http://www.newsatniagara.com Jan. 19, 2007 Volume 37, Issue 5

See Page 5 The Best Way To Connect With Niagara SeeSee PagePage 88 Niagara graduates Nature’sNatures IceIce SculptureSculpture awarded for SAC work By ROBYN HOPPER College offi cials state Staff Writer Beauchamp and Hardwick Two Niagara College graduates succeeded in enhancing student have been honoured. life here through initiatives such as Wesley Beauchamp and Mark adding dental health benefi ts to the Hardwick, recent graduates, have local student health plan. won a 2007 Association of Colleges The award winners also led the of Applied Arts and Technology of development for more Niagara Ontario (ACAATO) award for their College student scholarships as efforts as Student Administrative well as participating in the pro- Council (SAC) presidents, state vincial Fund Me Now campaign, Niagara’s offi cials in a press release. which advocated for the provincial ACAATO is the organization government to increase funding for representing all 24 of Ontario’s Ontario colleges. colleges. Beauchamp served as the SAC Established in 2000, the ACAATO president at the college’s Niagara- awards recognize individuals, on-the-Lake campus, and Hard- organizations and volunteers who wick was the SAC president at the have made outstanding contributions college’s Welland campus. to the advancement of Ontario’s Both award winners demon- college system. strated the importance of working The award selection panel for the together to deliver results. sixth annual ACAATO awards was “We are very proud of Mark and Dr. Philip Steenkamp, deputy minister Wesley and their work on behalf of training, colleges and universities; of students,” said Niagara College Len Crispino, president and chief President Dan Patterson. executive offi cer of the Ontario “Both young men made Chamber of Commerce; Beverly important contributions to college Townsend, past chair of ACAATO; life.” Dr. Brian Desbiens, past president On Feb. 19, Beauchamp and of Peterborough’s Fleming College; Hardwick will be presented with and Tyler Charlebois, director of their Student Leadership Awards at Freezing rain combined with frigid temperatures on Jan. 15, left a picturesque scene around advocacy for the College Student the ACAATO annual conference in Niagara. Alliance. Toronto. Photo by Michael Dach COMMENTARY Police give community In a New York minute chance to voice opinion By KRISTEN COUGHLAR Divers says they are seeking the You have, it seems, only one Now, this is not an everyday Staff Writer public’s perspective on “a variety of option: because no one else occurrence, and most of the The Niagara Regional Police things, each community’s view on seems to be doing anything, you commuters stood and stared as Service (NRP) is giving the public their needs.” must put aside your plans and Autrey made his decision in a the opportunity to speak out. To promote these consultation help the person lying face-up on second. He jumped on the track On Jan. 5 the NRP launched Your sessions, the NRP has utilized a the tracks. and covered the boy, hoping for the Community, Your Safety, Your variety of services, including a press Your experience would be like best as the train gained on them. Future: Make It Count, to gather conference on Jan. 5, newspapers, that of Wesley Autrey. A New In the end, both Autrey and the public’s perspective on various TV and radio to enlist the public’s York City construction worker, the seizure victim, Cameron issues and police service priorities involvement. Autrey was waiting, along with Hollopeter, were unharmed. in their community. The fi rst session was held on Jan. By ROSE SOMR many other commuters, for the Hollopeter suffered minor bruises Through a series of consultation 8 at the college’s Welland campus, Columnist morning train when he witnessed and Autrey’s toque saw the worst sessions the public will assist the which, Divers says, about 30 people Picture yourself amid the chaos a teenaged boy having an attack of the injury, having only grease NRP in the development of its attended. of a New York City subway and then falling onto the tracks. stains to show for their brush with 2007-2009 business plan, as well Commenting on the response the station, clutching your briefcase As if this weren’t bad enough, danger. as playing a role in the way their program has received to date, Divers or handbag and making your way an approaching train was rolling This event, which happened on community is serviced. says, “My phone has been ringing to your job. fast toward the platform and Jan. 2, caused me to think about In a phone interview, Dr. Paul all day with people wanting to sign Now imagine a commotion. A Autrey was faced with a choice what I would have done in the Divers, a corporate support analyst up.” young man falls onto the tracks, to either jump down and help the same situation. Autrey maintains with the NRP, says the goal of the The International Ontario Editorial apparently suffering a seizure young man off the tracks, which he is not a hero, but that he did consultation sessions is “essentially Board, a branding, marketing and while every other person is would be a struggle at his slight what he hoped New Yorkers to get community feedback for our communications and public relations gaping at the unfortunate boy, a height and weight, or simply would do if they were faced with 2007-2009 business plan and insight organization, has also been fi elding train begins its regular journey to cover him and allow the train to that choice. to what communities’ concerns and calls for the NRP, who it solicited to the subway platform. roll over them. Continued on Page 6 issues are with respect to crimes and help with the program. the police service in general.” Continued on Page 2 Page 2, news@niagara, Jan. 19, 2007 International students face new challenges By MIRA NASSER ESL student Roman Schmucki, 22, of Switzerland, agrees. have been drawn to study in Canada. Even the tuition rates Staff Writer He says the most diffi cult part of learning English is getting in Canada, although three times higher than that of Canadian International students here come from all over the world, the grammar correct. students, are still relatively lower than in countries such as and many fi nd that adjusting to a new country can be hard. Kim is one of the increasing numbers of international the United States, England and Australia. Every year, 150,000 international visa students enter students who are leaving big cities such as Toronto and Asas says she chose to come to Canada because it was Canada to attend various colleges, universities and high Vancouver for smaller cities. cheaper than going to the U.S., and she felt Canada is safer schools. They leave behind their families and friends in order “Toronto is messy and loud,” he says. “Welland is more and would be “more open to an international student since to learn English or further their education. For most students, relaxed.” they are so multicultural.” it is not an easy transition. Barihan Asas, 27, of Netherlands Antilles, is an interna- ESL student Hitomi Iwashita, 19, of Japan, says she The fi rst obstacle that students face is language. The tional student in the Master of Business Administration pro- likes studying in Canada because it has a lot of different majority of international students entering Canada are gram at Brock University in St. Catharines. She says she ini- nationalities compared to Japan where it is mostly “Asian part of the English as a Second Language (ESL) program. tially wanted to attend the University of Toronto but decided people.” English is not their fi rst language and, while some of these on Brock because it would provide her with a “more intimate Social events at colleges and universities are aimed at students do know some English, the majority of them have interaction with my teachers and professors.” helping international students become more involved with no formal knowledge of the language and have to start at the The intimacy that smaller universities and colleges provide one another as well as with Canadian students. basic level. can be benefi cial to international students who are far away Niagara College holds many social activities designed to Tae-Yoon Kim, 27, of South Korea, is an ESL student. from families and friends. A better relationship with their help international students adjust to life here. He arrived in Toronto eight months ago and then moved teachers can help students struggling with the stresses of It also provides students with English tutors, counselling to Welland, to attend Niagara College’s ESL program. He being in school. services and programs such as Global Connections aimed says learning English is “sometimes easy” but writing and In the last few years, there has been a growing awareness at bringing together international and Canadian students for grammar are diffi cult. of Canada’s educational system, so international students their benefi t. Correction SAC welcomes Medieval Times Incorrect information appeared in several items in the Dec. 8, By KELLY ESSER Trailer Park Boys, is coming to 2006 edition of news@niagara. Staff Writer After Hours. The show opens at 8 In an article on page 32, Cindy Andrews’s title should have been Hear Ye! Hear Ye! p.m., and cost is $15. Niagara College campaign chair for 2007 and president of the United Let it be known that Niagara SAC is also sponsoring Way Board of Directors in Niagara Falls. College’s Student Administrative Winterfest: Jan. 29 to Feb. 2. It’s Also, staff participation in the United Way campaign increased Council (SAC) is offering you the a week full of winter activities, seven per cent, not student participation. chance travel to Toronto to see including volleyball, snowball On page 1, the name of Roger Couvrette was incorrectly spelled. the Medieval Times Dinner and give-away, Jacob’s Ladder and free Couvrette is president of the Organization of Part-time and Sessional Tournament on Jan. 26. pool in After Hours at the Welland Employees of Colleges of Applied Arts and Technology. The event will take place in campus. The cutline for the wild photo on page 26 should have read “Rick the Toronto Castle at 7:30 p.m. In The Armoury at the Niagara- Regier, 20, of Zurich, Ont., hits a ball during a practice for Niagara Tickets are $40 each, which covers on-the-Lake campus, activities College’s men’s volleyball team. Photo by Jason Petznick.” transportation, dinner, a program, include a barbeque, open mike, It is the policy of news@niagara to correct errors of fact. DVD, priority seating and the Campus Idol, carnival events and tournament, and are limited to snowboarding, which is on a PS2. current Niagara College students Coming Jan. 22 and Jan. 29, After until Jan. 22. So far tickets are selling well, Hours will be holding Campus Idol From Jan. 22 until Jan. 29, sales with not many tickets left. Seating from noon to 2 p.m. For details, go will be open to people other than is limited, so sign up at the SAC to the SAC offi ce. students. Buses for the show leave offi ce. For more information about these The UPS Store® the Welland campus at 4:30 p.m., Also coming this month, on events and more that are coming ® and at 5 p.m., from the Niagara-on- Jan. 23, the Mr. Lahey and Randy to the college through SAC, visit The UPS Store the-Lake campus. show, from the TV series The http://www.ncsac.ca/. 200 Fitch Street, Welland Mailbox Service with Street Address by the Welland Plaza Worldwide Ground & Air Shipping 905-788-0770 Direct Digital Printing | Fax Sending & Receiving | Custom Packing Service Port Colborne Binding & Laminating | B&W & Colour Portal Village Wine store makes big splash Photocopies | Postage Stamps 905-835-0770 By STEPHEN BOSCARIOL The store and the program have pus is the only location at which Staff Writer won multiple awards for various the public can purchase wines Since 2002, the Niagara College wines. This year’s bestseller is the made by the students. Expansions 62177319 Wine Store at the Niagara-on-the- 2004 Warren Classic Chardonnay. to the store will more than likely Lake campus has been distributing “We are known for our big, bold occur within the next few years as delicious wines. chardonnays and our pinots. Every the winery products have grown “We opened on Nov. 19, 2002. year our wines are entered into in number and popularity. Chanc- I remember that day very well national competitions, and every es of another store opening at the because I was a student in the year we come back with awards for Welland campus are very unlikely. winemaking program,” says retail the best wines,” says Sproule. “Depending on the day, we can store manager Kimberly Sproule. Upon entering the store, a have little sales or we can have The store has been successful in customer will be greeted by helpful massive sales. We are getting generating a profi table income for and knowledgeable staff. too big, but there are too many Niagara College. “Myself and fi ve students work legalities involved in opening a “This is how we fund the in the store. If you are interested in new wine store, so I can’t see that Be Prepared…Get Informed program, through our sales. applying for a job. then you’ll go happening any time soon,” says Be Prepared…Get Informed Everything goes into a department through the same process as any Sproule. ATTEND THESE FREE WORKSHOPS! we have developed called EHAD other job. Come in with a resumé, The campus Wine Store is [Environmental, Horticulture and fi ll out an application form and open every day: Monday and Monday, January 22, 2007 Agri-business division]. From then, if we are interested in your Tuesday from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., that department our revenue is services, we’ll call you for an Wednesday to Saturday from 10 distributed to different programs, interview.” a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sundays from University Prep. Workshop not just ours.” The Niagara-on-the-Lake cam- 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. N.O.T.L. Campus: • Room E310 • 1:30-2:30 pm Career Decision Making Workshop Divers says community input needed Welland Campus: Continued from page 1 as a service we are trying to be effective.” • Meeting Room SAC Building • 12:30-1:30 pm On Jan. 9, an editorial in The [St. transparent. We are mandated Six consultations will be held Catharines] Standard described under the Police Services Board throughout January in each major parts of the program as a tool to to seek public opinion on a host of district. Counselling Services gain evidence in support of new issues. We are looking at the long Session locations and times, as police facilities. Divers responded term, what is going to be best for well as an online survey can be We’re Here To Help! to the article, saying, “I think the community and the most cost found at www.makeitcount.ca. 62282710 news@niagara, Jan. 19, 2007, Page 3` Fair Trade Niagara part of International Education Week By MIRA NASSER production of hand-made goods Staff Writer and accessories. ACE Niagara members were on The college, says Strong, is a quest to raise awareness during undertaking an initiative that helps their Fair Trade Bazaar on Nov. 30 women in South Africa living and Dec. 1 at the Niagara-on-the- under the poverty line have better Lake campus. lives and a fair income. As part of International Education “We are literally reducing their Week at Niagara College’s poverty by providing extra income campuses, ACE Niagara organized for them.” a bazaar to promote fair trade and The group also imports products exhibit the craftwork of South from the Guarani indigenous tribe African and Argentinean artisans. who live under the Iguazú Falls in Participating were Fair Trade Argentina. Niagara, Ten Thousand Villages, Carol Durken, assistant manager the longest running and largest of Ten Thousand Villages, says fair trade organization in North they became involved with Fair America, and Great Escapes Trade Niagara when they were Candles, a Niagara Falls business. contacted and asked to work on a Fair Trade Niagara is an ACE Christmas bazaar. Niagara project and has been oper- They had worked together ating for about a year and a half. once before, during International “It is an initiative that they took Development Week in January at on as part of their mandate and the college. as part of the mandate of interna- The goals of the bazaar are to tional products to promote fair generate awareness of Fair Trade trade at Niagara College,” says Niagara and promote their products Larissa Strong, an international and outline the support ACE project specialist. Jos Nolle, director of International Education and Development, poses with Inxili women in South Africa Niagara has provided to women in Fair Trade Niagara offers during a recent trip. The Inxili women are artisans whose crafts are a part of Fair Trade Niagara. South Africa in particular. producers a different way of Submitted photo by Larissa Strong Strong says she would like trading that benefi ts them directly. people to understand “a little bit The producer is directly connected In addition to offering stable and participating in fair trade, we are The Inxiliwomen are a group of more” about how Niagara College to the consumer without the sustainable trading conditions for trying to make poverty history and about 15 underprivileged women is connected, especially with the middle men, importers, taking producers in developing countries, in the process, we are learning as who came together because they Inxili women. their pieces of the profi t. All the it is a viable way for consumers to students.” are all crafters. money goes back to the producer, address poverty and inequality. The products they import are The women work together “What we are doing as a who receives a fair price in a fair Angelica Lasso, vice-president mostly from South Africa and are rather than by themselves as each college is changing their lives for trade of products. of ACE Niagara, says, “By made by a women’s co-operative. contributes unique skills to the the better.” Goals met with ‘Reaching Higher Plan’ Auxiliary offi cers By ROBYN HOPPER and graduates were satisfi ed that their college education Staff Writer readied them for work. In addition, more students graduated, The results are in. more graduates achieved employment and more employers ready to serve On Dec. 12, Ontario colleges released a 2006 Results were satisfi ed with the graduates they hired. Report, which demonstrated that government investments in The 2006 Results Report outlines each of Ontario colleges By KRISTEN COUGHLAR college education and training have produced new programs and the improvements made possible through the increased Staff Writer and opportunities for students. funding. Sixty-four new OPP auxiliary offi cers have pushed the “Ontario colleges provide a clear and measurable return The report describes Niagara College as “one of Canada’s provincial total in that division to 760 members. on the investment of public dollars,” said Niagara College most innovative and entrepreneurial colleges.” On Oct. 27, the 19 women and 45 men of the Ontario President Dan Patterson adding, “The 65-page 2006 Results Niagara College implemented new programs to address Provincial Police auxiliary program graduated in a Report proves that new funding has improved the quality of the varying entry levels of students including the Enhanced ceremony at ODAS Park in Orillia, Ont. education and training delivered to our students.” Language Training Initiative aimed at new Canadians Many auxiliary members have full-time occupations Niagara’s offi cials state in a press release that the report and eight new academic programs. The programs include since this is an unpaid voluntary position. Inspector provides a comprehensive examination of the results since Personal Support Worker, General Arts and Science College Brian Wagner, program manager, says the diversity of the Ontario government announced funding improvements Path, Landscape Horticultural Techniques, Practical Nursing, skills and life experience that members’ other jobs bring for colleges under its Reaching Higher Plan last year. Welding Techniques, Motive Power Techniques, New Media to the table is “very much” an advantage. The provincial government’s Reaching Higher Plan Web Design and Bachelor of Applied Business – International Wagner elaborated on this point by citing the 1998 ice is making a difference not only for students but also for Commerce and Global Development. storm when hydro lines were down across the province. employers, communities and Ontarians. The college has established an equivalency transfer “Nurses and mechanics were pressed into action. They The report states that Ontario’s 24 colleges steer economic guide and process to meet students’ needs for prior learning were very, very helpful in getting people’s lives back in growth and social prosperity in the province. The ever- assessment and recognition. It has also expanded outreach order.” changing world of technologies continues to change the nature sessions for students with disabilities into secondary schools After completing seven days of training in ethics, of work in every industry area and the general requirements and the community, and involved parents, educational fi rearms and use of force, among other topics, the placed on workers at all levels. resource staff and referring agents. members of the 2006-07 graduating class will go on By investing to improve access, quality and accountability Niagara increased its recruitment and outreach activities in to serve the community through safety projects, traffi c at Ontario’s colleges, the provincial government emphasized First Nation communities and expanded retention activities directing and assisting at crime scenes. the vital role of colleges in creating wealth and prosperity for for Aboriginal students through mid-term and end-of- Asked if there is a strong demand for auxiliary offi cers, Ontarians. term interventions by First Nations staff who can provide Wagner says, “There really is. I’d say there is a demand In the past two years, the Reaching Higher Plan enabled culturally appropriate strategies for at-risk First Nations and and a lot of interest.” He says the program receives 600 Ontario’s colleges to begin rebuilding programs, services Aboriginal students. applications a year. and facilities to support economic growth. The college increased investments in marketing, expanded Wagner says that this interest comes from people who The report shows colleges across Ontario have created the number of presentations to high schools and offered more want to serve their community and gain more knowledge about 200 new programs. In addition to adding programs, information sessions targeting mature students. of police operations. “There is always an interest to see colleges have expanded outreach activities and services to The report outlines that Niagara College was a founding what police work is like.” underserved populations, hired more faculty and student partner in the College Network for Industry Innovation, Interested individuals must be a minimum of 18 years support staff and improved services so that more students which provides expertise and assistance to help industry old, be a Canadian citizen, have an Ontario Secondary would stay in school, graduate and fi nd employment. obtain funding for applied research initiatives. School diploma, Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation and The report explains that colleges have built and equipped Niagara College has used the increase in funding to fi rst aid training, be of good moral character and be state-of-the art learning facilities, developed centres of improve the quality of its learning environment, to increase physically fi t. specialization and introduced new programs to respond to student engagement and to increase student success and Before being accepted to the program, applicants will the shifting labour market and its requirements. Ontario’s satisfaction. undergo an aptitude test, a psychological evaluation, a colleges have also collaborated with businesses, industries “After years of under funding, we have made some background check and a home visit. and organizations to develop programs that will drive important progress,” said Patterson adding, “As Ontario faces Wagner describes the program, which was established economic development and meet community needs. growing economic challenges and pressures, it is important 46 years ago in April of 1960, saying, “It’s taken quite Following two years of funding for colleges under the that we don’t slide backwards. Ontario must continue to some time to get it to the point it’s at now.” Reaching Higher Plan, the report reveals that more students invest in the education and training of its workforce.” Page 4, news@niagara, Jan. 19, 2007 ACE Niagara raises funds for cancer research By MIRA NASSER in Niagara Falls, N.Y. They were invited for networking Robert Greene, a professor in the Business and Staff Writer purposes with the hope that the international business Entrepreneurship Division, says ACE Niagara chose the Networking was the aim of the night at ACE Niagara’s department here will one day establish a connection and society because “it is a charity that affects us all. Every wine and cheese social on Nov. 21. have a joint program with the university. person has been affected by cancer in some way.” Held in the Corporate Training Centre at Niagara College’s Meeting different people and making connections may be After Daley’s speech, the acting dean of the Hospitality Niagara-on-the-Lake campus, the event brought over 125 one aspect of the networking social but the bigger cause was and Tourism division, David Veres, involved participants in students, faculty, alumni and industry people together the Cancer Society contribution. an activity encouraging people to deviate from their comfort for a noble cause: raising money for the Canadian Cancer Angela Daley, fundraising co-ordinator for the society’s zones and meet new people. He says that in order to be Society. Niagara unit, was a guest speaker. She says the mission is successful, people have to smile, make eye contact and, most And raise money they did. At the end of the night, ACE “the eradication of cancer and the advancement of life for important, be themselves. Niagara raised and donated $550 to the society. people living with cancer.” A raffl e draw was held at the end. A multitude of sponsors The evening started off as a networking social with the The society provides support in the local community donated a variety of gifts, from a dinner for two, to winery attendees chatting among themselves while drinking wine through peer services such as cancer patients being paired tours for 10. Among the sponsors were The Keg, Boston and feasting on a wide array of international and Canadian with cancer survivors and also a volunteer transportation Pizza and Inniskillin and Pilliteri Wineries. All proceeds dishes. The $5 ticket for the event included two free glasses program in which volunteers use their vehicles to transport from the draw were donated. of wine donated by Kressman Winery and a diverse selection cancer patients to Hamilton and Toronto for treatment. Greene thanked the sponsors for their contributions as well of food prepared by students in the International Business Daley says about half of the donations made will go toward as the ACE Niagara and International Business students who Management and Human Resources Management (Graduate “valuable research that is done across Canada to further the did the cooking. Certifi cate) programs. cancer cause” and part will reimburse volunteer drivers for David Pastirik, co-ordinator of the International Business Puneet Sharma, 26, is an International Business their mileage. Management (Graduate Certifi cate) program says, “The fi rst Management (Graduate Certifi cate) student who came to Donating to a charity is an important part of the ACE time, it was just a few people networking, but now it has Canada from India. He is part of ACE Niagara and contributed Niagara networking social. Last year, the organization raised grown. At the event, you can see the cultural diversity of the to the event by preparing an Indian dish of chicken. He says $500 for the Canadian Red Cross to assist victims of Hurricane college.” the networking social works as a platform to meet offi cials in Katrina and the earthquakes in India and Pakistan. To learn more about the Canadian Cancer Society, the the International Business department. “We try to change the charities every year so we benefi t services it provides or to make a donation, contact Daley at Offi cials were not the only guests of honour. Among a different charity,” says Kari Spry, president of ACE 905-684-6455 ext. 23. those attending were three students from Niagara University Niagara. Leading lady chefs showcase cooking ‘nobody cooks better than mom’

By KRIS DUBE College’s Niagara-on-the-Lake Staff Writer campus. The wine reception Some of the Niagara region’s starts at 6:30 p.m. with dinner at best female chefs and winemakers 7 p.m. Tickets are $95 and can are coming to the Niagara Culinary be purchased by calling 905-641- Institute (NCI) for the annual 2252 ext. 4619. Showcase of Chefs. There will be two instalments this year, the fi rst on Jan. 25. Featured at this event are leading ladies Virginia Marr, Tara- Lynn Grobb of the NCI, Cathy O’Donnell, owner of Willow Cakes Pastry and Lori Elstone, manager of the Deluca  Cheesemarket, both in Niagara-on- Top 10 the-Lake. RealTraxTM ring tunes “We’re so pleased to showcase the extraordinary talents of these Week of January 8 very accomplished chefs and 1. All I Want for Christmas Is You - Mariah Carey winemakers,” says Niagara College 2. Fergalicious Food and Beverage Manager Jorge - Fergie Dominguez. 3. I Luv It - Young Jeezy “This is also a wonderful 4. I Wanna Love You opportunity for our students to work - Akon alongside some of the top culinary 5. Irreplaceable - Beyonce and winemaking professionals 6. Lips of an Angel Niagara has to offer.” - Hinder All the chefs and winemakers 7. Money In The Bank - Lil’ Scrappy work together as a team to prepare 8. Promise GOT A BUDDY the gourmet meal and “match - Ciara the dinner with the wine,” says 9. Shortie Like Mine - Bow Wow Dominguez. PULLING ANOTHER ALL-NIGHTER? 10. Smack That This is the fi rst time there has - Akon been a Showcase of Chefs at which Text "PLAY" to 4800 on your Rogers wireless the chefs have been exclusively phone to download your favourite ring tunes today. women. In past years all the chefs have been males. Dominguez says that he just “wanted to try something different If gambling is taking over a friend’s life, he could use your help. Find out more at this year.” In culinary advertising there are friends4friends.ca rarely female chefs ever seen, but when people think of food a lot of it comes back to how “nobody cooks better than mom.” 1-888-230-3505 Both the Jan. 25 and March Ontario Problem Gambling Helpline 29 events will be held at Niagara news@niagara, Jan. 19, 2007, Page 5

Photos by Jason Petznick ABOVE-AVERAGE AATHLETETHLETE By JASON PETZNICK fall of 2004. Staff Writer “I chose Niagara College because If you were to see him at home you I thought the business program was would assume that he was just another superior to the other colleges I was student. looking at, and the athletic program He lies on a couch, his six-foot, fi ve-inch seemed very good as well,” says Akins. body leaving no room for anyone else. In his second year at Niagara, Akins Kyle Akins, 20, of Owen Sound, Ont., fi nished fi fth in the Ontario College doesn’t have any fl ashy mannerisms Athletic Association’s West division and that you would typically associate with led the Knights with 3.37 ppg. His totals a college athlete. However, last year he of 115 kills and 17 blocks were also good led the Niagara Knights men’s volleyball enough to lead the Knights. team in points per game (ppg) and had In this season Akins also tallied 14 more than twice as many kills as any service aces, putting him second on the other player for the Knights. Knights in that category. Height 6’5”#13 Age: 20 Hometown: - Kyle Owen Sound, ONAkins Akins has been playing volleyball for This season Akins is second in kills, DRFT: Niagara College 2004 ACQ: Free Agent AVG: 3.37 ppg eight years. He says he signed up for a third in service aces and fourth in beach volleyball clinic at Sauble Beach blocks for the Knights. and then played for his public school “Last semester I got off to a fairly team when he was 12 years old. slow start, but I picked it up by the That summer his mom took him to end and I’ve been playing well Season GP K K/G SA SA/G B watch the beach volleyball nationals at since,” says Akins. 2005 46 115 2.50 14 0.30 Sauble Beach. In the second half of this 2006 18 34 1.89 “I thought it was cool so I wanted to try season, Akins says he is working to improve his blocking and B/G PTS it,” says Akins. 6 0.33 17 0.37 146 3.1 His mom continued to fuel and support serving, as well as increasing PTS/G 4 0. his volleyball career. Akins says she his kill percentage. 22 44 GP = G 7 encouraged him to join a developmental Akins says he also wants to 2.44 SA =Se ames P league when he was in Grade 11 and to help the Knights do something rvice layed K they did three times in the B/G = B Aces join an Ontario volleyball association locks pe SA/G = = Kills K/G club team when he was in Grade 12. fi ve years before he came to r Game PT Service Ac Akins says playing for these teams Niagara. S = es per = Kil Points Game ls per Game helped him develop his skills faster than “My goal for this season PT S/G = B = he ever could have playing solely for his is to lead the team to a Points Blocks per Ga high school team. provincial championship,” me He also had his fi rst experience playing at says Akins. higher level, which really interested him. Akins came to Niagara College in the Page 6, news@niagara, Jan. 19, 2007 NEWSEDITORIALS@NIAGARA

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news@niagara is a practical lab for Journalism-Print program students studying at Niagara College. Opinions expressed in editorials and columns are not those of news@niagara management or the college administration. Columns, identified as such, reflect only the writerʼs opinion. Readers are welcome to respond to columnists by e-mail at [email protected] 2006 WINNER

China, Hong Kong, Korea begin new year For most of us, Jan. 1 means a new year, a new beginning. holiday. It is the busiest travel time of the year as millions of people travel But for some, this new year has yet to begin. across the country to celebrate with their families. It is also the only time The Chinese New Year, a 15-day celebration ringing in the year of the of year when businesses and schools close, and various mandarin orange pig, begins on February 18. tree stands open, much like the Christmas tree stands that open in parking These holidays are based on the Lunar Calendar, so the date changes lots here in December. The Chinese purchase and lug these heavy but tiny every year. The celebration may begin in January or February, and rarely, orange trees home to bring good fortune for the new year. in December. The Chinese, known for their superstitions, are especially diligent about I have been fortunate enough to experience the Chinese New Year first them during the new year. The busiest time of year for maid and houseclean- hand. During my stay in Asia, where I taught English from 2001 to 2004, I ing services, houses are cleaned top to bottom to chase away evil spirits and celebrated the new year in China, Hong Kong and Korea. welcome good spirits. The celebration of the new year in Korea and Hong Kong is pretty much Children receive red envelopes containing small amounts of money. My the same as it is here. Hong Kong is the perfect example of an assimilation friend gave me red envelopes as well, saying, “You’re celebrating for the of Western and Eastern cultures, with its high British and American immi- first time, and you’re excited like a child.” gration rate, as it celebrates the Western New Year’s Eve as well as the Chi- How could I not be? It was as though Christmas came twice for me those nese New Year. years. Koreans celebrate with fireworks, the kind your dad would light up at the I recognize and take with me the experience of learning about differ- end of the driveway when you were little. My Korean friends and I ended ent cultures, and am fortunate enough to have friends from various back- up at a park, joined by thousands of people as they all lit fireworks and grounds. drank beer and soju, a concoction tasting of gin and vodka guaranteed to While distance may separate us, the traditions we pass on and the impor- make anyone sick the next morning. tance of family and friends continue to what binds each and every one of us. In China, I bombarded my Chinese friends with questions about their NADINE WEBSTER Our environment needs immediate attention So far this winter, I’ve managed to use my snowboard twice. constantly, puts extra stress on the environment. Once was on a day trip to Holiday Valley in Ellicottville, N.Y., the other Using a programmable thermostat can also save you money, while further was on a manmade hill behind a friend’s house using Zamboni-deposited reducing greenhouse gas emissions polluting our environment and that snow we took from behind our local arena. Two years ago things were very contribute to global warming. different. Gasoline prices, like our weather lately, have been wildly unpredictable. It’s not just the snowboarders that this unseasonable weather is affecting, Keeping your car well maintained will improve its fuel consumption. Easy however. Steps need to be taken on everybody’s part to combat global maintenance such as changing fuel and oil fi lters, or new spark plugs and warming. wires can improve your fuel economy while reducing emissions. Although our federal government has cancelled many incentives and Check your tires regularly for proper air pressure and go easy on the brake rebates for creating an environmentally friendly lifestyle, taking care of the and gas pedals. world we live in shouldn’t be delayed until the next election. An even easier solution is to not use your vehicle. Find out what public Being energy effi cient is one of the easiest ways to create a lifestyle transit systems are available in your community. The U.S. Environmental healthy for the environment, and your wallet. By replacing conventional Protection Agency says leaving your car at home just two days a week can light bulbs with energy effi cient bulbs, you cut back on greenhouse gas reduce greenhouse gas emissions on an average of 1,590 pounds per year. emissions and save money on your hydro bill. Google ENVIRONMENT to research more ways to be environmentally Keep furnace air fi lters in your home clean, and make sure your heating friendly in your life, and maybe next year we’ll have a white Christmas. and cooling equipment is working properly. Any extra stress on your equipment, especially during winter months when furnaces are running NATE LASOVICH news@niagara, Jan. 19, 2007, Page 7 NEWSCOLUMNS@NIAGARA No need for New Year’s resolutions any I’ve had before. No plans to confi dence [in myself].” The 17- stressful teenaged life. attitude. Instead of looking at the drop some much-needed weight, year-old fi nds herself on a path of Much like I’ve done, the Grade bad things, I will try and look at the no false promises of being more self-improvement, much like I’ve 12 student began to realize the good things.” motivated, no more kidding myself tried throughout the years. downside of upgrading her life, but Interestingly enough, the about saving the world. This year is “My goal isn’t to be cocky. It is she refused to give up. thought of centring my resolution all about making myself happy. My to make myself be happier with After a year of “constantly on the good things in my life had New Year’s resolution: stop making who I am.” complaining to friends and never crossed my mind, my “over resolutions. They are overrated. Shying away from her previous family,” Conte decided it was pessimistic, always noticing the With no resolution weighing year’s resolution of losing weight, time to stop putting herself down bad things,” mind. heavily on my mind, I began to Conte says she learned in 2006 she because she didn’t look like “those It’s Jan. 9, 2007, and, although By KRISTIN RASILE wonder how many other people needed to try to learn “to accept girls on TV.” two weeks late, I have the resolution Columnist fi nd themselves trying to “improve” myself for me.” “[Becoming thinner] was fun of all resolutions: start looking on who they are as the countdown to Making a resolution and keeping while it lasted and I looked damn the bright side. It’s Jan. 1, 2007, and today is the the new year begins. it throughout the year are different good, too. No wait,” she almost I phoned Conte the next day to fi rst day of the rest of my life. With last year fi lled with self- struggles, though. shouts, “I still look damn good.” inform her of my resolution. New Year’s resolutions come and doubt, Diana Conte says she “I did achieve [losing weight] I fi nd myself thinking back to “It’ll never work,” she said. “Do go each passing year, but this year needed to try and accept herself for last year, but I shortly gained it my conversation with my 17- you know you?” is when my resolution becomes who she is. all back.” Conte says her days of year-old cousin who decided the Although she had a point, I look the solution to my problems. “My New Year’s resolution is carb counting and small-portioned most important thing for her is to on the bright side. Now I have My resolution is far simpler than to be confi dent and have more meals added stress to her already “have an open mind and a good someone to prove wrong. The Hour stands on its own Just ignore them a TV series that ran in the fall of that comes with all topics. I didn’t need. 2004 on the CBC. Douglas won His guests have included names After hanging up the phone, by public voting. like Ed Norton, the rock band my mom told me all I had In December of 2004, Stroum- Queen, former vice-president to do was say no right at the boulopoulos left MuchMusic to Al Gore, British MP George beginning. After wasting my host CBC Newsworld: The Hour. Galloway, David Suzuki and many time on the phone with these The show runs from Sunday to more. Even the former governor people, then I had to waste Thursday each week at 11 p.m. general, Adrienne Clarkson, By JULIANNE VAN DYK my time phoning them back to By RYAN MCLEAN and covers politics and current appeared on the show to show her Columnist cancel the insurance. Columnist events for the fi rst half hour and support for Stroumboulopoulos. Saying no is not easy. The second experience entertainment for the latter. Critics have blasted The Hour As a young person, the world happened here at the college. A He’s changing the face of CBC The messy hair, nose ring as nothing more than a cheap of telemarketers is new to me. very nice gentleman approached television. and trademark black shirt knock off of the Daily Show All of us should be familiar with a friend and me and in no time Politics can turn any age coupled with bracelets and a with Jon Stewart. The Comedy the suppertime telephone calls at all we were signed up for a group off, especially the 18 to 35 skull ring, have critics accusing Central’s current event show is from the person on the other end “very special” spa package for demographics. However, George Stroumboulopoulos of being a running strong 10 years after its mangling the pronunciation of a “wonderful” price. It was a Stroumboulopoulos and the kid playing an adult role. When fi rst show; however, after Stewart your last name. “steal of a deal” and we realized CBC are creating excitement by did educating yourself on current delivers his fi ve to 10-minute If you are not the type to hang this after he had left us sitting combining politics and pop culture events become strictly for adults? coverage of headlines, the show up right away, what usually there looking at the brochure from a Canadian perspective. If he can put bodies in the seats descends into obnoxious skits follows is silence at your end and reading the fi ne print. The 34-year-old started out on each night and provide in-depth and childish journalism. while the person on the other end To make the story short, we the radio working for stations analysis on current events, what Even though The Hour is still in tries to sell a product or service. realized this wasn’t for us, and such as The Fan 590 and 102.1 does it matter what he looks like? its infancy, the show demonstrates Recently I had two memorable we chased him down to get our The Edge. Should he wear a bow tie? maturity with a little fun. experiences with such people. money back. When he made his move to He discusses everything Whether you’re a critic or The fi rst began with a phone What I learned from these television as a VJ on MuchMusic, from music to human rights, a fan, Stroumboulopoulos has call from what I believed to be experiences is it doesn’t pay to his career took off. In 2004 he war and health care. Blending demonstrated he is the charismatic my bank. be sucked in by people like this. presented his case for Tommy a comprehensive look with the persona to help lead the CBC into The caller introduced me to a Most of the time when you think Douglas as the Greatest Canadian, humourous side of the absurdity the coming years. special life insurance that would about your decision afterwards be connected to my bank and I you discover that you just would receive the fi rst 30 days lost money on something you of coverage free. Before I knew don’t really need and you were Bystander risks own safety what was happening, I was entrapped by the smooth-talking Continued from page 1 Syndrome, which refers to the only man who decided to risk his signed up for this life insurance words of the crafty salesperson. However, this type of heroic famous New York City murder of life to save another. behaviour should not be limited to the namesake in 1964, studies show While I have high hopes and a New Yorkers. I think if we were if there are a number of witnesses, belief in myself that I would do honest with ourselves, we’d say or bystanders, one is less likely to the “right thing” if I were ever we would be the one to jump on come to the aid of the victim. in a situation such as this, I also the tracks, or to phone 911 while Autrey saw this exact principle recognize that there are other witnessing a violent attack. But in the New York subway station. factors involved and I choose not Column Criteria would we really? About 75 witnesses were waiting to be so naive to believe in true Journalists, including those in the Journalism-Print program at Based on the Kitty Genovese for their trains and Autrey was the heroism — it exists, but … Niagara College, are taught that their reporting must be balanced, fair and objective as possible. That rule must also exist for columns news@niagara written by reporters.In columns, the feelings and opinions of Publishing dates reporters are welcome, but balance, fairness and objectivity must never be disregarded or treated lightly. Our columns, which are Friday, Jan. 26 Friday, Feb. 16 clearly identifi ed as such, do not refl ect the opinions or feelings of Friday. Feb. 2 Friday, Feb. 23 the administration of the news@niagara. Friday, Feb. 9 Friday, March 16 For advertising, contact Laura Tait at The Tribune Friday, April 13 Columns refl ect the opinion of only one person: Phone: 905-732-2414 ext. 281 the writer E-mail: [email protected] Page 8, news@niagara, Jan. 19, 2007

Sleeping Giant

Story and photos by ROBYN HOPPER

earthy tones of green, red, gray and Tourists are told to watch where is one never to be duplicated Haleakala brown. Once lush and fl ourishing, they step in the sub-alpine desert, anywhere else in the world. the vegetation now looks infertile since what looks like piles of dirt Astonishment saturates you and parched. The new environment and rocks are really miniature fl oating weightlessly on an island - journey to is exotic, mysterious and although unique communities of insects of clouds and knowing your feet it may look barren, I learn it is and spiders, which thrive on wind- stand on a dormant volcano at the ‘house of the teaming with rare, native and imported insects, other organic same moment is matchless. endangered plants and animals. matter and moisture from lower Reaching down to collect a rising sun’ Bright white, cottony clouds elevations. rock from the volcano, to keep for You’re driving along the narrow surround you like frothy bubbles Hiking atop the volcano, a souvenir, a park ranger warns winding road, watching the ground in a bath, while the treacherous realizing I’m standing on a me that it is bad luck to remove fade below as sky-high clouds road winds and coils like a snake potentially violent and destructive anything from Haleakala. I ask fl ourish beside you. making a kill. The temperature mountain, an uneasy feeling fl oods him, “Why?” The slender black road constricts, dwindles with each elevation gain. me. It fl ows away when I learn that He passed on to me the Hawaiian inducing anxiety and slight fear, The volcano’s weather is Haleakala’s last eruption was more legend divulging the origin of but the majesty of the bright blue unpredictable and commonly than 200 years ago. Haleakala’s dazzling sunrise. sky and puffy white clouds, melts ranges between fi ve degrees and 18 Gazing out over the colossal Demi-god Maui and his mother, the angst away like butter. Hina. Hina would make kapa Anguish and fascination fi ght the (cloth) from tree bark, and the entire trip to the top. strips would be dyed with brilliant The journey up Maui’s Haleakala designs to form cloth. However, volcano is a fl ight every person the kapa would still be damp when touring Maui should experience. night fell, and Hina would mourn The Hawaiian meaning for the that the sun moved too quickly word Haleakala is “house of the across the sky to dry the cloth. sun,” and the mountain is renowned Knowing his mother’s grief, the for its spectacular and one-of-a- demi-god travelled to Maui and kind views of Hawaiian sunrises. climbed the 10,023-foot summit of I lacked the courage to make Haleakala, where he found the sun the trek in the dark unable to bear sleeping in the giant crater. facing the frigid temperatures of Maui hid until morning and the early morning. watched the sun embark on his daily The 37-mile drive to the top of journey. As the fi rst ray of sunshine the mountain brings you to the appeared, Maui trapped it with his Haleakala Crater at an elevation of twisted coconut fi ber lasso. The 10,023 feet. It is one of the greatest great sun demanded to be released, elevation gains in the shortest but Maui would not let go. “Promise distance in the world and the only me that you will move more slowly one you can drive. degrees Celsius. Conversely, the the far reaches of the untouchable crater forces the broad expansion across the sky.” Left with no choice, Thriving rain forests fl ourish on temperature can plummet to below sapphire sky is an unbelievably of your eyes to view it in one long the sun struck a deal with the brave Haleakala’s windward slopes, with freezing anytime of the year. The liberating realization. Fluffy white stretched gaze. The massive crater demi-god. annual rainfall ranging between daily weather can change rapidly clouds endlessly billow through is 3.5 km by 12.5 km and reaches a The sun agreed to move slowly 120 inches to 400 inches or more. at Haleakala’s high elevation and the sky. depth of 860 metres. for six months of the year, and then Beautiful, lush, vibrant green can vacillate from intense sunlight, Automatically, you feel the cold, I discover the crater was formed move at his preferred pace for the trees, plants and countless varieties thick clouds, heavy rain and high crisp air fi re a chill through your between 120,000 and 150,000 other six months. Maui hurried of blooming fl owers and shrubs winds at any minute of the day. body, birthing goose bumps and a years ago and some of the oldest home to tell his mother the good paint the scenery with rich, Watching the elevation signs, as quick shiver. dated rocks are about 1.1 million news. As a reward, Hina made her brilliant colours of red, yellow, you get closer and closer, is like Leaving the car-packed parking years old. son a new cape and, sure enough, it pink, purple and orange. Increasing watching a suspenseful thriller, lot, a sea of rich reddish brown dirt Deep sloping valleys and sharply dried in one afternoon. elevation fades the vividness of trying not to fall off your seat and and rocks surrounds you, sprinkled studded cones whipped with rich, Wanting to be respectful of the the landscape, it begins to wilt, dying to know what happens next. sporadically with lime green cacti. deep tones of red, yellow, green, remarkable Hawaiian legend, I and a more subdued colour palette Reaching the summit, you feel the Whirling brisk winds weave brown and black sculpt the intensely dropped the rock. emerges. volcano’s great fl ight is conquered. through your hair as you discover evocative and sprawling crater. Descending, the invigorating Colours transform into rich Feeling completely that you’re in and explore the exotic environment. Undoubtedly, the fantastic view experience is my only souvenir. news@niagara, Jan.19, 2007, Page 9 M&M Meat Shops helps school fundraiser By DUSTIN KUYPERS and buying basketballs. Staff Writer During the summers, Landry Quality is and always has been says they host charity barbecues a priority for M&M Meat Shops, every other weekend to help but whenever possible the fi rm’s people from the community raise franchisees always fi nd time to money for local charities. interact with and help out the Landry is also happy to help community. out college students, offering this Robert Landry, owner of the advice: “When your girlfriend shop at 30 Rice Rd. in Welland, is coming over and you’re tired says he always “takes pride in of eating Kraft Dinner, pick up taking the high road on producing a quality product from here and a quality product.” have a premium meal.” Besides the quality of food, Fear not, though, all you Landry also takes pride in the role non-complicated undemanding he and other franchisees are able and unemotionally involved to play supporting Welland and cooking students, for all meals the surrounding area. come with full instructions, so From Nov. 27 until Dec. “even if you’re not a gourmet 2, M&M Meat Shops ran a chef, you will be able to cook fundraiser for surrounding a gourmet meal,” says Landry, schools. Every day of the week laughing. is dedicated to different schools, He also recommends M&M’s and 10 per cent of all proceeds nine new single-serving bowls, from the products purchased by which, he says, are “premium parents of the students are given quality and packed with a very to the schools to spend however high meat content, so you know they see fi t. you’re getting a good meal.” Landry says it is nice for the Landry suggests that students schools to get that “little extra” who keep their eyes open for the they can use. He adds schools sale fl yers and take advantage have used the proceeds for a of the many bargains can fi nd Robert Landry shows off some of the delicacies offered at M&M Meat Shops on Rice Road in Welland. variety of things, including taking affordably priced balanced and Photo by Dustin Kuypers fi eld trips, starting a chess club healthful meals every day. Bowl for the kids with Big Brothers, Big Sisters United Way By JENNIFER DESCHAMPS involvement includes cash of the more recent Tim Hortons one of six camps operating across Staff Writer donations as well as advertising fundraisers to develop. Originating Canada and the U.S. close to goal Be bowled-over by the spirit of support. Lending the Tim Hortons in Hamilton in 1996, Smile Cookies Camp Day is the foundation’s generosity as Tim Hortons sets a name for ads and fl yers is benefi cial helped raise funds for the Hamilton largest fundraiser in which 100 per By KELLY ESSER precedent in the community. because the name carries weight Children’s Hospital. The program has cent of proceeds from coffee are Staff Writer The Bowl for Kids’ Sake program with it and “if we can get our since expanded to help a wide range donated to covering the entire cost for They’re almost there. is one of many local fundraisers Tim support out that way, we like doing of community programs, charities each child to attend camp, including The United Way of South Hortons is “proud to support,” because, it,” says local Tim and hospitals across transportation, food and lodging. Niagara has just about reached according to the website www. Hortons owner Canada, providing The Timbits Minor Sports its $1.12 million goal for the timhortons.com, “serving the community John A. Craig. a “unique way” for program provides sponsorship for community. means more than just coffee.” Craig, with his Tim Hortons owners children from ages four to eight Although the 2006 campaign The program, organized by Big father, owns and to give back to the who participate in local house fell a little short of that mark, the Brothers and Big Sisters agencies operates three community. league sports teams. Instead of $1.03 million raised is a record for in conjunction with Tim Hortons, Tim Hortons Craig says the worrying about winning or losing, the agency. is raising funds to help provide locations in funds raised by the focus is on learning how to play Dan Degazio, chair of the mentors for children from the ages Welland including Smile Cookies in the a new sport, developing friendships fundraising drive, says the of six to 18. 563 Niagara St., Niagara region this and just being a kid. campaign is important. The fundraising event for the 30 Rice Rd. and past year amounted With more than 120,000 “United Way volunteers spend Niagara region will be taking place at 852 Niagara St. to about $4,500 and children involved in Timbits hundreds of hours each year the Cataract Bowling Alley in Niagara “What sets Tim went to the YMCA sports, Craig says the program is assessing programs that can serve Falls on Feb. 17 with start times of 3 Hortons apart is for support programs one of the most important aspects anyone in Pelham, Port Colborne, p.m., 5 p.m., 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. their involvement in everything,” to subsidize payments for low- of community involvement for Wainfleet and Welland. Last year Thanks to last year’s success in says Craig. Expectations are put income families. Tim Hortons. It supports a range the United Way South Niagara the Bowl for Kids’ Sake campaign, on storeowners to be involved The Tim Hortons Children’s of sports including baseball, funded 57 programs at 31 agencies Big Brothers and Big Sisters was in the community because “Tim Foundation is a non-profi t organization basketball, hockey, and soccer — but the volunteers did wish they able to serve over 1,200 children Hortons is a part of people’s lives.” “committed to providing a fun-fi lled and provide jerseys and balls for had more money to support all the in the Niagara region. The goal According to Craig, it is important camp environment for children from all the teams. things they saw as worthwhile. for this year is to raise $340,000 in for owners to give back to the economically disadvantaged homes,” For further information on This figure of $1,031,115.72 is funds to be dispersed to agencies community to show appreciation says the website. Bowl for Kids’ Sake visit www. as a result of those deliberations. throughout the region, ensuring and thank customers. Since its creation in 1974 more bowlforkidssake.com or pick Included in the total is the 12 per that every child who needs a mentor The Smile Cookies Program, than 83,000 children have been up a pamphlet at one of the Tim cent that it costs to administer the will receive one. providing double-sized smiling given the opportunity to take part Hortons locations throughout United Way each year.” As a title sponsor, Tim Hortons’ cookies for a limited time, is one in a 10-day summer session at the region. The United Way of South Niagara funded 57 programs through 31 agencies, including the Big Brothers/Big Sisters of South OPSEU president will not run for re-election Niagara, The Hope Centre, Meals on Wheels Port Colborne Inc., Port By TOM RISHAUR Casselman, who has been re- the policies of the new Mike absolutely the right president Cares and Women’s Place of South Staff Writer elected as president of OPSEU Harris government. for those historic times.” Niagara. Leah Casselman, long-time six times, says with the provincial “It was mind boggling,” OPSEU represents employees Niagara College was tabbed for president of the Ontario Public election coming in the fall, the says Casselman, “With 60,000 of community colleges and the best public sector campaign, Service Employees Union new president will have time to workers striking, the government universities, the government, while the Niagara Catholic District (OPSEU), has announced that get his or her feet wet before any had zero respect for them.” courts, hospitals, cultural School Board was second. she will not run for re-election big negotiations. Sherri Rosen, president of institutions, ambulance services, To make a donation, send it to this year. “It’s the perfect time for the Niagara College’s OPSEU social service agencies and the the United Way of South Niagara, “It was a jam-packed 12 years. union to renew itself.” Local 242, says Casselman LCBO. 800 Niagara St., Seaway Mall, I don’t know what I’ll do now, First elected in 1995, handled the job exceptionally The union will elect a new Welland, Ont. L3C 5Z4 or call the but it will be a new and exciting Casselman was soon faced with during that strike and another president at its annual convention offi ce at 905-735-0490. experience,” says Casselman, 52. a provincewide strike against in March 2006. “She was in April. Page 10, news@niagara, Jan. 19, 2007 Experimental teaching styles pay off

By BRE KIBBLER teach at Niagara College. Upon her student in the Enhanced Language that learning through involvement Staff Writer arrival, Anzovino says she real- Training to Employment program, refl ects a teaching style that is en- Not only has Theresa Anzovino ized there is a diversity of learning in an essay about the Intercultural gaged, transformative, critical and tossed her textbook, but she is styles among her students. Communications course. community based. abandoning her classroom as “In order to meet the challenges Anzovino also connects the “Often it is the fi eld trip you well. of diversity in the classroom, I try classroom with the community by took or the real-life experience Anzovino, a professor of to utilize a variety of instructional taking advantage of the benefi ts and dialogue that connected your sociology at Niagara College’s methods,” says Anzovino. fi eld trips offer. classroom learning to the living Niagara-on-the-Lake campus, Her Intercultural Communica- Last term, two Law and Security community,” says Anzovino. says she believes experimental tions class is a classroom fi lled with Administration (LASA) classes Anzovino’s students often praise education builds an engaging newcomers to Canada with various travelled to the Canadian Border her for adapting to their different learning community where the cultural backgrounds. Instead of Security Agency to learn more learning styles. student and teacher benefi t. learning from standard texts and about their fi eld of study. “Thanks, Theresa, [for] your “By taking learning beyond the handouts, Anzovino chooses to let “It helped us witness our future behaviour with people who have textbook and four walls, students the students share their cultures’ careers up close and personal,” says to start again far away from their use a conceptual framework that different sociological aspects. Michele Maricic, a second-year countries,” says Velez. incorporates experience, critical Then students compare them with student in the LASA program. Anzovino says all of the stu- thinking, refl ection and action,” the other students’ cultures as well Students witnessed the actual dents she teaches and interacts says Anzovino. as Canadian history. processing of an applicant, a dem- with touch her life as well. After 15 years in the voluntary “This is a teaching style that onstration of the latest technology “Students at Niagara College sector in Fort Erie, Anzovino left permits everyone to see the world in fi ngerprinting and the effi ciency have taught me that there are no Submitted Photo her position as chief executive of- THERESA ANZOVINO with different eyes and a differ- of canine units. know limits — only possibilities fi cer of a multicultural centre to ent mind,” writes Wilson Velez, a Anzovino says she believes and opportunities.” History becoming interactive Liberals award By LAURA NARDUCCI asks if you want to fi nd out. Staff Writer “You’re sent through a magic time tunnel and fi nd To us, it’s boring. With a click of the mouse, out for yourself if life back then was better or worse ‘teaching excellence’ though, it can become fun. than today.” Some students fi nd history to be dull and boring, The game is in preliminary testing. Family so much so that they dread attending class. The members and the children of other professors play By RYAN MCLEAN lucky may get a teacher who treats history as an it to see what it is like. Staff Writer exciting story. “They are intrigued because they’ve never seen The McGuinty government is Kevin Kee, Brock University’s assistant history history like this before. launching a new award for teachers professor, is one of those teachers. Kee not only “Last week I watched an eight-year-old play the who excel at their jobs. wants to make history interesting, but he also wants game. Even though she was younger than our target “We are on the side of hard- to take it to the next level. audience, she was enraptured.” working Ontario families who want For the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812, Although Kee teaches now, he says he was unsure their sons and daughters to fi nd Kee plans to have an interactive history computer of what he wanted to do in life. opportunity,” said Chris Bentley. game available to students. “When I was an undergrad, I had a seven point “That’s why our government is “I’m working with my students to create higher average in biology. I like history though, so committed to promoting teaching simulations that will focus on this region and the I made it my major. excellence at our colleges and War of 1812. “I won scholarships and continued school doing universities by rewarding the By the end of the year in April we will have some what I liked at the time. Because I kept winning teaching efforts of faculty who go simulations ready for it,” says Kee, in a telephone scholarships, I was paid to go to school and became the extra mile to provide students interview. an accidental professor.” with an outstanding learning While playing the game, students will be able Kee worked at the National Film Board designing experience.” to go through historical documents, visit historical websites while researching history. It was because Winners of the leadership in places in the Niagara region and see what life was of this that Kee decided to combine history and faculty teaching (Lift) award will Submitted Pr hoto like close to 200 years ago. computer games. receive $20,000, paid out over two CHRIS BENTLEY Before starting this project, Kee was involved in “You can do certain things with a computer game years. creating a computer game depicting life in a French- that you can’t do in books. In class, I tell you what Asked how the ministry would from average, working-class speaking Quebec village in 1890. to read and you have to follow along in a linear defi ne who the best is, the ministry families struggle to go to university, The game is a prototype, a virtual environment pattern. In a game, it’s your decision.” turned to those who know teaching I think the money should be where the player can explore what life was like 116 Kee says most people today watch movies and excellence best — publicly funded directed to subsidized tuition years ago. play computer games. Since most don’t read history post secondary institutions, student programs. I believe that if you “It’s geared to Grade 5 students,” Kee says. for fun, Kee wanted to make history more accessible and faculty — to help design become a teacher, no matter what “You start in a bookstore and hear people talking to the average person. the criteria and measurements. level you teach, you do it because about life in 1890. They ask the question: Was life “Canadian history is important. People like his- The details are nearly fi nalized, you are committed to developing better then or today? Someone comes up to you and tory; we just have to give them a way to access it.” said Tanya Blazina, senior media excellence in others,” said Melanie relations co-ordinator. Douglas, teacher and secondary “In order to sustain and schools teacher consultant. enhance the quality of post- Nancy Geddie, co-ordinator of secondary education in Ontario, the Public Relations (Graduate Student loves every aspect of program our government believes that it is Certifi cate) program here, said in important to recognize and affi rm all professions there are awards for By JULIANNE VAN DYK Her life is a busy one with a at the Hotel Dieu Shaver Health our province’s leading faculty. They excelling in the job and teachers Staff Writer part-time job at Albright Manor in and Rehabilitation Centre in St. help nurture and inspire our future could have the same opportunities, Niagara College has another Beamsville and a full course load Catharines, where she helps out generations, and I am pleased that but perhaps a “scholarship for satisfi ed student. here. with activities and rehabilitation our government has created this students in the name of the winning Marlene Otten, 19, is in the sec- Her job is similar to the one of patients. award program to honour their teacher” would have more impact ond year of the Recreation and she hopes to have once she has She says, for example, last valuable contributions,” said Ted than a quick payout. Leisure Services program at Nia- graduated, and she says she will week she took patients out on a McMeekin, MPP for Ancaster- “Our goal is to recognize gara College’s Welland campus. apply for a full-time position shopping outing. The point of the Dundas-Flamborough-Aldershot, and support the importance of “It’s a lot of work but it’s fun, there. rehabilitation is to get patients who joined Bentley at McMaster teaching in Ontario’s universities especially since everyone knows Otten says she is hoping to work back out doing what they like University in Hamilton on Sept. 1. and colleges,” said Bentley. “This each other.” in a long-term care facility with doing. Teachers are considered the new provincial teaching award She says her schoolwork is a lot seniors or possibly in a hospital She says she chose the program foundation of the country’s next for college and university faculty of group work, planning ahead, setting. “because I like organizing and great minds, but not all teachers feel underlines the value we place on some written work and evaluating She said the favourite part of planning and I love people, and a monetary value is appropriate. teaching excellence in the post- other programs and activities. her course is her fi eld placement the program has both.” “At a time when many students secondary environment.” news@niagara, Jan. 19, 2007, Page 11 Alternative lifestyle makes for life full of tough choices ‘You just have to develop tough skin and go into new things with a positive attitude’

By RACHEL TATTERSALL thought being gay was a “teenage phase,” cure, and I hope that will always be so.” said, ‘Whatever, as long as you’re happy.’” Staff Writer but she doesn’t let it get to her. Tino Berardi, 22, says he was in Grade 7 One drawback Berardi faces is people There are things about all of us that are Cochrane says she feels she is treated dif- when he fi rst had feelings for other boys. He sometimes spread rumours about him. Peo- different, but some young adults live a life- ferently at the workplace. says he didn’t really think anything of it until ple he barely knows say things about him style that other people don’t understand. “I often don’t come out at work because he got into high school and realized not ev- that are not true and this can hurt his good Many people have hard decisions to face people begin to avoid certain conversations eryone felt the way he did. reputation. when they are becoming a teenager; one with me and are not as open.” The Welland native says he also had feel- He says that this upsets him more than of them is knowing whether they’re gay or She says the hardest obstacle she faces ings for girls in high school and dated two anything else. straight. as a young gay woman is that “people of- girls for short periods of time. He had the He says he never has a problem with peo- Amanda Cochrane, 20, of St. Catharines, ten pretend to be OK with gay people, but opportunity to experiment with another boy ple at work or in society. Everyone at work says she came out when she was 17, but she when it comes down to it, there’s prejudice in Grade 9, but after that experience, people is “really nice” to him and treat him like any- knew she was gay when she was 12. Co- in everyone.” found out about their relationship and they one else and with respect. chrane said with a laugh, Although the laws have changed over the were not easy on him. “You just have to develop tough skin and “I came out to my mother at 16 because years, Cochrane says gay people are still “Not many people were out at that time, go into new things with a positive attitude.” she read my diary.” viewed in a negative way, as they were in so I got made fun of a lot. My friends would Sometimes Berardi has bad days but, over- She says she knew there was something years before. stick up for me though, but people from high all, he says he is happy with his life and the different about her when she was a child, but She still seems to have a lot of confi dence school have grown up and treat me better way things have turned out. she didn’t know what it was. Then, when she when it comes to being open in public with nowadays.” “I just feel like my business is my business found out what gay was, she knew. her relationships. Berardi’s sister and mother are “very sup- and no one should judge me based on what She says she feels that people sometimes “When I walk down the street, I hold my portive” of his lifestyle and stand by him 100 happens behind closed doors. I’ve accepted stereotype her and think she should have girlfriend’s hand and ignore the comments per cent, he says. the fact that I’m gay, so other people should short hair or hate boys. People have also made by passersby. I feel confi dent and se- “I came out to my mother at 18 and she too. I love being gay.” Canada becomes fourth country to recognize same-sex marriages

By KRISTIN RASILE two people involved, but changing the traditional defi nition Staff Writer of marriage is not something she would agree to. Flipping through a dictionary won’t help defi ne marriage. “It just seems like gay people take their rights In June 2005, Bill C-38 passed its fi nal reading in the to the extreme.” House of Commons, making Canada the fourth country to Scigliano, a Catholic, says she is for gay marriage, but recognize same-sex marriages. thinks it should “be up to certain churches to decide whether The decision to recognize same-sex marriages allows ho- or not they want to perform these ceremonies.” mosexual marriages to be performed in eight of 10 provinces Shortly after Bill C-38 was passed, amendments were in- and in one of three territories. troduced to ensure religious groups and charitable organiza- Alberta, Prince Edward Island, Nunavut and the Northwest tions were not forced into performing marriages of partners Territories do not perform such marriages; however, Nuna- of the same sex. vut will recognize marriages performed in other provinces. The CBC website says Harper’s promise of reopening the In an interview, Prime Minister Stephen Harper tells gay marriage debate is expected to face a preliminary vote CBC he believes homosexual couples should be recognized in December. through civil unions and promised a free vote on the issue of Since the passing of Bill C-38, about 10,000 same-sex changing the defi nition of marriage during last year’s cam- couples have been married and Toronto’s Gay Pride Parade paign run. you want to put your spouse on your benefi ts.” has become the second-largest annual celebration in North “I think marriage is a union between two people who are Lara Conte, 21, of Newmarket, Ont., says she isn’t against America to honour gay life. in love, regardless of their sex,” says 22-year-old Claudia gay marriage, but she doesn’t want to have to hear about it. “I think same-sex couples deserve the same rights as eve- Scigliano, of Peterborough, Ont. She says marriage is “really “They [homosexuals] take marriage too far by fl aunting ryone else,” says Scigliano. “I don’t see how it affects people important” for both gay and straight couples “especially if it.” Conte says getting married is no one’s business but the who are not gay, so why not?” North Korea tests nuclear weapons

By MICHAEL SPECK event that brought happiness to our Niagara College Law and Staff Writer military and people. The nuclear Security Administration student On Oct. 9, North Korea said it test will contribute to maintaining Chris Majtenyi, 20, of St. performed its fi rst ever nuclear peace and stability in the Korean Catharines, said he feels threatened weapons test. peninsula and surrounding region,” by the North Korea nuclear The underground test was said the KNCA. weapons test. performed successfully, and On Oct. 5, Canada’s Minister “I think if the States invades there was no radioactive leakage, of Foreign Affairs Peter MacKay North Korea, then Iran will attack according to the North’s offi cial said North Korea’s announcement the States. Then it would be like a Korean Central News Agency had the Canadian government third world war,” said Majtenyi. (KCNA). deeply concerned. MacKay said Canada should have its own The KNCA added this was “a North Korea’s statement was nuclear weapons program to defend stirring time when all the people of “very provocative,” and that the its sovereignty, says Majtenyi. the country are making a great leap action “is unacceptable to Canada, “Nobody should have it, but if forward in the building of a great as it is to the entire international other countries are going to have and prosperous very powerful community.” it, Canada should have it to watch socialist nation.” MacKay said, “Canada has their back,” said Majtenyi. On Oct. 3, North Korea said repeatedly called on North Korea For the past year, North Korea has it would conduct a test, causing to dismantle both its missile and refused to attend international talks regional concern and diplomatic nuclear weapons programs, or risk aimed at persuading it to disarm. In efforts aimed at dissuading the further international isolation and 2003, North Korea pulled out of the move. In the past, North Korea has condemnation. We will raise our Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty claimed to have nuclear weapons, objections with North Korea every after American offi cials accused Cpl. Jason Armstrong and Peter Rivest, 21, both of St. Catharines, but has never performed a known opportunity we get, and we will it of conducting a secret nuclear stand atop a M113 Armoured Personnel Carrier at the Canadian test to prove it. again strongly urge North Korea to program, a violation of an earlier Armed Forces Lincoln and Welland Regiment. “The nuclear test is a historic return to the six-party talks.” nuclear pact. Photo by Michael Speck Page 12 news@niagara, Jan. 19, 2007 news@niagara, Jan. 19, 2007, Page 13

Graduate nominated By NADINE WEBSTER “A lot of people think of it as Staff Writer a narrow fi eld,” says Alexander It’s an honour just being McGlashan, co-ordinator for the nominated. Photonics Engineering Technician Ryan S. Glaves, a graduate of program, “but you can use it in any Niagara College’s fi rst class of industry.” Photonics Engineering Technology, is McGlashan says the program one of four graduates nominated for a covers a broad range of technologies. Premier’s Award. Students learn everything hands-on, The Premier’s Awards are presented from lighting systems to holograms to annually to honour the achievements vacuum systems to laser machines. of Ontario college graduates. “It’s very much CSI in nature for a “I’m actually really fl attered,” lot of stuff we do,” he says, referring Glaves said, in a telephone interview. to the popular television show. “A lot of other people are just as Glaves says what he learned at worthy as I am. I’m fortunate to stand Niagara College is applied daily in out among the rest.” his fi eld. Glaves graduated from the “Most of the classes were helpful Photonics Engineering Technology and skilful. The courses were set up program in 2004, and in less than logistically. It all contributed, adding three years, has become the laser one little aspect to everyday duties. I applications and training manager really enjoyed it. I stuck with it and I for Foba Lasers: A Virtek Company in worked hard.” Waterloo, Ont. Photonics is the study of light and He joined the program when it was the manipulation of light for a specifi c founded in 2001. application. “I was concerned at fi rst of the “People use it every day and don’t layout of the program, but Niagara know it,” says Glaves. He lists a College has a solid background and few examples, such as the bar code history of being a good technical scanner at the grocery store, or the school,” he says. “It gave me the tools CD player in your car. Even the anti- and gave me the knowledge to take refl ective coating on eyeglasses is this job.” photonics based. Glaves says he was looking Glaves says he enjoys the for something in the technical or responsibility of being manager. engineering fi eld that was new to the “It’s building something new. The industry and new to industry thinking. responsibility to take a project and It was at an information session that build it from the ground up. Who “the ball started rolling” and where knows what it will bring?” The Premier’s Awards will be

Photonics he learned of the job prospects for graduates. presented in February in Toronto.

Centre: An argon laser is featured in the photonics lab. Outer images: A photonics lab laser is demonstrated at the Niagara College Welland campus. Photos and pagination by Laura Narducci Page 14, news@niagara, Jan. 19, 2007 NEWIN THES@ SPOTLIGHTNIAGARA Popular radio personality overcomes impoverished childhood By AMY MINOR it in the clubs. It’s what I do, and I love only person in the world who knows now is so that it will benefi t him in the future. Staff Writer every second of it.” Mottley says, though, absolutely everything about me.” Mottley He can’t wait to retire and sit in a hammock They call him The Dreaded One. that in the business he has chosen, it’s not says that his daughter has him wrapped on an island somewhere with not a worry in Corey Mottley, 29, of St. Catharines, all fun and games. around her little fi nger. “She knows exactly the world. “I’m eventually going to go home Ont., known to many as “The Dreaded One “In the entertainment how to look at me to get to Trinidad and sit on a strip of white beach Corey Mottley,” is one of the most talked- industry, it’s tough. A exactly what she wants,” that is all mine. That is why I work so hard about radio personalities in the Niagara lot of people only want he says with a laugh. now.” Mottley says he considers himself to area. Mottley, the on-air personality of the to know you because of Mottley talks for a be a complex character. evening show on CKEY-FM WiLD 101, what you do for a living, living. That’s what he “I wish I could be a fl ying lion,” he says. says it doesn’t matter how you look at it, not who you are as a does. If he isn’t talking “I defi nitely think that I have the leadership music is his life. person.” He often fi nds on-air, then he’s being an skills that it takes to be the king of the jungle. Mottley, who comes from an extremely it hard to relax. “When MC in the clubs, hyping I am confi dent enough to honour the lion in underprivileged upbringing, says he you eat, sleep and breathe up the crowds, but when its greatness. I want the wings because I have thinks he has proven he can overcome any your work, you’re bound asked if he could describe always wanted a bird’s-eye view. I would obstacle life might throw at him. to have stress.” the best day of his life, love to fl y.” “I grew up in the projects. I mean, like, There are a few things, Mottley sat speechless. Mottley says the best way to describe literally, the projects. I was just one of though, Mottley says After a few moments of himself is as a people person. many bi-racial kids in the neighbourhood, he can do when he just silence, he went on to say “I feed off of people. I will eat your energy, all surrounded by addicts. Drugs, sex, wants to get away for that his life has been so multiply it and spit it right back to you. I love violence, it didn’t matter what. It seemed a while.”I love sitting eventful, there is no way being in the public eye. I love being around like everyone there never knew where around playing with my that he could decide. people. I got this personality type to use it, their next meal was coming from.” little girl. She’s so much “My life has been a not to ignore it.” Mottley says that it wasn’t the easiest or like me it’s sick.” defi nitely amazing trip Mottley says if he wasn’t doing what he’s best place in which to grow up. “It almost There are a few things up to now. There is no doing today, he doesn’t know what he would sets you up for failure,” he says. Instead of that are more fun when Local radio DJ Corey Mottley way I could choose one be doing. He says he can’t see himself doing letting it bring him down, Mottley made he’s feeling a little from CKEY-FM WiLD 101 gets day. Every day is a new anything other than being a disc jockey and it his ambition to overcome it, conquer it stressed. “Sex. Sex is the crowd pumped and ready miracle.” Mottley says MC. It’s the profession he has wanted to be and live out his dreams. When asked how always a great stress for the show. while most of his views in since he was little. he would best describe himself, Mottley reliever. If it were my Photo by Amy Minor on life are rather cut and When asked what his ultimate goal in life replied, “I’m energetic, enthusiastic, a choice, I would relax like dried, his thoughts on is, Mottley bowed his head and he grew quiet perfectionist, demanding and obsessive,” that all the time.” religion and spirituality are a different story. for a while. adding with a laugh, “in a good way Standing at about six foot two and with “I fully believe that religions are nothing “If I can be half as good of a role model though.” Mottley says that he has few dreadlocks all the way down his back, but money-grabbing, brainwashing to my kids as my parents and grandparents hobbies outside of work that don’t involve Mottley is noticed when he enters a room. organizations. Spirituality, on the other were, I will have done a great job.” music, although he considers himself to He comes off to many as harsh, blunt hand, is a great thing to keep close to your Mottley says he has achieved a lot more of be a workaholic who can’t seem to get and quite sarcastic but there is a lot more heart. Faith just allows you to enter into the his dreams in 29 years than a lot of people do away from his work. to him than meets the eye. Mottley says unknown and to give you a reason to wake in a lifetime, and for that, he is thankful. “Music is what I do. If I’m not doing it at that he has a lot of soft spots. up every day.” More information can be found at http:// work, I’m listening to it at home or playing “My bird is my best friend. He is the Mottley says the reason he is a workaholic www.wild101.com. Ice storm leaves students in the dark Diamonds fund African civil war By MARCUS YOUNGREN She states that the soldiers school knew who I was.” This, Staff Writer would mockingly tease pregnant combined with her outspoken Diamonds come at a cost much women on the sex of their personality and natural greater than their retail value. upcoming child. They jokingly leadership skills, made her a Willhemina Deke, of St. bickered, one choosing to believe prominent fi gure throughout her Catharines, emigrated from the child was a boy and the other years in university. Sierra Leone, Africa in 1999. a girl. To fi nd out who was right, “People have always asked She came to Canada during a the heartless soldiers would slit me to speak for them. I love to time of great turbulence in her the woman’s stomach open. help people and am not afraid to country. “They did many terrible speak my opinion.” Deke states the hardships things.” After her surprising release in her country started in 1991. On a trip to a nearby village, from the hands of the RUF, Deke Neighbouring country Liberia, Deke was captured. The brutes managed to reach a refugee torn by civil war, asked Sierra killed countless individuals and camp in Guinea. She spent three Leone’s government for rounded up women to act as their months there and then went to permission to set up military cooks and sex slaves. Senegal, where she spent nine barracks along the border. Deke was one of those months before being approved When Sierra Leone refused, the women. to come to Canada. Liberian-backed Revolutionary As she hiked with a group of Between 1991 and 1999, United Front (RUF) invaded. militia and a few other captured 50,000 to 75,000 people were The RUF used diamonds women, Deke admits she feared killed in Sierra Leone and mined in Sierra Leone to fund for her life. Little did she know more than two million lost their its war. something was about to happen homes. Deke recalls some of the that she now calls “a blessing In addition to the bloodshed, horrifi c things she saw during from God.” Sierra Leone lost hundreds of this time. After walking two miles millions of dollars that could She states, “They would outside the village in which have been used to legitimately capture men, hold them down she was captured, the leader of boost the nation’s economy. and say, ‘Long sleeve or short the gang pulled her aside and The RUF still maintains some sleeve?’ Then, depending on the asked if she knew who he was. control over diamond mines answer, cut their arm off at the Frightened at what the man was in the northern parts of the wrist or the elbow.” going to do to her, she honestly country. Loss of power because of downed ice-coated power lines in Welland She declares it was not safe to replied she did not know. To her Dekes states many horrifi c left Niagara College’s Welland campus students in the dark. Failure to travel on the roads, adding the surprise, he answered he knew things happened and still do. regain power for three hours resulted in all day classes being cancelled RUF set up checkpoints where who she was from university. Despite this, she admits she on Jan. 15. men were often captured and While attending teacher’s would have stayed in Africa if Photo by Michael Dach women violently raped in front college, Deke acted as a prefect, her mother hadn’t been killed. of their husbands. adding, “A lot of people in “Sierra Leone is my home.” news@niagara, Jan. 19, 2007, Page 15 It’s never too late to follow a dream By MIRA NASSER him to leave,” she recalls. “But he brother of Shommer’s closest at the International Academy of businesses. Keeping in mind she Staff Writer said he left one home [in Nazareth friend. Within the space of a year, Design and Technology in Toronto had to satisfy clients on both sides It’s a one-woman show as Lorain during the 1948 war] and he will they were married and she was off in the fashion design program. of the spectrum, she made them Shommer runs from one end of not leave another one, so she took to the U.A.E. to start a new chapter She completed her studies in the offers they could not refuse to buy the cramped offi ce to another, us and left him.” of her life. summer of 2005 and returned to the and sell their goods. To top it all scrambling to answer phones and Leaving her grandfather behind “Nasser wanted children right U.A.E. to put all she had learned to off, she now works 11-hour days write down orders. was the least of their worries. away, but I wanted to wait a few good use. for the benefi t of her own business For the fi rst time in 30 years, she Two of her brothers were still years and adjust to everything “When I came back, I was and not anyone else’s. is her own boss. It doesn’t matter somewhere in Jerusalem and they around me. I wish I hadn’t have looking for a place to open up a As for her dream to go into that her offi ce in Abu Dhabi, could not reach them. Their best done that.” fashion house. Somewhere where I fashion, Shommer says it is very United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.), is hope was to continue on to Jordan At the age of 26, Shommer went can design and sell clothes in one much alive. in a building 20 minutes away from and hope they would fi nd her through early menopause and place, sort of like a workshop,” she “Sometimes, you have to go to any real civilization. It doesn’t brothers there. doctors in the U.A.E., England and recalls of her ambitions. “But when where the money can be made but matter that the inside smells like a “When we got to Jordan, we I still love fashion and one day, I damp basement and looks like one went to a Palestinian refugee camp will open up my very own designer too. It is hers and that is all that and found them there,” she says. fashion label.” matters. “They had a few cuts and bruises Just as her business was getting In a few short months, Shommer from fi ghting their way onto a into full swing, Shommer got some had established her position as a truck to Jordan but they were okay bad news when, on Feb. 13, 2006, competitor in the world of trading otherwise.” her father passed away from a goods. She serves as a go-between A few months later, their parents heart attack following a stroke. She for clothing and furnishing enrolled them in a boarding school immediately returned to Jordan to companies in China and India in Lebanon and life was back to help her mother and returned a few who want to sell their products to normal. weeks later to the U.A.E. with her businesses operating in the U.A.E. “For the 10 years we lived in mother by her side. Her natural charm appeals to Lebanon, both in the north and However, more misfortune was clients as they place their orders south, I was in charge of all fi ve of about to hit when, 40 days after her for uniforms or bedding for my brothers and sisters. The only father’s death, her mother slipped the growing staff they have to time we saw my parents was during into a coma following a mild heart accommodate. She recently landed the holidays.” attack and on April 19, 2006, she her biggest account with one of It was while she was at boarding passed away after complications the fastest growing construction school that Shommer developed a from pneumonia. companies in the Middle East to love for fashion. She would spend “My father always used to say he clothe all 18,000 of their staff. hours mulling over the French could not live without my mother, “I wasn’t expecting to have to fashion magazines sold in Lebanon I guess it was the same for her. She provide uniforms for that many and, once she learned how to sew, Lorain Shommer, surrounded by a mess of folders and papers, could not live without him either,” people,” she says with a laugh. “I she began copying the designs she completes shipment orders from her offi ce in Abu Dhabi, U.A.E. she says. “I think my mother held had to work very fast to complete saw in the pages of the magazines. Photo by Mira Nasser on a while longer to make sure we their order and, in the end, I realized “Fashion, to me, was a way were all okay and then she went I can do it [be successful] if I really to close myself off for a bit and France told her she would never I analyzed the market, I found it back to him. It was where she want to and I work hard at it.” concentrate on something other have children. However, some would be too costly and the society always belonged.” Working hard is something that higher force must have been at play might not embrace it so I started After dealing with her parents’ comes naturally for Shommer. because by the age of 32, Shommer looking for something else to do.” deaths, Shommer resumed She’s worked all her life to reach ‘My priority is had two children and had defeated She chose to trade with goods working by immersing herself in the point where she can control her now my business. the odds. such as clothing after a friend of her business. In the following six own destiny. For the next 17 years, Shommer hers complained that her husband months, Shommer would visit Born in Jerusalem in 1955, her I know if I work concentrated on work and family. could not fi nd any suitable uniforms a myriad of places, including childhood was spent in a boarding hard enough, it’ll Even though she worked 11-hour for his employees for a low cost. In Tunisia, Spain and Hong Kong, school while her father worked in days, she always had time for her a market as volatile as the U.A.E.’s, and establish sound connections Saudi Arabia with her mother by happen.’ family. As the years moved on, she prices were continually increasing worldwide. his side. Holidays were spent with realized what she wanted most out as large foreign corporations took “My priority now is my business. her maternal grandparents, who than taking care of my sisters and of life was to own and run her own hold in the region. This made it hard I want to establish myself as a real took care of her and her siblings brothers.” business. for smaller companies to fi nd what competitor in the trades market and during their short breaks at both Upon graduation, however, her “I knew I wanted to open up a they wanted at a price that would make my name known. I know if I Christmas and Easter. life took a different turn. The start café or a designer boutique. I had not cost them their business. work hard enough, it’ll happen.” In 1967, her tender existence of the Lebanese civil way in 1976 the resources at my disposal, but I It was with this thought in mind was shattered as Israeli forces jeopardized her chance to continue didn’t have the knowledge of what that Shommer opened her own raided Jerusalem in a six-day war. with fashion at a leading design it would be like to run my own small business to help other small The war broke out as she and her school in Lebanon. Instead, she business,” she says nonchalantly. sister were returning home at moved with her family to Jordan “So I went to Canada and enrolled the end of the school year. When and went to a secretarial school. It in college.” they reached her grandmother’s was the fi rst time since she was old Shommer was 47 years old when 62148918 house, they quickly fl ed with her to enough to attend school that she she arrived in Canada in September neighbouring Jordan to seek safety, had lived in the same country as 2002 and enrolled in the fashion leaving the “stubborn” grandfather her parents. design program at Mohawk behind her. It was while she was in Jordan College in Hamilton, Ont. After FOR ALL YOUR FINANCIAL NEEDS “My grandmother argued with that she met the man she was to she had earned her certifi cate, my grandfather, trying to convince marry. Nasser Nasser was the Shommer continued her education POUR TOUS VOS BESOINS FINANCIERS

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Branches: Notifi cation will appear on the Niagara College home page at www.niagarac.on.ca Port Colborne St.Catharines Niagara Falls 284 Killaly St. E. 284 Geneva St. 6700 Morrison St. Local Radio Stations: Niagara Falls - 101.1 FM, St. Port Colborne, ON St.Catharines, ON Niagara Falls, Catharines - CKTB 610 AM, CHSC 1220 AM, CHRE L3K 1P3 L2N 2E8 ON L2E 6Z8 105.7 FM and HTZ-FM 97.7, Welland - Giant 91.7 FM, Tel: 905-834-4811 Tel: 905-937-7270 Tel: 905-356-8150 Hamilton - CHML 900 AM Fax: 905-834-5821 Fax: 905-937-7274 Fax: 905-356-8200 Page 16, news@niagara, Jan. 19, 2007 NEWNOISES@ @ NIAGARNIAGARA A The Sleeping wakes crowd with lively performance By JENNIFER DESCHAMPS When it comes to writing music, “Being on the road is always Staff Writer Mignano says the style depends amazing,” says Robinson. Mignano, The Sleeping is back on tour in on the mood the guys are in at the whose sentiments differ slightly, Canada, and fans are discovering time, also referred to as the “vibe” says, “It’s either super fun or that a performance is the furthest of the room. “Our writing process really miserable and you wanna thing from a night’s rest. involves a lot of free jamming.” kill yourself.” They agree on one On Nov. 26, the boys from Long According to Mignano, everyone thing: touring is full of surprises Island, N.Y., played at the L3 is able to contribute because there and everything unexpected will nightclub in St. Catharines as part is no structure. happen. of a lineup including A Wilhelm “Every song has its own personal Robinson says the band’s goals Scream, I Killed the Prom Queen, I effect on you.” While Robinson are to “get as big as we can, keep Am the Avalanche and Silverstein. says The Climb is a “fun one” touring, keep playing, headline The Sleeping, comprising to play, Mignano says he likes some tours and see how people drummer Joseph Zizzo, vocalist Heartbeat and Don’t Hold Back. react.” Doug Robinson, bassist Salvatore When you come to a show, Mignano says he dreams of Mignano and guitar/keyboardist Robinson says, “don’t be afraid to playing with bands that inspire Cameron Keym, say they want to rock out and be yourself.” him, such as The Mars Volta be different. Mignano also warns that you and Muse. Jokingly, Robinson “We want to play catchy stuff should expect “sweat, Joe shirtless, declares, “I would love to play that people can sing to, but at the and me looking hot on stage.” with The Wiggles.” He says in same time it is important for us to The guys say they enjoy all seriousness he would like to challenge ourselves as musicians,” playing shows like this. Robinson play with At the Drive In and the says Robinson. says, “Shows at small clubs are Deftones because these are two The Sleeping’s latest album, awesome” because of the level of bands he admires. Questions and Answers, is quite intimacy and feeling close to fans. Robinson’s advice to young an accomplishment. “Kids were falling all over the musicians is to work for it. Mignano, 28, says he accredits stage today,” says Mignano, with Mignano says, “Very few bands The Sleeping’s vocalist Doug Robinson screams out some powerful this success to being “better at excitement in his voice. get stuff handed to them. Most lyrics on stage at the L3 nightclub in St. Catharines. The show’s line- writing songs and better at focus” The Sleeping just came off the work very hard.” up also included A Wilhelm Scream, I Killed the Prom Queen, I Am on this album. Nintendo Fusion Tour, so they The Sleeping offer these fi nal the Avalanche and Silverstein. “We honed in on our songwriting say it’s nice to have crowds like words of wisdom: “Stay in school. Photo by Jennifer Deschamps ability,” adds Robinson, 23. this again. Spread the word.” Over-hyped, undersold: Top 10 album flops of 2006 By NADINE WEBSTER sold 392,000 copies. success. Her fi rst solo album, Rossi sold less than 17,000 copies of 2006 goes to K-Fed, Britney Staff Writer 8. Taylor Hicks, Taylor Hicks selling just 150,000 copies in of its self-titled debut. Considering Spears’ soon-to-be ex-husband. As 2007 begins, there is much Hicks, the oldest winner of its first week, reeks of sex and this show was shown worldwide to It seems riding off the success anticipation as to what the year American Idol at 29, sold 298,000 badly rhymed, repetitive lyrics, millions of people for three months, of Spears’ has only hurt K-Fed’s will bring. Success will come for copies of his debut album after his à la My Humps. the album sales are disappointing, career. His album sold a pathetic some, but we often have more to win on season fi ve. His Soul Patrol 4. Jessica Simpson, A Public Affair to say the least. It goes to show 6,000 copies in its fi rst week, and say about the unsuccessful than the fans gave him his win on the show, In the rush of who is more music fans are not stupid. organizers at the House of Blues in successful (for example, Britney allowing him to beat Katherine over whom, Simpson and her 1. Kevin Federline, Playing with Chicago were reportedly forced to Spears). Maybe it reminds us that McPhee, but can it bring him the ex-husband Nick Lachey both Fire give away free tickets to K-Fed’s we’re all human or that we may be lasting fame of fellow American released albums in 2006. As of The award for biggest fl op concert. closer to celebrity than we think. Idol winners Kelly Clarkson December 2006, Lachey remains These are the Top 10 “fl ops” of (297,000 debut albums in its fi rst in the lead, with over 545,000 2006, but feel free to add your own. week) and Carrie Underwood copies sold of What’s Left of Me. Haines shows softer side Albums selling more than (315,000), and American Idol Simpson’s fourth album, A Public By CODY MCGRAW 500,000 copies receive gold status, runner-up Clay Aiken (613,000)? Affair, sold 101,000 copies in its Staff Writer platinum for sales over one million 7. Janet Jackson, 20 Y.O. fi rst week, for a total of just under “Hainer, you’ve got balls of steel.” and diamond for the rare 10 million This over-hyped record was 220,000. The most memorable So says Star’s member Chris Seligman in an anecdote told by albums sold. an extreme disappointment for song on her album was A Public Emily Haines during some colourful banter highlighting her Jan. 6 Numbers are based on fi rst Virgin Records and fans alike. Affair and its video, featuring Eva performance at The Danforth Music Hall in Toronto. week sales. Fans bought 296,000 copies in its Longoria and Christina Applegate The Metric front woman had only one solo album to play from, so 10. Beyonce, B’day fi rst week, compared to fi rst week rollerskating in a disco rink. Her these banter sessions had to make up for the short concert and high The fi ve-time 2007 Grammy- sales of her last album, All For last album, 2003’s In This Skin, ticket price. nominated singer took only two You, which sold 600,000 copies. sold 2.9 million copies and went The mellow tempo of Knives Don’t Have Your Back fi lled the old weeks to record B’day. Critics You don’t need to be a whiz to do triple platinum. venue as backing band Soft Skeleton vigorously kept up with the string, say it shows, but Beyonce clearly that math. 3. Paris Hilton, Paris Hilton brass and percussion sections as Haines softly tapped her piano. has more fans than musical talent. 6. Tupac Shakur, Pac’s Life Paris “Famous for being Famous” Her excitement at having a string section was apparent as she The album sold 541,000 copies Did someone forget to tell Hilton’s debut album got a boost conducted them with her left arm during many songs. in its fi rst week and has since Tupac he’s been dead for 10 years? from the Stars Are Blind single. We Sweeping through the entire album almost in the order on the disc, gone double platinum, selling two Nevertheless, this is his sixth wonder how many copies would Haines stopped three times after about every two songs to babble million copies in the U.S. and three album since the death of this hip- have been sold had the single not about the fi rst week of her tour. million copies worldwide. hop icon, but not the last. A seventh seen repetitive radio play in the She quirkily asked the audience if they think the past was better than 9. Gwen Stefani, The Sweet Escape album will reportedly be released summer of 2006? First week sales the future, or vice versa, and interjected she was only asking because Her second solo album in less in 2007. Pac’s Life, containing brought in a dismal 77,000 copies. of a song she’d heard earlier that week that may or may not be by The than two years seems as though it previously unreleased material with Since Paris can’t back up her Velvet Underground. was rushed on to store shelves. Her collaborations from Snoop Dogg, album with a tour (even she knows Getting a mixed response, she turned back to her piano as awkwardly fi rst album, Love, Angel, Music, Ludacris, T.I., Chamillionaire and she can’t sing live), sales aren’t subtle as an episode of Arrested Development. Baby, sold seven million copies, Ashanti, sold 159,000 copies in its expected to pick up in 2007. Though a valiant effort, Haines’ spunk couldn’t make the night as with one hit after another playing fi rst week. 2. Rockstar Supernova, Rockstar exciting as a Metric concert. She clearly had too much energy to be on radio airwaves. The Sweet 5. Fergie, The Dutchess Supernova playing her soft album and would have been better suited commanding Escape, Stefani has said, is fi lled Besides needing a spell-checker The band featuring Tommy Lee the stage with her band. with songs that didn’t make it onto on her word processor, Fergie has (Motley Crue), Jason Newsted (ex- On her last song, she dedicated it to her dead father and to her granny, her fi rst album. Maybe there’s a managed to single-handedly bring Metallica) and Gilby Clarke (ex- who is “all over the Internet.” Admitting a tear in her eye, she boasted, reason for that. First week sales the Black Eyed Peas commercial Guns N’ Roses) and vocalist Lukas “I love Toronto” and ended the night to a standing ovation. news@niagara, Jan. 19, 2007, Page 17 NEWNOISES@ @ NIAGARNIAGARA A Top album brings fun back to rock By CODY MCGRAW Overwhelmed by Staff Writer Looking back to 2006, I can’t name an album that changed the Underoath world. However, there are many that made us By ANDREA DYER dance, think and have Noise Staff a good time. The year 10. Damien Rice, 9 2006 was a great one Ireland’s Damien Rice appeased waiting fans in 2006 with 9. The for music, especially album’s piano- and cello-heavy opening track, 9 Crimes, drew me in in Canada, as more with its haunting beauty and encouraged my listening and moderate than half of this list liking of the rest of the album. is Canadian. I hope 9. Justin Timberlake, Futuresex/Lovesounds this trend continues Justin Timberlake undid any wrongdoings from his former boy band in 2007 and the bar is career in ‘NSYNC with this 2006 album. He brought Sexy Back and had raised once again. Here rap artist T.I back him up on My Love, giving the album some fi nesse. are the best albums of Finally, a completely successful move on Timberlake’s part. Bravo. 2006. 8. Brand New, The Devil and God are Raging Inside of Me 10. Land of Talk, Brand New fi nished 2006 strong with the release of its latest album, Applause, Cheer, The Devil and God are Raging Inside of Me. The album sticks to the Boo, Hiss band’s typical soft verse/strong chorus style, but explores darker themes Sometimes an album and shines just enough with a solid track like Degasser on the playlist. just screams “next big 7. Set Your Goals, Mutiny! thing” and that is this The 2006 release Mutiny! is quite possibly what hardcore-punk has EP. Vocalist Elizabeth lacked for years. The album subtly hints inexperience, but offers fans a Powell’s sound is very more important dose of fun and heart that is unquestionably fresh. 90s and upon fi rst listen 6. Lupe Fiasco, Food and Liquor can raise memories Lupe Fiasco restored my faith in hip-hop in 2006 with Food and of Buffy the Vampire Liquor. Fiasco side-steps typical hip-hop subject matter and, instead, Slayer and when The wowed me with its infectious songs as no one else has focuses on topics such as skateboarding and family relations through Blue Jays were still good. this year. What the band did in seven songs is more fancy and rhythmic lyrics. Fiasco is easy listening for fans looking to Download: All My Friends and Summer Special than many artists did all year. It makes me smile to ease into hip-hop. 9. CSS, Cansei De Ser Sexy think that this is only the beginning. 5. MSTRKRFT, The Looks The fi rst words on this album are “CSS sucks.” You Download: Nature of the Experiment and Cheer it Death From Above 1979’s alter ego turned heads in 2006 with The have to admire a band that has that as its fi rst song to On Looks. Paris single-handedly had me liking the surprisingly unique hook listeners. The impressive Cibo Matto-like pop 3. Jenny Lewis with The Watson Twins, Rabbit MSTRKRFT sound while Easy Love had me aching to slip into something continues throughout, making this the perfect dance Fur Coat fl ashy and hit the dance fl oor. I can thank The Looks solely for opening party album. Jenny Lewis effectively did something different as my mind to the electronic-dance world. Download: Alala and Let’s Make Love and Listen to a solo artist that she has yet to do in Rilo Kiley. She 4. Alexisonfi re, Crisis Death from Above showed us she can please fans young and old with These St. Catharines rockers can be proud of their 2006 release 8. The Stills, Without Feathers songs about her thoughts on religion, relationships Crisis. While lyrically the album stands neutral to the band’s previous On their sophomore release, The Stills have adopted and being an adult, while using different song types. albums, musically the album came alive. With its intensity, This Could a new, more upbeat sound. Hearing both albums back- Her Dusty Springfi eld-like sound and her use of be Anywhere in the World anchored me as a fan, and the introduction of to-back causes one to believe they are by two different gospel singers The Watson Twins as her back-up Wade’s vocals on various tracks gave the album a bit of zest. bands. Now with the help of Broken Social Scene singers have given her a whole new fan base as she 3. Mugshot, Pause and Refl ect alumni, The Stills have made an incredibly satisfying enters her 30s and leaves the persona of a former child Mugshot surpasses its pop-punk counterparts by a long shot with its album even if it does alienate some of the old fans. actor behind. 2006 album Pause and Refl ect. The album is catchy and upbeat. Tracks Download: In The Beginning and Baby Blues Download: The Charging Sky and Melt Your Heart like Eleven Eleven act as a lure for potential Mugshot fans. Pause and 7. The Arctic Monkeys, Whatever People Say I 2. Ohbijou, Swift Feet for Troubling Times Refl ect is an all around good time and shows promise for the band. Am That’s What I’m Not The fi rst time I heard this band was in St. Catharines, 2. Converge, No Heroes This album lays out what it’s like to grow up in opening for Raising the Fawn. I had only read about The guys of Converge shattered audio-wavelengths in 2006 with England. The real appeal is that the members seem them that day and was really irritated the band took so their 14-track gem No Heroes. From start to fi nish the album demands like real people, not taking themselves too seriously long to set up.Well, they sure showed me. its listener’s undivided attention, though the song Plagues acts as the despite being quite successful. To put it simply, the music on this album is shining star in the band’s entire existence with the kind of metallic- These Brits exploded onto the scene in early 2006 beautifully atmospheric and full of instruments to hardcore that induces heart attacks. Vocalist Jacob Bannon presents to critical praise, which even scored them the top complement the soft, incandescent vocals of Casey clean-cut aggression throughout the album, making No Heroes hard to music award, The Mercury Prize. For all who miss Mecija. It marked the fi rst time I stood speechless, ignore. This album still kicks my ass every time I listen to it. 90s Britpop, this is the album for you. unable to move after a concert. 1. Underoath, Defi ne the Great Line Download: When the Sun Goes Down and I Bet You Download: To Rest in Peace on Righteous Tides Bringing back their original appeal in their latest release, Underoath Look Good on the Dance Floor and St. Francis dominated the hardcore scene in 2006 with Defi ne the Great Line. 6. The Dears, Gang of Losers 1. We Are Scientists, With Love and Squalor Hard-hitting tracks like In Regards to Myself and Moving for the Sake When I bought this album I was skeptical. I hate This is the best album of 2006 because this New of Motion are balanced by the eerie instrumentals in Salmarnir and To when I hear bands I like have changed their sound. York-based trio is bringing the fun back to rock Whom it May Concern. However, The Dears surprised me. I fell in love with music. With songs about drinking and having fun Drummer and vocalist Aaron Gillespie eased Spencer Chamberlain’s their new upbeat sound rather than their usual Smiths- being young, this album refl ects the personalities of throaty vocals with his own smooth ones. Backed by equal parts of inspired downer ways. This album made me want to the members and can make the stiffest person dance strong baselines and fast-paced riffs by the other band members, the see them live, not fall asleep as I did before. as though no one’s watching. album showcases an understanding of togetherness. Defi ne the Great Truth be told, Murray Lightburn is a great lyricist There is something to be said about an album that Line had heavy rotation in my CD player this year and will maintain its and performer and shines on this album. scores this high on this list, yet has the largest number rank well into 2007. Download: Death or Life We Want You and Whites of skippable songs. It shows how well certain songs Only Party stand out to make this truly an album to remember. 5. Emily Haines, Knives Don’t Have Your Back Download: Nobody Move, Nobody Get Hurt and For more top As front woman of Metric, Emily Haines commands The Great Escape the audience like an Amazon, but on her solo effort Honourable Mentions: Destroyer’s Rubies by 10 she sits alone quietly while sharing her sorrows. Destroyer, Return to the Sea by Islands, Trompe- album lists Her songs are slower and emotive, thereby showing L’Oeil by Malajube, Alright, Still by Lily Allen, St. a very different side to her. Instead of making us Elsewhere by Gnarls Barkley, Dancing with Daggers dance, she makes us think. Her atmospheric vocals by Magneta Lane, Honey From the Tombs by Amy are as haunting as they are engaging. Download: Millan, Rather Ripped by Sonic Youth, It’s Never Doctor Blind and Our Hell Been Like That by Phoenix and Stars of CCTV by 4. Tokyo Police Club, A Lesson in Crime Hard-Fi . www.noiseatniagara.com This may only be an EP, but Tokyo Police Club has Page 18, news@niagara, Jan. 19, 2007 NEWENTERTAINMENTS@NIAGARA Horror film predictable By ADAM GAMBLE Give indie fi lms a chance Staff Writer The Christmas season is a time for joy and giving, a time for Low-budget fi lms better than spending time with family and friends and a time for ... watching scary movies? The much-anticipated remake of the Canadian cult classic Black blockbusters Christmas was released in theatres nationwide on Christmas Day, 2006. different from that ever put on fi lm. In this movie, a group of eight sorority girls and their housemother Brick, 14A, 110 min. - Starring Joseph Gordon- are stranded in their house and begin to receive mysterious and Levitt, Brick is a tricky teenage detective story. threatening phone calls from a devious stranger. By ALEX EDDIE It sounds corny, but it is actually very smart and The girls learn that the house has a sordid past. Several years before Staff Writer entertaining. Teenage drama is something we see the movie takes place, a young boy named Billy, who was locked up Movie Reviews all the time on fi lm, but Brick is unique from fi lms in the attic by his abusive mother, eventually broke free and murdered similar in genre. her, along with her secret lover. This past year we have seen many blockbuster Match Point, PG, 124 min. - One of Woody Cut to the present. After the girls discover one of their sisters has movies reach the big screen. Allen’s more recent pictures. Starring Jonathon been murdered, one by one they all seem to go missing. Hits like King Kong, The Da Vinci Code and Rhys-Meyers and Scarlett Johansson, Match Point The fi lm starts off with lots of suspense and intrigue, and the Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest have is about what it is like to want something you can’t character development is well established throughout the movie. made it to theatres around the world. Some of these have and how far you will go to get it, even if it As the fi lm progresses, however, the plot becomes predictable, are great achievements, but many people do not know means death. Woody Allen’s pictures either strike and some scenes are very disturbing and hard to watch. While this about the movies that didn’t get quite the attention hard or miss terribly. This one strikes hard. version is a typical slasher fl ick, relying on shock value and computer- others received. Some of these low-budget fi lms are Thank You For Smoking, 14A, 91 min. - This very animated effects, the original is terrifying on its own. By using dark actually 10 times better than big budget features. smart comedy stars Aaron Eckhart as a spokesperson lighting and simple sound effects, the original creates a naturally This is a list of some of the movies this year, for a tobacco company. It gives us an idea of how frightening environment. If you are a fan of traditional horror fl icks, that were played in select cinemas or were put tobacco companies still manage to sell millions even don’t watch the remake. straight to video. though we’re all aware of how bad tobacco is for These movies are exceptionally good and didn’t get our health. the attention they should have. Shopgirl, PG, 106 min. - Starring Steve Martin, If you are interested, go to a video store and check Claire Danes and Jason Schwartzman. Based on these movies out. Steve Martin’s novel, Shopgirl focuses on a tricky Hustle and Flow, 18A, 115 min. - Starring Terrence love triangle involving a beautiful sales clerk, a rich Should have missed Howard as a pimp turned rapper in the ghetto part of businessman and a loser. Also catch Schwartzman Memphis, Hustle and Flow is a remarkable story of in another low-budget fi lm made in 1998 called human triumph in a place where it is a struggle just Rushmore. to live. Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang, 14A, 103 min. - Starring The Holiday Squid and the Whale, 14A, 81 min. - If you Val Kilmer as a hard-ass, gay private detective and are a fan of movies like The Royal Tenenbaums, Robert Downey Jr. as a thief disguising himself as an the Squid and the Whale is right up your alley. actor in this comedy from the guys who brought you By LESLEY SMITH Starring Jeff Daniels and Laura Linney as a couple Lethal Weapon. With a great script, it’s one of the Staff Writer going through a harsh divorce, the fi lm, seen mainly funniest movies I have ever seen. Two romances were interwoven. through the eyes of their two children, shows the This is the theme behind the movie The Holiday. The Columbia and impact a divorce has on them on in a way completely Universal Pictures fi lm, written and directed by Nancy Meyers, not only follows the two love stories, but also occurs on two continents. The story begins with Iris, a newspaper reporter in London, England, having her heart broken when the former fl ame she is still in love with becomes engaged to another woman. Amanda, a movie trailer editor from Los Angeles, Calif., is seen breaking up with her cheating boyfriend. Feeling she needs to get away, Amanda looks into vacations and fi nds Iris’s cottage on a home exchange site. By the following day, the women have switched homes for the Christmas holidays. Though their reason for the holiday is to get away from their failed relationships, both women fi nd love knocking on their doors, quite literally. Starring Cameron Diaz as Amanda, Kate Winslet as Iris, Jude Law as Iris’s brother Graham and Jack Black as movie soundtrack composer Miles, the two-and-a-half hour movie switches back and forth between Amanda’s life and Iris’s. It fl ows like most other comedy/romance movies with predictable plot lines and foreseeable outcomes. “I thought it was a very predictable movie in that this story has been done a hundred different ways,” said Lauren Hoffer, 20. Ashley Cruickshank, 20, felt the previews surpassed the movie. “I thought that it was mildly entertaining. There was more hype for it, and it didn’t live up to its previews.” “The previews on TV pretty much showed the best parts of the movie,” Hoffer, a student at Canadore College in North Bay, Ont., agreed. Cruickshank and Hoffer also agreed on the acting in the fi lm. “Jude Law, Kate [Winslet] and Jack Black played their parts well, whereas Cameron’s [Diaz] performance was brutally annoying. I wanted to chuck a shoe at her face. I thought her acting was too fake in this moving and too fake glam. It was sickening,” said Cruickshank, a student at Nipissing University in North Bay, Ont. “I enjoyed the cast except for Cameron Diaz, but I just don’t like her acting regardless of the movie,” Hoffer admitted. However, not everyone had negative things to say about the fi lm. “I liked the movie,” said Pam Smith, of Owen Sound, Ont. “It made me cry.” With an ending that brings both storylines together and sees everything come to a tidy close, The Holiday may not be cinematic genius. It may be, however, the perfect choice for a night of relaxation. news@niagara, Jan. 19, 2007, Page 19 NEWSPOLITICS@NIAGARA Ontario’s electoral structure could change

By RYAN MCLEAN comprise the assembly meet twice winner-takes-all regardless if he or compete in a second and fi nal referendum was also defeated in Staff Writer a month for eights months from she got a percentage majority of round. 2005. New Brunswick will hold a Students have a chance at chang- September 2006 until May 2007. the votes. A version of this system is used referendum on a mixed electoral ing Ontario’s electoral system. The provincial Lieutenant Gov- In the 2003 provincial election, when Canadian federal parties system in May 2008. The provincial plurality system ernor appointed the chair, George the Liberal party received 69.9 elect their leaders. A recent ex- The next local meeting will be is being examined for everyone to Thompson, a former educator, per cent of the seats, with 46.6 per ample was the Liberal leadership, on Jan. 22 in Niagara Falls. The where after each round the can- see what changes could occur. judge and provincial and federal cent of the vote. They elected 72 discussion will begin at 7 p.m., at didates with the least number of That system is one in which a deputy minister. of a possible 103 MPPs to form the votes would give encourage their the MacBain Community Centre, single winner is chosen in a given The assembly must determine if current government. delegates to swing their votes to 7150 Montrose Rd., Unit 1, in the riding by having the most votes. the electoral system in place since However, with proportional rep- the leading contenders to compete Coronation Programming Room. The Citizens Assembly, as a 1792 needs to be changed. The re- resentation, candidates are elected in the next round. To schedule a meeting, attend result of the drop in voter partici- port is due to the provincial gov- according to their party’s share of Various forms of proportional or get a complete list of meetings, pation, is tasked with examining ernment by May 15. If change is the popular vote. representation are being used in please refer to www.citizensas- what changes could be made to recommended, a referendum ques- The plurality system is used in Spain, Germany, Mexico and New sembly.gov.on.ca. You can send encourage voter turnout. tion will be on the Oct. 4 provin- Canada, United Kingdom, India Zealand. written comments to the assembly The assembly is 104 Ontarians, cial election ballot. Any changes and the U.S. Other provinces considering by Jan. 31, by e-mail, mail or fax. of which 103 were randomly se- would need a 60 per cent “super France uses a slightly different electoral reform include British You can also log onto www.tvo. lected from each of the province’s majority” to be passed. plurality system by using a two- Columbia, which held a referen- org, click on Citizens Assembly, ridings by Elections Ontario’s per- As the system now works, the round or two-ballot system. After dum in 2005. It was narrowly de- and read and watch videos of the manent register. The 52 females, candidate who gets the most votes the fi rst round, the two candidates feated, but another will be held in recommendations and comment as 51 males and one aboriginal who in the riding wins the MPP seat, or who received the most votes will May 2009. Prince Edward Island’s they happen. Columnist admits his Political donations capped By RYAN MCLEAN St. Catharines area. the recent changes. political ignorance, Staff Writer Asked if this would increase the “I don’t see any reason for entire- With the possibility of a federal diffi culty in raising support, Dyk- ly eliminating a company or group election in the spring, the rules stra said, “This makes fundraising from participating in the process,” have changed. much more diffi cult and tedious.” said David Chernushenko, deputy growing disinterest Changes have been made to the However, Dykstra pointed out leader of the Green Party in a tele- By CODY MCGRAW reference to the South Park movie. Canada Elections fi nancing laws. this would establish credibility. phone interview from his Ottawa Columnist Apparently, sometimes South Park The Conservative Party’s Fed- According to a media release, offi ce. I am the fi rst person to admit I does imitate life. eral Accountability Act was given NDP Ethics Critic Pat Martin ex- “A party has to be able to com- know nothing Apparently Canada has a mi- royal assent on Dec. 12 by the plained great steps were accom- municate during an election, but if about politics. nority government, whatever that Right Honourable Michelle Jean, plished by passing Bill C-2. you drastically cut out fi nancing, I can’t tell means. When I asked people I Governor General of Canada. “While not perfect, this bill will there is temptation for some to seek you what the knew what that means, they didn’t As of Jan. 1, citizens or perma- give both Canadians and MPs more covert means of support.” difference is seem to know either. nent residents of Canada are re- tools to end the culture of secrecy Also included are these changes: between a Lib- And when did Jean Chrétien stop stricted to donating up to $1,000 and patronage that allowed corrup- no individual can make a cash con- eral and a Con- being the prime minister? Clearly to political parties, candidates and tion to fl ourish.” tribution that exceeds $20 without servative or, I don’t vote, especially after some- furthermore, one from the New Democratic Par- leadership contestants over a cal- The direction to eliminate the a receipt; gifts are prohibited that what makes a ty, outside the LCBO, hounded me endar year, compared to 2006’s possibility of undue infl uence is could be seen as infl uencing a Conservative about how the party know its target maximum amount of $5,200, and a positive step, according to John candidate’s position or views; only progressive. market: students. $5,400 to a leadership candidate. Maloney, Liberal MP for Welland. gifts from relatives, normal expres- I’m aware this is a bad thing, but Annoyed by the disturbance, I Corporations, trade unions and Maloney said smaller rural areas sions of courtesy or practice are ac- really I can’t help that I don’t care. threw away the pamphlet without unincorporated associations will be usually don’t see the large con- ceptable. I leave political analysis to the even opening it. prohibited from making donations. tributions the inner cities attract, Within four months after the experts such as journalism student There is really no saving me In 2006, these groups were allowed however, “The personal impact for election, all candidates must send Ryan McLean, and I stick to run- from my ignorance of politics. to donate up to $1,000. me is negligible in my riding asso- the Chief Electoral Offi cer a state- ning Noise@Niagara. Something politicians could try This will help eliminate “big ciation. I rarely get donations over ment detailing each gift worth more When I rationalize this behav- is posting what they will do for business infl uence” from the Ca- $1,000.” than $500 received, the nature of iour, I come to the conclusion that students around schools to create I don’t want to worry about things, some sort of awareness. nadian political process, explained On the other hand, some critics the gift, its commercial value and which is also why I didn’t see An How about holding the voting Rick Dykstra, Conservative MP for are questioning the motives behind its cost. Inconvenient Truth. I just don’t at colleges and universities? I, for want to know. one, would vote between classes I pay thousands of dollars in tu- when bored out of my mind. Electoral Reform Special Edition ition each year, yet I don’t question People really get into politics and where it goes. Infl ation goes up, yet world issues, but I strongly believe I pay more without thinking twice. that telling someone to “shut up”

Trusting politicians isn’t and/or “mind your own business” Reform something I do because of years can solve all the world’s problems. of TV addiction, but I continue to There are weapons of mass de- let things go without forming an struction in Iraq? Shut up. opinion. North Korea has a bomb? Shut I think I would be thinking dif- up. Madonna can’t adopt a baby? ferently if I were an American and Shut up. people I knew were fi ghting a war Maybe that’s why I hate politics. for some reason unknown to me. It’s because the topic just annoys No seriously. I have no idea what me. I start asking myself questions the war is about. such as if a politician pays a hooker Democratic When I read that Saddam Hus- with taxpayers’ money is she really sein was hanged I thought it was a being paid at all? Page 20, news@niagara, Jan. 19, 2007 NEWS@SPORTSNIAGARA Athletes of the week Volleyball serving up spikes at Niagara It’s a new year for Niagara The female’s volleyball team College Athletes of the Week. has a record of seven wins and Leah Duke, of Ottawa, a fi rst- one loss. year Recreation and Leisure Meanwhile, Winch, who stands Services program student, is the six-feet, six-inches tall, has been Boston Pizza female Athlete of one of Niagara’s most consistent the Week for Jan. 15. volleyball players. In last Troy Winch, of Sutton, Ont., Saturday’s games against St. Clair a second-year Recreation and College, he had 13 kills, two aces Leisure Services program student, and one block for 16 points. is the Boston Pizza male Athlete The men’s volleyball team plays of the Week. Mohawk College on Tuesday in Duke has been called to the Hamilton. play three different positions on On Friday and Saturday, this year’s volleyball team. Duke, women’s volleyball will take the who stands six-feet tall, collected spotlight as the Niagara College 13 kills and one block leading Invitational will be played at the Niagara to a sweep over Windsor’s Mackenzie Athletic Centre at the St. Clair College last Saturday. Welland campus.

Aaron McNutt, 20, of Ajax, Ont., jump serves for the Niagara Knights men’s volleyball team in an exhibition game against Mercyhurst College from Erie, Pa. The next home game is Friday, Jan. 26, when Niagara plays North Bay’s Nipissing University at 8 p.m. TROY WINCH LEAH DUKE Photo by Jason Petznick Brock celebrates 25 years of service at its aquatic centre By T.J. LUCIANO open trials. Staff Writer “We host all regional high school Brock University’s Eleanor competition, provincial university Misener Aquatic Centre (EMAC) championships, all high school is celebrating 25 years of service. Ontario championships and the From Sept. 29 to Oct. 1, the centre’s Ontario Masters.” Some Canadian personnel were joined by past and athletes have “graced the platform present contributors to acknowledge of the centre.” this accomplishment. de Bray says Cathy Richardson Herb de Bray is the aquatics got her degree at Brock and centre manager. He says EMAC was in the 1980 Olympics and was established in September the Commonwealth Games. 1981. The pool is 50 metres long “Dave Schemilt, 1500 fi nalist, and eight lanes wide. The centre won several national university employs 92 staff workers and 87 championships.” part-time student workers. The pool itself has a “hydraulic “Our role is to provide fl oor” that moves up and down. recreational competition for Brock It’s a “temperature differential and the Niagara region.” He says pool” and the “concrete expands the centre serves Brock University at a different rate.” The pool was Herb de Bray stands in front of the banner promoting the Eleanor Misener Aquatic Centre at Brock and the community and is open to originally supposed to be built University in St. Catharines. The aquatic centre recently celebrated 25 years of service. the public. in March 1981, but “slippage Photo by Michael Dach “Our role in the community has occurred and there were scars at the been a success over 25 years in bottom of the pool.” He says they working conditions of the times. program has grown and is facilities.” Niagara.” renovated it, drained it and found Margie Lizzotti, of Thorold, increasing the number of families “It’s wonderful. How many times The centre is “the best out of all the spots. is the assistant aquatics program and people who need swimming can I say it?” Lizzotti says. all university pools in Canada, Bob Davis is one of the builders supervisor. She does leadership lessons. She says the front desk staff must defi nitely Ontario. This is just of the EMAC and used to work training and makes sure all children She says there is amazing know the pre-requisites for the as fun as the indoor facility in for Dr. Arnie Lowenberger, former have assigned instructors. “When leadership exhibited at the centre. facility’s clientele. “It’s more than Niagara Falls.” director of athletics for Brock. a swimming lesson happens, we There’s a “great and strong network just answering a phone.” Lizzotti “Kids can swing off Tarzan “Anytime you build something, need enough instructional staff to of people.” says they are a “huge piece” of the ropes, dive off the boards. It’s a fun you don’t expect great things.” He cover the need.” “We have great leadership recreation program. centre.” There is “nothing else of says the aquatic centre at Brock She says the centre has the largest personnel, which helps because Mike and Diane work at the this magnitude,” says de Bray. is “well-run by the aquatics staff fi rst-aid program in Ontario for a they teach in the community. When Welcome Desk at Brock. They He says the EMAC is host to some under de Bray.” The pool has been single affi liate, which is one pool. a course is cancelled, we pick up say the desk is a “liaison between big regional events, including the “well-maintained” in the 25 years it “We got an award for the largest the slack and get them certifi ed the community and the facility.” Canada Games Trials and Ontario has existed. He says he remembered lifesaving program in Ontario.” any way possible.” The centre has They must have knowledge about Championships, for universities or building the structure and the She says the Lifesaving Society great “communication with other “everything in the program book.” news@niagara, Jan. 19, 2007, Page 21 NEWS@SPORTSNIAGARA Algoma psychology student lives dream in OHL By STEPHEN BOSCARIOL from computer science to political 17 years old to pursue his hockey further heightening the intensity Game days make most OHL Staff Writer science classes. Around exams it career in Sault Ste. Marie, Ont. on the ice. With this in mind, Good players go through an almost Three years of hard work and gets tough to focus on both but Before leaving, his father offered fi nds comfort in playing in front repetitive routine. Good is no determination made him who he is time management is a skill that you him advice that to this day sticks of noisy crowds that are often exception; his day starts and ends today. just need to have,” says Good. with him. yelling objectionable phrases on a schedule that has no room for Brad Good, a 20-year-old Good grew up playing hockey in “My dad told me when I was and, sometimes, humourous unwanted distractions. member of the Sault Ste. Marie his hometown of Kitchener, Ont., younger to always go about your chants at him. “I wake up and always eat a Greyhounds in the Ontario Hockey where his fi rst hockey memories business, work hard. A job doesn’t “It’s defi nitely intense. It’s sweet. bowl of Cheerios, then head down League (OHL), knows exactly were some of his fondest. need to be fancy just as long as it’s I always try to give them [the to the rink for a half-hour meeting what it takes to become the best. “When I was playing hockey in done well. I still go by that to this crowd] their money’s worth, kind with the team. We’ll skate for a Whether Good is skating on the ice the outdoor rink at Smisson Public day.” of put on a show. My fi rst game in little bit to work out our legs. Then or attending Algoma University for School, I was probably only six The Greyhounds play in front the OHL I was full of nerves, but after the skate I’ll head home and psychology, focusing on the task at years old but those were great of a fairly large crowd by OHL also excitement. You defi nitely make a little toast. I usually sleep hand elevates his performance. times.” standards. The larger the crowd, feel a sense of accomplishment two hours after that and then get “I have nine credits in everything Good left home when he was the more the noise level rises, stepping onto that ice.” up and have a pre-game meal of chicken pasta if we’re playing at home. I’ll then shower up and head to the rink about three hours early. I sometimes get my back worked on. Then I get ready and hit the ice.” The OHL this year implemented a new drug-testing regulation that OCAAOCAASTANDINGS is cracking down on illegal drug use by its players. Men’s Volleyball Men’s Basketball “I think it’s a wise decision on Team GP MW ML GW GL +/- Pts Team GP W L PF PA +/- Pts the part of the league to ensure safety and equality throughout Central East Division Central Divison the Canadian Hockey League Humber 8 6 2 583 451 132 12 Durham 9 7 2 23 8 15 14 (CHL).” Centennial 7 6 1 531 502 29 12 Seneca 7 5 2 18 10 8 10 Being 20 puts Good in the Seneca 8 4 4 561 518 43 8 Georgian 5 3 2 10 7 3 6 Sheridan 6 4 2 455 413 42 8 position of an “over-ager” in the Cambrian 9 3 6 12 20 -8 6 George Brown 7 1 6 439 518 -79 2 rules of the OHL, but he doesn’t Boreal 8 0 8 4 24 -20 0 Georgian 6 0 6 323 490 -167 0 mind not knowing what his future Central West Division East Division has in store for him. Mohawk 5 5 0 15 1 14 10 “If there are no intriguing St. Lawrence K 10 8 2 830 669 161 16 Nipissing 6 4 2 14 8 6 8 professional hockey options, then Algonquin 9 8 1 757 608 149 16 Humber 6 3 3 10 11 -1 6 Cambrian 9 6 3 675 665 10 12 I’ll attend a Canadian university. I Canadore 6 1 5 5 15 -10 2 Fleming P 11 5 6 754 858 -104 10 know I want to be on the beach in Sheridan 7 0 7 2 21 -19 0 Durham 9 4 5 646 723 -77 8 the summer and playing some kind East Division La Cite 10 2 8 651 700 -49 4 of hockey in the winter.” Algonquin 7 7 0 21 3 18 14 Loyalist 12 2 10 791 881 -90 4 Good offers this advice to any Loyalist 7 6 1 18 7 11 12 West Division young aspiring athlete pursuing Trent 8 4 4 17 18 -1 8 Fanshawe 7 7 0 581 424 157 14 the dream of achieving the highest La Cite 7 2 5 9 17 -8 4 Niagara 6 4 2 483 416 67 8 level in their respective sport. Fleming P 7 0 7 3 21 -18 0 St. Clair 5 4 1 417 380 37 8 “Just don’t get discouraged West Division Algoma 8 4 4 603 601 2 8 when things don’t go your way. Redeemer 7 5 2 16 9 7 10 Mohawk 10 4 6 838 844 -6 8 Stick with it, stay positive, while Niagara 6 4 2 14 9 5 8 Lambton 7 3 4 555 552 3 6 working your ass off and good Fanshawe 5 3 2 9 9 0 6 Redeemer 7 2 5 505 521 -16 4 things will happen.” St. Clair 8 3 5 15 17 -2 6 Sault 8 1 7 486 730 -244 2 Upcoming Women’s Volleyball Women’s Basketball Niagara Knights Central East Division East Division Home Games Team GP W L GW GL +/- Pts Team GP W L PF PA +/- Pts Durham 10 9 1 29 8 21 18 Seneca 10 10 0 822 467 355 20 Women’s Volleyball Cambrian 10 7 3 26 11 15 14 Algonquin 9 7 2 555 461 94 14 Georgian 6 5 1 16 7 9 10 St. Lawrence K. 9 6 3 518 444 74 12 vs. Nipissing Jan. 26 Boreal 10 3 7 12 23 -11 6 Humber 9 5 4 520 484 36 10 Seneca 8 1 7 9 22 -13 2 George Brown 8 4 4 470 478 -8 8 George Brown 10 0 10 2 30 -28 0 Durham 8 4 4 435 451 -16 8 6 p.m. Georgian 8 2 6 471 544 -73 4 Central West Division Loyalist 8 1 7 416 481 -65 2 Men’s Volleyball Nipissing 7 7 0 21 1 20 14 Fleming P 9 0 9 266 663 -397 0 Humber 7 6 1 19 5 14 12 vs. Nipissing Jan. 26 Mohawk 7 4 3 14 10 4 8 West Division Sheridan 9 3 6 11 20 -9 6 Algoma 8 7 1 510 364 146 14 Canadore 7 1 6 5 19 -14 2 Sheridan 7 5 2 410 341 69 10 8 p.m. Niagara 5 3 2 283 266 17 6 East Division Fanshawe 6 3 3 302 320 -18 6 Women’s Basketball Algonquin 8 7 1 21 4 17 14 St. Clair 5 2 3 276 261 15 4 Loyalist 8 7 1 21 7 14 14 Mohawk 8 2 6 370 415 -45 4 vs. Redeemer Jan. 30 Fleming P 8 4 4 13 13 0 8 Redeemer 5 0 5 188 372 -184 0 La Cite 8 2 6 10 20 -10 4 Trent 8 2 6 7 21 -14 4 6 p.m. West Division Men’s Basketball Redeemer 10 8 2 25 7 18 16 Niagara 8 7 1 22 6 16 14 news@niagara publishes vs. Redeemer Jan. 30 Fanshawe 8 5 3 18 10 8 10 Lambton 10 2 8 7 26 -19 4 next on Jan. 26, 2007 St. Clair 9 2 7 8 23 -15 4 8 p.m. Sault 8 0 8 1 24 -23 0 Page 22, news@niagara, Jan. 19, 2007 Construction on Main Street bridge causing local profi t loss

By RACHEL TATTERSALL for more. knows downtown because of its Staff Writer Dunsby says parking meters are lack of success. Locally owned downtown stores a “disadvantage” to people who “I’m going to have to make a are having a hard time competing don’t want to have to pay to park decision soon for my own personal with the new wave of shopping while they shop. survival. I may have to close down centres. Box stores, such as Wal-Mart and or move.” The scene was calmer than it shopping centres, do keep business He says he would love to see should have been in downtown out of downtown because “everyone downtown revitalize, but that won’t Welland on a Thursday afternoon. is looking for the lowest price.” happen until people come down and Downtown shops should be busy “There are not enough stores for support the local businesses. and hectic, but this wasn’t the case. people to want to spend the whole Teresa Maletta, of Welland, is an With just as many closed stores day shopping here, like Niagara- employee at Kid’s World of Fashion as there are open ones, downtown on-the-Lake.” on East Main Street. She says the Welland looks as though it could On the other hand, Paul bridge construction has caused a use a big economic boost. Richardson, 53, of Welland, owner major strain on business, adding Kathy Dunsby, 47, of Welland, of The Garden Path, says the bridge things have “been terrible because is a manager at La Mode Boutique construction has had a major effect of the bridge.” on Cross Street. She says the local on his business. She says this business has done construction of the Main Street “We are 40 per cent down from well for itself, considering it has bridge has had no effect on sales. this time last year.” been open in the same location for She says her store has regular Richardson says he “believes all the last 32 years. She believes it customers and its quality garments, downtowns are facing the same will continue to do well. Photo by Nate Lasovich personalized service and customer problems.” He says people would “The new City Hall has brought satisfaction keep them coming back rather go to box stores because it’s more business and attention to the convenient to buy from just one area.” store. Maletta says exclusive clothes Richardson says before the bridge of good quality are what has Niagara’s Icewine Festival returns was closed his business was “doing made Kid’s World of Fashion so fi ne.” successful. By ROBYN HOPPER is in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Another ice bar will be He has a lot of loyal customers Dunsby, Richardson and Maletta Staff Writer placed downtown and the event will also include who like the store, prices and him. all agree that a larger variety of Cleanse your palate. tastings and entertainment. “We don’t just want your money. stores would help boost the success The 12th annual Niagara Icewine Festival is taking The Niagara Icewine Festival has something to We want to know our customers, to of Welland’s downtown shopping. place Jan. 19 to Jan. 28. please everyone’s palate. have a family feeling.” Richardson says, “I would like to The festival will celebrate one of Canada’s most Richardson says he is sometimes come down here and be proud.” cherished products, Ontario icewine. embarrassed to bring people he The opening act is the annual Images of Winter by Xerox gala evening and silent auction. The gala will be held on Friday, Jan. 19, at the Sheraton on the Falls Hotel in Niagara Falls starting at 8 p.m. It is Canada’s largest public icewine tasting with more than 30 Ontario wineries presenting more than 100 award-winning icewines. Sprinkled between the icewines will be 12 food stations offering the fi nest in Canadian cuisine. The minimum The tickets for the gala evening and silent auction cost $150. The fi rst weekend begins with an ice bar carved from a 7,000-pound wage is going up. block of ice. The 18-foot-long ice bar will be in the centre of Main Street in Jordan Station. The street will be If you're an employer, here's what you need to know. closed for icewine tasting from more than 20 wineries along with ice- carving demonstrations, food and General Students under Liquor Server Hunting & Fishing Hunting & Fishing Homeworkers (people entertainment. Minimum Wage 18 and working not Guides: for less than Guides: for five or doing paid work in their more than 28 hours five consecutive more hours in a day home for an employer) Niagara’s famous wine route is ready per week or during hours in a day whether or not the to welcome visitors from around the a school holiday hours are consecutive world for the 10 days of tours, tastings, Current seminars, samplings and food pairings, $7.75/hour $7.25/hour__ $6.75/hour $38.75 $77.50 110% of the minimum wage all with the focus on icewine. wage rate The festival will also feature an Ice Feb. 1, 2007 $8.00/hour $7.50/hour__ $6.95/hour $40.00 $80.00 110% of the minimum wage Art Exhibit by Canadian artist Gordon wage rate Halloran. Halloran is an internationally recognized artist whose art was featured at the 2006 Winter Olympics in Torino, On February 1, 2007, the general minimum wage will increase to $8.00 per hour from the current rate of $7.75 per hour. Italy. The exhibit is new to the festival this year and is included in the price To find out more about how the new minimum wage guidelines affect of a Niagara Icewine Discovery Pass employers and employees, call or visit the Ministry of Labour web site. of $30. The pass gives the holder access to Paid for by the Government of Ontario exclusive offers and complimentary events throughout the festival at 30 wineries. 1-800-531-5551 www.ontario.ca/minimumwage The second weekend of the festival news@niagara, Jan. 17, 2007 Page 23 ‘Can’t someone else do it?’ McGuinty scholarship aids global studies With Just Junk — someone can By RYAN MCLEAN exchange of ideas, values and Staff Writer life experiences - and that’s true By MICHAEL DACH there is a chance for survival. Just the company’s website. The McGuinty government for Ontario students studying Staff Writer Junk has done just that. Once the teamsters arrive, they is establishing international abroad as well.” For years people have dreaded “You’ll always hear this saying conduct an evaluation of the items scholarships for Ontario college The government is negotiat- cleaning out their garages, not to when people decide to start a for removal and provide a written and university students to study ing bilateral postsecondary and mention the time and money spent business: It’s 10 per cent inspiration, estimate. Removal can begin right abroad, says a ministry of training exchange agreements on travelling to the dump to discard 90 per cent perspiration,” says away if the quote is satisfactory to training, colleges and universities with other countries, including it all properly. Thorne, “plus the right people the client. Workers come prepared press release. China, India, France, Germany As Homer Simpson’s campaign working in the business. With the to complete the job right away. “Our government supports and the United States. slogan read when he became right people it can make a business Just Junk employs eight people, students who want a diverse “The government’s support sanitation commissioner, “Can’t grow to the wildest of your and it is looking to expand into learning experience,” said Chris for international opportunities someone else do it?” Now someone expectations.” Hamilton, says Thorne. Bentley, minister of training, for Ontario’s students is most else can. He continues to mention Since being in business, colleges and universities. “That’s welcome in its recognition of Just Junk is a business that the importance of creating a Just Junk has received several why we are encouraging Ontario the vital of cross-cultural learn- provides fast, effi cient removal of professional service that doesn’t community awards. In 2004 it students to pursue part of their ing experiences to their educa- unwanted trash at an affordable just cater to people’s sidewalk was awarded the Entrepreneur of studies abroad through new tion and personal development,” price. removal. He says he would like to the Year Award, which recognizes scholarships that will also help said Dr. Ross Paul, president of According to its website, Just expand to a larger scale, catering outstanding potential and business our province remain competitive the University of Windsor. Junk opened for business on Sept. to respectable companies. Having excellence. In 2005, the company in the global economy.” “Given my strong belief 1, 2003. those customers would separate his acquired the New Business Award, In 2006-07, more than 150 that today’s education requires Mike Thorne, president of Just company from his competition’s, which recognizes companies that Ontario International Educational exposure to other ways of Junk, used to work in Toronto for who have just a catchy business have been operating for three Opportunity Scholarships thinking and diverse ways Bell Canada. One day, while at name or feel that they need a years or fewer and who are an will be available for eligible of looking at the world, I am work, he was instructed to fi nd gimmick to operate. entrepreneurial success. Also in students, who can receive up tremendously encouraged by a company that could remove “I feel they (other companies) all 2005, the 40 under Forty award was to $2,500 each. This will also this initiative. The students and the old cubicles from his offi ce. have the same friendly, catchy logo. given to the company. This award include scholarships for students the province will be the ultimate Thorne says this was the fi rst time I want our company to be easily exemplifi es business excellence from under-represented groups, benefi ciaries.” he thought of a market for a junk recognizable with an emotional proven by those business people francophones, Aboriginal groups The government, as part of removal service. appeal,” he says. under the age of 40. and persons with disabilities. the Reaching Higher plan to “Seeing the overwhelming Just Junk works as follows: the Just Junk is in St. Catharines “Initiatives aimed at help internationalize Ontario’s lineup of people dropping off trash customer calls for an appointment at 214 Martindale Rd. Niagara improving the student learning postsecondary education system, at a landfi ll site,” says Thorne, for the removal of any trash or residents can contact the company experience will help cement will invest $1 million in 2006- “there is probably a need for this useless clutter. Items the company by phone at 905-646-5865 or toll our postsecondary education 07, $3 million in 2007-08, and type of job.” can haul include old furniture and free at 1-888-JUNK-TRUCK system’s reputation as being $5 million in 2008-09. He decided to quit his job in appliances, renovation debris and (586-5878). among the best in the world,” In 2005, the strategy included Toronto and moved back to St. reusable and recyclable items. For general inquiries, e-mail added Bentley. a new website, http://www. Catharines in pursuit of his idea. Appointments are for a two-hour [email protected], call the “Encouraging diversity at studyinontario.com. It is said that if a business can time slots that allow for unforeseen toll free number or visit its website our universities will enhance The website cost $80,000, can succeed the fi rst three years, then circumstances to be avoided, says at http://www.justjunk.com. everyone’s learning experience,” translate in four different lan- said Sandra Pupatello, MPP for guages and sees about 33 hits Windsor West. “Having more per day, said Tanya Blazina, se- College students have mixed feelings international students at our nior media relations co-ordina- campuses will mean a greater tor for the ministry. over expectations, unsure of future Alzheimer’s month proclaimed By TJ LUCIANO (Co-op) program in Welland. Some people can be hired right Staff Writer He learns database fundamentals, out of the program but it is “rare.” January has been declared Alzheimer’s Awareness Month in Welland. A few Niagara College students Hypertext Markup Language and One student expressed his opinion Doug Rapelje, chair of the newly formed Alzheimer Society Niagara expressed feelings of confi dence, cascading style sheets. “We learn concerning his expectations for Falls Foundation, told councillors the disease affects more than 7,000 while others felt dismal about their logarithms and better understand his program, but he had a concern people across the region. future expectations regarding their our problem-solving skills.” regarding the fast-paced teaching Among awareness events, the Manulife Walk for Memories will take courses on Nov. 1. There’s even “lots of math.” of his course, which focuses more place at the Pen Centre on Sunday, Jan. 21, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Some students felt their future He says his course prepares on marks. A two-hour public forum presented by Alzheimer Society of Niagara, expectations looked bright and were him to be a lead programmer and Sarkis Melengitchian, 19, was called Maintaining a Healthy Brain, takes place at Welland Civic Square confi dent they would get good jobs a systems analyst. He explains his born in Yerevan, Armenia. Jan. 25, starting at 7 p.m. right out of their program, feeling tasks would be to “tell other people He is a student in the four- that their programs will prepare to write codes, check the codes” year Mechanical Engineering them for the real world. and he could “fi re people.” Technology (Co-op) program. Some felt as if getting through to “You get an overall higher “The teachers rush six or seven Maintenance closing area bridges teachers was a hard task and that learning in computer science.” lessons, one after another.” made their expectancies unclear He says he is confi dent he will “Getting through to them is Motorists who travel across the Allenburg bridge may want to make from the start. have a good job upon completion. bologna.” The teachers should “go other arrangements later this month.The bridge will be closed Jan. 22 Ashly George is in the two-year “Right out of my program, I’ll be easier” on students. He says the through Jan. 26 from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Correctional Worker program. in co-op and show them what I can teachers should give students one The St. Lawrence Seaway Authority said the closure is needed in order She wants to work with youths do with a computer.” mid-term, one fi nal exam and have to allow crews to replace bridge buffers. in detention centres when she Twenty-year-old Kaland Sta- some assignment marks. Also, similar maintenance work will result in the closure of the Glendale graduates this year. chura, of Welland, is in the Police He says he feels as if the teachers Avenue bridge Jan. 29 to Feb. 2 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. “I want to become a corrections Foundations program. aren’t getting through to students worker so I can work in “We learn about law, policing because of the big workloads. penitentiaries with inmates. You and policing powers.” He says his “I wish the teachers would quit associate with police but don’t do classmates enact scenarios in which scaring us. We pay their salaries,” Work on Campus - Earn $9/hour! the grunt work.” they “apprehend suspects.” Melengitchian says. Her program course has law and He is confi dent that with more “It’s different in Armenia than The Responsible Gambling Council (RGC) is looking for students with great English classes, as well as physical work after the program he will Canada. You may as well have 100 interpersonal skills to assist with Know the Score, an interactive awareness training, which she adds, is “well- succeed in his fi eld. per cent here.” program designed to prevent gambling-related problems among young suited” for the course. “They give us the tools and His “great expectations” are adults. “I’m confi dent that the program resources and tell us how to get to get a well-paying job when he will assure me a job after I hired,” he says. graduates, despite the hard marking The program will visit Niagara College Glendale Campus from February graduate,” George says. “In order to succeed in Police scheme here. 12 - 15. Students must be available to attend a paid training session on Corey Hagopian, 20, of St. Foundations, you have to keep on “I’m going to live in a castle on Sunday, February 11th from 11 am - 2 pm.. Catharines, is in the three-year getting things like your CPR and top of a mountain when I graduate,” Computer Programming Analyst maybe swimming too.” says Melengitchian. Apply online before February 2, 2007 at www.knowthescore.ca/on/jobs.cfm Page 24, news@niagara, Jan. 19, 2007

Artist, musician TThefeelsh e AArtsr t s ‘personal connection’

By LAURA NARDUCCI music and art when he was a child. Staff Writer “My sister played piano all Combining improvisation, the time. When I was younger, I refl ection and intuition can create wanted to learn the pieces she was an original sound. playing.” John Farah, 33, a pianist, Farah says he comes from an composer, electronic musician artistic family; his sister and his and visual artist from Toronto, mother are also painters. performed at Making Room over “I see art and music as extensions the Dec. 2 and Dec. 3 weekend of each other. The lines I draw in last year at 224 Wallace Ave. in my visual art are like melodies Toronto. and embody the infi nity of the He trained in composition and universe.” piano performance at the University He is inspired by Bach, Sch- of Toronto and the oenberg, Messiaen, Royal Conservatory. Stockhausen, Shos- He has performed ‘I see art and takovich and Ernst at Harbourfront music as extensions Fuchs. Other in- Centre, Theatre spirations include Passe Muraille, of each other. The Middle Eastern mu- The Music Gallery, lines I draw in sic and mythology, Guelph Jazz my visual art are the Renaissance, Festival, Guelph like melodies and ambient minimal- Spring Festival, ism, musique con- John Farah performs at Making Room on Dec. 2 at 224 Wallace Ave., in Toronto. Victoria Chapel, the embody the infi nity créte and intricate Photo by Laura Narducci Drake Hotel, Harvest of the universe.’ electronic dance Festival and Om music. a Bosendorfer although he owns a Festival. According “There is a “sh**** up-right piano.” to his website he has also toured personal connection, there is “I internalize all the music, Toronto gallery France and Palestine, performing grandeur. I feel connected to the concepts, art, history, basically your at the Edward Said National aesthetics of their art and the perception of the world to create a Conservatory in Ramallah in 1999. architect. It’s like ancient and piece.” He says it is not diffi cult to In 2002 he gave performances and modern at the same time.” create his work but it is “just very master classes in Ramallah, East Farah says he creates abstract ink- time consuming. It involves a lot if celebrates decade Jerusalem and Bethlehem. line art that can take a few months refl ection and intuition.” “(Music is) just an outlet or a few years to complete. He Farah released a CD called for creativity, to express my describes his art as “the unfolding Creation. For more information on interpretation of the world.” of time.” His music is improvised Farah and his work, go to www. of Canadian artwork He says he became interested in and his favourite piano to play is johnfarah.com. By LAURA NARDUCCI Chou recently won an interior Staff Writer design award in New York City for Grip Offi ces. He had designed the It’s Archive’s 10th anniversary. old location of Archive on Queen Archive Inc., at 56 Berkeley Street. St. in Toronto, is a gallery and art Archive does not house artists’ library. Owners Patricia Christie work permanently. The gallery and Johnson Chou opened it in is a “non-exclusive function,” November 1996 at 883 Queen St. according to Christie. She says West but recently moved it to its Archive offers solo shows and new location. group shows as alternatives. At the old Queen Street Artist Katharine Harvey’s series location, Archive “takes its queue of new paintings called Fountain from a library – specifi cally a was featured from Oct. 26 to 1930s Modernist library with a Dec. 2. The exhibition was called contemporary twist,” says a Globe Deluge. Harvey says she has been and Mail article from May 1997. friends with Chou for years. Some Archive held a digital library of of her Fountain works have already over 4,000 Canadian works for sale sold. and rental. “They were all made at different By May of 1997, Archive gained times,” Harvey says. “I’m guessing another 2,000 images by local they took six months to make.” Canadian artists. Clients can look Annually Archive has a Glo show through the digital catalogue and featuring many artists in a group enter their requirements for work exhibition. This year is Archive’s they may want, according to a 10th diamond anniversary. Globe and Mail article by Kelvin Featured artists include John Browne from Jan. 25, 1997. Armstrong, Paul Collins, Millie Although now at a new location, Chun, Gary Michael Dault and Archive still has its digital library many more. of Canadian artists. Gallery hours are weekdays “We feature a digital database, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday from which we promote in fi lm and noon until 5 p.m. and Sunday by Shown is the interior of Archive Inc., at 56 Berkeley St., Toronto. The Deluge exhibition featured print,” says Christie “It’s available appointment only. Katharine Harvey’s work, from left, Fountain Three, Night Fountain One, Night Fountain Two, Night to other galleries as well.” For more information, call 416- Fountain Three and Below Five. Christie also works in fi lm, 703-6564 or visit the website www. Photo by Laura Narducci while Chou works as an architect. archivegallery.com.