Week 7 Campus Briefs

Campus Briefs

To Label or Not to Label Genetically Modified Foods
On Monday, the Food and Agribusiness Institute hosted an event on Proposition 37 as part of its Food for Thought Speaking Series.
An expert in the field of genetically engineered foods, University of California, Berkeley Professor David Zilberman served as guest speaker for the event, which was held in Benson Memorial Center's Williman Room.
Prop 37, which will be voted on in the upcoming election, would require labeling on foods, raw or processed, that have been genetically modified in certain ways.
Zilberman, who serves as a professor for UC Berkeley's Agriculture and Resource Economics Department, spoke in depth on the subject of genetically modified foods and discussed the issues surrounding Prop 37.
He explained that the proposition is not about whether labeling should be available, but rather, whether labeling should be made mandatory or voluntary. He also said that labeling is currently required on food or products that contain toxic ingredients and that there is no evidence that genetically modified foods are any more dangerous than organic foods.
Zilberman discussed the benefits of genetically modified food using statistics and examples to support his position. He went on to explain how genetically modified food allows for lower food prices and how requiring labels on them would lead to increases in prices. According to him, genetically modified foods are a safe and necessary solution that will help countries keep up with climate change.
"How can we adapt to our environment without using the latest technology?" Zilberman asked.
The event drew in a diverse audience, from high school students to business school professors.
The Food and Agribusiness Institute will host their next event on Nov. 12, called "The Business of Smoothies."

Month of Remembrance, November Celebration
Thursday marks the beginning of the Month of Remembrance for the Catholic Church as well as for Santa Clara .Traditional events such as Mass will be held throughout the month to commemorate those who have passed.
Month of Remembrance follows Dia de los Muertos, a Mexican holiday for families to honor those who have passed away. The Month of Remembrance dedicates certain days in celebration and in Mass services to commemorate those who have died.
The month is celebrated at Santa Clara because of the school's Catholic tradition. Three Masses are also planned for the same day, one at 12:05 p.m. and 5 p.m., along with a Spanish language Mass at 8 p.m., where for students, family, and friends are welcome to attend. A Reconciliation Service is planned for Nov. 7, also involving the chance for individual confessions.
"Sr. Ana Pineda's class also set up an altar of the dead to help commemorate and celebrate those who have passed," said sophomore Jessica Lopez.
Students, faculty and staff are welcome to place a token of remembrance whether it be a photograph or knick-knack, on the altar to celebrate the deceased. This altar, located at the side Chapel of the Holy Family in the Mission Church, has been a part of the tradition of the celebration at Santa Clara for 15 years.
The celebration itself is timeless and has been practiced in relation to the Catholic Church. One of the main focuses of the celebration magnifies honoring the dead by remembering and celebrating their life.
The tradition isn't one that is sad or gloomy, but one that celebrates the memory of the deceased as well as the faith and hope of what life has to offer.
The celebration will commemorate the recent passing of beloved Father William F. Donnelly.

From staff reports. Contact news@thesantaclara.com or call (408) 554-4948.