Change is the one common thread that has run through Orange & Blue. This issue carries on with that tradition.

Readers may find some of the content in this issue disturbing.  For example, rape is a topic that all too often gets swept under the rug—not to be discussed in polite society. But it is a serious problem for young adults, especially those on their own for the first time. The signals received in social situations can be confusing even for those with experience. But “no” means just that, even when you think it may really mean “maybe.” Rape is not sex. Rape is physical aggression, and it is against the law. Jennifer Littleton’s “Letter to a Rapist” shows that even gray areas are black and white where the law’s concerned.

You might say the law is concerned about Scott Camil. At least some law enforcement types have been concerned with him in the past. Scott Camil is an activist. If he sees something he feels is wrong, he goes after it with the tenacity of a pit bull. He is one of the few who have actually earned the right to speak. Camil paid for his right with blood shed in service to his country, and while we may not agree with all he says, we owe him a listen. The contemporary issues Camil speaks of may seem unrelated, but they have to do with the conflict between individual choice and the collective will. I think these issues need to be addressed with open minds and without emotional interference. Call me crazy, but I still believe in the rights and responsibilities of the individual.

Speaking of crazy, I always figured people who jumped out of perfectly good airplanes had a screw loose. Life has enough risks. Why seek more? Well, after reading Eric Justin’s “Great Gig in the Sky,” and looking at those amazing photos, I’m having second thoughts.

One of the things I’m not having second thoughts about is how fortunate I am to have worked with the people on this issue’s staff. Their hard work and devotion to the magazine made my job not only easier, but very enjoyable. Kris Herzog, our new faculty adviser, and Don-na Davis, our new business manager, have generously allowed us to draw from their professional experience. My predecessor, Megan Katovich, gave me much valuable advice as well as moral support.And last but not least, I want to pay homage to my good friend, mentor and our former faculty adviser, Bill McKeen. Bill has been an icon at Orange & Blue since he took over the job from the magazine’s creator, Ben Patterson. From everybody at Orange & Blue—thanks, pal.

  Al Zehner, Editor