Editor,

Living off-campus for the first time last year, I can remember times when I was terrified walking home from a friend's house on the West Side. I can remember calling a cab because I was in severe pain and it was raining and I was not permitted to take CatCab to the dentist. I began to suspect that these were the perks of living off-campus. I felt that the university didn't feel off-campus students deserved the same right to safety that on-campus students did.

It wasn't until I read the article "Campus escort improves service," (Sept.29) that I realized my feelings were not imagined. How ludicrous that the Ohio University Police Department would insinuate that because I chose not to live in the residence halls my safety is not important!

While I appreciate that the Campus Escort system has improved, I don't think it can be a better program until they get the resources needed to help ALL students. Off-campus students are already dealing with bills and slumlords; the last thing we need to worry about is not feeling safe in our own backyards.

Laura J. Richards

lr134294

After reading Mr. Harmison's letter regarding emergency contraception, "Personal responsibility" (Oct. 1), it was clear to me that he failed to consider a few very important facts.

To imply that premarital sex is wrong and should cease to exist is absurd to begin with, but to say that emergency contraceptives are wrong is just plain ludicrous. Recognizing that one is not ready to be a parent is responsibility; it would be irresponsible to bring an unwanted child into the world. Furthermore, even in marital relationships, unwanted pregnancies do occur, and there should be options available.

Finally, what about rape victims? Mr. Harmison, think long and hard about how you would feel if your girlfriend or wife were raped before you try to make a decision for all women. Part of what makes this country great is that women have a choice.

Shanda Behrens

sb781396