Ponies Prance From HAC

Just before February break, one of the Harvey Academic Center labs experienced a change in the art normally produced from students; it was brought to attention that a group of students were downloading My Little Pony material off the Internet and using lab resources to print for personal use.

Harry Mueller, assistant professor in the Visual Arts Department, was unsure what to make of the unusual subject being printed. He admits to having limited knowledge about My Little Pony.

"The problem isn't with the topic; it's that these students printed materials on our lab printers using paper and ink that is strictly used only if those students are in the visual arts department. Our visual arts students pay a lab fee for the privilege of using the printers and associated supplies," said Mueller.

             Labs around campus have a printing quota that pops up for each student when they login so each user is aware and it conserves the waste of multiple prints. The labs in the Visual Arts Department, however, are only open to those students with permission. The resources available are therefore based on lab fees included in the class or tuition.

The individuals responsible for the recent printing have apologized and stated that they were just fans of their childhood memories. Mueller was thankful to now know the reason behind the printing.

"The amount of material used was less than one ream of paper and about $10 worth of ink. To date this situation has stopped and we will continue to monitor the labs. We all have responsibilities to conserve paper and resources so we can keep lab fees to a minimum."

            My Little Pony is a brand of rubber toy ponies that were introduced in the eighties with colorful designs and accessories. To date, there is also a film and television series.

People of all ages are interested in this product. Young children are introduced to the toys of their parent's childhood and some adults remain interested mainly in remembrance of their fun youth times.

There is also another category of fans that involves individuals who call themselves Bronies or "Bro Ponies". It consists of mainly middle-aged men who enjoy the TV series and may follow the show, collect ponies, or meet or blog with others with the same interest.