NU Daily

IDCIDWIW

2007-02-02T15:19:00.000-05:00

Well ... there are several reasons for the brazen hiatus of this publication. I shall spare the gruesome details, but suffice it to say that NU Daily

*WILL*

continue to be updated. Period. End of story.

If there are problems, discrepancies, or complaints about the content, feel *free* to leave a comment or email me at the address provided. I welcome feedback. I abhor backstabbers.

Weekly Highlight:

One can only imagine why the CIVILIAN Ring Committee has decided to use the CORPS side for their ring this year. I doubt that'll make it past the initial stages, due to the obvious uproar. Either they were completely out of ideas or looking for attention. I presume the latter.

It's comparable to how Hollywood has run out of ideas and has been using comic books, video games, and sequels to produce new films ... has the civilian population run out of ways to represent themselves?

If they would like to put "NUCC," "MCV," and the rook piece on their junior ring, I would recommend going through rookdom first.

Is it hard? Of course not. Not anymore anyway. Plus, I doubt the majority of the civilian population (which I happen to get along with, thank you) wants the Corps side on their ring ... or they would have "Checked the Wrong Box" as we lovingly refer to it. My thoughts? Don't hate on the civilians - they want a ring, too - but their Ring Committee is 'out their damn minds!'

Endstate?

Rumor: 2010 is the year for "standardized class rings."

Because there's no difference between the Civilians and the Corps.

Remember the Cadillians?

Look for a new poll on this in a week or so ... after I've evaluated your alcoholism. ;o)

Oh, and it's Hundreds Night. Meh.

This publication was brought to you by Norwich University and the Corps of Cadets, myself, and by viewers like you!

Giant Big Enormous Update

2006-12-12T18:59:00.000-05:00

Gah! So much has happened in the week I have failed to update.

Besides the FIRST snow --

-- which is now gone

First, another example of the disasterous results when Norwich tries to host a "social" event. Two Saturdays ago was the BRAWL (yes, brawl) at the "Tiki Bar." Unfortunately, I had already ~~stumbled out~~ left when the fight between the ... ahh ... "Urban Performers" and the general student population went full-swing bar fight. Gosh, I miss everything. Anyone have pictures??

Second, a classic tradition happened on Monday, 4 December - Saint Barbara's Day. As one of the Arty boys so eloquently put it, "You're gonna hear it anyway, so you might as well go out and watch it." Exactly. Love it every year. Nice job, boys.

More pictures are here - definitely check them out. Courtesy of Johnson!

Third, some crazy things have been happening among the freshmen companies, and all I can do is laugh and shake my head. It does, however, result in a very crowded TOUR STRIP ... two companies ... impressive.

Lastly, for now, whose bright idea was it to put candles inside paper bags and place them around campus? I mean, the fire department may be bored, but come on!

This report was brought to you by Norwich University and the Corps of Cadets, myself, and by viewers like you!

Not-So Fouled Up

2006-12-01T17:55:00.000-05:00

Behold, there's at least one band on campus that hasn't died.

Norwich University's own faculty jazz band, SNAFU, gave two Note-worthy (ouch, that pun hurt) performances this evening in Milano Ballroom. The group features seven university professors whose talents include drums, bass, vocals, saxophone, piano, trombone, trumpet & cornet.

The Fall Semester's program was comprised of Latin jazz from the late forties through the sixties.

It may take a few extra-credit points to lure Norwich students away from an early Happy Hour on a Friday, but the Credit tonight really goes to SNAFU - tapping feet spread faster than Alumni Hall's plague of 2006!

The military has "mandatory fun" ...

The Corps has "Rent-an-Audience" (read as: FAP/TMT guest speakers & football games) ...

And the professors have points-based culture.

The difference being no one snuck out of the latter. (not that anyone would ever sneak out of the former of course)

Sounded good!

Tonight's report was brought to you by the talented musical stylings of SNAFU's professors: Chevalier, Clements, Ehly, Jagemann, Pennington, Ryan, Tallman, and Ehrman; by myself, the Norwich University Corps of Cadets, and of course, viewers like you. Photos taken by me and published with permission ... sort of. ;o)

On a Serious Note

2006-12-01T13:50:00.000-05:00

Thoughts and Prayers go out to the family and friends of former NU men's hockey captain Mike Serba, who was beaten to death in an alley last Saturday by Nicholas Crowdis, 22. The violence of his death is shocking and tragic.

The Toronto Sun had the best account of the story.

The Burlington Free Press has more of a bio.

CFRB had the short version.

NU has sent out an email concerning funeral transportation and times.

I'd like to encourage everyone to keep this family in your thoughts and prayers, especially during this year's [amazing] hockey season. I will be.

The Food Poll

2006-11-30T12:48:00.000-05:00

The new poll is a result of several people, both Corps and Civilian, bringing this to my attention.

One case was an engineering student trying to get from class to lab to work, but couldn't utilize the grab 'n' go option because of the line of rooks out the door, up the road, and beyond.

Another was a Corps cadre member noting that there's nothing preventing the rooks from using that option to get out of going to mess and dealing with what might be the only annoying part left of their freshman year (slackers).

For once, I'm completely neutral since I pretty much gave up eating in general. I have been in the "chow hall" exactly five times this year, having abandoned Sodehxo entirely, as I predicted earlier.

If it's really impacting you, vote away. Someone might give a shit eventually.

Stories? Leave in the comments section for this post.

This entry was inspired by the Norwich University Corps of Cadets, created by your favorite WebMistress, and as always, designed for hungry viewers like you.

Two Cents Tuesday

2006-11-28T12:33:00.000-05:00

IMHO, people who talk about news, issues, problems, or even other people that they don't know a thing about are naive at best and elitist at worst. Yes, this includes casual conversation, and here's why:

Even statements beginning with "I think ..." are subject to scrutiny, because honestly, what you think may be completely wrong, idiotic, and deserving of incessant abuse. You are entitled to think all the wrong things you like, but don't expect to be free from criticism. For example,

"I think the world is flat."

"I think we never really went to the moon."

"I think I'll vote for John Kerry." (ooo ... zinger to the liberals)

Even just,

"I think."

For some of you, those two words alone are a flat out lie. You can think what you want, you can say what you want, and you can have your own opinion ... but if you can't back it up with any substance, who's going to listen to you? Perhaps your family or close friends humor you, or you can always try a chat room, but most creatures with opposable thumbs will see right through you.

That's my Two Cents for Today on:

People that are missing the filter between brain and mouth.

Four Famous Words ... and Stories

2006-11-21T15:06:00.000-05:00

This entry is to clarify (for the underclassmen), refresh (for the departed), and explain (for the outsiders) two important Norwich rules.

One, is the truth around the four infamous words that result in the most havoc, chaos, and hilarity on campus. These four words ... any guesses?

"You won't do it."

The response: "WHO won't do it?!"

The requirement (upon clairfication, "YOU won't do it."): following the utterance of those words, the person targeted MUST perform whatever was challenged. There are no excuses for danger or embarrassment, but a case may be made if the challenger is an idiot. Disputes are settles by popular vote of group present.

The result: (IMPORTANT!) Any and ALL consequences, credit, blame, damage or otherwise that occurs as a result is inflicted upon the person who said, "You won't do it." It is important to adhere to the direct, unconditional, and immediate transfer of responsibility, just as it is important that the challenged not back down.

Those are simple, steadfast, and well-tested rules. If you have any pictures or videos that were the direct result of those four words, send them over and I'll post them.

Second is the mystery and intrigue of an Official Norwich Story. What makes it Official?

Fine, I'll tell you - it's how you start it off.

The requirement: All Norwich stories, to be Official, must begin with the words, "So there I was ..."

This is often expanded to, "So there I was, knee/balls deep in [whatever] ..."

You get the idea.

Official Norwich stories often end in either (in the case of the anti-climactic)

"And then I found 20 bucks!"

or,

"And that's how you make great pancakes."

Comments? Leave 'em.

This post was compiled for your viewing pleasure by the Norwich University Corps of Cadets, your favorite WebMistress, and as always, by viewers like you.

Official Safety Brief

2006-11-21T14:55:00.000-05:00

Since it's already Tuesday, and everyone's had sufficient time to misbehave, I will now give the resident student population the Official NU Daily Classic Norwich University Safety Brief.

"Don't Do Stupid Shit. It's stupid."

"Don't Do Anything Your Cadre Will Read About in the News."

"Don't add to or subtract from the population at large."

And from last Thursday's Jackman speech,

"It's called drinking after driving. Don't Do It." (Thank you: VSM/SGM)

Funny, I thought it was the other way around ...

Leave your favorite safety brief advice imparted to you (or invented by you) in the comments section. Everyone's cadre had some good ones ...

These safety brief excerpts were collected from the past four years of stellar Norwich University leadership, the Norwich University Corps of Cadets, your favorite WebMistress, and of course, by viewers like you.

On Recognition

2006-11-14T07:57:00.000-05:00

Pictures to be posted at a later date. Expect the entries to be light on photos for a while ... long story.

To the freshmen:

Congratulations. You are the newest cadets here. Today is your first chance to show the Corps, yourselves, and anyone else that you came here for a reason. This is when you show us that it means something. This is when we see if it was the right decision. Remember that military customs and courtesies are not for Rookies alone, and she that giveth can also taketh away.

The the sophomores and juniors:

Quit whining about the fact that they're recognized in November. Quite frankly, no one wants to hear it. It isn't about the recognition date itself, but their progression into functioning members of the Corps. If that's not happening, address that issue. Piss and moan about the lack of training, discipline, whatever ... but stop splitting hairs about the date. They don't have so many privileges that they'll be wreaking havoc in mass ... hopefully.

To the seniors:

If they really can't handle it, they'll be kicked back in the gutter. It's that simple. There is no impact on our daily life resulting from recognition. If there is ... that's a sign of a serious problem which would need immediate attention.

To the CDT Staff:

Good planning and execution on the part of the ceremony. (Yes, that's a real compliment)

To All:

It's a fact of life that the Corps gets easier every year. The alums from the "Old Corps" had it harsher than this generation, who trained more than the recent alums. The young alums had more difficult accomplishments than this year's seniors. Our seniors had it harder than the juniors, who did more than the sophomores who had it rougher than the freshmen. This year's freshmen get to complain about the recruits next year having a cakewalk. It is the nature of the beast. The Powers that Be are afraid of training injuries and lawsuits, the freshmen are more out of shape, and to quote the only thing I remember from any CSM meeting freshman year,

"We can't make up for 18 years of bad parenting."

Blame it on Society. ;o)

This entry brought to you by Norwich University's newest cadets, a group of rowdy upperclassmen, ie: the Norwich University Corps of Cadets, myself, and by viewers like you.

Blame it on Society

2006-11-06T05:58:00.000-05:00

This is the one you've been waiting for: Collective Action, Electronic Rights, and apparently, the Future of the Corps at Norwich.

The main points of this post were drawn from my observations at the Open Forum held last Friday. I went prepared to defend the honor of this publication ... a message that never needed to be delivered, surprisingly enough. I said not a single word (shocking as that may seem ... I was afraid to open my mouth to the effect it might not shut for a while). While there was no angry mob attempting to undermine my online witticism, there were several interesting topics. The best of which follow ...

Facebook, Jackman, and Collective Action: The Breakdown

First, YES - Jackman is all about reading Stalkerbook and SpySpace. Come now, it is public domain after all...

If you'll kindly flip to page 50 of the Glossary of the NUCC R+R (that's Rules and Regulations), you'll find the following:

"Collective action. Collective resistance to a system of discipline is far more serious than resistance by an individual and will not be tolerated. Participants will be subject to disciplinary action to include dismissal. A student will not enter into any written or oral agreement to violate or evade the Norwich University Rules and Regulations. A student will not conspire to or join with others in any act contrary to the rules of good order.
Note: It is not collective action for a student to respectfully raise an issue or ask a question or attend or participate in any University sponsored event, club, forum, or meeting on campus."

Now, besides needing some grammatical attention, the first two words of that little paragraph are spoken in hushed tones. Rightly so, with the word DISMISSAL in the same sentence. There have been rumors flying left and right about Facebook groups, websites like this one, and the general parameters of the above.

Conclusion? Unless I was posting a 10-Step Manual on the Storming of Jackman Hall, or rallying troops for a coup d'etat, then it's good-to-go. This may raise ~~riots~~ issues, but everything is spelled properly and written with a degree of respect to the individuals involved, and especially to the beloved institution.

PS - the Take Back the UP group was mentioned as an example, and given the "OK" by the brass ...

The last question in this topic was responsibility. Are the creators of blogs or facebook groups responsible for comments left by others on them? The answer was a clear, "No, unless the owner claims responsibility themselves from the beginning." A stupid move when throwing college kids and keyboards the ability to type on the internet ...

On Spelling ...

Apparently I'm not the only one to cringe at comma splices and homonym mix-ups. A professor at the forum would not let this point die, however, going to far as to suggest some sort of ... sanction ... ?

Yes ... excellent idea! Four direct tours for spelling errors; only two for misuse of semi-colons. CC for starting sentences with 'but' or 'and.' Harsher penalties for those using "all of the sudden" and "per say." *shiver*

Hey, I don't like the middle school grammar either ... but that earned my award of the week. (which is impressive considering I watched the MSII's bumble around the woods all weekend and saw some GOOD ones ...)

Spellcheck, sir, will not fix the problem of admitting dumb students. I can tell you from being in the lab during mandatory sports teams' study hall (read as: internet games and chat rooms) and feeling the room's net IQ drop considerably, that you're admitting dumb people.

Maybe only dumb people are applying, and imposing stricter admission standards would put a squash on the expansion plan. Lesser of two evils, is it? Perhaps more targeted advertising? If you appeal to the masses, that's exactly what you will get.

I'm no admissions counselor ... maybe the entire college-age population "faled inglish." What do I know?

NEXT!

Cadillians ... Our Future?

The rest of it was a big headache. It rattled on about Corps and Civilian tension with a "why can't we all just get along" undertone to it.

The biggest bomb dropped was a civilian claiming, "there's no difference between the Corps kids and the civilian students ..."

"There is definitely an inherent difference between students that choose the Corps and those that become civilian students. If there wasn't, there would be no reason for the Corps to exist," responded one cadet with what I consider the best remark of the evening. (congrats)

The best civilian suggestion? Educate incoming civi freshmen about the Corps ... first-hand. ;o)

And I get along with a ton of Civi's ...

My take? Cohabitation & coexistence will never equate to assimilation. F#ck the melting pot. The more Mexicans that jump the border doesn't make me want to celebrate Cinco de Mayo. We can live together, but you're not going to blur a divide that's, in someone else's wise words, inherent.

One seventh of one-percent attend a senior military college ... 65% of the college-age population is enrolled in higher education. (email me for questions of validity of calculations)

My advice for paving the road to a civil two-party system is to level the playing field. You'll never ease embedded tension until UNIVERSITY POLICY (note: that says "student," not just "Corps") is enforced UNIVERSITY-WIDE. Don't even try to tell me it is, because it is not. That is common knowledge on both sides of campus. The alcohol policy, Honor Code, and even common issues of respect like spitting on the UP or removing your ~~doo-rags~~ damn hats in the mess hall aren't addressed in equal force ... or even close. True story, no bullshit.

It's views like that which will kill the Corps. I'll address the Rook training in another entry, because that's the other thing contributing ... or maybe it really is just society producing less of "us."

NEXT!

For That Guy!

This is for that guy who thought he was cool bringing a printed copy of this publication and never confronting me directly. The guy that accused me of speaking on behalf of the Army and possibly causing all sorts of trouble. For someone who printed it out, it's disappointing that you didn't even read the TOP part! I clearly and explicitly state that I am not speaking on behalf of the Army, right at the top. That being said, any statement beginning with "I think ..." (such as, "I think Kerry is a raging moron") is entirely within my scope of abilities to say, provided I am off-duty, out of uniform, and not violating OPSEC. Yes, I had those classes out of the Skill Level 1 manual, too! Apparently, I paid more attention. ;o)

Army doesn't like blogs? Hmm ...

This entry brought to you by various representatives of Jackman Hall, forum attendees, the Grammar Police, Norwich University Corps of Cadets, your humble WebMistress, my imaginary underground militia and by viewers like you.

This Is Not a Blog

2006-11-03T08:15:00.000-05:00

Wait ... WHAT?!

That's right. This is not a blog. This is a web presence.

"Semantics!" you cry, "Synonyms!"

Hear me out. This is my effort to separate myself and this publication from the mainstream, stereotyped "blogger-ess" and "blog:"

Bad Poetry - and I mean heinous.

Pointless Details on one's daily life - no one cares that you had cheerios for breakfast because the cornflakes were stale ... unless they're stalking you. In which case they'll just crawl in your window and read your non-digital secret diary anyway, right?

You're the next Socrates? Philoso-bloggers. (Yes, I made that up)

ALL of the Above!?

Cheap Advertising - and by cheap I mean free.

The 'Tortured-Soul-Gothic-Princess-Emo' rubbish - someone wake up on the wrong side of the coffin today?

Dribble on Pets, Kids, or hobbies. A photo-pile, usually.

Your Vacation - umm ... yay?

The LinkDump - 'nuff said.

Oh, and apparently Cult Meetings. I found this one while looking for another category ...

I'm not bashing personal sites! I have several favorite bookmarks of other people's ramblings. The quality of any site is directly proportional to the writing itself. I, too, have a personal blog. Entries are limited to personal experiences that I presume to be amusing. Might as well let the public share a laugh at my expense. However, I can accept the fact that my life is not nearly interesting enough to warrant a daily log of its events ... but the campus on the other hand ... IS!

NU Daily - not a blog about "my life at Norwich."

~*~ More Interesting than CliC and Better Grammar Than the Guidon ~*~

This entry brought to you by the various bloggers in cyberspace (sorry to make an example out of you - I'm sure you have lots of fans, really ...), the Norwich University Corps of Cadets, and myself - the humble Editor.

Even CNN Can't Spin It ..

2006-11-01T00:04:00.000-05:00

Kerry told a college crowd Monday: "You know education, if you make the most of it, and you study hard, and you do your homework and you make an effort to be smart, you can do well. If you don't, you get stuck in Iraq." - USA

Video - from the most liberal site out there

I imagine he has a hard time with serviceacademy nominations. What, wrecking those poor students' lives like that...

As all of you know, I tend to keep my own politics off this site. However, this being a MILITARY school ... and given the phone conversation I had this evening with someone who is in Iraq right now:

Him: What did you put as your duty station?
Me: Heh, does it matter? All roads lead to Iraq, right? It's just a place to PCS out of ...
Him: Yeah, you're not kidding ...

Shortly after that, the phone cut out. Not unusual in such circumstances, as I'm sure many of you know.

You've heard the quote, 'There are two types of soldiers in the Army today: those that have already been to Iraq and those waiting to go.' (couldn't find link)

Sorry, all the soldiers I know aren't/weren't in Iraq because they "didn't do their homework."

Someone tell Kerry that our military isn't a dumping ground for the illiterate (that's the Guidon! ... ooo ... just kidding, guys!)

While you're at it, teach him about run-on sentences.

Not everyone here is seeking a commission. Those of us that are, apparently ... well ... draw your own conclusions because my ranting will not do much for those that far into stupidity's grip.

As for the "botched joke" defense ...

"Kerry was supposed to say, "I can't overstress the importance of a great education. Do you know where you end up if you don't study, if you aren't smart, if you're intellectually lazy? You end up getting us stuck in a war in Iraq." CNN

... does that not make Kerry look dumber? Oh, Zinger! Good one, except you landed the punch line on the entire US Armed Forces dedicated to protecting your dumb ass trying to insult the Commander in Chief. Yeesh.

I know someone he can hire to write jokes for him ... about causing hurricanes an' stuff ;o)

I am not ashamed to be from Massachusetts.

I am ashamed that HE is representing Massachusetts.

As a soldier (yes, I earned that title), as a student, and as an American - those three do go together - someone tell him that.

This entry brought to you by the Commie News Network, a group of witty Marines, USA Today Yesterday, and myself - the humble Editor. Notice here that all statements were made from linked/documented news facts, personal experiences, and opinions noted as exactly that. My opinion has always been that Kerry is a raging dumbass. Formulate your own.

"While You Were Sleeping ..."

2006-10-31T12:34:00.000-05:00

For those of you well-behaved enough to utilize your Mandatory Sleepthrough, I (being the dedicated public servant that I am) was kind enough to document the event for you ... from the comfort of my UP-side lawnchair of course. Hey, it's not every day one is banned from a parade; haven't you always wanted to pull up a chair during one? Unfortunately, this one wasn't quite the same, for obvious reasons.

There were, of course, some of the old favorites. Every year there are a few of these:

And some of these:

However, there were a few seemingly original companies as well ...

It was definitely worth the effort of getting out of bed ... well, yes ... I was at a training meeting prior, but you get the idea. I encourage the CoC to consider the fact that having the upperclassmen present to cheer on the rookies was always part of the event. It was very ... quiet this year. Disappointing.

Upperclassmen costumes must make a comeback next year.

At least it ended in a more ... ah ... traditional fashion. ;o)

Essayons

This entry brought to you by the creative rookies, the Upper Parade Ground, the Webmistress, the Norwich University Corps of Cadets and by viewers like you.

A First in NU History: The Mandatory Sleepthrough

2006-10-30T21:45:00.000-05:00

That is correct, folks. Passdown has been conducted as such.

The insanity:

There is a mandatory sleepthrough and no reveille tomorrow for upperclassmen due to the Halloween Parade.

The attempt at explanation:

There has been bouts of anxiety and panic attacks up in The Bad Place as to the outlandish creative genius that upperclassmen have been known to display during the Halloween Parades of Yore.

The Solution? BAN THEM ALL!

Umm ... right.

Apparently there was a failed attempt at having the CoC (Chain of Command) 'approve' upperclassmen costumes.

"Why would they have to approve upperclassmen costumes? That's just stupid. Unless they're naked or something, but that's not really a costume though," said MY MOM.

OOOOoooo ... my MOM just called you STOOOPID. How'd that one feel?

In all reality, I don't believe I'll ever see this ...

... again in my life.

Ironically enough, this is probably the Tuesday Parade that the most upperclassmen will attend all year. Shame they're not taking attendance.

Pictures to follow tomorrow ... from the parade I'm not allowed to attend via Regimental Order ...

This entry brought to you by the third deck of Goodyear Hall, Halloween Costumes of Yore, the esteemed NUCC CoC, your favorite Webmistress, the Norwich University Corps of Cadets and by viewers like you.

Except for the image linked to college humor, all others were taken with my own camera.

PS: The back of that T-shirt reads: Come to Norwich, Live Forever. ;o)

Increasing the Divide

2006-10-30T07:32:00.000-05:00

Although I have yet to see a memo or piece of written policy, suffice it to say that the ban of service BDUs has been made official through the actions of the NUCC CoC (Chain of Command).

For the past week or so, the latest rumor on the hill has been the true destruction of Service Uniform Tuesdays. One cadet, not even enrolled in ROTC, was marked APOD from the formation he was standing in ... for wearing his service ACUs. This has expanded to include the Coast Guard option cadets, and any uniform with a Reserve Unit or National Guard patch.

Right. It's not like he showed up in a bathrobe (which I've seen). I believe cadets ~~skip~~ miss enough formations without being marked APOD from the ones they actually bother to attend, not to mention for reasons of a policy which, to my knowledge is unpublished and undistributed. If someone could help me find this in writing, I shall gladly rescind the previous comment.

Besides, what is so offensive about a flag patch? What is so threatening about the cadets that took that initiative? What is wrong with cadets that are really in the "service" wearing their "service" uniforms and showing it?

Don't tell me it's for uniformity, because if that's the case you'd better choose one ROTC for the school to keep and pitch the others, since the Marines have their digi's; the Navy, their Khakis; the Air Force, their ~~pajamas~~ flight suits. What brought on this sudden change?

It amazes me. These things should be encouraged, not banned. Is it just me, or does this strike anyone else as backasswards?

This just tells the real soldiers (read as: those wearing service uniforms) that the initiative they took is not important to the Corps. That the training they did does not matter.

As for the cadets without service uniforms to wear ... do you care if those that have them, wear them? My guess would be 'no.' Correct me if I'm wrong. You'd be in Cadet ROTC uniform or Norwich fields. That being said, who does care? Who cares enough ... so much, in fact, as to ban them entirely?

It wasn't a "we're better than you" concept, but a "wear 'em if you got 'em" idea.

Here's some food for thought:

Banning the wear of the uniform does not devalue thier experiences & units to them ... they know what they've gone through ... but it may just have an effect on how they view the Corps. Perhaps that was the desired outcome of the policy?

Keep in mind that every rule, regulation and policy made in any institution makes a statement about that institution itself. The reporting of honor violations, for example, shows that the principles of honor and integrity are valued at Norwich. Not wearing hats in the mess hall or spitting on the UP are enforced because respect is also valued here.

Cadets are not authorized to wear service uniforms other than ROTC cadet uniforms anymore on Tuesdays.

What statement does this make in reference to the institution's views on the service?

You Tell Me!

This entry brought to you by the CoC, yours truly, the Norwich University Corps of Cadets and by viewers like you.

Take Back The UP!

2006-10-26T09:29:00.000-04:00

Say it with Schwag.

This is perhaps the best T-shirt idea I have seen in four years. An absolute steal for $10.

Orders can be placed to raneyw@norwich.edu

If you send them to spittfireda@gmail.com, I will forward them as well.

It's one thing to write your opinions online ... it's another to display them on your chest!

Tell 'em how you really feel.

All images in this entry are not mine at all and were positively outright stolen from Mr. Raney at this location. Thank you, that is all.

This entry brought to you by the letters U, P, yours truly, the Norwich University Corps of Cadets and by viewers like you.

How Dare You ...

2006-10-26T09:06:00.000-04:00

I'd like to thank Stephen Stokes for sending me a very well-written letter concerning attitudes toward non-commissioning members of the Corps of Cadets. Does anyone happen to know a number or percentage of these? I'm certain it's not a small one.

Download it here.

Read it here.

As for the previous posts, Ms. Yasus has said herself,

"I wasn't my choice to come to this school, I sort of had to. But I def. do not want to graduate from this shit hole. Not only do I obviously not fit in here, but I also disagree with the very principles of this hypocritical institution. So fuck all of you and thanks for making my decision easier."

Since Honor and Integrity (those would be the values) are such hard pills to swallow, let's leave her alone, shall we?

This post was brought to you by google, facebook, myself, the Norwich University Corps of Cadets, and by viewers like you.

Letters to the Editor: Reloaded

2006-10-19T23:51:00.000-04:00

FIRST, I'd like to note another response to that infamous letter - this time a four-pager written by an Active Duty Army LTC (haha, go ahead and insult his service time)

Here's the text

Download it here.

Ah, yes ... and I quote (from a public forum on StalkerBook) ...

"Alright you ignorant fucking jarheads. Do not disrespect an amazing human being who is experessing her opinion, I'm pretty sure our CONSITUTION SAYS YOU HAVE THE FREEDOM TO SPEAK. You are all a bunch of jokes, disprecting someone because of their opinion. I cannot believe you ignorant meatheads could ever judge someone you do not even know. You write about how civilians are not held accountable but how come Norwich is phasing out the core and more and more civilians come here every year...

CONTINUED...The only core kids I respect are the ones who are actually joining the military, the rest of you are riding the faggot wave and the only reason you are in the core is so you can tool on little kids because everyone else tooled all over you in high school. NORWICH HERO, HIGH SCHOOL ZERO'S, THE BEST SLOGAN AT NORWICH!!! And wow, you want to talk about ignorant and mature is someone making a blog site to disrespect another human and you are suppose to be our military, whoever started this blog site is a big FUCKIN JOKE AND HAS NO FUCKING LIFE!!

...

First of all, no one cares about what Sam said its about starting a blog to harass a great human being. Two it is spelt core because the core is always trying to be the center of attention...look at this, none of this would have happened if someone didnt start a stupid ass blog to talk shit about another human being, but quess what who started this whole thing...A PERSON IN THE CORPS. And this is directed just to Kelley, if you need the whole corps behind you just to talk to me, then your pathetic."

- Jason Grupp

Oh, and then there was ...

"So survey says you have NOTHING better to do with your lives cause your in the FAKE corps of cadets...you guys are a bunch of fucking faggots for making such a big deal out of this situation...you blew it WAY outta proportion....MOST of you guys are nothing more than a bunch of FAKE and again i say FAKE corps faggots...if you got a problem with her paper or this post from me or Grupp ....Feel FREE to confront me! I would love to discuss this! cause you guys live a SHITTY life if you felt the need to make a blog about this...your guys are shitty faggots....Go into the REAL armed forces...NOT Norwich.....FUCK YOU FAGGOTS!....the kids i like know who they are so dont take offence to this i still love you....anyone who thinks differently.....SUCK A FAT DICK! you FUCKS!"

- Drew Dilley

I felt the need to get some of the civilian feelings out there, since apparently you forgot that NUCC students also have a right to opinions. Perhaps you missed the "M" on the MCV gates, but SUPRISE, you go to a military school as a "traditional" student, so you should not be suprised by anything written in response to a crazy rant like that.

Pleeeeeease. Here was my 2 cents:

"OK a few things from me. Don't think she is so important that I would start a blog site over - it's been up since last year. Second, don't use the word ignorant if you GO here and think that it's spelled "core" - we all know why *YOU* don't submit anything in writing to be published. Third, Slater and I are both enlisted, so don't talk to us about "fake" anything. Fourth, from where YOU'RE sitting, who the hell are you to make assumptions about what *most* people in Iraq think about us being there? I guarantee you that the opposite is true, but I'm sure it felt good for you to make false accusations. Finally, if anyone is physically harrassing her, that's immature, but expressing *our* written opinions is no different from her action, which was a call for attention at best.

And can someone buy Jason Grupp a dictionary for his birthday? It might help him sound more like he has an IQ greater than my fish ... but probably not.

Lastly, don't make this a "Corps v. Civi" thing, because I have had more than a few civilians express their disgust with an opinion like that. Yes, it is two opposing views, but do not for a minute assume that you know what the rest of a student body thinks on an issue (like you think you can assume what deployed soldiers think ... what was that about being ignorant?) based on what dorm they live in. Let them think for themselves."

- Me

Hey guys, YOU wanted the attention. The Alums read this. They're gonna love it.

Honestly, perhaps the Guidon should hire one of you stellar college scholars on as an editor ... "youre" writing skills are ... superb. And, what - with all that Norwich pride oozing from your pores, you'd make a great representative, don't you think? ;o)

This post was brought to you by the LTC, angry civilians, facebook, the Norwich University Corps of Cadets, yours truly and by viewers like you.

Registration is Due

2006-10-19T12:13:00.000-04:00

Here is what landed in our inboxes this morning:

"Officials at Norwich University have learned that one of its newer employees is an unregistered sex offender.

Once this information became known Norwich officials moved promptly to restrict the person's proximity to the student population.

According to Vermont statutes, it is the responsibility of anyone convicted of a sexually-related offense to register within 10 days after either establishing residence in Vermont or crossing into Vermont for employment.

The employee has been placed on indefinite administrative leave pending the results of the police investigation as well as internal inquiry."

Here's the rest of the story on Associate Director Jorge Escamilla.

(note - the two links above go to separate places - the first one to the Times Argus and his apprehension, the second to his Employee Profile here at NU. You may notice that the link is to one of my googlepages; I had to stash it away before NU took it down. See what I do for you?)

Again, the sole purpose of this publication is to get the facts out there and squelch some of the crazy (although creative) versions and interpretations of a rather vague email.

My question is this:

Does Norwich not have the authority to fire its own mistakes without the police having to arrest them first? (then again, that was last year)

On the brighter side, I'd like to extend a sincere Thank You to the university staff for telling us this time. It's always nice to keep your student body informed.

We don't want to be looking over our shoulders when walking the mean streets of the Upper Parade ground and the back alleys of fireroads ...

This entry brought to you by the Times Argus, clic, the VT Herald, yours truly, the Norwich University Corps of Cadets and by viewers like you.

Need I Say More?

2006-10-16T23:25:00.000-04:00

The aforementioned issue of the Norwich University Guidon had another letter to its editor by a Britt[any] Yasus. (page 2 on linked .pdf)

Personally, I was going to leave that one alone due to the outright idiocy of the person writing it. With such childish statements, I figured she'd grow up someday and be embarrassed of her naive, immature assumptions and unfounded accusations all on her own.

Well here's "me being a patriot:"

Hell hath no fury like an angry veteran!

Below is a response from Norwich University's very own returned vet, Sam Slater:

Dear Editor:

You know what really grinds my gears? That erroneous letter to the editor that was posted in October’s issue of The Guidon. Just to recap on what was blindly stated, this obviously confused student spoke about President Bush being a murderer, how 9-11 and Hurricane Katrina were “convenient” to how he and the rest of the administration are trying to brain wash America, and finally her prize winning statement of how the President is using religion to get people to kill others

First off, how dare you even say that President Bush is murdering our troops and Iraqi civilians. If you even had half a clue as to what really happens in Iraq. If you even ever knew what it is like to stand in front of an Iraqi Citizen who is missing one leg because of being brutally tortured by Saddam Hussein, and listening to his entire story while he is crying, then watch him as he struggles to say the one English phrase he knows, “thank you”. I will never forget that man’s story as he referred to the US troops as their Angels sent from heaven.

Lastly, how can you even call yourself a patriot? Where do you even get your definition of patriotism? Last I checked it was a person who loves, supports, and defends his or her own country. You say thank you to the soldiers who are willing to fight for this country. Save it, I don’t want your thank you. You know why? Because I don’t fight for you, I have never fought for you, and I will never fight for you. I fight for true American Patriots that love this country as much as I do. They are the only ones that I lay my life on the line for.

Sam Slater

VTARNG

Ah, the refreshing sound of sanity. I couldn't have said it better myself.

We here at NU Daily ... meaning me, I guess ... are hoping to see this published in the next issue of the ~~spam~~ newspaper that gets tossed in our inboxes.

"Murdering innocent Iraqi civilians"? Riiiight ....

PS - I just have to add ... can someone PLEASE explain to me how ANYONE - president or otherwise - can be responsible for an entire hurricane?! Really, because that's just talented!!

All images in this entry are (c) Sam Slater, as is the letter he wrote ... duh.

Sound Off - Let 'em Have It!

The Day the Music Died

2006-10-13T16:48:00.000-04:00

Parent's Weekend again, and the one thing I cannot let go of is:

What on God's great earth happened to our Regimental Band?!

I've heard marching to the beat of a different drum is a good thing, but not during a parade! Either all of Band Company's talent graduated with last year's class, everyone swapped instruments as a prank, or the new MAJ ... well, I just don't know.

Granted, I don't know a thing about running a marching band - I can't even whistle - but I know what bad sounds like. I especially know what bad sounds like in comparison to GOOD, like it was for the past three years.

Honestly, I'd like to add how much I now appreciate the Band Co's of the past - help out your underclassmen before the Regiment buys a soundtrack.

On the upside, the Parade went smoothly. Kudos to the succinct and articulate speeches. Bravisimo.

That's all I have for today, it's fifteen minutes until Happy Hour!

Technology Fee, huh?

2006-10-11T23:05:00.000-04:00

Alright, listen up.

The network goes down. It happens. Everywhere you go for the rest of your life there will be intermittent 'down' times.

Funny story.

Someone out in New York tripped over the cable labeled "Vermont" and unplugged us out there today for a few hours. It wasn't IT, Norwich, TransVideo, Northfield or even Vermont. Blame some construction worker out in Albany and pick up a book for once in the semester. Deal with the harsh, cruel world without Facebook and AIM.

Another thing.

Stop harassing the folks at the help desk. This MAY come as a surprise for some of you, but being as they are in the IT department and know more than you ...

THEY ALREADY KNOW THE INTERNET IS DOWN.

*gasp*

So think about that the next time you feel the need to "inform them" of your online status change.

Finally ...

For the last time, don't use the line, "It's nice that I pay a technology fee for the internet not to work!"

Why shouldn't you get your money's worth, right? WRONG!

You're a huge dumbass. If you researched your unfounded gripes, you'd find that your extensive technology fee does not go toward the 'internet' or even the lab paper. It funds the extremely overpriced licenses for the software packages that the lab computers have for certain majors. Engineering majors, nursing majors, math majors and architecture majors can explain these to you. MatLab, AutoCad, Mathematica (I see you shuddering!) and yes, even MS Office.

I pay a technology fee, too, and guess what? Not only do I not use any of those programs, I don't even use Windows! (No, I'm not a Mac user either, so stop inviting me to those "Apple Student" groups on StalkerBook) So when you're complaining to me in the repair shop about your "technology fee" - that for all I know your parents pay for - I will most likely strangle you with a CAT5 cable and hang you from the server rack as an example to your followers.

That counter is there to protect you from me; remember that.

Tours for Open House Weekend

2006-10-09T23:34:00.000-04:00

No, no ... I'm not talking about the meandering campus strolls led by the key-toting personell. Absolutely not! I'm talking about the Prestigious Guarding of the Cannon (point and laugh at Alvarez).

A lovely display; the only thing missing was the no vacancy sign!

Very, very nice. It gave all the parents a look at our sweet rifle-holding skills, and the prospective students a glance at what our "dry" campus has in store for their punishments.

Always nice to be prepared.

Shady Mobil Has More Booze Anyway

2006-10-06T07:49:00.000-04:00

I did something rather unusual yesterday.

I read the Guidon.

Now, I try to avoid this bastardized attempt at writing, usually because that many spelling and grammatical errors in one place make my blood pressure spike (sorry guys, there's something to be said for editing). However, being it was a slow day at work and I was out of better ideas, I took a flip through.

What I found on the very first page was enough to make my blood pressure spike far more than a few homonym mix-ups.

The very first "Letter to the Editor" was an outrage. Grab yourself a copy if you need something to piss you off in the morning - don't forget to recycle.

Personally, I will not be purchasing a thing from any Cumberland Farms in the future, as the employee here in Northfield refused to sell to a veteran bearing two forms of Identification, one of them a current military ID.

In reality, that employee was sorely uninformed, because according to Cumberland Farms' Real Policy, as a member of wecard.org - Section 8 quotes,

" ..only the following forms of identification shall be accepted: (a) Driver’s License, (b) State-Issued Identification Card; (c) U.S. Passport; (d) Military Identification Card; and (e) U.S. Immigration Card." (site cited above)

That's irrelevant, however. If Cumberland Farms is that inept at training their employees that they do not accept FEDERAL forms of identification, then that is one company I do not wish to purchse a thing from. Especially a business that gets so much of its clientele from the military and surrounding community.

If you're a facebooker, here's your place to voice your rage, courtesy of Kokonut.

The Verdict is In ...

2006-10-05T09:05:00.000-04:00

Honor Trial for the PX Ranger concludes with Honor Committee seeking the max. See? We do still boot those that lie, cheat, steal and tolerate.

It's in the hands of the Dean now, pending immediate dismissal. Honestly, did anyone expect otherwise for someone walking around falsely double-stacked? Kudos to the Honor Committee for all their hard work.

There are some things money can't buy. For everything else, there's AAFES.