Alternate paths a must for River Mill residents

As a resident of River Mill and a student on North Campus, the “railroad war” has become an issue of not only convenience, but also safety.

By not being able to cross the tracks, residents must walk up Baldwin Street to cross Thomas Street. There are several issues with this route.

First, the crosswalk is not functional. I have never once seen a signal prompting me to walk.

Also, Thomas Street between Baldwin Street and the rear of the art school has no sidewalks on either side, forcing everyone to cross at the crosswalk that is never ‘OK’ to cross.

Finally, the bus stop in N08, aptly named River Mill, is now inaccessible by sidewalk by the residents of River Mill. The only way to get to the stop is to walk up the shoulder of the road in the bike lane.

It seems as if students and residents of River Mill have been crossing at this “break in the fences” for many years. If the University and the railroad company are going to enforce ticketing now, should they not also provide a safe alternative for pedestrians?

ASHLEY McLENDON
Grad. student, Marietta
Historic Preservation

Online responses to rape story condemning, unfair to women

After reading The Red & Black online Friday, I felt sick to my stomach. Another girl allegedly was raped, and that’s not even the sickening part. I was disgusted at the number of replies implying this is the rape victim’s fault.

To everyone condemning her of drinking too much and blacking out, well I’m sure that’s never happened to any of you. And since when is it OK to hand out alcohol without checking IDs?

Rape is a serious accusation that never should be taken lightly, and claiming she shouldn’t report this so as not to tarnish the reputation of Phi Gamma Delta is unacceptable.

What about the life that was possibly ruined because of this? Women don’t just bounce back from rape – it takes years to move on.

I’m sorry if you are a member of a Greek organization and think you are all unfairly stereotyped, but stereotypes exist for a reason. Sex without consent, no matter how much flirtation and alcohol is involved, is never OK.

And to all of the women posting on The Red & Black’s Web site about this girl taking personal responsibility for her actions that night, you should be ashamed of yourselves for turning your back on your fellow woman.

I agree with former Secretary of State, Madeleine Albright, when she said, “There is a special place in hell for women who don’t help other women.”

JENNIFER RHEA
Senior, Macon
Public Relations