Forget Lyft and Uber, when you are stuck on South Limestone at 3 a.m. and the Mad Mush staff has kicked you out of your last resort of warmth when it is subzero degrees outside, you know the only guy you can really count on to scoop you up for just $1 is Radar.
You do not think twice before hopping into his 14-seat white van, even if you are all alone. He always greets you by opening the door with a classic “good morning” even when it is 11 p.m. as he argues with you that your solo cup is indeed an open container and you cannot bring it in.
Some of the most valuable lessons you have learned in college have stemmed from conversations you have had with Radar during that awkward 10-minute car ride home. He has talked you into dumping that guy you have been dating for far too long and is not afraid to show some tough love when you are uncontrollably sobbing for some unknown reason. He has even told you outrageous stories from his “glory days” that you are certain he made up although he swears they happened.
Your relationship with Radar is somewhat similar to a married couple. While at some point he has changed your name in his phone to “DO NOT ANSWER” and your voicemail box is full of long, violent messages because you ignored his calls, he has never given up on you. And you have forgiven him when all of the sudden 20 minutes turns into an hour and even when he occasionally forgets your name.
Though no one is exactly sure what has inspired him to provide such a service to the drunk and hopeless population of UK students, we sure are thankful for the many times he has rescued us from paying those dreaded cab fares on a Friday night.
Radar, Rades, Rader, Steve. Whatever you call him, you are not afraid to admit that other than your dad, he is probably the most stable man in your life. He has had your back through thick and thin, and for that you will be eternally grateful.
