It'd been twelve weeks of empty lecture halls, silent corridors and abandoned text books. But the 45,000 kids who's education was put on hold can finally breath a sigh of relief today, in class that is.
It was November 6 that TA's, contract faculty and graduate assistants went on strike and after repeatedly failed attempts at coming to an agreement the McGuinty government vowed to put an end to it. The legislation passed a 'back-to-work' bill on January 29 abruptly ending the 85 day old strike.
Unfortunately, had the government not intervened (they should have intervened sooner) the school year might have been lost. It's the students first day back and amid the anger, frustration and disgust by all the parties involved, the only one's that truly suffered throughout this mess were the kids.
Some went as far as to transfer out of York and continue their education elsewhere as not to lose the rest of the school year, while last year students faced the problem of delaying their graduation. Those that rely on summer jobs to pay their tuition this fall were left out in the cold. Most recently the Federation of Students has asked York for a 12% refund on tuition with the shortened school year.
As for CUPE, the actions of the union (I'll call them delay tactics) are an entirely another story. They've turned education into nothing more than a bargaining chip (with students as the hostages) fueled by what some have called 'greed'.
Now let's look at the big picture here and the domino affect it's caused. Aside from York's credibility being damaged with the strike, it affected new registrations with a deadline of January 12. The numbers are down by more than 15% from last year. Their demands are nothing short of what everyone wants with their own employers. We all want benefits and increased job security (I mean who doesn't?) but with the economy the way it is, they should seriously be thankful they even have a job. You can imagine there will be strained relations amongst teaching staff, students and the government alike in the future.
Well, one things for sure it's been an interesting (to say the least) two months of suspense, drama and comedy starring CUPE's, Tyler Shipley. Hey, don't we have enough of this on 'Superchannel' already?
Read more on this article...
Friday, January 30, 2009
"LOBLAWS 1, VERMON ZERO"
The pitter-patter of tiny feet scurrying about the produce aisles is a dream come true for any furry critter. But a complete nightmare for a popular grocery store and the community it serves.The Loblaws at Dupont and Christie has been closed since last Monday after receiving a 'red failing' grade by Health Inspectors citing a 'severe rodent infestation' on the premises. This included mouse and rat droppings found on shelves, in the bakery and food preparation areas.
It all began when a complaint came into the Inspection agency from a customer at that store on Sunday which prompted an immediate investigation. People were surprised to learn that their store wasn't up to standards in cleanliness and sanitation. Staff have since been cleaning and patching rodent holes all week throughout the store, making sure it's up to standards before opening its doors to the public again. They're also being retrained on food safety and handling.
Loblaws has been known to be one of the city's (let alone the country's) most reputable food establishments, and now people won't forget this and neither will their wallets. You can count on it having a definite affect at the registers come this Monday. That is when the store is set to re-open, coincidentally Groundhog Day. Oh great that's all they need. Bigger critters! Read more on this article...
It all began when a complaint came into the Inspection agency from a customer at that store on Sunday which prompted an immediate investigation. People were surprised to learn that their store wasn't up to standards in cleanliness and sanitation. Staff have since been cleaning and patching rodent holes all week throughout the store, making sure it's up to standards before opening its doors to the public again. They're also being retrained on food safety and handling.
Loblaws has been known to be one of the city's (let alone the country's) most reputable food establishments, and now people won't forget this and neither will their wallets. You can count on it having a definite affect at the registers come this Monday. That is when the store is set to re-open, coincidentally Groundhog Day. Oh great that's all they need. Bigger critters! Read more on this article...
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
"THE AMERICAN DREAM: EVEN CANUCKS HAVE THEM"
Today, I was a part of history in the making. Today, I shared in the excitement and the magic of an entire nation. Today, I am full of hope and promise even through this time of economic uncertainty. Why you ask?I, like millions of people all over the world, watched with baited breath as 'Barack Hussein Obama' was sworn-in as the 44th President of the United States.
I couldn't tear my eyes away from the screen, all in anticipation of this incredible event taking place before my eyes. There, he was. A simple man, a humble man, a man that has not only made his mark in the political forefront, but has captured the hearts of all people globally and after 8 years of the Bush Administration it was definitely a welcomed (and much needed) change!
The theme of the inauguration was appropriately entitled 'Renewing America's Promise' but he in fact renewed the promise of everyone in every nation sharing his vision. That very moment, people of every colour, every race and every creed had a sense of renewed hope that things can change. Throngs of people braved the cold, cheered and proudly waved their flags while hanging off his every word. They had tears in their eyes so overcome with emotion they could hardly contain themselves, many had been there before dawn to see what they'd anxiously waited to see an entire lifetime. All to have their very own piece of history to take home with them, tell their children and grandchildren of an incredible moment in time when one man made a difference.
I can honestly say now that I look to the future with more optimism after witnessing a moment of this historical significance first hand. My only wish as a Canadian is that 'Obama-fever' would trickle up north of the border to our own political leaders (yes, I'm talking to you 'Stephen Harper'!) to renew hope in us as well. We need to find our own 'defining' moment in history. I just hope it doesn't take an entire lifetime to get there. Read more on this article...
I couldn't tear my eyes away from the screen, all in anticipation of this incredible event taking place before my eyes. There, he was. A simple man, a humble man, a man that has not only made his mark in the political forefront, but has captured the hearts of all people globally and after 8 years of the Bush Administration it was definitely a welcomed (and much needed) change!
The theme of the inauguration was appropriately entitled 'Renewing America's Promise' but he in fact renewed the promise of everyone in every nation sharing his vision. That very moment, people of every colour, every race and every creed had a sense of renewed hope that things can change. Throngs of people braved the cold, cheered and proudly waved their flags while hanging off his every word. They had tears in their eyes so overcome with emotion they could hardly contain themselves, many had been there before dawn to see what they'd anxiously waited to see an entire lifetime. All to have their very own piece of history to take home with them, tell their children and grandchildren of an incredible moment in time when one man made a difference.
I can honestly say now that I look to the future with more optimism after witnessing a moment of this historical significance first hand. My only wish as a Canadian is that 'Obama-fever' would trickle up north of the border to our own political leaders (yes, I'm talking to you 'Stephen Harper'!) to renew hope in us as well. We need to find our own 'defining' moment in history. I just hope it doesn't take an entire lifetime to get there. Read more on this article...
Thursday, January 15, 2009
"THEM'S THE BRAKES FOR PRISON BREAK"
Are you ready for this 'Prison Break' fans?! Fox has announced the hit show will not be back in September. Bubye to Michael Scofield and company folks! Looks like Wentworth Miller, Domenic Purcell, Michael Rapaport, Jodi Lyn O'Keefe, Sarah Wayne Callie and William Fichtner will be hitting the unemployment line come this spring. Just kidding! We'll probably see them resurrected on some other FOX show. Are you reading this '24'?! Until then have no fear you still have time, the final episode airs on April 17 at 8 p.m. ET on Global/Fox.
Read more on this article...
"MR. ROARKE'S FINAL FAREWELL"
The star of the hit 80's show 'Fantasy Island' has died at his home in Los Angeles. He was 88. The announcement of Ricardo Montalban's death was made at a city council meeting by president Eric Garcetti who represents the area where the actor lived.However, a cause of death was not given.
The dashing Mexican born actor that became a household name on the ABC hit program had a successful career spanning over fifty years. He played memorable characters like 'Zach Powers' in 'The Colby's' (a spin off of the ever popular 'Dynasty'), the ever popular villain 'Khan' in the 1981 movie 'Star Trek: The Wrath of Khan', a role in which he reprised from the 1967 television series, and most recently lending his voice on the FOX animated series 'Family Guy' in 2008 playing a cow.
Montalban was a star in Mexico when MGM brought him to Hollywood in 1946. There he was cast in the leading role opposite Esther Williams in 'Fiesta' and went on to make 'On an Island with You' and 'Neptune's Daughter' with the swimming beauty. His resume was impressive and extensive as he appeared in many classic shows opposite big name actors. While 'Bonanza', 'Mission Impossible' and 'Hawaii Five-O' are only a few the list included winning an Emmy for Best Supporting Actor in 1978 for his role in 'How The West Was Won'. The acting community has suffered a great loss.
Montalban is survived by his 4 children. Details of the funeral are not yet available. Read more on this article...
The dashing Mexican born actor that became a household name on the ABC hit program had a successful career spanning over fifty years. He played memorable characters like 'Zach Powers' in 'The Colby's' (a spin off of the ever popular 'Dynasty'), the ever popular villain 'Khan' in the 1981 movie 'Star Trek: The Wrath of Khan', a role in which he reprised from the 1967 television series, and most recently lending his voice on the FOX animated series 'Family Guy' in 2008 playing a cow.
Montalban was a star in Mexico when MGM brought him to Hollywood in 1946. There he was cast in the leading role opposite Esther Williams in 'Fiesta' and went on to make 'On an Island with You' and 'Neptune's Daughter' with the swimming beauty. His resume was impressive and extensive as he appeared in many classic shows opposite big name actors. While 'Bonanza', 'Mission Impossible' and 'Hawaii Five-O' are only a few the list included winning an Emmy for Best Supporting Actor in 1978 for his role in 'How The West Was Won'. The acting community has suffered a great loss.
Montalban is survived by his 4 children. Details of the funeral are not yet available. Read more on this article...
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
"HOWIE DOIN' HOWIE?!"
Canadian funny man Howie Mandel hadn't counted on being hospitalized last night for an irregular heartbeat. The world-famous host of 'Deal or No Deal' was monitored overnight at St. Michael's Hospital in Toronto and released today.
According to the Toronto Star, paramedics were called to the Sheraton Center hotel last night after the TO native Mandel had fainted while in the room with his mother. There were earlier reports he had suffered a heart attack but an e-mail statement issued yesterday by his Canadian spokesman, Lewis Kay, refuted that.
The comedian has been in Toronto filming 'Howie Do It' a Candid Camera type show that has Mandel wearing various disguises surprising unsuspecting people. It has also been known that Mandel is a 'germaphobic' and refuses to shake hands with the contestants on his game show. Spokesman Kay says, he will be back at work tomorrow. Read more on this article...
According to the Toronto Star, paramedics were called to the Sheraton Center hotel last night after the TO native Mandel had fainted while in the room with his mother. There were earlier reports he had suffered a heart attack but an e-mail statement issued yesterday by his Canadian spokesman, Lewis Kay, refuted that.
The comedian has been in Toronto filming 'Howie Do It' a Candid Camera type show that has Mandel wearing various disguises surprising unsuspecting people. It has also been known that Mandel is a 'germaphobic' and refuses to shake hands with the contestants on his game show. Spokesman Kay says, he will be back at work tomorrow. Read more on this article...
"THE EEEW'S & AHHH'S @ THE 2009 G2'S"
Prom queens, pirates and princesses were all out in full force for the 66th Annual 2009 Golden Globe Awards on Sunday.An array of bright fabrics turned the red carpet into a virtual rainbow of colour amongst the more classic solids. Although big jewellery, messy locks, sleek buns (hair that is), and skin (and lots of it) continue to be the trend this year.
There was good, there was bad, and there were oh so definitely the ugly. Here are just some of the yays and nays of the big night.
Jennifer Lopez's gown (wearing Marchesa) looked like a cross between an Oscar statuette and a solid gold dancer reject. It's a look that we've seen over and over again (remember the revealing Versace 'oh-so-low-is-she-wearing-tape-under-that-to-hold-it-together' gown she wore at the Grammy Awards?!...Ahhhhh...one of her finest moments!) I give this look a Nay 1/2!
While others, Christina Applegate (wearing a golden strapless Roberto Cavalli) donned her high school prom dress for this event. 'Samantha Who's' is right?! What was she thinking?! Unfortunately, Cameron Diaz fared no better (wearing Chanel) who looked like a bottle of children's Bayer aspirin threw up on her bold pink taffeta gown. Cristina and Cameron you ladies are getting a Nay!
Beyonce (Sasha Fierce or whatever name she's going by these days) wore a strapless sequin ivory gown (by Elie Saab) that appeared so restricting that one wrong move and 'her girls' might spill out! Giving a whole new meaning to words 'Golden Globes'! However, I did approve of the gorgeous Lorraine Schwartz 'kick-ass’ necklace she wore, so I'll give Beyonce a Nay 1/2 for it!
Winner of 2 count em' 2 globes for '
Evan Rachel Wood (The Wrestler) looked stunning in black ruffled number with plunging neckline. Soft make-up, a soft up do and her alabaster skin looked as fresh as a daisy! It's just so hard to believe she actually dated Marilyn Manson! Eeek! Definitely a step in the right direction! I'll give her look a freshly crisp Yay!
Renee Zellweger stayed true to her designer Carolina Herrera. However, the black fitted floor-length skirt with the sheer front cut out sleeves and nude bustier (taking it old school to 'Madonna's, Blonde Ambition Tour' are we?!) did absolutely nothing for her already built-in sour puss expression. Renee honey, I gotta give ya a Nay for this one!
Okay, the good news is Laura Dern won a globe for her incredible performance in 'Recount'. The bad news, her black dress didn't go beyond '
Tacky has a new name and it's called Maggie Gyllenhaal (The Dark Knight). I know she's got potential. I can feel it. But unless she gets help (and I mean that of the serious kind in the fashion department) it will be one dud after another for this actress. Never have I seen a one-shouldered leopard print (by Lanvin’s Spring 2009 collection, in black and turquoise mind you) look so absolutely out of place. I might go as far as to say that it had a sort of camouflage appearance to it. My advice? Please go back deep into the woods with that horrid number! Maggie it ain't happening! My sincerest condolences on the failing frock! But my hats off to you for taking a huge risk with this little number, it's just to bad it didn't pay off for you girl! I'll have no choice but to give you a so, so sorry Nay (and that's clinging on for dear life!)
Everybody's favourite 'Desperate Housewife' Eva Longoria Parker proved every bit the true Diva she is in her strapless red satin 'hug-every-curve-for-dear-life' mermaid style Reem Acra gown. C'est absolumente magnifique! I'll give Mrs. Parker a va-va-va-voom Yay!
Anne Hathaway (Bride Wars) worked her midnight blue Armani Prive gown like it was no body's business on the red carpet. The crystal bodice gave it a hint of shimmer while the flowing bottom made it look like Anne was floating on a cloud 9. Definitely a Yay 1/2 of another Yay!
I have been sitting on the fence with Drew Barrymore (wearing John Galliano for Dior) but I really want to jump off! I really do! Her pale blue gown gave it a Marilyn Monroe feel, while her hair, a tousled-do was reminiscent of Madonna's on the cover of her 'Like A Virgin' album. It was teased to the 9's which instantly transports me back to 80's! *deeply sigh here* Well, just for that I'll give you a Yay 1/2!
Laura Linney was coming up sunshine! Literally! Not only did she win a globe for her performance in HBO's 'John Adams' she radiated pure Hollywood ol' style on the red carpet with her draped pale light yellow Elie Saab gown. A big Yippee Yahoo Yay for you girl!
I’ll admit I’m not a fan of double globe winner Tina Fey (‘30 Rock’) and I’m quite sure the whole Sarah Palin impersonation on ‘SNL’ didn’t help matters. But her black halter gown, with a low-plunging neckline and metallic accents by Roberto Cavalli, had me forget why I wasn’t a fan of hers to begin with (for the moment that is!) I’ll give her a (temporary) Yay 1/2!
'Brangelina' looked way too laid back. Brad Pitt (‘The Curious Case of Benjamin Button’) looked his usual dapper self, but too bad Angelina Jolie’s (‘The Changeling’) silver beaded gown by Versace (is Gianni rolling over in his grave yet?!) was simply ‘yawnfest’ attire in my book (including her plain jane hair, the so called ‘subtle waves’ were just way ‘too subtle’...can you say ‘b-b-b-oring?!) I’ve seen way more effort put into going to the mall.
Honourable mentions go to Amy Adams ('Doubt') for best hair (who also looked great in her strapless black Oscar De La Renta I'd like to mention!) But Kate Beckinsale’s up do appeared so tight it made her head actually look smaller, like it was being swallowed by her J. Mendel, cream coloured, trumpet-hemmed gown and then (to add insult to injury) weighed down with enormous red spinel and diamond Fred Leighton earrings.
Rumor Willis (yes protégée of 'Demi Moore & Bruce Willis') was ‘Miss Golden Globe’ 2009 and looked elegant in a shoulder baring eggplant coloured Reem Acra gown with a jewel encrusted belt. She’s definitely made her mark as the G2 girl! While mother, Demi Moore wore $600,000 worth of Cartier diamonds for the night! Wow! That is some serious bling going on! Penelope Cruz (Chopard Jewels) wearing a chiffon beaded strapless column gown by Armani Prive looked simple yet lovely. However, the print of choice was reminiscent of that of old wallpaper I used to have in my living room. Okay here goes (and in one breath) Yay to Amy! Nay ½ to Kate! Yay to Rumor (Demi Yeeehawwww!) and Yay ½ to Penelope!
Well, we’ve touched upon the good, the bad and now for the ugly. There are a few that were less than their stellar selves. Mickey Rourke who took home his very own globe for ‘The Wrestler’ has made an amazing comeback. But sadly once again his look was not at all flattering. Donning shades and a glittery scarf, not to mention thanking your dogs in your acceptance speech those little voices in your head must be at odds with one another. I actually questioned whether he washed his hair for the event or not. It had a greasy ‘just workin’ on my car in the garage’ look to it.
Sting who was a presenter looked like a fish out of the River Thames. What’s with the dark full beard and dark hair?! I almost didn’t recognize him had they not announced his name! What happened? Who turned out the lights suddenly? And what in tar nations made him think he looked good as a brunette! A simple ‘blonde’ root touch-up would have done him just fine! Both these gentlemen (as talented as they are) receive a shout it from the mountain top capital NAY in my book!
Now I can put this baby to rest for this year. Next the Oscars! Don't touch that mouse folks! Stay tuned!
Read more on this article...Monday, January 12, 2009
"PLASTIC GETTING A BAD WRAP AGAIN"
Witches Britches, Modern Tumbleweed or White Pollution, no matter what you call it, Loblaws will be charging a nickel for each with partial proceeds going to the World Wildlife Fund-Canada starting today.
I just find it rather surprising that it would take the grocery giant so long to jump on the 'charge-per-bag' bandwagon considering they own Fortinos, Zehrs and No Frills which have been successfully doing this for years. It's also quite funny how they won't reveal just how much of the 'partial' in the proceeds will actually be donated until April.
According to an article in the Toronto Star, it cautioned that proceeds would be decreased due to spending on publicity, staff training and checkout redesign to accommodate reusable bags. What's up with that? As we all know any time something is introduced to the consumer a domino affect occurs.
At the risk of sounding anti-environmentally friendly (and no disrespect to any environmental organizations) by this next statement. I feel it's crucial that plastic continues thrive in our modern day society. Yes, you read that correctly. My green bin depends upon it! What else would I line the inside of it with? But please don't get me wrong. I've been trying to do my part to help the environment for years by recycling and reusing plastic bags every time I go grocery shopping. I'll admit using Zellers, Home Depot bags (or whatever chain uses them without charging) at Food Basics takes a little getting used to at first. But when you see just how cost efficient 'reusing' is, it not only benefits the environment but your wallet too.
If the 'P' word is such a taboo then what ever to happened to going back to basics? The good old 'paper bag' that's definitely biodegradable. And now with that statement I feel I've run the risk of angering tree-huggers everywhere who might be reading this article. Don't you see? You just can't win. There is no solution without either angering environmentalist, loss of revenue for corporations or disrupting daily life as we know it. There is no simple solution as far as I'm concerned nor will there ever be.
And after all that, I'm exhausted and hungry. A peanut butter and jelly sandwich sounds real good about now. Now there's something that doesn't need to be recycled!
Read more on this article...
I just find it rather surprising that it would take the grocery giant so long to jump on the 'charge-per-bag' bandwagon considering they own Fortinos, Zehrs and No Frills which have been successfully doing this for years. It's also quite funny how they won't reveal just how much of the 'partial' in the proceeds will actually be donated until April.
According to an article in the Toronto Star, it cautioned that proceeds would be decreased due to spending on publicity, staff training and checkout redesign to accommodate reusable bags. What's up with that? As we all know any time something is introduced to the consumer a domino affect occurs.
At the risk of sounding anti-environmentally friendly (and no disrespect to any environmental organizations) by this next statement. I feel it's crucial that plastic continues thrive in our modern day society. Yes, you read that correctly. My green bin depends upon it! What else would I line the inside of it with? But please don't get me wrong. I've been trying to do my part to help the environment for years by recycling and reusing plastic bags every time I go grocery shopping. I'll admit using Zellers, Home Depot bags (or whatever chain uses them without charging) at Food Basics takes a little getting used to at first. But when you see just how cost efficient 'reusing' is, it not only benefits the environment but your wallet too.
If the 'P' word is such a taboo then what ever to happened to going back to basics? The good old 'paper bag' that's definitely biodegradable. And now with that statement I feel I've run the risk of angering tree-huggers everywhere who might be reading this article. Don't you see? You just can't win. There is no solution without either angering environmentalist, loss of revenue for corporations or disrupting daily life as we know it. There is no simple solution as far as I'm concerned nor will there ever be.
And after all that, I'm exhausted and hungry. A peanut butter and jelly sandwich sounds real good about now. Now there's something that doesn't need to be recycled!
Read more on this article...
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