability is always based on the rules of the system, not on past patterns or personal beliefs.

Cultural associations with numbers also shape our perception of luck. In some cultures, certain numbers are avoided because they sound like words associated with misfortune, while others are celebrated because of positive associations. While these beliefs can influence behavior, they do not change the underlying mathematics. Probability and statistics operate independently of superstition, relying only on chance and measurable outcomes. Understanding this distinction is important, especially when making decisions that involve risk. Believing in lucky numbers or patterns can lead to overconfidence or poor judgment, especially in gambling or financial decisions.

The truth is that probability is predictable and measurable, but luck is not. Each event in a fair system has defined odds, and no number is inherently more likely to occur than another. Recognizing the difference between superstition and mathematics can help people make better decisions, avoid common mistakes, and understand the real role of chance in everyday life. While it can be fun to pick a “lucky number” or follow traditions, it is important to remember that probability is governed by laws, not beliefs. Understanding probability myths allows us to see beyond superstition and appreciate the patterns and fairness that mathematics shows, giving a clearer picture of how chance really works.

Sources:

https://deepsymbol.com/lucky-numbers-around-the-world/
https://thedecisionlab.com/biases/gamblers-fallacy

Christmas in Calgary

Anne J
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Christmas in Calgary

When should one begin to indulge in the Christmas spirit? Many stores would agree on right after Halloween is over. Some find anything before December 1st premature. Me personally, I think anything before the first week of December is obnoxious – but as I walked through downtown Calgary this weekend, I couldn’t help but feel excited seeing mini Christmas trees in shops and colorful lights strung on walls.

As November drags on in Calgary, temperatures get colder and skies get grayer. Perhaps it is through this dreary limbo of slush and gray frost that we all start looking forward to Christmas time. A marshmallow world of hot chocolate, snowmen, Christmas carols, and of course, good food. You know, maybe I can get behind Winner’s stocking Christmas items on November 1st. Because honestly, I wish it would come sooner too.

So, as we approach the Christmas season, here are some fun activities/events to check out in Calgary. As Mariah Carey might say… it’s timeeee!

ZOOLIGHTS

Where: The Calgary Zoo

When: November 14th – January 4th (tickets available)

What: Enjoy a fun night with family or friends at the Calgary Zoo, under twinkling lights, with good food, doing various fun, and with interactive activities. Visit themed areas like the Festive Forest, Sugar Plum Station, and the Rocky Mountain Trail. You can also enjoy interactive activities such as carousel rides, axe throwing, and cozy fire pits, while sipping hot chocolate and exploring festive animal themed displays. Santa and his elves make appearances for meet and greets, and dining options include festive buffets and private “snow globe” experiences.

MARKET COLLECTIVE HOLIDAY MARKET

Where: The BMO Center

When: December 5 – 7, 12 – 14 (check website for specific times)

What: The Market Collective Holiday Market in Calgary is a creative holiday bazaar held over two weekends at BMO Centre Hall D. With more than 160 local artisans (many brand new-to-MC), the market offers a curated mix of handmade goods, art, food, and vintage finds. You can also find interactive workshops (like card making and pottery), live performances, a kids’ zone, and even Santa portrait sessions. Admission is $10 for the weekend and free for kids 12 and under.

HERITAGE PARK’S “ONCE UPON A CHRISTMAS”

Where: Heritage Park Historical Village

When: December 6–7, 13–14, 20–21, and 22–23, 2025, daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

What: “Once Upon a Christmas” at Heritage Park is a charming, old world holiday celebration where visitors can wander through a historic village decked in festive decor. The event features horse drawn wagon rides, roaming carolers, a Christmas market, and visits with Santa. New for this year is a Heritage Holiday Train ride a winter train trip around the park to soak in the holiday magic.

 

Merry Christmas everyone!

Oh, Canada, Let’s talk politics: Money Talks

Diva Negi
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Oh, Canada, Let’s talk politics: Money Talks

     Often, politics feels like a game of those in power, with consequences for the public. Political donations help parties run campaigns, which in turn shape public messaging and influence the attention given to various issues.

      But with all the talk about big donors and party fundraising, young people are left to wonder: Who’s really shaping the policies that affect our futures?


“Political Parties and the Power of Fundraising”
     Inevitably, every political party in Canada will rely upon donations to survive; advertising, outreach, staff, and research cost money. While Canada does have strict laws ensuring the limitation of big-money influence, parties with stronger fundraising teams can build louder, broader campaigns. That means the groups that donate the most, whether it is individuals, unions, or community networks, it can help spotlight certain issues over others. The louder the funding, the louder the message is.

Youth Voices vs. Deep Pockets
     Young Canadians have invariably conveyed feelings of being sidelined in political conversations, even though issues like climate action, housing affordability, and mental health support hit us the hardest.

     When wealthy donors or organized interest groups dominate political fundraising, youth priorities may slip to the bottom of the pile. But here’s the catch: youth engagement, such as voting, volunteering, and advocating, can completely shift the political agenda just as powerfully as donations and create change for the better.

     Politicians shouldn’t go where the money is; rather, their duties rely on representing the public, so they have to follow the action. Right now, much of the youth don’t vote in elections, especially municipal elections, which can skew the resources and accessibility available to us on a local level. If you want to learn more about the importance of municipal voting, check out my previous blog here.

If Money Talks, Then So Can We
    While yes, money shapes politics, it doesn’t control the whole story and doesn’t have to be this way. Young people have numbers, passion, and lived experience on their side.


     So let’s use it. Register to vote, research and hold representatives accountable, learn how party platforms are built, show up at town hall, and support candidates who reflect your values.


     If we speak loudly and consistently enough, politicians will listen.
Your voice is worth more than any donation. Use it.

 

sources

https://thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/party-financing

https://www.elections.ca/res/rep/off/wbc/recommandations_e.pdf

https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/42-28-0001/2021001/article/00006-eng.htm

https://foreigninterferencecommission.ca/fileadmin/user_upload/Foreign_Interference_Commission_-_Initial_Report__May_2024__-_Digital.pdf

Kate Sheppard: The First Lady Won Voting Rights For Women

Khanh Linh
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Kate Sheppard: The First Lady Won Voting Rights For Women

Nowadays, women have the right to vote. However, when we look back into the history book, women didn’t get their voting rights until the 19th to 20th century [1]. During that period, many powerful pioneering ladies stood up and fought for the voting rights for women. The first lady to bring voting rights to women is Kate Sheppard.

Background information:

Catherine “Kate” Wilson Sheppard (née Malcolm) was born on March 10, 1847, in Liverpool, England, to a Scottish family. After her father’s death in 1862, she lived with her uncle, who influenced her with Christian socialist values. In 1869, her family moved to Christchurch, New Zealand. [2]

Activities and achievements:

She started by joining the Leader of the Women’s Christian Temperance Union (WCTU) in 1885 and became a powerful political force for suffrage, education, and social reform for women. She also founded and served as the first president of the National Council of Women of New Zealand in 1896 to fight for equal pay, women’s legal rights.

Sheppard held three huge petitions between 1891-1893. The 1893 petition was massive and influential: 32,000 signatures and over 270 meters long. The impact of the petition was huge and pressured the government to take action. Her advocacy won the right for women to vote in New Zealand in 1893, which made New Zealand the first democratic country in the world to allow women to vote (1893 Electoral Bill).

Sheppard also spoke strongly for divorce law reform, women’s financial rights, education for girls, and better working conditions, with a wish for equality in all parts of society. [2]

Legacy

Kate Sheppard becomes New Zealand’s most iconic and influential feminist figure. Her impact is acknowledged by appearing on the New Zealand $10 banknote. People build statues and coordinate exhibitions in museums to honour her. Plus, there are countless books and documentaries about Sheppard, too. What’s more, she inspired women around the world to continue to fight for their rights as a successful pioneer. [3]

Conclusion:

We’re grateful for the lasting impacts of her contributions and legacy in fighting for women’s rights, especially the right to vote. Her dedications and activism transformed New Zealand’s electoral landscape and encouraged women to rise up and fight for their rights. Her story reminds us to always stand up to protect and fights for our rights and others’ to make our society a better place.

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