March 28, 2024

A Spoke retrospective, a glimpse into the news machine

The technology of today can be taken for granted. Keyboards instead of typewriters, computer screens instead of plain paper, virtual classrooms instead of the hardwood of times past.  Through the Spoke online archive, one can see that some things never change. Since Spoke’s introduction in 1968, the issues matched the times for everyone, not just those on the other side of the pen and paper.  One might consider modern journalism … Continued

The secret meaning behind your Valentine’s Day flowers

Roses that are red, some that are blue, and ones of many other shades line the shelves of flower shops everywhere in anticipation of their big day. Valentine’s Day.  The Valentine’s Day anticipation is no different for Jennifer Poczik, a local florist who spends her days caring for a variety of plants and flowers. Every year on Feb. 14, people around the globe give gifts, often of flowers and candy, … Continued

“Knowledge is power.” How Waterloo Region is making connections during Black History Month

Organizations around the region are hosting a variety of events to educate and connect residents during Black History Month. From events like guest speakers, live streams, and music, to more active events like workshops, and getting outside, there is a way for everyone to participate. Even though all of Conestoga’s events to honour Black History Month are being held digitally, Conestoga Student Inc. (CSI) members, like Premium Event Coordinator Kyle … Continued

Internationally educated nurses in Canada want to hit the field, but are stuck on the sidelines

Many internationally trained nurses in Ontario are eager to help during the pandemic but can’t contribute because their credentials aren’t accepted in Canada. To upgrade their credentials, some are attending Conestoga College’s 16-month Enhanced Practice Internationally Educated Nurses (IEN) program, or the Personal Support Worker (PSW) program. But upgrading doesn’t come without its challenges. Sheila Marie Pascual immigrated to Canada last August and began Conestoga’s PSW program in 2021. Before … Continued

When bone-chilling weather arrives, don’t forget to protect your pets

As the winter months continue to roll on, it is essential to make sure pets get proper protection from the Canadian cold. The months of February and early March can see some extreme cold, so being aware of the weather is important for your animal’s safety.  “If it’s too cold for us to go outside, it’s likely too cold for our pets too,” said Calla James, the director of community … Continued

New Waterloo store sells nostalgia in the form of candy

Sweet Life Candy & Pop Shop has brought its wide variety of candy and sweets to customers in Waterloo Region. The colourful candy store opened its doors to a new location on Jan. 7, 2022. “I knew it was going to be a great experience … a great start in the Waterloo area, because who doesn’t love candy right?” said Andrew Ariganello, the owner of Sweet Life Candy & Pop … Continued

Cybersecurity experts warn of social media impact. Phishing a particular risk

By Ryan B Chan Cybercrime has nearly doubled since 2018 with a total impact on the global economy nearly reaching one trillion in 2020, according to Parachute. While cybercrime usually impacts businesses, there is still a significant risk for individuals through social media phishing. While phishing has historically been done via email where users would click links that would expose them to malware, a study by Blackhat found that social … Continued

College and university students are getting inked after isolation: here’s the trends they’re into

With restrictions lifted once more in Ontario, tattoo shops have reopened – booked and busier than ever. College and university students have been flooding towards the shops, eager to poke their skin with the most popular tattoo trends, from minimalist flowers to the bold colours of American traditional. Part of the reason tattoo shops have been so busy lately, is because of backed up appointments; clients whose appointments have been … Continued

OPINION: Valentine’s Day is overrated

According to Statistics Canada, as of 2019 there were over 15 million couples and 12 million single Canadians. Whether you’re in a committed relationship or living the single life, there’s a good chance that you’re still expected to buy someone a gift for Valentine’s Day.