Issue 13, Vol 144, The Brunswickan

news // university rankings >> unb in the middle of the pack; pg. 3 Volume 144 · Issue 13 • December 1, 2010

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brunswickan canada’s oldest official student publication.

Late prof will be sorely missed

Women’s basketball first place in the AUS

Hilary Paige Smith News Editor The University of New Brunswick lost “one of our best” late last month.

Dr. Santosh N. Kabadi, a professor in the Business Administration faculty, died in a drowning accident in India close to two weeks ago. The sad news only reached campus late last week and few details are known about the incident.

Kabadi joined the UNB faculty in 1985 teaching in the area of Quantitative Methods. He was on a six-month sabbatical at the time of his death and was expected to return to the classroom in January.

Daniel Coleman, dean of Business Administration, had only high praise for the late professor.

“He was probably, objectively, our very best faculty member. We banter around the words frequently, but he really was an internationally recognized researcher in Quantitative Methods,” he said.

“He was also a very dedicated teacher.”

Coleman said Kabadi frequently put in extra time for his students, often extending his office hours to offer help.

Kabadi won a number of teaching awards throughout his time at UNB, including a UNB Merit Award and a MBA Society’s Professor Recognition Award in 2002. He also received the Faculty of Business Administration’s Excellence in Research Award in 2001 and 2006.

“He was a helluva nice guy too. Always polite, always professional, always smiling…

He was very spiritual.”

Kabadi worked for UNB for more than 25 years and the dean noted the care that the late professor took to help new faculty members settle in. “(He was) very caring, a great colleague to those who were in his research areas.

From the students, the biggest thing I’ve heard over the last few days was the commentary about how he bent over backwards and did as much as he could to make sure the students really understood the material.”

Dr. Eddy Campbell, president ofUNB, offered his condolences to friends, colleagues and students of Kabadi.

“It was a great surprise and we’re all very shocked and saddened… It’s a huge shock for everybody in the university community, in particular for the students and staff and faculty of Business Administration,” he said.

“He’ll be greatly missed. He was one of our best.”

Varsity Reds Amanda Sharpe (left) and Tamara Tompkins (right) take on the Dalhousie Tigers in women’s basketball action at home over the weekend. UNB dropped Dal 97-49, following it up with a 93-77 win over Acadia to go into the break at 2-3-1. Andrew Meade/ The Brunswickan Sean O’Neill Staff Writer The Varsity Reds women’s basketball head coach Jeff Speedy believes that the AUS is seven-deep this year.

That being said they have only suffered one loss and in the last two games his team beat two of these seven teams, Dalhousie and Acadia by 48 and 16 respectively and dropped 90-plus points on each to improve to a conference best 5-1.

“To come into this gym you better be ready to put the ball in the basket because it’s going to take a lot to beat us here,” said Speedy.

Less than two-and-a-half minutes into the game against the Tigers, the Reds were up 13-0, drilled three three-pointers and forced three turnovers. After one quarter UNB was up 37-7, forced 11 turnovers and made five of six three-pointers.

The V-Reds kept things rolling as they went on to a 97-49 victory over the Tigers.

“I think we really shocked them with our outside shooting and they took off their zone which has kind of been their bread and butter on defence and then we just got rolling,” said Speedy after the game.

Rookie Claire Colborne continued to score in bunches as she had 22 points, four assists and four rebounds and Amanda Sharpe dominated in the post as she led the team with 29 points on 57.9% shooting, 11 rebounds, three steals and two blocks against Dalhousie.

“My team did such a good job of getting me the ball whenever I was open as soon as I was open,” said Sharpe. “It just made my moves easier to do because they got me the ball so quickly.”

The Reds kept up the scoring spree the next night against the Axewomen. UNB started the game on a 19-5 run and led 34-19 after the first.

The team scored on fast breaks, in the post and from beyond the arc, and took

a 56-36 lead to the locker room at half.

The lead got as low as seven for UNB, but in the fourth quarter, Sharpe positioned herself on the post and as she got the ball Colborne’s woman doubled the post and she quickly passed to the open Colborne for the three and AUS leading scorer made no mistake. Acadia turned the ball over the next possession which lead to another basket and the result was sealed.

UNB walked away with their fourth straight win, 93-77 over the Axewomen.

“I thought we took Acadia’s run today and dealt with it really well and kept our composure and extended our lead,” said Speedy. “I’m really happy with that and obviously really happy with the record.”

“But I thought we really improved on a big area of weakness and that is taking that punch and staggering.”

“Definitely happy with the offence,” said guard Megan Corby. “We tried to play a fast-pace game, we push the ball. We

know other teams aren’t going to be able to keep up with us, we train that hard.”

With no league games until after the New Year, the Varsity Reds go into the break in first place in the AUS. Speedy is happy with where the team is but is still looking at the big picture.

“It was a fairly easy part of our schedule,” said Speedy. “We had four home games, our only road games was against a team that didn’t win a game last year (UPEI) so it was a fairly easy part of our schedule so to speak.”

Even with great back-to-back offensive outputs, Speedy still prefers to have the break now than have this streak continue.

“We’re ready for a break for sure. We actually started late August because we played those two games against Maine at the end of August. We’ve been going for a long time. It’ll be nice to have a break and not beat each other up for a couple of hours a day. It’s a long season so we’ll recharge and be ready to go in the New Year.”

brunswickannews

2 • Dec. 1, 2010 • Issue 13 • Volume 144

Water, water everywhere and UNB conserved a lot Alex Kress News Reporter The water conservation challenge amongst UNB residences will come to a close this week and one lucky house will win a flat-screen television.

The competition, which started on Oct. 25 and ends Nov. 29, is a five-week challenge to conserve the amount of water and make more students conscious about personal water use.

Facilities Management has been giving the student group readings once every Monday. Readings have been generally decreasing, but increased this week due to the change in weather when people take longer, hotter showers and use more heat.

Last week Harrison House was in the lead. The average amount per capita measured in cubic metres weekly is as follows: Week 1 – 2.31, Week 2 – 2.46, Week 3 – 2.40, Week 4 – 2.12, Week 5 – 2.51.

The challenge was a project of students from a Renaissance College water sustainability class. One of the students, Bethany Young, said much of the feedback they received was from students who had already considered reducing their water use, but that the challenge had put it back in the forefront of their minds.

The RC students are considering partnering with Facilities Management

again and hoping to have combine conservation efforts for water and energy next year or the year following. This way, Young said, residences would be aware of conserving both at the same time.

She would also like to see a permanent change on policy to regulate water use.

“UNB gets its water so cheaply that people don’t really care about how much water residences use,” Young continued.

“It would be great to see a policy change in the amount of water UNB’s allowed to use.”

The most important thing Young has taken away from her water sustainability class is knowledge about the water purification process.

“It doesn’t get cleaned 100 per cent and then it gets dumped back into the rivers, so if you’re not using as much water, less water is wasted and less pollution would happen.”

Harrison House don Brian Beaudette said he is excited about the house’s late lead, but feels it might have been advertised better.

He said as soon as people in Harrison heard about the challenge, they were much more conscious.

“There were still people finding out about it this week,” he said.

“There was an email sent out about the rankings of the houses, but not much more.”

He said having some form of a constant reminder might have produced more accurate results.

“I think this would be constantly on people’s minds because it does seem to be a concern on campus when people are actually recognizing the fact they should be thinking about [water conservation],” he said.

“Also, I don’t know if they need any incentive like they did for the flat-screen TV. Personal pride is big enough. Maybe even a pizza party would cost significantly less.”

Although there were suggestions from Beaudette, they did not reflect a poor attitude toward the challenge. He said water conservation is something people want make an effort with and he was enthusiastic about the idea of making the challenge annual.

“If Harrison did have a win it would help boost water conservation that much more in the house. I think it would have a positive benefit and it would trickle down through the entire house for water conservation throughout the entire year.”

He said there are obstacles in the building which may have hampered results, such as water fountains running endlessly. Beaudette would like to see that put to a stop and hopes Facilities Management will take a look at fixing the problem as soon as possible. He is especially aware how quickly running water really adds up after taking part in the challenge.

Members of the Renaissance College water conservation class gather together. Mike Erb / The Brunswickan

UNBSU members back from CASA conference Alex Kress News Reporter Student Union President Shannon Carmont-McKinley was in Ottawa last week to discuss student issues with politicians and policy-makers.

She was a delegate for the Canadian Alliance of Student Associations on behalf of UNB. She was one of about 50 delegates from across Canada lobbying on different issues and proposing changes in policy.

She met with mostly Atlantic decision makers, and almost entirely conservative Members of Parliament.

A main issue she advocated for was reforms to the Canadian Student Loan Program, suggesting it be modelled after the New Brunswick system which eliminates the student-parental income aspect.

She feels, as certainly many other students with loans do, the income of a student’s parent should not have any bearing on the amount of loan money they receive.

“It’s a really easy thing to argue for because all students come from such diverse backgrounds,” Carmont-McKinley said.

“You win people over on the morality and the ethics and common sense of the policy, but the implementation is where it gets a little more complex.”

Another issue bothering Carmont-McKinley is that the Canadian Student Loan Program only allows students to own a car

worth up to $5,000. If it’s worth more than that it’s subtracted from the loan.

Other issues that were lobbied for included a post-secondary support program for First Nations and Inuit students, the current copyright legislation under Bill C-32 and the discussion regarding copyright and costs for students, and looking at removing the book importation tax which costs students about $30 million dollars every year. She said there is a tariff that predominantly goes to publishers and distributors of textbooks.

She also lobbied for direct federal money transfers to education, similar to direct healthcare transfers. She wants to see a set amount allocated for spending on education in the province, but MP’s weren’t as enthusiastic.

Soon, the Student Union will be lobbying provincially. An urgent concern will be to ensure tuition stays regulated. UNB has one of the highest tuitions in Canada and Carmont-McKinley said there is danger of budget cuts because of the high provincial deficit.

They will also lobby for a five per cent increase in the provincial grant relating to the university’s operating budget, and an additional year on top of the four year parameters required for getting the Timely Completion Benefit, which lessens accumulated student loan debt if a degree is finished on time.

brunswickannews

Dec. 1, 2010 • Issue 13 • Volume 144 • 3

UNB at the middle of the pack Maclean’s annual university rankings came out last week and the University of New Brunswick didn’t exactly come out on top. UNB has been ranked sixth of 12 comprehensive universities and just 33rd overall.

UNB placed...

Last of 12 for scholarships and bursaries

Sixth of 12 overall in the comprehensive category

Eighth of 12 for students services

Third of 12 for student awards

Eighth of 12 for library acquisitions

Second of 12 for student/faculty ratio

First of 12 for library expenses

Tenth of 12 for faculty awards

Tenth of 12 for social sciences and humanities grants

First of 12 for library holdings per student

33 of 49 for best Eleventh of 12 for overall university medical science 26 of 49 for grants highest quality Fifth of 12 for op- education erating budget 36 of 49 for most innovative Sixth of 12 for research dollars 39 of 49 for leaders of tomorrow

By Hilary Paige Smith, with files from Sandy Chase The results are in.

Maclean’s magazine released their 2010 university rankings early last week and UNB didn’t exactly come out on top.

As a comprehensive university, UNB placed sixth of 12. On a national scale, ranking by reputation, UNB only placed 33 of 49.

University President Dr. Eddy Campbell said he is “not so keen on these rankings.”

“The information in this magazine is I think of great interest to students and to parents. There’s no question about that, but taking a complex organization like a university and saying ‘You’re number six.’ I don’t think so. I question the value of that particular exercise,” he said, adding that despite his feelings about the ranking system, he recognizes the value of the information the annual issue provides.

This year marked the 20th anniversary of the university rankings issue and Maclean’s looks at almost every aspect of a university campus to generate their results. They use so-called “performance indicators” and look at student awards, the student/ faculty ratio, grants, faculty award, research dollars, student support, library services and reputation when placing a school.

UNB scored in the top three for student awards, student/faculty ratio, library expenses and holdings per student and international students enrolled in graduate studies.

The university scored the lowest in the comprehensive category for student scholarships and bursary, coming in last place.

“It leaps off the page to me,” Campbell said.

Once the university’s Strategic Plan is complete, Campbell hopes to start a fundraising campaign to be directed at funding for student scholarships and bursaries.

“One of the things we’re going to have to try and address is exactly that (scholarships and bursaries). You don’t really want to be at the bottom of the league tables on anything and you particularly don’t want to be at the bottom of the league tables in terms of student support. I’m unhappy about that for sure,” he said.

Campbell attributed UNB’s low place on the National Reputational Ranking, where Waterloo University took the top spot, to Atlantic Canadian modesty.

“I think I understand why we are where we are. This is a university that is, in fact, I think really a terrific place by Canadian standards and I do think I speak from a position of some knowledge and experience,” the president said, adding that he held a position at Queen’s University for 21 years. Queen’s placed seventh in the reputational rankings.

He said Atlantic Canadians are the most modest of all Canadians and the UNB community rarely takes an opportunity to “blow our own horn.”

“It’s not that we don’t do wonderful things. We damn well do, but we have a tendency to move onto the next thing too quickly. We need to take time to celebrate what we do and we need to make sure people are aware of the wonderful things we do.”

Josh Bojahra, a second year student, called UNB’s national reputational ranking “atrocious.”

“That a university that’s this old, that’s been established this long should have been able to figure out how to be a good university by now. I think that maybe, from my own personal experience, I think the administration needs reach out to the students a bit more, find out why (the rankings are low),” he said.

Bojahra said he is dissatisfied with the amount of interaction and consultation administration members have with students about their overall university experience.

“They do surveys about the Sodhexo food and stuff like that, but nothing about the overall university experience really and I think they should really maybe find out why we’re ranked that low in the first place.”

Campbell is uncertain whether or not the Maclean’s rankings have a large bearing on a new student’s university selection.

“I think people take these overall rankings with a grain of salt, with a big grain of salt… In my experience, you cannot choose a bad university in Canada. The public universities in Canada are really, really good by international standards,” he said.

“You can’t make a bad choice as a student going to post-secondary education in Canada. There are only good choices and what I would say to students is ‘You have good choices and you certainly have a great choice if you come to UNB.’” Lara Shaw, another second year student, agrees with Campbell about the quality of education available at UNB, but also wishes there was more student consultation.

“I feel like it’s a really good university, but because of the reputation of Queen’s and Western and things like that, we have so much to live up to... I know a lot of other universities, but this one is pretty damn good in my opinion… It’s a very nice university,” she said.

In the comprehensive universities category, Simon Fraser took first place. For national reputational rankings, Waterloo took the top spot.

4 • Dec. 1, 2010 • Issue 13 • Volume 144

brunswickannews

Counselling Services to review appointment policies Hilary Paige Smith News Editor Counselling Services may be looking into some major policy changes in the new year.

At present, there is a five to six week waiting list for a counselling appointment. Dr. Rice Fuller, director of counselling services, said there are about 55 to 60 people on the waiting list.

All of the people on the waiting list have already had their initial triage by a counsellor. After an initial appointment to assess the student, those on the waiting list are arranged in order of urgency.

There is about a two-week waiting list for a triage appointment.

“When people go on the waiting list, we do our best to impress upon them, if things should change and something gets worse, please, please, please contact us and we will get you back in and reassess you and, if necessary, start seeing you on a regular basis,” Fuller said.

Now, the clinic is in the process of seeing students who have been on the waiting list since mid-October.

One of the major problems Counselling Services is having right now is the type of mental health issues they are attending to. Counselling Services exists to help students deal with stress, pressure and to help students meet their personal and academic goals.

Fuller said the clinic has seen an increase in students coming in with severe depression, self-injury, psychotic symptoms and anxiety disorders.

“At counselling centres all across North America, we are seeing an increase in the number of students who are requesting counselling or needing counselling and, in addition to that, the complexity and severity of the problems that students are presenting with are significantly increased,” Fuller said, adding that where university counsellors used to see students mainly for “developmental issues,” regarding transitioning to university life, most students are coming in with serious mental health issues.

Fuller said Counselling Services has also seen an increase in the number of students coming in with thoughts of suicide.

“Not only are the numbers increased for people seeking out services, but the people seeking out those services are presenting with more complicated problems and that’s certainly one of the main things that are driving the wait list.”

10 per cent of the services’ patients are using 40 per cent of their resources, according to the director.

Fuller said in order to reduce wait times and see more students, counselling sessions need to be distributed more evenly among patients.

“Instead of having 10 per cent get 40 per cent of service, we need to figure out a way that more students can kind of share in that. It’s not really a fair distribution,” he said.

Counselling Services may be looking at instituting a limit on the number of sessions an individual patient is allowed to have each year. Fuller said, if this does happen, they will work at connecting students with more serious issues to resources in the community.

“As a university counselling centre, we’re not necessarily set up to deal with the most severe problems… Our mission is to support students’ academic success and that doesn’t necessarily include long-term psychotherapy. We would more want to be focusing on brief interventions to get people back on track academically.”

Because of the university’s large deficit, the option of hiring more counsellors to meet the needs of students is not feasible. Next semester, Counselling Services will be taking on a number of practicum students pursuing their PhDs and Masters degrees who will also be counsellors.

There was only one practicum student this semester.

Counselling Services does have one urgent appointment available per day, used only for their most serious cases. Students having suicidal thoughts, students who have recently lost a close relative or friend or experienced a traumatic event, among other things, typically use the urgent appointment. Fuller said this spot is filled 55 per cent of the time.

Fuller said Counselling Services might also introduce walk-in hours for triage assessments because

Counselling Services location in C.C. Jones House. Here, students are seen for everything from stress management to depression. Andrew Meade / The Brunswickan these don’t often take up a full hour.

Changes could be implemented as early as next semester to help see more students and reduce the waiting list.

Fuller advised students who are looking to get

counselling for a significant crisis, they should take advantage of the urgent appointment. For emergency situations, students are advised to visit the emergency room or call the provincial CHIMO hotline at 1-800-667-5005.

Connecting the dots to improve NB mental health services Colin McPhail Editor-in-Chief Maureen Bilerman is connecting the dots for improved mental health care in New Brunswick.

For one minute at noon on Dec. 8, 1,000 community members will connect, fingertips to fingertips, in an effort to raise awareness for the need of better mental health services for youth in crisis.

Bilerman understands the dire situation all to well. Her daughter, Sarah, has been battling her bi-polar condition for over three years now. She feels the system is lacking the necessary services for diagnosis and treatment of children.

“I would argue, after three years, that a lot more services and treatments need to be put in place,” said Bilerman. “Support for a family that’s dealing with a teen who’s emotionally unstable.

Support for dealing with the school systems in transitioning them back into the school systems.”

Three years ago, Sarah Bilerman became ill and her parents were helpless in aiding their daughter as the provincial resources were insufficient in diagnosing and treating her illness.

Over the course of the three-year period, Sarah overdosed on extra-strength Tylenol four times. During these times, Bilerman was forced to accompany her daughter to the Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital only to be sent home.

“She was still extremely suicidal, but ended up being sent home because there was no place for her to go.”

It took an enormous of time and effort to finally have Sarah admitted to the Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Unit (CAPU) located in Moncton. Unfortunately for the Bilermans, the unit is only temporary facility that diagnoses the patient, but does not treat the illness. The only other centres around the province are predominantly for adults.

Feeling frustrated and helpless, Bilerman came across the province’s Child and Youth Advocate, Bernard Richard.

Richard had recently written a report identifying specific treatment needs of youth in crisis. He has since gone ahead and proposed the building for a Centre of Excellence for Children and Youth with Complex Needs in New Brunswick.

The facility would encompass everything a child or adolescent would need for diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation. Richard said they are currently formulating the exact approach to create the best model for the centre.

“Some youths do require residential care because they are out there and always have been,” explained Richard, “it just cannot be the default response.

Instead, it needs to be part of a package that is community based and found on best practices, expertise, training and research supported from start to finish.”

“That is what we are likely to end up recommending. The struggle is to find an affordable formula because the status quo would be and is ‘bad.’ It is not working and may in fact be making matters worse.”

Inspired by Richard efforts, Bilerman initiated the Development of Treatment Services (D.O.T.S.) for Youth Campaign two month ago.

Bilerman has been working feverishly garnering support for the D.O.T.S. Campaign through education and action meetings. The meetings are to inform the public and have them write a personal letter lobbying the government to enact policy change.

The campaign has been well received by the community as an overwhelming outpour of support has been showed in such as short amount of time.

Bilerman was especially thankful for the support on College Hill.

“Students are a huge part of this. They are going to carry it.”

Even though the emotional toll placed on Bilerman has been staggering, she remains focused on and excited for the centre as she explained the first talk she had given.

“I took part in the process and it was absolutely the hardest weekend of my life, but it was amazing,” said Bilerman.

“There was a total cross section of parents and everyone who works in the field really hammering out what we need. It’s not so much one building, but a shift in all the services. It’s going to make a huge difference and it will also provide, most importantly for me as a parent, a safe place temporarily for kids who are in crisis.”

The focal point of the campaign will take place Wednesday, Dec. 8 when 1,000 black dots will be painted on the sidewalk linking the Victoria Health Centre to the NB Legislature. At noon the participants will link hands to connect the dots then march down to the legislature to greet Premier David Alward with the hundreds of letters.

Bilerman urges everyone to come out, sport a white t-shirt to proudly show the dot and support the cause.

thebruns.ca

brunswickannews

why they mo’ved

By Hilary Paige Smith, Mike Erb and Andrew Meade

Dec. 1, 2010 • Issue 13 • Volume 144 • 5

Fredericton, particularly College Hill, has a history of moustache-sprouting success in the month of November.

As of Monday, the capital city had raised more than $33,000 to support prostate cancer research. Not all participants raise funds, but many do. Teams across campus kept their upper lips lush with hair, with some teams raising thousands of dollars. Individuals also raised hundreds of dollars in funding and promoted prostate cancer awareness and research.

Movember was born in 2003 in Australia after a few guys decided to bring back the moustache and do something good for men’s health. Since then, Movember has expanded across the globe and every November men in Canada, the United States, countries across Europe and Africa and New Zealand grow moustaches and raise money. Global participation last year was more than 250,000 and $47 million dollars have been raised since the fundraisers inception. The Canadian campaign is the second largest Movember campaign in the world.

Prostate cancer is widespread and 24,600 men will be diagnosed with the disease this year alone, with 4,300 fatal cases. Prostate cancer is the most common cancer to afflict Canadian men and one in six are expected to be diagnosed throughout his lifetime.

Dylan Crawford

Josh Fleck

Lee Folkins

Lucas Reid

“(I did Movember) because it’s a good way to raise awareness and partly because it’s a reason to grow a moustache and I’d never, ever be allowed to grow a moustache otherwise.”

“I wanted an excuse to grow a moustache.”

“A moustache is kind of the only thing I could ever grow, so I always liked growing it just for fun.

Then somebody told me about Movember and I thought why not, I’ll grow it out. If you’re helping to raise awareness for prostate cancer in some way, shape or form, then it’s not hurting anything.”

“There’s so many other things, like CIBC Run for the Cure, which is for breast cancer.

You don’thear too much on the male end of things so it’s a great fundraiser and it’s a great time for awareness. It’s actually coming along. You see a lot more people this year rockin’ out the ‘staches than in previous years.”

Reid raised $50.

Marc André

Jon Harty

“I always wanted to have a moustache, so I figured it was a good opportunity to have a moustache.”

“I think it’s more of a fun kinda’ thing. It’s a good cause and it raises awareness. It’s fun as well and it’s something different.”

Fleck raised $75 for prostate cancer research, along with his team mates.

Adam Spurrell

“I chose to participate because I think I can grow lovely moustache and I want to help contribute money towards fighting cancer.”

Spurrell raised $100.

Sandy Chase

“Raising funds and awareness for prostate cancer research and support is a great cause. I was happy to participate. Oh, and moustaches are totally badass.”

Chase helped fundraise among residence teams.

brunswickanopinion

Dec. 1, 2010 • Issue 13 • Volume 144 • 6

editor@thebruns.ca

the brunswickan

Editorial Board

Editor-in-Chief • Colin McPhail Managing • Alex Duncan News • Hilary Paige Smith Arts • Alison Clack Sports • Christopher Cameron Photo • Andrew Meade Copy • Kristen MacArthur Production • Christian Hapgood Online • Sandy Chase Staff Advertising Sales Rep • Bill Traer Delivery • Dan Gallagher Contributors Alex Kress, Matt Belyea, Brian Savoie, Mike Erb, Rob Williams, Cherise Letson, Josh Fleck, Amy Page, Ryan Brideau, Nicole Vair, Jared Morrison, Viola Pruss, Haley Ryan, Maggie DeWolfe, Shawn O’Neill, Justin Gaudet, Bryannah James, Ben Hicks, Nancy Ward, Oussama D. Hamza, Alanah Duffy, Ashley Theriault, Tomi Gbeleyi, John Robb, Jennifer Bishop The Brunswickan relies primarily on a volunteer base to produce its issues every week. Volunteers can drop by room 35 of the SUB at any time to find out how they can get involved.

About Us The Brunswickan, in its 144th year of publication, is Canada’s Oldest Official Student Publication.

We are an autonomous student newspaper owned and operated

by Brunswickan Publishing Inc., a non-profit, independent body.

We are a founding member of the Canadian University Press, and love it so. We are also members of U-Wire, a media exchange of university media throughout North America.

We publish weekly during the academic year with a circulation of 6,000.

Letters Must be submitted by e-mail including your name, letters with pseudonymns will not be printed.

Letters must be 400 words at maximum. Deadline for letters is Friday at 5 p.m. before each issue.

Editorial Policy While we endeavour to provide an open forum for a variety of viewpoints and ideas, we may refuse any submission considered by the editorial board to be racist, sexist, libellous, or in any way discriminatory.

The opinions and views expressed in this newspaper are those of the individual writers, and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Brunswickan, its Editorial Board, or its Board of Directors.

All editorial content appearing in The Brunswickan is the property of Brunswickan Publishing Inc. Stories, photographs, and artwork contained herein cannot be reproduced without the express, written permission of the Editorin-Chief.

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Why we need WikiLeaks

Ishmael N. Daro Cup Opinions Bureau Chief SASKATOON (CUP) — WikiLeaks released its latest trove of classified U.S. government documents amid dire warnings from officials that the release would hurt national security and jeopardize important international relationships.

The greatest effect so far, however, has been to reaffirm how much information governments collect and how little of it reaches the public.

On Nov. 28, the online whistleblower site started releasing some of its 251,287 documents in conjunction with several prominent media outlets. They comprise embassy cables from around the world that are often candid, and sometimes startling.

Earlier this year, for example, U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates told his French counterpart that “Russian democracy has disappeared” and the country was “an oligarchy run by the security services.” Another cable from Ankara accuses members of the Turkish government of harbouring “neo-Ottoman Islamist fantasies,” which will surely become an Internet meme very soon.

But as entertaining as some of the revelations can be, others show the more sinister side of foreign policy.

The most shocking cable, from July 2009, comes from Secretary of State Hilary Clinton and calls for U.S. diplomats to spy on the United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon. The classified directive asked for a detailed sketch of the UN leader’s management style, his plans for certain regions and the collection of “biometric information,” which typically includes things like fingerprints, signatures and iris recognition.

As with any WikiLeaks release, news coverage will soon shift from the content of the documents to whether the controversial organization should have released them in the first place. Without WikiLeaks, however, it would take decades for some of this information to become public — if at all.

There are undoubtedly problems associated with making WikiLeaks the gatekeeper of this sensitive information, but if founder Julian Assange and his international network of associates are guilty of releasing too much, governments around the world are guilty of sharing too little of what they do with

Julian Assange, founder of WikiLeaks, is an international hero to some and villain to others. Espen Moe/ Flickr the public.

In an age of complete access to the sum of humanity’s knowledge — on anything from the ancient Egyptians to the best chocolate chip cookie recipe — our governments still hoard data as though it’s 1950.

For example, knowing that Afghanistan’s vice president walked out of the country with $52 million in his luggage would be of great concern to countries like Canada that are pouring significant resources into the corrupt regime of Hamid Karzai. Now, thanks to WikiLeaks, we do know.

The most consistent complaint against WikiLeaks has been that their releases endanger the lives of individuals who could be targeted by the likes of the Taliban for helping the U.S. But those claims have not been proven to be true.

Indeed, after crying wolf for weeks after the Afghan war logs were released, the Defense Department admitted that no real damage had been done.

In this latest release, the State Department warned WikiLeaks that they would “not engage in a negotiation” to help redact the names of people who could be placed at risk, making it that much

more likely that someone could indeed by harmed be the release.

Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, believes in “radical democracy” in which information flows freely and powerful institutions like governments and corporations are completely transparent about their activities. Those same institutions, on the other hand, have a vested interest in obscuring their activities from the public — sometimes to the point of abuse.

While new technology gives us access to more information than ever, getting government data is still like pulling teeth.

The 2010 Freedom of Information audit by the Canadian Newspaper Association shows that the federal government uses every trick in the book to delay or deny requests. “The concept of freedom of information has been eroded,” said CNA president John Hinds when the audit was released earlier this year.

The government’s own information commissioner has concluded that freedom of information “is at risk of being totally obliterated because delays threaten to render the entire access regime irrelevant in our current information economy.”

Of course, Canada is not unique in this regard. The temptation to cast a veil of secrecy over anything potentially embarrassing is strong around the world, and it is up to citizens to hold governments to account. But when the normal channels fail, leaks become the only viable way to get information out.

Does WikiLeaks always act appropriately? No, of course not. Releasing Sarah Palin’s family photos, submitted by hackers who gained access to her email account, probably did little to advance “radical democracy,” but it also revealed that the then-governor of Alaska was inappropriately using her personal account to conduct state business.

In the end, we rely on an imperfect vehicle like WikiLeaks to reveal important facts because our governments will not always do what is right. There is something to be admired in the organization’s commitment to transparency and without activists like Julian Assange who constantly push to open the world up, the information age could regress. And while we may not absolutely want this WikiLeaks, the world needs some kind of WikiLeaks, and Assange offers us the only option we have.

Take a break and masturbate Kay Sex Columnist It’s the most wonderful time… of the year The combination of term end, semester exams and holiday shopping. For some of you, the stress of term end may be interfering with the joys of wandering through the shopping malls, or perusing the holiday gift websites. Or maybe you are the kind to use holiday shopping as your procrastination method, spending hours in the mall or online stores instead of buried in books. Regardless of your approach, tension builds as the days get shorter and pending exams sneak closer and closer. Stress release is a must.

So, take a break - masturbate!

Holiday sales hit the sex toy rack around the same time as every other store. Why not add a little something extra to your self-loving time. Spice sex up with you!

Unfortunately, living in Fredericton limits your sex toy options to one store.

Luckily, the Internet provides a very wide variety of credible, sex-positive, online stores to shop. There’s even a great selection based out of Canada (check out Venus Envy out of Halifax and Ottawa). Keeping it mainstream,

there are a few things to consider when picking out your perfect pleasure tool.

Let’s start with the obvious: Cost: How much are you willing to pay? Sex toys range the full gamut of costs. High priced toys don’t always result in a higher quality toy. Material, type and celebrity endorsements (read porn star body parts, Dr. Birman, etc.) will influence price.

Type: Are you looking for penetration or external stimulation only? Dildos, anal beads, plugs, balls, prostate stimulators, etc., are used for insertive play and you’ll want to consider size, texture and lube combinations. Vibrators are specifically toys that need a power source and moves in some way (vibrates, rotates or jiggles) to create pleasure. You’ll want to consider speed options and type of and pattern of stimulation. Masturbation sleeves for men usually don’t come with vibrators but the internal texture and size are key ingredients. Or buy a multi-use toy and consider all your options.

Material: Sex toys are made out of all kinds of different materials. Arguably the best is 100% medical grade silicone.

Silicon is non-porous (read no bacterial build up), can withstand high temperatures (read throw it in the dishwasher)

and durable yet flexible (read comfortable insertion). However, do not use silicone lubes on silicone toys as they will break down. It is also common to find silicone/rubber mixes. Toys made of these materials have some of the qualities of pure silicone toys but generally break down easier and are more porous. Avoid jelly rubbers. These toys are soft and porous making them very hard to disinfect. Hard materials like glass, metal or hard plastics are generally non-porous and durable like silicone but cheaper. Watch for breakage. Something called phthalates can be found in sex toys and pose a health hazard. Check out Coalition Against Toxic Toys for more information.

A few of the less obvious considerations: Power source: Batteries die; plugs require an outlet nearby (or a long extension cord). Rechargeable toys are a great compromise. YET, I have heard tell of one very popular toy that would recharge just fine to subsequently turn itself on and burn the battery before the next use could occur.

Versatility: All toys can double as self-sex or partner-sex supplements.

Some are designed to do so, like the We

Vibe, which is made to be worn during intercourse. Other toys have a plethora of accessories that can be purchased to enhance or diversify functioning. Still other toys, by their pure design, are easy to use alone or with someone, in conjunction with more toys, have accessories, can be used for insertive or external stimulation, etc.

Transportability: Ever go through airport security or customs to be chosen for a random suitcase check with a dildo/vibrator, leather strap-on kit or whips and chains snuggled between layers of clothing? Some sex toys are made in discrete shapes, smaller sizes, come with carrying cases or silk bags to make transport easier and a little less embarrassing (for those who may embarrass). Oh, that’s just my shower massager grandma; all my studying has made my muscles sore.

A final note to help protect from the spread of infections: do not share your sex toys with other people, use a condom on insertive toys, do not use oil based lubricants and wash your toys after every use.

Now, open that web-browser and give a little gift to you *sung in tune*.

Until the new year.

brunswickanopinion

Dec. 1, 2010 • Issue 13 • Volume 144 • 7

letters to the editor.

Let UNB remember one of its own Dear Editor: Does the name Bryan Priestman ring a bell on the UNB campus, among students, but more importantly, among faculty members? I seriously wonder.

On Nov. 11, after attending the ceremony at the cenotaph, I went to the Forest Hill cemetery, as I have been doing for the past few years on that day. I walked to the grave of Bryan Priestman.

The epitaph reads: GREATER LOVE HATH NO MAN THAN THIS. I used to lay a flower, but this time I planted a small Canadian flag at the base of the headstone. I went back a few days later, and the small flag was standing alone. Am I the only one who paid him a visit on that day, that marked the 65th anniversary of his death?

A Second World War veteran, Dr. Priestman was a UNB professor in the Physics department. On Nov. 11, 1945, he was walking across the Old Railway bridge, and two young boys were close behind him. He heard screams:

Eight-year-old Ronald Dempsey had fallen through a gap. Bryan Priestman jumped into the river, grabbed the kid, but there was a short struggle and both disappeared into the frigid water. Their bodies were found the following day.

It seems to me that it would be appropriate for UNB to organize a brief ceremony at Bryan Priestman’s grave, each year, on Nov. 11. This good and brave man certainly deserves it.

Sincerely, Jean-Claude Arluison

My bloody iPod

Parliament of Canada

Sheldon Boucher An Opinion Remember those dismal days back when you could be mobile with only one CD at a time (Maybe with a player that didn’t even have anti-skip)? Or back even farther into the annals of history when cassettes were in vogue?

If you are like me, the thoughts of not having an omnipresent library of music organized to your tastes should seem troublesome. We listen to music a lot. It is as important to us as it has ever been. We get cranky when we can’t update our iPods (maybe that’s just me).

But mixtapes are no longer part of our musical dialogue.

Back when Charlie Sheen was still acting in movies, if you wanted a compilation, you had to record onto a cassette.

Shuffling through records, taking time to record, and writing out all the track names by hand could be a painstaking, and time consuming, process. But it was something which was done unabashedly by hopeful romantics.

For your girlfriend, that effort was patent. Simply by virtue of handing that tape over to your significant other, she knew that you spent at least a few hours thinking of her. If you were going to go through the trouble of transferring music onto a tape, you were going to do it well.

Some of that compiling magic was retained when we started burning CDs. But once it was possible to rip all your music onto your computer, making a CD was only a matter of scrolling, clicking, dragging, and dropping. The process became vacuous, and our girlfriends suffered.

As recordable CDs became cheap

ubiquitous items, we became sloppy absent-minded drones—at least with our capacity to put together a thoughtful list of songs. We didn’t (and do not) need to feverishly rifle through music seeking perfection when we could make a CD every 10 minutes, and throw them away just as fast.

In the age of Apple, we have managed to squeeze out the mix-CD’s last gasp of air. By relying on iPods more and more, we have begun to distance ourselves from the album form. For most of us, when we buy an album it gets ripped into iTunes and transferred onto our iPod. This is a perfectly acceptable thing to do, but we are subliminally making the album form less and less familiar to us. The iPod has even taken care of our need for CD players in vehicles.

If your girlfriend wants to enjoy the simple dating pleasure of receiving a compilation from her boyfriend, it is something which she must ask for. When she does, you are left scrambling about, nervous that the songs you select won’t be what she had in mind. As soon as she has to ask, the expectations are raised.

We are so unfamiliar with the process

of making a compilation that the mere idea of doing it makes us uncomfortable.

We have romanticized them to such outrageous proportions that it has become impossible for us to use them as a real source of romance. Once we romanticize something as culturally incendiary as the mixtape, we can no longer accept it as normal relationship behaviour. It becomes laughable.

Except in John Cusack movies about lists, the mix-tape is a zeitgeist lost to the netherworld. We are able to shuffle through music libraries so rapidly on our iPods that the process of making a compilation, even for ourselves, becomes unpractical. Yes, our desire for convenience and practicality has eclipsed our romantic intuitions.

I realize that many people reading this have probably made mixtapes for their girlfriends or boyfriends, and I apologize if this reads like an attack on your efforts.

I am not able to claim any expertise in this category myself. But next time your relationship goes sour and you need something to blame, point your finger at the auspicious iPod. But don’t forget to update it first.

Become a Parliamentary Guide Give guided tours of Parliament

Apply online!

Deadline: Friday January 14, 2011

www.parl.gc.ca/guides

thebruns.ca

brunswickanopinion

8 • Dec. 1, 2010 • Issue 13 • Volume 144

Student

Viewpoint.

If you were a holiday, which holiday would you be and why?

Let everyone know whats on your mind.

“Halloween, I like carving pumpkins.”

Marika Wheeler

Jeff Lidstone

“New Years. It’s always a party.”

Andrew Bond

Aleisha Gregory “Valentines day, ‘cause I’m so sweet.”

“St. Patrick’s day. Green is my favourite colour.”

Jenna MacQuarrie

Cameron Duplesis

“Easter, it’s colourful and energetic.”

“Christmas, I like the time of year .”

Stephen Smith

“The Queen’s birthday.

God save the Queen! .”

“Groundhog day, I love Bill Murray.”

Adam Spurrell

“Thanksgiving.

Pie and turkey.”

Mariah Cloutier

brunswickanarts arts@thebruns.ca

Dec. 1, 2010 • Issue 13 • Volume 144 • 9

Dance team shines in premier performance

Alison Clack Arts Editor The warm buzz of anticipation was a welcome break from the cold.

It was the end of the semester by the time UNB Dance put on this year’s premier performance and the long wait was more than worth it.

A thumping bass flooded down the stairways of the SUB Wednesday, Nov. 24, calling the audience in from the cold. From the time doors opened until the performance began tens of dozens of people filled in through the doors and found their seats in the audience.

There was some minor shuffling of seats as audience members adjusted themselves to find the best view. The ballroom might not have had the best set up to view the dances with all the chairs on the same level, but audience members seemed unperturbed at having to stand up or shift their seats to better view the show.

As everyone settled in the emcees took the stage and introduced the show. The show entitled “Once Upon a Time...” featured seven different dance styles including tap, contemporary, Broadway and break dancing. Each dance told a variety of stories from drill sergeants with disobedient privates to poker playing desperate housewives.

A certain crowd pleaser was the second dance number of the show, a Broadway piece choreographed to the female empowering song “I’m a Woman.”

The song was danced with only three dancers, all of which participated in choreographing the song which centred on some housewives cheating at poker.

Nova Scotia natives and brother sister duo, Emily and Tom Lutz played some stripped down bluegrass to the audience after the first two dance numbers. The duo did a good job for what they said was their second time performing together.

They had a few stumbles with forgetting lyrics but otherwise the duo sounded good and showed great potential.

Seven different dance styles including hip-hop, contemporary, jazz and Broadway were performed at UNB Dance’s “Once Upon A Time...” show last Wednesday night.. Andrew Meade/The Brunswickan.

Other musical guests included The Arka Teks, who are looking for a few more fans to help them win a showcase in front of the infamous Gene Simmons of KISS fame, as well as DBlais who was working double time as emcee and as a

beat-boxing act.

In the intermission for the show some b-boys entertained the seated crowd while other audience members bought refreshments and bid on a Christmas basket with a couple hundred dollars with

of assorted goodies.

Another number in the show, entitled “The Kill” featured three girls dancing in mock strait jackets, slowly pulling them off as the dance went on. It was an emotional piece and the girls did an impressive

job dancing without the use of their arms through the majority of the piece.

The club’s first performance was a wonderfully entertaining one. Watch out for their next performance in the winter term.

Novaks search for Fredericton following Matt Belyea Arts Reporter The Novaks are heading back to the downtown brickhouse for a special show.

The band, which has been to Fredericton before opening up for The Trews, Matt Mays and Sam Roberts, will be at The Capital Complex dancing to the beat of their own drum this time around.

The Saint John’s Newfoundland trio is back on tour with a new digital release

called Big World. The Novaks are made up of Mick Davis, Mark Neary, and Elliot Dicks who are all accustomed to travelling.

“We’ve toured a whole fucking shit load all over the country and elsewhere, and you have to, for a band like us it’s the only way to make it by,” says Davis.

And they’re no strangers to the East Coast either.

“We’ve been to [Fredericton] many times but don’t have a huge following [...] Fredericton and Moncton have been a little bit harder but we love going and we’ll keep going until it works

a little better.”

Davis has been writing songs for a long time and finds he is writing about the business of music and trying to keep himself above water.

“Rock and roll is for bitchin’ and complainin’, but not to make you feel bad to make you feel good,” says Davis.

In recent times there hasn’t been much for the band to complain about.

The release of their long awaited sequel album in 2009 titled Things Fall Apart came with success, and last May they were invited by George Stroumboulopoulos to speak on his radio show. This

meeting eventually led The Novaks to a live performance on CBC’s The Hour.

“We met George last year when we were on tour with The Arkells. I think he had known us already, I’m not sure how, anyway he introduced himself and he invited us to be on his radio show when we were in town. He had this idea to have new bands in the public’s eye on his TV show, so he made a list of five or six bands and we were on it.”

The Novaks are on a climb in their career and one that has been reached through a growth in their music. Since their first album the band has a lost a

member which has slightly changed the face and direction their sound.

“We became this power trio you know, we decided not to get anybody to take his role. We’ve just been together for so long and who the fuck would want to deal with that. So we just got bigger amps and turned it up.”

After travelling to Fredericton time and again it’s fair that The Novaks are getting a crack at the main act. Ontario based band Flash Lightnin’ will be touring alongside Davis and company bringing their dark rock to the downtown dungeon on Dec. 10.

Series reboot: Sonic the Hedgehog made right Sega makes an impressive comeback with Sonic Colors Angela Espinoza T he Other Press (Douglas College) NEW WESTMINSTER, B.C. (CUP) — Over time, various video game titles and consoles receive updates, expansions, revivals and sequels. But Sonic the Hedgehog is one that desperately needs to die.

Even those out of the gaming loop know who this speedy blue hedgehog is. Sega’s poster critter was one of the biggest crazes in the early ’90s, releasing several acclaimed games and two popular ABC cartoons shortly before it entered redundancy.

The series was expected to fade

out until Sega shocked everyone with 1998’s Sonic Adventure, and again in 2001 with Sonic Adventure 2. In a perfect world, Sega would’ve ended Sonic on a high note, but instead they chose to repeat history: Two more bizarre cartoons and a slew of embarrassing games. Once again, we anticipated an upcoming end for Sonic, but at this year’s Electronic Entertainment Expo, Sega revealed other plans: Sonic Colors.

As the story goes, Sonic’s notorious archenemy, Dr. Eggman, has apparently repented his evil ways. In an attempt to convince us, he’s built the single most epic theme park the gaming world has seen in recent years.

However, Sonic and his pal, Tails, are one step ahead, and faster than Sonic

himself, we unravel Eggman’s ‘secret’ plan. Sonic Colors introduces us to a new race of aliens called Wisps. They are cute, mostly squid-like creatures that harness a different ability depending on their specific color — cyan turns you into a laser, orange into a rocket. Eggman of course is using the theme park as a forced captivity for the Wisps, and plans on using their powers for his own gain.

Sega has been trying to make 2010 the year of Sonic’s revival, from stripping their least popular games from shelves to — finally — hiring a brand new voice cast. Their attempts, as usual, have been hit and miss. For example, Sonic Adventure was ported to the Xbox 360 and PlayStation3 in September, which was met with a near-universal panning.

However, Sonic Colors seems to be the best Sonic the Hedgehog game we’ve seen in a long time.

Although there is a copy for the Nintendo DS, which contains different features, I’ll be covering the Wii’s version. The game play in Sonic Colors literally blends that of every past Sonic game, often switching from first-person to side-scrolling views, and referencing some classic scenes and moves as well.

Some of the Wisps, like cyan, really enhance the game, while others can quickly become an annoyance.

But as you progress, you gradually unlock more Wisps, which makes for some serious replay value.

Then there’s the graphics, which are without a doubt some of the best

we’ve ever seen on the Wii. The levels are colourful and absolutely stunning, and the theme park designs range from a trippy space station to a mountain made of cakes, candies and hamburgers. In other words, you’re going to have a lot of fun.

Unfortunately though, you’ll be crossing some painful difficulty spikes in later levels, succumbing to the everannoying ‘cheap death.’ Basically, your first play-through will be your worst, but that can be said for any game.

Depending on your sense of humour or nostalgia, you may find the dialogue amusing or embarrassing; the game really is geared towards younger kids.

Still, even if you’re not a big Sonic fan, the game is definitely worth a rental.

brunswickanarts

10 • Dec. 1, 2010 • Issue 13 • Volume 144

the bruns makes it rain.

thebruns.ca

TOM GREEN HITS THE PLAYHOUSE

Tom Green brought some of the old ‘tom foolery’ he’s known for to the Playhouse. His stand up act wasn’t too much of a divergence from his quirky humor on The Tom Green Show. His performance, which was roughly and hour and a half, can most easily be described as zany and a great time.The show was filled with audience interaction with Tom building of the audience’s comments. Mike Erb / The Brunswickan

kooking with karlie Karlie Hanoski

Tuscan White Bean Crostini

The holiday season brings with it a host of festive gatherings. As students, our holiday par-

ties tend to be potlucks which generally carry the same old appetizers. Chips and salsa anyone?

Why not try this inexpensive and easy appie? It’s guaranteed to impress your friends even if your ugly sweater doesn’t.

1 baguette, sliced cross-wise into approx. 2

cm thick rounds Extra virgin olive oil ½ white onion, diced 2-4 cloves of garlic, minced 1 pinch of lemon zest Dried basil and oregano to taste 1 can of white kidney beans, drained and rinsed Juice of half a lemon Salt and pepper Fresh cilantro for garnish

Move oven rack to top position and preheat oven to 400°F. Brush baguette slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Arrange on a cookie sheet and toast in oven for 5-10 minutes until crisp and golden. Set aside. Over medium heat gently sauté onions, garlic, dried herbs, salt and pepper in two tablespoons of olive oil.

Add lemon zest. Once onions are translucent add kidney beans and warm through. Add lemon juice. Using a potato masher or a fork, mash beans until a paste -like consistency is reached (I like it to be a little on the chunky side). Spoon bean mixture onto toast pieces and garnish with a sprig of cilantro. It can be served warm or room temperature. Happy holidays!

brunswickanarts

Dec. 1, 2010 • Issue 13 • Volume 144 • 11

Good presents can be hard to find

Alison Clack Arts Editor Sleigh bells ring, are you listening? In the air snow is glistening.

If the snowy weather over the past few weeks hasn’t clued you in to the fact, the holidays are on their way.

As if exams and f inals stresses weren’t enough, it’s now the time of year to pick out the perfect presents for your loved ones. A task that’s sometimes easier said than done.

If you’re having some worries about what to pick up this year than worry not, there are more than enough quirky and unique, little shops in Fredericton that you’ll be able to find the perfect gift for sure.

If you’re buying for a jewelleryloving lady in your life and don’t mind DIY gifts than head to the Garden of Beadin’ on York Street.

The garden has hundreds (thousands!) of different kinds of beads from Swarovski and Chinese crystal to semi-precious stones to porcelain and acrylic beads.

If you like doing something a little

A money-wise guide to gifts: $ = $10 – 20 $$ = $21 – 30 $$$ = $31 or more Garden of Beadin’ $: For one or two pairs of earrings or a single bracelet.

extra with your gifts then try making something out of the paper beads the store provides. The folded paper beads are made by orphans in Uganda and proceeds from their purchase go back to the children’s orphanage.

If you aren’t looking for DIY than you can also purchase jewellery made by the beaders at the store for something more one-of-a-kind than the average jewellery purchase.

If someone on your list enjoys a good brew or two head down to Picaroons new store on Queen Street and grab a growler as they are first introduced. The two-litre, refillable jugs are sure to make any beer lover’s holidays a little bit merrier.

Another DIY gift for those who like to play with paint would be the Clay Café. Head down to the store around the corner from the Snooty Fox and find a variety of unpainted and unfired pottery waiting for your creative input. From mugs to candle holders to statuettes, the store has dozens of different pottery styles to choose from.

It just takes a couple hours in the

store to paint your item, then you leave it behind with the capable workers to fire in the kiln and in a few short days you will have your very own, hand painted piece of pottery to give to the “#1 Dad” or another deserving recipient on your list.

If you have a coffee lover on your list pick them up some beans that were roasted in Fredericton. Jonnie Java Roasters can be found in Paradise Imports. The store, in addition to selling lovely jewellery and silk scarves (which could also be a great gift choice) has an assortment of different beans roasted on site. Choose your favourite blend (which they can grind for you on site) and you’ll have a delicious and aromatic gift for someone.

If your giftee likes worldly and cultural things then head to the aptly named Cultures Boutique.

The YMCA run store sells dozens of items from around the world. From miniature musical instruments from South America and Africa to Buddhist prayer flags from the Himalayas to glass blown candle holders, this store presents a world of choice for gifts.

Picaroons $ - $$: For your first growler, refills after that should only be about $9

Jonnie Java Roasters $: Prices vary depending on blend of coffee and weight.

Clay Café $ - $$: Depending on what you choose to paint prices can vary from $12 to about $20 or more.

Cultures Boutique $ - $$$: This store has an enormous assortment of items. Prices go anywhere from $2 for a pack of incense to $70 for a silk scarf.

This isn’t the same old song and dance Alison Clack Arts Editor Oh Christmas carols, so perfect for getting into the holiday spirit yet so aggravating at the same time.

Ruldoph and Frosty may have invaded every corridor of the shopping world but you don’t have to be completely cynical about Christmas carols.

Here is a collection of some of the best versions of some traditional carols as well as some different covers you may never have heard before.

Top Ten Christmas songs: 10. “O Come O Come Emmanuel” - Belle and Sebastian It’s a simple cover of the religious carol and yet its simplicity is what makes it perfect. The whole song is done in hushed tones and finishes with the beautiful vocal harmonies that mark many of their songs.

09. “All I Want For Christmas” – Mariah Carey.

Yeah, I know it is Mariah, but I can’t help it. This song is just too catchy not to give a few listens every Christmas.

Plus, I can’t help but envision those

cute little kids from the movie Love Actually.

08. “We Three Kings” – Wintersleep A little dark for a Christmas song but Wintersleep makes their version of this traditional religious carol their own.

If you like Wintersleep’s older sound you’ll probably love this version.

07. “Do You Hear What I Hear?”

– The Rankin Family This version of the song is a Maritime classic. It doesn’t seem like a real holiday kitchen party without the Rankins over the holidays.

06. “Santa Baby” – Madonna I’m not the biggest Madonna fan but I have to admit that her version of “Santa Baby” is one of the best.

05. “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas” – Bright Eyes This version is a little bit more melancholic than most versions but it almost feels like a lullaby. This is a good song to listen to if you want something peaceful to play late at night.

04. “Wonderful Christmas Time” – Paul McCartney This Christmas song has a bit of a

space-age, ’80s new wave feel but retains a classic status at the same time. A great song if you’re looking for something a little different.

03. “Let It Snow” – Dean Martin This is the perfect song to listen to while hoping for a class cancellation. I can’t help but have it run through my head when watching snow fall.

02. “White Christmas” – Bing Crosby What’s a top ten Christmas carol list without Bing Crosby? Crosby practically spells out holidays to many families every year. This classic is one of his best.

01. “Baby It’s Cold Outside” – Norah Jones and Willie Nelson AND Zooey Deschanel and Leon Redbone It’s a toss up between these two versions. The song is more of a winter song than a holiday song and despite this duet’s slightly creepy undertones I can not help but fall in love with the relaxed, jazzy style vocals. Both of these versions epitomize this warm and smooth style of singing. It’s the perfect song to play in the background while studying or wrapping some presents over the next couple of weeks.

Picking out presents while cramming for exams and finals can be stressful, but a little creativity can save you some worries (and your pocketbook) this season. Flickr CC

this week in arts.

Christmas Choice @ Gallery 78 Now – Dec. 19

This annual celebration will be featuring work by dozens of artists including: Monica Macdonald, James Wilson, Stephen Scott and Kristyn Cooper among others. Visit the gallery to see its Christmas celebration.

UNB Christmas Concert @ Memorial Hall Dec. 2, 7:30 p.m.

UNB Chorale and UNB Concert Band will be presenting their Annual Christmas Concert to the general public. Directed by Björn Runefors the tickets will be free for students with their student ID.

Christmas Cover Show @ The Capital Complex.

Dec. 16, 10 p.m.

The Capital Complex will be hosting their Christmas cover show featuring Oh No, Theodore! covering Arcade Fire, Westerberg Suicides covering Sloan and Red Hot Chili Peppers being covered by members of Gordon Gets Lost, Dub Antenna, Andy Brown Band.

Reggae Night Anniversary @ The Capital Complex Dec. 22

It’s the fifth anniversary of Reggae Night with Dub Antenna at Wilser’s Room.

The band has performed over 250 Reggae Nights at The Capital Complex but this night shouldn’t be one to miss.

David Myles Band @ The Market Dec. 31, 9 p.m.

Celebrate New Year’s Eve at the Boyce Farmer’s Market with David Myles Band with Ross Neilsen & The Sufferin’ Bastards. Tickets will be $25 in advance, $35 at the door.

brunswickansports

Dec. 1, 2010 • Issue 13 • Volume 144 • 12

sports@thebruns.ca

Men’s basketball limps into break

Sean O’Neill Staff Writer After six games, the UNB men’s basketball team is in a four-way tie for third place in the conference with six points.

This is good enough for a playoff position, but the team cannot afford to throw away home games, especially ones that are worth four points in the standings like the two loses it suffered on the weekend.

After coming home from a split against UPEI, the team that UNB is in competition for one of the final playoff spots, any points that could be taken from Dalhousie and Acadia would be seen as a bonus.

The V-Reds led the Tigers after the first quarter by two, but never came close after that. The Tigers are a team that doesn’t possess a lot of athleticism or sheer skill, but make up for it in being smart defensively and resourceful offensively.

They challenged shots, didn’t recklessly try to block shots and box out on defence and set good screens, hit open shots and made the extra pass well with the ball.

It didn’t help the Varsity Reds cause that Will McFee, the team’s all-action Aussie, played only 21 minutes, after committing his fourth foul on the first possession of the third quarter.

When he came back into the game in the fourth he led a mini-resurgence as he scored 14 points, dropped two dimes and took a couple of charges before he fouled out with four minutes left. Alex DesRoches was the only other Red to score in double figures, scoring 10.

The Tigers were as balanced as ever with five players scoring in doublefigures, with Juleous Grant and Sandy Veit leading the scoring with 12 a piece. Dalhousie won 70-54.

“It’s just one of those nights,” said head coach Brent Baker, “It’s just very frustrating. Danny Quirion just had a bad night, played very poorly for him, usually if Danny’s going, usually our bench steps up a little bit,” said Brent Baker. “We just we weren’t mentally ready to play tonight.”

Baker knew one of the keys to the game was going to be rebounding, knowing that Dal had a length advantage but expected the team to board

The Varsity Reds men’s basketball team were home on the weekend playing host to Dalhousie and Acadia.The V-Reds were slapped with reality as their 0-3-1 record had two more losses added to it over the weekend. Andrew Meade / The Brunswickan as a unit, but the Tigers out-rebounded UNB 40-24, including 14 offensive boards.

“We talked all week about the rebounding and stuff like that,” said Baker, “I knew it was going to be a problem, but I expected us to shoot the ball a hell of a lot better. That’s the biggest frustration for me right now.”

“We were complicating basketball, if we stick to fundamentals, not million

the panel voice your opinion

dollar passes and just keep it simple, we’re pretty good.”

The next night UNB dropped the game to Acadia, which looked competitive until the second half. Andrew Wright drained a three at the halftime buzzer to give the Reds a 38-36 lead at the break.

The wheels came off in the third as the Axemen went on a 15-6 run to start the quarter and won it 23-9 tak-

ing a 59-47 lead to the fourth.

Acadia’s zone coverage in the second half gave UNB fits, as the Reds only shot 29.4 per cent for the second half.

Antwann Parks and Dustin Anthony brought energy off the bench and trimmed the lead down to six, but Acadia turned it around after UNB’s starters were reinserted into the game as they ran away with the game 79-64.

Who was the biggest Varsity Reds surprise this semester?

Christopher Cameron

Colin McPhail

Josh Fleck

Erica Erman for the women. I mean a team that has been growing in recent years now has a young keeper that will be able to carry this team for years come, not to mention the impact this year. Colborne was expected to succeed at this level, so props to her, but no surprise. On the men’s side it is Will McFee. We was a wildcard coming in and has been huge in the men’s success basketball thus far.

While Claire Colborne has been the stand out, her play was expected. The stellar play Erica Erman, the women’s soccer team keeper, wasn’t. The young keeper gave her squad a chance every game. As for the men, Will McFee steals the show. The Aussie has swept the LB Gym by storm with his aggressive play.

It is only natural that the most Surprising Varsity Red comes from the most surprising team.

Claire Colborne of the women’s basketball team is leading the AUS in scoring, in her first season. She has the team ranked 6th nationally after missing the playoffs last season. McFee gets the nod from me for being the biggest surprise for the men. He has given a spark to a program that needs it.

Sports Editor

EIC

Sports Writer

The Reds “lost focus, composure,” according to McFee. “Just got away from playing our game, we went back into their game.”

With four minutes left in the game, Baker was ejected from the game by the referees. What was said is unknown and no comment was available from Baker.

The Varsity Reds are now off until Jan. 8-9 when they travel to Memorial for a doubleheader.

brought to you by:

Rob Williams Sports Writer

Claire Colbourne for the women’s sports and Alex Desroches for mens sports. Both have led to a surprising start for the basketball program at UNB. Colbourne has been dominating in the points department and Desroches continues to be a monster on the boards for UNB. Kudos to both!

brunswickansports

Dec. 1, 2010 • Issue 13 • Volume 144 • 13

Men’s volleyball set for second term

briefs Red Blazers kick of season with tournament victory The UNB Red Blazers women’s hockey team kicked off the season 5-0 at the Sainte Anne tournament in Church Point, Nova Scotia. The Red Blazers are currently sitting in top spot in the Maritime Intercollegiate Hockey League. UNB is first with 16 pts, Acadia in 2nd with 12, Cape Breaton 8pts, Holland College 2 pts, and Sainte Anne 1 pt.

Tremblay still waiting to break record Hunter Tremblay, forward for the UNB men’s hockey team is only one point from breaking the all-time points record, which he is currently tied with Rob Hennigar with.Tremblay was held off the scoresheet this past weekend against Dal and Acadia.

He will only have one game left this semester to break it before the break against UdeM Aigles Bleus Friday at the Aitken Centre.

TANNING SPECIALS

3 LOCATIONS The UNB men’s volleyball team is gearing up for the second half of the AUS season, where they know they will have to beat Dal in order to take the title from the Tigers. Christopher Cameron / The Brunswickan K. Bryannah James Staff Writer The UNB Men’s volleyball team has set themselves into a nice seated position in the conference, finishing their first semester with a bang.

“We just finished our first half with a 2-1 record at the second interlock tournament, so we beat Montreal 3-0, Sherbrook 3-1 and lost in the fifth set against the number two team in the country, Laval, so we’re defiantly on an upswing,” said head coach Dan McMorran.

The boys have had a good season thus far, especially in their exhibition game against Trinity Western, who is ranked top third in Canada.

“We lost 3-2 the first day and beat them 3-1 the second day. So we have had a couple of weeks in the row where we were ranked top ten in the number tenth spot.”

During the first set of the interlock match, fifth year Varsity Red Jacob Kilpatrick injured himself again, and until recently was unable to play until the end of the semester due to a dislocated shoulder.

As a sturdy middle-setter, the loss of

Kilpatrick for the first half the season wasn’t easy for the team, but the Reds have a deep bench this year and that more than makes up for it.

Kilpatrick’s middle man, Josh Sheehan is a valued player for the Reds.

Together the boys make up the “twin towers” of the court, both surpassing 6’7” in height.

“They’re as good a one-two combo punch in the CIS right now,” said McMorran.

Kyle Blanchard became the AUS conference leader in digs and digs per set in the league, giving the Reds an advantage on the court.

As well, Matt Sweet came back on the team after suffering an injury last year and with a new season and motivation he has added fuel to the powerhouse team.

“These are some of the key guys for us right now.”

UNB’s biggest competitor this season has been the Dalhousie Tigers, suffering two losses against them early on in the season. “[There are] a couple matches we would have liked to have had back, couple redo’s here this first half. We

went down to Dalhousie and they’re our main competition in the Atlantic conference, and we lost 3-2 and 3-1,” McMorran said.

However the Reds are hungry for the AUS title and believe that after the Christmas break they will have a chance to secure that position.

“Three seasons ago, we had a really good squad. We were pretty deep and we beat Dalhousie three times out of the six times we played them. We were as high as number seventh and eighth in the country that year and to be quite honest, I’ve always said that this year right here, I feel that we are an even deeper team and I think we have the ability to go further this year. So I guess farther for us right now would mean winning an Atlantic championship, so that’s what we’re trying to gear for.”

McMorran believes that with his players’ heighth and net-domination it will help them win the title they have been training for.

“In our success, in our wins this semester we have basically been dominate at the net. We block better then other teams right now.”

Men’s hockey drops two straight Christopher Cameron Sports Editor One of the top hockey programs in the country is now being put under the microscope after losing two straight games last weekend.

Losing only one game in the regular season, the Varsity Reds are now at four losses this season after suffering a 3-2 loss at Acadia on Friday and 6-3 at Dalhousie on Saturday.

“Friday’s night was a winnable game with a bounce here and a bounce there,” said UNB head coach Gardiner MacDougall. “Acadia is a team believed to be at the top of league and it has always been a rivalry and just one of those nights it didn’t go our way. It was one of those games with the parity in this league that is going to happen on a regular basis.”

Saturday night’s game was a tough loss to take as UNB dominated the possession and shots on goal categories.

“When you look at the game we controlled about 70 per cent of the territorial play and got great shots from good areas,” said MacDougall.

“Certainly our goaltending could’ve been better, but they’ve been outstanding for us so far. It is just one of those games you need to try to win 7-6 when that happens.”

The question, although going into

the weekend these two goaltenders had the best goals against average going into the weekend, is if there are any concerns surrounding the play of Travis Fullerton and Derek Yeomans. MacDougall quickly backed up the abilities of his goaltenders and their skill.

“They have been outstanding,” he said. “We’ve had a lot of good goalies come through here including these two, so going into the weekend they were playing outstanding for us. That was not the weekend they wanted, but sometimes that happens. They key for us is looking forward to Friday night at home.”

MacDougall said there is nothing to worry about after suffering two straight losses.

“When you summarize the weekend, obviously it wasn’t the result we were looking for,” said MacDougall. “This time of year we’re trying to continue to build a foundation that works for us and get a team identity. We’ve had success with that and it continues to be a process, but that being said we wanted a better result on the weekend.”

Injuries have played a significant role in the Varsity Reds having to find a new groove as the lineup they were looking at in August has changed slightly as the year has progressed with players like Dion

Campbell being in and out of the lineup, and Jeff Lee going down last weekend against STU, aside from Ben Shutron being injured prior to the regular season.

“It is certainly not the group we had put together in August, but that being said that is sometimes the way things work,” said MacDougall. “The good thing is that we’re having players that are having the chance to play on a regular basis and for the most part have responded very well. You take two top D-men out and three or four top forwards out it is a different group.”

“One thing you cannot control is injuries, so that is one thing we cannot worry about and need to move forward.”

Although these injuries have been cause for concern, nonetheless the team needs to over come this, especially with only a two-point lead over UPEI for first place in the AUS. “There are some players here where this weekend was the first time they lost two back-to-back games in the first time in their career at UNB so there is a little of a reality check,” said MacDougall.

“Some of that goes to the parity in the league and half to the fact we need to improve.”

This weekend the Varsity Reds will take on Moncton Friday night at home for elementary school night.

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14 • Dec. 1, 2010 • Issue 13 • Volume 144

The two sides of the Varsity Reds The Brunswickan discusses performance and business in an exclusive interivew with Kevin Dickie

Christopher Cameron Sports Editor In 2007 the UNB Varsity Reds were at the end of a strategic plan and had to move forward with a new plan. They downsized the program and came out with a three-year strategic plan that has been under scrutiny since.

Athletics Director Kevin Dickie knows this plan was not a popular decision at the time, but believes the program is looking brighter with the evidence being in that four teams were in the CIS top ten rankings two weeks ago.

Dickie pointed out that the decision to drop the number of teams down and focus on eight was a tough one on both sides of the issue, but it was well thought out with many reasons to keep the teams they did.

“When we went through the strategic planning process it was about a 13-month process and what happened is that through that time the economy went on a tremendous downturn and we had to adjust our sales and doing that meant that we ended up downsizing the complement of our program,” he said.

He continued saying that programs across the country facing the same issues as UNB did three years ago.

“For us, I hate to say it. I don’t want to say that we got ahead of the curve, but in some ways we probably did,” said Dickie. “Now you’re seeing that across the country, I wouldn’t call in a trend, but it has been something that other schools are having to do, done or looking at doing right throughout the country.”

“What ended up happening was through that strategic planning process when the economy changed we realized we couldn’t keep doing things the same way.”

Dickie alluded to the fact that it was about the survival of the program and ensuring it was successful, rather than mediocre.

“To me it was about survival,” he said. “We either accepted that we were going to be a mediocre to less than mediocre program or we realized that we needed to redistribute resources that we have both human and financial. It was a very difficult time for many people including me, but that is part of leadership is you need to be front and centre at times in some tough decisions

and I certainly was that.”

The question has arisen and was a point when the strategic plan came out that the men’s basketball team was struggling to succeed; as Dickie pointed out, has only won one AUS Championship in the history of the program. Although this is a fact he discussed how the teams were chosen.

“They were ranked objectively through independent people,” he said. “It really boiled down to almost zero biased budgeting. We just drew a line of what we could support, we took into consideration gender equity, which is foundational, and that is how we downsized the program. It was strategically done through the process.”

He continued, saying that there were changes that needed to be made in order for basketball to become a successful program.

“Specific to basketball we needed to change the culture. This is just a fact,” said Dickie. “We’ve only won one AUS championship in the whole history of our men’s basketball program. I mean just odds should get you one every eight years. Just with basketball, the culture needed to change and the mentality that we needed to bring in national and international people on top of keeping the best local and provincial kids here that want to play at UNB.” “Look at on the men’s basketball team we have a player from New York and two guys from Australia.

That to me that is so far out of the box we were in here four or five years ago.”

After looking at what they did to improve the program, he discussed where he wants the program to go now.

“What you are looking for is a consistency,” said Dickie. “Even though there are flows to what happens in the sports world, you want to get to a level where there is consistency and you know what that program or team is going to look like. Right now we have one that is the best is the country. We have others that are places of destination for student athletes, we have teams where the culture is changing and then we have teams that need to get better. At the end of the day we want more teams at the level of places of destination. That to me is the ultimate goal for all eight of our teams.”

Colin McPhail Editor-in-Chief As Kevin Dickie looks out his office window at the Aitken Centre ice, he’s staring into the harsh economic climate of Canadian university sports.

UNB’s Athletic Director is faced with two extreme tasks. To ensure the university’s varsity sports clubs perform at the highest level possible, but to ensure these clubs are financially viable.

The economic woes of recent years were not lost on the CIS and UNB was no exception. Dickie explained how the resources and capital the Athletic Department had only a few years ago is now worth roughly 45 per cent of what is was. As the new economic trends set in, a new approach was needed.

“I subscribe to the fact that you can do more with less,” said Dickie. “I’m fine with that. The flip side of that is that I believe for us to be sport for sport with the University of British Columbia… we don’t have those resources to be able to do that. So, we’re trying to find ways to grow and do what we need to do.”

He alludes to the Minnesota Twins and their success. The organization has nowhere near the resources of the New York Yankees, yet it remains a competitive baseball team, financially sustainable and attractive to big name ball players.

Dickie understands the restraints that limit the Varsity Reds and wishes to employ a Minnesota Twinstype of mentality when approaching the department.

In implementing that philosophy of doing more with less, Dickie realizes that maximizing his resources is essential to the process.

“It’s important to maximize those resources. I think the shift is going towards identifying which of your sports are marketable and which of your sports are you getting a return on your investment from.”

Identifying what is profitable and marketable is key in thriving as a cost-effective organization. Dickie’s words are echoed during discussion with his counterparts from across the country. As Canada’s university athletic departments struggle, as a whole, to find a solution, the initiative and progress of the individual departments is imperative to financial survival.

The Varsity Reds decided that a rebranding of the

organization was a necessary step to take in order to increase marketability as a whole. The process began with the introduction of a new logo with other additions such as website redesign and a foray into social media.

“The logo is only one piece. For us, it was to consolidate the program after the change we had made. I think the branding has played out real well here. I think we’re better identifiable then before.”

However, Dickie still isn’t satisfied with the engagement of students in campus. He is striving for the tremendous display of school spirit among the student body shown during NCAA sporting events. He recalls attending a football game at Notre Dame and wishing the he could recreate the same atmosphere at UNB. “That for me is the vision. I know instead of trying to find reasons why it can’t happen, I want to be a part of the process to find ways that it can. I think we have that ability here in Fredericton and on the UNB campus.”

With the construction of the Currie Center and refurbishment of Chapman Field and the Aitken University Centre, Dickie feels they have the facilities to accommodate his dream.

One aspect of the Currie Centre that is troubling many is its lack of a pool. Yet, Dickie reasserts that the LB Gym will still play an important in UNB’s and the Varsity Reds’ future.

“We’ve learned that the city of Fredericton has realized that we have an asset here. Rather than looking at a whole new building of a pool, let’s refurbish what we have here and that’s what going to happen moving forward.”

Another frequently asked question is whether or not some of the sports that were stripped of their varsity status will be reinducted into the program.

Unfortunately for the athletes and fans of those teams, the future will be a bleak one until a massive economic upturn occurs.

“The only way we could look at adding back to our program is if our existing eight teams were supported in the manner they need to be supported in. I’ll be honest you with – right up to our men’s hockey team, we’re having to do more with less.”

“I believe you can do more with less, but I also believe at the end of the day your resources financial and human are directly relative to the success that you have on the ice, on the pitch, on the court, and in the pool.”

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Behind the Bench: Jeff Speedy

K. Bryannah James Staff Writer Entering his fifth season as the Varsity Reds women’s basketball head coach, Jeff Speedy has brought the program to a high-level of play that is attributed both to his coaching ability and the high-level players he has on the roster.

Growing up in Florenceville, NB, Speedy went to University of Victoria to do his masters and be the assistant coach of the women’s basketball team there, where he learned a lot from the head coach there. He discusses the lessons learned out west as an assistant coach and how he ended up at UNB. Brunswickan: What were some of the main skills you learned from here her [Kathy Shields, member of the Canadian Basketball Hall of Fame] to help your coaching abilities?

Jeff Speedy: She’s just a technical genius, so I certainly learned a lot about the game. Things that I had no idea about, you know technical things to do on the court, and with individual players, and with the team and whatever. And she was the consummate professional, like she was just very, very classy, very humble, you know just a great person. So I learned a lot of the art of coaching from her as well in terms of how you deal with media officials, your peers, other coaches, those kinds of things.

B: What brought you to UNB to coach?

JS: Well I was at the University of Regina and we were one of the best women’s basketball programs in the country, we were ranked in the top five in Canada all the time, so it was a great job and a great place to work. But my wife is from Nova Scotia and I’m from here so we always wanted to come home, but we didn’t want to come home just to come home. For me I was thirty-four, thirty-five years old and coaching one of the best places in the country to coach. I didn’t want to give that up just to come home right. So there were only one or two jobs in Atlantic Canada that I would have wanted and would have left Regina for and UNB was one of them.

So it happened to open up after my fourth

year at Regina so we decided to impressively pursue it and it worked out.

B: What is one of your favourite things about coaching the Varsity Reds and university women’s basketball?

JS: Well, university women’s basketball in general. I think the relationship I develop with my student athletes. I have a daughter and a son, but it’s like having twelve or fourteen more daughters. I really consider them part of my family and you know if they fall down, bump their head, scrape their knee, have trouble with a boyfriend, have trouble in school, whatever it might be, I care and it bothers me and I want to help them. So I think getting close to those players and helping them realize their dreams as a student, as a person or as a basketball player is defiantly the best thing. I think UNB has a very rich tradition in women’s basketball, and in the last ten years we haven’t been as successful as we were in the eighties and nineties, so I think seeing the team improve and having a bit of a buzz about our program again is very exciting. So hopefully we will continue to get better and hopefully with the Currie Center that will create even more buzz and maybe people will be a bit more excited about then they have been in the last couple years, maybe as excited about it as they were in the late eighties and early nineties.

B: Where is the furthest in Canada you will recruit from?

JS: Each of the last two years, we’ve graduated a girl from B.C. Presently we have two girls from Calgary on our team, and had a girl from Regina on our team last year. So we recruit literally coast to coast. We’re recruiting you know B.C, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Quebec and Ontario and Maritime girls right now. So we’re recruiting from everywhere.

B: How do you think you will do this season?

JS: I think we’re one of the teams to beat. I don’t think we are the team to beat.

But I think we are in the mix with a few other teams, and if we keep getting better like we have been so far this year I think come the end of the season we will have a chance to compete for the league title for sure.

B: How would you like to develop the team further in the years to come?

JS: Well we’re ranked in the top ten in the country right now, and I think it’s the first time we’ve been ranked in the top in the country all year this year. The rankings have been coming out since late October, but before that the last time we were ranked was January of 2006, 2007 so a long time ago, four years ago. I think I want our program to get at the level where it’s ranked at the top five, top ten in the country all the time; every week, every year, no dips, no bad years, no rebuilding years, just that we are on that level and we stay on that level.

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Dec. 1, 2010 • Issue 13 • Volume 144 • 15

Winter activites that are fun and fit Brian Savoie Sports Reporter The winter tires are on our cars and some of us are getting them on our midsections.

Snow is on the sidewalks and the streets are slushed up. It must be winter. Some attribute the inevitable weight gain to the increased frequency of turkey dinners, stress from school, and less time spent at the gym. But the absence of the beach factor probably plays a role as well. I mean, who is walking around scantily clad during these months? The pressure to keep fit isn’t there; after all bulky winter jackets can hide so much.

To be fair it is more difficult to keep the pounds off. Warm rooms and hot chocolate is instantly gratifying while trudging through the snow is not. So this article is going to go through some fun winter activities that will keep you in somewhat good shape for the winter.

Of course we all know the benefits of the winter sports; hockey, skating, skiing and snowshoeing. They’re all great and in some cases they are even more challenging and burn more calories than other summer activities.

After all, when you do something like snowshoeing, you’re basically hiking through the woods with an additional 10 to 15 pounds of weight along with awkwardness strapped to your feet. It can actually burn upwards of 700 calories an hour.

The problem with winter sports is that unless you’re involved in them at a varsity or equivalent professional level, it is really hard to do them more than once or twice a week. This is not true with summer activities, even if you are terrible at basketball for instance; you can play it all day, every day if you wanted to between the courts at the LB Gym and the outdoor parks downtown.

But there are some winter activities that are

The winter can be a tough time for students looking to keep exercising. Brian Savoie discuss the common winter activites and how they are good for burning calories. Andrew Meade / The Brunswickan tons of fun and have some awesome health benefits that people sometimes forget.

Building a snowman is one. Who needs to be lonely again if they can just build sweet friends with edible noses? The perfect activity for the group of friends or the individual bored at home looking for something to do. A surprising 200 or more calories can be burned in the construction of your friend.

Sliding is another activity that is fun can help you burn calories as well. OK, who doesn’t love sliding? The best type of sliding is sketchy sliding; sitting on some sort of material that is in no way intended to be hurtled down a slope with an individual on it (like cafeteria trays or garbage bags).

Sliding is full of fun and good exercise.

Climbing that hill over and over again, building jumps, having slide battle going down a hill. What part of this sounds

boring to anyone? A whopping 500 to 700 calories can be burned while sliding, especially if you’re trying to get as many runs in before your mom calls you home.

Snowball fights are another that most people may not associate with burning calories. Yes, this is the grand daddy of winter activities. Depending on how hardcore you are it can have everything from strategy to betrayal and maybe even a bloody nose or three. Snowball fights burn in the area of 300 to 400 calories an hour. Just remember to keep it safe and avoid rocks and ice in the snowballs.

The winter can be a difficult time to maintain the workout schedule that you have been maintaining outside, especially for those who run outside, but doing some of these fun activities is something that can make being outside and doing physical activities fun.

16 • Dec. 1, 2010 • Issue 13 • Volume 144

Seasons Greetings

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