We all know that the upcoming weekend is supposed to be the Veishea celebration. But despite most of Iowa State’s disappointment that there will be no Veishea parade, no food stands and that “Stars Over Veishea” has to be called “Stars Over ISU,” it’s important to remember one thing in particular: Veishea will be back next year.

Considering that Iowa State, Ames and anyone else who is involved with Veishea only has to wait one year for its return, it’s imperative that everyone spends what would have been this year’s Veishea weekend like any other.

• To students: Try to display a certain amount of mellowness while on Welch Avenue this weekend.

We know the riot initially began because of the breakup of a house party, but it was also fueled by drunk people coming out of the bars and a general lack of self-control. In order to respect the return of Veishea next year, the wise thing to do would be to spend the night on Welch hanging out at the bar, eating a gyro and then heading home for bed to prevent a hangover.

And if there does happen to be, by some cosmic occurrence, a disturbance, the best policy is certainly to avoid the situation altogether. That means not only refraining from joining in, but also from standing and watching. The best, although not exciting, thing to do would be to go home.

• To the police: Considering last year’s incident, we know that it would be really easy to assume there’s going to be another riot this year. But instead of taking the obvious path, lighten up — just a little. Don’t presume that the students will riot again — most of us just want to hang out with our friends at the bar. The vast majority of students will not take for granted the second chance we’ve been given. We know extra officers with extra equipment will be present on Welch Avenue on Friday night, but we hope they don’t behave any differently unless it’s absolutely necessary.

And if for some reason you do have to use the extra gear, please remember to only use it on the people who are really doing the damage. Innocent bystanders could be spared tear gas in the eyes.

Veishea is something that makes Iowa State different from other schools. It gives students, faculty, alumni and Ames residents a chance to celebrate the university and all of its great accomplishments. Many people dedicate hours of time and effort to make this unique celebration happen at Iowa State. Any incidents or disturbances this year would surely put Veishea’s future at an even higher risk.

Both students and authorities are responsible for making sure that doesn’t happen.