In the editors’ opinion on Friday, Oct. 5th, the writer(s) objected to the idea of the Residence Halls being forced to be smoke-free. They said that students had several options on where to live, including a smoke-free house. They said that a student should be able to engage in a legal activity in the privacy of their room. They said a ban beginning Spring 2002 didn’t provide enough time to find housing for smokers. They also stated that “each person needs to learn to live in this community” and “students are expected to use common sense, courtesy and judgement when living on campus.”

Do you know how much choice freshmen have in where they live? They pretty much get put wherever they fit and if possible, their preferences are considered. There are still two girls living in my floor’s den. And even if you can get on a smoke-free floor, do you know how “smoke free” that floor is? I lived on one for two years. Often, the smoke from the floor below comes up and in the window.

Although it may be completely legal to do in many places, the rules here are somewhat more restrictive. You can’t have a pet or run a business out of your dorm room. And girls and boys can’t sleep in the same room.

Okay, now on to the apartment issue. In case you haven’t been listening to the radio this year, there are plenty of apartments still available. They’re still advertising.

Now for the points you made. You said to learn to live with your community and be courteous.

Does that idea not apply to smokers? When someone’s being too noisy, you one-ring them and they’re supposed to turn down the music. Can I do the same and you’ll make the smell disappear?

So to the Daily, would you please consider both sides of an opinion instead of just ignoring the opposing one?

And would you please not be disrespectful by referring to “dorm rats.”

Jon Hand

Senior

Construction engineering