Dear Black and Blue and Slipin' and Slidin',
If we're lucky, Spring has arrived and this shouldn't be a problem much longer.  However, I've seen two feet of snow fall in April, so your concern might still be relevant.  I hope not, but you never know!
        The ordinance applies to all city sidewalks, including those in front of fraternities, sororities, co-ops, and other student housing. If you're feeling brave, you might start by reminding the fraternity of the law and their responsibility.  If you'd rather avoid a confrontation, talk to Randy Stevens, Coordinator of Greek Life, at the Dean of Students Office, 5-6858. He will address the problem with any specific problem fraternities.       Uncle Ezra

Uncle Ezra   

Dear B,
Unfortunately, the colleges at Cornell are not forgiving, at least in this way.  While you may retake a course and have the new grade added to your transcript and figured into your cumulative average, the old grade is not removed.   Every college sets its own policy for this situation, so call your college registrar to get the details. Fortunately, your GPA is not the only indicator of your academic competence, and when you go for a graduate school or job interview, you are likely to be given a chance to explain what happened in the course. If the rest of your transcript shows you to be a conscientious student, one good night's sleep shouldn't hurt you!
        If such a thing should happen again in the future (I trust you've fixed your clock), keep in mind that professors are in general much more forgiving than registrars.  Talking to the professor about what happened as soon as possible after waking up may result in your being able to take a make-up exam -- much easier than making up the whole course.
        There is at least one very good thing that happens as a result of your situation: staying in Ithaca for the summer is wonderful.  In between your macroecon classes, you can play in the sun and the gorges and the lake.  Enjoy!

Uncle Ezra   

Dear DiD,
I'm sorry to hear that you're feeling down and unmotivated.  You certainly are not the only one at Cornell who feels that way sometimes! It appears that you've been feeling down for quite a while, and I'm concerned about you.  I don't know who told you that you must work out personal problems yourself, but I don't agree. Although ultimately only you can change your state of mind, there are lots of people here to help.
        You can find a detailed listing in CUINFO under SOS ADVICE, and there are many specialized services available for problems such as academics, senioritis, or issues involving religion or sexuality. Let me give you a general overview: One excellent service for students feeling "gray" but unsure what to do about it is EARS (255-EARS, 211 WSH).  EARS has trained peer counselors who can help you figure out what is bothering you and what you can do to make it better. They also have extensive referral lists to help you find other services. Suicide Prevention and Crisis Service, 272-1616, also has trained counselors and plenty of referrals, and help is available 24 hours a day. If you're feeling the need for professional help, try calling Psychological Services at 255-5208, where you can get short-term therapy. In addition, EARS counselors and Psych Services therapists can help you find long-term therapy in the Ithaca area if you wish.
        Also, don't forget about your friends and classmates. Many students have felt "gray" at times and are willing to lend a sympathetic ear. Having supportive people around can make the world seem much less bleak, but your friends can't help if they don't know how you're feeling.
        For motivation troubles, try calling or visiting the Learning Skills Center in Olin Hall (5-6310). The people there can help you get motivated again and teach you some tricks for getting your work done more efficiently. Once your schoolwork is going better, your "gray" mood may begin to lift.
        Whatever referrals you decide to follow up on, please do take some action. Letting a problem go unsolved for a long time is not good for your schoolwork, your self-esteem, or your mood.  The help is there, if you look for it.

Uncle Ezra   

Dear Seeking,
That's an easy one!  The virtues of condoms are being realized and nowadays they can be found in many places on and around campus.  For quick convenience, look in any drugstore or in the lower level of Entrepot on North Campus.  These places usually have several different kinds of condoms and sell them in small or large quantities.
        If you want some advice or information along with your purchase, stop by Gannett Health Center.  To purchase condoms there, go to the cashier's office near the back on the main floor.  You will find a display case filled with condoms and various cold and flu remedies. Here you fill in an order form and hand it to the cashier, who will take your money. Next, take the form to the dispensary (just inside the Overnight Unit), where a nurse will give you your order.  If you have any questions, you can ask them at that time. The whole process is very discreet, and the condoms cost 25 cents each or $3.00/dozen; you can buy whatever amount suits you. If you want more information about condoms, birth control, or sexually-transmitted diseases, CGSS (Contraception. Gynecology, and Sexuality Service) is also located at Gannett, on the third floor, and they'll be happy to help.
        Finally, several of the dormitories are now stocking condoms in their vending machines, so you can get buy one as easily as a Hershey Bar.
        Thanks for asking an important question; I'm sure that many people will be interested in the answer.

Uncle Ezra