Committed to community

To the Editor: I never made the statement attributed to me in Friday's Daily Pennsylvanian, ("University Responds to McPenntrification Claims," 2/9/01). I have spoken to Rev. Falcon to tell him the truth. I did not say anything even approximating the quote in the article. I told Rev. Falcon that I agree with his sentiment -- "it is an absolutely stupid statement" -- and that while there may be real areas of disagreement and issues to discuss, I never said, nor do I believe, that he has any "racial motives." In fact, such a statement flies in the face of the many and varied efforts we have been involved in over the past several years; working with other institutions, neighborhood groups and community organizations in a broad-based partnership to stimulate neighborhood revitalization. Our efforts have been dependent upon building strong and productive relationships, of listening to and learning from our neighbors. These collaborations have produced numerous programs of great benefit to the University and to our neighbors -- programs such as UC Brite, "lighting up" many University City neighborhoods, and UC Green, planting bulbs, trees and shrubs throughout the community. In addition, we have been involved in an aggressive program to ensure that minority- and women-owned businesses were among those who benefited from major construction projects. We have also been involved with programs to provide affordable housing choices for anyone who wants to live in this vibrant community, as well as partnerships with area schools and healthcare institutions to provide medical and dental screening to West Philadelphia schoolchildren. These are just a handful of our community initiatives -- there are many, many more. These efforts are all dependent on the quality of our relationships with our community, and we are committed to working very hard to keep those relationships strong and vital.

Carol Scheman Vice President for Government, Community and Public Affairs

To the Editor: Penn's loss to Princeton at the Palestra on Tuesday night was disgraceful enough without Coach Fran Dunphy's shameful treatment of Ryan Smiley. Smiley, a senior who has dominated at the junior varsity level for four years, was given the opportunity to dress for his one and only varsity appearance. With Penn getting spanked and the game out of reach in the final minutes, Dunphy should have put Smiley in, but refused to do so. Someone who has dedicated four years to Penn basketball deserves better treatment. Putting Smiley in would have produced at least a glimmer of respect in an otherwise dismal performance by Dunphy.

Aaron Karo Wharton '01

Please note All comments are eligible for publication in The Daily Pennsylvanian.