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Your iPhone can detect earthquakes

Rebecca Yang
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Our newly reformed touch-screen world.
Our newly reformed touch-screen world.

Before this article becomes a heavy dispute over Apple’s thumb print-reading technology, or the ever-co controversial hype between Samsung and Apple, I would firstly like to state that the technology for detecting earthquakes may not just lay within the temperamental screens of iPhones.

In a recent study published in the Bulletin of the Seismological Society of America, it has been reported that the Micro-Electro-Mechanical System (MEMS) accelerometers can measure the acceleration rate of the vibrations and movements from cars, buildings and-of course- the ground during an earthquake. For all of you who have a phobia of technological terms, the MEMS accelerometers are the tiny chips encase in your phone and laptop screen that allows your screen to adjust, accordingly to your position. Otherwise, it is known as the extremely annoying chip that is makes your phone screen overly sensitive to the slightest motion.

A diagram of a typical MEMS sensor.
A diagram of a typical MEMS sensor.

Seismologists Antonio D’Alessandro and Giuseppe D’Anna from Italy have tested these rather inexpensive MEMS accelerometers to see if they could effectively and reliably detect ground motion created by earthquakes. Specifically, they experimented with the MEMS accelerometer in the iPhone and compared it with an actual earthquake sensor, the ES-T force balance accelerometer from Kinemetrics INC. It was yet another showdown between Apple and another corporation.

It was revealed that the MEMS accelerometer from the iPhone could actually detect earthquakes that have a magnitude of greater than 5. Many scientists believe that with this knowledge, the technology could be adjusted in order to sense weaker earthquakes.

This is a break through moment for the seismology community. The MEMS accelerometers are inputed into a wide range of cell phones and laptops in many areas. Therefore, this would create a seismic network in an urban surrounding that could radiate data in real-time in the circumstances of an earthquake. The plethora of the ground motion data could assist first responders to locate the areas that are susceptible to the greatest extent of damage.

Volunteers offer resources to the victims of the Haiti earthquake.
Volunteers offer resources to the victims of the Haiti earthquake.

So before you throw your iPhone or any other touch-screen device in a state of rage because the screen keeps rotating, think of the resources and lives you could preserve by practicing some patience. “A moment of patience in a moment of anger can help us avoid a thousand moments of sorrow.”-Imam Ali (A.S.)Or perhaps just put the screen-lock function on your device. Either way, technology is a beautiful thing.

For more inventive ideas and revolutions in the science world, check out EurekAlert!

A new Canadian online magazine representing youth everywhere

T. W.
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A post about another online magazine on a (basically) online magazine? Blasphemous! But that is exactly what it is: we are talking about the one and only Canadian youth-run online magazine, The Young Wanderer.

As taken straight from the site, here is what TYW is in a nutshell:
“The Young Wanderer is a student-led online magazine based in Alberta with the aim of showcasing the thoughts and perspectives of high school students across Canada. By promoting coherent, creative and quality-based content, we strive to ensure that the perception of youth is a positive one.”

Basically, the youth of today have gotten quite a reputation for being disturbing little punks. The general stereotype is that we seem to constantly be texting, slandering people on the internet and in general, getting dumber. But this is not the case.

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“According to Fernando H. Cardoso, former President of Brazil, “today’s youth are more aware and have a broader worldview than generations before them” —which is all the more reason for the world to adopt tangible solutions that heighten youth engagement; The Young Wanderer is one of them.” 
~Rohan Nuttel

If you’d like to check out interesting pages on The Young Wanderer such as the Politics of Marijuana, how to apply to get to Mars, and a fantastic gallery of digital art: they’re all here.

The best part? You can submit your very own article or pictures to the website right here: http://www.theyoungwanderer.com/contact/ which is a great chance to show off any works of yours, including but not limited to heated discussion about problems around the world, heart breaking stories and fantastic imaginative art.

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Like the FB page for updates on articles and art every week! https://www.facebook.com/theyoungwanderer

Follow the Twitter and if you’ve got any advice to give TYW on using Twitter, we’d appreciate your help (so we can be more sassy): https://twitter.com/WanderingYoung

Video of the Day: Thai Commercial on Giving

Ananya
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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3GGfZGQbia8

This viral video was an instant classic because of its tear-jerking characters and the idea that a simple act of kindness can inspire many other bigger acts. Thai communication provider TrueMove H truly made a classic with this commercial because it shows the immense power that we humans have within us to influence and change other people’s perceptions and lives with just a single, simple act of kindness. So, when you go about your day, try to perform at least one act of kindness each day. It might seem like a lot but holding the door open for another person, lending a pencil to a classmate or letting an elderly person board the bus before you are all considered acts of kindness and they’re quite simple to do. When we think about all that we’ve been provided with in this world, a simple kind act isn’t so hard to perform. In the end, giving back to the world without expecting something in return can make us and others feel better, and often when we least expect it, we may be the recipient of a kind act!

For more random acts of kindness, check out the HuffPost galary.

Look further into your own perceptions

Asa Bapat
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Perception
Image credit

The word perception is defined as the way an individual looks at something. It is not the description of how that something is or should be. Perceptions are often based on stereotypical images or traits.

As a new immigrant, the diversity Canada has to offer can be quite overwhelming. I confess of having judged people on their looks, styles, academics and various other parameters. But over time, I have realized that by judging people, you stay away from them and feel lonely and left out. But if you meet people and give them a fair chance, without having any preconceptions, chances of you meeting good people increase.

In my life so far, if I would have trusted my initial perceptions, I would have not met many of the best people in my life. So do not base your perceptions on stereotypes. It’s awesome to be out of the box and most essentially to be you.

Neena
Image credit

As human beings, we form perceptions about everything. This thing is not suitable for this occasion or this type of people don’t like such and such things. But trust me, people who go beyond these barriers of perception earn glories and they deserve it! A very glaring and recent example is none other than Miss America Nina Davuluri. She not only presented a fusion of Bollywood and Indian Classical dance at one of the biggest Western competitions ever, but also won it! Who in their dreams would think of experimenting in such an important competition, by performing a totally different form of art? But she did! And she could do it only because she believed in herself and was not afraid to show it off to the world. She has done a tremendously big task – an act that changed perceptions! So perceptions are not a tool to judge others, but indeed a tool to look at the world through your OWN eyes, in your OWN WAY!

Nominate outstanding citizens for a YMCA Peace Medal

jen
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This is a guest post from YMCA Calgary.

LegacyCorporation
Members of The Legacy Corporation at Vincent Massey Junior High, 2012 YMCA Peace Medal recipients for International Peace Initiatives in the Youth Group category.

Do you know someone in your community who has done amazing work? Nominate them for a YMCA Peace Medal!

We have seen a great deal of generosity, compassion and kindness since this year’s Southern Alberta Flood Emergency. A YMCA Peace Medal nomination is a great way to recognize someone for their efforts in making our world a better place. Nominations also helps create awareness about community needs and inspires others to get involved.

Help YMCA Calgary celebrate and honour outstanding Calgarians. The recipients will be honoured at the 2013 Peace Medals event happening on Thursday, November 21, 2013, during YMCA Peace Week. YMCA Calgary invites people of all ages to reflect on peace, to talk, and to take action, individually and with others.

“We each have a role to play in promoting peace,” said Helene Weir, YMCA Calgary President and CEO. “The 2013 Peace Medals recipients inspire us all to think about how we can make our community a better place.”

YMCA Calgary celebrates YMCA World Peace Week each November. This year’s theme, “Join the Peace Movement. Think it, Say it, Do it!” encourages all Canadians to get involved in helping to build peace. YMCA Calgary strives to recognize local peace builders, create awareness about local and international needs, and inspire everyone to take action.

Download the Nomination Package at YMCA Calgary.

Art and fashion mix to create culture and celebrate local talent

Malika Daya
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PARKLUXE13_POSTER_V3On Oct 5, Calgary will have it’s 12th annual non-profit art and fashion show, PARKLUXE, at the Telus Spark Science Centre. This event is designed to connect fabulous local designers to Alberta and celebrate their boldness and success in North American markets. Woohoo, go fashionistas!

The organization is established to add to Calgary’s culture scene and anticipates around 800 people from all over the country to attend. All funds received go directly to hosting more events promoting local aspiring artists.

Not only will you see fashion designers and models around but there is also a wonderful artist attending: Kirk Dunkey, a Master of Arts graduate from the University of Calgary. It is said that his sculpture project causes a relationship between the audience and the art.

“My goal with this show is to inspire others,” Dunkley says. “I also aim to produce a beautiful installation that will frame the event, and provide a formal and minimalist aesthetic context for the evening. Patrons will experience a visually stunning large scale installation, exploring the articulation of space and time through light, form and interactivity.”

So let’s talk about fashion for a minute. The talented designers attending are: Laura Siegel, Lauren Bagliore, Paul Hardy, Anna B Accessories, Nicole Campre, and Malorie Urbanovitch. I can’t wait to see their fall/winter collections for 2013-2014!

Third-time PARKLUXE participating Calgary-based designer, Anne Corpuz-Bacalso of Anne B. Accessories said, “What also has crept back into the forefront is thick, cuff-style, tall bracelets that actually have become somewhat of a classic accessory.”

If you are interested in this event I urge you to buy tickets and attend, honestly it is worth it! Who wouldn’t want to be apart of Calgary’s art scene and contribute to the future of our aspiring artists?

You can by tickets online at www.ourPARKonline.com for as low as standing room at $35, general seating at $60 and VIP at $100. Don’t miss this amazing opportunity. This is your chance to enjoy art and make a difference in the community!

PARK

Talented artists show off their skills at Artwalk 2013

Louisa
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Last week, my art teacher suggested an event to our class. She told us about Artwalk, and I was intrigued. Completely optional and just for fun, she still recommended we go. I thought, hey, why not?

Calgary Artwalk is a fantastic event spanning over two days and several blocks in downtown Calgary. I had the pleasure to visit Artwalk for myself last Saturday. It was eye-opening to the amount of art happening just in Calgary. The artwork was all incredible. There were so many different types of styles and genres of art, and I do not regret sitting through unbearable traffic in order to have the opportunity to see it.

Artwalk is not all located in a single destination; Artwalk happens all around the city centre. There are multiple locations along many streets, and if they have a yellow sign in their window saying “Calgary Artwalk 2013,” then you can go in and peruse through the artworks. It is a free event, but the artists whose works are featured also get free promotion and it helps sell their art. Most artworks sell for over $800, many being in the $1000s, but they deserve it. Art is painstakingly difficult, and though enjoyable, those artists work very hard for the pay they receive, which is not definite and regular. Artists, in my  opinion, are some of the most hardworking people, and their talent spills beautifully onto a physical piece that one may hang on his wall or display on a pedestal.

I highly recommend that people attend this free, annual event. I assume that it will be around the same time next year, and I will make sure to make a blog about it, as I will most definitely be going.

 

Night Dances by Louise Dandurand, oil on canvas pointillism art. The detail in this piece was spectacular and meticulous. It must have taken a very long time to paint, especially being 46 inches tall and 36 inches wide.
Night Dances by Louise Dandurand, oil on canvas pointillism art. The detail in this piece was spectacular and meticulous. It must have taken a very long time to paint, especially being 46 inches tall and 36 inches wide.

 

White and Gilded Copper - oil painting by Ginette Beaulieu, featured at Webster Galleries
White and Gilded Copper – oil painting by Ginette Beaulieu, featured at Webster Galleries
A piece that intrigued me due to its magical, wispy nature. Alliance-Nature, oil painting, by Ginette Beaulieu, featured in Webster Galleries
A piece that intrigued me due to its magical, wispy nature. Alliance-Nature, oil painting, by Ginette Beaulieu, featured in Webster Galleries
Green Tea-The Vert, oil still-life painting by Ginette Beaulieu
Green Tea-The Vert, oil still-life painting by Ginette Beaulieu
Tony Mascardelli's Ballerina Medium: pencil Featured in Webster Galleries
Tony Mascardelli’s Ballerina
Medium: pencil
Featured in Webster Galleries
Looking Back from Lake Minnewanka, oil on board, by Alain Gagne, featured in Webster Galleries
Looking Back from Lake Minnewanka, oil on board, by Alain Gagne, featured in Webster Galleries
Art Class - Oil on Canvas cubist art by Denis Chiasson
Art Class – Oil on Canvas cubist art by Denis Chiasson
In Galleria, by Ruth Vickers
In Galleria, by Ruth Vickers
Calm Before the Storm by Blu Smith; acrylic on canvas
Calm Before the Storm by Blu Smith; acrylic on canvas
At the Dock, oil on canvas painting by Dan Varnals
At the Dock, oil on canvas painting by Dan Varnals

 

Calgary’s doors are open for exclusive behind-the-scenes tours

Aaron
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From their Facebook Page
Image Courtesy Doors Open Calgary’s Facebook Page

September 27-29, 2013, Doors Open Calgary will be held, allowing the general public a chance to check out Calgary’s most interesting attractions, all for free. From the Calgary Tower to the Taylor Family Digital Library to the Glenmore Water Treatment Plant, over 30 amazing sites will all be open for exclusive behind-the-scenes tours.

From their Facebook Page
Courtesy Facebook

This year is the second annual Doors Open event in Calgary, and many others have been held around the work. the event is planned by the non-profit Doors Open Calgary Association to create and develop interest for heritage and culturally significant places/spaces.

Male sure you check out their website for a complete list of sites this weekend, as well as their Facebook and Instagram for the most up-to-date news.

From their Facebook Page
Courtesy Facebook

DIY chocolate chip nutella whipped cream cups

lily
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Lately I’ve been seeing a lot of posts on tumblr where people have made chocolate chip cookies into cup-shapes and filled them with icing. Of course, being the food addict that I am, I just had to go and try making my own. However, I found that most of the chocolate chip cookie recipes on the internet are a bit too soft to mold into cup shapes, so I’ve finally decided to just purchase cookie dough. The results were fantastic, and I think figured out the perfect filling for these chocolate cups as well. So here we go, what you’ll need for this recipe is:

-1 package (around 14-16 ounce) of chocolate chip cookie dough

-a cupcake tray

http://www.verybestbaking.com/recipes/29700/Chocolatey-Chocolate-Chip-Cookie-Cups/detail.aspx
http://www.verybestbaking.com/recipes/29700/Chocolatey-Chocolate-Chip-Cookie-Cups/detail.aspx

That’s it, it’s as simple as that. Press 3 tbsps (or however according to the size of your tray) of the cookie dough to the sides and bottom of the cupcake tray, and bake for the the amount of time directed in the instructions. Make sure to use butter or non-stick spray on the tray beforehand to avoid the cups breaking. If you wish to make the dough from scratch instead, be careful to not use a recipe that requires a lot of liquids, as you want the dough to stay in place.

realmomkitchen.com
realmomkitchen.com
www.straight.com
www.straight.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

And now, for the filling. My preferred filling consists of Nutella, whipped cream and fresh fruits. To make this filling, you’ll need:

-1 cup of whipping cream

-1/4 cup of Nutella, room temperature

-optional toppings of strawberries, blueberries, or any fruit of choice

Whip the cream in a bowl until stiff peaks begin to form. When you see this, pour the nutella into the bowl and continue to mix until desired consistency. Fill each chocolate chip cup with the cream, and garnish with fruits.

Are fans taking fiction too far?

A N
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I am sure everyone reading this has a book series, movie, or television show that they are obsessed about. That one where you count down the days until the next episode, that one that you buy all the merchandise from so now you have no room in your closet for normal clothes. I get it; I have the same problem. There is usually that couple or even two characters not together that you wish were. I am sure that some of you would go to crazy extents to see these two characters together. The only way you can do that is to check out some fan fiction.

SOURCE: divinesecretsofthewritingsisterhood.blogspot.com -
SOURCE: divinesecretsofthewritingsisterhood.blogspot.com –

Fan fiction is really quite cool in some ways. It lets you be creative and satisfy your desire for two characters to be together. Some of them are quite cute – they can be about them building their relationship, going on dates, just your average cheesy/trashy romance novel, but unfortunately most of them end up being erotic in some way shape or form. The worst part of it all is that most of these fan fiction are written by people as young as 12. This leads me to the question, is fan fiction healthy or even appropriate at all?

I think it depends on the situation. I support in writing to show creativity, thoughts or feelings; however, not for the purpose of erotic fiction. It’s great to make or read a cute little romance story between your two favorite characters but it is definitely not okay, at this age, to be making or reading something as erotic as fan fiction can be. I do understand and have come across the fact that some books you read at this age do have some sexual things in them, which isn’t a problem because let’s face it, sex is a real thing that can happen with teenagers our age. However, I have never came across a book which has had extreme detail within the “sex scene” as much as fan fiction has. Books and literature, in most cases, are written by young adults or adults, who have written these scenes to inform readers. The main purpose of fan fiction is to entertain, which in some cases is written by a way younger person. Did you know that 50 Shades of Grey, a well-known erotic novel, was originally written as Twilight fan fiction?

Conclusion: fan fiction is a great way to express emotions, to a certain extent. Otherwise, it is just plain creepy.

 

 

My experience with the Open Happiness Project

sheliza
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Do you enjoying giving happiness? Even the smallest things in life can truly make a difference. This summer, I was fortunate to be one of the three teens chosen to take part in Coca Cola’s Open Happiness Project. They allowed my organization, Children’s Birthday Miracles, to celebrate our biggest birthday party! Coca Cola rented all of Calaway Park for 200 teens to experience a day like no other. They provided a giant cake, unlimited rides, unlimited games, treats, barbecue meal and loot-bags for every individual. The experience is captured in this two minute YouTube video that explains the story of how Children’s Birthday Miracles began and where Coca-Cola found us. Check it out!

Now, I encourage you to spread happiness around your community, country and world. We can get every organization and company to join us in this movement to make an impact on today’s society. Are you ready to give happiness?

 

Coca Cola Birthday - 3601w

The perfect, easy afternoon snack

Dani Kilani
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If you like apples and oatmeal, I got a snack for you. The recipe I have chosen is healthy, homemade and a good snack after a long day or before your afternoon activities. This recipe is Quaker Oats apple crisp.

You will need:

5 averagely sized Peeled and sliced apples

1/2 tbsp Brown Sugar

1 tbsp Lemon Juice

1 /4 cup water

1 cup Quaker oats

1/3 cup flour

3/4 cup brown sugar

1/2 tsp salt

1/3 cup butter

Directions:

8 servings

PREHEAT oven to 375 degrees Celsius

1. Place apples in a greased shallow 9 inch square baking dish.

2. Sprinkle with lemon juice, brown sugar and water.

3. Combine remaining dry ingredients in a separate bowl.

4. Add melted butter mixing until crumbly.

5. Sprinkle Crumbly mixture on top of apples.

6. Bake at 375 degrees Celsius for 30 minutes or until tender.

7. Enjoy and share your delicious apple crisp.

I recommend adding vanilla ice cream on the side to make your snack even more enjoyable.

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Celebrate the season by baking pumpkin spice cupcakes

Lauren Morris
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Celebrate the season by baking pumpkin spice cupcakes

For a seasonal and spicy treat, a traditional pumpkin pie is always a safe bet. But what if you want a dessert that’s a little bit cuter? That’s where we introduce the pumpkin spice cupcake, the perfect way to infuse flavours of fall into a fun, and unique dessert. Ever since Starbucks came out with their pumpkin spice latte, today one of the most popular seasonal beverages, pumpkin spice as both a flavour and scent has been increasing in popularity, making pumpkin spice cupcakes a great fall party treat.

I made these cupcakes last weekend for a potluck at my neighbour’s house, and they were definitely a hit. From the moment pumpkin spice cupcakethey were brought in, they had guests oohing and awing over them, the popularity of the flavour giving the cupcakes an excellent first impression. The cupcakes popularity persisted after tasting, and by the end of the night only five out of the original twenty-five were left.

The cupcakes themselves were easy and straightforward to make, a recipe even the most novice baker could follow. Generous amounts of pumpkin and spices made for a flavourful cupcake, and the cinnamon in the cream cheese icing added an extra touch of spice to the cupcakes.

All in all, the cupcakes turned out great, I had no problem following the recipe and have no suggestions or modifications to make. This is definitely one recipe which is going into my reserves, and for anyone who loves pumpkin spice this is the cupcake for you!

The recipe is available here.

Stars light up the Jersey Shore

Rebecca Yang
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This past Sunday, I was cruising through the glorious National Geographic magazine website. I wanted to just find a cool video online and I stumbled upon this stunning time lapse clip of the night sky that overlooks the Jersey coastline. Due to the unwavering light pollution of the city, it is quite difficult to see the stars. However, photographer Jack Fusco successfully captures the serenity of the Jersey sky.

As many of us are aware of the devastation that ensued after Hurricane Sandy, this video signifies more than the pretty lights in the sky (see the aftermath of Sandy here). It is a sign of peace and calm that has finally arose in the desolate chaos of the storm. The stars that alight the video pose as a beacon of hope for the people who were directly hit by the storm as well as those who watched lives and homes be washed away into the menacing waves. This video comes in fashionable timing that shows both the world and the victims of the hurricane that the Jersey coast can still be a place of tranquility and magnificence.

Whether you were a victim, a beholder or a supporter in the wake of Hurricane Sandy, enjoy this video and share it for the significance of its meaning and for its amazing videography. Watch the stars coast along the shore’s sky as they inspire the calm after the storm.

 

A noble poem for the day

Julia
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I’m one of those weirdos who loves poetry (and I’m proud of it!). So when we are given an assignment at school that is all about discovering poems, writing poems, and visually sharing them, I am happy. However, this assignment has taken a lot of time… and so because of that and tons of other things that fit together to make up my hectic life, I didn’t have a lot of time and words for this post this week. So I thought it might be fitting to share a poem 🙂

This one is by the wonderful Alice Cary, and I found it on the 111th page of a wonderful little poetry book called 101 Famous Poems.

Copy and pasting a poem is easy and boring, so instead I present…

the visual I created to share Cary’s piece!

Screen Shot 2013-09-21 at 3.18.42 PM

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