Dear Man of Steel,
Once again, an easy question was not so easy.  Thanks for the brain teaser ... I guess. Each early solution raised more questions, and the answer seemed to change. Smaller? Bigger? The same? The professor from whom I got the final answer wishes to remain anonymous, for some reason.
        My expert (from the Theoretical and Applied Mechanics department) says that the inner diameter of the steel donut, or torus, will increase. This is true only if the donut is of a homogeneous material (i.e., is reasonably constant in makeup) and is not restricted in any way from expanding by external objects or forces. If the material is restricted from expanding naturally if it's in some sort of tight container) stresses will develop in the material and the answer might be different. In general, though, the inner diameter will increase -- the donut's hole will get bigger.

Uncle Ezra   

Dear Disgusted,
I thought the people responsible for the rest rooms you discuss would be most qualified to answer your question, so I sent it to the Department for Engineering and Facilities.  Here is what Henry Doney, the director, had to say:


        "Rest rooms are cleaned daily on the central campus by our custodial staff.  In most cases, washable graffiti is removed fairly promptly.  When repainting is required, it takes longer but receives a reasonable priority, since rest rooms are part of the public areas of the campus.  We do not have any systematic condition review.  We rely on our custodians and building occupants to report problems.  For the central campus academic buildings, facilities problems may be called into Customer Service (255-5322), preferably by the responsible Building Coordinator.  For Residence Life, Dining, and Unions, their staff should be notified, since they are responsible for scheduling their own maintenance.  Fortunately, Cornell is blessed with a relatively graffiti-free campus, unlike many other institutions.  Obviously there will be exceptions, probably where students congregate in great numbers. Please call and let us know where the problem rest rooms are, and we will check them out."  -- Henry Doney
        The message, as usual, seems to be the old squeaky wheel theory. It sounds like you should talk to the building coordinators of the buildings that have especially offensive bathrooms.  Apparently the "higher ups" are either not using those bathrooms or are not reporting conditions.  It's up to you to take action.




        Just as a side note, I found it interesting that your letter asked whether or not "the University" is interested in keeping the restrooms presentable.  It seems to me that the question ought to be asked of the people who leave their marks on the wall.  Could you be placing the responsibility on the wrong individuals?

Uncle Ezra   

Dear BC,
Since my earlier answer, I've discovered that some of the upgrades were indeed replacements, not retrofits. The choice is determined by the general condition of the machine.  If it was replaced, it's because the equipment was pretty tired.  The old equipment then goes to a used equipment refurbisher.
        When CCS sold this sort of equipment to individuals in the past, a lot of unhappy customers resulted because of unreliable disk drives, etc. If you still think you'd like to pursue this on behalf of your store's customers, try contacting the folks in CCS.              Uncle Ezra

Uncle Ezra   

Dear Me,
I hadn't heard about Lifespring, so I called the Mental Health Association at 273-9250.  They have information about all kinds of support and self-help groups. As you mention, Lifespring is offered only in major Metropolitan areas, so the MHA did not have a lot of information on the program.  However, Nancy Rosen of the MHA happened to have read an article about it from the Washington Post Weekend Magazine.
        The article said that Lifespring is a cultish organization founded by one man as a money-making venture. The techniques that the man uses are controversial, but some of them have been updated since the publication of the article.  Apparently, people who go through the training either love it or hate it. Some corporations and businesses have sent their employees there with a certain number of "casualties." Nancy did not have a very positive impression of Lifespring, but suggested that you read the article to decide for yourself. The issue dated from early October 1987.
        Perhaps a better alternative (not to mention cheaper and closer to home) would be some of the local resources. Psychological Services, local agencies, and individuals offer therapy, self help, and support groups. For example, Personal Growth Workshops sponsored by the Dean of Students Office are free and open to the Cornell Community.  The groups work on such issues as self esteem, assertiveness, communication, and interpersonal relationships.  To register, stop by 103 Barnes Hall or call 255-3608. If you would like more information about the PGW's and similar self-help groups, try calling Susie Lerner at the above number or the MHA at 273-9250 for suggestions on programs in the local area. I think you'll find the effort worthwhile and rewarding.     Uncle Ezra

Uncle Ezra   

Dear NK,
Sometimes there's nothing like the direct approach.  "Excuse me. I don't mean to offend you, but your body odor is offensive."  Then he can slink away, punch you in the mouth, or get the hint and wash and/or use deodorant. It's a risk, but he might appreciate being told. Some people have different ideas about acceptable personal hygiene; maybe he isn't aware of the fuss he's causing.
        Other than the direct approach, you'll have to suffer in silence, hold your nose, or move.  He is not likely to change without some incentive, and he can't read your mind.

Uncle Ezra   

Dear Relocated,
If you're a student, tell the Registrar's Office (5-4232); if you're faculty or staff, contact Telecommunications (5-3305).  The CUINFO listings are updated weekly based on data from these departments.

Uncle Ezra   

Dear Would-Be-Valentine,
There's not much time before this Valentine's Day, so you might have to wait for an opportunity to say anything. When you see him again, ask if you can get together to talk.  If he says yes, you'll have your chance.  If he says no, you'll have your answer.
        Will you be my Valentine?

Uncle Ezra   

Dear Dave,
With all the healthy vitamins you can get out of a good serving of vegamite, I don't think your question is trivial at all.  Personally, I go with a balanced diet, plenty of water, and minimal junk food. But for people who want vegamite, Ithaca is not as provincial as you might think.  You can find it within walking distance of campus.  Try Somadhara Bakery and Natural Foods in Dewitt Mall (downtown).  They keep vegamite and many other unusual foods in stock.

Uncle Ezra   

Dear J,
The best place to get information about the J-1 and other such forms is the International Students and Scholars Office in 200 Barnes Hall.  All of the staff are familiar with these forms and can help answer questions about them.
        Since you're in a hurry, I suggest you stop by in person.  The people there are friendly, and I'm sure they can answer these questions.

Uncle Ezra   

Dear CB,
The front-page article of the February 4th ITHACA TIMES was about crime in Ithaca.  The police say crime is up, and they need our help in fighting it. We aren't so idyllic afterall. I feel safe, myself.  But I lock my doors most of the time. Maybe you should read the article.
        Meanwhile, safety IS everybody's responsibility. Let's all contribute to a better Ithaca.

Uncle Ezra