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The Bates Student - September 25, 1998

 
 

Not a puddle anymore

By LAURA HARDESTER
Staff Writer
 

For returning Batesies, a glance in the direction of "the puddle' (first-years you may know the puddle as the all plentiful Lake Andrews) might transport you back to an eara of togas, olive branch wreaths, scholars, and myths as your eyes are averted from the water to the new amphitheater that extends down the slope from Olin.

This past summer, while most Batesies were off campus frolicking in their homelands or far away places, the puddle and surrounding area underwent vast transformations. The most apparent of these changes are the stones, invoking in me some rather godly philosophical thoughts.

With the improvements designed by Bates Alumnus and Aquatic Biologist Scott Williams, the puddle was first drained and stripped of it's twelve inches of sediment. This sediment was composed of phosphates and chemicals deposited years ago from a heating plant that used to be where Olin Arts is now. The banks of the puddle were then rebuilt for more stability, and pipes were installed underneath to prevent overflow. Pizzagalli Construction, the same construction company that is building the new academic building, carried out these improvements and built the amphitheater, which was funded by a donor as a gift to Bates College.

So folks, and first-years...trust me on this, the area looks much

better than it did last year. If you haven't already been, I suggest you

all wander over in that direction of the campus for a gander (new paths also make the area completely handicapp accessible). Or, visit the puddle for a break from the growing rigors of the new academic year. Chat with friends, relax by yourself, question your puddle-inspired philosophical thoughts (me), or do whatever you deem necessary. The new look of the puddle is certainly one of the more beautiful, peaceful places of campus to do any of the above.
 


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Last Modified: September 25, 1998
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