Students host ‘butt-grabbing’ event

Butts are everywhere. Cigarette butts, that is. And sophomore Bryan Messersmith wants to do something about it. \nLast Saturday, Messersmith’s group, the IU Cigarette Cleanup Organization – also known as “The Butts Club” – hosted an event to pick up cigarette butts. He said the group plans to host more events in the future. \nThe club was recently reestablished after last year’s president of the club became too busy to continue running the organization, Messersmith said.\nMessersmith, the club’s secretary, said he volunteered to take over. \n“It’s a neat idea,” he said. “It’s a good way to give back to campus.” \nThe organization did not accomplish much last year. Despite the short amount of time left in this school year, Messersmith said he is determined to get something done during the spring semester. \nDuring the event Saturday, four or five groups were assigned a section of campus in which to pick up trash.\n“So we shouldn’t throw things on the ground and later have to pick it up ourselves,” sophomore Devin Carpentersaid. “Don’t throw stuff on the ground.” \nThe organization will focus on cleaning up around highly-trafficked buildings, such as Ballantine Hall. \nMessersmith plans on having one or two clean-up days each semester. \n“It’s pretty bad now, but after Little 5 there will be bodies in ditches and stuff,” student Matt Wynn said before the event. \nMessersmith hopes the group acquires about 30 students after he spends a little more time advertising for the organization. More executive positions will be available after they receive more interest. \n“It’ll look really good on your resume,” Messersmith said. “Anyone who wants a leadership position can get one as long as they think of a title.” \nSophomore Donny Wirt’s suggestion for the position of “Assistant to the Regional Manager,” in reference to the popular TV show character, Dwight K. Shrute from “The Office,” drew laughter from the group. \nMessersmith said the club, sponsored by Chipotle, looks forward to more student involvement in the upcoming years. \n“Next year we will definitely hang more signs up and try harder to get the word out about our organization,” Messersmith said.