Friday, March 30, 2012 Print Edition by Collegiate Times

Friday, March 30, 2012

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COLLEGIATETIMES 108th year, issue 39

News, page 5

People & Clubs, page 8

Opinions, page 3

Sports, page 7

Study Break, page 4

Big Event narrows scope of service PRISCILLA ALVAREZ news staff writer Virginia Tech students volunteering in the Big Event will aid former university President Paul Torgersen in his springcleaning efforts Saturday. Torgersen is among the many Blacksburg and Christiansburg residents who will welcome Big Event volunteers to their homes Saturday to perform yard work and home improvement tasks. While university personnel and elderly town residents are some of those scheduled to receive help from nearly 7,000 students participating in the annual community service project, homes of many Montgomery County residents living below the poverty line will go untouched. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than 22 percent of the county’s residents are living in poverty. These numbers far surpass Virginia’s overall poverty level, which is about 10 percent. Tech’s SGA started the Big Event in 2002 as a thank you to the community. Every year, students complete community service projects for people living in the surrounding area. Many of these projects include yard work, such as raking, mulching flowerbeds and occasionally cleaning windows. “This event gives a chance for students to get out to the community and build a relationship with them,” said Neil Allerton, co-director of the Big Event — which is now its own entity, separate from the SGA. Anuj Bagai, the event’s other co-director, explained the project works on a request system. The most common way to sign up is through the group’s website, but request forms are also sent in Blacksburg and Christiansburg water bills. He

said applications for the event are not evaluated based on socioeconomic status. In essence, community members have to request projects to receive help. This year, the staff reached out to the Town of Blacksburg and Town of Christiansburg, as well as local schools and churches to remind them of the Big Event. Goodwill Industries of the Valley, a local charity, saw a flier advertising the Big Event and applied for help with a project, said Sarah Stephens, volunteer coordinator of Goodwill. Students will be scraping, prepping and repainting a trailer that serves as a Blacksburg donation box for the group — which aids unemployed and disadvantaged residents of southwest Virginia. Despite that group’s reach, the Big Event will only be aiding in its Blacksburg operation. This year, for the first time in the Big Event’s history, it is geographically limited. “Normally, it was anywhere in the New River Valley. Now, we’ve constricted it to Blacksburg and Christiansburg, roughly a 15-mile radius around campus, so we’re reaching those who we more so directly impact,” Bagai said. Over the last two or three years, the staff noticed issues with projects at least an hour away, Allerton said. Sometimes volunteers would be delayed or lack necessary tools and it would take longer to get the project done. “With the amount of resources we have and the way the economy is going, we didn’t like going to projects that far away,” Allerton said. Senior Liz Tiblin, who participated in the Big Event in the past, approved of constricting the area. “I remember looking at projsee BIG EVENT / page ﬁve

FILE 2011 / SPPS

Students volunteer at the 2011 Big Event. This year, volunteers will be providing their services to people in Blacksburg and Christiansburg.

Arts center makes progress CODY OWENS news reporter President Charles Steger was recently found writing on university property. On Wednesday and Thursday, two steel beams, which will be placed in the new Center for the Arts, were present outside of Shultz Dining Hall to be signed by community members. Steger was present Wednesday morning to add his signature to the crowd of Sharpiewritten names. Ruth Waalkes, the executive director of the Center for the Arts, said Steger has been closely involved with the arts programs on campus since he took office in 2000. “There has been conversation for many, many years about developing an art center like this,” Waalkes said. “In his inaugural address, he put forward the idea of increasing the presence of the arts here on campus and making sure we can provide arts and cultural opportunities for students at Virginia Tech.” The center incorporates into the master plan a renovation of downtown Blacksburg. Blacksburg mayor Ron Rordam stated that when the downtown plans where first mapped out, the concept of an art district came up. He hoped it would bolster the quality of life for residents and bring visitors to the town. The genesis of the center as it is today emerged in 2005 when Minnis Ridenour — a current senior fellow for resource development — launched the Arts Initiative Steering Committee. In addition to raising project funds from private donors, Ridenour brought in Waalkes from the University of Maryland. Waalkes served as director of artistic initiatives at Maryland’s Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center and was also hired before it opened. She looks forward to bringing Tech’s newest arts project to life. “We will be doing programming where we will be presenting performing artists and touring artists,” Waalkes said. “We’ll have people from the arts, as well as from engineering and science who are working on collaborative projects there.” The center will encompass the current Shultz Hall and incorporate several new structures being built around it. The building will include a 1,260-square-foot performance

Metzler-Childs details released NICK CAFFERKY news editor

CJ YUNGER / SPPS

PAUL KURLAK / SPPS

(Above) Ruth Waalkes, Charles Steger and Minnis Ridenour talk after signing the steel I-beams (below) to be used in building the center. hall holding 1,300 seats, two visual arts galleries and several studios to be used for interdisciplinary projects. The studios will also be utilized by the Institute for Creativity, Arts and Technology, a university-level research institute that heads projects combining the arts, technology and education. The state provided $27 million, largely for research done by ICAT, such as their work with K-12 educators. The university has put forward $38 million in support of the center, while $28 million is being raised from donors to fund the remainder of the budget. Fundraising efforts include the opportunity for donors to have portions of the center named after themselves or loved ones. The

theater, the orchestra pit and the amphitheater have already been named, while the courtyard, the backstage suite and the balcony boxes have yet to receive names. The center itself will be named after a donor. The creative idea of signing the final beams came from the construction company building the center. Scott Maeger, senior superintendent with Holder Construction, said this is a major accomplishment of finishing a project. “It’s a tradition that you do on any structurally steel building,” Maeger said. “It’s called a “topping-out” beam; it’s the last beam that goes in place and it recognizes all the work you put in the building.” see CENTER / page ﬁve

The Montgomery County Sheriff ’s Office has finally released details surrounding the shooting of both David Metzler and Heidi Childs — namely that it has DNA evidence. Metzler and Childs were killed in the parking lot of Caldwell Fields on Aug. 26, 2009 between 8:25 p.m. and 10 p.m. and very little has been known about the circumstances until now. Both victims were shot with what has now been identified as a .30-caliber rifle at which point the killer stole Childs’ purse. The murder task force is still attempting to recover the purse, which included a silver Motorola Razr cell phone, a silver Sony Cybershot camera, a Virginia Tech lanyard, and Childs’ credit card and Hokie Passport.

CHILDS, METZLER / FILE

Road. Those vehicles are: a green sedan (possibly a Taurus or Intrepid); a dark blue Dodge Caravan; a dark colored, older model van or minivan parked at Caldwell Fields after dark; a red or red/white Dodge pick-up with dual exhausts and oversized tires and tinted windows; and a gray or cream colored Pontiac Bonneville. Currently, investigators are focusing their efforts on collecting DNA from We have DNA evidence. samples residents and We are actively pursu- others that frethe area ing you, we will not rest quent around Caldwell until you are appre- Fields for elimination purposes. hended.” To the killer, Sheriff Tommy Tommy Whitt, Whitt had just Montgomery County Sheriff, to one thing to say. “We have DNA the killer evidence,” he The task force is also look- said. “We are actively puring for several vehicles that suing you, we will not rest might have seen the killer until you are apprehended.” fleeing from the scene, as If you have information many people were travel- pertaining to the investigaing to and from church tion, contact the task force services on Craig Creek at 540-382-6900.

Community marches to stop violence GINA PATTERSON news staff wrter Virginia Tech held its 23rd annual Take Back The Night event last night, as the community paid tribute to those affected by violence and rape. The event — which consisted of a rally and candlelight march — was held by Womanspace, a Tech organization that promotes awareness against women’s abuse. “This is an issue that affects all of us,” said Alyssa Seidorf, co-coordinator of Take Back The Night. “One in five women are raped in their lifetime, and 25 percent are assaulted in there four years at college. It’s here, it affects all of us. It’s something that we need to talk about and stop.” There were multiple speakers present who discussed personal stories regarding sexual abuse, including Gil Harrington, mother of Morgan Harrington. Morgan was a Tech student who went missing on Oct. 17, 2009, when she was in Charlottesville, Va. Her remains were found on Jan. 26, 2010. “If it could happen to Morgan it could happen to anyone,” Gil said. “Tonight is a way to get the message out and to inform people so they are alert and aware.” Womanspace began its efforts to raise awareness against abuse earlier in the week through its Clothesline Project. Hundreds of T-shirts, which varied in color based on different forms of abuse, were hung on a clothesline on the Drillfield Tuesday. “I think it is very difficult to look at the line and to look at the individual shirts on the line. The stories are horrific,” said Susan Anderson, Womanspace faculty advisor. There were also multiple sponsoring organizations present at the event to show their support. “We wholeheartedly support this organization and what they are about,” said Laura Schneider, president and co-founder of Help Save The Next Girl, an organization made in honor of Morgan. “Morgan actually went to Take Back the Night — she was proactive, and it still happened to her.” In addition, The Raft Crisis Hotline was there to show support. “We get a lot of calls from people who have been abused, particularly women,” said Brittany Mabry, manager of The Raft Crisis Hotline.

march 30, 2012 COLLEGIATETIMES

Rally protests violence against women PHOTOS BY BRAD KLODOWSKI | SPPS

Justin Graves Public Editor

53rd Annual International Week Come and enjoy a week of celebration and learning with Delicious Food, Important Dialogue, Music, and Entertainment! Friday, March 30th | 6:30pm | Torgersen Hall 1060 “In the Greek Crisis, Debt is a Lesser Problem” Professor Yannis Ioannides Saturday, March 31st | 11am - 4pm | College Ave 53rd Annual International Street Fair Parade of Nations at Big Event | 9am | Drill Field Tuesday, April 3rd | 12pm-1:30pm | Cranwell International Center Conversations with International Women: Perspectives at VT Zumba around the world | 5:30pm | Single Gym, McComas Tuesday, April 3rd | 7pm | GLC Auditorium Global Water Issues Forum Wednesday April 4th | 11am-4pm | Drillfield Positivity Day Eyewitness Gaza: Movie and Discussion with the Producer 7pm | Colonial Hall, Squires Saturday, April 7th | 6:30pm | GLC Auditorium African Students Association Show Sunday, April 15th World Cup Soccer Tournament

Presented by: Council of International Student Organization (CISO) Cranwell International Center In Association with: The Hellenic Student Association, The Women’s Center, Student Centers and Activities, African Students Association, Students for Peace & Justice in Palestine, Leadership Tech, VT Athletics, VT Recreational Sports

For more information visit: www.ciso.org.vt.edu

CORRECTIONS

The 23rd annual Take Back The Night rally was held Thursday night on the Drillfield. Attendees listened to speakers who helped protest violence against women and promote understanding of how and why that violence could occur. Participants then marched around campus and downtown Blacksburg, chanting slogans to help eradicate violence against women. Virginia Tech’s Womanspace hosted the event, which occurs annually.

In "Presidential potential: SGA candidates talk student relations," (CT – Mar. 22) the answers given by Waddell and Dorph were switched for the question: If elected as SGA president next year, what would you like to see accomplished at Tech during your term? Also, in “Heel-ing tumors,” (CT – Mar. 22) the term ‘histopathical’ was meant to be histopathological.” Further, Garcia is the sole performer of the therapeutic planning. Finally, in “Roe v. Wade attorney speaks on campus,” (CT – Mar. 28) Porter was misquoted. She actually said that “Progressives in Virginia are upset because we just look like we’re the ones waging the war on women.” The Collegiate Times regrets these errors.

editors: scott masselli, sean simons opinionseditor@collegiatetimes.com/ 540.231.9865

opinions

march 30, 2012 COLLEGIATETIMES

Our Views Big Event fails to realize service potential [staff editorial]

Virginia Tech’s Big Event community service project prepares to deploy thousands of students, faculty and staff members out into Blacksburg and Christiansburg, its stated mission is to say “Thank you.” The event, which is geographically limited to the two towns for the first time, operates by taking service requests from local residents and then sending teams of students to perform the request. Most projects consist of yard maintenance or some other form of spring-cleaning. And while the gracious message to Blacksburg residents is admirable, we ask why the event limits its potential impact

when so many students participate hoping to fulfill the university’s ubiquitous motto. Surely the service that nearly 7,000 spirited college students can provide could leave a more lasting legacy if the event had higher ambitions. Blacksburg and Christiansburg are affluent towns in a county riddled by poverty levels that dwarf the state average. Performing home improvement tasks for those who lack the means to do so would be a vast improvement over tidying the yard of university employees with pensions and benefit plans. We understand the challenges that organizing such a large project presents — coordinating the necessary equipment

and personnel for each task is undoubtedly daunting. The current system of taking community requests for work could seemingly operate on a larger scale, or at least expand into the less fortunate regions of Montgomery County. There is no need to eliminate the service for Blacksburg and Christiansburg residents, some of whom certainly benefit from the assistance. But why not offer assistance to those most in need of it? Thanking local residents is a nice sentiment, but is ultimately appears to be more about improving the university’s relationship with the area than improving the lives of others.

We don’t believe the event’s intentions are misplaced, but perhaps it is failing to harness the full power it wields. The project has an opportunity to reach out to a large population of impoverished people who live just outside our town limits, but chooses to focus on relations with town citizens — many of whom are university employees. The Big Event is a triumph for becoming one of the largest university service projects in the nation, but we believe it should channel that enthusiasm into aid for local citizens who could truly use the help. The editorial board is comprised of the editors of the Collegiate Times.

The Collegiate Times is an independent student-run newspaper serving the Virginia Tech community since 1903 Collegiate Times Editorial Staff Editor in Chief: Zach Crizer Managing Editor: Lindsey Brookbank Design Editors: Danielle Buynak, Victoria Zigadlo Public Editor: Justin Graves Web Editor: Sarah Watson News Editors: Nick Cafferky, Michelle Sutherland News Reporters: Josh Higgins, Cody Owens, Erin Chapman News Staff Writers: Priscila Alvarez, Abby Harris, Gina Paterson, Ashley Seagar Features Editors: Chelsea Gunter, Patrick Murphy Features Reporters: Nick Smirniotopoulos Features Staff Writers: Courtney Baker, Torie Deible, Dane Harrington, Kevin McAleese, Andrew Reily Opinions Editors: Scott Masselli, Sean Simons Sports Editors: Matt Jones, Zach Mariner Sports Reporters: Michael Bealey, Josh Parcell Sports Staff Writers: Eric Avassi, Zander Baylis, Alyssa Bedrosian, Cody Elliott, Taylor Hay, Alex Koma, Ashleigh Lanza, Brian Marcolini Enterprise Team Editor: Liana Bayne Public Information Director: Dishu Maheshwari Training Director: Kelsey Heiter Copy Chief: Spenser Snarr Copy Editors: Nora McGann, Luther Shell Layout Designers: Bethany Melson, Alicia Tillman, Tanja Vogel Online Director: Alex Rhea Collegiate Times Business Staff Business Manager: Philipp Kotlaba Student Publications Photo Staff Director of Photography: Paul Kurlak Lab Manager: Austen Meredith

MCT CAMPUS

Health care act brings Obamacare should be America up to speed dismissed by justices O

ver the course of three days this week, the United States Supreme Court heard arguments concerning the constitutional implications of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. As it stands, the bill is the greatest achievement in domestic policy for the Obama administration and has served as the catalyst for a great deal of the criticism wrought against the president. In question were three distinct issues — the first being whether the bill could be brought before the court since it has not yet gone into effect; the second concerning the individual mandate; and the third regarding the expansion of Medicaid. There is little doubt in my mind that the justices will vote almost unanimously against the first question pertaining to whether the bill could be brought before the court. The question stands upon a rather obscure 1867 law, which requires a tax to be in effect before it can be challenged in court. But as several of the justices pointed out to Solicitor General Donald Verrilli, this act cannot really be considered a “tax,” especially when the Medicaid question being considered is one in which the federal government is giving the states — in the words of Justice Kagan — “a boatload of money.” Although I understand why Verrilli brought this question to the court, it is essentially one that no one wants the court to vote in favor of, since doing so would only prolong the debate over Obama’s health care bill, which is something neither Republicans nor Democrats want. The second and third questions are the truly important — regarding the most popular attacks against the health care act. With regard to the individual mandate, I have a difficult time thinking that the court would not declare it unconstitutional. Although I do not necessarily think Justice Antonin Scalia’s sarcastic “broccoli” attack is justified, the justices certainly seem susceptible to the notion that this extension of congressional authority sets a dangerous precedent. With regard to the third question, I feel the court will be closely split, and I cannot make any serious predictions. The four liberal justices lead by Elena Kagan did a wonderful job defending the government against Paul Clementi’s attack (better than Verrilli did), and Chief Justice Roberts even seemed to sympathize with the liberal argument at times. But the more conservative elements of the court (especially Scalia and Samuel Alito) who hold strong allegiance to the

Ninth and 10th amendments will most certainly feel the provision is a dangerous precedent for state’s rights. In my position as the Democratic columnist for this paper, I feel it is my duty to defend the principles of the Democratic Party and not necessarily the policies of its leaders. As a result, my first allegiance with regard to health care is to defend a serious and beneficial overhaul of the health care system that ensures every individual in this nation receives high quality health care for free. Although I recognize Obama’s health care act is probably the best this nation’s government could do right now, I cannot in good conscience defend it absolutely. Although I do not find the Medicaid expansion to be any serious threat to the ninth and 10th amendments (as Roberts said, states gave up their sovereignty decades ago by accepting federal funding), I do agree with Clementi that the individual mandate is unconstitutional. In a best case scenario, the ability of Congress to force individuals to purchase health care sets a dangerous precedent for future acts. At its worst, it amounts to Scalia’s “broccoli” argument. Either way, the individual mandate is dangerous constitutionally and perhaps outright offensive to the spirit of congressional limitations. I understand removing the individual mandate would essentially make Obama’s health care reform act impotent on most levels because its fiscal rationality is dependent upon everyone in the nation having health insurance. But as a believer in our Constitution, I cannot defend it in good faith. For these reasons, I believe this nation needs a true health care reform and not the Frankenstein-like monstrosity our government has given us. Though I have sympathy for the fact that Obama invested so much of his political capital into an act that came out being the best he could do — given the Republican’s constant stonewalling and blatantly offensive tactics — I cannot help but be frustrated with what he wrought us. The nation needs to join the ranks of the rest of the developed world and progress into the 21st century as a country that recognizes health care as being an essential right of citizenship, not the result of hope in having a good job.

JASON CAMPBELL -regular columnist -junior -philosophy major

his week, the United States Supreme Court began hearing the case against President Obama’s signature piece of legislation, The Affordable Care Act — more commonly known as Obamacare. Several news outlets have been reporting it is very likely the court will strike down the law. The Los Angeles Times, for instance, ran a story headlined “Justices poised to strike down entire health care law.” Personally, I would rather place a bet on Michael Moore’s next meal than try and guess what the nine justices sitting on the Supreme Court are going to do, but here are a few reasons why the law should be ruled unconstitutional. On Tuesday, the court heard arguments on the individual mandate, which requires all Americans to purchase health insurance or pay a fine. I fail to see where the Constitution gives Congress the power to require citizens to purchase a good or service. Before supporters of this law begin arguing that the Heritage Foundation and Newt Gingrich supported the individual mandate before they were against it, let us not forget that the president was against it before he was for it. During the 2008 primaries, then-candidate Obama campaigned hard against Hilary Clinton’s idea of an individual mandate. He even went as far to say it would be like trying to cure homelessness by ordering people to buy a home. Good point Mr. President. I agree. So, why the change of heart? The individual mandate has become so unpopular that even Deputy White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest referred to it as the “individual responsibility” clause. There is also the issue of a dangerous precedent being set if the individual mandate is upheld. Congress has already told people they are required by law to purchase health insurance, but where does that power end? Some justices asked if the government could also require Americans to exercise, eat broccoli or even buy cars with certain safety standards to help out the health care market. The Obama administration has argued repeatedly this would not be the case. However, when has the government not jumped on an opportunity to grab more power? Even Republicans have done it in the past. The federal government being able to legally compel individuals to purchase a good or service is something I would prefer not to live under. Finally, there is the matter of whether the rest of the law can stand without the individual mandate. That is, if the Supreme Court rules the individual mandate uncon-

stitutional, must it also strike down the entire bill, or can the rest of it stand? I have two arguments to make on this front. First, if the court rules the individual mandate unconstitutional but allows certain other parts of the law to stand, it is exceeding its authority as a judiciary body. Doing this would mean the court is acting as a law-making body, which is the job of Congress. The Supreme Court has the authority to rule on the constitutionality of laws passed by Congressed and signed by the president, but it does not have the authority to make laws. Essentially, picking certain parts of the law that can stand is creating its own version of the law. The Constitution created a government where elected representatives would create the laws, and not unelected officials. Finally, consider that the Democrats, in writing this bill, did not include a severability clause that would allow the rest of the bill to stand without the individual mandate. Some have argued this was oversight on behalf of the authors of the bill, and some have argued it was initially included but then taken out before the bill’s final passage. We probably will never know for sure because the Democrats in Congress wrote the majority of the bill behind closed doors. Nevertheless, the fact that the severability clause does not exist creates a law that cannot exist without the individual mandate. Clearly it was the Democrats’ philosophy that the individual mandate is required for the survival of this entire law. Had they believed this law could stand without the mandate, a severability clause would have been included somewhere in those 2,700 pages. I do believe the health care system in this country needs some work. It isn’t perfect. I don’t believe, however, this law is the way to do it. Requiring Americans to purchase health insurance is unconstitutional because Congress was overreaching its powers delegated to it by the Commerce Clause. Also, because there is no severability clause, the rest of the law cannot stand without the mandate. My hope is that the Supreme Court sees this, strikes down the entire law and gives the decision-making ability for health-related issues back to the American people.

MATTHEW HURT -regular columnist -junior -political science major

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march 30, 2012

Regular Edition Today’s Birthday Horoscope: The more you can pay down debt and save this year, the quicker you can make those inspiring changes. With both Uranus and the Sun in Aries, you’re motivated for swift action. Major life changes can have far-reaching impacts. Research your options, and get advice from trusted friends.

Piled Higher and Deeper by Jorge Cham 3

9 5

7 1

6 8 9 5 8 7 1 6 9 1 2 5 5 1 6 4 2 1 4

XKCD by Randell Munroe

This could be you . . .

Crossword

want your comics featured in the collegiate times?

submit them to: studybreak@collegemedia.com

Week ending March 23, 2012

Top tracks

( ) Last week’s ranking in top five

We are Young (Feat. Janelle Moneae) • Fun

(1) 1

Glad You Came • The Wanted

(3) 2

Stronger (What

(5) 3

Doesn’t Kill You)

• Kelly Clarkson

Set Fire to the Rain • Adele

(2) 5

Somebody That I Used to Know • Gotye

word

WORDSEARCH: Cookies Locate the list of words in the word bank in the letter grid. O

W K

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W O

WORD BANK 1Chocolate Chip 2 Sugar 3 Peanut Butter 4 Snickerdoodle 5 Oatmeal Raisin 6 Molasses 7 Mocha 8 Black and White 9 Snowball 10 Rumball 11 Shortbread 12 Macaroon 13 Macadamia 14 Meringue 15 Florentines 16 Gingerbread 17 Cocount 18 Toffee

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news

march 30, 2012 COLLEGIATETIMES

Big Event: Students help local residents from page one

ects and seeing how far away they were and not being sure about transportation,” Tiblin, a chemical engineering major, said. “This way, we can get to know the immediate area.” Restricting the event to Blacksburg and Christiansburg has not affected the number of projects, which currently stands at 990 for this year. “As the event grows, we’re able to get close to the numbers that we want without branching out to those distant communities that we don’t interact with as closely,” Allerton said. The limitations implemented by the Big Event have so far prohibited volunteers from offering assistance to residents living in poverty. “I’m surprised to hear our former president is receiving help because I’m sure he’s capable

of hiring people,” Tiblin said. “Simply fixing a yard for someone living in poverty could change their outlook.” Other local leaders such as Mayor Ron Rordam also received help in previous years. Communication professor Sam Riley said he has requested volunteers in three past events and appreciates the students’ help. “It’s especially nice for older people who simply don’t have enough stamina to do heavy work,” Riley said. Bagai said the Big Event’s continued growth could allow for expansion in the future. “It leaves the door open for future Big Event leaders to explore different avenues on trying to help the community in different ways versus the regular ones we’ve done,” he said. Check-in for the Big Event will take place this Saturday at 9 a.m. This will be the first year FILE 2011 / SPPS students can register the day of Student volunteers help restore a farm at last year’s Big Event. to volunteer.

Center: Community signs beams from page one

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it. Susanna Bradley, a sophomore industrial design student and member of the Corps of Cadets, expressed ambivalent feelings toward the end of Shultz. “I would have preferred to see something else come up here since it is right next to the Cadet center of campus,” Bradley said. “I think it’s good they are making progress for the performing arts people, but perhaps the location should have been in a different place.” The Corps uses Shultz for its dining and programming needs, including group meals four nights a week. Bradley said many people will miss Shultz’s breakfast menu. However, the addition of the Turner Street dining hall is planned to alleviate many of these concerns. The center is one of many construction projects that have been planned for awhile and will soon come to fruition. “(The center) is pretty important for Virginia Tech, and I know for many people in the PAUL KURLAK / SPPS community it’s been a long-time Minnis Ridenour, senior fellow for resource development and chaircoming,” Waalkes said. “We’re man of the Arts Initiative Steering Committee, signs an l-beam. very proud of the progress.”

what you’re saying On First Lady Michelle Obama speaking at commencement

Anonymous: I am so excited that Michelle Obama will speak at our 2012 graduation! That is awesome! Looking forward to hearing from Mark Warner, too! Ben Tweedy: Really VT, really? We couldn’t do

any better than this? Give me five minutes and five dollars to spend and I could get somebody better to speak at commencement. I’m really glad I’m graduating in December.

Anonymous: We, the people, are ready for Ron Paul. He has stayed the course, and he is the only one who has answers and a plan for restoring of our Country and our liberty. Anonymous: Apparently she’s coming because “she was inspired by the resilience of the student body and community coming together to support each other during difficult times.” I don’t know about everyone else, but I personally do not want my graduation speaker to talk about all of the difficult times we’ve had. Our class wasn’t even here in 2007. I’m so tired of our school being known for the tragedy. We are an amazing community and we do great things (Big Event, Relay, ect.) but time and time again we are referred to as “that school with the shootings” in the media and by people who have never even been here. All politics aside, I think we can all agree that we would rather have a graduation speech focusing on our accomplishments, the future, and all of the wonderful aspects of Virginia Tech that make us love it so much. JeffieM: For the first time, I’m really proud of my

University.

Seriously: This comment must be made in jest. Surely one cannot say the proudest moment is to have someone speak at graduation.VPI has been around for 140 years, has had hundreds of thousands of graduates doing really important work, Medal of Honor recipients, etc. Yeah, that’s it. The commenter was kidding. Anonymous: Did you forget Mrs. Obama’s comment about “this is the first time I’m really proud of my country” (paraphrased)?

Lifestyle & Community have a big announcement, selling things, need help? Free for VT students! Place an ad or announcement at collegiatetimes.com, visit our business office at 618 N. Main St. 9 am- 5pm Monday-Friday, or call (540) 961-9860. Students can come into 618 N. Main St. to place a free ad. Rates as low as 32 cents per word, contengent on the number of days to run. Prepaid. 15 word minimum. Cash, check, Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express. Deadline: 3 pm 3 business days prior to publication.

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The signed beams will be one of the last steps in the completion of the fly tower, the tall structure encompassing the space above the theater’s stage. Maeger and his crew have labored on the project since shortly after ground was broken in June 2010. Construction on the performance hall started that November, while work on the collaborative performance laboratory, the cube-like structure being built along Alumni Drive, began in July 2011. Work on the center will increase after May, when Shultz will close its doors for the final time and renovations will begin on the interior to repurpose the dining hall into the new arts center. This will mark one of the last phases of the project’s construction. “We’ll have it substantially completed in April of next year for the first performance for the university in fall of 2013,” Maeger said. While many view the new arts building as a great addition to the campus, not every member of the university is excited about

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Aries (March 21-April 19) -- Today is a 6 -- Think it over before making a change. Check the facts. Go over your lists again, and postpone travel or big expenses. Stick to simple tasks. You’re clever with words.

Cancer (June 22-July 22) -- Today is an 8 -- Work behind the scenes and travel later. A secret is itching to be shared. Build energy, and research the background. Save up and prepare. Baby steps get you a long ways.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) -- Today is a 7 -- You’re in the limelight and things could get confusing, especially around love and money. Listen to the one who tells the truth. Find an answer in meditation.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) -- Today is a 7 -- When the going gets tough, it helps to stick together. Don’t fall for the negative thoughts. Listen instead to those who support you. Take regular breaks.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) -- Today is a 6 -- A friend of a friend is a big help. Get some physical exercise. Don’t dip into savings. Learn from resistance, and don’t launch any new endeavors yet. There’s love all around.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) -- Today is a 7 -- It’s important to show you care. Take a walk together, somewhere lovely. Share a nice experience, and get some exercise: It’s a win-win. Turn your phone off for a while.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) -- Today is a 7 -- Adventure time again! There are dragons to be slayed and hanging bridges to be crossed. You could just stay at home, but then who will save the villagers?

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) -- Today is a 6 -- Stick to your plan and to what worked before. Don’t get distracted, and rake in the pro its. Only go for costeffective strategies, and don’t gamble your winnings.

Gemini (May 21-June 21) -- Today is a 7 -- Money is lowing, so keep an eye on the budget or be tempted to blow it all on spontaneous luxury (rather than those necessities you’ve been saving for). Get them on sale.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) -- Today is a 7 -- Passions stir. Take advantage, and capture them on ilm, canvas, paper or your hard drive. Working up a sweat provides contemplation and release. Stay thrifty.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) -Today is a 7 -- You’re in the middle of a practical phase. Creativity comes in handy. If at irst you fail, don’t worry. There is a lot to learn from the experience.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) -- Today is an 8 -- Romance is here to stay (at least for the weekend). Make sure you understand the instructions before moving forward. Now your creativity counts double.

Send your information and a photo to the Collegiate Times at studybreak@collegemedia.com to make an announcement.

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editors: chelsea gunter, patrick murphy

march 30, 2012

featureseditor@collegiatetimes.com/ 540.231.9865

COLLEGIATETIMES

Art festival comes to Tech JACOB WILBANKS features staff writer A group of students will assemble this weekend to celebrate the fine arts. Glossolalia, a free twonight literary festival for Virginia Tech students, will be held today and tomorrow at 7 p.m. in Torgersen Hall Room 3100. Event curator Hannah Boutwell, a senior English major, said the event provides students with an experience they cannot easily get elsewhere. “I envision Glossolalia as a more relaxed poetry reading. It is not just a literary festival, but it will also have music and art,” Boutwell said. “It is an opportunity too for undergraduate students to (showcase) their work.” Prior to the festival, there was an open mic night held on Thursday at 9 p.m. at Shesha Cafe that let students present their written works. In addition to student readers, Glossolalia will feature poet Andrea Cohen and fiction writer Joseph Salvatore, who will present readings on Friday and Saturday, respectively. Cohen directs the Blacksmith House Poetry Series in Cambridge, Mass. and has received multiple honors including the PEN Discovery Award and the Owl Creek Poetry Prize. Salvatore is a regular fiction reviewer for The New York Times and an assistant professor at The New School. In addition, Salvatore recently published his debut collection of short stories, “To Assume a Pleasing Shape.” The hosted renowned writers’ readings will be highlights of the festival. But, Boutwell feels the festival’s goal is to create a platform for Tech students to present their works. “(Glossolalia) is more about

giving students an avenue to share their work with other people,” Boutwell said. A total of 16 students have been chosen to present their works, with six undergraduate students and two graduate students reading each night. A panel of graduate students selected the undergraduate students’ works, and undergraduate students chose the graduate students’ works. The evaluations were done blindly by online submissions. Tom Minogue, a junior English major, will be one of the undergraduate students presenting. Minogue will be reading five original poems, including “Slow-Wave Respite” and “Dissolution.” “Most of the poetry I write concerns the ability of the self to establish a connection with the world, and the usual failure of that connection because of the influences of alienation, anxiety and technology on the psyche,” Minogue said. While Minogue does not plan to solely pursue a career in poetry, he wishes to follow his passion for creative writing regardless. “I’ve been told poets can’t really live without a mysterious benefactor or ‘sugar mama,’” Minogue said. “I’m planning on moving on to law school and entering the corporate ladder, while continuing to develop my writing on the side.” Minogue highly regards the opportunity he has been given to present his poetry at Glossolalia, despite going after an unrelated career. “The opportunity to read poetry aloud in front of a group of like-minded people isn’t frequent as an undergrad, so it’s been exciting seeing a festival like this coalesce,” Minogue said. Bob Hicok, an associate professor of English, initially proposed the idea for the literary festival to Boutwell and

her classmates during their poetry class. The name for the event was proposed during class, when the word “glossolalia” came up in a poem, which sparked the interest of Boutwell and her peers. “Glossolalia means incomprehensible speech, which is perfect because poetry is often hard to understand. We wanted something fun, different and relaxed,” Boutwell said. Although the idea was brought forth in one small class, the festival has garnered additional student interest this semester, as fellow creative writing students have gotten involved. “For me, this is more about getting my fellow students involved in something I knew they would enjoy,” Boutwell said. “Also, it is about getting professors involved in what their students are working on.” While this is the first year for the festival, Boutwell hopes it can evolve into an annual event that students get excited about. “My job is to lay the foundation for the event so, eventually, we can be affiliated with the university,” Boutwell said. “In the future, I hope it can be something everyone can look forward to.”

event info Who: Virginia Tech students What: Glossolalia Literary Festival with poetry, music and art Where: Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. in Torgersen Hall Room 3100 Cost: Free

International Street Fair hits the town NICK SMIRNIOTOPOULOS features reporter While Blacksburg may not be known as a melting pot, international flavor and culture are about to permeate the streets of downtown. The 53rd annual International Street Fair is hitting the town Saturday. The fair is a celebration of all aspects of international culture, including food, music, dance and more. The fair will take place on College Avenue from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and is open and free to the public. Should inclement weather set in, the fair will move inside Squires Student Center. Abdullah Alseflan, a senior mechanical engineering major, is the president of the Council of International Student Organizations, which puts on the festival. “It is a celebration of diversity and the main thing is music, food and international engagement,” Alseflan said. “Basically we’re trying to bring the world here instead of having the people from Blacksburg travel around the world.” Lyndsy Manz, the assistant director of the Cranwell International Center, said the event provides a great opportunity to highlight the international communities’ presences in Blacksburg. “I think it’s great that we have at least one very visible, colorful, loud, tasty event that is out for people to see what those cultures are,” Manz said. Kim Beisecker, director of the Cranwell International Center,

said the fair also provides a valuable learning experience to community members. “(The fair promises) lots of fun, lots of great food, great music, dance and some meaningful exchanges — conversation and sharing between members of our international community, our domestic community, the town and the university,” Beisecker said. Beisecker also said raising awareness about the diversity of Virginia Tech and Blacksburg is one of the fair’s main goals. “It’s also to give the opportu-

cating where the countries are located. The fair also has a theme — “Hokies Without Borders.” “It’s to show we don’t have any borders here in Blacksburg on the street fair,” Alseflan said. “It’s a day we all celebrate — we live in one planet and there are no borders to define us. We celebrate the diversity between us.” Beisecker elaborated the theme’s importance. “It really is the image that the borders of a country aren’t changing the fact that we’re all Hokies and we’re all studying and living and working together as Hokies,” Beisecker said. The fair is open for anyone to attend and We’re trying to bring the will include an area for world here instead of having young children known as Kid’s Zone. the people of Blacksburg The Kid’s Zone — a portion of the fair that travel around the world.” will be a safe environment for kids to play — Abdullah Alseﬂan will have yo yos, along President of the Council of with other world crafts, International Student Organizations cotton candy and things to keep toddlers’ hands busy, Manz said. For Manz, the nity for the diversity within the International Street Fair provides international community to a unique learning experience that work together toward an event, occurs once a year. and it’s certainly to bring global “I would encourage that this awareness or competence for stu- is a great opportunity to travdents, faculty, staff and commu- el the world without leaving nity members to learn about the Blacksburg,” Manz said. “In a customs and other events and matter of two blocks — two city happenings around the world,” blocks worth of tables — you Beisecker said. can see a variety of nations repAll of the organizations’ booths resented and try cultural foods at the fair will feature global maps and hear different music, without with snapshots of continents they having to buy an expensive flight represent, as well as stars indi- across the world.”

Film sets sales record L

ooks like “The Hunger Games” book and movie series are officially catching fire. Lions Gate Entertainment reeled in a total of $155 million during opening weekend for “The Hunger Games,” making it the third-biggest opening weekend of all time. “The Hunger Games,” ranked third among the “Harry Potter” finale ($169.2 million), as well as “The Dark Knight” ($158.4 million), both of which are huge franchises. However, “The Hunger Games,” is officially the biggest non-sequel and biggest non-summer opener. The film earned nearly $20 million from the midnight screenings alone. This will be the first official blockbuster for Lions Gate, which is known for producing the “Saw” horror films, the “Tyler Perry” films, as well as the “Mad Men” TV series. However, it is now on the rise after it bought Summit Entertainment this January — therefore, it now owns the rights to the “The Twilight Saga.” So, Lions Gate is now receiving millions of dollars from both of these stories for teens. But, “The Hunger Games,” is clearly blowing the vampire films out of the water. “The Hunger Games” earned more than twice the income of “Twilight” during opening weekend ($69.6 million). Internationally, the film earned $59.3 million opening night and $214.3 million over the weekend worldwide. Some people are speculating that the success of the story results from society’s craving for a female hero — this desire is fulfilled by 21-year-old Jennifer Lawrence, the star of the film who plays the lead-

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ing role of Katniss Everdeen. “People were hungry for something like this,” said Phil Contrino, editor of the researcher Boxoffice. com. Contrino predicts the film series will inspire an appreciation for female heroes and could have a potential impact on future film icons. Filming for the second movie, “Catching Fire,” will begin this summer. It has been announced that the film will be released in November 2013.

FROM THE ENTERTAINMENT BLOG SEE OTHER BLOG POSTS AT COLLEGIATETIMES.COM/BLOGS CHELSEA GUNTER -features editor -junior -communication major

A Dangerous Method

Sat 7:00 & 9:15 Sun 7:00 & 9:15 Mon 10:00am, 7:00 & 9:15 Tues -Thurs 7:00 & 9:15

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editors: matt jones, zach mariner sportseditor@collegiatetimes.com/ 540.231.9865

sports

march 30, 2012 COLLEGIATETIMES

With nine starters back, defense looks to build on 2011

KEVIN DICKEL / SPPS

(Top left) A running back carries the ball during Virginia Tech’s ﬁrst spring practice Wednesday night. (Bottom left) Quarterback Logan Thomas hands off to a tailback. (Right) Michael Holmes goes through a pad drill.

After a successful 2011 season, Bud Foster’s defense hopes to answer some question marks ZACH MARINER sports editor While Virginia Tech’s offense was a bit rusty during the team’s first spring practice Wednesday night, the defense shined, as expected. Of course, when you’re bringing back nine starters from a group that ranked in the top 10 last season in total defense, you’re allowed to have high expectations. “We were a good defense last year, but I want to be a great defense,” said defensive coordinator Bud Foster. “We want to be one of the best in the country, and that’s what our goal is. But, to do that, you’ve got to create some depth and have some depth up front. “Obviously we have some holes to fill in the secondary. We’re banged up at linebacker, so we’re looking to create some depth there. Right now (we’re hoping to) improve and continue to go in the path we started last year.” Here are a few defensive story lines to keep an eye on this spring:

CREATING DEPTH Although the defense does bring back the majority of its starters, once you look at the two-deep roster, you start to realize how many young guys might see meaningful action this season. “We have a good group of guys back on defense,” Foster said. “But still, we need to create some depth. I want to see us keep taking strides. We need to continue to develop our depth and get some of the young players to learn their positions and their expectations within the defense.” For this spring, the team will be without starting defensive tackle Antoine Hopkins, who is still recovering from an ACL tear from last October, and starting backer Tariq Edwards, who had shin surgery earlier this month. The team has also lost two valuable backup guys at linebacker, with Barquell Rivers’ graduation and Telvion Clark’s dismissal from the team. Add that to Jayron Hosley’s early departure for the NFL, as well as Eddie Whitley and Cris Hill graduating, and now you’re looking at a much greener defense. The area of least concern right now for Foster is his defensive line, where he brings back everyone on his twodeep, including Hopkins and his brother, Derrick, along with James

Gayle, JR Collins, Tyrel Wilson, Zack McCray, Corey Marshall and Luther Maddy. However, his other two units are in for an interesting spring.

SECONDARY SHAKE-UP Having lost Hosley, Whitley and Hill, coach Torrian Gray’s bunch is in need of some quick development. To facilitate that development, Gray and Foster have moved several guys around in the defensive backfield. Junior safety Antone Exum will take Hosley’s spot at cornerback opposite Kyle Fuller, while corners Detrick Bonner and Kyshoen Jarrett will join Boye Aromire in the fight for the two safety spots. “We’re just trying to create a little bit of depth there by moving guys around a little bit, and maybe maximize some of their abilities and that type of thing,” Foster said. Foster is confident in his new safeties but knows there is one thing they need to be able to do to succeed. “My biggest concern will be, ‘Can those guys tackle consistently at the safety spot?’ I mean, they’re corner guys, but they’ve got good size, they’re not small guys. But, I want to make sure they’re good tacklers. “Our safeties, we spill the ball to those guys a lot, and just being consistent with communication, there will be some new things for them. But they’ve been a part of it. Especially Bonner and Kyshoen are two young, good prospects who I think football is very important to. They want to be successful. They understand the tradition in our secondary.” Gray is not without worry either, but he does have faith in his players to step into whatever position he needs them to. “In a stretch right now I think I’m going to feel good about Mike Cole, I think Boye is going to take steps at safety, Theron Norman, I think all those guys are going to take steps at safety so if you don’t have anybody coming along, you can move those guys back,” he said. “So, you know, all it is doing is adding flexibility to us. I can move Antone back, but we have corners in Kyshoen and those guys — it’s just trying to maximize the personnel. But I feel better now knowing those guys can go in and play safety.” Fuller, who has primarily played either nickel corner or a hybrid whip linebacker/rover position in

his first two years with the team, will now move to field corner full time. “Obviously, Kyle Fuller’s a good football player,” Foster said. “He needs more reps at corner, he’s been our nickel guy for the last couple years, so he’s going to get some more reps at corner. I don’t even know if we’ll run a nickel package this spring. We’ll probably just keep him at corner.” Exum, who has never been a true cornerback, is excited about the challenge in front of him. “I played nickel corner as a freshman,” he said. “We joke around, call it ‘the slot life.’ It wasn’t necessarily the island, but I was in the slot most of the time and I was very comfortable there. “With all the coverage responsibilities I had to take on at free safety, I was comfortable there as well. I just see it as a new challenge. I’m not going to go into it thinking that I’m not going to excel at it. I still feel comfortable out there.” His coaches certainly have plenty of confidence in him. “Antone has great physical ability,” Gray said. “Antone kind of slowed down at times last year when things started moving and shifting and all those things. “He’s a good enough athlete where if you just put him out on a number one and let him line up there where it’s man or zone, we figure it will just give him a chance to just let go and play.”

TROUBLE AT BACKER With the absence of Edwards, and now Clark, the backer spot looks thin as ever, as Chase Williams is the only scholarship player left at the position. However, the coaching staff has already moved walk-on safeties Derek DiNardo and Josh Trimble to help accommodate for the lack of depth. “To me, those are two preferred walk-on guys who are potential scholarship guys,” Foster said. “DiNardo started on a couple special teams last year, I think Josh is a guy who can do that. Right now, I think they’ve got good speed, but all of a sudden, if it is average speed in the secondary, it’s good speed at linebacker.” Foster also has a few other guys at the position who can make strides during spring practice. “I feel good about Jack Tyler. Brian Laiti is a guy who we redshirted and then sat, didn’t travel last year,” he said. “He needs to take the next step. He’s a really good prospect out of high school, but he has to learn our system and be consistent, but those

are going to be the guys who get a lot of reps. “DJ Ward, he’s a preferred walkon kid from last year, I think he’s got a lot of promise as well. I’m looking forward to working. Where we go, I don’t know, I’m just looking to see how these guys learn the position, get them a good evaluation, and if they can give us some depth, they’ll give us some depth.” Although Foster knows Edwards will be back in plenty of time for fall practice, he still wants to see more from what he has left at backer, primarily from Williams. “Chase needs to take that next step as a football player,” Foster said. “And he’s going to get a majority of the work, which is what he needs.” Williams will not be available to the media for spring practice, due to the current controversy involving his father, former New Orleans Saints defensive coordinator Gregg Williams. However, his coach had plenty to say about him. “I feel good about Chase,” Foster said. “Chase is probably more suited to be a mike, but he’s a valuable guy because he’s intelligent, and he can

play both spots. So he’s going to get a lot of reps this spring, and I’m excited about it. “I think it’ll be a big spring for him

and for us. If he can take the next step like Jack Tyler has and step into some key roles, he can really help our defense.”

people & clubs

march 30, 2012 COLLEGIATETIMES

She said: ‘Friends with beneﬁts’ never works out At

what age do we look in the mirror and say, “No honey, you’re too old to have a friend with benefits?” You can’t pin point the moment, but it is definitely not at college age. It is becoming more common for many of us to “find the one” in high school, but it just doesn’t seem to work out once we get to college, and we end up traveling along the rebound trail. As we struggle with our fading high school love, we look to the new world of Virginia Tech. Suddenly, the sun comes from behind the clouds as we notice the term “single” has hit a new level in college. Not only do you have options, but you have incredible options. Chivalry is dead, and “friends with benefits” are a load of you know what. I know you are thinking I don’t know what I’m talking about. Let me guess — you are “no strings attached” with the guy in Pritchard, and you all are just “friends with benefits.” You don’t care about the drama, and whenever you see them, you see them. That is a load of crap, girlfriend. Let me map out your life for you. You end up thinking about him all day, checking his Facebook and even changing his name in your phone at least twice. One of those names was probably “meh,” “do not text” or “ew.” On the days when you have class with him — or when there is even the slightest chance you’ll cross paths — you wake up earlier and put a little more “oomf ” in your appearance. On the weekend, you casually act like you already have plans but ask where he’s headed so you can show up late to make an appearance. Yes, most of us have been there. As much as you try to be the girl who hates labels or doesn’t want the drama, you dig the kid and are dying for him to simply ask you to make it exclusive. The thing is, you have to read him. Is he the kind who has the suave attitude of “I can get any girl I want so I’m benching some players and letting others come on the court,” or is he the nervous type who isn’t sure if he’s ready to settle down with a girl so soon in college? Once you have this figured out, you need to drop him like its hot if he even hints to the first type or convince him you’re a keeper.

The sooner things are out of limbo and into a relationship, the less jealousy and drama there will be. Who am I to give advice as the single she said columnist who is Strug-City with her own personal relationships? I’m the cold, hard truth and I’m here to share what I’ve realized. Nowadays, people can be “talking” to more than five people at one time — that’s where “friends with benefits” come in. It is when someone is trying to keep their options open even when they have found someone they’re interested in. In no way, shape or form does this type of relationship end up well, unless you both realize it should be all or nothing. I am the emotional, pro-relationship female who is against the pimp game. I used to be the girl who got hurt in high school, so I refused to

he she

SAID

allow anyone to get truly close to me. However, I’ve learned that with maturity comes trust. After first meeting someone on a whim, you fall into the stage of dipping your toes into the water to see if it is hot or cold. Sometimes, you become well aware that the water is just right, and you’re ready to jump in head first. But it’s not fun to jump alone. In the “friends with benefits” trap, there will always be someone who falls harder than the other and no longer sees the situation as “no strings attached.” It becomes apparent that the person who cares the least has the most power in the relationship — that is begging for heartbreak. The movies “No Strings Attached” and “Friends with Benefits” result in the main characters together or not together, for a reason. There is no

editors: chelsea gunter, patrick murphy featureseditor@collegiatetimes.com/ 540.231.9865

He said: Be a gentleman and take her out to dinner T

here is a certain relationship — between a male and female — that breaks the social norm that a man and woman can only be friends or lovers, not both. From a guy’s perspective, this seems like a dream. “You’re telling me I can consistently hook up with a girl without dating her? Sign me up,” replied my friend when I told him about this peculiar situation. While friends with benefits sounds like the perfect set-up for a guy, I’m here to walk you through the reality of the journey. The conception: All tragic endings must have a beginning. This usually starts as a casual hook-up at a party. You both have been drinking, it’s been a long week and you just need to swap spit with another human being. Dancing commences and one thing leads to another before it’s the next morning and you’re lying next to each other wondering what exactly happened. If you can get to this point without wanting to never talk to the other person again, you stand a fair chance of continuing to a “friends with benefits” relationship. The during: This is the good part. You realize the one night spent with each other wasn’t so bad, and next time you get drunk you text her to come over. Once CHELSEA GUNTER / COLLEGIATE TIMES is just a one-night stand, but two times is something serious (at in-between without major conflict. least in today’s terms) — if she so No matter how easy or hard it is, graciously accepts, you are pretty once you find someone worth the much at the friends with benefits stage. time, hold on to them. Every morning after, you discuss There will be countless forces trying to pull you apart, and both of how this is nothing more than you will make mistakes, pushing casually hooking up — you simply you two steps back. If they’re worth do not want more. You think this it, you can jump three steps forward feeling is mutual and that it canif you merely have faith in your not get any better. What could go wrong? relationship. The falling-out: One morning There will always be criticism, judgment and more than enough as you drop her off at her apartoutside opinions, but it’s what is in ment after a nice “stress-releasing session,” you accidentally kiss your heart that really matters. goodbye. You don’t realize what happened at the time, but about KELLEY 45 seconds later you replay what ENGLISH happened and simultaneously say, -featured columnist “Oh no.” You are mad at yourself, as she -junior now thinks you have feelings for -marketing manageher and she thinks the same thing ment major about you. You realize, “This must

end now.” The aftermath: You now try to formulate the text message to end what you started. Typing it out and erasing again — nothing seems to sound right. Finally you muster up something about how you don’t think you should see each other again due to miscellaneous reasons. It’s over right? If only. Now that you wish to never see this person again, you will see them more than ever. Lunches at West End become awkward when you see they are at the table next to you. Your friend asks you who they are and you make up some story to explain your complicated history. Sheepish smiles are shared as you walk past each other on the Drillfield. In reality, “friends with benefits” never works out in the long run. Feelings often develop on only one side of the relationship, which only leads to poor endings. Us guys can only thank Ashton Kutcher in the “No Strings Attached” movie for giving girls a perceptive that all friends-with-benefits relationships will lead to love. Sorry optimists, but this is often not the reality. To avoid the mal-effects of this situation, just stay away from it all together. As Dave Matthews said, “A guy and a girl can be just friends, but at one point or another, they will fall for each other — maybe temporarily, maybe at the wrong time, maybe too late or maybe forever.” A “friends with benefits” relationship may knock out the forever in that equation. Someone always gets hurt. Call me old fashioned, but maybe the best way to get with a girl isn’t to get her drunk but instead take her out to a nice dinner. While a $20 meal for two may be a more expensive means of winning a girl over, a $9 rail will certainly lead to a more unhealthy and troublesome relationship.

DANE HARRINGTON -featured columnist -junior -industrial & systems engineering major