Election ’08: It’s your decision - page 10-11

NIAGARATHE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER OF NIAGARA NEW COLLEGE S FREE October 10, 2008 Vol 39 • Issue 2 Students living on pennies By CORY WILKINS Staff Writer Many college students face chal- urtle lenges during their fi rst year and liv- ing on a budget is just one of them. T Students, forced to adapt to new surroundings, often struggle with new experiences such as student living, orientation and an increase in the amount of schoolwork. Not all students battle with these issues, although living on a budget is one most have in common. A college program may only be a oving few short years, but the expenses can linger for much longer. Some L experts project the average cost of post-secondary education to be upwards of $10,000 per year. Liv- ing on a budget will help keep that estimated cost to a minimum. Many students apply for the On- tario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) – an interest-free student loan – as well as for a number of other ause fi nancial aids and grants, yet the fi - See page 7 nancial burden can still be painful. C According to the Ontario College Application Services, the average cost of one year’s tuition is about $3,500. Add the cost of residence or house rent – roughly $5,000 per school year – and not much money is left from that estimated $10,000. “The best advice I can give stu- dents about living on a budget is to plan ahead,” said Darren Gray, 23, a student of the Business Administration – Professional Golf Management program at the Niagara-on-the-Lake campus. “Prospective students should plan their budget for the year, but also break that down into monthly or weekly budgets. Submitted photo Continued on page 2 NEVER A COVER WITH NIAGARA ID. Wednesdays Wednesdays Not Sponsored by Niagara College or SAC www.mooseandgoose.comNiagara’s Biggest 54 FRONT ST., THOROLD, 905.227.6969 email: [email protected] Niagara’sStudent BiggestPub63264902 Night Student Pub Night Page 2 NIAGARA NEWS Oct. 10, 2008 on campus NIAGARA NEWS Student’s eff orts go to W.A.S.T.E. By RACHEL SCAPILLATI to the coastal community,” she Staff Writer added. “Everyone was gathered The grass is greener than emer- together to plan where the future 14/1514/15 Food Festival alds. The fl owers are more vivid of the project was going.” than jewels. The monsoons are Besides the great responsibility INDEX more lively than the tamed storms Newhouse shouldered, there was 2 ...... On Campus of a summer’s day in Canada. also the singularly enchanting 4 ...... Editorial & Opinion Still, to Amanda Newhouse, opportunity to visit a city much 18...... Off Campus suffering through a few monsoons different from any in Canada. 21...... Sports was worth seeing Goa, India. “There were cows in the middle 24 ...... Arts & Entertainment “I never could have dreamed of of the road,” Newhouse says in 27...... Lifestyles doing this,” Newhouse confessed. jovial recollection. “I am from “For me, this was like ‘wow!’” Wainfl eet and I pass by cows Newhouse, 20, a second-year every day on the way to school, Tourism Management Business but now they were in the middle Development program student at of the road.” the Niagara-on-the-Lake campus She enjoyed the architecture (NOTL), was hired by the Interna- and culture of Goa. tional Education and Development “I loved the food,” Newhouse offi ce (IED) in April as part of her said. “For the fi rst [few days]. I program’s co-op completion. overloaded on curry. In the second 1818 GrapeGrape && WineWine Along with her co-op, she was week, I was not so much in love assigned to attend a 10-day trip with it.” to Goa, India, from June 15 to 25 Many of Goa’s dishes, includ- this past summer with a group of ing lots of curry and a fi sh dish Josh Levine, 91, of St. Catharines, relaxes before beginning the Walk a 26 people. called tandoori, Newhouse was Mile in Her Shoes march through the Pen Centre. The purpose of the trip was to not accustomed to, but nothing Photo by Lesleigh Misener “highlight the interconnectedness compared to the weather. between the W.A.S.T.E. (Working “It was humid and monsoon Towards Achievable and Sustain- season, so it was raining all the Men in pumps raise able Training for the Environment) time,” she said. 2020 ElectricElectric VehiclesVehicles community, health and livelihood Unfortunately, this meant most through W.A.S.T.E. awareness ... of her time in Goa was spent in- eyebrows and awareness in the Galle region,” Newhouse doors, but there were a few occa- By LESLEIGH MISENER The symbolic gesture of men explained. sions she got to explore. Staff Writer walking a mile in women’s shoes, The Galle region is in Sri Lanka, “Driving is absolutely crazy Lime-green platforms, hot-pink the brainchild of Frank Baird, but because of civil unrest in the there,” she recalled. “I could pumps and glamourous sandals began in California in 2001 with nation, the team met in Goa. never sit in the front seat because found their way across the slick the hope of raising awareness and The W.A.S.T.E. project is fund- I would have been sick.” tiles of the Pen Centre this week- drawing attention to the issues ed by the Canadian International What Newhouse did get to see 2424 McKennaMcKenna end on the feet of some fearless of violence against women and Development Agency and admin- of the Indian countryside was lush Niagara men and boys. children. istered by the Association of Ca- and very green, “quite a difference Participants in the Gillian’s The event provides men an op- nadian Community Colleges. The from Canada.” Place fundraiser “Walk a Mile in portunity to publicly speak out trip was arranged for Newhouse “It was just beautiful,” she said. Her Shoes” donned unfamiliar against domestic violence, and to by the IED. “This experience has increased footwear and made their way down provide fi nancial support to wom- Her part was originally to be my global understanding,” New- the corridors of the Pen Centre in en’s shelters and rape-crisis centres assistant international events co- house said. “It has helped me to an effort to draw attention to the through fundraising efforts. ordinator, but when the manager of develop skills that will be essen- issue of domestic violence. Gillian’s Place, a St. Catha- this position, Kyla Pennie, could tial to the workforce.” The fundraising effort garnered rines women’s shelter, provides not attend because of personal In addition to being the events 25 IronmanIronman $31,400 with the aid of about 125 emergency shelter, 24-hour crisis reasons, Newhouse found herself co-ordinator in Goa, Newhouse Niagara News is a practical lab for Journalism-Print participants, ranging in age from counseling, legal advocacy and in charge. was in charge of many community program students at Niagara College. Opinions 12 to 91 years old. community outreach services. “I was responsible for logistics, awareness events at the Welland expressed in editorials and columns are not those marketing, invitations, registration and NOTL campuses. of Niagara College management or administration. and fi nances,” Newhouse said. “It Sept. 25 was her last day at the Columns, identified as such, reflect only the writer’s was a big step for me [being in IED, and she now returns to NOTL opinion. Student budgeting charge].” to complete her program. Readers are welcome to respond to columnists Continued from Page 1 fi nancially. Living on a budget In addition to these responsibili- “With this co-op I’ve learned by e-mail at [email protected] “New students should plan ahead does not mean having no fun, but ties, she also did the development, things you can’t learn in a class- Advertising rules: The advertiser agrees that the by fi nding as much information it is a lot more fun to have the designing and carrying out of room,” Newhouse said. “It was publisher shall not be liable for damages arising as possible about their expenses.” money than not. Having money for stakeholder workshops. something that really made a dif- out of errors in advertisements beyond the amount Gray, enrolled in a number of fun can occur with smart money “The main goal was really to ference in the Galle community of paid for the space actually occupied by the portion accounting, capital budgeting and management. For some, living on introduce environmental solutions Sri Lanka.” of the advertisement in which the error occurred. All fi nancial management courses, a budget means being creative and advertisers are asked to check their advertisements after first insertion. Errors, which do not lessen the says it is important to analyze being able to match their lifestyle. value of the advertisement, are not eligible for correc- your budget, and it never hurts to It is also important to establish the tions by a make-good advertisement. Niagara News have an eye for bargains. One of difference between wants and needs, reserves the right to edit, revise, classify or reject the most costly expenses is school or not going over budget with un- any advertisement. materials, and more specifi cally, the necessary expenses. For example, it cost of textbooks, with the average is far more important to pay rent than Correction cost being $500 per school year. it is to go out to dinner or to a movie. “If new students can fi nd used Pat Powers, 19, a fi rst-year student In a report published in the Sept. textbooks that are in relatively good in the Recreation and Leisure Ser- 26 edition of Niagara News, two condition, they should jump at it. vices program, agrees that living errors were made in the story “First The cost of used books is a frac- on a budget has been a challenge. Nations students encounter chal- tion of the cover price,” Gray said. “It has been a change for sure, lenges” on page 8. The corrections For students with good time man- although the biggest challenge are the AEMC stands for Aborigi- agement, a part-time job is also an for me has been establishing a nal Education Management Circle option that can help reduce their living budget separate from a and Karen Piccirillo was appointed money concerns. beer budget,” laughed Powers. student adviser this year. “It always helps if there is some If there was just one point to It is the policy of Niagara News income, even if it just a few hun- make, it is this: keep it simple and dred dollars per month,” said Gray. know your budget. Having a healthy to correct errors of fact. We apolo- Amanda Newhouse, second-year Tourism Management — Business It is important to know how much budget can make the college experi- gize for any inconvenience. Development program student, travelled to Goa, India. money you have and how you stand ence that much more gratifying. Photo by Rachel Scapillati Oct. 10, 2008 NIAGARA NEWS Page 3 on campus Mook gets conditional discharge

By LAURA WIKSTON Staff Writer A 19-year-old St. Catharines man received a conditional discharge for his role last year in a gun scare incident that locked down Niagara College’s Welland campus. Daniel Lucas Mook appeared before Justice D.T. Vyse on Oct. 8 in the Ontario Court of Justice Criminal Division, Welland, on the charge of possession of a concealed weapon. In a joint submission by Crown Attorney Pat Vadachino and Mook’s lawyer, Peter Barr, Vyse said she agreed to the conditional discharge. Under the terms of the conditions, Mook agreed to keep the peace and practise good behav- iour. He can’t purchase or consume alcohol and must report to a pro- bation offi cer whenever required. He is restricted from possessing weapons or ammunition for fi ve years and must forfeit the weapon used in the incident. If he can show proof of a job opportunity in west- ern Canada, he will be allowed to leave Ontario. Mook was charged Sept. 14, 2007, after entering the college grounds around 4 p.m. with an unloaded pellet gun. The college was locked down and evacuated. Niagara Regional Police offi cers Daniel Mook, 19, leaves court Wednesday with his parents after facing weapons and mischief charges. arrested him a little before 5 p.m. Photo By Laura Wikston Mook was enrolled in the Police incident. He became upset because college security told police Mook photograph of his arrest. defence that Mook clearly showed Foundations program at the time of he could not fi x his car and had no appeared “droopy-eyed,” slurred Mook spent nine days in custody bad judgment by bringing the his arrest. In agreeing to the joint money to do so. He planned to his words and was not alert. before being released on bail. weapon to school, but agreed that submission, Vyse took into consid- sell some personal possessions, By 11:45 p.m., while in custody, He was under house arrest, with Mook should be able to enter eration Mook’s age and the circum- including the Walther CO2 sports Mook appeared confused about the exception of being at and going adult life in a manner that won’t stances leading to his arrest. air pistol he had in his possession where he was and why he was to work, until his trial. hinder him. Barr told the court Mook had when arrested. under arrest. He has received counselling for Mook has no previous record been drinking vodka, while work- Court heard that throughout the He didn’t understand what he alcohol abuse. and has kept out of trouble since ing on his car, on the day of the incident, civilian witnesses and had done until he was shown a Vyse agreed with the Crown and the incident. Benni the robot helps children smile By JOSEPH CASSIDY a droid named B1N1, or Benni, lives I could walk,” said McCrackin. ogy program co-ordinator Lois John- and use voice commands. The prob- Staff Writer right here on the Welland campus in “Anything from combining my own son said, “Well, I know the kids love lem is that artifi cial intelligence in We all remember this movie’s open- the Skills Technology Building. toys when young and, when I got Benni. We have school tours that come robots is way off. With the current rate ing line: A long time ago, in a galaxy The creator of the droid, Cam older, I built devices that rolled along here, and Cam will get Benni to squirt of expansion in computer technology, far, far away…cue the orchestra and McCrackin, 37, is a graduate of the the fl oors. I even had a computer- water at them. Cam has taken Benni to I would guess-timate we are at least the Star Wars theme. Niagara College Electronics and controlled robot when I was around a number of different events.” 50 to 75 years away from having even All the characters in the movie were Electrical Engineering program and is 12 years old. It’s been a hobby and “Cam built Benni from scratch and the most rudimentary robots. They fantasy fi gures, especially the droids – employed as a member of the Niagara passion of mine for years and years.” put a lot of work into it. It’s good PR will never be self-aware like the Star R2D2 and C3PO – but fantasy could College support staff. “Benni is based loosely on a Star [public relations] and we are always Wars robots, but it is within striking become reality in our lifetime. In fact, “I have been building robots since Wars droid. He is classed as a mini- looking to bring kids into the program distance of having something that is droid, and he is not actually the full and Benni is certainly a good attrac- like a droid. My personal belief is that size or scale of R2D2. tion for them.” they might not obtain this goal. It is “He is my own design, based on the The program has a high success the Holy Grail of robotics and pro- parts I had available. My son Caleb rate for graduating students and is helped me build him.” designed to get students working in gramming to come up with this robot “My dad and me have been build- the industry. that is self-aware. ing robots ever since I can remember,” “All of our students either go into “For instance the robots in the said Caleb. “I really enjoy it.” work or on to university,” said John- movie I, Robot [Will Smith, 2006] are “He is basically a remote-controlled son. “Very rarely do we have a student bi-pedal, and they are still a long way puppet to get people’s attention for that doesn’t get a job, and students off. Bi-pedal robots are still in their special events such as Help a Child make good money. Overall it’s just a infancy, but they do have robots that Smile. Help a Child Smile is a fund- great program for anyone interested in will do amazing things. raiser that was held at Club Richelieu engineering.” “Researchers are still working in in Welland. I was there for about eight Is Benni going to be roaming the collision avoidance, obstacle avoid- hours and the kids loved him [Benni]. halls of Niagara College and assisting ance and getting robots to walk on They were climbing all over him, and students in their everyday life? uneven terrains, so they are a long the parents were asking lots of ques- “The droids in Star Wars are im- way off.” tions. Once I get people’s attention, I practical as robots; in fact, Benni has We will be fl ying into outer space can talk about mechanical engineering a very high centre of gravity because with our droids in the near future? at the college,” said McCrackin. of his design,” said McCrackin. “He “Not in the near future,” says Mc- The Mechanical Engineering tends to do front fl ips if his wheel gets Crackin, “but what we are saying is Technlogy co-op program here is caught in something. As a mechanical let’s dream about this a little bit.” excellent road for aspiring engineers design, he is not the greatest robot – To meet Benni, go to the Computer to start their career, and McCrackin but neither is R2D2.” Integrated Manufacturing Lab in TC36 Cam McCrackin, 37, and B1N1 (Benni) in the Computer Integrated and Benni are assets for marketing the “Robots that perform the same tasks at the Welland campus and bring safety Manufacturing Lab in (TC36) at Welland campus. program. as droids are coming along. We have glasses. To see how Benni was made, Photo by Joseph Cassidy Mechanical Engineering Technol- robots now that help the handicapped check out www.astromechfactory.com. Page 4 NIAGARA NEWS Oct. 10, 2008 editorial & opinion NIAGARA NEWS

Editor: Mallory Bresolin Associate Editor: Jessica Moyse Assistant Editor: Cory Wilkins Photo Editor: Mike Sheeler

Acting Publisher: Kim Walker Managing Editor: George Duma Associate Managing Editor: Phyllis Barnatt Design/Layout Consultant: Peter Conradi Editorial Consultants: Gary Erb, Nancy Geddie Photography Consultant: Dave Hanuschuk

B2, 300 Woodlawn Rd., 2006 WINNER Welland, Ont., L3C 7L3 2006 WINNER Telephone: (905) 735-2211 Fax: (905) 736-6003 Editorial e-mail: [email protected] Advertising e-mail: [email protected] Acting Publisher’s e-mail: [email protected] Photo illustration by Chris Carr Lack of sex education boosts Car theft victims – save reliance on vaccination

sexual education taught to Editorial a few, sacrifi ce the rest? children in school. The day has come when it Someone is trying to sweep and Protection of Privacy Act or safety hazard to the public is easier to vaccinate against the topic of safe sex under the states that the purposes of the says, section 11 (1), the heads are the repercussions of unsafe rug, and youth continue to pay act are to protect the privacy obliged to give the information. of individuals with respect to Is the safety of our vehicles not sexual behaviour than it is to for it. personal information about important enough? It seems that teach and practice safe sex. No one knows what the themselves held by institutions because this is a college newspaper, Recently there has been a push vaccines repercussions will be. and to provide the individuals we are given the younger sibling for children as young as nine Some recipients experience with a right to access that in- treatment. to be vaccinated against the immediate reactions to the shot, formation. Maybe this isn’t the heads’ human papillomavirus (HPV). including itching, redness at the Sounds simple. You ask and fault. They are as confused by From radio and TV ads, to a site of the injection, pain, fever, you shall receive. This is actually the machine of legislature as I not true. When I was covering the find myself being sometimes. complex Facebook group, the swelling, nausea, vomiting, break-ins, do you think I could fi nd This act, and the people who campaign against HPV is meant fainting and dizziness. the names of the individuals who enforce it, are doing more harm to target young women ages There are no indications of had had their cars broken into? than good. The 14 people who nine to 26. what long-term reactions there Section 10 (1) of the same act had their belongings stolen may The vaccine available in will be. states “that every person has a be safe, but what about the rest Canada protects against four It is not a vaccination critical By CHRIS CARR right to access to a record or a of the college’s students? Save a Columnist strains of HPV, which make in protecting the spread of part of a record in the custody or few, sacrifi ce the rest? The establishment, the bureau- under the control of an institution I may have had to look the word up a total of 70 per cent of measles or meningitis. This is crats, the government, the man, unless (b) the head is of the opin- up, but I can tell you know that the cases of cervical cancer a vaccination for diseases that call it what you will, but what I call ion on reasonable grounds that the my intent was not vexatious in the and two types that cause 90 can be avoided through the it is a lack of progress. Recently, I request for access is frivolous or slight. And frivolous? per cent of genital wart cases. education of youth in Canada. was assigned a story regarding the vexatious.” No, trying to tell the stories of It is obvious abstinence is not the Worldwide, every year, recent vehicle break-ins at Niagara The approval sits on the Niagara College students being only option in the 21st century, 288,000 women die from College. The Welland, Niagara- shoulders of the people in robbed, at school, is not a frivolous but vaccination is not the answer. cervical cancer caused by HPV. on-the-Lake and Maid of the Mist charge, and the information is pursuit, certainly not to the victims It is an excuse for defi cient Avoid contracting HPV by campuses have been hit a total of relinquished at their discretion. of these burglaries. 14 times since the beginning of I wonder if these people have If you are one of these victims teaching and laziness on behalf practicing safe sex, not because September. read the act. and you don’t see my intentions as of the government, school you chose to get the vaccine. Now, my beef is with pri- Also, if the point of getting the vexatious or frivolous please con- boards and parents. vacy laws. Section 1 (b) of information is for public interest tact me. I’d love to tell your story. Many people don’t want MALLORY BRESOLIN the Freedom of Information or a grave environmental, health [email protected]

Visit our new website niagara-news.com Current news and complete archives of all Niagara News editions since 2001 Oct. 10, 2008 NIAGARA NEWS Page 5 editorial & opinion Harper gives Canada the (Gold)fi nger Left must unite Editorial The only party representing the right is the Conservative In the Sept. 18 issue of Pulse Party of Canada. On the left are magazine, writer Sean Wilson four: the Liberal Party, the New wrote, “The Conservatives Democratic Party (NDP), the will win another minority Bloc Quebecois and the Green government on Oct. 14, not Party. Although the leftist on their strength, but [on] parties are distinguishable from the difference of choice for each other as having slightly right and left minded folks.” differing views on varying In his article, Wilson was topics of interest, their hearts referring to the concept of are essentially in the same vote splitting. In the American place. This situation is the political system, one party, reason Stephen Harper will the Democrats, represents win on Oct. 14: there are too the left and one party, the many options for the lefties. Republicans, represent the For instance, if 60 per cent of right. As a stark contrast to the the population is voting for the American system, in an effort left, divided among four parties, to give more people a voice, it is unlikely one party will gain Canada has many more parties. the 41 per cent it will need to In theory, this idea is a defeat Harper’s 40 per cent. positive one, as Canadians are As the Conservative party was perceived as being more free created by uniting the right, thinking than their American is such an amalgamation of counterparts, not confi ned by the left such a terrible idea? It such a defi nitive viewpoint. In would appear that the only way practice, this idea has potentially a lefty is going to regain power ruined the chances of any left- after the Liberal Party’s major wing party to ever win again. screw-up is if the whole left Sixteen parties registered for side of the political spectrum the upcoming federal election; can just put aside their minor however, it is unlikely that any differences, sit down and break of the parties, aside from the fi gurative bread, much like the following fi ve, will garner the pilgrims and Indians did around A federal debate in review 150 votes they will need to even this time so many years ago. factor in at the federal level. JESSICA MOYSE members all preaching their mes- to generate jobs as we lose jobs sages and pushing for camera time. and we have done that,” said Layton, one of the more vocal Harper. on the evening, attacked Harper Through most of the debate it Economic crisis relentlessly. The other leaders was four against one as the vari- followed suit, taking the attack to ous party leaders ganged up on the current prime minister every Harper. Few times did the four of in forefront of chance they got. Layton, Dion, Duceppe and May The major issues addressed turn on each other. They directed refl ected those of the voters. Jobs, most of their debate energies at economy, leadership and environ- Harper and the Conservatives. political platforms ment were among the most im- The issues switched to the econ- portant. With recent job losses in omy, being so closely related to manufacturing and the closing of the job market. When asked about Canadians care as much as Ameri- By MIKE SHEELER many high profi le plants, the job the economy directly, Harper re- cans do about their economy. Columnist market was a hot button issue. sponded, “We are in a slow-down, We continually pay more money “Either you don’t care or “Ninety-fi ve hundred jobs were not a recession.” for goods, even when they are you’re incompetent. Which is it?” lost in Canada in July,” said Du- May was less than enamoured manufactured in Canada and pay demanded Jack Layton, leader ceppe. with Harper’s economic direction. gas prices that go up and down of the New Democratic Party, Layton added to the barrage: “It’s dangerous,” she said. every time someone’s head nods to Stephen Harper, leader of the “Take some responsibility here. Dion added his party’s two It’s a joke that never gets old. Conservative Party. Jobs have been lost.” cents’ worth. “We will not increase Canada and the US are both The English televised federal Harper responded to the attack taxes; we will maintain.” close to election day. Each party is electoral debate on Oct. 2 came in kind. “But other jobs have been “The NDP has the best record using the current economic crisis one night after the French equiva- made while these ones have been for balancing budgets,” added to argue for the party’s platform. lent. Steve Paikin, a prominent lost.” The argument continued. Layton. Politicians are all to blame. Canadian broadcast journalist, May questioned the quality of jobs The debate wound down out Whoever thought it would be moderated the debate panel of fi ve replacing the old ones. She sub- with the issues of environment a good idea to offer mortgages leaders: Harper for the Conserva- mitted that the lost jobs are higher and leadership. The carbon tax, By MALLORY BRESOLIN to people who can’t afford it, or tives, Layton for the NDP, Liberal paying than the replacements. green jobs and sustainability of Columnist to send manufacturing jobs to Party leader Stephane Dion, Bloc Even moderator Paikin had ques- resources were key issues within You’ve heard about it one way or Mexico, should be fi red without a Quebecois leader Gilles Duceppe tions for Harper. “Are those 100,000 environment. Each party ques- another and if you haven’t, you’ve severance package. and newcomer Elizabeth May, jobs [lost in the past two years across tioned the other’s ability to lead. been living under a rock. It’s more than likely the money leader of the Green Party. Canada] lost for good?” Throughout the debate Duceppe All eyes are on the stock market, from each of their salaries and sev- Paikin found it hard to enforce “We are investing in new sci- and Dion treaded water while Lay- and while Canadians are worried erance packages will help take a the debate at times, with fi ve panel ences and technologies. We need ton and May made great strides about their economy, they aren’t as large chunk out of the national debt for themselves as political lead- worried as Americans. and the bailout plan US congress We welcome your opinion ers and for their party’s profi le. The top news stories for many passed last week. E-mail: [email protected] • Harper stood up remarkably well major Canadian and American The US bailout is close to the top Mail: B2, 300 Woodlawn Rd., to the whirlwind of accusations news outlets tell of global markets of the list of terrible things George Welland,Ont. L3C 7L3 and questions from his opponents, crashing, manufacturing sector job Bush did for America. In Person: Room B2, Welland campus. • leaving him in good position head- losses, $700-billion bailouts and Politicians can argue until they Policy: All letters must be signed ing towards the election. After all Freddie and Fannie. are blue in the face, but the econ- and include a day and evening phone contact number for verification was said and done, the candidates Granted, the situation in the US omy, Canadian and American, has purposes. shook hands and left the podium is much more dire than in Canada, visibly worsened since Bush was waiting for Oct. 14, election day. but one can’t help but wonder if elected eight years ago. Page 6 NIAGARA NEWS Oct. 10, 2008 on campus College chooses green for After Hours By KRISTIN KAYE to attempt this eco-friendly proj- Staff Writer ect with regard to food service, It’s not easy being green, but SAC inquiries were made to see if any is certainly going to give it a try. other businesses had decided to The Student Administrative give it a try. Council (SAC) held a ribbon- According to Compostech sta- cutting ceremony, complete with tistics, the Niagara-on-the-Lake cake and live entertainment, Oct. 3 Golf and Country Club and The to launch After Hours’ new initia- Riverbend Inn, also in Niagara-on- tive of using only biodegradable the-Lake, are two places getting on fl atware and cutlery. board, and he is hoping that more SAC President Heather Minow food service businesses will join in. was pleased with the overall atten- “We’ve all driven down the dance at the Welland campus event. street or walked the sidewalk and “We were looking for represen- have seen a plastic knife or fork tation from a couple of different or a Styrofoam container or a beer avenues, students, faculty. We had cup. If those things are made from members of the NEC [Niagara bio-based materials, it’s called a Environmental Corps] present and ‘cradle to cradle’ system. It starts we also had a couple of political out as soil, something grows in representatives here to show their it, you turn that something into a support for the cause.” product and eventually it becomes Clarke Bitter, president and soil again.” CEO of the year-old company Minow is very pleased with the P&C Compostech, explains the attendance at this event because it is options available for disposing of the fi rst public step from SAC with their products. regard to environmental awareness, “Basically you have three op- but it is by no means the last. There tions once you are fi nished. If is talk of a larger step further down you were to take it home from a the road, but fi rst more needs to be done at the college. restaurant, for example, put it in On hand for the ceremonial ribbon cutting at the Student Administrative Council’s “Going Green” your green bin and let the Region announcement on Oct. 3 were, at left, James Davison, CEO, Davidson Environmental Organic Waste Specialist; “We’re doing what we’re going pick it up, put it in your backyard Clarke Bitter, president and CEO, P & C Compostech Inc; Sean Kennedy, Niagara College vice-president of to call an assessment and canvas composter and use it for soil for Student and Community Relations; Heather Minow, SAC president; Cindy Blanchard, Niagara College SAC the entire student centre/SAC offi ce your own backyard, or landfi ll it. Inc. general manager; and Jennifer Marasco, Student Centres manager. area, looking at what we can do Landfi ll is the least attractive of Submitted photo to make it more environmentally the options. However, it does get friendly. We’re going to do this with landfi lled and does still decom- leadership and a willingness to try awareness. ment from NOTL. the help of the NEC and fi gure out pose in the landfi ll.” something new, and this is a prime “The NEC determined that our “We’re hoping that since SAC what sort of avenues are available.” Sean Kennedy, Niagara Col- example. The fact that they won main building alone throws away has a compost program set up now This week is Green Week lege vice-president of student and the College of Ontario award last more than 1,000 Tim Hortons that maybe we could get on board for SAC, with daily activities community relations, is also the year for innovation is impressive. cups every day. ... We took all the and start composting too on cam- planned, such as a No Utensils executive liaison to the council They should be winning the award cups and strung them up on the pus, which a bunch of our NEC Day, when everything is edible and is proud to be associated with again this year.” banister. It was a real visual im- students are interested in starting a using hands only, and for the en- the NEC. Natelee Tokar, research proj- pact for students, to see how much project on. The Niagara Culinary tire week, all lights will be turned “I’m just always so impressed ect manager for the Niagara-on- is wasted in just one day.” Institute composts, but they are off to conserve energy. For more by the quality of our student the-Lake (NOTL) campus, tells Shannon Fletcher, co-ordinator the only building at our campus to information, see the fl yers posted government and the SAC staff. of a waste audit and experiment for the NEC, says she was pleased do so at this time.” around campus and drop by the What I’ve seen in the three years that was conducted on the cam- to be invited to the event and Since Niagara College is one SAC offi ce to pick up a monthly I’ve been at the college is strong pus last year to promote waste expresses high hopes for involve- of the first schools in the region schedule. Students choose convenience over health By JORDAN NUNZIATO Sonenberg, 26. Staff Writer Is it not as easy to grab a sub Most often the student body will or soup? choose grease over green. Broadcasting – Radio, Television Given Niagara College’s bal- and Film student Jeremy Leclair, anced selection of cafeteria food, 22, says, “I want to be able to eat students prefer less nutritious items, better, but it’s become a habit to an unscientifi c survey shows. grab a Pepsi and chips. It’s quick Police Foundations student Ja- and I know what I’m getting.” son Deitz, 20, says, “When you’re He adds, “Subs and soup are un- feeling stressed, you feel the need known to me. They’re pre-packaged to indulge in comfort food. Eating items that could or could not be good. things like pizza and chips give me I like to stick with what I know.” immediate comfort as opposed to This seems to be the consensus of salad, which I enjoy, but doesn’t many of the college’s students. satisfy me immediately.” Police Foundations student Chad This psychological anomaly Cote, 22, has a different view. is prevalent in many of Niagara “The cafeteria provides a lot of College’s students. As the term be- different choices whether it’s quick comes more stressful, students seek greasy meals or wholesome sand- comfort over health. wiches or soups. I like the healthy Third-year Brock University choices the cafeteria has to offer. nursing student Kristy Jacobs, 21, “Cafeteria food has always been looks into the issue. somewhat expensive, but if you’re “It’s about ‘fl ight or fi ght,’ which going to be spending a lot, why is how your body reacts to stress. not spend it on something good You can choose to fi ght tempta- for you?” tion and deal with it, or run away. Jacobs agrees stress is a major Usually people under stress turn to factor driving youth to make poor comfort food as the temptation and food choices. not fi ght.” “If cafeterias offered only healthy For some, it’s about time re- options that would inspire youth to straints. “It’s just easy to run in and want to eat better, the overall stu- Jeremy Leclair, a third-year student in the Broadcasting — Radio, Television and Film program, selects a hot grab a quick slice of pizza and go,” dent population would be in better slice of pizza from the school cafeteria Oct. 7. says Police Foundations student Joe shape.” Photo by Jordan Nunziato Oct. 10, 2008 NIAGARA NEWS Page 7 on campus Students snap into action, save turtles By KRISTIN KAYE Staff Writer Almost everyone on the planet perks up if someone mentions an endangered species, but what about the not-so-endangered ones? Who stands up for them? That’s when the Niagara Environmental Corps (NEC) steps in. Co-ordinator Shannon Fletcher explains exactly what the NEC, started in 2005, is. “It is Niagara College’s student environmental group, a group of students that come together with an interest in the environment and restoration projects. They come together to brainstorm new ideas to continue on other projects such as the turtles and continue preserv- ing the environment.” Natelee Tokar, the research project manager for the Niagara- on-the-Lake (NOTL) campus, provides a breakdown of the aca- demic purpose of these projects. “Niagara Research provides students with the opportunity to work on real-world projects, with industry and community partners. These projects allow students to enhance the skills and knowledge that they learned in the classroom by better preparing them for em- ployment.” The snapping turtle endeavour came to be following a trip to the Toronto Zoo. Martin Smith, co- ordinator of the Environmental Technician Field and Lab pro- The remains of snapping turtle eggs remind students of the Niagara Environmental Corps (NEC) what they are working towards: preserving the gram, went to hear a speech and species. Photo by Kristin Kaye ended up with an amazing idea. build it, how would they build it – Smith outlines the intent of the NOTL campus. The lagoons cover much time on.” Smith elaborates: “Bob Johnson, but they were forced to think about NEC’s project. “The point of our about fi ve to six acres. In 2006, Do any of the turtles stick around curator of the reptiles/amphibians it and give it meaning through project is this: Can we build a they built the nestings about 20 the area after they are hatched? exhibit, was talking about how we marks and grades to come up with place where females will choose metres across and about 10 metres Sean Jones, also a second-year focus so much on species that are the best design. Then we chose to lay their eggs? Can we protect wide. A layer of sand and gravel Environmental Technician stu- at risk or becoming endangered the best design and went to the these eggs until they hatch, and was placed at the top so the turtles dent, explains. that we’re not focusing on the NEC and asked for volunteers that can we track the number of snap- can select that area and dig easily “We don’t think there are any more common species that are could actually build it. In 2006, it ping turtles and the babies they into it. turtles that actually live here all rapidly approaching the edge of was constructed. A turtle actually produce? So basically we are try- The rest of the project lies in year around. We think they come that mark. He planted that seed in chose it and used it, which was a ing to restock this area with new the capable hands of the research from elsewhere. So they’ll come my head. big breakthrough because you can snapping turtles. assistants. William Barnes, a from elsewhere and then they’ll “The next fall I made it part of a build things for animals but they “They take 13 years to mature, graduate of the Environmental choose a spot in the lagoon to lay class project. If you were going to won’t necessarily use it. So we so it’s 13 years before they can ac- Technician program and currently their eggs because we have several build a nesting habitat for snapping were lucky that it happened.” tually lay their eggs and stay here, enrolled in the Ecosystem Resto- areas that are good for nesting. We turtles, how would you do it? Snapping turtles aren’t an en- so we have to make sure there are ration (Graduate Certifi cate) pro- built them to be soft and sandy “The students made it a compet- dangered species yet, but they are new generations coming.” gram, outlines exactly what their so it’s easy for them to dig in the itive project. They read literature considered a species in decline. The nesting grounds for this jobs entailed. backfi ll. and picked out things – such as Cars kill them, and various preda- project are located near the la- “We had to wait for the turtles “They dig in the backfi ll and where would be the best place to tors around the area eat their eggs. goons, on the south side of the to lay, make sure the nests were lay their eggs. They’ll disperse boxed to protect them from preda- in here and grow up in here and tors, daily monitoring, recording then leave and go somewhere else, temperature. We took the crates which takes like six years. constructed last year to protect the “I think this is the only project eggs made out of wood and fenc- like this in the Niagara region ing material, made them better and, right now. We saw one of our past hopefully, as years progress, they turtles earlier this year. One has will continue to be made better.” been hanging around here for sure. Brent Abernethy, a second-year All we see is all we know, but for Environmental Technician student sure there’s more than that.” also involved with the turtles, dis- The snapping turtles aren’t the cusses some problems that arose NEC’s only project. The members when they fi rst started out. are also trying to control the popu- “There were a lot of dead eggs. lation of an invasive marsh plant The cage designs kept changing. called phragmites, by tearing it out We had to fi gure out when and and weaving it into nests for birds. where a nest would be. We had to Other projects include provid- catch on to the mother’s laying be- ing shelter for wood ducks and haviour, which was very fast, and rebuilding the salamander and we only managed to cage-protect amphibian population after the only two of eight nests. We didn’t West Nile scare forced the college get to the others soon enough to to drain the ponds in an effort to protect them.” stop mosquito habitats. Off cam- Despite all the hardships, the re- pus, the NEC is partnering with search assistants continue to stay Lafarge Construction in an effort involved as volunteers because, as to rebuild the Fonthill quarry. The Abernethy puts it, “it’s hard to just members hope to create a Welland A closer look at a protected snapping turtle nest near the lagoon on the Niagara-on-the-Lake campus. walk away from a project that’s so campus chapter for the NEC in the Photo by Kristin Kaye close to you, that you’ve spent so near future. Page 8 NIAGARA NEWS Oct. 10, 2008 on campus

The newly completed rhododendron garden bathes the Niagara-on-the-Lake east entrance with its nightlights. Photo by Michael Owen Broad leaves make broad impact By MICHAEL OWEN The east entrance rhododendron their planting knowledge,” said chance at each aspect, including ing projects teach teamwork and Staff Writer garden, a garden composed mostly Hoekstra. operating machinery from the expose students to different ways It’s been three years in the of spring/summer fl owering broa- Students worked on the garden skid loader to a tractor or Gator to of doing things. making, but in the fi rst week of dleaf evergreen plants, was started for one class in each week from a stone saw and a vibratory tam- “They get a little bit of pride in October, landscaping students in the fall of 2006 with the armour September to December. per. It’s all hands-on, and most the campus too,” said Hoekstra. put the fi nishing touches on the stone and retaining wall. Fall “They all did well,” said second -year students have some Students have told Hoekstra Niagara-on-the-Lake (NOTL) 2007 saw the wood retaining wall, Hoekstra. co-op experience. how much they enjoy working campus rhododendron garden. the laying of some fl agstone and The garden also features an “Those who haven’t done it on their own college. The project was led by the Mike planting done with help from fi rst- irrigation system and night [hands-on work] can do it for the “It beautifies the campus. It Hoekstra, professor and program year students. This fall the paths lighting. first time,” said Hoekstra. helps the campus become a col- co-ordinator for the horticulture and planting were completed. “There’s a pretty nice atmo- He explained his philosophy lection area,” said Hoekstra. division at NOTL. Second-year The Rhododendron Society of sphere at night time. It’s nicer at that learning can’t just be done This year’s class is already Landscaping Technician students Canada, Niagara Region, donated night than during the day,” said from a book, but requires stu- moving on to other projects in- did almost all of the work. the majority of plants. Hoekstra. dents to “get their hands dirty,” cluding offsite tree planting and “They do it all. They just go out “It couldn’t have been done The project tasks, divided into making projects “vital to the working with interlocking pavers and start doing it,” said Hoekstra. without them, their expertise, groups, give every student a program.” He continued by say- at the Niagara Culinary Institute. Budget breaks bring books By LYNSEY KITCHING an application for this grant has ment] to say people don’t need this Staff Writer been automatically submitted for money, even though the need is As a student, it’s comforting to approval. there.” know that there are ways of putting Eric Silvestri, manager of fi nan- About 2,200 students receive a few bucks back into the bank cial aid and scholarships for the OSAP within a population of account. college’s Welland and Niagara- 7,100 full-time students here. After their initial settling-in ex- on-the-Lake campuses, said, “The Full-time students without penses, many students are fi nding key is awareness of the non-OSAP OSAP loans can apply for the grant themselves strapped for cash. students. The more it’s out there, on the OSAP website, www.osap. In early September the Ontario the more people will start apply- gov.on.ca. government implemented a grant ing, and they tell their friends, the This year students can receive for post-secondary education as more money coming to students $150. However, the long-term plan part of the 2008 Ontario budget. the better.” is for it to be $300 a year. The Textbook and Technology Caitlin Jeffrey, 22, said, “I think The application must be submit- Grant Program is available to most it’s a great idea because students ted within the first 30 days of full-time students attending col- need that extra little help, espe- study if the student is in school lege or university in an approved cially if it’s for our education. for one term. program. Many students have to pay their For students enrolled for two Greg Flood, who works for way through school or work while or three terms, the form must be the Ministry of Training, Col- in school, so this money could help sent within 90 days of the end of leges and Universities, said about keep their stress levels down.” the study period. 500,000 students will be partially It is important for students who The post-secondary institu- reimbursed by the government for need this grant to submit an ap- tion must confirm the student is textbooks and supplies. plication, though. Silvestri says, enrolled full time in an approved If the student has an OSAP loan, “You don’t want them [the govern- program. Photo illustration Oct. 10, 2008 NIAGARA NEWS Page 9 on campus Alberta comes to Welland campus Up close and Personal

By CAMILLE HOLLETT Staff Writer If you want to be an actor, “drop out of school and go be a hippie,” said straight-faced Canadian actress Alberta Watson as a crowd of Act- ing for Film and Television (AFT) students erupted in laughter. Leaving school at 15 and join- ing a psychedelic theatre group worked for the 53-year-old To- ronto native. Her resumé is now adorned with the names Canadian fi lms such as Sarah Polly’s direc- torial debut, Away From Her, TV series Law & Order and 24 and, most recently, The Border. Watson was at the Welland campus Friday for the screening of a piece of work of which she is most proud and then to partici- pate in a Q & A session. AFT and Broadcasting – Radio, Television and Film (BRTF) students were welcomed to see The Wild Dogs, an exposé fi lm about the treatment of gypsies in Romania. Watson was the fi rst person invited to speak in the Acting for Film and Television program’s Up Close and Personal series, an Watson gives fi rst-year Acting for Film and Television students a little extra advice after the Q & A session. The students from left are Iain Robinson, ongoing project focusing on con- Chris Loff redo, Alexiz Korotash and Tanya Tesselaar. necting young actors with work- Photo by Camille Hollett ing professionals in the Canadian happen for a working actor. So, in came Watson, Doyle’s or time to waste, and there is a ne- student, who was already impressed fi lm and TV industry. “Much of the perception people long-time friend. The two met when cessity to be creative in what casts by Watson’s meaty body of work. Martin Doyle, the program co- have of the industry comes from they were signed with the same act- and crews do. “It inspires you to work for what ordinator, wanted to fi nd a balance Entertainment Tonight or ET Cana- ing agency in Toronto. From there Watson wasn’t afraid to com- she has.” for his students between what most da. … That’s not news. It’s one big they trained in Toronto and then ment on actors from either side Robinson was also intrigued people think happens and what does commercial.” New York City together. of the border, saying Canadian by Watson’s ability to just leave a Watson entered the Leo Tiberi actors are “too frickin’ humble” show like 24. “Like she’s at a point Studio discreetly, walking along compared to American actors, who in her career where she can just give the side of the room, no one even generally have more avenues in orders.” noticing who she was until her hat the industry. This could be why Robinson felt came off and Doyle introduced her. “We could use a little of their intimidated at times by Watson’s Then the slender brunette fl ashed balls. They could use a little bit of presence. her bright smile as she posed with a our grace.” But as Doyle said, “[Watson] student for a cellphone shot. Doyle had a blast, laughing out has been a working actor from 15. By the time Watson settled in her loud at Watson’s unique take on … She isn’t adverse to a giggle. seat in the front of the room on a the industry and intermittently She’s just not fl uffy. It’s good for platform, a sea of leaning students reminiscing with her about former students.” were waiting, heads turned slightly instructors. The smile he wore Alysha Henderson, a co-ordinator to optimize hearing. They didn’t barely left his face the entire time. of the BRTF program, said the want to miss a morsel of knowledge “There were just gems of acting experience of having Watson come she was about to share. wisdom in virtually everything in to speak to the students was “in- Watson was theirs for just about she said.” valuable.” an hour, so they got right into asking Watson admires others as much “The more experience students hard-hitting questions, such as why as she is admired. Sir Ian McKel- can have with people in the indus- the actress left the hit series 24. len is a favourite of hers because try, the better understanding they “It wasn’t the environment I “he makes Shakespeare accessible can have as to the scope of the wanted to be in – the tension. I to anyone.” In fact, Watson loves industry.” was away from home [Toronto]. “the Brits” because of “the poetry” Robinson likes what he’s ex- My main support was in Toronto. in their work. Actors Emily Watson perienced so far of the Up Close No amount of work is worth being and Ben Kingsley are also high on and Personal series because “it’s unhappy.” her list. As for American actors, Téa very useful and helpful in teaching How do high-budget and low- Leoni gets a nod. students the business of the acting budget productions differ? Appar- Watson fell hard for acting when world.” ently, the quality of food isn’t the she was an introverted teen. She For Henderson and Doyle, in- only difference. discovered theatre and it pulled her corporating such a series is a way “You have more time when you out of her shell. to bring students from the two pro- have more money, but that doesn’t “I had a voice suddenly. I was grams together, although, Hender- always make it [the production] being heard. I was being listened to son said she wished there had been better.” for the fi rst time in my life and that more BRTF students present. Watson prefers independent felt good.” Henderson was also impressed fi lms and said she rarely fi nds true Although Watson still wants to Watson agreed to visit without inspiration in big -budget projects. delve deeper and explore acting, her having to pay her “big bucks” to Hollywood just isn’t Watson’s attitude about auditions has changed come here. “cup of tea.” to “I don’t need you. You need me. After the session, Watson wanted “[In indies] you get to do it to- And it’s a wonderful place to be.” to know from Doyle when she could gether, not just some CEOs count- “Trust yourself. Always trust that come back. ing shareholders.” you are worth the role you’re going “She’s got that x-factor,” Doyle Alberta Waston opens up about her experience on 24, shooting The With low-budget fi lms, said up for.” said. “You can’t put your fi nger on Wild Dogs and preparing for emotional roles. Watson, people give “150 per cent” Advice like this is what held it, but it’s something very special … Photo by Camille Hollett because they don’t have the money Iain Robinson, 17, fi rst-year AFT a mystery.” Page 10 NIAGARA NEWS Oct. 10, 2008 Election ’08 Who will it be on Oct. 14?

By MIKE SHEELER Welland. Staff Writer Both ridings have members of the Conservative The candidates’ names are fi nalized in federal elec- Party, New Democratic Party, Liberal Party, and toral ridings of Welland and St. Catharines. To date the Green Party running this year. St. Catharines also has Welland riding has six while St. Catharines has fi ve Communist Party representation in this election while candidates to select from. Welland has an independent and a Marxist-Leninist There are as many as 18 parties participating in this Party representative fi lling out the pack. election nationwide with many more unregistered or The following is a guide to who’s who in both delisted. Six parties are represented between the two ridings, and a brief look at their respective party’s ridings here along with an independent running in platforms.

Conservative Party of Canada Leader: Prime Minister Stephen Harper Seats: 127 Campaign slogan: Strong leadership, a better Canada. The Conservative party states it believes in a balance of fi scal account- ability, progressive social policy and individual rights and responsibili- ties. The Conservatives assert that they handle the economy well, develop social rules and codes of conduct and promote freedoms.

Liberal Party of Canada High fi ves and all, Stephane Dion visited Montebello Park on his Leader: Stephane Dion campaign trail during the Niagara Wine Festival. Seats: 95 Photo by Mike Sheeler Campaign slogan: Richer, Fairer, Greener. The Liberals have what they call an action plan for the 21st century. Their platform lays out a progressive vision to make Canada a stronger country Dion and company parade for the next generation. The carbon tax is one of the Liberal’s key issues. Also the Liberal website says, “Stephane Dion is no ordinary leader. He through Niagara Wine Festival is a man of sincerity, integrity and honour and he believes leadership is about trust and teamwork.” By MIKE SHEELER this one.” Staff Writer “There are too many parties,” New Democratic Party of Canada The Niagara Wine Festival Sanderson added. Leader: Jack Layton received a political visit this year. Only addressing those in his im- Seats: 30 Liberal Party leader Stephane Dion mediate vicinity and focusing on Campaign slogan: We need a new kind of strong visited Montebello Park just after those he met, Dion toured the area. The New Democratic Party is making an aggressive push in this election. 1 p.m. Sept. 27. He executed a successful high-fi ve Jack Layton and the NDP plan consists of protecting jobs while fostering Arriving in a convoy, with a po- with a festival attendant bringing a new ones in a new energy economy. They want to decrease the growing lice escort and surrounded by ther slight cheer from the observers. gap between the rich and the rest. “For too long, the federal agenda has media and RCMP from the moment Some festival attendants Dion been set at the boardroom table instead of the kitchen table. I have a plan he stepped off his campaign bus, met were surprised. that puts families fi rst,” says Layton. Dion met with Liberal supporters, “I had no idea he was com- giving out hugs and kisses to those ing here,” said Rob Kanapman, Green Party of Canada close to him. Moving towards the a festival goer. “I still need to do Leader: Elizabeth May park, the mob of protection and research,” he replied, when asked Seats: 1 media fl owed with him. if the handshake from Dion had Campaign slogan: Vote for tomorrow. Shaking hands and meeting with solidifi ed his vote. The Green Party has turned some heads and made some news going into people at the festival, Dion made The mob of bodyguards and me- this election. Being added to the national televised debates Oct. 1 and his way around the main area in dia swallowed people and released Oct. 2 was a big step in this young party. The Green Party sees itself as front of the WestJet Stage. Giving them as it travelled. Some took the different, planning for a greater goal: a liveable world, with enough for no speech or presentation, Dion opportunity to pursue issues with everyone, with healthy communities based on healthy economies, secure made more direct contact with the Liberal leader. Dion dealt with for future generations. It preaches green thinking, hence the name. those attending the wine festival catcalls from the crowd with such venues. shouts as “Why don’t you come to Communist Party of Canada Many people were eager to shake Toronto to help Dion?” Leader: Miguel Figueroa his hand. After a quick hour and a short Seats: 0 Don Sanderson, visiting with visit, Dion made his way to his Campaign slogan: For peace, jobs, democracy and sovereignty vote his family from Hamilton, wasn’t next stop in the Liberal campaign. Communist. impressed. Leaving, much as he arrived, Di- Since its founding in 1921, Canada’s party of socialism has fought at the “I don’t think he’s the right on’s mob dissipated as he boarded forefront of leftwing Canadian politics. It proposes a “people’s alterna- man,” said Sanderson. “I think the his bus and his convoy left with tive” in politics and an end to right-wing agendas, the North American Tories are hoping for a majority on police escort. Free Trade Association and systematic crises brought on by capitalism. It also says it would put the onus of tax burdens on large corporations while making life easier on the working class. The Communist Party showcases its economic and fi nancial views opposite capitalism. How to Marxist-Leninist Party of Canada Leader: Anna Di Carlo Seats: 0 Campaign slogan: Empower the people. For us accountability begins at home. Vote With views similar to those of the Communist Party, the MLPC has taken issue with free trade and NAFTA specifi cally. It wants to ensure jobs for Canadians and equality for all. It is based in Montreal and is a confi rmed D party in registration. Polling station location, poll station hours of operation, advance voting details and any other questions can be addressed on the Elections Canada website www.elections. Independent ca , or by contacting Laurie Dayboll, the returning offi cer for Leader: N/A Welland district. Call 1-866-281-5090 or visit in person at 20 Seats: 3 in total Hagar St., Welland. Campaign slogan: N/A Independents are exactly that. They have no unifying platform. Indepen- dents runs their own campaign using local issues as their platform, in Don’t forget your government-issued identifi cation when you i most cases. They make up three seats of parliament but can hold more go to the polls. weight than some if they produce for their riding and region. Oct. 10, 2008 NIAGARA NEWS Page 11 Election ’08

Conservative Party: Alfred Kiers Welland Born in Dunnville and living in the area his entire life, Kiers has a large family with his wife, fi ve daughters, two sons-in-law and four grandchildren. “I fi rmly believe that if you’re not part of the solution, you’re part of the problem,” said Kiers, according Riding to his web space on the Conservatives’ website. Campaign offi ce at Unit 12, St. Charles Plaza, 95 Lincoln St., Welland. • Phone: 905-735-6565 • Email: [email protected] Liberal Party: John Maloney Maloney is the MP for Welland. He was elected in 1993 as a member of parliament for Erie in 1997 for Erie-Lincoln and re-elected in 2000. He was also re-elected in Welland in 2004 and 2006. Maloney says, “I am running because I believe in serving my community.” He says his “14 years of experience and results in parliament will work for you.” Campaign offi ce at 335 King St., Unit 1, Welland. • Phone: 905-680-8384 • Email: [email protected] New Democratic Party: Malcolm Allen Allen has lived in the Niagara region since 1963 with his wife, Peggy, and three children. Allen is serving as deputy mayor and has been a Pelham municipal councillor since 2003. He chairs the Municipal Corpo- rate Services Committee and is a member of the Pelham Library Board. Allen also holds an undergraduate degree in history and political science from Brock University. “It’s been 40 years since the last review of income security for Canada,” said Allen, keeping with his party’s belief that social security and jobs are keys to the economy and citizens’ livelihood. Campaign offi ce at 117 East Main St. Welland. • Phone: 905-735-5138 • Email: [email protected] Green Party: Jennifer Mooradian Mooradian says she believes in the importance of sustainable communities, environmental responsibility and respect for diversity. She is running in her fi rst campaign for the Green Party. Mooradian holds an honours degree in political studies from Queens University and a bachelor’s degree in Midwifery from McMaster University. Mooradian lives with her partner and daughter in St. Catharines. No offi ce is listed. • Phone: 905-401-1117 • Email: [email protected] Independent: Jody Di Bartolomeo Di Bartolomeo has run in the past for the NDP but says his confi dence in the party and leader Layton is shaken. He announced his candidacy in mid-September as an independent. “Win or lose, I’m just trying to do my part as a responsible citizen,” said Bartolomeo. He added, “Without the truth there really is no democracy.” No offi ce is listed. • Phone: 905-327-4765 Marxist-Leninist Party of Canada: Ron Walker Walker is running in the Welland riding this year. National offi ce at 1867 Amherst St., Montreal. • Phone: 416-253-4475 • Email: [email protected] Source: www.elections.ca Conservative Party: St. Catharines Rick Dykstra – The current St. Catharines riding MP A graduate of Brock University, Dykstra was fi rst elected to the House of Commons in 2006. His previous experience includes sitting on the St. Catharines City Council, to which he was elected Riding twice, and Chief of Staff to the Minister of Community and Social Services. “I am committed in bringing St. Catharines’ issues to Ottawa and delivering results,” Dykstra said according to the Conservative website. Campaign offi ce at 285 Bunting in St. Catharines. • Phone: 905-935-8683 • Email: [email protected] Liberal Party: Walt Lastewka – The former local MP Representative for St. Catharines. Lastewka was fi rst elected to parliament by St. Catharines voters in 1993. He was re-elected in 1997, 2000 and 2004. The former Secretary to the Minister of Industry from July 1997 to 1999, Lastewka later served as Parliamentary Secretary to Public Works and Government Services. There he studied the government-wide procurement system resulting in $2.6 billion in savings for the government over fi ve years. “A Liberal government will never put Canada into a defi cit. Period. We will continue to put fi scal responsibility fi rst,” said Lastewka according to his website. Campaign offi ce at 350 Scott St. Unit 2, Scott/Vine Plaza. • Phone: 905-935-2008 • Email: [email protected] New Democratic Party: George N. Addison Addison holds a bachelor’s degree in history from the University of Western Ontario and master’s degree in theology from the University of Toronto and Queen’s University. He is a member of the Advisory Council of the Niagara Distress Centre, executive member of the Niagara Coalition for Peace and a former member of the Hamilton Refugee Services Board. Campaign offi ce at 50 Westgate Park, St. Catharines. • Phone: 905-934-0044 • Email: [email protected] Green Party: Jim Fannon Fannon is a returning candidate for the Green Party. He has ran four times in the past, in 1993, 2003, 2004 and 2006. This will be his fi fth time running for the Greens. A former talk show host, Fannon ran a political call-in show having various guests including Stephen Harper and Jack Layton, among others. He has also been a member of the Preservation of Agricultural Land Society, Sierra Club of Canada and the Council of Canada. With strong feelings about environment and governance, Fannon fi ts in well under the Green fl ag. Campaign offi ce at 52 St. Paul St. in St. Catharines. • Phone: 905-934-1110 • Email: [email protected] Communist Party of Canada: Sam Hammond Hammond is the Communist Party’s Labour Commissioner, a retiree from industrial work and a life- long journalist and labour activist. For years he has fought for social and labour justice. He is focussing on job loss from NAFTA and in the auto industry. He is involved in the local debates between parties this year. Source: www.elections.ca No offi ce is listed. • Phone: 905-964-7968 • Email: [email protected] Page 12 NIAGARA NEWS Oct. 10, 2008 on campus Program takes aim at getting ahead in life

By LAURA WIKSTON Continuous start dates, personal- She started a household manage- Staff Writer ized training plans and a student- ment and respite care business. As Niagara College grows and driven pace of learning mean most When the business didn’t take matures, the stereotypical student students in the classroom are work- off as she had hoped, Vanwylick becomes harder to defi ne. Cultural ing at different levels. The average says she needed to further her edu- Michelle Vanwylick, a Literacy and Basic Skills student, entertains and social diversity are the norm, class size is 20, and everyone gets cation. A supplement in the news- daughters Alexandra and Sydney. and not every face is fresh out of some one-on-one time with the paper with information on adult Photo by Laura Wikston high school. instructor. learning programs led her to the In the Literacy and Basic Skills Michelle Vanwylick and Sarah LBS program. She started classes the learning plans set up by Rynn. Despite different circumstances, (LBS) program, this fact is espe- Panko are LBS students at the in March. “Alison has helped me to reorga- Vanwylick and Panko have two cially true. Niagara-on-the-Lake campus. Panko, 24, lives with her parents nize my brain and to think like a things in common. Both work part “Students in the LBS program They study English under the same and has two dogs. She graduated student again,” says Vanwylick. time while attending classes two vary in age, educational and instructor, Rynn, yet their training with a bachelor of arts degree in Panko benefi tted from her struc- nights a week and both do volun- employment experience and plans are different. So are their psychology from Brock Univer- tured learning plan. teer work. future career goals,” says circumstances. sity and is enrolled part time in “Every class, she sets me up with Vanwylick has been accepted Alison Rynn, LBS English in- Vanwylick, 33, is a married the Practical Nursing program at a list of what I should accomplish into the Social Services program structor. mother of two small children, Niagara College. A diffi cult course, by the end of that class.” with a January start date, and Panko The LBS program is part of the Sydney, 6½, and Alexandra, 5. the program requires an 87 per cent Rynn has taught in the LBS will enter the Practical Nursing Literacy Services Plan network, Through downsizing, she lost her entry-level average in math, chem- classes for seven years. She says program full time in January. funded across Ontario by the job at Hayes Dana, a truck frame istry, biology and English. organization is the key to effec- They say their experience in the Ministry of Training, Colleges and manufacturing plant in Thorold. Panko enrolled in LBS in April tively managing a mixed level LBS program has been worth the Universities. The money was good and Vanwyl- to bring her English grades up to class. effort. The goal is to help adult learn- ick says she had to fi nd another job that percentage. She targets mid- “I create working partnerships That’s what Rynn likes to hear. ers gain the skills needed to get that paid well. October as her achievement date. with students to ensure that each “The best part of teaching is the a job, enrol in further training or “I need to think about my kids. Both Vanwylick and Panko say the student is aware of training plans, satisfaction I receive from students education, or achieve personal During these years, there’s a lot of English studies geared toward their goals assignments and outcomes on an who give positive feedback on their independence. shopping to do.” have helped them. Both women credit ongoing basis.” experiences in the program.” Literacy and Basic Skills (LBS) Quick Facts What is LBS? Basic education for adults in the areas of reading, writing and numeracy Includes basic education in speaking/ listening, computer and self-management/ self-direction skills. LBS has: 5 levels for each of these above areas 4 streams: Anglophone (English), Fran- cophone, Native and Deaf Who can attend? Anyone over the age of 18 can attend. Some programs may allow students over the age of 16 to attend. You should have some identifi cation to prove your residency status in Ontario.

Where can you fi nd LBS classes? Classes are available in every region of Ontario. Within each region there are often multiple providers. Go to Alphaplus.ca site for a complete list. How much does it cost to be a student A federal general election is taking place on October 14, 2008. in LBS classes? Most LBS programs are free. Some pro- You will find the voting hours for your New identification rules to vote grams may charge a small fee to register polling station on your voter information (less than $25.). When you vote, you must prove your card or at www.elections.ca by clicking on When can you take LBS classes? “Voter Information Service”. identity and address. Most LBS are continuous intake, so you If you haven’t received this card, you are For the list of acceptable pieces of can start anytime. Most classes are off ered probably not on the voters list. To register, identification authorized by the Chief Electoral Officer of Canada, please see during the day, but many locations also For information on where and when to all you need to do is go to your polling the pamphlet you received by mail from off er evening classes. Some classes may vote, check your voter information card. station on election day, where you must Elections Canada or visit www.elections.ca close during the summer. It tells you where and when to vote. You’ll prove your identity and address. and click on “Voter Identification at get through the voting process more quickly the Polls”. Can I study LBS on the Internet? if you have it with you. Alpharoute off ers online studies, but To vote, you must: you must be attending an LBS program to • be a Canadian citizen • be at least 18 years old on election day have full access to this resource. • prove your identity and address What can I do after LBS? Once you have completed , you will be Vote. Shape your world. ready for employment, training or higher level academic upgrading. Facts provided by Literacy Link Niagara 1-800-INFO-VOTE TTY 1-800-361-8935 www.elections.ca For more information contact: Donna 1-800-463-6868 for people who are deaf or hard of hearing, toll-free in Canada and the United States, or toll-free in Canada and the United States, Dell, 905-641-2252, ext. 4418, or check 613-991-2082 from anywhere in the world or 001-800-514-6868 toll-free in Mexico http://www.niagaracollege.ca/training/ lbs.htm Oct. 10, 2008 NIAGARA NEWS Page 13 on campus Niagara College puts a new spin on homecoming

Stacy Domio, 25, Niagara College Viticulture alumnus spins the wheel for a prize. Photo by Lynsey Kitching By LYNSEY KITCHING classmates, friends, teachers and teammates One of those ideas was a health and den- Staff Writer and also to learn about the current state of the tal care packages for graduates, since many Homecoming brought back familiar faces college and its future plans. ‘We want to get the graduates perform contract work. and waves of memories. The college has grown considerably since it There are also program advisory commit- This past week, Niagara College celebrated opened 40 years ago, now training 7,500 full- message out to the tees that meet on a regular basis to look at the the successes of its more than 50,000 alumni time students. relevance of the curriculum of each program. for the fi rst time in a Homecoming. The diffi cult part was getting people to alumni that we can be Some alumni sit on those committees. Multiple gatherings of graduates re-united commit. Cino has many ideas on how to improve the in a wide range of venues from Sept. 30 Cino said, “Trying to get people to register, a support to your career relationship between Niagara, its alumni and through Oct. 5. now that’s a challenge. This is new.” future students. Steve Cino, co-ordinator for the Alumni The event was strategically scheduled needs.’ With the help of the alumni, he is attempt- offi ce, explained this is the fi rst attempt at a during the Niagara Food Festival, an annual ing to set up networking possibilities between homecoming event. event for 15 years, connecting to about 60,000 — Steve Cino future students, their parents and those with The Homecoming initiatives were College people in the Niagara region. infl uence in secondary schools. After 5 business networking events at both Cino said, “We want to create a Niagara access to Optimal Resumé, which he ex- One example is holding events where alum- campuses, Sept. 3, in Welland and Oct. 1 in College presence within a very busy envi- plains to be a meaningful tool when seeking ni meet with high school guidance counsellors Niagara-on-the-Lake. ronment.” employment. throughout southern Ontario, beginning in Cino explains, “We want to get the message This was a success, Niagara College having Alumni play a role in various areas of the Toronto. out to the alumni that we can be a support to multiple tents set up in a busy area of the festi- college, returning as guest speakers in classes, Cino said, “We’re about advocating for the your career needs.” val where many visitors browsed and learned aiding in co-op placements and providing college and for the alumni, so part of that is The homecoming also included a social about its culinary and viticulture programs internships. to profi le good news, so people see that good venue with a pub night at M.T. Bellies Tap and alumni. Cino said, “Students keep telling us that they things are happening ... especially in Welland & Grill House in Welland Oct. 2, a volleyball The purpose is to get students thinking about really value hearing from people, especially where lots of bad things are happening with reunion and a reunion for Theatre Art Centre the alumni association, to encourage them to relatively recent grads ... to fi nd out what it’s unemployment and things like that.” grads from the 1970’s Oct. 3, and an alumni stay involved in the college community after like out there right now.” Dan Patterson, Niagara College president, tent at the Niagara Food Festival from Oct. 3 graduating and to encourage alumni to stay A number of smaller groups exist within the said, “Our alumni have always been an impor- to Oct. 5. connected. alumni association. tant part of the Niagara College community, The college’s homecoming has been orga- Cino explained there are benefi ts already Cino stated, “The alumni council is a repre- and we look forward to welcoming them home nized to help alumni re-connect with former for Niagara College graduates including free sentative group that we bounce ideas off.” this fall.”

Food festival See pages 14-15 for thought Page 14 NIAGARA NEWS • Oct. 10, 2008 PaPagege 15 From top: Acrobat Stacy Clark, from Montreal, entertains the crowd, Oct. 5, at the Niagara Food Festival. Brody Ashenden, 61/2, gets a henna tattoo from Amber Radena. Radena came from Ottawa to work at the festival Sam Seaver, chef de cuisine, Niagara Culinary Institute dining room, prepares the tools of his trade before his cooking demonstration in the mobile culinary kitchen. Michael Olson, co-ordinator, chef professor and Niagara Food Festival chair, hams it up in a cowboy hat as he prepares a dish in the mobile culinary kitchen, Oct. 5.

Photos by Laura Wikston Grads come home Niagarato the 15th à annualla carte food festival

By LAURA WIKSTON dish, which included fennel, shallots, garlic and white wine, taste samples of the featured dishes. Staff Writer is “great for harvest time. It’s simple, but earthy. It has lots Following Vo’s demonstration, Olson took On a crisp autumn day, the enticing aroma of sautéed garligarlicc of fl avour.” the stage and prepared a recipe for pumpkin in the air carries fast and far. That scent was just one of many Seaver starts his creations with the subtle layering of soup. He thanked the culinary students who thatat drew hordes of huhungryngry visitors to the 15th annual NiaNiagaragara fl avours. He starts with a pprotein,rotein, then considers the time assisted throuthroughoutghout the weekend, callicallingng Foodood Festival in downtown Welland, Oct. 3 to 5. of year and the availability of local ingredients. Mcarthur an example of the “future of cuisine.” Thousands turned out for a weekend packed with a variety “By then, I have a general idea of where I’m going,” says Saturday’s demonstrations included Anna Olson, of food, music, celebrity, entertainment and memories. Seaver. “I start interchaninterchangingging ingredients so that it brings star of two cooking shows on the Food Network – Since Niagara College partnered with the City of Welland out the natural fl avours.” Sugar and FresFresh.h. lastst year in organizing and running the festival, the populapopularr Assisting Seaver were Brittany Fretz, a fi rst-year Cook- As well as the culinary demonstration, many three-dayree-day event has grgrown.own. ApApprenticeshipprenticeship pprogramrogram student, and Heather Mcarthur, 19, NiNiagaraagara area restaurants offered festival gogoersers a Special attractions this year included a major NiagaNiagarara a second-year Culinary Management program student. wide selection of foods. Barbecued ribs and blooming Collegeollege Homecoming Celebration and the ExperiencExperiencee Mcarthur said she was happy to work all weekend assisting onions, which are battered deep-fried whole onions, were Niagaraiagara Market venue promoting support for local NiagaNiagarara the guest chefchefs.s. big favourites with the crowds. economy.onomy. Thirty-fi ve local vendors sold products such as “It’s cool to help such experienced chefs,” she said. “It’s Of the many comments heard in passing throughout the jams,ms, baked goods, fresh fruit and lavender. interesting to meet and work with them.” weekend, one visitor summed up the success of the food A BBuy LLocal l ChChallenge ll petition titi gathered th d more ththan 11,000 000 MthMcarthur was also lh happy tto see pickerel iklth on the menu. sampledldb by exclaiming, li i “W“Wow, thtthat was good.” d” signatures by the third day of the festival. The online petition “I’m from Simcoe. The pickerel is from Port Dover, which They came, they saw, they ate. at www.buylocalniagara.ca had 5,258 signatures by Oct. 5. is just 15 minutes from my house. So even when I’m here, “It’s going very well,” said Mike Lethby, who helped man it’s like I’m home. We’re all connected by food.” the booth. “People have shown a phenomenal interest. It’s Mcarthur also assisted Chef Hung Vo on Sunday afternoon. really exciting.” Vo is a 2002 graduate of the Culinary Skills – Chef Training Another big draw was the new mobile culinary theatre program and is chef at Mai Vi in St. Catharines. He prepared designed in part by Chef Michael Olson, co-ordinator spring rolls using fresh herbs and vegetables. and chef professor at the Niagara Culinary Institute and Vo’s wife, Trish Trieu, says that people ask them about festival board chair. The sleek, well-thought-out, entirely Vietnamese food and culture all the time. stainless-steel kitchen was the staging area for cooking “Our food was infl uenced by the French, a little bit of Thai and demonstrations throughout the event. a lit bit of Chinese,” she said. “Even the Vietnamese language On Friday evening, Sam Seaver, chef de cuisine at the has lots of French words.” Culinary Institute’s dining room at the Niagara-on-the-Lake After each demon- campus, demonstrated how to make a pickerel, sausage, stration, audience fennel and potato dish he created. members were He developed the recipe over two years, playing with the invited to ingredients and tweaking the fl avours. Seaver says the

Hung Vo, chef at Mai Vi restaurant in St. Catharines, and 2002 graduate of Niagara College’s Chef Training program, prepares fresh Vietnamese spring rolls in the mobile culinary theatre. Page 16 NIAGARA NEWS Oct. 10, 2008 on campus International friends at Niagara By MALLORY BRESOLIN He had the opportunity to surround Not long after he arrived, his skills with Staff Writer himself with people going through similar a lens were put to good use. He arrived here nine months ago from experiences. “One of my ESL teachers got married South Korea. “I was so glad to meet people who were and I took the pictures for their engage- Hyung-Jin (Eddie) Jang is one of many from other countries, like Japan and Chi- ment. Then they hired me for their wed- international students who came to Ni- na,” said Jang about his experience with ding,” he said. agara College for the English as a Second the Global Connections program, which is In addition to capturing his teacher’s Language (ESL) program. organized by the International Education wedding, he also put together a presenta- “I chose a college that didn’t have a lot and Development Department. tion for the international students who of South Korean students. ... It’s not good One of the other international students graduated in the summer. for my English,” said the 24-year-old. he met was Chidi (Chi) Ajaere, 21, from “He gave such a wonderful presenta- Another factor in his decision was Nigeria, who is taking the International tion,” said Lynn Doherty, ESL teacher. Canada’s safety. Business Management program. Jang admits he came to Niagara College Initially worried about going to school During the interview, Chi approached strictly to improve his English because it in the U.S., he thought Canada was more the table, grinning from ear to ear and is a critical component for him to achieve peaceful. “So I chose Canada,” he said. shook Jang’s hand. He asked a simple, his dream of becoming a chief communi- Another contributing factor was that he “Hey man, what’s up?” cations offi cer in South Korea. had heard “the teacher was good and the “It’s easy for me,” Jang said, about “Basically, the face of a company,” he program was good.” making friends. “There are lots of school said. “Most Korean guys who come here The decision gave Jang and his family activities through the International De- are 24, 25, 26 years old. We don’t have some peace of mind. partment, like going to Toronto for $10.” much time to learn English. We need Eng- “They trust me, but I don’t want to think These trips gave Jang the opportunity to lish in a hurry,” of them too much. It’s not good for my put his talent and hobby to good use. South Korea is a Democratic state, but English,” he joked. As an avid photographer in South Ko- its neighbour, North Korea, is Communist. His father, mother and younger brother rea, he was able to capture his adventures “All guys go to military training to help reside in Ulsan, South Korea, and his girl- in Canada and the United States on his protect South Korea from North Korea, friend, who lives in Seoul, South Korea, camera. but also from other countries.” are all on his list of what he misses the “I went to the Niagara Falls, Ottawa, He added, “I did two years. We have to most about home. Montreal, Quebec City and New York,” train for two years. It is our duty to our He also misses the cuisine and says Ca- he said. country.” nadian Korean food just doesn’t compare Jang has fi nished what he set out to do. to the real thing. He completed his ESL program and is “It is totally different now taking International Business Man- from my country,” agement, a graduate certifi cate program at he said. the Niagara-on-the-Lake campus. He has some advice for other interna- tional students: “Just smile and remember their name. It is the best way to make new friends.”

‘I chose a college that didn’t have a lot of South Korean students. ... It’s not good for my English.’ — Hyung-Jin (Eddie) Jang

Submitted photo Oct. 10, 2008 NIAGARA NEWS Page 17 on campus Save your apples for your lunchbox It takes more than you think to earn your professors’ respect By CAMILLE HOLLETT “You have to work on it and for me it’s easier as I get older because Staff Writer I’m no longer in the same genera- College offers an opportunity tion. So now I look at students as to change. And that doesn’t just part of an intellectual environment mean your socks. It’s a time to but not as part of mine.” develop strong and healthy work- Teaching styles also affect re- ing relationships with the people lationships between students and teaching you. professors. Shaftoe refers to his Torrin Fee, 19, a fi rst-year Po- style as “invitational.” Is this ap- lice Foundations student who has proach helpful in getting along with experienced less than a month of his students? college, says the new environment “I hope so,” he says, with raised is an eye-opener because of how eyebrows and a chuckle. important it is to get along with He tries to draw students into the professors. Now he’s thinking course material by incorporating about the workforce ahead. plenty of group work during class. “Here, you are the enforcer. The That way he can learn more about actions you take now will have individual students, especially the a long-term effect. You can’t get quieter ones who can sometimes away with slacking or not doing feel intimidated in large groups, homework [like in high school].” such as an entire class. Kristen Jacobson, 22, third-year This, in turn, allows Shaftoe to Broadcasting – Radio, Television understand what students think and Film student and 2007 win- about the subject matter on a more ner of the Garfi eld Weston Merit in-depth level as he fl oats around Award, says you just have to be the room, popping in and out of a hard worker. “If you hand your discussions. assignments in on time, go to class Fee likes Jim Norgate’s ap- and make the effort, they’ll respect proach. Norgate, Fee says, has you and you’ll have a good rela- already kicked out about half the tionship with them.” Kristen Jacobson, during a work project in Ghana. Jacobson’s positive relationship with her professors and students of a class for not following But Crispin Shaftoe, professor hard work helped her win the 2007 Garfi eld Weston Merit Award. The scholarship facilitated a four-week cellphone policy. “He doesn’t want of public policy at Niagara College internship working for Ghana’s Coastal Television, a local news station. to babysit.” Fee respects Norgate and liaison for the School College Submitted photo because he knows “professors like Work Initiative and Niagara Link that have things to teach ... They are Projects, thinks it takes much more where from 200 to 300 students per other people are saying.” her professors. to the point.” than just being a hard worker. term, so, Shaftoe says, if a profes- “If you’re willing to think about You’re not supposed to be friends Fee has another simple philoso- Students’ efforts shouldn’t stop sor doesn’t know your name, at it and then attempt to engage that, with your teachers in high school, phy that might work when it comes there. Shaftoe suggests asking least get the professor to remember that’s the best kind of student.” but “in college you can have a more to getting along with professors: lots of questions, connecting with your face. You’ve got to talk to your Building a strong foundation personal relationship with profes- “If a prof says they don’t take crap, professors after class and email- professors right away. is fruitful. Getting along with sors to a point of calling them by don’t give them crap.”These are all ing them. “All of those kinds of “Some people are really good professors can also mean develop- their fi rst names or grabbing a beer new concepts to Fee, who says he things will help at remembering ing a good reputation, which is a with them after class. It’s cool. I used to bad-mouth his teachers in you build that names. I’m good very good thing “especially since like that a lot.” high school and “slack off.” relationship be- ‘If you hand your at remembering profs have so many contacts in the On the other hand, Shaftoe says The subject matter of a class can cause [that way] faces, but once a fi eld,” says Shaftoe. What could professors and students treating also affect a relationship between the prof actually assignments in on student talks to that mean for a student? Major one another like buddies can be student and professor. It can inter- gets to know time, go to class and me, and I get to hook-ups later on. “tricky.” “I think you can cross fere with interaction in the class- who you really embarrass myself Jacobson says all of her success lines very quickly once you do that. room if not handled the right way. are,” he says. make the effort, they’ll by asking, ‘What’s so far at Niagara College has a lot As long as they [the students] are As a professor of potentially Through your name again?’ to do with the effect of her relation- students, it’s a power relationship. controversial courses such as World building this respect you and you’ll then gradually it ships with her professors. I give them the marks. It’s not an Religions and Current Events, Shaf- relationship, a have a good relation- begins to stick.” “They’re the ones who have the equal relationship.” toe says he sometimes has to alter professor can That isn’t to say connections and the knowledge, As well, getting too close to stu- his methods of teaching to keep the gauge a stu- ship with them.’ professors don’t and they’re the ones who will help dents can translate into favouritism. class focused and from offending dent’s honesty, —Kristen Jacobson have to make an you more if they see that you’re In such cases, Shaftoe says, “the in- anyone. which is inte- effort as well. It determined.” vitation [to learn] becomes too per- “I’ve had courses where I’ve had gral for Shaftoe is the student’s Jacobson even considers her sonal. It’s not kept at a professional a really committed Communist and when determining what to do if the responsibility to ignite the relation- former General Arts and Science level, so the professor becomes too a really committed capitalist who student misses an assignment or ship and both parties’ to maintain professor, Deborah Boutilier, one much attached to that person.” just go at it. If it gets to be too much, fails a test and wants to make up it. “It’s up to the student to try to of her best friends here. Boutilier However, Shaftoe does think then I redirect [the discussion.]” the assignment or test. engage. I try to fi nd ways for the inspired Jacobson with her devo- bumping into students at a bar can Shaftoe says he tries “really, real- Because of the number of stu- student to re-engage if they’re slip- tion, motivation and passion and by be benefi cial to them, because “it ly, really hard” to remain objective dents each professor has, it is more ping.” treating her students “like her own allows them to see their prof in a when teaching a religion or gov- the students’ responsibility to seek The students Shaftoe prefers are kids and doing anything for [them to different environment, and then ernment course, especially when it out the professor rather than the the ones who have “the ability to help them] understand something.” they’re more comfortable to talk to comes to the subject of elections. other way around. think about what they’re reading, Friendship is a must for Jacobson you because they think you’re more “I don’t know how well I do with Most professors will have any- what they’re experiencing and what when it comes to getting along with human.” George Bush though.” Support staff ratifi es three-year agreement

By ASHLEE KIVELL The agreement, proposed Aug. 31 divisional secretaries and registrar for statutory and civic holidays of which rejected the contract. Staff Writer and ratifi ed Oct. 3, had 80 per cent offi ce personnel. to student workers. It provides as These included College Boreal The results are in. of the vote at Niagara College. Though it is not without fl aws, well a recognition of Family Day and Cambrian in Sudbury, Cen- College support staff through- Seventy-fi ve per cent of full- union representatives say the as a holiday. It offers new language tennial in Scarborough, George out Ontario voted 67 per cent in time support staff at Niagara Col- three-year agreement pledges a about bullying and psychological Brown in Toronto, and Fleming favour an agreement between the lege voted, equaling 169 votes. three-per-cent wage increase each harassment to equip people with in Peterborough. Ontario Public Service Employees The support staff includes service year and $425 will be added to a their rights. About 32 per cent of support Union and the College Compensa- staff, information desk personnel, special allowance. There are 24 community col- staff voted against the agreement tion and Appointments Council. technical support staff, librarians, The contract promises payment leges in the province, a number provincewide. Page 18 NIAGARA NEWS Oct. 10, 2008 off campus Role reprisal for Habitat For Humanity Students return to help shape better futures

By LESLEIGH MISENER Canadian Tire Financial Services Staff Writer will again make a “signifi cant Niagara College students are cash contribution,” says Fowler. swinging their hammers for fami- Having raised a whopping lies in need. $10,000 for the 2007 build, Construction Techniques pro- students of the Niagara College gram students in partnership with Event Management program Habitat for Humanity Niagara and graduate certifi cate program are the Niagara Home Builders’ Asso- hard at work preparing to launch ciation (NHBA) have begun work a variety of fundraising events for on a three-bedroom, 1,050-square this year effort. foot home in Dain City. Program co-ordinator Shelley The partnership, in its third year, Merlo says her students are in the has provided homes for three low- process of scouting locations, pre- income Niagara families needing planning and “slushing it out,” safe, affordable housing. adding, “Our hope is to again Students of the one-year certifi - present a cheque for $10,000.” cate program are given hands-on Fowler says, “Any time third experience through daily on-site parties assist in the fundraising building labs and a valuable op- effort, it’s wonderful!” portunity to develop and hone Habitat Niagara is one of about their skill set working alongside 1,600 affi liates of Habitat for Hu- experienced building profession- manity International, which, since als from the NHBA, says Craig its inception in 1976, has built and Fowler, director of community rehabilitated more than 200,000 sourcing, Habitat Niagara. homes for low-income families. Program participants take part in the construction process from the ground up, graduating with a certifi cate in Construction Tech- ‘Any time third niques and the pride in having Construction Techniques program students at work on the basement walls of the newest Habitat For parties assist in the played a primary role in helping Humanity home in Dain City. to secure one family’s future. Submitted photo fundraising eff ort, “We are about two weeks into the project now. A faith-based, non-profi t hous- to local families facing fi nancial and actively sourcing donors for it’s wonderful!’ “The basement walls are com- ing organization, Habitat relies on challenges. land and materials. plete, and we will start framing volunteer labour forces and the Fowler says Habitat anticipates The build site at 11 Michigan the fl oors and walls next week,” fi nancial support of community a “$60,000 outlay per home,” and St. has been donated by the United says Paul Weerdenburg, co-ordi- members and corporate donors the NHBA plays a vital role in the Church of Canada. — Craig Fowler nator, Construction Engineering to realize its goal of providing project with volunteers providing Fundraising efforts for build- Technology-Architecture. decent and affordable housing construction management services ing materials are underway, and 57th Annual Wine Festival a roaring success Locals and tourists alike enjoy celebration By HAYLEY KENNEDY said he would like to come back, Staff Writer at least to see the parade, which Ah, the Niagara Wine Festival. was “a lot of fun to watch and had It’s an event where it’s acceptable a lot of energy.” to chug wine in public, dance Elana Ward, a 45-year-old St. in the streets like a lunatic and Catharines resident, has been at- celebrate the wonder of grapes. tending the festival for the past 20 This 57-year-old festival ran years. She said, “I love going with until Sept. 28 in St. Catharines, my nieces and nephews, and just drawing in locals and tourists, and seeing them enjoy themselves.” bringing more than 500,000 visi- Wine tasting attracts people tors to the Niagara region for the who like to savour every fl avour festivities last year. in the wine, or those who indulge Some of the special events in- in it as much as they can to have a cluded wine tasting, winery tours, good time. concerts and the street parade in Paula Kennedy, a 56-year-old downtown St. Catharines. employee at Peller Estates Winery The parade was all about bright in Niagara-on-the-Lake, says she colours, crowd-pleasing entertain- loves her job. ers and promotion for everything “I’ve learned a great deal about that goes on in this area. the wine process and how to tell Through dancing clowns, jump- which wine is good and which ing cheerleaders and performing wine is bad.” bands on fl oats, this parade shows Peller Estates takes very special that the Niagara region is full care preparing the grapes, as she of people who love to entertain explains, “They plant the vines crowds and celebrate the wonders north to south, because there is a of this place. The Brock University cheerleading squad shows off their moves during the Grape and Wine Festival parade breeze that comes off the lake, hits “The parade was better this year. in downtown St. Catharines on Sept. 27. the escarpment, and comes right I really enjoyed it,” said Kevin Photo by Hayley Kennedy back down through the vines and Staples, a 53-year-old man from Wine. I’m drinking an ice-cold friends around and enjoying quite visitor from Owen Sound, said keeps the mould away.” St. Catharines, who attended.“ one, the sun is shining and soon a lot of wine. he likes to “walk around and take For more information on wine There was a lot more to look at, I’ll be in bed.” Others celebrate this day a little everything in, see all the sights tours and vineyards in this area, and the fl oats were really great.” Staples also celebrates by fry- differently. and take a lot of pictures.” Snider, visit the website at: Staples said, “It’s Grape and ing sausages on the BBQ, having Regan Snider, a 28-year-old a fi rst-time visitor to the festival, www.grapeandwinetours.com. Oct. 10, 2008 NIAGARA NEWS Page 19 off campus Ghosts make their presence known By ASHLEE KIVELL Video footage of odd mists and Staff Writer dark shapes, photos of bright fl oat- He had to give it breath to bring ing orbs and eerie whispers of what it to life. is said to be voices from beyond Breathing Port Robinson is the the grave are just some of the ex- fi rst documentary by professional amples of the paranormal she has voice actor and independent fi lm in her collection. maker David McRae. Besides being frightening, para- The fi lm follows McRae as he normal investigating can also be revisits a series of shocking para- quite dangerous. Entering private normal events that took place at property at night and searching old an abandoned residence on Port and often unstable structures come Robinson Road in Welland. The with some risks. Goulden found inspiration for the documentary herself in one such situation when came from a screenplay McRae she and McRae ventured into the began developing in 2005, based spooky Port Robinson haunt alone on the same events. one night against their friends’ The full-length thriller, which wishes. The structure, built in the has had trouble leaving the ground, late 1800s and uncared for for has been left to simmer on the back some time, was beginning to erode. burner for the time being. Goulden fell partially through the “The documentary is the real in- second-storey fl oor, while McRae, side story behind the feature fi lm. in an attempt to grab her, put his I wanted to do the documentary to hand on a nail. help gain the exposure I need for Goulden asserts that the most the movie,” said McRae. interesting stories from the house Through interviews, includ- have nothing to do with their care- ing input from Dr. Lisa Miller of less blunders. A&E’s Psychic Kids: Children of “I never felt comfortable going the Paranormal, and footage and there at night,” she said, describing Elizabeth Goulden, local paranormal investigator, and director David McRae are featured in the Port Robinson electronic voice phenomena (EVP) the feeling of the place as “unset- Road documentary’s promotion poster. collected from the deserted locale tling.” Those who have dared to Submitted Photo between 2000 and 2002, the fi lm venture into the house have heard is an intelligent mystery/drama/ daunting task McRae faces now is the right amount of passion and vi- challenges the age-old question, what is believed to be the warn- thriller that follows this group of fi nding the funding. sion to the story that it needs, for “Is there life after death?” ings of spirits. Goulden recounts young men and women on a jour- “I have made many short fi lms one simple reason: I was there.” Elizabeth Goulden, paranormal hearing “My fault” and “Don’t” on ney into the unknown … and by over the years, but never a fi lm on McRae works as the imaging investigator and graduate of Ni- one occasion. On other occasions, going on this journey, the group’s this scale.” voice for the Telelatino Network agara College’s Offi ce Administra- unexplained emotions and over- fear of the unknown turns into one During his experiences on Port (TLN) and wants to continue his tion program, believes the answer whelming feelings of anger and of hope and realization, a realiza- Robinson Road, McRae was at- work in voice acting alongside his is affi rmative. dread have caused her to run from tion that there is indeed more.” tending Niagara College’s Broad- budding fi lm career. He continues “We are not humans having a the house and vomit. When asked what the fi lm could casting – Radio, Television and to push forward in hopes of mak- spiritual experience; we are spir- McRae believes the many en- do for the area, McRae explained, Film program. Although he never ing his dream – directing for the its having a human experience,” counters with the unexplained at “The Niagara area is one of the returned for his third year, McRae big screen – a reality and maintains Goulden explains. the Port Robinson home will lend most haunted regions in Ontario. said, “I learned a lot. Don’t get me that anything is possible, even life Through past paranormal inves- itself to a good horror fi lm in the Maybe it will bring that into light wrong … But as the old saying after death. tigations and encounters at the Port end, as he planned. a bit more. I’m not sure.” goes, it just wasn’t for me.” For more information on Breath- Robinson residence, which burned “The fi lm takes the stereotypes With the documentary in post- McRae also faces the chore of ing Port Robinson and McRae’s to the ground in February of 2002, of the college generation like sex, production and set to be released in fi nding a production company that feature fi lm concepts, visit the Goulden has collected some star- booze, party/party and throws them 2009 with hopes of presentation at will take him on as director. offi cial website at www.portrobin- tling evidence. out the window. It [the screenplay] the Toronto Film Festival, the most “I need to direct it. I can bring sonroad.com. Newest fad of texting while driving often deadly

By AMBER BLUE reaction time and 91 per cent more Labrador have the highest penalty Staff Writer impaired steering ability, whereas of up to $180. Typing a text message isn’t a big drunk drivers’ performance levels According to the U.S. National deal. It takes no more than a few only fell 12 per cent. Highway Traffi c Safety Adminis- seconds. It isn’t a big deal until January 2008 saw the prohibi- tration, each year there are 2,600 the second your eyes leave the tion of texting while driving in deaths and 300,000 collisions re- road, your hands leave the wheel Washington. Alaska, Louisiana, lated to the use of cellphones while and your car collides with another. Minnesota and New Jersey made it driving. According to the Cabrini Then, that simple text message illegal soon after. College Loquitur, a 17-year-old becomes a big deal. In April, in Nova Scotia, it from Denver was text messaging It’s become almost more com- became illegal to use a handheld while driving and later was charged mon to see people sending a text device to talk or text while driving, with and found guilty of careless message than actually making a and Quebec followed suit in July. driving causing death. After killing phone call. Simply browsing Rog- There are varying opinions on a cyclist he was sentenced to four ers.com reveals that there are at the use of cellphones while driv- years of probation and nine days in least 15 phones with full QWERTY ing. The Canada Safety Council jail. keyboards, phones that users need has said that the current careless “I don’t do it,” says Brenna Land- two hands to use. driving laws are suffi cient and so ers, 21. “My mom would freak out, “I see people do it all the time a cross-country ban would be un- even though she does it,” she adds. when I’m walking,” says Journal- necessary. The Ontario Medical “But if my mom wasn’t in the car ism-Print student Rachel Scapil- Association disagrees however, or I was the only one on the road, lati, 20. “They’re looking at their telling the CBC that drivers who I might. I think it depends on the phones and not paying attention to use a cellphone show decreased situation. I defi nitely wouldn’t do the road at all.” cognitive function and slower reac- it on the highway or anything like CBC.ca reports the fi ndings of a tion times. that though.” British study from September 2008, The fi nes and penalties for cell- “I do it and I know I shouldn’t,” which found drivers who choose phone use while driving vary from says Dana Augello, 20, Music to text while behind the wheel are province to province. In Nova Business student at Five Towns Text messaging and driving is on the rise. Studies have shown drivers even more impaired than someone Scotia a fi rst offence could earn a College in Long Island, N.Y. “But who text while driving are more impaired than those who drive drunk. who drives drunk. Drivers who $50 fi ne. In Quebec it can reach up usually only when I’m stopped at a Photo Illustration by Amber Blue texted had a 35 per cent slower to $115, and Newfoundland and light, stop sign or a side street.” Page 20 NIAGARA NEWS Oct. 10, 2008 off campus Electric bikes a cheaper bet By MICHAEL OWEN them all last winter. Just bundle Staff Writer up,” said Crawford. If you’re sick and tired of pay- “I do not think that it could han- ing for gas and vehicle insurance, dle the winter driving conditions,” an electric bike might be the best said Sheridan. solution to your fi nancial woes. Electric bikes are also less ex- Canadian company Daymak sells pensive to repair. and services electric bikes, from a “Repairs are minimal,” said dealership in St. Catharines. Crawford, who said tires, chains Many students can’t afford and lights may need fi xing. climbing gas prices or gouging “We can get all our parts. We do insurance rates. all our own service. “That’s been the main selling “[Even after a model is no longer feature,” said Shawn Crawford, available] we’ll probably be able to owner of Daymak St. Catharines, get parts for another year or two,” which celebrated its one-year an- said Crawford.” niversary on Oct. 1. There are over a dozen models “I’m currently listed as a second- available ranging from $700 to ary, and it [insurance] costs $80 a $2,500, with charge times between month. If I were to change my sta- four and six hours, and an average tus to primary, it would cost over range of 30-40 kilometres. $230 a month. “That is a very appealing idea, “That’s without collision,” said but I don’t think a bike works for Bartholomew Sheridan, a 21-year- my current lifestyle. I live in a rural old who graduated from the Law area where I need a car to live,” and Security Administration pro- said Sheridan. gram last April. Currently in design by Daymak Electric bikes do not require a is an electric car called the Urbana licence or insurance because, un- Ecar that will be available in both der the Ontario pilot program, they LSV and street versions. are classifi ed as low-speed vehicles According to Daymak’s website, (LSVs) as long as their top speed the Urbana Ecar street version will does not exceed 32km/h, after have top speed of 115 km/h, a range which they are technically electric of 300 km, a charging time of 1.5 motorcycles. hours and a price under $30,000. Riders are required to wear a The Urbana Ecar LSV version helmet, stay off roads with a speed Three electric bikes, already sold, sit in the show room awaiting their owners. will have a top speed of 40 km/h, limit higher than 80km/h and make Photo by Michael Owen a range of 300 km, a charging time sure their bikes have an identifi ca- of the Ministry of Transportation ting pulled over,” said Crawford. sengers. of 1.5 hours and a price under tion sticker and pedals. of Ontario regulations with them Although Crawford indicated The bikes can be used any time $12,000. Since many of the bikes look to clear up any confusion with that many of the Daymak bikes the roads are clear enough to use a “I’ll have one the day I can have similar to gas bikes, it is recom- authorities. could seat two, regulations only regular bicycle. one. I’ll park my [petrol-fueled] mended that riders carry a copy “A lot of our customers were get- allow one rider per bike. No pas- “A couple of customers drove car,” said Crawford. Disabled athlete proves spirit is more important Start your

By HAYLEY KENNEDY The government already con- Staff Writer tributes around $11 million annu- ‘I knew I was Even though someone is missing ally on sporting activities for the an arm, a leg or even the ability to disabled. talented and I walk, that person doesn’t have to In the First World War, Sport for Journalism sit around and do nothing. the Physically Disabled was fi rst didn’t want to be In fact, some do the opposite. introduced as a type of treatment, Traditionally, the ultimate athlete mostly for the blind and amputees. wasting potential.’ is pictured as someone with bulg- This resurfaced during the Sec- ing biceps, a full six-pack and legs ond World War, mainly as a result —Pam Lugg the size of tree stumps. of the vast number of casualties. career early Not everyone looks like that, but According to www.cbc.ca, does it mean that they shouldn’t be Minister for Sport Michael Chong In total, 4,000 athletes competed seen as people with great skills and said, “Sport and physical activity at these games, 1,800 of whom abilities? help maintain Canadians’ health, were wheelchair users. With a prosthetic arm, Pam strengthen our communities and The Disability Groups included Niagara College Lugg, a 20-year-old girl from contribute to our overall quality amputee, cerebral palsy, spinal St. Catharines, played volleyball of life. injury and visually impaired. Journalism-Print through middle school. “It is important that all Canadians Amy Alsop, a paralympic athlete She said that while she did have have access to sport in order to ex- from Saskatoon, said on www.cul- diffi culty with it, she knew she perience these positive benefi ts.“ ture.ca in 2005, that the Canadian Start this January had the skill to play well, so she Canada has been sending special government funds paralympic ath- didn’t let her disability damper her athletes to international competi- letes dollar for dollar per athlete. spirits. tion for years. She said that this has been a huge and graduate in 16 months “I knew I was talented and I didn’t From Sept. 6 to 17, Canada sent boost to the paralympic movement want to be wasting potential.” 143 athletes to the 2008 Paralympic over the last few years. Although you don’t hear much Games in Beijing, China, where Sports for disabled athletes have about these athletes in the media, they used the same venues as the never beenrecognized to the extent For more information they receive a lot of support. 2008 Summer Olympic Games. they are now. 905-735-2211 Ext 7725 In 2006 Ottawa gave $1.5 mil- With close to 150 countries send- Over the years these athletes lion towards getting more people ing competing athletes, there were have overcome many challenges or [email protected] with disabilities into sports. plenty vying for the same goal. and have endured many changes. Oct. 10, 2008 NIAGARA NEWS Page 21 sports Ball hockey night in Canada Increased registration in ball hockey leagues throughout the region By CORY WILKINS individually, or as a team, are Staff Writer guaranteed 14 regular sea- As the popularity of ball hockey son games and a minimum increases throughout the Niagara of two post-season matches. region, sports fans and intramural As for what makes BHI the enthusiasts are embracing the best compared to its com- emerging trend. petitors, McGowan believes Kids, teens and adults – essen- BHI has the “best structure.” tially, all hockey fans – have been “We’re told by customers that playing street hockey for years. we are organized, we have great Who, reading this, has not heard structure,” said McGowan. the infamous “Car!” shout and “Everything is web-based had to move the goal nets from nowadays, and with our online the middle of the road to the curb? page, players can fi nd everything Now, hockey fans have the oppor- they need – league info, schedules tunity to take their hockey experi- and stats, is all online. And our ence to another level. structure has allowed for that.” With a number of ball Dylan Orr, 24, a participant at hockey leagues available in BHI St. Catharines, enjoys the the Niagara region, many fans ball hockey league. have endorsed its popularity. “It is fun. Not only does it Ball Hockey International (BHI) allow players to stay active is just one of many ball hockey and stay in shape, but they get facilities that are here serving all to compete in a great sport.” throughout the Niagara region. Orr is playing in his second Mike McGowan, general manager season on the D2 division of BHI St. Catharines, acknow- Kelsey’s Rampage men’s team. ledges the game’s growth. Players of the Handsome Strangers and Team Jaft battle for the ball in this Sept. 28 ball hockey men’s division McGowan added that prep- “I’d agree that the popularity match in St. Catharines. arations are in place to boost [of ball hockey] is certainly in- Photo by Cory Wilkins ball hockey’s popularity. creasing. We’ve seen the increase land campus of Niagara College. snow or ice, I’ll jump in my snow- specifi cally, Niagara College stu- “I think expansion plans are defi n- in the number of sign-ups. BHI does not have a domed fa- suit and throw on my iPod and dents – sign up? Participants fi rst itely in place. BHI president An- “Our adult age group has had cility like cross-town rival Ball then start some really, really good choose the skill division in which thony Pasto is always promoting the biggest increase in regis- Hockey Ontario (the only roofed snowblowing,” said McGowan. they want to compete. the game in different cities.” trations, especially the ladies hockey pad in all of Canada), “It is amazing how many people Have a student card? Show For registration information, division and co-ed teams.” but that has not stopped BHI volunteer. “A lot of players will your Niagara College student visit the website www.ball- Expanding to the Niagara region from hosting a winter season, see that they have a game that card (or any school, for that hockeyinternational.com, the St. in 2004, BHI now features four running December to February. night and are willing to help clear matter) and receive a dis- Catharines at 1944 Welland Can- facilities, including a hockey pad “In the winter, we only use one of away the snow.” count on the $120 sign-up fee. als Pkwy., or the Welland campus conveniently located at the Wel- our two hockey pads. If there is How can players – and more Players, whether they register site off Woodlawn Road. Hamdani follows love of hockey overseas Foundation auctions Determination pays off with tryout for professional team Toronto Raptors tickets By STEPHEN DYELL tion has paid off for Hamdani as Staff Writer his career in hockey is fl ourishing. The Niagara College Foundation, 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday was $150. His air miles will add up. Munie ‘Hockey to me is He was offered a tryout for a the money-raising arm of the col- Bids will be updated each morn- Hamdani is following his love life. I eat, sleep and team in Dubai, and he is looking lege, is auctioning off two Toronto ing via the Campus Update. across the ocean. to follow his love and move 11,000 Raptors tickets for this Sunday at The winning person will be con- The 20-year-old Hamdani grew breathe hockey ... kilometres away to prove it. Rogers Centre in Toronto. tacted at noon on Friday. up in Merritton in St. Catharines. Dubai, one of the fastest-grow- The value of the tickets is esti- The tickets are directly behind He fi rst hit the ice at Rex Stimers Without hockey in ing cities in the Middle East, is not mated at $240 each. the bench of the visiting team, the Arena at the age of four. known for its hockey. To bid on the tickets, email tle- Philadelphia 76ers. It was then doctors discovered my life, I don’t know Its 2.2 million inhabitants would [email protected] or tele- The tickets can be picked up at Hamdani had a small hole in his rather enjoy a game of cricket or phone Tracy LeBlanc at ext. 7840 the Niagara College Foundation heart as they listened to the extra how I could live.’ football. The average temperature any time before Friday, Oct. 10, offi ce at the Welland campus, Sim- sound that the blood makes as it reaches 24°C. That’s not a good at 11:45 a.m. LeBlanc will let you coe building Room 110. fl ows through the heart. It is called —Munie Hamdani temperature for keeping ice frozen. know where the bidding is at when Find out more information at a heart murmur. “I’m pretty excited about that you contact her. The high bid as of www.niagaracollge.ca. Though fearful of his new-found celebration. and can’t wait to go over there.” problem, he says his heart was with “We got a trip to the mayor’s For now, Hamdani attends Niag- the game as he continued to play. offi ce to receive marble trophies, ara College where he is taking Pre “Hockey to me is life. I eat, which was great.” Media and Design studies. Canada’s Team sleep and breathe hockey,” said The sport has given him more When not working on homework Hamdani. than just the joy of winning. or being at the local rink, he hangs “I coach several teams in Mer- “Hockey has taught me to be- out with his best friends and catch- ritton at levels such as bantam, come more patient with myself. es his favourite team in action. He Who: Toronto Raptors midget and juvenile – more as a Hockey is a process. roots for the Colorado Avalanche. skills adviser for the juvenile team. “You will not become a star “Nothing’s better than just get- Head coach: Sam Mitchell Without hockey in my life, I don’t overnight. It takes practice and ting together with your friends who know how I could live.” effort and, more importantly, deter- you have been with since being a Home: Air Canada Centre, Toronto Hamdani has been with the Mer- mination, to keep pushing yourself toddler.” riton Bulldogs since he was eight to become better. In October 2009, if he makes Born: Sept. 30, 1993 years old. In 1998, he helped lead “I kind of take that into my the team, Hamdani will not have the Bulldogs to the Ontario Minor everyday life and just take it one his friends or family with him but, Achievements: 2006 and 2007 Atlantic Hockey Association champion- step at a time. much like the rest of his life, he is ship where they took fi rst place “Not to rush everything because not scared because he knows to Division Champions and brought home Merriton’s fi rst eventually, after waiting and put- follow his heart through the small championship in over 50 years. ting in an honest effort, everything holes and extra practises. Hamdani netted the game win- will start to fall into place.” Hockey is life for him, and he is For more info: www.raptors.com ner, causing the crowd to erupt in All that patience and determina- willing to go anywhere to live it. Page 22 NIAGARA NEWS Oct. 10, 2008 sports Tri-captains leading by example By JOSEPH CASSIDY friends on and off the court,” said so much and our conditioning Staff Writer Fadayel. “We always talk about is growing. Last year it was a The Niagara Knights men’s bas- our problems and during the game ‘shoot first and then defence’ ketball team has a different strategy we are always talking about how to style. Now we have defence and this year for picking a captain. The make the team better. To be honest, we will play so good that teams coaches have chosen a tri-captain we don’t play too big a role on this will not relax. I feel like last system. Three captains – Nick team because everyone wants the year we were close but had some Fadayel, Lamar Grant and Jeremy same thing: to win.” internal troubles, but now we are Settimi – will shoulder the respon- “The advantages of having three really close, like brothers. It’s sibilities of keeping order among captains,” added Grant, “is that going to be them against our full the players. the players can go to not just one team, all 12 players.” “Our three captains each bring player. All three of us are available Everything is in place for a different forms of leadership skills and all three will go to the coach. championship run. How about the to the table, which is good,” said We don’t go to the coach unless we Canadian fi nals in March at the Niagara Knights Assistant Coach all go together.” University of Northern British Co- Randy Conlon. “Last year was a The tri-captains have an excel- lumbia in Prince George. Might the pretty tumultuous year and when lent strategy, will expect only the Niagara College men’s basketball we hit some rough spots, these best from their teammates and will team be there? guys kind of took the reigns and lower the boom on players who “I believe so,” said Grant. “Even displayed the level of maturity the don’t toe the line. last year we were destructive coaching staff felt was needed, “I will have to put a couple of and lost the last five games, but and, in the end, will make them people on the spot when I have if we get together, we can keep good leaders.” to. The people I put on the spot winning.” The tri-captains will be like are team members that I think can Settimi added, “We are going to a three-headed monster on the dominate and score when they do good. Hopefully, we will play as basketball court wreaking havoc want,” said Fadayel. “For me as a team and win the championship. against their opponents and pre- a captain, I have to like it. It may That is our goal. We have a lot of venting internal squabbling be- come out the wrong way, but re- young talent. We have young guys tween their teammates. member we are family here. If I coming in like Junior Gordon and “It gives different outlooks on criticize you it’s because I love you Arny Nikindu, who are looking the game,” said Settimi. “You’ve and I want what’s best for you.” good for us.” got different players in the roles “I expect everyone to be, one, “We want to compete and fol- of captain. Nick is an inside/out- as team players; two, not to be low through on our promise to side player, I am an outside player selfish; and three, care about be in the top three this year,” said and Lamar is a guard, so you get this team. When you care about Fadayel, in an April 11 interview all sorts of different aspects in the something, you are going to with Niagara News. captains.” succeed.” “We have a young hungry team, “I think the core of tri-captains Added Grant, “I expect defence and I guarantee we will be in the is good being as we are really good from everyone. We are running Canadian fi nals.”

Need to Know

Who: Nick Fadayel Who: Lamar Grant Who: Jeremy Settimi Program: Program: Program: Police Foundations Police Foundations General Arts and Student Student Sciences Student What: Forward What: Guard What: Forward Age: 21 Age: 24 Age: 19 Hometown: Hometown: Hometown: Ancaster Richmond Hill Hamilton Height: 6 ft. 4 in. Height: 6 ft. 2 in. Height: 6 ft. 5 in. Weight: 225 pounds Weight: 190 pounds Weight: 215 pounds Favourite Team: Favourite Team: Favourite team: Los Angeles Lakers New Jersey Nets Cleveland Cavaliers Niagara Knights men’s basketball team tri-captains, are from top, Lamar Favourite Player: Favourite Player: Favourite player: Grant, Nick Fadayel and Jeremy Settimi in the Mackenzie building Kobe Bryant Vince Carter Lebron James gymnasium on Sept. 26. Photo by Joseph Cassidy Students get chance to throw rocks

By SARAH WARD Gord Cornelius, a Police Founda- To some minds, curling isn’t dents to come out. Especially if you Staff Writer tions graduate and second-year Law considered a competitive sport. enjoy any sport, try out for any of When you think of a sport truly and Security Customs student, is an Cornelius disagrees. the varsity teams.” 07-08 Highlights Canadian, what comes to mind? avid curler. “For the last two years that I’ve Success has come from Niagara Hockey, maybe lacrosse? Who says “Personally I love to curl,” he been on the team, the competition in the past with curler Scott Ban- curling is the fi rst sport that comes says. He has been a member of the was tough on the ice. But everyone ner almost qualifying for the Brier OCAA Silver Medal to mind? Niagara College men’s team for the was cool and the different schools Tournament. “He came very close Niagara Men‛s It may not be popular for the past two years. hung off the ice as well. Even to making it.” everyday Canadian sports fan, but Cornelius insisted that this is a though it’s a competitive situation Both Sarkis and Cornelius em- Skips: Matt Meideima, nationally it’s slowly gaining mo- sport anyone can and should par- and all schools are there to win phasize that students should come Curtis Muir mentum. ticipate in. the provs (provincials), it’s still a out and give it a try. Vice: Jeremy Costello At Niagara College it is an in- “We have a variety of skill levels, friendly atmosphere.” For those interested in trying out tramural sport, meaning it’s played from those that have not curled be- Ray Sarkis, co-ordinator of or revamping their skills, the fi rst Second: Jesse Beaulieu through tournaments and not as a fore to those that haven’t in a couple Athletics and Recreation for var- meeting is Oct. 16 at 6 p.m. in the Lead: Cory St. Amand funded sport. All sports are played of years, and even those competing sity sports, added, “We always Mackenzie building on the Welland Coach: Scott Brown through the Ontario Colleges Ath- currently in junior competitive and encourage students with experience campus. There is no cost, except for letic Association (OCAA). men’s/ladies competitions.” to come out. We encourage all stu- a uniform fee. Oct. 10, 2008 NIAGARA NEWS Page 23 sports Knights slay Seneca in pre-season tournament By JOSEPH CASSIDY caria. “This was a great way to start “After only beating Seneca bench and added 12 points. Staff Writer our early season play.” by seven, and not showing up in The tournament MVP was NIAGARA KNIGHTS To the victors go the spoils. In the championship game, the the first half against Georgian awarded to fifth-year veteran MEN’S BASKETBALL The Niagara Knights men’s bas- Knights defeated Georgian Col- [of Barrie], the coach [Beccaria] Bauslaugh for his outstanding ‘08-’09 ROSTER ketball team tallied a championship lege 79-70. challenged the team – which shooting; he averaged 22 points win at the Seneca College Invita- First-year Knights point guard resulted in the Knights opening per game throughout the tour- Chris Karkoulis – 6 ft. 9” – Forward tional Basketball Tournament last Arny Nikindu was named Player the second half with an 11-0 run. nament. Jake Stika – 6 ft. 7” – Forward weekend in Toronto. of the Game with 10 points. We left our egos in the change This is a feather in the cap for Anthony Douglas – 6 ft. 5” – Forward The Knights beat Loyalist Col- “Arny did so much more than room and played like the team this team to start the season, but Demaine Nelson – 6 ft. 6” – Forward lege, of Belleville, 89-49 in their score,” said Beccaria. we are.” they know they have a long, tough Nikkola Rusic – 6 ft. 5” – Forward fi rst game on Friday night. “He had fi ve steals, seven assists Settimi led the team with road to travel to make it to the top. Jeremy Settimi – 6 ft. 5’ – Forward Tournament Most Valuable and a blocked shot. He ran the 32 points in the champion- “Even after winning the Nick Fadayel – 6 ft. 3’ – Forward Player (MVP) Chris Bauslaugh team, kept the defence honest and ship game. tournament,” said Grant, “it Lamar Grant – 6 ft. 2” – Guard led the way with 28 points for the is doing the things a point guard “He [Settimi] is undersized but opened our eyes to realize Anderson St. Valle – 6 ft. 5” – Forward Knights. should do.” quick,” said Beccaria. “He shoots how hard we must still work Chris Bauslaugh – 6 ft 2” – Forward The next game on Saturday was The championship game the three-point shot well and is our to beat the bigger teams in Lincoln Cole – 5 ft. 9” – Guard against the host team, Seneca Col- was a learning lesson for the leading rebounder. order to reach our goal of win- Mike Gartner – 6 ft. – Guard lege, and the Knights were again Knights team. Remember he is last season’s ning the OCAA [Ontario Col- Vaughn Williams – 6 ft. 2” – Guard led by Bauslaugh with 22 points. “After beating Loyalist by a Rookie of the Year and the 2007- leges Athletic Association].” Ryan Wheeler 6 ft. 3” – Forward “To beat them [Seneca College large amount, our team began to 2008 Niagara College Male Ath- The Knights home opener is Arny Nikindu – 6 ft. – Guard of Oakville] in their own gym was pick up bad habits from last year,” lete of the Year. Oct. 14 against Durham Col- J.R. Gordon – 6 ft. 1” – Guard big for our team,” said Niagara said Niagara Knights co-captain Knights co-captain Lamar lege of Oshawa in the Macken- B.J. Michael – 5 ft. 10” – Guard Knight Head Coach Michael Bec- Jeremy Settimi. Grant brought the spark off the zie Gymnasium at 8 p.m. Dunlop claims fi rst Women’s Individual Championship of OCAA By SARAH WARD Management (PGM) program Niagara in the women’s team com- The end of day two would show Open Championship hosted by Staff Writer student, battled through two solid petition. Niagara captured a silver the Hawks widening their lead, Holland College. An exciting day on the greens rounds, carding 74 on day one and 77 medal with a combined score of making it too hard and late for the The tournament runs Oct. 13 turned into gold for Niagara on day two, and winning the champi- 347. Knox completed two rounds Knights to catch up. to Oct. 17. It will be held at the College’s Danielle Dunlop. She onship by one stroke. with a score of 196. The Humber Hawks soared Fox Meadow Golf Club in Strat- became the first female student Dunlop defeated the 2007 The men would also not disap- away with their third consecu- ford, P.E.I. to claim the title of Ontario champion, Maggie Turner, of point in Morrisburg. The Knights tive championship title with an Other top scorers from Niagara Colleges Athletic Association’s Humber College Hawks, in To- would repeat as the “bride’s mates,” impressive 18-stroke victory over were Taylor Boyd, who tied for (OCAA) Women’s Individual ronto, who was within one shot just falling short of winning gold. the Knights, who fi nished with eighth with 174; Matt Hunter, with Championship at the Upper of Dunlop after golfing a 76 on They fell 18 strokes short of the well-earned silver. 152; Justin Riopelle, also with 152; Canada Golf Course in Mor- day two. championship, with a score of 606 The Knights will move to Adam Briggs, with 154; and Davey risburg, Ont., from Sept. 30 to She ultimately fell short and had combined. Prince Edward Island to partici- Evan, also with 154. Caley Cam- Oct. 1. to settle for the silver medal. Dun- Day one would see Humber with pate in the Ping Canadian Col- bell fi nished tied for eighth for the Dunlop, a Professional Golf lop and Kendall Knox represented a small fi ve-shot lead over the men. lege’s Athletic Association Golf women’s team with 151. Page 24 NIAGARA NEWS Oct. 10, 2008 arts & entertainment

McKenna is (from left) Joel McKenna, Ryan McKenna, Danielle Oegema (violin on the album, Harlots and Savages) Danno O’Shea and Tom Nemes (bass on the album). By JESSICA MOYSE (vocals), Joel McKenna (guitar) and jaded enough to know that you just a lyric or a note isn’t all there is rier between stage and audience Staff Writer Danno O’Shea (drums). Recently never know.” to music. because that barrier is a fake one,” They are a band with a distinct the band added saxophone player Laura Hamilton, 20, is a fi rst- “Music is all about capturing the says Ryan. personality. They make you feel Nelson Beattie, originally of the time patron of the London Arms in moment,” says Ryan. Dave McLeod, 35, of Welland, that you’re sitting around, hanging local band The Funky Truth. St. Catharines. One of the traits distinguishing and Cameron Pelletier, 34 of Font- out with your friends reminiscing, “He got up on stage and we didn’t “What makes McKenna great is McKenna from other bands is the hill, come to see McKenna at the drinking cheap beer and singing want him to get off,” says Ryan. their ability to appeal to everyone. If band’s wamth towards audience London Arms every Tuesday. songs ripped right out of the ‘90s It appears that it is possible to you’re somehow unimpressed with members. Ryan makes an effort to “They’re entertaining and quite Come in out of the cold, sit make a living in the Niagara music their talent or choice of songs, their visit every table during set breaks good,” says McLeod. down and have a Guinness with the scene. However, when asked about genuine personalities and sense of and learn a bit about his audience. McKenna plays at the Lon- Hamilton-based band, McKenna. becoming famous, Ryan says he is humour will get you every time.” “I want to get to know everyone don Arms every Tuesday and at McKenna is made up of three hopeful but skeptical. McKenna is conscious of the and have everyone get to know The Mansion House, also in St. founding members: Ryan McKenna “We are experienced, savvy and show experience and aware that me. I want to break down the bar- Catharines, every Wednesday. Punk tour crosses from Europe to Canada By JORDAN NUNZIATO on touring Canada. The punk scene Inquisition), guitarists Smith and antly drinking and watching bands ed Kingdom called Sonic Boom Staff Writer up here is still crazy, and to be on Matt Sherwood with bassist Garth play through the day and evening. Six, friends from the Netherlands, “Shut the f!$% up and play!” tour with these amazing bands, we Petrie (ex-Count Me Out), and Some details of the day in- radical punk scene Antillectual, screams an audience member couldn’t ask for more,” says vocal- drummer Eric Kane united to form clude the short blasts of spring Agnostic Front, Hoods, Madball through the noise of the packed ist Thomas Barnett. the highly political and staunchly rain storms followed by rapidly and us played,” says Kane. Strike Anywhere show at The Cas- The tour featured the band on the activist approach to hardcore and clearing skies and sunshine, tem- The band just kicked off its Por- bah on June 11. road with fellow rockers Hostage punk, drawing infl uence from peratures dropping and climbing, tugal/UK/Ireland/Japan Punka- The stage was dark; all that Life, This Is a Standoff, Carpenter stalwart acts Avail and 7 Seconds. mud-caked shoes, drunken young foolic! 2008 tour with a variety could be seen through the tall, and The Flatliners. The band now complete, Strike teenagers making out, a skinhead of local and international bands, lanky Hamilton punks were crew Guitarist Matt Smith recalls the Anywhere (derived from an old (anti-racist, of course) apparel ta- from Sept. 19 to Oct. 11. members setting up amp cabinets, tour. “It was a fun tour fi lled with Inquisition song) released its de- ble with fi ne scarves and hound’s- For news on the tour, band tuning guitars and checking mics. many long drives, beautiful, deso- but EP, Chorus of One. tooth jackets. merchandise, info, or song listen- It wasn’t said, but somehow every- late landscapes, great bands and Post-release, the band signed to “A neat dual male and female ing, visit www.myspace.com/ one knew they were coming. mad, brilliant Canuck men and Jade Tree Records and released voiced ska-ish band from the Unit- strikeanywhere. The audience then quieted sud- women at these shows.” Change is a Sound in August denly, just for a split second, as “I’m so thankful for everyone 2001. the band approached. With the fi rst spending this time with us, singing Following its 2001 punk-rock step of the band members onto the along, bringing your wit, heart and innovation was Exit English in stage’s wooden fl oor, the raging fury to make this more than just 2003 and later a rarities compila- crowd exploded and the lead sing- some kind of ragged, distorted, or tion To Live in Discontent in er’s voice penetrated the space. fl eeting entertainment.” January 2005. “Let’s hear it for the other bands, The quintet of fi rst-hand mod- For the latest full-length album f!#$ us,” screams the singer of the ern-day punks is not the played the members hooked up with Fat newly crowned kings of punk as out and nauseatingly clichéd act Wreck Chords and released Dead they face the brilliant stage lights. that we’ve seen, heard and made FM in June 2006. Without warning, the guitars, bass into a fad for a few short weeks. Since the move from Jade Tree and drums reach a deafening vol- Rather, it is a band that has broken to Fat the band has been touring ume. The show begins. through the bounds of standard non-stop at home and interna- The melodic hardcore and punk mainstream punk with twists and tionally. rock fusion from Richmond, Va., turns and added doses of gun “Our European tour last May is back with its all-out Canadian powder fused to ignite a fury of was incredible; it was something Two Thousand Voices Tour. heavy melodic marvel. we never dreamed could happen.” If you were living under a rock Strike Anywhere is a political Kane says. “The fi rst four days of for the month of June, the tour band, with lyrics touching on this tour were fi lled with variety. was 19 insane dates kicking off in such issues as police brutality, The Jera on Air festival in Ys- Kingston, Ont., June 6 and ending anti-capitalism, women’s rights, seltsyn, Netherlands, was more The members of Strike Anywhere (from left) Matt Smith, Garth Petrie, in Banff, Alta., June 29. animal rights and globalization. like a rural fair with circus tents Thomas Barnett, Eric Kane and Mark Miller. “We could not be more stoked In 1999 vocalist Barnett (ex- containing Dutch families pleas- Submitted photo Oct. 10, 2008 NIAGARA NEWS Page 25 arts & entertainment Nobel Prize winner evokes blindness One might fi nd this confusing around her lost their vision? section of power and social order. to follow, but on closer inspec- Seeing Could she possibly be the leader The dialogue is honest and Blindness tion it isn’t. of the blank ballot rebellion? wordy, forcing the reader to read It is as though Saramago wants The characters remain ambigu- between the lines at times. the reader to be blind too, stum- ous, a factor that refl ects the am- Seeing is written in the same bling over points of conversation biguity of the storyline itself. style as Blindness, which capti- in a sea of white pages and words, Saramago has the ability to vates the reader as they become as the majority of the characters in keep you hanging on and asking engrossed in his detailed investi- By RACHEL SCAPILLATI Blindness must. By LYNSEY KITCHING for more, as the plot unravels gation into the rights of the voter. Book Review The description of what the doc- Book Review and reveals this novel’s shocking The novel is 320 pages and is Imagine living in a world of tor’s wife must see as her blind Vision has returned to the hum- secrets through an inventive dis- published by The Harvill Press. whiteness where there is no counterparts turn into animals is bled citizens of the capital city, yet variation in colour, shade or horrifi c. the mysterious nature behind the brightness. It begs the question: Is this is white blindness still lingers. Imagine relying solely on an- how society would turn out should It’s voting season. Politicians other person who can still see ev- an epidemic of blindness spread in are suited up and competing erything in its colourful splendour, real life? on platforms, publicly giving the only one in the world left with Would there be government? speeches containing promises, his or her vision. Would there be religion? comparisons, compromises and This is what the characters of Would there be racism? verbal warfare. José Saramago’s Nobel Prize for It’s an interesting concept to say Behind the scenes, conspiracy Literature’s Blindness face when the least. lurks and whispers in the candi- an epidemic of white blindness With hauntingly realistic grav- date’s ears. overtakes Great Britain and pos- ity, the story brings that concept All seems under control, but sibly the world. home as the characters struggle as the tallies roll in, neck collars Led by the “doctor’s wife,” the not only to survive, but also to begin to tighten. lone sighted person in the story, a remain sane. The question, “Are all the bal- group of blinded people are forced Blindness is a masterpiece of lots coming in blank?” becomes a together in an abandoned asylum the modern world, enlightening reality. Who is watching? Who is where all of the infected victims the reader with the darkest wants listening? Who is secretly fronting of this epidemic are secluded. of mankind, while allowing an the silent rebellion? Unspeakable things happen to enduring kind of hope to shine In this thought-provoking the characters there, but the doc- through. continuation to Blindness, José tor’s wife carries them all through It is quite nice to see something Saramago, strikes a chord with all like a beam of hope. besides the regular Armageddon of those who have or have never The reader is not supplied with garbage. wanted to turn in a blank ballot. the name of the characters, only After a while, the whole “end of We revisit the lives of many with vague terms such as “the the world” thing gets old. of the surviving characters doctor’s wife” and “the girl with Saramago does not dally on of Blindness, as their hor- the dark glasses.” “literature-special-effects” but on rifi c past resurfaces in the face This only adds to the peculiarity the most simplistic and greatest of political distress and paranoia. of the style of writing, along with force that guides as us all through How was one woman, the the fact there are no punctuation our bleakest hours. wife of a doctor, capable of re- marks for dialogue. The instinct to survive. taining her sight while all those New ironclad adaptation Infinite angst for of popular comic classic Nick and Nora Tal (Canadian favourite Jay Ba- but what he builds isn’t what they job of portraying the spoiled, Nick and ruchel). Ironman expect. genius playboy that is Stark, and Nora’s infi- What ensues is a night of gay This movie is a decent comic then moulding the character into nite playlist Christmas shows, turkey sand- book adaptation. It pays homage the spoiled, genius, idealistic su- wiches, mysterious bands and fan- to the old Ironman while blending perhero that is Ironman. tastic music that will make your a good deal of humour and action. Gwyneth Paltrow gives an ad- heart warm and your mind swim Downey Jr. does an excellent equate performance as Polly Potts, with the possibilities of what By MIKE SHEELER Tony Stark’s personal By JESSICA MOYSE can happen in one fateful night. Movie Review assistant. Potts and Movie Review Cera plays the role he plays After a highly successful Stark have a forbid- Where’s Fluffy? best, a fumbling yet adorable pa- theatrical release, Ironman is den love dynamic On the surface, this is the ques- thetic man too noble to be the jerk setting his sights on the DVD that is compelling yet tion everyone is asking in the new other men have been. market. predictable. fi lm Nick and Norah’s Infi nite Although it still isn’t old, Ironman tells the story of a The movie deals Playlist. one wonders how long he is technical engineering prodigy, loosely with issues However, the actual story is going to ride that train and Tony Stark (Robert Downey of terrorism and war more ridden with teen angst, an whether men like this exist. Jr.). Stark loses his father at a profi teering. unlikely series of events and a Dennings does a fantastic job young age. He grows up and These issues are guy too good to be true after all playing Norah, although when takes the reins of Stark Enter- relevant today. he’s been through. pretty girls play prises, the weapons company Leaving most of While dealing ugly girls, it’s his father built. Previously be- its message to hero with the heartbreak hard to feel sym- ing lef by family friend Obedia standards, Ironman over his semi-recent pathy for their Stain (Jeff Bridges), the com- delivers enough to breakup, Nick (Mi- “I’m so ugly and pany starts creating new cutting be enjoyable start to chael Cera) goes to plain” ranting. edge-killing devices for the fi nish for avid comic a gig with his band, The movie over- U.S. Army. fans and casual mov- The Jerkoffs, and all was a bubble- During a sales mission to iegoers alike.The ac- meets Norah (Kat gum fantasy from Army Command, in the Middle tion delivers when it Dennings), who the minds of East, Stark is injured and then happens and brings a asks him to be her obvious outcasts, captured in an attack by local sense of satisfaction, boyfriend for fi ve and it will make insurgents. Using a magnet to although, I wish there minutes. you laugh for the keep shrapnel from entering his had been more of it. This situation majority of it. heart, the enemy keeps Stark I guess leaving me upsets both his However, if alive. The insurgents force Stark wanting more bodes ex-girlfriend Tris you’re looking to build weapons for them with well if Ironman 2 is (Alexis Dziena) and for depth, look Stark Enterprises equipment, in the works. her ex-boyfriend elsewhere. Page 26 NIAGARA NEWS Oct. 10, 2008 arts & entertainment McMahon’s brilliance Music industry speaks locally Music industry experts and works in or is interested in learn- members of the growing Niagara ing about the industry or music in music scene will come together Niagara is invited to attend. for the fi rst time Oct. 18. According to a media release, The event is hosted by Norris- speakers will include those from Whitney Communications, the the Society of Composers, Au- publisher of Canadian Musician, thors and Music Publishers of Professional Sound, Professional Canada, the American Federation Lighting and Canadian Music of Musicians as well as additional Trade magazines. speakers from radio, the media People from the local music and communications. There will community will be able to meet also be live performances. and connect with various areas The event begins at 10 a.m. in of the industry and get exclusive the Brock Room of the Four Points information about resources Sherton hotel on Schmon Parkway available to them. Industry lead- in St. Catharines. Registration, as ers from Southern Ontario and well as a fee of $35 plus GST is Western New York are scheduled required to attend. Registration is available online Anyone who plays in, at www.niagaramusicforum.com One Man Failure

By CHRIS CARR as all his slow songs do (read: bor- Staff Writer ingly?) until the chorus. Oh, that With stripped-down production chorus. Morello’s voice quivers in and simple, three-chord rhythms, and out in a way that made me roll The Night Watchmen’s The Fabled up the windows in my truck and City (Sony) makes you forget Tom blush as I skipped the track. Morello is considered one of the On this album, Morello fl exes revolutionary guitarists of all time. his celebrity muscles and has Serj Submitted Photo Morello’s last solo offering, One Tankian (of System of a Down) and Man Revolution (Epic), gave a Shooter Jennings (Of…Shooter By: AMBER BLUE standout theme seems to be one somber, acoustic overtone that re- Jennings?) sing on the album. The Glass Staff Writer of optimism and the lyrics come fl ected his uber- Tankian’s vocal Passenger Andrew McMahon had leukemia. from a place where struggles are political lyrics. expertise is wasted Some would argue that he would wrestled with hope, rather than In this second The Fabled as he only sings have been justifi ed in writing an al- wallowed in. album, Mo- City backup vocals on bum about it. But he didn’t. Instead, The album, which sticks to the rello’s lyrics still Lazarus on Down. on Jack’s Mannequin’s sophomore piano-driven melodies that fans have a heavy po- Jennings, a country release, The Glass Passenger, the of McMahon are accustomed to, litical infl uence; singer, is again un- has taken some of the focus off his however, the necessary on the piano playing and more on Jack’s pop-rock-esque 10th track, The Mannequin as a whole, rather than rhythms negate any legitimacy his Iron Wheel. the Andrew McMahon show. words had. The 11th and fi nal track, Rise to On Bloodshot only a glimpse In the second song on the album, Power, is a song about telling your of piano comes through the heavy What Ever It Takes, Morello uses girlfriend to, yeah you guessed it, some awesome acoustic guitar rise to power. 63267956 guitars, and the Bright Eyes-esque What Gets You Off, is heavily per- effects and combines them with I’m all for female empowerment, cussion driven. a powerful, steady kick drum to but Morello fails to tell you in this Passenger, like Jack’s Manne- make a pretty solid tune. That slow, drawn-out song how or why quin’s previous release Everything seems to be where the solidness of you’d encourage her to do so. Fur- in Transit, is a summer album that the tunes stops, though. thermore, what kind of power? I Seaway Mall, Welland • 905.714.7821 ,ironically, was released just as Night Falls is a love ballad can only make wild assumptions. summer was winding down. massacred by Morello’s carved-of- Is it presidential, domineering or Crashing and The Resolution wood vocal chords. It’s as if Clay both? I say both because anything Weekly with their poppy piano runs, happy Aiken sang Barry White, but in that gives this album even an iota Specials harmonies and sing-a-long lyrics reverse. of exciting material can only help. are what California would sound Staying with uncomfortable On a scale from one to Evil Em- MONDAY like if it were a song. things, the sixth track, Midnight pire, Tom Morello’s Night Watch- 2 for 1 Wings (4:30 to Close), $4 Tallboys The album’s stand-out song, the In The City of Destruction begins men’s The Fabled City gets a two. (Canadian Only, 4:30 to Close) seven and a half-minute Caves, TUESDAY was written during McMahon’s 1/2 price starters (4:30 to 7pm), $1 off hospital stays and is reminiscent of Domestic Pints (4:30-7pm) his other epic, Konstantine, from WEDNESDAY his days with Something Corpo- $1 off 1 piece Fish & Chips, rate. With shifts in the tempo, in- $1 off Domestic Pints (4:30-7pm) THURSDAY strumentation and melody, it could be mistaken for two songs. $11.99 1/2 Rack of Ribs, The fi rst four minutes are sparse $1 off Domestic Pints (4:30-7pm) FRIDAY and showcase McMahon’s vulner- able vocals and very little instru- $3.50 Jagers, 1/2 price starters (9pm to Close) mentation aside from his trade- SATURDAY mark piano. Following the shift, Bucket of Corona $21 it turns to a pop, guitar-driven SUNDAY sing-a-long contrasting the lyrics $4 Tallboys (Canadian Only), 1/2 price starters “the walls are caving in, there’s no Always SERVING BREAKFAST one here but me.” tap! ON SAT. & SUN. STARTING AT 8AM McMahon had leukemia, but un- on less his listeners knew that going Hours: in, they likely wouldn’t know it and Mon-Wed 11am-12am • Thurs-Fri 11am-1am • Saturday 8am-1am • Sunday 8am-11pm that is largely the reason behind the

brilliance of this album. Submitted photo Oct. 10, 2008 NIAGARA NEWS Page 27 lifestyle he said / she said Weekly non-professional advice from both perspectives* Q: I have been seeing this this reaction is key. roadblocks, then have a seri- at http://www.niagaracollege. boys. girl for over a month here If she recoiled in fear and ous discussion. Honesty is ca/counselling/. Sleep is often hard when quit- and there. Things were go- would not consider THINK- usually the best policy. Yes, I Kicking an addiction is not ting. Exercise will not only ing great until the sexual ING about sexual exploration, said usually. If the conversa- easy. Luckily there are many get you into shape (which is relationship started. We are then you might be headed tion results in a gap with no services in the Niagara region usually sub par in people with compatible in all ways but down a path where YOU will compromise, be respectful that can help ease these tran- an enjoyment for narcotics) this one. I am explorative be the one making all the and honest and bow out before sitions. but it will help regulate your while she is conservative. compromises and sacrifi ces in things get worse. Trust. The Alcohol and Drug Treat- sleep because of a lack of I do care for this girl, but the relationship in other areas ment Centre (Niagara) is a free energy. I’m not about to ask her to as well. service offered in St. Catha- Friends can help. I don’t Q: I’m struggling with an ad- change, and the sexual part Based on my personal expe- rines. The offi cial website mean you need to tell them. diction to drugs and I want of a relationship is important rience, relationships are all outlining specifi cs, including Just their company will help. a way out. I’m embarrassed to me. I didn’t see this com- about compatibility, and if sex contact information, is http:// Knowing you have support about it and it’s starting to ing and now I realize I can’t is important to you, you might www.adtcniagara.ca/. lends a person strength. After affect my entire life. Until deal with this long term. Am need to evaluate whether giv- Lastly, your friends and fam- all, there may still be a re- now I’ve been able to keep I wrong to feel it can’t work ing it up is worthwhile. ily care about you, so there lapse. If one happens to any it secret but that won’t last or am I just being shallow? He said: I think everyone who is no need to be embarrassed degree, you have to bite the long if I keep going the way What should I do? has gone through the dating about reaching out to them for bullet and get help. Bettering I am. I refuse to go to rehab scene for any length of time support during this diffi cult one’s self is never easy. Good as that would let the prover- has had this problem in one time in your life. luck and ... trust. She said: Many things need to bial “cat out of the bag” to shape or form. What you have He said: Congrats on step 1. be taken into account in situ- friends and family. I think come across is what I like to You know what your problem ations such as these. People I’m strong enough to beat it refer to as a “deal breaker.” It is. You’ve identifi ed it and are (and by that I mean, conser- on my own but I don’t know is something you can’t accept trying to change. Bravo! Now *The advice expressed in He vatives and liberals) tend to where to start. Help. or compromise on. let’s snowball that good en- Said / She Said is for entertain- have very differing views It appears that sex is high on ergy. Three things. Hobbies, ment purposes only. Questions concerning the topic of sex. your priority list. Don’t let She said: The hardest part exercise and friends. There of a more serious nature may The bigger question should anyone tell you this is wrong, of dealing with addiction is will be a gap to fi ll for a time not be printed, but will be ad- be, who is willing to compro- but how you handle the situ- asking for help, which you and it won’t be easy. Under- dressed through email, or may be mise, and by how much? ation can easily become just have done by writing to us, so stand that a human is more referred to a professional coun- When you brought up the that. If it’s early in the sexual congrats. There are counsel- powerful than a drug. You can sellor. For emergency situations, topic of this sexual difference part of the relationship, give it ling services provided by Ni- beat an inanimate material. please contact Kids Help Phone with your girlfriend, did she another go. Maybe two. Make agara College for all students I suggest pursuing an interest at 1-800-668-6868. recoil in fear and shut down sure it’s going to be a problem dealing with any issues they that keeps your mind from entirely, or did she at least lis- in the long term before you may not be able to face alone. the withdrawals or absence ten and try to understand your have a knee-jerk reaction. If These services are outlined on of the drug. Reading, writing, point of view? In my opinion, there is no improvement or the Niagara College website movies, friends or even girls/

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By CARLY SNIDER had an agenda, an agenda that involved a standing neighbourhoods were rich in Europe onStaff Writer a lot more walking and ashoestring lot more stairs. colour and culture. g Five years ago we made a Cinque Terre is an Italian national Our train to Germany passed through promise. My best friend An- park that consists of fi ve towns, all fi elds of sunfl owers, and soon we were drea and I vowed that we would linked with a walking trail. in Munich. We toured the beer halls and be world travelers together. Andrea and I decided to spend our beer gardens and wandered the streets After fi ve years of dreaming and full day in Cinque Terre walking from on our fi rst night. six months of planning, we were the last town to the fi rst town. Six hours, The self-proclaimed nerdiest day of stepping off an airplane onto Euro- hundreds of stairs and gallons of perspi- our trip followed when we took a day- pean soil prepared for nine countries in ration later, we made it back to our hos- trip to Salzburg and took a self-guided six weeks with one backpack. tel. The vistas made it all worthwhile. tour of all the Sound of Music sights In typical university graduate fashion, A train strike kept us in Cinque Terre we could fi nd. It was a lot of walking Andrea and I planned a whirlwind tour for an extra day. We spent it on the but the fresh mountain air in our lungs of Europe. We decided not to use a tour beach. There were no complaints. brought us energy. group but to do things on our own, al- We left the Riviera and headed to Our next day trip took us to Dachau. lowing us to go where we wanted, when Rome to walk through ruins older than It was the most overwhelming day of we wanted. the Bible. We imagined spectacles in the the entire adventure. We walked through First came four days in Paris. We Coliseum, braved the masses of tourists the gates, with the words “Arbeit Macht breezed through museums, strolled at the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Frei” (“Work will make you free”) through parks and ate baguettes and Steps and marveled at the Vatican. above our heads. We walked through the cheese. After seeing hundreds of works of art silent barracks. We looked into the omi- After seeing the Mona Lisa, which by the most infl uential artists of all time nous ovens. Words still cannot describe was disappointing at best, walking to the - Michelangelo, Bernini and Da Vinci - the feelings that washed over us as we top of what felt like every staircase in we left for Florence. walked through the grounds soaked in Paris and falling in love with the Eiffel The agenda for Florence had three horrible history. Tower in all of its glittering beauty, items: art, gelato and leather. We saw the We left Munich the next day for a tour we had to say “au revoir” to Paris and nervousness in the eyes of Michelange- of small-town Germany. We started in “ciao” to Italy. lo’s David, the nervousness you can only Rothenburg, a medieval walled town, We had just over a week to see Italy see when standing below him. We ate the with nothing to do but a night walking and it started with what I knew was my best homemade gelato we’d ever had, tour and shopping. Our accommoda- favourite place in the whole world. and I bought an Italian leather purse. tions were adorable: a small guesthouse From the second I stepped out of our After 24 hours, we were on a train with cheap food and good beer. hostel room and onto our sunny terrace to Venice. We pushed through crowds We left Rothenburg to cruise up the to take my fi rst gulp of sea air, Cinque in San Marco Square and along the Rhine River. Countless castles, an over- Terre was breathtaking. Its pastel build- Rialto Bridge. Other than those spe- night in a one street town and two days From top clockwise: the Eiff el Tower in Paris, gondolas ings were nestled into hills covered in cific sights, we simply took in the of relaxing on a boat later, we ended our pass through the canals of Venice, and overlooking the vineyards and the sea crashed against sight that was Venice. We sat along visit to Germany in Cologne. Mediterranean Sea in Cinque Terre, Italy. the rocks below. All I wanted to do was canals watching gondolas glide past We ended our time on the continent in Photos by Carly Snider curl up on the terrace with a two-euro while we ate more gelato and pizza Brussels, the land of chocolate, beer and bottle of wine and take it all in, but we and wrote postcards. It was an incred- French fries. It is also the home of Man- ibly relaxing two days in the midst of nekin Pis, a foot-and-a-half tall statue of our fast-paced adventure. a boy peeing. That is the sight to see in We left Venice on a night train to Vi- Brussels. enna for a day of disappointments. The I left Brussels and discovered the museum we had been looking forward delight of cheap air travel. For 30 euros to visiting was closed, the Vienna op- I fl ew to Scotland, where I met my sis- era’s season was over, as was the phil- ter for a week of camping just outside harmonic’s, and it rained. Glasgow. I don’t know if it was staying We made the best of what we could in one place for an entire week or see- before heading to Prague to stay with at a ing my sister, but suddenly six weeks friend’s fl at where we fi nally did laundry felt very long, and I got my fi rst taste of in a washing machine, ate homemade homesickness. meals and slept in a real bedroom. I spent my last day in Scotland in Prague’s post-Communism culture Glasgow alone. I took a bus tour, visited wasn’t as glaringly obvious as we ex- free museums and fi nally caught my pected, but its castle, gardens and long- fl ight to Dublin to meet Andrea again. Travelling alone proved not to be as lonely as I thought it would be. A day to myself was just what I needed to get out of my homesick slump and get ready for my last week. We did Dublin in two days. We wan- dered the city by day and travelled by cheap public transit to small seaside towns in the evenings. We were stay- ing with a local, so we learned lots of history, saw neighbourhoods we never would have seen on our own and went to a real pub instead of a touristy one. We ended our adventure in London, England. One of our friends from high school lives there now, so we had another fl at to stay in. We saw all the important English sights: Buckingham Palace, the Globe Theatre and Hyde Park. We ate take-away and went to a BBC Proms concert at the Royal Albert Hall. Before we knew it, our time in England, and in Europe, was over. Nine countries, six weeks and one backpack was a once-in-a lifetime op- portunity that had exhausted me, but I know I’d do it all again. In fact, I have a new list of places to go, so it may be a twice-in-a lifetime experience instead.