How YOU Can Vote in the Upcoming Federal Election

It is an exciting time in Canadian politics, as the federal election is scheduled to be held Monday, April 28th 2025. Here is how you, yes YOU, specifically, can have your voice be heard and exercise your foundational democratic right to vote.

At minimum you must be a Canadian citizen and at least 18 years of age to vote in any election within Canada.

Voting in the federal election is a little different than voting in a provincial election. In the latest Nova Scotia provincial election, you could vote anywhere in the province ahead of the election date and have your vote count in your home riding. This is not so in the federal election. As noted on the Elections Canada website, you must vote at your assigned polling station.

However, so long as you are able to prove residency in the riding of Cape Breton–Canso–Antigonish (the riding StFX is located in), you can register to vote in this riding for any of this riding’s candidates. You must be able to produce TWO forms of ID to vote in the Cape Breton–Canso–Antigonish riding, one of which must contain your current address within the riding.

Acceptable forms of ID include but are not limited to: A driver’s license or any other official identification issued by a Canadian government (federal, provincial, or municipal), your student ID, a bank statement, a piece of official correspondence from the university about your residency, a utility bill, or a lease or sub-lease. An exhaustive list can be found on the Elections Canada website. Students who live on campus can request a proof of residency letter from the Residence Office.

As confirmed by the university’s President’s Office, there will be advanced polling open April 13th and 18th in the Keating Centre Hospitality Suites from 7am-10:30pm, open to StFX students only. General advanced polling, which will be open to the town as well, are scheduled for April 18th and 21st from 7am-10:30pm in the Bloomfield Mackay Room. Election day polls will also be open in the Bloomfield Mackay Room.

You can also apply to vote by mail. The deadline to apply for mail-in voting is 6pm, April 22nd. Deadlines still apply, so you must take that into account the time it takes for your ballot to reach its destination. You will receive a voting kit and instructions on how to cast your ballot. Once you opt to cast you vote by mail, you will be prohibited from voting in-person, so keep that in mind.

You could cast a special ballot at an Elections Canada office by 6pm on April 22nd. The nearest Elections Canada offices are located at 74 Main Street, Guysborough, NS, and 811 Reeves Street, Port Hawkesbury, NS.

It must be noted that you can only vote in one riding. Voting in any more than a single riding is illegal. The penalty for voter fraud could be up to five years in prison, or a fine of up to $50,000.

StFX Hosts Former Deputy Premier and Current Cape Breton-Canso-Antigonish Federal Conservative Candidate Allan MacMaster for Discussion: Where Are We Going Next in Canada?

For transparency's sake, I am a member of the XPCs.

On Tuesday March 18th, the StFX Political Science Society sponsored an address by former deputy premier and current federal Conservative Party of Canada candidate Allan MacMaster at Mulroney Hall, promoted by the Xaverian Progressive Conservatives. It boasted a full classroom of around 45 attendees including members of the town, county, and student body. The Cape Breton native opened with a speech then transitioned into a question period.

He began by stating that during his time working for the Bank of Montreal, they would look to whether a stock market was being driven by fear or greed. Today, he said, the markets are driven by fear.

MacMaster reiterated worries many Canadians have about the United States' aggressive tariffs threatening to stagnate an economy that is already struggling, but also noted the opportunity that has arisen for us to take a step back and ask ourselves if free trade is really working for the Canadian people in the best way it can.

Early on in his speech he begged the question, does free, globalization of trade always make our lives better? He noted how it leads to cheaper, more disposable goods that negatively impact the environment, not to mention the pocketbooks of those who have to purchase them again and again. Planned obsolescence was a constant theme.

MacMaster emphasized that the growing push to buy local was our chance to create a market reaction that could encourage businesses to start producing in Canada, but that the government has a place in setting the standard. Some interesting ideas that he suggested from a regulation perspective were minimum lifespans for consumer goods, and something like a right to fix your own products, referencing the fact that Samsung stops manufacturing parts for some of its products only a few years after release, forcing you to buy an entirely new product.

However, the former Inverness MLA insisted that localization only works if we produce high quality products. In response to a question on whether it was feasible to bring industry to a relatively unproductive province like Nova Scotia, he acknowledged that investment is crucial to improving productivity. It’s not that Nova Scotian’s are any less hard working, they just aren’t equipped to produce at the same level as their American counterparts.

After taking a question about the future of the economy from a student, MacMaster related it to similar concerns people had in the 80’s when interest rates were upwards of 20%. Eventually things cooled down and the economy got better. His advice for students was this: focus on your studies, get a job you enjoy, start making money and put a little aside if you can. In 5 years, you might be looking at a very different world.

Antigonish Puts Students at Risk of Large Fines with “Nuisance Party By-Law”

Some extra-perceptive students may have noticed receiving a suspiciously vague email prior to this year’s St. Paddy’s day celebrations. This email—sent on behalf of the school—contained all the usual (and often ignored) warnings: don’t hold a street party, keep your celebrations on campus, etc, etc. However, an important note was snuck in amongst these messages, warning students of Antigonish’s “Nuisance Party By-law”—a semi-recent embodiment of the community’s crack-down on student partying culture. This recent edition puts students at large risk of receiving significant fines for partying-related offences. The specific details are outlined below:

On October 11th 2023, a special meeting of the Antigonish town council approved the new “Nuisance Party By-law.” In simple terms, this new by-law gives enforcement officers a substantial amount of power to act against party hosts and party goers, allowing them to hand out offence tickets and large fines to anyone attending a gathering that is considered a “nuisance.”

The by-law outlines the penalties for any offence or failure to comply as “not less than four hundred dollars ($400.00) for a first offence, not less than six hundred ($600.00) for second offence and no less than nine hundred ($900.00) for a third and any subsequent offences.”

The bill defines a “nuisance party” as “a gathering on property which, by reason of the conduct or any one or more of the person(s) in attendance, is characterized by any one or more of the following elements:

a) Public intoxication;

b) The unlawful sale, furnishing, or distribution of alcoholic beverages or other controlled substances;

c) The unauthorized deposit of litter on public or private property;

d) Damage to public or private property;

e) The obstruction of vehicular or pedestrian traffic or interference with the ability to provide emergency services;

f) Sound that is unusual or excessive, or that is likely to be unwanted by disturbing to persons, as described in the Town of Antigonish Noise Control By-Law;

g) Unauthorized open burning as described in the Outdoor Fire By-Law;

h) Public disturbance, including confrontations or violence;

i) Outdoor public urination or defecation; or

j) Use of or entry upon a roof not intended for such occupancy.

To be clear, any gathering that meets even one of these elements will fall under this new by-law. Hosting or attending a so-called “nuisance party” is all the riskier, as enforcement officers have significantly more power than in previous years.

For instance, upon receiving an order to discontinue a party, it is expected that every non-resident leave immediately and for the party to cease. This is outlined in section 5.1 and 5.2 of the by-law. Failure to comply may result in a first offence ticket ($400.00). However, section 5.3 goes on the explain that this order must only be given within a “reasonable amount time” following the violation. This specification means that a party may be classified as a nuisance without the host being made aware for an unspecified amount of time. Under these conditions, it is possible for a person to receive multiple offences without realizing they have already been issued one, resulting in large fines stacking atop each other (up to $600.00, $900.00, or more).

Further complications emerge in section 7.4. This section makes clear that the offence of a nuisance party is attached to the property, not the residents of the property. This creates cause for concern for students, who switch in and out of rental properties every few years. If tenants in the previous year received an order to discontinue a nuisance party, any offences on behalf of the new tenants (within a 2 year timeframe of the original order) would be treated as a subsequent (second, third, etc.) offence, even if it was their first. They would. As a result, be “subject to higher fines.”

It is unclear that the by-law has any large restrictions against the power of enforcement officers. The by-law seems to give the right to act to any officer who believes on “reasonable grounds” that an offence has been committed—which could be as simple as attending a party that has a few stray cans lying around. Even in these circumstances, the party could be considered a “nuisance,” something that is up to the discretion of a singular individual.

Other offences in which a ticket may be given include, but are not limited to: hosting a nuisance party, allowing a nuisance party on their property, failing to leave after having been directed to leave, standing or sitting upon a roof, hanging a poster or banner with “offensive language” in a public place, or “promot[ing] the unsafe consumption of intoxication substances.” The full list can be found in the linked PDF at the bottom of this article.

Whether or not the by-law will be followed in the strictest sense (for example, receiving an offence because there are a few stary cans around the property), remains to be seen. Because the decisions are largely left to the discretion of individual officers, a lack of consistency on what is deemed a nuisance is likely. Rather than a strict guideline outlining how students will be charged for specific acts, the bill acts more like deterrent. Officers may not take all the actions they are permitted through the ambiguous wording of this by-law, but the important part seems to be that they could.

A PDF copy of this by-law is linked here.

An Explosion of Societies: The Result of a Harsh Job Climate

It seems that every year there are more and more societies to take part in during the school year. This may seem strange as there are plenty of societies that fit almost identical niches. From multiple societies focused on respective disciplines such as marketing or engineering, to event-based societies that spend the entirety of the school year counting down to one large event with several fundraisers leading up to it. This is all fine of course; it is even encouraging to routinely see student leadership on campus, as these societies provide great opportunities for students to operate within a functional organization. There does, however, seem to be a case to be made about some societies stepping on other’s toes, so to speak.

I have one theory as to why this may be happening—a theory that is rooted in the conditions of the post-grad world. Today’s workforce demands excellence more than ever before. As sad as it is to see in the formally industrial towns across this province which we call home (at least during the school year) automation and outsourcing have replaced much of Nova Scotia’s—and even Canada’s—manual labour jobs.

If you are uncertain about the validity of the claim that the trades are dying out in Nova Scotia, you need not look further than the recent legislation allowing NSCC, the province’s community college system, to grant degrees. This decision marks a clear move away from the trades.

Throughout my life I have routinely bashed the extreme entrance barriers universities have in place that prevent low-income high school graduates from attending university. However, we must look at what a massive influx in degree holders could look like for the job market. When automation first began, a degree became the way to guarantee a stable income and retirement. Now though, a degree may not be enough. It may even be worth less in the near future. Notably, I want to mention that this problem results solely from the increasing number of degree holders; I fully trust NSCC’s educational capabilities and their ability to compete with Nova Scotia universities. And yes, I am biased as a community college graduate.

So, how does this relate back to societies? What the explosion of societies offers over a degree is a named position to put on a resume, with the position held in the highest regard being that of the society president. With fewer societies, there is less opportunity for students to have the honour of this title on their resume as they enter the workforce post-graduation. But with more societies comes more presidents. An unintended result, however, is the potential for society overlap. Currently, many societies fill similar niches despite being unrelated. And this is all so students can compete in a brutal job market. I do not blame students for doing this at all—these actions are made solely to adapt to our ever-changing world. We are already seeing the results of today’s changing market, and this is even without mentioning other factors like the rise of artificial intelligence or wages that haven’t risen to meet inflation.

If I were to compare this problem to anything we’ve observed before—and bear with me here because this may seem like a stretch—I would compare this to the extinction of the dinosaurs. This may sound absolutely insane, but please hear me out and keep me away from a padded room. After the mass extinction event, in which we are looking at the extinction, or at the very least a decrease in manual labour and entry-level jobs, mammals were met with a very harsh world and greatly diversified in order to survive in a brutally competitive environment. One such occurrence that happened was convergent evolution, where two unrelated species adapted in the same way and filled the same niche. We see the exact same thing in several of StFX’s societies: they are unrelated but fill the same niche. Am I comparing the current competitiveness of the job market to one of the most devastating times in our planet’s history? Yes. Am I also comparing the explosion of student-led societies to that of one of the largest explosions of life and biodiversity in our planet’s history? Also, yes.

As absurd as this comparison may seem, it exemplifies the dire struggle of students entering a workforce in which a degree may not be seen as enough—where four years of school and student loan debt are not enough. When this happens, we adapt as we always have.

The Importance of Charity in Sport

The world of North American professional sports is the world of one of the most profitable industries in the Western world. Star athletes (and State Farm commercials) appear on the nation’s biggest stage, with many signing massive multi-million-dollar contracts funded by the combination of billionaires, ticket sales, lucrative TV deals, and so many sponsors. It may seem like a foregone conclusion that these athletes have an image to keep up, and as a result, stay away from charity donations. But I believe that it runs deeper than that. The move to support charities isn’t just a public relations move but a value ingrained into the very fabric of sport. With sport, there must be sportsmanship, and charity is the ultimate form of that.

The inspiration for this article came from the recent Pucks for Purpose hockey games, an excellent display of student leadership, charitable community efforts, corporate sponsorships, event planning, and entertainment. Even though AUS athletes do not have the wealth present in professional sports leagues, their participation in the event brought about the perfect marriage of charity and sport. More importantly, these games show that charity can flourish regardless of the level of funding. No matter how much wealth a person does or does not have, sportsmanship is founded on respect for peers in the sport. It isn’t hard to see how that can be extended to respect for the community and viewing us as all on the same team.

One of my personal favourite charitable organizations run by an athlete is Craig’s Closet, run by the Pittsburgh Steelers' Cam Heyward. Cam, being the recipient of the 2023 Walter Payton Man of the Year award—an honour bestowed upon the most charitable NFL player of the season—named this organization after his late father who could not afford a proper fitting suit growing up. The organization allows young men to have formal attire that they would otherwise not be able to afford.

My own experience working at Tip Top Tailors makes this specific charity dear to me. While working there, I saw young and older men alike struggle to afford formal attire for events. The young men stick out to me particularly clearly, as the Cape Breton Regional Municipality (my home county) has one of the highest child poverty rates in all of Nova Scotia. It was always difficult to see a mother come in for her son’s prom and not be able to afford a suit because so many other expenses needed to be covered just to survive. Seeing an athlete, with who knows how much money between contracts, various sponsorships, and other business ventures, be recognized for his charity directly addressing a problem that hit so close to home for me made me and the struggles I witnessed daily feel seen.

With this, I cannot stress enough how impressed I am—and how impressed the rest of the student body should be—with an event like Pucks for Purpose. Going beyond sport, it is an amazing charity project that takes an insane amount of coordination to pull off successfully. And the respect that sportsmanship brings through something like this, even though I can’t even ice skate, reminds us that we are all part of one team in our small, college town community.

Craft Breweries, Cafes, and Antigonish’s Third Spaces

With the advent that was the smartphone back when most of us were just toddlers, there came into existence a new pastime: scrolling. I’m guilty of it, and don’t tell me you aren’t guilty of it—everyone and their grandmother is guilty of it. After hours of Instagram Reels and TikToks, we have that same sinking feeling as drinking on a Monday night. You may ask yourself: “did I really just do that?” before coming to terms with your lost hours. With the rise of technology and passing the time through endless scrolling, we often find ourselves needing excuses to get out of the house. This is where the third space comes in.

A third space is a place away from our traditional first two spaces, those being home and work/school. This is a place in which we can be present with our friends and acquaintances without the comforts and distractions of home but with new comforts and distractions of social interaction. It’s not news that humans are social creatures. Indeed, left alone on a deserted island and we may even start talking to volleyballs to keep us company. But by having a spot to catch up with friends and maybe do some schoolwork off campus, we revitalize ourselves with a necessary de-stressor. Antigonish has two clear favourite forms of third spaces: craft breweries and cafes.

Craft breweries often make great event spaces. Lively evenings with local musicians playing their hearts out always make for a great night out with friends. While I do love our own Inn, there is something a bit more quaint and rustic to a night out at Candid or Oak Manor, and playing trivia against the locals rather than just other students is always a treat. It is obvious that other students feel the same way given the number of events held by different societies at these breweries. Often the connection between the students and these breweries runs deeper than just enjoying their beer and a nice night out on the town. These breweries offer amazing job opportunities to students, and it’s hard to visit one without seeing a fellow student working the tap. The best part is that you don’t even have to drink when you go to these places if you don’t want to. You can simply enjoy the vibe, but just don’t be too surprised if one of your friends has had a little too much and needs to be walked home later that night.

Cafes are on the quieter side compared to breweries and provide great opportunities to work on assignments and fill up on caffeine. Places such as the Grindhouse and Tall and Small offer different brews that are great for a little afternoon pick-me-up. The sandwich selection at both places is only another bonus. I recently had just gone to Tall and Small with a group to discuss the game plan for a group assignment. It was a lovely relaxing atmosphere, and quiet enough to discuss the plan without any voices being drowned out.

If you need some time away from your phone and all the various apps designed to distract you, I highly recommend finding yourself a third space. I’d also recommend enjoying a local place and rewarding them with your patronage. As much as we all enjoy our campus’ Starbucks, it is important to support local when we can.

Beyond Business: Why Every Student Should Attend the Women in Business Conference

On March 8th, I attended the 10th annual Women in Business (WIB) Conference, an event dedicated to celebrating leadership, empowerment, and networking among women in various industries. As an English major, I wasn’t sure what to expect. However, I found the experience incredibly inspiring, engaging, and insightful. The theme of this year’s conference, “Leading a Legacy: A Decade of Empowerment,” reflected not only the impressive ten-year milestone of the WIB Conference but also the long-lasting impact of inspiring women from StFX returning to celebrate.

The weekend began with a kickoff event at Candid, where students had the chance to connect, hear from alumni, and listen to keynote speaker Kathleen Sheridan. The evening ended on a high-energy note, leaving everyone excited for the next day’s events. The following day was filled with learning opportunities, starting with two engaging workshops led by Ambrosia Caplice and Myrna L. Gillis, where attendees learned about their personal experiences, advice, and essential skills for professional and personal growth. In the afternoon, the Generations Panel provided an opportunity for students to hear from alumni and ask questions about their journeys—both the challenges they faced and the successes they achieved in their respective industries. To close out the weekend, the impressive Dr. Beth McCharles and Nikki Doucet spoke as the gala keynote speakers, sharing their experiences as powerful businesswomen navigating the typically male-dominated sports industry. Overall, it was a weekend filled with empowering and diverse perspectives. During the conference, I had the chance to speak with one of the WIB Conference Directors, Erica Cameron, who shared that this milestone event had been in the works for nearly a year. The whole WIB team’s dedication resulted in a remarkable turnout—over 45 alumni and more than 100 student delegates participated in the event.

From my perspective as an English major, I found the conference especially eye-opening. While the business world might not be my primary field of study, the themes of leadership, perseverance, and professional development are relevant and applicable to any career. Listening to women who have built successful careers in male-dominated industries gave me valuable insights into the resilience and adaptability required to thrive in any profession. Hearing their personal stories, lessons learned, and advice for the future was both motivating and reassuring. As Erica reaffirmed, “Although the conference is run by WIB, our key values are to inspire leadership, empowerment, and networking—applicable to anyone.” The conference was an experience to learn more about the business world but also an event that reinforced that no matter what career path one chooses, the ability to be a leader, form connections and take risks is essential. I left the conference feeling empowered, and now, I encourage anyone who, like me, is a woman (not) in business to step out of their comfort zone and attend events like the WIB conference—you never know what could happen.

Antigonish Recreation: An Escape from Campus Life

As winter’s final chills give way to the anticipation of spring, and exams quickly approaching, now is the perfect time to explore the range of recreational opportunities available in Antigonish.

Despite the wealth of options the town offers, many students and residents may be unaware of the local exercise opportunities at their disposal. These include equipment loan programs, scenic hiking trails, and must-see historic landmarks.

Antigonish County Recreation offers an extensive equipment loan program that breaks down the barriers of cost and accessibility. The initiative is intended to enhance opportunities for fun and healthy activities for individuals of all abilities, ensuring everyone has access to the resources needed to stay active and engaged. The program offers a variety of equipment, including ice skates and helmets, “community bags” stocked with skipping ropes, balls, scoops, pylons, and hula hoops, as well as bikes, scooters and helmets in various sizes. Once the warmer weather arrives, additional equipment such as stand-up paddleboards, and adaptive canoe equipment will also become available. For university students facing the pressures of the upcoming exam period, perhaps the most appealing options are the outdoor lawn games. The collection includes spike ball, bocce ball, washer toss, horseshoes, and bean bag toss – perfect for relieving stress and enjoying some fresh air between study sessions.

Antigonish and surrounding areas are also home to many beautiful hiking and biking trails. Just a 15-minute walk from campus is the Antigonish Landing trail, a 4-km round-trip hike along an estuary of Antigonish Harbour, complete with two elevated platforms offering unobstructed views of ospreys, eagles, and ducks. For those willing to venture a bit farther, Beaver Mountain Provincial Park, Brown’s Mountain, and Fairmont Ridge Hiking Trail are all excellent spots to immerse yourself in nature and explore some of the area’s most scenic landscapes.

If you find yourself drawn to historic landmarks, the Cape George Lighthouse is a must-see. Situated 1000 feet above St. George’s Bay, it offers a panoramic view that stretches to Prince Edward Island, and Cape Breton on clear days. The Arisaig Lighthouse, overlooking the Northumberland Strait, provides a similar appeal.

Whether you are seeking outdoor adventure, a peaceful retreat in nature, or a chance to explore the must-see landmarks within the community, Antigonish and its surroundings offer a wealth of opportunities to suit all interests. With so much to explore right at your doorstep, it's clear that Antigonish is a place where residents and visitors can enjoy both the beauty of nature and the vibrancy of community life. So, get out, explore, and take full advantage of everything Antigonish has to offer—because the best experiences are just one adventure away!

For more information on the Equipment Loan Program, contact Antigonish County Recreation by email at recreation@antigonishcounty.ca, call (902) 863-1141 or visit their website at: https://recreation.antigonishcounty.ca/equipment-loan-accessibility-loan-program/

Probe: Starbucks Whistleblower Reveals Increasingly Long Drink Orders Actually an Attempt to Trick Patrons into Summoning Ghargatuloth, Demon Prince of Tzeench into Reality.

We really should have seen this coming…..

In the wake of the enormous multi-headed demon currently wreaking havoc on campus, a whistleblower who will remain anonymous approached the Xaverian Weekly claiming to have information on its origins. 

Huddled by a window on the third floor of the library, struggling to maintain our balance as the tremors from the avian-headed Forger of Hells pummeling Mulroney building into oblivion with everyone inside shook the ground, she began to explain.

“So basically, we don’t make any coffee at Starbucks” she shouted over the noise. “The elaborate names of our drinks are actually spells, and when a customer riddles off each magic word in perfect succession, the drink is summoned from the great beyond to an area just out of his or her sight. We just grab it and hand it to them.” 

A small crack formed in the ceiling above us through which an ancient dust billowed, but for the sake of journalism I continued the interview. 

“Have you ever had the person working the counter ‘mishear your order?’ That just means your spell was weak and it failed to summon anything. Have you ever got the wrong order? Guess what, you must have mispronounced your Latin at the counter.”

“Eventually, the goal was to keep increasing the number of magic words required per order until one fateful student was skilled enough to cast the spell that summoned the Prince of a Thousand Faces, and it looks like that finally happened.”

At this point, the structural integrity of the library was failing, and chunks of concrete began to fall. Seeing as this was the case, we pushed over some terrified first years who looked to us for salvation but were ultimately in our way, and bolted for the doors. 

Regrouping, we dusted ourselves off in the atrium at the top of the science building, affording us a view of the colloquially named God of the Last Hunt just in time for him to sunder the library in two, destroying all life within. 

“I’m not sure how people never picked up on what was going on” our informant continued. “They are literally chanting Latin-esque words in quick succession to get their drink. Why else would the sizes be in Italian? We’re in Canada.” 

After writing down all she said I quickly wrapped up the interview and made my way to my car, which was luckily one of a few not crushed by flying debris. Unfortunately, however, I had forgotten that I’d spent my last $15 ordering a small water from Starbucks and wasn’t able to fill up on gas. I then got out of my car and ran to the safest place I could think of: the catacombs beneath St. Ninian’s Cathedral. Imagine my shock as I managed to barely escape them with my life after seeing what they beheld. Clothes tattered and mind fuzzied, I somehow was able to stumble my way to McDonald’s where for the price of a crisp high five and some pocket lint I procured an extra-large coffee, and was able to regain my senses.

As of now, Father Donald and Father Danny’s excommunication effort has seen minimal progress. Some on campus have suggested reforming the Sisters of St. Martha to reinforce our Chaplains, and there have even been murmurs of utilizing the nuclear option and calling Father Stan out of retirement to banish this Malignant Entity. However, critics argue that harnessing his spiritual power may result in the destruction of all known life, which could be seen as counterproductive. 

For updates on this situation, stay tuned in to the Xaverian Weekly.

The Curse of the Whale Bone

Every university has its share of weird superstitions, from rubbing John Harvard's feet, Penn State Ninny lion curse, to the University of Toronto's “King College Circle.” Yet somehow StFX has made things ten times weirder. Being located in a province with strong ties to the sea, whaling, and maritime history, students have often brought in a treasure trove of goods—sometimes for the worst.

Let me be your guide as we dive into a story as old as the ancient bricks of MacIssac Hall. Long before StFX stood as it does today, the shores of Nova Scotia were home to whalers who braved the restless Atlantic. One stormy night, as legend tells, a monstrous whale larger than any seen before washed up on the rocks near Antigonish, its body battered but its massive jawbone intact. The fishermen who found it dared not touch it, for the beast bore strange markings along its ribs as if carved by unseen hands. Among the trembles of his colleagues, one read aloud “BurMac4Evr.” The bone was taken to the university as a curiosity, a relic of the sea's power. But elders warned that the whale did not die naturally–that it had been cursed by the deep. Ever since its towering jawbone has stood on campus (except for that one incident, then later returned in 2017), a silent guardian of those who respect it and a harbinger of misfortune for those who do not.

Yet the tale doesn't stop here. Years later on the shores of Antigonish, a group of daring first year students, defiant of superstition laughed in the face of the infamous whalebone curse. On a crisp autumn night under the glow of the campus lamp posts, they linked arms and boldly marched through the towering jawbone, swearing that the legend was nothing but a myth. But as weeks passed their luck turned sour, failed exams, lost papers, and inexplicable misfortunes plagued them. One even swore that he was haunted by the ghostly moan of the ill-fated whale in his residence building.

Alas nobody believed him, not even his roommate. Another student pleaded to her CAs and even though they were obliged to listen they dismissed her nonsense and reported her to Res-Life. In an attempt to ease their worries, the students went to the Keating Centre to watch a hockey game. All was well until their classmates enthusiastically yelled what was called the “WHALEBONE CHANT.” Panicked and out of options the students flew out the doors and sought the wisdom of the oldest professor they could think of–Ed Carty. “Yes!” they exclaimed. “Surely he’ll know what to do.” He chuckled and said "Quaedam maledictiones non puniunt nisi ludibrio" (translated by more fortunate souls “Some curses don't punish until they are mocked”). If only they hadn't flunked his Latin midterm. “Curse you whalebone!” they said shaking their tiny first year fists. From that day forward students whisper the warning: walk through the whalebone and StFX may never let you leave.

Mark Carney Declares All Government Employees Must Delete Starbucks App From Their Phones

In the pursuit of economic austerity policies, Prime Minister Mark Carney declares that all government ministers must reduce their extraneous spending.

“Every penny counts, and if you think I shouldn’t talk to you before you had your coffee, just wait until you see me,” said the former Harvard hockey player. This comes after Carney cutting the Carbon Tax, which he has described in previous interviews as “divisive and unnecessary.”

This tax policy decision has blown over quite well with the majority of the Canadian citizens, but this most recent policy announcement has received some blow back from government employees. “This is, like, crazy,” said Bethany Smith, a low-level bureaucrat. “How else am I going to be able to skip the line in the morning? Does he expect me to wait like I’m, like, poor or something?”

Kyle Brown, Brittney’s jobless boyfriend who must accompany her to work so that their apartment’s drywall might remain intact, had this to say. “Like… uh… it blows for real, like for sure. Baby, can we go? I think it's weird you even replied to him when he talked to you. Give me your phone.”

This is but one one many people who have expressed concern. On an internet poll conducted by the Xaverian Weekly’s data analytics division, it was noticed that lower level Liberal Party bureaucrats accounted for 40% of the revenue garnered by Ottawa area Starbucks’, despite making up only 8% of the city’s youth population. Conversely, Conservative Party staffers tended to either have their live-in maids make it for them so that they could bring it to the office with them. The few NDP-land “castmembers” which responded/survived the election declared that they did not drink coffee, due to the beverage’s colonial history.

“It really makes you wonder how Carney will fare as a leader if he is reelected,” one artist-formerly-known-as-Twitter user commented. “If he’s willing to put the lower echelons of his own party under the knife like this, it makes you wonder how much he will support low-income Canadians.”

Leader of the NDP Jagmeet Singh had this to say regarding the announcement. “I’m just wondering how Mr. Carney thinks this will help the unionization efforts of Starbucks employees across the country. I mean, there’s not even a Minister of Labour to preemptively send them forced arbitration, while the NDP does nothing about the issue. I might actually have to advocate for the working-class, God forbid!”

The Xaverian reached out to Carney for comment, but a carrier-pigeon, which arrived two weeks after the original request, delivered a note which stated that the phonelines and electric-lights in Parliament were being removed as a cost saving measure.

BREAKING: Piper's Pub Statue Revealed to Be StFX President Andy Hakin During Brief but Iconic Scottish Modelling Career

ANTIGONISH, NS — A secret dossier obtained by The Xaverian Weekly shows that the towering bagpiper statue perched atop Piper’s Pub is none other than St.FX President Andy Hakin, captured during what’s now recognized as his “bloody successful” Scottish modeling career in the 80s.

“I always thought there was something oddly presidential about that statue,” said Piper’s bartender Sheila MacDonald, a longtime Piper’s bartender who insists she once heard the statue mutter, “Budget cuts are coming,” after the last call.“It’s like it’s saying, ‘Welcome to Piper’s, I just signed a memo.’”

Leaked photographs from the Kilt Life Quarterly archives confirm that a young Hakin graced multiple covers in the early 1990s under monikers like “The Brave Heartthrob,” and “Clad in Plaid.” One image shows Hakin sporting a majestic tartan, bagpipe in hand, eyes fixed on some distant horizon—presumably envisioning the glorious future of Nova Scotian higher education.

“Look at the statue’s face! That’s not just stoicism; it’s sheer administrative bravado,” commented local sculptor Hamish MacFadden. “He’s piping not just for Country Night, but for an entire institution,” MacFadden added, dabbing away a solitary, patriotic tear before giving a reverent salute.

When confronted with the images, President Hakin was walking through Coady Gardens, suspiciously decked out in full Highland regalia, and attempted to deny everything.“I’m just a normal, everyday professor type,” he said, clearing his throat and clutching his bagpipes like a kid caught sneaking cookies. “I don’t know how to pose… or pipe. That would be ridiculous.”

His denial quickly unraveled when a sudden gust of wind pried a magazine out of his satchel, revealing a glossy 1992 Bagpipe & Barrel Digest centerfold of Hakin in mid-twirl. Eyewitnesses claim he blushed and muttered under his breath, “Aye, the rumors are true.”

Moira MacMorran, an Antigonish tourism coordinator, practically glowed at the news: “This is the perfect brand synergy,” she said, come for the kilt, stay for the man!” she beamed, before humming what sounded suspiciously like Scotland the Brave.

Over at Piper’s, bar manager John MacDonald says they’re going all-in. “We’re launching ‘Hakin Heritage Night,’ featuring non-stop bagpipes, a new ‘Haggis Poutine Supreme,’ and a house cocktail called The Academic Advisor,” he explained, vigorously stirring a questionable liquid into a coffee mug. “It’s neat Scotch, but in a mug—so you can pretend you’re in a very serious meeting about campus wifi.”

As the shockwaves ripple through town, folks wonder: Does the statue stay? Should it go? Students like Fiona MacDonald vehemently oppose its removal. “We cannot remove the statue,” insisted Fiona, a first-year student who claims the sight of the stoic bagpiper is the only thing that motivates her to attend morning lectures. “It’s like a glorious stone sentinel smizing in a woolen skirt.” [here, smizing refers to smiling with your eyes]

Opponents argue that if it is indeed President Hakin, maybe the man should pony up for statue maintenance. But for now, the bagpiper remains perched atop Piper’s Pub, eyeing passersby as though reminding them that life’s too short to park without a price-gouged parking pass. 

If there’s one thing Antigonish has learned from this twist, it’s that behind every stern university email is a story of bagpipe pageantry. You simply cannot keep a determined Scot from bagpiping his way to glory, be it in a university President’s office or perched triumphantly on top of Piper’s Pub.

Town of Antigonish Reveals Clock Tower in Town Hall Actually Contains an Experimental and Volatile Anti-Air Defense System

In a press conference surrounding the economic impacts of the Trump tariffs, mayor Sean Cameron has revealed important details surrounding the implementation of the system.

“All of us on the Town Council thought it was very important for one of the bastions of Nova Scotian industry to have adequate defense capabilities during this very uncertain time,” Cameron said. “We have been in contact with Rheinmetall for quite some time, and we hope to continue this valuable working relationship in the future,” he continued.

Rheinmetall is one of Europe’s leading weapons manufacturers and is based out of Germany. No word was given regarding how Germany’s increased defense budget will affect the availability of missiles and rockets in Antigonish. Cameron went on to add that he welcomed dialogue between the United States and the town, so long as “the dialogue starts and ends with incredible acts of copious violence.”

Deputy Mayor Diane Roberts added a few comments at the end of the conference. “We can’t let those treacherous American apes take our land. It is time to show them and the world exactly what kind of damage our town can do to those that step to us. We’re King Von’s true disciples, no cap.”

Reactions from the townspeople have been mixed. Most have been in favour of the defense capabilities, but some wish the town would go one step further. “Preemptive strike is the way to go, for sure,” said one StFX philosophy professor. “It’s what Aristotle would do, and we really need to throw the table at them.” He began to say something else, but was chased away by wild coyotes before he could begin. One StFX student thinks the town should take the opposite approach. “Why don’t we all just chill out and smoke a little hash? I found a new couch to put beside my front porch, we could do it there.”

Another important figure also has thoughts on the matter. StFX President Andy Hakin has responded to the press-conference by stating that he would not have allocated so much of StFX’s monetary resources to the university’s own defense budget. “This seems like kind of a blindside,” Hakin stated. “We had always agreed there would be parity between the town’s and university’s defense spending, so now the university will need to increase its own spending so as to not break the agreement.” Hakin declared that funds formerly dedicated to stocking Kevin’s Corner, the university food-kitchen, would need to be reallocated. “Why do we even have a food-kitchen? Doesn’t that just encourage the poors to remain poor?” he said, wringing his hands with maniacal glee. Hakin refused to comment on Cameron’s suggestion that Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope (SCT) found in the StFX Observatory be repurposed as a space-laser.

Breaking: Fanfiction Featuring Former Prime Minister Brian Mulroney and Quote: “Best Friends” Ronald Reagan and Margaret Thatcher Found Among Mulroney’s Personal Effects

Over the last year, a team made up of faculty from StFX’s little known archeology department has been meticulously combing through new evidence found after a minor windstorm knocked out the power for the entirety of northern Nova Scotia. This was accompanied by a slight tremor, and due to the “pragmatic” design philosophy of Mulroney building, caused several load bearing walls to collapse. Luckily for those interested in Canadian political history, albeit less so for the 48 students and staff crushed to death by the falling debris, a smaller wall on the 5th floor also collapsed, revealing a mysterious crypt, previously uncaptured by the inquisitive eyes of the public.

After weeks of excavating only revealed such trivialities as the former Prime Minister’s detailed list of investments in Mexican auto manufacturing and a full-sized poster of Quebec with a large “X” drawn over it, archeologists began to lose hope for any kind of meaningful discovery.

However, in their hour of greatest need, one plucky professor finally stumbled upon something of significance, a notebook labelled “Brian’s Diary (DON’T TOUCH!!!)” The diary appeared to contain plausibly true stories in which Ronald Reagan, Margaret Thatcher, and Brian Mulroney were the protagonists.

“Everyone said we were like three peas in a pod” was the opening line, read to us by Dr. Doug Diggemup, the professor who located the notebook.

Passages included adventures both whimsical and fantastic, but of which some may be criticized for what are colloquially known as “mary-sueisms.” A good many references to the strength of the three world leaders’ friendship were made across the diary. One excerpt read that the trio were:

“(L)ike Holmes and Watson and Lestrade.”

Literature experts from StFX’s English department have determined from context that Mulroney was referring to himself as Lestrade.

An excerpt describing the three of them working together at the United Nations read:

“We were a classic trio, like Bonnie and Clyde and Doug, and Doug was maybe even more important than Bonnie because he was the one taking all the pictures.”

Interestingly, several passages in the notebook look as if to be describing instances of slights Mulroney feels to have suffered at the hands of the other two, but what appears to be residue from dried tears renders these pages illegible. The words “birthday” and “forgot” are solely identifiable, but purely because of their frequency of use.

The implications of this notebook on Canadian political history may be dubious, but Dr. Diggemup is certain that within these pages lie the key to finally making Quebec “take the hint” and go away.

Revenge of the Pencil Pushers: In Response to Increasing Blowback Against Exorbitant Salaries, Anonymous StFX Administrators Share Thoughts: Maybe the students are the bad guys?

After the release of an article published by the Xaverian Weekly that included the quote,

“StFX administrators’ salaries have risen by 108 percent since 2012, while faculty compensation has gone up by 16.5 percent over the same period, even though more students are enrolling,”

and various others, pointing out the rapidly growing salaries of those who set the salaries at StFX. A number of administrators who felt as if their good names were being tarnished reached out to give statements justifying their yearly profit of over double what the average Canadian makes.

“I just want to say right out the gate, some of the statistics given in the sunshine list article were taken very out of context,” noted a 34-year-old failed professor turned middle manager earning a yearly salary of $165,000.

“For example, the writer notes that that administrators’ salaries have increased 108% since 2012, but she fails to consider that the number of emails we have to send every day has increased by 110%, from 10 to 21. And that’s only on average. It makes sense that if our total amount of work doubles, so should our compensation.”

Another administrator whose honour was offended had this to say:

“Quite simply, the reason we demand these salaries is because we are uniquely qualified. I didn’t waste the best years of my life getting a Ph.D. in vocally imitating whale calls to have to sully myself with a job that provides value to this country. I’m only taking what I deserve. And by the way, a construction worker could never send 20-25 emails a day like I do. That’s why I make twice his salary.”

When asked about the rising costs to students attending StFX, and the fact that the university is already strapped for cash, another administrator countered with this:

“Honestly I wish those little twerps would pay more. And quite frankly, this school would be better off without any students at all. Everyone knows the point of this institution is to employ people to send emails. We need to focus on streamlining the business model and only keeping what’s most valuable. I would bet my entire $210,000 salary that not one student could look at one of my perfectly crafted emails and say that I didn’t deserve so much of their hard-earned money.”

The Xaverian Weekly was emailed exactly 29 individual statements, but with very little variation from those published above.

Just a day before this article was meant to be published, we received correspondence from an unlikely source.

Dr. Diggumup, a non-tenured assistant professor working with the StFX archeology department offered a statement in defense of administration salaries.

“My name is Dr. Diggemup, and many of you Xaverian Weekly readers may not know me. You could say I’m a bit underground. For many years, I’ve moonlighted as Professor Putemdown, part-time pet euthanizer for hire. If you don’t know me, you might know my cousin, Professor Puteminpound, who is a dog catcher. Euthanizing beloved family pets was never my passion, and the children’s tears that accompany doing a good job but having read the wrong address on the email (I have dyslexia) are always hard. I only took up this gig to cover rent, because my assistant professor salary doesn’t cut it.”

“That being said, it warms my heart to know that those doing the most important jobs don’t have to struggle like I do. I’m glad that the heroes on the front lines of Microsoft Outlook will never have to look into a child’s eyes and explain that their beloved Fido didn’t do anything wrong, he just had the misfortune of living at a house number that looked (EXACTLY!!!) like the one I needed to go to. At the end of the day, it gives me comfort.”

We deliberated whether to add his testimony to this article or not, but the consensus among XW staff was that it was too powerful not to share.

Bombshell: Copy of Xaverian Weekly Open to Mark Mercer Article Spotted in the Background of Andy Hakin’s Presidential Portrait

What was originally an interesting piece of scandalous of gossip has now been corroborated with witness testimony.

One lazy evening over reading week a student who wishes to remain anonymous was browsing St.FX’s website, innocently looking for pictures of Dr. Szlachta to frame and put on his wall, when he found something that shook him to his very core. While perusing faculty profiles, a previously overlooked detail in Dr. Hakin’s profile picture caught his eye.

This is our interview with him.

“I thought I saw the familiar colour scheme of the Xaverian Weekly on his desk in the background” he explained wearily. “‘A supporter of student journalism!’ I exclaimed. Little did I know just how much what I found would reveal about our revered President.”

“Looking carefully, I managed to make out the words ‘facts’ and ‘feelings’ on the paper. Already I felt sick to my stomach. I would know that title anywhere. It haunts my every waking moment, although sleep offers no respite. It was the Mark Mercer article, but I shudder even saying his name.”

“Immediately, I called student services, something had to be done, but all I received over the line were inane platitudes. When I checked the website later that night, the picture was gone, like it was never there at all.”

“I didn’t know what to do. I contacted local media, but no one would believe me. I tried crying out from the street corners, but the management at Starbucks told me to stop loitering because I was making their customers feel uncomfortable. I was out of options and out of ideas. That led me to you.”

Quite frankly, we at the Xaverian Weekly were just as appalled as our unnamed hero was, so we got in touch with Dr. Hakin ourselves to set the record straight.

His statement was transcribed to the best of our ability below.

“Th' idea that ah wid ever read sic horrendous material is preposterous, 'n' th' implication that ah support free speech is equally sae, I don’t keek lik' a nazi, dae ah?”

We have determined that his position is unknowable.

Green Blinds the Eyes: A Parking Lot Story

Xaverians, start your engines 

After years of planning, the Victor and Mona Dahdaleh Institute for Innovation in Health was set to break ground in the upcoming weeks. However, in a shocking twist StFX administrators have changed plans. In which they reveal the new direction the university aims to take. Below is the press statement released: 

“After reflection, we realized that a university does not need more learning spaces, grass, or walkable areas, instead it needs more places to park cars. We are calling this initiative ‘Less Grass, More Gas’ and there is nowhere better to start than paving over one of our few remaining fields! That is why we are happy to announce, that the Victor and Mona Dahdaleh Institute for Innovation in Health is being redesigned and renamed to ‘Parking Lot P20 Institute for Innovation in Parking!’” 

In fine print below the article, a line read “this is totally not because of budget cuts.” However, financial experts in Antigonish are not buying it for a second. Some are pointing out that the $15 million dollar building, is now only going to cost an estimated $250,000. One scholar, who asked to remain anonymous, stated “The only greenery that StFX cares about is money. They’re pocketing over $14 million; I wouldn’t be surprised if they find a way to raise parking pass prices even with more supply.” Somehow breaking all economic laws of supply and demand. 

A 6th year, River Lily, has been vocal in opposition to the construction of the parking lot. Quote: “I have been here a long time, and never once thought campus needed more parking, but instead more greenery. This is almost as bad as the town bike lane beside Coady.” And the majority of students seem to be on her side, though some are less environmentally concerned, stating “another parking lot is just another opportunity for me to get a parking ticket.”  

Some students however are in favour of another parking lot with student Ash Fault stating: “I admire the university’s ability to try something new. I came to StFX because of how many parking lots they already had (19), and the addition of another one makes me even happier to call this place home!” Though their inclination to parking lots is not surprising, after he founded the parking lot club back in 2019, with the mission statement: ‘c’mon one more!’  

Overlooking the project is Otto Mabile, who is frequently referred to as ‘the Mozart of asphalt.’ He is known for the designing of the West Edmonton Mall parking lot, said to be the biggest in the world. He pays extra attention to the ratio of yellow to white lines, making him quite the eccentric parking lot designer. We reached out to Mabile to get the inside scoop of this new project: 

“I plan to take inspiration from how empty and soulless Mulroney’s architectural design is and apply it to the parking lot. I really admire the university’s pursuit of a less-walkable campus, and I think a large parking lot will help achieve that goal. I think that a drive-thru style classroom is the next big idea I am going to pitch, but we will have to wait and see.” 

So, there you have it, Xaverians, a “Less Grass, More Gas” era has come to StFX. Do you welcome the asphalt, or are you more keen on the green?  

Second Annual Pucks for Purpose Men’s Game: A Winning Night for Hockey and Charity

With a packed crowd, the Pucks for Purpose Men’s Game on Friday night was electric. Full of Business and Art-Science students alike, alumni, and the StFX community, everyone was excited to support our players and the charities. It was fitting for the second annual Pucks for Purpose Men’s Game. As we walked to the Keating Center, a line wrapped around the side of the building, and the arena filled up fast. But before the game could start, there were many important announcements to share.

First, the big one: last year, Pucks for Purpose raised over $55,000. This year, with the addition of a women’s game and even more publicity, they have exceeded their goal of doubling the money raised. With $130,000 for the Canadian Cancer Society and motionball for Special Olympics, the Pucks for Purpose Classic was a complete success. Now, with many of the executive team members who created this event graduating, it was an even sweeter victory to see their creation be such a success.

As a fan, both events, the women's and men’s games, are exciting to watch. Why? Because even during the periods, there are events and prizes to be won. The buzzer will go, and challenges like sliding an Oreo into your mouth without using your hands, or guessing which briefcase has the money, are only a couple of the ways fans are involved. And of course, one could not forget the big Shoot-to-Win a Subaru! With a seemingly impossible task, I still held my breath as the puck slid toward the net. Even though it was not a win, seeing the Subaru drive on the ice was cool. It is no wonder that the game was sold out with the amount of money that was to be won! Or the Shoot-to-Win competition hosted by the Business school, which led to $300 being won! The fun never stopped. One section in the stands even won hot dogs. No matter what, the event was fun both on and off the ice.

But on the ice, the game was thrilling. Business took the lead, but Art-Sci did not give up. With amazing saves from Brandon Cole and incredible goals from Nate Supryka, Art-Sci was a definite underdog. However, Business stood strong and took home the win, 7-3. Both teams raised a large amount of money themselves: Business with over $29,083 and Art-Sci with over $27,057. The game is the base of the event, and every ticket purchased to watch went toward that grand total. I will say, as a biased Art-Sci student, that Art-Sci filled up most of the crowd, but it was the combined effort of the StFX community that showed up and made the game what it was.

As the next generation of Pucks for Purpose carries on the tradition, I am excited to see what we can raise next year. StFX shows up for charity, for hockey, and for those who need help. Pucks for Purpose was a success that I cannot wait to see again. 

Interview with Graduating Athletic Therapist Kylie Barton

The end of the school year is a time for reflection, a chance for students to look back upon the moments that defined their university experience. For fourth-year students, this is particularly true as they consider how their time at StFX has shaped them and what lies ahead. With many athletic seasons coming to a close around this time, players, coaches and support staff have a similar opportunity to reflect on the highs and lows of the year.

Kylie Barton, a fourth-year Honours Human Kinetics student, has been an athletic therapist for the women’s and men’s hockey teams over the past two years. As she prepares to graduate, she has shared her experiences working with the X-Men this year, the challenges of the role, and what she will take with her from her time on the bench.

“It was a season full of ups and downs,” she explained. “We had a rocky start, especially facing teams like UNB and Moncton.” With ten new players on the roster, the team faced an adjustment period, but as the season progressed, everything started to fall into place. “Once we found our rhythm, we had a great run.” Injuries were another challenge, but the team’s commitment to recovery made a significant difference. “The guys were really committed to their rehab and honest about what they were feeling,” Barton shared. “Even if someone had a tough injury, they still showed up to the rink. It’s a close-knit team, and they really lift each other up.”

The strong team dynamic extended to Barton herself. As one of the only women travelling with the team, she acknowledged the potential difficulties of finding her place but expressed appreciation for the support she received. “It can be tough being the only girl on a weekend road trip, but the guys always made sure I felt comfortable and looked out for me.” Some of her favourite memories with the team have been during long bus rides and high-pressure playoff games. “After games in PEI, we always played Mafia on the bus, that’s something I’ll never forget.” Last year’s marathon playoff game was another standout moment. “Four overtimes. I was running around trying to help everyone. The coach even had me go on the ice to stall for time. And we won! It was unreal.”

With graduation approaching, she shared how the reality of leaving has begun to set in. “I’m sad. Like, really sad,” she admitted. “This has been such a great team to work with, and I didn’t want it to end.” Her role as an athletic therapist became a defining part of her university experience. “It’s been huge. You do have to sacrifice a bit of your social life, but it’s worth it.”

When asked to give advice to the next person stepping into her role, she said to make the most of it. “Enjoy it. It goes by so fast. One day you’re working your last game, and suddenly you’re wondering what’s next.” Even on the long days at the rink, she encourages them to soak it all in. “There’s nothing else like it.” As she moves on to her next chapter in Hamilton to study osteopathy, she will bring with her the relationships, lessons, and memories that made her time at StFX and with the X-Men so special.

First-Ever Pucks for Purpose Women's Game: Arts-Sci Claims Victory Over Business

With the success of the inaugural Pucks for Purpose game, raising $55,000 for the Canadian Cancer Society and Motionball for Special Olympics, it is no surprise that the organizers have expanded their efforts this year. The first-ever women’s game was held on March 19th at 7 pm, where the Arts-Science team, led by Kylie Barton, faced off against the Business team, captained by Lindsay Gorman. After Business’ blowout victory last year, anticipation was high for both the men's and women’s matchups to see if Arts-Sci could reclaim the trophy.

The game started off slow, with neither team scoring in the first period. However, early in the second, Arts-Sci broke the deadlock, quickly following up with another goal that shifted the momentum in their favour. Despite the setback, Business remained determined and fought hard, getting on the scoreboard in the third period. But Arts-Sci maintained control, closing out the game with a goal in the last few minutes of play, securing a decisive 5- 1 victory.

There was plenty of intermission entertainment to keep the crowd engaged, including a shoot-to-win contest that gave one lucky fan a chance to win a Seadoo, as well as a relay race featuring two teams in inflatable cow costumes. Adding to the excitement, the Stanley Cup was on display for fans to see up close and take pictures with. Free Cool Ranch Doritos and a well-stocked bar added to the night’s success, making it a great way for students to spend their Wednesday evening.

Pucks for Purpose is so successful because it combines all the things StFX students love: hockey, having fun and giving back to the community. Knowing that taking a study break to watch the game contributes to meaningful causes like cancer research and motionball makes the time spent all the more rewarding. Pucks for Purpose is quickly becoming a beloved tradition at StFX, one that is sure to continue for years to come.