Blood Brothers 27th - 30th Nov E E R F The Quest for the OSSD starts HERE See why the Flames are burning so bright this year twitter.com/STAFlames facebook.com/StThomasAquinasLondonOntario facebook.com/StThomasAquinasLondonOntarioAlumni ldcsb.on.ca/schools/STA youtube.com/user/STAFlamesLondonON St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Secondary School St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Secondary School was built in 1994. The school building constitutes 152,314.31 sq. ft., and the site encompasses 8.180 hectares. The school is well known throughout South Western Ontario as a school with a proud tradition of strong academic focus, tremendous athletic successes, and magnificent artistic performances and programs, all embedded within a community that celebrates its Catholic faith first and foremost. The school has a double gym, fitness room, televisions wired into every classroom, and an indoor track. A school is always more than the sum of it’s parts and St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Secondary School is no exception. While the building is made strong by bricks and motor, the real strength of the school is with the community within. To provide the best possible environment for the student body, the staff of STA all play an important part, no matter their role. Vice Princi pal John Marinelli Princi pal Linda Thomas Vice Princi pal Jim Sefeldas Aiken, Karen Alexander, James Arabi, Adam Bateman, Mark Bax Pettinato, Lisa Boski, Krystyna Britton, Linda Brown, Liz Buscher, Jessica Cabral, Dave Caughell, Giuliana Chaney, Michael Chen, Mary Elizabeth Cillis, Janet Cindy Gulikers Clarke, Ann Clifford, Christopher Colafranceschi, Deborah Comiskey, David James Coumans, Louise Ann Crawford, Rosemary Curcio, Vincenzo David-Lapp, Angela Davies, Valerie De Serrano, David Derbyshire, Steven DeSando, Heather J. DeSousa Gomes, Ana DiCiocco, Stacey Duffy, Mark Dundas, Jack Dundas, Mary Dundas, Stephanie Elaine Goving England, Natasha Feron, Monique Foster, James Gauthier, Bernie Gillen, Gene Gleason, Paul Goddard, Adrianne Gorski, Yvonne Gosse, Danielle Gratton, Sue Grech, Antoinette Harris, Lynn Head, Denise House, Elizabeth Inga Langois Kathy Nichol Keane, Daniel Kerr, Maureen Knoch, Christopher Koczwara, Robert Kowalski, Dennis Kulik Jackson, Michelle Helena Lamoureux, Terri Leeds, Nathan Legge, Peter Leidl, Mary Pat Luzba, Danita Mallender, Janet Marcaccio, Mary Beth Mary Verdel Mazzilli, Annamaria McAdam, Laura McCallum, Joshua McGuire, Mari-Lee Michail, Myriam Morawski, Colleen Morgan, Melinda O’Donnell, Paul O’Leary-Reesor, Lisa Owen Cox, Tammy Palmer, Chad William Parr, Kevin Prendergast, Stephen Prince, Georgia Read, Janet Reder, Barbara Regier, Christopher Reis, Sara Sarnacki, Janina Sentjens, William Slaght, Gary Smith, Connie Talbot, Cori Thomas, Catrina E. Thomas, Linda Thompson, Fr. William Thompson, Lindsey Trysko, Camilo Valerio, Joseph Van Dasler, Janice Vecchio-Sills, Pina Vermue, John Walsh, John From our Principal From the Editor We have come a long way already this year and it is now time to reflect on some of the great achievements that we have celebrated so far at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Secondary School. A lot of hard work and dedication has gone into this success, notwithstanding the inspiration from all our teachers and staff. We need to appreciate all these efforts and thank them for all that we have here. We continue to maintain the highest standards of excellence in all areas of school life, academics, arts, athletics and all extracurricular activities. A brand new idea for a brand new reality Together we have come a long way in building this school community. We should all be proud of where we stand, and help all those in need, by showing them the way forward. As we look at the rest of the year, we have several events to look forward to. We are planning our School play – “Blood Brothers” where we will see the amazing talent, of both the student actors as well as the staff, who have put this production together. We encourage you to be part of this. There are a lot more planned. We would like to share with you in the coming months all the details. So, stay tuned. A special thanks to Nathan Leeds who has put this newsletter together. Please enjoy reading this edition. The educational landscape is changing before our eyes as enrollment drops and the working environment no longer looks the same as it did 10 years ago. To keep up with such a dramatic sea change, St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Secondary School presents the new face of the school newsletter. No longer acceptable are the one or two page newsletters filled with generic clip-art and a few lines about departments, subjects and activities. This new reality calls for a dramatic step up in both content and presentation, something that raises the bar on what should be expected from an educational institute, not just from a secondary school. Creating this new look takes the contributions, skills, time and effort of so many people, both students and staff, who all believe that St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Secondary School is worth it all. New skills had to be learned, talents discovered and often confused looks exchanged. All the very best! We love being here and simply wish to share that with you. Perhaps it will encourage students to enroll here, perhaps not. Either way, we hope you are entertained. Sincerely, Linda S. Thomas Sincerely, The Editor Co-Operative Education Testimonials Name: Brendan Mckenzie Age: 20 When did you attend STA? Graduated September 2010, attended STA in Grades 9-12 Where was your Coop placement? Rho-Can Machine & Tool Where are you working now? Rho-Can Machine & Tool Were you signed as an OYAP apprentice during your Coop? Yes What is your current level apprenticeship? Two What are the working hours for your job? Monday-Friday 7-4, overtime optional on weekends What is the pay range for this type of job? Starting at $10-$12, journeyman pay is between $28-$34 an hour Comment on the trade you have been involved with and how it has affected your life. I am very happy with the trade I’ve chosen, I have worked my way up fast, raises are based purely on performance, even though I have only been to level one schooling. The work is steady and always the same working hours. It is easy to get time off, benefits and holiday pay are included. “Starting at $10-$12, What advice would you give to students thinking about getting into a trade. Try something you want to get into as a career, not just as a quick easy job. I did a motorcycle mechanic co-op in grade 12, and decided it wasn’t for me. I came back for a victory lap and just did co-op at Rho-Can. I signed up as millwright, then decided to switch to tool and die. It is easier to try different jobs when they don’t have to pay you and gives you more freedom. I also would not recommend college for pre-apprenticeship programs, If you can get hired right away, then go for it. The programs are a waste of time and money. Once you do get hired you are no further ahead than someone straight out of high school. journeyman pay is between $28-$34 an hour” REGISTRATION INFORMATION STA Registration and Course Information Registration for the next year will be underway in the new year. Please refer to the section below that applies to your current situation: Current STA Students & Grade 8's from STA feeder schools* Beginning in February, STA students and feeder school grade 8's will be selecting courses for the next school year. Courses are selected using Course Planner, which is an online course selection process for LDCSB students. *STA feeder schools include Jean Vanier, Notre Dame, St. George, St. Paul, and St. Theresa Students New to LDCSB For non-LDCSB students wishing to register at STA for the next school year, registration packages will be available at our Grade 8 Family Night on January 14, 2014. After this date you must contact the Guidance Centre at ext. 24040 and arrange to pick up a registration package. This must be done prior to February 14, 2014. Registration is dependent upon the submission of a complete registration package, with all required documentation, and potentially an interview with the Vice-Principal. For all course information, visit the STA Course Calendar at www.ldcsb.on.ca/schools/sta/ then click on Registration & Course Selection. Health and Wellness Specialist High Skills MajoR Are you interested in becoming a kinesiologist, child care worker, audiologist, fitness instructor, doctor, nurse, physiotherapist, youth care worker or medical technician? Well then…the following program is designed just for you! The credit requirements of this Specialist High Skills Major Program are unique and geared to the health and wellness sector. This program will provide knowledge, skill, certification and employment specific experiences within the field of interest. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to investigate career opportunities while gaining special certifications such as CPR and First Aid. Bring your questions to Mrs. Leidl or Ms Read in the Health and Physical Education Department. The Guidance Department is also ready to take your questions. Come see us soon – course selections are just around the corner!!! The SHSM in Health and Wellness requires students to complete seven sector-recognized certifications and/or training programs. These are listed below. Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Level C ambulation, lifting, and transfers coach/personal trainer ethical considerations lab practices non-violent crisis intervention sign language waste management Four compulsory generic (i.e., not infection control sitespecific) instruction about the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) Three electives from the list below automated external babysitting defibrillation (AED) communication skills conflict resolution feeding assistance fitness leadership – group marine and wilderness activities first aid personality inventory safe body mechanics specialized care (e.g., diabetes, dementia) sterile techniques Standard First Aid behaviour management customer service group dynamics medical terminology safe food handling – basic suicide prevention the Main Course menu Alternative (non-credit) Courses What makes up the course code? Alternative (non-credit) courses are designed for students who are working outside the Ontario Curriculum. Students develop literacy, numeracy, communication and social skills. Life skills are a major focus of our School to Community Pathway Program. The first letter of the code will always identify which curriculum area the course is for; A for Arts, B for Business Studies... Open Courses Open courses are suitable for all learners in a particular grade. Students will learn concepts and skills designed to enrich their education and lives. Applied Courses Applied Courses are suitable for students who benefit from practical experiences and real life examples in order to understand concepts before moving on to the next topic. Applied courses provide examples to help students make connections Academic Courses Academic courses are suitable for students who can easily connect concepts and ideas. These courses have a quick pace; they move from one concept or topic to the next one rather quickly. They offer students frequent opportunities to extend their knowledge and deepen their understanding. Locally Developed Courses Locally Developed courses are suitable for students who start Grade 9 with knowledge and skills gaps. These courses are ideal for students who benefit from concrete experiences. This type of coures prepares students for success in everyday life. The first three letters indicate the course subject. ENG is English, HRE is Religion, ADA is drama. The fourth letter identifies the Grade level of the course with Grade 9 being 1 all the way to Grade 12 being 4. The fifth letter denotes the type of course, if it is an Academic course or an Open course. The sixth letter is a infrequently used option to distinguish if a course is French Immersion or Co-Op or the course is Males or Females only. The chart opposite lists all the major course code ingredients. How to decode an Alternative (non-credit) Course An Alternative (non-credit) course is made up for five letters, with an optional sixth if needed. The first letter is always a K to indicate an Alternative course. The second two letters identify the subject while the third letter refers to the year. A = Year 1, B = Year 2, C = Year 3, D = Year 4, E = Year 5, F = Year 6 and G = Year 7. The fifth letter is always an N. Bon appetit The Quest for the Ontario Secondary School Diploma The journey towards the ultimate reward of the Ontario Secondary School Diploma will take four or more years to complete. Along the way you will encounter clubs, teams and events that may help you on your quest as well as the unexpected pitfalls that often appear without warning. You do not journey alone with up to 32 teachers, plus the support of guidance counselors and administrative personnel you will be able to overcome any obstacles in your path. As you proceed on your quest you will be taught the skills needed to complete your task. The language capabilities to understand those you meet along the way as well as a different language. You must also be tested on these talents in your second year of the quest, to make sure you are up to the challenges that await you. As you venture forth you will find other travelers, explorers and friends all engaged in the same quest. A challenging task such as yours will always be easier when not taken alone. The experience gained from your journey will adventures once your quest is complete. No final destination once you leave the school, it the years spent on your quest prepares you for help guide you to further matter what your planned is important to realise that whatever you face later on. Your quest will be as difficult or as easy as you are willing to make it. Remembering to ask for help will make sure that any challenges you are facing will be overcome. There are very few situations that your teachers, support staff and administration have not faced before you. All are experienced and willing to help you as you travel along your quest and whose only goal is to make sure that you have all the tools needed for your adult life. S.T.A. Student Council 2013/2014 Lucianne Abouatallah - Prime Minister My name is Lucianne Abouatallah and I am a grade 12 student here at St. Thomas Aquinas. I have been at STA all four years of high school and I am Prime Minister of student council for the 2013/2014 school year. I love everything about STA. The teachers are intelligent and accommodating. There are many extracurricular activities and we have an outstanding student body. I have been a member of the STA concert band since grade 9. Last year I was in the Peer Leadership class and got to take part in many events at STA. It was an amazing experience, and I know every opportunity STA provides is remarkable. This year as Prime Minister, my job includes attending senate and school council meetings, as well as representing the STA student body at all times. I am here to help all the other members of student council. Whenever they need a helping hand, I have one to give. We have already taken part in the United Way game and grade 9 appreciation day activities. We also have Christmas and Halloween activities coming up soon. We plan to have an evening social similar to those done in previous years. No matter what event we are working on, I’m here to support my peers and get the job done. I am very honoured to be part of student council this year. I know we are going to do lots of great things Mark Dickey - Deputy Prime Minister Ahoy there! My name is Mark Dickey and this year I am Deputy Prime Minister. Ever since grade nine I wanted to take a leadership role in the great community of STA, and I am really looking forward to working in student council for the rest of this year! I have been involved over the years with Leadership Class, Improv Club, Spoken Word, as well as Flames News Network and various assembly concerts over the years. Outside of school I participate in theatre and work scooping ice cream. This year as Deputy I will be working with Luci at board meetings representing STA, and in school I hope to focus on emphasizing spirit and community. Thank you for the opportunity, and I promise to work my hardest with council to provide the most fun atmosphere at STA possible! Alex Petersen- Minister of Finance As the Finance Minister my role is to keep track of all the Student Council’s finances throughout the year. I count all the money collected from school events and deposit it to the designated accounts. Additionally, I monitor our council’s budget and make sure bills are paid on time. Since grade 9 I have been an active member of our STA community. Last year I was given the opportunity to be a part of the Leadership class, where I ran events, helped the grade 9’s and improved upon my leadership skills. I love to volunteer around our school and always attend and participate in school socials, such as Redfeather, Strut and Cabaret. Outside of school I have a part time job at the Real Canadian Superstore, working as a cashier. I also do competitive Irish dance and have been doing so for 12 years. Every chance I get I am always at the studio practicing or teaching younger students. Once I graduate from grade 12 I hope to go onto university to study business and branch out into the financial or accounting side. Karlee Searle - Minister of Arts and Culture I have attended STA since grade nine, and I am super excited to be a part of student council for my grade twelve year. Throughout the past three years I have been involved in the STA community through participation in the visual arts program, STA’s annual art shows, Powderpuff football, the cross country team and other various events; however it was through the grade eleven leadership course that I was inspired to join student council. Art has always been a big part of my life and I use it as a method of self-expression, so I feel as if being Minister of Arts and Culture is a good fit for me. In this position I have the privilege of participating in and witnessing the extraordinary growth and talent of the STA student body. My responsibilities as Minister of Arts and Culture include organizing this upcoming sports assembly and multicultural day. Recently student council organized the United Way Football Game and Grade Nine Appreciation Day; both of which were enjoyable and successful! Some of our focuses this year include increasing school spirit and developing the sense of community at STA. We have a variety of events coming up this school year, including Halloween and Christmas festivities, STA’s annual fashion show Strut, multicultural day, sports assemblies and so much more! I am so excited for this upcoming year, and to work with such an inspiring group of student council members. I can’t wait to give back to the school that has given so much to me. Matt Lee - Minister of Communications During my past years at Saint Thomas Aquinas, I have been given the opportunity to join many clubs and participate in multiple events. Due to my participation in clubs and events, I have made new lasting friendships, and have found new passions and interests. These clubs and events have helped me decide who I want to become in the future, and what I want to do with my life. After school, most of my time is occupied with school work, being with friends, and spending time working on this year’s school production. As a Minister of Communications, I am responsible for various jobs that will keep our council in order and well organized. Along with Bridget, the Ministers of Communications must keep records and agendas of upcoming events, as well as promote activities. We must also help mediate events where council works together with fellow students, teachers, and guests. We must also verify and change our school sign, which will allow the student body to know what is occurring at our school weekly. Along with the other council members, we will work together to make this school year the best it can be. Have a Great Year Flames! Tyler Austin - Minister of Sports. STA is a marvelous and exciting place, and we have many sport teams and activities that have been run since the beginning of the school. I have been attending STA since my freshman (Grade 9) year, and have been actively involved since day 1. I have been on the Jr. Football team, Cross Country team, Track & Field team, and am always a spirited participant in other school events, such as Redfeather. I play Junior Lacrosse outside of school and have been doing so for 6 years. I love to attend social events, such as Strut, Monte Carlo night, and Cabaret. This year I am very excited to run and get the student body enthusiastic for all the fantastic things we have planned. I am the Minister of Sports and recreation at STA, where I have many duties that I am entitled to fulfil as a member of Student Council. I work side by side with the other sports minister to promote physical education, fitness and health by organizing athletic and recreational activities. We also plan and coordinate athletic assemblies, and work with the Spirit and Arts Ministers to help organize pep rallies. Other than these specific activities, I help out with the other ministers activities and events within the school!! Tanner Shantz - Minister of Multimedia My position on Student Council is Minister of Multimedia. This position is very fitting for me considering, prior to this year, I have taken tech theatre and often help run sound operations for the school shows and various assembly’s. I really enjoy working on the technical side of things. I am super excited about this years student council and all we have planned to make this a great year for everyone from the new grade nines to us grade twelve students in our final year. This year, we as a student council plan to appeal to the interests of all students through our events, making sure there is something for everyone. This way we can get everyone involved and having the most possible fun this year. Clara Gomes - Minister of Environment As Minister of Environment I am responsible for helping keep STA green. I hope to work with Mrs. Buscher this year with her recycling club and keep the school nice and clean. I’m really looking forward to planning the earth day assembly and opening up the student’s minds to how bad we treat our planet. I have gone to STA since grade 9 and have had many great experiences here. Next year I plan on going to Fanshawe into the Music Industry Arts program and hopefully one day become a successful music engineer. Samantha Gene - Minister of Faith I have been an STA student for only two years, and I have already gained so many wonderful memories here at our school. Since my first day attending STA, it has been clear that our community is one that is welcoming, friendly, and inclusive. In fact, it is because of this environment that I have been able to take part in a wide variety of school activities such as Cabaret, Assemblies, and Spoken Word Club, just to name a few. Now as a member of STA's Student Council, I have a much deeper respect and love for my school community, and I encourage all students to be involved as much as possible, because I know it helped me to gain loads of confidence and many lasting memories. As Faith Minister, I have a variety of tasks, some of which include creating our daily morning prayer, being an active member of Chaplaincy team, and ensuring that all school activities are welcoming and reflect Catholic teachings. My overall focus for this year, is reaching out to students and people in need, both in our school community and our London community. I believe that if we all unite as one student body to learn and understand the needs of others, we can collectively become strong humble leaders of society through acting upon these needs. There truly is nothing more rewarding than the act of giving, and I think every STA student has a flame big enough within their heart to take action. I look forward to the upcoming year, and I will strive to make it one of the best years of your high school career. Go Flames! Bridget Hall - Minister of Communications Before coming to STA in grade 9, I went to a French-first-language elementary school where I became fluent in French. Once I started into high school, I tried to get involved in as many things as possible. I have played on the basketball, golf, tennis and badminton teams, and I have had so much fun being a part of each one. I will also have the privilege of travelling to New York City in April as part of a school field trip. In grade 11, I could not decide whether or not to run for a position on Student Council but so far it has turned out to be the best decision I have ever made. We have the opportunity to organize and run many school events such as the United Way Football Game, an Evening Social in October, a Friday Night Lights football game and many Halloween celebrations. Rachel Neufert - Minister of Sports I have been at STA for all four years and wouldn’t want it any other way. I love being involved in the school and have been since grade nine. I have been a part of many events such as, Christmas Assembly, Final Assembly, Cabaret, Basketball Team and the Badminton Team, just to name a few. I believe student council will help me fulfill and make the most of my last year here at STA. My role as Minister of Sports is to work with the athletics departments to promote fitness and health by organizing many athletic activities. I also work in cooperation with the Spirit ministers and Arts and Culture minister to help advertise and excite the student body for pep rallies and so on. I cannot wait for the exciting things we have planned, and to help ignite the inner “flame” in everyone this year! Claire Hunter – Minister of Spirit Being a Spirit Minister I am responsible for maintaining the spirit within STA and encouraging all students to participate in school events. I will be working closely with other members of student council to make sure that all tasks are completed with ample amounts of school spirit to encourage students to get involved. I have attended and participated in multiple school events since grade nine such as Strut, Redfeather, School Masses and days like the Terry Fox Walk. Last year I was a participant in the Leadership class. This class helped me to improve my leadership skills and prepared me for future event planning, which definitely has come in handy with student council. Aside from school I work as a lifeguard at a pool in Oakridge and I am planning to join the school swim team and rowing team. After grade twelve I plan to take a year off and work as an au pair in Ireland for several months then travel Europe for the rest of the year. After that I plan to go to university for something that involves working with children. I am very enthusiastic for this 2013-2014 year because myself and the rest of Student Council have a lot of exciting things planned! Kate Collins - Minister of Spirit I started STA in grade nine and have remained an involved member of the student body ever since. As spirit minister I have been able to continue this involvement by planning events, activities, and promoting positive flame spirit throughout the school. Outside of school I take ballet classes and am actively involved in Original Kids Theatre Company. I spend my summers as a counsellor at the theatre company’s summer camp. I am enthusiastic, energetic, and super excited for this year and I hope you are too STA. Every August the incoming Grade 9 students have an orientation day where they are guided around the school by the students and shown which rooms they will be in and which locker they will be occupying. As staff mingle with the students, answering questions, hopefully the daunting journey into secondary education will be just a little less scary. Grade 9 APPRECIATION Every school year, St. Thomas Aquinas holds several blood clinics and encourages eligible students to not only contribute but to learn about the process of giving blood. It is estimated by the Canadian Blood Services that 52 percent of Canadians say that someone in their family have required blood, or a blood product. According to a 2009 study by McMaster University, while there are an estimated 12.5 million potential donors, less than 4% actually donate. Young adults are more likely to donate and encouraging donation involvement while at school will both allow students to experience blood donation and hopefully make life long donors out of them. The number of eligible students who contribute and the enthusiasm they exhibit makes us all proud. S.T.A Saving Lives Of the eight blood groups, A+ and O+ are the most common, making up 75 percent of the population whereas AB- makes up only .5 percent. O- is considered the universal blood type meaning that it can be given to a patient with any blood type. Conversely, someone with O- can only receive blood from someone with the same blood group. You can visit the Canadian Blood Services website (www. blood.ca) for more information as well as details of up coming clinics in your area. You may well see students from St. Thomas Aquinas also donating. Every three years the Upper Thames Conservation Authority hosts a water festival to educate primary students about the necessity for the preservation and conservation of our most important resource. STA was proud to send several student volunteers to the Fanshawe Conservation Area in May. Our students were paired into teams and given stations with activities that related to a particular aspect of water safety, water conservation or clean water management. Public, private, and home-schooled students from in and around the London area participated in these activities. The STA students saw over a thousand kids throughout the day. It was a wonderful opportunity for them to learn leadership skills, develop their presentation skills and work with young people. They also learned many things about the importance of protecting our resources and being the good stewards that God calls us to be. What a wonderful opportunity to see our students shine! Most 17yr olds are content playing video games and watching movies. Adam Madrzyk is not one of them. The Grade 12 student from St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Secondary School already has a number of videos under his belt ranging from dance to music to a promo of a boxer to an either short movie called Awaken which has just been accepted into the Hamilton Film Festival which he both directed and filmed. A talented young film maker, Adam seems able to switch topics with ease and makes each video unique. When did you begin making movies and when did you decide to become serious about it? I first started out in 2007 when my godfather gave me one of his old video cameras and as soon as I got my hands on it I began making my own little home movies. Ever since then my passion for film making had instantly taken off, and since then I have not put my camera down for more then a few days. I’ve known that I wanted to pursue film as a career since grade 7, since I loved doing it and I knew if this dream became successful, I’d never work a day in my life. You clearly don’t use a cell phone camera and Microsoft movie maker, so what kind of hardware/software do you use to achieve your final product? I have been shooting on a Canon 60d up until a few weeks ago, when I upgraded to a Blackmagic cinema camera. In post production, I edit all my work in Final Cut Pro X and I do all my colour grading in Davinci Resolve. With a varied catalogue already, what draws you to different topics such as a promo for a boxer and a dance video? My work varies in styles only because I’m trying to show universities and film scouts that I’m versatile as a film maker and that I can touch base on many different topics/genres and not only in a certain personal style. New clients draw me to different topics aswell, as they drive me to always try to create something new, interesting and creative. I don’t like looking back, so if someone can inspire me or lead me into a new path I will always take the opportunity. When you graduate do you plan to continue your movie making and what is your ultimate goal? My plan is on studying film either at Ryerson, NYU or at UCLA and getting a Masters of Fine Arts at the New York Film Academy for my post diploma. My ultimate goal would have to be, to win an Oscar for best Director or to get best picture at the Cannes Film Festival. Follow Adam at Vimeo.com/adammadrzyk Alex Fleming, otherwise known as Black Atlass, is a very talented musician who is creating his very own style of RnB by meshing synth basslines under piano and his smooth lyrics. The 19 year old alum of St. Thomas Aquinas has been artist of the week on Vogue. com, flown to Paris and dressed by Christian Dior and even had a song licensed to Louis Vuitton. The difference between Alex and Justin Beiber, who is also 19, is obvious. Alex has a much more mature approach to everything, from look to music, which makes both his music and himself a lot more attractive to listeners of all ages, not just pre-teen girls. Kayne West is his main inspiration as a musician. Thanks to his parents record collection, he was exposed to everything from 50s blues to Michael Jackson. Alex picked the name Black Atlass when he saw an atlas in front of him on a train journey from Montreal to London and then added the word Black. Instead of taking the popular route of releasing YouTube videos until getting noticed, Alex has spent his time well, crafting a very unique sound. He recently was featured in Macleans magazine where he was referred to as the “antiJustin Bieber”. Needless to say, Alex is yet another STA alum who is destined for great things. blackatlass.com/ soundcloud.com/blackatlass itunes.apple.com/ca/album/paris-single/id660283751 youtube.com/user/BLACKATLASS vogue.com/culture/article/artist-of-the-week-black-atlass/#1 ssense.com/editorial/black-atlass#/0 macleans.ca/2013/08/10/hes-the-anti-justin-bieber/ Emily Hadubiak Cathy Hadubiak Taekwon-Do is a martial art that originated in Korea. Known as much for it’s philosophy and mental discipline as it’s physicality, Taekwon-Do is equally popular with males and females. As part of the Olympics, Taekwon-Do is distinctive with its emphasis on high kicks and fast hands. Taekwon-Do also features the breaking of boards, an exercise that helps combine the physical with the ability to focus mentally on the task. While Taekwon-Do includes sparring, it also improves participants health through the work outs and even methods of relaxing and meditation. Emily Hadubiak was the only Canadian to attend the recent International Taekwon-Do Federation Australasia Open Championship but came away with two gold medals. Emily is already a first dan (black belt) and is sure to continue her progression through the ranks of the sport. Taekwon-Do Champion How old were you when you began Taekwon-Do and why did you start? I started Taekwon-Do when I was five years old. Both my brother and sister did Taekwon-Do and at that age I would do anything to be just like them. You are a first dan, or black belt. How many more dan are there and what do you need to do to progress? In total there are nine black belts. To get my second, I need to complete a day long testing in front of a panel of senior black belts, which I will be doing in January. With the Olympic games in 2016, will we have the opportunity to cheer you on in Brazil? I will not be competing in Brazil, since the Taekwon-Do in the Olympics is a different style than my own. Your instructor at Oakridge Taekwon-Do is your mother. Does this make it harder to impress when training? Yes, I think my mom expects more from me in my training compared to other people. What makes Taekwon-Do different from other martial arts? Taekwon-Do is different because it focuses on self-defence and self improvement rather than attacks. http://www.mstartkd.com/oakridge/ Theresa Handrigan Grade 12 student Theresa Handrigan just returned from a very successful trip to Italy. Theresa represented on Team Canada at the WKC (World Kickboxing and Karate Council) World Championships and while there participated in sparring, Japanese forms, Korean forms, and creative weapons. She returned with the silver medal in Japanese forms, the bronze medal in Korean forms, and the bronze medal in creative weapons. Theresa's next goal is to attain her third degree black belt. Karate Champion How old were you when you began Karate and why did you start? I was ten years old, I was tired of dance and my brother had already been doing it for two years. What are the differences between Japanese and Korean forms? Also, what are creative weapons? Japanese is Karate and Korean is Taekwon Do. Creative weapons is a division where I use a bo staff and I am not allowed to release my weapon but I can use modern techniques. How much training do you do in an average week and what does it consist of? Six to seven days a week for a minimum of one hour. It consists of conditioning, strength training and practising the techniques for Karate. You are already a second dan black belt. What do you need to do to gain the third? Finish learning all my forms and self defenses then do the 3rd degree black belt test. The Canadian open tournament is being held in Gatineau, Quebec on March 21st and 22nd, 2014. Will you be competing? Probably, but I don’t know for sure. When the going gets tough the tough get muddy! Founded in 2010, Tough Mudder is a 10 to 12 mile long military style obstacle course that is designed by the British Special Forces. Obstacles combine ice cold water, fire, heights and even electric cables that dangle, are unavoidable and deliver up to 10,000 volts to anyone who happens to touch them. Participants are encouraged to enter as a team due to the challenging obstacles that often require help to overcome. Tough Mudder partners with the Wounded Warrior Project. This year, Mrs Thompson, Mrs Kulik-Jackson, Mrs Morgan, Mrs M Dundas, Mrs Head and Mrs Mascherin Walton were part of a team that competed and completed the Toronto event. Our teachers exhibited all the dedication and teamwork that they bring to STA everyday in one of the most grueling fitness events available. http://www.toughmudder.com/ St. Thomas Aquinas Sporting Graduates St. Thomas Aquinas is not only a great academic school but it also has a stellar reputation for sports. Here are some of STA’s recent graduates who have found new opportunities to continue their sporting careers. For a continually updated list, please visit our alumni Facebook page facebook.com/StThomasAquinasLondonOntarioAlumni and Like us to be kept up to date on our successful alum, not just sporting but all grads. Results Away Home 19th Sep St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 42 - 17 Regina Mundi C.H.S. 23rd Sep St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 42 - 22 Mother Teresa C.H.S. 25th Sep Catholic Central H.S. 40 - 22 St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 1st Oct John Paul II C.H.S. 16 - 35 St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 3rd Oct St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 37 - 10 St. Mary’s C.H.S. 8th Oct St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 46 - 34 St. Joseph’s C.H.S. 10th Oct Holy Cross C.H.S. 20 - 51 St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 21st Oct St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 35 - 27 St. Andre Bessette 28th Oct Mother Teresa C.H.S. 30 - 39 St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 30th Oct St. Joseph’s C.H.S. 28 - 52 St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 31st Oct London District Christian S.S. 10 - 39 St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. Standings GP W L PTS PF PA Catholic Central H.S. (AAA) 11 11 0 22 410 243 St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. (AAA) 11 10 1 20 440 254 St. Andre Bessette (AA) 11 7 4 14 323 302 St. Joseph's C.H.S. (AA) 11 6 5 12 403 342 Mother Teresa C.H.S. (AAAA) 11 6 5 12 360 317 Regina Mundi C.H.S. (AAA) 11 5 6 10 317 351 John Paul II C.H.S. (AAA) 12 5 7 10 339 372 Holy Cross C.H.S. (A) 11 4 7 8 285 423 St. Mary's C.H.S. (AA) 12 1 11 2 274 418 London District Christian S.S. (A) 9 0 9 0 130 259 Key GP = Games PlayedW = Wins (2 points) L = Losses (0 points) PF = Points For PA = Points Against Results Away Home 19th Sep St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 62 - 32 Regina Mundi C.H.S. 23rd Sep St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 50 - 44 Mother Teresa C.H.S. 25th Sep Catholic Central H.S. 30 - 50 St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 1st Oct John Paul II C.H.S. 24 - 60 St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 3rd Oct St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 48 - 16 St. Mary’s C.H.S. 10th Oct Holy Cross C.H.S. 29 - 49 St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 16th Oct St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 53 - 30 Monseigneur-Bruyere 28th Oct Mother Teresa C.H.S. 41 - 45 St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 29th Oct St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 61 - 17 Holy Cross C.H.S. 31st Oct London District Christian S.S. 23 - 44 St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 4th Nov Monseigneur-Bruyere 45 - 46 St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. Standings GP W L PTS PF PA St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. (AAA) 11 11 0 22 568 331 Mother Teresa C.H.S. (AAAA) 11 9 2 18 617 349 Monseigneur-Bruyere (A) 12 8 4 16 507 410 John Paul II C.H.S. (AAA) 11 7 4 14 393 329 Regina Mundi C.H.S. (AAA) 12 6 6 12 482 461 Catholic Central H.S. (AAA) 11 4 7 8 400 461 Holy Cross C.H.S. (A) 11 2 9 4 322 506 London District Christian S.S. (A) 12 3 9 6 342 550 St. Mary's C.H.S. (AA) 11 1 10 2 231 465 Key GP = Games PlayedW = Wins (2 points) L = Losses (0 points) PF = Points For PA = Points Against Results Away Home 19th Sep Regina Mundi C.H.S. 1 - 3 St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 23rd Sep Mother Teresa C.H.S. 1 - 3 St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 25th Sep St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 2 - 3 Catholic Central H.S. 1st Oct St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 3 - 1 John Paul II C.H.S. 3rd Oct St. Mary's C.H.S. 3 - 2 St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 8th Oct St. Joseph's C.H.S. 0 - 3 St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 10th Oct St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 3 - 0 Holy Cross C.H.S. 16th Oct Monseigneur-Bruyere 0 - 3 St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 21st Oct St. Andre Bessette 0 - 3 St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 28th Oct St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 3 - 1 Mother Teresa C.H.S. 31st Oct St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 0 - 3 London District Christian S.S. Standings MP W L PTS PF PA Catholic Central H.S. (AAA) 11 11 0 22 410 243 St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. (AAA) 11 10 1 20 440 254 St. Andre Bessette (AA) 11 7 4 14 323 302 St. Joseph's C.H.S. (AA) 11 6 5 12 403 342 Mother Teresa C.H.S. (AAAA) 11 6 5 12 360 317 Regina Mundi C.H.S. (AAA) 11 5 6 10 317 351 John Paul II C.H.S. (AAA) 12 5 7 10 339 372 Holy Cross C.H.S. (A) 11 4 7 8 285 423 St. Mary's C.H.S. (AA) 12 1 11 2 274 418 London District Christian S.S. (A) 9 0 9 0 130 259 Mother Teresa C.H.S. (AAAA) 8 0 8 0 4 24 Key MP = Matches Played W = Wins (2 points) L = Losses (0 points) PF = Points For PA = Points Against Results Away Home 19th Sep Regina Mundi C.H.S. 0 - 3 St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 23rd Sep Mother Teresa C.H.S. 1 - 3 St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 25th Sep St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 3 - 0 Catholic Central H.S. 1st Oct St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 3 - 1 John Paul II C.H.S. 3rd Oct St. Mary's C.H.S. 1 - 3 St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 8th Oct St. Joseph's C.H.S. 0 - 3 St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 10th Oct St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 2 - 3 Holy Cross C.H.S. 16th Oct Monseigneur-Bruyere 2 - 3 St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 21st Oct St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 3 - 0 E.S. Gabriel-Dumont 28th Oct St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 1 - 3 Mother Teresa C.H.S. 31st Oct St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 3 - 1 London District Christian S.S. Standings MP W L PTS PF PA Catholic Central H.S. (AAA) 11 11 0 22 410 243 St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. (AAA) 11 10 1 20 440 254 St. Andre Bessette (AA) 11 7 4 14 323 302 St. Joseph's C.H.S. (AA) 11 6 5 12 403 342 Mother Teresa C.H.S. (AAAA) 11 6 5 12 360 317 Regina Mundi C.H.S. (AAA) 11 5 6 10 317 351 John Paul II C.H.S. (AAA) 12 5 7 10 339 372 Holy Cross C.H.S. (A) 11 4 7 8 285 423 St. Mary's C.H.S. (AA) 12 1 11 2 274 418 London District Christian S.S. (A) 9 0 9 0 130 259 E.S. Gabriel-Dumont (A) 11 1 10 2 7 32 Key MP = Matches Played W = Wins (2 points) L = Losses (0 points) PF = Points For PA = Points Against Results Away Home 18th Sep St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 6 26th Sep St. Andre Bessette 28 - 5th Oct St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 7 18th Oct St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 21 - 18th Oct Catholic Central H.S. 0 25th Oct Mother Teresa C.H.S. 27 - 37 St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. Standings - 34 John Paul II C.H.S. 6 St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. - 20 Regina Mundi C.H.S. 1 St. Joseph’s C.H.S. - 10 St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. GP W L T PTS PF PA John Paul II C.H.S. (AAA) 5 4 1 0 8 182 89 St. Andre Bessette (AA) 5 4 1 0 8 126 58 Catholic Central H.S. (AAA) 5 4 1 0 8 109 51 St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. (AAA) 6 3 3 0 6 87 110 Regina Mundi C.H.S. (AAA) 5 2 3 0 4 46 100 St. Joseph's C.H.S. (AA) 5 1 4 0 2 34 66 Mother Teresa C.H.S. (AAAA) 5 0 5 0 0 43 153 Key GP = Games PlayedW = Wins (2 points) L = Losses (0 points) T = Ties (1 points) PF = Points ForPA = Points Against Results Away Home 18th Sep St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 29 - 10 John Paul II C.H.S. 24th Sep St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 43 - 27 Mother Teresa C.H.S. 4th Oct Regina Mundi C.H.S. 6 18th Oct St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. 45 - 21 St. Joseph's C.H.S. 25th Oct Catholic Central H.S. 41 - 31 St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. Standings - 57 St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. GP W L T PTS PF PA Catholic Central H.S. (AAA) 5 5 0 0 10 209 83 St. Thomas Aquinas C.S.S. (AAA) 5 4 1 0 8 205 105 St. Joseph's C.H.S. (AA) 5 3 2 0 6 136 112 Mother Teresa C.H.S. (AAAA) 5 2 3 0 4 138 124 John Paul II C.H.S. (AAA) 5 1 4 0 2 68 103 Regina Mundi C.H.S. (AAA) 5 0 5 0 0 13 242 Key GP = Games PlayedW = Wins (2 points) L = Losses (0 points) T = Ties (1 points) PF = Points ForPA = Points Against The XC team has had a successful 2013 season. Our team has had strong results at the Fanshawe Invitational, Banting Invitational, University of Windsor's 'Thrill on the Hill' and Springwater meets. Our strong midget teams, led by Jenna Cunneen and Caelan Holden prove that the XC program at STA will be a major contender in years to come. Our Junior teams, led by Michael Hollis, Bianca Fernandes, Kiersten Waugh and Gill Barker have consistently improved their race times over the course of our season. Our veteran senior teams, led by Laura Travaglini, Sarah DeSumma, Chris Marentette and Josh Stauder are also posting stellar times. OFSAA will be held in Sudbury this year and our athletes are working diligently to earn the coveted WOSSAA silver which will qualify their team for this prestigious event. Please support our XC team at WOSSAA which will be held at Springbank Park. Good luck Flames! A special thank you goes out to our Coaches who give up so much of their time to the STA Cross Country program. Thank you to Barb Komer, Meaghan Smith and James Hird for your dedication to the development of our athletes. Ashley Stoyanovich’s consistent play in WOSSA at Sunset Golf Course in Goderich qualified Ashley to compete at OFSAA which was held at Shanty Bay Golf Course in Barrie Ontario on October 16 and 17th. Ashley had to manage a very difficult course that consisted of some extreme hills for fairways and unforgiving elevated greens plus soggy areas everywhere. Ashley’s composure during her rounds and excellent golf sportsmanship made STA proud. Congratulations to Nick Schepens who won WOSSA Championship at Union in St. Thomas and qualified for OFSAA competition in Windsor Essex. On April 11th, 2013, the St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Secondary School held it's annual STRUT Fashion show and raised $1,500 to support Make-A-Wish Southwestern Ontario. It recently helped send an ill seven year old girl and her family to Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida. Every year, London Secondary schools take part in a football game that is referred to as the Red Feather game. This year, St. Thomas Aquinas played against Mother Teresa. To support both the senior football team as well as the United Way, St. Thomas Aquinas has a great tradition of holding a Spirit Day where the students dress in the school colours of red, white and black. After a rally to welcome the football team, most of the school student body will board busses to head to the game. All proceeds from the game go towards the United Way Did you know that not only does 12 + 1 = 11+ 2 but the letters in ''twelve plus one'' can be rearranged to read ''eleven plus two''? INGREDIENTS: • • • • • 2 1 1 1 2 cups of white flour envelope of Fleischman’s Quick Rise Instant Yeast tsp. of salt cup of very warm water Tbsp. olive oil or vegetable oil DIRECTIONS • Preheat oven to 400 F • In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of flour, yeast and salt. Stir the warm water and the oil into the flour mixture to make a soft dough. • Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface until smooth and elastic (about 2-4 minutes) adding more flour if needed. Form dough into a smooth ball. Let stand 15 minutes (place in a bowl and cover with a tea towel). • Roll out dough onto a baking sheet (circle or square). • Spread pizza sauce. • Add desired toppings. • Bake in oven for 25 minutes or until bottom of pizza is golden. Enjoy! Blood Brothers tells the story of the Johnstone twins, Mickey and Eddie, brothers separated at birth who reunite and become friends in their childhood, unaware of their relation to each other or of the consequences their relationship will bring about. At the start, Mrs. Johnstone learns she is pregnant with twins and confides in her employer Mrs. Lyons about her fears that she will not be able to support both children. Mrs. Lyons, a wealthy and deceitful woman unable to have children herself, persuades Mrs. Johnstone to give up one of her boys with the promise that she will raise him in the lap of luxury. But when Mrs. Lyons fires the mother in hopes of making Eddie all her own, she is unable to separate herself and Eddie from the Johnstone family or from the lies of the past, leading both families towards a tragic end. Blood Brothers also explores class differences and the gap between classes through the way both the sons and mothers choose to live their lives. Mrs. Johnstone and Mrs. Lyons are in two very different classes, yet they are unable to avoid each other because of the connection their sons share. The differences in lifestyle, values, and morals of the two families are stark yet subtly done. The most prevalent theme is within the constant reference to Marilyn Monroe and it's relevance is strong. At the start, Mrs. Johnstone tells of her carefree youth, comparing every aspect of her life to that of the blond bombshell. Although beautiful and successful, Marilyn Monroe led a complex life and in many ways brought on her own destruction. Her memory is framed by her bitter end just as the story of the Johnstone twins is framed by the image of the two brothers lying dead on the floor. Seemingly every major player in Blood Brothers is a tragic figure, meeting their own end through their own tragic means. Blood Brothers is a variation on an old theme - twin brothers parted at birth, but is also filled with raw emotion, deception. Blood Brothers becomes a moving production that is sure to leave you thinking. The show will run the week of November 27th through November 30th, 2013 with the school matinees starting November 25th through November 29th, starting at 10:00 am. The cost per seat for the matinee is $6.00. STA’s production is a moving, mature story that should not be missed The Cast Mrs. Johnstone Mickey Eddie Sammy Linda Mrs. Lyons Mr. Lyons Narrator Mr. Johnstone/Policeman 2 Policeman 3/Judge/Kid Catalogue Man/Bus Driver/ Priest Teacher (x2)/Ensemble Milkman/Gyno/Kid/Ensemble Policeman 1/Kid/Ensemble Policeman 4/Singing Neighbour/Ensemble Finance Man/Kid/Bus Conductor/Ensemble Postman/Kid/Ensemble Linda’s Mate/Ensemble Donna Marie/Ensemble Marilyn Monroe/Ensemble New Tenant/Kid/Ensemble Nurse 1/Kid/Ensemble Nurse 2/Kid/Ensemble Kid/Ensemble Kid/Ensemble Kid/Ensemble Kid/Ensemble - Caitlin McKeon Jake Schindler Matt Lee Brennan Priebe Sam Green Naomi Simpson Shayne Gracious Ben Jongepier Benette Chenery Kabeer Gaber Jared Vaughan - Robert Clarke Aiden Fitzpatrick Brayden Crawford Bennett VanBerlo - Anthony Manganaro Deanna Armenti Mary Austin Hannah Howard Cosette Pin Megan Wagar Brittany Everitt Julia Szilveszter Jordyn Brock Clare Smith Ali Battersby - Joseph Pin St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Secondary School has rich tradition of outstanding school productions. Each year a talented cast and crew work for months to produce the best performance that they can and to entertain not only members of the public at the nightly shows but also local elementary schools with matinées that are always well received.