Editor’s note: the length restriction on forum letters has been waived.Closing parking for Halloween builds wallsThe administration’s decision to limit parking on campus on the night of Halloween is close-minded and misguided. They aim to address the very real concern of student safety and hope to limit both the size and level of good (or evil) spirited fun that will descend upon Hillsborough Street on the 31st. Concerns over student safety should be applauded.However, much like knee-jerk administrative reactions in response to football tailgating, this decision is ultimately unwise and lacks any sort of creativity or leadership. Instead of using a potential boom of foot and vehicular traffic to highlight the progressive and thoughtful planning of students, businesses and local government, the University has decided to build walls aimed to keep outsiders away.It may be that the University doesn’t want to attract people it has no authority over, or that it views out of town visitors, even those from surrounding communities, as more likely to engage in irresponsible behavior. I take the opposite view and feel that all should be welcome any time of the year to visit many of the great establishments on Hillsborough, even if it is Halloween and many others might visit on the same night.Either way, this is a chance to show of the virtues of the University and its ability to work with Raleigh to sponsor a fun event for all people. On top of that, responsible alcohol use remains a prominent issue no matter who is in attendance. It makes absolutely no sense to divert precious police resources to the role of parking lot attendants as Wednesday’s Technician article claimed instead of using them as active patrols along Hillsborough Street itself. Police have a duty to protect all people, including those unaffiliated with the University who still somehow make it to Hillsborough Street. The safety of people on Halloween will be maintained by a strong police presence, not futile attempts to limit access to parking. This creates completely preventable frustration among those who decide to come anyway or happen to forget their student ID. Instead of misusing resources, the University should look to exploit a potentially highly attended event by showing off its own virtues.Patrick EwingN.C. State Alumus 2007Measures will keep Haunted Hike safeWe’re sure you’ve seen the news about Chapel Hill’s intention to limit the annual Halloween party on Franklin Street. The event has grown excessively large, problematic and expensive for the city to handle. We don’t want that problem to become Raleigh’s problem. Last year, we saw many students come out to Hillsborough Street to celebrate Halloween, and we all know how events like this can grow. The City of Raleigh, the University, and Student Government all share the concern that this event could attract large numbers of people from the outside area, causing immense traffic, cleanup and safety problems. Because of that, Raleigh Police are stepping up enforcement efforts along the street this year. They do not see N.C. State students as posing a problem, but are concerned over the potential for crowds similar to Franklin Street. Crime enforcement will be strict and Raleigh Police plan a zero tolerance policy for violations of the law. In addition, any students receiving citations will be referred to the Office of Student Conduct. For the protection of NCSU and its students, some University lots and streets may be closed to those without a valid NCSU ID. Plans for parking and traffic will be announced later this week. The ultimate goal is to work together — the University, Student Government, and the city — to ensure a positive environment for all. Thanks for your consideration, and go Wolfpack! Jay DawkinsStudent Body President Dr. Tom StaffordVice Chancellor for Student AffairsRegarding the volleyball boycottWhile I know nothing about cartooning, to me the cartoon in question being ridiculed by the volleyball team looks like it is being supportive of them in their recent victories.However, regardless of what it is, the team does not need to criticize the student body on any account. I don’t care if it’s Facebook, but looking at the group, most of the members are of the team, with a member starting the group. While the coaches may not support said group or not have Facebook accounts (for whatever reason), they need to stop this.The students of this University support the volleyball team on all accounts, both in sprit and financially, might I remind them. They don’t like us, OK — we don’t have to pay for them to play. I’m sure the athletics department can find better uses for their money.Kyle Boltonjunior, electrical and computer engineering
Campus Forum | October 30
October 27, 2008