Issue 27, Vol 145, The Brunswickan

Page 1

arts | year in photos

sports | university cup format

the aquarium | see inside for the 2012 spoof

Volume 145 · April 4 · Issue 27, 2012

www.thebruns.ca

brunswickan canada’s oldest official student publication.

Student voice leaving Fredericton council table Alanah Duffy News Reporter Jordan Graham, who has long been considered a voice for students on Fredericton’s city council, will not seek re-election in May. Graham was elected to council in May 2008, when he was only 21-yearsold. He said he considers his two biggest accomplishments in the past four years to be contributing heavily to the dialogue of municipal spending and seeing a shift in the activities on College Hill. “It’s a much more peaceful and quiet place than it was prior to coming into it. There’s a stronger sense of community and overall, people generally feel safer here and it’s a much more pleasant place to live,” Graham told The Brunswickan. Graham, who once served as vicepresident external of the University of New Brunswick Student Union, was elected to council as a student, grabbing just over 50 per cent of the vote in the last municipal election. He said one thing that motivated him to run for council was the tension between students and other residents of College Hill.

SEE GRAHAM PAGE 3

Jordan Graham is not seeking re-election. Tim Lingley / The Brunswickan

Tuition hike expected Hilary Paige Smith News Editor

Eddy Campbell expects tuition will be raised. Andrew Meade / The Brunswickan

Though post-secondar y budget details are still up in the air, Eddy Campbell said a tuition hike is expected. “The government, I believe, is of the view that students need to carry part of the freight in terms of the increase in our expenses,” the university president said on Monday. Though the provincial budget dropped on Mar. 27, the post-secondary education budget had yet to be revealed as of press time on Monday. The government did announce they will be freezing ancillary fees at New Brunswick universities. Campbell said he was surprised the university wasn’t included as part of the budget process. His ex-

pectations are that the budget will be similar to last year’s. Last year, the government lifted the tuition freeze and raised tuition by $200. They also reinstated parental contributions for student loans, meaning students are forced to factor their parent’s earnings into their student loan application. “The minister is going to make an announcement about that in the legislature I hope sooner rather than later. Some things seem to have changed since last year, but that doesn’t make me feel all that nervous,” Campbell said. Campbell said it’s too early to tell how much of a jump in tuition is expected, but they haven’t received any signals that the budget will be all that different from last year’s. The province’s bleak f inancial

situation has a lot to do with it. As of the most recent budget, NB’s deficit was $183 million. New Brunswick students also pay the highest tuition in the country. Ontario, formerly in first place, recently introduced a tax credit for students. “The diff iculty we have is the financial situation of the province is really not good… I think they are going to be looking more for savings than stimulus funding,” Campbell said, when asked if the province would be providing some infrastructure funding to universities. He was optimistic about the $2 million set aside for innovation. UNB has been focusing their energy on innovation recently, especially with the introduction of the PondDesphande Centre. The centre will focus on entrepreneurship and ideas.


brunswickannews

2 • Apr. 4, 2012 • Issue 27 • Volume 145

Sodexo contract up in 2013; Incoming UNBSU to look at options Cherise Letson The Brunswickan The Student Union Building might see some big changes next year. At the last council meeting of the year on Sunday, UNBSU president Jordan Thompson introduced a discussion to get councillor’s ideas on how the SUB could generate more revenue. According to Thompson, the SUB costs about $700,000 to run, but only brings in $300,000 in revenue. With contract negotiations with SUB food provider Sodexo happening in 2013, councillors brought up different ideas on directions the SUB could take. Some councillors mentioned the idea of leaving Sodexo all together and giving the space to other companies for a higher rent or percentage of their sales. “In all honesty, a lot of companies would kill to be in this building, to be around students, to be able to provide their services,” said Andrew Martel, vice-president of finance and operations and incoming president. Some councillors also expressed how they would like to see the SUB completely run by the Student Union. Arts representative Cody Jack said it’s not only an issue of rent, but an issue of service quality as well. “The SUB building, in some ways, can’t serve students because of this

existing agreement... So for me, it’s rent as well as services. The SUB Board is tied to agreements taken by the university and I’m pretty sure, the board of governors. But I believe that the Student Union Building should be kind of a special sovereign sphere where we’re allowed to control our own space,” Jack said. However, there are possible problems if they want to leave Sodexo. The company is not only the provider for food at the SUB, it’s also the provider of food for residence meal plans. It’s an idea council recognized as being a long-term goal that will require research and planning ahead. “In the long-term, I think this is a great idea,” said law representative Oliver Gorman-Asal. “I think it will be really good to get rid of this monopoly and be able to start making money for the SUB. It’s something we should look into and really do some research.” Ideas to generate revenue for the short-term included selling advertising in the SUB. Another was a SUB fee, an option that councillors acknowledge would be very unpopular. However, councillor Jack said if the majority of student’s understood the importance of the SUB, they might be in favour of having one. “If we were to explain to students, the preservation of the SUB, and if students, which I believe they do,

Council is doing a survey for students on their use of the SUB. Elizabeth Chiang / The Brunswickan see the value in this building... a SUB fee, even something of a very small amount, could be beneficial,” Jack said. President Jordan Thompson said if a fee was to become an option, that it would be implemented through

a referendum of the student body. At the end of the evening council passed a motion for next year’s executives to review possible new options for the SUB over the summer to present to next year’s council. This includes looking into issues

such as rent and impact on residence life. Next year’s executives must also not treat the SUB as an “academic building” and have students involved in the discussion.

UNB replaces 23 fountains this year Bronté James The Brunswickan

Andrew Meade / The Brunswickan

The University of New Brunswick has installed 23 new water fountains containing filtration systems after elevated lead levels were found in the university’s water earlier this year. “Additional fountains are to be installed as soon as there is an opportunity to co-ordinate with the building and academic schedule,” says UNB’s senior manager of communications Greg Carrier. All cold-water kitchen taps exceeding recommended lead levels have also been replaced. More than 550 water fountains and cold-water taps on campus have been tested with more than 90 showing lead levels above Health Canada standards

of 10 micrograms of lead per litre (.0001 milligrams). Kierstead Hall, MacLaggan Hall, Tilley Hall, the South Gym, and the Harriet Irving Library have seen the most fountain replacements, with exceeding lead levels with a range of 12.7 mcg/L and as high as 390.0 mcg/L. Not following the traditional Health Canada “5-minute flush test,” UNB is continuing to base the quality of the drinking water on first-grab results. “According to the Guidelines for Canadian Drinking Water Quality, samples are to be taken after running taps for five minutes,” Carrier says. “We recognize that sometimes students, faculty and staff drink the water on campus first thing in the morning without running the taps, so that is when and how we collected our

samples.” With more than 90 taps and fountains on campus exceeding the recommended levels after first-grab tests, and only two showing higher levels after the five-minute flush test, UNB is basing its decisions on first-grab testing. Costing roughly $5,000 to replace each fountain, UNB has a small budget for replacements, but is looking for additional funding for the extra cost. “There is a small amount of funding that was already established for that (hydration unit initiative), but this certainly is a much bigger initiative,” said Barb Nicholson, associate vice-president of capital planning and property development in an earlier interview with The Brunswickan. St. Thomas University and nine other schools in the Fredericton district have also experienced problems with lead levels in the drinking water. Measurements were taken to test water levels after news of UNB’s water fountains became public. With the new water fountains and cold-water taps in place, UNB reassured members of the community they will continue regular testing on the fountains to ensure levels never exceed Health Canada standards.

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brunswickannews

Apr. 4, 2012 • Issue 27 • Volume 145 • 3

Getting into nature

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Alanah Duffy News Reporter Get into the nature. That’s the mantra of the New Brunswick Youth in Nature Campaign, a group of six Renaissance College students who are trying to get more people outside. The group was formed in September 2011 in partnership with the Nature Trust of New Brunswick. The Renaissance College students got involved as part of a community problem-solving course. The Nature Trust of New Brunswick, which is based in Fredericton, has 33 nature preserves across the province. These sites are ecologically sensitive areas put aside for preservation. People can go and visit these sites, which encompass about 5,000 acres of land across the province. The Youth in Nature campaign was established to encourage youth aged 15-35 to access these preserves and spend more time outdoors. “The Nature Trust of New Brunswick has a Board of Directors, but most of them are not very young anymore,” said Bethany Young, one of the students involved. “They’re trying to engage more young people so that it will last longer and so we can get people interested in what they’re doing.” Young and her classmates have developed a strategy to try to bring youth out to the natural reserves. They have pinpointed three main ways to engage youth: visual art, music, and skill-development.

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Bethany Young immersed in nature. Submitted The group offers musicians a chance to come out to one of the nature preserves and have a live recording of music done. Visual artists will give workshops on one of the nature trust sites. Young said that the group has already held a visual art workshop, which attracted 21 participants. The skill development workshops give participants the chance to learn different types of skills and build on leadership skills. “We’re trying to get people interested in going out to these places in ways that they’re already interested in,” Young said of the group’s strategy. Young said the group wants to see people outdoors and experiencing nature. She said the group doesn’t provide lectures or teach about environmentalism. “We’re just kind of trying to get people interested in nature, not necessarily teach them. We just want to light a spark to make them interested in these places,” she said. Young said that one of the most challenging things about working on the

campaign was working with a non-governmental organization. “They don’t have money – they have to constantly be searching for different ways to get funds, but they do awesome things,” she said. Upcoming events have been planned for April, May, and June, which can be found on the group’s website: http:// www.nbync.ca. Though all six of the Renaissance College students are graduating this year, Young hopes they can stay involved with the campaign and help with upcoming events. She said a Master’s student will be working with the Nature Trust of New Brunswick this summer to keep the campaign going. “The most important thing about this campaign is to get people outside,” Young said. “It keeps them healthy and it keeps them happy, and I think that’s really important.”

“I’m proud of what I accomplished” - Graham FROM GRAHAM PAGE 1 “The year that I was running in the election, the atmosphere was terrible. The tension between long-term residents and students was palpable and the amount of community-eroding activity was just dominating the atmosphere,” he said. “I viewed the problem differently than the incumbent councillor did. There was a lot of antagonism towards students, and the problem was predominantly tagged on students, and I didn’t think that was appropriate.” After being elected, Graham began developing the College Hill Action Plan, which was first established in early 2008 to improve the relationship between students and long-term residents of the area. An executive summary of the plan, started by the Mayor’s Working Group,

identifies the need for a long-term initiative to create a better living environment for all people living in the area. “The College Hill Action Plan was the by-product of a community based problem-solving model. We brought together all sorts of stakeholders – landlords, student groups, police, engineers, city council, community representatives – all kinds of different people together,” Graham said. “Over the course of a few months, we developed an action plan and aggressively tacked it. The result, I think, is a much safer and more pleasant College Hill that’s welcoming for all people, no matter what your professional circumstance and background.” Graham decided not to run again in the May 14 election due to personal circumstances. After getting married in October 2010, he said he wants to have the opportunity for him and his

wife to be more mobile. Graham has accepted a position as national spokesperson with Ethical Oil, for which he will move to Ottawa this summer. He said the organization presents a holistic approach to why Canada should produce its own oil, as opposed to importing it. However, the Woodstock native, who will receive his degree from UNB this year, said he has plans to return to the River Valley eventually, saying: “this place is too great not to live here.” Graham said that his time spent on council was rewarding and he is appreciative of the experience. “I’m proud of what I’ve accomplished – I know I haven’t been perfect in everything, but it’s been highly rewarding to have an impact in people’s day-to-day lives here in the city, and I hope people will reflect positively on my service as a councillor,” he said.

this week in brunswickannews One card system Next year, UNB will be switching to a One Card system for identification cards. This means identification cards will work at places like the cafeteria, the bookstore, residence outside doors, and local businesses. Plans are still in the works for what exactly this service will include. Program coordinator Mital Patel recently made a presentation to the UNB Student Union Building board and the idea was well-received. UNB Information Technology Services will also be leasing vacant space in the SUB for students with questions about their cards.

Exam study space The UNBSU will be offering additional study space during the exam period for students. The space will be located in SUB 103 from 8:30 a.m. to 1 a.m. every day and from 8:30 a.m. to 12 a.m. on Sundays. Students will be able to study quietly here throughout the exam period.

SUB survey underway The SUB board of directors is soliciting feedback from students about the Student Union Building. The feedback will allow the board to look at the SUB and what can be changed to keep the building in line with student needs. Find the survey online at www.unbsu.ca.


brunswickanopinion

Apr. 4, 2012 • Issue 27 • Volume 145 • 4

editor@thebruns.ca

The changing of the guard

the brunswickan

Editorial Board

Editor-in-Chief • Chris Cameron Managing • Liam Guitard News • Hilary Paige Smith Arts • Alex Kress Sports • Bryannah James Photo • Andrew Meade Copy • Kathleen MacDougall Production • Sandy Chase Online • James Waters Staff Advertising Sales Rep • Bill Traer Delivery • Dan Gallagher Contributors Cherise Letson, Josh Fleck, Haley Ryan, Sean O’Neill, Alanah Duffy, Nick Murray, Tova Payne, Colin McPhail, Jennifer Bishop, Sarah Vannier, Bronté James, Damira Davletyarova, Amy MacKenzie, Luke Perrin, Lee Thomas, Susanna Chow, Ben Jacobs, Sarah Cambell, Brandon Hicks, Heather Uhl, Adam Melanson, Derek Ness, Lindsey Edney, Patrick McCullough, Leonardo Camejo, Tim Lingley

Andrew Meade / The Brunswickan

In with the new

Sandy Chase

Everyone has a box in which they are comfortable. I say, every so often, you should take a running jump and see where you land. I can’t remember when I first heard this, but I do know that my time at UNB has been filled with running jumps. I’ve been a member of the varsity swim team for four years until my retirement this year, lived in two different residences (McLeod and Lady Beaverbrook) on campus and I will be living in a third next year as a proctor in Maggie Jean Chestnut house. When I first started volunteering at the Brunswickan in 2008 as a photographer, I never would have expected to end up in the position of Editor-in-Chief. My strengths have always been in the more visual aspects, and those have been reflected in my past jobs as the online and the production editor, but I also dabbled in writing for the News and Sports sections from time to time. This year, with the high turnover of graduating editors, I considered applying for the position, and to make a long story short, here I am. Regardless of how next

year goes, I know it’ll be a great learning experience. Initially I was nervous when I got the position, but now that I’ve met with next year’s staff, I can say I am very excited. The staff working here next year are an extremely talented group of individuals, and I hope you will come to agree with me. Next year I hope to push the Brunswickan to a higher level of student involvement on campus, with better integration of social media, more videos and a stronger opinions section. If you agree, or if you disagree, let me know. This is your paper and you should have a say in its future. If you disagree with something we publish, let us know as you are surely not the only person who does. A big thanks goes out to all the outgoing editors. Thank you for all you’ve done for this paper. Thanks for everything you’ve taught me. Thanks for being friends and family over the last (for some) four years. We’ll miss you next year. As of May 1, I can be reached at editor@thebruns.ca and I welcome any comments, thoughts or questions you might have, and feel free to say hi any time if you see me on campus. Sandy Chase is the incoming Editorin-Chief of the Brunswickan and can be reached at editor@thebruns.ca after May 1 or @alexanderchase on twitter at any time.

letters to the editor tell us what you think Be... suckered in Dear Editor, As Elizabeth Creelman notes in her Brunswickan review of a new “documentary” entitled “Be... Without Water”, there are problems with the drinking water in Penobsquis, New Brunswick, and hydrofracking has been touted as the cause. Unfortunately, Elizabeth is very uncritical of this film and appears to have been completely suckered in by its claims, and by the mob. The situation is starting to resemble a modern-day Salem Witch Trial. But in this case, the suspect that has already been tried, convicted, and now faces the death penalty in the court of local public opinion, is hydrofracking. Except, there are a few

simple facts that are being ignored in the “documentary” which make hydrofracking a highly unlikely culprit. 1). There hasn’t been any hydrofracking for shale gas within 20km of Penobsquis! 2). The only fracking that has been done in the area is at the nearby naturalgas field of McCully, at over 2 km depth, and beneath rocks that cannot under any of nature’s laws propagate open fractures and fracking fluids up toward the residents’ well fields! 3). The McCully fracking uses zero water, so it is not “hydro-”fracking! And note, none of the above says that the natural-gas industry is always innocent. The rightly upset residents of Penobsquis are desperate to find the cause of their water problems but, before the hydrofracking

a talented newsroom with editors that are going onto bigger and better things both in and out of the journalism world next year. Christopher With that I must say thank you to all those involved this year, you made this Cameron publication one of the best in the nation. But that is all in the past now. Next year You try to be tough. the Brunswickan will have Sandy Chase in You try to hold back the emotions, but the big chair and I’m confident he will do you know parting ways with these people so much for the paper. is going to be tough. He has many ideas on what he hopes to You break down (well, not publicly). do with the paper and has the team to do We’re more than friends; we’re family. so. They are all very talented and passionate If there is one group of women and men people. They will all strive to be the best that has helped me get to where I am today, they can be to provide the best coverage of it is those involved with the Brunswickan, what is dearest to UNB and the surroundand I don’t just mean the staff. It is the ing community. volunteers, the people I’ve interviewed, That does not mean I will not be “checkthose at conferences I’ve attended, and so ing in on them.” I will have a hard time, like many more people. other former editors-in-chief, cutting myself Because of them, it physically hurts to off cold turkey. leave this paper after beginning four years Sandy will no doubt receive the odd ago when I wrote my first sports story for message from me discussing the paper, the Bruns. but I hope he understands I just can’t let I don’t think I can fully explain it. There go that quickly. has been a part of me that has been filled by I wish all graduating Brunsies (Hilthis publication and it feels like I’m leaving ary, Bryannah, Alex, Andrew, Kathleen, a relationship that I never wanted to leave. Alanah, and Haley) the best of luck in It’s one of those awkward situations in life. the future. You know you need to move on, but And to Liam Guitard, my partner-inwhen you actually sit down to make that crime, my friend, the managing editor and decision, or realize there is no other option, as some in the office liked to call “my better it almost paralyzes you. You don’t know half,” best of luck next year. You did a great what to do. job in your first year this year. It’s avoiding thinking about it that gets I know Sandy won’t be as good to look you to the end. at across your desk, but hey, you can creep “There’s a few more issues left, this year my Facebook. won’t end,” went through my head mulIn closing, thank you UNB, Frederictiple times this year. Well there’s no more ton, and Brunsies. It’s been a slice. issues left now. Christopher Cameron is the outgoing Volume 145 is complete. Editor-in-Chief of the Brunswickan and This year has been one of the most can be reached at editor@thebruns.ca challenging of my life so far and I would until May 1. After that he can be reached not trade it for the world. I worked in such at chris.t.cameron@gmail.com.

Out with the old

issue came to the forefront, they were blaming geophysical (seismic) surveys in the area and the nearby potash mine too. But many of the residents are also blind to the fact that their issues started shortly after the nearby four-lane TransCanada highway was excavated and built (to relieve traffic congestion in their area), possibly altering water flow. Similarly, the residents do not want to consider that the cause might be their lovely land that they have always lived on has simply failed them. The area is dotted with sinkholes that have formed by the collapse of underground caves. Caves collapse all the time, but it only requires one such collapse to suddenly alter the flow of groundwater in an area. Which of these alternative possibilities, or maybe a combination of a couple of them, or some other factor, is the true cause of the water problems, remains uncertain. On the other hand, the “documentary” seems to be a good study of the public hys-

teria that can be generated out of failure to consult (or listen to) professional engineers and geoscientists about relevant facts, the misappropriation of facts irrelevant to the case at hand, rumour, and quite probably direct lies to the locals, possibly circulated by extremists with a political agenda or competing big businesses using a small province as their battleground. `The problem is that such hysteria, which Elizabeth is effectively promoting, if left unchecked, may well mean that the fragile economic well-being of the province is further handicapped. Natural resources may not be allowed to be developed, meaning fewer jobs, and less government revenues to pay for education and health spending, the latter that might otherwise be needed to help control the high blood pressure of the self-proclaimed “Raging Grannies” highlighted in the film. Dave Keighley PGeo

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 145th 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. 21 Pacey Drive, SUB Suite 35 Fredericton, NB, E3B 5A3 main office • (506) 447-3388 advertising • (506) 452-6099 fax • (506) 453-5073 e-mail • editor@thebruns.ca twitter • @Brunswickan www.thebruns.ca


brunswickanopinion

Apr. 4, 2012 • Issue 27 • Volume 145 • 5

Love letter to the Brunswickan Hilary Paige Smith News Editor I did my first interview ever for the Brunswickan with John McLaughlin, former university president. I was wearing my puffy housecoat. Good thing it was over the phone. I was only 18-years-old and had yet to set foot in a university classroom. I had to ask him what the role of a vice-president academic was and he answered graciously. He probably heard my voice quivering over the line. Four years have passed since then. So have dozens of interviews with senior administration members, staffers, professors, student politicians, and students (the most important people at a university). My voice doesn’t quiver anymore. I spent my first two years as a news reporter, my last two as news editor. I had my 100th issue of the paper early last month and I didn’t even realize until weeks later. I have bylines in the hundreds and more

memories than I can count. Some of the best moments of my university experience were spent working in the student press. The Bruns is where I met my best friends. Our office was my escape from the hallways and social spaces of campus life, which often feel too crowded for a real conversation. It’s also where I fell in love with news. The adrenaline rush of a breaking story. The satisfaction of a well-researched, in-depth piece. Working for the Brunswickan has also given me some special insight into campus issues. Student engagement is one. There have been many times I’ve walked out into the quad, the cafeteria, the library and even academic buildings to try and interview students about fairly general issues. I was often shocked at how little many students cared about what was going on around them. Also, students don’t vote. The last UNBSU election only saw 22 per cent turnout, which was actually

an improvement over the year prior. Provincial and federal elections also see a dismal turnout among the 18 to 24 group, which students often fall under. In the 2008 federal election, just 40 per cent of that age group filled out a ballot. Because a lot of students don’t vote and aren’t very engaged in general, they don’t get what they want out of their university and their government. That’s why tuition and fees continue to rise, but the quality of education doesn’t get any better. This, above all things, has infuriated me as a student journalist. Tuition at UNB during the 2004-2005 school year was $4,770, plus fees. Tuition at UNB this year was $5,682, not including fees. That’s almost a $1,000 jump in just seven years. Including fees, UNB students paid a whopping $6,566. UNB has also lost 55 full-time equivalent faculty members in the past six years, in addition to cutting $18 million in expenses. It also needs $110 million in de-

Congratulations to the new staff for the 2012-2013 publishing year. Liam Guitard - Managing Editor Cherise Letson - News Editor Lee Thomas - Arts Editor Josh Fleck - Sports Editor Liz Chiang - Photo Editor Sarah Campbell - Online Editor

Ryan Baxter - Opinions Editor Alex Walsh - Production Editor Hansika Gunaratne - Copy Editor Heather Uhl - News Reporter Eilzabeth Creelman - Arts Reporter

ferred maintenance to fix its crumbling infrastructure. Yet, tuition continues to get higher. So high, that New Brunswick students now pay the highest tuition in Canada. The blame doesn’t just fall on disengaged students. Students don’t want to pay more for school. Just ask the thousands of recent graduates across Canada who are struggling to find meaningful employment while their student loans come due. Universities have to remember that students are the largest stakeholders in the university environment. Not faculty. Not staff. Not administration. Universities are about students. I’ve t ried to st ress t h is idea throughout my time as news editor. The Brunswickan has always been by students and for students. We represent student interests and we care about students. The student press is a vital part of the campus environment and I’ve truly loved every minute spent working on this campus.

You can’t see me writing this, but I’m on my k nees, begging students to get involved with the Brunswickan. Whether you like to write, take photos or just rant – get involved. When a reporter walks up to you and asks your opinion, share it. You’ll make their day. Talking to strangers all day takes guts and this group of Brunsies are among the gutsiest people I know. Even if writing isn’t your thing, you’ll get to meet some pretty amazing people who value good jokes and afternoons at the pub. The Brunswickan has helped me get every job I’ve been hired for, in addition to getting into graduate school. The friends I’ve made will stay with me my entire life. It’s difficult to leave – heartbreaking even. This is a four-year relationship coming to an end. There are stories I still wish I’d done. But I’m leaving this paper in very capable hands. Thanks Brunswickan, for absolutely everything.

Clarification to “The Currie fee is a necessity says university president” published Mar. 28, 2012 798 community members from the surrounding area use the Currie Center. This number is not reflective of the number of students who visit the facility. The Brunswickan apologizes for any confusion.


brunswickanarts arts@thebruns.ca

a year in

arts WhiteFeather Hunter, executive director of The Charlotte Street Arts Centre, is continuously working to improve the arts community. Tim Lingley / The Brunswickan

Apr. 4, 2012 • Issue 27 • Volume 145 • 6

...creativity in colour

Jessica Kelly sells her pottery at the Boyce Farmers Market each Saturday. Andrew Meade / The Brunswickan

Susan Dickeson paints on a canvas she found in the garbage. Andrew Meade / The Brunswickan

Buddy Guy plays a killer last-minute fill-in for Gregg Allman. Andrew Meade / The Brunswickan

The Red N’ Black Revue proves to be more of a rainbow. Tim Lingley / The Brunswickan

Rich Aucoin plays a memorable all-ages show at the Harvest Jazz & Blues Festival. Luke Perrin / The Brunswickan


brunswickanarts

Apr. 4, 2012 • Issue 27 • Volume 145 • 7

The Backstreet backstory Haley Ryan Arts Reporter There’s a time machine on Queen Street. Jimi Hendrix and Led Zeppelin stare at you from the walls, and you spot a tiny, old-fashioned radio on one counter. Turn around, and you can see Adele sitting next to Metric. It’s a lot of decades for one little room. These musicians may just be on posters and vinyl covers, but Backstreet Records still takes you to any era you want to go. Since the shop first opened in 1988, it’s been providing the city with both independent and mainstream records, as well as a personal connection you won’t find in bigger chain-stores. Eric Hill, manager of the Fredericton location for 15 years, said he originally started working the record store when he was going to UNB, and took it over when the former manager moved away. “I kind of considered it the inbetween job when I was in school and then move onto something else, but then I fell into it and liked it,” he said behind the store counter, the bare CDs on the walls catching flashes of sunlight. “It takes a certain amount of passion and interest, or maybe fear of anything else to keep you interested,” Hill said, laughing. Backstreet Records originated

in Saint John, where Gordie Tufts opened the business in 1980 that’s still going strong today. “The whole idea was to sell records cheaper than a chain store,” Tufts said. “Even when the media was saying CDs were the only way to go, our vinyl sales never decreased.” In the early years of this city’s branch, Hill said the music they brought was pretty similar to the Saint John stock. However, as independent music labels started to pop up and become more successful, he decided to bring in music from those areas and sell good albums that “fell through the cracks” of larger stores. Although there was a long stretch when Backstreet was primarily a CD store, Hill said within the last few years things have flipped, and about 60 to 70 per cent of their stock is vinyl records. With all of the fear that mp3s and iTunes have caused little stores like this one, Hill is confident the store’s fan base and niche reputation in Fredericton can keep the business going. “There’s always that notion that digital music will kill off the solid form. I don’t see it ever really fully happening,” Hill said. “I still like going over to my record shelf and seeing the history of what I’ve been buying and what I’ve been into, hanging on to it ... [For people] it’s a desire to build a collection, to have something tangible in their

Eric Hill, manager of Fredericton’s Backstreet Records, sells music that falls through the cracks. Andrew Meade / The Brunswickan homes.” Looking at all the colourful records, posters and DVDs that fill the store, it’s easy to see how the racks truly offer something for everyone. From local bands to classic rock, from experimental folk to hip hop, Hill said he has three things he thinks about when looking for music to bring in: no-brainers that will always sell (like The Beatles), a new band or album that has some buzz around it, and music he personally loves and wants to introduce

to people. “Stuff I’ve been trying to get a handle on lately harkens back to late 80s, early 90s, like My Bloody Valentine,” Hill said after pausing to help customers. “So you have groups now ... like M83, or Washed Out or Gold Bears that are doing stuff that sort of sounds like that that kind of pretty, melodic but still sort of dense, cloudy kind of sound.” Hill, who also has a Masters degree from UNB in creative writing, said he’s been offered other jobs over

the years but realized that with the record store, he has the freedom to do whatever he wants. “I love music so it’s pleasurable to listen to it all day long. I like to find out about new stuff, I like doing research ... but I also like talking to people and getting their input on things,” Hill said. “That all feeds into what I’m good at.” On Apr. 21 drop into Backstreet Records across from City Hall for national Record Store Day to get special deals and see live bands perform.

building. The arts centre benefits significantly from partnerships with local businesses like Picaroons and Isaac’s Way. The centre’s largest single donation to date, $10,000, was given by a company in Ontario that wishes to remain anonymous. Without it, the centre would have had to cancel its ArtReach programming, which is developed for individuals who wouldn’t have access to arts-based workshops otherwise. “Without sponsorship, we have to raise rents. Artists suffer. For example, a dance teacher has to pay rent in a building. If rent is raised, she’ll have to charge more for classes. If students can’t afford the classes, they can’t dance anymore. It’s a trickle down effect,” Hunter said. Hu nter believes t hat despite others’ misgivings about any interaction with business and the arts, there isn’t an ideological clash worth worrying about. In this economic landscape, businesses are recognizing they need to think outside the confines of how business has always been operated. “Businesses are saying we need innovation, and artists are people who are practicing innovation and critical thinking everyday. It’s a transferrable skill,” Hunter said. She outlined part of the problem as a narrow attitude about what art means; many think of it only in terms of home décor, she said. There’s potential for profitable relationships, although, Hunter said she didn’t always hold that sentiment. When she first joined the board of Gallery Connexion in 2004, she strongly disagreed with corporate sponsorship because she felt it would compromise artistic integrity. But if both sides are aware of what they’re getting into, it’s just an opportunity to benefit. Angela Black is an artist, small business owner, and self-described “advocate of the arts community” who shares Hunter’s perspective.

She views the relationship between businesses and artists as beneficial to both sides. “I think it’s important for collaboration everywhere in this day and age, and I think more and more people are moving towards that sort of business collaboration,” she said. Black, who teaches in the ArtReach program at the Charlotte Street Arts Centre as well as the College of Extended Learning at UNB, said that relationships with local businesses are “essential”, as alternative funding opportunities grow increasingly scarce. “I mean, the Charlotte Street Art Centre is an incredible resource here in Fredericton. It has multiple artsbased business relationships. It provides programming in the community and in-house... but it’s constantly looking for funding, because of the nature of its programs. And with the last federal election, it’s pretty clear that arts-based programming is being cut all the time.” Maintaining artistic integrity in the context of corporate sponsorship, Black said, is not a conflict unique to business relationships. Like in any professional partnership, she said, it’s simply a matter of negotiation. “Anytime, anywhere, you always run into needing to please your partners. I truly feel there are some corporations that really entrust their artists with independence.” Should a conflict of interest arise between an artist and their business partner or corporate sponsor, “that’s the time for the individual to say ‘No, this goes against my values’,” Black said. As the owner of an independent business, Random Paper and Fabric, Black said she is motivated to form business-artist relationships because “art is the universal language.” “I feel that art is essential in the community, because everyone can speak to that.”

Arts and business:

Should they be separate like church and state? WhiteFeather Hunter and others say ‘no’

The Charlotte Street Arts Centre relies on numerous business relationships and corporate sponsors to help fund their arts programs. Tim Lingley / The Brunswickan Alex Kress and Lee Thomas The Brunswickan If Rudyard K ipling was around today, he might’ve said, “art is art, and business is business, and never the twain shall meet.” But, he’s not, and that’s exactly what’s happening. There are signs the line dividing the arts and business realms has become blurred, particularly in this time of continued economic recession. Arts funding has been repeatedly slashed, and many businesses are struggling with similar cutbacks. WhiteFeather Hunter, executive director of the Charlotte Street Arts Centre, believes this is an opportune

moment for arts organizations and businesses to form a bond – a mutualistic relationship that promotes a business and funds the arts, all at once. It seems promising on paper, but Hunter said in an interview that the fusion of arts and business is a point of controversy for some in the arts, and particularly in Fredericton. “There’s a huge gap on both sides between business and the arts,” Hunter said. “And artists feel defensive about explaining why the arts and culture is important.” She cited Detroit as a strong example of a city in economic ruin that has embraced the concept of art

integration in unconventional spaces. Artists there have taken advantage of dilapidated, abandoned buildings by transforming them into works of visual art. Colin Darke, editor-in-chief of TheDetroiter.com, wrote a fascinating piece for the Huffington Post on precisely this movement that’s well-worth a read, called “Empty Buildings No Longer Abandoned”. Here in Fredericton, the Charlotte Street Arts Centre is a prime example of reinvention; the Charlotte Street School was built in 1884, making it the oldest school building in the city still standing. Instead of tearing it down, someone saw potential for the arts to breathe new life into the


8 • Apr. 4, 2012 • Issue 27 • Volume 145

Women in Media and Games in Academia Elizabeth Creelman The Brunswickan

brunswickanarts New Brunswick summer music festival guide

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Haley Ryan Arts Reporter A warm breeze floats over the crowd, rustling the trees around you. The band on the stage begins its next song; it’s one of your favourites, and everyone cheers. You start to sway with the music, tilting your head back to face the sun. If you’ve ever been at a summer music festival, scenes like that one might be familiar. If you haven’t and you’re planning to be in New Brunswick this summer, this year is a great time to start. Paddlefest, May 3-6: Located in the little seaside town of St. Andrews, this festival kicks off the summer concert season. There will be shows during the day in the local pubs, and music starts every evening around 7 p.m. in the main tent. The lineup so far includes the Olympic Symphonium, Matt Andersen, Grand Theft Bus, and the Tom Fun Orchestra, among others. Head to paddlefestnb. ca for ticket info, and if you’re a kayak or canoe fan, there are some organized paddles in nearby lakes and, of course, the Bay of Fundy. $30 for Friday, $20 for Saturday. Edmundston Jazz & Blues Festival, June 20-23: This is a family festival that has loads of blues, Dixie and jazz acts, which perform outside or under tents in downtown Edmundston. No lineup yet, so keep checking the Facebook page and website at jazzbluesedmundston. com for details. FeelsGood Folly Fest, June 29-July 1: The Village of Gagetown will be welcoming back dozens of rock, folk and electronic bands for this Canada Day weekend party, one of the most

popular of the summer. Last year’s lineup included acts like Hey Ocean, Tupper Ware Remix Party, Ben Caplan, and Three Sheet to name a few. There’s camping available, an artisan’s market and the festival uses biodegradable cups and renewable electricity for the stages. Keep an eye on follyfest.com for details. 2011 ticket price was $80 for an advanced weekend pass. SaltyJam Festival, July 5-7: Originally a weekend of jazz, this Saint John festival now invites country and rock acts like Slowcoaster to its downtown venues. Last year’s headliner was Rosanne Cash, daughter of the legendary Johnny Cash, so they might be able to pull in a big name again. Keep an eye on saltyjam. ca for the lineup. Last year’s weekend pass ran $80. Canada’s Irish Festival, July 19-22: Miramichi is home to one of the largest Irish heritage parties in the country, so put on your best green shirt and listen to some fiddle tunes or watch an Irish dance. Head to O’Donoghues for a Guinness after a day of shows. Day admissions are $5, pub tickets are around $15 or $20 for evening shows. SappyFest, August 3-5: Located in the small, waterfowl-loving village of Sackville, this year’s festival has taken the theme “Like a Virgin.” Formed in 2006 by Sappy Records, the organization has nabbed big names to perform over the years, like Chad VanGaalen, Sloan, and Arcade Fire played a secret show last year under the name Shark Attack! There’s an open-air market, Picaroons beer and a wine fair every year. Check back soon at sappyfest.com for lineup. Festival passes are $118 with tax. Dooryard Avrts Festival, August 8-11: Focusing on all aspects of art, this Woodstock event is only in its fourth summer but is developing a large fan base. There are musical performances, fine art displays and theatre productions in this pretty riverside village. Former artists have included Polaris Prize and Juno-nominated Jenn Grant, as well as Andy Brown and the Belle Comedians. Check dooryardarts. net for lineup and ticket details. FredRock Festival, August 10-11: One of the biggest concerts takes place right here in Fredericton near the end of the summer at a huge outdoor event. Beer tents and all-ages areas both offered, and with past acts like Sam Roberts, Joel Plaskett, Girl Talk, and Our Lady Peace, this summer will hopefully be another great way to wrap up the concert season. Check fredrockfest.com for ticket prices and lineup, coming soon. Magnetic Hill Music Festival, August 26: Nothing has been confirmed, but Bruce Springsteen has been a headlining rumour for awhile, and some sources are definitely saying he’ll be at Moncton’s biggest outdoor show of the summer. Remember that little Irish band, U2? Yeah, they rocked this event last year, and previous acts have also included the Rolling Stones, AC/DC and The Eagles. Last year’s standing area tickets were $65, and grandstands ranged from $100 to $200.


brunswickanarts

Apr. 4, 2012 • Issue 27 • Volume 145 • 9

Steamy Summer Reading The New Position Sarah Vannier

Well, we’ve finally come to the last sex column of the year. Before we all pack up our books and throw on our flip flops, I’d like to leave you with a few suggestions for some fun, zzzzand sexy, summer reading. Some of these are books I’ve read and love, and some of these are on my own summer reading list. They’re all interesting and will make you think about sex and relationships in ways you haven’t before. Plus, they make your bookshelf more interesting for when you have guests over! A Billion Wicked Thoughts (by Ogi Ogas and Sai Gaddam) This book made a big splash when it was published last year. The authors use information about what people are doing online to provide some pretty interesting, and often unexpected, insight into what really turns us on. For example, did you know that after “teen” and “young” two of the most common search terms men use when looking for porn are “mom” and “MILF”? Or how about the fact that there’s a large audience for erotic stories featuring vampires and werewolves? Bonk: The Curious Coupling of Science and Sex (by Mary Roach) This book is a personal favourite. The author takes you into the weird and wonderful world of sex research and covers everything from the hunt for the female Viagra to people having sex in MRI machines. And, as if the topic isn’t interesting enough, Mary Roach’s writing is a pleasure to read. She has an uncanny ability to make you feel that you’re there while she watches a man sexually stimulate female pigs (to increase the chances of them getting pregnant of course) and keeps you laughing the whole way through. I originally read this book on an airplane and got more than one funny look for laughing out loud. I’ll Show You Mine (edited by Wrenna Robertson ) I discovered this book on my last trip to Venus Envy in Halifax. It’s a beautiful hardcover book filled with pictures of vulvas – 120, to be precise. The book features close-up photographs of the vulvas of 60 different women photographed standing up and lying down. Each of the pictures comes with a little story about the woman in the picture. I love this book because it showcases the beauty and variety of a body part that we rarely get to see. Plus the book is published by a small company based in Vancouver (showoffbooks.com) and 10 per cent of the book’s profits are donated to women’s charities. Win-win. (Side note: If anyone is wondering what to get me for my birthday, look no further!)

Are you 18 years or older? If so, we are looking for YOU! Researchers at UNB need volunteers for an International survey about University student’s online sex lives. The study takes about 10 - 20 minutes to complete. If you are interested, please follow this link to obtain more information.

OnlineSexStudy.org This study is on file with the UNB Research Ethics Board (File #2012-132). For questions, please contact the primary researcher at hsrg@unb.ca

The Ethical Slut (by Dossie Easton and Jenet Hardy) I haven’t actually read this one yet but it’s on my personal reading list. The Ethical Slut is touted as “a practical guide to polyamory, open relationships, and other adventures.” That said, you don’t have to be interested in having a non-monogamous relationship to get something out of this book. It’ll make you think about things like the importance of communicating with a partner, how to deal with feelings of jealousy, and general sex positivity. What I love about this book is that it’ll get you thinking about what a “normal” relationship looks like. Supersex (by Tracey Cox) If you’re looking to spend your summer vacation improving your sex life, this is the book you’re looking for. Advertised as the “sex manual for the new millennium,” it’s filled with fun sex facts, advice, and information. Topics range from the basic (e.g., what happens to our bodies during sex), to the more practical (e.g., how to give great head, how to tell your partner what you want in bed, sex positions to try), to the more adventurous (e.g., role-playing, spanking, bondage). And even if you already know everything there is to know about sex, this book is still worth a buy just for the beautiful erotic pictures inside. Have a wonderful summer and happy reading!

Guided by webisodes Brandon Hicks The Brunswickan An all-new web experience is being delivered straight to your computer. You sign up by submitting your email and stating the time. Minutes later, a link is sent to you. This is the first episode of Guidestones, a web-based interactive thriller of a different breed than the usual mystery story. In the main program, the story, inspired by allegedly true events follows two Canadian journalism students who follow clues about an unsolved murder, taking them on a multi-continental search for answers. Presented through several different styles of filming, including a more traditional narrative style and fauxdocumentary/video diaries. The “Guidestones” referred to in the title are the Georgia Guidestones, a granite monument in Georgia, USA. The stones were erected, according to an explanatory tablet to the west of the structure, Mar. 22, 1980. However, as to why it was made, or who commissioned it, little is known. Guidestones sends the show to

you in real time, through email, distancing each installment by emailing episodes corresponding with the time it would take between them in the story. This is all relative to the time in which you submit your email address, so that the entire experience can unfold for you, as if it was just happening. “All the ways of distributing content that I could find seemed to be a single event,” said writer/director Jay Ferguson in a phone interview. “I tried to figure out how to do it in a way that it will always be new.” The original method of distribution utilized by the show gives its story a new dimension of realism that the usual thriller can’t offer. Each of the areas that the characters go to exists, much of which is shot on Ryerson University campus. Any of the sites, or YouTube videos that are shown in the program, can also be found by the viewer. To encourage the audience to interact with the show, each episode has names, places, numbers and ideas expressed, often in a “cliffhanger”, that the viewer can explore online between installments, before the reveal in the next show.

“There is as much hidden media as there is in the shows themselves,” Ferguson said. A slick look and high production value is the product of full investment of talent and resources from those involved, as well as funding from organizations such as the Independent Production Fund. The IPF provides financial support for dramatic Canadian programming, for mediums such as web distribution or mobile platforms. By allowing the viewer to search themselves between episodes, and possibly get ahead of the protagonist in the mystery, Guidestones is unique in the way it creates an experience for the audience, rather than just telling a story. It’s vaguely reminiscent of old mystery serials as you wait anxiously for the next installment. However, with the modern benefit of the Internet research, the audience is no longer restricted to only waiting around for the payoff. For more information, or to sign up for the Guidestones experience to come to you, go to their website at guidestone.org.


brunswickansports

Apr. 4, 2012 • Issue 27 • Volume 145 • 10

sports@thebruns.ca

Is the University Cup format too short?

Nick Murray The Brunswickan After a great weekend of CIS hockey, teams are back home crunching down for the final stretch of the academic year. Over the championship weekend, there was triumph, heartbreak, and upset, but a national cham-pionship wouldn’t be a true tournament without some form of debate. One of the many hot topics around the Aitken Centre was about the format of the tournament. As it stands now, the current format makes every game essentially a mustwin. If you lose your first, but win your second like the Aigles Bleus did, you’re forced to watch from the stands as your tournament fate unfolds on the ice before you, and ultimately the winner of the pool is based on goal differential if there is a tie. Many coaches, players, and delegates who were asked about the format during the tournament agreed it was too short and more games need to be added to the schedule. However, the other side to the argument is that the premise of the CIS is academics come first, and if more games are added, then athletes will be missing more classes. Talking with various players around the tournament, many of them felt as though more games needed to be added. Western Mustangs goaltender Josh Unice said he’d like to see more games over the weekend which he thinks would create a better atmosphere for fans, and feels as though his academics wouldn’t be affected by a longer tournament. “Instead of it being more of a roundrobin tournament, maybe eliminate the bottom team of each pool and have a crossover game,” he said. “Teachers [at Western] do a great job of sending out notes and keeping us prepared on what we missed, so I don’t think that the length of the tourna-ment would affect us student-athletes as much as they say.” This year, the Saskatchewan Huskies left Monday morning for the tournament and therefore missed a full week’s worth of classes. It’s understandable why they left that early considering they

Although the McGill Redmen won this season and may enjoy the tournament format, there are people on both sides of the fence when it comes to thinking about changing the tournament format. Andrew Meade / The Brunswickan crossed over two time zones. However, the Western Mustangs also left Monday to have three days to prepare for the tournament, despite only crossing one time zone. Huskies captain Kyle Ross was one player who said the format was fine for his team. “I don’t mind the format actually,” Ross said, “it’s pretty much do or die. You have to come in and win right away. If you don’t, you’re in big trouble. If our country was smaller and the travel wasn’t as bad for some teams then maybe you could have more games.” Huskies head coach Dave Adolph felt differently than his captain and argued that most teams are missing a full week of classes anyway; therefore, adding more games makes sense. “Most teams arrive Monday or Tues-

the panel voice your opinion

day anyway,” Adolph said. “So we’ve always argued that the kids are going to sacrifice five days of school for a chance to win a national championship. So why not extend it and allow everybody to have a round-robin format.” Adolph also gave credit to the “student” aspect of his players and said they prepare themselves accordingly in the classroom before the tournament. “Let’s not forget that school’s over in a week,” Adolph added. “Most of these guys have planned ahead, their assignments are done, their midterms are taken care of, and really what they’re miss-ing is the preparation time for their finals, and in a lot of cases exams don’t start until [the first week of April].” McGill’s Marc-André Dorion, who was named as a CIS top-eight Academic All-Canadian, also shared Adolph’s view

with regards to starting the tournament a few days earlier. “If they started the tournament a day or two earlier we could deal with that [as students],” Dorion said. “I think we could deal with it because one or two days won’t make a big difference on our studies and the format is pretty short already. If you don’t win your first game, your chances of making it to the finals are pretty slim, so hopefully one day it will change.” When asked about his view on the tournament, McGill head coach Kelly Nobes said with the resources available to his players, they wouldn’t be affected as students. “You learn to play within that format,” Nobes said. “There’s certain constraints with these guys being student-athletes, but our guys make

SEE HOCKEY PAGE 12

Who do you think will win the Female and Male Athlete of the Year Awards?

K. Bryannah James

Christopher Cameron

Josh Fleck

I think, because of both her dedication and drive both on and off of the court, and her extensive and thorough work with Right to Play, Melissa Foster of the women’s basketball team will win the Female Athlete of the Year Award. On the men’s side, I think it’ll be a toss-up between Julio Fernandez from the men’s volleyball team for his stellar performance all year and Jordan Clendenning from the men’s hockey team for his work off the ice as well.

I have to go with Vanja Mitrovic and Jonathan Harty. As a rookie Vanja was leader statistically for the V-Reds women’s volleyball team, while Jon Harty had a career best team for the men’s hockey team.

My choice for athletes of the year are Julio Fernandez of the men’s volleyball team and Sam Stewart of the wrestling team. Fernandez was a standout for the volleyball team as he was top ten in nearly every major statistic in the AUS on his way to AUS MVP honors. Stewart went wire to wire as the #1 ranked wrestler in her division for the whole year. She would have been the favorite going into the championships if she hadn’t had hurt her knee at the Guelph Open

Sports Editor

adjustments to their schedules and get a lot of lectures online. So I don’t think [one or two days out of the classroom] would be that big of a deal.” UQTR veteran Maxime Lévesque, who already competed in one University Cup two years ago, feels from a hockey standpoint an extra game or two is needed, but from an academic standpoint the format is fine. “I think the current format is consistent with the way that the CIS playoffs work,” Lévesque said (translated from French). “However I think that an extra game would be appreciated by the players because if we lose our first game, it’s very hard to make the finals. I also think the

EIC

Sports Writer

Nick Murray Sports Writer

Female athlete of the year will be Danielle Losier. Male athlete of the year will be Kyle Bailey. All the work he’s put into the community and he dedication to the program should see him walking away with the award.


brunswickansports

Apr. 4, 2012 • Issue 27 • Volume 145 • 11

@brunswickan

A year in review Back of the Net K. Bryannah James As the year comes to a close, and all of the sports teams have finished their season, I’m left here trying to figure out the best way to recap a year of ups and downs. So bear with me here as I try and go over all of the teams which call UNB home. To start it off, we may as well go as far back as the beginning of the school year when the women and men’s Varsity Red soccer teams took to the field. There’s a series of patterns throughout the season for both teams. It usually revolves around a weekend of losing one, and tying the other - or losing both. It seems like the soccer teams were unable to capitalize on their seasons, even though both teams had a number of factors in their favour. For the men’s team placed seventh with a 3-6-4 record by the end of the season, they had the speed, footwork and skill level to have placed higher. But as we saw early on, they weren’t able to gain those extra wins against tough competitors as the Cape Breton University Capers and the University of Prince Edward Island Panthers. Both teams placed in the top two of AUS standings, and CBU placed top three in CIS. UNB may have placed seventh out of 10 teams, but it looked like a trend from the beginning where UNB couldn’t push the ball forward, and couldn’t finish at the net. That being said, the men’s team had a strong keeper in Aaron McMurray, but low scoring opportunities. Their final game of the season saw their talent and abilities when they handed the Mounties a loss, yet, they seemed to start firing on all cylinders too little too late in the season. Key players of note include Sam Boateng and Rory Keys. The women’s team however, I still don’t see how they didn’t make the top three in AUS. I know they held a 4-7-2 record, but that wasn’t without trying. Their games had grit and positioning, but it seemed it fell short by the end of the season. Watching those games you could tell the Reds knew the positioning of their teammates on the field but it just didn’t seem like there was luck on their side. What hindered them was being unable to play back-to-back games and win consecutively. Although their record doesn’t show it, here was a team who played with heart, but the standings don’t show that. Such players who incorporated this heart included Heather Ambery, Meggie Spicer, Brianna Ford, and Jackie Blank. From the start I thought the men’s volleyball team would reclaim its AUS title. They didn’t have the same depth on their team as last year, with the absence of graduate player Jacob Kilpatrick; but such players as Matt Sweet, John Sheehan, Julio Fernandez, Andrew Costa and Marc White, the team had the talent to bring it on the court. But, as stated in previous issues, they didn’t have the depth yet, especially with the youth coming into this year. I think by next year the Reds will be a well-oiled machine and reclaim the AUS title they lost last year. With Dan McMorran’s coaching, it’s inevitable this team will see victory again. They may be young - but next year they’ll have had a full season under their belts to function as a solid unit. As for the women’s volleyball team - yeah we’ve been incredibly hard on them all year. Everyone can see that. They were at the pinnacle of perfec-

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Accepting applications for September 2012. Large 1, 2 & 3 bdrm. apts. in a well maintained secure building. Dishwashers and some with balconies. Three minute walk to the university.

Phone 451-8300 E-mail: hillside.estates2@yahoo.ca See how this year panned-out for UNB’s varsity athletics. Andrew Meade / The Brunswickan tion last year in the AUS when they claimed a championship title, but let’s face it, they blew it big time this year. But it has to be noted why. It didn’t have to do with a lack of coaching, but better yet, a lack of seniority and a plethora of fledgling talent. We saw the departure, due to graduation, of a number of key players for the team and what was left was an open team ready for recruitment. Granted they may have bombed this year, it wasn’t because they willingly said “Hey, let’s just not care.” That wasn’t it at all contrary to popular scrutiny. Players such as Olivia Babcock, Paige Paulsen, Emma Hunt, Vanja Mitrovic, and Katrina Legutky may be new on the court, but they showed a lot of heart when they played. Especially Mitrovic. I wouldn’t be surprised to open the paper next year and read about her accomplishments. These players will bring the volleyball team back to the pinnacle they dropped from. Onto basketball, a touchy subject over the course of the year; granted I didn’t write too many articles on both teams, I’ve hit a few nerves with women’s basketball coverage. And rightfully so, but if you’re not playing up to the standard your team has set, you’ll get some flack for it in the paper. The team, as I’ve said a couple times, dropped the ball this season. It’s not for a lack of trying, but it is for a lack of capitalizing. There’s depth to this team; we’ve seen it in Claire Colborne, Megan Corby, Melissa Foster, Emma Russell, and Colleen Daly. The talent pool goes deeper than most teams just by naming those key-talented ballers, but for some reason the team was unable to

capitalize on that raw talent and get the ball to the hoop. The men’s basketball team had a rocky start, with main baller Will McFee’s absence at the beginning of the year. That being said, Vanier College players Seth Amoah and Michael Fosu stepped up to the point and helped the team. Of all the teams I watched and reported this year, I’d say the men’s basketball team had some of the best drive I’ve witnessed all season. Yeah, they didn’t place as highly as most would have liked, but if you saw their final home game this season then you would know this was a team that literally fought right to the bitter end. Finally, the last Varsity team to speak about: the men’s hockey team. I would be a complete and utter liar if I said I wasn’t holding my breath and hoping the team would have thrown the third and game-tying puck into the back of the net in the semifinal game of CIS. Here’s a team that was at the zenith of CIS hockey and it came crashing down on them during the big game. They had their struggles over the course of the year - evident in two injured goalies and a few notable injuries on the roster, but we all saw it. They weren’t firing on all cylinders until the last 10 minutes of the third in the semifinal, and although they overcame obstacles all year to get to that game, they didn’t give the final push when they should have. Granted, Harty, Culligan, Gallant, and Clendenning have been players whose overall consistency and fire have been hugely noted, and I would say are four of the players who never quit, even in the last 30 seconds.

www.hillsideestates.ca


brunswickansports

12 • Apr. 4, 2012 • Issue 27 • Volume 145

“I don’t think the current format is ‘fan-friendly’” - MacPherson FROM HOCKEY PAGE 10 format is good for academic purpos-es, but if they added an extra day we’d be fine in the classroom and it would be well worth it.” Aside from the academic concerns of extending the length of the tournament, UNB athletic di-rector John Richard argued the financial repercussions of extending the tournament must also be taken into account. “Adding more competition days also adds more travel days,” Richard said. “It’s not cheap to send 40 people on the

road, so you have to make the most of the time you do have.” Finally, the CIS’ response to the discussion on format change is an optimistic one. CIS president Leo MacPherson said the current format is complicated for everyone and having a simplified round-robin format is feasible, and is something that is currently being reviewed by the CIS. “I don’t think that the current format is really ‘fan friendly’,” MacPherson said. “I think it will add more credibility when we have something that’s simple for the average fan to understand. Right now

Spring renewal with detoxification Tova Payne The Brunswickan

thebruns.ca

The change of seasons, particularly into Spring, is often identified as a time for “Spring cleaning.” It’s a time of renewal, which involves letting go. Internally, we can Springclean our systems through cleansing. There are many different kinds of cleanses. On the market, there are some for purchase, which often contain herbs that may be quite harsh for some people, yet for others can be a beneficial experience. This article is about informing you of natural ways to detoxify. This doesn’t cost you anything outside of changing your eating habits. We often get into food habits in the cold months of the winter, which make us crave more hearty foods and sweets that can lead to excess. When I talk about “excess,” I mean an imbalance of what our bodies really need. Some people may refer to this as weight, others will refer to it as stagnation, or even actual toxic build-up, if a diet was full of processed and saturated foods. I don’t recommend going from your current way of eating straight into a deep, radical cleanse, such as ones you may have heard about in the media. This can be extremely harsh on your system and may lead to headaches, weakness, emotional disturbance, and other ill effects. Instead, you can safely and efficiently detox in a balanced way. Here is an example, not a protocol of how you may want to detox to bring in the Spring season and start releasing the excess of winter: Start your day with lemon in your water and have two to three glasses of water before 10 a.m. Have a breakfast consisting of one to two fruits, plain yoghurt without any additives or sweeteners (like Western brand), and about 14 almonds or a tablespoon of nut butter. Drink plenty more water with lime or lemon throughout the day, and if you are hungry for a snack, stick with fruits like apples, pears or citrus fruits. You can also turn fruits into a smoothie by adding water or some pure plain yoghurt in a blender.

For lunch, have a whole grain such as brown rice with vegetables, a pure protein source such as white poultry or plain fish, or substitute for pure beans. Stay away from any sauces, condiments or additives. In the name of cleansing, stick with pure ingredients. For a snack you can always choose more vegetables, fruit, or plain yoghurt or even have pure plain oatmeal (the kind you actually have to cook!) with cinnamon and a few raisins. Have a dinner much like lunch – very plain and basic. The idea of this type of cleanse is to stay away from sugars, all food additives, ‘heavy’ foods like steak and cheese, and excess salts, yet, to eat enough that your body is not deficient or feeling weak. Eat more or less according to your physical needs and hunger level. You may want to stick with this for three days, or you may want to stick with it for about a week. An added benefit of cleansing is as you re-introduce foods into your diet, you may start to notice how certain foods affect you. For example, you may notice some foods lead to discomfort, bloating, or in fact, you don’t actually like overly salted or sugary foods. Taking the time to cleanse in a balanced manner, can be a helpful way to energize you, as well as inform you about how foods affect you.

we even have administrators that are asking ‘what’s the tie-breaking process’ and we need to avoid that.” Regarding the issue of pulling the athletes out of the classroom, MacPherson said the “rule of thumb” for teams travelling is that for every hour of time zone change, teams need one day to recover; and in cases like Saskatchewan or teams from British Columbia, the players will be missing a full week of classes, regardless. If the tournament were to be moved up a few days, where teams would arrive Friday or Saturday - essentially missing

the same number of classes, as they are now - the problem still remains the financial strain on the schools. “If we moved the tournament up a few days, that would solve the academic problem,” MacPher-son said. “However it’s the additional costs that then becomes the problem. There is a balance to be achieved here, and keeping it simple for the participants and fans is key.” MacPherson said he’s confident a new format is on the horizon, and the proposal for the new format is similar to what Unice aforementioned. “What the coaches would like to see

is two pools of three where you play the other teams in your pool, and then you cross over with the other pool. This way you get legitimate semi-final games and we would add at least a day to the tournament, perhaps two.” Though the proposed format may not be implemented until after 2014, mainly because Saskatch-ewan placed its bid under the current format, MacPherson said a change is likely to happen. “I think that if it’s a day extra, what you gain offsets the additional costs,” he added. “I’m optimis-tic that it can change and that it will change.”


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