http://www.newsatniagara.com Jan. 20, 2006 Volume 36, Issue 7
Basketball action. See page 20
The Best Way To Connect With Niagara We vote Monday. See page 11 Glendale gets new Checkmate student president By ROBIN HEALEY ther on that matter until the con- removal. Staff Writer fidentiality of the situation is SAC decided to operate in Elsie Vrugteveen is the new removed. It is unfortunate that camera because Allan’s removal Niagara College Student the council [SAC] does not was a “human resource issue,” Administrative Council (SAC) represent the wishes of the stu- says Eybel, 19, in a telephone president for Glendale campus dents anymore. Only one mem- interview. He is a second-year following the removal of Jon ber of the council at Glendale Tourism Marketing and Opera- Allan at a secret in camera ses- has even been voted in now. tions (Co-op) student, from sion during the Dec. 8 SAC “Nevertheless, because I still Grimsby. Board of Directors meeting. believe in the cause of further- “I can’t see it [the reason for The board, which is com- ing students’ rights, I will per- Allan’s removal] ever being posed of both the Niagara-on- sonally assist Elsie whenever made public.” the-Lake Glendale campus and necessary.” When asked if he thinks that Welland campus branches of The portion of the Dec. 8 as a publicly elected official he SAC, originally designated Eric meeting in which Allan was has a duty to be more forthcom- Muller, SAC executive vice- removed was held in camera ing, Eybel responded, “What I president for Glendale campus, (Latin for “in chamber”), which am saying is just what the board as Allan’s replacement. means that what was discussed has authorized me to say.” Muller declined the position will be kept secret unless the This is not the first incidence of and asked that SAC Glendale SAC Board of Directors decides an in camera removal of a SAC hold an election to find a new otherwise. The minutes of the member. On March 6, 1995, SAC president. He says that he want- meeting show that Allan chaired voted in camera to remove Dawn ed “a democratic solution” to the meeting and that the deci- Swayze, who was vice-president the situation. sion to go in camera and of internal affairs. The reason for However, the other members remove him came at the meet- her removal was never made of SAC Glendale disagreed. ing’s end. public. SAC Glendale voted Vru- “I didn’t know about what Muller, 23, from St. gteveen in as president, on Dec. was discussed in camera until Catharines, says he declined the 12, making her the third Glendale we went in camera,” says presidency because he was SAC president in just five days. Muller by phone. acclaimed to his position of “My removal was inappropri- SAC chose Mike Eybel, SAC executive vice-president. The ate,” says Allan in an e-mail. He Glendale director of communi- second-year Business Adminis- is a 24-year-old Business cations and media, to speak on tration – Accounting (Academ- Administration – Marketing its behalf, but he says the ic) student says SAC Glendale (Co-op) student from St. restrictions of the in camera ses- decided against an election Catharines. sion prevent him from giving because it didn’t want to wait “I cannot comment any fur- any information about Allan’s Continued on page 2
Niagara College students Cam Staffen, left, and Nick Chantzianto- niou consider their next moves during a Nov. 28 game of chess at the Networking proves successful Student Administrative Council (SAC) office at the Glendale campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake. The SAC chessboard is open to all students. By NATASHA MENEZES tre (BDC). A raffle draw was held toward the end This game ended in stalemate. Staff Writer of the evening. Photo by Robin Healey Personal and professional success through net- Robert Greene, professor in the Business and working proved the value of the ACE Niagara’s Entrepreneurship Division, thanked the sponsors Networking for Success event on Nov. 29 in the for the event and Niagara College’s Campus Store. Corporate Training Centre at the Glendale cam- The prizes included gift certificates, wine bottles, pus of Niagara College. gift baskets, T-shirts and a USB jump drive. Over 100 students, faculty and alumni from the This event marked the second time ACE Nia- business, horticulture and tourism programs par- gara has partnered with the Canadian Red Cross ticipated. They were encouraged to build their to successfully raise funds for those in need. Last personal networking skills. In addition, ACE Nia- year, it worked with the Niagara Peninsula Chil- gara raised and donated $500 to the Canadian dren’s Centre as its way of giving back to the Red Cross to assist the victims of Hurricane Kat- community. rina and the earthquakes in India and Pakistan. “We’d like to pick a sponsor and help them out. During the evening, participants enjoyed a fun You can only donate so much for an event like On Jan. 23, all Canadians 18 years of age and older should quiz. Fifteen questions were asked of their peers this, and we’d like to see a big donation given exercise their right and vote. ranging from hobbies to companies that they over the course of our year,” said 21-year-old for- Read our editorial on Page 6 and a column about trusting work for. mer ACE Niagara President Anthony McEachern. “Hopefully, it’ll put a spin on networking and Nancy Twerdohlib, a community service politicians on Page 8. Our local election news be useful to us all,” said Larry Bitner, business co-ordinator at the Canadian Red Cross based in coverage is on Pages 10, 11, 12 and 13. counsellor from the Business Development Cen- Continued on page 2 Page 2, news@niagara, Jan. 20, 2006
U-pass possible Continued from page 1 eral election, assisting Niagara College with until March to have a president. recruitment tours, and holding the NC’s FRXQWV Muller was the only SAC Glendale mem- annual fashion show from April 12 to April ber at the Dec. 12 meeting to vote against the 13. She will also introduce a referendum that appointment of Vrugteveen as president. would allow students to adopt or reject a uni- Vrugteveen, 19, is a Business Administra- versal bus pass. tion – Accounting (Co-op) student from “Feel free to drop by the SAC office,” says Beamsville, Ont. She says the leadership Vrugteveen, who says she looks forward to courses she took during the fall and her SAC meeting the students she now represents. experience as a student ambassador in 2004 SAC Glendale held a meeting on Jan. 16 and a student representative 2005 have pre- and chose Abbi Manderla, Gregory Arnold, pared her for her new position. and Kate Rice as new student representa- “We’ll take things one step at a time,” says tives. They fill the vacancies left by Vrugteveen. She plans to continue the main Vrugteveen and two other student represen- items of Allan’s agenda, such as helping tatives, Jamie Wildman and Graeme Clark, Muller create student awareness for the fed- who resigned. ‘Ongoing’ need for relief "EGINNING *ANUARY STUDENTS WILL HAVE THE Continued from page 1 skills, to help you get the right job. It all CHANCE TO COMPLETE THE /NTARIO #OLLEGE Thorold, said, “The need will be ongoing for adds up.” a very long time in both areas. The earth- ACE Niagara has also partnered with local 3TUDENT 3ATISFACTION 3URVEY n A SURVEY quake relief probably has the greater need and international entrepreneurs and the Nia- because it’s in one of the poorer areas of the gara College BDC to work on a project THAT THE /NTARIO GOVERNMENT ASKS EACH COLLEGE TO world ... We’re working up a really good called Fair Trade Niagara (FTN). A variety partnership with Niagara College; it’s some- of beaded crafts from South Africa were dis- thing that I’m really happy about.” played at the event to promote awareness of CONDUCT Students from the International Business fair trade issues. The crafts were handmade Management (Graduate Certificate) and by a co-operative of women known as King Human Resources Management (Graduate Kei Crafters from the Eastern Cape of South Certificate) programs contributed to the Africa. ACE Niagara, through the Fair Trade 4HE SURVEY RESULTS ARE IMPORTANT event by preparing a diverse selection of project, plans to import the crafts from South international dishes and “went out into the Africa as well as Argentina and distribute 4HEY SHOW HOW .IAGARA #OLLEGE COMPARES TO community and asked certain places to spon- them through the Ten Thousand Villages sor us,” said 20-year-old Michael O’Neil, store in Niagara-on-the-Lake. president of ACE Niagara. The purchase of a “It all started with the International depart- THE OTHER COLLEGES WHEN IT COMES TO STUDENT $5 ticket allowed people to sample various ment at the Welland campus of Niagara Col- cuisines along with two glasses of wine lege,” said O’Neil. “They’re the ones who SATISFACTION n WITH YOUR PROGRAM OUR FACILITIES AND donated by Niagara-based wineries Peller made the contact in Argentina and South Estates Winery and Andrés Wines. Africa.” SERVICES AND THE COLLEGE AS A WHOLE 'OVERNMENT The evening progressed with business “We’re going to use these products as cor- cards being exchanged and contacts being porate Christmas gifts mainly for ACE Cana- made with various people in different depart- da so that they can see the Fair Trade project SEES THE RESULTS THE MEDIA REPORT THEM AND ments. A number of representatives from co- that we’re working on,” said 21-year-old op programs attended this networking event. ACE Niagara Vice-President Robert Nagy. PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS USE THEM TO HELP CHOOSE A According to Neal Vincent, of a business ACE Niagara will be organizing another administration program, developing contacts event in January 2006 during the Internation- COLLEGE is an advantage for the students. al Development Week when Ten Thousand “At least you get your foot in the door Villages will be setting up to sell Fair Trade so that when you go for an interview, they goods at the college to raise awareness. know you on a personal level rather than To learn more or to get involved with Fair as just another number,” he said. “There Trade Niagara, contact O’Neil or Nagy at )N WE RANKED OVERALL IN are a lot of opportunities within ACE to [email protected] or Kyla Pennie at 905- meet the right people, to learn the right 735-2211 ext. 7805. STUDENT SATISFACTION n A TRIBUTE TO YOUR PROFESSORS AND STAFF WHO WORK HARD TO MAKE YOUR Students wanted longer break EXPERIENCE HERE A VALUABLE AND ENRICHING ONE By MELISSA TOPP “[I] don’t want to be getting into the Staff Writer workload.” The holiday break may have been three Miranda Paolella, 24, of Thorold, Ont., weeks long, but some students wished for a also in the Dental Hygiene program, says she 4HE IN CLASS SURVEY WILL BE ADMINISTERED BETWEEN longer vacation. flew to New York City with one of her Michael Baxter, 20, in the Broadcasting – friends during the break and did a lot of *ANUARY AND &EBRUARY 0LEASE PLAN TO Radio, Television and Film program, says he shopping while she was there. Paolella says “basically did nothing” over the winter she worked every day she was home but she PARTICIPATE 4HANK YOU break. Baxter says the holiday was a much also had time to read a “good book” called A needed and relaxing break. Million Little Pieces. She says she is “over- The Sunderland, Ont., native says he’s “con- whelmed” about this semester, “but I’m up flicted” about being back at school, saying he for a challenge.” wants to be back but also wants to be on holi- Ivan Bjel, 30, of Niagara Falls, Ont., says day longer. He is in his last year and adds he the break was a time for him to relax, have wants to “get semester done and over with.” dinner with family and do some shopping. 3TUDENT 3ATISFACTION 3URVEY A student in the Dental Hygiene program, Bjel says he hung out with his younger Mindy Beaton, 19, Hamilton, Ont., she says nephews and spent a lot of time with them. *ANUARY n &EBRUARY she worked, went to a Dallas Green con- The Photonics Engineering Technician cert, saw her friends and “ignored” her program student says he also worked “quite schoolwork. a bit.” Bjel says he could use another week She says it’s “overwhelming” what she has off as he is “not as rested as I could have 7ELCOME TO SUCCESS to be doing now that she’s back this semester hoped for,” but he says he’s also excited but it feels good to see her friends again. about new courses to take this semester. news@niagara, Jan. 20, 2006, Page 3 Brigitte Chiki surprised by SAC honour Connection College By STEVE FRANCIS the college have built over time. are a “really productive team. I’m a Staff Writer “SAC is infused in the college as a smaller part of it.” On the surface, Brigitte Chiki, direc- result of building the relationship over Chiki called the Wall of Fame a tor of student services at Niagara time,” says Chicki, adding the college “very nice initiative” and said she was College, is all business. and SAC have always focused on surprised and honoured to be part of From her office, just a few steps improving student life, very rarely such a “nice mix of individuals.” from that of Alan Davis’s, vice- straying from that goal. “The synergy Started in 1995, the Wall of Fame president academic, at the Welland [between SAC and the college] makes included 11 members before Chiki. campus, Chiki goes about her business it better.” Past honourees include people from all in what appears to be a tidy fashion. Chiki’s relationship with SAC walks of Niagara College life. After finishing a telephone call, started in 1983 when she was a Chiki invites me into her office, which full-time counsellor with the college. is purely a functional place except for She speaks with awe and pride as she Wall of Fame one item on the desk. describes the way SAC has grown The item is a plaque Niagara’s from a four- or five-person executive Inductees Student Administrative Council (SAC) Photo by Amanda Reynolds with a budget of $200 to the large BRIGITTE CHIKI presented to her during a board of business entity it is today, operating at 2005 Brigitte Chiki directors meeting Dec. 8, 2005. It is She recalls the nomination as a both campuses, with student centres 2003 Greg Nelson Darling black and polished, and something surprise, which Cindy Blanchard, SAC and much larger budgets. Dave “RAPS” Rapelje Chiki explains quite clearly that she is general manager, says was council’s The college’s Glendale campus is in Ray Sarkis proud of. intention. Niagara-on-the-Lake. 2001 Lou DiMattio “I feel very honoured to be Blanchard explained the presenta- Chiki gives the credit for SAC’s 2000 Cindy Blanchard recognized.” tion normally happens at a SAC dinner, success to the professional staff: 1999 Bette Ferguson The plaque commemorates Chiki’s but Chiki would have been unable to Blanchard, Karen Marasco, Welland 1998 Mike Bainbridge inclusion as the 12th member of SAC’s attend. “We gave it to her at the [board office administrator, Glen Murray, 1997 Arjay Chugh Wall of Fame. of directors] meeting to keep the Glendale office administrator, and their 1996 D.J. Kenny “The Shim “It’s extra special because it comes element of surprise,” said Blanchard. staffs at the student centres. Troll” Dickert from the students, extra special,” Both Blanchard and Chiki spoke “They are key to making the SAC Eugene Maltais says Chiki. proudly of the relationship SAC and office work every year.” She says they 1995 Fred Bassi New chair for UW campaign Martin campaigns By JEN GIBBONS out, and the committee worked as she has resigned from her post. Staff Writer great together,” said Carolyn She had been the committee’s As the 2005 United Way Ambrose, campaign committee chair the past four years. College Campaign came to a volunteer. Chandler has decided to stay in St. Catharines close, so ended the tenure of the The Niagara College United on the committee as a helper to . committee’s chair. Way Committee Report’s wrap- the new co-chair/chair. The By ELISABETH BAILEY The campaign fell short of the up meeting identified some rea- positions for the new committee Staff Writer goal to get 100 per cent sons for falling short of the pro- have yet to be decided. Sharing in unity was the theme Prime Minister participation and to surpass the posed goal. First is donor The committee has recom- Paul Martin struck at Liberal MP Walt Lastewka’s 2004 campaign, which raised fatigue. With an increasing num- mended the addition of an headquarters in St. Catharines on Friday, Jan. 13, in $25,288. ber of natural disasters and the administrative person to sit on a speech to supporters and media. Nevertheless, the campaign rise of gas prices, donors are the committee as a co-chair to “That notion of working together, pulling together, What’s managed to raise $23,510.85. giving money to a large number help to raise more funds. sharing has been part of the ethic of government happening “I am proud of the total,” said of organizations. Also people “We need more administrative since the beginning of time. I believe this election Betty Ann Chandler, chair of the are unaware of and not support in the campaign,” said campaign is a very important election campaign at the United Way College accessing the United Way Chandler. because for the first time that notion of the role of college Campaign, with a smile. “The College Campaign’s new “Having administration on the government and that notion of the way we share campaign went well, and our website. Another factor was the committee would create really together is being called into question.” committee worked very hard committee had only four people, good participation from as many Martin said he wanted to talk about what he and very well together.” and they had to work extremely levels as possible. It would be a thought had become the “clear issue of this United Way “Our main goal is to get hard and do a tremendous good balance of representation,” campaign.” College everyone to donate,” she said, amount of work. said Ambrose. Martin said that Canada’s beginnings were very Campaign “and our participation level Most of the events planned by Chandler has nominated different from the United States. He said that Canada wrap-up steadily increases every year.” the committee went well and Ambrose and Jurus to be next began with “the notion of sharing, generosity and “It was hard to get a sense of raised a lot of money for the year’s campaign co-chairs, but compassion between us.” where people were with organization, said Chandler. she is unsure who will be on the “The reason I raise it now is because a number of donating. We were pleased with This is the last year for committee. decisions that have been taken by [Conservation how the dessert auction turned Chandler as the committee’s chair “I am nervous to be co-chair,” Party leader] Stephen Harper in the last couple of said Ambrose, “but the SAC Wall of days make it very clear that there is not a new Fame more I work with the United Stephen Harper, and there is not a new Conservative Way, the more I realize I’m party, that this is the Stephen Harper of 10 years ago inductee working with the right orga- and this is the Alliance Party of 10 years ago.” Brigitte Chiki nization.” “Stephen Harper said yesterday that his Ambrose said she is fundamental views have not changed. He has said unsure about any changes to that the far-right conservative movement of the PM visits the campaign yet, but would United States equally influences him. In fact, he has our area Be Prepared…Get Informed like the new campaign to said that the far-right conservative movement of the “focus on a way to highlight United States is, and I quote, ‘a light and an ATTEND THESE FREE WORKSHOPS! the local community.” inspiration.’” University Prep Workshop “Thank you to everyone Martin also said he disagreed with the Harper’s who supported the cam- • Mon. Jan. 23/06 • 12:30 - 1:30pm plans to not honour the Kelowna agreement for paign and to people who aboriginals, his plans to withdraw from the Kyoto • Welland Campus • Room ME104 donated prizes. Without Accord, and the Conservative plans regarding • Mon. Jan. 30/06 • 1:30 - 2:30pm them, it would have been national daycare. more difficult. A special • Glendale Campus • Room W212 Martin said this of Harper’s position on ballistic thanks to the committee missile defence: “The fact is that the Canadian Stress Management Workshop members themselves: Car- government said we are not going to participate in olyn Ambrose, Lorraine • Mon. Jan. 30/06 • 12:30 - 1:30pm ballistic missile defence. We said we will make our Gelinas, Erica Jurus, Jen- own decision. We said this is not part of the foreign • Welland Campus • Room ME104 nifer Pinfold and Beg policy of Canada. Stephen Harper has just said that Crumm,” said Chandler. foreign policy is going to be made in Washington, Counselling Services “We had a lot of fun this not in Ottawa.” year. Thank you to We’re Here To Help! everyone who supported the Page 4, news@niagara, Jan. 20, 2006 Students Hospitality and Tourism newsletter released By JAYLENE POIRIER of Applied Business – Hospitality Operations black and white pictures and 10 per cent text. upset with Staff Writer Management program at Niagara College’s For the next issue coming out March 1, From working in six countries, hosting Glendale campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake. 2006, Jayawardena says, “My vision is very and serving 21 heads of state, including While the design of this newsletter was tak- creative. We want to do the best hospitality Cuban President Fidel Castro, and writing ing place, Jayawardena had to consider many and tourism newsletter in this country.” transit 10 books, Chandi Jayawardena is now things. He says that he “wanted to do some- “We would also like to increase the number launching Hospitality & Tourism News. thing in full colour while still staying within of pages and focus a page of the newsletter This is a 12-page newsletter hoping to catch their [the division’s] budget.” called, Meet Our Students. For this page, we problems the attention of residents outside of Niagara This issue’s funding came from the school’s will choose one or two students who have By AMANDA REYNOLDS College. In the newsletter, Dave Taylor, dean divisional budget. Jayawardena says, done extremely well in the industry and Staff Writer of the Hospitality and Tourism division, “Although someone else handles the funding, maybe capture one student who has currently Some college students are upset states, “In a concerted effort to inform all of we are looking to get sponsors.” done something unique, to give the students about the poor bus connections our stakeholders and various publics about the Inside the newsletter, readers can find infor- more coverage.” between Brock University in St. fabulous achievements of our students, staff mation on anything from awards, to a travel- In the future, Jayawardena says they will Catharines and Niagara College’s and industry partners, we hope that this ling family, to field trips that the current stu- get the newsletter more publicity, “in an indi- Welland campus. newsletter will bring even greater involve- dents have taken. rect way while trying to feature interesting or One student, who asked that her ment with valued industry and increased Jayawardena says, “A picture is like a thou- odd people.” name not be published, is upset awareness to our varied communities.” sand words,” so this fully coloured newsletter You can look forward to three more with Niagara Transit and the Jayawardena is a professor in the Bachelor is 80 per cent coloured pictures, 10 per cent issues in 2006. Welland-St. Catharines connection. She is also upset that Brock Uni- versity students have a U-Pass offered to them coinciding with a tuition increase at the university. Green to speak to public relations students Having this U-Pass entitles Brock students, with a student ID, to Former Niagara College faculty member Green’s talk, Writing for the Ear, is part of Norton’s The Essentials writing skills unlimited usage of Niagara Transit, Brian Green will be speaking to students in the public relations program’s speaker series. books. Since retiring, Green has continued Welland Transit and St. Catharines the Public Relations (Graduate Certificate) He will meet with the public relations stu- to write, revising his textbooks and pub- Transit. This service runs from program at Niagara College on Jan. 24. dents for an hour-long talk and a question- lishing freelance articles in publications September to the end of April. Green had a 30-year career teaching and-answer period. such as the Toronto Star and Canadian Fly Cindy Blanchard, general man- courses including broadcast journalism, As well as teaching, Green wrote and co- Fisher. ager of Niagara College Student modern history, English, theatre and com- wrote textbooks, including his Canadian He has also pursued interests in travelling, Administrative Council, says in puter applications. Broadcast Journalism and his and Sarah outdoor sports, cooking and wine. order to have the U-Pass at Nia- gara, SAC would have to arrange a vote of the students. “Because it’s a non-related tuition fee, it has to go to protocol commit- tee. [That committee, after giving it a nod] hands the vote to the Niagara College Board of Governors.” The board of governors has the final decision. Blanchard says SAC has met with the transit system management and this situation is being worked on, but that this is a long process. “Meetings are being held all the time,” says Blanchard, “but the most we can do is when student elections come along in March we can put a question on the referen- dum regarding the U-Pass and, hopefully, get a price so students will be aware of how much this U- Pass could cost us.” Ray Desormeaux, manager of transportation, Niagara Transit Commission, says that Niagara College has not made a deal sim- ilar to what Brock has yet. Des- ormeaux says, “Basically we felt if there was an increase to each student’s tuition, we would sup- ply a U-Pass. Niagara College wasn’t interested in increasing tuition for the U-Pass.” “Brock put out a survey giving all students the right to vote, with the tuition increase in mind, in order to receive the U-Pass. If Nia- gara College wants the same deal, we would have to do the same thing,” says Desormeaux. Dollar facts for Welland Transit * 22 rides = $38 * Month pass = $63 * Semester Pass = $260 (January – April) news@niagara, Jan. 20, 2006, Page 5 Job seminar provides answers Recruiter juggles roles for international students By KAESHA FORAND By TAKAHIDE EGUCHI Staff Writer Staff Writer Bhanu Vashishth’s personal digital assis- Looking for a job successfully seems to be an internationally recognized tant (PDA) is constantly ringing with an skill, so the recent International Job Seminar gave international students incoming call or an appointment reminder. tips about job search skills. He describes his blue PDA, a small handheld The seminar was introduced in 2002 by Larissa Strong, international computer as being his “best friend” and doubts student adviser, International Recruitment and Services, and Janet Forfar, he could live without it because it keeps his life consultant – Graduate Services The Job Centre, Workforce and Business organized. Development Division. He is a busy man as his job as an interna- Strong says she and Forfar used to get “a lot of students” coming into tional recruiter at Niagara College’s the offices asking the same questions about jobs, so they started the Welland campus requires him to stay in con- seminar. tact with international students, parents, She says they decided to put the expertise of the Job Centre on employ- agents and Canadian high commissions ment with the International office’s “immigration and cultural awareness worldwide. of differences of finding work in different countries.” Vashishth, 29, was born in Bhiwani, The seminar is held once in the fall term at the Welland campus and once India, into a wealthy family. His parents in winter at the Glendale campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Strong says own a 500-acre farm where they grow var- although there were about 12 students at the first seminar, “the word got ious types of fruits and vegetables. His out,” and over 100 students showed up at the next seminar. mother is a housewife and his father is a About 50 students eagerly waited at 5:30 p.m. in the Secord Room at the bank manager. Welland campus on Oct. 27. Vashishth received his bachelor’s degree The seminar was divided into four sections: resumé writing, cover letter in business administration from Meerut writing, interviews and work permits. Topics were presented by Forfar, University in Uttar Pradesh, India, and his Strong and Monique Morin, consultant with the Graduate Employment, master’s degree in business administration The Job Centre, Venture Division. from Bhopal University in Bhopal, India. Strong says she had “positive feedback” from the students. He came to Niagara College to enrol in the After the seminar, she encouraged students to work on their resumé and Tourism Development (Graduate Certifi- visit The Job Centre to ask for information. cate) program and subsequently the Human Strong suggests students start their job search now, especially if they are Resource Management (Graduate Certifi- looking for work after graduation or during their co-op. cate) program. “It’s a great time to ask questions and that way other students can learn “I always wanted to come to North Bhanu Vashishth, in traditional Indian attire, stands from their questions.” America to study, and I knew Canada was by a mirror with the “om” symbol in his office. It sig- Another consultant, Meghan Clark, of Niagara Falls, says the seminar a wonderful country.” nifies the most powerful word for Hindus. Vashishth was “fantastic.” During his first summer in Canada, is a recruiter in the International Education and She emphasizes that it is the partnership between the International office Vashishth met a Canadian family through a Development Department. and The Job Centre that “makes it so successful.” friend. He lived in their basement apartment Photo by Kaesha Forand Clark says she and her colleagues research on a yearly basis and try to from November 2001 to November 2005. keep up with employment trends. The family of seven introduced him to Cana- four years Vashishth has travelled to Germany, She points out the seminar should be a starting point for the students and dian celebrations and customs, treated him like India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, South Korea, Unit- an opportunity to learn Canadian customs, to which international students a member of their family and provided him ed Arab Emirates and Syria to recruit potential need to “be familiarized. Take lots of notes, ask lots of questions and be an with support. students at education fairs. active participant with the seminar.” As a student, Vashishth was always looking for As a recruiter, he also creates marketing strate- She says she is looking forward to seeing more international students opportunities to help in the International Depart- gies with his manager. coming into The Job Centre for extra help. ment. He would go to Sean Coote, manager of Vashishth said his journey would not have been Miguel Lorenzo, 17, from Venezuela, an English for Academic Prepara- International Services and Recruitment, every as successful if he hadn’t had support from tion program student, says, “It was an outstanding meeting” because he week to ask if he needed assistance with activities. Welland mayor and former teacher Damian Goul- learned some “important” things that he needs to know to get a job. One day Coote offered to pay Vashishth to bourne, Marcel Turpin, counsellor Donna Putman, The next international student job search seminar is going to be held make three different types of salads for an Eng- Prior Learning Assessment facilitator Michelle from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. in Yerich Auditorium at the Glendale campus on lish as a Second Language program graduation. Pugh, Coote, and his Canadian family because Jan. 26. He accepted, despite the fact that he didn’t they were all “pillars” during his journey. There will be free transportation for students coming from the know how to make the salads. Thanks to his His parents and his wife’s parents arranged his Welland campus. quick thinking, he found a friend who knew how. marriage because their doing so is an Indian tra- They can sign up for it in S100. They worked together, split the money and six dition. hours later Vashishth delivered salad to feed 200 He knew his future wife as a childhood friend, graduates. was offered her hand in marriage on April 24 and On another occasion he was asked to cook food accepted five days later. Their parents planned $1 million to local charities on a barbecue for a student get-together. the ceremony. Vashishth, who had never operated a barbe- The couple married on July 15 in India. His By KATE JEFFERIES totalling $53,490 to 18 community cue, problem-solved and asked an M&M Meat wife, Viparana Vashishth, has a bachelor’s Staff Writer groups across Niagara. Many of these Shop employee to give him a “crash course” on degree in commerce and plans to move to After four years of providing grants projects have an impact in Niagara, how to use it. Canada in 2006. to community groups across Niagara, with the grants providing resources Laughing at the situation, he added, “Thanks to Once Vashishth’s parents also move to Canada the Niagara Community Foundation that will enable these organizations to my awesome grasping power and good memory, they will live with him because it is an Indian tradi- has now awarded over $1 million to meet the needs of their clients. the way I was moving on that barbecue that tion that parents live with one of their children. local charities. When it comes to young people evening, people would not have guessed that it “I am proud to take care of my parents.” “This is truly a milestone as we volunteering in the non-profit sector, was my first time.” He said the high point in his life was receiving complete our fifth year,” says Betty- Liz Palmieri, executive director of When Vashishth came to Niagara College as an his Canadian immigration status. He had a party Lou Souter, grants committee chair, in the foundation, says gifts of materials international student, he spent many hours volun- with 145 friends, where Canadian and Indian a press release. such as clothing and food are always teering. Within his first year as a student he was food was served. A banner outside the hall read The Niagara Community Foundation appreciated. working part time helping students. “Bhanu CanIndian - May 20, 2004” for the day pools charitable donations from the “What’s really important is for After graduating in 2001, he was hired at Nia- he became a Canadian resident. When he community into permanent endowment young people to get involved with gara College as a part-time international assistant, receives his citizenship in 2006, he said, “it will funds and manages the income-earning something they’re passionate about. then as a part-time recruitment specialist. In 2004 be the destination to a journey, a journey of an funds for organizations involved in edu- Once you’re hooked emotionally, he began to work full time as an international international student to a Canadian citizen.” cation, health, arts, heritage, the envi- other kinds of support usually follow.” recruitment officer. He said his goal is to continue working as an ronment, literacy, leadership training For 2006 the foundation has four “Almost all international students are able to international recruiter to explore new markets and community development. grant programs established. Two of the achieve their goals in some way, but I think the and to make the college’s international enrolment “What is unique about the founda- upcoming programs are for organiza- way I approached everything and the little No. 1 in Ontario. Niagara College is currently tion’s granting program is that it sup- tions working in the environment or amount of time it took me to establish myself was ranked No. 6 of 24 Ontario colleges. On a per- ports registered charities working in any groups working with youth. Both have remarkable.” sonal level he hopes to “buy a lot of houses” and sector in any community,” says Andrea deadlines this month. As an international recruitment officer, he is open a business when his father arrives. Kriluck, president of the foundation. For more information go to www.nia- responsible for recruiting students and promoting Vashishth adds, “I’m an Indian by birth, a Cana- At its November meeting, the foun- garacommunityfoundation.org and Niagara College worldwide. Throughout the last dian by achievement, and am proud of both.” dation’s board approved grants click on grants. Page 6, news@niagara, Jan. 20, 2006 Editorials Publisher: Leo Tiberi Managing Editor: Phyllis Barnatt news@niagara Associate Managing Editor: Gary Erb V10, 300 Woodlawn Rd., Welland, Ont., L3C 7L3 Photography Consultant: Andrew Klapatiuk Telephone: (905) 735-2211 Fax: (905) 736-6003 Editorial Consultant: Nancy Geddie Editorial E-mail: [email protected] Technology Support: Kevin Romyn Advertising E-mail: [email protected] Publisher’s E-mail: [email protected] Composing Consultant: Paul Dayboll Printed by CanWeb Printing Inc. in Grimsby, Ont. Kaesha Forand Melissa Mangelsen Jennifer Gibbons Sarah Hirschmann Your opinion is welcome Editor Associate Editor Assistant Editor Photo Crew Chief E-mail: [email protected] Mail: V10, 300 Woodlawn Rd., Welland,Ont. L3C 7L3 Advertising rules: The advertiser agrees that the publisher shall not be liable for damages arising out of errors in advertisements beyond the amount paid for the space actually occupied by the portion of the advertisement in which the error occured. This applies whether such error is due to the negligence of its servants or otherwise. There shall be no liability for non-insertions of any In Person: Room V10, Welland campus. advertisement beyond the amount paid for such advertisement. All advertisers are asked to check their advertisements after first insertion. We accept responsibility for only one incorrect Policy: All letters must be signed and include a day insertion unless notified immediately after publication. Errors, which do not lessen the value of the advertisement, are not eligible for corrections by a make-good advertisement. There shall be and evening phone contact number for verification no liability for non-insertion of any advertisement beyond the amount paid for such advertisement. We reserve the right to edit, revise, classify or reject any advertisement. purposes. news@niagara is a practical lab for Journalism-Print students studying at Niagara College. Opinions expressed in editorials and columns are not those of news@niagara management or the college administration. Columns, identified as such, reflect only the writer’s opinion. Readers are welcome to respond to columnists by e-mail at [email protected] Federal election campaign costing millions Jim Harris was not permitted to participate To vote, or not to vote? That is the question. in the televised debates with the other four I’m sure you have seen green, red, orange and blue leaders, although he too aspires to be prime election signs on front lawns in the area. The federal minister. general election is on Jan. 23, and Canadian citizens To become prime minister, a leader’s over the age of 18 can vote. party must have the majority of the 308 I’ve never cared about voting because I’ve never seats in Parliament. been interested in politics. I am not enthusiastic about I was appalled when I learned that the the thought of four men travelling throughout Cana- Liberals, Conservatives, NDP and Green da on their private jets, with their election crew, try- Party are allowed to spend $18.2 million on ing to win votes. one election campaign. The Bloc Québé- I don’t like how they arrange photo opportunities cois can spend up to $4.6 million. That by serving one ice cream cone in a Dairy Queen, $77.4 million would be better spent fulfill- playing cards in a seniors’ home or reading to chil- ing their election promises. dren in a daycare. Two English televised debates have pro- Three men are vying for the title of prime minister: vided some insight on what party issues are. Issue and visited both websites; they have provided me Paul Martin, the Liberal leader, Stephen Harper, the positions, including education funding, can easily be with solid information that will help me decide. Conservative leader, and Jack Layton, the New accessed at http://www.ctv.ca/mini/election2006/sta- The Elections Canada website states that only 25 Democrat Party (NDP) leader. Bloc Québécois leader tic/issues/education.html. per cent of young voters vote. We, as students, should Gilles Duceppe can win up to 72 seats on Parliament For more information, visit the Elections Canada vote for what we believe in. This year I will vote for Hill and could not become prime minister because he website at www.elections.ca. I have read newspapers the first time in my life. has candidates only in Québec. Green Party leader KAESHA FORAND Everyone’s vote counts Election Day is Monday. As students, we should know the issues Many people are probably still unde- because they will affect how much we Read cided as to whom to vote for. pay in tuition, determine how much we There have been many chances to catch will receive for a student loan, and influ- Available on newsstands and at the coverage on the federal election. Last ence the interest rates on the loans we http://www.newsatniagara.com week Conservative leader Stephen Harp- need to pay back when we finish our time er, Liberal leader Paul Martin, New at Niagara College. Democratic Party leader Jack Layton and It’s important to us to be able to live a Gilles Duceppe, Bloc Québécois leader comfortable life while in college. engaged in a televised debate. As Canadian citizens, we should exer- Friday, Jan. 27 Post-debate, the polls indicated that the cise our right to vote and consider our- Friday, Feb. 3 Conservative party has taken a lead in selves lucky to have been provided with popular opinion in the election race. that freedom. Friday, Feb. 10 It is important for us as college students Many think politics is boring. I know Friday, Feb. 17 and Canadian citizens to stay informed people who have the attitude, “Well, I’m Friday, March 17 on political issues affecting us. only one person. My vote doesn’t matter Friday, March 24 I know some people who vote just for anyway.” the people their parents do, but it is Every vote matters. Federal, provin- Friday, April 7 important to stay individually informed cial and municipal politics affects our Friday, April 21 and make a smart choice. daily lives. Want to advertise in news@niagara? It’s important to know who is running and We live in a free country. Please contact Laura Tait, what they have to offer to the country. Come Jan. 23, exercise your right to vote. advertising director for the Welland Ontario has the most impact on elections You can make a difference. because we have the most seats at 106 of Tribune at 905-732-2411 ext. 281 or the 308 seats in Parliament. MELISSA MANGELSEN e-mail [email protected]. news@niagara, Jan. 20, 2006, Page 7 Letter to the Editor Unrealistic television ‘Quality Improvement Fund’ Dear Editor: An Open Letter Regarding Negotiations and Columns By AMY ZULINIAK Hamilton, Ont., says, “My poor “contestants” are exploited Quality Improvements in the Colleges to Ontario’s Staff Writer girlfriend makes me watch that for the good of the ratings and College students Column model show (America’s Next are made to look like fools. On Nov. 29, 2005, Premier Dalton McGuinty and When I tune into television Top Model) with her. I ended First, if you’re going to par- Chris Bentley, Ontario’s Minister of Training, Col- shows such as Survivor, up liking it because the girls ticipate in a show, you’re not leges, and Universities, announced additional funding America’s Next Top Model or are hot and they usually don’t the sharpest tool in the shed if to the college system of $87.3 million – the “Quality The Bachelor, I’m not looking to wear too much.” you don’t already know the pro- Improvement Fund.” be spiritually enlightened, There is such a wide range of ducers are going to edit footage “Our government is committed to providing a high- motivated or moved in anyway. reality shows that there is some- to benefit the show’s popularity. quality education for our students, who must compete I’m looking for an hour of relax- thing for everyone. The topics Even if you are made out to be with the best in the world,” said Bentley. “This new ation, a cheap thrill and a quick range from surviving, to dating, an idiot or a bitch, who cares? fund will make improvements that students will see laugh watching these unrealistic to cooking, to losing weight. When the program is finished and benefit from immediately – and accountability shows try to fake “reality.” I realize there isn’t anything airing, you’ll end up getting agreements will ensure that the extra money produces What is television coming to? insightful or deep about this publicity like crazy and make results.” I’ll tell you what: a reality tele- kind of programming, but is millions of dollars no matter The government’s first principle tied to the funding vision era. How can millions of there supposed to be? No. when you got voted off. is that the colleges must: “Hire more support staff and North Americans tune in if it’s These shows are purely for Reality television no doubt faculty so that students have better access to their apparently so unwatchable? entertainment purposes. has the potential to stay around instructors.” I do agree that the “reality” “I love Survivor and I won’t with huge ratings for decades. When the faculty negotiating team asked college portrayed is false. It is, howev- miss it, and if I know I’m not I am not alone in my love for- management on how they proposed to spend the Qual- er, highly entertaining. I, along going to be home, I get some- this tasteless string of program- ity Improvement Fund, they replied that some of it with millions of others, love one to tape it for me,” says Blair ming. I’m sure although many would be spent on hiring new faculty – but only for tuning in to see whose relation- Gardner, 24, of London, Ont. “I of you would never admit it, but additional enrolment. None would be spent on ship falls to pieces, which watch it because it’s exciting you have a secret love affair for improving current student/teacher ratios or on reduc- alliances break apart or who and what else is there to do on a The Biggest Loser or Survivor. ing class size. Any quality improvements for today’s gets voted off. Thursday night?” Let’s face it: reality television is students and faculty would be made only by a redistri- Sean Moulden, 23, of It has been argued that these here to stay. bution of existing work. None of the $87.3 million would be used to hire more faculty to service current student needs. The faculty identified quality improvements as their number 1 demand for the next contract. Faculty knew Saskatchewan has more that would mean hiring more teachers to serve the cur- rent students and future enrolment. The Bob Rae Review of post-secondary education in Ontario was unequivocal in its assessment of what was wrong in the colleges – Rae described college management as What we to offer us than Corner Gas “the poster child for efficiency gains” and added that the price for this focus on efficiency at the cost of By MELISSA think province starved of electricity, cable and high- quality was “a diminished ability to deliver the educa- MANGELSEN speed Internet. tional services Ontario and Ontarians badly need.” [p. Staff Writer I have been asked by other Ontarians, “Do they 48] Rae reported that the college system “suffers from The differences in people, land, culture and churn their own butter?” serious quality issues – teacher contact time, class expenses make Saskatchewan feel like home to me. I found their lifestyle to be similar to ours, size, deferred maintenance.” The TV show Corner Gas has made except they didn’t stress about the things that we Faculty want a new contract that addresses the real Saskatchewan well known over the last couple do here daily. issues of quality in the college system. The of television seasons. I rarely watch Corner Their pleasures in life seemed a lot simpler student/teacher ratio has increased by 33 per cent in Gas but was asked by people in Ontario, “Have than ours. the last decade. The number of students has increased you been to Corner Gas yet?” While I was there I read daily the Toronto Television by nearly 50 per cent while the number of regular programs I did end up seeing the town that Corner Gas is news about the 15-year-old girl shot and killed faculty has fallen by nearly 25 per cent. Management unrealistic based on and the home of the show’s star, Brent on Boxing Day and how the streets of Toronto tells us that is fine. They are content with that. They Butt. have taken a gradual downward spiral in the last want to spend the $87.3 million taking in more stu- entertainment I had never been to Saskatchewan until the 10 years. dents but not changing those trends or ratios. Christmas break and was unsure if I would like it After reading the Toronto newspaper, I would Faculty say enough is enough. We will not put up because I was born and raised in Ontario. read the Saskatchewan newspaper and see chil- any longer with the degradation of our college system. I was misinformed about dren playing in the snow and read Rae reported on the problems. The government has Saskatchewan until recently when I about issues of community businesses. heard Rae and has provided the first step in quality decided to take a trip there. It made me wonder what kind of improvement funding. College management refuses to I assumed that it was all flat impression people in western Canada do what is obviously needed, perhaps because it would farmland. While most of it is, were getting of Ontario, especially signal the truth of Rae’s assessment of the last decade. the province has great cities with with the gun violence in Toronto. Faculty have learned that management now plans to the same things that Ontario Prices in Saskatchewan are consid- invest in a public relations firm and launch a campaign Saskatchewan cities offer. erably lower than ours. The cost for to justify their decisions. More money wasted. an inviting While I was there I spent most housing in Saskatchewan is the lowest Faculty believe that our contract should be settled with- vacation spot of my time in Nipawin, Sask., but in Canada. out a strike – should have been settled already with the I also visited Saskatoon, Prince Melissa Mangelsen You can build or rent a nice house funding provided by the government to do exactly what is Albert and several smaller towns ColumnistColumist for a reasonable price. The power, needed. However, if a strike is what management along the way. heating and water costs are much demands before it will address the quality and workload Saskatchewan became a province on Sept. 1, lower too. issues, then that is what will result. In 1984, College fac- 1905, and just finished celebrating its centennial. Traditionally, Saskatchewan has been known ulty went on strike over workload and quality concerns. It is very different. Strangers stop you in for its agriculture. Wheat is the most familiar The gains made then resulted in additional funding and stores and start a conversation. Car drivers let crop and has been stereotypically associated the hiring of 1,000 more full-time faculty. Since that time, you cross the road, and I heard more “pleases with the province. However, it is also rich in quality has regressed and the student teacher ratio and and thank-yous” in the first day there than I canola, flax, rye, oats, peas and barley. Mining class sizes have once again risen to inappropriate levels have in Ontario in quite some time. has become a major industry in the province, Letter to the for college programs. This time the funding is already Editor The population of Saskatchewan in 2004 was and the province is the world leader in potash there for hiring additional faculty once again, for making recorded at 1,018,057, while in 2005 Ontario’s exports. quality improvements, for repairing the damage of the last population was 12,531,410. Forestry and uranium are also important to the decade. The population sizes are very different, but I province. To waste the recommendations of the Rae Review was surprised to see how different it was I was surprised to see the number of job oppor- of Ontario’s post-secondary system would be irre- environmentally and culturally. tunities in Saskatchewan. They offer factory, sponsible. Faculty will do what is necessary - strike if In Ontario you tend not to notice the yellow media and retail jobs and just about everything we must – to see that, in Rae’s words, Ontario students tinge our sky has as a result of pollution. that we offer here. get the post-secondary education they deserve. While in the west, I saw for miles. On days My experience in Saskatchewan was so pleas- Ted Montgomery, when the sky was blue, it was a pure blue. It was ant I have decided to do my program’s work Negotiating Team Chair, OPSEU the clearest sky I have seen. placement there and settle there as my permanent Paddy Musson, I admit that before travelling there I had the residence when I complete my time at Niagara College Academic Division Chair, OPSEU stereotypical view of Saskatchewan as a College. Page 8, news@niagara, Jan. 20, 2006 Facts are needed before voting Film portrays benefit, and those running for national affairs.” power are there to benefit from Fiona Balabykkubo, 24, the obvious wealth that originally from Uganda, power brings. Africa, is taking the killer as victim Terri Gibson, 39, of Port Pre-Health Science program. Colborne, is in the Office She will not be voting Jan. 23 Administration — Executive because she says her vote will To the dismay of most Ontarians, and (Co-op) program at not make any other Canadians alike, the controversial Niagara College. She says she difference. true crime film Karla will be released Jeremy LaForty today in Canadian theatres. ColumnistColumist is planning to vote for the “You’re gonna get screwed Conservative Party (PC). regardless. The majority vote It isn’t the first film about a real-life With the election Asked why, she said, “I believe last election felt that the crime. There have been films about approaching on Jan. 23, many that the Conservatives stand Liberal Party was the best murderers Jeffrey Dahmer, Charles Manson and many other notorious and folks are contemplating whom for the workers, blue-collared choice, but as a single mother I Amanda Street not-so notorious killers. What makes Columns to vote for. I will not be voting people. I’ve been one of them have only seen the bad side of ColumnistColumnist for anyone. my whole life. I’ve been Liberal ideals. But as much as I this crime so different? I have a serious problem following and voting for the don’t like them, all men will It could be that it took place right next door to most of us. trusting men of major political PC since I was 18, long enough make promises that they can’t Those living in the Niagara region were touched by the crimes power. We are all humans, and to know what they stand for.” keep. No one ever does what in one way or another. I remember always watching for a I believe we are all innately Steve Lamarre, 19, of they say they will do cream-coloured Camaro and seeing people wearing green selfish. We all eat, sleep, die Grimsby, Ont., and a Computer or should do, and I don’t want ribbons. and are controlled by our Engineering Technician to have any part in their cor- St. Catharines teenager Kristen French was a figure skater, What we various impulses. These men program student at Niagara, ruption.” and my mother had met her at different skating events. The events were close to home. That’s what separates this Think who we feel have the right to says, “I’ve made a point to Mike Maye, 32, of Niagara govern our lives are no keep up with current events Falls, does security at the film from Helter Skelter and Gacy. different, and if money is and have a pretty good idea college’s bookstore. Maye says Manson’s crimes were far more vicious and disturbing, but power or vice-versa, and how the country is run. I also he plans on voting but hasn’t we can sit back and watch them on the screen while we’re power is what they are watch Parliament events on yet decided on who will eating butter-ladden popcorn in the comfort of our homes or at the theatre. Voters: Make pursuing, why should I believe television.” receive his vote. that they truly care about Lamarre plans on voting PC “You need to wait until the I have read many true-crime novels and watched tons of the right anyone but their own personal and says he wants to get his ‘last minute’ of the true-crime movies; none of them made me flinch. choice success and that of their close “say” in politics so he can campaign movements to see I watched the trailer for Karla, on the film’s website friends and family? “help influence how the who’s full of it. They’re all http://www.karlathemovie.net, and it disturbed me, not because How much do you care country is run.” lying, so who’s lying the of any gory scene, or the exposing of the sick about those outside your circle Tim MacDonald, 20, of least?” sexual torture Paul Bernardo and Karla Homolka forced on of friends and family? When is Welland, and an Electrical Unless a person avidly seeks their victims. What sickened me was the way they portray Homolka. She’s always the victim. The Karla the last time that the affairs or Engineering Technician information on all of Canada’s despairs of a stranger or large program student at Niagara, affairs and how they are In the law’s eyes, it’s poor Ms. Homolka, or Teale, or Homolka group of strangers have says he will be voting for the handled, I don’t think whatever she is calling herself these days. movie motivated you to make a New Democratic Party (NDP). they should vote. What if The real difference between this film and films on killers like difference in their lives? MacDonald says, “If you don’t you’re voting for something Dahmer and Manson is that they are portrayed as what they I think we selfishly vote men vote, then I feel you don’t have bad? Has everyone forgotten are: psychopathic maniacs. They aren’t made out to be victims, into power for our personal any right to complain about what corruption is? so they aren’t portrayed as innocent. It’s an injustice that Homolka is out of prison, and it is unjust that this movie makes her out to be a victim. What about the Tom Cruise real victims: the teenage girls she tortured and killed? What and Katie TomKat dominating news about her sister, whom she was responsible for killing? Holmes a.k.a. Maybe if this movie didn’t glamourize Homolka, there “TomKat” wouldn’t be such a negative opinion on it. In Cruise’s last film, War of pulls her onto the stage. I’ll admit that I did want to see this movie. I read the books the Worlds, he confronts aliens, Then, the day the world was and I was OK with that. I was a little angry at times when I read but lately it is his behaviour waiting for arrives. On June about Homolka’s “vacation” to prison, but I handled the that seems out of this world. 17, Cruise, in another very descriptions of the crimes as I did any other crime novel. First, the twice-divorced public manner, a press Now that I’ve seen the trailer and have seen what angle this 43-year-old actor stuns the conference, announces his film has, I can say I have no desire to see it. world by dating Holmes, 26. engagement to Holmes, only Maybe I will see it one day, but I feel terrible paying my $10 Afterwards, Cruise and two months after they started to watch something that inaccurately portrays one of Canada’s BNataliey Natalie Ventresca Ventresca Holmes, or TomKat, as the dating. most notorious crimes. media have begun to call them, However, before TomKat ColumnistColumnist Maybe if the screenplay had been written by someone from did not shy away from the pub- could walk down the aisle, this area, it would portray Homolka as the sick person she is. Separately, he was Holly- lic eye, as many celebrity Holmes announces on Oct. 5 wood’s “golden boy” and she couples do. that she is pregnant. Holmes was poised to be America’s Instead, TomKat chose to do then announces that she is next sweetheart. all their making out on the red planning to leave her budding Together, they are as close to carpet instead of in the privacy Hollywood career to become a a freak show as anyone has of their home. stay-at-home mom. seen in years. Let’s just say Their public displays of To me, it seems like Holmes they are the conductor and affection were so frequently in is the one doing all the co-conductor of the crazy train. the news that some critics major changes in this Some people might find Tom began to question the validity relationship. In addition to Events Cruise and Katie Holmes’ of their relationship. halting her career when she is Upcoming courtship, engagement and They both had movies being at a pivotal age to win many pregnancy cute or romantic, released (Batman Begins and parts, Holmes, who is a Welland campus yet some, like me, find it all War of the Worlds), so many Catholic, is considering disturbing to the point where I considered this relationship to converting to Tom’s • Texas Hold’em Night • Doors open at 8 p.m. cringe every time I see them be simply a publicity stunt. controversial religion, together. Then, Cruise, in an Scientology. Winterfest Week Begins! To all his critics, Cruise interesting turn of events, I don’t care how persuasive • Log Saw competition • Mon. Jan. 23, at After Hours stated in an interview in the appears on The Oprah Winfrey or charming Cruise is. I would June 17 edition of Show, to again publicly never jump on the crazy train • Snow Cone eating contest • Tues. Jan. 24, at After Hours Entertainment Weekly that, announce his love for Holmes. with him. “Some people don’t like to see He expresses his feelings not I suppose if they are happy other people happy. If they by talking about it, as sane peo- together they should be left don’t like it, f*** them.” ple do, but does so acrobatical- alone, but when they are Glendale campus Now, now Tom, is that any ly by jumping up and down on actually inviting all this way to talk to the same people Oprah’s couch and publicity, the public has the • Niagara Idol • Every Wednesday at The Armoury buying tickets to your movies? falling to his knees. He then right to criticize. 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. You have to admit, though, runs backstage where an I just hope for the sake of • Winterfest Events • The festival kicks off on Jan. 23 and runs his behaviour over the summer unsuspecting Holmes was their unborn child that the until Jan. 27. See posters for details. has been odd. watching the show and literally crazy gene skips a generation. news@niagara, Jan. 20, 2006, Page 9 Niagara salutes icewine 18 hours of CPR training By NATALIE CLEWLEY munity and has grown to attracting Staff Writer over 50,000 people, becoming one of For 10 days in January, the Nia- the most popular events during the gara area celebrates the 11th annual winter season. could save a life in seconds Niagara Icewine Festival. Kroeker says that this event is impor- Brian Kroeker, marketing co-ordina- tant in the Niagara area because “it is By KAESHA FORAND ease transmission, injuries to the head and spine tor of the Niagara Wine Festival, says what we do best, and winter is the best Staff Writer injuries, sudden medical conditions, poison sub- that this winter event has been expand- season for icewine, no better season.” Taking a Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) stance abuse and misuse. ing since it began. Some of the suggestions he would course can help save lives. Upon completion of the course, participants Many events are planned until Jan. like to give to icewine lovers are to try A basic rescuer level C CPR course can teach life- receive a certificate and a wallet certificate. 22, including the Icewine Gala, where a variety of foods with the variety of saving techniques and requires 16 to 18 hours of “The CPR certification will help others recognize wine can be tasted and tried with dif- wine, recommending cheeses and learning time for 20 people. The course, which costs potential dangers; it will improve their portfolio and ferent foods from the menu. desserts. $125 per person, is taught by Niagara Falls Fire provide a generous donation to a worthy cause. It’s a One of Canada’s largest icewine bars Any of the wines tested at the festi- Department firefighters Mark Goodman and Bob win-win situation,” said Nicholas McMillan, a sec- carved from ice is being presented. val can be purchased at the respective Lymberner. ond-year Police Foundations student and one of the Admission is free. winery. Lymberner stressed the importance for everyone course organizers. The Icewine Classic is a two-day, “This is a great event to show that to have CPR training. Proceeds from future sessions will be donated by three-nights package for $525, which Niagara is still a great place to come to “Every second that goes by without CPR increas- Police Foundations and Fitness and Health Promo- includes many events such as winning in the winter as well,” says Kroeker. es chances of mortality ... It’s important for everyone tion program students to the Niagara Region Chil- a chance to stay at the classic Prince of For more information on events or to know CPR, it’s simple to learn and it’s something dren’s Safety Village. Two previous sessions yielded Wales hotel in Niagara-on-the-Lake. ticket purchases, visit the website at that everyone can do,” he said. $400, which will be donated to the Red Cross Hurri- The initial Icewine Festival started www.niagarawinefestival.com or call Lymberner, who graduated from the Paramedic cane Katrina victim fund. by attracting 100 people in the com- 905-688-0212. program at Niagara College, is a primary care para- The Student Initiative club organized the CPR medic in the region and re-certifies firefighters in courses. The club’s members are students of Niagara CPR, first aid and automated external defibrillation. College who are all committed and dedicated to the The next course will have three sessions: Jan. 31 success of students, Niagara College programs, orga- from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., Feb. 2 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. nizations and members of the community. Brawn, song set for Winterfest and Feb. 4 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. They will be held at They organized the courses because it is a require- It’s Winterfest! The Trailer Park Boys Niagara Idol caps the night from 8:30 the Niagara Region Children’s Safety Village on the ment for Fitness and Health Promotion students to are coming, too. p.m. to 11 p.m. Qualify for your chance college’s Welland campus. They are open to students continue in the second term of their program. It is The Student Administrative Council to win tickets to Panama Beach. and the public. recommended that Police Foundations program stu- (SAC) at both Niagara College campuses The Winterfest Grand Prize Give-a- The basic rescuer level C CPR course teaches the dents have taken the course. has a full roster of fun events Jan. 23 to way is slated for Thursday, as is the emergency medical services system, emergency Thirty students have been certified in two Jan. 27 to test your talent and physical Fetish Pub with doors opening at 9 p.m. action principles, airway and breathing emergen- sessions to date. agility and to tempt your fetishes. Most Capping the week is a ski trip on Fri- cies, cardiovascular emergencies/strokes, CPR, Inquiries about current or future sessions can be events are free of charge. day, Jan. 27, to the Blue Mountain Resort. automated external defibrillation, bleeding manage- made to [email protected] or contact McMillan At the Welland campus, the After Cost is $25. Sign up at the SAC office. ment and shock, secondary survey, preventing dis- at 905-685-3178. Hours pub is the venue for tests of skill If that hasn’t worn you out, then get and endurance. ready for the Nintendo 64 Tourney run- On Monday, the log saw competition ning Jan. 30 through Feb. 3. will have sawdust flying and buzz saws At the Glendale campus in Niagara-on- buzzing. the-Lake on Monday, it’ll be the Tuesday, it’ll be freeze your mouth and Snowflake Carnival from 11:30 a.m. to get painful headaches as the Sno Cone 2:30 p.m. outside the SAC office fol- Eating Contest gets underway. lowed on Tuesday by Open Mic in The Trailer Park Boys’ Mr. Lahey and Armoury during the same hours. Randy will be at the pub at 8 p.m. Entry Wednesday, Niagara Idol will see a to this event is by ticket sale only through new star wannabe, again in The Armoury the SAC offices. Advance price is $10, at from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. 0HHWD*ULI¿WKUHSUHVHQWDWLYHDQGGLVFRYHUZKDWVWXG\RSSRUWXQLWLHVDUH the door is $15. The general public cost is Thursday is the hot, hot Bahamas BBQ DYDLODEOHIRU\RXDW*ULI¿WK8QLYHUVLW\ $12. Organizers warn “some material with a cold, cold ski trip on Friday to may be offensive.” Blue Mountain Resort. *ULI¿WK8QLYHUVLW\LVRQHRI$XVWUDOLD¶VPRVWSURJUHVVLYHLQQRYDWLYHDQG On Wednesday, it’s the Obstacle For more details, see the posters G\QDPLFXQLYHUVLWLHV(VWDEOLVKHGLQ *ULI¿WKKDVUHFHQWO\VHWXS Course that challenges contestants, while throughout the campuses. DQDUWLFXODWLRQSDUWQHUVKLSZLWK1LDJDUD&ROOHJH6WUDWHJLFDOO\ORFDWHGLQ $XVWUDOLD¶VIDVWHVWJURZLQJUHJLRQ±WKHÀRXULVKLQJ%ULVEDQH*ROG&RDVW FRUULGRU*ULI¿WKLVD¿YHFDPSXVXQLYHUVLW\ZLWKPRUHWKDQVWDIIDQG VWXGHQWVLQFOXGLQJLQWHUQDWLRQDOVWXGHQWV Rave reviews at Rodman Hall $UWLFXODWLRQDUUDQJHPHQWV )RUDOLVWRI1LDJDUD&ROOHJH'LSORPD¶VWKDWZLOOOHDGLQWRRQHRUPRUHRIRYHU XQGHUJUDGXDWHDQGSRVWJUDGXDWHSURJUDPVDW*ULI¿WK8QLYHUVLW\SOHDVH YLVLWZZZJULI¿WKHGXDXFUHGLW 6FKRODUVKLSV 6FKRODUVKLSVDUHDYDLODEOHHDFK\HDUIRUVWXGHQWVRI1LDJDUDDQGRWKHU 2QWDULR&ROOHJHDUWLFXODWLRQSDUWQHULQVWLWXWLRQV$SSOLFDWLRQVPXVWEH VHQWWR.20E\2FWREHUIRUVWXG\LQ)HEUXDU\WKHIROORZLQJ\HDURUE\ 0DUFKIRUVWXG\LQ-XO\6HOHFWLRQFULWHULDZLOOLQFOXGHDFDGHPLFPHULW GHPRQVWUDWHGOHDGHUVKLSDQGSHUVRQDOFKDUDFWHU $*ULI¿WKUHSUHVHQWDWLYHZLOOEHDYDLODEOHWRGLVFXVVVWXG\RSSRUWXQLWLHV 3OHDVHFRQWDFW.20IRUIXUWKHULQIRUPDWLRQGHWDLOVDQGDQDSSOLFDWLRQIRUP .20&RQVXOWDQWV 32%R[ 0RXQWDLQ3OD]D3RVWDO2XWOHW +DPLOWRQ2QWDULR/ &1 7 ( LQIR#NRPFRQVXOWDQWVFRP CRICOS Provider Code: 00233E The Race by William McElcheran is displayed outside the Rodman Hall Arts Centre in St. Catharines. See the Jan. 27 edition of news@niagara for a review on the Persona Volare exhibit at Rodman Hall. Photo by Jennifer Gibbons Niagara 131 7mmx177 8mm indd 1 3/1/06 11:33:53 AM Page 10, news@niagara, Jan. 20, 2006 Welland campus welcomes registration booth for students By PATRICIA RODRIGUEZ Robert Boiter carried out this reg- could deliver it in person by the and BAILLIE ADCOCK istration day after one at Brock same deadline to the office of the Staff Writers University in St. Catharines. Boi- returning officer in any electoral For the first time in college his- ter said students at the university district. The completed ballot tory, a federal election registra- had been “really enthusiastic”; must arrive at Elections Canada tion booth was set up on Jan. 10 however, he says the short notice by 6 p.m., Ottawa time, on polling at the Welland campus to help and the holidays have affected the day. Nevertheless, students will be students register for Monday’s awareness overall. allowed to vote for the Welland election. “If we had had another week, the riding if they wish. Manned from 9:30 a.m. to 7:30 word would have been getting out,” On Election Day, the college will a.m., the site also provided a way to says Anderson. have a polling booth in the cafeteria raise student awareness of the elec- The registration form and guide foyer from 9:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., tion. There was no similar booth set for special ballots, designed for peo- said Sandy Reinhart, special events up at the Glendale campus. ple residing away from their elec- co-ordinator of Niagara College’s Registration was open to all eligi- toral districts, were also provided. Ancillary Services. ble voters. Students living on cam- Students were responsible to “It’s a good idea. It will encour- Linda Anderson and Robert Boiter, both of Port Colborne, were pus will be able to use the booth as send this form to Election Canada age them [students] to vote.” at Niagara College’s Welland campus on Jan. 10 registering a voting site on Jan. 23. in Ottawa by 6 p.m. on Jan. 17 For additional information on the voters for the Jan. 23 federal election. Volunteers Linda Anderson and before the polling day, or they election, visit www.elections.ca. Photo by Baillie Adcock Parties bicker over how to fund education By ROBIN HEALEY Transfer,” adding the Tory education policy will make gov- “The fact remains that the Liberal government passed it Staff Writer ernment “accountable.” [the 2005 budget],” says Roy, rebuking the NDP for taking The Liberals, the Conservatives, the New Democrats “What Tory policy? I haven’t seen one,” says Roy. He is credit for the budget’s inclusion of tuition relief. (NDP) and the Green Party are proposing changes to feder- dismissive of the Conservative tax credits, saying, “If you A representative for the Green Party was unavailable for al funding of post-secondary education in an attempt to can’t afford to go to school, you can’t use textbook credits.” comment by press time; however, the Green Party of Cana- court young voters. “Students, as a young generation of Canadians, feel more da 2006 Election Platform promises to freeze tuition across Under the Liberal 50/50 plan, the “federal government than any other generation the benefits of Liberal govern- the country immediately and reduce fees “as well as [create] pays 50 per cent of the cost of first- and graduating-year ment.” Roy says the Liberals will expand the Canada Access needs-based grants to address the student debt crisis.” studies for all students,” says Marc Roy, a Liberal party Grant program for low-income students. The platform says, “Accountability, accessibility and ade- spokesperson, in a telephone interview from Ottawa. “The young generation coming out of colleges and uni- quate funding are what Canada’s education system demands,” “The timeline is not set for the 50/50 plan yet,” says Roy, versities have hope,” says Roy, citing “a low unemployment adding, “Education is not an expense; it’s an investment. noting his party will seek an agreement with all the rate, strong economy and availability of jobs at graduation” “I haven’t seen anything that I disagree with,” says provinces and territories “similar to health care” that will as reasons for students to vote Liberal. Phillippe Ouellette, national director of the Canadian include an “opt-out clause” for provinces and territories that The NDP will put aside $4 billion to reduce tuition “for all Alliance of Student Associations (CASA), about the party don’t want to join. years of school,” says Ian Capstick, NDP press secretary to platforms on education, but he hastens to add, “That’s not to The Liberal 50/50 plan is “hard to believe,” quips Peter Van the campaign, in a telephone interview from Ottawa. say I’m super-impressed.” Loan, Conservative MP for York-Simcoe and the party’s edu- He calls the Liberal 50/50 plan “too little, too late.” He “The federal government can’t just say, ‘I’ll give you $4 cation critic. Speaking by phone from Bradford, Ont., Van says “fees keep going up” under the Liberal government, billion and it will be for education,” cautions Ouellette, in a Loan says the 50/50 plan is “ironic because it comes so late” adding, “Mr. Martin is using a fly-by-the-seat-of-his-pants telephone interview from Ottawa. He would like to see an and considers it a “last-minute attempt to grab votes.” policy program.” education accord on federal transfers emerge from a first “Tuition has tripled since the Liberals were in power.” “Money transferred to the provinces is not always used for ministers’ meeting to make funding post-secondary educa- He says his party will make the first $10,000 of scholar- its intended purpose,” notes Capstick. He says the NDP will tion “clear, reliable and accountable.” ships and bursaries tax-free and will give a $500 tax credit use a “strings-attached approach” to funding to ensure that “Right now there is nobody to blame,” jokes Ouellette, to students or their parents for textbooks. money allocated for education is used for that purpose. who sees “political passing of the buck” to avoid responsi- “If you win the lottery, you don’t have to pay taxes on The NDP will immediately reduce tuition and continue to do bility as the biggest problem facing education. that. If you win a scholarship, you do. We want to change so as money becomes available until “tuition is at an appropri- He says the major political parties, with the exception of that,” says Van Loan. ate level,” which, Capstick says, is similar to what students the Bloc Québécois, have indicated they want to “bring the The Conservatives will give a $1,000 grant for each of the paid when the Liberals took office in 1993. He expects the funding formula back to the levels of 1992 and 1993.” first two years of an apprenticeship and a $500 tax credit on restoration of funding to take “four to five years.” “I’ve been around student politics for a while, and I’ve tools purchased by certified trades people, which, he says, The NDP plans to overhaul the CSL program by giving never seen anything like the 50/50 plan before.” will help those who are newly certified and “have to spend grants instead of loans to low-income students and “access He says the opt-out clause is “promising for Quebec” a lot of money on equipment at first.” to loans regardless of parental ability to pay,” says Capstick. and thinks Quebec likely wouldn’t join the 50/50 plan, Van Loan says the Tories will institute a preferred interest He explains the changes are necessary because “too many since it doesn’t participate in the current education trans- rate for Canada Student Loans (CSL) to replace the current students have to work long hours” to pay for their education fer agreement. “[The Quebec government] does a lot more interest rates that “are two to five per cent above prime.” as a result of being excluded from the loan system based on for tuition.” He says the Liberals have “resisted dedicated [post-sec- parental income. Ouellette says education is “a very high priority, the sec- ondary education] transfer payments and lowering the stu- “You can’t force parents to pay loans.” ond or third priority, for each leader.” He had hoped the dent loan interest rates for 13 years.” “A lot of people are disqualified from student loans based leaders would provide “more explanation of the issues “The kind of transfer we’re looking at is what we had on parental income; we would base loans on student instead of just saying they will give money to education.” before those cuts,” says Van Loan, referencing the Liberal income,” adds Van Loan, whose party also sees a need to He says students should visit www.thinkeducation.ca for more cuts to federal education transfer payments in 1995. improve CSL access. information about the education policies of the major parties. “Nobody really knows how much money is going into “The NDP has proven we get results for students,” says Ouellette says high tuition, financial debt and limited education.” Van Loan says the education transfer is “bun- Capstick, noting that the NDP rewrote the Liberal budget of access to loans “are not realities you have to live with.” dled with other money in the Canadian Health and Social 2005 to set aside $1.5 billion for tuition relief. “Think education when you go vote.” news@niagara, Jan. 20, 2006, Page 11 Views differ By PATRICIA RODRIGUEZ Staff Writer After 10 Great Canadian Election Debates throughout the commu- nity, Niagara College’s Hamilton Room at the Welland campus served as the closing location for Welland riding’s six federal party candidates to sway the electorate. On Jan. 18, candidates Liberal MP John Maloney, Conservative With four days left before Election Monday, an all-candidates debate for the Welland riding was held at Mel Grunstein, New Democratic Party Jody DiBartolomeo, Green Niagara College’s Welland campus in the Hamilton Room Wednesday night. Stating their parties’ plat- Party Brian Simpson, Christian Heritage Party Irma D. Ruiter and forms and answering audience questions were, from left, Ron Walker, Marxist-Leninist Party; Brian Marxist-Leninist Party Ron Walker discussed issues such as health Simpson, Green Party; Irma Ruiter, Christian Heritage Party; John Maloney, Liberals; Mel Grunstein, care, post-secondary education, violence, victims’ rights, unemploy- Conservatives; and Jody DiBartolomeo, New Democratic Party. ment and the budget deficit. Photo by Baillie Adcock During the two-hour debate, the candidates fielded nine questions from audience members through the debate’s moderator Judy Willems, He added his party should have more representation in Parliament. the college’s marketing director. About 75 people attended. The Pelham-Welland Chamber DiBartolomeo, on the other hand, explained he would address the issue of education of Commerce and The Tribune, Welland’s daily newspaper, co-sponsored the event. affordability and the need for more skilled, trained people. The debate began with a three-minute opening statement from each candidate. Ruiter says her party is strong on family issues citing the importance of providing women Topics included the not withstanding clause of the Canadian Constitution, the need for with more support options, so they are able to spend more time with their children. skilled tradespeople, same-sex marriage and what issues, if electorally successful, they “We have to get more female candidates involved in government,” was the issue Simpson would propose in the House of Commons. said he hopes to champion. Increasing Canada’s “blueprint,” was Simpson’s second proposal. If re-elected as MP, Mal- Walker said he would address the Canadian judicial process evaluation and HIV med- oney said he would address ication production and distribution. Election quiz the living situation of the Dan Patterson, Niagara College’s president, said, “We were delighted to host an all aboriginal people. He would Canadian Election Debate. Our Hamilton Room provided a wonderful forum for commu- By AMBER BEARDWOOD also pursue further assis- nity members to participate and ask questions to all candidates. I personally found the Special to news@niagara tance to post-secondary edu- debate helpful and informative.” cation and help the disabled. “I applaud people who put their names forward for public office. We need more people 1. How many seats are there in the House of Grunstein said he would to get involved if we are to maintain our democratic society.” Commons? “want to see more democra- Conservative Party Leader Stephen Harper rallied supporters in St. Catharines last night (A) 204 (B) 298 (C) 308 (D) 367 cy” with various forms of at the Quality Hotel Parkway Convention Centre on Ontario Street. The 6 p.m. event was proportional representation. 2. How many political parties are currently after news@niagara’s press time. registered to run in a general federal election? (A) 11 (B) 7 (C) 12 (D) 8 3. How old do you have to be to run in as a candidate Media blitz keeps Martin on toes in a general election? (A) 18 (B) 21 (C) 20 (D) 19 By JEFF FORAN The only way one can tell the differ- music has been drowned out. Staff Writer ence between security and the men with As Martin makes his way up to the 4. What Canadian organization tries to encourage When the prime minister comes to the badges are the security service’s podium and throughout his entire young people to vote? your town, it is a big deal. long trench coats and the fact that none speech, a member of his security detail (A) Push the Vote (B) Rush the Vote It’s an even bigger deal if you are of them speak a word, not one. stands to his right, facing the crowd, (C) Rock the Vote (D) Roll the Vote 10 days away from a national election Amidst the growing anticipation, the whom he never takes his eyes off. 5. About what per cent did the Liberals receive in and that prime minister is fighting for men with the badges clear a walkway Other members of his detail are ran- the 2004 election? his political life. for the soon-to-arrive prime minister. domly placed throughout the audience. (A) 25 per cent (B) 42 per cent This is what happened in St. Shortly after this, a huge Greyhound You can tell who they are because (C) 49 per cent (D) 37 per cent Catharines last Friday at Walt bus arrives, followed by another, and when you make eye contact with them Lastewka’s local Liberal headquarters. that one followed by another. The first they will outstare you until you look 6. When did women gain the right to vote in You may have seen his speech on two saw media and press, while the last away. When you look back, they are Canadian elections? television or heard it on the radio, but one is painted in the Liberal Party’s still staring at you. (A) 1919 (B) 1923 (C) 1914 (D) 1926 you would probably not understand the colour of red with “Paul Martin” written One of the men with the badges hurricane in which such an important in huge letters along the side followed stands at the back of the room. Every 7. What is the most popular season to hold a federal head of state lives 24 hours a day, by a picture of the man. time the prime minister finishes say- general election in Canada? (A) Winter (B) Spring seven days a week, 365 days a year. A minute after the buses have ing something, he claps and gets the (C) Summer (D) Fall The police were circling the parking come to a stop, a horde of men and whole crowd to start applauding. lot of the plaza prior to Prime Minister women holding massive cameras When the prime minister is finished 8. Who was Canada’s first Prime Minister? Paul Martin’s arrival. enter and set up their tripods. Right his speech, everything that began when (A) Sir John A. MacDonald (B) John Diefenbaker Men in suits with Liberal badges and behind them is another group of he walked in happens all over again in (C) Richard B. Bennett (D) Alexander Mackenzie earpieces prepped the public who had media, this time photographers. the reverse. His bodyguards surround come to see the man speak, identified When they are all settled and read- him and escort him out. 9. Which three provinces have chosen fixed election the press and told them “the rules” ied, the soundman begins to play U2 is drowned out again. dates? about where they were allowed to stand. U2’s Elevation, and in walks Prime Outside, police have formed two walls (A) British Columbia, Ontario, Newfoundland and As more and more Liberal support- Minister Paul Martin. that allow Martin to walk out with ease. Labrador (B) Ontario, Alberta, Quebec ers were ushered into the small, He enters just as Bono himself Protesters are pushed away while (C) Nova Scotia, Manitoba, Ontario cramped room filled with seniors and would, with people trying to shake his well-wishers are allowed to get close (D) Alberta, British Columbia, Newfoundland and children who were put in the front row, hand or get a word with him as his enough to shake Martin’s hand. Labrador the men with the badges and earpieces eight bodyguards surround him. Others The security detail struggles to keep kept the crowd under control. further away from the aisle are taking them at bay. 10. Prior to this government, when was the last With the majority of the public pictures and filming him with their After a brief photo-op at a local minority government in Canada? now assembled inside, a team of the hand-held cameras. The press are tak- school across the street, Martin steps (A) 1970 (B) 1984 (C) 1979 (D) 1987 prime minister’s security detail ing thousands of photographs and the onto his bus and waves goodbye. arrived, quickly scanning the scene strobes of lights going off from the The media quickly scramble to - 1 C, 2 C, 3 A, 4 B, 5 D, 6 A, 7 D, 8 D, 9 A, 10 C 10 A, 9 D, 8 D, 7 A, 6 D, 5 B, 4 A, 3 C, 2 C, 1 - answers and making mental notes of every flashes are the perfect equal to the roar their buses and follow Martin to his person in the building. from the people inside. Unlike U2, the next destination. Page 12, news@niagara, Jan. 20, 2006 news@niagara, Jan. 20, 2006, Page 13 Campaign nears end By PATRICIA RODRIGUEZ Staff Writer The Canadian Alliance of Student Association’s (CASA) latest campaign is raising students’ awareness of the importance of education during the Jan. 23 federal election. CASA’s National Voter Education Campaign was launched on Jan. 9 with the objec- tive of engaging and educating students about all political parties’ key post-secondary education positions. An interactive website, www.thinkeducation.ca, and a series of all-candidates debates held on university and college campuses across the nation were the two com- ponents of this campaign. The campaign’s objectives were to indicate to students “when, where and how to vote” and to fully inform them about what the key post-secondary education issues are and how the candidates are tackling them. “They can think about education when they vote,” Phillippe Ouellette, national director of the CASA, said. “We are doing a pretty good job advocating the campaign,” considering the lack of time the CASA had to promote it, he added. The website provides students and public with complete election coverage about polling station locations and key election information, candidates’ overall views on major issues, particularly on post-secondary education, and the parties’ proposed plans, in addition to many other links. “Our website is very interactive. It’s unique,” said Ouellette. In previous years, this website had been designed for the general public. After last month’s federal election announcement, CASA redirected its focus to educate students, said Caen Suni, CASA public relations and communications officer. Through this website and the debates, CASA intended “to reach indecisive students” and guide them in making the choice, said Suni. “Our message is very clear: we want students to think education when they vote. We want to stimulate a dialogue,” said Ouellette. The series of Great Canadian Election Debates held across Canada provided stu- dents with a direct political involvement by allowing them to question the candidates. “We are trying to bring politics right to their front doors to get students more involved, interested and informed,” said Suni. He added that the debates provided stu- dents with “a great opportunity” to see it “first-hand.” Ouellette said the debates gave students a chance to hear how each party intends to change or improve the current educational system. “At the moment, students are not happy with post-secondary education. They need an avenue to hear who offers the best alternative,” added Ouellette. “We all feel that they [politicians] don’t give enough importance to the issue of edu- cation,” said Suni. Although politicians say education is their “top priority,” it “usually” ends up being “a one-day announcement,” he added. “They haven’t backed it up effectively.” Among the student community, education places at the top, added Ouellette. For politicians, on the other hand, education is a second or third priority, “which is fantas- tic,” if it were actually prioritized as “number 2 or 3,” he said. “They need to make education a larger component. Unfortunately, Canadians haven’t made education a priority [either],” said Ouellette. He said CASA is trying to make this federal election easy for students by facilitat- ing them with on-campus polling stations as well as detailed information to eliminate confusion. “The main objectives of this campaign [are] to get students to vote, to get them engaged and to eliminate confusion,” said Suni. Suni said planning and promoting the campaign was a “challenging” task, yet he believes they have managed to promote and organize it to its “max.” “It worked out well,” said Suni. Having the election during school time has also provided a “good opportunity to cre- ate effective discussions between the students,” said Ouellette. “This [has made] it easier to reach students. “Students just need to make the contribution of voting, and the sooner they make a decision, the better it will be for them,” said Suni. CASA, a non-profit national organization celebrating it 10th anniversary, represents 19 student governments and over 250,000 students. This member-driven organization Prime Minister Paul Martin meets local school children at St. Denis Catholic School in St. Catharines on Jan. 13. Local Liberal candidate Walt Lastewka walks behind the prime minister. focuses on post-secondary education issues by addressing the challenges these stu- Photo by Jeff Foran dents face within federal jurisdiction. “Students have become more intentional of how they want issues to be discussed and what issues they want to discuss,” Ouellette added. Universities and colleges have started to create an “avenue” to discuss youth and educational related issues,” said Ouellette. “This is fantastic. It has demonstrated how important this issue is to students.” Liberals promise lower tuition rates By BAILLIE ADCOCK a focus on science and policy at Carleton University in Ottawa. On Jan. 23, students across Canada will be able to vote in the riding where they Staff Writer The Ontario Young Liberals (OYL) represents members of the Liberal Party of live during the eight-month student calendar year. OYL hopes this option for stu- Students will do almost anything if someone else pays for 50 per cent of it. Canada between the ages of 14 and 26. dents will “empower the voting block and mobilize students to vote.” Prime Minister Paul Martin has outlined a new plan with that same appeal ensur- Not only will this plan provide assistance to students, but it will also ensure that Postcards with voting incentives and information are being distributed to Ontario ing easier access to post-secondary education. Canada remains competitive and dynamic in the world’s economy by widely pro- students. All students will have 50 per cent of their first-year tuition paid and 50 per cent viding education to its youth, Liberals say. “This is a very important election for students … It forces youth issues onto the of their final-year tuition paid under this new platform commitment. “The plan is a very real, very dramatic difference for students. It’s a tangible way political map,” said Jen Beckerman, OYL student director and Carleton University “This is a progressive and radical position,” says President of the Ontario Young to increase access and alleviate tension.” Youth Liberal president in a press release. Liberals, Andrew Teliszewsky, 24, of Ottawa. OYL has launched a print advertising campaign that will make students aware of For more information on how to vote in your local riding or on the election in gen- Teliszewsky is working towards his master’s degree in public administration with the implications that come with choosing not to vote. eral, visit www.oyl.org or www.elections.ca. Page 14, news@niagara, Jan. 20, 2006 Decision to vote a personal choice By TAKAHIDE EGUCHI Ont., a mall representative, says the govern- for everyone, adding, “This is what makes Giordano says she would vote for the Lib- Staff Writer ment has positions on “lots of issues” such our country.” eral party, as she has not had any issues with Every person has a right to vote or not. as youth crimes and tax breaks for elderly Melody Lapointe, a 23-year-old assistant what they have been doing now. Voters in Ontario will give their final people. manager of retail operations, considers her- Ray Safar, a shopkeeper, has been living in opinions on Monday in the federal election. “They should be more lenient to the older self a “fairly” up-to-date person, as she has Toronto for 15 years. Safar, 45, emphasizes A recent on-the-street survey shows how the people.” an idea about what’s going on in the federal no government can do anything for people. tally may go. Don Fiske, 65, of St. Catharines, a busi- government through newspapers and TV. Although Safar does not believe in any Zerg Tareen, 30, manager at The Record nessman in sales and marketing, says he is Lapointe, of Fonthill, says she is not going parties, he says he would vote for the NDP Shop in Toronto, says he votes every time. going to vote for the Conservatives. to vote because the politicians don’t “always when “I don’t have any choices.” Whether the government will stay the “I find (party leader Stephen) Harper a follow through on what they say. I don’t He says that is because the NDP is “a same or change, he says, “if you like the very honest man.” think there is anyone worth voting for.” little bit” talking about people and the country, voting is important.” Prime Minister Paul Martin is trying to Richard Newman, of Toronto, says the NDP environment. Although he believes no government is make Harper “a bad guy,” says Fiske, is the “only well-meaning political party,” Ian, (who refused to give his last name), of “perfect,” Tareen says he is going to vote adding that the Liberal is “too dishonest” compared with the Liberals and Conserva- Toronto, a horticulturalist for 18 years, says he Liberal. and that made up his mind. tives, who he thinks want to help themselves, is not voting for any of the parties. His decision The “good things” they did surpass the Fifty-seven-year-old Carol Hodges, of not the people of Canada. to not vote is “my democratic right.” “bad things,” says Tareen. Toronto, a supervisor in horticultural interi- Newman, 23, who works at a bookstore in He says to be told “I’m not allowed not to Trevor Vanek, 25, from North Sydney, or landscaping, says she “traditionally” Toronto, recognizes Jack Layton, NDP vote is to infringe on my democratic rights. N.S., is in the third year of the Pharmacy votes for the New Democratic Party leader, as “an excellent, smart man” and It’s an expression of your freedoms.” program at the University of Toronto. Vanek (NDP). She says the Conservatives will likes his leadership, whereas Martin, the Cathy Simon, a public service assistant at says he is not going to vote because he is not win; however, the NDP will be the “swing” Liberal leader, is “very out of touch with the Welland Public Library, says she has too familiar with events and the different party, meaning the Conservatives will need Canadians” and has not kept the Red Book not decided which party she is going to parties in Ontario. the NDP’s help to pass some bills and the promises of the last election. vote for but says it is a privilege and He points out he would not go to vote NDP can ask them to do what they want to Alexandra Giordano, 18, a high school responsibility to vote. “just for the sake of voting” and needs to do, which is “more people oriented than student in Toronto, says she is not interested “Living in a democratic society, we have know what the platforms are. business oriented.” in politics, explaining she does not have the responsibilities to uphold the society by Carol Maxted, 67, from Mississauga, She thinks going to vote is an “obligation” time to follow it. exercising the right to vote,” says Simon. Strumming a tune Bullying not cool By AMANDA REYNOLDS do about it.” Staff Writer It was because of the constant teasing, Bullying in schools is not going away. McLellan says, “my daughter thinks she is According to the website www.canadian- fat. She refused to eat because she is being health-network.ca, bullying is a conscious, made fun of. She also stopped playing with wilful and deliberate, hostile activity toys she usually always did and started phys- intended to harm. It is a serious concern that ical fights with her three-year-old sister.” can have lasting effects on a child being Common signs that a child is being bul- bullied. lied at school, as well as signs of depres- Forms of bullying can include verbal, sion, are loss of appetite, violent actions social and physical abuse. The impact can and loss of interest in things that normally cause low self-esteem, depression, suicide interested them. and guilt. There are many groups and websites to go Courtney McLellan, 8, of Kitchener, Ont., to for information if your child or you are is a Grade 3 student and has experienced being bullied. Recently, television has aired many forms of bullying on the school many Stop The Violence campaigns. grounds during recess. She says that there is The excellent website www.bullying.org a boy at school who teases her every day. shares ideas of what people can do and pro- “There was one time he and his friends vides additional information with links. It picked me up and threw me on the ground also gives people the opportunity to become Doc MacLean, a musician for more than 30 years, plays a guitar on a street and started to kick my stomach.” a partner and to become an online mentor. in Toronto Nov. 12. When Tammy McLellan, 28, of Kitchener, “I want to go on the website to do every- Ont., says she approached the school about thing I can to help my daughter and the pos- Photo by Takahide Eguchi this issue and staff told her because “it hap- sible other children who are also experienc- pened during recess, there is nothing we can ing bullying at school,” says McLellan. Available on newsstands and at Falls more than casino http://www.newsatniagara.com By JAYLENE POIRIER Marketing program’s courses will experi- Friday, Jan. 27 Staff Writer ence a “cruise course” offered by the col- Friday, Feb. 3 Niagara Falls is a travel destination for lege. This year the students will travel to the Read many tourists. Every day thousands of peo- Caribbean to experience the local foods and Friday, Feb. 10 ple visit the “strip,” more commonly known get to know the tourist markets by research- as the Gateway, home to restaurants, haunt- ing their stops along the way, thereby gain- Friday, Feb. 17 ed houses, rides, the casino and the falls. ing knowledge of the surrounding areas. Friday, March 17 The Niagara Gateway Project is Niagara’s While most people coming to the falls are attempt to attract people to the city. The idea looking to experience the surroundings, Friday, March 24 was to build the city’s reputation as the best there is usually that “one thing” that catches Friday, April 7 place to enjoy a travel experience, and, as a their eye in the first place. result, bring in more tourists. Leo, 70, and Pat Pitre, 71, of Stroud, Ont., Friday, April 21 In 2001, construction of the Fallsview say that they “love to come for the casino.” Casino began, at a cost of $800 million. For a while now, the Pitres have been tak- Plans to make the region a destination ing a tour bus from their hometown to enjoy began long before the casino opened its a day at Niagara Falls. While they both “love wHy try wHaggle? doors, however. to gamble,” they say that they enjoy the David Veres, director of the Hospitality scenery. It’s an online market where you can make great deals and Tourism Division at the Glendale cam- “It’s nice to come up here for the day. Nia- that fit a student’s budget! pus in Niagara-on-the-Lake, says, “We are gara Falls is so beautiful, but we mostly looking to bring cross-border attractions to come to enjoy the casino,” says Mrs. Pitre. the Niagara region. Most of our students Laura Davis, 34, says, “I just come here to here at Niagara College end up working in visit friends, but they always take me to the hotels and restaurants. We are always falls for the day. I find it interesting to look encouraging a higher population of interna- at all the different people and shops and get tional students to help further our knowledge a kick out of the haunted houses. I enjoy the of other cross-border destinations.” casino, but we spend most of our time walk- This is the BEST place to buy and sell just about anything In January the students in the Tourism and ing alongside all of the shops.” with people across campus, across town or across Ontario! news@niagara, Jan. 20, 2006, Page 15 AIDS/HIV The Niagara Perspective By ELISABETH BAILEY started],” said Ed Eldred, resource organization is in great need of aspect of the work AIDS Niagara er.” Thompson said that she and Staff Writer development and communications volunteer drivers. does. Thompson says, “I think one Yurchuk spoke to a group of The office is tucked away in co-ordinator for AIDS Niagara. “It’s something that’s hard to of the greatest contributions that Grade 11 and 12 students, but the corner of the Normandy “People were a little shocked to come by. [Drivers] will quite often this agency has made and contin- “they sure don’t seem to know a Resource Centre on Church Street realize [AIDS] was actually in spend the better part of a day on ues to make is its efforts in educa- lot about it.” in St. Catharines. The small, nar- their community, like any new dis- the road with one client.” tion, which is really the key to get- “Somehow we’re losing the row reception area is lit up by ease, but I think people got to Another service of AIDS Nia- ting a handle on this disease. To message out there,” says Eldred. colourful pamphlets, by plaques understand that pretty quickly, that gara is the Street Works needle me that is one of the biggest con- “It just goes back to making sure commemorating achievement and it was here and something needed exchange program. tributions we’ve given to this people understand that this is still by a large fish tank. It almost to be done to help people.” “The concept behind the needle region as far as the work that’s a fatal disease.” doesn’t feel like an office at all, “I mean, in those days people exchange program is that it’s a being done here.” One last look at the small, clut- but the knick-knack cluttered liv- did not live long once they were harm-reduction program,” says AIDS Niagara gives talks at tered reception area and more can ing room of an eccentric, yet love- diagnosed with the disease.” Eldred. To minimize the spread of schools and other organizations, be noticed than just a sense of able relative. This little reception AIDS Niagara provides ser- HIV, hepatitis C and other blood- educating people about HIV and quirky friendliness. There is a area is the first indication of the vices to people infected and borne diseases, people can get ster- AIDS. Eldred says that though sense of underdog pride. AIDS friendly and accepting atmos- affected by HIV and AIDS, mean- ile syringes, exchange used ones some people don’t feel vulnerable Niagara is one organization armed phere of AIDS Niagara. ing those living with the diseases and receive information about to them, “everybody has to be with passionate people, an unwa- “We have social events here for and the family members, signifi- safer needle use. The needle concerned about AIDS because it vering commitment and a driving clients,” says Jody Yurchuk. “I cant others and friends of people exchange is done at the AIDS Nia- knows no boundaries: male, sense of purpose. Those assets had one of our clients say one infected with HIV and AIDS. gara office and in a van that travels female, gay, straight, black, yel- may be enough to take arms up time that she was so thankful to be General counselling is done by the region four nights a week. low, white, it doesn’t matter. It against the formidable foes of able to come into that because it support workers in the home of “If people at least keep them- knows no boundaries whatsoev- HIV and AIDS. was a safe environment for her to clients or at the AIDS Niagara selves as healthy as possible be involved in. Our volunteers office to help them deal with the while they’re using drugs intra- react the same way. It’s a safe emotional effects of living with venously, then at least when and if Set a course for adventure place to come and hang out. It’s their disease. they decide to give up that habit, The organization also helps at least they won’t have a fatal support.” Yurchuck is the support Train now for a rewarding and high-paying career as a and education co-ordinator at people deal with the physical disease,” says Eldred. “And peo- AIDS Niagara. effects of HIV and AIDS. Eldred ple do give up the habit and are Marine Engineer or Navigation Officer “HIV can be a very isolating says because the HIV medication looking for a new life at some disease,” says Rhonda Thompson, makes clients feel nauseated, they time in the future.” At Georgian College in Owen Sound, Ontario, our three-year Marine co-ordinator of AIDS Niagara’s find it difficult to eat. AIDS Nia- Thompson says that Street co-op programs boast a progressive mix of skills training, shipboard Street Works needle exchange pro- gara supplies them with diet sup- Works clients appreciate having training and academic studies. Canadian shipping companies support gram. “We’ll bring people in and plements, such as Ensure and people from the program be these programs by providing a variety of inland and coastal placements bring people together who other- Boost, and vitamins. Local busi- respectful and non-judgmental for cadet work terms, which can lead to employment upon graduation. wise might not get a chance to nesses donate some vitamins and with them. With a worldwide shortage of ships officers, your future job prospects meet each other.” diet supplements, but Yurchuk still “You’re walking into their are unlimited. AIDS Niagara was started in says they are in “desperate” need world and treating people with For more information: 1987 as an advisory committee to of more. “That’s where we need respect. Certainly it’s the begin- the Niagara Regional Public our fundraising dollars to go into,” ning of developing a rapport with Call today: (519) 376-0840, ext. 2062 Health Services to find out more says Eldred. Since government people where they begin to trust or e-mail: [email protected] about the growing problem of funding doesn’t cover the purchase you and want to start talking about Web: www.marinetraining.ca HIV and AIDS in the Niagara of vitamins or diet supplements, things that maybe previous to that area. It received a Trillium grant they especially need vitamins now they’ve never shared with any kind in 1989. In 1990 it obtained core that the cold weather has begun. of service provider before.” funding from the Ontario Min- Eldred points out there are no “Outreach is a fantastic way of istry of Health. In 1991 AIDS medical specialists in Niagara really engaging people and getting Niagara became fully operational dealing with HIV, so AIDS Nia- them the opportunity to be educat- and moved its base from Niagara gara has a volunteer driver pro- ed and modify or change their Falls to St. Catharines. gram in place to take clients to behaviours,” she says. “I think [AIDS Niagara] was Hamilton or Toronto for specialist Education in the community 98% co-op and graduate placement rates! accepted pretty well [when it first appointments. Eldred said that the about HIV and AIDS is another AIDS STATISTICS 38,000,000 Adults infected worldwide 14,000,000 Children orphaned by AIDS 2,300,000 Children infected worldwide " 3,100,000 *'%,0655*' (%#*.433(% ! ! AIDS deaths annually #3''3 -#%'.'/5'/53' "'130.+4'#/'9%+5+/)#/& +/#/%+#-+&((+%' !%/1.,)2%"- (%#"1%%1#%-31%.&3(%4-)5%12)38 '/)#)+/)'91'3+'/%'4#/ 3'/%*'1#35.'/5 %7#)3)-'"-$%-'"')-' .1#.++%'%#+.2%233.8.4 50,000 /)-+4*-#/)6#)'#44+45#/5:06 ')+453#34@((+%' %7/%1)%-#%2"--'+)2( 1#.-3"#33(% Canadian residents with AIDS 8+--803,8+5*#5'#%*'3+/# 3#&6#5' 56&+'4'1#3.'/5 +"-'4"'%"22)23"-38.46)++ /)-+4*'1#3.'/5 1.5)-#)"+..1$)-"3.1 %-#44300.1#355+.'50130.05' 6.1*6)3("3%"#(%1)-" $822%8 1.'1", 4,200 :063-#/)6#)' #/&%6-563'( 3%0/5#%55*' #+"221..,&4++3),%3./1. 411)#4+4,"-$22%22,%-3 307+/%+#-003&+/#503 Canadians infected annually :06#3'##/#&+#/+5+;'/03 ,.3%8.41+"-'4"'% "-$#4+ .+)#81"-#( 1'3.#/'/53'4+&'/5*#7'#5 %%'/5 30)3#. 341%&8.4"1%""-"$)"- 3(+..1 633+%6-6.#/&44'44.'/5 -'#45 0/':'#30(10454'%0/: )3)9%-.1/%1,"-%-31%2) .6"3+.#* 4%%->2 "1* 28,000 0-+%:3#/%* .1.-3. 456&+'4#/&:068#/550803, $%-3("5%"3+%"23 .-%8%"1 Ontario residents with AIDS 5*-003 %+%/(.-% 8+5*456&'/545*'/5*' 08#5-0%, 6''/@4 #3, .&/.232%#.-$"18234$)%2 +4(03:06 030/50 "-$8.46"-33.6.1*6)3( 666,8.$822%8#" 300 '-'1*0/' 234$%-323(%-3(% ! ! ! 888.:#%%'/5%# )2&.18.4 Niagara residents with AIDS " (Statistics courtesy of the Centre for Disease Control, and the World Health Organization) Page 16, news@niagara, Jan. 20, 2006 In print, on line, on air Noise@niagara has found its stride, to Niagara College. occupying three forms of media: a Members from bands featured on page in news@niagara, a college radio noise@niagara will be interviewed broadcast and a web magazine. live in the studio and on the telephone. Noise began as a local music Second-year J-P program student compilation and has evolved into a Ariel Elliott and first-year J-P program project designed to introduce potential student Cody McGraw fans to local bands by providing their provide the Scene Report to inform lis- music and information in a central teners of the concerts happening location, available online. and bands playing in the The weekly broadcast, Noise on Air, Niagara region. co-hosted by Andrew Zuber and Listeners outside of the broadcast Sandor Ligetfalvy, broadcasts live on range can download the show's Hello, Niagara hardcore 90.1 FM (Welland) Tuesdays from 4 previous episodes from the Radio Photo by Ariel Elliott p.m. to 5 p.m. section of the Noise website. By ARIEL ELLIOTT "[We call it] music," says Duncan Minor, 16, Zuber is a second-year student in the The website already features more Staff Writer one of the band's guitarists. "The best part of Broadcasting – Radio, Television and than 25 band articles, with that number This Time Goodbye is known in the area playing is rocking out." Film (BRTF) program. Ligetfalvy is a expanding quickly as more bands are because of an event they deemed "hallway In the near future, the band says they would like student in the Interactive Multimedia being interviewed by students from the hardcore." to record a CD and make a video in a hallway. (Graduate Certificate) program and a J-P program. Students from the BRTF Last Dec. 6, the band, scheduled to play a As a word of advice to any band starting out, graduate of the Journalism-Print (J-P) program are also invited to interview charity show at Welland Centennial High School, Dell says, "Always remember to keep it up and program. bands for Noise on Air. were bumped off the bill after a fire alarm delayed try hard." The online compilation features Log into the online portal for the show's start. "And keep your butts to the wall," says Corey nearly 40 bands from the Niagara interviews an music at this address: They set up in the hallway and played there Hamilton, 19, the bassist. region or who have members who go http://www.newsatniagara.com/noise. between the other bands' sets. This Time Goodbye says they don't have a This Time Goodbye has been together for "about typical audience. three months," says Kurtis Wolek, 19, who "We invented the baby mosh," says Jeremy plays drums. Leclair, 19, who is the keyboardist. For those three months they've played three They say they've formed from kicking people Club connects bands, reporters shows, the one in the hallway, a keg party and one out of other bands and getting kicked out of bands Noise@niagara is booming, so why not join the club? Noise is in the process on Jan. 5 at Red Square in St. Catharines. themselves. of registering with Student Administrative Council Inc. to be an official Niagara Vocalist Matt Dell, 20, says, "We don't expect "We were a fresh start," says Leclair. College club. [our shows] to be perfect. It's about experiences. Hamilton says, "Yes, we are an incestuous band, Membership in the Niagara College Noise Club (NCNC) is open to all Niagara "We don't really call [what we play] anything." incest being the key word here." College students. The club's purpose is to organize members to support Noise's goals: organize interviews for web, print and radio from a list of 45 local bands; maintain the multimedia content on the website; and plan and organize community-focused charity concerts such as the food drives on Dec. 11 at Patrick Sheehan's Irish Pub Noise organizes second food drive and Jan. 13 at Red Square in St. Catharines. Members of the NCNC should have the ability to contribute to print, radio By ARIEL ELLIOTT broadcast or web production. Students studying other disciplines are also Staff Writer encouraged to join to provide their point of view to noise@niagara. On Jan. 13 noise@niagara held its second The executive structure has been selected. President is Sandor Ligetfalvy, a charity concert. Journalism-Print program graduate and a student in the Interactive Multimedia Held at Red Square in St. Catharines, it (Graduate Certificate) program. Vice-president is Ariel Elliott. Secretary/treasur- featured four bands from the area: A Primetime er is Kate Jefferies. Both are second-year students in the Journalism-Print Tragedy, When Words Fail, The Definition of program. Collapse and Sever the Nile. The next NCNC meeting is on Monday, Jan. 30. Check next Friday's edition of "It was our first show, and we were by far news@niagara for room location. happier with this show than most of the others I've played in the past with other bands," says Bryan Mason, the guitarist from Sever the Nile. The show was meant to bring in canned food NOISE on college station 90.1 FM the New Heat for St. Catharines and Thorold Community Care. A few boxfuls of food were collected. Noise on Air made its debut broadcast Tuesday, Jan. 17. "I am so impressed at the amount of people Hosted by Niagara College students Andrew Zuber and Sandor Ligetfalvy, who showed up to donate to charity," says Jesse this week’s broadcast featured “Get Well Soon” wishes for The Marantz Webb, the former singer of When Words Fail. Project’s keyboardist Craig Meuser and a live-in-studio interview with Steve That band played its last show with Webb and and James from Groovy Food. their old drummer, Mark Whipple. Every week Noise correspondents bring the Scene Report at 20 minutes past "I would like to add a big thanks on behalf of the hour. Mark Whipple and myself to those who came out Ty DuPuis, of A Primetime Tragedy, screams at Next week: St. Catharines rapper Anubis 5 will be on the telephone to discuss to our last show with When Words Fail," Noise’s food drive concert at Red Square on his upcoming shows. says Webb. Jan. 13. The show airs Tuesday, 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Russ Wood, When Words Fail's guitarist, says, "I enjoyed seeing the people that the music is Photo by Ariel Elliott influencing rocking hard and supporting." Official website re-launched as web magazine Ty DuPuis, A Primetime Tragedy's singer, says, getting into a ton of trouble." "Thanks goes out to [noise@niagara] for putting Noise@niagara is planning a third charity Noise’s official website was re-launched on Sunday, Jan. 15. something on like this. It's really a positive force show for the first week of February. Check the Designed by Sandor Ligetfalvy, 22, Interactive Multimedia (Graduate Certifi- in the Niagara region and a great place for local next edition of news@niagara for more cate) program student after learning a few new tricks in the post-graduate kids to come together for a good time without information. program, the new website makes it easier for visitors to be introduced to the bands. news@niagara, Jan. 20, 2006 Page 17 Million Little Pieces, looking from inside the bottle By AMANDA STREET The way Frey writes his memoir is captivating. It is simple of many people who have read this book. Television talk- Staff Writer but effective. show host Oprah Winfrey made it part of her book club after Book Review His grammar is terrible, but that isn’t the point of this claiming that it kept her up for two nights. The book made Imagine waking up on a plane one day, not knowing how memoir. He breaks every grammar rule at least twice, but its way to the top of the New York Times bestseller list. you got there or what occurred in the days before. There’s a still creates something so beautiful it was hard to put down. If you’re not a fan of cursing and vulgarity, I suggest you hole in your cheek, your teeth are smashed in and you feel It is also hard to read at times, because his pain is very real. leave the book on the shelf, but if they doesn’t bother, you incredibly sick. Although I have never been a drug addict or an alcoholic, this book is well worth a read. This is what happened to James Frey, the author of A this book touched me and rang real for me. It is about over- It is a love story, a hate story, a tragic story and a story of Million Little Pieces. The book starts here and then follows coming something that controls you and having the courage someone struggling to live. his painful stay in rehab. to choose yourself. The book was real for me because, in a way, we all have Frey was addicted to alcohol and pretty much any form of Frey has now been sober for over 10 years, and his recovery something controlling us. In order to really live, we must drug he could come across. He started drinking at the age of was on his own terms. He chose not to let it control him any first conquer what traps us. Frey motivates the reader to take 10 until, at the age of 23, he was faced with the choice of longer. control and do whatever is needed to keep that something either dying or staying sober. A Million Little Pieces has gripped and changed the lives from getting control again. Simply unravelling Pull my finger: Bowser and Blue By AMANDA STREET Golden does an incredible job telling By ELISABETH BAILEY Staff Writer the story of how a vulnerable young Staff Writer Book Review girl blossoms into an incredible Review A true Geisha can stop a man in woman. For a man to be able to jump Many have to endure the specific brand of his tracks with just one stare. inside the head of a Geisha in training humour called “dad-humour.” People witness This is a lesson Sayuri must learn and tell her story with such sensitivity theirs fathers telling awkward, lame jokes and in order to become a Geisha, in the amazes me. have to suffer the embarrassment. It may be novel Memoirs of a Geisha by Geisha have been thought of as corny puns, inappropriate allusions to subject Arthur Golden. prostitutes, but that perception is a matter that you’d rather pretend a man that age Stripped from her home and sold myth. Geisha are artists, dancers and doesn’t even know about, or the extension of by her ailing father, Sayuri must singers. There are some aspects to that middle-aged finger, ripe for the pulling, to grow up quickly. The first half of the them that can lead one to think of them an unsuspecting victim. book covers her training and school- as prostitutes, but they are sold only to Now imagine all that done by two men, for Bowser and Blue, a musical comedy duo, ing. You feel for this poor young one man. two hours and put to music. have been performing since 1978. girl, stripped of everything she The novel opened my eyes to the Bowser and Blue took the stage at the Sean Photo by Elisabeth Bailey knows and forced into terrible world of the Geisha and what Japan O’Sullivan theatre on Nov. 30 at Brock Uni- presence of fart jokes and sounds in the chores. was like during the world war eras. versity in St. Catharines. They are George show far more than I was. She has her ups and her downs, just This historical fiction work is writ- Bowser and Rick Blue, a musical comedy duo My lips may have barely twitched into a like any other fictional heroine, but her ten with so much imagery you feel who have been performing together since smile during the show, but that was not the story is told beautifully, from the way as if you are in Japan, living the 1978. case with the predominantly older audience. Sayuri’s sensational grey eyes are same world as Sayuri. According to their website, An almost completely sustained howling described to the colours and patterns on You feel her pain, her joy, her love http://www.bowserandblue.com, they are laugher filled the theatre, interrupted only by the kimonos. and her losses. Prime Minister Paul Martin’s favourite band. thunderous applause. What I thought were I wasn’t too swayed by the high recommendation. old, tired jokes, the audience found It was apparent, though it should have absolutely outrageous and hilarious. already been with a sea of white-haired I do recommend seeing Bowser and Blue if ‘06 looking good for gala heads filling the seats, by the time they you’re planning a night out with a parent or started singing about the beauty of male- grandparent. I’m sure that they, especially the By JENNIFER GIBBONS Teahen said the decision about pattern baldness, that this was not a show finger-pulling dads, will be entertained, and Staff Writer which plays are scheduled at which intended to tickle the funny bone of my age you will not be too bored. Even if the jokes are A new season begins for the theaters is up to the artistic director, as demographic. not your cup of tea, you can enjoy the vocal largest classical repertory theatre in he has the final decision about the The audience favourites were likely “Top and musical delivery, which is outstanding. North America. playbill. The artistic director consults Ten Things Your Wife Would Never Say” and There is no disputing the excellent musician- Great repertory theater is upon us many people, including directors, on “Top Ten Things Your Husband Would Never ship of these performers. as the Stratford Festival of Canada which venue is best suited to the Say,” although the most-recognized number by Bald may be beautiful, but Bowser and is back for another round with the plays. the audience was Working Where The Sun Blue are in no danger of replacing of rock release of its 2006 calendar guide. “We’re excited for the 2006 season, as Don’t Shine (The Colorectal Surgeon’s Song). bands with their luscious, asymmetrically cut A repertory theatre is one that Colm Feore is returning to the festival There was some irony in how the mature hair as the preferred live entertainment of plays more than one show daily at and we are looking forward to his audience was entertained by the heavy college students. different times, said Kelley Teahen, return,” said Teahen. media manager for the Stratford Seasonally, 1,000 people are Festival of Canada. employed at the festival with contracts “The actors have a chance to play of varying lengths. These jobs include more than one role. It can be anyone from ushers to bartenders, she At Niagara College, we’re all a great big happy family! demanding for the actor. It’s also explained. challenging way to run a theatre.” All works at the festival are original. The advantage of this festival and Costumes and sets are built in Strat- the way it’s run is there is a better ford. opportunity to see more than one There are four theatres in Strat- play, said Teahen. ford, which will all be staging dif- The festival places an emphasis on ferent plays: theatre, classical and contemporary The Festival Theatre will present repertoire, with a special emphasis on Much Ado About Nothing and Oliver!; William Shakespeare, according to The Avon Theatre will be hosting Don the mandate outlined on www.strat- Juan and The Glass Menagerie; The fordfestival.ca. Tom Patterson Theater will be pre- The festival runs from mid-April senting Henry IV, Part 1 and Ghosts; to early November. and the Studio Theatre will be the The 2005 season just finished, and venue for The Liar and The Blonde, the revenue will not be announced the Brunette, and the Vengeful Red- until later this year, said Teahen. head. A new trend of when people buy These are just a few of the plays tickets appeared this past season. In being presented at the four theatres. prior years, tickets were bought in Tom Patterson, a journalist born advance, but this year the tickets in Stratford, started the festival in were purchased closer to the show’s 1953. ACE Niagara members are shown along with alumni, faculty advisers and staff from the performance date, said Teahen. The festival, according to the International Department of Niagara College. See related story on page 1. “Sales were down but picked up website, generates a $170-million Photo by Natasha Menezes during the summer. It was a great annual economic impact on the success.” community. Page 18, news@niagara, Jan., 20, 2006 Dukes of Hazzard Give cult classics second chance promotes Jessica By NATALIE VENTRESCA viewers to decide whether or not they like fans where they have established a Staff Writer them. platform to discuss the film in detail. Simpson instead Movie Review These films are not the victims of hype Unfortunately, over the years, the Everybody deserves a second generated by the movie industry, so when cult film has been appropriated by chance, even movies. Not every Holly- viewers finds them in video stores, the mainstream media. of remake wood movie is a box-office smash movies are their own discovery. With Henderson says he finds that “many By NATALIE VENTRESCA grossing millions of dollars worldwide. quotable lines and a cast of memorable char- companies now attempt to market films Staff Writer Some movies are released, receive lit- acters, cult films become much more than a as instant cult classics, as so often cult Movie Review tle success or lukewarm reviews and movie. They become a passion for fans. films have a lower-than-average budget, quietly enter video store oblivion. Although mainstream Hollywood so a cult audience can mean a higher Poor Seann William Scott and Johnny Knoxville! These movies typically don’t succeed has turned its back on these films, they profit margin.” You can’t help but feel sorry for them in The Dukes upon their initial release because they are have the ability to overcome this “Blockbuster films may have huge of Hazzard, new in video stores, because this movie acts anti-establishment, unusual, quirky, out- exclusion and ignite in fans what audience numbers, but as they cost so simply as a vehicle for Jessica Simpson, a mediocre rageous, particularly not mainstream and, www.filmsite.org describes as a “fiery much to make and market, they can still pop/reality star at best, and a car, an orange Dodge in some cases, so bad that they are good. intense passion in devoted fans.” Many be unprofitable.” Charger called the General Lee. Some movies get a second life in cult films cause fans to enthusiastical- Henderson also states that “the era Scott and Knoxville have successful careers in Holly- video store rentals or sales and take on ly champion them, leading to midnight of DVD and video has really changed wood and are recognized as comedic actors, yet all the a life of their own with a dedicated fan screenings, audience participation, fan the nature of cult film as well.” publicity and the majority of the film itself rests with base. These are cult movies. clubs and repetitive viewings. He explains that many films, such as Simpson and the General Lee. Scott and Knoxville are Scott Henderson, 39, a communica- Perhaps the most well-known cult film Napoleon Dynamite, do not need a major accessories, when it should really be the other way around. tions, popular culture and film lecturer at is The Rocky Horror Picture Show, which theatrical release, “but gain notoriety and When there are not sequences of Simpson shamelessly Brock University in St. Catharines, adds Henderson identifies as “one of the all- earn money based on word-of-mouth and flaunting her body in clothing that would fit a 12-year old that a cult movie is “a film whose reputa- time greats,” exemplifying the “older style DVD sales and rentals.” girl or what seems like endless sequences of the General tion grows via word of mouth, often in of cult film by having a lousy first run There are an astonishing number of Lee weaving through traffic, flying off bridges or being ways counter to its initial intended before going onto great success in second- cult films today. Just to pick 10 is a chal- chased by the police, the dialogue between Knoxville and marketing.” run theatres and midnight screenings.” lenging and stressing task, but those cho- Scott is hilarious. This witty repartee is what holds this Cult films are particularly interest- It is an excellent example of how far sen here are significant as they touch film together. ing because they are defined by their cult fans will go for their favourite upon many genres and fan bases. For those not interested in extended car chase audience. movie. Fans dress up as characters of The term “cult” might have negative sequences or Simpson, Scott and Knoxville, as Bo and They encompass various genres such the film for midnight screenings, connotations, as it implies some kind Luke Duke, save the movie from being dull. The plot as science fiction, horror, comedy, where they bring props such as water of strange religious worship, but there — the Duke cousins trying to save Hazzard County melodrama and action. They also have guns, rice and glow sticks. In addition, is nothing strange or remotely negative from being taken over by the local bad guy, Boss Hogg special appeal because it is up to the there are numerous websites created by about being a cult film enthusiast. (Burt Reynolds) — is one that is not only familiar, but weak. Reservoir Dogs (1992, Quentin Tarantino) However, the plot does not matter. Viewers have to 10 This stylish, funny and violent debut film from director Quentin Tarantino tells the understand that they are not going to see Oscar-worthy story of a robbery gone wrong through such cinematic elements as flashbacks and individual performances or be moved by the characters. sequences that fully explore the film’s characters. With an incredible cast, including This movie simply entertains. It’s just a movie with an Harvey Keitel and Steve Buscemi, in addition to an amazing soundtrack, Reservoir attractive cast, dirty humour, fast cars and a cool sound- Dogs is unlike any other film. Who knew a violent film about robbery could be track. made so stylishly? Dazed and Confused (1993, Richard Linklater) 9 With such memorable characters as Randal “Pink” Floyd and Slater and dia- logue like “George Washington was in a cult, and the cult was into aliens, man,” Dazed and Confused, about the last day of school in 1976, still resonates as it deals with relatable adolescent issues. Partying, stressing about the future and friendships are issues humourously explored, making this film unforgettable. Empire Records (1995, Allan Moyle) 8“Damn the Man. Save the Empire.” When a large music chain attempts to buy Empire Records, a small independent music store, its employees will stop at nothing to save it, and, in the process, learn a lot more about each other. A Clockwork Orange (1971, Stanley Kubrick) 7 Visually stunning but at the same time quite graphic for its time, A Clockwork Orange, is, as writer Steven Paul Davies suggests, a “celluloid celebration of adrenaline and testosterone.” Alex, an individual who participates in violence and rapes, finds himself in the state’s hands as a subject in a brainwashing experiment designed to remove violent offenders from the streets. Look past the violence and see that this film also explores ideas of freedom of the individual and the role of the establishment. Blade Runner (1982, Ridley Scott) 6 A bleak vision of the future, Blade Runner tells the story of a blade runner (Harrison Ford), who is forced out of retirement to destroy four escaped replicants (androids). Hunting for the repli- cants, he falls in love with Rachel (Sean Young), who happens to be a replicant herself. Mixing sci-fi, film noir, action and drama, this film was ahead of its time upon its release and is now one of the most influential sci-fi films of all time. Mad Max (1979, George Miller) 5 Nothing says cult film more than a futuristic revenge movie. With fast-paced and experi- mental editing, this obviously low-budget film distinguishes itself from other action films of 905-788-9474 this era by creating a chaotic world by utilizing elements from a variety of film genres such as the horror, sci-fi, road and cop movies. Clerks (1994, Kevin Smith) 4 Shot in black and white, this film looks at a day in the life of a convenience store clerk and his best friend, who works next door, and the bizarre assortment of customers they encounter. Also don’t hesitate to check out other Kevin Smith cult films such as Chasing Amy and Mallrats. Then you will understand why Smith is regarded as a cult figure. Swingers (1996, Doug Limann) 3“You’re so money.” When Mike (Vince Vaughn) can’t get over his breakup with his girl- friend, his friends, including Trent (writer Jon Favreau), an “expert” on the Los Angeles dat- ing scene, try to make him forget her by getting him back on the L.A. social scene. There are no explosions, no car chases and yet this film works because of its charisma and witty repar- tee. Donnie Darko (2001, Richard Kelly) 2A disturbingly dark tale about Donnie Darko (Jake Gyllenhaal), a boy who is plagued by visions of a rabbit named Frank, who orders him to commit acts of violence that will change his destiny and those of others around him. A very complex film, for some, Donnie Darko might need multiple viewings to comprehend everything that is happening. Evil Dead (1982, Sam Raimi) 1Five friends spending the weekend in a remote cabin encounter unspeakable evil when they discover The Book of the Dead. Mix humour with gore and add a pinch of suspense and you get an originally creative film that has spawned numerous sequels. news@niagara, Jan. 20, 2006, Page 19 Bridesmaids, beware Real-life story full of heart, basketball - Entertainment By NATALIE VENTRESCA By NATALIE VENTRESCA by these men on and off the this story to the screen, as few Staff Writer Staff Writer basketball court. Set in the are familiar with it. Movie Review Movie Review racially tense 1960s, this film “I think this is an especially Fact: A single woman at a wedding is extremely Heart, determination, drive, explores the segregation and important story to tell today susceptible to male guests’ advances as a result of the discipline, teamwork and an inequality that many individu- because a lot of kids no longer romance in the air. intensive will to succeed - these als faced and how they were realize how hard the players and Fact: Men, understanding this and typically moti- are extraordinary characteristics overcome. coaches in the 60s had to fight vated by alcohol, take advantage of the previous fact. for one to have, but they are espe- As was stated in a press to bring them the incredible Wedding Crashers, new to video stores, takes these cially more relevant when all the release, Haskins’ decision to opportunities that exists now.” two facts and creates a memorable and hilarious odds are stacked against you. play an all African-American Telling this inspirational movie that keeps the audience laughing long after the Walt Disney Pictures, in associ- starting lineup and the team’s story with the combination of credits have appeared and keeps them talking about it ation with Jerry Bruckheimer ultimate success “helped shift authenticity, humour and long afterwards. Films, brings to the screen the national perception of heart, Glory Road introduces The film centres on two friends, John (Owen Wil- inspirational real-life story of Don African-American athletes a wider audience to Haskins son) and Jeremy (Vince Vaughn), who, guided by Haskins (played by Josh Lucas, and bring about the wide- and his team’s incredible their “rules,” crash weddings with the intention of Stealth, Sweet Home Alabama), a spread desegregation of col- actions, which changed the picking up single women. college basketball coach who lege sports.” In addition, this game of basketball forever. As The plot is deceiving and might turn off some made history when he was the desegregation of sports director James Gartner states, female viewers, but it’s far from being simply a “guy first to have an all African-Amer- “helped to spread greater “Just as Jackie Robinson movie.” Interestingly, this film cannot be simply ican starting lineup who became equality throughout American broke the colour barrier in labeled a “comedy” because it incorporates numerous champions of the 1966 NCAA society.” baseball, in many ways Don genres. Although it is a “raunchy comedy,” it is also tournament title. Producer Jerry Bruckheimer Haskins and his team did the part “buddy movie” and surprisingly a “chick flick.” Glory Road is not simply a (Pirates of the Caribbean, Pearl same for basketball.” It caters to both a male and a female audience, a feat basketball film. It explores Harbor) stated in a press release Glory Road opened in the- that not many comedies of this nature do. the challenges that were faced that he was “thrilled” to bring atres Jan. 13. In the new release aisles filled with mediocre remakes and biographies, this film sticks out as being a superior comedy in an otherwise dull selection. Newest horror movie Hostel a joke, not a scream By AMY ZULINIAK way. A fellow traveller brings says, “I was impressed with the Crashing 101 Staff Writer them to a hostel in an out-of-the- acting. It was almost believable. Put yourself in a picture that proves you’re some Movie Review way town. The two friends arrive Usually they get beautiful idiots 1 type of hero. This site provides you with the For all moviegoers anticipating and soon meet two exotic beau- to play in horror movies.” choice of an adventurer, a soldier or a sports Hostel to be another scarefest like ties. Their very American atti- The majority of the movie is set hero. Ladies love a hero! Saw, sorry, guys. tudes towards women will prove in the hostel, with a lone chair in Say a few words at the reception so no one It’s undeniable that this disastrous. the centre of the room. Without Deal Reel The 2 knows you are a crasher. This site offers tips for movie had the potential to be “I went into the movie expect- giving too much away, instru- all brave enough to attempt a speech. terrifying. How could you ing to get scared, but on the con- ments capable of inflicting think otherwise? Written and trary I spent the entire movie unimaginable amounts of pain Crasher Rule No. 8 : “You love animals and chil- directed by Eli Roth (Cabin choking on popcorn from laugh- hang on the walls. Yada, yada, 3 dren,” and children love balloon animals. This Fever) and presented by ing so hard. This movie was hys- yada. It’s very bloody and violent site offers a step-by-step explanation of how to Quentin Tarantino (Kill Bill), terical,” says Matt Feeney, 22 of with lots of gore as well as sex make a balloon animal. Once a woman sees this, this movie would still have St. Catharines. and nudity. This is a film not for she’ll be putty in your hands. been great if people weren’t It was by no means star stud- the young nor the squeamish. This site reminds first-time crashers to never expecting a scary horror flick. ded, but some familiar faces “It wasn’t fantastic, but I 4 improvise while crashing a wedding. It offers a This film unfortunately left graced the screen. Jay Hernandez enjoyed it. There were by far look into Chazz Reingold’s book, How to Crash audiences confused. (Crazy/Beautiful) and Derek some of the grossest scenes I have Weddings, to learn the secret rules of wedding Two American college buddies Richardson (Dumb and Dumber- ever seen in a movie,” says Tania crashing, including Rule No. 63: No chicken backpack through Europe eager er) starred, while Eythor Gudjon- Williams, 20, of Hamilton, Ont. dancing. No exceptions. to experience what the country sson and Barbara Nedeljakova I expected a horror flick, but has to offer with new friend Oli, made their feature film debuts. got a comedy. Nonetheless, it was From www.weddingcrashersmovie.com an Icelander they meet along the Karen Bristol, 32, of Welland, enjoyable. New in theatres What’s opening TUNE in... and TURN it up! this weekend . Underworld: Evolution (Len Wiseman) Hostage The war between vampires and werewolves continues in – a this second instalment starring laughing Kate Bekinsale. The legacy of matter both are revealed, in addition to the characters’ personal histo- ries. If you’re a fan of action, Glory drama, fantasy and horror, this Check the next edition of news@niagara Road – a film has you covered. basketball Match Point (Woody Allen) story with If vampires are not your style, heart try this Woody Allen film on for size. for a full listings of this semester’s shows About a former tennis pro who falls for his rival’s girl- Get friend, this movie oozes drama. ready to Going to the movies? Listen to us live 24/7 say “I Check out The Reel Deal broadcasting.niagarac.on.ca “Niagara’s hottest Mix” do” to next week for more movie Wedding reviews to see if they’re Crashers worth your while. Page 20, news@niagara, Jan. 20, 2006 Another loss for Niagara’s Knights Welland Canadians fighting for top spot Team showed ‘lack of discipline’ By JEFF FORAN were rewarded just over three minutes Sports Staff Writer into the third. The Welland Jr. Canadians skated to Joe Aitken banged in his eighth of their ninth loss of the season, losing the year on a rebound that David 4-1 to the sixth place Port Colborne Bentley put off the right post, and the Sailors Sunday night in Welland. game was back on. The game had a slow start in the first The optimism that Welland was on What’s period, which was equally filled by its way to pull a comeback win penalties by the Port Colborne evaporated when Kerry Barchan, left going on in Sailors and Welland Jr. Canadians and alone in the slot, put a one-timer past the World peaked with Sailors captain Mike Pribanich from a Gary Welsh pass Armstrong receiving a gross miscon- from behind the net. of Sports duct and being ejected from the game. The goal would kill off the game and Welland’s Jesse Bedard says send the fans home early. Armstrong’s outburst and subsequent Aucoin would add his second of the restraint by a linesman was “more of a night on an empty-net goal with a laugh. It was stupidity on his part.” minute remaining in the match. The Sailors came out to play in the It was the first loss for Bedard since second period popping home a goal 12 he took over as captain of the Jr. minutes into the frame while Canadians two games ago. shorthanded. Bedard says they had a “lack of Daniel Hannigan-Daley broke in on discipline” in the 4-1 loss. “They the Welland goal on a two on one and (Sailors) played a better game all scored a beautiful snap shot around.” New Niagara Knights point guard Steven Chan, a Fanshawe College that found the top right corner of the Former captain and Niagara College graduate, shares a laugh with strength coach Tony Ferrussi at team prac- net. student Trevor Willis left the team and Port Colborne would double their now plays for the Grimsby Peach tice. lead late in the second. Kings in Jr. C. Photo by Michael McClymont Hannigan-Daley fought the puck “It was a mutual agreement,” says By MICHAEL McCLYMONT away from a Jr. Canadian along the Marc Tardiff, general manager of presence they’ve desperately been Staff Write Niagara boards at centre ice, skated down the Welland. r seeking. The Niagara College men’s “The biggest addition was getting Knights right wing and made a The team made no big deals at the great pass to Jason Aucoin, who then trade deadline, with Adam Shoof, of basketball team is second in its Steven Chan at the point,” says Men’s division of the Ontario Collegiate Head Coach Ralph Nero. “He’s a basketball deked out Welland goaltender Mike the Oakville Blades, being their only Pribanich and slid the puck into the new signing. Athletic Association (OCAA). three-year pro and was with team preview right corner. “It’s hard to get new players,” says Niagara has a record of six wins and Fanshawe when they won the The score could have been Tardiff. “We have a good team now. three defeats. championship.” significantly greater for the Sailors, There’s nothing better than what we However, it appears it will be a All the weapons are there, but don’t however. already had.” four-horse race until the end of the award Niagara the division title just Kerry Barchan was robbed on a Bedard says he was “very surprised” season, with the Niagara Knights in yet. Along with having to breakaway by Pribanich, to be named the new captain. the thick of the race. incorporate three new, yet rusty, Hannigan-Daley hit the crossbar with a “We have a ton of leaders on the Niagara began the second half of the players that have but a few practices rocket of a shot and the Sailors also team. Everyone leads the team. season defeating St. Clair College in under their belt, the Knights’ three had a goal disallowed as the referee We[’ve] got a good core. We[’ve] got a Windsor on Jan. 13. leading scorers are recovering ruled the puck had not entirely crossed good team here.” The Knights lead the OCAA West from injuries suffered before the break. the goal line. The Jr. Canadians are back in action Division. The problem is that two other With Chris Bauslaugh, Michael The Jr. Canadians came out in the tonight in Niagara Falls to play the teams are right behind them. The Muir and Anderson St. Valle as close to third with a greater intensity and Canucks. Fanshawe Falcons, of London, 100 per cent as they may get, the and the Sault Cougars, of Sault Ste. potential is there. Welland Jr. Marie, are 5-2, and the St. Clair Saints “The biggest problem is chemistry. Canadians of Windsor own a 5-1 record. The reality is we don’t practice lose 4 – 1 Niagara leads with 12 points. hard enough,” said Nero in an effort to The West Division has always been get through to his troops. “In each competitive, with four different phase of the game, there’s gonna be champions in five years. one group that’s gonna click Sault College took the division last and it may be a different group every year. St. Clair won in the 2003-2004 game.” season. Niagara’s most recent Niagara began their post-break division championship was in home schedule with an exhibition 2002-2003, and Fanshawe was game against Genesee Community victorious in the 2000-2001 season. College of Batavia, N.Y. Niagara resumed league play last The exhibition gave the week with a few more weapons in their Knights roster a chance to mesh in an arsenal. Former Brock University otherwise meaningless game. basketball players Dustin Muir led the Knights with 20 Bianchin and Ryan Walker joined the points in the contest, and Walker Knights during the Christmas break. added 16 in a hard-fought 88-76 loss. So did Steven Chan, a transfer from Niagara remains winless against London’s Fanshawe College. New York teams in exhibitions; Bianchin, from Niagara Falls, however, if the Knights continue played 22 games in his second year to have a winning record in with the Brock Badgers and league games, they’ll more than averaged 15 minutes a game and take it. 3.7 rebounds. Walker, from “We’re gonna do nice. We got Hamilton, played in 21 games in Dustin, Walker and we got a point Welland Jr. Canadians forward Steve Wong fights off Port Colborne his second year and averaged guard now,” said an excited Bauslaugh Sailors defenceman Paul Sotola in front of goaltender Andrew Duncan. nearly four points a game in his after the exhibition game. Coach Nero 11.5 minutes of averaged floor time shared Bauslaugh’s sentiments. The Sailors came away with a 4-1 victory in Welland Sunday night. at the interuniversity level. Chan, “We’re gonna be a very, very deep Photo by Takahide Eguchi the Fanshawe graduate, gives basketball team. You just need a little Niagara the point guard luck. news@niagara, Jan. 20, 2006, Page 21 Sports gambling is a booming business Sports ‘I think that the thrill of winning makes people want to gamble’ By PAUL FROSINA sports events. football, with hockey coming or basket. It’s just an unbe- because they have literally Staff Writer A random survey taken in second at 13 per cent. lievable feeling,” says bet everything to try to get Gambling has blown up around the campus by 112 “Most people find football Boscariol. out of debt. Should the gov- around the world like an people shows 67 per cent of more entertaining when there With so much money going ernment allow legalized atomic bomb, and with the those people polled have at is money on the game. to sports gambling, some sports gambling such as the release of the movie Two for one time or another placed a “You want a team to win by people say that it is not good types you find at the local . the Money, people are begin- bet either on Pro Line, Point a certain amount to cover the for society. convenience store? ning to ask how many people Spread or Pro Picks or point spread, but not score Many people are so caught “I don’t think that it is a big wager money on sporting through a bookie. However, too many points to mess up up in it that they don’t care deal. It’s like drinking alco- events every week. out of that 67 per cent, only your over/under,” says Pat how much money they lose hol. You have to control how There can obviously be no 32 per cent say they gamble Hall, 21, of Hamilton, Ont. each week or each day and much you consume because it exact number when it comes on a regular basis. That brings us to one of the can’t stop. could take over your life if to calculating exactly how “I think that the thrill of bigger issues: Why do people There is always the belief you’re not careful,” says much money is spent on winning makes people want gamble on sporting events that you could win on any Anouchka Milliat, 17, from sports gambling a year. How- to gamble. There is always a when there is a good chance game at any time, but the Antigua Island. ever, best estimates show that chance that you are going to that they are going to lose? harsh reality is that you could Sports gambling has $200 billion changes hands win,” says Steve Boscariol, “The rush that you get lose everything. grown over the past decade each year. It raises the ques- 19, from Kitchener, Ont. when watching a game that Some people have lost their and is becoming as much a tion of how many people in When asked what sport you have money on is amaz- homes and all possessions. part of sports as the game the Niagara region and sur- they usually bet on, 73 per ing. You are into every play, Wives have taken children itself, and it looks as though rounding areas gamble on cent of people polled said goal, touchdown, field goal and left their husbands it is here to stay. UPCOMING GAMES Men’s Volleyball Games Jan. 20 Algonquin at Georgian, 9 p.m. What’s Canadore at George Brown, 8 p.m. going on in Jan. 21 La Cite at Georgian, 8 p.m. Algonquin at Loyalist, 6 p.m. the World Canadore at Mohawk, 2 p.m. of Sports Jan. 22 La Cite at Loyalist, 5 p.m. Jan. 25 Durham at Trent, 8 p.m. Georgian at Seneca, 8 p.m. Men’s Volleyball Men’s Basketball Humber at Fanshawe, 8 p.m. Mohawk at Niagara, 8 p.m. Team Gp W L GW GL +/- Pts Team Gp W L Pf Pa +/- Pts Central East Central Division Men’s Basketball Games Durham Humber Jan. 20 Humber at Sheridan, 7:30 p.m. Seneca Sheridan Loyalist at St. Lawrence K, 7:30 p.m. Georgian George Brown Niagara at Redeemer, 8 p.m. Sports Cambrian Georgian Jan. 22 gambling Boreal Centennial Cambrian at Fleming P, 2 p.m. Central West Division Seneca Jan. 24 George Brown at Sheridan, 7:30 p.m. Mohawk East Division Jan. 25 Seneca at Georgian, 8 p.m. Nipissing Algonquin Centennial at Humber, 8 p.m. Humber Durham Fanshawe at Redeemer, 8 p.m. Canadore St/ Lawrence Sheridan Fleming P Jan. 27 Georgian at Centennial, 8 p.m. East Division Loyalist Seneca at Georger Brown, 8 p.m. Loyalist La Cite St. Lawrence K at Durham, 8 p.m. Algonquin Cambrian La Cite at Loyalist, 8 p.m. Trent West Division Fanshawe at Lambton, 8 p.m La Cite St/Clair Fleming P Sault Women’s Basketball Games West Division Niagara OCAA Fanshawe Fanshawe Jan. 20 Loyalist at St. Lawrence K, 5:30 p.m. Standings Niagara Mohawk Humber at Durham, 6 p.m. St/Clair Lambton Niagara at Redeemer, 6 p.m. Redeemer Redeemer Jan. 24 Humber at Loyalist, 6 p.m. G/ Brown Algoma Jan. 25 Seneca at Georgian, 6 p.m. Women’s Volleyball Women’s Basketball Fanshawe at Redeemer, 6 p.m. Jan. 27 St. Lawrence K at Durham, 6 p.m. Team Gp W L GW GL +/- Pts Team Gp W L Pf Pa +/- Pts St. Clair at Sheridan, 7:30 p.m. Central East Division East Division Seneca Seneca Jan. 28 St. Lawrence K at Fleming P, 1 p.m. Durham Humber St. Clair at Mohawk, 2 p.m. Cambrian Algonquin Algoma at Sheridan, 7:30 p.m. Georgian Durham Boreal Georgian Women’s Volleyball Games Upcoming Central West Division George Brown Jan. 20 Algonquin at Georgian, 7 p.m. games Nipissing St/ Lawrence Jan. 21 Canadore at Mohawk, noon Humber Loyalist Mohawk Fleming P Algonquin at Loyalist, 4 p.m. Sheridan La Cite at Georgian, 6 p.m. Canadore West Division Jan. 22 La Cite at Loyalist, 3 p.m. East Division Niagara Jan. 24 Canadore at Sault, 6 p.m. Algonquin St/Clair Jan. 25 Humber at Fanshawe, 6 p.m. Fanshawe Trent Mohawk at Niagara, 6 p.m. Loyalist Mohawk La Cite Sheridan Georgian at Seneca, 6 p.m. Fleming P Algoma Durham at Trent, 6 p.m. West Division Redeemer Jan. 26 Loyalist at Fleming P, 6 p.m. Niagara Jan. 27 Fanshawe at Lambton, 6 p.m. Fanshawe Nipissing at Mohawk, 6 p.m. Redeemer news@niagara publishes St. Clair at Redeemer, 6 p.m. St/Clair Boreal at Algonquin, 7 p.m. Sault next on Jan. 27, 2006 Lambton Sault at Humber, 8 p.m. Page 22, news@niagara, Jan. 20, 2006 Bowl for Kids’ Sake Bowl-a-thon High school Bailey supports Big Brothers Big Sisters students and By KATHERINE GRIGGS national spokesperson. This is the first time a “These children are Staff Writer celebrity is involved with the event. literally our future” he Tim Hortons is joining the list of sponsors On hand for the event launch on Jan. 12 in added. college life for the Bowl for Kids’ Sake Bowl-a-thon, St. Catharines was Bruce MacDonald, presi- Mayors of Niagara By SHERI WEBBER 2006 helping to shape a great year for Big dent and chief executive officer of Big Falls and St. Staff Writer Brothers Big Sisters (BBS) of the Brothers Big Sisters, as the honorary host of Catharines are lend- We’re reaching out to our prospec- Niagara Region. the morning. ing their support and challeng- tive students with information and Tim Hortons, with fellow sponsor Meridian “The need (for big brothers and sisters) has ing other regional mayors to get involved. help in financing their college tuition. Credit Union, presented BBS with $10,000 never been more prevalent,” said During the next six weeks, people are being Niagara region high schools’ stu- toward this year’s goal of $250,000. MacDonald. He stressed the importance of encouraged to get involved and support the dents will be exposed to college life, TV Cogeco, Channel 10, is lending its sup- community support and that “positive adults organization. There are still over 450 children through news@niagara. port by encouraging people to participate. It in the lives of our youths can make a world of waiting for a mentor in their lives. News@niagara will publish seven will run a series of vignettes explaining the difference.” MacDonald says, “When you’re a big editions over 10 weeks as the Journal- various programs that Big Brothers Big Sis- Jim Bradley, MPP St. Catharines, remarked, brother or sister, it’s not about buying their ism-Print program reporters work hard ters offer. “It is a privilege to be at an event of this kind.” affection or taking them to extraordinary to give you the news, events, sports This year, athlete sprinter Donovan Bailey He stressed the importance of everything that places. It’s about just giving them someone to and entertainment coverage of events will be joining Big Brothers Big Sisters as the Big Brothers Big Sisters does across Canada. look up to and to count on. at Niagara College and in the community. For high school students, decisions on career paths and educational pur- Food, fun and entertainment during Winterfest week suits will affect the rest of their lives. By Grade 12, many have some idea By LESLEY KERR Randy and Mr. Lahey of their goals. Staff Writer from Trailer Park Boys It’s time for Winterfest, so get out Informing them about what the col- your calendars as the Student Admin- lege has to offer may encourage them istrative Council (SAC) and the Glen- to enrol here. dale pub, The Armoury, have a fine The choice now is college or univer- slate of events organized. sity and which one. Snow or no snow, the Snowflake If a student has not already chosen a Carnival is on Monday, Jan. 23, at the path, speaking to a counsellor either at Glendale campus in front of the SAC the high school or here could help in office. the decision-making process. There will be carnival games such as Reading about and seeing what hap- Jeopardy and prizes like gift certifi- pens at Niagara College will be an cates to the Keg or the Pen Centre. effective way to make students feel “It’s an incentive to come out and comfortable about attending Niagara enjoy the afternoon,” says Heather College. Minow, director for programming and In addition to getting exposure to the student events at the Glendale SAC newspaper’s contents, high school stu- office. dents will also have the opportunity to Cotton candy and carnival food will earn a bursary/award towards their be supplied, says Minow. college tuition at Niagara College by “It’s meant to be fun in the non-exis- becoming one of the three winners of a tent snow,” she says, laughing. writing contest. That’s not the only excitement for For more information e-mail that week. [email protected]. On Tuesday, Jan. 24, there is an Photo credit by http://www.livetourartists.com/mr-lahey-and-randy/press_photo.htm Open Mic event from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in The Armoury pub, for those who want to practice for the Nia- gara Idol being held on Jan. 26 during the same time slot in The Armoury. Minow says last week’s Niagara Idol was “awesome. People who weren’t competing got up to sing.” The night of Jan. 24, Randy and Mr. The minimum Lahey from the Trailer Park Boys – yes, the goofballs the you see on the TV sitcom Trailer Park Boys – are coming to the After Hours Pub on the wage is going up. Welland campus at 8 p.m. There will be one bus making one trip there and back from Glendale to If you're an employer, here's what you need to know. Welland, but when the bus is full, it’s full. Be at the pick up spot at 7:15 p.m. Minow says if you’re planning on General Students under Liquor Server Hunting & Fishing Hunting & Fishing Homeworkers (people going and have a car, please drive. Minimum Wage 18 and working not Guides: for less than Guides: for five or doing paid work in their more than 28 hours five consecutive more hours in a day home for an employer) Wednesday night, following an after- per week or during hours in a day whether or not the noon of Niagara Idol, there is a pub a school holiday hours are consecutive night at The Armoury organized by a Current student group participating in the orga- $7.45/hour $6.95/hour $6.50/hour $37.25 $74.50 110% of the minimum wage nize a pub night apprenticeship event. wage rate Don’t stay out too late because on Feb.1, 2006 $7.75/hour $7.25/hour $6.75/hour $38.75 $77.50 110% of the minimum wage Jan. 26 there is the Bahamas BBQ. wage rate Bring your Hawaiian shirt and do your stretching. There will be limbo and hula hoop contests with free food, On February 1, 2006, the general minimum wage will increase to $7.75 per hour from the current rate of $7.45 per hour. Another compliments of SAC. increase will follow bringing the general minimum wage to $8.00 per hour on February 1, 2007. There are much more upcoming events, so check the next edition of To find out more about how the new minimum wage guidelines affect news@niagara for details. employers and employees, call or visit the Ministry of Labour web site. Paid for by the Government of Ontario Randy and Mr. Lahey at After Hours Jan. 24 at 8 p.m. Tickets available at the SAC Office. 1-800-531-5551 www.labour.gov.on.ca/info/minimumwage news@niagara, Jan. 20, 2006, Page 23 Help after assault important By CHERIE BORHO kit is kept in the freezer for six months in case the client “They call to see how you are doing with the drugs ande- Staff Writer changes his or her mind during that time. motionally,” says Alyssa. “[The] after-care is more impor- According to the Ontario Network of Sexual Assault Cen- The treatment area is brightly decorated and has three tant than the night even.” ters, one in five women claims to have been sexually rooms: a family room, a child-friendly middle room and an “The counselling gets rid of the thoughts of the assault itself. assaulted. examination room. There is also a bathroom with showers. It just affects your self-esteem,” says Julia. “You have to learn to About 42,000 phone calls to the Assaulted Women’s “I would like to encourage anyone that has experienced a deal with it, but you don’t have to do it by yourself.” Helpline are made each year. sexual assault or domestic violence to tell someone that they “Definitely tell someone you trust right away, and get help If you are, or someone you know is, living in either of trust about it. It can be a friend, relative, teacher, counsellor, because they know what to do,” says Julia. these situations, the Niagara Health System has a program to nurse, doctor or rape crisis or sexual assault centre,” says “They’re just great,” says Alyssa. “I never knew what help. The Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Treatment Penny McKee, the Niagara College nurse. great service we had in Niagara.” program is located at the St. Catharines General Hospital. Julia, 17, of Thorold, was a victim of sexual assault last Elaine Cybula, 45, of Niagara Falls, a sexual assault The service is confidential and the facility is open 24 August. The assault happened at her friend’s house when nurse examiner, advises people should “seek immediate hours a day. You make the choices as to what you want to two older boys gave her alcohol. She fell asleep and when treatment. There may be injuries that are not yet appar- do. Your family doctor doesn’t have to know about it if that she woke up, one of the boys was on top of her, sexually ent and communicable disease that can be prevented if is the decision chosen. assaulting her. She screamed and then pushed him off. medications are “Treatment is based on what they want, not what we “Nobody thinks it will happen to you. I didn’t, and then it prescribed within HARD TIMES PASS want,” says Auggie McGloin, 58, of Niagara Falls. McGloin did,” says Julia. a 72-hour time is a registered nurse doing public education and program Julia told her sister, Alyssa, 48 hours after the assault. period.” ABORTION IS FOREVER promotion. [The names of Julia and Alyssa have been changed to pro- If you have any The program will provide transportation to its facilities if tect their privacy.] questions, call the needed. Her sister took her to the St. Catharines General Hospital. treatment centre Your complete resource Centre on abortion and euthanasia If the client is domestically abused, treatment for injuries They told the emergency nurse what happened. at 905-684-7271 St. Catharines Right to Life is available, as are safety planning and resource awareness. “[The] emergency ward was especially great,” says ext. 45300 from 8 3 King St., Suite 2, St. Catharines Documentation and photographs of injuries are taken in case Alyssa. a.m. until 4 p.m. the client wishes to press criminal charges. Julia and Alyssa were put in their own room, so they weekdays. 905-684-7505 [email protected] “[I’m] trying to bring awareness to young people who are didn’t have to wait in the emergency ward. Within half an just getting into the dating scene. If he says to you, ‘I care hour, they were taken to the basement where the Sexual about you so much I want to see you all the time’ and he Assault and Domestic Violence program is located. Trust Your doesn’t give you the freedom to see your friends and fami- “It’s very comfortable, like home,” says Alyssa. “It makes Christmas Packages ly, then it’s not a love. It’s a control issue,” says McGloin. the whole process so much easier.” to the Shipping Experts! “It’s never your fault.” The process took four hours to complete and there were Dec. shipping cut-off dates... If the client is sexually assaulted, the client must get to the lots of “options and decisions,” says Alyssa. ! facility within 72 hours of the assault. The centre can pro- “I did feel very safe. They were very comforting,” says " # ! vide medical treatment, such as testing for sexually trans- Julia. “They know exactly what to do. They were very well " ##! mitted infections, the morning-after pill and HIV preven- trained.” ! $% tion, as well as free counselling to help with the emotional She says they provided much help, medically and emo- #&' effects. There is also an evidence kit and the client is able to tionally. They are there for their clients more than just the ( make a report to the police, if desired. night. They call back to see how you are doing and offer Tel: 788-9993 If the client does not wish to press charges, the evidence counselling. Fax: 788-1947 Email: [email protected] NuvaRing an Furniture Warehouse® alternative to the NO Insta-rent CREDIT birth control pill RENT-TO-OWN REFUSED By NATALIE on a daily basis. 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Over the winter holidays, I had the chance to “Winterlude is a great chance to get out of the travel to see a friend who lives in Ottawa. I’ve house, but it also shows that Ottawa isn’t only The Centre Block and Peace Tower, the face of Canada’s Parliament Hill, been there more than a couple of times and have about red tape and politics.” is one of the most recognized buildings in Canadian culture. seen all the museums, galleries and everything If you want to head indoors and do some shop- Photo by Drew Lougheed else touristy, but it’s always a great time while ping and you’re already downtown, check out the I’m there. Rideau Centre. For those who have never been, it’s a city with Located a block away from the ByWard Mar- practically everything to offer, even if you’re not ket, this three-floor mall has shops galore, as well a photo snappy kind of person and just want to as a Sears and a Chapters across the street, and is College helps get away for a few days to relax. connected to the Transitway, which connects to For starters, I would suggest taking the train, all other major malls in the city. which will whisk you along the northern shore- The food and entertainment choices are end- line of Lake Ontario. less. There is Hooters and Hard Rock Café in the others in more After a brief stop in Kingston, your train will ByWard Market, but for a different taste you can veer off to the north and rush through the Ottawa find many Shwarma shops on Bank Street or Valley, where you can see the vast remains of all cross the Ottawa River into Gatineau for some the pines that the Great Ice Storm of 1998 had French cuisine. than 30 nations badly damaged. Athletic entertainment in the capital is high cal- By AMANDA STREET will bring tourists to their location. Once you arrive, I recommend taking the bus to ibre too. Staff Writer Instead of having the Hilton charge for your hotel. The Transitway, a bus-only lane that Hike through the greenbelt that surrounds the Niagara College is reaching abroad tourist attractions, the money will go connects all parts of this bilingual city to this city. Ski, snowboard and toboggan among the to help other countries in their devel- to the Guarani people. widespread system of buses, is your easiest and winding Gatineau Hills in Quebec, hills that can opment. They want to keep their village as it fastest way to get around town. be clearly seen from Ontario. There are a dozen The International Education Devel- is and maintain their lifestyle, but they Where to go, what to do? There, of course, is bars such as The Vox in Kanata, Le Scratch in opment Department (IEDD) at the col- have learned that they can maximize Parliament Hill, the Supreme Court, and the Ottawa’s West End and On Tap downtown in the lege has helped fund international pro- their income by developing their own Museum of Civilization across the Ottawa River ByWard market, to name only a few. jects in over 30 countries. tourism plans. People visiting the area in Quebec, all 10 minutes away from one another And, of course, there is the good old hockey In April and May of 2005, projects will be curious about their village and on foot. game. The National Hockey League’s Ottawa were launched in Argentina and Peru. want to visit. By setting up their own The photo opportunities are superb. The Peace Senators play at Scotiabank Place, formerly the The Argentinean project is a three- industry, the Guarani will benefit. Tower atop Parliament’s centre-block will give Corel Centre in suburban Kanata. If Ontario year bilateral project in the province The focus is on entrepreneurship, you a 360-degree panorama of the entire Hockey League hockey is your game, the Ottawa of Misior. The innovative project is says Pennie, in developing a tourism National Capital Region as well as the Outaouais 67s face-off at the Civic Centre in Lansdowne named Modelo Argentino para Turis- based on their history. The programs (the Quebec side of the Ottawa River), which Park in the spacious Glebe district. mo y Tourism and Employment Model CIDA will provide are still in develop- includes the city of Gatineau, Ottawa’s French Paul LaPierre, 31, of Gatineau, Que., says his (MATE). The Canadian International ment, but, Pennie says, she thinks it counterpart. Senators are defiant about winning the cup this Development Agency (CIDA) largely will focus on teaching their history as Any time of season is great to visit but if it is year. finances the project. well as developing an industry based during winter you choose to come, you won’t be “Oh, you’re from Toronto, eh? We’ll be seeing The project is focused on develop- on the environment, resources and disappointed. The famous Winterlude festival you guys on the golf course in May,” LaPierre ing the tourism industry and incorpo- culture. runs from Feb. 3 until Feb. 19 and gives you at joked. rating disadvantaged members of the The Peru project is set in Arequipa, least a day of activities throughout the downtown If you’re thinking of a getaway sometime dur- community into employment opportu- a city with a population close to one and along the Rideau Canal. ing this winter season, I highly recommend tak- nities. million and Peru’s second largest city. In the Guinness Book of World Records, you ing a trip up to Canada’s Capital Region. Organizers work with historically The programs are centred on the will actually find the Rideau Canal as the world’s You’ll want to go back season after season. marginized groups, such as at-risk hospitality and tourism industry, giv- youth, women and aboriginals. People ing youth and women the opportunity who are unable to attend post-sec- to work in emerging hotels and restau- SAC Awareness ondary training can participate and rants. seek employment, using skills they It consists of three-to-four week already have. short-term modules that teach entry- Kyla Pennie, an international pro- level tourism skills. They also work ject specialist in IEDD, will be head- with companies to encourage them to ing to Argentina on Feb. 4 to join the hire participants and show them that four young professionals. the locals are employable. She says the project is helpful A three-week bar server session was because people who are usually completed at the end of December. A unable to obtain a higher level of edu- two-week session will begin sometime cation are given the opportunity to this month on getting and keeping a job. “develop skills they already have but Pennie says that, depending on are unaware of how to use them.” funding, the sessions will run once or The Argentina project is unique in twice a year. the aspect that it is helping the Mbya The goal of the five-year program is Guarani, a group of aboriginals, set up to reduce poverty in the Arequipa its own tourism industry. The building community through training. of a Hilton hotel next to their village Student Administrative Council (SAC) representatives Mandi Miller (left) and Julia Forster held a draw on Jan. 10 for tickets to Panama Beach for SAC Awareness Day. Photo by Baillie Adcock