Don't Throw. Ask Us Why.

As Hey Day festivities commence, keep in mind Class of '09 Treasurer AJ Snyder's plea, which made the listserv rounds last night:

So Hey Day is tomorrow and one of the biggest questions that has been on everyone's minds is why throwing things like ketchup and other condiments a big deal. Students argue that it is a tradition, it is fun, and it is harmless.

Well aside from the fact that this tradition has only been around since 2002 when the Palladium closed, University sources have informed us that the condition of Locust Walk is so poor that the majority of it will have to be replaced if it has to be power washed again because of the extreme mess. You all have seen the walk recently and know that it has seen better days. Broken or missing bricks can be found all throughout it and there isn't a week that goes by that you haven't seen someone from facilities trying to fix spots. Further, this power washing that has to occur to clean up after the mess we leave behind not only dislodges more bricks, but also causes significant wear and tear on its surface.

The facts are simple. By participating in throwing projectiles this Hey Day, you are personally guaranteeing the further decay and destruction of Locust Walk. On this final day, we as fellow students and supporters of this cherished tradition ask that you show pride for this University and consideration for its campus. If you insist on getting messy this Hey Day, do it at home where you can take responsibility for your own rowdiness.

For those who are interested:

Brief Summary: The Palladium was a bar and restaurant that was located in what is now known as the ARCH Building (36th and Locust). During Hey Day, seniors would crowd the bar in order to literally toast the Juniors as they marched down Locust Walk. In 2003, the Palladium was closed which began the Senior protest and recent tradition of throwing condiments during Hey Day.