The Cord WeeklyThe tie that binds since 1926 LOVE AT FIRST CLICK < LOVESTRUCK Is oniine dating a worthwhile pursuit for Student Life gets all romantic for
Laurier ... students? PAGES 14-15 Valentine's Day ... PAGES 16-17
Volume 48 Issue 22 WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 13,2008 www.cordweekly.com Election disaster
FILE PHOTO • SYDNEY HELLAND JOE TURCOTTE PAUL ALVIZ
BAD PUN - Ross Fraser (centre) and Colin LeFevre (right) remain in the race for WLUSU presidency.
Brian Punambolam SYDNEY HELLAND NOT DONE YET - Chief Returning Officer Craig Stover announces the removed from race WLUSU Board of Directors' decision to hold a re-election for president. Re-election to be A surplus of campaign-related fines has led to the disqualification of presidential candidate Brian Punambolam, current VP: Student Activities held February 28 Remaining presidential hopefuls will enter re- LAURA CARLSON a decision to overturn an appeal comments during the campaign NEWS EDITOR filed by Punambolam regarding process, $30 for using a WLUSU election following Punambolam leaving the race his disqualification. database to send out e-mails pro- After accumulating $95 worth of "[lt was] very difficult. It was a moting him as a candidate and campaign related fines, $20 over hard decision," explained Allison, $15 for a member of his team for LAURA CARLSON no policy," said Champagne. the permitted amount, presiden- president of WLUSU, who was on campaigning in the Terrace. NEWS EDITOR The decision to hold a run-off elec- tial hopeful Brian Punambolam the committee that decided to Punambolam feels that he tion met mixed reviews from the re- has been officially disqualified disqualify Punambolam. should not have been fined for A decision by the Wilfrid Laurier maining candidates. from the race for Wilfrid Lau- Punambolam accumulated his slander or members of his cam- University Students' Union (WLUSU) "I was glad, that's what I was kind rier University Students' Union fines for various reasons, includ- paign team using the e-mail lists Board of Directors (BOD) ruled in of hoping for just in terms of making (WLUSU) president. ing: $50 for slander during the to send to students, because of favour of a re-election to determine sure that the students got their voice," The decision to fine him out of Open Forum, in which a mem- "vagueness" in the WLUSU elec- which of the two remaining candi- said Fraser. the election came at 8:30 a.m. yes- ber of his campaign team ac- tion policies, though after seeking dates will be the next WLUSU presi- "But at the same time, I under- terday morning from the Appel- cused presidential hopeful Colin legal counsel he has decided not dent, following Brian Punambolam's stand the other side's opposition to late Committee, after they made LeFevre's team of making racist to seek any further action. disqualification yesterday morning. it, but I'm glad the Board made the "It's disappointing," said Pu- "The Board decided to hold a run- decision," he added. nambolam. "I'm not going to off ballot between Colin [LeFevre] Having been vocal about not want- WLUSU ELECTION EMERGENCY complain about the process, it's and Ross [Fraser] to take place, the ing the Union to stage a re-election, done," he added. tentative date, barring any major LeFevre was extremely disappointed An emergency BOD Meeting For Board of Directors and Punambolam received his no- problems, Thursday the 28 [of Febru- with the outcome, which is why he was held last night. Board of Governers results, tice of disqualification verbally ary]," said Jon Champagne, current decided to resign from his current SEE MEETING, SEE BOARD, from elections Chief Returning chair of the BOD. position as a director. PAGE 3 PAGE 2 Officer (CRO) Craig Stover and The deliberation of the Board was LeFevre's role as both a director WLUSU president Dan Allison on made difficult due to the fact that and candidate resulted in him de- For results from the Want to know The Cord's Thursday afternoon, half an hour WLUSU has no official election poli- claring a conflict of interest, which referendum, opinion on this whole mess? before the polls closed. cy regarding what to do in a situation removed him from any discussions SEE REFERENDUM, SEE ELECTION, such as this one. on the board level. PAGE 3 PAGE 20 "I've only been Chair for a few
- - SEE PUN, PAGE 6 weeks ... I don't know why there was SEE RE-ELECTION, PAGE 4 2News WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 13,2008 ■ THE CORD WEEKLY
The Cord Weekly
- Vie tie thatbinds since 1926 ~
phone: (519) 884-1970 ext. 3564 fax:(519)883-0873 email: Directors [email protected] Board of The Cord Weekly 75 UniversityAvenue West Waterloo, Ontario N2L 3C5 WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 13, 2008 VOLUME 48 ISSUE 21 positions announced Next Issue: February 27
QUOTE OF THE WEEK "I have a huge thing about balls going Fifteen positions within the WLUSU Board of Directors have been filled with 2008's total vote count towards my head."
- Graphics Editor Julie Marion on herregular Monday night activities.
JEREMY TREMBLAY ceived an e-mail with the official WORD OF THE WEEK OPINION EDITOR results from Stover, it was noted Deadline - the timeby whichsomething mustbe finished or submitted, as in something not met TheCord thisweek thatPreston was the sixteenth can- in order tohave the mostup to date information. While presidential candidates didate, 38 votes behind Mike Ober- CONTRIBUTORS learned they had to return to the le, the actual fifteenth candidate. Len Ball Madhavi Ganju Greg Sacks campaign trail, candidates for the Calls made to Stover and Presi- Chris Baiuschafc Heather Gies YousufSajjad Priyam Bhargava Daniel Joseph MaraSilvestri Michelle Caldaroni Amelia Lockhart Geetha "Ihurairajah Wilfrid Laurier University Stu- dent Dan Allison around 2 am Alaric Dennis Stephanie McEnery Sarah Topple Luke Dotto JamieNetigebauer Jordan Van Hom dents' Union (WLUSU) Board of when the confusion was noted Klmberly Elworthy Nathan Pascoe Nicole Wray Yusuf Faqiri Shagun Randhawa Directors (BOD) and candidates were not returned by press time. for Laurier's Board of Governors When Preston was contacted WLUSF STAFF (BOG) learned the results of last regarding the announcement, it at had heard of the Copy Editing Manager Caitlin Henderson Thursday's election in Wilf's was the first he Copy Editors Ariel Kroon 10:30 pm last incident. Meredith Barret about night. Marissa Newfeld Emily Slofstra A small crowd ofcandidates and Although acclaimed to the Heather Olaveson Kendra Howard Miriam Cunningham their supporters were present to Senate, current Director Paul La- Gina Macdonald IT Manager Bryan Willey see Chief Returning Officer Craig anemets learned his time in the Distribution Manager Nicole Laouataris Stover deliver results of the boardroom not Production Assistant Christine Parent partial would be extend-
2008 election - five days later than ed, as he had received only 354 originally expected. votes. WLUSP ADMINISTRATION In therace for seats on the Board Laanemets described his disap- President Keren Gottfried VP: Advertising Angela Foster of Directors, Laura Sedgwick re- pointment with the situation and VP: Brantford Dan Schell ceived the most votes of all candi- outlined that he felt he had run a Chair of the Board Colin LeFevre SYDNEY HELLAND Vice Chair Rafiq Andani 820. dates, picking up strong campaign. - Board of Directors Ryan Clubb RELIEF With 544 votes, Griffin Carpenter narrowly made this year's Rachel Crawford Sedgwick was followed by re- Due to the counting of the bal- Board of Directors. See below for the complete list of vote numbers. turning director Jon Champagne, lots being delayed multiple times, ADVERTISING who picked up 750 votes. Cham- numerous candidates present pagne was also elected the sole voiced their displeasure in how AJJ advertising inquiriesshould be directed to to VP: Advertising Angela Foster at open seat on the WLU Board of they were left without knowledge 884-0710, ext. 3560 [email protected] Governors with 42.3 percent ofthe of either the results or even when votes. the results would be made public. COLOPHON "Right now, I'm very run down. "The thing that disappointed
The Cord Weekly is the official student newspaper of I'm exhausted and I'm happy," me the most is the way that candi- the Wilfrid Laurier University community. stated Champagne. dates were held in the dark," said
Started in 1926 as the College Cord, The Cord Weekly is an It was also announced that successful BOD candidate Asif editorially independent newspaper published by Wilfrid Laurier University Student Publications, Waterloo, a 72.4% of votes cast approved of ac- Bacchus. corporation without share capital. WLUSP is governed by its board of directors. claiming Saad Aslam, Clark Cha- "It was excruciating," said An- mi, Dan Komesch, Janice Lee and drew Fryer of waiting. "I had a wIuJJTS Paul Laanemets to the Senate. bunch of midterms I had a hard flwraiii publications During the event, Kory Preston, time studying for." Opinionsexpressed within The Cordare thoseof theauthor and a current director seeking reelec- "All I can say is I'll continue to do notnecessarily reflect those of the Editorial Board, The Cord, WLUSP, WLU or CanWeb Printing Inc. tion, was named as the final direc- serve the students that elected All content appearing in Vie Cord bears the copyright expressly tor for next BOD. said of their creator(s) and may not be used without written year's me," returning director Cham- consent. However, when The Cord re- pagne. "And I'm excited to do so." The Cord is created using Macintosh computers running OS X.2 using Adobe Creative Suite 2 (InDesign, Photoshop, Acrobat, Distiller and Illustrator). Canon Rebel XT 8.0 megapixel digital cameras are used forprincipal photography.
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The Cord willkeep faith with its readers by presenting news and expressions of opinions comprehensively, accurately and fairly.
The Cord believes in a balanced and impartial presentation of all relevant facts in a news report, and of all substantial opinions in a matter ofcontroversy.
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The only limits of any newspaper are those of the world around it, and so The Cord willattempt to cover its world with a special focus on Wilfrid Laurier University, and the community of Kitchener-Waterloo, and with a special ear to the concerns of the students of Wilfrid Laurier University. Ultimately, The Cord will be bound by neither philosophy, nor geography in its mandate.
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VOCAL CORD "How do you feel about Referendum passes in Brian Punambolam being disqualified from the election?" overwhelming majority
Despite support, contentious issues still surround questions posed try and merge with grad students," he said. "What if they don't want that?" DAN POLISCHUK 'no' campaign." except that it said, 'Do you want to In regards to the Brantford- NEWS EDITOR . "It's all about student inter- replace... these fees?'" specific question, 83.5 per cent est. I can't exactly report on what "When the question was pre- voted to implement a new $15.00
With no official campaign devoted students are thinking - yes or no," sented on the ballot, it said, "Do per term fee that will support the the now-de- of facil- "I thought it wasn't really fair.... They to challenging this year's referen- answered Park, when asked if you want to replace construction a new dining shouldn't have been that harsh on dum questions, the three ques- enough time was allotted for a no funct ... fees?" he said. ity. It is scheduled to be applicable With the addition of the word full-time and him." tions posed to student voters in campaign to be developed. for all part-time stu- last Thursday's election were sup- Asif Bacchus, who was voted in "defunct" in the wording, the in- dents until September 1, 2018. Board felt that -AnkurAgarwal ported in great numbers. as a member for next year's coming Director it was a backhanded of Third-year Business Whether the results, such as the of Directors (BOD), did not share "very way saying Ballot question 74.5 per cent in favour of institut- the same perspective. 'vote yes" ing a new Undergraduate Faculty Having past experience on the "My big problem with it is the results Student Association Fee, are truly BOD, Bacchus explained how, un- Board approved one version. What representative remains to be a der previous policy, any referen- gives anyone the right, after that subject of debate. dum question had to be approved point, especially somebody subor- Removal of the statement Chief Returning Officer Craig by the BOD at least 30 days in dinate to the Board, to reword the "undergraduate" from the Stover conveyed how "happy" he advance. He went further in stat- question?" he asked. "To have the Letters Patent and By-Laws of was with how the procedure went. ing that no such policy currently body that's supposed to reflect the the Wilfrid Laurier While recognizing the fact that exists. opinion [of the students] give an University Students' Union there was not an official "no" cam- "I think it was a legitimate over- opinion is not correct." 75.5% YES paign to lobby against the approval sight. That wouldn't have hap- Bacchus was also steadfast in "The people that did vote for him of the questions, Stover was quick pened if they had stuck with our his belief that the 75.5 per cent in Undergraduate Faculty Student should have a say now." to say that, "There was always an original policies," said Bacchus, favour ofremoving the word "un- Association Fee of $15.00 opportunityfor a 'no' campaign." explaining why no opposition dergraduate" from the Letters Pat- 74.5% YES of has - Daniel Fattore Matt Park, recently installed as groups could be organized. ent and By-Laws WLUSU First-year Political Science a WLUSU staff member after his Also up for debate with Bac- put an unfair onus on the incom- Acclaimed positions of resignation from the Board, also chus is the fact that "the board ing Board to get graduate students Senate were accepted conveyed his belief that "students approved a version almost identi- under their umbrella. 72.4% YES had the opportunity to request a cal to the one that was presented, "We now have an obligation to Emergency board meeting for election The WLUSU Board of Directors held deliberations last night to discuss the 2008 election results
"He should have been disqualified." DAVE SHORE
- Michelle Carlson FEATURES EDITOR Second-yearEnglish JOE TURCOTTE SPECIAL PROJECTS EDITOR
Last night, the Wilfrid Laurier Uni- versity Students' Union (WLUSU) Board of Directors (BOD) held an emergency meeting to discuss
the 2008 election results - after a week of delaying the release of the results. The meeting, which started around 7 pm, saw a group of stu- "If you break the rules you gotta pay dentsforming theyear's largest gal- the consequences." lery, consisting of29 individuals.
Board Chair Jon Champagne ad- SYDNEY HELLAND - Scott Cherry dressed the crowd and set out the - an emergency of WLUSU Board of Directors. Second-year PPE BOARD BUSINESS Jon Champagne chairs meeting the parameters for the meeting. "I ask that you please let the Board go in camera and discuss the issues per- failed to receive the required sup- the corporation," he explained. discussion. taining to the day. Then I recom- port of the Board, but upon further Having listened to appeals from Josh Smyth, a former Board mend that we come out of camera, clarification from Champagne, a the gallery, a motion was passed member, demanded a reason for we'll listen to everyone, record second motion to move in camera that the meeting would proceed the Board's decision. "If you're their input and we'll continue was quickly passed. in camera, and then come out of discussing things like what's going from there," said Champagne. "Explaining why we need to camera to hear more comments to happen with the election itself, Board members, including Kory proceed in camera puts WLUSU from the students in attendance. that cannot be in camera. There's Preston and Greg Sacks, asked for in a position where it can be sued," After nearly an hour of in camera no way... it's a matter of policy." clarification as to why the meeting said Champagne. discussions, the Board allowed Dan Hocking, former Vice-Pres- needed to proceed in camera. Champagne defended the posi- members of the gallery to return ident: Marketing and vice-chair of "Apathetic." "Basically, you'd like to go in tion, citing that information that to the board room to voice their the board, echoed Smyth's com- camera and then you can plead was to be discussed was ofa sensi- opinions. ments, saying, "for the Board that
-
Steve ... Donogue the case as to why it needs to stay tive nature and could lead to legal Following this, Champagne's always preaches transparency First-year Philosophy in camera and then if we're satis- challenges if handled improperly. decision to begin the meeting in for something like this to be dis- fied with whether or not it should "Legal council has been contacted camera was immediately chal- cussed in camera doesn't seem stay in camera, then we can decide by one or more candidates on this lenged by the gallery members, very transparent, or very demo- cratic or representative." whether or not to take it out of matter. The information in the dis- who wished to know why they very asked to the room Compiled by Dave Shore camera?" Sacks probed. cussion that the Board will be hav- were leave Photographs by Greg McKenzie An initial motion to go in camera ing can be potentially harmful to while the Board carried forth their - SEE MEETING, PAGE 4 4 News WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 13,2008 ■ THE CORD WEEKLY Run-off election
- FROM RE-ELECTION, COVER
"You sit in the board meeting and they're talking about you, but you can say nothing," said LeFevre. LeFevre is also concerned that the results ofa re-election may now be skewed. "There is a significant group ofpeople who are against me that feel I am to blame for Brian's
removal from ... the candidacy. The results will come out biased when they never were before. SYDNEY HELLAND because "I ran my campaign I RE-VOTE - A group of students gather outside of the WLUSU boardroom last night, expressing their desire for another presidential election. see changes that I think need to be done. This election has become so dirty and so ridiculous, from other campaigns, to the Board of Direc- tors, that I'm getting incredibly dis- Student protesters interrupt couraged," said LeFevre. Despite the Board's decision as a whole to proceed with elections in this way, three of the 11 voting deliberations over elections board members present, including Jocelyn Buder, were asked to ab- stain from their vote because of a - FROM MEETING, PAGE 3 level," Gottfried said. "And we are in camera discussion on the fate of manager for Punambolam, further conflict of interest. going on so little. We're going on the election, where they remained expanded upon the group's reason "It was the three members ofCo- hearsay and gossip and rumours." until a decision was reached. for protesting the meeting. "We lin's campaign team. However, the Multiple gallery members ap- The members of the gallery con- A short timelater, another group did kind ofknow about [the meet- members of Pun's campaign team pealed to the Board to reconsider tinued their insistence that the of students gathered outside the ing] in advance, but we only knew were not included," she said. their decision, asking that the Board debate the matter with the board room and voiced their opin- that it was getting a little intense," Aside from a few directors, all of Board debate the matters in ques- students in attendance. Jocelyn ions about this year's election. she explained. the board members present had tion solely as policy issues in order Butler, a current Board member, "We're calling for a re-vote," "We heard that Colin [LeFevre]'s affiliations with a campaign team. to avoid thepossibility of liability. commented that she felt that a de- explained Trevor Mayoh, a supporters were here and we Champagne would not respond to Keren Gottfried, a former Board cision ought to have been made. fourth-year political science stu- thought we should show up as well
why certain directors were deemed member and current President "In all honesty, this decision has dent. "We understand that Brian ... just to make sure that things to be in conflict of interest because of Wilfrid Laurier University Stu- been going on for a long time," said [Punambolam]'s out but we just are fair and just to make sure that it is in camera. dent Publications (WLUSP), com- Butler. "Most states don't even want an opportunity to actually student voices are heard," she "You have to lookat the issue pre- plained that, since election day, have a longer decision than we've vote for the candidates running in explained. sented to the Board and decide if... the general students have not got going on right now. Let's just the electionand have a voice about After a lengthy in camera dis- someone's ability is jeopardized to been adequately informed regard- get this over with." who's going to be our President. So cussion, the Board determined make an unobstructed decision," ing the situation surrounding the Despite requests from multiple that's what we're calling for and I that the best course of action was said Champagne. election. members ofthe galleryto hold dis- think that's totallyreasonable." to hold a run-off election between Other than the 11 directors pres- "There is information in here cussion based solely on policy, the Laurel Tubman, a fourth-year LeFevre and Fraser. ent for the meeting, WLUSU Presi- that's not in camera, on aprinciple Board passed a motionto return to music student and a campaign dent Dan Allison, Chief Returning Officer Craig Stover, and Appellate Committee and WLUSU staff mem- * Jflfc Jfe MHH A Jfc ber Matt Parkwere also present. "They were there to provide in- jom usfOß formation to the Board and be a FH9R
resource ... to their side," said 880-1500s give Champagne. Dan Hocking, former vice-chair "^P^;^MgiCKga of the BOD and former VP: Market- ing for WLUSU, expressed his con- cern with this. Student Special T""", "As a staff member, Matt Park f|l| should not be permitted to argue in that room. The argument should have been Dan Allison's and Dan 1 Large Pizza Ijßf J Allison's alone. He's thelinkage be- tween the Board and the staff," said Hopping Hocking. Champagne says that Park was onlypresent in the room to provide '7 the board with information. "He was an election official and . . Ask to receive our team menu when you show us your Laurier ID the Board made a decision to allow iin piVw»l\nirk Up \Jlliynn v East Side Mario's ts a registered trade-mark of PRC TrademarksInc. l)wd underlicense. ©200? Prime Restaurants of CanadaInt. Waterloo 07 him to be there," said Champagne. \ ■"■■■, Former board member Bryn Ossington feels that there were in- S h dividuals present during the delib- A ?2Twoodtan EMMANUEL UNITED CHURCH fj»|| that not been an WjEm erations should have p oacj west is inclusive multi-generational congregation he influ- in the room, which feels Guelph located in uptown Waterloo, just enced the Board's decision. "When we were leaving the in —j camera session the first person to speak up was Matt Park. Not the Kitchener SundayJ mornings6 at 10:30,' on wflb- chair of the board, not the Presi- Time for a Road Trip into the country fl "1 Bridgeport between King and dent, not a director - an ex-director Check us out online at Thirst, Thursdays I Al^ert.VaMßßM who has recendy resigned." http://www.stampederanch.ca/ No cover for Students www.emmuneluc.ca Weekly ■ Wednesday February 13,2008 The Cord News . 5 A history of elections at Laurier
This year's WLUSU election has had its share of problems, so here's a look at other controverisal elections in our Union's past
1972: Elections nearlyannulled against the Student' Union bylaws more than the maximum number at the time. After an appeal was of three fines. Elections were close to annulment filed, the DAC agreed to let the can- Though both candidates ap- Students at the polls after an appeal was filed relating to didate stay in the running, yet he pealed the disqualification to the a number of concerns, including was unsuccessful as the presiden- DAC, they were removed from the 1999 things such as over postering on tial candidate. ballot prior to the election. the behalf of the winning president More appeals followed after the Specifically a total of five infrac- An acclaimed president took over the union, with just over and VP: University Affairs, that sev- elected candidate was announced, tions were submitted to the Elec- 16 percent voter turnout, the lowest in the decade. eral ballots went missing, that the relating to an editorial published in tions Committee regarding the ballot box was not in public view The Cord, which endorsed the win- presidential candidate, which in- 2000 during voting at the beginning of ning candidate. cluded hanging unstamped post- polling and that candidates were ers, campaigning in Wilf's, distrib- One vote made the difference between presidential not allowed to be interviewed on 1995: Elections delayed uting campaign material to TA's candidates, with 545 votes putting the winner into the Radio Lutheran. and distributing campaign buttons WLUSU office. Most notably there were signifi- Elections were postponed two which were not authorized. cant concerns about the ChiefElec- weeks as a result of a significant de- The concerns regarding the pres- toral Officer, specifically relating to lay in regards to the mail-out bal- idential candidate Mike Keriakos his impartiality, concerns that he lots for co-op students. were mainly due to his association didn't follow election procedures, The Open Forum this year also with VP: UA candidate Renee Pel- and that he overrode a decision to received much criticism as candi- letier. Pelletier was thought to pos- disqualify the candidates who were dates were attacked on personal is- sibly be violating policy after ad- found to be overpostering. sues from their pasts, including the dressing students at a communica- Due to the biases of many of the conduct of one presidential can- tion studies information night and Join the Cord Action Students' Administrative Council's didate who was questioned about being endorsed by her program (SAC) members the decision was spending a night in jail with the director. placed in the hands of the Dean's president of Ryersons' Students' The Chief Returning Officer Advisory Council (DAC) who de- Union while attending a confer- speaks out about the need to revise News Team! cided that the appeal following the ence in Halifax and streaking at an- and clarify election policies. election did not qualify as sufficient other one. reasoning to annul the '72 election. 2003: Informationleaked [email protected] 1998: Two candidates 1992: Policy and Endorsements disqualified Confidential voting information brought under scrutiny was left on the hard drive on a Two candidates, one running for PRISM laptop, which included [email protected] A ruling by the Elections Coun- president and the other for VP: spreadsheets with a break down of cil permitted a part-time student University Affairs, were disquali- votes by faculty and polling station to run for president, which was fied from the election for receiving and information on spoiled ballots.
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r ' ®UVTHE ECORD W *k»M I 6 News WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 13,2008 ■ THE CORD WEEKLY NEWS INBRIEF Punambolam OneCard audit report North was officially opened on ment Disorders Research and Re- campus. habilitation Centre is testing the writing to start soon The Special Constable Service new shoe insole on Parkinson's was previously known as Com- patients. The Sole Sensor is in its Four months after an munity and Security. The final phase of product develop- disqualified undertaking Safety extensive audit at the OneCard of- new office will house administra- ment. It is expected to be out on fice, itlooks like there may soon be tive offices, a work area, interview the market and available for pur- an end in sight. rooms, lockers, a shower and a bi- chase sometime later this year. "It's starting to come to a close," cycle storage room. from race saidJim Butler, VP: Finance at Lau- rier. "They say this is it, we're done, GRT strike still possible
- have the consequences," and they've just got to write it up," Research from a FROM PUN, COVER to accept he added. According to a press release issued he added. Butler says that, although the professor at Laurier by the Region of Waterloo, the After an emergencyBoard ofDirec- Kelly Guest, a fifth-year student process of investigation has nearly Canadian Auto Workers (CAW) tors (BOD) meeting was called on who has been involved in various ended, he still has no official word helps prevent seniors Union Local 4304 - which repre- Thursday night, the BOD decided presidential campaigns over the of as to when he will receive thefinal sents Grand River Transit drivers, to allow the Appellate Committee last four years, was one the con-
- who report. from falling mechanics, dispatchers, etc. will to delay counting the ballots un- cerned individuals approached "I've been given no date, they're legally be able to go on strike as of til Tuesday morning, once a result Mike McMahon, General Manager of WLUSU, last week with specific justfinalizing some ofthe elements A new shoe insole called the Sole 12:01 am tomorrow. regarding the disqualification was they're looking into and they're Sensor has been co-invented by While discussions are ongoing made. concerns she had relating to policy about how going to write it up," he said. Dr. Stephen Perry, a professor in between the Region of Waterloo Though disappointed los- and particularly Punambolam had been Though Buder is looking for- Laurier's Kinesiology and Physical and the CAW, some of the key is- ing a candidate in the race, presi- and his team acting dur- the ward to having the audit wrapped Education Department. sues under contention remain dential hopeful Ross Fraser felt that ing campaign period. "There has been a up soon, he in no way wants to The Sole Sensor is designed to unknown due to a media blackout theright decision was made. lot ofdirty play rush the process. prevent seniors from falling and being enforced by both sides. "Practice was followed the right in elections this year," said Guest. "I would have preferred it been improve their balance. It has been Mike McMahon, general man- way. Procedure was followed. So if While LeFevre and Guest feel done much quicker, but I would developed with research that has ager of Wilfrid Laurier University that's the decision that they made that the policies in place regarding prefer they do a thorough job rath- been funded by the Canadian In- Students' Union, offered further then I stand by it," said Fraser. the election fines are clear, Punam- er than a quick job." stitute of Health Research. insight in that, if the strike extends The other candidate running, bolam does not feel that they have Dr. Perry performed his re- past seven days, students will start Colin LeFevre, also expressed his sufficient grounds on which to base search atLaurier where he created to receive daily compensation disappointment in losing a can- his disqualification. WLU opens new prototypes and carried out clini- based on the $40 per-term fee that didate, but again felt that the right "A lot of communication errors
cal trials. A group of seniors aged is paid for the bus pass - which decision was made regarding the were displayed throughout the community policing between 65 and 75 wore the sole would work out to $0.47 per day circumstances. process and in terms of the vague- sensors for 12 weeks and, as a re- for therest of the term. "No one wants to win in a way ness ofthe policies those need to be office on campus sult, had half the number of falls that the person who won was dis- tweaked," saidPunambolam. in comparison to a second group - Compiledby Laura Carlson, Mad- qualified. No one really does," said "I question the democratic pro- Yesterday, the new Community who did not wear them. havi Ganjuand Dan Polischuk LeFevre. cess and the election process, but I he Policing Office at 232 King Street At the moment, Laurier's Move- "But the fact of the matter is, know it'll be changed next year,"
when you break the rules - and added.
they're very clearly outlined - you
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«jsi Weekly ■ Wednesday February 13,2008 The Cord News . 7 Laurier recipient of government grant Got computer problems? Laurier to receive over $3 million dollars from Ontario government
MARA SILVESTRI over; that's how big of a back-log of tors, so he and his associates were STAFF WRITER maintenanceissues we've got," said already working towards security Butler, adding that "we've had a enhancements at Ontario colleges Recently, it was announced that the number of leaking roofs that we've and universities. Ontario government is investing had to fix, a number of things that As far as Curran's hopes for the almost $15 million in Kitchener- had to be repaired. distribution of money within cam- Waterloo region's post-secondary "These things have to be replaced pus security, he noted that, "It's go- schools. ing to be decided at Laurier will be receiving "We could spend that ten times the senior manage- $3,383,500 and the news of this in- ment level, but I Go to Waterloo Networks for vestment gave Laurier's President, over; that's how big of a back-log have made recom- Dr. Max Blouw, "great pleasure." OF MAINTENANCE ISSUES WE'VE GOT." mendations in re- any computer problems. As far as the changes we can ex- gards to emergency pect to see and the allocation of the measures, to no-
money, Dr. Blouw notes that the - JimButler, VP: Finance and tifying systems on areas which the school is looking Administration campus, to more at investing the money are part of video surveillance "a long list" which specifically in- periodically and they're expensive," and emergency poles around cam- cludes new stadium lighting as well Buder added. pus." Curran also said that he has as more general areas. Laurier, Conestoga College and asked for five new staff members. $55 flat rate! "There are three target areas for the University ofWaterloowere only With new money invested in the funds," explained Blouw, noting three ofthe post-secondary institu- the local institutes, Dr. Blouw is Get connected! House networking starts at $10/ Campus Safety and Security, cam- tions province-wide to receive a optimistic about the future of the pus renewal and energy projects. bulk of the $200 million investment community. Blouw added that, "We are meet- from the Ontario government. "The attraction of the Kitchener- ing to discuss the appropriate tar- Uponhearing the news that some Waterloo region to students is the gets for these monies, but they will of the money would be allocated to overall quality and there is an ex- be spent on these three areas." campus security, Rod Curran, Di- citement here in the region about Jim Butler, the Vice President: rector of CommunitySafety and Se- growth and exciting opportunities Finance and Administration, noted curity said, "We are very pleased to for work and so on, so these mon- that the upkeep of physical infra- see some of this money earmarked ies will assist in improving our en- structure for the university is an for that." vironment," Blouw said. important area for the school to Curran is also president of the invest in. Ontario Association of College and Impact Community "We could spend that ten times University Security Administra- Your I^TJirTtrTl Think you've got what it takes to be on the |HJj 112i 1 H'J j JUDICIAL AFFAIRS COUNCIL? |MUyyUUBHyL| The J.A.C. is currently hiring highly motivated, dynamic INDIVDUALS TO SERVE their community AS part OF THE COUNCIL « Complete 30-Hour Seminars during the 2008-2009 Academic Year * Proven Test-Taking Strategies 1 CHAIRPERSON t Personalized Professional Instruction
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helping WLU students to 255 King st. n. ■ y) look and see their best ■ Since 1995 519-888-0411 Different Strokes www.opticalillusioninc.ca 8 News WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 13, 2008 ■ THE CORD WEEKIY Campus club gets group status In compliance with Campus Clubs, the Laurier Freethought Alliance granted official status after re-wording constitution
MICHELLE CALDARONI like that from the beginning to be STAFF WRITER inclusive to non-believers." "We called ourselves the A year has passed since the Lau- Freethought Alliance for a reason, rier Freethought Alliance (LFA) because 'freethought' is a very in- originally applied for official Lau- clusive umbrella term; it can mean rier club status on campus. Having anyone from the most radical ex-
dealt with its fair share of media tremist anti-theist ... to somebody attention, a club constitution was who is a liberal moderate Chris- negotiated and the group was offi- tian," he said. cially granted its desired status. The improved constitution now Campus Clubs had initially re- includes two new phrases: "... we jected the LFA's application on the are open to anyone ofall faiths and basis that it was not inclusive of all belief systems so long as they re- students at Wilfrid Laurier Univer- main civil in discussion with fellow sity and asked that its constitution group members" and"the Laurier be amended to provide a more all- Freethought Alliance doesn't pro- encompassing charter. mote anti-religion or disrespect of "What they wanted was, in the religion, but it does value the right end we're going to get campus to be critical of any and all be- club money, and every single stu- lief systems, even those of its own SYDNEY HELUND dent pays money into the Students' members." FREE THINKERS - Newly approved campus club, the Laurier Freethought Alliance, holds a discussion. Union. They want for every student to theoretically be included," ex- plained LFA Vice President Anatoly Venovcev. After adding three additional sentences to the improved consti- tution, Campus Clubs was satisfied with the wording and connotation. While the club was granted official status, LFA President Tyler Handley was not satisfied with the way the application was handled. ''?'& "The reason for denying us club I?'& I status did not seem like a legitimate denial. It seemed intolerant of our I ■ " belief systems. We said [in our con- stitution] 'to live a happy and fulfill- ■'' ' ' '• ' •. , -v „.. 112 ■ ,■: .-V- •c' s ing ethical and moral life without religion or superstition'." "I don't know how they took that to mean we would be intoler- ant to other groups on campus," he added. When asked why theLFA decided to comply with the Campus Clubs request, Venovcev replied, "We did * it to accomodate potential mem- '
to ~ - ' atheists. It's accommodate ev- ISfc 43&>~¥fr ;> i ■ -a&gqpysaw-..7 .».• ■-. W t- ■•■■ ,w W- J eryone who is a non-believer. Ag- nostics, atheists, humanists. It was ° 4 : -~ mil^^PriSr -fltirHHnHir x , * Us# . : iaWi^^MM»taT K »■ .i , -s WV : » iff|„ ffCX, MTMf | , |§£» l 'JHnv >-. '*m* miii1 1«4 18ii19a i I
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I Special Constables were I I conta cted by a RLAC to I ' I report that sometime last I I evening a female student I I was hit in the face with a I I paintball shot from a mov- | I ing vehicle. The student was I I not seriously injured in the I ■ incident. Waterloo Region- I I al Police have been notified I Hand will be investigating. J The Cord Weekly ■ Wednesday February 13,2008 News 9 Political minds collaborate at panel discussion
ALARIC DENNIS The event concluded with a was an enthusiastic speaker in both STAFF WRITER celebration for the release of the panel discussions. book Two Cheers for Minority Gov- "It means the big issues of the Last Friday, several influential Ca- ernment by University of Toronto day, whether they're Afghanistan or nadian political scientists gathered Professor Emeritus, Dr. Peter H. climate change, are really hashed at Wilfrid Laurier for a day of dis- Russell. out in parliament," he added. cussion entitled: Minority Report: Dr. Russell is a prominent Cana- Members of the panels and au- The Effects of Minority Govern- dian political scientist and author dience explored both the positive ment in Canada since 2004. whose previous books and essays and negative aspects of minority The activities of the day includ- have touched on a wide range of rule and frequendy referenced the ed morning and afternoon panel topics from aboriginal land rights in current minority Conservative gov- on a Australia to judicial independence. ernment and the actions of Prime ——TP - M'TM—IlIIIMIIHIIIIIIIM^Idiscussions, which touched SYDNEY HELLAND number of issues including public "Parliamentary government... is Minister Stephen Harper, a govern-
MINORITY REPORT - U of T Professor Emeritus Dr. Peter H. Russell and foreign policy as well as the government by discussion and de- ment that Dr. Russell characterizes poses with his new book, exploring Canada's minority government. environment. bate," commented Dr. Russell, who as a "grumpy minority." Several times, panelists com- mented on the cumbersome na- ture ofminority governmentrule in reference to the ability to pass leg- islation and the need to co-operate with opposition parties. Dr. Russell was quick to respond by pointing out that "parliament is virtually irrelevant during the four years or five years a single party government governs." The final chapter of Dr. Russell's book, which wasreferenced during the discussions, challenges Canadi- ans to "be prepared to enjoy the cut and thrust of politics, to enjoy... the blessings ofminority government." |g lifc' fl Cord/Online
> cordweekly.com >News STOP FAST START IN AT H&R BLOCK TAX PREP SPENDING Scientology protest in Kitchener Local members of Inter- net-based group protest the controverisal Church of Scientology in Kitchener, writes Alaric Dennis.
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_____ • J --< f| „ —— |„ | ■ 10 International WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 13,2008 > THE CORD WEEKLY PNP to include visa students Ontario Minister of Citizenship and Immigration Michael Chan announced the inclusion of international students under the Provincial Nominee Program, a step that would "fast-track" their residency if they have a job offer relating to their area of study
WALEED HAFEEZ bright... these are the skilled indi- come a hotspot for new Canadians INTERNATIONAL EDITOR viduals Ontario's employers need." and that over the past six years it Furthermore, since international has welcomed over 15,000 new- The University of Waterloo wel- students eligible for the nomina- comers. She says,"It is expected comed Ontario Minister of Citi- tionprogram must have completed that the population of Waterloo re- zenship and Immigration Michael their degree at a Canadian post- gion will increase by over 200,000 Chan yesterday, as he spoke to the secondary institution, they "are fa- in the course of the next 25 years." community regarding the addition miliar with Canadian life and will "The Pilot Provincial Nominee ofinternational students under the enhance multiculturalism in On- Program is helping to spread the Ontario Pilot Provincial Nominee tario. In a rapidly globalizing world, benefits of immigration in this re- Program. international students will be the gion and across the province," said International students who are bridges between Ontario and the Pendergast. offered jobsrelevant to their area of world." UW VP: Academic and Provost study will have their application for In addition, Minister Chan spoke Dr. Amit Chakma, previously an in- permanentresidency "fast-tracked" of Ontario's reputation across the ternational student, explained that by Citizenship and Immigration world as a melting pot of cultures, when he was at university in Van- Canada, as explained in a news re- adding that international students couver, he "made every attempt to lease accompanying the minister's have the opportunity to strengthen stay in this country and make this address. the province's social and economic country my home, but all those Minister Chan explained that foundations. That is why, he added, attempts were met with numer- Ontario's universities attract some "attracting and retaining interna- ous obstacles." He added that this oftheworld's best and brightest and tional students makes sense," and program is welcome news and will that many of them want to stay on giving them another option after serve the province very well. after they graduate. He added that graduation would be another rea- Dr. Chakma also said that with the Ontario government "wanted son for them to choose Ontario for "so many jobs unfilled in the prov- them to stay." their education. ince, expanding the Pilot PNP to Previously, only graduates of On- Minister Chan was joined by include international students will tario colleges and universities were Minister of Training, Colleges help fill all these vacant positions, allowed to nominate themselves and Universities John Milloy, and which would benefit the larger for the program, but the current Kitchener-Conestoga Member of community." CONTRIBUTED PHOTO change would allow international Provincial Parliament (MPP) Lee- Also present at the press confer- UPDATED PNP - Minister Chan at UW's International Resource Room. students from across Canada to ap- anna Pendergast, in making the ence was lain Klugman, president ply to become permanent residents announcement. ofCommunitech, Waterloo region's of Ontario. With more than 35,000 MPP Pendergast said that adding technology association, who repre- international students in Ontario international students under the sented the technological corpora- low businesses to find the talent Arab Emirates. Al-Abadleh said and that alone, this initiative aims to tap into Pilot Provincial Nominee Program tions housed in K-W region. they need." that "a new day has come" the skills and experiences interna- would have a "positive impact on He said that the announcement The student perspective was this proves that the Ontario govern- tional students present. the Kitchener-Waterloo region and was "welcome news to the technol- presented by UW graduate student ment has a viable vision to attract Minister Chan added that "they on the province of Ontario." She ogy sector of the region." The new Eman Al-Abadleh, a management international students and help are hard-working, talented and added that the K-W region has be- approach to the Pilot PNP will "al- sciences student from the United themstay in Canada. Detainment and torture under US law The CIA admits to using waterboarding as a technique for obtaining information despite international uproar against the practice
YOUSUF SAJJAD Prisoners are strapped by their engineered from manuals on how might soon be common parlance. Turing people is illegal under the CORD INTERNATIONAL limbs onto a gurney, sometimes in to survive Soviet torture. These tribunals are being autho- United States Constitution. The stressful positions, and have water In Sheikh Mohammad's case, a rized by the Military Commissions Military Commissions Act aims to Current Director of the Central In- poured onto their faces. The water twist was the bait of his children Act of 2006, which was passed by permit the former. But whilst the telligence Agency (CIA) General enters their windpipe, triggering under US custody. After Sheikh the Senate and Congress, with little famous McCain Anti-Torture Bill of Michael Hayden admitted to Con- a gag reflex which also makes the Mohammad's March 2003 capture, press coverage. 2005 explicitly outlawed theformer, gress on Tuesday, February 5, that prisoners fear for their lives. This Australian newspaper The Age re- The wording of these tribu- a signed statement by President
the US used torture to attempt to fear of drowning to death is what is ported on the threat of mentally nals states that "any person ... in Bush has negated the anti-torture extract information from prisoners supposed to make prisoners talk. torturing his sons. breach of an allegiance or duty to bill. Presidential candidate John held at Guantanamo Bay. The main man on whom Gen- Sheikh Mohammad had escaped the United States, knowingly and McCain has yet to comment on As described in a 2005 ABC News eral Hayden admitted using wa- at the time, but his sons were cap- intentionally aids an enemy of the President Bush's overruling of the
report, the torture tactic used is terboarding was Khalid Sheikh tured in Karachi in September United States ... shall be punished McCain Anti-Torture Bill. known internationally as water- Mohammad, the mastermind be- 2002. Pakistani authorities handed as a military commission," as noted A lack of spirited opposition boarding, and is considered torture hind September 11. The infamous over the (then) seven- and nine- in an online release ofthe act. has allowed this administration by a majority of Western govern- waterboarding technique was used year-old boys to the US. Their pres- The wording must be repeated to use the tool of vaguely phrased ments and human rights groups. on him, along with tactics reverse- ent locations are unknown. because lawyers have contended Presidential Signing Statements. The confession of the CIA to us- that the phrase "any person" is Accessible on the White House ing interrogation techniques widely too vague and that "breach of alle- website, these signing statements considered as torture must be seen giance or duty to the United States" have aided kidnapping and torture, in the light of the announcements is possibly worse. Khalid Sheikh whilst also opening the door to the of a full trial for the proclaimed Muhammad was never under alle- confiscation of assets belonging to September 11 plotter. giance or duty to the United States. anybody who opposes US efforts at The announcement of military The only people who could be so "stabilizing" Iraq, as per a Washing- alternatives to the constitutional are either individual foreign allies ton Post report. justice system was accompanied by ofthe US, orAmericans themselves, The practical effect, though, has the Pentagon pushing for the death they argue. been to bog down processes of penalty. As a military affair, these Trial under the Military Com- oversight whilst extending detain- tribunals will be under the author- missions Act strips one of the right ments unauthorised by any court. ity ofthe Pentagon, the US military to face one's accusers in a court of Senators Patrick Leahy and Arlen CONTRIBUTED PHOTO headquarters. constitutional law, known as habe- Specter have currendy tabled a Ha- Military tribunal is not part ofthe as corpus, to beas Restoration Act, which OH EAU - Proof obtained through torture is inadmissable in court. dating King John. Corpus averageAmerican's vocabulary, but Denying habeas corpus and tor- is still under debate. The Cord Weekly ■ Wednesday February 13,2008 INTERNATIONAI 11 Kidney kingpin captured "Dr. Horror" was arrested in Nepal after running an illegal transplant hospital
The kidneys removed by Kumar a Canadian chequebook were in vestigation, which has been track- were then transplanted into high- the doctor's possession at the time ing this operation for over ten years, paying recipients from countries of his capture. registered a case against Kumar on around the world, including Cana- While in custody, Kumar was Friday, charging him with "crimi- da. questioned at great length by Nep- nal conspiracy, cheating and illegal After the Gurgaon transplant alese police officials about his sus- transplanting ofkidneys." hospital was uncovered by Indian pected kidney racketeering, and They also requested that the police officials last month, doz- the police have since reported that Nepalese government order his de- ens of Kumar's accomplices were Kumar confessed to performing at portation as soon as possible. On captured and prosecuted. Kumar, least 300, and possibly up to 500, Saturday, Kumar was placed un- however, managed to evade police kidney transplant operations in der arrest by the Indian police and for some time. India. brought to Delhi. Red Notices were then issued by All charges have Interpol for both Kumar and one One man in the village told been denied by Ku- of his accomplices, 36-year-old Je- mar, who claimed REPORTERS THAT HE WAS OFFERED evan Rawat, who is still at large. The during a police charges cited by Interpol against 150,000 Nepalese rupees press conference liltl 'I' Willi llH—W—llillliMWMl—■IMMM—III I GETTY IMAGES these men were under the section in Kathmandu that
- (S236oCAD) for one of his kidneys, DR. HORROR Kumar pled innocence on all charges against him. of "crimes against life and health, he is innocent and organized crime, and transnational BUT HE ONLY RECIEVED 54,000 is being framed. STEPHANIE MCENERY als who sold theirkidneys to Kumar crime." Nepalese rupees (SBsoCAD) as He has also spoken STAFF WRITER have confirmed that theywere paid On February 7, Kumar was ap- on his own behalf less than the agreed-upon price for prehended in thelobby ofthe Hotel PAYMENT. saying, "I am just a The doctor allegedly responsible for their vital organs. Wildlife Camp in Chitwan, Nepal. doctor, not akidney leading an illegal kidney transplant The Hindustan Times has report- The staff at the hotel became con- dealer. I will reveal hospital in the New Delhi suburb of ed that in the last three years, at cerned about Kumar when they It has also been alleged that Ku- all the truth by organizing a press Gurgaon, India was arrested in Ne- least one person from each family saw him removing articles about mar attempted to bribe Nepalese conference after my release." pal by officials on Thursday, Febru- in the Jyamdi village in Nepal has the kidney transplant operation officials to release him. This case has found its way to ary 7. sold a kidney. from newspapers. Kumar told officials he was trying Canada, as Kumar is known to have Forty-year-old Dr. Amit Kumar, One man in the village told re- Whenthe Nepalese police arrived to purchase a guest house in Nepal ties around the Toronto area. The or "Dr. Horror" as he has now been porters that he was offered 150,000 at the resort, they arrested the doc- so he could open another trans- RCMP and the Toronto Police De- dubbed, has reportedly been pur- Nepalese rupees (S236OCAD) for tor for carrying more than the legal- plant hospital and shift home base partment have also been involved chasing kidneys from impoverished one of his kidneys, but he only re- ly allowed amount of foreign cur- to Kathmandu. Kidney transplants in the investigations, as Kumar citizens from various villages in In- ceived 54,000 Nepalese rupees rency. Approximately US$lB,OOO, are currently illegal in Nepal. has been said to own a home in a dia. Reports from several individu- (SBSOCAD) as payment. 150,000Euros ($217,514CAD), and The Indian Central Bureau of In- Brampton suburb. Too many hands at play in Lebanon
ter Fouad Siniora. The otherfaction most disastrous American presi- is led by Hezbollah, the Islamic po- dencies since Richard Nixon. And litical organization, in alliance with then we have Iran and President Michel Aoun, who is a Maronite Mahmoud Ahmedinejad, who YUSUF FAQIRI Christian. brought shame and disgrace to mil- CORD INTERNATIONAL As per the Taif agreement of lions of Persians with hisridiculous 1989 that ended the civil war, the comments. Growing up in the Middle East, I Lebanese government is to be con- Yet these same countries, in their constantly asked my father about structed so that the president is a efforts to exert control over the re- politics and his response was al- MaroniteChristian, theprime min- gion, continue to undermine the ways the same: "Yusuf, you can ister is a Sunni Muslim and the par- political process in Lebanon. study politics for the rest of your liament speaker is Shi'a. At the same time, however, I do life, but you can never understand Sheikh Hasan Nasrallah, the not want to oversimplify the crisis. Middle Eastern politics." I always leader of Hezbollah, is seen as one But geopolitics is one of many fac- wanted to prove him wrong, but at of the most popular leaders in the tors that concern Lebanon today. times, especially when I look at the Arab and Islamic World. The crisis goes beyond the borders current situation in Lebanon, I find I have some deep reservations ofBeirut. that his words ring true. about what Hezbollah represents Iran's role in Lebanon is more The once majestic and beauti- and how it goes about its tactics, complicated than many realize, ful nation ofLebanon now faces its but I will not deny facts: the people with its most important deci- biggest crisis since the end of the in Lebanon want to be heard. sions being made by the Guardian civil war, which lasted from 1975 Many people in Lebanon want Council, which is controlled by the until 1989. the current government system Supreme Commander Ayatollah Although ravaged during the changed to make it reflect the Khamenei. Syria does Iran's dirty conflict, Lebanon had made a re- demographics. work in Lebanon by increasing ten- markable comeback by the late However, with so many outside sions amongst certain groups. nineties, when the infrastructure political interests vested in Leba- The most disturbing thing of all was strong once again. Some would non, the situation gets complex. is that we are discussing the situ- argue that the country is on the The irony is that all major external ation in Lebanon without really CONTRIBUTED PHOTO brink of another civil war, but parties involved in this situation - mentioning the nation of Lebanon yet CO-COALITION - Fouad Siniora, co-leader of the March 14 coalition, I the States (through France), or the Lebanese people. won't make that claim because I United one of the factions seeking control of the Lebanese governement. believe the people ofLebanon are Iran (through Hezbollah), Syria and Indeed, the current crisis has smarter than that. Saudi Arabia - preach the idea that profound similarities to 1975, but faith The Lebanese presidency - a the Lebanese should be able to de- I will continue to place my in C post usually allocated to a Maroni- cide their own fate without foreign the better judgement of Lebanese Cord/Online > cordweekly.com te Christian - has been vacant since interference. people. the end of November 2007, when They would like to make us be- Throughout their tumultuous > International Emile Lahoud left the post. How- lieve that they are preserving the history, the people of Lebanon ever, factions within the parlia- rights of the people of Lebanon. have proven to be resilient - this US Senate passes economic boost bill ment have failed to agree upon a However, such statements are so situation is no different. Cord International writer Shagun Randhawa discusses a candidate. bogus that not even an idiot could I will, however, say with extreme White House-backed bill to boost the economy by $146 billion Washington and Teh- One of these factions is the believe them. caution that if and promote consumer spending in the country. We ran seek conflict badly enough, they "March 14 coalition" led by Saad Let us start with Washington. V J Hariri and Lebanese Prime Minis- are in the dying days of one of the will have a Lebanese Civil War. 12 Sports WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 13,2008 > THE CORD WEEKLY Powder pufffights breast cancer After much preparation, Letter men run a successful football tournament and donate all the proceeds to cancer research
JORDAN VAN HORN this amount is well over what I founded the Breast Cancer Society CORD SPORTS thought we were going to raise last of Canada. week," said Williams. "We really The foundation continues to run This weekend marked the end to had a big push in the past week." strongly, a testament to the Kohl- another successful Powderpuff The girls were given pledge sheets meiers' and other volunteers' hard season. The tournament ran from to take home with them over the work and dedication in pursuit of a February 7-9, ending in dramatic holidays and bring back as much cure. fashion Saturday afternoon with an as they could. Pink toques were "I feel privileged to take part in exciting 14-7 win for Queens over also sold in the Concourse and at this tournament," said Kohlmeier. the Shockers from the University of the two tournaments this year. The "It's good that people our age are Waterloo. moneyraised will go directly to the becoming more aware of the dis- The games were played on both BCSC to aid in the funding of can- ease. Thank you to everyone that Alumni Field and Knight-New- cer research. participated in the tournament and brough at University Stadium, ac- [the] Letterman [Club] and volun- commodating over 600 girls from teers that made the "There many hours to 24 teams, some teams coming from are too weekend possible." as close as Waterloo, while others COUNT THAT WE HAVE PUT INTO THIS "Letterman Ex- made the trek from as far away as ecutives, members TOURNAMENT, BUT IN THE END IT'S Sault Ste. Marie. and their friends The Wilfrid Laurier Varsity Let- JUST SO WORTH IT." put much time terman Club ran the tournament and effort into this that girls from all over the province tournament to en-
have come to love. In the midst of - Steve Williams, Letterman President sure the fun, safety battling on the football field and and impact of enjoying a fun-filled weekend, the the event," added Letterman Club was able to align it- The aligning of Powderpuff and Williams. self with the Breast Cancer Society the Breast Cancer societywas espe- "There are too many hours to ofCanada (BCSC). cially meaningful for one specific count that we have put into this On Saturday afternoon, Letter- participant in the tournament this tournament, but in the end it's just man Club President Steve Williams year. so worth it." presented a check to the BCSC for Mai Kohlmeier, a third-year bi- And so the Powderpuff season $7101.18. Williams deemed this a ology student and participant in has come and gone once again,
huge success considering the fact Powderpuff, lost her mother to but the girls can be happy that they TIM MCKENNA - TORONTO STAR breast cancer 16 Before were able to share a fun, exciting that last week he never dreamed years ago. FOOTBALL FOR THE FUTURE - Steve Williams, along with two Powder- they could raise so much. she passed away, Pamela Kohl- weekend together and, in the pro- puff teams and coaches, present the cheque for cancer research. "We had lofty expectations, but meier and her friends and family cess, support a great cause.
GOLDEN HAWK Ladies to meet Lancers in playoffs UPDATE Hawks lose 87-44 to Windsor this time, will meet again in the first round of the playoffs for revenge Week of February 14 - 20, 2008 LUKE DOTTO the Lancers were able to effectively STAFF WRITER set up their counter-attack with Roc point on. dictating play from that RECENT SCORES
* It was senior's day on Saturday, as Roc was the veritable thorn in the " ' 02.10.08 the Wilfrid Laurier women's bas- Hawks' side, as she led the Lancer W Hockey 4 - Windsor 1 ketball team looked to win one for charge with a game-high 32 points W Volleyball 3 - Waterloo 0
' the veterans against the high-pow- and six assists. The Hawks simply 02.09.0S ered Windsor had Lancers. no answer. W Hockey 2 - Toronto 2
Coming into the game from a "She was outstanding," said Ju- M Hockey 4 - Windsor 5 lengthy losing streak, the Golden lius. "Sometimes you actually get M Basketball 67 - Windsor 61 Hawks (9-12) looked to salvage caught watching her. I think she's W Basketball 44 - Windsor 87 M Volleyball 3 - Ryerson 0 what has become a disappointing the best in the province and prob- season and soar into the playoffs ably one of the top guards in the 02.07.0S
with momentum. country." M Hockey 4 - Waterloo 1 In order to do so, they would During halftime, there was a have to negate their opponent's service held by Julius to honour quick-strike offense and 1-2 duo of the Hawks' two outgoing seniors. UPCOMING HOME GAMES Iva Peklova and Dranadia Roc. Christine Gibson and Jillian Ritsma 02.16. OS The Hawks took to the court with were given framed Hawks jerseys M Basketball vs Brock determination in their eyes; after bearing the numbers they proudly Athletic Complex, 2:00 pm all, the most dangerous team is the donned, as their families joined one with nothing to lose. them on the court for pictures. BATTLES OF WATERLOO: Sadly, though, no cliche could When asked for comment on This week, both the men's Hockey save the women from their fate. their contributions to Hawks bas- and women's Volleyball teams The Lancers pounced on the ketball, Julius was quick with praise. face the University of Waterloo Hawks early, taking advantage of "Jillian has certainly won some big in hopes of OUA success.
their inability to set up in the of- games for us with her shooting ... GREG MCKENZIE COME SUPPORT THE HAWKS! fensive zone and failure to get good and Christine is such a hard work- DOUBLE DRIBBLE - Rhonda Kennedy attempts to beat her check. open looks and high-percentage er," he said. "It's been a pleasure to shots. coach them both." the "It's not necessarily the young Entering the second half, good things defensively, and our Saturday in the opening game of LAURIER BOOKSTORE kids that are missing the shots. pace markedly improved. The kids weren't adjusting to it, and the playoffs. ATHLETES OF THE WEEK Some of our veterans are missing Hawks defense was stingier and the we weren't hitting shots," Julius re- If the Hawks want to reverse their Jean-Paul Wikerd shots. We just miss shots at key counter-attack was quicker, but it marked. "I was really disappointed fortunes, the game plan is simple: Men's Volleyball times and we miss assignments was too little too late. with our effort." hit shots, remain clam and slow the Whitney Rich Swimming at key times," commented Head Dealing with the shot clock and Windsor took this one with ease, pace down. Coach Stu Julius. an inability to set up their attack 87-44, but it is the next match-up And shut down Roc. Peklova dominated down low cursed the team in the second half. between these two teams that mat- "She's a key; we have to hold her," with a game-high 15rebounds and "Windsor was doing some really ters, as they square off again on concluded Julius. vvw.laurierathletics.c Cord Weekly ■ Wednesday February 13,2008 The Sports . 13 Hawks beat Warriors Laurier overpowers Waterloo in straight sets to secure playoff postion
CHRIS BALUSCHAK ishes highlighted a solid team ef- victory for the Hawks. STAFF WRITER fort. Teresa Wick, an outside hitter "I think we played really well; we from Moorefield, ON, found herself practiced really hard all week," said In a fairly crowded Athletic Com- caught up in the action by making Sauder. plex on Sunday afternoon, the Wil- some outstanding digs and helping Although thrilled with the win, frid Laurier Golden Hawks wom- out on the offensive front as well. Snider feels that there is still room en's volleyball team defeated the The great team play by the squad for improvement. "I think we have University of Waterloo Warriors in was too much to handlefor the Wa- much more that we can do out three straight sets, 25-23, 25-15 and terloo team as they were misplay- there. This was a game that meant 28-26, to round out their regular ing theball and committing several more to us than it did Waterloo. It season. unforced errors, adding to theWLU was very important to us that we To open the first set, the 11-7 lead. Laurier was dominant for the win this match and we did, " he Hawks jumped out to an early 5-1 majority ofthe set and came out on said. lead before the concerned Warriors top, 25-15. The women now turn their at- (14-4) called a timeout. The Hawks The Hawks were now leading tention to the quarter finals, where were able to put together some two sets to none; a victory and an they will once again battle the Wa- greatrallies, play well as ateam and upset were in the making. The third terloo Warriors. The game takes capitalize on Warrior mistakes. set saw much of the same back and place this Friday at 7:00 pm at the Fourth-year left side player Kait- forth action as the first two sets, but University ofWaterloo. lin Sauder was very active, pound- the Hawks found themselves down the ball from both the front and 12-9 ing very quickly. \ back rows for points. Like the team had been doing all The Warriors, however, estab- game, they regained their compo- Cord/Online lished themselves with several sure and stormed back to a 17-15 > cordweekly.com
key plays at the net to keep the set lead. On the attack once again was > Sports close. After several exciting rallies, Sauder, with some enormous kills an exchange ofkills and blocks, the down the stretch. Men's Hockey: Watch next Hawks won the first set 25-23. With the score 27-26 in favour of Tuesday evening for In the second frame, the Hawks the Hawks, head coachLuke Snider results from this MIKE WHITEHOUSE - LAURIER ATHLETICS continued to remain confident and called on his service specialist, sec-
SPIKE! - Teresa Wick spikes the ball past two Waterloo opponents. stick to their game plan. Early on, ond-year Victoria Cowley. She de- weekend's playoff action. great rallies and even better fin- livered with an ace and sealed the V J Menput up valiant effort, fall toLancers With a loss to Windsor, the Hawks fall to 8-11 and cling to last playoff spot
JAMIE NEUGEBAUER Hie Hawks closed the gap with im- game, forcing the smaller Hawks STAFF WRITER pressive three-point shooting late to focus on the inside. Through- in the quarter from MacDonald, out most of the fourth quarter, the It was a very cold Saturday evening Dominique Brown and Kale Har- Hawks' defense continued looking when the Golden Hawks men's rison. When the buzzer for the half lethargic. basketball team hosted the nation's went, an entertaining second quar- With the score 59-51, however, ninth-rankedUniversity ofWindsor ter yielded a 32-32 tie. Laurier's star freshman Harrison Lancers. Though the Hawks played If the second frame was inter- decided to take matters into his with great effort and enthusiasm, esting, the third was riveting. The own hands, hitting a basket while the Lancers - the first-place team in Lancers struggled off the bat on being fouled hard. Nailing his shot the OUA West - were just too much both sides oftheball and the Hawks from the stripe, the Hawks seemed for themto handle. went on a 10-0 run to start off the to come alive with two minutes to Lancers fourth-year forward half. go. MacDonald then hit two free Greg Surmacz was dominant, scor- The turning point came with four throws, pushing the game within ing a game-high 26 points, while minutes left in the half; the Hawks threepoints. Hawks point guard Jesse MacDo- had opened up a seven-point lead The Hawks remained resilient nald netted a team-high 13. In the when back-up point guard Austin as MacDonald hit another clutch end, the Lancers escaped with a 67- Walsh gave up the ball at the point, three-pointer with 23 seconds to go 61 victory. tried to catch up with a Lancer to make the score 65-61. The dra- The game started very evenly guard in transition and acciden- ma mounted as the Lancers point with the Lancers showing their im- tally slammed him hard onto the guard stepped out of bounds with pressive high-energy defense from ground. 16 seconds to go, giving the Hawks the tip-off. As the quarter went on, The play yielded a technical foul, the ball back. the young Hawks squad looked giving the Lancers two foul shots The comeback was snuffed out, over-matched on the offensive side and the ball. From then on, the however, when the Hawks turned ofthe ball. Hawks' offense looked sluggish the ball over and the Lancers The Lancers' up-tempo defense and struggled against a rejuvenated sealed it with two more free throws, was forcing them deep into the Lancers team. Windsor then went giving themselves a 67-61 win and shot clock and making them take on a 9-0 run to end the third, giv- extending their unbeaten streak to the low-percentage jumpers that ing them a 49-47 lead going into the 10 games. this team isn't very comfortable last quarter. "1 was really happy with the ef- with. When the first quarter was in "We had at least two opportuni- fort," said Campbell. "Ithinktechni- the books, the Hawks were down ties in that run to make a basket," cally we broke down with a couple 25-13. commented Campbell of the third of things we were trying to do. The Whatever Laurier Head Coach quarter. "The problem is, when effort was there, the opportunity Peter Campbell said during the you're playing a team that has more was there to win it and we missed break seemed to work, as the parts than you've got, you've got to some shots we've been making." to 8- Hawks began to throw their weight capitalize on those opportunities With the loss, the Hawks fall around, crashing the boards and and we didn't do that." 11 and are still clinging to the last RYAN STEWART
- Walker's basket is blocked Windsor. giving Windsor a taste of their own In the fourth quarter, the Lanc- playoff spot in the conference with SHUTDOWN Matthew attempt by defensive medicine. ers finally engaged their strong post three games left. Cord Weekly ■ Wednesday February 13,2008 . - 15 14Feature WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 13,2008 THE CORD WEEKLY THE Feature Digital Dating: can we really click online?
With Valentine's Day looming, Features Editor Dave Shore puts online dating to the test in order to determine whether or not this booming service is worthwhile to the student population
DAVE SHORE more often I hear stories of people meeting grade to a paid membership in order to use brought me to the profiles ofthose that sent FEATURES EDITOR online and having long-term, successful ro- all oftheir functions.The ability to enter chat them. Unfortunately, had I actually wanted mances. So, while it seems all too easy for rooms, e-mail others online and interact in a to get in contact with them, the $29.99 fee Each month, 20 percent of Canadians will just about everybody online to be complete- number of different ways costs a whopping would be necessary to send back anything visit an online dating website. According to ly lying about themselves in a sad attempt $29.99 a month, the same for both sites. more than a cookie-cutter response. the CBC, online dating sites in Canada get at garnering human interaction, there also The only thing I could do on either site I found Date.ca to be even worse. While approximately seven million unique hits must be something about it that's desirable. without dishing out the big bucks was to I didn't receive any flirts from other mem- every month; that's just over one-fifth of the Of course, there was only one good way of send tiny, impersonal messages to other bers, I did get messages from the site pro- population. finding out whether electronic dating is all members. Date.ca called them "flirts," La- viding me with matches of other singles on While that number may initially seem a one big hoax or a viable way to meet other valife called them "smiles." the site. bit shocking, upon some reflection there's singles: I had to try it myself. After five days, these smiles/flirts were The matches I received for my own pro- really nothing surprising about it. Online After reading a few pointers and how-to the only way others contacted me. The final file were the exact same as those I received dating has been growing rapidly through- guides for writing online profiles, it became results? I tied with my alter ego on Date.ca: for Craig. They were clearly based entirely out the 2000s, to the point that it is one of apparent to me that the way to be most ef- neither of usreceived any flirts. Lavalife was on age and location, and had nothing to do the cultural markers of our generation. If fective on these sites is to make yourself slighdy more successful; while my personal with how I filled out my two profiles. While you haven't tried it, it's likely that somebody seem far more appealing than you are. Ba- account didn't receive any smiles, Craig both Craig and I had profiles saying we were close to you has. sically, the best liars seem to get the most Delasko got two. 19 years old, halfof the matches we received Drs. Robert J. Brym and Rhonda L. Len- dates. While it is difficult to make absolute con- were of women that were 28 and 29 years ton published a report in 2001 analyzing Thus, my alter ego was born. I decided clusions with such small results, there are old. the increasing trend of dating electroni- that I wanted to determine first-hand the still a few things to be learned from them. If Finding people on the site that live in the cally. Their report, Love Online: A Report on better method of presenting oneselffor on- nothing else, it seems that it pays to lie. same region and are the same age is some-
Digital Dating in Canada, provides reasons line matchmaking - should I be honest, or Craig's experiment certainly reinforces thing I could have done witha simple search. why online dating is becoming increasingly should I lie through my teeth? the notion that the best way to attract suit- Their matching system is totally pointless. popular. My experiment involved creating four ors online is to portray yourself in a waythat Ultimately, I found online dating to be a Some of the reasons include a decline in profiles in all, creating one for both myself you think is most attractive, not necessarily disappointing process, and one in which it workplace romances caused by increased and my fabricated stud on two popular dat- the wayyou are. is nearly impossible to distinguish the sin- sensitivity to sexual harassment, and the ing sites, Lavalife.com and Date.ca. "It's not about lying," Celine Petsche, a cere from the sleazy. But while I don't plan ever-increasing demands from careers and For my own profiles I tried to be as first-year BBA student, offered. "It's about to use the service again, I can certainly un- jobs. straightforward and honest as possible, an- omitting." One of the biggest attractions to derstand why people do. While these trends are sending more and swering the question about my weight with online dating is that you can portray your- Drs. Brym and Lenton pointed out the more people online, they take a backseat to "a few extra pounds" and admitted thatI'm self in any light you choose, removing most alarming trend that workplace romances the most plainly evident reason for the phe- "not very active." (Alright, I don't go to the of your negative qualities if you so desire. are decreasing, yet people are dedicating nomenon: there are more people online to gym, so sue me.) That reason, however, is also one of Internet more and more time to their workplaces. begin with. My alter ego, on the other hand, was cre- dating's biggest drawbacks. For those out in the workforce, it is becom- This is especially true of our generation, ated without so much as a hint of honesty. But simply being able to lie successfully ing harder to meet singles, and ifyou're will- which has more people logged on the web His name, Craig Delasko, was created by a wasn't the only reason I was disappointed ing to dish out the 30 bucks a month, online than any before it. All evidence suggests random name generator online. His profile with my experience of online dating. After dating presents an easy way to getin contact that as our generation ages, the amount of picture was nabbed from Facebook. As for all, when dealing with the Internet, one has with a large pool of other singles. people turning to the web for intimacy will his personality, he's a hockey-playing, ani- to go in expecting a certain level of deceit. But those that do search for dates on the rise. mal-loving environmentalist who enjoys go- Whatreally turned me off ofthe whole affair 'net have to contend with risk of embellish- Yet despite this, there seems to be an al- ing out dancing. He's cute, smart and com- was that, at least without having to empty ment from those they meet, and the loom- most unanimous skepticism from students passionate. He's a made-up masterpiece. your wallet, the entire process was remark- ing possibility that a successful relationship regarding its legitimacy. Both Craig and myself were allowed only ably impersonal. might mean having to pack up and move to "To put it gendy, I wouldn't do it," said five days to linger on the dating sites to see if On Lavalife, the smiles I received were another part ofthe world. first-year music student Josh Manuel when we piqued anyone's interest. I didn't think it simple cookie-cutter messages. People While there are success stories of online asked about dating digitally. was fair to anybody to engage in chats with sending smiles are not allowed to send any- dating, it's no surprise that few ofthose sto- GregCasey, a first-year chemistry student, them, only for them to laterfind out that my thing in their own words; they are restricted ries come from students. Our lives are very felt the same way. "It seems like the equiva- online hunk isn't real, so I left the experi- to choosing messages from a list of options. social and we are constantly surrounded by lent of a used car salesman. You never know ment solely to see how many singles con- The choices were inane and meaningless, other singles of the same age and with simi- what you're getting until you get it." tacted me. such as "ask me why Homer Simpson is my lar interests. For most students, online dat- I, too, was very skeptical of the entire pro- Both Lavalife and Date.ca are sites that hero" or "ask me about my hidden talent." ing simply isn't the best option. cess of online dating. However, more and anyone can join for free, but then must up- These smiles were effective in that they
GRAPHIC BY JULIE MARION 16 Student Life WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 13, 2008 - THE CORD WEEKLY Romantic and creative gift ideas
If you've been too busy to think of anything original, here are some last-minute gift ideas
ASHLEY JANG 2. Hit the road. STUDENT LIFE EDITOR If you have a car, take your sweet- heart out of town to a restaurant The big day is upon us and there is that you've never been to before. no doubtthat some hopeful roman- You'll get to escape reality for a few tics have it planned out in extreme hours and you'll get to spend extra detail. For those of you who have timetogether on the trips there and been caught up with midterms or back. just plain forgot Valentine's Day is tomorrow, it's not too late to get 3. Take a spa day. your significant other a great gift It may be too late to book an ex- that he or she will love. travagant day at the spa, but you Here are a few romantic ideas can recreate your own version at to make this a Valentine's Day to home. Take a bubble bath together remember. and take turns giving each other massages. 1. Stay in. Baby, it's cold outside, and what is 4. Skip the Valentine's Day MALLORY O'BRIEN more romantic than cuddling up section. WHAT'S IN THE BOX? - Surprise your significant other with a special night or gift that shows how you feel. on the couch with a good movie? Walking through the mall, you can Make a romantic dinner or get a see pink and red gifts left, right and chocolate fondue set with your fruit centre. that you really listen to them. ceipts and other sentimentalthings try to be creative so your partner of choice to dip. Skip the typical gift aisles and you've kept over the years into a knows you planned it just for him Put on a romantic movie and search for little gifts that are more 5. Make a scrapbook. book, commenting on what you or her. enjoy each other's company while thoughtful and are meant just for Making a little scrapbook can be enjoyed about each event. Ifall else fails, pick up some flow- sipping on some wine. Being ro- your significant other. They will quick, easy and cheap. Document ers and chocolate and hope that mantic, after all, doesn't always re- appreciate it more than a box of some of the fun things you've done Whatever you decide to do for Val- your last-minute gift attempt will quire you to spend a lot of money. chocolates and it will show them together by putting photos, re- entine's Day, make sure that you still be appreciated! A single student's guide to Valentine's If you're not a fan of the big day, spend it with family and friends or celebrate for a different reason that makes you happy
NICOLE WRAY Valentine's Day is to reflect on the STAFF WRITER people you do have in your life. Call, e-mail or make a trip to visit Whetheryou are young, in love and friends or family to remind them excited for a day of affection or are that you care about them. They dreading coping with your single may be feeling that same way you status for Valentine's Day tomor- are about Valentine's Day and will row, chances are you're not going be happy to hear a cheerful voice. to be able to avoid the day. Or, celebrate the day for an en- There are many alternative ways, tirely different reason. Did you equally optimistic and pessimistic, know that it was on February 14, to spend the day we either love or 1927 that the Toronto St. Patricks love to hate. officially became the Toronto Ma- Single's Awareness Day (SAD) is ple Leafs? Well, now you do, and also upon us. This day is sometimes you can watch the Leafs game to- celebrated on February 13 or 15, to morrow night and fully enjoy the avoid the commercialism of Valen- history of the sport. tine's Day. If those who truly dread the day While the initials of this day, aren't up for putting on a positive SAD, suggest the unloved, angry face, you probably learned by Hal- or depressed feelings that singles loween in your first year at Laurier, sometimes experience on this day, each and every holiday is a good some people celebrate the day by enough reason to go out and drink showing their friends and family with friends. that they can be very happy enjoy- Dress in black and taunt ing their single life. couples if that is what makes you Use the day to make people feel better. aware you are single and happy, a Regardless, every calendar is go- much more attractive alternative to ing to tell you it is Valentine's Day. I and bitter. But so it can be like any TRISH STOTT being single, needy ifyou desire, Instead of dwelling on your sin- other day, so celebrate in whichev- ATTENTION SINGLES - Celebrate Single's Awareness Day or the date of the naming of the Maple Leafs. gle status, a positive alternative to er way will make you smile. The Cord Weekly ■ Wednesday February 13,2008 Student Life 17 Valentine's restaurant review series: Solé
Just in time for Valentine's Day, The Cord's review series comes to a close on a high note with Solé, a romantic restaurant with great food and service
zas, entrees and vegetarian options quickly and was the perfect tem-
in prices that ranged from $5.95 to perature - justwarm enough that it $33.95. tasted freshly baked, but not so hot To start, we had the trio of brus- as to melt the gelato. chetta ($8.95), which came in three Sole offered everything you can different varieties: wild mushroom expect from a classy restaurant, and blue cheese, classic tomato but was still casual enough that the and basil and artichoke. The ap- average student wouldn't feel un- ASHLEY JANG petizer tasted great and offered a comfortable. In total, we spent just STUDENT LIFE EDITOR unique twist on traditional tomato over $80 on the food, and I think it bruschetta. was well worth it. With great food and attentive ser- After finishing, our waiter The restaurant would make a vice, there isn't much that Sole promptly returned to our table to great date venue, and they have does wrong. The restaurant offers clear our plates, bring us water and their Valentine's Day exclusive a sophisticated yet comfortable ensure that everything was okay. menu available online as well as in atmosphere that contributed to a He was very attentive and made the restaurant. great dining experience. our dining experience that much Located at 83 Erb Street West, more pleasant. the restaurant was initially a bit dif- For the main course, I went with ficult to find because it doesn't sit the sirloin cannelloni ($16.95), RESTAURANT RECAP: right on Erb, but directly off of Fa- while our photographer opted for
therDavid Bauer Drive. one of the specials of the day, a Marbles - 6.5/10 As our photographer and I steak served with potatoes and veg- A cozy little tucked-away res- stepped into the restaurant, I im- gies (32.95). taurant but the food was a bit mediately noticed that the lighting The cannelloni was served a little undercooked. was much brighter than the other differently than I've ever tasted it,
restaurants I have reviewed thus stuffed with ricotta cheese, black Salute - 8.9/10 far. The extra light made the restau- olives and toasted pine nuts, and An intimate environment com- rant seem friendlier and I was able served with an eggplant, tomato ra- bined with visually pleasing to see the food better. gout with baby spinach. dishes created a complete dining The atmosphere inside had a The combination of all the fla- experience. dinerfeel with plenty of booth seat- vours went together perfectly and
ing. The restaurant offered an easy- the pasta was cooked just enough. King Street Trio - 8.6/10 going atmosphere while still seem- The steak was also cooked to Live jazz entertainment six ing classy. perfection and was so tender that nights a weekand different levels The walls were decorated with a knife was hardly needed to cut of seating made for a great date interesting paintings that added a piece off. The presentation was restaurant. to the mood and the artists were great and the potatoes tasted excel-
listed in the menu, where it stated lent, with a hint of blue cheese. Charbries - 5.8/10 that the paintings were availablefor Very stuffed after our main The food was great but not quite purchase to customers. courses, we decided to go ahead warm enough, and the ser- After being seated very quickly, and order a dessert. It is, after all, vice definitely could have been we were served slicedbread with an part of the job. better. oil-based dip almost immediately. After hearing the dessert spe- After ordering a couple of marti- cials, we chose to split the choco- Check out www.CordWeekly. nis, the photographer and I took a late orange pecan brownie, served com for the full Valentine's res- PHOTOS BY SYDNEY HELLAND DINNER AND DRINKS - A martini went perfectly with the cannelloni. look at the menu, which consisted with vanilla gelato. taurant review series. of appetizers, salads, soups, piz- The dessert came out relatively Simple, romantic recipes Win your partner's heart with these easy-to-make Valentine's recipes
SARAH TOPPLE -onion powder are only browning the surface. STAFFWRITER -oregano Put the browned meat into a -thyme casserole dish (or other oven- Nothing says lovin' like a fabulous -basil proof dish) when all of it has been meal. Show your culinary talents -Soya sauce and/or Worcestershire browned. off this Valentine's Day with a meal sauce Fry the mushrooms until they that is so delicious you won't even -olive oil begin to soften. Place them in with Pour a bit hot water need to worry about that pile of -sliced mushrooms the meat. of in SYDNEY HELLAND aphrodisiac-infused oysters sitting the pan to loosen any bits of meat A CHEESY DESSERT - Cheesecake is easy to make and tastes great. in your freezer (eew). Directions: and spice from the pan and pour Here's a hit from my best recipe Place steak into a casserole dish or into the casserole dish. Cover and book that is sure to delight and bowl and coat with 1-2 tbsp. of ol- cook in the oven (325°) for 1-1 1/2 the base, which the cake sits on) or spark the appetite of any sweetie, ive oil. Add the spices until it smells hours. Serve with salad and pota- For the filling a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate. Bake Platonic friend, life-mate or "it's good to you, and add no more than toes (baked are easiest!) -3 (8oz.) blocks of cream cheese at 325 degrees for 10 minutes. Beat cream cheese and un- complicated" out there. 1 tsp. of the sauces. (softened) sugar Stir with a fork until all the meat New York Cheesecake -3/4 cups of sugar til smooth. Add eggs one at a time, until Stir Steak Tips is coated and cover. Let the meat beating just blended. in marinate for anywhere from one Ingredients: Directions: vanilla and pour batter onto the and melted Ingredients: hour to all day. For the crust Mix the graham crumbs crust. at for 45-50 minutes. -1 package of stir-fry beef (thinly Place the meat in a frying pan -1 c. graham cracker crumbs butter. Press with your hands into Bake 350° the of a 9-inch springform Cool completely before serving sliced steak). You may also buy a and turn the pieces just until all -3 tbsp. butter (melted) bottom (you can pick them up cheap, and top with fruit, pie filling or ice small steak and cut ityourself, sides of the meat are brown. You -3 eggs pan out sauces ■garlic (fresh or powdered) are not trying to cook the meat; you -1 tsp. vanilla they have sides that spring from cream and enjoy! 18 StudentLife WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 13, 2008 > THE CORD WEEKLY Student business grows on its own student unable to work conjunction C-Spot to fill ink Laurier with the I in j
HEATHER GIES chael is unable to advertise his the summer or after his graduation, CORD STUDENT LIFE service on campus. He has also ap- there was no detail as to how he proached the Centre Spot with his was going to provide that particu- Since the fall of 2006, second-year business, but to no avail. lar service," states Dawson. "So we business student and entrepreneur "Over the past year, 1 went to the did have some concerns with con- ChristopherCarmichael has owned C-Spot," says Carmichael, "and I sistent business flow through those and operated his own ink cartridge tried to get them to merge with me particular times." heather gies refilling business, and, over the past so that I would do the refills." Not Unable to work in conjunction FILL IT UP - Carmichael does his ink filling at home, close to campus. year and a half, he has seen consid- only would this expand business, with the C-Spot, Carmichael has erable success. it would also allow Carmichael the been forced to settle for being their Carmichael started his business, opportunity for on-campus pro- competition. "My price is $15 a car- ages cartridge refill businesses at encountered at other ink cartridge Campus Ink, at the beginning of motion. However, his proposal was tridge, or less if you can find a bet- McGill, Brock, St. Francis Xavier, companies, and Carmichael argues his first year at Laurier, working declined. ter price," states Carmichael. "I will and other universities. that, as employees, they are less out of his residence. The business Sue Dawson, retail sales man- beat any price by 10percent." Furthermore, Carmichael has be- likely to be concerned with com- is now located at his house only a ager for WLUSU, explains that "we Unlike other locations that have come involved with kiva.org, a pro- plete satisfaction. short distance from campus, and already do have an existing ser- a number of overhead costs to ac- gram that facilitates entrepreneur- "Now that I am running my own not only has he expanded his cli- vice and an established relation- count for, Carmichael notes that his ial growth in developing countries business, I make sure that every entele greatly, he is also managing ship with an external business and only expense is the ink itself, and by providing loans free of interest. single [cartridge] is working," says a franchise, with students on other we've had very good success with therefore, he is able to maintain the Carmichael explains that for every Carmichael. "And if it isn't, then I campuses following his business that particular company... so at this lowest prices. ink cartridge he fills, he is "lending am always accountablefor it." With model. point in time, we weren't seeking to The prohibition to advertise on out one dollar to a business in a de- a private business, his reputation is Despite efforts to become better negotiate with someone else." campus is a substantial barrier veloping country." Thus far, he has constantly at stake, as both positive known among the students, Car- The proposal was reviewed with for Carmichael in expanding his completed 657 refills. and negative opinions have the po- michael says he has experienced a the general manager and last year's clientele, and although he has a Carmichael also contributed tentialto spread exponentially. lack of support from the university. student's union president. Accord- Facebook group and a website for cartridges to the auction that took Carmichael has many plans for Carmichael feels that, although ing to Dawson, concerns regarding the business, he relies primarily on place during 0-Week, a donation the future of his business. He sus- Laurier strives to maintain a high- turnaround time of the cartridges word ofmouth for promotion. to Shinerama that he estimates at pects that next year he will be hir- profile business program, the uni- and theability to do tonerrefills also Carmichael's operation has be- more than $1000. ing ink cartridge refill employees so versity contradicts itself by failing contributed to the final decision. come successful enough for him to He understands that some peo- he can direct his focus elsewhere in to be more accommodating to stu- "Although in his proposal he start a franchise that students from ple may be skeptical about trusting business development. dent entrepreneurs like him. guaranteed that we would have no other universities and colleges are a student with their refills. How- For further information regard- Due to WLUSU policy, Carmi- problems with service either over able to buy into. He currently man- ever, students are also likely to be ing Carmichael's ink cartridge re- Last-minute activities for your reading week If you don't have any plans for Reading Week yet, it's not too late to plan a little getaway with friends or spice things up at home
ASHLEY JANG chalet for a couple of nights at Blue the heat in your house or apart- Niagara Falls and spend the day can get a better idea of where you STUDENT LIFE EDITOR Mountain or Horseshoe Valley. ment and serve pina coladas and shopping and visiting popular sites. would like to go. While some resorts can be pricey, Coronas. Day trips can be a lot of fun, and With reading week just a few days you can save a lot of money if you You can get everyone to wear you'll still feel as if you got away 5. Just relax. away, campus is abuzz with stu- get a group of people together so their finest beachwear and, if you from reality for a little bit. Take the opportunity to get a little dents excitedly talking about their that you can split the cost. have a big living room, you can set rest and relaxation. Spend some plans. For those of you who don't You can spend the day skiing or up a game of "beach" volleyball. 4. Take a last-minute trip. time with your family and friends, have the luxury of going down snowboarding and come back to This way you can pretend you're If you have the money to go away, catch up on some reading, but south, that doesn't mean that your the chalet to warm up by the fire- far away from all the snow for one visit www.redtag.ca or www.sell- mostly just relax and catch up on week will suck. Here are a few ideas place with friends. night. offvacations.com to find trips that that sleep you've been missing for for enjoying the week without the have been reduced substantially in the last few weeks ofmidterms. sand and the sun. 2. Bring thebeach to you. 3. Take a road trip. price. By the time you come back for Invite the friends who are still If you have a car, then gather up a They usually have all-inclusive classes, you'll feel much more 1.Hit the slopes. around over to your place for a few of your closest friends and go packages and you can see how refreshed and ready to take on the Have a mini getaway and stay at a beach-themed party. Crank up on a road trip. Drive to Toronto or many stars the hotels have, so you last few weeks of school.
or go to y
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*one time $10 activation fee - Check website for complete terms & conditions. The Cord Weekly ■ Wednesday February 13,2008 19
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WE HAVE THE CAREERS, 112. IsMP YOU HAVE THE OPPORTUNITIES. f'T/i . The Canadian Forces offer you over 100 full- and part-time job opportunities in if .• or the Forces offer "^S^lsis stimulating Whether close to home abroad, you: ;
,~.* :-'M 20 Opinion WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 13, 2008 ■ THE CORD WEEKIY Board decision irresponsible
An election period full of poor decisions culminated with the announce- ment ofa run-off election last night. Now, this outright debaclemay not be over until Feburary 28. During an in camera Board ofDirectors meeting in which President Dan Allison, Chief Returning Officer Craig Stover and WLUSU staff member MattPark were present, the Board made the decision to hold another elec- tion betweenremaining candidates Ross Fraser and Colin LeFevre. For a number of reasons, this decision is flawed and should seriously call into question the faith that Laurier students have placed in their elect- ed officials. This decision should never have been made by this Board, as the vast majority ofits members were on presidential candidates' campaign teams and, thus, completely biased. Regardless of what the decision was it should have been made before ballots were counted, particularly because people privy to the results were present in the closed-door meeting. While students have no reason to suspect that those with knowledge of theresults played an influentialrole in reaching the decision made, we will also never know that they didn't. It is also extremely problematic that the only people whose conflict of interest was recognized during the in camera meeting was that of the members of LeFevre's campaign team. No members known to support other presidential candidates were forced to abstain from voting. This catastrophe, for anyone with an ounce of hindsight, was hugely predictable. WLUSU elections have been rife with problems for years and the shift to policy governance has donenothing but compound them. This year's Board is badly stained by their poor handling of the incident and a lack of competence overall. Directors have often remained quiet during periods of student concern and some have commented that more training would have been useful. Last a director asked a member of the gallery to phrase a motion night, JULIE MARION for him during the briefperiod of last night's meeting that was open to the public, aptly demonstrating this board's inability to perform its function. The only good decision made surrounding this election was to disqualify Brian Punambolam - a difficult and unpopular decision, its merit nearly Valentine's Day pointless lost because ofthe run-offelection. While it's unfortunate that students who voted for Punambolam lost their vote because of the disqualification, the decision made almost cer- Appreciate your friends instead of justanother commercialized holiday tainly guarantees that the resulting race will be unfair. Regardless of who wins the presidential election, he will be viewed as illegitimate. percent of Americans expected you. Furthermore, it was obvious during the original campaign period that to dine out with their sweetheart. Take this day and appreciate all there was conflict between LeFevre and Punambolam. Now that Punam- Please, do not contribute to this the people you have in your life bolam has been removed from the race, his supporters will no doubt at- madness; I dare you. who are there for you day in and tempt to keep LeFevre out of power. LAUREN MILLET Every year when this dreadful day out, when relationships suc- SPORTS EDITOR So far, this election has been disastrous and, no matter the outcome, it day rolls around, those among us ceed and fail, and who pick you will remain that way. There's no saving it. who are single loathe their friends up when you fall down. The silver lining comes as the lesson that something must be done. Poli- Flowers, chocolates, hearts, Cu- who are in relationships and sulk Tell them you love them. This cies must be created oudining the need for Board members to remain im- pid. Every year when February around all day feeling depressed, way, everyone is included in the partial during the campaign period, for how disqualifications will be han- rolls around, stores bring in a wishing for Cupid to shoot an ar- love giving, which is how it should dled and to prevent last-minute modification of election-related policy, I multitude of these items so suck- row in their direction. work to begin with. among countless other issues. ers like you and I will spend more Heck, some people might even If you're still bitter about your
A run-off vote in this case was completely inappropriate - it guarantees money. jump Cupid from behind and steal friend who received flowers, do an unfair election where past policy did not even require or suggest a re- It's yet another excuse to pro- an arrow just to throw at the next something for yourself this Valen- electtion ought to take place. mote consumerism. As if Christ- guy they see. Seriously, wake up! tine's Day. Throw a party, make it Even more concerning is that the Board of Directors has issued no ex- mas isn't enough anymore, we You just saved yourself $50 and singles only, and have a good time planation as to why re-election was necessary. The decision has become need another day less than two the embarrassment of taking part making fun of things you can do another WLUSU decision shrouded in secrecy. months later to gouge out our in thisridiculous day. but your attached friends can't. It is a sad day for student democracy at WLU. pockets and buy useless items Having not been that will either die two days later single for many a Valen- Instead of pining over that These unsigned editorials were agreed upon by at least two-thirds o/The or make us fat. tine's Day I still plan to Cord'5 editorial board and do not necessarily reflect the views ofThe Cord's Altogether, the day is really CUTE GUY IN YOUR HISTORY boycott the stupid, un- "holiday." The volunteers, staff or WLUSP rather poindess, and simply un- CLASS WHO SMILED AT YOU called for necessary. It has become yet an- day shouldn't even be other commercial grab. Lovers do LAST WEEK, TURN TO YOUR referred to as a holiday; Weekly not need set to nobody it off work The Cord a specific day aside FRIENDS AND TELL THEM HOW gets remind them to say "I love you." and I still have to go to Editorial Board 2007-2008 MUCH THEY MEAN TO YOU. This should come as second class. Editor-in-Chief Special Projects Editor Graphics Editor nature, or not, out have to Mike Brown Joe Turcotte Julie Marion if get the hell of Until I don't [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] the relationship. If you're not yet Go out and use that money to hand in a midterm or sit through (519) 884-0710 ext. 3563 Features Editor Online Editor at this point, then waitfor the op- get drunk with your friends. After three-hour lectures on this silly Editors David Shore Dan Belgue News moment, not when a cal- what do on a to continue my hatred Laura Carlson [email protected] [email protected] portune all, else is there to day, I plan [email protected] endar tells you it's the "right" day. Thursday night? towards February 14. Relation- Student Life Editor Photography Managers the Dan Polischuk Ashley Jang Sydney Helland This year, NBC predicts con- Friends are often overlooked, ships are fine; I just don't think [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] sumers United when to ex- (519) 884 0710 ext. 3564 in the States alone and in my opinion, sometimes world needs to be told Arts & Entertainment Editor Greg McKenzie are expected to spend about $13.7 taken for granted. After all, they press feelings. Come on, we're not Sports Editor Paul Alviz [email protected] Lauren Millet [email protected] billion, up 22 percent from five are the ones who get pushed aside robots in a Will Smith movie. [email protected] Print Production Manager bottle of Opinion Editor Alex Hayter years ago. Valentine's Day rev- so you can go hang out with your But for now, there's a International Editor Jeremy Tremblay [email protected] enues come in third behind only boyfriend/girlfriend. So instead of cold Chardonnay sitting in my Waleed Hafeez [email protected] [email protected] Christmas and back-to-school pining over that cute guy in your fridge, and it's calling my name. seasons. history class who smiled at you And I do love wine. Weekly is published by Wilfrid Laurier University Student Publications. The Cord For restaurants, this day is sec- last week, turn to your friends, and Contact: Keren Gottfried, 75 University Ave. W, Waterloo, ON N2L 3C5 ond only to Mother's Day with 35 tell them how much they mean to letters@cordweekly. com The Cord Weekly ■ Wednesday February 13,2008 Opinion 21 Education needs tofocus on needed skills
childhood and, therefore, the fam- ily environment and community. Many families living in low-in- KIMBERLY come households can easily devel- ELWORTHY op their own children's perception UNDER THE RADAR of the world of one that is always financially struggling. They can Especially in Canada it is easy to come to believe this is the standard become frustrated at the state of lifestyle when really they are dam- the world. As one of the most so- aging any security they will have in cially and economically their own future for their family. prosper- SYDNEY HELLAND ous nations the world, it makes The issue of low-income house- in BIG BUDGET - Many Canadian students are leaving of university without life-oriented mathematical skills. little sense that some children can holds is not limited to the depriva- live in poverty or that adults can be tion of the most basic shelter and homeless. nutrition. Many disorders can re- agement, all of these social issues smaller publicly traded companies called - all of this totally useless to Canada is a capitalist society, sult from living with a low income that we oftenlook past when under- will allow the business and your a drop-out or a person entering the which means that everyone has the or financially strained environment standing poverty continue through investments to hopefully grow at a workforce after high school or even right to pursue business. With that such as depression, chronic stress generation to generation. However, faster pace. a university student who will never comes the ideology that anyone, and anxiety among other things. Canadian society isn't the only Supporting the local economy study any ofthese specific fields. no matter what background, can These problems often lead to un- component of Canada that is being will bring more jobs and encourage Yet we all will have to deal with become wealthy. And so it follows employment, which only continues affected by financial ignorance. further business, enhancing the money. We will all have to pay bills, in Canada thatwe believe that each the cycle of poverty. Such a burden Even the Canadian economy Canadian economy. understand credit and manage one of us will succeed and those can also contribute to the collapse suffers from Canadians who are In a system that allows for eco- money for our entire lives. who don't are depraved. of marriages and family units, re- uninformed about money and es- nomic prosperity, the crucial prob- The one thing life is guaranteed However, with almost two million sulting in single family homes fur- pecially investing. The majority of lem is that the actual education to throw at us is something we have
Canadians currently unemployed thering the financial load - one Canadians invest in safe, low-risk needed for success is not covered no direction or education to assist and far more underemployed ac- typically placed on mothers. stocks for their retirement that usu- in our public education institu- our future choices in life. cording to Statistics Canada, this is Families with financial burdens, ally boost government and large tions. Habits and ideologies about The government needs to in- an unfair judgement. How have so the study also found, give less sup- Canadian companies as well as for- finances must be taught early on in stall life-oriented mathematical many people been left behind in a port to the advancement of the eign and U.S markets. life to understand the consequenc- skills into its curriculum as this will system that allows for everyone to education of their children and If we were all more educated es of debt and the advantages of be the most effective way to stop live comfortably? don't hold as high standards for the about investing, it would bring saving or investing money. poverty in its tracks. A study by The Canadian Council future of their children as parents more money to the small Canadian We fill a decade learning how on Social Development found the from more affluent backgrounds. companies that require a little bit to play the clarinet, or solving the beginning step for financial under- Since no one has stepped in to more effort and risk. square root of i or memorizing standing is heavily based on one's stop the cycle of money misman- Responsibly investing in these what the sections of the brain are [email protected] Letters to the Editor
Racism isn't a fingers over trivial matters, "grave Second Lieutenant Mackness, who which reinforce and propagate opportunities for anyone other misunderstandings" and quotes explained the political position of its fallacious justifications is what than weapons manufacturers and campaign tool obviously taken out of context, we soldiers by stating, "We're profes- should be expected of our campus colonialist sympathizers. Bombs belittle the struggles that we our- sionals; this is our job. We have to newspaper. are made to destroy, not build. One WLUSU's open forum is notorious selves have faced throughout life. be able to separate our opinions might be too optimistic in thinking for exposing the worst in candi- We've made monumental strides from our work." The adoption of - Mark Ciesluk that those trained at an academic dates as they try to show why they toward recognizing equality in re- this point of view ensures that the institution would have developed deserve students showering them cent decades but "playing the race fears expressed in the first state- the analytical skills to understand with endorsements and ultimately card" only sets us back genera- ment are one step closer to reality Helping in this. It is unfortunate that well votes. This year, the candidate in tions. It creates conflict where none than we might like to admit. Afghanstan? meaning people continue to buy question did not accuse his op- should exist and blinds the popula- Ifwe wished to use high-minded the argument that we are there to posing candidate of being racist, tion to the real occurrences of this ideals as the justification for the use help. Just like Alexander the Great, notion that our of the British, and the we are simply his campaign team ... that most ugly of human prejudice. If, in oflethal force in the occupation of a The occupation Soviets, makes it okay, right? In the follow- fact, racism had infected the elec- foreign country, and ifwe expected Afghanistan is being done to help there to dominate and exploit the ing days, we heard it was a simple tion then by all means complain, our government to actually uphold people, as is suggested in the Cord region. They all failed to subjugate misunderstanding and a historical but please be sure that it has hap- these ideals, we would be educat- feature of lan 30th, is not only mis- the populous. We are on the same reference was taken out of context, pened and is not simply used as a ing and empowering every mem- guided, it is just plain wrong. If this track. If we actually want to help case closed I suppose. Here's my desperate attempt to discredit an- ber of our active forces in order to were the case, our invasion would people we must change our tactics problem with it: Racism is far from other candidate. It's time we realize prepare them specifically to bring not have occurred with high-pow- and invest as much, if not more, in
dead in this country and indeed racism isn't a campaign tool but a their opinions - moral and other- ered assault rifles. Rather, it would peace as we do in war. throughout the world. It fuels our serious matter that should not be wise - to their job, every day of the have been done through dialogue - Jacob Pries current "War on Terror',' it impos- thrown around casually. year. Instead, a country which au- and investments in education, mi- Anti-War @ Laurier es a glass ceiling in the corporate dibly hums at times with the shared cro-loans and health services. We are world, it labels areas as "bad neigh- - Asif Bacchus myth of the 'peacekeeper' pro- would be making sure people soldiers not extreme poverty and Letters Policy: bourhoods" - in fact, it invades and duces which baldly refuse living in has clean We be and pervades almost every aspect of to question the broader reason- that everyone water. All letters to the editor must signed Challenge Afghan submitted with the author's name, student current wouldbe increasing our official de- our society, yet we quietly assume ings behind their military identification number, and telephone number. it is a relic from The truly occupation engagement. velopment assistance to the 0.7% of Letters must be received by 12:00 pm (noon) years past. Monday viaemail to [email protected] The to or- our GDP that we promised. Yet we sad part of this particular allega- willingness challenge or through our website at www.cordweekly. refuse. even try. com. Letters must not exceed 350 words. tion is that it came from two people January 30th's featured article ders, deny authority and act in ac- We do not Rather stan- than trying to build and sustain a that are members ofvisible minori- ("Armed Scholars: GI Hawks") ar- cord with a higher personal The Cord reserves the right to edit any letter for that members of the Canadi- dard is what should be expected culture ofpeace, we aid oppression brevity and clarity. The Cord reserves the right ties. I too am a member of a visible gued to rejectany letter, in whole or in part. The Cord on fostering a culture of minority, a reality that I've faced an reserves are not "the mindlessly of individuals engaged in active all sides by reserves the right to not publish material that that The willingness to chal- war. We seem to have forgotten that is deemed to be libelous or in contravention my entire life and have learned to obedient stereotypical soldiers service. with the Cord's Code of Ethics or journalistic not build schools, that deal with. However, when we, the one mightexpect." Mere paragraphs lenge the immoral occupation of bullets do standards. the grenades do not create economic "victims" of racism, start pointing later appeared an interview with a Afghanistan and mechanisms 22 Opinion WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 13, 2008 i THE CORD WEEKLY Yeah, I like country
Don't be ashamed: country music doesn't deserve a taboo reputation
the except sour cream and onion. Just to rest on what else but music I EARNED MY UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE, like with country music, it has been itself. an exception in tastes. The more different something AMELIA The other day I asked myself why may be, the more criticism it will NOW, I WANT LOCKHART I don't like sour cream and onion face. Country musicians are aware LEFT TO WRITE chips. Since I couldn't come to of the stereotypes they face. They a logical answer other than "just even explore them and re-enact A REWARDING Your musical taste is a matter of 112 because I don't" I gave them a try. them by way of reclaiming the personal opinion. With numer- Turns out I really like sour cream stereotypes. ous genres of music on the scene : and onion chips. This can be seen in Gretchen CAREER* it seems musical taste has become : It is completely different if a Wilson's hit "Redneck Woman" more accepting. However, there: person has a justifiable dislike for and Jason Aldean's "Hicktown" Of *not just a job still remains one genre left far on i a genre such as country music. Af- course, an unknowing, naive lis- the outside. ter all, your taste in music is com- tener could hear just one of these one year, Humber postgraduate When asked "what type of music : pletely your own and who is to say songs and think that they are right In less than help you launch your career in: do you listen to?" an always-too- it's right or wrong? However, falling in the stereotypes they hold. programs will typical response is "everything but t naively to stereotypes within that In a way, country music speaks • Human Resources country." What is it about countryr makeup of tastes is wrong. to the listener as through its linear • International Project Management that makes it the taboo genre? Country music contains more narratives have a storyfor everyone. • International Marketing There is a common misconcep- than just the stereotypes it has, From Alan Jackson's "Where were • Marketing Management tion about country music that gives > though it does have key aspects you (when the world stopped turn- • Public Administration ' a song about the profound it such a bad reputation: every that set it apart as a genre. These ing)" Building on your university degree, Humber's country song is a sob story about a i would include the vocal twang, impact of 9/11 to something more postgraduate programs offer a concentrated hillbilly whose girl left him, pickup i prevalence of the acoustic or steel light such as Terri Clark's "Dirty curriculum, career-focused courses and practical broke down, dog died, or so the : guitar, a linear story line and - of Girl',' about a girl who isn't afraid to field placements. You'll gain the real-world experience story goes. course - the cowboy hat. get a little mud on her, country mu- and skills that employers value most. Another misconception is that : Country music is the target of sic displays all the admirable traits
if you listen to country music you i such discrimination because it in mankind. Get the career you want -apply now. automatically become a hick. This ; is so different and separate from Instead of computer-enhanced is the more covert of the stereo- other genres of music. While other catchy tunes and seductive moves, types. Secretly, I think most people i genres bleed into mainstream mu- country music brings back the im- are closet country fans. But, since : sic, country, with the exception of portance oflyrical works and musi- they've spent a good portion of: a few artists, has remained its own cal talents. time ridiculing and resisting the : non-conformist group, Since it is so different and has so genre, now would be a bad time to i Country music sidesteps the rule many negative stereotypes chalked come out. that to be a talented vocalist and up against it, country music is met
It explains the popularity of: musician, you must also be beau- with dislike from many. Next time country bars. Some of the people tiful. Take, for example, The Ras- you get ready to head over to a that go love country music, and the cal Flatts. Instead, beauty is just an country bar, or even hear a country others pretend to hate it, yet go re- added bonus, as it should be. song playing, instead of automati- gardless, making excuses such as This is because most country cally hating it, think of why and if "the music is a better reason to get musicians aren't photographed you can't think of a real reason, drunk." Sure, that's believable. daily by paparazzi waiting in their don't feel bad. Some hate country music just bushes. Without the pressures of It's nothing to be ashamed of. to hate something. I've liked ev- being in the public eye all the time, ery type of potato chip all my life it allows the importance of music [email protected] | Tuition Sweepstakes Find an apartment now for next year and be eligible to win your tuition. Grand prize is a $5000 tuition prize 'fID pack. Secondary prize is an iPod Nano. -jjM
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CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
WILD WILD WEST - Jason Aldean tries his hardest not to look like a stereotypical country singer-songwriter. The Cord Weekly ■ Wednesday February 13,2008 Opinion 23 Campus Pictorial
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SYDNEY HELLAND For program information, email: THEY'RE JUST "SLEEPING"- Fish in a mannequin aquarium in the window of the Bookstore lie lifeless. [email protected] History should respect dead Past generations deserve respect similar to the recent UN declaration that outlines the current population's responsibility to future generations http://educatiori.sheridaninstitute.ca upon the dignity of dead persons." dead" or "defamation of the dead." The dead have a dignity all civilized A fine balance must exist be- countries must observe. tween the public's right to know According to Dr. Antoon De details about such crimes against DON MORGENSON Baets of University of Groningen humanity while preserving the ACADEMIC PERSPECTIVE in the Netherlands, such responsi- privacy and reputation of the dead
GRADUATE STUDIES IN bilities must include such codified - and historians, with their code of Demographers estimate that, from actions as preserving the physical professional ethics can do just that. POLITICAL SCIENCE the beginning of human time, some integrity of the dead and honoring Such a truth-seeking "Historian 100 billion people have been born them with last rites, whatever form Laureate," ostensibly free of politi- The Windsor Advantage and ofthese 6 billion are alive today their culture/faith may dictate and cal bias or prejudice, can be select- and 94 billion are dead. Thankfully, a decent burial. ed. As we have "poet laureates," so we have the Universal Declaration Certain duties concerning per- we have historians who can tell the The Degrees You Want ofHuman Rights to protect the lives sonality and identity must also be whole story, with tact and grace.
- Our MA degree can be completed in one year and sustain the dignity of the six pursued, such as careful identifi- In one of his fine science fiction
- We offer a combined MA degree with a Master billion yet living. cation of their bodies, recording novels, Robert Heinlein develops of Public Policy at the University of Michigan at But to my knowledge, there ex- names, addresses and clan or tribal what he calls "True Witnesses": declaration of scribes who of Dearborn. Complete two masters degrees in two ists no comparable affiliations, while demonstrating are incapable speak- rights for those many victims of sensitivity to privacy issues and ing anything but the truth. "Histo- years from two countries! " - •■ tiftir crimes against humanity. And be- disclosure ofpersonal data. rian Laureates" would be similar to World Class Research cause there are no codified state- Finally, Prof. De Baets argues Heinlein's "True Witnesses."
- You will study with outstanding scholars ments ofrights for those victimized most importantly that we must con- Professor Ernest May of Harvard
- The department is home to research centres in Middle dead, whole nations feel little or no tinue to safeguard their heritage, University wrote in response to the East Studies and Cross-Border Transportation Studies obligation toward those dead. involving for example the right to published "9/11 Commission Re- So while we commemorate victims "... this was dedicated - Former Canadian Ambassador Michael Bell, one of applaud UNESCO's of human port": report abuses well as continu- a concern Canada's foremost experts on the Middle East, holds recently released "Declaration on rights as to the idea that genuine the responsibilities of the present ing the struggle to "know and re- for communicating an accurate pic- a research chair within the department generations towards future genera- veal the truth" about such heinous ture of ourreality to future genera- Scholarships tions" perhaps the time has come crimes. South Africa's Truth and tions may allow us to transcend the
- We aim to fund every full-time MA student to draft a new set of proposals out- Reconciliation Commission spoke passions of the moment.... In these
- Our financial support matches or is higher than lining our responsibilities to past to memory and to history regard- perilous times, there will surely be that available at other Canadian universities generations, many of whom have ing these rights, which are codified other events that will require the been victims of atrocities. in the universal declaration of the principles of historiography allied Great Career Prospects Anthropologists studying every right to freedom ofinformation and to the resources of government, so - Our graduates work in federal, provincial and form of civilization find in all cases expression. that urgency will sometimes be- municipal governments, the diplomatic service, a consensus urging respect for the Such new responsibilities fall come the friend of truth." journalism, and law dead allowing them to retain some heavily on the shoulders of contem- With Historian Laureates or
- The skills our MA provides will assist you in securing sense of dignity. porary historians, who must study "friends of truth,"the dead can a place in a PhD program One of the singular motives all the dead of history - the known, continue to have a voice and call behind the establishment of the the unknown, the "disappeared." us to courage, from the misty ter- International Criminal Court has Each nation should ask formal rains of the past, often a horrific University been the posthumous restorative historians to select a thoroughly past. Only in these ways can we as- of Windsor status of victims of large scale independent "Historian Laureate" sure the living that the dead, some crimes against humanity, human- who would study honestly and of whom have died under tortuous thinking forward rights abuses, and victims of "death sensitively information about the circumstances, are not required to For more information visit squads." The court also hopes to country's dead. Assisting them are die twice. http://www.uwindsor.ca/units/polsci/political.nsf punish those who mutilate the worldwide laws governing such dead, as well as those who deny a historical records, provisions for decentburial to victims of"outrages "protection of the memory of the [email protected] 24 Opinion WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 13,2008 > THE CORD WEEKLY
Consumerism gfijSglH ON-CAMPUS JA. CHIROPRACTOR T j\_fj misplaced 1 Covered by WLU Health Plan *;• id this space and not be bombarded E398889 WLU health services or ushered into a zone of commer- 884-0710 EXT. 3146 cial spending. There are many legit- imate (in this sense, progressive or LEN BALL culturally related) kiosks that serve THE UPSIDE OF DOWN to better educate studentsand staff about university, local and global For a student attending an institu- matters. But many of these are ob- tion of higher learning, there are scured through the proliferation particular prerequisites that come of mall-like vendors attempting to with that con- oftheir ■ LAURIER territory, specifically relieve students disposable cerning space. income. It can be presumed that cam- None of this is possible without pus spaces will be used to create official sanctioning from the uni- comfortable work areas, multiple versity, demonstrating that admin- llppy % ■ I First-Year Honours on-campus restaurant choices, istrative mediation is an essential and clean and campus component to all recog- attractive officially rts c ' ence students grounds. Aside from this, it can be nized activities occurring within 11 sure what take? acknowledged that as an educa- the university environment. Not career path to tional facility, the university is also These vendors no doubt provide Consider applying to Laurier Co-op. a source of capital, both in the in- an influx ofcapital into the univer- tellectual and monetary sense. sity, but at the cost ofcompromising °* 0/° stuclents in Arts Co-op and Science what some might consider a space yBfW Co-op obtained employment last summer. In keeping with the tradition of uniquely free from • Participants gain practical experience AN ACADEMIC INSTITUTION, THAT OF standard commer- cial practices. 9b before graduation. A LOCUS OF EXCLUSIVE INTELLECTUAL Academic insti- y FREEDOM, SUCH SPACE SHOULD NOT tutions were not ? t ■ We invite you to attend an information session to formed under the BE RESERVED FOR THE CONTINUATION what same premises as HBf learn more about the Co-op Option, including OF PUNCTUATED CAPITALIST commercial malls, bH types of positions are typically available and how to PRODUCTION. and therefore should not rep- resent them. This As a reflection of late capitalism, transformation of free space into Information sessions at the Centre for Co-operative the university is not free from the commercial space, however, is not Education and Career Development (CC-201) influences of culture as an indus- the only issue. try, and subsequently must provide The products, services or infor- • Monday, March 3, 2008, I p.m. excellent standards of education mation available at these kiosks 2:00-1:00 while also turning a profit. needs to be examined. Providing • Tuesday, March 4, 2008, 9:00-1 0:00a.m. The irony with such a space is that a wide range of possible vendors conflicting models of theory and and promoters at first strongly application are taught in tandem to suggests an attempt to offer varied one another. The faculty ofbusiness representation, yet observation of and facutly of arts do not generally the Concourse reveals that these subscribe to the same political or choices are not always symbolically business models, and as such, can neutral. have contrasting views on adminis- University education in business, trative and other focus Citi z< msl ip policy litigation. arts or any major is or- Jn 1 Both must exist, however, in the ganized direcdy against the notion same environment and work con- of "following" It is an environment gruously in facilitating space to pro- designed with the individual devel- Conference duce industrious student-citizens opment ofthe student in mind and equipped to adapt and integrate should provide a space that proud- into the cultural nexus ofCanadian ly boasts a significant reduction in commerce. the dogmas of particular religious The Wilfrid Laurier Global Citizenship Conference is an exciting and multi-faceted event that offers students, academics and community members a forum for The Concourse represents the or social practices. engagement in local, national and international issues, centre of Laurier's university en- Multicultural, multiracial and including the environment, trade and conflict. vironment. It is the nadir point multidisciplinary are just a few from which all other areas can be of the words that should be envi- 7 panel discussions, 3 lectures, 20 workshops reached, and, as such, boasts argu- sioned when considering the con- ably the busiest pedestrian traffic. stitution of a university education; Featuring keynotes from: From an economic standpoint, consumerist, coercive, reductive this would be the ideal place to in- and exploitative are not. Gen. Romeo Dallaire and Dr. Samantha Nutt stall or rent kiosks to independent The Concourse can be used in far vendors in order to generate ad- more progressive and useful ways ditional revenue, as more people than simply to sell typical products. equal potential for more spend- In order to ensure that the Laurier ing. A business arrangement would (or any other institution) environ- be necessary, as these vendors ment remains a space that holds would have to pay the university student interests in mind, students Tickets are on sale now at the Bookstore! in some form - for example, in fu- themselves must be aware of how Dallaire Event Only Conference & Dallaire Event ture advertising or a fee set by the particular administrative practices Presented by Laurier International &GCC Students Until February 15 $20 administration. work, and actively adjudicate such Students $5 Students After February 15 $30 In keeping with the tradition of practices. General $ 15 Public General Public $ 40 an academic institution, that of a Regardless of what discipline locus of exclusive intellectual free- a student is in, the availability of EARLY BIRD SPECIAL ENDS THIS FRIDAY! dom, such space should not be useful space should be a concern reserved for the continuation of if used for purposes that do not re- GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY! punctuated capitalist production. flect an academic position. Visit www.gcdaurier.org for more information Students should have the oppor- Be engaged, be empowered, be proactive tunity to walk unimpeded through [email protected] Jt Weekly ■ Wednesday February 13,2008 The Cord Opinion . 25
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Laurier wants your feedback! The National Survey of Student Engagement (or "NSSE")
During the week ofFebruary 4, first-year and upper-year Laurier students IbPI \ l-Jji |k were sent an email invitation to participate in the National Survey of
This is the second time Laurier, as well as all other Ontario universities, will be participating in jc^agfral this important survey initiative. The survey provides university administration with valuable information about what you think of your experience here in such areas as curriculum and campus life. It also plays a role in government's accountability measures for improving post-secondary
If you've already completed the survey, thank you! If you received an email about the survey, Jf9Hy|* _wL j| but haven't yet completed it, there's still time. And if you've deleted the invitation, reminders ifl will be going out, so you can still take advantage of the opportunity to share your opinion! *%|HL
" The survey emails are being sent to your Laurier email account -if you don't check this account \\ "T regularly, please do so to see if you've received the invitation. mbcommmmsub/b' r IS HIRING W IT kHfl managersand vW 1LI A 1 W SENIOR STAFF dJEEllpublications" FOR MAY 2008
THE CORD WEEKLY Section Editors and Senior Staff applications Print Production Manager are available in the WLUSP (salaried position) office, located on the bottom floor of at Information Technology Manager MacDonald House Residence for students (honourarium position) the Waterloo campus.
Distribution Manager Applications due Feb 29th at noon in the (salaried position) WLUSP office. Corporate Secretary (honourarium position) Interviews dates to be announced. KEYSTONE Any questions should be directed to Greg Sacks at Editor-in-Chief (salaried position) [email protected] Applications available Feb 14th The Cord Weekly ■ Wednesday February 13,2008 A&E 27 Hot Chip makes not as hot album Electronic performers and music mixers Hot Chip return with a record that isn't as strong as their last, but is still worth a listen
GEETHA THURAIRAJAH 2006, placed the group at the fore- structed beats suitedfor the clubs. the group's wandering interests ingly strong introduction, pushing
STAFF WRITER front ofthe electronic revival. Songs With The Warning, Hot Chip with R&B contained - Made in the the boundaries of their experimen- like "The Warning" and "So Glad to succeeded at sampling an array Dark failed to do. With Made in the tation and remaining true to the Mainstream electro-pop experi- See You" were fresh, thoughtful and of sounds by limiting their impact Dark, the mix of dance, disco, R&B, ways of electronic pop-rock. mentation is at its fullest with Hot infused with emotion - attributes on the music and using them to dancehall and rock are throwninto In essence, this uncoordinated Chip's new album, Made in the which were explored less by fel- specifically vivificate their electro their classic electronic sound, over- mix ofgenres has consequently led
Dark. While the album is a huge low electro-pop delegates - while sound. The jazz/R&B undertone powering the music and creating a to an album with a water-and-oil step forward creatively, it stands to "Careful" and "Over and Over" of "Look After Me" was natural disarrayed arrangement of sounds lack of consistency. But the group discredit the group's talent by offer- remained sincere to the more au- and effortlessly integrated, with disengaging to the listener. does deserve attention for a hand- ing listeners a mash of sounds un- thentic electronic roots. no over-exaggeration of genre ex- While these new sounds added to ful of songs that have managed to willing to collide. The Warning, one The album offered listeners perimentation. What The Warn- the mix, songs like "Bendable Pose- successfully integrate sounds ofthe ofthe most talked-about albums of softer sounds along with well-con- ing succeeded at doing - keeping able" and "Don't Dance" seemed to past and the future. both suffer these attributes, failing It is fair to say that Hot Chip was to hold attention by sounding over- unable to find direction with Made ly repetitive and over-saturated in the Dark, but have succeeded at with repetitive tonalities. setting an experimental standard in Made in the Dark may have lost pop music. sight of what The Warning did so well by over-contrasting a variation of sounds, but songs like "Ready for the Floor" and "One Pure Thought" manage to come through with the classic Hot Chip touch that fans
have come to love - strong elec- tronic technique met by catchy hooks. They have also successfully upheld a standard in lyricism that is often lost in electronic music. Upon first listening to Made in the Dark, I was disappointed with the mix of songs, but this was most- ly in part due to the fact that I was expecting a rejuvenated version of The Warning. Having listened to the album several times, I have since warmed up with the exception of a CONTRIBUTED PHOTO few songs. THESE GLASSES ARE SO HOT RIGHT NOW - The 80s have come and gone but the bastard children remain. Made in the Dark has an amaz-
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• MINUTES TO BOTH UNIVERSITIES r ' I __ £|SpT| (JUST LAURIER) ACROSS BRICKER ST FROM STORAGE KITCHEN r ) / • STORAGE MONTHLY (SEPTEMBER TO APRIL) I _ -_4 WgA CLEANING SERVICE PROVIDED ' * [ •} 1 |ittS** : A*Ji 1 V \ HM UT |L|T|ES CHARGES ' HOT WATER / CLEAN ING TO VIEW A UNIT CALL DAN 519-888-7093 ELECTRIC ' TY ' CABLE TVI 0F & STREETS [email protected] SK 173 KiNG STREET NORTH ' CORNER KING EZRA 1 The Cord Weekly ■ Wednesday February 13,2008 A&E 28 Where did the battle go? After a not-so-competitive third round of Last Band Standing, bands in future competitions could strive for better things
an Incubus clone. If anybody has So what about The Unibrows? On Thursday, it was no different, found the music lacklustre, but the heard this band and doesn't make This band is just so damn intent on yet they should have won, if only performances were decent enough this distinction in the first five sec- all of us having a good time. While because I was witness to one of the last Thursday. onds, they are deaf, or have never kinda wacky, I find it somewhat en- highest vest-to-band ratios in the I criticize because I want those DANIEL JOSEPH heard Incubus. dearing at times. history of Laurier. I counted three. who put their art out there to im- STAFF WRITER Both of these are valid excuses, They made it to the finals last I'm okay with that. prove. Laurier needs to keep its but I imagine that neither apply year, and while it was clear that Anyway, they put on a good musical artists on their toes if they So, last Thursday night a magi- to the band, so I therefore blame they weren't going to win, they still show, even if it's music that I'm ever hope to expand beyond a cal thing happened. A completely them for such a terrible transgres- had a good time. not terribly in love with. All in all, I small battle ofthe bands. mediocre band won Laurier's third sion against those with functional round ofLast Band Standing. ears. Wait a second. Okay, well, it's not Hell, I even like Incubus, and so magical and in reality this isn't a I'm a pretentious, arty douche- very rare occurrence here. I'll tell bag. Never mind that I listened to you how it went down. them in the ninth grade when I still Wilf's was pleasantly full to the thought the '90s hadn't ended. brim with people happy to bear Anyway, Incubus never really im- witness to the two acts, Audio To proved on the album S.C.I.E.N.C.E. Mute and The Unibrows. Audio To and Audio To Mute sounds like all Mute took the stage first, to a fol- their albums after Morning View. lowing of obviously enthusiastic But when I'm describing a band, friends. They played their set, and should I really be talking about the then The Unibrows went on stage band they blatantly ripped off any- to finish off the night. way? I mean, it's okay if you have The crowd was a bit thicker by influences! I like it when a band this time, and the tone of the eve- reminds me ofa comparable act, as ning was pretty typical Wilf's fare. long as they bring something spe- They got off the stage and the judg- cial to the table. ing was finished quickly. The crowd To theircredit, Audio To Mute are collectively cheered on The Uni- clearly a tight act, having practiced brows, and it seemed to all those and written a number of songs that attending that they were the clear are coherent and thought out. What victor. does this mean? They could sit
And the winner was ... Audio To down and say, "Let's do something Mute! Wait... what? new." I don't know, pop in some Yes, the entire room was a bit Dylan, mix it with some KRS-One shocked too. It seemed as if every- and Joy Division and see what you body, including the very cham- come up with? Mix up vocal styles, pions just announced, were col- as it's clear that the can stay singer SYDNEY HELLAND a the tune. not? can lectively having "what fuck?" in Why Ifyou play in- LAST BAND STANDING - Audio To Mute were declared the victors in round three last Thursday at Wilf's. moment. Listen, Audio To Mute is struments, get crazy. Fool's film, Gold nowhere to be found Fool's Gold hits rock bottom as a poorly orchestrated high seas adventure just in time to make you yearn for a warm reading week
PRIYAM BHARGAVA each other enough to make us be- Tess (Hudson) files for divorce. from the ever-so-soggy storyline. Ultimately, there are three rea- STAFF WRITER lieve they were ever actually in love Minutes after it has been finalized, At first, Gemma comes off as a sons to watch Fool's Gold - One: a or that they're worth staying awake Finn informs Tess of his recent younger Paris Hilton; however, as topless, tanned McConaughey; two: In attempts to capitalize on the to watch. In fact, the two gay chefs discovery that will lead him to the the movie proceeds, she started ifyou have to review the movie; and success of How to Lose a Guy in 10 on board had more chemistry than treasure and attempts to persuade to grow on me and I found myself three: if you're not going anywhere Days, the golden haired duo ofMat- them. her to come with him. looking to her for a chuckle. for reading week, this is the cheap- thew McConaughey and Kate Hud- Beach bumBen "Finn" Finnegan His efforts are shot as she quickly You would think an affluent rap- est ticket to theBahamas. son is back for a romantic comedy (McConaughey) is a treasure hunt- returns to her job, working aboard per like Bigg Bunny would hire adventure in Fool's Gold. er who rises in the morning solely a mega-yacht owned by billionaire professionally trained goons to kill While their on-screen chemis- to feed his obsession of diving Nigel Honeycutt (Donald Suther- Finn, and although his criminal try sizzled in their previous movie, around in pursuit of the 18th-cen- land), who is seeking to reconnect minions have more than enough this time, much like their marriage tury Queen's Dowry, which report- with his tabloid magnet daughter, opportunities to kill him, they fail in this movie, it sank. Between edly includes forty chests of gold. Gemma (Alexis Dziena). to do so. her serious tone and his southern Fed up with his obsessive behav- Much to Tess' consternation, The violence is quite light-heart- twang, they never complement iour and reckless lifestyle, his wife Finn manoeuvres himself aboard ed until the end, when it is taken up Nigel's yacht and, using his roguish a notch ... or three. Slightly more charm, convinces the tycoon and gory than one would expect from a Gemma to join him in the quest romantic comedy. for the Spanish treasure. Run- Shot in Australia and the Ba- ning serious interference are Bigg hamas, the cinematography is Bunny (Kevin Hart), a rapper to breathtaking and colourful, help- whom Finn owes money, and Ben's ing the audience envision the Uto- mentor Moe Fitch (Ray Winstone), pian atmosphere. Complementing who are also after the treasure. The the movie, the soundtrack sets the cherry on top is definitely the scene mood with mellow tunes from Bob in which Bigg Bunny is sitting in his Marley and other reggae beats. chair, actually petting a bunny. The end result is a semi-enter- The movie turns into a chaotic taining film with an overabun- pursuit of sunken treasure, with dance of subplots delving for nar- doses of comic relief in the form of rative resuscitation and enough CONTRIBUTED PHOTO bimbette Gemma and Alfonz (Ewen pseudo-historical explanation to
CAN I TAKE MY SHIRT OFF NOW? - McConaughey flexes and struts. Bremner), Finn's diving partner, supplement the next episode in the whose main purpose is to distract National Treasure franchise.