Dear Swami Girl and Swami Boy,
I think I like my best friend. Problem is she just broke up with her boyfriend, and she thinks we're just friends. I want to make a move, but I am not sure if I should. It doesn't feel really serious. Help me?
-Crush
Swami Boy: Ask her out, you wimp! The longer you wait, the better possibility some other person will ask her out.
Swami Girl: I think you should wait a bit so that she is over he ex. You don't want to be the rebound guy. She is vulnerable right now and if your feelings for her aren't that serious, then you should wait a bit. Don't break your friendship just for a crush.
Dear Swami Boy and Swami Girl,
I am in bug trouble. I did not get accepted into the program I want. My marks are too low. My parents are not going to like this. They want me to become a lawyer and get into U of T. I really don't know what to do. I told my parents that I did get accepted so that they don't get mad. I even faked my marks. How am I going to get out of this?
-Liar Liar
Swami Boy: Well, be prepared to get into a lot of trouble because your lies are going to catch up with you. Try some honesty and see how that works out. And trust me, you're too young for your life to be ruined by this.
Swami Girl: The only way out of this mess is to tell the truth. Sorry, there is no other way. Tell your parents the truth as fast as possible. I think you should have a long talk with them though. You sound really stressed out about marks and if you went as far as to fake them, then you might have a problem. If you really want to get into U of T, then take an extra year and improve your marks. If you want to get into U of T just because of your parents, then have a talk with them and let them know what you want to do. It's your future, so whatever you choose now affects your life.
Monday, April 23, 2007
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
Levels or Percentages?
Recently the newspaper did a poll asking what students preferred when being marked levels or percentags. Not surprisingly percentages won by a landslide. “I hate levels because I never know how well I’m doing. If I get a level four I don’t know if it’s 80% or 100%.” says a 12th grade student. Levels are so vague and students like to know exactly what mark they are receiving in a class, especially in grade 12 when a single percent can make all the difference on university and scolarship applications.
Another students said “I don’t see the point of using levels, I mean the teachers have to convert all the marks into percentages for report cards anyway.” Which is so true, what’s the point of levels if the teacher has to change them all come report card time anyway. Wouldn’t that take longer than just assigning a percent in the first place?
But the question still remains, if students prefer percentages so much, why are levels being used at an increasing rate? One reason levels may be used is because of it’s efficiency. It’s much faster for a teacher to give you a level from one to four on an assignment than to figure out a percentage out a hundred. This is especially true for smaller assignments.
By Jackie Barry
Winter Fashion 2006: The Year Where Chic meets street
Winter Fashion
Fashion, once used as a weapon against social herding has now morphed itself into a means of producing carbon copies of one another. At this school, it is becoming increasingly difficult to pick out your friend amongst all the black jackets adorned with fur hoods. The general female school population is becoming one another’s mirror image as everyone dresses alike. Why is it that no one questions this absurdity? After all, we are all not identical twins dressing alike because of our mother’s sheer desire. Among all the carbon copies you can find a unique style to call your own. How do you do this you ask? The answer is quite simple: Don’t dress the exact same as the mannequin in the store.
This winter dare is to be the ‘black sheep’ amidst the crowd of clothing clones and wear the latest trends in a different way rather than following what everyone else wears. The winter of 2006-2007 is one that cuts a cleaner silhouette, toying with the concept of shape. Skillful layering of different textures of predominantly dark colours is chic, feminine and totally this winter.
This winter’s colours are as mentioned, predominantly dark but with electrifying explosions of colour, red being the most preferable. Long cardigans shaped with belts, tunics paired with leggings, chunky knits and shorter cropped jackets show the gorgeous feminity of a female. This season’s black and white range from clean lines to bold stripes and optical waves, monochrome combinations are the seductively simple route to smart dressing. Restrained, chic and edgy all describe this winter new look which is adding a feminine flare to the typical masculine tailoring. All of these fashions can of course be purchased at the nearest Stitches or Sirens closet to you girls.
This winter’s fashion for the young men of our school has been built around the notion of ‘rough and ready’. Cable knit sweaters, plaid, checkered, and solid coloured shirts resemble a relaxed yet put together individual. The boys likewise are wearing clothes of better fit, solid and striped polos are designed with a vintage fit in mind. Outerwear, depending on the individual’s style, is either one that has a loose fit or one that is of a close fit. This winter’s fashion trend for the men is one that allows them to be laid back but has a definite air of refined masculinity.
By: Abina Thayanithi
Getting To Know Your SAC President: Dylan Bradbury
This year at Thomson we have an SAC president that possesses many talents: he is very motivated, isn’t afraid to speak in front of a big audience, and plans to do a hell of a good job at every obstacle that is presented to him. I’m talking about Dylan Bradbury. Most of you students might already have seen him, walking around the school, looking like just any other student, but I bet you that you don’t know him quite well. Well the school newspaper was given the opportunity to interview our president to tell you students, especially the grade nines, some things that you might not know about him.
What made you want to run for SAC president?
I was encouraged by my teachers and the former president Tushar Chadha.
What makes do you think the difference is between you and our previous president?
Well, I was only in the SAC for one year before becoming president while Tushar was in there for two. Also I feel that I am more motivated and I have what I like to call the Dylan factor.
How did you feel when you have head that you won the SAC elections?
That day I was in Ms. Mabson’s science class doing an experiment. When I heard that I won the elections my class applauded me and told me congratulations for winning. I also turned red as usual.
Other than being in the SAC what other extra curricular activities or school clubs were or are you involved in?
In Gr.10 I was involved with the Prefects. I was also at the Reach For The Top trivia team and recently I was involved with the homework club in my Gr. 11 year.
What awards have you achieved through out your years here in Thomson?
Well in Gr.9 I received an award for drama. I got the award for Gr.10 business because of my excellent marks and I was in the Honour T in grades 9 and 10.
What are your post secondary plans right after high school?
Right after high school I plan to study in either U of T or at Ryerson University. Then after I graduate I want to get a career in journalism and hopefully become a reporter for CityTV. If that doesn’t work out I can always be a motivational speaker because I have always been good at that. Or if that fails I can always try and go into politics and become a politician. If all of that fails I could always become a pimp….ha-ha just kidding.
Do you have any hidden talents that your peers don’t know about?
There are quite a few talents my peers don’t know about me, but I’ll just share a few. One talent that I have is that I can sing a song involving all 50 presidents of the United States, but that’s only a song that I sing in the shower. Another talent that you might not know about is that I’m a trivia genius.
On a scale of 1 to 10, how high would you rate yourself when it comes to trivia?
I would have to say 9 or close to 10 and I’m not bragging.
Do you have anything weird about you?
Oh yes, absolutely. First of all I’m allergic to denim. That’s why you will never see me wearing denim and if I do wear it I break out into hives. I don’t know if you would consider this weird, but every time I take a shower, I really have to sing a song.
Where do you see yourself right after your term in office is done?
I see my self as the 2006-2007 David and Mary Thomson valedictorian. I know that it’s not going to be easy to get it because we have so many students that are really eligible to get the title, but hopefully this interview will gain me the publicity to gain that title.
Getting to Know Ms. Mantini
This new school year has brought many new faces to Thomson. Ms Mantini, our new principal, has many experiences after being in about 10 schools, including our neighbour Bendale. She has interacted with a wide range of people, from those university and college to those in apprenticeships. Ms. Mantini feels very positive towards our school, and says, “The students are friendly, warm, and very involved. Many of them introduced themselves to me in the hallways …”
Throughout the interview, Ms. Mantini talks a lot about various school programs and activities. This leads to her praise on Thomson’s new program - the Link Crew - in which she notices that the Grade 9’s this year are fitting in very well. Moreover, she is very happy about this year’s Graduation Ceremony brought many good reviews from teachers and parents.
In every school, certain things are done for many years, and eventually lose the reason behind them. In this aspect, Ms. Mantini is confident in providing “ new eyes” for Thomson and bringing new methods of operation into the school. In regards to the alliance of Thomson and Bendale, Ms. Mantini explained that the main goal is to expand the access to various program choices for students from both schools, such as the tech-programs at Bendale and our academic and physical courses at Thomson. Ms. Mantini also added that she understands the main concern is keeping the history and identity of Thomson, but she stressed that she sees it as “Thomson plus”, rather than a complete merge of the two schools.
When it came to Thomson’s weak point, Ms. Mantini answered, “I haven’t discovered any weak point yet.” However, with her belief in giving students a chance to understand their career areas more in depth, she would like to have more programs in the school, especially those relating to work and career fields. One focus to administration improvement is choosing and hiring the right staffs and teachers. Another change Ms. Mantini mentioned, which takes place in every school in the TDSB, is shifting the head of each curriculum every three years according to the School Board’s policy.
Ms. Mantini’s own values and principles focus on providing a variety of experiences and a respectful and safe environment for the students. “I believe that every child can succeed and it is our responsibility to help.”
How to be a Scene Queen
I know you’re wondering: What on earth is a scene queen? I’ll just summarize it for you. A scene queen is a girl who gains popularity with her sense of style and the guys she dates. It wouldn’t help that they’re easy on the eyes as well. A scene queen is all the rage, didn’t you know?!
Since you are oh so interested in tips on becoming a scene queen yourself, I’ll let you on a few hints.
- ‘Clown Vomit’ Style
The scene queens shop at stores like Kitson, American Apparel, and Right in the Family Jewels on Myspace. Out of your budget? Try mixing and matching bright coloured clothing. Scene queens always were metallic bikini tops underneath they’re clothes. They’re style is self-described as ‘clown vomit.’ Get a ripped, striped tube top pulled over a bikini top, a tutu, fish net stockings, and a tiara on your head to top it all off.
- Hair!
A scene queen isn’t complete without eccentric, scene hair. Get funky coloured extensions in colours like pink, platinum blonde, and dark red. Put them all in at the same time. Fusion extensions are the best for this kind of look. Tease it immensely and don’t wash it for a couple of days. That ought to smell great.
- Makeup
To go along with the ‘clown vomit’ theme, your makeup should somewhat resemble a clown’s. Go overboard with the blush, and wear lots of foundation to achieve perfect skin. Pile on the eye shadow, either in black or an eye shadow that corresponds with your outfit. Gigantic false lashes should be applied to the top and bottom lashes. Dark or bright colours can be worn as lip colours.
- Famous Boyfriends
This tip here is the most important. Most scene queens get famous this way, by dating a guy in a band. Panic! At the Disco and From First to Last pretty much create scene queens. Almost every girl they’ve dated recently has become a scene queen. Audrey Kitching (the most famous scene queen and in the photo) dated Brendon Urie, the lead singer of Panic! At the Disco.
- Accessories
A scene queen’s look is finally complete with some accessories added. A scene queen doesn’t go anywhere with her Sidekick 3. They also wear big, extravagant jewelry, especially Hello Kitty jewelry. Hair accessories are added too, like bows in the front of the hair.
- Networking
Meet other scene queens and photographers. Scene queens always have elaborate photo shoots, so it’s important for them to network and find photographers that they connect with.
- Be Yourself!
Be yourself! And by that, I mean ignore my tips and do what you feel is right for you. Originality made these girls who they are. Being yourself will obviously show others the true you and not some person who ripped off someone else.
So, if you really think you have what it takes to be a scene queen, follow these steps and you will well on your way.
By Khadija KingThe Wonders of Fanfiction
Welcome to one of the most popular components of pop culture: fanfiction. Fanfiction is the fusion of fan imagination with the most popular TV series, movies, and books. In fan fiction, fans, like you, can let your greatest desires soar, and dream up whatever ending or storyline you want to have. The best part of fanfiction is that you can even create a character like you and pair yourself up with the hero of your dreams.
Not everyone chooses to write fanfiction to translate their dream duos into writing. Some take it up as a part time writing gig or more of an experiment in another writer’s world before they create their own. With fan fiction, there is a wider scope to experiment your writing skills on and it also helps that you can write anonymously and get feedback from people who don’t really know you (and therefore, can only judge you based on your writing skills).
Before I thrust you into the world of fan fiction, I need to give you a map of sorts to fall back on in case you get lost (which you will). First of all, you should be aware that there’s canon and fanon. Canon is the type of fanfic that remains true to the story and fanon is based on everything invented in the fanfiction world. It will take some time for you to get used to fanon and actually find out what on earth is going on.
Fanfics, just like novels, have different categories; the categories range from action/adventure to drama to parodies. The summary that the author provides usually let you know what kind of story it is and which characters are paired in the story. A little bit of advice here, watch out for summaries that contain the words ‘I suck at summaries. So yeah, just read and review.’ In my opinion, the skill of a good author is in providing an alluring summary and the lack of it sends glaring warning signals for the reader.
Like all aspects of pop culture, fan fiction has it’s own language, well abbreviations more like. Here’s a bunch you will find handy:
· Crossover- This means that the fanfic has been combined with another fandom. For example, Buffy, all of a sudden killing Lupin means that you are reading a Buffy fanfic with a Harry Potter crossover.
· Slash- This term means that the fanfic is based on same-sex pairings and sometimes change the sexual orientation of the character to make the story work.
· OOC (out of character)- If you find that you cannot understand what is wrong with character, that this because the author with the omniscient power that they have, has changed the character’s personality.
· AU (alternate universe)- This type of fic usually contains same characters but different setting and consequently, different background stories.
· Mary Sue- The annoyingly perfect character that every amateur author uses to end all the conflicts in the fanfiction.
Now that we have cleared these up, dive in! Below is a list of sites to get you started on reading fanfiction:
This is the biggest site out there for fan fictions. This site has fanfiction on everything from cartoons to books to movies. Beware though, this site is painstakingly slow and some of the works of writing are equivalent to primary school English.
Þ www.harrypotterfanfiction.com
Groan if you will, but yes, Harry Potter is one of the most popular stories when it comes to fanfiction. Perhaps it is because J.K. Rowling still has to publish the seventh book that the budding writers feel that there is freedom for them to twitch and tweak her world as they see fit.
This site is described as the Tolkein Loving Community and love Tolkein they do. They cover everything from LOTR, from books to movies and even fanfics on the actors.
If you are looking for special fandom fanfiction, such as fanfics about Buffy the Vampire Slayer or even Jane Austin, follow these three steps:
- Go to google.com.
- Type in ‘[insert fandom here] + fanfiction’.
- Voila! And you have thousands of fanfics waiting for you to read them.
Happy reading!
By Sarah AhmedIgnoring the Struggles of Hunger of Innocent Souls
The 30-hour famine can feed the message to all
by Shindujan Yogaratnam
Many events that happen around the world go into oblivion almost al the time, either due to the lack of media coverage or simply for the fact that some people do not even care. The same can be said about one major issue – world hunger. We live in a wealthy society in which we can obtain foods and other goodies by purchasing them mostly or stealing them (for those who are that desperate). We cannot even stand more than two hours of no food, because we have this habit of stuffing ourselves for satisfaction. It is alarming to say that the amount of food that one consumes per day is presumably to be equivalent to the number of deaths relating to hunger and malnourishment per day.
The treacherous thought of hunger is something that cannot be avoided. However, many undeveloped countries are vulnerable to this physiological trap. It is sad to see kids of our age and younger sleep with empty stomachs for days, and die as a result of this constant agony. The dominating countries use these undeveloped countries, for mining and trade, to feed their stomachs but what do those other countries get? Absolutely nothing. It is unbearable but it is, in fact, the truth. Is there anything we can do to get the message across, even with all the media attempts to do, about how people (kids mostly) are suffering from hunger? Perhaps there is one bright spot to this, and as youths we can make that message be heard.
The 30-hour famine. WHAT? That’s right, the 30-hour famine. It is a nationwide extravaganza that teenagers take part in to realize how severe famine can be. It is a fun 30 hours in which students from high schools across the country can spend one day inside the school having loads of fun. Oh I mean it – LOADS OF FUN. Now, the word “famine” besides the 30-hour might bring a few shivers. Well, it can be a lot but it certainly is not as bad as what other kids around the world are really going through. For this challenge brought forth by WorldVision, we can drink water but cannot eat food! Now how about that? It’s a sweet challenge if you ask me.
Our school has given the thumbs-up, with permission from the school administration, to take part in this exciting feat. The National Famine dates are February 24-25th and April 7-8th of 2006, and Thomson will be conducting this event sometime during the 2nd semester. As young citizens, it is time for us to start thinking about what we can do to help others. With a small donation of $30 per student, each hunger-struck child can feed themselves per month. If 12 students join hands, they can help provide the money that enables that child to feed him or herself for an entire year. This is an intriguing sponsorship activity that we should consider, teachers and students alike.
If you think you are that student who is willing to spare 30 hours of their time for a worthwhile cause, then stay tuned for more info during the course of the school year. It is bound to make Thomson proud to host such an event.
by Shindujan Yogaratnam
Many events that happen around the world go into oblivion almost al the time, either due to the lack of media coverage or simply for the fact that some people do not even care. The same can be said about one major issue – world hunger. We live in a wealthy society in which we can obtain foods and other goodies by purchasing them mostly or stealing them (for those who are that desperate). We cannot even stand more than two hours of no food, because we have this habit of stuffing ourselves for satisfaction. It is alarming to say that the amount of food that one consumes per day is presumably to be equivalent to the number of deaths relating to hunger and malnourishment per day.
The treacherous thought of hunger is something that cannot be avoided. However, many undeveloped countries are vulnerable to this physiological trap. It is sad to see kids of our age and younger sleep with empty stomachs for days, and die as a result of this constant agony. The dominating countries use these undeveloped countries, for mining and trade, to feed their stomachs but what do those other countries get? Absolutely nothing. It is unbearable but it is, in fact, the truth. Is there anything we can do to get the message across, even with all the media attempts to do, about how people (kids mostly) are suffering from hunger? Perhaps there is one bright spot to this, and as youths we can make that message be heard.
The 30-hour famine. WHAT? That’s right, the 30-hour famine. It is a nationwide extravaganza that teenagers take part in to realize how severe famine can be. It is a fun 30 hours in which students from high schools across the country can spend one day inside the school having loads of fun. Oh I mean it – LOADS OF FUN. Now, the word “famine” besides the 30-hour might bring a few shivers. Well, it can be a lot but it certainly is not as bad as what other kids around the world are really going through. For this challenge brought forth by WorldVision, we can drink water but cannot eat food! Now how about that? It’s a sweet challenge if you ask me.
Our school has given the thumbs-up, with permission from the school administration, to take part in this exciting feat. The National Famine dates are February 24-25th and April 7-8th of 2006, and Thomson will be conducting this event sometime during the 2nd semester. As young citizens, it is time for us to start thinking about what we can do to help others. With a small donation of $30 per student, each hunger-struck child can feed themselves per month. If 12 students join hands, they can help provide the money that enables that child to feed him or herself for an entire year. This is an intriguing sponsorship activity that we should consider, teachers and students alike.
If you think you are that student who is willing to spare 30 hours of their time for a worthwhile cause, then stay tuned for more info during the course of the school year. It is bound to make Thomson proud to host such an event.
The Beginner’s Guide to Podcasts
By Lauren
If there is one new thing to Thomson this year, it is the plethora of ears adorned with those wonderful white headphones we have all come to love. Yes, there has been a noticeable increase in iPod owners this school year, and this guide is for you.
Almost everyone has heard of podcasts. IPod owners have seen that little tab at the side of their iTunes window, but not everyone has dared venture into the world of these downloadable radio shows. You know, they are free and you know, there are shows about every imaginable topic, so what’s stopping you? Well, no more excuses. Here are some handpicked podcasts to start off your new obsession with pre-recorded internet radio shows. Simply type the titles into the podcast search and be on your way.
Mugglecast
This is for all you Harry Potter fanatics. There are several Harry Potter podcasts out there, but this is by far my favorite. Run by the people behind the excellent fan site www.mugglenet.com, this podcast discusses all things Harry. You can download a show, lie back and let them talk nerdy to you. They discuss everything from Snape’s innocence, to the new movie, to whether Harry is a horcrux, and well, everything. It is sure to quench the HP thirst of the fangirl/boy you know is in you.
Projekt Podcast
This particular podcast is not for everyone, but it is amazing for those who enjoy gothic music. Now by gothic, I don’t mean Marilyn Manson and Cradle of Filth. I’m talking the real stuff. Black Tape For A Blue Girl, Autumn’s Grey Solace and Arcana. The podcast is run by the Projekt record label, and they play the bands signed to them. So while there is plenty of plugging of their artists, it has good music. The lady hosting can be boring at times, but the music makes up for it. So whether you’re a fan of gothic music, or are just curious, check out Projekt Podcast.
Suicide Girls Radio
Hosted in LA, Suicide Girls Radio is a weekly radio program converted into podcasts. If you know who the Suicide Girls are, you will probably be thinking the podcast will have some pretty raunchy material, but you’d be very wrong. Those girls talk about relationships and take calls from listeners. ITunes has given this show the “explicit” label, but although the girls will delve into the topic of sex, the talk is kept clean and they don’t even swear. Also, the music played is really good when left undisturbed.
The Ongoing History of New Music from 102.1 The Edge
From The Edge, the radio station loved by Toronto rockers, comes the Ongoing History of New Music in podcast form. If you are interested in musical trends and history, this is for you. This show has been running on the radio for quite some time, but now you can download away and listen to them at your leisure. Personally I find this podcast really interesting.
If there is one new thing to Thomson this year, it is the plethora of ears adorned with those wonderful white headphones we have all come to love. Yes, there has been a noticeable increase in iPod owners this school year, and this guide is for you.
Almost everyone has heard of podcasts. IPod owners have seen that little tab at the side of their iTunes window, but not everyone has dared venture into the world of these downloadable radio shows. You know, they are free and you know, there are shows about every imaginable topic, so what’s stopping you? Well, no more excuses. Here are some handpicked podcasts to start off your new obsession with pre-recorded internet radio shows. Simply type the titles into the podcast search and be on your way.
Mugglecast
This is for all you Harry Potter fanatics. There are several Harry Potter podcasts out there, but this is by far my favorite. Run by the people behind the excellent fan site www.mugglenet.com, this podcast discusses all things Harry. You can download a show, lie back and let them talk nerdy to you. They discuss everything from Snape’s innocence, to the new movie, to whether Harry is a horcrux, and well, everything. It is sure to quench the HP thirst of the fangirl/boy you know is in you.
Projekt Podcast
This particular podcast is not for everyone, but it is amazing for those who enjoy gothic music. Now by gothic, I don’t mean Marilyn Manson and Cradle of Filth. I’m talking the real stuff. Black Tape For A Blue Girl, Autumn’s Grey Solace and Arcana. The podcast is run by the Projekt record label, and they play the bands signed to them. So while there is plenty of plugging of their artists, it has good music. The lady hosting can be boring at times, but the music makes up for it. So whether you’re a fan of gothic music, or are just curious, check out Projekt Podcast.
Suicide Girls Radio
Hosted in LA, Suicide Girls Radio is a weekly radio program converted into podcasts. If you know who the Suicide Girls are, you will probably be thinking the podcast will have some pretty raunchy material, but you’d be very wrong. Those girls talk about relationships and take calls from listeners. ITunes has given this show the “explicit” label, but although the girls will delve into the topic of sex, the talk is kept clean and they don’t even swear. Also, the music played is really good when left undisturbed.
The Ongoing History of New Music from 102.1 The Edge
From The Edge, the radio station loved by Toronto rockers, comes the Ongoing History of New Music in podcast form. If you are interested in musical trends and history, this is for you. This show has been running on the radio for quite some time, but now you can download away and listen to them at your leisure. Personally I find this podcast really interesting.
Wall of Words
By: Sidra Nadeem
Walking into a washroom, hope you might see a clean mirror, enough toilet paper and flushed toilets. Seems like a traditional setup, right? I think not.
Every 10 minutes you would see a student running into the washroom trying to seek refuge from listening to the teacher who has been talking for the last 70 minutes as they enter with a typical attitude and repetitive routine, standing in front of the mirror for at least 5 minutes and lingering a little too long in front of the mirror as they fiddle with their hair and see the latest changes in their skin such as a pimple, a rash or something as miniscule as a pen mark. Then they will encounter friends from last semester, starts talking to them about their latest “boyfriend-girlfriend” issue and leave without even wasting a single tissue paper. A small visit to the washroom has turned into a social gathering. On the other hand, there are those kinds of people who come to the washroom and finish the whole stack of toilet paper. Write the messages on the wall by using hideous words with the permanent marker, hoping for the world to see and thinking it will stay on for an eternity. They utilize the toilets, and quickly leave so they won’t get late into there next period class without clearing out their personal matter.
In Thomson you would see more words in the washroom stalls than in a student’s binder. Random quotes about two people falling in love with each other becomes the latest headline of the washroom talks and soon turns into a new form of equation. “X+Y = LuV 4EvA.” Washroom doors have become a collage of profanities and racial comments. Quit humorous, isn’t it? The Girls Washroom has become the new center for socializing and passing on messages. It is built into student’s nature to carry a pen into the washroom with him/her, and spontaneously bring that pen out and scribble whatever vague language happens to be in their mind. I mean, I haven’t seen a washroom door that doesn’t have any coarse language that hasn’t been turned into a super-funny joke. Not a single person would ever think of writing this in their own washroom, but as soon as they enter into a public place he/she turns into a regular sexual comedian.
No matter how funny these lame graffiti’s sound, we should not be writing anything in our washrooms. Any surprised visit from the education board or other school students can bring our reputation in the society down.
Walking into a washroom, hope you might see a clean mirror, enough toilet paper and flushed toilets. Seems like a traditional setup, right? I think not.
Every 10 minutes you would see a student running into the washroom trying to seek refuge from listening to the teacher who has been talking for the last 70 minutes as they enter with a typical attitude and repetitive routine, standing in front of the mirror for at least 5 minutes and lingering a little too long in front of the mirror as they fiddle with their hair and see the latest changes in their skin such as a pimple, a rash or something as miniscule as a pen mark. Then they will encounter friends from last semester, starts talking to them about their latest “boyfriend-girlfriend” issue and leave without even wasting a single tissue paper. A small visit to the washroom has turned into a social gathering. On the other hand, there are those kinds of people who come to the washroom and finish the whole stack of toilet paper. Write the messages on the wall by using hideous words with the permanent marker, hoping for the world to see and thinking it will stay on for an eternity. They utilize the toilets, and quickly leave so they won’t get late into there next period class without clearing out their personal matter.
In Thomson you would see more words in the washroom stalls than in a student’s binder. Random quotes about two people falling in love with each other becomes the latest headline of the washroom talks and soon turns into a new form of equation. “X+Y = LuV 4EvA.” Washroom doors have become a collage of profanities and racial comments. Quit humorous, isn’t it? The Girls Washroom has become the new center for socializing and passing on messages. It is built into student’s nature to carry a pen into the washroom with him/her, and spontaneously bring that pen out and scribble whatever vague language happens to be in their mind. I mean, I haven’t seen a washroom door that doesn’t have any coarse language that hasn’t been turned into a super-funny joke. Not a single person would ever think of writing this in their own washroom, but as soon as they enter into a public place he/she turns into a regular sexual comedian.
No matter how funny these lame graffiti’s sound, we should not be writing anything in our washrooms. Any surprised visit from the education board or other school students can bring our reputation in the society down.
A Few Words with Sunjay Nath
By Sarah Ahmed
On November 16, Sunjay Nath visited Thomson and spread his wise words with tales of his childhood and with the ‘tairyfale of Rindercella’. The Ross (from Friends) look-alike, not only differed from the traditional image of a motivational speaker, but also had unconventional methods of teaching morals. He inspired us with the story of his college, Pete and made us snort through our noses with his imitations of old kungfu movies.
Sunjay Nath graduated from Queens University with a degree in engineering and also has a Masters degree in business. However, it was his love for public speaking that cut out his life for him. He started his career in professional speaking in 199 and has been doing so for 10 years. After the motivational speaker assembly, he also spared sometime for an interview. We asked:
What is your goal in life?
SN- My goal is to be wealthy in all aspects of life. I want to be wealthy in terms of spiritual, physical, social and mental health.
When did you come up with “chife”?
SN- I was listening to a reggae song and trying to come up with a routine. The song said something about living your life. It didn’t match, so I played with the words for all the negative feelings and came up with chife.
Our generation does not have a favourable reputation in the media, what with the drugs and violence associated with us. Do you agree with this image of today’s teenagers?
SN- I believe students are the same everywhere and in anytime. That is to say, they want to be accepted into their society. And in different societies, that means different things- in some you may need to get a tractor to fit in, while in others it’s about the gadgets you have. So no, I’m not worried about the drugs or violence that are suppose to be affecting you guys.
On November 16, Sunjay Nath visited Thomson and spread his wise words with tales of his childhood and with the ‘tairyfale of Rindercella’. The Ross (from Friends) look-alike, not only differed from the traditional image of a motivational speaker, but also had unconventional methods of teaching morals. He inspired us with the story of his college, Pete and made us snort through our noses with his imitations of old kungfu movies.
Sunjay Nath graduated from Queens University with a degree in engineering and also has a Masters degree in business. However, it was his love for public speaking that cut out his life for him. He started his career in professional speaking in 199 and has been doing so for 10 years. After the motivational speaker assembly, he also spared sometime for an interview. We asked:
What is your goal in life?
SN- My goal is to be wealthy in all aspects of life. I want to be wealthy in terms of spiritual, physical, social and mental health.
When did you come up with “chife”?
SN- I was listening to a reggae song and trying to come up with a routine. The song said something about living your life. It didn’t match, so I played with the words for all the negative feelings and came up with chife.
Our generation does not have a favourable reputation in the media, what with the drugs and violence associated with us. Do you agree with this image of today’s teenagers?
SN- I believe students are the same everywhere and in anytime. That is to say, they want to be accepted into their society. And in different societies, that means different things- in some you may need to get a tractor to fit in, while in others it’s about the gadgets you have. So no, I’m not worried about the drugs or violence that are suppose to be affecting you guys.
That's So Gay
And Other Homophobic Verbal Faux Pas.
By Lauren Strapagiel
We hear it so often we barely even notice anymore. “That’s gay”, “you’re so gay”, “what’s up, homo?” When did blatant homophobia become okay? I know what most of you are thinking, that’s its become so common it doesn’t mean anything anymore. We’re all desensitized. It’s time to take a step back and consider what’s coming out of our mouths.
First, lets put things in perspective. What if instead of “that’s gay”, the new it-phrase was “that’s black”, or “that’s Muslim”. Still okay with you? We seem to have decided that it’s socially acceptable to be homophobic, but not racist. Aren’t we progressive. We deem it inappropriate to insult blacks and Muslims because we see them around us all the time, therefore its wrong. We may not be able to pick gays, lesbians, and bisexuals out of a crowd, but that doesn’t mean they’re not there. We even have two openly gay/lesbian teachers at our school. They’re indirectly insulted on a regular basis everyday. Also, statistics tell us that there are many closeted students at DMT. So, show some respect already! When you say “that’s so gay”, you’re not just reiterating a tired phrase, you’re insulting the people around you. In the end, you’re just making yourself look stupid. Homophobia is so passé.
If you’re one of the wonderful people that think that homophobic phrases shouldn’t be said, then stop letting them happen. Start calling your friends on it. To teachers, you do your part by stopping students from making racist comments, why not stop them from making homophobic ones? When you hear a student say, “that’s gay”, do something. When you don’t, you send a message to other students that it’s okay.
David and Mary Thomson is known for its multiculturalism and tolerance. Lets decide to bring our sexual diversity and anti-homophobia status to the same level. While the sad truth is that some people will always be intolerant of anyone who’s not straight, I think that’s its not much to ask to show some respect. So stop the hate. Remember that no matter how many times you say and hear “that’s gay”, it still means, “I’m ignorant”.
By Lauren Strapagiel
We hear it so often we barely even notice anymore. “That’s gay”, “you’re so gay”, “what’s up, homo?” When did blatant homophobia become okay? I know what most of you are thinking, that’s its become so common it doesn’t mean anything anymore. We’re all desensitized. It’s time to take a step back and consider what’s coming out of our mouths.
First, lets put things in perspective. What if instead of “that’s gay”, the new it-phrase was “that’s black”, or “that’s Muslim”. Still okay with you? We seem to have decided that it’s socially acceptable to be homophobic, but not racist. Aren’t we progressive. We deem it inappropriate to insult blacks and Muslims because we see them around us all the time, therefore its wrong. We may not be able to pick gays, lesbians, and bisexuals out of a crowd, but that doesn’t mean they’re not there. We even have two openly gay/lesbian teachers at our school. They’re indirectly insulted on a regular basis everyday. Also, statistics tell us that there are many closeted students at DMT. So, show some respect already! When you say “that’s so gay”, you’re not just reiterating a tired phrase, you’re insulting the people around you. In the end, you’re just making yourself look stupid. Homophobia is so passé.
If you’re one of the wonderful people that think that homophobic phrases shouldn’t be said, then stop letting them happen. Start calling your friends on it. To teachers, you do your part by stopping students from making racist comments, why not stop them from making homophobic ones? When you hear a student say, “that’s gay”, do something. When you don’t, you send a message to other students that it’s okay.
David and Mary Thomson is known for its multiculturalism and tolerance. Lets decide to bring our sexual diversity and anti-homophobia status to the same level. While the sad truth is that some people will always be intolerant of anyone who’s not straight, I think that’s its not much to ask to show some respect. So stop the hate. Remember that no matter how many times you say and hear “that’s gay”, it still means, “I’m ignorant”.
Advice Column: Misto Keeti Vs Sage Wisdom Giver
Q: "I have been in a relationship for a while and have been disrespecting this woman. I do love and care for her and she feels the same for me..... But sometimes she does get frustrated when I do something that I'm not supposed to do and she finds out. Will she leave me even though she says she won't because she "loves" me?"
-Shabby
Misto Keeti: Oh drama!!! Ok, maybe part of the reason she’s mad at you because you ARE doing something YOU know you’re not supposed to do and the worst part is that YOU don’t even tell her. So duh, she’s going to be mad at you. A good relationship is based on honesty and open-ness. Disrespecting her is a big fat underlined no! Especially when you claim to “love her”.
Sage Wisdom Giver: I agree with Misto Keeti. He is right, a relationship is based on trust and openness and if you are not giving your partner either of those things, then how can you expect her to be a good girlfriend to you? Love can only get you so far. You need to try a little harder because if you keep on doing the THINGS that you are NOT supposed to do she will leave you in the end, so you need to start making some changes.
Q:"I lost a close friend of mine, to a car accident. She ran away from home, and later that day we got news of how an accident took place on the main street right beside where I lived. She died, due to the impact of the car, she lost her limbs and her face was crushed. Unfortunately it was a hit and run. My whole family is devastated. We were like family, we lived together, grew up together, spent days lazying around together. Everyone keeps telling me how I can get her replaced, if I wanted to but I question if its the right thing to do... It’s only been a few days. Do you think it’s too early to get her replaced?"
-Alfred the Great
Misto Keeti: There’s nothing wrong with making new friends. If your close friend had any sort of impact on your life, I don’t think she can ever be replaced as long as she’s alive in your heart and in your memories. I know what I said was lame but it’s true.
Sage Wisdom Giver: There is nothing wrong with moving on, actually it’s probably the best thing you can do. Be around people who love you, your friend would have wanted that. She wouldn’t have wanted to see you so depressed that you would swear off your other friends. If anything she probably wanted to see you happy. You will never replace her because she is your best friend, but you can move on and make new ones.
Q: "Its time to choose a course and career path for university and parents expect me to dive right into it, step my game up and what not... but I feel like I'm not ready and I don't want to give up my small window to temporary freedom after I graduate and jump into adulthood and more responsibilities just yet. I'm considering taking another half a semester in order to perfect my grades as well as take my time off getting ready for it all and just relaxing for a bit, and even saving up for my future expenses. A friend of mine said that I shouldn't take a year off because I'll lose interest in pursuing my studies but I don't think so, I'll just be preparing my self for absolutely dedicating my self to it. Whereas I don't think its okay to spend thousands of dollars starting university if I know I'm not ready and I'd not perform on my best. What do you suggest?"
-The Young are Fooled by the Wise
Misto Keeti: If you’re anything like me, balancing out a job, maintaining good grades, having a vivid social life, and making a portfolio for university, I think you would be already one foot outside the door of adult hood. All of us are scared of the real world, heck I’m not moving out ‘til I’m like 26! But the point is you’re going to have to grow up someday, might as well be now. There’s nothing wrong with taking a year off, as long as you have good buddies to keep you on track, kind of like what they’re doing right now (Hint Hint).
Sage Wisdom Giver: I think that it’s okay for you to take some time off for figuring out your life and where you want go and do with. If you know in your heart that you won’t lose interest, than the time off could be a very good idea. Perfecting your grades? Your parents couldn’t possibly argue with that and neither could I. Follow your instincts it’ll all work out in the end.
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