Student Newspaper 2016 February - Dr. John Hugh Gillis Regional

The Royal Inquirer
February 2016
drjhg.srsb.ca/content/newspaper
Issue # 7
HAPPY VALENTINE’S!
Here’s a fun guide to tell you who is your best match, according to your zodiac sign!
Emory MacKenzie
Why you should like Valentine’s Day
Emory MacKenzie
I can already hear the collective groan from that statement, but hey—hear me out. Valentine’s Day is
made out to be a day for couples in society today. However, that’s not necessarily the case. Valentine’s
Day is about spreading love in general; not just to one person. It is about expressing your gratitude for
the people in your life and giving thanks to them for being there for you. Celebrating Valentine’s Day
doesn’t mean that you have to be dating somebody. Take some time and spread some love with people
you’re close to and that mean a lot to you! Love comes in all shapes and forms and having a day centered
around that creates loads of positivity. And, if you need any other reasons as to why you should like Valentine’s Day just think about all the chocolate and candy that comes along with it. That right there
should be a seller.
THE ROYAL INQUIRER
THE ROYAL INQUIRER—
STUDENT NEWSPAPER OF DR. JOHN HUGH GILLIS
REGIONAL HIGH SCHOOL
Amazing Staff Who Help Us
Helen Gillis and Theresa Harris (Teacher Advisors),
Wanda Fougere (Review),
Janie Lumsden (Printing)
Newspaper Co-Heads (Editors-in-Chief)
Will Fraser & Kyle Stewart
Executive Folding Committee
Jastina Mahendrarajah (President), Justin Mahendrarajah
(Vice President)
LIBRARY BOOK OF THE MONTH
Theresa Harris, School Librarian and
Newspaper Advisor
The Gatekeeper's Sons is Book 1 of
'The Gatekeeper's Saga', and is a
centered around fifteen-year-old
Therese Mills, who is heading home
in the car with her parents when
someone begins shooting at them,
sending their car into a lake. She
watches her parents drown and
somehow finds the strength to
escape, and winds up in the coma
that introduces her to the twin sons
of Hades.
Hypnos (the god of sleep) and Thanatos (the god of
death). Than makes a deal with Hades and goes as a
Katie Broussard, Joey De Leebeeck, Emory MacKenzie, mortal to the Upperworld to try and win Therese's
Austin MacPherson, Grace Poole, Ruthie Stanley-Blackwell heart, but not all the gods are happy. Some give her
gifts. Others try to kill her.
Our February Team
----------------------------------
The deal requires Therese to avenge the death of her
Submit your content
parents. With the help of Than’s fierce and exotic
sisters, the Furies, she finds herself in an arena face to
via Facebook or to [email protected]
face with the murderer, and only one will survive.
Next Issue Theme
Submissions Due
The characters really make the story. The
March Break! Gatekeeper's Sons is satisfyingly diverse. Its setting
offers mystery but also provides explanations for how
romance evolves and how Therese's quest for justice
23 February 2016 becomes entangled in this process.
Disagree, agree, have a comment or concern? Email us
your thoughts to [email protected]
IF I WERE A KOALA...
Being Book One, The Gatekeeper's Sons provides no
neat conclusion but leaves the door open - wide open
- for Book Two in the saga. Fans of this book who
appreciate its blend of romance, mythology and
mystery will await Book Two with baited breath: the
combination of mythical and human worlds is
satisfyingly complex and concludes with evidence
that the real drama is only just beginning.
Will Fraser
If I were a Koala, I would reject the disgusting capitalist construct of Valentine’s Day. Rather than buying
expensive jewelry or dinners, I would craft heartfelt gifts such as gluten-free spaghetti art, and mosaics
from eucalyptus leaves. As a koala, I would understand that love is not based on the amount of money
spent, but based on the amount of thought and effort put into the gift. If I were a koala, I would show my
love everyday, in every way.
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ISSUE #7
JOIN THE ART CLUB!
Ruthie Stanley-Blackwell
“Being an artist is the same as being a wizard…
only instead of a wand you use a pencil for your
magic.”
Hello Dr J,
I would like to suggest joining the Art Club. It is a great
extracurricular activity and you can surround yourself
with artistic, talented, funny and friendly people. You
will make many great friends and we would all be
more than happy to welcome you! You don’t have to
be an artist to join, simply bring your enthusiasm and
creativity. Art Club offers you access to all kinds of art
supplies that you may not have elsewhere. There are
so many forms of art to try, such as watercolour, acrylic, oil and clay. You may discover a new passion or
a hidden talent. We also bring treats for each class so you will never go hungry.
Art is a great way to relieve stress and help you focus. It is proven that art can improve academic
achievement, enhancing test scores, attitudes, social skills, and critical and creative thinking. Art is a
form of self expression and enables us to express without the use of words. Art Club is held every
Thursday from 2:30 pm to 4:00 pm in Mr. Puskas’ room. Make sure to tell and bring all your friends. We
hope to see you next Thursday!
REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD DATE
Emory MacKenzie
Aries (21 March – 20 April): Cute good morning texts
Taurus (21 April – 21 May): They share their good (they hate it though)
Gemini (22 May – 21 June): Letting you rant
Cancer (22 June – 22 July): They just say it
Leo (23 July – 22 August): Cuddles
Virgo (23 August – 23 September): They put you before themselves
Libra (24 September – 23 October): They are honest
Scorpio (24 October – 22 November): Unexpected kisses
Sagittarius (23 November – 21 December): They listen to you ramble (no complaints)
Capricorn (22 December – 20 January): They constantly remind you to “buckle up” and other little
things
Aquarius (21 January – 19 February): They treat you like a King/Queen
Pisces (20 February – March 20): Hugs
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THE ROYAL INQUIRER
EDITORIAL
Disillusioned with Canada’s Post-Secondary Education System
Kyle Stewart
I am a firm believer, as I’m sure many students are,
that post-secondary education should be free. I am
going to outline the arguments as to why postsecondary education should be guaranteed, by law.
Moral argument
The moral argument is straightforward.
Individuals should be able to fulfill their dreams
without barriers, such as debt. Canada cannot call
itself an egalitarian nation unless it decides to
allow each person to maximize their potential. As
it stands today, Canada’s playing-ground is slanted
towards those who can afford an education, while
those who cannot are made victims of
circumstances and of sheer bad luck. Today, a post
-secondary education has become a necessity to do
well in life. In the past, post-secondary education
was somewhat-more affordable, and was certainly
less required than it is today. People entering the
workforce with any post-secondary education can
be doomed to jobs they never wanted. Should
someone be cast aside by society, just because they
were not able to afford to go to school? I would
argue, that no—this should not be allowed. Canada
loves to pat itself on the back for being an “equal”
country. How can we call ourselves equal, when
the children of the wealthy are provided with
greater access to success than any other group?
The reality is, we cannot.
children’s post-secondary education. They have
recognised the value of an educated society, where
people can fulfill their dreams. A “smart society”
allows for incredible technological innovation,
youth empowerment, a greater understanding of
the past and present, and more. Furthermore, as
the costs of paying for education increase way
beyond the rate of inflation, it is necessary for
governments to intervene in the market.
Implementation
Yes, post-secondary education should be free. But
how could such a plan ever be implemented? First,
the rich must be taxed more than they are. Not
only rich people, but rich corporations as well. If
our government decided to crack-down on
offshore tax havens, we would have access to over
$170 billion! (Statistics Canada) But, our
governments would never do anything which
threatened the infinite wealth of corporations and
millionaires. But I think that the implementation of
free post-secondary education will be the easiest
part. The hardest part will be getting our
governments to open their ears to students, and
would-be students. Even under our shiny new
Liberal government, Justin Trudeau has prioritized
the wishes of Big Corporate by enabling a rapid
approval process for the Energy East pipeline, by
meeting with top oil executives within the first 100
days of taking office, by signing the TPP (a trade
Socioeconomic argument
deal which will cement Canada’s “innovation
The marginal social benefits of an educated
deficit,” and would seriously harm Canada’s
population are extensive. It is why our society pays agriculture and car-manufacturing sectors) (Note:
for elementary and secondary education. In the
While Canada signed the TPP, it did not yet ratify
long-run, it lowers crime, decreases mortality,
it… it isn’t in our law-books yet). On the backincrease quality of life, creates more jobs, and
burner are students… again. Don’t be fooled by
more. Having an educated society has so many
politicians’ taking-points. We can make change
benefits, that in the long-run free post-secondary happen! Vote (once you turn 18), express your
education pays for itself. Students at community
concerns to our government (at ANY age… You can
colleges are trained to enter the workforce in jobs easily search how to contact government officials
society needs. Students headed to university also and agencies), and organize! If you believe postfulfill gaps in the job market. Countries like
secondary education should be a right, you have a
Germany, Nordic countries, etc. are experiencing
moral obligation to fight for it!
economic booms and are paying for their
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THE OP-EDs
ISSUE #7
The best that The Royal Inquirer has to offer, every month!
ROYAL COUTURE: Dating Fashion
Grace Poole
Well, well, well looks like it's that time of year again! Valentines day. Now in the spirit of the season and
one of my most favourite holidays, I've chosen the lovely topic of dating and firsts dates to talk about this
month. Buckle up, so I can tell you how to look stunning on the first date.
Dress for the setting- simple enough right? If going to a coffee shop, you can keep it pretty laid back. A
movie? Maybe a little bit dressier? A museum? Be polished. Lots of people tend to over-think this and
overdress for the setting so ask yourself if you're going to look out of place. You are presenting yourself
to this person as potential mate, so be presentable, polished, and put together. Although when in doubt,
lean towards the fancier side. I mean would you rather be caught in your Jammies or an outfit of
Beyonce like glamour.
Hello boys!—To all the men out there, let me tell you that no matter what anyone says, your date will
always like you more if you are a good dresser. Society has this idea that men shouldn't try to groom
themselves or spend time on fashion but really, everyone likes someone that looks good. It's science.
Things you can do to be a better dresser for the fancier occasions are to have cool and matching socks (I
know that sounds really silly but a good sock pairing is one of the best and easiest things you can do. Try
a button up, and for those not so fancy dates, a plaid (not worn open). It's that "I've got my life together"
look that dates always look for.
Little tips - NEVER WEAR ANYTHING NEW ON THE FRIST DATE. Now I know that new shirt you bought
would be so perfect for this date, but trust me, for a situation that's this high risk you'll want to go with
an old reliable. Think about it. What if those jeans are super uncomfortable? What if you get pit stains in
that shirt? What if you didn't know it was see through? Call me a nervous nelly but you don't want
something like clothing problems to ruin your date.
Oh, and always be yourself. They want to go out with you, not a
character.
Happy dating this valentine’s days. And stay stylish, my friends!
February is EVAC’s Month!
EVAC Committee
February 24th is the official pink day across the nation, and is the
anniversary of the day that Travis Price and David Shepard started
their campaign to raise awareness about bullying. EVAC has
decided to make February a “positivity” month! During this month
we will be hopefully having different things going on around the
school, and really raising awareness of how important it is for everyone to be kind to each other. As part
of this month, we hope to bring the school closer together, and really get everyone involved as much as
we can. Hopefully, we will have great success.
We would also like to remind everyone that there is an EVAC room located in the old yoga room
(pictured above). This room is open during both lunches, has study stations, a fridge, a lounge area with
beanbag chairs and body pillows, and other things to help make it a comfortable environment. We
encourage people to go check it out and maybe spend a lunch in there!
As a committee we would also like to thank everyone who came out to the EVAC study hall and got some
studying done. We hope it helped with your exam stress!
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THE ROYAL INQUIRER
THE MONTH IN HISTORY
Austin MacPherson
1st, 1920: The R.C.M.P. is formed
2nd, 2014: The Seattle Seahawks win the Super Bowl,
almost 30 years since their last championship win
camp in a swamp to avoid the enemy, 905 Japanese soldiers are eaten by crocodiles over the next 2 days.
20th, 1975: Margaret Thatcher famously says “I can never see the day where a woman could ever be the Prime
3rd, 1916: The Canadian Parliament Buildings burn to
Minister.” 4 years later, she becomes Britain’s first fethe ground. Supposedly caused by a lit cigar thrown into
male Prime Minister and the longest serving British
a wastepaper basket. Only the library was saved.
Prime Minister
4th, 2012: Florence Green, the last surviving veteran of
21st, 1902: Harvey Cushing becomes the world’s first
World War I, dies at the age of 110
brain surgeon
5th, 1981: Largest Jell-O container was made. It held
22nd, 1903: Due to a drought, the U.S. side of Niagara
9246 gallons of watermelon flavored Jell-O
Falls stops flowing
6th, 1935: The board game Monopoly is sold for the first
23rd, 1894: The Montreal “AAA’s” win the first Stanley
time
Cup, after Ottawa and Toronto quit
7th, 1962: U.S. President John F. Kennedy enacts the Cu24th, 2008: Fidel Castro resigns as President of Cuba
ban Embargo, banning Cuban products from entering
25th, 1932: Adolf Hitler resigns his Austrian citizenship
the US. The Embargo is still in effect today.
and applies for German citizenship
8th, 1920: Women in Switzerland are denied the right to
vote. They aren’t given the right to vote until 1971
26th, 1936: Hitler unveils the Volkswagen Beetle in Berlin
9th, 2002: The 19th Winter Olympic Games open in Salt
Lake City, U.S.
27th, 1827: Mardi Gras is first celebrated in New Orleans
10th, 2005: After a mysterious earthquake is registered
in neighboring South Korea, North Korea reveals that it
detonated a nuclear bomb in a tunnel in the remote
countryside; It is their first nuclear weapon test, and
have tested 3 since.
28th, 2012: Scientists from Princeton reveal the discovery of a fossil of an ancient penguin, which stood at over
5 ½ feet tall
29th, 1979: Svend Robinson becomes the first openly
gay Member of Parliament in Canada. He serves in Par11th, 1990: Nelson Mandela, after being imprisoned for liament for 29 years, and was the MP that presented,
27 years in several prisons in South Africa, is freed
and later passed the Bill legalizing Same-Sex Marriage in
12th, 1908: New York to Paris Auto Race (via Alaska and 2005.
Siberia) begins in New York City. George Schuster wins
after racing for 88 days
13th, 1981: Longest sentence ever published in the New
York Times at 1286 words
14th, 1921: The Canadian Mint issues its first nickel
15th, 1903: The Teddy Bear is invented. Named after U.S.
President Theodore Roosevelt, who refused to shoot a
bear while on a hunting trip
16th, 1913: U.S. President William Howard Taft, at 360
pounds, becomes the first (and only) President to get
stuck in a White House bathtub
17th, 2014: Jimmy Fallon replaces Jay Leno as the host of
“The Tonight Show”
18th, 1901: The Vacuum Cleaner is patented
19th, 1945: After their commander decided to set up
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ISSUE #7
FEELING PUZZLED?! :/
Jastina Mahendrarajah
FEBRUARY
FLIRT
FLOWERS
CHOCOLATES
BOYFRIEND
CANDY
CARD
CARNATION
CHARMED
PARTY
PASSION
PINK
POEM
LOVE
LOVEBIRDS
LOVESICK
DATE
VALENTINE
AFFECTION
AFFECTIONATE
HEART
HEARTTHROB
Can You Spot the Six Differences? By Joey De Leebeeck
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THE ROYAL INQUIRER
A HISTORY OF AFRICAN HISTORY MONTH
Austin MacPherson
For 28 days during the month of February—or for this year in 29, North America and the United
Kingdom celebrate what has come to be known as Black History Month. It is a time of year for cultural
reflection, understanding, and observation of a group of society, with deep cultural and historical roots
in our country. Often it is asked by many “How did Black History Month come to be?”, “Who created it?”,
and “When did it begin” to name a few.
Interestingly enough, the very idea of a period dedicated to African American heritage was originally
proposed by Carter Woodson, a citizen of the United States. Having been a student at the University of
Chicago, and later Harvard during the 1910’s, he had experienced firsthand, the daily struggles of
systemic and societal racism. Also having received a PhD from Harvard (only the second African
American to do so), he understood the extent of the lack of literature and publications into the heritage
of African Americans. In order to counteract this, he decided to publish several pieces on African
American heritage from what literature he could find, alongside oral stories passed down through many
generations. By the 1920’s, he had joined the NAACP (the National Association for the Advancement of
Coloured People), and in 1926, he successfully created what he called “Negro History Week” while
residing in Washington D.C. This is seen as the direct predecessor for the modern Black History Month.
The goal of this month was to “educate people on the awareness of the African American, and to give
insight into the struggles that they have suffered” as quoted from one of his later autobiographical
works.
That explains how and why its predecessor began, now how exactly did it evolve to what we know
today? Originally when it began, this “Negro History Week” gained popularity in rural regions of
America. Because many African Americans lived in towns rather than cities, schoolhouses and churches
adopted interest in the idea of celebrating the history of African Americans. For nearly 50 years, the
practice of celebrating a week in February of African American history became something of a norm, but
with more literature, history, cultural events, and more becoming available to explain, engage and
experience, students at Kent State University saw the opportunity to expand, in order to be more
inclusive. And so, on July 4th, 1976, President Gerald Ford officially recognized on behalf of the United
States Government, an official “Black History Month”. He was quoted as saying shortly afterwards “I urge
Americans of every walk of life to seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected
accomplishments of black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history”. And so was
born the modern form of Black History Month. Over time, gradually, the experiences, history, and culture
of African Americans who have contributed to everyday society, gained widespread knowledge in the
United States. In 1995, Jean Augustine, Canada’s first female African Canadian Member of Parliament,
proposed that Canada adopt this as a way of adopting similar, effective experiences. And so less than a
month later, a resolution was passed unanimously by every Member of Parliament, officially recognizing
Black Heritage Month.
Canada has a very vibrant and proud history of African Canadians contributing to society. Ranging from
Ontario-born Elijah McCoy, the inventor of the portable ironing board, the lawn sprinkler, and the McCoy
Train Lubricator (from which spawned the phrase “The Real McCoy”) along with more than 50 other
inventions, to Truro-born Portia White, perhaps Canada’s best known opera singer, who performed for
many years in New York, France, Italy, Switzerland; even for a private audience with Queen Elizabeth II.
Last February, Nova Scotians celebrated the activism of Viola Desmond, a Nova Scotia hero, for her
decision to stand up to racism in a New Glasgow theatre. There is no shortage of African Canadians who
have contributed to society in a multitude of ways, and the many stories, of which, spanning centuries
and over half a dozen generations, retain their timeless value to the common heritage and progress of
mankind, and will continue to do so in the future.
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