A frigid night on the water, clear sky, city lights, good food, great friends, who could ask for anything more?
December 16, 2008
December 8, 2008
My Take on Twilight - The Latest Best-Selling Fad [N. Clark]
Stories have been around for as long as man has been around to tell them. Passed down through spoken word, tales of magnificent gods and mortals who were close enough to that status have remained embedded among us since a creative mind thought them up, or a meticulous person took the time to recall the events that he had seen occur before him. Later, such things were written down; ink flowed onto paper, the writing an intimate exposure of more than the words, but also the face behind them. Efficiency soon pushed aside such romantic thoughts, however, leaving behind the impersonal coldness of a printing press’ mindless repetition. Eventually stories were everywhere; among the rich and the poor alike, feeding the imagination of children and supporting the failing creativity of adults. Yet there were a few among many which spoke to the masses, earning themselves a higher status among the multitude of devoted readers who placed the books on a towering pedestal. Some have been there for centuries: the works of William Shakespeare, Jane Austen and the like. More recently, though, we may recall the widespread popularity of the Harry Potter series, and directly before that, the Lord of the Rings novels. At present, it is Stephanie Meyer’s Twilight series which draws such a consuming, fanatic obsession.
If there is a formula for successful sales, S. Meyers has taken whatever rudimentary knowledge most authors may possess and elaborated, rewriting it until she could be certain that it would never fail. Tapping into the hormonally overwrought minds of teenage girls could have easily been foreseen; following in the paths of many previous romance writers, she presented her readers with what they desired most: a physically young man with flawless features, an intelligent mind and, most importantly, and all-consuming, never-ending, fated-to-be love for one woman. Then, recognizing our fascination with the dark, brooding stereotype of vampires, she added that to the equation. The undead make the perfect anti-hero; they are, by nature, monsters, and yet, with careful tweaking, they can be given human emotions and a heavy conscience which provides them with such heart-wrenching torment thatno emotionally connected person could possibly remain unmoved. Add to that the easily read style of writing and just enough action to appeal to one’s more adventurous side, and suddenly those who aspire to become a published author have an obvious path to follow, complete with huge directional signs and billboards.
That is not to say that Twilight is a glittering diamond of perfection among coarse stones and craggy rocks. Money and fame may have been awarded to S. Meyers fairly unconditionally, but there is still a darker side to it all. Amongst grammatical errors and faulty English that slipped through her editor’s net, behind plot holes and a story that is, at times, far too removed from reality, lies a frightening, dark message. S. Meyers’ female lead, Bella Swan, is not the strong, independent woman that we have come to respect and admire in this day and age. Within a few short days, she becomes completely dependent on a creature who could kill her as easily as we may squash a particularly abhorrent insect between our fingertips. Just the thought of being in a separate room from Edward brings depression to her thoughts; when he leaves her, she throws herself off a cliff, into the roaring fury of the ocean below. Her survival becomes secondary to her longing for Edward. She would give up anything to be with him: her family, her friends, her life. There is such a complete imbalance of power in the relationship that it poses a danger for anyone trying to imitate it. Bella sacrifices too much, and receives little in return. Her body plays host to the offspring of a vampire, whose violent tendencies are little suppressed; there would be no normal birthing process for her. S. Meyers drives a hard-hitting anti-abortion message home as Bella would rather have the child eat its way out of her belly like a chick pecking an egg, leaving it broken and destroyed, than consider a different option. Edward’s stalker-like tendencies in the first book complete the dark, disturbing portrait of what lies behind Twilight’s glowing outer shell.
S. Meyers’ novels must be taken with a grain of salt, as with most others. It is important to remember that appearances can be deceiving, and perfect, plastic exteriors can conceal horrors within. Twilight may seem innocent, a tale in which vampires sparkle in the sunlight and true love perseveres, but a critical eye may find evidence to the contrary. Duplicity resides within the series, each joyful moment juxtaposed against a darker, less pleasant one. Nothing is perfect, despite what S. Meyers’ most devoted fans would have you believe. Greatness can be drawn about a person or object like a cloak, covering any disfigurations; the more powerful the one, the more hideous the other. The brightest sun always casts the darkest shadows.
November 14, 2008
November 13, 2008
November 12, 2008
Grade 9's Go To Work - Take Our Kids to Work Day [Y. Livingston]
On November 5th at the 14th Annual Take Our Kids to Work Day, all grade 9’s were given the opportunity to spend a day “at work”. Across the country, students set out to spend the day with Mom, Dad, Grandparent, Uncle, Aunt or friend to experience a work place setting, observe, ask questions and understand the importance of education, skills development and experience the world of work!. At Delview Secondary, students shared their thoughts and experiences as part of a Health & Careers 9 assignment.
Callum goes to “Eureka”
Spending the day on a TV show set with his Grandmother, Dixie Cutler was an amazing opportunity for Callum. His Grandmother is a “Unit Publicist” and her job is to arrange for press interviews with the actors, producers and/or directors as well as organize the written and photographic materials for the studio or TV network to advertise the show. A university degree in public relations, communications or journalism would be excellent preparation for this work.
Callum’s favourite part of the day was looking around at the sets for Eureka. He says the job of Publicist involves a lot of standing around waiting for information which he’s not sure he would enjoy. However, he had a chance to watch actors at work and in particular the “Special Effects Coordinator” whose work was very interesting to Callum.
Ashleen: a long commute to work!
Going to work with Dad on Wednesday morning involved going downstairs into the family’s garage. Ashleen’s Dad has owned and operated his own printing company “CanDel Printing” for the past 12 years. He’s very busy and has always relied on his daughters to help out with a wide variety of work – heat and screen printing of logos on clothing, design & printing menus, flyers, brochures, business cards and much more.
Ashleen says creativity and accuracy are very important – she looks forward to her media arts courses. Some of the printing machines require special training to run but a number of the jobs rely on computer aided design skills. Mr. Kumar also points out that when you run your own business, you must have knowledge and skills in billing and accounts management and understand how to market your business and provide good customer service.
A Day In A Metal Fabrication Shop for Dylan!
Dylan’s uncle Dave Humphrey designs and builds screening machinery for companies around the world. His machines are used to sort and size a variety of materials in the Forestry and Grain industries. His fabrication shop BM & M Screening Solutions is located in Port Kells and is a family owned business. Dylan enjoys being in the manufacturing area. He said something new is always happening as the huge machinery goes from one stage to the next in production – “sparks are always flying”.
Dave has seen a number of changes over the years with manual drafting and design being taken over by CAD and now 3D imagery computer modeling. Following high school, students can enroll in Mechanical Engineering Programs at places like BCIT. The company also hires grads trained in welding and metal fabrication. Dylan’s uncle encourages students to look into ACE-IT partnerships as a great way to get started in these trades.
Helping Others at Delta Community Living Society!
A very special day for Taylor working alongside her cousin Brandy Chapman in her job as Community Support Worker as she guides and helps young men and women with various challenges in life to enjoy a day away from their homes
The day started with Taylor helping to do a newspaper route, then back to the centre to help with lunch preparation. The afternoon includes helping with another job folding and preparing boxes. As Brandy says, this work requires patience and caring as you help with food and personal care. You have to work with people with a variety of challenges and getting training in a community support program at places like Douglas College will help you be prepared. Besides a caring personality, Brandy also noted that you need a special driver’s license to drive up to 15 passengers, First Aid and specialized training in Job Coaching.
Taylor says she enjoyed her day with her cousin as she got to meet some very special people and understand how important this job is!
Learning about Vancity Financial Services!
Rebekah’s Mom, Leah has worked at Vancity for the for the past 19 years and is a Financial Services Representative. Rebekah noted that everything moves at a fast pace, starting with counting cash and observing as the ATM machine was set-up and organized for the day. It is important to be organized, good at math and have good people skills. Leah says that Vancity provides training to high school graduates who want to learn financial services but there are programs in financial planning at places like BCIT that are also good preparation for this work.
Rebekah learned a very important piece of information about the people who come to Vancity for financial services such as bill paying and savings accounts etc., they are not customers but members and Rebekah enjoyed watching her Mom help all the members that she met on the job!
…and what about those who couldn’t go to the workplace?
Grade 9’s at Delview Secondary, who were not able to spend the day on the job, worked in groups in the school’s Career Centre completing an assignment and discussion about career ideas, work preparation and education planning.
Callum goes to “Eureka”
Spending the day on a TV show set with his Grandmother, Dixie Cutler was an amazing opportunity for Callum. His Grandmother is a “Unit Publicist” and her job is to arrange for press interviews with the actors, producers and/or directors as well as organize the written and photographic materials for the studio or TV network to advertise the show. A university degree in public relations, communications or journalism would be excellent preparation for this work.
Callum’s favourite part of the day was looking around at the sets for Eureka. He says the job of Publicist involves a lot of standing around waiting for information which he’s not sure he would enjoy. However, he had a chance to watch actors at work and in particular the “Special Effects Coordinator” whose work was very interesting to Callum.
Ashleen: a long commute to work!
Going to work with Dad on Wednesday morning involved going downstairs into the family’s garage. Ashleen’s Dad has owned and operated his own printing company “CanDel Printing” for the past 12 years. He’s very busy and has always relied on his daughters to help out with a wide variety of work – heat and screen printing of logos on clothing, design & printing menus, flyers, brochures, business cards and much more.
Ashleen says creativity and accuracy are very important – she looks forward to her media arts courses. Some of the printing machines require special training to run but a number of the jobs rely on computer aided design skills. Mr. Kumar also points out that when you run your own business, you must have knowledge and skills in billing and accounts management and understand how to market your business and provide good customer service.
A Day In A Metal Fabrication Shop for Dylan!
Dylan’s uncle Dave Humphrey designs and builds screening machinery for companies around the world. His machines are used to sort and size a variety of materials in the Forestry and Grain industries. His fabrication shop BM & M Screening Solutions is located in Port Kells and is a family owned business. Dylan enjoys being in the manufacturing area. He said something new is always happening as the huge machinery goes from one stage to the next in production – “sparks are always flying”.
Dave has seen a number of changes over the years with manual drafting and design being taken over by CAD and now 3D imagery computer modeling. Following high school, students can enroll in Mechanical Engineering Programs at places like BCIT. The company also hires grads trained in welding and metal fabrication. Dylan’s uncle encourages students to look into ACE-IT partnerships as a great way to get started in these trades.
Helping Others at Delta Community Living Society!
A very special day for Taylor working alongside her cousin Brandy Chapman in her job as Community Support Worker as she guides and helps young men and women with various challenges in life to enjoy a day away from their homes
The day started with Taylor helping to do a newspaper route, then back to the centre to help with lunch preparation. The afternoon includes helping with another job folding and preparing boxes. As Brandy says, this work requires patience and caring as you help with food and personal care. You have to work with people with a variety of challenges and getting training in a community support program at places like Douglas College will help you be prepared. Besides a caring personality, Brandy also noted that you need a special driver’s license to drive up to 15 passengers, First Aid and specialized training in Job Coaching.
Taylor says she enjoyed her day with her cousin as she got to meet some very special people and understand how important this job is!
Learning about Vancity Financial Services!
Rebekah’s Mom, Leah has worked at Vancity for the for the past 19 years and is a Financial Services Representative. Rebekah noted that everything moves at a fast pace, starting with counting cash and observing as the ATM machine was set-up and organized for the day. It is important to be organized, good at math and have good people skills. Leah says that Vancity provides training to high school graduates who want to learn financial services but there are programs in financial planning at places like BCIT that are also good preparation for this work.
Rebekah learned a very important piece of information about the people who come to Vancity for financial services such as bill paying and savings accounts etc., they are not customers but members and Rebekah enjoyed watching her Mom help all the members that she met on the job!
…and what about those who couldn’t go to the workplace?
Grade 9’s at Delview Secondary, who were not able to spend the day on the job, worked in groups in the school’s Career Centre completing an assignment and discussion about career ideas, work preparation and education planning.
November 9, 2008
Rhinoceros [N. Clark]
One of the most exciting aspects of drama class is the fieldtrips. Previously, Mrs. Hillman would take her students to see performances at the Vancouver Playhouse Theatre. That is no longer possible. However, the ever-resourceful drama teacher has managed to work her way around that restriction. Most recently, her drama students from grades ten to twelve had the unique opportunity of visiting the Burnaby campus of the Simon Fraser University in order to watch a free matinee performance.
Written by Eugene Lonesco, Rhinoceros is a highly unusual play. It belongs to a school of drama which was aptly named the Theatre of the Absurd. Unsurprisingly, the premise of the play makes little sense when taken literally.
Over the course of three acts, the inhabitants of a small French town slowly begin to turn into rhinoceroses, one at a time. In the end, the only human being left is Berenger, the town drunk; an amicable, likeable fellow who is in love with one of his co-workers, Daisy. She is the last to succumb to the transformation.
For those who care to look for the deeper meaning of this sort of work, they will find that they are several subtle undertones which relate to the second World War. While the symbolism is not so evident as to nearly strike the audience’s collective face with the force of its intent, those who are more accustomed to searching for it will not find it too deeply hidden.
Berenger summarizes much of the fear felt by those who were being persecuted by the Nazis when he says, “those who try to hang on to their individuality always come to a bad end.” However, he stays true to himself, and refuses to conform. “I will not capitulate!” He cries.
The play was performed amazingly well, by an extremely talented little cast. One of the actors, Stephanie Henderson, assisted Mrs. Hillman and her students with Delview’s production of Grease last year. Those who went on the fieldtrip have Stephanie to thank for the experience, as she was gracious enough to extend the invitation to them.
SFU is home to many talented actors and actresses. Rhinoceros certainly is not the only play that they will perform this year, although it may be the only one that Delview students get to see. Still, if they have the opportunity to do so, dropping in on another performance would not be a waste of time. Almost certainly they would enjoy themselves immensely, and perhaps they might find an important life lesson amongst all the theatrical prose.
Written by Eugene Lonesco, Rhinoceros is a highly unusual play. It belongs to a school of drama which was aptly named the Theatre of the Absurd. Unsurprisingly, the premise of the play makes little sense when taken literally.
Over the course of three acts, the inhabitants of a small French town slowly begin to turn into rhinoceroses, one at a time. In the end, the only human being left is Berenger, the town drunk; an amicable, likeable fellow who is in love with one of his co-workers, Daisy. She is the last to succumb to the transformation.
For those who care to look for the deeper meaning of this sort of work, they will find that they are several subtle undertones which relate to the second World War. While the symbolism is not so evident as to nearly strike the audience’s collective face with the force of its intent, those who are more accustomed to searching for it will not find it too deeply hidden.Berenger summarizes much of the fear felt by those who were being persecuted by the Nazis when he says, “those who try to hang on to their individuality always come to a bad end.” However, he stays true to himself, and refuses to conform. “I will not capitulate!” He cries.
The play was performed amazingly well, by an extremely talented little cast. One of the actors, Stephanie Henderson, assisted Mrs. Hillman and her students with Delview’s production of Grease last year. Those who went on the fieldtrip have Stephanie to thank for the experience, as she was gracious enough to extend the invitation to them.
SFU is home to many talented actors and actresses. Rhinoceros certainly is not the only play that they will perform this year, although it may be the only one that Delview students get to see. Still, if they have the opportunity to do so, dropping in on another performance would not be a waste of time. Almost certainly they would enjoy themselves immensely, and perhaps they might find an important life lesson amongst all the theatrical prose.
October 9, 2008
The Significance of "Thanks For Giving" [N. Clark]
We are never too young to save the world, or to help the people who live in it. Everyone can make a difference; even the smallest donation or the slightest effort is significant.
Delview Secondary gives students the opportunity to have a positive effect on the lives of many people. The Thanks 4 Giving canned food drive supports both Deltassist and the Surrey Food Bank, reaching people who live in poverty from both communities.
Because it is a food drive, Delview enables anyone living in Delta to help without the inconvenience of leaving their home. Every single can or other non-perishable food item is greatly appreciated, so even someone with a low income who does not have much food to spare can participate.
Since Thanks 4 Giving’s debut in 1992, students have successfully collected over 10,000 cans each year. Last year the record was broken, as canvassers brought back over 14,000 food items. This year Delview set yet another record, with a total of 16,220.
Perhaps the most important statistic, however, was the number of students participating. This time 434 people helped, either by canvassing or working behind the scenes, like the hard-working yet oft-overlooked organizing committee, which was a 14% increase from the previous year. A huge majority participated; 74% of the entire student body!
The reason for such a large percentage is not a secret; besides being a great way to give back to the community, Thanks 4 Giving is a ton of fun. An atmosphere reminiscent of parties and dances surrounds the entire event.
Because the groups of canvassers are chosen by the participants, and thus generally consist of close friends, the door-to-door portion of Thanks 4 Giving becomes less like a chore and more enjoyable.
When canvassers arrive back at the school they are provided with free doughnuts and pop, giving students a sugar high that lasts throughout the rest of the event.
In the hour or so before the total number of cans is tallied, students are free to hang out with friends, take an insane amount of pictures, and, in general, do as they please.
Prizes are offered, and winners chosen through a random draw. Winning is extremely exciting; this year students received tickets to either a BC Lions game or a show at the Omnimax.
By the time the final number is revealed, there is very visible aura of excitement and anticipation surrounding each and every participant. There is not a single person in the building who does not feel absolutely amazing when they see just how many cans they collected.
The best part about Thanks 4 Giving, however, is that the moment it ends people are already looking forward to the next one.
Delview Secondary gives students the opportunity to have a positive effect on the lives of many people. The Thanks 4 Giving canned food drive supports both Deltassist and the Surrey Food Bank, reaching people who live in poverty from both communities.
Because it is a food drive, Delview enables anyone living in Delta to help without the inconvenience of leaving their home. Every single can or other non-perishable food item is greatly appreciated, so even someone with a low income who does not have much food to spare can participate.
Since Thanks 4 Giving’s debut in 1992, students have successfully collected over 10,000 cans each year. Last year the record was broken, as canvassers brought back over 14,000 food items. This year Delview set yet another record, with a total of 16,220.
Perhaps the most important statistic, however, was the number of students participating. This time 434 people helped, either by canvassing or working behind the scenes, like the hard-working yet oft-overlooked organizing committee, which was a 14% increase from the previous year. A huge majority participated; 74% of the entire student body!
The reason for such a large percentage is not a secret; besides being a great way to give back to the community, Thanks 4 Giving is a ton of fun. An atmosphere reminiscent of parties and dances surrounds the entire event.
Because the groups of canvassers are chosen by the participants, and thus generally consist of close friends, the door-to-door portion of Thanks 4 Giving becomes less like a chore and more enjoyable.
When canvassers arrive back at the school they are provided with free doughnuts and pop, giving students a sugar high that lasts throughout the rest of the event.
In the hour or so before the total number of cans is tallied, students are free to hang out with friends, take an insane amount of pictures, and, in general, do as they please.
Prizes are offered, and winners chosen through a random draw. Winning is extremely exciting; this year students received tickets to either a BC Lions game or a show at the Omnimax.
By the time the final number is revealed, there is very visible aura of excitement and anticipation surrounding each and every participant. There is not a single person in the building who does not feel absolutely amazing when they see just how many cans they collected.
The best part about Thanks 4 Giving, however, is that the moment it ends people are already looking forward to the next one.
July 1, 2008
Grad 2008 [J. Kung]
*For access to photos and videos, click on images in this article!
For only the second time in Delview's history, students walked out of our school as Graduates, young men and women, ready to take on the world. Graduating is quite an accomplishment at any school, but doing so under the conditions of construction and reconfiguration... well let's just say - HATS OFF TO YOU (note: the "no hat" rule is still firmly in place)!
As you will see in the photos and videos (click: photos1 / photos2), the evening began with the second annual "Parade of the Graduates" which got the crowd of dedicated parents, friends, relatives, and
total strangers roaring with applause. Inside, scholarships and certificates were handed out. It all ended in traditional fashion with the "throwing of the caps" (see the video) which came just after our Valedictorian's (Rummy M.) speech.
"We shall not cease from exploration, and the end of all our exploring will be to arrive where we started and know the place for the first time."
T. S. Eliot
***Thanks to the Commencement Committee for organizing another amazing celebration of our grads. Thanks so much to Rahmath K. and Alia A. for spending almost 25 hours on scanning and putting together baby, grade 8, and grad photos as a backdrop for our graduates walking across the stage to receive their certificates. This went unmentioned in the credits of the program (which wrongly attributed the slide presentation to one Mr. Kung).
Finally, a warm congratulations and thank you to one of our graduates, Webmaster Edwin who made this website what it is today. You will be missed!
June 1, 2008
Delview at its Finest: Construction is Over! [N. Clark]
After many, many long years, the construction at Delview is complete at last. We can finally rejoice in the conspicuous lack of dust, classrooms that smell like tar, tractors driving through the few of our hallways that aren't blocked off and classes that change rooms several times in one year. So what do we have to show for all of the trouble we've undergone? Well, there isn't much of the old Delview left to see.
To start with, our entire school is much safer thanks to the seismographic upgrading. We have a fancy new foyer with a snazzy modern office attached. Every hallway sports new lockers sans dents, rust and graffiti. Future scientists can enjoy the recently redone science classrooms, now complete with emergency equipment, gas valves, sinks and other such items. Our big gym is the best in our entire region and our small gym isn't half bad either; excepting, of course, the instances when the smell is so horrible it's nearly suffocating because the guys' gym class has just left. The drama studio has been relocated from Mrs. Hillman's English class into a huge new room that was built just for it, including a sound/lighting booth and an adjustable stage. Even the metalwork room has been updated. Finally, our old, circular library has been replaced with a bigger, rectangular one. It would be boring, but the blues and reds included in the colour scheme keep out the monotony that most libraries induce.
Whew. It's definitely a lot, but it took so long to get to this point that the changes seem almost gradual. A Delview without construction workers is hard to imagine, but right now it's the reality. Those guys deserve a lot of thanks. They've been there right from the beginning, and our school would not be what it is without them. At some point in the future, we may even have to thank them for the continuation of our lives. Who knows when an earthquake may occur that, had it been in the past, would have caused Delview to collapse on top of us?
Future students may not be aware of the magnitude of the changes that Delview has undergone. Hopefully, though, they'll at least be somewhat appreciative of just how much better our school is now.
To start with, our entire school is much safer thanks to the seismographic upgrading. We have a fancy new foyer with a snazzy modern office attached. Every hallway sports new lockers sans dents, rust and graffiti. Future scientists can enjoy the recently redone science classrooms, now complete with emergency equipment, gas valves, sinks and other such items. Our big gym is the best in our entire region and our small gym isn't half bad either; excepting, of course, the instances when the smell is so horrible it's nearly suffocating because the guys' gym class has just left. The drama studio has been relocated from Mrs. Hillman's English class into a huge new room that was built just for it, including a sound/lighting booth and an adjustable stage. Even the metalwork room has been updated. Finally, our old, circular library has been replaced with a bigger, rectangular one. It would be boring, but the blues and reds included in the colour scheme keep out the monotony that most libraries induce.
Whew. It's definitely a lot, but it took so long to get to this point that the changes seem almost gradual. A Delview without construction workers is hard to imagine, but right now it's the reality. Those guys deserve a lot of thanks. They've been there right from the beginning, and our school would not be what it is without them. At some point in the future, we may even have to thank them for the continuation of our lives. Who knows when an earthquake may occur that, had it been in the past, would have caused Delview to collapse on top of us?
Future students may not be aware of the magnitude of the changes that Delview has undergone. Hopefully, though, they'll at least be somewhat appreciative of just how much better our school is now.
May 7, 2008
The Wake-Up Call of My Life [N. Dutt]
Up until April the 7th of this year, to some extent, I felt quite carefree. After my third attempt, I had finally earned my novice-stage driving license. I was filled with some of the self-confidence that had withered away over the past year through mediocre grades, failed crushes and employment hardships. I now felt a sense of belonging with the rest of my graduating class, especially my friends who had their own N licenses, the pleasure of being able to take care of myself (as well as the occasional passenger) on the road, and the glory of being complimented by everyone I knew about my newfound independence. However, I received a very loud wake-up call the day that Kevin Brooks wheeled his way into the Delview gymnasium.
Kevin began his presentation by asking the question of who amongst the students in attendance could drive, a question which had me raising my hand with pride and eagerness. Kevin then spoke with a very upbeat tone in his voice, a tone that had me listening very attentively, talking about his very exciting and adventurous high school years. While there were elements of his life I desired to have in my own, including his athletic ability and his social skills, there were other aspects of it that I felt fortunate not to be carrying with me, such as his struggle to pass every course in school and his nature to take unnecessary risks. I wasn't sure why he was so quick to reveal the wild, ruthless side of his life (or why he was smiling so much while doing it), but as the presentation was inching to its peak, it was becoming more and more obvious why he did so.
After working up our emotions a few times, a guilt-ridden Kevin finally revealed the gory and heartbreaking details of his alcohol-induced accident and the aftermath that followed. He even went so far as to show us the scars of the accident and the hospital treatment that saved his life. I have had only a few horrifying nightmares in my life, but when compared to Kevin's factual experience, my nightmares resembled heaven. However, Kevin's worst scars weren't the ones he carried on his wheelchair-bound frame; his worst ones were those he carried in his mind. The loss of his ability to walk (let alone participate in another sport), his innocence in the eyes of the law, and his childhood friend left me in a state of sympathy and reflection.
When I walked out the gym that day, I thought of his description of the situation with his little sister (who were 12 years apart in age) and how miserable they both were thanks to his paralysis. I thought of my little sister, whom I share a 10-year difference in age with, as well as the activities we could never do if I too ended up a victim of making bad choices. I also began to think of other things I could never do if I made the choice to drive drunk, including playing rugby, finding the career and the woman of my dreams or even breathing, eating, and (as Kevin put it) wiggling my toes. Despite the fact that I do not like the taste of alcohol and still believe that I will never receive a DUI charge, Kevin's appearance was just a stern reminder to me that making poor decisions with any risky situation in life will not only scar me, but everyone I know and love.
Kevin began his presentation by asking the question of who amongst the students in attendance could drive, a question which had me raising my hand with pride and eagerness. Kevin then spoke with a very upbeat tone in his voice, a tone that had me listening very attentively, talking about his very exciting and adventurous high school years. While there were elements of his life I desired to have in my own, including his athletic ability and his social skills, there were other aspects of it that I felt fortunate not to be carrying with me, such as his struggle to pass every course in school and his nature to take unnecessary risks. I wasn't sure why he was so quick to reveal the wild, ruthless side of his life (or why he was smiling so much while doing it), but as the presentation was inching to its peak, it was becoming more and more obvious why he did so.
After working up our emotions a few times, a guilt-ridden Kevin finally revealed the gory and heartbreaking details of his alcohol-induced accident and the aftermath that followed. He even went so far as to show us the scars of the accident and the hospital treatment that saved his life. I have had only a few horrifying nightmares in my life, but when compared to Kevin's factual experience, my nightmares resembled heaven. However, Kevin's worst scars weren't the ones he carried on his wheelchair-bound frame; his worst ones were those he carried in his mind. The loss of his ability to walk (let alone participate in another sport), his innocence in the eyes of the law, and his childhood friend left me in a state of sympathy and reflection.
When I walked out the gym that day, I thought of his description of the situation with his little sister (who were 12 years apart in age) and how miserable they both were thanks to his paralysis. I thought of my little sister, whom I share a 10-year difference in age with, as well as the activities we could never do if I too ended up a victim of making bad choices. I also began to think of other things I could never do if I made the choice to drive drunk, including playing rugby, finding the career and the woman of my dreams or even breathing, eating, and (as Kevin put it) wiggling my toes. Despite the fact that I do not like the taste of alcohol and still believe that I will never receive a DUI charge, Kevin's appearance was just a stern reminder to me that making poor decisions with any risky situation in life will not only scar me, but everyone I know and love.
April 25, 2008
Trading Up 2008 [Y. Livingstone and C. Prideaux]
The afternoon was no less exciting. Students got to explore and experience all manner of trades and apprenticeships first hand at the Trading Up fair at the Cloverdale Fairgrounds. They were given an assignment to research areas of interest and find out about District partnerships with Kwantlen and VCC that enable them to complete level 1 trades & apprenticeship training while completing high school graduation requirements.
They spoke to Grade 11 & 12 students from North Delta and South Delta participating in the many ACE-IT programs offered by the Delta School District (such as Auto Service, Welding, Masonry, Electrician Training, Cooking, and Carpentry). Trading Up 2008 offered students the occasion to speak to industry representatives about employment opportunities, to plant a seedling in horticulture, to get their hair done by other students, to sample chicken teriyaki, to do some spot welding and participate in a "Spot the Hazard" game at the BC WorkSafe station. Upon their return to school, students had a chance to de-brief, ask questions and talk about the information learned. Students were given brochures on post-secondary partnership options, the entrance requirements i.e. Math, Science, English and were encouraged to talk about these options with their family. Feedback from students was extremely positive and so all in all it was a good day for industry and the trades.
They spoke to Grade 11 & 12 students from North Delta and South Delta participating in the many ACE-IT programs offered by the Delta School District (such as Auto Service, Welding, Masonry, Electrician Training, Cooking, and Carpentry). Trading Up 2008 offered students the occasion to speak to industry representatives about employment opportunities, to plant a seedling in horticulture, to get their hair done by other students, to sample chicken teriyaki, to do some spot welding and participate in a "Spot the Hazard" game at the BC WorkSafe station. Upon their return to school, students had a chance to de-brief, ask questions and talk about the information learned. Students were given brochures on post-secondary partnership options, the entrance requirements i.e. Math, Science, English and were encouraged to talk about these options with their family. Feedback from students was extremely positive and so all in all it was a good day for industry and the trades.
All Hands on Deck [Y. Livingstone and C. Prideaux]
On one of the first sunny warm days in early April, Delview students had the opportunity to attend a day of events organized around industry and the trades. The morning started with a guided tour of the works yard for BC Ferries - the basin near the Massey Tunnel where all the maintenance is done on the BC Ferries fleet.
Students donned hard hats and safety glasses and descended into the belly of "The Queen of Oak Bay" to find out about the machinery and engines that power this ferry. Groups toured the shops where many of the trades people who maintain the fleet (carpenters, painters, machine fabricators, welders etc.) demonstrated the work they do.
From the top deck of "The Queen" students watched the testing and deployment of the emergency chutes and pontoon life boats (some students wanted to try out the chute which resembles a giant trampoline but this was discouraged). They also visited the brains of the ship - the bridge deck and control room. Our management guides gave talks to our students about the opportunities, options and career paths in the trades emphasizing the importance of math, science and other subjects. BC Ferries staff were not only impressed by the questions and curiosity shown by our students, but complimented our group on their respectful and mature behaviour while on a worksite that requires safety awareness.
Students donned hard hats and safety glasses and descended into the belly of "The Queen of Oak Bay" to find out about the machinery and engines that power this ferry. Groups toured the shops where many of the trades people who maintain the fleet (carpenters, painters, machine fabricators, welders etc.) demonstrated the work they do.
From the top deck of "The Queen" students watched the testing and deployment of the emergency chutes and pontoon life boats (some students wanted to try out the chute which resembles a giant trampoline but this was discouraged). They also visited the brains of the ship - the bridge deck and control room. Our management guides gave talks to our students about the opportunities, options and career paths in the trades emphasizing the importance of math, science and other subjects. BC Ferries staff were not only impressed by the questions and curiosity shown by our students, but complimented our group on their respectful and mature behaviour while on a worksite that requires safety awareness.
March 12, 2008
March 5, 2008
Devante and his Rubik's Cube [N. Clark]
If you happen to be wandering around Delview Secondary School at lunchtime, you can often see Devante solving a Rubik's Cube puzzle. Usually you will see him with an audience, as well.
Devante doesn't like to show off, but ever since he brought his Rubik's Cube to school one day, people have been clustering around him if they so much as catch a glimpse of the puzzle.
Not only does he appear to have several fans, but other people have picked up the skill as well. In fact, his choice activity has become somewhat of a trend among other students. He is no longer the only one lining up blocks of the same colour at lunchtime instead of eating, although he was the first.
Should you wish to also learn how to solve a Rubik's Cube and become one of a growing number, asking Devante is always an option. He has been teaching others how to complete the puzzle and doesn't mind sharing his secret.
The secret wasn't his in the first place, however. He readily admits that his skill was not self-taught. Devante learned how to solve a Rubik's Cube from a video he found on YouTube, which is easily accessible to anyone with a computer.
Devante didn't learn everything from the internet, though. Some of it came naturally to him. For those attempting the puzzle, Devante would advise you to "do every step without stopping."
Perseverance is also key. Although Devante began playing with his Rubik's Cube at the young age of eight, he didn't manage to solve it until he was 14. Now he can solve any Rubik's Cube you present to him in any state of disorder. Usually he manages to complete the puzzles in under five minutes.
Devante's record time for solving the puzzle is 45 seconds, but that isn't good enough for him. "I'm kind of competitive," says Devante, "so I try to get better." He practises in his spare time, so it is likely that he will beat his record soon.
It isn't very entertaining to only compete against yourself, however. If you think you can do better than Devante, he would like to hear about it. He would also like to prove you wrong.
February 20, 2008
February 12, 2008
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