Page 6 Dave Takes it on the Chin Dear editor, I am writing in response to David Friend's article of February 22, 1989 titled "Erie glad to get rid of Dave." I was born in Erie. I have lived here for 22 of my 24 years of life on this planet. It was with great interest that I read David Friend's commentary on our area. Mr. Friend's hometown is Frederick, Maryland. Since I have visited Frederick and know first hand that it is, in fact, the focal point of entertainment, international travel, and power politics for the entire Eastern Seaboard, I was very curious to know what his impressions of Erie were. It is obvious, after reading his article, that he's had a really terrible time here, and that makes me feel bad. I will be the first to admit that Erie is not Washington D.C., Philadelphia, New York City or Pittsburgh. It does not pretend to be. The airport here is small. Our newspaper cannot compare to the New York Times, and the mall does leave many things to be desired. It is unfortunate, however, that Mr. Friend has been here for almost two years and has only experienced things he doesn't like. Apparently he has never watched a sunset at Presque Isle, enjoyed a Philarmonic concert, or even gone hiking in the Gorge. Easy to Be a Critic Dear editor, Everybody is a critic, I am no exception. All throughout life people judge and comment on many things, most of which they have a limited knowledge, understanding, or interest in. People are happy to tell what is wrong but seldom think to offer a better idea. If they happen to contemplate the subject of ridicule they fail to produce an alternative. They continue their mediocre life with the illusion they accomplished something simply by criticizing. WRONG! David Friend 'wrote a rather opinionated article last issue dealing with undesirable aspects of Erie. He voiced several areas he felt fell short of what such a worldly man should expect from a city. On the list of shortcomings were telecommunications, politics, the mall, and social recreation (drinking). I do not argue the fact of his validity, but more so his attitude toward the situation. This is a The Collegian invites letters to the editor. Letters should be dropped off in the Collegian by 5 pm on Friday prior to publication Letters to the Editor I am very surprised that h ,- ; like the people here so much, since we are actually pathetic enough to be living here in the first place. I wish Mr. Friend the best of times in State College, that mecca of civilization. The theatres there take 4 months instead of 2 to get "good first-run movies." The airport terminal would fit in your residence hall room, and there are plenty of trendy, over-priced stores to shop in. Centre County teams with political controversy, and you can keep up with it all by reading the Centre County Times. It is a newspaper famous for its relentless coverage of hotly debated local issues like whether or not teenagers should be allowed to cruise College Avenue. For hard core television news, tune in to WJAC- Johnstown, the station "serving • western Pennsylvania from high atop the Allegheny Mountains." If, for some reason, Mr. Friend gets bored, not to worry...metropolitan Bellefonte is only 10 minutes away. Also, people in State College don't drink, but, there are lots of cows to tip over if you need something to pass the time. Bon Voyage Mr. Friend!!!! Believe me, Erie is glad to get rid of you! Signed, Kate Lane prime example of "a critic". He points his finger, &len leaves. We receive criticism but no offer of a solution. He is happy just to say "... change some of your T.V. announcers, improve your papers, get some good politicians,...". It's fine to be able to say change, improve, get, but it would be impressive to be able to offer answers. That would be a sign of a real politician...do you know of any? I would like to argue his thoughts on what we do for fun. Erie offers numerous activities for types not overindulging in T.V. and drinking. Parties can be a great time but we do have a highly ranked Playhouse, our art scene is on the rise, nature parks surround us, and we enjoy sports in every season. The people in Erie are among the best, this I will agree with. Erie still leaves a bit to be desired, but it won't change simply because of a critic. We need more. Edward (Ezju) Kranz Pro-Choice Advocates Dear Editor: Efforts are currently underway to fill a bus with Pro-Choice advocates bound for the April 9th March for Women's Lives in -Washington D. C.. The march is intended to remind President Bush and the United States Congress that the majority of Americans continue to support a women's right to choose in the matter of continuing her pregnancy to full YOUR FIRST STEP TOWARD SUCCESS IS THE ONE YOU COULD TAKE THIS SUMMER. The Behrend Collegian's editorial opinion is determined by the editor, with the editor holding final responsibility. Opinions expressed in the Collegian are not necessarily those of the Behrend Collegian or the Pennsylvania State University. Letter Policy: The Behrend Collegian encourages letters on news coverage, editorial content and university affairs. Letters should be typewritten, double-spaced and signed by no more than two persons. Letters should be no longer than 400 words. Letters should include the semester and major of the writer. All letters should provide the address and phone number of the writer for verification of the letter. The Collegian reserves the right to edit letters for length and to reject letters if they arc libelous or do not conform to standards of good taste. Postal Information: The Behrend Collegian (898-6221) is published weekly by the students of the Behrend College; The Reed Union Building, Station Road, Eric, Pa 16563. The Collegian Wednesday, March 15 This legal right, established since 1973, is threatened now more than ever Anti-Choice voices are loud and their cause is well-financed. Though. they represent the minority of public opinion nation wide, they enjoy the sympathy and support of the White House. Those of you who believe that a woman's right to choose should be maintained must now take a Apply now for six weeks of Army ROTC leadership training. With pay, without obligation You'll develop the discipline, confidence, and decisiveness it takes to succeed in any career Ar:d you'll qualify to earn Army officer credentials r.ile you're completing your college studie. f.f,~~ i 4 tt')y THE SMARTEST COLLEGE COURSE YOU CAN TAKE. For more information contact Captain McCarthy at 898-6218 Editorial Policy .7727:4 ".111 S QI3SES3 more active role. We urge you to attend the march, or, if you cannot attend yourself, to sponsor a marcher by contributing the $3O needed for bus transportation. Anyone interested can call 734-5526 or 734-5467 for further information to make a reservation. Sincerely, Caroline Rhodes, President Edinboro Area NOW