Interrobang: Blog'd?!

where were we?

2010-06-14T10:21:00.007-04:00

Putting together your amazing summer issues actually :)

We've crammed all the summer goodness we could into the May and June/July issues. They're available all over the schools - both issues actually - and in them we've got your preview of summer blockbusters, an exclusive with Dog the Bounty Hunter (you know you love him) and for those who have graduated or are looking for that summer job, we've got a great article on must-know tips for searching for jobs in this economy and century - it'll put you ahead of the pack.

From warm weather fashions to where you should be this weekend - beach or patio? - the Interrobang has you covered!

So come in and pick up a copy or check it out ONLINE!

420 in the park.

2010-04-26T13:46:00.002-04:00

Although it's passed, how many of you out there celebrated 420 Day?

The London Free Press got some coverage of the big event down in Victoria Park.

Check it out:

unbound 2010.

2010-04-19T14:22:00.005-04:00

Last Friday, April 16 - Fanshawe's fashion design students put on their end-of-the-year graduate portfolio at Museum London.

The ritzy event - seriously, people were lookin' good and the food was fancy - was packed, and while it did start way later than planned (and the fashionable people were getting testy, as this Interrobang reporter overheard), it was worth the wait.

Coming from a person who can't sew to save her life, seeing those creations stomp down the runway was IMPRESSIVE.

The evening performance was judged by big names like famous Canadian designer David Dixon, Maggie Bill of ET Canada, and Erin O'Brien of Flare magazine.

Literally everything from swimsuits to mermaid-inspired evening gowns graced the stage and the audience was visibly psyched by the results.

Congrats to the class of 2010!

*all photos by Anthony Chang.

lg fashion week - exclusive pics of Brandon R. Dwyer's show.

2010-04-08T12:45:00.005-04:00

And we're back with some more images from LG Fashion Week! This time we'd love to show you some pictures taken at Fanshawe grad, Brandon R. Dwyer's show.

BASCH by Brandon R. Dwyer featured some tight looks - literally. But the BASCH girl is confident, and exclusive, according to the press information.
The show started with a sexy, sleek mini-movie featuring a cat-and-mouse game between two women, one changing her identity with various BASCH looks and a blond wig.
Opening the show was the "spy" of the video, followed by each model - wearing identical blond wigs.
It was very wearable. I could see some girls rocking these looks when they go out, or when they really want to make a statement on a date.
The second last dress in mint green was stunning, trimmed with fur and a welcome piece of colour where most collections went black and cream.

Great work, Brandon!

theatre lovers. check it!

2010-04-08T11:05:00.003-04:00

Set in the late 1920s and '30s, this play explores a semi-Romeo and Juliet romance between two teens. It's all about sexual awakenings, repression, class systems and the wonder and fear of first love.
Details are on the poster - we encourage you to check it out! It's the program's second graduate performance.

lg fashion week exclusives.

2010-03-31T10:26:00.006-04:00

It's FASHION WEEK! Canada's most fashionable are converging on the AllStream Convention Centre in Toronto to see what Canadian designers are turning out for fall/winter 2010.

Everyone from magazine editors, bloggers, VIPs, buyers, TV personalities and more are showing up - front row and centre - to get a peek at designers like Evan Biddell, Orange by Angela Chan, Joe Fresh Style, Pink Tartan, among many others.

So far, it's been incredible - sensory overload. Monday say Georgian designers Gaudet with some Lady-Gaga-no-pants-woodland-creature inspired duds; Jules Power with a mix of quirky, comfortable, totally wearable clothes; and celeb-fave Preloved with geek chic knitted shorts, over-the-knee socks and shearling coats.

Check out some shots - please excuse the blurriness, I brought a simple ole digital camera so I did the best I could :)

Here is a bit of Gaudet. Dramatic and bold.

No pants dance and also fur, an issue of contention for many as quite a few collections are featuring it.
And some pops of colour - turquoise - even on the menswear. There was also lots of sheer tops as well. Lots of patterns, tribal and nature.

More to come of other collections - stay tuned!

london: new provincial capital?

2010-03-18T11:54:00.002-04:00

London Free Press writer, Ian Gillespie, seems to think so.

MPP Bill Murdoch apparently suggested the idea that London be Ontario's new capital city over big city Toronto.

Here is how he stacks up the two cities:

"Booze: Back in the 1860s, Toronto became North America's largest alcohol manufacturing centre with several distilleries pumping out whiskey. But Labatt started brewing beer in London in 1847. Now I ask you: What's more popular with the average Ontarian -- beer or whiskey?
Hockey: Toronto has the Leafs and a booming business in anti-depressants, plus the Leafs play in an over-priced arena named after a company that specializes in losing your luggage. We have the Memorial Cup-winning London Knights, who play in an affordable rink named after a brewery.
Mayors: Toronto Mayor David Miller regularly posts on Twitter, including a recent item about how his son "backchecked, all the time" in his minor hockey game. London Mayor Anne Marie DeCicco-Best does not. (Enough said.)
Trash: Toronto trucks its trash far, far away. London looks after its own garbage (although we're still trying to get a handle on those darn clamshell containers).
Other stuff: Toronto can lay claim to a chaotic airport, traffic gridlock, Howie Mandel and Mike Myers. London can claim a relaxed airport, comfortable commutes, Guy Lombardo, Rachel McAdams and Slippery the Seal."

So what do you think? Should London be the next provincial capital?

Read more here.

nowhere boy is going somewhere.

2010-03-17T09:09:00.003-04:00

Our reporter, Baden Roth, was recently taking in all the musical goodness of Canadian Music Week last week - be sure to check out the next issue of the Interrobang (coming out Friday) for more insider goodness.

Roth had the opportunity to check out the biopic on Lennon's early days, Nowhere Boy. A great film for any Beatles fan - here's what he had to say about it:

The Canadian Music Festival also held a film festival showcasing feature films that incorporate musical themes. Presented was the Canadian premiere of Nowhere Boy, which is directed by Sam Taylor Wood, this is her first feature film and has been previously released in the U.K.
The film tells the story of John Lennon’s teenage years, this is not a Beatles movie, but a John Lennon film - about what shapes him into becoming who he is.

We are given an insight into Lennon’s younger years as he struggles to define himself. This is a story of a boy growing up into a budding artist. Lennon’s mother is involved in a seedy life in the heart of Liverpool, challenged with creating a family and not accomplishing it. Lennon connects with other musicians and is supported by his Aunt Mimi, who doles out tough love that, at the time, he does not appreciate. Relationships win out and Lennon forges friendships with Paul McCartney and George Harrison as they begin their odyssey of music.

The film is brilliantly crafted – you feel like a bystander on the quiet streets of Liverpool watching events unfold. With Aaron Johnson playing the teenaged Lennon he puts on a highly believable performance, and puts you right into Lennon’s shoes, strumming his guitar.

want some real money? read on!

2010-03-16T10:55:00.003-04:00

The Certified General Accountants of Ontario have a cool online accounting contest for you to check out...and win some money!

You need to sign up at http://cga-ontario.org and choose your level of difficulty - you have to log on by 3pm! The contest begins at 4pm!

Got that? Register by 3pm, compete starting at 4pm.

SO - you can choose between basic and intermediate level and there are 100 multiple choice financial accounting questions.

For Basic:

1st place gets you $4,000 cash and $5,000 scholarship towards a CGA program of studies.
2nd place - $2,000 cash and $5,000 scholarship (same as above).
3rd place - $1,000 cash and the scholarship (same as above).

Intermediate:

1st place - $5,000 cash and $5,000 scholarship (same as above).
2nd - $3,000 cash and scholarship (same as above).
3rd - $1,500 cash and scholarship (same as above).

ALSO - $100 and a scholarship worth $1,000 is granted to the winning student from each institution that has students registered.

So get to it!

presidential debate.

2010-03-15T14:39:00.003-04:00

Today at noon, the two presidential candidates - Rob McGarry and Joe Scalia - sat down in front of staff and students to debate on the issues that matter most.

Both candidates clearly have a passion for student politics and were able to communicate their passion, but let's get to the details:

Scalia and McGarry both touted the importance of communication to students - in letting them know about the FSU and how it can help students. Other topics included school spirit, communication with faculty (both said they had good relationships with faculty), Fleming, the student health plan, priorities and the student code of conduct and whether it should apply to offences off-campus (both thought it should not apply to offences off-campus).

While neither candidate really differed in opinion - increased communication was a popular answer - both seemed to have a vision for the next year. Scalia has the benefit of already being on council as this past year's VP finance and being involved in current issues, so he was able to give more tangible answers - such as what to improve on the student health plan (vision care, equipment rentals, vaccinations, etc.) and letting students know that many of the things they asked about, he was already working on (sustainability audit) or a part of - ex: part of the student code of conduct review committee.

However, McGarry has held the position of VP internal previously and is currently a very active member on SAC, so he has also been privy to some of the issues, is knowledgeable about the college and its staff and faculty, and his experience in his journalism and communications program will help in reaching out to students, he said.

Important topics and where the candidates stand:

Priorities for next year?
Rob: Engaging students, using different channels. Objectives - having a more active role (referring to FSU standing up for students, like in the case of the LTC strike) and being available to students whenever he can.
Joe: 1) Getting class reps early, 2) sustainable initiatives - establishing a sustainability coordinator, 3) open forums, video blog with FSU newsletter, 4) events - more open mic nights, 5) more events like the free market event, 6) follow-up on any student concerns.

Relationship/sometimes butting heads with the college?
Joe: Said he would be okay standing up to the college. Gave the example of how the college would like to use some of the campus improvement fees for a security initiative, but he and current president, Jabari Cooper, disagree it's in the best interest of students and are looking into more sustainable means to give the money too so they have defended their position to the college and not given the money.
Rob: Said the relationship between the college and the FSU is a "fine balance." In terms of the college, he said they sometimes overstep their boundaries and that hopefully he'd be able to collaborate with them and get a solution.

Fleming?
Joe: Never know what's going to happen. Wants to explain to residences that partying isn't wrong but out-of-control partying is. Acknowledged it goes both ways - the police are sometimes too strict - if parties aren't out of control then the police shouldn't be strict with those involved.
Rob: He also said he would talk to students during move-ins to focus on responsible partying and having a positive relationship with the police and media.
*There was also the question of Fanshawe's reputation in London - both candidates agreed that improved relations with the media and community are imperative.

Students asked about different groups on campus such as single parent students, international students and students in residences, keeping the candidates aware of the diversity of issues at Fanshawe. Their general response was more communication with these groups to see what it is they need and want from the FSU and facilitating that.

And their choice of animal if they could be any?
Joe: Narwhal because it is essentially a unicorn of the sea.
Rob: Tiger, decisive.

Voting starts TODAY and ends THURSDAY - so log onto FanshaweOnline to cast your votes.
http://www.fsu.ca/
Speeches from the other positions will be tomorrow at noon at Forwell Hall.
The big announcements will be made Thursday at 4pm at the Out Back Shack.

jean-paul de roover to play london saturday!

2010-03-11T14:28:00.003-05:00

We've featured him before in the Interrobang last fall. His CD case (which he designed) for his album Windows and Doors folds out into a 3D house (yeah...YEAH). For his single, Fix, his video consists of about 2,022 still photographs and over 600 bandaids.

Frankly, he's almost TOO creative - we're kidding. He's a cool dude.

We recently spoke with him while he was at Canadian Music Week in T.O. during his cross-Canada tour.

This time around with touring, he's been pleased with the results.

"I've quadrupled my audience at every venue so far...There's growth and I'm really excited about that. There are lots of people talking about the video."

(See the video craziness below - MuchMusic's picked it up)

For those interested in seeing De Roover live - you can expect a high energy, one-man show.

"I like to make sure people at the show are having as good a time as I am," he said.
"(There will be) new songs and new takes on old songs."

Since it's just him playing rather than a full band, it's also pretty exciting to watch him construct his songs solo.

"You're literally watching me build the songs from scratch," he said.

De Roover will be playing at the East Village Arts Co-Op at 757 Dundas St. It's actually a singer-songwriter night as well so sign-up if you'd like!
For more information visit: http://www.eastvillagearts.com/ and http://jeanpaulderoover.com

canadian music week coverage!

2010-03-10T10:57:00.001-05:00

What would posses a student to extend his reading week and take on the bustling Gardiner Express Way, fight through traffic snarls and battle the endless crowds? The answer is the Canadian Music Week - the largest celebration of music in Canada composed of seemingly endless festival-esque concert series and conferences. Enter Baden Roth, currently wrapping up his 2nd year in multimedia design and production at Fanshawe College in London, ON, Canada,. He is doing freelance for the Interrobang this week {March 10-14th} and covering what is now the 28th year of Canada’s longest-running music industry conference. The conference discusses where the Canadian Music Industry is in relevance to the present. This week includes back-to-back nights of upcoming Canadian talent and exclusive interviews as well as a rather high energy film festival as well. From a music doc of The Doors to a premiere of the critically acclaimed music bio of the origins of John Lennon.

Tonight Baden will be covering Jason Collet @ Lees Palace who will be making a stop at Call The Office on Friday – Review To Follow. (Interview too)

handsome men's club.

2010-03-10T08:17:00.002-05:00

The Handsome Men's Club - Watch more Funny Videos

Happy Hump Day!

olympic news: the good, the great and the sexy.

2010-02-26T12:11:00.003-05:00

How hot is Canada at the Olympics right now?
Our athletes are showing courage and kickass-ness. And we're all damn proud.

Let's start with figure skater Joannie Rochette. After she arrived in Vancouver, she was struck with the news that her mother had died due to a heart attack.
Yet she still went ahead with a stunning short program, placing third and continued onto her long program last night, winning third overall.

In her own words from the Toronto Star:

"Tonight, for those four minutes, I could only think of my skating, which was good because I needed to be in a state of mind where I couldn't be touched, where I could be in a bubble ... I still don't know how I could do this and not cry before the music started. I feel proud and the result did not matter. I'm happy to be on the podium. It was a lifetime project for me and my mom and we achieved that."

Our women's hockey team won GOLD last night! And they celebrated on the ice with some champ, and some cigars...and now the International Olympic committee is having a hissy fit over it. Really, IOC? Really? Relax. These women worked damn hard and the ice didn't get hurt. Slow your roll.

And finally, this is a little shout-out to all those lovely Olympic athletes and the stamina they're showing in their sports...and in the sack, apparently.

According to the National Post, health officials in Vancouver have provided 100,000 condoms to about 7,000 Olympic athletes and officials - which means roughly 14 condoms per person.

But as of Wednesday - supplies were low, so an emergency shipment from the Canadian Foundation for AIDS research of 8,500 was sent out and arrived yesterday.

Free condoms started to be disturbed back in 1992 at the Barcelona games. Apparently though, the Toronto Star reports that this seems to be the first time there's been a shortage.

Oh Canada :)

perez shout-out.

2010-02-19T14:15:00.002-05:00

Last year we posted about the Health Unit's...let's say...unique game aimed at helping youth learn about sex.

Well it seems that the Internet's most despised blogger, Perez, has even picked up on it!

Check out his shout-out:
http://perezhilton.com/2010-02-17-heres-one-way-to-teach-kids-about-condoms

We're happy to see he found the penis arms and sperm with teeth as disturbing as we did.

olympic gold means cash.

2010-02-16T10:26:00.004-05:00

Alexandre Bilodeau (centre)

For those of you tuning into the Olympics, you know this past weekend saw our first gold medal on home soil! (The fact that it's taken us this long...another story).

Alexandre Bilodeau of Quebec killed the men's moguls - and is set to be have endorsement deals chomping at the bit for him and his, frankly, lovely personal story.

You've seen the commercials - Bilodeau with his brother, who he says is his inspiration, with cerebral palsy. But while this whole thing might seem contrived, it doesn't. It's really pretty beautiful.

But naturally, marketers and advertisers are salivating over a story like that. Bilodeau is estimated to make $1-million from endorsements since winning the gold, reported the Globe and Mail.

However, of course it's not as much as what American athletes can pull - but it's nice to know a good Canadian boy is getting some attention.

London - a low romance zone?

2010-02-11T13:34:00.004-05:00

According to Amazon.ca, London ranks tenth in its list of the top 20 most romantic cities in Canada.

Are you surprised? Is this not a shocker?

Windsor snagged the bottom of the list (not necessarily surprising...no offense, Windsor-ites...ians?).

And apparently, Saskatoon is the most romantic city in Canada.

Yeah.

Saskatoon.

The city's mayor, Don Atchison claims it may be because, "We've got a lot of very passionate people in Saskatoon. (We have) some very warm-blooded people."

If you're wondering about the strict criteria and process by which this list was created - it was based on the sales of romance novels, DVDs and Michael Buble CDS.

We didn't make that up.

Cute, Amazon.ca. Real cute.

To read more about our ranking, check out the London Free Press.

golden boy.

2010-02-04T13:21:00.005-05:00

It's awards season!

With the Golden Globes, the SAGs and Grammys behind us - it's time to look forward to the big night surrounding a little man named Oscar.

This week the Oscar nominations were announced - with first-time nominees and the newly expanded Best Picture category (now 10 movies are nominated).

Sandra Bullock continues her awards season sweep with a nomination for Best Actress (she's one of the first-timers), along with Precious' breakout star Gabourey Sidibe and An Education's Carey Mulligan. They're against heavy hitters Meryl Streep (nominated a record 16th time - but naturally...it's MERYL) and Helen Mirren.

The Best Actor category sees Jeff Bridges (Crazy Heart), Colin Firth (A Single Man), Morgan Freeman (Invictus), George Clooney (Up in the Air) and Jeremy Renner (Hurt Locker) against each other.

And in the big Best Picture category there are:

“Avatar” James Cameron and Jon Landau, Producers (you would hope the most expensive movie made would get nominated for SOMETHING)

“The Blind Side” Nominees to be determined (a bit surprising, critics claim it's nominated to reach out to the "minivan demographic")

“District 9” Peter Jackson and Carolynne Cunningham, Producers

“An Education” Finola Dwyer and Amanda Posey, Producers

“The Hurt Locker” Nominees to be determined (James Cameron's ex-wife Kathryn Bigelow directed)

“Inglourious Basterds” Lawrence Bender, Producer

“Precious: Based on the Novel ‘Push’ by Sapphire” Lee Daniels, Sarah Siegel-Magness and Gary Magness, Producers

“A Serious Man” Joel Coen and Ethan Coen, Producers

“Up” Jonas Rivera, Producer (only animated movie...unless you count Avatar's blue people)

“Up in the Air” Daniel Dubiecki, Ivan Reitman and Jason Reitman, Producers

There you have it! One shocker was that The Hangover, despite critics suggesting it may get nominated, was shafted - but comedies never make it into the Oscars, do they?

So what do YOU think? Who will be the winners? Any surprises? Let us know!

To see the full list of nominees, visit: OSCAR.COM

faculty & union details. what it means for you.

2010-02-02T12:24:00.003-05:00

News has been buzzing around campus about a possible strike on February 11th.

Key word: possible - as in may not happen.

So let's discuss what's actually going on.

OPSEU called for binding arbitration on Monday, February 1 (this essentially would mean that both sides would be negotiating and bargaining hardcore until midnight on February 10 and anything unresolved would be put to an arbitrator for a binding resolution. If that offer was refused - union could strike on February 11).

The most recent news is that the college faculty is exercising their right to ask the Ontario Labour Relations Board to put their final offer to the union membership to vote on.
So faculty in all 24 colleges will decide whether they accept the offer.
The date for that vote is still being determined.

But we will let you know as soon as that's released to us.

If you have any questions about what's going on - let us know!

all you need is the interrobang's LOVEline.

2010-02-01T08:33:00.005-05:00

"Nothing takes the taste out of peanut butter quite like unrequited love."

Charlie Brown was onto something.
Don't let your love go unrequited. Indulge your Valentine's Day sappiness, or just send a shout out to friends in the February 8th issue of the Interrobang.

Your message should be a maximum of about 35-40 words long, and should be submitted before Wednesday, February 3 at noon.

Fill out this form if you're interested: http://www.fsu.ca/news_lovelines.asp

Whether you want to reach out to that person you spent a special night with post-Jack's, or the person who doesn't know you exist or even do something sweet for the one you're with - send something in!

apple unveils latest toy.

2010-01-27T13:50:00.003-05:00

Steve Jobs with the iPad. (From BBC News)

Apple has presented the world with it's newest piece of technological fun! The iPad.
Awkward name aside, this PC tablet - basically like a giant iPhone - has been referred to as a "third category" between smartphones and personal computers, namely laptops, reported BBC News online.

Besides looking pretty nifty, it apparently has a battery life of up to 10 hours...impressive...makes you wonder how they haven't come up with a battery like that for other products yet....hmmmm.

Either way, here's the iPad! Who wants it?

news news newsy news news.

2010-01-25T09:18:00.004-05:00

(The need for this picture will be explained below.)

Happy Monday!

Let's get your week started with what's happening today:

- City council is recommending that those who organize the Rock the Park concert in Harris Park be required to pay a $5,000 security deposit for this upcoming year, as last year there were numerous noise complaints from those in nearby neighbourhoods. The proposal is set to go before the city's community and protective services committee today.

- Saturday's rally at Victoria Park, protesting the PM's proposal to prorogue Parliament (hello P's), saw 500 people in attendance, speaking out against how Harper's decision is a "waste of time and money," reported the London Free Press (London Free Press )

- The cast of MTV's Jersey Shore is asking for more money for the second season of their insanely popular (not sure why) show. Associated Content reports that "for Jersey Shore season two, MTV offered a bonus to each of the cast members of $10,000 as well as a payment of $5,000 per episode. That is a lot of money for these cast members, but they rejected it apparently stating that they wanted every cast member (eight main ones) to get the same raise. Now MTV has countered with an offer of $10,000 per episode..." Really...for people with names like Snooki and The Situation? REALLY?
(Associated Content)

- Canadian families are happily welcoming Haitian orphans into their homes. Twenty-four children arrived in Ottawa on Sunday. The children involved had already been pre-approved for adoption, but the earthquakes sped up the process.
(Globe and Mail)

- This past Saturday was yet another pre-Oscars awards show, the Screen Actors' Guild awards. Both Sandra Bullock and Jeff Bridges both won their respective "best actor" nods, making it appear as those Oscars may be next. Other winners included "Inglourious Basterds" for best ensemble cast, while Mo'Nique took home the supporting actor award for "Precious" and Christopher Waltz won for "Inglourious Basterds" in the same category.
(Canadian Press)

- The Help for Haiti Now celeb-studded telethon raised $57-million for Haiti relief. Kind of nice to see celebrities getting together to do something amazing instead of fake celebrities with bump-it hairstyles asking for more money to make asinine comments, isn't it? Just saying.
(Popsugar)

Check back for more information, fun facts and judgment about Jersey Shore :)

rally rally.

2010-01-22T12:03:00.005-05:00

(Yeah, we can't get over this picture either.)

Harper wants to prorogue Parliament and Canadians everywhere are saying, "No thanks."

Whether it's because he's just avoiding the controversy swirling around about the Afghan detainees or it's just to generally inconvenience the country - there's been an audible outcry.

With protests popping up everywhere, London's getting in on the activist action.

For those who want to send a message - they can be at Victoria Park, Saturday at noon where a rally has been organized to take place.

http://www.lfpress.com/news/london/2010/01/21/12566046.html

London helps Haiti with music.

2010-01-21T13:01:00.004-05:00

Looking for a way to help Haiti?

The Aeolian Hall is bringing together some great talents for a great cause tonight at 7 p.m.

Featuring local musicians Clark Bryan, Marion Miller, Julia MacGregor, Steve Clarke, The Alfredo Caxaj Latin Ensemble, Catherine McInnes, Jennifer Thorpe, Mosaic and others - the evening aims to raise $10,000 for Haiti relief.

The event is "pay-what-you-can" with the proceeds going to the Red Cross. There will also be CD sales, raffles and a silent auction - all proceeds also going to relief efforts.

The important thing out of this event, and other events like it, is that people are aware that continuous aid is needed for this region - not just when the camera lense is focused on it, said Clark Bryan, executive director of Aeolian Hall and one of the evening's performers.

"It's an amazing thing and it's easier to see because it's in the media. But one thing that will sustain is...how do we get people to understand the necessity to give when it isn't in the media at all," he said. "We want to keep one foot planted firmly in the social activist soil."

"It's going to be a very powerful evening and I'm looking forward to it."

Those interested in attending can come to the Aeolian Hall at 795 Dundas St. E. at Rectory at 7 p.m. or contact the following people for more information:

Clark Bryan, Executive Director, The Aeolian

clarkbryan@bellnet.ca 519 672 7950

Catherine McInnes, Artistic Director of Home County Folk Festival

cathmcinnes@sympatico.ca 519 434 0510

Alfredo Caxaj, Artistic Director of Sunfest

acaxaj@hotmail.com 519 641 3044

happy 20-10.

2010-01-08T08:43:00.003-05:00

Welcome back and Happy New Year!

Here's to a new decade hopefully filled with new debacles, debates and general good times.

While we could start the new year off with a lively debate on what the heck the point of the People's Choice awards are (sure, people should have a say but it's like watching a high school student council election) - we're choosing to highlight something all you citizens of London should know about.

Did you know that, according to studies, London - not Toronto, as you might assume - gets the most toxins pumped into its skies than anywhere in Ontario?

Yeah. Gross.

According to the London Free Press:

"At more than eight million kilograms of toxins a year, not counting what blows in from the industrial U.S. midwest, the air discharge is 40% higher than the pollutants released above Canada's largest metropolis, the Toronto area, which ranks second in Ontario.

More than 6% of the pollutants released are suspected of causing cancer, while more than 9% are linked to reproductive and developmental defects. Examples of chemicals released include benzene and arsenic."

Delicious.

If anything, hopefully this news will get people thinking, talking and developing solutions.

Want to learn more? See the rest of the article at: http://www.lfpress.com/news/london/2010/01/08/12388701-sun.html

who's ready for holidays?

2009-11-30T13:44:00.004-05:00

"We're kicking off our fun old fashion family Christmas by heading out into the country in the old front-wheel drive sleigh to embrace the frosty majesty of the winter landscape and select that most important of Christmas symbols."

You're probably more focused on your final assignments and exam prep to be even thinking about the fast-approaching (it's DECEMBER tomorrow!) holiday season - but this is just a friendly reminder that the Interrobang's special holiday issue will be out this Friday.
We've got holiday drink ideas, top 10 gifts for girls and guys to take some of the guesswork out of the stressful task of present-buying, and more.
We're also adding a little warm fuzziness to this year's issue with our 31 Days of Giving calendar. A bunch of local charities are included, as well as links to their sites.
We all know the current situation sucks, compounded with that annoying bus strike, but we still want to inspire you to think of extending a hand, some change or your time to some worthy causes.
We also have our People of the Year list - a look back on the people who've done something kickass in '09.

So, if you need a break from studying and stress - pick up our final issue of the year on Friday and all next week :)

Cheers!

new moon mania.

2009-11-19T14:54:00.007-05:00

We almost forgot amongst the strikes and the beginning of holiday craziness...it's time for all Twi-hards to explode over the release of the next film in the Twilight saga, New Moon.

To say this movie will be big is a bit of an understatement. The pre-sales already broke records - several THOUSANDS of New Moon showtimes are sold out (mainly to buyers under 24 years old) and they've surpassed The Dark Knight and the Harry Potter franchise, and even Peter Jackson's legendary Lord of the Rings (we're just as surprised as you are).

The reviews from advanced screenings of the film say the obvious - the film isn't deep stuff, the acting is okay given the material they're given and dedicated (okay, obsessed) fans of the series will be getting exactly what they want (only less Robert Pattinson, but true fans already knew that because they've read the book 100 plus times).

We don't want to seem anti-Twilight - to each their own - but we're just warning those out there who might want to check it out, you might be a little confused and it might not be as entertaining for you as it will be for the hundreds of teenage girls sitting behind you.

However, for those of you who can't wait to get a piece of the action....we give you gratuitous pictures of the cast:

strikes away.

2009-11-16T10:34:00.003-05:00

It looks like a strike's upon us...and it sucks.

How many of you are struggling to find rides, or getting up super early to walk to class?
How many are concerned about making it to exams, handing in projects on time?
Don't even want to THINK about what winter will be like if this strike lasts?

If you're looking to grab a ride from a fellow Fanshawe student, check out the FSU's Ride Board and see if anyone in your area is offering rides...there are a lot posted, so you might be able to score one and all you have to do is split gas costs.

http://www.fsu.ca/ride_board_listing.asp

In the meantime, if you've got beef with this whole strike debacle...tell us about it! We want to hear from you.

latest on the ltc.

2009-11-13T11:09:00.002-05:00

If you read the London Free Press this morning, you would've seen that the London's mayor is getting involved in the situation - not taking sides, but simply impressing upon either side the importance of settling this because the strike ultimately does nothing but hurt the many, many people who rely on the bus.

So keep your eye on the web this weekend to check updates, if there are any, on the situation.

Here's the article we mentioned: http://www.lfpress.com/news/london/2009/11/13/11730316-sun.html

And LTC's site for the latest news: http://www.ltconline.ca/

remembering a brave canadian.

2009-11-09T12:53:00.005-05:00

(jessesjourney.com)

Last Friday, Jesse Davidson of Jesse's Journey passed away at 29 years old. Jesse was battling Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.
He was instrumental in bringing awareness to the disease and inspired many through his cross-Ontario trek in 1995 that raised a million dollars for research.

He graduated Fanshawe in 2002 and became one of six Distinguished Alumni in 2006.

A private memorial service will be held for family today, and a public service will be held tomorrow at 10 a.m. at St. Paul's Cathedral at 472 Richmond St.

In lieu of flowers, family has asked that donations be made to Jesse's Journey at
www.jessesjourney.com or mail to PO Box 5099 London , Ontario N6A 4M8.

for the love of (awkward) families.

2009-11-06T13:01:00.004-05:00

Since it's Friday, we'd like to give you a little treat.

Awkward Family Photos - slightly horrifying, hilarious and always awkward.

We've already perused about six pages of these gems, and we wanted to share them with you because you can't get any better than this on a Friday afternoon.

What is WRONG with that Easter Bunny?

http://awkwardfamilyphotos.com

i wanna be a vj.

2009-11-05T14:44:00.005-05:00

Kelly Peter, left, and Liz Trinnear

Cue "Eye of the Tiger." These two London ladies have come this far (top 8 out of 4000!) and have until the end of November to prove they have what it takes to be the next MuchMusic VJ.

MuchMusic is on the hunt for their next VJ.

And oddly enough, not one but two of its Top 8 finalists in the MuchMusic VJ 2.0 search are Londoners: Kelly Peter, a Fanshawe broadcast graduate and Liz Trinnear, of Western.

The two ladies are both clearly have what it takes to be the next face of the channel, and in the latest issue of the Interrobang, we talk to both about what makes them stand out from the other VJ hopefuls.

But there's one question that didn't make it into the paper - and frankly, it's an important deciding factor:

If you could compare your hosting personality to an ice cream flavour, what flavour would it be and why?

Liz: Peanut butter chocolate. The peanut butter - it's always a staple, you can always rely on it, and the chocolate adds a little extra sweetness, a little extra pizazz.

Kelly: Cotton candy - fun and colourful! It's never boring.

Insightful and delicious-sounding. Voters will have a lot of thinking to do.

Check out the rest of the interview in the latest issue of Fanshawe's Interrobang - out Friday!

If you want to vote for Kelly or Liz - here are their MuchMusic links:

Kelly: http://vj.muchmusic.com/kelly/

Liz: http://vj.muchmusic.com/liz/

2010 oscar hosts - double the pleasure.

2009-11-04T09:15:00.004-05:00

(etonline)

Next year's Oscars award show will be returning to its roots of two hosts on the iconic evening.

Steve Martin and 30 Rock's Alec Baldwin have been announced as the MC's for Hollywood's biggest night.

The men responded in a statement:

"Martin said: 'I am happy to co-host the Oscars with my enemy Alec Baldwin.' Baldwin retorted with: 'I don’t play the banjo but I am thrilled to be hosting the Oscars -- it’s the opportunity of a lifetime.'"
(National Post)

Last year, Hugh Jackman's musical-filled night gave the Oscars a much-needed ratings boost - so it'll be interesting to see if these guys can bring the same results.

walmart wants you to save even when you're dead.

2009-10-30T12:05:00.004-04:00

(Photo: BBC News)

Walmart is selling coffins.
As much as we could jazz that up with some witty joke - it's pretty ridiculous on its own.

BBC News reported that the retailer is allowing customers to pay for their coffins 12 months early with no interest and they can be sent within 48 hours - talk about convenience!

The coffins range from $895 for a steel one to a bronze model at $2,889 - practically a bargain.

So - Walmart coffins. Should funeral homes be concerned? Do you think this might be a good idea, making the grieving and funeral-planning process a little easier on the pocketbook?

For more information, check out: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/8333198.stm

fanshawe fashion grad rock LG fashion week.

2009-10-28T14:32:00.006-04:00

(Photo: Jenna Marie Wakani)

Toronto's LG Fashion Week featured some summery fashion from Fanshawe graduate, Brandon R. Dwyer.

In the latest issue of the Interrobang, we have an interview with Brandon what inspired the collection and what he's up to next.

Leigh-Ann Waller, program co-ordinator for fashion design, said they entire faculty is very proud, and Brandon's story is especially inspiring to those just starting out in the program.

"It's been exciting to share the news with all our first year students," she said. She added that Brandon gives them an example of a designer who's "well on the way to establishing themselves in the Canadian market," and "gives them a goal to aspire to."

Check out Brandon on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/pages/Brandon-R-Dwyer/56241957518?ref=ts

i see rich dead people.

2009-10-28T11:15:00.004-04:00

Forbe's just released their top earning dead celebrities list and the top earners may be surprising.

1. Designer, Yves St. Laurent with $350-million.
2. Songwriters, Rodgers and Hammerstein with $235-million.
3. Michael Jackson at $90-million.
4. Elvis Presley with $55-million.
5. J.R.R. Tolkien with $50-million.

So were the top 5 what you expected or did you think someone else would be at number one?

To see the rest of the list, check out: http://www.forbes.com/2009/10/27/top-earning-dead-celebrities-list-dead-celebs-09-entertainment_land.html

lost soul stroll.

2009-10-27T13:51:00.005-04:00

Didn't have time to check out the spooky Lost Soul Stroll this year?
Here's some video footage of last Thursday's stroll...the visuals may be dark, but you get the idea.

Still wanting some Lost Soul Stroll action? Why not join them at their 2nd Annual Lost Soul Stroll Hallowe'en Spectacular at the Black Shire Pub this Saturday?

http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/event.php?eid=142718541816&ref=share

H1N1 clinics start tomorrow.

2009-10-26T15:02:00.002-04:00

19,500 doses of the H1N1 vaccine are expected to be delivered this week.

However the clinics are only limited to:

— Health-care workers;

— Children ages six months to five years old

— Household members of children younger than six months old;

— Pregnant women 20-plus weeks of pregnancy or who have underlying medical conditions.

Clinics for the general population will be announced soon.

For more information see: http://www.healthunit.com/

about face.

2009-10-26T10:23:00.004-04:00

(Photo: ABC News)

You always read about this stuff, but it never ceases to amaze...

James O'Neal of Woodinville, Washington is now experiencing what it's like to have a more normal face and is enjoying breathing out of his nose - something that was impossible before as his face was essentially taken over by a giant tumour.

Could you imagine?!

Read more about this man at: http://abcnews.go.com/Health/MindMoodNews/face-disfigured-man/Story?id=8902953&page=1

the rats are in the house.

2009-10-26T09:36:00.003-04:00

First it was parties - now it's rats.
Fleming can't seem to catch a break.

The London Free Press made the Fleming rat problem its front page story for Saturday. Apparently the problem was huge in vacant lots - which is giving the city ammunition for their argument to force landlords to maintain these vacant properties or face huge fines.

So we want to find some people who have seen these "squirrel-sized" rodents and what do you think landlords need to be doing with the vacant lots?

To read more about the rat problem: http://www.lfpress.com/news/london/2009/10/24/11510746-sun.html

preview of the avenue...q, that is.

2009-10-22T13:28:00.002-04:00

Broadway's Avenue Q will be making it's way into London come November. In the latest issue of the Interrobang (out Friday), we've got an interview with ensemble member, Julianna Lee.
Yes, the play involves puppets - but that only adds to its outrageousness.

Here are some videos of Avenue Q to give you a little sneak peek at this hilarious show.

The Internet is for Porn (not the best quality, but you get the idea and you can hear the song)

Everyone's a Little Bit Racist (you can watch the beginning to get context - or move to 1.56 for the song)

Tickets are on sale at the John Labatt Centre http://johnlabattcentre.com or the Biz Booth.

let's get this over with...

2009-10-21T08:53:00.003-04:00

(ABC)

Since we posted when the story broke, it's only right that we post when it's basically over.

Balloon boy was a hoax.

Surprised? Didn't think so.

The crazy reality show-obsessed parents, Richard and Mayumi Heene, may face felony charges and may have their children taken away by children services - which seems reasonable given their notably unstable home life.

Apparently police have been to the house twice in the past year, once for a possible domestic violence situation.

It's all very sad that a family has come to this. It's an interesting but somewhat dismal case study in what some people will do for the elusive 15 minutes of fame that appears so easily accessible nowadays. However, this attempt will likely end in severe consequences.

For more information: http://www.cbsnews.com/blogs/2009/10/19/crimesider/entry5398335.shtml

texting = death.

2009-10-20T13:12:00.003-04:00

Admit it, a lot of us are pretty talented at texting and driving - or so we think.
In an upcoming issue of the Interrobang - we're letting students know about the hands-free law that will be in effect on October 26, meaning it will now be illegal for you to fiddle with your phone while on the road.
So to give some motivation to put down the cell, we give you this video.
After watching it, we're hoping maybe you'll reconsider whipping out your iPhone - even at red lights.

Horrifying, isn't it?

because it's monday...

2009-10-19T11:40:00.004-04:00

We bring you...

baby in a pumpkin patch!

Photo courtesy of http://globeandmail.com/Pawel Dwulit - Cdn. Press

Look at that kid go!

Give us a break - it's Monday - we're tired :)

sex games.

2009-10-16T09:02:00.002-04:00

Do you know what today is? Sex issue day!

And to celebrate - the Middlesex London Health Unit has released an interactive game called "Adventures in Sex City" for your sexual awareness enjoyment.

They collaborated with Mind Your Mind, the internationally acclaimed London-based youth mental health website and support program, to create ways of getting the message out on sexual health. It was largely guided by youth input.

You can choose from colourfully-named characters like "Captain Condom," "Wonder Vag," and "Power Pap" then head on to battle the evil "Sperminator" by answering a series of questions to test your sexual knowledge. With condom shields and penis arms, as well as a whole lot of good facts to know - "Adventures in Sex City" is a great way to see if you're really as sexually aware as you think you are.
We're guessing some of the questions might throw you.

Check out the game at: http://www.healthunit.com/sectionList.aspx?sectionID=165 or http://getitonlondon.com

balloon boy bogus?

2009-10-16T08:10:00.003-04:00

Apparently the big balloon boy hoopla may have been a hoax all along - orchestrated by parents' who have a reality TV past.

The boy was not in the balloon - he was actually found hiding in a box in the rafters of his garage.

It all came out on Larry King when the boy said, quite innocently, that they "did it for the show."

It still remains to be seen which show they're referring to but the fact of the matter is - this family is looking like a joke right now.

As Boss Editor said this morning - kids that age will not stay in one place for four hours, so the whole thing sounds a little strange.

What do you think? Is this boy a victim of an attention-hungry family?

Info from the Associated Press: http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5ie0x4tv2tFVwxzfVpFiJG47OvbgwD9BC5KH80

balloon boy.

2009-10-15T15:00:00.004-04:00

Photo: CNN.com

A six-year-old boy found himself on quite the aerial adventure when he climbed into a homemade balloon aircraft made by his parents.

He is now floating over eastern Colorado.

Don't believe us?

See for yourself!

http://news.bnonews.com/xh2m
and here's CNN's developing story: http://www.cnn.com/2009/US/10/15/colorado.boy.balloon/index.html

Wild.

beat it.

2009-10-15T10:10:00.003-04:00

Yesterday a man was apprehended due to his violent behaviour at Western's Social Science building.

The man's resistance to campus police resulted in London Police Services being called and his subsequent arrest.

However - many of UWO's students are questioning police tactics with the arrest.

This is allegedly the video of the arrest. We want to know what YOU think about the tactics used? Too much or the right amount of force for someone who allegedly violently resisted arrest?

For more information on the situation, check out: http://www.lfpress.com/news/london/2009/10/15/11409981.html

where the wild things premiered.

2009-10-14T12:45:00.005-04:00

Author Maurice Sendak, Spike Jonze and Max Records, who plays Max in the film

Last night marked the New York premiere of Spike Jonze's Where the Wild Things Are, based on the book by Maurice Sendak.

The movie will be released to theatres this Friday, October 16.

If you've seen the preview, you already know that it's a visual masterpiece - perfectly recreating the children's classic for the big screen.

The preview alone literally gives you chills - helped along by Arcade Fire's "Wake Up."

Speaking of music - the Yeah Yeah Yeahs wild frontwoman Karen O penned the soundtrack, so you can expect that to be almost equally epic if you're a fan of her.

For those who have been living under a rock and had no idea this movie was coming out (c'mon, it's Where the Wild Things Are!), here's the preview for your viewing pleasure.

Photo credit: USA Today - http://www.usatoday.com/life/people/2009-10-14-wildthingspremiere_N.htm

hangover's oscar nod?

2009-10-13T13:49:00.005-04:00

Summer's (the year's?) most funniest movie may be getting more than just love from fans - it might even get a little love from the gold man, Oscar, himself.
According to Entertainment Weekly's Dave Karger (OscarWatch), his friend - an Oscar voter no doubt - said he believes that The Hangover will be one of the 10 films up for the Best Picture category in 2010.

As a huge fan of the flick, I support this whole-heartedly. Sure, past nominees have involved often epic melodramatic stories - but aren't we due for a little ridiculousness getting recognized?
What do you think? The Hangover for Best Picture? Zach Galifianakis for Best Supporting Actor? Heck, put him in the Best Actor category with the Pitts and the Day-Lewis'!

What do you think about this speculation?

jon stewart pwns CNN.

2009-10-13T13:17:00.006-04:00

Last night, Jon Stewart reminded CNN to stay on top of REAL fact-checking when he called them out for fact-checking an SNL skit - one that was a response to Obama's Nobel Peace Prize win and that poked fun at the fact that the president hasn't actually done anything on his presidential to-do list, so to speak.

Yeah - CNN investigated and reported on how they fact-checked an SNL skit.

Stewart said it perfectly himself - bringing up some old SNL skits.

"While you were doing your research, did you find out sharks live in water and don't give out candy-grams?...And that the majority of boxes do not have d*cks in them?"

Figure it out, CNN.

Want to see the rest of this brilliance?

http://watch.thecomedynetwork.ca/the-daily-show-with-jon-stewart/full-episodes/the-daily-show-with-jon-stewart---october-12-2009/#clip223012

We'll leave it there.

barack peaces.

2009-10-09T08:58:00.002-04:00

By now you must've heard that the new (is he still considered new?) president of the United States has been awarded this year's Nobel Peace Prize for his "extraordinary efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and co-operation between peoples" (Globe and Mail).
Barack Obama is undoubtedly a pretty amazing public figure - after all, he did call Kanye an "asshole" after the whole Taylor Swift/VMA debacle - but this did come as a bit of a surprise for a president who was nominated after only being in office for 11 days.
After all, as former prize winner Lech Walesa noted, he hasn't really done anything yet.
Walesa, a Polish dissident who, in the 1980s, led a decade-long solidarity movement that eventually usurped the Soviet rule, commented that "there hasn't been any contribution to peace yet. He's proposing things, he's initiating things, but he has yet to deliver."

So - does Obama deserve the award or is it too much too soon?

More information at: http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/world/barack-obama-wins-nobel-peace-prize/article1318102/

Happy T-Giving, from us to you.

2009-10-08T12:32:00.007-04:00

Whether you're going home or celebrating with friends here in the 'Don. We at the Interrobang wish you a Happy Thanksgiving - bear head, Canadian Club, hockey and all.

sexy time. high five!

2009-10-05T13:56:00.011-04:00

For those of you who didn't have the opportunity to visit the "Everything to do with Sex Show" that happened at the Western Fair on the October 2nd weekend - we've got a little peep show of what you missed. Mix in some bondage, a lot of dildos, and some body art - and you've got yourself a nice little Saturday.

corsets for every body. forbidden fantasies - oooooh.
that's uncle d to the right there. this is not your childhood jungle gym.
that could be true. fairly self-explanatory.