Daily News

Posted on Nov. 7: Flu season battle begins

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, leads to complications causing the death of hundreds of Ontarians each year. But armed with a vaccination, chances of catching this highly contagious disease can drop 70-80 per cent. Beginning next week at McMaster, free flu shots will be available in the McMaster University Student Centre, Rm. 319. The clinics will take place Nov. 10, 11, 18 and 19 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bring your Health Insurance Card and McMaster Identification Card and wear a short-sleeved shirt. An additional clinic will take place at the Downtown Centre on Friday, Nov. 21 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. in Rm. 210. "Immunization is the best prevention against influenza infections," says Debra Earl, employee health educator. "A healthy diet, regular exercise and adequate sleep are all factors in how effectively your immune system will fight any infection. When it comes to the flu virus, you may need more protection, especially if you already have a medical condition."

Posted on Nov. 7: University celebrates naming of Donaldson Family Marketplace

When Robert Donaldson attended McMaster in the early 1960s, the thought of taking breaks between classes in a spacious student centre with its own fireside lounge could only be considered a dream. At the time, he and his classmates had to make do with the Wentworth House as a make-shift student centre. Now, thanks in part to a $1-million gift from the Donaldson family, McMaster students for the first time in the University's 115-year history have a permanent home that provides a meeting space for all student clubs and associations as well as student services all in one central building. Donaldson, his wife Marnie, family and friends were on hand this past Wednesday to celebrate the naming of the McMaster University Student Centre (MUSC) marketplace as the Donaldson Family Marketplace. Donaldson says the gift is made on behalf of his entire family. Seven members of the extended Donaldson family, including his father, call McMaster their alma mater and (more will likely follow). As well as graduating from McMaster in 1961, Donaldson has also been a loyal President's Club member for many years.

Posted on Nov. 6: Commonwealth Games decision down to the wire

As minutes tick down to the long awaited decision of who will host the 2010 Commonwealth Games, anticipation is high. Members of the community are invited to a hometown celebration' on Thursday, Nov. 13, when Commonwealth Games delegates will reveal live from Jamaica who will host the Games Hamilton or New Delhi. The announcement will take place following a final 30-minute presentation by the Hamilton bid team. Nearly 10,000 spectators are expected to attend the announcement at Copps Coliseum in downtown Hamilton. Doors open at 3:30 p.m., and the estimated time of announcement is 5:30 p.m. "There is a lot of anticipation leading up to this announcement," says vice-president university advancement Roger Trull, who admits he has had a few sleepless nights leading up to this momentous event. As the team leader, Trull will be in Jamaica next week to hear the announcement.