The Cheetah Perspective - Charles P. Allen High School

“ News,
Views and Information from
Charles P. Allen High School ! ”
Charles P. Allen High School
196 Rocky Lake Road,
Bedford, N.S. B4A 2T6
Phone:
(902) 832-8964
The Cheetah Perspective
February 2005
“Strive
For Excellence”
Issue 6
Modesty Absent From Classroom Roll Call
Table Of Contents
An Anonymous Opinion
Put yourself in the following situation. You are a sixteen-year-old guy in
grade ten with good grades and a strong desire to learn. It is 12:40 pm, and you
are off to history class to study Ancient Greece. You are seated, when a fellow
female student walks over and sits right in front of you. You can’t help but notice
how high her skin-tight shirt is, exposing most of her back. Plus, her pants were
so low that her bright pink thong was extensively exposed. This is a normal thing
for you to see in most of your classes and you tell yourself not to pay any attention to it; however, it still distracts you from your note taking on Greek families.
This is one of the many daily situations that I was put through last year; and
likewise for most males in the school system. However, the truth is that you do
not have to be a sixteen-year-old student like me to experience this. I believe a
serious problem has arisen in our school system and it should be addressed. Adolescent women in the schools have the responsibility to dress in a relatively modest fashion, so as not to diminish the educational environment by their inappropriate dress.
First, teen girls are responsible to respect their male peers by not wearing
scanty clothing. A lot of girls fail to realize that their appearance can sexually
arouse men. If a girl is revealing more than necessary, the guy cannot help but be
uncomfortably distracted from his thought process while doing work. Many teen
guys are at that point in life where the hormones are raging. However, this does
not give an excuse for them to go out and sexually abuse a girl with skimpy clothing, since they, too, have a responsibility for their actions. However, what about
the girls responsibility? Most girls argue that their dress is a form of selfexpression and that they are entitled to that right. However, should their dress not
be considered a visual form of sexual harassment towards the guys? Moreover,
teamwork is promoted in class to achieve excellence. But the way some girls
dress today does not help guys with their studies! Therefore, the elimination of
sexual harassment is more important than dressing however you feel.
Second, these are not only problems for the male student body, but for the
teachers as well. A teacher-friend of mine once said that sometimes he cannot
even stand up in front of the class to face his provocatively dressed pupils. The
attire of some girls makes it hard for teachers to operate normally in class without
distractions; they cannot perform to their potential. Hence, this is a form of class
disruption. Therefore, teen girls wearing their scanty clothing should be as responsible as anyone else in the classroom for not distracting the teacher!
Finally, a girl in provocative dress should be responsible to herself for how
other people react to the way she is clothed. Some girls make it harder on themselves by dressing the way they do, because it attracts negative attention. For
Continued on Page 3
Modesty Crisis
Messages
We Are Listening
Where’d The Co Go?
Tsunami Update
Guidance
Amnesty International
Sports
Fitness
Dance Pants!
Grinding
Same-Sex Debate
CPA Style
The Learning Center
TCG Outlook
Horoscopes
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Up Coming Events
Recognition Night ........... March 1
Band Concert .................. March 3
March Break ............March 14-18
Art Trip.....................March 21-24
Good Friday .................. March 25
Easter Monday .............. March 28
Root Beer Fest ...............March 31
The Cheetah Perspective
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Welcome Back
“Strive For Excellence”
February 2005
Issue 6
Editors’ Message
Principal's Message
Hello again student type units. I hope you’re enjoying a heaping
spoon full of semester two. Or a Lovin’ Spoonful for those who appreciate older music.
I know I am, my classes taste like fried chicken, unless you don’t like
chicken, in that case they taste like soy product. The snow from our three
consecutive blizzards has almost melted away, much like our brains after
three or four exams. At least said blizzards bought us extra study time.
You guys did use it to study right… Right? Oh never mind.
We have some pretty good articles this month, and if you read our
cover story you already have an idea of the hoo-hah we’re stirring up this
month. Everything from modesty, to grinding, to dance pants to the third
month in a row we feature Mr. B working out. Though I know that’s a
different sort of excitement. The non-existent kind… unless you like
weight training.
Speaking of Mr. B I have to make an apology. Last month I typed:
“wicked remorseful” instead of: “wicked resourceful” under the picture
of him weight training. I was supposed to put “wicked remorseful” under
the picture of him teaching his Canadian Literature class.
Well, I have to go get my custom golf balls printed for when I tee off
with Ol’ Jean later with the rest of the hierarchy.
Students and staff have settled into Semester Two and we are looking
forward to the next few months as the excitement builds toward several major events.
Regards,
Dan Rodgers (and Keirsten Reilly)
The Cheetah Perspective
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RECOGNITION EVENING
A very special evening for the recognition of student performance
will be held in the gymnasium on March 1 at 7 p.m. Mengie Shulman awards will also be presented at this ceremony. You will not
want to miss this celebration of excellence and the Ice Cream Social
to follow. Staff will be contacting parents of students who have
qualified.
REGISTRATION INFORMATION
Once again we are in the process of determining enrollments for the
school year 2005-06. Very important decisions about staffing and
availability of certain programs are based on spring enrollment numbers as of March 1.
Please refer to the front page of our web-site www.cpa.ednet.ns.ca
for important information on Student Registration. Families planning to move into or out of the area served by our school should
check on the Out of Area Transfer Request Protocol. These requests
will be accepted by the receiving school starting on April 1 for September enrollment.
More Messages
“Strive For Excellence”
February 2005
Issue 6
Modesty Con’t
example, when a girl is doing a presentation at the front of the class in a halter top and low rise pants, it is almost guaranteed
that some guy (or guys) will be gawking at her figure, rather than the poster that she is holding. Girls complain about being
viewed as sex objects. Well, maybe they should look in the mirror sometime and see how they can minimize the problem
themselves. Truly, they need to understand why they are being viewed this way, and fix it themselves if they are offended
by the male reactions.
In conclusion, it is imperative that we do not let this problem be ignored anymore. It is very unfair for the guys to be
forced into an educational environment where they are subjected to this distraction. Likewise, it is not fair for the girls to
subject themselves to the reactions that the guys make, which might upset them. If girls do not take enough responsibility in
the way they dress, we might as well label our class doors like we do on TV: WARNING: this classroom contains explicit
content. Viewer discretion is impossible!
Principal's Message Con’t
PARENT-TEACHER VISITATION
The first of two parent/teacher visitations for Semester Two will
occur on Thursday, April 7 from 1:30-3:30. Please note the
change from the date in the student calendar of April 6 to April 7.
As this is quite early in term two, no term marks will be available
at this time. Parents who have been contacted by teachers or administration are expected to attend this early meeting. As well,
any parents who have early semester concerns are certainly invited to attend. The second parent/teacher visitation will occur on
Tuesday, April 19 from 6:00pm-9:00 pm. This will be the same
day that Semester 2, Term 1 report cards will be distributed to
students. All parents/guardians are invited to attend. Please be
reminded of the 5 minute meeting limit with teachers. We are
anticipating a large crowd as there is no afternoon visitation on
the 19th, only evening.
FINE ARTS INFORMATION
Plan now to attend upcoming performances by our Department of
Fine Arts. The next Band concert will be held in the gymnasium
on March 3 at 7 p.m. Visual Arts will be on the road with their
Arts Tour of Toronto over March Break.
PARENT ORIENTATION TO COURSE SELECTION
MEETING DATES
Administrators, guidance councilors, and curriculum coordinators
will be presenting program and course selection information in
the library at C. P. Allen following this schedule:
1. Feb. 22- Bedford Junior High and Bedford South Current Grade 9 Parents, 7-9 p.m.
2. Feb. 24- Madeline Symonds Middle School Current
Grade 9 Parents, 7-9 p.m.
3. March 8- Current Grade 10 and 11 Parents, 7-9 p.m.
As you know, the course selections made at this time of year will
have great impact on our staffing requirements. It is very important that parents and students review academic calendars of postsecondary institutions to be aware of entrance requirements so
that appropriate planning for three years of course selections can
be started now.
COURSE SELECTION IN MATHEMATICS
It has come to our attention that many students and parents may
have the false impression that they cannot attend university if
they choose Foundations math. This is not the case. Many arts
related programs do not require either Foundations Mathematics
or Academic Mathematics. Foundations Mathematics courses are
NOT intended for students interested in pursuing math, science or
business programs however. These areas of study require Academic Math. Consult with post secondary academic calendars to
determine specific mathematic admission requirements. If you
have any questions, please speak to guidance councilors Kathy
Armstrong (A-K) and Steve Ferguson (L-Z).
CPA MUSICAL-LES MISERABLES
You will not want to miss this tremendous production of Les
Misérables now being staged by Acting Director Ms. Dompierre
and Musical Director Mr. Beeler with a most talented cast of performers, pit band and stage crew. Please pencil in these dates on
your calendar right now and plan to attend: May 2, 3, 4.
-Jeff Lewis
Principal
UTTERLY OFFENDED? TELL US ABOUT IT.
We know that everyone on this planet has an opinion, especially considering this month’s opinion-heavy front page story. Maybe you
don’t agree with the statement our unseen friend put forward. In that case, write an article in response telling us why you think we’re full
of hoo-hah or artificial hoo-hah replacement Of course, maybe a certain teacher that rhymes with the treaty organization he teaches has
given you a bazillion page essay and you don’t have time to write a full blown article. In that case just send your 200-word max soap
box rants to:
CPA_NEWS@STUDENT.EDNET.NS.CA
The Cheetah Perspective
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Student Council
“Strive For Excellence”
February 2005
We Are Listening
Issue 6
Where’d The “Co” Go?
By Her Supreme Highness Jessica Ford
By Her Empirical Awesomeness Kathleen Healy
As your students’ council co-president, I am often
torn between my responsibility to represent the students as
well as obey the authority of the administration. This is what
led to the assembly that was held a few weeks ago. It was an
opportunity for everyone in the student body to hear of new
policies through the rational and understandable voice of fellow students. I was very impressed with the outpouring of
opinions that were expressed in the surveys. There were a few
comments that I would like to mention that particularly raised
my interest.
There were suggestions that we should do activities
that students want and not just what we want. That is a very
good point, because yes, we are the students’ council. We like
to say that we are a very diverse council, made up of many
different opinions within the school. However, could you disagree with the fact that the surveys put out were a chance to
tell us what you want? Student council meetings are an open
forum. They are held every Tuesday morning at 7:45, and if
you feel that we are not doing activities that appeal to you, you
are more than welcome to come. For a more informal meeting,
just approach any council member. To find one that represents
you, or a complete list, visit the council office.
People also want us to lower the cost of activities.
Each activity we run, costs a set amount of money. Regular
dances themselves can cost up to $2000. The price you pay
goes hand in hand with attendance. If more people go to the
evening activities, the price can be lowered. Wednesday activities and special giveaways are there for your enjoyment.
There is no charge to go see C.P.A. Idol or the Polar Bear
Swim and the cost of events does add up.
Another comment was that we should keep dances
because other schools do. Chris and I talk to dozens of students’ council presidents from all across Canada. The truth is,
many schools are resorting to other evening events such as
coffeehouses and movie nights. This is due to the lack of attendance by both teachers and students. D.J. businesses are
going under because the market is slimming. At Nova Scotian
schools, including our own, the frequency of dances has decreased. They are all dealing with the same issues that we are.
I appreciate all the comments we received, and we’ll
be sure to keep the surveys coming. For all the statistics collected from the surveys visit the students’ council office. I
hope that I cleared up any misconceptions. It is important that
you all know how hard we work for you and how much we
stand up for what you want. You all have a great year, and you
know where I am if you need me.
I’m sure we have all heard just about as much as we
can take about the gender-segregated grinding assemblies,
but I still have an ax to grind. (Pun definitely intended).
This has nothing to do with the aforementioned “mating
ritual”, because I personally don’t care where you put your
butt—though I do respect the gross-out factor the teachers
have to experience. My problem comes from the seeming
lack of respect for our “co-presidents”.
Considering that I am female, I was not privy to the
goings-on at the boy’s assembly, though from what I can
gather, Jessica Ford (that’s Co-President Jessica Ford) did
not speak. Whoop-de-do, right? Well at the girl’s assembly
she did speak and this is where things get problematic.
Chew on this except from our assembly: “And now we’ll
hear from our President of the Student’s Council, Chris
Green.” I’m sorry, but I was under the impression that we
had two presidents here. I certainly voted for two; BOTH of
whom have made this year seriously rock, with their awesome council behind them. The problem continues when
Jessica is introduced. “And now, Jessica Ford.” What was
that? No, “President Jessica Ford”? Why doesn’t she get
treated with the same respect Chris does?
I do not blame anyone on the council; I blame the student body, administration included. If by chance, Mr. Lewis
was unaware of the way our Student Council works, with
two Presidents, why didn’t one of the teachers or the students correct him?
We have two Presidents, CPA, count ‘em, two! You
don’t need to be Mr. Lyne or Mr. Aucoin to figure this one
out. And these TWO (2, II, the square root of four, you get
my drift) student leaders have done such an amazing job
that it is just plain disrespectful to not validate their hard
work with the titles they have earned. Very, very few people like anything about school other than the social factor
and I think that the grade elevens and twelves can attest to
how much more enjoyable this year has been. And we can
thank the people who have brought this to us. Grab a pen
and jot this down children-
The Cheetah Perspective
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Thank you Co-Presidents Jessica Ford
and Chris Green,
and your wonderful council.
In The School
“Strive For Excellence”
February 2005
Tsunami Update
By Melody Lotfi
It’s been two months since the horrific Tsunami hit the Pacific
coast into Asia and Africa. Over 280,000 people were killed and
survivors have had to live with the aftermath of the torn buildings, suppressed land, and the lack of food and clean water. Fortunately, organizations and governments from all over the world
sent monetary and medical aid as quickly as possible.
Thanks to devoted staff and students, C.P.A was able to help
with tsunami relief. Almost immediately after news of the disaster broke, a group was created at our school that held a “Strive for
Five” campaign. It went on for two weeks in January, and it was
hoped that the fund would reach a maximum of $5000. A plan
was setup to create new ways to raise money for those suffering
in Africa and Asia.
The fund grew as students and staff donated money to their
homerooms, at school events and by buying candy and ribbons.
The campaign was a success, thanks to the students and staff that
fully understood the gravity of the situation halfway across the
world.
The fund exceeded the $5000 goal that our school had intended. Instead, we raised $5770. The money was given to the
Red Cross, who continue to help with monetary and emotional
support for the survivors. C.P.A. will surely remember the selfless act they’ve performed to help those who would otherwise be
unknown to us.
Issue 6
Guidance News
APPLICATION TIME IS HERE!! Pick up your applications and
sign up for transcripts in the guidance office. If you have any
questions, please see Ms Armstrong or Mr Ferguson.
GRADUATION FEES….are now due. $50 payable to the main
office. If you haven’t paid your fees we will assume that you will
not be participating in grad ceremonies!
COURSE SELECTION FOR SEPT 2005 In early March there
will be presentations in class about your course selection for next
year. There will be a parent meeting on March 8th in the cafeteria
to answer any questions that your parents may have.
AWARDS NIGHT This will be held March 1st in the gym for all
students who have attained honour status. Mengie Schulman
awards will also be handed out that night followed by an ice
cream social in the cafeteria.
SCHOLARSHIPS/BURSARIES Please check the wall outside
guidance for new scholarships/bursaries. Get your CPA awards
applications in guidance!
UPCOMING VISITS:
NSCAD Feb 17th lunch, St FX Feb 22nd,
IW Akerley (NSCC) Open house Feb 22nd, Trip to Mt Allison
Feb 25th
Amnesty International: Spreading Amnesty Internationally
By Jessica Ford
With recent global events leaving many people in our world community helpless, people within C. P. Allen High School have looked
to themselves to see what they can do to benefit the needy. We successfully raised $5770 for tsunami relief, but unfortunately, the generosity cannot stop there.
If you want to find someplace where your voice can be your best tool in helping the disadvantaged, you need to look no further than
room 213. Currently, there is a group of students who are working, over and above their course load, to help bring injustices to light.
They work side by side with a human rights organisation called Amnesty International.
From their beginning in 1961, Amnesty International has successfully enforced justice by ensuring that human rights are maintained
for all people, regardless of their race, religion or gender. Amnesty International is a worldwide movement of people who campaign for
internationally recognized human liberties. Their goal is to ensure that citizens of the world are protected under the universal declaration
of human rights. They seek out injustices and aim to correct them. Some familiar faces in the 1.5 million members include Blink 182,
Ryan Adams, Coldplay, Bright Eyes, Dashboard Confessional, Foo Fighters, The Hives, Alanis Morissette, Paul McCartney, Missy Elliot and No Doubt.
Three year Amnesty International member, and current co-chair, Alyse Hand says, “It's horrible that so many people in the world
continue to have their rights violated on a daily basis. Groups like AI, give anyone the opportunity to voice their opinions in a powerful
way, through letters, petitions, and protests. Without Amnesty International, and other groups that work to help protect the basic human
rights of others, millions of people would not have the rights that they have today”. The Charles P. Allen group takes up important case
files from across the world. They write letters to government officials, making them aware of the unfairness. Currently they are dealing
with stopping child executions in Iran, by writing to the Iranian Minister of Justice.
For more information on Amnesty International at your school and abroad, go to www.amnesty.org or take action by attending a
meeting.
The Cheetah Perspective
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Sports
“Strive For Excellence”
February 2005
Issue 6
Athletic Director’s Report
The basketball and hockey seasons are nearing their completion. Play-off results and season summaries will be posted in the next
newsletter. The teams have experienced a busy season with league games and exhibition tournaments. Our girl’s and boy’s hockey
teams both went to NFLD for a tournament. Rumour has it they had a great time. The highlight for the boy’s basketball team was
their participation in the prestigious Coal Bowl Basketball Tournament held in Cape Breton. The results are posted on the school
web page. In fact, the schedules and the results for all the teams are posted on the school web page.
Our newest addition to the extensive CPA athletics program is the CPA snowboarding team. Thanks to the efforts of Mr. Mac
Duff, students from C.P. Allen participated in the first ever high school snowboarding competition. The boy’s team advanced to the
provincial championships. Wow, what a start to snowboarding. More news about the snowboarding events and results will be featured in the next newsletter. Mr. Mac Duff is also responsible for reviving the CPA ski team. Competitions are taking place at Martock and Wentworth during February and March. Results will be posted on the school web page.
The indoor field hockey team, defending league champions, is in the process of being selected. The coaches are very excited
about the prospects. The league will begin the first week of March.
The Cheerleading team is in their final preparation stages. Their first meet is scheduled for February 25th. Good luck team.
The badminton club will pick up momentum as they move towards the team selection. High school badminton competitions begin in April. Mr. Aucoin and Madame Comeau-Livingston would like to have any students interested in badminton come out to the
training sessions.
The boy’s curling team consisting of Jono Mac Neil, Mark Cahill, Pat Dean, Ryan Norwood and Spencer Doue are participating
in the Metro/Regional Curling Championships at the Mayflower Curling Club on February 14th and 15th. The top two teams will advance to the NSSAF Provincial Curling Championships in Bridgewater on March 31st, April 1s and 2nd.
The rugby teams will begin their training sessions in the gym the first week of March. Coach Connors for the boy’s team and
coach Mac Duff for the girl’s team are looking forward to high spirited, energetic players trying out.
As you can see, the CPA teams are thriving and continue to be strong competitors in the high school sporting scene. I can assure
you that watching our athletes in action is a wonderful experience. I encourage you to come out and support our teams.
Girls B Basketball
The Girl’s “B” Basketball team’s seasons is almost over. The
girls were able to finish regular season play with a 8-2 record,
enough for second in the league. In the semi-finals the girl’s lost
to Eastern Shore who will go on to play for the league championship.
The girls had a great season, going to Baddeck and finishing
in second place to Baddeck. In Baddeck Justine Finlayson was
named to the all-star team In their own tournament the Cheetahs
finished first in their division and lost in the championship to
Baddeck. At the Cheetah’s tournament Justine Finlayson was on
the all-star team and Jayne Dempsey was named, “Most Sportsmanlike Player.”
This was a great season for the girls with only 2 returning
players. The new grade 10s really stepped up and played with a
lot of maturity. The grade 10 players Justine Finalyson, Rebecca
Randell, Vanessa Arsenault, Rachel Steeves, Jayne Dempsey and
Suzanne Lewis all adjusted easily to high school basketball and
play a crucial role on the team. The grade 11 players Kara Brison,
Megan Kenny, Karmen Pipes, Michelle Balcom also were huge
for the team. The experience the grade 11s brought was substantial for this young team. Only two players will be graduating from
the team, those girls are Jessica Baker and Allison MacPherson
who both brought a great amount of leadership to the team in
their role as captains. The girls will be missed next year.
The Cheetah Perspective
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Picture Time!
The Girl’s B Basket Ball Team.
I pretend the B stands for Bwesome
I also pretend awesome is spelled with a “b.”
What can I say. I’m out of touch with reality
Fitness
“Strive For Excellence”
February 2005
Issue 6
Body Break! With Mr. B
By Hal Johnson and Jo… oh wait… Mr. B
Of all the gym related questions most often heard at CPA “how much can you bench?” is the king. I understand why, since our culture does put a lot of emphasis on pectoral development. This is more of an ego thing,
since chest development is actually not as important for most sports as back and leg development. The main
functions of the chest are to push and to pull in a circular motion. The following exercises will help you in
reaching your full potential.
Bench Press- this has been explained in a previous issue, but it still is the king of
chest exercises. Variations on the barbell press are dumbbell press and incline press.
Incline Press: barbell or dumbbell. This exercise is mainly for developing the upper
part of your chest. With an incline bench you would use either a barbell or dumbbells
and the movement will be very similar to a regular bench press, up and out. Your body
will find its natural groove, but watch that you do not drift too far forward with the bar
or bells. As well, this exercise is more challenging than a regular bench press, so you
will use less weight.
Wide grip dips- This exercise is used to develop the lower pectoral muscles. You do need a
dip bar and you lower yourself down and explode back up. Another variation is the decline
press on a machine or a decline bench. Next year’s CPA weight room should have these items.
Flys- This exercise is designed to use the hugging motion of the chest. Pick two dumbbells, lie
on a flat bench, and pretend that you are hugging a tree. You start with the weights facing each
other and your palms together, then arc your hands away from each other until you feel a deep
stretch in your pectorals. At this point, you arc your hands back up to the starting position like
you were hugging the tree!
Dip Picture
far too sexy to
be included.
Sorry Ladies.
Weight Room update… We have moved the weight room to room 305. Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays are
going to be after school workout times, and Mr. Lewis is looking into having the room open during some blocks
for grade twelve students. I know it has been frustrating, but we are getting there. Rome wasn’t built in a day and
neither was Arnold… or is that AHHH-Nuldd!
Dance 2005
By Anne Marie Lang
Well, our second annual dance recital was a great success,
despite a “few bumps in the road,” as Kristina Power would put
it! It was enjoyed by many, but mostly by those involved. Fortunately, there were no breakdowns or quitters.
The jazz sequence was a blast, and I heard some great
feedback, such as “It was fun to watch.” A big thanks goes out to
Vlada Tabachuk for taking the time to fabricate and supply the
costumes for the Jazz and the Ukrainian Dance. Oh, that brings
me to the cultural dances which were, undoubtedly, amazing! The
dances included gumboot, Ukrainian, Medieval, Scottish and
Line dancing, which I heard were very interesting to watch. The
small group choreographies were also big hits.
Then there were the “open dances” which were the highlight of the show. The contemporary piece was performed by
Kristin Sutherland; the lyrical freestyle battle, done to “1,2 step”
by Ciara, (Thanks to everyone who inspired my to really “come
out of my shell.”); the ballroom dancing, by Tomasa Rulka and
VladaTabachuk; and last, but not least, was the modern dance
expressing memorable events in our lives. The dance was inspired by the group Mocean Dance. The finale of the show was
the dance choreographed by none other than Jake Evens, done to
“Goodies” by Ciara. Everyone did a great job performing.
Special thanks go out to Shannon Sager and Jessica
Jenson, who were our excellent M.C.s; great job, girls! Kristin
Power who voluntarily typed up our outline, otherwise, we’d be
lost; Vlada Tadachuk for the great costumes and choreography;
guest instructors Jake Evans, Kim Butler, Mocean dance, Veronique Mackenzie-Bourne and Ms. Walker, our dance teacher, for
making it happen.
Great job everyone. It was a pleasure learning the different
dance styles that people are into these days. Hope to see you all
next semester. Remember everyone…
Dance the night away!
The Cheetah Perspective
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Issues
“Strive For Excellence”
February 2005
Grinding: The Epidemic
By Chhristophe Dupuy
Grinding. This is an issue in which our administration has
decided to take the bull by the horns. They even had an assembly about it. (Much like last year. And the year before. I
could go on.) Which took place on the first day of the second
semester, in hopes of getting what can be considered a fresh
start.
The event starts out with the introduction of our very own
CO-President, (and I stress the CO) Chris Green. He then proceeded with a comical take on things: a slideshow featuring
animals doing what they do best, increasing their numbers.
This was a good icebreaker to jump into the topic at large.
Mike Gerrow brought out the big guns. He was well prepared and spoke very frankly about the issue; he used what
some might call “crass” language to get his point across This
helped keep the audience from letting their minds wander and
kept their attention lock onto what he had to say. He described grinding as getting out of hand, and asked if we would
want our parents there and if they would feel comfortable
watching all that.
Bryce Taylor also had his time with the floor and is quoted
as “going to dances and getting his grind on.” His overall
point was that grinding doesn’t have to be eliminated completely, just significantly dialed back.
The general opinion of those I spoke with about the issue
was the same as Bryce’s. The thought is that grinding shouldn’t be halted completely, but it does really need to get dialed
back. People don’t want to see people doing it to the extent
that it could be considered something that, if photographed,
would come in a paper bag, but no one seems to want to give
it up themselves. One person said that they “don’t mind it if
people are just into the music”, but they don’t enjoy it when it
is an “obvious cry for attention.”
It seems that with this assembly, the administration wants
to raise awareness about their distaste for grinding, and that
dances can still be fun without it. In order to discourage people from grinding, the school is now offering dance classes,
which was touched upon at the assembly, along with making
an appearance on the referendum that was passed around afterward to check the opinions of the student body. Listen to
announcements for more details concerning the time and
price.
Personally, I couldn’t care less what people do; it’s none
of my business anyhow, although some people may be uncomfortable with what they see with regard to our school
dances. It isn’t necessary to see people going at it like a couple of randy caribou in the middle of the gym, there are places
for that kind of activity, and school isn’t one of them. If the
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Issue 6
only reason you go to dances is to grind away with as many
people as you can, then maybe you should take your pleasure
elsewhere. Music with a heavy bass-line isn’t an invitation to
start dry humping in front of all your peers and teachers.
Think of it this way, if you can’t do it in the halls, don’t do it
at dances. It’s that simple.
On the other side of things, if you think that this assembly
was just giving you trouble, and you should get to do what
you want, you should keep in mind that you don’t make the
rules, and if you persist in engaging in such activities then
you risk losing school dances as a whole for the rest of the
year.
To grind, or not to grind does not matter. It’s nice to see our
student council working together to get us out of class and
give us a laugh, while still getting their point across. Lets see
more of this.
Canada’s Same-Sex Marriage Debate
By Master Photographer Corey MacDonald
The right to be legally recognized as a couple is something gay and lesbian rights activists have been fighting to
gain for years. The issue of same sex marriage has been debated in many countries, including Canada. Two nations have
already legalized same-sex marriage and others including
Canada are considering it as well.
The issue that most people have trouble with is the redefinition of marriage. For many, marriage is defined as a union between a man and a woman. The Canadian Charter of
Rights and Freedoms, protects against discrimination based
on gender, race, ethnicity background, disability or sexual orientation. This means that our traditional definition of marriage is unconstitutional because it discriminates against gays
and lesbians. As a result, the Supreme Court of Canada and
many Provincial Supreme Courts have ruled that this traditional definition is unconstitutional.
Prior to 1968, Gay and Lesbian citizens had very few
rights in Canada. In fact, if you were openly gay, you could
be arrested and sent to prison as a sexual offender. You could
also be designated a dangerous offender and be kept in jail
indefinitely. Homosexuality was considered a mental illness
and deviant behaviour. When Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau
changed the law in 1968 and uttered the words, “the state has
no business in the bedrooms of the nation”, he opened the
door to a debate that continues to this date. It provided the
first step for gays and lesbians acquire equal rights and become more politically active.
One of our countries best known gay rights activists is
Issues, I Know I Have Them
February 2005
“Strive For Excellence”
Issue 6
Same-Sex Debate Con’t
Svend Robinson. He is a Member of Parliament for British
Columbia and a political voice for the gay and lesbian communities. He has able to voice their concerns nationally in the
House of Commons and has shown the rest of Canada that
gays and lesbians are just people, living and working like anyone else.
Until 2003, Canada had a hate crimes law that did not
cover crimes against sexual orientation. Svend Robinson
drafted an amendment to that law that it now protects against
sex-based hate crimes.
Those people who cherish traditional values believe that
government should not try and change the definition of marriage. Many religions view homosexuality as a sin and those
who partake in it as immoral. They further believe that by
providing homosexuals the right to marry goes against biblical teachings and will further erode moral values. Clergy are
concerned that if marriage is legally redefined, that they will
be forced to marry homosexuals against their religious beliefs.
Not only do they not like the idea of homosexuals and same
sex marriage, they also do not believe in children being made
aware of the fact that there are homosexuals or lesbians out
there in the world. The Church does not believe that the government should change the legal definition of marriage, and if
it is changed, they feel that the government does not the right
to force them to go against their religious and moral code.
I believe that gays and lesbians should be given the same
rights and freedoms as all Canadians. This includes the right
to be legally married. They are Canadian citizens; sexual orientation should have nothing to do with their rights. A person
should be able to marry the person they want to. The fact that
two people are saying they love and respect each other and
want to legally declare this should be celebrated, not demonized. If they are given the right to legally marry, it will help
Canada become a better country. By showing it is willing to
accept people with differences not considered traditional, it
says to the rest of the world that Canada is a forward thinking
country.
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The School, Events Happen Here You Know
“Strive For Excellence”
February 2005
The Learning Center and G.O.A.L.
Issue 6
Game Mastah’s TCG Outlook
By Alyse Hand
By Andrew McWatch
On February 26th 2005, students from the Learning center will be
attending G.O.A.L., Great Opportunities for Achievements and
Learning, a daylong conference being held at Ecole de Carrefour.
The twelve students attending from C.P.A. will be engaging in a
variety ofactivities that will involve leadership, teamwork and
personal growth. As well, the students will have the oppurtunity
to meet and interact with other high school students from all over
Nova Scotia. This will be the first ever Special Needs Conference
held in our province. The students from the learning center are
looking forward to the experiences they will have and the friends
they will meet at G.O.A.L. 2005!
Hello, and welcome to Game Master’s TCG Outlook. I will be
informing some of the TCG card players and/or collectors about
the upcoming sets and card expansions for Magic: The Gathering,
and Yu-Gi-Oh.
CPA Style
By Sarah Livingstone
Spring is in people and new fashions are popping up
in stores everywhere! Read on to find out what’s blooming
now.
The Tribal/Ethnic look is very hot right now. That
doesn’t mean you should go survivor grungy, but try out colours like golds and deep greens. If you don’t think you can pull
those colours off, then purchase some wooden jewellery like a
wood cuff. Other jewellery that will help you achieve this look
is beaded pieces such as a beaded layered necklace. A hot pair
of animal print ballet flats can make an outfit go a long way.
Reptiles have slithered there way into our hands;
snakeskin bags are a very popular accessory right now.
An apple a day keeps the doctor away and also makes
you a fashionable girl, even Louis Vuitton has designed a bag
complete with apple print. This bag might become the new hit
at CPA.
The Romans may have lived thousands of years ago
but their gladiator style sandals have made a come back! Stars
such as Kate Moss and Naomi Campbell have been spotted
sporting the latest in footwear
Those are only a few things that are “in” right now; if you want
more details or maybe visuals, check out magazines like In
Style, Cosmopolitan or Teen Vogue.
CPA has 30-40%
more chillin’ than any
other school in the
area.
That I know about at
least.
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YU-GI-OH: Trading Card Game News:
Yata-Garasu Common? The rumors are true. In Dark Beginning
2, the 2nd expansion to the Dark Beginning expansion, YataGarasu, the Secret Rare card from Legacy of Darkness, with the
infamous “Yata-Lock” is now becoming more common.
Flaming Eternity Sneak Preview:
The newest set to be released in March of this year is going to
have a Sneak Preview, the same that Rise of Destiny had when it
was released. This time, when you enter, any participants of the
event will receive an excusive “Cyber Harpie Lady” card just for
showing up to the event. This preview will allow players to use
the newest and latest of cards that will appear in the set including
the highly anticipated “Sacred Phoenix of Nephthys”, “Gearfried
the Swordmaster”, and “Granmada the Rock Monarch”. The set
will also include new Beast-Type monsters, EARTH monsters,
and two new Fusion Cards; “Gatling Dragon”, and “Lord of Dragoon”.
MAGIC: THE GATHERING-Betrayal of Kamigawa Released
The newest set in Magic: the Gathering, Betrayal of Kamigawa,
has just been released. This set includes a special “Fat Pack” for
collectors and players of the game. There are brand new Kamigawa cards, like “Kami of the Honored Dead”, which allows you
to gain life every time “Kami of the Honored Dead” is dealt damage, and “Kami of the Tattered Shoji”, which allows him to receive the Flying Ability whenever a Spirit or Arcane spell is activated. There are also 4 new Theme Decks released, “Dark Devotion”, “Ninjitsu”, “Rat’s Nest”, and “Spiritcraft”. Be sure to go to
your local gaming store to look for the new “Betrayal of Kamigawa set.
Andrew writes these articles and draws these cartoons
This Page is Part of a Balanced Breakfast
February 2005
“Strive For Excellence”
Issue 6
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The Last Page
“Strive For Excellence”
February 2005
Issue 6
Horoscopes
By Meghan Loch
Pisces-- Birthday Fish! Apparently, you like water. That’s a great thing, since you need it to stay alive; in fact, experts agree that you
need at least eight glasses of it a day. Don’t blame me if you have to pee in the middle of your birthday celebrations. Love, this month,
should be primarily directed at you. It’s your month, after all.
Aries--Has it ever occurred to you to change things about yourself? You know, your love life, your underpants, your personality, the sort
of things that matter? Actually, if you change just one of those things, you may see an improvement anyway. Think about it. This is the
month of love. Nobody loves people who smell funny.
Taurus—You never guessed it, but every Gemini in the world is madly in love with you. Why, I’ll never know. But watch out. They
can be two-faced. Wait outside a Gemini’s house with flowers. Surprising relationships could develop!
Gemini—Yeah, I’ll bet you never knew that every Taurus in the world hates your guts and is secretly plotting your downfall. But if
you’re nice to their face, you may just be able get along fine. That is, it they’re not already lying in wait for you now. Watch out for that.
Cancer—Although you’re named after a disease, you’re the thing that everybody wants this month. The thing is, they want you for your
homework advice, not your love. But hey, look on the bright side! It could mean a booming business for you, and with the proceeds, you
can buy all he love you want! Who said money can’t buy friends?
Leo-- Consider this: you’re the symbol of the lion. Brave, proud, hairy, and the adorably exploitable source of most of Disney’s annual
income. Too bad you’re going to a school where the mascot is a cheetah. Loser. [No wonder you feel slightly out of place.]
Libra-- That’s right. Love is in the air this month and you can feel it. Just make sure you remember to use protection, and of course I’m
talking about air-bourn pollutants. Love’s not the only thing around you this month, though. Listen, I’m being paid big money by his
agents not to tell you this, but what the heck? Johnny Depp has been stalking you, so you should be flattered. You should be even more
flattered to know that it’s not some kind of press thing; he just thinks you’re hot. Johnny and chocolat should be arriving at your door
any day now. Wait with baited breath and skimpy underclothes.
Scorpio—Love is in the-oh, wait, I used that one already. So that means the stars are telling you AVOID RUSSIAN PEOPLE. Because
socialism is also in the air, and it’s catching. You don’t want to be social with the Russians, do you?
Sagittarius-- You think you’re racking up some kind of karma points for being so nice, don’t you? Well, the word is out from here to
Nirvana* that you’re a sucker. So just wait: you’re going to get re-incarnated as a cockroach, instead of somebody else, just because they
ask to trade; because you’re too nice. Really, just let yourself go and kill those people who are metaphorically stepping on you-if you
don’t, you may actually end up getting stepped on. And that would suck.
Capricorn—People are expecting great things out of you now, more than what you’re expecting of yourself: like breathing and moving.
Within these exacting parameters, however. there lies a great potential for not achieving anything at all! Inversely disappoint the people
who love you by proving them wrong and make something of yourself.
Aquarius—You’re always last—in love, and in the horoscopes. In life, you watch everybody get the good stuff before you, and in the
star predictions, you read all the good stuff about everyone else before you come to your own. It’s always going to be that way, Aquarius. At least you got a song and an age out of it. But wait—we’re done with that, too.
*Disclaimer: I love the Buddhist philosophies and this is for humorous purposes only. Besides, unless you’re an authentic, well-informed practitioner of the Buddhist religion, please do not tell me I’ve offended you.
Cheetah Perspective Back Issues (Even the ones you don’t want) are available Online!
http://www.cpa.ednet.ns.ca/newspaper.html
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