December 17th, 2007 Volume 7 Issue 3 Bomb Threat Forces Lockdown at Charles Best Alliance something like this at our school, Church sang it’s pretty overwhelming.” Christmas At the same time that the students carols and were starting to get restless inside, hymns, held more than a few parents were doing contests, the same outside, battling the ill- pounded timed snowfall, as they stood in drums and line waiting to sign out their watched children. “I wished they would Christmas have told us (the parents) what was movies and going on and what to do once we what began got to the church. as a terrifying “Some of us we’re waiting out front ordeal was for quite a while before we realized made that we had to line up to sign out extremely our kids, however, there’s no way enjoyable that anyone can prepare for this thanks to the type of incident so hopefully they commendable can learn from this false alarm for if hospitality something like this happens Photography by Matthew Newton of the again,” said one anonymous Church staff. parent. While the If there is any positive that can be By Echo Reporter Charles Best taken from the day’s unfortunate Farhan Devji spent the afternoon in the Ranch staff did everything that they proceedings, as Vice President of As Christmas day crept closer and Park Elementary Gym which was possibly could to calm the the Student Council Carly closer, Charles Best students kindly made students, Williams explains, it is how the received a unexpected and rather available by many of Charles Best student body reacted frightening surprise when the school Mrs. Ponsart, them, under pressure. went into “lock down” mode, the the principal. including “At first it was kind of scary result of a bomb scare at the school. “Whatever you Grade 12 considering the circumstances of The call came in at 10:20 a.m. via a need, you’ve Repres- what just happened at Virginia telephone call from the Coquitlam got it,” Ponsart entative Tech; however, I think the students RCMP., reported the RCMP in a informed Mrs. Hasheem at Best handled the situation really written release. “They informed us Oneill. Hakeem, well,” said Carly as she too waited that there was a potential bomb threat Meanwhile, the were still in patiently to be released from the at our school and they arrived soon Coquitlam shock about church. after,” said Administrative Assistant RCMP searched the day’s Principal Mrs. Oneill felt the same Mr. Hyde. the grounds, events. way.“It is these unexpected Immediately, the entire school went led by a bomb- “Absolutely moments in life which often show into “lockdown” mode. Rooms were sniffing dog, for unbelievable, the true colors of a person or locked and secured, and the lights any sign of an I can’t really community. We are all very proud off for almost half an hour before explosive explain it,” said Hasheem when of the colors our students evacuation began around 11:15. device - but to no avail. They then waiting for his name to be called showed.” Half the school was evacuated to secured the building and gave the so he could be released from the and sheltered at the Coquitlam all-clear message at around 2:50 church. “I just can’t believe this Alliance Church, while the other half pm. Students at Coquitlam is happening. I didn’t expect Dancing in a Winter Wonderland! By Echo Reporter admiring outfits. Before long Lauren Jeanneau though, the music started up, and the empty dance floor quickly filled up. The two DJ’s of “Full Loaded Productions” got the evening going, playing everything from the ever-popular Soulja Boy, to the crowd-favourite Spice Girls. “My feet hurt so much,” said senior student Laura MacMillan, “but it was so worth it.” Despite the beautiful location, the great venue, and the fun dancing, the food was nothing to be impressed about. “It was crap,” said a disappointed Zane On the evening of December 11th, Jiwa. While everything from pizza hundreds of senior students wasted to potato skins was served in the away their Tuesday afternoons open buffet, “it was really greasy primping and prinking. Girls spent and wasn’t that appealing.” hours on their hair and makeup, and However, there was definitely one guys put on their suits and tied their thing to look forward too. “There ties, before excitedly making their was a dance?” said one grade way up to Westwood Plateau Golf & eleven student jokingly. “I only Country Club, for the much came for the chocolate fountain!” anticipated “Winter Formal.” As the night came to an end, The night started out slow, as elation was in the air, and the fresh students trailed into the two-floor snowfall outside was the perfect floor building, talking to friends and ending to a magical night. Monday, December ,, 2007 EDITORIALS Page 2 Just Don’t Call It Winter Vacation Chuck by Echo Norris columnist spoiled brat’s Jon Ng Beemer with Saves Best rear-wheel-drive You can call a is never fun from Serial car accident a vehi- when his engine cle collision. You can The Cons is about to burn Killer call a whore a sex out at 25 km/hr. trade worker. But to Hacky If physics can don’t you dare call teach you any- Christmas Break Sack thing, it can tell “Winter Vacation.” you that you By Echo Columnist: It’s never been about Ted Carr can’t drive up a winter—never has, hill with rear- If you haven’t noticed the never will. It can’t be wheel-drive. hacky sack that’s down every day called “winter vaca- You just can’t. now in front of the cafeteria, you’re tion” because the As for the a madman. If you think that it’s ca- break is not about vacationing in pable to enjoy yourself when winter; it’s always the slopes, ski- you’re forced outside into the freez- been about Christ- by Echo Columnist ing is over- ing temperatures beneath record mas and New Years, Devon Henderson rated—it’s only rainfall to play a game that you and besides, I hate fun until you could play inside near the heaters, winter. Panic ensued at Dr. Charles reach the bot- you’re also a madman. If the break Best Secondary when its students tom of the hill, Throughout the past two was about winter, learned of a police incident on then you’re just months, students who have en- then where’s my two nearby Mariner Way. as good as a fro- countered the hacky sack on their months off to enjoy Students did not waste any zen cup of tea. way to and from the cafeteria have it? Summer holidays time when it came to making abso- Frozen toes, laughed about it- even tried to join give me July and Au- lutely sure that every single per- clammy fingers in by kicking it back into the joyful gust off to enjoy over son on campus had the hard facts and red noses circle. I personally have made a few sixty two days of sun about what happened. are a sure sign of an imminent fe- friends throughout the past two scorched skimboarding at Span- Here is the story: us December off. That way, we can ver. AHCHOO! months, all thanks to the hacky ish Banks, so why is it that the On the morning of Novem- make room for Kwanzaa, Hanukkah Politically correct or not, the st sack. “Winter Vacation” ends without ber 21 , a high-security prisoner, and Ramadan which all happen in “Winter Holiday” has always It’s a game of skill and it re- a flake of snow after a measly who was doing time for gang re- the final month of the year. But been about Christmas: giving quires constant movement, burn- two weeks at Grandmas’. The lated crimes and smuggling illegal don’t you dare call it Winter Vaca- gifts, lighting the tree, downing ing all of our unwanted calories we two weeks off is sufficient time immigrants across the border, broke tion. Winter has nothing worthy cider—all in the name of Christ- gain by eating the overpriced food to celebrate Christmas and New out of prison. Due to the urgency of celebration. mas day. It never had anything to in the cafeteria. Years. of his situation, the gangster in Let’s talk about winter’s best do with winter because, frankly, So what is the reasoning be- If conservative nut jobs re- question ran fifty miles to friend: snow. The sight of snow on winter is just three months runny hind the no hack rule? After being ally want to make Christmas Coquitlam, where he thought the the road causes me to subcon- noses. told to take it outside a number of Break politically correct and police were least likely look for him. sciously expel every vocabulary If it’s not broken, - times, I finally asked Mr. Stuart to make everyone happy, then give While the man was hiding behind a killing profanity. Driving behind a don’t fix it. find out. It turns out, if somebody shrub and plotting his next move, unexpectedly bumps into someone he spotted a past rival in the nearby playing hack, or even the sack it- intersection. self, they’ll suffer from a jolt of sur- Adult Version of Power Rangers to be Filmed Naturally, chaos ensued. Be- prise, something none of us wish by Matthew Newton Rest assured, it will be handled chain gang. It will be an epic story cause of their poor problem solv- tastefully.” ing skills, the two men, upon mak- to experience, apparently. Following the success of of the foursome’s friendship and Warner Brothers hopes to ing eye contact with one another, So for anybody reading this blockbuster films such as Trans- the challenges they overcome to- snag the teenage box office with a decided to just start open firing and that feels uncomfortable with a formers and Bratz: The Movie, gether.” live action version of classic ani- hope for the best. sense of surprise when a beanbag Hollywood studios are now clam- Based on another hit Dis- mated TV series Sailor Moon. The Luckily, the only injury was makes contact with you in any way, ouring to secure the rights to ney Channel show, the upcoming film will star prominent Hollywood to an innocent bystander, who, de- I apologize for putting you at such classic kids’ media properties to Kim Possible live action film will starlets such as Paris Hilton as the spite being shot in the face and peril. re-milk cash cows long thought appeal to perhaps the widest au- title character. She will be joined brain, only suffered minor injuries. dead. While this may sound like dience out of the movies men- by fellow ‘celebutantes’ Nicole A nearby resident who had heard great news for movie buffs, tioned here. Starring Jennifer Gar- Richie, Britney Spears, Lindsay the ruckus called the authorities and PAMTBOCSBUCTLAMTI (Par- ner as the film’s main protagonist, Lohan, and Kelly Osborne. No then proceeded to shout obsceni- ents Against Movies That Brain- the film will be the first in a trilogy Merry word yet as to whether the script ties from his balcony at the two de- wash Our Children Subtly By Us- highlighting the adventures of will retain the original lesbian linquents. ing Characters They Love And teen hero Kimberly Possible and Christmas storyline edited out of the Ameri- As the battle raged on, Making Them Inappropriate) her sidekick, Ron Stoppable. Said can series. Coquitlam Alliance Church had Spokeswoman Raven LeLefiya Garner: “I see this as a great op- Disney is jumping on the spontaneously burst into flames thinks otherwhise. portunity to reach so many peo- bandwagon, too, with not one, but and the Ranch Park Elementary kin- “It’s disgusting, they’re ple. Everyone loves a hero, espe- Happy two upcoming films based on pre- dergarten class had begun to inter- pulling a sneak attack on the cially Kim; young girls want to be existing franchises of theirs. The vene with water balloons and sling Fox has recently an- her, the guys want to date her, and Holidays first, to be released in mid-2009 is shots. nounced they will be giving the children, teens, and adults alike an adaptation on the hit Disney Thankfully, and in an act of annual Power Rangers series a will enjoy the non-stop action. and all the Channel show The Weekenders. timely heroism, Chuck Norris de- reboot, with the more adult-ori- There’s a very interesting back “We thought it would be interest- scended from a helicopter and ented Power Rangers the Movie: story for Doctor Drakken in this best in the ing to see what high school was saved everyone with his left index Iraq Force. “It will be a com- one, as well as an increased ro- like for Tino, Lor, Tish, and Carver,” finger. pletely new look, distinct from mance between Kim and Ron. It New Year said the film’s director Tony Ugali. The Echo would like to anything the television series will not disappoint.” “Their middle school exploits, thank the CBSS student population ever touched on,” said the film’s While there have been a while entertaining, failed to reach for providing us with such vivid writer, Viktor Phalange. “Rather great deal of trends in the film in- the wide appeal it was intended to and accurate details of the events. than being distinguished by col- dustry, the practice of re-aiming from the have. We’re going to go deeper After questioning the madman in our, each ranger will be red, white old TV shows to appeal to the into the issues they face when they the orange jumpsuit, we learned and blue, and carry AK-47s original fans (who are now con- Staff reach high school. It certainly that he was acting under the influ- rather than the unrealistic laser siderable older than when they won’t be a movie for twelve year ence of the music videos being aired guns the television series touted. first tuned in) has to be one of the of the olds, that’s for sure. Tino becomes on Much Music, and that he only There will also be a love story most unexpected. As the popu- emo, Tish struggles to become wished the channel had been re- between two of the rangers, and larity of such films continues to Echo valedictorian, Lor turns to perform- moved from his high school cafete- while I can’t reveal too much at grow, it is safe to say that we are ance enhancers to keep up with her ria. this point, it will be far more ma- in store for a great deal more such athletics, and Carver is initiated into ture than anything seen before. movies. Bahia Bay High School’s resident Thursday, December 20th 2007 NEWS Page 3 Two for Three in the “Laugh-Along” Department

Picnic on a School Daze derided that, not just anybody could Jeanneau Lauren by Photography By Echo Reporter sit at their heater; it was an honour Battlefield Lauren Jeanneau that had to be earned in time. Sound By Echo Reporter familiar? Maybe it was a little too Zane Jiwa After months of rigorous prepara- familiar for some, as various stu- “Picnic On A Battlefield” depicts tion, “School Daze” premiered at Dr. dents began to express their disap- the brutal and confusing lives of Charles Best Secondary School. proval. “They made fun of everyone soldiers in the early 1900’s. The play Unlike previous Metfest plays, this who hangs out in front of the heaters delivers the message that soldiers one stands out in particular, be- – they don’t even know us!” one on both sides often fought each cause learning their lines was going student conveyed. However, regard- other without even knowing why. In to be the least of the actor’s worries. less of whether or not that is true, the the play, when enemy soldiers talked Plot development didn’t even be- scene was definitely a crowd hit. to each other in a civilized manner, gin until all cast members were cho- A more serious character was an they realized that they were not so sen. The Students brainstormed char- agoraphobic teen too afraid to go to different, and were also both con- acter and situational ideas, creating school, played convincingly by fused as to why they were fighting their version of a stereotypical first Kaiden Bell. It was through his many in the first place. day of school. Director Mr. Case monologues that the theme of the In regards to high school enter- scripted the dialogue, and together play finally came through: School is tainment, the one act play was per- “School Daze” was created.The play, never as safe as it appears to be. haps not suitable for a high school based on the struggles of high school “School is as safe as we all make it to audience: the lack of action and plot stereotypes, includes every typical be,” states Bell in one speech. “It’s left many audience members bored label imaginable, and then exagger- something that adults can only try and confused. However, not all as- ates them. For instance, the dismally to legislate, but really, [students] pects of this play were dreary. morose emo, played impeccably by need to make it so.” He makes a The story line of the play may Neil Assen, and the token black kid, meaningful point here; one hat the have been dull, but the acting was played by none other than Duncan audience is forced to consider excellent. Collin Campbell, who Webster both seemed to be charac- through the remainder of the play. played the lead role as one of the ters pulled right out of a school Although the staging was rela- soldiers, displayed expressive and hallway. And of course, every tively boring, the actors used all the commanding acting abilities, and did school needs to have a nerd, played space. The ‘hallways’ were always not disappoint the audience. Sylvie brilliantly by Carmine Santares. busy to look more realistic, and eve- Belanger, Robyn McPherson, and Other outstanding characters in- rything from the wings to the stair- Shae Young also excelled on the cluded the eccentric, caffeinated cases were used at one point. What stage. drama teacher played perfectly by was truly amazing, though, was the The main message of the play Devon Henderson, and the melan- very first scene, where students were filtered through in the end; many cholic Samantha, played by getting groggily out of bed for their soldiers went to war and fought, but Adrienne Marino, who moved the first day of school. Dozens of stu- very few knew the reasons why they audience with her genuine tears. dents piled out of the same bed, risked their lives. When war ends, However, all people and scenarios throwing off the audience entirely. “The outcome of war is never friendly of the play appeared to be indirectly The pending question of how they or polite despite the face we try to based on Charles Best. That was, all fit, however, would not be an- give it,” noted Mr. Case in the pro- until the ever-popular “Grade 12 swered. “It’s a secret,” said Case gram notes for “Picnic on the Battle- Heater” was brought to attention. mysteriously. I guess we’ll just have field.” The compelling “Heater King” scene to keep on guessing! Daniel Dick helping co-star Ben Dick up from the ground The Comedy of However, years later, one brother Mehrdad Tehrani; however, it was acters,” reflects Mennie. “Every sin- in such an apathetic and annoyed and his slave left in search of their undoubtedly the two Dromio‘s, gle thing we had to do was funny in manner, that she merited a stand- Errors other halves in Ephesus. played by Allana Mennie and Neva some way, so it was a lot of fun to act ing ovation in the curtain call. By Echo Reporter Antipholis and slave Dromio of Carson who captured the audi- out.” Despite the successful final Lauren Jeanneau Syracuse would repeatedly be mis- ence’s attention.Their simplicity and The setting was nothing impres- product, there were some serious Derived from Shakespeare’s taken for their brothers, Antipholis stupidity forced the spectators into sive; indeed the audience would concerns during rehearsals. “It original play, “The Comedy of Er- and slave Dromio of Ephesus, until a laughing fit every time they came have been incredibly confused, had looked like we weren`t going to be rors” opened on Charles Best’s the two sets of brothers reunited at onstage. Their ridiculous manner- there not been signs for each scene ready in time” says director Devon stage on November 21st. It is the last and lived happily ever after. isms included everything from ab- that specified their location. Nor- Henderson, “but we pulled it to- sob story of brothers separated at However, despite the rather predict- surd facial expressions and match- mally, signs tend to be tacky and gether and had a great opening birth, but with an interesting twist. able plot, enough droll situations ing inhalers, and Mennie’s unex- seem to be a desperate, last minute night.” The audience definitely Twin brothers were born, and occur to provide for quite the per- pected “I’m too sexy” dance only resort for a prop; however that was seemed to agree with this state- were given two twin slaves. Tragi- plexing comedy. further perfected the plau. Such at- not the case. Crowd favourite Alycia ment, as murmurs of satisfaction cally, the family was soon sepa- The two Antipholis’s were both tention to pointless detail was what Sundar, playing the part of Nell, and amazement were heard among rated by a storm, and expected played exceptionally well by first- made the play such a success.“Me carried these signs across the stage them all afterwards. Congratula- never to see each other again. time actors Anton Young and and Neva definitely loved our char- tions on a job well done. Page 4 News 20, December, 2007

When did you discover Santa wasn’t real? By: Kelsey Davis

Tyler Hayley Rutherford Mackenzie Allisa Sylvie St.Onge Santa brought us a DVD Richmond Fasciglione Belanger I opened a present on player but it broke, so Dad had I came downstairs and saw Someone told me on the Christmas Eve…from Santa. to take it back to the store he my Dad eating Santa’s Santa’s not real? playground when I was 5 bought it from. cookies. years old. If you could live in a Christmas movie, which would it be? By: Kelsey Davis

Paige Erin Shannon Alyssa Nathan Whittimore Doherty Couper Renke BeaumontFerri Jack Frost: Having a real The Grinch: I’d love to be It’s A Wonderful Life: Life’s Rudolph: I have no friends. Elf: Will Ferrell is SEXY!!! able to sing that “Welcome good! living snowman in your front Christmas” song yard…need I say more? Student Profile: Fortin Among Youth Allied to Help Homeless By: Matt Newton responsibilities there. There are could much more easily be spent to do in only three months is remark- The holidays are known as a some who prepare and serve food, doing something else. The re- able, and there’s no end in sight. time for generosity. Radio stations others who lead worship, someone sponse to the opportunity to Potters is distinct from the organize clothing, food and toy who speaks in the service, and some serve was so overwhelming that average soup kitchen, in that in ad- drives, newspapers organize cam- come to be a friend to the unfortu- CAC began going down on Sun- dition to serving food to the home- paigns like The Province’s less, an emphasis is Empty Stocking Fund, and put on relationships people in general are far and evangelism. more likely to give to those “All they want is for less fortunate. Even more re- people to listen to markably are those who re- them, to acknowl- tain this generosity edge them,” Fortin throughout the entire year. said. “Every time I Take grade 11 Jocelyn go, after I serve, I sit Fortin, for instance: many and listen to their Hands wrapped and ready to go would be surprised to know stories, and what that every Tuesday she vol- they say blows me unteers at Potters Place Mis- away. sion in the heart of the down- “You truly town eastside and right near don’t realise how Pigeon Park, Vancouver’s much you have un- poorest area. til you see people This past September, with next to noth- a group of teenagers and ing.” For Jocelyn, young adults from who also raised sup- Coquitlam Alliance port and spoke at a Church’s youth group be- city council meeting gan to go down to Hastings for the cold wet Jocelyn Fortin posing beside a friend in need once a week, and Fortin was weather program, one of the many who opportunities like Front entrance to Auschwitz concentration camp jumped at the chance to serve nate. days as well, and the recently- this are eye-openers. If you’re interested in those less fortunate than herself. “We’re there to serve Je- launched Dollar-A-Day campaign “It’s so amazing to see these volunteering, feel free to CAC’s volunteers range in age sus,” said Jocelyn of the motiva- has raised around $6000 for Pot- people who are so happy; yet they contact Jon Morrison at from an eleven-year-old into adult- tion that leads her and the group at ters and other such ministries. The have nothing.” 604-339-3956 hood, and they assume a variety of large to sacrifice their time that amount of good they’ve been able Thursday, December 20th, 2007 Entertainment Page 5 CD Reviews: An Eclectic Selection of Stocking Stuffers When every song on a greatest neral director. Despite the poor repetitiveness of the songs. How- lead singer Ryan Tedder has been hits album has appealing lyrics and sound quality, (that ironically con- ever, if you can hang on, the songs playing with his band for years. passionate licks, you’d be a mad- tributes to the mood) “Welcome to usually have a pretty clever ending Starting off with their first single man not to check it out. my World/Lost and Found” features that leave you wanting more. It is “Apologize”, it soon became a passionate side of Johnston fans because of the redundant rhythms number one in all of North America. will recall as memorable and familiar. mind you, that this album loses one And you know you’re good when His voice accurately captures what of the five stars. you have Timbaland produce and it really means to be awkwardly self- So if you suffer from ADD, I ad- make a remix of your music. Over- conscious, which is often the first vise against purchasing or even try- all I would give this CD five stars! thing that catches the audience’s ing to listen to this album as it may I definitely got my moneys worth. attention in his performances. bore you to death. However, be- On the whole, “Welcome to my sides the repetitive songs, “Alive” Godsmack- World/Lost and Found” is an eclec- is a well-developed album and it tic album including twenty mind- allows you to appreciate the origi- Good Times, bending tracks that will hopefully nality that still exists in the music Bad Daniel inspire you. industry today. Times…Ten Johnston- Years of Welcome Godsmack By Echo Columnist to my World/ Ted Carr Lost and King of Leon- Godsmack has more top ten ra- Found dio hits than any other band in By Echo Columnist Because of the history and this album makes it Tara Staples Times obvious why. After thirty hectic years of By Echo Columnist Besides the first song of the making music; Daniel Johnston has Daft Punk- Lorena Russo album, Good Times, Bad Times (a released what may be one of his One Republic- “Because of the Times” is what Led Zeppelin cover), every song most sincere albums yet: “Welcome Alive you would refer to as a master- has received its faire share of the to my World/Lost and Found.” By Echo Columnist Dreaming Out piece. Lead singer, Caleb Followill Ted Carr limelight, and rightfully so. Songs Although he is better known these Loud and his band have really hit a new such as I Stand Alone (the most days as a visual artist than a singer/ Collected from a variety of rave- By Echo Columnist level of music. “Because of the played rock song of 2002), Awake songwriter, Johnston continues to like concerts with lightshows and Lorena Russo Times” is very different from all of (Godsmack’s number one break- paint his emotions in music with ecstasy induced crowds in France One Republic’s latest hit sin- their other records, it still has that through song), and Whatever and melodramatic, earnest and poetic earlier this year, “Alive” is com- gle “Apologize,” hit top 5 on the “Kings of Leon” beat to it like every make this album what it is: Every- lyrics through imagery. The album prised of old material remixed with music charts within the first week of one of their songs does. But the thing you could ask for from a rock includes intelligent lines about pas- new material like you wouldn’t be- its release. I personally fell in love whole CD overall is more upbeat band.With motivational songs like sion, honesty and rejection in eve- lieve. with the song as soon as I had heard than their previous music. The these, it’s no wonder Godsmack ryday life. Some of the songs more This electronic album opens up it. I thought it was so good that I songs off of their new album has earned thirteen top tens on or less follow poetic structures and with an ecstatic crowd cheering as a decided to buy their CD, soon to find haven’t been that popular on the the radio in the past ten years. style, including his consistent use robotic voice slowly and hypnoti- that “Apologize” was not the only radio, but their top songs off their Heavy guitar and aggressive of poetic devices on tracks like cally chants the words: good song on the CD. I was really CD, by reviewers are “On Call” drumming may seem like noise, Speeding Motorcycle, Casper the “Human…Robot…” As the song impressed with the CD, every song “My party,” and “Ragoo.” Kings but the clean riffs and enunciated Friendly Ghost and Deviltown. It is progresses, beats are added, lyrics was different and unique. I couldn’t of Leon play mostly under the music yet aggressive vocals make the amazing to think that most remark- change, and the tempo of the whole say anything bad about one song genre of Indie, or alternative punk. songs likable enough for anyone able songs like Don’t let the Sun go album picks up dramatically. Songs on it, everyone on of them were But on their new CD I found some to regard as quality music. down on your Grievances and True such as Technologic, Around the good. I was so surprised that some- of the music was more hard rock. Before hearing the album, I love will find you in the end were World, One more Time and a boast- one could come out with their first This is one of the few CD’s I would thought of Godsmack as a typical recorded with only a boom box and ful encore are among the eleven album and it could become a hit. This listen the whole way through too. rock band with a couple hit songs chord organ. clever tracks. Unfortunately, the is certainly a CD I would recommend Although reviewers say that their and a bad-boy image.But after A series of clever expressions are majority of Daft Punk’s songs are buying, it’s definitely worth it. The previous albums were better, I hearing this album, my respect for made on lines such as “The only repetitive which could leave listen- type of music One Republic is con- found “Because of the Times” was the band has risen immensely. way to get her to look at you is to ers in a state of boredom, tempting sidered is alternative rock, but I would still overall pretty good. I would Godsmack is a band that can write die” from a track called Obsessed them to change the song. Whoever also describe it as exquisite. The give this album maybe not a full 5 well crafted songs that do not go Man, referring to a woman he almost remixed the songs should have taken sound and the words in each song stars, but certainly not lower than unnoticed. loved, but abandoned him for a fu- into consideration the bothersome have its own individuality to it. The a 4. Echo Contest Name the teachers disguised as Santa to win a free Subway

a) b)

c) d)

Answer sheet: Cut out! Student: Grade: Answers: a) b) c) d) December 20, 2007 Christmas Feature page 6 Santa’s Employee “It’s Starting to Look a Lot Like Giftmas . . .” Santa’s Employee by Echo columnist Josh Armstrong Every year I hear dozens of people talk about Christmas as if it of the Month were a giant, evil commercial event where Satan’s minions emerge of the Month from hell in an attempt to steal our money in the form of Wal-mart Almost immediately or West 49. after securing a But much like the people who consider pokemon games as childish position in the and immature, they forget what’s important: Christmas is fun. workshop, Dobby What other time of year do people give more generously to displayed charities? What time of year are people friendlier, more kind? extraordinary work Even if Christmas is originally a religious holiday, people of any ethic and almost faith (or none) can enjoy the happiness and joy brought on by supernatural powers the season and the entire culture of “Giftmas”. Sure, stores make (such as the ability to a big deal out of Christmas, attempting to galvanise sales, but does that really matter? Stores have always disappear and been up front about their goal of making as much money as possible. rematerialize Giftmas may be a giant exercise in shopping and buying useless items that will be thrown out in a month’s instantly), serving as time, but that’s only if you let it. So when Christmas comes along, buy or (and I know it’s a cliché, but) make a motivator for the something meaningful, resist the giant marketing rush of huge companies and shop at a local store and other elves and waste your money. causing the If you want to celebrate the religious part of Christmas, then by all means, do it! But I’ll take the happy, workshop’s peaceful, generous Christmas any day. productivity increased ten fold. “Compass” Doesn’t Live up to Hype “Dobby was just helping,” said by Echo reporter stunning, keeping the audience on by Echo columnist handful of excellent performances the elf when approached by Echo Devon Henderson the edge of their seats the whole Devon Henderson from its actors. For instance, reporters, “Dobby likes Santa very Adapted from Philip Pullman’s way through. much. He is always giving Dobby Kidman’s portrayal of the cold and Dobby the House Elf has been popular trilogy, “The Golden As a fan of the book, I was cookies and letting Dobby play manipulative Mrs. Coulter was awarded the coveted Employee of Compass,” an adventure movie initially impressed with “Compass’ with the reindeers.” essentially perfect. In a scene the Month award at Santa’s featuring giant talking polar bears ” transition from page to screen. On top of his initial success, between Mrs. Coulter and the workshop. and futuristic blimps, opened on Unfortunately, an important twist Dobby was offered the chance to adventurous young orphan Lyra (as After coming to a messy end in the December 7th at the top of the box that takes place at the end of the assist Santa on Christmas Eve. played by Brighton newcomer finale of the Harry Potter series, office. With stars like Nicole Kidman book was conveniently forgotten Because not all homes have Dakota Blue Richards), Kidman Dobby the Beloved-House Elf and Daniel Craig at the helm, “The in the movie. Given that the chimneys, Dobby will be yells threats at young Lyra for seems to have pulled his life Golden Compass” has all the cliffhanger that was supposed to apparating inside aforementioned defying her wishes and, once Lyra together again. promise of being a memorable epic take place at the end was left out, homes and letting Mr. Claus in finally surrenders, commands her “Dobby came to us in quite a state adventure movie. Unfortunately, those who opted to see the movie through the more accessible front in a forced, sugary voice to kiss her of panic,” states Jolly St. Nick, “He the presence of Kidman, Craig, and without reading the book missed door. on the cheek. burst through the gates screaming even Christopher Lee was not quite out. However, this deprivation is When asked what he wants for By far, the best aspect of this something about a dagger and a boy enough to raise “Compass” up to their own fault for not reading the Christmas, the Christmas elf replied, movie was the action sequences. A named Henry Pooter. Anyways, he the level it could have reached. book before seeing the film. Overall, “Peace on earth and good will particular scene comes to mind in soon proved to possess abilities That being said, there is no doubt “The Golden Compass” is a solid towards men…. and socks.” which feuding armoured polar bears beyond those of my elves. We hired that “The Golden Compass” had effort, but careful, don’t judge a God bless you Dobby, God bless. do battle. In this scene, the graphics him right away.” some brilliant moments and a and fight choreography are book by its movie. Santa’s Secret List by Echo reporter Omar Chu The Echo recently obtained Santa’s top secret list of what the Charles Best staff truly wants for Christmas. You might be surprised what some teachers asked for. · Mrs O’Neill: A sleeping bag, so she never has to leave the school. · Mr Coops: Mr. Sokol’s secret growth formula · Mr. Ipe: Justice. · Mr. Hyde: A Sam Freeman for next year. · Mr. Jiwa: World Domination. · Mr. Murray: A newspaper that meets the deadline. (This one’s going to be tough) 5 THINGS YOU DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT CHRISTMAS

1. Candy canes started out as a plane white stick of sugar candy that was used to decorate Christmas trees. Legend has it that a choirmaster bent the ends of the sugar sticks so they would resemble a shepherds cane and keep the children quiet during the ceremonies. During the 20th century however, candy canes received red stripes to suit the holiday.

2. A 12 year old named Jimmy Boyd popularized the song “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus.” Two and a half million records were sold within the first week of release!

3. Many parts of Christmas trees, such as pines, spruces, and firs can be eaten. The needles are a good source of vitamin C. Pine nuts, or pine cones, are also a good source of nutrition.

4. It is estimated that 400,000 people in America alone become sick each year from eating expired Christmas leftovers.

5. Sir Isaac Newton was born on Christmas day. Thrusday, December 20, 2007 Sports Page 7 Returning Lacrosse Players Is Sam Freeman the Set Lofty Goals Next Lebron James? Picture by Mersad Youssefi Picture by Mersad

By Echo Reporter ster and Claremont. However, as Mersad Youssefi we should be able to beat any team.” star attacker Travis Cornwall ex- Just recently the senior boys Photo by Farhan Devji To kick of the 2007/2008 season plains, if the team does the basic played an exhibition game on home By Echo Hall of Famer Sam Freeman leading the senior The Charles Best Senior Boys La- things right, they should be able to turf against Terry Fox. From the first Zane Jiwa team, there is no reason why our challenge them: “To win, I think we crosse team is undoubtedly a whistle, our boys dominated the Ranked number one in the prov- athletes can not excel. need to make a concerted effort to preseason favorite, especially with game and scored at will, winning 21- ince according to a poll on the David Joyce, who along with Sam top scorers Travis Corn- 0 and clearly showing the Basketball BC website, the Senior Freeman is a provincial calibre player, wall and Taylor Morrison rest of the league that they Boys Basketball team is heading thinks the coach’s goal is very at- returning to lead the team. will be a force to be reckoned into the new season with a whole tainable. “Yeah, it’s possible. We In addition, they will be with. new level of expectation. have a tough division with five other joined by several key play- “Our boys demon- Although the boys are officially teams ranked in the top fifteen, so we ers who played for the strated their chemistry with ranked fifteenth in the province, will have to play hard to get it [the undefeated junior team last each other; they were able to the new look basketball team will Fraser Valley North division], but year. move the ball around nicely still have to live up to the expecta- we can definitely win it.” Coming off a third place and are all individually tions of the coach and the rest of With four wins and one loss thus showing at last year’s Pro- skilled. We won’t be a one the student body. Coach Hyde far in preseason action, the team vincial tournament, “this dimensional team this year; says that he has goals, rather than looks promising and likely to dupli- year’s team will have the we are a threat in every posi- expectations, for this year’s team: cate their Fraser Valley Champion- ability to outscore oppo- tion of the field. Based on “My goal for the team would be to ship appearance last year-and maybe nents (something that was how we did last year and win the Fraser Valley North divi- even make Provincials. missing from last season’s looking at the depth we’re sion, play in the Fraser Valley’s, After defeating two Vancouver squad) rather than at- gaining from the junior pro- and of course, qualify for the Island teams, one by twenty points, play good tough defense and leave tempting to win with stingy defen- gram coming up, my expectations B.C.’s. I’m not saying we are go- and the other by over thirty in two the offense to the attack men. Also sive play,” explained Coach Fridge. are that we challenge for the best in ing to, or that that’s what I expect, recent exhibition games, this years

Picture by Mersad byYoussefi controlling the ball and not mak- Once again the team’s toughest the province,” said Coach Dave but it’s my goal for the team.” team is showing signs of great things ing too many unforced turnovers, opponents will be New Westmin- Fridge. With the LeBron James like to come, and should not disappoint. Sweetish Beginning; Not So Sweetish End By Echo Hall of Famer: whenever he touches the puck. the that December MVP’s Farhan Devji Edler’s composure and ability to Ohlund’s best days are in the past, Swedish rookie sensation Alex- read the ice, a la Nicklas Lidstrom, so it’s about time that the Canucks ander Edler has recently adopted allow him to constantly make the cut their losses before the rest of the the nickname “Mini-Ohlie” courtesy right plays and he seldom finds him- league takes notice and while of his teammates in Vancouver. They self out of position. If Edler keeps up Ohlund is still of considerable value. claim that Edler’s play on the ice his consistent play from the back The Canucks have apparently been coupled with his demeanor off it, are end, the Calder Trophy (awarded to looking for options to solve their indistinguishable from that of the league’s most outstanding scoring woes; a one for one swap for Mattias Ohlund, thus the nickname rookie) could be a distinct possibil- Justin Williams or Erik Cole from the “Mini Ohlie.” But putting aside their ity. Carolina Hurricanes doesn’t look uncanny equal height and weight of Ohlund, on the other hand, causes too shabby at the moment. Lauren Wagner Travis Cornwall 6’3” and 220 lbs, their similar birth- sheer panic in the hearts and minds If Edler’s emergence as an elite places in small municipalities in Swe- of Canucks fans whenever he’s on defenseman in this league isn’t December’s female Echo MVP Six foot three, 205lbs. of pure goal den (Östersund for Edler and Piteå the ice, not only because of his enough indication that Mattias is Lauren Wagner, grade 11, who scorer, what more is there to say for Ohlund) and their interchange- inability to handle the puck, but also Ohlund is expendable, Dave Nonis plays on the Senior Girls’ basket- about December’s male MVP, Travis able Swedish accents which stress because of his apparent lack of mo- should at least pay his dues by ball team. Her integrity, leadership Cornwall of the Senior Lacrosse the letter “s,” and bility in the “New NHL.” sending tapes of Ohlund’s poor play and composed play have earned team? Travis, a fierce competitor Mattias Ohlund are no more alike Furthermore, Ohlund is following to Fear Factor, because watching a her this prestigious distinction. who scores as much as he runs his than Sam Freeman and Jonathan in the footsteps of former Canuck few hours of “Ohlie” making mistake Lauren’s teammates acknowledge mouth, does what many only dream Dick. seeing that he contin- after mistake is far more frightening her enthusiasm in the locker room of doing, leading the team by exam- Alexander Edler displays matu- ues to take “stupid penalties” night than eating a bucket of worms could and her hard nosed effort on the ple. From gym classes, to practices, rity far beyond his fresh age of 21, after night. ever be. court. She doesn’t just sit back to tournaments, Travis’ guard is and has a calming effect on not only It’s fairly clear to anyone who and watch the game when on the never down, and his speed and his teammates, but also the fans even pays the slightest attention to bench; Lauren exemplifies team strength are accompanied by a knack spirit by praising her squad’s en- for timely goals which make him a ergetic play. Even when the Blue force on the field. However, Travis is Devils are down a couple, she not a stereotypical jock; in fact, he keeps her hopeful head up. Like sports an A average—truly, the Rocky, you can never count her perfect package(no pun intended). out. Echo Hockey Pool Standings Cody Johnson 254 Brendan Batchelor 237 Shayne Lachlan 254 Matthew Kirk 236 Mike Noble 254 Mr. House 236 Ryan Budd 253 Mike Child 232 Mr. Napoletano 249 Colin Schmidt 231 Arthur Crossman 248 Omar Chu 230 Alicia Lynn 246 Tommy Kirkley 229 Samantha Hoff 242 Mr.Murray 229 Manny Haider 242 Sanjay Gupta 224 Aiden Seeley 241 Josh Seddon 223 Katelyn Hicks 241 Alefiya Vahanvaty 214 Mattais Ohlund Alex Edler Mr. Wiebe 241 Tatiana Lascano 214 Theresa Lawson unleashes a smash into the Heritage Woods wall. A Promising Start to the Season Ends on a Bitter Note By Farhan Devji that was. As Coach Raabe explains, ize just what kind of low we had volleyball game the grade 12’s son’s “disappointment” won’t be Echo Columnist there is some truth in what both reached.” would play as well as the final op- on her mind when she’s back on Tanya and Andrea had to say: “The However the girls bounced portunity for us to bond just a little the hard wood next season with the The Senior Girls Volleyball season had numerous highlights back and managed to pull it to- bit more with the 11’s and rookies,” Blue Devils. team had their season come to an and moments, we faced a few hur- gether against Heritage and played she said. “I don’t think that, for me, it abrupt and unexpected end on No- dles and it was great to see the girls well enough to win, but the Tanya was a standout will be much of a motivational fac- vember 16th at the hands of the Her- end on a good note, but I won’t lie, Kodiaks were just too much to han- throughout the entire season for tor. Volleyball is my life. If I had to itage Woods Kodiaks in a hard it was disappointing,” he said. dle. the senior girls, and she was rec- think of every game I had lost in fought five set match. If the girls Andrea McCrea, the team’s “Heritage played that game ognized by the home crowd as my years playing volleyball, I think setter who will be heavily relied “MVP” whenever she touched the it would be more depressing for me “The game ended in upon once again on the senior team ball against Heritage. than motivating. “This year was a disap- disappointment, but the next season, explains that even “All I have to say about the Though this past season is pointment, that’s for sure.” season definitely didn’t. It though they came up ever so short MVP chants is that I’m flattered. something I’ll look back on with wouldn’t be right to call against Heritage, they “played well” P.S-the “Beak Squad” did well,” she fond memories, losing out on – Andrea McCrea the season a disappoint- in comparison to their earlier game added. Provincials this past season won’t ment after all we have against Centennial. Other standouts throughout be on my mind when we’re trying done together.” “It was both that they played the season were three members of to win next season. a really good game and that we with all their hearts, and in the end the French Connection, Lauren The fact that if we win we get – Tanya Gavieres didn’t play our best. I think that we just generally wanted it more than Pineau, Theresa Lawson and Chel- to keep playing will be my motiva- played well, at least compared to us,” said Andrea. sea Eades. In fact, the entire team tion, being able to just continually how we had been playing in previ- Team Tanya Gavieres must be commended for the suc- touch a volleyball has always been had defeated rival Woods, they ous games like the one we lost to admits that the loss was a tough cess the team has seen over the past my motivation.” would have made the Provincials Centennial in the districts,” she pill to swallow since it was the end few seasons and for the com- We can only hope that the for the third consecutive season. said. of a journey for her and several mencement of what appears to be a rest of the team shares the same Now the girls must ponderwhat Andrea went on to say that other seniors on the team: Senior Girls Volleyball dynasty here mindset as Andrea when they at- could have been, and look back the loss to Centennial was “a big “It was a heart breaker for all at Charles Best. tempt to reclaim their berth in the with mixed feelings on the season blow for our team and made us real- of us. It was the last high school As Andrea explains, this sea- Provincials next season.