Hello,
I guess this is an example of how poor design is unimpeded when there are no formal rules or a lack of understanding of standards created by common and mass usage.
A small triangle on a link has always been the mark/understanding that there is more content and means the link can expand. Somehow thinking the graphic is better suited as a design element shows a lack of understanding of how Design is more than just graphic placement.
This might be a good example of testing to see if the template can be changed to only show the triangle on an A href element... I'll do a test if I can find some free time.