niagara-news.com CHANGES TO WHAT GOES INTO YOUR BLUE BOX PAGE 6 THE COMING OF AGE WITH ‘BAND GEEK’ NN PAGE 11 NIAGARA NEWS JANUARY 25, 2019 • VOL. 50 ISSUE 6 WARS OF WORDS From populism to Indigenous rights, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau focused on civil discourse as he faced both protest and applause at Brock University. Stories and photos on pages 7-8

By VICTORIA NICOLAOU Staff Writer

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said social media and the way we commu- nicate has empowered xenophobic populism around the world, allowing concealed voices to connect and amplify one another. But, according to Trudeau, those voices are not as pow- erful as they seem. “It seems like they have a lot more volume and a lot more presence than they actually do,” said Trudeau. Trudeau spoke about the rise of populist rhetoric dur- ing a stop at Brock Univer- sity in St. Catharines, Ont. Jan. 15 as part of his cross- country town hall tour. Without naming names, Trudeau said politicians are taking society’s anxi- eties about an uncertain job market and questions about the future and using it against them. Trudeau said politicians are offer- ing understanding but no concrete solutions. But Trudeau said he feels inspired by conversations he’s had with people across the country. “We have a country that understands that respect- ing someone else’s funda- mental rights in no way takes away from your own fundamental rights,” said Prime Minister Justin Trudeau takes questions at a town hall hosted by Brock University in St. Catharines on Jan. 15. The event at Brock is the Trudeau. only Ontario stop on a countrywide tour. PHOTO BY VICTORIA NICOLAOU Continued on page 7 College accepts record number of students — again More than 2,000 new students this term as we continue to grow

By MADISON JUDSON semester. “With our student- Employment, Graduate Staff Writer The message from the focused, inclusive approach Satisfaction, Employer college seems to be: for a to applied learning at Ni- Satisfaction and Gradua- Niagara College is em- hands-on, post-secondary agara College, we continue tion rate. education and a warm, to attract students from Statistics show that last of a tight, inclusive com- welcoming environment, across Canada and around year had a student satisfac- phasizingmunity as allit continuesthe benefits to Niagara College is the the world to study with us.” tion rate of 78.4 per cent, a attract students and top all place to be. Niagara College has re- graduate employment rate enrollment records. “We are thrilled to wel- mained one of the top tier of 89 per cent, a graduate According to a press re- come our new students to colleges in Ontario due to satisfaction of 78.9 per lease from the college, the experience college life and cent, an employer satisfac- Welland and Niagara-on- begin their journeys to suc- Performance Indicators tion of 88.1 per cent and a the-Lake campuses will be cess,” said Niagara College the increase of the five Key graduation rate of 65.8 per having over 2,000 students President Dan Patterson in cent. The Core at the Welland campus, filled with new and starting during the winter the press release. (KPIs).Satisfaction, Graduate Continued on Page 2 returning students alike. PHOTO BY MADISON JUDSON The five KPIs are Student Page 2 NIAGARA NEWS • Jan. 25, 2019 NEWS Local activists support protest against pipeline

GUNCE AKPINAR Canada pipeline is set to offered to the earth and the Staff Writer pass through more than 60 reason why we do that is Indigenous communities tobacco is one of our four Activists rose in support and is going to affect wilder- sacred medicines,” says of the Wet’suwet’en terri- ness and marine life along Smith. tory in British Columbia and the West Coast of Canada, According to Indigenous its struggle against a pipe- opponents argue. legends, tobacco is a gift line in their territory, during Smith says she is disap- from the Creator, and if a a demonstration on Jan. 16, pointed with Trudeau. person is sick or old, this held in front of the Holiday “Three years ago, when person could use its smoke Inn in St. Catharines. he (Trudeau) started his The demonstration campaign he made a lot of woods and to remember included drums, signs and promises (to Indigenous tobeautiful find medicines days. in the a tobacco offering cer- peoples) but a lot of them But a person with great emony outside the hotel, are not actually true.” magic grows tobacco and where Prime Minister More than 50 people from keeps all of it for himself on Justin Trudeau was the different social groups of an island. guest speaker at a breakfast society were waiting for the Gluskabe who lives with fundraiser. sunrise to begin the tobacco his grandmother Wood- - offering. chuck, steals this tobacco rorized,” says Celeste Tobacco is one of the to share with everyone. He Smith,“We’re organizer definitely of terthe sacred medicines of Indig- says his children’s children protest. “What happened enous peoples. The other are going to grow tobacco in Wet’suwet’en was a plan three are sweetgrass, sage and are going to share with to terrorize us. It sends a and cedar. everyone. message to all the rest of, Tobacco burning or offer- Further, tobacco is a the Indigenous peoples who ing is one of the traditional way to show respect. If try to stop the pipeline. This ceremonies. It is a way to a younger person wants is what’s going to happen communicate with the Cre- information or advice from Protesters held signs until sunrise for the tobacco ceremony. to you.” ator they believe in. an elder, he or she needs to PHOTO BY GUNCE AKPINAR The controversial Trans- “Tobacco offering, we offer tobacco to the elders. Here’s what OSAP changes mean Students 10-per-cent tuition cut but also cuts to grants and interest-free grace period matter By TALA MUHTADI “Under the current pro- qualify for OSAP. The focus $50,000 will be eligible to However funds for health, in the Staff Writer gram, students from higher of OSAP is low-income receive up to 86 per cent of counselling and recreation income families were families, making it harder grants. will remain mandatory. Replacing the free tuition receiving grants just for for other students to be “If we look at the grants, The six-month interest- College grants with a 10 per cent applying - not because they eligible for grants. we’re actually increasing free period was also cut to university and had a demonstrated need,” “We want to ensure that the share of OSAP grants removed by Ford’s govern- college tuition fees, was says minister of Training, post-secondary education for families less than ment which made many Continued from Page 1 one of the many changes Colleges and Universities, remains accessible for all $50,000 dollars a year in students angry believing Casey Fevriere, an Inter- announced by Ontario Pre- Merrilee Fullerton. students,” says Niagara income. It’s going from 76 that they will have to start national Response Rep- mier Doug Ford’s govern- Free tuition is gone. College’s communications per cent to 82 per cent. paying back their loan right resentative, was a former ment, on Jan. 17. Previously, students could manager, Michael Wales. That’ll be an increase for after graduating. Niagara College student and The 2019-20 school year receive more grants than According to the previ- OSAP grants for families What many students now helps international stu- will receive a 10 per cent loans, which meant some ous Liberal plan, families below $50,000,” says don’t realize is that OSAP dents with inquiries about tuition cut, as well as be the students had the potential with annual incomes of Fullerton in a CBC Metro funds include both provin- the college. last year the Ontario Stu- to study for free. With the $140,000 (lowered from Morning interview. cial and federal funds, only “It’s a very welcoming dent Assistance Program’s changes made to tuition $175,000) or above are Ford is giving students the federal funds will be af- place,” said Fevriere. previous distribution rules and OSAP, the grants-to- only eligible to receive the opportunity to opt out fected by the change which “It doesn’t feel like a will apply. After that period, loan ratio can’t exceed 50 loans and no grant, on the of some school fees like means students don’t have school. It sometimes feels OSAP will be focusing on per cent. other hand families with school clubs, student news- to pay back their loans like a family.” low-income families. Fewer students may now annual incomes of less than papers and campus groups. fresh out of school. Niagara College has also been commended on their helpful staff and professors. “The teachers are Parking woes continue Administration Executive phenomenal,”Co-op student saidVanessa Office By DEVYN STEWART Last semester was notori- Charlie Short, another Keays. Staff Writer ously bad when it came to student at the college, “They’re easy to talk to anything parking related; - and reasonable.” - obtaining a parking pass, culty in getting a parking ties that come along with alsopass, expressed though he no noted diffi that beingThere a student, are many such difficul as ex- to the building you needed “others I know have had You get treated finding a parking spot close- “ like you matter routine and student fees. ing a parking spot. “Any time after 9 a.m. is here,” ams,Then essays, there’s finding the pain a good of toThis get to semester, and even students just find difficulty.” said Kar when asked about CASEY FEVRIERE right before class where least getting a parking pass. difficult to find parking,” Niagara College offers a tryingthere are to findnone a inparking sight. spot have“It washad easyno difficulty (getting in a at multitude of services and parking pass),” said Frank whenShort the said most noon difficult was the facilities including a gym, a parking spot) especially Kar, a student at the college, time finding a spot was. wide variety cafeteria, one“Yes, close (it tois hardthe building,” finding when asked about obtain- to park. However, most library, campus store, stu- said Jack Bull, a student ing a parking pass. hardestagreed that time between to find a 9 spot a.m. dent administrative council at Niagara College, in Last semester he didn’t and 1 p.m. was the hardest and more. response to the parking get the pass and had to pay “You get treated like you situation. at the ticket dispenser. parking lot is full. SUBMITTED PHOTO matter here,” said Fevriere. time to find a spot as the NIAGARA NEWS • Jan. 25, 2019 Page 3 NEWS Strong voices will not be silenced ‘Anti-racist, decolonial, fierce, bad-ass bitches’ are taking action against human rights issues in Niagara region and they demonstrated at the St. Catharines’ Women’s March

By BREANNE ELRICK Staff Writer don’t feel alone,” she says. inMartin that fight made too, it so very that clear you Activists of St. Catharines she’s chosen commitment were able to march togeth- to this work. “I’m here er in solidarity on Saturday, today to tell you that I’m Jan. 19, regardless of the intense snowfall or recent controversies surrounding done.you have I cannot created fit andto make I don’t the national organization, wantme small… to fit in to spaces silence which the Women’s March. essence of who I am so you Tegh Kaur and Renee can stand on my shoulders Martin, the organizers of and the shoulders of other this year’s march in St. marginalized people like Catharines, decided to sep- myself,” she says. “You want arate themselves from the sisterhood, you earn it. You National Women’s March have hundreds of years to due to harsh allegations, make up for and the debt including anti-semitism, grows daily. The choice is causing controversy. yours.” “Stop watching from the that this year we’re central- sidelines and thinking ‘oh I izing“We indigenous, definitely made black, sure live in dinky little St. Catha- and racialized perspec- rines,’ there is so much that tives as well as trans and needs to be done in this martialized perspectives,” community; whether, you’re says Kaur. “A lot of times racialized, disabled, queer, in movements, their co- these communities need to opted by (cisgender) white Participants at the St. Catharines’ Women’s March were able to show support and advocate for rights and start taking to the street,” women, higher class folks, freedom despite the cold winter temperatures on Saturday. PHOTO BY BREANNE ELRICK says Martin. “We need to people with privilege, and itself is being hotly debated in St. Catharines, is a local or in politics… in your territory, was also perform- start demanding more from they end up taking up a lot in the media right now with spoken slam artist and unions, whereever. You’ve ing at the Women’s March. our representatives, on of space.” charges of anti-semitism shared their spoken poetry got to start taking up more Lee started her set by every level of the govern- “So, we’re just centraliz- and racism,” says Martin. about struggles of segrega- space.” addressing racism in our ment. A change really needs ing that today and you’ll see “It has driven home the tion. “When my daughter was country. “In Canada, our to happen. I want people that today with the people message, once again, that about two or three. I was a brand of racism is polite. to understand that just that are going to be sharing the idea of a monolithic single mother and I became So, it’s harder to identify. because it’s St. Catharines, their stories.” womanhood or that people doDriscoll think it’s identifies important as ato involved in my union,” says No one is cheering you on doesn’t mean you can’t The march started at the coming together from dis- genderacknowledge fluent thatperson. I am “I not Smith. “It was never just when you’re being a femi- make change or can’t make British Methodist Epis- a woman,” says Driscoll. one meeting a month.” nist… people are dragging a difference.” copal Church. Nearly 30 unity or even commonality “Sometimes I feel weird in “When you become you down and they’re polic- Kaur and Martin have people walked through parate backgrounds finding- these spaces, but I do think involved, you really become ing you and shaming you. plans to make change and thick sheets of snow and sible task.” it’s cool to see that other involved.” The march is the celebra- they want residents to join. extremely low tempera- is “Thea very W difficult,omen’s March or impos is marginalized genders have Smith explains that chil- tion that happens once a “We want people to come tures to Mahtay Café, where supposed to be this grass- made space for us in these dren are no excuse not to year but, the work is every out and participate in the various activists and artists roots movement and yet, spaces.” take a role in politics. “Sur- day,” she says. Niagara Region Anti-Racism performed on stage. it was turning into that Driscoll made the crowd round yourself with people “You can’t do it some Association, we are doing Martin is a founder of despite the best inten- laugh at various times with who support you… with days and not others. Obvi- really good work,” Martin the Niagara Region Anti- tions of Carrie and Laura their comedic slam poetry people you can count on to ously, I encourage you to says. “You’re going to see Racism Association and (the previous organizers) about being fat, ignorance watch your kids. Bring your set boundaries and not try a lot of push back in the also what Kaur described as and I’m not dragging them to sexual orientations and kids with you, they will to educate every single ig- coming months from the “the backbone of so many in any which way,” said the struggle to relate to learn a lot,” she says. “Let norant person that crosses association… this is an movements in this region.” Martin. “So, we thought this family after going to uni- them understand the things your path,” says Lee. “It’s example of what we can do Kaur and Martin wanted to movement, this march can versity. that are going on.” something that we are go- when we start centralizing try something different for still be saved. It hasn’t gone “Women are at least 50 ing to choose to do for the marginalized voices. The this year’s women’s march, so far that people expect a generation St. Catharines per cent of the population. story changes, the event so they reached out to last certain thing.” resident,Vicki Lynn led theSmith, walking a fifth Women should have 50 the dignity of ourselves and looks different.” year’s organizers. “Despite This year’s St. Catharines portion of the march and per cent of the power,” said reveryoneest of our else, lives: the to freedom fight for Kaur says, “that was a their very best efforts, I spoke on stage. Smith. to choose and the freedom great start to 2019 and really felt like a square peg with poetry, songs, speech- “I wanted to speak about Janice Jo Lee, a Korean- to opportunity.” there’s more coming. So, Women’ses, dancing, March and morewas filled - all Canadian, musician, spoken “It’s good to have days St. Catharines, watch out. at the last two marches,” in solidarity to freedom More women need to step word poet, and theatre art- like today where we can get There’s anti-racist decolo- tryingsaid Martin. to fit in a round hole for all. women running for office. ist from in Kitchener, Ont., together, and you can see “The Women’s March Kathleen Driscoll, born Smith. “Not just in the city on Haldimand Tract treaty other people who are also coming at you.” up and run for office,” says nial fierce bad-ass bitches

Allison Richards was bundled up enough to bare the cold while supporting the St. Signs were made to show support while walking in solidarity to visibly advocate for Catharines Women’s March on Jan. 19. PHOTO BY BREANNE ELRICK the cause of the St. Catharines Women’s March. PHOTO BY BREANNE ELRICK Page 4 NIAGARA NEWS • Jan. 25, 2019 EDITORIAL Editor: Brienah Cassar Publisher: Linda Roote Associate Editor: Tala Muhtadi Managing Editor: Charles Kopun Assistant Editor: Michael Hane- Associate Editor: John Robbins C ANADIAN 2009 WINNER BNC2009 2009 WINNER maayer COMMUNITY Production Editor: Paul Dayboll NEWSPAPER Photo Editor: Sarah Hookey AWARD 2011 Online Production: Susan Pedler A step forward to equality Saudi Arabia’s rules which is the case for many are being questioned by Saudi women. human rights activists previousand lived generationsbravely through might around the world. It won’t have kept their mouths shut - makingDuring her her sure escape, that Al-her gen but it can be one of Qununfamily will renounced kill her Islam,if she theis why struggles, we are but seeing today’s more thebe the last first few. time this hap went back to Saudi Arabia. eration is fed up. That pens,Rahaf Al-Qunun’s story like the #MeToo move- her family started threaten- empoweringment. movements Her case didn’t ease up as Many women will follow willwom be a turning point for Al-Qunun retweeted her Al-Qunun and Lasloom’s the Middleworld are East, still as being many ingcousin’s her publicly threatening on Twitter. tweet en in that part of to slaughter her. - The United Nations High path and fight for their Commissioner for Refugees activists around the world oppressed.tion that maybe It has now been is a rights. It is just a matter (UNHCR) recognized the of when. In the meantime, broughtgood time to for people’s Saudi Arabia atten danger Al-Qunun is in and immediately started study- must work together to help Human rights and wom- ease the process for the rest en’s rights are a common to fix some of its laws. of the oppressed female as a refugee. es ing her case. Not long after, population. CanadaAl-Qunun accepted resides Al-Qunun in The first step to change likepolitical Al-Qunun’s subject thatin the make 2019 Toronto away from danger Arabia’s case this is the you wonder why some is separating religion from era, but still there are cas politics,main reason because women in Saudi are countries (Saudi Arabia) in lack some basic human Rahaf Mohammed Al-Qunun, a Saudi woman seeking asylum in Canada on Jan. 12. asare of saying Jan. 11. that Meanwhile she is lying is so much different from rights towards the women SUBMITTED PHOTO forthe “rebellious” Middle East reasons people oppressed. Today’s world in those societies. because “how can she Saudi American Public like the world evolved and Relations Affair Commit- The Saudi government will take her seriously.” the religious times, and just old Saudi woman who man- holidaying in Kuwait with pressed. ofDaffa that also “No did judicial not deny system that change with it. aged to use social media to dealing with this situation. Al-Qunun is an 18-year- beher oppressed family?” if she was changed,No one someshould rules live shouldwith So travelling makes u didWhile not Al-Qunun do a good was job barri-at teefrom (SAPRAC), her family says and that not the who renounces Islam will the fear of not knowing of her family. for not being able to control Al-Qunun is just in danger underbe sentenced Saudi laws, to death. anyone How how Saudi Arabia dealt with help her escape the abuse your li p Saudi embassy was work- does this not show the dan- future. Women should be talks about her father and cadeding with at the Thaihotel embassy room, the government,other similar Icases look backlike Dina at ger and the unfairness of able to make their own brother abusing her for against Al-Qunun. what to expect for the On Twitter, Al-Qunun withoutfe, a right? male-guardian’s Yes Saudi the Saudi government? decisions and be able to taking off her hair cover They lied to her about citizen who ran away seek- women can travel, but not th- (which she is required to work but only as long as getting her visa to Australia Aliing Lasloom,asylum. another Saudi is actually working on out being under the mercy wear by law). She talks (where she was heading) In an interview with TRT permission. Yes they can- Also, if the government pursueof male guardians.their dreams wi about her broher locking “It is wrong to make any- Saudi government would her in her room for days their male guardian ap - improving equality like they because she cut her hair out the government making andget inside took her her passport room to fromget World news, Daffa says the claim,arrested why and are tortured/ha- activists like proves. Yes they can drive - short. Al-Qunun also talks (as of 2015) but not with- her. They also kept trying to Loujain al-Hathloul getting one feel belittled, unsafe, about her family’s ability to to Kuwait. be “The number 1 entity to Saud harassedTrudeau inor a assaulted,” town hall sure that their whole ex herSo on when the nextsomeone flight like back protect her withinold teen the sheking rassed in jail? saysmeeting Prime in St.Minister, Catharines Justin on - periencetravelling is doesn’t a living change hell. So dom,”doesn’t and know that a because lot about she i Arabia keeps stop her from marrying the to answer the question no, - isher an religion 18-year- and because screwingare getting up sick in terms of it. The of TALA MUHTADI person she wants, control Reem Daffa, vice-president human rights and people Tuesday, Jan. 15. ling her beliefs and her life, and executive director of Rightlythe factfurious that someone is op with new OSAP rules Ontario students’ futures - Although tuition costs will rather than be forced to risk gaining too much inter- and education may be est on their dormant loans. changing for the worse after ratio to a minimum of 50 ofagencies) the provincial warned govern that costs will be getting more loans never make use of them. This means many new Doug Ford government perOSAP cent funding loan. Thisto students means associatedment, its ministries with the OSAPand anbe slightly less, students payAdditional for them feesall even that if the they students will most likely changes the Ontario Student thatwill be50 aper loan cent and or the more rest of hundred dollars off tuition students cho struggle after graduation. Assistance Plan (OSAP). will be grants. d less grants. A couple More loans mean more This resulted in the grant program had risen by amount of money students The fees theyose can to pay choose for government announced 25Progressive per cent. Conservatives can add up to $2,000 extra.- andThey start will immediatelyneed to set up after a The reason this is being reducing the family income is nothing compareday back toonce the On Jan. 17, the Ontario es and athletics fees which job before they graduate that it was eliminating free done is to save the govern- threshold required to for the students to pay back. from exclude health servic their loans. tuition for low-income ment money in the long qualify for OSAP funding. will have to p students. theirin revenue schooling will amountis complete. to tuition. in That’sorder tomuch stay easier on top said of run. More money will be Eligible low-income than done. Before these new laws students can still qualify Not only that, the loss areAside mandatory from OSAP and fundingpart of - through grants. for funding to cover their even look at someone’s families’ income was meaning$360 million the schoolsfor universities will dents are angry about is the paidBecause back rather low-income than kept resume if they haven’t kicked in, students whose cuts,elimination the thing of themost int stuerest Many employers don’t families will no longer get will be a loan rather than a and $80 million for colleges - receive free average tuition. free tuition if they make tuitiongrant. fees but part of it somewhere. $50,000This means or less that would OSAP During the same time after students graduate. haveIf cutting to make so up little the off loss finishedbefore t the required educa grants would - will be harder for students the government made free, six-month grace period tuition and giving stu- tion, let alone hire them ceed the tuition costs. underfrom these a certain families amount, to go it dents greater debt causes hey’ve completed it. equal or ex the schools to lose mass This grace period allowed OSAP funding went to low careers they want to. changescent decrease to OSAP, in university Ontario students six months to get - theVery Ontario few, ifgovernment any at all, are has ing themselves while also madepleased regarding with the OSAP decisions and incomeSeventy-six families per making cent of to school and pursue the alsoand collegeannounced tuitions a 10 for per the seems worth it. a job, earn money, and be student funding. government had increased amounts of money, it hardly more prepared for support amount has been increased the number of OSAP grants These cuts mean college Whether the new laws The previous Liberal will be able to choose which under $50,000 a year. That 2019-2020 year. rstudentsepaying aretheir required loans. to for the free tuition cut. Auditor General (an assem- additionalOn the plus fees side, they students want to Now with the new laws, all students can do is watch to 82 per cent, making up butbly thatrecently conducts the province’s value-for- studentsuniversity will students pay about about - playas they out unfold. as planned or not, changing the grant-to-loan $340 less in tuition, and startsibly payingcan after back graduation student or BRIENAH CASSAR But even so, OSAP is also pay, whether that be clubs loans as soon as they pos money and financial audits $660 less. or campus organizations, NIAGARA NEWS • Jan. 25, 2019 Page 5 OPINION From center stage to live television relevant no matter what year we’re in. Much like SARAH West Side Story (and we’re HOOKEY that folks so hold onto your Columnist gettinghat) the a social remake situations film of we face today can still be found in this musical that is decades old, and the les- sons never wear out. I for Rent-heads, the Tony award one plan on watching with winningIt’s finally musical happening Rent is two parents who don’t have coming to a television near much Broadway knowledge you in a live production. So, beyond Hamilton, Wicked don your No Day but Today and Phantom of the Opera. t-shirts and get ready to sing Will it be censored?: If along to Seasons of Love. you know Rent at all, you’ll Here is everything you understand why this is need to know before you even a question. This show watch. is not for the faint of heart. It’s provocative, brazen and When: Sunday, Jan. 27 at it doesn’t mince its words. 8 p.m. Rent features the best and worst of society and Where: FOX rather than try to hide it, it hands it all to us wrapped Length: Approximately in musical numbers that three hours. The unfor- make us simultaneously tunate part is that when you factor in commercials the struggles people have approximately every seven laughfaced throughoutand cry. It reflects the years minutes, you’ll realize that The cast of FOX’s Rent: Live, set to air on FOX on Sunday, Jan. 27, 2019 at 8 p.m. SUBMITTED PHOTO and exposes the raw truth it’s almost guaranteed that of life as a struggling artist at least some of Rent will be in Hamilton on Broadway dict respectively while the Heights.) will become don’t like Broadway,” even in the middle of the AIDs as John Laurens will star as Hamilton on Broadway’s performance artist Mau- though his or her personal crisis. So yes, unfortunately allotted time. With a piece Mark Cohen, the narrator of Brandon Victor Dixon (also reen Johnson and Kiersey experience with theatre there is more than a good cutso poignant, in order toit’s fit unfortunate within the the show and a struggling known for his role as Judas Clemons (Flatliners, Ex- probably just consists of chance that Rent will be to lose any of it but alas, this Jewish-American documen- in Jesus Christ Superstar: tant) is set to portray Mau- YouTube parody videos, censored. After all FOX is perhaps one of the many Live last year) brings to reen’s girlfriend Joanne watching The Sound of heavily rewrote the lyrics to downfalls of a Broadway Brennin Hunt (X-Factor life supporting character Jefferson. Music and Grease as a Grease Lightning for 2016’s musical being adapted for tarySeason filmmaker. 1 contestant) has big Tom Collins, an anarchist Who to watch with: kid, albeit reluctantly and Grease: Live, (go read the television. - professor with AIDs. Well, if you have friends a vague memory of the lyrics to that song and you’ll throb Roger Davis, who was Lastly, Ru Paul Drag who measure their lives in overture from Phantom Cast: shoesoriginally to fill played as rocker by Adam heart Race contestant Valentina daylights, sunsets, mid- of the Opera. Trust me, I quite memorable number Rent: Live boasts an Pascal in both the original will take on the role of nights and cups of coffee, know a person like that so figureLa Vie outBoheme why.) is Rent’s sure to interesting blend of actors drag-queen Angel Dumott (see what I did there?) I’d I bet you do too. Still, I say be subjected to that same bringing to life these beloved American singers Mario Schunard, Vanessa Hud- ask them anyway. In my treatment. characters. Broadwayand Tinashe cast will and portray film. gens (Disney’s High School ask literally anyone else. humble opinion, Rent has Of course, there’s no way Jordan Fisher, best known Musical, Grease: Live’s askEven them that first.one friend But if wenot, all transcended the role of just to know for sure until it airs. for his role in Disney’s Liv of Mark and Roger and Mimi leading lady as the prob- have who scoffs at the mere another musical, instead Well, that’s about all you and Maddie, Grease: Live as BenjaminMarquez an Coffin HIV-positive III, landlord lematic Rizzo and Kennedy mention of show tunes becoming a piece of art that need to know for Rent: Live. Dodie and even a brief stint club dancer and drug ad- Center’s production of In and loudly proclaims, “I is timeless and painfully Happy watching! Gillette men: Relax. No risk of masculinity burn indication of what people advertisement attacking are feeling regarding the men for what they believe issues touched on by Gil- to be the ideal image of MICHAEL lette’s ad. You can read masculinity and labelling it HANEMAAYER some of their thoughts in as “toxic masculinity?” Columnist the comment section below I don’t think that is the the video. The following are case. several examples: The ad asked men to hold “Boycott these libtard soy one another accountable An ad released by Gillette boys! Never give in to the because they are raising the has left men feeling a bit mainstream agenda!” next generation. irritated, and no, this isn’t a “I was once so proud to The ad says, “We believe bad case of razor burn. own Gillette products es- in the best in men. To say Is Gillette no longer pecially for Christmas, one the right thing; to act the meant for sensitive skin? year ago my wife gave me right way. Some already On Jan. 14, Gillette up- a Star Wars edition razor. are in ways big and small. loaded an advertisement However, this continued as- But some is not enough on YouTube that called for sault on masculinity needs because the boys watching men to do better and hold to end, we’re men we need today will be the men of one another accountable in to protect our women, our tomorrow.” order to reach the point of be- sisters, moms, daughters, Do I think the advertise- ing “the best a man can be.” wives and raise our boys ment could have been better The ad told men to be to do so when we pass. Not orchestrated? Yes. better. To not harass women. Gillette’s advertisement, uploaded on Jan. 14, has faced major backlash for suppos- raise the soy boys.... down Do I believe that men To not bully. To be better edly attacking men by addressing the issue of toxic masculinity. with feminism.” have been victimized in this fathers raising children and SUBMITTED PHOTO “Enjoy going broke instance? No. to be upstanding members Gillette. Insulting your cli- women; the men who don’t man may suddenly turn as this: that this isn’t saying of society, and some men Men who are good to entele generally doesn’t get discourage their kids from though we were living with that all men are terrible. were outraged. women shouldn’t be upset them wanting to buy your bullying other children may some sort of virus. It’s a This is a call to action. The amount of dislikes by this advertisement. Men feel like they haven’t done message that calls men to products, and appealing At the end of the day, if versus likes on the video is who raise their children enough. be better. to soy boys, feminists and to not bully one another you feel a need to boycott, massive and shows exactly Regardless of whether Shouldn’t we all be striv- you should do that. To be SJWs (social justice war- should not feel attacked. or not you agree with the ing for self-improvement? what many people are feel- perfectly honest, for me, ing regarding subjects such riors) in general won’t give I think that the only men ad, I think the message is a Shouldn’t we all look to as the #MeToo movement you a new customer base who should be upset by good one. be better examples to the Schick has always been the and the issue of “toxic mas- because they don’t shave... Gillette’s advertisement The message isn’t one young people around us? way to go anyway. culinity.” even though many of them are those men who have cautioning people to keep The conclusion that one But that isn’t the only desperately need to.” Is this on the alert because any really needs to reach is razors in your toilet. Just don’t flush your harassed and objectified Page 6 NIAGARA NEWS • Jan. 25, 2019 NEWS Re-thinking Niagara waste collection Region working on new ways to improve waste collection in the 2021 contract

By TALA MUHTADI Staff Writer

Niagara Region is consid- ering every-other-week gar- bage collection for the 2021 waste collection contract. The Region’s Public Works committee has been trying to come up with new ideas for the new contract to reduce waste and save money. “There is both the envi- well as cost avoidance for ronmentalthe next collection benefits contract,” of it as says program manager with waste policy and planning, Brad Whitelaw. During the month of November, the Public Works committee started a survey asking residents for their opinions on the proposed options that are being con- sidered in the next contract. Whitelaw says munici- palities which are already adopted the every-other- week collection programs have seen an increase in their diversion rate. The proposed ideas in- clude every-other-week col- lection, the use of clear bags, putting a limit on large item collection and the elimina- tion of heavy goods. The decision for every- Emterra staff worker poses in front of garbage truck in Thorold, Ont. on Jan. 15. PHOTO BY TALA MUHTADI other-week garbage collection doesn’t include hang on to their recycling like leachate and methane posed to the idea of using bags is to increase aware- According to Whitelaw, organics or recyclables. and their organics,” adds gas which have to be treat- clear bags for privacy rea- ness of what’s placed in if staff see any recyclables, The committee wants to Whitelaw. “They actually ed, so reducing the amount sons. Whitelaw commented the garbage so things like organics or hazardous mate- encourage people to use will naturally put/utilize on that saying residents can recycling, the organics, as rial in the garbage, it won’t their more environmentally their green bin and their reduce the amount of toxins use opaque bags inside the well as hazardous materials be picked up, which will en- friendly garbage cans. recycling box more.” ofin garbagethe environment. in landfills will clear bags. should not be placed in the courage the residents to use “Residents don’t want to Garbage creates things Some residents are op- “The idea with using clear garbage,” says Whitelaw. their green and blue bins. Changes to regional collection services By MICHAEL forward to servicing the collection the Region has have become accustomed to call CWMI at 289-723- pickup date. HANEMAAYER region and the town and been experiencing. to. 1230 or toll free at 1-877- Alternatively, you can sub- Staff Writer In the same press release, Residents are reminded 780-9781 regarding large mit an online request two professional manner.” Bradley says, “Although we that the grey and blue-box item pickup two business business days before your Niagara Region is making townshipRepresentatives in an efficient from both and have seen some improve- materials may be picked up days before the regular scheduled pickup date. efforts to improve waste the Region and CWMI were ments, the Region continues at different times. Similarly, pickup by bringing in anoth- unavailable for comment. to work with both CWMI garbage may be picked up er waste collection company CWMI has hired more and Emterra to ensure sat- at different times than to help reduce delays. staff and sourced extra isfactory service delivery.” green bin materials. Canadian Waste Manage- trucks to help keep a consis- The changes to the col- Those living in single- ment Inc. (CWMI) has taken tent and timely pace in the lection services will not family homes and apart- over the collection routes collection of the two munic- change the Region’s plan ments with no more than in Lincoln and West Lincoln ipalities’ garbage, recyclable for a new waste collection six units will now be asked from primary contractor and organic materials. contract in 2021. Emterra, according to a Emterra will move the Collection days press release that was sent trucks and staff that were will stay the same out by the Niagara Region. being used in Lincoln and across the region, Niagara Region Chair- West Lincoln to other but times may man Jim Bradley says in the municipalities in the region vary from what release, “Providing timely to help offset the delays in residents may waste collection for the residents of Niagara is one of our top priorities.” After experiencing some unforeseeable complica- tions, CWMI created new routes for pickup. In the same press release Matthew Dean, president and CEO of CWMI, says, “We will continue to make ad- justments as we develop a better understanding of the Town of Lincoln and Town- ship of West Lincoln.” “We would like to apolo- gize for the delays and look Page 7 NIAGARA NEWS • Jan. 25, 2019 Page 8 TRUDEAU VISIT Trudeau gets mostly good grades from BE ‘AGENTS Brock students By VICTORIA NICOLAOU been shrugged off or accepted is OF CHANGE,’ Staff Writer now no longer acceptable.” Trudeau said he is looking to Brock University student support a bill from Conservative Karishma Janke discovered through politician Rona Ambrose calling for PM TELLS Instagram that Canadian Prime mandatory training for all judges in Minister Justin Trudeau was going order to be better equip at dealing to be at the University as part of a with sexual assault cases in court. Canada-wide town hall tour. Trudeau went even further, de- Janke, and fellow Brock student claring that all organizations need STUDENTS Ashleigh Curtis, were excited to get to hold themselves accountable Continued from page 1 ian president, only saying in his re- a chance to hear Trudeau speak, as and take responsibility for changes Trudeau encouraged people sponse that Canada makes its own well to hear the opinions of other moving forward. throughout the evening to come “foreign policy determinations.” students and community members “It is wrong to make anyone together “to have real conversa- Trudeau also refused to retract about Trudeau’s government in an feel belittled, unsafe, harassed or tions” - especially in an election his condemnation of the Boycott, open environment. assaulted in their place of work or year - but “to do it in a respectful Divestment and Sanctions move- “It was nice to just listen to life,” said Trudeau. “It is the respon- way that doesn’t shut down or shut ment (BDS) – a boycott of Israel’s everything, both negative and posi- sibility of every single one of us to off people.” goods and services due to its treat- tive,” said Janke. stand up speak out and say enough Trudeau took questions for over ment of Palestinians - that came “It was a privilege to be here.” is enough. To be supportive, to be an hour from a mostly supportive during an apology last November Janke is originally from Mauri- respectful and to start from a place crowd of 1500 people that in- for Canada’s refusal to protect Jew- tius, an island nation in the Indian of belief and support when some- cluded both Brock students and the ish refugees during the Holocaust. Ocean. She moved to Canada in one comes forward with a story of greater Niagara community, many Trudeau said movements like 2012 seeking a better future. harassment or assault.” of whom waited hours in the bitter BDS are attempting to delegitimize Although Janke did not have a Curtis was thankful as she lis- cold for a chance to see the Prime and demonize Israel and the pro- chance to ask Trudeau a question, tened to Trudeau speak, but was Minister. motion of Israel Apartheid Week on she said the changes Trudeau has not surprised. While much of the crowd was college campuses by the BDS is un- made in the immigration system – “I think he’s always been re- appreciative, Trudeau faced a few acceptable, leaving many students in 2017 the Trudeau government ally strongly opinionated about tough moments, particularly from fearful of attending campus events welcomed 300,000 immigrants women’s rights and how gender the Indigenous community. because of their religion. and from 2018 – 2021 the Trudeau equality is very important and I Protesters gathered outside the “We have to recognize that there government expects to welcome appreciate that a lot. I think all main entrance of Brock to protest are things that aren’t acceptable, more than 1.3 million people under women do,” said Curtis. the British Columbia oil-pipeline, not because of foreign policy various economic, family and Curtis said Trudeau has tried to as well as the treatment of the concerns but because of Canadian refugee humanitarian immigration empower all woman, especially values,” said Trudeau. categories - has allowed people those coming to Canada as immi- ‘There is still going “I will continue to con- from around the world to settle in grants, like Janke, whose families demn the BDS move- Canada “to have a better life.” may have different religious views. to be turbulence as we figure ment.” Janke and Curtis were both im- “He’s still trying to empower out how to be fully respectful But Trudeau did re- pressed with Trudeau’s answers those women as well which is really state in the town hall - nice and thoughtful,” said Curtis. and thoughtful that Canada’s desire ly in regards to the environment Janke said Trudeau is “giving is for a two-state solution throughoutand climate thechange, evening as well specifical as women more power in the right in our approach’ negotiated directly by Israel and women’s rights. way” by extending maternity leave the Palestinian people consistent “He was able to actually answer from 12 months to 18 months Wet’suwet’en Nation earlier this with the values as “citizens of the the questions intelligently because and by including paternity leave. month by the RCMP. world.” he has a passion about it, and being Sharing parental responsibilities One audience member asked Trudeau faced questions on a young he sees the world in a dif- between two parents give women Trudeau to explain in “relatable, variety of other subjects, ranging ferent way from previous govern- “more choices.” truthful language” why he was from the legalization of marijuana ments,” said Janke. Janke and Curtis said they felt allowing the “forcible removal of and cyberterrorism, to biotech- Trudeau was honest throughout Wet’suwet’en First Nation people nology and his thoughts on the PHOTO BY MICHAEL HANEMAAYER night was about Canada’s justice the town hall, acknowledging when from their land.” Toronto Maple Leafs. system,Trudeau’s and itsfinal failure question in regards of the to he made a mistake or experienced Trudeau was categorical in Absent from the town hall were the punishment of sexual assaults. a failure. admitting the mistakes Canada any questions related to Canada’s “We are seeing a real awakening “What I like about him is to be made with the Wet’suwet’en. Even tenuous relationship with China going on, a real change in society,” able to say when you were wrong, though the pipeline has the support and Saudi Arabia. We’re ‘talking really loudly’ but not listening said Trudeau. “What has always you were wrong,” said Janke. of some elected Chiefs, Trudeau Near the end of the town hall said there are many hereditary Trudeau was asked about his By TALA MUHTADI before. And the proof was the many ity for making decisions with the chiefs that are not in support of the legacy as he faces an election year. Staff Writer hands raised when asked if students people who lived off this land,” says pipeline and Canada needs to do Trudeau said he wants to make felt it was easier to get their hands Trudeau. better. sure citizens feel a responsibility Empowering citizens to feel on a joint than a bottle of beer. Addressing women’s rights is- “It was not handled the way it for the direction of the country, and “connected and responsible for the Trudeau says every single dollar sues, Trudeau says he wants the could have been, or should have direction of Canada.” spent on legal marijuana is a dollar Canadian government to legislate been,” said Trudeau. or person to solve every problem. That’s the legacy Prime Minister less going to the black market. And in a way that keeps Canada “mov- Trudeau said the government is do“Understand not wait for thata specific we are politician all, Justin Trudeau wants to achieve any money not going into the black ing in the right direction,” but that working hard to build a new path every single one of us, empowered for himself. market is money that can be used can’t be done with half the popula- with Indigenous people in Canada, in this modern society to be active, Trudeau made his remarks during in other useful investments, such as tion held back. but there is a lot more work to do. engaged citizens that are agents of a town hall meeting at Brock Uni- health care and education. “We need to make sure that we “There is still going to be turbu- change,” said Trudeau. versity, in St. Catharines, on Jan. 15. On the issue of sustainable en- understand that defending wom- The town hall During the gathering, Trudeau ergy and climate change, Trudeau en’s rights and giving up opportu- fully respectful and thoughtful in at Brock University talked about the necessity of says he wants to help ordinary nities isn’t just a matter of women’s lenceour approach,” as we figure said out Trudeau. how to be is the only Ontario citizens listening to each other, families through the transition. The rights but a matter of human rights Another audience member asked stop for Trudeau respecting each other’s opinions government is investing in tech- and for the success of our country,” Trudeau why Canada has not rec- on his cross- country and working together. nology and encouraging science, says Trudeau. ognized Venezuela’s new govern- tour. “People are talking really loudly, innovation and research. The Canadian government is ment, led by President Nicolas not necessarily listening to each “We need our kids to have a better providing child support, child wel- Maduro, but has recognized the other,” says Trudeau. future. We need jobs for them. We new Brazilian government. One of the questions addressed to need to make sure that our environ- weeks of use-it-or-lose-it vacation Trudeau was resolute in con- Trudeau was why make marijuana ment is protected,” says Trudeau. faretime and given second-parent to all employees. leave – five demning Maduro calling him “an legal and easier for kids to get their The pipeline controversy was Trudeau mentioned female illegitimate dictator” who is not re- hands on. This question gained the also mentioned during the town judges are being trained so cases specting Venezuela’s “constitution, speaker many looks of disbelief and hall. Modern pipelines are much like sexual assault are dealt with in the rule of law and the principles of laughs, to which Trudeau replied by safer and cleaner to the environ- the best way possible. what is true and fair.” reminding the crowd to listen and ment than current ways of oil Things that were always shrugged Venezuela’s 2018 election is respect others opinions. transfer, says Trudeau. off or accepted are no longer accept- widely viewed as illegitimate and Trudeau then explained how He says Indigenous people are able, he says. “I truly believe we are Trudeau called for all friends of some studies show alcohol is more involved with the pipeline process. seeing an awakening.” Venezuela to stand up and con- dangerous than marijuana. And, according to Trudeau, some Some Canadian citizens are demn a Maduro government re- But that is not the reason the gov- chiefs are supportive of the pipe- concerned about cyber security. sponsible for “terrible oppression” ernment decided to legalize mari- line, while some chiefs are not. “Cyber security is an area where and “terrible marginalization.” juana, says Trudeau. The legaliza- “We need to make sure that we Canadians will continue to excel Trudeau did not mention Trudeau was asked a variety of questions ranging from his thoughts on the Toronto Maple Leafs to tion will make it harder for kids to are sharing the opportunities, on a global stage,” Trudeau said to Approximately 1,500 people attended Trudeau’s town hall at Brock Canada’s recognition of the Brazil- international issues. PHOTO BY MICHAEL HANEMAAYER get their hands on marijuana than - ease their minds. University. PHOTO BY LISA KELLEY

the benefits, and the responsibil NIAGARA NEWS • Jan. 25, 2019 Page 9 NEWS 2019: YEAR OF FREE SPEECH Doug Ford’s government orders schools to implement ‘Free Speech’ policy first thing in this new year. Are they ready? Story by Renato Pedreschi

ll public post-secondary schools and viewpoints can be explored and in Ontario, universities and discussed freely and debated openly Acolleges, were ordered by the without fear of reprisal, even if these are provincial government to have a free- considered to be controversial or con- speech policy in place by Jan. 1. The deadline was levied in response to the college community. campus protests across North America flictA statement with the views that it of is some not the members colleges’ of that, at times, prevented scheduled role to shield members of the college com- speakers to address crowds due to their munity from ideas they disagree with. controversial opinions. Although colleges greatly value civil- Delivering on a promise Premier Doug ity and all members of colleges share Ford made during the spring election, responsibility for maintaining a climate The Progressive Conservative govern- of mutual respect, it is not the role of ment said that Ontario colleges and uni- colleges to shield members of the college versities must come up with free speech community from ideas and opinions that policies or face funding cuts. “Colleges and universities should be It is up to individuals and not colleges places where students exchange differ- theyto make may such find judgmentsdisagreeable for or themselves offensive. ent ideas and opinions in open and re- and to debate and challenge ideas that spectful debate,” Ford said in statement. “Our government made a commitment A statement that while members of the to the people of Ontario to protect free theycollege find community unacceptable. are free to contest the speech on campuses.” views of others, they must also respect the In Ontario, protests — and even ar- rights of others to express their views. rests — have followed controversial Members of the college community are speakers such as University of Toronto free to criticize and contest the views of professor Jordan Peterson and Lindsay others; however, they may not obstruct Shepherd, a Wilfrid Laurier graduate or interfere with the freedom of others student and teaching assistant who was to express their views. The rights of oth- disciplined after showing her students a ers to express or hear ideas must also video of Peterson. be respected. Colleges may reasonably Peterson, who said on Twitter this was regulate the time, place and manner of “good news on the free speech front,” freedom of expression to ensure that it does not disrupt normal college opera- against the use of gender-neutral pro- tions and ordinary college activities or gainednouns and notoriety is now for a best-selling his public fight author. endanger the safety of others. While many institutions, like Brock An affirmation that speech that violates University, elected to make their own the law is not allowed. policy, all 24 publicly funded colleges in Speech that violates the law, including Ontario collaborated on one policy to By mandate of the provincial government, all publicly funded post-secondary the Ontario Human Rights Code, is not stand behind. schools were required to have a free-speech policy in place by Jan. 1, meant to allowed. Speech that constitutes harass- The policy statement, which was de- encourage free and open discussion in the classroom. ment, a threat or hate speech is not veloped by a task force of senior college PHOTO BY RENATO PEDRESCHI - leaders in collaboration with the College ies to freedom of expression may also Student Alliance, legal experts and oth- mented by all 24 Ontario colleges: knowledge and ideas and leads to social alappllowed.y, such Other as those context-specific arising out boundarof the ers, is primarily based on the University A definition of freedom of speech. and economic advancement. terms of employment and collective of Chicago’s Statement on Principles Freedom of expression, which means A commitment to allow open discussion agreements. the right to speak, write, listen, chal- and free inquiry. The policy also states that colleges will lenge and learn, must be protected as it Colleges must be places that allow for - ofmatched Free Expression up with their and corresponding has five core is essential to discovery, critical assess- open discussion and free inquiry where pliance with the policy a condition for elements.section of Herethe free-speech are those five policy elements imple- ment and the effective dissemination of diverse voices can be heard and ideas consider official student groups’ com

financial support or recognition. Burlington hosts one last concert for ‘Beard Guy’ Taylor By LINDSAY TARRINGTON map. He was a huge ambas- Saint Alvia. Staff Writer sador for us around the recipient.” “Everybody feels, right world and he always talked fittingWard to announced make him the firstpro- now, a little bit different,” Walk Off the Earth about his roots in Burling- gram at the tribute concert said Sarah Blackwood, a member Mike “Beard Guy” ton.” held at Civic Square, down- member of Walk Off the Taylor will be mourned by Taylor died from natural town Burlington on Jan. 13, Earth, at the start of the con- Burlington residents for a causes in his sleep on Dec. where she presented the cert. “Of course, everybody long time and remembered 29, leaving behind two key to Taylor’s bandmates. is shocked and saddened, through a new Key to the children. When asked how long but we also want you guys City program. “Mike had a love for life it took to organize the to know that tonight is Canadians across the that was unmatched and a concert, Ward laughed and about coming together and country were saddened willingness to give that went said, “Normally, a long time. expressing love and happi- when they found out the beyond ordinary needs,” But we put it together in a ness, and we want to cel- keyboardist had died, but said the band in a statement week.” ebrate Mike for the incred- the news affected Burling- they released on Twitter Walk Off the Earth and ible man that he was.” ton residents in a different the next day. “Our deepest the Sound of Music Festi- Hundreds of bundled-up way. sympathies are with his two val organization worked people attended the tribute “After everyone heard that children, whom he adored together on the idea before concert in downtown Mike had died, there was a more than anything else in approaching the city to see Burlington despite the cold huge outpouring of grief in the world.” Hundreds of people gathered at Civic Square in if they could make it work. weather. The crowd’s ap- the community,” says Mayor After Taylor’s death, Ward Burlington in the cold to watch a variety of Canadian Ward says everyone had Marianne Meed Ward. says she was approached by bands perform as a tribute for Mike “Beard Guy” a role and the city “threw because everyone was wear- Ward says Taylor, 51, grew many people asking the city Taylor. PHOTO BY LINDSAY TARRINGTON everything they had” at the ingplause mittens. was often muffled up in Burlington and was to do something to recog- idea and were able to make Kelly’s Bake Shoppe, a heavily involved in the com- nize and honour him. Ward says the intent of good representatives of the it happen. local business, provided free munity throughout his life She looked at different op- the program is to honour city while in other commu- The tribute included hot chocolate for those who as a friend, a family member, tions in which the city could individuals or organizations nities. acoustic performances by attended the tribute. a teacher, a hockey dad and honour Taylor, and decided “Mike was all of that and many Canadian bands in- “To see it come together even a “drinking buddy.” to start a new Key to the contributions and been more,” says Ward. “And so, cluding Walk Off the Earth, like that so quickly, it’s “He was such an amazing City program that she had whogood have ambassadors made significant to the I thought, we need to start Barenaked Ladies, Arkells, never been done before,” Burlington resident,” says seen other municipalities do city, have invested in the a program to honour our Scott Helman, Monster says Ward. “But we did it, Ward. “He put us on the to recognize their citizens. community and have been citizens, and it’s just so Truck, USS, Darenots and and we’ll do it again.” Page 10 NIAGARA NEWS • Jan. 25, 2019 NEWS What to see at Toronto auto show From a Bugatti made of Legos to the much-hyped new Toyota Supra at 2019 event By THOMAS HUNDAL ponderous and slightly slow new Aviator three-row Staff Writer compared to the competi- crossover may seem a bit tion. So for the 2020 model bland, the execution is any- The Canadian Interna- year, Lexus decided to thing but. 400 horsepower tional Autoshow in Toronto respond to these criticisms on even the least-powerful is still the juggernaut of by kicking subtlety out of a models. Acres of leather Canadian autoshows. tenth-story window. and real wood. Available 2018 marked its third The exhaust system is 30-way heated, cooled and consecutive year of record- now made from titanium, massaging seats. breaking attendance with the brake rotors are now A push-button shifter 358,842 attendees. 2019 is carbon ceramic, many of inspired by the keys on set to be its greatest year the suspension bits are a grand piano. Warning yet with new attractions now aluminum, the half- chimes recorded by the De- including a life-size model shafts are now hollow and troit Symphony Orchestra. of a Bugatti Chiron made the intake manifold and air The Aviator is a grand exer- out of Lego, a competition conditioning compressor cise in hedonistic American to crown the fastest Forza are both smaller and light- luxury. Check it out on the Motorsport 7 player in the er. All these weight-loss Lincoln stand. measure save 176 pounds Acura NSX. over the current RC F. 2020 Ram Heavy Duty country,Of course, a raffle the formain a new The 5-litre V8 engine The heavy-duty truck highlight of the show is market has always been all the new vehicle debuts horsepower, the axle ratio dominated by numbers and Expect to see the new 2020 Toyota GR Supra at the 2019 Canadian International getsis shorter an additional than before five the new Ram Heavy Duty unveiled vehicles expected Autoshow. SUBMITTED PHOTO and the transmission has the biggest numbers andto be here at the are show. five recently- M340i. And while the old wake the dead will upset gains launch control. The of them all. Up to 1,000 Supra was always more of 2020 Ford Mustang “concerned citizens” and Track Edition also gets an lb-ft of torque, an available 2020 Toyota GR Supra a grand touring coupe the Shelby GT500 inspire children every- 12-inch touchscreen and a Hot off its autoshow new GR Supra has its aim The Shelby GT500 is where each GT500 goes. maximum towing capacity debut in Detroit, the locked on the Porsche Cay- back and badder than ever. As a perk of ownership, exposedwing and carbon front spoiler fibre hood, and of 35,100 lbs or a little over GR Supra might be the man and Jaguar F-Type. Pumping out over 700 each GT500 owner will get anspecial enormous BBS wheels. carbon Expect fibre world’s most divisive new Will aspiring tuners be horsepower from a super- a free session at the Ford to see it at the Lexus booth. car right now. With the able to make the GR Supra charged 5.2-litre V8 and Performance Racing School 18“bigger smart is cars.better” Giant mentality figures 1993-2002 Supra being a 10-second car? Will packing an all new Tremec to try and tame Ford’s 2020 Lincoln Aviator thatof the fit segment. perfectly The with base the one of the most iconic Dominic Toretto approve of 7-speed dual-clutch trans- wildest stallion. Expect it For decades, Lincoln was engine is now a Japanese cars of all time, it? Those questions are yet mission, the GT500 has the to be on display at the Ford seen as a bit of a joke. The 6.4-litre Hemi V8 and the re-launching the Supra is to be answered. Eighteen stand. Ram 2500 Power Wagon like naming a child Elvis – years after the old Supra gnarly. who weren’t yet notorious is still the most off-road was immortalized as the equipmentUltra-wide to Michelin be certifiably high 2020 Lexus RC F Track brandenough for to aspiring drive Cadillacs, mafioso capable heavy duty truck, some very big blue suede hero car in The Fast and performance tires and an Edition most Lincolns were merely with standard equipment they’reshoes. going to have to fill the Furious, the Supra optional high-downforce When the Lexus RC F re-branded Fords with including locking front While the old Supra nameplate is back. aerodynamics kit will do launched in 2015 it was fancy grills. and rear differentials and was an in-house effort by Expect to see it on the their best to keep this met with criticism from the It’s no wonder Lincoln’s a 12,000 lb electric winch. Toyota, the new GR Supra Toyota stand when the raging stallion glued to the automotive press. Many been working hard to turn Expect to see the 2020 shares many parts with Toronto autoshow rolls tarmac, while an exhaust reviewers complained that that image around recently. Ram Heavy Duty on the the new BMW Z4 and around. system loud enough to the RC F felt heavy and While the template for the Ram stand.

College prepares for Career Fair Three free, cheap things By BRIENAH CASSAR Staff Writer to do this weekend:

Niagara College turns 1. Niagara Winter Home career week into career and Lifestyle Show month in preparation of Ca- reer Fair in February. Date: Jan. 26 Student Services, Centre Time: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. for Student Engagement Location: Garden City Arena (St. Catharines) and Leadership, and Career Cost: They’re asking for two toonies and a tin ($4 Services are working and a non-perishable food item) together to host a variety of Description: This is an opportunity for you to events. begin looking for inspiration on spring projects and Their goal is to ensure do business with home decor and lifestyle experts students are as prepared at Niagara’s only winter home and lifestyle show. as possible for Niagara Col- lege’s upcoming Career Fair 2. After Party on Ice in February. Date: Jan. 26 Career Fair is held annu- Time: 8 p.m. – 11:59 p.m. ally at Niagara College and Location: Fort Gorge National Historical Site gives students the oppor- (Niagara-On-the-Lake) Cost: $5 ops, and to network with Description: In support of the Red Roof Retreat, employers.tunity to find jobs, co- the skating rink at Fort George will be having a The next career month party that includes live music, different culinary ex- events are as follows: Elevator Pitch on Jan. among more. A fun, all-ages event for a great cause. 24 in the SAC Boardroom periences, craft beer and wine and warm fire pits, (SA208). 3. Niagara Falls Sports Wall of During this event Student Services setting up for Career Month for students in need of jobs. Fame Induction Ceremony students will learn how PHOTO BY BRIENAH CASSAR to properly approach an Resume Clinic on Jan. 30 in the Applied Health is the Career Fair on Feb. Date: Jan. 27 employer and sell them- 25 in the SAC Boardroom Institute (AHI) foyer. 5 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Time: 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. selves. They run in half (SA208) from 10 a.m. to This event invites stu- the Learning Commons. Location: Gale Centre Memorial Room (Niagara hour segments from noon noon. dents to browse profes- Students are asked to Falls) to 3:30 p.m. This event allows sional donated clothing bring copies of their re- Cost: Free Get a Free Professional students to bring in their items and accessories to sumes, wear professional Description: In the Niagara Falls area? Head Headshot on Jan. 24 out- resumes and receive help them look their best attire, and be ready to meet on over to the Gale Centre to watch outstanding side the SAC Boardroom feedback from the Career for the Career Fair and job employers. athletes, teams and builders from the Niagara Falls from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Services staff. interviews. The event will For more information go area be inducted on their sports wall of fame. The picture will be sent Dress to Impress Profes- run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. to niagaracollege.ca/ca- to students electronically. sional Clothing Fair on Jan. Following these events reermonth NIAGARA NEWS • Jan. 25, 2019 Page 11 ENTERTAINMENT

SUBMITTED PHOTO It’s a coming of age story By RILEY RADOBENKO was the perfect solution for cal quality is up to par,” two regular participants on gether,” said Castellano. “We around the world. Staff Writer Castellano. It allowed him to said the BOC guitarist and the show are Andy Ascolese know each other’s strengths “I love the sillier stuff we combine his many passions keyboardist. “If we have to and Andy Graziano. Though and we try to play to that. do,” said Castellano. “I’d say Perfecting a cover of and forced his hand into be- do something over and over Ascolese is a multi-instru- Doing a show in this format our Never Gonna Let You Carry On Wayward Son, ing creative. Though the pro- until everyone is happy, mentalist, he’s typically really allows us to showcase Go video where we count doing an in-depth review cess of creating an episode is then that’s what we’ll do.” used as the drummer and that.” the modulations is a perfect prolonged, he wouldn’t want This is especially true a vocalist during the group “Our goal is to have fun encapsulation of what we and role playing as Spinal it any other way. when they have guest per- shows, whereas Graziano and make the best videos do.” ofTap Avengers is the type Infinity of content War “I was going through a formers on the show. Castel- rotates with Castellano be- we can.” “I also really enjoy our Richie Castellano wanted to period of my life where I lano acknowledged that he’s tween guitar and bass while It’s easy to spot their live streams,” he continued. produce when he created wasn’t doing anything cre- done other people’s shows singing background vocals. chemistry, friendship, “There’s something really the Band Geek Podcast. ative and making Band Geek where he wasn’t happy with Castellano notes they’ve enjoyment and talent dur- special about hanging out And as the show has content forced me to be the end result, so he’ll do been playing with each ing the show, and their with people around the creative,” said the 38-year whatever it takes to prevent other for a long time, which willingness to play any world and having them year, the main concept has old. “It’s a huge amount of that with Band Geek. is one of the reasons they song that’s any genre from shape the performance in progressedremained the into same: its fifth produc- work, and it’s incredibly “I want everyone to leave work so well together. any timeframe are a couple real time.” ing enjoyable and amusing time consuming, but the my studio feeling like they “We have been playing reasons Band Geek has As the show continues to content that combines a satisfaction I get from the just contributed to some- in bands since we were many dedicated followers, grow, Castellano notes that passion of music with guilty thing that is going to be 15,” said the Staton Island and their videos gain a lot the recurring cast is getting pleasures that other people worth the effort.” awesome,” said Castellano. resident. of exposure, with many of busier with their own gigs finishedWhen Bandproduct Geek is usuallybegan, it “We’ll go the extra mile if it Joining them are key- their covers getting well- and commitments. But that “It’s mostly centered on started out as an audio-only means the end result will boardist and vocalist Vin over 100,000 views. won’t stop him from con- maymusic,” find said geeky Castellano, or dorky. podcast on the RiotCast Innocente, and Castellano’s These include their covers tinuing to create content for who’s been a member of Network with Castellano Some of the guests that wife, vocalist and multi- of Hotel California (922K), the show regardless of who Blue Oyster Cult (BOC) and a few of his friends benefithave appeared from it.” on Band instrumentalist Ann Marie. Heaven and Hell (533K), is available. since 2004. “But it’s prob- discussing music and pop Geek have been BOC front “I’ve known Vinny since Valerie (116K), Close to the ably going to be a little silly culture. That was until Rob men Eric Bloom and Buck he was a kid. His sister took Edge (113K), How Deep musicians to do anything and we might be wearing Sprance, the founder of Dharma, Kansas keyboard- lessons at the (Castellano is Your Love (215K), More “Scheduling five or six Star Wars costumes while RiotCast, convinced him to ist Tom Brislin, Utopia bass family-owned music) store, Than Feeling (244K) and “Whether it’s a big group we’re doing it.” add musical performances player Kasim Sulton, Trans- and he would accompany Don’t Stop Me Now (234K), isperformance, a difficult task,” a duo he video said. “The podcast name, Band to his shows. Siberian Orchestra guitarist her,” recalled Castellano among many others. with Andy and me, or a solo Geek, has morphed into “That really helped set us Angus Clark and former during a recent livestream. When asked if he’s had stream, I think the key is to meaning all kinds of things,” apart from other podcasts,” Guns N’ Roses guitarist “He knew like 1,000 chords a favourite moment on keep creating things that I he continued. “I just found it said Castellano. Bumblefoot, among many and I’m standing there like the show, it was tough for to be an excellent descriptor And as the years have more. ‘who is this kid that keeps Castellano to single one “I’m just happy when I’m for the kind of content I like progressed, Castellano One of the reasons the showing up and knowing all thing out, but their recent findmaking fun stuff.”or interesting.” to create.” shifted his focus to You- show draws in highly suc- these songs?’” rendition of the Yes classic, All episodes are available Coming from a family Tube, and Band Geek has cessful musical guests is be- “Ann Marie is so incred- Close to the Edge, is high up as an audio-podcast on the with a musical background, since become a full-blown cause of the resident house ibly talented,” he said. “Her on his list. RiotCast Network’s website. the show originated after show with livestreams, in- band that is willing to play ears are so on point that she “I’m very proud of our Many musical performances Castellano lost his creative terviews, automated lights, anything. Band Geek is not a Close to the Edge cover,” from the earlier episodes touch. Though he’s written multiple cameras and a solo project, and Castellano Rounding out the lineup he said. “It was something are on the Band Geek Pod- and recorded his own al- multitrack home studio. realizes how fortunate he is fitsis Castellano’s right in with co-host, us.” we dreamed about doing in cast YouTube channel. The bums throughout his career, It allows Castellano to to have longtime, talented vocalist and percussion- high school.” current full-length videos of the steady touring schedule produce high-quality videos friends who are happy to ist Jarrett Pressman, and Two of the other things the entire show starting at with BOC and other com- that are visually appealing contribute to the show Ascolese’s wife, Brandi, who he really enjoys is the sillier episode 100 are on Castel- mitments caused him to with the musical aspect be- week after week. usually directs the episodes content they produce, along lano’s personal channel, stop creating his own musi- ing the main priority. “I’m incredibly lucky,” by overseeing the lights and with doing livestreams Richie Castellano, where he cal content. “We do our very best he said. cameras. where they get to hang out also uploads gear videos, The idea of Band Geek to make sure the musi- On a recurring basis, “We all work very well to- with fans of the show from tutorials and other things. Page 12 NIAGARA NEWS • Jan. 25, 2019 ENTERTAINMENT The play where things go wrong

The original London and Broadway cast of The Play That Goes Wrong. Left to Right: Dave Hearn, Henry Lewis, Greg Tannahill and Charlie Russell. SUBMITTED PHOTO cases of bodily harm, each characters’ nuances ous applause from both Created by Britian’s - the audience and Max SARAH AngelaMischief Grovey. Theatre, an Perhaps the play’s best ofduction’s the audience. highlights is its himself, who has seemed HOOKEY improv comedy troupe flubbedOne may lines wonder and even if an andfeature shortcomings. is Ned Noyes, the abilityAnother to play one to of its the audi pro- to throw away any of the Columnist founded by members onstagewatching fire. mishap after comedic genius behind nervousness he festered of The Play That Goes mishap would grow the truly hilarious and Toronto location, lead ac- Wrong’s original West End old over time but that lovable character of Max, ence. Acknowledging its While the scene initially and Broadway cast Henry couldn’t be farther from who takes on the roles of society Chris Bean, played earlier.gained chuckles, Trevor’s When audience mem- Shields, Henry Lewis and - - bytor the of the delightful fictional Evan drama reluctance to take part bers enter the Ed Mirvish Jonathan Sayer, the show ing just when disaster will thur the gardener in the in the kiss, including the Theatre to see Broad- - strtheike, truth. leaving There’s you nothor tell- Cecil Haversham and Ar out the audience for their “nobody wants to see way’s The Play That Goes tional Cornley Polytechnic oughly unprepared, and Alexanderlaughter during Smith, what calls he that!” he utters, proves to Wrong, they are greeted revolvesDrama Society around and the also fic plaMaxy-within-a-play. soon becomes anFrom calls a serious play, claim- be more uncomfortable with music playing British theatre troupe The timing is impeccable, hisaudience very first favourite, introduction, going ing “they wouldn’t do this than funny, and slightly throughout the area that with a history of failed delighittinghted, every when cue it seem does.- above and beyond to earn at Stratford,” and “it’s no can only be described as productions, traumatizing ingly effortlessly and the wonder Hamilton hasn’t This leaves one wonder- the soundtrack to a black experiences and budget cast masters the art of clapping only works to homophobicing how such in a line,nature. and and white murder mys- restraints that turn a being funny even with- laughsfurther and his enthusiasm,cheers. The those remarks are met by especially in the manner production of James and seeing him go as far as come here yet.” Of course, in which it is said, (loudly gives off a vibe that’s the Giant Peach into the is especially the case for goading his fellow actors The play-within-a-play tery film. The eerie track quickly thought up James, out saying a word. This in their missteps and mis- raucousis not without laughter. its short- was even approved in the Paired with a two-tier set Where’s Your Peach? a quite lively corpse in the pronunciations of words of a 1920s-esque sitting and with open disgust) practically low budget. This time, after a size- Yaegelshow who T. Welch suffers who more plays such as cyanide, which changing the character of Still, when the set is room and study, one that able inheritance from than his fair share of inju- soon becomes ‘ky-a- Maxcomings from however. other Mischief By literally falling apart in looks as cheap as it does ries while maintaining his first place. one of their members, niddy’ thanks to the inept productions, an ill-fated front of you, perhaps it is rickety, the tone for the they attempt to stage an composure, and Peyton actor Dennis, brought to easy to overlook such a show is quickly set before elaborate 1920s murder Crim as Robert whose ab- life by Scott Cote, who Instead of Max crush- mystery, The Murder at solute disbelief and shock struggles to remember ing hard on his fellow joke is born. This is a show that de- This is not your average Haversham Manor, only at each falling set piece his lines and how to pro- performer Sandra, (Jamie to realize that Murphy’s sends audience members remark.serves your utmost praise it even began. and respect, as it has The actors, in charac- law has once again come Simultaneously gaining Peter Pan Goes Wrong, he wowed Broadway audi- ter, wander around the nouncelaughs is them. Trevor, the re- Annseems Romero), afraid of as portray he did- in play by far. ences for over two years audience searching in intoeven fits more of giggles.enjoyable luctant lighting and sound ing any intimacy towards vain for the production’s toThe strike. actors What aren’t can able go to if Allyou of have this seen is perhaps other operator complete with and now takes its time- wrong,even make will it go 10 wrong. minutes Mischief productions such a Texan drawl and a love His tune is changed less farce on the road, self-destructs before your into their production as BBC’s Peter Pan Goes of Duran Duran, played oncehis female Trevor co-stars. takes over proving that two wrongs missing dog. A hammer before things start to Wrong and A Christmas by Bandstand’s Sandra’s role when she is, Carol Goes Wrong. The Ellis, who fails at execut- once again, incapacitated The Play That Goes verysoon eyes.duct taped A mantelpiece back to- they soon graduate from - ing his cues time Brandon and time J. along with her initially doWrong make will a right. be playing at breaksgether bybefore the stageAct 1 frightand is gomissed awry. lighting Small atcues first, and ters seen here remain - the Ed Mirvish Theatre Duran Duran’s greatest castthe same of fictional in the characother trail mix, crushes beer - hits playing at inappropri- two, adding to even more agcansain. and He scrolls munches through on reluctantis not met understudy with fear and An a mation on tickets, visit prEscapeone fictional to Margaretville’s stage ate times to numerous laughs once you learn social media right in view nie.refusal, Now but an with onstage thunder kiss- until Feb. 10. For infor manager Annie, played by mirvish.com. NIAGARA NEWS • Jan. 25, 2019 Page 13 SPORTS Why do we boo Gardiner? The ironic thing is that Gardiner is having a pretty good year statistically. At RILEY the time of writing, he’s RADOBENKO recorded 24 points in 45 Columnist games, while being third on the team with a plus- 18. The Leafs also score What I love about sports 63.5 per cent of the time is how dedicated the fans when he’s on the ice during are. And when the fans spend their hard-earned most part, he’s been a reli- money on ridiculously high five-on-fiveable piece of play. the teamFor the this tickets, merchandise and season. beer prices, they have the Although he lacks hockey right to cheer, yell, boo and IQ, Gardiner has all the talent in the world. He’s a they want. swift skater with an effort- throwHowever, waffles I strongly at whoever dis- less stride that can quarter- agree with the people who back a power play. booed Toronto Maple Leafs All that stuff means noth- defenseman Jake Gardiner. ing though. I highly doubt Every professional athlete most fans know about those makes mistakes. It’s part of statistics, and if they do the game. they don’t care about them, Unfortunately for Gar- especially in the heat of the diner, his are very memo- moment. rable because they either All they think about is the shouldn’t have happened years of anger and frustra- to begin with, or they tion that has mounted watch- happened at the worst ing Gardiner play. All they possible times. think about is game 7 of both The worst part is when the 2013 and 2018 play- he makes a mistake, he offs when Gardiner’s poor looks lifeless like a deer decision-making led to their in headlights, instead of demise. All they think about rebounding or playing with is wanting this guy decapi- tated and run out of town. During a recent game It’s a classic tale of the extraagainst fire. Colorado, he had a bad outweighing the good. pathetic backcheck caus- It’s frustrating no doubt ing a goal for Colorado, when he makes those which ultimately led to mistakes, but booing him? Gardiner being benched for He doesn’t deserve that. the last six minutes of the It’ll just make him continue Although Jake Gardiner has made his fair share of mistakes, Leafs fans should not be booing him. second period. Every time playing poorly and ruin his PHOTO BY VICTORIA NICOLAOU he touched the puck in the third period, it was a rain of fan, that’d be the last thing I means Gardiner, who’s an summer though, and some His teammates love the He’s a good player that has boos from the Leafs faithful. confidence,want considering and as he’ll a Leafs be a upcoming free agent, won’t team will give him the character he brings to the been nothing but loyal to That’s a little extreme in crucial part of their playoff be back with the team next money he deserves and locker room, and he always the franchise. Instead of my humble opinion, espe- run this year. year unless he’s going to more. Gardiner has been on owns up to his mistakes. booing him, the fans should cially considering the entire The Leafs are going to be take an extreme pay cut. horrendous Leafs’ teams This is most likely going show a little more respect team was horrendous that in salary cap trouble the He’ll have eight to 12 from 2011-2016, and never to be the last run with Gar- toward him before he game. next couple years, which teams after him in the complained once about it. diner in a Leafs’ uniform. leaves town. NHL All-Star games: love them or hate them know he’d be there. don’t get to showcase their Metropolitan. The league On top of that, why does skills in this format as well. RILEY Pacific,picks the Central, nine best Atlantic players and every team need a repre- That’s because 3-on-3 RADOBENKO from each division to form sentative? Now I can ac- is all about the offence. Columnist these teams, with the fans knowledge that most teams And it’s pretty clear that’s voting on the captain and have at least one deserving what the NHL wants. The one other player. player to be selected to the most recognizable names Teams will then faceoff all-star games, but why not in the league are superstar There are two types against each other in a one- just pick the 25 best from forwards that put up a lot of of people in this world. each conference, whether points. So from a marketing Someone who loves all-star The two teams that win a team has a representa- perspective, this format is games, and others who these games will then face tive or not? That’s a way to fantastic for the league. absolutely hate them. Per- game knockout semi-final. guarantee the majority of sonally, I like them. I think to determine who wins the the deserving players get in. of this is by going back to it’s a great marketing tool tournament. It’s fair to say that this the traditional game. Prior for leagues, and it brings each other in the final game An easy way to fix all There are three (plus format keeps the game to this format, the league a lot of exposure to their about 15 other) glaring competitive. In prior rendi- would have two captains respective sport. It’s also problems with this format. tions of the event, the game and they would select their a fun stretch of events for - would end in ridiculously teams live as part of a fan- the fans, and it’s a way to lutely no structure to these high scores because nobody tasy draft. That was fun for honour the best players in games. How can someone wanted to play defense and the players and fans. the league. First of all, there is abso justify calling it an all-star risk an injury two months In addition to that, you With that being said, game when it’s a tourna- before the post-season saw the 45 players who I cannot stand how the ment? It really just looks begins, which is completely were most deserving as National Hockey League like a bunch of friends play- valid. part of that event, and a (NHL) handles their all-star ing pickup hockey on the high of 53 by the end of the But this format doesn’t game with actual structure. game, if you can even call makes it almost impossible nearest pond. year. He’s not in the event resolve the discrimination It wasn’t just about offence, it that. Instead of doing a to select all the deserving Then there is the fact though. against goaltenders. Instead it had elements of every- traditional game like every players to the game. that this idea of having Could this be because of of being hung out to dry thing. It really showcased other sport in the world, the four teams of 10 reduces the logistics and constraints all game like they were in the NHL. In my opinion, this NHL decides to do a 3-on-3 Kreider has had a fantastic the amount of players who of how the league is sending the traditional game, they format does not, and I hope tournament format. seasonFor example, thus far Chrisfor the New could be selected to partici- players to the game? Poten- now have to work 10 times the league can come to that Essentially, there are four York Rangers. He’s recorded pate in the game. With eight tially. If they did a tradi- harder. It’s also a slap in the realization in the future and teams that represent the 37 points and could very teams in each division, it’s tional game, you damn-well face to the defensemen who change it. four divisions in the NHL – well surpass his career- Page 14 NIAGARA NEWS • Jan. 25, 2019 SPORTS Romo big winner, the UFC big loser By VICTORIA NICOLAOU Columnist

Winner of the week: Tony Romo After two great NFL games, both ending in overtime, the Twitter world wasn’t talking about the Los Angeles Rams or New England Patriots. The real winner of conference cham- pionship Sunday was Tony Romo. Romo, the former Dallas Cowboys quarterback, has been calling CBS games for the last two years. Fans, players and media have said nothing but good things about Romo as he transi- tioned into the booth. He brings joy, in addition to an extensive amount of knowl- edge, to each NFL game. But his calls on Sunday night were remarkable. Time after time Romo told the audience – in an engag- ing, endearing way – exactly what was coming from the Patriots. He knew precisely Clockwise from top: Sportscaster LA Rams quarterback Jared Goff and sportscaster Chris Myers, tennis player Simona Halep, UFC fighter and what the offense was looking disgraced football player Greg Hardy. SUBMITTED PHOTOS to do as Brady stepped to the White defended Hardy say- after his Los Angeles Rams resign following former MSU some of the best matches are go head-to-head. Especially line, and each time Romo’s ing, “He made a really big beat the New Orleans Saints president Lou Anna Simon – played at 3 a.m. in Canada (I in tennis, when it is just two prediction was spot-on. rookie mistake.” in the NFC Championship did not seem to understand may or may not be watch- athletes on the court – no It left everybody wonder- And then White promised game. As the interview why the public was calling ing them live). Sports fans coaches, no timeouts, no ing – if Romo can see every- Hardy another shot. ended, a dazed Goff thanked for his removal. In his resig- are missing some of the best breaks, no substitutions. thing that is coming, how FOX’s Chris Myers and nation letter, Engler blamed athletes in the world go toe- You just hope all the work could the Kansas City Chiefs Saturday night, Hardy’s gave him a hug. It was a the call for his removal on you put in when no one not see the same thing? professionalGoing into therecord fight was 3-0. funny and genuine moment. the board’s Democratic of the year and the battle was looking will pay off. It Romo could tell the Chiefs He was more famous for Something we don’t always members and claiming he to-toebetween in theSimona first HalepGrand andSlam doesn’t always, at least on defense was tiring at the end the alleged assault then he get to see in sports. left MSU a “dramatically bet- Serena Williams was worth paper. In this case, Halep of the Patriots opening over- was for anything he did in 2) Alexander Zverev ter, stronger institution than staying up for. goes home with the loss but time drive. How did Andy the ring. He did not earn his Watching Zverev smash it was a year ago.” Halep, coming back from the solace in knowing she Reid not see it as well? Take spot on the UFC card. his racquet to pieces after Worse, this wasn’t even a back injury that kept her gave everything she had. a time-out. Give your de- out most of the fall season, Hopefully this is just the fense a minute to re-group. is not the main problem. Milos Raonic at the Austra- and Williams, making her beginning of what tennis Those saved time-outs aren’t TheBut UFC Hardy’s could fight have record put losinglian Open the wasfirst hilarious.two sets to It Engler’sforced to first apologize controversy. for an way back after having a fans will see this season going to do the Chiefs any Hardy on any of its 43 cards wasn’t as unique as the infa- emailLast in June, which Engler he wondered was baby girl, played a match from Halep and Williams. good this off-season. in 2019 if they wanted, but mous Marcos Baghdatis clip whether one of the victims worthy of the hype: We would be lucky to see But back to Romo. Bryce instead they chose to give (who broke a total of four was getting money from her The number 1 player in more matches between the Harper said it best in my him a spot on the same card racquets, including two still attorney to manipulate the the world vs. the number 1 two as the tennis season Tweet of the week: as Rachael Ostovich. in plastic wrap), but it was other women in the Nassar player all time. Ostovich, who lost to Paige close. The racquet looked case. The board voted to in the middle of the night. Tony Romo to see where Van Zant by second-round like a golf club by the time keep Engler, despite calls 1-6, 20-minute drubbing), begins. Just preferably not I’mConfirmed: going to play Just next called year. submission Saturday night, Zverev was done smacking for his removal. They didn’t HalepAfter settled a rocky in. first She set joked (a Dumbest comment #YoureaWizardTony - it on the court eight times. do the right thing then, but after the match the she felt of the week: Maybe Romo really is a ance since suffering injuries Zverev can use his new golf this time the board couldn’t like she was hit by a train in LeBron James wizard. wasafter making an alleged her domesticfirst appear club on the golf course with ignore the public’s opinion. the beginning – everything On ESPN’s “More than violence attack. Ostovich’s his extra free time. I guess it’s better late than was going too fast. But husband has pleaded not Another disappointing never. But one has to won- her much-improved serve claimed that beating the guilty to attempted murder. Grand Slam showing for the der how many more times started clicking, giving her anWarriors athlete” in LeBron the 2016 James NBA It’s clear the UFC doesn’t 21-year old. At least Zverev MSU is going to embarrass a chance to play her own Finals made him the great- will always have the GIF. itself by failing to do the game - chasing every ball, est player of all time. decent and right thing. First of all, I’ve always careabout about what their Ostovich fighters. has Foe of the week: defense to offense, and believed that if you’re Theybeen through.definitely Otherwise don’t care John Engler and Michigan Favourite person/moment findingbeing aggressive the balance with from her great, you don’t need to tell Loser of the week: Hardy wouldn’t have been State University of the week: down-the-line backhand anyone. I’ve never heard The UFC got what it de- anywhere near Barclay’s Michigan State University Simona Halep (and apparently forehand). Roger Federer or Tom Centre Saturday night. interim president (or now (and Serena Williams) Brady walking around talk- Hardy didn’t deserve a inches Halep doesn’t have ing about how they are the served.with ESPN The featured first UFC former card in second chance in the NFL, made news when he told match-up at the Australian theAt easy only power five-foot, of most five- “greatest.” aNFL new player five-year Greg partnership Hardy. Fit- and he doesn’t deserve a ex-president)the Detroit News John editorial Engler It was a quarterfinal players on the WTA tour, NBA Hall of Famer Isiah second chance with the board that some of the vic- but she doesn’t shy away Thomas said it perfectly on UFC. But that’s not my call. tims of abuse at the hands from it. She uses her timing, NBA TV, “There’s a certain tinglyHardy Hardy’s was convicted fight ended of Putting Hardy on the same of former Michigan State skill and never-give-up at- thing about greatest that withassault a disqualification. in 2014, but the card as an abuse survivor and USA gymnastics doctor titude to get the most out of demands you have humility charges were dropped on tells me everything I need to Larry Nassar were enjoying her game that she can. And with greatness.” appeal when the female know about Dana White and “the spotlight.” that ability got her to the I don’t think that’s how accuser failed to appear in Nassar pled guilty to top of the tennis world. court. The Dallas Cowboys seven counts of criminal Halep and Williams Nobody who tattoos the signed him to a one-year sexual conduct and was brought the best out of each LeBronwords “CHOSEN1” James’ mind and works. contract, but Hardy has not Hardy’sthe UFC. UFC A disqualification debut. sentenced to 40-175 years other. Each player made the “King” on their body is think- been on an NFL roster since. seems like a fitting end to in prison after over 150 other step-up their level ing much about humility. The former defensive- Friend of the week: women and girls said in point-after-point. Halep had And besides that, if I re- I had to pick two because court that Nassar had sexu- chances in the third set but call correctly, wasn’t it Kyrie they were both equally ally abused them. she wasn’t able to capitalize. Irving that hit the game- endhit Allen was disqualifiedCrowder with from an funny: one was endearing MSU has not someone Williams took her chance winning three in Game 7 of hisillegal first knee UFC to fight the whenhead. he and one was a meltdown. managed to make a mess out when she got it, late in the the NBA Finals? Hardy said that the But I enjoyed both. of the entire situation, ignor- third set, and that was the Can you call yourself the hit was not on purpose. 1) Jared Goff ing years and years of com- difference. GOAT for beating the War- Whether anyone believes The funniest moment of plaints by female athletes. Open that should have been a But it was a reminder riors when you weren’t the him is a different question. Engler – now the second - of how good tennis can be one to hit the winning shot? But UFC president Dana Goff’s post-game interview president in the last year to lia is 17 hours ahead because when the best in the world Maybe we should ask Kyrie. the week was during Jared final. It’s a shame that Austra