CAPITAL TIMES, September 13, 1989 From the editor's desk... The books! That's what it is, the books! We all have so much studying to do that we don't have time to think about anything else. Yeah, that's the problem; we spend so much time thinking that we don't have time to think. What a crock! Many of us are full-time students, therefore we are full time thinkers. So who else should you expect to come up with solutions that are going to make the difference in this crazy world; you know, solve the hunger problem and the drug problem and the environmental problem and all the other problems? Who else? Us! The full-time thinkers. Sounds very idealistic, doesn't it? But let us not forget that a couple of decades ago, college students in America were a major factor in shaping national opinion about the Vietnam War. Or that a few months ago, college students in China became a major factor in shaping world opinion about the leaders of their government. Yes, as idealistic as it may sound, college students have made a difference throughout history and all over the world. And perhaps we can make a difference - if we can take a break from thinking, to take time to think, and act! George Bush's plan for a "kinder, gentler nation has some economic realities it has to deal with. Bush's plan to tackle the drug problem in the U.S. has to answer one problem: To put it simply; where is the money going to come from? According to pollster Lou Harris, the only program the American people are willing to see sacrificed is defense. Let's face it, though, George's track record tells us he would rather see all social programs abolished before he takes a nickel from the defense budget. The question becomes: How does he fund his drug program? Could it be by raising taxes'? Harris said the American people would be willing for a small increase in taxes for an effective drug program. But they don't trust that the money will be spent honestly. This sets up Bush with an interesting dilemma. Does he cut into social programs and alienate the American people? Does he break down and cut defense? Will he decide to raise taxes? There is always the possibility the Bush drug program could go doWn as an empty promise and be scrapped. There is also an Outside possibility the president's public relations staff could get him out of another tough spot. (Look what they did when he chose Dan Quayle als a running mate.) When this situation plays itself out, I believe that unless George pulls a rabbit out of his hat, his "kinder, gentler nation" is going to be filled with frustrated, disillusioned people. A ewspaper for the student body apttal Times.,.. Editor in chief ... Nathan Lee Gadsden News Editor ... John Garvey Photography/Graphics Editor ... Denina C. Benson Sports Editor ... Hank Rappold /Production Manager ... John Yagecic Buskiess/Advertising Manager ... Sondra Kinsey Adviser ... Dr. Peter Parisi Staff—Amy Blinn, David Blimire, Jenny Cahill, Scott Demko, Jon Fleck, Karen Peiffer, Derrick Stokes, Melissa Stuff, Mary Jane Thompson. The Capital Times is pusblished by the students of Penn State Harrisburg. Concerns regarding the content of any issue should be directed to the editor in room W. 337 of the Olmsted building or by calling 944.4970. Opinions expressed are those of the author and are not representative of the college administration, faculty or student body. The Capital Times welcomes signed letters from readers Unslgned letters cannot be printed; however, a writer's name may be withheld upon request. The Capital Times does not endorse its advertisers. OPINIONS Nathan Lee Gadsden Editor in Chief John Garvey News Editor A TENI or ICI Letters to the editor... Editor's note: We at the Capital Times are as shocked as you are to find that there are no 'Letters to the Editor' in this issue. We seriously considered putting something else in this space, however, we realized that such a move would not be fair to our readers. This space is reserved for our readers who wish to respond to articles, disagree or agree with our editorials, or just say what is on your minds. Such is one of the functions of any newspaper. We sincerely hope that you will begin to use this column to express yourselves because freedom of the press is not just for journalists. Besides, we do not want to have to run these stupid question marks in the next issue. ex NTS ,cr
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