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THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 2016 Vol. 128 / No. 36
Still no budget? Rauner fails to address plan for budget stalemate, protestors demand resolution AVE RIO AND NATHAN PENN News Reporters
Hundreds of protestors gathered to show their dissatisfaction with the absence of a state budget Wednesday at the Illinois State Capitol during Gov. Bruce Rauner’s second State of the State address. Rauner focused on potential for compromise in his efforts to make Illinois a “competitive and compassionate” state, but he spoke little on the issues surrounding the budget stalemate. He alluded to the difficulties in past negotiations, but spoke hopefully about a future compromise. “All of us in this chamber had a difficult year together in 2015, as we debated a budget with structural reform,” Rauner said. “But it is not too late for this General Assembly to make historic progress for the people of Illinois.” Many of the protestors spoke about the effects the budget impasse has on social service agencies, which have had to cut many programs and reduce staff without funding from the state.
See RAUNER page 3
Photo by AVE RIO | Vidette News Editor Hundreds of people protested the budget stalemate at Gov. Bruce Rauner’s State of State address at the Illiniois State Capitol Wednesday.
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THE VIDETTE | NEWS | PAGE 3
THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 2016
ISU named top school for veterans for sixth year
RAUNER continued from page 1
Dr. Alfred Klinger with the Jane Addams Senior Caucus said he was concerned about keeping seniors independent, despite the health or financial issues they may have. “Some people are on the verge of being put into the streets because they are losing assisted living,” he said. “The governor needs to come to some kind of recognition that there are vulnerable people in this state.” Klinger suspects a budget resolution will not be reached until disapproval results in the impeachment of Rauner. Other agencies protesting included Chicago Coalition for the Homeless, Jewish Council in Urban Affairs and the Responsible Budget Coalition among others. A spokesperson from the Responsible Budget Coalition emphasized that they are trying to work toward an Illinois government that works for all people. “When the government sets the wrong priorities, it is the people who pay the price,” he said to the crowd of protestors. “We are real people going through real pain.” Although Rauner urged mutual respect among lawmakers, he stood behind his “Turnaround Agenda,” which has been the root cause of the conflict between Rauner and Speaker of the House Michael Madigan and other democratic legislators. Rauner’s agenda consists of budget cuts, anti-union measures
EMA SASIC News Reporter
AVE RIO | Vidette News Editor
Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner gives his State of the State address Wednesday afternoon in Springfield. and an expansion of pro-business policies. Madigan, on the other hand, believes that a balanced budget can be reached through a combination of reasonable budget cuts and tax hikes for the wealthy. “I don’t think you can simply cut your way out of the budget problem,” Madigan said. Rauner outlined his vision
for education in Illinois with his 10-point plan dedicated to “eliminating wasteful bureaucracy, putting more money into our classroom, and freeing up our teachers to teach.” The plan focused largely on improving K-12 education, and mentioned briefly offering “additional financial support to those schools that show real progress
in putting more resources in the classroom,” for higher education. Rauner made no statement as to the previously mentioned 31 percent budget cut to higher education. Check out the related photo gallery at videtteonline.com
Wunder named ISU’s new VP of development NATHAN PENN Political Reporter
Illinois State University has named Mark Wunder as assistant vice president for development in ISU’s University Advancement division (UAD). Wunder started his tenure last week, providing leadership for the University’s comprehensive Mark campaign. Wunder “My responsibilities will involve working with the various colleges and departments at Illinois State… to develop strategies and implement plans to engage our alumni, friends, and supporters to provide generous philanthropic support for the University,” Wunder said. The upcoming comprehensive fundraising campaign is ISU’s first since 2005, Pat Vickerman, vice president of University Advancement said. “We have over 200,000 alumni worldwide and
it’s time for us to embark on our next campaign.” The UAD has achieved record breaking fundraising for the last two years, but Vickerman believes that there’s still room to grow. “Our endowment is over $100 million right now… but we also have aspirations to do even more,” Vickerman said. “We’re building on some pretty good momentum that has to do with the confidence our alumni and supporters have in the direction of the university.” Wunder has experience in fundraising campaigns at multiple higher education institutions including Indiana University and the University of Iowa. “I’ve been very fortunate to learn from seasoned development professionals throughout my career,” Wunder said. “I look forward to collaborating with many people, both on campus and beyond, to utilize that experience on behalf of Illinois State.” Before his career in higher education, Wunder practiced as a lawyer for 12 years. Wunder stresses the importance of private gift support to the success of ISU.
“Over the past several decades, all of higher education has become more focused on private gift support to ensure excellence,” Wunder said. “This has been particularly true for public universities.” Vickerman also emphasized the ways in which public support helps students. “Many of our students do receive scholarships, so the more scholarship money that we bring in, the more it benefits the student body,” Vickerman said. Wunder plans to increase private giving by emphasizing the effect that gifts have on students and ISU’s larger influence. “We will continue to reach out to our alumni, friends and organizations to articulate the impact that ISU has on the lives of our students, and the wider impact that our graduates and the University have on the region,” Wunder said. Vickerman expressed appreciation for Wunder’s new role as AVP. “He’s a good fit for Illinois State, he’ll be a great member of the Redbird family,” Vickerman said.
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Illinois State University has once again been recognized as a top school for supporting veterans in the 2016 Military Advanced Education and Transition (MAE&T) Guide to Colleges and Universities. The MAE&T guide measures the best practices in military and veteran education. It evaluates institutions on their military culture, financial aid, flexibility, on-campus support and online support services, according to their website. For the past six years, ISU has been named military-friendly due to its longstanding tradition of military support and types of services offered to veterans and Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) students. “I believe one of the reasons we are a top qualifying school is that staff in many offices across campus understand the needs of our veteran and military connected students and often have staff that specifically work with military connected students,” University Registrar Jess Ray said. Associate Registrar and head of Veterans and Military Services Judy Curtis explained that ISU offers admission application fee waivers, guaranteed in-state tuition rates regardless of the state of residence, priority registration and a LinC veteran’s seminar for military students. Curtis said providing quality resources to help veterans transition from military life to collegiate life is a priority at ISU. “Illinois State University is committed to providing services to veterans and active military that allow them to be successful in their collegiate careers,” Curtis said. “Throughout campus, knowledgeable staff is available to assist student veterans from the application and course registration processes to acclimating to campus life. We offer support programs in many offices across campus with a designated person who specializes in the needs of veterans.” Many student veterans and ROTC students agree that ISU deserves its ranking as a military friendly school. After joining the ROTC program, junior Engineering Technology major Dan Byl said that staff members have helped him catch up and fulfill
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PAGE 4 | THE VIDETTE
THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 2016
MY VIEW DELANE MCKLURKIN Columnist
Decreasing gasoline prices keep students’ wallets above E
M Editorial Cartoon by Athena Tapia
VIDETTE EDITORIAL
Focus on higher education must be priority of next president Students should vote for a candidate who promises them a brighter future
L
ast week, President Barack Obama proposed expanding the Pell grant program by $2 billion in the next fiscal year. The expansion in grants would enable low-income college students to get financial aid year round and reward students with extra scholarship money for staying on track. This is part of Obama’s effort to incentivize students to graduate college on time and to help needy students pay for expensive classes. In his time in office, Obama has reacted to a desperate need for reform in higher education and has called attention to the unaffordability of college. Obama’s expansion of education tax credits and efforts to prevent student loan interest rates from
raising represent his serious stance in defending the rights of college students. Now, as we prepare to elect a new president, it’s important that young voters choose a candidate that is willing to carry on with Obama’s higher education agenda. Election of a candidate who fails to take student debt and highinterest rates seriously could launch college into a new era of unaffordability. Aspirations of a college education for lower income students could be an unachievable dream because of an absence of funding for scholarships and a refusal to make reforms. Candidate Jeb Bush has said that college costs so much because students take too long to graduate. He has accused
students of taking a “French workweek.” We don’t need a wealthy, out-of-touch president telling us that college students are in debt because of laziness. We need a president who understands the unavoidable realities and burdens of a modern university education. Other candidates have a better understanding of the ways in which student debt puts our students and graduates at a disadvantage, especially compared to other developed nations. Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders has often pointed out how many nations in Europe have thrived with free four-year higher education programs. “They understand how important it is to be investing in their youth. We should be doing the
same,” Sanders said. This European model also strengthens the job market and wages for blue collar workers by teaching trades at earlier ages and sustaining a strong prounion culture. When students leave a university with crippling college debt, it takes them longer to become participating members in the economy and forces them to keep their jobs long past retirement age, leading to higher rates of unemployment. The United States is at a critical moment in its treatment of students. We must decide now if college will be an elite institution for the wealthiest people or if it will be a place to cultivate the minds of the brightest young people of all classes.
Editorial policy is determined by the student editor, and views expressed in editorials are those of the majority of The Vidette’s Editorial Board. Columns that carry bylines are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily represent those of The Vidette or the University.
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any college students have been astonished on how low prices at the pump have been in recent months. Oil prices have dropped as low as $1.39 at some gas stations located in McLean County and prices in Bloomington-Normal are the lowest in the state. Obviously, everybody is enjoying the extra change in their pocket from not spending as much to fill their tank, but it has especially affected college students who are known to struggle with money. Cheap gas is not a new thing, as prices have been drastically lowering since summer. However, the benefits are not old news; cheap gas makes it seem as if our economy is doing well, which promotes more consumer confidence. With higher consumer confidence, college students feel more compelled to spend money on school supplies, food and clothes. With all of the extra discretionary income from gas dropping so low, I have been able to buy better quality food, I have been able to buy more knickknacks for my apartment and I have also been able to put away some extra cash for a “rainy day.” Many people have heard the phrase “broke college students,” but with reduced gas prices, college students have been able to break that stereotype. At Illinois State University, there are tons of commuters; in the past, I have chosen public transportation because it ends up being cheaper than gas money. Recently, however, I have been able to drive to class more often and the parking fees no longer bother me because it saves time from waiting at the bus stop. I actually filled up my entire tank for $13 one day. That’s nearly unheard of. Unfortunately though, gas prices are known to fluctuate and consumers can expect the prices to start to rise with the temperatures. When these prices do rise, though, it is still possible to get reasonable gas. Many people, college students especially, shop for gas on a convenience basis. For example, there are several gas stations located on Main Street, which is basically on campus. However, the BP gas station closer to the I-55 entrance is typically a nickel cheaper, but students don’t know to venture out that way. Being aware of local gas prices can help keep that extra jingle in your wallet. Paying attention to gas trends can make or break your credit card and, although prices are cheap now, you never know when they might spike up again. Let’s hope they stay low while we commuters are still commuting. Delane Mclurkin is a senior accounting major and columnist for The Vidette and can be reached at vidette_dcmclur@ilstu.edu. Follow him on Twitter at @DelaneMcl.
THE VIDETTE | NEWS | PAGE 5
THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 2016
McLean County to welcome comfort canine in courthouse BRENT BADER Senior Reporter
McLean County can look forward to meeting a new canine companion, as the Children’s Advocacy Center and the McLean County prosecutor’s office have applied to receive a courtroom dog, to aide children who have been exposed to trauma. “Research has shown that dogs are very good for folks that have been impacted by trauma,” Judy Brucker, executive director at the Children’s Advocacy Center, said. A new piece of legislature was passed, effective on Jan. 1, which allows facility dogs to be used in special circumstances. This dog would be used to help children who have been exposed to trauma and are asked to give testimony in court. The process can be a stressful one for children and recent research shows that having a dog available can ease their tension. “The dogs are trained to really alleviate anxiety,” Brucker said. “So when the child is talking or going through a courtroom preparation, the dog is trained to simply lay at the child’s feet or rest their head on them to calm them down and it’s really amazing to see in person.” Brucker cited Illinois State University’s own “PAWSitively Stress Free” days as an example of dogs being used to lower stress levels in the local community. Currently the group has sent in an application to Support Dogs, Inc., which is a nonprofit assistance dog provider based in St. Louis, Mo. Support Dogs, Inc. has also provided a facility dog to Lake County. “What’s important to know about a facility dog is that they are different than a support dog or a therapy dog,” Brucker said.
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Courtrooms often use service dogs to aid children who experienced trauma. “In order to become a facility dog they have to have gone through all the basic training to be those other things, but this is sort of an elevated requirement.” The group remains hopeful that they will be including a new “team partner” sometime this year, but because training for the dogs takes two years it may be some time before they can be used in McLean County courtrooms. In addition, the Children’s Advocacy Center and the prosecutor’s office will both have one staff member that will have to undergo training to watch over the dog. Assistant State’s Attorney Jake Harlow has been looking into having dogs present in the courtroom since 2010 after doing his own research on how to better comfort a child during this difficult time in their lives. “It kind of takes the thought of a child being able to have a comfort item, such as a doll, or something that would take their focus and make them feel comfortable while giving
MILITARY continued from page 3
his goal to be ready to graduate this spring semester. “I believe that ISU continues to be a top military friendly school due to the incredibly helpful staff and support provided on campus,” Byl said. “Even for students not involved in ROTC, ISU offers a wonderful center for Veterans Affairs to assist with financial incentive programs and even just a place to go and study in quiet.” With all of the support that ISU provides for military students, Byl was able to utilize the Illinois Army National Guard Grant and Post-9/11 GI Bill to pay for his tuition. For him and many other students, these oppor-
their testimony in court,” Harlow said. Originally Harlow reached out to local individuals with certified therapy dogs, but found response time would have been a factor in most cases. “We have interviews and investigations pop up suddenly,” Harlow said. “So it would be a lot better to have a dog on staff that’s always here rather than try and contact someone.” Harlow foresees the dog as also being beneficial to the staff. Having a dog on hand could help boost morale around the office for whenever individuals need a quick stress-free break. If the inclusion of the facility dog in the courtroom proves to be a success, Harlow could see using the dog in both drug and mental health court. “Having its presence in the community can benefit a lot of people,” Harlow said. “It can also help raise awareness that child abuse is real and it really does happen in this community.”
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tunities helped them get closer to a college education. “Without these programs I would be in a much harder financial situation than what I am now, so I am very grateful for the help given here at ISU as well as the programs that are available for military members,” Byl said. After being recognized by the MAE&T for many years, Ray said that ISU will keep on looking for more ways to help military students. “We continue to look at ways to increase our outreach and our ability to provide services to our military connected students,” he said. “We want to make sure that we do a great job providing resources that are needed for educational success for those that have served our country.”
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Bloomington has seen a decrease in gas prices in 2016. According to The Pantagraph, many stations were listing $1.44 per gallon early Tuesday morning. This is the first time since 2009 that local gas prices dropped below $1.50 per gallon. Mark Flynn, owner of Flynn’s Delivery in Bloomington, stated that if these prices remain for an extended period of time, it will benefit the local economy. “It is unbelievable right now. As long as it stays like this, it means our business can grow. We can get another truck and that means hiring more men. Lower gas prices can really benefit the local economy quite a bit,” Flynn said. According to Patrick DeHaan, a senior petroleum analyst for GasBuddy.com, the prices are to remain low for a while longer. TAYLOR LEDDIN | NEWS REPORTER
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PAGE 6 | SPORTS | THE VIDETTE
THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 2016
ISU uses hot shooting to defeat Drake, 76-64 RYAN KELLY Sports Reporter
Dan Baranowski | Staff Photographer
MiKyle McIntosh tied a career high with 25 points in the Redbirds’ 76-64 win over Drake Tuesday night.
CHA continued from page 8
“Religion might not be seen as important as it used to be, but being part of this new community, I know there is a bigger purpose for me being here. I’m doing the best I can to take full advantage of opportunity and the rest of my time here.” With Cha’s expected graduation in May, the future of Athletes InterVarsity and its presence on campus appears foggy at first glance. McCloud described Cha as the “most positive and happiest person” he has ever met. Cha’s personality, obedience to her faith and care for her fellow peers shows the influence she wants to leave behind. “My biggest goal for Athletes InterVarsity is to create an environment and an atmosphere for other athletes, no matter what teams they come from,” Cha said. “Being able to support each other and not feel completely isolated.” Whether one is religious to any extent or not involved with religion at all, Cha’s mindset will bring a smile to any face. Athletes express their faith on the field or in the gym in a variety of ways. Whether it be pointing to the sky after a made basket, a silent prayer after celebrating a touchdown or locker room meditation, athletes all over the world show praise in many different
ways. Although a handful of ISU student athletes are treading in unfamiliar ground in starting up Athletes InterVaristy, they maintain a positive outlook. Treat others how you want to be treated. For Danci Cha, it’s simple. It comes down to inf luencing others more than they have influenced her. Past attendees and current members of Athletes InterVarsity include student-athletes: David Ndiaye, Justin McCloud,
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Josh Tolentino is a junior journalism major and sports editor at The Vidette. He can be reached by email at jtolent@ilstu.edu and found on Twitter @JCTSports.
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It was raining threes at Redbird Arena as Illinois State University shot 15-for28 from downtown, defeating the Drake Bulldogs 76-64, Tuesday evening. The 15 made 3-pointers tied a Redbird Arena record that was set earlier this season against Missouri State on Dec. 30. The win marks the third straight victory for the Redbirds (12-10, 6-3 Missouri Valley Conference) who improved to 9-3 at home. MiKyle McIntosh scored 25 points, which tied his career high that was set against Southern Illinois this season on Jan. 12. He also had a team high seven rebounds and three steals. He made all four of his three-point attempts. “When I focus on shooting it the right way, and not focus on making the shot, I
“When you force 21 turnovers and you convert a lot of those to baskets and we share the ball like we did, we can be pretty hard to guard,” Muller said. ISU has had trouble this season with putting teams away, and last night was almost more of the same. Drake cut the lead to nine at one point in the second half. Another strong Redbird performer was Deontae Hawkins who made 5-of-6 attempts from three, finishing with 17 points. Hawkins came out on fire and hit two early three-pointers to get the crowd into the game. ISU will look to extend the three-game win streak Saturday when they visit Missouri State (8-12, 4-4). The Redbirds defeated the Bears in the conference opener at home, 74-61, on Dec. 30. Tipoff is set for 3:05 p.m. and can be seen on ESPN3.
shoot it better,” McIntosh said. “I’m gaining a lot more confidence and playing smarter.” Senior Justin McCloud followed up his big performance Saturday with another big game against the Bulldogs. McCloud finished with 12 points, making 4-of-7 shots, all from three-point territory, just a few days after nailing 5-of-6 from long range for a career high 15 points against Northern Iowa. “We are making some shots and getting some confidence going,” ISU coach Dan Muller said. “That comes from hard work, a lot of extra shots from the guys outside of practice.” ISU came out strong in the second half. After a Bulldogs basket the ’Birds went on a 17-0 run and had a lead of 20 at one point in the second half. The 21 forced turnovers for ISU was the most in a conference game this season.
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Roommates Wanted Apt avail at The Lodge for SU/FA/SP 16-17. 2 roommates needed for 4 bdrm apt. Own floor, own bedroom & own bathroom. $695/mo (utility allowance included). Call Tyler @ 815-757-3390.
For Rent Spring- 2016 Various 1,2, 3 and 4 Bedrooms and some single rooms available. $235$555. Class Act Realty. 454-2960 Need an apartment now? We have apartments and rooms for spring 2016. www.sami.com 3098884600
Help Wanted- General Spring break week help & 2nd semester. Before/after school program is looking for staff during ISU spring break and/or for the semester. Apps can be picked up at the Normal Parks&Rec office, or call 454-9721 for more info!
For Rent Fall 16/Spring 17 Franklin Park Area, Bloomington. 1.3 miles to ISU. 3 blocks to downtown. Very quiet, non-smoking, charming, affordable. Studios, 1 or 2 bdrms starting at $425. Call 309-242-1925. Leave detailed message. Pictures can be texted.
For Rent: Su/Fall/Sp 16-17 808 S Linden: Large 1,2,3 and 4 person units. All Utilities Included. Next to the trail. Pool on site. Start at $345. Class Act Realty. 454-2960 Large 2 BR. Apt. For 2. $365/person, $245 for 3, A/C, dishwasher, deck/patio, laundry. Heat & water pd, 6 blocks north on School St. from ISU (309)287-1870 406 Dewey Ave: Spacious 4 bedroom, 1 bath, dishwasher, parking, laundry. All utilties included. Close to ISU. Starting $370/bedroom. 309-827-5686 One Unit Left! 401 N. Fell Ave. 4 bedroom/2 bath. Breakfast bar with stools, dishwasher, garbage disposal, washer & dryer in unit. Central air, secured building, off street parking, high speed internet provided. $530/per person. Call Excel Real Estate at 309-829-5885. Crossing Dr. Large 3 Br/2 Ba townhome. W/D $307-$367 per person. 309-8305073. See www.RLapartments.com Crossings 3 bdrm 3 bath townhome. With washer and dryer. Available June 2016. Call 3098262012 Large 2 BR. Townhouse. $565/person, $375 for 3, Prime Location, 2 blocks south of Watterson, central air, laundry in kitchen, 2 parking spaces, furniture, very nice. 610 S. Fell. 287-1870
Flora Way: Large Furnished 1,2,3 and 4 Bedrooms. Start at ONLY $325. Class Act Realty. 454-2960 301 S. WALNUT: Furnished 2 Bedrooms. Balcony, Covered parking, Laundry. Quiet Building. Start at ONLY $290 Class Act Realty. 454-2960 605-607 Kingsley Street, Normal. Furnished 4-bdrm, 3 baths, off-street parking. No pets, no smoking, no loud parties. Ten months lease. Asking rent + Utilities: $525/bdrm. Security deposit: $250/bdrm. Ph: 618-444-3968. TOWNHOMES: 2, 3 & 4 Bedrooms. Include Washer-dryer, central air, dishwasher, parking, patio and/or balcony, yard. ONLY $260-350 per bedroom. Class Act Realty. 454-2960 Fell: Spacious 2 & 4 Bedrooms. 1 block from campus. Laundry. Start at $370. Class Act Realty. 454-2960 2 bdrm studio apt. Off street parking. Newly updated. $450/mn + utilites. 2 blocks from bone center. 3098241177. Houses: 3 to 5 Bedrooms. Start at $335 per person. Walk to Campus . Class Act Realty. 454-2960 Room for rent 1106 S. University Street Normal. $350 w/shared bath. $550 w/ private bath. Month to month OK. 773505-8682. qa_elizabeth@yahoo.com
Features
THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 2016
THE VIDETTE | PAGE 7
Students find connection to community MOLLIE MCDONNELL Features Editor
Emma Horath | Vidette Photographer
Despite the crowds, you can still manage to get a workout in with these tips from the rec management.
Survive the crowds at the Rec From New Year resolutions to spring break goals, the gym is packed; but you can still fit in a workout ALYSSA GROH Senior Features Reporter
If you have been to the Rec lately, odds are you have been there when it looks like a zoo. The crowded rec may have thrown a curve ball in your workout as the newcomers who are working out for their new year resolution took your favorite machine or are standing around talking and hogging all the machines. The crowded Rec makes it hard to enjoy your workout, but Assistant Director for marketing at the Rec, Andy Read, knows the ins and outs to survive the crowded Rec.
The main reason for the increase in students at the Rec is not only to lose weight for their new year resolution, but to also get in shape for spring break, which will cause another increase in gym-goers. If you are the annoyed regular who works out at the Rec and want to know how long the Rec will stay crowded, Read says it will consistently stay busy for the rest of the semester but there will be a decrease after Spring Break. The decrease will happen due to a few reasons, Read insists. “The weather starts getting nicer and Spring Break is over so they don’t have that specific
goal and date in mind to do that [workout] and people start exercising more outside as it starts to get a little warmer,” Read said. Finding time to exercise on top of attending classes, doing homework and studying can be difficult, especially if you don’t want to work out when it is busy. According to Read, the best times to work out are the morning. “Our facility numbers are higher between 2 and 8 p.m. and earlier in the week, Monday through Wednesday are heavier.” If you get stuck at the Rec, there are a few things you can do to set yourself up for success. Avoid changing at the rec, come in your full workout attire so
you don’t have to get a locker as they are more difficult to come by when it is busy. Read recommends coming to the gym with an open mind. When it is busy at the Rec, odds are you will not be able to get on every machine you want so don’t be afraid to try new things. “If you had a specific workout in mind you might have to switch it to make the most of your time by going to a group fitness class or trying something different like working out upstairs or climbing on the wall,” Read said. Switching it up can be a fun way to try something new and work up a sweat.
‘Yes, I’ll Marry You,’ a mass marriage event GIANNA ANNUNZIO Features Reporter
If you’re looking to have a wedding ceremony that isn’t over-thetop expensive, registered officiates who can help you find a middle ground may not be too far away. This is where the officiating service “Yes, I’ll Marry You!” enters the scene, understanding the desire for a wedding at a more affordable rate. Founders Sandy Zukoski and David Kagel are currently looking for 20 couples in McLean County to be married simultaneously on Feb. 13. They call the event a “massemony,” or mass wedding ceremony. Zukoski believes the mass ceremony would be beneficial to individuals in the community, especially with the legalization of same-sex marriage. “I also worked at the party rental place Let’s Party Rental Center in town, and was doing decorating for the weddings and realized how much money people were spending,” Zukoski said. “And how much they’re trying to get it down a little bit.” Since the business is new to town, this event will stand as a unique kick-start. “We thought the big [wedding]
Jenna Kadziulus | Vidette Photographer
Bloomington company to hold multiple weddings at once at the ‘Yes, I’ll Marry You!’ event in February. was a good way to make a big splash,” Kagel said. “It’s edgy, controversial. BloomingtonNormal is kind of a conservative small town.” The massemony will stand as a great way to almost do a co-op situation: you get all the amenities of a real wedding. “You get your table for 10, everybody will get an anniversary cake top to take home, champagne at every table for our toast,” Zu-
koski said. “The photographer will give you a photo package and if you want more, you can get more from that photographer.” Regardless of the fact that there will be several other couples sharing the day, Zukoski and Kagel assure each pair will receive individual treatment. “It’s still your day,” Zukoski said. “You can still personalize it, but for a fraction of the cost. It’s affordable, it’s still a great
memory, it’s still fun. It just sort of came together that way.” So far, “Yes, I’ll Marry You!” has a few couples committed to the event, but are still looking for more to complete the idea of a “mass” ceremony. “We’re hoping we’re not going to have to cancel on the few that we have,” Zukoski said. “All we need is word out there because I think it’ll be a great event. We’ve already booked vendors, so we already have a DJ, we already have a photographer, the venue, the decorations, flowers, cakes.” The duo says they’d also like to expand the event to future locations in Peoria and Champaign. Along with continuing to do single weddings, they hope to continue the “massemony” idea several times a year. “We want to do it four times a year like winter, summer, spring, fall, themed,” Kagel said. “We did jump into this very quickly, we just started this Jan. 1. It’s coming up very quick. We thought Valentine’s Day, a lot of people might want to get married.” The massemony will be held at The Lincoln Springs Center in Bloomington. Officiates are reachable at officiants@yesillmarryyouandmore.com.
From freshman to senior year, Illinois State Univeristy’s campus transforms from an unfamiliar and exciting place to a second home away from home. While some students are locals, many hail from around the state, across country or even abroad. For these students, it can be harder to integrate themselves into the community. While locals seem to accept the students and the campus’ importance due to the balance of the education and the economy of the area, some students have a harder time feeling at home. For those having trouble getting acquainted with their Normal surroundings, junior criminal justice sciences major Bryer Serrato, says that’s something all students go through. “I feel like anyone who has ever moved in their life, it may not feel like home at first, but the more you’re here the more you get comfortable,” Serrato said. Some students feel uncomfortable in their surroundings and prefer to travel home for the weekends. While students still miss their hometowns at times, it helps to stay on campus to get more acquainted with new friends, adult responsibilities, and the community. “Now that I’m getting older though, I’m liking my independence here at school, so I’m usually staying in the Bloomington-Normal area a lot more.” While Serrato considers the Bloomington-Normal area her home while she is at school, she feels like she could get to know the community better. “I honestly don’t feel very connected to the town itself just because I am not from here, so I don’t know too much about it,” Serrato said. But as students continue their education at ISU, the knowledge and comfortableness in the community seem to be a trend. Katelyn Mudd, junior human development and family resources major, feels she has grown a connection to the community as an upperclassman. “I feel more connected now that I have had an off-campus job, an internship, and am 21,” Mudd said. Students who work off-campus get to see more of the town and what it has to offer. With more time spent offcampus, students can get a feel for the area, not just the college. “I have to travel off campus multiple times a week,” Mudd said. For students looking to feel more of a connection to the community and get more involved, Mudd suggests to be proactive, “Go get a job or hobby to get you off campus,” Mudd said. Serrato agrees that this is the best way to get comfortable with the community. “I think that students should do things like get a part time job if they are able,” Serrato said. “It’s a great way to meet people from ISU, Wesleyan, and even students who are from this area.” Other ways students can get involved in the community is through volunteer work and attending local events. These are great ways to meet local community members and participate in town events as an active citizen. Take the opportunity to get acquainted with the town and the local community while you have the chance. “Be social and be out and about while you’re here,” Serrato said. “You’re only in college for four years, and before you know it it’s over.”
PAGE 8 | SPORTS | THE VIDETTE
Dancing into faith
THURSDAY, JANUARY 28, 2016
Senior gymnast Danci Cha balances athletics, religion; creates new Athletes InterVarsity community for ISU athletes JOSH TOLENTINO Sports Editor
right path.” But following that path is not always easy. Growing up devoted to religion As Cha progressed with Intercan be difficult in today’s society. Varsity throughout her college Research has shown young people, career, she wanted to spread her more specifically college students, faith with her teammates and felhave strayed away from believing in low student-athletes. God, a greater being or having faith It has been a tall task that Cha all together. hasn’t shied away from. Senior gymnast Danci Cha was Just this past week, Cha helped raised in a religious family but it lead the first ever Athletes Inwasn’t until her senior year of high terVarsity meeting in which she school when she realized she had a hosted a handful of ISU studentpurpose in life and knew she wanted athletes. to continue progress“It’s been hard. It’s not me ing in her faith. calling other people, it’s God. He “I grew up goworks in mysterious ways and has ing to church but allowed others to join and find I don’t think I was Him. Last semester, it just so hapa Christian until pened David Ndiaye and Justin the summer before McCloud came up to the InterVarDanci Cha college when I was sity table at Festival ISU. Courtnee encouraged to share Cossell came to a meeting one time a testimony,” Cha and brought Rhianna Krutz. It said. “I’ve never shared a testimony hasn’t been my work, it’s His will.” before, I was kind of just like, ‘okay Amidst the grind and demands it’s just a thing where you talk about of being a Division I athlete, a God.’ It wasn’t until I actually sat handful of ISU student-athletes down and reflected on how God had have been able to take a step back been working in my life. I really felt and gather as a community with a Him working in my life. I knew it common purpose. when I decided to come to ISU.” “It’s nice to find Athletes InterDuring her junior year of high Varsity on our campus,” McCloud school, Cha received interest and sevsaid. “Religion has always been a eral offers from big-name programs part of my life. I’m a believer and I including Arizona State, Arkansas, try to carry that with me into every California and Ball State. The Milgame. I’m allowed to be here and waukee, Wis., native knew it would play basketball because of Him. I be difficult to maintain her relationwant to give Him praise in every ship with God moving away from way. her family. She made it a goal to stay “It’s great to know there are othsomewhat close to home. er athletes there who share that Illinois State University gymnassame interest in love. Hopefully, tics coach Bob Conkling invited Cha we can make this thing grow.” to ISU for an unofficial visit and she Prayer and religion can be a trekked her way down to Normal. tricky thing. It’s a tough problem She arrived at ISU not all that imwhen one feels disconnected from pressed with the athletic department God or any higher being. Cha and its facilities, noting that Horton knows prayer doesn’t guarantee Fieldhouse — where ISU gymnastics happiness, but instead paves the meets are held — was older compared way for a deeper relationship with to other facilities. However, Cha God and her faith. enjoyed the company of Conkling and From waking up at 5 a.m. every assistant coaches Stephen Avgerinos day to read her Bible, to numerous and Andrea Orris. prayers and writing in her journal “Bob, Steve and Dre were rethroughout the day despite a ally welcoming. They told me their hectic gymnastics schedule, Cha personal stories and how they always finds time to mature and enjoyed their time at ISU. Dre told grow spiritually. Her coach praises me all about her experience with ISU the attitude and mindset she’s gymnastics. It made me look past the brought to the team. surroundings and I looked deep into “Danci is such a joy,” Conkling the people within the program. They said. “She’s so fun to watch on were all so nice.” the floor being such a talented After her visit to ISU, Conkling athlete. She’s always been firm in offered Cha a full ride scholarship her beliefs outside gymnastics and with a two-week time frame to make that is something the entire team her decision. Despite interest from respects. I’m really pulling for her other universities in warmer climates and she deserves to be successful Morgan Kuniej | Staff Photographer her senior year.” or with better facilities, Cha made her Danci Cha perfoms her bars routine at last Friday’s tri-meet against Lindenwood and Ball State at Horton Fieldhouse. decision and found her second home ISU gymnastics has been strugat ISU. gling this season and is currently lege students of the same belief. During her one’s religious beliefs. Cha knew arriving on campus, however, in a funk, placing third in its last two meets. second semester of her freshman year, she A recent study conducted by UCLA/ would still be a struggle. Along with moving With plenty of room for improvement for all discovered the RSO, InterVarsity. ABC News discovered 52 percent of college away from home for the first time and being the gymnasts, Cha avoids letting her perfor“I’ve had my ups and downs [with Instudents said they attended religious services a devoted Christian, Cha is also of Asian mance define her. Rather, gymnastics and terVarsity],” Cha said. “It was really hard frequently the year before entering college, decent. Currently, she is one of just two (Leia spreading awareness among ISU athletes is a to really find a good balance maintaining but by their junior undergraduate year atAtas, women’s golf) Asian athletes at ISU, platform for her to share her faith. gymnastics, classes and InterVarsity. Back at tendance had dropped to 29 percent. which houses over 400 student-athletes. “The biggest challenge is feeling a sense of home, I didn’t have to worry so much about The lack of a religious community at colFeeling isolated was an understatement. dissonance. It’s hard being so different than everything. Back at home, I didn’t have as lege did not stop Cha’s faith from influenc“Coming onto campus, I realized how easy everyone. I’m the first generation in my fammany obligations with gymnastics, it was ing the way she lived on a day-to-day basis it was to quickly fall out of your faith. I was ily going to college. This is something kind just go to practice after school all the time. and how she competed. A health education scared.” out of the ordinary. Feeling disconnected It wasn’t how it was now…with weights, major and public health minor, Cha knew Studies have shown college is a period of from my team, athletics in general and on traveling and maintaining a certain GPA. All she wanted to find an organization where intellectual exploration and discovery of new this campus.” of these details have played into walking the she could feel comfortable with other colactivities, which over time has weakened See CHA page 6
“Coming onto campus, I realized how easy it was to quickly fall out of your faith...the biggest challenge is feeling a sense of dissonance...My biggest goal for Athletes InterVarsity is to create a safe environement for other athletes, no matter what team they come from.” - DANCI CHA