Forgive us if we’re not as chipper as usual.
We’ve reached that lull in the semester between Valentine’s Day and Spring Break, with nothing but work to look forward to in the meantime. That and SG elections. Huzzah.
On the bright side, our typical Florida weather has returned, giving us something to be happy about as we scurry between classes. In that spirit of hope, we present you with the we-know-there’s-a-light-at-the-end-of-this-tunnel edition of...Darts & Laurels.
And, no, we’re not talking about discounted holiday candy.
While we’re on the topic of bad decisions, let’s take a look at our governor’s desire to reject $2.4 billion of federal funds which would go toward building high-speed rail lines.
He’s turning away from a viable transportation option which would create new jobs while helping the environment and possibly alleviating some of the traffic clogging Florida’s roads. The state’s share of the money — $300 million — was already approved by former Gov. Charlie Crist.
Wait. Where’s the downside? Weren’t you supposed to get us back to work?
His stubborn refusal to take a risk with potentially huge benefits forces us to launch this high-speed even-your-fellow-party-members-are-banging-their-heads-against-the-wall-over-you DART at Gov. Rick Scott.
We could have it worse, though. At least our government officials aren’t running away from the situation entirely.
In a response to state Republicans’ plan to cut union rights for public employees, Wisconsin’s state Senate Democrats fled to Illinois as an effective boycott. Their decision may have been influenced by three days of huge protests against the measure, but it still seems childish. When asked why they ran, the senators’ answers amounted to a playground response: They didn’t play nice, so we’re taking our toys home.
We understand the feeling of injustice, but democracy only works when people talk things out. That’s why we’re throwing a put-your-big-boy-and-girl-pants-on DART at Wisconsin’s Democratic state senators.
Besides, the Republicans won’t be keeping their jobs for very long if the measure is that unpopular.
According to the digital readout, UF found a popular way to help the environment. If you haven’t noticed the water bottle-friendly fountains in the Reitz Union, give them a try. Not only do they cut back on waste, they’re helping shave time off refilling bottles. For making it convenient to get a little greener, we’re giving a we’ll-be-watching-that-counter-click-up-with-pride LAUREL to the Reitz Union.
It’s surprising to see what a difference a little spout can make.
It’s also surprising to watch virtual unknowns win famous awards. For keeping us entertained with buzzworthy Grammy winners for Album of the Year and Best New Artist, we’re reluctantly handing over a we-still-have-no-clue-who-Esperanza-Spalding-is LAUREL to the National Recording Academy.
That’s all for this round.
Remember: The beach is only a few weeks away, Gators.
