As another weekend begins, University of Mississippi students find themselves without the safety net of Rebel Ride when visiting the Square or other Oxford establishments. This is of particular concern because of Halloween.

As explained in an Oct. 17 announcement from the Office of Student Housing, Rebel Ride services have been indefinitely suspended by the provider, Carbo Limo.

Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Brandi Hephner LeBanc stated in an email last week that the university is working to find long-term solutions.

“The company has suspended its service, so we will give them the courtesy of time before we make any final decisions,” Hephner LeBanc said.

“I believe a big part of the solution is exposing more students to alcohol and other drug education and encouraging responsible behaviors that will serve students throughout their lives.”

While the university has advised students to walk along the well-lit paths of University Avenue or seek transportation through taxis and the like, some students miss the convenience of the service.

Sophomore business major CJ Hyers believes that the lack of Rebel Ride affects on-campus residents more so than students who live in Oxford.

“I really only think it affects people who live on campus, seeing as how many places that are off campus offer a private shuttle for their residents,” Hyers said.

— Grant Beebe