One should believe everything that they write on those signs ... that's what I've learned since returning to classes here on campus. Every day, we parade back and forth past the pallets of bricks, mess of orange fencing, and not so long-departed portable traffic barriers, with some caution tape mixed in for good measure.

The fountain that used to grace the backside of Commons Dining Hall was completely disassembled while we were on summer break. RPI claims they are working on the site "for [our] future enjoyment," but many allege that, and I quote, "I haven't seen a single brick move." Well, I’m here to say that I can prove they've moved. I can also prove that without ever touching the massive eyesore and personal insult to the esteemed David Haviland '64 with a ten foot pole, RPI can actually fulfill its promise on those now notorious bright red and white signs.

The disputed phrase is that they are working on it "for [our] future enjoyment." From what I’ve heard, nearly every time I walk past the fountain, there is disgusted talk of how they built the fountain for a media photo shoot and want to be able to throw something together that resembles the fountain in all their pamphlets for Accepted Students Day.

Well, unbeknownst to many students is the fact that the pile of orange fencing and bricks already contribute immense amounts of enjoyment to those who are living in Sharp Hall.

Yes, for some unknown reason, I find it hilarious when a suitemate tells me of bricks being hurled at him by wee Troylets as he comes back with clean laundry. So there, I can prove that both the bricks were moved and that the "fountain" is contributing to students' enjoyment.

The only thing I have yet to decide on is whether the cost of all the therapy for my suitemate is worth my laughs.

Hmm, let me think about it ... totally worth it.

Maybe the kids are right; maybe the bricks moving between 11 pm and 4 am doesn't count for the sign's promise. As much as I enjoy late night stories of dodging the bored Troylets' projectiles, I guess I could deal with the fountain being just another boring waterfall that has water and all that stuff.

I’m worried that RPI won't be able to pull the fountain together, even though it's awfully close to family weekend; without the fountain running over the weekend for a few days, what will students have to complain about for the next three weeks?