Toronto Mayor David Miller comes down to visit Niagara students: Page 6

NIAGARATHE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER OF NIAGARA NEW COLLEGE S FREE March 19, 2010 Vol 40 • Issue 13 Books Beat of one drum for Africa Fort Erie Native Friendship Centre holds its 15th annual mid-winter powwow seeking textbook donations

By KATIE DANIEL Staff Writer Do something good this month: put old textbooks into a box. Since the fi rst week of February, there have been boxes set out at both Niagara College campuses for the Books for Africa campaign. The campaign involves col- lecting textbooks, both secondary school and college level, to be sent to Better World Books. The organization sends the books to Africa, where they are distributed to students all over the continent. According to the campaign’s website, www.booksforafrica.org, its goal is to end the country’s book shortage.

‘You get [books], then sometimes can’t sell them after, so you might as well donate them, not throw them away.’ — Shazia Khan

Traditional Men dancers teach the little ones during the 15th annual mid-winter powwow. For full story see page 20. This is the second year the col- Photo by Heidi Grzesina lege has held the campaign. Last year, the campaign was only at the Niagara-on-the-Lake (NOTL) campus and 25 boxes of Welland’s Needlez Tattoo hit with closure order books were collected. “Last year was a success,” says Shazia Khan, fourth-year student Niagara Region Public Health Department deems equipment unclean in the International Commerce and By ALEX SOMERVILLE plaints about the establishment be sanitary, even in their ads, so as tattooing or piercing services at Global Dilemmas program and Staff Writer and investigated. a customer I would trust them to this location between December co-president of the International Those who have always had a There was no sign of any dis- use clean needles. I just got a new 2009 and March 2010 to see their Club. fear of needles can add another eases from the equipment, such as tattoo last week in kind of a shady physician or visit a walk-in clinic “People asked for the boxes to reason to their list. HIV, hepatitis B or hepatitis C, but place, but even he showed me the and ask for a blood test for HIV, stay out longer,” says Sarah Cuthb- On March 5, the Niagara Region Public Health spokespeople say it needles he was going to use that hepatitis B and hepatitis C.” ertson, International Club member. Public Health Department issued a still felt the need to close the store was still in the package because Those who have questions “People kept donating, so the closure order to Needlez Tattoo, a for safety. it’s really dangerous.” can call the Infectious Disease week [the original alloted time the tattoo parlour at 16 Thorold Rd. E. Jesse Bruce, 28, has had tattoo Dr. Robin Williams, medical Program at 1-888-505-6074 or campaign would run] turned into a in Welland, because staff did not work done in the past and weighed offi cer of health, made a public 905-688-8248 ext. 7330 weekdays month.” sterilize the equipment properly. in on the lack of safety. statement about the matter. during offi ce hours 8:30 a.m. to Public Health had received com- “[Tattoo parlours] all claim to “We ask all clients who received 4:30 p.m. Continued on page 2 Page 2 NIAGARA NEWS March 19, 2010

NIAGARA NEWS ON CAMPUS Shaw Festival

16 & 17

INDEX Media students enjoyed a full slate of activities on their trip to New York City during Reading Week. Submitted photo 2-12...... On Campus 4-5 Editorial & Opinion 13...... Lifestyles 20-22...... Off Campus 23-24.....Entertainment Bright lights, big city 30-34...... Sports By KYRSTY SEMENCHUK Studios, Planet Hollywood, the culture when the tour moved up to Staff Writer Hard Rock Café in its glory, the Little Italy and Chinatown. Brief Sports It’s the city that dreams are made Plaza Hotel and Times Square all moments were spent at Wall Street of. From March 1 to March 4, lit up for New Yorkers to bear wit- and the students could grasp the life Niagara College’s school of media ness. of a student at the New York City programs entered a world of big “I don’t think any of us will campus of Columbia University. lights and big dreams. forget our fi rst night in New York “I would have to say my favourite Annette Hemerik, chair of Media City,” says Graphic Design student stop on the trip was to the Modern Studies, took a group of 20 students Rob DiTillio. “When we walked Museum of Art,” explains DiTil- to New York City for four days and into Times Square and it was lio. “It was an amazing experience three nights of adventure. alive with lights and excitement, it to see all the famous paintings I “It went very well and was well was in that moment we knew we have learned about in Art History, organized,” Hemerik says. weren’t in just any city.” like Van Gogh’s Starry Night and “I think the students had a phe- The bus toured the city for four Salvador Dali’s Persistence of nomenal time.” days. Visiting the Upper East Side Memory.” Departing for New York City and Harlem on day one, students No trip to New York City is at about 7:30 a.m. on a bus were were given a choice between a complete without the breathtak- 30 & 31 students from the Graphic Design Staten Island ferry ride, or attend- ing viewing of the Empire State program, the Acting for Film ing a Broadway show. Building. Students gathered at the and Television program and the On day three, the students toured observation deck on the 86th fl oor. Food Broadcasting - Radio, Television the Upper West Side and Central “My favourite site in New York and Film program. They arrived at Park. Stops consisted of Belvedere City would have to be the Empire about 4:30 p.m. in the Big Apple. Castle, Belvedere Pound, Straw- State Building,” McBane says. “I went into the trip with the idea berry Fields and the Shakespeare “You see pictures of the skyline all that New York was stereotypically Garden. lit up, but they don’t do it justice. loud with a lot of aggressive New “The coolest part for me was at The view was really amazing.” Yorkers,” says third-year Graphic Strawberry Fields,” says second- Memorable moments begin Design student Lacey McBane. “I year Acting student Andrew when someone is astonished and was so happy to be proven wrong. Thompson. for Thompson, New York City Everyone there was so nice, polite “There was a very nice feeling was it. and cultured.” of peace inside. It really made you “To see the beautiful New York Experiencing the fi rst of three feel comfortable and welcome, just City landscape in person for the nights at the Skyline Hotel, 725 the way Beatle John Lennon would fi rst time,” Thompson reveals, “it Tenth Ave., students later enjoyed have wanted.” was overwhelming after all these a walking tour of mid-Manhattan The next stop was the Metro- years of seeing the city on movies 35 past 5:30 p.m. politan Museum of Art. Students and then to realize I was actually Times Square, New York. Students photographed the ABC experienced some international there. It was very exciting for me.” Submitted photo Niagara News is a practical lab for Journalism-Print program students at Niagara College. Opinions expressed in editorials and columns are not those of Niagara College management or administration. Latin Party for Columns, identified as such, reflect only the writer’s Collecting for a good cause opinion. Readers are welcome to respond to columnists Chile relief by email at [email protected] Niagara students rally to benefi t Books for Africa Advertising rules: The advertiser agrees that the Continued from page 1 the campaign. purposes. By KATIE DANIEL publisher shall not be liable for damages arising There isn’t a set end-date for the “As students, you already have Khan says she likes the cam- Staff Writer out of errors in advertisements beyond the amount paid for the space actually occupied by the portion campaign this year because of last so many books. You get them, then paign because it is easy to manage. Get your dancing shoes on. of the advertisement in which the error occurred. All year’s popularity. sometimes can’t sell them after, so She adds it’s a waste of money for The International Club and De- advertisers are asked to check their advertisements The club found out about Books- you might as well donate them, not people to just throw away their partment will be holding a Latin- after first insertion. Errors, which do not lessen the for Africa in a World University of throw them away.” expensive textbooks. themed party at the After Hours value of the advertisement, are not eligible for cor- Canada newsletter last year. “I think it’s a great idea,” says Khan, along with Fernando pub, Welland campus, on March rections by a make-good advertisement. Niagara News reserves the right to edit, revise, classify or It was during literacy month J.P. Bugeaud, fi rst-year Culinary Blanco, co-president of the club, 26 at Niagara College. reject any advertisement. and they found it intereresting and Management student at Niagara would like to thank the college, The event is to raise funds for the decided to give it a try. College. professors, International Depart- people of Chile after the 8.8 level We welcome your opinion After last year’s campaign suc- “I honestly have so many books ment and campus libraries for all earthquake on Feb. 27. Email: [email protected] cess, the club, which has seven lying around and taking up space, of their help. Fernando Blanco, co-president Mail: B6, 300 Woodlawn Rd., of its members working this year, I’ll defi nitely bring them in.” “The libraries have been a huge of the club, says the night includes Welland,Ont. L3C 7L3 extended two boxes to the Welland The donated books go through asset,” says Blanco. The libraries food, transportation from down- In Person: Room B6, Welland campus. campus, while NOTL has four. a pre-scanning before being sent are the main site for the collection town St. Catharines to Welland and Policy: All letters must be signed This year, the club would like to Better World Books because boxes. salsa dancing lessons. and include a day and evening to collect more than 25 boxes of they have to accept the book fi rst. For more information about Tickets cost $10 and can be pur- phone contact number for books and get more people in- For every one that is accepted, the Books for Africa, visit the website, chased from the International De- verification purposes. volved. club receives one dollar, which it or contact the college club at ncin- partment or by emailing the club at “It works well,” says Khan of will donate back for educational [email protected]. [email protected]. March 19, 2010 NIAGARA NEWS Page 3 OBITUARY College mourns journalism student Niagara College has lost a mem- Adam certainly lived an inter- ing his writing skills,” says Niagara ber of its family. esting life, spending many years College faculty member Gary Erb, January-Start Journalism pro- travelling throughout the world. who taught Journalism and Intro- gram student Adam Mendes, 25, of He visited more countries than duction to Government courses to Thunder Bay, died in his apartment most do in a lifetime. From Aus- Adam since January. “Adam was in St. Catharines on Feb. 26. tralia, Iceland, Scotland, France, always asking interesting questions Adam’s passing has affected each Germany, Slovakia, Great Britain in both his classes.” of us in a different way. Each of us to California and Denmark to On his last weekly Canadian had a different relationship with Portugal, he spanned the globe in Press test in his Journalism 1100 him. Some of us knew him better search of adventure. class, Adam got a perfect score of than others. Some of us were more He spent a great deal of his time 10, joining for the fi rst time the “10 affected than others when college not just visiting some of these Club.” faculty told us about his death. countries as a tourist, but also liv- “Adam brought a particularly Each of us is dealing with his ing with the people and learning strong and unique perspective to death in our own way. about their lifestyles. government class because of his We agree his death has saddened An easy-going person, Adam travels. He had a positive impact us, and we realize his life is worth adapted well to his surroundings. on the class. He will be missed by remembering. He made friends wherever he all of us — students and faculty,” We have lost a friend and we went. Our class will miss his sense added Erb. miss him dearly. It’s unfortunate of humour. From his obituary in the Thunder he will not continue with us on our “His ability to laugh was very Bay newspaper, Adam was an avid journey through the program. much a part of his personality,” soccer fan. He enjoyed following It’s not easy putting into words says Shaylene Abbey, 28, Adam’s the exploits of his favourite soccer what a young man like Adam had classmate. team, Benfi ca in Portugal. done in his life. Adam was never one to shy Adam is survived by his mother, It isn’t easy writing about some- away from asking questions or Susan, his father, Carlos, Andrew, one we’ve only known for a few giving his opinions in or out of the his brother, and grandparents Irene months, but Adam’s life and what classroom. and Fernando. He was predeceased he experienced was important to “I enjoyed government class by his grandparents Walt and Mary those who knew and cared for with him because he was always McDonald. Adam joins his friend him. opinionated, and I respected that,” and fellow traveler J.J. (Brock) “We’re taking it one day at a says Fortier. Burns. time,” Adam’s mother, Susan, Adam cared about the world. He A funeral service was held in told Janelle Nystrom, Adam’s cared about journalism. He wanted Thunder Bay on March 5. Burial classmate, in a telephone interview to make a difference and learn as will be held at a later date in Provi- from her home in Thunder Bay on much as he could about his new dence Bay Cemetery on Manitoulin March 11. chosen profession. Island. “I don’t think it has really hit me In a brief outline of his interests Adam will be remembered. He yet.” and dedication to his new career, has brought our class closer to- “It was so diffi cult for me,” she he wrote in January: “In wake of gether. His life made a difference. added. “Adam lived on the edge. This photo of Adam was taken in Lisbon, Portugal. the disaster in Haiti, I read an ar- That’s the kind of guy he was.” Submitted photo ticle where a journalist described Susan says Adam had telephoned his primitive conditions sleeping her on Feb. 25 and told her he was friends he really had. He touched er, 33, of Welland, about his class- on a cot in an airport. Please, I’ll Editor’s Note: This doing well and that he had paid his the lives of many people,” Susan mate. “Whenever we lose someone sleep in a ditch if it means getting article about Adam Mendes told Janelle. in our lives, the loss of that person rent for four months. a story, especially if thousands of was written by his fellow “It’s going to be a hard road, but “A light in our school has been can be devastating.” people are catching permanent I’m glad he had friends, You know, extinguished and now things seem “As long as we remember Adam, somber amidst rubble.” January-Start Journalism I don’t think he realized how many a little dimmer,” wrote Chris Forti- he will never truly be gone.” “Adam worked hard at improv- program classmates. Adam’s life and experiences touched many people

on Feb. 26 at his apartment in St. “I was shocked, it was diffi cult. Catharines. He wasn’t just another student. JANELLE Adam’s life and experiences Every class we’re in, we are such a NYSTROM have affected so many people. For small community and so I had met me, it was really hard. I cried for with Adam on several occasions to Columnist him, I cried for his mother, and I talk about life. I felt I was getting cried for me. to know Adam through these con- Losing him just as I began to ap- versations. preciate him was tough. I could see “It was tough because he was a through his eyes how deeply he felt part of this community, he had an People don’t realize the value of for people and how human rights impact on my life, he had an impact human life and how social interac- and political issues drove him to on the lives of everyone else in this tion can play such a huge role in become a better journalist. Adam classroom and it kind of brought all our day-to-day lives. Something as told me how he felt about the world of that home for me.” simple as “Hello, how are you do- out there. He said to me one time on The last time Adam talked to ing?” can make such an immense a drive home from college, “These Derrick was on the Tuesday before difference in a person’s outlook for kids just don’t get it. They can’t he died. the day. seem to understand how important “He came to my offi ce that day Adam poses in front of a waterfall in Iceland. As I say goodbye to a truly journalism is for the people of this and we talked about life. Suddenly Submitted photo missed friendship, I will look hope- country and other countries in the out of the blue he asked me a ques- fully forward. It is impossible for world.” tion about fi shing because he had everyone here, he was a part of As a part of the Niagara College me to tell the world how important It wasn’t about money for Adam seen some of the stuff I had on the our class, and he was a part of this community, I want people to learn each individual is and how life can or getting a prestigious job. It was walls of my offi ce, and I realized community. from Adam’s life and see how we make a difference and affect many about doing something for the that he was genuinely interested in “He was the type of student that all affect each other for good and lives. greater good of mankind. talking to me, and that was the nice as a teacher–because he was such a bad, somehow there is and must be Tears of devastation strike hard Recently I spoke with one of thing about him,” said Derrick. nice guy and because he genuinely hope for a stronger community and at the hearts of the Niagara College Adam’s teachers at Niagara Col- “It was very, very diffi cult get- cared about me, about his class- we should all desire to impact each family as we all bid a fond farewell lee. Derrick Eaves, who taught ting the news that he had passed mates, and because he wanted to other the way that Adam taught us. to one of our own. Adam Mendes, Adam English for Journalism, away because he was a part of my do so well–I just rooted for him to Janelle was Adam’s classmate in 25, of Thunder Bay, died suddenly since January. life, he was a part of the lives of succeed.” the Journalism program. Page 4 NIAGARA NEWS March 19, 2010 EDITORIAL OPINION NIAGARA NEWS Budget plan

Editor: Craig Leach Associate Editor: Katie Daniel only good Assistant Editor: Jessica Van Vugt Photo Editor: Seth Hennessy Publisher: Annette Hemerik for some Managing Editor: George Duma Associate Managing Editor: Phyllis Barnatt Design/Layout Consultant: Peter Conradi Let the rich get richer and the Editorial Consultant: Nancy Geddie, Gary Erb poor — do they even matter? Photography Consultant: Dave Hanuschuk On March 4, the Conservative Technology Support: Kevin Romyn government, along with Finance Minister Jim Flaherty, announced the federal budget 2009 WINNER plan, giving a bigger break to B2, 300 Woodlawn Rd., BNC2009 Welland, Ont. L3C 7L3 big businesses and corporations, Telephone: (905) 735-2211 while leaving middle-class Fax: (905) 736-6003 citizens, where? Editorial email: [email protected] We are currently sitting at a Advertising email: [email protected] $53.8 billion defi cit. Flaherty predicts that by 2014-2015 the defi cit will drop to $1.8 billion defi cit. We need a Robin Hood There will be no cuts to Earth: problem-fi lled and I am not ignoring the fact healthcare, old age pensions Illustration by Madison Samuel-Barclay inevitably doomed. many high-income people do and education; however, there The human population deals donate large amounts of money are no promises for social with wars, corrupt governments, to charities. Celebrity television programs and services. natural disasters, disease, host Oprah Winfrey, in all her The plan also places a freeze poverty, hunger, global warming, glory, is an excellent example A ray of hope on the salaries of the Prime poor economies and even pro of these charitable individuals. Minister, cabinet ministers golfer Tiger Woods’s affairs. But if you look at the bigger and members of parliament for Some things cannot be helped as picture, the majority does not three years. they are natural processes in life do anything for anyone else or in troubled times However, the plan continues such as the Chilean earthquake simply do not do enough. Why? to create tax cuts for or tsunami in Japan, but a lot of Selfi shness? Greed? Opportunity is in the air. program has already developed corporations. the world’s issues result from North Americans are fortunate. Specifi cally, opportunity is ultra-thin, transparent solar Flaherty announced, “We ignorance. The United States and Canada in the rays of sun that splash cells that can be installed on the present today a jobs and growth Take a look at the United are well-off countries and most across the Niagara region. roofs of greenhouses and used budget.” States. It is one of the wealthiest of their populations live decent Toronto-based, international to power the buildings. According to the Department countries in the world, a military lives. renewable energy company Solar cells could only be the of Finance website, “Over and economic leader. Yes, poverty and disease Oneworld Energy (OE) beginning. $600 million to help develop Want to know what one of the reach us, but not to the same announced last week its Consider the implementation and attract talented people to leading problems in America extent that other countries get subsidiary, COU Solar of the Ontario government’s strengthen our capacity for is? Obesity. hit with. Inc. (COU), will begin Green Energy Act, including world-leading research and Third World countries, such We have issues we deal with as manufacturing solar energy North America’s fi rst feed-in- development and to improve as the ones in Africa, deal with North Americans, but honestly, products in Welland this fall. tariff program, which requires the commercialization of corrupt governments, poverty they are nothing compared With the prospect of 200 renewable energy companies research.” and disease. They deal with with what the rest of the world to 300 new direct jobs and an such as OE to ensure that by While I was reading this the truly terrible things that can handles. estimated 1,000 spinoff jobs, 2011, 60 per cent of the cost of particular passage from the happen while North Americans Ignorance is tough to solve. you can bet there are many renewable energy projects be economic plan, something and other well-off continents’ Not everyone can travel to see licking their chops and lining bore in Ontario. stuck out: “to help develop and populaces live comfortably. fi rst-hand the troubles Third up for a chance to benefi t With such legislation forcing attract talented people.” I like to indulge in food just World countries deal with. from the newest industry in companies to set up long- Is this money being spent as much as the next person, You hear stories about how a economically hard hit Welland. term ventures in Ontario, the on talented Canadian people and I enjoy not having to do trip changed some celebrity’s At the front of the line needs Niagara region sits in a prime or trying to attract individuals anything but lie on a couch life by allowing him or her to be Niagara College. position to become a leader in from other countries? being entertained by fake to see the death, disease and Creating a strong relationship the production of renewable In my opinion, it seems rather people on a screen; that is the hunger in full view. with COU would mutually energy technologies from wind vague, and purposely so. North American lifestyle. Why does it take such a trip benefi t the company and to solar to water. “Reducing the tax burden It’s hard not to fall into such to make people realize it is college and could help And Niagara College has on businesses is a key part of luxurious living in this society. happening? develop the Niagara region as the capability to drive this Canada’s advantage in the The majority of us are ignorant It is common knowledge the a hub for renewable energy industrial shift. global economy,” Flaherty about the rest of the world; world has millions of suffering manufacturing, research and Think of how the University of said. North Americans live in just a people. design. Waterloo created and developed The plan aims at “Making North American world. Why don’t we take a leaf Not only could Niagara the powerful technology sector Canada a tariff-free zone for With the number of from Robin Hood’s book? Why College produce the highly in Waterloo. Heard of a little manufacturers,” leaving even millionaires and billionaires don’t the fortunate help the less skilled workforce through company called RIM? more money in the pockets of in the world, why do entire fortunate? its Electrical Engineering The potential for the same to the rich. countries deal with poverty? Those with more should help Technician program, but by happen in Niagara exists. So, to correct Flaherty’s Much of the multi-millionaires’ those with less. partnering with the college, Niagara College needs to statement, “We present today, money isn’t touched. This could ultimately be the COU would benefi t from show what it can offer this a right-wing budget that Why must they keep it in some solution to a lot of the world’s cutting-edge research and industry. corporations will love, sugar- bank account? Why wouldn’t issues, if only everyone would development of solar energy It is an opportunity that we coated so the middle class will they donate it to organizations realize it. technologies. should not miss. stay quiet.” that work to stop poverty in Niagara College’s Photonics poorer countries? KATIE DANIEL Engineering Technology CRAIG LEACH JULIA BOUCHER March 19, 2010 NIAGARA NEWS Page 5 Anthem issues OPINION Since Robert Stanley Weir wrote THOMAS the lyrics in 1908, and in 1980 when ROTELLA the Canada Act was passed and O Canada offi cially became our coun- Columnist try’s anthem, it’s been a part of what defi nes us. We seem to be riding on this storm cloud of concern over things that don’t exactly bear down as heavily as other more serious No, Canada. matters. Recently, our home and native With the economy struggling to land, still buzzing after one of its lat- get back on its feet, there are more est cultural and patriotic highlights, important issues at hand: the new is fi nding itself under scrutiny from federal budget, creating new jobs, parliament. and opening up new hospitals, to It seems that our federal govern- name three. A debate on doing a ment has suggested our national makeover of our national anthem anthem should be changed to make would add more to our country’s it more “gender neutral.” defi cit and subtract from taxpayers’ It’s a suggestion that has this wallets. Canadian, among countless others, I, for one, am proud to be Ca- shaking his head in dismay. nadian. I’ve stood up and sung the The sudden shout for political national anthem, hand over heart, at correctness lies in the verse, “True a hockey game or event. I pour real patriot love, in all thy sons com- maple syrup on my pancakes. And mand.” yes, I also drink Molson Canadian Yes, fellow red and white lovers beer. But alas, fellow Canadians, from far and wide, that one word, I do not fi nd that changing a few “sons,” is causing all the fuss from words will keep this nation glorious Illustrated by Madison Samuel-Barclay those asking for change because and free. it appears to leave women on the Did we not learn anything from outside.Their revised version would the Olympics? Did we not see take a back-to-the-future approach: people across the nation, from Israeli Aparthied Week, a controversial topic “True patriot love, thou dost in us Montreal, to Toronto, to Vancouver, stone report on Operation Cast Supporting Israel means command.” Doesn’t exactly roll off standing arm in arm, shouting out Lead in Gaza, coupled with the expecting criticism, but it also the tongue. the lyrics as one?A nation’s anthem JOSH growing antagonism towards comes with the opportunity for Now, gender neutrality is an is inclusive. Regardless of what the GRANT- Israeli settlement in the West dialogue. Even former Palestin- extremely worthy cause, but is lyrics may look like, a country’s YOUNG Bank territory, is prime pickings ian leader Yasser Arafat was changing one word in our country’s song doesn’t just speak to men; for activists. willing to sit down with former anthem going to further the equal- it doesn’t just speak to women; it Columnist Federal political leaders from Israeli leader Ariel Sharon. ity of rights for men and women? speaks to everyone who calls this the Liberals, Conservatives Despite being from two dif- Doubtful. land home. and New Democrats have con- ferent worlds, both being known Remember the 2010 Winter Change isn’t easy. It’s sometimes demned IAW, denouncing it as for their unapologetic tactics in Olympics, just of late? Canada’s met with resistance, discouragement In 1983, Bob Dylan released hateful and calling for students war and diplomacy, Arafat and anthem was heard more than any or total ignorance. the song Neighborhood Bully to stop observing it. Sharon helped further the peace other, as we took gold in 14 events. Changing a word in our anthem which has been interpreted as Since its founding, Israel has process in the Middle East. I doubt that any of the female isn’t going to affect the way we ap- a song supporting Israel in the faced criticism ranging from in- Diplomacy doesn’t mean lik- athletes who took top honours on proach gender issues in this country. face of global criticism for de- tellectuals, human rights groups ing your opponents. It means the podium had any concerns of Or any country, for that matter.It’s fending itself against terrorism to outright anti-Semitic rhetoric being open to what they say. gender-bias phrasing as they wiped a quick-fi x solution to addressing a and enemies abroad. from radical Muslims and white Freedom of speech shouldn’t away the tears of joy and belted out problem with greater issues. Over 30 years has passed and supremacists. be crushed, but has every right our country’s song. If we, as Canadians, want to ac- the sympathy remains. By supporting Israel’s right to be criticized. Supporters of I doubt that the thousands upon knowledge women, changing their Last week was Israeli Apart- to exist and protect its interests Palestinian independence may thousands of fans watching their circumstances for the better is the heid Week (IAW), an unoffi cial in the Middle East, you’ll need criticize, but should be willing athletes holding up their gold med- proper approach, not erasing a part practice at colleges and universi- thick skin and an open ear. to admit the faults within their als were screaming inequality over of our history because it doesn’t ties across Canada to rally sup- What can be learned from own movement. Apartheid isn’t the roar of the crowd as our fl ag was sound right. port against the perceived Israeli IAW is there can be a division the right word, but hatred isn’t raised above their heads. And if some still aren’t satisfi ed, occupation of Palestine. between legitimate claims and the answer, it slows the peace If this is a way for our government here’s a possible solution: Have Although the practice of IAW racist garbage. Freedom of process. to promote patriotism and equality Alvin and the Chipmunks sing our began in 2005, since Israel’s speech is a right that may be Most importantly, Israel right- in an effort to protect something anthem from now on. They’re cute, military advance into the Gaza used in a confrontational man- fully exists, but as Dylan says, that doesn’t really need protection, they’re cuddly and they’re a com- Strip, the movement has gained ner, but it offers a chance to get Israel’s “always on trial for just this is not the right path. pletely different species. momentum. This year’s Gold- to the bottom of the issue. being born.” Sunny days on the Welland campus SUMMER JOBS COLLEGE PRO PAINTERS is presently looking for responsible / hard- working University or College students for: Full-Time Painting Positions May - August No experience required, we will train you to paint. Positions available in your area. Third-year graphic design students, from left to right, Ryan Niles, Danielle Freeman, James Newman, soak up the sun outside the Black Walnut building Wednesday, while working on projects. If interested call 1-888-277-9787 Photo by Bernard Cooper or apply online at www.collegepro.com Page 6 NIAGARA NEWS March 19, 2010 ON CAMPUS Mayor says voters want authenticity Toronto Mayor David Miller discusses pertinent issues with media students

By JOSH GRANT-YOUNG of Toronto’s transit system. his resignation. Miller faced an Staff Writer Miller noted that, in 2003, city interview on CBC he called “bi- Toronto Mayor David Miller transit was operating vehicles that zarre” and the lack of research on doesn’t lie when he says he is “al- were 24 years old. The situation for the part of the pundit “pathetic.” ways up front.” Toronto was so grim that the city “I’ll come back,” he joked with Miller, 51, visited Niagara Col- imported scrap parts and vehicles the audience. lege’s Welland campus Thursday from Montreal, vehicles originally Miller urged journalism and to speak to Journalism-Print and destined for Cuba. public relations students to con- Public Relations program students However, Miller currently has sider two things: to be “authentic” about his experiences running the models that offer handicap acces- and “prepared,” but also to answer largest city in Canada. sibility and a greener method of a “fundamental question about the While the job would seem to wear transportation in the city. future of journalism.” down many politicians, Miller can- Miller gives credit to the amal- Social media, Miller feels, is a didly engaged the audience, telling gamation of the Greater Toronto great means of “improving social jokes and drawing cheeky cartoons Area, without which he believes a communication” but has fl aws. of the Toronto Transit system. superior transit system would not While taking pictures and “I’ve always taken a different be possible. tweeting on his phone, Miller approach. People want authentic- As well, the possibility of light- noted Twitter isn’t completely ity.” rail construction linking neigh- professional in language, as he Referring to his early career in bourhoods across Toronto and an proved by going through unin- politics, Miller became involved increase in the number of bike telligible photo comments, but with the New Democratic Party, a paths stands to improve transporta- he hopes journalism and public party with whom he “shared many tion in the near future. relations programs will “refi ne the of the same ideas.” Miller spent the latter half of his facts.” He was fi rst elected to Toronto speech discussing the virtues and When asked about his future council in 1994 and became mayor vices of social media technology, plans, Miller reiterated he plans in 2003. He successfully ran for re- an issue that reared its head March not to seek re-election, but instead election in 2006. 10 when his offi ce sent out a press spend time with his family. When running for offi ce, Miller release notifying the public Miller Miller is considering following focused on city transit and environ- was expected to make an “impor- in the footsteps of fellow politi- mental concerns, a focus he carried tant” announcement that an addi- cians Al Gore and Bill Clinton by into his mayoral term. tional $100 million was discovered engaging in some level of envi- Miller reversed previous set- in the city budget. ronmental or social philanthropy. David Miller spent a few minutes in the Niagara News newsroom. Here backs that he felt were due to Mike The release was widely criti- Being a mayor “is immensely he is with Annette Hemerik, chair of Media Studies. Harris’s provincial government- cized by the press, who expected rewarding,” Miller said, “but it Photo by Toni Karan funding cutbacks to the expansion a personal announcement, such as uses you up.”

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Food bank seeking help New software SAC reaches out to both college campuses paves way for students with to help with depleting food donations disabilities By STEVE HENSCHEL Staff Writer A tough economy and rising By BRITTNEY HALL education costs affect all students, Staff Writer sometimes pitting paying for neces- Not many people can look you in sities like food and shelter against the eye and say they love their job, each other. but this man takes it a step further. In an attempt to make sure all “Sometimes I feel I’m made students can afford the basic neces- for the job,” says James McEwen, sities, the Student Administrative assistive technologist at Niagara Council (SAC) runs a food bank College. “I love it.” on both campuses, and this week, McEwen is a graduate of the Ni- it is looking for help. agara College Computer Engineer- Between March 8 and 19, SAC members and volunteers have been ing Technology program. campaigning on the campuses to After graduation he saw a job raise donation. The SAC represen- posting for the position here, says tatives have been in the cafeterias McEwen. His friend had the same displaying cardboard signs in- job and said it was good. That and tended to illustrate the concerns of the fact that he liked the college hungry students. were his deciding factors in apply- According to Tyler Hore, SAC ing for the job. executive vice-president for the He started as part time but then Welland campus, the food bank is applied for full time because he “starting to deplete itself,” with the enjoyed it so much. Niagara-on-the-Lake campus bank completely empty at the beginning He has been in the position for of the food drive. seven years and still says that he Vice-President of Student “loves” the job. Affairs, Kemar Hayles, 21, of What’s his secret to not getting Welland, says about fi ve people SAC Director of Student Events, Jennifer Holloway, campaigns on campus urging students to donate to the bored with the same job for seven use the Welland campus food bank campus food bank. years? New challenges. weekly, with about 360 individual Photo by Steven Henschel He is constantly looking for dif- students using the bank last year. the campaign had raised $80 and munity Justice Services student, Donation bins will be at various ferent types of programs for differ- “Our food bank is starting to get 84 items, says Hayles. and mother, says the campus food spots on campuses until March ent students, he says. low and more people come every Twenty-two-year-old Randi- banks are an important resource for 19, if any students wish to donate. He fi nds and teaches new technol- day,” says Hayles. Lee Bowslaugh, SAC director of struggling students. SAC is always looking for dona- ogies to students with disabilities. He says the signs were created student life for the Welland cam- “If you can’t make ends meet, tions, and any students wishing to to represent the thoughts of hungry pus, has volunteered twice for the especially if you have a child, you do so, can bring their donations to There are a few software programs students. drive. need help.” the SAC offi ce, says Hayles. and some interesting gadgets that “We try and make it look like She says one of the main goals The campus food bank relies on The food banks can be found in he uses to help students succeed to we are the students going through is to raise awareness. “People just student donations, says Hayles, but the SAC buildings on both cam- the best of their abilities. this,” he says. “Some of us are.” don’t know,” she says. SAC and local grocery stores also puses. Dragon Naturally Speaking is a At the beginning of this week, Bowslaugh, a second-year Com- contribute. software program for students with typing disabilities, or dyslexia. The program scans the textbook to the computer and reads the words for the student, highlighting the words College’s newest registrar settling in as it goes. Another gadget is the Pulse Pen, By JASON COSTA as well.” “I really enjoyed mixing and “Working with Bob has been valued at about $200. It has a spe- Staff Writer His parents never had the speaking to students and their a very enjoyable experience so cial notebook that records as you A childhood link is what opportunity to attend post- parents.” far. He has fi t into our team quite write notes. You can listen to words continues to drive him. secondary education, which, “Talking to students about well and has accomplished quite a that you have missed, or replay the From the French word for coupled with his brother-in-law’s the benefi ts of post-secondary bit already in the short time he has content if you just need to under- hideaway, Pacquet is a small acceptance into university, helped education, that is really what I been here. He is defi nitely ‘student stand what was being discussed. 210-person town on the Atlantic push Hann into the career path that loved to do.” focused,’ which I believe is key to In order to get an appointment Ocean shoreline of Newfoundland. keeps him motivated to this day. Following closely in Hann’s his role. I look forward to working with him, students must be regis- It is the birthplace of Niagara Hann attended Memorial footsteps, is the love of his life. with him to work toward serving tered as a student with a disability, College’s newest registrar, Bob University, in Corner Brook, N.L., Married for over 20 years, Pau- our students even better.” and be referred to him by a disabil- Hann. where he stayed in residence for lette Hann, who works as a payroll Comparing his drive and ity counselor. He was not a Pacquet resident his fi rst year before moving to St. team leader with Alberta Health determination to his childhood, He does one-hour appointments for long as having a minister for a John’s to complete his studies. Services, waits for the construction Hann believes his fi rst-hand and deals with about fi ve to six stu- father brought lots of travel early in He completed a bachelor of arts of their house in Niagara Falls, experience will ease the students’ dents a day. During those appoint- Hann’s life. with a major in history and a minor Ont., to be completed before she is transition into post-secondary ments, he teaches the students how From birth until high school in psychology. able to see Hann again. education. to use the software that he believes graduation, Hann had seen over fi ve Hann spent years in post- Until then, Hann lives in a Hann states, “How do we make will suit them best. different residences, something he secondary administration at the temporary home in Fonthill, Ont., it easier for the students so they are “This job actually helps people is very thankful for. Career Academy, N.L., Northern which exceeds his expectations. more likely to be successful?” and makes a difference,” says “My upbringing was pretty Lakes College, Alta., and fi nally “It’s a beautiful area. I love it. With questions like these fueling McEwen. “That would have to be normal. Moving around was pretty Red Deer College, Alta., where he There’s a little more snow than Hann’s motives and aspirations, the best part.” exciting. Some people may see pursued graduate study at Royal promised, but I love the area and it is clear that Niagara College’s For an appointment, contact the it as upsetting, but for me it was Roads University. the college.” registrar will continue to help Centre for Disabilities in W102 at the norm. [It] was part of my life “I really enjoyed the post- Hann’s secretary, Kim Saxton, is “further benefi t students” in any the NOTL campus and Se 102 at and it’s refl ective in my career secondary sector,” Hann explains. happy to have Hann in the offi ce. way he can. the Welland campus. Page 8 NIAGARA NEWS March 19, 2010 ON CAMPUS Inspiration for young mothers A lesson shared, learned and loved By SYLVIE BERRY this market for the past three years back and change some things, I Staff Writer as the numbers grow. In September probably would.” On the surface, she’s the typical 2009, there were 835 non-tradi- This urged her and other young student juggling hours of home- tional learners, compared to 533 in moms to create Postponing Parent- work, tuition payments and a so- September 2007. ing Until You’re Ready, a speakers’ cial life. But behind closed doors, Lindsay Patriquin, recruitment bureau where she tries to prevent she’s raising a family of two young co-ordinator for the non-traditional teen pregnancies and promote the girls, maintaining a household market, seeks out potential students importance of youth. She’ll give and sometimes, struggling to fi nd in the community. Pursuing adult speeches at local schools, engage enough time to balance everything schools such as Adolescent Family in discussions and create role play in one day. Services Supporting Niagara (AF- scenarios. Natasha Smagata, 24, of the SSN), which offers independent Executive Director of United Offi ce Administration – Executive study programs for young mothers, Way South Niagara Peter Papp Co-op program at Niagara College, Patriquin provides the young adults worked closely with Smagata and is the poster child of a once-trou- with Niagara College information used her as the face and role model bled youth who’s overcome it all. and assistance. for their 2009 advertizing cam- Dropping out of high school at “I know last year, before I started paign. She also participated in a 15 because of some wrong choices with the AFSSN centre they maybe radio commercial for United Way. and poor judgement calls and get- had one or two girls going on to “Her hard work at AFSSN was ting pregnant not long after at 16 college. Now, the majority of the extraordinary. We are very happy, and again at 19 have been diffi cult girls, once they’ve got their high and we hope that she will continue challenges to face. But those chal- school diploma, are coming to col- to inspire other young people,” lenges proved to be nothing short lege because of the outreach,” says says Papp. of a wakeup call, forcing Smagata Patriquin. Now in her second term at Ni- to make some very important and It was Patriquin’s generous hand agara, Smagata’s now used to the needed life changes. and guidance that led Smagata to routine of school and has earned “I needed to be independent, I the next chapter of her life. her title as honour roll student needed an education, I needed a “I was scared and intimidated. through her hard work in high career, and I needed to provide for She just made me feel more com- school and college. In addition to my kids,” says Smagata. fortable,” says Smagata. her valedictorian status, Smagata At Niagara College, students At 20, she joined a young moth- received two bursaries, which to- who are not direct entries out of er’s outreach program through gether were worth $5,000, and paid high school are considered non- AFSSN and loaded her schedule for her tuition and book fees. traditional learners. Among them with courses, exams, credits and Natasha Smagata, 24, with her daughters, from left, Malory, 7, and Through sharing her motiva- are individuals who’ve taken time volunteer hours, all necessary for Mataya, 4. tional story, those surrounding off from school to work, people her 2009 graduation. Not only did Photo by Sylvie Berry Smagata can’t help but be inspired who’ve returned to college after she receive her high school diploma Before graduation and the start adolescents were so uneducated on by her powerful message. being laid off in the workforce or while raising her daughters Malary, of her college career, Smagata took teen pregnancy. “I believe our pasts help make us people who’ve returned to college 7, and Mataya, 4, but also gradu- note of the overwhelming numbers “Even though I had kids as a who we are and affect the way we to be retrained in a different fi eld. ated with honours as valedictorian of young moms at AFSSN. She teenager, now that I know what I live in the present; however it does The college has been focusing on of her class. couldn’t shake the feeling that know, it was wrong. If I could go not dictate our future.” Mock crisis scares and prepares PR students

By JASON COSTA we put PR students in the hot seat, Staff Writer let them get a sense of the pressure Dealing with crises is just part of the media can make organization’s the job. spokespersons feel. It’s really hard Students of Niagara College’s to keep your cool, think on your Public Relations (PR) Graduate feet, make sense and keep to your Cirtifi cate program took the podi- key messages when the media are um on Feb. 25, to discuss a serious demanding answers. We do this matter. exercise because the students need Placed into groups and given a to understand how diffi cult it is to random crisis-like situation just be a company’s or organization’s minutes before their presentation, spokesperson. This exercise is students were expected to develop hard, but so is dealing with a seri- an action plan to deal with media ous crisis facing a business.” questions during a live press con- Rhiannon Lachance, 24, a PR ference. program student, says the program As if dealing with a crisis wasn’t is an “excellent gateway.” enough, students stood in front of “In our just over six months at members of the “press,” fellow the college, we have been exposed Niagara College students in the to real-world situations, given the Journalism-Print and Broadcast- tools and shown fi rst-hand how ing – Radio, Television and Film to deal with that situation. I come programs. They came bearing from a university background and cameras, microphones and note- the difference I can see in the type pads, peppering the PR “offi cers” of education we receive in this with questions related to their From left, Katie Farr, Kristen Smith, Rhiannon Lachance, Walker Ferri and Lindsay Scrivener take the podium program has equipped me with the inherent disasters, ranging from a during a mock PR conference. tools to go out into the communica- lethal plane crash to a banquet of Photo by Jason Costa tions fi eld and actually know what poisoned guests. 2006, Lowe teaches PR students of the company’s. “Knowing how portant to communicate properly I am doing.” Sitting among the press was Col- principles, theory and strategies much information to give,” that with all audiences,” says Lowe. Fellow team member Walker leen Lowe, a graduate of the Public for communicating with audiences, daunts the students during the dif- Program Co-ordinator Nancy Ferri, 22, believes the PR program Relations Graduate Certifi cate every Thursday afternoon. fi cult task, especially when dealing Geddie believes the exercise plays is not only a challenge, but a tes- program in 2002, who graded the The exercise teaches how to with the media. a key role in helping students un- tament of character, also “PR is a students’ every move. answer questions while being hon- “When there is a crisis that derstand the true meaning of PR. battle. I’ve never been put in more Working at Niagara College since est and maintaining the credibility threatens an organization, it is im- “Opportunities like this, when distress in my entire life,” he says. March 19, 2010 NIAGARA NEWS Page 9 ON CAMPUS

■NiagaraBriefs Sandwich competition Planning successful futures Canada Bread is inviting NCI culi- nary, baking and apprentice students to By DAVID JANZEN except it’s all about the money. bring fresh thought to bread. Students Staff Writer There’s no love,” says McCreadie are asked to create a sandwich recipe In Ontario, 80 per cent of new with a laugh. from Canada Bread’s sliced breads, businesses fail in the fi rst year. An individual may possess buns and rolls. The deadline for the This alarming statistic is one rea- strong technical skills in a certain recipes, along with photos of the son why Helen McCreadie, offi ce fi eld, but may have no fi nances or sandwich, is April 1. The winners of manager of the Business Success a lack of marketing panache; this the competition will win a grand prize and Loan Centre (BSL) in Fort person would benefi t from entering of $3,000; second place will receive Erie, spoke to a second-year jour- a partnership with somebody who $1,500 and third will take home $500. nalism class at Niagara College on could bring more resources to the For more information contact Johanna March 9. table, says McCreadie. Cotte at [email protected] or at She offered the students a crash The fi nal structure, the corpora- ext. 4629. course in starting a small business tion, is a separate legal identity In Your Backyard and highlighted pitfalls that new from the owner and offers tax ad- business owners may encounter. vantages once a business grows to Niagara College’s NOTL campus McCreadie also outlined the three a certain size. Sole proprietors are will be hosting its annual In Your types of business structures exist- in an advantageous tax situation Backyard and Horticultural open house ing in Ontario, including sole until their profi ts reach $30,000. on March 20-21 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. proprietorship, partnership and the While a corporation offers in- The event will feature more than 40 corporation. creased credibility with bankers vendors, guest speakers, exhibits and The BSL, formerly the Business to raise capital, with a $1,000 to more. Thousands of student-grown Development Centre of Greater $2,000 start-up fee, “it won’t likely plants will be on sale. More informa- Fort Erie, is a non-profi t organiza- be an option for you as students tion at www.niagaracollege.com/ tion that provides the community straight out of school,” says Mc- inyourbackyard. with access to government-funded Creadie. In memory of Albert Cyprik employment programs, training And how do the 20 per cent of seminars, business loans and a A wine and culinary celebration will businesses that survive the fi rst be held in memory of Albert Cyprik at business resource centre. year thrive? Established in 1985 with the the Niagara Culinary Institute on April “Keep your business name relat- 5. Tickets are $100 per person. The help of government funding, it ed to what you plan on doing; you now functions autonomously from reservation deadline is March 26. The want to make sure it’s relevant,” government dollars. reception begins at 6 p.m. with dinner says McCreadie. Keeping track of McCreadie jumped into the en- served at 7 p.m. For tickets and more business expenses is another im- trepreneurial services provided at information, contact Helen Armstrong, portant factor for business survival, BSL with an explanation of how a ext. 7847. she adds. student might structure their self- Income tax help employed business. “Keep a good set of books at all “Sole proprietorship has a lot of times. Getting an audit isn’t fun – Revenue Canada will be sending advantages,” says McCreadie. track all expenses in the fi rst year volunteers to help students complete “The record keeping is simple and be smart with your purchases. their 2009 Income Tax Returns. They and so is the registration process.” Helen McCreadie, offi ce manager of the Fort Erie Business Success You need to be savvy.” will be at the NOTL campus on April However, she warns that if there and Loan Centre, celebrates the launch of the centre’s new name in The BSL offers free business 12 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. On April 14 are assets such as a house or car the December 2009. seminars to all clients and will they will be at the Welland campuses owner could lose, business insur- Submitted photo “help you every step of the way,” cafeteria foyer from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Be ance is a must because everything, taken name has been chosen. Centre, the Niagara North and says McCreadie. sure to bring your personalized return including tax documentation, is The name a fi ve-year term and South Land Registry Offi ce and The BSL is open weekdays from with labels, a completed copy of your tied to the owner. McCreadie says it’s important to in Niagara Falls at the MacBain 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in Fort Erie, 2008 return, social insurance number, Registering a personal business keep track of the timeline so some- Centre. at 45 Jarvis St., and may be con- a list of dependants and dates of birth, requires the applicant to perform body else doesn’t potentially take After a business name has been tacted by phone at 905-871-7331, your income slips, receipts of expenses an $8 name search at an Ontario it. registered, another option for struc- or email at [email protected]. and other applicable documents. Connect terminal, and then submit Terminals to apply in person are turing is to enter a partnership. Resource information is available Winery Members wanted a $60 registration fee when an un- in St. Catharines at the Enterprise A partnership “is like a marriage at its website www.bslft.com. Niagara College Teaching Winery THANK YOU Wine Club is looking to gain a few more members. Members will enjoy THANK YOU select wines crafted by Niagara Col- THANK YOU lege students. Membership entitles you to receive two to six bottles per THANK YOU shipment. The wines will be delivered THANK YOU to your house or offi ce with notes on THANK YOU tasting and food accompaniments. For more information and how to join the THANK YOU supporting your club, visit www.nctwinery.ca or email [email protected]. THANK YOU Niagara College THANK YOU Bursary donations needed THANK YOU Community Paper A bursary has been established in For many years Avondale stores have the memory of Reilly Kennedy Anzo- THANK YOU vino, an 18-year-old Fort Erie woman THANK YOU generously distributed who died in a late-night accident on THANK YOU 2,400 copies of each Niagara News Highway 3 Dec. 26, 2009. The bursary issue across the Niagara Region. will be awarded to deserving students THANK YOU entering Niagara College’s Paramedic Avondale demonstrates how THANK YOU program. The goal is to raise at least good corporate citizens support THANK YOU $20,000. As of Feb. 23, donations student learning. have totaled $4,620. The Ontario Trust THANK YOU Student Support will match the dona- The staff of theNiagara News THANK YOU tions for a total of at least $20,000. wish to thank Avondale for its Donations can be made at the Build- THANK YOU past, current and future assistance. ing Futures Campaign website, www. THANK YOU buildingfuturescampaign.ca. Cheques can also be mailed to Ni- THANK YOU Please support Avondale Food Stores. agara College Foundation “in memory THANK YOU For additional sale items, please check: of Reilly Anzovino,” Maid of the Mist THANK YOU www.avondalestores.com Campus, or phone Helen Armstrong, student awards offi cer, ext. 7847. THANK YOU Page 10 NIAGARA NEWS March 19, 2010 ON CAMPUS

The fi lm will premier April 14, at 7 p.m. at the Welland campus. Submitted photo Film promotes sustainable homes

Niagara College students have ranked the school No. 1 in student satisfaction since 2004. Photo by Stephanie Couture By STEVE HENSCHEL about sustainable housing. Staff Writer The fi lm will be shown April 14, Housing that is sustainable in the Hamilton Room, at 7 p.m., may be a new idea, but a Niagara on the Welland campus. College graduate thinks students Matheson is promoting the fi lm KPI survey seeks honest need to know about this growing because his father is one of the concept. builders featured in the fi lm. Mike Matheson, a Niagara Falls For more information on electronics lab technologist and the fi lm and other details, visit 2002 Niagara College graduate, www.thevisualblueprint.com/ opinions from students will be presenting Greening the Greening_The_Cube__100-Mile_ Cube: 100 Mile Housing, a fi lm Housing.

By MICHELLE ANDERSON Cambray is glad that he chose Staff Writer to enroll in college, saying it has As the school year approaches ‘It’s something prepared him “more than it would its end, students are asked to break have if I hadn’t come.” TURN YOUR DIPLOMA out their Number 2 pencils and the school is very Cambray also says he will be give some honest feedback about able to fi nd work in the fi eld. INTO A DEGREE their courses. proud of.’ According to Niagara College’s Whether inquiring about the caf- — Nicole Vankekem Graduate Survey, which can be TWO eteria or faculty, Niagara College found on the school’s website, of students are asked to anonymously the 28 Welding Techniques stu- CAMPUSES spill it on the Key Performance Recruitment and admissions dents who graduated in summer or Indicator survey. co-ordinator for the graduate pro- fall 2007 and winter 2008, 65 per The Niagara College website grams, Katie Devereaux, thinks cent have found employment with has the data collected from surveys that getting feedback from students a related job. from the past several years. is always important, as it infl uences The college as a whole has 61 The site also gives a brief history decisions being made on their per cent of its 2,378 graduates of of the inception of the surveys. behalf. 2007-08, employed in their chosen “The Ministry of Training, Col- Student ambassador Nicole fi eld, with 89 per cent of graduates Study at one of our two campuses in Thunder Bay, ON and leges and Universities instituted a Vankekem feels that positive KPI listed as employed. Orillia, ON. Both are surrounded by the beautiful natural system of performance measures results are a good way to draw pro- By having students fi ll out post- environment and boast small class sizes, close interaction for its colleges in 1999. The mea- spective students to the college. grad surveys, prospective attendees with professors, and the latest in high technology. sures are called Key Performance “It’s something the school is can get an idea of a program’s suc- Indicators, or KPIs.” very proud of,” says Vankekem, cess and whether it is a good time Niagara College boasts a student who runs tours of Niagara College to dive into a particular fi eld. satisfaction level that exceeds for potential attendees. First-year student Myra Pisano TRANSFER 85 per cent for the past six years. She makes sure to tell the groups says the employment statistics for PROGRAMS As college pamphlets and post- about the high student satisfaction, her chosen program, Graphic De- ers read, “Niagara College still and adds, “They’re really happy sign, are irrelevant to her choice. number one.” they came to see the school.” Pisano says she would take A fi rst-year student who wishes Showing people a building does the program either way because not to be identifi ed thinks the KPIs not allow them a chance to experi- it’s what she is passionate about serve little purpose. ence student life here; however, doing. “I fi nd it’s a waste of time.” hearing feedback from students of- For students who value job She is not against the school fers a candid look behind the walls security, the statistics may act as using surveys, as a way to gauge of Niagara College. a tiebreaker between two desired We individually assess applicants for advancd standing from student satisfaction, as she says Welding Techniques student Tay- career paths. college programs for entry into one of our degree programs. that the program specifi c surveys lor Cambray has suggestions for As Devereaux says, “I think In addition, we offer Specifi c College Transfer Programs that (course evaluations, used to gain his professors that may not appear information should be available for maximize your credit transferability. feedback about teachers and on a multiple-choice scantron. students.” BUSINESSUSINESS EDUCATION ENGINEERINGENG course content) is a valid method Cambray would encourage staff KPI and other survey results help FORESTRY SOCIAL WORK of evaluation. to liven up lessons. potential students get an unbiased These are separately done each “They could make class more look at Niagara College and it’s Expand your education term for use here only. exciting,” he says, even adding a programs, while allowing current and reach your full potential. Because all participating col- Powerpoint slide show would spice students a chance to anonymously Lakehead University has the leges use the same questions on the up a boring lesson. speak to the people in charge. college transfer options that KPIs, the unnamed student feels Cambray says monotone lectures The fi ve minutes a semester it work for you. that information gathered isn’t leave students groggy and uneager takes to fi ll out the surveys can 1-800-465-3959 what should be used to improve to learn. help make important decisions for [email protected] www.lakeheadu.ca specifi c programs. Regardless of his complaints, potential Niagara students. March 19, 2010 NIAGARA NEWS Page 11 ON CAMPUS Print news faces future New media technology and changing readership a force of change

By THOMAS ROTELLA mobile phones. If we deliver the news people want to see or “We have to realize that if we want people to tune into Staff Writer read, then we still have a life.” what we’re saying, we have to realize that we’re in the busi- As fast as the speed of light, the news can come to us at the Martineau, of Niagara-on-the-Lake (NOTL), says that a ness of entertainment and in order to entertain, we have to click of a mouse, turn of a page or fl ip of a channel. website called NADbank (Newspaper Audience Databank) aim to different age groups.” It can come from many different sources: waking up with has all the research and statistics on the Canadian daily Students from colleges and universities in Ontario talk a copy of the daily newspaper; tuning in to the radio on the newspaper industry. about where they go to for their news (online, newspapers, ride to work, taking a lunch break with the world online or “Two years ago, stats showed that readership of newspa- television, radio): relaxing in front of the television for the 6 p.m. news. pers were up 9.8 per cent on a weekly basis, but had dropped But over the years, news in the form of print has changed, on a daily basis. Last year, the weekly readership increased mostly because readers and technology have changed. another 5.6 per cent. It shows that more and more people are Printed newspapers are still a primary source, but it seems reading the news, just as if a movement has taken place between online and printed not on a daily basis.” editions of the newspapers. Martineau says it’s the Dave Martineau, publisher with the Niagara Falls Review types of stories covered for the last three and a half years, says he thinks newspapers that determine the future still have a future, whether they are print or online. of the news. “There are still places prepared to pres- ent the news in any matter that people want to see it, whether it’s in print or on the internet, via Facebook, Twitter or through

Photos by Thomas Rotella Sara McIntosh, 20, Brock University, Concurrent Education program: “I defi nitely prefer to get my news online, as the Internet is more convenient for my busy lifestyle. In Adam Carter, Niagara College, between researching for an essay Welland campus, Broadcasting or chatting with friends, I can search program: what I want with a click of the mouse, “I read most of my news online and without having to fl ip through large mostly from cbc.ca, simply because ink-stained newspapers or listening to whatever time of the day it is I can broadcasters cover stories that have Nattalie Masterson, 21, Niagara go online and have the most up-to- no relevance to my interests or life.” College, Welland campus, Social date news. I check it whenever I want Service Worker program: and I rarely watch television so I don’t “I always get my news from two use it as much of a news source other sources. When I’m at home I get all my than for sports news. I do read the news from television, mostly because college’s paper though, the Niagara it’s just always on in the house. I also News. I usually pick one up and read David Morse, 19, Brock University, listen to the radio a lot, too. The station through it on the bus or over lunch or Political Science program: I listen to in the morning is 101.1 for something, but I don’t think I’d read it “I get my news from the Internet, the local news, and it’s convenient for if it were online though.” because, being a student, my computer me when I’m on the way to school or is almost always at hand and therefore work.” it is the most convenient form of media for me to keep up with.”

Scott McVey, 20, University of Western Ontario, London, Bachelor of Science Specialization in Kinesiology program: “I prefer to get my news from many diff erent sources, but mostly online or the newspaper. I don’t pay too much attention to television news because Kathleen Mylchreest, 21, Niagara it seems like it’s marketed in a way College, NOTL campus, Sales and that tailors to the societal stereotype Sarah Botbyl, 23, Brock University, Marketing program: of Western society. It’s always blood, Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Sociology “I prefer to get my news from the guts and despair, in an attempt to Isaac Dell, 19, Wilfrid Laurier, program: Internet because you can read any keep the audience’s attention. I enjoy Waterloo, Ont., Basic Kinesiology “I prefer to get my news from articles that interest you instead of the variety of online news, mostly and Physical Education program: newspapers because they’re well having to read or watch all the others. because it is targeted to the world “Television is the easiest source of organized and I can read what I want On the Internet it’s also easier to fi nd rather than just a single region. Sure, news for me and requires the least to read, instead of having to wait until the articles you are looking for: you I want to know about news that’s amount of work. It sounds lazy but the end of a program on television to don’t have to look through all the going on in my own backyard, but the it’s usually to the point and tells the hear the story that interests me most. other articles or watch the whole world’s news is just that much more most important points. I like to watch There is also more to read in the paper hour of television. You can just search interesting. The only problem with sports news and global news the than on television because of a wider for it and click, you’re there. Getting online news is the chance that it may most. It’s really interesting to know variety of stories like entertainment news from the Internet is also more or may not be true. But that can be what is going on in other parts of the and advice columns. I fi nd there’s more convenient because you can get the easily fi xed by looking up the facts via worlds as well.” depth in a daily newspaper.” news whenever you want.” another source.” Page 12 NIAGARA NEWS March 19, 2010 ON CAMPUS

Battle of the bands draws huge crowd By MADISON in Ontario. “I always bring more sticks,” Gentry, and then to O’Dell, with Show at the Mansion House in St. SAMUEL-BARCLAY The four bands competing per- Underwood chuckled. “You should the band’s main infl uences of Rev- Catharines on April 15. Staff Writer formed before an enthusiastic room always bring three pairs.” erend Horton Heat, the Legendary In the end, however, only one March 12 saw the end of Student and a panel of three judges: Matt The third band of the night, an- Shack Shakers, and the Misfi ts (the band could move on. The Man- Music Week at Niagara College in a Dell, former Campus Idol winner, other three-piece that also hailed band covered the Misfi ts’ One Last hattan Project was chosen with fl ash of guitars, drums, keyboards, Paul Savoy, singer and bartender from Niagara Falls, was Tom Skoal. Caress to end their set). positive comments and high scores and even harmonicas. at Niagara College’s Niagara- The band consists of brothers Julian The name Chainsaw Lobotomy from the judges. It will be moving The fi nale of the week-long event on-the-Lake campus; and agency Finbow on base and vocals Kyle was a last-minute title before the on to the regional fi nals in Windsor took place at the Welland campus representative Pete Monroy. Finbow on guitar and vocals, and band’s fi rst show. on March 27. After Hours pub at 8 p.m. in the The fi rst band was Niagara Jake Antonio on drums. The band “I was trying to be as disgusting You can check form of Niagara College’s annual Falls-based The Manhattan Proj- performed a solid set, though there as possible,” Iafrate laughed, out The Man- Battle of the Bands. ect. Taking its name from the were a few technical diffi culties adding that the thought of an hattan Project The event, sponsored by the infamous historical experiment with their equipment. actual “chainsaw lobotomy” atwww.mys- Canadian Organization of Campus that eventually led to the creation Drummer Antonio met the Fin- was somewhat humorous in pace.com/ Activities (COCA), sees the winner of the atomic bomb, the four-piece bow brothers through football. His itself, and humour fi t the tmpmusic. head to the Canadian Music Explo- band consists of Anthony Visca on father and the brothers’ father were mood of the band. sion regional fi nals, where the win- vocals and bass, Mike Greco on both coaches. Later Antonio would “It’s about trying? to ning band from Niagara College guitar, Dave D’Angelo on guitar be approached by the brothers control emotions,” Iafrate plays against other participating and keyboard and Michael Keays about his drumming, and the band adds about the band’s name, cit- colleges in that region in Windsor, on drums. They started the evening was formed. ing the lobotomy procedure used Ont., on March 27. The regional off right with a string of their own The fi nal band of the evening in mental institutions to control fi nalists then move to McMaster original songs and a cover of Kings was the only group of the night to certain patients. University for the provincial fi nals, of Leon’s Sex On Fire. have its own harmonica solo. Chainsaw Lobotomy’s origi- with a chance to win $1,000. The second band was The Es- Chainsaw Lobotomy, consist- nal songs were titled with equal Glenn Murray, Niagara College caper, another Niagara Falls-based ing of Rick Iafrate on guitar and oddity, with names like Road- Student Administrative Council’s band. The three-piece band, consist- vocals, Keenan Gentry on bass and side Taxidermy and Withinsan- (SAC) logistics manager, says it’s ing of Anthony Botting on guitar, Ryan O’Dell on drums, brought ity, which Iafrate described as more about the exposure than the Jay Newlands on bass, and James their own brand of “psychobilly” a song about “being deemed money, however. Underwood on drums, continued punk rock to the stage, drawing a insane when it’s just a different “It’s about developing talent than the night with a harder sound. bit of a crowd in the process. way of thinking.” discovery,” Murray says. Underwood broke his drumsticks Iafrate was introduced to the Chainsaw Lobotomy is- Last year’s winning band re- on the fi rst song. He later reached unique psychobilly genre in high booked for the next two months, ceived an “auto-gigs,” for example, into a supply bag of drumsticks for school through a group called The with various show dates set, such at various colleges and universities back-up. Matadors. His addiction spread to as the opening act for the Creep The minimum wage is going up.

If you're an employer, here's what you need to know.

General Students under Liquor Server Hunting & Fishing Hunting & Fishing Homeworkers (people 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) per week or during hours in a day whether or not the a school holiday hours are consecutive

Current wage rate $9.50/hour $8.90/hour__ $8.25/hour $47.50 $95.00 110% of the minimum wage

Mar. 31, 2010 $10.25/hour $9.60/hour__ $8.90/hour $51.25 $102.50 110% of the minimum wage wage rate

On March 31, 2010, the general minimum wage will increase to $10.25 per hour from the current rate of $9.50 per hour. To find out more about how the new minimum wage guidelines affect employers and employees, call or visit the Ministry of Labour web site. Top: The audience packed in around the stage at Niagara College’s Battle of the Bands. Paid for by the Government of Ontario Right: Battle winner Anthony Visca of The Manhattan Project. Bottom: Rick Iafrate (left) and Keenan Gentry (right) of Chainsaw Lobotomy. Photos by Mike Eybell 1-800-531-5551 www.ontario.ca/minimumwage March 19, 2010 NIAGARA NEWS Page 13 LIFESTYLES Suff ering and self-sacrifi ce: Common themes run deep in various world religions

By JOSH GRANT-YOUNG play a role in Buddhist thought, as Staff Writer he preserved the teaching of Karma. Suffering, contrary to popular Karma is, simply put, consequence belief, isn’t running out of orange for every action. Buddhists and juice. Hindus believe what form you are The multi faith chaplaincy reincarnated into is based on the discussion panel met March 9 theory of Karma. to discuss suffering in various “You are accountable for every religions. Dr. David Goicoechea, action, for every word, everything professor emeritus of philosophy you do.” at Brock University, Professor and Fic is working on her second writer Alexandra Fic and multi book focusing on Buddhism. The faith chaplaincy adviser Mehdi book is based on Siddhartha’s Wolf were present to discuss tra- memories of his past 550 lives ditions in Christianity, Judaism, before his birth as a Buddha. Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism and Many in the audience raised an the Baha’i faith. Reverend Prince eyebrow at the number. However, Conteh, the college’s multi faith Fic reassured them that many of the chaplain, chaired the event. tales associated with Siddhartha’s Goicoechea, in lecture format, life were “passed down from oral discussed the concepts of suffering tradition” and should be expected in Judaism and Christianity, draw- to be odd. ing parallels between the canon Wolf, the fi nal speaker, rep- of both faiths. Comparing Jewish resented the Islam and Baha’i fi gures like Adam, Moses and Dr. David Goicoechea, professor emeritus of philosophy at Brock University, Professor and writer Alexandra religious traditions. Despite the David with Jesus and his followers Fic and multi faith chaplaincy adviser Mehdi Wolf took part in a discussion panel on suff ering in various treatment of Baha’i people in Iran, writings on suffering and redemp- religious traditions on March 9. a Muslim majority, Wolf drew tion, Goicoechea concluded that Photos by Josh Grant-Young many parallels between Baha’i and suffering is not only a major theme schools of Islam. in Jewish tradition but translates The Baha’i religion is a young into a positive force in both Jewish Abrahamic faith, having roots in and Christian thought. Judaism, Christianity and Islam. With Judaism, Goicoechea noted Baha’is strive to create religious that major stories in the Torah and and social unity in the pursuit of Tanakh deal with the suffering of global peace. the Jewish people for two reasons: The Baha’i faith was founded testing and redemption. In the story by Bahá’u’lláh, who is believed of Adam and David, these fi gures by followers to be the fi nal prophet and their kin suffer as a result of of God, who places emphasis their transgressions and are pun- on the Bab, another fi gure who ished before redeeming themselves. Bahá’u’lláh had followed before Job, a man in the Tanakh, is tested founding the Baha’i religion. by God to prove his steadfast faith Wolf presented various ideas on despite the hardships he endures how Islam and the Baha’i faith both and is justly rewarded. view suffering in a similar manner. In Christianity, the concept of Suffering, as Wolf puts it, is not suffering is surprisingly positive. because God wants to indiscrimi- Jesus, the Christian Messiah, is a nately punish. Suffering comes in central fi gure who suffers so that two forms: trials and punishment. “all fl esh may be saved,” a concept Some, as Wolf put it, need to be Goicoechea reinforced later follow- tested in faith while others need ing questions. The early Christian to be punished for wickedness. faith is a tradition in which suffer- This sentiment is common in all ing for one’s faith is seen as a noble Alexandra Fic, professor at Brock University and chair of the Employment Insurance Board for the Niagara Abrahamic faiths and further practice, with numerous saints who Region, speaks to the audience about Buddhism and suff ering while Dr. David Goicoechea looks on. explained by `Abdu’l-Bahá , the suffered and died in order to save, eldest son of Bahá’u’lláh. convert or teach others the message “To attain eternal happiness one of their faith. must suffer. He who has reached Fic’s coverage of the Buddhist bated,” Fic noted as she explained In Buddhist tradition, life is pain, prince in India and lived a pleasant the state of self-sacrifi ce has true and Hindu tradition was particu- Buddhist tradition, which took up but not the “running out of orange and comfortable life. However, one joy. Temporal joy will vanish.” larly intriguing, as she has traveled most of her speaking time. The juice” kind of pain, Fic says. The day, he is said to have left the pal- The last event in the multi faith to numerous countries in South number of traditions and schisms evolution of Buddhism is rooted in ace he lived in and witness a beg- panel discussion will be held Asia, giving her a panoramic view within Buddhism have made the some Hindu ideas, as the Buddha gar, a sick elderly person, a dead April 13 on Niagara College’s of numerous Buddhist traditions topic often too generalized, a prob- Siddhartha Gautama was raised body and an ascetic (a religious Welland Campus in Lundy 3 around the globe. lem Fic easily avoided by intensely Hindu. tradition in India of denying your- from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The “The Four Noble Truths and focusing on certain schools and Siddhartha Gautama’s life plays self worldly pleasures for spiritual topic is dialogue between Abraha- Eight Precepts are the only thing offering succinct answers when a major role in understanding Bud- improvement). mic faiths with Rev. Prince Conteh all schools agree on. The rest is de- questioned. dhism. Gautama was born as a Gautama’s Hindu upbringings chairing. Chileans in need of aid following massive quake By EMILY YATES March 22 to raise donations for the and food sales to help raise money opment. by the emotional after-shock of the Staff Writer desperate nation. for Chile. Nolle will be travelling to Chile quake. Feb. 27 brought with it a dev- A fundraiser at the Armoury stu- “[The event] is just to [come out] mid-May to endorse the college Students are able to donate astating 8.8 level earthquake that dent centre in the NOTL campus and have a good time, good music and education in Canada overall. at both events on the campus’ rocked the Chilean nation. will take place on March 24. and help the people of Chile at the Unlike Haiti, Niagara College or can donate to World Vi- The latest numbers are at around Javiera Ortiz, member of the same time,” say’s Ortiz. has a number of students enrolled sion at www.worldvission.ca. 400 dead and 1.5 million affected Chilean Group and culinary man- “They’ll be fun events. All the through the international depart- Donations can also be made by the quake. agement student at the NOTL proceeds after expenses will go to ment from Chile. at UNICEF.ca/Chile and Niagara College is holding two campus encourages people to come Chile,” say’s Jos Nolle, director of Counselling is offered to any www.redcross.ca/Donate fundraisers during the week of out. There will be free live music international education and devel- Chilean students feeling distressed www.worldvision.ca. Page 14 NIAGARA NEWS March 19, 2010 ON CAMPUS Networking post-grad St. Patrick’s Day

By APRIL STEWART relationship with the college by Staff Writer forwarding regular communica- celebrations at If you’re a graduate or are tion via our website, e-bulletin and planning on graduating soon, the encore newsletter, thus keeping Niagara College Foundation and them aware of the good news at the Welland Campus Alumni Relations team wants you college and providing them oppor- to know they’re offering you their tunities such as homecoming, curl- support. ing tournaments and reunions to The GradSmart initiative was de- reconnect with former classmates, veloped in the 2008-2009 academic staff and faculty,” says Steve Cino, year. The goal is to help graduat- alumni co-ordinator. ing students transition to the next “We also attempt to fi nd group stage of their lives, whether it be to discount programs and services further their education or enter the that are needed by graduates. For work world. example, we offer discounts on “We offer support in whichever home and car insurance through path they choose, and our support Johnson Insurance, discount rates continues beyond their time as a via MBNA Mastercard, health, student at Niagara College,” says Elise Auger is helping grads dental and life insurance through Elise Auger, alumni relations and make their impact through the Canada Life and excellent mort- GradSmart liaison. GradSmart program. gage rates through the National Last year, the college did a Submitted Photo Group Mortgage program,” says graduating survey and class visita- Cino. tions to determine what graduating More information on these plans students were looking for as they gin, was held on Dec. 2, 2009. and other discounts such as CAA prepare for graduating. Based on “The event was a tremendous membership reductions, Bell wire- the results, a GradSmart Vedor fair success. Students had the opportu- less plans, and discount rates for was held featuring education and nity to network with some commu- the Toronto Raptors is outlined on employment opportunities, and nity leaders and recent graduates. the website, www.niagaracollege. alumni benefi ts and services. This Blair Pollard, vice-president, or- ca/alumni. year a GradSmart Student Advi- ganization development Canadian Service is also provided by the sory Committee was developed Tire Corporation Ltd., spoke to Job Centre to provide free access comprising of students from gradu- the group about what employers to a professional online resumé and ate studies and degree programs. are looking for when hiring new portfolio builder, Optimal Resumé, The group meets once a month to employees.” to assist graduates in getting a discuss GradSmart plans. The team wants to profi le the ac- competitive edge in a challenging “The committee plays a huge complishments of both the college economy. role in promoting our initiatives and its graduates, demonstrating The Job Centre is open from 8:30 to their classmates and other stu- the value of a college education a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays and dents,” says Auger. and the positive impact of Niagara can be reached at 905 641-2252 Based on the results of a survey College on the community. ext. 4165, at the NOTL campus From left, Chris Dube, Adam Pope, Mike McIintosh. and input from the committee, the “We try to encourage our or 905-735-2211, ext. 7777, at the Photos by Stephanie Couture fi rst event, Let the Networking Be- graduates to maintain a lifelong Welland campus.

Front from left, Carrie Pahowski, Jeff Sebanc, Melissa Ivany Growing a home business Back: Adam Pope, Mandi Montour. By JULIA BOUCHER explains. meet the wishes of her growing Staff Writer Ricci admits, “At fi rst, the amount of clients. Getting down to business re- money just wasn’t there, but it was But, with her business far off the quires more than just saying it. probably after a year or so when I ground, Ricci is taking time off to Once obtaining her hairdresser realized just how big of a clientele go back to school to fulfi ll her other certifi cate, Elisa Ricci, 22, knew an I had and quit my other job.” passion – animals. hourly wage at a salon was not in She also knew that with her “I’m going back to school be- her cards. business expanding there was a lot cause I eventually want to start my With that in mind, she slowly more work involved. own animal daycare while continu- began a business out of her home. “I had to get a more formal set- ing my hairdressing,” Ricci says. “At the beginning I had a part- up and come up with a price list for “I know it will take much more time job and only did my friends’ just about everything and I real- work and I will probably need help, hair in the evening,” she explains. ized that it costs money to make but I know it is worth it.” “I began to learn that it is all money.” So, with great ambition and about the quality of work you do She now has to make weekly hard work, Ricci was able to start because my friends began refer- visits to the beauty supply store and a successful hairdressing business ring their friends to me. It was like has to ensure she has every product and hopes her future will be just as a trickling effect,” she excitedly that could be needed in order to successful with her new venture. New face at college fi nance desk By RACHEL PRIVETT in the development, implementa- years (supervisor, fi nance) and the Staff Writer tion and maintenance of college private sector (senior accountant/ The fi nancial face of Niagara fi nancial services in the areas analyst) for two years. College has changed. of budgets, fi nancial reporting, Malvaso chose to work at Ni- Vince Malvaso has been with Ni- purchasing, accounts payable, ac- agara “because of the challenge agara College since April 2003, and counting, payroll, student accounts, and the excitement of working in in January 2010 he was promoted insurance and all fi nancial auditing the positive environment of post to director of fi nancial services. requirements.” secondary education.” “I was in the acting director Before his new role with Niagara “Although the job is demand- fi nancial services role from May College, Malvaso held an abun- ing, and you can never know what 2009 to January 2010. I was offi - dance of different positions. to expect each day, I would have cially appointed to the position on “I was the manager, budgets it no other way. I feel fortunate Jan. 25,” says Malvaso. and accounting, since April 2003 to be part of the great team at As director of fi nancial services, for Niagara College. Prior to my Niagara College and to work with Malvaso is “accountable for the arrival at Niagara College I was an outstanding team in Financial management of college funds and in the municipal sector for four Services,” says Malvaso. March 19, 2010 NIAGARA NEWS Page 15 OFF CAMPUS Historically signifi cant canals Local Welland Canal Advocate works to protect waterways

By SETH HENNESSY After the hikers cross the train Staff Writer tracks and climbing over fallen Taking a wrong turn in down- trees, one member of the hike town St. Catharines may leave makes a revelation. you in a beautiful place. “I used to swim there,” says The second annual Family Day Edna Groff, pointing to an empty Hike run by the Welland Canal fi eld. Advocate (WCA), began Feb. 15 After water levels dropped, there on Westchester Avenue. were still small pools of water left The fi ve-kilometre hike was including Granny’s Creek where led by the WCA’s publisher, Rene Groff used to swim. Russler, and his partner, Shana Personal memories still exist in Matthews. the depths of St. Catharines’ past, It is a colder hike but this year but the future is erasing other Russler’s storytelling and facts memories. warm the hikers. At the end of the hike, Russler The “optimum dream” for Rus- uses his walking stick to outline sler and other supporters of historic in the snow where Lock 14 rests preservation in St. Catharines is to under the new Sobeys on Glendale see the canals acknowledged for Avenue. their importance. Russler does not speak bitterly Bob Watson was along for the about new buildings or that the day and is a member of the St. canal has not been kept up. Catharines Heritage Committee. He knows that any fault is He does not think many residents multi-layered and impossible to know about the scattered locks that assign, but he is saddened when a remain. forgotten canal stone, half covered “Most people couldn’t point in snow and bush, is found. out the second canal,” he says but “It’s a bloody shame,” he says, still feels they are worth knowing but walks on. about. Earlier in the walk when the “It’s a neat part of history.” path looked less beaten and the The WCA and other community group looked to him for direction, groups hope to raise enough aware- he simply replied, “We’ll blaze ness so the canals can be designated our own trail.” as national historic sites. This will Rene Russler claims to not be an expert on the canals but is never lost for words when asked about them. Emily Mazi, 24, found the day ensure protection and the ability to Photo by Seth Hennessy delightful. maintain what is left of them. that day, marine technology devel- is evident that these factories no enough that a truck and grappling “I thoroughly enjoyed the hike. Since 1847, money problems oped, so many of the canals’ uses longer exist. hooks are necessary to clean it It was awesome to see the histori- have swamped the canals’ chances “became obsolete.” To fi x a simple problem today, it up. cal signifi cance.” at receiving steady maintenance. After some settlement took would take a lot of money out of “It would take a couple of thou- Although Russler was not in “John A. MacDonald commis- place, factories sprouted around funds that do not yet exist. sand dollars just to get a few out, earshot, he might be glad to know sioned the fi rst one,” says Russler. the canals using the relayed wa- Grocery carts are thrown into and then they’d be back again,” Mazi’s future plans. But within 50 to 60 years since ter as hydraulic power. Today it the water and sticking in the mud says Russler. “I am defi nitely coming back.” From Sarnia to Vancouver as a domestic assistant By APRIL STEWART as a nurse, but I didn’t have the she stumbled across something Not being too fond of her home I love it here, I never ever want Staff Writer money to fi nish the program at the that would spark her interest: town anymore and desperately to go back, and I get paid pretty The bright rays of the mid-April time,” says Glezner. families from different cities, or wanting to travel and experience well too!” sun shone through the blinds and Since jobs were hard to come by even countries, looking for an au a big change in her life, Glezner Glezner has been in Vancouver woke 21-year-old Jenny Glezner in Sarnia and surrounding areas, pair. didn’t hesitate to look farther and for two years and doesn’t have any minutes before her alarm set for 7 Glezner decided to look online. An au pair is a foreign-national eventually came in contact with plans to come back to Ontario. a.m., an alarm also set to start her She came across sites asking for domestic assistant working for, and families looking to hire. on her new life. students to study abroad, and then living as part of, a host family. “It was about the next day that Not getting much sleep the I got word back from at least ‘I absolutely adore night before, Glezner rolled out of six different families, ranging bed and accomplished all of her from China to 20 minutes away the families. I love morning rituals in record time. from my house,” says Glezner. Somehow gripping fi ve suitcases After numerous emails and phone it here, I never fi lled with clothes, toiletries and calls, she fi nalized her plans with personal possessions, she waddled the fi rst family she thought she ever want to go down the stairs to bid her family suited. her last farewells. Within months, Glezner was back, and I get Glezner then said goodbye to on her way to Vancouver, having paid pretty well her home town of Sarnia, Ont., had her fl ight paid for by her host and travelled four hours to To- family. too!’ ronto where she would board a “I was nervous to meet fi ve-hour fl ight to her new home them at fi rst, but more excited — Jenny Glezner in Vancouver, B.C. than anything,” says Glezner. Glezner graduated from St. She arrived in Vancouver and “I wish I had done this sooner. Christopher’s High School in found herself looking after two I’m going to earn enough money 2006 and took a year off before young boys in a home of four. here, then enrol in a program here enrolling at Lambton College for She also takes time out of her so I can become a nurse,” says the Pre-Health program. new busy life to babysit for an- Glezner. “I really liked the program and other family, who has two young Information about the au pair- Jennifer Glezner moved across Canada to live and help out with a busy want to continue to pursue work- girls. ing programs can be found at family. ing within a hospital, hopefully Submitted photo “I absolutely adore the families. www.aupairworld.net. Page 16 NIAGARA NEWS March 19, 2010 SHAW SPECIAL Smart spending Employees want security pays off By TAMARAH NEILL He says it was about a month Staff Writer ago that union members from Given today’s economy, “very other departments voted to stand with surplus few people can afford to be poor.” beside and support their “brothers By STEPHANIE COUTURE Those were the words displayed and sisters.” Staff Writer on Stage Production Technician “The management team at Shaw The Shaw Festival is closing the Peter Gracie’s bright green picket Festival was well aware locking curtain on its debt. sign on March 13, as he and a out the Facilities Department em- The prestigious Niagara-on-the- dozen other Shaw Festival Pro- ployees would result in a strike,” Lake theatre announced in January duction, Facilities, and Audience says Furminger. it has been able to eliminate the Services Departments employees According to an IATSE press debt accumulated through an on- stood outside the Royal George release, numerous efforts have and-off again defi cit over the past Theatre on Queen Street, Niag- been put forth by the Local 461 fi ve years. ara-on-the-Lake, for the fourth to attain a still non-existent con- “We’ve been able to do this consecutive day. tract for members of the Facilities thanks to very frugal spending on Gracie, like the other picketers, Department of the Shaw Festival, our parts and also thanks to a gift is a union member of the Local “but the remaining issue is the Fes- from a patron who passed away 461 International Alliance of The- tival’s desire to have the ability to and remembered us in her will,” atrical Stage Employees (IATSE) replace, in whole or in part, union says Odette Yazbeck, public rela- working at the Shaw Festival’s employees with others who would tions director at the Shaw. three venues. work under a contract service.” Mona Campbell, the late theatre At about 5 p.m. on March 10, The lockout has Furminger and patron and long-time Shaw Festival as a result of an unresolved labour employees from other departments supporter, left an unrestricted gift dispute ongoing since August 2008, concerned with the language used of nearly $3 million for the theatre the Shaw’s 16 Local 461 Facilities in their own contracts. to do with as it pleased. Department employees, which in- Tom Hurst, Local 461 member Every year the Shaw Festival clude housekeepers, maintenance and stage production technician, sets an operating budget, covered workers and groundskeepers, were says the Shaw Festival is the “sec- by its revenues. In 2009, annual told by Shaw management not to ond-largest theatre of its kind in revenues from all sources were come back to work. North America, and should have no $25.86 million; 57 per cent came With preview shows scheduled problem negotiating with IATSE. from the box offi ce, 31 per cent to begin at the end of this month, “We do what we do better than employees say the company could anyone else. Some of us, we’ve Peter Gracie, a stage production technician for the Shaw Festival, from fundraising, seven per cent grins and bears the wind and rain for his fellow Local 461 IATSE union from government grants and fi ve be jeopardizing this year’s season. been doing it at the Shaw for as Picketers explain the disagree- long as the Shaw has been here.” members in the Facilities Department. per cent from other revenues. The Photo by Tamarah Neill expenses for that year rounded to ment isn’t over money, but rather Hurst and his colleagues agreed a total of $24.1 million, leaving the job security. that should mean something. ever. We’re thankful for that, and the talent and dedication of its theatre with a surplus of $1.76 mil- Scott Furminger, Shaw’s change- Town residents and busi- it shows us we at least matter to employees “is getting ridiculous lion, higher than its 2008 surplus of over electrician and Local 461 nesses have been “more than somebody.” and lacking respect.” $222,000. member, has worked for the theatre supportive and incredibly help- Another man, who asked to re- The group says they will stay for 20 years and says many of those ful,” says Hurst. main nameless as a result of prior right where they are until the Shaw joining him at the line have been “People have been dropping off confl ict with management, says Festival agrees to renegotiate all there just as long, if not longer. doughnuts, coffee, pizza, what- the festival’s failure to recognize three departments’ contracts. ‘We went on sale during one of the most signifi cant An inside look at the Shaw Festival economic melt- downs.’ Th e show must go on and backstage folks make it so —Odette Yazbeck By STEPHANIE COUTURE make fi nal decisions, set budgets, hat-lady who creates authentic ting it was everyday attire.” Staff Writer do casting, fi nd directors, costume headwear that may or may not be Not only was seeing props amaz- There are three main ingredients designers and so on. Sets come to touched more than once during a ing but so was seeing the empty in theatre – the play, the actors and life in September while props are play, the Shaw has it all and indi- theatre, explains Foerster. Standing Yazbeck says it is a “complex the audience – but at the Shaw beginning to be worked on in No- vidual rooms dedicated for each in a dark auditorium with hun- rollercoaster ride” and they are Festival it is about the behind-the- vember; in February the costumes craft. dreds of empty seats and rows constantly learning and getting new scenes staff. are sewn and stitched. “We have it down to a science and rows of lights with a half- ideas for the fi nancing challenges. Before the doors open to theatre The Shaw is not necessarily a here at the Shaw,” says Yazbeck. built set where her voice can echo She went on to say there are “fac- lovers, before the actors can bow magical world builder but has the “We are working with some of the overwhelmed her. tors beyond their control” and they and before the curtains can close, ability to bring the modern world best actors and behind-the-scenes “It felt unreal to know that what are hoping for the best but at the sets must be built, costumes back into an era that is unfamiliar staff, and our technical support looks like unfi nished work would same time watch what they spend must be hemmed and props must to some. we have here is outstanding. Our look like a whole new world in and market more aggressively. be made. The bottom fl oor of the Shaw production values are the envy of just a couple weeks,” says Bryson The Shaw Festival has an eco- Since 1962 the Shaw Festival has Festival is almost like Alice falling theatre companies in the world Densmore, a BRTF student. nomic impact of roughly $76.6 created hundreds of 18th century into the rabbit hole. over, so we do have a pretty great Long after they found their way million annually, provides 1,150 plays. Audiences have been front Instead of tiny doors and larger system.” out of the maze of hallways, the year-round jobs in the Niagara and centre experiencing a world of doors, there is a maze of hallways, Walking around the Shaw is an experience caused them to come region and draws an estimated corsets, bonnets, long-line jackets each leading to an unexpected and experience akin to walking at the away with a new appreciation for 78,300 tourists. and patented safety skirts never exciting world. North Pole, seeing elves at their theatre and the process. “We went on sale during one stepping behind the curtains into “Being able to see how plays all station, but instead of building “It is really interesting to see how of the most signifi cant economic a world where imagination comes comes together is indescribable trains and dolls, they are craft- many people there are behind the meltdowns,” says Yazbeck. “There to life. and makes me appreciate the art ing scenes of years past and scenes, and that it takes every one is absolutely nothing we can do “The process of starting off a sea- of Shaw even more than I thought making an era come alive in the of those people working together about the fact that the fi nancial son at the Shaw is rather lengthy,” possible,” says Elise Foerster, a present. to make the show a success,” says world is crumbling around us and says Odette Yazbeck, public rela- Broadcasting – Radio, Television “I have a love for fashion, so Foerster. “When you actually we are asking people to buy tickets tions director. “Almost a whole and Film (BRTF) student here. walking into the wardrobe room go and see a play, it never really to our festival.” year goes by before plays start.” The Shaw Festival, which has made me speechless,” says Kylie crosses your mind how much work “We are going to work on a stra- Yazbeck breaks down the four theatres, seating a total of Campbell, a BRTF student. “I did was put into it.” tegic plan, make sure what we are 12-month cycle of putting together 1,724 spectators, has approximate- not understand the intense process “I am forever going to look at spending is being spent carefully, a season at the Shaw. ly 20 staff members. and dedication it takes to put to- theatre and the process in a posi- look at our budget carefully and In the months of February and From set design to those who gether a play and [I] got to see and tive light,” says Campbell. “It is continue to produce some of the March, she says the staff begins play with hair for an average of touch modern fashion from years not just seeing a play anymore; it is best theatre in North America.” by looking at plays; in July they 40 hours to make one wig, to the before I was born, almost forget- an experience.” March 19, 2010 NIAGARA NEWS Page 17 SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW SHAWFESTIVAL SPECIAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL The Shaw Festival’s costume designers and makers are responsible for the wonderful clothing worn by actors onstage. SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAWPhotos FE byS StephanieTIVA CoutureL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL

WigsSHAW need models FESTIVAL and actors need wigs at the SHAW Shaw. FESTIVALCostumes wait patientlySHAW for their debutFESTIVAL on stage. SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL SHAW FESTIVAL Handmade hats sit ready for this season of the Shaw. Public Relations Director Odette Yazbeck works on a soon-to-be-fi nished wig for a play at the Shaw. Page 18 Niagara News — March 19, 2010 Page 19 Pure Wrestling slamsslams After Hours

By AARON JANKOWSKI Staff Writer Where there were tables and chairs only a few hours ago, a square circle now rests, black, red and white ropes pulled taut. The crowd slowly trickles in, starting with only a handful but quickly growing to about 80. David Decibles, the ring announcer, steps through the ropes and stands in the ring. Zakk Atticus enters the ring the difficult way before defending He introduces Joey Allen, Allen’s music plays and everyone in After Hours on the his New Tradition title against Gable Saint. Welland campus waits. And waits. After some delay, Decibles, whose real name is David Danboise, of St. Catharines, and a first-year Broadcasting-Radio, Television and Film student at Niagara College, gives Allen another introduction, and this time, he comes storming out to the ring. His counterpart, EZE Eric Cairnie, comes to the ring next, draped in a Canadian flag. The bell rings, and an evening of PWA Niagara wrestling begins. Before the first bell rang, the men who inevitably would be screaming, trash- talking and throwing each other around the ring, were leisurely strolling into After Hours. Shaking familiar hands and exchanging pleasantries, it was just another day at work. Matteo Cintione, 29, of Niagara Falls, who wrestles under the name Tony Stickball Carbonie and will later lose his tag team championship, stands at the bar, looking at the ring and smiles. “It’s a tough and dirty business,” he says, but the big man, who has wrestled in 30 different federations since 2003, is committed to making it big. So is his tag team partner, Carmen Scordino, 26, of Niagara Falls, who wrestles as Primo Scordino. Eddie Osbourne makes Too Sweet Pistol Pete smile for the camera while Topher Whiteman, who would later pin Pete, trash He drove to Welland from Kentucky, fresh from a two-day World Wrestling talks. Osbourne, left, and Jessy Jones take the battle out of the ring Entertainment (WWE) tryout. His pursuit of the WWE has been seven years and and to the bar in After Hours, on the Welland campus. counting, but he “doesn’t plan on stopping any time soon.” Scordino and Cintione’s never-give-up attitude is echoed throughout the PWA Niagara. “[I’m] not stopping until I get to the WWE,” says Jesse Scott, 28, of Fort Erie, a Niagara College graduate of the General Arts and Science program. Scott, who wrestles as JT Playa, has been at it for about 10 years and even ran his own wrestling company for five years. The night saw four championship title fights. The first was Zakk Atticus, who defended his New Tradition title against Gabe Saint in the second match of the evening, one that was full of crude jokes and outstanding showmanship by Atticus, who got the audience into the show for the first time. The second was the PrimaDonna title, which Krystal Banks defended in a three- way match against Sabrina Kyle and Jennifer Blake. Scordino and Cintione, who wrestle as The Italianos, lost their Tag Team title to the team of The T-Rex Express, Troy Buchannan and Rex Atkinsand. The final match of the evening was an impromptu match for the PWA Niagara Heavyweight title, in which an already beaten and bloody Too Sweet Pistol Pete, the self proclaimed oldest man wrestling in Ontario at 43, defeated Ron Falco.

One half of T-Rex, Rex Atkins attempts to pin Primo Atticus begs for mercy from Saint, before eventually pinning Scotty Turner tries to get a submission out of Niagara College Scordino for the tag team titles. The pin was unsuccessful, him to defend his title. alumni, JT Playa. but T-Rex ended up winning anyway.

All photos by Aaron Jankowski Page 20 NIAGARA NEWS March 19, 2010 OFF CAMPUS Drum’s rhythm like a heartbeat Celebrating women’s rights in Fort Erie By HEIDI GRZESINA of their regalia swirled in perfect harmony Staff Writer with the songs offered by drummers. Three-month-old Karlie Hill was not Onlookers such as Megan Klauck, holding disturbed at all by the reverberating sound her son, Carson James Klauk, were clearly of the drum, contentedly sleeping as though mesmerized observing the proceedings. the drumbeat was her heartbeat. “They [the dancers] t have his total atten- The Fort Erie Native Friendship Centre, tion,” says Klauk. (FENFC), 769 Buffalo Rd., hosted its 15th Attendees in the fi lled-to-capacity hall annual mid-winter powwow March 6 and stood until the invocation ceremony was Hill was sound asleep in the arms of Jen- complete and when invited to do so, joined nifer Dockstader, president of the board of in the dancing together. directors. “This is our fi rst year here,” says vendor “The drumbeat is our heartbeat,” says Leona Sabourin, “but we will be back. This Dockstader, “It is a connection the child im- is a wonderful time for a powwow. After mediately understands.” a long winter, this is just what we need to In the week that also marks International come together again and to hopefully en- Women’s Day March 8, it is of signifi cance courage spring to begin.” that Natives say the drum is symbolic of Vendors lined the perimeter walls of the women’s rights and of the obligations to hall offering their cultural wares for sale. their communities. Outside the hall, a rummage sale offered An ancient Native prophecy, telling tables of bargains. of strangers that would come to the land The FENFC has a mission statement to “turning lives upside down,” warns when enhance all aspects of Native life while ex- the trees start dying from the top down, the tending friendship to the community. time has come for women to “take back the Services offered are: health and wellness, drum.” health outreach, mental health, long life Artist Burt Anderson sees the prophecy is care, Aboriginal alcohol and drug workers, now being fulfi lled. family support, prenatal nutrition, employ- The vision statement of FENFC, “Togeth- ment units and education services, includ- er for a Stronger Tomorrow,” was evident as ing literacy base skills. dancers from near and far entered the hall For more information, visit the website, in the Grand Entry and the brilliant colours www.fenfc.org, or call 905-871-8931. Men’s Fancy Grass dancer.

Cultural treasures for sale at Fort Erie Native Friendship Centre’s powwow March 6. Photos by Heidi Grzesina

Vendor Leona Sabourin displays her merchandise to young shoppers at the Fort Erie Fancy Shawl Dancer. Native Friendship Centre’s Powwow. March 19, 2010 NIAGARA NEWS Page 21 OFF-CAMPUS Teaching environmental awareness EcoSchool status program promotes green values

By SYLVIE BERRY awarded by following the guide- and organics. and JOSH LADOUCEUR lines provided by EcoSchools re- “Anything you can possibly Staff Writers sources and the school’s status will imagine being waste, there is most Paying it forward, one less plas- be determined in May depending likely a category for it,” says On- tic water bottle at a time. That’s the on the number of points earned. A drias. message Richmond Street Public school can be awarded with a gold, The formal waste audit was per- School (RSPD) students are con- silver or bronze status. formed in order to measure the im- veying to the world. At RSPD, students in the Green provements of the school’s effort to The Thorold school has under- Team are responsible for monitor- reduce their waste production. gone an extreme green makeover in ing the use of energy in the class- While the project’s intentions are the past four months with the help rooms daily, meaning shutting off to stimulate the students’ aware- of Niagara College Environmen- the lights and computer monitors ness of the environment and the tal Management and Assessment when necessary; they try to man- impact they have through their day students Daniel Lusina, 27, Erica age where the waste goes and in to day activities, Bond has another Dobie, 21, and Sam Ondrias, 26. what bins, and are also responsible perspective. The trio introduced faculty and for taking the green bins outside at Referring to the movie Pay It students to the EcoSchools status the end of the day and inside in the Forward, Bond has chosen to con- program in November 2009. Dobie mornings. vey to the students the power of was inspired one afternoon when As a whole, the school has al- passing on the message of conser- picking up her cousin. She spotted ready eliminated close to 90 per vation and sustainability. a sustainability poster in the school cent of the plastic water bottles “You teach a couple of children describing its importance and how coming into the building. how to do it, they get into it, they much it’s needed. “We’re trying to push Brita get engrossed into it and they teach “I saw it [the poster] and it kind fi lters and for the kids to bring in two more, and two more and two With enthusiasm, Sam Ondrias and Erica Dobie sort waste into specifi c of sparked something, an interest those aluminum or plastic reusable more kids. Before you know it, it categories of plastics, cardboards and organics. to get involved and see what they bottles. We’re also telling other becomes a big idea and that’s what were doing, if there was something schools that come in, we’re a bot- we’re trying to teach.” that I could contribute,” says Do- tle-less school now,” says Bond. bie. Keeping all the children focused She later pursued the Learning and organized is no easy task. Resource teacher Joe Bond, now Lusina, Dobie and Ondrias can’t the school’s Green Team co-ordi- help but express their gratitude nator, and the combo got the ball towards Bond and other faculty for rolling immediately. their dedication and loyalty to the The EcoSchools program is an project. environmental education program “Joe is just absolutely astro- that demonstrates environmental nomical with organizing all the learning for all students in the kids and being on top of them. If it classroom. To achieve EcoSchools wasn’t for teachers like Joe and the status, the students must demon- custodians, none of this would be strate knowledge and improve- possible,” says Lusina. ments in all major categories of the During the week of Feb. 22 to 26, program. the trio performed a formal waste The main focuses are on en- audit at the school, sorting through ergy conservation, sustainability all green bins, recycling bins and (the greening of school grounds), garbage bins. From left, Niagara College students Sam Ondrias, Daniel Lusina and Erica Dobie help RSPD students pay it minimizing waste, ecological Waste is measured and then forward with the Green Team co-ordinator Joe Bond and custodians Anna Cavaricci and Laurie Shaule. curriculum-based teaching and the sorted into specifi c categories such school-wide initiatives. Points are as aluminums, plastics, cardboards Photos by Josh Ladouceur Entrepreneur students win draw, speak with dragon

By DAVID JANZEN ask Dickinson some questions in to please your parents or anyone Staff Writer the studio in early February. else. A dragon was loose in Toronto. Ferragina says he was impressed She says to ask, “What makes Arlene Dickinson, CEO of Ven- how personable Dickinson is. you happy? You’re in charge of ture Communications, took some “In person she is so humble, you. Don’t give up those life deci- time out of her busy schedule to she’s the nicest person. You can tell sions to anyone else.” join Steve Stunt, a business profes- she really cares about business.” With her teacher sitting beside sor at Niagara College, and two During the radio program, he her, she asked Dickinson what an students on Stunt’s radio program, asked Dickinson why, in some cas- entrepreneur professor should be the Entrepreneur Hour. Stunt’s pro- es, do second- or third-generation teaching students. gram is broadcast from the CP24 family businesses sometimes fail? “I feel like I’ve just been set up,” Radio 1050 studio in Toronto. Her response put the responsibility says Stunt with a laugh. Venture’s main offi ce is in Cal- in the hands of the parents. Dickinson agreed with Stunt, gary, but Dickinson has a residence Dickinson says if a child grows who says it’s hard to teach entre- in Toronto, saying it’s “like her up with a sense of entitlement, as preneurial material from a book. second home.” opposed to valuing hard work, the “He should teach you about the She has appeared on CBC’s hit company could potentially suffer. pitfalls in business and encourage television program, Dragon’s Den Ferragina also asked about rais- whatever entrepreneurial spirit you for its past four seasons. ing capital for a business, to which have.” On the show, Canadians get the Dickinson replied, “You have to CBC aired the season fi ve fi nale chance to make a sales pitch to a weave it into conversations. It’s in on March 15, but fans need not panel of successful business peo- the fabric of how you think.” worry. Dickinson will return for ple – the dragons – in an attempt When it was Jakop’s turn to season six. to raise capital for their business speak with Dickinson, she asked Applications for contestants are Stephanie Jakop, 21, and Mike Ferragina, 25, are the lucky winners of ventures. the Dragon for advice to new now open for season six and can their entrepreneur class draw. They went to Toronto in February to speak Stephanie Jakop, 21, of St. graduates of a business program. be made online at www.cbc.ca/ with Arlene Dickinson, a panelist on CBC’s hit show Dragon’s Den. Catharines and Mike Ferragina, 25, Dickinson stressed the impor- dragonsden, where there’s also a of Bradford, won a draw in their tance of making choices after col- list of dates and locations to apply entrepreneur class for a chance to lege or university for yourself, not in person. Photo by David Janzen Page 22 NIAGARA NEWS March 19, 2010 OFF CAMPUS Everything old is new again Stitch’n’Bitch brings knitting back into the spotlight By MICHELLE NUSSEY could work with.” Staff Writer This store differs from other Knitting used to be seen as a yarn and fabric stores because it therapeutic pastime for the elderly, carries a lot of bright colours and but it’s becoming a common hobby unique patterns. These patterns and for people of all ages. colours attract more people and Stitch’n Bitch is a popular social banish notions of tacky sweaters. knitting group and can benefi t If you want to learn to knit, sew beginners and seasoned knitters or quilt, Bee Modern Fabrics offers alike. classes ranging from beginner to Bee Modern Fabrics, 188 Vic- expert. To learn more about the toria St. in Niagara-on-the-Lake, classes, costs or community crafts, is the only place to host a Stitch’n call the store at 905-468-8190. Bitch in the Niagara area. Bee Modern Fabrics is celebrat- This privately owned store opens ing its fi rst anniversary this April. its door to anyone who would like Watch the store website, http:// to participate. www.beefabrics.ca, for more in- The socials are held monthly on formation. the fi rst Saturday, 2 p.m. till 4 p.m., and third Thursday, 6 p.m. till 8 p.m. Owners Monique Kruppa and her sister Heidi Kruppa-Saari say it started as a Christmas party. Ev- eryone was gathered working on projects and decided to make it a regular thing. A plate of cookies, good conver- sation and textiles. Monique Kruppa, on left, and Heidi Kruppa-Saari in the retail section of their store. These ladies don’t just knit, but Photos by Michelle Nussey they work on a range of things enjoys working on her own proj- Julia Ponesse, another regular not going to put this just inside the from needlework to rug hooking. ects during the socials. Stitch’n Bitch attendee, is working door, where everyone takes their Suzan Bowslaugh teaches begin- Bowslaugh says, “Most people on rug hooking, a craft in which boots off.” ner sewing and quilting at the store start out really easy with squares, you pull yarn or fabric through Being close to the border, Niagara- and is the vice-president of the not a thousand different pieces to a woven base, such as burlap, in on-the-Lake locals fi nd themselves Niagara Heritage Quilting Guild. sew on individually [referring to order to make a rug. going out of town to run errands and In addition to teaching others, she her own quilt].” Ponesse says, “I am defi nitely for entertainment. The Kruppa sis- ters believe it is important to reunite locals with the side of town that is not a tourist trap. Kruppa says, “Downtown seems too touristy, so we’re doing our part to revitalize the local aspect.” “There is free parking just two blocks up the road or down the other way,” she adds. Kruppa and Kruppa-Saari own the store next door called the Ciutadella Gallery. The gallery sells blown glass, jewelry and other exotic knick- knacks to satisfy any collectors. The space Bee Modern Fabrics is now in was empty for years. Kruppa says, “It’s just a re- ally awkward space, a really small downstairs with a bigger upstairs, not ideal for a business.” They saw the potential in the building and made it work for them. Melanie carefully threads a needle Kruppa says, “We just took through cloth to create this scenic something we’re passionate about picture. At left, Julia Ponesse does rug hooking while storeowner Monique Kruppa repairs a quilt. and turned it into something we Brock students are playing ball hockey for charity By SYLVIE BERRY for the tournament. gather leaders, foster has been working closely with the and will take place at the Niagara Staff Writer Each team of four or leadership skills BLCS through the planning of this Ball Hockey Club in St. Catharines, The Brock University commu- fi ve players is required and engage in event. 450 Eastchester Ave. E. nity is lending a charitable hand to to pay $200. Teams volunteer proj- “The funds they raise are vital in Winners are competing for the the Alzheimer Society of Niagara will be guaranteed ects within helping us to provide the services BLCS Cup Champions title and on March 20. at least three games the Brock and programs to the Niagara region their names will appear on the The Brock Leaders Citizenship throughout the day. and Niagara free of charge, and they are raising BLCS Cup trophy. Prizes, donated Society (BLCS) has organized a “Our goal is to community. awareness for us at the same time,” by the Niagara Ball Hockey Club, ball hockey tournament hoping to help charities that Develop- says Dell Rose-Ash. will be awarded as will be champi- collect over $1,600 for the founda- may not receive as ment Of- She adds there are over 7,700 onship T-shirts. tion. much support as oth- fi cer for the people in the Niagara region ex- “We are hoping that the BLCS Laura Broley, 19, a fi rst-year ers, but are just as de- Alzheimer periencing progressive dementia, Cup will be an annual event that General Studies student at Brock is serving,” says Broley. Society of Ni- the most common of which is Al- will allow the BLCS to raise a BLCS member and is overseeing BLCS is a group of agara Foundation zheimer’s disease. money for charities across our the organization and registration Brock students who aim to Gina Dell Rose-Ash The tournament begins at 1 p.m. community,” says Broley. March 19, 2010 NIAGARA NEWS Page 23 ENTERTAINMENT Fighting through the musical trenches illScarlett members soldier on between the garage and fame

By STEPHANIE COUTURE Staff Writer illScarlett, inspired by a street name, rides the road of its reggae rock infusion with no signs of stop- ping or slowing down. Although it lies between Holly- wood fame and garage band stage fame, this Mississauga-based band shines and can only rise from here. “We haven’t stopped. There is still room for improvement and no limits have been set,” says illScar- lett’s front man, Alex Norman. “The thing about overnight suc- cess is that it takes a long time,” says Norman, about two hours before the show at CAW Hall in St. Catharines on the fi nal leg of the band’s Canadian tour with Ubiqui- tous Synergy Seeker (USS). illScarlett’s sound blends aspects of pop, punk, reggae and rock genres and creates a unique conta- gious sound. “[They are] an amazing mix of rock and ska, both of which are at their fi nest, respectively,” says Josh Given, a St. Catharines musician. Norman, vocalist, and drummer Swav Pior met in high school and shared musical aspirations. They were determined to make it hap- pen for themselves; they brought in like-minded members John Doherty on bass and guitarist Will Marr to embark on their musical illScarlett played an unforgettable show at St. Catharines CAW Hall, where the energy was high, fans screamed and music was loved. journey. Photos by Stephanie Couture Instead of waiting to be noticed, the band made themselves notice- something like that.” job where you know where you are not kill him will make him stron- keep their synergy going. able. illScarlett has toured the world going, where you need to be,” says ger. From all the ups and downs, he “If I am not having a good time With their determination and DIY and shared the stage with Blink 182, Norman. says, he has learned from it all and on stage, people see that and they ethics, in 2004 the guys went to the The Flatliners, Protest the Hero, “There is no security. This could would not change any of it. won’t have a good time on the Warped Tour parking lot, fi red up Cypress Hill and many more. all end tomorrow. Not only that, As the follow-up to their gold- fl oors; so by entertaining ourselves a generator and played for those “I would defi nitely say [I enjoyed but it is hard to hold down a solid selling 2007 record, All Day fi rst, it is like dominos and it all waiting in the concert line. They being on a Canadian tour with] relationship because it is too diffi - With It, the band co-produced a falls into place.” grabbed the attention of Warped Ubiquitous Synergy Seeker. They cult and you miss your family with recently released album 1UP!. The Norman says music has defi ned Tour founder Kevin Lymon. It is are super exciting to play with,” all the travel, although travelling is album was recorded with Grammy him. Through it, he hopes to inspire said they were invited to play at says Norman. so cool. You get to see new places, Award-winning producer Robert people to be themselves, to believe his nightly post-show party, where “Weezer was great because I am but sometimes you just want to see Carranza. The members brought in their own person because every they were a hit and have since been a huge fan. Moneen was probably your own house.” their reggae-infl uenced roots with shot not taken is a shot missed, as guests on the Warped Tour dates. my favourite band from the south- Although he jokes about not be- them when they recorded at Los expressed in their song Take It For “Playing outside of Warped is ern Ontario. They are the most ing able to bring his PlayStation on Angeles’ Bushfi re Records, musi- Granted. something that is actually really incredible live musicians.” tour and being a racecar driver as a cian Jack Johnson’s solar-powered “I remember when we were start- gnarly,” says Given. “It’s an amaz- With all the highs of fame also backup, he says he does sometimes studio. ing out, people said, ‘Oh what are ing way to catch unsuspecting come the lows, battles and ob- fear and wonder what he’ll do “Co-producing felt great; it was you doing? There is no money in people and a great way to draw a stacles. when illScarlett ends. a lot of fun. We are so used to just music,’ and for a while I believed lot of attention to yourself. It’s very “[Being a musician] you don’t Life as a Soldier, from the fi rst recording and not really taking an them. They said, ‘Oh the competi- random and very well noticed to do have that regular lifestyle, a regular album, took over a year to write. active involvement in the process tion is so fi erce,’ and it was like It contends that their job, at times, of production,” says Norman. saying I am not good enough to do feels a soldier’s because of the long “I think it kept it more fun and it,” says Norman. hours away from home on the road interesting. We really poured as “People who are not even in the and all the challenges. much as we could into it. We knew music industry are trying to tell The band members face girls, that this was our baby more than me about the music industry. So alcohol, drugs and fame while any other record.” [forget] them, do what you want to they’re touring. This past year they have brought do in life and you can accomplish “That song is about how the in unoffi cial member and key- anything. job that we do is obviously not as boardist Anthony Corone, who You’ve got to work hard, sacri- diffi cult as that of a soldier, but went with them to record their new fi ce, don’t take any half steps, balls sometimes it feels like it when you album and has been a part of the to the wall.” have to go on these huge drives and across-Canada tour. illScarlett is aware of the risks you’re lugging all your gear and Norman says that he has yet to and the challenges within the in- your girlfriend is at home and all be made an offi cial member of dustry. Norman says that if bands the pitfalls that we’re subjected to illScarlett, but that it is looking want to be at a higher level, to suc- every day and how to stay out of promising for Corone to be the fi fth ceed, they have to ask themselves them,” says Norman. member of the band. why they are not rising with their “Sometimes I just feel like a illScarlett is a band that not only music and fi nd ways to improve. soldier, but that is what I do. Don’t won’t take no for an answer but The efforts have to come before feel bad. That is what I do, that’s puts in all it has when it comes to work, before school and anything my job. I agreed to the terms the craft. else. illScarlett frontman, Alex Norman, plays the guitar and sings out to all and conditions and I’ll stay the The members still have so much “Bands don’t fail, they quit. So the fans at CAW Hall in St. Catharines. course.” on their to-do list, such as winning ultimately it is up to them if they Photos by Stephanie Couture Norman asserts that what will an award, but until then they will want to do it or not.” Page 24 NIAGARA NEWS March 19, 2010 ENTERTAINMENT Local promoter off ers personable dynamic Business is all about building a positive environment By BEN BURNS for a band that had easily outgrown band, an up-and-coming one in the Staff Writer venues of that size.” local music scene. Matt Bresee is a promoter for lo- “I was a closed-minded punk “The Merchant has only been cal music in the Niagara region. kid in a studded leather jacket and kickin’ around for about a year and “I had been going to local shows skinny jeans tucked into my Doc we are fi nally trying to get things and trying to support the music Martin’s when I hosted my fi rst off the ground and have been build- scene since I was 13 or 14 years ing ourselves up locally for the last old. Right before my 16th birthday, little while. It has only been as of I decided I wanted to host my own late that we got to play some cool event with a number of punk and out-of-town shows and have just ska acts who I wanted to see and recently announced a few more,” that I knew all of my friends would says Bresee. be into,” says Bresee. ‘I am really stoked It’s great to be part of a scene Until he decided he wanted to on the idea of try- where the local bands all support continue to promote shows, Bresee one another, he adds. He goes out says he never really had taken an ing out new things to his friends’ band’s shows and interest in the behind-the-scenes they do the same for him. It creates business of the music industry. within the enter- a positive environment within the “Once I started trying to build scene for both the show-goers and relationships with up-and-coming tainment industry.’ the musicians. artists as well as the booking – Matt Bresee “I have really enjoyed branch- agents of artists who had estab- ing outside of music. I still have Matt Bresee, a music promoter, books and promotes events while lished themselves at least on a a handful of shows in the works juggling duties with his own band The Merchant. national level, I got to know the for the coming months. However, Submitted poster systems and etiquette and politics running the Anti-Valentine’s Day behind it all.” Party on Feb. 14 was a blast and suggests to put yourself out there, lor & The Mike Cameron Band There aren’t necessarily big show. Since then I discovered that was a nice eye-opener to another be personable and be fair. at City Lights (67 St. Paul St.), bands and small bands, says Bresee. there was a market for everything, side of event management. Also, I “I work with just about anything tickets at Sunrise Records (Pen Everyone does better in one place and even though, yes, sometimes have recently announced a stand-up that is within my means and even Centre); March 29, In Flight than another. different genres of music bring out comedy evening with three come- then I always try my best to push Safety with Said The Whale & “In terms of how established a a different attitude in whoever hap- dians and two bands for March 20 that. Doesn’t matter to me if you Waterbodies at Mansion House band is, I always worked out of pens to be attending the show, it is at City Lights. I am really stoked are a solo fi ddle player or the (5 William St.), tickets at Sunrise smaller venues. This was somewhat safe to say that everyone is at the on the idea of trying out new things heaviest band this side of Europe,” Records (Pen Centre); and April limiting but it let me build positive show for the same reason. People within the entertainment industry,” says Bresee. 15, The Creepshow with Taurine relationships with those artists on are into the music and that’s all that says Bresee. A few upcoming events he is at the Mansion House, tickets at the rise, as well as every once in counts.” As far as advice for people who working on are March 20, Standup Sunrise Records (Pen Centre) and a while getting to pack the place The Merchant is Bresee’s own want to get into the business, he Comedy Night with Barry Tay- www.ticketscene.ca.

mydifference

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From left, St. Catharines-based band Journey to Aspen members Rob Paulin, Scotty Blake, Eric Conlon, Jeremy Bundy, Josh Given and Alex Vados Submitted photo Local band journeys across Canada

By STEPHANIE COUTURE “I found structure in something phrase that dreams never die,” says life on hold to pursue their dreams, in a rock band is still something I Staff Writer I am passionate about,” says Josh Zach Blay, J2A manager. “They such as dropping out of school and can get away with.” Music loves company, and there Given, guitarist. have provided St. Catharines with moving across the country. J2A describes themselves under is nothing but company on their “I have learned and realized that hope that the music scene will fl our- “The fi re wasn’t there,” says the self-proclaimed genres of fun, journey. if you work hard, whatever your ish once again and they have proven Blake, who picked drum sticks contagious and inspiring. They feel St. Catharines-based band Jour- passion may be, follow it and do not time and time again that they are over books. “I didn’t have the pas- as if every show is about exchang- ney to Aspen (J2A) embarked on allow people to push you away from here to stay and that they are ready sion for it as I do with music.” ing energy with a group of people its musical endeavours a mere three it,” adds Jeremy Bundy, guitarist. for the next step.” For Vados, who calls Montreal who want to enjoy music and have years ago. Although they have been Eric Conlon, vocalist¸ and his The immense level of synergy home, music has always been a an unforgettable experience. faced with a fair share of challenges, sonic confi dantes Bundy, Given, among the six band members re- positive thing for him. He says it “It is important to us, as a band, such as line-up changes and making Scotty Blake, drummer, Rob Paulin, mains at an all-time high when has an “awesome” ability to make to have fans experience something sacrifi ces for their craft, nothing bassist, Alex Vados, synthesizer, they put their instruments down you feel indescribable things. with us,” says Conlon. “Too many has stopped them from making and have all come to music with differ- and step off stage. Playing in a “It took a lot of thought for me bands play at people and don’t playing the music they love with the ent backgrounds. Be it pop rock or band secures their bond as does the to move to St. Catharines, and now make efforts to connect.” people they love. metal or all that is in between, they fact music has proven to be more I am playing music with some of The band is set to go coast-to- They have set their sights on what have a foot in all elements of music than just a hobby, it’s an unfailing the most devoted people I’ve ever coast on a six-week Canadian tour. they want and will do what it takes and use this to their advantage. passion and desire. met,” says Vados. “I’m still young, For information visit them at www. to go after it. “J2A has been living on the They have, in their own ways, put so moving across the country to be myspace.com/journeytoaspen. Campus Idol lacks fans and contestants Pub event draws two singers from the pool of eight fi nalists

By MADISON has held the Campus Idol event for the central region fi nals. The and boyfriend to the fi nals. derfully with his energetic stage SAMUEL-BARCLAY for over eight years. fi rst-place winner receives $400 “I’ve never sung in front of presence, while Davis’ choices of Staff Writer Apparently participation in past in cash, while the runner-up wins people before, I’ve only had les- Etta James’ At Last, Jefferson Air- Student Music Week at Niagara Campus Idols’ had been much $200 in cash. sons,” says a nervous Davis, who plane’s White Rabbit, and Dash- College, from March 8 to March more “enthusiastic.” And with only two contenders had been taking singing lessons board Confessional’s Vindicated 12, meant some of the college’s Campus Idol is an annual event Wednesday evening, neither was for close to nine years. played up with her strong singing fi nest up-and-coming singers hosted by the Canadian Orga- complaining about their missing Richards and Davis had to per- voice. would perform at the Campus Idol nization of Campus Activities competition. form a set of three songs before However, in the end, the judges fi nals. (COCA). Finalists from participat- First-year Computer Technol- three selected judges: Paul Savoy, could only choose one contestant, If they had shown up, that is. ing Ontario colleges will compete ogy student Dave Richards hadn’t a fellow singer and bartender at and Davis was selected to move on Of the eight chosen fi nalists for at the central region fi nals at the realized he was trying out for Niagara College’s Niagara-on- to the central region fi nals in Lon- the event, held at the After Hours Out Back Shack at Fanshawe Col- Campus Idol when he fi rst decided the-Lake campus, former SAC don on behalf of Niagara College, Welland campus pub the night lege, London, Ont., on March 27. to try picking up the microphone member Kathleen Fortney, and as well as picking up the $400. of March 10, only two arrived to The fi rst-place winner receives the at After Hours two weeks before. 2009’s Niagara College Campus Richards was quite happy with participate. Most of the audience grand prize of $1,000 cash, while “I thought it was karaoke,” Idol winner Matt Dell. his $200 runner-up prize. seemed to have gone amiss as the runner-up wins a trip for two Richards admits. “Until I saw the Richards and Davis brought an “I’m very excited, very ner- well. to Montreal for New Year’s Eve. sign-up sheet.” interesting singing style and song vous,” an ecstatic Davis says “The ‘Idol’ thing may have run The Niagara College fi nal also First-year Acting for Film and selection to the stage. Richards over her win. “I don’t know what its course,” Student Administra- offers prizes before shuttling TV student Katie Davis had been set, which included Deep Purple’s I’m going to sing [at the finals] tive Council (SAC) Logistics off its winner with a paid trip, much more aware of the try-outs, Hush, Rush’s Limelight and Katy but I’ll figure it out and … I’m Manager Glenn Murray says. He registration and hotel in London, however, and brought her father Perry’s Hot n’Cold, worked won- excited!” Page 26 NIAGARA NEWS March 19, 2010 SPECIAL

Polish Second World War deportation survivors stand in front of the Polish war medal at the Polish legion in St. Catharines March 5. From left: Sabina Glowacki, George Parkitny, Emilia Gagola, Ignacy Pelc and Irena Pelc. Photo by Jonathan Krenz Remembering war’s horrors Polish Canadians recount their unique struggles in the Second World War By JONATHAN KRENZ World War experience. I had the the attendees on March 5 and hear Staff Writer opportunity to edit an English-lan- about their life during the Second Knowing is half the battle. guage version and, through work- World War. It isn’t possible to ex- This aphorism was made ing on it, developed an immense plain the entire Polish war experi- Demarcation line: Poland famous in the 1980s by the respect for what he and millions ence in one newspaper article but I G.I. Joe cartoon and has of other Poles went through in the hope the following will give you an September 1939 likely stayed in the memories 1940s. idea of what some of the civilians of many of us who grew up On Feb. 10, 1940, thousands of went through. in that decade. As a young boy, families in eastern Poland were Glowacki’s wife Sabina, 73, has I was fascinated by the military rudely awakened in the early hours carried on his project and was the jingoism of that era – Rambo, and found themselves at the start organizer of this year’s event. G.I. Joe, all the ‘Nam movies and of a terrible journey that would “They came at night; they said, even television shows. (Tour of leave many dead and sick and most ‘You have 15 minutes. We’re tak- Duty’s opening credits are still without a home after the Second ing you to a better place,’” said some of the best around) This World War. They were forced from Glowacki, describing the rude stuff was and still is exciting their homes by People’s Commis- awakening thousands of Poles and adrenaline-fi lled enter- sariat for Internal Affairs offi cers experienced 70 years ago. The Pol- tainment. (NKVD – a Soviet police force ish people already had everything However, what I didn’t and precursor to the KGB) with they needed, she said, but the So- realize at the time, because little more than the clothes on their viets insisted life would be better of my age, was that real war backs, crammed into cattle-trains elsewhere and the Poles would is nothing like the movies. on a one-way trip to Siberian la- completely provided for. Although most war stories bour camps. Czeslawa Golubienko, 78, lost contain anti-war sentiment A group of Polish-Canadians her grandparents, two uncles and because of their subject gathered at the St. Catharines Pol- her youngest brother to starvation manner (there’s really no way ish Legion this past Feb. 10 to mark in Siberia. to sugar-coat the fact that war is the 70th anniversary of the depor- “I still remember – I still can see hell), I don’t think it’s possible to tations. The event was inspired him. He couldn’t eat because he understand the absolute horror of by Tadeusz (Ted) Glowacki, who was so sick from starvation,” she armed confl ict without reading was 12 when he was deported to a said, describing her brother’s last about it and hearing about it Soviet labour camp in Siberia. He days. “But he begged my mom, from people who have experi- had planned for a local gathering of ‘Take me back to Poland. I want Map showing the early Second World War partition of enced it. fellow deportees but unfortunately to see lots and lots of bread.’ And Poland, a product of the secret Molotov-Ribbentrop My maternal grandfather, Antoni died in 2003 before he could real- he passed away. That was a sad Pact between Germany and the Soviet Union. Gagola, was Polish and had the ize his memorial idea. time.” Submitted image foresight to write down his Second I was able to chat with a few of Continued on page 27 March 19, 2010 NIAGARA NEWS Page 27 SPECIAL ‘... I think it was a bad dream’ Continued from page 26 and hundreds of thousands of When asked how one deals Siberian deportees were granted with such situations, Golubienko amnesty. The former labour camp replied, “You have to deal with detainees were “free” but they still everything. What can you do? It’s had to make their way out of the hard to believe it now. Sometimes I Soviet Union. Many eventually left think it was a bad dream.” it, crossing the Caspian Sea into Golubienko said her children, Iran, then known as Persia, which when told about their mother’s ex- was partly under Soviet and British perience during the Second World infl uence. War, didn’t believe it at fi rst. How- The eastern side of Iran, to Teh- ever, from reading books on the ran, was controlled by the Soviets, subject, they began to understand said Ted Telega, 83. what she went through. “They had lots of NKVD and Like many Polish women and they counted how many Poles children, Golubienko ended up in a were in the transports,” he said. displaced persons camp in Africa. “We’d been told to be quiet; not to She arrived in Tengeru, Tanzania say anything about the conditions (then called the Tanganyika Terri- in the Soviet Union. If you talked tory and under British authority) in too much, they’d stop you.” Telega 1943 at the same camp my grand- said Iran was “beautiful” compared mother Emilia came to in 1942. to the Soviet Union. These camps were also set up in Telega joined the Polish Sea countries like Lebanon, India and Cadets in March 1943 and eventu- even as far away as New Zealand ally made it into the Polish II Corps and Mexico, to accommodate the after an army recruiter overlooked large number of Polish refugees his age. The II Corps was a mas- created by the deportations and sive Polish army comprised mostly subsequent amnesty. of survivors from Siberia. Its most Ignacy Pelc, 84, was deported to famous campaign, and a source a Siberian labour camp in the Ural of national pride, was the Battle Mountains and spent time cutting of Monte Cassino in Italy during This map shows the vast distances covered during the eastern Poles’ deportation to Siberia by Soviet forces wood in the bush and burning the spring of 1944. Telega said his and the subsequent diaspora caused by the amnesty. Although the Soviet Union freed their former labour branches. commanding camp deportees in 1941, the Poles still had to fi nd a way out of Siberia and many died on the journey. “Until the am- offi cer kept him Submitted image nesty freed us, ‘You had to eat out of the fi ght, [then] we went saying Telega I came to England in 1946. I was camp diet), a common malady for that we made it.” down south, whatever you was too young. discharged and went working,” the deportees. Camp labourers And I am thankful for being able little by little,” Pelc’s brother said Telega. He came to Canada subsisted on a meagre diet of dark to hear about these experiences he recalled. could fi nd...even was wounded March 4, 1949, and spent a few bread and extremely watery soup. fi rst-hand from the people who “It was rough at Cassino and years in Alberta working on a farm. Parkitny said his father eventually lived through them. Until a few but we made it up until now, I’ve was eventually Telega made his way to Niagara in went to work on a kolhoz (collec- years ago, I didn’t realize just what somehow. There killed in Bolo- the early 1950s after hearing about tive farm), preparing food for the my grandparents, and others like were Polish never thrown out a gna, Italy. industrial job opportunities. He camp. them, went through in their youth. people gathering At the end married in 1953. Food was so scarce that the Pol- Now I know. from all over crumb of bread.’ of the Second Like Pelc, George Parkitny was ish deportees had to trade and steal For further reading on this com- the place. A lot World War, Po- deported to a labour camp in the to survive. plex time in human history, a good of people were — Czeslawa land was under Ural Mountains. He worked in a “You had to eat whatever you place to start is www.dpcamps.org/ dying: children, Golubienko Soviet control copper mine near Karabasz and could manage to fi nd,” said Golu- poland.html. sick people, old and many dis- lived in barracks along with other bienko. “We had to eat berries in The Royal Canadian Legion Pol- people.” Pelc’s placed Poles Polish families. the forest and drink birch sap. ish Veterans Branch 418 is hosting father died in did not return Only 13, he was forced to push “Even up until now, I’ve never an event May 18 to commemorate Tehran, Iran, during this exodus. because of this. Poland lost a vast a wheelbarrow in the mines, he thrown out a crumb of bread.” the Battle of Monte Cassino. There After Germany attacked the amount of eastern territory and said, something the Soviets called “It’s never going to be forgot- will be photos, diaries, uniforms, Soviet Union in 1941, the Polish hundreds of thousands of families “learning.” He became sick after ten,” said Pelc of the Polish experi- medals and other items on display government-in-exile (based in and survivors had no homes to several months of that and also ence during the Second World War. from that important battle. London) established diplomatic return to. suffered night blindness (because “I still can hardly believe what we The legion is at 294 Vine St. in relations with the Soviet Union “[After] the war was fi nished, of a lack of Vitamin A in the labour went through. I just thank the Lord St. Catharines.

Map showing the Polish border after the Second World War. Poland lost There are 17 former Polish deportees to Siberia from the Second World War living in St. Catharines. Here they much of its eastern territory to mollify the Soviet Union and many Poles pose for a photograph at the Polish legion in St. Catharines during their 70th reunion on Feb. 10, a memorial had no homes to return to. of when they were pulled from their homes by Soviet forces Feb. 10, 1940. Submitted image Submitted photo Page 28 NIAGARA NEWS March 19, 2010 SPECIAL

Students visit the pub to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in costume. From left, Victoria Palumbo, John Cutler, a student who wished to remain unnamed and Becky Richard. Photo by Stephanie Couture Irish pride comes through on St. Patrick’s Day By MICHELLE NUSSEY Guinness and Molson,” says, good food, music and a lot of It was May 19, 1769, 10 years Staff Writer manager Tammy Boon. Guinness.” after he leased St. James, that While St. Patrick’s Day is not At The Irish Harp Pub, 245 Guinness is a must on St. he exported his fi rst six barrels a statutory holiday in Canada it King St. in Niagara-on-the- Patrick’s Day. of beer to England. has been a religious holiday Lake, the musician group The headquarters of Guin- By the end of the 20th in Ireland for more than 1,000 Ceol Cara played their mix of ness is in Dublin, Ireland, century, Guinness has been years. Irish immigrants contin- traditional Celtic and shanties home to the St. James Gate brewed in over 40 countries, ued to celebrate when they left songs and later there were Irish Brewery. The St. James brew- and sold in over 150. In 1997 Ireland and now, St. Patrick’s dancers. ery is the largest in Ireland and Guinness merged with Grand Day is a major event in most Mark McGill, who is work- the largest stout brewer in the Metropolitan in a $36.8 billion countries around the world. ing his fi rst St. Patrick’s Day, world, but fi rst and foremost, merger. A new company was In Niagara bars and pubs says, “Attendance won’t be the Guinness brewery. formed called ‘Diageo,’ but green decorations, shamrocks, hampered at all [since it falls On Dec. 31, 1759, Aurther the Guinness family still owns accessories and beer are only on a Wednesday], most people Guinness leased the St. James 51 per cent of the company. some of the things that showed will take the day off to come Gate brewery for £45, about Today, 10 million glasses of up on St. Patrick’s Day. anyway. We will be busy from $69, per year for 9,000 years. Guinness are enjoyed around Welland’s own Ye Olde noon till midnight.” At that time the brewery was the world daily. Squire kicks off St. Patrick’s The pub is a true Irish pub, four acres in size and aban- Outside the St. James brew- Day with an Irish menu of owned and restored by Trevor doned. ery there is a sign that says, corned beef sandwiches and Smyth bringing the spirit and Despite the competition of “everyone is Irish on March cabbage soup. Throughout traditions of the Emerald Isle imported English beer and lack 17th” and pubs and bars in the day there is live music to Niagara-on-the-Lake. of brewing equipment, Guin- the Niagara region certainly and “lots of giveaways from McGill says, “There will be ness was able to make it work. prove that.

St. Patrick’s Day – Did You Know? • The three-leaf clover is associated • According to a 2006 census 4.3 • The Montreal municipal fl ag Illustrated by with St. Patrick’s Day because of million Canadians claimed Irish features an Irish shamrock Madison Samuel-Barclay its relation to the Holy Trinity. ancestory. • This year there were 12 hours of • The New York St. Patrick’s Day • In the same census, 80% of daylight on St. Patrick’s Day. parade is the biggest in the Newfoundlanders are of Irish world. descent. March 19, 2010 NIAGARA NEWS Page 29 COOPER’S CORNER Cooper’s Corner’s all-star selections

BERNARD COOPER

Columnist

Welcome to the fi nal Cooper’s Corner where I give my opinion about hot topics in sports. In this edition I want to an- nounce my end-of-season awards. I will be giving out seven awards: two volleyball awards to the best male and female ath- lete, two basketball awards to the best male and female athlete, an award for best male athlete of 2009-10 and a best female athlete award for 2009-10. The last award is Best Knights coach. These are my choices. My picks for these categories are not neces- Best Male Athlete: Chris Hargest (Golf) sarily what will happen on April 10 Best Female Athlete: Kaitlyn McKenna at the Awards Banquet. (Basketball) Nobody who wore a Knight uniform represented us better than he did. If you ever want to contact me, To be honest, the impact of McKenna was huge. If the Knights basket- The golf season isn’t long but in October 2009, Canada saw how deadly you can reach me at bernard_lak- ball team didn’t have her, the team wouldn’t have made the playoffs. Hargest is with a golf club. [email protected]. The Knights women’s basketball team was the only female Knights He captured the gold medal in singles competition in the Canadian Col- team to make it to the playoffs. leges Athletic Association (CCAA) golf tournament. McKenna put everything on the line in the playoff loss against the This was the fi rst gold medal the college has received in golf. The best Sheridan College Bruins with 22 points, six rebounds and two assists. part about it is Hargest started the second round of the tournament three She may not be the Knights leader off the court, but she certainly is the shots off the lead and in sixth place. leader on it. She shows by example, and when the team is losing, she tries He also helped lead his Knights golf team to a bronze medal fi nish in everything to get them back into the game. that tournament and was named the OCAA player of the week for Oct. 19 to Oct. 24.

Photos by Bernard Cooper

Best Male Volleyball Best Female Volleyball Coach of the Year: Best Male Basketball Best Female Basket- Player: Player: Ron Lemon (Women’s Player: ball Player: Kevin Krajcik Jenny Aide Basketball) Lamar Grant Kaitlyn McKenna Krajcik is the best volleyball This was a tough one for me. The pre-season started with high Jeremy Settimi would have won This was a no-brainer; McKenna player the Knights had this season, There are so many great players expectations for this team with the this award had he not gone down led the Knights all season long. and I give him this award because on this team and at least three play- addition with Fei Ling Chen, but as with a season-ending injury. Chris When the team needed a bucket, he came out to play game after ers are worthy of this honour– play- the season started it was a different Bauslaugh would also have won they went to her. She is one of two game. ers like Kerissa Van Amersfoort and ball game. this award if he had played the players on the team who can create He had 233 kills, 21 blocks, 68 Cassandra Musungayi–but what it Some games they won and some whole season. their own shot. digs and 291 points in the season. all boils down to this award is go- they got beaten badly. No matter the Lamar Grant, the team’s shooting She led the team in points with He led the team in kills as nobody ing to the veteran, Jenny Aide. outcome, Lemon never gave up on and point guard, wins this award. 13.92 a game, and she led the team came close to his 233 kills. Every time you watch her play, his team. After missing the playoffs At the beginning of the season in rebounds with 125. No one Nobody touched him in points, she is giving it her all; she leaves last season, under Lemon’s guid- Grant switched to the point guard comes close to her in rebounds. as the closest was Corey Easy everything on the court. ance, they made it there this year, spot, a position he was not familiar She led the team in steals with 41 with 149 points. Krajcik was also Guaranteed she is not the best on only to be stopped by the Sheridan with, but switched back to shooting on the season. She was an oppo- the energy for the team, when the the team, but she is the team leader Bruins, the defending champions. gaurd later in the season. nent’s nightmare. Knights needed a point he stepped on and off the court. With seven fi rst-year players it Grant played in every game for McKenna is now tied for 10th up and when they needed a block Aide fi nished the season with was tough to get this team on the the Knights this season and he was place on the Ontario Colleges he was there. 142 kills, 30 aces, seven blocks same page at the beginning of the also a great team leader, as you can Athletic Association (OCAA) ca- Krajcik was named to the OCAA and 214 digs. She was second on season, but saw the team coming see him during a time-out pointing reer scoring leaders list with 741 West All Star fi rst-team, in honour the team in points with 179. together as it made its push for the out instructions to his teammates. points. of his play this season. playoffs He had an all around season Next season she will have a with 10.9 points per game; he had chance to be Niagara’s all-time 30 three point shots made and 17 leading scorer as she needs just 37 steals. points. Page 30 NIAGARA NEWS March 19, 2010 SPORTS

The Niagara Knights women’s basketball team huddles up before their game against the St. Lawrence College Vikings on Feb. 27. . Photos by Bernard Cooper Season ends for the Lady Knights By BERNARD COOPER head coach Ron Lemon. Knights.They travelled to Kingston the pack. She caught the ball with Knights, they look forward to next Staff Writer “Unfortunately for us, it was in to play the St. Lawrence College four seconds left and went all the season. It is always tough to win against the fi rst game.” Vikings in the OCAA qualifying way to the rim for the game win- “Next year, we will try our hard- the champions in the playoffs, Kaitlyn McKenna, the Knights’ game, the winner to play the Bru- ning shot. est as a team to get back to the and when you have them in the starting forward, was the only ins. A happy James had this to say OCAAs, and when we get there, fi rst game of the playoffs it’s even player to score in double fi gures The Knights were down 36-24 at about how the game ended. “When we will try our hardest to win the tougher. for the locals, as she fi nished with the half and couldn’t get their of- Whitney blocked that girl’s shot, title,” says Tinley. This was the case for the Ni- 22 points, six rebounds and two fence in sync. fi rst thing that went through my The Knights will be saying agara Knights women’s basketball assists. Kristy Lee had eight points At halftime Lemon said, “We mind was, crap, please don’t call a goodbye to their starting point team, who fell in their fi rst game off the bench for the Knights. have to continue to play hard and foul. After they did not call a foul, guard and team captain Jessica of the Ontario Colleges Athletic Jessica James, the Knights’ start- play good defence.” my instinct was to look up at the James. She has spent fi ve seasons Association (OCAA) playoffs in ing point guard, had this to say The Knights listened to their clock to see the time remaining. with the team. Kingston, Ont. The score was 83- about the loss. coach, giving up only 22 points in When Whitney threw that ball, I “The Niagara Knights will re- 47, to the defending OCAA Cham- “As you know, the Bruins are the the second half. had no clue who she was throwing group for next year,” says James. pions Sheridan College Bruins of number 1 team in the nation. Beat- The Vikings called their fi nal it to until I looked ahead. Kristy all “Some girls say, ‘It’s weird because Oakville. ing them would mean us shooting timeout with the game tied at 58 by herself to a wide-open basket. now what do we do every day after The Bruins came out on March 4 well, them shooting poorly and us and 14.8 seconds left on the clock. We won.” school?’” with a balanced attack on offence minimizing the mistakes. Unfortu- The ball was inbounded and into McKenna had this to say after “Some will hit the gym hard and and the Knights found themselves nately, it wasn’t meant to be.” the hands of Vikings point guard the victory. some will go shoot around or play in an early 38-20 hole at the half. The Knights didn’t do either of Kari Stuart, who dribbled to the “I live to be in games like that. pick up just to keep playing,” she “It would have been nice to have those things, shooting 35 per cent free throw line and put up a shot. Yeah, I would like to beat a team adds. played more than one game at from the fi eld with 20 turnovers, The shot was blocked by by 20 points, but to win like we did For more information about the the OCAA Championships, but at which the Bruins capitalized on for Knights centre Whitney Jackson, on an opponent’s home fl oor made Lady Knights and any Knights some point in the tournament you 19 points. who caught the ball and passed it us feel special.” team during the off-season, you are going to face Sheridan,” says Feb. 27 was a big day for the to Lee, who was way out in front of With the season now over for the can log onto niagaraknights.ca.

Knights forward Jenna Varga forces her way through the Fanshawe Falcons defence, in the Knights fi nal home game. This was the last time the team will play in the Mackenzie building gym March 19, 2010 NIAGARA NEWS Page 31 SPORTS Knights are optimistic for next year With injuries and a disappointing season behind them, the men’s basketball team can’t wait to prove they’ve got what it takes

By BRANDON MACDONALD Shah, Matt Thomas and Rashad Staff Writer Morley had great fi rst years with The 2009-10 Niagara Knights the team. men’s basketball team entered the Shah fi nished in the top fi ve of season knowing the high expecta- team scoring, averaging just over tions they had. 10 points a game. After fi nishing the previous Last season’s rookie of the year, year with a bronze medal, every- Arny N’Kindu led the team with one on the team wanted to better just over 13 points a game. After that mark. missing the fi rst part of the season, After opening the season with N’Kindu quickly regained last sea- a 3-4 record, the Knights’ season son’s form and was an offensive took a big hit. Guard Jeremy Set- leader for the Knights. timi went down with a season end- Knights strength coach Tony ing knee injury during the Durham Ferrusi has preached working out College, of Oshawa, tournament in and staying healthy. Injuries were December. a bit of the season story for the Settimi was co-captain of the Knights. Yannick N’Kindu, Alex Knights and their leading scorer at Shah, Chris Bauslaugh and Jake the time of the injury. Stika were just a few players who “One of the lows of the season battled injuries during the season. is when we lost Jeremy [Settimi] “Next season I look to come with the knee injury,” says guard back 100 per cent from my injuries C.J. Smith. and in good condition to get after it “It was painful for the team be- for another year,” says Stika. cause he was a big part of the team, Head Coach Mike Beccaria and and players looked up to him.” his staff have some players in mind Settimi had to go under the knife they hope will join the team next for reconstructive knee surgery. season. He plans to work hard in the off- The addition of another big man season to be stronger than before. and possibly a combination guard “I plan on coming back in Sep- could be some of the spots the tember to fi nish up my program Knights will look to improve on. and play basketball,” says Settimi. “We are losing some guys, so we C.J. SMITH JEREMY SETTIMI JAKE STIKA “I have been in physiotherapy will have to bring in some young since I got my cast off, and my knee talent, and the team will have to Submitted photos is recovering the way it is supposed do a better job of staying healthy,” to. I plan on coming back in shape. says Settimi. I don’t know how much of my “Staying healthy [is key] so we B@/CA7<5@/<2@/>72A;7 “The biggest win of the season #1 had to be our last home game VOTED EDUCATION 1][^ZSbSg]c`POQVSZ]`¸aRSU`SS 2003 against Fanshawe,” says forward 2004 Jake Stika. 2005 eWbV2OdS\^]`bC\WdS`aWbg “Early in the year we lost many 2006 2OdS\^]`bC\WdS`aWbgVOaRSdSZ]^SRRSU`SSQ][^ZSbW]\^O`b\S`aVW^a games in close situations down the bVObOZZ]eg]cb]b`O\aTS`Q`SRWbab]eO`ROPOQVSZ]`¸a]`[OabS`¸aRSU`SS stretch. To win that one in overtime 2007 against a strong opponent showed 2008 2cSb]US\S`]cab`O\aTS`Q`SRWba[O\gU`ORcObSaeWbVObV`SS us our potential.” gSO`RW^Z][OQO\Q][^ZSbSOPOQVSZ]`¸aRSU`SSeWbVOaTSeOa The Ontario College Athletic 2009 2OdS\^]`bQZOaaSa Association (OCAA) qualifying AAPEX 0S\S¿ba]TO\]\ZW\SRSU`SS( game wasn’t the fairy tale ending DRIVING ACADEMY ’<=D7A/A3O`\g]c`RSU`SSQ][^ZSbSZg]\ZW\S the Knights had hoped for. Their ’ "%/D/7:/07:7BGBOYSQZOaaSaO\gbW[Se]`YO`]c\RaQVSRcZSR playoff chances slipped away as Q][[Wb[S\ba they lost 80-58. 8 LOCATIONS “The season was disappointing ’/44=@2/0:3AQV]ZO`aVW^a]`^O`b\S`aVW^bcWbW]\`ObSaO`SOdOWZOPZS because we had high expectations Register TO SERVE YOU from what we accomplished last • FONTHILL • WELLAND eeeROdS\^]`bSRcQO^O`b\S`a year,” says Settimi. On Line! • NIAGARA FALLS • ST. CATHARINES & !#! !^O`b\S`aVW^a.ROdS\^]`bSRc & view upcoming E/:3BB7<5/1/;>CA7<5@/<2@/>72A “We thought we would return to course dates • PORT COLBORNE • FORT ERIE 

the tournament and try for a differ- • BEAMSVILLE • GRIMSBY  ent colour medal this year.” Next season, the Knights want to aapexdriving.com come back healthy. Rookies Alex Page 32 NIAGARA NEWS March 19, 2010 SPORTS A Knight to be remembered After fi ve seasons with the team JJ is moving on

By BERNARD COOPER person because there have been a Staff Writer lot of great people surrounding me “Jessica is a leader and we while I was here. are proud of her as our point “Mike Hurley, my fi rst-year, guard.”Says Knight’s womens bas- would play one-on-one with me ketball coach of Jessica James. during school time to practice my James, also known as JJ, skills and would critique my shot. has been a big part of Niagara “Phil Mosley, my fi rst-year Knights sports over the past fi ve coach, gave me the chance to play, years. She has played basket- and more confi dence any player ball, indoor and outdoor soccer. could ask for. He’d say, ‘Jessie has She was last year’s female athlete the green light to shoot whenever of the year and was named to the she wants.’” Ontario Colleges Athletic Asso- “Last but not least Jamie Fong, ciation, (OCAA), all fi rst team in the point guard. My fi rst year, she 2009. made the game simple to me and James is now set on the future as was there to guide me and teach me she fi nishes her career as a Knight. the aspects of the game.” She took a look back at her years James was well respected by her at Niagara. teammates and was named captain “Well I was a Knight in el- of the women’s basketball team. ementary school, so it was neat to She was also seen encouraging become a Knight again and I was her teammates whenever adversi- grateful to be able to play at this ties would hiyt the court. level of competition. “What can you say about JJ that “My favourite moment was hasn’t been said? She had a very making it to OCAA’s [Ontario good day at Regionals and got a championships] my fi rst year. It proper walk-off ovation from her was an unbelievable atmosphere. teammates with a minute left in the “Yet, also my favourite moment last game,” says women’s soccer was hosting OCAA’s I believe coach Frank DeChellis. in my third year. It was special “Well, onto the real world a nine because it was the fi rst game Rent- to fi ve job. Looking into my coach A-Mom came to watch. licence so one day I will be able to “Let me explain Rent-A-Mom. I coach,” James says explaining her lived with Rent-A-Mom and Rent- future plans. A-Dad my fi rst two years here at James played fi ve seasons with Niagara, they are family friends. the Knights women’s basketball Rent-A-Dad always came to the team, playing in 64 games, scoring games; he was dedicated. As for over 500 points and netting over 67 Rent-A-Mom, basketball was not three point shots. her thing, yet Rent-A-Dad said, She also led the team in three- ‘I am going to the game,’ and she point shots over the past fi ve sea- said, ‘I am coming too.’ Rent-A- sons. Mom passed away October 2009.” James left one message to the Many people within the Knights’ Knights who follow her. Jessica James, goes up for running shot in a game against the Sheridan College Bruins of Oakville. James is organization have had a huge im- “Dedication, determination and leaving the Knights after fi ve seasons of playing. pact on James. discipline will take you a long Photo by Bernard Cooper “I do not think I can pick just one way.”

Jessica James is trying to fi nd someone to pass the ball to in the Knights Feb. 27 game against the St. Jessica James is seen going up for a layup against the Fanshawe College Lawrence Vikings. Falcons of London. Photo by Bernard Cooper Photo by Bernard Cooper March 19, 2010 NIAGARA NEWS Page 33 SPORTS Amateur driver chasing his Formula dreams By AARON JANKOWSKI 10 countries and was held at the Infi - his family. Staff Writer neon Raceway in Sonoma, Calif.The “My dad always said to me he will On the last corner of the last lap of a JRFDS judged the drivers on speed, support me as much as he can, until race in Puebla, Mexico, a young man precision and car control. Among the it starts sacrifi cing our family’s life- takes the lead in front of about 60,000 panel of judges was double Le Mans style,” says Ellis, adding, “If that hap- screaming fans and doesn’t look back. 24-Hour race winner, Allan McNish. pens he’s cutting the cord.” “Getting on the podium in Mexico “Winning the JRFDS was absolutely He says his parents have gone “far is absolutely the greatest moment in incredible,” says Ellis, adding, “Just above and beyond” when it comes to my life,” says Alex Ellis. to know that I was picked by an ex-F1 supporting him. “Nothing can describe the feel- driver, Allan McNish, to be the top of He also credits his father, Brian, as ing of that many people screaming the 40 best young drivers from around his biggest infl uence, though Lewis [my] name, with a big Canadian the world is one of the best feelings of Hamilton, the fi rst black driver in F1, fl ag above [me].” my life.” is his racing hero. Ellis, 18, of St. Catharines, For winning the competition, El- “He has allowed me to make nearly got his fi rst taste of victory lis received a fully funded season in every decision on where and when I behind the wheel in his fi rst the Jim Russell Championship Series race,” says Ellis about his father. race, winning by over 18 sec- (JRCS), as well as coaching oppor- “Even if it’s a $50,000 decision. onds, and he hasn’t looked tunities. He has trusted me to make the right back since. Racing in the JRCS puts Ellis right decision.” On Dec. 22, 2009, Ellis on track to where he wants to be, and He says his father’s infl uence has was named the co-win- only four years after he fi rst started also taught him maturity and reason- ner of the inaugural Jim to race go-karts at Cameron Motor- ability. Russell Future Drivers sports in Hamilton, Ont. How far Ellis has come in only four Search (JRFDS), a The winner of the JRCS will re- years of racing may come as a shock to competition that set ceive a fully funded drive in the 2011 some, but not him. out to fi nd the best FIA Formula Two Championship. The “beyond competitive by nature” young talent from the The European-based series is one Ellis says he has a “crazy hunger to al- worlds of karting and step below the pinnacle of the sport, ways be the best at what [he is] doing,” junior formula car and Ellis’s ultimate goal, F1. and he has always had it. racing. The winner of the F2 series is Alhough a future in F1 is his main It featured awarded a tryout with the Williams goal, Ellis, who graduated from St. 40 drivers F1 team, while the top three fi nish- Francis Secondary School in 2009, from ers qualify for their FIA superlicence, says he has kept his grades “good which is needed to compete in F1. enough” so that if racing takes a turn Ellis says his goal of driving in F1 for the worse, he can return to school. was born when he watched his His plans are to study civil engineer- fi rst F1 race on television at a ing. But as for now, “Racing is my very young age. life,” says Ellis. After that, he wanted to try “I love the feeling of winning. I love go-karting. the passion surrounding every aspect After performing well in of the sport. I love the feeling of going his fi rst pro races, “people astronomically fast, while being in 100 started supporting me, and I per cent control of the cars’ every move realized I had something big ... I am in full control of something do- going,” says Ellis. ing mindboggling tasks. There is no A lot of the support Ellis ABS, no traction control, no stability was receiving came from control, nothing but me and the car.” ALEX ELLIS

Ellis’s car- the FJR-50 • Manufactured by Lola Cars • Carbon fi bre composition • V-Max 190MPH • 4 cylinder, inline • Displacement 1998 cc • 300bhp horsepower • 240lb/ft torque • 7,500 max RPM • Sequential 5-speed transmission • 0-60MPH in 2.6 seconds • Engine- Mitsubishi 4G63 Evolution 9 Alex Ellis fi ghts against the bad weather at the Infi neon Raceway in Sonoma, Calif. Submitted photos Page 34 NIAGARA NEWS March 19, 2010 SPORTS

Mike Bonanno embraces Dominican resident Francisco Beltre in appreciation of a sunset. Bonanno visited the Dominican Republic to speak to under-privileged children about perseverance and determination. Submitted photo ‘Family fi rst’ for young sports agent

By JASON COSTA professional baseball – what else kick-start his prospective success. superstar. He’s enthusias- sphere, Oak Sports Management Staff Writer could you ask for?” He hadn’t even thought about giv- tic, honest and forthright.” values its clients, arranging events It took an unfortunate turn of That was when it happened. ing up. Having known Bonanno for 17 from Armani suit rentals to wed- events to bring him back. He suffered a torn ulnar collat- He teamed up with Don Webster years, he has kept in touch with him ding planning. As if suffering a career-ending eral ligament as well as an injury and Peter Lambert to create Oak throughout his athletic and busi- “It’s a ruthless business. We injury wasn’t enough, one of the to his rotator cuff that left him with Sports Management, an interna- ness career, and is thankful to share are the biggest baseball agency in youngest baseball agents in history limited options. tional athlete management and a partnership in their company. Canada. It didn’t happen overnight, was forced to make a decision that “It was either stay and enter re- representation fi rm, adventure he “He is way beyond his years. I al- and we still have a long way to go. altered his life forever, though giv- hab or come home.” had always wanted to try. ways knew Mike would be a great I think we’re on the right path.” ing up his dreams was just a start. “I’ve always wanted to be a agent because of his love for the Besides access to closed-door After receiving a scholarship to sports agent,” he says, laughing. “I game. He is a young fellow who Major League Baseball meetings play baseball at Brevard Commu- always loved Jerry Maguire.” doesn’t claim to know everything. and meeting legends of baseball, he nity College, in Melbourne, Fla., His title is Oak Sports Manage- He is willing to listen and take lives out of his suitcase, and some- Michael Bonanno, 23, of Kilbride, ‘I was living a ment’s vice-president of athlete advice.” times his pocket, to help maintain Ont., was living his dream. representation, and his prowess He wakes every morning at 6:30 the success of his business. Playing under Ernie Rosseau, dream, to the and determination continue to help a.m. and doesn’t feel the cool of “I don’t really want fame. I want former St. Louis Cardinals player him stand out in the industry. his pillow until at least midnight. my players to be famous. and coach with the Chicago White average person, Client and Toronto Blue Jays Working well over 100 hours a “I want to be under the radar, but Sox, New York Mets and Chicago but I wasn’t prospect Randy Schwartz, 24, has week, he has never been this busy still have people [in the business] Cubs, he was on the right track. played with him and holds him in in his life. know who I am.” “I thought I was going to be happy. Getting high regard. “I spend my weekends and Within the next few months, drafted, thought I had a chance for “Mike is honest and genuine. nights reading he plans on visiting clients across pro ball.” paid very well to He’s always been likeable, and I or working. I North America as spring train- He was no slouch. He faced some feel really blessed to know him.” can’t remem- ing starts. He enjoys and tries his of the best players in the country, play professional In his enthusiastic and intense ber the last hardest to visit clients three to four as 21 players from his conference manner, Bonanno is set in his hopes time I went times a year in order to maintain a were drafted to the majors. Though baseball – what and aspirations. out on the good agent-to-client relationship. he only played for two years, he “I want to break records. I have weekend or “We have some of the best play- was selected to play in the Florida else could you ask the potential to be one of the young- on a date.” ers around. We have the nicest State All Star Game, yet his priori- est sports agents to negotiate deals With nine guys and we’ve turned down play- ties remained unidentifi ed. for?’ for my players. I’ve always said, employees and ers because they’re prima donnas. “I wasn’t sure what I wanted to ‘We can’t do this without players. a “team-based” I can’t deal with prick athletes. do. College baseball is huge in the —Mike Bonanno They can do it without us.’” atmo- My dream is to be there when my States. Huge. I loved my life there, Peter Lambert, busi- clients retire, to have them say, ‘I but I wanted to make money.” ness partner and want to thank my family and my Although his parents were sup- He now knew what it felt like Oak Sports Man- agent.’” portive and adamant that he con- to have his “dreams shattered” agement’s With a confi dent outlook towards tinue his education, he was offered in front of him. While coming to vice-president the future, he still holds his humble a life-changing opportunity, which terms during his fl ight home, he of fi nancial upbringing close to his heart. seemed to be what he was looking cried, but it was a choice he doesn’t management, “It’s a business, but family al- for: playing professional baseball look back on. supports ways comes fi rst. Always.” in Italy. “I would rather have had my Bonanno’s Leaving his friends, family and family and friends. At the end of “quick-on- Mike Bonanno, 23, is a co- part-time job behind, he took the the day, when [I’m] a family guy, the-trigger founder of Oak Sports offer and packed his bags. I don’t regret the decision for one attitude.” Management, an international “I was living a dream, to the second.” “I think athlete management and average person, but I wasn’t happy. Coming home brought back he is go- representation fi rm. Getting paid very well to play childhood dreams that helped him ing to be a Submitted photo March 19, 2010 NIAGARA NEWS Page 35 SPECIAL Raw food: nature’s way the best way By JOSH GRANT-YOUNG degree, making a diet consisting of Staff Writer raw, uncooked produce seem unat- Ethics? Sustainability? Spiritual tainable. However, this couldn’t be enlightenment? farther from the truth. Indeed, these may all be noble While there is debate over how pursuits, but a raw food diet can healthy, benefi cial or spiritually turn off foodies from all over the based a raw food diet is, what is dieting spectrum. true is the following recipes yield The majority of food consumed tasty results. is cooked or processed to some Save time and eat well. Avocado Gazpacho It’s a great cold soup to have between classes 1/2 teaspoon salt or as a late night snack. 1 tablespoon maple Adding a tablespoon of syrup (or use dates to olive oil adds flair to an sweeten) otherwise colourful dish. Combine all ingredients 1 cup water in a blender in the order Flesh of 1 medium avo- listed. Start blender on When it comes to smoothies, frozen strawberries taste just as great as fresh ones. cado, save a tablespoon low speed for a few sec- Photo by Josh Grant-Young to dice for garnish onds. Then switch to Strawberry Banana Smoothie 2 cups chopped cucum- high. Blend until creamy ber and smooth, about A great boost in the morning or evening. The addition of hempseed is for the 1 1/2 cups chopped two minutes. Pour into Omega 3 fats and protein that vegetarians and vegans can miss. tomatoes two soup bowls. Dice 3 cups fresh organic strawberries 1/2 to 1 Serrano chile, reserved avocado and 2 bananas with seeds, sliced gently drop them into the 1 cup fresh coconut water (optional) centre of the bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of raw hulled hempseed 1 large clove garlic, a mint leaf and sprinkle 1 tray of ice cubes (optional) minced with diced avocado 1 sprig mint leaves with paprika if desired. Place all ingredients in a blender and puree. Juice of 2 lemons Serves two people. Add more water if you like a thinner smoothie. It’s Tropical Mark your schedules! Thursday, March 25, 2010 For Niagara College’s 15th Annual Student Appreciation Day Event Back by popular demand... Throughout It’s 225 Tropical Eggs our way of saying the College, students “thanks” for choosing Niagara will find treats, giveaways, prize have been hidden College as your place to study, draws, food and campus store spe- work, live and play cials and many other throughout the college... surprises! find one and win a prize!

Staff of Niagara College wish to acknowledge with much appreciation, your contribution to our college community. Page 36 NIAGARA NEWS March 19, 2010 ON CAMPUS Th e pen is mightier than the sword Artist always carries his sketch pad By SETH HENNESSY condition by providing him with Staff Writer paper and pens when he was being Scott Nichols has a creative con- hyperactive. dition. Less of a condition and more of a It began young, “ever since I gift, Nichols let it take control when could hold a pencil,” as he de- he was able to look at his drawings scribes it. and say, “Hey! That looks how I His mother encouraged the want it to.” Nichols, 21, has been drawing for years but recently decided to share his work with more than just his trusted loved ones. Using the Internet he hopes to get enough coverage for his work to be no- ticed and hopefully begin a career of designing and creating art. Logo designs, cover art, posters, Scott Nichols puts some fi nishing touches on his latest piece. tattoos, portraits, illustrations or Photo by Seth Hennessy posters. Nichols is willing to fulfi l because that detail seems to be a College student in Graphic Arts, ers feel about it he knows where it any serious inquiries. prerequisite for Nichols’ art. understands not every creation came from and why it exists. As for practice, Nichols is in With a desire to make his pas- is art but the artist’s experience “He gets to see what he wants in the right shape to begin this public sion a profession, he has his art is different than the audience’s. the world,” says McDonnell while exhibition. displayed on Facebook and his Nichols hopes to be in the same pulling up one of his drawings on He admits to drawing for hours at his Decaf Art website at http:// program next year. the computer screen. straight if he is feeling “especially decaf-sdn-art.blogspot.com/ to “Inside you know what kind of It shows a man in an agonized inspired,” but spends at least two share and receive input. you feeling you get when you cre- state and a word bubble spouting hours daily at his desk. He has made contact with profes- ate something, and that you spent the words, “Work, work work,” Worked to Death “He has to carry a sketchbook sionals Jim Mahfood and Michael a lot of time on it,” she says. “I can repeated until they get too small with him to get freaking gro- Huddleston in the hope of getting know I am artistic in my head.” to see and then at the bottom, the ceries,” his girlfriend, Melissa some of that constructive criticism She says she may like a doodle word “dust.” McDonnell, 20, says of Nichols’ he knows will help him grow. she draws but that does not make The man being worked to dust occasionally never-ending desire He appreciates any compliments it art. does not represent Nichols but to create. about his work. The same goes for anything rather his mindset at a time when “It’s kind of like a melting pot,” “I really, really do,” he says, but more than a doodle because art re- he was unsure about what to do he says of his mind’s ability to savours useful criticism, because quires an audience’s satisfaction, next and felt caught in a Catch 22 hold everything in until an idea he knows it will help him develop negative or positive. of life choices. suddenly hits boiling point and his gifts. “An artist is never satisfi ed,” she “It was a feeling that manifested requires visualization. This desire to always improve says. “Some people don’t want to itself into an image.” “I go into another zone when humbles him but also ignites his give up on their dreams.” It is those forceful feelings I’m drawing.” search for new ways to do the Nichols knows he is not the only and creative aspirations that tells Cardboard boxes, rubber work same thing by using varied mate- artistic person in the world and Nichols it will be a long time be- gloves, face paint and melting rials such as crayons that offer dif- considers anyone from architects fore he stops producing art, if he snow against salt stains on the ferent shades of grey in an attempt to TV producers to fi t the bill. can never solely live off it. side of a car have all been part of to better channel what he feels. “That person is an artist in their “I don’t think I’ll ever stop Nichols’ creations. “If you can’t put out exactly own way,” he says. being creative,” he says but then Even his simple sketches feature what you want, then it is not your- For Nichols, his art is particular jokingly adds, “Maybe if I get to his knack for adding excitement to self,” says Nichols. He would love to him because no matter how oth- 80, then I’ll quit.” the normal and a realistic base to one day to be “solely surviving on the most fantastic images. art” but realizes that might take His art fi nds energy in faces, time. eyes, the words and colours that For the moment he is enjoying surround us yet each picture re- school enough and earning good By the Circle mains easily but subtly relatable. marks without having to subtract All artwork on this page was An unfi nished piece on his time from his “real” work. created by Scott Nichols desk already commands attention Jeremy Hennessy, 15, adds artistic fl air to his school work at Laura Secord Secondary, the same school Nichols once attended. He does not draw but in the last Don’t Save Money On A Haircut. two years he has learned to play Save Money On Car Insurance. the French horn and trumpet at school, the horn at church and Go have a professional cut your hair, because your State Farm® agent’s got your back piano for fun. with the right coverage and discounts up to 30% on car insurance. Call me today. On top of that he recently acted in the school play, a production requiring a lot of extra time from many dedicated students. Hennessy fi nds the activities rewarding and thinks anyone can enjoy the sense of accomplishment LIKE A GOOD NEIGHBOUR, that artful enterprises bring. Mark Guilbeault, Agent STATE FARM IS THERE.® 220 Main Street West “The fact that you are making the Port Colborne, ON L3K 3V4 music yourself is cool,” says Hen- Bus: 905-835-0521 Toll Free: 866-748-7062 nessy confi rming the that most art www.markguilbeault.com 

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