N D DAILY NEWS
NEW BUSINESS PROGRAM SORTS STUDENTS 05 TikTok dad: Summer Clayton aims to be a father figure.11
Soccer mentor: Lindsey Blom uses life experiences to mentor at Ball State.08
‘The
Hair Lady’ For a little over a year, Kaitlynee Buis has been cutting inmates’ hair at the Delaware County Jail. 09
Delaware County Jail inmate Brandin Hernak gets a haircut from hairstylist Kaitlynne Buis Sept. 27 at the Delaware County jail. MYA CATALINE, DN
10.26.2023
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DNNews
10.26.23
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Did you miss it? Catch up on the news from Oct. 23-24 and take a look at upcoming events...
BallStateDailyNews.com Ball State starts largest AP: Johnson elected capital campaign as new House Speaker
BALL STATE UNIVERSITY MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS, PHOTO PROVIDED
Oct. 23: “Our Call to Beneficence” is Ball State University’s largest capital campaign in history with a fundraising goal of $350 million. Campaign goals are student opportunity and success; the academic experience; and campus and community impact. More than $225 million was already raised before the announcement.
Two football players win MAC honors
DALTON CLARK, DN
Oct. 23: Redshirt junior running back Marquez Cooper was named the MAC Player of the Week after his 162 rushing yards in Ball State’s win over Central Michigan Oct. 21 while senior outside linebacker Sidney Houston Jr. was named Defensive Player of the Week for picking up two sacks and three tackles for loss in the win. VOL. 103 ISSUE: 11 CONTACT THE DN Newsroom: 765-285-8245 Editor: 765-285-8249, editor@bsudailynews.com
The Ball State Daily News (USPS-144-360), the Ball State student newspaper, is published Thursdays during the academic year except for during semester and summer breaks. The Daily News is supported in part by an allocation from the General Fund of the university and is available free to students at various campus locations.
EDITORIAL BOARD Daniel Kehn, Editor-in-chief Kyle Smedley, Print Managing Editor, Co-Sports Editor Olivia Ground, Digital Managing Editor Grayson Joslin, Director of Recruitment Abigail Denault, News Editor Elijah Poe, Co-Sports Editor Zach Carter, Associate Sports Editor Hannah Amos, Lifestyles Editor Ella Howell, Associate Lifestyles Editor and Copy Editor Kate Farr, Opinion Editor Elaine Ulsh, Associate Opinion Editor Jacob Boissy, Video Editor Brisa Porter, Associate Video Editor
Oct. 25: Rep. Mike Johnson (R-LA) was elected House Speaker Oct. 25. He was elected on the first ballot after being nominated with a vote of 221-212. He is the fourth republican nominee for the position for the position following the removal of Rep. Kevin McCarthy, who was ousted from the position nearly three weeks ago.
Kennedy wins MAC player of the week
Oct. 23: Ball State women’s volleyball redshirt freshman Aniya Kennedy has won the MAC West Player of the Week award for the fourth time this season. Over the Cardinals’ three matches between Oct. 17-21, the outside attacker led the conference with 60 kills (4.62 kills per set average).
Emma Plank, Associate Social Media Editor Mya Cataline, Photo Editor Andrew Berger, Associate Photo Editor Meghan Holt, Visual Editor Jessica Bergfors, Visual Editor Lisa Renze-Rhodes, Adviser TO ADVERTISE • (765) 285-8256 or dailynewsads@bsu.edu • Hours: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon-Fri. • ballstatedaily.com/advertise TO SUBSCRIBE Call 765-285-8134 between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Mon. -Fri. Subscription rates: $45 for one year. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Daily News, AJ278, Ball State University, Muncie, IN 47306 JOIN THE DAILY NEWS Stop by room 278 in the Art and Journalism Building. All undergraduate majors accepted and no prior experience is necessary.
CORRECTION
In the Oct. 19 issue of the Ball State Daily News, there was no credit given on pg. 1. The photo was taken by Photo Editor Mya Cataline and the photo illustration was designed by Visual Editor Meghan Holt. To submit a correction, email editor@bsudailynews.com.
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4-DAY WEATHER
FORECAST Ian Kowalski, Weather forecaster, Benny Weather Group
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
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THIS WEEK: Next week will feature less rain and cooler weather, with clear skies throughout the week. The start to the work week will have highs in the mid 40s, with temperatures jumping into the 50s by the weekend.
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Waking Up with Cardinal Weather is Ball State University’s first and only morning mobile show focused on getting your ready for the day through local news, weather and lifestyle trends. Waking Up with Cardinal Weather airs every Friday morning at 8 a.m. at @cardinalwx live on Facebook.
DNNews
10.26.23
Turning Houses Into Home The Miller College of Business introduces a new program to increase student engagement. 4
SOAR
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Campus
Charlene Fletcher to speak at Ball State Butler University Assistant Professor of History Charlene Fletcher will come to Ball State University to speak about Black women and confinement in the 19th century from 3-4 p.m. Nov. 2 in Cardinal Hall A at the L.A. Pittenger Student Center. The event is part of the Indiana Humanities’ “Advancing Racial Equity” Speakers Bureau.
State
Chief environmental law judge retires Mary Davidsen, Office of Environmental Adjudication (OEA) director and chief environmental law judge, has announced her retirement. She has been in the position of director since 2003 when she was appointed by Indiana Gov. Eric J. Holcomb. She has also served with the Sagamore American Inn of Court and a probono initiative of the Indianapolis Bar Association.
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OLIVIA GROUND, DN ILLUSTRATION
National
AP: Hurricane Otis hits Mexico A Category 5 hurricane known as Hurricane Otis hit Acapulco and surrounding coastal towns on Wednesday. In response, Mexico’s army and navy deployed more than 8,000 troops to the area with specialized equipment to aid in rescues. The U.S. National Hurricane Center said Tuesday Otis had maximum sustained winds of 160 mph (260 kph).
ON BALLSTATEDAILYNEWS.COM: COMMUNITY RUNS IN 23RD ANNUAL CHASE CHARLIE 5K
DNNews
10.26.23
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Business students are sorted into “houses” to compete in challenges and build community. Megan Rogers Reporter Christina Mathis describes herself “as untraditional of a student as it comes.” She began her college journey at Ivy Tech when she earned her associate degree in Business Administration. She then transferred to Ball State University for the spring of 2020 semester, only to then spend a year in Florida for an internship while studying online. Her first semester in Muncie was last spring as a junior by academic standing. Because she arrived on campus so late in her college journey, she said she didn’t feel a connection to the community, nor did she feel very involved. When Mathis was given a chance to help students who are new to campus, she knew she had to take it. This chance came in the form of a new program through the Miller College of Business. Mathis, a business administration major, was informed last year of a new “house” program the college wanted to implement for incoming students this year.
At the end of the day, if I can help one student, who had no friends coming into this, make two or three friends that carry them through the next three years of college, that means more to me than anything.” - SOPHIA CHAPLIN, Leader of House Black
The idea for this new program came from Angela Nickoli, a lecturer for the Success, Opportunity, Acumen, and Readiness (SOAR) classes for the Miller College of Business. She said she got the basics of the idea from a colleague who was telling her about a school project she was working on. This program sorts students (mostly first year students, for this round at least) enrolled in the Introduction to Miller College and World Business (MCOB 100) course into four different houses– Red, Grey, Black and White–based on the results of a strength assessment test. Houses have close to equal numbers of those with different strengths. Students from each house compete in challenges to earn points for their respective houses. These range from larger competitions, like a recent field day activity, to competing to put in the most hours volunteering for Heart of Indiana United Way, an organization that works to “advance education, income and health for all,” according to their website.
Students can also earn points for their house by logging their day-to-day activities. These points come from four sections: academic achievements, professional development, social activities and self-care. A goal of this program is to allow students to help their house in ways that appeal to them, Nickoli said. Part of this includes having wide ranges for what counts for each category. Academic achievements can be anything they have done academically that they are proud of or working towards academic goals by visiting the writing center or attending study tables. The professional development category is defined as anything that helps students build their resume, like making a visit to the career center or going to guest speaker lectures. Social events can include extracurriculars, volunteering or attending house events. Self-care includes working out, going for walks, meditating or doing things like having a skin or hair care routine. Students self-report these activities through surveys. “They are helping their houses in ways that feel authentic to them,” Nickoli said. The winning house for the week receives rewards for their efforts. So far, these rewards have included snacks from the Student Success Center and Ball State swag. Joel Whitesel, the director of student retention and success for the Miller College of Business, said having this program, with students automatically put into it when they arrive at Ball State, is meant to help them feel like they already have somewhere they belong, without ever having to seek something out. He said they wanted it to help foster feelings of inclusion, engagement and involvement outside of what you can get with academics. In order to help students get involved and plan events, upperclassmen house leaders have been appointed for each house. Mathis became one of these leaders when she heard about the program. Mathis, who is the leader of House White, thinks these aspects of the program help students feel more comfortable on campus. “The main goal is student retention and getting them to want to stay and getting them active on campus,” Mathis said. “Because I know that transition is hard.” Other House Leaders Abbie Fillers and Haley Spurgeon said they have already seen the impact on students in the form of friendships and school spirit. They have seen seemingly very different students become fast friends while attending activities and have seen students in their houses excited to go to school events to earn points for their houses. “It’s just so beautiful seeing all the people come together and become friends,” Fillers said. “You never would have thought that would happen. But it did, and it does.” House Black’s leader, Sophia Chaplin, has noticed students who are often more quiet and reserved are the ones who are getting involved with the program. She said she thinks this has had a big impact on helping them make more friends.
First-year business major Evan Zachary, house white, poses with his house’s jar next to a display of the house challenge leaderboard in the Whitinger Business Building Oct. 20. House Grey won the “House v. House Field Day Challenge.” ABIGAIL DENAULT, DN
Jars of each house, filled with points earned by students in the Office of Student Success and Engagement in the Miller College of Business Oct. 20. Students are sorted into houses--Black, Grey, White and Red--based on an assessment they take at the start of their time in the program. ABIGAIL DENAULT, DN Students in the program said they have felt the impact of it. Evan Zachary, a member of House White, said he has benefited from the professional development side of it. “I like making connections with anybody and everybody,” Zachary said. “It’s fun being able to branch out and meet new people.” Alternatively, Phil Nunn, a member of House Grey, has enjoyed the social aspect of it the most. He said oftentimes the size of a class can limit the amount one is able to actually get to know people. By breaking the class down into smaller groups, he said they are able to better “unite” people. “Being a part of a house and having that shared
connection on a little bit of a deeper level I think kind of brings the best out of people,” Nunn said. Across both the house leaders and the administration helping to run the program, a common, ultimate goal has emerged: helping students connect and feel like they have a place. “At the end of the day, if I can help one student who had no friends coming into this make two or three friends that carry them through the next three years of college, that means more to me than anything,” Chaplin said. Contact Megan Rogers with comments at megan.rogers@bsu.edu.
A path to recovery 05
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DNNews
New addiction treatment locator allows users to compare options. Isabella Fuller Reporter On Sept. 29, Indiana Gov. Eric J. Holcomb announced the launch of a new program, Shatterproof Treatment Atlas. This online platform connects Indiana residents fighting substance use disorders to a free, user-friendly and confidential dashboard that displays and compares programs. National Recovery Month has been held in September since 1989. Its primary goal is to advocate for the innovation of treatment and recovery methods, celebrate the strength of the United States’ recovery community, and honor the unwavering commitment of communities and service providers who enable recovery daily. According to its website, Shatterproof is a nonprofit devoted to fighting the addiction crisis
across the U. S. The organization said its mission is to save lives by transforming the treatment system, eradicating addiction-associated stigmas and supporting communities. Jennifer VanSkyock, program manager for Indiana University Health’s Addiction Treatment and Recovery Center (ATRC), said there is an importance to eradicating stigmas and providing a supportive community for people fighting addiction to fall back on. “We see a lot of judgment and criminalization of addiction, therefore, that stigma makes it difficult for people to reach out and seek services and support,” VanSkyock said. “If we learn how to understand addiction as a disease, if we stop judging it and stigmatizing it and if we remove barriers for people to get help, we’ve already improved so much.”
Harm reduction tells us communities that have these efforts have a higher chance of people entering treatment because we simply believe that person’s worthy.” - JENNIFER VANSKYOCK, Program manager for the Addiction Treatment Recovery Center
Program manager for the Addiction Treatment and Recovery Center Jennifer VanSkyock poses for a photo Oct. 24 in front of the center. VanSkyock has also served as the Behavioral Health Program Manager since 2016. ABIGAIL DENAULT, DN
VanSkyock said people suffering from substance use disorder must be met halfway during their recovery process. She said the addiction and recovery community must know they have support and a judgment-free environment to change and grow. Although new programs and funding are highly valued, their effectiveness is limited when individuals are reluctant to seek help in the first place. “Harm reduction tells us communities that have these efforts have a higher chance of people entering treatment because we simply believe that person’s worthy,” VanSkyock said. “We’re willing to invest something in keeping them alive.” According to Shatterproof’s website, Indiana has become the 13th state to partner with Shatterproof. Funding is provided by the Department of Mental Health and Addiction (DMHA) and will replace the state’s previous treatment locator. In addition to allocating funding for addiction prevention and treatment initiatives, DMHA partners with numerous healthcare providers and operates six psychiatric hospitals. After clicking the Shatterproof Treatment Atlas link, users will be directed to the program’s dashboard. The page features a search bar for entering location or facility names, a brief explanation of Atlas’ mission and personal recovery stories. Users will be prompted to take a 10-question, confidential Addiction Treatment Needs Assessment to individualize their results. Results are pulled from a comprehensive roster of all 605 addiction treatment centers officially certified under the DMHA. The dashboard evaluates these facilities’ implementation of evidence-based practices by utilizing reliable data sources and making the information publicly accessible. Users of Treatment Atlas can filter through programs based on services offered, location and insurance coverage, and helping Hoosiers find in-state providers that meet their unique needs. Accessibility and information can be valuable resources for individuals seeking assistance. Simply reaching out to those individuals already struggling with a substance use disorder is insufficient. According to the 2021 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) report, 61.2 million individuals aged 12 and older admitted to the use of an illicit drug in the past year. Lynn Witty, outreach director of the Healthy Lifestyles Center at Ball State University and certified coordinator for crisis intervention training, suggests individuals who appear unaffected on the surface may be struggling behind closed doors. “If you don’t think you know someone with an addiction issue, then you’re not thinking of everybody you know,” Witty said. “It’s really important for everyone to understand the basic concepts.” Shatterproof is only the first step for many
500,000
Number of Hoosiers struggling with a substance use disorder
932,000+ people have died since 1999 from a drug overdose Source: in.gov MEGHAN HOLT, DN DESIGN
struggling with substance use disorder. VanSkyock mentioned while resources like Shatterproof Treatment Atlas are important, many people need more than resources; they need treatment. Jennifer VanSkyock said the biggest barrier Delaware County faces is not something that can be fixed with the locator– it is inpatient housing. She said there is value in such places for an individual undergoing detox or seeking outpatient assistance, continual exposure to their familiar surroundings and potential triggers increases the likelihood of a relapse. According to the National Alliance for Recovery Residences (NARR), there are no certified inpatient addiction treatment facilities in Muncie. “If they’ve got nowhere to go that’s safe and stable for them, their opportunities to really maintain any long-term change is really hindered,” VanSkyock said. “We have that happen across the state.” When asked about the biggest barriers Muncie residents face when seeking help, Jean Marie Place, associate professor of public health and co-director of the Ball State Center for Substance Use Research and Community Initiatives, agreed the deficiency lies in inpatient housing in Delaware County. “When I first got into this field and started learning about it locally, I remember a local psychologist told me treatment will never work unless there’s a continuum of care, which includes sober living housing and recovery residencies,” Place said. While the importance of a new treatment locator in Indiana is acknowledged, there might be more beneficial areas to channel time and energy. In the meantime, Shatterproof Treatment Atlas offers 24hour access to resources and treatment facilities. Individuals can access the Shatterproof Treatment Atlas dashboard at its website or dial 2-1-1 for local resource connections. In an emergency, contact 9-8-8 to talk with a trained specialist. Contact Isabella Fuller with comments at isabella.fuller@bsu.edu.
DNSports
Leaders of the Pack
10.26.23
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Swim and Dive
Chaye and Kelly conference swimmers Ball State cross country junior of the week runners lead the Cardinals into the MAC Championship.
Ball State’s men’s and women’s squads picked up four wins at the Dan Ross Indiana Intercollegiate meet Oct. 21 at Purdue University, two from sophomore Payton Kelly and two from fifth-year Owen Chaye. Kelly won the women’s 50 and 100 freestyle, while Chaye won the men’s 50 and 100 freestyle. It was Kelly’s third time winning the award and Chaye’s fifth.
Athletics
2023 Ball State Athletic Hall of Fame class announced
The seven-member class features Alicia Barkley (softball), Chris Beerman (men’s volleyball), Neal Hazen (athletic trainer), Brad Miller (baseball), Chris Miller (football), Jill Scully (cross country/track and field) and Eric Steger (men’s golf). The group will be inducted Friday, Jan. 19, at the Ball State Alumni Center.
Women’s Basketball
Cardinals set for firstever home prime time matchup Junior Shelby Christman (left), junior Sarah Mahnensmith (center left), junior Jessica Velez (center right) and sophomore Carly Spletzer (right) pose for a photo Oct. 20 at Briner Sports Complex. MYA CATALINE, DN Wheatley said the juniors have been Even though Christman recently transferred to Ball State from Huntington University, she is competing fiercely throughout this season. Lauren Graham “I know they are committed to themselves and consistently a top finisher for the Cardinals. Reporter Mahnensmith and Schifferer both recorded committed to the program,” Wheatley said. “It’s Through his three years at Ball State, the junior season personal records (PRs) at the 2023 Loyola been exciting to see their growth.” Velez emphasized how important physical class for the cross country team has been with head Lakefront Invitational with times of 21:46.3 and 24:01.0, respectively. While Christman and Velez preparation is for her and her teammates. coach Adrian Wheatley since the start. “If you only do stuff at practice, you’re not doing The junior class, which makes up almost one-fourth recorded career PRs of 22:07.7 and 22:41.0, of the team, consists of Sarah Mahnensmith, Jessica respectively, at the 2023 Mel Brodt Invitational. yourself justice,” Velez said. Velez, Jenna Schifferer and Shelby Christman. 4See TRACK, 14
On Sunday, Jan. 21, Ball State is set to face off against Toledo at 6 p.m., emanating from Worthen Arena in Muncie. This is the first time Ball State women’s basketball will be broadcast on CBS, while last season the Cardinals faced Bowling Green on ESPN2. Over the past two seasons, Ball State and Toledo have been at the top of the MAC women’s basketball.
ON BALLSTATEDAILYNEWS.COM: HISTORIC SCORES DRIVE BALL STATE GOLF TO SIXTH PLACE
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Leaving a mark
10.26.23
DNSports
Lindsey Blom’s life experiences provided a foundation for her mentorship style. Meghan Sawitzke Reporter Lindsey Blom still remembers where she was when someone told her to give up on her dreams. Blom was on a soccer field in Indianapolis when a coach from a Division III school told her she would never play college soccer. For many people, that kind of discouragement would be career-ending. “I used it as fuel to try and prove him wrong… In the end, I did,” Blom said. “I worked hard to stay focused and take every opportunity to learn and grow. I just played as often as I could.” Blom’s experience overcoming adversity helps her empathize with student athletes she has mentored during her 15-year career at Ball State University. Blom has worked as a faculty athletic representative, chairperson for Ball State’s School of Kinesiology, and professor of sport and exercise psychology, but was just named associate athletic director for championship performance. Over the course of her career, she has kept that early setback in the front of her mind as she counsels students through a sense of belonging and identity. Jorge Ballesteros, sports psychologist and former graduate assistant, studied under Blom in the sport and exercise psychology master’s program at Ball State, as well as the master’s program in counseling clinical mental health. “Under [Blom’s] guidance and supervision, I was able to start applying for Ph.D. programs in counseling psychology, but I remember I didn’t get into my top choice,” Ballesteros said. “I was devastated at the time, but Lindsey was there to support me and help me out.” Ballesteros accepted Blom’s constant reassurance, advice and guidance, eventually landing in an Arizona State University program to start his Ph.D. However, he struggled with imposter syndrome, feeling like he didn’t belong and that he didn’t deserve his achievements. Blom struggled with this concept herself throughout her athletic career, but her friends were always there to support her and remind her of her value. “Lindsey is a philanthropist, life coach, life partner, dedicated mother, best of friends, model daughter, true believer/fan/supporter of all sports, model for all student-athletes [and a] topnotch human being and a blessing to the world,” Tara Epps, a former teammate at Georgia Southern University, said. Blom said she struggled with her identity multiple times when going through injuries, pregnancy and her career even after her time in college. She went through a period of disbelief, thinking she could no longer call herself an athlete, however, “the ability to be physically active and compete is clearly part of my identity, and so I’ve owned that back again,” she said.
As her life continued to adjust and change through adversity and revolution, she found peace in her identity crisis. “I could coach and mentor, which is what I wanted to do with young people around being a faculty member,” Blom said. “My identity wasn’t as a soccer coach. I realized it was an opportunity to mentor, and so I shifted into a different area.” She found herself still touching a soccer ball weekly, but established true value in helping those who studied under her in the same way her friends helped remind her of her importance. “[Blom] reminded me that I was more than worthy to be in these interviews and that one rejection didn’t mean anything unless I allowed it to,” Ballesteros said. “Those lessons, and the tidbits she taught me that day, still carry me through my career today.” Blom’s status has helped her stay connected to sports and her passion for coaching through her employment. Outside of the job, she still finds herself playing and watching soccer with her two kids, husband and friends. Although Blom took time to mentor students in the master’s program, she also asked more personal questions.
I used it as fuel to try and prove him wrong… In the end, I did.” - LINDSEY BLOM, Associate Athletic Director for Championship Performance
To define the relationship between mentor and friend, Blom likened the dynamic to the changing of a hat. “She always made sure that she checked in on how I was doing as a person rather than just a student. She often says, ‘I’m putting on my professor hat,’ knowing it’s about academics, or ‘I’m putting on my friend hat,’ for more personal, one-on-one conversations,” Jennifer Lape, former master’s program mentee, said. Blom understood the feelings of being portrayed with just one identity, a soccer player. She now advocates for mental health education and support, working to increase access and reduce barriers. Blom has worked to promote holistic care for student-athletes and help them through transitional times.
Ball State Associate Athletic Director for Championship Performance Lindsey Blom poses for a photo Sept. 13 at Briner Sports Complex. Blom has worked for Ball State for 15 years. MYA CATALINE, DN To those she worked with, Blom was more than an athlete, she taught more than just her program. “She taught me so much, while I was her student, about sticking to my integrity and really thinking about who I want to be and who I want to portray,” Lape said. Those close to her say Blom has a strong, independent and brilliant reputation, but she didn’t get there on her own. Blom said she will never forget those who mentored her along the way. Ball State Soccer Head Coach Josh Rife expressed all sports and athletics are good teachers. They teach you the basic life skills you need to be successful, rather than just the strategy of a game. Blom learned a lot from her head coach in college, Tom Norton. He played soccer at the University of South Carolina before becoming a coach. He recruited Blom without knowing much about her, yet she started and played every game all four years of her college career. “He really did believe in me. I’m thankful for the support and the belief that he had in me through that time. He really helped me grow in confidence [and] in my leadership ability,” Blom said. The values she gained through soccer translated into her academic and professional career. Blom still attempts to stay in contact with her former Doctoral Dissertation Advisor Jack Watson at West Virginia University. Watson is now the dean of the College of Health and Human Services at the University of North Carolina. Watson advised her on the writing of her dissertation, instructed her in class, and worked on research and grant proposals together. His laidback and casual nature helped guide her through the program, Blom said. “I was absorbing a lot from [Watson and Norton]. It wasn’t always a deliberate conversation, more like a lightbulb moment,” Blom said.
Her gratitude towards her mentors has flowed into her own work ethic at Ball State. Blom learned a lot through her experiences and often offers advice, but she now stands as a mentor for students “paying it forward.” Contact Meghan Sawitzke with comments at meghan.sawitzke@bsu.edu or on X @MSawitzke.
Ball State Associate Athletic Director for Championship Performance Lindsey Blom goes after the ball in August in Muncie. LINDSEY BLOM, PHOTO PROVIDED
DNLife
10.26.23
Once a month, Kaitlynne Buis provides haircutting services to the Delaware County Jail.
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Community
Halloween Costumed Creature Crawl A parade of pets dressed in Halloween costumes is to take place on Saturday Oct. 28 in Downtown Muncie starting at noon. This is the second year that the event is taking place, and there will be prizes awarded. The costume contest will begin at 12:30 p.m., and they will be judged on best creature costume, best human and creature combo, and best human costume.
Campus
Free event at Maplewood House Nov. 1, the department of applied business studies is throwing a Halloween party in the medical students mansion. Parking is available on the property of the mansion or in the lot next door at the Edmund and Bertha Ball home. The party will be held from 3 to 4:30 p.m. If you have any questions call 765-285-1460.
Community Hair stylist Kaitlynne Buis (left) cuts the hair of Delaware County Jail inmate Chance Herbert (right) Sept. 27 at the Delaware County jail. MYA CATALINE, DN Hannah Amos Lifestyles Editor Kaitlynne Buis’ day as assistant manager at Great Clips includes a variety of people coming in and out of the door, ready for a haircut. Customers sit down and Buis performs her passion, chatting away to the person in the chair. She might ask them how their day has been or what plans they have as she gently works on their hair. Though she loves her job now, it took her a while after earning her license to connect with it. It took someone taking a chance on her. “I fell in love with it out in the field,” Buis said.
“I love the communication with people. You just make people’s day. There’s people that come in and they can just be having the worst day, and you just make them feel beautiful.” She has been a hairstylist for 13 years now, surviving a few different career changes and jumping to different salons. “I always find my way back, so it shows that this is really where my heart is at,” Buis said. “I love what I do. There’s no question about that.” Her passion leads her to a unique clientele on the last Wednesday of every month. She switches her environment of chatting co-workers and soft, background music at Great Clips to the strict structure of the Delaware County Jail.
Instead of a customer wandering into her from the street, they get led to her by a correctional officer, being handcuffed while they sit in the chair. Buis described many of them as quiet and respectful. She has to be deliberate about what she wears; typically a T-shirt and non-ripped jeans. She brings in the basic equipment she’ll need; the same things she’d use at her mainstream job, like scissors, a comb, razors, a mirror, etc. The security process is quick and simple for her now, with the guards already knowing what she’s there for. She walks through the halls with confidence in what she’s doing.
See HAIR, 10
Ornament making at MadJax For $5 per person, the 16 and up event, 13 with an adult, can transfer a print image onto a fabric and learn basic embroidery stitches to make a dimensional ornament. The “Sub & Stitch Ornaments” event will be Nov. 4 from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Registration for the event will close 72 hours before the event. The class will be in Madjax Maker Force’s first floor design lab.
ON BALLSTATEDAILYNEWS.COM: 6 TIPS TO HELP DORM PLANTS THRIVE IN THE WINTER
DNLife
10.26.23
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HAIR
Continued from Page 9 Once she gets into the facility, she gets led into a court-appointed attorney room to set up. She’ll push the table to the back of the room and lay out her supplies. She then puts a chair in the front, putting herself in between the inmate and her supplies on the table. As she sparks small conversations with them, she gets to work. She tells them about her day and what she plans to do, like going to a football game or a concert. She doesn’t ask them personal information, like why they’re there or what they did. “They have a lot of personal stuff going on with them,” she said. “I could only imagine. Usually, if they want to talk then they will, if they don’t want to talk then they won’t.”
She does this on the outside. She’s using actual real clippers and everything.” - CHANCE HERBERT, Delaware County Jail inmate
Delaware County Jail trusty inmate Tracy Kirby sits to get his haircut Sept. 27 in a small room at the Delaware County Jail. Trustee inmates are given special privileges as they are serving time for non-violent crimes and are trustworthy. MYA CATALINE, DN
Buis has been providing her services at the jail for a little over a year. She starts at 1 p.m. and cuts hair until she has finished the last customer, a process that takes her two to four hours. When she heard the jail was looking for someone to fill this role, she took the opportunity to help her save money to grow her family of two sons with her husband. After her baby’s death in 2015 and due to health reasons, Buis has decided to look into adoption. The haircuts, which cost $18 with beard trims being $8, help get her to her dream. Inmates are not allowed to have money in their possession, so the way they get money to spend is through their personal prisoner trust fund, referred to as commissary money, according to the Prison Fellowship. Family is responsible for putting money into an inmate’s commissary. The haircuts come out of an inmate’s commissary. However, if they are a trustee— meaning they are employed at the jail, the cuts are free. Trustee is a privilege given to only nonviolent criminals. The most visible distinction between the two is the color of their jumpsuits. Trustees wear pink while the rest wear orange. Though the environment and process is different from a regular salon, she still gets regulars, like Justin Hudson. Hudson has gotten his hair cut eight times in two years. Hudson, as a trustee working in the kitchen washing dishes, gets the haircuts for free. He enjoys the process of getting his hair a bit freshened up. It makes him “feel a little like a different person,” and “it takes up a little time” out of his normal day. He finds it nice to talk to a different person “‘cause you see the same thing in here all the time.” Chance Herbert, unlike Hudson, is not a trustee; he has to pay for the haircut out of his commissary. He pays for it because he likes to keep his hair done and “it’s one of the things that’s part of the outside world.” “She does this on the outside. She’s using actual real clippers and everything,” Herbert said Brandin Hernak also has to pay for his haircuts. Before prison, he would get his hair done weekly, keeping it short. Now that he’s been in jail, he’s grown it out in an “Elvis” style. To pass the time in the jail, Hernak likes to read books; right now, he’s been reading a lot of philosophy books. He gets haircuts for himself. Though he can’t see his hair, he can feel it. Another aspect Hernak likes about getting his hair done, just like Herbet and Hudson, is that it breaks up the mundanity of incarceration. He said his wake up and lights out time are at the same time every day, passing the time throughout the days by reading, sleeping, playing cards, working out and eating. Zachary Rowe, a correctional officer (CO) at the jail, and Buis’ brother, sees the benefits of Buis coming in once a month on both sides. He gets to see his sister save up money for her family, and sees the inmates get to experience
Delaware County Jail inmate Brandin Hernak gets his haircut by hairstylist Kaitlynne Buis Sept. 27 at the Delaware County jail. Buis gas been giving haircuts for over a year. MYA CATALINE, DN something from the outside. “They feel nice for a while,” Rowe said. “Obviously, the stress of jail tends to weigh them down.” Rowe has been a CO at the jail for five years and described it as “the best job [he’s] ever had.” “You get to see different people from different walks of life, and sometimes there are glory stories of people going through recovery and making it through,” Rowe said. “Unfortunately, we all know that there’s not.” The jail offers haircuts once a month to help maintain hygiene, Rowe said. According to Indiana Department of Corrections Policy and Administrative Procedure, each “intake facility shall offer each offender a haircut.” Inmates also have the right to have their hair cut before they appear in trial, which has led to Buis coming in on her off days to help fulfill that right, though it has only happened one time. People’s desire to feel good about their appearance doesn’t stop at the jail walls, which is why Buis said she continues to do it. Contact Hannah Amos with comments at hannah.amos@bsu.edu or on X @Hannah_ Amos_394.
BREN DEN R OWAN , DN IL LUSTR ATION
Delaware County Jail inmate Donald Combs gets his haircut by hairstylist Kaitlynne Buis Sept. 27 at the Delaware County jail. Buis cuts inmates’ hair once a month. MYA CATALINE, DN
Online Dad
11 10.26.23
DNLife
Summer Clayton, content creator of “@yourprouddad,” talks about his connection on social media. Coleton Coffman Reporter In the year following his graduation from Ball State University in 2020, Summer Clayton discovered a need for online content from a fatherfigure. He began posting videos giving advice and teaching his viewers how to do tasks, like a father would. Whether he is answering a question left in his comments or sitting down to share a virtual meal with his followers, the videos he creates are appreciated by many. Based on his own personal experiences, Clayton is able to answer certain questions that he has encountered growing up and speak about some topics when he posts his “Dinner with Dad.” Some of the positive things his dad has mentioned to him growing up were to “Keep your head on a swivel, have good situational awareness and protect [your] siblings, and try to go through life and try to have thick skin.” Clayton is “Your Proud Dad” on social media. He is a unique influencer who interacts with his audience through daily affirmations, prayers and eating or cooking meals together.
Ball State alumnus Summer Clayton poses for a photo on Nov. 7, 2021 in North Dakota. Clayton is a TikTok influencer. SUMMER CLAYTON, PHOTO PROVIDED
He aims to be a father figure by providing the support a parent would normally give to his followers. Clayton graduated with a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology, but his first love was a concentration in photography and videography. He spent his first year of graduate school in the dorms. He had no work-study program, graduate assistant position or off-campus job lined up. “It was strange for a grad student to live in the dorms with underclassmen,” Clayton said. While he had a good experience, he said he would not do it for a second year. Ball State was his second choice for graduate school. However, some of the content in the program has shifted since he graduated. “One of the greatest things about going to Ball State is that, within my specific program, they had graduate students having internships embedded into their program,” Clayton said. “Even though Ball State played no role, whatsoever, in my social media influence, it did allow me to come out of grad school and secure the type of positions I worked with.” Clayton grew up with good memories of his parents that influenced his creative process. There are those challenging experiences he can make content whether it was from cultivating the relationship with his parents, or peers bullying him— lowering his confidence. Clayton aims to make his viewers feel like they belong and that somebody cares about them, and he wishes to give what he had growing up. When filming, Clayton has conversation checkins with his followers. Sometimes he would make jokes and use expressions or give encouragement. He films himself creating recipes from his childhood for his followers to recreate. When he first started his account, his target audience was more exclusively for people and, more specifically, boys of color. Then it progressed to men of all ages, with girls following along with the dad content he posted. Clayton said he believes TikTok is half-and-half males and females around the ages of 18 to 21, while Instagram is mostly women, aged between late 20s and early 40s for his accounts. “I made my content for anyone who can gather some sort of comfort, or feel some sort of love or appreciate the teachings in any way shape or form,” Clayton said. As a kid, Clayton said he felt deeply isolated from his peers from time-to-time and did not wish for others to feel the same way. Strangers can go to his channel to meet someone in the comment section and make new friends, share some love or even learn something new.
Ball State alumnus Summer Clayton (center) poses with his parents Curtis Williams (left) and Karen Clayton (right) on July 9 in Stanley, North Dakota. Clayton produces content including daily affirmations, prayers and recipes on “@yourprouddad” on TikTok and “@officialyourprouddad” on Instagram. SUMMER CLAYTON, PHOTO PROVIDED Faith plays a huge role in what he does, and his parents are next in line as his role models. He said he wishes he could have told himself back then God had him, his parents and his family. Jason Skjervem has known Clayton since 2014. Skjervem has been a part of Cru, a national Christian university organization, since 2005 and is now the area director for Western, Central and Northern North Dakota campuses.
He always has a positive message and encourages you to think about the tough time you have been through or what positive things you are going through right now,” - WINSTON HINTON, Follower Skjervem and Clayton first met at Dickinson State University in North Dakota when he was part of the college ministry and got to know Clayton more when he transferred to Minot State University in North Dakota. They have stayed in contact since.
“I’ve always been a big encourager and champion for what he does,” Skjervem said. Skjervem described Clayton as a “very kindhearted, genuine friend who loves life.” “Summer never set out to be [a] social media influencer, it is something that happened,” Skjervem said. He saw it from the faith side of things, ‘God has given me this opportunity, what can I do to make the best of this moment?’ He is not in it for the money.” Winston Hinton began following Clayton’s content about a year ago with the help of the algorithm of the apps. He had a negative relationship with his father growing up, so Clayton’s videos stood out to him. He already knew how to, but Clayton teaching his followers how to shave was Hinton’s first time seeing him. Hinton liked how someone took the time to help the younger generation learn basic acts. “[It is] a life-changing experience to see somebody that truly cares about how he influences people in a positive way,” Hinton said. Clayton and Hinton communicated through video and phone calls after the death of Hinton’s mother. Clayton consoled him through the rough patch and stayed in contact afterward. Hinton is originally from Belgium, where Clayton shipped snacks and things that brought comfort to him from his home country to help the grief of losing a parent. “He always has a positive message and encourages you to think about the tough time you have been through or what positive things you are going through right now,” Hinton said. Contact Coleton Coffman with comments at cscoffman@bsu.edu.
DNOpinion 12
10.26.23
My educational journey is ingrained in my cultural identity. MEGHAN HOLT, DN ILUSTRATION
ON BALLSTATEDAILYNEWS.COM: COBB: INDIANA PACERS SEASON PREVIEW AND PREDICTIONS
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Cristal Mariano
Columnist, “Breaking Barriers”
Cristal Mariano is a first-year journalism major and writes “Breaking Barriers” for the Daily News. Her views do not necessarily reflect those of the newspaper. I am Puerto Rican and Dominican. I love embracing my culture whether it is representing my countries with flags hung in my dorm room, speaking with pride during in-class speeches or sporting the numerous pins on my backpack. I am very passionate about representing my homeland. I was originally born in Ponce, Puerto Rico, where much of my dad’s family hails from. A majority of my mom’s side are still residents of the Dominican Republic. Being raised in the Caribbean, I was taught different recipes, religious ideologies and even cultural beliefs from both countries. Much of my life is a mix of both cultures. I mainly grew up in Puerto Rico — the place I consider my home — but when I was 6 years old, my parents decided to come to the United States mainland. They wanted a better future for my sisters and I. Eventually, my dad left the picture which meant I had to step into his shoes. I needed to become the “responsible older sister.” So I decided to go to college. In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, I wanted to share how being a first-generation Latina in college has led to a unique journey filled with both challenges and opportunities. As a trailblazer in my family, I’ve faced the exciting — and often overwhelming — task of navigating the contemporary educational system in America while still finding ways to embrace my cultural identity. There’s a lot to be said about the experiences, triumphs and struggles faced by first-generation Hispanic people in college. While it can seem so achievable, it’s also a long, tedious commitment. College is a huge step towards your future career. Even when it comes to job interviews or meetings with school administrators, it can be a challenge when some English words tend to confuse me. I still criticize myself for not being fluent. On a day-to-day basis, I often compare myself to a lot of my peers who seem so advanced while I feel like I’m falling behind. If I do badly on an assignment or in a class, I feel like I am somehow failing my family. But that’s just the process of being a first-gen student. We are more deserving than what our regressive thoughts try to convince us of.
Don’t forget your roots. It’s what makes you unique and it’s a part of your identity.”
Cristal Mariano (right) is pictured with her mom (left) in Puerto Rico. Mariano lived in Puerto Rico until she was 6 years old when her family moved to Indiana. CRISTAL MARIANO, PHOTO PROVIDED Being a first-generation Latina college student is a daunting step in life, especially being the first one to break the family cycle. We play an important role in paving the way for future generations. According to the Center for First-Generation Student Success, as of the 2015-16 academic year, 56 percent of undergraduate students in the United States were first-generation college students, with 59 percent of these students also being the first siblings in their family to go to college. That is a significant achievement, and it’s something to be immensely proud of. But it is not easy. There have been trials and tribulations I never expected to confront. Whether it was navigating the educational system, understanding FAFSA, overcoming language and cultural barriers or balancing academic and financial pressures, I had more on my plate than I ever expected. Without family members who understand the bureaucracy of it all, navigating these new things can be challenging. These hurdles stood in front of me at a daunting height. But there were available resources that lowered the height, so I felt “caught up” with my non-first-gen peers. Having academic advisors and supportive professors who gave me the accommodations I needed helped me to feel less alone. Moving away from home meant I would see my family less. But I knew when I arrived I still wanted to maintain a strong connection with my cultural identity. It’s what provided me with a sense of belonging and empowerment even when away from home. It has been important for me to celebrate and preserve my cultural heritage by participating in student organizations, attending events and engaging with my new community. And I would encourage anyone else who has become culturally homesick to participate in these activities as well.
10.26.23
DNOpinion
Don’t forget your roots. It’s what makes you unique and it’s a part of your identity. Keep up with family. It is important to talk to them about your college experience. Embrace your cultural identity. Make it a part of your college experience. Ball State has the Latinx Student Union and other events! Building a supportive community on campus is crucial for your overall well-being and success. Seeking out these organizations and clubs can help you connect with fellow first-gen Hispanics who understand your journey as well as you do. Your cultural background shouldn’t be viewed as a collegiate-level barrier; it is a strength that enriches the college experience. Imposter syndrome is something I’ve dealt with many times. It’s like that annoying mosquito buzzing in your ear, constantly whispering doubts and insecurities. Without family coming to clear the path for you, it’s easy to feel like you don’t belong or that you’re not as smart as your peers. But I’ve learned I am just as capable and deserving as anyone else. I have learned to recognize those doubts for what they are and confront them head-on. I try to remind myself of my accomplishments, big and small. And I think everyone should. Believing in your abilities and remembering you’ve worked hard to get where you are allows you to push down the bad feelings when they come. We all deserve to be here. According to Pew Research Center, there were about 470,000 Latinos enrolled at degree-granting postsecondary institutions in 1980, accounting for four percent of all students. That number increased to 1.5 million in 2000, and 3.7 million in 2020, accounting for a fifth of all postsecondary students. That would not have been possible without people taking the first step to be first-generation students. As current first-generation students, we are breaking down the barriers that stand before us. We pave the way for future generations. By sharing my own story, I hope first-generation Hispanics can feel seen. Together, making our stories known, we will continue to inspire and create lasting change in higher education. At the beginning of my college experience, I felt more alone than I had my whole life. But I found the people who wanted to support me. I now embrace my journey, and I continue to seek support while celebrating my own cultural identity. With determination and resilience, I know I can continue to thrive and succeed in college. I will carry that with me everywhere I go even when this journey comes to a close. Contact Cristal Mariano with comments at cmarianovargas@ bsu.edu.
By sharing my own story, I hope first-generation Hispanics can feel seen.”
DNSports
10.26.23
14
TRACK Continued from Page 7
Outside of practice, the athletes stress the importance of seeing Ball State’s trainer, Kelsey Voga; she offers them specific strengthening exercises and advice on how to not overwork their muscles. Overworked muscles can lead to tendonitis and stress fractures, both of which are detrimental to an athlete’s season. The juniors prepare for meets outside of practice by rolling out their muscles, stretching and eating right. “It’s important to do the little things when we’re not [at practice],” Velez said. She added it’s all about finding a balance; doing just the right amount of work necessary to receive the benefits and achieve success. In collegiate cross country meets, the teams start together at the starting line, but then as the race progresses and as the runners start to find their pace, they start to separate. Sometimes runners won’t have any other people with them and it gets harder to keep the pace that was set at the beginning of the race. This is when it comes in handy to keep a good mentality. Velez stressed the significance of runners taking care of themselves mentally. If the girls are not proactive in dealing with mental anguish, it can lead to race anxiety or other stressors. “It can get really intense, really fast,” Velez said. The Cardinals have various ways of protecting their mental health; whether it be relying on their religion to relieve mental strife or just taking time out of their day to meditate and relax. For Velez, she chooses to remind herself why she continues her journey in collegiate cross country. “We all had the option to stop doing cross country in high school, but we didn’t want to stop doing it,” Velez said. “So, I try to remember my ‘why’ by having a positive mind and reminding myself that this sport makes me happy.” This season, the Cardinals have started to choose a motivational word for the race or workout that they’re completing that day. They write it down physically on their hands or arms. “At Loyola, I wrote ‘fun’ on my hand because I wanted to remind myself to have fun with the race,” Velez said. “If I’m going to be here on this day, I might as well have some fun while I’m here.” Ball State relies on its mental performance consultant, Chelsea Davis. She often acts as a mental health coach for the girls when they’re in need of it.
I know they are committed to themselves and committed to the program,” - ADRIAN WHEATLEY, Head coach
You go through the highs and the lows of the sport with them. It’s important to remember that you’ve put in the work and just know that you’re prepared.” - SHELBY CHRISTMAN, Junior “[Davis] is very supportive. If we’re feeling bad outside of practice, we can just shoot her a text,” Velez said. “She will help you out, 100 percent.” The juniors said this season is all about positivity and supporting one another. Christman said that the Cardinals lift each other up to help people stay positive. Mahnensmith echoed Christman in saying that these are key elements that play a huge role during races. “Having that mindset of positivity and being able to support each other, especially when someone’s down, it’s huge, especially in a race,” Mahnensmith said. “It overall helps the team to score.” With Ball State’s cross country team being on the smaller side (a majority of its conference averages about 20 runners while Ball State has 1 on the roster), the juniors believe that this makes it easier to have closer relationships with their teammates. “Being juniors allows us to be mentors and just give advice to the younger runners and try to make their transition [to college] easier,” Velez said. “We notice it a lot when we encourage each other while we’re running. If we do any long workouts on the track, an upperclassman will yell out ‘we’re at a mile’ and then say something really encouraging after” “You go through the highs and the lows of the sport with them,” Christman said. “It’s important to remember that you’ve put in the work and just know that you’re prepared.” As the Mid-American Conference (MAC) Championship creeps closer, the Cardinals plan on preparing for it just as any other meet. Coach Wheatley is confident that he and his team are capable of doing great things at the “big show.” “We’re going to commit to just making sure that everybody is healthy. We’ve got a good mindset and people are putting themselves in the position to be great,” Wheatley said. With the physical and mental preparations, the juniors at Ball State have shown time and time again that they are capable of great things. Their last dress rehearsal before the big show was Oct. 13 at the Bradley Pink Invitational. Ball State placed 22nd out of 33 teams. Last year in the MAC Championships, Ball State placed 9th of 12. The Cardinals’ big show this year will take place Oct. 28 at Bowling Green University. Contact Lauren Graham with comments at lauren.graham@bsu.edu.
Sophomore Carly Spletzer (left) and junior Shelby Christman (right) poses for a photo Oct. 20 at Briner Sports Complex. MYA CATALINE, DN
Junior Jessica Velez poses for a photo Oct. 20 at Briner Sports Complex. MYA CATALINE, DN
Junior Shelby Christman poses for a photo Oct. 20 at Briner Sports Complex. MYA CATALINE, DN
Junior Shelby Christman (left), junior Sarah Mahnensmith (center left), junior Jessica Velez (center right) and sophomore Carly Spletzer (right) pose for a photo Oct. 20 at Briner Sports Complex. MYA CATALINE, DN
Crossword & Sudoku ACROSS 1 Comment accompanying a dismissive hand wave 7 Tucked in 11 Hotel hallway sign 14 Automaker with a six-star logo 15 Serving aid 16 Not talking 17 *Game delay prevented by a chess clock? 19 WNBA player, e.g. 20 Message near a candy bowl 21 Campus group 22 Cartoon supplier of giant anvils 25 Pac-12 school in L.A. 26 Dull repetition 27 *”Has anyone found our pigeon?” 32 Aveeno grain 33 IPO launchers 34 Norse god of war 35 European capital 37 Pet collar attachments 41 Boxers Laila and Muhammad 43 Robot attachment? 44 With it 45 *Completely hooked on swearing by a Roman god?
49 Out of the wind 50 Celery stalk 51 Scrutinized 52 Face off in the ring 53 Single, for one 56 Cantina condiment 57 1981 Top 10 hit for Soft Cell, and a feature of the answers to the starred clues? 61 Versatile blackjack card 62 Carrie-__ Moss of “Jessica Jones” 63 Brought up 64 Scratch, e.g. 65 Space race initials 66 Produces, as an heir
DOWN 1 Sugar suffix 2 Enemy in “Mulan” 3 Agenda placeholder 4 Bikini top option 5 Field of study 6 Mastodon feature 7 Max 8 Prefix with dilator or scope 9 Gutter spot 10 Turn red, say 11 “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” technique 12 Parish figure 13 Put on quite an act
18 Whoville creator 21 “Down in __!” 22 AFB truant 23 __ latte 24 Team whose first manager was Casey Stengel 28 Gut bacteria 29 Column style 30 Official order 31 Sassy retort 36 The “B” of RBG 38 Cry to a matey 39 Buckle 40 Went 60 in a 50, say 42 Pushes to the limit 43 “Sounds about right” 45 Llamalike mammal 46 Card holder? 47 Former CEO profiled in the book “DisneyWar” 48 Flight risk? 49 Black tea variety 53 Prohibitions 54 Window box plant 55 Produit de la tête 57 Letter between sigma and upsilon 58 Valuable deposit 59 Confirm the credentials of, say 60 Newsroom VIPs
SOLUTIONS FOR OCTOBER 19
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15
10.26.23
DNPuzzles
DECISION NewsLink and The Daily News are teaming up to provide the area’s most comprehensive election coverage for the Muncie races you’re watching. Watch live on Nov. 7 on Facebook at NewsLinkBSU, then read more analysis online at ballstatedailynews.com.