The Paw Print
March 2016 Issue
INSIDE THIS
ISSUE:
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
A history of Spring Fling—p. 2
The Page Program—p. 3
Staff Spotlight—p. 4
Movie Review—p. 5
Grilled Steak—p. 6
Tea Time with Blackwell—p. 7
“Ask Meredith” Advice
Column—pgs. 8 & 9
 Horoscopes—pgs. 10 & 11
 Calendar—pg. 12
Contributors:
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Eisha Ahmed
Amara Allaire
Sophie Berube
Salma Ibrahim
Shaiza Khan
Shanea Lines
Jordyn Reed
Jielex Songcuan
If YOU are interested in
joining Page’s journalism
team and/or have a suggestion for an announcement, issue, or event to be
covered, please contact
Ms. Pipke at
[email protected].
Alternatively, you may also
come to our bi-weekly
meeting during FLEX on
Monday in Room 2-100.
AsmittenCaleeTaylorattemptstowooNathanGaldames.
Relationship 101
By: Jielex Songcuan
With Valentine’s Day having just passed and the “Spring Fling” dance fresh in our
minds, it’s hard to deny that love is in the air. But love and relationships hold different
meanings to everyone, particularly high schoolers. How do you know what kind of
relationship your crush wants? What kind of love are you looking for? These are just a
few questions asked of Page students this month.
1. Which qualities do you look for in a potential girlfriend / boyfriend?
When single teenage girls were asked about what qualities they were searching for in
their significant other, they answered with qualities that did not include appearance. The
quality that was most mentioned was honesty, but to the extent where they are still
looking out for the other person’s feelings - in other words, not brutal honesty. Honesty
is one of the major keys into keeping a relationship healthy. When the same question
was asked of single teenage boys, the majority of the answers were based on appearance.
Answering with qualities based on appearance isn’t necessarily a bad thing because
physical traits are what get an individual’s attention in the first place. But down the road,
physical appearances will become irrelevant when you are exposed to an unwanted
quality that your significant other possesses. STORY CONTINUED ON PAGE 3.
TOC 2016: Vintage Spring Fling
Spring Fling
By: Salma Ibrahim
Hey panthers! We have some very exciting news for
you and it all about this year's Touch of Class theme.
The 2016 TOC was like none other this school has ever
seen. Our amazing Student Union (SU) came up with the
brilliant idea of a Vintage Spring Fling. That’s right we’re talking poodle skirts, swing dresses, black leather
jackets, white tees and slicked back hair. We know that a
theme like this hasn't been done yet so we decided to
give you the rundown for our very own version of What
Not to Wear. First things first, let's get familiar with the
fashion trends of the 1950s. With the ladies, it was very common to see them
with curled or pinned up hair. Red lips were also complimentary. Fashion accessories included cardigans, pearls, gloves or neck scarves tied off to the
side. Most importantly, dresses. Swing dresses were fitted at the waist, knee
length, and flared out into full circle skirts. An iconic fashion statement for girls
of the 1950’s was the famous poodle skirt. Pastel colours and floral prints
were also a big part of the fashion in the 50s which helps to tie the whole vintage spring fling theme together. For the teenaged boys, it was common for
them to go for a more rebellious look or a preppy one, both of which were
very popular. On a “rebellious” teen you might see a black leather jacket, sunglasses, and a plain white tee with rolled-up sleeves. Think of the boys from
The Outsiders or Grease - sometimes these guys were referred to as
“greasers” because of their slicked back hairstyle, hence the name Grease.
The preppy style included bold patterns and prints, cardigans and other
sweaters, blazers and ties, varsity jackets and especially long-sleeved button
ups. Many guys were very keen on looking proper, meaning they looked neat
in appearance and wore their shirts tucked in. The 1950’s were an amazing
time for fashion, especially for the youth of the decade because that's when
they first started to create looks of their own. Students were encouraged to
take on the vintage fashion of the 1950s on February 24th 2016 for this year’s
vintage spring fling! We’ll see how well they scored in next month’s issue.
2
A Different Kind of Page
By: Jordyn Reed
Most teenagers want a job. The idea of having their own money drives them to apply at fast
food restaurants and retail stores. But what many don't know is that you can work for the Alberta Government while you’re in high school. The Page Program at the Alberta Legislature is
a great job for students interested in learning about Alberta’s Legislative process while gaining
work experience.
In addition to their daily duties in the sittings of the Legislature, pages also participate in weekly page development seminars. These seminars include guest speakers who discuss a variety of
topics. The seminars aim to assist pages in learning new skills and career paths. Previous speakers have included the Lieutenant Governor, Members of the Alberta Legislative Assembly, and
a variety of professionals from different fields.
The Page Program is a great choice for anyone interested in government, politics and parliamentary procedure. The Program is much more than a job - it's an opportunity to experience
Alberta’s government first hand, be part of a team and gain valuable job skills. For more information you can visit: https://www.assembly.ab.ca/visitor/student_zone/opportunities.htm
Relationship 101 cont’d (from cover):
2. What’s the next step?
So, what happens next when you know that you have feelings for someone and you want to take
it to the next level? One grade eleven students suggests that you, “make it clear that you want
to be more than a friend and don’t ask them out over text.” Today’s teenagers seem to have
more courage saying things they want to say over text message but if you really want your
crush to notice you, at least make the effort to talk to them in person. When you have passed
the stage of asking your crush out, making sure that the relationship develops is essential to
preventing it from falling apart.
3. How do you achieve a long-lasting relationship?
A grade 12 boy who has been in a relationship for two years says, “In a relationship, the I and
You become a We and Us.” Both parties now have a significant other, the decisions one makes
will affect the other so it’s key to keep in mind what actions and decisions benefit both partners. This is where communication is key. It’s worth mentioning, though, that the healthiest
decisions are always those that ensure that you, as an individual, are healthy and content. Your
happiness can never depend solely on one other person. Single or not, finding relationships and
making them work is different for everyone but we should keep in mind that we are all still in
high school and we shouldn’t stress over having the perfect relationship.
Page Program
Pages work with the Visitor, Ceremonial and Security Services as a team, under the lead of the
Sergeant-at-Arms. Pages support Members of the legislature, as well as Officers and other staff
of the legislature. The main role of pages is to deliver messages and distribute documents during session. But pages also assist with ceremonies such as the Speech from the Throne and
Budget Day, and other special events such as Family Day and the First Poppy Presentation.
3
Staff Spotlight
Panther Praiseworthy
Meet Ms. Scavo. J. Percy Page’s very own dedicated, relatable, down-to-earth fitness trainer
and therapist. If you haven't met Ms.Scavo before, I strongly encourage you to do so. Head
down to the fitness centre just to say “Hello!” However, try to refrain from bringing any
broken bones or straining yourself in the process.
Ms. Scavo’s role is not only to help you with fitness programs, assess injuries, and set up
rehabilitation programs, she’s also at Page to encourage you. Sure you can go on questioning the importance of fitness in your life... “What has fitness ever done for me?” you may
say. “Fitness? Pfft, more like fitness whole pizza in my mouth!” Fitness isn’t just body
building or training for a marathon. Fitness means being able to perform physical activity.
It also means having the energy and strength to feel as good as possible. Getting more fit,
even a little bit, can improve your health, your mindset, energy, and determination.
Ms. Scavo is one individual who was bit by the fitness bug early on. She participated on
almost every sports team in high school. She additionally served as part of the Canadian
soccer team. Not only did these sports bring her fond memories but also valuable lessons
regarding the importance of hard work, perseverance, commitment, and the ability to overcome obstacles.
Challenge yourself, like she did, so one day you don't look back and say, “Man, I wish I
wasn’t afraid to take more chances,” “Dang it, I wish I spent my high school years doing a
variety of things,” or “I wish I’d developed healthy habits earlier to set me up for success.” After leaving her hometown of Red Deer, studying in Calgary and moving to Edmonton, Ms. Scavo dedicated herself to the motto “You miss 100% of the shots if you
don’t take them.” This is true of the basketball players, whose shooting percentage is atrocious, but still get the W’s; this is true of all the kids that take the time to show up to flex
help sessions, despite the struggles they’ve had writing or figuring out math equations in the
past; this is true of all students that impress staff members like Ms.Scavo by demonstrating
just how tough, smart, and encouraging they can be towards others - how they keep taking
shots whether they sink or not.
Whether it be helping a stroke victim get back on their feet, helping a person to a run at a
manageable pace, or choosing to be a part of a team that's willing to still give their everything (even a finger) when there's no chance of winning, Ms. Scavo’s past experiences serve
as prime examples of determination and proud accomplishments.
It's such efforts that accomplish goals and dreams - not just for yourself, but for others as
well. Ms. Scavo, your individual efforts, and the encouragement and guidance you offer to 4
staff and students alike help propel us into a healthier future. In truth, Redbull doesn’t “give
you wings…” but lateral pulldowns do.
Movie Review: The Revenant
9/10
By: Shanea Lines
The Revenant is based on true events which
unfolded in the 1820’s. The film opens with
Glass and his fellow trappers reeling from a
surprise attack by Arikara Native Americans.
Many of the trappers escape, Glass among
them. Forced to re-route their journey, conflict arises between two groups and a contrast
is immediately established between those
who trust Glass and those who would prefer
to forge their own way. In the end, it is not
Glass’ initial enemy that proves to be his
greatest foe. Throughout the movie Glass’s
physical body is nearly destroyed as his emotional and mental drive to fight for his survival only grows stronger, fed by a burning sense of
vengeance which compensates his lacking health.
DiCaprio does a fantastic job revealing the struggle and sorrow in the often quiet form of
Glass. My favorite part of this movie - though there were many memorable segments - was the
final scene where Glass gets a powerful sign of respect that I was anticipating throughout the
movie; I was relieved when I finally saw it. I was taken aback by the harshness of the outside
elements, void of modern technologies that might assist in one’s survival. Were a person from
2016 to be transported back to the 1820s, exposed to similar conditions as Glass, he or she
would surely die.
An interesting fact is that this movie was filmed in many Alberta locations, including Calgary,
Canmore, and Kananaskis Country. This particular movie is not one that I would typically
watch, as I’m usually more into comedies. Nevertheless, even though this movie is woefully
serious, eliciting a variety of feelings, none of which resemble hilarity, to my surprise I found
The Revenant very interesting and engaging. It was overall uplifting to watch, and brought me
through some emotions that I don’t habitually feel everyday. I would definitely recommend
The Revenant to anyone who's interested in an “emotional roller coaster” of revenge and redemption.
Photo accessed from en.wikipedia.org/ www.IMBD.com
Entertainment
A “revenant” is defined as a person who has
returned, especially from the dead or near
death. Alejandro G. Iñárritu’s film, of the
same name, portrays real-life protagonist,
Hugh Glass, as one who returns, seemingly
from death, to exact his own brand of vengeance. It is an especially intense movie that
has many cringe-worthy moments. Starring
Leonardo DiCaprio as Glass, as well as Tom
Hardy as his brutal adversary, John Fitzgerald, the film has been nominated for a total
of twelve Academy Awards, including Best
Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor and
Best Supporting Actor for DiCaprio and Hardy,
respectively.
5
Jamie Oliver’s
Grilled Steak Salad With Pesto
and Crostini
Food & Drink
Ingredients
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
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
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
matured quality rib eye steak
olive oil
sea salt
freshly ground black pepper
1 sprig fresh rosemary, leaves picked and chopped
½ tablespoon dried oregano
2 slices ciabatta bread
2 tablespoon green pesto
1 clove garlic, cut in half
100 g mixed salad leaves
juice of 1 lemon
Directions
Lay the steaks on a chopping board and rub with a
little olive oil. Season and sprinkle with the rosemary
and oregano. Cover with greaseproof paper and
bash lightly with a rolling pin or the bottom of a
saucepan until the steaks are slightly flattened out
and the herbs and seasoning are nicely pressed into
the meat.
Put a large griddle pan on high heat and, as it’s heating up, toast the ciabatta on both
sides. Keep the toast warm. Shake any crumbs out of the griddle pan, then return to the
heat and lay the steaks in it, side by side. Cook for about 8 minutes, turning every minute,
for a medium steak, or a little longer if you like your meat more cooked. Lift the steaks out
of the pan and leave to rest somewhere warm.
Spoon a tablespoon of pesto on to each of two warm plates and smear out across the plate
with the back of the spoon. Place a steak on each plate and pour any resting juices over
the top.
Rub the toasted ciabatta with the garlic, drizzle with a little olive oil, and put a piece on top
of each steak.
In a mixing bowl, toss the salad leaves with the lemon juice, a lug of olive oil and a pinch of
salt and pepper. Divide the salad between the plates and serve.
Recipe accessed from http://www.jamieoliver.com/recipes/beef-recipes/grilled-steak-salad-with-pesto-and-crostini
6
Tea Time with Blackwell
By: Eisha Ahmed
Tea Time
On Wednesday February 10th, the Paw Print news reporters enjoyed a delightful chat over tea
with Mr. Blackwell, Page’s joyous English and Drama teacher. Mr. Blackwell’s witty and casual demeanor
has endeared him to many as both an
entertaining and easygoing person to
talk to. Due to his exuberant nature and
the constant smile that adorns his face,
it’s no surprise that Mr. Blackwell is
among the most well-liked staff members at J. Percy Page.
Evident from his enthusiastic personality, Mr. Blackwell is a person with various interests. He counts journalism, politics, arts, and acting among his passions
- and these are just a few. His extensive
list of hobbies induced him to pick teaching for a career - in his own words, “I
have a lot of interests, and teaching allows me to [pursue] everything.” He
also enjoys multimedia and graphic design, and was actually initially hired as a
film studies teacher here at Page. Travelling is also among Mr. Blackwell’s vast
interests; he even lived abroad - in Germany as an exchange student. He lists Tokyo, India, and Iceland as
the three places he’d most like to travel to next.
Mr. Blackwell’s favourite colour is green “because it complements red quite nicely” and also because “it’s the colour of Saskatchewan Roughriders” - his sports team of choice, as he was born in Regina.
On the day of the interview, Mr. Blackwell showed up wearing a vibrant yellow shirt which he claimed he
“saw [on display] on a mannequin,” and thought, “if they put it together, it must be great!” Besides, he added that if you happen to wear glasses and stare at the bright yellow for a while, “it would give you very
cheap laser eye surgery!” When inquired about his beard, he explained that he “can’t go clean shaven because people think [he’s] a student.” During the interview, he was asked if he had a hidden talent, to which
Mr. Blackwell bent his flexible finger very far back so it touched his wrist. He also flapped his hand really
fast so it appeared floppy. (Ask him about his hidden talents if you happen to see him, and you might get to
witness them in person.)
Another thing readers might find interesting about Mr. Blackwell is his brush with fame due to a
certain “Gingerbread Man” costume. About two years ago, someone posted a photo of Mr. Blackwell in a
punny Gingerbread costume he’d worn to school for Halloween on Tumblr, and since then it has become
widely shared and Mr. Blackwell, quite famous. “I was shocked to know I gained this overnight fame over a
picture without my knowledge,” Mr. Blackwell mused.
When asked to choose between acting or directing a movie, given the chance, Mr. Blackwell replied, “directing” because “I have a vision and have to make plans on how to accomplish it.” Mr. Blackwell
has directed several plays throughout his life, but he feels most accomplished about Beauty and the Beast, the
musical from last year.
With the Valentine’s season recently over, Mr. Blackwell gave some relationship tips on how to ask
your crush out. “Pretend not to be nervous,” he advised. “Be bold, get over the fear and jump in.” And, if
rejected, “roll with it, keep moving on in life.” Following that, Mr. Blackwell recounted his own grade 7
event where he danced with a girl who later told him that ‘she was dating someone else.’ “Another girl had
asked me out,” he narrated, “but I said ‘no’ since I was a ‘one girl’ kind of guy.” Mr. Blackwell grimaces at
this memory as he counts it among his “most embarrassing moments ever.”
To wrap up the conversation, Mr. Blackwell advised all students to work hard and stay true to
their ambitions. “Just do it,” he said, “don’t let your dreams be only dreams.” Thank you Mr. Blackwell for
taking time out of your busy schedule to share some of your enthralling life stories with us!
7
Ask Meredith
Do you need advice? Ask Meredith, our highly certified
advice columnist. In 1999, Meredith received her Masters
Degrees in Psychology, Sociology and Education from the
University of Nunavut, online faculty. While living
amongst polar bears she discovered her inner empathy.
Dear Meredith,
I have a problem. I have not been blessed with the best genetics. I have small nasal
passages, which makes it difficult to breath through my nose. Additionally I have
large teeth with a gap. My over-sized lips make it difficult to cover my big teeth, so
I am stuck being a gap toothed mouth breather. Any advice to make me look less
like a slack-jawed yokel?
Sincerely,
The Rake
Dear The Rake,
This does sound like a rather unfortunate situation but I'm sure it's not as bad as you
make it sound. My advice for your teeth is a fairly simple solution - braces. You can even
get Invisalign so that they're not noticeable. I've heard that teachers have rather good
dental coverage. I would also suggest getting accustomed to breathing through your
nose.
Cheers!
Meredith
Dear Meredith,
I’m pregnant and I don't know what to do. I'm in grade 12.
Sincerely,
Help Please
Dear Help Please,
The first thing you need to know is that it's very important to find someone you trust to talk
to about this. If you don't want to talk to someone you know, you can get support from the
Terra Centre or Pregnancy Care Centre. You can also anonymously call 211 Alberta or the
distress line at 780-482-HELP.
Sincerely,
Meredith
8
Sincerely,
A Disappointment
Dear A Disappointment,
Let me first say, you are not a disappointment! Most people hate writing essays as well!
Here are a few suggestions to help stop those tears. First of all, go into writing your essay
with a positive attitude, despite how you really feel. This could very well be the best paper
you’ve ever written if you keep an open mind and explore your options. For example, you
can always ask your teacher for extra help (i.e. over flex). It’s pretty much a guarantee that
your distress also causes your teachers distress! They can best support you if you come
forward with your concerns. My second piece of advice is to reward yourself. Set short
term goals and treat yourself as you meet them. You might buy some of your favourite candy or your favourite treat. Write one paragraph and reward yourself by eating some of it. Do
that for each paragraph or so.
Happy writing,
Meredith
Dear Meredith,
How do I learn to love myself even though I feel suicidal?
Sincerely,
Sad&Alone
Dear Sad&Alone,
This is a very difficult question to answer. And I'm afraid I can't give you a fool proof method on how to love yourself. There are a few things that are important for you to know,
though. First, find someone to talk to. It doesn't have to be someone you know. You can
call the Canadian Mental Health Association distress line (780-482-HELP) or the Kids Help
Phone (1-800-668-6868). Secondly, surround yourself with supportive people - these people can be friends, or family members, or trusted teachers, coaches, or counsellors - that
will help you through this. Detach yourself from any negative and toxic people. Lastly, if
you feel unsafe, head to emergency right away.
Advice Column
Dear Meredith,
How do I not get tears on my essays because I hate work?
Sincerely,
Meredith
9
Horoscopes
Contributor: Amara Allaire
ARIES Mar 21 ‐ Apr 19 Don't let everyday drama throw you off your course. Rumours that catch your attention are likely not true. There may even be untrue rumours about yourself making
their way to people you don’t even know. Either way, do not let them drag you down
or take your focus away from the things that truly matter, like the truth.
TAURUS Apr 20 ‐ May 20 Horoscopes
Someone may be trying to overrule you and bribe you with information to get what
they want. Do not let this person manipulate you into doing what they want. Take a
step back, and look at the big picture. Giving in is not worth it. GEMINI May 21 ‐ June 20 Right now, you need a true friend, but because of previous actions you may have lost
many. You must be conscious of your actions and remember that drama is not necessary in a relationship. In the past you may have burnt your bridges beyond repair.
Now is the time to either rebuild some or start from scratch. CANCER June 21 ‐ July 22 The time to pursue your dreams is approaching. There are big decisions that you will
have to make and you may be pressured into making them right now. Know that
these decisions do not have to be rushed.
LEO July 23 ‐ Aug 22 Don't be afraid to show your true colours to everyone. Sometimes you may find yourself being shy, which is actually out of character for you. Try to break free from your
own social boundaries. But take caution, you don’t want to come across as too strong
to everyone.
VIRGO Aug 23 ‐ Sept 22 There's someone who has piqued your interest. Do what your heart tells you, and do
not hold back or you may lose your opportunity. Get to know this person, and do not
be hurt if they choose not to get to know you, for if they do not, it is not a loss of
yours but theirs.
LIBRA Sept 23 ‐ Oct 22 You are known to be indecisive but right now there are very important decisions to be
made. It will be challenging to make these decisions. Weigh the pros and cons of all
outcomes in order to come to a final verdict. Do not rely solely on the advice of others, as it is important for you to consider what YOU want.
SCORPIO Oct 23 ‐ Nov 21 Envious people may try to hurt you, but if they do, it is wise for you not to change a
thing. These people feel inferior to you and their envy comes from a desire to have
the qualities that you have. So do not change who you are! 10
SAGITTARIUS Nov 22 ‐ Dec 21 There may be someone that seeks more of your attention. If you are interested in
establishing some form of relationship with this person, give them your attention. But
show them kindness, regardless of your interest or lack thereof. If you have no interest in any type of relationship, keep yourself busy and don’t lead this person on.
CAPRICORN Dec 22 ‐ Jan 19 AQUARIUS Jan 20 ‐ Feb 18 You are starting to feel like your true self. Without the stress of previous complications at school and/or work, you are feeling genuinely happy. Opportunities are plentiful, but ensure you make wise choices. If you put a little forethought into your decisions, that which you choose should not cause any extra stress. This is a time to enjoy!
PISCES Feb 19 ‐ March 20 There are many new assignments that will come in the very near future. Although right
now may not be too busy, without preparation for the future you will be overwhelmed
later. Prepare now!
On this day in history:
March 2nd, 1969: The Anglo-French built 'Concorde', the world's first supersonic
airliner, makes its maiden flight.
March 7th, 1936: Hitler marches German troops into the demilitarized Rhineland in
defiance of the Treaty of Versailles.
March 15, 44 BC: Julius Caesar, dictator of Rome for life, is assassinated in a conspiracy led by Cassius and Brutus.
March 17, 2003: Britain and the US abandon attempts to gain UN backing for the
invasion of Saddam Hussein's Iraq.
On this day...
Don't let your emotions get the best of you, right now is a time to have organized
thoughts. Think through everything you will speak about; do not say anything you
might regret later. Your words could come back to haunt you, so be careful. March 26, 1945: US forces take the strategically vital island of Iwo Jima from
the Japaneseafter a month of fighting.
March 28, 1930: Constantinople is renamed Istanbul as part of Kemal Ataturk’s
campaign to create a secular Turkey.
Informa on accessed from www.bbc.co.uk/history/on_this_day/ on Feb. 23rd, 2016
11
NO CLASSES
27
20
13
6
28
Sun
12
15 Day A
School Council Meeting 7:00-8:30pm
Grad Photos
22 Day B
29
14 Day B
PI DAY!
Grad Photos
21 Day A
Norquest Presentation: 11:30-12:30
28
NO CLASSES
8 Day B
7
PD Day
NO CLASSES
NO CLASSES
1 Day B
Tue
29
Mon
3 Day B
Thu
NO CLASSES
30
23 Day A
Centre High Presentation: 11:30-12:30
Grad Photos
16 Day B
NO CLASSES
until April 4th
31
24 Day B
Page Live
TALENT SHOW
2:00-4:00pm
Grad Photos
17 Day A
St. Patrick’s Day
(wear green!)
9 Day A
10 Day B
Armed Forces Presen- Open House
tation in 4-107 from
6:00-8:00pm
11:15-12:15
2 Day A
Wed
March 2016
25
Good Friday
NO CLASSES
Grad Photos
18 Day B
11 Day A
4 Day A
Fri
26
Spring Break
NO CLASSES
19
12
5
Sat