THE COMMUNITY PAPER OF NIAGARA COLLEGE
FREE March 18, 2011 Vol 41 • Issue 13 Is this art or vandalism?
Greg Gibson sits in front of one of Black Walnut’s walls covered with writing and art done by him and other students. Photo by Sabine Dunac Activist graphic designer creates controversial wall art By SABINE DUNAC nut building at the Welland campus on a quest to post Guerrilla Project cafeteria with prints in my hand and Gibson says he then spoke to Staff Writer were initiated by Greg Gibson. posters around the Welland campus. there was a guy on a walkie-talkie, three custodians who told him that Whether it’s seen as vandalism Gibson is the creator of Guerilla As soon as he posted them on the calling all the security over and a their boss, Mal Woodhouse, head or a refl ection of students’ self-ex- Project, an activist group, and is a walls, they came down. bunch of custodians, saying, ‘I want of Facilities Management Services, pression, the graphics and messages fi rst-year Graphic Design student. “I had [posters] up for about four all the guerrilla shit down now,’” told them to take them down. covering the walls of the Black Wal- It all began when Gibson went hours. I was walking back from the says Gibson. Continued on page 2 Disaster Welland Former WNBA Inside in Japan woman revisits star speaks continues to a history of in honour of Niagara escalate » abuse » CCAA games » Residents report food and power A survivor of sexual abuse as a Kelly Schumacher visits Niagara shortages amidst fears of a nuclear child, Susan Mason recounts her to voice her support for the Knights News meltdown. story in hopes it will help others. in the CCAA games. On Page 8 On Page 16 On Page 21 Page 2 NIAGARA NEWS March 18, 2011 NEWS Continued from Page 1 forward in the future as we plan Gibson then scheduled an ap- new space for Graphic Design stu- pointment with Woodhouse. dents there needs to be a permanent In response, Woodhouse says, “I type of facility where they can do don’t remember what was on them. Black Walnut that on an ongoing basis. It’s fi lling [It] doesn’t matter to me. Policy a need to an expression of creativ- and procedure is that all posters ity.” have to be stamped by the Student James Gielfeldt, co-ordinator of Administrative Council (SAC) and graphic artist says he’s the Graphic Design program, says, put on their bulletin boards. What’s “It’s something that got carried been happening is that [SAC] away. The person who started it hasn’t been doing it. They’ve been with his posters had the vision. For stamping them but they don’t have not trying to be a rebel some reason it got misinterpreted time to go to the bulletin boards.” and it became a battle of wills be- Woodhouse adds, “I understand tween management, security and SAC’s absence of being able to this person. Once a few students got properly manage it. We’re growing onto it and started piggy backing and getting bigger.” this guy, it got stupid.” Katie Miller, vice-president of Brad Colotelo, a part-time SAC, says, “Posters cannot go up teacher of the Portfolio Class, says on the wall. If there is any damage he agrees with the art on the walls to the paint or the walls, that person of the Black Walnut in principal. will be charged.” He says, “Having come from an As for SAC’s bulletin boards art background, I wholeheartedly Miller says, “SAC boards are understand. The execution is not primarily for SAC events. That good and the meaning isn’t there being said, if we have extra room but I get why they need a place to that would be when we could put express themselves.” [posters] up.” After security was called they Gibson says he went to the SAC stopped students from writing offi ce to get his posters approved anything further on the walls. It after fi nding out about the SAC was clear tension and division was poster approval process. He says created among students and then he attempted to obtain approval by students on the Black Walnut by the offi ce but a lady in the SAC building. offi ce told him “they wouldn’t ap- Derek Veenhof, 22, in his third prove it at this date.” year of Graphic Design, says, “They kind of just brushed me “There’s been worse things in here off,” says Gibson. that have recently happened that He then fi led an offi cial appeal security hasn’t bothered too much through Student Services to work about and all of a sudden this is on getting the approval process and such a big deal.” rules changed. “What is disgusting is that the “I went in respectful. I’m not try- reaction from management has ing to break all their rules; I’m not been so strong on this. We’ve had trying to be a rebel. I wanted them security through here every 20 to know that there is a cause.” minutes. Property is taking prece- During the meeting Gibson dence over people,” says Gielfeldt. had with Woodhouse, they both Gibson says that in retrospect discussed what changes could be even the people who are criticiz- done about the process and options ing the state of the walls in Black available to students wanting to Walnut now are going to look back post their material. and realize a lot of positives came “I would like this to be a place out of this. “They think that [it’s] a of thought. I’m suggesting we get negative wall right now but every some good size eight by four bul- single person there was talking so letin boards instead of the little much that the school is changing ones we currently have. ... I don’t two rules.” think [SAC] bulletin boards are big Gibson says all the Graphic De- enough,” says Woodhouse. sign students from now on out will Gibson says, “[Woodhouse’s] be able to put up their work and idea [was] to put up bulletin boards express what’s on their mind. in common areas and have them re- “[Greg]’s a hell of a self pro- freshed either weekly or monthly. moter. I’ve got to hand it to him in My idea was using the pillars. that sense. Probably more people They’re in common areas, they’re know him than anybody else. spaced out, and it’s perfect for ad- He’s a bright young man. I know vertising.” I’ll never forget his name, I like Together Woodhouse and Gib- him and the way he thinks,” says son collaborated on some ideas. Woodhouse. He says his meeting with Wood- In a memo released by Cecil house was productive, however, on March 11 it says, “We will on March 11 Gibson was called organize meetings involving fac- into a second meeting, this time ulty, students and administration to with Woodhouse, Brigitte Chiki, discuss the Black Walnut building director of Student Services, David wall spaces as a possible venue for Jastrubecki, manager of Security students posting an expression of and Parking Services, and Dr. Ben art.” Cecil, dean of the Environment, One of Greg Gibson’s posters on display in the Black Walnut building. On March 15, faculty of Media and the Technology divi- Photo by Anton Mwewa Graphic Design, Journalism and sion. The meeting regarded Gib- New Media Web Design programs son and other students taking the the college for 20 years and he had murals, he just wasn’t predicting pening within the college environ- received an email from Cecil stat- liberty of writing and painting on never encountered something to this. I said I was guilty of being ment. At the time he was seen as ing a meeting March 16 in room Black Walnut’s walls. this extent before. given an inch and taking a mile but the person who brought infl uence S135 of the Simcoe Building from “We’ve heard that there was Gibson says, “First they were I didn’t do anything wrong. I really in what was happening here.” 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. regarding some offensive writing and graph- threatening to call the cops on me, didn’t break any rules.” Gord Hunchak, director of Mar- the incident would be held. ics. Obviously that’s not in keeping saying they could charge me. Bri- Chiki says, “In terms of defend- keting and Communications, says Hunchak says, “It’s an interest- with the college expectations about gitte Chiki was defending me the ing Greg, as director of Student he thinks that there was some avail- ing use of creativity and I think if our property, community and stu- whole time and Mal Woodhouse Services, I am responsible mostly able wall space and Woodhouse it was to stay away from anything dent behaviour,” says Chiki. stood up for me at the meeting. for students’ rights and that they said placing art on the walls was offensive or threatening, it would Woodhouse says he has been at [Mal] did say that we could paint are protected [in] whatever is hap- a good use of that space. “Moving be fi ne.” March 18, 2011 NIAGARA NEWS Page 3 NEWS Graduate establishes unique business By SARAH FERGUSON Staff Writer Many students worry about their future after graduation, but they will fi nd it easier to succeed if they have education and deter- mination. That’s exactly what Stephanie Hansen learned, graduating from Niagara College in 2005. Com- pleting the two-year Graphic De- sign Productions – Art and Design Fundamentals program, she says it was her time here that inspired her to start her own company. Originally based in Grimsby, Ont., and later moving to Hamil- ton, Ont., the company is called Chalkboard Art. She creates custom chalkboard menus and art- work for restaurants. Hansen says the chalkboards include food and drink menus, artwork and even a client’s or company’s logo. “We do complete custom work, so everything is designed to fi t each client.” Stephanie Hansen, shown with some of her creations, is very passionate about art and her business. She says it was her experience at Niagara Graphic design “is the fi rst College that helped her to achieve success. step,” to creating something for a Submitted photo client, says Hansen. “We provide a full-colour layout Hansen says Smith does all the “It [Niagara College] gave me “James taught me the ba- Niagara College was truly amaz- of what the chalkboard will look woodworking and staining and the ability to start and grow my sic fundamentals of draw- ing. It prepared me for the real like before production begins.” creates custom frames for each business while at the same time ing and creating great art.” world in an art and design indus- Other products offered include chalkboard. Some of Hansen’s providing me a stable foundation “I am very passionate about art try, with deadlines and creative “sandwich signs, table-top chalk- previous clients include Los An- of fundamentals which allow me and designing ideas from scratch feedback from other peers and boards and murals.” geles Airport, Brock University to complete even the most compli- to create something I can really being able to put ideas onto paper “Currently we are working on a Café and Godiva Chocolates in cated of tasks.” be proud of.” or computer. Hans Christen Andersen-inspired New York City. She says the teacher who Hansen says she tries to “be “I absolutely love what I do, mural at a Danish park called Sun- “Niagara College, along with “pushed me the most” was James eco-friendly” and “happy about and every day offers new and set Villa. extremely long hours and hard Gielfeldt, head of the Life Draw- life.” exciting challenges. The possibili- “After a few years of doing work, brought me to where I am ing department. She says she supports local art- ties are endless. I am extremely all of this myself, I needed help today.” She learned how to do “His free spirit, talent and moti- ists, trying to outsource any chalk grateful that I am able to do what getting signs out quicker, which everything from layout design to vation really pushed me to become or graphic design work to former I love.” is where my partner and fi ancé the “precise custom artwork” her a better artist and to try different Niagara College students. To learn more about Hansen’s Owen Smith comes in.” clients request. mediums and design techniques. “Being a student and learning at work, visit www.chalkboardart.ca.
Students nominated for THE COMMUNITY PAPER OF NIAGARA COLLEGE outstanding journalism awards niagara-news.com • G1 & G2 PREP • National competition selects candidates annually • SINGLE LESSONS AVAILABLE • Two Niagara News reporters vent teen pregnancies and promote DRIVER are nominated for national 2011 the importance of youth. # Canadian Community Newspaper The other two nominees are VOTED 1 Awards. Winners’ fi nal positions from the Southern Alberta Institute 2003 EDUCATION will be announced Friday, April 29, of Technology and the University 2004 in Richmond, B.C. of Alberta. 2005 Second-year Journalism-Print The Canadian Community 2006 student Kayla Cabral, of Ridge- Newspaper Awards, formerly 2007 way, Ont., is nominated for Best Students Sylvie Berry, left, known as the Better Newspapers Campus News Story for her report and Kayla Cabral, right, were Competition, celebrate “excellence 2008 in the Dec. 3, 2010, edition on new nominated for best on-campus in community media.” Ontario legislation banning the use stories in the 2011 Canadian The annual competition, in the 2009 of public funds for corporate lob- Community Newspaper Awards. campus category, recognizes the AAPEX byists. editorial achievements of CCNA Her report brought out the fact ture Story for her report “Inspira- member newspapers across Can- 2010 DRIVING ACADEMY Niagara College had used lob- tion for young mothers,” which ran ada in journalism schools and the byists in its successful efforts to in the March 19, 2010, edition. post-secondary press. secure over $90 million in federal Berry, who graduated in April Niagara News previously won 8 LOCATIONS and provincial government funds 2010, profi led a Niagara College BNC campus awards in 2009, to expand its Welland and Niagara- offi ce administration student who placing third in each of Outstand- Register TO SERVE YOU on-the-Lake campuses with state- overcame her troubled youth as ing Campus Newspaper, Best • FONTHILL • WELLAND of-the-art facilities. a high school dropout and single News Story, Best Feature Story On Line! • NIAGARA FALLS • ST. CATHARINES mother of two children, returning The other two nominees in the categories and second for Best & view upcoming • PORT COLBORNE • FORT ERIE category are from the University to school as a “non-traditional Photograph. course dates of Alberta and the University of learner.” In 2008 it placed second in each • BEAMSVILLE • GRIMSBY Toronto. The student went on to create of Outstanding Campus News- Sylvie Berry, of Brantford, Ont., Postponing Parenting Until You’re paper, Best News Story and Best aapexdriving.com is nominated for Best Campus Fea- Ready, a speakers’ bureau to pre- Feature Story categories. Page 4 NIAGARA NEWS March 18, 2011 EDITORIAL
THE COMMUNITY PAPER OF NIAGARA COLLEGE
Editor: Shaylene Abbey Associate Editor: Jeff Blay Assistant Editor: Jesse Carter Photo Editor: Shawn Smith
Publisher: Annette Hemerik Program Co-ordinator: Paul Dayboll Managing Editor: Peter Conradi Associate Managing Editor: Phyllis Barnatt Editorial Consultant: Nancy Geddie, Gary Erb Photography Consultant: Dave Hanuschuk Technology Support: Kevin Romyn B2, 300 Woodlawn Rd., Welland, Ont. L3C 7L3 Telephone: (905) 735-2211 Fax: (905) 736-6003 Editorial email: [email protected] Illustration by Toni Karan Advertising email: [email protected] Don’t stress success
2006 WINNER Dr. Seuss knew what he was many reasons. As stated on the include being honest about BNC2009 talking about when he wrote website Psychologytoday.com, accomplishments achieved, Oh, the Places You’ll Go! many people are conditioned accepting recognition/ Published in 1990, it is an to believe being successful compliments with an open mind ode to graduates of all ages, involves taking risks, so they try and heart and giving credit to from kindergarten to university. to “not get hopes up” and so that others for their achievements. A story of a journey down the leads them to disappointment. As students, it is our job to Social media: roads of success, it depicts the Some may believe they are not take the world’s wheel when decisions one will make, the deserving of success, while we graduate – and sitting in that highs and lows one will endure others are afraid of competition, driver’s seat can be frightening and the ways in which life can envy and change. – but the feeling of getting all a fact of life be a “great balancing act.” The website Livestrong.com you have ever wanted out of life As fun and child-like as most lists other feelings associated shouldn’t be. of his works are, this Seuss with this fear, such as the belief This spring, thousands of Embracing the power book seems to hit the nail that success is an end, and even graduates will toss their Oxford square on the noggin. Life is a though we may accomplish all caps in the air to celebrate their balancing act, and success can we set out to, we will not be educational success and look of the world wide web be tumultuous to achieve and happy once we reach our goal. to the rise of a new sun on the The era of social media is based products and services), scary to attain. This response can lead to lack horizon of life. rather young, but there is no time spent on social networking The fear of success is real. It of effort, underachievement and Seuss couldn’t have said it doubt it is continuing to grow has grown 93 per cent since can prevent us from grasping loss of motivation. better: “And will you succeed? rapidly in today’s online world. 2006. This means that roughly our goals and cause us to Overcoming this fear requires Yes! You will, indeed! (98 and It started with websites such 32 per cent of United States sabotage our future. a change in thinking and ¾ per cent guaranteed.)” as MySpace, YouTube and Internet users’ time online is People fear success for behaviour. Simple methods SHAYLENE ABBEY blogging outlets, and over the spent communicating. past 10 years, social media The debate continues as to outlets have taken over the web. whether this increased online With the major social usage by the current generation networking sites such as is a negative or positive, but as Be careful what you say Facebook and Twitter gaining an avid social media user, I fi nd she was “glamorizing” it. virtue. They seem to think they more popularity, entrepreneurs this new technology to be more “It’s a problem because she’s are the moral compasses and we have even taken it to the next than useful. CHRIS about seven months pregnant, it’s should be following them. level by creating sites such as It seems as if our elder FORTIER her fi rst pregnancy, and she and the Are they right? Only if you’re Workopolis and Linkedin. generation gets frightened by baby’s father aren’t married, and looking at what side of the political Columnist before two billion people, Natalie spectrum they’re on. These innovative new sites this new path of communication, Portman says, ‘Oh I want to thank The fact is that there are no right allow people to use social but as we grow as humans, my love and he’s given me the or wrong answers these days. media as a place to put their technology grows with us. most wonderful gift.’ Many, many years ago, people resumé and seek employment. It’s the cycle of life, and He didn’t give her the most were having children without a However, just as you sign up whether or not it is appropriate In my opinion, the Republican wonderful gift, which would be a binding marriage. for the latest trending network to increase your time staring at Party in the U.S. is ripe comedic wedding ring.” I am sure that cavemen procre- on the web, it seems that yet a computer screen is one thing, fodder. People with traditional family ated without a legal ceremony, These wacky right-winged goof- values will more than likely agree unless bonking your potential mate another website surfaces that but when it comes to the benefi ts balls say some of the most ridicu- with this, and it is a valid point. over the head with a club consti- social media gurus jump on. one can take from these new lous things, and they get away with What Huckabee fails to recall is tutes a binding relationship. Although each outlet has and useful social media tools, it, too. that key members of his own party Morally, we live in a time when a slightly different use, the the possibilities are endless. I want the ability to do that. are doing the same thing. things are a little greyer than in various websites simply give This leaves people of all ages Case in point: Mike Huckabee. Look at “everybody’s favourite years past. people an additional account to with a choice: embrace this The former Governor of Arkan- Republican,” Sarah Palin. The idea of having good values check while surfi ng the web. technology and accept that this sas recently slammed actress Nata- Huckabee failed to mention is commendable, but people like Palin’s daughter, Bristol, who had Huckabee and Palin take these In a recent study by Netpop is the way the world is going or lie Portman on conservative talk show host Michael Medved’s show a child out of wedlock with her ideas to an uncomfortable extreme. Research (a full-service market boycott a useful tool to build on Feb. 28. high school lover, Levi Johnston. Perhaps they should focus on be- research fi rm based in San your future. He took a shot at Portman’s preg- People like Huckabee and Palin ing better people rather than trying Francisco focusing on web- JEFF BLAY nancy outside of wedlock, saying paint themselves as paragons of to tell us what is right or wrong. March 18, 2011 NIAGARA NEWS Page 5 OPINION Opinions aren’t only Th e caf vs. The Core for creative writers Th e Core leading place to eat at NC one of the best parts of being a and actually enjoying yourself One might think it’s the tip as- journalist. Surely there is nothing compared to the old cafeteria? pect or that your food is brought to ANTON better than throwing your story JESSE Maybe it’s the beer or maybe the you at the The Core. MWEWA or opinion in the face of a reader CARTER pool tables. Maybe that is one reason, and without an immediate backlash. Maybe it’s the view or the TVs perhaps The Core’s staff has not Columnist Once you have dotted your i’s and Columnist that are there to watch. Maybe it’s had to deal with Niagara College crossed your t’s, or performed the even the prices – or all these rea- students as long. digital equivalent thereof, your sons – but it usually comes down Are the students that bad though? words are on their way to an audi- to service, and The Core has that Are they their own problems, igno- ence of thousands of people, most in spades. rance begetting ignorance? Creative writing, in my opinion, of whom unfortunately prove to Eating at the college cafeteria vs. Ignore all reasons that were pre- No. is one of the best forms of enter- be either incapable of or too indif- The Core was always a big debate viously put forth and just consider Although the reason is unclear, tainment. What could possibly ferent to reply. It’s like being the ... but not if you’ve experienced the people whom you are actu- what is clear is maybe the cafeteria be better than creating your own only guy at a political rally with a eating at both. ally interacting with and how they management might want to start worlds, characters and realities? It megaphone. Have you ever sat in the cafeteria combine with what is available. taking notes not only on some of is the best form of escapism. Personally, I enjoy being that and had lunch, been served by the This is not to say that ladies of the prices and marketing of The Journalism, however, is differ- guy and I’m sure we all do – or Aramark ladies and pretty much the cafeteria are doing a bad job, Core but also on the service being ent. There’s no escapism here, just rather, “we all would.” Either gone on with your day? because they’re not. provided. solid, hard facts. way, everyone likes to be heard, But the times when you eat in They work hard and everyone is Start with Wendy. Her service Believe it or not, we journalists accepted and understood by every- The Core, the new cafeteria, don’t thankful for that. Why does it just alone is reason to go back to The are not even allowed to make our one else. It’s human nature to seek you fi nd yourself staying longer feel different then? Core. solid, hard facts sound interest- acceptance. While some of us are ing. Sure, we can use our words privileged to have our photograph to create powerful, meaningful next to our name in a fancy box sentences and sound as if we know that says “Columnist,” it doesn’t what we’re talking about (both of mean we should be the only ones which we usually do), but we can’t delivering opinion. take the liberties one does in cre- I’m not saying enrol in jour- ative writing. nalism school – we barely have For example, we can’t say U.S. enough job opportunities as it is – President Barack Obama looked but if you have a voice, use it. Start sad and speculate why after his a blog or get a Twitter account. State of the Union address, any Don’t sit back and let us do the more than we can blatantly bash talking for you all the time. Some- celebrities and political fi gures – times, information is much better unless, of course, we work at Fox straight out of the horse’s mouth News. (no offence). The closest thing to creative Who knows, maybe someday writing a real journalist will do is you’ll be the sane equivalent of TV write a column, much like the one pundit Glen Beck or “maybe I’m you’re reading. Even then, things running for U.S. President” Sarah sometimes get lost in the editing Palin. If you feel like being one of process and you could possibly the people who enjoys challenging be reading something so altered it opinionated loudmouths or if you doesn’t carry the column’s original just want to yell at me for daring to mood and concept. assume you’re not, drop me a line The old cafeteria (left) has fewer resources than The Core (right) off ers. Columns, in my opinion, are at [email protected]. Photo by Jesse Carter Contemporary music gone downhill White Stripes give promise to future of music indusry I started listening on my drive kick-start change. The White Stripes have given home and was instantly over- Has creativity, the driving force me hope. ANTHONY whelmed by the intensity of the ‘The music was in music, hit a brick wall? Modern I overlooked the band because of ALTOMARE band. The music was edgy, simple music has adopted a less-is-more hits I believed sounded too com- and most of all, attention-demand- edgy, simple and approach: less talent, and more mercial. Digging a little deeper, I Columnist ing, exactly the way rock ‘n’ roll artists to fi ll the voids left by short- discovered something I missed. was meant to be. most of all, atten- lived acts of the day. That album made me realize mu- As a musician, it’s embarrass- Artists are thrust so quickly into sic, even in its present state, stands ing to admit I can’t recall the last tion-demanding.’ the spotlight the public barely has a chance of having some promise album I bought prior to this. In my time to learn their name, let alone for the future. opinion, nothing any artist has put song titles. Music needs a jump start in the A few days ago I purchased my out in the last fi ve years or so was Singles are pushed too strongly; worst way possible. fi rst new CD in years. worthy of my money. albums are a thing of the past. The industry is one giant mass It’s new for my collection, if Music has become watered times I hear the redundant guitar Technology and money-hungry of mundane, over-produced, over- you consider 1999 new. down and bland. parts of Chuck Berry’s Johnny B. corporate empires have stripped promoted artists. It has strayed far As I wandered HMV’s aisles of Long gone are the days when Goode or Led Zeppelin’s Black the emotion and truth past musi- from its humble beginnings. Music new releases looking for something mainstream music consisted of Dog or the overplayed Jimi Hen- cians brought to the industry. is an art form. It should not be the to grab my attention, I stumbled artists who produced quality mate- drix classic, Purple Haze, they still Now anyone can save money for quiet background soundtrack to across the bargain rack. rial with purpose. Modern music give me chills. DJ equipment and crank out an our lives. It defi nes who we are as There, on top of the pile, was is so mass-produced and generic, In 10 years, history will forget album’s worth of house music in people. the White Stripe’s self-titled debut it is often diffi cult to distinguish so-called artists such as Lady one day. That drive home was short-lived. album. between artists. It seems the public Gaga, Deadmau5 or Nickelback When was the last time I sat and I turned around, drove back to the Bored with wandering, I decided is willing to sit back and be spoon- who provide us with nothing but listened to an album from begin- store and purchased the entire to purchase the album. fed by corporate labels. catchy mind-numbing beats. ning to end? White Stripes discography. It’s the best decision I’ve made Music has lost the lasting power I am not pessimistic; I am beg- Until a few days ago, I can’t I havn’t turned down the volume musically in a long while. it once had. No matter how many ging for new material that might remember. since. Page 6 NIAGARA NEWS March 18, 2011 NEWS Prevent cruelty to animals SPCA provides a safe house for mistreated pets By ANTON MWEWA derstand why some people do what Staff Writer they do. The only way anyone Imagine a deer, its exhausted can exist here is by dwelling on legs fl ailing, struggling to stay the rewards and not the negatives afl oat in the cold, murky waters of because, if you do, they consume the Welland Canal. You know the you. deer will drown if not rescued, and “Every employee has to get to you know the animal’s life is, at that brick wall and get by it. Each that moment, in your hands. one of us struggles with that every The employees of the Welland day. It takes a little chunk out of and District Humane Society don’t you constantly and sometimes you have to imagine that hypothetical wonder how many chunks there situation because, like so many are to take.” others, it has and continues to be As Gaboury says, for every their reality. bad thing there are 10 good ones. “No one realizes what goes on Successes such as the number of in the shelter until you get into it,” animals the Society manages to says Ted Bettle, who has been the fi nd loving homes for – more than shelter’s manager since 2005. 1,000 – and the everyday triumphs, The Welland and District Hu- such as the love a dog receives mane Society, just one of such or- when it is taken out for a walk by ganisations in Ontario and around a volunteer, are the lifeblood of the the world, has a history more than Humane Society. half a century old. Existing solely Whether they are out chasing on charitable donations and the as- llamas down Highway 3 in the sistance of volunteers, the Humane summer or pulling animals that Society fi rst opened its doors about have fallen through thin ice in the The SPCA has the facilities to house 40 dogs and 50 cats at any given time. The animals receive constant care 55 years ago, and today covers winter, the work being done by the and attention from employees and volunteers. six municipalities: Haldimand, Society’s employees is important Photo by Anton Mwewa Pelham, Port Colborne, Wainfl eet, and, at the end of the day, life- Welland, and West Lincoln. It has that their needs are fully met. “The choices we have to make learning not to get connected to the changing. 19 employees. Dogs and cats are always avail- are diffi cult ones, but at least we animals is a way of dealing with it. For more information on adop- The Society’s mission, accord- able for adoption, with fees set at are here for them.” “It’s an emotional job,” he says. tions or donations, contact the ing to its website, is to encourage $270 for dogs, and $190 for cats. And “here for them” the shelter “[We are] not unlike people in Welland shelter at 60 Provincial St., responsible animal ownership and The fee isn’t for profi t, but cov- is. Last year, the Society received the medical industry or the EMS 1-888-222-0568, the Port Colborne care and to provide leadership and ers all the expenses the Society about 7,000 calls regarding the [Emergency Medical Services]. shelter at 1080 Elm St., on 905-834- guidance in the humane treatment incurs, such as spaying and neu- safety and wellbeing of animals, You see a lot of horrendous cir- 6634, or visit the website at www. and welfare of all animals. Not tering, and other procedures such and it responded to more than cumstances and you just can’t un- wellandhumanesociety.org. surprisingly, this isn’t an easy task. as vaccination. 5,000 of them. That means offi cers Bettle, who has worked with Tammy Gaboury, an adoption were dispatched more than 5,000 animals before as the owner of a co-ordinator at the shelter, says the times, quite a staggering number. Court update on incident at college Pet Valu pet-food store, knows the job is demanding, both physically Besides the obvious fi ght for By SARAH FERGUSON Corey Gamble is charged with diffi culties fi rst-hand. and emotionally, but they do it be- animal rights and law enforcement, Staff Writer one count of robbery and one count “People don’t realize it’s a dif- cause they “love the animals.” another integral part of the Society A 24-year-old Port Colborne of sexual assault in an incident fi cult job,” he says. “I tell that to Gaboury turned her love of is education. Bettle says the Society man will appear in Ontario Provin- occurring at Niagara College’s everyone I hire, and they come back animals into a full-time job. After tries hard to increase educational cial Court in Welland on Wednes- Welland campus, in the Black Wal- to me later and say, ‘I didn’t get volunteering at the shelter while support, and that includes activi- day, March 23, at 9 a.m. nut building, on Jan. 17, 2011. it, but I know what you’re talking in high school, she managed to ties such as speaking at schools, about now.’” become an offi cial member of the daycares and summer camps about THANK YOU From rescuing pets from abusive Society’s team. That was in 1994. pet owner responsibilities, and THANK YOU homes, to attending court trials and “How would I describe it [the even attending birthday parties on preparing reports, offi cers of the job]? Frustrating, rewarding – I request. THANK YOU Humane Society are always kept could throw so many words out While the everyday physical THANK YOU on their toes. With the facilities to there,” she says. “I think you get a tasks are challenging, they pale THANK YOU house about 40 dogs and 50 cats, the different feel for mankind. Some- in comparison to the potential Society always ensures the animals times, it’s astonishing what people emotional stress the Society’s THANK YOU receive the attention they need and can do to animals. employees can endure. Bettle says THANK YOU supporting your THANK YOU THANK YOU Niagara College THANK YOU Community Paper THANK YOU For many years Avondale stores have THANK YOU generously distributed THANK YOU 2,400 copies of each Niagara News issue across the Niagara Region. THANK YOU THANK YOU Avondale demonstrates how good corporate citizens support THANK YOU student learning. THANK YOU The staff of theNiagara News THANK YOU wish to thank Avondale for its THANK YOU past, current and future assistance. THANK YOU THANK YOU Please support Avondale Food Stores. Adoption co-ordinator Tammy Gaboury, and manager Ted Bettle are deeply involved with the daily THANK YOU For additional sale items, please check: operations at the Welland and District Humane Society. THANK YOU www.avondalestores.com Photo by Anton Mwewa THANK YOU March 18, 2011 NIAGARA NEWS Page 7 NEWS Carousel Players keep magic of theatre alive Local group encourages children to ‘let their imagination run wild’
By EDEN ARMSTRONG entertainment. must rely on sound because the Staff Writer Carousel Players also rents out standard elementary school gym- A child’s imagination can run the courthouse to other theatre nasium isn’t equipped for hanging wild and free immersed in a play companies who need space to prac- spotlights and trick doors. by St. Catharines theatre group tise and perform. “With limited lighting, sound is Carousel Players. This season, companies such as important,” says Gardner. For the past 39 years, the group the Essential Collective Theatre, Donna Vandecoevering orga- has been bringing the best of the- Lyndesfarne Theatre Projects, Ni- nizes the show schedules for each atre to children everywhere. agara Dance Company, Stray The- play and starts planning at the be- Based in downtown St. atre, Suitcase in Point and Theatre ginning of the school year for plays Catharines, Carousel Players is Beyond Words will use the space for that happen throughout the year. a non-profi t theatre organization performances. With calendars hung strategi- that brings the story to you. The As you walk into the old court- cally on the wall for each play, offi ces are in the old courthouse, house, you see people are busy Vandecoevering seems to have which adds to the ambiance and with preparations for the play scheduling nailed. the magic. The Remarkable Flight of Marnie The company’s fee to come to With productions for different McPhee. General Manager Jane a school is $550 per performance, age groups, the company travels Gardner and Artistic Director which is sometimes subsidized by to Ontario schools performing for Pablo Felices-Luna talk quickly the school and parent councils. children from junior kindergarten on confi rmation of set design and For students who would like to to Grade 10. scheduling. With one glance, you see the performance downtown, $5 The company also puts on see the set: a complete stage, a few will get you in. performances at the downtown props and a computer to provide “The arts are so important, espe- theatre, which seats 125, for those sound effects. You wouldn’t think cially for children. It lets them be who want to see the performance, this could all fi t into one van. creative and lets their imagination such as home-schooled children. With only a van to carry all the run wild,” says Gardner. Each play has a theme and les- set and props, the performers are Carousel Players also runs a sons to be learned, and some even also in charge of set-up and behind- theatre camp during the summer invite interactive play. Whether the-scene action. for children ages fi ve to 14 who the show focuses on friendship A 45-minute assembly and disas- want to engage in theatre activities. and imagination or teamwork sembly of the set is crucial when Six different one-week camps offer and kindness, Carousel Players there are two performances a day, children something unique. encourages everyone young and sometimes in different parts of the Over 100 children turn out for Sarah English plays Marnie and Andrea Scott plays her mother in The old to learn something from their region. the summer camp, full of drama Remarkable Flight of Marnie McPhee by Daniel Karasik. performances. A play will tour for fi ve or six and art led by theatre professionals. Photo by Joe Lapinski Every year, 25,000 children wit- weeks and then the company “We have some children who ness the thought-provoking, enter- members will start preparing and are too old for the camps now taining plays. rehearsing for the next one. volunteer so that they can still be Schools around the Niagara The company transforms gym- part of something they love,” says region invite the company to per- nasiums to become the scene for a Gardner. form and, because each play caters brief time of magic. For those interested in a fun to a specifi c age group, everyone With little more than an empty family event or the summer camps, has the opportunity to enjoy the stage and some props, the group visit www.carouselplayers.com. Salty snack is still a favourite IT’S LIKE after more than 80 years GETTING By NOKNOY XAYASANE Matthew Andrade, 21, of Cam- VIP STATUS Staff Writer Find the complete recipe bridge, Ont., says if he could de- You either have a sweet tooth or online at sign a potato chip fl avour it would a salty tooth. niagara-news.com be chocolate because “What is the Your diploma could get you the VIP status you Unfortunately, for those with world without chocolate chips?” need to transfer straight into year two or three a sweet tooth, this article isn’t Amanda Edridge, 21, of Ham- for you. One thing is certain: it is the ilton, says her fl avour would be of a related Humber degree program. March 14 marked National Po- Western civilization’s No.1 snack cucumber tzatziki. “I mix the two tato Chip Day, or if you’re from food. together with popcorn and it tastes England, New Zealand or Ireland, Crum never patented his inven- amazing.” it’s National “Crisps” Day. tion. In 1932, Herman Lay, of Alexandra Salmeron, 19, of Now, whom do we have to thank Nashville, Tenn., founded one Cambridge says, “I purposely for bringing this glorious, salty and of the most popular potato chip look for the wish chips. I eat those crispy delight into our lives? brands today, Lay’s. fi rst and always make a wish. You The man’s name is George Lay’s was the fi rst successful should take every opportunity you Crum, who was a chef at Saratoga national brand of potato chips. can to wish.” Springs, N.Y. Moon Lake Lodge Steven Diplock, 18, of St. Catha- Greg Otterbein, 19, of Kitchener, resort on Aug. 24, 1853. rines, says he prefers Ruffl es over Ont., says he used to make wishes Although there are varying Lay’s because “the waves [are] on wish chips, adding “defi nitely stories about how the potato chip better for dipping and they don’t did as a kid and I always wished I came to be, stories like Crum get- crumble.” could fl y.” ting upset with a picky restaurant According to European Snacks After Crum’s invention and be- eater who kept sending their plate Association, potato chips are the fore Lay’s entrepreneuring skills, back because the potato slices were largest single category in the Euro- people have been making their too thick to a story about his sister, pean Union savory snacks market own potato chips. Kate (Specks) Wick, accidently accounting for about 550,000 tons. To celebrate National Potato dropping a thin-sliced potato into Every year United Kingdom Chip Day, be sure to enjoy a nice Find out if you are eligible. hot fat and Crum having to fi sh it farmers grow 6.5 million tons of bag, but why stop there when you out and enjoying the taste. potatoes. can make your own potato chips? humber.ca/transfer Page 8 NIAGARA NEWS March 18, 2011 NEWS Japan struggles in crisis Th ousands missing, homeless and exposed to radiation after massive earthquake and tsunami Niagara back home. I heard people who sumers to help deal with a power radiation on the human body, the have a house in Tokyo used Twit- shortage because nuclear electric government has asked people to ter and invited people to stay the power generations and thermal stay in their houses in a 30-kilome- College night. ” power stations are damaged. The ters radius. Most trains are still stopped. Japanese are trying to save power The Japanese military want to Saori Yoshida, 24, of Chiba, says, supports “During the major earthquake, I couldn’t stand up. The ground By YUKI KAJI shook destructively. Even now, Japan Staff Writer people can’t sleep well every night People worldwide have joined because of minor earthquakes.” relief together to help victims of the After the major earthquake hap- earthquake and tsunami that devas- pened, over 5-magnitude earth- tated northeastern Japan on Friday, quakes happened more than 170 Niagara College is March 11. times in East Japan until March 13. reaching across the world The 9-magnitude earthquake The initial earthquake happened to help its Japanese stu- and tsunami killed 4,277 people. near Sendai, and huge aftershock dents contact friends and Only 40 per cent of the dead have earthquakes happened around Ni- family affected by the identifi ed. There are 8,194 miss- gata and Nagano. Around Tokyo, recent earthquake and ing people and 430,000 people are people started to buy food and tsunami. staying in evacuation centres. drinks for the emergency because There are 11 Japanese The earthquake occurred when the government has announced English for Academic the Pacifi c tectonic plate thrust another big earthquake, more than Preparation students and below the North American plate 80 a 7-magnitude could happen. 28 Japanese post-second- miles offshore and 15.5 miles un- Shinichiro Tojo, 24, a university ary students registered derwater in an area called the Japan student, of Chiba, says, “Water, in- here. Trench off the coast in the Pacifi c stant foods and radios are sold out After the last magnitude Ocean. The pressure of this sudden in many convenience stores and nine earthquake hit Japan seabed lift generated the tsunami. supermarkets around Tokyo.” last Friday, the Internation- Yoshie Yokosawada, 22, of Kuji In disaster areas, gas, water, al Department contacted City, Iwate, says, and light are still stopped in many all its Japanese students “We have to wait for water sup- places, and many people can’t use individually. ply. We don’t have food. I looked phones. Moreover, the government Shawna Luey, an inter- about food in my city a day. For- can’t confi rm the safety of many national student adviser, tunately, I could get a loaf of bread people. says that support is in place at a small bakery today. We want As a result, on mixi, the biggest for students to talk with to use stove but no heating oil. We social network service in Japan, us- their family and friends. try to share everything in our com- ers have made special community Yuki Kaji, a second- munity.” pages. These pages are divided by year Journalism student, It is winter in Kuji City and the cities that suffered terrible dam- Designed by Yuki Kaji is spearheading setting up minimum temperature was minus age. Many people have written donation jars or boxes at four degrees Celsius on March 13. messages to fi nd their family and cafeterias, pubs and the In- In Los Angeles, Lina Ito, 22, a friends, and other people have sent in all parts of the country. drop water on the plant from heli- ternational Departments at college student there, says, “I could comforting words to victims, on Big convenience store brands, copters, but they abandon the plan both campuses from next not reach my friend who lives in these pages. such as 7-11 with about 7,200 because of high radiation on March week until the end of this Fukushima, which was very dan- Reia Sai, 24, of Chiba, says, “I stores, Lawson’s 9,600 stores, 16. semester. gerous for two days, but I felt it have watched TV news about vic- FamilyMart’s 8,200 stores, Circle Blackouts happen frequently, The department and Kaji was like a year. On March 12, my tims. Japanese identity really keeps K Sunkus’ 6,200 stores, have so workers can’t run the repair are planning a social fund- friend sent email to me that she is order. No one cries and screams. turned off the lights of their name smoothly. Workers have tried to raiser event on April 19. OK and fi nally she could eat two They just keep quiet and patient at boards at night and control the air repair the plant. The proceeds will be pieces of rice bowl and drink green evacuation centres. There is no riot conditioners in the daytime. Some workers were exposed to donated to the aid funds in tea. There are some ways that I can and robbery. They stand in line to According to Lawson, stores can radiation and were sent to hospital, Japan in Niagara College’s help Japan from here in the United get a food ration. Japanese people cut 50 per cent of electricity in day- complaining of nausea. name. States. I keep sending email to my are strong.” time. Other companies followed to University student Mina Yoko, Upcoming details will friend, hoping my little words can A beverage company, Suntory save on electricity. 19, of Gunma, says, “Now things be posted on Niagara news, help her to stand up.” Foods Limited, provided drinks In addition, on March 13, we can do are to pray, to donate http://www.niagara-news. The earthquake affected Tokyo free from about 3,600 vending ma- the government decided to stop money, to make blood donations com, and Blackboard and too. All trains and subways are chines on the fi rst earthquake day. providing electrical power from and to save on electricity with a Facebook of Niagara Col- stopped. Business people couldn’t At that time, by just pushing the March 14 onward. It divided the full effort. And we hope to help as lege. go back to their homes the day bottoms of the machines, people nation into fi ve groups. Electrical many people as possible.” There will also be tables of the earthquake. Electricity has could get the beverages out. power is provided on a rotating Ayumi Sugiyama, 24, who works set up at both campuses been cut as well to reduce the strain The food processing company, basis for three hours two times a at Narita International Airport, in the cafeteria next week on the grid. Nissin Food Products Co., decided day in nine provinces in the Kanto says, “Many foreign rescue teams 12:30 to 1:30 every day In Japan, Ryo Masaki, 24, a to provide one million instant region around Tokyo. have arrived. I’m moved to tears for more information. university student, says, “After the noodle cups to victims. Other com- The government plans to do this by foreign people who are worried After the next week, volun- earthquake, I had been on a train panies also have sent clothes and for a month. about Japan and by the support teers will promote and ask to wait to recover for two hours in food and asked for donations. On Sunday, Sai says, “To save from other countries.” funds every Wednesday in Tokyo. It didn’t run the night. Across the country, however, electricity, we turned lights off Until March 16, 116 countries the cafeteria at 12:30 to Although many public places parts of highways are shut down now although the planned blackout and regions and 28 organizations 1:30 until the end of this such as schools and city buildings and most trains are still stopped. has not started yet.” have announced to support Japan. semester. were released to stay at night, many Oil companies don’t have a method In Fukushima, the nuclear power Yuki Kaji is a second-year Niagara College’s people couldn’t stay there because to provide gasoline to gas stands, plant has released radiation because Journalism program student from homepage has added a link they were full. I know some offi ce so most gas stands are closed. it was damaged by the earthquake. Japan. He reports his family and to the Red Cross website workers bought bicycles to get The government has asked con- To minimize the from risk high friends there are safe. for online donations. March 18, 2011 NIAGARA NEWS Page 9 NEWS Canadian author shares experience
By JESSE CARTER what I did.” Staff Writer Ward says he wrote his story Have you ever wondered about from a fi rst-person’s beginner monks and Buddhism, Eastern account and his six-week stay at culture and what’s it like on the the monastery had seemed like a other side of the world? If so, lifetime. be ready to have some questions Shaving his head at 26, Ward answered in this rare look into a says, was a telling experience Canadian author’s account fi rst- and it taught him to not be so at- hand as he visits Niagara College tached to his personal appearance. for an author’s reading on March Although his hairline has begun to 21 at Welland campus’s Learning thin now, he says he learned a long commons. time ago Canadians can get stuck Growing up in Ontario, Tim in the wrong mindset. Ward, 52, was curious about what “It’s weird to be totally bald life was like on the other side of the when you are 26. Now that I’m world and how most of the people 52 and rapidly thinning on top, on the planet really live. I’m glad I had that experience Although raised a Christian, he when young. The monks say that says he was drawn to Buddhist hair is an attachment. We want areas and Buddhists’ commitment to look good. So cut it off, [and] to peace, using peace of mind. don’t think about being attrac- Spending six years in Asia, tive. It’s very foreign to our way partly as a journalist for the CBC, of thinking.” Ward says he got to live in slums What Ward took home from the and remote villages and mountain experience he has put in his book, temples. and he says he felt he came close “It taught me that the way we to what Buddha actually taught, live in Canada is just one way, and which was the impermanence of ours is not necessarily superior.” existence, the illusion of self and Wat Pah Nanachat was one of the fact of human suffering. several monasteries he stayed in “I did not fi nd a lot of joy in the over the course of two years of monastery, not a lot of compassion travel. for the world outside. I didn’t want “I heard about this special to live locked away in a place rela- place from a monk in Bangkok. tively insulated from suffering. It’s in a jungle in the northeast, “The monks said you can never near Laos. What’s unique about it reach Nirvana in the outside world. Author Tim Ward in the phakao robes of a “temporary” monk on the balconey of his hut in the jungle. is that half the monks are West- It’s too distracting. But to me, what Submitted photo erners, and it runs in Thai and was the point of serenity if you just English, so you don’t have to stayed in a monastery?” Welland and Waterloo, Wards says Life lessons come by experienc- “I’m glad I took some things master Thai language to join. In- To fi nd out more about his tale he is also visiting Buddhist stud- ing other cultures and none more with me from the monastery: the stead, outsiders can immediately you can come to the live reading, ies classes at the University of important than the practice of ability to breathe deep and be at be integrated into actual rigorous on March 21 or visit Ward’s web- Toronto, McMaster University in peace and tranquility. peace in the present moment, the Buddhist practice just by show- site at www.timwardsbooks.com. Hamilton and maybe the Univer- Ward was happy to take some of ability to suffer and then let go, ing up and asking to stay. That’s Making a tour around Niagara, sity of Waterloo. those ideals back with him. and accept life just as it is.”
THE COMMUNITY PAPER OF NIAGARA COLLEGE College off ers new library resources niagara-news.com By JESSE CARTER faculty to browse guides alpha- available and they’re willing to Staff Writer betically, by subject, or by program put the time in.” What do you do when you need name. Drop-in research tutorials are also specifi c research for your course? Once you have selected the dis- available weekly at either campus. Are there options available and cipline you want, you then come to With these tutorials, Brown says, people who can help you get the a page with all academic resources the staff is hoping to give the information you need? The answer you could need related to the spe- students the means to use the new is yes, and the new sources for in- cifi c program. service themselves. formation are available for Niagara Brown says the staff has “honed “We hope to pass on researching College students. down” the information to best suit skills and strategies to students so The Niagara College Librar- what is needed in each course or they can best utilize their library ies has introduced new Subject discipline. resources and further their aca- Guides, available on-line at the With an introduction in the fi rst demic study.” library webpage, www.niagara- tab, there are several other tabs Begun on Feb. 24, the service college.ca/library. These guides with other means of delivering does not require signing up. Just are now available for all Ni- the information, from books and show up at the allotted times and agara Campus college students DVDs to journals and databases. the help is there. Located in the and faculty on both campuses. The new links give you any means existing Research Training Room Geoff Brown, library technician of receiving and exploring the li- at either campus, library research for eResources, was able to take brary’s resources. specialists can answer all ques- a minute and explain the research The process in each tab is a se- tions. additions. ries of links with titles regarding At the Welland campus, the ser- What are these new tools and what is available on the website or vice starts at 11:30 a.m. and runs how can they help you? to other related ideas. to 12:20 p.m. every Tuesday, and First is the Subject Guides. Now Lynden Lockhart, a student of from 2:30 p.m. till 3:20 p.m. every on the NC Libraries webpage, the Recreation and Leisure Servic- Thursday at the Niagara-on-the- http://www.niagaracollege.ca/ es program, says although he may Lake campus. library/, you can look under the not be able to make it to the tutori- For more information, visit research tab and see the addition of als, the idea of a specifi c program the blog at www.libraryblog. the link Subject Guides. guide online and the availability of niagaracollege.ca and look for After clicking on it, you will a specialist option is useful. tutorial posters for scheduled come to a search Subject Guide “People need questions an- research classes and other access screen that allows students and swered and it’s great that it’s now information. Page 10 NIAGARA NEWS March 18, 2011 NEWS Promoting women’s global business success By KRISTEN SPRUIT Niagara-on-the-Lake campus. Staff Writer Michael Evink, incoming presi- Celebrating economic, political dent for SIFE Niagara, and fi rst- and social achievements of wom- year Sales and Marketing student en since the 1900s, March 8 is a at the Niagara-on-the-Lake cam- day for women worldwide to be pus, says he has learnt “so much applauded, respected and inspired. this year alone.” Now an offi cial holiday in “It’s not about showing up to more than 20 countries including class and going home every day. Afghanistan, China, Russia and It’s about taking those extra hours Cuba, and celebrated by women a day to learn something that can globally, 2011 marked the 100th really pay off in the end.” anniversary of the revered Interna- Evink says he hopes to partici- tional Women’s Day. pate in an international placement Making a difference by think- to work with one of the co-oper- ing globally and acting locally, atives. students at Niagara College are “The powerful international doing their part to make an im- connection these students have pact by implementing the project created with women in develop- Fair Trade Niagara. The project ing countries is a great way to works directly with co-operatives showcase a positive story of what in South Africa, Argentina, Peru, students are doing in Canada to Brazil and Canada to teach women help others in need while also how to be successful entrepre- gaining valuable hands-on experi- neurs and establish sustainable Samantha Hunter, Michael Evink and Sarah Bernard, students at Niagara College, are members in the ence to become future leaders here businesses. Students in Free Enterprise program, which implements various projects on campus, in the community and at home,” says Jaime Szegvary, It is just one of the many proj- internationally. communications consultant for the ects implemented by members of Photo by Kristen Spruit charitable organization Advanc- Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE) ing Canadian Entrepreneurship at Niagara College, a program Commerce and Global Develop- “They all took it in and really able to function without outside (ACE), under which SIFE Niagara that empowers students to create ment student and project manager wanted to make sure they under- assistance once the training is operates. economic opportunities in their for Fair Trade Niagara. stood so they could implement complete. ACE works with more than 50 communities by teaching others She travelled to South Africa for the marketing initiatives that Fair Trade Niagara regularly university and college campuses essential business skills, ethics three months in 2009 to work with we’d taught them. They were very imports products from the various across Canada to provide students and environmental sustainability. emerging agricultural and soap- excited to have that assistance be- co-operatives and sells them at lo- the opportunity to apply the in- With 84 active members on the making co-operatives in some of cause they’re not used to it.” cal stores in the region. Products formation they’ve learnt in the SIFE Niagara team and through the poorest areas of the Western In its sixth year of operation, include arts and crafts, jewelry, classroom to real world economic, its partnership with the college’s Cape province, teaching them ba- Fair Trade Niagara has directly scarves, bags and coffee. social and environmental issues International Department, students sic business skills. had an impact on more than “We target a lot of small busi- in their community. Not only is are not only making a difference, “There was an 88 per cent un- 300 individuals, generated over nesses that specialize in Fair Trade, the experience rewarding for the but are also applying skills they’ve employment rate at the time, and $475,000 in economic opportunity crafts and handmade items. That’s students involved, but also it has been taught in the classroom. people were living on less than $2 and increased the awareness of added value to the business and signifi cant benefi ts for them be- “I joined because it was a way a day. A lot of them had never been international co-operatives, result- to the entrepreneurs and creates cause major corporations consider for me to get involved and ap- in a classroom and had never had ing in a 180 per cent increase in sustainable income for both,” says them favourably for recruitment ply the theoretical knowledge a formal style of teaching. It was profi tability. Sarah Bernard, outgoing president once they graduate. I’d learnt in school to real-world beyond them to understand why The program works to create of SIFE Niagara, and graduating For more information about applications,” says Samantha I’d take the time out of my day to independent and sustainable busi- student of the Event Management ACE’s programs, visit www.ace- Hunter, a fourth-year International teach them,” says Hunter. nesses in the home country that are graduate certifi cate program at the canada.ca. The sounds of silence Love the music, prevent the loss By KAYLA CABRAL sphere to the entire event.” I notice that in social situations I Staff Writer She says one of her biggest pet fi nd myself asking people to repeat I heard there was a concert this peeves is earplugs at a concert. things or to speak up.” weekend. Did you? “As much as it would be ben- He says when he is jamming Many people enjoy going to con- efi cial to your hearing to wear ear- with his friends, they turn up the certs, but the ringing in your ears plugs to a concert, I do not see the amp in order to hear the music afterwards can affect you for more point. Why spend all of that money over the loud instruments. He and than just a night. and then miss out the raw sound of his friends don’t wear earplugs Donna Corcoran, audiologist, the show? I understand hearing is a while they play because their mu- says hearing damage is greater vital part of our senses, but I could sic isn’t as loud as the amplifi ers at when you are exposed to a loud not imagine listening to Hey Jude concerts. volume for longer periods of time. with earplugs in.” “There’s something special The ringing in your ears after a Scalzo says she would never stop about going to see your favourite concert is “a sign of damage.” going to concerts but she would band, no matter what the conse- She says musicians can purchase limit the number of times she goes quences,” he says. earplugs specifi cally for them that in order to avoid hearing damage. Courtney Cooke, in the Tourism partly plug ears with a chamber Corcoran says there are safety Management – Business Develop- “that allows sound to come through guidelines for the music industry ment program at NOTL, says she so they can play effectively with but everyone is different when it notices people with earplugs at other people.” comes to an “average volume” that concerts, but she has never worn Natalie Scalzo, 19, a student at is OK. them. Brock University in St. Catharines, Adam Attard, culinary student “My ears sometimes ring after says she enjoys going to concerts, at the Niagara-on-the-Lake cam- concerts, but not all the time.” but when she is at a concert she pus, says he loves music “way too Corcoran says there is a “certain doesn’t “notice the music being much to care” about the effects it amount of prevention” people can loud.” can have on his hearing. take. “The moment the show starts He says the loud music doesn’t She suggests having your ears and that fi rst chord is played, I take affect him until afterwards and checked if you think there is dam- in all aspects of the show as an usually the problem lasts “about age but to still “enjoy your music.” experience, including the volume four hours.” For musicians and music lovers, of the music. To me, it adds atmo- “I do feel it affects my hearing. visit www.hearnet.com. Illustration by Toni Karan March 18, 2011 NIAGARA NEWS Page 11 NEWS Local judoka is good as gold Cody Dwyer represents Ontario at the Canada Games
By SHAWN SMITH I’d do judo.” Staff Writer Motivated by his love of fi ghting Chalk up another martial arts and his desire to someday represent standout for the Niagara region. Canada in the Olympic Games, Cody Dwyer, 18, of Welland, a Dwyer works hard daily to become fi rst-year Police Foundations stu- the best judoka he can be. dent at Niagara College, is a local “I train six days a week,” says judoka who recently travelled to Dwyer. “Four nights are Judo and Halifax, N.S., representing Ontario two nights are either running or in the Canada Games. While there, weight lifting.” Dwyer went 5-1 en route to a gold Four years after beginning his medal in the 90-100 kilogram training, Dwyer is a brown belt weight class. under Master Chuck Lee of the A long-time fan of mixed Welland Judo Club and is the martial arts, Dwyer cited UFC top-ranked Ontario judoka in his Welterweight Champion Georges weight class. This has not come St. Pierre as one of his favourite without hard work, however. It’s fi ghters. the adrenaline rush that motivates “I wanted to do some kind of Dwyer to be the best he can be. combat sport or something, and my “I like the feeling right when mom didn’t want me to do boxing you’re about to throw someone and Cody Dwyer, a fi rst-year Police Foundations student at Niagara College, poses with his gold medal from the because it would knock my brains you know you’ve won,” says Dw- 2011 Canada Games. out,” laughs Dwyer. “So then I said yer. “It’s a huge adrenaline rush.” Photo by Anton Mwewa , " " ! " " # " " " "
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By SHAYLENE ABBEY nity to experience all the diff erent levels of pole dance by either Staff Writer watching or partaking in the events.” Shanyn’s Artistic Strength Studio (SASS) is a fi tness studio for Sheena Winger, 28, started pole dancing for fi tness in January those looking for something diff erent, something challenging 2009, aft er she got married. and something that works. “I was getting really bored of the gym and not seeing results. And it’s all done on a pole. It’s now been over two years and the pole is still my addiction.” Opened in June 2010, SASS is a place where anybody, of any age Winger says she purchased a pole for her home and started or gender, can get a total body workout in a unique way. SASS learning advanced moves and tricks on her own. off ers stretch and conditioning classes alongside pole dance fi t- Aft er a year, she says, she felt she couldn’t learn any more by ness, aerial silk and Lyra (hoop) dance. herself, started searching the Internet and found SASS. Shanyn Pollard is the owner and instructor and says she started “I don’t know if was fate or destiny, but one day I googled ‘On- pole dancing in 2005 aft er the birth of her second child, and she tario pole dancing’ and accidently found a forum on a pole jam is her own walking testimonial of its eff ects. event at a new studio down the street from [where I live.]" “At age 30, aft er having two children, I’m in the best shape of "So I tried out SASS, met Shanyn and now SASS is my second my life.” home. I feel like I am blessed to have found someone who will Pollard says pole dance fi tness is for everyone and the benefi ts teach me at my own level, at the pace I want.” are “endless.” Winger encourages everyone to try pole fi tness. “I’ve had all sizes, shapes and ages come into my studio, and “My 50-year-old mother-in-law tried it out and she loves it. If with persistence and motivation they were able to see results. she can do it, anyone can.” [SASS] is able to give you challenges that are achievable in order SASS is at 687 Barton St. in Stoney Creek off Fruitland Road. to make you feel successful.” Pole jam events are scheduled for March 19 from 5 p.m. until 9 Pollard invites those who want to try pole fi tness to a free class p.m. and April 10 from 2 p.m. until 6 p.m. before committing. As well, SASS hosts “pole jams,” where one A full list of class options and dates is available on their can come and see the action without obligation. website at www.polefi t.ca or call 905-992-9395 for details or to “Pole jams are great for beginners and will give an opportu- register for classes.
Shanyn Pollard, left, and Sheena Winger, right, perform diff erent aerial tricks at SASS studio in Stoney Creek. Photos by Shaylene Abbey Page 14 NIAGARA NEWS March 18, 2011 NEWS Can’t live without family and chocolate By KRISTEN SPRUIT truffl es and chocolates and their Staff Writer chocolate long-stem roses. For most, chocolate is something Typically, the stores are open most delighted in when eaten, but from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., seven days for Cindy and Richard Kiermacz, a week, but on this particular day, their delight comes from giving it they are open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. away. for last-minute shoppers. Owners of the two locations of In their quaint locations, they also Chocolate Etc., the family-owned serve European pastries, specialty and -operated chocolatiers busi- coffees made from a blend of four ness at 100 Welland Ave. and 27 Arabic beans, and gelato (Italian ice James St. in St. Catharines, the cream) in the summer. couple takes pride in creating the As with any small business, fi nest Belgian chocolates. Richard says it can be a challenge “We do have the best chocolate to survive next to the big compa- in North America,” says Richard, nies, but focusing on their relation- in his thick native Polish accent. ship with their customers not only “The most beautiful thing about brings them satisfaction but also is making chocolates is to give what keeps their business strong. the love away with the different “The most rewarding thing chocolate creations. It’s a passion in this business is dealing with and a desire, but there’s always a the people and having the return challenge.” clientele. We love having people Richard and Cindy both grew come in and to be able to see the up in the food industry, Richard in pleasure and the reaction on their Poland and Cindy in the Toronto faces when he [Richard] brings out area. They met in Cindy’s uncle’s their order,” says Cindy. pizzeria and eventually moved Cindy and Richard Kiermacz are the proud owners of their very own tasty and unique chocolate store here Their children, Ola, 17, and Pat- to the Niagara region about nine in St. Catharines. rick, 15, help in the stores, either in years ago. Photo by Kristen Spruit making the chocolate, serving the “You can say food brought us ent-fl avoured, -shaped and -sized says Cindy. Richard also has created a life- customers or wrapping the orders. together,” says Cindy. chocolates on display in their store, Chocolate Etc. also caters to sized scale of the upper torso of a They agree that the customer’s reac- Food has been the focus of their using milk, white and dark choco- individual and special orders and female body from chocolate and tions are the most rewarding part of family’s life for at least the past fi ve late. Having thousands of different can deliver larger orders through what resembled a mountainous the job. Patrick says he’s considered years, when they opened their fi rst moulds in their collection, they the region. A particular extravagant snow-covered region in Europe working in culinary or the arts be- location. Because of the demand, cover many subjects such as music, order Cindy said customers request using chocolate forms, truffl es and cause “it’s a lot of fun.” they opened their second location sports, animals and transportation. for weddings, anniversaries and other sweets. “A true chocolatier and a true downtown on James Street about a “We have many specialties. Aus- retirement parties is a life-sized Predictably, Valentine’s Day is pastry chef are artists, so, if it’s year and a half ago. tralian ginger chunks in chocolate champagne bottle and glasses made their single busiest day of the year, really in them, it’s going to come Richard is the chocolate expert, and chocolate-covered nuts are al- from milk or dark chocolate, with with a predominantly male clien- out,” says Cindy. says his wife. He tempers, moulds ways in high demand, as well as our foam created from white chocolate tele. In demand are their chocolate To contact Chocolate Etc., and creates the hundreds of differ- chocolate with 70 per cent cocoa,” coming out of the bottle. heart boxes fi lled with assorted call 905-682-8828 Niagara student’s lifetime memorial to his dad watches over him and that he’s on ist named Glen Cole, who had By JESSE CARTER top. That there’s no more pain and done work on other friends. Staff Writer no more worries, that he’s alright Going with his mom and girl- A fi rst tattoo is usually a sig- and that he’s one of the generals in friend, Justine Brett, 19, Shaug- nifi cant moment that person’s life. the army of the light.” It also has nessy says although the tattoo had For some, they decide on impulse what Cam calls a “Buddha Angel” some really painful moments, he to break the routine of things, and below it that has a red wristband used his dad a lot to get through it. for others it can be a long, drawn- and golden halo. By placing the tattoo over his out process that can involve a lot Shaugnessy and his family heart he feels he will always have of detail and planning. Regard- wear red rubber “we remember” his dad with him. Even though less of the circumstances, the bands that their uncle brought his other family members have decision always involves a lot to them after the passing. only seen a picture of it, they of feelings, and none more than “The reason [for calling it a bud- all really appreciate the gesture. when getting a memorial tattoo. dha angel] is because I wanted The siblings are now all consid- Cameron Shaugnessy, 18, of to see like my dad as an angel, ering getting one together for re- Woodstock, Ont., has just received and the best description of that membrance, but Mitchell has never his fi rst tattoo, something his dad would be a fat angel, and the been a fan of tattoos. After seeing might have gone crazy over for best description of this fat angel this one, Shaugnessy says he now even considering it. Cam’s two was pretty much a buddha angel, has his brother considering it. sisters and brother are now also because my dad was chubby and Shaugnessy says he father never considering getting one too. fat and looked like a buddha.” liked tattoos and, when his sister The reason for all the ink? Cam- Shaugnessy’s good friend and Jayme got one, his father used to eron’s father, Dr. Kelly Shaug- roommate Lynden Lockhart, 18, joke that he would one night use nessy, 50, passed away on Oct. of Woodstock, also has a memorial his skills and surgically remove it. 31, 2010 in a fatal car accident. tattoo for his best friend of four Shaugnessy laughs as he remem- Leaving behind his wife, Shelly, years, Andy Poel, 18, who also bers his family questioning, “What 50, his two daughters, Jayme, 25, passed away in a car accident on would dad think?” and Krystelle,29, and his two sons, Sept, 13, 2009. By getting a cross Mitchell, 23, and Cam, Kelly also on his ribs because of his Catho- was and accomplished doctor in lic faith and then adding Andy’s Ingersoll. initials, Lockhart says he now al- Available exclusivly online at Cameron Shaugnessy bows his head remembering his late father, Dr. His practice had over 2,500 ways has his best friend with him. Kelly Shaugnessy. Niagara-News.com patients in a location just above “We literally had ever single Photo by Sam Vandenberg Independent grocery store. class together and played on the are reports on Originally, Shaugnessy says, he after his father’s passing, he decid- called Fighter, though he decided volley team together... he slept at CCAA Basketball, was already going to get a tattoo ed on getting the tattoo he now has. to change the words slightly to bet- my house like three times a week.” and he was hoping for either a tur- The tattoo consists of lyrics/ ter suit his feelings. Both Shaugnessy and Lockhart Stranger Danger Awareness tle or a quote that said, “Mind over poem from a favourite music art- The tattoo has the lines “I re- got their tattoos at G C tattoos Matter.” But he says half a month ist named Lupe Fiasco and a song ally miss my pops, hope that God by a recommended tattoo art- and many more topics. March 18, 2011 NIAGARA NEWS Page 15 NEWS Passion for music leads to success By LINDSAY COSTELLO the music. Although he has people who sup- Staff Writer Some of the segments featured port him, he says there have also Through hard work and determi- on Rock the Walls include an inside been some negative people who did nation, success can come at a young the music segment that highlights not believe in what he was doing. age. the meanings behind songs and an There were people who would For 20-year-old Patrick Walford, independent spotlight that exposes tell him his show wouldn’t amount music is a passion that has led him unsigned bands to a wider audience. to anything, but it was important for to many opportunities within the Walford says he feels these him to follow his dreams. industry. features add a “unique element” “I feel if you truly have a vision Walford, a student of Niagara to the show. of something you want to do in your College’s Broadcasting – Radio, With over 100 band interviews life, you have to go for it.” Television and Film program, hosts under his belt, he has been able to He describes his experience with and produces his own radio show, meet some of his favourite bands Rock the Walls as a “total dream called Rock the Walls. and artists. come true” and says he is just as The weekly show features punk, He says his experience has been excited at the start of each show as ska and hardcore music as well as a “gigantic honour” because it is he was the fi rst time he went to air. band interviews and exclusive seg- “such a passion.” Producing his own radio show ments. Walford recalls travelling to his has allowed Walford to experience Rock the Walls began in February hometown of Alliston, Ont., almost other opportunities in the music 2009 but was picked up by www. every weekend during his last term industry. idobi.com, an Internet radio station at Niagara and borrowing his par- Walford is the editor and opera- with more than two million listen- ents’ car in order to review concerts tor for www.niagaramusicscene. ers, in December 2010. and interview bands. com and is responsible for con- Walford became heavily inter- He says he doesn’t feel many tent management, posting news, ested in music while in high school other college students would sac- reviews and interviews. He was and his interest in radio was piqued rifi ce their free time to make their also chosen in the past to act as after speaking to a former student of dreams come true, but because he MuchMusic’s correspondent at the the broadcasting program. was so dedicated, music and radio Warped Tour’s Montreal stop. He says this is what got his “ideas “took over” his life. He is currently completing fl owing” before he stepped into the He says the skills he learned internships at TSN and MTV in classroom. in school have helped him but his Toronto and will graduate from While attending Niagara Col- journey has been fueled by “self- Niagara College this year. lege, he was the music director for motivation and drive.” Walford says he wants to fi nd the college radio station, 90.1 FM, Walford spends about fi ve hours a career in the broadcast industry from December 2009 to December a week working on his radio show and he is willing to move anywhere 2010 and also had his own specialty and usually starts preparing early in the country to pursue a career in show. in the afternoon for his Saturday the industry. Walford says when he started evening broadcasts. He has a “very good” feeling broadcasting on Idobi he had a Although running a radio show about Toronto, though, adding liv- “couple hundred” listeners per takes effort, he says he doesn’t con- ing there inspires and motivates show but his March 5 broadcast sider it a chore. him. reached over 15,000 people. “I really enjoy doing it, so I never Walford’s upcoming shows will He said seeing this amount of really thought of it as being work.” feature interviews with bands such support “blew my mind” and was He says one of his favourite parts as Sum 41, A Day to Remember “so surreal.” has been being able to meet “amaz- and Bring Me the Horizon. As producer and host of his own ing” people he would not have met Rock the Walls can be heard Niagara College student Patrick Walford, 20, hosts and produces Rock show, he books bands and guests, if it weren’t for his involvement Saturdays from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. the Walls, his online radio station. develops segments and chooses with music. on www.idobi.com. Submitted photo Th orold Trade Show attracts small businesses
By YUKI KAJI tisement and good advertisement. Staff Writer More than 100 people came a day. A big event for small business We built relationships. We can recently occurred in St. Catha- know who they are, what they do. rines. I can give knowledge about an- Small Business Club Niagara, a tiques to people who don’t know.” not-for-profi t incorporated organi- The event provided an area for zation, held its 2011 Trade Show the exchange of information for at the Four Points Sheraton in small business people. Thorold Feb. 17. Lisa Mocy, 45, of Kent, N.Y., is Last year more than 400 people an independent distributor of Mon attended this event. Vie, which sells nutritional juice. The 14th annual event had more She says, “It’s kind of unique. than 75 exhibitors promoting their I don’t have a booth but, by ex- products and services. changing business cards and intro- One exhibitor, Jenifer Cheng, ducing myself, I can advertise my 25, an assistant manager of Acne product and network.” Therapy & Skin Revision Clinic, Gwen Smith, an account execu- says, “We opened in November, tive of niagaralife magazine and so it’s good chance [to promote a member of the Small Business the clinic].” Club Niagara, says health prod- As the event slogan is The Big ucts and services are important Event For Small Business, many trends this year because there are new shops, on-line shops and many health business people who home-based business people par- joined this time. ticipated. Josie Jansen, an executive di- Leon Perel, who attended the rector of Small Business Club Ni- event for a second time, is a per- agara, says more than 260 people sonal property appraiser at 2017 came to the event. Niagara Stone Rd., Niagara-on- She says it provided great net- More than 75 exhibitors and more than 260 people participated in the Small Business Club Niagara 2011 the-Lake. He says, “It’s not the working and people who attended Trade Show on Feb. 17. largest event, but it’s cheap adver- could get to know about Niagara. Photo by Yuki Kaji Page 16 NIAGARA NEWS March 18, 2011 NEWS Letting go of the past Sexual abuse survivor fi nds strength to cut ties and love again By ANTON MWEWA them came to fruition. Staff Writer She says learning that her mother The only monsters children are was aware of what was happening supposed to be scared of are the “very nearly destroyed me.” After ones they think are under their all, she had endured the abuse in beds, the fi ctional bogeymen that order to protect her mother linger in the dark corners of a after her stepfather’s threats. child’s mind. Although her mother passed away Unfortunately, not all chil- in 2000, Mason says she does not dren have the privilege of hav- miss her but sometimes “wish[es] ing their imaginary monsters. she had been a different wom- Susan Mason was once such a an and a different mother.” child. Now an aspiring novelist As for her stepfather, Ma- with two manuscripts under her son says she has forgiven him, belt, Mason, 50, resides in Welland not for his sake but her own. with her husband of 30 years and “I was able to cut the ties that her two sons. bound me to him,” she says. “In Despite appearances to the letting go of the anger, shame, sad- contrary, Mason’s life wasn’t ness and hatred, I was able to love.” always quite as happy and pic- As would be expected, Mason’s turesque as it is seems to be. experiences have not gone unno- Only 18 years ago, she was still ticed. living in her personal nightmare, She and her family were featured being able to function from day to on the Oprah Winfrey Show in a day only by suppressing one horri- segment called Remembering Your fying secret: she had been sexually Spirit in 2000. abused as a child by her stepfather. The appearance has empow- “I grew up feeling hunted,” she ered her to speak at churches to says. “He made sure there was adult audiences and in schools no safe place to hide, no one to and classrooms to children. tell and nowhere to run away to.” “For each class, I had a The man who was supposed ‘Secret Box’ where children to be one of the people she could write their questions could always trust was instead and ask advice. I still have the the one she could never trust. notes … some made me cry.” After losing her biological father Abuse is still a prevalent prob- to cancer in 1968, Mason’s mother lem in today’s society, evident by found her fi ve children – Susan and the questions the children asked: her four siblings – a new “father.” “How do I get someone to stop However, it didn’t take long for hurting my little sister?” and “My him to become the opposite of friend told me a really bad secret what he was supposed to be, not about her Dad. If I tell, she will the protector the children would be mad at me. What do I do?” love and revere, but a destroyer. Mason says that her message for “He came into my room at someone who is being or has been night and made me cry,” explains sexually abused is to let it out. Mason in the simplest way she “Talk to someone: a fam- can. “He told me that if I told ily member, a friend, your our secret to anyone, my mother teacher or your minister. There would die just like my daddy did.” is a light at the end of the tunnel. Three or four times a week for 11 and you don’t have to do it alone. years, he would make his nightly “I never told about the abuse until I visits. was 32. That’s how great the fear of Mason says she even developed Susan Mason, 50, has overcome the trauma of child abuse and uses her experiences to help others whenever him [her stepfather] was. Someone a sort of ritual, one in which she’d she can. who wants to hurt a child will say place all of her dolls around at Photo by Anton Mwewa anything and do anything to keep the edges of her bed in a protec- that child quiet.” tive circle and settle herself in victorious was only reinforced. Despite their turbulent his- in the eyes of the law, and Mason says she shares her story the centre, waiting and knowing She had taken an overdose of pills, tory, Mason managed to stand in the eyes of the law only. because it needs to be told. that she would soon be hear- left a note and gone to sleep, only up to her stepfather after she “After the court, I went through a “People need to understand what ing his footsteps on the stairs. to awaken in the hospital with met her husband. She moved crippling depression,” Mason says. it’s like to be a victim of sexual After it was over she would her family by her side, crying out of her parents’ house when “I did a lot of writing. I remember abuse, or this will continue to be cry in her bed, at times for hours and asking why she had done it. she was 18 and what followed writing, ‘Never have I felt so loved, a secret that is swept under the on end. Sometimes, her mother “I looked up at my stepfather were endless nights and days and never have I felt so alone.’” rug. I share it so that victims who would come into her room after- and saw that he was crying too, but of depression and self-loathing. After nearly two years of bar- have remained silent can know wards, hitting her with a wooden more than that, he looked scared. In 1993, 25 years after the ricading herself in her own house, that it wasn’t their fault. We were brush and telling her the “Bad “Our eyes locked and he seemed abuse had begun, Mason fi nally locking all the doors and drawing children.” Lady” would come through the to be pleading for forgiveness. shared her secret with her fam- all the blinds, Mason says she came For those facing abuse, or- window and get her if she didn’t I wondered if he was crying be- ily. She went on to talk to the to a crossroads when her son’s ganisations such as the Niagara stop crying. cause he knew this was his fault.” police and later in a court of law. school called her about a family Region Sexual Assault Centre It was only much later that It turned out later that he had “To this day, I can’t put into tree project he had refused to do. and Women’s Place of South Mason would fi nd out her been crying for himself, for fear of words the shame I felt in tell- “I felt like a failure as a mother Niagara offer services such as 24- mother had always known. the hideous truth coming out. ing, or how fi lthy the secrets and I knew I had to make a choice. hour crisis lines and counselling. During the 11 years this abuse Just two days after she had been were when spoken out loud.” I would die or I would choose To reach the Niagara Region lasted, Mason says her stepfather’s released from the hospital, he came Her stepfather was charged and to rise above the hurt and live. Sexual Assault Centre Crisis Line, control over her grew stronger. after her again, picking her up from arrested, with her mother standing “I was afraid because I had call 905-682-4584. To reach Wom- “I knew that in the end, a school dance at 10 p.m. and driv- by him the whole time. He pled stopped talking about dying and en’s Place, call 905-788-0113 from he always won,” she says. ing her to an abandoned factory. guilty in court and was sentenced had begun to think of ways to die.” Welland, Port Colborne, Wainfl eet After attempting suicide at the “I fought him, but as al- to four years in prison, of which he Having regained her strength, and surrounding areas, or 905-356- age of 14, Mason’s belief her real- ways my tears and pleading served only 18 months. Mason has made attempts to rec- 5800 from Niagara Falls, Fort Erie life monster would always emerge meant nothing,” recalls Mason. Justice had been served oncile with her mother, but none of and surrounding areas. March 18, 2011 NIAGARA NEWS Page 17
Buying contraband cigarettes costs more than you think. It fuels other criminal activities, such as the traffi cking of drugs and guns. Individuals caught in possession of contraband cigarettes face serious consequences ranging from a fi ne to jail time. contrabandconsequences.gc.ca
L’achat de cigarettes de contrebande coûte plus cher qu’on le pense : il alimente d’autres activités criminelles comme le trafi c d’armes et de drogues. Les individus pris en possession de cigarettes de contrebande s’exposent à de graves conséquences, allant de l’amende jusqu’à l’emprisonnement. consequencesdelacontrebande.gc.ca Page 18 NIAGARA NEWS March 18, 2011 ON CAMPUS Niagara NC looks to recruit globally Health By GENESIS FALCON Staff Writer In a world that becomes more System global every day, international ex- perience is important. begins to David Oancia, born to Span- ish parents in Montreal, is an international recruitment offi cer at clean more Niagara College. Oancia says when people ask where is he from, he says both hands Madrid and Montreal. He lives in St. Catharines and By KIMBERLY SMITH has been part of the international Staff Writer department team at the college for The Niagara Health System about two years. (NHS) is installing unique kiosks Oancia went to the University at the Greater Niagara General Site of New Brunswick, in Fredericton, to encourage more vigilance on and Ryerson University in Toronto. hand hygiene. He is taking a business program Staff, doctors and visitors at the here. Niagara Falls location will “hear As an international recruit- a motion-activated voice message ment offi cer, Oancia says he is in asking them to clean their hands charge of developing enrolment by when they enter the main entrance showing why Latin American and and other areas of the building.” European students need to come to “What’s unique about these kiosk Niagara College. displays is that they have ledges for Oancia travels to countries at- people to put their purses, bags and tending information fairs and mak- other items to free up their hands so ing presentations. they can clean them,” says Frank He mainly recruits full-time Demizio, vice-president of Patient students and some English as a Services. Second Language (ESL) students. “It can be diffi cult for people to “Sometimes it is really exciting, clean their hands, particularly dur- but it’s always work,” says Oancia. ing the winter, when they are car- A personal experience that rying gloves and other items with marked Oancia on one of his trips no convenient place to put them.” was walking in the Amazon rain- In 2009 the NHS conducted its forest in Brazil. fi rst hand hygiene audit, resulting He says the recruitment market in educational sessions, an increase in Russia is growing and is “really of informational signage and the interesting.” David Oancia, a recruitment offi cer at the Welland campus, is in his ceoffi at the International Department. addition of alcohol-based hand Some of the countries Oancia Photo by Genesis Falcon sanitizer dispensers at all sites. has been able to visit throughout Caroline Bourque Wiley, public his life are Mexico, Colombia, I fell in love,” says Oancia about his favourites. affairs consultant for NHS, says, Venezuela, Russia and Spain. Salvador de Bahia in Brazil. Oancia hasn’t only lived in “Good hand hygiene is one of the “As soon as I got off the plane, He says the Russian people are Canada, he also has worked and best ways to prevent the spread of lived in Spain for about 15 years. infection. As a result of improved He notes, “Spain for living, It will open hand hygiene, we have seen a Canada for work.” signifi cant drop of outbreaks by 60 Another place that affected him per cent over the last two years.” was the coffee-growing region in doors for The NHS spokesperson says Colombia. there will be a continuing focus on “It’s beautiful. I really like it.” hand hygiene and an expansion of Oancia says the changing world themselves. kiosk initiative to all NHS sites. is “like a global village.” Hospital-acquired infections He adds, the more international affect fi ve to seven per cent of experience a student has, the more — David Oancia patients. opportunities there are for develop- The preventable infections are ing an amazing career. transmitted through touch, so visi- Students from 70 countries come dent of Bilbao Vizcaya Bank in tors to the hospital are reminded to to Niagara College. Spain, taught me the importance of wash hands before and after visit- The most popular home coun- marketing and how to fi t it into a ing, eating, blowing their nose or
tries for those students are India, big business.” coughing. China and Korea, as he says there Oancia adds, “I used to work in is a lot of market growth there. a bank.” How to use hand His specifi c markets of Russia, “Sean Coote, Niagara’s direc- Saudi Arabia and Colombia are tor of international services and sanitizer effectively. also growing in the number of stu- recruitment, also taught me a lot.” • Apply one to two pumps of dents recruited. Oancia says his mother worked product to palms of dry hands Oancia says international stu- in Canada for about 25 years and • Rub hands together, palm to dents see an good opportunity in is retired. palm. Canada, a safe country where they He says his mother visits Spain • Rub between and around can get a world-class education. over the period of four or fi ve fingers. “[It will] open doors for them- months each year, but is living • Rub back of each hand with selves, not only in Canada but also here. in their hometown,” he says. “I want that,” he says. palm of other hand. Oancia says how his parents had Oancia says each member of the • Rub fingertips of each hand in a great impact on him. 25-person international department opposite palm. “They taught me the beauty of team has a specifi c job. • Rub each thumb clasped in travelling, I was lucky.” He says his specifi c job is to at- opposite hand. He says he had a couple mentors tract students to Niagara Colleg. • Rub each wrist clasped in who taught him the importance of He adds that he also likes to par- opposite hand. marketing. ticipate in some of the social activi- • Rub hands until product is “Don Ybarra, who was the presi- ties the department organizes. dry. March 18, 2011 NIAGARA NEWS Page 19 ENTERTAINMENT ‘It’s my life, it’s my love’
By TONI KARAN Staff Writer Two former Niagara College students are taking their musical talents throughout North America. Welland-based acoustic per- formers Matt Dell, 25, and Ben Andress, 24, who took the Broad- casting Radio, Television and Film program, got together and created The Super Emo Tour. The idea was put together “last minute” and happened because the artists both had some time off. The tour kicked off at the Rex Hotel, in Welland, on Feb. 26 and continued throughout Ontario, New York and Ohio. It ended on March 3 in St. Catharines. Andress says he has been book- ing tours since he was in Grade 9, and he now knows promoters and a couple of places to do shows. “I’m so stoked for the end of the tour, where we’re doing three shows a day,” says Dell. The tour consists of paid gigs and open mic nights (unpaid per- formances). During the tour, the two artists Former Niagara College students Ben Andress (left) and Matt Dell performed their fi rst acoustic tour, The Super Emo Tour, across Ontario, New will promote themselves and sell York and Ohio. the split EP they created. Friend Submitted photo Jordan Deschamps created the cover of the EP. He says the job frees some of his he was two and by the age of 17 he guitar strings when he was a child, getting things off of your chest. The EP includes a cartoon of time so he can play more music. had “mastered” the piano, guitar, not knowing what he was doing I don’t care where I am when I’m Dell and Andress holding hands. Dell has a new untitled album vocals, bass, clarinet, trombone, and remembers writing simple 80 years old, I just want to write “I am really excited and have a lot coming out and will be doing a trumpet, saxophone, obo and fl ute. songs with a verse and a chorus. and play songs,” says Andress. of new songs to play,” says Andress. video shoot for the single Secrets Dell says he was inspired to play “I wrote a song last year and I “Music is my passion; it’s my The duo had met about six years and Lullabies at the end of April. music as a career choice after the thought it was the best thing ever, life, it’s my love. It [music] is ev- ago and fi rst performed together Andress says he fi rst considered passing of his older brother. and I’ve written songs now and erything I’ve done up to this point at the Youth Action Centre at the playing music from listening to He says it is “crazy” how at two thought, wow, this is way better,” in my life and it is all I ever want Seaway Mall. Tom Petty’s Full Moon Fever he was playing Twinkle, Twinkle says Andress. to do,” says Dell about his future in Since then the two artists have album with his father. Little Star and now his original Dell says the weirdest thing the music industry. played a “good handful of shows” “Every since then, I just want songs are being played on small is starting out playing battle of For more information on Dell, in different places such as Toronto to play music and sing songs that local radio stations. the bands with people from high visit http://www.youtube.com/ and Welland. make no sense,” says Andress. “Song writing is all based on school and then opening up for mattdellmusic and www.blackto- Andress is a program co-ordinator “Music is my thing,” says Dell. your own experiences,” says Dell. bigger bands like Marianas Trench. precords.org/ for more information for the YMCA Youth Action Centre. He has been playing piano since Andress says he would bang on “Playing music is a good way of on Andress. Local bands put on show for local youth By TONI KARAN The other two members of the Staff Writer band were unable to attend. It was a win-win event as bands “It’s a rush to play live because put on a show to support the youth you get a bunch of people in a room of Welland. to hear what you have to say,” says On March 12 the Youth Action Conlon. Centre, at 20 Hagar St., Welland, Lambs Become Lions can be held an all-ages event, which categorized as pop/folk music with included Lambs Become Lions, a little bit of country. Marine Dreams (with Ian Kehoe), The band’s music can be found Howler and Jonah Matranga. on its website www.facebook.com/ The doors opened at 6 p.m. and bahroar. admission was $10. Jennings says the members of “It [these events] helps out the the band have different musical local music scene and gives kids styles and infl uences. something to do on the weekend,” He says Coldplay is one of his says Ben Andress, 24, program major infl uences. co-ordinator for the YMCA Youth Conlon grew up listening to Action Centre. Garth Brooks and is infl uenced by Andress says he has built a lot of bands such as Fall Out Boy, Taylor contacts through his eight years of Swift and Barenaked Ladies. scheduled shows, so people who Kehoe, 28, former bass player want to perform at the centre usu- for Attack in Black, says he “got ally contact him. luck” and was asked to play at the Two members of the newly formed band Lambs Become Lions, Eric Conlon (left) and Justin Jennings, “These are all good bands who show with Marine Dreams. performed at the Youth Action Centre in Welland on March 12. will draw in a crowd,” says An- “I enjoy playing music, whatever Photo by Toni Karan dress. it is,” says Kehoe. “I am absolutely excited about The mission of the center is to ate a positive atmosphere and gets Justin Jennings and Eric Conlon, During his time visiting his being here [at the Youth Action give youth of Welland an environ- the youth off of the streets and out from newly formed band Lambs hometown of Welland, he has Centre] tonight. It was my inten- ment to encourage and shape their of trouble.” Become Lions, kicked off the show scheduled shows with Shotgun tion to play as much music as I can involvement in the arts. Visit www.themilecase.com for around 7 p.m. Jimmie and Baby Eagle. while I’m at home,” says Kehoe. Andress says, “These events cre- more information on Andress. Page 20 NIAGARA NEWS March 18, 2011 ENTERTAINMENT Music is something you’re born with By SAM VANDENBERG television and I was hooked for a chair and a spotlight, you know, Staff Writer life. I went out and purchased their boom, you’re it. It’s a different Music is something you’re born LP. Luckily enough, I found out ‘I asked my experience for the performer and with. It captures your every emo- they were playing in Toronto for a the audience,” emphasizes Pickett. tion. Long before you’ve decided week, so it was great. Shortly after mother to buy me His solo career has been just as to make it a profession, it has al- receiving a harmonica I had the well received as his harmonica ready consumed your life. chance to see some true masters of a harmonica when skills. He was nominated for two This ideology certainly holds the blues and harmonica.” Junos, in 1998 and in 2000. true when talking about Crystal Pickett’s fi rst focus in his long I was about 12.’ “I was excited and very Beach resident Michael Pickett. and ever-changing music career shocked,” says Pickett. Born in Toronto, Pickett has was no doubt the harmonica. His – Michael Pickett “It’s humbling, really. You been unknowingly paving his way passion and dedication to this know, it really is.” into the music industry since the timely blues instrument has left an Toronto at the time) get a couple of Aside from performing, early age of 12. impression in the industry. expressos and sit in my car (I had Pickett also puts on a “Going back to when I got my Pickett won the Maple Awards the back seats out of the car) and Labour Day weekend fi rst harmonica, those were really harmonica player of the year in basically play till what started at concert. “It’s been interesting times,” Pickett says, 1999, 2000 and 2002. He also was 10 a.m. but quickly became noon. magic, man,” says with a smile. the recipient of the Real Blues I’d come home and Louise, who’s Pickett. “I don’t know what your per- harmonica player of the year in my wife, would be there and I’d Musicians like spectives are on those times. I 1998,1999, 2001 and 2002. eat, and she’d tell me to go out and Pickett are rare these don’t know how real my perspec- Pickett added to his musical re- write a song. I did that for a long days. His Delta- tive is. When I was a kid, my sume´ by seriously picking up the time. As I was doing that, Louise inspired blues music buddies and I thought Bob Dylan guitar in 2000. was booking me in 2001 as a solo is not only played was normal. I don’t know what “I’ve had a guitar since I was 18, performer.” through his you think about Bob Dylan, but he but I was one of those guys who In the earlier years, Pickett, guitar, but is certainly is fucking normal. He’s didn’t play very often. Between “jammed with all different types truly lived outrageous. He’s like Picasso. It 1968 and 2000 I had probably of bands and groups, but now I’m through was really interesting times. There played publicly six times.” a solo artist and it’s different.” his life. was a real British infl uence on In 2000, Pickett’s solo career “When it works when your American music.” bloomed. He seriously began play- playing solo, it’s really great, you Remembering back, Pickett ing the guitar for hours upon hours know. When you really tap into says, “I asked my mother to buy a day and took breaks only to eat. that space and play and it’s all me a harmonica when I was about “I would literally get up in working, it’s really kind of won- 12. Shortly after that, I saw Sonny the morning – you know like 6 derful playing solo. You walk out Terry and Brownie McGhee on o’clock – and I’d go (we lived in on stage and that’s it, man. There’s March 18, 2011 NIAGARA NEWS Page 21 SPORTS Former WNBA great to visit Niagara
By EMMA RUSSELL ties, Schumacher accepted the Staff Writer powerhouse basketball program The 2011 Women’s National at the University of Connecticut, Basketball Championships are where she made one Elite Eight fi nally here, and with a champion- appearance, one Sweet 16 and ship come awards. two Final Four appearances in the The Sheraton Fallsview Hotel NCAA Tournaments. in Niagara Falls was the site for Schumacher was drafted the the belairdirect Canadian Colleges 14th pick in the fi rst round for Athletic Association (CCAA) All- WNBA’s Indiana Fever. She ap- Canadian banquet on March 16. peared in more games than any National awards, including player player in the franchise history, says of the year and coach of the year Schumacher’s website. and the top 10 players in Canada, In her successful eight-year were recognized. The banquet career in the WNBA, she won the started at 6:30 p.m. championships with the Phoenix To support all the women at Mercury and Detroit Shock. the banquet this year is former “We’re very fortunate to have Women’s National Basketball As- such an accomplished individual sociation (WNBA), CCAA and speak at our banquet,” says Ray National Collegiate Athletic As- Sarkis, Niagara College co-ordi- sociation (NCAA) achiever Kelly nator of athletics and recreation Schumacher. and host chair of the 2011 CCAA “I’m honoured to be able to Women’s National Basketball come back and show my support to Championships. the young, talented athletes of the “I know her message to our stu- future,” says Schumacher. dent athletes will be very powerful Schumacher was born in Cincin- and inspirational.” nati, Ohio, but moved to Quyon, Schumacher’s keynote speech Canada, at age 11. Growing up, is sponsored by Campus Living Niagara Knights guard and OCAA all-rookie team member Jimmy Bilenga is challenged by two defenders Schumacher played every sport Centres. during their last game against the Sheridan Bruins on Feb. 18. she could. In high school she ex- Niagara College Knights will be Photo by Sam Cino celled in basketball, volleyball and hosting the CCAA Women’s Na- soccer. Schumacher graduated and tional Basketball Championships, went to John Abbott College in where the eight collegiate teams Quebec, where her team won back- in Canada play for gold. This will to back national championships. be the fi rst time since 1998 that the She received the award for being championships have been played Th e end of the road John Abbott’s rookie of the year, in Ontario. with 19 points. at the half, “was only eight-for-18 women’s athlete of the year and The March 18 games are sched- Men’s season The Knights were eager to from the charity stripe, for a shoot- was named “All-Canadian” and the uled at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. The semi- avenge an 80-58 playoff loss to ing accuracy of 44 per cent, while CCAA player of the year. fi nal games will be played at 6 p.m. ends with Algonquin last year in an OCAA the Thunder were successful 66.7 “Participating in the CCAA and 8 p.m. The medals will be de- championship qualifying game. per cent of the time, sinking 22 Women’s Basketball Champion- cided on March 19, with the bronze disappointing loss The Thunder fi nished in fi rst their 33 attempts,” McCart says. ships were very exciting moments qualifi er game at 10 a.m. and noon. place in the OCAA East region with “We battled all the way, the boys in my life,” says Schumacher. The bronze medal game will be at in OCAA tourney a 19-1 record and only one loss to played their hearts out, but it’s After being offered many schol- 6 p.m. and the gold medal game at the Durham Lords in Oshawa. tough to win when you miss that arships to the best U.S. universi- 8 p.m. By CAROLYN GOARD The Knights, however, were many free throws,” Atkin adds. Staff Writer “one and out” when the OCAA Niagara’s fi rst-year coach was The Niagara Knights men’s championships tipped off in the proud of how the Knights came basketball team reached the end quarterfi nal games, says McCart. together over the course of the of its season March 3 after be- Head coach Steve Atkin says seasons and gelled heading into the ing eliminated from the Ontario the team had every opportunity to second half of the season. Colleges Athletic Association win in the opening round against “Right now, we can play against (OCAA) championships in Sault Algonquin, but the team met its anyone in the country. Unfortunate- Ste. Marie. match and dropped a 82-78 deci- ly, we won’t be getting a chance to The Knights returned to the sion to the Algonquin Thunder. demonstrate that,” says Atkin. OCAA championships after their McCart says Smith had a game- Atkin says, “They accomplished one-year absence and a 102-76 high 27 points, while captain and this through incredible dedication win over the Fleming College guard Lamar Grant and captain and hard work. They represented Knights from Peterborough on and forward Jeremy Settimi each the school and this community at Feb. 26. However, they were elim- scored 11 points reaching double the highest level and are great am- inated from the championships at digits in scoring for the team. bassadors of the game.” Algoma University on March 3 af- The team was hoping to win McCart mentioned that Smith ter a tough loss against Algonquin its fi rst provincial championship was Niagara’s top rebounder in the College’s Thunder, from Ottawa. since returning home with bronze loss with seven, and Bilenga also After the Knights’ win against in 2009 when the championships received individual honours after Fleming, they ranked fourth place were played at Algonquin. the game. in the OCAA West region with an Free throws were a contributing Bilenga was named to the impressive 11-7 record. force to the outcome of the game. OCAA all-rookie team, and Smith With a halftime score of 47-37 “We missed 10 free throws and was selected to the second all-star for the Knights on Feb. 3, Niagara shot 40 per cent from the line and team at the award’s banquets on continued with a strong offence to lost basically by three, discounting a March 2. ultimately win the game. free throw they hit as a result of our As the season for the men’s Guard Matt Thomas “pumped need to foul at the end, ultimately basketball team wraps up, Atkin in 19 of his 23 points in the later losing by four,” McCart says. says, “I am extremely proud of frame, while guard Jimmy Bilenga The Knights started the second this team.” also had 23 points for Niagara,” half of the game “very slow,” Although the Knights are out says sports information offi cer which did not help the cause, At- until next season, there are high Former WNBA superstar Kelly Schumacher attended the CCAA awards Shawn McCart. kin adds. hopes for next year’s OCAA cham- banquet March 16. Forward C.J. Smith fi nished Niagara, with a one-point lead pionships. Submitted photo Page 22 NIAGARA NEWS March 18, 2011 NEWS GenNext group out to make a diff erence By EDEN ARMSTRONG Lamothe. Staff Writer Marty Mako, 34, works as a It’s time to pass the torch. health promoter for Niagara Re- The United Way of St. Catha- gion Public Health. Mako is fi rst rines and District has created a chair of the GenNext group and, group for people ages 20 to 40 who together with Lamothe, has spear- want to make a difference in the headed the project. community. “I had similar observations to Eric Lamothe, 25, is the cam- Eric when I’ve attended United paign manager for the United Way Way events through the years and is staff liaison for the GenNext through my role as co-chair of group. He worked as a campaign the Region’s United Way Action associate for a year and has been group.” in his newest role for the past year. The two met at the Region His job is to oversee 200 work- through the United Way Action place campaigns, including dress- group. With 3,000 employees, Ni- down days and other workplace agara Region has as its corporate fundraisers. charity of choice the United Way. “I saw a big gap in the age de- Mako says he would like to see The GenNext group attended the United Way’s volunteer appreciation evening. From left , Sean Greenhalgh, mographic that were long-time younger people take action and get Lauryn Richardson, Kristen Smith, Marty Mako, Mackenzie Kish, Jordan Charron, Rebecca Shupe, Kevin supporters and donors, board and involved in the Niagara region. McGrath, Tim Luey, Eric Lamothe and Jocelyn Titone. cabinet members. They were all “We want to engage the next Photo by Eden Armstrong the baby-boomer generation,” says generation to play more of an active leadership role in the cam- paign and in giving back to the community in general. There is a defi nite need for this in the com- munity and getting this generation connected,” says Mako. Lamothe and the United Way approached Mako, who said yes to the idea, and then the planning 95 began. A 25-member cabinet was needed and the interview process was soon underway. “We wanted to make sure that $ both sides connected. We wanted to make sure they were getting out of it what they wanted to,” says Lamothe. He says a 25-member limit was key. Other GenNext groups work with the same number, so Lamothe and Mako thought this would be a good size. 29 “Any more would be unman- ageable. Everyone in the group has a role.” “Eric and I knew we wanted to have a balance between private sec- tor, public sector and non-profi t,” says Mako. “We wanted diverse opinions. We wanted a cabinet that was really well-rounded.” Lamothe says, “We were build- ing this from scratch. We wanted to develop it together. We thought that was the exciting part of it. We got to be creative and innovative. ave big We were building something out $ of nothing.” By mid to late summer, the inter- view process ended and the cabinet was formed. Lamothe kept getting emails from people asking if they could be on the committee. For just $29.95, walk in with your taxes, walk out with your refund. Instantly. Lamothe and Mako say preven- * tion is key. The United Way of St. You’ll also get a free SPC Card to save big at your favourite retailers. Catharines and District gives funds to 68 programs and wants to see people take on efforts so that these programs could be ended. student “We want to encourage preven- we make taxes easy tion so that years from now we are pricing funding more and more programs but that we are living in a sustain- free SPC Card able and healthy community.” GenNext is in the fi nal stages of knowing what it wants to ac- Follow us on Twitter and Facebook hrblock.ca complish. The next step is to hold a public launch. “We wanted to hold off on the © 2011 H&R Block Canada, Inc. *$29.95 valid for regular student tax preparation only. Cash back service included. To qualify for student pricing, student must present either (i) a T2202a documenting 4 or launch because we wanted to have more months of full-time attendance at a college or university during 2010 or (ii) a valid high school identification card. Expires December 31, 2011. Valid only at participating H&R Block locations in Canada. SPC Card offers valid from 08/01/10 to 07/31/11 at participating locations in Canada only. For Cardholder only. Offers may vary, restrictions may apply. Usage may be restricted when used in conjunction all the behind-the-scenes work with any other offer or retailer loyalty card discounts. Cannot be used towards the purchase of gift cards or certificates. done before we went public. We want this group to be sustainable for many years to come,” says Mako. March 18, 2011 NIAGARA NEWS Page 23 NEWS Singing a familiar tune Karaoke enthusiast gains popularity at local bar
By KRISTEN SPRUIT while some can’t carry a tune in ates talent. To keep the entertain- Staff Writer a bucket,” he comments. “But ment rolling and for his own enjoy- Five minutes of fame is all some what makes it fun is that they are ment, Tetrad Wright, who has been people need for a cheap thrill, and up there trying, and that’s what running karaoke at CJ’s Restaurant there is no cheaper thrill than belt- karaoke is all about. It’s not about for about eight months, likes to ing out a familiar tune, successful whether you can or can’t sing; it’s sing “anything from 1970’s classic or otherwise, in a Welland bar. just about going up and having fun rock to today’s alternative progres- CJ’s Restaurant, at 128 East doing it.” sive rock” between performances. Main St., is owned and operated Regular patron Mike Munro, “I like this job because it doesn’t by Chris Walker and his mother, an engineering technologist who feel like a job. I would be there Doreen Walker, of St. Catharines. recently moved to Welland, sings anyway singing. I don’t see myself In just its second year of opera- at karaoke as a hobby and prefers doing this for a long time, but any- tion, Chris says one of his busiest songs that are dynamic and require thing with music is the industry for nights is Thursday night karaoke, a good vocal range. me,” says Wright. run weekly from 9:30 p.m. until He says although he’s never con- His signature closing song every closing. sidered quitting his day job to sing, Thursday is Gravedigger by the Chris says he started karaoke he has been approached by various Dave Matthews Band. night because he likes to sing and choir groups and recently a record- Others, such as Chimere Trem- was certain others in the commu- ing studio. blay, a third-year Electronic En- nity liked to as well. “It’s cool to have people enjoy gineering Technology student at “It has caught on and now it what you’re doing up there. If you Niagara College, don’t go to sing, grows every Thursday. I enjoy get up on stage and project yourself but to have a good time and sup- hearing the different people sing- well, then the crowd will get into port friends. ing and watching them have fun.” it,” Munro says. “It’s nice to go somewhere Although the crowd is primarily “It’s therapeutic too if you’re where you recognize the faces ev- regulars, Chris says he does see afraid to get up in front of people ery week. It’s like having our own newcomers. or have a shy factor. If you can Cheers here in Welland.” To be expected, the level of tal- get up there and do karaoke, then CJ’s restaurant is open Tuesday Karaoke enthusiast Mike Munro sings Walking in Memphis at CJ’s ent varies. that’ll go away. It doesn’t matter if and Wednesday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Restaurant on Feb. 17. “A lot of the people that do you’re good or not.” and Thursday to Saturday 11 a.m. Photo by Kristen Spruit come out are very good singers, The audience, however, appreci- to 1 a.m. Religious clubs have the support Students refl ect of Student Administrative Council on religious beliefs Although there are few faith-based clubs at the college, SAC welcomes the idea of more and backgrounds
By STEPHANIE AZEVEDO culinary classes there.” By STEPHANIE AZEVEDO Staff Writer Even though religious clubs are Staff Writer ‘Everyone has College students with similar in- scarce at the college, it shouldn’t Ideas of faith and religion are terests and hobbies have the option deter students from inquiring about ingrained in everyone, even if that their own faith, of starting clubs, yet there seems starting one. SAC is open to sug- belief is that there shouldn’t be any. to be a lack of religious clubs at gestion, and will give students as- Mitchel Gartner, a fi rst-year their own belief. Niagara. sistance in starting a club. Electrical Engineering student, At the Welland campus, there is “There’s nothing stopping [stu- says the word “religion” to him I don’t think it’s only one religious club called Xo- dents who want to start a club] means “faith, belief, God, spirit dus, and the Niagara-on-the-Lake from coming to us,” she says. “We and everything like that.” good to try to push (NOTL) campus does not have any. would never turn a person down Gartner was raised Christian and Jaleesa Russell, director of clubs without reason.” continues to follow the path. stuff on other and volunteers for the Student Clubs funded by SAC are offered He says the most important Administrative Council (SAC), up to $300 per semester, but a club part of his faith is “that there is religions.’ acknowledges religious clubs are that runs on one campus cannot run an afterlife. That there is a God in not very popular at the college. on the other. Heaven.” — Mitchel Gartner “There haven’t been any other “It prevents clubs from double “Everyone has their own faith, [faith-based] clubs here in the last dipping,” Russell says. their own belief. I don’t think it’s “Anything about the life, you fi ve years.” If a club wanted to run on both ‘There’s nothing good to try to push stuff on other can show them.” Although religious clubs are campuses, the founder would have religions,” he says. For Yassin Al-taha, a fi rst-year warmly welcomed, Russell gives to go through some leg work fi rst. stopping [students To fi rst-year English as a Sec- Computer Programming stu- plenty of reasons as to why there “There would have to be some ond Language student Ahlam Al dent, the word “religion” means haven’t been many instated, espe- kind of an agreement to prevent who want to start Zuwaid, her religion has a slightly “something my parents believed cially in recent years. them from [obtaining extra funds],” different meaning, serving as in, something my old ancestors “There could be too many differ- Russell explains. a club] from something to look to when life is believed in.” ent programs running at the school What of the provision that clubs coming to us... We stressing her out. He, too, was raised Muslim, but or outside the campus,” Russell must allow anyone to join? “If I do that [follow my religion], says, “I’m not actually religious.” explains. “There could also be “I think it comes down to letting would never turn I feel very relaxed, and it is good “I’ve just lost my way,” he says, a lack of advertising, or fi nding someone in for a good reason,” for the pain.” shrugging, adding he believes he enough people to get together to Russell comments. “The problem a person down Al Zuwaid was raised as a Mus- will go back again one day. start a club. is fi nding out why they want to join lim and continues to follow the Al-taha says the part of Islam “A lot of that has to do with the that group.” without reason.’ faith. he wishes could be spread to all types of classes we have here; for The Xodus club was contacted “In the Qur’an you [can show] religions is forgiveness. example, NOTL has culinary clubs for comment, but failed to reply by — Jaleesa Russell anyone what is right and what is “When you feel forgiven, you because they have the brewery and press time. wrong,” she says. feel liberated, free.” Page 24 NIAGARA NEWS March 18, 2011 NEWS
From left to right are Mike Kirshin, Sean Arbuthnot and Jay Forbes, who portray 1st Platoon, Bravo Company, 2nd Battalion, 503rd Infantry, 173rd Brigade - Airborne during Vietnam 1968. Photos by Sam Cino Imaginary war is simulated hell Toronto Airsoft Convention showcases the very best in faux-combat
By SAM CINO The main attractions included According to Brian McIlmoyle, “I had a good time at the show,” For more information on how Staff Writer Airsoft gun and parts vendors, who started the show in 2006, says Ritchie Lieu. “It was hot at to get involved in Airsoft, visit Sometimes war can be fun. army surplus, a kit-swap table, more people came to the show times, so they need to work on the Frequently Asked Questions The 6th annual Toronto Air- Second World War and Vietnam by mid-day than during all of last that. I think it is time for a bigger section of their website at www. soft Convention (TAC) was held re-enactors, and, for the fi rst time year’s show. location.” airsoftcanada.com. March 5 at the Fighting Arts Col- in the show’s history, on-site food, lective at 927 Dupont St. provided by Green Mango. The show drew people from “The food booth was an excel- across Ontario. lent addition. You don’t always Airsoft is a game played much have time to step out for food and like paintball, with “guns” used to barely any time to eat it,” says shoot and eliminate other players. Derek Yundt, of Guelph, Ont., The main difference is that who was working at the BB Bas- Airsoft uses solid six-millimetre tard booth all day. plastic BBs, whereas paintball “BB Bastard was busy all day, uses larger paint-fi lled balls. both selling and answering plenty Airsoft uses the honour system of questions about our product for players to remove themselves lines,” he says. when eliminated, but there are TAC regular Jeroon Vrakking harsh penalties ranging from was also in attendance, running temporary removal from play, to his Army Issue surplus booth, lifetime bans of a cheater from the complete with booth babes who entire community. distributed stickers of his catch- Paintball has visible paint phrase, “Dude, I sell Pants.” splotches on the person shot. The Ontario Airsoft World War The age groups are different as II Re-enactors, and the Bravo well. The majority of people can Company Vietnam Re-enactors participate in paintball, but most travelled from London, Ont., and Airsoft games are open to only spent the day answering questions those aged 18 or older. on such topics as where to pur- Airsoft guns are also almost ex- chase historical items and how to act recreations of real weapons, but join a unit and letting the attend- they are unable to fi re real bullets. ees handle their weaponry. This Paintball guns have a large tank included a 1940’s Tommy gun and attached to them and resemble a 1960’s M60 machine gun, made From left to right are Alec Wilson, Will Truong and Ian McNish, who portray the 1st Canadian Parachute something out of science fi ction. famous in the Rambo movies. Battalion during the Second World War.