To the Editor: I am happy to report that construction of the Penn-assisted pre-K-8 school in University City is not "plagued by delays," contrary to the story that ran yesterday ("Delays plague pre-K-8 school," The Daily Pennsylvanian, 11/21/00). The project is moving steadily ahead, and groundbreaking is not far off. There is no change in the plan to enroll several initial sections of kindergarten and first grade next fall, and we eagerly look forward to the school opening its doors.
Stephen Schutt Vice President and Chief of Staff
Let's be realistic here
To the Editor: Michael Bassik must think the University of Pennsylvania Police Department is one lovey-dovey place ("UPPD really a melting pot," DP, 11/21/00). I just want to know how he came to the conclusion that racism cannot possibly exist in our esteemed police force. I suppose all those UA meetings with the brass proposing new focus groups is proof these folks are beyond reproach. And those minority officers who say the chief is nothing but wonderful? I guess that's tough to do when your name and picture are printed. The fact that minority officers are thrown out onto the streets after complaining about unfair treatment must mean they weren't happy to have their jobs to begin with. And all those lawsuits the University settled out of court? Well, we can't possibly allow a bunch of rogue wannabe cops drag Penn's good name into the mud.Kenny Yuen College '86
The writer is a former officer with the University of Pennsylvania Police Department.
A lot to be thankful for
To the Editor: I am a few hours from being in my nice warm house back in Denver, Colo. And while I have no homework or any other worldly worries, I'm pissed. The basic reason is that I could be at home making plans with friends for tonight rather than sitting here in my dormitory room at Penn. I'm not complaining about life at Penn. What I am complaining about is the way that professors tell you at the beginning of the semester that you must go to all classes and make travel plans around class. I did so, but not without hesitation. This Monday, my professors announced -- much to their own delight -- that we wouldn't have class the day before break. They announced it as though we should all be thankful. In my four years here, professors have played this game time and again. Freshman year, my 10 a.m. Friday Econ class was canceled in the room at 10 a.m. That morning, I got up, got ready and overcame my hangover to find out that I should have ditched class that day. Professors who selfishly cancel classes late in the game do only themselves a service. To professors: teach class or don't, but if you expect students to plan three months in advance to make time for your classes, reciprocate that favor by telling them when you will be canceling classes well in advance. With thanks to Professor Raff, who canceled today's class way back in September...Greg Kneser Wharton '01
The Daily Pennsylvanian is an independent, student-run newspaper. Please consider making a donation to support the coverage that shapes the University. Your generosity ensures a future of strong journalism at Penn.
DonatePlease note All comments are eligible for publication in The Daily Pennsylvanian.