WIC HOWLER
Editors: Valerie Wong & Ainsley Fielden
Teacher Advisor: Ms. Grey-Sortland
WINTER FASHION TRENDS
By: Valerie W (Grade 11)
2025 has nearly arrived and with the start of a new year, many would agree that a new wardrobe is also needed. In this article, there will be an overview of the various trends that are currently going on from the colors that you should wear to the types of clothes that are now going viral This will save you time as you will have the perfect guide as to what to spend your money on this year. You will no longer need to doom scroll to find good quality and easy-to-style pieces that will look good on everyone.
Firstly, any outfit that is a burgundy red or an emerald green is currently all the rage These two colors are a symbol of happy holidays and will soon be seen everywhere you turn. To match your Christmas spirit, you could even have monochromatic nails that will match your clothing. One of my all-time favorites is a burgundy sweater from brands like White Fox, Oak & Fort, or Aritzia. Aritzia even has the Sumac Burgundy matching sweat-set that has been trending all over the internet for the past month. Whether it is for yourself or is a Christmas present, there will be no doubt that everyone will find the wearer both stylish and chic.
Next, a good knit sweater can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. It is something that can be considered both casual, yet sophisticated. There are many exceptional brands to buy knit sweaters from such as Banana Republic, Wilfred, and Club Monaco. Personally, my recommendation would be to get a knit sweater from Polo Ralph Lauren. It is on the pricier end of the spectrum, but the quality is superb and can last for many generations Pro tip: buying from the outlet stores can significantly reduce costs while simultaneously receiving the same product One of the ones that have been trending on social media is the Polo Bear Sweater. Many stores that sell these types of sweaters will often do a clearance at the end of winter as well if you are planning your wardrobe for the following year.
Last but not least, Ugg slippers are a staple piece that have been trending for nearly a decade! Worn by many influencers and celebrities, Ugg continues to be one of the most popular winter shoes around. They are comfy, warm, and cute all at the same time Not to mention, they can almost always be found for a limited time at the supermarket Costco. They are an indoor and outdoor shoe, and the brand has many unique styles and colors If you do not already own a pair, it is the perfect shoe to buy for the holidays.
Whether you are looking to expand your wardrobe or to buy a gift for somebody else, these are stylish solutions that are sure to be loved by everyone.
References: “Polo Bear Sweater ” Ralph Lauren, www.ralphlauren.ca/menclothing-sweaters/polo-bearsweater/100048691 html#lang=e n CA&rootLevelCat=&br=t&q=be ar%2Bsweater&start=1. Accessed 2 Dec 2024
Sweatfleece Cozy Fleece Mega SWEATPANTTM | Aritzia Us, www.aritzia.com/us/en/product/ cozy-fleece-megasweatpantTM/116237.html. Accessed 2 Dec. 2024.
UGG Women’s Tazz Shoes, www sportchek ca/en/pdp/uggwomen-s-tazz-shoes81159612f.html. Accessed 2 Dec. 2024
TOP CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS
By: Liana A (Grade 10)
Tech and Home Elegance
Impress with innovative gadgets and stylish essentials for a modern touch
If you're looking for gifts that combine function and style, tech gadgets and home essentials are always great choices. The Kodak Instant Photo Printer is perfect for people who want to turn their favorite memories into physical keepsakes instantly It’s compact, easy to use, and works with both iPhones and Android devices. For those who value a good night’s sleep, the Philips SmartSleep Wake-Up Light mimics a natural sunrise, helping them wake up feeling refreshed. On the other hand, the Printworks Chess Set is not just a game but also a chic decor piece. It’s a fun yet sophisticated addition to any home, blending entertainment with modern design!
DIY and Gourmet Treats
Show thoughtfulness with handmade crafts and delicious delights
Sometimes, the best gifts are the ones that show thought and effort DIY ideas like Mulled-Cider Sachets are perfect for creating something cozy and unique. By combining simple spices like cinnamon and star anise, you can craft a gift that warms both the heart and the home. For a personal and edible touch, making Chocolate Nut Bark is another thoughtful option it’s delicious and easy to package If you're shopping for someone who loves cooking, the Schmidt Brothers Grill Tools makes a practical and sleek gift that elevates outdoor cooking. These ideas are not just gifts they’re experiences that show how much you care!
References
44 Best Christmas Gifts Ideas of 2024, According to Gifting Pros, www bestproducts com/lifestyle/g62736721/bestchristmas-gifts/. Accessed 2 Dec. 2024.
“77 of the Best Christmas Gift Ideas for Every Budget | CNN Underscored ” CNN, Cable News Network, 29 Nov 2024, www cnn com/cnn-underscored/gifts/best-christmas-giftideas.
“The Best 39 Christmas Gifts for Everyone on Your List ” The New York Times, The New York Times, 14 Dec 2021, www nytimes com/wirecutter/gifts/best-christmas-giftideas/.
Goertzen, Brenley “Every Holiday Gift Guide from the Strategist (so Far) ” The Strategist, The Strategist, 21 Nov 2024, nymag com/strategist/article/best-christmas-giftideas html
Lesley Chen Lesley Chen Lesley Chen is a San Francisco-based freelance writer who covers shopping, et al “The 55 Best Christmas Gifts for Everyone on Your List ” Real Simple, www realsimple com/holidaysentertaining/gifts/best-christmas-gifts Accessed 2 Dec 2024
WEST ISLAND COLLEGE WELCOMES WINTER: A HOLIDAY MARKET CELEBRATION
By: Kennedy D (Grade 12)
The market will hold five plus within-school vendors, which are run by the councils, clubs, and external local vendors. There will be cookie boxes, candy bags, blind wrapped books, 3D Printed trinkets, and so many more gifts you can buy for friends, family, or yourself! There will also be various activities that can be enjoyed by all when the market runs such as firepits and hot chocolate. These activities can be enjoyed by everyone, including younger siblings, students, and adults.
This year, West Island College will be hosting its first Winter Market in the Greenhouse! In association with the GreenLab and five different councils within the school, there will be gifts, snacks, and plants for purchase at the market The GreenLab is a student and teacher-run-business that works with the greenhouse to promote healthy eating and nutritional tips to students and families at WIC The Winter Market will be the first large initiative launched by the GreenLab and will also be an opportunity to fundraise for the greenhouse at WIC.
HOLIDAY MOVIES
By: Elle M (Grade 11)
The holiday season is one of those iconic times of the year that almost everyone looks forward to However, Calgary’s notoriously cold and long winters can make it hard to want to go outside at all; luckily that’s when movie nights come in Obviously, there are the classics: A Charlie Brown Christmas, The Grinch, Elf, Home Alone, and many more We’ve all seen them a million times, and there’s no shame in saying they’re getting a bit old. Maybe you’re just looking for a movie that gives the energy of the holidays but isn’t punching you in the face with cheer. If that’s the case for you, then you’re in luck! Here are three movies that will deliver just that First on this list is The Holdovers (2023). This movie is perfect because it features snow, gifts, and the general good message of kindness that comes with this time of year! Be prepared to bring some tissues with you, though; this movie will make even someone with a heart two sizes too small shed a tear The Holdovers is the story of the teacher Paul Hunham, the cook Mary Lamb, and the student Angus Tully. It takes place at an all-boys boarding school that is about to close for the holiday season. However, some boys are not able to go home over the break We follow these three characters who have all found themselves stuck together for the holidays.
The story shows how these characters navigate their own personal struggles, while also finding empathy for the struggles of their winter companions around them through unusual circumstances
Warnings for The Holdovers:
Profanity: Moderate Alcohol, Drugs
Smoking: Moderate Sex and Nudity: Mild Frightening and Intense Scenes: Mild Violence and Gore: None
Additionally, if you feel like you didn’t get your fill of horror movies during the Halloween season but want to keep the winter spirit present, then maybe The Shining (1980) would be a good movie to put on your watchlist. The classic horror film takes place in a ski resort, where we follow the Torrance family: Jack, Wendy, and their child Danny Jack takes up a new job looking after the Overlook Hotel so he can work on his writing in peace However, Danny begins to worry about his family when his premonitions grow stronger and more realistic when they stay at the hotel longer As more discoveries about the hotel come to light, tensions grow, Jack’s mental stability begins to fracture, and the fact that the Torrance family is practically alone in an isolated resort is sinking in--the Overlook Hotel may not be such a peaceful place to call home after all.
Warnings For The Shining:
Violence and Gore: Severe Frightening and Intense Scenes: Severe
Sex and Nudity: Moderate Profanity: Moderate Alcohol, Drugs, Smoking: Mild
The Grand Budapest Hotel is a ski resort that is mostly run by Gustave H. and Zero Moustafa, a concierge and lobby boy in training Gustave is an overzealous man that takes his job and clients very seriously. However, when terrible accusations are made against him, he starts to panic about what actions he must take to attempt to clear his name. This movie has a great balance of both fun and serious moments that all contribute to the over-arching theme of navigating tragedy in a nostalgic and thoughtful way
Warnings for The Grand Budapest Hotel:
Sex and Nudity: Moderate Violence and Gore: Moderate Profanity: Moderate Frightening and Intense Scenes: Mild Alcohol, Drugs Smoking: Mild
Finally, if you still want your movie to reflect your love of skiing but you do not want to feel on edge then The Grand Budapest Hotel (2014) might just be the movie for you!
For any warnings that apply to these movies you can check out IMDB’s parents’ guide for more information.
"Shining Hall Way final" by Christopher Kray Visuals is licensed under CC BY 2 0
Junior Chess Club:
CLUBS AND COUNCILS
By: Lora H (Grade 7)
The Junior Chess Club was founded this year by Mr. Park. The club serves as a place to play chess, talk about strategies, and socialize with others
The Junior Chess Club is the newest addition to this year’s selection of clubs and councils What you do there is self-explanatory; you play against your friends, you play against other members, or you can learn there if you do not know how to play chess The club is just for a little bit of fun You can drop in as needed if you have, for example, an overlap of clubs and such.
The club meets on Thursdays in Room 15, near Gym 1 There, you can play against your peers while you eat your lunch, learn some strategies from Mr. Park, and laugh with your friends In any case, if you do not have a clue as to how to play chess, that’s okay since many people come to learn. Your peers can teach you the basics such as how the pieces move They can also show you some basic strategies. Mr. Park can also give you some tips and tricks In anything, practice makes perfect, and chess is no different This makes it even more amazing that you have the whole lunch period to figure out the subtle patterns of chess
It is a market day, but even if you’re set on that Thursday trip to the Farmers’ Market, you can grab a bit of food and come back to play a friend. If you’re still hesitating to join, there is absolutely no sign-up required; all you need to do is walk into Room 15 on their set day and drop in to learn some chess. Whether you know or don’t know how to play chess, everybody is super nice There are always people there willing to teach you so don’t feel scared walking in with zero chess knowledge. On the other hand, if you’re feeling extra confident, you could go against Mr Park and see how you do. If you do end up winning against him, there is a prize that includes a large bag of chips for your victory. It has yet to be claimed. And remember, whether you have the skills of a grandmaster or have not yet learned to play, those in grade 9 and below can come to Junior Chess club and have some fun playing against your friends So, don’t hesitate to drop in and start a game of chess!
Francophone Council:
The Francophone Council encourages and promotes the French culture It focuses on spreading French culture in our strong community at WIC. It is hosted by Madame Kruchten, with coleaders Kim Hartono and Kristina Belash. The goal of the council, with the help of its members, is to share WIC’s amazing French community with others.
The Francophone Council has and still promotes French culture successfully and strongly. They have many events throughout the year, all which further highlight the French community In March, they do so via promoting Francophone Week as well as the French Carnival in the same month. The council does various activities during the carnival; last year’s carnival included a campfire, maple taffy being handed out by volunteers, and much more On top of that, the council often has a Cafe Croissant on Thursdays where volunteers from the council will hand out French treats outside the Senior Art Room
If you have any interest in volunteering at some of these activities, you can sign up in Room 3, where the council meets every Monday at lunch There are many things you can do as a new member such as volunteering, giving ideas in meetings, and there is much more you can do to increase the impact of the council The Francophone Council is always open to new members at any point during the year, so feel free to join if your Monday lunches are free Their goal is incredibly important to WIC’s French community, especially with the French Immersion program being so prominent in our school Being aware of other cultures is incredibly important, so joining the club can promote this goal to an amazing extent and can build a stronger relationship with your peers at WIC. The Francophone Council has become a centerpiece and staple of our French community here at WIC, so please join if you’re interested New members are always welcome, and there are so many opportunities available if you do join!
HOLIDAY MOVIES TO WATCH
By: Neva K & Abby B (Grade 10)
This holiday season is predicted to be an especially cold winter, so there’s nothing better to do than stay indoors and watch television. Whether it’s your favorite classic or a new film, there’s no shortage of festive movies Of course, some of the classic holiday movies include Elf, The Grinch Who Stole Christmas , and if you’re up for a spooky holiday, The Nightmare Before Christmas .
Bringing in the artistic and puppeteering style of Tim Burton, The Nightmare Before Christmas will ensure a memorable season The film follows the journey of Jack Skellington, a citizen of Halloweentown. He stumbles upon Christmastown and plots to bring Christmas under his control by kidnapping Santa Claus and taking over the role. Additionally, Elf encapsulates a heartwarming, and hilarious theme that ensures a festive holiday laugh. Starring Will Ferrel as Buddy, the movie combines ideas of reality with the North Pole whilst promoting themes of kindness and staying upbeat. Lastly, The Grinch Who Stole Christmas is always a classic when you are unsure about movie choices.
Not only does The Grinch Who Stole Christmas portray a variety of meaningful messages, the author’s humor also brings lots of joy and festivity to your holiday! Similar to The Nightmare Before Christmas, The Grinch also illustrates characters stealing Christmas and acting as Santa Clauses
If you’re looking for something older, the 1964 Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and the 1969 Frosty the Snowman are both always vintage classics.
" THE GRINCH AND MAX " BY LISA ZINS IS LICENSED UNDER CC BY 2.0 .
And if you’re looking for something new, there is no shortage of new festive movies out this season, including A Sudden Case of Christmas starring Danny DeVito, as well as Meet Me Next Christmas featuring the popular singing group Pentatonix. According to Rotten Tomatoes, the number one best Christmas movie of all time is the 1944 classic Meet Me in St. Louis. Starring Judy Garland, Meet Me in St Louis is “a disarmingly sweet musical” that “offers a holiday treat for all ages”, as said by Critics Consensus on Rotten Tomatoes. The title of the second-best Christmas movie of all time was given to The Shop Around the Corner, followed closely by The Holdovers.
In conclusion, there is no shortage of festive movies to choose from this holiday season, whether you are looking for something old, new, or a family favorite Even if you’re not a super big fan of overly cheesy Hallmark holiday movies or just holiday movies in general, there’s always something for everyone.
References:
100 Best Christmas Movies of All Time - Classic Christmas Films.” Rottentomatoes com, https://editorial rottentomatoes co m/guide/best-christmas-movies/. Accessed 3 Dec. 2024.
" RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER " by Zellaby is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND
THE EVOLUTION OF NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS
By: Sama A (Grade 12)
As we approach 2025, we should all begin to think about our New Year's resolutions In the modern sense, these resolutions are a commitment to improvement made at the start of the calendar year, to be fulfilled by year's end They are a wonderful way that we can practice self-improvement and growth. However, our contemporary view of New Year's resolutions is vastly different from their traditional origins In honour of this self-reflective season, this article examines the origins of this ancient tradition
The Babylonians are believed to be the first to establish New Year's resolutions for themselves. Over 4,000 years ago, around 2000 B C , the Babylonians celebrated the coming of the New Year in a 12-day festival known as Akitu Akitu marked the beginning of their farming season and consisted of religious festivities. During Akitu, Babylonians would crown and celebrate their king, and make promises that served as the foundations of today’s resolutions. However, these promises are in stark contrast to the resolutions made now Most often, they were pledges made to their pagan gods and were centered around paying debts and returning borrowed items It was their belief that an unfulfilled promise meant you would not be in the favour of the gods the following year.
The Babylonian calendar was adopted by the Roman Empire and eventually modified by Emperor Julius Caesar, who designated January 1st be the beginning of the New Year. This date held special significance to the Romans, as January was named after the God Janus, the two-faced spirit Janus looked both to the past and to the future, making Janus the ideal representation for the New Year a time for both reflection and new beginnings. The Romans would make promises to Janus for the New Year Janus was believed to have inhabited doorways and gates, further emphasizing themes of transitions and new beginnings
During the Middle Ages, resolutions were heavily influenced by Medieval culture. Knights participated in New Year’s resolutions by renewing their vow to chivalry in the annual “Peacock Vow”. The “Peacock Vow” had the knights place their hands on a peacock a symbol of nobility at the end of the year and make a resolution to maintain their values in the coming year.
New Year's Resolutions have evolved dramatically. Yet, the central theme of the tradition has remained–reflection and growth
DECEMBER DELIGHTS: FIVE MUST-TRY WINTER ACTIVITIES IN 2024
By: Kennedy D (Grade 12)
As we welcome the warm holidays and the light snowfall of December, Calgary is bustling with fun winter activities and holiday markets for all to enjoy For this month, I have created a list of 5 winter activities that are perfect for warming up during the snowy break with a group of friends or family!
THE TESLA CYBERCAB
By: Riley J (Grade 9)
Tesla has introduced a new car model, the Tesla Cybercab The company aims to change how people travel around in cities. The Tesla Cybercab is designed in a similar way to the Cybertruck but is instead used for movement within towns. The Cybercab is well-built with a nice interior, comfortable seating, and modern screens for both the passengers and the driver
The most distinctive feature, however, is the ability of a Cybercab to drive itself using Tesla's Autopilot System. This means that the Cybercab can find its way through city traffic independently, drive through the most optimal route, and avoid congested paths all without human intervention. It's a technology that will make rides safer and more efficient The Cybercab is fully electric, meaning that it does not emit anything that has a negative impact on the environment. It boasts Tesla's latest battery technology, which allows for longer driving ranges between charges.
This helps reduce air pollution in cities, making them cleaner and healthier.
Inside, passengers find a spacious and comfortable area The seats of the Cybercab are ergonomic and have various climate control features. The vehicle also has entertainment systems such as a large touchscreen to watch videos or to browse the internet during the ride. Safety is paramount at Tesla The Cybercab is designed with a number of sensors and cameras, giving a complete view of the current environment outside the vehicle to avoid any accidents Its solid construction also protects its passengers in case of an accident.
The Cybercab will reduce the costs for taxis and ride-sharing companies because there will be no need for a driver. Not to mention that there will be lower fuel and maintenance costs associated with its electric engine
This will make it cost-effective for fleet operators. While cities are choked with congestion and smog, the Tesla Cybercab will be a fine option. To the eyes of a city administration that is in dire need of a transformation in urban transport, the self-driving Tesla Cybercab will be a great solution.
With Tesla's record of pursuing innovation, the Cybercab will likely influence redesigning future transportation within cities.
The Tesla Cybercab takes safety, efficiency, and ecology to the next level in city transport. The advancements in technology and design to improve urban transportation are now offered by the Tesla Cybercab. This will pave the way to a greener and wiser future
References
MSN. (n.d.). Msn.com. Retrieved December 2, 2024, from https://www.msn.com/enus/autos/other/teslas-new-driverless-vehicle-isturning-heads-in-texas-the-company-thatkeeps-on-giving/ar-AA1v3mNh?form=MG0AV3 (N d -a) Autoweek com Retrieved December 2, 2024, from https://www autoweek com/news/a62580444/te sla-robotaxi-cybercab-reveal-features/ (N d -b) Autoevolution com Retrieved December 2, 2024, from https://www.autoevolution.com/news/the-teslacybercab-has-a-place-in-the-petersen-automuseum-for-the-holidays-243514 html? form=MG0AV3
CELEBRATIONS IN THE HOLIDAY
By: Zemen E & Nesh W (grade 11 & 12)
The holidays are almost here and it can be hard to keep track of all the different events that are celebrated over the winter Curated for you is a list of the various holidays where you can learn new greetings, traditions, and other information. This is brought to you by DIPC
Holiday Meaning Greeting Tradition
Christmas
Hanukkah
Celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ; a season of joy, love, and generosity.
Merry Christmas!
Kwanzaa
Festival of lights that celebrates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem
Celebrates African heritage, culture, and community through the seven principles
Happy Hanukkah!
Decorating trees, exchanging gifts, attending church, singing carols, and sharing meals with family and friends
Lighting a menorah, playing dreidel games and enjoying traditional food like latkes
Happy Kwanzaa!
Lighting the kinara, storytelling, music, dancing, feasting, and reflecting on unity, selfdetermination, and faith.
Salgirah
Mubarak
Yule
Celebration of the birth anniversary of Aga Khan, spiritual leader of the Ismaili Muslim community.
A Pagan festival marking the Winter Solstice, celebrating the rebirth of the sun and honoring nature and the cycle of the seasons
Happy Salgirah!
Happy Yule!
Prayers, community gatherings, sharing meals, charitable acts, and expressions of gratitude for guidance and blessings.
Lighting Yule logs, decorating with evergreen, feasting, exchanging small gifts, and celebrating the return of longer days