Ben Stein featured in Waitt Lecture   By Michelle Delaney and Steven Postolka There are very few self-proclaimed “fat old freaks” that can fill up the Eppley Auditorium, but Ben Stein did it with ease. Even though Stein spoke on a Friday evening, the building was packed with anxious and attentive students and community members. Stein is a well-known actor, humorist, economist, and commentator who has advised such prominent figures as Presidents Nixon and Ford. Since he has dealt with so many high-profile figures, one might wonder what he would have to say to a college campus. The main focus of Stein’s lecture was telling us the ways to ruin our lives. His twenty-six point speech was full of helpful hints to live a better life. While this may seem like a serious and somber topic, Stein managed to keep everything light by using sarcasm and quick wit. After he talked about ways to ruin our lives, he discussed the ways to ruin the country. He addressed many things that are happening right now and need to change. Throughout his entire speech, there was one thing Stein continuously praised. He is proud to be an American and avidly supports our troops. He even explained how one of the people he admires the most is Dale Denton Jr. , his father-in-law, who was an army man with two silver stars for his service and bravery. After Stein spoke, he graciously answered questions the audience had. During this segment, he admitted that–much like us–he had no idea what he was going to do with his life after college. Furthermore, he advised a student to take out college loans rather than use up all of his savings. “It is better to have debt than not to have any savings,” Stein said. Stein also tackled questions dealing with President Obama winning the Nobel Peace Prize, the healthcare issue, the collapse of the dollar, and his own thoughts on President Nixon.. (Oct. 15)     News Home