Political bias?
Adam J. Richman's article concerning Sarah Palin in the Oct. 1 edition of The Signal is a violation of journalistic standards and an insult to readers, since his article is representative of that institution. While Richman is entitled to hold and express views that may be disagreeable to others, it is irresponsible for The Signal to facilitate the expression of those views.
His assertion that Palin is unqualified for the vice presidency because she has shot and killed animals is ridiculous. Hunting may not be a part of the metropolitan, "civilized" life Richman undoubtedly wishes to lead, but it is an integral part of life in many areas of the nation, particularly in Alaska, where the pursuit of big game is neccessary for survival. President Theodore Roosevelt, a resident of Mt. Rushmore, was a hunter and routinely particpated in organized safaris. Did this diqualify him from being one of the nation's greatest presidents?
The article's final point is that Palin is a separatist. This is sketchy at best. When taken with some of Barack Obama's connections, however, it makes Palin's connections seem inconsequential. Obama's own pastor, Jeremiah Wright, has asserted that the 9/11 attacks were comeuppance for America's crimes. When a man's pastor, who married him to his wife and baptised his children, is so painfully anti-American, it brings into question the accuracy with which Obama judges one's character.
Richman's interest in the election is commendable, but his views are flawed and his expression of them is irresponsible. The fact The Signal published this disgrace of journalism is inexcusable and brings into question bias with which The Signal may be operating. It would do well to apologize for the views it represented and facts it misrepresented, regardless of whether it is done under the guise of "opinion."
John Forelli
Coverage gratitude
Thank you for the excellent coverage of "Wilder in the Twenty-first Century," the first international Thornton Wilder conference. The writers, photographer and editorial staff did a great job on the articles with photos of the conference overall and individual events.
As far as I know, the conference was an unqualified success for both the Wilder Society and the College. I received so many compliments from conference participants and attendees on our beautiful campus, our friendly and helpful students (and staff) and the library facilities in which most of the conference took place. Mayo Concert Hall and staff also came in for praise, as did Shakespeare '70's production of Wilder's "The Skin of Our Teeth," which featured many College students and alumni in roles both in front and behind the scenes.
So I would also like to take this opportunity to thank all those at the College who contributed to making this a wonderful experience: students, staff, faculty and administration. We can all be proud of what we accomplished together.
Lincoln Konkle
Executive Director
Thronton Wilder Society
Homecoming trashed
As we all know, Homecoming was this past weekend and we had thousands of alumni, students and families on the College campus celebrating.
At the end of the day I was in shock when I stumbled across the commuter lots. The tailgating parking lots were left in complete destruction, with trash, beer and food thrown everywhere. There were empty garbage cans with piles of garbage on the ground next to them. How could people be so careless with the campus they were supposedly celebrating for?
We should all be more concerned about our environment, more so now than ever. It starts with cleaning up after yourself.
Marcella Botero
