| OCR Text |
Show Page 4 Signpost May 23, 1973 'Signpost' examines values of Weber State community by Bonnie Cantwell Editor The Signpost has received a lot of criticism during the past week about the use of an objectionable word in Stephen Calchera's column of the May 11 edition of the newspaper. One woman phoned the Signpost and said, "whoever allows Calchera's column to be printed is 'a rotter'." J.C. Penny's cancelled their advertising with the Signpost because of the column. Even President Bishop made an official complaint to the Publications Board. Apparently, the Signpost has offended its readership with what has been called obscenity, though just what is meant by that is unclear. Even the Supreme Court cannot agree on the term. Material is obscene if it is "replusive, abhorrant to morality or virtue." As editor when I read the column before it went into the newspaper, I was not offended by it. In fact, I was surprised to learn that it had repelled, infuriated or disgusted a good deal of the campus community.Because of the complaints, the editorial staff of the Signpost has re-examined the role of the newspaper, especially in relation to the ethics of the community. It is not our objective to print and distribute pornography. In comparison with many college newspapers, the Signpost is very conservative, despite the liberal reputation of the newspaper has on campus. The type of column which brought Weber State students shouting with clenched fists would have passed unnoticed at Colorado State University where the campus newspaper has printed a nude front page as well as "obscene phrases." This particular newspaper also received second place award for general excellence in Rocky Mountain Collegiate Press Association competition. But as the Signpost serves the Weber State College student, we must take into account the values of the community. Our intent is to print a responsible newspaper which carries a respected voice on campus and in the community. To those who were shocked that the Signpost should print questionable words, we regret that our newspaper appeared pornographic to you. We apologize to those whose moral ethics allowed them to read the whole column captivated and then complain about the obscene filth in the Signpost. The Signpost will remain directed at becoming a progressive newspaper in touch with the times and concerened with journalistic ethics. We will, however, be taking a closer look at "questionable" materials as it relates to the ethics of the community. This is not a promise that we will never again print a profane word on the pages of the newspaper. It is, however, a confirmation that we do take your complaints and suggestions into account. The reader's opinion and values do mater. Above all, we will work to insure our crediability with the campus community. Letters to the editor Obscenity, teachers, theatre get criticism, praise, from writers Calchera Returns Dear Editor, I have been informed that both President Bishop and the Publications Board were somewhat upset at my use of a certain word in my column. The word in question refers to a not so uncommon practice that is said to cause blindness and the growth of hair on the palms of one's hands.I did not use this word for its-shock value. As a matter of fact I'm just a little bewildered at the thought that anyone would be shocked by it. The word was used in a purely humorous vein, as it lends itself well to that sort of thing. Also, I should point out that this was not the first time I've used the word in "It's Your Nickel", nor am I the first person to use it in the Signpost. Now, as for the little ones who avidly read the Signpost that Daddy or Mommy brings home, well, if they know what the word means than no harm is done, and if they do n't know what it means I swear before the Stewart Tower that I won't tell them. And in the future I hope I won't be put in the position of having to quote the first amendment to people who should know better. Stephen M. Calchera Teacher Tribute Dear Editor: Many people feel that a teacher holds little prestige compared to a judge, a doctor, a lawyer, etc. But where would these professional people be if not for the teachers who taught them? A teacher is not someone who feels that he or she has achieved his or her goal in life because he or she bears the "Title" of teacher, a teacher is a person who is rewarded by the achievements of his or her "students". " Mrs. Mildred Miya, who teachers English at Weber State College, is one of the many teachers who feel this way. For through her I learned the true meaning of the title teacher. In many of her English classes she has students who speak English only as a second language and who often feel inferior to the English speaking students. Not only does she instill confidence in them and soul search their abilities; she also inspires her English speaking students to reach heights of creativity they never believed they could attain. There is no such word as can't to Mrs. Miya. If a student believes it can't be done, she lets him know that self expression is possible. If he is still unsure of himself, she shows him how to go about doing it. She never ceases to treat each student as an individual, capable of his own creativity. Mrs. Miya continuously probes the capabilities of her students and as each individual is able to stand on his own ; expressing himself to the fullest extent, Mrs. Miya is always there to rejoice with him, his achievements. This tribute goes to all teachers like Mrs. Miya, because I know that she does not stand alone in the quest for student achievement. But she is the person who opened my eyes to what the title of teacher really means. So, to Mrs. Miya and all teachers with equal standing: "I Pay Tribute to you, for without you many students would never know the heights they are capable of reaching . Yolanda Chapman Theatre Praise Dear Editor: Well, I have sinned, downright sinned. For two happy hours last week I didn't once think about the Watergate Scandal, the Near" East Crisis or even Galloping Inflation. I just forgot the present while watching the goings-on aboard "H.M.S. Pinafore." What fun, what excellent singing and what very good staging it was! I wish everyone in Ogden who enjoys this type of entertainment could have seen how well it was presented. Naturally, everyone has his favorites but the entire cast, the coaches and teachers and indeed all involved deserve hearty congratulations. How fortunate we are to have an opportunity to see such talent at the miniscule prices charged! To my mind the entire Theatre Arts Department deserves enthusiastic community support and I hope they will receive it. For me, I can only say "Thank you ! May you have many sisters and cousins and aunts." J. G. Olson, M.D. Published twice weekly by the Associated Students of Weber State College during fall, winter and spring quarters. Entered as second class mail at the Ogden Utah, Post Office. Mailing address. Weber State College, 3750 Harrison Blvd., Ogden, Utah 84403. The opinions expressed on the editorial page of the Signpost do not necessarily represent those of the studentbody or the administration. Bonnie Cantwell Editor-in-Chief Wil Grey Managing Editor Bill Sumner .... Business Manager Dave Midget News Editor Ira Hatch News Editor Debra Malan Features Editor Randy Hollis Sports Editor MikeDabling Photo Editor |
