Taste of Greek Pita House Think Healthy Now Open @ Seaway Mall Food Court Page 20 Page 21 Student Discount Available Niagara News www.niagara-news.com Volume 33, Issue 6 Free Dec. 6, 2002 College wins approval to offer degrees By LORI LANGLEY starting in September 2003. and THOMAS CONNELL The program will enrol a maxi- Staff Writers mum of 36 students in each year at It’s a breakthrough. Niagara the college. Helping children smile College has entered a new chapter “This degree leverages the in its 45-year history. strength of two leaders in the field The college has approval by the to respond to the industry’s grow- Ontario Ministry of Training, ing need for qualified managers to Colleges and Universities to insti- help it compete in the internation- tute two bachelor degree programs al marketplace,” says Dave Taylor, in hospitality and technology. the college’s director of the “This is a very exciting time for Hospitality and Tourism division the college, and a historic moment at the Glendale campus in for post-secondary education in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Ontario, offering students a wider A bachelor of applied technolo- choice of credentials,” Niagara gy degree in photonics will be College President Dan Patterson introduced in September 2004 in told the Niagara News earlier this partnership with Algonquin week. College in Nepean, Ont., and with “The addition of these advanced help from Photonics Research programs will further strengthen Ontario. our areas of specialization in hos- “The photonics degree is one of pitality and technology,” he adds. the only bachelor’s-level photon- “They will complement our ics programs in North America existing programs and enhance and will address an urgent need in our ability to deliver to industry the industry for highly skilled pho- the highly skilled workers it needs tonics employees,” says Patterson. to compete on a global scale.” The provincial announcement Please choose a gift tag from the Student Administrative Council (SAC) Christmas tree in the A bachelor of applied business has Niagara officials expressing Learning Resource Centre and help a child smile. Robyne Simpson, 20, of Georgetown, degree in hospitality operations optimism about the two programs. management will be offered joint- reads a name from the tree. See related story about the SAC gift tree on page 7. ly by Niagara College and Photo by Meaghan Hutton Toronto’s George Brown College Continued on page 2 Teaching winery first of its kind in Canada

By KATE DESROCHES Winery is the first of its kind in MPP Parliamentary assistant for ings from Premier Ernie Eves Staff Writer Canada and has already pro- the Ministry of Tourism and and the Minister of Tourism Despite the dreary weather, the duced an award-winning Recreation; Patterson; Al Frank Klees. Wettlaufer says the Niagara College Teaching Winery Chardonnay. Schmidt, a member of the advi- teaching winery is instrumental had its grand opening with more “Canada’s first teaching win- sory committee and general for Ontario’s tourism. media and public figures in atten- ery is an exciting opportunity for manager of Vineland Estates “Ontario will receive many ben- Index dance than anticipated. Niagara College and the wine Winery; Wayne Lockey, chair of efits from this school, which will Page 6 Niagara Wines “It’s another great day for industry,” says Jon Ogryzlo, the Grape Growers of Ontario; contribute to the production of Page 9 Columns Niagara College,” says Dan director of the Environment, and Karen Rossi, a second-year great Ontario wines and great Page 13 Xmas Pullout Patterson, college president, Horticulture and Agribusiness student in the Winery and Ontario winemakers.” Page 16 Xmas Columns adding that the winery is “all Centre at Niagara College. Viticulture Technician program. Page 28 Street Talk about the students.” Speaking at the launch of the Wettlaufer spoke on behalf of The Niagara College Teaching winery were Wayne Wettlaufer, the province and brought greet- Continued on page 2 Page 36 Stevenson Page 2, Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002 ‘Niagara College is growing…’ Industry success in students Continued from Page 1 programs are in fields “where Niagara College is growing and Continued from page 1 Lockey, chair of the Grape Chardonnay and White Wine of “Both Niagara and Algonquin fits very much into our strategic Growers Association, spoke on the Year at the All Canadian Wine have played a leading role in pho- plans.” Schmidt is a member of the behalf of the grape growers of Championships is a special reflec- tonics education in Ontario, and Of Ontario’s 24 colleges, 18 are advisory committee for Niagara Ontario. “Some people say that tion of Warren’s expertise. this degree, with its combined involved in granting 34 applied College’s Wine and Viticulture great wine starts in the vineyard. “He is the master of focus on theory and hands-on degrees. Technician program, the director For Niagara College, great wine Chardonnay.” The award-winning training, will further support the Despite this welcome news, of the Wine Council of Ontario starts in the classroom.” Chardonnay wine is 2001 barrel- needs of an industry that is vital to Patterson says the changes in no and general manager of Vineland Rossi, a second-year student, says fermented and barrel-aged. the economic development of the way undervalue the status of Estates winery. “The success of joining the program was “the best The 2001 Zweigelt and 2001 Niagara and Ottawa regions, and diplomas offered by Niagara. our future industry is directly decision” she ever made. Riesling also received silver and the province of Ontario,” says Leo “An Ontario college diploma is proved by the need for students.” Rossi represented Canada in the bronze medals respectively. Tiberi, Niagara College’s director a highly-regarded credential. Its Schmidt says that winning an summer at the International In its inaugural year, the of the Communication and high level of excellence will award is the best marketing con- Sommelier Competition in France Niagara College Teaching Winery Information Technology division. continue to have great value in cept in wines and Niagara College and brought home a bronze medal. produced 450 cases of wine and Niagara College and Algonquin the job market.” has indeed drawn some attention. “We are the future of this industry, this amount is expected to double College have worked with Obtaining this status was “a Schmidt comes from three genera- and I am really proud to say that.” to include Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Photonics Research Ontario since very competitive process and real- tions of winemakers and says he Patterson recognized the work Gris, Chardonnay, Riesling, 1999 with the common goal of ly demonstrates the quality of our has seen more changes in six years of Jim Warren, the winemaker and Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, advancing photonics technology faculty and the strong support than his grandfather has seen in a winemaking teacher. Cabernet Franc, Zweigelt, Pinot in Ontario. Niagara College enjoys in the lifetime. Ogryzlo says the award for Best Noir and a Vidal ice wine. In 2001, the partners launched community,” adds the college the Photonics Education and president. “Our three ‘champions’ Training project, which included who led us through the whole the creation of diploma programs process – (Director of New at Niagara College at the technol- Product Development) Marti ogist and technician levels. Jurmain, Leo Tiberi and Dave Patterson says the program Taylor are to be commended for “will take advantage of the state- their superb efforts.” of-the-art facilities, including While the timing of the Niagara College fibre-optics and laser laboratories announcement poses a challenge Teaching Winery facts: that are already in place both at in terms of recruiting for both pro- • First teaching winery in Niagara and Algonquin.” grams, the college is “ramping up Canada. Niagara College is expanding for a vigorous publicity and mar- • Provides realistic workplace for its role in hospitality and tourism keting campaign,” says Darrell the students in the art of wine- training because of an $8.5-mil- Neufeld, the college’s manager, making. lion investment in its School of corporate communications. • Production of 450 cases from Hospitality and Tourism and the Niagara College has more than the 2001 vintage. Niagara Culinary Institute. It 5,200 students in more than 70 • Production of 950 cases for the recently opened Canada’s first programs at three campuses in Teaching Winery. Welland, Niagara Falls and 2002 vintage anticipated. Patterson says the two degree Niagara-on-the-Lake. • Wine is retailed on site. • All NCT Winery wines meet VQA standards. Congratulations, Dr. Zlomislic • Wine-making equipment valued Mark Zlomislic, professor of philosophy at the Welland campus, at $100,000. recently received his • NCT Winery has already won PhD from Collège dominican de philosophie four awards at the All-Canadian et de théologie in Ottawa. Wine Championships. Read his profile on page 23 in the Nov. 22 edition Niagara News.

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Saturday Dec. 7, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday Dec. 8, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Helicopter Tours • Dinner Tours Phone number is 905-641-2252 ext 4076 Major credit cards accepted. Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002, Page 3 Letters to the editor ‘Corrupt’ SAC accusations, only accusations Dear Editor: come forward with proof, so that we can quickly dispel It is equally important for you — the student body — to To the student population of Niagara College. these notions and give you the proper information. know that we advertise every way that we can. If you have I would like to address a number of issues that have To all the students who believe we do not advertise any ideas that might aid us in reaching a larger group, let recently been brought to my attention and that of the enough or misspend your money, I strongly urge you to us know. Student Administrative Council (SAC) at Niagara College. come into the office and speak with us. With the coming holiday season approaching quickly, First and foremost, it should be mentioned that in a We, the student council, are the governing body that SAC would like to urge all of you to be aware and safe. SAC recent edition of the Niagara News (Volume 33, Issue determines what happens to your money on your behalf. promotes responsible party practices such as not setting 5, Nov. 22), an allegation was made that SAC was a However, we will always hear suggestions. down your drink at parties, watching your friends’ bever- “corrupt” government. It is important for us to know what you want. We have ages and assigning a designated driver. This is an outrageous accusation, and only an accusation. received a lot of information from surveys but these do not Unfortunately, Rohypnol is still being used, escalating the I would like to make it known to you, the students, that any reach everyone. Each of you has a voice and we do have a chances of date rape. and all of our meeting minutes and our financial statements forum for you to offer input. The monthly student informa- If we are all careful, then everyone will have a good time. are available for you to read. tion sessions are a terrific opportunity for you to voice your Please don’t drink and drive and have a great holiday. All of council is also open to discussing any matter with concerns, questions and comments. Unfortunately, we have Season’s greetings. you on a one-on-one basis or as a group. had poor turnouts at these meetings. Our doors are always Andrew Hanes, The comments made by this student are of a bitter and open to students who need something done, don’t know Welland campus SAC president unfounded nature. If there is corruption, I urge any of you to where to turn or want to participate in council. and the rest of SAC Thanks to Brigitte Chiki A newspaper to be proud of Dear Editor: involved and keen to provide a Dear Editor: Ont.). Believe me, they are rags. Toilet roll wanna- Re: A Great Student Appreciation great day for our students. To all the staff at Niagara News, be. Pulp paper rejects. Recycle bin fodder. Waste Day. Many co-op students — who will Yours is a college newspaper to be proud of. The of good ink. Writer’s cramp. Know what I mean? I want to add my congratulations be out on co-op in the winter — articles each week are interesting and provide food I would be pleased to leave a copy of your and thanks and to tell everyone told me that they were very happy for thought on lots of different topics and issues — school newspaper anywhere. It’s not an embar- that I heard nothing but laughter that there was a Student not to mention the usual “this group/person thinks rassment to the intelligence of the reader. You and excitement all day long (on Appreciation Day in the fall now Niagara College is the greatest” articles. Which it take the journalistic credo of “... balance, fairness the Student Appreciation Day, because the students in their pro- is, as far as I’m concerned. and objectivity ...” seriously. It shows. Thanks to Thursday, Nov. 28). grams always missed the day Nice bios on graduates who’ve gone on to great the teachers in the Journalism-Print program and This kind of event is what makes because they were not on campus. things in their field. the students for a consistently superior school Niagara College special and I So this was a great success all Don’t get me wrong, there are still a few wrin- newspaper. kles to iron out here and there, but this is where Regards, want to congratulate to Brigitte around. Thanks again, everyone. your education dollar is maximized (sometimes Henry Van Weeren (Brigitte Chiki, Niagara College’s director student ser- Martha Casson, too maximized, that’s another story.) London, Ont. Vice-President Enterprise and I’ve read the rags from Brock University in St. Second-year Manufacturing Engineering vices) and her team, including the Student Services, Catharines) and Fanshawe (College in London, Technology Student Administrative Council Niagara College leadership for getting all of us What would you like for Christmas? Student wants answers about health plan opt-out fee Dear Editor: does this money go? If SAC or I recently picked up my health the college keeps it, I want to plan opt-out cheque and was know how they justify it. If the annoyed to find I was charged a insurance company keeps it, I $10 administration fee. want to know why they can Who collects this fee? charge me $10 for a health plan Does it end up in the Student that I didn’t ask for. Administrative Council (SAC) In the future, students should be coffers, or does the insurance given the option to not signup for company keep it? the plan, instead of making them Why did it cost $10 to give me signup and then allowing them to my money back? opt out at a later date, at a fee. It wouldn’t bother me if I had Many students already have signed up for the plan, and then coverage and are paying $10 for changed my mind and asked for nothing. my money back. However, I had It may not seem like a lot of no choice in the matter. I was money, but when you add up $10 automatically signed up when I for all students who opted out registered for school. the plan, somebody is getting a Only after I paid the $55 fee was whole lot of money for nothing. It was a special day on Tuesday when Santa visited children from the college’s Day Care Centre. I given the option of opting out (at Dusty Jackson He and his helpers were in the main lobby at the Welland campus. the bargain price of $10). Public Relations Photo by Amy Contois I would like to know where (Post-graduate) program Page 4, Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002 Dreams come true for recruitment team

By JASON GROSSE Staff Writer Niagara College’s recruitment team is seeing its dream come true. The team’s planning and work have led to record increas- es in enrolment and applications at the college. Randy Conlon couldn’t be more pleased. Conlon, Niagara College’s co-ordinator of student recruit- ment, has been in the business of bringing students to Niagara for 12 years. Conlon, 35, says what the recruitment team doesn’t have is a tangible statistic to it, but it is important. “It’s vital. It’s vital to the success of the college.” “Without recruitment, even if you’re full, you’re not get- ting the best students.” He says what the recruitment team does is go out and get the best students. Conlon explains that from the standpoint of money, getting them is essential because “the best students stay. If you go out and get a student and he or she leaves in January or after their first year, you can’t replace them.” Earlier in his career, Conlon says, he “used to travel all over Ontario,” but now, with his young family, he doesn’t. His newest role with recruiting is strategic planning. He says one of the challenges the recruitment team faces is the Niagara region becoming a retirement community. Coupled with this, he says, is the fact “we’re surrounded by two lakes and another country.” Pictured above is the Niagara College recruitment team, from left, Randy Conlon, co-ordinator of student “Our challenge is to get out there and increase the num- recruitment, Tanis Boak, recruitment/admissions officer, Al Vaughan, registrar, Krista Woodhouse, recruitment ber of students who enrol from outside the Niagara region,” officer, and Wes Brown, recruitment officer. he says. Photo by Jason Grosse Conlon makes it clear that his aim is to keep the student body at Niagara College growing to meet the goal of 6,000 Conlon doesn’t know what the future holds for him in the college. He says the blend of outgoing personalities has set by the college administration. He draws a parallel to recruiting. He says he won’t rule out anything as a pos- helped his team. large corporations like Coca-Cola or McDonald’s. “These sibility but it’s not something that he is waiting “pins Conlon adds, “It’s (recruiting) not for everybody. I’ve companies are huge, but they don’t rest on that,” he says. and needles for. I’m pretty pleased right now.” read that people’s No. 1 fear ahead of dying is speaking in “Recruitment is retention. It’s vital.” “The team is growing so I’d like to see it grow some public, so you’re not attracting a lot of people to this job.” One of the rewards of the job, Conlon says, is helping a more, and then who knows?” As of Dec. 1, Niagara College has a full-time enrolment of student who is “lost,” or when a student comes up to him in Conlon says he is proud of the job his team has done and 5,555 at its three campuses in Welland, Niagara Falls and the hall and says, “You were at my school. I remember you.” the members play an important role in the overall picture at Niagara-on-the-Lake.

PRESIDENTS MES- SAGE Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002, Page 5 Enrolment Planning means more bodies in classroom

By JASON GROSSE “feeling like I’ve reached them Staff Writer (the students).” This is the battlefield. Towards the end of the presenta- Each of Ontario’s 24 colleges is tion, Boak does just this. The stu- competing for the same students, dents seem to awaken and she is and it takes careful planning and bombarded by questions about execution to turn applications into everything from financial aid to bodies in the classroom. issues regarding the double cohort, Enter Tanis Boak. She is one of all answered with a smile. the members of Niagara College’s Boak later explains she has recruitment team and a graduate of stopped judging students based on the college’s Public Relations (Post- how they look because she has graduate) program. been surprised in the past. “I’m definitely not a typical Apart from not knowing what to salesperson, so I really couldn’t be expect, Boak says the monotony of doing this job if I didn’t believe in the job can sometimes get to her. what I was selling.” “On a Friday afternoon, after Boak says her job consists of 60 you’ve done 15 (presentations) per cent recruitment and 40 per that week, it can be a lot of the cent admissions. She adds that same (thing).” She says what when it comes to recruitment trips breaks this monotony is the fact she has to be flexible and “expect “every group is different.” the unexpected.” “That’s the one thing that keeps On this day in Niagara Falls, it different. You might be saying Boak is expecting a small crowd. the same thing for the 15th time She points out she usually doesn’t but at least you have a different know if she is “going to have one group of students that are going to student or a hundred students.” ask you different questions.” After meeting with the guidance The rewards outweigh the chal- counsellor she arranges her mate- lenges, says Boak. “I’ve already rials in the cafeteria of Stamford started seeing students at the col- High School. lege that were in my high school She explains that when she first presentations. I had one girl come started visiting schools, “I know up to me and say ‘Hey, you’re the that I was really being compared to Niagara College girl.’” Tanis Boak, recruitment/admissions officer, helps a high school student gather information on post- Randy (Conlon, co-ordinator of She says this presentation was secondary choices by showing her a Niagara College brochure at Stamford High School in Niagara recruitment at Niagara) ... some- one of the presentations that went thing I’m really feeling good about well. “I’m not always ‘on.’ Some Falls recently. Boak is a graduate of the college’s Public Relations (Post-graduate) program. is that I am starting to have my own days I’m, like, ‘That was the worst relationships with the guidance presentation ever.’” Photo by Jason Grosse counsellors.” Although Boak says Niagara’s Some students slowly begin to recruitment team has done well, make their way into the cafete- she places the onus on students ria; Boak takes time to greet each when it comes time for their student individually until all final decision. have arrived. “I want students to make their own Boak says she is the first to admit decisions. I don’t want to push any- that high school students “can be thing on them. I can let them know very hard to read.” This group what we offer at Niagara College but promises not to be an exception. it’s not up to me to decide whether Ten minutes into her presentation the college is for them.” and a few already seem to have lost By the look on some of their faces, contact with the outside world. Niagara College might have won the Boak says success hinges on battle for their tuition dollars.

IMPORTANT NEWS PRESIDENT Timetables and Grade Reports go On-Line!

2003 Winter Timetables and 2002 Fall Grade Reports will be available on the Niagara College website as of:

Timetables – December 6, 2002 at Noon Final Grades – December 19, 2002

Instead of mailing your timetable and grade report to your home, you can print your copy by logging in using your on-campus computer account to the Niagara web portal at: http://my.niagarac.on.ca

Your timetable is subject to change. Please use the website to print and verify your timetable before you return on January 6, 2003 Page 6, Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002 Niagara Wines Winery Get your passport for Angelfest open house By STEPHANIE HANSEN Staff Writer By STEPHANIE HANSEN culture, food and wine, and body, Events for the festival include Savour the season. This Staff Writer mind and spirit. Fantasy of Trees, gourmet tasting weekend, Konzelmann Estate Angelfest, running until Dec. With a $15 “passport,” you at wineries, romantic winemak- Winery is having its holiday 31, is the Niagara region’s receive discounts and get admis- ers’ dinners, a moonlight hayride, open house. Christmas festival, in its third sion into Angelfest events at var- Angels’ Workshop, Deck the During the two days, the year. ious places throughout the Doors reception, destination winery will be running a Angelfest offers a series of region, including The Brick shops, Angel Dazzle street light- series of workshops on cook- events and features the “Angel Room Gallery, 38 Lakeport Rd., ing contest, Christmas in Jordan ing with wine. Attendees will Trail,” following the wine route in Port Dalhousie, Gifted Village, entertainment and music. learn how to enhance their from Grimsby to Port Dalhousie. Presence, at 34 James St., in St. For more information visit meals by trying different The themes of Angelfest are Catharines and all 15 branches of [email protected] kinds of Konzelmann wines lighting and decorations, arts and the Niagara Credit Union. or call 905-945-6651. in everyday food. Samples of various wines will be offered for tasting and Wine program secret weapon for college will be paired with holiday treats. By KATE DESROCHES Triggs. this industry.” The winery will be handing Staff Writer Karen Rossi, second-year stu- The 20-year plan for the wine out recipes for holiday delica- The Niagara College Teaching dent and Sommellier Bronze industry is to increase employ- cies, including Konzelmann Winery and the Wine and medal winner, says she is very ment to 15,000 people. Cabernet Cake and Vidal Viticulture Technician program privileged to consider herself a The Wine and Viticulture Icewine Muffins. are Niagara College’s secret student. “It’s really exciting for Technician program shares the Events will be held each weapons. us. There are more and better six-acre Jack Forrer research day from noon to 5 p.m. at the The students in the program things to come.” vineyard with Brock University, Konzelmann Winery would agree. Jon Ogrzylo, director of the of St. Catharines, but has Boutique, at 1096 Lakeshore “The fastest way to get back Environment, Horticulture and recently added some vines of its Rd., RR#3, Niagara-on-the- into the wine industry is through Agribusiness Centre at Niagara own. Lake, Ont. this program,” says second-year College, says that 100 per cent Jack Forrer donated $50,000 For more information, call co-op student Sharon Cameron. of students are accepted to their to Niagara College for the vine- 905-935-2866 or e-mail the Cameron had previously worked academic practicum and are yard, an example of the degree winery at in the industry and is doing her evaluated by their employer. of industry support for the pro- http://www.wine@konzel- placement at winery Jackson “There are a lot of careers in gram. mannwines.com. Have a relaxing, safe and enjoyable break. We look forward to seeing you next term. Best Wishes

(L to R) Martha Casson, vice-president Enterprise and Student Services, Steve Hudson, vice-president, Corporate Services, and Beth Weldon, Chief Information Officer. Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002, Page 7 SAC tree gives smiles to kids Students learn to butt out By CARISSA PERTSCHY By MEAGHAN HUTTON by the community. The food bank, ate gift, although it doesn’t have to says Gould. Staff Writer Staff Writer where families can shop six times be overly expensive. Niagara is one of two col- Students are giving children a a year, is based on a point system. The tag and unwrapped gift can This Jan. 18, leave the pack leges participating in this pro- chance to smile this Christmas. The more people there are in one then be placed back under the tree behind. gram. “It’s a neat research pro- The Student Administrative family, the more points are given. and SAC will take them to the des- Whether you smoke a pack a ject. The program targets smok- Council (SAC) at Niagara College “The Christmas Wish Tree gives ignated organizations. All the gifts day, a pack a week, or just when ers who want to quit or cut has set up Christmas trees dedicat- families the chance to give their must be under the trees by Dec. 11. you feel like it, Leave The Pack down. It’s very hard to break a ed to children in need of a special children a merry Christmas,” says “Even though students don’t Behind is on campus again this habit that has addictives in it.” Christmas. Steven Souter, Community Care have a lot of money at all, I think year to help students who want Leave The Pack Behind can The Christmas Wish Trees are in part-time member. students should do this. You don’t to quit smoking. provide you with the unbiased the Learning Resource Centres at At the Maid of the Mist campus, have to spend tons of money, just Leave The Pack Behind “is a information you want. the three campuses. Each tree has something to let the child know student-led project with the sup- Everyone is different, and some been assigned a different organiza- that someone cares,” says Robyn port of faculty, health services, methods may be better for you. tion that the gifts will go to. ‘A lot of kids need Simpson, 20, of Georgetown, in student government and public Talk to one of the staff members At the Welland campus, they the second year of the Journalism- health departments,” says and get the facts on your will be sent to the Welland stuff and this is a Print program. Leanne Blank, campus program options. Community Toy Chest. This non- There are more than 100 names co-ordinator of Leave The Pack Some ways you can quit profit organization provides chil- great way to give.’ that can be chosen. The children Behind, of St. Catharines. include using nicotine gum, a dren with a merry Christmas in — Andrew Hanes range in ages from infants to 14. It’s a program for students by nicotine patch or Zyban. “The Welland, Pelham and surrounding Simpson says this was “an students. college drug plan covers municipalities. During the excellent idea” by SAC and she The project, operating at 10 Zyban,” says Gould. Christmas season they provide the gifts will be sent to Women’s hopes “a lot of people will get campuses across southern “If we can help just one per- children with a winter jacket, a Place in Niagara Falls. This orga- involved.” Ontario, is “a comprehensive son to quit smoking, we would hat, mittens, stocking stuffers and nization helps females in the com- SAC has been holding this event communication campaign consider the project a success,” a toy donated by the toy drive, munity who have been abused. It since 1999 and each year it is a designed to reduce smoking says Blank. says Mary Frith, Welland also educates people on impulse success. prevalence,” says Blank. “Leave The Pack Behind’s Community Toy Chest organizer. control, suggests preventative “A lot of kids need stuff and this ‘It’s hard to go cold turkey primary goal is to provide an “We have been involved with the methods and counsels families on is a great way to give,” says sometimes,” says Carolyn effective tool to enable students Christmas Wish Tree since the how to handle abusive situations. Andrew Hanes, SAC president at Gould, Niagara College’s health to cut down and quit smoking,” beginning. Niagara College is a This is the first year this organiza- the Welland campus. nurse. says Blank. great supporter of our organiza- tion has been involved with the Simpson says she took part to “We want to contribute to the “Most people need help to tion.” Niagara College Christmas Wish make a Christmas “better for a less students’ knowledge of the haz- quit smoking, so don’t be afraid At the Glendale campus, the Tree. fortunate child.” ards associated with smoking to ask for the support Leave The gifts will be going to Community Each child’s name was sent in “I had heard about the and to give them the tools nec- Pack Behind can provide. There Care, in St. Catharines. This orga- by the organizations and put on the Christmas Wish Tree from my essary to quit, including an indi- are no obligations and no one nization supplies emergency cloth- wish trees for students to select. roommate. I thought it would be vidually designed quitting strat- will pressure you to quit before ing and food. Families can use the Students and staff are invited to nice to give something to someone egy,” says Blank. you are ready. The program pro- food bank to obtain food and pick remove a child’s name from the less fortunate which they will, “Smoking causes certain vides non-judgmental support up secondhand clothing donated tree and purchase an age-appropri- hopefully, enjoy.” types of cancer. It’s definite,” and understanding.”

The Niagara College Student Administrative Council and Staff would like to wish Happy Holidays to all Students, Faculty and Staff. See you in 2003

Glendale Welland Student Council Student Council Maid of the Mist Student Council Page 8, Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002 Editorials

The Niagara News is a practical lab for the Journalism-Print program, covering the college community and other areas of interest. Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the management of the Niagara News or the administration of Niagara College, Room V10, 300 Woodlawn Rd., Welland, Ont. L3C 7L3 Phone (905) 735-2211 / 641-2252 / 374-7454 / FAX (905) 736-6003 Editor: Amy Contois; Associate Editor: Adam Campbell; Assistant Editor: Dana Blacklock; Publisher: Leo Tiberi, director, Communications and Information Technology; Editor-in-chief: Neil McGregor, manager, Communications and Information Technology division; Managing Editor: Phyllis Barnatt, co-ordinator, Journalism-Print program; Associate Managing Editor: Gary Erb, professor, Journalism-Print program; Editorial Consultant: Nancy Geddie, professor, Journalism-Print program; Advertising Manager: Linda Camus; Technology Support: Kevin Romyn; Photography Consultant: Andrew Klapatiuk, photography instructor; Photography Editor: Jason Grosse; Film Processing: Jason Grosse; Contact Sheets: Jason Grosse, Lori Langley Scanning Crew: Lori Langley; Marian Orleans. www.niagara-news.com Christmas spirit lost within our youth The child gets what the child wants. Those were the days. When we were young, Christmas was all about writing that long letter to Santa He-Man was a hero, and we all wanted to drive Hot Wheels when we grew up. listing all the things we imagined owning throughout the year. These days, children look to the toys for stimulation rather than using their imagi- The mystery of whether we would receive that one gift, underlined three times nations. and highlighted, was almost unbearable. This must be what has become of the computer generation. The night before Christmas, we would lie in our beds, unable to sleep from Advertisers and toy manufacturers have set the bar for today’s youth. excitement. It’s no wonder they feel children need to have the most technologically advanced We awaken about 4 a.m. and wait at the foot of our parents’ bed. It was as though, gadgets and gizmos. if we stared at them long enough, we could will them to wake up. Flashy commercials and well-funded advertising campaigns have made their Whatever happened to that feeling? homes in the impressionable minds of our kids. More important, whatever happened to asking for regular toys? Playing in the snow just isn’t fun anymore. Bring back Mr. Potato Head. We should all dust off our Crazy Carpets, take our snowsuits out of storage All today’s toys are high tech and complicated. Five-year-olds are asking for and show our kids what winter fun is all about. Xboxes complete with 3D video games. Perhaps there’s still a chance for this year’s spirit of Christmas to be reborn. They turn their noses up at classics such as Super Nintendo and have probably never known the true pleasure of playing Atari. AMY CONTOIS Canadian Football League, does anybody care

The 2002 Grey Cup was just a whisper in the wind. Grey Cup game. Does the average Canadian person, let alone sports fan, know what the Canadian That sure beats a Buffalo Bills versus Miami Dolphins in a National Football Football League (CFL) is all about? League game any day. From what I’ve seen over the years and especially this year, probably not. Grey Cup games aren’t played in domed stadiums or warm climates. They’re Those who actually pay attention to Canadian sports will know that Nov. 17, played in the coldest of cold weather. 2002, marked the 90th Grey Cup, where 62,531 people witnessed the Montreal CFL plays the way football should be played, three downs and a clock that stops Alouettes defeat the Edmonton Eskimos 25-16 in a down-to-the-last- minute show- after every play. down at Commonwealth Stadium in Edmonton, Alta. These aren’t the type of players who will sign a multi-million-dollar advertise- It baffles me that people are so ignorant of the fact that there is quality football ment deal with Nike. They’re the ones working at the Nike store in your local mall. being played in our own backyard. Read up on the history of the CFL. See what a rich history it has. Check out the The average Canadian can name who was voted off Survivor the last three years amazing stories, historical moments and career highlights of real men like Rocky in chronological order or voted off The Bachelor a few weeks back, yet can’t name DiPietro, Bernie Faloney, Garney Henley, Warren Moon and my personal favourite, the teams in the Grey Cup two weeks ago, nevermind who won it. Angelo Mosca. Not 35 minutes away, we have a professional team, the 1999 Grey Cup Champion If you’re not into reading, take a drive into downtown Hamilton. Beside City Hall Hamilton Tiger-Cats. you’ll find the CFL Hall of Fame, open Monday to Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 I highly recommend you spend, at the most, $30 (Cdn) to check out the heated p.m. Tiger-Cats versus Toronto Argonauts rivalry. It’s well worth it. You probably didn’t know that either. Watch a rabid Tiger-Cats fan get in the face of an Argos fan. ADAM CAMPBELL This rivalry dates to 1910, when Toronto defeated Hamilton 16-7 in the second

The Journalism-Print program wishes everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Have a safe one!

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Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002, Page 9 Columns Misuse of language creates annoyance It’s ironic that today’s society is so advanced we can place been reached.” Plateau is a level surface, so the phrase people on the moon, build computers that can calculate bil- should be used with a team that is in a slump, not a team that lions of commands per second and travel at the speed of By CARISSA PERTSCHY becomes victorious. sound, yet we can’t communicate properly. Staff Writer Some words are confused for other words, including the The cannibalizing of languages has been occurring since Column following: accept and except, effect and affect, disinterested language was first used as a means of communication. and uninterested, idea and ideal. Many of these words adopt People misuse and mispronounce words and phrases so the alternate meaning because of the proliferation with often that they become accepted vocabulary. which they are used in that matter. Some language is built upon words that are seemingly How many people do you know feel nauseous after a long pulled out of thin air. These alterations are used in market- less terms like “irregardless.” night of drinking? The truth of the matter is that no one real- ing gimmicks to gain recognition for products. How many As well, the definitions of many words seem to have ly should. Isn’t it a shock that people have felt nauseated salons can use Quik Kut or Klip N’Kut as names before been altered to fit the needs of a person trying to make a without knowing it? people begin using kut as an acceptable alternative for cut? point. As U.S. President Abraham Lincoln said, “Better to People even create new words by adding prefixes and suf- For example, when an athlete or team rises to a new per- remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak out and fixes to existing words making “new” and completely use- formance level, people invariably say, “a new plateau has remove all doubt.” Don’t be ashamed, everyone has done it I do it in the shower, although some people do it in their Whatever it was, and we’ll never know, it worked. bedrooms. If people ever tell you they don’t do it, they’re The way he seemed to use distortion as inspiration for his lying. Of course, some of us do it more than others. By MAT TAYLOR haunting rendition of The Star Spangled Banner has yet to I’m talking about the fine art of air guitar. Staff Writer be matched. No matter whom you emulate, whether it be Pete Column He and his group, The Jimi Hendrix Experience, which Townshend with his windmill-slashing, amp-jumping wails featured bassist Noel Redding and drummer Mitch Mitchell, or Eric Clapton with his blues-influenced licks, it all started virtually poured the foundation for such greats as Jimmy with one man, Jimi Hendrix. Page, Eric Clapton and Clapton’s Yardbird fill-in, Jeff Beck. Last Wednesday marked the late musician’s 60th birthday, so It is rumoured that after doing three albums with the it is only fitting that he receives yet another early epitaph. hand experience, but we’ve all seen the video footage. Experience, over 300 posthumous recordings of his work I mean, no matter what kind of music you like or who What was it about the man that made him so damn good? have surfaced. your favourite group is, you can’t deny that Hendrix was the Was it his original takes on the old guitar concepts of The next time you pick up your air Stratocaster or B.C. best guitar player who ever lived. Chuck Berry and Les Paul? Was it his overly large hands? Rich and step in front of the mirror, remember why you’re Flames, acid and afros were all common entities at a Or was it the fact that he strung right-handed guitars upside there. Without Jimi, you just might be playing the air Hendrix show. Unfortunately, I’m not speaking from first- down because he was a lefty? accordion. Have some respect, clean up after yourself Students are pigs. place where all members can meet. That is perfectly fine As you walk the halls of Niagara College’s Welland campus because the library has group study rooms available for that. and through the cafeteria, you see food left on the tables, By MEAGHAN HUTTON When friends just feel like hanging out or chatting up a garbage thrown on the floor and chairs all over the place. Staff Writer storm, that is not what the library is for. For that, there is a I would think most of the students are 17 years of age and Column Student Gathering Centre. That is why the school spent older and know this is a college, not a barn. Everyone here thousands of dollars to renovate it and make it more invit- is an adult and should know there is no “mommy” to clean ing for students to hang out. up after him or her. Most of the students who attend this college live away I work in the Learning Resource Centre every night and it from home or in their own homes. Sometimes I wonder who really inconveniences me, the fact I have to waste the whole moved halfway across the room and picking up the paper cleans up after them. Most likely, they clean up after them- evening cleaning up after sloppy students. airplanes thrown on the floor. selves because really, who else would? We are all grown ups and most likely can read signs or Personally, when I go into a library, I go in to study qui- I feel that because we spend so much time here we should know food and beverages are not permitted in a library. It is etly, to look for a book and periodicals, or sometimes to surf treat the college as our second home and take care of it. We a place of study, not a place for snack time. the Internet. I don’t go in for social hour. It seems many stu- can start by picking up our garbage, pushing in chairs and It is not only the food I have to clean up, however. It is dents are confused as to why we have libraries. throwing out our food in the garbage receptacles, not only removing the scribbles on the tables, replacing the chairs I understand if you have a group presentation and you need a in the library, but also in the halls and the cafeteria. Eminem isn’t typical, he’s a complex individual Eminem has hit the big screen. usual stereotypical routine. This musical talent makes some people sick. His distaste- Maybe he is tired of his own games and might be feeling bad ful actions, foul language and the way in which he feeds on By LESLIE BRANCONNIER about what he’s done. His guilt may have brought about these his own negativity has made some people hate him, while it Staff Writer changes because he realizes he’s a dirtbag, influencing youth, draws rebellious youth to him in droves. Column including his daughter, to be just like the character he portrays. Marshal Mathers, aka Eminem, is, to some, a revolution- I think it’s for the sake of his daughter that he calmed ary. What exactly is he revolting against? He fights with down his bad-ass ways. authority, but you see him at award ceremonies, almost as if He needs to realize what he does is not just some act in a he’s just another performer. game. It impacts on his real life and the lives of others. Eminem is not a typical rapper. Eminem is a complex hopeless followers he has recruited to make his message He has wholeheartedly become the rebellious character he individual living off the times. These days you can get away heard, whatever it may be at the moment. has created, so he needs to see he’s not who he has become. with a lot, leaping through loopholes, if you have enough His lyrics are about a wide variety of interesting situa- He is the character of his own creation, and that will be his money to pay the fines. tions, some being way out of hand. ultimate downfall. He takes things as far as he can, continually pushing out- Recently, he has taken his career in a different direction. His appearance in the new movie 8 Mile is just another ward the proverbial envelope to new limits. He lives for the Instead of being a white rapper fighting against whatever, he example of the out-of-control roller-coaster ride known as disapproval of some and for the youth. The youth are the is a singer just doing his thing, trying to get away from his Eminem.

Journalists, including those in the Journalism-Print program at Niagara College, are taught that their reporting must be balanced, fair and as objective as possible. That rule must also exist for columns written by reporters. In columns, the feelings and opinions of reporters are welcome, but balance, fairness and objectivity must never be disregarded or treated lightly. Our columns, which are clearly identified as such, do not reflect the opinions or feelings of the Niagara College administration or the management of Niagara News. Columns reflect the opinion of only one person: the writer. Page 10, Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002 Brendon by day, Kathleena by night By DANA BLACKLOCK runner-up at the Miss Rendezvous want to go and watch (a show). I Staff Writer competition and won Miss would like to see my mom come Life’s a drag. Congeniality. This year, at the out but I don’t think that will hap- It especially is for Brendon Entertainer of the Year pageant, pen anytime soon.” Deiter, 20, of St. Catharines, who he won first place. Deiter says he plans to do drag is willing to walk a mile in a Deiter says he looks up to a lot for as long as he can. woman’s shoes, literally. of other performers. “I have goals I want to achieve “Growing up, the thought of a “One person that I look up to before I retire my wigs,” he says. man dressing as a woman never and seek advice from the most is It started with winning even crossed my mind,” says Deiter. my friend Matt (a.k.a. Katana). Entertainer of the Year. He says It didn’t until he reached the He is the one who really intro- there are a few more things that age of 16 when his best friend, a duced me to (drag) and showed he cannot mention right now, but female, decided that they should me how to do it. Another per- the next goal he wants to achieve go out for Halloween dressed as former I really admire a lot is is taking place next year. each other. He says, he thought it Adam (a.k.a. Cassandra). He Although Deiter enjoys dress- was weird, but funny at the same went a long way in a short period ing like a woman on certain occa- time and went along with the of time.” sions, he says he would not want peculiar idea. Brendon’s drag name is to be a woman in his next life. “My friend put on my makeup, Kathleena Xyagara-Zorzetto. He “I love being a man. It’s just so Submitted photo (I) wore her clothes, and I bought Submitted photo says he chose his name as a joke. much easier, I think.” a cheap wig from The Party Store. BRENDON DEITER “Kathleena was my old best KATHLEENA XYAGARA- He says if he had to spend as It was then when I began to dis- in Hamilton, London, Toronto, friend’s name who hated people ZORZETTO much time on himself every day cover what drag was all about.” and most recently Brantford. who were gay, and I just know to. If it’s just a regular show, then as he does on nights where he After that evening, Deiter says Deiter says he has probably been she would hate that I am using I will buy the cheaper outfits, but goes out in drag, he’d go nuts. that he had forgotten all about on stage close to 100 times. her name. She is the girl that I if I am going to a very formal, “I find pretending to be a drag and that he remained as “just He’s been in four competitions, went dressed as for Halloween. important event then I will spend woman for one night a month is a boy in the closet.” It wasn’t until including Entertainer of the Year Go figure.” the extra cash for a nicer dress,” fun, but that’s it.” he was 18 years old that he went 2001-2002, Miss Gay St. Deiter says that prices for drag he says. Some upcoming events include to his first drag show and said to Catharines, and Miss Club outfits have a wide range. It’s dif- Deiter says his family wasn’t the annual Christmas show that himself, “I wanna do that!” and he Rendezvous, and he just ran for ferent for every performer. too fond of the idea of his doing will be taking place on Dec. 15, did it. Entertainer of the Year 2002-2003 “Some performers can spend up drag at first. Naturally, it took a and the Mr. and Ms. Gay St. “I have been doing it for about this past October. to $500 on one full outfit, and lot of getting used to. Catharines pageant on Jan. 26, a year and a half now and loving The first time he ran for then others will either shop at “It wasn’t until I brought my 2003. Anyone can come out to it,” says Deiter. Entertainer of the Year, he won Value Village or make their own grandmother to one of my shows watch. Both of these events are He says that he has done too third place. At the Miss Gay St. clothing. My roommate makes all that she saw what we were all being held at Club Rendezvous, many shows to count. He says he Catharines competition he came of his dresses. I try to find all of about and now she loves it. Other 151 Queenston St., St. Catharines, has performed in St. Catharines in as first runner-up, losing by the deals out there. It also family members are accepting, across from the St. Catharines many times, as well as performing only 13 points. He came in second depends on the event I’m going but I don’t think they would ever General Hospital. Being dedicated student, mother of 10 children isn’t easy By MARIAN ORLEANS Niagara wasn’t a difficult deci- have to make that sacrifice. In pleted four months of co-op at the the women who are at the associ- Staff Writer sion to make. order to achieve something, you YWCA in Niagara Falls. She ation’s residence have a history Being in college and taking “The college is also close to have to give up something.” worked as a crisis counsellor, life of alcohol, drugs, abuse, rape and care of a family at the same time home and it gives me a chance to While making it through her skill counsellor and empower- mental health. can be complicated, but a take care of my family.” two-year program, Balabyekkubo ment counsellor, assisting women Philip Durrant, of St. Niagara College student is taking As a second-year student in the says there are things she has in making choices and helping Catharines, a teacher and co- her chances at this objective. Social Service Worker program, failed to do as a student and as a them become more independent ordinator in the Social Worker Christine Balabyekkubo, 43, she says she has met lots of single mother trying to achieve in the future. program, says Balabyekkubo is originally from Uganda, West “wonderful” teachers and they’ve her goal. “I support seniors in their a “very hard-working student Africa, now a resident of Fort given her more “understanding “As a student, I’ve failed to daily goals. During my co-op, I who asks lots of thoughtful Erie, says coming to the col- and credibility of life.” meet my deadlines for class got to understand things that questions.” lege’s Welland campus was a “The teachers are very helpful assignments, and as a mother, other people go through in their “She always thinks of the per- “good choice.” to me especially with my courses I’ve failed to be there for my daily lives. I love working with spectives of the disadvantage With the help of a friend, in areas I lack understanding.” children consistently.” people.” person. She excessively working Theresa Anzovino, of Fort Erie, Choosing the program was her She’s a mother of 10 children, When Balabyekkubo isn’t in towards the needs of those in the president of the Fort Erie first choice. “The program is well eight of whom are her birth chil- school, she’s working as a volun- minority,” says Durrant. “She Multicultural Centre and a gradu- presented and gives insights of dren and two of whom are adopt- teer at the St. Catharines relates well to everybody. She did ate of the college, who recom- who you are and ways of helping ed. Three of her children are Association for Community very well in her first-year field mended Niagara to her, other people,” she says. attending colleges. Living and has been there for placement and has a number of Balabyekkubo says choosing “What I do isn’t easy, but I just During her first-year, she com- more than six months. Many of employment opportunities.” Charity Ball organizers confident in reaching goal of $4,000 tee chair. Proceeds to benefit Jennifer Koch, co-chair of the committee, said in a press release, “The Charity Ball will be an evening of student food bank fun and amazing entertainment because everyone By LINDSEY LEAMEN gets to dress up and have a great time with friends. Staff Writer The best thing is that the money we collect stays The 1920s will be roaring in with gangsters, glitz within our school. We’re basically students benefit- and glamour on Feb. 1. ing students.” Plans for the 2003 Charity Ball are well underway, The Charity Ball will be taking place at the Ameri- as organizers work diligently to make the “Roaring Cana Resort Hotel in Niagara Falls. The $40 tickets ‘20s” come to life. include admission, dinner and entertainment. They Last year’s Charity Ball raised $3,000 for the are available, at campus SAC offices. Buses will be Niagara College student food bank. The goal this available at a minimal cost, to transport students year is $4,000, which organizers feel confident they from all three campuses to and from the hotel. will meet. Special room rates are available to those wishing to The food bank is available to all students, and stay overnight. works on the honour system. It receives donations Although students aren’t required to rent period from Commisso’s, Canadian Tire Financial Services costumes for the affair, this is a black-tie event. Ltd., and proceeds from the Charity Ball. Students wishing to attend this evening of flap- Students from the Public Relations (Post-graduate) pers, martinis, bathtub gin and mobsters should buy program, the Special Events Management (Post- tickets before the holiday break, as tickets will go graduate) program, and volunteers from other pro- quickly in January. grams have been meeting and organizing every This is an all-ages event that requires proper iden- It’s beauties and gangsters in the “Roaring ‘20s” Charity Ball for Wednesday. Dave Rapelje is the Student tification at the door. 2003 on Feb. 1. Organizers dressed for the promotional photog- Administrative Council (SAC) liaison and commit- Keep checking the Niagara News for updates. raphy to be used in posters. Submitted photo Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002, Page 11 Manning speaks out about political life Former Reform Party leader unveils book in Port Colborne By THOMAS CONNELL coalition between the two parties has from both sides of the House of in public policy at the University of Staff Writer been floated several times but has never Commons. “I think Roy Romanow should Calgary and a distinguished visitor in Preston Manning, a man whose politi- been successful. However, Manning says, be commended for the tremendous effort political science at the University of cal savvy enabled him to transform a under Alliance leader Stephen Harper he has put into this, and the report should Toronto. fledgling Western grassroots movement there is a serious chance of somehow be carefully reviewed.” into Her Majesty’s official Opposition in bridging that divide. He goes on to question, though, exactly a mere 10 years, is once again a private “They don’t have to be merged into one how these recommendations are to be ‘If you’ve been in citizen and enjoying being one. entity. They can work together in other funded, proving he hasn’t shifted far from Manning was at the Roselawn Complex ways to defeat the Liberals. However, a his Reform Party roots. “It recommends politics for over 30 in Port Colborne on Nov. 28 to promote great deal depends now on who replaces more spending, but it doesn’t make any his recently released book, Thinking Big (federal PC leader) Joe Clark.” mention of where the money is supposed years and have to start - My Adventures in Life and Democracy. Manning says there were some miscon- to come from.” In an interview before his presentation ceptions about the Reform Party, which The controversy surrounding the imple- worrying about your to a sold-out audience, Manning demon- were barriers to its success. Of all the mentation of the Kyoto Accord provokes strated although he is no longer a part of misconceptions, in Manning’s estimation, a reaction very much in keeping with sen- legacy during your last the fray, he still has his finger on the the most politically damaging and per- timents of his home province of Alberta political pulse of the nation. He still has sonally hurtful was the belief among and his former Alliance party colleagues. 18 months, you’ve some clear ideas on “uniting the right,” some that the party was racist. “That sim- “I think we should all be concerned and a thoughtful opinion on every current ply wasn’t the case,” he says. “When the with the burning of fluorocarbons and been doing something issue from the Romanow Report to Reform formed the official Opposition their emissions, but this is just the wrong Kyoto. we were more ethnically diverse than the way of going about it.” wrong all along.’ Manning says he bears no ill will to Bloc Quebecois, the NDP or the Manning says he doesn’t believe the those in his former party, the Reform Conservatives.” Liberals were ever serious about imple- Manning says he much prefers the for- Party now the Canadian Alliance, which menting the accord at the time they mulation of public policy in the settings dumped him as leader in 2000 in favour signed it. “It was more of a public rela- where he practices it, as opposed at the of former Alberta finance minister ‘If you claim to be a tions stunt.” federal level. Stockwell Day. “If you claim to be a Responding to the suggestion the “Ideas and policies can be considered democrat, you can’t just accept it when it democrat, you can’t Liberals may be serious about implement- on their merits now in a way that could works in your favour,” he says. ing it now, as part of Jean Chretien’s lega- never happen at a federal political level, Manning says the much-discussed just accept it when it cy, Manning says, “If you’ve been in pol- where everything was always pushed to splitting of votes with the Progressive itics for over 30 years and have to start extremes. I found that very frustrating.” Conservatives (PC) is the only thing works in your favour.’ worrying about your legacy during your Of all of his political experiences, what standing in the way of the Alliance being last 18 months, you’ve been doing some- Manning misses the least is the House of seen as a truly national party. “It was thing wrong all along.” Commons in Ottawa. never a question of not enough votes in Asked about the much-awaited Roy Although Manning has left political “I think that it is a dysfunctional and Ontario. The combined votes of the Romanow report, which was released life, he is still involved in the debate over demoralized institution, and it is in large Alliance and Conservatives were more Nov. 28, Manning, although disagreeing public policy. He is a senior fellow at the part responsible for the way the public than the Liberals in many ridings.” with it in principle, responds with the Fraser Institute and the Canada West becomes cynical and turns away from The idea of building some kind of type of civility than earned him respect Foundation. He is a distinguished visitor politics.” WishingWishing YouYou

From the Staff of

Leo Tiberi Neil McGregor DIRECTOR MANAGER Page 12, Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002 College’s reputation influenced student By MARIAN ORLEANS co-op, which is a very good expe- “Welland is a nice and quiet helping me accomplish my goal.” Staff Writer rience.” place. Students can concentrate On Nov. 15, the Law Clerk With recommendations about on their school work, and there (Co-op) program’s 25th annual Niagara College’s good hands-on ‘The people are are less distractions when it wine and cheese celebration was experiences and practical labs, a comes to entertainment and held at the Welland campus. first-year student coming here very helpful in friends.” Danquah was one of the students says she has found what she was Danquah is planning to pursue who attended. searching for. helping me law or criminology at a universi- “The wine and cheese celebra- “I love my program.” ty level after she completes her tion gave me a very good feed- Cynthia Danquah, 20, of accomplish my two-year course. She has not yet back about my program,” says Montreal, a student in the Law chosen where she plans to study Danquah. “I had the opportunity Clerk (Co-op) program, says she goal.’ but is confident that by the time to talk to some of the lawyers came to the college’s Welland she graduates she will have made and law clerks who also attended campus because Niagara has a “The teachers are very helpful. a decision. the celebration and asked them “good reputation” when it comes They’re always there to help stu- One of the aspects Danquah questions about their jobs. I to practical skills in training. dents with their school work.” says she likes most about Niagara learned about the many job “Every student in my program Her decision was also based on is the people. opportunities I can receive from is expected to do eight months of the location of the college. “The people are very helpful in my program.” CYNTHIA DANQUAH Hands-on learning attracts student from Aruba to recreation program By ROBYNE SIMPSON Welland campus. finds some of the guys here “very aggres- says, she likes the Canadian culture Staff Writer “The Recreation and Leisure program sive.” Relationships in Aruba, she says, are because it is not like the small island Changing countries and culture for a was hands-on. I couldn’t find any other one more serious. “thing” where everyone knows your busi- young woman from Aruba can be quite chal- that was as hands-on as Niagara.” Women, on the other hand, have different ness. lenging considering Canada’s four seasons It can be a little difficult when class dis- When and if Hector decides to go back compared to Aruba’s constant warm weath- cussions involve Canadian and government ‘I just love Canada. I home to Aruba, she says, she won’t have a er. issues, says Hector. problem because of her gender finding a Aleida Hector (Ali, to friends), 21, from “I have no idea what they are talking will have a hard time job. It is more of whom you know than who San Nicolas, Aruba, says she chose to come about.” you are, says Hector. to Canada to experience a new atmosphere. When Hector finishes her program, she deciding if I want to go Hector says she is having a good time in “At first it was kind of hard because I says, she is not sure if she will go back to Canada but is restricted because she has no lived by myself and didn’t have any Aruba. back home.’ transportation. Hector would like to visit friends.” “I just love Canada. I will have a hard Toronto more often and one day shop at the However, Hector said, she didn’t have time deciding if I want to go back home.” appearances here than in Aruba. Edmonton Mall. any problems making friends, because peo- Hector says it would be nice to bring a “Everyone here is so pretty and skinny, For now, Hector is working the door to ple accepted her and were friendly. male back to Aruba. The main thing they with perfect boobs and a perfect ass, a Niagara Knights’ sports games and selling Hector made the trip by herself to Canada would have to get used to is the number of model for the perfect woman,” says Hector refreshments at the Mackenzie building col- last year to be in the Recreation and Leisure languages spoken on the island. jokingly. lege gym. Services program at Niagara College’s As for Canadian males, Hector says, she On living in a different culture, Hector Aruba is a small island near the Gulf of

We would like to extend our very best wishes to students and staff for a Joyous Holiday Season and a Happy New Year from everyone in Facilities Management Services.

Facilities Management Services — Welland Campus staff photo Kneeling, at left, Sandra Guilbeault, Peggy Farquharson. First row, at left, Kerry Nicholls, Bart Lanni, Sheila Piunno, Rocco Cifani. Back row, at left, Mike Czerlau, Craig Piper, Daryn Eden, Jean Dallaire, David Smalko, John Nicholson, Mal Woodhouse, Tom Brooks and Tony Scime. Absent for the photo- graph were John Frame and Gary Guzda. Photo by Sara Campbell Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002, Page 13 Happy Holidays Page 14, Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002 Debit card fraud possible this season By KATHRYN HANLEY The Niagara Regional Police advises that you watch for over- you, or under the counter, and this card or to make purchases over the Staff Writer Service (NRP) recommends that head cameras while punching in should be avoided. phone, via mai, or over the There are grinches who want to debit cards be considered blank your PIN number, says Cheryl The NRP warns that criminally Internet. steal your money. Be careful with cheques. If your personal informa- Venditti, greeter, and if you sus- minded merchants may swipe your Although debit card fraud has your debit card when out doing tion number (PIN) is discovered pect someone knows your PIN card twice using two different previously been a problem at the your Christmas shopping this year. by someone, it could be possible number, you should change it. devices, only one of which is Niagara Credit Union, only one According to a security notice for that person to wipe out your Venditti says, “You should legal. A second device may be member recently has reported a posted by Niagara College securi- bank account and spend the always make sure you’re watching used to retrieve the information compromised card, says Venditti. ty personnel, debit card fraud is a money in it. your card.” Cards may be swiped held on your card. This data is then “You just have to be so careful growing crime. The Niagara Credit Union with the clerk turned away from used to either make a duplicate nowadays.” Meaning of Christmas different for everyone By ASHLEIGH VINK orating contest. Rather, it is a happiness, yet for many it is a time “Ignorance rather than selfish- Staff Writer time to help others. of sadness, because some people ness” is what he deems to be the Money, money, money. Gimme, Churchill says on Christmas have nobody to spend the holiday ‘A lot of people problem. gimme, gimme. Is this what the Eve, when she was younger, her season with, she says. Nathaniel Devos, 18, a first-year spirit of Christmas is all about? family would go to church, then “It (Christmas) is about helping have lost the Police Foundations program stu- Arlene Churchill thinks not. She home to spend time together. others, not just on Christmas but dent, says, “Most people spend says, “A lot of people have lost the She remembers that her family’s all year round,” she says. meaning of hundreds of dollars on stuff for meaning of Christmas. It is not a stockings were never full of toys B.G. Cyr, 23, office administra- others that they will only use case of little gifts anymore.” and candy; they were filled with tor in the Admissions department, Christmas.’ for so long.” Churchill, 59, a day and an apple, an orange and maybe a says children today have been Devos says, “Parents are trying evening clerk at Niagara pencil or toothbrush. taught incorrectly by their parents — Arlene Churchill to make their kids happy.” College, believes the Christmas She says spending $200 on a when it comes to the issue of However, he doesn’t think that season is not just about what stocking never happened, Christmas and its meaning. the spirit or meaning of Christmas presents to give or how to outdo unlike today. Cyr says he “definitely” agrees giving holiday as opposed to a is completely lost because people your neighbours in the light-dec- Christmas should be a time of that Christmas has become a gift- time to spend with those you love “still get together.” Running into new year By JESSICA ARCARO tumes in the parade. Remember to make a non-perishable food Staff Writer Desautels says that more than When the crack of fireworks is 5,000 participants are expected donation to the Student Administrative Council’s heard overhead like giant popcorn this year. kernels exploding, the New York Registration fees vary from $20 (SAC) Food Drive. Road Runners (NYRR) challenge (US), for NYRR members regis- you to take off on a “four-mile tering before Dec. 16, to $35 The donation boxes are located throughout the fun” run in Central Park. (US), for non-NYRR members The Runner’s World Midnight registering on race day. Runners campuses. Donations can be made until Dec. 13. Run is a “great way not to spend a check in at the NYRR headquar- lot of money on New Year’s Eve,” ters at 9 East 89th St., one mile The Food Bank is located in the SAC offices. says Amie Desautels, public rela- from the start-line. tions manager for NYRR. Registrants checked in before 5 On Dec. 31, the party starts at p.m. on Dec. 27 are eligible to win 10 p.m. with music and dancing. a round-trip to anywhere in the A masquerade parade and contest, United States, provided by open to anyone wearing a cos- Continental Airlines. Holiday tume, starts at 11 p.m., and the hotel package prizes are also race starts at midnight. Keeping offered through the NYRR to the with New year’s traditions, non- top female and male runners. alcoholic champagne stops are Cash prizes, in US funds, of available along the four- $500, $200 and $100 will be given mile route. to the top three male and female The Staff The masquerade parade will finishers along with Runner’s start lining up at 10:45 p.m. just World gift bags. south of the 72nd Street trans- Anyone interested can find out at verse. Prizes will be awarded to more by visiting Aramark Canada the top three most creative cos- htpp://www.nyrrc.org. wish You and Your Families A CAMPUS GREENHOUSE Very Merry PoinsettiasPoinsettias Christmas Also available... Mumsettias • Mixed Christmas Baskets • Tropical Plants and a MondayOpen to Monday Friday -to 8:30 Friday to 5 pm and also Happy, Healthy OPENOPEN Saturday Saturday & & Sunday Sunday DecemberDecember 7 8& & 8 9 New Year 8:308:30 to 55 pm pm Glendale Campus Glendale Avenue at the Q.E.W. 6 inch pot $4.49 • 10 inch pot $15.99$14.99 Mumsettia $8.99 All proceeds to benefit Niagara College Horticulture programs. Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002, Page 15 Reindeer Blitzen on road to recovery By BRENDAN CAMPBELL not the same reindeer he used to Radar and Santiff were killed in “We’re all rooting for him to says. “This is a big chance for Staff Writer be, that’s for sure.” a tragic collision with a 747-airline make a speedy recovery and me, and I’m going to do my best. You know Dasher and Dancer In the summer of 2000, Blitzen’s jet engine, though some think it move on,” Santa says. “It’s a It’s what I’ve been waiting for and Prancer and Vixen, Comet and parents Radar and Santiff took a was because of their lack of expe- tragedy, it truly is, but we’ve got my whole life. I just wish it Cupid and Donder ... but do you vacation and flew to Florida, rience in the real world. a big job to do here and I want could have come as the result of really know Blitzen? though it proved to be a flight of “They’d never left the North Blitzen back on the team as soon another reason.” While the song said that all the tragedy. Pole,” says Ike. “They were like as possible.” How does she feel about being reindeer are known except “They left and everything was fish out of water ... they probably For the meantime, Santa has the only female on the team? Rudolph, sources close to the rein- fine. They were so proud that didn’t even see it coming.” called up rookie Astrid, who will “Well, I think it’s an honour to deer believe differently. their son Blitzen was being When he graduated from Noel be the first female reindeer to take be the first and to open the doors “I don’t think anyone really moved to the front spot with his Yuletide University (NYU), Santa a spot on the team. for female reindeers to get this knows anything about Blitzen,” partner Donder,” says Ike, an elf says, he was a totally free spirit, “I went to NYU with Blitzen; far,” she says. “As long as the rest Santa says, while checking over who helps to keep the stable run- seizing the day, though Blitzen just he’s a great member of the team of the guys don’t get any ideas and his list for a second time. “He’s ning. “Then we got news about hasn’t been himself since his par- and I’m not saying I’ll be able to keep their antlers to themselves, kept to himself quite a bit ... he’s the accident.” ents died. fill his reindeer shoes,” Astrid everything should be great.” Glendale students help needy children in crisis By MEAGHAN HUTTON “I am moved by the open hearts the birth of Christ. The very name for people to be involved in a sim- were delivered to more than 95 Staff Writer of our students who share so gen- Christmas indicates this. Blessing ple, hands-on experience that countries. Students at Niagara College’s erously. They are truly examples others who have so little is a testi- reaches out to suffering children. Church said she is “very Glendale campus in Niagara-on- of the spirit of Christmas Day,” mony to the spirit of love which is Each gift box consists of differ- happy” with the outstanding work the-Lake are making it a Merry said Erika Church, an English pro- celebrated on Christmas Day,” ent items, such as toys, school sup- the students put into this year’s Christmas for children in war-torn fessor at the Glendale campus. said Church. plies, hygiene items and other gift boxes. countries. Samaritan’s Purse is a non- Operation Christmas Child things that children might need. “The measure of a person is The Construction Engineering denominational Christian organi- sends a message of hope for The boxes are handed out to girls not by how much he or she gains Architecture program students and zation providing spiritual and children in countries where there and boys who are living in coun- in a lifetime, but rather by how the first-year Tourism program physical aid to people in need is a crisis in food, natural disas- tries that have overcome disaster. much he or she gives. A hearse is students took part in Operation throughout the world. ters, or war. Last year the college collect- never followed by a U-Haul,” Christmas Child. “During Christmas we celebrate This program is an opportunity ed about 200 boxes, which said Church. What would you give to your special someone for Christmas?

By BRENDAN CAMPBELL Helena Kaczkan, 20, of St. guy looks good in.” Batman tongue ring.” stuffed animal,” says Lindsay and SHARI HADGRAFT Catharines, who is a student in the As for what a guy goes for What do women have to say when Branciere, 18, of Mississauga, Staff Writers Police Foundations program. when it comes to buying a woman it comes to what they would like who’s a student in the Dental One of the hardest things to do “(With) most guys I went out with, it something? guys to buy them as a gift on Hygiene program. around the holidays is to find the per- (was) usually clothes or something “Something that she likes,” Brela Christmas? When it came right down to it, fect gift for your special someone. like a sweatshirt or a hoodie.” says. “Something she has an emo- “Roses and teddy bears,” says answers vary depending on the per- Some Niagara College students Tom Brela, 19, of Hamilton, tional attachment to.” Ashley Tolhurst, 18, who’s a student son and length of the relationship. If have come to the aid of those who who’s also in the Police Foundation Art and Design Fundamentals – in the Broadcasting – Radio, it’s a new relationship, the prevalent are stumped this Yuletide season to program, agrees with his classmate Graphic Design Production student Television and Film program. advice was to play it safe. tell you exactly what gifts they’d about the generic gift a guy usually Brad Van Reenen, 19, of Cape Town, Other students had ideas along “It depends on the girl,” says Joe expect to give and receive when it receives from a woman. South Africa, agrees. the same lines but had another addi- Grueter, 18, of California, “but prob- comes to the opposite sex. “Clothes. Usually go with festive, “My girlfriend loves Batman, so I tion to the list. ably a gift certificate to a music store, “(A) sweater or something,” says like sweaters. Stuff they think the got her a little Batman T-shirt and a “Jewelry or a sweater (or a) to play it safe.” Dutch Sinterklaas comes on Dec. 5 By ASHLEIGH VINK friends, embarrassing the recipi- Have a safe and happy holiday Staff Writer ent, and pointing out a general Sinterklaas, not just an old fat failure of character observed in season with family and man in a red suit. the past year. Sinterklaas, or Saint Nicholas, From his arrival in Holland till friends... was a bishop, who lived in Mira, his feast day, children can put their Turkey. He wears a red garment shoes in front of the fireplace. with a white dress underneath and The counterparts of St. Nicholas a headdress called a mijter, and he in Germany and Austria are called holds a golden staff while riding a “Knecht Ruprecht” or “Krampus” white horse. and show victory over evil. With According to the legend, Saint his “pieten” he visits children to Nicholas saved his town from star- punish the evil ones and reward vation. Some sources say that he the good. The worst punishment is died on Dec. 6 in 343 when his to be taken to Spain in a gunny- remains were taken to Bari, Italy. sack, out of which good children The Dutch tradition of get the sweets called “peper- Sinterklaas begins in November noten,” “taai-taai,” or “schuimp- when shops and stores begin to fill jes” and presents. up with many items. By mid- During the night, St. Nicholas November, Sinterklaas arrives in visits all the houses by travelling See you in the new year!! the Netherlands on a steamboat over the roofs on his horse, tradi- full of gifts. Waiting for him and tionally a white/gray (called his helpers, the Zwarte Pieten “Schimmel” in Dutch). “Zwarte (Black Pete), are television cam- Pieten” enters the houses through From the caring and friendly staff eras and an audience of parents the chimney to put little presents and children. in the children’s shoes. Sometimes in Student Services: Sinterklaas is held on Dec. 5 the children put straw, carrots and Aboriginal Education, Athletics & Recreation, when adults and children give water near the shoe for the horse. each other gifts with little It is unclear why, according to Center for Students with Disabilities, rhymes. The poems usually point the Dutch tradition, he comes from out the bad traits of the person Spain; possibly it has something to Counselling Services, Director's Office, receiving the gift. do with the fact that St. Nicholas Health Services, Peer Services, Sinterklaas for grown-ups is was the patron of sailors, butchers, much different. Children receive bakers, judges and maidenhood. In Prior Learning Assessment gifts from Sinterklaas if they have the 17th century, Holland was Office, Test Center. been good. famous for its navigation, so Parents receive “surprises” maybe it’s by contact with Spanish from family members and sailors this myth began. Page 16, Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002 One cherished Christmas memory musical sound of their laugh- ter as it floated across the By E. J. GOODER snowy field. Staff Writer I knew then my life could- n’t have gotten any better Column because, at that moment, my life was complete. Watching my family frolic in the crisp Christmas, thank goodness, is just December afternoon was heaven and a around the corner and it can’t come soon memory I will cherish forever. enough for me. I don’t know about the rest Suddenly, all three screamed at once. of the student population, but this has been They had found the perfect tree! It was a a very rough semester for me, yet I pre- six-foot, soft-needled Swedish pine. vailed and made it to the break. Hurrah! Jumping for joy, the girls and I left my My favourite Christmas memory was husband to his work. While Tom was busy when my now-grown daughters were little chopping down, dragging and hoisting our and my husband and I were young, happy tree onto the roof of our car, our daughters and in love. and I were busy making little snowmen and A few days before Christmas Eve my beautiful angels in the snow. husband and I decided we would tackle our Wiping his brow, Tom finally finished children and wrestle their squirming, little securing our Christmas tree to the roof of bodies into their snowsuits. our car. The three of us ran up to him and Finally, after what seemed like hours, gave him a big hug. everyone was dressed for the cold, so off He reached for my face and cupped it in Joie, 6, Chrissy, 3, and their dad Thomas S. Gooder, 30, visit a London, Ont., we went in our Jeep heading for the his cold hands to warm them, and the cold park in the 1980s. Christmas tree farm in the country. did feel good on my warm cheeks. Photo by E. J. Gooder Once there, my little ones, who were Hugging each other, we decided a cup of bundled in mittens, scarves and hats, went hot apple cider and a sweet sugar-coated Slowly, as not to wake our sleeping chil- year without him. waddling off with their father looking for donut would go nicely on this cold late dren, he slipped his hand into mine, raised Now — I have everyone calling their the perfect tree. winter afternoon. Sitting in our warm, it to his lips and gently kissed my wrist. loved ones and leaving messages of love Walking a little way behind them I’m cozy, living room before a cheery, glowing Smiling with pleasure at each other we on their machines. enjoying the sight of my three loves eager- fire we enjoyed our treats. watched the flames flicker, treasuring our I have to tell you, I did enjoy many ly inspecting tree after tree trying to find After finishing their drinks, my little short time together. happy, frolicking, boisterous Christmases just the right one for our family. girls climbed into Tom’s waiting, loving This treasured Christmas memory car- with my dear departed husband and many I continued to watch the three of them arms and rested their little heads on his ries me through the quiet reflecting time more as my daughters grew, but this mem- romping in the snow and listening to the shoulder, soon drifting off to sleep. when the old year passes into another ory is my favourite. Christmas, season for family gatherings What I didn’t know was that the spirit of Christmas is Christmas should be a time for family more than a time of always around during the season; it doesn’t appear on Dec. giving and receiving gifts. By ASHLEIGH VINK 25 alone. Over the holidays the malls and stores have become Staff Writer I never thought that there might be more to Christmas crowded with people looking to find the perfect gift than just presents. when, in fact, they had the perfect gift all along: love Column I never dreamed that anything but candy canes, choco- and togetherness. late, Yuletide goodies, presents and Santa Claus could be As the carefree days of childhood seem less and less part of this almost-perfect season. in focus in my mind, I cannot help but wonder if I will I remember as a young child, waking up on Christmas I recall going to my grandparents’ house after throw my children into the commotion of the holly- morning, running down the hallway only to look through Mass on Dec. 24; the smells, sights and sounds are jolly gift-giving Christmas season or into a family gather- the twinkling lights and be mystified by all of the perfectly now only memories. ing with only stories and good times to promote joy. wrapped presents to be opened. I would never have guessed that I would miss the compa- Times pass, and people forget, but the spirit of Christmas I would run into my parents’ bedroom, jump and yell for ny of family members during the Christmas season over the lives in each of our hearts and minds and in those of our joy, “Christmas is here, mommy. Christmas is here!” presents that we received from them. loved ones. Student wonders where true meaning of Christmas went with stuffing, mashed potatoes on the side and vegetables don’t have it, they get angry. surrounding the platter is the greatest feeling in the What I can’t understand is what happened to giving some- By MEAGHAN HUTTON world. one something from the heart? Who needs to spend hun- Staff Writer What happened to the true meaning of dreds of dollars on anything for Christmas? Christmas? When did it become so commer- The Christmas holiday season has now been Column cialized? turned into a big extravaganza and it’s I have worked in various retail businesses ridiculous. for several years, and Christmas is the biggest What would happen if there were no stores To many, Christmas means how many gifts you give or holiday of the year. I have seen many people and no presents. Would Christmas then be over? get, how much you should spend on each member of your fight over products and people go all out to I don’t think so. family, and what to give each person. spend hundreds of dollars on useless things. Don’t get me wrong. I absolutely love To me, this is not Christmas. It is not about the gift giving, Mind you, I worked at Laura Secord where Christmas, but I would rather it be about family it’s about being with family and spending time with relatives all we sell is chocolate and ice cream. No mat- members snuggling in front of a warm fireplace you haven’t seen all year. Just the feeling of having family ter where you work, this season is still crazy. with hot cocoa, than sitting in front of an evergreen tree around me enjoying a wonderful Christmas turkey garnished People come in looking for the perfect gift and when you ripping up wrapping paper.

Journalists, including those in the Journalism-Print program at Niagara College, are taught that their reporting must be balanced, fair and as objective as possible. That rule must also exist for columns written by reporters. In columns, the feelings and opinions of reporters are welcome, but balance, fairness and objectivity must never be disregarded or treated lightly. Our columns, which are clearly identified as such, do not reflect the opinions or feelings of the Niagara College administration or the management of the Niagara News. Columns reflect the opinion of only one person: the writer. Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002, Page 17 Christmas Past Christmas trees weren’t always tradition By ELYSE DEBRUYN summer when green plants would grow and the sun god damask tablecloth. The tree was decorated with Staff Writer would be strong again. garlands, candies and paper flowers. Christmas is the time of year to be with friends and fam- The first Christmas tree appeared in Alsace in 1521. It Around the end of the 18th century, the ily, eat great food and and wait for the chance to rip the was used in the same way as Christmas trees today, but Christmas tree was introduced to Canada, long wrapping paper off the presents. without the festive lights. before it became a common practice in Long ago, people hung evergreen boughs over their Princess Helene de Mecklenbourg introduced England. Ornaments were homemade and doors and windows just as people today decorate their Christmas trees to France. She brought one to Paris after eventually commercially produced. homes during the festive season with spruce, pine and fir her marriage to the Duke of Orleans. In the middle of the 17th century, people trees. They hung evergreen boughs because they believed Around the 18th century in Germany, France and decorated their tree with little beeswax doing so would keep away witches, ghosts, evil spirits Austria, the custom of decorating a Christmas tree candles, but these were replaced at the and illness. was established. beginning of the 20th century with The longest day of the year in the Northern hemisphere In 1841, England’s Prince Albert, Queen strongs of electric bulbs. is Dec. 21. It is called the winter solstice. Victoria’s husband, set up a Christmas tree at Generally, Christmas trees are To many ancient people, the sun was a god and every Windsor Castle. The custom of erecting Christmas still decorated with homemade year winter came because the sun god had become sick trees spread quickly from the royal court to middle- touches with presents set under the and weak. They celebrated the solstice because it meant class people then to working people. lowest boughs waiting for the the sun god was beginning to get well. They would put A good Christmas tree, to Victorians, had to be six exciting day when the wrapping paper will evergreen boughs up because it reminded everyone of branches tall and placed on a table covered with a white come off revealing the gifts beneath. Legend of gift-giving Santa hasn’t changed By ELYSE DEBRUYN away all of his inherited wealth to the sick tied to the Catholic Church. Therefore, In other countries Santa is depicted the Staff Writer and poor. The historical Saint each country or region developed its same way, but is known by a Over the years, the legend of Santa Claus Nick was credited in early own gift-giver. different name. has grown and he remains the legendary Christian legend with sav- In France he was known as People in Austria call him Christkind. gift-giver. ing storm-tossed sailors, Pére Noel. In England he was In Belgium and the Netherlands, people Most people see him as a jolly, fat man defending young children Father Christmas, and call him Noel, Saint Nicholas, Christkind with a white beard, dressed in a red suit and giving generous gifts Germans knew him as and Black Pete. Brazilians use Papa Noel, trimmed with white fur, driving a sleigh full to the poor. He was the Weihnasmann (Christmas and in the Danes call him Julinisse. He’s of toys and pulled by eight tiny reindeer. most popular saint in man.) The Russians began to Old Man Christmas in Finland, while Santa, also called Saint Nick, visits all the Europe. call him Grandfather Frost, Italians call him Befana. The Japanese good girls and boys around the world on Nicholas was some- a man who wore blue use Santa Kurohsu. Mexicans use Three Christmas Eve. He enters houses through times said to ride instead of the tradi- Kings, and Polish people call him Star the chimney to leave presents under the through the sky on a tional red, after the Man or Wise Men. Christmas tree and in stockings. horse. He wore a bish- Communists took From 1931 to 1964, artist Haddon This image of Santa is a North American op’s robe and some- over in Russia and Sundblom created a new Santa each invention of the 19th century, but it has times had a side- outlawed Christianity. Christmas for Coca-Cola advertisements ancient European roots and continues to kick by the name To the Dutch, he was that appeared worldwide on the back cov- inspire the festive celebration of Christmas of Black Peter, an Sinterklaas, a name that ers of The Saturday Evening Post and throughout the world. elf whose job it was eventually was mispro- National Geographic magazine. Santa Claus can be traced back hundreds to whip the naughty nounced in America becoming Santa This is the Santa we know and love of years to a monk named St. Nicholas. It children. Claus. These Santas had costumes in every today with a red suit trimmed with white is believed that Nicholas was born some- When the Reformation took place, the colour of the rainbow, including black, but fur, black leather boots and belt, long time around 280 AD in Myra, Turkey. He Protestants didn’t want Saint Nicholas as they all had long white beards and carried white beard and a pack of toys slung over was known for his kindness by giving their gift-giver because he was too closely gifts for the children. his back. Opening Christmas presents began on New Year’s Eve By ELYSE DEBRUYN until Japanese production took over the market in the 20th children might find a small homemade toy, but rarely a Staff Writer century. store-bought toy. When Christmas morning comes, the tradition begins At that time there was a big difference between toys The North American tradition of Christmas stockings with finding a gift under the tree, giving it a little shake for girls and boys. Girls received toys linked to their dates back to the end of the 19th century. Thomas Nast, and tearing off the colourful wrapping paper. future roles as mothers and housewives. Some illustrator, and George Webster, writer, were the first The custom of giving Christmas presents is relatively gifts included dolls, miniature stoves with pots to mention Christmas stockings hung from a chimney new in Canada. From the beginning of New France to the and pans, sets of dishes, irons, washing in a story about a visit from Santa Claus. end of the 19th century, gifts were exchanged at New machines and other doll-sized furniture. Boys At the beginning, children put their shoes close Year’s. Newspaper advertising gave people the idea to were given miniature fire trucks and to the fireplace so the Infant Jesus and later Pere give some of their presents at Christmas and the rest at police cars, small delivery vans and Noel could put gifts in them on Christmas Eve. New Year’s. cars, trains, lead soldiers, sets of wood- Some families in Quebec hung their stockings at At the end of the 19th century, middle-class people began en blocks, mechanical toys and car- the end of their bed instead of hanging them to give their children presents at Christmas. Department penter’s tool boxes. close to the fireplace or putting their shoes out. stores suggested a wide selection of gifts for adults to give These toys were only for the upper- This ended in the 1930s when Christmas trees one another and a variety of toys to give to their children. middle-class children until the end of with gifts under them started to be set up in With the growing popularity of Santa Claus, presents came the Second World War. Children of houses. to be exchanged only at Christmas. working-class families expected Considering what working-class families In the 1860’s, German-made toys were advertised by more modest gifts in their stockings, like got in their stockings back then, how would children department stores. Their dominance of the market lasted oranges, candies and gingerbread men and dolls. The lucky today react to an orange in their stocking? Different dinners for different countries around the world By ELYSE DEBRUYN is brought out. A Christmas log, with enough money can afford a special includes casseroles of macaroni, rutabaga, Staff Writer cake made with cream, is pre- Christmas meal. Their dinner includes carrot and potato with cooked ham or Mouth-watering turkey, delicious stuff- pared for dessert. chicken, turkey, ham, rice, salad, pork, turkey. ing, creamy gravy, crisp vegetables, rich Santa Claus fresh and dried fruits and often beer is In Latvia, the special Christmas Day mashed potatoes, fresh rolls, and steamy delivers pre- served. Those with less money might meal is cooked brown peas with bacon apple pie are all yummy foods most people sents on only serve chicken and rice. sauce, small pies, cabbage and sausage. expect for Christmas dinner. Dec. 6 with People in Finland thoroughly At midnight on Christmas Eve, salted Other countries eat their Christmas the Belgians clean their homes for the three holy dry cod-fish with boiled potatoes is eaten meals differently than most Canadians are call Saint days of Christmas, Christmas Eve, by the Portuguese. used to. Nicholas Day. Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Sweden eats ham, herring fish and brown A special meal is common on Christmas In Brazil, On Christmas Eve, a special meal of beans on Christmas Eve. Eve for Belgians. It usually starts with a many Christmas cus- rice, porridge and plum fruit juice is eaten With different cultures eating many dif- drink and “nibbles,” followed by a starter toms are similar to those of the United in the morning. The traditional Christmas ferent foods, Christmas dinner seems so course like sea-food. After a stuffed turkey States and United Kingdom. The families dinner, which is served in the evening, much better. Page 18, Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002

Swedes have two months of Christmas By ROBYNE SIMPSON with white lichen and paper-mache a white robe and a head wreath with and potatoes is served on Christmas ically American tradition of watch- and LINDSEY LEAMEN mushrooms or red berries. candles. With this on, she serves the Eve, says Eriksson. ing “From All of Us to All of You,” Staff Writers The origins of the Advent wreath family St. Lucia buns (Lussekatter) Traditionally it was common to a Disney special. Sometimes gifts Despite being halfway across the are found in the folk practices of the and coffee in bed. leave a bowl of porridge for have to wait to be handed out until world on a completely different pre-Christian Germanic peoples Kalle Eriksson, 24, a political sci- Jultomen, a cross between a little after Kalle Anka, Donald Duck. continent and speaking another lan- who, during the cold December ence student in Sweden, says that gnome and the German/British Traditionally, Swedish people guage, the Swedes celebrate darkness of Eastern Europe, gath- the St. Lucia’s Day traditions are Santa Claus, but, Eriksson says, spend Christmas in church. Christmas in a way almost indistin- ered wreaths of evergreen and lit still common. times have changed. However, Eriksson says, most guishable from ours. fires as signs of hope of a coming “Every year schools have a per- “Yes, you can do that, but it is not Swedish people do not enage in that In Sweden, the celebration of spring and renewed light. One can- son that is Lucia, and every city so common anymore. You give practice that anymore. He says now Christmas lasts for nearly two dle is lit the Sunday of the first week chooses their own Lucia. The whole Jultomen something ‘strong’ to it is more likely Swedes go to mid- months. The festivities begin with and then another each succeeding country can choose a Lucia that’s drink, like gluhwein, vodka or night Mass on Christmas or early in Advent, and a candle is lit on an week until Dec. 25. A short prayer for the whole country, like a beauty whiskey.” the morning on Dec. 25. Advent wreath every Sunday before may accompany the lighting. contest.” Christmas Day is celebrated on The holiday season finishes on Jan. Christmas. The Advent wreath is Dec. 13 is St. Lucia’s Day. The A large dinner including ham, Dec. 24 when families and friends 13, or the 20th day of Knut, when the made of a stick that is decorated eldest daughter in the family wears meatballs, bread, sausages, turkey exchange gifts and take part in a typ- Christmas tree is taken down. St. Nick comes on Dec. 6 for Swiss children By CARISSA PERTSCHY “Santa will tell the Christmas This way (it’s) always a real tree, window and brings presents for consists of anything from hot Staff Writer Child whether or not you have and it is decorated with real can- everyone,” says Roduner. ham, to traditional Swiss sausage He comes early to see whether been good or bad, and if you or anything as fancy as meat fon- or not you’ve been good. should receive any presents. He due,” she says. In Switzerland, Santa Claus will also take in requests of what Roduner and her family comes Dec. 6 to make sure you want for Christmas and pass moved from Teufen, you’ve been good all year long. it on to the Christmas Child.” Appenzell, Switzerland, to “If you have been good, he will In Switzerland, Santa Claus is Canada May 9, 1996. reward you with a sack full of not part of Christmas traditions. Although they live in Canada, goodies — usually clementines, “Christmas in Switzerland isn’t she says they still have their nuts, cookies and, of course, tra- as big of a deal as it is here in Swiss traditions. “We have start- ditional Swiss chocolate,” says Canada,” says Roduner. ed to mix the Canadian traditions Silvana Roduner, 16, of “Families don’t put their in with the Swiss ones. We no Crediton, Ont. Christmas tree up until Dec. 24. longer have Santa on Dec. 6, and we decorate more the Canadian dles that get lit.” After Christkindil leaves, the way now; however, we still open There are no Christmas decora- children are allowed to go and presents on Dec. 24. Christmas celebrated tions or bows, as Canadians have. look at the tree, “but they have to “Religious Catholics go to In the evening, “the children sing Christmas carols and light Mass on Dec. 24. They read read- are told that Christkindil, which candles before they are allowed ings out of the Bible telling the on Heiligabend, translates into Christmas Child, a to open the presents.” Christmas story, to remind each character much like an angel, After everyone has opened pre- other what this special day was to Dec. 24 in Germany flies into their house through the sents, “a meal is eaten, which celebrate the birth of Jesus.” By MEAGHAN HUTTON finds the pickle first will receive Staff writer an extra little gift and will be the For many people, Christmas is first to unwrap gifts. celebrated on Christmas Day, “It’s great celebrating Dec. 25, but in Germany, it is Christmas different, but when it celebrated on Heiligabend, or comes to gifts (and) celebrating, Christmas Eve, Dec. 24. we do it on Dec. 24 with my This day is a magical time grandparents,” says Eberle. when adults gather in each “They come over, and we open household to decorate the our stockings and presents, then Christmas tree. Just after dark, a have a huge dinner of goose. bell rings, and the children are Sometimes I wish we could do it allowed to view the lighted tree the Canadian way and celebrate with presents piled beneath. on Dec. 25 and be like everyone Omelette Mondays “German Christmas is very else.” $4.99 any omelette! different from a Canadian Decorations for Christmas Christmas,” says Nicholas trees have changed over the Pancake Tuesdays Eberle, 18, of Toronto. years. In the 1600s, branches All you can eat $2.99 (Buttermilk or Buckwheat) “Children don’t ask Santa Claus were hung with paper roses, 2 for 1 Saturday Weekend Buffet for presents. They write letters cookies and fruit. Now they are (See Coupon Below) to the Christ Child. There is also decorated with beautiful glass another tradition that I don’t fol- ornaments of many shapes and Includes: bacon, sausage, pancakes, scrambled eggs, fresh fruit desserts low. You are supposed to fill sizes, wooden angels, straw and made-to-order omelettes plus much more shoes with straw and carrots and stars, and lebkuchen, a chewy leave them outside the front door spicy cookie baked in different 2 for 1 Saturday Buffet and hope that Saint Nicholas shapes. Purchase one buffet plus 2 beverages and receive passes by. He fills the shoes with Whether Christmas is cele- 2nd buffet of equal or lesser value apples and nuts for the kids that brated in Canada or in another have been good. For the naughty country, most of the traditions FREE! children, they have their shoes are the same. This includes hav- Offer available Saturdays 8am-2pm filled with sticks or coal.” ing a large feast. In Canada, a Offer expires Dec. 20, 2002 The German pickle ornament turkey is enjoyed, but in Valid at St. Catharines location only! is considered to be a special Germany, the dinner consists of Christmas ornament in many roast goose with applesauce and German households. The pickle potato dumplings. Duck and 2 Dunlop Drive (beside Comfort Inn) ornament is always the last to be ham are also popular, says (Take Lake Street exit off QEW) hung on the tree, with the par- Eberle. (905) 641-0640 ents hiding it within the tree. “It’s quite unique to celebrate ® When the children are allowed Christmas this way. My dad is Open 7 days 7am - 10pm to view the Christmas tree, they German and my mom is begin searching for the pickle. Canadian, so we get the best of The children know that whoever both worlds.” Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002, Page 19 Christmas Around the World Life is a gift, remember purpose of Christmas By DONNA DURIC calendar are 12 days ahead of us, p.m. and a vegetarian dinner, dle finger and thumb, and touch Our Christmas Eve Mass actual- Staff Writer so Dec. 25, Christmas, is 12 days which sometimes includes fish, our foreheads, then the middle of ly makes me teary-eyed with awe Wouldn’t you just love to have ahead of our Jan. 7 Christmas. follows. our chests, then the right of our at the beautiful sound of the choir two Christmases? Before you become too envious, The tradition is that those who chests, and finally, the left of our and the haunting sound of our As a Serbian Orthodox, I have I should point out that we don’t go fast for the few weeks before chests. As we touch each part we priest’s voice, telling the story of two Christmases every year. In all out for both holidays. My fam- Christmas must abstain from any must say, In the name of the the birth of our Saviour. addition to the Dec. 25 Christmas, ily members and I usually each get food from an animal. On Christmas Father, the Son, and the Holy This year, if you are Christian I also get one on Jan. 7. Other eth- one big present for each Christmas Day, they can eat a feast, as we do at Spirit, Amen. My father then and religious, try to remember that nic groups in the Eastern Orthodox and a few stocking stuffers. We’re my house, on Jan. 7. breaks off a piece of bread, which the purpose of the holidays is not faith include Russians and not too impressed with the com- Before we begin our meal, we is now blessed, and gives one to to get caught up in the frenzy of Ukrainians. mercialization of the birth of Jesus say the Lord’s Prayer in Serbian, each person at the table. throwing parties and trying to The reason we have Christmas Christ. The only reason we while my father rotates a round I love being part of the impress people with the lavishness on Jan. 7 is that in 1752, the exchange presents is that it’s a loaf of bread, sprinkled with red Orthodox faith, and I cherish how of the gifts you bestow. Rather, try Gregorian calendar was adopted chance to show our appreciation wine, in his hands. There is a special we make the birth of Jesus to remember that life itself is the by the British, and in switching for each other and to get things braided cross atop the bread. Christ. A look inside one of our most amazing gift anyone can from the Julian calendar, which is that we really need. As soon as we recite the entire churches immediately conveys give. This is the gift Christ left the one the Orthodox still use, the Other than Easter, Christmas is prayer, we must cross ourselves. In how our religion reveres the behind when He was executed, date went immediately from Sept. the biggest event of the year for the Trinity tradition, crossing our- Father and the Son. The ceiling and for this, we should be eternal- 2 to Sept. 14, 1752. the Orthodox Church. We hold a selves must be done a certain way. and walls are painted with murals ly grateful that He was born and People who use the Gregorian huge Mass on Christmas Eve at 6 We combine our index finger, mid- depicting Biblical scenes. that He loved us that much. All welcome to free Christmas dinner No one should be alone at Christmas. Want a cool phone? Members of the Faith Tabernacle Church on South Pelham Road are specifically inviting students from Niagara College and Brock University in St. Catharines, and others from Try this subtle hint. throughout the Niagara region, to join them for their sixth annual Community Christmas Dinner. Volunteers, including a chef from Toronto, prepare the dinner. There is no charge. Doors open on Christmas Day at 4 p.m. with dinner at 5 p.m. The Faith Tabernacle Church is at 380 South Pelham Rd., in Welland. Anyone interested in Phones from as low as $24.99† attending is asked to call 905- 753-6811. Transportation can be Getting the phone you want is all about good communication. Why not just ask for a TELUS Mobility phone with 1X capability? It’s the latest in wireless technology. TELUS Mobility phones come with cool stuff like games and 2-Way Text messaging Wishing all capability. You can even get fun downloads Faculty, Staff like ringtones and images*. Available at TELUS Mobility stores, authorized and Students dealers and retailers. To find out more The Best This visit telusmobility.com/student or call 1-888-810-5555. The future is friendly.® Holiday and a Happy New Year

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Phyllis Barnatt Journalism-Print Not all services and features are available in all areas. †For certain phone model and based on a 3-year contract after phone discount or invoice credit on your future TELUS Mobility monthly bill. New activations only. *Service available on a pay per use basis. ©2002 TELE-MOBILE COMPANY. Page 20, Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002 Happy Holidays

Christmas bear in holiday spirits at the Seaway Mall. Festive decoration at Seaway Mall.

Christmas tree decorated by international students.

Marshmallow snowman competition in the counselling office. Display at Santa’s Village at the Seaway Mall.

Photos by Carissa Pertschy and Lori Langley Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002, Page 21 SSStttuuudddeeennnttt AAApppppprrreeeccciiiaaatttiiiooonnn DDDaaayyy Food, fun, free stuff at MMC By JESSICA ARCARO Staff Writer For Student Appreciation Day at the Maid of the Mist Centre (MMC) in Niagara Falls, you couldn’t tell whether the students were being appreciated or were doing the appreciating. All day Nov. 28 and the next morning the centre went all out. From the first step into the main entrance, there was no way to avoid the celebrations. A big sign shouting “Thank you Students!” hung from the entrance of the main hallway. Music blasted above the murmur of pampered students. A table for the Snow Bash ballots, door prizes like the stu- dent survival package, donated by staff and local businesses, sat underneath the welcome sign. Staff members greeted stu- dents, handing them a set of tickets for the penny sale and encouraging them to try the refreshments. The penny sale was the next stop in the hall. More than six tables held gift baskets in clear wrapping. Accompanying each basket was a ticket bottle; the students chose which to bet on with their newly acquired tickets. Chenéy Warris, 19, of the Chef Training program, said she liked that there was “lots of free stuff.” Down the hall from the penny sale were two exhibits provid- ed and manned by the Student Administrative Council. The council handed out blue cotton candy by the bag full and held a draw for two DVD players. The money raised from the draw will be going to the MMC’s Wish Tree for children of Women’s Place, a woman’s shelter in St. Catharines. Two tables forming an L-shape held loads of creations by the students of the MMC Culinary Institute. Creations included ice cream dishes with banana sauce, Clockwise from above: the welcome crepes topped with shred- sign at the front entrance at the Maid of ded orange peel and tarts filled with cheese and the Mist Centre (MMC); from left, from mushrooms. the Continuing Education department, “It’s all about the Margaret Rainville, Lindsay Walker, sweets,” said Neil Wesley, 20, of Niagara Lucy Stoop, Val Farron and Debbi Falls, a second-year MacKinnon; Mike Tomlinson fills in a Tourism (Co-op) pro- DVD draw ballot sold by MMC Student gram student, who wasn’t at school that day for Administrative Coucil (SAC) President classes but rather for the Christina Sarkis while Arianne celebrations. Quenneville, SAC student representative, hands out cotton candy; At one end of the tables were a Christy Poland fills out a ballot at the Welland bookstore; first-year plate of tangerines and a basket of orange-coloured condoms. Police Foundations program students Adam Bishop, Nathanial The Hotel and Restaurant Devos, Grant Grice and Hans Engelberg enjoy free snowcones in Management (Co-op) program front of the Secord room at the Welland campus. provided and maintained cof- fee, tea and Freezies next to the Photos by Jessica Arcaro and Ashleigh Vink food tables. As part of the celebration, staff taped paper snowmen to the bottom of chairs in the classroom. Prizes were given to anyone who found a snowman. A third way to win a prize was found in the parking lot. Staff randomly chose a space, and the owner of the car parked in the space won a prize. The day had been extended for the second-year students of the Tourism program who have Thursdays off.

Pagination by Jessica Arcaro Page 22, Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002 Hanukkah Eight nights of Hanukkah celebration

By ROBYNE SIMPSON After years of fighting, the Jews observant as possible,” said usually one substantial gift over Walsh said, “I used to play with and LINDSEY LEAMEN defeated the Greeks. To celebrate, Lauren Walsh, 18, of Montreal. the course of the eight days. We the dreidle but I just spun it for Staff Writers the Jews wanted to light the The Dawson College student make it a time of giving needed fun because I never understood Put on your yarmulke, here menorah, but only found enough says her favourite part of the items so that we’re still giving a how to play the real game by gam- comes Hanukkah. oil to light it for one day. Hanukkah season is getting a pre- gift, but it’s not like a birthday bling with it. My mother is It’s so much fun-akkah to cele- Miraculously, the oil lasted for sent every night for the eight ‘here’s something you don’t need’ obsessed with dreidles, and we brate Hanukkah. eight days, giving them enough nights they light the menorah. gift.” have a ton of them at home in Hanukkah is the Festival of time to obtain more oil. “Every family does it different- Although neither Walsh nor bags. This year she bought one in Lights, Now Jewish people remember ly, like some get one present for Schachter celebrate Hanukkah by sterling silver, which is complete- Instead of one day of presents, we the miracle by lighting the meno- all eight days or none at all.” attending synagogue, the option is ly unnecessary!” have eight craaaaazy nights. rah for eight nights. They also eat Erin Schachter, 18, of Toronto, there. Hanukkah is always celebrated Adam Sandler’s famous foods fried in oil to remember, is a student at Earl Haig “I enjoy the holiday season starting on the 25th day of the Hanukkah Song made many peo- such as latkes (potato) and jelly Secondary School, where she because it is bright and happy. We month Kislev. The Jewish calen- ple more aware of how Jewish donuts. majors in dance. are celebrating rather than praying dar has 28 to 29 days to a month. people celebrate the holidays. In Hebrew, Hanukkah means She says her family is very “tra- and fasting,” said Walsh. Every four years, the calendar The celebration of Hanukkah “dedication.” ditional,” and in addition to light- Asked whether they actually adds a month, pushing the festival started in 168 BC when Greek sol- “My family is not religious, but ing the menorah, her family sings play with dreidles, Schachter said, up in the secular calendar. diers took over the Jewish holy when it comes time for certain a couple of songs and exchanges “I do not play with a dreidle usu- This year, the eight-day festi- temple and ordered them to bow holidays like Hanukkah, Passover, little gifts. ally unless I am given one (which val falls earlier than normal to an idol and eat the flesh of a Yom Kippur and other high holi- “My mother gives my sister and is likely), and happen to be pro- because the lunar calendar started pig, both acts forbidden to Jews. days, we try our best to be as I a tiny something each night and crastinating (also likely).” on Nov. 29. Hanukkah celebrates ancient miracle with lights

By KATE DESROCHES remaining with only enough oil to with cotton wicks and must be lit two end candles. Staff Writer light for one day. using pure olive oil. The candles Chanuka is a reflection of going Chanuka, also known as The miracle happens here. The oil must not flicker, nor should they from darkness to light and from Hanukkah, is the eight-day Jewish in the jar burned for eight days and a be standing too close to each other despair to hope. festival celebrated in the same sea- year later this holiday was designat- so that their flames intermingle. This Jewish tradition has gath- son as the popular Christian holi- ed to praise and thanksgiving. The Menorah should be pretty ered some popularity in the media day — Christmas. During the Second Temple peri- and made of glass or metal. The in the last few years with two The Festival of Lights is the cel- od, Greek kings gave harsh candles in the Menorah must be songs and an animated movie by ebration of a miracle and in that decrees outlawing Chanuka and standing side by side in a straight Adam Sandler and a little book time no fasting is permitted. many other Jewish traditions. line with none higher or lower called Murray Saves Christmas, When the Greeks entered the Once again the Maccabees recap- than the other. written by Mike Reiss, producer of Temple they destroyed all of the tured Jerusalem and rededicated One candle is lit a night for eight The Simpson’s. oils used for lighting the candles. the Holy Temple. consecutive nights. They are lit For more information about Once they were defeated the To light the Menorah a number from left to right but every other Chanuka/Hanukkah visit Kohen Gadol (High Priest) of rules must be followed. All of night they are added from right to http://www.chanuka.com or searched and found one jar the candles must be made of wax left. The first two nights sees the http://www.jhom.com.

Dreidle, dreidle, dreidle … • Hanukkah began Friday, Nov. 29. Fast • Hanukkah is known as the Festival of Lights. • In Hebrew, Hanukkah means “dedication.” I have a little dreidle The symbols on the dreidle mean: Hanukkah • The Hanukkah candelabra is called the Menorah. I made it out of clay • The Jewish calender has 28 or 29 days to a month. And when it’s dry and ready Great Miracle Then dreidle I shall play. Happened Here Facts: • Every four years the Jewish calender adds a month. Chorus: O Dreidle, dreidle ... I made it out of clay And when it’s dry and ready Then dreidle I shall play. It has a lovely body With legs so short and thin Wishing you and your And when it is all tired It drops and then I win. Chorus: O Dreidle, dreidle ... families Peace, Joy & My dreidle’s always playful It loves to dance and spin 5jx Åt~x t Ä|ä|Çz uç ã{tà ãx zxàN ãx A happy game of dreidle Happiness during the Come play now, let’s begin. Åt~x t Ä|yx uç ã{tà ãx z|äxA Chorus: O Dreidle, dreidle ... Holiday Season @@ j|ÇáàÉÇ V{âÜv{|ÄÄ fxtáÉÇ:á ZÜxxà|Çzá yÜÉÅ à{x From the Staff of YtvâÄàç tÇw fàtyy Éy à{x câuÄ|v exÄtà|ÉÇá the Registrar’s ;cÉáà@zÜtwâtàx< ÑÜÉzÜtÅA Office Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002, Page 23 Volunteers improve life quality of self, others By LINDSEY LEAMEN scaping, repairing a porch and Staff Writer building a shed. Working to enhance the lives of Julie Densham, a Special Events others will bring positive change in Management (Post-graduate) pro- your life and offer you a different gram student and co-ordinator of perspective on priorities. the project, says they are looking for College students have a wide vari- volunteers who will “get down and ety of options available to get them get dirty.” involved AND gain knowledge and Volunteers will be provided with experience. They can also learn more breakfast, lunch, a post-event party about themselves and their potential. and dinner. They can expect the day Many Hands is an organization to go from about 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. that helps people who otherwise Students in the Recreation and couldn’t afford to renovate. Because Leisure Services program may be it’s local, it’s easy for students to particularly interested in volunteer- become involved. ing, as well as any other programs’ Many Hands is an organization students that require volunteer hours, that seeks to develop community although anyone is welcome. co-operation and pride through vol- “The goal is to make two resi- unteer-driven projects aimed at dences nice enough that anyone assisting non-profit organizations in would be proud to live there,” says the Niagara region. Densham. Last April 13, students from “I have every confidence that the Niagara College and other commu- project will be successful.” nity volunteers participated in a one- Another organization that’s easy to John Hurd (right) plays guitar and sings with 10-year-old Aman Chand, the youngest son of the fam- day project to paint, renovate, add join is Habitat for Humanity ily the house was built for. Aman had been eagerly anticipating the Habitat volunteers’ arrival so he shelving units and fix the yard for a International (HFHI), a non-profit, would finally have a house for his family instead of living with his uncle’s already large family. At the house in Niagara Falls for mentally non-denominational Christian hous- uncle’s house, the Chand family of six all shared one bedroom. and physically disabled individuals. ing organization. Although it rained all day, the volun- HFHI works globally, yet it also Photo by Lindsey Leamen teers worked diligently for many builds locally and is always looking was just totally unexpected and it heavy emphasis on family and everyone to visit a Third World hours before having to stop because for volunteers. was fun.” friendships.” country at least once, to gain an of safety concerns with the rain and In December 2001, Mary As for personal growth, Hurd Jan Callies, 34, of Arlington, Va., understanding of how other parts of electrical equipment. Hamilton, 40, a HFHI volunteer for says, “I saw how a lot of what I says, “l think my most unexpected the world are living, and how spoiled At that time, standing in the pour- 16 years, was one of the leaders on thought my limits were was just and memorable experience was the Americans can be.” ing rain, and thoroughly drenched, a trip to Fiji. my imagination. It changed the day the first half of the roof went on. If you are interested in volunteer- Sean McGrillen, 26, of the Public “No skills are required for a trip way I think about what is possible Mr. Chand, the father, began to ing with the 2003 Many Hands pro- Relations (Post-graduate) program, like this. Global village trips are and what isn’t.” weep. Then the mother was misty- ject, telephone Sandra Misener, said, “This is truly amazing what can much more intense and focus on Shawna Liff, 22, of East eyed, and, of course, I couldn’t help volunteer co-ordinator at 905-735- be done. It’s a testament to the dedi- bonding with team members and Montepelier, Vt., says, “I am not as but join them. It was moving.” 2211, ext. 6404. cation of our volunteers.” villagers than in local builds,” says guarded. Life is too short to only be Nora Mulholland, 48, of Denver, For further information log on to This one-day, labour-intensive Hamilton. half yourself.” Colo., says, “It was reassuring to be Habitat for Humanity at event is planned and implemented by She says she loves the trips Christina Bridger, 27, of surrounded by so many younger kids http://www.habitat.org or the students and volunteers. because “I am reminded that it is McHenry, Ill., says she found that “in that were already giving back to the Many Hands Project at This year’s choice for the Many relationships, not things, status or general, the people have prioritized world. It gives me faith in the human http://www.niagarac.on.ca/peo- Hands project is Bethlehem Place in activities that bring real joy and sat- their life to have a balance. There is a race. I think it should be required for ple/manyhand/manyhand.htm. St. Catharines. It’s an organization isfaction in life.” that provides support, services, and John Hurd, 26, of Seattle, Wash., temporary housing to victims of says his favourite part of the trip was abuse, recovering addictions, pover- the Fara, a New Year’s Day tradition ty and other situations. of the Rotuman culture. The one-day work blitz will be “Everything about that was Saturday, April 5, 2003, at 58 cool. Riding on the party bus, the Welland Ave., in St. Catharines. The way you picked partners for a renovations will include painting, dance, getting doused with talcum turning a bathroom into a kitch- powder and perfume, dancing enette, replacing a retaining wall, with the locals even though I expanding the playground, land- sucked at doing their dance - it Season’s Greetings and Best Wishes for the New Year

Interdisciplinary Studies and Access Division

• Literacy and Basic Skills • Career and College Opportunities • General Education • Humanities and Social Sciences • General Arts and Science • Pre-Health Science

Christina Bridger mixs cement to hold the cinder blocks together. Once it is mixed it must be used as soon as possible because the 40 degree heat makes it harden quickly. Photo by Lindsey Leamen Page 24, Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002 Christmas in Canada away from home

Sridhor Chintana Asma Kamsali, Chitsaeny, Saiwer, of India, from 22, is a has been Thailand, has second-year enrolled in the been enrolled in student of the post-graduate the English as a Early program, Second Childhood Computer Language pro- Education pro- Network gram for the past gram. Saiwer Operations, for six-months. The said although the past three 27-year-old said she was born months. The Christmas is not in Canada her 27-year-old celebrated in parents are said since her SRIDHOR KAMSALI Thailand but she CHINTANA CHITSAENY from Pakistan ASMA SAIWER family does not celebrate Christmas in is looking forward to celebrating and they do not celebrate Christmas her home country she is looking for- Christmas in Canada this year. She but celebrate another holiday called ward to celebrating the holiday in added that she is not returning home Eid, a festival of prayer, fasting and Canada this year. during the holidays. celebration.

Enrig Carlos Michiyo Schirru, Toledo Iwamori, of Italy, Martinez, of Kyoto, has been of Mexico, has Japan, has been enrolled in the been an English an English as a English as a as a Second Second Second Language stu- Language stu- Language pro- dent, for the dent at the col- gram for the past four lege for the past past four months. three months. months. The Martinez said The 29-year-old 19-year-old he is going said his family said his family home for does celebrate celebrates a ENRIG SCHIRRU Christmas CARLOS TOLEDO MARTINEZ Christmas by MICHIYO IWAMORI traditional Catholic Christmas. where it is very similar to the eating Christmas cake on Dec. 24. Schirru said he is looking forward to Canadian tradition of gathering with Iwamori said he looking forward to returning home soon to celebrate family and having turkey with all the celebrating Christmas in Canada this Christmas with his family. trimmings and with Mexican food. year.

Emily Masahiko Mariam Zhou, of Hayano, Miah, China, of Japan, 19, is a has been is a first-year first-year stu- enrolled in the English as a dent enrolled English as a Second in the Second Language stu- Computer Language pro- dent. Hayano Programmer gram for the said Christmas program. Miah past five in his home said she was months. The country is simi- born in 19-year-old lar to Christmas Canada but her said her family in Canada, with parents are does not cele- EMILY ZHOU eating cake, MASAHIKO HAYANO from Pakistan. MARIAM MIAH brate Christmas and since she is not drinking and gathering with family for Instead of celebrating Christmas they going home this year she is very excit- a special meal. The 20-year-old said celebrate a different holiday called ed about celebrating her first he may spend Christmas in Canada Eid, a festival of prayer, fasting and Christmas in Canada. this year. celebration.

By Sara Campbell and Marian Orleans Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002, Page 25 Santa Claus: a lie with a good cause By DANA BLACKLOCK world, but at one point it all it for them. I explained why I did- understand and accept it. he says. “It adds to the aura of Staff Writer comes tumbling down, like a n’t want them to believe in it, and “It depends how they’re Christmas. I believed in Santa Here comes Santa Claus, here snowman in the sun. It’s time to they understood. raised,” says Linda Firth, 37, a until I was 22 years old.” comes Santa Claus ... just kid- tell them the truth. “I feel that now, instead of hav- nighttime cashier at the Niagara Some parents don’t have to bear ding, it’s your parents. Some people believe it is cruel ing them look forward to receiv- College Welland Campus cafete- the responsibility of telling their Many parents will go to great to lie to their children about ing a bunch of gifts at Christmas, ria. “All families are different. I children the truth about Santa lengths to keep their children’s Santa Claus, and some feel that it they look more forward to being told my daughter at the age of six. Claus because the youngsters fig- belief in Santa Claus. The feeling is all right. around family and it’s less materi- (It’s best) when they can compre- ure it out on their own, either by of going to bed Christmas Eve “I told my firstborn child the alistic that way.” hend. When they are old enough being told by their friends at and trying as hard as possible to truth about Santa when she was Santa Claus does bring a lot of to ask, they are old enough to school or just by putting two and get some shut-eye is a great and eight years old, and she was materialism into Christmas with know.” two together. exciting feeling for many young crushed,” says Diane Reese, 38, his portrayal of endless gift-giv- Frank Ardizzone, 25, in the B.G. Cyr, 23, an office adminis- kids. Nothing could beat waking of Port Colborne. “I knew I could- ing. However, most people still Educational Assistant — Special trator for the Admissions Office, up as the sun starts to rise, racing n’t do that again. It was too hard. feel that the belief in Santa Needs Support program at says he figured it out. to your parents’ bed, ecstatically She asked me why I had lied to Claus as a child is a very impor- Niagara College, agrees that it “I figured it out by recognizing trying to get them to walk you to her for so long, and I felt horrible. tant part of childhood. Many isn’t wrong to lie to children the writing on the tags. It was my your long-awaited destination: the “I explained the whole concept think it’s all right to have chil- about Santa. mom’s writing. I confronted her. gift-flooded Christmas tree. of Santa Claus to the rest of my dren believe and be told the truth “It’s like telling them fish sticks Then the next year she got my This feeling occurs once a children, that most children their about the bearded joyful man are chicken to get them to eat it. dad to write out the tags, but it year for children all over the age believed in it, and not to spoil once they are old enough to You gotta do what you gotta do,” didn’t work.” Christmas movies a must during holidays: classic or new By BRENDAN CAMPBELL bring back the Christmas spirit, have little moviegoers around for for a film. Tim Allen starred in trying to keep his end of the bar- Staff Writer whether you’re with your family the holidays, you should still The Santa Clause, which puts him gain in Jingle All The Way. Christmas is the time for giving, or not. make the trip to Whoville.” in a position where he’s an ordi- Don Stotter, of Entertainment receiving, celebrating the birth of First, there’s the classic that There’s also a movie that most nary guy who’s living an ordinary Time Out, says the movie is “the Christ and popping a whole you’ll always be able to find on have probably seen in their life until he finds Santa in a rather best holiday family film in bunch of popcorn before plop- your television, A Miracle on homes, even if it wasn’t on the tragic position and has to take years.” ping yourself down in front of the 34th Street. This is a movie that screen, a movie that depicts how over the big man’s job. The newest Christmas movie to television for a movie marathon. Frederic and Mary Ann Brussat, almost every family acts at some John J. Puccio, of www.dvd- hit theatres is 8 Crazy Nights, Movies have always been a big of Spirituality and Health, say point and doesn’t hold back. This town.com, says that this is “the starring Adam Sandler and show- part of Christmas. They help “pays tribute to Santa Claus, a movie, A Christmas Story, has closest thing we’ve had in the last casing his talents once more, this bring out the holiday spirit in figure who stands for the grace, become a classic among movie 20 years to a genuine Christmas time in cartoon form. While this ways that sometimes even putting mystery and wonder available watchers this time of year. classic.” The sequel to the film is may not be the traditional family lights on a tree can’t. They’re a during the Christmas season.” “There’s a reason they run this out now. Christmas film, Angel Cohn, of chance to go to the theatre or to Then there’s the well-known for 24 hours every December — Not regularly seen in comedies, TV Guide’s Movie Guide, says sit down in front of the television cartoon classic that only Jim it really is that good, maybe the let alone Christmas movies, is that it’s “an offbeat, sometimes with the family and enjoy your- Carrey could bring to life, The best Christmas movie ever,” Arnold Schwarzenegger. A few gross and surprisingly appealing selves for a couple of hours. Grinch. While it doesn’t stick says Luke Y. Thompson, of New years ago he signed on to star as a animated film about the true The question is, with all the directly to the cartoon plot, sim- Times. father who has promised to get meaning of the holidays.” Christmas movies available,what ply because they needed to make Christmas usually comes out his son the most popular toy of If none of these movies appeal are some guaranteed bets for fam- it a full-length feature, it still has best in comedic form and one of the year. Like most parents who to your movie tastes, Die Hard ily fun? Here are a few that are the same overall feel according to the top comedians around took it have to deal with that dilemma on happens around Christmas right? enjoyable any time of the year to Paul Clinton of CNN. “If you upon himself to don the red suit a yearly basis, he has problems I guess that one could work too.

Happy Holidays from the Niagara let’s join in! College

John Frame sings with Peggy Farquharson during Santa’s visit with daycare children at the Welland campus on Foundation Tuesday. Both are facilities management staff. Photo by Amy Contois Best wishes for The Niagara College 2003 Advertising Department would like to thank all of our Sylvia, Kelly, advertisers for their Helena and Jamie support, and wish everyone a Merry Christmas Linda, Ian & Kate Page 26, Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002 Celebrating New Year’s, not Christmas By LORI LANGLEY relationship. The envelope itself has traditional signifi- Staff Writer cance in China. For many people around the world, Dec. 25 is just Wang says her parents give her the most money, but another day. “my boyfriend better give me a lot too.” Emi Rokugawa, of Japan, and Alice Wang, of Taiwan, Wang says people decorate by writing on a red piece are international students at Niagara College who don’t of paper, and hanging it up on the house for others to celebrate Christmas in their countries. see. Rokugawa and Wang will be staying in Canada until Rokugawa says people decorate in Japan by putting Dec. 28 this year to observe Christmas Day Canadian bamboo and pine branches outside their door. If they live style before going home. in an apartment, she says, they put Rokugawa, 20, says in Japan, New Year’s Day is them on the door. New Year’s Day is the big day. Rokugawa and Wang say there are She says people exchange gifts a chance to have a other special days in their countries and have a big meal, and the that are significant, just as Christmas whole family gets together. family gathering and is in North America. “My grandmother cooks our Rokugawa says the most celebrat- meal for us and it’s good,” says a day off work. ed days in Japan are former emper- Rokugawa. ors’ birthdays. The big meal they have for New Year’s Day in Japan In August, Japanese people celebrate Obon, which is consists of many different types of food, she says. one of their most traditional holidays. Families invite the New Year’s Day is a chance to have a family gathering spirits of their deceased relatives into their homes so the and a day off work. She says the way people celebrate in family can send the spirits to the other side, says Japan is different for every family, says Rokugawa. Rokugawa. Wang, 27, says the big holiday in Taiwan is the She says, “It means we just remember them and Chinese New Year, which is on Feb. 1. respect them.” She says there is a big meal and “something like a Christmas cake for dessert, but it’s not a cake.” Pictured at the right is a traditional decoration that is The Chinese New Year is also a chance for families to put out in front of the entrance to protect the house get together. She says people exchange red envelopes from bad things. The size of the decoration depends containing money instead of exchanging gifts. The on the wealth of the family. amount of money given depends on the closeness of the Submitted photo Dental Hygienist teacher talks about oral health in Germany By BRENDAN CAMPBELL one-hour presentation in the with different bits of research, guage, as when you come to the best method. Staff Writer morning, but also has a 2 1/2 key points all written in German, Canada you become Canadian. “I was pulled over and I had to A Niagara professor has a den- seminar in the afternoon about and pictures of the oral condi- And as I child I interpreted that go to traffic school because I was tist appointment in Germany. the effects of lifestyles on oral tions they’re discussing. to mean don’t admit you’re of concentrating on my German Last January, Dental Hygienist health. “The style of speaking is very German descent. It was post-war instead of my speedometer.” professor Ursula Pelissero, 52, “Obviously, I have to do different (here) than in Germany. so I guess that would be natural. It’s all about to pay off as she found herself invited to speak in more reading this time, which In Germany it’s very rigid ... it’s So, now I’m attempting to speak just left on Tuesday and won’t Germany at the Bavarian Dental is not my style cause I tend to a very dry lecture and everybody in German at a professional return for a week. Although she Convention in Munich, and only be quite animated when I talk. I sits through it and listens. So to level, which is a major chal- says she isn’t nervous and feels a few months later, in April, she tend to bounce around the class have somebody who provides a lenge, so I’ve been working on it confident in herself to come out was invited back. She’ll be so this will cramp my style little more ‘edutainment,’ a com- for a while to try and practice on top once more, she still sees speaking there again this week. somewhat.” bination of education and enter- saying new things.” everything she’s done as a chal- “I guess they liked what they In preparation for the entire tainment, is totally new to After Pelissero wrote out her lenge. heard. I was invited back,” she says. presentation that will take place them.” entire presentation in English, “It’s going to be a challenge The last time she was there she over the day, Pelissero has pre- Pelissero was born in her mother wrote it out for her in because it’s all in German. I’ve presented a one-hour piece about pared a slide show that will play Germany, but moved to Canada German. Her mother then record- had to work the last nine months the process of care involved in as she speaks about the research. when she was five, though she ed herself saying it onto a tape. to try and get this all together. I dental hygiene. This time, This was one of the “harder” didn’t really stick with her her- Pelissero listens to the tape when could have had a baby in the Pelissero finds her role in the tasks she had to deal with as she itage as she grew up. she’s driving in her car, though time it took to do this whole convention extended as she has a ended up filling over 600 slides “I didn’t really keep the lan- that didn’t always turn out to be thing.”

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Nine editions of the Niagara News will be Healthy & Successful published until April 2003. New Year! The publication dates are Jan. 17. Jan. 24, Jan. 31, Feb. 7, Feb. 14, March 14, March 21, April 4, April 17. Ventures Anyone interested in Employment & Training Services advertising, contact Linda Camus at (905) 735-2211, ext. 7748, or [email protected] Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002, Page 27 Christmas celebrated without Santa By CARISSA PERTSCHY “You had to say a poem or a prayer now. Presents were oranges, nuts Eve,” says Alexander. time),” says Erika. “We also made Staff Writer before you could get your goodies, and candy, if you were good.” “The food is altogether different walnusskuchen (a walnut cake) Imagine a Christmas with no such as candy or nuts. If you were “When everyone got home from for a German Christmas,” says and streusselkuchen (a coffee Santa Claus. bad you had to say two poems or church, the kids went to bed right Erika. “The meal was always cake).” Christmas is a popular tradition prayers or else you would get coal after eating rice pudding with Christmas goose, like turkey in “They were all my favourite worldwide. It is a powerful and old in your shoe,” says Erika. raisins in it. That was a big deal,” Canada. There was always a spe- because you didn’t get them very tradition. In Germany, Christmas On Adam and Eve’s day, says Erika. “Then the parents cial soup made out of the wings, often. Any cake was always very starts with the beginning of would decorate the tree, and pre- the neck and the small parts of the good,” she says. Advent or Aufkommen. ‘On Christmas sents you were to receive were put goose.” “On Jan. 6, a Catholic priest “Four Sundays before under it.” Cookies and cakes are special would bless everyone’s house and Christmas, the first of four candles Eve, it wasn’t “The Christmas tree was deco- treats in Germany. “There were the occupants in it. The priest used is lit on a wreath. Every Sunday an rated with homemade decorations pfefferneuse cookies, a cinnamon to write on the door The Three extra candle is lit. The final candle Santa Claus who like walnuts wrapped in shiny sugar cookie, and ginger cookies. Wisemen’s names with the year,” is lit Christmas Eve,” says Erika paper, apples, oranges or candy Cakes were also baked. We made says Stefan. “It used to stay there Pertschy, of Crediton, Ont. came; it was canes,” says Stefan. pound cake, fruchtkechen (a fruit all year. It was good luck.” Pertschy says Christmas in “There were no stockings, just cake with apple gooseberry, and Editor’s note: Stefan, Erika and Pshawus, Poland, was not the same Christkindl.’ homemade presents. Everything preservatives from the summer Alexander are Carissa’s relatives. as a Canadian Christmas: “Families was homemade, but it was usually came together, everyone who was – Stefan Pertschy clothes. If you were given a doll, able to come to celebrate the day.” you had to look at it and you “Santa Claus is not so important Christmas Eve, “all the children couldn’t play with it,” says Erika. for Germans, We call him would go wish relatives a Christmas trees are a popular tra- Nikolaus, and children in Froehliche Weihnachten (Merry dition in Germany. “We had real Germany receive presents from Christmas),” says Stefan Pertschy, candles on our Christmas tree. There that tradition on Dec. 6,” says of Crediton, Ont. was no hydro, so candles or lanterns Happy Holidays Alexander Pertschy, 28, of “On Christmas Eve, it wasn’t were used for light,” says Erika. Bavaria, Germany. Santa Claus who came; it was “Catholic people go to from Dec. 6 is a day when all the Christkindl,” he says. Christmas in Weihnachtsmesse, (midnight good children receive presents. Retkovci, Croatia, “was not like Mass) at 10 p.m. on Christmas Canadians forget holiday is celebrated differently By DANA BLACKLOCK baked in the centre of the large things have changed since they Staff Writer circle. The children would eat this started airing the American Growing up in Canada, we are for breakfast with hot chocolate. Christmas shows in Belgium and, We’ll see you in 2003 used to the idea of Christmas This day was not necessarily a as in Canada, it seems as though being on Dec. 25. vacation day from school, but it Christmas is becoming more Canadians are accustomed to would be only if it fell on the focused on gifts. having about two weeks off weekend. “I much prefer the feeling of school, a few days off work and Christmas Day (the 25th) was a being surrounded by family and some vacation time here and there religious holiday with families friends rather than the gifts.” within the last days of December. gathering and eating a lot of good That’s the traditional Canadian foods, but not necessarily turkey Christmas. as in Canada. However, some people fail to “At that time, Christmas was realize that in different countries much more spiritual than what it the holiday is celebrated in other is today here in Canada. ways and on other days. However, when I first came over, Danielle Brown, 52, co-ordina- it (Christmas) was not quite as tor of the Office Administration abundant as it is today with the program at Niagara College, was gifts,” says Brown. born in Frameries, Belgium. She She says it wasn’t hard to start lived there for 14 years and cele- celebrating Christmas Canadian brated Christmas a lot differently style when she moved here. than she does in Canada. However, at the time, her parents “We celebrated St. Nicholas didn’t have the money to go over- Day on Dec. 6. That day, St. board with gifts. Nicholas would visit the children “The first Christmas they and give them presents only if bought us a new outfit and we got they had been good throughout it on Dec. 6 so that we could wear Have a safe and the year,” says Brown. it throughout the holidays.” Have a safe and On that day, Brown says Brown says she doesn’t prefer schools would give all the chil- one way of celebrating Christmas dren a “gougnole,” a sweet dough over the other. bread shaped in three circles, the “I like a combination of both.” largest in the middle and the two Brown says this way of cele- smallest on either side of the large brating Christmas was how it was one. There was a piece of clay done about 40 years ago. Some happyhappy holidayholiday

Thank you! from the staff of We'd like to thank all of the Peer Tutors who worked Continuing Education during the Fall 2002 term. Many of the Learners have been successful in their courses because of the dedication of and the Peer Tutors who helped them. From all of us here at Niagara College, thanks for your Learning Resources time and commitment to your fellow students. Peer Services Page 28, Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002

“What are you asking Santa Claus for Christmas? ”

Street Talk Ashley, 5 “Barbie van, Barbie, Barbie clothes, Barbie with long hair.” By ROBYNE SIMPSON and ELYSE DEBRUYN Staff Writers

Trinity Richards, 2, Welland “Monsters Inc., Spiderman, Barbies. At the Nicole Carnegie, 20, parade Santa gave me a candy cane.” Recreation and Leisure Services program, second-year Brampton, Ont. “I would like a new car, with a perfect man who has a nice car with lots of money to pay my tuition and perfect abs and a perfect ass.”

Lynn Perry, 23, Dental Assistant program, first-year London, Ont. “Cell phone for car, shoes, Damyen, 5 clothes, pre-paid trip around “Cat, T-rex, dinosaurs, Triceratops the world, all expenses with a long neck that eats plants. Movie paid.” about dinosaurs.” (Left)

Meagan Mitchell, 18, St John Ambulance Saint-Jean Dental Assistant program, first-year, ST. JOHN AMBULANCE - WELLAND Stratford, Ont. “I would like my hair dyed STANDARD FIRST AID and and streaked, new clothes, the usual.” BASIC RESCURER “C” CPR (Right) GET YOUR REQUIREMENTS FOR COLLEGE GRADUATION AND WORK PLACEMENT

DECEMBER 16, 17, 18 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM or FEBRUARY 24, 25, 26 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM at 70 Elmwood Ave, Welland Have a Healthy $95.00 (DISCOUNT FEE FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS) (includes 2 books, supplies, cetification) FA Certification - 3 years, CPR Certification - 1 year Holiday! call 735-6431 to pre-register and pre-pay From all of us at the (CASH, DEBIT, VISA, MASTERCARD) Get direct access to over 11,000 students at Health Centre Niagara College and Brock University Advertise in the official guidebook of:

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For more information contact Linda Camus, Advertising Manager (905) 735-2211 ext. 7748 Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002, Page 29 Lost items found in college’s Security Office By SHARI HADGRAFT and calculators. The lost and found has “been here for were brought in and a brief description of Staff Writer The lost items range from student years and years” and no one really knows what the item looks like. Have you lost something? cards, books, clothing, wallets, drivers’ it’s there, she said. After a period of time, September to It may be in the Security Offices at licenses, jewelry, eyeglasses, just about Students can get information about the December for example, unclaimed lost each of the college’s three campuses. everything, said Hansen. lost and found by looking in their student clothing in the Security Office is turned Kim Hansen, 45, of Port Colborne, has planner, Hansen said, so there is informa- over to the Student Administrative been a security officer at the Welland ‘The lost and found has tion about it and where to go to recover Council office at the After Hours build- campus for the past year and a half. lost items. ing. She said there are about 150 items in been here for years and A lot of students find out about the lost Hansen said she was not sure where the the Welland office’s lost and found but and found through word of mouth from student cards and drivers’ licences go not many people are coming to claim the years and no one really their friends and peers, Hansen said. after a lengthy time because her boss items. At the Maid of the Mist (MMC) “I don’t think here in the school you takes care of those items. campus, only six items are on hand since knows it’s there.’ can go about it any other way besides The Security Office is across from the the rest were recently turned over to the paper,” she said, when asked what the Learning Resource Centre at the Welland Student Administrative Council. About – Kim Hansen college could do to make the lost and campus, ext. 6666, at the main entrances 20 items have been handed in at the There are about 50 student cards alone found area better known. at the Glendale campus, ext. 4444 and Glendale campus in Niagara-on-the- in the lost and found that students should A lost and found book is kept at the MMC, ext. 3616. Lake. The items include cell telephones come to claim, Hansen said. Security Office to record when the items Gaining weight common among first-year students By DANA BLACKLOCK not even realize that the simplest my clothes didn’t fit anymore and I home. she’s been eating better. Staff Writer things do help. had no energy,” says Brown. “All She felt very discouraged. That’s Examples of healthful foods Move into residence. Gather the girls on my floor were freaking when her mother helped her find a Brown welcomed into her eating textbooks. Start school. Gain out about the same thing.” smart and healthful way to lose the habits are chicken, vegetables, weight. ‘It was probably a Brown says she and her friends pounds. Her mother started cook- sugar-free drinks and fish. She says This may sound familiar to some tried to change their eating habits ing nutritious meals for her. Brown it also helps “if you can cut down students, mostly females. little after a month but it was hard since they didn’t says she ate “tons of vegetables on carbohydrates and sugar.” It’s said it’s common to gain have much money for groceries. It and drank tons of water” to get into “I’ve been eating this way for weight throughout the first year of when I started to was more convenient and cheap to the “groove of a healthy eating about a year now, and it makes me college or university. A lot of fresh- run down to the cafeteria and grab habit.” feel like I have a lot more energy men are in denial. They claim it notice that my a slice of pizza, fries and other junk “The fact is, losing weight takes and more control over my weight will not happen to them. food. effort no matter what, even if you and health,” says Brown. However, when Christmas clothes didn’t fit “At first, I thought about starv- do choose to become anorexic and The key isn’t to move back break begins, they may go home ing myself but I knew that it would do it in an unhealthy manner. But home or spend an incredible a clothing size or two bigger. The anymore and I had only make me feel worse. I didn’t at the end of the day if you’re amount of money on groceries. thought depresses many females no energy.’ think I had that much willpower going to put all the effort into it, The key is to keep track of what and leaves them wondering what anyway. That’s when I started you might as well do it the healthy you eat and how much of it. If you to do about it. Some may be too – Sarah Brown looking into healthy ways of losing way,” says Brown. “I learned how are really concerned, see a doctor. embarrassed to ask anyone for weight.” to eat better for the rest of my life, Starving or bingeing your food will advice or help and may try to Brown says she had lost the not only to lose weight for the time not help you in any way. deal with it themselves. This Sarah Brown, 19, of Wainfleet, motivation to get up in the morning being. Keeping track of what I eat “Plus,” says Brown, “veggies could lead to eating disorders moved to attend Ryerson and attend classes since she felt so during the day helps a lot.” are actually good once you get such as anorexia or bulimia if Polytechnic University in Toronto sluggish. She says she believes Brown has lost 65 pounds since used to them.” they are eager enough to lose a in the fall of 2001. She was living most of it had to do with the stress lot of weight quickly. in residence. and depression caused by her There are better and healthier “It was probably a little after a weight gain. It was becoming a ways to lose weight, and some may month when I started to notice that health problem, so she moved back

Ancillary Services Wishes you a Very Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year! From the Staff of Parking Administration Child Care Centre Print Centre Campus Store Page 30, Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002 United Way falls a little short of its goal By MEAGHAN HUTTON chance to show their creative talents. The campaign has raised $680,662 of its campaign is over, there are still compa- Staff Writer First place went to the Counselling $1.1-million goal, with fundraising in nies finishing their fundraising. We almost made it, thanks to the best department at the Glendale campus, whose Welland, Pelham, Port Colborne and Donations will still be collected and efforts from all contributors. theme was The Witches of Westwick. They Wainfleet. added to the total until the end of This year’s United Way campaign at were awarded with the Halloween “The result of this year’s campaign, February. The money that comes in after Niagara College raised $24,177, with 150 Challenge trophy and a fruit basket. whatever the result may be, represents a March will be added to the 2003 cam- contributors, but less than last year’s total Second place went victory for our com- paign. The United Way agency is always of $26,309 and about 170 contributors. to the Payroll munity,” says Kevin accepting donations and volunteers. Betty Ann Chandler, professor of English department at the Miller, campaign Many Welland businesses are still partic- in the International department and chair of Welland campus, vice-chair for United ipating in Dress Down Fridays, during the United Way campaign at the college, whose theme was Way of South which employes may wear casual business says she is “very” disappointed in the cam- Spiders. They were Niagara. attire and pay a loonie paign and the lack of money raised. “There awarded with a Although the cam- Welland Golf Club held the Ladies Night just wasn’t the support we needed and cheese and cracker paign may fall short Out on Nov. 21, which raised $2,400 with because of that, the goal wasn’t met.” tray. Third place of the $1.1-million 85 people attending. The Welland Heritage The departments contributing more than went to the goal, Sharon Svob, Council’s barbecue added an extra $200. expected included the International depart- International campaign and mar- The campaign will end tonight with ment, the Learning Resource Centre, department, whose keting director at Skate with the Spirit for United Way from Admissions and the Registrar’s depart- theme was a United Way of South 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Main Arena in Welland. ment, all at the Welland campus. Graveyard. They Niagara, says it will Radio station Spirit 91.7 and the City of The college’s United Way campaign were awarded with reach more than last Welland sponsor this event. A donation to began on Oct. 1, with a Kickoff Breakfast a pizza. All the year’s goal of United Way is the admission. in the Student Gathering Centre at the winners were $1,000,001. “The success of this campaign will allow Welland campus. This was where the cam- awarded on their Jill Cappa, execu- the United Way to provide needed increas- paign committee announced its 2002 goal Halloween creativi- tive director of the es to some agency programs, maintain of $28,000. ty and Halloween United Way of South funding for others, and allow the alloca- Before the campaign was launched, the themes, says Niagara, says she is tions committee to look at new appli- college community had already begun rais- Chandler. “very optimistic” cants,” says Svob. ing money. “A lot of work about reaching more “Those who have contributed have At the end of September the college took went into the deco- Sharon Svob (left), marketing director, than $1 million. ensured that the programs and services our part in the popular Jail & Bail by sending rating of all the and Jill Cappa, executive director, “I believe this community needs will continue to be avail- Mal Woodhouse, the college’s director of departments, and stand in front of the United Way ther- year’s campaign was able. This may be at a lower level than we facilities management services, to a day in many thanks go out mometer. a real success. Even would have wished. Gifts of time and jail at the Welland Seaway Mall. The col- to everyone who Photo by Meaghan Hutton though we won’t money are gifts that allow support to be lege raised more than $1,000 to keep him participated this reach our original offered to those most in need when, not if, in jail, says Chandler. year and to all who raised funds for the goal, it is a success when you can raise more they are needed,” says Miller. “This year’s Jail & Bail was a real suc- United Way,” says Chandler. than a million dollars for the community,” The United Way supports more than 66 cess. Many people went out of their way to Honourable mention goes to the says Svob. programs in 29 affiliated agencies in raise money to keep him there for as long Ventures department at the Glendale cam- There was a victory dinner on Dec. 4, Welland, Pelham, Port Colborne and as possible.” pus, with a Gondola theme, the which announced the campaign’s success Wainfleet. The campaign ran throughout October, Counselling department at the Welland and honoured when various events were held to raise funds. campus, with the Tacky Tea Party and The those responsi- Money was raised on Fridays, when var- Community Centre for Learning and ble for the larger ious departments, throughout the college’s Community Leadership at the Welland accounts, who three campuses, took part in Dress Down campus, with the Last of the Flower raised a signifi- Fridays, raising more than $860. Children. cant amount of A Halloween challenge took place on “Although the campaign didn’t raise money, Oct. 31, when various departments at the what was expected, we now have things to says Svob. Glendale and Welland campuses got the work towards for next year’s campaign.” Although the

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For Fare & Schedule Information Call From the Foundation Studies Division Niagara Falls 905-357-2133 or 1-800-461-7661 or visit our website at Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002, Page 31 Partnerships College, sister cities assisting industries By SARA CAMPBELL “You would normally find this Staff Writer type of equipment and curriculum Niagara College and a city in in universities that offer some China are working together to pro- advanced level of education in vide specialized technical training optics, microelectronics, electron- to assist local industries. ics and photonics.” A municipal delegation from Tiberi said Canadian microelec- Welland’s sister city of Tongxiang tronic and photonics companies visited the city and toured the col- have enjoyed global success with lege’s microelectronics and pho- their products. He added these tonics labs on Nov. 21. companies have production facili- The delegations included ties in other parts of the world, Mayor Fei Jianwen; Zhu Mingjie, including China, and there are vice-director (city manager); Yu already natural partnerships and Jianguo, director of the Tongxiang linkages in place. Industry Bureau; and Sungi, vice- “As we all share a common director of the Tongxiang People’s challenge to provide specialized Association for Friendship with technical training in an emerging Foreign Countries. field, we naturally share ideas, Leo Tiberi, the college’s direc- information and curriculum to tor of the Communications and meet the needs of the industry,” he Information Technology Division, said. “We have agreed to continue was host to the delegation at the discussions focusing on how we college. He said during their first can exchange these ideas and visit to the college, as well as work together for the common Welland, they were impressed good of the industries.” with the college’s facilities and Welland is entering its fifth year programs. of twinning with Tongxiang, “Post-secondary programs which has a population of 650,000 focusing on microelectronics and and is 110 kilometres west of photonics are generally not avail- Shanghai. able worldwide,” he said. “The Tiberi said the college is fact that we have (Class) 1,000 working with a school in clean (room) facilities and teach Shanghai to deliver the college’s A municipal delegation from Welland’s sister city of Tongxiang, China,visited Niagara College’s practical applications of IC (inte- two-year Computer Programmer microelectronics and photonics labs on Nov. 21. The college and Tongxiang are working togeth- grated circuit) design, thick film program. er to provide specialized technical training to assist industries. Picture above (fourth from the left) production, wafer fabrication, thin The following day, the delega- is Leo Tiberi, the college’s director of the Communications and Information Technology film and testing was quite surpris- tion visited the college’s Glendale Division, along with municipal representatives from the City of Welland and members of the ing to this group.” campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake. municipal delegation from Tongxiang. The facilities, housed in the They were guests of the Niagara Photo by Brendan Campbell Voyageur building, Tiberi said, Economic and Tourism are unique nationally or even Corporation and finished their Niagara Falls. offers a microelectronics program. into the World Trade globally. tour with a sightseeing tour of In Shanghai, Niagara College China was recently accepted Organization. Strengthening bond of college, university By JASON GROSSE growth and provide assistance to success- itate cross-border trade.” College to act as a catalyst ... to act as an Staff Writer ful enterprises that are looking to advance While the program is designed to operate organizing agent to help the businesses.” Niagara College and Niagara University their businesses through rapid growth in Southern Ontario and Western New Robie says businesses will be helped in Lewiston, N.Y., have signed a new development. York, “there is a certain amount of ambigu- through forums and discussions, in other agreement that further strengthens the bond “The general framework is (that) ity,” Robie says. words “taking companies that are doing between the two institutions. Niagara College has one of the most suc- Carter says the exchange between the OK now and bringing them to the next Known as the Rapid Business Growth cessful business development centres in two institutions will be in the form of busi- level.” Initiative, the agreement is designed to North America, (while) Niagara University ness models and research. “You’ve heard of the research triangle in stimulate business growth in Southern has the ability to do research, and so we’re “Niagara University and their communi- North Carolina and Silicon Valley (in Ontario and Western New York State. putting our comparative advantages togeth- ty are very interested in the model that California) and how they blew up Heather Carter, manager of the Niagara er,” Robie says. we’ve implemented here because we have overnight. We would like to create that College Business Development Centre, been so successful. We’re quite willing to environment here.” says the agreement was re-signed by the ‘(The partnership) share our model in exchange for some Robie says he has a student interning on two institutions in order to look at opportu- research,” she adds. the project next semester and the agree- nities in the region. commits the schools to “The nice thing about this partnership is ment “is designed to mean something to “We have had an agreement with that we should at least be able to assist our the students.” Niagara University in the past; we still work together with new entrepreneurs in trading over this “I see this as a model for international have a standing agreement.” border.” partnerships,” he says. Carter agrees with Carter says Niagara University brought community, government The model for the agreement is taken Robie and adds Niagara College “is known the idea of a cross-border agreement to the from the college’s Business Development for its ability to partner.” college. and business leaders to Centre at the Glendale campus, in Niagara- “Niagara College has been very suc- “Niagara University got in touch with us on-the-Lake. The centre has operated since cessful within the community. Niagara about a project they had in mind that develop co-operative 1992. Carter says a lot of credit for the cen- College has proven itself to be a very focused on two areas: creating a communi- tre’s success goes to Human Resources good partner and is open to creating part- ty that supports entrepreneurship ... and action plans – to really Development Canada. nerships,” she says. assisting businesses to become rapid- She says, “At any given time we work Carter says the impact on Niagara’s stu- growth businesses.” help facilitate with 100 different individuals in helping dents will be “co-op opportunities (that) Dr. Chet Robie, chair of the Niagara them get their business started,” adding, are easier to form.” International Forum for Growth, says the cross-border trade.’ what Niagara University would like to do “We will come and speak to any group agreement is designed to help “micro- is “work in their communities with the within the college, any class within the col- businesses,” which he describes as busi- – Dr. Chet Robie same kind of initiative.” lege, about entrepreneurship and the nesses that are under the $5 million level. “What the university is seeing is a need opportunities here in the Niagara region. He says the program is designed to pro- “(The partnership) commits the schools for some partnership in their communities “The reason we have been able to pro- vide support services to individuals start- to work together with community, govern- and some support for businesses,” she says. vide these services is that we’ve got a ing businesses, conduct research on key ment and business leaders to develop co- Robie agrees. “We realize that there is a tremendous amount of support from part- factors in business startup and rapid operative action plans – to really help facil- niche for Niagara University and Niagara ners in the community.” Page 32, Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002

Treble Charger gears up to rock the Falls By DANA BLACKLOCK if the CD is placed into a CD- Staff Writer ROM drive. The site offers many Blistering cold or not, you may special features that aren’t avail- want to spend this upcoming New able anywhere else. Year’s Eve outside. “It’s something special for our Treble Charger will be perform- fans. Hopefully, people will buy ing a free show at Queen Victoria the CD instead of downloading it,” Park in Niagara Falls on Dec. 31 says Priddle. to kick off the Niagara Falls’ New Treble Charger has recently Year’s Eve Party. recorded a music video for its lat- Since the release of Detox this est single, Hundred Million featur- past August, the members of ing other Canadian artists Gob, Treble Charger have been Swollen Members, Avril Lavigne extremely busy making their and Sum 41. It was the band’s first rounds all over Canada from time recording a live performance- Quebec to British Columbia. style music video. Guitarist/vocalist Bill Priddle “We just thought it would fit the says the band has played about 30 song,” says Priddle. shows since the release of their Priddle says that the band chose fifth album. the title Detox to mainly “go Detox was referred to as the against all the bad music out band’s “most consistent and kick- there” in the industry. ass album to date” on the official The Fables and Colin James Treble Charger Web site. Priddle and his Little Big Band will agrees, saying that with time the also be performing at the band- band has been making “better stand in Queen Victoria Park albums, better writing and better on Dec. 31. The performances Treble Charger plays Queen Victoria Park in Niagara Falls, Ont., on New Year’s Eve. From left, gui- recording.” are scheduled to start at 7:30 in tarist Bill Priddle, singer Greg Nori, bassist Rosie Martin and drummer Trevor Macgregor. Detox contains a secret Web site the evening. Submitted photo It’s a digital world Hip-hop stars tour Canada By MAT TAYLOR and Chuck D. By DAVID M. CLAYTON way of “building you up and tak- The Closet, the group has added Staff Writer More speakers will be Staff Writer ing you in your own direction.” longtime collaborators Rob The It’s a digital world. That’s the announced in the coming weeks. Mark Dec. 8 on your calendar. A third album is already in the Viking and Moka Only to the fold. theme of this year’s Canadian Also in association with CMW That’s when Canadian hip-hop works, scheduled for a summer “It’s added two more layers of Music Week Executive is the Xtreme Band Challenge, artists the Swollen Members will 2003 release, he says. texturing,” says Prevail, adding Conference at the West Harbour which pits the nation’s most tal- begin another tour. “A third album is in the process. Moka Only and his vocal talent Castle Hotel in Toronto. The con- ented, original and vigorous Beginning in Eastern Canada, We’re about three songs deep.” can only help the group become ference is a major part of bands in a rush for $50,000 in the band will head back to British Prevail says everyone the group better. Columbia for some family time, has had a chance to work with has Rob The Viking, with the addi- Canadian Music Week’s 20th cash and prizes. before travelling to Calgary for a been “amazing.” tion of producing, will also fill the anniversary. Giles said that localized rock New Year’s Eve show. He says Del and Aceylone are shoes as DJ for the group. Author and consultant Don radio stations organize indepen- Prevail, one of the four mem- “It opens us up to a whole new Tapscott will deliver the opening dent battle of the band-type con- bers of the group, recently came way of thinking.” keynote address to kick-start the tests and contribute the winners to back from a trip to Africa with Support from Canadian radio festival, said Julie Giles, of the final playdown in Toronto on MuchMusic VJ (video jockey) and magazines, as well as televi- Holmes Creative the final day of Canadian Music George Stroumboulopoulos to sion’s MuchMusic and a loyal Communications. Week, March 1. help commemorate World AIDS underground following, have Tapscott, an authority on busi- Finalists will have 15 minutes Day and raise awareness about helped the group gain the new ness strategy and a Fortune 100 to wow an audience and a panel HIV/AIDS. popularity. consultant, has coined many of of esteemed judges who are yet to Prevail, in a telephone inter- “A lot of it has to do with the today’s business concepts, includ- be announced. view, says the trip was “amazing,” fact that we had a lot of exposure ing the Net Generation and Prizes for the winner include but added it was sad to see the cri- in the past.” Digital Capital. $2,000, a slew of musical equip- sis that Africans are facing with Prevail says the Juno Award the His address will focus on the ment and 30 hours of studio time HIV/AIDS. group won for its first album, The group’s newest album, Balance, helped them gain main- challenges the digital wave has at MetalWorks Studio in Toronto placed on the music business. Monsters In The Closet, is the stream popularity. with acclaimed Canadian produc- follow-up to their platinum-selling two of his favourite MCs and adds Other awards the group has won Other keynote speakers include er Rich Chyki, who has worked album Bad Dreams, which went Son Doobie and others offer include another Juno award for famed Canadian musician/pro- with Mick Jagger and Aerosmith. gold in just three weeks. It con- “some tips and hints from the Bad Dreams and four MuchMusic ducer Daniel Lanois, music Interested groups should tune tains a collection of b-sides and pros.” Video Awards. industry analyst Bob Lefsetz, into rock radio stations across the unreleased tracks that, Prevail The group maintains a close Prevail says in five years he author Andrew Hill and recording country. Local Ontario stations says, didn’t fit in with what they relationship with fellow hip-hop sees the group a couple of artist Pat DiNizio. include Edge 102, in Toronto, were trying to accomplish with group Dilated Peoples who, he albums deeper, his hair definite- Past speakers include Moby, Y108, in Hamilton, FM96, in Bad Dreams and is more of a 2 says, have been “so instrumental” ly a little longer and the group’s Henry Rollins, Chrissie Hynde London, and 89X, Windsor. 1/2 than a full third album. in helping them. family mentality growing He says the new album has a With the release of Monsters In stronger. Writer offers some ideas for that last minute music shopper By MAT TAYLOR Warning Sign and Amsterdam. ligent hard-driving tunes, Wiretap is one of the best albums of Staff Writer For the inner Maple Leafs fan buried deep in all of us is In the last 10 years, let alone 2002. It’s that time again. It’s time for pop music conglomerates to Violet Light, the articulate collection put forth by Kingston’s Standout tracks include Cut Your Ribbon, Mye and Air. release the usual barrage of No. 1 hit compilations. Tragically Hip. Upon hearing the radio single, It’s a Good Life Next comes alternative folk hero’s Wilco. They have once MuchMusic is of course pimping its Big Shiny Tunes for the If You Don’t Weaken, even the most jaded spectator tunes in again assured themselves good standing on college campus seventh year in a row. Listen to me people. Turn on the radio. realizing this can’t be the same group that brought us Poets and radio charts worldwide with the 2002 release Yankee Hotel This is where all of these No. 1 chart toppers are heard every My Music at Work, but it is. Foxtrot. Lead man Jeff Tweedy’s voice seems to have gotten 3.5 seconds. Returning to a once-thriving hard-rock edge, The Hip deliv- better, and the tightness of the music is incredible. What I’m going to do now is give you safe alternatives to the er their best effort since 1994’s Day for Night. Standout tracks include Radio Cure, Kamera and Pot Kettle usual drivel put forth before the holidays. Stand-out tracks include The Dark Canuck, All Tore Up and Black. There were five albums that caught this rock writer’s ear this Throwing Off Glass. Last and certainly not least comes another British entry, past year. Does anybody remember “screamo” band At the Drive–In. Doves. After dabbling briefly in house, techno and all sorts of First is Coldplay. The latest effort by these Brit-pop poster They made a small, but important, splash in the emo/hardcore mixes, Doves settled for an indefinable sound on their latest boys, A Rush of Blood to the Head, is a perfect mix of piano- scene last year with their crunchy single, One Armed Scissor. vehicle, The Last Broadcast. Doves, a trio, sound like an orchestra on acid, borrowing sounds from lots of instruments. drenched ballads and toe-tapping rock songs. All their success aside, they broke up. Vocalist Jimi Goodwin’s melodramatic wailing is a welcome Unlike their debut, Parachutes, Blood has uncertain down- One of two offshoots of ATDI is Sparta. Led by ATDI back- change from the usual bread-rock growls of modern rock. tuned complexities, rare with bands today. Singer Chris up vocalist and guitar player Jim Ward, Sparta’s debut, Doves are an under-rated band, to say the least. Martin’s staggering falsetto is as strong as ever after last year’s Wiretap Scars, is totally kick-ass. Standout tracks include There Goes the Fear, Words and vocal chord scare. Stand-out tracks include The Scientist, Featuring the single Cut Your Ribbon and many more intel- Pounding. Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002, Page 33 Entertainment Simpsons producer visits Brock University By KATE DESROCHES Shandling and was a writer for the TV show ALF. and parodied, Canada is the only one from which no one Staff Writer Reiss writes children’s books, his most popular being called to complain. “You guys wanted more,” says Reiss. “Americans like The Simpsons. Canadians love The How Murray Saved Christmas. Reiss gave the audience some inside tips on why things Simpsons.” For the Tonight Show with Carson, Reiss says he wrote happened and what is to come for The Simpsons. Fans can Mike Reiss, one of the longtime producers of The about 60 jokes a day. He says that when it comes to writing expect a return of Sideshow Bob. The demise of Maude Simpsons, spoke at Brock University in St. Catharines on comedy, “you can’t help yourself but do it.” The job, he Flanders was because “she sucked,” and the live action Nov. 15 as a part of an annual series of Pop Culture semi- says, is not without challenges, tough. “You never know Simpsons show is already on the air. nars offered through Brock’s Humanities department. what people are going to laugh at.” “It’s called the Osbournes. The naughty son, the misun- “Talking about comedy is kind of like phone sex,” says The Simpsons is in its 14th season and is the longest run- derstood daughter and the wife that’s in love with a fat Reiss, adding he enjoys speaking to Canadian audiences. ning animated show and the longest running sitcom in the retard and no one knows why.” “You guys are smarter. Maybe it’s the schools, maybe it’s history of television. Reiss added the “ratings have never The Simpsons costs $2 million a week to produce. Adult the Tim Hortons coffee.” been higher.” women voice all the children’s characters on the show. Reiss started writing for the Harvard Lampoon (at Reiss is responsible for the creation of Troy McClure, “Hey, guys. Millhouse is hot,” says Reiss. HarvardN University) andi moved aon to writing ing Hollywood awhom you mayr remembera from such movies as NP is for Reisse ended the showw with a contest for ssome Simpsons’ for theN movie Airplane II.i He alsoa wrote jokes forg comedian Psycho.ara Nimpressionse and a reminderw for all fans: “Thes Simpson’s and talk show host Johnny Carson and talk show host Gary Of all the countries that The Simpsons have vacationed in writers do not do drugs ... anymore.” Hollywood’s formula: glitz, glamour, redundancy By BRENDAN CAMPBELL to see over and over, why exactly are they before we get in there.” any other person does: escapism,” says Staff Writer spending their money on it? Other reasons stated were that when Educational Assistant — Special Needs Hollywood: The glitz, the glamour, the “People in our society are very comfort- watching these movies you don’t have Support program student Lee Abram. same movies being released over and over able with the feeling of familiarity,” says to think, as you would if you went to “They’re not reality at all.” ... and over. Broadcasting — Radio, Television and Film see a movie with a more complex plot Maybe the best way to sum up why Filmmakers have realized that while the program student Dave Popowich, 20, of than most. these movies keep becoming blockbusters tried and true may be redundant, it doesn’t London, Ont. “Seeing something that they “If I’m not in the mood to think, I’ll just is one of the more simple answers. seem to matter to the movie-going audience. recognize allows audience members to feel pop in American Pie or (The) Mighty Ducks “They make people feel good,” says No matter how many boy-meets-girl, boy- more relaxed.” and I’m already assured a happy ending and Sue Gowin, 20, of London, who is a for- loses-girl, boy-gets-girl-back-then-loses- “I think it’s a way to pass the time,” says not too much thought,” says Popowich. mer Computer Systems Technology pro- her-again-but-there’s-only-15-minutes-left- Educational Assistant — Special Needs While familiarity is one of the main rea- gram student at the college. “And with so-you-know-everything-will-be-okay Support program student Krista Wilson, 20, sons, another one was that seeing these all the stress and constant depression ris- movies come out, they still do well in the of Brampton. “We always hope that the movies was a way to “escape” reality for a ing in our society, people will do any- box office. movie is going to turn out different, even short amount of time. thing to feel better for even a couple of If it’s the same movie people are paying though in our minds we know the ending “I go to see a movie for the same reason hours.” College doing good job providing entertainment for students By BRENDAN CAMPBELL good time. I do work there and see quite a few people in into the new year? The same answer came up on multiple Staff Writer attendance.” occasions and seemed to be the main thing students would Could college life get any more exciting come 2003? While the majority of those questioned felt that the col- like to see in 2003. “I think that the entertainment at the school is rather lege was doing a good job providing entertainment, some “As for bands and stuff, they should do things other than scarce compared to what I hear about the entertainment believed more variety could be added throughout the year. just the little talent nights,” says Abram. “Find some good value of other educational institutions,” says Broadcasting “As far as entertainment outside of pub night and Comedy bands and have them play at the pub, not just a couple 19 — Radio, Television and Film student program, Dave Night goes, they’re ok. For Thursday night pub, there could year olds with guitars, attempting to play music.” Popowich, 20, of London, Ont. be more different nights,” says Educational Assistant — Hudec, who works in the pub, says the same though he Others seem to disagree, like second-year Police Special Needs Support student Lee Abram, 19, of Barrie. understands the reasons why this isn’t an easy request. “I’d Foundations program student Shawn Hudec, 20, of Simcoe, “The foam thing was awesome, but that’s what attracts the like to see a couple of well-known bands play here on occa- Ont. “The pub is doing a lot better this year, when compared people, things like that.” sion,” he says, “Although everything in that department to last. With regards to the pub nights, they seem to be a What is one thing that the college could improve heading comes with money.” Niagara staff, students pick favourite movies, tracks of 2002 By MAT TAYLOR 1. Jackass: The Movie 4. Jackass: The Movie 6. Spiderman Staff Writer 2. The Ring 5. Red Dragon As the fall term ends here at Niagara 3.White Oleander Phyllis Barnatt College, and the holiday season is fast Jesse Foster: Second-year Co-ordinator Journalism-Print program approaching, you may find yourself looking Jeremy Wilson: Journalism-Print program 1. Josh Groban - Josh Groban for a gift for that special someone. A hand- Second-year Broadcasting 1. Eminem - The Eminem Show 2. Andrea Bocelli - Sentimento ful of students and staff have listed their — Radio, Television and Film program 2. 8 Mile Soundtrack vol. 1 3. Faith Hill - Cry favourite music and movies of 2002. 1. Coldplay - A Rush of Blood to the Head 3. Ja Rule - Last Temptation 4. Toni Braxton - No Shirt, No Shoes, No Problem 2. The Tragically Hip - In Violate Light 4. Nelly - Nellyville 5. Ron Sexsmith - Cobblestone runway 3. The Coral - The Coral 5. Up - Shania Twain Dana Blacklock: 4. Sam Roberts - The Inhuman Condition 1. Lord Of the Rings - Second-year Journalism-Print program 5. Wilco - Yankee Hotel Foxtrot 1. The Ring The Fellowship of the Ring 1. Silverchair - Diorama 2. 8 Mile 2. Bowling for Columbine 2. Sigur Ros - ( ) 1. The Ring 3. Monsters Inc. 3. Die Another Day 3. George Harrison - Brainwashed 2. The Royal Tenenbaums 4. XXX 4. Ocean’s Eleven 4. Anita Athavale - The First Time 3. One Hour Photo 5. Resident Evil 5. My Big Fat Greek Wedding • NITECLUBS • LLooookk wwhhoo ccaammee oouutt ooff rreettiirreemmeenntt!! DOORS OPEN AT 9PM

PLAYING TONIGHT NO COVER & CHARGE EVERY “JAMBONE”“JAMBONE”“JAMBONE” WEDNESDAY 1030 NIAGARA ST., WELLAND 905-735-6666 AT RAMADA INN Page 34, Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002 Buzzer beater lifts men’s b-ball team to win By JORDIE FRY stuff and letting the guys play the would prevail and Jones said the Staff Writer game, it was sloppy underneath feeling was the same on the A last-second three-point the net for both teams. Knights’ bench. “ The entire team buzzer beater by Niagara Knights’ Points in the paint were hard to knew we were going to win and point guard Edson Jones lifted the come by with both teams scoring our attitudes changed and we men’s basketball team to victory the majority of their points by wanted it a lot more.” Behind the Monday night. way of three pointers and long- smooth shooting of Jones, the What was looking to be a nar- range jumpers. It was only fitting, Knights were ahead by three. The row defeat for the Knights turned then, that Niagara needed a three Falcons controlled their own des- into an exceptional come-from- pointer to tie the game with 14 tiny with a chance to do what behind win against London’s seconds to go. Jones did to them at the end of Fanshawe College. Niagara called a timeout to try regulation time, fortunately for the Fanshawe flew out of the gates and set up a play to get a three. “ The Knights, they were unable to behind the stellar shooting of num- coach called the play and told me repeat his performance. ber 11, opening up a 10-point lead take the three if I was open and if not The Knights won the game 82-79. by halftime. The Knights came out then look for Eliran,” says Jones. Jones, who had been hampered with flat but managed to keep the game Jones, known as “Silky,” was a bad leg said he’s back to “100 per in reach but, Jones says, it was that and more as he took a three cent Eddie” and led the team with 20 thanks to Jamaal Cornwall that pointer and missed, but had the points while Cornwall dropped in 17 they were still close. “Jamaal ball smacked back out to him. points and 11 boards with Eliran played well and kept us in the With the game clock down to near- Kikos draining 16 points and Kevin game early.” ly three seconds, Jones was cool, Ellington netting 12. “We played really sloppy in the calm and collected in getting a The Knights move to 3-1 on the first half as nobody had any inten- clean grip on the ball. He threw an season and are looking to keep sity until half way through the sec- off-balance long-distance three as their winning trend when they ond half,” said starting forward time expired that fell straight return next term to complete the Cornwall. through the net snapping the twine season. Despite the Knights pressing to back. The home crowd erupted The Knights host a tournament close the gap in the second half into a frenzy and the game was on Dec. 13 and Dec. 14 and return against the Falcons, they just sent into overtime. to regular season play Jan. 11 at Knights forward Jamaal Cornwall goes hard to the glass in an 82- couldn’t pull even. With the refer- As overtime started, the feeling home when they face Genesee 79 win over London’s Fanshawe College on Dec. 2. ees not calling a lot of the rough in the gym was that the Knights Community College at 2 p.m. Photo by Jordie Fry Both volleyball teams remain undefeated in season play

By JORDIE FRY 25-22 and 25-17. Leading the way for the Knights was forced a fifth and final set. Staff Writer Llord, who pounded out 15 points, while Tracy Smith blast- The game was intense and went down to the final point as The Niagara College women’s volleyball team continued ed home12 points and Nicole Webber chipped in with seven the Sting pulled out an 18-16 win sending the Knights home its winning ways by recording two impressive wins on the points. defeated. road recently. On Saturday, Nov. 30, a volleyball exhibition double- “We have been playing really well before this, but The trip started on Nov. 20, when the team travelled to header was held at Niagara College in the Mackenzie although the players are there physically, they are mentally Windsor to take on St. Clair College. After starting the game Athletic Centre with the women playing at 2 p.m. and the lacking focus and need to improve for the second term,” on fire and winning the first two sets 25-12 and 25-9, the men’s team playing at 4 p.m. against North York’s Seneca says coach Kerby Bentley. lady Knights stumbled a bit, narrowly losing the third set College. Graeme Gaunt powered the way for the Knights, smash- 25-23. They got right back on track with a convincing 25-14 The women Knights came out flying, winning the first ing home a game-high 24 points with 20 kills, three stuffed final set clinching the victory for the Knights. set 25-12 before slowing down and losing 25-15 in the blocks and one service ace. Justin Ross helped out with 15 Although the team was led by the sister combination of second set. From there the ladies took complete control of points on 11 kills and four stuffed blocks, and Nick Vicky and Tracy Smith, it was a team effort that earned the game, rolling to a 25-17 and 25-19, a three sets to one Touchette had nine kills and three stuffed blocks for 12 total them the win. Vicky Smith had 12 points and Tracy Smith victory. points. had 11 points with Heidi Popov contributing nine points and Once again the dominating Smith duo led, recording 12 “Nick is playing really well for us, as not many people are Ginni Llord smacking home eight points. points each, with Tracy having seven kills and five stuffed able to block him,” says Bentley. The Knights earned Ontario College Athletics blocks and Vicky finishing with five kills, one service ace The Knights still remain undefeated in season play sporting Association team of the week honours prior to the game and and six stuffed blocks. Rounding out the double-digit scor- a 5-0 record and both of the volleyball teams returned to their showed exactly why they were chosen. ers for Niagara were Llord with 11 points and Nicole regular season schedule for a doubleheader last night, Dec. 5, From Windsor the Knights travelled to Sault College in Carleton-Burnham closing out with 10 points. at home against Hamilton’s Mohawk College with the women Sault Ste. Marie, where they pulled off another big win to The men’s team came out slowly, losing the first two sets playing at 6 p.m. and the men taking the floor at 8 p.m. remain undefeated on the season and improve a stellar 7-0 25-18 and 26-24 but came on strong in the next two sets. The men are hosting a tournament tonight and tomorrow record. The Knights cruised to a straight sets win of 25-12, The Knights turned it around winning 25-16 and 25-19 to with their first game taking place at 8 p.m. tonight.

Women’s Volleyball Standings 2002/2003 Men’s Volleyball Standings 2002/2003 TEAM MP W L POINTS TEAM MP W L POINTS CENTRAL CENTRAL Cambrian Golden Shield 7 7 0 14 Humber Hawks 5 5 0 10 Humber Hawks 7 6 1 12 Seneca Sting 5 4 1 8 Seneca Sting 7 5 2 10 Georgian Grizzlies 6 4 2 8 Georgian Grizzlies 6 3 3 6 Cambrian Golden Shields 6 2 4 4 Sheridan Bruins 5 2 3 4 George Brown Huskies 5 2 3 4 Boreal Viperes 7 2 5 4 Sheridan Bruins 5 2 3 4 Centennial Colts 5 0 5 0 Boreal Viperes 6 0 6 0 Confederation Thunderhawks 6 0 6 0 EAST EAST Loyalist Lancers 5 5 0 10 Algonquin Thunder 7 6 1 12 Fleming Knights 5 3 2 6 Loyalist Lancers 6 5 1 10 Royal Military Paladins 4 3 1 6 Durham Lords 5 4 1 8 La Cite Coyotes 4 2 2 4 Trent Excalibur 5 3 2 6 Durham Lords 5 1 4 2 Royal Military Paladins 5 1 4 2 Algonquin Thunders 5 0 5 0 Fleming Knights 6 1 5 2 WEST La Cite Coyotes 6 0 6 0 Niagara Knights 5 5 0 10 WEST Nipissing Lakers 8 5 3 10 Niagara Knights 7 7 0 14 Fanshawe Falcons 5 4 1 8 Fanshawe Falcons 8 6 2 12 Redeemer Royals 6 4 2 8 Mohawk Mountaineers 7 5 2 10 St. Clair Saints 6 2 4 4 Canadore Panthers 9 5 4 10 Mohawk Mountaineers 5 1 4 2 Nipissing Lakers 8 5 3 10 Canadore Panthers 7 0 7 0 Sault Cougars 8 4 4 8 Lambton Lions 8 1 7 2 Redeemer Royals 7 1 6 2 St. Clair Saints 8 1 7 2 Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002, Page 35 Sports Brock cheerleader just wants to have fun By ADAM CAMPBELL garnered first place at the 1997 leading. “I’ve got back and wrist This year’s nationals were held Staff Writer All-Ontario Cheerleading problems from tumbling on hard- at the Hershey Centre in Once an Olympic hopeful in Championships at Queen’s wood floors and tossing girls in Mississauga, Ont., where the gymnastics, Lyndsey Sykes, 20, of University in Kingston, Ont. the air. I don’t know where it will Brock squad place 14th with a Welland, Ont., decided cheering “After winning the Ontario’s in bring me in the long run. I don’t good overall performance, says for the Notre Dame High School Grade 9, the recognition was awe- know if all of the bruises, aches Sykes. Fighting Irish was the better some. And then suddenly I wasn’t and strains are really worth it.” “(The University of) Western choice. a rookie anymore and wasn’t Sykes says the Brock cheerlead- (Ontario, of London) won again “Once I realized that competing picked on by my coach.” ing squad didn’t fair well at last for the 18th straight year. It’s a in gymnastics and training 25 Sykes says she and the rest of year’s University National little iffy considering they did hours a week was what I had to do, the squad found time to balance Cheerleading Championships, fin- drop a girl, which should be a ton I quit,” says Sykes. their cheering schedule with some ishing last. The tournament was of marks off. A tumbler fell on For the seventh consecutive not-so-common demands. A held at Ivor Wynn Centre building his face and two of their stunts year, Sykes is cheering competi- Notre Dame agent for student ath- at McMaster University in came down. The second place tively. This year she is not cheer- letes received a call from juice Hamilton, where 15 other univer- team, (Wilfrid) Laurier ing for her high school, but for the manufacturer 5-Alive. The com- sities from Canada congregated. (University, in Waterloo, Ont.), Brock University Badgers, in St. was excellent. I honestly think Catharines. cheerleading judging can be Submitted photo Sykes, in her second-year of worse than figure skating.” Brock University’s Business If you’re interested in seeing Communications Co-op program, Sykes and the rest of the Brock hopes one day to get a job in pub- cheerleading squad compete, you lic relations for radio or television. can catch them at the Holiday She says she finds time to balance Cheer for Charity competition a full-time cheerleading, school against other universities from and work schedule in addition to Karen Dzugan chose Sykes and New York State. The competition her duties as a second-place finish- five others to participate. will be held at Niagara Falls High er in the Welland Rose Queen Sykes says they got a call back School on Dec. 7 in Niagara pageant this past summer. Submitted photo after impressing the casting agents Falls, N.Y. Sykes says the transition from with their everyday routine. Submitted photo Above: Sykes on top of the gymnastics to cheerleading wasn’t Notre Dame cheerleaders are no pyramid in 1997. an easy road. strangers to the spotlight as they Top left and top right: Sykes “My first year cheerleading was have been featured in movies such speaking and walking down rough. I wasn’t used to being as A Cool Dry Day, The Hardwood the runway at the Rose Queen pushed so far by a coach. Every and Urban Legends. Pageant this past summer. night, when I came home crying, “It’s a lot of hard work and pres- (ready) to quit, my mom made me sure. I think I keep it up for the Bottom left: Sykes in 1997 stay on and keep practicing.” pany was looking for cheerlead- attention.” “With more than half the team (bottom left), at the 5-Alive With being pushed so hard came ers to audition as extras for a Sykes finished her high school injured, our routine didn’t go very commercial shoot in Toronto. success in a winning form. The commercial. cheerleading career as team cap- well. I try to block last year from Bottom right: Sykes always Fighting Irish cheerleading squad Notre Dame cheerleading coach tain with a solid resumé. She cap- my mind.” happy to pose for a cheer. tured on Ontario championship, two Erie County Fair tournaments in New York State and two region- al championships, and she took the top individual cheerleader award in her final year at Notre Dame. Sykes says cheering at Brock is a more relaxed atmosphere than Notre Dame was. Submitted photo “It’s not even recognized as a varsity sport, but practices are more fun. My coach and team- mates are so much nicer. We’re Adam Campbell Photo by older and more mature.” Sykes says she questions trying to balance a university workload and a full-time hobby in cheer-

Women’s Basketball Standings 20002/2003 Men’s Basketball Standings 20002/2003 TEAM G WL POINTS TEAM G WL POINTS EAST CENTRAL Seneca Sting 5 5 0 10 Humber Hawks 4 4 0 8 Algonquin Thunder 6 4 2 8 Mohawk Mountaineers 4 3 1 6 Humber Hawks 4 3 1 6 Sheridan Bruins 2 1 1 2 Georgian Grizzlies 5 2 3 4 Seneca Sting 3 1 2 2 Durham Lords 4 1 3 2 George Brown Huskies 5 1 4 2 Loyalist Lancers 4 1 3 2 Centennial Colts 2 0 2 0 George Brown Huskies 4 0 4 0 EAST Algonquin Thunder 6 6 0 12 WEST Durham Lords 4 2 2 4 Fanshaw Falcons 5 5 0 10 St. Lawrence Vikings 3 2 1 4 St. Clair Saints 4 3 1 6 Georgian Grizzlies 4 2 2 4 Niagara Knights 3 2 1 4 Loyalist Lancers 4 1 3 2 Redeemer Royals 5 2 3 4 Fleming Knights 5 0 5 0 Mohawk Mountaineers 3 0 3 0 Algoma Thunderbirds 4 0 4 0 WEST Niagara Knights 4 3 1 6 G = games Sault Cougars 5 3 2 6 W = wins St. Clair Saints 4 3 1 6 L = losses Fanshawe Falcons 6 3 3 6 Lambton Lions 3 2 1 4 Redeemer Royals 5 1 4 2 Algoma Thunderbirds 5 1 4 2 Page 36, Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002 The name’s Stevenson … Andrew Stevenson By BRENDAN CAMPBELL Would he ever want anyone Staff Writer other than himself to direct or Andrew Stevenson sits in his produce his screenplays? He office pondering which one of the nods and his hands slide over one movie out of the hundreds his mouth as he thinks. He he’s seen over the years stands then lowers his hand before out as his absolute favourite. responding. With his love for movies evi- “I mean if there was a direc- dent at this point, and his passion tor whom I respected and for the industry, what does he admired I wouldn’t have any enjoy most about his job here? problems with having him He needs a moment to think direct something I’ve written,” before responding. he says before emphasizing his “I really enjoy teaching film. own love for the work. (The) part that I enjoy most is “But no, I really enjoy the getting out there on location and filmmaking side of it as well. making it happen, dealing with And to me, it’s, like, writing a the things that pop up when script is only half the process you’re shooting and coming up and it seems kind of artificial with creative solutions for those to sort of stop at that point. situations,” he says as his voice You want to kind of see it picks up speed showing his through to its completion and enthusiasm. “There’s nothing whether that means doing it more exciting than being on a set yourself or whether it means and crafting the lighting and the working together with some- shots and the blocking of the body who’s creative vision you actors. I could do that all day, share, either way I think as a every day because it’s always dif- writer you’re going to want to ferent. It’s always changing. be involved right through to You’re never in the same situa- the end. tion twice.” “Because the screenplay While he does say he enjoys really is nothing in and of teaching, he follows up by itself, a screenplay only exists adding, “It’s nice to get out of the to be fulfilled as a film. So CUT! Andrew Stevenson fills up the cutting room floor in the editing suite located in the Voyageur classroom into the real world. that’s what you have in your Wing at the Welland campus. Making movies — that’s my head when you’re writing, so Photo by Brendan Campbell favourite part for sure.” you want to see it realized.”

What have any of the graduates of the course he teach- he’s about to make. laughs before answering. es gone on to do? Have they headed down to Hollywood “I think first and foremost it’s dedication and perse- “I guess I’d love to write and direct my first feature film. in pursuit of the dream of fame and fortune or have they verance and the willingness to work hard. That’s an I still have to accomplish that. That would be, I guess, my stayed in Canada to feast upon a new and rising market? absolute prerequisite. If you don’t have that it doesn’t No. 1 dream.” Have any of the graduates gone on to do anything after matter how brilliant or creative you are. You’re probably As the interview comes to a close, there is one final ques- their time in the program here? Stevenson smiles and not going to get very far. But if you’re dedicated and tion: What is his favourite movie? responds rather proudly to the question. hard working, and you have a creative ability and are Silence fills the room, as this was a question that stumped “Yeah, a number of our students have gone on. One of able to bring originality and freshness and new ideas to him over all the others. He looks up at the ceiling, his face our most recent grads just finished an hour-long drama what you’re doing, then you’re going to be a success in in total thought. After moments pass he names off a few that that was made in Newfoundland and made for CBC. I film or television, the media generally.” he seems to be grabbing at in his head. served as a consultant on the script and so he’s already, “That’s a tough one. In science fiction I like Blade within two years of graduating, directing and producing Runner, and Brazil and Alien. I really like Woody Allen his own films,” he says, thinking of a few other cases ‘…if there was a director films. I would have to say Annie Hall was one of my all- before going on. time favourites,” he pauses again, thinking before going on. “And we have a few other grads as well who’ve gone whom I respected and “I like Chinatown as one of my all time favourites.” He on to similar success. One of our grads, I didn’t teach once again finds himself pausing with a look as though him personally, but he’s the executive producer of Blue admired I wouldn’t have thousands of movie titles are surfing through his mind at Murder. He was one of the original creators of the series that very moment. He shakes the thoughts free and speaks and he writes a lot of the scripts.” any problems with having again. Does he like to keep in touch with his students once “I don’t know. There are so many. It’s, like, really hard they leave the college? him direct something when you’ve been sort of studying and teaching film so “Definitely. I like to stay current with what my stu- long. It’s tough. I like the Coen brothers’ films. I think Fargo dents have done once they’ve graduated, for a number of I’ve written.’ is one of the best films of recent years.” reasons. I mean, of course, you become acquainted with He let the rest slip free from his train of thought, finding your students and you want to know what they’ve done Does this NYU graduate recommend taking a film course it impossible to pick one favourite; it just wasn’t meant to after they get out of school,” he says. if you’re interested in this field at all? be. As the interview comes to a close we shake hands and “But also I find it helps to inspire students that are cur- “Absolutely. I think it gives you a chance to learn your part ways. rently in the program. It’s often hard for students who craft, learn the skills you need to learn in an environment After I returned to the newsroom to work only moments are in school to make the leap to what it’ll be like for where everything isn’t on the line,” he says. “There can be later, Stevenson walks through the door with a big smile them after they’re out in the real world working. So if I a lot out there in the real world working in the film and tele- matching a look of victory on his face as though he’d just know what grads have gone on to do, then I can kind of vision industry, and if you’re just entering that industry with figured out the answer to one of life’s hardest questions. inspire the students I have now and say, ‘Well now, look, no background or no experience, it can be pretty difficult, He walks up to me and says, “Monty Python and the this is where you could be when you get out of here and pretty challenging ... it puts you that much further ahead. Holy Grail.” I think a lot of times students are surprised at how suc- “It also gives students a chance to make their first few Well, maybe it wasn’t the answer to one of life’s hardest cessful they can be if they really put their minds to it projects, to maybe direct their first film, edit their first film questions, but it was an answer that seemed to put his mind once they get out of here ... they can be very successful ... whereas in the industry it would take you years and years at ease when he figured it out. ... so that’s why I try to stay up to date.” to get to the point where you can actually direct or edit ... it Just another happy Hollywood ending. With experience and knowledge about the industry on could take 10, 15, maybe 20 years to get to that point.” Look for Andrew Stevenson’s own documentary film his side, Stevenson then brings up what he personally After all he’s done over the years for students, and after “My Part of Town” about Hamilton’s waterfront to be thinks it takes to be successful in this business. His tone all he’s accomplished in his life, what is the one dream that airing on The Documentary Channel in early February. becomes serious as he seems to want to stress the points he still hopes to achieve? He thinks for a moment then http://www.broadcasting.niagarac.on.ca Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002, Page 37 Bowl for Charity strikes up ‘tons of fun’ By SHANNON BURROWS “I haven’t bowled in a long Staff Writer time,” said Ashford. “I’m doing Bowling, beer and birthday cake better than I thought I would. It’s a were the main ingredients at a great way to spend my birthday.” recent fundraiser held by “I’m having tons of fun,” said Broadcasting — Radio, Television Shaun Whittaker, 20, of North and Film (BRTF) students. Bay, a second-year BRTF program The Bowl for Charity was orga- student. “I’m glad that we’re out nized by the department heads of here supporting the Help A Child The Heat 90.1 FM, Niagara Smile Foundation. I’m pleased College’s radio station, to raise with the turnout, too.” funds for the Help A Child Smile Larry Lutz, vice-president of the Foundation, the station’s charity of Kingsway Five-Pin Bowler’s choice for the year. Association, was “helping out” Ten teams showed up to bowl at behind the bowling shoe counter at the Kingsway Centre in Welland, the bowling alley the night of the and more than $100 was raised event. between entry fees and raffle tick- He said the alley holds a lot of ets for a food basket, which was draws, raffles, house tournaments donated by Commisso’s, a local and fundraisers, so events like the supermarket chain. Bowl for Charity are common. “Everyone seems to be having a “We do a lot with handicaps and good time,” said Shannon senior citizens. We do a lot of Robinson, 21, of Sarnia, a third- youth bowling. We help a lot of year BRTF program student and people out. We raise a lot of promotions director for The Heat money.” 90.1 FM. Jay Fiegehen, a.k.a. Doober She says the department heads Ducci, 20, of Orangeville, Brian would have liked to see more peo- Currie, a.k.a. Pepe LaGardia, 27, ple out because all the proceeds go of Southampton, both second-year to charity, adding she would like to BRTF program students, and Mat see the Bowl for Charity become Taylor, a.k.a. Chachi Barone, 20, an annual event, but “it’s all up to of Norwich, a second-year the department heads next year.” Journalism-Print program student, Shannon Robinson, Lucy participated in the event under the Lariccia, Elisha Snelling, Jon team name the Cardinals from the Sanders, Renee Berube and Patty South Central Welland, senior Rozakos were the department Italian league. They claimed they heads who organized different were undefeated in the game. components of the event, such as “We’re professionals,” said the raffles and advertising. “It’s Barone. “They (co-ordinators) totally a group effort,” said book us for charities. We’re minor celebrities.” Lariccia, a 29, a third-year BRTF From left, Mat Taylor, a.k.a. Chachi Barone, Brian Currie, a.k.a. Pepe LaGardia and Jay Fiegehen, program student, of Welland. “We “We can’t get enough of bowl- ing for the kids,” said Ducci. a.k.a. Doober Ducci, members of the Cardinals bowling team from South Central Welland, partici- depend on everybody.” “Plus the girls can’t lay off pated in the Bowl For Charity at Kingsway Centre on Nov. 20. The event took place on the Chachi,” said LaGardia. Photo by Shannon Burrows same day as BRTF technician The Niagara College BRTF pro- Second-year BRTF program stu- me,” he said. “I don’t have to go thank everyone who participated Bruce Ashford’s birthday. The St. gram staff team of Tom Pagonis, dent Jeremy Wilson, 20, of grocery shopping for another in the Bowl for Charity. Catharines resident was celebrat- Ron Tufts, Bill Boehlen and Bruce Otterville, Ont., was the winner of week.” The BRTF Website is ing his 43rd birthday with birthday Ashford were the top scorers that the food basket. “This is the great- The radio station department http://www.broadcasting.nia- cake available to all bowlers. evening. est thing that ever happened to heads said they would like to garac.on.ca. BRTF student places third at film festival By SHANNON BURROWS The film took 64 hours to com- goes back to her childhood. When favourite movies are suspense and My parents were into the supernat- Staff Writer plete, including editing time. I was a kid, I made animation. I’d dark comedies,” says Duclos. ural. We used to go ghost hunting Winning third place in the “Originally I was trying to make take my grandfather’s camcorder Some of her favourite movies are in abandoned houses. I watched a Barrie International Film Festival it (the film) more serious, but it and try to make claymation.” Naked Lunch, The Shawshank lot of horror movies. I watched a is a step in the right direction for ended up being more of a black She says she plans to be Redemption and Beetlejuice. “It’s lot of movies that I probably Michelle Duclos. comedy,” says Duclos. involved in the film industry in the (the latter) a classic.” shouldn’t have watched.” Duclos, 23, of Tottenham, Ont., She says she was “surprised” to future. “I’ve got lots of ideas. I “Most people think I’m weird. “I’m really a nice person,” says wrote and directed the five-minute hear that she had placed third at wouldn’t mind directing. I’m not I’m probably the only person I Duclos. “I just have weird inter- film Desperation, which was the festival. “I just entered. I set on any specific goals. I like all know who on their birthday, their ests. People need to see something screened at the Barrie festival in thought I wouldn’t even get a aspects (of film).” parents put up Halloween decora- that shocks them. Scaring people competition with about 30 other phone call back.” Duclos says she would like to tions and put a wolfman candle in is fun. It’s fun to see their reac- films on Oct. 26. Duclos won a $200 gift certifi- make more films, probably dark the middle of my cake.” tion.” “All the competition was shot cate from Apple Canada, a framed comedies. “Some of my favourite Duclos says she’s always had an on digital,” says Duclos, a second- certificate and a festival shirt. directors are Tim Burton, David interest in the supernatural. “I’ve year Broadcasting — Radio, Duclos says her interest in films Lynch and Alfred Hitchcock. My always been that way growing up. New Year's & Television and Film (BRTF) stu- dent. “Mine was the only one shot on film, so there was a bit of a dif- Spring Break ference.” The film is about a girl who loses the use of her legs and is in a PARTY TRIPS! wheelchair. She and her boyfriend 20,000 students partied with us last year! are struggling to deal with her Montreal from $229 paralysis when her boyfriend finds Quebec City from $229 a book on cannibalism. He discov- Daytona Beach $199 ers that if you eat the heart and from flesh of the deceased, you can gain Panama City Beach from $299 their powers. The couple then OFF FOR DECEMBER Acapulco from $1249 commits several murders, and as the girl consumes the body parts, To book, contact: she regains use of her legs. In the end, she is hit and killed by a car. 35$ & up Duclos, who made the film in 905.501.9774 or 1.800.465.4257 www.breakawaytours.com her first-year film class, says the RECEIVE Ont. Reg. #'s 2267878 & 2422707. Prices will vary depending on departure point. Above prices based on max. occupancy. Call for hotel, taxes and idea “just popped into my head.” transportation info. Terms and conditions available at time of booking. More than 14,000 booked already! Page 38, Niagara News, Dec 6, 2002 CIPS helping students market themselves By LESLIE Vanscoy, 31, of Niagara Falls, head Analyst program student, of chapter here. At these meetings you events for the near future includ- BRANCONNIER of the Computer Programmer and Welland. can speak to professionals in the ing a pizza party, for members to Staff Writer Computer Programmer Analyst Niagara College’s CIPS started business, hear about what CIPS is get to know the faculty running Students looking for ways to programs at Niagara College’s fresh this year in September. At doing and hear from guest speakers. CIPS and to discuss what CIPS is market themselves in the techno- Welland campus. last count there were 70 members, CIPS has other events to show doing. Chouinard said he is trying logical field should learn more CIPS is an international organi- said Chouinard. appreciation for their members and a to bring in some guest speakers about the Canadian Information zation, with several smaller You must have seven years time just for fellow CIPS members from the IT profession. Getting Processing Society (CIPS). branches; the nearest parent branch experience in the business and to get together and discuss business. more monthly functions for next A CIPS information pamphlet is in Hamilton. CIPS does have a have two years of college or uni- The CIPS meetings at the parent year is another goal. states, “The Information Systems small local group at Niagara versity in a program in the field, branch in Hamilton are held monthly. Elections for CIPS Niagara Professional designation, estab- College, with its own committee said Chouinard. “The main thing is to be College faculty will be held in lished by CIPS in 1989, is that reports to the Hamilton head- CIPS helps members with net- exposed first,” said Chouinard. March. Chouinard said he would Canada’s only independent certifi- quarters, said Vanscoy. working and with getting exposure Making connections with other be running for re-election. cation program for information Vanscoy is the faculty represen- to employers. CIPS members helps students to The CIPS office has study technology (IT) professionals.” tative for and head of Niagara You can meet people in the field, learn about new technologies and rooms and a lounge area where all Being a CIPS member tells pos- College’s CIPS, while the student IT professionals, said Chouinard. to gain insight into the profession- students are welcome, not just sible employers that you adhere to a president is Pierre Chouinard, a 31- CIPS has events at the parent alism of the business. CIPS students, said Vanscoy. It’s certain code of ethics, said Peter year-old. Computer Programmer chapter in Hamilton and the local Chouinard is planning several ME 207 at the Welland campus. YMCA, Niagara reap benefits By THOMAS CONNELL gram will have the opportunity to teams use. Also the new Y facility We wish you a safe Staff Writer hone their skills in the Y’s new will have two swimming pools. The benefits Niagara College high-tech facilities, in conjunction The merging of the respective will reap from its new partnership with YMCA staff. Working with resources of the college and the and Happy Holiday! with the YMCA go well beyond the community at large will bring YMCA will have a ripple effect that what can be measured in terms of them into contact with a broader can’t help but have a positive mere bricks and mortar, according cross-section of society than one impact on the surrounding commu- to President Dan Patterson. would typically find in a tradition- nity, including the volunteer sector. The Broadcasting Perhaps most important, in al post-secondary environment. The Niagara Centre for Patterson’s estimation, is the “The experience that students will Community Leadership is a col- Faculty and Staff opportunity to work concertedly get and be able to put on a resumé will lege-based organization that works with the Y on educational and stand them well in terms of future job to assist local volunteer organiza- community-based projects. opportunities, “ said Patterson. tions through consulting, research “We are entering into a long-term Although there are no specifics and skills development. sustainable partnership that will pro- in place yet regarding the Athletic The fact the YMCA is an inte- vide unique educational and work- Department, the college is working gral part of the local volunteer Get direct access to over 11,000 students at place opportunities for our students.” on possible linkages in terms of community, the possibilities for The Fitness Assessment and intramural programs. There will be co-operative endeavours are obvi- Niagara College and Brock University Health Promotion program, slated some obvious and immediate ben- ous. While there are no concrete Advertise in the official guidebook of: to start up in the fall of 2003, is an efits however, in terms of facilities plans in the works, Patterson says, example of this new symbiotic and equipment. The gymnasium “There is definitely the possibility relationship. Students enrolled in will be much larger and better of working collectively on joint the one-year post-graduate pro- equipped than the one Niagara projects.” Employers can meet students on campus on Tuesdays and tap into some: By LESLIE BRANCONNIER jobs in which they are interested. Students can bring resumés with Staff Writer This also allows them to speak to them, when meeting with employers. Employers in the Hall is an employers in a more casual manner. opportunity for students and employers to meet. For more information contact This is a new initiative allowing Look no further... Student Housing... Linda Camus, Advertising Manager (905) 735-2211 ext. 7748 employers to set up a table at any of Bright, spacious, clean, modern house – 70 Northwood Drive, the college’s three campuses, said on a quiet residential street. 10 min. walk to campus. Large Bea Clark, director of the Ventures bedrooms (6), kitchen and living areas, Two bathrooms. Division of Niagara College. Prefer males only. $400.00 per month, per person includes Every Tuesday between 11 a.m. utilities, laundry and parking. and 2 p.m. one employer may set up a table at any of the three campuses. Call Alisa at 905-734-8284. Some employers want to be able to meet with students in person, said Clark. There will be promotions for upcoming employers, a week prior to their arrival on campus. The Niagara Parks Commission will be coming to the Welland campus in January, said Clark. This will help students research Want Smooth Silky Skin? Enjoy a Safe and With just the flick of a wrist, you can have up to six weeks of Happy Holi silky smooth skin. day Our salon sugar product is Enjoy a safe Sea 100% natural and is safe for all so and wonderful n body parts. Get Salon Results At Home holiday season. If you drink, don’t drive To Order Call (905) 351-3787 Best wishes from (ask about our home parties) from Environment, “Every Woman Deserves To Be Sugar Smooth” Horticulture Niagara Regional www.sugarsmooth.com & Agri-Business Police Service Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002, Page 41 Grad gets ‘wealth of experience’ at fundraiser By ADAM CAMPBELL $3,000. It was the first time LaCourse was event co- Staff Writer ordinator. It’s more than a day in the park for Shawn LaCourse, Time, effort and countless hours of dealing with busi- 22, of Dain City, Ont., former event co-ordinator of the ness people for donations may seem like a lost cause or Canadian Mental Health Association’s (CMHA) Niagara a time to give up, but LaCourse says, “I would recom- Branch. mend working for an established non-profit organiza- In 2001, the 12th straight year of the event, the tion. Although the pay is minimal, the experience makes CMHA, which is solely funded by the United Way, held up for it.” its annual Day in the Park, on Aug. 18. LaCourse says he gained a “wealth of experience” and LaCourse became CMHA’s event co-ordinator partial- had a “wonderful time” with the CMHA. ly through the Niagara College Co-op department. “I highly doubt that I would consider working for the “The college did such a poor job at finding placements CMHA once I finish school. I think it’s time to try and for their students, that we had to go out and find our own move up in the workforce.” placements,” said LaCourse, who is a graduate of the LaCourse, who graduated from the program in June Business Administration — Marketing (Co-op) program and worked as a dock attendant at the Sugarloaf Harbour at the Glendale campus in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Marina in Port Colborne from May until October, says LaCourse is in the Special Event Management (Post- another year at Niagara is well worth the wait. graduate) program, also at the Glendale campus. “I just want to keep on improving my skills in all areas With just two years of marketing behind him at the revolving around business.” time, LaCourse was able to find a number of businesses While working at the marina, LaCourse welcomed the to donate items for the Day in the Park event, such as opportunity of doing a bit of “grunt work” to move ahead barbecues, food, hula hoops for the 1950s theme hula in his future career. hoop contest, and a public address system. He also had “Obviously the position helped me get my foot in the local radio station CHSC 1220’s Rockin’ Robin broad- door with the city. That summer position led to me land- casting live on location throughout the afternoon. ing a co-op with the City of Port Colborne for my Asked about the knowledge of marketing and planning Special Event Management (Post-graduate) program,” he needed going into this event, LaCourse said, “The says LaCourse. Shawn LaCourse, 22, of Dain City, Ont., is the former event whole process was mostly trial and error, with it being Busy as always, LaCourse is helping organize and co- something I’ve never done before.” ordinate the Tim Hortons Sportsfest Snow Volleyball co-ordinator of the Canadian Mental Health Association’s It was one of the more successful Day in the Park tournament, a National Hockey League banquet and a Niagara Branch. events in its 12-year history, bringing in more than Trivia Night. Photo by Adam Campbell Halloween Challenge raised money for the United Way

We remember Halloween at the Welland campus. From top left, clockwise: Continuing Education department staff dressed as con- struction workers. Betty Ann Chandler, United Way cam- paign chair, holds the Halloween Challenge trophy. Staff in the Counselling department dressed as British Tacky Tea Party, while the Learning Resource Centre staff dressed as Robin Hood and the Merry Men.

Photos by Meaghan Hutton Page 42, Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002 Curiosity outweighs love in sex survey

By CARISSA PERTSCHY unintended pregnancies with the “Usually other things are miss- the importance of condoms and with a new partner. For the youth Staff Writer use of a condom,” says Martyn. ing in a youth’s life,” if they are condom use. When it comes to that wait longer than a week, 15 What’s love got to do with it? “Don’t fool yourself thinking you having sex at a young age. “We using condoms, the practice isn’t per cent say they would have sex A recent survey revealed curiosi- know you’re safe. Use condoms shouldn’t be freaked about them entirely in sync with what they with a new partner within the first ty outweighs love when it comes to whenever you’re with someone.” having sex; we should be looking intend, so that’s worrisome,” says month of their first meeting. one’s first sexual experience. One The survey results show at what they don’t have. It’s not Martyn. “From the work I do, I know the third, or 37 per cent, of the people Canadian youth are losing their just the parents’ fault. attitude comes from people who surveyed in Durex’s 2002 Canadian virginity earlier than in previous Governments and institutions need fool themselves. They think they Sex Survey On Youth say they had generations. One third, or 38 per to give help and encouragement to ‘Having condoms know who they are sleeping with their first sexual relationship cent, of the youth surveyed say youth, and it needs to start when and are free from sexually trans- because they were curious. they experienced their first sexual kids are young,” she says. available widely, mitted infections,” says Martyn. Only one in four people, or 29 relationship when they were Seventy-six per cent of the cheaply and free Durex is the world’s leading per cent, surveyed say they were in between the ages of 15 and 17. youth surveyed believe it’s not condom brand and suppliers of love the first time they were in a Close to half the females surveyed, acceptable to engage in sex with a will help.’ Durex, Shiek and Ramses con- sexual relationship. 42 per cent, had their first sexual new partner without using a con- doms. The Durex Web site, “The results of the survey give a relationship between the ages of dom. “While the message about — Kim Martyn http://www.durex.com, has a list snapshot of a particular group for 15 and 17, which is significantly the importance of using a condom of available types of condoms, specific issues,” says Kim Martyn, lower than males. Only one in four is getting out to youth, it does not which come in many different sexual health educator and males, or 25 per cent, had their always translate into safer sex In Ontario, 37 per cent, one- shapes, sizes, colours and styles, Canadian spokesperson for Durex. first sexual relationship between actually being practiced.” third, of the youth surveyed report- “encouraging people to try differ- “The findings suggest that the ages of 15 and 17. “There is a false sense of securi- ed they had sex once a week, while ent kinds,” says Martyn. Canadian youth often act on their “So much has to do with good ty,” she says. “Having condoms 35 per cent of Ontario youth had The data collected from 2,000 curiosity when it comes to sex, education and honest discussion at available widely, cheaply and free sex two to three times a month. people by Decima Research in an reinforcing the need to continue to home,” says Martyn, adding, will help. Two per cent of Ontario’s youth online panel are accurate within educate them about the importance “Many parents are uncomfortable “The results of the survey are reported that within the first week +/- 6.4 percentage points 95 times of protecting themselves against talking about sex and either lecture consistent with other research that of meeting someone it is long out of 100, at the 95 per cent con- sexually transmitted diseases and or are silent; neither help.” finds youth continue to understand enough to wait before having sex fidence interval. Drive, just drive. Don’t eat, phone, groom or read.

By AMY CONTOIS good idea,” says Tim Danter, new sions, you need to know what is ver at his or her home, or at anoth- appointment. Staff Writer general manager of Young Drivers going on 360 degrees around your er designated area, to begin the A study done at the University With the growing importance of in the Niagara Region. vehicle at all times. You need to evaluation. The evaluation is not of North Carolina states that driver time management, people often try For the first time Young Drivers control traffic around you and to for points, meaning a person’s distraction is the cause of 20 to 30 to do too many things at once. will be offering free driving evalu- maintain an escape route at all license won’t be suspended. It’s an per cent of all collisions. Driving while eating, talking on ations to the public as part of the times.” opportunity to improve or refresh A ranking of distractions a phone, applying makeup or read- initiative. It will offer an opportu- During Safe Driving Week, your driving skills. revealed that adjusting the radio ing, are some of the most danger- nity for drivers to see if any of licensed citizens who wish to take The evaluation will measure accounted for 11.4 per cent of ous activities people do. their habits could lead to an acci- the driving evaluation are encour- three aspects of the person’s dri- accidents, engaging in conversa- Young Drivers of Canada is dent. aged to call Young Drivers to ving capabilities: defensive ability, tion with other passengers emphasizing the importance of Peter Christianson, president of schedule an appointment. In the rules of driving and vehicle han- accounted for 10.9 per cent, eat- safe driving by declaring Dec. 1 to Young Drivers, stated, in a press case of conflicting schedules, dling. ing or drinking caused 1.7 per Dec. 7 Safe Driving Week. release, that on a daily basis, “dri- Young Drivers would be willing to All licensed drivers are eligible. cent of all collisions and talking “Anything that we can do to ving is the most dangerous activity schedule an appointment for the If you are interested in participat- on a cell phone caused 1.5 raise awareness of keeping the we are involved in.” week following Dec. 7. ing in the driver evaluation, call per cent of distraction-related roads safe in our community is a “In order to keep out of colli- An instructor will meet the dri- 905-680-6220 to schedule an accidents. Student declared winner in college writing contest

By LESLIE BRANCONNIER Rogers said, “It talks about created was the Nelson Writing Prize winner with Staff Writer Dave Kendell license English written on the Internet, that her essay, Pete. The nominating instructor We have a winner! people don’t follow the same rules as in nor- was Steve Roe. A Niagara College student is the winner Winner mal writing.” As the winner, Baxter will receive $500 of the Call Magazine College Writing Kendell said he was surprised that the and a collection of Nelson titles. Contest, and runner-up nationwide for the nominated the essay. The piece was origi- essay made it as far as it did. Kendell, as a runner-up, will receive a first annual Nelson Writing Prize. nally part of a class assignment. “I’m definitely pleased with the out- collection of Nelson titles. Dave Kendell, 21, of Port Colborne, is Kendell exemplifies a lot of traits, includ- come,” said Kendell. There were 42 entries from across the in the Computer Programmer Analyst ing being friendly, kindly, intelligent and It has been getting a lot of publicity and country. program. well liked, he added. will be featured in a textbook next year. One “I have a few other ideas. The Internet Kendell’s essay, Language for a New The essay is about how the Internet is teacher has already used it in class, said isn’t as good as people think. This is the Age, will be featured in a Pearson Education breaking down the English language, said Kendell. first in, hopefully, a series, on the textbook sometime next year. Kendell. Kendell’s essay was about 950 words in Internet,” said Kendell. He wrote a “clever, interesting, very topi- “It’s been a concern of mine for a little length. The essays were to be from 500 to The essay is posted on the Call cal” essay, said Dr. Douglas B. Rogers, an while,” said Kendell, “in chat rooms, and e- 1,000 words. Magazine Web site http://www.call- English professor at Niagara College, who mail, seeing the use of slang terms.” Colleen Baxter, of North Island College, magazine.com. Fine line between drunkenness, alcohol poisoning. Niagara students don’t know it.

By KATHRYN HANLEY thought there was one question describing Staff Writer ‘... students didn’t know alcohol poisoning. It actually ended up Niagara College students have scored describing the sensations of being drunk. I low when it comes to their knowledge of the difference from think this is kind of disturbing.” alcohol. Hanes is referring to question five, which A survey done by Niagara College being drunk and having reads like this: “Symptoms of acute alcohol Student Administrative Council (SAC) poisoning include impaired attention, shows some surprising results, says alcohol poisoning.’ reduced muscle control, slowed reflexes, Andrew Hanes, SAC president at the staggering gait, slurred speech and double Welland campus. — Andrew Hanes vision.” Only 10 per cent of the students “We took a survey on Alcohol Awareness surveyed got the answer correct. Day. We gave it out to 217 students. A lot of questions, with students scoring an average Question one, which asked if alcohol is a them came into the pub; a lot of them were of 67 per cent. stimulant drug, received a low 54 per cent from the main building as well,” says “One of the biggest things that I found, correct score. It appears that almost half of says Hanes. Hanes. and it kind of scared me, was students did- the student population is misled and thinks On the up side, 98 per cent of students Alcohol Awareness Day was held on Oct. n’t know the difference between being that alcohol may be uplifting. realized that alcohol could be lethal under 22. The survey included 10 true or false drunk and having alcohol poisoning. They “I think that students need to know more,” extreme intoxication. Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002, Page 43 College to upgrade computer technology By DONNA DURIC of copper cabling at the college dents may be able to pay for their and students are encouraged to check grams, since there are 1.4 million Staff Writer must be replaced every three tuition, register for programs, and back often. grades stored on staff computers. “Niagara College has a good years. drop and add courses, all on the “As a techie, I like to take away “We have some honkin’ report card on technology,” says Weldon says she and her 17- Web, by next December. the (use of) paper whenever I can,” servers,” says Weldon. Beth Weldon, chief information member staff want to “refresh” the PeopleSoft is a $2.3-million soft- says Weldon. The college has a $2 million officer for the college, at the Board labs and staff computers, as well ware program that deals with finan- The college Web site, which has yearly operating budget for tech- of Governors’ meeting on Nov. 14. as thousands of software pro- cial records, academic records and 41,417 pages on it, is viewed by peo- nology, with $600,000 of that con- “We’re sitting really well (com- grams. administrative functions. ple in 60 countries, with Japan being tributed by the Student pared with other colleges).” “It’s a continuous cycle,” she “It will be cost saving for the col- the second-highest requester after Technology Enhancement However, she says the college’s says. “As you upgrade software, lege. There’s no question,” says Canada. Committee (STEC) fee. The STEC computers and networks “need you must upgrade hardware.” Weldon, adding that “it’s clear that In 2001, 1,595 students were fee comes out of students’ tuition development” and “refreshing.” The college has 575 staff com- students are using the Web.” taking an on-line course, and this and helps pay for the Student Computers and cabling usually puters, 1,400 student computers, This Christmas, the college will year, there are 1,719. Weldon says Open Access Lab’s $100,000 a run a three-year cycle before being and 270 leased or purchased lap- not be mailing grades and timetables the college administration hopes year Internet cost. tossed out in favour of new tech- tops, used by students in the tech- to students, who will be able to that by 2003, there will be 2,250 “We’ve purchased wisely and nology. Niagara College has been nology programs. check their timetables on the col- students taking on-line courses. we manage it (the budget) well,” running a five-year cycle with Weldon says she wants to lege’s Web site by Dec. 6, although Weldon also wants to upgrade says Weldon. “We want to be able computers, yet the 270 kilometres upgrade PeopleSoft so that stu- they might not be complete by then the administrative software pro- to maintain that role.” Native polytechnic institute to open after Christmas By E. J. GOODER the new facility. Staff Writer Bomberry, a Mohawk of the Six Six Nations Polytechnic Inc. in Nations of the Grand River Oshweken is taking a giant step reserve, says an agreement with into the future for its students and Imperial Oil was finalized, and a the aboriginal community with the pre-technology program was construction of a new post-sec- added to the curriculum. The firm ondary facility on the Six Nations will eventually employ graduates of the Grand River near Brantford from the native community. Ont.. He says the polytechnic has The Jan. 24, 2003, grand open- been “doing all right” with just ing celebration of the polytechnic students from the reserve attend- institute will include a ribbon-cut- ing the programs, but the aborigi- ting ceremony from 1 p.m. to 4 nal population is starting to apply p.m. and building tours from 9 from everywhere, including appli- a.m. to 5 p.m. cations from the United States. Students and staff will be He wants to see a stronger rela- attending classes in the new build- tionship, Bomberry says, with the Construction is in its final stages of the new Six Nations Polytechnic Inc. on the Six Nations reserve ing when they return after the colleges and universities they have near Brantford. Christmas break. partnerships with, such as Wilfrid Photo by E.J. Gooder Arnie Bomberry, 30, polytech- Laurier University in Kitchener- in conjunction with McMaster versity access program was tional system and this is a “great nic registrar, says that a “generous Waterloo and Niagara College, University in Hamilton. formed with Niagara College in way of getting back into educa- grant and loan” from the Six and more in-house programs. He Gayle Lafleur, manager of the 1993. It has graduated more than tional process. Honestly, I love it.” Nations Council and Casino Rama would also “like” to see a dual Niagara College Aboriginal 200 students. The program con- The smiling, dark-haired funds assisted in the building of institute of naturopathic medicine Education Access Office, Welland sists of the first year of university woman says she is setting a “good campus, says Six Nations or college, so the native student example” for her children not only Polytechnic and Niagara College will feel secure and ready to blend about the importance of a post- are in a joint partnership. Six easily into the mainstream of acad- secondary education, but also find- Nations Polytechnic delivers the emia. ing out about her heritage. programs and the college gives the The bottom line, Statts says, is She says she makes the more credits earned by the students in to provide the means for the abo- than 30-kilometre drive from each program. riginal student to gain “confi- Hamilton every day and when she The polytechnic provides such dence, self-esteem and skills to be has accomplished her dream of programs as Early Childhood successful.” being a medical doctor she will Education, Education Assistant— Student Valerie White, 27, of apply those skills in her “native Special Needs and Paramedic. Hamilton, is in her first year of the community.” Linda Statts, chief executive Native University program and For more information call 519- Classes at Six Nations Polytechnic Inc. are held in these officer since the conception of Six she eventually wants to be a med- 445-0023, e-mail learn@snpoly- portables. Nations Polytechnic 10 years ago, ical doctor. White, a Mohawk, technic.com or go to Photo by E.J. Gooder says a partnership to create a uni- says she has been out of the educa- http://www.snpolytechnic.com. Local grade school children participated in patrol training with NRP By SHARI HADGRAFT schools that sign up,” Whittle said. fil their duties as a school patroller legs out the windows, they help in Evkovich said a fire extin- Staff Writer The students go through five or a bus patroller, then the school any emergency situation that guisher is mandatory equipment About 305 students were “hand- stations throughout the training has the option of sending them to might arise like emergency evacu- on a school bus so the fire picked” to take part in the sixth day. The stations include bus pro- Marineland for a day in the ation, that kind of thing,” he said. department had to provide some annual School Patroller Training tocol behaviour, bus practical spring.” Sherwin said the NRP have training “They have to learn how Day held at the Exhibition evacuation, St. John Ambulance John Sherwin, 42, marketing always been “very supportive” of to use it in case they have to use Grounds in Welland on Sept. 26. first aid, Welland Fire Department and public relations manager of this training event. “We work very it.” Seventeen elementary schools and CAA school patrol. CAA Niagara, said he’s been closely together and make sure we Evkovich said they have a limit- took part in this training program “They’re teaching kids how to putting on this training day in the are teaching the same lessons.” ed number of fire extinguishers to to teach students in Grades 5 and 6 emergency evacuate a bus,” Niagara region for seven years. Sherwin said he thinks CAA has use during the event but try to what emergency situations might Whittle explains. “They’re teach- CAA provides the orange fluo- an important role in this event. “I maximize the number of children occur on a school bus and how to ing the kids proper bus protocol, rescent vests the children wear and think it’s real important to learn taught. resolve them. basically behaviour on the bus, distributes safety handbooks to safety rules. David Katch, 50, an instructor Constable Tim Whittle, 47, of What to do and what not to do. every participating student. The And, unfortunately, automobile with St. John Ambulance at the the Niagara Regional Police The fire department is teaching $500 cost for lunch and fire extin- collisions continue to be the lead- Welland branch, was at the train- Service (NRP), was the co-ordina- them how to put out different guishers was funded by the organi- ing cause of death and injury ing event teaching basic first aid. tor of the annual School Patroller types of fires and the big thing, zation. among children six to 14 years Katch has been participating in Training Day event with the how you properly use a fire extin- Students who show a leadership old, so as the largest automobile the event for four years teaching Canadian Automobile Association guisher, and the children get the role at school are handpicked by association in Canada, we feel that children safety procedures. (CAA) of Niagara. chance to actually use a fire extin- the teachers to take part in this responsibility to take part.” “If something should happen on “We’ve been partners with CAA guisher.” training day, Sherwin said. Dan Evkovich, 53, a fire pre- the bus, where the bus is involved since 1975; however, this event is Whittle said CAA funds this “The bus patrollers work with vention officer with the Welland in an accident, what can they (the our sixth annual Patroller Training event by paying for the lunch and the bus driver to make sure the Fire Department, has been students) do to help out with the Day. Instead of going around to all a trip to Marineland in Niagara children get on and off safely, that involved in the annual School various emergencies that could the schools, we bring all the Falls. “Once they do this, they go the children are quiet on the bus, Patroller Training Day for about arise.” schools to us or as many of the back to the schools and if they ful- they’re not sticking their arms and five or six years. Page 44, Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002 Students’ computer projects help others

By LESLIE BRANCONNIER projects for Bethesda, Infuria, and his group are working for the classrooms and available resources Staff Writer Molson Canadian Brewing Co., Counselling Services Department at all in one place, said Ritches. Niagara College student com- Bell Canada, Niagara Aero Space Niagara College’s Welland campus. “We’ve come up with some ideas puter analysts have begun projects and the Niagara Marine Secretariat, The group has had a few meet- and dealt with some security aspects,” to help others in the community as with some projects continuing from ings and is analyzing what their and made some initial plans. part of their training. one year to the next. client wants. Once the intranet program is Sixth-term students in the Some programs produced in the “We’re striving to give them complete, “we hope that staff Computer Programmer Analyst past by students in this program exactly what they want,” Saxon members use it and enjoy it,” program are designing computer are still being used, said Baddeley. said. “We want to make the best Ritches said. programs, setting up databases and “It’s a win-win situation for the program we can because it’s being Roxane Mattetall, 30, of St. intranet programs. These are being students and the company.” It’s graded. It’s going well. Work is Catharines, is in a group creating a designed to suit the specifications free for the company, as “they only only as fun as you make it.” program for Bethesda, a non-prof- of the clients. have to spend their time helping John Ritches, 20, of St. it organization working with the Students began work on these students. It’s a great experience, Catharines, and his group are disabled. projects in the summer and will reference, and really helps with working on an intranet program Mattetall’s group has done some continue until December, when the job placements. Faculty is always for Niagara College staff. initial research. Their goal is to final presentations are planned, looking for really good projects Andrew Saxon, a Computer The program is to provide staff create a database for their client, to said Marsha Baddeley, professor for the students. They are looking Programmer Analyst student with a place that they can quickly go make its inventory job easier. in the Computer Programmer to get into wireless,” said prepares to start work on his to and look up information such as “We would like the program to Analyst program. Baddeley. project. having news, upcoming events and be used by outside people enjoy- Students in the past have done Andrew Saxon, 21, of Welland, Photo by Leslie Branconnier background information on students, ing the final product.” Learning English step in international student’s goal

By MARIAN ORLEANS cation and career as a businessman. His tuition fee at Niagara is Bhargey said he came to Canada ognizes it and it has “a highly Staff Writer Bhargey said he did a two-year $3,600 a semester. His parents live to study because he heard the qualified educational staff, a clean English as a Second Language program in Web Designing in India. in India and pay his tuition. country has a clean environment cafeteria and lots of school facili- (ESL) is the main course for all inter- He said he doesn’t like taking and it’s developed. “I thought if I ties” for students. “The college has national students in their first semes- ESL because he had taken it in stayed in India and continued my many international students as ter at Niagara College. For Patel To get an English India. He said he’s going to take education, I wouldn’t get a better well as Canadian students.” Bhargey, it’s a step towards his goal. ESL for a semester and then regis- education and have a better life Bhargey is one of the interna- Bhargey, 19, from India, lives in proficiency ter for Business – Accounting (Co- because of the country’s high pop- tional students involved in the col- St. Catharines and is a first-year op) program in his second semester. ulation density.” lege’s conversation partnering pro- international student at the col- certificate, he will To get an English proficiency He said he wants to work in gram. It is organized for Canadian lege’s Welland campus. He said certificate, he will be taking the Canada, if the government allows. and international students at he’s glad to be an international stu- be taking the Test Test of English as a Foreign “If the government permits me to Niagara to help them get to know dent because he has free use of Language, in Toronto. work here, I’ll do it,” said about each other’s country and to school facilities, such as the of English as a As he works towards that, he Bhargey. “I want to work in a well- practice their new language. library and the open access lab for Foreign Language, said the teachers are very nice and established company or start my “The program benefits me a lot. It school course work. very helpful. Asked about his own business.” helps improve my English Language He said he came to the college in Toronto. classmates, Bhargey said they are Bhargey said he likes the col- skills, know about the Canadian cul- because he wants to have a better edu- “very co-operative.” lege because the government rec- ture, politics and many more. Student says Computer Engineering Technology ‘great’ career choice

By MARIAN ORLEANS 16 months of co-op and he’s now “The educational system in dents in the Computer Engineering al situations between India and Staff Writer on a vacation in Pakistan. He says Pakistan is also good, but teachers (Co-op) program are being paid for Pakistan. He says he doesn’t feel A student in Computer he will return to Niagara to gradu- are not as helpful as teachers here. completing 800 hours of co-op they the two countries should be fight- Engineering Technology (Co-op) ate this year. It’s hard getting a job after a per- must have before they graduate. ing over a piece of land, Kashmir. program says it’s a “great” choice “I decided to come here after I son graduates because of the pop- “Ali is doing well in his co-op. “I totally blame the Indian gov- for a career path. heard the college is the second ulation growth,” says Ali. He repairs and services all equip- ernment and not the people of Mohammad Tariq Ali, 20, is a best school for studying electron- Ali is doing his co-op at the col- ment,” says Gould. “Ali and his India and Pakistan. The govern- second-year student at Niagara ics in Ontario.” lege in the technology depart- brother have been involved in the ment should know Kashmir is just College’s Welland campus, in the He says he has gained experience ment.” I design digital printers and designing of electronic equipment. a land and for them to be fighting three-year co-op program. in building circuits and troubleshoot- do troubleshooting if there is a They’ve developed a brand new over the land, it’s not good in the Ali is an international student ing during his past year at the college problem on a circuit. I’m planning trainer in the cabling of a commu- sight of God.” from Pakistan who lives in and he’s still learning new things to work in a company which nication system. I don’t think they “I think both countries should Welland. He says he chose to every day in order to gain experi- makes electronic components.” will find any difficulty getting a put their religious differences aside study here because his brother, enced and competence in electronics. Ali says he plans to work in job after they graduate.” and be in unity,” says Ali. “India Mohammad Ali, is a student here He says the students’ and teach- Canada after he graduates. As a citizen of Pakistan, Ali says and Pakistan are neighbours. They and he recommended Niagara to ers’ relationship at the college is David Gould, senior engineering he’s concerned about the political shouldn’t be in disagreement over him. His brother is in the same “very good,” compared with that electronic technologist and supervi- issues going on in the country. He a land that is divided (partly Islam program. Ali says his brother did in Pakistan. sor for co-op students, says all stu- opposes the current confrontation- and partly Hindu).” Award-winning romance writer credits Niagara professor with helping her

By SARA CAMPBELL final round before going on to win Harlen said the Romance Writers romance writing, were taught by “I am flattered by her compliment Staff Writer the top award. She was notified last of America is the second contest she Professor Tom Torrance. and very proud of her work,” said A former Niagara College stu- March that she had been named a has entered, the first being the Heart “He is a wonderful teacher. He Torrance. “It’s always great to see a dent and Welland resident is cred- finalist in the long contemporary of the Rockies, in which she received helped me focus on my writing, student make those accomplishments.” iting her professor with helping category. Two weeks before the cer- honourable mention. She added the and that was instrumental for me While Harlen was taking her become an award-winning emony, Harlen was advised by one Golden Heart Awards are one of the to follow my career,” said Harlen. Torrance’s romance writing course romance writer. of the final-round judges that book “biggest contests” that will bring an Harlen continued to take the in 1998, she said she finished writ- Author Brenda Harlen, of publisher Silhouette Intimate author the most recognition. program’s courses in 1999 when ing her first book. She has since Hamilton, was recognized for her Moments wanted to buy her book. In 1998, Harlen pursued her life- she followed the romance writing written six novels that, she said, are book From This Moment, which “I was stunned,” said Harlen of long interest in writing when she course with grammar and poetry. in a style of “romantic-suspense.” was named best long contempo- how she reacted when she learned put her family law practice in She took courses of Torrance’s at Her fifth manuscript was her rary romance at the Romance of her nomination. “The competi- Welland on hold to start a family Mohawk College in Hamilton Golden Heart winning entry and Writers of America’s Golden Heart tion was tight too. Three of the six and enrol in Niagara College’s when she moved there in 2000. she is working on book number 7. Awards Ceremony held in Denver, authors learned beforehand that Professional Writers’ Certificate “Brenda was an excellent and Harlen’s best long contemporary Colo., in July. their books have been purchased, program, part of the Continuing enthusiastic student,” said Torrance. romance novel will be re-titled and Harlen was among six authors but I was very surprised to have Education department. Eight of the “I encouraged her with an open mind released as McIver’s Mission by from a field of 62 to advance to the received the award.” courses in the program, including to follow her goal as a writer.” Silhouette Moments in May 2003. Niagara News, Dec. 6, 2002, Page 45 First-year student dedicated to helping children

By SHARI HADGRAFT few of the teachers have come to all but one of her teachers is male, Last summer she had another history. “I regret relationships that Staff Writer the end of their careers and they she said. part-time job as well being a camp could have happened, letting A first-year student in the Child really should be gone by now. I’ve If given the chance to try a new counsellor. “I loved it. It was a dif- things fall apart and letting friend- and Youth Worker program said noticed a few things that I did not program at the college, she said ferent group of kids and they were ships float away. Even though I she feels “obligated” to help chil- approve of, for example, centring she would have picked the from a welfare government-spon- consider friends so important, I’ve dren because of her own childhood people out and making them cry.” Journalism-Print program. “I con- sored housing complex. They were let so many friendships fall apart. experiences. Currently, McCormack said she sider myself a pretty decent writer. pretty rough kids. There were a “I definitely have to learn to Jenna McCormack, 18, of feels the professors are focusing I don’t have all the skills but I need couple of white kids but mostly take things a little more seriously Burlington, has always been more on issues that they won’t use (a program) with humour and Spanish, African American, East because laughing is my response blessed with a strong family. out in the workplace. something that you can kind of Indian and Muslim. It was interest- to anything, even if I’m upset or “I’ve had a really good child- “I really think we need to have a play with. I think the program I’m ing.” happy or even nervous.” hood. I didn’t have any issues or jam session if you will, with (the in now is a little heavy.” She said the one thing she She said her family is one of the anything so I think that I’m kind of students) being able to ask ques- When free time comes up, she regrets in life is her relationship most important aspects in her life. obligated to help kids who haven’t.” tions like ‘what is a child and jokingly said, “I have a part-time “I’ve had some of my best times As for the program, youth worker?’ job which I kind of consider a with them. We’re all alike. I’m a McCormack said, “I feel that I’m “It seems like a lot of the class- hobby because I’m never there.” daddy’s girl, totally.” not getting the gist of it. It feels es overlap so I can’t differentiate McCormack is a sales associate McCormack said when her like I’m missing something, like I between them.” for one of the Zeller’s stores in three-year program is finished, she don’t know exactly what we’re Professors have also put the Burlington for the last three years. hopes to get a job that is “definite- going to do. We (McCormack and pressure on about finding a job out “I started off as a cashier and ly more hands-on than just sitting her classmates) sit through all of the program. McCormack said then because of my personality in in an office.” these lectures and all these classes, that it has been suggested to her customer service skills, I was “I’m really looking forward to but I don’t know what a child and class that males have a better transferred to the service desk so I the placement we’re going to have youth worker is yet and I think I chance at seeking employment out could listen to people b****h for to do. I think that will really be the should by now, being three months of her program. two hours. deciding factor of whether it’s into it.” Her program is more female “I’m a receptacle for all the cus- right for me or not,” she said, McCormack said she is “not dominated considering there are tomers’ complaints and unhappi- referring to her placement that her impressed” with a couple of pro- only five or six males in the class, ness. I’ve kind of got desensitized class is participating in during the fessors in her program. “I feel a which is “kind of a twist,” because to any kind of criticism.” JENNA MCCORMACK third term at the college. Foreign student praises Canada’s reputation

By DONNA DURIC English-speaking countries School. The family treated him as of internal affairs on the MMC writing poems, short stories and Staff Writer because of its reputation in Brazil. one of their own, making his meals Student Administrative Council screenplays, and playing tennis Marcos Schmidt, 20, of “It’s really famous out there for and giving him spending money (SAC), as well as the elected stu- and soccer, although he doesn’t Chippawa, Ont., is a former for- quality of life and safety.” when he needed it. While Schmidt dent representative for the Board play as much soccer here as he did eign exchange student who says During his one-year stay, he was living in Canada, his family of Governors. He says the main in Brazil. Canada is a “beautiful” country. boarded with a family in Welland took on a foreign student in his reason he decided to run for SAC “In Brazil, people usually do “I love it here. I think it’s a great and attended Centennial High hometown in Brazil. was “to get more student involve- more outdoor activities. Here, peo- country. People in Canada are very His parents paid for his initial ment,” and to represent the inter- ple are much more competitive (in honest, good to deal with, work plane ticket and the Rotary Club national student population at the the workplace).” and (have) fun with.” paid for his living expenses, as college, since he does “a lot” of When Schmidt graduates from Schmidt is a second-year stu- well as organized events for him work with the college’s interna- his program in April, he says he is dent in the Hotel and Restaurant and other foreign students to par- tional department. unsure if he wants to take a post- Management program at the Maid ticipate in while they stayed in Schmidt says he enjoys working graduate program next year. of the Mist Centre (MMC) campus Canada. with SAC. Eventually, he wants to run a hotel. in Niagara Falls. Schmidt has been back home “It’s been great. I think we have an Schmidt says he is pleased with He grew up in Florianopolis, once, for three weeks this past sum- excellent team. We’ve made a lot of Niagara College and its work with Brazil, and decided to come to mer. He toured five cities while he progress (and) done a lot of good international students. Canada in August 1999 through was there, including Rio de Janeiro, things that didn’t happen last year.” “Niagara College is a very the Rotary Club International stu- giving lectures to high school, col- Some of Schmidt’s hobbies dynamic and progressive college dent exchange program. He says lege and university crowds. include playing the piano, writing and I really like how much empha- he wanted to learn English, and Schmidt is active in student life. his own music, singing, listening sis they’re putting on international chose Canada instead of other MARCOS SCHMIDT He is the acclaimed vice-president to alternative or psychedelic rock, development. Students find funding their education a stressful challenge

By DONNA DURIC of wearing down now.” but it doesn’t happen too often.” with customers on building pro- “My parents, unfortunately, Staff Writer He says that working while Werner says he’s up until mid- jects. It is a physical job, involv- haven’t had the luxury of helping Some students are lucky enough attending school has cut into his night or 1 a.m. every night. ing driving forklifts, carrying me out,” he says. to have their parents pay for their study time, from eight hours per “I’m dozing off in class some- drywall and lifting bags of con- Coxworthy made $1,500 a month education and other school-related exam last year, to three or four this times.” crete weighing between 50 and working as a camera operator at the living expenses. For others, the year, and into his social life. He has advice for handling the 100 pounds each. Fort Erie Race Track for the TV stress of funding their education “I get the odd chance to go out, pressures of working while attend- He says he must work to show, The Score, on Headline themselves is a challenge. ing college:”You have to be really finance his car and cover gas and Sports, and as a food cart server at Dean Werner, 24, of Welland, ‘I lose track of organized. That’s one of my insurance and to pay for food and Delta Bingo in St. Catharines. a second-year student in the biggest assets.” other bills. Coxworthy recently finished Police Foundations program, time, what day it Another student, Neil Kostecki, He lives at home with his par- working at the Fort Erie Race Track. works 20 hours a week as a sales 20, of Grimsby, a second-year stu- ents and says he likes to help out. While at both jobs, Coxworthy associate at Payless Shoes. He is, what I’m sup- dent in the Broadcasting — Radio, A student line of credit paid for his worked 35 to 40 hours a week, in says he must work to help pay Television and Film (BRTF) pro- tuition. addition to his 40 hours of classes tuition and bills, buy food and posed to be doing. gram, says he’s not organized. Kostecki says he’s “learned plus assignments, often sleeping pay his $660 monthly rent. He “I lose track of time, what day it responsibility” and that “you gotta only three hours a night. shares an apartment with his I get to the point is, what I’m supposed to be doing. do what you gotta do.” “I had no time to myself,” he girlfriend, who also contributes I get to the point where my mind Ryan Coxworthy, 21, of St. says. “It’s draining, but I don’t get to the household expenses. where my mind turns to mush.” Catharines, a third-year student in too emotional because everything Werner received about $7,000 Kostecki works at Home the BRTF program, had to work will get done. from the Ontario Student turns to mush.’ Depot, between 20 and 40 hours two jobs to put himself through “It’s all about the time manage- Assistance Program in a week, as a lumber and building school without any help from ment.” September, but says that “it’s kind — Neil Kostecki materials associate, consulting loans or other funding sources.

Who trains your child’s school patroller? Read Shari Hadgraft’s report exclusively in Niagara News Online this week.