Dal responds generously to South Asian tragedy

	The DSU quickly organized a benefit concert, held last Saturday night.

The Boxing Day disaster in the Indian Ocean has affected all who have seen pictures or heard accounts of it - Dalhousie community members included. Like others worldwide, students, staff and faculty have responded with concern and cash.

Immediately upon return after New Year's Day, university officials and the DSU executive leaped into action. First, the Dalhousie Student Union, set up a contribution box at the Student Union Building's information desk. Immediately after, President Tom Traves sent out a university-wide notice urging all to contribute. Within four days, students, staff and faculty stuffed over $1000 in the collection box.

Eager to build on this good will, the DSU organized a benefit concert on Saturday, Jan. 8. Over 300 people rocked the Grawood to crowd favourites and headliners Contrived. Mir, Folds of Policy, The Porcelain Gods and many others also played. Over $2000 was raised for the Canadian Red Cross’ tsunami relief efforts - remarkable for a concert organized in less than two days.

	More than 300 people turned out in support of a benefit event to raise funds for tsunami relief efforts.

Together with President Traves, the DSU's president, Curtis McGrath, has been instrumental in the university's response to the tragedy. He is heartened by the generous response on campus.

"The success of this event demonstrates that the Dalhousie community does have an interest in providing relief to those who were affected by this tragedy", McGrath said. "In the face of adversity, this community comes together to do its part - whether the cause is in its own backyard or halfway around the world."

McGrath also urged all members of the university community to support the huge benefit concert on Tuesday, Jan. 11 at the Halifax MetroCentre. After the DSU's written invitation to the concert, several Maritime universities are sending busloads of students to the concert.

Stay tuned for more fundraising initiatives in the future.

A star-studded lineup of local talent, including Mir, Matt Mays, "Canadian Idol" finalist Kaleb Simmonds, Mary Jane Lamond and acclaimed cellist Denise Djokic headline the benefit concert at the Halifax Metro Centre, Jan. 11 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets ($10) are for sale at the DSU information desk, at participating Sobeys stores and at the Metro Centre Box Office. (You can charge tickets by telephone at 451-1221.) Parking is free at Scotia Square after 5 p.m. on Jan. 11.

Is your part of the university holding a fundraiser? Send your stories to: Dalhousie.News@Dal.Ca