By Jennifer L. Forkel ’11 and Brian P. Lewin ‘11
Whether it is windy and snowing, or sunny and warm, there is little doubt about the beauty of the Holy Cross campus high atop Mount Saint James. The school is so small; one can easily meet several friends or acquaintances in the short walk down to class everyday. With restricted vehicle access and the numerous gates separating Holy Cross from the greater College Hill neighborhood, it is easy to believe we are in our own exclusive community. With the plethora of street lamps on seemingly every corner and students busily from place to place, even late at night on weekdays, most students do not think of campus security on a regular basis. Every weekend, hundreds of Holy Cross students, many of them freshman, make the short trek off campus to parties in the surrounding neighborhood with very little thought of safety. Recent events this semester demonstrate that Holy Cross is not an exclusive community and that crime can occur right outside our gates.
Over the past decade, Holy Cross has embraced the community in which we are privileged to reside. The Hogan Campus Center serves as a conference hall and convention center for the local area and generates needed revenue for the campus. Hence, it is understandable why the campus needs to be fairly accessible, especially via Gate Seven at the top of the hill. As part of the Worcester Consortium, Holy Cross has hosted events and taken part in events at other area colleges in order to further the interests of the individual colleges and “advance higher education regionally.” This does provide certain benefits, including the ability to bring in guest lecturers and hold concerts at an affordable rate. While there are no official statistics on ridership, I can say from witnessing the Consortium shuttle arrive outside the Hogan Campus Center, that very few Holy Cross students use the service on a regular basis. Granted, the shuttle may have an augmentation of ridership during big events such as the Holy Cross Spring Concert, but still it appears that students from other colleges use the service more than Holy Cross students.
The fact of the matter is Holy Cross has a number of activities for students on both weekdays and weekends, largely due to the efforts of the Campus Activities Board (CAB) and our strong Division I athletics program. There is no need for Holy Cross students to venture out to other campuses when there is so much to do here on the Hill. Every Saturday night, campus organizations take turns hosting The Edge, dance club at Crossroads. There is no need for any of these dances to be open to any students from other colleges. The policy requiring students to display student id’s at the door was implemented after local high school students frequently gained entrance to the dance over the past several years. The fact that anybody can just walk on campus late at night on a Saturday is extremely concerning. The perpetrators of the sexual assault this semester were on campus, in part, because The Edge was open to consortium students that evening.
Although I have not frequented the Edge since freshman orientation, I stopped by this year the weekend before the assault. Upon entering The Edge, I started to pull out my Holy Cross student ID to enter but was greeted by a tall man who came over with a stamp and said, “I don’t care, I don’t care, I don’t care” repeatedly as he went to each of my friends to stamp their hands. I was shocked that he did not care whether I was a Holy Cross student or not. Rape does not discriminate nor is the student in any way to blame for being put in that terrible situation. Everyone says “it will never happen to me” or “I’m not going to be that stupid to let that happen to me”. The simple truth, however, is that it does happen and you never know to whom it will occur. Girls, we also have to remember that even though this terrible situation was caused by non-Holy Cross students, rape can happen to anyone by anyone. Be safe and always stay with a friend. Rape happens with or without alcohol, so just be careful while still having a good time. Remember, no matter how safe you think our campus might be, you never know who might have access to our campus.
There is no doubt that due to the frequent traffic in and out of the Hogan Center and the Hart Athletic Center during the day requires open access to upper campus, there should be security measures in place at night and, in particular, on weekends. Our Department of Public Safety adds to the security on campus with vehicle and foot patrols, but there is only so much they can do by themselves. I can honestly say that I feel safer at night with Public Safety in the vicinity, but it is physically and fiscally impossible to guard every corner of campus at all times. In my two years here at Holy Cross, I have never had a problem with the security on campus. I have come to respect public safety immensely and have absolutely no problems with them. However, something must be done about security in areas that the public safety is not present in, such as The Edge. There needs to be some form of a check at gate seven on weekends, particularly at night. Many colleges require students to present identification to an officer prior to driving on campus at night. To many students, the College Hill area appears less threatening than other local areas surrounding college campus, including our Jesuit sister school in the Bronx, Fordham University. At Providence College, students are required to travel through the main gate at night on weekends and make contact with officers at the gate to gain entry.
Our residence halls are seemingly well secured with card access required at all entrance points and card access required again on most floors. Still, however, there are a number of male floors that are not protected by swipe access on the Hill residence halls. Another frequent problem involves the propping of side doors or secondary entrance ways because there is no swipe to gain entrance at those points. The side doors of Clark, Lehy, and Healy do not have swipes, but the side doors at Mulledy and Hanselman have swipe access. The idea of the card swipe is to ensure almost fool proof security. Technology can only go so far. Students need to take responsibility for their dorm security, also. Students frequently swipe in students without ideas or hold doors open for anybody who happens by. While I love the friendliness of students here at the Cross, I would not mind someone asking me if I actually live in a particular residence hall before arbitrarily swiping me in. If you do not know somebody and they look suspicious, do not let them into the residence hall.
Last year, Holy Cross implemented a first-rate emergency alert system to notify the community of impending emergencies including a loud siren and public address system located on the roof of several buildings, voicemails and text messages, and email alerts. This system was widely credited for helping to stop a shooting at Western Kentucky University in October. Still, however, if suspicious activity or a crime is not reported promptly, fellow members of the Holy Cross community could be put at risk. Following the events on campus this semester, numerous students complained about the administration’s response to the situation without taking into account their own responsibility for maintaining safety on campus.
A very positive aspect of security on campus is the emergency telephone system. Emergency telephones with blue lights above them are located on residence halls and certain buildings and allow persons to contact Public Safety by simply pressing a button. The telephones can also be used to dial on campus numbers for non-emergency purposes. The concept is ideal for emergency situations, especially with a unique, bright blue light shinning above them, but the problem is that many of the boxes are covered in ivy or obscured by foliage. Furthermore, many locations on lower campus do not have a telephone box or are located on only one side of the building. With the nature of our campus, many of the boxes are bunched together because residence halls are located in one particular area, while stretches of road are left unprotected. It would be comforting to see more emergency telephones on campus, especially near the entrances to campus such as the road by the Fieldhouse. Public Safety does offer a twenty-four hour escort service for students who do not feel safe or comfortable walking across campus.
The Fieldhouse presents another security conundrum. Every weeknight at ten, there is open gym in the Fieldhouse for Holy Cross students. Frequently, however, students do not have access to courts as a result of unauthorized people from the area using the gym facilities. According to Public Safety records, officers have been dispatched to the Fieldhouse several times to either remove these unauthorized persons from the campus or take reports of theft from lockers or other areas. Even secured lockers have been broken into. As a member of the Student Programs and Involvement (SPI) recreation staff responsible for setting up intramurals in the Fieldhouse, I have had to ask people to leave courts on several occasions. The proximity of the Fieldhouse to College Street and the open gate allows for easy access for non-Holy Cross students.
Off-campus residents have practiced proactive safety measures for quite some time, as they must travel back and forth on city streets in order to get to class and events on campus. Most students will either walk in groups or take their cars, even for just running up to Hogan to check mail. I know several females who life off campus and will never walk alone, even in the daytime. Still, however, the College Hill area appears safer than other areas of Worcester, at least in terms of reported thefts and assaults. The incident off-campus earlier this year demonstrates the dangerousness and proliferation of weapons in the area. Public Safety conducts reliable patrols on campus, but it seems to the student body that the only time Worcester Police are patrol the off-campus areas are when parties are abundant on weekends. According to a plan presented to off-campus residents and incoming first years at the beginning of this year, the Worcester Police are increasing patrols of the area and are working even more closely with Holy Cross Public Safety to ensure the safety of students. Still, however, off-campus residents would appreciate a more visible presence by Worcester Police.
Recent events have brought to light the vulnerabilities in Holy Cross’ security plan. No campus can be completely secure without being isolationist in nature. Nonetheless, there is much room for improvement, particularly in limiting access to non-students at night and on weekends. This needs to be a joint effort between members of the Holy Cross administration and students. There are plans for joint committees on public safety and sexual assault, but as of November 16th, nothing had been released to the student body about the endeavors. Holy Cross, through the Department of Public Safety, offers a Rape Aggression defense course, and will be offering classes on sexual assault next semester. Holy Cross is a fairly safe community, but improvements must be made and made promptly to ensure the safety of all in the Holy Cross community. FR
Monday, November 24, 2008
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
Barack Obama Elected President
Last night, the American people spoke, choosing Obama and Biden to be the next President and Vice-Presidents of this great country. To many, this was the sign of great change. To others, a cause for concern and anxiety. Despite our (obvious) differences, we must support our President. For eight years, we have endured the complaints of the left with shouts of "He's not my President." Let us not stoop to that level. Whether we like it or not, Barack Obama is our President. As difficult as it might be, we must work together. Instead of complaint after complaint, it is paramount that we take the high road and offer solutions.
I was asked today by a caller if I was worried about Obama's ability to handle a terrorist attack. I responded as truthfully as I could. President Bush has established a sound system of uncovering and preventing future terror attacks, but no system is fool proof. I do doubt, strongly doubt the new President's ability to make a judgment in a crisis situation. On many key votes, Obama voted "present" or simply abstained. I do not think a tea party with Osama bin Laden will solve the problem of terrorism. We need to be even more steadfast in preventing attacks and securing victory over insurgence and the Taliban in Iraq and Afghanistan. Although the venerable Elizabeth Dole lost her seat in North Carolina and the Maverick John Sununu lost his seat to tax-aholic Jeanne Shaheen in New Hampshire, the GOP is still in decent position in Congress. The Democrats did not obtain a so-called "veto-proof" majority but working together will be a challenge. This generation, however, must cross the aisles more than ever. In the wake of the financial crisis and the increased intervention on the part of the federal government, it is crucial that Ben Bernanke hold his ground and that our Congress resist the temptation to further interfere in our economy. We do not want to raise the hammer and sickle over our country. Bernanke is a smart economist with an eye to the future. He must overcome the whims of the liberal administration.
Working together for the American people---The Right Source.
I was asked today by a caller if I was worried about Obama's ability to handle a terrorist attack. I responded as truthfully as I could. President Bush has established a sound system of uncovering and preventing future terror attacks, but no system is fool proof. I do doubt, strongly doubt the new President's ability to make a judgment in a crisis situation. On many key votes, Obama voted "present" or simply abstained. I do not think a tea party with Osama bin Laden will solve the problem of terrorism. We need to be even more steadfast in preventing attacks and securing victory over insurgence and the Taliban in Iraq and Afghanistan. Although the venerable Elizabeth Dole lost her seat in North Carolina and the Maverick John Sununu lost his seat to tax-aholic Jeanne Shaheen in New Hampshire, the GOP is still in decent position in Congress. The Democrats did not obtain a so-called "veto-proof" majority but working together will be a challenge. This generation, however, must cross the aisles more than ever. In the wake of the financial crisis and the increased intervention on the part of the federal government, it is crucial that Ben Bernanke hold his ground and that our Congress resist the temptation to further interfere in our economy. We do not want to raise the hammer and sickle over our country. Bernanke is a smart economist with an eye to the future. He must overcome the whims of the liberal administration.
Working together for the American people---The Right Source.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Monday, October 20, 2008
Trayless Kimball Postponed
To the members of the Holy Cross Community,
I have good news to report this evening. The decision to remove trays from Upper Kimball dining hall has been postponed. Originally slated to occur after Winter Break, the decision was made to go trayless after Columbus Day. Thanks to our efforts on the Senate, the efforts of Kelly and Ed our Co-Presidents, and especially Melissa Ogonowski, the SGA Director of Environmental concerns, the decision was made to postpone the switch.
Ogonowski exposed the rhetoric behind the administration's environmental argument in favor of removing trays and suggested that removing trays will have no environmental benefits. This reveals the flawed economic motive of the College in removing trays. There are a number of other suggestions to improve the College's "environmental footprint" without removing trays. As a result, the College has decided to explore all options before removing trays.
I have good news to report this evening. The decision to remove trays from Upper Kimball dining hall has been postponed. Originally slated to occur after Winter Break, the decision was made to go trayless after Columbus Day. Thanks to our efforts on the Senate, the efforts of Kelly and Ed our Co-Presidents, and especially Melissa Ogonowski, the SGA Director of Environmental concerns, the decision was made to postpone the switch.
Ogonowski exposed the rhetoric behind the administration's environmental argument in favor of removing trays and suggested that removing trays will have no environmental benefits. This reveals the flawed economic motive of the College in removing trays. There are a number of other suggestions to improve the College's "environmental footprint" without removing trays. As a result, the College has decided to explore all options before removing trays.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Online Archive
Starting next Wednesday, October 15th, The Right Source Radio Show will be archived online here at hcrightsource.blogspot.com. This will allow listeners to check out any previous shows that he or she might have missed. As always, our show is broadcast live online via the link to the right of this posting.
Presidential Debate, 10/07
The gloves came off last night as Presidential hopefuls John McCain (R-AZ) and Barack Obama (D-IL) met in a "town hall" meeting in Nashville. The debate went as most would expect - a fair amount of dodging questions and caustic remarks by both candidates. One would be naive to think that neither candidate prepared possible answers before the debate, but the town hall format did allow for more off-the-cuff answers. John McCain was more comfortable from the start. Although his answers were not always clear and concise, Senator McCain seemed to connect with the people. His answers were frank and open. Senator Obama appeared to stumble over words while trying to answer a few questions in the beginning. Once he settled in, it was deja vu all over again with Obama avoiding questions about taxes and vaguely responding to concerns over the economy.
This was McCain's chance to land a solid blow to the Obama-maina that has flooded the airwaves of the country. It was not a knockout by a longshot, but McCain landed several punches and severely questioned the repute of Obama's senior economic advisers. The substance of answers to economic questions, however, involved more finger pointing than anything else. Obama ridiculed McCain for stating that the "fundamentals of our economy are strong," but the United States' economy does in fact stand on solid ground. The country saw a fair amount of growth over the summer and during the second quarter. Although the number was a little under 3%, the United States continues to perform well in the GDP projections for this year. Any economic problems are only exacerbated by the media's sensationalism which causes bank runs and stock market sell-offs.
The national polls are very close but McCain needed a strong performance to help in the battleground states. Obama held leads going into the debate in Colorado and Ohio--two pivotal states in the general election. The debate last night should help McCain to increase, if not challenge Obama's position. Still, however, these are simply polls and polls have a tendency to be incorrect (look at the Dewey-FDR poll back seventy years ago.) ...And the victor is: Senator John McCain.
----An interesting side note, Cleveland Browns QB Brady Quinn announced his support of John McCain in the election and introduced McCain at a Cleveland area rally this afternoon.----
This was McCain's chance to land a solid blow to the Obama-maina that has flooded the airwaves of the country. It was not a knockout by a longshot, but McCain landed several punches and severely questioned the repute of Obama's senior economic advisers. The substance of answers to economic questions, however, involved more finger pointing than anything else. Obama ridiculed McCain for stating that the "fundamentals of our economy are strong," but the United States' economy does in fact stand on solid ground. The country saw a fair amount of growth over the summer and during the second quarter. Although the number was a little under 3%, the United States continues to perform well in the GDP projections for this year. Any economic problems are only exacerbated by the media's sensationalism which causes bank runs and stock market sell-offs.
The national polls are very close but McCain needed a strong performance to help in the battleground states. Obama held leads going into the debate in Colorado and Ohio--two pivotal states in the general election. The debate last night should help McCain to increase, if not challenge Obama's position. Still, however, these are simply polls and polls have a tendency to be incorrect (look at the Dewey-FDR poll back seventy years ago.) ...And the victor is: Senator John McCain.
----An interesting side note, Cleveland Browns QB Brady Quinn announced his support of John McCain in the election and introduced McCain at a Cleveland area rally this afternoon.----
Friday, October 3, 2008
First Show Next Week
The show will be kicking off with its first broadcast on Monday, October 6 at 3pm. Join us by listening to the radio or online. We have so much to discuss with all the current issues and the upcoming election. As always call in if you want to discuss any of the issues we are talking about or if you want to bring up a new topic you want to hear us discuss.
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Trayless Kimball
Since its inception in 1935, Kimball dining hall has served hundreds of thousands of meals to hungry Holy Cross students. The dining hall looks much today as it did seventy three years ago and technological improvements aside, operates in a similar manner. After a long day of Campus tours and information sessions, Kimball is often the destination of the eager prospective student. As part of commencement activities, the Baccalaureate Ball is held at Kimball for graduating seniors and their families. It is truly a daily ritual for Holy Cross students to walk to Kimball for at least one of their meals.
This year, Dining Services is attempting to disrupt a seventy year tradition and make significant changes to Kimball Hall. The head of Auxiliary Services on Campus, Art Korandis, announced plans at the most recent SGA General Assembly to permanently remove trays from Upper Kimball starting next semester. This spring, the campus witnessed on of the largest debaucles in recent memory as Kimball removed trays for one day as part of an environmentally friendly week.
Practically, this does not make sense. The majority of students take a plate for food, a bowl, for salad, and several drinks. Removing trays will not result in people eating less or creating less waste. It will, however, result in more spills and cleanup for Kimball workers as students try to carry more to their table than they should. Furthermore, instead of encouraging students to eat healthy, this could lead to students opting out of a salad if it means an extra thing to carry. Students, instead would make multiple trips to the service area, creating a great deal of traffic in an already crowded area.
Kimball Captains agree that students will still take the same amount of food, resulting in the same amount of waste, if any. They point out the fact that the tray return is designed for--you guessed right! Trays. The system will have to be revamped and will require more effort from already taxed student workers. What water would be saved from not having to wash trays will have to be used to clean tables. What individual would want to sit at a messy table?
Not to be overlooked are our competitive NCAA Division I athletes, many of whom are required to consume a certain amount of calories a day. Without trays, athletes will have difficulty getting to their food and safely bringing it back to a table. Coaches must speak out on this issue. There is a reason football players are required to eat 19 out of 21 weekly meals at Kimball and sign in.
To be fair, Upper Kimball is not a profitable venture, with the dining hall providing food in a buffet style. I imagine Kimball looses quite a bit of money on Gyro night. Students, however, will not benefit from this venture. Neither tuition nor room and board will be affected. Items will still be priced the same, meaning no change in meal plans. What may I ask is the benefit to the students? None whatsoever. If the dining hall is so concerned about the environment, why does it still offer styrofoam cups or provide enough napkins for our entire armed services? When Kimball briefly cut back on these items, there was a fair amount of student outcry, and the dining hall administration caved like a cheap suitcase.
Nonetheless, the Kimball hierarchy insists on carrying out this plan despite expected student resistance. Will 2800 students dropping their food on the floor change their minds? How about upperclassmen using Lower Kimball and Crossroads for the semester? Strength may be in numbers, but the aforementioned behavior will most likely have no positive effect on the situation. The SGA Senate is expected to include a ballot question in the October election putting the future of trays in Kimball in the hands of Holy Cross students. Sadly, however, democracy at Holy Cross appears to be on the same track as when referendums and ballot initiatives go before the Massachusetts State Legislature.
Spread the word, start writing letters to Mr. Korandis, Deans Peterson, Austin, and Goodwin, and let your voice be heard. Keep trays in Kimball and keep an honored tradition alive and a sacred Holy Cross Institution the way the founders intended. God Bless all Holy Cross students in this endeavor and Kimball's continued hostility...hospitality.
This year, Dining Services is attempting to disrupt a seventy year tradition and make significant changes to Kimball Hall. The head of Auxiliary Services on Campus, Art Korandis, announced plans at the most recent SGA General Assembly to permanently remove trays from Upper Kimball starting next semester. This spring, the campus witnessed on of the largest debaucles in recent memory as Kimball removed trays for one day as part of an environmentally friendly week.
Practically, this does not make sense. The majority of students take a plate for food, a bowl, for salad, and several drinks. Removing trays will not result in people eating less or creating less waste. It will, however, result in more spills and cleanup for Kimball workers as students try to carry more to their table than they should. Furthermore, instead of encouraging students to eat healthy, this could lead to students opting out of a salad if it means an extra thing to carry. Students, instead would make multiple trips to the service area, creating a great deal of traffic in an already crowded area.
Kimball Captains agree that students will still take the same amount of food, resulting in the same amount of waste, if any. They point out the fact that the tray return is designed for--you guessed right! Trays. The system will have to be revamped and will require more effort from already taxed student workers. What water would be saved from not having to wash trays will have to be used to clean tables. What individual would want to sit at a messy table?
Not to be overlooked are our competitive NCAA Division I athletes, many of whom are required to consume a certain amount of calories a day. Without trays, athletes will have difficulty getting to their food and safely bringing it back to a table. Coaches must speak out on this issue. There is a reason football players are required to eat 19 out of 21 weekly meals at Kimball and sign in.
To be fair, Upper Kimball is not a profitable venture, with the dining hall providing food in a buffet style. I imagine Kimball looses quite a bit of money on Gyro night. Students, however, will not benefit from this venture. Neither tuition nor room and board will be affected. Items will still be priced the same, meaning no change in meal plans. What may I ask is the benefit to the students? None whatsoever. If the dining hall is so concerned about the environment, why does it still offer styrofoam cups or provide enough napkins for our entire armed services? When Kimball briefly cut back on these items, there was a fair amount of student outcry, and the dining hall administration caved like a cheap suitcase.
Nonetheless, the Kimball hierarchy insists on carrying out this plan despite expected student resistance. Will 2800 students dropping their food on the floor change their minds? How about upperclassmen using Lower Kimball and Crossroads for the semester? Strength may be in numbers, but the aforementioned behavior will most likely have no positive effect on the situation. The SGA Senate is expected to include a ballot question in the October election putting the future of trays in Kimball in the hands of Holy Cross students. Sadly, however, democracy at Holy Cross appears to be on the same track as when referendums and ballot initiatives go before the Massachusetts State Legislature.
Spread the word, start writing letters to Mr. Korandis, Deans Peterson, Austin, and Goodwin, and let your voice be heard. Keep trays in Kimball and keep an honored tradition alive and a sacred Holy Cross Institution the way the founders intended. God Bless all Holy Cross students in this endeavor and Kimball's continued hostility...hospitality.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Ashcroft Speaks at Holy Cross
Former Attorney General, John D. Ashcroft delivered the 43rd Annual Hanify-Howland Lecture on September 16th. The title of the lecture "Securing Freedom in Perilous Times" focused on Ashcroft's role in policy following the attacks on September 11th, 2001. Mr. Ashcroft served as Governor of Missouri from 1985 to 1993 and served as US Senator for the State of Missouri from 1994 until 2000. President George W. Bush named Ashcroft the 79th Attorney General of the United States in 2001. Attorney General John Ashcroft helped to prosecute over 190 terrorists and investigate countless more as he secured our nation's freedom.
The lecture focused on the distinction between the Department of Justice's (DOJ)traditional focus on the prosecution of individuals to the focus on prevention of terrorist acts and other heinous crimes. In the traditional form of investigation by the DOJ, the end is essentially the successful prosecution of individuals suspected of domestic felonies. The DOJ would investigate an individual and like any other form of policing would arrest a suspect after a crime was committed. In many cases, such as drug deals, the investigation would conclude after the crime (ie. drug deal) had taken place. The next step was prosecution.
Following the attacks on September 11th, Justice Department officials led by Mr. Ashcroft began to shift focus to prevention. It is one thing to wait for a warrant to search a person's residence or to listen to communications after a bank robbery has been committed. It is another thing to wait for a warrant when a terrorist attack is imminent. Therefore, the DOJ shifted into prevention mode, and with the help of the FISA Act for obtaining warrants, was able to successfully investigate known terror suspects. This process culminated in Congress' overwhelming passage of the Patriot Act, which allowed for such measures with some increased scrutiny.
The following morning, Mr. Ashcroft led several question and answer seminars with Holy Cross students about security in a post-September 11th world. Questions ranged from the use of FISA to obtain warrants for espionage to the nature of the Constitution and whether justices had the power to reverse previously established precedents for investigating communications between suspected terrorists.
The Hanify-Howland Committee is an independent body of Holy Cross Students who, with the financial support of the Hanify and Howland families, brings publicly noted civil servants to speak on campus. Past speakers have included the Honorable Antonin Scalia, the Honorable Clarence Thomas, and Paul D. Wolfowitz.
The lecture focused on the distinction between the Department of Justice's (DOJ)traditional focus on the prosecution of individuals to the focus on prevention of terrorist acts and other heinous crimes. In the traditional form of investigation by the DOJ, the end is essentially the successful prosecution of individuals suspected of domestic felonies. The DOJ would investigate an individual and like any other form of policing would arrest a suspect after a crime was committed. In many cases, such as drug deals, the investigation would conclude after the crime (ie. drug deal) had taken place. The next step was prosecution.
Following the attacks on September 11th, Justice Department officials led by Mr. Ashcroft began to shift focus to prevention. It is one thing to wait for a warrant to search a person's residence or to listen to communications after a bank robbery has been committed. It is another thing to wait for a warrant when a terrorist attack is imminent. Therefore, the DOJ shifted into prevention mode, and with the help of the FISA Act for obtaining warrants, was able to successfully investigate known terror suspects. This process culminated in Congress' overwhelming passage of the Patriot Act, which allowed for such measures with some increased scrutiny.
The following morning, Mr. Ashcroft led several question and answer seminars with Holy Cross students about security in a post-September 11th world. Questions ranged from the use of FISA to obtain warrants for espionage to the nature of the Constitution and whether justices had the power to reverse previously established precedents for investigating communications between suspected terrorists.
The Hanify-Howland Committee is an independent body of Holy Cross Students who, with the financial support of the Hanify and Howland families, brings publicly noted civil servants to speak on campus. Past speakers have included the Honorable Antonin Scalia, the Honorable Clarence Thomas, and Paul D. Wolfowitz.
Thursday, September 11, 2008
9/11 Remembrance
We ask all readers to spend a moment in silent prayer to remember all of the brave Americans who lost their lives in the 9/11 attacks, may we never forget.
Monday, September 8, 2008
HC Newman Society Revamps Efforts
The Holy Cross Chapter of the Cardinal Newman Society has recently increased its efforts to preserve the Catholic character of Holy Cross with additions to its website, hccns.org and with extensive mailings to the Class of 2007 and 2008. The Society is comprised of thousands of Holy Cross Alumnus, Students, Faculty, and Friends who "admire the progress the College has made in many ways, but are deeply concerned about the extent of its secularization. They support appropriate measures to correct that condition and preserve Holy Cross’ Catholic character; they support the re-establishment of a core of studies in philosophy and religion."
The Cardinal Newman Society, although not legally affiliated with the College, works with the Board of Trustees and President Michael McFarland, SJ to secure its goals. The Newman Society supports The Fenwick Review, the independent voice of faith and reason at the College of the Holy Cross. The Society reviews activities at the College to ensure they prescribe to the College's true mission. Surprisingly, Fr. McFarland, although not a full participant, supports the efforts of the Cardinal Newman Society at Holy Cross. The Society enjoys the support of numerous Catholic Colleges and Universities and from various firms and institutions. The great Avery Cardinal Dulles, SJ is a supporter of the Newman Society and uses his post at Fordham University to discuss relevant topics with his counterparts at Holy Cross.
For more information on the Cardinal Newman Society of Holy Cross, please visit their website, hccns.org or contact president, Victor Melfa.
The Cardinal Newman Society, although not legally affiliated with the College, works with the Board of Trustees and President Michael McFarland, SJ to secure its goals. The Newman Society supports The Fenwick Review, the independent voice of faith and reason at the College of the Holy Cross. The Society reviews activities at the College to ensure they prescribe to the College's true mission. Surprisingly, Fr. McFarland, although not a full participant, supports the efforts of the Cardinal Newman Society at Holy Cross. The Society enjoys the support of numerous Catholic Colleges and Universities and from various firms and institutions. The great Avery Cardinal Dulles, SJ is a supporter of the Newman Society and uses his post at Fordham University to discuss relevant topics with his counterparts at Holy Cross.
For more information on the Cardinal Newman Society of Holy Cross, please visit their website, hccns.org or contact president, Victor Melfa.
Sunday, September 7, 2008
John Ashcroft to speak at Holy Cross
The Hanify-Howland Lecture Committee has announced that former Attorney General of the US, John D. Ashcroft, will speak at Holy Cross on Tuesday, September 16th at 8pm. Ashcroft, now the proprietor of a consulting firm, led the nation through some of the most perilous times in its 250 year history. Ashcroft helped shape policy following the attacks on September 11th to prevent further terrorist attacks and bring the perpetrators to justice. Attorney General Ashcroft assisted in the conviction of 191 terrorists and enemy combatants.
he annual Hanify-Howland lecture honors the late Edward F. Hanify, a 1904 graduate of Holy Cross and a Massachusetts Superior Court justice for 15 years, who died in 1954. The series was started by Hanify’s friend, the late Weston Howland of Milton, Mass., board chairman of Warwick Mills, Inc., who died in 1976.
Since 1965, the Hanify-Howland lecture series has brought to the Holy Cross campus a series of distinguished speakers on public affairs who have exemplified in their own work the spirit of public service that the series was established to encourage.
he annual Hanify-Howland lecture honors the late Edward F. Hanify, a 1904 graduate of Holy Cross and a Massachusetts Superior Court justice for 15 years, who died in 1954. The series was started by Hanify’s friend, the late Weston Howland of Milton, Mass., board chairman of Warwick Mills, Inc., who died in 1976.
Since 1965, the Hanify-Howland lecture series has brought to the Holy Cross campus a series of distinguished speakers on public affairs who have exemplified in their own work the spirit of public service that the series was established to encourage.
Why Americans Can't Vote for Obama
Barrack Obama experienced a surge in momentum early this year to surpass Hillary Clinton in the delegate count. Obama seems to appeal to younger, college-age voters, who may not know Obama’s track record. The National Journal ranked Obama as the most liberal senator in Congress. There was a controversy last fall when Obama broke from tradition and refused to wear an American flag pin on his suit. The American flag stands for freedom and liberty. Over the course of our nation’s storied history, millions of soldiers have given their lives for our country and all that the flag stands for.
Michelle Obama’s comments that for the first time in her adult life she feels proud of America, undermines the great history of the United States. Her comments epitomize the Obama campaign thus far. Ronald Kessler, a writer for Newsmax, uncovered portions of campaign that the Obama camp would rather remain out of the press. The Reverend Jeremiah Wright, a close friend of Barrack Obama and spiritual advisor, has made numerous anti-American comments, the most compelling of which occurred just a week after September 11th. In a sermon the week after the attacks, he cited the attacks as a consequence of the United States’ violent policies. Two years ago he suggested the attacks were retribution for America’s racism. There is no place in a political campaign for a person who expresses such Anti-American statements about such a sensitive issue. According to Kessler, both Wright and Obama are associates of Louis Farrakhan, leader of the Nation of Islam who “has repeatedly made hate-filled statements targeting Jews, whites, America, and homosexuals.” Recently, Farrakhan commented that Obama is the “hope of the entire world” that the US will change for the better. If by better he means becoming more vulnerable to terrorists and embracing radical policies, then he is correct.
Obama is a radical liberal. He has frequently come into clash with the view points of the Catholic Church. He voted no to the ban on partial birth abortion that was cited by some Democrats as a moral necessity. Additionally, he has consistently supported bills to support embryonic stem cell research. Over the past four years, Obama has been highly critical of the large amount of money in the budget for defense and the global War on Terror, but has proposed numerous programs that will also account for a significant portion of the budget. How will he fund these programs? Raising taxes.
His stances Homeland Security and the aforementioned War on Terror, however, undoubtedly form the number one reason why he would weaken our country and make us vulnerable to terrorism. Obama intentionally avoided voting on the Protect America Act, a bill to strengthen the interception of terrorist communications, in an effort to protect his own reputation. In August of 2007, Obama voted against a bill that would have allowed the government to intercept communications of terrorists without a warrant. Obama is essentially aiding and abetting the enemy by hindering the ability of the government to prevent potential attacks. In September of 2006, he voted to preserve habeas corpus for military combatants held in Gitmo. What would Obama say to the mother of a victim of September 11th after a terrorist was freed as a result of his actions? There is no doubt in my mind that the United States of America will be more vulnerable under Barrack Obama.
With the addition of social conservative and reformer, Sarah Palin, the McCain camp looks stronger than ever. Finally, mainstream Americans are beginning to see through the Obama-hype. Look for McCain to take the independent vote in November and into the White House.
Michelle Obama’s comments that for the first time in her adult life she feels proud of America, undermines the great history of the United States. Her comments epitomize the Obama campaign thus far. Ronald Kessler, a writer for Newsmax, uncovered portions of campaign that the Obama camp would rather remain out of the press. The Reverend Jeremiah Wright, a close friend of Barrack Obama and spiritual advisor, has made numerous anti-American comments, the most compelling of which occurred just a week after September 11th. In a sermon the week after the attacks, he cited the attacks as a consequence of the United States’ violent policies. Two years ago he suggested the attacks were retribution for America’s racism. There is no place in a political campaign for a person who expresses such Anti-American statements about such a sensitive issue. According to Kessler, both Wright and Obama are associates of Louis Farrakhan, leader of the Nation of Islam who “has repeatedly made hate-filled statements targeting Jews, whites, America, and homosexuals.” Recently, Farrakhan commented that Obama is the “hope of the entire world” that the US will change for the better. If by better he means becoming more vulnerable to terrorists and embracing radical policies, then he is correct.
Obama is a radical liberal. He has frequently come into clash with the view points of the Catholic Church. He voted no to the ban on partial birth abortion that was cited by some Democrats as a moral necessity. Additionally, he has consistently supported bills to support embryonic stem cell research. Over the past four years, Obama has been highly critical of the large amount of money in the budget for defense and the global War on Terror, but has proposed numerous programs that will also account for a significant portion of the budget. How will he fund these programs? Raising taxes.
His stances Homeland Security and the aforementioned War on Terror, however, undoubtedly form the number one reason why he would weaken our country and make us vulnerable to terrorism. Obama intentionally avoided voting on the Protect America Act, a bill to strengthen the interception of terrorist communications, in an effort to protect his own reputation. In August of 2007, Obama voted against a bill that would have allowed the government to intercept communications of terrorists without a warrant. Obama is essentially aiding and abetting the enemy by hindering the ability of the government to prevent potential attacks. In September of 2006, he voted to preserve habeas corpus for military combatants held in Gitmo. What would Obama say to the mother of a victim of September 11th after a terrorist was freed as a result of his actions? There is no doubt in my mind that the United States of America will be more vulnerable under Barrack Obama.
With the addition of social conservative and reformer, Sarah Palin, the McCain camp looks stronger than ever. Finally, mainstream Americans are beginning to see through the Obama-hype. Look for McCain to take the independent vote in November and into the White House.
Holy Cross Football Traditions
The leaves begin to change color, the air becomes cooler and crisper, and all across the country, people flock to local college football games. Every Saturday in autumn, students at Holy Cross are greeted by thousands of alumni, marching their way from the upper parking lots to the venerable Fitton Field. The enthusiastic marching band leads the visitors on a reminiscent trip through campus, while purple-clad students empty out of the dorms. The scene could take place at virtually any epoch in time.
The alumni bring an interest and fervor unlike any other on the Hill. The trip to Worcester seems to transport them back to another period. Despite the success of the Crusaders last year and the commemoration of the undefeated 1987 season, most students are unaware of Holy Cross’ rich football tradition. With many older alumni no longer able to make it to the games and impart gridiron wisdom on a new generation of Sader Nation, it is imperative that the stories stay alive.
Fitton Field, which saw its large steel structure erected in 1924, remains a haven for football fans across the Northeast. The stadium was completed as larger crowds began to pack the wooden stands that surrounded college football fields across the country. The large steel horseshoe harkens back to a time when going to the game on the weekend was a must for both alumni and residents of Worcester. As a matter of fact, the largest crowd at Fitton Field was not after the most recent renovation in the 1986, but in 1938 in front of 27,000 patrons. Alumni came from all across the country to watch the Crusaders take on the best teams around. Holy Cross played rival Colgate for the seventieth time in history last season in front of a meager crowd. Bitter temperatures forced many students from the stands, but a small contingent of students and alumni brought the stadium alive in the fourth quarter. The crowd was jumping up and down after a decisive stand on defense, creating a deafening roar. Imagine what a full house would sound like? In an expensive commercialized world, how often can a family find inexpensive, family-friendly fun like a Holy Cross football game? With last year’s on-field success, it is time to fill Fitton Field.
In order to understand the passion of Crusader fans, one must journey back in time to a golden age at the Cross. In the late 1930s, Holy Cross was among the most dominant football teams in the country. Led by coach, Edward N. Anderson, the Crusaders compiled an unparalleled record of 75-15-7 in the decade. The Crusaders went undefeated in 1935 and again in 1937 with wins over Boston College, Colgate, and even Georgia. Yes, the same University of Georgia picked by many experts to win the Division 1 FCS Championship this year played Holy Cross three times in the 1930s and fell to the Crusaders each time. During this time period, Holy Cross set the record for the longest unbeaten streak at Fitton Field, going 26-0-3 from 1935 to 1939. The stories vary from one alumnus to another, but all of them agree on the powerhouse that was Holy Cross Football. Loosing to Brown in November of 1938, “Bullet” Bill Osmanski put the ball in the end zone twice to give the Cross a 14-12 victory in his final home game. Anderson, who also coached at Iowa, was considered an innovative coach who truly believed in his players.
On September 27th, 1941, Holy Cross joined an elite group of football teams who were able to defeat Louisiana State University at “Death Valley” in Baton Rouge. The Crusaders edged the Tigers by a touchdown to stun the raucous crowd. The victory marked the fourth time in just five years the Crusaders beat a team from the juggernaut that is the Southeastern Conference. Many alumni remember the most storied moment in Holy Cross history that occurred a year later at the expense of hated Boston College. In front of a sell-out crowd at Fenway Park in Boston, the Crusaders routed the undefeated Eagles and kept them from a National Championship. The Crusaders also kept Boston College from celebrating at the Coconut Grove Nightclub in Boston, which quite possibly saved the team from devastation. That night, the nightclub burned down, killing nearly all the revelers inside. Three years later, Holy Cross traveled to Miami to play on one of college football’s biggest stages—the Orange Bowl. The team defeated Colgate, Yale, and rival Boston College en route to the school’s first and only appearance in a major bowl.
Some people agree that Holy Cross indeed left a mark on the world of college football, but that it stopped sixty years ago. To refute that claim, look no further than the 1980s, which saw the Crusaders most successful run since they marched onto Fitton Field with leather helmets.
Holy Cross compiled a school record 78 wins in the decade, most of which came under head coach, Mark Duffner. The 1987 squad, now playing in Division 1-AA in the Patriot League, went 11-0, including a victory over Army at West Point. Quarterback Gordie Lockbaum was so dominant on the gridiron, he was invited to the West Side Athletic Club in New York as a Heisman Trophy finalist. The same trophy won by so many football greats and more recently, Division 1-A players, almost went to a Crusader. Just five years later, Holy Cross went undefeated again and swept their way through the Patriot League. Duffner was twice named coach of the year in 1987 and 1991.
After a successful season last year in which quarterback Dom Randolph picked apart defenses like Tom Brady, one cannot help but think back ten years. The Crusaders were fourth overall in the nation in total offense and Randolph was second in the nation in scoring. This year, the team returns eight starters to its prolific offense, including running back Terrance Gass and wide receiver Brett McDermott. Holy Cross “Iron Men” practice hard day in and day out and play against some of the best programs in the East. They deserve the full support of Sader Nation and the Worcester community as they look to claim their first Patriot League title since 1991. Since football has been played on Mount Saint James, student athletes have given their all in the classroom and then on the playfields. In today’s world of college football, it is rare to find a program dedicated to both academic and athletic performance. It is even rarer to find a successful program. That is the aura of the Cross.
Courtesy The Fenwick Review, the independent voice of faith and reason at the College of the Holy Cross
The alumni bring an interest and fervor unlike any other on the Hill. The trip to Worcester seems to transport them back to another period. Despite the success of the Crusaders last year and the commemoration of the undefeated 1987 season, most students are unaware of Holy Cross’ rich football tradition. With many older alumni no longer able to make it to the games and impart gridiron wisdom on a new generation of Sader Nation, it is imperative that the stories stay alive.
Fitton Field, which saw its large steel structure erected in 1924, remains a haven for football fans across the Northeast. The stadium was completed as larger crowds began to pack the wooden stands that surrounded college football fields across the country. The large steel horseshoe harkens back to a time when going to the game on the weekend was a must for both alumni and residents of Worcester. As a matter of fact, the largest crowd at Fitton Field was not after the most recent renovation in the 1986, but in 1938 in front of 27,000 patrons. Alumni came from all across the country to watch the Crusaders take on the best teams around. Holy Cross played rival Colgate for the seventieth time in history last season in front of a meager crowd. Bitter temperatures forced many students from the stands, but a small contingent of students and alumni brought the stadium alive in the fourth quarter. The crowd was jumping up and down after a decisive stand on defense, creating a deafening roar. Imagine what a full house would sound like? In an expensive commercialized world, how often can a family find inexpensive, family-friendly fun like a Holy Cross football game? With last year’s on-field success, it is time to fill Fitton Field.
In order to understand the passion of Crusader fans, one must journey back in time to a golden age at the Cross. In the late 1930s, Holy Cross was among the most dominant football teams in the country. Led by coach, Edward N. Anderson, the Crusaders compiled an unparalleled record of 75-15-7 in the decade. The Crusaders went undefeated in 1935 and again in 1937 with wins over Boston College, Colgate, and even Georgia. Yes, the same University of Georgia picked by many experts to win the Division 1 FCS Championship this year played Holy Cross three times in the 1930s and fell to the Crusaders each time. During this time period, Holy Cross set the record for the longest unbeaten streak at Fitton Field, going 26-0-3 from 1935 to 1939. The stories vary from one alumnus to another, but all of them agree on the powerhouse that was Holy Cross Football. Loosing to Brown in November of 1938, “Bullet” Bill Osmanski put the ball in the end zone twice to give the Cross a 14-12 victory in his final home game. Anderson, who also coached at Iowa, was considered an innovative coach who truly believed in his players.
On September 27th, 1941, Holy Cross joined an elite group of football teams who were able to defeat Louisiana State University at “Death Valley” in Baton Rouge. The Crusaders edged the Tigers by a touchdown to stun the raucous crowd. The victory marked the fourth time in just five years the Crusaders beat a team from the juggernaut that is the Southeastern Conference. Many alumni remember the most storied moment in Holy Cross history that occurred a year later at the expense of hated Boston College. In front of a sell-out crowd at Fenway Park in Boston, the Crusaders routed the undefeated Eagles and kept them from a National Championship. The Crusaders also kept Boston College from celebrating at the Coconut Grove Nightclub in Boston, which quite possibly saved the team from devastation. That night, the nightclub burned down, killing nearly all the revelers inside. Three years later, Holy Cross traveled to Miami to play on one of college football’s biggest stages—the Orange Bowl. The team defeated Colgate, Yale, and rival Boston College en route to the school’s first and only appearance in a major bowl.
Some people agree that Holy Cross indeed left a mark on the world of college football, but that it stopped sixty years ago. To refute that claim, look no further than the 1980s, which saw the Crusaders most successful run since they marched onto Fitton Field with leather helmets.
Holy Cross compiled a school record 78 wins in the decade, most of which came under head coach, Mark Duffner. The 1987 squad, now playing in Division 1-AA in the Patriot League, went 11-0, including a victory over Army at West Point. Quarterback Gordie Lockbaum was so dominant on the gridiron, he was invited to the West Side Athletic Club in New York as a Heisman Trophy finalist. The same trophy won by so many football greats and more recently, Division 1-A players, almost went to a Crusader. Just five years later, Holy Cross went undefeated again and swept their way through the Patriot League. Duffner was twice named coach of the year in 1987 and 1991.
After a successful season last year in which quarterback Dom Randolph picked apart defenses like Tom Brady, one cannot help but think back ten years. The Crusaders were fourth overall in the nation in total offense and Randolph was second in the nation in scoring. This year, the team returns eight starters to its prolific offense, including running back Terrance Gass and wide receiver Brett McDermott. Holy Cross “Iron Men” practice hard day in and day out and play against some of the best programs in the East. They deserve the full support of Sader Nation and the Worcester community as they look to claim their first Patriot League title since 1991. Since football has been played on Mount Saint James, student athletes have given their all in the classroom and then on the playfields. In today’s world of college football, it is rare to find a program dedicated to both academic and athletic performance. It is even rarer to find a successful program. That is the aura of the Cross.
Courtesy The Fenwick Review, the independent voice of faith and reason at the College of the Holy Cross
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
