Tangents and Tirades

Breaking Biden.

Last week, Sen. Joseph Biden of Delaware announced that he would be seeking the 2008 Democratic Presidential nomination. Prior to that announcement, however, Biden told The New York Observer his thoughts about Sen. Barak Obama, another Democratic presidential hopeful. Biden said, "I mean, you got the first mainstream African-American who is articulate and bright and clean and a nice-looking guy…" Shockingly, Biden's comment has not received as harsh a response as I would have anticipated by the mainstream media. The logic seems to be that because Biden is a Democrat he is permitted to make derogatory comments about African-Americans. Republicans like Trent Lott, however, who several years ago complimented a retiring Strom Thurmon, are held to task for their "racist" comments. As long as the Left has the media on its side, it's virtually immune from any form of criticism.

-Mark Scirocco '10

Pantless in Providence.

The weather channel said to expect 17 degree weather with 40 m.p.h. winds, bringing the temperature down to -10 degrees, so I bundled up: leggings under my jeans with ski socks over those, long-sleeved shirt, sweatshirt, Northface jacket, scarf, and mittens, all topped off with my hat to contain all that heat. I thought I was dressed appropriately, although I will admit, not very fashionably. To me, however, fashion comes after warmth. Apparently, this is not a concern of some. I walked into my theology class, the ball of warmth I was, and the first thing I saw was my fellow classmate in shorts. No, he had not just come from the gym. These were khaki shorts that I did not expect to lay eyes on again until April at least. I was surprised but I suppose those are his legs that they will be amputated after I get frostbite. I thought that would be the only absurdity I would see that day, but no. Fashion trumped warmth for one girl walking in the Smith Center direction. I understand that the European "long shirt and leggings" look is in right now, but for God's sake and mine, please wear more clothes. I am cold just looking at both of you with no pants on. If you refuse, could we possibly work out a plan so that I don't see either of you? We'll be in touch.

-Shannon Obey '08

Have you seen the chalk talk?

One percent . . . are you willing? Ever wondered what it meant? A small group of students were inspired by a homily given by Rev. John Paul Walker O.P. at the beginning of the school year. During his 10:30 p.m. Last Chance Mass homily, Father Walker challenged students to give one percent of their time, energy, or money to a cause that meant something to them. He crunched some numbers during this talk, showing listeners just how far one percent could go, if everyone participated. Garrett Owen '08 spearheaded the project. The cause is homelessness in Rhode Island. Can we as a community give our time, energy, and money to helping the less fortunate? If you would like to get involved, stay tuned for upcoming events around campus-or just contact Gowen08@providence.edu. Are you willing to give just one percent?

-Betsy Rouleau '08

Where have all the snowflakes gone?

In a nutshell, this winter has sucked. Whenever we get hit with snow, it has completely melted away within an hour, and I have not been able to skip class even once using the snow as an excuse. Even in Vermont during the two weeks I spent there during Christmas vacation there was not a single snowfall and I, instead, found myself hiking in 60-degree weather. Many people say that the lack of snow is due to global warming, but when you consider the obscene amount of snow that blanketed has Colorado throughout the past few months, it is hard to know what the heck is going on. I haven't even gotten to snowboard yet this season, and reminiscing about the snowday Providence College students got two years ago due to the three feet of snow makes this winter so much worse.

-Aiden Redmond '08