http://www.theweal.com/index.php/site/index/ The Weal is SAIT's Student's Association's News Publication located in Calgary, Alberta Canada, SAIT Polytechnic en webmaster@theweal.com Copyright 2010 2010-04-22T23:46:56-07:00 http://www.theweal.com/?/site/aldred_15_million_donation_to_sait/ http://www.theweal.com/?/site/aldred_15_million_donation_to_sait/#When:23:46:56Z John Aldred was granted his heavy duty mechanic license in 1968 from SAIT, and now he's giving back to the institution. The Aldred family donated $15-million to SAIT, announced on April 21. “My family is making an investment in the Trades and Technology Complex because, not only will it be transformational for SAIT for generations to come, but it will elevate the stature of trades and how they are perceived as a career choice," said Aldred, founder and former chairman of Enerflex Systems. He also said education is vitally important for society and that he believes it needs to be approached with a multi-generational view. This is the single largest donation to a college or technical school in Canadian history. News 2010-04-22T23:46:56-07:00 http://www.theweal.com/?/site/saitsa_schools_ya_on_sex_drugs_and_rock_n_roll/ http://www.theweal.com/?/site/saitsa_schools_ya_on_sex_drugs_and_rock_n_roll/#When:06:05:45Z SAITSA’s educational event on April 14 in the Heart Atrium will rock your world with safety information about sex and drugs. In the meantime, bone up on your knowledge with these random facts compiled by the Weal’s Anton Strilchuk Whether it be having a ball, getting high at your favourite rock concert, or a combination, education can help make your experience safer. Alyssa Athanasopoulos, SAITSA VP Student Life, wants students to become aware of the risks associated with these activities at the upcoming Sex, Drugs and Rock ’n’ Roll event. “We’re going to have a bunch of companies come in and provide awareness on sexual health and drugs,” says Athanasopoulos. She hopes the event will remind students to practice safe sex and not to overdo “the college lifestyle.” Athanasopoulos says this isn’t a typical sex and drug awareness event planned for students. “I am trying to make it as fun as possible,” she says. “There will be lots of condoms and information. “Basically you walk in and there is a craft table with condoms, so be a little creative and make some crafts,” she says. The event takes place April 14 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Heart atrium. Sex • Vaginas are a cul de sac, what goes in come out. But your anus, is more like a curvy, bendy open highway. What goes in might not come out. So if you want to have fun up your bum, your toy must be anchored. • If you want to sweeten up your love life, don’t use sugar. Vagina don’t like sugar! So if your flower is tasting sour tap into some pineapple power. • Remember to lube up your toys before you enjoy, and always clean up. Silicone toys can be dangerous if you don’t take proper care by storing them in individual bags as well as making sure to use proper cleaners. • Before you lube up, study up. Water based lubes are most commonly recommended because they are non-irritating, non-staining, water-soluble and some even have a great taste. • If you think you are not at risk, think again. HIV and AIDS were once considered a “gay” disease but affect people of any gender, age and from any background. • Saliva, tears, sweat and urine do not transmit HIV. Sources: Passion Parties, Frisky Business, AIDS Calgary Drugs • Ibogaine is an active chemical found in the African Tabernanthe iboga root, as well as several other plant species, is a strong, long-lasting psychedelic known for its modern use in treating opiate addiction. • In the United States, Maryland bans the sale of cigarettes containing cloves. And Bhutan has banned the sale of all tobacco products. • In higher doses, nicotine is poisonous and is commonly used as an insecticide. • Chewing tobacco contains over 3,000 chemicals, including 28 known carcinogens. Contrary to common belief, it’s not a safe substitute for cigarettes. • Youth 15-24 years of age experience 10 times more harm in their lives due to drug use than among adults aged 25 and older. • People who use inhalants, like kerosene or cooking spray, can develop permanent health problems including: memory loss, brain damage, personality changes, muscular weakness, fatigue, and nerve damage starting in the hands and feet. Sources: http://www.erowid.org, AADAC, Stats Canada Rock ’n’ Roll • Gwar’s murder suits are air conditioned. • Cynthia Plaster, the original plaster caster, has cast over 75 rock star penises in a dental mold called alginates. • Adriana Smith, now a 40-year-old mom, can be heard having a real orgasm at the end of the Guns n’ Roses song Rocket Queen. • The first rock ’n’ roll song was Sister Rosetta Tharpe’s Strange Things Happening Everyday, and was released in 1944. • Rolling Stone rates Like a Rolling Stone by Bob Dylan as the greatest rock song of all time. • The Followill boys — Nathan, Caleb and Jared – otherwise known as three quarters of Kings of Leon grew up watching their father Leon, a Pentecostal preacher, instill the fear of God in parishioners. Sources: cynthiaplastercaster.com, Chartattack.com, Rolling Stone Magazine Beacon Press News 2010-04-08T06:05:45-07:00 http://www.theweal.com/?/site/know_the_tax_facts/ http://www.theweal.com/?/site/know_the_tax_facts/#When:06:00:59Z For students trying to file their own taxes this season, tuition and education credits can be problematic. Eric Manarintar, a volunteer with SAIT’s community volunteer income tax program, estimates about 80 per cent of students don’t know what to do with their tuition and education amounts when filing their taxes. The issue appears when students decide to claim their tuition and education amounts for themselves in a year that doesn’t actually benefit them, and they end up losing the potential tax credits. Radha Ganefan, a tax professional from H&R Block’s Brentwood office, says “students should not use their tuition and education amounts for themselves in a year when they do not owe taxes. They should transfer them forward or give them to a relative to use.” If you’re single, you can transfer the unused portion to a parent or grandparent who actually does owe tax money. If you’re married or living in a common-law relationship, you may transfer the credits to your spouse or common-law partner. The maximum amount that can be transferred is $5,000 per year. If you cannot fully utilize your tuition fee and education amount, you have the option of carrying forward the unused portion and applying it against income in future years. “When students start working and getting a salary,” Ganefan said. “It’s very beneficial to use the amounts they’ve carried forward from last year against their taxable income.” News 2010-04-08T06:00:59-07:00 http://www.theweal.com/?/site/vocal_virgins_can_test_talents_in_kensington/ http://www.theweal.com/?/site/vocal_virgins_can_test_talents_in_kensington/#When:06:00:57Z Whether you’re a musician or a music lover, a sound garden of sprouting talent awaits you just down the hill from SAIT. Are you a vocal virgin? Take your talent outside the shower and test your skills at one of the great weekly open mike nights. The atmosphere at The House Coffee Sanctuary and Oolong Tea House are the perfect place for your awkward first time. Catch a train to Sunnyside Station and make your way to Oolong Tea House, located at 110 10 St. N.W., where you’ll find local artists playing their favourite tunes on Tuesday nights at 7 p.m. Show up and add your name to the list posted on the wall, says Anna-Lee Rieb, a barista at Oolong. “Tuesday Song at Oolong allows people to practice in front of a live audience,” says Rieb. “It’s a lot more casual than playing at a bar.” Musicians are given time for three songs, unless it’s a slow night, says Rieb. Though she doesn’t write music, Rieb says she plays the guitar and has played before at Oolong. “Come early,” Rieb says . “Make sure to have a tea and relax first.” If you prefer coffee over tea, take your talent to The House Coffee Sanctuary at 126, 10 St. NW (just up the street from Oolong Tea House) on Thursday nights at 7:30 p.m. There aren’t any rules to govern who plays or who doesn’t, says Derrick Mitchell, the director of community at The House Coffee Sanctuary. Just keep the content clean, and don’t show up drunk or stoned, says Mitchell. “We’re a coffee shop, not a bar.” The sign-up list is put out at 7:10 p.m., with performances starting at 7:30 p.m. “One of the greatest things about Open Mike is watching acts and performers grow as musicians,” says Mitchell. “We’ve had poets, rappers, comedians, beat boxers, a lot of keyboard players and even an accordionist.” So what advice does Mitchell have for those wanting to get their feet wet? “Play and be bold,” says Mitchell. “The House community is very forgiving.” Open Mike Dos and Mights. When you sign your name on that sheet of paper at your favourite coffee or tea house, there are a few simple things to take into consideration. These three easy steps from an open mic vet will calm your newbie nerves. 1) The most important thing to remember when singing in front of caffeine-loving patrons is, they most likely aren’t there to see you. Use this to your advantage. Everyone’s first show is something they’d rather forget. These people will forget you. 2) Practice endlessly before you take the stage. You’re the best singer your living room has ever heard. But the second you have strangers sitting in front of you, nervousness can easily take over. Avoid this by knowing your songs on auto-pilot. 3) Have a good time. You’re likely only going to be allotted 10 to 15 minutes to play, so have fun with it. If you aren’t having fun, neither will anyone else in the room. – by Tyler Ostermayer Entertainment 2010-04-08T06:00:57-07:00 http://www.theweal.com/?/site/summer_living_at_rez/ http://www.theweal.com/?/site/summer_living_at_rez/#When:06:00:57Z Students currently living in residence may be examining the possibilities before them: move home over the summer or stay in res. Melissa Gervais, a community assistant (CA) in The Tower, says many students are renewing their leases over the summer. But for those students who are considering staying, expect a bit of a shuffle. Students will have to move into a different room with a summer roommate. “For the summer you can room girls and guys together,” Gervais said. Nina Hornjatkevyc, educational counsellor in Student Development and Counselling Services, says financial ramifications are a key deciding factor in what makes a student stay or go. A job or practicum often draws students home over the summer months. Mike McKinna, a first-year student of the petroleum technologies course is returning to his hometown Saskatchewan for the summer. McKinna will be working as a rough neck on the oil rigs and is yet undecided about returning to SAIT residence to live next year, “in case a better option comes up.” For some students, moving home over the summer may in fact end up being a more costly venture. In the case of international students, the price of travelling overseas to their homes may not be a feasible venture, Hornjatkevyc said. However, living rent-free with family members from the months of May to August is an attractive option, she said. Tower resident Samantha Terry is a fourth-year student in the drawing program at ACAD. Terry will be returning to the U.S. to live with her family over the summer months. Terry has a summer job lined up in Philadelphia. It is “cheaper and I get to see my family and friends,” Terry said. For students not sure of what to do during the summer, counselling services are available for advice pertaining to individual financial circumstances. “We will talk about different resources like a run down of budget, or individual budget circumstances,” Hornjatkevyc said. Outlook 2010-04-08T06:00:57-07:00 http://www.theweal.com/?/site/weird_world_news_april_8_2010/ http://www.theweal.com/?/site/weird_world_news_april_8_2010/#When:06:00:51Z Body smugglers Two women were arrested April 3 when they tried to smuggle a deceased male, 91, onto a flight out of Liverpool’s John Lennon airport bound for Germany. The two women, 41 and 66, were arrested on suspicion of failing to give notification of a death and were released on bail. The deceased was put in a wheel chair and adorned with sunglasses. Staff at the airport became suspicious. They prevented the body from boarding the flight and contacted police. The cause of death is unknown. Reuters Back off, get your own pizza A pizza delivery boy in New York out-manoeuvred two armed men and made his delivery while it was still hot. Assami Semde, who works for a pizza shop in East Harlem, got into trouble on the 27th floor of the apartment to which he was delivery pizza. Two men in the hallway harassed him, demanding the pizzas. When he refused, one man pulled a gun. Semde tackled the gunman and fought them until building security officers appeared and still made the delivery. Msnb.com Cops tell man to call the cops A shopkeeper in East Yorkshire, England was chasing thieves from his store when he saw a marked police car and asked for help. Their response? “First he asked if I had reported it to the police, then asked if I had rang the police,” said Graham Taylor, the shopkeeper. When Taylor did call the police, the two officers missed the call because they were celebrating another officer’s retirement at a party at their station. Taylor then went to the police station and found a police car decorated with balloons. Times of India Procrastinations 2010-04-08T06:00:51-07:00 http://www.theweal.com/?/site/comment_re_cover_story_april_1/ http://www.theweal.com/?/site/comment_re_cover_story_april_1/#When:06:00:46Z I have been wearing the hijab for almost seven years now. My reason for doing so is because it truly lets people see who you really are. Wearing the hijab really lets you know who your real friends are, and they are looking to judge you by your personality and not looks. I think everyone strives for people to like them for who they are and not how good they look. Also the obvious reason I wear the hijab is my belief in God. The hijab is not a responsibility, it is a right given to all woman. It’s a benefit to me, so why not? It stops men from looking at you in a provocative way. It helps you focus on many things, such as school and work. It is a way to keep my religion close to my heart. In today’s society it is very easy to forget where you came from and what you believe in. All my friends are very supportive of all my beliefs and if there is someone who disagrees with me that is their own personal opinion. Peers on campus usually compliment me on the colours I wear and how I wear it. It is very flattering to hear someone giving me compliments on it. It is just like someone giving you a compliment on your hair or your outfit that took you sometime to fix. I strongly believe that the hijab is a beautiful thing and it should be celebrated by all women. The Last Word 2010-04-08T06:00:46-07:00 http://www.theweal.com/?/site/reinvent_your_summer_with_five_new_activities/ http://www.theweal.com/?/site/reinvent_your_summer_with_five_new_activities/#When:06:00:46Z Beyond the onslaught of never-ending assignments, there are four months of summer holidays and a welcome reprieve from studies. Tried-and-true activities like camping or road trips immediately come to mind, but why not venture a little further out of your comfort zone this summer with something new? Hang Gliding: “The most thrilling thing is having your feet lifted off the ground,” said John Janssen, equipment manager and program co-ordinator at the U of C outdoor centre. The learning curve in hang gliding is gradual, Janssen said. The first couple of hours are nothing more than learning to run with the glider and then slowly building on skills depending on the participant’s comfort level. Skydiving: Yvette Thomas, co-ordinator of Skydiving Calgary, said skydiving is a life-changing experience and gives participants the ultimate feeling of being alive. “It’s a must-try for anyone,” said Thomas. “You’ll have an adrenaline rush for a week.” For first timers, Thomas recommends a tandem jump; an experienced professional dives with you from 10,000 feet. It’s up to them to pull the ripcord, so the new diver enjoys the ride rather than worrying about a safe landing. Caving: Not recommended for the claustrophobic, caving offers a unique and memorable experience for those seeking something outside the norm. “It’s a good physical experience and a good mental experience as well,” said Charles Yonge, owner of Canmore Cave Tours. Yonge said caving offers participants a sense of discovery, and explore the beauty of unchartered territory. “Be ready to push your comfort zone a little,” said Lisa Heffernan, a guide with the company. Z-Trip This activity is the first of its kind in Canada. Participants are harnessed into a 10 foot tall sphere and sent head over heels down the COP ski hill on a hollowed out course. Luckily, the spheres roll gradually enough to avoid motion sickness. “It’s one heck of a ride,” said Brendan Arnold, a communication specialist for WinSport, the company that runs the activity. “It’s probably one of the (most fun) things you can do at the park. It’s unreal.” Arnold said there is no possible way to fall out of the sphere once the harnesses are fastened, and the hollowed out nature of the track prevents it from going out of control. Bouldering Bouldering offers a new way to take on the already popular sport of rock climbing. It ditches the traditional harnesses in favour of lower altitudes and a more unpredictable experience. All indoor gyms place crash pads at the bottom of the course to prevent injury. But outdoors, this detail is left to the climber. “It’s best if you go to an indoor gym first, just so you know the basic technique involved and how to fall off safely,” said Shaun Luong, an instructor at Crux Climbing and Bouldering Centre in Calgary. Luong said first-timers shouldn’t be afraid of falling off, which is one of the biggest challenges to get over. He also recommends finding books divulging good outdoor locations, which also include the level of difficulty of each location. Sports 2010-04-08T06:00:46-07:00 http://www.theweal.com/?/site/saitsa_puts_onecard_into_students_wallets/ http://www.theweal.com/?/site/saitsa_puts_onecard_into_students_wallets/#When:06:00:46Z The lineup at the Odyssey Coffeehouse may be shorter next year due to a new all-in-one card. Introduced by SAITSA, the One Campus Card functions like a gift card. Students purchase credits on it at any SAITSA location and use it like a debit card. There is no transaction fee, and any money placed on the card will carry over into the following semesters. SAITSA General Manager Michael Stickney said the idea behind the card is all for student convenience and can be used at the Gateway, Sensations and Sensations Express, Student Services Centre, SAITSA Seconds Used Bookstore and the Odyssey Coffeehouse. Stickney said SAITSA will be testing out the card at numerous locations this summer, and have a full launch in August to new residence students. Stickney said he hopes the card becomes part of every student’s wallet. First-year Medical Radiological Technology student Diandra Novick said she sees the benefit in getting the card. “It’s a super convenient way of never carrying cash around,” Novick said. “(It’s) a little more secure than not having cash on you (and) a little less chance of losing it.” Sarah Scott, a first-year RTBN student, doesn’t see the point as she believes most students go off campus for food. “I think personally the new (card) is kind of a waste, it is spending money on money,” Scott said. “It would be like a debit or visa…and they work enough already. If (there was) a card that went with other companies, stores, restaurants, cafes and what not in Calgary that gave a certain discount at each place, that would be a lot better.” The card will be available in September. News 2010-04-08T06:00:46-07:00 http://www.theweal.com/?/site/this_week_in_entertainment_april_8_2010/ http://www.theweal.com/?/site/this_week_in_entertainment_april_8_2010/#When:06:00:44Z Thursday April 8 Elegy Quickdraw Animation Society present “a meditation on mortality.” 7 p.m. Friday April 9 Seven Ages Loose Moose Theatre Crossroads Market, 8 p.m. Students $15 (403) 265-LMTC Saturday April 10 Inspiración: A dance interpretation about the origins of creativity. University Theatre, 8 p.m. $35 Sunday April 11 The Rosette Guitar Duo: “Meditations” Cantos, Second Floor, $15 students 7 p.m.Tix at the door. Monday April 12 Reconnections with Historic Blackfoot Shirts Glenbow Museum Student $9 (with ID) Tuesday April 13 Stuck With Amateurs Tuesdays Open Mike Night Nathan’s Restaurant and Bar, 8 p.m. Wednesday April 14 Spring Fiction Shakedown Cantos, Second Floor Featuring Anne McWhir7 p.m. Entertainment 2010-04-08T06:00:44-07:00