I have followed the recent UPUA elections and the controversy surrounding Jay Bundy and now President Jay Chamberlin and have read every article and editorial regarding the two.

The matter has serious implications in many areas, especially during a time of so much uncertainty and flux regarding student government on campus, but none as serious as the many misconceptions and negative sentiments regarding the word "minion."

Jay Chamberlin is quoted referring to Felicia McGinty, a subordinate official, as "one of Vicky Triponey's minions," a comment that has drawn the ire of many.

We must investigate the word further in order to fully understand what was truly said.

Dictionary.com defines minion as "a subordinate of a person in power," "a favored or highly regarded person," and "a minor official."

Other definitions from Answers.com are "a person who is much loved" and "one who is highly esteemed or favored." I fail to comprehend how any of these words are "strong," as Mitch Belding described, in a negative way.

Mr. Chamberlin did not refer to anyone as a cretin, a dimwit or even an ignoramus. No "shock collar" is required for Mr. Chamberlin, for we should all learn to love and embrace "minion."