Point-Counterpoint: Two Lovers, but Only One Loves Christmas

In this week's Point-Counterpoint, Public Relations Manager Andrew "Shaggy" Kinback sticks pine needles in the bare toes of those who love Christmas. His beloved fiance Jonelle picks the pine needles from her feet and offers her precious Shaggy a candy cane. The Vent Section team wishes you the merriest of holidays, whether you're a fan of them or not!

Shaggy and Jonelle, I think in your few semesters with Whim, you've made as many positive contributions to this magazine as anyone. I'm honored that you've both written for this section and for this magazine. Jonelle, you're doing a stellar job as Executive Assistant; you're always here when we need you. And Shaggy, you've got that kind of humor that's like roquefort cheese. You have to be exposed a few times before you really understand it, but it tastes good no matter what your preconceptions were. My best wishes are extended to both of you. - Jeff

Holiday Appreciation

The holiday season can be a lonely time and this loneliness can be even greater if you are away from the people you love. As a matter of fact, any day on a military deployment can be filled by this loneliness. As we have thousands of Americans abroad, or even in the U.S., away from their families and friends, we should reflect on a way to make this time of year a little easier for them.

Andy, you're one of the few people that can convince me that the Armed Forces isn't a bunch of people like those that were portrayed in "Platoon" or "Salvador," the other being my grandfather, and that's the biggest compliment this quasi-pacifist can come up with. Rachel is lucky as hell to have you, and I wish both of you the best in your continuing happiness. I know it'll grow to heights you two never imagined. Thanks again. -Jeff

Traveling, Eating, and Passing Out

It's that time again, boys and girls. Pretty soon people will be cutting down trees, buying presents, and drinking excessive amounts of egg nog. Yep, Thanksgiving is in the air alright.

T-day is a time to be with your family, enjoy the taste of non-RU food, and then realize that your family members are still all a bunch of nutjobs, and you have to get back to school as soon as humanly possible. But while you're home, you want to see your friends and tell them about all the fun you've been having since your professors decided to pile on the projects and term papers.

Bryan, I gotta say, you're one of the most unorthodox writers on this campus, but you've done nothing but support this section, this magazine, and free speech on campus. But you might want to keep the flaming, naked women jumping out of buildings in the Tartan ;). Good luck you, bud. -Jeff

I Hate Snow!

You know what? Snow sucks. I hate it. I'd like to take up permanent residence far enough south so I would never have to see a white Christmas again. I know it sounds horrible. But I have my reasons.

Well you know what, Amanda? I love snow! Snow is the best...thing...ever. If I hear one more time about how much you hate snow I'm gonna do something. Something bad. And don't think you can escape snow being far south...well maybe if you went to Florida...but aren't you too young to move there? You don't want sun spots and wrinkles deep as the sea before you're 30, believe me!

But seriously, thanks for everything this semester, Amanda. You've saved my section more times than I can count. Best wishes to you. -Jeff