THE COMMUNITY PAPER OF NIAGARA COLLEGE FREE January 21, 2011 Vol 41 • Issue 7 Welland Transit stays the course Plans to eliminate route from St. Catharines to Welland campus fall through By STEPHANIE AZEVEDO SAC budget for student transit and SARAH FERGUSON about $1.1 million. Staff Writers Brock University’s budget for As of Jan. 3, you may have busing is “almost $2 million,” noticed a change in your transit says Prins, adding “$98,000 of it system. goes to funding eight bus runs to Rumours of the St. Catharines [Niagara College in] Welland.” downtown terminal to Welland “This year we were really over campus bus service being can- budget,” says Costantini. He add- celled were true, but plans to can- ed that SAC was not intending to cel the route fell through because change the transit system to save of contract issues with Brock money, although there would have University, according to Student been some savings. Administrative Council (SAC) “Welland’s cost-per-hour is a President Brian Costantini. little less [than the St. Catharines The original plan would have Transit].” had students catching the bus to The extra bit of money saved the Welland campus from Brock would have helped to alleviate the University. The buses are provided growing deficit in SAC’s transit by the Welland Transit system. budget. In place of the St. Catharines “We had to increase the UPASS route, the Welland Transit to Brock fee $1 per semester. Over the last schedule was to change, providing few years, the transit companies better coverage (almost one bus per had been increasing their fees five hour to 6 p.m.) for St. Catharines per cent.” and Thorold students. This would The current cost of a student have been similar to the Welland UPASS is $66 a semester for Transit schedule students had last Niagara College students while year, before it was altered. Brock University students pay $80 In order to provide better cover- a semester. age for the students from Thorold Costantini says if students have or for Niagara College students concerns with the transit system, heading to the student housing on they should let him know about it. Glenridge, two additional buses “If it is not brought to my at- have been added to the Welland to tention, there is nothing I can do Brock route, one leaving Niagara about it.” College at 9:27 a.m. and another Costantini had to deal with bus leaving at 10:27 a.m. schedules at the beginning of his Costantini says that SAC was semester and “had to put up with terminating the Welland campus one or two runs in the summer.” contract with St. Catharines Tran- Because of this experience, he says sit because of complaints from he knows the difficulties of dealing both Brock University and Niagara with the buses. College Welland campus students He says when there are issues about gaps in transit coverage, with space on the bus, such as when some of them up to three hours students are left behind to wait for long. another bus because the current one “It’s the age-old tale of you’ve is full, they should call him. got it and you’d hate to lose it,” “If you are experiencing difficul- says Sebastian Prins, vice-presi- ties, call us up, because it might Niagara College students arrive at the Welland campus aboard the Welland–St. Catharines Connection. dent of finance administration for be a miscommunication.” He also Photo by John Gamba Brock University Students’ Union says in the past he has had those (BUSU), adding, “Students had a have with the service, such as gaps on-the-Lake campus transit that similar times were creating these students who were left behind similar service last year, and they in service times, a reduction in ser- runs from St. Catharines. gaps. picked up before the next bus. wanted it back.” vice and four-hour gaps, “making Overlapping transit runs in The average cost-per-bus run To reach Costantini, call 905- Prins mentions similar com- it really inconvenient” for students. which Welland and St. Catharines to each city is approximately 735-2211 ext. 7256/4226, or email plaints Brock University students This will not affect the Niagara- buses ran to the Welland campus at $30,000 per year, making the total him at [email protected]. Many Hands Music: Mark Visentin renovates Fort From passion brings local Inside Erie Salvation to profession » talent to world Niagara Army» stage » The 14-week renovation project Two young Welland men explain The Niagara IceDogs goalie shares held annually by Niagara College their attempts to turn their passion his experience as a major part of News kicked off on Jan. 14. for music into a lifestyle. Canadian World Juniors team. On Page 7 On Pages 8-9 On Page 16 Page 2 NIAGARA NEWS Jan. 21, 2011 NEWS New year, new faces at Niagara College Frosh Week rounds out with concert and contests for new students

By JANELLE NYSTROM Staff Writer It was Frosh Week at Niagara College, and enrolment was on the rise. Frosh Posh, music and a free lunch put smiles on faces at the 2011 January-start orientation at Niagara College. The frosh week events wrapped up Friday, Jan. 7, with a return per- formance by The Stables, a group of musicians from Oshawa, Ont. “Glad to be back,” says Poor Pelly. The musical rhythms of Poor Pelly, Blind Billy Blasko, Darren and Choo Choo Clarke of The Stables, a folk/bluegrass group, echoed throughout the halls of Niagara College on Jan. 6 and 7, following Niagara College’s program information sessions for students beginning programs in January. Offering new students an ex- cellent opportunity to meet with their faculty before the fi rst day of classes, Frosh Week at Niagara College was fi lled with excite- ment as newcomers and return- ing alumni took part in the day’s events. At informal program informa- tion sessions, students gained in- sight into what to expect from their program and each of their classes. Hearing from current students about their experiences, having Handing out Frosh Posh on January Start orientation day Friday, Jan. 7 were Kourtney Snow, student ambassador; Carly Root, on campus the opportunity to ask questions recruitment co-ordinator and Jaclyn Tanguay, student ambassador at Niagara College’s in Niagara-on-the-Lake campus. and having the chance to connect Photo by Janelle Nystrom with fellow students who are new to the program gave new students a College President Dan Patterson, fl at panel TV were the highlights but a limited number of spaces sions Offi cer, Linda Hales. chance to settle in. “and with the growing recognition of Niagara College’s January-start are still available despite Niagara Gordon Hunchack, director of Carly Root, an on-campus re- that many of the new jobs being Orientation events. College’s expansive $90-mil- marketing communications, says cruitment co-ordinator for Niagara created in today’s rapidly changing Winner Albert Elgie, a January lion construction project nearing in a recent press release, “Most College, handed out Frosh Posh economy are requiring the practi- start student, says the TV will be completion. Niagara College programs offer free giveaways for Orientation cal skills learned in an applied a “huge upgrade” for him since he One hundred and ninety-three accelerated January start formats Week with Niagara College Stu- post-secondary education, it’s has been watching an old hand-me- new post-secondary international with semesters running into the dent Ambassadors Kourtney Snow clear why more and more students down for quite some time. He says, students are expected to start class- summer. The winter semester also and Jaclyn Tanguay. are choosing college as their path “I couldn’t believe it. I actually es at Niagara College this January, provides another intake for many “Niagara College has a strong to success.” won.” along with more than “100 new competitive programs, offering reputation for student success and Free lunch with live entertain- College enrolment in Ontario is English as a Second Language stu- fl exibility to students upgrading student satisfaction,” says Niagara ment and a draw for a 40-inch LCD up seven per cent from last year, dents,” says International Admis- their pre-admission requirements.” Extra studying can pay off in more ways than one Peer tutors earn minimum wage for their services By SARAH PENTZ Students who are confused or required to fi ll out a tutor’s appli- Staff Writer who have failed an assignment cation form and agree to the tutor If you have an 80 per cent or or are not meeting graduating agreement. You can fi nd these higher academic average in any requirements have the option of forms in the peer services offi ce of your courses, why not use getting a peer tutor. at the Niagara-on-the-Lake and your skills to assist other students By becoming a tutor, you can Welland campuses. through peer tutoring? make some extra spending money Just like any other paying job, Many students who are strug- and help a fellow student, all there are requirements. gling in their studies often turn to while keeping up to date with your Tremonte says to be peer tutor a peer tutor for assistance. own studies. you must have a minimum aver- A peer tutor is anyone who is Josie Tremonte, of the Peer age of 80 per cent in the course in a similar program as the person Services department at Niagara you desire to tutor, be registered being tutored and is willing to College, says peer tutors earn as a full-time student and be tak- help another student raise his or minimum wage. ing at least 60 per cent of your her grade average. “Peer tutors make the same course load. Through peer tutoring, a student amount as minimum wage, which For more information on be- who has done extremely well in is $10.25 per hour, working up to coming a peer tutor at Niagara Josie Tremonte of the Peer Services department at Niagara College. a course helps a student who is 12 hours per week.” College, you can visit http://www. Photo by Sam Cino struggling with that same course. To become one, the student is niagaracollege.ca/tutor. Jan. 21, 2011 NIAGARA NEWS Page 3 NEWS Prime Minister visits Welland

By CHRISTOPHER FORTIER Staff Writer Mondays Celebrating volunteerism is now Global Connections a national idea. Conversation Cafe Prime Minister Stephen Harper S210(Welland) 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. came to the Welland Lions’ Club on Jan. 7 to unveil a new program Tuesdays that recognizes the hard work of Employer in the Hall Canada’s volunteers. (outside the cafeteria) “They are the unsung heroes 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. of Canada from coast to coast to coast who quietly help build up our Jan. 22 communities and make our country Ice WIne Festival great,” says Harper. “Volunteerism Niagara-on-the-Lake Ice Bar should not be a totally thankless Bus leaves Welland 10 a.m. task. Today, I am announcing a Downtown St. Catharines 10:30 a.m. new program that will give out- NOTL rez @ 10:45 a.m. standing volunteers the recognition Jan. 25, 26, 27 they deserve.” WInter Wonderland @ SAC The awards were created as a Free hot chocolate way to recognize the efforts of Free Apple cider Canadians who work to make a Free chocolate-dipped difference in the lives of others. marshmallows In total, 17 awards will be given across the country. Jan. 26 Three will be given in fi ve dif- Country Pub night ferent Canadian regions: Atlantic @ The Armoury 9 p.m. Canada, Quebec, Ontario, the Prime Minister Stephen Harper speaks to those in attendance at the Lions’ Club in Welland about the Prime Prairies, British Columbia and Minister’s Awards for Volunteerism. Jan. 29. Northern Canada. Photo by Christopher Fortier Skating in Niagara Falls The awards for each region will $10 tickets be given in three categories. Bus leaves Welland 10 a.m. One is given to recognize a life- winners receive $10,000 for their St. Catharines 10:30 a.m. The Community Leader Award ‘All across long achievement in volunteerism, organization of their choice. will go to individuals or groups and the other is to be given to a Nominations will begin in April Feb. 2 that act as a catalyst to develop Canada, young adult. 2011 during Canada’s National Yuk Yuks @ The Armoury solutions to local problems “Our objective is to raise the pro- Volunteer Week. Recipients will be Comedy show and pasta dinner The Business Leader Award volunteers are the fi le of volunteers and to encourage recognized at an awards ceremony @ 7 p.m. will be given to private sector re- others to become volunteers and in December. cipients who demonstrate social re- backbone of to help create a generous and car- “All across Canada, volunteers Feb. 23. sponsibility by utilizing resources ing nation,” says Harper. “These are the backbone of community SAC Toronto Raptors Excursion and/or developing partnerships community life.’ awards will capture the diverse life. The Prime Minister’s awards Bus leaves Welland @ 4:30 p.m. with organizations to help address range of work volunteers do from for volunteerism will give them the NOTL @ 5 p.m. social issues. — Stephen Harper sea to sea.” appreciation they deserve,” says Tickets available at SAC offices The third, the Social Innovator Regional award winners will Harper. Award, will be awarded to a person to address social challenges. receive a $5,000 grant for the For more information on the pro- For more information, visit the in the not-for-profi t sector who The fi nal two awards will be not-for-profi t organization of their gram or information on nomina- SAC office, the Info Centre and develops new approaches or ideas national ones. choice, while the national award tions visit www.pm.gc.ca/awards. the International Department. Bundle-up for the winter season at the Army Surplus St. Catharines store off ers options to face the cold By SAM CINO keeps you warm, but it’s “not for Staff Writer outside,” unless you are going to The holidays may be over, but, keep active to hold the heat in. baby, it’s cold outside. It is constructed from 95 per cent ‘You’re going to Layers are the key to staying polypropylene and fi ve per cent warm during the winter season, spandex to give it the stretch it have to dress the and Simon Kooter, owner of the would need while participating in Niagara Quartermaster army sur- physical activity. part and bundle plus store in St. Catharines, has just “Make sure you can get a model what you need to keep the cold out that has armpit zippers for ventila- up.’ and the heat in. tion, or you are going to be very “You’re going to have to dress hot,” he says, with emphasis. — Simon Kooter the part and bundle up,” he says. On the topic of zippers, models “You start with your base layer. with plastic membranes on the zip- This goes against your skin and can pers are also sought after. “The layer process is essentially be anything from a plain T-shirt to When closed, the membrane the same for your pants and socks,” a thermal shirt to polypropylene, seals against itself so water can- he says.“It is all going to depend which wicks sweat from you.” not penetrate through the zippered on your situation and what the Kooter is a licensed retailer for area. weather dictates.” Condor, an outdoor-focused com- Anti-microbial linings are an With a few months of winter pany, which also manufactures excellent feature as well, as they left, there is still plenty of time for military items such as holsters and eliminate the germs left behind people to face cold, harsh weather, pouches. after wearing and sweating into the and it’s not too late to stock up on For the second layer, Kooter material over time. clothing to keep you warm. recommends a soft fl eece, which is Kooter stresses the need for Kooter and the Niagara Quart- better suited for spring and fall, not proper headwear, as the head is said master are located at 622 Welland Simon Kooter shows some softshell jackets made by Condor. The jacket snow. to be the area for most heat loss. Ave. in St. Catharines, and the store comes in green, black and tan and is best suited for spring and fall He personally uses the Condor Hats should be thick and made of a can also be found on Facebook and temperatures. Base II, which breathes but still good quality material. Twitter. Photo by Sam Cino Page 4 NIAGARA NEWS Jan. 21, 2011 EDITORIAL

THE COMMUNITY PAPER OF NIAGARA COLLEGE You know the drill; Editor: Anton Mwewa Associate Editor: Shawn Smith Assistant Editor: Kayla Cabral Photo Editor: Toni Karan at least you should

Publisher: Annette Hemerik Jared Lee Loughner is a Program Co-ordinator: Paul Dayboll name previously unknown by Managing Editor: Peter Conradi the average man on the street. Associate Managing Editor: Phyllis Barnatt Today it is nearly as infamous Design/Layout Consultant: Peter Conradi as the likes of Lee Harvey Os- Editorial Consultant: Nancy Geddie, Gary Erb wald and John Wilkes Booth. Photography Consultant: Dave Hanuschuk Technology Support: Kevin Romyn For those who many not know him, Loughner is the man ac- 2006 WINNER BNC2009 B2, 300 Woodlawn Rd., cused of shooting Gabrielle Welland, Ont. L3C 7L3 Giffords, a Democratic mem- Telephone: (905) 735-2211 ber of the House of Represen- Fax: (905) 736-6003 tatives, representing Arizona’s Editorial email: [email protected] 8th Congressional district. Advertising email: [email protected] On Jan. 8, Loughner shot Gif- fords in the head outside a su- permarket where she was speak- ing at a constituent’s meeting. He also shot 19 other people, Info-addicts, unite killing six. Phone beside the bed? Check. volunteers went without any of Giffords, who was initially Facebook every hour? Check. their usual information devices, thought to have been killed, Lost without an iPod? Check. such as cellphones, computers, survived the incident and is re- I’ll be the fi rst to admit to and more for 24 hours. covering. suffering from all three of the What the researchers found The Arizona shooting re- above. As if somehow there was fascinating. minded America and the world is a chance the world ended The test subjects were unclear how fragile human life is and while we were out and someone as to what they were supposed to how easy it is to take it. forgot to tell us. do without their communication Though exercises are under- I’m addicted to information, instruments. taken to prevent and control and more than likely so are you. They were uncomfortable such occurrences, these acts of Thankfully, or perhaps with the situation, and the violence may not be able to be regrettably, a recent study experience was likened to stopped. This, however, doesn’t conducted by 12 universities giving up smoking or attempting mean that we should not try. Illustration by Toni Karan around the world suggests to lose weight. Niagara College has yet to there may be an actual disorder I cannot say for sure, but I’d carry out a lock-down drill to how we should react as a col- last day in fear of being repri- associated with the addiction. expect my experience would be enlighten students on the ac- lege to the threat of gun or knife manded on Monday, and our Information Deprivation somewhat comparable. tions they should take should violence on our campuses. If college seems to be putting off Disorder, or IDD for short, What can we learn from such an event occur on campus. something along the lines of essential drills until someone is an addiction not only to this? We, as a society, can try One drill set for the summer the Arizona shooting happened, is shot. information but also to the to become less dependent on was cancelled, presumably to the college would probably be Prevention is better than cure, technology used to gather it. technology, but the fact is that be undertaken in the fall when thrown into disarray, with sev- and if that is the price to pay Whether it is a world crisis or the world is becoming more the entire student population eral lives lost. for a higher level of security, I knowing what your friend had digitally based by the second. was back in classes. The fall It is human nature to procras- doubt the college will fi nd any- for lunch, we, as a society, need All we can do is embrace it. drill, however, was not carried tinate until there has been pres- one willing to pay it. to know everything instantly. out either, for unknown reasons. sure from external forces be- According to The Globe and It is, therefore, safe to say that yond our control. Mail, a study was done in which SHAWN SMITH we know little to nothing about Students do homework on the ANTON MWEWA Something wiki this way comes, so get ready goal to be one of the only tru- containing U.S. military heli- who is there to question the de- in their ability to speak without ly anonymous outlets for those copter personnel attacking what cision makers? limitations or obvious bias. JESSE who have leaked information were later identifi ed as civil- Without the Internet, we are It’s incidents like these that CARTER and would like to get it out there ians. still left to be told what news have led to people, like As- without revealing who they are In today’s world of freedom is by whoever owns the cor- sange, taking the news into Columnist or how the information was and journalistic responsibility, poration and is behind the their own hands and revealing obtained. where do we draw the line? publishing. what is out there. With huge amounts of docu- When do we stop? Though we have traditionally You can take or leave this in- ments being released in the What is really off limits? trusted these sources to cover formation, believe it or not. In today’s desensitized world, Iraqi War logs and now anoth- Do we need this outlet or what’s important, we now have But you can’t deny the we were shocked to hear of our er 250,000 U.S. embassy dip- should we continue with what access to what is now called change it has had on our view government’s secrets when they lomatic cables, WikiLeaks is we know? citizen journalism. of not only what is news, but were released to the Internet by now responsible for the biggest Clearly, stealing the infor- Bloggers or citizen news what we are actually shown by news-based website WikiLe- release of images of confi den- mation or even just releasing it gatherers can give their two our “trusted” sources. aks. tial material in the history of without permission is wrong in cents, valid or not. WikiLeaks may not always be WikiLeaks, founded by mankind. the sense that it can be delicate I have not generally support- careful in what it’s doing, but in Dutch computer-hacker Julian In addition to the written information or it can put lives at ed these bloggers. today’s society, I believe its ser- Assange in 2007, has made its leaks, video was also released risk, but without these outlets, I can, however, see the value vices have become a necessity. Jan. 21, 2011 NIAGARA NEWS Page 5 OPINION Emergency room wait is a real pain emergency room and the fl oor above. Worse yet, people who had CHRIS been checked into emergency prior FORTIER to me hadn’t seen a doctor yet. They had been waiting over 12 Columnist hours without any treatment. The nurse then took my blood pressure for a second time and questioned me how it could have possibly gone up. Recently, I wrote about someone “Oh gee, perhaps because it’s nearly hitting me with her car at been eight hours, and I am in the college because of her unsafe world of pain, and irate because I driving. could’ve gone home, slept and then I guess someone wanted to fi nish come back and still have not seen a the job. doctor,” I replied. Mere days after the publishing of The nurse then suggested I go to Port Colborne’s urgent care centre Donna MacLean, 47, of Niagara Falls, and her daughter Shaylene Abbey, 29, of Niagara Falls, take part in my near mauling, I got rear-ended because there’s less of a wait. this year’s Courage Brothers Polar Bear Dip for World Vision on Jan. 1, 2011. The event is held annually at in Fonthill on my way home from work in the early hours of the I looked at her puzzled and said, Coronation Park in Oakville, Ont. “Why the hell didn’t anyone sug- Submitted photo evening on Dec. 21. Unsafe driving conditions plus gest that to me before I sat down unsafe speeds equal trouble. and waited the entire night out in My Dodge Caravan was struck this place?” Splashing into a new year No reply. from behind by a Hyundai Sonata, After waiting a total of nine “Yes, mother,” I say. costume – and they were all wait- which because of its high front end, completely missed my bumper and hours, I checked myself out of “You want to come and spot me ing to get into the cold waters of the emergency room, went home, today? I am doing the Polar Bear Lake Ontario. Finally, fi ve minutes nailed my rear-hatch, rendering it SHAYLENE completely unusable and allowing called my family doctor and set up ABBEY Dip,” she says. The spotter hands before 2 p.m. the fi rst hundred or an appointment for later in the day, the dipper a towel so the dippers so participants were allowed to my back to absorb the majority of the shock of a collision. but waited two more hours in his Columnist don’t freeze to death. enter the beach area to prepare. I waiting room before I saw him. I told her I would love to, but I took off the warm hat, robe, jacket Fortunately, the van’s been re- paired at no cost to me. After X-rays, it turns out it was was too hung over. There was no and sweats I was wearing, and my Unfortunately, my back has been just some bruising and a slipped way I was driving to Oakville. mom did the same. killing me ever since. disc in my back, nothing serious, “How about this?” I say. “Next Shorts and a T-shirt on Jan. 1? I That night, about fi ve hours after but for two weeks I had to work Some people jump out of air- year, I will join you.” must be nuts. the accident, I decided to go to the with tremendous back and neck planes. Others climb mountains. I New Year’s Day 2010 came We advanced to the shoreline emergency room to have myself pain. prefer running half naked into an quickly. It was a gray, snowy, be- and the countdown began. checked out because I was in ex- My experience in the emergency icy lake on New Year’s Day. low-freezing day. With a duffl e bag “Three, two, one,” all the dippers cruciating pain. room isn’t a new issue, but it’s one It wasn’t my idea, I swear. packed with towels and dry clothes shouted, and with a ring of a bell After sitting in the waiting room that needs to be addressed. It was New Year’s Day 2009. My and a mind fi lled with excitement we ran into the frigid water. from 10:30 p.m. to around 1:30 No wonder Americans don’t sister and I were choking down a and uncertainty, I made the drive to Exhilarating. Cold. Absolutely a.m., I was ushered into an obser- want universal health care when greasy post-drinking breakfast at Oakville. insane. vation room, where a nurse took they hear things like this happen. an overcrowded diner. My sister’s Mom was waiting for me. I It’s a tradition now. My mom my blood pressure and asked me My one experience in a U.S. cell phone rang. It was mom. registered for the event and got a and I indulged again this year, and to wait. emergency room was 45 minutes. “What are you guys doing?” coffee, and then joined her in line. it was a great experience. I have I sat until about 6 a.m., without Sure it cost me $175 U.S for the mom asks. She told me we were going to be in decided to keep it going and will television or anything to keep visit, but I was in and out in less than an hour. “Being hung over, and you?” my the “fi rst wave” of dippers. do the dip every year I can. myself occupied or even a doctor If time is money, then how much sister replies. It was a cold wait. There were Instead of reaching for the Ty- to look at me. so many people – children, older lenol on New Year’s Day, I will The nurse on duty informed did the 11 hours I spent waiting in She nods, shakes her head and that 24-hour span cost me? hands the phone to me. folks and crazier people dressed in reach for my towel. me there was one doctor for the • G1 & G2 PREP • • SINGLE LESSONS AVAILABLE • A solution for the resolution DRIVER VOTED #1 EDUCATION 2003 2004 Staying committed to better decisions 2005 2006 end up as things we tried to do for make a routine or say I’m going to a while, and as 2012 comes closer, exercise more. 2007 KAYLA the same resolutions come rolling Instead, I’m going to say, “I’m 2008 CABRAL around again. going to make healthier choices” How do we stop the cycle? and walk and exercise whenever I 2009 Columnist It seems to be a simple ques- have spare time in this busy life. AAPEX tion with an easy answer: follow The New Year always seems to 2010 DRIVING ACADEMY through with your resolutions. be the time to move on from the Things are never as simple as past, make better decisions and they seem. Life seems to get in the have a clean slate to start over. 8 LOCATIONS Exercise more, eat well, stop all way of making these resolutions. Sometimes we will make the bad habits, rinse and repeat. For me, I always say I’m going same mistakes, fall back into the Register TO SERVE YOU Every year we have the same to start working out on a regular same routines and have to start • FONTHILL • WELLAND On Line! • NIAGARA FALLS • ST. CATHARINES New Year’s resolutions, and every basis. It starts off well. I work out over, but that’s OK. & view upcoming year by mid-February, we’re back every day for a few months and This year, when mid-February course dates • PORT COLBORNE • FORT ERIE

to our old habits. then I get sick or go away or some- comes around and you feel • BEAMSVILLE • GRIMSBY 64497557 Whether it is exercising more, thing changes in my routine and yourself slipping, try to stick with quitting smoking or leaving sugar I’m back to square one. it. If you can’t, well, there’s always aapexdriving.com products behind in 2010, they all My solution? I’ve decided not to next year. Page 6 NIAGARA NEWS Jan. 21, 2011 NEWS New teaching Th e winter woes ideas for literacy Dealing with Seasonal Aff ective Disorder

By KRISTA ASHFORD hoping to see it span from the most By KAYLA CABRAL Staff Writer basic levels of sentence structure to Staff Writer Video games aren’t just for the most complex. Some call it winter blues, while shooting zombies anymore. The game content will focus on others will tell you they’re feeling The Pepsi-sponsored Refresh Canadian facts and history, as well down. Either way, the correct term Everything project is looking for as information about Canada’s for this feeling is Seasonal Affec- new and innovative ideas that First Nations, past and present. tive Disorder (SAD). could win corporate sponsorship. Johnson is also hoping the proj- Although it is most common in The categories range from educa- ect will have an online component, the winter months, people have tion and health to art and culture making it accessible to a wider been known to get the same feel- and include green ideas for the audience. On the website, Johnson ings during the summer. The main planet. Pepsi will give away incre- says, “Although many literacy cause of SAD is the lack of light. ments of $5,000, $25,000, $50,000 projects exist for reading, this is In the winter months there is less and $250,000 for the ideas that re- the one that addresses the writing light, so people are more inclined ceive the most votes on the Refresh component!” to stay indoors, reducing the Everything website. She is hoping Niagara will be the amount of vitamins in their system. For Feir Johnson, this is an op- central “hub” for this project and Christine Philbrick, a nurse at portunity to launch her idea for allow the game to be distributed to the Niagara-on-the-Lake college an educational video game that the surrounding areas. campus, says, “The decrease in focuses on literacy. An English Voting for Johnson’s idea ended sunlight can disrupt an individu- teacher and an award winner, John- on Dec. 31, but for more informa- al’s internal clock.” son is looking to expand the reach tion on the Refresh Everything She says symptoms are “similar of literacy programs. project, visit refresheverything. to depression.” The project is called How to com and cast your vote for the next Irritability, tiredness, diffi culties Grow a Sentence, and Johnson is great Canadian idea. with school and generalized feel- ings of sadness are what students may feel. “Students are inside a lot so they are getting less exposure to He shoots, he scores sunlight, which is proven to be a main factor.” Research in Ontario suggests for local charities that between two and three per cent of the general population may Canadians love hockey, so what youth. Those pledging more than have SAD. It can affect children better reason to play hockey than to $20 receive a tax receipt. and teenagers, but it tends to begin prevent homelessness? The event is hosted by the Ni- in people over the age of 20. The On Feb. 5, the Niagara Region is agara Region, in co-operation with risk of SAD decreases with age Illustration by Toni Karan hosting a ball-hockey tournament Community Care of St. Catharines and is more common in women tions, and personal, which involves personal lives, school assignments to help raise funds for local agen- and Thorold, Project SHARE, than in men. using your everyday resources to and exams, and this stress can cies working to prevent homeless- Port Cares, Grimsby Affordable Philbrick suggests making your make a routine to help yourself. sometimes turn into a cycle that ness in the region. Housing Partnership and The Hope environment bright, open windows “How is it complicating your then turns into SAD. It can come The event takes place at the Centre. and make the effort to go outside life, and what resources do you on gradually, or you can feel it all Niagara Region Headquarters, Those teams who are interested everyday no matter the weather. have to fi x it?” at once. 2201 St. David’s Rd. in Thorold, can register at www.niagarare- “Exercise is helpful for mood el- She says by “going outside, exer- Either way there are different and guarantees participants at least gion.ca. For more information, evations too. It gets you outside.” cising, changing thoughts, working things you can do to prevent it or three 15-minute games. The cost call 905-984-6900 or 1-800-263- Donna Putman, a counsellor at on routines to make sure you keep fi x it. is $20 for each adult and $15 for 7215 ext. 3809. the Welland campus, says Canadi- your life moving forward and not Making a routine for yourself ans are prone to SAD because “we losing anything even though you’re is one, as are doing things to keep THANK YOU get more darkness.” feeling some kind of this disorder” yourself moving and going outside THANK YOU “We lose our light starting in late can help relieve you of the stress to get some fresh air. THANK YOU October and it changes how we and feelings of depression. “There’s no quick answer. You process it [light].” “Students feel things just aren’t need to work through it,” says THANK YOU She says there are two types working well.” Words they use are Putman. THANK YOU of therapies for people who ex- “overwhelmed” “feeling low,” and For more information, visit the perience SAD: medical, which “no motivation.” nurses or counsellors at each cam- THANK YOU involves light therapy and medica- Students are stressed with their pus or visit your family doctor. THANK YOU supporting your THANK YOU THANK YOU Niagara College THANK YOU Community Paper For many years Avondale stores have THANK YOU THE COMMUNITY PAPER OF NIAGARA COLLEGE THANK YOU generously distributed THANK YOU 2,400 copies of each Niagara News issue across the Niagara Region. In print or online you THANK YOU can read the news that THANK YOU Avondale demonstrates how good corporate citizens support is important to you THANK YOU student learning. THANK YOU The staff of theNiagara News THANK YOU wish to thank Avondale for its Join the conversation: THANK YOU past, current and future assistance. THANK YOU niagara-news.com THANK YOU Please support Avondale Food Stores. facebook.com/niagaranews THANK YOU For additional sale items, please check: THANK YOU www.avondalestores.com twitter.com/niagara_news THANK YOU Jan. 21, 2011 NIAGARA NEWS Page 7 NEWS Many hands get busy renovating Fort Erie’s Salvation Army gets a much needed remodel By ANTON MWEWA and SHAWN SMITH Staff Writers Many hands make light work, and the Many Hands Project of Niagara College broke ground at the Salvation Army in Fort Erie on Jan. 14 as part of its annual renovation project. Shelley Merlo, co-ordinator of the Event Management Graduate Certifi cate program and faculty adviser to the project, says, “Many Hands has become a great Niagara College tradition that assists agen- cies that do such important work in our communities.” Thirteen renovations have been undertaken since the project be- gan in 1998. In 2011, the Salvation Army of Fort Erie was selected. Donna Patterson, Community and Family Service manager of the Salvation Army in Fort Erie, says she was “thrilled” about her organization being selected. “You can actually make a dif- ference,” says Patterson. “That is what the students will be doing : making a difference in the com- munity.” Gary Dolch, a professor of Fort Erie Mayor Doug Martin, Community and Family Service manager of the Salvation Army Donna Patterson, and chairperson of the Many Construction Studies at Niagara Hands Project Lesa Holmes pose together during the groundbreaking ceremony at the Salvation Army in Fort Erie. College, says the program used to Photo by Anton Mwewa be a one-day event with 150 par- ticipants but has expanded into an Graduate Certifi cate program. a back room into a food bank, and “It’s nice to get experience out- feel like they are walking into an entire course. As part of the project, students the main room into a drop-in centre side of the classroom. I hope to institution. They’re coming into a “The students gain two things by plan, develop, co-ordinate and ul- for local youth. gain a lot of hands-on knowledge.” home.” taking part in this project: the fi rst timately execute a renovation of a “There is roofi ng, there is Fort Erie Mayor Doug Martin For those who would like to is the hands-on experience outside non-profi t organization’s facility in plumbing, fl ooring, there is design, says the town has “great” volun- show their support, the Salvation of the classroom; the second is their community. kitchen work. You name it, they’re teers that always come to the aid of Army of Fort Erie is in the running the community outreach involved. Complementary works such as doing it,” says Patterson. those in need. for the Pepsi Refresh Project, a Hopefully, students will continue fundraising, volunteer manage- Steve Schroeder, 21, of Niagara- “This [renovation] is going to community-geared initiative that to take part in voluntary work after ment, and hospitality are the re- on-the-Lake, is one of the students help them [the Salvation Army] will award a $10,000 grant to an they graduate.” sponsibility of the students. participating in the project. He provide the services that are need- idea that receives the most votes. The Many Hands Project is a The changes in Fort Erie will be says he’s excited to take part in the ed within the town. This is going To vote for the Many Hands hands-on component of Niagara undertaken over a 14-week period project and is happy to help in the to make it a much more comfort- Project, please visit refreshevery- College’s Event Management and involve the transformation of community. able experience, so people don’t thing.ca/manyhands. Lego engineers challenged to build robots By NOKNOY XAYASANE demonstrates the core values, Staff Writer design, performance and co- Niagara College was bombard- operation. ed with engineers on Dec.4. It went to the Guardian Angels Their challenge was to conduct Robot Force 2010 (Garf10) of research and build and program Guardian Angels Catholic El- a Lego Mindstorms robot for the ementary School in Waterdown, 2010 For Inspiration and Recog- Ont. nition of Science and Technology The engineers of Garf10 were First Lego League Body Forward Sarah Alderson, 12, Ethan Brandt, Challenge. 12, Jens VanDenberg, 12, Brendan These are not typical engineers. Henderson, 14, Noah Linton, 12, Local children aged nine to 14 and Nathan Homerski, 12. arrived at the Niagara-on-the- Garf10 will be representing the Lake campus representing their Niagara Region at the Provincial teams with matching jerseys. The competition. youngsters competed head-to- “I can’t believe it! It’s awe- head in the Challenge. some! Nathan won’t believe it!” It explores one of the most says Jens VanDenberg, 12, about relevant topics today: how en- the team’s win and about his miss- gineering mixes with traditional Ethan Brandt, Brendan Henderson, Noah Linton, Sarah Alderson, Jen VanDenberg and Ben Alderson ing teammate, Nathan Homerski, biological and medical sciences to received the Champion Award at the fi rst Lego League Challenge. Missing are Matt Alderson and Coach who was absent. advance health care. Nathan Homersk. Mentor Ben Alderson, 14, says The teams explored the world Photo by Noknoy Xayasane he couldn’t pick what he liked of biomedical engineering and body’s potential. bionic eyes and object control ship Tournament at 2 p.m. and an most. “All of it was my favourite.” discovered innovative ways to These challenges include bone through thought. awards ceremony at 3:45 p.m. Alderson says about his peers, repair injuries, overcome genetic repair, rapid blood screening, The 9 a.m. opening ceremony The Champion Award goes to “It wasn’t hard mentoring [Garf10] predispositions and maximize the pacemakers, nerve mapping, was followed by a Champion- the most prestigious team that because we are all friends.” Page 8 Niagara News - Jan. 21, 2011 Page 9 Niagara musicians make their mark Welland natives turn passion into success

is getting his name known. would also write music. The fi rst song he St. John’s, N.L. He has also been on the ✮ DJ and producer “The song was played in several famous ✮ SSingeringer ppuputsts ssoulo He started playing the drums when he wrote was called Glory Days. radio station CFRU, in Guelph and INDI DJ’s live sets, as well as on Sander van bbehindehind ssongsongs was 10 years old and since Grade 8 has “I write about stuff that is going on 101, in Hamilton. fascinated by sound Doorn’s Identity radio show.” played in a couple of scream-o bands. around me and in my life, but it’s almost Raycroft says he enjoys telling the sto- In mid-2010, Mason founded Helion By TTONIONI KARAKARANN The fi rst time he sang in front of a like it’s encoded.” ries behind his songs before he sings them By ANTON MWEWA Tide Studios, a business that offers audio Staffaff WrWriteriter crowd was at his Grade 12 high school Raycroft says he feels “really strongly” because it makes the songs more relatable. Staff Writer mastering and restoration. The studio, A talented student fromom Welland is talent show. against the child sex trade. He wrote a song People will also talk to him after his Sayin g passion is all you need to go after dubbed by Mason as a “bedroom-in-my- broadening his creative abilities while in “I just assumed everyone could sing be- about the negative subject called Natalie. shows and tell him their stories or feelings your dreams may sound clichéd, but any- parent’s-house-converted-into-a-studio,” Guelph. cause it was like talking. I never thought Raycroft had asked his friend Reilly Mc- about his songs. one who thinks it does should meet Bryan signifi ed a point in his career where he Jordan Raycroft, 19, started to take his that I had anything special.” Ilhone to take photos of him that he could Raycroft has shows coming up at The Mason. was “confi dent enough” in his abilities as music career seriously when he moved Raycroft wrote a song titled Michael, use for his musical profi le on his website. Corktown Pub in Hamilton on Jan. 27 and “I’ve always believed strongly in doing a producer to start offering his services to away from home to attend the University which was about his friend’s “really bad” “It didn’t take too much for me to accept at The Youth Action Centre in Welland on what you’re passionate about,” he says. “If the public. of Guelph. break-up. [taking photos for him]. He’s a good friend Jan. 28. you’re not happy with your career or your The home studio means a lot of inconve- “I always sang, whether it was in church Michael Boyd, 19, says, “His music is of mine,” says McIlhone, 17, of Welland. Raycroft says, “When I perform my choice of education leading to a particular nience for his parents, but they have grown or just around the house, says Raycroft. simple, but it moves you when listening Raycroft’s fi rst show opened last songs I put my soul behind them and get fi eld of work, then why bother pursuing it used to it and “tune it out.” He comes from a musical family, and he to it.” March for Canadian musician Peter Katz. really into it [the performance].” in the fi rst place?” “Most of the time it sounds like noise,” says his mom is a “phenomenal singer.” Raycroft taught himself how to play Since then he has done a majority of his For more information about Raycroft Mason, 22, also known by the stage says Susan jokingly, of the house and His sister, Natalie Raycroft, 17, says he is the guitar and would practice in his spare performances in Guelph, as well as play- and his music go to www.myspace.com/ name of Helion Tide, is a Welland native techno music Mason spends so much time good at what he does and it is “cool” that he time while away at school. At this time he ing in the Niagara region, Toronto and in jordanraycroftmusic. DJ, music producer and president of Helion producing. “But I know he has a lot of tal- Tide Studios. Needless to say, the impres- ent, and we support him all the time.” sive repertoire of this young professional Mason’s abilities span much farther than has music written all over it. his home studio. He recently took on the Mason grew up with his older brother, role of DJ with a friend under the moniker Bryan Mason Lyle, and lives in Welland, Ont., with his Two Tone, at Rockford’s Nightclub in St. parents, Robert and Susan. He fi rst discov- Catharines every other Thursday. DJ & MUSIC PRODUCER ered music at the tender age of seven, when Besides opening his own studio, Mason he learned to play his fi rst song on a guitar. also released a music video for his song His fascination with sound grew with him. Wind Walking in 2010. Christian Wiebe, a When most of his peers were out riding 21-year-old fi lmmaker from Fonthill, Ont., their bikes or “wiping out on their roller took on the task of creating Mason’s fi rst- blades,” Mason would be indoors, playing ever music video. Having known Mason the guitar with Lyle and Lyle’s friends. for about fi ve years, Wiebe spared no time “He [Bryan] and his brother shared a in proposing collaboration. guitar and they basically taught themselves “Bryan and I were in an elevator on our how to play,” says Susan. “When most way to A State of Trance 450 in Toronto,” kids played with toys, he didn’t care. He recalls Wiebe. “I had a few drinks in me at couldn’t concentrate on things like puzzles, this point and simply said, ‘Hey I have a but with the music it was never a problem.” small production company now. I’d really In his teen years, Mason went on to play in like to collaborate with you and produce a various local thrash metal bands, particularly music video for your next song.’” the band he started with his friends called The video, which was shot with absolute- Sever the Nile, spending a lot of time tour- ly no funding and off the work of Mason, ing Canada and recording songs and different Wiebe and their friends, was released in the studios in the Niagara region. It was during fourth quarter of 2010. this time that his interest in the behind-the- So far, Mason shows no signs of slowing scenes action of recording came about. down. The support he receives from his “[Recording] sparked my interest … after family, friends and his fans keep him going. shadowing over some of the recording en- Kate Dion, 20, one of Mason’s closest gineers,” says Mason. “Before I knew it, I friends says he is dedicated to what he does. had a list of software suites and techniques “In 10 years Bryan will have pierced I wanted to try, so I took some initiative through millions of hearts with his hard and started learning how to produce my work, dedication and amazing music.” own music from scratch.” “Some of the coolest things I’ve seen After Sever the Nile separated, Mason sold recently are a bunch of other independent most of his band gear and invested the rest electronic artists listing me in their musi- of his time into securing a regular job. With cal infl uences,” Mason says. “Aside from enough money saved after his labour, Mason making me incredibly happy, appreciative built himself “a ridiculously expensive PC to and ultimately excited about my future, it’s start my endeavours in audio production.” also a huge motivator to see people react Within a year of producing his own songs positively to your work. “ and remixing those of other artists, one of With so much accomplished and so much Mason’s remixes of a song by a famous DJ more planned for the future, Mason says he and producer in the United Kingdom was no- is going to give himself the next few years ticed and then released on a compilation disk. to make an impact on the music industry. Mason says the experience was “incred- “Your accomplishments are only as fruit- ibly motivating” for him. ful as you make them.” Jordan Raycroft Submitted photos SINGER/ SONGWRITER Page 10 NIAGARA NEWS Jan. 21, 2011 NEWS

Even in the middle of the night, the broadcasters were still in high spirits as they rock for the Hope Centre. From left are Tommy West, Taylor Pope, Cristina Lucarelli, Liz Russell, Laryn Gilmour, Carly Nichol, Patrick Walford, Julia Angrilli, Mark Baglole and Janel Steeper. Photo By Christopher Fortier Twenty-four hours of rock Broadcasting students rock around the clock for the Hope Centre

By SARAH FERGUSON the Hope Centre in Welland. “fun,” adding, “We had a decent food from Squires and Boston Piz- through the night somehow,” Wal- Staff Writer The event benefi ted the centre, turnout this year.” za” was given to the participants to ford says, adding, “[It was] good On Dec. 9, Broadcasting-Radio, which helps struggling families, “We rocked our way through to keep them going, says Walford. team work.” Television and Film students were children and individuals. the morning,” says Russell. Walford says, “It’s awesome Rob Huffman, a student who on the air for 24 hours from Niaga- “There has been an increased The event featured everything we’re reaching out to a local took part, also says “the hardest ra College just outside the cafeteria use of the food bank, so the do- from music, to entertainment, to cause.” part was staying awake.” at the Welland campus. nations go towards buying food sports. Because the event asked stu- “It’s exciting though, and a lot of The fi fth annual Rock Around the and keeping the lights on and the Student Patrick Walford says dents to stay awake for 24 hours, it people [were] involved.” Clock event raised “about $500” heat,” says Kemp. everything went well “for the wasn’t easy. For more information on 90.1 and collected “non-perishable food Liz Russell, a student who most part.” “For some reason, as someone FM The Heat and its program- items and some toys,” says Pat “wanted to get involved [in the Students played hockey games who is a night owl, [staying awake] ming, visit broadcasting.niagara- Kemp, the executive director for event] from the get-go,” says it was on the Xbox 360, and “awesome took a toll on me. Everyone pushed college.ca. Port teens need to raise money to make a diff erence By LINDSAY COSTELLO The concert will take place Feb. Staff Writer 26 and will feature local musicians. Musician Stevie Wonder once The idea for a concert came said, “We all have ability. The dif- about after the girls spoke with a ference is how we use it.” friend who had held a similar ben- Two Port Colborne students are efi t last year and suggested they do hoping to use their abilities to make the same. a difference in Africa this summer. Although they are still in the pro- Arden Bull, a Grade 12 student, cess of contacting local bands and and Carly Richardson, a Grade fi guring out the details, Bull says 11 student, both at Port Colborne she is hoping for a successful event. High School, are planning a trip to She says she has known about the Maasai Mara region of Kenya Free the Children since elementary but still need to raise the money to school, but attending We Day, an get there. annual conference put on by the They will be travelling through organization to promote social the Me to We organization. Me to change, “jump-started” their plans We was founded by brothers Craig to take the trip. and Marc Kielburger in partnership She says she is “very excited” with Free the Children, the “world’s about travelling to Africa. largest network of children helping “I think I will take in and remem- children through education.” ber a lot more volunteering there The students will be responsible than locally,” she says. “I’m expect- for helping to build a school and a ing a bit of culture shock, which I water system in a local community. think will make this experience Although they have already paid really memorable.” their deposits, they still need to The duo is also planning more raise $4,000 each to participate in fundraisers throughout the year to the three-week trip beginning on reach their goal including a Kenya- June 30. themed dinner and a raffl e. The pair’s most recent fundrais- Anyone wishing to help can email Port Colborne High School students Arden Bull and Carly Richardson display a newspaper article on the ing effort is organizing a benefi t Bull at [email protected] Me to We organization. The pair are planning to take a trip to Kenya with the organization this summer. concert at the Hub, at 72 Charlotte or Richardson at carlyy_2323@ Photo by Lindsay Costello St. in Port Colborne. hotmail.com. Jan. 21, 2011 NIAGARA NEWS Page 11 NEWS Knights deliver off the court Women’s basketball team donates bags and time to Packs of Hope By KRISTEN SPRUIT “When you go down there and Staff Writer see the kids walking down the road As part of their involvement with their backpacks, on their way with the organization, the Niagara to school, and you know you were College women’s basketball team sort of a part of that process, it’s presented Wells of Hope board pretty neat. member Harry Alexander with a “The need is there, and people $100 cheque, a donation from the open their arms to help out in any- college’s Student Services Depart- way they can.” ment, on Dec. 9. Packs of Hope sent a shipment Wells of Hope, founded in 2004, of 3,000 backpacks in 2010 and consists of many volunteers from are planning to send a second ship- the Niagara region who are work- ment in early 2011. Lemon and ing to provide the basic necessities the women’s basketball team are for poor regions in Guatemala. In hoping to contribute at least 100 particular, the focus is on bringing backpacks. clean water to rural villages in the “We take things for granted here, Jalapa region by digging wells. and something simple like a bag A sister program is Packs of and the goodies we put in it, like Hope, which in the last four years toothpaste and little toys, means has delivered 7,500 backpacks nothing. But to people over there, fi lled with supplies, and in the last it makes their year,” says basket- two years, 8,000 fi lled shoeboxes ball player Amanda Peppit. to children in Guatemala. Niagara College women’s basketball team members present Packs of Hope board member Harry Alexander “Any way our team can give Team coach Ron Lemon became with a cheque for $100, a donation to the team from Student Services. back is great. Obviously it’s [back- interested in the organization about Photo by Kristen Spruit packs are] something that we all three years ago after his wife trav- have, we all go to school and have elled to the region to volunteer with the money they’ve collected to donate to the Packs of Hope doesn’t cost anything but time,” left-over bags,” says basketball with a group of dentists for two from their basketball camps. project. says Lemon. player Whitney Jackson. weeks. There was a need for skilled Three years ago the team do- “I didn’t know how this was Alexander has volunteered in the “It just feels good as a team to labour, service and supplies. nated $500 to the Wells of Hope or- going to go over, but everyone region in Guatemala three times. know we’re doing something.” Lemon says around Christmas ganization. For the past two years seemed to remember the back- He says donating backpacks is a For more information about the time the team likes to do something the team has collected backpacks packs, so we’ll keep it going. It simple way of helping out. projects, visit wellsofhope.com. Old Deere, new green Potential for 300 renewable energy jobs to come to Welland’s closed John Deere facility

By STEPHANIE NIKITA Damian Goulbourne says there bourne has said the location of Staff Writer is a possibility that over 300 new the plant is attractive to “green IT’S LIKE The John Deere Welland Works jobs in renewable energy and green technology” companies because of facility closed down in November technology could be created some- the “access to skilled labour from SEEING JUSTICE 2009, and with it Welland saw a time in 2011. Niagara College and low manufac- loss of more than 800 jobs. In two separate reports from turing costs.” Now, there are talks of a buy-out CKTB radio and multiple reports He also said some of the compa- SERVED of the facility and, former mayor from The Welland Tribune, Goul- nies vying for the space are three JOHN DEERE IN WELLAND: Chinese-based companies and one Vancouver company – it’s likely Your police foundationscould giveor community you the VIP & status justice you need A history and future that the plant will house at least services diploma three of these companies – and all to transfer straight into year two or three are in the fi eld of green technology of a Humber degree program: and renewable energy. The names of the companies Bachelor of Applied Arts John Deere comes have not been released to the pub- Criminal Justice. to Dain City. 1911 John Deere’s Canadian lic because, according to a report 1915 headquarters moved in The Welland Tribune, city coun- John Deere Welland Works 1924 to Welland. cillors were concerned with the shut down because of announcement looking like “cheap tariff reductions on John Deere Welland Works politicking.” farm equipment. 1931 reopened when high tariffs Goulbourne has not said when returned to Canada. more information will be avail- Exclusive production 1947 able about what companies will of Deere implements be more or less likely to obtain the transferrs almost Welland Works is scheduled facility, but Chinese representa- completely to Welland. to close and move to tives have been to visit the plant, Mexico and the U.S. and a business discussion has been 2009 held in Vancouver. The Vancouver Interest from new company is due to give an answer 2010 What now, companies is generated Mayor Barry Sharpe? sometime this year. and new jobs are promised. 2011 The city has also fi led an ap- plication for a 15-megawatt solar farm to facilitate the new produc- Find out if you are eligible. tion of green energies that will be humber.ca/transfer put to use to get the plant up and running. Page 12 NIAGARA NEWS Jan. 21, 2011 NEWS Accredited Construction Engineering Technology program: Laying foundations to build successful careers By SHAWN SMITH that students can apply for their computer maintenance department dents fi nd work. Staff Writer Civil Engineering Technician cer- and have it fi xed or replaced free “We’ve always had very good With the post-secondary educa- tifi cation after only two years in the of charge. support from local employers. If an tion system always expanding, few ‘... 100 per cent workforce. Weerdenburg credits local em- employer calls in saying they are programs can be considered unique employment. The other requirements are a ployers in the area for their sup- looking for a worker, we keep the to any given school in Ontario, but three-year diploma, a professional port of the program. The sixth and students’ contact information and Construction Engineering Technol- The stats might practice and a practice report – all fi nal term of the program requires get hold of them. ogy here is one of the few to hold of which students receive as part of students to take part in a work “We still have employers call- the distinction. change, but I only the program. placement. ing in September after graduation, The three-year program readies Weerdenburg credits laptop in- “We have a number of employ- but by then the best students have students for many employment op- take those who tegration as one aspect that makes ers in the area who participate in found employment.” portunities in the engineering fi eld. the program unique. the program. They try to expose Jesse Meyer, 19, is a fi rst-year Some of these include construction want to work.’ “When I started here [in 1995], the students as much as they can student in the Construction Engi- managers, inspectors, surveyors computer applications and Auto- to what it will be like as a junior neering Technology program, and and structural detailers. — Paul Weerdenburg CAD were done in a computer lab. starting out in the workforce. They says that although the work load is Paul Weerdenburg, co-ordinator With laptop integration we’re able [the students] usually take a place- quite heavy, he has learned a lot. of the Construction Engineering to go a lot more in-depth.” ment in the part of the fi eld they “There is a really heavy course Technology program, says that the the Canadian Technology Ac- The laptops are leased from want to pursue. If they want to be load and it is defi nitely hard trying diversity the program offers is one creditation Board, and in 2010 the the college for the duration of a building inspector, they can do to manage everything at one time. of its key features. program received accreditation the students’ stay in the program. their placement with the city,” says It’s a lot of work, but I think it’s “One of the strengths of the pro- from the Ontario Association of Weerdenburg says they chose this Weerdenburg. going to be worth it,” says Meyer. gram is that we don’t have a par- Certifi ed Engineering Technicians route so that everyone would be The success rate of the program Although the program offers ticular strength. We ready students and Technologists. on a level playing fi eld and all speaks for itself. Weerdenburg says many career options, the AutoCAD for many different fi elds. We ready This was a huge boost for stu- software would be legal and prop- those who want employment out of aspect of the course is what has the students for all aspects of the dents because it further solidifi es erly licensed. As well, if students the program almost always fi nd it. particularly interested Meyer. Au- engineering fi eld.” their legitimacy to the workforce. come across a problem with their “I’ll say 100 per cent employ- toCAD is a designing program that The program is accredited by With this accreditation, it means computer, they can take it to the ment. The stats might change, but I offers users the ability to digitally only take those who want to work.” design what it is they are working Many of the students are able on through the computer. to fi nd work directly out of their “The use of laptops is nice. I’ve placement but if they cannot, the been enjoying the drawing and program informally helps the stu- AutoCAD aspects.”

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3DLGIRUE\WKH*RYHUQPHQWRI2QWDULR Jan. 21, 2011 NIAGARA NEWS Page 13 SPORTS Knights lose hard fought battle Genesee defeats Niagara 70-64 in exhibition game

By EMMA RUSSELL the fi rst half. By half time the Staff Writer score was a close 35–33 for the The Niagara College Knights Cougars. women’s basketball team broke Niagara Coach Ron Lemon said their 4-0 home record winning this semester would be a little streak when they lost 70-64 in an tougher because they lost a player exhibition game to the Genesee and another is hurt. Five-foot Community College Cougars on two-inch guard Anita Cloutier Wednesday, Jan. 12. showed a lot of hustle as she out- The Knights played an exhibi- ran the visiting players of Genesee tion game against the Cougars in down the court. December and had a 92-73 loss. The Knights’ defence helped The women were off to a good them keep the score close during start this year with the fi rst basket the second half. scored by centre Whitney Jack- “Our defence played really son. The Cougars quickly got the good,” said forward Shelby John- point right back and led the rest of ston. the game. Johnston got nine points by the Niagara’s fi fth-year forward end of the game. Kaitlyn McKenna scored 16 points Lemon said the game plan for during the game, trailed closely by the night was to play good defence forward Kate Montgomery with and to “take care of the ball.” 15 points. The Knights now have a 4-12 “We played better tonight than exhibition record. They will they have over the past few games be playing tonight, Jan. 21 at 6 and we ran better than we have p.m. in the new athletic centre in Knights guard Anita Cloutier (No. 5) defends the ball from Humber’s Sainney Carvery during a game on Nov. been,” says McKenna. Welland against Algoma Univer- 11, 2010. Both teams played the ball well sity Thunderbirds. Photo by Sam Cino Intramural athletics begin a new term at both campuses Hockey, basketball, dodgeball, fl oorball, soccer highlighted

By MATT GIBSON student at the college, seems to into it,” your perception of in- badminton, aerobic class, vol- The Niagara-on-the-Lake Staff Writer think interest in hockey may be tramurals may change and your leyball, basketball, indoor soccer, campus Fitness Centre hours are Imagine the glory, the attention dwindling. “willingness to participate may beach volleyball and table tennis Monday to Thursday 8:30 a.m. to and the atmosphere one can create “We were not able to fi nd a increase.” any time during open gym hours. 9 p.m., Friday 8:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., by scoring a game-winning goal on goalie, so we never got a team,” Floorball, dodgeball and three- Participation and enjoyment in a and weekends noon to 5 p.m. a breakaway in overtime. Imagine says Olah. on-three basketball will be played non-competitive environment are To sign up for intramurals, sweat blurring your vision as you He says not being able to put a at the newly renovated Welland stressed.” you must register. Forms can be line up a rainbow jump shot with team together was disappointing. campus. However, the Niagara-on- The Welland campus Fitness printed off at http://www.niaga- seconds left on the clock. If you fi nd putting a team of 12 the-Lake campus has a list of its Centre is open weekdays from raknights.ca/sports/intramurals. Very few of us will ever have together, plus having to rely on a own intramural sports to offer. 8:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. and weekends htm#welland or picked up in the the opportunity to experience those goaltender too diffi cult, there are noon to 5 p.m. athletic department on campus. scenarios at the professional level, intramural sports not demanding a but Niagara College’s intramural dozen available players. ‘I knew very sports programs allow anyone a Floorball will require fi ve play- glimpse of glory. ers plus one goaltender to register. little about From September 2010 to Decem- Dodgeball will require six play- ber 2010, the college offered all ers to register and three on three intramurals, but sorts of intramural sports programs basketball allows more than three including soccer, ball hockey, arena players to register per team, mean- I found out you fl ag football and ultimate Frisbee. ing substitutions are allowed. This semester, from January Olah says putting an ice hockey could put an ice 2011 to April 2011, Niagara Col- team together was most important hockey team lege’s Welland campus will be and challenging. He says based on offering the following intramural the wide variety of choices avail- together this year.’ sports: ice hockey, three on three able to students he can focus on basketball, fl oorball and dodgeball. building a different type of team. – Chris Kourounis The majority of intramurals “I may try to get a soccer team scheduled to take place this semes- together this year, depending on The campus will be offering ter are free; however, there is one my schedule.” table tennis (ping pong), dodge- exception. To play ice hockey, each Chris Kourounis, a fi rst-year ball and cricket tournaments, co- player must pay a fee of $50, and New Media Web Design student, ed indoor soccer, badminton and the team must consist of at least 12 says his awareness of intramural men’s and women’s four-on-four players. sports at the college last semester basketball. Each player must pay the fee, but was close to “non-existent.” Last semester the campus also one student can register an entire “I knew very little about intra- offered European handball, co-ed team. Unfortunately, the deadline murals, but I found out you could volleyball and ball hockey and to register for ice hockey passed put an ice hockey team together aerobic exercise classes. last month because of limited this year. Although I have not done If you are apprehensive about space, but the opportunity to reg- that, I have thought about all the joining an intramural sports pro- ister for various other intramural other possibilities and want to give gram because you feel a lack of sports still stands. one of them a try,” says Kourounis. skill, note the following. Drew Olah, a third-year Elec- He adds if you “put a little “Students may engage in tronic Engineering Technician thought into it” and “really look self-directed activities such as Page 14 NIAGARA NEWS Jan. 21, 2011 NEWS Community raises funds for Alzheimer’s 7th annual Walk ‘The event is Facts about for Memories in important to me Alzheimer’s St. Catharines because I never • It is a progressive, degenerative disease hopes to raise got to know my of the brain, causing thinking and memory to $50,000 grandmother’ become impaired. — Gregory Miller • It is unknown what By KIMBERLY SMITH causes Alzheimer’s Staff Writer disease or how to stop Fifty-seven Ontario communi- refrigerator], repeating words or three malls in the region: St. Catha- know me because of the effects of its progression. ties will be participating in this statements or diffi culty with every- rines, Niagara Falls and Welland,” Alzheimer’s.” year’s Alzheimer Society’s Walk day tasks like getting dressed can says Cook. “The status of Alzheimer’s and • Symptoms of the for Memories, including the Ni- all be warning signs.” Gregory Miller, a Niagara Col- Alzheimer’s sufferers will always disease can be similar to agara region.The walk raises funds The Niagara Region Alzheimer lege Public Relations Graduate be close to my heart because of that symptoms of other con- and awareness for the incurable Society provides many services Certifi cate program student, chose experience.” ditions such as depres- disease. to family members, to caretakers the walk for the event he must help With January being Alzheimer’s sion, thyroid or heart The seventh annual Niagara Re- and to individuals affected by the plan as a part of his program. awareness month, the Walk for disease, infections, drug gion Walk for Memories will take disease. “Specifi cally, I have been re- Memories is a chance for the pub- interactions or alcohol place on Sunday, Jan. 30, from 11 Chelsey Cook, special events co- cruiting teams, putting up posters lic to be directly involved. abuse. a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Pen Centre in ordinator, says the money raised and trying to raise awareness about “As much as we hold events to • The population of St. Catharines. goes directly to the client services the event,” says Miller. raise money, allowing family and Canada continues to Alzheimer Canada estimates programs, which include the family He says he participated in Walk- friends the chance to take a day age dramatically as the that 450,000 people – or one in 13 support programs, crisis manage- ing for Memories two years ago out to actually honour a loved one baby boomers reach 60. people over the age of 65 – have ment, the transportation program with his family to raise money and that they may have lost, or even Alzheimer’s disease is some form of dementia. It is an in- and caregiver support groups. participate as a team. those that are still with them, is ex- the second most feared curable, degenerative and terminal Cook says 200 people participat- “It was a great experience. We tremely important to the society,” disease by Canadians as disease that affects someone with ed in last year’s event and $47,000 had a lot of fun and it felt good says Cook. we age. more than just memory loss. was raised. to be helping out such a worthy Members of the public are en- Mary Schulz, national direc- The goal for this year’s walk in cause. This experience is part of couraged to get involved in the • Today, half a mil- tor of education at the Alzheimer St. Catharines is $50,000, with the why I chose this event this year.” event up until the day of the event, lion Canadians have Society, says, “This is an insidious provincial goal being $1.8 million. Like 36 per cent of Canadians, registering either as an individual Alzheimer’s disease disease. Most people associate “So far the walk has continued Miller knows someone affected or as a team. or a related dementia. memory loss with Alzheimer’s, but to grow year after year in both with Alzheimer’s disease. Anyone interested in participat- Approximately 71,000 it’s so much more. Sudden changes fundraising and the number of par- “The event is important to me ing or sponsoring a walker can of them are under age in mood, misplacing common ticipants. The long-term goal is to because I never got to know my fi nd more information at www. 65. household items [like keys in the run the event simultaneously in all grandmother, and she never got to walkformemories.ca.

YMCA encourages healthy living choices B@/

Staff Writer CBC Radio and CBC Television – ager of Dietitians of Canada. E/:3BB7<5/1/;>CA7<5@/<2@/>72A;7 Niagara’s YMCA dares locals to to promote and to inform the coun- Niagara residents can join the Live Right Now. try about the national program. By initiative by signing up on the YMCA, CBC and Canada’s the fi rst week of January, the CBC LiveRightNow.ca website. 1][^ZSbSg]c`POQVSZ]`¸aRSU`SS leading health and wellness or- had full week coverage on the state It is an online social network eWbV2OdS\^]`bC\WdS`aWbg ganizations have teamed up to of health in Canada. that connects communities across challenge the country to take part the nation. It is designed to give 2OdS\^]`bC\WdS`aWbgVOaRSdSZ]^SRRSU`SSQ][^ZSbW]\^O`b\S`aVW^a in a six-month national campaign individuals tools to help them bVObOZZ]eg]cb]b`O\aTS`Q`SRWbab]eO`ROPOQVSZ]`¸a]`[OabS`¸aRSU`SS called Live Right Now. The initia- achieve healthier lifestyles. tive will run from January to the The website features useful 2cSb]US\S`]cab`O\aTS`Q`SRWba[O\gU`ORcObSaeWbVObV`SS gSO`RW^Z][OQO\Q][^ZSbSOPOQVSZ]`¸aRSU`SSeWbVOaTSeOa end of June. tools such as recipes, the million- 2OdS\^]`bQZOaaSa The CBC, along with local pound nationwide pledge chal- YMCA centres and the Live Right lenge, daily fi tness challenges to 0S\S¿ba]TO\]\ZW\SRSU`SS( Now’s advisory board committee, encourage individuals to make ’<=D7A/A3O`\g]c`RSU`SSQ][^ZSbSZg]\ZW\S is motivating the country to live small changes, blogs written by ’ "%/D/7:/07:7BGBOYSQZOaaSaO\gbW[Se]`YO`]c\RaQVSRcZSR more healthy lifestyles by promot- health professionals and more. Q][[Wb[S\ba ing awareness and helping Cana- Bratt says when members join ’/44=@2/0:3AQV]ZO`aVW^a]`^O`b\S`aVW^bcWbW]\`ObSaO`SOdOWZOPZS dians to make smart and healthful the Niagara YMCA group under choices. the LiveRightNow.ca website, The Live Right Now advisory they will receive a two-week trial eeeROdS\^]`bSRcQO^O`b\S`a & !#! !^O`b\S`aVW^a.ROdS\^]`bSRc board consists of Breakfast for membership. E/:3BB7<5/1/;>CA7<5@/<2@/>72A Learning, the Canadian Diabetes A report done by the Niagara This is just one of the promo- Association, the Canadian Obesity Region Public Health Department, tions the YMCA will be offering 64516638 Network, Dietitians of Canada, called Overweight and Obesity in for the campaign, and there will be the Healthy Active Living and the Niagara Region, says, “From more events and promotions in the Obesity Research Group, the Heart 2001 to 2005 combined, 54.7 per future. Jan. 21, 2011 NIAGARA NEWS Page 15 NEWS Faith-teaching stays modern Museum Pastor uses contemporary methods for church services volunteers By EDEN ARMSTRONG Staff Writer celebrate the Out with the old and in with the new. Central Community Church in St. Catharines offers the teach- season and ings of the Bible with a fresh twist. Bill Markham, 41, lead pastor, has been with the church for more reminisce than nine years. He worked as the associate pastor until two years ago when he became lead pastor. By SAM CINO Markham is married and has three Staff Writer children: Reed, 16, Tessa, 14, and The Lincoln and Welland Regi- Garrett, who is in Grade 6. mental Museum volunteers came Markham says the church be- together for holiday cheer at their lieves in the three Cs – care, con- annual Christmas party on Dec. 2. nect and celebrate – and through Held at the elite St. Catharines their three locations in St. Catha- Club in the downtown area, vol- rines they spread their teachings. unteers from vehicle maintenance Each site – the Scott Street, down- and static displays in the museum town St. Catharines and Pen Centre enjoyed a fun-fi lled evening of one site – has its own live worship another’s company and spirited band and pastor, but the message is discussion over dinner and drinks, the same. with the fi replace providing some Their idea to incorporate new welcome warmth. media into their services makes it “We’ve been outside in the cold different from the churches people all day moving some new items we Lead pastor Bill Markham wanted to be a history teacher but found his true calling in the church. acquired,” says Terry McMillan. are used to going to. Submitted photo When you walk into the Scott Lieutenant- Colonel Jeff Cairns Street site, you are welcomed over YouTube, viral videos and tex- whether you are fi ve or 85. Central also makes a huge effort began the evening with a toast to and over again. As you walk in, ting are also used as ways to help As a youth leader at Central, Mi- to give back to the community. the Queen and summarized where there are giant screens and a stage defi ne and understand teachings chael Idzenga, 20, says the church With the initiative of families who the museum had been at the start set to play what would seem a full from the Bible in today’s culture. tries to stay up to date with what is attend the church, they have built of the year and where it plans to go set at any rock concert. As the With a team of staff and volun- modern. orphanages and dormitories for in 2011. He also toasted to the Lin- service starts, the music begins and teers, the church produces a service “The idea is to come to a place children in Africa, Guatemala and coln and Welland Regiment and it is hard to fi nd a seat in the full unlike any other. that is cool while also learning Asia as well as working with non- to the 10th Battery Artillery. He house. It has a print and publication about the teachings from the Bi- profi t organizations to give to local also voiced his opinion on starting The band, including a drummer department handling its monthly ble,” says Idzenga, who has gone charities such as Community Care on 1812 reenactment and tribute and bass player, play as the words magazine, The Loop. The produc- to Central since he was a child. He and Hannah’s House in Niagara group that would be a part of the to the songs are displayed onto the tion department takes care of the attends Brock University for Con- Falls. museum. He also had a surprise for large screens. stage design, and the media de- current Education with a major in “It isn’t about us,” says volunteer Victoria Virgoe. Markham comes on the stage, partment produces video for each biology. Markham. “We were made for “I understand it’s a special girl’s welcoming all, including guests. service. The worship arts team, The youth group at Central greatness.” 20th birthday today,” shouted He talks to the crowd and while headed by Greg Skyes, provides brings together young people from The church’s website, www. Cairns, who led the entire dining reading passages from the Bible, music for the services with a full Grades 7 to 12 every Wednesday centralcommunitychurch.ca, and room in a rousing performance throws in real-life experiences that band. night to learn about God while ex- its Twitter and Facebook accounts of Happy Birthday while Virgoe help to make everything come to- There is something for everyone periencing different activities like are only some of the ways to stay turned a bright shade of crimson. gether in today’s context. at Central Community Church media, drama and music. connected. “Victoria, that’s a good colour for you. It matches my shirt,” said her father, Derek. At dessert time, there was much Panel promotes understanding of religions jealousy, as the guests who ordered the apple pie were surprised. By STEPHANIE AZEVEDO weak philosophies and defi cient visions, but if a disagreement be- “It was good, but not what I Staff Writer notions of purgatory and its recon- gins the discussion is to end.” expected,” says one guest, who Adverse opinions were joined in ciling ways.” Wolf mentioned that although wishes to remain anonymous. one room, but that was hardly any Hassan Ahmed was up next world has been changing rapidly, “My son wouldn’t share his ice cause for alarm. to present on Islamic tolerance. despite huge developments, reli- cream,” says Helen Virgoe. “I think On Dec. 7, 13 people met at the He focused on the importance of gions still simply tolerate other I’m going to return his Christmas Welland campus, to discuss faith scholarship in Muslim countries, religions, and that “all are free to gifts,” she joked. and tolerance in a panel featuring saying, “A lot of the differences harbour distrust.” Former and current military representatives from Christianity, between Sunni and Shi’a come Ahmed also disliked the word members who belong to the mu- Islam and the Baha’i Faith. from differences in wording [in the “tolerance” as it means to simply seum shared many stories. Each was given 20 minutes for Qur’an]. You can read the exact endure something. “One time I had to tow a truck a presentation, after which a ques- same text and come to very differ- He says, “We can do more than that had sped off the highway and tion period followed. ent conclusions.” tolerate people. We can understand landed in some trees,” says Rich- The questions were asked fi rst of During the question period, people. We can accept people ... If ard Bucko. panelists and next from audience Ahmed said, “A lot of the tolerance you don’t try to understand and ac- “When I got to the trees, they members. in Islam has been overlooked be- cept people, you look at them in a were over 30 feet tall and there was Professor David Goicoechea cause of a few bad seeds. There’s very superfi cial way.” no way I could get the truck down represented Christianity in his a lot of propaganda, agendas, in Rev. Dr. Prince Conteh has without destroying it entirely. It presentation on the intolerance of terms of the media. [Extremism] is regularly held these panels. How- was, naturally, a write-off.” Protestants to their Catholic coun- in every religion.” ever, according to Sheryl Johns, He is thinking about writing a terparts. Mehdi Wolf was last with a slide manager of Student Services, the book about all his memories be- He explained that the 96 theses show. As he represented the Baha’i chaplaincy service on campus has cause “nobody believes me when of Martin Luther were really “the- Faith, which is founded on a belief been cancelled. I tell them all the crazy stuff that ses of hate” because of the way of acceptance for all religions, he Johns also says that, “Although happened.” they denounced many of the things used many quotes from Christian- we will no longer be offering on- The museum volunteers meet on Catholics love, such as “Mary, mo- ity and Islam to make his point. campus chaplaincy services in a Thursdays either at Butler’s Bar- nasticism, mysticism, popes and “Baha’is will not exalt their faith formal way, the Student Services racks near Fort George in Niagara- Mehdi Wolf presented the Baha’i the seven sacraments.” above others,” he says. Division will continue to support on-the-Lake or at the “Chicken Faith’s opinions during the faith Goicoechea says, “Catholics are “They love all and see enemies students through our links and Barn” at the end of Carlton Street and tolerance panel on Dec. 7. thankful to Protestants for getting as friends by emphasizing similar- resources in the Niagara faith com- and Townline Road in Niagara-on- Photo by Stephanie Azevedo them to think about bad popes, ity. They will share their faith and munity.” the-Lake. Page 16 NIAGARA NEWS Jan. 21, 2011 SPORTS

Niagara IceDogs goaltender Mark Visentin attempting to make a save during a practice at the Gatorade Garden City Complex in St. Catharines. Photos courtesy of Joel Smith Silver lining for IceDogs goalie Mark Visentin opens up about his experience on Team Canada By JEFF BLAY Although Canada suffered a North American goalies by the game returning to his OHL team on Staff Writer heart breaking 5-3 loss in the gold NHL Central Scouting Bureau, Sunday, Jan. 9, and looks to build It was a short trip from St. medal round to the underdog Rus- and was eventually selected by the on that momentum and factor in Catharines to Buffalo, N.Y., for sian team, winning a silver medal Phoenix Coyotes in the fi rst round what he learned in Buffalo. Team Canada World Junior goal- at the World Juniors in a Canadian (27th overall) of the 2010 NHL “It was a good fi rst game back; tender Mark Visentin, and although jersey is something Visentin will Entry Draft. I felt a bit tired but that’s under- the tournament was in the United never forget. Only one other goaltender was standable after playing in a big States, the 18-year-old puckster The annual tournament put on by picked in the fi rst round, and tournament,” Visentin says. “At felt right at home. the International Ice Hockey Fed- that was American World Junior the same time it’s good to get that “It was amazing, a ton of fun eration (IIHF) is held in a different nemesis Jack Campbell, who was game under my belt and move from the hotel out,” Visentin city and country each year, show- selected 11th overall by the Dallas forward. laughs. “Playing games in front of casing some of the world’s most Stars. “We’re obviously a strong team almost 20,000 rocking Canadian promising young talent in a brief From there came the invitation this year and have high expecta- fans was an unreal experience. It tournament held from Boxing Day to the Hockey Canada develop- tions, and I also expect myself to was a really big thrill to be out into the second week of January. ment camp. step up and be a guy who can help there and have our whole nation “I gained a ton of experience After an impressive performance carry the team through the rest of behind us on American soil.” there; playing a couple big games over the summer and in the fi nal the season and into the playoffs.” Canada went into the tourna- in the quarters and semis and of selection camp this past December, If there’s one thing Visentin can ment with what head coach Dave course the gold medal game, it was Visentin was one of two goalies take from the gold medal loss, it’s Cameron said to be “a blue-collar a special thing to be a part of,” he named to the team. to take things as they come. team,” with the United States being says. “Things didn’t go my way in It was only fi tting that Visentin “You can’t look too far ahead. the tournament favourites. the fi nal game, but at the same time heard the news from fellow goal- You have to take things day by day After goaltending partner Olivier I learned a lot of positive things ‘You can’t look tender and tournament roommate and game by game,” the young Roy had a few tough games early that I can bring back to the team Olivier Roy during the fi nal morn- goaltender explains. “There’s in the tournament, Visentin was here [Niagara], and there was a lot too far ahead. ing of camp. times when you’re up on teams and given the call to start in the quarter of memories I will cherish too.” “It was cool to hear it from him; there’s times when you’re on your fi nal game against Switzerland,. The Waterdown, Ont., native You have to take we’d roomed together since the heels, and you just have to learn After defeating the Swiss, he led has been playing with the Niagara things day by camp in Toronto from Dec. 11 on, to adapt to every situation and not Canada past the U.S. in the semi- IceDogs since his draft year in so for us we became really close, stress too much about the past or fi nal round. 2008 when the team selected him day and game by good friends and I have lots of re- future.” in the third round (54th overall) of spect for him,” explains Visentin. the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) game.’ “He’s a great goaltender and a real Priority Selection. character guy, and he’s defi nitely a Along with the support of his Visentin friend I’ll have for a long time.” family and friends, the backing After a heartbreaking outcome to he has from the IceDogs’ fans and “Having our fans in Niagara the tournament for himself and the organization has been a huge part supporting both me and the team rest of Canada, Visentin maintains of Visentin’s success. is huge, and having them behind us a positive attitude and is now shift- “It’s great to have support here for the rest of the way is going to ing his focus to the remainder of in Niagara and back home,” the make things a lot easier and a lot the OHL season with the IceDogs. 6’2’’, 201-pounder exclaimed. “It’s of fun.” Visentin picked up an IceDogs a really comforting feeling to know After playing his fi rst full season win against fellow Canadian team- they have my back all the time; it’s with the IceDogs in 2009-2010, mate Erik Gudbranson and the almost hard to describe. Visentin was ranked fourth among Kingston Frontenacs in his fi rst