20131224_ca_halifax by Metro Canada

Tuesday, December 24, 2013

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HALIFAX NEWS WORTH SHARING.

Merry Xmas! No Metro Wednesday and Thursday but look for our special Boxing Day edition on the 27th!

Ghost of Christmas presents? Cops release video apparently showing PAGE 3 robber stealing gifts from home

Into the red N.S. expected to add $125M to its debt to maintain roads, schools PAGE 4 and other infrastructure

MEDIOCREMAN METRO LOOKS BACK ON THE WORST FILMS OF 2013; AMONG THEM, THIS GUY PAGE 11

‘Catch your breath and then let’s go crazy’ Retail. Doors reopen Dec. 27, not Dec. 26 as elsewhere in Canada

Wendy Friedman, owner of Biscuit General Store, poses for a photo in her downtown retail location on Monday afternoon. JEFF HARPER/METRO

While most Canadians rush to malls on Boxing Day armed with gift cards and Christmas cash, the doors of shopping centres in Nova Scotia will remain locked. Nova Scotia is one of only a few provinces to keep retail stores closed on Dec. 26. “I think it says that we place more value on people than dollar bills,” Wendy Friedman, owner of Biscuit General Store on Argyle Street, said on Monday. “That’s the way I run my business, so I fully support (staying closed).” Friedman said Boxing Day is a chance to unwind and enjoy the company of family and friends, and that includes people who work in the world of retail. “It’s good to have a couple of days to hunker down and get fed and rested and get sick of everybody,” said Friedman with a laugh. “I love being able to let my staff have that time, because we work really hard before Christmas. “Take a moment, catch your breath and then let’s go crazy and have fun and go shopping.” Friedman said her clothing, accessory and giftware boutique isn’t losing out on any

Provinces on Dec. 26

• Closed. Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador

revenues by staying closed the extra day. “We have a great day (on Dec. 27). We have a lineup down the street,” said Friedman, whose store has become famous for its Boxing Day sales. Halifax resident Michelle Allison said she also supports staying closed, as Christmas is supposed to be about spending time with loved ones. “We don’t have much time off with our families, so I think we should just spend it with our families and not shop,” she said while sitting with her six-year-old daughter Grace in the packed food court at the Halifax Shopping Centre on Monday. “I’m shopping now. I want to be done.” Stephani McPhee, who plans on hitting the shops for Boxing Day sales, said she’s indifferent about stores being closed a day longer. “It’s good to spend quality time with your family on Christmas,” said the 17-yearold. “But people are also excited to go shopping and to spend all the money they get.” ALY THOMSON/METRO

NEWS

metronews.ca Tuesday, December 24, 2013

Holiday shopping

What’s open and closed this week

Halifax police are searching for this man after he allegedly broke into a Dartmouth home and stole Christmas presents. COURTESY HALIFAX REGIONAL POLICE

Santa, you’re supposed to break in and leave gifts ... Theft. Outraged citizens Violation spread photo of suspect “It strikes a personal chord because ‘like crazy’ after gifts, everybody can relate to that.” electronics, coins stolen Police spokesman Const. Pierre Bourdages Halifax police are searching for a man who allegedly broke into a Dartmouth home last Thursday, taking wrapped Christmas gifts and other valuables. Around 4 p.m. on Dec. 19, police say a man returning from work realized his home had been broken into. A review of security camera footage inside the house showed a man breaking into the

Athorpe Drive home around 11:20 a.m. Police say the man stole a number of wrapped Christmas gifts, electronics and collector coins before leaving the area on foot. “It’s very upsetting for everybody involved,” said Halifax Regional Police spokesperson Const. Pierre Bourdages. “(They) were ready for Christmas and now this

guy just comes in and steals that stuff.” The suspect is described as a white man, 20 to 40 years of age, 180 pounds, about six feet tall and with a mole on his right cheek between his mouth and nose. He was wearing a blue toque with a Boston Red Sox logo, purple hoodie, black jacket with a gray stripe across the chest, blue jeans

and black shoes. Bourdages said he’s sure the family is feeling violated but says people have taken an interest in the story and shared photos of the suspect “like crazy” on social media. “It strikes a very personal space, so people are upset about this,” Bourdages said. “We have citizens that really care about these kinds of stories.” Police received dozens of tips about the man’s identity by Monday afternoon, he said. Anyone with information about the break-in is asked to call police at 490-5016 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-2228477.

NEWS

Businesses across the municipality will be operating at reduced schedules this week. Here’s what you need to know: The Nova Scotia Liquor Corporation is reminding people to make their purchases before 5 p.m. on Christmas Eve, as stores will not reopen until Dec. 27. For last-minute giftgetters and Boxing Day shoppers, the Halifax Shopping Centre, Bedford Place Mall and Mic Mac Mall will be open the same hours over the holidays. The malls are open until 5 p.m. on Christmas Eve and closed on Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Halifax Shopping Centre and Mic Mac Mall reopen Dec. 27 from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., while Bedford Place Mall opens at 9 a.m. Most Sobeys and Superstore locations will also close at 5 p.m. on Christmas Eve and will not reopen until Dec. 27. Most Shoppers Drug Mart stores will be open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Christmas and Boxing days. Lawtons stores will close for Christmas and will open Boxing Day from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. HRM says there will be no solid-waste collection on Christmas Day. The curbside collection of garbage, organics and recyclables that would normally happen on Wednesday will happen on Saturday. Buses will be running on Christmas Day. Metro Transit will be operating on its Sunday/holiday schedule. It will have regular service on Christmas Eve. METRO

04 Cobequid Pass

Man hospitalized after being struck by snowplow Nova Scotia RCMP say a man was taken to hospital with serious injuries after being hit by a snowplow. Police say the accident occurred around 7:30 p.m. Sunday at the Cobequid

NEWS

Pass toll plaza. They say the plow was clearing the road around the toll booth when it struck a pedestrian. The victim, a 50-year-old man from New Brunswick, was walking around his truck when he was hit. Police say he was taken to hospital in Truro with serious, but non-life-threatening injuries. The plow driver wasn’t hurt. the canadian press

metronews.ca Tuesday, December 24, 2013

Pictou County

2 hurt in collision on Highway 104

MLA pushes for safety barriers

A section of Highway 104 was shut down for hours in Pictou County after a crash on Monday. RCMP say the accident happened around 2:15 p.m. near Broadway. Two were hurt, but the injuries weren’t considered life threatening. metro

Hants West MLA Chuck Porter is asking the province to install barriers on a section of Highway 101 near Falmouth. “This stretch of highway is extremely dangerous,” said Porter, with a fatal accident there just last Thursday. hants journal

Capital plans add $125M to N.S. debt Spending plans released. Big bucks earmarked for schools, bridges, highways and other infrastructure Nova Scotia’s finance minister estimates the province is going to have to add at least $125 million to its debt to maintain roads, schools and other infrastructure in 2014-15. Diana Whalen released the province’s capital spending plans Monday, with about half of the $535 million targeted at highways, bridges and other structures, such as dykes, around the province. The government says the provincial debt stands at almost $14 billion. Whalen recently released a budget forecast showing the province has fallen deeply into the red, with a deficit figure of $481.7 million for 2013-14. The new Liberal finance minister said she asked officials whether Nova Scotia can afford to replace and repair infrastructure over the

Highway 101

Truro

Hungry trucker stops to eat, wins a million bucks The latest $1-million lottery ticket sold in Truro was purchased by a New Brunswick truck driver. Over the weekend, it was announced that for the second time in less than a

month, a ticket sold in the town of 12,000 had won the Maxmillions draw. On Monday, Atlantic Lottery announced the winner was truck driver Larry Saulnier of Moncton, who during a day trip stopped to eat in Truro, and decided to purchase the ticket. The triumph follows another $1-million win by a group of nurses dubbed the “Sweet 16” crew. metro

Budget

The 2014-15 capital budget projection is about $10 million higher than the most recent forecast of $525 million for repairs, purchases and replacements in 2013-14.

Finance Minister Diana Whalen the canadian press

next few years. The alternative, she said, would mean crumbling infrastructure and deteriorating buildings. “If we maintain our spending at that rate we’ll be looking after what we’ve got,” she said. Whalen said the province is optimistic that jobs created by capital spend-

ing will help stimulate the economy. There are more than 100 projects planned by the province for the next fiscal year, with most determined by priority lists set by various government departments. The list includes $81.5 million for 10 new schools and alterations to 18 others. Health authorities will receive about $27.1 million for facility construction and repairs, as well as the replacement of medical equipment and computer upgrades. The Transportation Department is planning $250.8 million for work on highways, bridges and other structures. the canadian press

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas A pedestrian shields herself from the rain while passing by a Christmas-themed window display on Spring Garden Road on Monday. Wednesday’s Christmas forecast is calling for a mix of sun and cloud with temperatures hitting -5 C. Jeff Harper/Metro

Suspect sought after shots fired, car stolen

The Quality Inn in Clayton Park. Jeff Harper/Metro

Police say they don’t know what led to an argument between two men in Clayton Park early Monday morning that resulted in gunshots and one of the men stealing the other’s car. Halifax Regional Police responded to a report of shots being fired in the parking lot of the Quality Inn on Parkland Drive around 5:50 a.m. A 53-year-old man had gotten into an argument with another man he knew,

police said. The 20-year-old suspect assaulted the man and fired several shots, but none hit him. “It is worrying,” said police spokesman Const. Pierre Bourdages. “It happened … a couple days before Christmas in a mainly residential area.” Police say the younger man took the victim’s yellow Pontiac Aztek, drove away, and has not been found. The victim went to the

By the numbers

The number of gun incidents as of midDecember in HRM, according to Halifax Regional Police. There were 61 in the same time frame last year.

Quality Inn and called police. Bourdages said neither were guests at the hotel. Bourdages said he doesn’t

know how the men knew each other or why the fight started. The suspect is described as a 20-year-old Middle Eastern man with a thin build, five-foot-10, black hair and brown eyes. He was wearing all dark clothing. The suspect could be armed, and police say citizens should not approach him. Instead, they should call 911 if they spot him or the vehicle. Haley Ryan/metro

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NEWS

metronews.ca Tuesday, December 24, 2013

Hydro crews work around the clock to get lights on Ice storm. Hundreds of thousands in Ontario, Quebec and New Brunswick may still be without power on Christmas Day A nasty ice storm that left hundreds of thousands without power in Ontario and Quebec tracked through the Maritimes on Monday as authorities worked frantically to clear tree-strewn roadways, restore downed hydro lines and get stranded travellers to their destinations. Hydro companies in the Greater Toronto Area — which appeared to be the hardest hit by the weather system — warned some residents to brace for the possibility of being without power until Boxing Day or later. Some neighbourhoods resembled crime scenes with yellow police tape used to cordon off areas where electric wires or large trees had come crashing down over the weekend. Sidewalks around some high rise buildings were also closed off due to the risk of falling ice. Meanwhile, travellers trying to get home for the holidays continued to face delays and cancellations on airlines and trains. Environment Canada said the storm had hit Eastern Canada hard. “It was a mighty blow,” senior climatologist David Phillips told The Canadian Press. “It came at a really difficult time for people travelling and doing last-minute shopping.’’

Power outages

• Though some 215,000 customers in the Greater Toronto Area were still without power, Toronto Mayor Rob Ford insisted Monday that Canada’s largest city was not in a state of emergency. • Elsewhere in Ontario, Power Stream, which serves Markham, Richmond Hill and Vaughan among other communities, reported 16,300 customers were still down. • Meanwhile, Hydro One — which serves 1.3 million customers in Ontario communities that include Guelph, Peterborough and Walkerton — said more than 112,000 customers were still without power in smaller towns and rural areas. A crew subcontracted to assist with restoring power following the ice storm in Toronto works on a power line on Monday. Matthew Sherwood/the canadian press

The weather agency said the system had turned particularly vicious thanks to a combination of warm air from Texas colliding with cold air over Canada to create a drawnout period of freezing rain. “We had freezing rain from south of London, all the way through to Ottawa and Montreal and southern Quebec and now today to central and southern New Brunswick, all of P.E.I. and most of Nova Scotia,” said Phillips. “The geographical reach of this nasty, nasty storm is really affecting millions of Canadians in Eastern Canada.”

Recovery efforts

‘Winning the war’ “The prudent thing now is to plan for the worst and hope for the best,” said Toronto Hydro CEO Anthony Haines, whose utility had some 215,000 customers without power Monday afternoon, down from more than 300,000 at the peak of the outage. Haines said there were some communities where

crews hadn’t been able to get into yet as they triaged the power outage situation, prioritizing hospitals, water treatment plants and “feeders,” which serve thousands of customers. He did suggest, however, that recovery efforts appeared to be turning a corner. “I feel that we’re now winning the war, we’re able to restore more than is breaking behind us.” the canadian press

Sparrows sit on ice-covered branches in Mississauga, Ont., on Monday. J.P. Moczulski/ the canadian press

• In Quebec, nearly 45,000 customers remained without power, largely in the province’s Eastern Townships, as technicians worked to fix electricity lines and other equipment damaged by the storm. • In New Brunswick, the freezing rain that continued to fall Monday hampered efforts to restore power to thousands of customers in the province’s southwest. By mid afternoon, NB Power said more than 21,000 customers were without power.

the canadian press

Ammolite. Canadian gem Heart health. Canadians Apollo 8. Astronaut considered a national ‘need to do a lot better’ to relives spacecraft’s 1968 treasure stolen in heist reduce heart-attack risk Christmas Eve broadcast Police in Vancouver are looking for a rare gemstone stolen early last Friday morning in a robbery in the city’s Gastown district. The front window of Rocks and Gems Canada was smashed Dec. 20 and police say the crook made off with the opal-like gem, ammolite, which is worth $500,000. the canadian press

Ammolite the canadian press

Just one in 10 Canadians have ideal cardiovascular health, according to a new study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal. Even 50 per cent of children scored poorly in the groundbreaking study, which shows that the majority of the population needs to adopt a healthier lifestyle or

risk cardiovascular disease — the second-leading cause of death in the country. “The main message is that we need to do a lot better in terms of heart health if we want to reduce the incidence of heart attack or stroke occurring in Canada,” says senior author Dr. Jack Tu. torstar news service

An astronaut who was aboard the first manned spacecraft to orbit the moon is marking the mission’s 45th anniversary in front of a piece of the actual spacecraft. Retired Capt. James Lovell Jr. re-enacted the Apollo 8’s live Christmas Eve broadcast from 1968. During that broadcast, astronauts read verses of Gen-

esis from the Bible. On Monday, Lovell and several high school students took turns reading in front of an Apollo 8 module that’s housed at Chicago’s Museum of Science and Industry. Lovell says they chose Genesis because it’s central to three religions: Christianity, Judaism and Islam. the associated press

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NEWS

metronews.ca Tuesday, December 24, 2013

Pussy Riot is free, but say it’s not a victory ‘This is a hoax and a PR move.’ Band members say their release is a ‘cosmetic measure,’ call for ban on Olympics

Chadian forces wound at least two in drive-by Young men react after their friend was badly injured by passing Chadian troops during a protest outside M’Poko Airport in Bangui, Central African Republic, on Monday. Hundreds of demonstrators gathered to protest Chadian forces and express support for French troops and other regional African forces. At least two people were wounded as pickups of Chadian soldiers sped through the crowd firing off several rounds. Rebecca Blackwell/The associated Press

Nigeria’s president responds to allegations Nigeria’s President Goodluck Jonathan is challenging a prominent critic to prove allegations of corruption and that he is training a death squad to kill enemies. President Goodluck Jonathan, in a letter posted on his special adviser’s website Monday, did not address charges that he is shielding a party financier indicted for drug trafficking in the United States and France

Train carrying nuclear waste derails French authorities say a train carrying nuclear waste has derailed in a Paris suburb, but no leaks, injuries or other problems have been reported. An official with the national fire service says experts carried out radiological tests after the incident Monday in Drancy, and found no leaks. The official said the train went about 50 centimetres off the rails. THE Associated PRESS

that drug barons are influencing politicians. Jonathan said he has asked security agencies and the government-funded National Commission for Human Rights to investigate ex-president Olusegun Obasanjo’s suggestion that he is training a squad to assassinate some of the more than 1,000 alleged enemies on a hit list. Jonathan’s letter responds Brazil

Floods, mudslides kill at least 20 Civil defence officials say floods and mudslides caused by heavy downpours have killed at least 20 people and forced more than 40,000 to leave their homes in Brazil. The civil defence department of Minas Gerais state said Monday that 14 people died there in floodwaters or mudslides. The civil defence department in Espirito Santo state says another six people were killed there and about 40,150 people were forced from their homes. THE Associated PRESS

to criminal and treasonous allegations made by Obasanjo, his former mentor. It’s the most comprehensive accounting of his government ever provided by Jonathan, who has governed since the end of 2009, yet still sidesteps difficult questions. Nigeria’s leader barely touched on the issue of the indicted Buruji Kashamu, saying the man had already responded himself. THE Associated PRESS Indonesia

Official closes airport after he’s denied boarding The Indonesian government has warned a district chief after he forced an eastern airport to close temporarily because he failed to get a ticket on a fully booked flight, officials said Monday. Marianus Sae, chief of Ngada district in East Nusatenggara province, ordered dozens of city security officers to block the runway of Turarelo airport on Flores island on Saturday. THE Associated PRESS

Two members of the Russian punk band Pussy Riot walked free Monday, criticizing the amnesty measure that released them as a publicity stunt, with one calling for a boycott of the Winter Olympics to protest Russia’s human rights record. Maria Alekhina and Nadezhda Tolokonnikova were granted amnesty last week in a move largely viewed as the Kremlin’s attempt to soothe criticism of Russia’s humanrights record before the Games in Sochi in February. “I’m calling for a boycott of the Olympic Games,” Tolokonnikova said. “What is happening today — releasing people just a few months before their term expires — is a cosmetic measure.” Another member of the band, Yekaterina Samutsevich, was previously released on a suspended sentence. All three were found guilty of hooliganism motivated by religious hatred and sentenced to two years in prison for a guerrilla performance at Moscow’s main cathedral in March 2012.

Nadezhda Tolokonnikova, the third member of Russian punk bank Pussy Riot to be released from custody following an amnesty law passed by parliament, leaves prison in Krasnoyarsk, Russia, on Monday. Tatyana Vishnevskaya/The Associated Press

The band members said their protest was meant to highlight their concern about increasingly close ties between the state and the church.

Russia’s parliament passed the amnesty bill last week, allowing the release of thousands of inmates. The associated PRess

Reputed Montreal mob boss Rizzuto is dead Vito Rizzuto, the reputed head of the Montreal Mafia who built a powerful criminal organization with international tentacles, died in hospital Monday. Rizzuto, 67, passed away of natural causes, said Maude Hebert-Chaput of Montreal’s Sacre-Coeur Hospital. His death raises questions about the future of the Rizzuto clan’s decades-old empire, which was crippled by his 2006 extradition to the United States. Rizzuto was arrested by

Canadian authorities in 2004 and extradited two years later to the U.S., where he was convicted for his role in the 1981 murder of three Bonanno crime-family members in New York City. He was sentenced to 10 years in prison, minus time served while awaiting extradition. Following his October 2012 release, Rizzuto returned to Canada to a group of family and friends whose ranks had thinned considerably. THE CANADIAN PRESS

Vito Rizzuto The Canadian Press File

NEWS

metronews.ca Tuesday, December 24, 2013

Regina. Generous cops donate $415 plus toys to a family hit by thieves Police in Regina saved the day for a family whose presents were stolen in a break-in. Thieves broke into the home of a family with three children last week, taking all the family’s Christmas presents and a little girl’s piggy bank to boot. Police were called and one of the men in blue, Const. Brandon Boon, saw what happened and decided to do something. So he passed the hat among his colleagues, and pulled together $415 in cash, a snow globe, and more than eight kilograms of chocolate. The Regina Police Association, the officers’ union, donated some children’s toys as well. On Saturday, the officers presented the gifts to the family. Police spokesman Les Par‘Loud and dirty’

Compassion in blue

“They do see a lot of rough things ... It helps make them feel better to do a little good.” Regina police spokesman Les Parker

ker says it’s just one of many good deeds officers have done over the year. “I spoke to just two of our members and they gave me a huge list of anecdotes of the type of stuff that happens at Christmas, and year-round,” he said. Parker listed off just a few, including giving gift baskets to seniors, adopting families and manning the Salvation Army’s kettles. the canadian press

Voyeurism charge

Buzzard woes hit small town in Virginia

Woman says Tom peeped under bathroom stall

A Virginia town is looking for ways to get migrating buzzards to buzz off. This year, nearly 100 vultures landed in the Gladetown area of Vinton. Town manager Chris Lawrence says the town may kill one. The remains would be hung near the others, which would cause them to disperse, as they don’t like to be around their own dead. Lawrence also said the birds are “loud and dirty,” but that the town tries to co-exist with nature.

Police have charged a man with voyeurism at a bathroom of a public library in southwest Edmonton. It’s alleged a man followed a woman into the bathroom of the Lois Hole Library in Callingwood on Dec. 7. The woman alleges the man was on the floor of an adjacent stall, looking up at her. When she began yelling at him, he fled. Antonio Petraglia, 47, has been charged with voyeurism.

the associated press

the canadian press

Jailed in United Arab Emirates for comedy Satirical video. Eight people, including an American, sentenced to up to a year for ‘defaming the image’ of UAE society A court in the United Arab Emirates sentenced eight people, including an American, to up to a year in prison Monday after being convicted in connection with a satirical video about youth culture in Dubai. The video they produced and uploaded to the Internet was a spoof documentary of would-be “gangsta” youth in the Gulf Arab nation. The state-owned daily The National said they were accused of “defaming the image of United Arab Emirates society abroad.” Supporters reported that they were charged under a 2012 cyber-crimes law. Shezanne Cassim, a 29-year-old U.S. citizen from Woodbury, Minn., became the public face of the defendants after his family launched an effort to publicize his months-long incarceration following his arrest in April. Cassim, who was born in Sri Lanka and moved to Dubai for work after graduating from the University of Minnesota in 2006, was sentenced Monday to a year in prison followed by deportation and received a $2,725 fine. Two Indians received similar sentences, while two Emirati brothers were sen-

Shezanne Cassim of Minnesota, sentenced to jail Monday for humour crime. Courtesy Shervon Cassim/the associated press

tenced to eight months. A third brother was pardoned. Three others, a Canadian, Briton and an American, were convicted and sentenced in absentia to the penalties given to the other foreigners. They have never been detained and so are unlikely to serve their sentences. the associated press

Not so funny?

The case has drawn attention from celebrity comedians in the U.S. • The comedy video website Funny or Die,

co-founded by Will Ferrell and Adam McKay, posted a video earlier this month to raise awareness about Cassim’s situation.

Sharability :38

easy

hard

business

metronews.ca Tuesday, December 24, 2013

Market endorses Apple deal with China Mobile Fighting back. Alliance is tech giant’s latest attempt to gain smartphone-market share in world’s most populous country Apple’s stock rose 3 per cent in morning trading on Monday, a day after the company announced a long-anticipated agreement to bring the iPhone to China Mobile, the world’s biggest phone company. The deal has the potential to boost iPhone sales in a market where Apple Inc. faces intense competition. But even with China Mobile Ltd.’s vast state-owned network, marketing power

A woman using a phone walks past Apple’s logo near its retail outlet in Beijing Monday. the associated press

and more than 750 million mobile accounts, the iPhone has enormous challenges to overcome in the world’s most populous nation. Apple’s smartphone is already available in China

through two smaller carriers, and although it is popular with well-heeled Chinese customers, the iPhone is losing market share to lower-priced smartphones from Samsung and local brands. The iPhone 5S and 5C will go on sale in Apple and China Mobile stores beginning Friday, Jan. 17. China Mobile customers can register for phones starting Wednesday. The companies didn’t announce pricing or the terms of the agreement. The deal comes a month before China’s Lunar New Year holiday in late January, a big gift-buying season. That “will provide an immediate boost to Apple’s share in China,” said analyst Nicole Peng of Canalys, a research firm. THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Bordeaux vineyard

Chinese tycoon, son die in aircraft crash in France A Chinese businessman, his 12-year-old son and two other people died in a helicopter crash as they toured Bordeaux vineyards he had recently purchased, French authorities said Monday. THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Market Minute DOLLAR 94.24¢ (+ 0.33¢)

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Viva Las Vegas turnin’ day into Christmastime

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Brothers Joaquin, left, and Sebastian visit with the Red Queen during the third-annual Winter in Venice event at the Venetian hotel-casino on the Las Vegas Strip Dec. 5. Las Vegas casinos have begun staging elaborate Christmas events in recent years to attract tourists during the slow winter months. Hannah Dreier/the associated press

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VOICES

metronews.ca Tuesday, December 24, 2013

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, CHRISTMAS BABY couples avoid conceiving a baby with a holiI’m going to take a moment to abuse my day due date. In case you’re wondering, it’s power as a newspaper columnist and send a best to avoid the bedroom around the end of very Happy Birthday shout-out to my boyMarch if you want to skip a Christmastime defriend. Yes, my poor significant other has a livery. dreaded Christmas Eve birthday. Even his I am blessed with a mid-August birthday name — Christopher — echoes the omnipreswhich always meant pool parties with friends ent holiday that falls on his special day. and sun-kissed picnics in the park. I recognize Often overlooked and forgotten during the how fortunate I am — I have never received a busy holiday season, he has quite a few childtree ornament as a birthday gift — and as hood stories of birthdays spent alone at the ice such, I believe that all late December babies rink and forced “half-birthday” celebrations are fully entitled to their self-righteous whinin June that always seemed a bit lackluster. SHE SAYS ing. Sulk away Christmas babies! Because reHe is not alone in his misery. Many Caprigardless of whether or not you choose to celecorn babies are quite vocal about their illJessica Napier brate, this eternally merry and bright holiday timed birthdates and the dreaded Birthdaymetronews.ca is impossible to ignore. Christmas combo gifts. Why is it that a joint Competing with Christmas is not an option and so yulegift would be a complete outrage for an individual born in tide birthdays will inevitably become an afterthought. BirthJune but it’s totally justifiable for anyone afflicted with a Deday gifts are wrapped in snowman-print paper, tinsel garcember 25th adjacent birthdate? lands adorn the hallways instead of balloons and banners, There are even parenting blogs dedicated to helping

ZOOM

and an abundance of gingerbread cookies and candy canes are placed around the house so that requesting an actual birthday cake seems out of the question. Worse still is the absence of people willing and available to celebrate your special day. Absentee friends are out of town or suffering from holiday party fatigue. Even those high school acquaintances you never speak to are too distracted to remember to leave an obligatory ‘Happy Birthday’ Facebook wall post. Of course there are some perks: Everyone is already in a celebratory mood, you’ll probably have the day off work or school, and you’ll be surrounded by all of your family (this may or may not be a good thing). If you’re very lucky, perhaps some sympathetic friends and family will try to overcompensate with some extra special attention. But perhaps we can all take a little time this holiday season to do our part to make the neglected birthday boys and girls feel extra special. And please, no Follow Jessica Napier on combo gifts. Twitter @MetroSheSays Clickbait

LUKE SIMCOE

Metro Online

Photog captures icy bear stare

ISTOCK IMAGES

Maybe you want to save the environment. Maybe you just want to save time. Or maybe it’s Christmas Eve and you forgot to send your mother a card. No matter your reason, Metro has you covered with a few ways to use social media as a substitute for a holiday card. this simple app lets you superimpose Facebook: text onto Instagram shots. Grandma is The world’s most popular social media site is actually pretty full-featured when it comes to disseminating holiday cheer. You can craft a simple status update, tag your friends and family in a post, or upload and share a Christmasthemed photo album.

Instaquote: COURTESY PAUL SOUDERS/NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC PHOTO CONTEST

Available for both iOS and Android,

sure to love a selfie captioned with “Season’s Greetings!”

Touchnote.com:

If you just can’t go without the tactile sensation of a tacky Christmas card, consider Touchnote. The site lets you make a card using their online editor and then actually mails it for you to. No more licking stamps!

Q and A

Polar bear pic wins top award An eerie picture of a polar bear lurking beneath melting sea ice has won the grand prize of the 2013 National Geographic Photo Contest. Seattle-based photographer Paul Souders captured this striking image last year in Hudson Bay, as the setting midnight sun glowed red from the smoke of distant fires. METRO

‘Hasn’t been done before’ PAUL SOUDERS Wildlife and travel photographer, 52, based in Seattle, Wash.

How did this photograph come about? In July last year, I travelled to Churchill, Man., and in

Comments

my inflatable zodiac boat I found one bear. She swam up to an iceberg, ducked under and stayed underwater for several seconds. She hung there, just below the surface, watching me, then came up for another breath before swimming away. The polar bear looks pensive yet menacing. How does she seem to you?

It’s so spooky, knowing that the bear was peering back at me, so watchful and curious. It really feels like a moment of communion and trust for me. Why do you think it caught the judges’ eyes? It’s pretty tough to create a picture that hasn’t been done before, and I think maybe this is one of them.

RE: Nova Scotia Still Bucking Boxing Day Trend By Keeping Stores Closed On Dec. 26, published online Dec. 23 A government shouldn’t even have any say on when a business can open or not. We live in a free country. Mythos88 posted to metronews.ca

Good for N.S. and let’s keep it up. Retail workers already get so few real holiday days (because most so called ‘holidays’ only benefit students/ teachers and certain government workers) to spend with their families, now heaven forbid greedy people might have to, gasp, wait two days to buy their Boxing Day sales items! Jillian posted to metronews.ca

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU: Send us your comments: halifaxletters@metronews.ca

President Bill McDonald • Vice-President & Group Publisher, Metro Eastern Canada Greg Lutes • Editor-in-Chief Charlotte Empey • Deputy Editor Fernando Carneiro • National Deputy Editor, Digital Quin Parker • Managing Editor, Halifax Philip Croucher • Managing Editor, News & Business Amber Shortt • Managing Editor, Life & Entertainment Dean Lisk • Regional Sales Director, Metro Eastern Canada Dianne Curran • Distribution Manager April Doucette • Vice-President, Sales and Business Ventures Tracy Day • Vice-President, Creative Jeﬀ Smith • Vice-President, Finance Phil Jameson • METRO HALIFAX • 3260 Barrington St., Unit 102, Halifax NS B3K 0B5 • Telephone: 902-444-4444 • Fax: 902-422-5610 • Advertising: 902-421-5824 • adinfohalifax@metronews.ca • Distribution: halifax_distribution@metronews.ca • News tips: halifax@metronews.ca • Letters to the Editor: halifaxletters@metronews.ca

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SCENE

metronews.ca Tuesday, December 24, 2013

The worst of film in 2013 Forgettable fare. In a year of great films, there were still plenty of stinkers NED EHRBAR

bastic, tone-deaf update on Superman fails on a spectacularly higher level. Consider it a weighted grade. Moralizing, wanton destruction and clumsy product placement are a tough mix.

Yesterday we looked at some of the best films of 2013. Today, to balance out that bright note, we look at some of the dark spots of 2014.

A Good Way to Die Hard Bruce Willis further tarnishes the legacy of John McClane with this loud and un-fun entry that’s a Die Hard film in name only. Maybe he’s squinting the whole time because he can’t bear to look at what he’s creating.

Man of Steel While there may have been many technically worse films this year, Zack Snyder’s bom-

Safe Haven Romance-loving audiences deserve better than this poorly executed dreck from

Metro World News in Hollywood

Comedy

Grudge Match Director. Peter Segal Stars. Robert De Niro

••••• Rocky or Raging Bull, who would prevail in a boxing match? That’s the question asked in Grudge Match. Robert De Niro and Sylvester Stallone star as retired Pittsburgh boxers who get the chance to step back in the ring to settle a three decade old grudge and make “Kardashian sex tape” kind of money. This is a new story, occasionally funny and touching by times, but with lots of elements borrowed from other classic movies. RICHARD CROUSE

Biography/Comedy

the mind of bestseller Nicholas Sparks. From the wooden acting to the contrived plot to the limping pacing, this would’ve seemed bad as a Lifetime movie. Free Birds Kids’ movies generally get more of a pass critically, but some things we can’t let slide. Children deserve better than this odd, clumsy tale of turkeys stealing a time machine to change the menu at the first Thanksgiving. The Last Stand The kitschy 1980s action tropes that made Arnold Schwarzenegger a star just don’t work anymore, as the former CaliforBiography/Drama

The Wolf of Wall Street

Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom

Director. Martin Scorsese

Director. Justin Chadwick

Stars. Leonardo DiCaprio

Stars. Idris Elba, Naomie Harris

••••• Set during Wall Street’s cocaine and hookers era, The Wolf of Wall Street is based on real life brokers Jordan Belfort (Leonard DiCaprio) and Donnie Azoff (Jonah Hill), who snorted and scammed their way to the top, only to become the subject of an FBI investigation into financial corruption. With its fourth wall breaking narration, scandalous set pieces and absurd antics this is a wild cinematic experience. RICHARD CROUSE

••••• Nelson Mandela’s life is so astonishing even Hollywood cannot seem to bring its incredulity to life. Based on his autobiography, Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom attempts to cram the subject’s lifetime battle against apartheid into 139 minutes and the result only dilutes the measure of the late South African President’s story. It winds up more encyclopedic than epic. STEVE GOW

nia governor painfully learned when no one showed up to see his first starring vehicle since returning to acting. Bizarre character actor Peter Stormare attempting a Texas accent almost makes it worth enduring. Almost. The Host There’s a certain amount of satisfaction to be taken in watching Twilight guru Stephenie Meyer’s attempt at a follow-up franchise crash and burn, but it’s a shame it had to involve the lovely Saoirse Ronan. Still, she should come out of this fine. Delivery Man Listen, if Vince Vaughn isn’t go-

ing to bother showing up for his films anymore, why should we? Paying to watch a haggard movie star sleepwalk through scenes doesn’t sound like very much fun. Stand Up Guys Al Pacino and Christopher Walken as aging wiseguys felt like a throwback itself in all the wrong ways. And in a year dispiritingly full of signs of creeping chauvinism and misogyny, this was one of the worst offenders. Romeo and Juliet Julian Fellowes’ take on Shakespeare’s classic teens at least gave audiences a new appreciation for Baz Luhrmann.

Mandela. Film takes tough look at Winnie As it runs down the life of late anti-apartheid leader Nelson Mandela, the new film Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom also heavily features his polarizing ex-wife, Winnie MadikizelaMandela. British actress Naomie Harris, who plays the scandalplagued Madikizela-Mandela, says she thinks the South African activist “is misconstrued in a lot of ways” and the film “will help to address that.” “I’m not making excuses for any of the heinous things that Winnie is accused of, but I think what this film helps to do is to explain and bring greater understanding about why she became the woman that she became, which is really important,” she said in an interview

at September’s Toronto International Film Festival. “There’s duality in her personality, because on the one hand, yes, she did advocate necklacing and these horrific things during the apartheid regime. But on the other hand, she is ... the woman who kept Mandela’s name alive while he was in prison for 27 years. And really, if it wasn’t for her doing that, then we might all have forgotten about Mandela. She also was so active with the youth, particularly in Soweto and the anti-apartheid movement there. (It) was a violent uprising largely, in Soweto, but it was also pivotal as well to dismantling apartheid.” THE CANADIAN PRESS

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Bruce Willis wallops the legacy of John McClane for a quick paycheque in A Good Way to Die Hard. CONTRIBUTED

Studio puts the brakes on Fast & Furious sequel in wake of tragedy Universal Pictures has delayed the release of Fast & Furious 7 for almost a year following the death of star Paul Walker. The studio announced Monday that the Fast & Furious sequel will be released in April 2015, instead of July next year. Shooting on the film was about halfway finished when the 40-yearold Walker died in a car crash outside of Los Angeles. Walker still will appear in the film, though Universal has not said exactly how it will handle his unfinished performance. Co-star Vin Diesel first posted the news on Facebook, telling his fans that, “He’d want you to know first.” The Associated Press

DISH

metronews.ca Tuesday, December 24, 2013

Miley beckons us into her boudoir, but do we really want to be there? Have you guys seen this clip that’s going around from Miley’s new music video for her song Adore You? If you haven’t, because, I guess, you don’t have a google alert set up for “Miley Cyrus” like I do, here’s the relevant info: It features grainy, sex tape-esque foot-

age of Miley, er, pleasuring herself. I guess we now have the answer to the age-old question “where does one in eternal pursuit of shock value and press go, after humping a foam finger while practically naked onstage?” metro

Twitter @robdelaney ••••• Just saw a Hasidic man & 2 Asian girls laugh at a dog knocking over a garbage can so don’t even act like peace isn’t possible guys. @Brittanysnow ••••• I bet cats really hate the fact that they can’t hashtag #yolo

@RebelWilson ••••• All this reminds me of when I got kicked out of an ‘Open House’ Pretty Woman style last weekend coz the broker thought I couldn’t afford it

METRO DISH OUR TAKE ON THE WORLD OF CELEBRITIES Holidays in Hollywood

Looks like Duck Dynasty won’t be without a home pat healy

Metro World News

Aw, here’s a heartwarming story just in time for the holidays. Thanks to Hunt Channel — a Christian television network that markets almost exclusively in reality shows about Bible-lovin’, gun-totin’ folks who kill defenseless creatures for sport — Duck Dynasty will not go homeless if A&E decides to drop it on its redneck butt. A lot of people are calling for the network to pull the plug on Duck Dynasty — surprisingly one of the highest-rated reality shows of all time (proof, I think, of the rapid decline of our intelligence as a society thanks to the Internet and sexting and global warming or whatever) — after patriarch in charge Phil Robertson’s recent eloquent musings on homosexuality. And, apparently, the other Duck Dynasty cast members are among those calling for

the show to be yanked. Robertson’s brood of fellow people who like to make the duckies go bye-bye with the boom boom stick have his back, and have recently gone on record saying that they don’t want to do the show without him. Fortunately, the Hunt Channel is making it their business to ensure that they won’t have to. A Christmas miracle! According to a TMZ report, Hunt channel owner Merrill Sport thinks that A&E should “put on their big boy pants” and support the cast of Duck Dynasty for be-

ing the unapologetic bigots they are. Further, Sport is more than happy to put on his own pair of big kid trousers and air the show himself. Because, at Hunt Channel, he says, “we don’t censor our personalities.” Meaning, I guess, Hunt Channel lets their people spit as much hateful bile as they want. First Amendment and whatnot. Give them liberty or give them death! (Give them either, I could care less. But first, maybe, give them some teeth and a world view that isn’t rooted in ancient mythology or idiocy.)

WELLNESS

metronews.ca Tuesday, December 24, 2013

Healthy highs and lows this year In our look back at 2013: HIV cures, HIV scares and how a pet can save your life MICHELLE CASTILLO Metro World News

HIGH: The nextgeneration condom

Debbie didn’t do many people this year. Numerous HIV-positive test results in the U.S. porn industry forced a moratorium on production while all potentially infected performers were re-tested for the virus. Current regulations require porn stars to be tested every 14 days in the U.S., limiting the number of people who could be exposed. Still, this year’s scares lead many to call for the use of condoms on set, which has led to much debate.

No glove, no love may be the motto but many men, particularly in developing countries, remain adverse to the prophylactics. To encourage use, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation offered $100,000 to anyone that could come up with the next evolution of the male condom, with up to $1 million for additional research. Eleven ideas won the firstround funding, including a condom made out of bovine tendons or fish skin and a couple versions made out of a crystallized form of carbon called graphene that can conduct heat.

HIGH: A big year for ART

HIGH: Get a pet, save your life

Across the world, more than 5 million screaming bundles of joy are born to people who may otherwise never have the experience of having a child without fertility treatments. The International Committee for the Monitoring of Assisted Reproductive Technology (ICMART), who announced the landmark number in October, noted that the first ART baby was born in 1978 using in vitro fertilization. However, more than half of the 5 million ART babies have been born in just the last six years, meaning the technology is improving.

If you need another reason to convince yourself to get a pet, the American Heart Association confirmed what was once an old wives’ tale: that having a pet was linked to lower heart disease, lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol levels and lower levels of obesity. Owning a dog was particularly shown to lower cardiovascular risk, maybe because dogs force you to get off your couch and walk them.

HIGH: Baby “cured” of HIV While a cure for HIV and AIDS still remains elusive, doctors in Mississippi claimed to have eradicated the HIV virus from a baby by giving her a three-drug regiment within 30 hours of her birth. The mother of the child had not received any pre-natal treatment to prevent transmission, and a blood test had determined that the child was HIV positive at the time of birth. The child, who was two and a half years old at the time of the March announcement, no longer has any traces of the HIV virus in her blood.

The next-gen condom couldn’t have come sooner. THINKSTOCK

HIGH: Face transplants The practice of transplanting another person’s face onto a patient has been around for a few years — and not just on Nip/Tuck. This year, however, marked many improvements in the field. Polish doctors claimed to complete the world’s fastest face transplant — a 27-hour procedure just three weeks after the patient’s accident. Meanwhile, several patients in the U.S. who received facial transplants in 2012 were shown to have improved blood flow, more blood vessel pathways and improved facial sensation just one year later.

LOW: Emergency birth control doesn’t work … sometimes European pharmaceutical regulators approved a warning label change that would alert users of Norlevo (levonorgestrel) that it loses potency for women over 165 pounds and does not work in women over 176 pounds. The morning-after pill is a form of emergency birth control that was supposed to prevent pregnancy within 72 hours after having unprotected sexual intercourse. However, with the weight limits, it seems many women may not be able to use it.

LOW: Heroin-like drug spreads overseas For years, Russia has battled a problem with krokodil or desomorphine, an opioid drug in the same family as heroin and oxycodone. It is more potent than morphine, and is easily made with codeine, paint thinner, gasoline and other over-the-counter products. It also is so toxic that it causes flesh to rot off the user’s bones, and the average abuser dies two to three years after beginning to use. Now, evidence shows the drug is spreading across the world, with the first cases reported in the U.S. in September.

LIFE

LOW: U.S. porn industry shuts down three times due to HIV scare

FOOD

metronews.ca Tuesday, December 24, 2013

Lean pork tenderloin gets a flavour boost from prosciutto, mushrooms and fresh herbs My choice for an elegant holiday dinner? It’s hard to beat a roast, and more often than not my pick is a lean and moist pork tenderloin. But let’s face it, as much as we want to be healthy, there is such a thing as roast that is too lean. A lack of fat often means a lack of flavour. So how to make up this deficit? With plenty of high-flavour ingredients such as prosciutto, fresh herbs, mushrooms and wine.

Double Pork Roast with Mushroom Marsala Sauce

Ingredients • 2 pork tenderloin roasts

1. Heat the oven to 350 F. Cut

down through each tenderloin lengthwise so that you can open it up like a book, but do not cut all the way through. Sprinkle water on the cutting board under the tenderloin and sprinkle a little water on top of the tenderloin (this will help prevent the meat from tearing when you pound it). Cover the tenderloin with plastic wrap and pound the meat using a meat mallet or rolling pin until it is about 1/2inch thick.

This recipe serves six. The Associated Press

2. Sprinkle half the rosemary

and thyme leaves all over the inside of each butterflied and pounded pork tenderloin and spread the prosciutto evenly in one layer over the herbs. Beginning with the long end, roll up the tenderloin tightly, tuck-

ing in the ends (as you would a burrito). Use kitchen twine to tie the roll in a bundle, tying it every 2 inches.

In a large nonstick skillet over medium-high, heat 1 tablespoon of the oil. Season the pork lightly on all sides

with salt and pepper, then add it to the skillet. Sear until golden brown on all sides. Transfer the pork to a shallow baking pan, then roast on the oven’s middle shelf until the centre reaches 145 F, about 20 to 25 minutes. Remove the pork from the oven and cover

(3/4 to 1 lb each), trimmed of all fat • 2 tbsp packed fresh rosemary leaves, chopped • 2 tbsp packed fresh thyme leaves, chopped • 4 oz thinly sliced prosciutto • 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil, divided • Kosher salt and ground black pepper • 1/2 cup finely chopped shallots or onion • 1/2 lb mushrooms (cremini, white button, shiitake, oyster or a mix), trimmed and sliced • 1/2 cup dry Marsala wine • 1 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth • 1 tbsp all-purpose flour

loosely with foil.

Meanwhile, make the sauce. Return the skillet to

medium heat. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil and the shallots and cook, stirring, until the shallots are golden. Add the mushrooms and cook, stirring often, until the mushrooms give off all their liquid and are lightly browned.

Add the Marsala and simmer until almost all of it is reduced. Add 1 cup of the chicken broth and bring back to a boil. In a small bowl whisk the remaining 1/4 cup of chicken broth with the flour. Add the flour mixture to the skillet in a stream while whisking and simmer for 2 minutes. Add any juices that have accumulated from the resting pork to the sauce.

6. Slice the pork crosswise into 1-inch-thick slices. Transfer several slices to each of 6 serving plates. Spoon some of the mushroom sauce over each serving. Sara Moulton/The Associated Press

RELATIONSHIPS/your money

metronews.ca Tuesday, December 24, 2013

Five steps to becoming a millionaire Entrepreneurship. Kim Kaupe describes how to go it alone, even if you don’t have start-up cash or a business background

Quoted

“If you have an idea, tell everyone you can. You never know who that person might know.” Kim Kaupe, co-founder of ZinePak

Emily Laurence

Metro World News

Three years ago, 28-year-old Kim Kaupe quit her job to pursue a business idea she brainstormed with her cofounder. Now, she’s the head of multi-million dollar company ZinePak. Like many people who have a gem of an idea, Kaupe didn’t have a business background or any startup money. Still, she went for it. Kaupe shares her tips with us so you can pursue your own great idea. 1. Find a hole in the marketplace “I worked at Brides magazine for two years and then got a job at an ad agency. One of my co-workers at the agency used to work at Sony Records. We hatched this idea of putting magazines and music together, and out came ZinePak. We wanted to create special packages for fans. It was something that didn’t exist before.” 2. Partner with someone who

has strengths you lack “My business partner and I fit together perfectly because one of us has the strengths that the other person doesn’t. Find someone you gel with and shares your views, but also brings a unique perspective.” 3. Tell everyone your idea “There’s this common misconception that when you come up with a great idea, you have to keep it to yourself because someone will steal it. It’s really the opposite. If you have an idea, tell everyone you can. You never know who that person might know. Or, they could have a way for you to improve your idea that you haven’t thought of. We changed our entire product based on a suggestion a random customer emailed us. It pays to listen — literally.” 4. If you’re not an expert, find people who are “Neither my partner nor I had a background in business. Going to meet-ups was essential for

Kim Kaupe, co-founder of ZinePak, suggests attending small-business meetups and finding ways to keep your overhead low. Contributed

growing our business. There are meet-ups for everything: small business owner meetups, tech meet-ups, entrepreneur meet-ups... When I first started out, I thought I was the only person in the world who faced certain problems. But chances are, most other entre-

preneurs that you talk to have wanted to throw their Quickbooks out the window too and might have a great suggestion that can help you. Whatever you need to learn how to do that you can’t Google, there’s someone out there who can help you.”

5. Keep your overhead low “The first year, my business partner and I worked from home using only our computers, cellphones and brains. It was just us hustling and cold calling, saying ‘Let us make this awesome product for you.’ The less supplies

you have to buy, the more money you’ll make. Think, do you really need a warehouse or paper printing machine? Chances are there’s a company out there who it’s cheaper to pay than renting space or buying all the materials yourself.”

How to eat, drink and stay healthy this holiday Seasonal hazards. Between overindulging and contracting colds, this time of year can take a toll on your vigor The holidays are a time to burn your candles at both ends, but you have to be careful to not flame out. The pressure created by a combination of social events, family get-togethers, shopping and financial stress can easily weaken or overwhelm your immune system. Eating Make sure you neither eat too much, nor too little. Overindulging will not only put on a few extra holiday pounds, but makes you more likely to develop esophageal reflux from a distended stomach at bedtime. This overnight trickle of stomach acid bubbling up into the back of your

Pace yourself: try to have a glass of water for each glass of alcohol. Istock

throat while lying flat in bed can not only cause heartburn but may also lead to a sore throat or dry cough. This is not only a nuisance that is often mistaken for an upper respiratory infection (common cold), but may actually increase your odds of

getting a sinus infection or bronchitis by decreasing your resistance. Eating too little may make you more likely to get intoxicated, as the alcohol in a glass of holiday cheer is absorbed much more quickly from an empty stomach.

Drinking With so many social obligations and reasons to celebrate, there is ample opportunity to drink alcohol on a daily basis — and lots of it. “Everything in moderation” should be your motto. Try to drink a glass of water with each alcoholic beverage (one for one). No matter your sex, weight or choice of adult beverage, if you have two or more drinks in under two hours, you will likely be impaired. Don’t drink and drive, and don’t let your friends drink and drive. Work out a designated driver in advance with friends, take a taxi or public transportation and don’t be afraid to ask if you can sleep over at your host’s or friend’s home if driving under the influence is your only other option. Drinking coffee will not sober you up. Being healthy The 2013-14 influenza sea-

son has officially arrived in North America and there are any variety of cold viruses around that have been making people miserable with sore throats, nasal congestion and coughs. Shaking hands,

kissing under the mistletoe and travelling on a plane can all spread illness rapidly. Get a flu shot, wash your hands frequently, keep your hands away from your face and blow kisses where you can. Metro

SPORTS

metronews.ca Tuesday, December 24, 2013

Huskies still savouring journey to hockey gold Universiade. It took round-robin loss for Team Canada to put their championship hopes into perspective ANDREW RANKIN

andrew.rankin@metronews.ca

Cory Tanaka had doubts that Team Canada could win gold in Italy. The Saint Mary’s Huskies forward was among the 21 AUS all-stars that got off to an explosive start at the Winter Universiade men’s hockey championship, steamrolling Japan and Ukraine by a combined score of 23-1 in their opening roundrobin games. But they were facing the world’s best university hockey players. On Dec. 15, in their final preliminary-round match, Tanaka and Co. were promptly stunned by a 4-2 loss at the hands of tournament favourite Kazakhstan. But Tanaka’s disappointment turned to optimism, witnessing his teammates’ resolve in the face of abrupt adversity. “You felt it, just the way we got together and everyone just really believed that we had the skill and the ability to be better and we had this faith and trust in each other that I didn’t have before,” said Tanaka. That bond would be tested in last Wednesday’s quarterfinals, in which the Canucks faced Slovakia. Canada dominated in a 6-0 victory, and then two days later edged the Russians, another tournament favourite, 2-1.

Team Canada celebrates their gold medal win at the Winter Universiade men’s hockey championship on Sunday. CONTRIBUTED

Huskies forward Cory Tanaka

Huskies captain Lucas Bloodoff

COURTESY CIS

Naturally, Saturday’s gold medal game was a rematch: Canada vs. Kazakhstan.

Tanaka went into the battle with three of his Huskies teammates, goalie Anthony Peters,

Michael D’Orazio and St Mary’s captain Lucas Bloodoff, not to mention Dalhousie Tigers’ Pierre Vandall. They were ready for revenge. And an early Kazakhstan goal did nothing to shake their confidence. “Fifteen seconds in they scored and we were still positive, no one was hanging their head. We were confident,” said Bloodoff. Canada promptly rattled off three unanswered first-period goals en route to a 6-2 victory. Peters finished with 19 saves. Bloodoff, Tanaka and D’Orazio each ended up with an assist. Speaking on Monday night, Bloodoff was still trying to absorb the achievement.

He was already looking forward to sharing it with his teammates, who he had met for Christmas dinner at Huskies head coach Trevor Stienburg’s home. “It took so much to win, to achieve something like that,” said Bloodoff. “First of all, we were able to come together in such a short amount of time and become so close. I’ve never seen so many blocked shots before; I never seen so many guys willing to sacrifice anything to win, I feel so lucky to have gone through it and I get to share it with the guys. “It’s so special, it’s just really hard to put it into words.... Pretty incredible, that’s for sure. It just hasn’t settled in yet.”

Rainmen stuck in another skid The Halifax Rainmen can add one more loss to their dismal record. The Rainmen returned home from a three-game Ontario road swing with just losses to show for it. After dropping two previous games to the London Lightning and Windsor Express on Thursday and Fri-

day, the Rainmen faced their biggest test against the firstplace 15-5 Brampton A’s, and fell well short in a 107-92 defeat on Monday night. The Rainmen got off to a miserable start, falling behind 25-12 after the first quarter. And, after outscoring the A’s 59-52 in the second and third quarters, the Rain-

On Monday

107 92 A’s

Rainmen

men fell apart in crunch

time, and the A’s powered their way to victory, outscoring the visitors 30-21 in the final quarter. The Rainmen didn’t help themselves, either, going 4-15 from beyond the arc and making just 13 of 26 freethrow attempts. With the loss, the Rainmen fall to 2-14 and remain

last in the National Basketball League of Canada standings. Brampton’s Scottie Haralson led all scorers with 20 points while Jason Williams and Raven Barber paced Halifax with 15 points each. The Rainmen hit the road again to take on the Island Storm on Boxing Day. ANDREW RANKIN/METRO

SPORTS

metronews.ca Tuesday, December 24, 2013

Leafs go into Christmas break cold ronto and said the goal should stand. “In my opinion, that was the wrong call,” Rangers coach Alain Vigneault said. “The referee told Brad (Richards) on the ice that if they didn’t score on the wraparound, then it wasn’t a goal. They didn’t score on the wraparound. “The puck was underneath Cam’s pad. How (the reviewers) saw it differently, I’m not quite sure. You’ve just got to play through those things, and that’s what we did.” The Rangers held off the Maple Leafs in a spirited overtime that produced several scoring chances and then outlasted them in the shootout. Zuccarello and Stepan scored in the first two rounds, and Talbot stopped Kadri in the third to end it. Joffrey Lupul was the only Toronto player to score in the tiebreaker. Talbot was relieved the Rangers pulled out the victory. “I would have been pretty devastated, especially with the game we played,” he said. “We deserved to win the game, and to get a goal like that against us

could have really hurt us, but we kind of let it go, pushed forward.” Jonathan Bernier was exceptional for Toronto, making 42 saves through overtime and allowing only J.T. Miller’s goal 7:04 into the third period. The Maple Leafs played their third straight shootout and lost for the second consecutive time. They are 2-5-2 in their last nine. “We played a very solid road game,” Toronto captain Dion Phaneuf said. “It was very good to get a point.” Talbot, starting over slumping No. 1 netminder Henrik Lundqvist for the second straight game, bounced back from the late goal and improved to 8-2 in his first NHL season. The Associated Press

EASTERN CONFERENCE

WESTERN CONFERENCE

WEEK 16

ATLANTIC DIVISION

CENTRAL DIVISION

Boston Tampa Bay Montreal Detroit Toronto Ottawa Florida Buffalo

Chicago St. Louis Colorado Minnesota Dallas Winnipeg Nashville

NHL. Bernier gives his best, but Buds fall to Rangers in shootout

Leafs goalie Jonathan Bernier prepares for a shot from Rangers forward Rick Nash on Monday night at Madison Square Garden. Frank Franklin II/The Associated Press World juniors

Drouin, Horvat, McDavid help Canada top Swiss Jonathan Drouin scored twice to lead Canada’s national junior hockey squad to a 4-1 exhibition win over Switzerland on Monday. It was the final tune-up for Canada, which opens the world junior tournament Thursday against Germany. Canada finished with a 2-1 exhibition record but was coming off a 3-0 loss to Sweden on Sunday. Bo Horvat and Connor McDavid had the other goals for Canada. Jake Paterson stopped 23 shots in goal. Yannick Rathgeb replied for Switzerland while Melvin Nyffeler made 29 saves. Rathgeb opened the scoring on the power play just 1:21 into the first period. But Drouin countered with power-play goals at 15:31 and 17:02 to put Canada ahead to stay. Horvat scored shorthanded at 19:51 of the second before McDavid rounded out the scoring at 4:38 of the third. The Canadian Press

NFL. 49ers clinch playoff berth in Candlestick’s regular-season finale In one emphatic finish, NaVorro Bowman, Colin Kaepernick and the San Francisco 49ers sealed their post-season berth in a celebratory regular-season finale at Candlestick Park. Bowman returned an interception 89 yards for a touchdown with 1:10 remaining, and the 49ers clinched a playoff berth with a wild 34-24 victory against the Atlanta Falcons on Monday night that likely was the final game at San Francisco’s longtime home. Tramaine Brock broke up a pass intended for Harry Douglas and Bowman got his hands on the ball and took off. He was joined in the end zone by his teammates for a jubilant dog pile. “I always say a lot of plays are made when you run to the ball,” Bowman said. “That’s all I was doing was just running to the ball, trying to make a tackle, and it popped up and I was able to make a play for my team.” Matt Ryan threw a 39-yard touchdown pass to Roddy White with 8:42 remaining and a two-yard score to Tony Gonzalez with 2:09 left as the Falcons (4-11) made things interesting until the end.

The New York Rangers escaped with two points they believed they deserved even though they gave up a goal they felt the Toronto Maple Leafs didn’t earn. Mats Zuccarello and Derek Stepan scored shootout goals, and backup goalie Cam Talbot earned his second win in two nights as the Rangers shook off a late tying tally and beat the Maple Leafs 2-1 Monday night. The game was forced into overtime because of Nazem Kadri’s goal with 1:24 left in regulation — one the Rangers thought shouldn’t have counted. After a wraparound attempt, David Clarkson took two whacks at the puck at the right post, and Talbot appeared to cover it, but Kadri came in and poked it in under Talbot’s pad. The NHL reviewed it in To-

NHL

Anquan Boldin of the 49ers catches a pass over the Falcons’ Robert McClain on Monday. getty IMages

Atlanta’s Jason Snelling recovered the ensuing onside kick as the Falcons got the ball back and were driving for a potential go-ahead score when San Francisco (11-4) capitalized with one of its biggest takeaways yet. Kaepernick ran for a fouryard touchdown and threw a 10-yard TD pass to Anquan Boldin, and Frank Gore had a one-yard touchdown run as the 49ers used a big second half to clinch a third straight playoff season and fifth consecutive victory. The Associated Press

Rangers

Maple Leafs

NFL GP 37 37 38 39 39 39 38 37

W L OL GF GA Pt 25 10 2 106 77 52 23 11 3 106 87 49 22 13 3 96 84 47 17 13 9 99 108 43 18 16 5 106 113 41 15 17 7 111 126 37 14 19 5 88 123 33 10 24 3 66 105 23

METROPOLITAN DIVISION Pittsburgh Washington Philadelphia NY Rangers New Jersey Columbus Carolina NY Islanders

On Monday

GP 39 37 37 38 38 37 37 38

W L OL GF GA Pt 27 11 1 121 88 55 19 14 4 117 112 42 17 16 4 93 104 38 18 18 2 88 102 38 15 16 7 92 99 37 16 17 4 101 106 36 14 15 8 86 105 36 11 20 7 96 129 29

Monday’s results NY Rangers 2 Toronto 1 (SO) Ottawa 5 Pittsburgh 0 NY Islanders 3 Detroit 0 Tampa Bay 6 Florida 1 Anaheim 3 Washington 2 Columbus 4 Carolina 3 Buffalo 2 Phoenix 1 (OT) Philadelphia 4 Minnesota 1 Chicago 5 New Jersey 2 Boston 6 Nashville 2 Calgary 4 St. Louis 3 (SO) Edmonton 6 Winnipeg 2 Dallas at Los Angeles Colorado at San Jose Sunday’s results NY Rangers 4 Minnesota 1 Vancouver 2 Winnipeg 1 Friday’s games Ottawa at Boston, 7 p.m. Buffalo at Toronto, 7 p.m. Pittsburgh at Carolina, 7 p.m. Columbus at New Jersey, 7 p.m. NY Rangers at Washington, 7 p.m. Colorado at Chicago, 8 p.m. Minnesota at Winnipeg, 8 p.m. Nashville at Dallas, 8:30 p.m. Edmonton at Calgary, 9 p.m. San Jose at Phoenix, 9 p.m.

GP W L OL GF GA Pt 39 26 7 6 145 107 58 36 24 7 5 128 85 53 35 23 10 2 102 83 48 39 20 14 5 88 96 45 35 17 12 6 101 105 40 39 16 18 5 103 116 37 37 16 17 4 85 109 36

PACIFIC DIVISION GP W L OL GF GA Pt Anaheim 39 27 7 5 127 98 59 Los Angeles 37 25 8 4 104 71 54 San Jose 36 22 8 6 116 90 50 Vancouver 39 22 11 6 106 93 50 Phoenix 36 19 10 7 111 110 45 Calgary 37 14 17 6 95 118 34 Edmonton 39 12 24 3 101 135 27 Note: 2 points for a win, 1 point for overtime loss. Saturday’s games Detroit at Florida, 7 p.m. Boston at Ottawa, 7 p.m. Montreal at Tampa Bay, 7 p.m. New Jersey at NY Islanders, 7 p.m. Los Angeles at Nashville, 8 p.m. Chicago at St. Louis, 8 p.m. Phoenix at Anaheim, 8 p.m. Philadelphia at Edmonton, 10 p.m.

SCORING LEADERS Crosby, Pgh Kane, Chi Getzlaf, Ana Ovechkin, Wash Malkin, Pgh Backstrom, Wash Perry, Ana Kunitz, Pgh Steen, StL Tavares, NYI Thornton, SJ Seguin, Dal Marleau, SJ Sharp, Chi St. Louis, TBL Karlsson, Ott Kessel, Tor Duchene, Col

G A Pt 20 34 54 21 27 48 19 24 43 30 11 41 9 32 41 8 33 41 22 18 40 20 19 39 24 14 38 13 25 38 5 32 37 18 17 35 16 19 35 16 18 34 15 19 34 9 25 34 17 16 33 16 17 33

Monday’s games not included

Monday’s result San Francisco 34 Atlanta 24 Sunday’s results Cincinnati 42 Minnesota 14 N.Y. Jets 24 Cleveland 13 Denver 37 Houston 13 Indianapolis 23 Kansas City 7 St. Louis 23 Tampa Bay 13 Buffalo 19 Miami 0 Tennessee 20 Jacksonville 16 Dallas 24 Washington 23 Carolina 17 New Orleans 13 N.Y. Giants 23 Detroit 20 (OT) Arizona 17 Seattle 10 Pittsburgh 38 Green Bay 31 New England 41 Baltimore 7 San Diego 26 Oakland 13 Philadelphia 54 Chicago 11

NBA Monday’s results Charlotte 111 Milwaukee 110 (OT) New York 103 Orlando 98 Detroit 115 Cleveland 92 Indiana 103 Brooklyn 86 Memphis 104 Utah 94 Dallas 111 Houston 104 Miami 122 Atlanta 121 (OT) San Antonio 112 Toronto 99 Golden State 89 Denver 81 Phoenix 117 L.A. Lakers 90 New Orleans at Sacramento Sunday’s results Indiana 106 Boston 79 Toronto 104 Oklahoma City 98 L.A. Clippers 120 Minnesota 116 (OT) Wednesday’s games Chicago at Brooklyn, noon Oklahoma City at New York, 2:30 p.m. Miami at L.A. Lakers, 5 p.m. Houston at San Antonio, 8 p.m. L.A. Clippers at Golden State, 10:30 p.m. Thursday’s games Atlanta at Cleveland, 7 p.m. Memphis at Houston, 8 p.m. San Antonio at Dallas, 8:30 p.m. L.A. Clippers at Portland, 10:30 p.m.

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All pricing excludes freight ($1,595 – $1,695), licence, insurance, registration, any retailer administration fees, other retailer charges and other applicable fees and taxes. Retailer order/trade may be necessary. Retailer may sell for less. €$10,000 in Total Discounts is available on new 2014 Ram 1500 models (excluding Reg Cab) and consists of $8,500 in Consumer Cash Discounts and $1,500 in Holiday Bonus Cash. See your retailer for complete details. ★The Make No Payments for 90 Days offer applies to retail customers who finance a new 2014 Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge or Ram vehicle (except 2014 Dodge Avenger CVP and Dodge Viper) or eligible 2013 Dodge Dart, Ram Heavy Duty or Fiat model at a special fixed rate on approved credit through Royal Bank of Canada, TD Auto Finance or Scotiabank between December 10, 2013 and January 2, 2014. Offer does not apply to Scotiabank special rate financing contracts longer than 90 months. Monthly payments will be deferred for 60 days and contracts will be extended accordingly. Interest charges will not accrue during the first 60 days of the contract. Customers will be responsible for any required down payment, licence, registration and insurance costs at time of contract. Some conditions apply. See your retailer for complete details. •$18,995 Purchase Price applies to the new 2014 Dodge Grand Caravan Canada Value Package (29E) and includes $8,100 Consumer Cash Discount. $24,995 Purchase Price applies to the new 2014 Ram 1500 Quad Cab SXT 4x4 (25A+AGR+XFH) only and includes $8,500 Consumer Cash Discount and $1,500 Holiday Bonus Cash. $18,995 Purchase Price applies to the new 2014 Dodge Journey Canada Value Package (22F) only and includes $2,000 Consumer Cash Discount. $15,495 Purchase Price applies to the new 2013 Dodge Dart SE (25A) only and includes $500 Holiday Bonus Cash. *Consumer Cash Discounts are offered on select 2013/2014 vehicles and are deducted from the negotiated price before taxes. ¥Holiday Bonus Cash of up to $1,500 is available on most new 2013 Dodge Dart, Ram Heavy Duty trucks and FIAT models (excluding the FIAT 500 Pop and Ram Cab & Chassis) and on most new 2014 Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram and FIAT models, excluding the following: Chrysler 200 LX, Dodge Dart, Grand Caravan CVP, Journey CVP/SE, Avenger CVP, Viper, Jeep Compass Sport 4x2/4x4, Patriot Sport 4x2/4x4, Cherokee, Ram 1500 Reg Cab trucks, Ram Cab & Chassis, Ram Cargo Van, Ram ProMaster, FIAT 500 Pop, 500C, 500T and Abarth models. Bonus Cash will be deducted from the negotiated price after taxes. See your retailer for complete details. ∞NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Contest begins November 27, 2013 at 9:00:00 a.m. AT and ends February 28, 2014 at 11:59:59 p.m. AT. Contest open to legal residents of Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland and Labrador or New Brunswick who have reached the age of majority at the time of entry. One (1) entry per person. To enter, you must visit any participating Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Ram retailer during the contest period and purchase/finance/lease any new 2012, 2013 or 2014 Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge or Ram vehicle (excluding SRT Viper models). Three (3) grand prizes available to be won, each consisting of a pair of VIP tickets and trip to watch the 2014 Battle of Ontario in Ottawa on April 12, 2014. Tickets are for April 12 ONLY. Prize includes round trip travel for two and two night’s hotel accommodation (if required). Approx. retail value (based on Halifax departure): $5,000 per prize. Mathematical skill-testing question required. For complete contest rules, including no purchase means of entry, go to: www.chrysleroffers.ca/battleofontario/atl. §2014 Dodge Grand Caravan Crew Plus shown. Price includes Consumer Cash Discount. 2014 Ram 1500 Crew Cab Laramie shown. Price includes Consumer Cash Discount and $1,500 Holiday Bonus Cash. 2014 Dodge Journey R/T AWD shown. Price includes Consumer Cash Discount. 2013 Dodge Dart GT with optional 18-inch hyper black wheels shown. Price includes $500 Holiday Bonus Cash. ≠Based on Automotive News classification and 2013/2014 Ram 1500 3.6 L V6 4x2 and 8-speed transmission. 11.4 L/100 km (25 MPG) City and 7.8 L/100 km (36 MPG) Highway. Based on 2013 EnerGuide fuel consumption guide ratings published by Natural Resources Canada. Government of Canada test methods used. Your actual fuel consumption will vary based on powertrain, driving habits and other factors. Ask your retailer for complete EnerGuide information. ^Based on R. L. Polk Canada, Inc. May 2008 to September 2013 Canadian Total New Vehicle Registration data for Crossover Segments as defined by Chrysler Canada Inc. **Based on 2013 Ward’s upper small sedan costing under $25,000. ❖Real Deals. Real Time. Use your mobile device to build and price any model. ®Jeep is a registered trademark of Chrysler Group LLC. TMThe SiriusXM logo is a registered trademark of SiriusXM Satellite Radio Inc.

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metronews.ca Tuesday, December 24, 2013

Buick Regal could rule the roads

2014 Buick Regal. One step closer to being first choice over a Euro sedan instead of an alternative MALCOLM GUNN wheelbasemedia.com

The Euro-inspired, North America-built Buick Regal represents a significant shift in thinking for General Motors’ entry-premium division. Since its 2012-model-yeararrival, the Regal has dared to challenge similar BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Audi offerings. It has also become a viable alternative for mid-size entryluxury buyers, regardless of national origin. Along with the subsequent introduction of the smaller Verano sedan and even smaller Encore wagon, Buick has likely left the dwindling knot of traditional Buick buyers wondering what has become of their cherished brand. Inside, the reshaped dashboard has a 4.2-inch (10.7 centimetre) display screen between the dual gauge pods that shows basic vehicle info. In addition, a new eight-inch (20-centimetre) touch screen for the climate, navigation, communications and infotainment systems can also be operated through steering-wheel controls. Under the hood has been simplified. Previously, you could pick between the base turbo-charged 2.0-litre fourcylinder engine with 220 horsepower and 258-pound-feet of torque, and a version that made 270 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque (the GS

model). Newly optional for turbo models is an all-wheeldrive system that in normal driving splits the torque equally between the front and rear tires, but can deploy up to 90 per cent to the rears when the front wheels start to lose traction. AWD is not offered for the optional (and non-turbocharged) 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine that combines with a 15-horsepower electric motor and lithium-ion battery pack to make 182 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque. The partial-hybrid system, called eAssist, controls the car’s stop-start function to conserve fuel at stoplights and in stop-and-go traffic. The eAssist also kicks in when the Regal is accelerating, but unlike a “full hybrid” powertrain, the electric motor never operates independently of the gas engine. A six-speed automatic is the sole eAssist transmission choice. The AWD option allows the Regal to keep up with the changing times and the competition, as does the availability of camera-based blind-spot warning and cross-traffic alerts, the latter of which points out traffic that’s crossing into your backup path. There’s also forwardcollision warning that lets you know when you’re too close to traffic in front. Regal shoppers can choose from base, Premium I, Premium II and GS models. For $34,800 (including destination charges), the base car arrives with a considerable load of gear, including dual-zone climate control, leather seat covers (heated in front), 12-way power driver’s seat and an elec-

2014 Buick Regal

•Type. Four-door, front- /allwheel-drive mid-size sedan

•Engines (hp). 2.0-litre DOHC I4, turbocharged (259); 2.4-litre DOHC I4 (182)

•Transmissions. Six-speed auto-

Design

For the 2014 model year, the Regal receives midproduction cycle adjustments that begin with front and rear restyling, including a more prominent grille plus new front and rear LED lighting.

matic; six-speed manual (opt.)

•Base price (incl. destination). $34,800

Fuel economy

For 2014, it’s down to a single turbo engine pegged at 259 horsepower and a stout 295 pound-feet. It’s rated at 10.1 l/100 km in the city and 6.6 on the highway with the six-speed automatic transmission, and 10.2/6.3 with the sixspeed manual (available only with the GS).

Compare

Acura TL Base price: $42,000

The Buick’s interface can change depending on what you want to know.

tric parking brake. Other items, such as a power sunroof, navigation with rear-vision camera and an up-level nine-speaker Bose-brand sound system, are added as you move up the trim levels. At the GS plateau, the standard-equipment list encompasses unique front- and rear-end designs, aero side cladding and rear spoiler, and available 20-inch wheels (19-inchers are standard GS fare, while 17s come on eAssist models). GS

models also arrive with larger Brembo-brand front brakes, sport suspension setup and a selectable GS sport mode that increases steering effort, firms up the shock damping and alters the transmission shift points for more spirited driving. Anyway you slice it, the Regal’s broader appeal and competitive price tag places it in a closer league with its European and North American mid-size sedan rivals and is a real feather in Buick’s cap.

Cadillac ATS Base price: $37,000

Volvo S60 Base price: $40,850

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metronews.ca Tuesday, December 24, 2013

Parts department wheelbase media

Staying safe on roads this festive season Driving Force. First and foremost consider all the elements and pay specific attention to tire traction and speed

Outdoor protection The inventors of CarCapsule now make a similar model for outdoor use. This extra durable version’s 12-volt high-pressure fan with its washable filter keeps the CarCapsule inflated and the “Evaporative Storage System” changes the inside air three to four times per hour to eliminate moisture from condensing on the vehicle. The 18 by 6.5 by 5.7-foot (5.5 by 2.0- by 1.7-metre) sells for $679 US. Order at carcapsule. com.

Won’t kick the bucket Washing and waxing the family bus can be a pain with all that bending and stooping for the bucket. The Bucket Taxi is designed to keep the soapy contents of your bucket close at hand and it’s on wheels so you can move it exactly where it’s needed without lifting. Pick up the Bucket Taxi for $60 US at buckettaxi.com.

Star cars in one spot

jil mcintosh

A company with the offbeat name of Calm The Ham has created a unique 24 by 36-inch poster entitled Filmography of Cars. Among its 71 illustrations it features the 1958 Plymouth Fury from the movie Christine and the 1932 Ford hot rod from American Graffiti. Filmography of Cars sells for $44 US at calmtheham. com.

In winter weather, you’re always being told to “drive for the conditions.” But do you know exactly what that means, and how to stay safe? “You need to consider snow, ice, slush, darkness, traffic, glare, and how your car responds to cold,” says Scott Marshall, director of training for Young Drivers of Canada. “You’re not going to have the traction, nor will the drivers around you, so don’t put your life in the hands of the driver next to you.” Whenever possible, don’t stay alongside other vehicles, but drive in a staggered formation. That way, if a driver nearby slides and fishtails, there’s far less chance you’ll get hit. Posted speed limits are for ideal conditions, which means on dry roads and with good visibility. Any time that’s not the case, reduce your speed. If you’re on the highway and you have to drive very slowly to feel safe, get off and take a lower-speed road. Braking distance gets much longer the faster you’re going, and it will take even longer to stop on slippery roads. “The first mistake people make is judging their following distances in car lengths, instead of time,” Marshall says. “When the car

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Tips

• Kit. Keep a personal kit in your car, including gloves, hat, emergency candle with lighter, and non-perishable food items. Women who wear high heels should pack a pair of flat-heeled boots. • Cleanliness. Always clean all the snow off your car completely before driving, including all windows, headlights, and taillights. Homelessness can Happen to anyone. Visit Raising tHe Roof.oRg to Help.

• Washer fluid. Carry an extra jug of washer fluid in your vehicle at all times.

Expect the unexpected and make sure you don’t get stranded.

Always consider the elements and lower your speed.

in front passes something like a light pole, start counting. In normal conditions in the city, you should be two seconds from the driver ahead. Highway speed is three seconds, and once you add slippery conditions, you need to increase that significantly.” Winter tires always give you better traction, even on dry roads, any time the thermometer falls below 7C. At that temperature, their softer compound means they’re better able to grip the road than allseason tires. Checking the tire pressure regularly will also ensure that the tires can do their job properly.

ford

chrysler

If there’s a snow plow in front of you, stay at least 7 meters (25 feet) behind it. “Give them a chance to clear the road,” Marshall says. Be careful crossing any snow windows the plow leaves behind, since they will affect your control. Should the weather be really bad, stay home if you can. If you’re on the highway and run into bad conditions, get off at the next exit and look for someplace to wait it out, such as a restaurant or hotel. “Being on the shoulder of the highway is not the safest place to stop and wait for a few hours,” Marshall says. “Don’t get stranded.”

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metronews.ca Tuesday, December 24, 2013

The 2014 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 Dream Car Put together from existing parts, it’s a true hotrod Camaro built for the speed lovers MALCOLM GUNN wheelbasemedia.com

You would think that the most expensive street-legal Camaro coupe ever made would at least include air conditioning, a fancy stereo, power-adjustable seats and possibly a competition-beating supercharged engine. But that’s not the case with the Z/28, a designation that conjures up images of high-winding, race-bred Camaros dating back to 1967. However, you likely won’t hear any price complaints from eager buyers who are expected to gobble up the first year’s production run of 1,500 vehicles as fast as they depart the factory floor beginning in early 2014. Although more than capable on the street, the “Z” was really created (or recreated, since the Z/28 label along with the previousgeneration Camaro were retired after the 2002 model year) to perform in stellar fashion in competition. For drivers who would rather put in some fast laps around the racetrack than putt their way around a golf course on weekends, this is the Camaro of their dreams. For such a low-volume model, Chevy’s engineers invested considerable time and effort to ensure the Z/28 will live up to its past glory and lay a beating on high-priced competitors. Part of that process included pruning some weight, including the deletion of the power-seat adjusters, eliminating the rear-seat frame and trunk pass-through structure, installing thinner rear window glass and transferring the air conditioning unit over to the options list. Additionally, Chevrolet has reduced the wheel diameter to 19 inches from the 20-inch units used on the Camaro SS 1LE track car and ZL1 models, thus eliminating 18.6 kilograms in unsprung weight while lowering the car’s centre of gravity. Overall, the Z/28 weighs about 135 kilograms less than the ZL1 model — the heaviest Camaro, by the way — that runs with a supercharged 6.2-litre V8 rated at 580 horsepower and 556 pound-feet of torque. The Z/28 actually weighs

Satisfy your primal automotive desires in the very pacy Z/28, and all for $70K. all images wheelbase 2014 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28

•Type. Two-door, rear-wheeldrive coupe

• Engines (hp). 7.0-litre OHV V8 (505)

•Transmissions. Six-speed manual

•Base price (incl. destination). $70,000

The Z/28 omits some standard creature comforts in the interest of saving weight, such as air conditioning, which is optional.

about the same as a base V8 Camaro. To do this, the car instead borrows the 2013 Chevrolet Corvette Z06’s high-revving 7.0-litre non-supercharged V8 engine that makes 505 horsepower and 481 poundfeet of torque. Without a supercharger, the 7.0 weighs 29 kilograms less than the 6.2 engine found in the Camaro ZL1. As with the Z06, the Z/28 uses a dry-sump oil system (a 10-litre remote tank instead of the usual oil pan) to ensure a continuous oil stream

to all vital components during high-speed manoeuvres. As well, engine and transmission/differential oil coolers reduce heat build-up and aid reliability when these components are pushed to the max. This is also good insurance since the Z/28’s powertrain warranty also covers extracurricular track use. What the Z/28 does share with its ZL1 counterpart is a close-ratio six-speed manual transmission that, like the car’s extra-stiff suspension and unique shock dampers,

The Z/28’s engine is the 505-horsepower LS7 7.0-litre (427-cubic-inch)

has been beefed up for the rigours of track duty. Numerically, the Z/28 falls short of the ZL1 in terms of raw horsepower and torque, but the Z/28 is likely much quicker around a racetrack, simply because it’s built more for that purpose. Along with its reduced heft over the ZL1, the Z/28 features plenty of racebred tricks up its sleeves. Aerodynamic upgrades include a lower chin spoiler (called a splitter), front and rear fender flares, rocker

panel moldings and a hood vent for ducting otherwise trapped air from the engine compartment. As well, an aggressively shaped rear spoiler improves high-speed stability and cornering speed, aided by a set of sticky Pirelli PZero Trofeo R-compound tires mounted to 11-inch-wide alloy wheels in front and 11.5-inchers in back. The tires — more than a foot wide — are the same on all four corners. Chevrolet claims that the Z/28 produces 1.05 g’s in cornering grip and an

equal amount of braking force, thanks to the fadefree Brembo-brand carbonceramic brakes that weigh considerably less than comparable iron rotors. The Z/28’s interior is just as go-fast-focused as the rest of the car. There’s a flatbottomed steering wheel and Recaro racing-style seats with grippy suede-covered bottoms and cutouts for installation of an aftermarket five-point racing harness. Clearly, this extra-special Camaro isn’t your average grocery getter or stoplight poseur. It’s built for drivers who can afford to drop an estimated $70,000 for a car with everything an enthusiast needs to exercise his or her need for speed.

For the latest information, visit us at chevrolet.ca, drop by your local Chevrolet dealer or call us at 1-800-GM-DRIVE. ¥ Offer valid only to eligible retail lessees in Canada who have obtained credit approval by GM Financial, have entered into a lease agreement with GM Financial, and who accept delivery from November 1, 2013 through January 2, 2014 of a new eligible 2014 model. General Motors of Canada will pay the first month’s lease payment (inclusive of taxes and any applicable pro-rata amount normally due at lease delivery as defined on the lease agreement). $0 first month lease payment means no biweekly payments will be due in the first month of your lease agreement. After the first month, lessee will be required to make all remaining scheduled payments over the remaining term of the lease agreement. Other lease options available. This offer may not be redeemed for cash and may not be combined with certain other consumer incentives available on GM vehicles. *Based on a 60/60/48/36 month lease for 2014 MY Chevrolet Sonic LS Sedan 1SA/Cruze LS 1SA/Equinox LS FWD 1SA/Silverado Crew Cab 1WT 4X4 (1SA+G80) for a total of 130/130/104/78 bi-weekly payments. Lease rates are 0%/0%/0%/1.5%. Annual kilometre limit of 20,000 km; $0.16 per excess kilometre. OAC by GM Financial. Bi-weekly payments may vary depending on down payment/trade. A down payment or trade of $0/$0/$0/$0 and $0/$0/$0/$0 security deposit is required. Total obligation is $9,490/$10,790/$16,536/$14,742. Excess wear and tear and km charges are not included. Other lease options available. Freight of $1,550/$1,600/$1,600/$1,650 and $100/$100 air tax (for Equinox/Silverado) are included. License, insurance, registration, applicable taxes and fees are not included. †† Offer only valid from December 10, 2013 to January 2, 2014 (the "Program Period") to retail customers residing in Canada who own or are currently leasing a Chevrolet (Aveo, Beretta, Corsica, Cobalt, Caprice, Cavalier, Cruze, Epica, Impala, Lumina, Malibu, Metro, Monte Carlo, Optra, Sonic, Spark or Volt); Saturn (Ion, Aura, Astra, L-Series, S-Series or Sky); Oldsmobile (Aurora, 88, 98, Supreme, Alero, Intrigue, Achieva, Ciera or Cutlass) or Pontiac (G3/Wave, G5/Pursuit, G6, G8, Sunfire, Solstice, Vibe, Grand Am, Grand Prix, Bonneville or Firefly) that has been registered and insured in Canada in the customer’s name for the previous consecutive six months will receive a $1,000 Holiday Owner Bonus credit towards the lease, purchase or finance of an eligible new 2013 MY/2014 MY Chevrolet Sonic, Cruze, Malibu or Impala delivered during the Program Period. Eligible retail customers residing in Canada who own or are currently leasing a Chevrolet (HHR, Equinox, Tracker, Uplander, Venture, Astro, Lumina APV, Blazer, Traverse or Trailblazer); Saturn (Vue, Relay or Outlook); Pontiac (Montana/SV6, Trans Sport, Torrent, Aztek or Sunrunner); Buick (Rendezvous, Terraza, Enclave or Rainier); Oldsmobile (Silhouette or Bravada) or GMC (Safari, Jimmy, Terrain, Acadia or Envoy) that has been registered and insured in Canada in the customer’s name for the previous consecutive six months will receive a $1,000 Holiday Bonus Owner credit towards the lease, purchase or finance of an eligible new 2013 MY/2014 MY Chevrolet Trax, Equinox or Traverse delivered during the program period. Offer only valid from December 10, 2013 to January 2, 2014 (the "Program Period") to retail customers residing in Canada who own or are currently leasing (during the Program Period) a GM or competitor pickup truck to receive up $1,000 Holiday Bonus Cash towards the purchase, finance or lease of an eligible new 2014 MY Chevrolet Silverado Light-Duty, Silverado Heavy-Duty, Sierra Light-Duty, Sierra Heavy-Duty, or Avalanche. Only one (1) credit may be applied per eligible vehicle sale. Offer is transferable to a family member living in the same household (proof of address required). This offer may not be redeemed for cash and may not be combined with certain other consumer incentives available on GM vehicles. The Holiday Owner Bonus includes HST/GST/QST/PST as applicable by province. As part of the transaction, dealer will request current vehicle registration and/or insurance to prove ownership for the previous consecutive six months. Offer valid from December 10, 2013 to January 2, 2014 (the “Program Period”) to retail customers residing in Canada who take delivery of an eligible vehicle during the Program Period. Credit is a manufacturer-to-consumer incentive (tax inclusive) and credit value depends on model purchased or leased: up to $500 in additional Holiday Owner Bonus valid on 2014 MY Chevrolet/Buick/GMC/Cadillac cars, crossover or utility models; up to $1,000 in additional Holiday Owner Bonus valid on 2014 MY Chevrolet Silverado or GMC Sierra; and up to $1,500 in additional Holiday Owner Bonus valid on any 2013 MY Chevrolet/ Buick/GMC/Cadillac vehicles. All products are subject to availability. ‡‡ $3,500 is a manufacturer-to-dealer delivery credit (tax exclusive) that applies to the cash purchase, purchase finance or lease of 2014 MY Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Crew Cab and is reflected in the lease offer in this advertisement. Other cash credits available on select models. s The 2-Year Scheduled Lube-Oil-Filter Maintenance Program provides eligible customers in Canada, who have purchased, leased or financed a new eligible 2014 MY Chevrolet, Buick or GMC vehicle (excluding Spark EV), with an AC Delco oil and filter change, in accordance with the oil life monitoring system and the Owner’s Manual, for 2 years or 40,000 KMs, whichever occurs first, with a limit of four (4) Lube-Oil-Filter services in total, performed at participating GM dealers. Fluid top offs, inspections, tire rotations, wheel alignments and balancing, etc. are not covered. This offer may not be redeemed for cash and may not be combined with certain other consumer incentives available on GM vehicles. n n Eligible students or recent graduates receive a Student Bonus credit of $500 or $750 (tax inclusive) (credit amount depends on vehicle purchased) to use towards the purchase or lease of one eligible new 2013 MY/2014 MY Chevrolet, Buick, GMC or Cadillac vehicle delivered between January 3, 2013 and January 2, 2014. ¥ * s †† nn ‡‡ Limited time offers which may not be combined with other offers. Dealers are free to set individual prices. Quantities may be limited; dealer order or trade may be required. GMCL reserves the right to modify, extend or terminate offers, in whole or in part, at any time without notice. Void where prohibited by law. Additional conditions and limitations may apply. See dealer for details.

UP TO

HOLIDAY

FIRST MONTH’S LEASE PAYMENT ¥

$0 $0 $0 $0 0 % $

FIRST MONTH’S LEASE PAYMENT ¥

$ DOWN PAYMENT

BI-WEEKLY LEASE

FREIGHT INCLUDED

83 0% 60 *

$0 $0 $0 $0 0 %

DOWN PAYMENT

BI-WEEKLY LEASE

FREIGHT AND AIR TAX INCLUDED

159 0% 48 @

2014 SILVERADO CREW CAB 1WT 4X4

$0 $0 $0 $0

DOWN PAYMENT

BI-WEEKLY LEASE

FREIGHT AND AIR TAX INCLUDED. $3,500‡‡ CREDIT IS INCLUDED.

189 36 *

FOR

Save up to $750 on an eligible new GM Vehicle! n n SECURITY DEPOSIT

FOR

SECURITY DEPOSIT DUE AT SIGNING

2,500

COMPLIMENTARY OIL CHANGES 2-YEAR/40,000KM SIGN & DRIVE LEASING ¥

160,000-KM/5-YEAR

Whichever comes first. See dealer for limited warranty details.

POWERTRAIN WARRANTY

††

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2014 CRUZE LS

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For those without a Metro, the forecast calls for “I dunno” with a slight chance of “huhhh?”

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metronews.ca Tuesday, December 24, 2013

Horoscopes

Taurus

April 21 - May 21 You will handle everything life throws at you with grace and style. The planets endow you with limitless self-confidence and the kind of faith that moves mountains.

Gemini

May 22 - June 21 You will have to take on new responsibilities over the next few days, including some of a financial nature. Show the world you have what it takes to handle difficult situations.

Cancer

June 22 - July 23 Although the sun in Capricorn brings partnership problems to the fore, Mercury in your opposite sign will make it easier for you to see things from the other person’s point of view.

Leo

July 24 - Aug. 23 Matters of a routine nature will take up a lot of time but once you have completed your tasks you can move on to something more interesting. Whatever else you do today, don’t cut corners.

Virgo

Aug. 24 - Sept. 23 This should be a productive day for you — you will get a lot done in a short space of time. Make the most of it because as you move into the New Year not everything will come quite so easily.

Read every Monday and Wednesday for tips and trends in education and employment. Only in Metro. News worth sharing.

See today’s answers at metronews.ca/answers.

Crossword: Canada Across and Down

Libra

Sept. 24 - Oct. 23 Partners and colleagues will demand more of your time and attention today and if you are smart you will give it to them.

Scorpio

Oct. 24 - Nov. 22 You will get the chance to move up in the world in some way over the next few days and even though your mind may be on other things you must grab the opportunity.

Sagittarius

Nov. 23 - Dec. 21 Money matters must come first today and with Mercury joining the sun in the main financial area of your chart you will get the chance to balance the books.

Capricorn

Dec. 22 - Jan. 20 Decide what is the most important thing you should be doing right now and do it to the exclusion of all else. Your efforts will not be wasted.

Aquarius

Jan. 21 - Feb. 19 What happens today will convince you that life is good and about to get even better. The only reason that your thoughts have been so negative of late is because you have allowed your emotions to blot out common sense. Time to rebalance.

Pisces

Feb. 20 - March 20 Try not to get too emotionally involved in other people’s problems. Life is full of ups and downs, and so a more light-hearted approach from you today will be an example for them to follow.

Across 1. “Hush! I __ __ the phone!” 5. Gentle 9. “__ Old St. Nicholas” 14. Artist’s work 16. Grow like _ __ 17. Saint-Jean-sur-__, Quebec 18. Distributes 19. Pitcher’s stat. 20. _ __ mode 21. Pancake dish of Russia 23. Mailing enclosures, commonly 25. Nero’s 651 27. Poinsettia part 30. Texter’s “incidentally” 32. Jump 34. __-Cone 35. Overseas MTV honour (acronym) 37. Alum 39. Barbera’s cartooning partner 41. The Huron Carol bit: “That mighty __ __ / Sent angel choirs instead.” 44. Via ship: 2 wds. 45. Singer/songwriter Marvin 46. Prefix to “light” 47. Appropriate 48. Thailand currency 50. Premium car 52. French for “here and there”: Ici __ __ 54. Ancient portico 56. Distressed cries

By Kelly Ann Buchanan

60. Saskatchewan village between Regina and Saskatoon 62. American airer since ’71 64. Furrow-maker 65. Helicopter part 67. Ontario community east of London 70. Satire

Yesterday’s Crossword

71. Where Canada is trying to lay territorial claim, as in recent headlines: 2 wds. 72. Holiday hue 73. Fellows 74. Belonging to an undercover agent Down 1. __-ski

2. Ballerina/actress Ms. Shearer of The Red Shoes (1948) 3. Killer whales 4. To the __ power 5. Richard of Night Court 6. Ancient tale 7. Prevarication 8. __ Canada (Book publisher)

9. Actress Ms. Gertz 10. Buck of Hee Haw 11. “Oh, the weather outside is frightful...” Christmas carol: 3 wds. 12. Jeans brand 13. Li’l length units 15. Spread 22. Irish coronation stone, __ Fail

24. Online retail discount 26. Mott’s beverage 28. Boredom 29. Bygone bird 31. Early 1920s President [monogram] 33. __ Beta Kappa 35. The Prince of __ (1998) 36. Festive foliage 38. Position in hockey: 2 wds. 40. When management might return from lunch, __ __ 42. Music legend Mr. Calloway 43. Bird bill 44. UK defence contractor, _ _ _ Systems 49. Mount __ (Volcano of Japan) 51. Frankincense and __ 53. Solo 55. Furious 57. __ it up (Celebrate) 58. Candy-on-a-stick 59. Monica of tennis 61. Welsh opera singer Mr. Terfel 63. Furry friends 65. Semi 66. Hockey Hall of Famer 68. __ _ Turn (Road sign) 69. Madonna’s first hubby ... his initialssharers

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Yesterday’s Sudoku

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Aries

March 21 - April 20 Something you have been working on for a long time will bear fruit today. Others may say you’ve been lucky but the fact is you have laboured long and hard to get this far.

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NEWS

metronews.ca December 27, 2013

Local

2013 was a big news year in Halifax. Here are the stories that called us to action, impacted our lives, and gave us a much-needed smile.

Rehtaeh taught me about respect

NEWS

‘Listening and respect was all she needed.’ Reporter learns simple lesson from mother of teen at centre of tragic bullying case HALEY RYAN

haley.ryan@metronews.ca

More than eight months after Rehtaeh Parsons took her own life, I still think of a sentence her mother said to me just a couple days after her daughter’s death. I sat down with Leah Parsons in April, after she invited me into her Cole Harbour home to hear about what kind of person Rehtaeh was, before and after the alleged rape that happened at a party when she was 15, in 2011. “Rehtaeh’s everywhere here,” Parsons said with a sad smile as she looked around at the photos of her daughter lining the walls. Interviewing someone who has suffered a major loss is intimidating because you want to do their loved one justice, but as I talked with Leah I realized listening and respect was all she needed. As a reporter, I knew sharing Rehtaeh’s story was the best way I could respect her memory and help her family heal. Parsons said her 17-yearold daughter had been a headstrong, busy young woman passionate about animal rights and protective of her younger sisters. When Parsons talked about the night she said Rehtaeh

Leah Parsons fights back tears talking about the death of her daughter Rehtaeh just days after she died in hospital. JEFF HARPER/METRO

was raped by a group of boys, and an alleged photo of the incident was spread around her school, I remember her disbelief and pain that people could harass her daughter for being “a slut.” Following in the wake of increased media and public attention, new information did come forward to allow the RCMP to reopen Rehtaeh’s case, leading to child porn charges against two teenage boys. That story has also become synonymous with bullying

across the country, and helped create national and provincial legislation which criminalizes the distribution of intimate photos without consent. However, Rehtaeh mostly taught me about respecting those who come forward to talk about sexual abuse, and the importance of simply listening. “Don’t jump on the victim, help the victim,” Parsons said. In some ways, Parsons is right. Rehtaeh’s influence is everywhere.

Events following Rehtaeh Parson’s story

• The Nova Scotia and federal governments introduced cyberbullying legislation, which includes making the nonconsensual distribution of “intimate images” illegal. • RCMP reopened her case based on new and credible information, leading to child-porn charges being laid. • An Independent review was launched into how the Halifax Regional Police and local school board handled her case. • A review was launched on how mental-health procedures at the IWK Health Centre could be improved.

NEWS

metronews.ca December 27, 2013

Veteran and his service dog inspire Eastern Passage. Veteran with message of life-altering benefits of service dogs for veterans with PTSD makes lasting impression on reporter

Cost of a four-legged helper

$2.5-10K

The potential cost of a PTSD-trained service dog.

RUTH DAVENPORT

You let us know which online stories affected you.

PROUDEST: Rush lands in Halifax, rocks out to full house at Metro Centre, in pictures In pictures: Hope Blooms cashes in with $40K investment from Dragons’ Den

Reporter

I covered a lot of touching and incredible stories for Metro Halifax in 2013, but none caught my attention quite like that of the Eastern Passage man who found a fourfooted saviour in 2012 — and has made the most of his new “leash” on life since. As a dog owner and rabid animal lover, I’m naturally predisposed to be moved by animal stories. But Retired Capt. Medric Cousineau’s is so much more than just a dog story. The former Air Force navigator was paired with his service dog, Thai, in 2012 after years of battling depression, paranoia, and suicidal thoughts following an injury in 1986. He says Thai has transformed his life. “There’s so much that can happen that’s positive, and all of that, in my life, is attributable to one little yellow lady lab,” he told me when I caught up with him in December. Although he believes Thai may have saved his life, Cousineau hasn’t been content to

Readers’ online picks

Retired air f orce navigator Capt. Medric Cousineau and his wife, Jocelyn, with Thai the service dog, who joined the family in 2012. Medric launched an awareness and fundraising campaign in 2013 that has helped pair several Canadian veterans living with post-traumatic stress disorder with service dogs. Jocelyn was recently named a Wal-Mart Associate Mom of the Year, and received a $10,000 donation to the cause as a reward. Jeff Harper/Metro

just bask in that success. In 2013, he took on the cause of spreading awareness about service dogs and raising funds for other Canadian veterans living with PTSD to get a Thai of their own. You see, Veterans Affairs doesn’t cover the cost of service dogs, putting them out of reach for many veterans. It’s a troubling policy, particularly given news of at least four vet-

Paws Fur Thought

“Service dogs are so unobtrusive, it’s not like we’re going to turn the world into the world’s largest dog kennel — although maybe that wouldn’t be such a bad idea given the stress of modern society.” Retired Capt. Medric Cousineau, Paws Fur Thought

erans taking their own lives in early December. So last summer, barely a year after his own remarkable transformation began, Cousineau set out on yet another long journey. He walked from Halifax to Ottawa – Thai padding faithfully at his side — to let people know about the benefits of these incredible fuzzy-faced helpers. Along the way, his organization Paws Fur Thought raised enough funds to pair several dogs with veterans. “We have one guy who used to walk with a walker… now he’s walking unassisted with his dog,” he said. “There’s a lady veteran who…now has a lady Great Dane. They go into public and she feels confident. She’s regaining her life.”

I’m infinitely inspired by this man. He’s overcome demons I don’t understand in order to take on the new and potentially even more difficult battle of changing government policy; and in the meantime, his work is achieving tangible, life-altering results for his brothers and sisters in arms. “This message of hope is so important. When you have none…and despair takes over, we’ve seen what happens,” he said. The federal government is currently reviewing the research on service dogs and PTSD, a step that was announced the day after Cousineau met with Veterans Affairs Minister Julian Fantino. But what’s more telling to me is the public response

to Cousineau’s campaign: his 11-year-old neighbour collected donations for her birthday instead of presents; the managers of several local businesses routinely collect donations for him; and Wal-Mart Canada honoured his wife as an Associate Mom of the Year with a $10,000 donation. While lawmakers continue to deliberate in 2014, Cousineau said he, his team, and his growing army of supporters will continue to work to pair more veterans with service dogs. “There’s a group of people who now have service dogs because of what we’ve done,” he told me. “Somebody asked me what I want for Christmas, and I said I’ve already got it. In spades.”

FROTHIEST: Calgary businessman returns Saint Mary’s degrees over rape chant Chartered financial analyst flew to Halifax in September to return his Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Commerce degrees to protest frosh week song on video.

So not Kool anymore: Radio station turns to modern sound The unusually modern sounds of Matt Mays, Imagine Dragons and Adele greet listeners used to classic 1970s and 80s tunes, as Kool becomes the new Radio 965.

NEWS

metronews.ca December 27, 2013

Readers’ online picks

You told us which online stories affected you most. This one made you ‘proudest.’

He shoots, he catches kiss

JEFF HARPER

Photographer

Photographer’s cup coverage runneth over

In pictures: Hope Blooms cashes in with $40,000 investment from Dragons’ Den It’s official — Halifax’s north end is home to a group of dragon tamers. Over 250 people packed into the common room of the Halifax North Memorial Library to watch the kids of Hope Blooms make their pitch on the CBC’s Dragons’ Den, where they asked for $10,000 to expand their salad-dressing business for five per cent royalties. But after hearing the pitch, four of the five business moguls decided to offer $10,000 each without any royalties and agreed to spread their story, a couple with tears in their eyes. “I felt like I was going to cry out of happiness,” said Christiana Hubley, 14, who appeared on the show. “We knew we couldn’t mess it up because it was a once-in-alifetime opportunity, so we just had to do what we did.” While the Dragons got an on-screen group hug, the library erupted into cheers and clapping as the rows of supporters rose to their feet in a standing ovation. Haley Ryan/metro

In most cup-clinching situations, emotions run high. In this case, the Halifax Mooseheads were playing the Baie-Comeau Drakkar on home ice with a chance to win the President Cup before a capacity crowd at the Metro Centre.

Moose lock lips When you shoot a game like this, goal celebrations become even more important. The Moose scored first in the opening period and I was ready to capture the celebration. It was only after reviewed the images on my camera that I realized teammates Jonathan Drouin and Stefan Fournier were sharing a celebratory kiss. Definitely something you don’t see in hockey every day.

Jonathan Drouin, second from left, and Stefan Fournier share a kiss during the final game of the President Cup finals against the Baie-Comeau Drakkar. JEFF HARPER/METRO

Social media sensation

The photo was posted as the main image with our Metro Halifax online story of the Herd’s win that night and it was shared by thousands on social media. To my surprise, I

saw screen-captures of the image on Instagram and Tumblr that night. Yahoo Sports also purchased the photo to share on an international stage.

National

NEWS

metronews.ca December 27, 2013

Rob Ford, Senate scandal, Toilet Squirrel: 2013 was a big year. Here are the stories that called us to action, made us laugh or impacted our lives in other ways.

Metro story helps mentally ill man secure himself a new home KATE WEBB

‘100 times better’

Metro in Winnipeg

Metro’s choice

Starman blows our minds JENNIFER GAUTHIER/METRO IN VANCOUVER

fifth-wheel. Moving on up But the complex problems of a man who has overcome “I feel more positive about crack addiction and alcoholism and still struggles daily with myself. I’m more sure of depression and post-traumatic myself. I feel more personstress disorder cannot be able towards myself.… I think neatly resolved with four walls of aluminum and vinyl. Some of myself as someone who days he feels up, some days he actually deserves to be refeels down, he says. The After Metro ran stories on the spected, which — that’s kind weather, getting used to his outage, and the fact that he couldn’t find a new park willing new neighbours, and the stress of foreign territory to me.” of living low-income — all of to take his old, leaky trailer, an Stephen Chalmers, who says he is proud that by sharing his story publicly, he has online campaign raised enough these have an effect on his become someone people approach for advice about how to seek help. money to buy him a newer, 1999 moods.

New digs, old issues

BERNICE PONTANILLA It was the summer story that had Winnipeggers — and likely others all over North America — looking warily at their toilets. And it led to 15 minutes of fame for a St. James, Man., woman, all thanks to a little critter that somehow ended up in her toilet wet, scared and clinging for dear life. Angela Campbell said it was her love of making people laugh that spurred her to contact Metro Winnipeg only hours after her

kate.webb@metronews.ca

When asked to update a story that impacted me over the last year, I immediately thought of Stephen Chalmers. I interviewed him again last month. The walkway up to his new trailer sparkles with red and blue Christmas lights, and on clear nights moonlight spills through tall pine trees onto the quiet campground where he has lived for nearly two months now. The 54-year-old is still getting used to his new surroundings after moving out of a dilapidated trailer at the run-down Beladean Trailer Park in Surrey, B.C., which lost power in September due to an improperly supervised motel demolition. “I’m 100 times better. I feel better, I sleep better,” says Chalmers, who suffers from multiple mental illnesses and lives on a meagre disability income.

Toilet Squirrel. ’Peg newsroom goes nuts over soggy rodent

HENRIETTA WALMARK

Metro copy editor

Commander’s log — stardate: 04-12-2013: “Here am I floating in my tin can/A last glimpse of the world/Planet Earth is blue and there’s nothing left to do.” Few events in 2013 eclipsed Chris Hadfield’s cover of David Bowie’s Space Oddity. The video of the astronaut floating in his “tin can” as he sang his farewell to life aboard the International

encounter with and rescue of the now infamous Toilet Squirrel. “Out of all of the toilets it could have climbed out of, I’m glad it was mine and that I could help it,” said Campbell in a December interview with Metro. Once Metro Winnipeg broke the story online, Campbell was inundated with requests for interviews from local, national and international media outlets. Space Station capped an extraordinary mission of firsts. As the ISS orbited Earth, he tweeted stunning photos of the planet, chatted with William Shatner, shared videos of science experiments, and performed an interspace duet. Hadfield was having the time of his life, and took us along for the ride. But what’s really cool is what’s been left trailing in the stardust. Hadfield allowed me and millions of others to experience the universe as never before, sparking our imagination and reigniting interest in the final frontier as a space worth exploring.

NEWS

metronews.ca December 27, 2013

An overseas jaunt with Korea vets JOE LOFARO

Metro in Ottawa

Canadian veteran John Stuber receives a hug from Pastor Won Seong-Jae in April as dozens greet Korean War vets at Busan train station. JOE LOFARO/METRO

It had ended like any other workday. I was walking to my car after finishing a shift at Metro in Ottawa, except this day a man stopped me on the sidewalk. It was the press secretary to then veterans affairs minister Steven Blaney.

We exchanged friendly hellos, and then he asked me out of the blue, “Hey, does Metro send reporters on government-sponsored trips?” Good question, I thought. When asked why, he asked if I was interested in going to South Korea to report on a delegation of 36 Korean War veterans from Canada who were going back to mark

Quoted

“I lost some really good friends.” Korean war veteran Joel Beaman told Metro’s Joe Lofaro in South Korea.

the 60th anniversary of the armistice. Well, fast-forward two weeks later, and I was on a

plane headed to Asia just as North Korea was threatening to obliterate the South for the umpteenth time. But that posturing didn’t concern veterans like Frank Bayne one bit. After all, he’d have to be pretty lion-hearted to enlist in the war in 1953 in his early 20s. I left South Korea with a deep appreciation for veterans.

City’s roads became rivers

Standing at a downtown street corner, thigh-deep in brown water, I snapped one of my Metro Calgary reporter favourite photos of the Calgary flood. A man was trudging through the road-turned-river, with the flood-ravaged Saddledome in the background behind him. The image, to me, summed up just how far Calgary’s rivers had encroached into the heart of the city. Then I realized I had better get the heck out of there.

robson fletcher

Empathy

Bosma murder not just ‘a story’ STEPHEN BALDWIN Metro copy editor

The disappearance and murder of Tim Bosma was for me a reminder that we’re all susceptible to becoming front-page stories. The 32-year-old Ancaster, Ont., man vanished after taking two men for a test drive in a truck he was selling. The news that typically makes it to Metro’s pages can often be devastating enough to elicit our sympathy, but rarely our empathy. As hard as we try, it’s not easy to imagine ourselves in war-torn

or hurricane-ravaged cities. Anyone who has had to trust a stranger can relate to Bosma’s situation. And the words of his wife, Sharlene Bosma, made the story even more real for me. “Yesterday was the most horrifying day of my life and people tell me I have been so strong, and all I know is that I have a beautiful two-yearold girl at home who now needs her mommy more than ever and needs her mommy to hold it together, so I know that I cannot fall apart.” This was a heartbreaking loss for a young family, and my hope is that it forces people not to fear or distrust, but to view these stories not just as stories, but as personal experiences.

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metronews.ca December 27, 2013

Readers’ online selections

Regina Humane Society

Fluff piece got me a kitten MARCO VIGLIOTTI

Metro Regina reporter

The first time I stepped through the doors of the Regina Humane Society last July, my heart dropped as I heard the sheepish meows of the newborn kittens.

Unfortunately, the RHS was then swarming with around 85 furry felines and turning to the public for help. In the journalism world, a story about the local animal shelter being overrun with cats would be termed a (literal) “fluff story.” But there’s no question it had an undeniable impact on me. After leaving that night, I pondered whether my girlfriend and I could handle a furry addition to our brood. We were complete new-

comers, looking to adjust to an entirely new city. Was it fair to bring an animal into the mix? Then, we met Gus. Draped in white fur and boasting a pair of huge pink ears, Gus was so femininelooking that RHS staff originally thought he was a girl. He instantly curled up in my girlfriend’s arms as she picked him up. Then he batted at her dangling silver earrings. As I picked him up, he

Here’s what our Metropolitan Panel picked as the top online national news stories of the year Gus, and his owner. COURTESY MJ DESCHAMPS

stopped squirming and nestled into my chest. There was no doubt that he had just made our choice for us. We were his humans.

UFO sightings double in Canada Ufology Research issued its Canadian UFO survey in May and the stats revealed reported sightings doubled in 2012. “Polls have shown that one in 10 Canadians believe they have seen a UFO. That’s three to four million people with UFO experiences,” said Chris Rutkowski of Ufology. TORSTAR NEWS SERVICE

New rules for Canuck drivers In early 2012, this came in from the department of red tape: Canadians were required by law to have an international driving permit when driving in Florida. The new law applied to any non-resident, but has since been unanimously repealed. TORSTAR NEWS SERVICE

T.O. man’s call for stem-cell donations In July, Chris Taylor of Toronto called on healthy 17- to 35-year-olds to become stem-cell donors. “I need one, it turns out, to save my life,” he told Metro. “More importantly, it’s for everyone who needs one.” OneMatch is a program run by Canadian Blood Services which matches potential stem-cell donors to unrelated patients. METRO

Bullying video goes viral Shane Koyczan hit a nerve in the public psyche in February with his video on bullying. In two days, more than 1 million people watched the seven-minute video. The poem, with a tumbling series of animated sketches, chronicles the name-calling and humiliation Koyczan endured. It opens: “When I was a kid, I used to think that pork chops and karate chops were the same thing.” TORSTAR NEWS SERVICE

Readers’ + Metro’s choice

Teen-trafficking case lacked outrage

JESSICA SMITH CROSS Metro in Toronto

Three girls ran away from a group home last year, lured away by a prostitution ring and put to work in Toronto. The girls were in the care of province when they were trafficked. When the story broke, strangely, there was no public outrage. I called up critics of both opposition parties and neither knew much. The Ministry of Child and Youth Services simply said after the criminal trial that safety would be “enhanced.” I talked to Bridget Perrier, who was prostituted from her group home at age 12. Now, she is calling on the provincial government to acquire “a deep understanding” of how the sex trade involves girls in the child welfare system. I agree. I’d also like to see hear some promises about how it will never happen again.

NEWS

metronews.ca December 27, 2013

Reporter’s bottle-cap story goes viral Business blunder. Vitamin Water bottle cap reading ‘You Retard’ is among this year’s top corporate gaffes Candice Ward Reporter in Edmonton

While Blake Loates — who discovered the now-infamous “You Retard” bottle cap on the top of a bottle of Vitamin Water (a Coca-Cola product) back in September in Edmonton — has been satisfied with the outcome of the ordeal and has moved on, the story still seems to be making headlines as one of the worst Canadian business blunders of 2013.

As a journalist, it was exciting to see a story I help to uncover go viral and facilitate positive change within a major corporation, but it was also difficult to watch the toll the story was taking on the family. Like Loates, I was unprepared for the story to go international so quickly, with major news outlets from around the world picking it up.

When stories like this one become viral, people tend to take to the web with their opinions — some supportive and others not so supportive. Loates was never out for media attention (as I had approached her for the story), 15 minutes of fame or financial gain. She merely sought awareness to the pain the word could cause.

The famous Vitamin Water bottle cap. Candice Ward/for Metro in Edmonton

Sheer madness. Lululemon is stretching its customers’ patience MELISSA DUNNE Copy editor

Bent over, hands touching toes, I swivelled to get a good look in the changing-room mirror. This is not the kind of bending and stretching I usually do in my $98 Lululemon pants. The Luxtreme tights (not part of the recall last March) were almost as thin as pantyhose, my underwear clearly visible. The clothing behemoth had cattily suggested the sheerness was caused by women squeezing their fat butts into too-small pants. So I went up a size, then another size. The bottoms were now loose and baggy … and still see-through.

I told a store “educator” about this, only to be snottily informed that “It’s the nature of the fabric.” It seems it’s in the nature of the athletic-clothing empire to stretch its customers’ patience. From the top on down, the response to the sheerpants recall has been sheer madness. Acting like a snobby, reedthin, peroxide-blond yogi has been a core part of Lululemon’s practice for too long. It’s time for the new leadership to be the one twisting and bending for its devoted customer base. If not, this Lulu addict will have to find a store that accepts a woman with (gasp) thighs that sometimes rub together.

An instructor, centre, conducts a yoga class while dressed in Lululemon clothes. Joe Raedle/Getty Images FILE

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NEWS

Digital

metronews.ca December 27, 2013

Metro’s digital team takes a look back at 2013 and shares some of their most memorable stories

The lighter side of the law. A dash of humour helps humanize VicPD luke simcoe

colin mcneil

Digital reporter

On the Metro digital desk, we’re well aware that funny stories are more likely to be shared by our online readers; it’s an insight we share with the Victoria Police Department. Last year, when a naive Reddit user posted about buying marijuana at the University of Victoria, VicPD Const. Mike Russell was there. Using the “VicPDCanada” handle, Russell announced himself with a simple “cough,” reminding users that the long arm of the law extends online. Since then, he and his partner Bowen Osoko have been working to build the force’s social media cred. And despite the serious nature of police work, the pair hasn’t shied away from the absurdist humour endemic to Internet culture. When cops busted drug Cats with hats

“Being silly sometimes helps humanize our officers and make them more approachable. It’s also just a lot of fun.” Bowen Osoko, Victoria Police Department

Which animal is top dog? Top stories by views

Web editor

Animals. They’re cute, they’re cuddly, and they have a furry iron grip on the Internet. From the continuing antics of the Ikea monkey to the Toronto Zoo’s pandas, it’s been quite a year for Canadian fauna, but which four-legged friend is top dog at metronews.ca? The answer may give you paws for thought. There have been 539 stories on metronews.ca tagged “animals” in 2013. Here are the top 5 animals (by number of stories).

The Victoria Police Department has spammed Twitter followers with pictures of cats wearing hats, among other humorous tactics.

cats

courtesy vicPd

dealers hiding cocaine in fake “Durasell” batteries in January, Russell penned a hilarious press release and offered tips to others looking to secure their stash. “Don’t forget to label it ‘not drugs’ so we don’t inadvertently look inside,” he said. When handed the reins of the force’s Twitter account in March, Osoko opted to spam followers with pictures of cats wearing hats. “Being silly sometimes helps humanize our officers and make them more approachable. It’s also just a lot of fun.”

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Photos: Regina squirrels tangled by sticky situation

Warning: Graphic new images surface of GuZoo animal farm

Irene Kuan’s “sparrow face” selfies. contributed

Glymm. There’s more to being a beauty editor than sparrow-face selfies

Video: Elephant seal inhales meal in blink of an eye

Hoarding case sees more than 50 cats removed from Halifax apartment

irene Kuan

Audio: Dog shaved like lion prompts panicked 911 calls

Some readers have complained about my work as Metro’s fashion and beauty blogger for Trends Report, labelling it sexist and shallow. Granted, writing about “sparrow face selfies” and “bitchy resting face” doesn’t suggest hard journalism, but the beauty indusdogs try is what it is. In fact, if it hadn’t been for an assignment reviewing beauty boxes, I would have

109

multiple animals

birds

Digital associate managing editor

bears

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 28

20x

never stumbled upon this story: One reader claimed she had been scammed by a subscription beauty box service called Glymm. The company charged her for a yearly subscription and then sent an abrupt email about their closure. It shuttered its business, website, Facebook and Twitter accounts, while keeping customers’ money. As a blogger, I care about my readers and their feedback. I tracked the founder of Glymm using LinkedIn and badgered his secretary for information over the phone. I also used my ties as a beauty blogger to get reaction from other beauty-box businesses. After all, there were tons of irked Glymm subscribers in an industry that is still working to establish itself. The week of April 25 the Glymm story generated more than 10,000 website views and 20,000-plus views on my Storify. It even prompted a company, Nail Polish Canada, to link to my story and provide free gifts to customers bilked by Glymm.

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NEWS

metronews.ca December 27, 2013

#omg! Readers all a-Twitter over TEMP Canadian author Douglas Coupland, best-known for his groundbreaking novel Generation X, visited Metro’s head office just before the launch of TEMP. The 20part fiction series was published in Metro throughout November. Here’s how Metro readers responded on Twitter: @jason_michael: A sincere heartfelt Thank You to @DouglasCoupland for TEMP. I am a temp working for the government and your words continue to inspire! @Teyemtenot: yet another reason why Metro is my favourite thing to read in the morning! @hurricanediana: thanks for keeping me entertained for 20 a.m. commutes. Funny, surprisingly thought-provoking and relevant. @KaT4_2012: read TEMP every day! #youguysnailedit #precariousworkiseverywhere Douglas Coupland is brilliant @morgancadenhead: The collaboration between @DouglasCoupland and @MetroNewsCanada is fascinating. A truly unique way to approach fiction. @SuzanneMaryse: i am loving this! ... Coupland nails the post-modern condition once again @ctmwyn: The best part about @DouglasCoupland #Temp is the high concentration of #CliffHangers #Serialization metro

Web editor Hannah Zitner chats with Douglas Coupland during the author’s visit to Metro’s head office in Toronto on Oct. 28. DAVID VAN DYKE/METRO

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NEWS

metronews.ca December 27, 2013

International Duck to sparrow to eagle

Selebrating selfies lacy atalick

Metro Copy Editor

Two weeks after the Oxford Dictionary declared “selfie” to be the word of the year, an Australian eagle with a flair for the topical put the icing on the proverbial cake by stealing a video camera, recording its 110-kilometre journey and, oh yeah, snapping a selfie along the way. Bloggers have borne witness to the form’s avant garde (hint: the duck face, the sparrow and the “squinch”). But as far as I’m concerned, the eagle’s is so far the best, most transcendent, least filtered selfie. Its beak seems to poke the camera’s lens, to somehow pierce the scrim between parody and coincidence, and I can’t help but laugh at what we’ve become.

From strange to serious — the world was a fascinating and sometimes heartbreaking place in 2013.

‘The People’s Pope.’ Will Francis be a paragon of progressive papacy? mike palma

Metro Copy Editor

Since not long after Pope Benedict XVI became the first Holy Father in centuries to quit his job, his successor, Francis, has captured headlines and hearts with his progressive approach to the papacy. I grew up Catholic, and his humility, his focus on the poor and his expressed tolerance of gays and nonbelievers has landed him in my good books as well. But is Francis really a progressive symbol of an evolving Church? Time hailed him as “The People’s Pope” in its Person of the Year cover story, and suggested he’s “poised to transform” the Vatican. He’s unquestionably been great PR compared to the previous pope, who struck me as harsher and more conservative than John Paul II before him. But how

Royally inundated The arrival of Prince George of Cambridge was the most anticipated birth in the history Metro Copy Editor of modern media. At least, that’s the assumption you could make when looking back at the relentless press coverage of the royal pregnancy. Some readers were likely sick of hearing about Will and Kate’s spawn long before he popped out of the womb, but that heady mix of wealth, privilege and youth is catnip for the masses, journalists included. If there’s one thing we can take away from the baby bombardment it’s that the British monarchy is in no danger of being dethroned, not with the press at its side.

carol chung

Pope Francis. Franco Origlia/Getty Images file

much power does Francis actually have to change things for good? Even if Francis makes the poor and downtrodden the focus of his entire papal career, his church remains

strictly against homosexuality, divorce, contraception and abortion. Unless he’s willing and able to change the official rules, I’m not sure I’ll continue to find him so delightful.

NEWS

metronews.ca December 27, 2013

Egypt

‘An uncertain reality’ deena Douara

Metro copy editor

Calls to relatives in Egypt are reminders that while the deteriorating state of affairs — of people’s spirits and dreams and savings — is frustrating to behold from here, it’s an uncertain reality, a nightmare, over there. I was there this summer, in the leadup to the anniversary of thenpresident Mohamed Morsi’s inauguration. I tried to understand the arguments: Egyptians must protest; Egyptians must stay home and give him a fair chance. I tried to capture that atmosphere for Metro, on TV and for Huffington Post, all garnering strong reactions. As protests

intensified, so did people’s rhetoric. A prevalent “You’re with us or with the terrorists” approach took root, serving to justify military crackdowns and delegitimize nuanced opinions that didn’t conform neatly to “pro-military” or “pro-Muslim Brotherhood.” The 2011 revolution was one of the most dramatic scenes Egyptians witnessed in at least three decades. There was uncertainty and disagreement and plenty of anger. But I believe it is 2013 that really changed Egyptians. Mistrust, contempt, revenge, hatred — these sentiments are relatively new, and they are frightening. As repression, imprisonment and censorship have seemingly increased alongside an ever-declining economy, Egyptians now must too fear their neighbours. And divided, they say, is how they fall.

Manning. The truth at what cost? kevin HAMILTON

Metro copy editor

An Egyptian woman reacts in Tahrir Square the day after former Egyptian President Mohammed Morsi, the country’s first democratically elected president, was ousted from power on July 4 in Cairo. Ed Giles/Getty Images FILE

Keeping an eye on Syria ali ZAFAR

Metro copy editor

Nearly three years on, the Arab Spring has morphed into a disgruntled winter in Syria. While several Arab nations have toppled their dictators, Syria continues to be stuck between rebel strongholds and leader Bashar al-Assad. Readers’ online selections

Bearing the wrath of this power struggle are the citizens of the country. Around two million of them have been displaced, and Amnesty International estimates that more than 100,000 people have been killed since the conflict started in March 2011. I’ve seen atrocities committed both in the name of religion and by iron-fist rulers

while living in the Middle East and South Asia, which is why the plight of Syrians is something I can relate to. Being considered a religious minority in Pakistan, I can empathize with the woes of religious minorities in Syria who are worried about their country under the control of Islamist rebels. It’s why I’ll keep a close eye on stories coming out of Syria in 2014.

Victim blaming JILLIAN BELL

Metro copy editor

For many rape victims, the rape itself is just the beginning of their nightmare. They are shamed and doubted. Their every action is questioned: What was she thinking

wearing that skirt? Or drinking that much alcohol? This year, we saw the world rally around a rape victim in the Steubenville case. This was a refreshing, but an all too rare occurrence. If only every case of sexual assault generated such an uproar, perhaps more women would have the courage to report being raped, and more rapists would be held accountable.

Nothing hard-hitting here: Metro online readers gravitated towards the matrimonial woes of a Facebook couple, men faking labour and a shelter dog sought for his anthropomorphic attributes as their favourite international stories of 2013, as picked through our Metropolitan Panel

Having same name apperently not the secret to a successful marriage Dutch men undergo simulated labour pains This video of two Dutch men who decided to find out how difficult childbirth is by hooking themselves up to a machine that simulates real-life labour pains was a huge hit with readers. Metro Watch the video at metronews.ca.

Steubenville

Chelsea Manning is a name too quickly forgotten. This summer, the disgraced soldier was convicted of Chelsea Manning espionage for transferring classified U.S. military files to WikiLeaks. He received a 35-year sentence. The attention paid to Manning does little justice to the immensity of her actions. The biggest leak in U.S. history fuelled allegations of corrupt tactics, moral bankruptcy and outright war crimes. But the world instead fixated on WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange and has now moved on to NSA leaker Edward Snowden. Manning was further marginalized during her trial as her mental stability was called into question. And, of course, her announcement that she would live as a woman caused no end of distraction. All of this overshadowed what I think should be the true focus of the affair: ethics. Was Manning justified in breaking the law, potentially harming U.S. interests and possibly putting lives at risk in order to expose the truth? What acts are acceptable in the name of security? And how can a government remain accountable to its people while keeping its activities secret?

It took a simple Facebook message from one Kelly Hildebrandt to another Kelly Hildebrandt to get the wheels of love turning. But it seems the two are no longer are no longer Facebook friends. The young couple filed for divorce in July. “How do they term it at the courthouse? Irreconcilable differences, that is what I would say,” the male Hildebrandt told a newstation. “We gave it our best shot.” Torstar News Service

Man fired after wrestling sharks A 62-yearold British man who became an Internet sensation after wrestling with a shark on an Australian beach said in March that he was fired after his employer discovered he’d been abroad while on sick leave. Paul Marshallsea was filmed yanking a six-foot-long shark away from waders at Caloundra beach in January. But his intervention also caught the eye of his employer. Marshallsea had been on leave since last April and said his doctor advised him to go on vacation. The Associated Press

Dog with human-like face gets hundreds of adoption offers MSN messenger goes the way of ICQ Microsoft’s venerable Messenger program was moved to the great big recycling bin in the sky this year. Users had until March 15 to migrate their accounts over to Skype, which the software company acquired in 2011. At its peak, Messenger boasted 300 million users in more than 60 countries. Microsoft will continue Messenger in China, due to the peculiar nature of the Chinese Market. Metro

Tonik the dog became an international sensation when a photo of him was picked up by media around the globe. “His pictures have been up on the adoption site since September 2011,” said Schwartz. “For some reason, someone decided this week that he looks like a human and it’s been overwhelming since,” said Jen Schwartz, the founder and owner of the Homeward Bound Animal Shelter, at the time of the buzz. Torstar News Service

Year in review

metronews.ca December 27, 2013

Voices

Three Metro columnists look back on their 2013 columns and respond to their readers’ comments, the good, the bad and the ugly.

This is rare. Three Metro columnists are asked to write about their most memorable work this year. Turns out it can’t be done without your feedback.

2013 is over and I’m left MY ONE holding the (mail)bag LONG YEAR

JUST SAYIN'

Paul Sullivan metronews.ca

Even though asking me to choose a favourite column is like asking me to proclaim a public preference for my goldfish over my hamster, I have dutifully reviewed Just Sayin’ for the past year, and it turns out I have a lot to say, which might surprise a few people. But I’ve managed to narrow it down. Generally, I try to communicate my total bemusement with contemporary life. It’s the best of times. It’s the worst of times. It’s the weird-

est of times, right? That makes for lots of material, such as: Multi-billionaire Amazon’s Jeff Bezos was in the news this year for buying the fabled Washington Post of Woodward and Bernstein fame for the equivalent of billionaire pocket lint: $250 million. That’s less, by the way, than what the Qatar Royal family paid for Impressionist painter Paul Cézanne’s The Card Players — $259 million. contributed (Big deal. I paid $2.59 for The Card Players at the neighbourhood garage sale. I really love the look on the bulldog’s face.) Then there are those columns that are memorable for some really great bits, such as the one about the one-way expedition to Mars that was signing up potential colonists earlier this year: “Therefore Mars One is looking for a special kind of person. Someone who is nuts enough to spend the rest of his or her life stuck in a climate-controlled hut the size of a portable toilet but well adjusted enough not to try to eat his or her fellow castaways.” istock images What writing! Of course, you can’t write a column these days without having your own online anvil chorus, and I managed to hit a sour note writing about people who don’t wear enough clothes on the beach. My protest went along aesthetic lines, not skin care, and the mob that formed outside my virtual door was not happy. Here’s just a taste: “Holy crap this is arguably the most ignorant thing I’ve ever read in my life.” You can’t please all of the people all of the time, but if you try really hard, you can annoy all of the people all of the time. Fortunately, I did manage to get an online standing O for a column I wrote about a movement to ban tipping that’s just getting off the ground in New York and Chicago. One reader, named Crystal, gave me some unordinary positive feedback: “I Reader writes don’t usually write in to comment on articles of any sort, “After reading your brief but after reading your brief article I had to say, very article I had to say, very well written, entertaining, all the well written, while thought-provoking. Exentertaining, all the cellent!” Thanks, Crystal, I needed while thoughtthat. As you can tell, it’s been a provoking.” Crystal long year.

HE SAYS

John Mazerolle readers@metronews.ca

I’ve been told to pick one favourite 2013 column and reminisce, but my columns are like my children and once they’re out in the world I will deny they are mine. Instead, let’s open the mailbag. After a year of columnastic genius I feel it’s important for readers to provide a fresh perspective on how wonderful I am. For instance, one fan recently sent me a Facebook message that said my Mail moment

“Stupid yellow journalism at it’s finest!!!” Online Fan

columns are “desperately TRYING to be funny. Alas, they just come off juvenile.” To hear my work is desperately funny, yet childlike, is wonderful. I clicked on her page to thank her and learned she’s graduated from “I didn’t finish (2008),” which signals a level of brash independence and attention to detail I think we can all emulate. Under professional skills it said, “cracksmoking,” which means she

will soon be a writer (if she’s joking) or the mayor of a large city (if she’s not). Another reader let me know my column is “pure dribble.” I briefly assumed it was an insult and he had misspelled ‘drivel.’ Then I realized it was a basketball-related compliment, and that he considers me the Michael Jordan of Metro columnists. Pure, unadulterated dribble. Swish. Some other actual mail-

istock images

bag highlights: * “Hypocrit much?” (More than you. I add an ‘e.’) * “Do your research.” (No.) * “Stupid yellow journalism at it’s finest!!!” (There are numerous problems here, but they are amply overcome by the use of three exclamation points. Bravo.) And that’s the 2013 mailbag. See you next year, readers — older, but not wiser!!!

I swear, and I am a girl From the inbox

SHE SAYS

Jessica Napier @MetroSheSays

As 2013 comes to a close, it’s fun to look back at some of the memorable columns I’ve written over the course of the year. Back in June, I wrote a piece about swearing in public. I described how my boyfriend and I had been reprimanded by an

“I am saddened when I hear a young person, especially a young girl, making a public reference to parts of their body and their knowledge of sexual activity with obscenities.” Anonymous reader

overbearing parent at a neighbouring table after dropping a few expletives during a Sunday brunch. I was hardly advocating for an uncivilized society full of foul-mouthed brutes, but the column definitely struck a nerve among our readers. I received a few letters from

people who identified swearing in public as a generational problem. One gentleman wrote an email stating, “I am saddened when I hear a young person, especially a young girl, making a public reference to parts of their body and their knowledge of sexual activity with obscenities.” I understand the importance of good manners, but I take offence to this notion that I should suppress

any behaviour that is deemed ‘unladylike’ according to a 1950s standard.

istock images

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metronews.ca December 27, 2013

SCENE

The good, the bad and the ugly Year in review. The beginning of a new year, like the opening of a new film, holds so much promise... It’s time for Metro to screen 2013’s crop NED EHRBAR

Metro World News in Hollywood

It’s time to bid farewell to 2013 with a look at the most disappointing films of the year. Pacific Rim Giant robots! Fighting giant sea monsters! Directed by Guillermo del Toro! This could’ve been so good, and obviously we thought it would be, but the results were just… not so much. Only God Forgives Maybe Nicholas Winding Refn was punishing people for liking his fantastic “Drive” too much, but this art-house meditation on masculinity, violence and retribution — we think? — was just a slog. Star Trek Into Darkness We might have been less disappointed in this longawaited sequel if J.J. Abrams had just come out and said from the get-go that Benedict Cumberbatch was playing Khan. If only that were the only problem with it, though. Jack the Giant Killer Maybe it was foolish to expect Bryan Singer to do something cool and interesting with the old Jack and the Beanstalk fairy tale, but this one just fell flat.

Director Guillermo del Toro really dropped the ball on Pacific Rim — a movie that promised so much and delivered so little. CONTRIBUTED

We asked and you let us know that Gravity was your top movie pick for 2013. CONTRIBUTED Reader’s pick

Metro’s picks1Gravity

1 2 3 4 5

Gravity Blue Jasmine 12 Years a Slave

Metro pick

American Hustle IN FOCUS

Richard Crouse scene@metronews.ca

Hunger Games

Dallas Buyers Club

Oldboy Spike Lee’s plodding, uninspired remake of Park Chan-wook’s 2003 cult classic at least makes a strong case for renting the original. Some things don’t translate well, apparently. Lovelace A lot of foreplay that led to not very much of anything else, this exploration of the

American Hustle’s story of flim-flam men and women, the FBI and a real life sting known as Abscam has emerged as my favourite movie of 2013. It’s an entertainingly audacious movie that will woman behind Deep Throat held too much back. The Fifth Estate Maybe it was too soon to explore the rise and fall of WikiLeaks co-founder Julian Assange, but it seemed perfectly reasonable that

doubtless be compared to The Wolf of Wall Street because of the similarity in tone and themes, but this time around director David O. Russell has almost out-Scorsese’d Martin Scorsese. Add to that unexpected and compelling performances from the A-list ensemble cast — Christian Bale, Amy Adams, Jeremy Renner, Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence — and it adds up to the most fun I had at the movies this year. Bill Condon and Benedict Cumberbatch were up to the task. Apparently not. Anchorman 2 Following up an iconic comedy is tough, but we’re still not sure what Adam McKay

What do you think? We recently polled Metro readers to see what film they considered to be the best of 2013. Gravity was the winner, hands down.

and Will Ferrell were thinking with most of the choices here. Lesson learned: A little bit of Steve Carell’s Brick Tamland goes a long way. Also, the film’s jokes about racism and sexism actually just play as racist and sexist. Maybe next time, guys? Enough Said James Gandolfini’s last leading film role, Julia LouisDreyfus’ return to movies, another chance for Nicole Holofcener to examine adult relationships? This one had so much going for it. Too bad the end result is flat, uninspired and far too pleased with itself.

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metronews.ca December 27, 2013

Metro’s turn-up and tune-out in 2013 Metro’s picks

Metro picks

Song of the Year: Royals by Lorde

Metro’s picks for top five songs • 1. Get Lucky, by Daft Punk • 2. Reflektor and Afterlife, by Arcade Fire

sound check

Alan Cross scene@metronews.ca

• 3. Black Skinhead, by Kanye West • 4. Royals, by Lorde • 5. Thrift Shop, by Macklemore and Ryan Lewis

No lines blurred in this selection As a shameless Jay Z super fan, I want to say 2013’s top song was Holy Grail featuring Justin Timberlake. But even I can’t deny this year belonged to Blurred Lines by Robin Thicke featuring Pharrell Williams and T.I. A simplistic hook and its blend of R&B and pop helped the infectious Blurred Lines hold top spot on charts around the world. It also created its share of controversy (think music video with prancing topless supermodels and Thicke preemptively suing Marvin Gaye’s family). Love it or hate it, at some point (maybe in a drunken stupor if you’re a certain mayor) you likely caught yourself singing, “OK, now he was close, tried to domesticate ya…” Izabela Szydlo, metro

Talk about a song with universal appeal! What began as a track marketed to the alternative set has become the biggest crossformat hit in years. This is largely due to what was left out of Royals. It would have been so easy (and tempting!) to mess up the song by over-producing it. Instead, there’s an elegant simplicity to everything: an understated rhythm track and the barest hint of a bass line. Lorde’s vocals do the rest. The song doesn’t even contain a bridge. This is brilliant

Crossover appeal lands Lorde at the top of Alan Cross’s list. handout

songwriting, an excellent performance and perfect production, all wrapped in one great song.

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metronews.ca December 27, 2013

HBO’s Game belongs only on the Throne TV. Whether you binge watched or faithfully tuned in, there were a number of great shows this year. Metro weighs in on what was tube-worthy in 2013

Finally, a healthy binge You could say I’m always a little late to the party. Up until six months ago, I didn’t have Netflix, I never watched TV online and I never thought I was missing out. That was until I was introduced to Breaking Bad. I now fully indulge in what is being called binge-tv watching. I have devoured entire series (Family Guy, The Boondocks, American Dad, Episodes, The Walking Dead, to name a few. Yes, a few), and have spent an unacceptable amount of time on my couch. And though I’m nostalgic for the days of looking forward to my favourite show every week, and being left hanging for an entire summer before my shows return, I embrace this new way of enjoying television, even if I’m a little late.

Alexandra Cavallo, our TV correspondent from south of the border, gives us her picks for the best shows on TV, however you may watch TV.

miriam osborne/ metro

Game of Thrones Game of Thrones had the best season ever. What other show has the balls to ruthlessly — and aweMetro’s picks

1 2

Breaking Bad comes to an end

Toronto Mayor Rob Ford is lampooned on every major late night talk show and Saturday Night Live

The murder-filled Red Wedding episode of Game of Thrones shocks viewers not familiar with the book series.

4 5

Arrested Development returns to TV via Netflix

Netflix series House of Cards becomes the first web TV show to receive major Primetime Emmy Award nominations, and goes on to win in three categories.

The shocking Red Wedding episode of Game of Thrones made Metro’s list of the best of 2013. handout

somely, creatively and bloodily — kill off multiple main characters like it ain’t no thing? Game of Thrones reigns supreme. See what I did there? House of Cards Other than HBO (and FX and A&E and — well, damn, seems like television is killing it lately, huh?) Netflix is putting out some of the most exciting and game-changing programs. House of Cards — to put it

simply — is utterly captivating, and this comes from a person, who, I admit it, doesn’t even vote. Politics is not my thing. But this show has it all: intrigue, sex, violence, scandal and Kevin Spacey. Enough said. Project Runway Here’s my shout-out to reality TV. I love reality it. I watch it all. Housewives, teen moms, people who have sex with inanimate objects — I’ll watch them

all, as long as it’s “real.” But Project Runway (technically a reality competition show, which makes it higher brow) is legitimately a quality show. The contestants are actually astoundingly talented, the challenges are fresh and exciting, and there’s still enough cat fighting and drama to sate my appetite for lowbrow reality crap. Girls How did nobody else even

mention this show? I don’t care what anybody says, Lena Dunham is a genius and remarkably likeable despite airing her flaws — both emotional and physical — for the whole world to gawk at. Sure, the second season didn’t quite meet the very high bar that the debut season set — it was a little too dark, and sometimes depressing — but as a 20-something girl myself (29 still counts) I can totally relate to almost everything that is said and done on this show. Don’t judge me.

Nathan For You Most people have probably never seen or even heard of this show. Get familiar, people, because Canadian comedian Nathan Fielder is one of the funniest dudes on the tube right now. This docu-reality comedy series basically features Fielder playing a deadpan, deadeyed version of himself, using his “business background” to help out failing companies and individuals. Spoiler alert: He is not helpful. Trust me, you’ve got to watch it. Alexandra Cavallo/mwn

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metronews.ca December 27, 2013

What writers were reading this year Publishing. Authors Teresa Rhyne and Emily Giffin share their top book picks of 2013 Emily Laurence

Metro World News

It’s hard for a first-time

author to surpass the boldfaced names typically seen on the New York Times bestseller lists, but that’s exactly what Teresa Rhyne did with her book The Dog Lived (And So Will I). Her memoir about adopting a dog with cancer inspired millions. So, what books impacted Rhyne in 2013? She shares her top non-fiction picks below.

1. Pukka’s Promise: The Quest For Longer-Lived Dogs, by Ted Kerasote I’m a lifetime dog-lover and yet this book made me rethink how I live with my dogs and what more I can do for their health and welfare, and that was no easy task. Plus, Ted can spin a great tale (tail?) and that’s not easy, either.

2. The Imperfect Environmentalist, by Sara Gilbert This is a practical guide to clearing your body, detoxing your home and saving the Earth — without losing your mind — by actress Sara Gilbert. I’ve had two dogs fight cancer and I’m a cancer survivor myself, so this year I was all about detoxing our environment.

This book became my goto reference, particularly because of her Cut to the Chase Hippie: What’s the Least I Need to Know advice section on every topic — perfect. 3. Devoted: 38 Extraordinary Tales of Love, Loyalty, and Life With Dogs, by Rebecca Ascher-Walsh I’m a sucker for a beautiful dog book, and this one comes with touching stories about the many ways dogs are better than we are. 4. Let’s Explore Diabetes With Owls, by David Sedaris Because David Sedaris. Enough said. 5. Lean In, by Sheryl Sandberg Lean In is thought-provoking, fascinating and depressing. (What have I done with my life?!) It’s about as highbrow as I went in 2013. International best-selling author Emily Giffin knows a thing or two about what makes a good page-turner. Her first book, Something Borrowed, was made into a movie starring Kate Hudson and Ginnifer Goodwin, and her subsequent five novels have been lauded both here and abroad. Giffin, whose seventh novel, The One and Only, comes out in May 2014, shares her favourite fiction books of the year with us.

1. The Silent Wife, by A.S.A. Harrison This is a gripping, intelligent thriller about a marriage on the verge of collapse and a woman at her breaking point. It’s gorgeously written and impossible to put down. A sad footnote: The author passed away just before the book’s publication. 2. Sisterland, by Curtis Sittenfeld Sisterland is a moving and complex emotional study of twin sisters born with mild ESP. Curtis Sittenfeld is one of my favorite authors. As a mother of identical twins, I found this story especially fascinating. 3. The Ocean At The End Of The Lane, by Neil Gaiman This story is a beautiful but bewitching fairy tale of magic and memory. The novel is very unlike my usual reads, but my sister convinced me to give it a chance. She was right — it’s hauntingly delicious. 4. The Yonahlossee Riding Camp For Girls by Anton DiSclafani I have always been drawn to coming-of-age stories, and this novel is a true gem among them. Set during the Depression at an equestrian boarding school, DiSclafani’s debut is that rare combination of understated elegance and explosive drama.

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metronews.ca December 27, 2013

The 2013 cyber heights of cyberspace A Canadian star was born

Metro’s picks

Chris Hadfield’s out-ofthis-world version of Space Oddity inspired many. Kris Abel walks you through his blast off into the collective consciousness.

mIND THE APP

Kris Abel @RealKrisAbel scene@metronews.ca

Norwegian comedy group Ylves’ video for What Does the Fox Say? was YouTube’s top video of the year, and has even spawned an illustrated book.

Amanda Bynes’ 2013 tweets left many of us scratching out heads — and just shocked.

4 5

Felix Baumgartner’s freefall from the edge of space.

Patrick Stewart’s tweets left an impression on anyone within a half mile of Twitter this year. Read what we have to say about them on this page.

Patrick Stewart, here with Ian McKellen, showed us a side of him we’d never seen before. handout Another kind of fame

Getting high off Patrick’s personality Making memes from Patrick Stewart’s many starring movie roles is nothing new for those who lurk the intertubes. But when his fiancé posted a video of an allegedly stoned Stewart giving her acting lessons on the art of the quadruple take, the Internet’s collective head caught a contact high. The powerful hit lasted throughout the year as Reddit and its kind obsessed over all things Stewart. From the serious (Stewart speaking about his own experiences with domestic violence) to the silly (him climbing into a bathtub dressed as a lobster), the former captain of the Star Trek Enterprise was sailing nothing but the good ship Awesome in 2013. METRO

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Chris Hadfield won the Internet this year with a viral hit that was anything but accidental. He evoked the beauty of our world by sharing how difficult it was to leave its orbital view. These are complex emotions that he somehow captured with an iPad recording of himself singing David Bowie’s Space Oddity.

His Space Station video lessons and tweeted photos revealed a master communicator who understands the web better than anyone. Through him we have an extraordinary connection to space exploration, but also an example of how a cynical web culture can embrace values that are sophisticated and sincere.

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scene

metronews.ca December 27, 2013

Top headlines of Hollywood’s 2013 They did what? It was a shock-and-awe year in celeb gossip, and Metro’s editors never hesitated to chime in on the tabloid chatter Pop culture gets a bad rap, according to Metro’s gossip editor, Dorothy Robinson. Sure, it’s lowbrow (especially when Miley Cyrus decides to take her clothes off with no deference to taste or talent) and it births fame-hungry monsters (Kimye, you are a creation even Walter Winchell couldn’t dream up). Yet, the hijinks and disasters of people who fly so very high take us away from the humdrum of everyday life. Keeping up with Miley is a nice distraction from the fact that the cable bill is due. Watching Beyonce at the Super Bowl is a reminder of what is humanly possible if you have drive, talent and a whole lot of luck. And witnessing the untimely deaths of two stars reminds us that even our little lives are ones worth living. In fact, maybe we’re the lucky ones, blessed to be outside looking in

Amanda on our minds

Reading between the Bynes While it seems 2013 was the year of the squeaky-cleansongtress-turned-train-wreck-tabloid-queen, there was arguably no one who was featured as consisently on Metro’s Dish page as former WB sweetheart Amanda Bynes. Multiple brushes with the law, airborn bongs, driveway fires, neon wigs and one trainwreck of a Twitter feed meant that Bynes all too often became our feature focus. Having recently received treatment for mental illness, we hope 2014 brings Amanda some peace, health and much-needed time away from the tabloids. Liz Beddall/Metro

Love them or hate them, it was hard to get off the blinged-out, baby-making bus that was Kimye this year. Amanda Bynes

getty images

— instead of the other way around. Here is what some of our editors had to say about the year in gossip: “I didn’t put the Royal Baby on my list because I thought that fell under news. Come on: Kate Middleton should

NEVER be on the same list as Miley or Kim Kardashian. And although Avril Lavigne marrying Chad Kroeger wasn’t earth-shaking, it was so delightfully weird that I thought it deserved a menDorothy Robinson’s picks

1 2

Miley Cyrus’ crazy year.

The evolution of Kimye (and the birth of baby North West).

3 4 5

Beyonce wins the Super Bowl. Cory Monteith overdosing.

Who wasn’t confused by this Canadian coupling? getty images

Cory Monteith’s untimely death shocked the world. getty images

Avril Lavigne marrying Chad Kroeger.

tion.” Dorothy Robinson “I, for one, definitely had Beyonce winning the Super Bowl on my list. Nothing can stop her, not even a blackout. I don’t even remember who actually played. All I remember is the Destiny’s Child reunion and Beyonce’s black lace body suit. She wins.” Emily Laurence

“I can’t find any evidence supporting the theory that Kanye has a sense of humor; I fear he is gravely serious. We mere mortals just do not understand him.” T. Michelle Murphy

I guess unlike other calculated ‘Look at me! I’m no longer a Disney pop princess! I’m now a woman!’ coming-out moments (see: Britney in

getty images

the red pleather body suit; Christina’s suggestive Genie in a Bottle), Miley’s coming out seems raw and unpolished. She’s going more for

shock value than sex appeal. Which, honestly, is slightly refreshing. Just put the tongue away, girlfriend.” Dorothy Robinson

Metro’s picks

Miley Cyrus ditches her clean-cut image by twerking at the MTV awards, smoking a joint on air at the MTV Europe Awards, and working with photographer Terry Richards — and those are just some of her antics.

Amanda Bynes — see Liz Beddall’s story to your right.

Kanye West and Kim Kardashian brought forth a baby and decided it would be

fun to name her North.

Justin Beiber wreaked havoc in his neighbourhood with his driving, peed in a bucket, lost his monkey, and then had a drama-filled South American tour before heading to Australia for more of the same.

Angelina Jolie surprised the world by announcing she underwent a double mastectomy.

LIFE

metronews.ca December 27, 2013

The five worst fitness trends of 2013 we hope don’t return Run from this trend.

VAWN HIMMELSBACH

being zapped by live wires is questionable. Perhaps next we’ll start seeing live wires attached to treadmills so you’ll get zapped if you’re not running fast enough.

life@metronews.ca

It’s not a bad idea to switch up your workout routine every now and then to challenge your muscles and stay motivated. But in the quest for new ways to do old exercises, some trends might be a tad questionable. Backwards running Sure, running can get monotonous, but is running backwards the answer? There’s a reason why people are doing it: According to a study by the U.S. National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health, running backwards uses 30 per cent more energy than moving forward at the same speed. And, supposedly, it’s easier on your knees. But let’s face it; running backwards is an accident waiting to happen since — if it’s not obvious — you can’t see where you’re going. Not to mention it looks ridiculous.

There is nothing wrong with weightlifting. But weightlifting in the heat doesn’t make sense.

Boutique/hybrid yoga If you’re into yoga, there are a variety of styles to suit your personality, from ashtanga to moksha to yin. But now, you can mix those warrior poses with … hula-hoops, trampolines and martial-arts kicks. Or do yoga on a paddleboard, to disco music or even with your dog (doga). But yoga isn’t about total body sculpting or getting a cardio workout — it’s about quieting your mind. And it’s hard to quiet your mind while doing disco moves in tree posture.

Extreme HIIT … for average Joes High-intensity interval training (or HIIT) has many benefits: Bursts of vigorous exercise (think squats and burpees) followed by brief rest periods can burn calories — fast. That’s why we’ve seen the rise of workouts like CrossFit, and the Insanity and P90X DVD series. But along with the increase in popularity of these types of workouts has come an increase in injury, from slipped disks to torn rotator cuffs. According to a recent study published by The Journal of Strength

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and Conditioning Research, 16 per cent of CrossFit participants quit the program due to overuse or injury. At least it’s good news for orthopedic surgeons. Themed runs (that involve barbed wire) Working out should be fun, and hey, who wouldn’t be motivated to run faster when being chased by zombies? While themed workouts from Tough Mudder to colour runs (running through clouds of coloured cornstarch) can be motivating or push you to challenge your endurance, any athletic endeavor that involves wading through ice water under barbed wire or

Hot weightlifting Traditional weightlifting remains one of the best ways to build muscle. But one of the latest fads takes weightlifting to a new level — pumping iron in the heat. The concept behind Bikram yoga (where the temperature in the room is cranked to 40.6 C with a humidity of 40 per cent) is now being applied to everything from barre to spinning and weightlifting classes. But according to a recent study by the American Council on Exercise, turning up the heat doesn’t actually burn extra calories. You just think you are, all the while risking dehydration and even heat stroke. If you like the heat, best to stick to Bikram.

LIFE

Year-end review. Workouts can get boring from time to time but these ideas on how to switch things up missed the mark this year.

LIFE

metronews.ca December 27, 2013

Design darlings of 2013 Style gurus Steven Sabados and Chris Hyndman take a look back at the top home-decor trends of the past year, and find the standout themes included artful lighting, lived-in linen, warm gold and brass accents, and the rustic look of unfinished wood. For more chic decor ideas, watch Steven & Chris weekdays at 2 p.m. on CBC. Emerald Green Emerald green, Pantone’s 2013 colour of the year, was eagerly and enthusiastically embraced by designers and consumers. From throw cushions to sofas and wall treatments, emerald green was undoubtedly this year’s “it” colour. Emerald green is vibrant, radiant and lush and it’s not surprising that its popularity also sparked a renewed interest in all things glam. Gold and brass This was the year many vintage favourites experienced a major comeback. Gold and brass, reminiscent of decades past, became a leading trend and surfaced anywhere from hardware finishes to decor accessories. Gold flatware appeared on tabletops. Chrome no longer dominated kitchen and bathroom fixtures as gold and brass taps offered a warm metallic glow in the room. Brass and gold decor accents became increasingly sought after this year

as the idea of mixing metallics grew in popularity. You don’t need to discard your existing finishes to incorporate brass and gold into your home decor, and that’s a key factor in the success of this design trend. Natural wood Natural wood was the material of choice for many this year. Raw wood tables with no varnish or treatments went from being showroom darlings to standard household decor. The versatility and durability of raw wood coupled with its natural patina over time make it a sensible and stylish solution for family living. The rustic look of natural unfinished wood has also been juxtaposed with cooler elements like chrome and glass in more formal areas of the home. Lighting as art Lighting as a form of artwork became a popular concept this

year. Form reigned over function for most of this year’s most desired light fixtures. In 2013, lighting made a statement in the room instead of just lighting it up. Over-scale light fixtures were also a big part of this trend. Chandeliers, pendants, sconces, table lamps and floor lamps have become key extensions of a room’s style and personality. The lived-in look In 2013, comfort was king with a big focus on natural fibres such as linen. The relaxed livedin look was seen in many up-

Emerald, which was Pantone’s 2013 colour of the year, showed up in a wide range of decor products including this Mohair Fringe Throw, $199, from zarahome.com.

holstered decor pieces such as casual wingback chairs and slipcovered sofas. Even drapery has moved away from traditional silk textiles to the more casual elegance of linen. The driving force of this trend is lifestyle and the move away from traditional formal choices to more liveable no-fuss options.

Natural wood was the material of choice for many this year, say Steven and Chris. Crate and Barrel’s Big Sur Natural collection, which includes dining tables, benches and a sideboard, has a polished wax finish and emphasizes the innate character of the wood. For more details, see crateandbarrel.com. Courtesy Crateandbarrel.com

LIFE

metronews.ca December 27, 2013

I’ll take a cerveza with that Year of Mexican food. You’ve been fooled long enough with cheesy dishes and store-bought salsa. Authentic Mexican is taking over — olé! Nutri-bites

Theresa Albert DHN, RNCP myfriendinfood.com

Remember when Mexican food meant cookie cutter platters of oddly coloured white rice with a bunch of stuff covered in cheese? You may have gotten a bowl of pre-fab corn chips and bottled salsa instead of bread as an appetizer. Luckily, 2013 saw the rise of true Mexican food. It showed up everywhere, from the very hip food truck culture running away with the foodie heart to the top end of just about every urban menu. Some of the foods that we can’t get enough include pulled pork, fish tacos and burritos. And you really haven’t lived Wine of the Year

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Mexican has gone beyond the smothered-in-cheese dishes. istock

unless you’ve found churros with the caramel-like dulce de leche sauce. (Don’t forget the side of tequila, which was the beverage of 2013.) Real Mexican food is wholesome, and it varies across the country from fish-based seaside to tropical fruit interiors, but they all have three things in common: corn, chili peppers and beans. The Europeans added pork, chicken and tomatoes and North Americans topped it all off with some flair. Taco night is no longer spice from a box mixed with ground beef and corn shells. Chicken Toss a chicken in the slow cook-

er with one of the many creative jars of salsa on the market and cook all day. Pull chicken from the bones and serve with tostadas, artisan corn and wheat tortillas plus toppings like frozen corn simply roasted on a cookie sheet in the oven. Cole Slaw Think about a grated cole slaw mix instead of shredded lettuce. Top with cocoa nibs, any manner of chopped chilies and any combo of fresh herbs. Serve with fresh lime juice and soda water with muddled mint (go ahead add some tequila!) Pulled Pork

Pulled pork couldn’t be easier. The low and slow oven versions create the best melt in your mouth recipes. Sauce options run the gamut from barbecue sauce to the chocolate and chili based mole sauce. This one pot wonder is the best crowd pleaser to come out of this Mexican trend. Pork shoulder or arm is an affordable (if fatty) cut that can’t be ruined as long as you keep the oven temperature below 300 and the time at least an hour per pound. Churro Dip Since churros are hard to find, must be fresh and deep frying is a pain (not to mention crazy unhealthy!) Why not go with the classic churro dip: dulce de leche and forgo the donut? This sweet milk caramel sauce can be now purchased jarred but the quickie cheater recipe using only sweetened, condensed milk is ridiculously easy. Theresa Albert is a Food Communications Specialist and Toronto Personal Nutritionist. She is @ theresaalbert on twitter and found daily at www.myfriendinfood.com

SPORTS

metronews.ca December 27, 2013

Sports

Halifax sports fans watched a prodigious Mooseheads team flourish and a disappointing Rainmen squad flounder in 2013

Highlights of 2013. Metro sports reporter recalls his favourite interview this year ANDREW RANKIN

andrew.rankin@metronews.ca

One of my goals as a reporter, when the circumstances allow, is to strive to go beyond writing stories just about a sport or an athlete. I try to show relatable side of my subjects. I think many readers have a desire to connect with a subject on a personal, human level. For any number of reasons, it’s sometimes difficult to make an athlete open up enough to reveal interesting, More than a game

“It’s about the four of us, and having some fun with his career as opposed to it being a struggle now.” MacKenzie Weegar’s mother, Louise

unique insights about their true selves. In my year as the Halifax Mooseheads beat reporter I’ve had a chance to get to know some players better than others and have written some stories that have seemed to resonate with our readership. Mooseheads defenceman MacKenzie Weegar has been an especially good interview. No matter the circumstances he’s always available to talk, always has a good quote or two. My favourite story of the year centres on Weegar and how hockey has impacted his family for the better. I sat down with Weegar and his parents, Louise and Scott, in their home city of Ottawa while covering the Mooseheads’ playoff run in nearby Gatineau, Que. I was struck by how open the trio was, how the parents opened up about their difficult divorce, how MacKenzie ended up for a significant time living with friends of the family. Through it all MacKenzie continued to play hockey. He was passed up in the OHL draft. He persevered. He rose the ranks from Junior A to making the Mooseheads as a rookie last year to being drafted by the Florida Panthers last June.

Halifax Mooseheads defenceman MacKenzie Weegar sits next to his mother, Louise, last April. DEVAAN INGRAM/FOR METRO

Slowly, the Weegars, including his sister, Emily, have drawn closer and they all agree that Mackenzie’s blossoming career has played a profound role in breaking down the barriers and healing old wounds. “It’s about the four of us, and

having some fun with his career as opposed to it being a struggle now,” said Louise. Same goes for MacKenzie, who holds no resentment regarding his upbringing. “I’m proud not just for myself but for my sister too,” said

2 4

MacKenzie. “We’ve all come a long way.” It’s a story underlined by hardship that we can all relate to. But it’s also an inspiring journey illustrating the power of forgiveness, hope and family ties.

The stories that captured the attention of the city’s sports fanatics ANDREW RANKIN/METRO

Epic Moose squad wins the Memorial

The welcome return of Drouin

The Mooseheads were a team destined for greatness last season. Powered by a top line of Nathan MacKinnon, Jonathan Drouin and Martin Frk, and a potent supporting cast, the Mooseheads breezed through the regular season with a record of 58-6-3-1. They capped that off with the franchise’s first President and Memorial Cup titles.

Mooseheads fans got an early Christmas present compliments of the Tampa Bay Lightning. In September, the club assigned Jonathan Drouin, the reigning CHL player of the year, to the Herd. His addition made the Mooseheads into an immediate contender. He’s recorded 50 points in just 23 games.

1 3 5 Justine Colley is the real deal

Justine Colley has outright dominated Atlantic University Sport women’s basketball over her five-year career. Last season, the East Preston native became the first player from the conference to win Canadian Interuniversity Sport women’s basketball player of the year.

MacKinnon earns his spot at the top

In the days leading up to last June’s NHL draft, it was uncertain who would be picked first overall. Nathan MacKinnon’s MVP performance at the Memorial Cup appeared to solidify his place at the top. Speculation turned to celebration when the Cole Harbour native was selected No. 1 by the Colorado Avalanche.

Rainmen falling into drought

After making it to the NBL Canada final in 2012, the Halifax Rainmen failed to keep form in 2013. After a season that included roster changes and the hiring and firing of two coaches, the team failed to make the playoffs. This season they started at 0-10.

SPORTS

Player’s time with Moose helps heal family wounds

SPORTS

metronews.ca December 27, 2013

The past year has produced several highs and lows throughout the sports landscape, with the following grabbing our attention above all the others.

The Canadian Press

The end of the NHL lockout Hockey fans rejoiced when the NHL and the NHL Players’ Association reached a tentative deal to end the lockout in the early hours of Jan. 6. The agreement was ratified by the board of governors three days later. Just over five months later, the Chicago Blackhawks won their second Stanley Cup in four years.

NHL commissioner Gary Bettman apologized following the lockout. Getty IMages

Leafs collapse in epic fashion The Toronto Maple Leafs made the playoffs for the first time since 2004 and looked set to advance to the second round when the wheels fell off in spectacular fashion. Toronto led Boston 4-1 with just over 11 minutes to go in the third period of Game 7, only to see the Bruins score three times in quick succession in regulation and again in overtime to send the Maple Leafs packing. Phil Kessel Torstar News SErvice

A season of disappointment

The Toronto Blue Jays came into 2013 as World Series favourites after a blockbuster off-season that included a 12-player megadeal with the Florida Marlins and the acquisition of reigning National League Cy Young winner R.A. Dickey. But with the city buzzing at the thought of meaningful September baseball for the first time since the team’s championship years in 1992 and 1993, the campaign was bust from the start. Brett Lawrie Torstar News Service

Canada’s top

sports stories of the year

GSP steps away

UFC welterweight champion Georges St-Pierre successfully defended his title twice in 2013. But after a bruising and controversial split-decision victory over Johny Hendricks on Nov. 16, the Montreal fighter hinted at retirement in a cryptic post-fight interview in the cage that included a reference to unexplained personal issues and his need to step away from the sport. Then, on Dec. 13, St-Pierre vacated his title and announced an indefinite hiatus from the Octagon, citing the pressures of being Georges St-Pierre The Canadian Press champion.

Raonic’s rise Tennis star Milos Raonic became the first Canadian to crack the ATP top-10 list. The Thornhill, Ont., player made the Rogers Cup final in Montreal and was also instrumental in leading Canada to the Davis Cup semifinals. Also making big gains on the court in 2013 were Vancouver’s Vasek Pospisil and Montreal’s Eugenie Bouchard, who both shot up the rankings.

Milos Raonic Getty Images

Canadian hoops history Anthony Bennett shocked many observers on June 27 when he became the first-ever Canadian to go No. 1 at the NBA draft, selected by the Cleveland Cavaliers. “I’m just as surprised as everybody else,” the Brampton native said. Meanwhile, Vaughan’s Andrew Wiggins was Anthony Bennett is greeted by named the top high NBA commissioner David Stern school player in the U.S. upon being drafted. Getty IMages

CFL double for Cornish

Calgary Stampeders running back Jon Cornish became the first Canadian in 35 years to win the CFL’s most outstanding player award. Cornish, who was also named the league’s top Canadian for the second straight year, is the first Canuck to be named CFL MVP since Ottawa Rough Riders tight end Tony Gabriel in 1978. Cornish finished the 2013 season with 1,813 yards rushing and 12 touchdowns. Jon Cornish went on to win the 2013 Lou Marsh award as Canada’s top athlete. The Canadian Press

SPORTS

metronews.ca December 27, 2013

Answer to ending Jays’ drought? It’s Pat! Sports reporter in London, Ont.

There is a wonderful piece of trivia surrounding legendary Blue Jays general manager Pat Gillick, and it goes like this. After leading the Blue Jays to two World Series titles (1992, ’93) and five division titles (1985, ’89, ’91, ’92, ’93), Gillick left the team in 1994.

And the Jays have not made the playoffs since. In 1995, Gillick joined Baltimore as general manager and the Orioles made the playoffs in 1996 and ’97. He left the team after his threeyear contract ended. The Orioles then went on a streak of 14 losing seasons before finally making the playoffs once in 2012. Next, Gillick took his

genius to Seattle where the Mariners made the playoffs in 2000 and 2001, the only time in their history they made the post-season in back-to-back seasons. He left the team in 2003. And, yes, the Mariners have not made the playoffs since. His next stop was Philadelphia where, as general manager, he led the Phillies to his third World Series

championship. Now retired as GM, he continues to work for the Phillies as a senior advisor. Meanwhile, the three teams he left behind have a grand total of one playoff appearance in 44 seasons. And with the Blue Jays currently priding themselves on promotions such as Flashback Fridays, they need to bring back the most important per-

son in their 36-year history — Lawrence Patrick David Gillick. God knows they’ve tried everything else. The team has just come off the most anticipated season since it last made the playoffs — and won the World Series — 20 years ago. But the much-hyped 2013 was a disaster in every way. It started with Opening Day and never let up. April 2 was the day a truly horrendous fielding catcher with some admitted pop in his bat talked manager John Gibbons and general manager Alex Anthopoulos into letting him catch a Cy Youngwinning knuckleball pitcher the Jays had acquired in the off-season. Before a crowd of 48,847 at the Rogers Centre, catcher J.P. Arencibia allowed three passed balls — should have been four but a wonky scorer decision saved him — and the Blue Jays, with R.A. Dickey on the mound, lost 4-1 to the Cleveland Indians.

The Jays’ leaders in 2013

Wins: R.A. Dickey, 14 Strikeouts: R.A. Dickey, 177 Saves: Casey Janssen, 34 Batting average: Adam Lind, .288 Homers: Edwin Encarnacion, 36 RBIs: Encarnacion, 104 Hits: Encarnacion, 144

Arencibia never caught Dickey again and batted .194 on the season in which he miraculously was allowed to have 474 at bats. Yes, there were pitching challenges and injuries all season long, with starters in and out of the lineup, and the Shuffle Off to Buffalo theme song was the team’s No. 1 hit. But the tedious season in which the Jays finished last in the five-team division was essentially lost that day in April. The only way to turn the franchise around is to bring back the Blue Jay legend, Pat Gillick. Even at the age of 76.

The Blue Jays and starting pitcher R.A. Dickey crumbled under the World Series-sized expectations in Toronto in 2013. Getty Images file

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Queen Sana 1157 Tower Road

2 Bedrooms starting at $1300

Call Tena at 830-6008 Email: qs@templetonproperties.ca

Call 789-9981

Can’t get a hold of us? Call our help line at 1-877-638-2271 or email us at leasing@metcap.com

Read every Monday & Wednesday.

December 27

BUI NEW LDI NG Occupancy NOW or later ONE MONTH FREE RENT

One and Two Bedroom Apartments from $900/Month. Includes infloor heating, h/w, balcony, 6 appliances.

Come and See the View at Sea View Landing

TempletonProperties.ca

5 corners near downtown. Harbourvista Apts.

222 Portland St • 809-2221 • www.harbourvista.ca

Premium Amenities

BRA Now ND R e NEW n BUI ting LDI NG

The Huntington at 58 Holtwood Court

WOW!

$1000 Move In

Incentive!*

Newly renovated 1, 2 & 3 BR units Starting at just $600 Clean and spacious apartments.

830-7595

* Pet Friendly

info@blueiron.ca

6 Floors of Breathtaking Views & the Latest in Luxury

Located on Rolieka Dr & Churchill Court, in Dartmouth. Comfortable walking distance to shopping, dining and banking.Short drive to Mic Mac Mall and Dartmouth Crossing. On Metro Transit Bus Routes #10 & #54

Call 902-830-1296

or email pinegreenpark@hotmail.ca for more details.

*To new qualified tenants

March 1

Apartment FinderTo advertise To advertise contact KristaatRodgers at 421-5861 December 27 Apartment Finder contact Krista Rodgers 421-5861 211 Willett Street Clayton Park t Halifax, NS

MOVE IN BONUS

THE WELSFORD 2074 ROBIE STREET

ES LOWER PRIC

OCEAN BROOK PARK 20-80 CHARLOTTE LANE

SPECTACULAR VIEWS, SHORT BUS RIDE TO DAL & SMU BACHELORS, 1 & 2 BEDROOMS FROM $810 902-334-0499 RENTALS@CAPREIT.NET

MOVE IN BONUS

NEW

NEWLY RENOVATED, STYLISH, SPACIOUS & WELCOMING 1, 2 & 3 BEDROOMS FROM $815 902-334-0506 RENTALS@CEPREIT.NET

PARK VICTORIA, 1333 SOUTH PARK STREET

SOMERSET PLACE 1030 SOUTH PARK STREET

PREMIER DOWNTOWN LOCATION, WALKING DISTANCE TO DAL AND SMU 1, 2 & 3 BEDROOMS FROM $1000 902-334-0497 RENTALS@CEPREIT.NET

DOWNTOWN LOCATION JUST STEPS TO SMU, DINING, SHOPPING & MORE BACHELORS, JR. 1 & 2 BEDROOMS FROM $775 902-334-0948 RENTALS@CAPREIT.NET

Forrest Green is close to all the amenities I need, yet secluded and beautiful. It’s the perfect combination of rural and urban living. t 2

& 3 bedroom suites available includes: all utilities, appliances & parking t Quiet masonery construction t Full-time resident superintendent t Secure monitored entry t Rent

NO SECURITY DEPOSIT FOR SENIORS To view or for brochure call 902.443.6252

Visit us online at forrestgreen.ca

FULLY FURNISHED SUITES Bachelor, One and Two Bedroom Suites Available --DAILY, WEEKLY, MONTHLY Fully equipped kitchens, laundry facilities, free parking, internet and utilities included. Located on Lake Maynard in Downtown Dartmouth, near Penhorn, Woodlawn and Mic Mac malls.

341 Portland St, Dartmouth T: 464 1114 F: 464 1124 sunsettowers@accesscable.net

For those without a Metro, the forecast calls for “I dunno” with a slight chance of “huhhh?”

LY E DAI HOUS N OPE

Preview a great selection of apartments online www.universalproperties.ca or call us:

Halifax Apartments

1881, 1991 & 2001 Brunswick Street 1-888-724-4432

Bachelor, 1 Bdm, 2 Bdm, Penthouse & Furnished Suites

• Direct access to downtown Located in the heart of Halifax via pedways Downtown Halifax • Indoor Pool • Jacuzzi, Sauna & Fitness Facility • Underground Parking • Heat & Hot water included • ASK ABOUT OUR RENTAL INCENTIVES

For more information visit: www.realstar.ca

GARRISON WATCH/ HARBOUR RIDGE

CUNARD COURT

SPRING GARDEN APARTMENTS

MACDONALD APARTMENTS

STONECREST VILLAGE

5536 Sackville Street Halifax

2065 Brunswick Street Halifax

5770 Spring Garden Road Halifax

5885 Cunard Street Halifax

80 Chipstone Close Halifax

105 & 144 Baker Drive Dartmouth

1-888-551-3754

1-866-862-7157

1 BR, 2 BR, 2 BR Large

866-957-7054

1 BR, 2 BR

1-888-649-3721

Bachelor, 1 BR, 2 BR

1-888-472-1299

Bachelor, 1 BR, 2 BR

1-888-695-9124

BAKER ARMS/ WEXFORD

1 BR, 2 BR, 2 BR Large, 3 BR

2 BR, 2 BR Large

• No Security Deposit on some Suites • 24/7 on Site Management team • Safe & Secure Buildings • Pet Friendly • Daily Open House

For more information visit: www.realstar.ca

BEDFORD HEIGHTS

22-40 Bedros Lane Halifax 2 BR, 2 BR Large

1-888-698-1430

Apartment FinderTo advertise To advertise contact KristaatRodgers at - December  Apartment Finder contact Krista Rodgers -

TRUE WATERFRONT LUXURY

ONE MONTH FREE RENT!

mmute short co

ols to scho ls & hospita

Size from 1333 to 2167 sq. ft.

Starting at per month!

292-5163

For more information please contact g.potoroka@providentdevelopments.com Grant:

Harbour View Apartments, 2334 Longard Plaza Just a short walk to to CFB Halifax & shipyard Bachelors, 1, 2 & 3 bedrooms from $750

902-334-0489 • rentals@capreit.net *Conditions apply. Call for details

The Majestic 64 Bedros Lane

This view could be yours!

55+ do not pay damage deposit • Starting at $1,395

Open House • Saturday & Sunday 2-4pm or by appointment With only 6 units per floor, The Majestic creates a cozy welcoming feel. Our sunfilled hallways over look the Ravines Trail, so you can enjoy the lush nature that surrounds you. With 4 spacious, well designed layouts, all with a harbour view, and no neighbours across the hall, you will be sure to find a unit that best meets your living needs.

· Underground Parking · Large balconies · Heat / Hot Water / Air Conditioning Included · Large Private Storage · Walking and biking trails · Gym · Convenient Location · 6 Appliances

FREE Eastlink Internet, Phone and Cable for one full year!

Each unit has a stunning view of Halifax Harbour

830-9000

Brand New Building Now Leasing The CALL SANDI

Azure at Mount Royale

16 Bently Drive (Corner of Washmill Lake Drive)

488-7368 FOR APPOINTMENT TO VIEW

www.wmapartments.ca

PLAY

metronews.ca December 27, 2013

Horoscopes

Aries

March 21 - April 20 You are on the threshold of a spectacular breakthrough. Which only goes to show that when you focus on a goal and follow up on it consistently, you can be a success. But don’t get too full of yourself.

Taurus

April 21 - May 21 You need a change of direction and the planets will see that you get it. But don’t worry. You will like what the next few weeks bring your way very much indeed.

Gemini

May 22 - June 21 You are who you are for a reason. If you stop wasting time fantasizing about who you would like to be and focus on doing a better job of who you are, you will soon be both successful and happy.

Cancer

June 22 - July 23 Your problems are not as bad as you think, so quit worrying. Cosmic activity in your opposite sign of Capricorn will bring relationship matters to a head over the weeks, but there is no need to panic. You’ll survive.

Leo

July 24 - Aug. 23 You may be tempted to change something that has worked for years, but is that a good idea? There is every possibility that you will go too far and change things in a revolutionary rather than an evolutionary way.

Virgo

Aug. 24 - Sept. 23 Play to your strengths and don’t let what others are doing affect you in any way. There are some things you do better than most and those are the things you should be focusing on.

Libra

Sept. 24 - Oct. 23 If you have been taking a loved one for granted, this could be a tricky day. Somehow you need to convince them that your feelings are still the same but it will take more than just words.

Scorpio

Oct. 24 - Nov. 22 Something important is about to happen and chances are you will enjoy it. Most likely it will have something to do with your social life, so get out into the world and smile big!

Sagittarius

Nov. 23 - Dec. 21 You may come into money over the next few days but it would be wrong to count on it to get you out of trouble. The only way you are going to improve your financial situation is to cut back on your commitments.

Capricorn

Dec. 22 - Jan. 20 As cosmic activity in your sign reaches a peak over the new year period, you’ll have to deal with situations that in the past you’ve tried to avoid. The good news is solutions can be found, but you’ve got to act now.

Aquarius

Jan. 21 - Feb. 19 If your present approach to a problem is not working then clearly you need to tackle it from a different angle. Some people say you’re too inflexible, too set in your ways to change. Prove them wrong.

See today’s answers at metronews.ca/answers.

Crossword: Canada Across and Down

Across 1. Pasta, e.g. 5. 17th Greek letters 9. Mother-of-pearl 14. __ code 15. Nobleman 16. Once more 17. December 26th significance: 2 wds. 19. Rene of movies 20. Be drifting alone at sea ...but suddenly become joyful!: 2 wds. 21. Slightly adjusts 22. Accompaniment 23. Musical fifth note, variantly 24. Exclaimed “That hurts!”, say 25. Shopping: Door__ special 30. George Michael’s ‘80s group! 33. Architect Mr. Saarinen 36. France’s longest river 37. Rush 38. Pilotless aircraft 40. Gift Tag: To and __ 41. Nimbi 43. Prince of Wales’ motto, Ich __ (I Serve) 44. Dick Tracy’s beloved, __ Trueheart 45. ‘50s TV series about a Quebec family, “La famille __” 47. Best, __-rated 49. Fee-fi-fo-__ 50. North or South, in The States

53. Neil Young song: 2 wds. 57. Subscriber’s extension 58. Wickerworker’s willow 59. Traditional pudding of Newfoundland: 2 wds.

Dec. 24th’s Crossword

Pisces

Feb. 20 - March 20 Pay attention to what loved ones tell you over the next 24 hours because they can see something that you missed. If you listen to what they say and act on their advice, it could save you trouble. SALLY BROMPTON

For more puzzles and games during the holidays, visit metronews.ca/games

By Kelly Ann Buchanan

61. Billy Bob Thornton flick, “The Man Who __ There” (2001) 62. ‘Myth’ suffix 63. National Velvet author Ms. Bagnold 64. Tiffs 65. Foundation 66. Lines of travel, for

short Down 1. Taxi 2. Sprang up 3. T. __ (Some dinosaurs) 4. __-__, Quebec (Former PM Brian Mulro-

Sudoku

How to play Fill in the grid, so that every row, every column and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1-9. There is no math involved.

Dec. 24’s Sudoku

ney’s birthplace) 5. Viewed as 6. “In case you __ noticed...” 7. Toward the mouth 8. Slick 9. Arctic whale having a spiral tusk 10. Chill

11. House, in Havana 12. Board game 13. Biblical grandson 18. Sugar substitute, Sweet’_ __ 21. Maple Leafs, on scoreboards 23. Elegant biscuit 26. Ski slope surface sometimes: 2 wds. 27. Contract 28. God of love in Greek mythology 29. Sleep stages, commonly 30. Gift __ 31. Transport stuff 32. Prefix to ‘phobia’ (Fear of heights) 34. Canadian fashion designer Mr. Moralioglu 35. French queen’s mate 39. Mire 42. Attempts 46. Amusing 48. __-dokey 50. Manet painting contemporary 51. Razz 52. 1966 Michael Caine film 53. Awesomenesses! 54. Office request [acronym] 55. Marge’s daughter 56. Prince Michael of __ (Queen Elizabeth’s cousin) 57 Costa __ 59. Taradiddle 60. Hose-using rescue units, for short