Think before you speak

As a dedicated member of N.C. State’s Greek Life, I must say that I was appalled by the inexcusable, unwarranted stereotyping displayed in the column ‘Advice for fans’ on September 18.

I actually agreed with most of the article – it is embarrassing to disrespect your starting quarterback, and I agree that everyone should stay until the end of the game and show some dedication to the team we all supposedly love. You should have just left your article with those two points. Fraternities and sororities have been on this campus for well over 100 years, and we are very proud of our rich traditions.

One of these long-standing traditions has been dressing up and going to football games. Later in the article you stated that football games are not social functions – rather, “it is a time for eating meat, enjoying a frosty beverage and cheering on Wolfpack football.” I’m not sure that I have ever seen a better definition of a social function. Please explain what tailgating is about if it is not for socializing and getting ready to cheer on our beloved Wolfpack?

Fraternities and sororities are without a doubt some of the most school spirited organizations on campus – look at Homecoming week and all of the large tailgates before each game. So it is extremely insulting for you to question our fanhood simply on the way we dress. It is this kind of stereotyping that gives Greek Life an unwarranted negative image.

Brennon Fuquajunior, civil engineering

RBI program should be appreciated

It is disappointing to hear how ungrateful the student newspaper is about the success and change Lt. Potts and his staff has brought to N.C. State tailgating. Each fall, most students look forward to football season regardless of a winning record. It gives students an opportunity to socialize in a way that many schools do not have the benefit of doing.

The RBI program that Lt. Potts and campus police initiated has created an environment that has supported the pre-game social demands of the students. If you believe that $3500 is a waste of money, realize that they are keeping us safe while allowing us to enjoy a big part of the college experience. This is disappointing to hear that students are complaining about how the University is trying to help us out by creating a stronger line of communication and trust – even if it’s as simple as a wristband.

They have been responsive to our demands and we should thank Lt. Potts and his staff for their cooperation. They have done an outstanding job the last couple of years by working with us and not against us.

Scott Stimsonjunior, business administration