Kansas State University

Letter from President Schulz: Have fun, be safe and take care of the K-State family this weekend

Submitted by President Kirk Schulz

Dear K-State students,

Fake Patty's Day this Saturday will be a great opportunity to take a break from the books, release some of that built up stress and have fun. While I encourage students to enjoy themselves — this is a great time in your life — I also want to make sure all of you stay safe, make smart decisions and continue on with a bright future ahead.

Participating in the day's activities is a personal choice and you can have a great time without drinking. Whatever your choice, I encourage you to make good decisions, know your limits and keep the following in mind:

• Drink water and eat regularly.
• Look out for each other. There is safety in numbers and caring for others in the K-State family is part of our values.
• Plan ahead, parking will be limited.
• Call SafeRide at 785-537-6345 between noon and 3 a.m. It's a good idea to save this number to your contacts before going out.
• Be mindful that law violations can mean a significant hit to your finances. For example, a minor in possession can cost up to $750. Reports to police during Fake Patty's Day often involve noise, drinking and parking. Laws will be enforced and tickets will be issued for violators.
• Be aware that gathering on rooftops and drinking in the streets are not allowed in Manhattan. Roofs are not made to support multiple people at one time and can be very dangerous, not to mention illegal. Read a PDF of the city's codes related to Fake Patty's Day.

K-State, along with our partners — the city of Manhattan, the Riley County Police Department, Manhattan Fire Department and local business owners — want you to take care of yourselves, the K-State family and the community that we all share. We should all be proud of K-State's national ranking for great campus and community relations. Help your university maintain this outstanding reputation by showing respect to one another and our community. Please have fun, be safe and make your K-State family proud!

Thank you and be careful 'Cats,

Kirk Schulz
President