Letters to the Editor

A thank-you from Gary

We appreciate the support you gave our basketball team for the Duke game. You did it with class in a nationally televised setting, which brings a great deal of attention to our school in a positive manner.

Comcast Center was as loud as it has ever been. It definitely had an effect on the game, especially in the first half.

Our team is looking forward to the same enthusiasm for the three remaining home games.

GO TERPS!

Gary Williams Men's basketball coach

University Senate accepting dynamic nature of security policy

There are dozens of factors contributing to the competitive advantage the university has over other prestigious public research universities, including - just to name a few - top-notch academics and facilities, a highly competitive sports program, a diverse student population and easy access to our nation's capitol. The burgeoning redevelopment of both the campus and the off-campus areas will quickly expand and solidify the university's competitive advantage among its peers.

A heightened perception and reality of crime, however, could have disastrous impacts on all the university's positive attributes, in addition to hindering the redevelopment process.

As highlighted in Nathan Cohen's Feb. 12 article in The Diamondback, "University Senate to hold crime forum," the University Senate is in the process of soliciting input from students, faculty, staff and law enforcement relative to preparing a report about campus security, with the ultimate goal of impacting security policy at the university.

As the future of our university hinges on the perception and reality of crime, an undeniably powerful concept, it would behoove the senate to cement the "security task force" into its foundation. It is inexplicable as to why the task force had been disbanded multiple times throughout the years, especially during 2003, a time in which the university and city alike grappled with a spike in violent crime.

I applaud the senate for employing a holistic approach and opening up a dialogue between the students, administration and law enforcement. The challenges are tremendous and inextricably linked to the future prosperity of our community.

Accordingly, the security task force must become a permanent fixture within the senate, convening with stakeholders regularly, lobbying the administration, and accenting that security policy is constantly evolving.

Justin Auciello Alumnus Government and politics

Factual clarifications from Washington Adventist

I would like to point out inaccuracies in your Feb. 8 article "Area emergency care could become scant" and your accompanying editorial "Grim Prognosis."

First, Washington Adventist Hospital is not moving to Montgomery County - we have already been there for 100 years.

Second, the region we serve, including the university, will always have access to our emergency services, regardless of any relocation plans.

This year, Washington Adventist Hospital celebrates 100 years of providing quality medical care to its patients. As we look to our next 100 years of service, we want to ensure through our Vision for Expanded Access that our programs, services and facilities meet the growing needs of all residents in our communities.

Thomas Grant Associate vice president, Communications Adventist HealthCare

Students show class

What an incredible game. Against Duke we proved two things:

- Our basketball team is ready to make a run.

- We are not classless thugs.

If we continue to bring that intensity to the rest of our home games, there isn't a team in the country that can stop us.

I have never been more proud to be a Terp. Keep up the good work, Gary!

Jeff Vitkun Junior Finance

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