The McGill Tribune Vol. 27 Issue 1

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P u blish ed by th e S tu d e n ts'S o c ie ty o f McGill U niversity

A r c h it e c t u r e

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A d m in is t r a t io n trie s to fo rc e on July 18, 2007, McGill Ancillary Ser­ Ken Sun Students may soon have to say goodbye to the famous café and hangout spot on campus. Possibly the result of a grand scheme to in­ tegrate the Architecture Students' Society into one of the larger stu­ dent groups like the Engineering Undergraduate Society or McGill's Students' Society, Ancillary Services has announced that the café will either be taken over by Ancillary Services or turned into a student lounge.

In an e-mail to the School of Architecture Director David Covo

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vices Director Alan Charade implied that the popular Architecture Café will be replaced by a Chartwell's-run cafeteria.

"The primary goal of McGill Food Services for the Architecture Café is to offer an affordable and quality dining experience...while maintaining the integrity of past operations,"Charade wrote.

He went on to say that these changes would either take place by July 31, or alternatively, the School of Architecture could "repatriate [the See STUDENT on page 7

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W a l k t h e v i l l a g e in t h e p a r k tertainment Group in collaboration John Semley Nowadays, you can't swing a cat without hitting a music festival. From California's Coacherella to Tennessee's Bonnaroo to this week's Bumbershoot Festival in Seattle, it seems as if any abandoned airstrip or swatch of unused farmer's land is being allo­ cated to accomodate bevies of musicans and comparably large swarms of fans, all unified by various shades of insobriety. Although the presentday progeny of the earliest rock fes­ tivals (Monterey Pop et al) may have bent to the seemingly inescapable will of corporate sponsorship and resultantly lost some of the courrter-whatever wild abandon of their ancestors, there is no doubt that the festival environment provides an ex­ cellent forum for music fans to enjoy a vast array of music and other enter­ tainments.

Now celebrating its second year, Montreal’s own Osheaga (pro­ nounced O-SHE-A-GA) Music and Arts Festival, presented by Gillette En­

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with Greenland, Higher Ground and MEG Montreal, assembles a large and fairly varied selection of musical acts for two days at Parc Jean Drapeau. As with Osheaga's inaugural outing, this year's festival boasts four stages and over fifty bands, largely culled from the various subgenres of alt/indie rock/pop.

Headlining the main stage this Saturday, Sept. 8th are the Smashing Pumpkins, gracing Montreal with a stop on their speciously-endorsed "reunion tour", the first since the group disbanded in 2000. British sen­ sations Bloc Party, the more contem­ porary, pertinent headliner, will take the stage Sunday night.

"It's a differentfeeling, really,"said Bloc Party bassist and backing vocal­ ist Gordon Moakes in regards to the experience of playing a larger festival like Osheaga. Unlike a regular club or theatre show, where many bands regularly perform what is more-orSee ROCK on page 17

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Students resort to desperate measures for their 50-cent, fair trade coffee.

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H O M E O P E N E R - “ S E A O F R E D ” THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER Ô,19h00 - UNIVERSITÉ DE MONTRÉAL - MOLSON STADIUM Doors Open at 18h00 - Live band!! SpiriX Cheerleaders Halftime Show Students wearing RED have a chance to win weekend passes to the OSHEAGA music festival.

Student opening day price |2. ww w.athletics.m cgill.ca

iD* WHITE T-SHIRTS ARE SACK! Got yours t* m for only SIS and receive free artramton to IS pre-s*teclesl varsity games «I whichall concessions an* « old for $2 or ondter Available at RedbetJ Sports Shop

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Vincci Tsui Textbooks are infamous for emptying your wallet, but Haven Books, SSMU's recently purchased consignment book­ store, may leave you with a few extra dollars to start the school year. Located at 2070 Aylmer Street, their mandate is to provide students with cheaper used books than those sold through the McGill bookstore's buyback system.

Haven Books is run as a consignment store, where students set the price at which they would like to sell their books. When a textbook is sold, the store issues a cheque for 80 per cent of the sale price to the student. The remaining 20 per cent is then used to cover the costs of running the store.

"The plan for Haven was always to run it at a deficit, or hopefully at some point to break even, but never to make it a profit-making operation," said SSMU President Jake Itzkowitz. "It was purchased and designed as a service when last year's coun­ cil decided to buy it."

Students' Society Vice-President Finances and Operations Imad Barake lists convenience and the option to sell older edi­ tions of textbooks as the two main reasons why the Haven Books model is better than that of the McGill bookstore.

"If you go to the McGill Bookstore with your used books, you can only go on certain days," he said. "The good thing about Haven is that it allows you to maximize the value of your used books and you can come in and register them at any time, so long as we're open."

The requirements for selling a textbook to the McGill book­ store are much more strict than those of Haven Books. Textbooks will only be accepted if all extra components, such as CDs and

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solution booklets, are still intact and only if they are the edition that is currently used in the course. In addition, the bookstore will not buy the book once it has enough to cover the course capacity in stock.

However, McGill bookstore manager Barry Schmidt is still convinced that his system, which pays students 50 per cent of the new book price in cash for their used books, is superior as it offers students instant money.

"If you take your books to Haven tomorrow, you may not sell them at all, or you may not sell them for two or three weeks," he said."You don't get the money and there's no guarantee that you'll sell them. You know when you come to us that you'll get the money straight away."

Itzkowitz stresses that one of Haven Books’s selling points Is that it is an operation run for students, by students.

"Haven is being subsidized by students, as opposed to the university, which is squeezing money out of their students into their bookstore to put back into the university itself," he said. "I think it's really important that Haven is recognized as a student service, and if students are into having their own bookstore, which I think they are, it's really important for us to patronize our own bookstore."

If a book is rejected by the buyback system, McGill's book­ store offers the option of selling the book through its coopera­ tive of 20 Canadian universities or through used book wholesal­ ers.

"You won't get as much money for it from these two sources as you would get if we wanted the book, but you still get something," Schmidt said. "We try to offer flexibility, conve­ nience, choice and value. Those are the key words.”■

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e x e c u t iv e Byron Tau

After last year's Science Frosh scandal involv­ ing a S20,ooo discrepancy, the Science Under­ graduate Society has entirely revised its internal procedure for this year's Frosh.

The shortfall has previously been blamed on poor record keeping and undocumented cash paid to vendors and bars on the spot, as well as poor fiscal judgment on the part of Frosh coor­ dinators.

In order to combat this sort of discrepancy, the new SUS executive has put into place a num­ ber of new procedures to ensure better account­ ing and record keeping. SUS Vice-President Inter­ nal and Frosh Director Hussein Jaffer, claims that the cause of last year's budgetary shortfall was not the result of a lack of judgment on the part of individual Frosh co­ ordinators, but rather a systemic under­ budgeting by an SUS exec that drastically underestimated costs, as well as a lack of real transparency between the society and students.

"I was able to put together a much more de­ tailed and accurate budget that was updated at several points throughout the summer in consul­ tation with [SUS President Spencer] Ng and [VP Finance Eva] Kong," Jaffer said. "All Frosh expendi­ tures first had to be approved by myself and fiscal responsibility was a primary objective of my team.

I also ensured absolute transparency between myself, the coordinators and the SUS executive regarding the financial aspects of Frosh."

During last year's Frosh, the SUS executive was unaware of how many students had regis­

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tered and paid, which compounded the budget­ ary problems. This year, a revamped registration system coupled with more oversight by Frosh coordinators was put in place to avoid such problems. According to Jaffer, more room for im­ provement is still possible, however he remains confident that record-keeping and registration problems will be minimal.

Improvement record keeping this year me­ ticulously documented each cash transaction using cashbooks and invoices, and each required a receipt.

Jaffer is convinced that that this year's Frosh will avoid the problems that plagued his prede­ cessor's event.

"I am confident that the SUS Exec and the Science Frosh coordinators were able to unite to put together a fiscally responsible and trans­

"I think that the scrutiny will lead to better be­ haviour and better accountability."

— Laura Hendrick U3, microbiology and immunology parent Frosh week," he said. "We've developed a system of accountability and responsibility that works incredibly well and I believe the final num­ bers will be the best proof. We already know this was the best Science Frosh that McGill has seen in quite some time and now I believe it will be­ come the most financially stable as well."

Science students appear content with the new focus on accountability within the SUS. Ac­ cording to U3 microbiology and immunology student Laura Hendrick, "I think that the scrutiny will lead to better behaviour and better account­ ability"*

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Kristin Maich After a year of debate and controversy, the Students' Society Judicial Board has ruled that blood drives will continue to be prohib­ ited in the Shatner Building.

The ruling, which came on June 27, is in stark opposition to the outcome of last March's non-binding referendum. The results of the referendum, which had been sealed until the ruling, were released and deemed to be "null and void, without effect."

Marc-Andre Rousseau, now a mathemat­ ical statistics graduate student, submitted the motion for the blood drive question to be put to a student body vote, and is disappointed with J-Board's decision.

"We're in a peculiar situation right now, because it seems that J-Board is at odds with what the studentbody wants," Rousseau said.

"The students have clearly spoken; it's a very strong majority and I think SSMU has to find a way to make it happen."

SSMU President Jake Itzkowitz said that he expected the decision.

"The executive hasn't discussed it yet, so we haven't figured out what SSMU is going to do about it yet," he said. "We haven't decided whether to support another referendum."

The results of the referendum indicate that of 5911 votes, 68.5 per cent, voted Yes to have SSMU reinstate blood drives in Shatner, while only 20.6 per cent voted No. The debate over blood drives began last November when Council banned blood drives from the Shatner building on the basis that Héma-Québec's blood donation policy,

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set by Health Canada, is discriminatory since it bans donations by men who have had sex with men since 1977.

J-Board has ruled that while the word­ ing of the question was not misleading, the policies of Héma-Québec make blood drives unconstitutional. J-Board's decision was based on the wording of the SSMU constitution, which states that SSMU is obliged to act"without discrimination on the basis of irrelevant characteristics,"going on to list sexual orienta­ tion as one such irrelevant characteristic.

However, Rousseau suggests that per­ haps sexual orientation is relevant in the case of blood drives.

"I think it would be completely justified to put something in the constitution, even something specific about blood drives," he said. "I think that the constitution needs a little bit of room for exceptions,”he added, referring to the idea of a'notwithstanding clause,'which would permit exceptions to constitutional laws.

"It's a new [SSMU] executive, and now that the results are out, they have to find a way to represent the students and do their job."

However, Itzkowitz is less sure about the feasibility of adding a notwhithstanding clause to the constitution.

"If there's going to be one, it will have to be really, really carefully worded," he said, but added that he wasn't against seeing the blood drive return to the Shatner building.

"The ban makes sense," Itzkowitz said, "but at the same time, if we can find a way to make it work, I'd like to see blood drives come back." ■

05.09.07 • The McGill Tribune • 3

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Last spring's referendum saw the student body voting against increasing the CKUT Radio fee to $6 .04, opting instead to maintain the radio station's long-standing fee of $4 per semes­ ter.

However, McGill administration has decided to withhold CKUT's fall 2007 funding.

Elizabeth Lista, U3 cultural studies, who worked for CKUT this past summer, is quick to point out that, "Even though the students didn't vote to raise the fees, they did agree to continue paying the $4 a semester. If McGill's not even allowing them to pay that, what are the implications? It's a very drastic measure."

The administration reasons that it had requested that CKUT remove the university's name from its title, and explains that it has chosen to withhold the radio station’s fees unless it imple­ ments this name change.

Deputy Provost Student Life and Learning Morton Mendel­ son explained that the university Board of Directors has been in the process of reviewing the use of the McGill name.

The'CKUT Radio McGill'name became an issue when both its Memorandum of Agreement and its broadcasting license re­ cently came up for renewal, and the use of the McGill name is one of the issues dealt with in the MoA. "Currently CKUT doesn't have a MoA with the University, so

we're not in a position legally to hand over students' money to them,” Mendelson said. "For us to be able to turn over the fund­ ing, CKUT has to have a MoA with the University, and the Board of Directors of McGill has specified that CKUT change its name before well sign it."

Mendelson explained that the Board was concerned with the issue of exposure, citing the station's broad appeal.

"CKUT is really a victim of its own success," he said. "It's no longer simply a university radio station; it's a community radio station. It broadcasts on the Web and could have an international

shops or facilities, and students will still be full members of CKUT, I think there will be a sense of history lost."

CKUT adopted the Radio McGill club name when it began in the 1950's.

"CKUT complied [to the administration's request]," Lista said, "but because it's a very lengthy process to get a name change, they won't be able to get it completed until October.”

The station has provided documentation to indicate that it was in the process of instituting the name-change, which satis­ fied the Board to the extent that it is willing to collect the radio station's fees from students.

"CKUT is really a victim of its own success. It's "We're just holding on to the money until we can no longer simply a university radio station; hand it out," Mendelson said. "We're going to give CKUT a reasonable amount of time [to change its name], and it's a community radio station." if it turns out that we can't turn the funds over, then we — Morton Mendelson, can reimburse students."

Deputy Provost Student Life and Learning "We’re optimistic that things will move forward and there will be a satisfactory outcome,"Lammers said."Stu­ dents will still have access to everything we've been of­ audience, and it is not directly related to the university." fering. We just won't be upgrading as quickly as we'd like to.”■ The director of funding for CKUT, Juliette Lammers, does not think that the removal of the McGill name from the radio station's — A d d itio n a l re p o rtin g b y A lii M a c ls a a c title will have any serious negative repercussions.

"It is unfortunate that they want us to take 'McGill' off [our F o r fu r th e r in fo r m a tio n a b o u t CKUT, tu n e in to 90.3 F M o r ch eck name],"she said."Though it won't affect any ofthe services, work­ o u t www.ckut.ca.

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On June 28, 2007, the Minister of Education, Recreation and Sports, Michelle Courchesne, announced that the government would submit a proposal to exercise greater control of compulsory fees set by universities.

To enable ihe best possible proposal to be formulated in lull transparency, students, individuals or organizations that wish to express their opinions and exercise their right to speak may do so in a public consultation taking place over the six-week period from August 27 to October 8, 2007. Information pertaining to the consultation is available on the following Web site: www . in e ls .g o u v . q c . c a

Opinions may be expressed on the Web site or by writing to the following address: Consultation Frais institutionnels obligatoires dans les universités Ministère de l’Education, «lu Loisir et du Sport 1035, rue De La Chevrotière, 19'- étage Québec (Québec) GIR 5A5

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Garry Lamar of Rhode Island has been charged with extortion after tak­ ing over $20 ooo from his mother by threatening to kidnap her cat. • A California man recently sued the San Rafael police with unjustly holding his massive 500+ collection of porn. The movies were first taken from him after he was charged with secretly videotaping a teenage girl at her home. • Technical problems with a Boeing 757 prompted officials at Nepal Airlines to sacrifice two goats. The ritual was intended to appease Akash Bhairab, the Hindu sky god. • A heart transplant patient from Ringwood, Hampshire, who underwent surgery earlier this year, got to see her own heart on display at the Wellcome Collection exhibition in central London.

• At 9 years of age, Hong Kong Baptist University's youngest pupil, March Boedihardjo, is unimpressed with the easiness of his new school. • The Eurostar train, which travels between France and England, just broke its own speed record, reaching a sexy velocity of 320 km/h. • Italian fash­ ion designed Valentino, 75, has announced his retirement for January 2008 after 45 years in the industry. • A Russian municipal worker has been de­ tained for stealing a bridge. The man used his work truck to take the bridge, and proceeded to chop it up and sell it as scrap metal. • A meth-charged man in Des Moines was charged with domestic assault by police for throw­ ing a bag of Cheetos at his father, which caused an abrasion to his nose.

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05.09.07 • News • 5

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After a sum m er o f training and hard work, th e n ew Students' Society execu tiv es are ready to take up their portfolios and m ake McGill and th e surrounding com m u nity a b etter place. In addition to their ow n unique goals, all six ex ecs focu s on o n e th em e for this year: m aking SSMU relevant to cam pus and com m unity. Read on to find ou t their goals, plans and a few funny quirks.

Jake Izkowitz President Pet Projects: Being present and available (his phone number is even on Facebook), getting kegs back on campus and contacting alumni to raise funds for the 100th year anniversary of SSMU coming in 2008.

Top Priorities: Improving the visibility of SSMU, saving the Architecture Café, dealing with online opt-outs and raising awareness about McGill's food service situation.

Adrian Angus VP University Affairs

If he could only bring one item to a deserted island it would be: his Blackberry.

Pet Projects: Pushing the administration towards making advances on issues like advising, improving the libraries, getting for more after-hours access and making sure that student associations have an adequate say in how fee opt-outs are run.

Top Priorities: Getting the senators prepared for the coming year to ensure that student representation is up and running.

If he could be reincarnated he would be: an indoor housecat.

SARAYOUSEFNEJAD

ANDREW DATHAN FRANKEL

M arcelle Kosman VP Clubs and Services

Max Silverman VP External

Pet Projects: Making SSMU services more Francophone-friendly, developing a more environmentally-conscious clubs and services executive training.

Pet Projects: Educating the campus on the issues of tuition freeze.

Top Priorities: Finding an alternative solution for the now-defunct Centre for Francophone Sutdents, and making the Shatner building more sustainable.

Top Priorities: Fighting the thaw of tuition freeze, improving SSMU's engagement in the surrounding community, and trying to engage more students in all SSMU endea­ vours.

If she could bring one item to a deserted island it would be: sunscreen

If he could bring one item to a deserted island it would be: water

SARAYOUSEFNEJAD

Kay Turner VP Internal Pet Projects: Finding an alternative to 4 Floors, building better SSMU-faculty relations and making her position more political at Council and meetings.

Top Priorities: Getting the web site back up and running coherently, working with the faculty and creating better communication between faculties.

Imad Barake, VP Finance

If she could be reincarnated she would be: a fish or a shark so that she could breathe under water.

Pet Projects: 3-5 year plans which include running a profit with Flaven Books, as well as bringing Gert's back into the black with the Thursday Night Tradition.

Top Priorities: Selling the McGill capital campaign planby using- student support and continuing to improve relations with the administration.

If he could be a superhero he would be: Batman

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05.09.07 • News • 7

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"Since I'm h ere as an e x c h a n g e stu d e n t, I'm lo o k in g for­ w ard to s e e in g th e city, m e e tin g n e w p e o p le , an d th e par­ ties sin c e I'm h ere for th e w h o le year"

C a fé

m a y

t h r e a t e n e d

b y

le a d

A n c illa ry

to

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S e r v ic e s

— Oily Burke U 2, m ech an ical e n g in e e r in g continued from COVER

"Seeing all m y friends."

space] as a student lounge." Either way, Charade's e-mail made it clear that the end for the café is imminent.

Ancillary Services'threats have enraged the Archi­ tecture Students' Association executives and café man­ agers, and have raised a devoted student movement to support the Café. Jessica Dan, U3 architecture and cur­ rent ASA president, is hoping that students will continue to support ASA and the café.

"We will not let the café close," Dan said. "I'm not just speaking for only the architecture students anymore; I want the [McGill] administration to be aware that this is a university-wide issue."

Ancillary Services'threats to shut down the Archi­ tecture Café may be part of a grand scheme to force the ASA into signing a Memorandum of Agreement, and merging with EUS or SSMU. Over the last year, the administration has changed its policy to focus on interacting mainly with larger stu­ dent societies such as EUS while those societies from smaller faculties such as nursing, social work, religious studies and, namely, architecture, either signed a Memo­ randum of Agreement and merged into larger groups or would no longer be recognized by the administration.

Consequently, McGill would no longer collect student fees on their behalf. Faced with this serious loss of in­ come, many societies agreed to sign the MoA. In March 2007 , then-ASA President Andrew Chau met with Deputy Provost Student Life and Learning Morton Mendelson to discuss the MoA, but ASA chose not to sign.

"Historically we have never signed any MoA with McGill. It is essentially an agreement between McGill and the student organization which limits how you can use the McGill name, how you can use the space, and they will collect student fees on our behalf,"Chau said. "There

— N icole Persad U2, m a n a g e m e n t "I'm ex cited to s e e e v e r y o n e - I'm starting a n e w p ro­ gram — I'm m o v in g from b io lo g y to k in e sio lo g y so I'm e x ­ cited a b o u t that."

— A m anda Berger U 2, k in esio lo g y "I'm ex c ited for th e first fo o tb a ll gam e!"

— Kaylea H ow arth U 2 English literature and c o m p u te r sci­ e n c e , ch eerlead er.

"Being a b le to co a c h again . b u n ch o f e le c tiv e classes."

Also, b e in g a b le to tak e a

— M allory M acLeod U3, e d u c a tio n "I'm kind o f lo o k in g forw ard to cla sse s an d th e g en era l uni­ versity e x p e r ie n c e — I'm a fresh m an . After frosh it s e e m s like I'm h ere for su m m er c a m p — it's a lm o st surreal."

— Vlad Dragan Uo, arts and sc ie n c e "I'm ex cited to m e e t p e o p le in m y c la s s e s — I'm a very s o ­ cial person."

— B rendan M cG uigan U 2, co g n itiv e sc ie n c e "Schwartz's. And St. Viateur's."

— Emma W h itney U 3, n e u r o sc ie n c e

area number of conditions that McGill sets; one of them is that the space that they give out to students won't sell food that competes with McGill Food Services."

However, according to Dan, the benefits of joining EUS are relatively large. According to Chau, the condi­ tions set forth by EUS would guarantee that the Archi­ tecture Café would close forever.

"If we incorporate with the EUS, we get the benefits of being included in all the engineering events, and we will get the services of their accountant, and we can get the benefits of their insurance policy," Dan said.

Despite the benefits that ASÂ would reap from merging with EUS, Chau was unable to negotiate a way to keep the café open.

"The EUS wasn't willing to negotiate an extra clause to allow us to operate our café. What [the administra­ tion] wanted was for the ASA to go under the EUS or SSMU and they will give our fees back to us, but a con­ sequence of that was that the café will not be allowed to operate," he said. "We decided that we will continue operating the café and use it as our source of revenue in place of student fees."

By cutting costs, improving sales quantities and consolidating management, ASA expected that they will be able to rely on the café as the sole source of in­ come in place of student fees. The administration, how­ ever, was not satisfied with this solution. According to an earlier interview with Mendelson, ASA's solution was not an option.

Chau also speculates that it is possible that the ad­ ministration is forcing ASA to join EUS by cutting away their only source of income.

"They're definitely trying to get all the smaller or­ ganizations in line," Chau said. "It's highly possible that it is part of a larger campaign to simplify things at their end, so they only have to deal with the larger organiza­ tions." ■

BYTHE NUMBERS Though the blood drives in the Shatner building were ruled unconstitutional by the Judicial Board for discriminating against donors for tneir sexual orientation, studies and statis­ tics indicate that there is a correlation between homosexuals, HIV cases, and patients whoreceive HIV-infected blood.

5% OF THE POPULATION IARE HOMOSEXUAL MEN; 47.3% 47.3% OF HIV DIAGNOSES IN 2006 WERE OF HOM OSEXUAL MEN RED & WHITE T-SHIRTS ARE BACK!

3 WOMEN OVER THE AGE OF 15 WHO TESTED POSITIVE FOR HIV AFTER BLOOD TRANSFUSIONS IN 2006

Get yours now for only $15 and receive free admission to 15 pre-selected varsity games at which all concessions are sold for $2 or under.

-20

BACK TO SCHOOL ATHLETIC APPAREL IN STOCK NOW!

PATIENTS OVER THE AGE OF 15 WHO TESTED POSITIVE FOR HIV AFTER BLOOD TRANSFUSIONS FROM 2001-2006

Get your official "McGill Athletics" merchandise and equipment at unbeatable prices.

8% HIV RISK FROM RECEIVING BLOOD FROM A SOURCE CONTRIBUTED BY HOM OSEXUAL MEN 1.3% DONATIONS INCREASE THROUGH CONTRIBUTIONS BY HOM OSEXUAL MEN

M c G ill S p o rts C e n tre 4 7 5 A v e . d e s P in s O u e s t (5 1 4 ) 3 9 8 -1 5 3 9

i j

McGill ATHLETICS

www.athletics.mcgiH.ca

IT E M O F T H E W E E K O F F I C IA L M c G I L L f o o t b a l l t - s h i r t

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JUMBO SHRIMP O FF THE BOARD

Year o f th e bull

A sh o t in th e arm for O ttaw a Elizabeth Perle hen was the last time you've seen teenage girls clamouring for a shot that wasn't tequila?

The Gardasil vaccine was approved last July by the Canadian government for the prevention of the four strains of HPV that can lead to cervical cancer. According to Health Canada, the two high-risk strains of HPV are responsible for 70 per cent of all cervical can­ cer, while the two low-risk strains are respon­ sible for 90 per cent of all ano-genital warts.

Cervical cancer is a leading cause of death among young women and in the ma­ jority of cases, it is the result of exposure to the Human Papillomavirus. Considering these statistics, it is not surprising that over the past year Gardasil has been pushed at university students as a vital vaccination for anyone who plans to be sexually active.

While Gardasil is easily accessible to stu­ dents on university campuses (it can be or­ dered and administered delay-free at McGill Health Services), there is a catch. Students must pay out of their pockets to receive this vaccine. Moreover, it is not cheap. At McGill Health Services, for example, each of the nec­ essary three doses costs a hefty $140, totaling $420. Considering the relatively low income of the average university student, this essen­ tial vaccine borders on being unaffordable to most McGill undergraduates.

Health Canada estimates that HPV affects 75 per cent of Canadians in their lifetime and cervical cancer is the second most common cancer in Canadian women aged 20-44, after breast cancer. An estimated 1,400 women are newly diagnosed with cervical cancer each year and for more than 400 of these women,

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J. F. Kostuck JFKOSTUCK@GMAIL.COM

here are an infinite number of reasons why one might choose to bullshit one's way through a particular event.

For example, I found Professor Cline's lec­ ture series on String Theory both engaging and enlightening. However, his explanation of the vacuum structure within the theory was quite muddled, which led me to pur­ sue the re a lly hot physics T A I saw coming out of Leacock 132.

Whether it is to interdepartmentally score, or simply to feed a case of mytho­ mania, bullshitting is fun and easy when accompanied by adequate background reading and research. For that reason, I now present you with a concise, yet thor­ ough summary of the 2006-2007 McGill academic year. Commit the following in­ formation to memory and no longer will your parents accuse you of spending eight months in a booze-addled state while their hard-earned money funds your education.

Mention a few key points, and that smokin' PhD student won't see you for the fresh­ man you are, but rather as a socially-aware member of McGill's student culture. So, without further ado, I present the only ar­ ticle you shouldn't need to read, but prob­ ably will.

The year opened with a bang, as a Cessna airplane made an emergency land­ ing in the middle of Tam-Tams on Parc Ave. No hippies were harmed in the process— unfortunately. SSMU also began their year on a rather unstable note by firing their handbook editors, which resulted in late and diminished distribution. According to a poll on the Tribune website, the 2006-2007 academic year resulted in 66% of students' opinions on SSMU changing for the worse.

T it is a fatal disease.

The fact that any Canadian can, instead, receive free vaccinations for diseases such as the Chickenpox or Mumps— neither of which are nearly as dangerous or potentially fatal as an untreated HPV infection— seems illogical.

And it's the same story in the United States. Most insurance companies will not cover the Gardasil vaccination; however, they will agree to cover the cost of other, non-es­ sential drugs, such as Viagra. Furthermore, most men have no access to the vaccination at all, even though research is starting to sug­ gest that Gardasil can serve as a prevention method for throat and anal cancer.

The vaccine's speedy approval by Health Canada could serve as one of the reasons why it has yet to be covered by insurance, as the insurance companies could need some time to set up necessary national protocols relat­ ing to the drug. According to a spokesman for the Ontario health ministry, the federal gov­ ernment has even set aside $30o-million for provinces to fund the vaccine and Ontario is making it available to high school students entering the eighth grade in the next year or so.

Regardless, it has been over a year since Gardasil was approved in the country and nei­ ther the provincial or federal government has introduced any reasonable discounts for uni­ versity students, who are by far the age group most affected.

As a twenty-one year old female who has recently purchased the first round of the vaccination, I'm off to find some tequila...I might as well drown my sorrows now that I've drained my wallet. ■

This may or may not be directly linked to the inaccessibility of these free agendasslash-takeout-menu-directories.

In October, the FEUQ-gate scandal broke out and Jake Itzkowitz made his first of many appearances in the McGill press.

Three credits shy of completing a minor in Political Science, I can proudly say that I voted to get FEUQ off campus based on majority support in Facebook display pic­ tures.

In November, SSMU finally did some­ thing right, taking a strong stance against Health Canada's blood donation policy.

Jake Itzkowitz remained out of the press for two weeks in December, due to the lack of student publications over win­ ter break. To make up for lost time, he was amply quoted regarding Heather MunroeBlum's reappointment until 2012, leading me to believe that HMB will get out of here before I do.

Perhaps the most important discussion to be able to bluff your way through would be that of the SSMU Presidential elections, where Jake Itzkowitz was in the news, a lot.

Long story short - he won, twice, and to complete the charade, you should either act an outraged left-wing radical or a con­ servatively content moderate.

If you feel particularly daring, you can also make predictions on the year to come based on your feigned knowl­ edge of last year. My thoughts? SSMU will continue to lose student support and Jake Itzkowitz will continue to grace the pages of McGill's student press, per­ haps moreso than myself, depending on the amount of hatemail this article generates. ■

K59'

ITHE DEVIL'S ADVOCATE

j t ^ H a t e to rain on your Parade...

Ben Lemieux

BENLEMIEUX@GMAIL.COM

ay rights, as well as acceptance and appreciation for homosexuals as a minority, has come a very Ibng way in a rather short time span. A social group that, not two decades ago, was brutally stigmatized and ostracized now has vibrant communities in a number of North Ameri­ can metropolises and full civic standing in Canada as well as parts of the United States.

Montreal in particular— not unlike San Francisco or Provincetown, MA— has earned a reputation as an openminded, progressive city with a dynamic, thriving gay com­ munity. Montreal’s embrace of the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered culminates with Divers/Cité, an annual cele­ bration of homosexuality comprised events, kinky shows and the famous gay pride parade; a parade which, I must admit, dear readers, I have never attended. For— though it is a fact seldom discussed— straight people who attend gay pride parades are poseurs.

You will have to forgive my penchant for hyperbole; perhaps not all straight people in attendance are poseurs, merely the majority.

Before you stop reading or decry me as a "hogwash ped­ dling bigot," consider the following. Do I, or any of you, attend Lebanese street parties or celebrate Greek Orthodox Easter despite the fact that we belong to neither of these cultural denominations? Nope. Why then, I ask myself, is gay pride

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such a big hit among people who aren't members of the gay community?

You could argue that Lebanese and Greek social func­ tions aren't politically charged events, and that solidarity at a gay pride parade is a powerful statement about tolerance and camaraderie. But let's face facts.This isn't the Million Man March. This is a yearly event that was devised with socio-po­ litical ambitions, but really just turned into a big party. At a time when even Jews celebrate Christmas, it's hard to make a political stand by throwing on some funky colours and hold­ ing the same old bash each year. A mass symbolic gesture is all well and good, but I'd like to hear about the last time any of the straight people at this party circulated a petition or wrote their borough MP a letter when Stephen Harper spoke about re-opening the gay marriage debate. Or would that kind of gesture be too...oh, I don't know... pragmatic?

And if you want to talk about camaraderie, let's talk about the Outgames.The first Outgames were held in Mon­ treal in the summer of 2006, the point of which was to bring together artists and athletes without reproach or judgment for sexual orientation to draw in pro-level contenders from countries where homosexuality is illegal or treated with dis­ dain. The International Conference on LGBT Human Rights was held in Montreal for the three days prior to the Games, and with 12,000 participants, the 2006 Outgames was the

largest international event to be hosted by Montreal since the 1976 Olympics. It was also (go figure!) a devastating com­ mercial failure. A provincial government audit revealed the Games ran a $5-3-million deficit, not to mention that many of the event suppliers were left unpaid.

Where was camaraderie then? Where were the 1.4 -mil­ lion people who attend Divers/Cité and the gay pride parade every year? Probably at home watching W ill & G ra c e and pat­ ting themselves on the back for being so open-minded.

And then, of course, the timeless, hedonistic argument for showing your shit at the parade: "I just wanna get dressed up, fucked up and have a good time!"Hold onto your knickers there, chump. Halloween is never more than 364 days away.

It's like the saying goes: "If you're going to get wet, you might as well go swimming."Most straight folks who haul ass downtown for the gay pride parade are doing so frivolously, without proper consideration or concern for the "politically charged" issues at hand. They are nothing more than week­ end liberals, whose support for gay rights and the gay com­ munity doesn't extend further than a 20-minute bus ride and whose predilection for "celebrating Montreal's diverse culture" likely consists of eating at Blue Nile or some quaint Tibetan restaurant once a month.

And as far as I'm concerned, they're doing more harm than good. ■

05.09.07 • The McGill Tribune • 9

EDITORIAL www.mcgilltribune.com E d it o r - in - C h ie f

T h is y e a r 's t r ia ls a n d

T r / b u la t io n s

Tiffany Choy

Tiffany Choy

e d ito r@ m c g illtrib u n e .c o m M a n a g in g E d it o r s

Elizabeth Perle Kate Spirgen s e n io re d @ m c g illtrib u n e .c o m P r o d u c t io n M a n a g e r

Andrew Dathan Frankel p r o d u c tio n @ m c g illtr ib u n e .c o m N ew s E d it o r s

Alii Maclsaac Kristin Maich Ken Sun n e w s @ m c g illtrib u n e .c o m O p in io n E d it o r

Byron Tau o p in io n @ m c g illtr ib u n e .c o m F eatures E d it o r s

Meghna Marjadi Carolyn Yates fe a tu re s @ m c g illtrib u n e .c o m

T his past summer I found myself experiencing an odd sense of déjà vu as I embarked on my first job that was actually related to my field of studies. I walked into a place I had never been before, was forced to build new relationships with others during orientation and had to fight my way though a thick fog of uncertainty and insecurity.

It was my first steps onto McGill's campus three years ago all over again and it hit like a tidal wave of Froshies overtaking the beer tent on Lower Field.

September is my favourite time of the aca­ demic year.Though summer is inevitably leaving us out in the cold, a set of fresh new faces waiting to become the “McGill student" stream onto campus.

For returning students, it's about sharing stories of the past four months over a cold one at OAP, while making futile resolutions to complete assignments well in advance of their deadlines. Students start classes with the eager goal— or thorough dread— of completing the course with a gleaming A grade.

However, academics can only fill so much time; the rest is often left to a combination of procrastination (which comes in a variety of forms) and the occa­ sional snooze.

As annoying and typical as it sounds, any ex­ perience is defined by what you make of it. Unlike jobs in the real world, it is far easier to take control of the university experience. Some choose to blow off their studies and binge drink because it's the easi­ est thing to do. But before long, they'll be crossing a stage in front of proud and tearful parents with a diploma in hand, wondering what happened.

Many others prefer to fill the time with more substance than just books and alcohol. In our gen­ eration it is common knowledge that stellar grades no longer guarantee a promising future, but aside from the CV-padding, getting involved in extracur­ ricular activities also leaves us with much more memorable (both literally and figuratively) mo­ ments than merely studying in the Redpath Fish­ bowl or sitting with your head in the toilet.

The 20 editors here have chosen to make it about you. Once the Frosh hangover has subsided, students often wonder what being a typical McGill student is about.There's no secret behind it— these editors will show you each week in every issue ways to make the most of your university experience on both sides of the Roddick Gates.

Student life here is one part Montreal, the best college town any student could ask for. An­ other is the student diversity which is lauded in international polls and surveys. Most importantly, it is the actions of this student body on everything from initiatives to achievements. McGillers make their mark not only with their academic excellence but also with their drive to support their academic community.

This year theTribune heads into its 27thvolume and will resume its role as another source of cam­ pus news, opinion, features, entertainment, sports and much more. Many thanks go to the students who gave us a vote of confidence by passing our student fee increase and enabling us to continue producing newspapers. Let us know what you think, let us know what you like and let us know what you hate. For those of you who didn't give us your vote, we hold no personal grudges as you've provided us with the incentive to continue improv­ ing the quality of our paper in the coming year. And to those Froshies who are taking their first steps into McGill's realm, get comfortable, because the first year experience is bound to repeat itself. ■

A rts & E n t e r t a in m e n t E d it o r s

Jamie Goodman

Ezra Glinter John Semley a rts @ m c g illtrib u n e .c o m

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Matt Chesser Aaron Sigal s p o rts @ m c g illtrib u n e .c o m P h o t o E d it o r s

Niki Hyde Sara Yousefnejad p h o to @ m c g illtrib u n e .c o m C o p y E d it o r

OFF THE BOARD

Crystal Chan c o p y @ m c g illtrib u n e .c o m O n l in e E d it o r

Femi Kassim o n lin e @ m c g illtrib u n e .c o m D esig n E d it o r s

Samantha Chang Conor Graham d e s ig n @ m c g illtrib u n e .c o m A d v e r t is in g M a n a g e r

Paul Slachta a d v m g r@ s s m u .m c g ill.c a A d T ypesetter

Traci Johnson P u b lish er

Chad Ronalds

C o ntributo rs

Lindsay Frank J.F. Kostuck Ben Lemieux Paul Schwartzman VincciTsui MikeVallo Trip Yang

T ribune O ffices

Editorial Shatner University Centre Suite no, 3480 McTavish Montreal, QC H3A 1X9 T: 514398.6789 E: info@mcgilltribune.com Advertising Brown Student Building Suite 1200,3600 McTavish Montreal, QC H3A 1Y2 T: 514.398.6806 F: 514.398.7490

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Two T rib u n e editors, Femi Kassim and Byron Tau, debate the most hyped media story of the summer, in the wake of an apparent public and media back­ lash against North America's fastest growing beverage industry: bottled water.

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c o n t r o v e r s y

n the subway a few days ago O the silent monotony was bro­ ken by a man chastising a complete stranger for sipping from a bottle of Aquafina, insisting he was wasting his money. This has got to be most over-reported non-story of the summer. If you've been lucky enough to avoid being lectured on the subject by a stranger on the subway, here's the gist: Beverage giant PepsiCo has agreed to start printing the phrase "public water source," to its Aquafina bottles. It's filtered tap water. You're "shocked,"and "outraged," right?

I'd characterize it more as an­ other example of bottle and tap drink­ ers both being "image conscious" and "typically stupid." Consumer advocacy groups have called it another example of a big corporation, supported by in­ effective, corrupt regulatory agencies, taking advantage of consumers. I love these guys because they're essentially admitting that the people they're try­ ing to protect - us - are mindless lem­ mings.

PepsiCo may have outsmarted us, but that's about it. They've used ro­ mantic images of mountain peaks to imply that Aquafina was derived from pure, spring water - whatever that means. Millions of North Americans fell "victim" to the scam.

I'm definitely not one of self-righ­ teous, tap-only types who would rath­ er pass out on a hot day than be seen with a bottle of well-filtered tap water.

The unifying characteristic between all of us is that people obsessively de­ fine themselves and others by their purchases or non-purchases.

It'sjust water. What is it about this essential and - at least in our part of the world - abundant resource that gets people so emotional?

I highly doubt that many of Aquafina's customers honestly believe they're going to die if they take a sip from a public fountain. I also find it hard to believe that vehement tap water drinkers think they're saving the planet, or destroying corporate Amer­ ica by refusing to buy. There's no sci­ ence or research to back any of these claims - deep down, people are mak­ ing their choices to make themselves feel, and most importantly, look better, whether that's looking health con­ scious or environmentally responsible.

So PepsiCo claims they're selling "portable hydration," not water. And until I can carry a sink or Brita around with me I'm going to keep buying (and reusing) my Aquafina. ■ F e m i K assim is th e Tribun e O n lin e e d ito r a n d perfers a c o o l d rin k o v e r e n v i­ r o n m e n ta l respopnslbility.

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S omewhere in the underbelly of Corporate America, some adver­ tising executive got a big promo­ tion for marketing and selling a product that's already readily available for free. By using manipulative images of bubbling mountain streams and pristine springs, they've managed to make bottled water one of the most popular beverages in both the United States and Canada.

Production of the bottles alone consumes 1.5 million barrels of oil, while the rest of the production process is estimated to consume another 16 mil­ lion barrels. Bottling water is estimated to release 2.5 million tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Surveys estimate that between 30% and 40% of Canadian households primarily drink bottled water.

Now there's a valid argument to be made that bottled water is convenient on the go and that it's entirely rational for a consumer to pay when there is no public fountain nearby; namely for the service of having it transported, stored and chilled. However, serious issues arise when consumers purchase and drink bottled water in lieu of tap water - and the media storm that surround­ ed it reflected the idiocy of paying for something that is already usually free.

The overwhelming majority of public water supplies in the developed

u n n e c e s s a r y word are completely safe while the United Nations estimates that a billion people lack access to clean water in the developing world. Resources and man­ hours are wasted driving trucks filled with billions of litres of water across North America when it could be deliv­ ered via municipal pipelines and home taps. Further, companies use fallacious ad campaigns to disguise the fact that 25 percent of all Canadian bottled water is filtered municipal water anyway.

I generally shy away from buzzconcepts like "awareness." However, in this case, consumer awareness is key, since buying bottled water is a simple, personal economic decision. Consum­ ers should be reminded of the secure and clean public water supply, the waste and inefficiencies involved in produc­ ing and transporting bottled water, and the sheer economic madness of pay­ ing for a product that can generally be obtained for free. The media circus this summer concerning bottled water was not a non-story; rather it was a valuable wake-up call to an irresponsible society.

Bottled water is an expensive, wasteful sham - and is emblematic of a society of unnecessary consumption. ■ Byron Tau is th e Tribune O p in io n ed ito r a n d h ates recycling w a te r bottles as m u c h as h e h ates drin k in g o u t o f th em .

T h e M c G ill T rib u n e is an ed ito rially a u to n o m o u s n e w s p a p e r p u b lish ed by th e S tu d en ts' S ociety o f M cG ill U niversity in c o lla b o ra tio n w ith th e T rib u n e P u b licatio n Society. O p in io n s expressed d o n o t necessarily re p re sen t th o s e o f th e S tudents' S ociety o r M cG ill University. Letters to th e e d ito r m a y b e sent to iette rs @ m c g illtrib u n e .c o m a n d m u s t in c lu d e th e co n trib u to r's n a m e , p ro g ra m a n d year a n d c o n ta c t in fo rm a tio n . Letters sh o u ld b e k e p t u n d e r 300w o rd s an d s u b m itte d o n ly to th e T rib u n e . Subm issions ju d g e d by th e T rib u n e P u b licatio n S o c iety to b e libellous, sexist, racist, h o m o p h o b ic o r solely p ro m o tio n a l in n a tu re w ill n o t b e p u b lish ed . The T rib u n e reserves th e rig h t to e d it all c o n trib u tio n s.

Editorials are d e c id e d u p o n a n d w ritte n b y th e ed ito rial boa rd . All o th e r o p in io n s are strictly th o s e o f th e a u th o r a n d d o n o t necessarily re flect th e o p in io n s o f th e M c G ill T rib une, its ed ito rs o r its staff. Please recycle th is n ew s p ap er.

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accidents happen. As said before, it's only September, and you still need your computer for all those midterm papers.

You're all on your own and you're ready to prove your Remind your friends it's BYOB. Unless your parents newfound responsibilities as an adult. A sophisticated cheese and cracker get-together with your"closest"friends ' also support your night time festivities, you probably barely have enough money to support your own drink­ is in order, aka: invite your entire Facebook friend list over ing habits. Don't forget to ask someone to bring mixers for a night of drunken debauchery. and disposable cups because these can rack up your party Not only is this motivation to unpack your boxes and bill. build the Ikea furniture that's been sitting in a pile over in Stock up on garbage bags (which also double as the corner for the past four months, you'll get to rekindle contained vomit shields) and paper towels from the dol­ your relationships and show off your swanky new pad.

Since rent never comes cheap and all that new furni­ lar store, lest you want to spend additional cash on disin­ fectant and household cleaner. Place these all over your ture already broke your bank, you'll need to get creative on apartment; otherwise you will wake to scores of bottles delivering a night your friends will talk about until winter lining every flat surface. holidays, without further deepening your debt.

If all else fails, just remember the old standby: if you It's only September; there's still at least seven months get an apartment so small that you won't be able to have remaining before you clear out for the summer. Unless any parties there. As in "oh, gosh, I'd really like to have you you want to return to smashed eggs on your door, make it a point to notify your neighbours of your intentions for a guys over for a housewarming, but my place is just so small, we'd better have it at your place." bass-bopping soiree. Ifyou have hardwood floors, the most If you discover, however, that you inconveniently essential warning should go to your downstairs neighbour, have a soul, just charge people cover. Claim it's an "insur­ who can hear and feel every beat of the tunes. ance enhancement decision" and that $10 will buy them Hide all valuables and electronics, except for a cheap the peace of mind to go nuts without worrying about that digital camera to capture the memories. Not because you mysterious stain they left on your living-room carpet. ■ don't trust your friends (or your roommates), but drunken T iffany C hoy and K ate S pirgen

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C onor G raham

Cranium: The granddaddy of board games, this one combines charades, trivial pursuit, drawing with a blindfold and that game where you squish clay (or perhaps that was kindergarten) into one. True enough, it requires large amounts of concentration, but only if you're playing to win. Impossible to be too competitive at, as no one is good at all the different sections. Just pray you don't get one of the more difficult cards (good luck sculpting'listlessness').

Scrabble: Fantastic game. Brings out your inner English nerd in the way only a morphing crossword game can. For bonus points, try playing it with a theme: names of drinks, names of outdoor activities, or anything else you can think of (penis is worth seven points, remember that).

Hungry Hungry Hippos: This one isn't really a board game, but is awe­ some anyways. A friendly warning though: don't try eating those little white pearls. Those Hippos aren't actually that hungry.

Balderdash: A singularly appropriate game for both drinking and family events. Improve your vocabulary while making a total ass of yourself. Highlights include defining the word "Shittah" as a Jewish period of mourning, spent on a toilet.

Jenga: Challenging on way too many levels; useful when there is a large age-range between the participants. Also feeds the destructive impulses most people hide deep inside until they snap and burn down a taco stand on their 29th birthday. Each time you pull out a piece, don't forget to scream "I've got woodl'at the top of your lungs.

Taboo: Played on teams, you pick a card with six words on it. The goal is to make one of the other members on your team say the top word without saying any of the other words on the card. For example, make your team say "home" without using "house, love, heart, etc." A special bond with your team­ mates is always helpful.The record is getting yourfriend to say"Paul Revere" by shouting out"Ghandi has ADD!" 13 Dead End Drive: Everyone should remember these commercials from the early 90 s. It was a fairly normal type of board game, except there were little traps laid all over the board, so that if someone stepped on a certain square, you got to flip a switch or turn a dial that would kill the player in a ghastly way.

Despite not being a classic, this game will bring back memories of Ace of Bass and Hot Wheels before it's even out of the box.

Star Wars Monopoly: Also known as Star Wars-opoly, this game repre­ sents the pinnacle of fandom. Any kind of themed Monopoly will- do, as the game has been spawned into so many spin-offs, it's a miracle everyone doesn't have their own home version about their own life.To be honest, 99% of people in the world still haven't finished a game. Who has the four hours needed to completely bankrupt someone?

FOOD FO RTHO UGHT

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Tostadas Salsa Verde

School may have already started, but at least you can pretend other­ wise by eating like its still summer!

This Mexican recipe lets you take ad­ vantage of ripe tomatoes, and uses the less conventional green salsa to create a different, fresh taste. Plus, these tostadas are great with beer, in case you're feeling brave enough to assault your liver again so soon after frosh. Cheers!

Ingredients: (6-inch) flour tortillas % cup shredded pepper Jack cheese 2 V2cups shredded cooked chicken 1 cup jarred green salsa (plus more for serving, if desired) 'A cup plus 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro 'A teaspoon ground cumin 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce 3 plum tomatoes, diced 'A cup sour cream

4

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Steps: (1) Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Place tortillas flat on a baking sheet; sprinkle cheese over tortillas and bake until golden brown (approximately 8-10 minutes).

(2) While tortillas are baking, com­ bine chicken, salsa, ’A cup cilantro, and cumin in a medium-sized bowl.

Spoon this mixture over tortillas and bake for another 8 minutes.

(3) Remove tortillas from oven and top with lettuce, tomato, sour cream, and remaining cilantro. Serve immediately, with the extra green salsa. ■

Are you an Internationa! student?

This is aWeb site designed with your needs in mind!

Living Studying Working Participating Travelling Bulletin board

Study in Contre :-) The portal for international students

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Snakes and Ladders: Everyone and their dog has a copy of this game.

Most people have also won and lost so many times, they would be content never to see it again. But for that one time when you!re cleaning out your cup­ boards before you move out and you decide to play it once for posterity, just don't get angry when you quickly realize why you put the damn thing away in the first place.

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Shot-glass Chess: Chess plus drinking equals awesome. Just imagine Kasparov high on Listerine and you should be able to play like a master. If you're doing it for the first time, you might even get lucky and discover you have, a natural gift. However, in all likelihood, you're just another wino who thought the little castle one could move diagonally.

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W ant to a d v ertise in th e C am p u s C alendar? For ju st a to o n ie y o u can a d v ertise your e v e n t up to tw o w e e k s in a d v a n ce.

Email calen d ar@ m cgilltrib u n e.com for m o re inform ation , or d rop by th e Tribune o ffice in S hatner n o .

05.09.07 • The McGill Tribune • 11

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Weary of putting poisonous ant traps near surfaces where you or your pets eat? Here are nine all-natural ways to get rid of the armies of ants invad­ ing our apartments and houses because the weather is now nice.

Looking for places to turn your used textbooks into more than paperweights can be frustrating. While it's nearly impossible to get back the full price, many places let students reclaim at least part of it.

Mix baking soda and icing sugar in equal parts and leave it in small piles around the infested room.

Fill a bottle with water and a few drops of peppermint oil and spray those bad boys to their deaths.

If you don't live in an apartment, plant mint along the side of your house.

Use chalk. Ants tend to move away from any chalk lines.

Put out piles of corn meal; ants can­ not digest it properly and will carry it home to try to eat.

Do the same thing with Cream of Wheat. Do not cook it first. It will expand when the ants eat it.

Sprinkle powdered red chili pepper, paprika, dried peppermint or borax on ant trails, in cracks and near entryways to prevent them from moving in.

If you can find the anthill, make a nat­ ural repellent of citrus peelings and water in a blender and pour it over.

Diatomaceous Earth is arguably the most effective natural solution. It is made of fossilized algae with tiny, sharp edges that cut through the bug's exoskeleton— poisoning or dehydrating the insect. It is most ef­ fective when applied to the cracks the ants are using to get in and can be purchased at any hardware store. Some baby powders even contain Diatomaceous Earth. ■

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literature, philosophy and art.

Location: 469 Milton St. T e le p h o n e : 514- 845-5640 H o u rs: M o n - W e d 10a .m . — 6p .m „ T h u rs -F ri S a t 11a .m . — 6p .m .

10a .m . — 9p .m .,

The McGill Bookstore The most obvious place to sell back textbooks is the university-run McGill Bookstore. You'll get up to 50% of the cover price— a percentage determined by whether McGill, other Canadian universities or wholesalers are going to use the book. The less the demand, the lower the buyback price. The condition of the book, however, is meaningless, so instant cash is guaranteed. While the of­ ficial buyback period for the fall semester is Sept. 4 -7 , they accept used textbooks year-round, since wholesalers will still want them. Find out how much you'll receive for your textbooks at w w w .m c g ill.c a /b o o k s to r e /c a s h fo r b o o k s .

Haven Books Run by students, Haven sells on consignment at a price that you set, although their website recom­ mends you stay between 25% and 75 % of the original.

When— and if— the book sells, you'll be notified by email and receive a cheque for 80 %. If the book hasn't sold within i 2 months, pick it up; if it’s still there in 14 months, it becomes the property of Haven Books.

Although they cater to the student population, they don't accept course books or lab manuals, since the content usually changes from year to year. Haven Books does accept reference books and novels, but only if you're willing to price them very cheaply.

L o c a tio n : 3420M c T a v is h St.

Location: 2074 Aylmer St.

Telephone: 514-398-7444 H o u rs : M o n - S a t 10a .m . — 5p .m . (d iffe re n t fr o m fu ll s to re

T e le p h o n e : 514- 844-8881 H o u rs : M o n - F r i 10a . m .— 6 p .m .

h o u rs )

The Word Bookstore Rewarding careful— or lazy— students over abusive ones, The Word only accepts books in good condition.

"We have to be sure we'll resell,"says Adrian King-Edwards, who owns the store with his wife, Lucille. "We're very selective.'To that end, The Word only buys about a hundred titles a semester— books that appear on a list posted in the store window or available for pick up inside. Students can expect to get 40 -50% of the original cover price, in cash and immediately. The buyback periods start in midAugust, mid-December and mid-April, and lasts about a month. The rest of the year, The Word carries books on

M cGill

O n lin e There are many websites that will help you sell used textbooks, including The McGill Classifieds, eBay, and Facebook Marketplace, among others. Elisa Rosen, Management U3, has been selling her text­ books online for the past three years. "The [McGill] Bookstore gives you maybe $15 when they're easily worth half-price," says Rosen, who says she manages to sell about 70 % of what she posts. "I look at what other people are selling, and the price at the Book­ store, and the condition of the book." Selling online also lets you compare prices and avoid dirty looks for defacing Dante. ■

LEARN MORE ABOUT CANADA! The M cG ill Institute fo r the S tudy of C anada

Student Inform ation The Scholarships and Student Aid Office will offer the Work Study Program for 2007/2008 with funds from the University and the McGill Alumni Association, grants from the Quebec Minister of Education, and contributions from the Arts and Science Undergraduate Societies.

What is Work Study?

McGill’s Work Study Program offers part-time, on-carapus job opportunities to full-time degree students who demonstrate financial need. Eligible employers benefit from subsidized labour costs when Work Study students are hired.

offers a variety of exciting courses this fall: n

C A N S 200 Introduction to the Study of Canada

v

C A N S 300 La culture québécoise et ses contextes transnationaux

v

C A N S 301 Canadian Music

v

C A N S 301 Canadian Public Policy

■ n C A N S 303 Native Studies Issues: The Past Meets the Present n

C A N S 401 The Canadian Labour Market: Issues and Trends

■* C A N S 402 Literary Montreal

How do I apply?

Applications can be submitted online through the Financial Aid Menu on MINERVA. For complete program details, please consult the Work Study website at: www.is.mcgill.ca/studentaid/workstudy.

The next application deadline is Monday, September 10, 2007.

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CA N S 404 Consumer Culture in Canada

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CA N S 405 Immigration and Multiculturalism in Canada

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C A N S 406 Canadian Broadcasting Policy

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CA N S 501 Interdisciplinarity & Canadian Studies

Check out our CANS Minor, Major, Honours, and Joint Honours degrees: http://misc-iecm.mcgill.ca/ >V McGill InstitutefortheStudyofCanada V* L'Institutd'étudescanadiennesdeMcGill VVC**

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Perhaps Flowards should make a trip up to McGill

M eghna M arjadi The next time you eat french fries at McDonald's, rest as­ sured that your purchase isn't just expanding your waistline and the profits of those golden arches, but is also adding to the res­ taurant's used oil supply.

Why should we care about used oil? In July of this year, McDonald's implemented a new recycling system in the UK for their used oil. Previously, their restaurants had been sending the used oil away to recycling plants at no benefit to the company.

Their new plan, however, involves taking the excess vegetable oil from 900 restaurants in the UK and putting it back into the com­ pany by using it as fuel for the bulk of the McDonald's UK delivery trucks. This helps McDonald's save on gas prices and oil disposal costs while also allowing them to bask in positive PR for being a frontrunner in environmentally friendly businesses.

When the process of converting the UK's 155 delivery truck fleet to a vegetable oil system is complete, the environmental impact, according to a McDonald's press release, will be equal to taking 2,424 family cars (ie. Ford Focuses) off the road each year, or saving 1,675 tons of carbon. If this project proves successful, it is likely McDonald's will start implementing it in other countries, such as Canada and the United States.

It appears Ronald McDonald is starting to wear more green, and if even he is doing it, why isn't every environmentally con­ scious drive-thru customer turning to vegetable oil and biodiesel for their fuel needs?

Cashing in on free fuel McDonald's is not the only entity reeling in on this oppor­ tunity. Mark Flowards, the owner of a vegetable oil conversion company 3D Shapes in Sharon, Massachusetts, has worked with universities like Flarvard and Roger Williams to find a better use for the vats of vegetable oil they previously threw away. At Flar­ vard, he converted an Isuzu box truck— the truck the university used to pick up recycling— to use vegetable oil.

At Roger Williams, he converted a Ford shuttle bus to a veg­ etable oil system for on and off campus use. The shuttle, which will be used by many different drivers, will have “a system that can monitor times and temperatures and drives totally without any driver interaction regarding fuel," says Flowards. "Universities are great places for these systems because they usually have a good supply of waste vegetable oil that they currently pay to have removed and they usually have lots of diesel vehicles."

The environmental impact of excess oil Besides avoiding the otherwise costly disposal of used cooking oil, using these fuels means less time at the pump filling up on nonrenewable and increasingly scarce gasoline. Moreover, most restaurants are willing to give away their used vegetable oil for free because they are usually required to pay a disposal fee. Cars that run on vegetable oil also emit fewer pollutants.

"It is a relatively closed carbon cycle. The CO2 that is released by vehicles is recaptured by the plants when they grow, so it is generally seen as at least a 75% reduction in CO2 emissions ver­ sus petroleum products,"explains Fiowards.

Research performed by the United States National Biodiesel Board shows use of biodiesel in a conventional diesel engine results in substantial reduction of unburned hydrocarbons (which are ozone and smog formation precursors), carbon mon­ oxide and particulate matter compared to emissions from diesel fuel. The exhaust emissions of some major components of acid rain, sulfur oxides and sulfates, are es­ sentially eliminated in biodiesel emissions, whereas in die­ sel engines this is not the case. Furthermore, studies done by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) show that the ozone forming potential of the hydrocarbon emissions from biodiesel run cars is 50% less than that of regular diesel.

Biodiesel vs. vegetable oil Biodiesel is chemically altered vegetable oil or animal tallow that can be purchased for around $2.00 to $3.00 a gallon. Veg­ etable oil, on the other hand, is usually burned as 100% straight vegetable oil, which means its use is more beneficial to the envi­ ronment. The chemical alteration of oil to make biodiesel, how­ ever, allows it to be put directly into a diesel engine while the vegetable oil (and the engine itself) must be heated and the oil filtered in a home plant before being used. Once the engine is used, the vegetable oil must be purged from the cylinders before it cools.

At least vegetable oil is dirt cheap, if not free. But it's not as simple as merely pouring a bottle of canola oil into your old gas tank. A tank

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L 0 r the use of veg­ etable oil must be purchased and vegetable oil car owners must do the dirty work of filtering the oil themsevles and outfitting their own cars.

You have to keep the engine hot In some cold climates, like Montreal's, the fuel can freeze if you leave it in the car for too long.This means that if you leave the vegetable oil in the car while you run into Provigo in the middle of January, you may run into a slight problem when you return.

"That is the main issue with vegetable oil. It has much greater viscosity, especially at lower temperatures, so heat is used to alleviate this,"says Flowards.

Flowever, it is possible to use diesel during the winter and vegetable oil during the warmer months with the purchase of the right tank and kit. This will still save you money and reduce emissions.

There is some concern as to the use of vegetable oil and the well being of a car engine. The diesel engine has barely changed since Rudolph Diesel introduced it in 1892. In fact, his aim in mak­ ing the diesel engine was to leave it open to using many different fuels. At the World Fair in 1900 , he demonstrated the engine using peanut oil to fuel it.

The last drawback— or advantage, depending on your sense of smell— is the food-flavoured scent that will emanate from your car exhaust and probably bury itself in your clothes.

Needless to say, McDonald's used oil will smell like french fries, which means that you and your car will, too.

The long and greasy road ahead It would seem the way for vegetable oil fuel to be ef­ fective is for car companies to build an industry around it. Flow­ ever, this is not necessarily a viable option.

"It is not a fuel system that I think the auto manufacturers will pursue," says Flowards. "There is no infrastructure in place to distribute it as fuel. It is not an EPA-approved fuel and I think biodiesel is the approach that they are on-board with."

For now, vegetable oil run yehicles can be left to the cost effective universities (will McGill be next?) and good old Ronald McDonald. At least those Big Macs are going to good use. ■

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05.09.07 -The McGill Tribune • 13

TOP 10

Drink

Writers Wanted!

DO YOU WANT TO WRITE FOR FEATURES? ITS NOT HARD TO

d e a ls T o p

GET INVOLVED.

u p

y o u r w a lle t C onor G raham A new school year is upon us, and there's no better way to deal with stress than drinking until you lose control of ail your bodily functions.

Fortunately, Montreal is rife with op­ portunities to get smashed on the cheap. Here's a top ten list of familiar places and their specials.

The Cock and Bull: 1944 SteCatherine W. This bar is a Con­ cordia staple that hosts arts and crafts night every Monday to both amuse the drunks and give people who aren't drinking something to do. It's a lot of fun, but sometimes smells like hip­ pies. Bring cologne.

2. Brutopia: 1219 Crescent St. By the end of your first week in Montreal, you should have gone to this bar. Home-brewed beer at reasonable prices and live music most nights make this an easy favourite, as do special lim­ ited edition beer around some of the major holidays and trivia Mondays.

3. Carlos and Pepe's: 1420 Peel St. Delicious bad Mexican food with amazing prices: dollar taco and dollar beer Tuesdays as well as twonie nacho and twonie draft beer Wednesdays. Just up from the corner of Ste-Catherine and Peel.

4. Vol de Nuit: 14 Prince Arthur St. E. Two drinks any night for $6.50 before 7 , or $7.50 after, on the corner of Prince Arthur and St-Laurent. The ultimate dive, al­ ways a good place to end your night.

5. Bar des Pins: 3417 Parc Avenue.

Beerpong Tuesdays at BDP. Cheep beer, entertainment and close enough to New Rez that you could make it in the winter without a coat.

6.

Le Sainte-Elizabeth Pub: 1412 St. Elizabeth. One of the harder places to find in Montreal, it's just up from St. Catherine on right before St-Denis. S3 pint Mondays and a fantastic back patio.

7. McKibbins: 1426 Bishop. Irish as the day is Jong, Monday pub thumpers trivia, and Thursday they have their own brand of pub idol karaoke.They also make incredible sangria, but only if you know the bartender.

8.

Benelux: 245 Sherbrooke St. W. Practically in the McGill Ghetto and a long happy hour (3-8 p.m.).

Pints are always less than $6 for in-house creations.Try the stout.

9. Bar St. Sulpice: 1680 St-Denis.

Sit on the amazingly big terrace or inside in one of their themed rooms. Specials for pints and pitchers.

10. Buy your own. It sounds use­ less, but picking up your own collection and mixing from that can be great. It's fun to do, it's fun to watch, you'll save a huge amount of money, and if noth­ ing else, you can at least be sure that nobody's watered it down.

COM E TO THE FEATURES MEETING AT 5:30 EVERY TUESDAY AT GERTS. FIRST MEETING SEPTEMBER 11.

FEATURES@ MCGILLTRIBUNE.COM

1.

WARM-SPARK WRITING GROUP WARM (Writing About Research at McGill) SPARK (Students Promoting Awareness of Research Knowledge)

Writeaboutresearchfornewspapers, magazines, radio, andtheweb.

Join WARM-SPARK, a unique opportunity for McGill undergraduate and graduate students fromall faculties. Selected students will write articles for a general audienceabout McGill Universityresearch, theywill workasawriting community andedit each other’s texts. The goal is to publish articles about researchatMcGill inuniversityandlocal media The programaccommodates upto 8 writers andparticipants must beable to attend weekly meetings (Wednesdays from 5:00-7:00 p.m.) throughout the academicyear. Formoreinformationvisit: www.spark.mcgill.ea.

Students interested injoining the WARM-SPARK writingcommunity should contactthementorslistedbelowbySeptember 17th,2007.

Prof. LindaCooper, FacultyofScience HannahHoag, ScienceJournalist warm.spark@tanail.com S upported by th e VP Research O ffice , A ssociate V ice -P rin cip a l (C om m unica tion sf the F aculties o f A g ric u ltu ra l & E nvironm e nta l Sciences, A m , E ngineering, M e d kin e , a n d Science,

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INTRAMURAL SPORTS LEAGUES

LEVELS

COST

REGISTRATION DATES

PLAYERS TO REGISTER

GAME DAYS

LOCATION

BALL HOCKEY

MEN & WOMEN

COMPETITIVE INTERMEDIATE RECREATIONAL

$ 120.00 per team

August 27, 9:00 to September 18, 17:00

8

Mon, Tues & Sunday

Fieldhouse A &B

BASKETBALL

MEN & WOMEN

COMPETITIVE INTERMEDIATE RECREATIONAL

$ 120.00 per team

August 27, 9:00 to September 18, 17:00

8

Tues, to Fri. Weekends

Gymnasium 1 &2

FLAG FOOTBALL

MEN & WOMEN

$ 120.00 per team

August 27, 9:00 to September 11, 17:00

8

Monday & Sunday

Forbes Field

ICE HOCKEY

MEN & WOMEN

August 27, 9:00 to September 11, 17:00

11

Mon. to Fri. Weekends

McConnell Arena

OUTDOOR SOCCER

August 27, 9:00 to September 11, 17:00

12

Mon. to Fri. Weekends

Molson Stadium Forbes Field

August 28, 9:00 to September 26, 17:00

1

TBA

Fieldhouse Courts

4 Men & 4 Women

Mon. to Fri. Weekends

Molson Stadium Forbes Field

4 Men & 4 Women

Mon. to Fri.

Gyms 3 & 4 Fieldhouse A &B

2 Men & 2 Women

TBA

Fieldhouse Courts

SPORTS

COMPETITIVE INTERMEDIATE RECREATIONAL COMPETITIVE INTERMEDIATE BEGINNER RECREATIONAL

$575.00 per team

MEN & WOMEN

COMPETITIVE INTERMEDIATE RECREATIONAL

$150.00 per team

TENNIS TOURNAMENT

MEN & WOMEN

COMPETITIVE INTERMEDIATE

$15.00 per player

ULTIMATE DISC

CO REC

COMPETITIVE INTERMEDIATE RECREATIONAL

$ 120.00 per team

August 27, 9:00 to September 11, 17:00

MEN, WOMEN & CO REC

COMPETITIVE INTERMEDIATE RECREATIONAL

$ 120.00 per team

August 27, 9:00 to September 18, 17:00

COMPETITIVE INTERMEDIATE

$30.00 per team

TBA

CO REC

VOLLEYBALL

VOLLEYBALL 4 ON 4 Tournament

8

PLEASE NOTE THAT REGISTRATION DEADLINES ARE STRICTLY ENFORCED SPACE IN MOST SPORTS IS LIMITED - REGISTER EARLY

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A tte n d th e Free A g e n ts' M e e tin g an d co m e p re p a re d to p ay y o u r p o rtio n o f th e te a m e n try fe e .

Flag Football, Outdoor Soccer, Ultimate, & Ice Hockey: Friday September 7,2007

Ball Hockey, Basketball, and Volleyball: FridaySeptember 14,2007 T h e Free A g en ts' M eetin g s b eg in 6 1 7 : 3 0 in th e Tom linson Hall A triu m (2nd Floor Field ho u se)

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T H E R E C A CTIVITIES card provides users with $25 worth of recreational services and activities for $20 and may be purchased in the Client Services Office (G-20C).

Although exact change will continue to be accepted at all activity areas, presentation of your Rec Activities card to the attendant in charge will result in savings of up to 20 %.

SCHEDULE Schedules for intramural sports can be found on the INFORMATION Department of Athletics Website www.athletics.mcgill.ca M cG ill ATHLETICS

IN F O R M A T IO N : S I 4 - 3 9 8 - 7 0 1 I

F A L L

2 0 0 7

F IT N E S S A N D R E C R E A T IO N C O U R S E S DAY & TIME

COURSE

COST

WKS

AQUATICS A d ults Learn To Sw im (Level 1 Beqinner) Adults Learn To Sw im (Level 2 & 3 Interm ediate) Sw im Fit (Cardio-Respiratory Endurance) Stroke Im provem ent

Monday Saturday W ednesday Saturday Tues & Thurs

18:30-19:25 11:15-12:10 18:30-19:25 11:15-12:10 18:30-19:25

37.73/55.28

8

33.34/68.44

8

W ednesday

18:30-19:25

24.57/42.12

8

Friday Monday W ednesday Friday Friday

16:30-18:25 17:00-17:55 17:00-17:55 19:00-19:55 18:30-21:55

74.58/96.52 37.73/59.67 37.73/59.67 37.73/59.67 32.47

10 10 10 10 20

DANCE Ballet Belly Dancing Belly Dancing Club Latin Contem porary Dance (Students ONLY - Audition Required) Flam enco Hip Hop

REGISTRATION INFORMATION • Register in the Client Services Office of the Sports Centre Monday through Friday 08:30 - 19:45 hrs. • Registration starts August 20,2007 • Non-members registered in courses may use the facility only during their designated class times.* Most classes begin the week of September 17,2007 • Pay-As-You-Go classes begin September 17 and run until December 14,2007 • Classes will not be held October 8,2007. • Full-time McGill students may register at the member's rate.

Prices do not include GST & PST DAY & TIME

COURSE

19:00-20:25 18:00-18:55 19:00-19:55 19:00-19:55 18:00-18:55 20:00-21:25 17:00-18:25 18:30-19:55 19:00-20:25 19:00-20:25 18:00-18:55 19:00-19:55 20:30-21:55

50.89/72.83 37.73/59.67

10 10

Squash

50.89/72.83 80.73/124.60 80.73/124.60 50.89/72.83 50.89/72.83 37.73/59.67 37.73/59.67 50.89/72.83

10 10 10 10

Squash Inter

10 10 10

17:00-17:55 19:00-19:55 12:00-12:55 12:00-12:55 19:00-19:55 18:00-18:55 17:00-17:55 17:00-17:55 09:00-17:00

37.73/81.61 37.73/81.61 19.31/41.24 37.73/81.61 37.73/81.61 37.73/81.61 37.73/81.61 37.73/81.61 75.59/83.36

10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 1

M onday & Wed. Tuesday & Thurs.

M onday & Wed. Tuesday & Thurs.

Friday M onday & W ed.

Tuesday & Thurs.

Friday M onday & Wed. Tuesday & Thurs.

Saturday M onday & Wed. Saturday Thursday M onday & Wed.

09:00-17:00 11:00-11:55 08:00-08:55 16:00-16:55 18:15-19:25 19:30-20:40 08:00-08:55 16:00-16:55 17:15-18:25 17:00-18:10 17:15-18:25 18:00-18:55 18:00-18:55 16:30-17:55 17:00-17:55 13:00-14:10 14:30-15:40 13:00-13:55 17:00-17:55 12:00-12:55 18:00-19:25 11:00-11:55 20:00-21:25 18:00-18:55

48.26/57.04 29.83/51.77 32.46/67.56 32.46/67.56 50.89/94.76 40.36/75.46 40.36/84.23 32.46/67.56 40.36/75.46 40.36/75.46 50.89/94.76 37.73/81.61 61.42/105.30 46.51/68.44 40.36/84.23 50.89/94.76 26.32/48.26 40.36/84.23 40.36/84.23 20.18/42.12 92.13/136.00 19.31/41.24 26.33/43.87 40.36/84.23

1 10 8 8 10 8 10 8 8 8 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10

Tuesday & Friday Mon., W ed., Fri. Monday & Wed. M onday & Wed. Tuesday & Saturday M onday & Wed. Tues., Thurs., Fri. Tues., Thurs., Fri. M onday & Wed. Tuesday & Thurs.

18:00-19:55 17:00-19:55 16:30-17:55 17:30-19:25 19:30-21:25 20:00-21:55 09:00-10:55 15:00-16:25 20:30-21:25 19:00-20:25 19:30-21:25 20:00-21:55

80.73/124.60

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71.95/115.82 64.93/108.81 64.93/108.81 64.93/108.81

10 10 10 10

49.13/93.10 49.13/114.95 71.95/137.77 64.93/108.81 64.93/108.81

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M onday & W ed.

Tuesday & Thurs.

M onday & Wed. Thursday Friday W ednesday Saturday Saturday Monday Monday Tuesday Tuesday W ednesday W ednesday Thursday Thursday Friday

08:00-08:55 20:00-20:55 20:00-20:55 14:45-16:15 14:45-16:15 15:00-16:15 10:30-11:20 11:30-12:20 16:00-16:45 17:30-18:15 16:45-17:30 17:30-18:15 12:15-13:00 13:00-13:45 16:00-16:45 16:45-17:30 08:30-09:15

42.12/77.22

8

42.12/77.22 49.14/66.69

8 8

W ednesday Tuesday (beqinner) Tuesday Thursday Friday Thursday Tuesday & Thurs.

Tuesday & Thurs.

Monday Tuesday Thursday Thursday Tuesday

Irish Dance Jazz 1 & II Jazz II & III Latin Dance Lindv Hop 1- Sw in q Dance M iddle Eastern Dance Social Dance

Tennis Intro

FITNESS & W ELLNESS M onday & Wed. Tuesday & Thurs.

Saturday M onday & Wed. M onday & Wed. Tuesday & Thurs.

M onday & Wed. Tuesday & Thurs.

Saturday, TBA Sunday, TBA Sunday TBA Sunday M onday & Wed.

Abs, Back 8i Bootie Body Design Body W orks Boot Cam p Cardio Jam Classic Cardio CPRXFirst Aid CPR Re-Cert De-Tox Cycle H atha Yoga 1

Tuesday & Thurs.

H atha Yoga II Kick, Punch, Jive & Jam Pedal Jam Pedal 8, Pump Pilâtes Pilâtes Pilâtes 1 & Il P ow er Yoga

Spin & Trim Step Tai Chi Yoga For Athletes

Aikido Capoeira Judo Karatedo Kendo Kickboxinq Kickboxing - Savate I Kickboxing - Savate II Tae K w on Do Shaolin

8 10

SPORTS Fencing I Fencinq II Hockey I Hockey II Skating

Squash Intro

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M ARTIAL ARTS

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SPORTS

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50.02/67.57 34.22/51.77

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23.69/36.86

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Friday Friday Friday Friday Saturday Sunday M onday Thursday Saturday Sunday Monday Monday Tuesday W ednesday Thursday Saturday Sunday Monday Tuesday Tuesday W ednesday Thursday Saturday Tuesday W ednesday Thursday

09:15-10:00 14:30-15:15 15:15-16:00 16:00-16:45 10:45-11:30 11:30-12:15 16:45-17:30 17:30-18:15 11:30-12:15 12:15-13:00 16:00-16:55 20:00-20:55 17:00-17:55 14:00-14:55 17:00-17:55 09:30-10:55 10:00-11:25 21:00-21:55 16:00-16:55 19:00-19:55 15:00-15:55 18:00-18:55 11:00-12:25 18:00-18:55 16:00-16:55 19:00-19:55

23.69/36.86

6

23.69/36.86

6

30.71/43.87 30.71/43.87 30.71/43.87 30.71/43.87 30.71/43.87 30.71/39.49 30.71/39.49 30.71/43.87 30.71/43.87 30.71/43.87 30.71/43.87 30.71/43.87 30.71/39.49 30.71/43.87 30.71/43.87 30.71/43.87

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Saturday Sunday Sat., Septem ber 22 Sat., Septem ber 29 Sat., O ctober 20 Sun., O ctober 28 Sat., N ovem ber 3 Sun., N ovem ber 4 Sat., N ovem ber 24 Sat., Septem ber 22

13:30-15:25 13:30-15:25 A l l Day

140.39/149.17 140.39/149.17 43.88/48.26

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M onday & W ed.

Tuesday & Thurs.

M onday & Friday Tuesday & Thurs.

Tuesday, Thursday Tuesday & Thursday Tuesday & Thurs.

Tuesday & Thurs.

Tuesday & Thurs.

Mon. and W ed.

Tuesday & Thurs.

M onday & W ed.

Monday, W ed.

M onday & W ed.

M onday & W ed.

M onday & W ed.

12:15-13:00 13:00-13:45 12:00-12:45 12:30-13:15 12:15-13:00 13:00-13:45 12:30-13:15

$13.16 $13.16 $13.16

13 13 13

$13.16 $13.16 $13.16

13 13 13

13:00-13:45 13:00-13:45 12:00-12:45 12:15-13:00 12:15-13:00 12:00-12:45 12:15-13:00 13:00-13:45 13:00-13:45 13:00-13:45

$13.16 $13.16 $13.16 $13.16 $13.16 $13.16 $13.16 $13.16 $13.16 $13.16

13 13 13 13 13 13 13 13 13 13

18:00-18:55 17:00-17:55 18:00-18:55 17h00-17h55 17h30-18h25 18:00-18:55 12:00-12:55

2.19 2.19 2.19 2.19 2.19 2.19 2.19

O UTDOOR PURSUITS Equestrian Hiking

Rock Climbing

A ll

Day

70.20/78.97

STAFF FITNESS Aqua Fitness Badm inton Belly Dancing Body Design Body Design Dance Aerobics Easy Rider Hatha Yoga 1 H atha Yoqa II Pilâtes - Intro Pilâtes - Advanced Pow er Yoga Lite Recess Stretch & Strenqth Tai Chi Tennis

FITNESS & W ELLN ESS (Pay-As-You-Go) Monday Tues W ednesday Thursday Friday Friday Sunday

STEP TAE BOX BOOT CAM P BODY DESIGN POWER Y O G A SPIN AEROBICS ONE ON ONE Fitness Appraisal (Private) Personal Training (Private) Personal Training (Semi-Private) Skating (Private) Skating (Semi-Private) Squash (Private) Squash (Semi-Private) Sw im (Private) Sw im (Semi-Private) Tennis (Private) Tennis (Semi-Private)

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appointm ent appointm ent appointm ent appointm ent appointm ent appointm ent appointm ent appointm ent appointm ent appointm ent appointm ent

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M c G ill ATHLETICS

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T h e y 're o n ly in it for th e fu n n y L o c a l fu n n y m a n

b r in g s a m b it io n

J ohn S em ley Montreal has a long-standing reputa­ tion for its comedy. From the annual Just For Laughs festival to jokes about the Habs or the driving skills of Québécois motorists, it seems as if the city is practically teeming with come­ dic promise. But while any number of Just For Laughs press materials or TV spots may tout her as the "funniest city on the planet" and though the July comedy festival, the largest of its type in the world, may provide a more-than-ample number of palpable outlets for your chuckles, chortles, titters and guffaws, many feel that much of Montreal's latent comedic energy lies largely dormant.

Such is the view of David Schultz, local stand-up and the architect behind Comedy on’ St— Laurent, a new weekly comedy showcase on the Main. "It seemed to me, " says Schultz "that Montreal had a lot of untapped talent and potential." Whereas larger central-Montreal clubs such as the Comedy Nest may quell any labouring comedic longings of Montreal locals, and though West Island venues provide oppor­ tunities for emerging comics to present their material, downtown Montreal was lacking com­

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On the more dismal end parable spots for new of the spectrum were a talent. It was this neces­ bunch of sloppy bits sity, ever the mother of about incest, borderline invention, coupled with racist barbs aimed at Schultz's ambition and foreign highway driv­ passion for live comedy, ers and distasteful (and that birthed Comedy on wholly unfunny) poems St— Laurent. about bestiality and Located at 3 Minots AIDS. on St. Laurent, this week­ Headlining the ly Sunday-night joke evening was Peter Rafest provides a chance domski, one of Mon­ for comics and comedy treal's pre-eminent fans both to indulge comedic talents who, their shared, unadulter­ on top of being voted ated love of laughs in Montreal's Best Standup a casual, comfortable by the Montreal Mirror, bar atmosphere. The sealed his step into the venue, which Schultz limelight with his debut rightly touts as being at this year’s Just For "great for comedy”, is Laughs fest. Working quite nice: big enough DAVID SHULTZ through a well-polished to accommodate a repertoire ofjokes about sizeable crowd with­ M ik e W ard stops to pond er. men's postwar shaving out feeling sprawling, habits, the tragedy of the Swastika's misuse in or foregoing the intimacy of the comedy club (which vitally accommodates all manner of the twentieth century and the renewed appeal of the so-called “Oldy Tymey Rapiste", Radomski audience mockery). managed to make his slew of off-colour ob­ As far as the quality of the performances go, the show on servations not only funny, but also remarkably Aug. 26th, hosted by Ali Fiassan, charming.

Despite his (probably diligently-crafted) provided a rather hefty lineup of ten comics. The material ran the petty and unlikeable demeanour (he comes gamut from absurd, bone-dry across as a mix between a more dour Patton musings (Chason Gordon, Matt Oswalt and Steve Buscemi's character in Ghost O'Neil), to liquor-injected musical Word, Radomski graciously endeared himself to comedy (Tim Rabnett), pointed the audience with his distinctive brand of co­ observations on the handicapable medic irreverence.

Abetting the evening's hilarities were neo(Gemini winner Mike Ward), rumi­ Pachuco rockers Los Incandescentes, 3 Minots’ nations on the difference between "crackheads"and"crack enthusiasts" house band, who entertained the audience (Kris Bonaparte) and anti-hippie with a mix of classic rock covers and original jokes which were both smart and tunes before and after the show. Looking like incisive (Comedy on Saint Laurent the missing members of Fu Manchu, Los Incan­ founder Schultz, who, as it is often descentes moved throuh a solid catalogue of said in the industry, killed his set). tunes by Black Sabbath, the Beatles, the Doors

co m e d y sp o t and Dick Dale (donning authentic Mexican wrestling masks during their rendition of the latter's "Misirlou").

A weekly Sunday-night fixture as of Sept.

9th, Comedy on St— Laurent looks to provide more than the regular cavalcade of local com­ ics. “You'll never see the same two performers week-to-week,"says Schultz. He is also currently pursuing more extra-comedic talent, such as a beat-boxer to warm the crowd up.

With the assurance of such diverse enter­ tainment, cheap drink specials and special rates for large groups (as it stands, the per person cover charge is a measly five bucks), Schultz's Comedy on St. Laurent promises to bring some­ thing fresh, lively and, perhaps best of all, funny to the often-tired parade of chic dance clubs, overly-familiar beer halls and topless dance establishments which constitute the bulk of Montreal's nightlife. ■ Comedy on St— Laurent goes down every Sunday night at 9 p.m. at 3 Minots, 3812 St— Lau­ rent, just above Pins.

DAVIDSHULTZ P eter R adom ski lays d o w n th e law!

POP RHETORIC

S t ill p la y in g

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(F M ) b a n d E zra G unter

've got a friend who listens to nothing but classic-rock radio. It's his one and only source for music wherever and whenever he needs his tunes—work, home, what­ ever. It's a foreign concept to me, really, with my 80 GB iPod and a multi-genre collection of music in my pants pocket at all times. Compared with such technology, FM radio seems like a relic. After all, just about every other medium has by now become obsolete. Even CDs are fading quickly and are just about gone. Remember when people would carry around their music collections in bulky CD binders with their little plastic sleeves? Truly, the days of yore. But radio, somehow, persists. Despite excessive and always obtrusive advertising, despite annoying DJs who spend too much time enjoying the sound of their own voices and not enough time playing music, despite cock-sure morning show hosts who howl like hyenas every thirty seconds at their own unfunny jokes and despite the ago­ nizingly limited and endlessly repetitive play-lists, radio persists. Personally, I start feeling like sticking a gun in my mouth after hearing "Wish You Were Here" for the sixth time in three hours, but apparently this doesn't bother everybody. My aforementioned friend, for example, though he doesn't know the names of most artists or songs (and

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who can catch those fleeting top-of-the-hour announce­ ments anyway?) can sing along to just about the entire classic rock radio repertoire. Sure, FM's major markets are probably motor vehicles and dentists' offices, but what with ever-improving car stereo systems and corporately sanctioned canned music services for every work environ­ ment, even that is impressive. We've even seen the birth and rise of Satellite and XM radio, though those media, I feel, are a category apart from the old FM dial and unde­ serving of treatment in the same newspaper column.

I must grant, however, that I speak as one fortunate enough to be able to afford an iPod, a fact for which I am not ungrateful. And of course, the radio still serves as a medium for new artists and music, so there is a market still big enough to support it. But even for me, despite its many painful and obvious defects, there is a charm and even, I would say, a romance to FM radio that keeps a place even in my own iPod hardened heart.To begin with, there's something about not being able to choose your own music that carries a certain rustic appeal in these days of overwhelming selection and the tyranny of consumer choice (though the near-monopoly of Apple Inc. on the digital music player industry calls that notion severely into

question). As evidenced in the laid-back personality of my radio-listening pal, there's an endearing passivity in radio listening, a willingness to take life as it comes, bad songs and all. Moreover, though ninety-nine times out of a hun­ dred you might wish that the power was in your hands to change the choice made on your behalf, that hundredth time, when the song is perfect for the hour and the place, when they finally play just what you wanted to hear, the gratification is that much greater than if you had played it yourself. It seems as if the hand of fate has extended itself into your life just to play the perfect song. And what makes it even sweeter is the knowledge that not just you, but the entire invisible community of fellow radio listen­ ers tuned in to that station at that time are listening to the same perfect song. After all, what is more romantic than call-in requests, one faithful listener sending a song out to another, communicating privately through such a public forum? It's a bit saccharine, perhaps, but who can resist such sincere sentimentality, even if it is a bit drippy?

Certainly not I. Which is why, though it's rare indeed that I'll relinquish my iPod in favour of the FM band, my hat goes off to this elder media statesman and all of its faith­ ful adherents. ■

05.09.07 •The McGill Tribune • 17

BOOKS

A ta le o f tw o T o lk ie n s C h ild r e n

o f H u r in

fa ils t o

E zr a G u n t e r Christopher Tolkien, the son and literary executor of foun­ dational fantasy writer J.R.R. Tolkien, has a mixed reputation amongst fans of his father's work. For acolytes, he is the un­ disputed high priest ofTolkieana and the final authority on all questions regarding Middle Earth and elvish lore. Amongst the general public, however, he has earned a curmudgeonly repu­ tation for his opposition to Peter Jackson's film adaptations and stated belief that The Lord of the Rings can never be adequately portrayed on screen. It's not a surprising view, especially com­ ing from the editor of The Silmarillion, a dense and deadly bor­ ing history of Middle Earth that, aside from elves, dragons and magical jewels, reads like a cross between the Biblical book of Chronicles and Bede's Ecclesiastical History of the English People.

After having spent most of his life working out the kinks in a vast, intricate and exquisitely detailed made-up mythology, it's no wonder he feels that Hollywood can't do it justice.

What J.R.R. Tolkien's view would have been is anyone's guess (though it was him who originally sold the film rights), but, as he wrote in his seminal 1938 essay "The Monsters and the Critics,""There is no inherent magical virtue about heroic-tragic stories as such, apart from the merits of individual treatments.

The same heroic plot can yield good and bad poems, and good

im p r e s s and bad sagas."

Whether a big-budget movie production is a better or worse treatment than endless lists of elvish arcana may be a matter of taste, but personally I'd opt for the former.

The Children ofHurin, the latest Tolkien publication, though more than names and dates, is still unfortunately closer to the bone dry detail of The Silmarillion than the rollicking, fast-paced epic sweep of The Lord o f the Rings or the fairy-tale whimsy of The Hobbit. Drawing on material already partially presented in works such as The Book of Lost Tales, Hurin tells the story ofTurin, son of Hurin, a tragic-heroic man living during the first age of Middle Earth and struggling under the advancing reign of Morgoth, the original dark lord. In his travels and adventures about Middle Earth Turin fights valiantly against the forces of evil but is repeatedly brought low by the curse laid by Morgoth upon Hurin and his offspring for their defiance of his rule.

Though not in any way a heavy read, it is also not particu­ larly gripping, and the laborious, almost comical, quasi-Biblical prose style (in phrases such as "and to them were gathered many Elves of the Falas and of Norgothrond; and he had great strength of men") often seems gratuitous. Unlike The Lord of the Rings which appeals to both fans of fantasy writing as well as a large general readership, The Children ofHurin is really only of interest to committed Tolkienologists. As Christopher Tolkien

himself writes in the preface, “This book is...primarily addressed to such readers as may perhaps re­ call that the hide of Shelob was so horrendously hard that it could not be pierced by any strength of men.. .or that Elrond named Turin to Frodo at Rivendell as one of the 'the mighty elf-friends of old'; but know no more of him."

The text of the book, culled

by ChristopherTolkien from hand­ written notes and drafts made decades ago by his father, repre­ sents the sort of posthumous ed­ iting that he has made his career of. Though he claims that "there is S om etim es th e cover is no element of extraneous 'inven­ b e tte r th an th e book. tion)" he admits that "the text is nonetheless artificial, as it could not be otherwise." It's unfortunate, however, that he could not make this artificial text of more than limited interest. Given a dif­ ferent treatment, Tolkien's heroic plot may well have been a bet­ ter book. ■

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Upon presentation o f a valid student card from a recognised post-secondary in stitu tio n In the province o f Québec. Offer valid from Saturday, September tst through Sunday, September 30th , 2007. Not valid fo r the Big Ticket Tuesday B undle. N ot valid fo r non-feature film presentations, IftAAX o r 3O features o r film s presented as p art o f the WFF (W orld Film Festival), lim it o f 1 tick e t purchase per s tu d e n t per day. ®Cw eptex E ntertainm ent IP o r used under license.

c o ntinued fro m cover less the same bunch of songs, festi­ val performances are often more un­ hinged. "It's somewhat more freeing," attests Moakes,"to be able to put aside the set-list." No stranger to the festival stage—Moakes and co. have played at many festivals in the UK and North America, including headlining spots at England's Leeds Festival— Bloc Party's danceable and cathartic mope-rock is bound to de­ light wrist and rug-cutters alike.

While big-name acts like Bloc Party and the.

Pumpkins are headlining Osheaga, the two-day event includes many other popular acts, many of whose names have adorned the marquees at Montreal's more notable venues: from folkie Irish dar­ ling Damien Rice, to Blonde Redhead, Interpol, Arctic Monkeys, M.I.A., Explosions in the Sky, Feist, Stars, Macy Gray, Martha Wainwright and the Godfather of Noize himself, Rahzel.

More famous names aside, Os­ heaga also provides a chance for perhaps less illustrious, though by no means less distinguished, groups to play to larger audiences, giving many the opportunity to expose their craft to prospective fans. Voted 2007'Noisemakers of the Year' by the Montreal Mirror, hip-hop/booty bass duoThunderheist take the MEG stage Saturday at 2pm. Thunderheist's MC Isis says that festivals are “great for exposure", allowing "people who may not have heard of [the band] to check us out."

Isis adds that festivals also strengthen the larger music community as they are often "the only time you get to see your friends play." As rising talents who have been running themselves ragged playing dates across Europe and North America over the past six months, Isis and the other half ofThunderheist, DJ Grahmzilla, are an act to watch for.

On the "and Arts" side of Osheaga is the Salon des Arts, which hosts ex­

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hibits by visual and video artists such as Ethan Murrow, Low Fi ME, The ZOO LAB Project, and Randall Finnerty.

More extra-musical activities include a Zen Garden, a late-night screening of Daft Punk's sci-fi film Eiectrorama and Saturday afternoon corn roast hosted by sceney-bopper favorites and certi­ fied custodians of cool Vice Magazine, which features performances by Vice recording artists like Panthers and

Fucked Up and apparently a profusion of delectable, roasted corn.

Even though this year's lineup pales somewhat in comparison to the 2006 edition—which saw per­ formances by heavies such as Sonic Youth, Dinosaur Jr., the Flaming Lips, Ben Harper, Metric, G. Love and Wintersleep—and though previously an­ nounced artists Amy Winehouse and Peter Bjorn & John have been pulled from this year's lineup (both acts opting to perform at the MTV Video Awards instead), Osheaga 2007's di­ verse bill of music, artistic esoteria and, lest we forget, six dollar cups of luke­ warm Molson Dry, is bound to satisfy Montreal's ever-indie-savvy populace, or at least satiate them provisionally until October's Pop Montreal festivities roll around. ■ Osheaga tickets are still available.

Check oufwww.osheaga.com or www. admission.com for ticket information.

Thunderheist fans note that the duo will be selling the last of their limited edition Van Halen logo-inspired t-shirts at Oshega as well, so look into that if you're interested.

The McGill Tribune

18•Arts &Entertainment •05.09.07

Previews

MUSIC

Music. The Banjo Consorsium, Sept. 7 at 9 p.m.; O Patro Vys (356 Mont-Royal E.). Founded by self-taught multi-instrumentalist 'Japh,' this Sher­ brooke-based neo-folk group boasts a unique, avant-garde sound that mixes folk with elec­ tronic music. Their album, A Turning One, has been nominated the best experimental album at GAMIQ (le Gala de l'Alternative Musicale Indépendante du Québec). Tickets are $8.00 at the door.

Music. Exploding Star Orchestra, Sept. 8 at 9 p.m.; Casa del Popolo (4873 St. Laurent). We Are All From Somewhere Else, the debut album of this fourteen piece Chicago jazz outfit tells the story of "an ex­ ploding star, cosmic transformation, a sting ray...in­ telligent conversations with electric eels...and the transformation of bird to phoenix to rocket to flying burning matter to a new-born star." Led by cornetist Rob Mazurek, Exploding Star Orchestra will be taking listeners on an astral voyage to the far reaches of aural space. Call (514) 284-1022 for ticket information —Ezra Glinter

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Film. Your Mommy Kills Animals, opens Sept.7; Cinema du Parc (3575 Parc). Winner of Best Documentary Feature at July's Fantasia Film Festival, Your Mommy Kills Animals takes aim at various controversies and conflicts of opin­ ion within the animal rights movement and between activists and their opponents. Touted by Variety as "a mi­ raculously evenhanded treatment of a snarlingly divisive debate", director Curt Johnson explores the sincerity of radical confrontationists and raises much needed ques­ tions about the pragmatism of more extreme strains of militant activism.

Music. Animal Collective, Sept. 6 at 9 p.m.; Le National (1220 Ste-Catherine E.). As if all the general hullaba­ loo surrounding this weekend's Osheaga festival isn't enough for live music fans, there are ample doses of noise-pop weirdness going on indoors as well. The NYC-based experimental psych-folk musicians will take the stage in support of their latest release, Strawberry Jam—slated for official release Sept. 10th (though it was leaked online somewhere around mid-July).Tickets are $19; available from www.admission.com.

—John Semley

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Stripes, whose Icky Thump added new layers of both melody (Meg White apparently learned how to play Here at the Tribune Arts & Entertainment desk, fills for this record!) and unencumbered guitar noise to we're all well aware that our protracted four-month the consistently intriguing blues-driven guitar work of publication gap between the end of April and the be­ the Stripes catalogue. With a sound more rooted in the ginning of September leaves our loyal readership sus­ musical traditions of Dixieland than the Motor City, the Icky Thump material proved pended in a state of unknowing­ particularly compelling live, ness: snowed under by an over­ whether at the acoustically whelming sense of cultural vacu­ cavernous Bell Centre on ity which refreshing the Pitchfork the evening of July 6th, or at homepage every twenty-minutes their super-intimate secret simply cannot fill. Well, fear not. show at the Black Watch HQ We have made our perennial fall on Bleury earlier that day, semester return and, in hopes of which rewarded a score of bringing you up to speed, have local fans who had nothing assembled some key goings-on better to do but troll fan of the summer in and around the message boards all day. popular music scene— Montreal Of course, around our and elsewhere. fair metropolis, the usual May 1st saw the release of gang of indie-rock suspects Beyond, the first album by the gave hometown fans their original line-up of Massachusetts due. The Arcade Fire played alt-rock sentimentalists Dinosaur a set of showsat the Maurice Jr. since 1988's Bug, and perhaps Richard Arena May 12th and the best record released under 13th in support of their latest the Dinosaur name since i 9 9 3 's bland pile of whiny, predict­ Where You Been. The tenuous able five-minute crescendos, reunion of original bassist Lou Neon Bible, and Ville-Marie's Barlow (Sebadoh, Folk Implo­ own contribution to the sion) with frontman/guitar goburgeoning "wolf-rock" sub­ liath/aging Cousin It look-alike genre, Wolf Parade, played J. Mascis and drummer Murph a five-night stint at La Sala (Patrick Murphy) proved not only Rossa between August 24th a sort-of return to form for the and 28th, debuting many band, but also revealed a more new songs to be featured on mature, self-assured sensibility their upcoming sophomore to Mascis's song writing (“Almost album.

Ready", "We're Not Alone"). This In other mentionable newfound confidence, however, music news, an August 22nd was largely absent in Mascis' press release revealed that characteristically timid stage asexual Britpop demigod presence during Dinosaur's ar­ Morrissey turned down US dent, frenetic show at Club Soda $75-million to reunite with on June 9th.

Smiths bandmate Johnny Along the lines of rock re­ Marr and play a string of unions, every psych-goth kid's shows in 2008/2009, prov­ favourite Bic-bald heartbreak kid, ing that the self-styled "Ring­ Billy Corgan, reunited the Smash­ leader of Tormentors", evering Pumpkins (that is, he revived veracious, is in it for some­ the name; that is, he and Jimmy thing more than the money.

Chamberlain, who had been con­ On the same day it was an­ sistently collaborating in theform nounced that the long-ir­ of Zwan and the Jimmy Cham­ relevant Rolling Stones, who berlain Complex are the only re­ already have more money turning Pumpkins members) and than god, would throw in plopped out a thoroughly me­ the touring towel once their diocre cash-grab of an album in Biggest Bang— supporting the form of the appallingly mistravelling rock circus has titled Zeitgeist. I call bullshit on ended. All the same, this this reunion, but whatever. The journalist can't help but Pumpkins are headlining Mon­ speculate that it won't be treal's second annual Osheaga long before Mick and Keith Music and Arts Festival on Sep­ are summoned from cryo­ tember 8 th— come punch me genic sleep to do another in the face if you see me looking umpteen date world tour; at all moved during the "Disarm/ whether it be to support Perfect" second encore. some seven-disc Future The more eminently listenShop exclusive DVD box set able rock albums of the summer or to finance Jagger's pre­ came from two of the most con­ sumably perpetual paternity sistent straight-up, sans "indie"hy­ case suits. phen rock bands working today.

Alright, well those are Era Vulgaris, the latest from Josh some of the highlights you Homme's Queens of the Stone Age, dropped on June 12th. And From to p to b o tto m : A rcade Fire's N e o n may have missed this sum­ while still wanting, the low-end B ib le , D in o sa u r Jr.'s B e y o n d , Sm ashing mer, you philistines. Now panache of bygone bassist Nick Pum pkin's Z e it g e is t , Q ueens o f th e Stone go forth and commune and have a chinwag about the Oliveri which underpinned the Age's E r a V u lg a ris. new Diplo EP or Daft Punk Queens' better releases (Rated R, Songs For the Deaf), Era nevertheless provided suffi­ live DVD or upcoming Silver Jews album or whatever cient spells of crunchy, riff-laden rock. Ditto the White the hell it is you people talk about. ■ J ohn S em ley

05.09.07 *The McGill Tribune • 19 ART

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Zeke's Gallery, a mainstay of Montreal's alternative art scene has closed its doors. After 10 years showcasing some of Canada's most inter­ esting contemporary art, owner and curator Chris Hand has decided to move on.

Hand, otherwise known as Zeke Zzyssus (a name he made up in order to be last in the phone book), first opened the gallery at a time when the alternative art scene in Montreal was barely existent.

"When I started," he said, "there was only one gallery, mine, and now there are about a dozen."

In addition to displaying the work of new and emerging artists, Zeke's gallery was also a popular live-music venue and served as the site of many McGill student events, such as poetry readings and journal launches.

As a champion of Canadian art, Hand's effect on the local art commu­ nity has been palpable. Though he won't take direct responsibility for the change, he takes pride in the progress made by the Canadian and Mon­ treal art scenes. "It's thriving," Hand said. "It's vibrant; it's about to knock the world on its ass."

Hand is also the creator of a highly opinionated art blog, which he shut down recently after being slapped with a $25,000 libel suit by PierreAntoine Tremblay, a local art dealer. Created as an extension of the gallery in 2003, the blog hosted audio and video recordings of events hosted at the gallery as well as Hand's frequenty controversial outspoken and unapologetic editorials. Though Hand insists that Tremblay's charge is spuri­ ous, he has decided to play it safe.

"Instead of trying to push the limits of the law and potentially incur the wrath of some judge," he said, "I figured, let's keep it mellow and have a safe summer and so the blog went dark."

Despite the conjunction of the two events, Hand claims that the clo­ sure of the gallery and the blog are unrelated.

"The two are two separate things, like lunch and dinner," he said. "You need both of them to keep healthy but what you had for lunch does not have any influence on what you have for dinner."

Though Hand is currently looking for work and has yet to settle on any future endeavours, he plans to stay in Montreal.

"Since I have worked for my entire life in Montreal's cultural commu­ nity," he said, "it's a fair bet that I will still be working here."

His legal difficulties, however, have left him sceptical about any return to the world of art-blogging.

"This has left a very lousy taste in my mouth," he said. "Obviously at some point you get back on the horse, but right now I have no desire to do it." ■

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Reviews

COMPILED BY EZRA G l INTER

Daniel Kahn and The Painted Bird. The Broken Tongue.

They say that smoking is supposed to be bad for your voice, but one sometimes suspects that throaty croon­ ers such as Tom Waits or Captain Beefheart owe much of their, signature sound to the old cancer sticks. While Berlin based singer-songwriter Daniel Kahn hasn't quite achieved their gravelly vocal depth, after a night of mob­ stirring sing-alongs and a couple packs of cigarettes he comes remarkably close. As his latest album attests, it's when his dark, scratchy, baritone qualities come to the fore that this neo-Yiddish vocalist and master accordionist really comes into his own. The Broken Tongue, recorded with The Painted Bird (a band named after the controversial bestiality and rape-filled Jerzy Kosinski novel) features several such dark and brooding numbers, fore­ most among them the traditional "Nakht un Regn," brilliantly arranged and executed by Kahn and company. Aside from the dirges and smoky cabaret numbers, the album also includes some lighter tunes, such as “The Ballad of Edward Young," whose apparent superficiality is complicated by Kahn's wry, post-modern sensibility. Despite these, as well as several songs that veer dan­ gerously close to sticky-sweet sentimentality, Kahn and Bird are able to pull up in time and deliver a darkly delightful album.

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La Tourelle Orkestra. La Marche aux Vertiges. If you ever thought folk music was just about middle-aged men playing the acoustic guitar and singing in ridicu­ lous falsettos, or even if you thought French-Canadian music was just about foot-stomping, fiddle playing voyageurs in fur hats and red sashes, think again.

La Marche aux Vertiges, the debut album from Quebec City band La Tourelle Orkestra is foot-stomping alright, but it's also complex, innovative and highly original. Combining music from multiple styles and traditions, the young sep­ tet has created something not only new but also infectiously energetic. With its huge array of expertly played acoustic instruments and resonant, mature vocals, the album makes you stop to think, but not before it makes you want to sing along. From the tight yet exploratory "Cavale" to the over-the-top, album capping "Ussa Sa," La Marche aux Vertiges is an unexpected windfall for folk fans from relative newcomers to the world music stage.

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FOOTBALL PREVIEW

R e d m e n s e e k to c a p ita liz e o n fre sh o u tlo o k N ew co ach

h o p e s t o s p a r k M c G ill's r e s u r g e n c e

A aron S igal The McGill locker room had grown tangibly stale after last year's 52-0 playoff loss at the hands of the always-powerful Laval Rouge et Or. This season, however, the Redmen seem to be able to breathe again.

With the hiring of a new skipper, Sonny Wolfe, after former head coach Chuck McMann left the team to join the CFL's Cal­ gary Stampeders, there is an undeniably fresh feeling at Redmen training camp and practice as the squad gears up to build on last year's successes and push deeper into the postseason.The team seems firmly galvanized behind their new leader and is excited about the much-needed change in philosophy.

"I think everyone is really excited with the coaching change," star quarterback and last year's MVP Matt Connell said. "It was a very positive thing. Coach Wolfe has been around the league and came from a strong program at the University of Montreal and he's a great motivator and brings a lot more energy. He's some­ thing new around us and we're just so motivated now— maybe more than ever."

Wolfe was a former head coach at Acadia University, coor­ dinator at Montréal and an assistant for eight seasons here at his alma mater with head coach Charlie Bailie's staff. He has tried to infuse the 2007 Red 'n'White with a sense of accountability, dedication and commitment, qualities many claim were lacking under McMann's tutelage.

"We're doing things a little differently even though some things may look the same," Wolfe explained. "My personal feeling was that the commitment level of many of the guys was not at a sufficient level to play at this level. We've tried to change the outlook of how football should be viewed within the McGill aca­ demic-athletic experience."

Passing still the key Returning plenty of starters on the offensive side of the ball, the Redmen hopes will again lie with their potent passing attack spearheaded by the team's leader, Connell, who is on pace to shatter most significant passing records in school history this year. The all-conference quarterback put up over 2,100 yards last season and finished second in Canadian Interuniversity Sport in completion percentage with a 61-percent clip, but will be ex­ pected to improve on his gaudy 13-interception total while toss­ ing a few more scoring passes.

Helping the offensive centrepiece is an extremely talented receiving corps boasting the likes of SB Erik Galas and WRs Tim Kraemer and Matthew Addona who wreaked havoc on opposi­ tion defences during their breakout campaigns last season. De­ spite the loss of all-Quebec SB Greg Heatherington, the receivers will again be relied upon to stretch opposing defenses as McGill

employs its"spread"offense.

Although clearly the weaker side of the ball and severely lacking in depth beyond their starting crew, the defence sees familiar faces abound as the Red­ men return all their young, but now battle-scarred starters. Led by their defensive lynchpins, linebacker Jean-Nicholas Carrière and defensive back Anthony Lukca, who combined for 64 tackles and five in­ terceptions in 2006, McGill will need to improve its abysmal ly run defence which allowed an astounding 1,857 rushing yards last year.

"Our major philosophy this year is going to be to get in the backfield more," Carrière said. "The basic thing is to run to the ball. We're going to rush the quarterback and quicken up his reads to try and make him throw where he doesn't want to, or we're going to get after the running back."

Running game revamped The Red'n'White plan to see the biggest changes in their rushing game as they enter the season with a fierce battle for the running back slot, a postion that was much neglected in the 2006 campaign. While last year McGill owned the worst running attack in Can­ ada by far— they ran for a dreadful 353 total yards all season, an average of only 44 yards a game— Coach Wolfe intends to provide his offence with a little more balance both to keep defence guessing and to keep blitz pressure off Connell. With returning backs Alex Bussandri and Chris Hayes, and standout freshman David Friedman battling for touches, look for the run­ ning game to take a much more prominent role in the Redmen offense than in past seasons under the more pass-oriented McMann regime.

"Our strength is still passing the ball simply based on our personnel,"Wolfe said. "But if we're to be among the better teams in the conference, we must run the ball. It will help keep pressure off the quarter­ LUKAS BERGMARK back and allow us to control the game more. We will The Redm en will need strong perform ances if they w an t to beat the run quite a bit better than last year."

Coming off a 4-4 campaign and a playoff berth, University o f M ontreal (top) and Laval in the opening weeks o f the season, the squad believes that they will be able to make the leap from mid-level team to title contender in the always-power­ Redmen, as beginning on Thursday, they play the University of ful Quebec conference, although their inability to defeat peren­ Montreal and then visit both the defending Vanier Cup cham­ nial powerhouses Laval, Montreal and Sherbrooke will probably pions Laval and a strong Sherbrooke team for three of their first again resign McGill to a fierce battle for a playoff spot. Yet the four contests. With a solid start to the season, McGill could put it­ team's goal of extending their run deeper into the postseason self in contention, but with expected struggles against top-qual­ does not seem completely out of reach for this more diversified ity opponents, the Red 'n'White could see their season tackled and committed crew, It will be difficult from the outset for the very early on. ■

THIRD MAN IN

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y father could probably still recall the colour of his I shirt on September 28,1972. I'm sure he's not alone I in that, either, because for all Canadians of age at the time, Paul Henderson's last minute goal in the 1972 Sum­ mit Series,has become an "I'll always remember where I was" moment. Future generations of Canadians have been taught that Henderson's tally wasn't just a goal, and 1972 wasn't just a hockey series; they are indispensable pieces of the Cana­ dian national myth. Some even claim that the Summit clash is the defining moment of recent Canadian history. Yet, despite Hockey Canada and the Russian Hockey Federation's noble intentions (of course it couldn't just be a cash grab), I don't think that I'll be regaling my son with vivid memories of the goal that clinches the farcical 2007 Canada-Russia Super Se­ ries.

This entire enterprise, concocted by Hockey Canada's Bob Nicholson and Russia's Vladislav Tretiak (the legendary goalie for the 1972 Soviet side), has a fake, bastardized and Olympic-esque feeling to it, where everyone loves each other and the two countries hold hands while proclaiming that they will always be the vanguards of world hockey together.

This 35th anniversary series, therefore, can't possibly properly commemorate the impact of that original confrontation. In 1972, the fault lines, aided by Cold War geopolitics, were clear:

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Canada was the "good guy" and the torchbearer of democ­ racy, while the USSR was the "evil empire" and represented a feared autocratic system. What began as a clash of differ­ ent hockey styles quickly evolved into a clash of civilizations seemingly to determine which political system was superior.

The Red Army squad, originally thought to be a sorry collection of second-tier players compared to Canada's NHL pros, proved to be an absolute force, boasting now legendary names like Kharlamov, Yakushev and Tretiak. But, at the time, there was an air of mystery surrounding the Russians; they had a secretive Communist government and there was a lack of general Canadian knowledge about the players. During the four games played in Russia, the mystery and paranoia were only intensified by rumours of poisoned food and KGB agents spying on the Canadian team. The Summit Series, in­ tended to be the world's first best-against-best hockey com­ petition, degenerated into war, culminating in Bobby Clarke's infamous two-handed lumberjack chop to the ankle of Soviet superstar Valery Kharlamov.

Call me crazy, but I don't think anyone in 2007's clash will be taking baseball swings with hockey sticks. The com­ memorative edition of the Summit Series lacks the emotion or hatred of the time that transformed that "exhibition" into a full-blown conflict. Firstly, this series isn't even best-on-best

any longer. Instead of pros, who justifiably didn't want to risk their huge contract money for some idiotic commemorative series, Canada and Russia sent their junior teams to fight over a meaningless trophy. But these young stars are the same ones we've all seen at the past few World Junior Champion­ ships and watch every year when the Russian all-star team barnstorms through the Canadian Hockey League (seems like a Canada-Russia series already). We've all seen Russia's Alexei Cherepanov already and know how he'll perform on the ice.

Russian players now dot Canada's major junior program and are the second most populous nationality in the NHL (di­ rectly behind Canadians) with many of these Russian juniors already drafted by NHL franchises. In 1972, nary a Red played in the world's top league.Today's players all know each other, mostly from past tournaments or North American club teams.

The mystery and suspicion that transformed the 1972 series is gone.

So don't expect a particularly hard-fought series. There won't be any stick-swinging at refs a la Canada's J.P. Parise, nor any blatant kicks to the groin from the Russians this time around. Don't expect many Canadian players to fear for their gastronomical safety in today's Russian five-star eateries as they might have in 1972. And most of all, don't expect to re­ member this unholy cash grab in 35 years. ■ '

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The McGill Tribune

22 •Sports •05.09.07

BASKETBALL— ILLINOIS 107, REDMEN 103

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In a game that was expected to be all about Jeff Jor­ dan, son of NBA great Michael Jordan, Sean Anthony and the McGill Redmen almost stole the show.

Jordan's University of Illinois Fighting lllini squeaked out a 107-103 double overtime victory over the Redmen in an exhibition game on Monday afternoon. While mini-Jordan's stat line was uninspiring— he tallied nine points— there was no mistaking who the TV cameras and record breaking crowd of 997 people in the Love Competition Hall came to see. Every time MJ's eldest son touched the ball in the early going there was an audible buzz in the gymnasium, as children and adults focused on the off­ spring of "His Airness". But by the end of the game, all the talk was about McGill's power forward.

Anthony, a fearless senior who plays bigger than his 6'4"frame, led all scorers with 20 points before fouling out early in the first overtime. It was his full court dash from an inbound with 4.6 seconds on the clock, and an eventual Scott Thornhill tip-in as time expired, that forced overtime and erased an Illinois lead that stood at eight points with less than five minutes to play.

"Anthony was a warrior out there for us,” said McGill head coach Scott Norman. "He is the heart and soul of this team, and I fully expect him to be a candidate for Quebec player of the year at the end of this season."

The persistent Redmen managed to hang around throughout the first overtime despite losing .the services of Anthony, and completed an improbable three-point play with less than 1.6 seconds remaining. Michael White, a second year power forward who gave up six inches to his Illinois counterpart Shaun Pruitt, snatched a rebound away from Pruitt and completed a lay-up while being fouled. In the suddenly silent gym, White nailed the extra free throw to send the game into a second overtime.

"We're not going to play a better team than that this season," Norman said. "The positives from that game defi­ nitely outweigh the negatives. We would have loved to have won, but it was a great day for Canadian basketball and a great day for McGill."

The Redmen would eventually be undone in the second overtime period by poor shot selection and bad defensive rebounding, but the lllini were nonetheless suit­ ably impressed.

"I think the basketball is very good [in Canada]"said II-

East

linois head coach Bruce Weber. "It's a different style, which we have to adjust to because the players are much small­ er and are generally better shooters. Tonight was a true showcase of the skill involved in international basketball, and why it has caught up to the States."

The University of Illinois plays Division One NCAA Basketball in the Big Ten Conference and was the NCAA runner-up in 2005. Even though the lllini used some start­ ers sparingly, McGill's success against one of America's best college hoops teams was surprising.

"I don't know if people understand the magnitude of this game. Illinois has one of the best programs in the NCAA. They have a basketball team that has been to the Final Four five times, and we almost won that game," Nor­ man said.

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* «atom*

SARA YOUSEFNEJAD Jeff Jordan guards M cgill PG S am uel G o u let.

Even Jordan sounded impressed.

"They gave us a definite challenge. They can really play up here, and you saw that tonight when they gave us a run for our money."

And any time you can impress a kid who grew up in MJ's locker room with the Chicago Bulls dynasty of the 1990's, you know you're doing something right.*

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Ontario M edical School Application Service 15, 2007:

October 1 ,

2007:

Application deadline

O LSA S

Ontario Law School Application Service November May 1 , TEAS

1, 2 0 0 7 : 2008:

Application deadline - Upper year

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30, 2007:

Application deadline

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W a s h in g to n R edskins:The Skins, like most recent years, will bring up the rear of the division as this team lacks in all areas. Neither secondyear QB Jason Cambell or RB Clinton Portis inspire fear among opposi­ tion defences and Washington-only has undersized Santana Moss as a wideout threat, In their abysmal 5-11 season, even Greg Williams'once dominating defence was reduced to the bottom third of the league in all major categories. Simply put, if the legendary Joe Gibbs can't find his way through this maze, the Skins are doomed yet again.

O RPAS

Ontario Rehabilitation Sciences Programs Application Service (Audiology, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy/Physiotherapy, Speech-Language Pathoiogÿ) January

15, 20 08:

Application deadline

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------1 O NTARIO U N IV E R SITIE S' A PPLICATIO N CENTRE J y 5'

) C E N TR E DE DEM AN D E D'ADMISSIO N A U X U NIVERSITÉS DE L'ONTARIO

-Matt Chesser

N e w York G iants: The departure of Pro Bowl RB Tiki Barber for the booth will leave a massive hole in the backfield that newly aquired RB Reuben Droughns will try to fill. QB Eli Manning is on the hot seat this season, and without Barber to alleviate the pressure, he will have to get rid of the ball quickly. Although he has led some fourth-quarter drives, there still seems to be an air of non-confidence with Manning among his teammates. Also, the team has to be rattled by DE Michael Strahan's retirement/holdout saga, which finally ended when the perennial Pro Bowler showed up to camp on Monday.

Application deadline - First year

Teacher Education Application Service November

£ <

M ia m i D olphins: What a difference a year makes. At this point 12 months ago. Sports Illustrated predicted a Super Bowl visit for the Dolphins. Fast forward to the present and even a playoff berth seems like a pipe-dream for Miami fans. The Dolphins still need an answer to their quarterbacking woes, and 37-year-old Trent Green is not the solution. Otherworldly DE Jason Taylor will anchor a strong defensive seven, but strength of schedule in the brutally tough AFC will ultimately sink the'Fins.

P h ila d e lp h ia Eagles: Even though he refuses to stop whining about his political position on the team, there is no doubt that the Eagles go as QB Donovan McNabb goes. If he can rebound from injuries and doubts after former back-up Jeff Garcia outplayed him, the Eagles should challenge for a playoff spot. With LB Jeremiah Trotter recently cut, and McNabb, S Brian Dawkins and DE Jevon Kearse all in their 30s, the Eagles must feel a sense of urgency to win now.

Last day to register for on-line applications

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O)

B u ffalo Bills: Experience, or rather a lack thereof, may be the only thing that holds back the 2007 version of the Buffalo Bills. Emerg­ ing QB J.P. Losman is protected by a solid offensive line and has a great target in WR Lee Evans, which should translate into big yards through the air. Rookie RB Marshawn Lynch is an unknown quan­ tity, as is a defence that will feature a host of inexperienced players and might struggle to gel in the early-going.

D allas C ow bo ys*: After suffering a crushing playoff loss against Seattle, the'Boys have looked to defensive specialist Wade Phillips to take them where the leg­ endary Bill Parcells could not: the Super Bowl. Dallas looks like a serious contender this year, with a strong defence anchored by LB DeMarcus Ware and his 11.5 sacks in 2006, and a dangerous offence spearheaded by wonder-kid CV QBTony Romo and the always-exciting WR Terrell Owens. If Romo can u put that fumbled snap behind him, America's Team will be in the hunt r — for a title.

A p p ly O n - lin e !

September

u

N e w York Jets: The big question in New York is the health of re­ cently acquired RB Thomas Jones, who hurt his calf muscle during training camp. If Jones is healthy Jte gives the Jets a balanced attack and a shot at a wild-card berth. Keep an eye on the brewing quar­ terback controversy between starter Chad Pennington and young Kellen Clemens. Pennington will get the call for at least the first game, but Clemens' strong arm may be better suited for utilizing the Jets' two deep threats: WR Jerricho Cotchery and WR Laveranues Coles.

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N e w E n g la n d P atriots*: In New England, the rich just keep getting richer. The Patriots added to an already potent offence by acquiring three dynamic wide receivers this off-season: the underrated Wes Welker, speedster Donte Stallworth, and the enig­ matic Randy Moss. If that wasn't enough, the Pats also landed the most coveted defensive free agent on the market, the versatile DE AdaliusThomas, to bolster a unit that finished sixth in the NFL last season. They also have a quarterback by the name of Tom Brady who just so happens to be the best big-game player in football and the main reason why anything less than a trip to Super Bowl XLII would be a huge disappointment.

170 Research Lane Guelph ON N1G 5E2 ww w.ouac.on.ca __________________________________________________________________________

—Aaron Sigal "Asterisk denotes playoff teams. Teams are listed in order of expected finish.

4

www.mcgilltribune.com

05.09.07 •Sports •23

A re y o u re a d y fo r so m e fo o tb a ll?

S o u th

W est

Indianapolis Colts*: Coming off their first Super Bowl victory since the relocation to Indianapolis, the Colts are forced to reload key personnel after the depar­ tures of starters CB Nick Harper, CB Jason David, LB Cato June and LTTarik Glenn. The offence, led by perennial Pro Bowl quaterback Peyton Manning, looks as good as ever and may be even more dynamic this year with the inclusion of slot receiver Anthony Gonzalez. Despite a strong postseason showing, Indy's defence was inconsistent at best during the regular season, finishing 21st overall and dead last at stopping the run.

Ü

Jacksonville Jaguars*: In a controversial move, Coach Jack Del Rio unexpectedly released former starting quaterback Byron Leftwich a week before the regular season. Jacksonville boasts a high-powered running game and a top tier defence which fin­ ished second in defensive yards allowed per game, but needs for­ mer first round receivers Matt Jones and Reggie Williams to come into their own. New starting quaterback David Garrard must play better down the stretch if the Jags are going to remain a playoff contender.

Tennessee Titans : After a celebrated rookie year, QB Vince Young seemed poised to transform the Titans into playoff contenders.

However, it has been a tumultuous offseason for Tennessee, as the Titans lost starting RB Travis Henry, top WR Drew Bennett and defensive playmaker CB Adam 'Pacman'Jones. With few weapons on offence and little help for a defence that finished 32nd last sea­ son, Coach Jeff Fisher may be placing too much pressure on Vince Young's sophomore shoulders.

Houston Texans: In his continuing effort to rebuild the Texans, Coach Gary Kubiak traded a slew of draft picks to nab former Fal­ con QB Matt Schaub. While the addition of Schaub will help, this Texans team still lacks the experience and depth needed to make a push for the playoffs. Houston finished 28th offensively and 24th defensively last season, and not much may change this year.

—Trip Yang

N o rth

San Diego Chargers*:This team seems like it has the full package but every year falls flat on l/ its face when it really matters—the playoffs.

Most blamed now-departed head coach Marty Schottenheimer, but new skipper Norv Turner does not inspire any confidence. Despite the coaching ineptitude, any team will win football games when Pro Bowl freaks RB LaDanian Tomlinson and TE Antonio Gates are getting touches. On defence, watch for Lawrence Taylor clone LB Shawne Merriman to continue his domination as the Bolts vie for the Lombardi Trophy.

Denver Broncos: Marred by the tragic off-season deaths of promising CB Darrent Williams and RB Damien Nash, look for an inspired Broncos team to push the Chargers for top spot.

Coach Mike Shanahan has a habit of churning out All-Pro runners so expect newly-acquired R8 Travis Henry to have a bounce-back year and help keep defences honest against emerging star QB Jay Cutler. Always boasting a strong de­ fence, Denver will be anchored by the best corner tandem in the NFL in Champ Bailey and former Detroit Lion Dre Bly. Oakland Raiders: The loss of all-star WR Randy Moss was ad­ dition by subtraction for the Raiders as they unloaded the basketcase from their young and impressionable team. While the unimpressive offence toils under new QB Daunte Culpepper, the defence is Oakland's saving grace as the unit finished third in the NFL with only 4,557 yards allowed. Raiders fans should be concerned, however, with the acrimonious contract ne­ gotiations with number-one overall pick QB JaMarcus Russell that could distract the team all year.

Kansas City Chiefs: After believing they solved their quar­ terback controversy by sending Trent Green packing to South Beach, last year's hero, journeyman Damon Huard, has been unable to assert himself as the go-to guy. Although he just secured his future with the biggest deal in Chiefs' history, Pro Bowl RB Larry Johnson will have to play catch up for missing much of training camp and with so much tread already worn off his tires— he carried the ball a record 416 times in 2006— his body may begin to break down.

Baltimore Ravens*: After a heartbreaking loss to the eventual champion Indianapolis Colts in last year's play­ offs, the Ravens enter the 2007 season poised to make a legitimate run toward the Super Bowl. In addition to returning their entire ferocious de­ fense, featuring Pro Bowlers LB Ray Lewis and S Ed Reed, Baltimore looks to be an even greater threat on offence with newly acquired running back Willis McGahee. If the Ravens, especially injury-prone QB Steve McNair can remain healthy, look for Baltimore to walk away with the di­ vision for a second consecutive year.

Cincinnati Bengals*: Cincinnati boasts one of the most excit­ ing offences in the NFL with all-world QB Carson Palmer, who threw for over 4000 yards and 28 touchdowns in 2006, again leading the way. Palmer is surrounded by high-end talent in the explosive RB Rudi Johnson and WRs TJ. Houshmandzadeh and Chad Johnson, two big-play receivers who have speed to burn.

Yet, while the Bengals' offence is superb, their defence is ex­ tremely porous. Cincinnati finished tied for last in pass defence in 2006 so expect the same from a team that hasn't made any significant upgrades.

Pittsburgh Steelers: This will be a transitional year for the Steelers as long-time head coach Bill Cowher"retired"in the off­ season and former Vikings defensive coordinator Mike Tomlin takes the reins. QB Ben Rothlisberger will have a chance to re­ deem himself after a poor 2006 campaign in which he threw 26 interceptions, with speedy RB Willie Parker and tough WR Hines Ward returning to try and keep Pittsburgh competitive. Despite retaining the services of all-pro STroy Polamalu, the defence has lost an edge with the departures of LB Joey Porter and the aging LB James Farrior.

Cleveland Browns: Cleveland will continue to be the em­ barrassment of the NFL in 2007 after a dismal 2006. While the Browns may have acquired a broken-down Jamal Lewis, the vet­ eran running back will endure many poor performances thanks to Cleveland's weak offensive line. The defence won't fare any better either as the Browns don't have any significant strengths at linebacker or corner. The only thing to look forward to at Cleveland Browns Stadium is the first start for the prodigal son, QB Brady Quinn, which won't be too far off.

—AaronSigal — Paul Schwartzmann New Orleans Saints*: The Saints' electrifying offence returns more or less intact with QB Drew Brees at the helm and a solid young receiving core led by last year's rookie sensation, Marquis Colston. New Orleans boasts an impressive tan­ dem of power and finesse in RB Deuce McAllister and RB Reg­ gie Bush. The Saints added CB Jason David. FS Kevin Kaesviharn, DT Kendrick Clancy LB Troy Evans and LB Dhani Jones in order to improve the defence which was the team's weakness last year. If the shuffling of the defence proves to be a success New Orleans could reach the Superbowl for the first time in franchise history.

Carolina Panthers*: With the suspension of Atlanta's Michael Vick, WR Steve Smith is now the most athletic playmaker in the NFL. Smith will be the marquee attraction in an offence that features the running back tandem of DeShaun Foster and DeAngelo Williams as well as veteran QB Jake Delhomme. The Panthers cut WR Keyshawn Johnson and will need a new num­ ber two receiver to step up. Carolina’s defence is anchored by DE Julius Peppers but will rely on young safeties after the de­ parture of Mike Minier.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Following last year's disappoint­ ing 4 -t2 season, veteran coach Jon Gruden brought in QB Jeff Garcia to lead the offence. Garcia performed well filling in for Donovan McNabb in Philadelphia last season, but has yet to put together a solid full campaign since leaving San Francisco.

A young offensive line and an unproven running game won't make things any easier for the veteran pivot. LB Cato June is a key addition on an already solid defence which boasts the likes of CB Ronde Barber and LB Derrick Brooks.

Atlanta Falcons: First year head coach Bobby Petrino had his work cut out for him this season even before the loss of star QB Michael Vick and the fiasco that followed.TE Alge Crumpler, RB Warrick Dunn and RB Jerious Norwood return on offence but QB Joey Harrington is certainly a question mark. The Falcon's defence, under new coordinator Mike Zimmer, boasts a strong linebacking core and a secondary which features CB DeAn­ gelo Hall, but is otherwise questionable.

—Mike Vallo

Seattle Seahawks*: In the wide open NFC West, the Seahawks seem to have as good a chance as any, provided RB Shaun Alexander can return to his MVP form of two seasons ago. Their defence is unquestionably the best in the division, boasting a couple of defensive ends that will give opposing quarterbacks nightmares: newly-signed Patrick Kerney and long­ time Seattle pass rusher Julian Peterson. As long as they don't con­ tinue last season's horrific string of injuries, look for the 'Hawks to eke out a division title.

Chicago Bears*: LB Brian Urlacher, DTTommie Harris and S Mike Brown are just a handful of big names on the best defence in the NFL. Despite the departure of DT Tank Johnson the Bears will still frustrate opponents' offences with ease.

Chi-town also fields a strong special teams core with highlight reel return man Devin Hester. The Bears'biggest question mark will once again be Rex Grossman. Grossman has shown he can be a playmaker but he has to be more consistent if the Bears hope to contend for the Vince Lombardi Trophy.

San Francisco 49ers*: Expectations are high in San Francisco for the first time since the Jeff Garcia-Terrell Owens era, and a play­ off berth isn't out of the question for this young squad. Signing All-Pro CB Nate Clemens will do wonders for the 4gers revamped defence, which should be markedly improved from last year. Look for QB Alex Smith to continue his steady improvement and for RB Frank Gore to be a fantasy MVP. Plus we love Coach Mike Nolan's dapper suits,and that has to be worth something, right?

Minnesota Vikings: The Vikings will depend on a strong de­ fence, which gave up the fewest rushing yards in the NFL last season. The defensive line is anchored by DTs Kevin Williams and Pat Williams, while the secondary will rely on the contin­ ued strong play of S Darren Sharper. The offence will need a consistent effort from their capable offensive line if they hope to clear space for RB Chester Taylor and rookie RB Adrian Pe­ terson. Second-year QB Tarvaris Jackson has a lot to prove and could be replaced by veteran QB Brooks Bollinger if he fails to impress.

St. Louis Rams: If the Rams want to win this season, they may have to put up a minimum of 25 points per game to bail out their weak defence. With the weapons St. Louis has on offence, howev­ er, that might not be a problem. All-Pro RB Steven Jackson should challenge LaDainian Tomlinson for the rushing title this year, and that will open up the passing game for QB Marc Bulger. It's not as if Bulger will lack potent targets either, as Tory Holt and Issac Bruce are among the best tandem receivers in the league.

Arizona Cardinals: The NFC West may have the strongest group of running backs in the league, and if Arizona is to make any noise this season they will need their RB, Edgerrin James, to live up to the four-year, $3o-million contract he signed one year ago. If "Edge" can return to form behind an improved offensive line, he will take some of the pressure off second-year QB Matt Leinart.

The Cards could improve upon their record from last year, but are they a playoff team? Not quite yet.

— Matt Chesser

Detroit Lions: The Lions once again selected a supremely tal­ ented wide receiver at this year's draft in Calvin Johnson. The Georgia Tech product joins a receiving core which also boasts Mike Furrey and Roy Williams, giving QB John Kitna plenty of targets to choose from. The offence will have to score often since one of fast season's worst defences has changed very little. DT Shaun Rogers needs to stay healthy if the defence is going to have any hope of keeping the Lions competitive.

Green Bay Packers: Seventeen-year NFL veteran QB Brett Favre will once again lead the Packers offence, which, aside from Favre, is a young one. The running responsibilities will fall to RB Vernand Morency and RB Brandon Jackson following the summer departure of RB Ahman Green. The receiving core is also inexperienced with the exception of WR Donald Driver.

The defence, which features CB Charles Woodson and sopho­ more LB A.J. Hawk, will look to pick up where they left off after a solid finish to last season.

—Mike Valid

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