Thursday, November 15, 2001

A&M officials openly denounce plans to build off-campus bonfire
By Brandie Liffick
The Battalion

COLLEGE STATION (U-WIRE) Rumors of a possible off-campus Texas A&M University Bonfire built by residents of Hotard Hall were investigated by the Department of Residence Life, said Ronald Sasse, director of Residence Life.

“We have heard various rumors and went to the hall staff,” Sasse said. “They spoke with residents, and came back and told us that there was no such thing going on. We have to trust what they tell us.”

As a result of the 1999 Aggie Bonfire collapse, which killed 11 students and one former student, Texas A&M President Dr. Ray M. Bowen announced that Bonfire would be postponed until November 2002.

“My decision is based on the simple truth,” Bowen said in a press conference in June 2000. “I will do what is best for the University and its students.”

A group composed of both current and former students, Keep The Fire Burning (KTFB), was formed last fall in response to Bowen’s decision. KTFB announced that they were planning an off-campus Bonfire.

University officials, the Student Senate and other student organizations openly denounced the group’s intentions.

“The University will do everything in its power to stop students from taking this course of action,” said Cynthia Lawson, executive director of University Relations, in a released statement.