The University News

In Memoriam

Editorial Board • April 20, 2007

On Monday, April 16, 2007, an act of meaningless brutality stunned our nation: 23-year-old Cho Seung-Hui, a senior at Virginia Tech, shot and killed 32 people during the largest on-campus massacre in U.S. history. Our thoughts, prayers and deepest sympathy go out to the families and friends of these students and faculty, to Virginia Tech and to the memories of the students themselves.

Korean Student Association Comments

Korean Student Association • April 20, 2007

To the Editor: We were profoundly shocked by the heinous nature of the shooting rampage that occurred at Virginia Tech this past Monday. Upon learning that the gunman was a legal U.S. resident with Korean background, many of us were overcome by a sentiment of embarrassment and disbelief.

Architectural Historian Praises Pius

Michael R. Allen • April 20, 2007

To the Editor: I read "University Librarian Staines addresses Senate" with great interest. As an architectural historian, I am concerned that St. Louis University does not recognize the value of Pius XII Memorial Library. Built in 1959 from plans by Leo Daly and Sons, Pius Library is an exquisite example of how modernist architects used repetition and juxtaposition of material, minimal ornamentation, clear forms and open space to create dramatic and functional spaces.

Soderberg Sound-Off

Allan Poole • April 20, 2007

To the Editor: I wish to voice my displeasure at the Soderberg firing. The university has acted in a way unbecoming to any Jesuit institution. It's disgusting and Fr. Biondi owes Soderberg and the A.D an apology. I always thought SLU was a class above the universities who compromise their principles and bow to the almighty dollar and athlete.

Alumna Comments on Soderberg Firing

Emily Willis • April 20, 2007

To the Editor: Historically, SLU has never handled PR/Communications appropriately. This is currently being exemplified as the administration hides behind a written statement, refusing to respond to questions regarding the Soderberg firing. I am embarrassed to hold a degree in communications from an institution that so clearly lacks any understanding of it.

“Political” Humor & Public Good

Marshall Johnson • March 30, 2007

Freedom of speech is a beautiful thing, but only if used intelligently. Ann Coulter is an excellent example of not using it intelligently. I just watched a YouTube clip (God love the Internet) of her saying she has "nothing to say" about possible Democratic presidential nominee John Edwards, because she would "have to go to rehab for using the word 'faggot.

The Truth About Political Scandals

Shawn McCarthy • March 30, 2007

The Democratic Party and their minions in the mainstream media are constantly talking about scandals and immoral behavior. Their scandal detection is so sensitive, that they often find scandals that are not even real. They employ selective moral outrage, convenient double-standards and deception to win political points and deceive the public.

The Student Voice

Editorial Board • March 30, 2007

It's been more than five weeks since Student Government Association elections. Approximately five weeks of classes remain. From this equidistant position, we feel it is appropriate to offer SGA both thanks and sincere suggestions. With these final days firmly in mind, we commend the accomplishments of this year's SGA senate and executive board.

Students for Life Accept Contributions, Donations

Kathleen Neuner Maria Teresa • March 30, 2007

To the Editor: "We're going to have a baby!" In an ideal scenario, the happy couple's announcement will most likely be received with surprised smiles and then a round of ecstatic congratulations. The happy couple, for the next nine months, has the support of family and friends; all the mother and child's needs will be met, but this is, after all, an ideal scenario.

Acting Locally

Editorial Board • March 30, 2007

"Think globally, act locally." So reads a popular slogan invoked in countless speeches and bumper stickers. This phrase was first invoked in 1969 by Friends of the Earth, a confederation of environmentalists. In our increasingly globalized age, however, this slogan can be applied to all sorts of international concerns.

Counter-Protester Clarifies Circulars

Chris Pingel • March 30, 2007

To the Editor: As one of those who assisted with the counter-protest to the Pax Christi Die-in, I just wanted to make an important distinction. The fliers which discouraged a withdrawal from Iraq were not a product of the planners of the scheduled protest.

Freshman Supports Blue Crew Pres Hopeful

Jim Prebil • March 30, 2007

To the Editor: I am writing in response to the letter written by current Blue Crew President Diane Blaskiewicz and her response to the article written by Pat McShane a week earlier. I believe that Ms. Blaskiewicz took Mr. McShane's article in a specifically negative way and missed the finer points of what was said within it.