Bug eating is fun. Especially when you get to watch your friends or complete strangers munch on the crunchy exoskeletons of grasshoppers or crickets. If the thought of the crunch deters your interest or upsets your stomach, there's always the tender mealworm to slurp down.

Purdue will open its annual Bug Bowl on Saturday, which provides not only a means of entertainment, but also the opportunity for many people with insect phobias to learn about insects and overcome their fears.

Even something that sounds as vulgar as a cricket—spitting contest has now demanded international coverage, including the attention of Jay Leno's Tonight Show.

However disgusting this notoriety may seem, it is a good thing for Purdue. The University continues to thrust its name into the national spotlight. From our football and basketball successes, and now the Bug Bowl, Purdue will continue to attract larger numbers of students from around the country.

The educational value of the event is also worthy. Students should come to the event with their little brothers, sisters, nephews and nieces to introduce them to a Purdue ritual that promises to be fun and memorable.