LANCASTER POST, May 30, asks "One law for the rich and connected, another law for the rest of us?" The article goes on to reveal a burglary that took place when, in the middle of the night, celebrating F & M college students discovered a door left open at the Iron Hill Brewery and helped themselves to several bottles of liquor. As a side bar to the article, the Post reveals a letter from John Fry, President of F & M, "threatening legal action if Post News Editor, Ron Harper, Jr. stepped on F & M property."
WATCHDOG: Although in covering the story NewsLanc would have omitted the names of the students, the issue is legitimate as to whether the same relatively light punishment and opportunity to have their record expunged would have been offered to other young people under similar circumstances.
NewsLanc is not privy to what so offended Fry, but wonders if he overreacted. It is natural for him to want to protect students from potentially career altering consequences for a thoughtless college prank. But a free press also serves an important role in furthering democracy.
Perhaps even more culpable and subject to revocation of their liquor license is the Iron Hill Brewery. The Liquor Control Board would not take lightly a licensed outlet leaving a door open over night, especially one located under a college dormitory.
And also of interest, what was Fry thinking when he approved the location of a brewery restaurant on the ground floor of a college upper division housing unit?
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Saturday, May 24, 2008
NEW ERA
NEW ERA, May 24, published a letter stating "...we learned that the (Lancaster) school district had approved a lucrative contract with the new school superintendent that includes $800,000 in wages..."
WATCHDOG: We admire the Lancaster Newspapers' willingness to include letters representing a wide variety of opinions, but the New Era editor errs by not at least adding a foot note to explain that the $800,000 is over a five year period. That amounts to $160,000 annually.
The New Era owes its readers and the School District of Lancaster an apology and a clarification in Monday's "Letters to the Editor" section.
WATCHDOG: We admire the Lancaster Newspapers' willingness to include letters representing a wide variety of opinions, but the New Era editor errs by not at least adding a foot note to explain that the $800,000 is over a five year period. That amounts to $160,000 annually.
The New Era owes its readers and the School District of Lancaster an apology and a clarification in Monday's "Letters to the Editor" section.
Friday, May 23, 2008
KUDOS
WATCHDOG: Kudos to the editors of The Lancaster Post for their May 23rd edition. It is an example of constructive, responsible journalism. May this set a precedent for future editions.
The Post can be read in its entirety at www.LancasterPost.com. Once one gets the hang of how the web site works, it is as easy to read all the pages as if the tabloid were sitting in one's lap.
The Post is also available for free at Turkey Hills and other retail outlets throughout the county.
The Post can be read in its entirety at www.LancasterPost.com. Once one gets the hang of how the web site works, it is as easy to read all the pages as if the tabloid were sitting in one's lap.
The Post is also available for free at Turkey Hills and other retail outlets throughout the county.
Intelligencer Journal
The May 23rd editorial "Second Chances" asks "...where should society house former sex offenders who have served their time in jail?"
After carefully tip toeing down both sides of the issue of where former sex offenders should be housed, the Intell concludes: "The first order of business must be to protect our children. But there also is a need for a rational dialogue on this matter by residents, organizations and state and municipal officials. To do anything less makes those just released from prison victims of their past and heightens the odds of recidivism."
WATCHDOG: The Intell deserves credit for their responsible reflections on the complex and emotion fraught matter. And we agree that protecting our children does take priority and indeed is the first rule of nature.
So what are the most important things from which we must protect children?
Though not meaning to belittle the seriousness of involving children in premature sexual experiences, we believe far greater and lasting damages results from psychological abuse, assault, reckless driving, criminal neglect, and murder. We need to ask ourselves why we stress dangers that are neither fatal or, in most case, likely to have lasting results, over circumstances that are far more threatening? After objectivity gains control over emotions our emotions surrounding fear and sex, we will be ready to have that "rational dialogue."
After carefully tip toeing down both sides of the issue of where former sex offenders should be housed, the Intell concludes: "The first order of business must be to protect our children. But there also is a need for a rational dialogue on this matter by residents, organizations and state and municipal officials. To do anything less makes those just released from prison victims of their past and heightens the odds of recidivism."
WATCHDOG: The Intell deserves credit for their responsible reflections on the complex and emotion fraught matter. And we agree that protecting our children does take priority and indeed is the first rule of nature.
So what are the most important things from which we must protect children?
Though not meaning to belittle the seriousness of involving children in premature sexual experiences, we believe far greater and lasting damages results from psychological abuse, assault, reckless driving, criminal neglect, and murder. We need to ask ourselves why we stress dangers that are neither fatal or, in most case, likely to have lasting results, over circumstances that are far more threatening? After objectivity gains control over emotions our emotions surrounding fear and sex, we will be ready to have that "rational dialogue."
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
KUDOS
WATCHDOG: Kudos to the New Era for publishing on May 19th a lengthy letter by Rev. Jim Kalish entitled "Megan's Law has little or no impact on recidivism." After quoting from Human Rights Watch and other studies, Kalish concludes:
"Sexual assault is a horrific act, but the Megan Law is no solution. Rather, it is diverting us from finding real answers and it makes very poor use of existing limited resources.
"Efforts are under way here to adopt the Human Right Watch study to Lancaster County's situation, suggesting alternative policies and programs to reduce sexual crime and increase the reintegration of sexual offenders back into the community in such a way as they do no harm to themselves or to others."
"Sexual assault is a horrific act, but the Megan Law is no solution. Rather, it is diverting us from finding real answers and it makes very poor use of existing limited resources.
"Efforts are under way here to adopt the Human Right Watch study to Lancaster County's situation, suggesting alternative policies and programs to reduce sexual crime and increase the reintegration of sexual offenders back into the community in such a way as they do no harm to themselves or to others."
Monday, May 19, 2008
WHPTV 21 & Fox 43 Cover Conestoga Meeting With Live Shots
WATCHDOG: WHPTV 21 was at the Conestoga Fire Company on Monday, and provided a live shot on their 5:30 newscast. At the 10 PM newscast, Fox 43 broadcasted live, offering abbreviated but live coverage of the citizen's meeting.
It's good to see TV coverage of an event where citizens are getting involved and expressing their thoughts over what is happening in their community. Megan's Law stories always seem to catch the attention of the media, although some handle them more responsibly than others.
But we have to wonder why WGAL or ABC 27 didn't bother to have live coverage of this important discussion and clash of ideas. When over 300 people jam a community firehouse to express their fears or defend registered sex offenders living on Main Street, that's news.
It's good to see TV coverage of an event where citizens are getting involved and expressing their thoughts over what is happening in their community. Megan's Law stories always seem to catch the attention of the media, although some handle them more responsibly than others.
But we have to wonder why WGAL or ABC 27 didn't bother to have live coverage of this important discussion and clash of ideas. When over 300 people jam a community firehouse to express their fears or defend registered sex offenders living on Main Street, that's news.
Sunday, May 18, 2008
SUNDAY NEWS
The May 18 lead article is headed "A storm brews in Conestoga over three sex offenders living in the same building; a public meeting is called for Monday. It's the talk of this town."
WATCHDOG: The first impression was that, on a low news week, the Sunday News was going down the sordid trail of Ernie Schreiber's New Era, giving its readers a sense of superiority by exploiting wretches who had been in jail for sex crimes or, in some cases, some would say indiscretions, for which they had already paid a harsh penalty. (After all, the public lust to feel superior can no longer be indulged by attacks on African-Americans, Jews, Catholics, and even Gays!)
Instead the article was thoughtful and balanced in dealing with a legitimate public concern. Reporter Gil Smart and Editor Marv Adams's responsible handling of the subject is an implicit rebuff to the New Era. Unlike the evening paper, the Sunday News neither disclosed names or addresses nor provided photographs of the ex-convicts.
Former state representative Tom Armstrong, who represents Elam International which sponsors the "transitional home," is quoted as saying "There are over 2,000 people in state prisons who have served their time and are able to come home but can't come home, because they have no home ... they have a right to live somewhere, and in the right environment, can reclaim their lives."
Armstrong assured that the inhabitants had been carefully screened to minimize any danger.
There also was a warning that might apply to Schreiber. The Megan's Law web site states "Any person who uses the information contained herein to threaten, intimidate, or harass the registrant or their family, or who otherwise misuses this information, may be subject to criminal prosecution or civil liability."
Hmm. If Schreiber were charged and convicted, would he have committed a sex crime? In that case, WATCHDOG may not want him living in its neighborhood!
WATCHDOG: The first impression was that, on a low news week, the Sunday News was going down the sordid trail of Ernie Schreiber's New Era, giving its readers a sense of superiority by exploiting wretches who had been in jail for sex crimes or, in some cases, some would say indiscretions, for which they had already paid a harsh penalty. (After all, the public lust to feel superior can no longer be indulged by attacks on African-Americans, Jews, Catholics, and even Gays!)
Instead the article was thoughtful and balanced in dealing with a legitimate public concern. Reporter Gil Smart and Editor Marv Adams's responsible handling of the subject is an implicit rebuff to the New Era. Unlike the evening paper, the Sunday News neither disclosed names or addresses nor provided photographs of the ex-convicts.
Former state representative Tom Armstrong, who represents Elam International which sponsors the "transitional home," is quoted as saying "There are over 2,000 people in state prisons who have served their time and are able to come home but can't come home, because they have no home ... they have a right to live somewhere, and in the right environment, can reclaim their lives."
Armstrong assured that the inhabitants had been carefully screened to minimize any danger.
There also was a warning that might apply to Schreiber. The Megan's Law web site states "Any person who uses the information contained herein to threaten, intimidate, or harass the registrant or their family, or who otherwise misuses this information, may be subject to criminal prosecution or civil liability."
Hmm. If Schreiber were charged and convicted, would he have committed a sex crime? In that case, WATCHDOG may not want him living in its neighborhood!
Friday, May 16, 2008
LANCASTER POST, May 16
The tabloid cover states: "Greetings from the Hamilton Club...women and minorities need not apply..."
WATCHDOG: The Hamilton Club has been integrated for decades, so the cover is misleading and unfair. Furthermore, it is not surprising that key supporters of the Convention Center Project would also be members of a Club largely serving professionals, the rich and top executives.
Many prominent persons have not been solicited as members or have chosen not to join. There is no scarcity of restaurants in downtown Lancaster where one can enjoy a pleasant meal with friends.
What doesn't Ron Harper, Jr. understand about the word "private"?
WATCHDOG: The Hamilton Club has been integrated for decades, so the cover is misleading and unfair. Furthermore, it is not surprising that key supporters of the Convention Center Project would also be members of a Club largely serving professionals, the rich and top executives.
Many prominent persons have not been solicited as members or have chosen not to join. There is no scarcity of restaurants in downtown Lancaster where one can enjoy a pleasant meal with friends.
What doesn't Ron Harper, Jr. understand about the word "private"?
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Asleep
WATCHDOG was asleep:
We were so enthusiastic about the introduction of the weekly Lancaster Post that the Watchdog failed to criticize the tabloid's April 25th front page political cartoon entitled "Double Crossings" that portrays all five Manheim Township commissioners as puppets for Dale High.
A recent Letter refers to the cartoon as " ...not accurate and did a disservice to the two commissioners that voted to NOT move this project forward."
The Watchdog apologizes for ignoring the injustice and promises to henceforth review the Post with the same critical eye as it does the Post's three local competitors.
We were so enthusiastic about the introduction of the weekly Lancaster Post that the Watchdog failed to criticize the tabloid's April 25th front page political cartoon entitled "Double Crossings" that portrays all five Manheim Township commissioners as puppets for Dale High.
A recent Letter refers to the cartoon as " ...not accurate and did a disservice to the two commissioners that voted to NOT move this project forward."
The Watchdog apologizes for ignoring the injustice and promises to henceforth review the Post with the same critical eye as it does the Post's three local competitors.
College Courses for High School Students
SUNDAY NEWS May 11 Special: "Don't make gifted students wait for college courses"
WATCHDOG: Kudos to retired teacher Dorothy Saunders for her "In My Opinion" rebuttal to the earlier opinion piece by Francis J. Bremer, Chair of the Millersville University History Department, objecting to the teaching of college courses in history to high performing high school students in their senior year.
We predict that any standardized test given to both MU freshman history students and to International Baccalaureate program seniors at J. P McCaskey on average would place McCaskey students on a par or ahead. Why? Because successful IB candidates qualify to attend the best schools in the country. MU has to draw its students from a much broader population.
Many youngsters lose interest in school and drop out or avoid college because they have been under challenged. The sooner gifted students move ahead, the more time they will have later for advanced classes, to independently pursue academic interests, and for part time employment.
A half century ago, the Ford Foundation sponsored brilliant students who would enter college early by skipping the junior and senior years of high school. The students could readily perform the academic work but were not as socially mature as their classmates. Providing college level courses at the high school level was found to be a better solution.
WATCHDOG: Kudos to retired teacher Dorothy Saunders for her "In My Opinion" rebuttal to the earlier opinion piece by Francis J. Bremer, Chair of the Millersville University History Department, objecting to the teaching of college courses in history to high performing high school students in their senior year.
We predict that any standardized test given to both MU freshman history students and to International Baccalaureate program seniors at J. P McCaskey on average would place McCaskey students on a par or ahead. Why? Because successful IB candidates qualify to attend the best schools in the country. MU has to draw its students from a much broader population.
Many youngsters lose interest in school and drop out or avoid college because they have been under challenged. The sooner gifted students move ahead, the more time they will have later for advanced classes, to independently pursue academic interests, and for part time employment.
A half century ago, the Ford Foundation sponsored brilliant students who would enter college early by skipping the junior and senior years of high school. The students could readily perform the academic work but were not as socially mature as their classmates. Providing college level courses at the high school level was found to be a better solution.
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
NEW ERA, May 5
Comparing the performance of the current commissioners with their predecessors, the reporter said "That's a marked change from the squabbles and controversies that frequently bogged down the previous board, consisting of Dick Shellenberger, Molly Henderson, and Pete Shaub."
WATCHDOG: "Squabbles?"?? That is how they refer to the debate about the future of Lancaster City, the potential risk and waste of over $16O million, and the propaganda by the then-monopoly newspapers to enrich its owner and its joint venture partner the High Group??
If that is a "squabble" then a "squabble" is what took place at the Constitutional Convention, and the earlier confrontation with King George was a "big squabble."
WATCHDOG: "Squabbles?"?? That is how they refer to the debate about the future of Lancaster City, the potential risk and waste of over $16O million, and the propaganda by the then-monopoly newspapers to enrich its owner and its joint venture partner the High Group??
If that is a "squabble" then a "squabble" is what took place at the Constitutional Convention, and the earlier confrontation with King George was a "big squabble."
Sunday, May 4, 2008
WHY WE RUSH
WATCHDOG: Why do we rush through Marv Adams's Sunday News column ramblings to get to what his daughter had to say? Marv should double her allowance and give us more of Abigail's piercing tongue.
SUNDAY NEWS
The editorial "Fold 'em; We won't put our money on legislation to raise the stakes for small games of chance. Instead it's time to draw the line on gambling" expresses the noble sentiments of the editors.
WATCHDOG: A few years down the road when the convention center and hotel are tanking, word will come down from the Executive Floor to support a casino to rescue the project. At that time we will only have 'Artie See's' on-line messages and hopefully the Lancaster Post and NewsLanc to remind us of the editorial and what the staff of the Sunday News really thinks. Lancaster has good journalists but bad publishers.
WATCHDOG: A few years down the road when the convention center and hotel are tanking, word will come down from the Executive Floor to support a casino to rescue the project. At that time we will only have 'Artie See's' on-line messages and hopefully the Lancaster Post and NewsLanc to remind us of the editorial and what the staff of the Sunday News really thinks. Lancaster has good journalists but bad publishers.
Friday, May 2, 2008
INTELLIGENCER JOURNAL
Jeff Hawkes's May 1 column, "Recidivism: The point of no return" makes good points concerning the need to reduce prison population and curtail costs without compromising public safety. He quotes Rep. Katie True, who has come a long way over the years in drug policy and harm reduction sophistication, as saying "When you hear from (Beard) that 70 percent of the people in our prison population are there because of substance abuse, you have to try something different."
WATCHDOG: Instead of endorsing half-hearted incremental steps of allowing parole after serving 75% of a prison sentence in return for certain efforts, we should regulate and control marijuana as we do the two far more dangerous drugs: alcohol and nicotine. Not only would this keep otherwise law abiding citizens from arrests and sometimes incarceration, thus reducing prison costs, it would provide far more tax revenue than legalize gambling and cut the legs out from under the most profitable industry in the county: drug trafficking!
WATCHDOG: Instead of endorsing half-hearted incremental steps of allowing parole after serving 75% of a prison sentence in return for certain efforts, we should regulate and control marijuana as we do the two far more dangerous drugs: alcohol and nicotine. Not only would this keep otherwise law abiding citizens from arrests and sometimes incarceration, thus reducing prison costs, it would provide far more tax revenue than legalize gambling and cut the legs out from under the most profitable industry in the county: drug trafficking!
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