I would like to comment on Professor Friedman's letter to The Observer in relation to Irreconcilable Differences? The Waning of the American Jewish Love Affair with Israel by Steven T. Rosenthal.
Professor Friedman's use of language, describing Israel as being "surrounded by savages," can certainly not be considered a catalyst for encouraging some international students to attend the University. Regardless of whether this is his own opinion or not, it will reflect on the University.
It was less than two years ago that President Harrison and Mr. Steve Jeffrey visited the area with the aim of enticing more "savages" to attend UHA. I sincerely hope and trust that the gentlemen did not come back from their visit with a similar impression. In fact, I understand that Mr. Jeffrey is now taking up a new post in one such "savage" country.
If I may suggest, perhaps The Observer should avoid and not publish political matters, especially related to the Middle East conflict, which is a touchy issue for all sides of the conflict.
Thank you,
Mazen M. Dajani
Class of 1986
Amman, Jordan
Welcome from Greeley, Colo. It was a pleasure reading your Winter 2001 issue of The Observer. You publish an outstanding magazine that keeps us informed of the ongoing activities of the faculty, staff, and students at the University of Hartford.
We read with particular interest on page 6 the article titled "Home for the Holidays." The excellent story by Jessica Levine-Pizano discussed the holiday CD Broadway Cares: Home for the Holidays, which included strings players from the Hartt Orchestra, and the efforts of Associate Michael Morris at The Hartt School. The article described the musical contributions of Liza Minnelli and Alan Cumming,
the work of The Hartt String Machine, and engineering of the recording session by music production technology faculty member Justin Kurtz. Bravo!
Another aspect of this incredible CD project also warrants mention. The highly regarded Music Production Technology (MPT) program in The Hartt School used their recording studio facilities to edit and produce numerous tracks on the album. Hartt MPT students Lynette Wilson and April Cech were assistant engineers on numerous tracks and used their skills learned under Professor Scott Metcalfe and Professor Kurtz.
Imagine our parental pride when we purchased the Broadway Cares CD from our local Borders Books & Music store, opened the jewel case, and saw our daughter's name on the list of credits, along with other students from the Music Production Technology program, next to the names of Broadway stars such as Liza Minnelli, Alan Cumming, Christine Ebersole, and Gary Beach. Thank you, Professors Metcalfe and Kurtz, for the opportunities you've given to students in the Music Production Technology program at the University of Hartford. Well done, and congratulations!
Sincerely,
Tom and Grace Cech