The Cage
By Lydia Simon
It’s no secret that I am an avid Cage supporter. Whether I need a snack, a refreshing drink, or just a little treat after a long day, The Cage is my go-to spot. My usual order is a lemonade with blackberry syrup, a perfectly tart and sweet choice for the warm weather that is fast approaching; however, I am also interested in experimenting with the multitude of flavorings that are offered. This is just one example of what makes The Cage so great, and I have plenty more to tell you.
For one, you can use both your Flex and Ole dollars at The Cage, whereas at The Pause, you can only use Ole dollars. I personally don’t put Ole dollars on my student card, so I have to spend my own personal money whenever I go to the Pause, which is annoying and inconvenient. Additionally, The Pause’s location on the bottom floor of Buntrock makes it less of a space to congregate, and adds a flight of stairs for a slice of pizza that you can get for free in Stav. No, thank you.
I want to raise an important question for this debate: How often do you really need ice cream in a week? I personally favor The Cage’s froyo over the Pause’s ice cream any day. Now think about how often you need some caffeine, a muffin, a breakfast sandwich, or any other grab-and-go item as you’re on your way to class. The Cage is way more convenient for everyday needs than the Pause, both due to its extensive café-style menu, as well as its environment — the center of Buntrock Commons, with dozens of seating options surrounding it. It is not only a place to eat, but to read, do work, hang out with friends, and appreciate the hustle and bustle of Oles.
As you can see, The Cage makes a strong argument for itself. While the Pause may be a necessary refuel stop during a long night, The Cage provides a dependable, community-focused dining experience that gives Oles more than just food: a place where they belong.
Let’s Pause for a moment
By Ashlyn Wuench
The Pause is a hidden gem on campus.
Walking into the wing feels like entering a different portal to campus life. There are pool tables and couches to lounge in to the right. The Jungle offers further seating and a small stage for occasional performances. This is all before arriving at the Pause itself.
There are nearly always clusters of friends awaiting a Pause pizza to share together. Music flows through the air, filling the spaces between conversations with students, both Pause staff and those looking for a late-night snack.
Some of the cheapest dining options on campus can be found at the Pause. Quesadillas, pizzas, and cookies can be found on the menu. There are varying ice cream flavors of the month, and employees are more than happy to experiment with different options, such as the new additions this semester of the pickle pizza and cinnamon bites.
Here, you can catch up with a friend over some ice cream, you can share a Jarritos float with your roommates, or you can pick up a large pizza to indulge after a night out.
The vibe is not all the Pause has to offer. It is a student-run small business with a student-centered audience in mind for affordable dining options. In 2024, the student body, both past and present classes, came together to stand for The Pause’s continuation as a 100% student-run business, without influence by Bon Appétit (Bon App), the dining provider on campus. The Pause is the only food source — outside of the Campus Bookstore — that is not overseen by Bon App.
The campus coming together in spring 2024 with the “Save the Pause” petition displayed the immense support behind the Pause. Around 400 students arrived at the public forum on short notice to discuss why the Pause must remain in the hands of students, and not Bon App.
Since then, the Pause has remained safe from corporate hands and has been held under the care of student managers and employees.
If I didn’t graduate in two months, I’d probably work there. The energy exuding from the space invites everyone to come get an ice cream cookie. From one student-led organization to another, I will always stand with the Pause.
