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(02/07/01 4:52am)
The race to win control of the IU Student Association became one ticket smaller this week after an IUSA declaration. The elections commissioner declared the Students Concerned with University Matters (SCUM) ticket ineligible Monday. The group has decided to remain involved in the election under the auspices of the Optimistic New Energy (ONE) ticket.\nIUSA declared SCUM ineligible because a congressional candidate was needed to complete the ticket, according to an e-mail sent by the IUSA elections commissioner. \nFormer IUSA senator and current ONE campaign manager senior Eli Ewing said the IUSA Congress decided last year to adopt codes increasing election inclusion. In a near-unanimous vote, the Congress passed a bill enabling congressional candidates to run together and executive candidates to seek office without an official ticket name.\nEwing said he believes SCUM's ineligibility results from a misreading of the election code. He claims IUSA based its arguments on the old code and failed to consider last year's legislation.\n"Initially, we were shocked," admitted former SCUM presidential candidate Andrew Hodgetts, a sophomore. "We thought we had read the rules fairly well, and hadn't noticed this particular provision. We looked over it again, and there was still some confusion as to whether or not we had actually broken the election laws."\nExpressing admiration for SCUM's proactive efforts in "bringing IUSA back to the students" -- SCUM's main goal -- ONE presidential candidate, senior Justin Treasure, supported the tickets' merger. He said the tickets plan to work on short-term issues while broadening the scope of IUSA itself.\n"SCUM's platform centered itself around campus involvement, an issue which the ONE ticket has been concerned with from day one," Treasure said. "As the other ticket comprised entirely of ambitious students outside of the current organization, we were sympathetic to the difficulty SCUM faced in getting involved in IUSA."\nHodgetts attributed SCUM's support of ONE to the need to increase voter turnout. Both groups advocate restoring IUSA to a student organization as opposed to its current state, what Ewing termed "bureaucracy." By rallying SCUM supporters to back ONE, both tickets said they believe SCUM's key goal can still be attained.\nBoth groups, accompanied by comedy troupe All Sorts of Trouble for the Boy in the Bubble, will conduct a press conference tonight at 7 p.m. in the Redbud Room of the Indiana Memorial Union. Interested students are invited to attend.\n"We believe that together we have an even better chance of creating a much more student-friendly IUSA, one in which every student has both the capability and inclination to get involved," Treasure concluded.
(02/05/01 5:38am)
Declaring its dedication to increasing student participation in the IU Student Association, the SCUM ticket announced Friday its official candidacy in the IUSA election. Candidates are sophomore Andrew Hodgetts, president; freshman Johnathan Roque, vice president; freshman Matt Brown, vice president for Congress, and freshman Ryan Yoshimoto, treasurer.\nStudents Concerned with University Matters cites its main goal as increasing student involvement in decision-making processes on campus. According to the group's official platform, 16 percent of students currently vote in IUSA elections. The ticket said this small percentage cannot be construed as a mandate. Thus, if elected, Roque said they hope to achieve greater voting turnout in coming elections.\n"Only a miniscule part of the student body actually knows what the IUSA does," Roque said. "Not only do we want to increase student involvement, we plan to teach students to be good citizens indirectly."\nGroup members said they plan to increase correspondence between residence halls, greek houses and off-campus students. They said this proposal would contribute to greater collaboration between diverse groups on campus. Coupled with online polling initiatives, the effort further supports the group's key aim.\n"If we are to make one promise during our campaign, it will be that we will heed the voters and non-voters alike," Hodgett said. "If they should wish to contact us any time, they should feel free to."\nYoshimoto agreed with Hodgett, stressing the importance of allowing individual students opportunity to voice concerns. \n"I want to put more pressure on the congressional representatives to find out what the people in their region want," he said. "I have never been asked by my current rep to voice my concerns. In fact, I don't even know who my rep is. That's a shame."\nThe ticket also plans to implement, if elected, a monthly "State of the IUSA" address. This statement, written by the president, would enable a vehicle through which students could become aware of pressing IUSA issues and developments.\n"I feel that IUSA can do a better job of being 'a government of the students," Yoshimoto said. "We can make that happen"
(02/01/01 4:58pm)
Picket signs and chants greeted motorists traveling past the Indiana Capitol Tuesday in Indianapolis. As the 5 p.m. rush hour approached, about 40 students representing eight Indiana universities gathered to garner support for tax-free textbooks.\nState representatives Sheila Klinker and Mark Kruzan recently introduced bills to the Indiana General Assembly exempting students from the 5 percent textbook sales tax, according to the IU Student Association Legislative Relations Office. Coupled with IUSA's fall petition drive, which generated more than 13,000 signatures supporting the exemption, the proposed legislation has buffered support from numerous student government groups statewide.\nThe House Ways and Means Committee is now debating the bill, said IUSA senator Lara Kalwinski, a sophomore. It should make its final decision concerning the bill's fate by the end of February. \nKlinker was present Wednesday to address the crowd, which gathered after the protest in the capitol rotunda. In her remarks, she indicated her unwavering support for the inter-campus efforts.\n"Never before have I received more support in co-sponsoring a bill than in this one at this time," Klinker said.\nIUSA congressman Justin Barnes, a sophomore, said government and campus groups must maintain close working relationships for this proposal to become reality. At Tuesday's rally eight representatives were present, including one state senator. IU, Purdue, Ball State, Butler and Valparaiso Universities, as well as the University of Evansville and Manchester College, were represented.\nAfter Klinker's remarks, students from each institution outlined proposals for further action and discussed their schools' efforts thus far.\nRoan Down, Manchester College student body president, said groups of students and faculty on his campus are continuing efforts to raise visibility, including a letter-writing campaign and community-wide phone calls. \nJunior Ben Piper, IUSA legislative relations director, said IUSA will continue similar efforts on the Bloomington campus as well.\n"Fundamentally, this is a matter of fixing something that's wrong," Piper said. "We expect to see our legislators working harder to approve this in the coming weeks. We want them to know that we're here, and we aren't going to stop fighting for this until textbooks are tax-free"
(01/25/01 5:22am)
Devin McGuire stands before a class of about 30 students at the Student Recreational Sports Center. The group has men and women, students and Bloomington residents, young and old alike. \nBarefoot and casually dressed, McGuire strides unassumingly across the room, greeting newcomers and passing out floor mats. His voice is soft and unpretentious. Even the muscle-bound men, who are wary of the class and whose eyes dart furtively around the room, seem to relax a bit.\nThat's McGuire's intention. He begins class with a simple question:\n"Why yoga?"\nThe class falls silent.\n"To relieve stress," one student remarks nearly inaudibly.\n"And why do you think yoga will help you do that?"\n"I don't know, it just seems healthier," the voice replies.\nMcGuire chuckles. "Indeed."\nHe goes on to describe the other physical benefits of yoga: Besides an improved mind-body connection, yoga has been often prescribed to aid back pain, heart problems, depression and other conditions. Because of its nonstrenuous nature, even novice exercisers safely practice the method. \nShoes begin to slip off as students sit cross-legged on soft mats, the sole equipment needed for traditional hatha yoga. A combination of poses designed to improve physical awareness, hatha yoga facilitates increased flexibility and muscle tone. \nThe precise chronological emergence of hatha yoga is debatable, but 5,000-year-old stone carvings depicting yoga positions exist in archeological sites in the Indus Valley. A collection of writings titled "Yoga Aphorisms," dating back to the first or second century B.C., is further indicative of yoga's prehistoric origins. \nAccording to the American Yoga Association, the manuscript details ashtanga yoga, a precise method containing eight steps: restraint, observance, physical exercises, breathing techniques, preparation for meditation, concentration, meditation and absorption. \nBut McGuire doesn't elaborate on the specifics; he instead instructs the students to lie flat on their backs, extending arms and pointing toes. \nStrolling quietly around the room, he then asks each individual to focus on the weight of his body on the floor, on the undeniable force of gravity. Closing their eyes, students begin to increase awareness of breath. McGuire next describes physiological processes involved with each inhale and exhale, asking each student to visualize perfect breathing technique.\n"Follow your breath," McGuire cautions. "It will lead you toward well-being."\nThe class continues with a series of both prone and standing poses designed to increase awareness of body symmetry and balance. Maintaining good breathing techniques becomes more difficult as students struggle to engage the "core" muscles of the abdominals and lower back, to concentrate on proper form.\nFreshman Liz Weikes, a participant with prior yoga experience, lauds the SRSC for incorporating mind-body techniques into its group exercise sessions. \n"As a gymnast for 15 years, maintaining flexibility is important," says Weikes. "When I was 16, I found that it was becoming more and more difficult to maintain the body needed to be a competitive gymnast. Yoga helped me maintain my proper physique and also relaxed me. Although I work out strenuously, I have found that yoga helps my body remain flexible."\nMcGuire has been teaching yoga at the SRSC since the program's inception four year ago. Buoyed by a career as a high school athlete, McGuire began reading yoga-related literature while attending IU during the 1970s. He began more rigorous study in the 1980s. In the early '90s, the yoga craze bombarded the United States. While there is no nationally recognized certification program for yoga instructors, the team leader, Cherry Darriau, is certified through a weekend program and conducts regular training sessions for SRSC instructors.\nA free shuttle runs to the SRSC from 5:30 to 10:30 each weeknight. The SRSC programs are seven weeks in duration. For a $25 fee, students may register for one of four possible days to attend the 75-minute class. A free "Yoga Sampler" class is also available for those with no prior experience. \nIndividuals with more extensive experience may register for Yoga II sessions, says Kimberly Ruff, director of marketing and sponsorship for the IU Division of Recreational Sports. These classes range from vigorous vinyasa, in which breathing is emphasized in a system of flowing movements, to intermediate yoga, which introduces more rigorous poses, to Himalayan yoga, an advanced study accentuating stress reduction and management.
(01/25/01 5:00am)
Devin McGuire stands before a class of about 30 students at the Student Recreational Sports Center. The group has men and women, students and Bloomington residents, young and old alike. \nBarefoot and casually dressed, McGuire strides unassumingly across the room, greeting newcomers and passing out floor mats. His voice is soft and unpretentious. Even the muscle-bound men, who are wary of the class and whose eyes dart furtively around the room, seem to relax a bit.\nThat's McGuire's intention. He begins class with a simple question:\n"Why yoga?"\nThe class falls silent.\n"To relieve stress," one student remarks nearly inaudibly.\n"And why do you think yoga will help you do that?"\n"I don't know, it just seems healthier," the voice replies.\nMcGuire chuckles. "Indeed."\nHe goes on to describe the other physical benefits of yoga: Besides an improved mind-body connection, yoga has been often prescribed to aid back pain, heart problems, depression and other conditions. Because of its nonstrenuous nature, even novice exercisers safely practice the method. \nShoes begin to slip off as students sit cross-legged on soft mats, the sole equipment needed for traditional hatha yoga. A combination of poses designed to improve physical awareness, hatha yoga facilitates increased flexibility and muscle tone. \nThe precise chronological emergence of hatha yoga is debatable, but 5,000-year-old stone carvings depicting yoga positions exist in archeological sites in the Indus Valley. A collection of writings titled "Yoga Aphorisms," dating back to the first or second century B.C., is further indicative of yoga's prehistoric origins. \nAccording to the American Yoga Association, the manuscript details ashtanga yoga, a precise method containing eight steps: restraint, observance, physical exercises, breathing techniques, preparation for meditation, concentration, meditation and absorption. \nBut McGuire doesn't elaborate on the specifics; he instead instructs the students to lie flat on their backs, extending arms and pointing toes. \nStrolling quietly around the room, he then asks each individual to focus on the weight of his body on the floor, on the undeniable force of gravity. Closing their eyes, students begin to increase awareness of breath. McGuire next describes physiological processes involved with each inhale and exhale, asking each student to visualize perfect breathing technique.\n"Follow your breath," McGuire cautions. "It will lead you toward well-being."\nThe class continues with a series of both prone and standing poses designed to increase awareness of body symmetry and balance. Maintaining good breathing techniques becomes more difficult as students struggle to engage the "core" muscles of the abdominals and lower back, to concentrate on proper form.\nFreshman Liz Weikes, a participant with prior yoga experience, lauds the SRSC for incorporating mind-body techniques into its group exercise sessions. \n"As a gymnast for 15 years, maintaining flexibility is important," says Weikes. "When I was 16, I found that it was becoming more and more difficult to maintain the body needed to be a competitive gymnast. Yoga helped me maintain my proper physique and also relaxed me. Although I work out strenuously, I have found that yoga helps my body remain flexible."\nMcGuire has been teaching yoga at the SRSC since the program's inception four year ago. Buoyed by a career as a high school athlete, McGuire began reading yoga-related literature while attending IU during the 1970s. He began more rigorous study in the 1980s. In the early '90s, the yoga craze bombarded the United States. While there is no nationally recognized certification program for yoga instructors, the team leader, Cherry Darriau, is certified through a weekend program and conducts regular training sessions for SRSC instructors.\nA free shuttle runs to the SRSC from 5:30 to 10:30 each weeknight. The SRSC programs are seven weeks in duration. For a $25 fee, students may register for one of four possible days to attend the 75-minute class. A free "Yoga Sampler" class is also available for those with no prior experience. \nIndividuals with more extensive experience may register for Yoga II sessions, says Kimberly Ruff, director of marketing and sponsorship for the IU Division of Recreational Sports. These classes range from vigorous vinyasa, in which breathing is emphasized in a system of flowing movements, to intermediate yoga, which introduces more rigorous poses, to Himalayan yoga, an advanced study accentuating stress reduction and management.
(12/11/00 5:44am)
In response to his book "Song and Story in Biblical Narrative," Associate Professor Steve Weitzman has been awarded the Gustave O. Arlt Award in Religious Studies by the Council of Graduate Schools. Weitzman formally accepted the award and its supplementary $1,000 grant at the Council's annual meeting Thursday in New Orleans.\nEstablished in 1971 by the Council's first president, Arlt, the award recognizes scholars who have written books "representing an outstanding contribution to scholarship in the humanities," according to the Council of Graduate Studies. \nDepartmental chairs or directors of graduate study at univerities nationwide nominate candidates. IU's nomination process is completed by members of the Awards and Financial Aid Committee of the IU Graduate Council, said Richard Miller, chairman of the religious studies department.\nTo be considered, a nominee's work must have been published within seven years of the award, and the individual must hold a position in a North American university. Additionally, nominees must have received a doctorate from a North American university within the past seven years.\nWeitzman was nominated by former religious studies department chair Robert Orsi last spring and was notified of the acceptance committee's decision last week. Orsi nominated him because of positive acclaim surrounding "Song and Story in Biblical Narrative," a work based on his 1993 doctoral dissertation at Harvard University and published in 1997.\nThe book focuses primarily on the intermingling in biblical texts of song and story, of prose and poetry, Weitzman said. Distinguishing this practice as pivotal to expression of Jewish and Christian tales alike, Weitzman deems the book his "best attempt to reconstruct what motivated this practice and how it was employed."\nWeitzman said his interest in the topic is twofold. Through the examination of the "art" of biblical narrative, he said he grappled with the logic supporting such an eclectic mix of song and story. This analysis prompted him to investigate the interpretation, especially by early Jews, of such combinations and the subsequent susceptibility of revision to biblical texts.\n"What is most interesting about this topic is what it says about the transformative power of reading, its ability to reshape what it is interpreting," Weitzman said. "The history of reading is central to my scholarship and teaching, and I find it to be one of the most fascinating aspects of human experience. The history of biblical interpretation is an especially rich resource for understanding reading as a religious and cultural act since the Bible has been read in so many different ways by so many different kinds of interpreters."\nWeitzman is the first IU faculty member to receive this prestigious award since Associate Professor Jan Nattier won the competition seven years ago, Miller said. \n"This is the sixth major book award garnered by a religious studies faculty member during the last 10 years," he said. "To the best of my knowledge, our track record has no parallel in other departments of religious studies in the United States. Weitzman's award is another indicator of the creativity and productivity of this department."\nWeitzman succeeded colleague Professor Emeritus Jim Ackerman in the position of Hebrew biblical study. Ackerman noted that Weitzman interviewed before beginning work on his doctoral dissertation, a prerequisite to the position. But the interview was "the best the department has ever seen." As a result, Weitzman spent the next two weeks completing his dissertation proposal, finishing it a year and a half later in what Ackerman called "mind-blowing speed."\nAckerman further praised Weitzman. "One of Steve's most impressive qualities is not only his high intelligence but how quickly he is able to focus and produce research of the top order"
(12/08/00 6:02am)
As a result of a decision Director John Bancroft deemed instrumental in promoting "accessibility and understanding," the controversial Kinsey Institute for Research in Sex, Gender and Reproduction will open its doors for public tours. Tours are slated for Dec. 15, Jan. 19 and Feb. 16.\nThe idea was suggested by Jennifer Bass, head of information services at Kinsey. Providing tours to the public was a natural "next step" in the institute's evolution, Bancroft said. \nEstablished in 1947 by professor Albert Kinsey, the nonprofit organization was supported by former University Chancellor Herman B Wells. In addition to research and teaching, the institute maintains the Kinsey Institute Sexuality Information Service for Students (KISISS), an interactive Web site. The group also runs the Sexual Health Clinic in the Health Center.\nBancroft said June Reinisch, Kinsey's previous director, "laid great emphasis on public outreach with her Kinsey Columns syndicated across the world." \n"During my time we have been more focused on outreach to the academic and professional communities," he said.\nCollections at the institute are from six continents, and include books, serials, art, photographs and films that document sexual behaviors, interests and values. The forthcoming tours mark the first time in institute history that such documents will be publicly exhibited. \n"We want students to know what we have to offer and what goes on here," Bass said. "That we are engaged in the interdisciplinary study of sexuality, and that we offer resources for students while they're here at IU, for study and personal help. It seemed like a natural progression to reach out to the broader Bloomington community."\nBass said the institute has always been considered controversial.\n"The institute has been involved in controversy since its inception," she said. "There are people who feel that sex should not be discussed in a public forum, not studied or taught, and see us as actually causing societal problems relating to sex. These people would also like to do away with sex education, and any public discussion of the topic."\nBut she added that such groups are in fact minorities whose claims have been repeatedly disproven. Bass acknowledged the institute's research reputation as its "greatest defense."\nShe also stressed that, because of explicit images, much of the work contained in the institute's gallery is inappropriate for children.\nThe institute encourages professors to structure class-related visits on a voluntary basis.\nThe greatest testimony to the institute's increasing public support might be sheer statistics. Tours have already been booked through March 2001.\nFreshman Alicia Johnson, who is designing a major in sex therapy through the Individualized Major Program, cited the institute's endeavor as "vital to increasing awareness about trends in sexuality and gender"
(12/01/00 4:33am)
Building on a 91-year history of campus-wide programming services, Union Board will wrapup its week of directorship campaigning in an open forum today in the Indiana Memorial Union Gallery at 7 p.m. Functioning primarily as a means of educating students on the organizations' objectives and visionary proposals, the forum will allow candidates to discuss their goals for the future of Union Board.\nUnion Board directors serve as liaisons between the IMU and the Bloomington campus, according to the IMU constitution. Directors must commit 15-30 hours per week to developing programming initiatives and maintaining effective committee development.\nSixteen directorship positions are chosen through electoral and interview processes. Interested individuals were required to submit applications including their campaign platform by Nov. 15. That evening, all applicants attended an orientation meeting detailing the election process.\nBeginning Monday, candidates were permitted to begin campaigning campus-wide. The week will culminate with tonight's forum, during which each of the 22 candidates will be allowed two minutes to state his or her platform. Questions will follow the prepared remarks.\nMike Gosman, Union Board president, encouraged students to attend the forum and, consequently, turn out to elect the organization's leaders for the 2001 school year. Because Union Board is a student-run group charged with sole responsibility for determining campus-wide programming, input from students affected by its efforts is vital to the organization's success and subsequent popularity on campus, Gosman said.\n"Each candidate has different ideas for what sorts of events Union Board should provide for the campus," he said. "This is the students' chance to decide what Union Board's lineup of events, including lectures, concerts and films and much, much more will include."\nSophomore candidate Laura Edwards hopes to convey this idea through "programming to every student." Noting that certain sectors of the campus population are often excluded from programming activities, she said she aims to offer a wide array of activities appealing to even the most disregarded groups.\n"Virtually everyone is a member of Union Board by virtue of the student activity fee," she said. "That's money they're paying; they deserve an equal say in where it goes."\nUnion Board election co-coordinator Stacy Kaplowitz, a junior, agreed with Gosman. \n"What is so unique about the Board is that students really have the say in what events are to be put on," she said. "For example, instead of complaining that 'so and so' should have put on a concert here instead of Indiana State, students have the opportunity to join the concerts committee and work with the director in the booking process. Being a part of the Board gives students the opportunity to get experience in event planning, and more importantly, in the execution process."\nElections will take place from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the IMU East Lounge, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on the ground floor of Ballantine Hall, and from noon to 8 p.m. in the Main Library lobby Tuesday. Results will be computer-tabulated Tuesday evening, according to the Union Board selection overview committee.
(12/01/00 4:32am)
Tom Jackson spoke of genocide. Quietly, yet directly, he told the crowd of approximately 35 gathered in Woodburn Hall Thursday night of the rampant sickness he had witnessed, of the headless children and the severely dehydrated, withered bodies piled on twin beds. He told of a lack of medicinal supplies, of the skeletons of shelled cars along the "Highway of Death." He detailed the effects of over 140,000 metric tons of missile ammunition deployed in a country most Americans perceive to be the cause of the Gulf War.\nTom Jackson spoke of Iraq. Although the Persian Gulf crisis lasted a mere 42 days in terms of actual warfare and bombing, the war is still very much raging in the formerly emergent First World country. Reduced to Third World status and cut off from international trade and supplies, Iraq experienced a "total, purposeful destruction of its infrastructure," resulting in destruction of 119 substations, seven out of eight hydroelectric plants, and all but two water treatment plants. The results, as Jackson has seen firsthand, have been devastating.\nJackson, a graduate of the University of Vermont School of Law, is part of Voices in the Wilderness, an organization aimed at ending the United Nations Security Council and United States economic sanctions against Iraq. Since its 1996 inception, more than 30 delegates have been dispatched to the struggling country, violating U.S. law and risking up to 12 years in prison and more than a million dollars in fines, according to organization literature. Championing peaceful resistance and opposition, the group stands firmly against 10 years of economic embargo in the Middle East.\nSanctions began immediately following the Gulf conflict and are dedicated to preventing Iraq's development of weapons of mass-destruction, coupled with the hopes of taming leader Saddam Hussein. The federal government cites the effort as against "one man," according to a report by the Seattle Times.\nBut Jackson said he believes the price is paid by families of the 5,000 children who die per month as the result of what he described as poor water purification, cancers believed to be caused by radioactive elements in missiles and diseases that could be tamed should Iraq receive the basic medicines necessary for treatment.\nThe policy, cited by the Chicago Tribune as "a humanitarian and diplomatic disaster," violates a 1991 cease-fire agreement through nearly daily bombing in no-fly zones in Iraq. Additionally, while Britain and England act as chief supporters, the United Nations sanctions violate Geneva Protocol 1, which condemns starvation of civilians as a warfare method, according to Voice in the Wilderness material.\nJackson spoke of these issues personally, having visited Iraq in the summer of 2000 as part of an "oil-for-food" delegation. Jackson and fellow speaker Lauren Cannon lived with Iraqi families and were tutored daily in Arabic, hoping to document the tragic stories of the civilian victims. What they saw, they claimed, was horrific.\nCiting increases in infant mortality and birth defects, declines in health and education standards and a rise in death rates from treatable ailments as sanction byproducts, Jackson and Cannon related their experiences of interaction with such victims. They spoke of the abominable conditions in Iraqi hospitals, noting the absence of basic medicine and cleaning supplies, outlawed by the sanctions committee due to possibility of chemical manufacturing.\nUpon returning to the United States, Voices in the Wilderness activists strive to "find actions commensurate to what we've seen," Cannon said.\nHaving served time in a maximum-security prison for peaceful opposition to a Massachusetts armaments factory manufacturing missiles used in Iraq, Cannon acknowledges the risk involved.\nBut she said, "I have seen children dying of simple illness, while their mothers sit helplessly by. In 50 years we will wonder, 'Where was the world when Iraqi children were dying?'"\nThrough activist efforts, Cannon said she hopes to educate the American public on its government's international policies.\nOne student who attended was Kathryn Bryan, a senior.\n"This lecture was important because it involved the Bloomington community and student groups and peace and justice human rights issues," she said.\nBryan said she wants to work more with human rights and is hoping to organize a group of students to visit Iraq to participate in an anti-sanctions movement there.\nJackson and Cannon will deliver an address entitled "How to Build a Social Movement" in Collins Cheshire Cafe today at 4 p.m. Additionally, a post office action will be conducted today at noon at the Fourth Street Post Office, in which medicine will be attempted to be sent to Iraq despite U.S. sanctions against such shipment.
(11/29/00 4:08am)
Eighteen-year-old Mike Gregg has an honest face. Dark brown and piercing, with intense depth, his eyes are searching, springing to life with vigor as he speaks. Words come easily to the articulate sophomore from Cincinnati. His remarks are unguarded, even candid. \nTo passers-by, a conversation would seem relatively insignificant; with his khaki pants, twill shirt and backpack, Gregg seems like a typical college student on a typical weekday afternoon.\nBut Gregg is gay. During the past year, his struggle to come to terms with his own sexuality has become synonymous with a great task: determining his personal identity in an unfamiliar environment. \nLast October, as a freshman, with internal pressures searing his conscience, Gregg called the Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgendered Student Support Services office on campus. Thirty minutes later, he was sitting in a small conference room in the GLBT facility on East Seventh Street, tears streaming, as he finally confronted the burden that had weighed on his soul since fourth grade.\n"Back then, I had ideas, ideas I couldn't exactly identify, but I knew something wasn't right," said Gregg, smiling slightly. "By seventh grade, I was terrified at the prospects of being gay, because I could label it. I could identify it."\nGregg's situation is not unique. He is one of hundreds of admittedly gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgendered students on campus, according to the GLBT office. At some point, each student faced the difficulty of admitting his or her sexuality to a community of 35,000, a daunting task darkened with the shroud of collective disapproval.\nWrestling with identity\nNoting the negative connotations placed upon homosexuality, Gregg said he tried to deny his intuition. He believed he didn't adhere to the typecast. \n"I tried to tell myself it was just a phase, something I was going through," he said.\nFinally, he turned to an administrative official in his school for guidance. Rather than admitting his tendencies openly, he hinted at the possibility of homosexuality. \nWhile the support he consequently received was alleviating, Gregg continued to deny his suspicions throughout high school.\nAs part of a graduating class of about 150 from a small Catholic school, Gregg threw himself into school and work, "anything," he said, "to keep my mind off what troubled me every single day of my life." In the midst of such intense study, it was barely noticed that Gregg didn't really date.\n"There was one girl people thought I was dating," he admits, "but we were just friends. I kind of let my friends believe whatever they desired; it kept them from asking me outright." When friends would refer to homosexuality in everyday banter, Gregg said he withdrew somewhat, but, it was never noticed. But the mention of derogatory slurs scared him.\n"I'm not an actor, exactly," Gregg said. "However, I put on this act to friends and family that I was very much straight." \nLost on campus\nFor Gregg, the transition from the small, close-knit community of his youth to a campus of 35,000 proved emotionally draining. Without a stable support base of close friends, Gregg was lonely. Shortly after entering IU as a freshman, he began what would become a six-week heterosexual relationship. Eventually, as internal turmoil increased substantially, he was forced to break off the relationship.\n"After getting out of that relationship, I just had to talk to somebody," he said. \nEnter Doug Bauder, coordinator of Student Support Services for GLBT and the first individual in whom Gregg confided.\n"From the moment I met Mike, I knew he would make it through this transition," Bauder said. "He was aware of the resources available to him, but he was unsure and needed a friend. I was able to provide that relationship to him."\nAfter Gregg's initial confession, Bauder paired him with senior David Reinwald through the Peer Support Program, a GLBT enterprise begun four years ago to provide students an opportunity to discuss issues related to sexuality. Reinwald instantly recognized in Gregg a sense of personal empowerment, of inner strength.\n"Mike was strong from the beginning," Reinwald said. "The program has a lot to offer, but it's up to the student to extract what they can from it. Mike's strength enabled him to realize it was he who was making this huge transition. It was up to him."\nStephanie Burnett, a graduate student involved in the counseling program, said the peer supporter listens to the student's concerns, provides resources and, more often than not, can relate some common experiences and emotions.\n"It's amazing how powerful sharing a common experience can be when a student is coming out. Often, a student will not know anybody else who identifies as gay or lesbian, so meeting another person and hearing that they too went through similar experiences can be very therapeutic," Burnett said. "The program is a confidential place for a student in the process of coming out to talk to someone who has been there before. \n"It's a discreet first step to let a student know that he or she is not alone."\nSpreading the word\nWith Reinwald's assistance, Gregg initiated the process of coming out to friends and family, beginning with his roommate. Citing the revelation as an "amazing event," Gregg lauds his roommate as one of his chief supporters.\n"We were very close by the time I came out," Gregg said. "He talked to me at length about various relationships he was in; I wanted to do the same, to share my experiences. So I went out on a limb and told him." After nearly a full minute of "awkward smiles," the two began talking animatedly. \nNow, both serve on GLBT-sponsored panel discussions designed to educate straight and gay students in a variety of sexual issues, which Gregg cites as a definite step toward breaking down stereotypes.\nOpportunities exist to ease the transition. OUT, the GLBT's student union, offers numerous support services, such as the Anti-Harassment Team, a personal support staff that counsels victims of harassment on a one-on-one basis, as well as events such as Miss Gay IU and Lesbopalooza, which took place Oct. 14 in Woodlawn Field. OUT sponsors the Safe Zone program, which designates automobile stickers representing the denouncement of all harassment and intolerance. \nAdditional programs target those involved in the greek system. Lambda 10 "works to heighten the visibility of gay, lesbian and bisexual members of the college fraternity by serving as a clearinghouse for resources and educational materials related to sexual orientation in the fraternity and sorority experience," according to the group's Web site.\nLife's ultimate questions\nInsecurity might result from religious circumstances. With a strong spiritual foundation rooted firmly in Catholicism, Gregg acknowledges the difficulties coming out generates in religious communities. But he heralds the role of family support in superseding such doubts. \n"For a lot of people, especially guys, who are coming out or in the closet, religion plays a significant role in their decision. They're afraid of what their families might think. But I think a lot of them may actually be surprised," he said.\nBauder agreed with Gregg. Equipped with considerable training in pastoral and clinical counseling, Bauder equates confronting one's sexuality with deeply significant spiritual questions.\n"Students struggling with the state of their sexuality are essentially asking life's ultimate questions," he said. "They're wondering what their families will think, yes, but most importantly, they're attempting to determine whether they can integrate their new lifestyle with their religious beliefs. And I believe they can do that. They don't have to throw it all away"
(11/13/00 5:21am)
Faculty from several departments in the College of Arts and Sciences are collaborating to help bring a new, broad-based major in what they hope will better involve students in the global community.\nA panel of six faculty assembled Friday in the Indiana Memorial Union's Frangipani Room to field questions about the recently conceptualized international studies major.\nThe proposal is scheduled to be reviewed in the spring by Indiana's Higher Education Commission, and the panel addressed the viability of the proposed major as an extension of IU's historical strength in areas of international study.\nPatrick O'Meara, dean of International Programs, said the proposed major is "timely for the Bloomington campus," and stressed the importance of consensus among students and faculty, in addition to solid organization. O'Meara said it will take the initiatives of students to create a "rich, intellectual experience thus far merely tapped into with the international studies minor."\nAssociate Professor of History Jeffrey Wasserstrom echoed O'Meara's sentiments. \n"We must encourage students to become critically engaged in the global community," he said. "They should not just accept the increasing trend of globalization; this major would provide them with a renewed relevance to this trend's history."\nThe status of the major as multidisciplinary, rather than department-exclusive, was touted in nearly every panelist's assessment of the program. Rudy Professor of French and Italian Rosemary Lloyd compared the proposed program to similar well-established curricula at Northwestern, Middlebury and Georgetown universities, which she said should provide an "interdisciplinary, diverse education fostering creative thinking."\nDenouncing the "grab-bag" approach, in which curriculum would be overly broad and ambiguous, the program would be designed to integrate aspects from many departments, yet with definite focus, O'Meara said.\n"We need to build on a deep immersion in one discipline, such as language or culture, and combine that foundation with required courses in a second field," Wasserstrom said. He added such an approach would encourage examination of international interactions by providing contrasting viewpoints.\n"This major also has a practical angle," said Associate Dean for Graduate Education and Faculty Development Michael McGerr, who moderated the talk. "As freshmen, it's often difficult for a student to see all of his or her options. This is a broad-based program that's ideal for those students with international interests unsure of what next step to pursue."\nBut those on the panel said the technical difficulties associated with such a program are numerous. They said because of the multidisciplinary nature of the proposed program, the major must not foster exclusivity and center around one single department. They said challenges lie in determining applicability to graduate school and in creating a work experience or overseas study to complement the major's practical requirements.\n"This major will prepare a student for all sorts of careers and professional schools," McGerr said. "Our mission is to prepare students to succeed; it's clear that a liberal arts foundation is a practical education that equips students with the skills needed to do just that. This major addresses a real need, centered around a flexible approach to world affairs"
(11/13/00 4:03am)
Therapist and consultant Miriam Acevedo-Davis addressed about 20 women Thursday night at the Mathers Museum, touting the importance of education in overcoming cultural boundaries.\nAcevedo-Davis emphasized the significance of career choices unencumbered by stereotypes and cultural bias in her talk "Minority Women in the Workforce." It was sponsored by sorority Sigma Lambda Gamma, the Latino Cultural Center and the Mathers Museum.\nA Puerto-Rican born native of New York, Acevedo-Davis received an MA in Education from Harvard and an MA in Marriage and Family Services from Butler University.\n"We really wanted to gear this program toward women, especially freshmen and sophomores, who were unsure of what opportunities are out there," said Sigma Lambda Gamma president senior Jessica Castellanos. "Ms. Acevedo-Davis was the perfect choice to motivate these girls; she's an example of a successful Latino woman."\nAcevedo-Davis spoke candidly, often referring to her Brooklyn, N.Y., upbringing. Raised by parents with relatively low levels of education, she said a zeal for learning was instilled in her by her mother.\n Acevedo-Davis said she was selected to participate in the local Upward Bound program, which encourages minority students to pursue collegiate dreams. She said she realized "there was a world outside my neighborhood. But we didn't talk about career development. There were role models within our communities -- teacher, nurse, postman -- but there were definite limits to what society thought we could become."\nOften in Latino society, Acevedo-Davis said, successful Latinos are obligated to "give back" to their communities. She said those who "made it" were often perceived as "less Latin." She concluded that this exemplifies the limits the culture imposed on its people.\n"A lot of the time, Hispanics are hard on each other," she said. "Who decides if you're 'not Puerto Rican enough' or 'not Latino enough?' Is it a measure of who you are? Of how lucky you are?"\nAcevedo-Davis stressed the importance of mentoring young Latina women.\n"Young women need to know about the bigger things in life," Acevedo-Davis said. "They need to know that it's possible for them to do whatever they want to do, to be whatever they dream of being. There's nothing worse than hating what you do; young girls should be encouraged to do what gives them joy."\nAcevedo-Davis said she trains foster care caseworkers, encouraging them to look beyond ethnicities as monolithic groups and perceive them as cultural groups, separate of race. Citing her own major career change from government consulting to counseling, she said women aren't necessarily "locked in" to one job.\n"It was really interesting to observe the role education played in her life," said Sigma Lambda Gamma associate member and senior Adriana Perez. "Regardless of her parents' educational backgrounds. It really shows cycles don't repeat"
(11/09/00 5:00am)
A few Saturdays ago, a friend asked me to go to some fraternity party with her, but I said no. Later that night I drove right on by Kilroy's Sports Bar, just as a line of preppy-cute guys was starting to form. And I didn't even look in the direction of Kilroy's on Kirkwood or Nick's, places I sometimes frequent on 'not much else to do so might as well down a few' Saturday nights.\nWhat I did do was hit three local bars; places you've probably heard of, but maybe never gave much thought to. And I discovered that there's a lot more to Bloomington nightlife than the usual drunken suspects.\nLegends Bar & Grill\n3000 S. Old State Road 37\nLegends is unique.\nSpend just a few minutes inside this Bloomington dance club and one of the first things you'll notice is the unusually diverse crowd.\nTwentysomething girls wearing tight Capri pants and bright halter tops dance alongside (and sometimes with) middle-aged men wearing cowboy boots. Khaki-clad college students mix it up with biker dudes.\n"We definitely get an interesting mix of people in here," says Tony Jeffries, Legends' general manager. \nThe music is equally eclectic. In an hour you might hear everything from country to hip-hop to classic rock.\n"We try to play songs that everyone is familiar with," says Jeffries. "Our main goal is to keep people on the dance floor. If we keep things fun and exciting and we keep people dancing, then we've done our job."\nIf you're looking for a bar where you can party with both frat boys and cowboys, Legends is the place. But beware of the super-stringent alcohol policy. As soon as you walk through the door, your ID is carefully checked and you're issued a plastic wristband. Show obvious signs of intoxication, you'll be asked to remove the bracelet -- thereby revoking your drinking privileges -- and it's bye-bye rum and Cokes, hello Shirley Temples, for the rest of the evening.\nThe Pit Stop\n424 S. Walnut St.\n"Pit Stop is one of the last neighborhood bars in Bloomington," says bartender Tim White. "People come here to have a good time and everyone gets along."\nThough most of the Pit Stop's customers have traditionally been locals, in recent years this has begun to change.\n"We're starting to see more and more IU students," says White. \nThe Pit Stop seems to want to encourage this trend.\n"Students are very welcome here," White says, "And we have a lot to offer them. Once a week we have a band. We've added some more pool tables, and on Friday and Saturday nights we have karaoke."\nWhite admits that the Pit Stop isn't your typical college bar. \n"The prices here are very reasonable," he explains. "You don't have to worry about fighting for a pool table or a place to sit."\nIf you're looking for a hot pick-up spot, then this probably isn't the place for you. But if you're looking for a fun place to kick back and relax with a few good friends and a couple of brews, then the Pit Stop is a nice alternative.\nThe Office Lounge\n3900 E. Third St.\nFor rabid karaoke fans, there's no better place than the Office Lounge. It's offered here four nights a week -- Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 9 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. and Sundays from 9 p.m. to midnight -- more nights a week than nearly any other place in town. \nPerhaps almost as well-known as the karaoke itself is the Office Lounge's most famous regular, Ron. He's an older gent who regularly amuses Office Lounge patrons with his deadpan rendition of Marvin Gaye's "Sexual Healing."\n"A lot of people come in just to hear Ron sing," says Shelley Duck, a bartender who has worked at the Office Lounge for the past two years.\nBut rest assured, you don't have to have any special talent to join in the karaoke-festivities. Would-be crooners simply choose a song from the hundreds listed in the selection book and wait for their turn.\nBut for those who feel that sing-alongs are best reserved for campfires and long car rides, there's more to the Office Lounge than karaoke. They mix a pretty mean cocktail, too. \nIf you're feeling adventurous, order a Go-Go Juice. This wild concoction, a potent combination of vodka, gin, rum, tequila, Blue Caracao, Sprite, orange juice and sour mix, is the color of Berry Blue Kool-aid and is served in an enormous margarita glass that the bartenders refer to as "the fishbowl."\nAside from the kooky drinks and karaoke, much of the Office Lounge's charm comes from its total lack of pretense. The beer comes served in a can, and the friendly waitresses actually seem to care if you are having a good time.\nSo do yourself a favor. The next time you find yourself facing a similar array of not-too-exciting Saturday night options, try one of these places.
(11/09/00 3:12am)
A few Saturdays ago, a friend asked me to go to some fraternity party with her, but I said no. Later that night I drove right on by Kilroy's Sports Bar, just as a line of preppy-cute guys was starting to form. And I didn't even look in the direction of Kilroy's on Kirkwood or Nick's, places I sometimes frequent on 'not much else to do so might as well down a few' Saturday nights.\nWhat I did do was hit three local bars; places you've probably heard of, but maybe never gave much thought to. And I discovered that there's a lot more to Bloomington nightlife than the usual drunken suspects.\nLegends Bar & Grill\n3000 S. Old State Road 37\nLegends is unique.\nSpend just a few minutes inside this Bloomington dance club and one of the first things you'll notice is the unusually diverse crowd.\nTwentysomething girls wearing tight Capri pants and bright halter tops dance alongside (and sometimes with) middle-aged men wearing cowboy boots. Khaki-clad college students mix it up with biker dudes.\n"We definitely get an interesting mix of people in here," says Tony Jeffries, Legends' general manager. \nThe music is equally eclectic. In an hour you might hear everything from country to hip-hop to classic rock.\n"We try to play songs that everyone is familiar with," says Jeffries. "Our main goal is to keep people on the dance floor. If we keep things fun and exciting and we keep people dancing, then we've done our job."\nIf you're looking for a bar where you can party with both frat boys and cowboys, Legends is the place. But beware of the super-stringent alcohol policy. As soon as you walk through the door, your ID is carefully checked and you're issued a plastic wristband. Show obvious signs of intoxication, you'll be asked to remove the bracelet -- thereby revoking your drinking privileges -- and it's bye-bye rum and Cokes, hello Shirley Temples, for the rest of the evening.\nThe Pit Stop\n424 S. Walnut St.\n"Pit Stop is one of the last neighborhood bars in Bloomington," says bartender Tim White. "People come here to have a good time and everyone gets along."\nThough most of the Pit Stop's customers have traditionally been locals, in recent years this has begun to change.\n"We're starting to see more and more IU students," says White. \nThe Pit Stop seems to want to encourage this trend.\n"Students are very welcome here," White says, "And we have a lot to offer them. Once a week we have a band. We've added some more pool tables, and on Friday and Saturday nights we have karaoke."\nWhite admits that the Pit Stop isn't your typical college bar. \n"The prices here are very reasonable," he explains. "You don't have to worry about fighting for a pool table or a place to sit."\nIf you're looking for a hot pick-up spot, then this probably isn't the place for you. But if you're looking for a fun place to kick back and relax with a few good friends and a couple of brews, then the Pit Stop is a nice alternative.\nThe Office Lounge\n3900 E. Third St.\nFor rabid karaoke fans, there's no better place than the Office Lounge. It's offered here four nights a week -- Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 9 p.m. to 2:30 a.m. and Sundays from 9 p.m. to midnight -- more nights a week than nearly any other place in town. \nPerhaps almost as well-known as the karaoke itself is the Office Lounge's most famous regular, Ron. He's an older gent who regularly amuses Office Lounge patrons with his deadpan rendition of Marvin Gaye's "Sexual Healing."\n"A lot of people come in just to hear Ron sing," says Shelley Duck, a bartender who has worked at the Office Lounge for the past two years.\nBut rest assured, you don't have to have any special talent to join in the karaoke-festivities. Would-be crooners simply choose a song from the hundreds listed in the selection book and wait for their turn.\nBut for those who feel that sing-alongs are best reserved for campfires and long car rides, there's more to the Office Lounge than karaoke. They mix a pretty mean cocktail, too. \nIf you're feeling adventurous, order a Go-Go Juice. This wild concoction, a potent combination of vodka, gin, rum, tequila, Blue Caracao, Sprite, orange juice and sour mix, is the color of Berry Blue Kool-aid and is served in an enormous margarita glass that the bartenders refer to as "the fishbowl."\nAside from the kooky drinks and karaoke, much of the Office Lounge's charm comes from its total lack of pretense. The beer comes served in a can, and the friendly waitresses actually seem to care if you are having a good time.\nSo do yourself a favor. The next time you find yourself facing a similar array of not-too-exciting Saturday night options, try one of these places.
(10/27/00 5:38am)
The standing-room only crowd filling the Law School's Moot Court Room last night was both insistent and impatient. As students and faculty packed the small auditorium, whispers of anticipation hummed through the air. But as Kumble R. Subbaswamy, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, stepped up to the podium, the dull hum of conversation immediately ceased.\nSubbaswamy welcomed the crowd and introduced French ambassador Francois Bujon de l'Estang to the crowd to give his address, "The State of the European Union and the Priorities of the French Presidency." \nAs he spoke, de l'Estang began outlining the difficulties facing France as the country struggles to leave its legacy on the European Union presidency, a position France will hold until the end of this calendar year.\nHe said the first challenge involves the rapid enlargement of the European Union. As the membership in the Union becomes increasingly seductive, promising single, stable markets and increased exports, more and more developing democracies have begun to seek inclusion, he said. He also said chief among these countries are former members of the Soviet Eastern bloc, lured by the presence of the Eastern Union's Common Market and peacekeeping efforts.\nDe l\'Estang stressed the crucial goal of "integrating in a larger dimension." That is, providing economic security and satisfaction to both corporate enterprises and the private citizenry. Touting the EU's common currency, the euro, as "revolutionary," the ambassador emphasized the growth possibilities emanating from such standardization. \nWhile the value of the euro in American dollars has slipped substantially since its inception, de l'Estang dismissed the circumstances as the product of disparity between French and American economics.\n"(The incident) is not necessarily a bad thing, as it helps French exports and reflects the good health of the American economy," the ambassador said. Denouncing the decline as "an irrational phenomena not reflective of actual economic circumstances," de l'Estang promoted the global need to allow for gradual maturation of the currency system.\nThe diplomat also addressed the establishment of a real European defense as an immediate EU aim. Only through the mobilization of an effective military force can institutional reform of the Union occur, he said. The EU must then, in turn, establish a concrete foreign policy "able to project reaction forces on a crisis theatre."\nFollowing the hour-long lecture was a presentation of France's highest-ranking academic award, the Commandeur dans l'Ordre des Palmes Academiques, by de l'Estang to Rudy Professor of French and Linguistics Albert Valdman. Valdman was honored with this distinction following 40 years of research and study of French dialects in America, including Pidgin and Creole.\nValdman received the award to a standing ovation, with faculty members filling the first few rows. "Dr. Valdman is one of the most inspirational and compassionate people on the faculty," French department head AI Tammy Berberri said. "It is such an honor working with him." \nGraduate student Margaret Dempster concurred, adding that Valdman is "very passionate" about his work and well-deserving of such distinction.\nThe program was well-received by students and faculty. \n"I think it is important to notice that the visit of the French Ambassador to Bloomington comes at a crucial moment when France and the United States are committed to strengthen their cultural and scientific ties by concrete measures and exchange programs," Associate Professor of French and Italian Jacques Merceron said. "In that respect, person-to-person contacts are invaluable and irreplaceable. Although I realize that there can't be an immediate effect between such a visit and such programs … I really hope that the increased visibility of the French cultural and scientific presence in the U.S. will in the long run benefit us in a broad sense"
(10/26/00 3:09am)
Appearing under the benefaction of the Departments of French, Italian and West European Studies, French ambassador Bujon de l'Estang will deliver a lecture detailing issues facing the French presidency and its role in the transitional European Union tonight. The lecture, entitled "The State of the European Union and the Priorities of the French Presidency," begins at 5 p.m. in the Moot Court Room of the Law School.\nAccording to the Department of Western European Studies, Bujon de l'Estang, first appointed to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1966 after completing graduate work in business at Harvard, has devoted his career to civil service and atomic energy research. He began his tenure with the French government as special adviser to the staff of President Charles de Gaulle, after which he accepted the appointment of senior adviser for diplomatic affairs under Jacques Chirac, a post he held until 1988. In 1995, he began his term as French diplomat to the U.S. He has additionally served as president and CEO of COGEMA's U.S. Operations.\nChief among the concepts the ambassador will address is the current transitional state of the European Union under French leadership. As negotiations concerning the fate of the ever-expanding Union ensue, France must play a pivotal role in ensuring a smooth transition in modernizing political institutions and establishing the economically fundamental common currency, said Amanda Ciccarelli of the West European Studies Department. The ambassador is expected to address these issues while providing personal insights into the future of the EU.\nFollowing his remarks, de l'Estang will give the Commandeur dans l'Ordre des Palmes Academiques, France's highest-ranking academic award, to Albert Valdman, Rudy Professor of French, Italian and Linguistics.\nThe award, created in 1808 by Napoleon Bonaparte as recognition of fine scholarship, research and teaching endeavors, will be given to Valdman. Valdman will then hold the highest rank in the order, that of Commandeur, according to a press release.\nHolding degrees from the University of Pennsylvania and Cornell University, Valdman, a native of Paris, has served as chair of the Department of Linguistics and also established IU's Creole Institute. He currently serves as chair of the Committee for Research and Development in Language Instruction and director of the Beginning French Program, as well as editor of the self-founded Studies in Second Language Acquisition.\nValdman said the lecture marks the first occasion of its kind in 30 years or more. His enthusiasm was echoed throughout the sponsoring departments. \n"It's a really big deal to have the French ambassador present on campus, and we're really encouraging all faculty and students to attend this event," said French department visiting lecturer Daria Roche.
(10/23/00 6:28am)
An audience of about 100 people came together at 1:30 p.m. Friday to celebrate the rededication of the IU Foundation's home, Showalter House and sat captivated by the clear soprano melody filling the air.\nAs IU alumnus Cynthia Watters breathed life to composer Leonard Bernstein's "Dream with Me," the audience paid homage to the many dreams realized in the name of IU's philanthropic endeavors.\nThe dedication ceremony marked the culmination of several years of careful design and construction by Bloomington architect William A. Browne and Worster Construction. Originally built in 1974 to honor 23 years of service by Grace Montgomery Showalter, the foundation's first woman to sit on its board of directors, Showalter House has since expanded to almost double its original size, according to a press release.\nThe release said that private giving to the Foundation exceeds $100 million a year and that it receives money from more than 100,000 donors.\nWith IU President Myles Brand presiding, ceremonies began with an invocation by IU Student Foundation vice president and senior Gayle Wolski. Formal remarks by Brand followed, in which the IU Foundation was touted as the "bedrock of Hoosier values" upon which IU's legacy of excellence rests.\nBrand then detailed IU's long history of private giving, beginning in 1829 with its first President Andrew Wylie's appeal for books to increase the fledgling Main Library's collection. Former Chancellor Herman B Wells was also cited, as was Bryan's call to continue the "glorious fight for the cause forever." This appeal was indeed realized by the Foundation's close partnership with the University in ensuring continued support for professorships and endowed chairs. Because of this continued commitment to philanthropic excellence, Brand said we may "look to the future with great confidence."\nBrand then introduced Foundation president Curtis Simic who, for the past 12 years, has "reaffirmed the partnership" between IU Foundation and the University. Citing the staff of the Foundation as "dedicated, loyal and effective fund-raisers," Simic referred to the incredible success of the foundation's income matching program, which swept the University's philanthropic success status from near the bottom of Big Ten schools to its present position.\nAfter Simic's remarks was a special presentation by Alan Gilman, vice chairman of the IU Foundation board of directors. Announcing "A building comes alive only because of the people who inhabit it," Gilman extended personal recognition to the foundation's staff, presenting a plaque on behalf of the board of directors to be displayed in the new building. Gilman also accepted the honorary key to the building on the board's behalf from William A. Browne, president of Ratio Architects.\nBrowne said the new building "reflects the importance and stature sympathetic of university architecture." Studying such architecturally eminent institutions as the University of Wisconsin and the University of Illinois, Browne said the design team sought to exceed the benchmark of excellence established by those fixtures. Keeping the original landscape intact, Browne said the new extension features a curving center court representing the arms of the Foundation, "embracing the alumni." The arch and entryway lead to a reception hall providing views to the rear terrace; offices extend on either side.\nSimic said local materials were also used in construction to ensure the architectural consistency across campus.\n"The use of local limestone and the look of the building are designed to bring it into harmony with the architecture of the campus," Simic said. "The additional space enables us to bring most of our Bloomington staff back together, which makes us more efficient and effective in our operations"
(10/23/00 5:04am)
This weekend, members of historically black and Latino organizations past and present converged on campus to celebrate their groups' contributions to IU's institutions in the annual "Old School Reunion." \nSpearheaded by St. John's University Area Coordinator for Judicial Affairs Ruben Flores and attorney Patrice Russell, the reunion spanned the weekend, beginning Friday with participation in the Homecoming parade and culminating Sunday with a brunch.\n"The purpose of the reunion is to provide an opportunity for alumni to gather on the Bloomington campus in the spirit of renewing old friendships and our very special ties to Indiana University," Flores said.\nWorking in close collaboration with such historically diverse organizations as the Latino Unidos of IU, the Black Student Union, Diversity Advocates and numerous fraternities and sororities, the reunion committee continues to maintain close ties with IU cultural groups, Flores said. An e-mail list of more than 300 alumni allows this close relationship to continue, Flores said.\nAfter the parade at 7 p.m. Friday, reunion participants were invited to a "Meet and Greet" at Kilroy's Sports Bar on Walnut Street. A concert by the IU Soul Revue, directed by Tyron Cooper, commenced afterward in Alumni Hall of the Indiana Memorial Union.\nSaturday's events began at 7:30 a.m. with an Alumni Breakfast at the Kelley School of Business, followed by a Black Faculty and Staff Homecoming Tailgate Picnic on 17th Street. Organized by IU faculty members David Hummons and Clarence Boone, the tailgate party served as a way to enjoy the friendship of fellow alumni, Hummons said. \n "I wasn't aware this sort of thing existed on campus," said freshman tailgater Jermaine Miles. "It's a great opportunity to meet alums and learn about these groups' histories."\n Saturday's chief event was the Old School Renunion Convocation, commencing at 12:30 p.m. in Whittenberger Auditorium in the Union. The event began with a devotion led by guest speaker Sonya Roberts, followed by the presentation of a reunion video. Contemporary gospel groups under the auspices of the African American Choral Ensemble, led by James Mumford of the African American Arts Institute, also performed.\nLeukemia Foundation representatives also addressed the crowd, offering memorial tributes for deceased members of historically African-American sororities and fraternities. A social in Dunn Meadow and celebration at the Bloomington Convention Center rounded out the evening's activities.
(10/20/00 5:58am)
This is part four of a four-part series profiling student spirit organization preparing for Homecoming.\n
(10/16/00 4:04am)
More than 150 students and faculty gathered Friday evening at the International Center to celebrate African Unity Night. The free event, sponsored by the African Languages Program, included skits, poetry reading and African pop music by local group AfroHoosier International. \nSamuel Obeng, African languages coordinator and associate professor of linguistics, pioneered the program -- the first of its kind promoting African studies -- in hopes of generating interest in the department. While the International Center sponsors many cultural gatherings throughout the year, Friday's event was the first to feature African culture. \nThe program opened with a brief introduction by Obeng. Skits performed in the East African language Swahili and Twi, a tongue native to the Ivory Coast, followed. The first skit concentrated primarily on the need to concentrate on education -- evading the tendency to relax and guarding against idleness. The latter was excerpted from Obeng's book, "Rumor Mongering," and warned against the evils of excessive litigation. \nAdditional performances were delivered in Hausa and Xhosa, west and south African languages, respectively. The Hausa skit centered on the notion of self-reliance and the need to work hard, while the Xhosa poem praised politics and power.\nAfroHoosier International interspersed performances with the sounds of contemporary African pop. Mike Gasser, associate professor of linguistics and computer science, said the group has expanded substantially since its inception two years ago.\nInitially composed of three IU faculty members, the group has since grown to nine. AfroHoosier International performs regularly throughout Bloomington in restaurants, weddings and community gatherings.\nSophomore David Mattick attended the program as an extension of his Swahili course. He said he views the program as helpful to his understanding of African culture, enabling one to "assess differences in African and American civilizations."\nObeng said he was "pleasantly surprised" at Friday's turnout, which included Director of African Studies Professor John Hanson and visiting faculty from Africa and Korea. Currently about 110 IU students are enrolled in an African Studies course. Friday's program served as a hopeful precursor to increased African cultural events in the future, as well as a tool with which to attract interested students, Obeng said.\n"We are grateful to the African Student Association and the African-American Association for contributing to the success of this event," Obeng said.
