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By Janelle Pitre, Contributor

First-year UPEI students partici- pating in New Student Orientation this past week were given every possible tip and tidbit to help them prepare for their upcoming school year. But even the most seasoned UPEI students not prepared for the

scene on Tuesday, September sth, as they watched first-year students shatter UPEI’s Shinerama fundraising record in the streets of Charlottetown by raising over $23,000 in less than eight hours in support of Cystic Fibrosis research.

Shinerama is Canada’s largest post-secondary fundraiser, with participation from over 35,000 stu- dents from over 65 universities, colleges, and technical institutions across the country. Shiners partici-

CAMPUS

UPET shatters record on Shine Day

pate in a variety of activities dur- ing the day and during secondary fundraisers, all trying to raise as much money as possible for Cystic Fibrosis research.

Cystic Fibrosis is the most com- mon fatal inherited disease affect- ing young Canadians, and primari- ly affects the respiratory and diges- tive systems. One in every 3600 babies born in Canada will be diagnosed with the disease, of which there is no known cure.

Shine Day at UPEI took place after an exciting and inspiring Shine Day kick-off event held in The Wave, where students learned more about Cystic Fibrosis and heard speeches from Premier Robert Ghiz, UPEI President Wade MacLauchlan, and Shari Robertson, whose son Luke has Cystic Fibrosis.

Shortly after the kick-off, over

200 students, raising no less than $100 each on Tuesday alone, par- ticipated in a variety of activities across the city, ranging from car washes and giving out free hugs to shining shoes and competing in a now infamous “boxer run” in front of the Confederation Centre of the Arts Box Office. Many students merely asked people walking on the streets or idling in their cars if they had any change to spare, and nearly all Islanders approached happily obliged.

UPEI Shinerama Coordinator William MacDonald was beside himself with joy about the results of this year’s Shine Day. “I’ve never seen anybody with more spirit and enthusiasm than the shiners this year.

Their strong will and hard work was truly inspiring. I would like to thank every one of them from the

When students start back at UPEI pn Sept. 5 they will be able to take advantage of Student Advocacy and Support Services (SASS), a new outreach centre in the Department of Student Services. “The new centre is a fabulous addition to UPEI’s services for stu- dents. SASS is a place where stu- dent outreach is the primary focus.

New Student Advocacy and Support services (SASS) Centre Opens

It will make a difference to stu- dents,” says Vianne Timmons, Vice-President of Academic Development.

SASS provides help and. informa- tion on everything from scholar- ships, awards, and financial aid to services for international students. The centre also works to ensure that all students have equitable

available by calling 566-0488. |

opportunities, supports, and resources on campus, regardless of] gender, socio-economic back- ground, race/ethnic or cultural group, sexuality, religion, age or ability.

More information on SASS is

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Oct. 12, 2007

bottom of my heart!” Of the gen- erosity of Islanders on Tuesday, MacDonald said that he was impressed and appreciative of their gracious support towards the cam- paign, and that Cystic Fibrosis patients from across the Island and the country will be thrilled to know that they are now over $23,000 closer to finding a cure for the disease that affects every aspect of their lives and the lives of their loved ones.

If students, faculty, staff, or mem- bers of the community would like to donate to UPEI’s Shinerama campaign, they are invited to do so in person at the UPEI Student Union office, or online at www.shinerama.ca. Those interest- ed in volunteering for Shinerama or who need further information © can contact William MacDonald at shinerama@upeisu.com.

Colby O’Donnell spreads bub- — bles and shines sprit.

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