<p>I was thinking about driving down to columbus to tailgate tomorrow. Will there be a lot a of people there? Will I get beat up wearing my U of M gear or will I be around a lot of Michigan fans? I know the alumnis have their away game tailgates but I don't know much about them. Is anyone else going???</p>
<p>There was a university-wide e-mail a few days ago talking about an alumni sponsored tail-gate. Unless you're going there, there is reasonable worry to fear for your personal safety while in Columbus. Buckeye fans will be drunk and dumber than normal.</p>
<p>We know that it can be uncomfortable being in an opposing team's environment, especially when the stakes are so high. We would like to offer a few suggestions in order to help you stay safe and have a positive experience this weekend:</p>
<p>--Try carpooling to the game; if possible, drive a car with non- Michigan license plates.
--Keep your Michigan gear to a minimum, or wait until you are inside the stadium to display it.
--Stay with a group.
--Know and obey the laws regarding alcohol use.
--If you are of legal age to drink, use alcohol in moderation. Stay in the blue.
--Stay low-key; don't draw unnecessary attention to yourself.
--If verbally harrassed by opposing fans, don't take the bait.
--Avoid High Street in Columbus.</p>
<p>If at any time you feel unsafe, you should call 9-1-1 for assistance. U-M campus police also will be available in Columbus to support our fans. You may call them with non-emergency concerns at (734) 216-9159.</p>
<p>We look forward to a tremendous game on Saturday. Let's help the Wolverines win with spirit and class.</p>
<p>Go Blue!</p>
<p>Sue Eklund, Associate Vice President and Dean of Students
Steve Grafton, President, Alumni Association
Nicole Stallings, MSA President</p>