Digital Edition - January 14, 2008 by SPOKENewspaper

Practise your

Alternative entertainment

Gong

Falun

Writers’ strike

Conestoga students

has

viewers

looking for other things to do.

perform physical exercises aimed at

The Clemens Report

improving health and

Baseball’s hottest pitcher gets caught up

mental alertness.

Monday, January

2008

14,

ALLWOOD

and they told

most Conestoga students were hopping on buses and Jan. 7,

into cars to get to the college for (heir Hi

However,

Matthew

for

Wawzonek,

second-year mechanical engineering-design and analysis co-op student, this semester will start a little farther from home. Wawzonek started his second co-op term in Germany at Magna, a

world's

the

auto-

company.

parts

fourth-biggest

said he doesn't

know

exactly

what he will be doing besides some benchmarking, which is a used

process

and

organize

management

evaluate

various

some

aspects of performance, and

research and development.

jumped

“I just

Germany,

at the

summer

Last

chance

worked in of Magna,

Milton

called

Modatek Systems, with

a division

some other co-op students. He said he wanted to do his

sec-

co-op term abroad while be was in Milton, so he asked coworkers for recommendations and someone said he should try for a

onci

position in Austria. "I said

OK, who

should

to talk to the sec-

talk to

Amsterdam, and just

Wawzonek

possible.

said, adding,

“So

went

and talked to her and she said she’d set me up with what she could.” said he didn't hear anything

from her for a long time so he kept pushing and e-mailing and finally got

interview.

“I

didn’t

back for a long time for

view and this isn’t

thought, oh no,

hear inter-

guess

going to work out and

started searching for another

co-op

job."

finally received an e-mail ask-

ing him if he wanted to go to Germany. “1 was nervous, I was like WOW, this is real now. all 1 have to do is click confirm, and away I go for .

“Germany

way and

Stone software to help him learn but he didn’t have time to use it. “I’ve been so busy, with Christmas and other stuff going on,*' be said, adding, ‘‘I’m just going to throw myself into it and

German

see

how

goes.”

While Wawzonek is there he said he would like to do some out check snowboarding,

four hours that

way

you can go

this

(in all

to 10 dif-

said he

looking forward to

who

live in the

Netherlands and one of his friends

from home may fly over to visit him and have some fun. He said he would like to travel for his final co-op term and doesn’t

same type

think he will stick to the

of engineering.

want

really

“I

explore more than automotive and take the

if I just

first

would be

myself short from

all

thing that selling

the different

opportunities that are out there.” said he spent six to 10 hours

pushing to get this opportunity of a lifetime, and one of the main things he had to do was keep e-mailing. “I followed up and followed up, you know that’s how you have to

do it,” said Wawzonek. “You have to just keep following up on this stuff and eventually people are going to get tired of you bothering them and they are going to give you what you want."

Make a Making

a difference in your

munity can be easier and

consuming

you

than

com-

less time-

thought,

thanks to the Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Kitchener-Waterloo and

which allows college and

Area,

university

students

their time to truly

ence

volunteer

make

a differ-

in a child’s life.

"There are three different pro-

grams students can volunteer for," said Alaina Holman, the volunteer and community relations co-ordiof

nator

BBBS

Kitchener-

Waterloo.

"The programs we offer

are the

In-School mentoring program. GoGirls mentors and Big Bunch programs. "The majority of our in-school volunteers are college and universi-

The In-School mentoring gram allows volunteers to go

proto a

elementary school (ranging

from kindergarten to Grade 6) and provide mentoring to a child. “This program is excellent tor students because they do not have to

Enjoy a free skate Two-year-old Keenan Hack gets a helping hand from

Samantha rink

until

p.m.

to giving a lot of their

time” said Holman. Each volunteer goes to an elementary school once a week tor an hour for a minimum time period of

his

mom The

Children

need of academic help, sometimes they just need a friend to talk to in a supportive environment." she said.

Lynsey Meikle, a second-year student

relations

public

Conestoga with the

BBBS

volunteers

College,

In-School mentor-

are

referred

the

BBBS

program by the school. “The children are not always

group

25 years old." said

8 to

love volunteering in the In-

week

for a semester of the school

The Big Bunch group runs from

tinue volunteering throughout the

Thursday.

same

August

have

commit

three to four

hours every second week on one

weekday

Monday

evening

leaders must be at least 18

Mary

years old and have access to a car

Elementary School in have been with the I

because they are responsible for

volunteer

Waterloo.

May

and September to December. A full group consists of five leaders and lo kids. The Big Bunch leaders

The

school year.

Johnston

pro-

motes a healthy, active and balanced lifestyle for the young girls in the program. Volunteers commit to tw o hours a

January to April,

“I

life

Holman. The program supports and

School program." said Meikle. "The program is only one hour and I can give that time to someone who needs it." Meikle started volunteering with BBBS one summer in the Big Bunch program and wanted to con-

boy

little

time

three

for

years

transporting activities

the

kids

the

all

such as swimming, bowl-

ing and craft sessions.

needs a friend because he does not have a lot of positive encouragement coming from his

“He

just

home.

"We

have so much fun together

playing games and

happy

to see

makes me

him being happy." she

If you want further information on BBBS of Kitchener-Waterloo. check out bbbskw.org or contact alainah@bbbskw.org for volunteer

opportunities.

The Go-Girls mentor program two female volunteers to co-facilitate a group for girls ages requires

12-14. is

designed to

best relate to the pre-teens and

young teenagers which

why our

tarset

i->

volunteer age

BBBS

"The

important

organization and you have a

while

fun

said.

the in

child’s

year.

ing program.

"This program

four months.

while skating on the rink at Kitchener City Hall.

open seven days a week

commit

now.

ty students."

local

(Photo by Jackie AHwood)

Matthew Wawzonek, a second-year mechanical engineeringdesign and analysis co-op student, holds a book he purchased help him learn German, in preparation for his co-op.

difference

By KERRY REED

(Photo by Charlotte Prong Parkhitt)

Germany

many

you can go four hours

while on vacation

He bought some Rosetta

central to so

— No. 2

meeting new people, he is hoping to meet up with some friends he met

came

said he

countries as

40th Year

ferent countries.”

Because he only found out about weeks before he had to leave he didn't have much time to

Netherlands

directions) and

think

prepare.

co-op

many

the steroids scandal.

www.conestogac.on.ca/spoke

visit the

visit as

countries,

four months.”

the trip six

basically," he said.

journalism students

off with

retary for the big boss (in Milton),’’

classes of 2008.

for

Conestoga College, Kitchener, Ont.

Perseverance pays By JACKIE

newsroom

learning

volunteering."

lot

said

Meikle.

"There are so mans programs for to volunteer for and BBBS can accommodate anyone's

students

schedule which

makes

really

easy. "I

boost

dence

just

little

by being

brother's confihis friend."

Page 2

— SPOKE, January

Now ...with Random

14,

News

2008

Conestoga College

questions answered by

What was one

random students

thing you wish

you received for Christmas, but

didn't?

By JOSHUA KHAN With television writers picketing, for most of the popular shows have been delayed, but it doesn't

mean people

strike at

being physically active. 5, the Writer’s Guild

car,

can't take a

Since Nov.

Graeme

being

underpaid,

hobby

labour

the

no matter how long

second-year nursing

result,

be airing new episodes, which

good news

isn't

for viewers.

Caitlin Stephens, a first-year gen-

are there

only

no more new episodes of

“My

need a new one.”

friends

much

free.

and

at night

don’t get togeth-

anymore because

can't watch the

she said.

Kaitting,

third-year

marketing

“It’s

exercising at a

gym

enjoying a winter sport.”

who

said for those

telling

the

last protest the

you don’t

winter weather,

the cold

and hundreds of thousands of viewers affected, the strike has been But the good thing, as individuals might become

difficult

everyone.

for

active

instead of exercising

with a television remote.

Holltsworth said

there are other options available.

only reruns now.”

Stephens said she’s resorted to

“If you’re looking for something

doing homework and starting assignments since she has more spare time during the week.

your best to bet,” he said. “Simple hobbies such as even playing videogames will do, then a hobby

Ythe

185 King

trip

...

anywhere

hot.”

Nadine

Tiwari,

first-year

respiratory therapy

Have the summer

your

life

House

St.

S Waterloo

Adult Recreational Center

a prestigious coed sleepaway camp in the beautiful Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, 2 Vz hours from NYC. We’re seeking counselors who can teach any Team & Individual Sports, Tennis, Gymnastics, Horseback Riding, Mt. Biking, Theatre, Tech Theatre, Circus, of

Father's

CLASSIFIED “A

entertainment

strike

more more

But

not end

saw was back in 1988. The strike lasted 21 weeks and six days, costing the industry $500 million. With more than 2,000 writers on

vides a variety of activities such as

tobogganing.

may

even summer.

industry

protest might be a

ice skating or

said.

more people to

active.”

outdoors, the winter season pro-

new episodes of

Desperate Housewives or even CSI,”

Becky

some way,” he there should be

until late spring or

The

her favourite shows, but her nights

now

why

predicts that the strike

“With popular shows not airing new episodes because of the strike, people now have the chance to participate in activities,” he said, it’s

they aren't

tougher by the day, the industry

Graeme Hoiitswortrh,

“whether

become

won’t

people

in activities if

Since negotiations are becoming

bet.”

won’t

eral business student, said not

really

your best

stations

television

ABC, NBC and CBS

“Most involved

commercials become more

fitness club salesperson

such as

are

to do, then

viewers, not televi-

affects

sion stations.

“That’s

you’re looking for

something

that their writers

takes.

Elaine Kor,

strike

provoked “If

of some

Goodlife

Clubs in Kitchener, said students and other individuals now have the chance to be active.

been protesting against the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers.

negotiations,

already got

rid

However, he said media should pay more attention to how the

Fitness

union hopes to gain success through

diamonds.”

“A hair straightener,

salesperson

ship

keep you busy and get of that-spare time.”

member-

Holltsworth, a

of America has

are

would have loved

But if you are a student who would rather not open his textbook more than usual, there is a solution.

new episodes

With the claim “I

Tinseltown

Life after

deep thoughts

Meeting Times: Sunday 10am& Wed. 6:45 pm Check out: www.thefathershouse.ca

Magic, Arts & Crafts, Pioneering, Climbing Tower,

“Money

for

Water Sports, Music, Dance, or Science. Great salaries and perks. Plenty of free time. Internships available for many majors. Interviews on Feb 6.

textbooks

would have been great,

because they

Apply online at <http://www.islandlake.com/> www.islandlake.com. Call 800-869-6083

cost so much.”

between 9 and 5 eastern time on weekdays

Mike McKay,

for

information.info@islandlake.com.

first-year

information technology

support

“I

wanted Santa

for

wish

tuition,

didn't

but

come

true.”

second-year

general business

When was I

Christmas shopping fell in

love with one.”

Darei

Classified Ads!

Jen Cobham,

“A puppy.

FREE

pay

Hartley,

second-year practical nursing

Conestoga College students, staff and faculty can sell items $ 00 and under by placing an ad in Spoke. Your FREE AD must be for a single item, be 5 words or less and must include the price and your contact information. Private parties only; no businesses. Ads will run in two consecutive issues of Spoke as space permits. Limit of 2 ads per week. Place your free ad by e-mailing it to spoke@conestogac.on.ca 1

Please type Classified

subject

line.

Your e-mail must also include your name, address (including city)

Smile Conestoga, you could be our next respondent!

ber.

and phone num-

the

Feature

SPOKE, January

14,

2008

— Page 3

An exercise in betterment Falun Data By WEI-LON LEE

about truthfulness, compassion and forbearance

all tive

set

of beliefs whjch stresses Chinese values.”

traditional

compassion

Truthfulness,

and

forbearance;

Those are the three core, beliefs Data (also known as Falun Gong or just Data), and they are the principles by which Wei Hua of Falun

lives

everyday of her

‘In its

physical form, Falun Dafa

aimed at improving health and mental alertness,

much

like tai chi does," said

Wei Hua, founder of the Falun Gong club at Conestoga College. But more than that, Falun Dafa is a powerful practice aimed at improving body, mind and spirit. The spiritual movement began in China in the latter half of the 20th century. is

a practice for cultivating character

following

mental

those

three

beliefs

compassion and forbearance. "To cultivate character really means to train your mind and spirsaid Wei. “In that respect, to

it,"

means for become a

cultivate yourself really

you

to train yourself to

better person.”

The

Gong,

practice of Falun

deeply rooted in traditional Chinese religions such as Daoism and Buddhisin, all of which stress the idea of bettering tai

chi,

and

meditation

oneself through cultivation.

"What

sets

way of conducting

of a

public and in pri-

way of living your life and striving to make yourself more it's

enlightened than you are now,” said

Zhen. Furthermore, one of the reasons Gong has grown to over 100 million practitioners in over 80

that Falun

countries

is that it doesn’t impose an ideology, or a god, on its mem-

bers. he said.

"In fact, in

Buddhism,

being, the Buddha,

enlightened

the highest

not a god, but

being

who has we are

already accomplished what trying to do," said Zhen.

What Falun Gong

not, though,

a cult religion.

“The whole concept of taking an ideal to its extreme goes against the very core of our faith,” said Wei,

who

describes

the

alleged

chi

tai

much emphasis on

the

"The main thing about Falun

reported by the Chinese media in 2001 as “propaganda designed to discredit and undermine a peaceful

Wei

down

one thing; control. "The communist government is

boiled

very

this

world,"

“Not too long ago, Maoist (doc-

the

the department at University of Waterloo and a fellow practitioner of the fledgling movement.

chemistry

Zhen

said

practitioners of the

all

"Dafa," or great law, strive to be truthful,

both

others

and

“Religion

trine)

still

However, Falun Gong has no inclination nor does it

have a

political

what

the

agenda, contrary to

Chinese

we want

passionate to others and to practise

and imprisonment," she said. "We have no intention of subvert-

its

Chinese

meaning, endurance. “But Falun Gong means different things to different people," he said.

"For some,

it's

merely a

less

com-

plicated set of exercises than chi.

and for others,

it’s

tai

an alterna-

our

faith

to hold

together! Volunteer!

Volunteer Action Centre invites you to

VOLUNTEER FAIR 2008 At:

Conestoga Mall: Centre Court th Saturday January 26 from 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. ,

What •

expect at the Fair? Personalized service

•

Access

•

without fear of torture

ing the government."

you would like to know more visit Dafa, Falun www.falundafa.org or contact Wei Hua at whua-cc@conestogac.on.ca

to over

500

in finding

the best volunteer opportunity for you

positions available with

more than 1 60

charitable

organizations

the ability to prac-

tise

Announcement

Community begins with “C” and ends with “Y” but needs “U”

government

claims, said Wei. “All

B Community

to believe in."

political

Public Service

used to be the only religion

we were allowed

themselves, to be kind and com-

forbearance,

volunteer action centre

con-

attachments

said

(Photo by Wei-Lon Lee) Kitchener on Jan. 6. They

tentious issue in China," said Zhen.

for

their meditations outdoors.

Connecting Tafeni

selves by letting to

the cold weather at Victoria Park

said the issue surrounding

the persecutions of Falun Gong practitioners inside China can be

try to

Zhen Hua. a researcher

say they usually prefer practising

organization."

improve ourgo of our physical

that

Gong braved

mass

Falun Gong is going to threaten its own power base in China, and that’s why the government is cracking down on any known Falun Gong members,” she said.

Practitioners of Falun

suicides and mass self-cremations

that other

cultivation of character,” said Wei.

Gong

"It's

oneself both

afraid that the soaring popularity of

(traditional exercises)

Falun Dafa apart from

those other practices

do not put

that faith

But Zhen would not classify his being religious.

funda-

truthfulness,

no doubt

a part of Falun Dafa.

faith as

As Wei explained, Falun Gong by

much

vate,

life.

a collection of exercises

But there very

opportunity to

meet with representatives from over 30

charitable organizations

Explore the opportunity to gain new skills, meet new people, give back to your community or complete your community involvement hours.

about

Become a Volunteer and make a difference in your community on Saturday January 26th at Conestoga Mall between 9:30 a.m. & 6:00 p.m.

for further information.

The Volunteer Action Centre is proud to be Connecting Talent and Community

CONTACT:

end

Prachi Surti

Communications Coordinator Volunteer Action Centre

TEL: (519) 742-8610 FAX: (519) 742-0559 E-mail: orach i@volunteerkw.ca

151 Frederick Street, Suite Kitchener, On N2H 2M2

(Photo by Wei-Lon Lee)

Zhen Hua, a calms

his

local

member

mind and

spirit,

Gong, says deep meditation helping him focus. of Falun

P 519 742 8610 F 519 742 0559 E info@volunteerkw.ca www volunteerkw.ca |

300

United Way Charitable Registration

#1 2964-5032 -RR0001

Commentary

— SPOKE, January 14, 2008

Page 4

New

year brings

more change your pocket

The new year has arrived, bringing with it hopes of change. The federal government rang in the new year by giving residents

GST

one per cent

As of midnight

Jan.

1 ,

GST

the

down

cent in early

cent in 2007, and seven per

However,

the provincial tax

is still at

to five per cent

change

the

small,

will

from

six per

2006.

eight per cent, leaving Ontario

residents paying an overall 13 per cent tax

While

tax decrease.

still

all

items purchased.

save you cash on big ticket

items.

minimum wage workers this year. minimum wage will increase to $8.75 an

There's also good news for

As of March

31 the

up from the current $8 an hour. The government began increasing year

2004

minimum wage by 75

hour,

cents a

an attempt to balance the cost of living for low-income

families.

The six-year plan hour

minimum wage

will slowly help

reach $10.25 an

Ontario by 2010.

The reason minimum wage

Minimum wage remained

so far behind the times

before 2004 there hadn't been a

wage

$6.85 from Jan.

because

increase for almost nine years. 1,

1995 to Feb.

Nunavut

Redefining the resolution

2004.

minimum wage

Currently, the highest

$8.50 an hour and the lowest

$7 an hour

Canada

in Alberta,

New Brunswick Lose

and Newfoundland. This leaves Ontario just above the average of $7.75 an hour. The government isn't only trying to protect your wallet this year but

2008 the Ontario government is planning to crack down on repeat drunk drivers as part of Bill 203, the Safer Roads for a Safer In late

Ontario Act.

threat of ethnic division in an oth-

always dismissed the

I've

per cent are charged with drinking and driving which averages out to

formulating

two people per hour.

consecutive year.

level in the

drunk drivers with a blood alcohol

will target repeat

“warn range" which

Anyone caught with

0.05 per cent to 0.08 per cent.

blood alcohol level

be subjected to a three-day suspension for a

second offence

will land drivers

in the first

who blow

“warn range”

will

their

blood alcohol level

of 0.02 the vehicle will not If

anti-resolution regime, but

degree of responsibility often feign

should wield them by their virtue

that

a cynicism

abandonment,

creat-

ing unnecessary self-fixation dur-

when

most resolutions

problems

embroiled

that

should be dealt with

over the long-term.

The resolution that heralds the new year poses as the epilogue to year

prior

charted

with

consumption and Most resolutions

inveterate habits.

are guilt-driven as

opposed

to pos-

new year

when

for

others are

prime

the Pakistan Peoples Party, a

movement vying rights,

to abort

for democratic

bereaved and without a

leader.

with additional quandaries on the

resolutions in turn),

many

whereas, for

people,

such

options do not exist. Instead of

every Jan.

we can

making commitments that ultimately leave us

instead

perhaps

stationary,

empower

those

who

are disadvantaged this year.

appraise the aftermath

of the former year,

we should

evoke change not by the premise of fulfilling solely

but

rather

our

those

own

interests,

of ubiquitous,

moral concern. It

The new year has accosted us

them

of creating options for ourselves

When we minister

Benazir Bhutto’s assassination has left

cowering and by

in brute crisis.

Pakistan,

the attentiveness

particularly discouraged

void resolutions

itively inspired.

only from the holistic van-

tage that our personal delinquencies

seem

scant.

Spoke

welcome

Spoke welcomes

and prone

exact a “Band-Aid” solution upon

unchecked

start.

government.

Letters are

toward the

most resolutions begin

everyone cumulatively.

people continue to drink and drive they run the risk of forfeiting

their vehicle to the

(even

Furthermore,

we must compose

later.

limit

tri-

our feeble areas. They require a

itively elevating the

above the pre-set

too infinitesimal and a

egocentric by sheer comparison.

deeds and used as vindication for

could be better utilized toward pos-

their licence.

all

fle

false sense of

contempt, mere days or weeks

Drivers would have to blow into the device before trying to start

and

are tokens of recurrent mis-

end up deferred, typically with

basically a breathalyzer attached to their car.

their vehicle

They

Back on Track

This means they can drive but only after installing the $1,500 device

which

Resolutions of dietary changes

seem

ing a time

have to take the remedial measures course and have a six-month ignition interlock condition

Opinion

not what pro-

moreover

30-day suspension and they will

be compro-

ultimately

will

tion

mised.

with staunch compliance only to

Their licence will not be reinstated until they complete the course.

them

fact

remedial measures course which costs approximately $500.

third offence will net

Lanka, where civilian protec-

Sri

Featherstone

close to the legal limit

a seven-day suspension and they will have to take the

one for yet another

a in

Holly

and have thus refrained from

self-gratification

pels

offence.

and a hapless excuse to expiate for our shortcomings of the bygone year. 1 deftly regard them with ill sincerity

The new laws

resolution

Year's

Kenya and

resurgence of internal atrocities

erwise benevolent

infa-

stark futility

from the Ministry of Transportation show that approximately 16.000 people each year with a blood alcohol level above 0.08 Statistics

the

including

spectrum,

global

debt.

off

stress.

mous New

your safety as well.

Pay

weight.

Reduce

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

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

published and produced weekly by the journalism students of Conestoga College

Editor: Charlotte Prong Parkhill Advertising Manager: Marcia Love, Aaron O’Connell Spoke Online Editor: Wei-lon Lee Production Manager: Kerry Reed, Kayla Grant Circulation Manager: Jennifer Marko Photo Editors: John Linley, Jackie Allwood, Josh Khan, Franca Maio, Elizabeth Bate, Hien Dinh Faculty Supervisor and Adviser: Christina Jonas

Letters should

for publication.

The

Address correspondence to: Spoke, 299 Doon Valley Room 1C29, Kitchener, Ont.,

Editor,

N2G 4M4

Spoke’s address is 299 Doon Valley Dr., Room 1C29, Kitchener, Ontario, N2G 4M4. Phone: 519-748-5220, ext. 3691; 3692, 3693, 3694 Fax: 519-748-3534 E-mail: spoke@conestogac.on.ca Website: www.conestogac.on.ca/spoke

Dr.,

The views and opinions expressed in this newspaper do not necessarily reflect the views of Conestoga College. Spoke shall not be liable for any damages arising out of errors in advertising beyond the amount paid for the space. Letters to the editor are subject to acceptance or rejection and should be clearly written or typed; a MS Word file would be helpful. Letters must not contain any libellous statements.

News

SPOKE, January

2008

14,

— Page 5

Ready, set, go! Students get ready

new semester

Conestoga

for

Students flocked to the atrium the first day everyone back after the December break.

(Photo by Jenn SprachJ

Students stood in line more than an hour.

the

Do we

LRC

week

last

really

change, add or drop

Sarah Jaynes

at the

has

streets,

been chosen one of 25 Wal-Mart stores in Canada to be open around the clock.

shoppers are excited about

change and

busy

lifestyles

feel that with their

the convenience to

Opinion understand the need for a store like Wal-Mart to be open to the public constantly. There is nothing that residents need overnight that cannot be

shop at any time will be perfect. In December, 190 out of 292 Wal-Mart stores across Canada were open 24 hours. The positive feedback from

obtained

Kitchener shoppers reassured Wal-

their

Mart

that

being open 24 hours

all

the

time was a positive change for the

stores that are already

open 24 hours.

As said in The Record, this is going to force competitors to extend hours and eventually malls will

was

hours scares me.

that other

com-

to "consider a sim-

As someone working

retail

Wal-Mart will force other places to be open 24 hours in the near future. With seven Sobeys stores being open in KitchenerWaterloo 24 hours. Shoppers Drug 24-hour having a Mart pharmacy/pharmacist and convenience stores being open late. don't that

Unit popularized val-

day. allowing staff to their families,

the

ot the

go home

and forcing customers

a Scottish person's buttocks, but oth-

Every year the Oxford concise adds new words and phrases to their book. While Paris,

ers are

dictionary

sadly, did not

Powers

did.

Take agroterrorism, meaning

meaning sexy

Language is constantly evolving, take a walk down memory lane. The 1950s had beach bum surfer slang such as “Dude, that's aweThe 1960s had "groovy some.” baby” and “peace and love” while

the second edition of the Oxford

released

Dec.

2007.

new words

the

are

just

have, and

Jennifer

Marko

American author

cleaning, re-vamping displays and re-pricing items.

tion run wild.

shelves,

carpet

bad enough that stores are open on Sundays. Surely we don’t need to shop day and night.

When

It's

was

a kid

loved to read,

which made rne realize that one day want to be a published author. But 1

to the

the

dictionary

bringing

number of main

the

total

entries

than 260.000 words.

New that's

words and phrases, now

hawt.

reality we

plan

on reading next. While reading I am able to escape from reality, especially if am hav ing a bad day. and experience someone else's world. It allows me to let my imagination run free, which is exactly what I need since 1 want to be a I

all

Oxford English in 2007 more than 2.500 words where added to According

about the books and w hat

about time

because I forgot how much I love it. received three This Christmas books -Twilight. New Moon and Eclipse,

nessed the malfunction.

escape

Have you read any good books lately?

Take the happened January 2005. If someone mentioned a wardrobe malfunction to you in 2000 chances are the meaning would be lost on you. Fast forward to 2008. and not only do you understand the meaning but you also probably witthat

Dictionary website,

age a country's agriculture.

Reading helps

I had been hearing about them from a friend of mine for months and thought would give them a shot - and I am glad did. I was sucked in and was able to let my imagina-

Store staff also need time to get

some of their jobs done without cus : tomers milling around. These restocking

tions.

an act by terrorists to disrupt or dam-

psychedelic way, was included

serious and help people

make the cut, Austin The new word, sha-

gadelic, an adjective

dictionary,

find greater understanding in situa-

Stephanie Meyer.

the same.

include

bahookie, meaning

humourous

father Frank Zappa.

open 24

end

Opinion like

as,

lar after a certain incident.

one

ley girl slang with the help of her

can barely stand

girl

Sometimes you can predict a new word or phrase will become popu-

Kayla Grant

the

extended mall hours that are enforced around Christmastime.

ilar strategy.”

the

Stores need to close

retailers.

slang

Moon

can personally say that think-

ing about the mall being

have

slang

“groovy

’60’s

Some

As someone who works

John Winters, president of* the retail consulting firm John Winters, said in a Jan. 4 Record article that the experiment is paying off for Winters believes

1970s had airhead valley to call their own such "Eww! Gag me with a spoon." the

‘that’s

baby.”

be open 24 hours as well. mall

believe

back

in a

city.

petitors will

Paris

super spy Austin Powers brought

Sunrise Centre, located at Fischer-

the

With

slang.

hawf and Mike Myers’ popular

Hallman and Ottawa

are wonderful

What do Paris Hilton, Austin Powers and Moon Unit Zappa have in common? They have all coined

Kitchener

days a week. The Wal-Mart

Some

hours a day, seven

Wal-Mart

now open 24

waited

a phrase or popularized a colloqui-

shopping 12 hours a day wasn't for you, then you will love

enough

the fact that

some

(Photo by Sarah Jaynes) classes where CSI had posted a sign to welcome

(Photo by Marcia Love) Katherine Phibbs and Amy Marshall, both first-year nursing students, studied for their final exams in the Student Centre last month. Students can now rest easy for a few months, as the anxiety of exams is over, or at least until April 21 the start of this semester’s exam week.

New words

need

24 hours of low prices? If

their courses;

Opinion as time

went on and

into high school.

progressed

stopped reading

and began to spend a lot of my time online and with my friends. However, in the last two years. I have begun reading a lot more, as have mv friends. We like to talk

writer.

Reading that

a childhood pastime

should be remembered, not as

as .an enjoyable can help us on our worst days, and make our best days even brighter.

labourous.

endeavour

but

that

Feature

night by Noir day, by student College are,

Kevin Truong is a busy guy. The second-year graphic design student sets at

band though. and he doesn

isn t

try to bring (to

portive of his decision to perform.

it) is

“I

because

this

was

his

most

Though

graphic design student

presti-

“out-of the closet" since he was 15 years old. but has only been per-

forming as a female

just decided to slap

contract) and ensures that he will

pair of heels

have no shortage of performance opportunities. Since November he

here

perform

cities

illusionist for

about three years. "I was just watching shows and it looked really cool,” he says. "So, I

Truong's new title came with a cash prize (the amount cannot be disclosed under the terms of his

been invited

won't be doing

Truong, 21. grew up in Waterloo Region and attended Bluevale and KCI high schools. He has been

far.

numerous other

many

there are

lucrative

lull

time after he

graduates.

"The judges are elite drag queens from other cities." Truong says. Canada Gay Miss "From Continental to Miss Gay Universe.”

has

opportunities for female illusionist performers, Truong says that he

Kevin Truong,

and dad

very supportive."

I’m proud.”

His alter-ego, Noir. won the title of Miss Club Renaissance 2007 on Nov. 29. The win is not Truong’s but

my mom

don't think

“I

last year,

all

laughs, but “They've always been

good one.

gious win so

don't subject myself to them

quite grasp the concept of drag,

stand-up comedy; he is a female illusionist (aka drag queen), and a

he was also Miss Tri-Pride

much, but they do hurt. Truong’s family has been sup-

first title,

in the

that

choreography and acrobatics.

Truong spends Thursday nights in a

“What

says.

don’t want to belittle it in any way, but it is basically lip-syncing,” he

performer. a local club.

thought)

choreography.

“Talent in the drag community,

a Kitchener sushi restaurant and, what little time is left, he is a

set

favourite talent

good grades, works part-time

entertaining

gay community, (it's I’m a drag queen I'm a drug addict or I don't have a home,” he says. “It’s a lot of stereotypes and

“Even

up as a beauty pageant with swimsuit, question and answer and talent competitions. Truong’s

Bv ELIZABETH BATE

good

go.'

was like ‘oh, Mind you, 1 was not very and

Truong has grown com-

new

could spend

all

shoes.

day

in a pair

heels,” he says. His favourites are

Truong says as a female

(for

me)

fun that

it's

make

good at it, but basically something

money and it’s

are

like to do.”

The major reason he has decided to keep it as a hobby is because the careers of female illusionists are often short-lived.

“The retirement

for drag

very young,” he says.

crowds

very,

“When you

start to

dwin-

dle.”

Truong’s favourite part about performing is the freedom of self expression.

do this because I'm proud. I'm Nojr I’m still Kevin,” he

“I

When

black, strappy sandals.

probably be for AIDS, although nothing has been confirmed yet. The contest, as many drag contests

"There

get older the

obvious by his numerous

fortable in his

Hamilton and Toronto as well as at Club Renaissance in Kitchener at least two Thursdays a month. He will also participate in two charity events, one of which he says will

at all.”

titles that

including

on a wig and a

what s’ays.

are a lot of drag queens that lot

want

career to be," he

“Graphic design

fun performing

illusionist, but there is

a stigma surrounding the occupation.

still

says.

“Noir

another

way

show

with who I am and people say I don’t care what other and other people think."

that

am happy

Kevin Truong poses for a promotional photo the atrium of the Student Life Centre

drag, as Noir,

(Photo by Jackie Attwood)

Timmy’s gets supersized

Doe, a deer, a female deer a car accident involving a deer. The Ministry of Transportation says it is currently peak season for these animals to be near or on roads outside urban areas from 5 a.m.-7 a.m. and 5 p.m.- 1 1 p.m., so drive with caution.

Just before Christmas a 23-year-old Elora resident died

Tim Hortons

the

Doon campus went from a

with large lineups to a large,

However, lineups are

still

full

hole

the wall

serve area with more room.

as long as ever.

ON-CAMPUS CHIROPRACTOR Covered bv CSI Health Plan

HEALTH SERVICES 748-5220

Ext.

3679

(Photo by Holly Featherstone)

SPOKE, January

14,

2008

â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Page 7

STUDENTS INC

'Mr' Jr/

' .

mm V

."*

ronto Baptorsius: LTfl. Clippers

Page 8

Entertainment

— SPOKE, January 14, 2008

Playing by the Book, By CHARLOTTE PRONG PARKHILL

Testament creates

and

By A.J. Jacobs Simon & Schuster $28.99

700 of

over

Of* M.pt'i

follows

“I’m Jewish Olive Garden rant.

Which

in the

same way

an Italian restau-

to say: not very.”

who describes

A.J. Jacobs,

the

as an agnostic, decides to

himself

obey

all

the mles, moral teachings and sug-

gestions

the Bible for one year.

{

tumble

book about

to write a

Ten

the

follows

every

obscure

and gov-

arcane rule

erning clothing

rifice

Jacobs, an editor

Esquire mag-

What

of extreme living. In his

book.

last

reading

experience

the

his

entire

pork

products.

modern-day

life

start this

visits

second massive proj-

he reads both the Old and

New

Samaritans in

in Israel

and

Tennessee.

sacrifices

chicken.

stones an adulterer.

made from

cards? often

with that

pork.

begins to follow with a

own

blind faith that leads to his

eats a crick-

personal epiphanies.

And

suggests they get their chil-

"You guys seem says.

“But

nice,”

Jacobs

don’t really want

now. So

friends right

think

new I’ll

Sometimes people

New

don't

really

appreciate honesty.

gimmicky nature of books or the hilarious maga-

Don't his

let

thinking this

Throughout

encourages

you into a lightweight romp.

writing

zine-style

novel

the

fool

individual

the book, Jacobs tack-

themes of the modern Judeo-Christian world. He also examines his own attitude toward spirituality and finds he is more profoundly changed than he preles the larger

At first, obeying all of these rules seems ridiculous and pointless. But

why and

who

dren together for a play date.

play-

gradually Jacobs stops questioning

a foot-long beard.

snake handlers

that

gelatin

Manhattan clothed head-to-toe

dovetails nicely with his

Tbr Kura- ft-A IS

white clothes with tassels hanging

them and

you

They're coated

goes

Did

know ing

A JJacobs

long-suffering wife

his

take a pass.”

includes

follows

He and

Julie run into an old college friend

and any-

from

Encyclopedia Britannica over the

obsessive compulsive nature.

avoids

fibres,

about daily

off

has

made

course of a year. That’s right, the whole thing.

where an

sit-

thing

year

which

riotous results.

ting

pigs

The Know-It-All, he described

lems for Jacobs, sometimes with

avoid

food,

live

ing stool so he

sat.

animal sacand every

we can

can

woman"

life.

azine, has experience with this kind

carries

“unclean

Jacobs also

but

other aspect

it.

ect,

Possible

Commandments,

ture,

rule.

Why? Well,

Which

He Bible

a* Literally *r

to think

all like

around a fold-

plies.

shaving, agricul-

Literally.

Every

course,

ones

by - being kind to our neighbours, honouring our elders, conquering envy and greed and lust, being honest - that pose the greatest prob-

Biblically

them.

fruit-

and multi-

ful,

Year ^/Living

sheet of the rules

The Year of Living Biblically

et.

the

cheat

literally

if is the. grander

codes - the

thought

would

dicted he

By MARCIA LOVE

be.

And after reading -This may be changed too.

How

book, you

hard would you be willing

to fight for

something you believe

in?.

Love

That’s the question Luanne Rice

helped with her grief

letters

asks

her latest novel. The Edge

of Winter.

The novel

BY FRANCA MAIO

living without him.

Holly has a great support group, at times she pulls away from them because she feels they do not understand. She watches the rest ot her friends get married or have children and it leaves her feeling empty.

Imagine having your loved one with you, helping you grieve his death. In Ceceila Ahern’s new book, called

although

love you, the main character Holly loses her husband to a brain tumour. A month P.S.

after she receives a

package of

let-

takes place in a shore-

town in Rhode Island, USA, where the Second World War has left a famous landmark - a sunken line

German U-boat. As the locals

lose sight of the

significance of the sunken submarine, plans are made to raise it and turn

Holly's character helps educate

into a tourist attraction.

However, there are some people

someone who may not understand

who

U-boat's crew close to their hearts

pain after the death of her husband,

what it feels like to lose a soulmate, showing them how much pain a person goes through, the struggle and finally the acceptance of losing

who

she considered a best friend.

a loved one.

You

are

ters.

Ahern begins

by pulling readers into Holly’s grief and leading them through the character’s the story

there

when

the

couple

The book is a rollercoaster of You cry with Holly after

jokes and Gerry, Holly’s deceased

husband, says he needs to leave her a

list

so she will

off the

bedroom

remember light

to turn

and complete

(Photo by Franca Mato) In

the book PS.

monthly notes

other small tasks she usually for-

Love You, the main male character leaves

for his wife after his death.

her get over her fears of singing in

gets.

A month

Gerry’s

She takes the reader through

they

town.

explore

Holly’s grief, but she also intro-

note ends with P.S.

Gerry. She shows you the different

month thereafter Holly is given a message from Gerry, which help

Ahern's characters are humorous and can be easily related to.

sides of loss while guiding her lead

Cinema

character through the daily task of

local theatres.

love you.

their

and

friends

whom

loved

the

nightlife

Dublin, Ireland and know in the end that the character you have been rooting for will be OK.

duces you

all

Halloran and her teenage daughter Mickey are among this small group of people, committed to preserving the town’s landmark and determined

with her best friends, and finally telling her to live her life. Each

Neve

front of people and taking a trip

Holly’s family,

disturbed.

reading another note from Gerry, laugh with her and her friends as

death.

after

and do not want Nature-loving

emotions.

mother informs her that there is a package waiting from Gerry that is titled.The List. Each Holly’s

hold the resting place of the

P.S.

love

turned into a

you has also been

new motion

picture.

currently playing at the Galaxy in

Cambridge and other

make local how important

residents see just the U-boat

to the

As their battle to save the landmark continues, the Hallorans meet war veterans and other likeminded souls who are brought together by their

common

The book encourages thought and shows what

cause.

individual the conse-

quences can be of simply following the crowd.

Throughout delves

the

Rice mother-

novel,

complex

into

daughter and father-son relationships.

The

story

told through a series

of main characters and the tragic events in their lives that have made

them who they a

are.

Though The Edge of Winter has slow, somewhat dull start to it,

the novel soon takes off and to deliver

vincing

many

different

perspectives

able

and con-

on subjects

such as divorce, death and alcoholism.

The novel brings many unex-

Imagine

plored topics to light, such as the respect and forgiveness of ene-

the Career Possibilities.

mies, with the ability to inspire

ISA 4G1 Phone: 905.P78.7600 Fax: 905 803.4525 Mississauga, Ontario

Learn from die best.

even readers with a disinterest

Challenge yourself

Take charge of your career. Share in the benefits.

Watch us Work (mmtis

www.pcl.com

Honesty

Integrity

Dynamic Culture

Respect

Passion

war tales. As The Edge of Winter draws to a close, Mickey Halloran proves what can be done when people put their heart into something they truly believe in.

Entertainment

Aries March

20(m,

14,

By LEANNE

beginning, feel

the

you

restlessness

new

about a

new

plan or idea

new with courage and remember

positive sign. Execute your

plan

your dominate keywords,

AM.

Try to stay focused

semes-

this

You arc a social butterfly and tip sometimes the balance between work and play. A detailed date book will help keep you organized. ter.

St.

S.,

Family 800 Ottawa Kitchener, has a wide

April 20

May

After going to the Fireside

last

year and being impressed by a

fill-

a stable person with a

to return to

dinner menu.

phoned

This semester will begin disastrously but your ability to adapt

will present itself to you this week, you might be wary and resistant to change, as you usually are. Accept the offer and experience increases in money and happiness.

your jealousy and secretiveness anger others and the disaster will turn

prove benefi-

situations will

Stay calm and don't

cial.

let

into success.

advance

the restaurant in

was told take them. It was no

a reservation

that they don't

surprise

that

but

when we

arrived

around 6 p.m. there was a line extending out the door. On the plus side, the restaurant

awning over

the

had an outdoor

sidewalk which

minimum The line moved

kept the cold to a the

wait.

during pretty

quickly and after 15 minutes,

Gemini May

Sagittarius November 22 December 21

June 21

was obvious

for

you because you

challenge you have been looking

situations quickly.

and your ambition and energy will be put to the test. If you can conquer this semester you can conquer anything.

decorations

semester.

this

you

class missed

out

have

drinks and catch up.

no hurry

some

extra style.

that the restaurant

to get past still

was

Christmas as

floated around on

Jan. 5.

After being seated,

was

just

and

with

the

waitress's

she returned,

tizer,

costing

BBQ

breast

combo which

July 22

December 22

Y-

SLCJ If

away

you're

from

home

mixed

and

Cancer may be feeling a little lonely and depressed. Ward ott these feelings by getting together

with

some

friends

and doing

tend

overwork trying

more hours

work

tubing.

ity

July 23

side

will break

work

find

who

those

may seem cluttered now with school just getting

you organize your books and rearrange your living area to be

more spacious

Fireside can be found by visiting

http://www.onlife.ca/restaurants/o n/kitchener/3301

news tip, Spoke at ext. 3691

a hot call

you? Is it difficult to concentrate on rent or buy groceries this studying because you’re not sure you can pay the your financial month? There are a number of things you can do to help ease

Are

worries.

the if

ating for

work

some

financial pressures creating stress for

of cre-

astonishing group

Financial Aid office to see your financial situation has changed, check with the have information you can have your OSAP entitlement reassessed. They also in bursaries and scholarships available for students

on bursaries. There may be

and awards available for students in each beginning of the program are listed in the Student Guide you received at the Website. College school year. Information can also be found on the

specific programs. Scholarships

this semester.

Pisces

Everything

in.

love

details but hate the pressure

Virgo

back

You are always willing to exper iment and create an idea but hate working with the details. In group

February 19 March 20

August 23 September 22

right

February 18

Use any extra money you come across to catch up on bills.

—

it my meat was very filling, requiring a doggy bag. The whole meal including the drink, appetizer and tip came to just under $50 and" was well worth it. A full menu, along with hours and contact information for the

that tender.

COUNSELLOR’S CORNER: Finances

January 20

August

your bank.

was only using a

some qual-

Aquarius

money

halfway through

always looking for story and photo ideas. If you have

get

you time.

Leos love shopping and spending money, always looking for the life of luxury. Be cheap this week, stay away from the mall and anywhere you can spend

and the

perfectly.

going out

try

with friends and having

ribs fell right off

was cooked

dinner that

about

The meat

ahead. This semester should be an easy one for you. Instead of taking

something active like skiing or

Leo

size,

from the

was

and my partner ordered rice. Each meal cost $16.25. Other meal items ranged in price from approximately $7 to $19. A meal of baked

fist.

butter knife to cut

fries or

was a decent

of a clenched

chicken

included a half

vegetables.

potato

didn't realize until

and chicken

face value and

that

ordered a

ordered a baked potato as

January 19

Capricorns see

rack of ribs, the chicken, a choice

rice

BBQ

vegetables consisted of broccoli,

both decided to

ribs

with

cauliflower and sliced carrots and

and added

$3.95,

and the

side

sauce sitting on top. The mixed

help,

basket of garlic bread for an appe-

cheese for $1.

down one

chicken camouflaged

A few minutes passed waitress before the returned with our drinks and rushed to say, “I'll be right back to take your orders.” When

oval plate arrived with ribs

running

ordered a root beer.

psTOi Capricorn

Cancer

water and my partner, after scrambling to find the drink

ordered list

we our

until

entree arrived.

Spoke

June 22

only had a short wait

like to

rushed,

little

of baked or mashed potato,

new

Someone from

we would

Feeling a

baskets along the ceilings giving

This semester will present the for

drink.

After finishing our appetizer,

a wait-

ress appeared with a big smile

order the

This semester will be an easy adapt to

when

coat off

were seated in our booth. The decor included large mirrors covering the walls and hanging the restaurant

transition

some of the crust was a The cheese was worth

burnt.

the extra $

getting

asked us what

October 23

opportunity

decided

partner and

make Taurus

although little

chose to go out for dinner on a Saturday evening. 1

November

Restaurant

really hit the spot.

try their

AFomily

Deli

selection of scrumptious meals that

Scorpio i

drive for money.

vvjA

—

and

Deli

Fireside

Restaurant, located

ing breakfast,

Taurus

12 oz.

York strip sirloin cost $16.95. Other items on the menu included sandwiches, salads, pizza, seafood, souvlakis, burgers and, of course, their all day breakfast a tough choice with such a wide selection. Our garlic bread was good,

ready for a delicious meal under

The semester your

lasagna cost $9.95 and a

up your appetite and get

Fire

October 22

$ 20 this

— Page 9

2008

New

September 23

April 19

Make

MOUNTFORD

Libra

14,

Dining under $20

>C Week ofJanuary

SPOKE, January

will

help to calm nerves. Try to put

your work area near a window to give you a feeling of space.

You are a dreamer, and dreams can be achieved, but you must recognize they take dedication and hard work. You

do well in any-

Ask at the college Another way to relieve the pressure is through employment. part-time work finding help Student Employment Office (SCSB, Room 220) for for Opportunities during the school year or contract work for the summer.

employment may also be

world as you see

it.

available at the college through the work/study

program, including working as a peer

tutor.

Service clubs and churches

may

provide support.

thing which involves your imagination and creativity so show the If

more immediate needs, Counselling Services can provide a number of grocery vouchers and provide access to the Coilege/CSI-

you’re having

limited