'Host a party without getting busted' part of city's welcome

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WLFI) - They didn't come with a casserole or a plate of cookies, but hundreds of newly returned Purdue University students were welcomed to the neighborhood Tuesday evening.

About three dozen gold-clad West Lafayette and Purdue officials and students knocked on almost 500 doors in the New Chauncey and Northwestern Heights neighborhoods around campus.  The door hangers contained information on items like parking and recycling.  There's even had a magnet entitled 'How to host a party without getting busted'.

Co-organizer and West Lafayette Grant Administrator Beverly Shaw said it's a good way to help stabilize the neighborhood.

"We hope it makes a difference," Shaw said.  "We really do.  Most people are really surprised that the dean of students or the mayor has shown up to knock at their door.  Our fire chief is here, our police chief is here, so I think it makes a difference."

It's the 13th year for the welcome event, which is traditionally held on the first Tuesday after classes start.