The Saturday before classes, known to students as 801 Day, has become a tradition among Iowa State students. The name originates from the ban on alcohol at fraternities and sororities during rush week at Iowa State, which lifts at 8:01 a.m. the Saturday before the fall semester begins. 801 Day has grown from primarily being a Greek life tradition to one that attracts students and visitors who join in the festivities.
Sgt. Justin Gatewood, who has been with the Iowa State University Police Department (ISUPD) since 2001, noted that 801 Day did not become a major event until four or five years ago, gaining momentum after the cancellation of Veishea as a “new party day.”
In response to the growing popularity and increase of nuisance parties, the city of Ames imposed immediate towing and a fine of $650 for a first offense and $855 for each repeat offense during the weekend.
According to Ames Municipal Code 17.30, a nuisance party is defined as “a social gathering where any of the following occurs: public intoxication or unlawful alcohol-related activities, outdoor urination/defecation, littering or destruction of property, unlawful pedestrian/vehicular traffic or obstruction, unlawful loud noise, fighting, or any conduct that threatens people or property.”
The ride along
“Let’s set the tone early,” said ISUPD Chief Michael Newton at a police officer briefing early Saturday morning. Shortly before 8:01 a.m., police officers left the Armory in bikes, ATVs, golf carts and cars to patrol the Campustown area.
Around 8:30 a.m., the first stop occurred when officers observed a small group walking on Sheldon avenue carrying a case of alcohol. Gatewood and officer Allison Aitchison approached the group and asked for a student’s ID.
After a brief pause, the officers returned the ID, allowing the group to continue. Aitchison explained that she generally looks for individuals who appear to be under the age of 21, have an open container, show furtive movements or seem “very drunk.”
“We’re not out here to ruin people’s day,” Gatewood said. “I went to college here, so I understand. We want to help with safety.”
Gatewood and Aitchison made various other stops throughout the morning, primarily for open containers. If the individuals were over 21, the officers asked them to pour out their drinks and then sent them on their way. However, when students were found to be under the legal drinking age, the officers issued citations.
The result
From 7 a.m. Saturday through 3 a.m. Sunday, 25 citations were given for possession of alcohol under the legal age, including one juvenile referral. Additionally, there were nine arrests for various offenses, such as public intoxication, interference with official acts and operating while intoxicated. Notably, 58.3% of those arrested or cited were not affiliated with Iowa State University.
This year’s 801 Day saw a decrease in alcohol-related citations, dropping from 37 last year to 25. Arrest numbers stayed close, with 13 last year and nine this year.
