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Making outsiders, Insiders | February 16th, 2022
LOVE ! Our Battles&&JUSTICE How We Cope Insider Now On Discord!
Inspiring stories of two Black feminists!
Wi Woo nners of the I Insid nsider e!
QR Code Inside!
ERIN O'TOOLE FIRED!
Best photos of 2021 in Montreal !
Who's behind the "Freedom Convoy"?
vinsider.ca CAMPUS 3: The Insider is now on Discord!; Back and Better than Ever! NEWS 3-4: O'Toole Out! - The Search is On for New Leader of Party in Shambles BLACK HISTORY MONTH 4-5: Spotlight On: bell hooks; Angela Davis
vcsainsider VOICES
Valentine's Day; The Best of Montreal in 2021
5-6: What does the "Freedom Convoy" actually stands for?; The Man on Guy Street ENTERTAINMENT 6-7: Top 5 Shows on Netflix, What's trending on #BookTok? ARTS
10: First Valentine, Red Velvet, I Love You Berry Much, I'm Falling in Love 11: The Money's Servant FUN PAGE 12: Horoscopes, Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe, Pickup lines, wordsearch puzzle
7: Two Hearts Apart; Love is in the Air; Zak 8-9: Georgia, The totally (un)historical origin of
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Wednesday, April 1st | Winter 2020 | Issue 3
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Wednesday, February 16 | Winter 2022 | Issue 1
EDITORIAL
Editor’s Note
Editor-in-Chief Jacques Wang Assistant Editor-in-Chief Isabella Del Grosso Production Manager Diba Executives Marieke Glorieux-Stryckman Talia Atallah Assistants Ihsane Fakhir Roy Lesage Contributors Jacques Wang Claudia Bruscia Talia Atallah Isabella Del Grosso Katya Jutras Diba Ihsane Fakhir Melissa Deng Roy Lesage Manan Suthar Joy Bello-Osagie Kayla Tanjin Sultana Vanier's Oracle Layout Jacques Wang Cover Page Design Roy Lesage
Please pass onto a friend or recycle after reading!
Hello Vanier students,
Hello again!
We’re officially back! After a rocky holiday break and a very stressful beginning of the semester, I'm so glad to see you all in person.
Welcome back to on-campus life! We’re so proud to present our new issues and contests this semester with our amazing team, which has grown!
I’m very humbled to have the confidence of my team to continue as editor-in-chief for this semester. I hope you will enjoy some of the big projects we wish to enact this semester.
Thank you to all who contributed to this issue, and congratulations to our yearly Woo The Insider Valentine Contest winners!
I also welcome our new executives - Marieke and Talia, and our new assistant - Ihsane, to the editorial team. I rest my trust in those three talented ladies in making the Insider the best student newspaper in the country! To all of our contributors, I cannot thank everyone for all the submissions we've received for our first issue. There were many of you who sent in multiple articles. Thank you for dedicating your time once again to the Insider. I cannot stress how much it means to us. I want to congratulate the winners of our Woo the Insider contest Joy, Kayla and Katya. Keep up the fantastic work! I wish you a wonderful Valentine's Day to all the single folks and the guys and gals who went on a date. As always, I hope you will enjoy our first issue of the semester. Happy reading! Jacques Wang, Editor-in-Chief
Upcoming Events February 16 - 22: Confirmation of attendance February 16: University Application Day; Concordia University visit February 17: St. Francis Xavier University Virtual Drop in Session February 18: Letter of Intent workshops February 23: Winter Carnival during UB March 1: Deadline for university applications for Fall 2022 / Deadlines for Vanier applications for Fall 2022
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Assistant Editor’s Note
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We hope you stay happy and healthy and enjoy our issue filled with incredible articles. We hope to see you next time :) Isabella Del Grosso, Assistant Editor-in-Chief
CAMPUS
The Insider is now on Discord! + New Potential Podcast!
Back and Better than Ever! Claudia Bruscia
Jacques Wang
Hey there Vanier students! We are proud to announce that the VCSA Insider now has its own Discord server. Our Discord server was made to connect with our readers. Our server offers many different chat channels tailored to the various subjects that our contributors will enjoy. Do you like debating on the current political hot topics? Do you want to know more about campus life? Want to share awesome artwork that you've made? Seen the best movie ever, and want others to know? Come on over! Our new Discord server is dedicated to having students connect with their passions. With the launch of our new Discord serv-
MEDLIFE Vanier is excited for what’s to come this semester! er, we are also proud to announce a new podcast project at the Insider! By joining our server, you are eligible to participate in our future podcast, where we will discuss various events surrounding our campus life, our college, and everything Vanier students are passionate about. Our team is still working on the server and setting up our podcast project. If you want to help us on the server, don't hesitate to contact our executives on either Discord, Instagram (@vcsainsider) or
by email (studentnewspaper@vaniercollege. qc.ca). Just like contributing to the Insider, every contribution could give you S.T.A.R. hours. To join our server and start your journey with us, scan the following QR code! Can't wait to see y'all on Discord!
Vanier’s MEDLIFE is a chapter of MEDLIFE International, which is an organization that aids in improving access to medicine, education and community development initiatives in Latin America and Africa. It is done through Student Service Learning trips which take place annually. Vanier executives, committee seat members, volunteers, and Vanier students are able to attend this trip. Multiple fundraising events take place during the semester to finance this humanitarian trip. Furthermore, volunteering events are opportunities for students to get involved amongst MEDLIFE while benefitting our local community. They’re also an excellent opportunity for students to gain STAR hours. Stay tuned for what MEDLIFE Vanier has to offer! Instagram @medlife.vanier Executives for 2021-2022 President – Rebecca Mazza-Lihnakis Service-Learning Trip Officer – Isabella Giosi Public Relations & Recruitment Officer – Sadia Bhuiyan Fundraising Coordinator – Maria Angelina Bekhit Volunteering Coordinator – Jessica Sebastian Victor Junior Executive – Claudia Bruscia
NEWS
O’Toole Out! – Search is On for a New Leader of a Party in Shambles
Jacques Wang
After disappointing election results and weeks of internal turmoil, Conservative caucus members have officially shown the door to their leader Erin O'Toole, automatically triggering a leadership contest that may further disunify an already divided party. Background Following the 2019 federal election, leader Andrew Scheer stepped down as leader of the Conservative Party of Canada. In August 2020, Durham MP Erin O'Toole was elected as his successor, beating out the
ers in Ontario, Quebec, and Atlantic Canada. Some of the policies included supporting a carbon tax and an assaultstyle weapon ban – two policies the Tories were known for opposing in the past. This reversal of positions leads many political commentators to characterize O'Toole as a weathervane.
Image: Blair Gable / Reuters
initial frontrunner, former deputy leader Peter MacKay. During the leadership contest, O'Toole, a moderate, ran on a "true blue" platform to win over his party's socially conservative and reli-
gious wing. During the 18 months the suburban Torontobased MP served as a leader, O'Toole adopted a more centrist approach of rallying moderate vot-
Ultimately, O'Toole's plan did not work in dislodging Justin Trudeau's Liberal government. The Conservative Party won 119 seats in the last federal election, losing two from 2019. Following the
disappointing election results, many right-wing Tory MPs and Senators who supported O'Toole since the leadership contest have started to blame his leadership as the reason behind their defeat. The removal process Calls for O'Toole's resignation have grown since the last election. Senator Denise Batters from Saskatchewan launched a petition to remove him from his position. She was later expelled from the party. Several Conservative riding associations have also called for
the party to hold an early leadership review. Ultimately, on January 31, thirty-five Conservative MPs signed a letter wishing for the caucus to vote on their leader's leadership immediately. Under a 2014 law, a parliamentary caucus can fire its leader if more than 20% of its MPs demand it. It is the first time this law has been enacted in Canadian history. On February 2, during their caucus meeting, Erin O'Toole's leadership was defeated by a vote of 73-45, effectively terminating his job. Ontario
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MP Scott Reid abstained due to his position as caucus chair. Motives for removing O'Toole mainly revolved around his transformation from a hard-right to a centrist leader. Alberta MP Garnett Genius, one of the thirty-five who co-signed the letter, voted for O'Toole's removal partially due to his decision of voting in favour of outlawing conversion therapy without consulting caucus first. Genius, who previously voted against the ban in a similar bill, was overseas when the Canadian Parliament unanimously voted to ban conversion therapy. Rift between the centre and the right O'Toole's leadership and removal expose the already deep divides within the Conservative Party that many political analysts believe caused the party's demise at the hands of the Liberals in previous elections. When the modern Conservative Party was formed in 2003, it acted as the merger of the
more moderate Progressive Conservatives, more prominent in Eastern Canada, and the more right-wing Canadian Alliance, more prominent in Western Canada. The Tories hoped the merger would defeat the Jean Chrétien and Paul Martin Liberal government. Under the leadership of Stephen Harper, both sides of the party stayed unified as the Tories held power from 2006 to 2015. Since Harper's departure from politics, the debate still rages on whether the Tories should adopt a more centrist approach to win over voters or stay further to the right and stay as a voice for rightwing voters in the country. Following the election loss of 2019, moderate Conservatives blamed Andrew Scheer's socially conservative positions on why they lost the election. Two years later, Erin O'Toole was sacked by more than 60% of his caucus for being too centrist. Dimitri Soudas, the former director of communications under Stephen
Harper, believes this internal rift between the two wings will cause the Tories to lose more elections unless a leader can unify both camps. "If the next Conservative leader can stay at the centre of the party, and then stay in the centre of the country, he or she can govern the country like [former Prime ministers] Brian Mulroney and Stephen Harper did […] if not, they will never govern at all," said Soudas on the Radio-Canada show Mordus de Politique. O'Toole's replacement A few hours after O'Toole's leadership vote, caucus selected deputy leader Candice Bergen as its interim leader until a permanent successor is chosen. As interim leader, the Manitoba MP cannot run for the next upcoming leadership election, which will be held for the fourth time in the party's history and the third time in the last five years. On February 5, Pierre Poilievre became the first candidate to have thrown his name in the hat. Known for his sharp at-
tacks on the Trudeau government, the 42-year-old Ottawa-based MP is seen as the crowd favourite to become leader thanks to his popularity amongst caucus and party members. Poilievre, who also serves as the party's Shadow Finance Minister, is widely seen as a right-wing voice for his support of the controversial "Freedom Convoy" and opposition to public health measures. However, on social issues, Poilievre is pro-choice and supports the ban on conversion therapy. As of writing this article, Poilievre is the sole candidate for leadership. Ontario MP Leslyn Lewis may be tempted to run for a second time. The then-Toronto lawyer gained national media coverage as the first Black woman to run for the Tories' leadership contest. Lewis, a pro-life social conservative, finished third with more than 20% of the votes. Peter MacKay has also been speculated to run once again. The 56-yearold former deputy leader from Nova Scotia has
been associated as the face of the party's moderate wing. Jean Charest’s name has been thrown as a leadership candidate for O’Toole. The former Premier of Quebec has been described by MPs as an interesting and powerful choice for progressives and moderates. Other prominent names who might run include Brampton mayor Patrick Brown, former Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Michael Chong, Cinémas Guzzo CEO Vincenzo Guzzo, political commentator Tasha Kheiriddin, Ontario Transport Minister Caroline Mulroney, and Calgary MP Michelle Rempel Garner.
As for Erin O'Toole, he will continue as the MP for Durham and vows to support the next leader of the Conservative Party. However, in his final speech, O’Toole expressed concerns that a more right-wing Conservative Party may not win the next election. "Ideology without power is vanity. Seeking power without ideology is hubris," warned O’Toole. As Dimitri Soudas explained, the next leader of the Conservative Party of Canada will bear the immense responsibilities of unifying a party in shambles and leading the party to victory, should he or she wish to avoid the same fate of their predecessors.
Pierre Poilievre, Conservative MP for Carleton, Ontario and upcoming leadership contestant
BLACK HISTORY MONTH Spotlight On: bell hooks
Talia Atallah
2021 saw the death of many important public figures, such as feminist, activist and author bell hooks. On December 15, 2021, a few weeks after discussing her in my English class, bell hooks passed away at age 69. But who was bell hooks, and why was she important? First off, I’d like to mention that I did not make a typo in her name. bell hooks wanted her pen name to be written as it is because she refused to have her pen name with capital letters, suggesting ego. Her real name is Gloria
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Jean Watkins, but she decided to be known to the public as bell hooks based on her maternal great-grandmother ’s name. She was born on September 25, 1952, in the town of Hopkinsville in the US state of Kentucky.
Her many works included Ain’t I a woman?: Black Women and Feminism (1981), Writing Beyond Race: Living Theory and Practice (2012), and Talking Back: Thinking Feminist, Thinking Black (1989). hook’s feminism sought to redefine feminism
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one that continues to be broader. What about racism? What about diversity? Are people genuinely addressing these issues correctly and concretely? Not really, believed hooks. “Black Women and Feminism” aimed
at recognizing the little voice black women had in feminism, giving people at the time of first-wave suffrage and women’s movements, in the early 1800s to 1900s, a reason to believe that black women didn’t care about feminism. White women and other white people realized the incoherence of what feminism is vs. how it is represented in society. Is feminism only for white women? Early feminist movements demonstrate the disconnect of fighting for equal rights between all men and all women in a prejudiced society.
bell hooks wasn’t the first black feminist to urge black feminism and a call to redefine feminism, but she stands as a reminder that if we, as a society, are not collectively on the same page, then change will never come. We have to repeat things. Throughout my education, I only learned about one black feminist before hooks, Angela Davis, which can give students the idea that black feminists and black feminism as a whole do not exist or that it is unimportant. Continue to educate yourselves!
Angela Davis: Activist, author and professor Claudia Bruscia
“The process of empowerment cannot be simplistically defined in accordance with our own particular class interests. We must learn to lift as we climb” – Angela Davis
In honour of black history month, let’s have a look into the life of Angela Davis. Growing up in Alabama, Davis was exposed to racial prejudice and segregation from an early age. In addition to her academic interest in socialism and communism, this sparked her journey as a radical civil rights activist. She was later recognized as a radical African American educator and feminist. As a university student at Brandeis University, she studied philosophy. She also studied important figures such as Karl Marx, Albert Camus, and Jean-Paul Sartre. She became an active member of the Communist Party’s Che-Lumumba Club and the Black Panthers, a political organization that challenged the police brutality faced by African Americans. Angela Davis is known for her involvement with the trial of the Soledad brothers in the 70’s. She is also wellknown for her books, notably Women, Race and Class (1980) and Are Prisons Obsolete? (2003). Davis is a respected figure in activism for her courage and revolutionary thinking.
OICES
What Does the “Freedom Convoy” Actually Stand For? Isabella Del Grosso You have probably heard of the giant mass of truckers currently in downtown Ottawa honking for freedom from covid regulations. However, massive Trump flags have people questioning what people are actually fighting for. The Freedom Convoy was inspired by the new law put into place that unvaccinated truckers would not be able to cross the border. Even though those truckers make up only 10% of all truckers, their choice to protest called the attention of all who disagree with covid regulations and vaccine mandates. They have driven to Ottawa, and they vow to stay in the nation's capital until the Prime Minister lifts all covid restrictions even though all covid restrictions.
Image: BBC News / Getty Images
While it is understandable that people are frustrated with covid regulations that are seemingly never-ending and misinformation spreading everywhere, who can we trust to best keep us safe? Despite all this, is the answer continuous honking and abusing people for wearing a mask? It is the reality of people currently living in downtown Ottawa who have been unable to func-
tion due to the loud noise. It was so disruptive that the Ontario Superior Court had to get involved. Moreover, protestors stole food from homeless shelters, defaced a Terry Fox monument and imitated Native rituals. Canada's Freedom Convoy protest actually sparked protests across the world of people who are sick of covid regulations with countries such as New
Zealand, France and soon the United States having their own. I think it's worth noting that no matter your vaccine status or stance on regulations, the situation has gotten a little out of hand. Instead of a peaceful protest, this is turning into an unstable situation. The convoy was able to raise almost 10 million dollars on GoFundMe, yet what they may or may not know (I don't
know which is worse) is that a huge profit of their funds came from white supremacists and foreign influences. The mayor of Ottawa was able to give refunds to all who donated, and the truckers called this a lack of freedom. I think it's a little ignorant to get upset over not being able to fund a dangerous gathering when Native communities don't have clean drinking water; that is a real issue.
It's also worth noting that provinces are laying out plans to end almost all regulations and will soon treat the virus as an endemic. It's too soon to say when the truckers will leave; however, if nearly all restrictions are lifted, and they are still there, then we'll really know the meaning of their protest.
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The Man on Guy Street Katya Jutras Bruised head and crimson scars
In the past few months, we’ve heard of several tragic deaths of people who were leaving in a situation of homelessness who died in the cold. Though the issue lies at an institutional level and the roots go deep, here are a few ideas of things we can carry to help whom we can:
Forgotten by the crowd Dried lips and desperate voice
An extra pair of gloves to give (even the not-too-expensive Dollorama kind counts!)
A parched throat Bitter wind and cruel cold
A tuque or big socks to give (always useful!)
His crushing beam
Tim Hortons or McDonald’s gift card (who wouldn’t want coffee in this cold? )
A cry for help, the call of the poor: “I’m hungry!
Hotshots / Hot pads
I’m hungry!
Don’t wake up someone who is sleeping, but if you notice someone has blue lips, don’t ignore them: you can call the ambulance and follow their instructions!
I’m hungry!”
A hand extended, food is given
And as always, don’t put yourself in a situation that would make you feel unsafe.
Alas! no balm for the scars No cover from the cold
Ideas come from Annie Archambault, worker at the CACTUS community organization, @surleborddelaligne
Bruises left uncared for on the head with the crown of thorns.
ENTERTAINMENT
Top 5 Shows to Watch on Netflix for Valentine's Day Diba Whether it’s for Valentine’s Day or after Valentine’s Day, Netflix always has new and exciting binge-worthy shows to offer. There are countless shows and movies on Netflix with the theme of Valentine’s Day. Whether you spend your Valentine’s Day with your special someone or with your friends, here is a list of top 5 Netflix shows that you must watch. The top 5 Valentine’s Day Netflix shows are: 1. Emily in Paris Emily in Paris is a comedy-drama about Emily Cooper who moves from Chicago to Paris for a job opportunity. She lands her dream job in a French Fashion marketing firm. She is tasked with bringing an American point of view to the marketing firm. But Emily seems to struggle
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juggling with friends, work, and romance in the show. Her love life also becomes more complicated. This show has drama, comedy and romance. 2. Ginny and Georgia Ginny and Georgia find themselves in many romantic entanglements. Georgia is involved in a complicated love triangle and doesn’t know who she really wants to be with, while Ginny can’t get over her feelings for her best friend’s
brother. This show has both comedy and drama. 3. Bridgerton Bridgerton is a romantic period drama with an incredible cast, pretty costumes, and beautiful set designs. The show follows Daphne Bridgerton, the daughter of the powerful Bridgerton family, who steps into Regency London’s competitive marriage market. In hopes of finding true love like her parents, Daphne realizes that this may not
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be as simple as it seems. You’re absolutely going to love this show. It will be getting a second season. 4. Virgin River Virgin River follows the main characters Melinda Monroe and Jack Sheridan in their love story. Melinda Monroe answers an ad to work as a nurse practitioner in a remote town, thinking it will be the place to have a fresh start and leave her painful feelings behind. She meets someone named Jack
Sheridan, a local in the town. Melinda is surprised as she discovers that living in this town isn’t what she thought it would be like. This show has romance, drama and small-town charm to it. 5. Cook of Castamar This show is a Spanish period romantic drama. The Cook of Castamar follows the love story between the Duke of Castamar and a humble cook named Clara Belmonte. Clara is a talented cook who starts
working in the kitchen of the Duke of Castamar. The Duke is put in a situation by the King where he has to remarry someone. However, he refuses to remarry. The Duke soon notices Clara and admires her cooking and the two of them then begin their love story. There may be some shows that you have already heard of, and there may be some shows that are new to you, so give the new ones a watch!
What’s trending on #BookTok? Claudia Bruscia
If you use TikTok, you might have heard of BookTok. It consists of a growing community where social media users share their love for literature and recommend books. Here are some of the most popular books recommended by these avid readers: 1. The Song of Achilles by Madeline Miller
2. It Ends with Us by Colleen Hoover
York Times Bestselling Author, this heartbreaking novel dives into the life of Lily, a small-town girl who moved to Boston to start her own business as a recent college graduate. Soon enough, a handsome neurosurgeon named Ryle Kincaid catches her eye. Eventually, her new relationship becomes troubled by her past.
Written by a #1 New
3. We Were Liars by
This New York Times Bestseller, which also won the Orange Prize for Fiction, reimagines Homer’s work, the Iliad. This action-packed novel explores the tale of gods, immortal fame and a glorious love story.
ARTS
Two Hearts Apart
Melissa Deng (Instagram: @meiliiart)
E. Lockhart This suspense novel describes the summers of a girl named Cady, who is part of a very wealthy family. Her summers were marked by her time on her family’s island with her friends: Johnny, Mirren and Cat. However, in the summer of her fifteenth year, something happened to her. This novel follows her journey of putting the pieces back together
and finding the truth.
friendship and seven husbands. Monique 4. The Seven Hus- Grant soon learns that bands of Evelyn Hugo her own life has much by Taylor Jenkins in common with this Reid movie icon. This glamourous nov5. One of Us is Lying el recalls Evelyn Hugo’s by Karen M. McMadesire, to tell the truth nus about her life as a Hollywood icon through Described as an ada biography. Monique dictive mystery book, Grant, a newly single One of Us is Lying reand unknown reporter, counts the story of is chosen to divulge Hu- five students heading go’s fascinating life sto- to detention: Bronry marked by ambition, wyn, the brain, Addy,
Love Is In The Air Isabella Del Grosso
the beauty, Nate, the criminal, Cooper, the athlete, and Simon, the outcast. Four of these five students become suspects of Simon’s murder as he never makes it out of the classroom.
Lover of the Month ! Ihsane Fakhir
Two hearts apart will never part.
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Georgia
Jacques Wang (Instagram: @the_lonesome_jack) Do you still remember that night? I ran away after a big fight So broken and lost Didn’t know what I could do Walked into a bar Trying to drown in the dark Til you shot a smile From the corner of the booth
Do you still remember that night? When we drove past city light So, we can spend time together When that Lonestar came on We’re both trying to sing along Because we both knew They were singing ‘bout me and you Now, I wish to stay with you forever
You asked me for my name Greetings turned to drinks I asked you for a dance You were so pretty in that dress I know it might sound crazy But when our lips gently kissed I started to think Of wanting to be with you forever
Baby, I dunno why God made you mine Oh, what did I do? To deserve a woman like you Every time I look into your eyes I see the stars in my life Honey, your golden hair 'Minds me of that sweet summer air Every time you’re in my arms I can feel your love from your heart Now, I don’t wanna leave this cruel world Without you by my side I know you probably heard That life is a ride Then, if I am Carolina, Will you be my sweet Georgia?
Baby, I dunno why God made you mine Oh, what did I do? To deserve a woman like you Every time I look into your eyes I see the stars in my life Honey, your golden hair 'Minds me of that sweet summer air Every time you’re in my arms I can feel your love from your heart Then, if I am your Carolina, Will you be my sweet Georgia?
You’re the best thing that ever happened to me Darling, you’re my angel on Earth Before I get down on one knee Can I tell you this first?
Baby, I dunno why God made you mine Oh, what did I do? To deserve a woman like you Every time I look into your eyes I see the stars in my life Honey, your golden hair 'Minds me of that sweet summer air Every time you’re in my arms I can feel your love from your heart Now, I don’t wanna leave this cruel world Without you by my side I know you probably heard That life is a ride Then, if I am Carolina, Will you be my sweet Georgia? If I am Carolina, Will you be my sweet Georgia?
The totally (un)historical origin of Valentine’s Day Katya Jutras
As I sat in my cell, I pondered, “How did it come down to this?” The answer, actually, was quite simple. It was all because of Claudius. But maybe it started when I was ordained as a Bishop. Or maybe my fate was sealed when the word began to spread? Ah, no – it started with that lovely faithful couple. Let me explain. When Emperor Claudius decreed last year (271 A.D.) that the soldiers in his army would no longer be allowed to marry, I could not believe my ears! Of course, his rationale was obvious – for him, a married soldier was ‘soft’ and would not be as fierce in battle. Now, I may be a bit of the sentimental type, but I held to the belief that it is a person’s right to marry. One evening, as dusk
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was settling in the roads of Rome, the occasion presented itself to put my beliefs in action: a certain Marcus came knocking at my door. He and his beloved Priscila deeply desired to be married before his regiment was sent to a faraway border. His love seemed so earnest, and his eyes look so desperate - how could I refuse? Besides, I am a man of my convictions. The secret celebration took place the following evening, where they were united before God and men – hum, or should I say, before God and man¸ as I was the only witness… One thing led to another, and soon I was marrying Marcus’ friends, Aurelio and Cassia. And then it was Fabius and Gaia,
Claudius and Drusilla, Antony and Cleopatra…. hum no, that’s a different story. And before long, the inevitable occurred: Emperor Claudius caught word of my underground celebrations. Oh, the wrath in his eyes when I was dragged before him! Surely this is a man who has never known love! When he ordered me to stop officiating and confirm my oath by burning incense to the emperor, and I solemnly refused, he threw me in jail to be executed the following month. But little does he know, Claudius the Cruel, that by prohibiting me from uniting lovers, he made me find mine! Ah, I hear her footsteps. Here she comes now: the jailer’s daughter. She is the most beautiful maiden I have ever
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seen, with her long jetblack hair and eyes the colour of olives in summer! She has made my lonely cell burst with light, and my heart glows at the sound of her gentle laugh. After each long conversation we have, I recall that first couple I married and know that if I had to do it all over again – for the love of God, of my brethren, and my beloved – I would. Tonight is February 13th, the eve of my execution. I did not know how to tell her all my love in this last encounter, so I wrote a letter for her to open tomorrow. I signed it, from your Valentine.
Drunk Panda Roy Lesage
The Best of Montreal in 2021 Manan Suthar (Instagram: @manan_suthaar)
Woo the Insider winner! Red Velvet
I Love You Berry Much!
Joy Bello-Osagie (Instagram: @joyy_artt) Joy Bello-Osagie (Instagram: @joyy_artt)
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Woo the Insider runner-ups! First Valentine
I’m Falling in Love
As we watch the sun go down, I want to let you know, my love for you is forever; I'll never let you go.
I fall in love every day.
Kayla
You're the one I've been searching for, the one I've finally found; without you in my life, my world wouldn't go round. The love you bring into my heart, which is so true and kind, is something in no other I could truly find. Today isn't just an ordinary Valentine's Day. It's all about me and you, about the love we share, and how it will forever continue to grow. It's not all about the chocolates or the dozen roses; it's about the love we found. Even through the rough times, we always make it through; To be with you for eternity is all I want for me and you. All I want to say, on our very first Valentine's Day, is: I may not be your first love, but I promise, with all my heart, that I will be that one from up above, your one and only, true love!
Katya Jutras
I know, a bit much, right? But seriously, it’s true I woke up the other morning and fell in love With the streaks of watercolour paint in the sky Reminding me that the Creator is an artist I fall in love at the rhythm of raindrops And at the pace of an acorn becoming an oak Slow but steady, without rushing it, but with strength Appreciating every bud and branch I grow in love with the grass in springtime, Fall for the autumn leaves, Blush in the snow And my heart grows warm under the summer sun But you know, I fall in love with people too Smiles are what make me crack the most There’s something about joy that attracts Or when someone speaks of what they love And the spark of passion lights their eyes; When a random stranger on the street shows kindness to another stranger; To me, that is beauty Of course, I might be naïve, but I’m not blind to the pain either The questions about suffering, I have felt them too I have seen and cried and felt numb at the injustice that overwhelms this world And yet – When my friend trusts me enough to share their pain with me When I see hope in eyes that previously only reflect-
ed anger When I see my friend battling depression, radiant as she holds her newborn baby – as she holds life When I see someone forgive When I am forgiven Then I fall in love
house balcony and take in New York city’s views. Hopefully, Amelia will be by my side then too.
designed in a studio style. In the farthest right corner of the room is a single bed where I lay and dream of all the wonders of living in the Upper East Side. In the middle of the room is a blue sofa with a black coffee table in front of it. Across the wall is a wooden dresser with a small box television on top of it. Towards the left of the place is my kitchen. It consists of a small white fridge, an oven, and a microwave. Lastly, to end the fine royal tour of my chateau is my bathroom right in between the kitchen and the living room. Honestly, I hate living in this place but, I have been saving up from my job as a doorman. Hopefully, I can save enough money to move into the Upper East Side, but it might be impossible with the high rent. Oh well, I still have a lot of hard work to do before getting there. I grab some clean clothes to go to bed in, and I head for the bathroom.
I will keep my heart open To not be blind to the pain of those around me And though there is still so much, I need to learn about loving selflessly I grow at the speed of an oak Despite the broken branches, with every bud, there is hope And so today, I dare to fall in love.
The Money's Servant Tanjin Sultana There she is. The star of New York City’s talk is walking into the building. However, she’s not alone. She laughs under her breath quietly as boy #4 of the week whispers something into her ear. She’s laughing yet, her green eyes aren’t reciprocating the same. Her black hair is still shining as it was when she had left 3 hours ago. Even though her lipstick is smudged, her makeup is still flawless. Additionally, she makes all the expensive furniture in this room look faulty. She truly is a piece of work. She bids the guy farewell, and off she goes towards the elevators. Her tan legs glisten as she walks. God, even her dress hugged her curves perfectly. I can’t keep my eyes off of her. She stops walking and turns around. I knock out my daze and go back to my serious face. It seems I’m too late, though, because she shoots me a dirty look. I take a big gulp and look away in embarrassment. Tick, tick, tick… The clock finally strikes at 1, and I lock all the front doors. I hail myself a cab and tell the driver to go towards Hunts Point. I look outside the window and stare at all the large buildings and elegant houses passing by. They all have big windows, and the darkness of the night is brightened by the street lights lining across each side of the sidewalk. One day, just one day, I’ll be living in those homes. I will look out from my pent-
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“Here you are, sir,” the driver says as we arrive in front of my apartment building. “Thank you, have a good night,” I say as I hand him the money. I get out of the taxi, and I watch it disappear around the corner. I look around to see trash bags lined up on the sidewalk. On top of that trash, trash is scattered all over the roads. Used blunts, old newspapers, plastic bottles, you name it. In front of me, all the apartments are painted rusty red, and they seem to be falling apart. Even the one lamppost on the street is flickering, providing little to no light. This neighbourhood screams nothing but failed dreams. I walk up to my apartment and unlock the door with my key. I climb up the stairs and reach my doorstep. I unlock the door with another key. The place invites me with its cold darkness. “Where is the goddamn light,” I mutter as I struggle to find the light switch. After trailing my hands across the wall for about 30 seconds, I find the light switch. Flicking it upwards, the apartment finally reveals itself. The apartment is
Wednesday, April 1st |16 Winter 2020 | Issue 3 1 February | Winter 2022 | Issue
I wash my face and brush my teeth. I have to go to bed early because I have a shift at 8. I barely get enough sleep, and honestly, my eye bags are starting to make me look like a raccoon. I change into my clean clothes and head straight to bed. While lying there, I look up at the canvas wall art of Manhattan. I got it at a garage sale for $7. In my opinion, it was a steal. Even though my only view from my window is the backside of another apartment, I, at least, get to go to sleep while having all the beautifully lit buildings of Manhattan in front of me. Ever
since I was younger, I always admired the Upper East Side. I would sometimes accompany my father to his work, which ironically was also a doorman for the same building. Talk about generations of Smith’s family being doormen. It feels just like yesterday… “Hey, dad, you’re meaning to tell me that you work in such a fancy place,” I said as I looked around at all the expensive furniture and art surrounding the lobby of the building. “Yes, my boy, maybe one day you and I could also be living in one of these buildings,” my father said as he smiled widely at me with his best and only suit on. “However, there’s no easy way to reach success. You must work hard, Noah.” Ever since that day, I have kept my father’s words in my head. Even though he is no longer alive due to dying of old age, I promise to fulfill his dreams by working hard. Slowly but surely, I doze off with vivid images of Manhattan crowding my head. Beep! Beep! Beep! I wake up to the sound of the alarm from my phone. I hit “Stop” and lazily get out of bed. I look at my phone, and it is currently 7:15, which means I have 15 minutes until I have to get in a taxi. I quickly wash my face and change into the suit I thrifted years ago. Finally, before leaving my house, I grab an apple on my way out. I hail a cab and tell the driver to go towards 1136 fifth avenue. As he drives, I notice that the dirty streets turn into clean sidewalks and dump trucks turn into the lush and green Central Park. Little old apartments turn into modern skyscrapers. ring ring ring I pick up my phone and answer, “Hello?” “Hello Noah, it’s your landlord here. I am calling because your rent is overdue for three weeks. Do you have the money?” “Yes, sir, I’ll hand it in tomorrow afternoon.” “Ok, you better pay me tomorrow, or you’re getting kicked out.” “Yes, sir.” beep To be honest, I did not have the money. What am I gonna do? I paid the driver and got out of the taxi. I go inside the building and await ahead my long day of opening doors, greeting people and delivering packages to the residents. It’s been ten hours, and I still have not seen Amelia. Maybe she’s already caught up with another guy. Sigh. My job is so dull without her around. After four hours, she finally shows up. Not to my surprise, she’s also with a guy. She’s still in her work clothes and looks good as ever. As I continue to admire her from afar, I notice the guy beginning to get closer to kiss her. I admit that a bit of jealousy is sparking inside me. However, she looks uncomfortable. My heart rate starts to increase. He kisses her, and she seems to be struggling to get him off. I immediately begin to walk over with my fists clenched. His hands trail down her body, and she begins to scream, “Help!” I run over and throw the guy onto the floor. Anger takes over my body. I go in for a punch and continue to throw them at his face with my vision blurring, hands getting bruised, and breath getting short. “Don’t.” punch “You.” punch “Dare..” punch “Touch.” punch “Her.” punch “Again.” “Please stop! The police are on their way,” she says.
Her delicate voice stops me from going further. I get up and notice the mess I have created. The man’s face is unrecognizable. Oh well, he deserves it. The police arrive on the scene and take both my and Amelia’s statements about what just happened. They take the man and the building’s CCTV footage to their station. After they leave, I notice that Amelia is sitting on the couch, looking ahead with her eyes blank. “Ma’am, are you okay?” I say politely. “Not the first it has happened, so I think I’ll be fine,” she says with a hint of sadness in her tone. “You have to be careful who you trust. Some people tend to only show you what you want to see until their real selves are exposed.” “You are right, thank you-” she looks at my name tag, “Mr. Smith.” “It is my duty,” I say, “I must go back to working, have a goodnight, Mrs. Walter.” I begin to walk back to my desk. “Wait, Mr. Smith!” she yells.
dainty but looks expensive. I start to think back to my rent problems. In less than 12 hours, I have to give the money that I don’t have, or I’ll be homeless. I close the box and put it into my pocket. Miss Walter probably has a closet filled with these; she will never notice. Plus, by selling the watch, maybe I’ll be able to get out of that rut that I live in. I walk upstairs and go towards the bathroom. “What took you so long?” Amelia says while holding the rubbing alcohol.
I turn around, “Yes?”
“Oh, I went towards the right instead of the left,” I say while laughing nervously.
“Your hands.” “What about my hands?” “Tonight, you saved me; the least I could do is invite you back to my place and help heal your wounds. ” Hold on. Am I dreaming? Is THE Amelia Walter inviting me to her house? “Sir?” she says, cutting me off my thoughts. “Yes, that would be very helpful, ” I say in a calm voice even though I’m the opposite from it. “However, my shift still hasn’t ended, so I’ll be at your door in 20 minutes.” “No worries, I’ll get the bandages and rubbing alcohol ready,” she says and then walks off to the elevators. This is definitely my lucky day… After the anticipating 20 minutes, the clock strikes 1, and I waste no time making my way towards her apartment. I get onto the elevator and press floor number 14. ting I look down at my phone and see a message from my landlord, “Do not forget the money tomorrow.” Shoot. With all this chaos, I almost forgot about the deadline for the rent. I really don’t know what to do. I’m going to be kicked out and have nowhere to live. The elevator door opens to Amelia’s penthouse suite. I have already been here to drop off packages but, the place wows me every time. It looks like the inside of the Louvre in Paris. Never been, but the Google images are a spitting picture of her penthouse. “Hello? Miss. Walter? It’s me, Mr. Smith!” I yell out into the large empty home. “I’m upstairs to the bathroom on the left!” she yells back. “Alright, I’ll come up!” As I make my way towards her stairs, I notice a red velvet Cartier box sitting on the coffee table in front of her sofa. For some reason, I start walking towards it instead. I open the box, and looking back at me is the most beautiful watch I have ever seen. It is silver and
“Alright, well, wait here, I forgot the bandages,” she says with a smile and leaves the bathroom. Phew. She did not look suspicious at all. After waiting about twenty minutes, she still hasn’t come back with the bandages. What’s taking her so long? I walk downstairs, and instant regret creeps up in my body. The cops are here. “You’re under arrest, Mr. Noah Smith,” the cop says while two others handcuff me. “I don’t understand. Why am I getting arrested?” I say in panic even though I clearly knew. “You don’t understand? When you took longer than usual in coming upstairs, I was suspicious. However, once you used that stupid excuse of yours, I knew something was wrong,” Amelia says. “So, I went downstairs, and sure enough, the Cartier box was gone and to confirm my suspicions, the house footage caught you stealing.” I have no words. “You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can be used against you in court. You have the right to talk to a lawyer for advice before we ask you any questions. If you cannot afford a lawyer, one will be appointed for you before any questioning if you wish,” the police officer says while dragging me towards the elevator. “One more thing, don’t go telling others who to trust when you can’t even be trusted yourself, hypocrite,” she says while yanking out the box from the pocket inside of my jacket. “I’m sorry,” I whisper, and the elevator doors close. It’s the last time I’ll see her beautiful face. I put my head down in shame for the rest of the elevator ride down. I couldn’t keep my father’s word. We walk outside the building, and I look back at the building for a moment. This is the last time I’ll be seeing this beautiful structure as well. The policeman jerks me forward and pushes me inside the car. As they drive, I notice the borough of Manhattan fading behind me. This is finally the end of my dreams. Goodbye, Manhattan.
Wednesday, Wednesday, February April 16 1st||Winter Winter2022 2020||Issue Issue13
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FUN PAGE Aquarius (Jan.20-Feb.18):
Pisces (Feb.19-Mar.20):
Aries (Mar.21-Apr.19):
Taurus (Apr.20-May.20):
Gemini (May.21-Jun.20):
Cancer (Jun.21-Jul.22):
Before panicking about something that hasn’t happened, let it happen. Then panic.
More than enough is too much unless we’re talking about love or candy.
Love is in the air! Try breathing through a tissue.
When in doubt, follow the doves and the sweeping romantic music.
On a first date, just be yourself! Identity theft is not a joke, Jim.
Love is choosing the people who get to annoy you every day.
Leo (Jul.23-Aug.22):
Virgo (Aug.23-Sep.22):
Libra (Sep.23-Oct.22):
Scorpio (Oct.23-Nov.21):
Sagittarius (Nov.22-
Capricorn (Dec.22-Jan.19):
Ask your friends for a hug: they probably need one too.
Someone will find true love this season. Could be you.
The one you’re looking for is coming! You’ve been warned.
In the search for love and for jeans, hold on to a good find.
Give yourself a hug. It’ll look weird, but you’ll (maybe) feel better.
In love, as in life, your problems will prove to be your greatest obstacles.
CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIE RECIPE Yields: ~ 36 cookies
Dec.21):
PICKUP LINES
Horoscopes by Vanier's Oracle
DISCLAIMER: Do NOT use some of those pick-up lines IRL •
1. Is your name Earl Grey? Because you are a hot-tea!
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2. Are you religious? Because you are the answer to my prayers!
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3. People call me Jack, but you can call me tonight ;)
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4. Are you a loan? Because you are gaining my interest!
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5. Kiss me if I’m wrong, but pigs can fly, right?
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6. Hey girl/boy, are you a beaver? Cause daaaaaaaaamn!
1 cup of softened unsalted butter (slightly melted)
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7. That’s a nice shirt. Can I try it on after sex?
1 cup of brown sugar
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8. Can I have your signature? Every masterpiece has one.
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9. I’m about to learn the most important dates in history. Wanna be
Prep. time: ~ 25 minutes Bake time: 7 - 9 minutes = soft/slightly underbaked / 12 - 14 minutes = more welldone Ingredients: 2 ¼ a cup of all-purpose flour
½ cup of white sugar 2 eggs
one of them? •
2 cups of semi-sweet chocolate chips (I use Chipits)
10. Hey, you are the second best looking girl/guy in the bar! *then walk away*
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Pickup lines by Jacques Wang
1 teaspoon of baking soda
WORD SEARCH
1 teaspoon of salt Directions: 1. Preheat oven at 375 degrees F 2. In a large bowl, mix together the softened butter, sugar, eggs and vanilla extract. 3. In a separate bowl or in a measuring cup like I do, mix flour, salt and baking soda. 4. Mix your wet and dry ingredients including chocolate chips and/or other add-ons 5. Chill cookie dough for around 30 minutes in the fridge 6. Scoop out your dough (works best with an ice cream scooper), on a pan lined with parchment paper 7. Bake for 6-8 minutes for soft cookies or until slightly golden brown Enjoy! Recipe by Talia Atallah
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Wednesday, February April 1st |16 Winter 2020 | Issue 3 1 | Winter 2022 | Issue
Word search by Roy Lesage