The Lumberjack -- October 17, 2019 by The Lumberjack

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THE LUMBER JACK

OCT. 17, 2019 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; OCT. 23, 2019

Online at JackCentral.org

From the Editor “For the Love of Scabs” Soft pink skin new \ And bright next to the rest Of what hugs my figure \ New and bright, A fresh ghost of a bloody stretch \ Where scab and concrete Would kiss until their lips \ Were raw harmonies of gravel and blood And lust is what drives my knee \ Back like a sledgehammer on impact, For the sidewalk to unbutton \ My halfway crusted self And tear the clothes for my bones \ Then toss them on its bedroom floor So I could treasure the love marks \ It leaves on my knees Scars, cuts, bruises, bumps, scabs \ Trophies of undying affection For unintentional self-inflicted \ Wound infection and for feeling Wheels under my weight \ They told me to fall in love with falling When I started to skate. In my freshman year, my best friend and I headed to Big 5 Sporting Goods and spontaneously bought cheap roller skates. Little did I know that decision ASH would so drastically change my life. I never had wheels under my feet before that LOHMANN point, and it showed. I fell so much my friends started calling me ‘Gnarly Knees,’ ASST. FEATURES and I couldn’t even skate straight. EDITOR Regardless, something about roller skating ignited a passion within me that prompted an intense desire to get as good as the skaters I followed on Instagram, the awesome roller skaters who could hit like monsters on the roller derby track, shred up bowls at skate parks and still be elegantly, effortlessly cool roller dancers. Now, I’ve been roller skating and filming my progress daily for almost 340 days. I never thought I would see so much improvement in my skill level so quickly. I still fall and stumble all the time, but that’s part of learning. I learned to not be so afraid of falling because of its inevitability. When I fall and get right back up to keep working on a new trick, I feel like just as much of a badass as I do when I land that trick for the first time. Where I am today really goes to show how making a commitment to working on something can help you accomplish more than you thought you could initially, despite challenges along the way. As the second half of the semester commences, burnout becomes no stranger to college students. If you’re anything like me, you’ve plagued yourself with too many challenging classes this semester, on top of looming stressors provided by social and extracurricular obligations. While things might seem to be getting too difficult, I urge you to keep pushing for what you want to achieve. Understand that failure is just a jumping-off point for improvement, and even if it’s doing just a little every day, you’ll find yourself so much closer to where you want to be by challenging yourself to actually work for it. Thank you for reading.

THE LUMBERJACK VOL. 108 ISSUE 9

Editor-in-Chief Bailey Helton Faculty Adviser David Harpster

Managing Editor Sebastian Moore Sports Adviser Rory Faust

Director of Digital Content Brady Wheeler

Sales Manager Marsha Simon

Phone: (928) 523-4921 Fax: (928) 523-9313 Lumberjack@nau.edu P.O. Box 6000 Flagstaff, AZ 86011

Copy Chief Collin W. Clayton

Faculty Adviser, Visuals Taylor Mahoney Valerie Devoy

News Editor Scout Ehrler

Features Editor Shaelene Walker

Sports Editor Molly Smith

Asst. Dir. of Illustration Aleah Green

Asst. News Editor Trevor Skeen

Asst. Features Editor Ash Lohmann

Asst. Sports Editor Jacob Terrill

Director of Photography Morgan Fisher

Online News Editor Ray Anne Galzote

Culture Editor Sabrina Proffitt

Director of Circulation Robyn Monroe

Asst. Dir. of Photography Bess Valdez

Asst. Dir. of Circulation Anel Lamadrid

Senior Photographer Shannon Swain

Director of Illustration Madison Cohen

Director of Multimedia Shawn Patti

Op-Ed Editor Caitlin Burke

Asst. Culture Editor Nathan Manni Asst. Op-Ed Editor D’Anna Davis

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Illustration By Aleah Green

On the cover Portrait of NAU women’s volleyball players Abby Akin, left, and Heaven Harris, right, at Rolle Activity Center Oct. 7, 2019. Michael Patacsil | The Lumberjack

Print Chief Bella Valenzuela

Media Innovation Center Editorial Board

Online News Editor Karin Johnson

The reason it [Latinx Heritage Month] starts on Sept. 15 is that there are five countries whose anniversary of independence is on the same day.

Corrections & Clarifications The Lumberjack is committed to factual correctness and accuracy. If you find an error in our publication, please email Bailey Helton at brs289@nau.edu.

PoliceBeat Oct. 7 At 2:43 p.m., a parent at The Suites called to report a CCC-to-NAU student who was missing. NAUPD responded and took a report. The student was entered into the National Crime Information Center as a missing person, and the investigation is ongoing. At 4:24 p.m., a nonstudent called to report their car was keyed at parking lot 66. NAUPD responded and took a report. At 7:24 p.m., a subject at the du Bois Center called to report a student with loss of feeling in their hands. Flagstaff Fire Department, Guardian Medical Transport and NAUPD responded. The patient refused medical transport. Oct. 8 At 1:05 a.m., staff at Wilson Hall reported the possible sale of narcotics. NAUPD issued a long-form complaint for possession of narcotics to a student, and another student was deferred for minor in possession. At 7:04 p.m., an RA at Gabaldon Hall called to report the odor of marijuana. NAUPD responded, and two students were criminally deferred for possession of drug paraphernalia. At 7:46 p.m., NAUPD reported assisting FPD with a domestic violence call off campus. Oct. 9 At 12:50 p.m., a student at the W. A. Franke College of Business called to report two individuals who were possibly under the influence of drugs while with a child. NAUPD, Flagstaff Fire Department and Guardian Medical Transport

Compiled by Karin Johnson

responded. One non-student Oct. 11 was transported to FMC, and At 11:28 a.m., a staff one non-student was arrested member called to report on an active warrant. burglary tools found at lot 62B. NAUPD responded, At 7:09 p.m., a student and it was found that a called NAUPD to report an vehicle had been broken into. unidentifiable stray animal in A report was taken. the area near the Social and Behavioral Sciences buildings. At 9:57 p.m., an RA The animal was located by at McConnell Hall called NAUPD, but it was unable to to report a possible odor be caught. of marijuana. NAUPD responded, and two students At 8:16 p.m., the Arizona were cited and released for Department of Public Safety underage consumption called to request assistance of alcohol. One student with a blood draw off campus. was cited and released for Assistance was provided by underage consumption of NAUPD. alcohol and possession of a fake ID. At 10:08 p.m., NAUPD initiated a traffic stop at Oct. 12 lot 5. One non-student in At 5:02 p.m., NAUPD the vehicle has pending received a call from a thirdcharges of possession of drug party alarm company paraphernalia. A warning was regarding an intrusion alarm issued for driving left of center at the Biological Sciences and two headlights required. Annex. The area was searched, and it was found that the Oct. 10 alarm was accidentally set off At 5:08 a.m., NAUPD by a staff member. reported hearing two stray dogs near the Hotel and Restaurant At 7:21 p.m., an Management building. The individual called to report a area was checked, but no dogs student attempting suicide at were found. McConnell Hall. The student was located by NAUPD At 5:38 a.m., a student and transported to FMC for reported two stray dogs voluntary committal. near the HLC. The area was searched, but no dogs were Oct. 13 found. At 12:36 a.m., Wilson Hall staff reported At 2:49 p.m., a staff an intoxicated student. member at Old Main called The student was arrested, to report a heavy odor in the medically cleared at FMC building. NAUPD responded, and booked for minor in and the odor was found to be consumption of alcohol and caused by cleaning products. refusal to provide a truthful name. At 10:05 p.m., staff at Wilson Hall reported receiving At 3:30 a.m., NAUPD a suspicious photo. NAUPD reported assisting the responded, and two students Burlington Northern Santa were deferred for possession of Fe Railroad Police and FPD drug paraphernalia. with a collision involving a fatality off campus.

OCTOBER 17, 2019 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; OCTOBER 23, 2019 | THE LUMBERJACK

NEWS

The Students for Sustainable Living and Urban Gardening (SSLUG) greenhouse stands beside the Raul H. Castro Social and Behavioral Sciences building, overlooking a colorful array of flowers Sept. 26. MacKenzie Brower | The Lumberjack

NAU community gardens look toward new projects tabetha friday

espite past struggles and uncertainties surrounding the community gardens, NAU campus garden organizers are working to promote new garden projects. There are three gardens on campus: the Shand garden, the Students for Sustainable Living and Urban Gardening (SSLUG) garden and the Students Nurturing Alternatives in Landscaping (SNAIL) garden. The Shand garden is primarily used in classes, while the SSLUG and SNAIL gardens are entirely student-led. This structure is partly due to various management changes. The SSLUG garden, which is located behind the Social and Behavioral Sciences West building, was the first to be established and has had multiple supervisors over the years, which is outlined in a previous article featured in The Lumberjack. The SSLUG garden’s founder, Ian Dixon McDonald, started garden management in 2008. Jan Busco managed the garden from 2014 to 2016, until the organic gardener position

was terminated due to a lack of funding. Senior Bridgette Brados has been the head organic gardener since 2018. Brados is also a member of the Living Laboratories and Learning Gardens (L3G) Committee. L3G Committee is a team of NAU Sustainable Communities (SUS) faculty and students. Rosemary Logan, SUS faculty and L3G Committee member, said the committee makes the gardens an integral part of the curriculum and is a living demonstration of ecological functions. The committee met Oct. 2 to discuss its Green Fund Proposal and to coordinate efforts across campus. This proposal is one of the committee’s most recent attempts to seek improvements and funding for the gardens. Additionally, it is designed to address the aesthetics and ecological integrity of

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the gardens. The committee’s meeting was organized by Logan and was attended by Brados, along with Dawn Hawley, geography planning and recreation faculty member; campus landscape architect Janel Wilcox; SUS student Abby Lundberg; SUS student Darren Bingham; and SUS student Heather White. Logan said everyone involved in the L3G committee shares interests and goals to protect the campus gardens and the learning opportunities they provide. White said her experience with growing her own food is why she is involved as a graduate assistant in the L3G Committee. She said it is a satisfying and valuable endeavor that deepens her connection to food cultivation and the outdoors.

“I think putting your hands in the soil is incredibly important to understanding the deeper aspects of reciprocity” – Heather White, SUS Student

“I think putting your hands in the soil is incredibly important to understanding the deeper aspects of reciprocity and placing ourselves back into an ecosystem that western society has removed us from,” White said. The L3G Committee aims to have its Green Fund Proposal accepted and receive funding for the gardens’ current needs. Past funding sources have included the environmental sciences program and the environmental caucus. While the Green Fund does not currently provide funding, the main goal of the recent proposal is to have the committee’s projects approved and funded for upcoming years. During the meeting, the major plans included in the proposal were discussed and explained. The projects for the three community gardens focus on improving their overall appearance and function, in addition to presenting cohesion and unity among them. The proposal also included increased garden seating, which would allow professors to conduct classes in an outdoor setting. Additionally, the proposal referenced the

NEWS implementation of multiple signs, kiosks and plant labels to provide more information on the gardens. It also discussed the installation of wheelchair pathways, which would be paired with raised beds to improve the gardens’ accessibility. Finally, the proposal included a rainwater harvesting and drip irrigation system to ensure energies are not wasted when watering plants. Other issues addressed in the discussion included the committee’s ongoing search for experienced gardeners to work on-site over the summer, which would provide more support when students are out of school. During the meeting, Logan also said they are pursuing funds to hire a new general assistant for a 5-hour weekly position, specifically to coordinate campus initiatives for the SSLUG garden. Brados said it may be beneficial to seek out a master gardener for the SSLUG garden. As the SSLUG head organic gardener, she added that this was the first year the student volunteers did not have a summer mentor for the sustainable living garden. The garden is all organic, covers roughly 3,000 square feet, is home to abundant wildlife — including over 200 plant species — and has its own studentbuilt greenhouse. A master gardener position could prove useful in improving the garden’s organization and structure in the future. Some improvements are already in action, such as efforts by White and Brados to increase the number of volunteers for the gardens. White, a first-year SUS grad student, is working on updating information on the school’s website to include volunteer hours, email lists and locations to help interested persons find this information easily. Oftentimes, the number of volunteers varies due to the academic season being misaligned with the growing season. The growing season is during the summer when most students and volunteers are on summer leave, which regularly means there are not enough people to help during the cultivation process. Brados said the SSLUG garden has approximately five to eight dedicated volunteers, but this year, it has accumulated a few more. One of the student volunteers, freshman Kaylee Hodson, said volunteers can see the numerous possibilities once they get involved. In her case, after being introduced to the SSLUG garden in her first-year seminar class, she said she found a new love for gardening. “It wasn’t something that I thought I’d want to spend my time doing, but it’s something that I have a newfound passion for,” Hodson said. One way they unite the public is through the distribution of food, Brados said. The gardens utilize a hierarchy of distribution, in which small amounts of produce are first

given to the volunteers who helped cultivate it. Produce is also occasionally sold to markets, and the profit is allocated back into the gardens’ funding. Food is also given to Flagstaff residents through donations. In addition to the produce they provide, Brados added the gardens also present a learning opportunity for the community. For example, students from W. F. Killip Elementary School visited the gardens to learn about sustainability and were able to take home produce for themselves. Lundberg, a first-year SUS grad student, also shared her thoughts on the garden’s purpose and the lessons it teaches. “In my opinion, in a world where the upcoming student generation is increasingly interested in addressing climate change, it will be more and more competitive for universities to foster a visible and tangible connection to the environment on their campuses,” Lundberg said. This meeting allowed faculty, chairs and students to work together across departments and colleges to collaborate on topics that relate to campus gardens as well as promote change through current and future proposals.

Top: Supplies for the community garden are stored next to SBS West, Oct. 14, 2019. Bottom: Plants grow all around the SBS West sign as a part of the community garden at NAU, Oct. 14, 2019. Shannon Swain | The Lumberjack

OCTOBER 17, 2019 – OCTOBER 23, 2019 | THE LUMBERJACK

NEWS

US military action could lead to new findings in the death of Kayla Mueller Brady Wheeler

Kayla Mueller participates in a rally at NAU in 2009. Casey Myrick | The Lumberjack

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nited States military forces recently took custody of two Islamic State prisoners allegedly involved in the 2015 death of former NAU student and human rights activist Kayla Mueller according to The Washington Post. The decision follows a Turkish invasion in northeastern Syria that threatened the security of a battlefield prison, which housed Islamic State detainees. The Washington Post reported last week that Alexanda Kotey and El Shafee Elsheikh are the only two prisoners that have been taken into United States custody, according to military officials on Oct. 9. Both men were relocated by U.S. military forces to an undisclosed location in Iraq. “They are being held in military custody pursuant to the law of war. They have been moved out of Syria and are in a secure location,” a U.S. Defense Department official said Oct. 9 to The Washington Post. Officials added that they are monitoring the security of five dozen other prisoners. According to a recent Time report there are more than 10,000 ISIS detainees held by Kurdish forces, of which 2,500 are considered highly dangerous foreign fighters from Europe and elsewhere. The move follows Turkey’s government launching an offensive into northeastern Syria after President Donald Trump indicated that U.S forces would be withdrawing from the area. Guards were pulled from prisons run by Kurdish forces to deal with the Turkish invasion, according to The Washington Post. “We have a certain number of ISIS fighters that are particularly bad, and we wanted to make sure that nothing happened with them in respect to getting out,” President Trump said at The White House Oct. 9, referring to Islamic State terrorists Kotey and Elsheikh. “They are the worst of the worst!”

Trump later tweeted Oct. 10. Kotey and Elsheikh are two of four members of the Islamic State dubbed “the Beatles” by hostages, due to their English accents. The group is alleged to have kidnapped and murdered western hostages in Syria and are allegedly involved in the 2015 death of Mueller. Notably, “the Beatles” were also reported by The Washington Post to have been directly involved with the beheadings of journalists James Foley, Steven Sotloff and aid worker Peter Kassig in 2014. Mohammed Emwazi, identified by U.S. intelligence as the man who killed Foley, Sotloff, Kassig and other hostages, was killed in a drone strike in 2015. Following the broadcast beheading of the three U.S hostages, concerns arose about Mueller’s safety. Mueller was taken hostage with her boyfriend, Omar Alkhani, in August 2013 while the couple was leaving a Doctors Without Borders hospital in Aleppo, Syria. Two months later Alkhani was released. Mueller died two years later while being held hostage by the Islamic State, but the exact cause of her death was not confirmed. Mueller grew up in Prescott and graduated from Tri-City College Prep High School in 2007. Following high school, Mueller came to NAU to study political science, graduating in just five semesters. Mueller was deeply involved in human rights programs during her time in college, and was a member of NAU’s chapter of STAND, a student anti-genocide coalition, before becoming the organizations president. Post-graduation, Mueller continued pursuing activism in many facets, oftentimes abroad. In between her missions outside of the country, she volunteered at Northland Cares, an HIV/AIDS clinic in Prescott. Mueller’s parents joined parents of other hostages to publish a plea when Kotey and Elsheikh were

first taken into Kurdish custody in February 2018. The plea insisted that the men be tried in the U.S., or at least in a court of international justice. The Mueller’s told The Arizona Republic the prosecution may provide them closure and aid in locating and returning Mueller’s body to her family. The criminal prosecution for Kotey and Elsheikh is contingent on evidence being released by British authorities. Following the transfer of the men into U.S. custody, Attorney General William Barr asked President Trump to prioritize securing the detention center where they are being held, to which the president immediately agreed. When the news broke that men were taken into U.S. custody, Diane Foley, the mother of slain journalist James Foley, told The Associated Press she would like to see the prisoners prosecuted in the U.S. “We need some semblance of justice for the horrific execution and torture of the Americans,” Foley told The Associated Press. While Kotey and Elsheikh have yet to be prosecuted, charges related to Mueller’s captivity have already been issued. Umm Sayyaf, the wife of a senior leader for the Islamic State, Abu Sayyaf, was charged in federal court with holding Mueller hostage and contributing to the aid worker’s death. Kotey and Elsheikh were detained with the goal of an eventual trial within the U.S. said an anonymous senior official, according to The Washington Post.

New initiative seeks to legalize recreational marijuana jacob meyer

ollowing a close defeat in 2016, marijuana advocates introduced a new 2020 voter initiative to legalize recreational marijuana in the state of Arizona. Officially named the Smart and Safe Arizona Act, the measure — introduced by the Arizona Dispensaries Association, the Arizona branch of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML) and others — seeks to legalize and regulate the sale and use of recreational marijuana for adults 21 and older. The act allows individuals to possess up to 2.5 ounces of marijuana and cultivate up to six marijuana plants for personal use at any given time. It also creates a commercial permitting and registration process similar to that of the Arizona Medical Marijuana Act of 2010, which first allowed the legal sale and use of marijuana for medicinal purposes. The Smart and Safe Arizona Act designates how tax funds raised by the sale of marijuana will be distributed. Tax funds will be allocated on a percentage basis: 31.4% of funds will be granted to community colleges; 31.4% to police, sheriff and fire departments; 30% to the Arizona Highway User Revenue Fund for highway construction and improvement; 7% to the Justice Reinvestment Fund for substance use prevention and treatment, as well as crime prevention programs; And 0.2% to the Arizona Attorney General’s office for law enforcement purposes. In terms of restrictions, the initiative bans smoking marijuana in public areas and allows private property owners to ban it from their premises. The act also limits the amount of THC that can be present in marijuana products and bans any packaging or products that are similar to goods marketed toward children or “resemble the form of a human, animal, insect, fruit, toy or cartoon.” The initiative comes almost

Illustration By Christian Ayala

three years after Proposition 205, the Arizona Marijuana Legalization Initiative, fell 1.32% short of passing in the 2016 general election. Sophomore Leanne Brodie shared her thoughts on the Smart and Safe Arizona Act and its chances considering the failure of the 2016 initiative. “I support it,” Brodie said. “I’m really hoping so, especially because at the time [Prop 205] was being voted on, I wasn’t old enough to vote. Now, I’m hoping that people who wanted to vote in that are now old enough to vote and will hopefully participate in it.” Brodie possesses a medical marijuana card in Arizona and explained that the process of acquiring

one was relatively simple, but the high cost of medical cards makes them inaccessible for many people, or at least discourages them from trying. While the measure mostly focuses on the use of marijuana for recreational purposes, Brodie stressed that it could also improve accessibility for medicinal users. “I think that it would be easier for people to get it medically, especially if people are just curious … but they don’t want to spend $300 to get a medical card to find out if it’s going to help them or not,” Brodie said. Mikel Weisser, the executive director for Arizona NORML, a cannabis advocacy organization and one of the groups that introduced the initiative, discussed the Smart and

Safe Arizona Act. Weisser said legalization and regulation could make marijuana safer for users and eliminate the dangers of acquiring it illegally, undermining crime in the process. “We have health and safety standards that are being developed, so I have faith that the future of marijuana is going to be safer and higher quality,” Weisser said. “Legalizing is our best way to curtail the black market, to improve public health and safety, [and] to get funding that is otherwise going to the illegal economy.” The marijuana advocate expressed optimism over the initiative’s chances in 2020. Weisser said the Smart and Safe Arizona Act

is better than the Arizona Marijuana Legalization Initiative and that the electorate is more open to legalization now than it was in 2016. “I worked as a volunteer on the 2016 initiative. This one is far superior when it comes to consumer rights,” Weisser said. “The overall culture is to our favor.” While the Smart and Safe Arizona Act seeks to be decided directly by voters in the 2020 election, the state government could potentially pass marijuana legislation before that. Despite opposition to recreational marijuana in general, top Republican government officials in Arizona could support a legalization bill through the state legislature to set the terms themselves. According to the Arizona Capitol Times, Attorney General Mark Brnovich suggested in July that legislators address the issue of recreational marijuana before it gets to the ballot box. “Generally speaking, as a matter of public policy, the public policymakers — i.e., the Legislature — should step up and address issues so voters don’t have to do it via the initiative process,” Brnovich said. Arizona Governor, Doug Ducey, also suggested in the Arizona Capitol Times article that legislators examine the issue. “Of course I want to protect the will of the voters,” Ducey said in the Arizona Capitol Times article. “But I also think we have a legislative process for a reason, and that’s to adjust and improve policy when we can.” The Arizona Secretary of State’s office specifies that in order to make it on the 2020 general election ballot, the campaign for the Smart and Safe Arizona Act must receive 237,645 signatures by July 2, 2020. While no figures are currently available regarding how many signatures have been collected, the 2016 Arizona Marijuana Legalization Initiative reported receiving the required signatures almost three months ahead of the deadline.

OCTOBER 17, 2019 – OCTOBER 23, 2019 | THE LUMBERJACK

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OCTOBER 17, 2019 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; OCTOBER 23, 2019 | THE LUMBERJACK

OPINION-EDITORIAL

Where press and journalism collide ryan dixon

Homebody for life

or years I have been criticized for not being someone that goes out. I have been told I’m “lame,” “no fun” and “dumb.” Since my freshman year I have been ridiculed for being a homebody. My two roommates always made fun of me, because I preferred to be at home in bed by 8 p.m. It’s never really bothered me, if I’m being honest. The only reaction it has provoked is an eye roll and a giggle. That eye roll was for obvious reasons, while the giggle was because I knew they were going to come home in the early morning and have to wake up with a hangover from hell. So why don’t I go out? Well, I’m not much of a drinker. I don’t really like the BAILEY taste of alcohol, but I’m also not a fan of HELTON the buzz. I ultimately end up getting super EDITOR-IN-CHIEF tired and crave the feeling of being in my pajamas with no makeup on. The other reason is that I don’t have a need to go out. For years I have taken the approach of, “I’m not going to put myself in a vulnerable position.” I don’t want to be subject to drunk males, gossip, foolish acts or untrustworthy people. I have a hard time believing that if I go out with friends, there will be someone in our crowd looking out for me, which is totally OK. It’s not anyone’s job to babysit me, but the fact of the matter is that I don’t want to be babysat, and I don’t want to babysit my friends. There’s also this notion that when you go out it’s to meet new people, whether that be with the intention of forming a romantic relationship or a new friendship. I personally feel like I’m not going to meet my new BFF at the bar. I am a busy bee and my kind of people understand that. My perfect night on the town is having a meal, some drinks, good conversation and then being home by 8 p.m. and asleep by 9 p.m. The other side to relationships that form at bars or parties is the romantic ones. I am someone who is in a long-term relationship, who plans to be married in the next two years. I want to come home and wind down with my partner. For me, my favorite part of the day is coming home, eating dinner with my boyfriend, showering and getting into bed. I think it’s incredibly bizarre to judge or ridicule someone for not wanting to go out. Just because I go downtown maybe once every other month does not mean I think I’m so much better than you or that I’m a prude. All it means is I know what I like, and you know what you like. So please, if your friends don’t want to go out, don’t take it personally, and don’t resort to peer pressure, because let’s be honest, peer pressure is so 2010.

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he resounding truth is that journalism, now more than ever, must find itself rooted in ethical reporting. Perhaps it is my passion for journalism that colors my opinion so heavily, but at the end of the day, this country’s democracy would not be in the state it is now without freedom of the press being guaranteed. Without the daring reporters who fling themselves into war zones to report on the conditions, we as citizens would be left at the mercy of the government to tell us what to think or believe. That authority only leads to oppression, and so it is journalists who take on the role of informants. This is why it is so crucial that journalists leave the public with knowledge that is accurate, responsible and fair. There is a fine line between striving to get information that would benefit the public and actively crossing boundaries of privacy and human well-being. Recently, I have seen the profession I love nosedive down a slippery slope of biased reporting and clickbait stories based on unsubstantiated rumors and gossip. When I turn on the news, I can expect CNN to tell me ever ything President D o n a l d Trump is doing wrong and can hear a decidedly more progressive take on the events of the world. I can expect FOX to tell me why President Trump is doing everything right and to provide a far more conservative view on news. When I happen to come across

articles by the Daily Mail, I can expect some outlandish article on the royal family or the latest rumored misdeeds of a celebrity. I want real news back. I want objective takes on politics and the actions of public figures. Along with the American people and other consumers of media, I want responsibly garnered facts. Instead of a reputable news station or paper reporting their opinion on the happenings of the world in a section that is only supposed to be reporting news information, they ought to inform. They must do this without the fancy trimmings and cunning embellishments that are often twisted into a narrative that fits the look and appeal of an establishment. In a democratic nation such as the United States, we are granted the gift of voting and can decide who leads and represents our interests. The power of making informed decisions that are entirely our own is stripped from us the second the media decides to report anything other than the absolute

Illustration By Madison cohen

truth. It is difficult to keep the opinions and biases that every human holds out of reporting. As a journalist, I can acknowledge that. But it is a burden that we undertake and uphold. We have the daunting responsibility of accurately informing the public. Whether it is about the actions of a politician or the actions of a celebrity, the standard remains the same. While responsibly informing the public is a huge facet of journalism, we must also be aware of the other aspect of our job, which is how we portray and treat the subjects of our stories. It can be easy to commodify celebrities and politicians to the point their humanity starts to feel distant. Ultimately, the media’s words carry a powerful impact on their lives. It was over 20 years ago, before I was even born, that the tragic loss of Princess Diana happened in part due to the paparazzi media. This event still lingers in the minds of people around the world and in my own. While no members of the press who pursued Diana’s vehicle in that Paris tunnel were indicted on charges, they were heavily interrogated and it was concluded that negligence was present, as stated by a 1997 article from the Irish Times. It cannot be ignored that the actions of journalists bent on getting content were a factor in the high-speed and ultimately fatal crash. It is a bitter reminder that consequences await the steps taken to get a headline or an engaging feature. No flashy cover or front page article is worth a loss of life. There is power in the press, and it must be exercised accurately and responsibly.

OPINION-EDITORIAL

Streaming services are the new cable TV kylie soto

on’t fall for the trickery streaming services use. The illusion of needing more than one streaming service is carefully painted by the companies who own the content consumers are trying to watch. At the end of the month, everyone is essentially paying for cable, which is what these services were supposed to eliminate. As a college student, streaming services are necessary for the brain to take a break. I only have Netflix and Hulu, and am content with the options available to me. However, an outrageous amount of companies are starting up their own streaming services. This takes away the shows and movies they own from Netflix, Hulu and Amazon Prime Video, which are three of the most prominent streaming services available. According to Forbes, a study showed that “among all users, 84% use Netflix, 46% use Amazon Prime and 28% use Hulu.” The article also stated that 39% of streamers are millennials, who are between 18 and 34 years old, and 42%

are Generation X, which falls between 35 and 54 years old. Quite possibly the worst thing about it all is that people are still paying for these services separately. College students are blinded, like moths to a flame, by the words “student discount.” Considering most people have access to a Netflix account, the fact the company doesn’t offer a student discount is a bit of a punch to the stomach. Hulu and Amazon Prime both offer discounts, but when adding the cost for every streaming service a student may have, it is still a considerable amount of money to spend when the appeal of streaming services is that it is supposed to be cheaper than cable. Now, I’m not one to believe in a monopolistic world. However, I think one mega streaming service that has all of the movies and shows people want to watch would be wonderful. It was really the emergence of Disney’s new streaming service, Disney+, and the streaming service for Broadway musicals that crossed the line. Disney, a multibillion dollar company that

many adore, is forcing the public to pay even more to watch movies and reminisce on their childhoods. This is ridiculous. Life was great when Netflix was the head honcho, and everything anyone could want to

watch was in one place. Now, one must have two to three or more streaming services to watch all the movies and shows they desire. Another article from Forbes states “the average American subscriber watches 3.4 services. For each one, they pay an average $8.53 per month. That would total a monthly bill of $29. That’s less than a third of the average monthly cable bill of $107.” All in all, companies need to cool it with the release of new streaming services. No one asked for them, and very few people want to pay for them. Illustration By brook berry

Prescription drugs need to be affordable Madeline hollman

mericans are overpaying for prescription drugs. Big pharmaceutical companies are able to charge whatever price they want. There are generic, biologically similar products, but not for every drug on the market. Policies need to be put in place to protect consumers who depend on prescription drugs. It is time for the government to reform policies and lower the cost of pharmaceuticals. This is a serious issue that Americans face daily. The prices of prescriptions won’t go down unless big pharmaceutical companies are forced to lower their prices because of legislation approved by Congress. Rep. Frank Pallone (D-NJ) proposed a bill to congress — the Lower

Drug Costs Now Act, H.R. 3 — that would lower the cost of prescription drugs. The bill would end the ban on Medicare negotiating directly with drug companies. This would ensure people won’t lose access to their prescriptions, while still creating new policies that would stop drug companies from overcharging. The top 250 most expensive drugs on the market would be annually negotiated by the secretary of health and human services, as stated on Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi’s website. This will make it more affordable for all people to purchase medications. An “international price index” would be put in place. The Lower Drug Costs Now Act is supported by Pelosi, who has taken action on this pressing issue. With the recent impeachment inquiry on President Donald Trump, there is concern this bill would be pushed aside and delayed. Pelosi realized this is a top priority for the American people. There is hope that this Illustration By dominic davies

issue can be agreed on by both political parties. Pelosi stated that this is one issue that the Trump administration might cooperate on. People who suffer from life-threatening or chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, cancer and arthritis, have no choice but to pay for all the medication they are prescribed. Oftentimes, they simply cannot live without it. The prices for these medications can be extremely high. Prices of prescription drugs are higher in the United States than in any other developed country. Americans spend an average of $1,200 on prescriptions annually, as stated by The Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, which is significantly more than in other countries. There is a strain on people’s lives when they are forced to pay these outrageous costs. People have to sacrifice other priorities to pay for their pricey medications. When there are people who are faced with the choice of whether to buy their life-dependent prescriptions or groceries, there is a serious problem. The Lower Drug Costs Now Act needs to be a top priority for Congress. Americans are being ripped off by big pharma, and the government needs to step in and put a stop to it. Prescription drugs should be affordable to all people. This bill is long overdue and should be a top concern.

OCTOBER 17, 2019 – OCTOBER 23, 2019 | THE LUMBERJACK

FEATURES

The Senators write an Story and photos by Renee’ Hanneken

fter a long hiatus, The Senators have finally returned to the folk music world. They took a brief pause to focus on family and are returning to their craft this fall.

The Phoenix-based folk band is comprised of Jesse Teer, Chuck Linton, Marshall Hunt and Jason Yee, all of whom are Phoenix locals and came together for the love of music and storytelling. The self-proclaimed band geeks are headed by Teer and Linton. Teer is the lead singer, as well as a multiinstrumentalist. Linton is also a strong contributor, playing most string instruments, as well as the keys. Both grew up with a love for music, although this love originated from vastly different areas in the music world. Linton’s family owns a music store in Mesa, Arizona, Linton-

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Milano Music, and he has been exposed to music since his childhood. Teer was a cello player throughout high school and has since developed his musical abilities to much more than solely classical music. The two met through mutual friends and initially played with Teer’s brother, Adam. However, the brothers decided to go different directions and are now pursuing separate endeavors. The band name, The Senators, originates from an infamous story when two governmental representatives during the 19th century, Preston Brooks and Charles Sumner, engaged in a physical altercation. This altercation stemmed from disagreements regarding Sumner antagonizing a relative of Brooks, and ended with Brooks beating Sumner with a cane on the Senate floor. The Teer brothers thought this was a humorous story. Before one of their very first gigs, they

were in desperate need of a band name. Thus, The Senators were born. The band plays and produces music that demonstrates the struggles they have endured, while maintaining an authentic feel-good sound. Themes of love, family and heartache are apparent when listening to their music. In addition to the heartfelt sound, their music is also influenced by the simple beauty of the Southwest. Teer said their latest album, “Promised Land,” strips down their sound. Linton said their newest songs, some of which have yet to be released, have been the perfect blend of acoustic and artificial sound. One song titled “Hand Me Down” was deemed an all-time favorite by both Teer and Linton. Teer said this song was written from the heart. The song is about family and the conflict that ensued between him and his brother. Teer said the band

slowed down when their biggest challenge — having babies — presented itself. The band gained solid bookings early in their career from a variety of venues in Arizona and Los Angeles, and opened for other folk musicians such as Phillip Phillips. They were also a feature on Billboard’s Next Big Sound charts and gained licensing for overhead play in Starbucks nationally. However as their careers developed, so did their families, and music took the back burner for a while. “It makes us sick to not be able to do what we love, but also to not be with our kids,” Teer said. The break is over. The Senators have several tour dates announced and plan to add more. Work on “Promised Land” began around two years ago. An EP was released earlier this year under the same name as the full album, which is yet to be released.

FEATURES

nd ratify a new album “[We have been] sitting on something we know is carbon turning into diamond,” Teer said. “It’s time to get back at it.” The album was written and produced with Simone Felice of The Felice Brothers. Felice is a mainstream producer in the folk music industry. He has produced for musicians such as The Lumineers and Jade Bird. “[Felice] was in the new retro-folk movement,” Teer said. “That’s why we love him.” Felice hosts bands in his studio, Catskill Mountain Studio. Which is a converted barn turned music production set in East Jewett, New York. This opportunity to record with The Felice Brothers sparked something fresh within The Senators’ music. “Working with [Felice] was pretty intimidating,” Teer said. “I got sick the first day.” After overcoming the initial nerves of working with such a seasoned producer, Teer said collaborating with him was an incredible opportunity. Before working with Felice, Teer said the band walked in with a lot of layers. Felice showed members the importance of stripping down the music to write approachable, real ideas. In addition to finding a new way of writing, the band also commended Felice for showing a more editorial side to production and finding the true meaning of their work. “Promised Land” is also the name of a featured song on The Senators’ new album that harmonizes the band’s acoustic sound with their soothing vocals in a melodious track. Linton said this blending comprises the band’s sound and is what the composition of the new tracks exemplifies. “The new stuff, beside the Felice album, has got a lot of good buildup,” Linton said. “The sound is something you’d hear if Jughead and Betty were having troubles.” Linton said the composition of the songs The Senators release are organic and simple. Cara Grantham is one of the Senators’ many fans. She said the album features tracks that are stripped down, synthesized and combine elements from a variety of genres. These are the reasons many fans enjoy their music. “I’m not usually into the whole bluegrass

sound, but they add the perfect amount of it to their indie style,” Grantham said. “I also dig their lyrics.” The adoration from followers and passion each member shares for music is not always enough to keep the band functioning. Through years of touring locally and nationally, the band said they have had their fair share of ups and downs within the music industry. Teer said it is incredibly important to ground oneself within the music business. He said newcomers in the industry should stay rooted. Teer offered words of advice for up-andcoming musicians — advice that stems from the band’s own experiences in the industry. “Don’t ever think you’re bigger than you are,” Teer said. “Don’t turn down the little venue. Work with local places and build it up from there.” Teer said this is advice the band exercises themselves. The Senators have several dates released on their website and will be returning to Flagstaff in February after a brief tour in New Mexico. The band is featured on Apple Music, Spotify, Deezer and YouTube. The release date of “Promised Land” has yet to be announced, but an EP with the same name is now available and includes the song “Promised Land.” “[We have been] sitting on something we know is carbon turning into diamond,” Teer said. “It’s time to get back at it.” The album was written and produced with Simone Felice of The Felice Brothers. Felice is a mainstream producer in the folk music industry. He has produced for musicians such as The Lumineers and Jade Bird. “[Felice] was in the new retro-folk movement,” Teer said. “That’s why we love him.” Felice hosts bands in his studio, Catskill Mountain Studio. Which is a converted barn turned music production set in East Jewett, New York. This opportunity to record with The Felice Brothers sparked something fresh within The Senators’ music.

“Don’t turn down the little venue. Work with local places and build it up from there.” – Jesse Teer, Lead Singer

The Senators band members Jesse Teer (left), Jason Yee (center) and Chuck Linton (right) prepare for their performance at Historic Brewing Oct. 5.

OCTOBER 17, 2019 – OCTOBER 23, 2019 | THE LUMBERJACK

FEATURES

Hair Kuttz for success Camille Sipple

uttz Barber College is a place for people to learn new skills and develop careers. It has become somewhat of an icon in recent years within the Flagstaff area and community as a whole. After 10 years of steady business, shop owner Jabarha “Kutt” Nichols turned his treasured, local barbershop into a barber college. The Kuttz Barbershop is dedicated to teaching young barbers their craft through both technical and hands-on learning. Nichols decided to add a barber college to his shop five years ago for both personal and community reasons. “Well, I had another kid,” Nichols said. “Kids ain’t cheap. So I was like, ‘Wow, I got another kid, and there’s no barbers in the area.’ That was another reason. I was like, ‘Man, I’m gonna have to open a school to teach barbers.’” In the five years the barber college has been open, 25 students have graduated and are currently working in the beauty industry. Nichols said his school also has a 100% success rate among its graduates. Kuttz is not only home to a physical, inperson barber college but has recently been updated by Nichols and some of his friends. The barber college now includes an online path that potential barbers can opt to follow instead of a traditional classroom setting. “Everybody’s got a phone or an iPad, so we created this online barber college that frees up the instructors to have more time to instruct hands-on,” Nichols said. “Most barbers don’t come from an educated background, so they aren’t going to be willing to get that instruction license to be instructed to teach somebody. Now we’ve created something that we can put in place of the classroom setting instructor.” There are many inspiring stories that Kuttz Barber College has produced over the short time it has been open, but to Nichols, one that has always stood out was Jacob Cruz, nicknamed Ace Boogie. Cruz was a high school student when he first walked into Kuttz in 2011. At the time, Cruz was cutting his own hair and working two jobs to support himself, as he was completely on his own. “I told him I was gonna be his first student,” Cruz said. “Three years later in 2014, he opened Kuttz Barber College, and I was. I graduated five years ago, come this November.” Cruz is now a successful barber who is able

Kuttz Barber College owner Jabarha Nichols provides NAU senior Eric Magdaleno with a haircut Oct. 4. Nichols was recently honored by the city of Flagstaff when they made his birthday, Sept. 28, a city holiday in honor of him and his philanthropic work in the community. Damia Drewek | The Lumberjack

to support his two children and absolutely loves what he does. “I love my job: making people look good and feel even better,” Cruz said. “[It is] that feeling when you give somebody the mirror and they have a big smile on their face.” Nichols’ pride in his students is evident, simply in the way he describes Cruz’s success. “For me to have him as my first student and him being successful at what he does at a high level — that’s kind of a cool story that I like to share,” Nichols said. Cruz attributes the majority of his success in the barber industry to Nichols’ teaching and guidance. He said Nichols is still a big part of his life and his family. “We have become a family, and he’s very dear to me,” Cruz said. “He’s actually the godfather of my son. He gave me the tools and taught me the material.” Cruz is just one of Kuttz Barber College’s

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many success stories. There are current students who, although they haven’t been in the barber college for very long, have already fallen in love with it. Current student Jason LaCivita Jr. has been a part of the Kuttz Barber College for almost four months and has already planned his career path, based on Nichols’ and his instructors’ teaching expertise. “I love all aspects of the barbershop,” LaCivita Jr. said. “At some point I would like to become a barbershop owner or a barber college owner.” Their wholehearted inspiration and influence does not end there. Nichols is currently attempting to expand Kuttz to include an ice cream shop on one side and a learning center on the other. He is especially excited to present the learning center to the community, as it will benefit the youth in a way that would have truly helped him during his childhood.

“The learning center will bring educational stuff,” Nichols said. “From my background, not really knowing how to read efficiently, this will help kids on [the east] side of town to learn how to read, to be aware of balancing checkbooks, credit scores — stuff like that. They don’t teach that in school.” Nichols said he knows firsthand how difficult it can be to go through life or learn a trade without well-developed reading skills. This became evident to him when he was trying to open the barber college at Kuttz and faced the instructional barber license test. “I took that test seven times, and I finally passed it two years later, because I had to teach myself how to read,” Nichols said. “I can read, just not efficiently to retain what I read. So my kids’ mom — she read the book, and I recorded it, and I just listened to her read it over and over.” Kuttz occasionally brings in a professional DJ who plays music for customers and, in the process, teaches children and teens how to professionally DJ themselves. “I like to do things like that for the community to inspire them,” Nichols said. Apprentice at Kuttz Barber College Courtney Matzkanin plans to stay with the barbershop to hone his abilities. Matzkanin is a big proponent of Nichols’ engagement within the local community. “Kuttz is always putting other people first,” Matzkanin said. “He always wants you to pay it forward. What he is teaching in a crazy world like today is great for the community, and he’s a great, positive role model for youngsters.” Nichols said Kuttz is a place for everyone. If someone can’t afford a professional haircut, they can still get a decent cut from a barber in training. “We have professionals and students,” Nichols said. “So for someone that can’t afford professional prices, they can maybe afford the student barber price, which is seven bucks. That’s a $7 haircut, but if they want a professional, that’s a $20 to $25 haircut.” Kuttz Barber College has not only become a local place to get a haircut, but also somewhere students can get hands-on training within a profession that is relevant in modern society. The shop, along with its owner, have grown to be a figurehead of aid, support and inspiration within the Flagstaff community.

Michael Patacsil| The Lumberjack

24-hour Theatre Camille Sipple

AU’s Department of Theatre has a running clock for its yearly production “Helluva Time.” This recently performed, highly anticipated 24-hour theater show will be back before you know it. In most cases, theater performances have a long, strung-out process that demands perfection

on all fronts. However, time was of the essence for the writers, actors, directors and stage crew of last Saturday’s annual 24-hour theater performance, “Helluva Time.” Each fall in mid-October, the Alpha Psi Omega National Theatre Honor Society creates a time restricted performance for the public... Read more online at Jackcentral.org

OCTOBER 17, 2019 – OCTOBER 23, 2019 | THE LUMBERJACK

CULTURE

These boots are made for justice Olivia Charlson

A movie about the best TV show ever

f you clicked on or flipped to this review and haven’t watched “Breaking Bad” in its entirety, get out of here. There are massive spoilers ahead, and I’d hate to ruin such a phenomenal show for you. Besides, it is 2019, and if you haven’t watched it by now, I seriously question your prioritization skills. “Breaking Bad” is widely viewed as one of the greatest TV shows of all time, so I, along with the rest of the world, was elated to see some form of a sequel being released. For me, it is top two. And it is not two. Quick shoutout to Drake. This is a review about “El Camino: A Breaking Bad Movie,” which was released on Netflix Oct. 11, as NATHAN well as in select theaters. Vince Gilligan directed and MANNI wrote the film. For those unfamiliar, this is the same genius behind the “Breaking Bad” series. The film stars ASSISTANT CULTURE EDITOR Aaron Paul, who reprises his role as the troubled Jesse Pinkman. Poor Jesse. I found myself thinking this in almost every episode, as I watched the show and saw terrible things happen to him repeatedly. It’s like life was the scariest, most traumatizing carousel ride you could fathom — never easing up in terror, spinning around and round — and Jesse could never get off of it. He endured the most horrible things I’ve ever seen a character go through, and I really hoped there would be a brighter future for him in “El Camino.” The movie picks up almost immediately where the “Breaking Bad” finale left off. After a brief flashback with Mike Ehrmantraut, played by Jonathan Banks, Jesse screams in celebration as he drives the film’s namesake car out of the white supremacist gang compound, where he was kept prisoner to cook crystal meth. As we all know, Walter White, played by Bryan Cranston, went full “Rambo” and wiped out the gang with an oscillating M60 machine gun, or “Satan’s windshield wiper,” as Gilligan calls it. The liberated Jesse and his ex-partner, Walter, parted ways, fatally for the latter. Right away, the viewer is thrown back into “Breaking Bad” like it’s 2013 — fast-paced and nerve-wracking, just like I remembered. The rest of the film highlights Jesse’s escape from Albuquerque, and the character appears in almost every scene throughout the film. With Walter now dead, Jesse runs from his crime-ridden past, which appears to be right on his heels at every turn. Anybody who knows the story knows that Jesse is truly a kind-hearted person inside, and he was seemingly forced into the drug empire that Walter built off of his own greed. I wanted a happy ending for Jesse in “El Camino,” or safe, I should say, as nothing is really happy with Gilligan directing. Safe is what I got. Jesse, or Mr. Driscoll now, is somewhere safe with a new identity and life, thanks to Ed, the vacuum shop owner who also sets criminals up with a new life for a hefty fee. Allusions to “Breaking Bad” episodes, flashback scenes from deceased characters and the triumph of Jesse made this movie a perfect sequel to the legendary TV series and a strong closing to the saga. “El Camino” was absolutely outstanding.

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entlemen, it’s time to walk the walk. People in Flagstaff, especially men, were encouraged recently to heel up for a Walk a Mile in Her Shoes event. Locals took a step toward righteousness and turned the walk of shame into a walk of gain for a cause that raises awareness of domestic abuse. Men who participated bore some blisters Oct. 12 and learned the true meaning of “beauty is pain.” Typically, Walk a Mile in Her Shoes is an event where men put on high heels or anything that can be considered “her shoes” and parade around town drawing looks from spectators. This kind of event is meant to attract viewers and persuade them to ask questions about why they are doing so. Kolt Country radio, 107.5, helped host the event, in partnership with local sponsors and Flagstaff’s Sportsman’s Warehouse. The Saturday event raised money with a $25 participation fee and donated it to Victim Witness Services for Coconino County. Stan Pierce is a morning radio host on Kolt Country radio and the general manager for Stone Canyon Media in Flagstaff. Pierce said this was Kolt Country’s first time doing this event in Flagstaff. There were over 40 people signed up to walk and over 12 different sponsors, who either gave money to the cause or donated products at the event. “What the event usually looks like is a bunch of guys trying to walk a mile-ish in her shoes — high heels or something like that,” Pierce said. “It’s a visual event — seeing a bunch of guys walking in high heels — and it’s to bring attention to the domestic violence epidemic. Hopefully, that will attract people, and they’ll want to play and participate, or they’ll learn about Victim Witness Services and other domestic violence agencies in the area in case, God forbid, they ever need that service.”

Flagstaff’s Sportsman’s Warehouse manager Jenni Rigo agreed for the store to be the event’s final destination and to host the afterparty. Rigo said that Sportsman’s Warehouse works closely with the radio station and the women’s shelter down the road, Hope Cottage. Rigo said they sponsor Hope Cottage for its annual ladies’ night and raise funds to donate to the shelter. Rigo was excited to see the men walk in heels. “It is nice having the guys out on display. It’s kind of a fun concept,” Rigo said. “They’re going to be walking around in heels, which is really uncomfortable for them. I guess the idea is if you’re going to put somebody in an outward position like that where they’re going to be uncomfortable in their environment, it’s going to draw attention.” Rigo said that with the men parading around, this wasn’t an event the public would see every day. She said the event and the afterparty lead people to ask questions. Sophomore Samantha Margolias said the event was an

interesting concept, because a lot of men don’t think about it and don’t understand that high heels really do hurt. Margolias said domestic violence is an important issue, because she has seen people go through adversity and struggle in violent settings. “I have a friend who, every time he talks about his own experience, nobody really believes him, and that disbelief is discouraging,” Margolias said. “There are people who want to speak up and be heard, but they can’t, because other people don’t understand. It’s upsetting for me, personally, because I think that it’s important to talk about, and I think it’s important to validate people who are in pain and who want to have their voices be acknowledged.” Domestic abuse is not something to be taken lightly. Students who struggle should not be afraid to reach out to the resources at NAU, a friend, family member, teacher or any other relationship they have that can assist them in a harmful scenario. The Walk a Mile in Her Shoes event did its part to help raise donations and awareness of this cause. It may seem silly to see men stumble their way through downtown but this event had meaning to the community. This does not compare to being a woman, but it’s the closest one can get to spending a day in someone else’s shoes.

Illustration By Madison cohen

CULTURE

Illustration By Shelsey Braswell

The carless on campus conundrum Kyler Edsitty

alking to class in 14 inches of snow and sliding around on slippery sidewalks isn’t always fun. Neither is paying hundreds of dollars in parking fees and tickets. However, there are pros and cons that come with both owning a car and being carless that include buying parking passes, getting around town and visiting family back home. Sophomore Adrian Valencia is from Tucson and finds it difficult to go home as often as he would like. To attend family events and ceremonies, Valencia has to take a seven-hour bus ride home. The commute often causes him to miss classes. This is troubling, Valencia said, because going home is a form of stress relief, and the inability to do so makes him more anxious. Valencia also said

not having a car restricts the places he can work. It would be difficult working at the mall because it is all the way across town, and places closer to campus are often fully staffed. “It can be difficult not having a car, because it can really limit where you can go,” Valencia said. “It can get old being secluded to just campus and the few places that surround it.” Winter can be another obstacle carless students have to face. Sophomore Nicole Pablo experienced many problems during the past winter, from becoming ill to getting her socks and shoes wet. Pablo said she couldn’t go to the usual places she needed to, because it would be too cold to walk, and getting groceries on foot in the snow became a huge problem. She even recalled slipping while walking to class the day before classes were canceled. The icy weather also affected

Pablo’s ability to go home. She said her family often doesn’t feel comfortable driving to Flagstaff from New Mexico to bring her home. Throughout the winter, she has to frequently stay in town, while she would rather be at home. “Being in college can be very stressful,” Pablo said. “Terrible weather and having to travel in it doesn’t make it any better.” Miss Indigenous NAU, Brandi Espuma, has to attend events associated with her title, and not having a car has infringed on those tasks. Espuma has to go to events around Flagstaff and even to places on her reservation. She said using public transportation, taking Ubers and walking can be uncomfortable and even dangerous for women. “Asking people for a ride can be embarrassing,” Espuma said. “NAU is so condensed, and the rest of Flagstaff

is so spread out, and that makes getting around much harder.” Sophomore Ellisha Tsinnijinnie has a car on campus and said it can be inconvenient at times. Tsinnijinnie said she also experiences troubles during the winter. Near her apartment is a steep hill, and during the winter, it’s very icy. She’s seen other cars slide down, which made her scared to drive. She also tried to park by Cline Library or at the San Francisco Parking Structure, but all the passes were taken. She had to settle for a spot at the south commuter lot, and there were still hardly any parking spots available. “It’s so annoying to pay so much money just to be inconvenienced,” Tsinnnijinnie said. “Parking in other places means getting tickets, and that is just as bad.” Owning a car comes with more fees than simply paying for parking

permits. A student would also have to pay for insurance, maintenance and an actual car payment. All of these bills can be hard to keep up with on a college budget. Espuma said being carless helps the environment. She said driving can have a lot of carbon emissions, and one benefit of public transportation is that it reduces the strain on the environment. Pablo said since she doesn’t have a car, she has the opportunity to see stores and restaurants she wouldn’t see while driving. This allows her to shop at more local businesses, rather than driving to shop at large corporations. While having a car can seem like the best thing for a college student, the responsibilities and fees may not be worth the convenience. Exploring campus and the surrounding areas, and having extra cash may be a greater weight on the scale.

OCTOBER 17, 2019 – OCTOBER 23, 2019 | THE LUMBERJACK

CULTURE

Board & Brush brings DIY projects to life Nayomi Garcia

any art lovers have been stuck scrolling through YouTube or Pinterest looking at do-it-yourself (DIY) tutorials, saying to themselves that they are going to start making DIY projects. Some do, while others never get to it. Board & Brush Creative Studio allows people to create their own projects, no matter what artistic abilities they have. Board & Brush is a studio franchise where customers can create custom wooden boards, totes or welcome mats. The Flagstaff studio has been open for two and a half years. This year, Shannon Pebley and Morgan became owners of the studio. “Heather and I have been best friends for about 10 years now,” Pebley said. “We came to the studio a few times to have a friend’s night, and we fell in love with the place. We made boards for home decor, and we kept coming back since that day.” Although Pebley and Morgan found a place they loved, Pebley said she attended a private workshop at the studio where she found out it would soon be closing. The previous owner

decided she no longer wanted to own both the Flagstaff and Prescott locations. Pebley said she was disappointed the studio would be closing, but the previous owner asked her if she wanted to purchase the store. “I was very surprised when I received this offer,” Pebley said. “I didn’t think I could do it ... After about a month of debating, I decided I would do it. I called Heather, and she was hesitant at first, but then she said yes.” Pebley and Morgan bought the studio July 1. They began to teach themselves how to make the boards and run the store. On Sept. 1, they were given full ownership of the studio by the corporate offices. After getting corporate approval, they reopened the studio as official owners. The studio’s public workshops are scheduled about four times per week. People who wish to create boards must sign up for a workshop or book a private workshop on the studio’s website. When a workshop begins, attendees put on aprons and get ready to create their boards. “We prepare everything for the workshop before the attendees come in,” Morgan said. “We sand the wood and cut it so it’s a specific

size for the workshop. When the attendees get there, we have everything prepared for them, including the stencils for the boards. Once they pick the stencil they’d like to use, they get to use any colors to paint their board.” Board & Brush has hosted private workshop bookings for sororities, fraternities, birthday parties and bridal showers. For private workshops, attendees have a choice to make a board, tote or welcome mat. “It’s been a fantastic experience running the studio so far,” Morgan said. “Of course we’ve had a few mishaps here and there, but it’s all part of the learning experience. I’m very grateful for the community supporting us in our new journey.” Both Morgan and Pebley are locals, and they said knowing and working with the community has been essential in running the studio. The studio, located inside Aspen Place at the Sawmill, has gained support from the restaurants inside the shopping plaza. “The restaurants offer food discounts if people want to bring their food into our workshops,” Morgan said. “We’re just so grateful the community supports us in running the studio. Without the Flagstaff community, we

definitely wouldn’t be where we are right now. They made it easy for us to become business owners.” Morgan and Pebley said they want to pass the studio to their children after a few years. Both of them have daughters that are seniors in high school, and they would like them to run the studio while they remain owners. Hannah Morgan, Heather’s daughter, works at the studio in addition to working another job downtown. At the studio, she helps prepare for the workshops and assists attendees when they are making their boards. “I think Board & Brush is great, because people get to experiment with their artistic abilities,” Hannah Morgan said. “My favorite thing is to see the attendees leave the studio happy with their boards. I love seeing this, because it shows they had fun, and they’ll have a memory they can cherish for a long time.” While some people may be nervous to create a project that involves art, Board and Brush gives people the push they need to express themselves through a DIY project.

Left: Lillian McKinney from Winslow makes a sign at Board & Brush Creative Studio Oct. 13. Right: Board & Brush Creative Studio offers a DIY wood workshop in Flagstaff, which has officially been open for two years and is currently under new ownership. Jay Soliz | The Lumberjack

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5 S SAN FRANCISCO ST | 928.779.2739 3 S Beaver St | Flagstaff, Az | 928.779.0079

OCTOBER 17, 2019 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; OCTOBER 23, 2019 | THE LUMBERJACK

SPORTS

Postseason psychological pressures

laiming a spot in postseason baseball feels like solidifying a spot in the promised land. As a Los Angeles Angels fan, I cannot help but feel like a poor, poor sinner who is being forbidden from seeing the golden-paved roads. Los Angeles Dodger fans, on the other hand, are like Adam and Eve. They were so close to getting everything they wanted, but instead messed up last-minute. The Dodger’s forbidden fruit in this case is Clayton Kershaw. With his 4.43 ERA through 9 postseasons, Kershaw is famous for choking in October to the point of needing CPR. The Dodgers met the Washington MOLLY Nationals in the National League Division SMITH Series and went five games just for SPORTS EDITOR Washington to come out on top. With the Dodgers leading 3-1 in the eigth inning of the decisive Game 5, Kershaw allowed back-to-back home runs resulting in a tie game. The Nationals went on to win 7-3 in 10 innings. Fans were running over Kershaw’s jersey after the game. For what reason? These are the people who would break a sweat while saying a short speech. Meanwhile, Kershaw is performing at sold-out stadiums. Despite rooting for a rival team, I’m going to stick up for Kershaw. Postseason pressure is more than real. An article by The Sporting News dives into the psychology of choking in sports. Choking is when a player or team does not perform to the ability they are expected to. This happens for many reasons. The article explains that athletes, and in my opinion every human, likes to feel in control. When fans, journalists and coaches expect a specific performance, the player no longer feels he or she has control over their actions. As they climb the ladder of success, it seems as if the pressure should be relieved, because now it is their job. Professional athletics is built on pressure. The reason they are on display for millions to overanalyze and critique is that they are the best of the best. What are Americans best at? Judging. Anyone involved in the sports world knows this, which is why they all pretend not to know. If I had a dollar for every time a player said they pay no attention to scouts, family or friends in the stands, I would have my college paid off. But if I had a dollar for every time a coach acknowledged the lack, excess or expectancy of crowd attendance, I would surpass a journalist salary post-graduation. The two comments always butt heads in postgame interviews, so who is lying to themselves: the, “I’m zoned in the second I step on the court,” mentality or the, “We will have to see how they perform with a larger crowd than usual,” comment? I think both are pressured as hell, and the, “Fake it ‘til you make it,” motto is overdone and unhelpful.

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Forming chemistry on, off the court

NAU men’s basketball huddles during a game against Jacksonville University Nov. 10, 2018. Maria Saldivar | The Lumberjack

Molly smith

ld and new players are coming together as friends off the court to demonstrate interim men’s basketball coach Shane Burcar’s concept on transference. Stepping on the court at the start of each season generates different reactions. Brooks DeBisschop is beginning his final season as a Lumberjack. Meanwhile, Isaiah Lewis is beginning his first. Although the two are at opposite spectrums of their college careers, a bond has been created among the entire roster. With the amount of time these men spend together, it may be surprising that they are not tired of one another. Most days consist of morning conditioning at 6 a.m., followed by nutrition and late morning practices. Then they attend classes in the afternoon. Some athletes and most newcomers are required to go to study hall in the evenings. From start to finish, the men’s basketball team spends just about every waking moment together. It does not stop there. These athletes are best friends. “This group has come together really quickly — more than past years,” DeBisschop said. “Everyone gets along off the court, and that translates on the court.

Everyone is honestly really hard workers.” It is difficult to say whether the team’s relationships on the court are reflected by their time together outside of the gym or vice versa. The bond the veterans see during this preseason is already different than in years past. One tangible difference is in the coaching staff. Burcar took over as interim head coach after Jack Murphy traveled down south for a coaching job at his alma mater, UA. “We do a lot to make sure we have a cohesive team,” Burcar said. “At the end of the day, it is up to the boys and what they put into motion.” The word the Lumberjacks hold close to their hearts this season is transference, which is described as the ideas or expectations of one person being redirected and put into application by another. Burcar and his staff ensure that their concepts are being grasped and expressed in an applicable way by the team. With a new coaching staff and playing environment, it is important for Burcar to know what he wants, needs and means is being properly expressed. The concept of asking questions also goes hand in hand with transference. The environment on the court is created

to feel as a safe space for everyone. No matter their college experience, no one is looked down upon for asking questions, and the people answering never respond condescendingly. “Old and new, we need to make sure everyone is comfortable,” Burcar said. The Lumberjack’s newest additions include five freshmen and one transfer sophomore. Ten veteran players will return this season. The team is excited to have freshman forward Isaiah Lewis wearing blue and gold. Lewis came from Little Elm, Texas and is still adjusting to the Flagstaff climate. “Even though we practiced in June and are practicing every day, I still have a hard time catching my breath. Back home it’s still hot, and it got cold here early, so it is a challenge. But I like it,” Lewis said with a smile. Lewis said he is excited to play every game. He wants to go out and compete every day, but is looking forward to his first big college game against none other than UA, Nov. 6. The excitement levels are heightened for DeBisschop in this game, because it will be broadcast on national television. He sees it as a mini showcase of his and the team’s talents against those he calls “the big dogs.” This will be DeBisschop’s final season. He said he has 29 or 30 guaranteed games and plans to leave on a high note. He has appeared in nearly every game since his freshman year. During his sophomore season, he made his name appear among the Big Sky Conference leaders at No. 4 place for rebounds with a 7.4 average, the best on the team. On and off the court, his successes are acknowledged, as he was only the third men’s basketball player to be named an Academic All-America selection. Despite his past personal successes, he knows this season holds something special for NAU. “You can’t win a championship today,” DeBisschop said. “You’ve gotta win every single day, and I think we’re already in a good spot.” The team will have a blue and gold scrimmage in the Rolle Activity Center Saturday, Oct. 19.

THE BLACK PANTHERS, THE BUTTERFLY BRIGADE, AND THE UNITED FARM WORKERS OF AMERICA: THEIR ROLE IN THE DISABILITY RIGHTS MOVEMENT

The Section 504 sit-in, a watershed moment for disability rights, is the longest occupation of a federal building in United States history. Its success was due to a broad coalition of civil rights organizations. Join us as we explore how African American, LGBTQ, and Latinx civil rights organizations were instrumental in the success of the sit-in. Paul Grossman, former Chief Regional Attorney for the Office for Civil Rights, will

OCTOBER 30 | 6 – 8

| KITT RECITAL HALL

lead us through the backstory of this historic event in our nation’s civil rights legacy.

OCTOBER 17, 2019 – OCTOBER 23, 2019 | THE LUMBERJACK

SPORTS

Akin and Harris: Lumberjacks’ double threat thomas rodgers

Abby Akin (left) and Heaven Harris (right) have a long history of playing club volleyball together, Oct. 7. Michael Patacsil | The Lumberjack

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o matter who they compete against, whether it is a nationally ranked team across the country or a conference competitor at home, the NAU women’s volleyball team poses a threat to any team that crosses its path. At the offensive head of the Lumberjack roster are senior middle blocker Abby Akin and junior opposite hitter Heaven Harris, who have shined as two of NAU’s most crucial assets both offensively and as leaders for the young, up-and-coming squad. “We are a really young team this year, with only three seniors playing and mostly freshman on the court,” Harris said. “I think it’s just something that’s a learning process for everyone.” For both of NAU’s vital team members, their story begins nearly two hours south in Phoenix. Both Harris and Akin were born in the valley and showed promise early in their high school careers. Harris was a four-year starter at Hamilton High School and received Arizona All-State Honors as an opposite hitter in 2016. Akin was also a four-year starter, who compiled an impressive resume with over 320 kills while at Chapparal High School. Both being dominant players at their own high schools, Akin and Harris crossed paths before their arrivals at NAU, having played each other through club volleyball leagues in the valley. Akin did not remember much of that time but could recall a couple details about her teammate. “She had pink hair back then, so I do remember her that way,” Akin said. “She was a stud then and she still is.” Akin’s choice to attend NAU had an interesting background with a family legacy that not only gives her support, but motivation to get better. Both of Akin’s parents graduated from NAU in the early ‘90s and were college athletes during their time in Flagstaff. Akin’s father played basketball and her mother played volleyball. With Akin following in their footsteps, she said it’s special to see her family up in the stands every time she gets to play at home in the Rolle Activity Center. Akin said she finds both gratitude and drive when she hears her family cheering her along through each home set. “When I see [my dad] in the stands, I feel like I’m playing for him and playing for my family, who’s gotten me to the point of being who I am on the court today,” Akin said. Akin’s motivation shows promise, and she has climbed the national rankings this season on both sides of the net, holding the No. 11 spot in total blocks across the nation with 85 and No. 16 for blocks per set at 1.44. Not only is Akin ranked nationally on a defensive level but she has also received national recognition on offense, ranking No. 11 in the nation and leading the Big Sky in hitting percentage, at .428 with 168 kills. She has averaged 2.56 kills per set on the season. Harris trails closely behind Akin with the second most kills, at 149 on the season, while averaging 3.10 kills per set and proving herself a dominant offensive threat for the Lumberjacks. The two upperclassmen shine as leaders of the Lumberjack squad. Their impact as two of the team’s most crucial assets can be found in more places than just the stat book. “[Akin and Harris] bring such positive energy to our team

SPORTS every single day,” head coach Ken Murphy said. “They’re obviously very accomplished players, and their skills kind of carry us at times. But when they’re performing, their energy is kind of infectious for everybody. It helps everyone relax, boosts some confidence and makes us feel we can play at a very high level just by the way they carry themselves.” Their energy is no secret to NAU fans either. With an extremely competitive nonconference schedule, the young squad faced No. 15-ranked University of Michigan. The Lumberjacks later came across other teams that have been known threats on a national scale. No matter the team, these two do not shy away from the competition and prove to be vital components to the Lumberjacks’ performances against larger Division I schools.

Harris has shown her offensive prominence by putting up big numbers throughout the season. This included a season high of 18 kills against La Salle University and nine matches with 11 or more kills. Akin has etched herself in NAU history as No. 1 in program history for hitting percentage at .383. Akin has received high marks this season. In addition to her record hitting percentage, she also ranks No. 5 in total block assists at 316, as well as No. 5 in blocking average at 1.09. For both players, as well as the rest of the team, it is important to keep a level head throughout the wins. Despite record-breaking performances, the Lumberjacks are 10-8 for the season and snapped a three-game losing streak against the University of Montana after being handed losses from Portland State University,

Sacramento State University and Montana State University. Nearly halfway into their conference schedule this season, Akin said there is plenty the team can improve on as they approach the season’s final stretch. “When we play big schools, we play really well,” Akin said. “We need to get better at playing not so good schools and still staying the same.” Harris said one major focus is about not getting complacent and keeping a level head no matter who the opponent is. “What’s a little tough is that we do undermine schools sometimes in our conference … the schools in our conference are super competitive just like us,” Harris said. “They just didn’t schedule their preseason as hard as we did. Staying consistent and making sure that we’re

playing the same regardless of who’s across the net is something that we’re all trying to work on.” When working around a young team, Akin said confidence is key. “It’s important to help instill that confidence in [the younger players], especially on the court,” Akin said. “It’s definitely difficult, but I think with anything it’s a learning process, and we’re just trying to get better and better with that.” The Lumberjacks defeated Montana 3-2 Saturday. The young team seeks to spark a turnaround effort as they begin their fourth weekend of conference play against the University of Idaho Oct. 17 in Moscow, Idaho.

NAU women’s volleyball’s junior opposite hitter Heaven Harris (left) and senior middle blocker Abby Akin (right) pose for portraits at the Rolle Activity Center Oct. 7. Michael Patacsil|The Lumberjack

OCTOBER 17, 2019 – OCTOBER 23, 2019 | THE LUMBERJACK

HOMECOMING 2019

FLAGSTAFF, CELEBRATE HOMECOMING WITH US!

JOIN THE LUMBERJACK FAMILY’S WEEK-LONG FESTIVITIES. MANY EVENTS ARE FAMILY-FRIENDLY AND FREE!

MONDAY, OCT. 21

FRIDAY, OCT. 25

Make-it Monday | Union Point | 7 p.m.

Carnival | Union Pedway/P11 | 4 p.m.

TUESDAY, OCT. 22 NAU Downtown Night Out | Heritage Square | 4–7 p.m. Ultimate Lumberjack Challenge | Union Point | 7 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, OCT. 23 Dedicatee banquet | Ashurst Auditorium, tickets required | 6 p.m.

THURSDAY, OCT. 24 Women’s Volleyball vs Northern Colorado | Rolle Activity Center | 6:30 p.m. Traditions Day chili cook-off | Central Quad | 6 p.m.

Women’s Soccer vs Weber State | Lumberjack Stadium | 7 p.m.

SUNDAY, OCT. 27 Women’s Soccer vs Idaho State | Lumberjack Stadium | 1 p.m.

Traditions Day pep rally and bonfire | Central Quad | 7 p.m.

For the parade route map, continuing updates, and family-friendly events, visit nau.edu/homecoming.

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