Valentine's Day Spitefullness

By Mariko Mosher
Tuesday, February 14, 2012

ALBANY - Valentine's Day has not been filled with love so far for four Sigma Delta Tau women. They have raised zero dollars and have only received spitefulness in their quest to raise money for the prevention of child abuse.

"People are being completely heartless. I get it you hate Valentine's Day, but this is for the children," says Jackie Kramer.

The girls had been hoping to grab a table inside on this chilly day in February, but the other clubs beat them to it. They posted up their signs and treats outside and hoped for the best on a day where everyone seemed to be in a horrible mood.

"It's ridiculous," says Jessica Dubowski. "I mean you don't need a boyfriend. You can either sit inside and be miserable or make the best of it."

The sorority girls, dressed in pink and red for the day, are heading out tonight to have a good time no matter what the day brings them.

Despite the anger the girls had seen so far, Khang Nguyen passed by the table with a big smile on his face. "I was going to just forget about getting a gift and apologize to my girl, but I figured she might slap me."

Nguyen did a last minute purchase on New Karner Road this morning when he spotted a man selling roses for $25. "I guess I got lucky catching him," he said.

Nguyen did not donate to the girls because he had no money left, but he said he would've if he had some cash on him.

Andy Harira says Valentine's Day is more than just a commercial holiday for making money. "It's not only about buying gifts. It's about loving those around you and showing them that at least one time out of the year."

The sorority girls agreed and said they would never use the holiday to gain money for their own purpose. It's all about the kids for them.

"A friend of mine told me this morning that he feels it's important to do more than just buy gifts and to find other ways to show your loved one you care," said Kramer.

Her friend, Chase, was disappointed after he wrote a poem for his girlfriend. She said she would've preferred chocolates.

Lenne Alder of the Newman Association on campus, like the Sigma Delta Tau, set up a stand to sell chocolates and cards to raise money. She didn't understand why her table wasn't having much luck either. "I mean, they're good last minute gifts," she said.

Frank Le, a sophomore, stopped by the sorority table with his eyes on the Hershey's Chocolate Kisses. "The best part about Valentine's Day is the discounted candy afterward," he said. Le had no problem spending a dollar for a bag of chocolates and a good cause.

"It's just a day to be happy about life honestly. If you don't have someone then find something that makes you happy, even if that means buying candy for a good cause," says Dubowski.

"Happy Valentine's Day and tell your friends," the sorority said in unison.