Editorial: Stay safe during fall break

Wednesday, October 14, 2009

On the brink of fall break, students staying in Lawrence should not despair about the cold weather or lack of travel destination, and instead should get involved with the local community. There are many events taking place over the weekend to help students embrace the autumn season and take a relaxing vacation from schoolwork. However, it is important to stay safe on campus and in Lawrence while the majority of students are away.

Yesterday, Marlesa Roney, vice provost for student success, sent all students an e-mail that detailed safety precautions that should especially be taken over school breaks. As described in the e-mail and in the news, the Lawrence Police Department is still investigating an active serial rapist who has been known to attack during school breaks. Staying safe should be a priority, while still having fun. Following the safety guidelines outlined in the e-mail will help students enjoy their fall break while keeping a healthy awareness about their surroundings.

Here are some activities to participate in if staying in Lawrence:

25th Annual Late Night in the Phog

Watch the men’s and women’s basketball teams get pumped up for the coming season with skits and scrimmages. According to the Athletic s Department, Late Night in the Phog will be featured once again by ESPNU’s “Going Mad for Midnight Madness.” Bring non-perishable food items for the department to donate to local food pantries. The doors open at 5:30 p.m. Friday at the newly renovated Allen Fieldhouse, and the event runs from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Schaake’s Pumpkin Patch

This 24-acre pumpkin patch is family-owned and great for a free weekend activity. With farm animals, a hay bale maze and 35 varieties of pumpkins how could you go wrong? The pumpkin patch is open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; go to www.schaakespumpkinpatch.com for driving directions.

State Radio

The band will be at Restore, 701 Connecticut, 3 to 5 p.m. Thursday. Restore sells salvageable materials from torn-down houses to help fund Habitat for Humanity. The band will be playing at the Bottleneck the same night at 7 p.m. The show is $16 per person and part of the proceeds will fund Amnesty International.

Maple Leaf Festival

Travel a quick 15 minutes south of Lawrence to Baldwin City to enjoy the annual Maple Leaf Festival. The parade begins at 11 a.m. Saturday. Other events include a 5K run, country music, train rides, carnival and more. See a schedule of events online at www.mapleleaffestival.com/events.

If nothing else, enjoy a walk around campus as the leaves are changing. But make sure to stay aware of your safety. It is especially important while students are away on break that those staying make safety their first priority. If you are staying in, lock the door. If you are going out, have a friend to walk with. Whatever you do, have a great fall break!

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