I’d like to take this time to thank the ISU Student Body for its comments, questions and concerns regarding the Cyclone Cinema proposal. They haven’t gone unnoticed.

I apologize for not responding to each of the e-mails individually, but my inbox has been absolutely flooded with feedback, both positive and negative.

As one of the people who put together this proposal, I’d like to thank Corey Becker, Allison Machtemes, Jason Covey and countless others who have voiced their opinions on the issue. I would also like to remind them that this project is not over.

The money for the cinema was set aside for the project, but would all come back to the Government of the Student Body if the vote does not pass concerning the lease and other property costs, so continue to provide feedback, because you still have the chance to make a difference.

The same goes for those students in favor of the project. One of the by-products of this project has been a drastic increase in student involvement in the GSB process.

This has been my vision for the GSB and student body relationship since I joined GSB four years ago.

Whether you are in favor of or opposed to the Cyclone Cinema’s inception, we can all agree that this has become one of the most talked about endeavors that GSB has undertaken.

I’ve heard this project talked about by students at the Memorial Union Food Court, student organizations and even at establishments in Campustown. Maybe it’s the dollar amount, maybe it’s the venue itself, and maybe it’s the potential successes or failures of the proposal. Whatever it is, people are talking.

GSB should always be looking at ways to better student life at Iowa State. Many ideas have been spoken of as substitutions and additions to the project, which hasn’t occurred in the previous three years.

GSB needs this feedback on everything it does, don’t wait for a “sticker shock” bill to contact your senators or your president. You elect these people to represent you, so give them an idea of how to do that.

Students have taken a huge risk in proposing this cinematic adventure in the hopes that it would enhance the student experience at Iowa State, and believe that the enhancement is worth the attached dollar figure. While you may agree or disagree with that assertion, there has been one strong underlying theme. Student involvement is key in the process. It’s a lot to expect of 35 senators to reach 27,000 students, so go to them, let them know that you have a voice too.

It’s election season for the new and returning crop of GSB members. Let’s ride this wave of GSB and student body interaction and start a new trend at this fine institution.

Vote on March 1 and 2 in the GSB elections, ask questions of the candidates before the vote, and most importantly, don’t let them forget about you once they are elected. Fill out the survey regarding the theater project that you will receive in an e-mail from your GSB president. None of the GSB projects hold water at the administrative or Regents level without student feedback one way or the other.

The best idea may come along and never see the light of day if the students don’t voice their opinions. Hold your student leaders accountable because they’re holding you accountable as well.

Tom Danielson is a senior in civil engineering and GSB finance director.