Search Results
Below are your search results. You can also try a Basic Search.
(11/06/96 10:00am)
The incumbent mayThe incumbent mayreturn to Washington,The incumbent mayreturn to Washington,but absentee ballotsThe incumbent mayreturn to Washington,but absentee ballotscould change the result. Michael Brus Crooning "On the Way to Cape May," the Philadelphia Phillies' organist competed with an Abe Lincoln look-alike for the attention of a restless, but confident crowd gathered to support incumbent Jon Fox (R-13th District) in his bid for reelection to the House of Representatives. Fox, surrounded by a thinned crowd of enthusiastic supporters, seemed to have won a second term by a 10-vote margin at approximately 1:30 this morning. But absentee ballots may alter the result after officials tabulate them on Friday. "As we predicted the entire night, we have more votes than [Democratic candidate Joseph] Hoeffel and a recount is not going to change that," said Fox aide Brian Miles. "We have declared victory and rescinding is not an option." The tight race did not hinder the festivities, with genteel social drinking dominating the affair. But nearing the close of the evening, many Fox supporters began to boo President Clinton as he appeared on the two large-screen televisions to declare victory. "It seems as if the U.S. is going to once again have a bi-partisan government," Fox said. "And we will have to work to make this a healthy situation." He admitted that his campaign -- which was criticized for its negative attacks -- did not encourage voter participation. But overall, voting in the district doubled, according to Del Rotelle, local election chairperson. Fox spent the majority of the evening mingling with his supporters, who reside in one of the wealthiest districts in the nation. Many attendees included young people who had first become acquainted with Fox when he spoke at their schools. "To tell you the truth, I hadn't heard of Fox until two weeks ago," said Fox volunteer Ben Kallemyn, a freshman at Valley Forge Military College. Fox visited the private all-male college while recruiting for student aid. The celebration was attended by young supporters of all ages, some from collegiate Young Republican clubs and others escorted by their parents. Fox said the varied crowd represented his commitment to education, adding that he is concerned about involving young people in "every aspect" of government. "One of my goals for the upcoming year is to make a student congress -- using students from Penn -- to come and assist me at the Capitol," Fox said. "This is the only way to make our country stronger." Also in attendance were many personal friends of Fox, including Nora Berlinger of Blue Bell, Pa., who first met the representative 30 years ago, thanks to her high school's Young Republican club. She said since then, her family has been "dyed in the wool" Republicans. Her husband, 1964 Penn graduate Richard Berlinger, said although he likes Fox, he didn't like the evening's beverage selection. "He's got to get a better brand of beer -- good God," Berlinger said. Crooning "On the Way to Cape May," the Philadelphia Phillies' organist competed with an Abe Lincoln look-alike for the attention of a restless, but confident crowd gathered to support incumbent Jon Fox (R-13th District) in his bid for reelection to the House of Representatives. Fox, surrounded by a thinned crowd of enthusiastic supporters, seemed to have won a second term by a 10-vote margin at approximately 1:30 this morning. Crooning "On the Way to Cape May," the Philadelphia Phillies' organist competed with an Abe Lincoln look-alike for the attention of a restless, but confident crowd gathered to support incumbent Jon Fox (R-13th District) in his bid for reelection to the House of Representatives. Fox, surrounded by a thinned crowd of enthusiastic supporters, seemed to have won a second term by a 10-vote margin at approximately 1:30 this morning.
(10/28/96 10:00am)
some students say administratorssome students say administratorsneed to speed up implementation. Six weeks ago, University President Judith Rodin released several financial initiatives aimed at increasing the number of minority faculty and students at the University and making Penn a more attractive place for minorities. But some members of minority groups on campus are concerned that University administrators have taken no further steps toward implementation of the program since Rodin announced it. The groups have taken different tacks in response to the administration's lack of action. Provost Stanley Chodorow said he is talking with students and faculty about plans for the use of the minority permanence funds, but said there is no definite schedule for implementation. "Those discussions have not yet led to conclusions," Chodorow said. "We want to do this well and need a thorough discussion of the options before putting things in motion." Rodin's Chief of Staff Steven Schutt added that the president and provost are now developing new ideas and strategies for minority recruitment and retention. "There will be further discussions and meetings in coming weeks," Schutt said. "Representatives from the Black Student League will certainly be among the participants, as will Latino students." Noting the importance of the initiatives Rodin announced last month, he said the University "wants to be sure that our planning is done carefully and inclusively." Under Rodin's new proposals, the University will earmark $5 million for the recruitment and retention of under-represented minority faculty and students, primarily blacks and Hispanics. In addition, every dollar given to an individual school within the University must be matched by that school, bringing the overall contribution up to $10 million. Representatives of minority groups that will benefit from the plan, including the BSL, La Asociacion Cultural de Estudiantes Latino Americanos (ACELA) and El Movimiento Estudiantil Chicano de Aztlan (MeChA), have offered varied responses to the University's current progress. According to BSL President Obinna Adibe, his organization is "working extremely hard" to improve relations with University administrators, but continues to seek more detailed information from many officials, including those involved with financial aid and the Office of the President. "Nothing really has been done in the past month, and it's past due," said Adibe, a College senior. "Sometimes, if the BSL and the faculty don't do anything, things will never get accomplished. "It's like trying to get a mule to move," Adibe said. "And we are a farmer that is tugging really hard, but if we don't tug the mule definitely won't move." BSL Vice President and College senior Sean Coleman said many of the current discussions about minority permanence should have taken place a long time ago, but added that the meetings mark a step in the right direction. Coleman described the BSL as "extremely motivated," noting that for the first time, the group has defined roles and delegated responsibilities. "We accept the administration's decision to give the minority students this money to work with -- it is an extremely political and bold move," Coleman said. "But if we don't take the opportunity by the horns, then all those who oppose us will say that we were given [monetary support] and still fell." Adibe said he feels students need to remember the important role they play at the University. "All students, including blacks, can do anything, because we are the people who pay the administrators," Adibe said. "I think students need to realize the power we have -- we pay too much money to go here to accept things we don't like." ACELA members said they agree with the BSL president's general sentiments, but are approaching Rodin's initiative through different routes. ACELA's United Minority Council representative, College sophomore Debralee Santos, said the group is "tremendously appreciative of the active investigation and information-gathering" of fellow minority groups, particularly the BSL. And ACELA continues to discuss the issue through UMC and faculty meetings, in addition to its newly formed internal committee designed to "review past initiatives and announce administrative efforts to increase minority presence on campus," Santos said. In general, ACELA does not plan to track the University's progress with its minority permanence plan actively, because members feel their time could be better spent on their own projects. "[ACELA is] genuinely excited about the proposal of additional support channeled into promoting minority recruitment and permanence," Santos said. "[But] given the lackluster success of past initiatives and demonstrably poor results, ACELA has redoubled its efforts into employing already established and ongoing opportunities that encourage Latino students to consider Penn as one of their choices." The group is currently concentrating on two upcoming programs -- Latino Pre-Applicants' Weekend and the Minority Scholars' Weekend. MeChA President and College senior Emmanuel Mejia said his group is currently promoting awareness of the plan but hopes to become more involved in the future. "We are very thankful that the BSL has done so much," Mejia said. "Without their efforts, often times the minority voice would not be heard on campus."
(10/25/96 9:00am)
Best-selling authorBest-selling authorsays programming,Best-selling authorsays programming,education are vital The Asian perspective faces a constant struggle for recognition, according to many members of the Asian/Pacific American community. And on the second night of Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week, the fight to make the Asian voice heard was portrayed through both historic and current viewpoints. A speech about the 1960s kicked off Tuesday night's events, which concluded with a candlelight vigil emphasizing the community's future. Addressing a group of 50, best-selling author and humanitarian Le Ly Hayslip spoke about her youth during the Vietnam War and her current relief efforts. The story of Hayslip is dramatized in Oliver Stone's film Heaven and Earth, which was based on her autobiography Child of War, Woman of Peace. Hayslip captured the group's attention by describing her prison experience -- which she describes as a life of "pain and triumph." "I have been tortured three times, but was one of the fortunate ones to escape," Hayslip said. "But sometimes I feel like Vietnam is still going on -- just because I am a woman and Vietnamese." Throughout her life, Hayslip faced many hardships -- a war-time childhood, rape and becoming pregnant by a married man at age 16. As one of the few survivors who became successful in the U.S., Hayslip said she wants to improve the lives of Vietnam's poorest people. In 1987, Hayslip founded the East Meets West Foundation, a non-profit humanitarian relief organization that provides programs in health care, rehabilitation, education and vocational training. She plans to expand the foundation this year to include other impoverished countries. "I cannot bring many people to my village to educate them about Vietnam," Hayslip said. "But I will bring my village to people through education and programming." After Hayslip's speech, a vigil was held on College Green where various local speakers commented on their experiences with racial violence. Lined with candles in memory of the victims of hate crimes, the Green near the peace sign was illuminated. One of the first speakers at the vigil was University graduate Helen Gim from Asian American United, a Philadelphia organization that provides anti-Asian violence education. "The justice system does not serve the Asian American community -- even here at this elite University," Gim said. "There was very little for me here as a Asian American. Why do we have to struggle so hard for the things we need?" Reflecting on the diverse cultures of the people present at the rally, Vice Provost for University Life Valarie Swain-Cade McCoullum said the issue of hate crime is an important one for all students. This year the University has not recorded any hate crimes, but McCoullum said throughout the past two years, incidences involving graffiti have occurred at Hillel and in several on-campus residences. "Even though there are not as many hate crimes here as at other universities, the incidences that have occurred are very troubling," McCoullum said. "I think the vigil was extremely important because it keeps the campus aware of the problem." Gim said the newly instituted Asian American studies program is a positive step, but there are many other areas that still need improvement. The first standing faculty from the program also addressed the vigil's crowd of approximately 100. Asian Studies Professor Mark Chung said he represents the large amount of energy that University students have devoted to furthering the program. "Knowledge is a form of power, and power operates through knowledge," Chung said. "This anti-racist knowledge will help exterminate future violence." Chung added that he feels honored to bring new knowledge to the University's Asian American community. One of the high points of the night occurred as College junior Inez Ramos's spoke, saying she came to show that the Latino community supports the Asian American struggle. "Latinos can relate to the struggle facing Asian American students," Ramos said. "I would like to see a bridge built between the two communities -- as well as between all students of color." Ramos added that she thinks change begins with education for everyone. The final speaker of the night, College senior Gloria Lee, emphasized similar points. Lee founded the first University umbrella group for Asian American students. "Asian American students should be treated equally, just like everyone else who walks down Locust Walk," Lee said.
(10/25/96 9:00am)
Ten years ago, women could not walk through the center of campus without being harassed by catcalls and racial epithets, according to Penn Women's Center Director Elena DiLapi. But according to the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations, the Penn Women's Center has since made great strides in overcoming those difficulties. In acknowledgement of these achievements, DiLapi and Women's Center Associate Director Gloria Gay, who have worked together for the past 18 years, will receive an award today from the commission for their "many efforts to promote inter-group harmony." Still adjusting to the center's new location on Locust Walk, DiLapi said the move is an even better award than the one she will receive today. She said the 300 people who attended the center's opening ceremonies and an increase in the numbers of people who are using the facility demonstrates the location's benefits. "We appreciate the support everyone has shown," DiLapi said. "And because of that support -- along with our new location -- women are no longer uncomfortable while walking to classes here." Social Work Professor Anu Rao nominated DiLapi and Gay for the award, noting the center's excellence in assisting victims of rape, sexual assault and racial and sexual harassment. Former U.S. Senator Harris Wofford (D-Pa.) is the commission's other award recipient. He is being honored for his recognition of the importance of health care reform, before the issue gained national attention. Vice Provost of University Life Valarie Swain-Cade McCoullum said this is the first time any University office has received an award of this caliber from the Philadelphia commission. "I think it is fabulous to have the Human Relations Commission give this award to the Penn community," McCoullum said. "I know both Eli and Gloria spent many hours providing support to Penn and serving as good neighbors to the people of Philadelphia." The Women's Center offers many support services to the residents of West Philadelphia, including counseling services. Now, for example, the center is currently assisting friends of suicide victim Kathy Change. The awards ceremony will take place at 10:45 a.m. today at the Pennsylvania Convention Center.
(10/24/96 9:00am)
Cheryl Lau is breaking the mold as the U.S. House of Representatives's general counsel. As keynote speaker Monday night for Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week, Lau discussed how Asian Americans can avoid being constrained by "cookie cutter" stereotypes. Assuming her post in the beginning of 1995, Lau became the first Asian American woman to serve as the top House lawyer -- responsible for the legal interests of the chamber and its 435 members. She described her current job, as well as her ascension through the professional world, as "not an easy task," noting that Asian Americans are often cast into passive roles in society. "All the world is a political stage and Asian Americans must be placed in front of the curtain and not behind it," she said. "We cannot change the past, but as a group we can learn about it." Citing historical examples, Lau said the U.S. has made Asian American life difficult, particularly with immigration issues. Lau said the xenophobic climate in the U.S. forced Asian American immigrants to "pull back and look to each other for assistance," resulting in the formation of support groups within their culture. "All of us know that there are as many differences between ourselves as among Europeans," Lau said. "We need to come together and begin to spread that message." She said the Asian American community should make learning about the differences in the various cultures a priority, while also concentrating on their similarities. Throughout her life, Lau has changed professions several times. She was a music teacher before she began to pursue a law degree. Then, she switched to politics after serving as a deputy attorney general in Nevada. Lau attributed her success to her mother, father and grandmother, who she considers her greatest role models. "We must rediscover our families," Lau added. "When we do that we will learn more about ourselves." She said people can derive moral strength from their relatives, adding that a "family-like" communication can expand with advances in technologies. Lau said the future of Asian Americans in the professional realm looks bright. "The answers lie here with all of you here in Philadelphia, not with me in D.C.," Lau said. "You are the people of the next century -- take advantage of that." Following the short speech, Lau fielded questions from the audience of 50 students. Many asked how they could change the "silent minority" stigma of Asian Americans while others questioned their future as a minority looking for employment. "This evening especially gave some of the seniors here a glimpse of the future," said APA advisor Alvin Alvarez, a psychologist with Counseling and Psychological Services, as the event came to a close. After the address, the group moved to Houston Hall's Bowl Room for a multicultural art display. Both the art display and the address were coordinated by Wharton junior Tiya Lim and College senior Daphne Nisperos, APA Week co-chairs. "This week's events display the diverse spectrum of Asian American interest, ranging from arts to politics," Lim said. Engineering junior Sang Kim said the week-long celebration affected both the APA members and the University. "Heritage week has a two-fold purpose," Kim said. "It is for the APA to celebrate their diversity, while continuing to include and educate the University campus."
(10/23/96 9:00am)
and Doree Shafrir Penn's "Magic Number" has come up -- and it has De La Soul written all over it. The popular hip-hop outfit will perform November 2 in Irvine Auditorium as part of Homecoming Weekend festivities, according to College senior Ian Corbin. Corbin is president of the Special Events Committee to Represent Undergraduate Minorities, which is sponsoring the concert. De La Soul cracked the Billboard Top 20 with this summer's Stakes is High. The group was formed by three high school friends from Amityville, N.Y., in 1988. Quickly signed to the Tommy Boy label, they released 3 Feet High and Rising six months later to critical and commercial success. The homecoming concert will also include up-and-coming hip-hop acts Foxy Brown and Kid Capri. The show, which begins at 8 p.m., will come in the midst of De La Soul's fall tour, which included a stop at the Trocadero in Center City earlier this week. Tickets for the show are $15 for students and $20 for the general public. Corbin said tickets will be sold on Locust Walk all week and are also available at the Annenberg Center ticket office. According to Corbin, SPEC-trum focuses on developing University-sponsored cultural events. "The aim is to bring diversity and quality entertainment to students," he said. SPEC-trum already sponsored four events this year and has several lined up for the spring semester, according to Corbin. One of 10 committees within the Social Planning and Events Committee, SPEC-trum's membership has greatly increased this year, Corbin added. "SPEC-trum has been establishing a very good tradition to bring quality acts to Penn," SPEC President and College senior Melissa Muniz said. SPEC-trum also sponsors the annual Penn Relays concert, which last year brought the Fugees to the University.
(10/21/96 9:00am)
Asian Americans comprise 25 percent of the University community -- and this week, the campus will be exposed to the sights, sounds and tastes of their cultures. Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week, the only combined effort of all 18 University Asian groups, represents the culmination of work by 140 students, faculty and staff. Last year, the annual event attracted more than 3,000 people and this year's week promises to be even stronger, according to the event's advisor, Alvin Alvarez, a psychologist with Counseling and Psychological Services. "This week is a chance for the entire University to come together to learn and share," said Karlene Burrell, assistant director of the Greenfield Intercultural Center. "Everyone is welcome -- there is no excuse for anyone not to get involved." Alvarez said one of the reasons behind this event-filled week is the "issue of invisibility" for Asian students on campus. He added that the public often focuses on issues involving black verses white cultures, while completely overlooking the Asian population -- a major segment of the campus and the country. The University officially recognizes approximately 14 different Asian American cultural groups, but the U.S. Census Bureau recognizes 30 various cultures, with more than 100 different dialects. "These events are a statement of our presence on campus and show how we are reaching out to the entire community," Alvarez said. "This is also a glimpse of who we are and where we came from." Heritage Week is described as a "centerpiece" for the Asian community because of the opportunity it provides for the many groups to work together. Before the event started four years ago, the groups on campus rarely combined their efforts, Alvarez said. Burrell said the events improve in quality every year and this year's package appears to be one of the best. She said for the last several weeks, all people involved have been working late hours at the GIC. "This is big -- it is an event for Asian Americans, but it is not inclusive," Burrell said. "I know some Latinos, blacks and whites that are involved with the projects. Hey, I even got conned in." Last November, an executive board comprised of 20 people began planning the events for this year, led by co-chairs Tiya Lim, a Wharton junior and College senior Daphne Nisperos. This year, the board made an effort to represent women better, something that had not been a priority in the past. The two major speakers of the week are both women -- and are not Chinese or Japanese, another change from past years. Lim said that last night, the board was concentrating on the final touches for the week's events. "We are going over a few holes that have appeared, but there isn't a lot to do at this point," Lim said. "I think the board is going to celebrate with a cake." This evening, Cheryl Lau, former chief general counsel to Congress and former secretary of state for Nevada, will be speaking in Stiteler B-6 at 7 p.m. Lau is also running for Congress this year. The groups will host a candlelight vigil Tuesday night, paying homage to Asian Pacific American victims of hate crimes in the U.S. Alvarez said the national level of anti-Asian hate crimes has increased 300 percent over the past year. "Incidents of anti-Asian hate crime have even happened on this campus, especially jumpings and muggings," Alvarez said. "And because of the repeal [two years ago] of the racial harassment code, there is no systematic way to deal with the issue. "If you don't have a law in the books, there are never any violations," he said. "A lot of my kids feel like the hate crime is part of life in West Philly." Several new events have been included on this year's schedule, including a job fair and a political forum. The week will conclude Saturday with an "Epiphany" party, which includes an award ceremony and charity gala. SPECTRUM and the GIC are sponsoring the October 21-October 27 event. The Special Events Committee, through Connaissance, is also giving funds to APA Heritage Week.
(10/18/96 9:00am)
After eating dinner at Stouffer, getting stuck in a high rise elevator and staying up all night talking to his roommate, Girard College High School senior Darrell Lazier described his first taste of college life as "pretty cool." Lazier was one of 30 high school juniors and seniors who participated in the Kite and Key Society's "Through College Doors" program last week. Organizers of the new program hope it will expose area students to the "collegiate experience" and encourage them to take a serious interest in higher education. "As college students, we are in a perfect position to take young students and clear up any confusions or misconceptions that they might have about college," said Kite and Key Community Project Coordinator Yoneco Evans, a College junior. "There are so many things they can learn from us and our experiences that they couldn't get from a college recruiter," she added. Throughout the two-day program last Tuesday and Wednesday, the high schoolers attended classes, learned about financial aid and participated in workshops on essay writing. An ice cream social Tuesday night included a performance by The Inspiration, an a cappella group. University students volunteered to host the juniors and seniors from three local high schools. "Everyone treated us so nicely during the two days," said West Philadelphia High School junior Derrick Scott. "Now I know what steps I need to take throughout my last two years of high school." According to Evans, the program is not an attempt to recruit students to the University -- although she said many students who participate are interested in attending Penn. She added that the skills they learn during the workshops can be used in applying to any college or university. On Wednesday morning during a Hill College House breakfast, many of the high schoolers said they felt the effects of staying up late Tuesday night. "It was fun -- definitely a good experience, but it's too early to be awake," said West Philadelphia High School senior Shawn Thompson. "I loved my host and stayed up late watching television and talking to friends." Guidance counselors from the high schools selected this group of program participants. Their interests and future plans varied greatly. West Philadelphia High School senior Mike Hatch said he has not decided what he wants to do after high school, but added that he does not want his choice to be "fake." But Scott already has a job at the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy and Science and is narrowing his list of potential colleges. The University's Admissions Office participated in the two-day program, especially the lectures and workshops. And many host volunteers said they enjoyed assisting the pre-freshmen. "The reason I came to Penn was a similar program to this," said host Richard Adzei, a College freshman. "Now it is my turn to give back."
(10/17/96 9:00am)
Surrounded by glowing candles, a College freshman mounted the steps in front of the peace sign on College Green, and turned to face the small gathering of University community members. "Well Penn, I'm a freshman and I'm gay," he said. "And you don't realize how hard it is for me to say that." Sharing his experience with the University community had a two-fold purpose for the freshman who came out "publicly" less than a year ago. While instilling self-confidence, the testimony also supported those who were not comfortable talking about their homosexuality. Last Thursday, the Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual Alliance held a candlelight vigil on College Green to commemorate National Coming Out Day. LGBA members said the candles stood for everyone who has aided in the gay and lesbian movement -- from people who "wore a button to those who died for sexuality." An open microphone was available for any person who wished to speak and a group of approximately 30 people gathered to take advantage of the opportunity. College senior Maria Gonzalez and Engineering junior Dan Weiner, who co-chair the LGBA, led the proceedings, which lasted an hour. "As we have said over and over again, it's difficult and a challenge and we're brave and strong and we should be proud and hold our heads up because we are now stronger," Gonzalez said about the struggle of homosexuals and bisexuals at the University. "I can remember my freshman year when there were people saying the very same thing about our community -- but they were fewer in number, especially as undergraduates." Gonzalez, Weiner and the other LGBA students expressed gratitude for many of their advisors, including Women's Center Director Elena DiLapi and Lesbian Gay and Bisexual Center Director Bob Schoenberg. DiLapi was the only University official to speak during the vigil. She read an excerpt from her favorite novel and shared her views on homosexuality. "These people who gathered here tonight are the diligent few -- the young and new and committed," DiLapi said. "I think that together we are really changing the face of this organization." Students also shared humorous experiences they have had while dealing with difficult situations. One University freshman shared an anecdote with the group about his transition to Penn. "I'm from a small town in Wisconsin, so the move to Philadelphia is a big shift for me," he said. "My friends used to joke that I was moving to Philly because it is the 'city of brotherly love'." College senior Vanessa Eisemann said although the campus is becoming more educated about lesbians, she feels many people misunderstand her life. "It's not just a phase," Eisemann said. "I have heard so many people say that I am doing it because it's cool now, but that is just not true." The LGBA held a dance last Friday night and capped off last week's National Coming Out Days with a Saturday bus trip to view the AIDS Quilt in Washington, D.C.
(10/11/96 9:00am)
National Coming Out Day, celebrated today, encourages gays, lesbians and bisexuals to open up to family and friends -- or "come out of the closet" -- about their homosexuality. The University has sponsored activities throughout the week to promote the event, including a candlelight vigil at the peace sign on College Green last night. According to Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual Alliance Co-Chairperson and Engineering junior Dave Weiner, the week-long campaign aimed to support those who are openly gay and others who have not yet come out to friends and family. "Coming out of the closet can be an enormously difficult and long struggle for people who are gay, lesbian and bisexual," Weiner said. "This week is a way of not only celebrating those who have come out of the closet, but it is also a way to paying tribute to those who are still in the closet -- and let them know that some of us have come out and survived." In events leading up to today's Coming Out Day, the LGBA sponsored a discussion called "Queer Genetic Pride," a movie night, a "Questioning Rap Group" and yesterday's vigil. The LGBA is also planning a dance for tonight, to be held at 4015 Baltimore Street. And Saturday a group of students will take a bus to Washington, D.C. to view the AIDS quilt. This year's events have been slightly modified from past years in hopes of appealing to more of the gay, lesbian and bisexual community, Weiner said. College and Wharton senior Ron Jenkins noted that this year, openly gay students will not pop out of the button sculpture on College Green, as they have done in the past to symbolize their coming out. Jenkins said he considers the button event "a bit patronizing." LGBA Communications Secretary and College sophomore Alex Gino said the national significance of the week makes her feel connected to friends who attend other schools. Some campuses observe only National Coming Out Day, but others, such as Penn, hold several events throughout the week, according to Director of the Lesbian, Gay and Bisexual Center Bob Schoenberg. "Having events on campus is really beneficial, even if it is just to show the community that there are gay people on campus," College sophomore Steven Huang said. "Plus, it sends a message to people who are still in the closet." Schoenberg said that National Coming Out Day have a similar purpose to March's Bisexual Gay Lesbian and Transgendered Awareness Days. "They both have two-pronged objectives," Schoenberg said. "First, to celebrate the lesbian, gay and bisexual community and foster a sense of pride within it -- and second, to educate the general Penn community." According to Schoenberg, National Coming Out Day is particularly important because outsiders "almost always assume that you are heterosexual until you tell them otherwise." "Unfortunately, the risks of homo-hatred are great and some people cannot afford to pay the price -- or enjoy the benefits -- of being out," he said. "It is those people who we acknowledge at the candlelight vigil."
(10/10/96 9:00am)
Sensormatic Electronics Corporation will provide the University with a $3 million-plus cutting-edge safety technology system under the provisions of a contract finalized yesterday after more than a year of negotiations. Sensormatic will establish an integrated security system including the installation of closed-circuit television cameras on the streets and biometric handprint sensors in dorms. In addition, the company will upgrade equipment for intrusion alarms and blue-light phones, and design a central command and control center for the University. Sensormatic was the official electronic security supplier for the 1996 Summer Olympic Games in Atlanta. According to Public Safety Managing Director Thomas Seamon, the entire project will cost more than $3 million. At a press conference in Houston Hall yesterday, Executive Vice President John Fry said the University is now shifting its focus from short-term initiatives, like additional police officers and security guards, to long-term planning. "We have been working with Sensormatic for over a year on a long-term security strategy to deal systematically, thoroughly and successfully with the crime problem," Fry said. "Today, we are here to talk about bringing the premiere security technology to Penn -- and that is because of our partnership with the premiere safety and design company." Seamon said University Police and the additional security guards will complement the state-of-the-art technology that Sensormatic will bring to the entire campus and surrounding areas. He added that by bringing new technology into University buildings and residences, security guards will be able to focus their attention on the streets outside of the dormitories themselves. Once all new technology is in place, Public Safety will reduce the large number of campus security guards, Public Safety Security Director Chris Algard said. "It's not like my company is trying to be like 'Big Brother'," said Steve Hall, commercial and industrial vice president for Sensormatic's North American operations. "The purpose of technology is to free people to deal with the more crucial problems." Beginning next week, the University will install additional cellular blue-light phones, a move that will allow more freedom in where the phones can be put. Once the new phones are in place, Public Safety will install closed-circuit television cameras on the designated Community Walks throughout campus. Remote-controlled cameras will be strategically placed between blue-light phones, allowing police officers to monitor the area quickly. All programmable cameras will be able to spin 360 degrees and swing 180 degrees in less than a second, Hall said. "Closed circuit cameras are a fact of life today," Seamon said. "You can't walk to an ATM machine or a grocery store without encountering one." Hall explained that the cameras will provide police with important information like what emergency vehicles to dispatch to the crime scene. The most advanced phase of the new technology initiatives will combine personal and electronic verification in the dorms. Biometric readers will verify the person's identification and control access to buildings in a more effective and efficient manner. The readers can scan hand prints and block entrance for anyone whose print is not in the security computer system, even if the person uses a valid PennCard. And the portal system will require people to go through two separately locked gates to enter a residence. A valid hand print will allow passage through the second entrance. "This technology is necessary to upgrade dorm security so we can depend less on guards for use inside buildings," Algard said. "The new systems are the wave of the future. Penn can either catch on now or later." Biometric readers and safety gates resembling those found in airports will be installed in pilot areas within six months, Algard said. The entire identification process will take approximately eight seconds, and will not be used during times of heavy traffic. Seamon said he wants to implement all the new residence technology within the next two years. New York University currently uses hand geometry, but does not use chamber entranceways. Penn would be the first university to use the full biometric portal system. The "heart of all the new technology" will be located at a central command and control center, according to Hall. Seamon said the center will initially be located at the current police station, but will be transplanted to a new police building in the near future. The University is attempting to construct or acquire a new police building in the vicinity of 40th Street. "One of our prime concerns is getting our headquarters in shape," Seamon said. "The center will be as high-tech as we can get." Seamon stressed that the University will not "build a wall around the campus," but instead is securing the entire area for both the University and West Philadelphia communities. Fry said the University will need to "rethink" the use of funds in order to pay for the new technology, but added that University President Judith Rodin has set aside money for this project. Tuition should not need to increase to accommodate safety expenditure, he said. Seamon said he plans to work with the University community "every step of the way." Within the next few months, he will meet with the vice provost for University Life and the Residential Advisory Board, along with the University's Safety and Security and Open Expression committees. "From a University perspective, this is our largest project -- especially because Penn is one large university," Hall said. "You have a beautiful 63-block campus with over 200 buildings, but you need to properly secure it from the city environment." Rodin called the partnership with Sensormatic especially exciting, because the company has worked previously with many Fortune 500 companies and, more importantly, other colleges and universities. RAB Chairperson and College junior Josh Rockoff said the new technology seems "really interesting," but voiced concerns about the project's timetable. "As we all recognize, this is something that should have been done a while ago," he said. "I am worried [that] as the hubbub over security dies down, this project will take longer to complete."
(10/07/96 9:00am)
ROTC programROTC programbuilds futureROTC programbuilds futuremilitary leaders,ROTC programbuilds futuremilitary leaders,working to alterROTC programbuilds futuremilitary leaders,working to alteroutside negativeROTC programbuilds futuremilitary leaders,working to alteroutside negativeperceptions Wharton senior Paul Beliveau finds it nearly impossible to walk down Locust Walk at a leisurely pace. Some passerbys smile, others step out of his path -- while the inquisitive few stop to question him about the U.S.-Haiti relationship or the University's new safety initiatives. Beliveau's persona has nothing to do with the variety of reactions that greet him. Instead, it is his attire -- a United States Army uniform -- that marks him as battalion command sergeant major in the University's Army Reserve Officer Training Core program. Because of the widely varied perceptions of military service on campus, Beliveau said he spends 30 minutes traveling from the high rises to Van Pelt Library when representing his program in an uniform. In addition to the Army program, the University offers Naval ROTC. Students interested in the Air Force can participate through a program at St. Joseph's University. Some others involved in ROTC said they are trying to dispel misconceptions of those outside the program. "We are not the Citadel. It's relaxed here -- people still have a social life," said Nursing senior Angie Potter, who is the cadet fund manager. "There's a really good chance that if you talk to anyone on campus, they will know at least one person in ROTC." Lt. Colonel Ted Majer, who heads Army ROTC, noted that the program boasts a diverse group in both gender and race. "There is no other diverse organization that is as large and successful as the Army and the ROTC program," Majer said. "We work under high moral standards and strive for fairness." During the past several years, the ROTC program has come under fire at Penn and other universities. Opponents charge that the Defense Department's "don't ask, don't tell" policy governing homosexuals is unfairly discriminatory. Some campus groups at Penn, including the Lesbian Gay Bisexual Alliance, say the Defense Department regulations conflict with the University's non-discrimination policy. But last spring, despite dissent, the University decided not to change its relationship with ROTC. Battalion Executive Officer and College senior Ryan Nielson maintains the "don't ask, don't tell" policy is not an issue. "During my four years here, the policy has never once been an issue or problem," he said. "It doesn't even come up." The Army ROTC program's ultimate goal involves commissioning the Army's future officer leadership by offering high-quality training. The inclusion of mentoring is the most important difference between the University's programming and other methods of training officers. According to Nielsen, the leadership training is available to any student, regardless of his or her desire to become an officer in the Army. He emphasized the importance of fostering leadership and ROTC's development of a "train and evaluate" method for growth. "We must grade something that is ungradeable -- leadership," Nielson said. "Quality leadership is the finished product of years of training and experience." With Majer's arrival as the new director of military science three years ago, the University's Army ROTC inherited a new direction. Majer is not considered part of the University faculty, but he teaches classes for the cadets and brought a new focus on teaching. "Penn students can be placed in a plethora of leadership positions -- but ROTC is the only program that prepares people so they will not flop," Majer said. "I will not let one of my students stumble along with a position. ROTC is a growing and learning experience." This year, there are 71 students in the University's battalion, which includes those from the other participating schools in the area. ROTC uses a three-part process to develop followers into leaders. At weekly classes and labs, experienced seniors fine-tune their skills by maintaining complete control over the Penn battalion, which includes students from La Salle University, Rowan College, Philadelphia College of Pharmaceutical Science, St. Joe's and Rutgers University at Camden. Juniors in the program are classified as young leaders during what is considered the program's most crucial year. They spend the year thoroughly learning leadership techniques and preparing for their largest test -- a six-week program that takes place during the summer before their senior year. The freshman and sophomore phase includes introductory learning and training that help students gain confidence in their abilities. Engineering junior Julia Oh is beginning to see the results of her first two years of training. At a 6 a.m. lab session last Wednesday, Oh taught groups of younger cadets the basic military skills they need to be officers -- marking the first time she was on the other side of the desk. "This leadership process works," Oh said. "Because I was [the] cadet in charge last week, this task was not difficult for me. I have to be prepared so I don't look like a fool, but I already have the necessary skills." Army ROTC also offers several advanced training programs, including the Ranger Challenge, which is described as the "varsity sport" of ROTC. In the Ranger Challenge, a group of nine cadets must work together to accomplish physically and mentally challenging tasks. Battalion Operations and Training leader and Engineering senior Mark Andres, who is very involved with the University's Ranger Challenge program, explained that cadets particularly learn accountability from the program. Unlike most other universities that offer ROTC, Penn will not grant credit for military courses or labs. Schools like Notre Dame University and La Salle count ROTC as a full-credit class. Andres said although the extensive work without class credit is difficult, the people who remain in the program are extremely dedicated as a result.
(10/07/96 9:00am)
Black alumni to pairBlack alumni to pairup with currentBlack alumni to pairup with currentundergraduates The Black Student League and the Black Alumni Society are coming together in an unusual partnership to develop a new mentoring program based on "faith, hope and love." The program plans to allow W.E.B. DuBois College House alumni to "give back" to the undergraduate community by offering support in several areas -- including course planning, campus life and academic tutoring. By utilizing their resources, BAS members said they hope to make students' college experiences more fulfilling. A host of supporters attended a kick-off event for the program last Thursday at DuBois House. University Chaplain William Gipson opened the gathering by describing those involved in the program as "soldiers." "We are intent on keeping hope alive -- and it takes love and faith to accomplish our goal," Gipson said. "The kind of love that is shown through this mentoring program will keep faith alive." DuBois Faculty Master Howard Stevenson said the new program fits into the overall goals of the house. "It takes a community to raise a whole village," the Education professor said, adding that DuBois House creates a "safe haven" for minority students. The mentor program is this year's first major initiative that integrates the academic and cultural aspects of the house. "We all need help to support us through our struggles -- and this mentor program will support students on a number of levels," Stevenson said. Focusing on "one-on-one" sessions, the program is individually designed and formatted to sustain long-term relationships between the alumni and current students. Also, a unique matching process will create the sets of partners for the project. People can apply for positions in the program through Friday. University President Judith Rodin served as the night's keynote speaker, focusing on the coordination that developed the mentor program. "It really is wonderful for me to see the Black Alumni Society coming and joining the students in this project to build a community together," Rodin said. "The students are very active in voicing what they want -- and I think this program is answering their calls." She said the mentoring provides a "wonderful opportunity of interchange of knowledge" and stressed the importance of tutoring, especially for students who "feel in a minority." BSL representatives were also present to describe their role in the new program, which is one of their key projects this semester. Many students said they thought the project was "unusual and needed," and added that they hoped to become involved with it.
(10/07/96 9:00am)
Be in formation with gear no later than 5:50 a.m. "Hoo-hah." How is the 30-degree weather treating you, cadet? "Hoo-hah, sir." Lean backwards into position and rappel. [Translation: jump off a 40-foot wall.] "Hoo-hah. Aaaahhhhh?" Hoo-hah is sometimes described as the most-used word in military language -- for which there is a reasonable explanation. In everyday language, the expression means "heard," "understood" and "acknowledged." Battalion Commander and Engineering senior Steve Bisbee addressed 70 students at the commencement of their Field Training Exercise in Fort Dix, N.J., last weekend, explaining why every one of them would repeatedly sound off with "hoo-hah" throughout the weekend. "Courage is contagious." Bisbee said. "We will all build character as cadets." The University Army ROTC program, known as the Crusader Battalion, trained students in basic rifle marksmanship, garrison operations, team work, land navigation and rappelling during the weekend exercises. And in both evaluation and self-analysis formats, thousands of key aspects of leadership were recorded on small white, blue and yellow cards and later discussed in detail, forming the foundation for the entire weekend's training. But the crucial growing experiences occurred in overcoming challenges -- exactly what Bisbee predicted on the initial day of training. Rappelling, firing M-16s and running obstacle courses produced an unmatched sense of personal pride. And the many team events, such as Leadership Reaction Courses, forced a group to work together cohesively to accomplish a task. Challenges for the younger cadets arose mostly from the training conditions, such as the cold weather and poor food. La Salle University freshman Mike Gallagheo said the "food sucked" and complained about how early the cadets were required to wake up. But Gallagheo said the overall training was beneficial. College freshman Andrew Exum said he was proud and satisfied as he boarded the bus to go back to school after the three day trial. "Our high-speed team of 10 Rangers mastered most of the tasks required of us two weeks from now at our Ranger Challenge competition," he said. Most of the freshman and sophomore students spent the weekend accomplishing specific goals, while the students who occupied leadership positions had tasks that were harder to evaluate qualitatively. Battalion Executive Officer and College senior Ryan Nielsen assumed more leadership responsibilities than usual because other officers left the group to participate in another training exercise called the Ranger Challenge. Nielsen called the weekend a learning experience, especially after his operation order was changed. "The one thing I have learned is that in order to survive you must be flexible," Nielsen said. Bisbee discussed the weekend with the group's cadre during the bus ride home. He said he considered the weekend a success, but found points where even the seniors need "fine-tuning." Bisbee said no matter what the cadets had specifically accomplished over the weekend, they all gained a general sense of the importance of Army ROTC. "After one cadet finished rappelling, he came and found me to say what a fun time he had," Bisbee said. "The cadet added that he can't understand why the Army has to pay people to do it. That one statement makes everything worth it."
(10/04/96 9:00am)
UMC discusses ideas,UMC discusses ideas,concerns with Rodin Every Wednesday evening, a small group gathers to work toward its chosen mission -- establishing a strong minority voice at the University. The United Minorities Council, an umbrella group for 11 minority student organizations, has been developing close ties with University administrators and the student body to solidify its presence on campus. "I believe a great number of students are represented by us, but it is not our aim to represent every student of color at Penn," said UMC President Susie Lee, a College senior. "That is not our purpose. Our purpose and vision is to give Penn a voice that addresses issues pertaining to students of color." While stressing that the organization cannot please all students on campus, Lee said she is excited about the possibilities for the UMC during the upcoming year. The major issues the group plans to address include obtaining a UMC seat on University Council, minority permanence and randomized housing. The UMC also hopes to improve internal relations within constituent groups. "Every chair has a different vision, but my primary goal for UMC is to build a closer bond between the 11 groups," Lee said. "It is something we are going to consistently work on." In conjunction with this goal, all constituent groups are required to co-sponsor two events during the year, most of which will likely be social programs. Last year, these joint efforts included ice skating, dinners and parties. Lee is a key organizer for most UMC events, according to South Asian Society President Neal Shah, a Wharton senior. "Susie and the entire UMC is always there to help us out -- we have someone to turn to when we have certain problems like finding a hall or publicizing one of our events," Shah said. "The one thing that UMC does especially well is facilitate communication with the University, especially with bureaucracy." UMC leaders met with University President Rodin Wednesday to discuss issues like the safety of the Greenfield Intercultural Center -- where UMC meetings are held -- and the representation of minority students on campus. The meeting also focused on the lack of the University's ethnic-based academic programs, especially compared with other Ivy League schools. Lee said Rodin hopes to eventually form more departments along those lines -- especially in areas like Asian American Studies, where two new professors were recently hired. Shah said the UMC has made progress with Rodin, though sometimes a "bureaucratic struggle" takes place and important goals do not get accomplished. At this year's first UMC meeting, the body discussed a similar apprehension concerning Rodin's new minority permanence plan. Some members said they believe the plan's details could divide the Black Student League and the UMC. The BSL is investigating where the $35 million recently allocated for minority students has been dispersed. But the relationship between all constituent groups is strong, according to Lee, especially following a well-attended fall retreat. "Susie Lee has been very supportive of BSL's efforts in the recruitment and retention of black students and faculty," said BSL President Obinna Adibe, a College senior. "The UMC's advocacy plays a pivotal role in our efforts and I have faith that they will continue to be behind us." Because of the UMC's strength this year, the group plans to reach out to other organizations and continue to expand. UMC Vice Chairperson and College sophomore Olivia Troye noted that the group was involved with MTV's recent "Choose or Lose" expedition to campus and plans to participate in several more University-wide events, including Safety Week. "I think that we are going to get involved with the Penn community in general and work with other big organizations on campus to get involved in major issues that concern minorities as a whole, as well as the rest of Penn," Troye said. UMC Programming Coordinator Tope Koledoye, a College junior, is now scheduling weekly meetings to organize Unity Week. In addition, the group is preparing for Minority Scholars Weekend, which has been moved to April this year. The UMC is also in the process of developing a newsletter to announce upcoming events. Troye said two new groups -- the Penn Taiwanese Society and CheckOne -- have expressed interest in joining UMC this year and will probably be accepted. Another group, Global Village, is not planning to join the UMC, but wants to schedule programs with all constituent groups. "I think the importance of UMC's Wednesday meetings are getting to know members of other minority groups and learning about their events," said Engineering sophomore Rohit Desai, who is a member of the South Asia Society. "I think co-sponsoring events and meeting new people helps enrich our lives at Penn and that is necessary for breaking the barriers that sometimes exist between different races and cultures." Lee noted that any student who is a member of one of UMC's constituent groups is automatically a member of the UMC. "All groups are on equal footing and watch out for each other," Lee said. "By the end of the semester, everyone knows each other well."
(10/03/96 9:00am)
After only one year in post, Jenious leaves U. to be with, care for her elderly parents After serving for one year as executive director of the Office of Affirmative Action, Anita Jenious abruptly left the position last Friday to take a similar post near her home in Tennessee. Jenious made the decision to return home in order to care for her elderly parents. She has accepted the position of affirmative action director at Tennessee State University in Nashville. In dealing with the "unexpected blow," University President Judith Rodin's Chief of Staff Stephen Schutt announced that Social Work Professor Howard Arnold will act as the office's interim director. Schutt said the search for a new director will begin immediately, adding that he hopes to fill the position within the next few months. "We understand why Anita left, but it is very unfortunate to lose her," he said. "It is crucial to find a qualified replacement as soon as possible, but searches are always unpredictable." In a letter circulated Tuesday, Schutt explained that Arnold, who formerly chaired a committee on affirmative action programs, "will be present in the office two days each week and will provide invaluable guidance, oversight and support." Before leaving the University last Friday, Jenious addressed a group at Houston Hall about the "changing role of affirmative action." "Anita did a very good job while she was here," Schutt said. "She was very lucky to find an opening so quickly." Provost Stanley Chodorow said the University is unfortunate to lose Jenious after such a short period of time. According to Chodorow, her primary roles included working with staff issues and overseeing search processes. He said Jenious' departure will not affect the implementation of Rodin's new minority permanence plan. However, when the plan was announced two weeks ago, Jenious became immediately involved in discussions on the issue. "The University needs to clarify its goals," Jenious said last week in reference to the new minority permanence plan. "It will take commitment from faculty, administration and students alike to increase the presence of people of color on this campus." Jenious came to Penn from Vanderbilt University, where she served as assistant director of the school's Opportunity Development Center. Arnold, her interim replacement, has taught at the University since 1969. In addition, he has served as a member of the Faculty Senate Executive Committee and as Faculty Master of W.E.B. DuBois College House. "We are very sorry about [Jenious'] departure," Schutt said. "President Rodin and I are delighted that Arnold has agreed to provide this important service to the office and the University."
(10/01/96 9:00am)
A professor in the Graduate School of Education used intimidation and propaganda to prevent a home for the mentally ill from opening in his suburban neighborhood, a federal lawsuit charges. Paul McDermott, chairperson of GSE's Psychology of Education Department, will be served today with formal documents alleging he "conducted a campaign of slander, hate and fear against the disabled" in Bucks County, Pa. The suit, filed last Wednesday in U.S. District Court, also accuses McDermott's wife, Andrea, of using fear tactics to halt the home's development. McDermott has been a member of the GSE faculty since 1977, according to Maureen Cotterill, administrative coordinator for the Psychology of Education Department. He currently teaches classes in research, design, methodology, psychological assessment, advanced multivariable statistics and advanced psychometric methods. "Dr. McDermott will continue to teach his classes as far as I know," Cotterill said. "I speak to him every day, but we do not discuss the lawsuit." In the lawsuit, Salisbury House Inc., based in Allentown, Pa., claims the McDermotts forced the company to withdraw its plans to open a home for mentally ill adults. The suit says the couple distributed more than 1,000 leaflets portraying the home as an "imminent danger" and told the media "these are not the kind of people you want in the community." Edmond Tiryak, attorney for Salisbury House, described the situation as "brutally bizarre." "By day, McDermott educates Penn kids about mental disabilities," said Tiryak, a 1974 graduate of the University's Law School who devotes his practice to civil rights cases. "By night, he returns home and threatens potential neighbors. His tactics are no different than Klan members running a black family out of a neighborhood," Tiryak added. Thomas York, attorney for the McDermotts, said his clients deny all charges brought against them. "By far, safety consideration for themselves and the neighborhood is Paul and Andrea's largest concern about the Salisbury House," York said. "Also, they were not the only people who opposed the residence. If you polled the neighborhood, I am sure the McDermotts would have overwhelming support." The lawsuit alleges that the McDermotts led a neighborhood protest that generated hysteria among residents, in violation of the federal Fair Housing Amendments Act. The suit, which seeks unspecified damages, claims that Paul McDermott portrayed himself as an psychology expert and used the University's name without authorization. Last month, Salisbury House notified officials in Bucks County that it was abandoning plans to buy and convert an old farmhouse on a three-acre lot into a residence for mentally ill adults. The farmhouse is across the street from the McDermotts' home. According to the lawsuit, the protest led by the McDermotts created such a "storm of rage and lawlessness," including threats to destroy the home, that the company was forced to give up its "lawful right to use the property." York disagrees with that description of the McDermotts' protest. "The lawsuit is a gross exaggeration -- definitely not an account of what really happened," he said. "They claim Paul used psychological warfare, but I have seen no evidence of wrong action." But Tiryak said Salisbury House officials were clearly "intimidated" out of the Bucks County area as a direct result of the McDermotts' actions. "The McDermotts poisoned the community so badly that Salisbury House could not proceed," Tiryak said. Salisbury House hoped to open the group home to nine mentally ill people "who needed a residential placement due to a mental health crisis, but who were not sufficiently ill to require a hospital stay," the suit says. A leaflet drafted by the McDermotts and circulated to more than 1,000 area homes claimed the occupants of the home could pose a "direct risk" to neighbors, the suit states. York said the McDermotts were especially concerned because there were a day care center and elementary school in the area. But the lawsuit states that the Salisbury House offered to give tours of other similar homes currently in operation to reassure neighbors about safety concerns. "I have seen a lot of zoning hearings where uneducated people ruin plans for important housing of disabled people," Tiryak said. "But this is the first time that a distinguished and educated person has used a university name to promote common misconceptions." Salisbury House officials have asked the Pennsylvania Human Relations Committee to file charges against McDermott.
(09/26/96 9:00am)
An outpouring of student concern over yesterday's shooting has clogged the University's crisis response systems -- crashing the e-mail account of the Vice Provost for University Life and forcing University Police to create an emergency telephone line. And officials have put together an emergency complement of counseling opportunities and forums for student reaction to help the University community cope with the recent crime and violence. VPUL Valarie Swain-Cade McCoullum began an "ambitious" project yesterday to respond to Wednesday's incident by distributing an e-mail message to all University students with registered e-mail accounts. The 17,000 electronic letters are being distributed in groups, a process that will be finished within 24 to 36 hours. Distributing all the messages simultaneously would cause the University's computer system to fail. But administrators and Information Systems and Computing officials did not adequately predict the volume of student response the letter would solicit. At press time last night, 2,000 students had received the message and McCoullum received almost 800 responses -- a flow that caused a system failure. "Thank you so much for all the responses, but in light of their volume and the toll they are taking on the system -- please try to contact the Penn Police directly," McCoullum advised students. "But please continue to respond." University Police have developed a new telephone number, 898-8848, to handle all calls dealing with the shooting and recent crime. McCoullum said the number has been established to handle suggestions, advice and support. McCoullum's e-mail letter gives the number of Public Safety Special Services, but students should no longer use it due to the volume of callers. In addition, some people using that number have been connected to the Urology Department by accident. "Faculty and student response has been fantastic, but people must be patient and continue to work through the venues we are providing," McCoullum said. "We already have in place institutional resources to provide prevention and educational outreach to everyone." The VPUL office will hold group meetings and counseling services. In addition, Assistant VPUL Barbara Cassel is handling immediate issues involving shooting victim Patrick Leroy, a College senior. She plans to reach further into the University community throughout the week. "Random violence is really hard to control," Cassel said. "On the other hand, we have to be vigilant and support all of the initiatives around safety." Counselling and Psychological Services will conduct a discussion concerning the recent violence and crime at 2 p.m. today on the second floor of the Mellon Bank building at 36th and Walnut streets. CAPS Director Ilene Rosenstein said students will handle the recent trauma differently, but added that a wide range of reactions is normal. She said keeping lines of communication open is the most important factor in handling violence. The Reach-A-Peer helpline is also available for students to talk every day from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. at 573-2RAP.
(09/26/96 9:00am)
Penn sophomore wins gold medalPenn sophomore wins gold medalrunning third leg of 4x400 relay atPenn sophomore wins gold medalrunning third leg of 4x400 relay atWorld Junior Championships For a 10-day period, Penn sophomore Robin Martin not only saw the future, he lived it. While being housed in the Olympic Village in Sydney, Australia, Martin signed hundreds of autographs, visited kangaroos, had four massueses at his disposal and was constantly followed by bodyguards -- all in a day in the life of an Olympic athlete at the 2000 Olympic Games. But wait. The Atlanta Games have been closed only a few weeks, and Martin isn't even an Olympic athlete. He just posed as one. "I have now seen the future of track and know what I have to do to be there," Martin said. "It was the experience of a lifetime." At the end of June, Martin finished second in the 800-meter final at the Junior National Championship, running a personal-best time of 1 minute, 49.61 seconds. In doing so, Martin secured a spot on the U.S. Junior World Track and Field Team that competed in Sydney at the end of August in the World Junior Championships. The events were held in the venues that will host the 200 Olympic Games. Historically, approximately 75 percent of the World Junior Championship team goes on to compete in the Olympics. Martin did not only gain experience in Sydney, he left with a gold medal around his neck. He ran the third leg of the U.S. 4x400 relay team, helping the Americans to a gold medal with at time of 3:13 -- one second off the World Junior record. His individual split was clocked at 46.4 seconds. Martin also competed in the individual 800 meters, although he did not advance to the finals. "The highlight of my experience was running the victory lap, holding the American flag, with my teammates," Martin said. "I have never felt more satisfied." Athletes from 180 countries participated in the championship. "Sydney is going to be the perfect place for the next Olympics," Martin said. "It was especially exciting for me because the people of Sydney are really into track and field. I couldn't count the number of autographs I gave even if I wanted to." The star treatment extended beyond the track, as well. Martin was given tours of the city on a ferry so his legs would not tire. "I had to buy a new suitcase before leaving Australia because of all the free stuff I received," Martin said. "Now I have too many shirts, jackets, keychains and other stuff." But Martin's sporty new wardrobe was not easily obtained -- he has been training since he was three years old. While in high school, Martin competed in cross country and track and field but decided to concentrate his energy in track during his college years. Martin was a 1996 Outdoor Heptagonal Champion in the 800 and a second-team all-Ivy honoree in the 800 for the indoor season. At the Indoor IC4A Championships, Martin was part of the fifth-place 4x400 relay team that recorded the third-best time in Penn history (3:14.65). He also came in third in the 500-meter run, with a time of 1:03.78, placing him third on the Quakers' all-time list. At the Outdoor IC4As, Martinwas the anchor on the school record-setting mile relay (3:08.37), recording a split time of 46.1 seconds, while the team placed fifth. Martin also competed in his first Penn Relays this past spring, where he was a part of the 4x800 relay team and the distance medley team. The distance medley relay recorded a time of 9:53, ninth best in the history of the Relays. Martin was also voted Penn's "outstanding freshman" by his peers. Martin's long-term goal is to return to Sydney in four years for the 2000 Olympics, but he has several college-orientated goals to keep him busy in the meanwhile. Foremost, he wants to win a Hepatagonal team championship and qualify for nationals. "I plan to be at Sydney again, but I don't need to think about that constantly -- it can just be in the back of my mind," Martin said. "My coach, Charlie Powell, understands the situation and will do everything in his power to help me on my way."
(09/24/96 9:00am)
Three of four recent incidentsThree of four recent incidentsinvolved weapons; number ofThree of four recent incidentsinvolved weapons; number ofrobbery victims climbs to 20 Despite last week's arrests of three armed robbery suspects, four more students were robbed -- two of them at gunpoint -- in three different incidents Sunday night and early Monday morning. One perpetrator stole $400 from a University student. In a separate fourth incident, a 7-11 employee was also the victim of an armed robbery. The only robbery that may not have involved a weapon occurred Sunday night, when two assailants approached two Penn students, forced them to the ground and simulated wielding a weapon. The four recent incidents raise the total number of robberies in the campus area during the last 18 days to 14 and the number of robbery victims to at least 20 in the same period. Last Wednesday, University Police arrested three men who they believe are responsible for many of the recent armed robberies near campus. Investigators predict they will arrest those involved in other incidents by the middle of this week. "Last week's arrests really cut into the problem, but one, two or even three men did not commit all of these crimes," University Police Captain John Richardson said. "Apparently, we have a few more bad characters out there who are preying on our community and we have some more weeding out to do." According to Richardson, combating the increase in robberies is a top priority for the University's police force. He said the University has commissioned "the full complement of police officers, investigators and detectives" to deal with the incidents. Richardson said he is now limiting the amount of benefit time off awarded to the force, a move he thinks will make the officers better prepared to handle emergencies on weekends and nights, when the force is usually at its weakest level. "The increased force is going to get the word out to people who are intent on coming into campus and committing these crimes -- it is not going to happen anymore," Richardson said. "Some criminals will be caught and prosecuted, then the rest will go someplace else." Richardson noted that a majority of the robbery victims have been men. Though unsure of the reasoning behind that trend, Richardson said the "trend is good -- women are not becoming victims of prey, which means other horrible things aren't happening." "If I had to choose between my daughter and son being robbed, I would choose my son," Richardson added. "I think he would be able to handle it better because he wouldn't do anything dumb, like scream." The four most recent incidents all involved men, according to Richardson. At 9:35 p.m. Sunday, two male University students were approached from behind by two 17 to 21-year-olds and forced to the ground at St. Marks and Spruce streets. The pair of assailants pretended they had a weapon and stole a student's jacket, pager and wallet, containing $5, credit cards, a PennCard and a New York driver's license. "The criminals could have had a gun or could have simply been putting their hands in their pockets," Richardson said. "We just don't know." Just an hour later, at 10:38 p.m. Sunday, one male University student was robbed at gunpoint on the 4000 block of Pine Street by two six-foot tall men. The perpetrators took a wallet containing $20 dollars, an ATM card, credit cards and a PennCard. Another armed robbery occurred early Monday morning at 3:40 a.m. on the 3700 block of Walnut Street. A male University student was robbed by a six-foot-tall man. The assailant took $400 dollars, a belt, a shirt and the student's PennCard. At about the same time Monday morning, a 7-11 employee was robbed with a knife at the store on 4201 Walnut Street. The employee had his gold chain stolen, but it was returned in a few hours after the perpetrator was apprehended by University Police. "One fortunate thing is that there were no injuries reported in any of these incidents," Richardson said. Richardson is urging all students to use caution and remember basic safety laws. He advised the University community to avoid walking alone at night, to be aware of their surroundings, to use Penn Escort or bus services and to carry small amounts of money. "Students at Penn should always be aware of their surroundings," Richardson said. "Not just right now, even though it is a little more crucial."
