FrIDay February 23, 2007
Issue 11, Volume 140
Issue
W e s t e r n W a s h i n g t o n U n i v e r s i t y
IN THe FroNT Construction continues, sculpture to be moved
Facilities Management: minimal impacts should be expected as new center is built
a&e Greg Applegate
the western front
Dirty shoes and cell phone
conversations muffled by
construction equipment should
be the only impacts for students,
faculty and staff walking on
south campus as construction
continues over the next few
thermals to weeks.
Rick Benner, Western’s
heat up vU assistant director of planning,
design and construction said
PaGe 8 impacts should be minimal.
“Right now, I think most
FeaTures everything has been put in
place as far as the impacts to
the students,” Benner said.
“Pedestrian walkways and
the vehicular changes have
already been implemented. I
don’t foresee anything in the
next few weeks other than the
continuation of what they’re
taking action doing right now.”
Dawson Construction began
photo by Mark Malijan the Western Front
Construction of the Academic Instruction Center, just outside the Communications Facility, began Feb. 12.
for Darfur working on the 120,000-square-
foot Academic Instruction
Facility (AIC) on Feb. 12. he doesn’t expect a significant in temporary power, a parking superintendents from Dawson
PaGe 10 The AIC will have two wings number of trucks to use it. area, a construction staging Construction.
connected by a sky bridge. One Dirt-crew foreman Erik area and temporary storm water He said the two wings of
sPorTs wing will have lecture halls,
classrooms and computer labs
and the other will provide areas
Sleveland said trucks will drive
directly into the fenced-off area
and, if needed, a flagging crew
collection tanks to get the site
ready to start the excavation
process.
the AIC will be constructed
simultaneously and expects the
crew to peak at 100 members
for the psychology department will accompany larger trucks. Sleveland said trucks will within the estimated 16-month
and the communication sciences He said he doesn’t expect there begin hauling in 40-foot trailers construction period. Sleveland
softball places and disorders department. to be significant impact for on Feb. 26. He expects two of said the crew works 6 days per
Benner said Dawson students or pedestrians on south the four trailers to be in place week from 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
fourth in Construction completed campus. by the end of the week of Feb. Sleveland said they are
demoliting the tennis courts Benner said they are still 26. He said the trailers will be working on moving the abstract
tournament and the area where the Visitor in the beginning stages and used for tool storage and as dry stairway, “Stadium Piece”
Information Center used to have started the prep work shacks for the crew. north approximately 150 to 200
be. He said the area will be for the site so they can begin On-site offices will be feet. He said the 50-foot-long
used for the main access road construction of the facility. He brought in for administrators
for construction vehicles but said Dawson Construction put overseeing the project and see aIC page 5 u
PaGe 12
WeaTHer
Friday
440/350
Helping deal with hardship
On-campus resources available for students seeking help coping with stress, anxiety
saturday Andy Campbell symptom related to mental health,” Gibson Deficit Disorder.
the western front said. “We try to problem-solve before
470/360
The death of a Western student Alex The health center offers a questionnaire implementing medication,” Gibson said.
Pempe on Feb. 8 affected hundreds of on its Web site for students who don’t know “But there are a large percentage of students
sunday people, as exemplified by the numerous if they need psychiatric care. After the test who benefit greatly from their medication.”
460/320 comments in his Facebook group, “In measures the student’s symptoms, it is sent Western’s Counseling Center offers
Loving Memory: Alexander Pempe.” In the directly to a psychiatric staff member, such self-help resources on its Web site, as well
wake of a tragedy, students attempting to as Gibson, for a same-day as an on-call social worker
“Sometimes there available at all times for
INDeX
reach out have multiple avenues of on- and review.
off-campus help at Western.
Approximately 20 to 25 percent of
“We know a lot is a stigma to say, emergencies, said Dr.
a&e..........................7 of students access our Nancy Corbin, director of
Upcoming ................9
Western students are currently feeling services,” Gibson said. ‘I need help.’ ” the Counseling Center.
symptoms of stress, sadness or anxiety that “But sometimes there is a - Dr. Emily Gibson Free, appointment-
on the Menu............9 negatively affect their academic work, said stigma to say ‘I need help,’ based services are
director of the Student
Features ....................10 Dr. Emily Gibson, director of the Student especially in men.” available at the Counseling
Health Center
sports .......................12 Health Center. If the staff decides Center to students with
sports Columnist ......12 She said the percentage is standard a student needs psychiatric assistance, life problems and emotional concerns.
opinions ..................14 among American universities, but Western they can be referred to a health center or Specific hours for crisis appointments, and
Frontline ...................14 students have access to more free psychiatric counseling center professional for advice, or an emergency crisis line is available.
Columnist .................14 services than any other demographic group in some cases, medication. To help cope with depression triggered
viking voices............15 in Bellingham. Gibson said the health center follows by the loss of a loved one, Dr. Toi Geil
“It’s our job to determine if symptoms more than 1,500 people on medication
are caused by an illness or a physical for mood disorders, including Attention see suICIDe page 5 u
westernfrontonline.com
2
The Western Front F R I D AY
WesternFrontOnline.com February 23, 2007 PAGE
>>News BriefsIn the News Briefs section on page 2 of the Feb. 16 edition, the
STAND Darfur Benefit Concert is $5 for Western students with a
student I.D. and $10 for general admission.
The Western Front regrets this and any other errors.
Errors should be reported immediately to the Editor-in-chief at
thewesternfronteditor@yahoo.com.
WesternFrontOnline.com
Western Washington University
Communications Building 251
Bellingham, WA 98225
thewesternfronteditor@yahoo.com
Editor-in-chief: Nicole Lanphear
Managing editor: Amy Harder
News editors: Kim Higginbotham
Brian Lenzmeier
Art director: Jessica Harbert
Copy editors: Katie Raynor
Lauren Ross
Features editor: Erica Ham
Sports editor: Andrew Irvine
Arts & Entertainment editor: Taylor Scaggs
Opinion editor: Ryan White
Online editor: Tanya Williams
Faculty adviser: Carolyn Nielsen
The Western Front is published twice weekly in the fall, winter, and spring quarters and
once a week in the summer session. The Western Front is the official newspaper of Western
Washington University, published by the Student Publications Council and is mainly
supported by advertising. Opinions and stories in the newspaper have no connection with
advertising. News content is determined by student editors. Staff reporters are enrolled in
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stories to the editors. Advertising inquiries should be directed to the business office in CF
230 or by phone at 650-3161. Members of the Western community are entitled to a single
free copy of each issue of The Western Front.
WesternFrontOnline.com Friday, February 23, 2007 |
| Friday, February 23, 2007 NEWS The Western Front
Student, university committees seek members
Aaron Weinberg Western faculty and staff. the best one we ever heard.” important to have students review parking
the western front Gentry said one of her duties was A list of university committees can tickets because it’s closer to a jury of peers.
Western alumna and Parking Appeals to decide if this woman should pay her be found on the Associated Students “I would say that 90 percent of the
Board member Mimi Gentry said she parking violation or if the board should Web site. people appealing are students,” Heater
recalled a story about a woman who waive it. She said she was initially The committees deal with a variety said.
received a parking ticket behind Arntzen skeptical after hearing about the woman’s of issues, some of which include advising Students should serve on committees
Hall. Gentry said the woman had paid the situation. the Whatcom Transportation Authority, because they gain valuable leadership
wrong amount at the pay boxes because “This lady better be freaking short,” operating the Sehome Hill arboretum experience, which gives students an
she was too short to see how much the Gentry said, recalling her thoughts prior and updating and creating university advantage when applying for jobs,
parking meters cost. to seeing the woman. emergency response plans. Sanders said.
The Parking Appeals Board is one All doubts disappeared when the Sanders said it’s important for After spending two and a half years
of several university committees Western woman arrived at the meeting, standing students to serve on these committees on the Parking Appeals Board, Gentry
students can join. Many committees, just taller than 4 feet, with a photograph with faculty and staff. said she thinks it probably looks good on
such as the Academic Coordinating of her standing next to the parking meter “I think students bring a perspective an application, but for her it was more
Commission and the General Education towering two feet above her. to these committees that faculty members than just a way to beef up her resume.
Requirement Committee have spots “I thought it was a really great will sometimes take for granted or After receiving many parking tickets
available for students to serve alongside excuse,” Gentry said. “It was definitely overlook,” Sanders said. “As students, we she thought were unwarranted, Gentry
have a better idea of campus cultures and decided to take action.
what the campus needs.” “I was going to get into the system
Want to join a committee? In the Academic Coordinating and change things,” Gentry said.
The following committees currently have openings: Commission, students can voice these At the time, Gentry was the only
types of concerns when the committee student serving on the board, but she said
Associated Students Teaching & Learning makes decisions regarding Western’s she liked how the other board members let
Departmentally Related Activities curriculum. her control the decisions at the meetings.
Committees
Committee (DRAC) For instance, students know there Gentry describes her time on the
Administrative Services Council Discrimination Complaint Review isn’t much of a difference between four- board as being a blast, and said she
AS Bookstore Advisory Group Committee and five-credit classes and the workloads thinks any other student looking to make
AS Election Board Gay, Lesbian, And Bisexual Concerns are practically the same, Sanders said. an impact on Western should look into
AS KVIK Task Force Committee
AS Promotions Committee
Steven Dillman, a Western joining a committee.
Student Publications Council
AS Publicity Center Committee engineering technology professor, said To join a committee, students can
Student Rights And Responsibilities
he used to serve on the Parking Appeals print out an application on the Associated
Committee
University Committees Teacher Curriculum & Certification Board, and said students have just as much Students Web site and turn it in at Viking
Academic Coordinating Commission Council voice as faculty and staff members. Union room 504 or pick up an application
Campus Dining Committee “From my experience, everyone there. The applications go to Associated
Committee On The Assessment Of listens to everyone,” Dillman said. Students Vice President James Sanders,
Genevieve Heater, administrator who reviews them and appoints the
for the Parking Appeals Board, said it’s students.
WesternFrontOnline.com NEWS Friday, February 23, 2007 |
Other sculptures to remain near construction site Support groups available through
u AIC from 1
everything goes smoothly. Facility within the fenced-off counseling and health center
“Once it’s in position, area will not be moved.
[we want to make sure] it Both Benner and Wynn u SUICIDE from 1 to 4:20 p.m. until March 1,
sculpture will be jacked up on accomplishes the artistic goals said they appreciate the and additional group services
steel beams then placed on four of the artist,” Wynn said. “So Western community for its and Dr. Maria Bakht from the are available to students who
dollies and pulled by a bulldozer we can’t mess up the sculpture cooperation. Counseling Center started the request them.
to the dugout section just north and say, ‘hey here’s your “We appreciate the Grief and Loss Group on Feb. 8. The St. Joseph Emergency
of its current location. sculpture back.’” students, faculty and staff,” Geil said the group is open Room also has social workers on
Tim Wynn, Western’s The other two nearby Benner said. “I know it’s only to students who sign up call 24 hours per day, regardless
Facilities Management Director pieces of art, the “Stone an inconvenience but we through the Counseling Center. of a student’s insurance or the
said moving the artwork isn’t Enclosure: Rock Rings,” and appreciate their willingness to It meets Thursdays from 3 cost of care.
difficult and should only the untitled steaming rocks just work with us to get it going.”
take about a day to move if south of the Communications
Crisis help
Western Counseling Center
360-650-3164
Counseling Center Crisis Hotline
1-800-584-3578
Western Student Health Center
360-650-3400
Student Health Center after-hours nurse
1-800-607-5501
St. Joseph Hospital 24-hour social worker
service
360-754-5400
Student Health Center diagnosis questionnaire
https://www.patientcenter.com/wwu/interview/
photo by Justin Steyer THE WESTERN FRONT welcome2.asp
Travis Galbraith, Dawson Construction employee digs out the base of “Stadium Piece” to prepare for the Compiled by Andy Campbell
sculpture to be moved a few hundred feet away on the south campus construction site.
| Friday, February 23, 2007 NEWS The Western Front
Archbishop to visit Catholic Campus Ministry
Alexander Brunett will take part in Sunday Mass and bless new ministry location
COLIN SIMPSON hope that he will see the vibrant ministry the Newman Center.”
the western front that we have created.” Archbishop Brunett helped
Archbishop Alexander Brunett of In addition to the move from the provide resources for the development
the Archdiocese of Seattle will visit Shalom Center to the Newman Center, of the Newman Center, which filled
Bellingham on Feb. 25 to observe the the CCM has developed a 10-year plan a tremendous need for the students,
Catholic Campus Ministry’s (CCM) to create a more accommodating and Magnoni said.
Newman Center on North Garden Street. permanent place for worship, instead Brunett, born in Detroit, Mich.,
Archbishop Brunett will bless the of using the Viking Union every week. filled numerous clergy positions around
new location, which has been under The CCM plans to expand the Newman Michigan until 1994 when Pope John Paul
major renovations since it moved from Center by purchasing the land around the II named him Bishop of Helena, Mont.
the Shalom Center last summer, said center, Becker said. In 1997 the pope named Brunett
campus Minister Rachael Becker. “It may be where we’re at now, or Archbishop of Seattle, a position which
Archbishop Brunett, who is the somewhere else depending on where leads the archdiocese spanning from
pope’s representative for all of Western property becomes available for what we Blaine to Vancouver, Wash.
Washington, will also take part in the need,” Becker said. He has also served on numerous
6:30 p.m. Sunday Mass service in the Youth ministry is important on committees on international and religious
Viking Union’s Multipurpose Room. campuses because students need the relations, as well as co-creating the
Becker said the Archbishop’s visit opportunity to experience their faith, Ecumenical Institute for Jewish-Christian
comes at a perfect time, as CCM’s largest especially when they are away from Studies.
retreat of the year, Search Weekend home, said Greg Magnoni, Archdiocese Along with Brunett, attending the photo courtesy of the Archdiocese of Seattle
Retreat, will end with the Sunday Mass of Seattle spokesman. Mass will be Father Nguyen of Sacred Archbishop Alexander Brunett will be
service. “It’s a resource for the entire Heart Church, Father Frank Schuster of coming to Western on Feb. 25. Brunett
“It’s the first time [the Archbishop] archdioceses,” Magnoni said. “We were the Church of the Assumption and Father was named Archbishop of Western
will have ever celebrated Mass with the just really happy that we were able to Paul Magnano, the Vicar for Clergy for Washington in 1997 and this will be his
first trip to Western.
students [at Western],” Becker said. “I find this new property so we could keep the Archdiocese of Seattle.
Six minor in possession citations issued in Sigma residence
Nathan Seaburg brought it back [to the dorm]. It minutes after the students Mesmer said he feels guilty on kegs regardless of age.”
the western front seemed logical at the time.” brought the keg in, Garcia said. for the students who got caught In addition to the MIP,
Six people, including four The students were spotted “All I heard was a knock in the situation. students may face disciplinary
Western students, were issued bringing the keg into the dorm pretty much right after we came “I feel ashamed for the action from the university,
minor in possession citations by a green coat, who reported in,” Barbito said. “I wouldn’t people that didn’t actually do Sledge said. Residence Life
in the Sigma residence in the the incident to University have answered the door if I anything,” he said. “Some of takes many factors, including
Ridgeway Complex in the early Police, Garcia said. knew it was a cop.” the people who got MIP’s were the quantity of alcohol and the
hours of Feb. 19 after police Police arrested six of just in the wrong place at the resident’s intent, into account
discovered a keg hidden in “We just found an the students in the room, wrong time.” when discussing university
one of the resident’s closets, empty keg, brought taking their information, The possession of alcohol action, he said.
said Sgt. David Garcia of the it back and got administering sobriety tests by minors in the dorms is a “We weren’t trying to have
University Police. and even handcuffing a student persistent problem, said Michael a party,” Barbito said. “We just
Western students Joey
busted for it.” after he provided a false name. Sledge, Western Residence Life found an empty keg, brought it
- Joey Barbito
Barbito and Zach Mesmer were All were released at the scene judicial officer. back and got busted for it.”
Western student
among those who were issued after the police gave them their “Our policy says that if When asked if the students
citations. Officers Joseph Alexander citations. you are a minor, have alcohol were drinking the night they
“We found the keg sitting and Chris Davis responded The police did find other in your possession or in your were issued their citations, both
next to a tree down on High quickly to the call, knocking containers of alcohol in the dorm body, then you are in violation,” Barbito and Mesmer declined
Street,” Barbito said. “So we on the door of Sigma 420 just other then the keg, Garcia said. he said. “We have a blanket ban to comment.
The Western Front F R I D AY
WesternFrontOnline.com February 23, 2007 PAGE
Celebration of women and their bodies
Students speak on love, hate and female empowerment in The Vagina Monologues
Brenda Beehler Activist and writer Eve Ensler wrote the Trozzi Andreini, the center’s co-coordinators and play
The wesTern FronT monologues in 1996 based on more than 200 interviews co-directors, said they assigned the monologues to the
Dozens of people in the audience exploded in she conducted with women of every age and background cast to help the women grow personally.
laughter Sunday night as the all-female cast of “The regarding their vaginas. “It was amazing to see what the monologues did for
Vagina Monologues” imitated orgasms on stage. Some of the monologues are biographical, while different people,” Tracey said.
Dressed in everything from black short skirts and others are a composite of many women’s stories. Since Western juniors Kristy Diepenheim and Stacey
stilettos to Converse sneakers, the women swaggered, then, Ensler’s play has been re-enacted around the world, Kamada attended the performance and said they enjoyed
shook, cried and smiled their way through the two-hour from Israel to Kenya to Bellingham, with a majority of the play because it was supportive of women and allows
performance. the performances being held on college campuses. women to express themselves.
Approximately a thousand people attended the The monologues cover topics such as women “It’s a place where women can say anything and do
monologues, which were performed by Western students who love other women, men who worship vaginas, anything,” Kamada said.
and one community member Feb. 16 through 18 at the transgendered women’s journeys, childbirth, periods, Diepenheim, who has seen the monologues
Performing Arts Center. Proceeds from the monologues genital mutilation and what vaginas would say if they performed before, said she was impressed by the cast
will benefit Lummi Victims of Crime, Domestic could speak. and its presentation of the material.
Violence and Sexual Assault Services and women in Estes, a self-declared feminist and peer counselor “I think it’s a really admirable thing that they do,”
conflict zones all over the world. through Women’s Empowerment And Violence Education she said.
Cast member and Western sophomore Melanie (WEAVE) said she realized the importance of the play’s The audience seemed to agree. At the end of the
Estes entertained the audience as she paced like a lion message after she saw half the monologues last year and final performance Sunday night the crowd stood and
across the stage performing a piece titled, “My Angry grappled with women’s issues in her own life. cheered as the cast clapped right along with them.
Vagina.” She said she related to the play’s themes and “Going into ‘The Vagina Monologues’ and joining Throughout this week women will also be
found cast mates to be a comfort and the experience WEAVE and starting to read feminists’ books and performing their own monologues as “The Vagina
therapeutic. starting to read theories basically saved my life,” she Memoirs.” The memoirs will take place at 7 p.m. from
“The audience gave me chills at some points ‘cause said. “And so I was like, ‘This needs to save other Feb. 20 through 24.
I could see some of the women; I could hear them,” women’s lives.’” Friday’s performance will be held at the Fairhaven
Estes said. “Just hearing their empathy and knowing that The Associated Students Women’s Center sponsored Public Library and Saturday’s at the YWCA Ballroom
they’re making a connection somewhere in their head.” “The Vagina Monologues.” Jessica Tracey and Rhiannon on N. Forest Street.
| Friday, February 23, 2007 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT The Western Front WesternFrontOnline.com ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Friday, February 23, 2007 |
Sasquatch! Music Festival upcoming
comes out of hibernation
Friday, Feb. 23
Daggermouth, Typical Ace, Dragline, Grey Fox
Fantasia Espresso, 8 p.m.
All ages $5
Feed and Seed, Caved-In Trio
Underground Coffeehouse, 8 p.m.
All ages Free
Lifesavas, Boom Bap Project, Cancer Rising
Nighlight Lounge, 8 p.m.
21+ $10
Richard Linklater’s “Slacker”
Underground Coffeehouse, 10:30 p.m.
Free
Saturday, Feb. 24
Kristin Allen-Zito, Dashel Schueler, The Sickness
Fantasia Espresso, 8 p.m.
All ages $5
The Contra, Trutones, 3 Inch Max, Indelible Mess
Tweeks, 8:30 p.m.
All ages $5
Sunday, Feb. 25
Brightblack Morning Light, Women and Children,
Mariee Sioux
Nightlight Lounge, 8 p.m.
photo courtesy of Tag Team Media 21+ $7
The Flaming Lips front man Wayne Coyne cruises the crowd in his infamous hamster ball at
last years Sasquatch! Music Festival at The Gorge Amphitheatre. Monday, Feb. 26
Poetry Night
Fantasia Espresso, 8 p.m.
Annual Memorial Day weekend festival announces Free
2007 line-up with two days of acts, old and new Tuesday, Feb. 27
David Lindley
Nightlight Lounge, 8 p.m.
The 5th-annual Sasquatch! Music Festival line- 21+ $17
Sasquatch! Music Festival up was annouced Feb. 20. Each year the Memorial
Day weekend festival showcases what the Pacific Maria Muldaur, Laurette Langille
The Wild Buffalo, 8 p.m.
May 26 through 27 Northwest music scene has to offer, along with help 21+ $12 advance / $15 at the door
The Gorge Amphitheatre from notable big name national acts. The event
George, Wash.
spans two days, three stages and is illuminated by Wednesday, Feb. 28
Tickets on sale starting March 3: the backdrop of the Columbia River Gorge. Takashi Miike’s “Audition”
Viking Union room 552, 8 p.m.
March 3 through 4: $55 / day In the past few years the festival has played host $.50
March 5 through May 20: $65 / day to acts such as Modest Mouse, Beck, Death Cab for photo courtesy of Sub Pop Records
May 21 through 27: $75 / day
Cutie, Queens of the Stone Age, Kanye West, The The Amateur Pros
The Thermals, from left to right: Kathy Foster, Jordan Hudson and Hutch Harris. The Thermals released its third album “The Body, The Blood, The Machine” in 2006, and garnered critical acclaim from media outlets across the board. The Portland, Ore.-
Camping @ The Gorge: Pixies, The Roots, Band of Horses, Clap Your Hands based band will play tonight at the Viking Union Multipurpose Room with Seattle band The Divorce, Olympia’s Scream Club and Anacortes’, The Oregon Donor.
Underground Coffeehouse, 8 p.m.
All ages Free
$40 per vehicle / day Say Yeah, The Postal Service, The Shins, Coldplay,
TV On the Radio, Nine Inch Nails and more.
It’s heating up
Thursday, March 1
Western students who are bummed out because Brunette Sweat, Sweaty Sweaters, Yip Yip
they have missed one of Associated Students Chiribins, 10 p.m.
21+ $3
Productions Pop Music’s shows this school year have a second chance to catch many of the
same acts who have performed on campus in the past few months at this year’s Sasquatch! Bloomers, Boogie Tights, The Gallus Gals
Music Festival. The Wild Buffalo, 9 p.m.
This year’s festival features a mix of old and new sounds. Iconic hip-hop trio The 21+ $5
Beastie Boys headline a Sunday line-up that also features seminal 80’s hardcore group Bad
Brains and late 90’s psychedelic revivalist The Dandy Warhols.
Organizers say this is only the prelimenary line-up, and more acts are to be annouced
in the coming weeks.
In the past year, The Thermals have stumbled
into politics, critical acclaim and now Western
Meals on
Wheels
2007 Sasquatch! Festival Line-Up
Saturday, May 26 Andrew Lawrence album, which Foster says will be quite different than the last one, first met Canty when they recorded a song for Canty’s Burn To
The wesTern fronT at least in the lyrics end of things. Shine DVD series, in which local bands in different cities across 1) Tacos Tecalitlan #2 - a chrome-paneled GMC truck
Bjork || The Arcade Fire || Manu Chao and Radio Bemba Picture a band that turned down $50,000 from the Hummer “At this point we’re thinking that it won’t have any political the country spend a day playing music in a house the day before that offers tacos, burritos and tortas. They charge $1.25
Sound System || M.I.A. || Citizen Cope || Neko Case* company to have one of their songs appear in a commercial, and themes in it,” Foster said. “The theme of this record has been a the fire department burns it down.
for a taco with choice of meat, onion and cilantro, and
$3 for a torta or burrito with choice of meat, jalepeno,
whose latest album, produced by a member of the band Fugazi, major focal point of the record, but we’re also fine with people “We came to the studio pretty much with everything worked
|| The Hold Steady || Ghostland Observatory || Grizzly envisions a future America ruled with an iron fist by ultra- not getting into the lyrics and just enjoying the music. We want out,” Foster said. “He just really wanted us to make the record
avocado and cabbage. Steak, pork, tongue, cheek or
brain is the meat option. Located at the gravel parking lot
Bear || Electrelane || Two Gallants || Loney, Dear || The conservative organizations. to make the next record more broad, ‘cause a theme like this can we wanted; he didn’t have his own agenda.” on the Northwest corner of Smith and Guide Meridian.
By that description, the phrase “loud hyper-pop” might not kind of alienate people.” This latest tour, which includes 30 shows in less than two
Slip || The Thermals* || The Blow || Aqueduct* || Viva seem applicable, but that’s precisely how bassist Kathy Foster months, is their first headlining tour in the United States in
2) Super Marios - serves Salvadorian food out of a white
GMC Kurbmaster truck. In addition to tacos, tortas and
Voce || Gabriel Teodros* describes The Thermals sound. several years, Foster said. burritos, they offer taquitos, sweet corn tamales and
Their last tour, a European jaunt in November and December papusa, a corn tortilla filled with bean, cheese and pork.
Fresh off the success of their critically acclaimed third album,
“The Body, The Blood, The Machine,” Portland, Ore.’s The The Thermals of last year, took them from Ireland to Croatia and many points
At $7.50, chicken fajitas are the most expensive item on
the menu. Their meat selection includes chicken, steak,
Sunday, May 27 Thermals bring their brand of post-something rock to campus at W/ The Divorce, The Oregon Donor, between, she said. This was their sixth tour of Europe, and it pork and tongue. Located at the S.W. corner of N Forest
7 p.m. on Feb. 23 in the Viking Union Multipurpose Room along garnered a great response. Street and E Champion Street.
Beastie Boys || Interpol || Michael Franti & Spearhead || with openers The Divorce, The Blow and Scream Club.
Scream Club
“Our music does pretty well over there; at least it caught on
7 p.m. Feb. 23
Spoon || Ozomatli || Bad Brains || The Dandy Warhols || While making an upbeat, catchy and danceable album Viking Union Multipurpose Room quicker over there,” she said. “Now I think the U.S. is kind of
3) Great Northern Subs & Espresso - serves six-inch and
foot-long submarine sandwiches and soup. They offer 16
that envisions the United States of the near future as a fascist playing catch-up.”
The Black Angels || Tokyo Police Club || Money Mark || Christian dystopia might not have been an easy project, it also
$8 students / $10 general admission
She said the biggest difference between touring in the
different subs. Prices vary form $3 to $6 for a sub and $2
for chips and a drink. Six tables and a furnace line the
Mirah || St. Vincent || Jesse Sykes & The Sweet Hereafter wasn’t one that was planned from the start, said Foster. United States and Europe is the crowds. wall of the red rail road box car.
Mill Ave and 12th St.
“It wasn’t a conscious decision at first, it just kind of ended “Sometimes people in the U.S. can be more reserved,” she
|| Common Market* || Smoosh || The Helio Sequence || up that way,” she said. While their last album, 2004’s “Fuckin’ A” was consciously said. “There are places in the U.S. where people let loose, but it 4) Jacci’s Fish & Chips - serves fish and chips out of a
Minus The Bear * The album gained inclusion on numerous “best of 2006” distorted and affected, “The Body, The Blood, The Machine” happens more often when we’re in Europe.” red Regent double-decker bus in Fairhaven. They offer
sounds more natural, Foster said. The band will also perform on May 26 at the Sasquatch! halibut, cod and salmon for their two-piece, three-
lists, including the Onion’s A.V. Club, Spin Magazine, National
piece, or four-piece plates. They sell clam chowder they
* = Have played at Western this year Public Radio and online tastemakers Pitchfork. Since its release “We didn’t try to make it as scratchy or trashy as the last Music Festival, which also includes Bjork, The Beastie Boys, The claim uses organic vegetable and local clams and has no
last August, the album has sold more than 12,000 copies, said album,” she said. “We really wanted it to be bigger and louder.” Hold Steady, Bad Brains, The Arcade Fire, Interpol and M.I.A. bacon or chicken broth. 1020 Harris Ave.
Compiled by Western Front staff Joan Hiller of Sub Pop Records. The album also benefits from the help of producer Brendan Tickets for Friday’s show are $8 for Western students and
She said the label will also be releasing the band’s next Canty, drummer for the punk band Fugazi. Foster said the band $10 general admission.
Compiled by Kelly Lemons
10
The Western Front F R I D AY
WesternFrontOnline.com February 23, 2007 PAGE
Standing up for Darfur
Kyra Low The U.S. government labeled the
The WesTern FronT conflict a genocide in 2005, but the
United Nations (UN) has not given the
Ten Western students sit around a rectangular table, crisis the official title of genocide. The
juggling ideas back and forth and tossing questions UN, however, has acknowledged that
around. All are there for the same purpose: to speak up war crimes, such as the destruction of
and raise money for those afflicted by the civil conflict buildings, have been used for ethnic
that began in 2003 in the Darfur region of Sudan in cleansing in the area, according to the
Northern Africa. These members of the Western chapter UN’s Web site.
of Students Taking Action Now for Darfur (STAND) “Since February 2003 the
meet every Tuesday night on campus. Sudanese government and government-
The group speaks out about the conflict in Darfur by sponsored military Janjaweed
tabling, writing letters to Congress and holding benefit have been targeting the indigenous
events, said Mackenzie Miller, STAND co-founder and population through murder, organized
Western junior. starvation, rape and displacement,”
“The goal is to educate the community and campus Robinson said. “More than 450,000
about the humanitarian crisis that is going on,” Miller have died so far, hundreds die each
said. “So many people don’t even know about Darfur.” day. Two and a half million have been
This quarter, STAND’s main fundraising event forced to flee their homes and 3.5 photo courtesy of Sheila Robinson
is a benefit concert featuring local bands No-Fi Soul million are dependent on aid.” STAND members Western junior Mackenzie Miller (left) and Western senior
Rebellion, the Love Lights and Yes, oh Yes. The event The UN has cited the death toll at Sheila Robinson (right) sit with performer Alexander “Alexipharmic” Hallett
will take place at 8 p.m. Feb. 24 in the Viking Union more than 200,000 people, with more (middle) at a Darfur benefit concert at The Nightlight Lounge on Jan. 26.
Multipurpose Room. Tickets cost $5 for students and $10 than 2 million Sudanese displaced and
for general admission. approximately 4 million dependent on The club at Western began fall quarter when
Proceeds from the concert will go to AmeriCares, aid, according to the UN’s Web site. Robinson took a war and human rights class and wrote a
which sends medical supplies to its teams in Darfur No agency has claimed to know the exact death paper on Darfur.
and humanitarian organizations Save the Children and toll in the Darfur region, many citing the lack of While researching for her paper, Robinson came
the International Rescue Committee. For every $100 access to much of the area. across the national group of the same name and
AmeriCares receives, it donates $3,000 in supplies, said The first of the student chapters of STAND discovered Western didn’t have a chapter.
Sheila Robinson, Western senior and club co-founder. originated at Georgetown University in Washington Members of the group feel the international
As a cultural anthropology major, STAND member D.C. in 2004, a year after the Darfur conflict began. community hasn’t responded enough to help in Darfur,
and Western junior Lacey Rojas said she has always been The national organization came together in 2005. Now, Miller said.
interested in making a difference. chapters exist at more than 600 universities and high “It’s appalling to see that the international
“Nowadays a global something happening to schools, Robinson said. community is doing nothing at all,” Miller said. “As
someone somewhere affects everyone,” Rojas said. “It started for Darfur, but now it’s anti-genocide,” students, we’re one of the bigger groups of activists
“There aren’t really any walls anymore.” Robinson said. in history.”
Milestones in the Darfur Conflict
March 2003 January 2004 March 2004 August 2004 September 2004 January 2005 December 2006
Fighting erupts UN estimates 18,000 UN Humanitarian UN estimates The World Health Sudan government Sudan agrees
in the Darfur refugees escape to Coordinator for 1.2 million Sudanese Organization finds and southern rebels to allow UN
region of Sudan in Chad during the Sudan, Mukesh are displaced. more than 200 sign a peace deal, peacekeeping troops
Northern Africa. week of Jan. 23. Kapila, compares displaced Sudanese in which ends the to occupy Darfur.
Darfur situation Darfur die every day. 21-year civil war
to the Rwandan with the south.
genocide of 1994.
Information compiled from United Nations Web site and reports
WesternFrontOnline.com FEATURES Friday, February 23, 2007 | 11
Group seeks to strengthen student-community ties
Sarah Mason the streets in the “Party Bus” for parties
The WesTern FronT to break up.
“It was never meant to be that
Between classes and homework, way,” Lt. Felmley said. “I understand
Western senior Elliott Smith said he students have probably been studying
hopes to improve campus relationships all week and they just want to let their
with the community. hair down.”
He works on neighborhood projects, Brian Weller, owner of local bar
such as parking and rezoning issues, as the Beaver Inn, said he was happy for
a member of the York Neighborhood a chance to voice his opinions during
Association, a group of neighborhood the coalition meeting and create a more
members who gather to discuss ways of personal relationship with the community
improving the area. in which he works and lives.
As the youngest member of “Most of my [coalition membership]
the association, Smith serves as his has been spent addressing the idea that
neighborhood’s representative to Western’s as a business owner I don’t care about the
Campus Community Coalition, a group community,” Weller said. “What people
which works to improve campus and need to understand is that people who
community relationships. own businesses have the same concerns
“I’ve always had a passion for photo by Mark Malijan the WeSteRN FRONt
other people in society have.”
local politics,” Smith said. “[A passion] The York Neighborhood Association meets at Nelson’s Market Feb. 21. Western senior Weller said his and other business
which I don’t think I share with many Elliott Smith represents the association at Campus Community Coalition meetings. operators’ main objective is not just to
other students.” make a profit, but to keep the community
Smith works with locals who are a say on how well the community will Each coalition meeting allows safe by strictly following liquor laws, such
equally passionate about the community, function,” Welker said. members, such as Lt. Steve Felmley of as not serving to minors and not over-
from business owners to the Bellingham Western’s coalition is organized the Bellingham Police Department, to serving customers.
Police Department, to solve common into three branches: enforcement, discuss issues of concern. Though the coalition gives members the
problems, such as loud parties. which works to make police patrols Felmley said he appreciates the opportunity to participate in the community
Campus Community Coalition more efficient around Bellingham; opportunity to communicate face-to- outside Western, Smith said membership
coordinator Lara Welker said the Late Night at WWU, which offers non- face with students and other residents to with the coalition isn’t necessary in order to
organization’s goal is to build relationships alcohol-related on-campus activities create a more understanding relationship be part of one’s community.
between local residents, including students, for students; and Neighborhoods between community members and the “The number one thing that anyone
business operators and police. Engaging with Students, which aims to police department. can do to be a good neighbor is simply to
“We try to bring all these three educate and integrate students into their He said many students perceive the get out there and introduce yourself,” Smith
groups together because they each have neighborhoods, Welker said. police as a threat — always searching said. “It can make a world of a difference.”
12
The Western Front F R I D AY
WesternFrontOnline.com February 23, 2007 PAGE
Vikings snap 7-game losing streak NBA All-Star
Game needs
serious makeover
COLUMNIST
Brady Henderson
I’ve had it with the NBA All-Star
Game.
Some of the best athletes in the
world couldn’t put together 48 minutes
of legitimate, exciting basketball. What
should have been a competitive exhibition
between the league’s top players, instead
made me wonder if watching NASCAR’s
Daytona 500 would have been more
intriguing.
The Western Conference All-Stars
beat the Eastern Conference All-Stars
Sunday 153-132 to continue the trend of
horrendous NBA All-Star Games.
photo by Mark Malijan The WesTern FronT The 285 combined points testify
Western freshman guard Harold McAllister (right) drives to the basket in a 93-82 victory over Northwest Nazarene University to the complete absence of anything
Thursday night on Haggen Court in Carver Gym. McAllister had career-highs of 17 points and 11 assists. The Western men broke resembling defense. Sliding out of the
their 7-game losing streak and improved to 10-13 overall, 4-9 in the Great Northwest Athletic Conference. way to avoid getting dunked on isn’t
basketball. Neither is neglecting to hustle
for a rebound or to put a hand up to
Western softball boasts pitching, team chemistry contest a jump-shot.
That’s what has become of the all-
star game and for some reason the league
Greg Applegate the Lead-off Classic in Phoenix, Ariz. (GNAC) title.
THE WESTERN FRONT seems to think it’s entertaining.
Feb. 15-17, the Vikings showed-off their “I think the attitude has changed
It’s a joke. The NBA needs to take
The Western softball team will rely improved offense with 57 hits in the this year from last because we have a
drastic measures to make its all-star
on their senior pitchers and offense to tournament. bunch of girls who just want to go out
game more competitive.
be the foundation for the 2007 season, Western freshman catcher Hannah there and do whatever it takes to win,”
Instead of pitting conference against
said Western head softball coach Becker hit Western’s first and only home Quint said. “We’re playing to win, not
conference, the NBA All-Star Game
Lonnie Hicks. run of the season so far. Junior catcher playing to not lose.”
should feature the league’s best foreign-
Hicks said this year’s added offense Liza Teichler led the team with 11 hits The Vikings lost 16 of their first
born players taking on the top players
should improve the much-needed run and 3 RBIs. Senior outfielder Misty 23 games last season but finished third
from the United States.
support, as Western only averaged 3.5 Britt had 10 hits, including two triples. in the GNAC with a 12-12 conference
NBA players show little concern
runs per game last season. He said he is Senior pitcher Jackie Quint won record. Western is ranked No. 3 in the
for the outcome of the all-star game, but
counting on every player to contribute, three of the four games she pitched in, pre-season coaches poll — the same
representing their country would give
regardless of experience, for the including a shutout against Emporia position they finished in last season.
them more incentive to win.
program to be successful this season. State University from Kansas, who is But, had a chance to open the season on
Foreign-born players such as Steve
“We finally have most of the ranked No. 3 nationally in Division II. a different note in Phoenix.
Nash, Tony Parker, Mehmet Okur,
things in place to get us on top of the She struck out 16 batters, giving up 10 The Vikings went 4-3, placing 4th
Dirk Nowitzki and Yao Ming could
[conference],” Hicks said. “I think our earned runs and only three walks in 21 out of 28 teams. The team went 3-1 in
compete with any starting five players an
pitching is going to be our backbone and innings. bracket play and qualified for the Silver
American-born team could put together.
if our offense continues to improve the Quint said the chemistry of the Bracket championship game, which is
Another option for the NBA would
way they’ve already shown, we should team has improved and said her team second highest of four brackets.
have an outstanding year.” has a good chance of winning the
At the first tournament of the year, Great Northwest Athletic Conference see SOFTBALL page 13 u see HENDERSON page 13 u
westernfrontonline.com
WesternFrontonline.com SPORTS Friday, February 23, 2007 | 13
Men’s track and field narrowly misses GnAC championship
Dean was named the meet’s reworking my technique from the ground The Western women had two
Men finish second, outstanding male performer, winning both up and I just have the top end of that left,” individual winners with senior Kim
the 200 and 400-meter sprints. He also set he said. “Overall I was happy. Obviously Bascom and sophomore Heidi Dimmitt.
women fourth a meet record in the 60-meter with a time I’d like to go higher, but I’m definitely Bascom won both the triple jump
of 7.06 seconds in his preliminary race happy to take my first conference title and the long jump.
Casey Gainor — he finished eighth overall — you can’t complain with She entered the meet as the favorite
THE WESTERN FRONT in the finals. that.” to win the triple jump, but not in the
Western head track and field He won the 200 in Thornbrue is a long jump.
coach Pee Wee Halsell said he felt a 22.42 seconds and the provisional qualifier for the “She had such a tremendous meet,” he
combination of pride and disappointment 400 in 49.95. Western national meet — the top said. “Not being favored and coming out
after his team’s performance in the Great senior Sam Brancheau 12 provisional qualifiers with a win is a really cool thing to see.”
Northwest Athletic Conference (GNAC) and Western sophomore are selected to compete at Bascom jumped 18-3 3/4 to take top
Indoor Track and Field Championships Tony Tomsich finished first nationals — and will have honors in the long jump and 37-9 1/4 to
on Monday in Nampa, Idaho. and second in the 1600. a final shot at improving win the triple. She is now a provisional
The men’s team finished second Brancheau won the event his qualifying mark at qualifier in both events.
with 166 points — five and a half points in 4:16.90 and also finished Saturday’s Last Chance “Two wins was great,” Bascom said.
behind champion Central Washington second in the 800. Meet at Seattle Pacific “It was nice to be able to do well. We
University. The Western women had Western senior Tyler University. were hoping that I could win both so that
their best-ever finish, scoring 87 points Thornbrue won his first “Tyler is vaulting real we could get the points for the team.”
and placing fourth out of seven teams.. conference title in the pole Michael Dean well,” Halsell said. “He had Dimmitt won the 400-meter in a
“It’s always a disappointment when vault with a height of 15- Western freshman sprinter some really good attempts time of 59.11 seconds.
you don’t win first,” Halsell said. “But feet-10-inches. Western at a height that I’d feel really Halsell said he will select a handful
we were 20-point underdogs in the men swept the top three places in the event confident about him going on to nationals of his top competitors, including Bascom,
and got within five and a half points. In with junior Brian Lucke in second and with.” Thornbrue and Dean to compete in
my estimation we had a great meet.” senior Hunter Verner finishing third. As the team’s stand, Thornbrue Saturday’s Last Chance Meet.
The Western men had three Thornbrue said he was excited would probably be the only Western He said Thornbrue, Bascom and
individuals win GNAC event about the win, but still has room for competitor moving on to the national Western sophomore high jumper Clara
championships including freshman improvement. meet, Halsell said. It would be his third Cook have the best chances of advancing to
Michael Dean, who won two. “Earlier this season I started consecutive year qualifying. nationals on March 10 in Boston, Mass.
Unearned runs hurt Vikings Henderson: Scale back all-star festivities
u SOFTBALL from 12 of winning the conference title. u HENDERSON from 12 fanfare of all-star weekend, it has almost
“Seattle U has had pretty tough become an afterthought.
In a come-from-behind win on Feb. teams the past couple years,” Quint said. be to award home-court advantage in the The Skills Challenge should be the
16 over Cameron University of Lawton, “We’ll be the top team in our conference finals to the team from the conference first to go. Sure, dribbling and passing
Okla., Western won 4-2 in the first round. for sure.” that won that year’s all-star game, much are essential in basketball, but a contest
In the same day, the Vikings defeated Fourteen players are on the softball like Major League Baseball has done based on fundamentals isn’t fun to
rival Seattle University, ranked No. 22 team with only players being seniors. since 2003. watch. In fact, it’s painfully boring.
nationally, 3-2 in the quarterfinals of the Three of those seniors make up the core That rule has come with its share I wonder if the genius who thought
Silver Bracket. of the pitching staff. Half of the team is of criticism, but at least baseball all-star of this brilliant idea is lobbying for a
They continued their winning streak comprised of underclassman, but Becker games are exciting. Since 2003, MLB bunting contest during the MLB All-
on Feb. 17 by defeating Southeastern said inexperience isn’t a factor. All-Star games have been decided by Star Game or a handoff competition
Oklahoma State University 10-6 and She said the team has been practicing an average of 2.25 runs compared to 3.5 during the NFL Pro-Bowl.
advancing into the Silver Bracket five days per week, aside from a few runs from 1998-2001. The dunk contest and three-
championship game. breaks, since September. The American League won last point shootout are fan favorites, but
Later that day in the championship “Because we mesh so well, I don’t year 3-2 after Texas Rangers shortstop the majority of events during all-star
game, Western lost to Hawaii Hilo think inexperience will be a factor Michael Young legged out what proved weekend are a waste of the fans’ time
University 10-3. Freshman catcher at all,” Becker said. “We have that to be the game-winning triple in the top and players’ energy.
Hannah Becker said fatigue contributed unspoken language on the field. Me of the ninth inning. Scaling back all-star weekend would
to the loss in championship game. being a catcher, I got a second baseman With more on the line, such be less of a strain on the players, allowing
“I was worn out,” she said. “All our who understands when I’m going to dramatic finishes might play out in NBA them to focus more on the game. As
hearts were in it but our bodies were just throw it and when I’m not. It’s surprising all-star games as well. much as I want to bash these all-stars for
giving out.” we developed with just practicing for a Reducing the number of events dogging it during the game, I can see why
Quint said she expects Seattle couple months.” during all-star weekend would also they might seem burned out.
University to be the toughest competition Western’s next game is at 11 a.m. make the game more exciting. The NBA needs to completely
in the GNAC. After defeating Seattle on March 1 at the Central Washington The all-star game should be the overhaul its all-star weekend. Otherwise,
University in the Lead-Off Classic, she Invitational in Richland against Saint main event, but with all the unnecessary I’m watching NASCAR next year.
said she’s confident in Western’s chances Martin’s University.
14
The Western Front F R I D AY
WesternFrontOnline.com February 23, 2007 PAGE
Large corporate store ban step in right direction
Bellingham thrives on its local and Seattle. The Adding another Wal- source of groceries and supplies, that
economy. It is because of this principle entire drive is full Mart would hurt the local shouldn’t take priority. By spending the
that the Bellingham City Council voted on of Costcos and Wal- Frontline editorials reflect the economy. Customer business little bit of extra money at local stores, we
Feb. 6 to ensure no large retail stores more Marts. Locally owned opinion of the from the local establishments will support the local economy instead
than 90,000 sq. feet are not to be built shops are nowhere to editorial board and not would likely move to Wal- of an international corporation. Locally
within the city. be found. the staff or advertisers Mart, due to the low prices. owned places such as Bargainica, offer
The vote was in response to Wal-Mart Bellingham of The Western Front.
As citizens of Bellingham, discounted organic and natural foods.
inquiring about building a Supercenter already has many grocery store options. we need to stimulate our own economy. The Wal-Mart would supply more jobs.
within the city. Adding another large store would only Adding more corporate chains would ruin Though with more jobs, more residents will
Even Ferndale has taken a preemptive over-crowd the food supplier market, the small community feel of Bellingham. come, meaning more development. This, in
strike in preventing large corporate stores which would shut down smaller locally We cherish downtown Bellingham turn, would create urban sprawl, which is an
from being built within its city limits. On owned businesses. and the Fairhaven District. They symbolize obstacle the city has been trying to avoid.
Feb. 21, Ferndale enacted a temporary six- The Wal-Mart Supercenter could offer what Bellingham means for many Sprawl would create more traffic,
month ban on large stores over 90,000 sq. a large organic produce selection. The city residents. which is something this city does not need.
feet in the city. already has a Trader Joe’s in the works Encouraging a monopoly would offset Meridian Street and the Sunset area are
The Bellingham City Council made though, which has a large organic food the balance. Bellingham could be full of already prone to sprawl, efforts need to be
the right choice; they have realized selection. Costcos, Wal-Marts and Targets as far as taken to minimize this.
the importance of supporting the local Wal-Mart has deep financial pockets, the eye could see, instead of small locally For any college student with no means
economy. and are thus able to undercut other owned boutiques if we continue to allow of transportation, sprawl is a problem.
Large corporate chains are businesses. This is a reason why the these large stores to develop. Buses are a foreign idea for many students
everywhere. It’s especially hard to company has grown into the corporate While having a Wal-Mart Supercenter
ignore the sprawl between Bellingham powerhouse it is today. would provide a cheap and convenient see WAL-MART page 15 u
Technology dependence stunts our generation’s growth
bubble we all live in.
It’s hard for me to remember life before the inception
of text-messaging, instant messenger and social-
CO L U M NI S T networking portals. How did we live, communicate and
Mary Andom socialize?
Forget your style of clothes. Coolness is now
measured by how many technological gadgets you have,
I have a daily routine like most college students. how many friends you can acquire on MySpace and the
I check my Facebook, MyWestern, MySpace, Yahoo comments posted on your page.
and Hotmail accounts about every hour. We are a generation that is more than just
Technology rules my life. From the time I wake up in technologically savvy — we are the “hey, look at me,”
the morning until the time I go to sleep I’m either plugged generation.
into or wired to a device that constantly rings, dings or In a quest to constantly express ourselves, young
tells me how to live. people today have succumbed to flashy MySpace pages,
Yes, this habit is time-consuming and a little
obsessive, but I measure my social worth by how many
calls, MySpace messages and e-mails I receive a day.
“Young people today have Cartoon by Tristan Hobson THE WESTERN FRONT
If I don’t receive messages or calls I feel unappreciated succumbed to flashy MySpace The majority of my 226 friends on the site are just
and that my relationships will dissolve. pages, customized ring tones acquaintances or even perfect strangers. I can rate my
We count on machines to do many of our daily tasks so friends according to how much I like them with the “Top
when these devices fail, we feel helpless and disconnected and platinum-teeth grills.” 8” feature.
from the millions of people we are connected with. These arbitrary measures of friendship coupled with
Even a term for this technologically dependent customized ring tones and platinum-teeth grills. our obsession to be noticed on the Internet are a harmful
behavior exists, called Technosis. Michelle M. Weil, Ph.D. The Internet has become a place where young people combination.
and Larry D. Rosen, Ph.D. say on their Web site that our can gain instant stardom by posting videos on YouTube, We are given an illusion of real relationships where
growing dependence on technology makes us less sensitive launching their bands on MySpace or creating profiles the person behind the computer screen is not always what
to our own needs and we risk losing our identity. with modeling photos. when he or she appear.
Technology helps us think it’s okay to disrupt others A Pew Internet and American Life survey found 54 Who knows, 10 years from now MySpace could be a
and ignore our surroundings. percent of 18 -to 25-year-olds have used social networking thing of the past, just like pagers, CD players and e-mail?
It’s annoying to be sitting in the library and I hear sites, such as MySpace or Facebook and 44 percent have I wonder what new technological advances will carry
Yung Joc’s “It’s Goin Down” ring tone disturbing the created profiles featuring photos, hobbies or interests. us to the next wave of social interaction. Probably when
peace or when I’m having a conversation with someone We have become more disconnected from daily I am 30 years old, there will be a time in which I will
and they pick up their cell phone. interaction and disillusioned by the concept of being have to abandon my MySpace page and start making real
Every now and then I want to pop this technology connected to everyone. relationships.
POLLSTER to Columbia University to across species. However there is
What do you think of the large store ban?
A. It will hurt the economy with fewer jobs
Letters the Editor
to
find egregious examples
of animal cruelty. Similar
no more ethical justification for
experimenting on animals than
B. It will help Bellingham’s community feel Response to animal abuses happen right here on on people. Just as history has
C. I don’t think it directly affects me WWU’s campus. For decades rightly condemned the Nazis it
D. What ban? testing column the psychology department has will someday condemn people
TO VOTE, GO TO I would like to commend performed barbaric experiments and institutions that experiment
WesternFrontOnline.com Rebecca McDow for her on monkeys and other animals on animals.
excellent guest column in the in the basement of Miller Hall. Unfortunately WWU has
Results from last POLLSTER Western Front (Feb. 13) titled The justification for these just started construction on a
“Realities of animal testing are experiments is that they improve new multi-million dollar animal
What do you A. I could care less- 14% cruel.” She cited a disturbing our understanding of human testing lab in the AIC, thus
think about B. I trust the university’s decision- 31% experiment at Columbia physiology. Perhaps they do. continuing its legacy of animal
the new south C. I think it goes against Western’s University where the left eyes Nazi experiments on Jews were cruelty in the name of science.
campus building enviromental goals- 48% were cut out of baboons to probably even more effective
not being green? D. What’s green?- 7% induce strokes. since Jews are human, thus -J. Christopher Sandvig,
Unfortunately one does eliminating the need to make the Western decision sciences
not need to travel all the way giant leap of interpreting results professor
WesternFrontOnline.com OPINION Friday, February 23, 2007 | 15
Animal testing saves lives research by this doctor, baboon researcher did quality of life for the species
How has MySpace
influenced our
Guest Column and none of them found not describe him as that are researched. Animal generation?
The guest column written by any serious violations or a torturer or an evil research is used to help prevent
Ms. McDow in the February 13 acts of animal cruelty. scientist, but rather as endangered species from
edition of the Western Front had Ms. McDow also a skilled and brilliant going extinct.
several inaccuracies, distortions claimed the animals doctor who was “kind Should cosmetic testing
and misunderstandings of were given “inadequate and caring,” according on animals be limited?
animal testing. pain relief and just to an article in Newsday. Absolutely. Vanity is no reason
thrown into their cold Valz Ms. McDow to injure another animal, be it
The entire basis of the
column, that all scientists concrete cages, unable to eat, claimed that it’s a lie that animal rodent, bird, rabbit, or even sea
using animals for testing are drink or even raise their head.” tests “are scientifically sound” anemone. But to categorize all Julie Filer
engaged in “nothing more There are several inaccuracies and “benefit humanity.” Just a scientists as vile “torturers” is FRESHMAN
than torture” is nothing short in this sentence alone. Only brief consideration of the things neither truthful, nor productive “MySpace is breaking down
of silly. First, most animals one monkey in the study was that have been accomplished to her cause. communication in a serious way.
tested on by research scientists unable to eat, drink or raise through animal testing shows In response to the final Instead of going on dates or
are simple organisms with its head. Not all of them. its validity and value: cures for statement in the column that having conversations, people are
limited neurological systems Additionally, the pain relief the smallpox, polio, rabies, tetanus people should be aware of what’s using MySpace.”
and are widely considered to monkeys were given was nearly and rubella. Additionally, going on in laboratories and that
not feel pain. Nearly all of 20 times the amount given for patients with diseases such as animal testing should be limited,
those scientists who do perform normal animal surgeries, and diabetes, malaria, tuberculosis, Ms. McDow is absolutely
experiments on “higher” animals the medication was similar to leprosy, stroke, heart disease and correct. In fact, if more people
are deeply concerned about the morphine, just as human eye AIDS have had their quality of were aware of what actually
pain management and survival removal patients are given. life improve because of animal happens in most laboratories,
of their test subjects. The method that this doctor research. Often animal research they would feel exactly opposite
The only example of animal uses, called a quadruple bypass is the only alternative available of Ms. McDow. They would
testing given in the column was surgery, has saved thousands of given the high cost of human understand the empathy that Andrew Kvalheim
a study done six years ago by a lives, and was perfected on dogs tissues, the need for living most researchers feel for their FRESHMAN
“MySpace is reinforcing all
scientist who was working hard to and other animals. Included organisms to confirm diagnoses, animals, and the concern they
those frivolous, immature and
aid patients who are afflicted by in one of the lives saved is and the currently limited have with their wellbeing. superficial values and at the
moyamoya disease, which causes former President Bill Clinton. availability of stem cell lines. -J. Henry Valz is the same time, getting a lot of kids
strokes is nearly all its patients. The patients and family of Some animal research Science Editor for The Planet that wouldn’t be otherwise
Several groups reviewed the patients who worked with the is even conducted to help the Magazine be interested in computer
programming a chance to
get involved.”
Support local businesses
Recycle! u WAL-MART from 14
our community interest at heart,
where as a large corporation
barely reflects its community.
who grew up in suburban areas. By supporting our local chains,
When looking at colleges, we will support our community.
students want everything within As a community, we should
proximity. Urban sprawl goes avoid large corporate stores and Adam Pickrell
juNioR
completely against this idea. stay loyal to our locally owned
“MySpace connects people, but
Instead of supporting businesses.
it wastes time in a lot of ways.
international chains, we should The cardinal rule of any It’s good because it connects
be supporting local chains such community is to be a good people who don’t get to see
as Haggen and Bob’s Burger and neighbor — let’s take this motto each other very often.”
Brew. These establishments have to heart.
Compiled by Jaimie Fife
16 | Friday, February 23, 2007 The Western Front