K-ville tradition a 'blight on the land'

Tradition—one definition is “a time-honored practice.”

This letter is not an attempt to put a damper on expression of school spirit or to do away with K-ville, but an opinion of its outward appearance and how it impacts the morale and sense of dignity of Duke’s support staff—and a plea to future tenters to show respect for property and consideration of Duke employees.

The majority of administrators probably don’t get to see K-ville up close, but for those of us who do, here is what we’re subjected to.

Working in the Wilson Recreation Center, between Christmas and spring break, we are privileged to witness firsthand the tradition of K-ville daily, as we walk from Card Gym parking lot to Wilson and back—at best stepping around smelly garbage, wet bedding, cans and other litter—at worst trying to avoid broken glass, vomit, blood, urine, feces—even used condoms.

It seems to grow a little worse each year, with this year being the worst yet. The garbage cans provided are not fully utilized. It is an eyesore with all the trash and litter and must create quite an impression on visitors.

As parents and grandparents, it is scary to see kids living in such deplorable conditions for 6-8 weeks. Is this what an expensive education at an esteemed university comes down to? Is it okay to make a horrendous mess because someone else will clean it up? The employees performing the cleanup should receive premium pay, probably even hazard pay.

We appreciate that basketball is a big part of the Duke experience, and are all in favor of school spirit and team support, but in its present state, K-ville is a blight on the landscape of an otherwise beautiful campus.

Ruth Johnson

Lee Tucker

The authors work in Wilson Recreation Center