January 30, 2006 by SPOKENewspaper

Minimum wage

Wiii

goes up 30 cents On Feb. 1 will be

Spring break

under 18 will make $7.25 an hour.

Monday, January 30, 2006

learning

newsroom

for

News

Conestoga College, Kitchener, Ont.

www.conestogac.on.ca/spoke

MOLSON

38th Year

Conestoga has also received a $

Hallman foundation, which

sometimes

forward with plans to switch

$1 million

on King

at the

The new campus will offer programs including apprenticeship (Photo by Jon Molson)

108 University Ave. E. in Waterloo, Conestoga College’s Waterloo campus.

University Heights, located at will

be the new home

for

campuses

where there are more services available and also from our point of view, it is more cost-effective.”

process that included offering the former high school to other school boards. But a commitment from the

Conestoga’s board of governors approved the almost $6-million purchase on Nov. 28. .Conestoga

provincial government to pay for

expressed interest in purchasing

will help cover the costs involved

don’t want to be in

that

students

campu.ses,

little

they want to be in bigger

about

say,

look,

someone has

recognition and we would like you to give us three million and in return we will put your name on the building. That is what we’re trying to do right now and you

University

all

the operating dollars for appren-

ticeship training

and prep studies

“People

who

give us a $3-mil-

in this initiative.

said.

Tibbits said before the commitment from the provincial government the risks for this initiative were much greater as the college

lion donation expect

faced the expenses of purchasing and renovating as well as funds for student training.

“Now we know

money

that

guaranteed and that is important obviously to get government funding in place, so that is what’s changed and made it worthwhile for us to move ahead,” he said.

You

tion.

some

recogni-

don’t just say thank you

and then leave, you have to sit down and talk about what kind of recognition. There are very few people who are going to give $3 million anonymously. I mean, some might, but most people want to be recognized for doing that.”

believes the recent federal elecmade it difficult in acquiring

tion has

additional

government funding. all, you don’t know who

just that,” Tibbits said.

Tibbits said Conestoga plans to the former Waterloo campus and interest has been expressed from potential buyers. sell

“Our goal now

have

you

power and second-

they are in power."

substantial donation.

“People say things during elections but I’m more interested in what they say after the election when

year, so

don’t get those in five minutes,” he

Heights after the Waterloo Region District School Board put the building on the market a couple of years ago. The college initially didn’t have the resources to go through with the purchase and had to wait out a

find

total

some minor

language training and adult educa-

“We

given us a million and they just want

training, culinary studies, English

improving the services," said John Tibbits, president of Conestoga

cost

— No. 4

promi.scs during elections arc

Tibbits said he hopes the gift from the Hallman foundation will help Conestoga obtain an even

“If

.square feet.

College.

.$7.5 million.

“Our goal is to really grow the Waterloo campus, so we can offer more services to the students and keep growing it so we can continue

The donation

front the

Street to 115,000

tion.

raised.

Hallman Foundation will be spent on renovation and equipment purchases, which are expect-

and complete renovations on the former University Heights Secondary School. The acquisition of University Heights will almast double the amount of space at the Waterloo campus, which will increase from ties

square feet

will

upfront

.$5()(),()()()

and the other half when another

facili-

going to be

is ly,

give the college

facility

home

million donation from the l.ylc S.

Conestoga’s Waterloo campus change its location in September as the college moves will

60.()()()

quickiy approaching

Before you go on that long-awaited trip, make sure you take some precautions.

journalism students

Waterloo campus has new By JON

be number 1?

stiii

mmmammBsmmssm

increased to $7.75 an hour. People

News

Conestoga

KPI time again and the college hoping to retain its No. 1 status.

It’s

.sell

this

wc could move all activity September, but if we don’t we’ll

to re-evaluate

then, but that

our goal to sell the campus,” he said. “Obviously it is important to sell it because we want to put the is

money from the sale toward the purchase of the other one and that is the key for us, but we can’t panic and we’re quite prepared to hang on

to the

former campus.”

Tibbits said the increased space at the

new campus

will allow for

greater student enrolment. “I think we will be training roughly on an annual basis approximately another 500 apprentices. That is quite significant,” he said. “So we’ll be able to grow the apprenticeship there hopefully by 1 5 or 20 per cent, which is a significant growth.” He said so far the college has raised about $1.5 million.

Continued on Page 2

“First of

College faculty to take strike vote Feb. 7 By BRANDON WALKER The

Public

Ontario

Employees Union college students

Service

sent a letter to

the province,

Jan. 10, stating concerns $87.3 mil-

lion

funding from

Feb. 7 for a strike vote.

“We’ve had issues on workload

what presents a problem. They also don’t receive any benefits or have

rounds of bar-

any union representation,” Boettger

mandate

said.

happen,” said Boettger.

workload, not salary.

Rae

the

Review isn’t being used to hire more support staff. The letter said isn’t put toward if the money

over the

last three

gaining,” said Boettger.

“We now

have data. A number of faculty at each college have logged their teaching, marking and preparation activities and we’ve supplied them to an independent agency. (The

improving the quality of education

agency has) compiled this documentation and presented it to the

by hiring support, faculty may

bargaining table.

According to Chris Bentley, the minister of training, the $87.3 million from the Quality Improvement will

make improvements

“students will see and benefit from

—

immediately and accountability agreements will ensure the extra money produces results.” The letter states the government’s first

principle for the funding

hire

more support

staff

is to

and faculty

so students will have better access to

new

course, the part-time

teacher has even said,

and

more pressure, he more strain on

that puts

may

“What

get a strong

some bargaining

not be taking the situation

seriously

and

believe

a proposed date of

Boettger said the system is underto get more funding he

funded and

thinks they need to take this step. “It’s

opinion, the government a

strike

mandate would help them under-

students.

The union has

“In

to get

stand our issues,” he said.

not a pleasant step to take,

hurtful

it’s

us as faculty because

we’re not taken seriously and to students because they might feel they won’t complete the year.

Continued on Page 2

said the college system from serious quality issues (in the Rae Review),” he said. “Teacher contact time (and) class size (are the main issues).” Boettger said one of the other

“Bob Rae

strike.

Fund

If it’s

we’re looking to do

their teachers.

management

only

says college

planned

spending the money to hire faculty for additional enrolment and none of the mon^y would be spent on improving student/teacher ratios or on reducing class size. Walter Boettger, president of Local

237,

Conestoga avoid a

gaining

which

faculty, said

strike.

represents

he hopes to

Boettger said this bar-

session

has

been

about

suffers

issues the union

with

trying to deal

the idea of hiring full-time

faculty as

opposed

to part-time.

“Part-timers receive significantly less

compensation for

their

work.

Also, they don’t have a commit-

ment

to the college

lege doesn’t have a

because the col-

commitment

them,” he said.

“Not

say

part-time

faculty

aren’t dedicated but the available

time they have for students is less. One of the reasons is they need to

work

order to

more than one

location in

make ends meet; maybe

few hours at Conestoga, a few at Fanshawe, a few at Mohawk. “Their sole income is not at one place of employment. And that’s

(Photo

by Benjamin Richmond)

Raising the ante Conestoga students

try their luck at

the college on Jan. 17.

See

story on

Student Poker Championships’ second qualifying poker night at

Page

News

— SPOKE, January 30, 2006

Page 2

Teachers not overworked

Now deep thoughts ...with Random

Conestoga College

questions answered by

What

random students

has been your worst

Continued from Page 1 “But it’s one of those situations where we need to make the point in order to get the college system back on track, to ensure quality for future students and returning students.

talk

all

about

but

it’s

time to do something.’’

Valentine’s

Day experience?

Boettger said strike

involved, but I

boyfriend and

went out

bus and since he was broke, had to pay. broke up with him two weeks later.” Heather Largy, second-year marketing

had

to take the

(was supposed a semi-formal on “I

Valentine’s boyfriend.

Day

went

settled

solo.”

Jo Gage, second-year broadcasting

management

“We

good offer on and there’s a lot of room for discussion on the key issues, salary and workload,” said Tibbits. think there’s a

the table

went

see Weezer

cousin on

Valentine’s Day.

got

weeks before

Daniela Huber, broadcasting

as faculty

works more

Day

altogether.”

Andy

funded system “All that

the Ontario

the worst

still

Canada.

money

second-year mechanical engineering

we’ve hired

significantly in the last four years,”

we’ve made improvements System (SIS), where students can get marks online, technology upgrades, new labs, new hardware and new software. “So, there’s been a significant to the Student Information

we want

to offer

And

fair

basi-

wage

efit

where the classes are a

venience.

workload. They do less of other things because the workload formula is based on the number of

num-

I’ve

been

single for three

Jon

Wolf,

a CSI director and second-year public relations student

Smile Conestoga, you could be our next respondent!

with the least amount of inconimperative

“It’s

students are

all

and have the opportucomplete the year,” said

treated fairly nity

Jackson. “That’s

my biggest fear, if

to do. If a teacher

said

they do go on strike,

“My

has three differ-

workload

the

has

biggest worry

remained constant for around 20

doesn’t really

years.

of education with Ontario college students,” Jackson said, although

our faculty work hard, but the actual hours and the for-*

mula

actually the same, so

you

have it both ways. The workload formula hasn’t changed and they work within that formula, but somehow they’re working a lot harder. I mean, how? It can’t can’t

be.

“And

that’s not

interpretation,

that's scientific fact. If

company and

you work

he did agree

would be

hiring

full-time

faculty,

meant for. “Now, I wouldn’t say the Rae Review is a waste by any means. We’ve got $6.4 billion over the next four years. That’s (a large input) of cash to the college system. That gets us

raise.

are

but doesn’t

at par,

they say you

put us as the leader of the pack by

a week, and it’s always 35, and they ask you to work 38, you can always refuse,

any means. We’re still one of the lowest funded provinces in the

for a

work 35 hours

country.

“So

but you’ll get overtime.”

prepared to give

but the lower work-

money. it would

tional

“In fact,

Continued from Page 1 “I’m out there on a regular basis trying to raise money,” Tibbits said. “What we will do is dependent on

n’t

an increase in the number of sections of both carpentry

and plumb-

ing apprenticeship students.

list,

until

going

there’s

we did have room

defito

money from

Rae Review recommendations

would be disappointed

something

went

else.”

spacious Waterloo campus, lege

expand

allows the coltruck/coach

into

apprenticeship training

“Previously they would be on a waiting

would

said, “I

definitely gets to the right purpose. I

result in a sig-

hope

nitely

the

concern for

that’s definitely a

load would eat up any kind of addi-

can docuthe investments to improve

a waste

some of the funding from the Rae Review went toward things it was-

the learning resource centre, student

new year

is going to go which in<um improve the quality

quality at the college; investments in

all

we’ve been

the this

to teachers’ salaries,

accountability, that the

So,

could be a

long and lengthy battle.”

Management more money,

Guelph

as well as possibly expanding the

millwright and welding

facilities,”

not going to go and spend $7 mil-

or had to travel to another part of

lion if we only have three. We will spend three and keep raising the money. We’ll do renovations at a rate that we have the money.”

the province for the in-school por-

he said. “It makes for a wonderful opportunity to serve our local

tion of their apprenticeship train-

apprentices

money

the

renovations.

“The renovations are much simpler; the

bigger uncertainty

is rais-

money. You have to go around and ask people and it takes time,” he said. “It’s one of those things you have to keep working at it and I believe it is going to happen because I believe this a worthwhile ing

years.”

and CSI both sup-

will give students the greatest ben-

big-

ger but that impacts a teacher’s

CSA

me,” Jackson

Ontario.

more complicated than doing

hate Valentine’s Day.

said

port students and avoiding a strike

He said the union wants more money and a lower workload.

Tibbits said raising the

“I

pay additional salary or hire more people, he said. Tibbits said there may be cases

“I believe

has really been

spent. (In this college)

how much money we

Vernon,

Falconer resigned.

New campus more avoid Valentine’s

after

from the government

technology improvements.”

try to

week

services,

“I

he undertook Just last former president Justin

position

than the workload, the college has

little

Conestoga

that.

ment

first-year

have 300, show me where we’re building more of those.”

As soon

also

investing significantly,

Day.”

Jackson

College third-year business management student and president of Conestoga Students Inc. (CSI), a

years but what has to be under-

rate

Valentine’s

definitely don’t support a

best funding they’ve seen in

the faculty that’s similar to the going

broke up with my boyfriend and it’s two

“We

said,

funding we’re receiving

cally,

just

Matt Jackson, president of the College Student Alliance (CSA),

ent courses they get a benefit from

investment in the college.

“I

ing,” said Tibbits.

This past year the provincial government provided colleges with the

I’d

happen-

that’s

ber of preparations a teacher has

centre,

broadcasting

know where

like to

full-time faculty

some

Todd Donald,

are here.

students in the class and the

services, we’re building a student

first-year

who

“So, less work, more money.

more than 100 members.

pulled to the stage by

broken.”

changed? What it would there’d be less work for the

the workload formula

the college has hired

he said. “We’ve improved student

friends and ended up getting some bones

hasn’t

(teachers)

some “some

that

to get a collective

stood, Tibbits said,

“I

the problems in

(programs),” Tibbits said,

mary focus agreement.

when

(teacher) strike.”

only have 10, 11, 12 (students). Show me those large lecture halls

bar-

is still

add more

faculty

mean

Tibbits.

gaining with the union and the pri-

lege, said

“Why would we

Tibbits.

are

“One of John Tibbits, president of the col-

college system

with

overworked. “What I’m having trouble understanding is we’ve had the same workload formula in existence for 20-something years, so the formula hasn’t increased, there’s no suggestion it should increase.” On average, that formula says teachers teach on average 14 hours a week, but don’t forget teachers teach from September to May, said

Tibbits said in the last four years

pick him up, he wasn’t there, so

our energy into now.”

When went

nothing

“The discussion should continue and we’ll do everything in our power to come up with a settlement. That’s what we’re putting

to go) to

with

a vote to

by the mediator, the teachers would go on strike around March

“When was 1 6 my for Valentine’s Day.

there

he hopes a mediator gets

nificant addition to faculty,” said

Tibbits said he doesn’t feel teachers

the

he said.

ing,”

He for

also said the available space the

grams

and their employers and gives a clear pathway to

locally

college’s

carpentry pro-

high school students into good paying Jobs in the construction indus-

and will also allow us to expand our programming to meet local

be quadrupled and the shop capacity for plumbing will be

try

doubled.

needs.”

will

“We will

have a minimum of eight

sections of carpentry apprentices

from

six sections this year, as well

our section size has increased capacity,”

run a tions,

White

minimum

said.

“We

will also

of 10 plumbing sec-

up from eight sections

last

White said there is still a lot of work to be done in preparation for the fall semester.

“My

faculty and staff are already

up their sleeves preparing to open a Skills Centre qf Excellence on time to meet the needs of the rolling

project.”

year with larger section sizes.”

students,” he said.

Greg White, chair of trades and apprenticeship at Conestoga’s Doon campus, said the purchase of

White said these apprentices previously had to enroll at the Guelph campus. “By moving them to our new

that

University Heights will allow for

“We

the fundraising

are hopeful

campaign

successful to allow us to offer the

top-notch training in a top-notch facility.”

News

SPOKE, January

Checking up with student By BRENT GERHART

“I’m really excited for

“Once With another semester underway,

the student

we’ll be able to rellect

the people responsible for promot-

of the model on the

ing student

going

life

the college are

excited about the possibility of a healthy 2006.

To make sure Conestoga students enjoy their winter semester to the fullest, student life co-ordinator

Leanne Holland Brown said she has some words to live by. “First, you should check out your pulse,” she said, “and if you haven't checked out your pulse lately, it's beating strong at Conestoga." To go along with the building of

the

new

student centre, which

venture

joint

finalized,

and

facilitate

the stu-

information “booster shot.”

CONNEX and listening CJIQ. There are also plenty of events happening in the Waterloo Region this semester, including the Elmira Maple Syrup Festival, the checking

one-day maple on April 1. Third, Holland Brown suggested largest

immunize

able at Student Services to help stu-

committee

orientation

attempt to create

more student engagement with

dents

succeed.”

Finally,

she

“Sometimes students

need

Getting involved in activities outside school, in places such as the

demand, an expanded orientation model is in development.

rec centre, or even being involved in

Holland Brown said the new student life website is also under construction and debut in early spring.

student

by checking out

life

some, but it has the ability to influence your entire life. “You want to graduate from Conestoga with the right skills, but a really important part is also meaningful relationships, positive memories and moments you experience along the way when you look back in 20 years, those are the

the

leadership opportunities that will be

new

posted on the

may

site,

student

web-

life

goals for a healthy stu-

The student experience may be

get connected with those services.”

entation and. to help meet popular

.set

brief for

ori-

also help relieve stress.

things

you think

By PAIGE HILTON

tion rate is also

measured but

inter-

nal data is used.

During the week of Jan. 30

stu-

dents will take part in the survey that rates Ontario’s 21 colleges

applied arts and technology and the

and advanced learning. Last year Conestoga rated No. 1

three institutes of technology

John Tibbits, president of Conestoga College, said he is nervous about KPIs, but the college focuses on making needed improvements for students rather than the score.

many ways,

sports in

“It’s like

— you can never be

many

able

results are

Indicators

(KPIs) were established in 1999 by the Ministry of Training, Colleges

and Universities and are run across the

same week

sure

you’re going to be

April,

track

first,

but

students’

every year by an independent con-

expectations and satisfaction with

Kevin Mullan, vicepresident of finance and corporate

the

compared

performance.

results to see

sultant, said

KPIs rate four areas: graduate employment, graduate satisfaction, employer satisfaction and student college’s gradua-

The

college. to

results

can be

previous year’s

the

what needs improvement and what is working well. “Some colleges have taken the approach where the goal is to be No. 1 We’ve always felt any good .

dents, including the

GERHART

The winter semester

underway

and so are new health services hours.

Conestoga stuon duty between 8:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. and docbetter serve

dents, a nurse

tors are available

Monday

through

Friday for selective hours.

“We

In total, there are four doctors

health services.

One doctor does

dents.

We can never be sure what the

And

may

look like health it

the exact

“The

reality of the situation is over the years the service improved,” she said. “We started

that

ice has

first aid,

but the serv-

grown and grown.

’

said.

hopes to see significant growth in the apprenticeship diploma program, a smooth move into Conestoga’s newly acquired University Heights in Waterloo and better funding from the federal government.

yet but

Want a career

DONT

that’s

Une

JE SERAI

carriere

dans

PER les

canadiennes, e’est plus

Forces offer you:

qu'un simple empioi.

Nous vous •

offrons;

a wide range of careers in

professional fields

un vaste choix de carrieres

•

dans des domaines

and technical trades

professionnels et

engraved early on,” she said. “It’s hard at school because your

To find out more about

it’s

demands are high.” The Student Services executive director said she also has some tips

the things going

for students to stay healthy during

now

that

healthy

lifestyles

and have

that

“Eating well, dealing with your stress

and having a good social

tell

among l(5t

how

students.

of response

certainly

haven’t

are

crucial,”

all

she

•

une formation specialisee

•

une aide financiere

our part- and full-time

pour VOS etudes career opportunities, visit

the long winter days. this

Forces

than just a job? The Canadian

techniques

“I haven’t gotten a it

ill 1AKE PRIDE

subsidized education

too early to

being accepted

UNE

specialized training

the first time a doctor

it’s still

A CAREER

hours

its

your local Canadian

Forces recruiting centre.

Pour en savoir plus sur les possibilites

net-

said.

temps

plein,

partiel

de carrieres ou a temps

rendez-vous dans un

centre de recrutement des

Forces canadiennes pres

de chez vous.

possible.”

heard any negative comments,” she said. “I think

might take some

Doctors

be available:

will

getting used to.”

opposite.

with offering

going to be,” Tibbits

the future? Tibbits said he

“We’re inside more during winter and tend to pass on more of the viruses. The most consistent thing is to constantly wash your hands and lead as healthy a lifestyle as

it.

a better experience for stu-

work

Services executive director, services cut back,

try to

With more time dedicated to following up lab reports, McLaren said

although

we can

make

available every weekday.

two half days per week while the others do one full day. Jaqueline McLaren, Student said

all

can guarantee

their

•

between student times.” Along with the new hours, year

from around the area on hand

coming

hard to keep

stu-

•

“We’re providing a lot of primary care for students now. So, you have to do the followup to the lab, the contact with the specialist and the documentation. We have so many students

upcoming

dent centre and the student portal,

Health office reduces By BRENT

nationale

does her best

lab.

recent improvements for stu-

where students can view marks online.

The

Defense

Defence

a nursing

not to put a lot of pressure on them. That puts more pressure on faculty and people running services for students to keep improving.” Tibbits said the college has made

you can always try to be better. And by being better hopefully you’ll end up on top.” Mullan said the college uses the survey results, which will be avail-

The Key Performance

satisfaction.

National

is done in a neutral environment,” Mullan said. “We want students to give feedback, so we tend

88.9 per cent.

H^m ^1

dummy

life-like

survey

the top athlete

the

province

checking a

co-ordinator,

life

of.”

seventh year in a row, achieving an overall average of

the

(Photo by Brent Gerhart)

Leanne Holland Brown, student

Conestoga’s reign last?

Will

for

most

the

dent experience in 2006.

said.

just

offers

“It

making

of their student experience and the most of life.”

of people avail-

lots

she said.

in Character,”

students advice in

themselves

developing framework for a model of student life.

“There are

greatly

real life student expert. Will

festival,

against anxiety and stress.

She also suggested checking out a Keim, by visiting www.willkeim.com “I encourage students to take a look at his book called Education

students

the

ship can be a really important part of the student experience.”

Students can stay connected by

world's

said

enhanced by a mentor,” she said. “In terms of development, mentor-

life

symp

from

advice

dent experiences can

examination asked if students have received their community

Brown

Holland

for students.”

life

consider

life

connected students arc, the more likely their chance of success. “Experts afso tell us that your stu-

It’s

Students Inc. (CSI). there is also a student life leadership committee

meeting

Fourth,

— Page 3

2006

experts in the field.

the pieces

website.

The second checkup on dent

Conestoga

with

she said.

all

new

to co-ordinate

student

it.”

model

30,

McLaren

said she

would also

health services to try

new

something

in y^e near future.

“I think

health

we would like

promotion

and

do more discuss

Mon. 12:30

12:30

Wed.

a.m.

Thurs. 9 a.m.

3:30 p.m. 12:30 p.m.

Fri.

9 a.m.

DECOUVREZ VOS FORCES DANS LES FORCES CANADIENNES.

3 p.m.

Tues. 9 a.m. 1 1

STRONG. PROUD. TODAY’S CANADIAN FORCES.

12:20 a.m.

caKttPumFcacES

Canada

800 856-8488

www.forces.gc.ca

Page 4

Commentary

— SPOKE, January 30, 2006

Canadians get some backbone Voters finally take a stand against

scandal and corruption, voting in a Conservative minority government The Liberals had

the lead early

in the election

cam-

paign and, as usual, they were content. After 12 years in power, and with polls assuring them they would win, all was well. Or so they thought.

However,

their

campaign was mediocre

election day neared, panic set

now

in.

at best.

And, as were

Political experts

predicting a Conservative Party victory.

the ballots

were counted, it was clear that the Liberals were blindsided by a party that ran a smooth campaign headed by an eversmiling leader.

On Jan. 23, Canadians voted for change. But, cautious change. After 12 years of Liberal rule, Stephen Harper and the Conservatives won a minority government. The magic number for a majority government was 155 seats. The Conservatives settled into their

new

As a

minority govern-

ment, the Tories

have

be nice

mem-

motion.

and future governments

to follow.

In a country that is known for its passive nature, Canadians have finally taken a stand for what they believe in, but are keeping their new government under their thumb to avoid any future messes. It’s

position

at the helm with 124, the Liberals following fairly closely with 103, the Bloc at 51 and the NDP at 29. It’s clear that Canadians voted for lower taxes, less crime and a less-corrupt government, but they made sure not to give Harper all the reins. As a minority government, the Tories will have to be nice to their opposition party members if they want to set anything in motion. This will give the family-oriented NDP a chance to have a say, and prevent Harper from doing anything stupid like putting abortion back on the table. It’s clear that Canadians were sick of the corruption and scandal that came out of a Liberal government that had so much time to play. Twelve years is eight years too many for any party to rule a country. The Liberals got what they deserved. Once the new government is in place, Harper should be able to hold his position for about 18 months, before he and the rest of Canada have to go through another election. This should give the Liberals enough time to find another leader since Paul Martin announced in his speech on Jan. 23, that he is stepping down as the Liberal leader. The first things on Harper’s plate include selecting a cabinet, coming up with a budget and implementing tougher

rules for his

Paper

they want to set

anything

about time.

the things I’ve lost,

all

beware

thief

what a

miss

newspaper the most.

little

game

apartment building to see

if I

has

who

can get

stealing

Hancock

And, not

Opinion

of the local newspaper. The Record. I

have

tried everything to catch

knew

definitely

was dealing

poor news junkie who finds it plausible to take something that

with a professional paper snatcher.

does not belong to him or

sounded,

My fell

all-night

mission

stake-out

through pretty quick.

bitter coffee,

set

her.

drank

turned on a movie and

alarm for 6 a.m. - just

case sleep tried to sneak up on me. Well, although

adrenalin

was

pumping and my veins were jumping with coffee,

failed the mis-

The next morning my alarm

to scope out the situation.

was

clear.

went

opened

it,

called

payment from

woman ment

direct

my bank account. The

their circulation depart-

told

the dreaded

had bounced a

me there had been no prob-

lem with any payments and then she

account for the month’s

subscription of stolen papers.

left

open.

the

front

peeked out

was

alert.

door and

left

and

no one was there

right

to see

fuzzy, penguin-clad sneaking

was

suit. It

The Record with

thought that

had

Down oh,

ing.

thought someone was com-

Keep

ly don’t

pay

nothing

know their

bounded with

quick slipper-footed steps, but wait ...

together

girl,

keep

for.

lobby and there,

in the little

box room was

printed

thick

mail-

stack of

newspapers.

Oh,

crack of

In a world

free, this

that they will

where

person should

have

pay for

paper thieving by dealing with finally catch them.

have considered having only an

the same.

it’s

just not

love the smell of fresh

newsprint in the morning.

The paper baron’s day

rounded the comer and into the

freshly

at the

online subscription, but

together. I

be getting up

who

knowing

at night

to get the paper they obvious-

me when

clear.

the hall

need to stand

feel the

can go to sleep they’ll

to be sure

However,

dawn

asleep on the job and

charade

snow

crisp

it.

really to

face-to-face with the person

wafted through the crack in the

alarm. Stake-out paper

this

The smell of

window

was scrapped. month of

pile.

through the

leafed

The news junkie strikes again! A couple of weeks ago I spoke to management at my apartment and told them what had been going on. I was told there was nothing they could do about it and that I was to call The Record again.

fell

After one

housecoat and turned

camera channel on

to the lobby

thief

swiftly slid out of bed,

grabbed

missed

sion.

approached the

my room number on my surprise, I had again been beaten. No paper.

one with once

copy

this

I I

front-page sections to check for the

Melissa

into the front lobby in time to beat

the culprit

sight.

Carefully,

For about two months now turned into this fun

credited

Letters are

the devil we don't know!

It's

to their

opposition party

bers

will

come

soon enough. Another all-night stakeout

may

be the only

catch this person. frankly.

And

way

today, quite

I’m not feeling very

tired.

Spoke

welcome

Is published and produced weekly by the Journalism students

of Conestoga College

Editor: Jon Yaneff

Spoke welcomes

letters to the

should be signed and include the name and telephone number of the writer. Writers will be

editor. Letters

contacted for verification.

No unsigned

Editor:

Circulation Manager:

Janet Morris Mike Bors

Photo Editors: Brent Gerhart, Melissa Hancock, Jason Sonser

be published. Letters should be no longer than 500 words. Spoke reserves the right to edit any letter letters will

for publication.

The

Spoke Online

Advertising Manager: Steph Baulk Production Managers: Chantelle Timperley Paige Hilton Denise Muller

Address correspondence to: Spoke, 299 Doon Valley Room 4B14, Kitchener, Ont.,

Editor,

N2G 4M4

Dr.,

Faculty Supervisor and Adviser: Christina Jonas

Spoke’s address is 299 Doon Valley Dr., Room 4B14, Kitchener, Ontario, N2G 4M4. Phone: 748-5220, ext. 3691, 3692, 3693, 3694 Fax: 748-3534 E-mall: spoke@conestogac.on.ca Website: www.conestogac.on.ca/spoke The views and opinions expressed in this newspaper do Spoke shall not be liable for any damages arising out of errors

not necessarily reflect the views of Conestoga College.

advertising beyond the amount paid for the space. Letters acceptance or rejection and should be clearly written or typed; a MS Word file would be helpful. Letters must not contain any libellous statements.

to the editor are subject to

News

SPOKE, January

30,

2006

— Page 5

Don’t worry be happy By JANET MORRIS

combat the winter "You can receive

You might be feeling sluggish and without energy. You might find yourself lacking interest in your everyday activities and you might be feeling the effects of sea.sonal affective disor-

More remedies

blues. light treatment,

and acupuncture treatment.” she "It's really

.said.

and

important to

outside.

get

you

try

are

studying, you should try and study

where there

areas

natural

light."

der (SAD).

SAD

a type of winter depres-

“(Acupuncture) works with

sion that affects an estimated half

million

people

every

what you have, and attempts to remove blockages caused by

winter

between September and April; in particular during December, January and February, according to

Conestoga College, said there are things people can do to

body's natural desire to heal. "It works with what you have, and attempts to remove blockages caused by injury (physical or emotional) and insult to the body,

responses from the body. Free non-invasive

regularly.

affective disorder.

activity

lethargy, increa.sed appetite and daytime sleepiness. Shawna Bernard, a coun,sellor at

Acupuncture simulates an injury without actually injuring tissues in order to elicit wound-healing

homeostatic balance point.”

and low amounts of light can lead to symptoms of SAD such as increased sleep, carbohydrate cravings, in

Tennant,

massage therapist, said acupuncture works with the registered

include avoiding sugary and starchy foods and exercising

its

winter months.

decrease

and acupuncture. Robynne Madill

seed acupuncture, a non-needle acupuncture tool used to stimulate or .sedate a given meridian (energy pathway), will be available to students on Jan. 3 inside Door 4, at the Beat the Blues workshop. More information on SAD will also be available at the workshop hosted by Student Services aimed at bringing awareness to the subjects of depression and seasonal

the body, and return

tures keep people indoors during

beating the

it to its homeostatic balance point,” she said.

emotional) and insult to

change in seasons as daylight becomes scarce and cold tempera-

massage therapy

include

and return

injury (physical or

SAD Association in England. People are not immune to the

the

blues

Rohynne

Jill Tennant,

reyistereJ massaye ihejapist

Other adjustments daily

routine

to a person’s

improve

their

mood can

(Photo by Chantette Timpertey)

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Don’t forget your hard hat Construction on the new Student Centre continues through the winter season. The project spans the next year with a predicted opening in September 2006. Tours are available for any-

Consideration 101 I

find

very difficult to believe

Conestoga College can so poorly demonstrate that that students at

they attend a facility of higher

Those who witnessed this still made no move to offer their seat. From this I can only conclude that there are college students who

education.

are so insensitive or so personally

walk with a cane, yet three times in the past two weeks I have had to stand on the bus leaving the college because no one had the

frail that

they cannot think of oth-

ers before themselves.

Here

consideration to vacate a seat for

me.

decorations.

guess

find this so deplorable

because the action is so automatic to me. 1 have even vacated my seat so someone with a greater difficulty could sit down.

People who have difficulty walking or standing should be offered a seat on a bus by those

who are

not so afflicted.

The person shouldn’t have

one who

struction site

wants a seat, just ask them. To those students who do readily give up their seat for me, and there are many who do this, it

gac.on.ca to

you

greatly appreciated.

Although

haven’t yet fallen on

the bus, the times

have had to me with

stand have left considerable extra pain for days. For those who pretend they

someone needs their pray you never find your-

ikMjj

Anyone who would like to see the conasked to contact Judy Dusick at jdusick(@conestobook an appointment.

interested.

are not sure if the person

lesson in Mobility Challenges 101; canes, crutches and wheelchairs are not utilized as

this is called consideration.

Griffith UNIVERSITY Queensland, Australia Meet a Griffith representative and discover what study opportunities are available for you at Griffith University.

don’t see that seat,

self in

situation.

ask someone to give up their seat,

Terry Groves

University is one of Australia’s most progressive, innovative and dynamic universities. Established in 1971, Griffith has recently established an articulation partnership with Conestoga College. Strategically located in Australia’s fastest growing region — the flourishing Griffith

Brisbane-Gold Coast corridor, Griffith is a five-campus university with more than 3200 staff and 34,000 students, including

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT TO ALL STUDENTS

7000

international students.

Articulation arrangements For a list of Conestoga College Diploma’s that will lead into one or more of over 300 undergraduate and

Shaping the Exceptional Student Experience: Engagement towards Excellence

postgraduate programs at Griffith University, please www.griffith.edu.au/credit.

visit

Report on

Fall

2005 Focus Groups

Scholarships

year, the College has undergone a significant planning process. One major component of this process is reflected in the 2005 College Strategic Plan strategy concerning students, which focuses on creating an exceptional experience for our students at Conestoga. In order to make this happen, a Student Life Coordinator has been hired, a model for a new Learning Centre for fall 2006 has been created, a new administrative structure has been established and construction of a new Student Centre has begun.

Over the past

2005, the Office of Student Development within Student Affairs conducted a series of 24 student artd employee focus groups across the College. The intent of the focus groups was to assist the College in obtaining meaningful feedback from its front-line stakeholders in moving towards our strategic goal. The results, including recommendations, are contained in a comprehensive report titled Shaping the Exceptional Student Experience: Engagement towards Excellence. In

the

fall

Scholarships are available each year for students of Conestoga and other Ontario College articulation partner institutions. Applications must be sent to KOM by 1 October for study in February the following year, or by 1 March for study in July. Selection criteria will include academic merit, demonstrated leadership and personal character.

A Griffith representative will be available to discuss study opportunities. Please contact KOM for further information, details

feedback

virill

assist

Conestoga College

made by

both students and employees. The creating an exceptional experience for its students.

very appreciative of the excellent contributions

Hamilton, Ontario T;

invite

would

like to

will

John

Tibbits

President

extend

my sincere thanks to all

be many more opportunities

there

for

students who contributed their ideas and insights. involvement in shaping this strategic direction.

my hope

Box 60524

Mountain Plaza Postal Outlet

students to review this document. Printed copies of the report are now available at the Doon LRC, the Campus Administration Offices at Waterloo and Guelph, and at the office of Conestoga Students Inc. The full report is also available electronically on the CONNEX website, beginning January 23. Click on the Weekly News and Updates section at http7/vyww.conestoQac.on.ca/isD/stserv/connex/index.html I

application form.

KOM Consultants PO

The College

and an

that

L9C 7N7

905 318 8200

E: info(gkomconsultants.com

— SPOKE, January

Page 6

30,

News

2006

shot to cure spring break scares

By TARA RICKER

of the skin and eyes). An individual may

Imagine yourself lying on a beach this spring break with a

Sounds like Think again. One cubes in your drink

occurs cases.

Many

vast

the

majority

it,

cook

peel

it,

or leave

also important to

It is

it.”

remember

only to eat food that has been well-cooked and that is still hot when served, drink only purified water that has been boiled or dis-

A virus is acquired indi-

infected with chlorine or iodine,

rectly through water or food con-

or commercially bottled water in

Hepatitis

tamination

or B.

complete recovery

but

period,

paradise, right?

could contain traces of hepatitis

ill

require convalescence for a long

cool drink in hand.

of the ice

are boil

human

with

feces.

Carbonated

containers.

sealed

professionals

Inadequately treated water, or pol-

drinks without ice, including beer,

encourage individuals planning on

health-care

hepatitis

luted fresh or seawater, can cause

are usually safe.

to get a

infection. Shellfish, such as oysters

vaccination

and mussels, are frequent carriers. Milk, cold meats and other food contaminated during preparation can also be virus carriers. Hepatitis B spreads by contact with an infected person’s blood,

Also avoid uncooked foods, espeand salads. Fruit and vegetables that can be peeled are usually safe. Avoid food from street vendors and always remember to wash your hands before eat-

Canada

travelling outside

and

before leaving the country. “If

you

are planning

on taking a

trip

outside of Canada, especially

to a

developing country, you should

get a vaccine six to eight

before your

trip,” said Dr.

weeks George

Miller of Kitchener.

Most

including Miller,

doctors,

use a vaccine called Twinrix.

combined

hepatitis

It is

and B vac-

semen or other bodily fluid. Most travellers are at low obtaining a hepatitis

occurred in

who

countries

ple ages

in tourist

8 or older.

The vaccine should be given

in a

series of three doses, every three

months

after the

first

“The vaccination will last for at 20 years for hepatitis A and

about 15 years for hepatitis B.” Hepatitis A and B are both viral infections of the liver that vary in severity and duration of illness.

The

hepatitis

cause flu-like

and B viruses symptoms, abdomi-

nal pain and jaundice (yellowing

stay in rural areas or

accommodations where may be

inadequate.

“People the

who

don’t stay in ‘five-

accommodations are ones most likely to get sick or

star’

least

hepatitis

hygienic standards

the

dose, said

Miller.

infection.

have travellers to developing

However, cases of

cine that can only be used on peo-

risk of

tourist

ing or drinking.

“Don’t use tap water to brush teeth, use bottled water

your

spread through

(Photo by Tara Ricker)

instead,” said Miller.

said receiving a vaccination

Canada

Health

recommends

strongly

that your travel plans

before travelling has proven to be

include contacting a travel medicine clinic or physician six to eight

very effective.

weeks before departure. shown

“Studies have

100

that

per cent of those who receive a vaccine become immune to infec-

two doses,” said one dose, at least 94 of people become

appetite, low-grade fever or tired-

ness.

When

these problems hap-

you end up in hospital,” said Miller. “Having this information with you

tion after getting

pen, they usually start three to five

will inform physicians of

Miller. “After

days after vaccination and usually last for one or two days. A very

cinations

per

cent

immune

infected,” said Miller.

Since hepatitis

cially shellfish

for

example,

short

before

term,

for

travelling

contaminated food and water. Health Canada strongly recommends travellers to developing

high-risk countries.”

countries exercise precautions to

sore arm, which happens to one

minimize their risk of exposure. “The key principles to remember

out of two. Less

rare but serious side effect

generalized allergic

happens,

this

The most common

reaction.

a If

typically occurs

side effect

within a few minutes to a few

after receiving a vaccination is a

hours following the injection. “It is important to carry your vaccination card with your passport at all times during your travels in case

common

side

effects include headache, loss of

what vacyou have already been

given.”

Remember

check with your you are plan-

local physician if

ning on going away this spring break to see if you should receive

You don’t want

a vaccination.

have

to think twice before taking

a sip of that cool drink on the

beach.

Conestoga poker champs play on safe bets By BENJAMIN RICHMOND

an opportunity to prove their poker skills without paying an entry fee or risking any money. Instead of wagering money, players in the Student Poker ers

Students displayed their poker

Conestoga College without gambling away a single dollar. Conestoga Students Inc. (CSI) held its second poker night on Jan. 17 in the Sanctuary. Although the event was held by CSI, the poker night was run by Student Poker Championships. skills at

The company was started last summer by Red Hot Poker Tour. Both organizations give poker play-

Championships

compete

for

16 colleges and universities from

Windsor

Ottawa.

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS for the

AUBREY HAGAR DISTINGUISHED TEACHER AWARD

Would you

grand prize supplied by the company’s sponsor. Travel Cuts. Student Poker Championships is currently in the midst of an Ontario-wide student poker tournament. The company travels to

nominate a distinguished teacher? like to

Each school

the tournament

has a series of four poker nights, which act as qualifying matches

toward forming a varsity poker team. The top two winners from each qualifier will be added to their school’s varsity poker team. Each team will consist of eight students who will compete in the Student Poker Championship finale in Toronto on March 25. The school with the best poker players, determined by the average of the players’ finishing positions, will be named the champions. Conestoga added two members to its team on Jan 17. Geoff Graham and Brian Gray were the top two winners at the qualifier, joining the two winners from the first event to make up half of Conestoga’s varsity poker team. The first members of Conestoga’s poker team were Chris Ansari and Kevin White, who won their team

CORRECTIONS Distinguished

teachers

are

those

who demonstrate

following committee

PD -

Student Poker Championships, said there are usually about 80 players

each

schools

event,

some

although

interest

than

“The University of Ottawa

ext.

3381

reported in the Jan. 23 edition

of Spoke, incorrect information was provided. Hypnotist Tony

Lee

won’t

coming

Spoke errors.

the

having

think

good

idea.

money It’s

all

team.

who know what

starting

to pick up.”

From novice

to experienced play-

ers, there

his

We have a lot of good players they’re

doing,”

first

Kirschke

website.

For those students considering being added to the poker team,

poker night at the college after learning about it on the school’s

Although it was his first tournaPoker Student with Championships, Kirschke has been

ment

game

about six

for

Much

started playing

on the

there

said.

are

two chances left at last two qualifying

Conestoga. The

poker nights will once again be held in the Sanctuary on Jan. 31 and Feb. 21, starting at 7 p.m. Players will need to bring a piece of government ID to verify they are the legal gambling age of 19, and a valid

who

student

ID.

Only students

are currently enrolled at the

college can participate in the qualithe poker

Registration

for

these

two

televi-

fiers.

Poker

events will begin, at the door, two

Championships uses the rules of Texas Hold’em for their tournament. Texas Hold’em is the popular variety of poker played at the World Series of Poker and on the World Poker Tour. Another participant in the qualifi-

hours before the scheduled tourna-

Student

was Dave Mann, a third-year student in the computer programfor

“I

management program, entered

but is

apologizes

on the game.

first-year student in the operations

poker,

6:30 p.m.

CSI events

Mann said he agrees with not having the students wager money

were 39 students participating at the Jan. 17 poker night at Conestoga. Daniel Kirschke, a

for

ext.

In a story about

tour-

anyway. Plus, it’s a great way to improve your poker strategy without spending any money.” Both Kirschke and Mann said they believe Conestoga’s varsity team will do well in Toronto for the finals. “I think we’ll have a great

spot

Kitchener- Waterloo area

ext.

3926 3392 ext. 3496 ext. 3739 ext. 3253

first

nament.”

the

hot

sion,

then with

about the fun of the competition

Wednesday from 4:30 p.m.

team

now and

every

friends, but this is

Internet.”

varsity

players in the Jan. 23 edition of

“I play

involved

others.

soccer team practises Monday from 7 a.m. to 8 a.m. and

women’s needing more

In a story about the

February.

Nominations open on January 9, 2006 Nominations close on February 24, 2006

vice-president

Scott,

time competing on a tournament level.

from there

contact one of the

Edith Torbay

Ryan

across

was reported. The women’s

School of Engineering & Information Tech. - Liz Stacey School of Health & Community Services - Elizabeth McNair... ext.391 School of Trades & Apprenticeship - Jim Daniel ext. 3829 Chair:

qualifying poker nights Ontario since September.

Spoke, incorrect information

members:

2004 Award Winner - Marlene Zister 2003 Award Winner - Titia Taylor School of Liberal & Media Studies - Paul Scott School of Business - Larry Drew

poker been 28

months. Kirschke said he became interested in poker after seeing it on television. “I started watching championship tournaments on TV, and

the community.

For more information or nominations forms,

Nov.

the

night. In total, there has

playing the

exceptional

commitment to students and to their programs and whose teaching skills are above average. They also demonstrate leadership in their schools and/or the college and in related work with their professions or in

positions

mer/analyst program.

Mann

said

although he has been playing poker for about 10 years, this

was

his first

ment

time.

said he was going to make another attempt at the varsity poker

Mann

team at the next poker night. “I’ll be back here at the end of January to try again.”

For more information on the at Conestoga, or any details on the tournament, students visit can StudentPokerChampionships.com. qualifiers

SPOKE, January

30,

2006

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Page 8

News

— SPOKE, January 30, 2006

Conestoga hosts Trade and Technology Day By KRISTIN GRIFFERTY

She said she hopes her session will

help

make

students

the

informed decisions about the trades and technology field, including the education needed and pos-

Conestoga played host to local Grade 7 and 8 pupils on Jan. 17 for Trades and Technology Day. Both the Doon and Guelph campuses welcomed local pupils and promoted trades and apprentice programs and the careers they can go into. The college offered two half-day workshops in which the pupils were allowed some hands-on work,

Georgia Gingrich said she was learning a lot at Conestoga. “We've been drilling and playing around

as well as an opportunity to ques-

with the tools," Gingrich said.

Conestoga faculty and students. The workshop and lab sessions included programs such as carpentry, graphic design, plumb-

fun."

tion

ing,

automotive technology, indus-

trial

mechanics and computerized

precision machining.

Each session

began with a general infomiation meeting, then pupils were moved on to specific workshops.

Conestoga student Bronwyn Mitchell lead one of the work sessions in woodworking. She said she was given about one day's Third-year

notice regarding her position, but said she

new

teaching

had been look-

ing forward to the challenge.

Her pupils seemed

be enjoying

her session, where they were learning to use a drill and sand

wood.

“It's

Classmates Tyson Greer, Austin Jeffries

and

Shannon

Lorenz

agreed with Gingrich, saying that

was fun working with the tools in the shop, and even more fun to be away from school for half the day. The younger pupils seemed just as enthralled with the tools as they

were with the attention that they were getting from local media. smiled and pioudix Pupils

showed

off their

work

to local

television stations such as

CTV

and Rogers cable,

while

instructor

Mitchell kept her cool

‘Tve never taught (Grade) 7 and 8 before," said Mitchell. "Teaching is

sible careers.

a long-term goal for me.”

and continued on with the lesson, and later, a tour of the shop.

(Photos by Kristen

Grifferty)

Top right: Third-year Conestoga College student Browyn Mitchell leads a group of Grade 7 students on a tour of one of the shops.

Right; Local student Matt Fchlotzhauer learns

thing or two about handling a

aboard to work abroad

All

drill.

Bottom: Grade 7 and 8 students, left to right, Georgia Gingrich, Tyson Greer, Austin Jefferies and Shannon Lorenz put their new skills to work.

By CHANTELLETIMPERLEY

important to check and see any member of your family

It is

Every year thousands of Canadians travel the world and

holds citizenship in a country you

arrive at their destinations with

Ancestry status

not just an eye for sightseeing,

work in the country without a work permit or a visa for a certain

but a job waiting for them.

Working abroad opens

the door

experience and

international

the opportunity to live in a differ-

ent culture.

young

also enables

people fresh in their industries to acquire skills to compete in the global market. It is not difficult to achieve once you understand how you do it. According to the Canadian Consular Affairs website, the first document you need is a passport. It

government-issued identifiand the only form of ID

cation, that

globally

recognized as

proof of your citizenship.

A the

passport

paperwork

needed to enter

out

fill

your cho-

be interested

allow you to

There are many programs

avail-

able to people interested in work-

ing

abroad.

International

youth

programs are offered through the Canadian government for persons between ages 18 and 30. More than 30,000 short-term contract opportunities are available each in more than 20 countries. The programs include working holiday programs, young workers exchange programs and co-op

year

education programs. Participants

must be able a

visa,

to find a job,

transportation

expenses.

apply

and and cover daily

arrange

living

The

application

process requires a valid Canadian the

most

common

requirement for anyone wishing to leave the country.

They represent

passport, a round-trip air ticket

and an

initial

The

savings of money.

Student

permission by a foreign govern-

Program (SWAP)

ment

through

for

visiting.

may

period of time.

for

sen country.

Visas are

may

you

to enter that country

for work, tourism or study.

They

can be obtained through the eign embassy

Abroad

initiative

Travel Cuts and the Canadian Federation of Students

for-

for post-secondary students to gain

the

some travel and work experience. Most of the jobs are in the retail,

Canada of

country you wish to

Work

vi.sit.

Visas are not always required,

depending on the place and the

amount of time spent there. Most require one if you intend to stay longer than three months,

clerical or ho.spitality industries.

SWAP

arranges the travel, job

and accommodation,

who

ideal for students

how

go about

all

which

are not sure

their

own.

although rules for each country vary. You should make sure you

application deadlines are available

have

on the website

before leaving Canada.

Printable registration packs and

www.swap.ca

News

Minimum wage

Showing

By TARA RICKER

Conestoga’s accomplishments By BRENT

GERHART

choice and the right choice,”

prospective

we’ve got incredible students and incredible accomplishments, let’s put it out there in our recruitment

2005

lor

focus groups and students together, said Conestoga’s director of student development. “We’ve got incredible students and incredible accomplishments,” students, the

fall

brought employees

said Carol Gregory. “Let’s put

out there and celebrate Overall,

was

found from

a real desire to

all

make

groups a differ-

ence,” she said. “There’s real .sense

of things changing here.” Last

fall,

student

life

was

initially

presented

to the president, the college executive

and the board of governors. Jan. 20, all focus group par-

ticipants received a

it.”

Gregory said she was

impressed with the contributions.

“What

report

results.

summary of the was

Jan. 23 the report

put on the student

life

website for

students and employees to view.

made

Future presentations will be

and the Alumni Association of Conestoga board.

to college council

conducted

who are younger than 18, employed for no more than 28 hours a week, will rise from $6.95

Feb.

wage

invited to participate as well.

In total, 14

employee groups con-

tained 82 participants while nine

student groups had 74 participants

the students’ perspective.

The

Those affected by

minimum 1

general

increase are people ages

Consumers will notice jirice Jumps at service sector businesses, but

restaurants,

those

“It

Liquor

wages

servers’

will

increase

bringing the general

Job,

$8 per hour on

will

minimum wage

F'eb.

2007.

weren’t for 3()-cent increas-

would be no increases

there

whatsoever,” said Jenniler Gorel. Corel, 20,

working

a retail

store in Waterloo trying to

pay off

her student loans. clear the price of

rise

after

raised in first

some goods

minimum wage

When 2004

Ontario’s rate to $7.15

from

hike in nine years,

was hard not to notice the price of a cup of coffee breaking the $1 mark and fast-food combos ringing in at

about $7. benefit,”

Nigra, 21,

of student

students

for

hour.

Another

minimum-wage

that

does help.”

increase I'rom $6.50 to $6.75 an

increases

can be frustrating as a student

working

$7.25 an hour.

won’t have a dramatic effect on the

earners

little bit

Minimum wage

labour

cost of living as a whole.

were asked if they would actually benefit from the 3()-cent increase the answer was always yes. “The government is not likely to hike minimum wage by $2 or $3, es,

of the

what’s the point, but

affect

force,” she said.

said

(Photo by Tara Ricker)

Lindsay

The Ontario government

Nigra. is

raising the general

$7.75 an hour starting on Feb.

a third-year .sociolo-

minimum wage

development

“There

much happening at now to enhance

college right

the the

student experience,” said Gregory.

“Many committees

very hard this semester towards

change

services

and

positive

systems provided to students.” Although she is excited, Gregory said the changes are not going to

this is

an area we really wanted to develop at Conestoga. Students need to feel an identity with the college.”

happen over

By using a read, think and write format, the focus groups allowed everyone the opportunity to give

a solid foundation.”

feedback regarding the ques-

tions.

Gregory facilitated the groups with Leanne Holland Brown, student life co-ordinator. The two were able to notice patterns. “Employees and students talked

Conestoga’s Clothesline project

working

are

“The more connected you feel to something, the more likely you are

their

the

8 or older.

minimum

Caro! Gregory,

tion for her.

“We know

of $7.45

per cent

only

three

main questions asked involved why choose Conestoga students College, student connectedness and student success. Gregory said student connectedness was a really important ques-

to stay,” she said.

rate

per

prices

“Minipium wage increase equals

students.”

director

“Increased

such as coffee shops and fast-lbod

$6.65, the

of their own. to view the questions, which were initiated in a joint effort of an alumni association group and student life, from

minimum

per hour.

was

semester towards positive change in services and systems provided to

The teams were

the general

increase to ,S7.75

hour from the current

increased.

were

will

150 participants. The activities were held at Doon, Waterloo and Guelph campuses. However, Cambridge and Stratford

this

wonder

know

only

It is

working very hard

“.Sometimes

has increased.

“Many committees are

said Nigra.

every

24 focus groups, which included

more than

especially with the cost of tuition,”

the

economy that employ minimum-wage workers, who are

When minimum-wage

processes”

The

student

go up

parts of the

she said. “Stakeholders noted that

choice

business

— Page 9

2006

you notice a little extra change in your pocket next month, it’s probably because your paycheque If

To make Conestoga the most attractive

30,

set to

University of Waterloo.

about making Conestoga an attractive

SPOKE, January

“It’s

change

night.

new

direction

and

that is sustainable requires

Gregory said she hopes people notice the college

moving

in the

right direction.

“We want

increase

positive

student engagement at Conestoga

College,” she said. to

create

“We

also want

an environment that

Celebrating Healthy Tleiationships

consistently both student-friendly

and student responsive.”

February 2006

Conestoga College Since 1990, campuses around the world have organized “Clothesline Projects” to raise awareness and to celebrate healthy relationships.

Wednesday February

CLOTHESLINE

(t-shirts

Shirts will

Carol Gregory, director of student development, looks at the report on fall 2005 focus groups, entitled Shaping the Exceptional

Student Experience Engagement Towards Excellence.

F E

C T

10:30-2:30 first

and materials provided)

day be displayed on the clothesline

February 14-16^

(Photo by Brent Gerhart)

Make a t-shirt to hang on Conestoga’s clothesline in the main cafeteria

inside door #3

all

Women ’s Resource Group Questions? Call Maureen at Extension-

3893

News

— SPOKE, January 30, 2006

Page 10

down

Eat up and slim

Cafeteria begins to offer healthier food through Chartwells’ Balanced Choices ADAM HANNON

Low

muffins, snacks and salad

fat

dressings are also available.

trying

are

With

lifestyles.

Chartwells,

healthier

live

this

food

the

mind,

services

provider for Conestoga College, has

begun

offer

their

“We’re helping drive our business

Balanced

way

going,’’ said

choices in the college’s cafeterias,

service director for Chartwells at

such as certain sandwiches and

Conestoga College.

the

sal-

people’s eating habits are

Andy

Staveley, food

ings.

would or

leaner cuts of beef, and using

“Life is

about choices and

options.

“It’s

made using

live in

democracy, you have a

and you should have one with your food choice,

enabling the consumer to

have a healthier choice and clearly identify what the healthier choice

oil

and salads. This would mean buying

marked with a blue sticker. The sandwiches are made using whole grain bread and lower fat fillads, are

canola

entrees as well as their sandwiches

greater variety of food options.

Choices program at the school. As part of the program, healthy

Certain entrees are

porate healthier options into their hot

program from Chartwells, such

the

According to a recent survey done by Chartwells at the college, the two main requests students made were for healthier food and a

These days, more and more people

received supporting material about

well.”

Anr/y Staveley,

Chartwellsfood service director

be.’’

Staveley said that he and his assis-

non-hydrogenated

tant

manager, Pemell Richards, both

margarine to minimize their satu-

took an online nutrition course that

rated and trans fat content.

was about 25 hours

long.

They

also

as a binder containing food informa-

and standards. He said they are working

Staveley added that they will be

to incor-

about

and democracy, you have a choice, and you should have one with your food as well.” This year, Chartwells started servoptions.

ing

choices

live in a

stir fry in

the smaller Dooners

ordering more specialty foods for

cafeteria, instead of the busier

the cafeterias, such as the smoothies

cafeteria.

which arrived on

students better access to the healthy

said

Jan. 19.

wouldn’t be possible to

Richards said

are shorter.

healthy options offered at the col-

in the

lege.

Staveley.

fry,”

said

main gives

He added that they are trying to get healthier choices for existing prod-

they

ucts

sell.

This includes the

choice of whole-wheat dough from Pizza Pizza and

“It stir

this

food, because the lineups in Dooners

completely eliminate unhealthy options, because not all students care about healthy eating. He said 40 per cent of Chartwells’ revenue comes from Harveys, which is generally one of the less

“People also like

tion

white meat and less red meat.

“Life

program

main

all

natural fruit juice

cafeteria.

doesn’t have less calories,” said

Richards. “But it’s all

it’s

healthier because

natural.”

odYssey An experience you

spend a year

OWni

Quebec or New Brunswick!

Check out the Odyssey Program. We promise an exciting and engaging experience. As an English language assistant, you will

work with

Odyssey Program

For further information see:

Or contact the Provincial Coordinator

a teacher in a

classroom, full-time, to pro-

mote your language and ture.

Curricuium and Assessment

16th Floor

you are a Canadian

Mowat

permanent resihave at least one year

Citizen or

dent,

Branch

Policy

cul-

Block, Queen's Park,

08 M7Atl2

Toronto,

of post-secondary studies

and you want to work with students, then the Odyssey

Program

for you!

(Photos by Janet Moms) Council of Ministers

1^1

Canada

of Education,

Canadian

Get used to the winter commute

Ontario

Heritage

With recent unseasonal temperatures and unpredictable weather it’s no wonder someone ended up in the ditch one morning after freezing rain and snowfall hit the region. It’s better to take things slow and adjust your speed to the road conditions rather than risk your life.

nCCEHT A job Spend a year

that

SByS

all!

Quebec or New Brunswick! For further information see your:

Check out the Accent Program.

Career Placement Centre;

We promise an

engaging experience. As an

French Department;

English language assistant, you

Registrars’ Office;

will

classroom, part-time, to promote

your language and culture.

you are a Canadian Citizen or

permanent

least

studies and you want to

work with

exciting

and

Financial Aid Office;

a teacher in a

resident, have at

one year of postsecondary

Graduate Studies Oeparment English Oeparment.

Or contact the Provincial Coordinator

Accent Program

Curriculum and Assessment Policy

work

with students, then the Accent

Mowat

Program

Toronto,

for you!

Branch

leth Floor Block, Queen’s Park,

ON M7A

11.2

Telephone: 1-877-866-4242

wvvw.myaccentca Deadline: February IS, 2006 Council of Ministers

^ ^

of Education.

Canada

1^1

h“

Ontario

| I

News

SPOKE, January

30,

2006

— Page 11

different

way to cure boredom By VANESSA PARKER

humourous

facts collected

from

all

over world.

While riding on the Toronto subway reading the advertisements

The came

posted along the top edge,

have continued to research and compile unusual statistics for

started

read one ad that stood out from

the rest.

The advertisement read 14

Nations with more sheep than people.

This bizarre statement grabbed

attention

and

eagerly contin-

ued to read on: 10 notable events that

happened under the influence

of alcohol,

eight

great

sau.sage

and the list that truly intrigued me, five body parts

events,

named after Italians. The ad was for the book of

release of a

simply

lists

titled

Book of Lists. The advertisement worked me because soon after I saw was

The for it

bookstore counter paying $28.75 for my book of lists. The Book of Lists, The Original at the

Compendium Wallechinsky,

Curious

of by

Information,

Amy

David Wallace,

Ira

Basen and Jane Farrow, contains

first

edition

this

book

out in 1977 and the editors

almost three decades. This is the first year a Canadian edition has been released. The Canadian edition includes li.sts from the original authors but also includes

additional

material

(Photo by Melissa Hancock)

about Canada

and Canadians by This Morning CBC producer, Ira Ba.sen and author of Wanted Words, Jane Farrow. Some well-known Canadian contributors include Margaret Atwood, Michael Ondaatje and actor Mike Myers. So, if you are interested in finding out how penguins have marriage-like ceremonies or which animals have come back from extinction, this is definitely a

book

Poll Deputy returning

officer,

before the Jan. 23 election began. registration officer,

booth

Ross Blackshaw, sets up

Anne Blackshaw,

mayhem

his poll booth at Highpoint

said a few apartments

said

it’s

ensure voting

Apartment

Kitchener

the area set up poll booths and the

made

accessible and easy for

people.

for the

curious reader.

The Book of

Lists will definitely

you from your homework or studying and will easily keep distract

your attention for hours.

(Photo by Paige Hilton)

Putting the brakes on speed 2004 Guelph

have been trying to deter drivers from speeding by using this elecsponsored by Colley Insurance. Traffic Sgt. Pat Milligan said the sign records data, including the average speed of drivers and the amount of traffic in the area, but it doesn’t record licence plates. At this spot on Woodlawn Road drivers were either speeding past the sign or slamming on the brakes when it caught their eye. Since

late

police

tronic sign

is a Canadian contributor to the Book of Lists. year a Canadian edition of the book has been

Actor Mike Myers This

the

first

released.

COUNSELLOR’S CORNER;

MulticuUuralism

Have you recently moved from your home country to Canada? Is English your second language? Are you on an international student visa, of landed immigrant status, or did your family originate from a country other than Canada? Have you recently emigrated from a war-torn country? Are you dealing with issues such as culture shock, unfamiliarity with college or community resources, racism, or a lack of cultural familiarity? Will you be experiencing a Canadian winter for the first time? Our college community

is becoming enriched more and more with students from various backgrounds. This creates a wonderful opportunity for growth, learning, and diversity. However, it can also pose transition issues for those who are new to the

cultural

OUT? Coming OUT?

country and the college.

Are you

you need support dealing with these transitions, help is available. You can your teachers, classmates, friends, or counsellors in Student Services. The Multicultural Support Group offered through Student Services provides an opportunity to meet new people and talk about issues related to being in a new country. The Peer Host Service offers one-on-one matches with your peers for the purpose of support and friendship. To learn more about resources at the college and in the community, visit Student Services. If

Curious?

Need

a place to go out to? Conestoga Pride and friends (LGBTQ club) Meet the last Friday of every month for a

Fun night out with

New membei^ Check the For

you

feel

talk to

friends!

always welcome.

posters and

details.

r*vi

A Message from Student Services Visit

our website httoy/www.conestoaac.on.ca/isD/stserv/index.iSD

Page 12

—

SPOKE, January

Entertainment

2006

30,

Classic ’50s-style dining

Horoscope Week of January

2006

30.

By JASON SONSER

Mel’s breakfasts, which

think are

Libra

have two bad habits I can’t seem One is my tendency to put off my school assignments and the I

September 23

to shake.

October 22

second

Take a break this week, Aries, you know you need it. Go take a stroll, even if there's a snowstorm out. Just dress warmly and bring your Global Positioning System. Lucky day: 31

Don't forget to throw out your

garbage

today,

cafeteria

the

Libra, you're starting to pick

some

How

lazy habits.

would you

you were in your parents’ house? Lucky day: 2 act if

When

love of food.

pulled myself

dream

a very creepy

craving.

October 23

November

craving for breakfast

Located

with that one class that tends to

on the reading.

pile fall

easy to

It's

Remember

your waiter or this week, Scorpio, as it's only polite and it’s common courtesy. Do unto others as you'd have them do unto you. to tip

generously

Lucky day:

behind. Lucky day: 4

plaza closest to the University this particular restau-

As was

be expected for about on a Saturday, Mel’s Diner was crowded. My parents and I were lucky enough to see a free booth near the back. to

9:30 a.m.

As we made our way

floor,

21 iJi'lj May

;

-June 21

Sagittarius

November 22 December 21

past

Smile a little more, Gemini, it. Easy does it, you don't want to pull a muscle. Feels good, though; you should do it more often.

Try

remember

to floss.

Lucky day: 2

Maybe

relationship,

Sagittarius,

it's

only giving you grief and dis-

you from your Lucky day:

tracting ity,

school.

of people

real prior-

we managed

to get to

Capricorn December 22

January 19

able, as usual.

was comfortUeaning back on the sat in

red-and-white cushioned bench, putting my arms on the table, I took a look at the surroundings as we waited for someone to serve us. first

glanced

favourite

Dean. He was wearing a long coat, walking on a street. The line under his name read. Boulevard of Broken Dreams.

OSAP or not, be careful finances for the next

Lucky day:

with your

little

while.

time to get involved

It's

volunteer. There

much you

the kitchen, also

sit at

glanced

to help.

feels

Lucky day: 3

Aquarius January 20

When dismay,

at the time.

feast.

sausages and

father had

home were

the

fries

where people could

to enjoy their meals.

at the

waitresses talking,

his plate

warm.

started I’ve

watering in always enjoyed

had

visits.

The

yet crunchy near the

liking,

however,

smothered

toast

She ordered it was somewhat

tasted like. it

juicy and wasn’t hard to chew. Very

yummy,

indeed!

cup of coffee, which had been refilled a number of times by our waitress, was a smooth, very hot brew. Unlike some other restaurants I’ve been to, their morning coffee tasting like utter sewage, Mel’s Diner’s coffee was very good. Putting

desired

amount of cream and sugar, I downed it like it was water. When I got my bill, I was reminded of the reason why I liked Mel’s Diner so much. Cheap prices. For the

had,

amount of food and coffee I I only paid $12. $10.67 was

the actual price for the food and

caffeine and

I left a $1.33 tip. Mel’s Diner also has a variety of burgers and hotdogs, dinner plates,

pastas and sandwiches.

Among

their

line

of burgers,

the

was

Mel’s sandwiches include Rancho Chicken Wrap ($6.99), Reuben Sandwich ($5.99) and a Tuna Melt ($5.99). Sandwiches come with soup, salad or fries and coleslaw. Dinner plates include a plate

named

Stir

Fry City, Baby ($8.99),

which has sauteed vegetables stir fry

sauce with rice

in a

in a tortilla

bowl.

like neither cold.

The French

well done, yet

coleslaw.

with a light buttery flavour.

weren’t to

anticipation.

soft,

what

a bacon double-cheese burger, and the Unforgettable Easy Rider ($9.99) is a half-pound burger on French stick bread with bacon and cheese. Burgers come with soup, garden salad or fries and

The sausage was juicy and was delightful. The bacon and ham

When we were handed menus,

my mouth

was

The Waterloo Cowboy ($11.99)

delicious,

maple symp and

sprin-

kled with confectioner’s sugar.

mother had no complaints about her meal. Her eggs, toast and steak were the next best thing to

a 10 oz. steak with vegetables.

I’ve said. I’ve been a patron of Mel’s Diner for years. I enjoy their food, their prices and their friendly service.

February 18 Leo, Leo, Leo, you’re always a flirt.

This time

it'll

catch up to

you, as the person you

flirt

with

have a boyfriend or girlfriend approach from around the comer who won't be happy; run as fast as you can. Lucky day: 30

will

your birthday

one

hold your hair back while

not

same

for them. Party hard but

safe, take a taxi.

Remember,

top

things like

JOB FAIR ‘o6 Wednesday, February i 10:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. RIM Park, Waterloo

Pisces -

March 20

things.

MSN arc a arc

Lucky day:

February 19

constant distraction,

telephone and TV.

Buy some

the

week, you fall short at you know you gave it your

Reach

This will be a busy week, Virgo,

It's

you haven't done the

Virgo

keep

week,

praying to the porcelain god.

August 23 September 22

falls this

Aquarius, remember to get some-

for the stars this

Pisces, even if least all.

Better to reach your maxi-

mum

potential.

And

earplugs and get to work. Lucky

how proud your

day: 4

ily will be.

Just think

friends and fam-

Lucky day: 2

•

Network with over 150 employers

•

Free admission with Student/ Alumni ID

•

Free transportation to and from the Fair

www.partners4empl0yment.ca Brandon Walker

a second-year

journalism student holding fate in the

palm of

his

hand.

burger, the Elvis burger ($7.99)

However cold my food was, I was happy. My eggs were cooked

crust,

fries,

other

same comThe eggs,

and toast on

home

cold, the sausages the only

things being

toast

eye.

items on the plate.

relatively

the

plaint about his food.

and

James Dean Burger ($5.99) is Mel’s equivalent of a cheese

lukewarm.

ham were

warm, compared

father

tried a piece of steak, curious as

home

eggs, toast and

were

fries

number

our breakfasts arrived,

right into

since

to the

plus

my mother’s breakfast included

was this boy almost marching washroom, which was about 10 or so feet away from where we were sitting.

there

all;

ing

experienced in previous

can do to help out and feel like it

Having the biggest appetite in my I decided to have the Hungry Mel. My mother had the steak and eggs ($8.99) and my father had Mel’s Favourite. The food took about 20 or so minutes to arrive, not bad considerfamily,

to perfection, not burnt as

you're a part of

good

school, Capricorn, join a club or

two pieces of regular toast. Other items on the breakfast menu include steak and eggs, crepes and pancakes, omelettes,

and motorcycles and Breakfast

Mel’s Diner also has a bar, near

You've been a little too thrifty Cancer, and it'll catch up to you this week. Whether you're on

or sausage.

Various other posters lined the walls. Posters of Elvis Presley, cars Tiffany’s caught

lately,

The Hungry Mel is a monstrous plate with two eggs, two pieces of bacon, two pieces of ham, two sausages, home fries, two pieces of French toast and

dug

poster of James

ham

of patrons in the diner

and the choice of

fries, toast

es scurrying back and forth from

the booth unharmed.

troubling

that

Mel’s Favourite includes two eggs,

home

Instead of ordering

a 6 oz. steak and the large

the kitchen,

time you take a few

it's

back from

steps

tables

Mel or Early Egg Combo.

bacon,

which

mother substituted it with fried tomatoes. She ate it by the time I was ready to steal some off her plate.

Favourite to $7.99 for the Hungry

feasting on their food and waitress-

The booth we that's

across the

checkerboard

the

After asking the waitress for a

cup of coffee, I began browsing the breakfast menu. The prices ranged from as low as $2.99 for Mel’s

waffles, etc.

950s-style diner.

black-and-white

Gemini

instantly

140 University Ave. W.,

rant resembles a

waitress

the familiar decor.

in the

The end of the month is here, and time's flying by. Make sure you keep up-to-date

had a

shuffle in and recognize

of Waterloo,

Taurus,

from Mel’s Diner. Having been to this establishment at least a hundred times over grin as

Scorpio

the early

morning hours of Jan. 21,

the past several years,

Taurus

away from

hot, a fact to

grumbled.

a bargain for the prices.

News

SPOKE, January

30,

2006

— Page 13

Finding your true iove oniine By VANESSA PARKER

compatibility areas of

have

Internet users

all

been bom-

most important

in the

values, character,

life

sense of humour, spiritual

intellect,

barded with pop-ups tor online datI’m sure most users ing services.

dimensions.

on the x and close the window, but what is the secret to

item personality questionnaire that

online dating service’s recent rise

helps match up compatible people.

beliefs, passion

This

just click

popularity?

—

Online dating

creepy old perverted

con young

men

into dates

girls

now being .seen as a widely way to find a date.

—

joke are usually denied.

accept-

used by more and more Canadians. ing has beeij

dating

site.

Match.com, currently has more than 15 million people from around the globe using

its site.

"More than 60,000 new people register

on our

Kristin

Kelly,

every day," said

site

senior director of

“There

never a lack of options

The web

offers

a site for everyone,” she said.

One

site that is

crowd

Plentyoffish.com, a free dating site that

allows

users

seen

Messenger

ads

for

(Photo by Benjamin Richmond)

Lavalife.com.

some

Psychic

user costs.

This

of Fish,

Plenty

site,

go through

post a profile and operby the user searching through others’ profiles to find a match.

The

come when you are interested

find

someone you

you buy

mesyou use

instant

sage to a desired profile credits that

What is Job Fair?

said

she uses this site because she is tired of the bar scene. “With online dating you can get a

Lavalife divides

a pay-as-go

into

three

so you can find a person

Visit

The

are.

three

www.partners4employment.ca

interest to

Presentation: Dress and conduct yourself professionally Exude enthusiasm and self-confidence Be focussed and ask relevant questions

sub-

who

Getting to Job Fair:

FREE transportation is from the Doon campus