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December 15, 2009
Nikki Bowser
President Barack Obama never fails to disappoint me. I have continually been shocked by extravagant, short-term promises, most of which have yet to be fulfilled, and I cannot help but consider him to be a hypocritical liar.
He promised to decrease the unemployment rate and help small businesses, and last time I checked that number was up and most small businesses can’t buy a loan. He built his campaign on lies and empty promises and guess what America– you fell for it.
Another promise I have yet to see President Obama come through on was his commitment to closing Guantanamo Bay within one year of being sworn into office. All I have to say is thank God. At the moment I cannot think of a worse idea (with the exception of Obama’s Proposed Healthcare Reform, but don’t get me started).
Obama has entertained plans to close Guantanamo and bring the high-risk terrorists currently detained there to a high-security prison in Chicago. Along with these plans, he intends to try the 9/11 terrorists in downtown Manhattan as U.S. citizens in a trial before a jury.
This is appalling. First of all, these terrorists are not U.S. citizens and do not deserve to be treated as such. Obama giving them the right to a trial by jury and the right to a defense lawyer says to me that he believes that there is a possibility that these terrorists could be innocent. I am repulsed by his apparent defense of these terrorists. In fact, I find it offensive.
There is no doubt in my mind that these terrorists are guilty. They committed blatant acts of war against the United States of America, and now the president of these United States is inviting them back into our country and offering them a chance to defend themselves.
My only hope is that the jury selected for this undeserved trial is as harsh as Khalid Sheikh Mohammed and the other disgusting terrorists deserve for them to be. Mohammed and the others are being given the opportunity to describe the torture they were subjected to at Guantanamo, including being waterboarded 183 times in one month in a successful attempt to drive a confession out of the terrorists.
I cannot fathom the fact that any sane, rational American would be willing to defend Mohammed and what he did to our country. Waterboard torture is about as miniscule as it gets in comparison to flying a Boeing 767 into a 110-story building full of thousands of innocent people. While I’m being honest, it is my humble opinion that Mohammed deserved to be waterboarded 2,750 times– once for every innocent life he stole.
These terrorists are not Americans. They do not deserve to be treated as such or to be granted a trial that was, until now, reserved for U.S. citizens. These men should be kept in Guantanamo Bay for the rest of their lives. They do not deserve the luxury of death; Mohammed does not deserve the “martyr” status for which he yearns.
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December 15th, 2009 at 3:58 pm
Dear Whomever It May Concern,
I must say this article has no facts to back up its repulsive arguments against our President. President Obama did say a year ago that he would decrease the unemployment rate as well as help small businesses, and last time I checked the U.S. Labor Department reported a bright spot in the economy on Friday December 4, 2009 a drop in the nation’s unemployment rate. The rate fell to ten percent, from 10.2 percent in October. These things take time. Let us remember who developed this mess for President Barack Obama to clean up President George W. Bush. This took a decade to get into to, do you simply believe that were honestly going to get out of this mess in one simple year, I don’t think so. As for the small business the President on Monday spoke with the Fat-Cat bankers who got us into this mess and tried to enforce on them to lend to more small businesses. The fact of the matter is that when the TARP funds were distributed to the banks last year by THE BUSH ADMINISTRATION there were no regulations put on where that money would be sent so now these banks are trying to give it back and go back to there old habits. President Obama is doing the best he can with the circumstances given to him. Congress is sending new banking regulations through right now as I write this, he’s tackling healthcare w/o a PUBLIC OPTION(this should make the writer happy), and trying to pass Climate change legislation. This is his first year and I have yet to hear anything from the Republicans about any of these topics. As for Guantanamo Bay, He did close it and it is now in the process of being closed. Although I agree these terrorists don’t deserve any special treatment but they deserve a trial, this is a FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLE of our country, why abandon it now? If we can’t trust our prison system in our country to hold terrorist why should we trust it to hold our murders and robbers? These evil people deserve exactly what they did to those innocent Americans and they will for surely get that on Judgement Day. Our President is doing his best and instead of blocking everything he does or invisions we should give it a try and go for it! Such as his plan to create high speed railroad throughout our country is this a bad idea because it costs to much, I think not because it invests in our future, and I believe that is what President Obama is presently trying to do. I don’t mean to sound mean it’s just my opinion, I just like to see facts when people argue something as bad or good and unfortunately I feel I didn’t see this in this article.
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December 15th, 2009 at 8:44 pm
Wow, just wow…
To read this coming from my alma mater makes me feel ashamed I am associated with such a school. Ignoring any personal quips with policy I have, that the advisor printed such a hateful piece of journalism is beyond my comprehension. I think I will be writing a response to the paper directly later to show my disgust.
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Brian Gibbons Reply:
December 17th, 2009 at 10:56 pm
It is called an editorial because the editor of a newspaper can speak their mind and voice their opinion without being associated with the newspaper itself or according to Merriam-Webster, “a newspaper or magazine article that gives the opinions of the editors or publishers”. You sir need took read a newspaper more often. This article is not associated with the school itself, just as an editorial in any newspaper does not reflect the views of the corporation that owns a newspaper. I would like to think at Hoban we are taught to speak out and voice our opinion. Nikki has been taught she has the right to voice her opinion, just as you obviously know you have the right to disagree with her.
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James Moffitt Reply:
December 18th, 2009 at 12:53 pm
I want to make an addition and an apology to this original comment. I see now how offensive and angry it originally came out as and I did not mean as such. I was in the middle of writing my final paper for the semester, and hadn’t slept in about a day. So, when I was shown this it triggered me pretty quickly, and my internal filters did not work so well.
I ask anyone reading these comments for the real reason of a logical debate to look at my other comments and try to ignore this one.
Thank you,
James Moffitt ’07
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December 15th, 2009 at 10:34 pm
You, miss, are sickeningly unAmerican. You write about Obama’s faults and failures. You speak of unfulfilled promises and the economy. You seem, however, to have little or no knowledge of the founding principles of the United States of America. I hold this truth to be self-evident, and I am distressed that you seem to not hold it the same: That all men are created equally. Your argument for disregarding the basic tenets on which our forefathers founded this fine country is offensive at best. You should be ashamed of yourself.
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Free Speech Reply:
December 17th, 2009 at 8:35 pm
What do the founding principles of the United States of America, or the statement that all men are created equal have to do with this girls feelings about how President Obama is performing his job?
I thought that as Americans we were all entitled to our opinion and if I am not mistaken she has the right to free speech!
Weather we agree or not
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Anonymous Reply:
December 18th, 2009 at 1:54 am
While all men might be created equally, what they do in life is what sets them apart. Islamic radicals, who fly planes into the Twin Towers and rob thousands of people’s lives and destroying those people’s families, are no longer on equal footing with the rest of us.
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James Moffitt Reply:
January 2nd, 2010 at 2:14 pm
Sorry, this was a reply to another comment that got moved up somehow.
My actual reply to this is those who support torture and believe it is a legitimate way to gather evidence or is just revenge are no longer on equal footing with teh rest of us and deserve whatever they get. (Realize I do not actually believe this because it would be in direct opposition to everything I have argued for.)
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December 16th, 2009 at 2:36 pm
I commend you, Nikki, on your fine piece regarding President Obama’s policies. Not only does your opinion mirror the general public’s (latest Rasumussen daily Presidential poll is at -12 Approval Index, the lowest of any president at this time in his administration, but you also served to educate the student body with facts (anyone can google your assertions to prove they are true).
Our country is in dire danger due to Justice Department decisions to try these terrorists in Manhattan, as it could become a target for other suicide bombers to enact the wish of KSM, to die for his cause. NYC is operating in deficits, and the costs of enhanced security will hit the city with heavy costs, not to mention the emotional pain New Yorkers will have to endure re-living the nightmare of 9/11. This seems a lot to ask of the American people.
The fact that KSM’s original confessions can be thrown out due to the waterboarding is abhorrent. This likely will be a circus trial where the terrorists will try to do more damage to our country through our justice system.
They should be tried in a military tribunal as they ARE NOT United States citizens, and the American people will never believe they have the same rights.
Another of the other very dangerous policies is the fact that Obama has tripled Bush’s deficit in 9 months; we are currenly 12 Trillion dollars in debt. We must pay a billion dollars in interest a week on this debt.
Meanwhile, his administration continues to spend on things like Health Care and Cap & Trade, and Spending (with Earmarks, which Obama promised he would eliminate). These policies further shred our Constitution, and according to the polls the American people do not want them.
As well, this debt burden weakens our defenses. If we get hit with another attack or have any type of disaster, or emergency where will the funds come from? Too many people in the world hate us (jealous of our freedoms), and would love to see us fail.
As well, this debt can not be paid off by the current generation, something our Founding Fathers were strongly against. The only way out of this debt, so that it is not left for your and your children’s generation is with massive inflation, something called Hyper-Inflation.
I feel that journalists have an obligation to present both sides of an issue and I feel your opinion piece accomplished this as most media will not report Obama’s policies in a negative light.
The tradition in this country is to criticize our elected offcials, the founders felt it is what will keep us free. Americans will never sit quietly and “give it a try and go for it.” This characteristic, to question and to criticize, is what makes us great.
Too often this newspaper has a “liberal” slant to it and that tends to get very boring, thank you for “shaking it up.”
You have a right to your strong negative opinion regarding President Obama’s policies, and I feel that you have done a service to your school community by presenting it.
An impressed parent.
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Jay Cisco Reply:
December 16th, 2009 at 9:19 pm
“Not only does your opinion mirror the general public’s (latest Rasumussen daily Presidential poll is at -12 Approval Index, the lowest of any president at this time in his administration, but you also served to educate the student body with facts (anyone can google your assertions to prove they are true).”
Oh I can google all right. I can google right over to Gallup, Rasmussen’s competitor, and see President Obama’s approval rating at 47%. Rasmussen’s poll is based on counting only those that have an intense like or dislike of the President. His poll has been widely blasted as inaccurate because it takes a small sample of “intense” people. So basically he only polls and publishes the numbers of the wildly emotional. No matter what side of the coin your on, irrationally emotional people is not what we need steering the country.
I would also like to point out that seemingly tipped your conservative hand by parroting the same poll that every single conservative politician in this country does.
I will close by saying I have no qualms with your arguments on the deficit or the danger to the country in that regard. I will ask you this though:
All of these people screaming about the deficit now……where were they when President Bush led us into a $3 trillion dollar war with Iraq? I didn’t hear any of the screaming or gnashing of teeth then. Where are all these deficit hawks when, during that time of war, he gave everyone a giant tax break?
It was dead silent then….
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December 16th, 2009 at 4:39 pm
President Obama never fails to disappoint YOU? No no no young lady….you disappoint your country and every single one of its citizens with this small minded piece of garbage you have tried to pass off as prose.
I like how you and the rest of the Reaganite zombies expect someone to fix an economy in 12 months that hasn’t looked this bad since the 1920s. You know how it got that way? Why don’t you ask our former President and the rest of his cabal? Go ahead…I’ll wait.
Now that you’re back (because that shouldn’t have taken long), let’s address the fact that you think the United States has the right to violate its own laws by holding people captive indefinitely. I know what you’re thinking, “But Jay they aren’t citizens” or “But Jay, some of them aren’t even detained inside of our country so they have no right to due process”. Well yes I could see how that would be a problem……BUT……there is one little thing….
You see it’s called the Geneva Convention. The US agreed to it and helped ratify it in 1882. It states:
“An unlawful combatant or unprivileged combatant/belligerent is a civilian who directly engages in armed conflict in violation of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and may be detained or prosecuted under the domestic law of the detaining state for such action.”
Key words being “prosecuted under domestic law”. U.S. domestic law contains no elements of coercion via waterboarding or any kind of deprivation. In fact our own Supreme Court GAVE the men at Guantanamo Bay the writ of Habeus Corpus on June 12, 2008. In fact, Justice Anthony Kennedy wrote of the decision, “”The laws and Constitution are designed to survive, and remain in force, in extraordinary times.”
So you disagree with the Supreme Court who is supposed to uphold the Constitution of our nation above all? If you do, then that is pretty un-American Ms. Bowser.
President Obama does not GIVE them anything. The U.S. Constitution and the domestic laws of the United States have given these men the right. When the interpretation is challenged, this is where the Supreme Court steps in to determine what should be done. It is their job to translate the laws of the land. I’m aware that you’re used to a system where former Presidents (Bush) acted in a wanton manner and just did whatever they felt like, but that’s not the way it is supposed to work. We have rule of law here, not a monarchy.
Oh and I need to ask this because I’m not sure if we’re on the same page. You ARE aware that there are more people in Guantanamo Bay than just KSM, correct? Or is that the name you hear on Fox News and you are simply parroting it back to us? There are people in the detention facility there, and this has been well documented, who have been in the wrong place at the wrong time. Taxi drivers, merchants, fathers and sons have all been detained with no charge of a crime. Suddenly, one day they are released back to their home country. No apology from the United States government is afforded to them. Are you proposing that we should be able to detain people for YEARS on end simply because they were Afghani or Saudi and were simply on the wrong street corner or near the wrong car?
I giggle with glee when I read your mob mentality and how you assume everyone in the Guantanamo Bay detention facility is guilty beyond all reasonable doubt. My thought, as a freedom loving American who wants to uphold the rule of law, is if we’re so sure of their guilt then there should be no reason we can’t try them for their crimes. What are you scared of? Are you scared they will tell you your mother is horrible? Or maybe you’re scared they will describe the horrendous war crimes that the United States has propagated across the globe all while carrying the banner that we’re the “good guys”? Sorry sweetie, the only people who still believe that farce also believe in Santa Claus.
So I close with asking why do you hate America so much? Why do you wish for our basic rule of law to be abolished? Why do you wish human beings to be tortured for your insatiable bloodlust? Why do you think the President is a Kenyan Communist?
It’s ok Ms. Bowser. Here….I’ll tell you what. You keep waxing Nixonian and the rest of us will live in reality.
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December 16th, 2009 at 4:41 pm
Dear Anonymous-
This is not Soviet Russia. All men are not created equally. All men are given the opportunity to become equal through hardwork and determintation.
Welfare handouts and food stamps are not the founding principles of America. Rugged individualism and the drive to build success are the founding principles of America, and the writer seems to understand that.
I appreciated the honesty of this column. Based on the writer’s willingness to have opinions and to speak her mind, I doubt she is ashamed of herself, nor should she be.
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Jay Cisco Reply:
December 16th, 2009 at 9:05 pm
“All men are not created equally.”
This right here, ladies and gentlemen, I offer as Exhibit A in the decline of America. Reading comprehension my dear friend. Nowhere does the piece mention food stamps or welfare programs unless you are trying to pull that from the two general statements that start the piece.
The belief that all men are not created equally is folly. Pure folly. You talk about the founding principles of America and then go on to insult the very essence of Jefferson by declaring his statements void.
The problems in this country are of a social/moral nature. Rich people have been yelling that poor people have been manipulating the system for generations while they themselves do the exact same thing. People in this country are more concerned with stepping on their neighbor’s neck to receive wealth, success, or health.
What do I mean by this?
Everyone can’t have healthcare. Why? Oh because my taxes may go up. Most people in this country would rather watch their neighbor die or starve to death than pay another 1-3% in taxes.
There’s a sub-set of foolish people that bought Ronald Reagan’s schtick hook, line, and sinker and those are the people I feel sorry for. Reagan told everyone that government was the problem. If government would just get out of your way, you could be wealthy like Bill Gates and live a happy life. When in reality, most of us will NEVER be Bill Gates but we still live comfortable lives with nice, jobs, homes, and schools. But yet everyday we still step on our neighbors because “those poor people are keeping us from having nice things”. Again, pure folly.
You want to know why America is so splintered and no one can come together to improve it? It’s because of people like you. To put it more simply, I’m sorry but it’s too hard to hold hands when your hands are fists.
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December 16th, 2009 at 7:03 pm
Dear Columnist,
As an alumnus of Archbishop Hoban, I too was alarmed to read this article. However, in response to many of the comments from those above, I apologize that your completely fair usage of free speech has been so condemned. The fact that a young journalist cannot speak her mind in a school paper (even though I also find your article offensive) is ridiculus and I am also ashamed that my fellow alumn neglect to acknowledge that the Visor’s newspaper does not reflect the views of the school. You do have the right to speak your mind and as clearly stated, this is an OPINION piece. Factual information was not included and some harsh comments were made but an OPINION can be as harsh as desired. You are brave columnist, you are brave.
-Knight of 1982
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Jay Cisco Reply:
December 16th, 2009 at 9:07 pm
One should also commend the paper for allowing a dialog below the piece. Very brave on their part as well. Amongst my angst of posting, I must admit that it must be admired that a free dialog is allowed to emerge on said work.
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knightof1982 Reply:
December 17th, 2009 at 2:36 pm
Jay Cisco,
do you get extreme enjoyment out of tearing apart every opinion other than your own? This poor teenager is being PERSONALLY attacked by many people who I presume are older than her. Attack her work, but how dare you or anyone else insinuate that she is un-American. Do you know her? I presume that you do not. If you’ll take a moment from your rapid argumentary posting spree, consider that she is saying these things because in her OPINION (note, OPINION) she does not like the direction America is headed because she, like you, loves our country.
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Jay Cisco Reply:
December 18th, 2009 at 10:41 am
“Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”
Read it…….and then….read it again.
Ms. Bowser absolutely and unequivocally has a right to her opinion. It is her right as an American citizen to call the President anything she so desires.
Ok now go back to the top of my post…..AND THEN READ IT AGAIN.
It doesn’t state that people have the freedom of speech and have the unequivocal right of never hearing a dissent on their opinion.
Ms. Bowser has a right to her opinion. Her opinion can be anything she wants it to be. I have a right to mine as well.
I don’t think Ms. Bowser needs you defending her. I would gather that she stands by her piece and her opinion and for that I respect her even if I viciously disagree.
Oh and…..
Read the top of my post again.
Cheers!
December 16th, 2009 at 7:21 pm
Anonymous, you should be ashamed of yourself. I feel that infringing on someone’s first amendment rights is *gasp* UN-UN-AMERICAN! It is our duty and right to question the government. And quoting Jefferson in the Declaration was not the best move, considering that he meant all white, landowning men. So please, let her talk. Unless you want to censor her. That would be Communist.
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James Moffitt Reply:
December 17th, 2009 at 6:13 pm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Communism
Please read over that and tell me where censorship is a basic tenet of Communism. Actually, a communist would support the opposite.
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Jay Cisco Reply:
December 18th, 2009 at 10:46 am
I think Anonymous means “Fascist”. It’s easy to mix them up when you don’t know what you’re talking about. I’m expecting the word “Socialism” to start flying around soon…..followed by a reference to Hitler. It’s usually what these things turn into.
I will reiterate that Ms. Bowser has a right to her opinion and has exercised her freedom of speech. People should respect that rather they disagree with her or not.
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December 16th, 2009 at 7:47 pm
I am absolutely confused as to why people are so offended about this article. It was written for a HIGH SCHOOl newspaper. I’m pretty sure not to many people outside the Hoban community will be reading it and/or concerned with it. People are acting like this is a world wide article, but in reality NO ONE CARES! Honestly, Nikki is 18 years old and I highly doubt she is going to be affecting the world with her articles anytime soon. (no offense Nikki). If you have nothing else to do except criticize a high school students article, you honestly need to get a life.
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Mark Cook Reply:
December 18th, 2009 at 1:28 am
Well I’m a Media Student from Scotland, and this article was brought to my attention.
And this “high school students article” which “NO ONE CARES!” about, shouldn’t have published, if that’s the way you want to take it. You say it’s not a world wide article, but it became as such the second it was put online.
Perhaps you should check the magnitude of a situation before you tell people it’s worthless, and especially before you tell them to get a life.
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LadyKnight'12 Reply:
December 21st, 2009 at 1:26 am
I think it’s great that people from other places are reading this article. Unfortunately, I think the online versio, complete with the debate we’ve got going on, makes Hoban seem like a much more turbulent place than it actually is, haha
How did you hear about this article, Mr. Cook?
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Mark Cook Reply:
January 2nd, 2010 at 11:41 pm
I’m sure this school is great, I don’t think I’ll ever base my opinion on a school on one person or article.
Someone I know who went to the school linked the article through Facebook, so I read the article to get my own opinion.
December 16th, 2009 at 7:56 pm
Yes, and all of the liberals are right about everything. Especially global warming. I told you so.
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December 16th, 2009 at 8:41 pm
As much as I don’t want to start a political debate on the Visor website, I had to say something about these comments.
There is nothing in the Geneva Convention indicating that ANY country has the obligation to allow those in the custody of their country the privileges of full citizenship. And I find it offensive that American citizenship would be granted to TERRORISTS, yes terrorists, who committed war crimes against America. Under any circumstances short of the ones these men are in now, I think it safe to say that the detainees would reject any positive association with the United States of America. In fact, I believe it is also very safe to say that they harbor hatred towards America. I’m sure we’ll see just how much hatred they harbor if they’re found not guilty (which, obviously, is a possibility if they’re going to be tried). I agree that they should be tried in a military tribunal as they are not United States citizens.
RyGuy: maybe you should have finished reading the Visor. Though I agree with you that not all of Obama’s actions have been negative, citing “trying to pass Climate change legislation” in his defense is not the strongest argument. Of course, climate change could be real. But I have less “Hopenhagen” about the integrity of the climate change scientists than I do about Obama’s health care reform. And in reference to that, no, the Republicans have not discussed their own plan for heath care with a public option. I believe many of them have expressed their concerns about creating any kind of public health care. All things considered, I don’t anticipate the Republican party developing any public health care platform that a majority of party members would get behind.
Mr. Moffitt, please don’t feel ashamed of Hoban. I understand that your political views differ from Nikki’s, but that the Visor printed this article is, I think, a display of what is good about Hoban. It shows one of the many facets of Hoban students: that we pay attention. If I was an alumnus, I think I would be encouraged to hear that teenagers are not the uncaring, brainless blobs we are stereotyped to be.
Back to the article, I liked it. I always read Nikki’s writing in the Visor. It was a leeeetle bit harsh, perhaps, but then so were many people’s opinions on former President Bush, included those opinions of the commenters on this article. I think the author “and the rest of the Reaganite zombies” would be justified in saying that your comments are not only harsh, but personally insulting and completely unnecessary.
I commend the Visor and Hoban for allowing the Visor staff to express their opinions.
I honestly enjoyed reading this article, and I will be looking forward to the next one!
You may call it “small minded,” but the column is called “brutally honest.” Thanks for keeping it honest Nikki.
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December 16th, 2009 at 8:50 pm
kinghtof1982,
I apologize if my original post came out as an attack on Ms. Bowser’s freedom of speech, I never intended to say she did not have the freedom to believe or even say such things. But it is also my right to express my disgust for such a piece. If this had been a post on some blog, or a comment to something else found on the internet, I would not have given it second thought and would have ignored it. However, even as an opinion piece, I think it’s naive to believe this article doesn’t reflect back on the Hoban community as a whole.
If others agree with her, that’s fine. I think you are wrong and should maybe reevaluate your thought process and maybe some actual global law, but I don’t ever wish to silence you. But as soon as you print a piece like this, even if opinion, you represent the entire past, present and future student body. Do you think a parent looking to place their prospective student in a high school is going to care if this is an opinion piece? Of course not. If they disagree then they will think further and extrapolate what sort of environment would support opinions such as water boarding because you think they deserve it.
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Jay Cisco Reply:
December 17th, 2009 at 2:58 pm
I’m with James on the freedom of speech evoked by Ms. Bowser. Ms. Bowser has a right to her opinion no matter how much I or anyone else disagrees with her. If anyone is suggesting she be silenced, then that my friends is very un-American.
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LadyKnight'12 Reply:
December 17th, 2009 at 4:37 pm
I think its naive to believe one article represents an entire student body and school. Especially when the Visor states otherwise.
How can you say that one 25 sentance article defines a whole group of people, past present,and future? Seriously?
You’ve got bigger issues if you define an entire (wonderful) school by one of their students’ high school newspaper articles.
Oh and no. I’m not embarassed to go to a school with an environment that supports free speech and opinions.
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James Moffitt Reply:
December 17th, 2009 at 6:25 pm
I think ti’s naive to believe people don’t made huge sweeping generalizations about a group based on a single individuals action. (Yes I see the irony in my statement and it only goes to prove my point.)
Yes free speech is a great thing. Foster and support that inside the school, but this is a public thing. What is said no longer effects just the current students. What if I go to apply for a job and the employer does a Google search for my high school and finds this article and associates Hoban students with it. No, it’s not nice, it’s not fair, but things work out that way sometimes. What if an alumnus who is sitting on piles of cash wants to donate to the school, and just before decides “Hmm, I think I will read up on the Visor to see how things are compared to when I attended.” Then that alumnus is driven away because of the lack of compassion for a fellow human being that is shown in this piece.
The right to free speech is something we should cherish and defend, but that doesn’t mean you can say whatever you want. There are consequences to your actions.
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LadyKnight'12 Reply:
December 21st, 2009 at 1:13 am
I think if the administration had any huge problem with alumni withholding funds from the school based on Visor articles, they’d have taken this website down. I suppose I am being “naive,” or perhaps expecting the best of people, thinking that they won’t jump to weakly based conclusions. Maybe I have more faith in people than that.
Darned Holy Cross values, teaching me all kinds of crazy nonsense.
Lolomae Reply:
December 18th, 2009 at 12:50 pm
Editorial articles were written in last year’s Visor that reflected opinions that I, nor my family agreed with. They criticized aspects of the Bush administration’s policies that we were for, and held up Obama in areas that we thought unbecoming for a Catholic school. We did not call the editor names, or try to silence him through intimidation, even though we disagreed.
My family has children that graduated from and currently attend Hoban. We did not base our opinion of the school upon an article written in their newspaper as we acknowledge that everyone has a right to their own opinion, of which there are many.
These kids are practically adults, many of them vote already, and next year will be living on their own in college. Most level headed parents agree it is good to hear what the kids believe, as robust debate is a sign of a school that produces kids that are trained to think for themselves.
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James Moffitt Reply:
December 19th, 2009 at 11:39 pm
Let me start with I’m very happy she is thinking for herself, and am glad she had the courage to make her opinions public.
I cannot comment on the other opinion pieces specifically, because I have not read them, but if any of them were using sensationalism to push a point then I would not be happy with them either. However, if the articles were based in debate that could be argued using facts then I would say they are fine. This article however is not grounded in facts. The first half started very promisingly, and I would have happily read the rest of it if it followed that line. My issue is with the support of torturing other humans that most definitely does not need to be coming from a high school newspaper (or any for that matter).
Lastly, could you show me where I have called Nikki names? I can see how my first comment would be seen as silence through intimidation, and truthfully at the time of writing ti it was. I however appended a new comment onto it apologizing for my statement.
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December 16th, 2009 at 9:02 pm
Nikki, you go! Of course the only people who are going to disagree with you are going to be the ones with “OBAMA 08″ stickers plastered on the backs of their cars. I think the people who should truely be “ashamed of themselves” are the ones who blatantly just tear you down on here. Also, if this singular article makes you ashamed to be a part of Hoban, James, then you clearly didn’t have a lot of school spirit, or you’re just being over-the-top facetious. I honestly loved reading this article; it’s refreshing to see a new point of view amongst all of the “President Obama is my hero” hype. Great article, Nikki! Keep writing!
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James Moffitt Reply:
December 17th, 2009 at 6:32 pm
I in fact loved my 4 years at Hoban. I would probably still enjoy it if I had to go back today. I still defend us furiously whenever a rival school is brought up in conversation. And I would still recommend any prospective student looking for an opinion to our great school.
That doesn’t mean I cannot be ashamed in some individual, public opinions made by the staff or school. I would be similarly ashamed if the school were cutting back on AP classes or slashing funding for extracurriculars if there were no need.
Also to contend with your first point, I’m actually rather upset with Obama right now about a number of his policy decisions and his lack of action, but that is completely irrelevant and for another time.
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December 16th, 2009 at 10:53 pm
While I understand that student newspapers can and should remove offensive comments, I don’t see why the discussion that was on here should have been deleted. None of the comments that were deleted were vulgar, threatening, or otherwise any more controversial than the comments that were kept.
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December 16th, 2009 at 10:59 pm
Honestly, I think this article is fine, and is ok to be ran in the Visor. She voiced her opinion, and you don’t have to agree with her, but you certainly do not need to attack a highschool student standing up for what she thinks. Any good journalist raises controversy – so way to go, Nikki.
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James Moffitt Reply:
December 17th, 2009 at 6:41 pm
I personally believe good journalism raises controversy while using facts. Even though I disagree with her, the first half of the article could have been used as a good step towards criticizing the administration. But this devolved into sensationalistic writing, that in many other places is used solely to increase reader base.
I would be happy to read work from Nikki in the future that is grounded in facts, with her opinions logically added, so that there can be an open debate about teh subject. This piece however does not foster such a debate.,
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December 16th, 2009 at 11:03 pm
Everyone who is on here bashing this article is being completely ridiculous. Our President won this election because America at this time is ignorant. He won the election with many empty promises, he has come no where near coming through with. These are WAR CRIMINALS not U.S citizens and in no way should be treated as citizens of the United States. For everyone who is saying he has not had time? I fully believe a year is plenty of time to make at least some small changes but there seems to have been none at all. Nikki i full support this article keep up the your writing!!
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December 16th, 2009 at 11:04 pm
“For my part, whatever anguish of spirit it may cost, I am willing to know the whole truth, to know the worst, and to provide for it.”
Yes it is totally unfair to try people under our political philosophy >_>… This country was founded under the principal that ALL MEN ARE CREATED EQUAL in addition ALL MEN HAVE CERTAIN UNALIENABLE RIGHTS. Your case in this article is atrocious, you are saying that since they are obviously terrorists and obviously guilty they should not receive a trial. The moment you make an article based on that theory you take away ANY persons right that a person is innocent until proven guilty. An argument that would actually make sense would be that it is unconstitutional to try them. My stance on that topic would be that an amendment should be made to the constitution that all war criminals shall also be tried under a US Court of Law. I believe that if a nation believes that their political ideology is correct then they should enforce it. As much as people like to think otherwise, having a political philosophy meaning you think the other ways do not work, and I believe that it is then that countries duty to try to enforce their political philosophy to ANYBODY in their territory.
-Sincerely,
Patrick Henry
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December 16th, 2009 at 11:37 pm
I don’t understand what’s so bad about a columnist placing her opinions in print. If you’re so strongly opposed to what was written down don’t make personal attacks on the columnist, figure out some defenses ( I see none) to what was written and form yourselves a conflicting piece of journalism.
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December 17th, 2009 at 12:02 am
“Although I agree these terrorists don’t deserve any special treatment but they deserve a trial, this is a FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLE of our country, why abandon it now?”
“I hold this truth to be self-evident, and I am distressed that you seem to not hold it the same: That all men are created equally. Your argument for disregarding the basic tenets on which our forefathers founded this fine country is offensive at best. You should be ashamed of yourself”
It has become apparent that you, like the majority of our current administration, have little to no understanding or regard for the Constitution. Did you honestly quote the very document that shows the unconstitutionality of this trial? I challenge you to show me where in the Constitution rights are given to foreign enemies of the state, especially war criminals. I’ll help you out here; you can stop looking now because you won’t find it. The Constitution grants rights to AMERICAN citizens only. This current trend in U.S. citizens, especially elected officials, forgetting or simply ignoring the Constitution is troubling to say the least. Have you any idea what type of man Khalid Sheikh Mohammed is? He is the self-confessed mastermind behind the 9/11 attacks, he personally decapitated the American reporter Daniel Pearl in 2007 on camera, was personally responsible for the murder and public mutilation of four other American contractors in the middle east, funded the 2002 night club bombings in Bali, and also funded the bombings of the World Trade Centers in 1993. The scariest thing, aside from the blatant disregard for the constitutionality of the issue, is that this man who has confessed to all the crimes listed above will probably be found innocent. This trial will quickly become a media fiasco, focusing purely on the water boarding that allegedly occurred during KSM’s interrogations. KSM will not be on trial; the United States will be put on trial. The fact that it is not painfully obvious to everyone that this issue has flagrant political motivations is shocking to me. Can you honestly tell me that the sole reason for KSM being brought to New York to be put on trial in federal courts in purely based on justice? If you believe this to be so, I apologize for bursting your bubble. Let me just give you a hint by telling you that I wouldn’t be surprised if George Bush is found guilty of torture and Americans start selling those rubber wrist bands in order to raise money for the poor, lost soul KSM’s legal fees.
It really is a shame that citizens of this country are so reluctant to hold our current administration to the same standards that we have held past presidents. Can you honestly deny the fact that Obama has been labeled as a modern day political messiah and strictly for this reason he has achieved a type of “untouchable status” amongst the political world? I believe he has. I give him and his public relations staff a great deal of credit for creating a public persona for that has managed to provide just enough smoke and mirrors to deflect any claims of incompetency or failure. The American people were mesmerized by his charisma and ignored is obvious failures as President of the United States. Fortunately, after watching his disapproval rating climb faster than the national debt he has graced me and my children with, it is apparent that the novelty of Obama is begining to wear off and the people are expecting results. Yes, you are right to say he did not come into the best of situations. In fact, he inherited a terrible situation. But how long can we continue to chalk up the lack of turn around to time? One year? Two years? Three years? I would not be surprised if at the end of his four years, as Americans stare down the mountain of an insurmountable deficit and the Constitution lay burning at our very own feet, that we finally say, “Damn, we just got played…” I certainly hope this is not the case. I admire our president’s ambitions. But ambitions don’t win wars, ambitions don’t fix housing crises, ambitions don’t relieve unemployment, ambitions don’t decrease deficit. I hope that in four years I can look back and think, “Wow…I was completely wrong about Obama, he was a great president” However, I fear that this will not be the case.
P.S.
I don’t understand why you would be ashamed of Hoban because of the sentiments of a single columnist. If you are new to periodical newspapers, I will help to fill you in. The opinions of columnists are just that: opinions of columnists. Nikki is not writing to represent the opinions of The Visor, let alone the entire Archbishop Hoban community. But if you do feel strongly about silencing this girl for exercising the rights established in the very document that you so readily cite (and incorrectly may I add) get out the red tape and censor this girl Comrade! What’s the going rate for a plane ticket to Siberia anyways? Heck, she can probably stay in the same log cabin as Lenin.
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December 17th, 2009 at 4:26 am
I agree wth this article. Even though I am a fan of Obama’s and support him, I am severely dissappointed in because I fel he has made no progress, let alone really try. I also agree with saying that it is unamerican to give these terrorists a right to trial before a jury. These people knowingly and willingly killed hundreds of americans, and we are giving them the choice of ending their suffering? The american that died did not have that choice. It digusts me that anybody leaving their opinon on here could agree with such a horrific idea. These are not Americans and should not be treated as such. As for anonymous, she should not be ashamed for telling what most are afraid to admit. I support Obama, but it is hard for me to say I support his plans to give these rights to people who still are not sorry for killing hundreds of loved Americans, strarting a war, and killingmore loved ones. Now that sir, is unamerican. I support thi article and am glad that she ad the courage to finally speak what is on many peoples minds.
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December 17th, 2009 at 7:46 am
This article was very well written. The writer says what a lot of Americans are thinking, but are too afraid to say! Since when is it Un-American to voice your opinion? Last time I checked, we were still a free country. I give the writer a lot of credit for writing such an articulate, conservative opinion.
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December 17th, 2009 at 11:50 am
Nikki,
Torture is not minuscule. We, as a country, should not abstain from torture because terrorists do not deserve to be tortured. We should abstain from torture because it fundamentally changes who we are as a country. Torturing another human being is evil. We become evil when we condone it. We must treat Khalid Sheikh Mohammed as a human being because he is one. If we believe that certain individuals do not qualify as human beings, and therefore do not deserve to be treated humanely, we will become the evil that repulses us. Your anger towards this terrorist is both understandable and justified. However, do not let him win by embracing the same evil. We must be careful not to become what we hate. I agree with Sen. John McCain (R-AZ) who said, “Anyone who knows what waterboarding is could not be unsure. It is a horrible torture technique used by Pol Pot and being used on Buddhist monks as we speak.” “People who have worn the uniform and had the experience know that this is a terrible and odious practice and should never be condoned in the U.S. We are a better nation than that.”
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Jay Cisco Reply:
December 17th, 2009 at 3:07 pm
Bravo Mrs. Bulgrin! Bravo! Beautifully written.
I grow tired of listening to people trying to downplay waterboarding and other forms of torture. I challenge anyone who thinks waterboarding is no big deal to go ahead and try it for themselves and get back to us.
I can’t believe that there are people here ACTUALLY SUGGESTING we keep people under lock and key for the rest of their lives with no trial, no charges, and subject to endless torture. Is this what America has become? A land of insatiable bloodlust and vengeance at the tip of a spear?
Charge the men at Guantanamo Bay or let them go. Keeping them there goes against every principle of American justice. As Senator McCain was stated above…..we’re better than that.
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December 17th, 2009 at 2:50 pm
@Mrs. Mary Bulgrin
What you say is correct, however, to give validity to anything written on the Constitution, the soul force behind our freedom and safety, it is mandatory that the statement “We the people of the United States of America” is upheld strictly. Let’s say Khalid Sheikh Mohammed is proven innocent, even if we were to find an unbiased jury, what then? What constitutes and act of war, or should we ignore military tribunals and international courts and just try everyone in our civilian courts? It’s not that we are being evil people, but that disregarding the documents that govern our nation could snowball exponentially, the principle of the matter is: Khalid is NOT a US citizen and should not treated as such.
In no way shape or form am I condoning torture or unfair trials, as a human KSM does deserve a fair trial, just not in American courts, not here.
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James Moffitt Reply:
December 18th, 2009 at 1:02 pm
Why? Why can’t we as a humane people attempt to extend the rights we hold so dear and love so much to others to hope that we can make life that much better for any innocents we can protect. I understand the fear that we may let a known terrorist back onto the streets, but if we are holding anyone in prison we damn well better have some solid proof of such crimes. And at that point there should be no worry of an innocent ruling. I believe Khalid probably deserves many many years in prison, but if we wish to remain a country that touts love of freedoms as part of our core then we must allow Khalid a trial.
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Tyler Cothren Reply:
December 24th, 2009 at 2:53 pm
It’s like arguing with a brick wall, KSM DOES deserve natural human rights but NOT in an American court which is intended for US citizens.
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James Moffitt Reply:
January 2nd, 2010 at 2:14 pm
Please inform me where I said he deserved a trial in the US Federal Court system. I’m ok with the separate court Obama had planed or even just a military court as long as the produce fair trials.
December 17th, 2009 at 3:04 pm
Imagine this scenario: you are a new mother holding your son in your arms for the first time. You name him Barack. His father’s name is Satchel Obama. You watch your baby boy grow up and excel at life. In fact, he becomes president of the US. Now, you happen to get ahold of a nasty article bashing your dear son. How would you feel?
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December 17th, 2009 at 3:12 pm
I think you have every right to say what you just did. I may not agree totally with what you have said but there’s no reason for u to be “ashamed” of anything. Nice work…
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December 17th, 2009 at 3:36 pm
Dear Whomever It May Concern,
I will FULLY AGREE with Mr. Sutter when he says,”I don’t understand why you would be ashamed of Hoban because of the sentiments of a single columnist.” Nikki was just voicing her opinion and I believe, at least the last time I checked, that free speech is also one of our fundamental rights as Americans. Although I disagreed with her article I would never think that she was in anyway unamerican for voicing her opinion. The ones who wrote that should actually be ashamed of themselves. Personal attacks on people are just good ways to getting people to get them to think the way you do by isolating the individual and making them look evil. In fact your half the problem on why things can’t get done in this country. Let’s stick to the facts people.
P.S.-I believe the Visor is doing a GREAT service to the Hoban community by allowing people to voice there opinions. I’ve already learned FACTS from comments on here(THAT HAVE STAYED ON TOPIC) that I may have never known if I wasn’t participating in the debate. I encourage all readers/commentors to stay open to things that you may not know and maybe you’ll learn something.
Also, although I didn’t agree with you Nikki your very brave to take all this criticism, Don’t listen to all those comments about you being Un American/ You should be ashamed of yourself because there simply not true and Wrong! more power to ya!
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December 17th, 2009 at 4:20 pm
Way to go Nikki!! Half the purpose of writing for the Visor is creating articles that will give readers a reaction. Well, you did just that.
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December 17th, 2009 at 7:03 pm
I wanted to add something that fits well as a response to so many other comments and to the article that I would rather it be a comment of its own.
So many posting ehre seem to make teh assumption that every person in guantanamo is an evil terrorist that has killed hundreds of Americans and deserves what is coming to them. The sad truth is that is nowhere near what is being asserted. Here are almost identical articles from both a right leaning and a left leaning news source:
http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2009/03/19/ex-bush-official-guantanamo-bay-innocent/
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/29778047/
As you can see, someone from inside the Bush administration admitted there were many many people who were held at Guantanamo even though they were innocent. There are likely still innocents wasting away in the cells as we argue in our privileged state about if it’s alright to torture information out of them. This is why those prisoners deserve a fair trial. Not necessarily a federal trial, a military court would likely be just fine (which is exactly what Obama is pushing actually), but it has to be some kind of trial.
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December 17th, 2009 at 7:19 pm
As a moderate liberal I have to say, I did buy into the promises President Obama made on his campaign trail. However, to support a candidate that falls far short of expectations is pure idiocy, regardless what side of the political spectrum you fall. Blind faith in any political ideal or candidate is dangerous, and the die hard Obama supporters would warrant much more respect if they acknowledged some of their candidate’s shortcomings. And to the critics of this article, to call a columnist “sickeningly Un-American” for expressing her opinion of the President is beyond ridiculous. To demonize a reporter for printing opinions different then your own is to support censorship, an ideal that is possibly as “Un-American” as you can get.
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Jay Cisco Reply:
December 18th, 2009 at 10:54 am
Let’s try to get this straight again…..
Ms. Bowser exercising her freedom of speech is NOT un-American.
Ms. Bowser’s opinion suggesting that the men held at Guantanamo Bay do not deserve a trial and should be imprisoned there and tortured forever IS un-American.
I think people are mixing the two up. Anyone who supports censorship is wrong. In fact, even thought I disagree with Ms. Boswer vehemently, I would terribly upset if they censored her writing or didn’t publish this piece. That is ALSO un-American.
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James Moffitt Reply:
December 18th, 2009 at 1:05 pm
No, to criticize a reporter for expressing her opinion is as American as I can get. You cannot defend free speech and in the same sentence attempt to censor my or an other dissenting opinion in this forum, no matter how well or poorly thought out they may be.
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Christopher W. Brady Reply:
January 9th, 2010 at 1:15 am
Mr. Moffit you have lost this fight. Please stop trying to win a battle that cannot be won. Your brash opinion and attacking a young lady for her impression on the lack of change that has not held up to Barack Obama’s large campaign promises.
James just let this article be and go comment on something good Hoban is doing or something exciting that happened in the halls of Hoban. For example Jim Tressel came into Hoban and was as classy as could be. I really hope he comes back and you can spend sometime around him and hopefully his positive attitude and classy act can rub off on you and take effect immediately.
I give you credit for one thing, it took some guts to put your name above the thoughts and opinions you had about this subject.
Sincerely,
Christopher William Brady
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James Moffitt Reply:
January 12th, 2010 at 11:20 am
Thanks for bringing me back to this post Chris. I haven’t commented in over a week and that was only because someone else responded to me before.
Unfortunately, I know I’ve lost this fight, and I’ve known that from the beginning and it still makes me sad. Granted, I realize and have admitted my emotions got the better of me a few times while posting here, but if you had read any of my posts you would know I sincerely wish her article had only been about Obama’s failings. As an Obama supporter I am always interested to read about things he is falling short on so I continue to be informed and can make informed decisions while voting. However, most of her article was a pro torture rant and I will not sit by, even though I knew coming in I was losing. Fighting against fear based decisions is not an easy task, but it was worth a shot.
As to your final point, thank you. I do not believe in anonymous posting while debating a contentious issue with peers I have a connection to (this excludes any parents that did not wish to involve their children who are attending Hoban.) I’m hoping to see more from the Visor in the future, and specifically from Nikki, which is more grounded in fact instead of fear.
December 17th, 2009 at 8:13 pm
good job Nikki! i think this article was well written and you have every right to speak your mind. No, it doesnt mean everyone is going to agree with you but that is also why it is called an OPINION. i think it is wrong for these alumn to attack a 17 year old girl who is simply writting what many other americans are thinking. Although i support Obama and disagree in some areas of your article you have the freedom of speech.
As far as this article reflecting Hoban in a negative way i 100% disagree. First, one student does not relfect Hoban as a whole. Second, this article shows that high school students do care what is going on and better yet, we understand it.
Nikki keep your head up and keep on writing =)
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classof2012 Reply:
January 7th, 2010 at 5:39 pm
i think nikkis article is great! and i also think 1) wrong to attack on a 17 year old girl who is using her FREEDOM OF SPEECH..in which people died to get for us…so at least she is voicing her opinion! 2)also brian gibbons is right..this doesnt associate with hoban..many people agree with nikki..but hoban isnt agreeing with everything she said so dont think hoban is like that..and lastly nikki i think this article was well written and keep making more great wriitings!!
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December 17th, 2009 at 11:42 pm
I am truly surprised by the number of adults (including hoban alumni) who not only read the articles on this website (which is a good thing), but the number who have enough time on their hands and who are lacking just enough to dignity to actually post comments in order to degrade a 17 year old girl for her views and opinions.
i can only hope that i come out of hoban with a little more class and respect for those brave enough to voice their opinions, even if the opinion is not necessarily popular, than some of the alumni who posted comments here.
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December 18th, 2009 at 8:50 am
Congratulations to Ms. Bowser for sharing her OPINION in an op/ed piece, especially at a time when expressing views such as hers is decried as blasphemy and an attack on our country– by the same people who spent the last eight years gleefully heaping contumely on the former administration. I am proud to say that I was a part of the Hoban Community, as the students are allowed to exercise their right to free speech. It is every AMERICAN’s right to express his or her opinion, no matter how unpopular, as long as it is not done maliciously. Regardless of one’s political beliefs or party affiliations, we would all do well to remember that.
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James Moffitt Reply:
December 18th, 2009 at 1:08 pm
I agree with you. Although, I personally believe the above article was maliciously written about a group of people that may or may not be innocent. Thus the reasoning for my protest.
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December 18th, 2009 at 12:12 pm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_Declaration_of_Independence
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/All_men_are_created_equal
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_states_constitution
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Us_bill_of_rights
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Communism
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Socialism
I have included the above links in an effort to educate you on the tenets of various forms of government, as it seems you are throwing around Communism and Socialism with wanton disregard for their principles.
I did not quote the Constitution, I quoted the Declaration of Independence.
From your posts it seems you wish to bring Democracy to all countries, but ban it from within our borders. With your claims that non-citizens do not deserve the luxuries we take for granted, such as a fair trial, I fear for any Canadians caught speeding on our soil. You lambaste me for “want[ing] to censor her,” while implying that I should not be allowed to speak what is on my mind. I applaud your ability to employ logical fallacies.
On the other side of this coin, there are those who wish Ms. Bowser to be spared from the tongues of those who would disagree with her vociferously merely on the grounds that she is a high school student. If the purpose of high school is to prepare one for college and the “real world” what end does shielding a pupil serve? To spare her would do her a disservice. Yes, the Constitution affords us the freedom of speech, the implication being that one should be prepared to receive criticism and accolades alike.
You are offended by the notion of a fair trial for these men? It would be a slap in their faces for us to treat them with the respect and dignity we afford our own citizens in spite of their atrocious actions against our country. You are all so sure of their guilt, but fear the outcome of a trial. Why? What harm can come from a trial that can not be lost?
You say quoting Jefferson was a misstep? I beg to differ. Yes, he did, at the time, mean “all white, landowning men.” Against this I can form no argument. However, even today people fight for all the same privileges as those “white, landowning men” without being willing to undertake the responsibilities. For example, women fight for equal pay, equal rights, and equal treatment under the law, but nary a one fights to be included in the draft.
For those who laud the quality of the writing or sing praise for whomever allowed this article to be posted in the first place, I have some parting words. Not once did I comment on the quality of the writing. Nor have I expressed a wish for its removal. As mis-attributed to Voltaire, “Though I disagree wholeheartedly with what you say, I would fight to the death for your right to say it.”
P.S. There is one thing I wish to clarify, and for this I apologize. When I quoted the Declaration of Independence it should have read “All men are created equal [before the law].”
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December 18th, 2009 at 3:44 pm
I’m glad to see that this is causing alot of reaction, as that is the point of the Visor!
Before I say anything, let me state clearly that in no way am I attacking Nikki. I think your opinions are valid. Though I personally liked President Obama, I too am quite disappointed with what has been happening. Your article is a tiny bit harsh, but it does get a good point across.
NOW the part that I don’t like. I find your comments about the water boarding quite offensive. The reason being, I do not see how anyone with Catholic or Christian values can condone torture of any kind, and dehumanization of any kind.
This, of course, is me assuming you’re Christian, correct me if I am wrong. IN NO WAY am I saying you’re a bad person! And in no way am I saying you are not a person of faith. However, I challenge you to look at a consistent ethic of life in your decision making..
For this reason, I personally think both the Democratic and Republican party suck
To me, a life is a life. Whether unborn, born, guilty or innocent, it’s still a life. You have a right to hate KSM for what he did, personally I do too, yet I would never approve of torturing him.
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December 19th, 2009 at 1:14 pm
I personally am proud of to be a Hoban Alum after reading this article. A young woman spoke her mind and wrote what she feels is the truth. We all have different opinions, and yes, I agree with hers completely. That does not mean mature Alum and students alike should ostracize and ridicule her for this. She is 17 years old, she does not write for the New York Times-please be sensitive to that, all. I suppose that’s the difference between Conservatives and Liberals; you’re always too angry to see the pettiness of your actions. Look at yourself, see how fired up you have become over ONE differing opinion, and please do some self-evaluation for your own good.
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James Moffitt Reply:
December 19th, 2009 at 11:50 pm
You can’t change the world thousands of people at a time. If you believe strongly enough in what you are defending then you try working for it one person at a time.
Also, it seems the scope of the argument has been lost throughout the comments. My entire opposition was to the support of torture. She can write about Obama’s shortcomings all she wants, since he does have plenty. But supporting torture on any human being is something I find deplorable, and I will not sit quietly by as she tries to convince an entire high school that it is alright.
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December 19th, 2009 at 4:20 pm
As Hoban alumni, this makes me PROUD to read this. Just because your opinion differs from that of the “majority” does not make your opinion wrong, Nikki. The thing that Obama is trying to change about America is oppositional speech, and with your article it is proven that people that support him cannot take criticism and only fight back with anger, name calling, and insulting language. *notice they choose not to leave their real names.
Keep up your writing and I couldn’t be happier to see an article like this in the Visor. There are MORE people that support you than oppose you!
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KDR Reply:
December 26th, 2009 at 10:58 am
To Ms. Stover: “Just because your opinion differs from that of the “majority” does not make your opinion wrong…” I can’t find a poll of American people to prove that the majority of us approve of giving non-USA citizens a trial in our courts. Besides Khalil Sheikh Mohammed has already admitted his guilt?! This is an opportunity for KSM to bash the USA and for liberals to bash Bush.
I agree with all that Nikki has written. Quite refreshing to at last see a different view from last year’s editorials!
KSM will spend the rest of his days in Gitmo North.
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David Reply:
December 27th, 2009 at 4:05 am
The people who support her scare me because it shows our school programs that teach history are failing, because many of the things that have been said are very unamerican and clearly against the constitution. Yet people say things out of pure ignorance, which reminds me of FOX news. Thus is leads me to think we have a serious issue on our hands.
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December 20th, 2009 at 12:06 am
So, I count 10 people leaving their full names on this article. I see 5 that are in opposition to it (almost entirely the torture part), 3 that are in support of it, and 2 that are responding to specific comments and do not give their full opinion about teh article specifically.
Yes, many people cannot post under their real name because of issues that might arise from making public arguments such as this. Especially parents who want to be a part of the dialogue. If I were a parent with a child at Hoban I most definitely would not associate my (and ultimately their child’s) name with this. Otherwise, I think most of the other anonymous posts can be ignored.
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December 22nd, 2009 at 7:06 am
Why are some adamant that we defend the rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution for U. S. citizens? Is it because those rights are fundamental and vitally important for a civil society based on the freedom of the individual. If this is so, why are some so quick to extend those rights only to those with U.S. citizenship? If the rights guaranteed to U.S. citizens are important to be defended for U.S. citizens, how can one make the argument that ONLY U.S. citizens deserve those rights? Do I as a human being deserve more simply because I was born inside the borders of the U.S.? This attitude, which seems to have been revealed by the article and subsequent discussion, concerns this adult. I would encourage you to examine your attitudes and determine if they are appropriate for one who truly believes in the rights you profess to be important.
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KDR Reply:
January 4th, 2010 at 4:43 pm
Terrorists are not part of any civil society, as we witnessed with the Detroit plane bomber…on Christmas Day. This will upset you, but 58% of people polled are in favor of water boarding the Detroit underwear bomber to get more information. I’m not in favor of torture, but with a lawyer in our court system, he doesn’t even have to talk to interrogators. Ck it out: http://www.rasmussenreports.com, See Top Stories.
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January 10th, 2010 at 11:09 pm
You are entitled to free speech but, you need to look at some facts before you get mad and write (wrecklessly).
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Rae'Lyn Morgan-Pegues Reply:
January 22nd, 2010 at 1:39 pm
Agreed!!!!!!
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January 24th, 2010 at 2:32 am
As a Hoban graduate (and proud former Visor staffer!), I’m deeply disturbed by the number of hateful comments directed against the author of this article.
While I personally don’t agree with her views (and was grateful to see my views expressed by two of my former teachers, Mrs. Bulgrin and Mr. Bryant), she was completely within her rights to express her opinion – and more than that, was extremely brave to publish these views in a public forum and attach her name to them.
How pitiful that some people, even grown adults, can attack Ms. Bowser’s opinions without publishing their own names. (How brave the Internet can make some people.) Good for her – a substantive article in the Visor that creates a discussion at Hoban (a real discussion, not just sports or entertainment).
I can’t agree with her views, but I’m proud to see her article nonetheless. With that, I’m going to protect my own anonymity, because some of the people commenting on this article are frankly frightening.
-Alumnus of ’08
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January 26th, 2010 at 12:08 am
I realize much time has past, and there are far more critical topics to discuss than a “Commentary” wriiten by a 17-yr old high school student. However, I just can’t seem to “shake off” my utter disappointment in those responsible for publishing this student’s “opinion” of our President of the United States. Where are the teachers or Editor-in-Chief of The Visor, a publication of Archbiship Hoban High School? A Catholic high school that is supposed to follow the Mission of The Brothers of the Holy Cross. A Mission that states: “We celebrate our diversity, value each person, and welcome one another with the hospitality of Christ”. Where are those who took on the responsibility of teaching our students respect through the writings of The Blessed Basil Moreau: “I have always been convinced that the first duty of any teacher is to produce Christians”? Where is Hoban’s philosophy where: “There is an attitude of respect that draws out potential and encourages change and growth…We stand side by side with all people.” “We will place education side by side with instruction, instruction transmits knowledge and skills while education of the heart fosters the values, attitudes, and behaviors which will use that knowledge and skills APPROPRIATELY and PRODUCTIVELY.”
I could go on and on, but I have probably already lost any readers left! My purpose is to try to get anyone still reading to look at the big picture here. In my “opinion”, this “commentary” from a 17-yr old struck a nerve with the reader’s of The Visor because of its total lack of respect for the service of President Obama. There is a fine line between “free speech” and “character assassination”. Referring to our President as “a hypocritical liar” crossed that line. As did her reference to those who voted for him as fools. I ask those who are supposed to be guiding these “commentators” , did you do your job? Did you teach this young writer how to walk this thin line using “appropriate and productive skills”? Did you teach her to write with the “zeal and discipline” befitting a student of Archbishop Hoban High School? I think not.
As a result, she will suffer when or if she attempts to go on to write for a college publication. She will be passed over by thousands of other students who were taught the art of being a true Commentator.
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January 26th, 2010 at 1:36 am
In case I did not drive my point home the first time, let me be very clear. I am in NO WAY attacking the commentator! On the contrary – I feel for her. She is “basking in the glow” from all the buzz she created by exercising her right to free speech. If an instructor does not step in and teach her the appropriate and productive way to commentate, her 15 minutes will be up.
Have we all forgotten the Kanye West incident (the first one) after Hurricane Katrina where he stood on stage on live TV and said, “President Bush hates all black people”?! He left Mike Myers standing there looking like a “deer in headlights”. And the rest of America was shocked. In an instant, Kanye lost all credibility when he chose that forum and those words all in the name of “free speech”.
If you have a message you want to convey, then you’d better pick the proper forum and language you use. Making offensive statements about a “sitting” President who is working hard to get us through a national crisis probably isn’t the best way to get your point across. Maybe Kanye should have been on a boat down on the Bayou rescuing people off their roofs instead of standing on that stage personally attacking the President.
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January 26th, 2010 at 7:28 pm
I am disappointed beyond words that a student at my alma mater feels the need to publish an opinion piece filled with so much hatred, and, perhaps more importantly, a lack of basic understanding regarding Constitutional principles. Those who defend the right of this columnist to speak, regardless of how abhorrent her views, are upholding the ideals upon which this country was founded. I find it terrifying that the next generation of American leaders first holds such views and secondly expresses them so poorly. While I cannot help but defend the author’s right to speak, I can and will remember this the next time I receive a Hoban mailing asking for a donation. Clearly, the education I have been funding has been greatly devalued.
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February 5th, 2010 at 1:32 am
I completely agree with you Miss Bowser. I appreciate your opinion and applaud your bravery to voice your opinion.
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March 9th, 2010 at 7:38 pm
This piece is beyond the pale; but this author has the right to express her views.
But when did marshaling facts to support an opinion become irrelevant?
Torture of any human being is unacceptable. Ask the Pope.
And yes, torture is unAmerican any time any place. Read the 8th Amendment.
Moreover, a Republican dominated Supreme Court, i.e., conservative, has construed the U.S. Constitution to afford rights to terrorists at Gitmo; those who think the U.S. Constitution applies only to U.S. citizens are just plain wrong. And those Supreme Court decisions are consistent with both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution.
What’s going on in the history classes at Hoban?
Jim Burke ’67
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