Perhaps the article "Caf Crisis?" was written on a bad day. Perhaps it was a result of frustration or little sleep. But to the employees of Bon Appetit, it was much more. It was a slap in the face. It was an insult to their hard work for St. Olaf students. Perhaps the following points bear some consideration.

First, there will be long lines at popular times. We understand that sometimes a schedule only permits eating at certain times of the day, but an 11:30 or 6:00 "lunch rush" or "dinner rush" must be expected. Either deal with it or eat at off-peak times.

Second, keeping the caf open until 3:00 p.m. every day would solve nothing. From 1:15 to 2:00 every day, only 100 students eat. Everyone would continue to eat between 11:30 and 12:00: no problem would be solved! Furthermore, a later lunch closing time would require paying more salaries, which would increase student costs. We assume this action would result in more complaints.

Also, the "Stav Hall Gestapo," Miss Toftness's rudely coined term, deserves much more respect. Take the time to talk to caf employees. You will find most of them to be wonderful people, supporting families and themselves. They work at St. Olaf because they like students and each other. The "Gestapo" simply make sure we take the time to pick up after ourselves. Are we children? Is it so difficult to bus one's tray? The other day, a student shoved one of these 70-year-old men after being asked to bus his tray. Is this the "Gestapo" getting his due?

Bon Appetit did not design this cafeteria. Yes, it is flawed, but what can be done about it now? Are you going to pay to remodel it?

Remember the old cafeteria? Few entrees to choose from and lines all the way down the stairs. This is not a new problem.

Also, remember the transition from the old caf to the new caf? It took time to iron out problems. Now we have a whole new batch of student workers learning the job. Smooth service will take time.

Finally, here's a challenge. Try working in the cafeteria for one shift. Try talking to the employees. And try thinking about how fortunate you are, attending such a wonderful school and eating as much as you need, every day.

Try to find a little perspective.

-Michelle Richards and Nita Chambers are sophomores at St. Olaf College.