The Shrinking Quad has received several comments recently that the we feel we need to respond to.
1) “The musket is better”.
This is personal opinion, but let us clarify the differences between TSQ and The Musket:
-We are an alternative source of news and reviews
-We are saving trees by having TSQ be an online blog
-We are taking perhaps a little less administrative-friendly angle in articles; because the blog is disassociated with the school, it gives us freedom to do so.
-We publish articles efficiently and quickly as possible, another strength of an online publication.
The Musket most definitely has its strengths and is a reputable school newspaper for a reason. TSQ is merely offering alternative way for students to access more news around campus. We do not seek to displace the Musket; this is not a competition, each publication has its own strengths and weaknesses.
2) “Isn’t this just like WTFYW magazine but less awesome???”
Similarly, the Shrinking Quad respects WTFYW. The magazine provides a creative outlet for students about anything through poetry, short stories, etc. The Shrinking Quad is more of a news source, as well as a commentary to life at school, with less of an emphasis on writing about personal emotions and experiences. Just as the Musket has its positive aspects, so does WTFYW. But we are us, the student body, TSQ.
3. “Wow. You clearly do not understand the LHS Senate, and you should do so before making some of these remarks. A few of my reactions: 1. “I don’t know about you, but it would be nice if more than 50 or so voices were taken into consideration in the passage of bills.” Ok.. If you would like to voice your opinion, then RUN for Senate! Do not expect the Senate to take the time and educate the entire school on certain issues. If you really care that much, and don’t trust your fellow classmates to vote for what is best for the school,then join. 2. “Apparently, we haven’t passed any bills since 2005.” This is false. In the 2007-2008 school year alone, the LHS Senate passed several bills. One of which gives underclassmen the opportunity for more studying time, by not needing to go to their study hall at the start of the block. 3. “Agreed. I thought we needed money too? Not to worry, LHS is probably suffering from a very prolonged case of amnesia.” Do not take out your frustration on LHS’ money issues on the Senate, as we really have no power on that. 4. I don’t know if you are aware..but X-Block was created by the Senate for the purpose of meeting during that time. Remember this next Wednesday morning when you get an extra hour of sleep. 5. Although you may laugh at past bills such as the Lavatory Bill and/or the Condom Availability Bill, all bills passed have the sole intention of improving life at LHS. The Senate has significantly improved Lexington High School over the last 20 years..and before you post an online blog going against everything Senate has worked fore, come check out a Senate meeting. You will be surprised to know how uninformed you really were when writing this article.”
We would like to clarify on this article: this was a humor piece, and as such, contained sarcasm. We appreciate all comments, but if you have a point to make, make it respectful. There is no need for ad hominem attacks.
We understand the options students have in getting their voices heard. They may speak to a Senator personally or visit during X-Block. However, the amount of students who know that they have these options available is small. Not to mention, many students feel that this is not an adequate way to get your voice heard because they feel uncomfortable visiting during X-Block, or striking up a conversation with a Senator in the hallway. Also, it was suggested that we RUN for senate in order to have a voice. Some people want a voice, but can’t or don’t want to run for Senate. We simply want a better outlet for our voices to be heard, or at least for more encouragement for us to use these already present outlets.
We are so very appreciative of X-Block.
We also understand that bills have been passed last year, however the Senate website is not accurate. We were bringing a tone of sarcasm to our article. The point was to emphasize that this information should and could be more readily available. The Senate has a website, and it is updated quite regularly, so we felt that this year’s agenda should be uploaded.
We believe we have valid criticisms of the current system, yet we think LHS Senate is doing a great job given the constraints it has faced in the recent years. However, something can always be done to make it better
While we certainly think having proper sanitary supplies in our restrooms is imperative as well as the option to get condoms in the nurses’ office, we were merely pointing out that our school does have legislation about these issues. We are aware that all bills passed are for the benefit of the student body. Perhaps you do not find humor in our article, but please understand that this was a humor piece, not necessarily a criticism of our Senate. Our Senate is valuable and TSQ is grateful for its presence.
4. “the secret service had to follow john kerry around everywhere too. you’ll notice that the presidents in the play were all white and were killed nonetheless. Assassins don’t discriminate, and we shouldn’t submit to their lunacy and change what high school plays get preformed because of your potential concerns.”
If you would like to comment, don’t patronize the writers. The “Review: Assasins” article never suggested that we “submit to [assassins'] lunacy and change high schools plays”. While John Kerry had secret service protecting him during his campaign, Barack Obama has already had assassination plots foiled. Please read this article from the Telegraph, for an example: White Supremacists \’plotted to assasinate Barack Obama in top hats and tails. The musical was an incredible production and left us thinking. We spoke to the director of the musical personally and discussed how in fact the very purpose of this musical was to leave the audience thinking. If you read the program that was handed out at the door to the show, the director’s note mentions this. In our article, we are merely pondering and reflecting. We don’t necessarily believe assassins discriminate, but we also don’t think that race doesn’t play a role in the foiled assassination attempts on President-elect, Barack Obama.
The Shrinking Quad hopes this clarifies things for those discouraged by our articles. We’re glad this blog is generating dialogue between students and we encourage you to continue to post comments. However, we have one policy: no ad hominem attacks. We appreciate all comments received but we also want to remind you to be respectful to the writers and to other students. If you have ideas for articles, or want to write an article, send us a message whether through honesty box or in a Facebook message. Thanks!
