The Rocky Mountain Collegian, Tuesday, February 12, 2013 by The Rocky Mountain Collegian

GETTING FAT + IT’S TUESDAY + THE RAMSKELLER =

SPORTS | PAGE 8

LET ME LOVE YOU

NEWS | PAGE 3

CSU MARDI GRAS

LIEDTKE EXPLAINS THE IMPORTANCE OF CELEBRATING VALENTINE’S DAY

CSU HOCKEY ORANGE-OUT

OPINIONS | PAGE 5

7:30 P.M. TONIGHT AT THE BUDWEISER EVENT CENTER

THE RO CKY MOUNTAIN

Fort Collins, Colorado

Tuesday, February 12, 2013

COLLEGIAN

Volume 121 | No. 100

www.collegian.com

THE STUDENT VOICE OF COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY SINCE 1891

MEN’S BASKETBALL

the

STRIP

Ranked for first time since 1954

CLUB

For the first time in a little over 600 years, a sitting pope has announced that he will resign. As the Vatican goes through its traditional selection process for the next person to occupy the Holy See, outgoing Pope Benedict XVI will have quite a bit of free time in his newfound retirement and will need something to occupy his time.

By ANDREW SCHALLER The Rocky Mountain Collegian The Colorado State men’s basketball team has made the Associated Press top 25 poll for the first time since 1954, announced Monday. The Rams have received votes in the poll the entire season, but broke through into the rankings as the No. 24-ranked team in the country, just behind Oregon. CSU received 125 total votes in the poll, up from a season high of 49 votes it received in last week’s poll. “It’s neat for our players and for our program,” CSU coach Larry Eustachy said. “That’s exciting news for our guys, but we still have to play very difficult games on Wednesday (vs. San Diego State) and then on Saturday (at Air Force).” The tumultuous state of college basketball recently helped the Rams break into the rankings. See RANKED on Page 8

MW TEAMS IN TOP 25 New Mexico (19 AP, 18 USA Today) San Diego State (RV, 22) Colorado State (24, 24)

BOARD OF GOVERNORS

If at first you don’t succeed, vote again With CSU’s blessing, undoc. students may get in-state tuition By AUSTIN BRIGGS The Rocky Mountain Collegian The second time might be the charm. After being defeated last year, a bill granting in-state tuition rates for undocumented immigrant students is making its way through the Colorado senate for the second time –– and has a good chance of passing, according to the bill’s author, state Sen. Mike Johnston (D–Denver). Undocumented students would have to attend high school in Colorado, graduate and work toward citizenship, and meet other requirements to receive in-state tuition. The bill has garnered more bipartisan support compared to last year, including an endorsement from Tom Massey, the Republican Chair of the House Education Committee. See TUITION on Page 3

HUNTER THOMPSON | COLLEGIAN

Crystal Vander Zanden, a homeschool student from Glendale, Arizona, is in her second year of her biochemistry doctoral degree at CSU at the age of eighteen. Zanden decided during her undergrad studies that she loved working in the lab and that is what she wanted to pursue.

A Crystal among the biochemists 18-year-old CSU student in the middle of her graduate degree

By SEAN MEEDS The Rocky Mountain Collegian

o one knew that Crystal Vander Zanden was only 16 when she showed up for her graduate interview. All told, Dr. Pui Shing Ho knew that there was a minor coming to the restaurant where they were interviewing potential students, but he couldn’t figure out which one it was. “It wasn’t until she came in with her mother that we knew who she was,” he said. “We had all placed bets on who it would be and we were all wrong.” Zanden was homeschooled in her hometown of Glendale, Ariz. until she

For more on Crystal Vander Zanden’s story, watch CTV’s report, tonight at 8 p.m.

attended Glendale High School at the early age of nine. “I’m pretty mature for my age, but in the beginning it was hard to connect with the other students,” Zanden said. “It got easier toward the end because I was getting ready to graduate and the age gap wasn’t as noticeable.” Before she even attended high school, however, she had already taken a few prerequisite courses at the Glendale Community College. By age 13, Zanden was already en-

rolled in Doane College in Crete, Neb. Her mother moved out there with her while she studied at the small school. “I think there was around 1,500 students there, which was great because it allowed me to get more involved,” she said. “Smaller colleges are better for undergraduate degrees.” Zanden graduated at age 17 with a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry and a minor in music. Now 18, Zanden is in the second year of her graduate studies with the Department of Molecular Biology, which houses what is considered to be one of the most rigorous degrees to

“(We) fell in love! Fell in love with the doctors, in love with the school, in love with the town.” Tatum Jones | one of Snuggles’ trainers

Snuggles comes to FoCo Therapy minihorse visited for eye checkup

265th pope resigns, CSU Catholics look ahead By KATE SIMMONS The Rocky Mountain Collegian

ful social interactions to a troubled child. Her trainers, Tatum and Ed Jones, agreed that a therapy mini-horse might seem silly. But a visit from Snuggles — with little hooves and a fluffy winter

The world witnessed history yesterday morning when Pope Benedict XVI announced his intent to resign from his post, making him the first pope in 600 years to do so. “I was pretty surprised this morning,” said Mike Klausner, a junior biology and political science major who identifies as a Catholic. “I think a lot of people were.” Benedict cited health problems as his reason for leaving the papacy at the end of the month. Some speculate his friendship with his predecessor affected his decision; Pope John Paul II died due to poor health in 2005. “He was pretty close to John Paul the II and he watched him be totally consumed by Parkinson’s, so I’m sure he saw that

See SNUGGLES on Page 8

See POPE on Page 6

By ISABELLA HEEPKE The Rocky Mountain Collegian One might expect several news vans to be parked outside of CSU’s Veterinary Hospital last Friday for a prize racehorse or a Budweiser Clydesdale, but Snuggles is not your everyday noble steed. She is a miniature horse whose head barely reaches a grown man’s waist. Snuggles is also a specially-trained therapy horse. She travels to nursing homes, rehab clinics, special-needs children centers and hospitals all across Texas with her fellow horses from Minis and Friends, under the slogan, “Mini Hooves Touching Many Hearts.” “It’s very significant to

See ZANDEN on Page 6

PHOTO COURTESY OF WILLIAM A. COTTON

Colorado State University veterinary students Adam Nylund and Stacey Rael, and ophthalmologist Dr. Cynthia Powell examine Sunggles, a miniature horse, during a checkup on Friday at the CSU Veterinary Teaching Hospital.

patients not looking toward a bright outcome,” said Melanie Tatum, one of Snuggles’ trainers. Hugging and working with these friendly creatures can brighten a particularly dreary day in the nursing home, or provide meaning-

Things the pope should do in his free time

Social Networking

He already has a Twitter. Why not expand into Tumblr? Or Instagram? Or YouTube? What better way to spend free time than telling the world what you had for breakfast?

Play a Sport

Being the pope must not leave much room for recreation. Now that he is no longer the Pope, Benedict XVI can stretch his legs and try shooting a few hoops, or playing catch.

Modeling

He already has a rocking hat, and he occasionally walks down a runway (of sorts). Mayhaps he should consider a career as a professional robe model?

Condom Police

He publicly denounced using them in nearly every scenario imaginable. But what guarantee does he have that millions of Catholics aren’t strapping up? None. It’s condom police time. The Strip Club is written by the Collegian staff.

2 Tuesday, February 12, 2013 | The Rocky Mountain Collegian

Community Briefs

FORT COLLINS FOCUS

CSU celebrates 143 years

MADISON BRANDT | COLLEGIAN

Junior buisness major Nick Vitale signs CSU’s giant birthday card in the Lory Student Center Plaza Monday afternoon. In addition to card signing, CSU celebrated its birthday with free cupcakes and an energizing performance by the CSU Marching Band.

“Like” The Rocky Mountain Collegian on facebook.com.

Around 2,000 green and gold cupcakes were given out to people passing through the Lory Student Center Plaza, stopping to pose for photos with CAM the Ram and listen to the student marching band belt out the university fight song. It was birthday time –– or Founders Day –– for CSU, which celebrated 143 years at 1:43 p.m. Monday. “Founders Day so far has been getting together to put on the CAM birthday card and the cupcakes,” said Maggie Schwartz, a senior global tourism major, who helped the university’s Events and Constituent Engagement Office host the event by handing out information. “It has been a good turn ... nice to see so many students out supporting our university.” According to a university news release, more than 6,000 degrees were conferred at CSU in 20112012. There have been more than 230,000 undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees conferred at the university to date.

Suspect in custody after potential hostage situation in west Fort Collins

According to Rita Davis, a spokesperson for

Fort Collins Police Services, at approximately 12:45 p.m., Fort Collins police received a report of a physical disturbance at 812 Tyler St. Davis said a female ran out of the back of the house screaming, and a male came outside and pulled her back in. Police then made repeated attempts to contact the household, which were unsuccessful. Police then contacted the SWAT team and negotiation team, both of which arrived on the scene at approximately 2 p.m., according to bystanders. The SWAT and negotiation teams tried to make contact and were unsuccessful again, Davis said. At approximately 3:50 p.m., police deployed a diversionary device which, according to Davis, makes a loud noise with the intention of stunning or catching someone off guard. Davis said the female then exited the house carrying an infant. Police then entered the house and retrieved a toddler, and brought the male suspect out of the house. “It appears that no one was injured and everybody came out of the house on their own free will,” Davis said. The suspect is in custody and the investigation is active, according to Davis.

— Collegian Staff Report

One More Day! Send a free message to your Valentine!

e red. Roses ar blue, e Violets ar cool girl, a e You’r U! a like YO And I kind ie m XOXO, Ja

Print a free message in the Collegian for your sweetie, friend or pet (maybe not pet but perhaps your crush)! Your Valentine’s message will publish Feb. 14th in the Collegian. Email your message (25 words or less) to classads@lamar.colostate.edu or stop by the Collegian office in the lower level of the Lory Student Center. Include your name, phone number and CSU id number with emailed submissions.

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The Rocky Mountain Collegian | Tuesday, February 12, 2013

Fat Tuesday and the Ramskeller German and French students celebrate Mardi Gras

By BAILEY CONSTAS The Rocky Mountain Collegian Students looking to celebrate Mardi Gras might consider wearing purple for justice, gold for power and green for faith –– the traditional colors of the holiday that will flood the Ramskeller tonight from 7 to 9 p.m. The German Club, Le Cercle Français and Students for Study Abroad are organizing their tenth annual Fat Tuesday celebration at the popular campus hangout. The event will include music, free food, a costume competition and

raffles. “It’s a great chance to meet people and learn about a different interpretation of Mardi Gras than they are accustomed to,” said Bryana Starbuck, president of the French club and senior French and international studies double major. “It’s a way to blow off some steam and have fun together.” Starbuck is expecting 200 attendees based on last year’s turnout. “People think of Mardi Gras as just a French or Brazilian thing. But we as the German Club –– we can show Fasching,” said Ger-

man Club Secretary Jennifer Robinson, referring to the country’s version of Fat Tuesday. In Germany, the celebration begins on the Thursday before Fat Tuesday with Women’s Carnival (Weiberfastnacht) at 11:11 a.m., according to Franziska Wilcox, the club’s advisor and a German instructor at CSU. “All of the single men wear a tie, going out to local pubs,” Wilcox said. “All of the single women who would like to claim a single man, cut off their ties with a pair of scissors.” That day kicks off the

“crazy days” that lead up to the Tuesday before Ash Wednesday, which is observed by western Christians as the first day of Lent. “I don’t think we can do it alone. It’s always fun to collaborate with them (French Club),” Robinson said, adding that her favorite part of Mardi Gras is the costumes. “ ... One year we had somebody with steampunk, then we had Jesus one year, that was pretty cool,” Robinson said. “Yeah, I mean, dress up as anything.” Student Life Beat Reporter and Entertainment Reporter Bailey Constas can be reached at news@collegian.com.

Bas Bleu brings ‘N’awlins’ to Fort Collins By KATIE SALKA The Rocky Mountain Collegian Bas Bleu Theatre Company will be bringing a bit of New Orleans flair to Colorado this Tuesday. From masks and beads to performances and food, Bas Bleu Theatre Company aims to give guests a full and authentic Mardi Gras experience. “We have a chef from New Orleans who has put together, as he would say, a ‘N’awl’ins’ menu,” said Mishelle Baun, media relations and communications specialist at Bas Bleu. “We try to really be true to New Orleans flavor.” Some of these flavors will include Cajun chicken and potatoes, as well as shrimp and a few vegetarian options like jambalaya and hush puppies. Wine and local brews will also be avail-

able to complement these New Orleans delicacies. In addition to genuine Louisiana grub, guests will notice other key elements of a Mardi Gras party, namely masks, beads and entertainment like the special talents of Bryan Connolly. “I enjoy being the oddball performer that is juggling flaming clubs,” said Connolly, who has been juggling an assortment of objects for about nine years. Anyone who has been to Bas Bleu’s Mardi Gras parties in the past might remember Connolly, as he is a returning act. Other entertainment includes dancers, face painters and music from the Steve Johnson Group. “The whole thing is a lot of fun. It’s really just a fun place to be,” Connolly said. Indeed, fun is the name of the game when it comes to Mardi Gras, which falls

THE SHOW What: Bas Bleu Theatre Company’s Mardi Gras party When: Tuesday, Feb, 12, 6-9:30pm Where: Fort Collins Hilton Hotel (425 W Prospect Rd) Tickets: $65 More information at www. basbleu.org

just before the drastically more somber Ash Wednesday and the beginning of Lent for many Christians. Baun explained that Mardi Gras is all about letting loose, and having a party big enough to tide people over until the end of Lent is important. “We really capitalize on all-out fun,” Braun said. “We have quite a few CSU students help make this a really fun party. That’s the biggest thing.”

Although having fun is a major component of the Bas Bleu Mardi Gras party, there is also a more practical element. The party acts as a fundraiser as well, and supporting Bas Bleu is a good way to support the art community of Fort Collins in general. “We are one of few theatre companies in the nation, and the only one in northern Colorado, that owns its own building, and we rent it out no charge for about 100 dates a year,” Baun said. The purchase of a ticket can extend to supporting Bas Bleu in addition to granting access to a bona fide New Orleans Mardi Gras party. Music and Performing Arts Beat Reporter Katie Salka can be reached at entertainment@collegian.com.

“It’s not going to be any sort of tidal wave by any means. Initially, it’s a relatively small number.” Michael Martin | CSU Chancellor

CSU–Pueblo would change more TUITION |

Continued from Page 1 “We’re hearing from more and more Republican members who feel that we shouldn’t get in the way of folks who are trying to be productive, educated citizens,” Johnston wrote in an email to the Collegian. Friday afternoon, the CSU Board of Governors –– comprised of 15 prominent Colorado business, nonprofit and community leaders, as well as university faculty members and student body presidents –– supported the bill with a majority vote. CSU Chancellor Mike Martin is not a member of the Board of Governors but said he supports the bill and works closely with the BOG. Martin said one of the BOG members made a point that the state would have already invested time and money in providing a K-12 education by the time an undocumented student graduates high school, and it would be counterproductive if they couldn’t afford to attend college. “These students are here largely because their parents brought them here, so they didn’t make a choice, but now that they’re here let’s give them every choice that we can,” Martin said. Johnston estimated that if SB 13-33 passes, 500 stu-

dents would take advantage of the in-state tuition rates durings its first year of ratification. That number could possibly increase to 750 the year after. According to Johnston, the total revenue generated for Colorado’s universities and colleges would amount to anywhere between $2 million and $3 million dollars. Undocumented students would also qualify for the College Opportunity Fund –– a state subsidy given to in-state students who attend college in Colorado. Martin said CSU–Pueblo –– designated as a Hispanic Serving Institution with more than 25 percent of the student population of Latino descent –– would see the largest influx of students who would benefit from passage of the bill. “It’s not going to be any sort of tidal wave by any means,” Martin said. “Initially, it’s a relatively small number.” As to the murky legal area undocumented students are in, proponents of the bill believe it will allow those students who are here anyways to become productive citizens. “We’re in the education business, we’re not in the judgmental business,” Martin said. Senior Reporter Austin Briggs can be reached at news@collegian.com.

Collegian

OPINION Tuesday, February 12, 2013 | Page 4

your two cents

11% 14%

Yesterday’s Question: What would you do with $20,000? 72% Pay for college. 14% Get a new car. 11% Vegas! 3% Go on a cruise.

72% Today’s question: How will the basketball team do against San Diego State?

*37 people voted in this poll.

Visit Collegian.com to give us your two cents.

This is an unscientific poll conducted at Collegian.com and reflects the opinions of the Internet users who have chosen to participate.

Destiny’s Child: Empowering girls since the 90s Ever since the Super Bowl, I have been listening to Destiny’s Child songs on repeat. I had almost forgotten how much I loved my girls Kelly, Michelle and Beyonce back in junior high. When the Survivor album came out in 2001, I was obsessed with the catchy tunes. Seeing the girls perform together again made me reflect on the reasons why Destiny’s Child may be the greatest By tyanna slobe girl band of all time. But it’s not too late to allow yourself to be empowered by Destiny’s Child! While you may be a decade and a half older since the last time you jammed out to their lyrics, their messages of liberation and independence are still applicable to your life as a busy college student. I’ve chosen a few of Destiny’s Child’s greatest hits to help demonstrate how their themes are still relevant to our lives:

our view

Our Rams get ranked After weeks of anticipation and receiving votes, the CSU basketball team is finally ranked in the top 25 in the nation Both the Associated Press and USA Today coaches poll have the Rams at No. 24, which is above the defending national champion, Kentucky. CSU hasn’t been ranked since 1954 –– and this hasn’t exactly happened overnight. It’s the culmination of five years of work by former coach Tim Miles, who went 7-25 in his first year and didn’t win a conference game, but whose perseverance built the foundation that current coach Larry Eustachy has been able to capitalize upon. Miles recruited from both Colorado and Nebraska, building a pro-

gram of hardworking players that understand what it takes to win. Eustachy took that torch and

“This team is built on solid defensive fundamentals and a no-quit attitude both at home, and on the road.” crafted this year’s CSU team in his image: a gritty defensive team that battles “every inch of the floor.” He’s instilled a mental toughness this year that was lacking in previous campaigns. CSU doesn’t

fold in road games against lesser opponents and continue its dominant run at Moby Arena. Coaches in the MW have praised CSU all season, and it’s good that the Rams are finally receiving the national attention they deserve. And this ranking most likely won’t be a one-hit wonder for CSU. This team is built on solid defensive fundamentals and a no-quit attitude, both at home and on the road. CSU will make a push for the conference title this year, and you’ll likely see the Rams in the Big Dance, or NCAA Division I men’s basketball tournament, again. Not bad for a team that couldn’t win a single conference game not too long ago.

The Collegian Editorial Board is responsible for writing the staff editorial, “Our View,” and for the views expressed therein. Letters and feedback in response to the staff editorial can be sent to letters@collegian.com.

Kevin R. Jensen | Content Managing Editor news@collegian.com Andrew Carrera | News Editor news@collegian.com Emily Smith | News Editor news@collegian.com

Greg Mees | Editor in Chief editor@collegian.com Hunter Thompson | Visual Managing Editor photo@collegian.com Kyle Grabowski | Sports Editor sports@collegian.com Kris Lawan | Design Editor design@collegian.com

Hannah Glennon | Digital Media Manager webmaster@collegian.com Caleb Hendrich | Editorial Editor letters@collegian.com Emily Kribs | Entertainment Editor entertainment@collegian.com

“Jumpin’ Jumpin’” Are you a little bit too attached to your significant other? Are your relationships with your girlfriends falling apart because you can’t bear to leave your lover alone? If you find yourself in this situation, you should probably listen to Destiny’s Child when they say, “Ladies, leave your man at home.” You can afford to spend some time away from your partner, even if you are in a serious committed relationship. Spend time with your girlfriends. If there is anything to be learned from Destiny’s Child, it’s that girlfriends are important too. Plus, can you imagine how much more awesome Bondi would be on a Friday night if all the ladies left all the men at home? There would be far fewer unwanted butt-grabs. It would certainly be jumpin’ jumpin’.

“Survivor” The semester is starting to get into full swing, and if you’re anything like me, your workload is starting to seem unmanageable. Particularly if you are graduating this semester, you probably don’t think that you have the energy to finish strong. Destiny’s Child would suggest otherwise. Next time you think that you just can’t finish that rough homework assignment, or that you won’t pass an impossible midterm, just remember that you have done it before. You’ve lived through many difficult semesters, and you are a survivor! Anytime the voice in the back of your head starts whispering, “I can’t do it,” allow Beyonce’s far more powerful voice to drown it out: “You’re a survivor, you’re not going to give up, you’re not going to stop, and you’re going to work harder. You’re a survivor, you’re going to make it, you will survive and keep on surviving.”

“Independent Woman” Leaving home for college is, for many of us, our first time living independently from our families. It can be hard to cut the cord, especially if you are financially dependent on your parents for everything. Sure, you may need help paying for tuition and other unmanageable expenses that students are faced with. Even Destiny’s Child will admit that “it’s not easy bein’ independent,” but it is certainly one of the more empowering ways to change your life. Get a job! Being able to depend on yourself for groceries, fancy dinners and outings with friends is an important part of being independent. If you are one of the many honeys whom Destiny’s Child inspired to make her own money, be sure to throw your hands up with pride. You pay for your own fun, and you pay your own bills. You are a rock star. The themes of empowerment that Destiny’s Child preached way back in the late 1990s and early 2000s have only become more relevant with age. Your tenyear-old self probably danced around your bedroom every night yelling, “all the women who are independent throw your hands up at me,” and there is no reason why you shouldn’t do the same in 2013. Destiny’s Child helped you become an empowered pre-teen. If somewhere along the line you’ve forgotten how to empower yourself, just dig out your old CDs and take a listen. Then join me in following Beyonce around the country all summer for the United States portion of her “The Mrs. Carter Show World Tour.” After her Super Bowl performance, I’m not sure how you could resist. Tyanna Slobe is a senior English language and Spanish double major. Her column appears every Tuesday in the Collegian. Letters and Feedback can be sent to letters@collegian.com

Angelina Badali | COLLEGIAN

Whatever happened to life’s diploma? Only a single-digit percentage of the world’s population goes to college. With such a small number, why does it seem that in America college is the only option after high school? High school is doing a disBy holly mayer service to our young people by keeping them on the straight and narrow path towards college, instead of educating them on all the possibilities out there. When my parents were in high school (1950s), their guidance counselors informed them not only of four-year institutions, but also trade schools and entry level positions that did not require degrees. Back then you were not considered dumb or lazy if you chose to become a plumber or a mechanic. In fact, sometimes these occupations paid more than a job that required a four-year degree, and these individuals were very much respected as masters of their crafts. Fast forward a few years and the attitude in high schools now is not if you’re going to college, but when. I am all for pushing individuals to reach their full potential. However, what I am not for is telling teenagers that college is the only way to success. When I look around at our own community, it seems as though there are just as

many miserable people with master’s degrees as there are people who wait tables or pave driveways. Happiness does not have prerequisites. Everyone has that right, regardless of their educational background. This message is also putting pressure on parents to start saving for college even before the child is born. Speaking as a parent, it is already stressful enough supplying clothes and food, let alone money for college. Imagine the balancing act for families with two or more children. Essentially, they are cutting back on things now to supply something for the unknown future. All of this revolves around money. It is tacitly promised that if we spend a lot of money going to school, then we will get that job which will make a lot of money. Tell that to the 3.7 percent unemployment rate among bachelor degree-holding adults. In this country, there is currently a demand for positions that are trained positions. But the rumor is that these jobs do not make as much money as the jobs that require degrees. While this may be the case in some situations, just like with any job, experience moves you up the salary tree. Did you know some hairdressers are making almost $67,000 or more after spending five or more years in the industry? You may get paid more at a job that requires a degree. However, the move up not only will you need time under your belt, your company may say that a master’s degree is a ticket to

the next promotion. Sounds like more student loans and financial frustration. And what ever happened to money not being able to buy happiness? We keep saying we want bigger and better, and then complain that we have to work that much harder to afford it. Why not live a life where what matters is your overall happiness, despite your job title? We need to stop thinking about our “status” and start thinking about the quality of the things in our life that cannot be bought. I would rather be working in a factory and have a smile on my child’s face when I get home than have a child who never sees me because I am spending 60 hours a week at a job that I got with my degree. I understand that times have changed, but the value of education has not. Whether you find that education in a four-year institution or elsewhere, life is the biggest educator. Quantifying the quality of one’s life according to the school they attended or the major they choose indicates that the four-year education received has not really taught its graduates anything. To move our nation forward, we need to reevaluate our education system while also assuring our youth that choosing to opt out of college is not a death sentence. Holly Mayer is a junior English major. Her column appears every other Tuesday in the Collegian. Letters and feedback can be sent to letters@collegian.com

Collegian Opinion Page Policy The columns on this page reflect the viewpoints of the individual author and not necessarily that of The Rocky Mountain Collegian or its editorial board. Please send any responses to letters@collegian.com.

Letter submissions are open to all and are printed on a first-received basis. Submissions should be limited to 250 words and need to include the author’s name and contact information. Anonymous letters will not be printed. E-mail letters to letters@collegian.com

COLLEGIAN

OPINION TUESDAY Tuesday, February 12, 2013 | Page 5

Yays and Nays YAY | to CSU men’s basketball: Top 25 in the nation is where we

Valentine’s Day: CELEBRATE YOUR CAPACITY TO LOVE

belong.

NAY | to wind: it’s not enough to be freezing cold outside, you have to blow it in our faces, right Mother Nature? Yay | to Snuggles the horse: it’s not everyday you get a visit from a therapeutic miniature horse in a ﬂuffy winter coat. NAY | to the drunk driver on the Boulder campus: we know it’s Boulder, but come on! YAY | to 18 year-old smarty pants, Crystal Zanden: you’re going to go far in life!

NAY | to the Grammys: we expect entertainment from an awards show, not the TV equivalent of watching paint dry.

Avoid humiliation and just pay the tip

In a romantic utopia, I

imagine dating as holding an uncanny likeness to an 80s flick. Perhaps a stereo held over my head, blaring a desperately sentimental tune like a trench coat-clad John Cusack, courting my own Diane Court via tape deck, cut to: happily ever after. Many don’t share my By BRYCE LIEDTKE idealist sentiment, but most possess the same carnal yearning of another — the need for tangible and intangible affection alike. For someone else’s days to become vitally entangled with our own. Never is this desire highlighted more explicitly than on February 14. With Valentine’s day almost here, the population is split into two, singles and couples — the ultimate in a struggle of “haves” and “havenots.” College is a conundrum to romantic endeavors on all fronts. Whether you’re happily involved with someone or you’re a lone wolf, trials and tribulations await this Thursday. Fear not, however; they are lined with practical wisdom. You have undoubtedly heard single friends venting shamelessly about their solitude prior to this holiday while couples fume over its price tag (coming in at a hefty $126 average). When single students bemoan Valentine’s Day, I find it curious. They seem to make assumptions about this chocolate and rose-filled sap-fest; first and foremost being that it is celebrated to the exclusion of those lacking a special someone. In grade school, we all remember Feb. 14 being a day candy was universally distributed into our decorated shoe boxes. Most of us anticipated the sugar overload far more than the affectionate cards attached. Implicit in the festivities was that everyone got involved. For obvious reasons, those Valentine’s Days were devoid of any real romance, the only kisses were wrapped in foil; but why and at what age did we cut out the collective element? For me, the holiday of love has become muddled with illusions. Being a student in your early 20s means certain things. For one, if you believe that who you are — your interests, beliefs

or tastes in partners — will remain static, you have yet to become acquainted with life’s only constant: change. The reality is if you are in a serious relationship and plan to take the big plunge anytime before 26, you have a 60 percent likelihood of ending up a divorcee — a foreboding statistic for the young and in love. But this might also be part of the magic. Statistics, at the end of the day, are just numbers, and no one should be discouraged from a relationship because the odds are unfavorable. Even though we frequently measure the success of friendships and lovers in units of time, this currency is irrelevant. Perhaps what we should celebrate on Valentine’s Day is not whom we are with, but the fleeting nature of affection, both platonic and romantic. Despite the often-tumultuous outcome of relationships we hold early in life, the torrid intimacy in which we share the depths of our character is made infinitely more precious by the fact it could be gone in the morning. In 1960, the median age of marriage was about 21. Over the years, that age has crept up to 28. Why, you ask? Is it because we live longer and can wait? Maybe. Are we less mature at our age than previous generations? Probably. Or are we just conscious that settling down requires a degree of self-identity unattainable until slightly later in life? I hope so. College is the definitive period of internal exploration that society allots us. It is where we find aspirations, hopes and dreams, all of which are arguably best mined out of solitude. Maybe you have someone, maybe you don’t. Maybe you’ll stay together, maybe you won’t. What is truly spectacular and the reason for dedicating a holiday is the incredible capacity our species holds for love. The devastation we feel in its absence and euphoria in its presence are inseparable counterparts, both of which we must experience; for without the bitter, the sweet isn’t so sweet. The collegiate years and love are a tumultuous combination. It is where uncertainty, mistakes, passion, folly and maturity collide to give us an education as encompassing as the degrees we’ll walk away with. If nothing else this Valentine’s Day, take pleasure in knowing you hold a profound and truly exquisite faculty for affection, that in the fog lies a serendipitous encounter that will make you feel like you’re six years old is ripe for the picking. And for that, we toast. Bryce Liedtke is a senior finance major. His columns appear every other Tuesday in the Collegian. Letters and feedback can be sent to letters@ collegian.com.

ILLUSTRATION BY ANNIKA MUELLER | COLLEGIAN

There are a lot of terrible jobs out there. While they all have their shining moments of unpleasantness, one particularly outstanding example lies in the collection of jobs known as the service industry. You have undoubtedly encountered employees in this field of employment. They check out your groceries, answer your questions in retail outlets, clean the toilets that By CALEB HENDRICH you use in institutions of higher learning and (of course) deliver your food to you in restaurants. Service is (literally) the name of the game in this industry, and how the customer views the service is held as a high priority. Basically, they are not allowed to be nasty to you, the customer, no matter how nasty you are to them. In a recent opinion editorial on the Guardian’s website, one such employee took to the Internet to detail one such encounter that got her fired. The employee, who worked at an Applebee’s in St. Louis, noticed that a patron had denied a tip to another server. The patron had scribbled out the amount paid for tip, and scrawled, “I give 10 percent to God, why do you get 18?” signing his name with the denotation “Pastor” in front. Understandably peeved by this, the employee posted a picture of the offending receipt to Reddit.com, assuming the patron’s signature was illegible. Soon thereafter, the offending patron ran across an article concerning his denial of a tip, and demanded that everyone at that location be fired. The waitress was fired –– not, she suspects, because the restaurant was represented poorly, but because of the embarrassment suffered by the patron. This is something that has to change in today’s society. Not the wonton embarrassment of patrons at the hands of the employees, but the treatment of employees in the service industry in general. I speak from personal experience when I say that working in the service industry is awful. At the establishments where I was employed, I worked generally long hours for pay that I am fairly certain that I could barely live off. On top of that, I had to deal with a lot of unpleasant people while I did so. People would show up with a thousand coupons and yell at me when it took too long to scan them all in. People would cast aspersions about my character, despite having never seen me before. People would chew me out for policies that I could not change. You get the idea. I’m one of the lucky ones, being a temporary seasonal worker. I don’t have to work this sort of job year-in, yearout like this Applebee’s employee used to. What these people don’t seem to understand is that our entire job is to serve them and that our employment depends on being considerate to everyone who walks into the establishment. It’s generally a thankless job — a thankless job that demands long hours and supplies small pay. So if you are embarrassed because one employee decided to rat out your unpleasantness to the Internet, tough. You kind of deserve it. It doesn’t matter who you are, what station in life you occupy, or how much money you make. We all learned the same lesson back in kindergarten — the very same lesson that that fellow Jesus Christ was famous for: “Do unto others as you would have done unto you.” Or, a translation for the modern day, “Don’t be a dick, bro.” So pay the tip. Say thank you when the cashier hands your credit card back. Try to understand when an employee apologetically says that he can’t override an item for a sale that finished the night before. They’re nice to you, as they are contractually obligated to be. And they put up with a lot of nastiness in return, usually just for doing their jobs. A little common courtesy to them in return goes a long way — and is generally the best possible way to avoid Internet-wide humiliation. Take that as a life lesson. Editorial Editor Caleb Hendrich is a senior journalism and political science double major. His columns appear Tuesdays in the Collegian. Letters and feedback can be sent to letters@collegian.com.

GUEST COLUMN Mr. Hendrich’s words last Tuesday were passionate and seductive. They also demonstrated that abortion is built solely on the vapors of wishful thinking. Lofty, empty words about power and rights don’t change the reality. Abortion is the act of exterminating undesirable human beings. It is not an exercise of power and

choice — those are exercised in the choice to have sex. Abortion is the scramble to avoid responsibility, the inevitable, necessary price of “rights.” To feed our sex lives, we avoid that truth. We tell ourselves the human in the womb is neither alive nor human. We parasitize the suffering of raped women

and the ideals of equality. We revive arguments that history has condemned so that we may sit in judgment over those we find undesirable. And, as Mr. Hendrich did last Tuesday, we tell ourselves that we admire those who did the same to us and deigned to let us live. This is the greatest self-decep-

tion. Because if someone threatens us with rape or enslavement or murder — in other words, they fill this role we claim to admire — we scream and beg and fight and flee, and thus make hypocrites of ourselves. So long as the pro-choice movement speaks about the right to control one’s body, but instead

violates the bodies of, and steals choices from, the most helpless and defenseless, it is nothing but empty words and selfish fantasies. It fights for nothing but the corruption of power and freedom, and the complete absence of responsibility. Cole Buckon is a junior civil and environmental engineering major.

6 Tuesday, February 12, 2013 | The Rocky Mountain Collegian

“This is a position that has been around for 2,000 years, and regardless of your faith, it’s huge when a new one gets elected.”

Les beaux arts

Lizzy Zentner | Catholic senior history major

POPE | Next

pope could be non-European Continued from Page 1 and thought that this was a different way to go and a different way to do it,” said Zak Armstrong, president of the CSU student group Ram Catholic. While Catholics and the larger global community are still reeling from the news, CSU students interviewed remained steadfast in their faith. “I had a little renewed sense of hope today because I think with each new pope there comes a whole new breath of fresh air to the Catholic church,” said Lizzy Zentner, a Catholic senior history major. “It really depends who we get. We could get somebody who wants to stick to tradition, or we could get somebody who wants to transition into a new direction and cater to the 20-somethings who are really struggling in their faith.” Some Catholics have noted the timing of the announcement — two days before Lent — and are contemplating the possible religious significance. “I wouldn’t be surprised if that wasn’t a small part of the timing of the announcement, because Lent is a time for Catholics to really focus on prayer and fasting and alms giving,” Armstrong said. “I wouldn’t be surprised if he thought it was a good time for Catholics to pray about this and engage in the spiritual side of the papacy.” But the question remains: who will replace Benedict? CSU students and Catholics around the world have already begun to speculate what a new leader could mean for their com-

munity. “We are all hoping the next pope that gets elected can relate to us and can relate to the new generation of leaders that are going to emerge in the next 10 years or so,” Zentner said. “The Catholic church is a church of tradition, and I think as much as a lot of young Catholics would like to see some things change, I don’t know if now is when that will happen.” Klausner said he thinks the church has remained the same for the last two thousand years and that whoever the new pope is will continue that legacy. According to Armstrong, Benedict’s surprising departure could usher in another first for the Catholic church –– a non-European pope. “I know that people have speculated about this for a while, but the idea of the next pope coming from Latin America or Africa –– I think that would be a really good thing for the church,” Armstrong said. “European popes are nice and everything, but most Catholics live in those areas of the world. There’s definitely a lot of vibrancy in the areas of the world where the church is growing so much.” Zentner pointed to the historical significance of the news that has affected Catholics and the world at large. “This is a position that has been around for 2,000 years, and regardless of your faith, it’s huge when a new one gets elected,” he said. “It’s a very exciting thing to witness.” Senior Reporter Kate Simmons can be reached at news@collegian.com.

AUSTIN SIMPSON | COLLEGIAN

ZANDEN |

Olivia Polzer works on a lithograph print in the Visual Arts Building. Polzer is a senior majoring in art history.

But wait, she also plays music

Continued from Page 1 pursue at CSU, said Dr. Ho. Zanden was a student in Ho’s physical biochemistry class during her first semester. According to Dr. Ho, she did so well in the class that they asked her to become a teacher’s assistant for the upcoming semester. When it came time for advisors to be assigned to graduate students, Dr. Ho said the entire faculty wanted her as their pupil. “I’ve been lucky to get great students, and Crystal is no exception,” he said. As a graduate student, Zanden is taking over former Ph.D. student Dr. Megan Carter’s work on

halogen bonding. Halogens make up the 17th column on the periodic table, and include the elements fluorine, chlorine and bromine. According to Dr. Ho, Zanden’s thesis project is use halogen bonds to make nanomaterials which will come together to make a molecular machine. Fellow Ph.D. student Matthew Scholfield noted the level of commitment it takes to complete a graduate degree in biochemistry. “It’s not something that’s easy,” he said. “It’s something that’s very difficult. You have to spend a lot of time on it. It’s not an eight-to-five job, it’s a whenever job.” Despite her large workload and numerous responsi-

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bilities, Zanden said that she’s still just a regular teenager. In her spare time she enjoys watching movies, reading books and has just recently picked up playing the guitar. “It’s low work and high reward, because I know how to read music already and I play other instruments,” she said. Those other instruments include the oboe, clarinet and piano. Although she insists that she’s an average 18-year-old, her mentors hold her in high regard. “She is very mature and

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clearly fits well in the program,” Dr. Ho said. “The students look at her as one of their peers.” Even though she’s quite gifted, Zanden acts humbly when describing her life. “I had a lot of things come together at the right time,” she said. “I’ve had some good opportunities and a lot of luck. There are plenty of other smart people out there who could do the same thing.” Senior Reporter Sean Meeds can be reached at news@collegian.com.

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The Rocky Mountain Collegian | Tuesday, February 12, 2013

#Room-Antics

Daily Horoscope Nancy Black

JADE

TODAY’S BIRTHDAY (02/12/13). Your solar year begins a season of social fun, creativity and romance. For about five months, old partnerships are best, and promotions attract attention. A career choice in summer blazes trails for the rest of 2013 and beyond. Go play! To get the advantage, check the day’s rating: 10 is the easiest day, 0 the most challenging.

David Malki

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Rochelle Peeler

Meh Comex

ARIES (March 21-April 19) ––8–– Communications go the distance today. Present practical data, and get the word out. Share a commitment and inspire others, who take it the extra step. Listen for the gold. TAURUS (April 20-May 20) ––9–– New information emerges. Speak up; you could earn a bonus. New financial arrangements are possible. Keep track of spending, and create a game plan. Tap into hidden resources. GEMINI (May 21-June 20) ––7–– Convince your partner by inventing a fabulous fantasy. Discuss financial implications. More planning is a good idea. Ask probing questions about priorities. Proceed to the next level: design. CANCER (June 21-July 22) ––9–– Share discoveries and listen to your partners. Find ways to save time by working smarter. A small investment now produces high returns. Ask for more and get it. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) ––7–– It’s a good time to learn from someone you love, someone who comes up with brilliance. Do the homework you’ve been avoiding for an epiphany. This makes you irresistible. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) ––9–– Persuade a family member into going along for the ride. Bring home a happy surprise. Advance to the next level of your practical plan for prosperity. Keep a secret. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) ––8–– Your clever wit attracts new business. Gather information and learn quickly. The news is all good. Graduate to the next level. Allow your partner temporary veto power. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) ––9–– Follow a wise relative’s advice, and let words lead to surrender. Be vocal about what you want. Get materials for a creative project. Listen to your heart’s song. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) ––9–– An amazing discovery validates your work. Step outside the box. Others ask for your advice. Deliver your message in writing, or give a speech. Consult friends for feedback. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) ––9–– Watch for new information. Fan the flames by broadcasting it. Your past work speaks well for you. Accept assistance. Reveal your ideas in private. Record feelings in your journal. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) ––8–– There are new assignments coming in, and the money motivates. There’s a power play. Figure out how to go farther to resolve practical questions. Provide leadership and persuasion. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20) ––9–– Let others know what you want. Promise something better later and mean it. More becomes available. Invest in efficiency. You gain public recognition. Phone home if you’re away.

RamTalk

compiled by Kris Lawan

Daily cartoons and games available at Collegian.com. Send feedback to design@collegian.com.

Los Angeles Times Daily Crossword Puzzle

So, can we get a refund for a class if our teacher gets their lectures off Wikipedia?

I heard some guy ask another today, “Does your frat house allow ﬁrearms?”

To the girl that said, ”My parents won’t let me buy a Victoria’s Secret bra:” I think you’re old enough to make that decision.

Just watched a girl eat a one-pound chocolate bar in 25 minutes. Apparently I’m not taking my Valentine’s Day pregaming seriously enough.

Text your rants to 970-430-5547. Want more? The first RamTalk Book is officially in stock at the Student Media office in the Lory Student Center. Buy your copy for $10, or get one online for your Kindle or Nook.

Find out if you got in! “Like” us on Facebook. Search for The Rocky Mountain Collegian.

Submit RamTalk entries to ramtalk@collegian.com. Libelous or obscene submissions will not be printed. While your comment will be published anonymously, you must leave your name and phone number for verification.

Today’s RamTalk sponsored by:

Yesterday’s solution

Today’s Sudoku sponsored by:

Across 1 Employment agency listings 5 Fried Cajun veggie 9 WWII conference site 14 Billion extension 15 Steady guy 16 He hunted with a club in the “Odyssey” 17 Club used as a weapon, say 20 Nonagenarian actress White 21 Yeats or Keats 22 Color, as Easter eggs 23 Summer quencher 24 Dorm VIPs 27 Where Lux. is 29 Kid-friendly comfort food 36 Soothing additive 38 River through Sudan 39 Country rocker Steve 40 Sable maker, brieﬂy 41 Turn __ ear 43 Pub projectile 44 Former Portuguese territory in China 46 Preﬁx with -pus 47 Abates 48 Tests during which checking notes is allowed 51 Gymnast’s goal 52 Deli bread 53 Art on skin, slangily 56 Draw upon 59 Not as much 62 Calf-roping gear 64 Candid sort 68 Street toughs 69 Diamond Head’s island 70 Aromatic drinks 71 Go on tiptoe 72 Small songbird 73 Wine area near Turin Down 1 “Star Wars” gangster 2 No longer squeaky 3 Xbox battle game 4 Told to go 5 Asian tie 6 Barbie’s guy 7 Grating voice 8 One might get stuck in a jam 9 Video-sharing website

Yesterday’s solution

Today’s Crossword sponsored by:

10 Radius’s limb 11 Committed perjury 12 Randall who played Felix Unger 13 Chip in a chip 18 Supermodel Banks 19 Marsh stalk 25 Tolstoy’s Karenina 26 Snowmobile brand 28 “__ and weep!”: poker winner’s cry 30 Take back 31 Smart guy? 32 More like Felix Unger 33 African countries on the Mediterranean, e.g. 34 Mediation agcy. 35 Congeals 36 Target practice supply 37 “... one giant __ for mankind” 42 Cunning 45 Washington Monument, for one 49 Universal blood type, for short 50 Related to ﬂying 54 Had lunch in 55 Foot bones 56 Letter carrier’s org. 57 Leave speechless 58 Marine eagle 60 Vegas event 61 Kindergartner’s reward 63 Tiny bit 65 Wanted-poster letters 66 Sailor’s pronoun 67 Attila, notably

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8 Tuesday, February 12, 2013 | The Rocky Mountain Collegian

“Their season has basically boiled down to coming after us, and we will be giving it right back.” Paul Jenkins | senior forward

Hockey seniors get their last chance to hit CU By QUENTIN SICKAFOOSE The Rocky Mountain Collegian Skates will be laced up, and gloves may very well come off. According to the CSU hockey seniors, it has all come down to this. For the last time this season, the Rams will faceoff against their rivals at CU-Boulder for a classic Rocky Mountain battle. However, this final matchup with the Buffaloes will be on the ice of the Budweiser Events Center in front of an Orange Out crowd expected

to be the biggest attendance turnout of the year. “It’s different at the Bud Center. This is our game; we get to be surrounded by 4,000 CSU fans screaming for us,” forward Paul Jenkins said. “You feel like you’re in the show, in the pros, playing on that big sheet of ice in a huge arena.” Tonight will mark the fourth meeting between the hockey teams this season. CSU has skated away victorious in all three previous meetings, outscoring the Buffaloes 23-6 on the year,

an advantage that the Rams say could never be too big. “That’s the way with any rivalry in any sport, there’s no love for CU at all,” forward Ben Smoot said. “You don’t just want to beat them, you want to embarrass them.” For Smoot, Jenkins and the five other seniors on the CSU roster, tonight will not only be their final shot at an age-old rival, but possibly the last chance to play the game they love on a primetime level. “They’ve got to be ex-

Snuggles flanked by Ringo and Buttercup SNUGGLES |

Continued from Page 1 coat — can make all the difference to her patients. Snuggles is special, because unlike most horses, she has horrible eyesight. An infection as a colt caused her to completely lose vision in her left eye, while glaucoma and cataracts limit the sight in her right eye. According to Dr. Cynthia Powell, Snuggles’ Fort Collins veterinarian, glaucoma causes a buildup of fluids, which creates excessive pressure in the eye and can lead to either gradual or sudden blindness. Snuggles first traveled from Lubbock, Texas, to the CSU Veterinary Hospital in 2008 for a surgical procedure that reduced the pressure to a safe level. Snuggles returned to Fort Collins last

week for a checkup to ensure that she doesn’t need further treatment. Luckily, her sight does not stop her from doing her job. When asked why they chose to make the 600-mile road trip — during which Snuggles was accompanied by two other miniature horses, Ringo and Buttercup, who keep her company and are collectively called “The Three Musketeers” — Tatum and Jones explained that it was initially because Fort Collins was the closest facility capable of offering the procedure. “(We) fell in love! Fell in love with the doctors, in love with the school, in love with the town,” Tatum said. The facility provided great care and communication throughout Snuggles’

treatment, according to Jones. Friday’s check-up went very well, according to Dr. Powell. Her eye pressure has remained at a safe level since her surgery, and other than receiving daily eye drops in her right eye, no further medical treatment is currently necessary. This was great news for the energetic eight-year-old. Miniature horses typically live between 25 to 30 years, so Snuggles will be busy brightening people’s day for many years to come. Snuggles, Ringo and Buttercup also attended the 1870 dinner at CSU Saturday night to have their heartwarming story heard by hundreds of attendees. Collegian Writer Isabella Heepke can be reached at news@collegian.com.

cited about it. This will be the last time they ever play in front of a crowd this size, and it’s against the Buffs. I expect them to step up for a great game and walk away with no regrets,” CSU coach Kelly Newton said. CSU is currently sitting in the No. 8 position of the west region of ACHA Division II, awaiting a regional tournament appearance that will give them a chance to make it to nationals. On the other hand, CU-Boulder is holding a 4-16-1 record and has been

EVENT DETAILS When: 7:30 p.m. Where: Budweiser Events Center What: Orange-Out

eliminated from all possibility of postseason play. “I think they’re going to be playing for pride; they don’t want to be swept four games in a row by us,” Newton said. “I expect them to come out running and gunning; we can’t underestimate them by any means.”

A full season sweep over CU-Boulder is something that no current member of the CSU hockey club has experienced, including Newton, who has served as head coach for seven years. “Their season has basically boiled down to coming after us, and we will be giving it right back,” Jenkins said. “It’s going to be a lot of to take it to them one last time.” Club Sports Beat Reporter Quentin Sickafoose can be reached at sports@collegian. com.

CSU gets physical, noticed by crowd and coaches RANKED |

Continued from Page 1 Losses by Minnesota, Missouri, Ole Miss, North Carolina State and Cincinnati, to name a few which received more votes than the Rams last week helped CSU as the Rams took care of business in their only game of the week on the road against Nevada. The ranking in the top 25 marks the building of a CSU program that has

been years in the making. After making the NCAA tournament last year for the first time since 2003, the Rams have become a force in the Mountain West Conference, winning six of eight games in conference play en route to a 19-4 overall record. CSU’s position as one of the most physical teams in the country likely helped its case in making the top 25 as the Rams now lead

the nation in rebounds per game at 42.4 while boasting the No. 15-ranked RPI in the country. The USA Today/ Coaches top 25 poll is the other poll released every Monday and the Rams have also been ranked No. 24 in that poll, receiving 79 votes. Assistant Sports Editor Andrew Schaller can be reached at sports@collegian. com.