Dean of Students addresses Palmerfest

This is from an e-mail sent out by OU Dean of Students, Ryan Lombardi. Lombardi was present at an information meeting held a couple weeks ago about Palmerfest where student residents of Palmer Street heard from Athens and OU officials about what would and would not be tolerated at Palmerfest. Apparently the meeting did not have the desired effect.

Dear Ohio University Students,

I write today to address the issues that led to the deterioration of Palmerfest this past weekend. I was disappointed to hear about some of the behavior that occurred. Setting fires in the street, throwing projectiles at other attendees and law enforcement, and overturning a vehicle are unacceptable, no matter the circumstance. I realize that it was not all OU students who did this, and that not all OU students who were at Palmerfest were participating in the negative behavior that I've mentioned. Nonetheless, as a member of our community, it is not okay to stand by and let this type of destruction occur. It is all of our responsibility to respect the community in which we live and honor the integrity of our institution.

The university and local community have accepted responsible and appropriate behavior during the spring fests for many years. The behavior that occurred this weekend does not fall into that category. Whether you are a current student, the friend of one, or just an out-of-town visitor, Ohio University does not condone this type of behavior and you will be held accountable for your actions.

I am most bothered to have to write this note to you today because I know that for every one student who engaged in destructive behavior this weekend there are hundreds doing great things at our university. For those of you who share my concern, I challenge you to not accept such actions again. Let's get back on track and finish this year on a positive note.

Sincerely,
Ryan Lombardi
Dean of Students

You acted like jerks. Thanks for proving them right.

I was less than surprised to hear about the happenings of Palmerfest '09 here in Athens, Ohio. What is yearly a day for mass alcohol consumption got way out of hand as thousands of OU students lived up to our less than stellar reputation.

Color me old fashioned, but I'm disgusted by what went on. Setting fires like a bunch of mindless slugs… Assaulting police officers and horses with beer bottles and cans…

Some people will complain about the use of force by Athens and OU Police; I think they would have been justified to use a whole lot more. This was not a case of civil disobedience, or even protest. It was a case of irresponsible, reckless consumption of alcohol gone terribly wrong. There’s a pretty awesome video on YouTube of a mounted officer plowing into a drunken antagonizer.

My heart hurts for how lost so many on this campus clearly are. As deplorable as the events of Palmerfest ’09 were, sin is sin and it shows just how much we all need God’s grace.

The Post's coverage of Palmerfest.