Creating Your Own Path

Posted on January 19, 2025 by Katrina Longpre

I feel like everybody goes through different sorts of changes in their life. Everybody has different milestones, but I think a lot of people in college or post-secondary education can relate to this experience of changing their mind about their path. As simple as it sounds, it can become the beginning of a new chapter, a new journey—one that you may never have realized you needed. Those moments in life can be transformative, even though they might feel overwhelming or scary at the time.

For me, right after graduating from high school, I knew I wasn’t going to jump into post-secondary right away. I had decided to take some time off to travel first, and then I planned to start post-secondary during the spring/winter term. At the time, I felt good about my decision. It gave me a chance to see the world, explore new experiences, and think about what I wanted to do.

When I finally started post-secondary, I was enrolled at Langara in the Health Sciences program. From the start, I thought this was the right choice for me. My mom had always wanted one of her girls to pursue a career in health sciences. It had been a dream of hers for as long as I could remember, and my sister had already walked away from that dream. I felt like it was my turn to step up and try to fulfill it. I had good grades, I was motivated, and I truly believed I was ready for that challenge.

At first, I tried to convince myself that becoming a travel nurse was the career for me. It seemed like a stable job with good pay, and it was a field that society generally respects. On paper, it sounded like everything I could want in a career. But as the semester progressed, I realized something important: I wasn’t passionate about what I was learning.

The truth hit me like a ton of bricks. I felt like I was taking up someone else’s spot in the program—someone who might have actually wanted to be there. Every class felt like a struggle. I lacked motivation and excitement that should’ve been a part of my learning. I found myself in a deep, depressive state that I wouldn’t wish on anyone. It was the first time in my life that I truly felt incredibly lost.

I was failing my classes—not because I wasn’t trying, but because I couldn’t grasp the material. I spent countless nights studying until 3 or 4 a.m., crying over textbooks and lecture notes, only to walk into exams knowing I was gonna fail. The concepts just didn’t stick, no matter how hard I tried.

The only class I felt confident in was English. It was an academic writing course, and I knew get at least a B. But my other classes were a nightmare. Statistics, was like torture. I’ve never been good at math, so the material completely consumed me. While I had done okay in high school biology, the memorization required in a college-level course was on a whole new level. It was just too much for me to handle.

Adding to my struggles was the long commute to campus. Some people wake up incredibly early and travel long distances to get to schools like UBC or SFU, and I admire them for that. But for me, the commute to Langara felt like a chore. The only bliss I felt in it where cold quite mornings on the bus to school when I would sit on a single seater with headphones in wistfully looking out the window.

The only thing I genuinely liked about Langara was studying in the T-building. There was something peaceful about that space, and it became a small comfort in a difficult time. My daily routine, however, was far from ideal. I would buy Starbucks every morning—breaking my bank in the process—head to class, and then go to a job I hated. My days were repetitive, and I felt stuck in a cycle of unhappiness.

Socially, I wasn’t doing much better. I had little to no interaction with others, and I felt isolated. Looking back, that period of my life was one of the hardest I’ve ever experienced.

If you have an Asian mom, you’ll understand what I’m about to say. My mom had always been a driving force in my academic life. Her expectations were high, and I often felt like I was living her dream rather than my own at the time.

One day, as I was scrolling through my computer, I stumbled across the Radio Arts and Entertainment program. at BCIT. It felt like fate. I clicked on the program description, read through the courses and job opportunities, and instantly had a lightbulb moment. For the first time in a long time, I saw a potential future that aligned with my passions and interests.

I’ve always been a huge sports fan, and the idea of working in sports journalism felt like a dream. Beyond sports, I’ve also had a long-standing passion in fashion and marketing. I would say I’m a social person who enjoys yapping with others, but I’m also quite introverted, which helps me stay grounded. The Radio Arts and Entertainment program seemed like the perfect fit for my personality and goals.

By March , I had made up my mind to apply. When I told my mom about my decision, her reaction was intense. She looked at me as though I had just dropped a bombshell. I could see the disappointment in her eyes, and for a moment, I questioned whether I was making the right choice.

It wasn’t an easy conversation. I explained to her that I wasn’t happy in Health Sciences and that continuing it just wasn’t an option for me. I told her that I needed to follow a career that aligned with my passions and interests, even if it wasn’t what she had envisioned for me.

Eventually, she came around. My dad, on the other hand, was supportive from the start. He told me he could see how unhappy I was and that he was proud of me for making the decision to change paths early on.

At 18 years old, I made one of the most important decisions of my life. I applied for the Radio Arts and Entertainment program at BCIT, and by April, I received my acceptance letter. I was so happy and relieved. My dad was the first person I called, and he was so happy for me. Then I told my mom and sister, and they were thrilled too. It felt like a fresh start—a new beginning.

Now, nearly two years into the program, I can confidently say that I made the right choice. The past couple of years have been some of the most rewarding and fulfilling of my life. I’ve met incredible people, gained valuable skills, and had amazing opportunities that I never would have experienced if I hadn’t taken that leap of faith.

I’m excited to build a career in marketing or PR. Over time, my new developed a passion for social media marketing and public relations has also aided in this career change. I find social media research incredibly intriguing.

I know the job market is competitive, but I believe that with hard work and determination, anything is possible. Every change I’ve made in my life has led me to where I am now, and I wouldn’t change a thing.

Little 18-year-old me made a brave decision, and it was the right one. I know this is where I’m meant to be. My future feels bright, and I’m ready to take on new challenges, so stay positive, and keep growing.

Losing Someone Who’s Not Gone

Posted on January 18, 2025 by Katrina Longpre

I feel like sometimes it doesn’t get talked about enough, but going through a friendship breakup is really something. It’s different than going through a relationship breakup. Now, mind you, I’m coming from a perspective that has never gone through a romantic relationship breakup, but I have gone through many, many, many friendship breakups. The feeling is genuinely sometimes unbearable, but you always come through on the other side. And we’re just going to talk about it today and get into it. If you find any comfort in this article, I really, really hope you do.

My friend of many, many years and I just weren’t clicking anymore. I definitely felt it. I don’t know how she felt; I can’t speak on her behalf. But from my point of view, we were just different people, and I think we were OK with that. There was nothing wrong with it—at least, that’s what I thought. But overall, our friendship came to an end because of a misunderstanding, and it just came at such a fast pace. It felt like a fastball hitting me at over 90 mph, straight into my gut. It hurt so much because I was so shocked at how one person could just pack up and go so fast.

I was talking to my sister about this, and it’s always good to have somebody to talk to about this kind of stuff. Thankfully, I have my older sister, and she’s gone through the exact same situation I have. She said, “Maybe, on your end, you didn’t think that something was going on, but maybe this was the final thing to let you go.” Again, I cannot speak to how the other person was feeling, but I thought that was really something to consider. It’s true: you never know how someone else is feeling unless you ask, unless you talk about it. And we didn’t really communicate. There was a big lack of communication in our friendship and underlying issues that just weren’t brought to light. They were really suppressed, so that’s where we kind of came crumbling down. We had been friends for years. We even traveled together. But the switch-up was just insane for me, and I wasn’t expecting it at all. I thought that we would eventually figure things out and work it out.

Now, after a couple of months, I am OK with not having to see this person again. It was one of the worst feelings I’ve ever gone through in my life and one of the worst weeks I’ve ever had. Losing her felt like a death—genuinely, like I lost somebody. All of a sudden, overnight, she just wasn’t in my life anymore. And it was really, really hard. Even thinking about it now, it still pains me that I went through this because I’ll never understand how it was so easy for her to dispose of me. But the best thing about what happened was that I did not go through it alone. I had my solitude moments where I would cry myself to sleep. My mind would be in so many different places, always asking, “What did I do? What did I do wrong?” But after all of that, I came to some realizations. I had to stop apologizing for things that were out of my control.

Looking back at our friendship, I noticed that I was always apologizing for things that weren’t my fault. I thought if I kept apologizing, we’d still be friends and everything would be OK if it was her way. But then I became friends with people who don’t think that way and don’t make me feel that way. They reminded me that I shouldn’t apologize for things that aren’t my fault. That friendship wasn’t good for me. It wasn’t good for the people around me, and I had to start thinking clearly. My best friends—my true best friends—were there for me in this situation, and I’m utterly grateful for them. Around that time, I also had my boyfriend to help me out. He was a gem and helped me through it as well.

Three people in particular really helped me get through it: my two best friends Savanah and Johnny and my older sister. They were there for me, and they showed me—along with my other wonderful friend groups, showed me what a true friendship should be. They gave me the strength and comfort to know that it was OK for me to walk away from that situation and not look back. That’s one of my biggest pieces of advice: If someone is treating you a certain way, it’s OK to leave. And I just refused to listening to myself for years. All of my friends noticed it, too. Finally, I stood my ground and thought, “Nope, I don’t have to take this anymore. I can leave. I have to get out of this situation.” And i’ve been better off ever since.

I’m not saying I don’t miss her. I wish her all the best in this world. I genuinely wish her nothing but success. She is one of the funniest, most ambitious, and overall greatest people I’ve ever known. But some people aren’t meant to be in your life forever, and that’s OK. I don’t know where she is now or what’s going on with her. All I know is that I hope she is doing we;;. The memories we shared together were some of the most amazing ones, and I’ll always keep them. We had a great friendship, and the happy moments will stay with me. But like I said, some people aren’t meant to be in your life forever, and that’s OK. Sometimes you just have to learn to let it go when it is not serving you anymore.

If you are going through a friendship breakup or thinking about letting somebody go, find the strength to do it. Genuinely. Pay attention to the people who make time for you, care about you, and put you first. Make sure they genuinely care about you. You’ll know it and you’ll feel it if they do. You won’t ever have to second-guess it or micromanage it. Friendship is a very simple thing, but the complexity it can obtain is insane.

Getting Into My First Relationship

Posted on January 18, 2025 by Katrina Longpre

Summer 2024 was probably one of the best summers I have ever experienced in my life. I got into my first relationship, and I’ve never been happier—genuinely. Now, we haven’t been together very long, but he is an incredible person, and I just wanted to share my story, how I’ve been feeling, and how it all came together.

Backstory:

A bit of backstory: I never dated anybody in high school. I would have situationships with people, but nothing progressed to the title of boyfriend and girlfriend. It never really got to that point. I just deemed myself as a person who thought, “Oh, commitment? Scary. Why do we need to do that?” I didn’t want to be tied down. I figured I’d stay single forever. My plan was to focus on my career after high school, dive straight into school, and stay on track kind of having incredible tunnel vision. I didn’t want any distractions, especially not boys. I was one of the number one boy-haters. If you’re a girl, you get it. And I did accomplish a whole lot before we got together I got my licence, traveled, became a lifeguard, and even started at BCIT I was already creating my own little story enjoying my solitude.

I had a clear path for myself, but I also had avoidant attachment issues. Genuinely, I would flinch every time someone got close. I would run away every time someone tried to get close. I had a lot of issues with being vulnerable with people romantically. I let down a couple of people because I think I led them on, letting them believe I liked them when I really didn’t. It became a continuous pattern I knew I had to stop and fix.

The Saturday Shift:

Spring of 2024 came around, and I started working every Saturday morning at this pool. This boy was also working Saturday mornings, but I didn’t notice him until my second shift. My first shift? Pretty sure I was hungover. When I came into work, one of my best friends said, “Hey, have you noticed this boy?” I hadn’t, so I took a look at him, and he was so cute—head-to-toe my type. I was hooked. From that moment, I was like, “Oh my God, this guy is so cute! I don’t know what to do with myself.”

Tying this back to my avoidant attachment issues: I’ve had a lot of crushes—too many. I’d have a new work crush every week. It was bad. But this time was different. Even my coworkers noticed. They were like, “Oh, you really like this one” And I sure did. However, there was an issue. We genuinely thought he had a girlfriend, so there was a bit of uncertainty and worry. Too a point where we asked everybody but him and the funniest part about this story is that my best friend went to the same high school as he did so imagine the reaction I got out of her when I told her about my work crush.

Now, the lesson sets we worked were really, really long—up to two months—because we only worked one day a week, plus spaced out by holidays. I saw this guy every Saturday, but I was way too nervous to talk to him. Side note it was genuinely the only day of the week that got me hyped up for work, and I work a lot. And I’m a confident person! I can talk to almost anyone and get along with everyone. But I couldn’t muster the courage to talk to him. Every time we were in the same room, I was silent. He was very shy, too. He was always on his phone, head down, only talking to his best friend at work. That best friend was his childhood buddy, so they clung to each other. It was hard to break into their little bubble.

I went to BCIT with his best friend, so I thought, “Let me talk to him first. Maybe he’ll mention me.” That was my first interaction strategy. Finally, my friends encouraged me to talk to him, saying, “Just do it! It’s not that hard!” So I did. I went up to him while I was guarding, and he was in the hot tub. He looked dazed, like he was about to pass out. I asked him if he was okay, and that was our first interaction. Three words. When I got back to the guard room, I was shaking. But my friends were proud because three words were better than none.

A few months later, I’d had a couple of conversations with him at work. I’d overhyped him a bit, so I had to bring him down to earth in my mind. Here’s some advice: Don’t put people on pedestals. No matter how amazing someone seems, remember you’re just as incredible. It doesn’t help to idolize them because you might be let down if they’re not who you imagined. Now, I love my boyfriend—he’s amazing—but treating him as my equal it something very important to me.

The nBA Finals and More:

A couple of months later, I knew he was a basketball fan. I’m more of a hockey girl, but I liked basketball enough to a point where I was actually paying attention to the Finals. I used the NBA Finals as an excuse to DM him. Despite barely talking to him at work, I went for it. We started texting, and long story short, he asked me out. We went on a couple of dates, worked together in the summer, and on July 13th, 2024, I became his girlfriend. Ever since then, it’s been amazing. We’ve had our rough times, as all relationships do, but he’s taught me so much about myself.

My friends have noticed a change in me. I’m lighter, more grounded. He’s one of the most secure people I’ve ever met, and he makes me feel incredibly secure, too. We haven’t been together long, but I can’t wait to see what our story holds. He makes me feel so loved and uplifts me in ways I can’t describe.

We have our pet peeves about each other, as every couple does. Without those troubles, relationships would be boring. I’ve learned so much, like how to balance friendships with a relationship. As someone who had intimacy and commitment issues, it’s been a learning experience. I’m independent and stubborn, but I’m grateful for someone who keeps me calm and grounded, checks in on me, and even checks me when I’m wrong. I do the same for him.

I believe in being whole before entering a relationship. Not two halves making a whole, but two wholes creating something even greater. That’s what 2024 has taught me. If you’ve experienced something similar, I hope you can relate. Trust me, all my friends were shocked when I became a girlfriend. It was a mic drop moment for sure.

How to Run a Girls’ Night

Posted on January 18, 2025 by Katrina Longpre

First Step: Gather Your Group

Start by calling up your girls and setting a date. A key factor in this process is to give out multiple dates. Having options is always good because everyone has different schedules, and coordinating can be tricky. Using apps like Instagram’s poll feature is a fantastic way to make it interactive and convenient for everyone to vote on the dates through a group chat. You can also use messaging apps like WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger to discuss and finalize plans. Communication is key to ensuring everyone feels included.

Depending on the season or upcoming holidays, you can choose a fun theme to make the event even more exciting. For instance, with Valentine’s Day approaching, you can host a Galentine’s Day celebration. Whether you’re single, taken, or in a situationship, everyone deserves a little love on this day. In spring, you might try a floral tea party; in the summer, a beach day or picnic could be perfect. The possibilities are endless when planning a memorable girls’ night. Consider cozy themes like pumpkin carving or a Halloween costume party for fall. Winter nights could feature hot cocoa bars and holiday movie marathons.

Plan Your Theme and Assemble a Team

Once the date is set and everyone agrees, the next step is forming a team. While some prefer hosting alone, having a few helpers (around three) can make things smoother. Breaking up tasks ensures you’re not overwhelmed and allows others to contribute their ideas and skills. It is always nice when your friends offer to help; then, you can breathe a bit. A great way to share responsibilities is by organizing a potluck. Ask or put out an idea for each guest to bring a treat on theme or their favourite dish—drinks, whether non-alcoholic or alcoholic, are a must. Depending on the vibe you’re aiming for, you can curate the drink menu to match the theme.

Pick or give out specific roles to your friends. For example:

One person can handle decorations, ensuring they’re on theme and cute for the event.
Another can manage food and snacks, whether preparing or purchasing them.
Someone else can coordinate the outfits or a dress code to tie everything together. You could suggest guests wear pink, red, or other romantic colors for a Valentine’s Day party.

Consider assigning someone to create a playlist or manage the music for the night. Music can set the tone for the event, whether upbeat tracks for dancing or mellow tunes for a relaxed vibe.

Prep the Party

Finally, the big day arrives, and it’s time to prepare for the party. To keep everyone engaged, consider planning games or activities. For example, my friend recently hosted a girls’ night with a Kahoot! Quiz, which turned out to be a hilarious and entertaining way to get everyone involved. Activities don’t have to be overly complicated or continuous. The goal is to create moments that bring everyone together, even if it’s just one shared activity.

Crafts and games are also excellent for bringing the room together. Simple ideas like painting, creating personalized trinkets, or even organizing a small trivia game can work wonders. If you’re planning crafts, make sure you have all the supplies ready, so it’s easy for everyone to participate. Setting up a photo booth with props is another fun activity that can double as a memory-maker.

Another way to make the night special is by capturing memories. Bring along disposable cameras, Polaroids, or even digital cameras to take photos throughout the event. Having physical copies of these memories, whether they’re candid or posed, adds a sentimental touch that everyone will appreciate. You could even create a shared online album afterward for everyone to contribute their pictures.

As the host, don’t forget to enjoy the party yourself. It’s easy to get caught up in ensuring everyone else is having a good time, but you’re part of the celebration too! Remember to eat the food, take part in the activities, and make memories with your friends. You’ve worked hard to create this special night, so take a moment to soak it all in.

More Than Just a Girls’ Night

A girls’ night doesn’t always have to be a big event. Sometimes, it’s as simple as inviting a few close friends over to watch a movie, cook, or bake together. While this article focused on hosting larger gatherings, it’s important to find comfort in the beauty of smaller, more intimate moments too. These quieter nights can be just as meaningful and impactful.

The aftereffect is one of the most remarkable aspects of a girls’ night. These events often leave you feeling recharged and grateful. Being surrounded by people who genuinely care about you and share the intention of having a good time together is incredibly uplifting. There’s a unique sense of warmth and coziness that lingers long after the night is over.

I always leave a girls’ night with a deep sense of gratitude. People coming together to celebrate friendship is truly magical. It’s hard to describe the euphoria you feel after spending an evening with like-minded people who empower and support you. It’s a different kind of fulfillment than you might experience in other relationships, but it’s just as essential. The love and support exchanged during these gatherings create bonds that last a lifetime.

If you’re considering hosting a girls’ night, I wholeheartedly encourage you to go for it. It’s an experience that’s not only enjoyable but also deeply enriching. And if you’re not part of a girls’ night demographic, don’t worry – you can still take inspiration from this article. The basics of planning, togetherness, and making memories are universal. Friendship, after all, is a gift worth celebrating in any given form, and it gives you a reason to party! In a wholesome way, of course.

Warriors Weekends: Energy, Redemption, and Unforgettable Moments

Posted on January 15, 2025 by Katrina Longpre

This past Friday, the Vancouver Warriors Rocked Rogers Arena with their annual Country Night with a vibrant live band performance from Antonio Larosa Band, who kicked up the energy throughout the game. This game was one you did not want to miss. Now Vancouver has a incredible in crowd dynamics, and the players felt it and showed up throughout their game. The first three quarters were a bit slower, but regardless, our Warriors kept a tight match Against the San Diego Seals, our West Coast rivals. But even before the game, many stakes were going into it. To give a brief background, Last Season, the Vancouver Warriors lost to the San Diego Seals to secure a spot in the playoffs after fighting back to contention. This was a redemption match-up for sure, in which both teams had a point to prove. The Warriors are 3 and 1 in the NLL standings currently. Furthermore, I’ll write about some key highlights that this game had to offer that reminded me of how amazing it is to be a Weekend Warrior.

Keegan Bal: Star of the Night

Star Player Keegan Bal was absolutely on fire with 6 points scored throughout the game, sending the Arena into a frenzy during the 4th quarter of this game. He’s a significant asset to this talented group and watching him play is something you should not miss. His strive and truculence that he brings into the box are incredible. Fans were getting a bit rigged in their seats regarding halftime, desiring the unknown of whether the Warriors would produce a win. Bal briefly shares Coach Curt’s message for them (3-2): “Just continue… continue on the process, don’t change the way we play”. Bal also shared that San Diego had a week off, so the teams’ endurances were on different ends, and the Warriors had to keep their head up and continue with their undeniable diligence. Bal further commented on the opportunity of redemption within this game, expressing, “We just wanted to win, every game we just want to win,” As simple as it sounds, it’s true. If you were a viewer of that game, you could see the continuous drive and effort from the team. Bal gave some love to their young goalie, who also came through in the final minutes of this game.

Aden Walsh: Rising to the Occasion

Young Goalie Aden Walsh was in the starting lineup for Fridays match and with a couple of slip up goals his performance was a must see in the Warriors times of need during the 4th quarter. Walsh gave some major props to team leader Bal commenting on his performance of the night “I was blown away on the other end of the floor there… even when he has a slow start like that, we know he’s gonna pick it up just like he did tonight.”. Walsh was also asked as being a younger player in this league whether he’s feeling the pressure and here’s what he had to say about that, “No… each game comes with more experience you get more comfortable out there so it’s definitely easier [as] each game goes on… definitely feeling more confident”. This is such a common question that is in young players ears constantly whether you’re in the NBA, the NFL or majorly the NHL around here. And as a young sports viewer/fan the proof is in the pudding throughout last season entering this one Walsh’s performance has only gotten better and better and I hope we get to see him continue moving up. And speaking of shining moments when the Warriors needed it the most in the last minutes of the game, he makes a beautiful save to shut that door on San Diego and the crowd went buck wild if were keeping it country themed. It’s moments like those that really bring a team and crowd together wrapping us all into one. Overall Walsh’s continuous efforts in pushing this team forward has been great to watch and something you would enjoy seeing as well.

Coach Curt: Building Resilience and Belief

Furthermore, not only is he a leader on the floor but off it. We got to chat with Coach Curt after the game and he touched on the team’s resilience throughout the game. With the warriors outstanding come back in the game Coach says, “sports is 90% mental and i think that’s a big part for us is mentally [they] where strong”. Which was really on the nose on how this game went through truly. The fight those players had on Friday was something truly special. He was even asked about the upcoming weekends they have ahead of them, and he touched on how this game will help them forward into the next “It’ll be a battle, but it puts us in a good position… we learned a lot of good lessons we can take away into the next.” And something that really stuck out to be the phrase “belief” it’s a term I’ve heard a lot going to these games and being a part of the post games and Coach Curt dove into the meaning of it and how it’s present in the locker room. “It’s high…the guys believe in each other…when you see results and you get tangible results from things you talk about the belief becomes even more…the biggest thing is believing in each other”. The amount of admiration that as a fan you can have for that is incredible because it really gives you a sense that this team is just more than face value but there’s a community within and an incredible dynamic between each player. And how all of that comes together to make one really makes this hometown team shine among the rest. Being led by an admirable coach as well ties everything together as well and so it was great to come back and hear what Coach had to say after that victory.

The Weekend Warrior Experience

Being part of a Warriors game is more than just watching lacrosse—it’s an experience. The vibrant atmosphere of Rogers Arena, amplified by the themed night and the crowd’s enthusiasm, creates a sense of community. From fans donning Western gear to kids proudly holding their posters, every detail contributes to the magic.

This sense of connection is why becoming a “Weekend Warrior” is so special. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or a newcomer to the sport, attending a Warriors game offers something for everyone. The energy, the camaraderie, and the thrill of watching a team give their all make it a must-see event.

Final Thoughts

The Vancouver Warriors’ Country Night was a testament to the team’s resilience, skill, and the incredible support of their fans. From Keegan Bal’s standout performance to Aden Walsh’s game-saving heroics and Coach Curt’s inspiring leadership, every element came together to create an unforgettable evening.

So, whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking for a fun night out, consider joining the Warriors at Rogers Arena. You’ll not only witness top-tier lacrosse but also become part of a community that celebrates the spirit of competition and camaraderie. Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic of Warriors weekends—it’s more than a game; it’s a celebration.

The Rise of Formula One

Posted on October 20, 2024 by Katrina Longpre

In the last few years, F1 has experienced a rise in popularity from niche motorsport to a global phenomenon. There are various reasons for this, from the kind of audience the sport currently caters to to its nature.

Rising Accessibility of F1 through Social Media and TV

However, digital media is the most influential driver of interest in F1. With the recent introduction of streaming services like F1 TV and platforms partnered with sports like Netflix, races have never been more accessible. This Netflix series, “Drive to Survive,” covers most of the behind-the-scenes drama and personal stories of the drivers and further appeals to people who might not usually be interested in the sport. Because of this access, it has really helped connect fans with the sport, especially female fans.

Diverse and Charismatic Drivers

On the other hand, the team of racers in F1 today is not the last factor in its popularity. Sports people such as Lewis Hamilton, Charles Leclerc, and Lando Norris have turned out to be excellent, but with regards to the stars of sports celebrated in the past, however, at the same time, they are some sort of cultural figures. Hamilton continuously uses his platform to promote diversity and social justice, issues that align closely with the soul of the new generation of fans. In addition, there are the personalities and stories behind these drivers. Even casual viewers can quickly become fans as they get anxious about any ups and downs these persons encounter on and off the track.

Thrilling Racing Action and Competitive Seasons

Competition, too, has played a role in drawing the popularity of Formula One over the years. Especially during the 2021 season between Hamilton and Verstappen, it drew massive interest in the hearts of motorsport enthusiasts and the general public. And even now, the battle between Verstappen and Norris is in this year’s season. The thrill in the races, unexpected twists, and closely fought championships have kept audiences on tenterhooks as their own community waits on the next race in anticipation.

Expansion of Races into the World

The strategic expansion of F1 into new markets, including races in the Middle East, Asia, and the United States, has grown its fan base. Events like the Miami Grand Prix and the upcoming Las Vegas Grand Prix have tapped into new audiences, further cementing F1’s global presence. A commitment to sustainability and innovation, such as its goal to be carbon neutral by 2030, also resonates with the socially conscious audience.

Overall, F1’s popularity continues to grow, with each season being different. This year’s season has brought much attention to the diverse race winners. Competition is back in the sport, and all the fans, old or new, are excited to see how this season of 2024 will end.

Between Two Cultures: The Downfalls on Not Knowing

Posted on October 20, 2024 by Katrina Longpre

How many languages can you speak? I can only speak one, and part of me will always be a little upset because I never learned my mom’s language. I mean, I would say it’s 50/50. I can’t blame myself fully for it, but I also have to take accountability for not putting in the effort to learn.

My mom speaks Tagalog, and she tried to teach my sister and me and didn’t forget to remind us that we didn’t want to learn, which is untrue. I wished she had been stricter about it growing up, but it was a challenge when we took our trips to the Philippines, especially in my older years. You feel isolated when you can’t understand what your family is trying to say to you.

However, it’s similar to when you go to another country, and you can’t speak, for example, Italian, but there is a sense of hurt pride when it’s your actual culture.
Especially when you are hit with comments about why you didn’t learn or did not care to learn to speak Tagalog, as if it was all my fault. My mom had tried; she did, but the people I was surrounded by mainly spoke English and occasionally Spanish. With all these different languages coming at me at once, English is common ground in all the chaos. My eagerness to learn my mom’s language grows as I get older. It’s now up to me to commit because I feel it brings me closer to that side of myself and my life.

I have felt a heavy disconnection from my Filipino side, especially now that I am entering my twenties. I want to explore and embrace that side of life. One thing I will give myself props more for is that I can only slightly pick up what my mom is telling me when she goes on her Tagalog rants, especially when I haven’t done my chores. That’s when the words become crystal clear.

All in all, if you could be fluent in any language, which one would it be? Mine would definitely be a mix of Spanish and Tagalog. I hope to pursue learning either language in the future, as it will bring me closer to my roots.

Between Two Cultures: Filipino Functions and Summer Softball

Posted on October 20, 2024 by Katrina Longpre

You will always find a karaoke machine at a Filipino Function, and you will find a beer garden at a Slopitch game. My upbringing consisted of both, and I carry both aspects from each experience in my life now.

Now, what is a Filipino Function? A Filipino function could be anything; usually, you are celebrating someone’s birthday or hosting a barbecue for fun. You know the function will be a good time when you take a peak at the table and see it full of aluminum containers filled with food. You look to the other side of the room, and you see a boxing match on which all your uncles are howling at the TV and, to your left, your mom and Titas are singing Lea Salonga on the Karaoke machine. And remember when your lola and titas constantly bombard you with questions about why you don’t have a boyfriend or girlfriend yet? That is a true Filipino function, and by the end of it, you will be going home with two plates sandwiched together cause you’re taking home the leftovers for sure.

But this differs significantly from a summer evening at the ballpark this year. I took many of my friends to my dad’s senior league softball games, and it is safe to say they are not the same, yet oddly reflective of one another. Picture this: it’s a lovely summer evening. You arrive at the dusty ballpark, and you waft in the stench of cigarettes, weed, beer, and dust. Rock n Roll music blasts from the Beer Garden, and you sit on the bleachers. You’re cheering your dad’s team on and having fun conversations with your uncles, who are not your uncles, but they basically are. You feel all the highs and lows of the game, but whether the team came out with a win or not, it’s a fun experience.

It’s really the best of both worlds. I share a deep connection with both experiences, and I try to embrace how different they are. However, I am in need of a Filipino function; it has been a minute since I have been to one. In short, living between the two will only continuously create more memories for me, and if you can relate, it’s really a niche experience.

Between Two Cultures: Clashing Cuisines

Posted on October 20, 2024 by Katrina Longpre

Growing up between two cultures has been a rollercoaster ride that I have yet to get off of. There are so many different categories I could get into, but alas, we’ll save that for another time. In this article, I’ll focus on the food aspects of being mixed, but before that, I’ll give you a bit of backstory.

I was born to a white dad and a Filipino mom. My mom didn’t grow up in Vancouver; she immigrated to Canada all by herself and built a life for herself before she met my dad. Fast-forward to when they had my sister and me, and between the two of us, we share quite a lot of memories of staple dishes we are used to seeing in our household.

The unpredictability is so fun, and being of two different cultures, you never know if your mom is going to cook up a sinigang with rice on the side or pork chops and mashed potatoes, but you know either one is going to taste incredible. When I would have conversations with my friends who are an entire ethnicity, their dining menus were always so different from one another, and that’s what makes me so giddy that culture creates such different stories and upbringings because no two people are the same. However, you can find similar stories with other mixed kids, and it’s so fun to see that they also had the same experiences as me.

Moreover, the recipes that are passed down to you are also incredibly varied. Personally, I have acquired the skill of making amazing lumpia ( a Filipino spring roll), but I can also cook up some great burgers on the grill. But those skills derive from my parents. There are some things my mom can teach me that my dad can’t, and vice versa. It’s such an incredible experience if you think about it.

Additionally, there are some ups and downs where the household cravings clash; I have noticed that white dads have mixed feelings about seafood. They either love it and are ok with it or are disgusted by it. My dad is on the disgusted side of things. He can’t stand seafood, but when my sister, mom, and I crave seafood, we always have to consider my dad’s preferences when we cook or go out to eat, but we always find common ground.

Overall, growing up mixed is an experience, and this only scratches the surface of the different aspects of being a mixed kid.

Garrett Chong’s Call to Change

Posted on October 20, 2024 by Katrina Longpre

Garrett Chong’s exhibition, “Eroded Origins: Liminal Illusions Amidst Climatic Transformations,” is centrally concerned with environmental change and transformation and how these processes affect our perceptions of reality at Place des Arts. This is exhibition invites visitors into deep engagement with the themes of nature, transformation, and the balance between human activity and the environment.

The work of Chong has become an statement on the crisis at large regarding climate change-wild landscapes that continue to alter and decay both due to climate change and human ignorance. He reflects on the changing identities of those topographies and the memories held by them through his art. Chong presents environmental degradation, inviting reflection on people’s relationship with nature and the effects caused by that relationship.

The exhibition presents a diverse practice of art media, from painting and sculpture to multimedia installation. Chong’s innovative take merges traditional methods with contemporary modern practices in visually and intellectually challenging pieces. Each invites guest to look closely for the details that speak to the complex interplay between the natural world and human influence.

The theme that exudes in “Eroded Origins” connects with the concept of liminality-a state of transition, even literally, between states. Abstractness and uncertainty are embodied in his pieces, similar to today’s constantly changing world. From this vantage point, liminal spaces can be seen to showcase tension from the past into the present, asking for the consideration of the possibilities that could be in the future.

Chong’s work really opens up a discourse on today’s burning issues: climate change and environmental sustainability. Visitors will leave with a lot more reflection about their role in improving and mitigating environmental impacts. This therefore makes the exhibition a source of community and shared responsibility, so very relevant today.
An Immersive Experience

To visit “Eroded Origins” is to do much more than look at an art installation; the viewer is put into an immersive world that challenges them to confront very sad truths of the environment. The ease with which Chong brought aesthetics and critical commentary makes this exhibition a powerful exploration of contemporary issues.

Overall, “Eroded Origins: Liminal Illusions Amidst Climatic Transformations” by Garrett Chong had been an intellectually challenging exhibition that inspires people to reflect more profoundly on the relationships between human beings and nature. Take the opportunity to engage in this impactful work here at Place des Arts!

This Exhibit will run till October 23rd.

Evolution 107.9

Altering Radio

Author Archives: Katrina Longpre

Creating Your Own Path

Losing Someone Who’s Not Gone