The Lumberjack -- September 23, 2021

PICKIN’ IN THE PINES MUSIC FESTIVAL RETURNS PAGES 16-17 THE LUMBER JACK SEPT. 23, 2021 – SEPT. 29 2021

Online at JackCentral.org

From the Editor

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n all honesty, I have been trying to figure out what to write for at least a week. After a lot of thought, I am in exactly the same place: I have no clue what to write about. So, for those of you looking for some hard-hitting, deep article from me, sorry to disappoint. I have decided to write about how I’ve been feeling this semester.

Compared to last semester, I have honestly noticed a significant shift in terms of my mental well-being and overall happiness. It’s hard to pinpoint exactly when I felt this shift happen but I am so glad it did. I have been so much happier with myself, and the people I’ve surrounded myself with, than I have CAMILLE been in a long time.

SIPPLE Several of my classes this semester have made me so much more excited to learn than I have been in years. The people in my life are constantly astonished MANAGING EDITOR at how busy I usually am and how much work I put in on a weekly basis. I mean, they aren’t exactly wrong; there definitely is a certain amount of stress I place upon myself each week. However, for some reason, these stressors have yet to outweigh how much enjoyment I have been getting out of life.

Although my personal life is definitely a large part of this, it would be wrong if I didn’t give The Lumberjack staff the credit they deserve as well. Working with and getting to know everyone in the Media Innovation Center during the week has been one of the best parts of my week. I have gained such a supportive, quirky and overall fun community that I wouldn’t trade for the world.

Thank you for reading.

THE LUMBERJACK VOL. 112 ISSUE 5

Managing Editor Camille Sipple

Copy Chief Trevor Skeen

Faculty Adviser David Harpster

Print Chief Ash Lohmann

Director of Digital Content and Social Media Emily Gerdes

Media Innovation Center Editorial Board

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Sports Adviser Rory Faust

Asst. Features Editor Lauren Anderson

Asst. News Editor Tess Stafford

Culture Editor Katelyn Rodriguez

Director of Photography MacKenzie Brower

Op-Ed Editor Kylie Soto

Asst. Culture Editor Haylee Emch

Asst. Dir. of Photography Brian Burke

Asst. Op-Ed Editor Marley Green

Sports Editor Brenden Martin

Features Editor Olivia Charlson

Asst. Sports Editor Will Hopkins

Director of Illustration Diana Ortega

THE LUMBERJACK | JACKCENTRAL.ORG

Online at Issuu.com Latest Edition & Archive Social media

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

Editor-in-Chief Nathan Manni

News Editor Mark Fabery

Stay up to date with Breaking news, Flagstaff city council, campus happenings and NAU sports on jackcentral.org

Director of Multimedia Shawn Patti

On the cover The Pickin’ in the Pines crowd gathers at Pepsi Amphitheater for bluegrass and acoustic music, Sept. 17. Ash Lohmann | The Lumberjack

Corrections & Clarifications In an article titled “NAU football in the midst of longest road trip in over a decade,” it was reported NAU freshman quarterback RJ Martinez went to Blue Ridge High School. Martinez went to Westwood High School in Austin, Texas. Corrections to the story have been made.

In an article that published both online and in Issue 4 called “NAU faces campuswide staff shortages,” it was incorrectly reported that Sodexo Human Resources Manager Laurie Dwyer was employed with NAU. Corrections to the story have been made.

The Lumberjack apologizes for these errors. The Lumberjack is committed to factual correctness and accuracy. If you find an error in our publication, please email Nathan Manni at nem233@ nau.edu.

PoliceBeat Sept. 13 At 1:20 p.m., a Honors College resident requested medical assistance for their roommate. NAUPD, Flagstaff Fire Department (FFD) and Guardian Medical Transport (GMT) responded, and the student was transported to Flagstaff Medical Center (FMC) for a preexisting condition.

At 3:05 p.m., a Reilly Hall RA reported a bag of pills taped to a student’s door. NAUPD responded and confirmed the pills were breath mints.

At 8:55 p.m., a RA reported the sound of someone screaming in lot 41. An officer responded but heard no screaming.

At 9:43 p.m., a Mountain View Hall resident reported theft by extortion and unlawful distribution of images.

NAUPD responded and took a report.

Sept. 14 At 12:18 p.m., a staff member reported a student who fell off a skateboard in lot 16. NAUPD, FFD and GMT responded, but the student refused medical transport.

At 2:07 p.m., several students reported a student on a skateboard had been struck by a vehicle off campus.

NAUPD, FPD, FFD and GMT responded, and the student was transported to FMC. At 6:48 p.m., NAUPD reported attempting to serve documents to a Tinsley Hall resident.

Sept. 15 At 12:04 p.m., NAUPD reported assisting FPD off campus, at the intersection of Lake Mary Road and High

compiled by Mark Fabery

Country Trail, in an attempt Annex staff member reported to find a suspect in a road rage finding personal property. incident.

NAUPD responded and took it for safekeeping.

At 4:11 p.m., a Tinsley Hall RA reported damage At 7:30 p.m., a South to a light and room placard. Village Apartments resident NAUPD responded and took reported the odor of gas. a report.

NAUPD responded and found no leak was present. Facility At 6:16 p.m., a NAU Services was notified. bus driver reported a disabled bus blocking the intersection Sept. 18 of South San Francisco Street At 1:27 a.m., a and Pine Knoll Drive, in McConnell Hall staff member addition to needing help reported damage to an exit with traffic control. NAUPD sign. NAUPD responded and and University Safety took a report.

Aides responded to provide assistance.

At 2:21 p.m., a nonstudent reported they lost a Sept. 16 wallet in San Francisco Parking At 8:49 a.m., a Student Garage. NAUPD responded and Academic Services staff and took a report. member reported a suspicious person and possible theft.

At 8:20 p.m., a Cowden NAUPD responded and Hall RA reported a fire alarm witnessed no criminal activity. going off. NAUPD responded and disabled the alarm.

At 12:55 p.m., a student reported an assault by another Sept. 19 student in the Engineering At 2:26 a.m., NAUPD building. NAUPD responded investigated a report of an and observed no criminal occupied vehicle in the San activity.

Francisco Parking Garage.

Two students were deferred At 2:16 p.m., a South for minor in consumption of Village Apartments resident alcohol. reported a private property accident. NAUPD responded At 2:56 a.m., while on a and took a report. traffic stop, NAUPD reported a drug offense in lot 68. Three At 10:39 p.m., NAUPD students were referred for use reported seeing a vehicle of marijuana and the driver driving erratically off campus, was issued a citation for speed. but was unsuccessful in making contact. Information At 4:26 p.m., an was passed to FPD. employee reported three nonstudents climbing Walkup Sept. 17 Skydome. NAUPD responded At 12:18 a.m., a Tinsley and warned the subjects of Hall RA requested assistance trespassing. for a student who fell out of their loft bed. NAUPD, FFD At 9:19 p.m., a student and GMT responded and the reported the sound of someone student was transported to shouting near The Suites.

FMC. NAUPD responded, heard no shouting and witnessed no At 8:02 a.m., a Geology criminal activity.

Total CASES IN COCONINO COUNTY: 334 Transmission rate: High tOTAL NUMER OF COVID-19 VACCINE DOSES ADMINISTERED: 156,103 PERCENT OF PEOPLE VACCINATED: 58.1% NUMBER OF PEOPLE WHO ARE FULLY VACCINATED AGAINST COVID 19: 73,786

Deasy announces support for Protecting the Right to Organize Act Mark Fabery

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lagstaff Mayor Paul Deasy sent a letter to Arizona Senators Mark Kelly and Kyrsten Sinema asking them to support the Protect the Right to Organize (PRO) Act of 2021.

The bill would allow unions to override right-to-work laws and collect union dues from nonmembers who still benefit from collective bargaining. Moreover, it would also prohibit company-sponsored meetings to urge employees against unionizing, define most independent contractors as employees and protect employees who are attempting to unionize from being fired, among other provisions.

In the letter, Deasy said this piece of legislation is important because it aims to expand labor protections related to employees’ rights to organize and collectively bargain in the workplace. Read more at jackcentral.org

SEPT. 24 - SEPT. 29, 2021 | THE LUMBERJACK

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American Rescue Plan to distribute funds to Flagstaff annika beck

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resident Joe Biden signed the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) in March, which provided $350 billion in extra funding for local and state governments.

During a Sept. 7 Flagstaff City Council meeting, staff discussed the legislation, and the council’s budget team walked through how the funding could be used in the community.

The National Association of Counties stated the bill not only includes $65.1 billion of direct funding and flexible aid to every county in America, but also crucial investments in local communities.

Sarah Langley, interim public affairs director for the city, talked about the funding provided by ARPA — although council was still waiting on the United States Department of the Treasury to confirm what programs are available for allocations under the act.

Council’s presentation analyzed the intent behind spending funds, such as contributions to clean energy and community resilience, while also acknowledging the prohibited uses of tax deduction and pension funds.

“The bill focuses on traditional infrastructure elements such as surface transportation, airports and water infrastructure,” Langley said. “Though the bill hasn’t been passed yet, it most likely will take many months to approve the funding.”

The timeframe for funds to officially be allocated is March 3, 2021 to Dec. 31, 2024.

According to the National League of Cities, all the funds must be used by December 2026.

Stacey Brechler-Knaggs is the grants and contract manager, as well as disaster recovery coordinator for Flagstaff. She discussed the significance of being transparent with funds directed toward helping the community, especially during this time of post-Museum Fire flooding.

“The funds can be used for public health [and] negative economic impacts service to disproportionately impacted communities, premium pay infrastructure, revenue replacement administrative and other costs,” Brechler-Knaggs said. “The city is responsible for responding to current community needs, such as the COVID-19 public health emergency and meeting necessary funds to help advance the racial equity and support of underserved communities.”

According to the ARPA spending guide from the U.S. Department of the Treasury, ARPA funds can be distributed to these subcategories and other areas: Public health, negative

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“The city is responsible for responding to current community needs, such as the COVID-19 public health emergency and meeting necessary funds to help advance the racial equity and support of underserved communities.”

– Stacy Brechler-Knaggs, grants and contract manager/disaster recovery coordinator, City of Flagstaff

economic impacts, service to disproportionately impacted communities and premium pay, along with investments in sewer, water and broadband infrastructure among them.

City management analyst Rick Tadder said the budget draft proposal of the ARPA allocated funds for 15 categories. The proposal includes $500,000 for the vaccination incentive program, $200,000 for congregate setting agencies such as shelters and schools, $75,000 in mental health and substance services and $2.4 million in pilot programs to assist with alternate care services.

Councilmember Regina Salas said more funding should be available for community food and nutrition support. Salas was particularly interested in investing funds to nonprofits that are directly linked to providing shelter services in Flagstaff, such as Hope Cottage and Catholic Charity Services. She asked the council to “identify more support services that offer shelter for the homeless, shelter for animals and food services.”

Other councilmembers and public

attendees made statements concerning the allocation of extra money toward housing and shelter in Flagstaff. Devonna McLaughlin, CEO of housing solutions of northern Arizona, in addition to Vice Mayor Becky Daggett, both raised concerns about distributing more ARPA funds for housing assistance programs.

According to the Arizona Daily Sun, councilmember Austin Aslan said funds could be pulled from tourism recovery to support more programs for food, care and housing assistance.

The draft proposal is also set to invest $355,000 in tourism-related business, $500,000 for small businesses, $725,000 for nonprofits and $50,000 for community resources to aid a quick economic recovery.

ARPA funds will be dispersed throughout Flagstaff in the next five years to a variety of organizations and departments in Coconino County. Furthermore, the CARES Act is set to return to council with revisions and additions for approval.

The American Rescue Plan Act, signed by President Joe Biden in March, will allocate $65.1 billion in direct funding and flexible aid to every county in America. Isabella Couture | The Lumberjack

THE LUMBERJACK | JACKCENTRAL.ORG

NEWS

Acupuncture may help recover taste, smell after COVID-19 lauryn steitz

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scientifically researched symptom of COVID-19 is the loss of taste and smell.

According to the Journal of Internal Medicine, on average, patients recover these senses within 21.6 days of testing positive, whereas others reported a 60-day timeframe.

There were even patients who dealt with these symptoms for much longer.

Flagstaff Business News published an article referencing the effects acupuncture can have on the loss of taste and smell in those who experienced COVID-19 infection.

Dr. Christina Kovalik, a naturopathic physician and acupuncture specialist, has practiced acupuncture since 2004 and she contributed to this recent discovery. With locations in Flagstaff and Scottsdale, Kovalik said she has treated people with symptoms like sinus congestion, allergies and headaches.

“More recently treating this condition with the pandemic, I have had a handful of patients in the last six months with the post-COVID loss of smell and taste,” Kovalik said.

According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, acupuncture is a form of Chinese medicine dating back thousands of years. It is practiced by licensed acupuncturists, chiropractors, medical doctors and naturopathic specialists alike.

Different results are targeted based on distinct pains, such as back, neck and dental.

Kovalik said she focuses on the importance of enjoying food again, which is possible through her treatment.

“Acupuncture works very well at opening the nasal passageways, boosting the immune system, opening the lungs and improving breathing,” Kovalik said. “So naturally, I did some research and found multiple acupuncture points that improve taste and smell.”

The acupuncture process involves thin needles poked in specific spots on the skin and then moved around in particular motions, either by a specialist or electronic stimulation. Based on the same publication from Johns Hopkins, this process should be painless, but poor placement of the needles during treatment can cause pain.

The article also noted acupuncture needles are regulated by the FDA, so not everyone can acquire them. Moreover, people seeking this treatment should do research before choosing a specialist.

Kovalik said acupuncture sessions range from 30 to 60 minutes. During this time, the qi, a term for the energy transferred on the pathways between small needles, is stimulated.

“This results in a balancing effect, releases natural endorphins, creates a sense of well-being and lessens symptoms,” Kovalik said.

There is a possibility acupuncture is not right for certain individuals, and it is important to remember results vary, Kovalik said. Clients need anywhere from one to five sessions before differences in taste and smell become apparent, she added, although additional treatment is often necessary for perpetual results.

Another acupuncture specialist in Flagstaff, Teresa Buechel from Buechel Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, shared her views on Kovalik’s practice.

“The article is good and totally makes sense,” Buechel said. “I have had several patients with COVID who are experiencing long-hauler symptoms, but none have had loss of taste and smell that lasts.”

Long-haul COVID may induce fatigue, body aches and joint pain, along with menstrual and hormonal issues, Buechel said.

The director of infectious disease research at Translational Genomics Research Institute, David Engelthaler, said the lack of formally-tested trials and solid scientific evidence does not necessarily mean acupuncture treatment is ineffective in regaining taste and smell — but he would like to see more science behind it. “ Ho p e f u l l y, carefully controlled clinical trials can be done to fully assess the utility of acupuncture, but until then, there are probably limited negative effects for people who try this as a therapeutic approach,” Engelthaler said. “The good news is that the vast majority of patients who exhibit loss of taste and smell during their COVID infection will regain these senses over time.”

Although Kovalik and Buechel said they believe acupuncture can regenerate smell and taste, Engelthaler advocated for more testing to confirm accurate results. However, none of these doctors disagreed about the possibility of acupuncture as a treatment option in the years to come.

“Hopefully, the carefully controlled clinical trials can be done to fully assess the utility of acupuncture, but until then, there are probably limited negative effects for people who try this as a therapeutic approach.”

– Dr. David Engelthaler, director of infectious disease research, Translational Genomics

Illustration By Christian ayala

SEPT. 24 - SEPT. 29, 2021 | THE LUMBERJACK

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NEWS

NAU Young Democrats welcome Katie Hobbs mark fabery

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AU alumna and Arizona Secretary of State Katie Hobbs was welcomed by NAU Young Democrats Sept. 15 as she discussed a variety of campaign initiatives, while trying to garner support in her quest to succeed term-limited Gov. Doug Ducey.

Speaking via Zoom, Hobbs introduced herself as a candidate who learned from her time as a social worker, state legislator and senator in order to break through what she called “partisan gridlock.” She said the goal is to bring real action, change and results for Arizonans.

“Growing up, there were a lot of times where [my family] struggled, and we relied on food stamps,” Hobbs said. “This experience always made me want to give back, and I became a social worker where I was working at a domestic violence shelter.

I saw, first-hand, how broken politics derail any real action and make real change harder, but I also learned how to break through some of this partisan gridlock and get things done for Arizonans.”

Moreover, Hobbs talked about how after she was elected to the state legislature, she worked with Republicans on the backlog of untested rape kits and expanded Medicaid with former Gov. Jan Brewer. She also described working on “historic legislation” with Gov. Ducey to directly tackle the opioid epidemic in the state.

Regarding the 2020 presidential election and organizing in Arizona, Hobbs said her goal was to conduct the most successful election her office possibly could. Hobbs mentioned her bipartisanship, while also working to reduce wasteful spending and aiming to streamline operations to make her office accountable to the people — all while juggling the pandemic.

“In 2019, when I was sworn in, I had no idea the roadblocks that we were going to face in our efforts to conduct a successful NAU Young Democrats pose for a photo with Secretary of State Katie Hobbs, Sept. 15. Brian Burke | The Lumberjack election,” Hobbs said. “We were up against a global pandemic, unprecedented attacks on the validity of the election and violent ‘Trumpy’ option,” Hobbs said. “We do have a real opportunity to candidate and was not straightforward with her responses.

“It’s honestly a little disappointing to have another candidate win and bring our state back on track.” threats against me, my family and my staff.”

Secretary Hobbs concluded her conversation with NAU’s who was just deflective and not really answering straightforwardly, Hobbs was also asked about the continued audit of Maricopa County election results by an outside firm, Cyber Ninjas, which Young Democrats by holding a short Q&A session. She responded but I guess that is just really natural for her and the nature of was hired by the Republican-led Senate to audit the 2.1 million to a wide variety of questions regarding volunteer efforts and politics,” Allaire said. “It is a little relieving to have a candidate votes cast in Maricopa County during the 2020 presidential election security, but some were underwhelmed by her stances like her, especially knowing there are so many other extreme farright candidates.” election. She called out Arizona and said the state government and answers.

The Democratic primary for governor is scheduled for Aug. Freshman Amanda Allaire was one of many NAU Young is being run by a group of conspiracy theorists who insist former Democrats in attendance, and she expressed disappointment 2, 2022, with the general election occurring later that year on President Donald Trump won the election.

“What I’ve learned from the last several months, and many with the secretary of state, noting she is not the most progressive Nov. 8.

Arizonans are with me on this, [is] the truth that our state government is being led by a group of conspiracy theorists who are out of touch with everyday Arizonans — and they are holding us back,” Hobbs said. “Instead of working on issues that matter to most people, they are busy litigating the 2020 election, because they don’t like the results.”

Currently, Hobbs is running against State Rep. Aaron Lieberman and former Nogales Mayor Marco Lopez, for the Democratic nomination for governor. Hobbs said she believes in her opportunity to become the 24th governor of Arizona.

“Meanwhile, the Republican primary is a circus with half-adozen candidates and counting who are all trying to be the most

“I saw, first-hand, how broken politics derail any real action and make real change harder, but I also learned how to break through some of this partisan gridlock and get things done for Arizonans.”

– Katie Hobbs, NAU Alumna and Arizona Secretary of State

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COMIC SPOT

SEPT. 23- SEPT. 29, 2021 | THE LUMBERJACK

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OPINION-EDITORIAL

Eating meat is destroying our planet Sydney Staniec

Fashion events are back and elitist as ever

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ow that public gatherings are back in full swing, the world of fashion is being brought to the forefront of media.

New York Fashion Week kicked into gear and was shortly followed by the annual Met Gala, hosted on Sept. 13. As it makes its annual sweep over social media, I question the legitimacy of the fashion JESSIE MCCANN industry’s celebrity-oriented nature.

Although it's entertaining to judge WRITER different styles and see famous people gather, it proves more so to be a wasteful practice — and paints fashion as frivolous.

This year, the theme for the Met Gala was “In America: A Lexicon of Fashion,” the first in a two-part exploration continuing next year. It's been two years since the event took place, but it’s only fair to say designers lost their touch, as many celebrities completely missed the mark on the theme.

USA Today stated, “The most inventive fashion moments have often happened on the fringes of society, rather than at an event often centered around wealthy, cisgender white people.”

What has been made to be the pinnacle of fashion is not even scratching the surface of the art that is fashion design.

When considering the privilege of attending, public opinion of the Met Gala was especially divergent this year.

Some designers covered the cost of the $30,000 tickets for their celebrity models, further exhibiting wealth exclusivity.

Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s dress, in particular, sparked controversy.

Among other outfits involving political statements, her dress read “tax the rich.” Some praised the message, while others scrutinized its emptiness. Anticipating criticism, Ocasio-Cortez explained how New York elected officials are often invited to attend the Gala as part of their responsibilities.

Nonetheless, the irony of the statement forced me to note how she refused to admit her privilege while being part of one of the most exclusive events with the wealthiest people in the country.

Just outside the Met, Black Lives Matter protesters were arrested while inside, celebrities lived a fantasy. That alone speaks for America's flawed political agenda.

The perilous state of the country’s unity has only been heightened by elitist events such as these, and there are infinitely more important issues at stake than what celebrities are wearing.

A theme such as “American Independence” could never be represented accurately, if this so-called independence is based on false ideals and only highlights the nation’s richest.

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hen thinking about the main culprits that contribute to global climate change, we tend to focus on the burning and extraction of fossil fuels and transportation. However, there is a larger threat to our planet that often goes unchallenged: The livestock industry.

This business is one of the largest contributors of greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere. According to the Land Health Institute, the meat industry produces more greenhouse gases than transportation.

The Food and Agriculture Organization reports “about 44% of livestock emissions are in the form of methane.”

Methane is more harmful than carbon dioxide, as it has a global warming potential 82 times greater than that of carbon dioxide over 20 years.

Cattle, raised for both beef and milk, is the species responsible for the most greenhouse gas emissions within the livestock sector, representing about 65% of them.

While cow flatulence does produce a small amount of methane, belching is the main culprit. Inside Climate News reported about a quarter of United States methane emissions come out of livestock, mostly from belching.

An article by World Animal Protection stated cows burp approximately every 90 minutes, and it also noted “1.47 billion cows are burping and farting out approximately 150 billion gallons of methane every day.”

Cows and other animals, such as goats, sheep and buffalo, are ruminants, which means they re-chew and re-swallow food in a cycle called rumination. This natural digestive process creates methane, which is burped. Another reason cows burp frequently is their insufficient diets; they are often given corn and soy to cut down on production costs.

According to Clear Water Action, cow manure decomposes and releases emissions, including methane, ammonia and carbon dioxide, thus accelerating climate change. In addition to this process, manure collection ponds generate about one-tenth of all U.S. methane production.

This means the dairy industry is also extremely destructive to the environment.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture stated manure from 200 dairy cows produces as much nitrogen as the sewage from a community of 10,000 people.

When these cow manure lagoons flood or leak, they release harmful pesticides and bacteria into the environment and our waterways. This is due to the use of toxic fertilizers on fields, in addition to cows being pumped full with antibiotics.

Millions of acres of land are cultivated to raise livestock, greatly impacting habitats and biodiversity while emitting greenhouse gases. For example, prairies and grasslands used for farming in the Midwest are at risk, also according to Clear Water Action.

The food responsible for the

largest global water footprint is beef. It takes approximately 1,847 gallons of water to make one pound of beef.

Inside Climate News stated in 1960, the U.S. produced 16 billion pounds of beef, compared to the 27 billion pounds in 2018. The country is the largest beef manufacturers in the world.

Furthermore, our people consume it excessively, as the average American eats almost triple the global average at 57 pounds per capita.

Another climate concern is the growing population and how to feed the prospective 10 billion people who will be living on Earth by 2050. According to an article from World Animal Protection, “If left unchecked, agriculture is projected to produce 52% of global greenhouse gas emissions in the coming decades, 70% of which will come from meat and dairy.”

A report by the United Nations’ Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, which was written by more than 100 scientists, stated “better land use, less meat-intensive diets and eliminating food waste should be global priorities, crucial … to forestall a climate catastrophe.” The report also made it clear that diets high in meat have an increased carbon footprint.

If improving the global climate crisis is important to you, the livestock industry must be recognized as a large contributor.

Think about what you are willing to do about it.

Everyone knows about supply and demand. We vote with our dollars. Purchasing meat sends the message that you support the environmental damage caused during its production — and want it to continue.

While changes within the farming process should be made, such as more sustainable feeding methods for livestock and responsible manure management, the simplest and easiest way the average American can help is to consume less meat and dairy.

If you’re not ready to become vegetarian or vegan, supporting small, local farms can help reduce your carbon footprint.

However, cutting it out altogether is unequivocally the best way to fight against the climate crisis.

It is a privilege to try to eat sustainably. One of the only valid excuses for continuing to eat meat is living in areas, or dealing with financial situations, that don’t allow for accessible, affordable fresh fruits and vegetables. Sometimes, fast food is all people can manage.

Oat milk, a sustainable alternative to cow’s milk, for example, is about 2.5 times more expensive. Other sustainable products, such as locally farmed produce and meat alternatives, can be difficult to find — and are expensive as well.

Despite this, I believe paying marginally higher prices or going out of our way for more ecofriendly products is worthwhile. I am willing to spend a few extra dollars to know I am helping the environment and contributing to a worldwide shift toward sustainable diets.

If humanity hopes to make strides toward a healthier planet, everyone concerned about the state of our environment must do the same.

Illustration By Diana Ortega

OPINION-EDITORIAL

War on drugs: Front lines at your front door Lisa Hall

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resident Richard Nixon declared the war on drugs in 1971, which caused the federal government to intervene and enforce programs to educate people about the negative effects of drug abuse. The government also passed legislation for mandatory sentencing and no-knock warrants.

The drug war has continued in every presidency since the 1970s, regardless of societal feelings toward drug use.

In a 2016 article published in Harper's Magazine, former Nixon adviser John Erhlichman admitted that the war on drugs was began to incite anger toward "hippies and Blacks."

“You want to know what this was really all about," Ehrlichman said in an interview conducted prior to his death in 1999. " ... The anti-war left and Black people. … We knew we couldn’t make it illegal to be either against the war or Black, but by getting the public to associate the hippies with marijuana and Blacks with heroin, and then criminalizing both heavily, we could disrupt those communities. … Did we know we were lying about the drugs? Of course we did.”

During Ronald Reagan’s presidency, rates of incarceration increased due to his expansion of the war on drugs. The number of inmates convicted for nonviolent drug charges skyrocketed from 50,000 in 1980 to over 400,000 by the end of 1997, as stated by Drug Policy Alliance.

One of Reagan's most notable qualities was his stance against drugs. First Lady Nancy Reagan even coined the term “Just Say No” during her husband’s time in office. This phrase was meant to encourage teens to refuse drugs. Her campaign painted all users as criminals and grouped all substances, from alcohol to cocaine, as immoral.

The Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E) program seen at many elementary and high schools around the country uses the phrase “Just Say No” to dissuade students from substance use. That saying, and the D.A.R.E program as a whole, don’t actually work, as according to Scientific American as students involved in the program are just as likely to use drugs as those not involved.

During his 1992 presidential campaign, Bill Clinton advocated for treatment instead of incarceration, but didn’t take any action once he got into office. In fact, Clinton escalated the drug war by rejecting a recommendation from the United States Sentencing Commission to eliminate the disparity between crack and powder cocaine sentencing.

The unjust system is truly exposed when it is broken down.

People caught with powder cocaine and charged with possession and intent to sell would receive a mandatory five-year sentence — but only if they were caught with over 500 grams.

However, crack cocaine carried a mandatory 5-year sentence when the person charged is caught with only five grams, and on the first offense, according to The Sentencing Project.

To further examine this, take a look at the rates of arrests in certain communities; within these statistics, there’s a racial disparity according to U.S. News. The article reported 79% of people charged with crack cocaine possession in 2009 were Black.

Drug Policy Alliance, they were mostly for misdemeanors.

The U.S. government must have spent a large sum of money on these raids, and mostly for misdemeanors. If the funds used on domestic raids that led to misdemeanor charges were allocated to target international drug trafficking, the U.S. could have seen an actual decrease in rates of use.

It would be better to distribute capital to rehabilitation and counseling rather than paramilitary forces, thus allowing facilities to afford more staff, improve accommodations and extend treatments options for patients. If affordable and accessible choices were available to those struggling with addiction, substance abuse would subside. Overall, it would bring better options than incarceration for nonviolent drug charges.

The war on drugs is targeting Americans when it should be focused on stopping substances from entering the country in the first place.

It is well known President Donald Trump built the wall to fight against drug trafficking from neighboring countries, but it was constructed for another reason, as well: To keep immigrants out. In America, the drug war and racism are completely intertwined.

There was a huge win against the war on drugs in 2020, when Oregon voters approved Measure 110 and decriminalized all drug use. This legislation gives drug offenders the opportunity for rehabilitation or health services, rather than incarceration.

I believe the rate of drug use, addiction and incarceration for drug-related charges would decrease if federal law followed the same regulations as Measure 110.

Given the amount of money the U.S. has spent on the drug war, the results are not satisfactory. In five decades since the start of the Vietnam War, the stigma around recreational drug use has decreased, yet the time, money and energy spent on the war on drugs has only increased.

Drug use continues to rise, and so do incarceration rates. If Because crack cocaine is cheaper than Illustration By TONESHA YAZZIE incarceration is meant to act as a deterrent, why are drug powder cocaine, members of low-income use rates also climbing? The war on drugs isn’t getting the communities are more likely to use it over the powder form. U.S. anywhere; it is simply wasting untold amounts of money.

Furthermore, people of lesser socioeconomic status are more Recreational and medical use of marijuana is rapidly being likely to be comprised of People of Color. legalized around the U.S., with 21 states legalizing recreational As a result, a disportionately large number of Black people use since 2012. Marijuana is still illegal on the federal level, with are incarcerated for charges related to cocaine, even though rates mass incarceration rates for marijuana possession. of use are generally on the same level between communities.

The rates of arrests show a clear racial bias, as Black people This disparity was only recently addressed in 2010 with the are four times more likely than white people to be arrested on passage of the Fair Sentencing Act. To get a five-year sentence, possession charges nationally. those caught with crack cocaine need 28 grams — as opposed The war on drugs was never meant to control drug use or to five — in addition to the legislation eliminating the five-year trafficking. Rather, it was started to control minorities. Today, sentence mandate for first-time simple possession offenders. the war continues to target those communities and contributes to It is not the greatest revision, as there are still differences in racial disparity and mass incarceration in the U.S. Furthermore, punishment between various forms of the same drug. As long as it has created a dynamic of mistrust between citizens and law racism continues in the U.S., so will the war on drugs. enforcement that is proving to be extremely difficult to repair.

Americans have former President George W. Bush to thank Progress can only be made if our administration ever decides for the militarization of domestic drug law enforcement. By the to end this war and stop targeting its own citizens. end of Bush’s two terms, there were about 40,000 paramilitary SWAT raids on American citizens every year, and according to the

SEPT. 23- SEPT. 29, 2021 | THE LUMBERJACK

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A major disruption for college st Shay Maruna

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he effects of COVID-19 were felt across the globe, although many people are still dealing with widespread repercussions.

Quarantine proved to be both beneficial and harmful for many individuals, in a variety of ways. College students rapidly transitioned into remote settings, wherein work and learning were done from home.

For some students, this lockdown provided a space for reflection and contributed to considerable alterations in their educational paths. From smaller changes, like adding an emphasis or undergraduate certificate, to bigger adjustments such as switching from one major to another, many campuses have seen students adapt their plans.

There were many factors for students who modified their studies, but for some, the economy played a part. Shortly after the start of the pandemic, the United States entered a pandemic-induced recession. Pew Research Center concluded this sudden downturn caused unemployment figures nationwide to increase by 14 million and, within a few months after

government-mandated lockdowns, to reach 13%. Compared to the Great Recession of 2008 — when unemployment was recorded at 10.6% — the COVID-19 induced rate is 3% higher.

With the economy struggling, some students altered their plans due to job security concerns after graduations.

Many questioned whether their current majors would produce job opportunities in what CNBC called “one of the worst job markets” in over a decade. This type of environment led students to look into careers such as health care, public safety and teaching. When the economy is unsteady, these professions tend to be safer options.

Junior Ashley Lissy is a special and elementary education major. As one of the students who did not consider changing their major through the course of the pandemic, Lissy said she felt lucky. Meanwhile, she mentioned her comfortability with job security after graduation.

“I am a part of the Praxis program here, and it is set up to help us get job opportunities right after college,” Lissy said. “I know there is a teacher shortage, and I know a lot of teachers

Left & Right: Gateway Student Success Center provides academic advising for freshmen and any student transitioning between majors, Sept. 10. Jonah Graham | The Lumberjack

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tudents leads to Career changes quit due to having to work online. I do feel like [teaching] is COVID-proof because school is starting to open up.”

Yet, the economy is not the only factor contributing to the surge in academic shifts among college students. When classes moved to an online environment, some discovered they lacked true passion within their majors. This vast change in teaching methods opened some students’ eyes to different feelings regarding their courses, especially compared to earlier perceptions.

Junior Sanaa James is a biology major with a criminology minor. Entering her third year at NAU, James said she decided to focus more attention on her minor. She also explained that learning in an online format made retaining information a lot harder and, in the end, felt like she had to teach herself a lot of the material — resulting in a loss of passion.

“The pandemic opened my eyes to other ways I can contribute to our society, because I truly got to see how broken and misinformed

we are as a whole,” James said. “I haven’t decided if I will go to medical school after graduating, but seeing all the commotion and pushback surrounding mask requirements and the distribution of vaccines was really frustrating.”

Students like James made no changes to their degrees. While this group may have chosen to shift focus or add a minor, others made unusual leaps from one major to another. At NAU alone, enrollment centers saw shifts in their undergraduate programs.

According to enrollment statistics, the university currently offers 95 undergraduate programs, which are ranked by enrollment and experienced significant shifts after the start of COVID-19. While biomedical science remained at the top of the list, as it had since 2017, other programs such as nursing gained students.

Some deviation in enrollment rates may seem trivial, as shifts between programs occur frequently from year to year. However, fluctuations of around 100 students into or out

of a program are noteworthy, and programs like biomedical science have gone through considerable change compared to a year earlier.

Along with causing psychological setbacks, quarantine also facilitated conversations about mental health. Psychological sciences, which had not made the list of top undergraduate programs for over 14 years, jumped to fifth place in 2020.

In the wake of the pandemic, counselors and researchers were in high demand, so much so that careers rooted in the department are recognized as safe options for students.

Junior J’von Leong is one example of a student who changed majors after the pandemic struck. During his freshman year, Leong was a social work major. However, after his third semester in college, Leong made the decision to switch degree programs after being online for a semester — he is now a fitness and wellness major.

Leong said he hopes to enter a career in

sports psychology, which combines his love of sports with a way to help others and their mental health. He explained his new major is rooted in the regularity of mental health as a topic over the last year.

“Prepandemic I wanted to help out people in need,” Leong said. “After seeing the effects of the virus, I’ve found another way to do that. I believe that a lot of people began to realize how important mental health is during the peak of the pandemic because of the great amount of time we had to spend isolated from each other.”

Whether college students have shifted focus in their studies, or changed majors altogether, one thing can be said about the COVID-19 related change experienced among campuses in the U.S: There are a few side effects worth celebrating. With all the repercussions of this pandemic, college students across the country are making adjustments in order to feel comfortable with and excited for their studies.

“The pandemic opened my eyes to other ways I can contribute to our society, because I truly got to see how broken and misinformed we are as a whole.”

– Junior Sanaa James

Students commute between classes on the pedway, Sept. 10. Jonah Graham | The Lumberjack

SEPT. 23 - SEPT. 29, 2021 | THE LUMBERJACK

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The environmental impacts of Flagstaff’s growth Amarjyot Bining

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lagstaff has many tourist attractions — Arizona Snowbowl, Walnut Canyon National Monument and Lowell Observatory — that bring people in and out from all over the world. Over the past two years, a significant number of buildings and apartments have been constructed, which are inviting more people into a place already seen as overcrowded.

Flagstaff’s sustainability program allows community members to learn about the importance of having an eco-friendly environment and how everyone can make an impact in their own way. With so many people moving in and out of Flagstaff, the city’s ecosystem can face major issues.

Flagstaff currently has a population of over 77,000.

According to The Guardian, people sometimes move to northern Arizona, or perceive it as a convenient travel option, because of rising temperatures in cities such as Phoenix and Tucson. In the article, former Flagstaff mayor Coral Evans said although city council does not mind people having second homes in town, this demographic filled 25% of housing in 2018.

Clean energy advocate and lobbyist Amanda Ormond said she moved to Flagstaff six years ago due to the outdoor activities and quality of life.

“Many people moving out here evidently does have an effect on climate change, and the reason is for sustaining less water leading to drought,” Ormond said. “Obviously, there are incidents when there is too much water and there is flooding.

When people move out to Flagstaff, more houses are required; this means trees need to be cut down, and that will impact how cool the day will stay.”

Flagstaff’s population growth can also have an impact on climate change and global warming. More people means more cars are being used, intensifying climate change.

If the climate is drier, it risks forest health by potentially causing more wildfires and flood damage. For floods specifically, wildfires can counterintuitively burn root systems and subsequently increase water flows, as seen over the summer with flooding down the Museum Fire burn scar.

The more fires and floods happen, the more ecosystems are at risk. Climate also influences a range of conditions in the Ponderosa pine ecosystem of the Coconino National Forest, which, according to the United States Department of Agriculture and referenced in the city’s regional plan, may be particularly vulnerable to the warmer and drier climate of the future.

After discussing how the community can contribute toward and maintain an eco-friendly environment, Ormond said conserving energy is important. She explained individuals should support climate adaptation plans and goals.

Senior Courtland Kaye said Flagstaff cannot grow much beyond its current size due to state and federal protections on the surrounding land. He labeled this as essential because, in the future, the goal is to hold environmental impacts to the same standards as now. Kaye said he believes tourism causes some direct harm to forests, but by helping people learn to love the forests, tourism is indirectly good.

“Of course there is an impact on the environment, but I believe that’s OK,” Kaye said. “If we want people to care about natural resources, they must be allowed to hike, camp, fish and even live near the forests. If everything were walled off, nobody would care what happens to a place they’ve never seen.”

The Flagstaff Vulnerability document states winter recreation and tourists face high climate change vulnerability, although summer tourism is documented as low risk. Summer months, however, can lead to warmer and drier seasons at other times of year — a direct impact of climate change.

Lawrence Kings has lived in Flagstaff full time for a year, and said he is an avid mountain biker. Kings explained he is pleasantly surprised with how well trail systems are maintained around town.

“I think Flagstaff is unique because it provides so many trails and options so the environment stays in pretty good shape,” Kings said. “If this wasn’t available, people would go out and do different things, and that’s where much of the destruction comes from. But since the [Flagstaff Urban Trail System] system has a number of trail systems that everyone can enjoy, individuals tend to stick to these trails and not cause a lot of damage.”

Flagstaff Trails Initiative involves a range of pathways and networks that can be available and accessible for all individuals.

According to the city of Flagstaff’s website, it aims to improve the quality and connectivity of outdoor recreation, while also providing a sustainable trail system that balances the demand for recreation with the community’s vision of conservation, development and health.

Ultimately, the more people travel to and live in Flagstaff, the more the ecosystem will be affected­­— at least as a general principle. However, it is important for locals to try to help, keep up to date with the adaptation plans and attempt to learn about issues with the ecosystem. The environment can suffer at the hands of more people, but with responsibility, Flagstaff can keep its tourist-based nature.

Left: A climate change sign is posted outside a Flagstaff home, Sept. 17. Center: A truck with a U-Haul trailer drives down South Milton Road, Sept. 17. Right: A construction project in Flagstaff is underway, Sept. 17. Madison Easton | The Lumberjack

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SEPT. 23 - SEPT. 29, 2021 | THE LUMBERJACK

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‘Shang-Chi’ is just what the MCU has been waiting for

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elatively unknown stuntman Simu Liu posted on Twitter, “OK @Marvel, are we gonna talk or what #ShangChi,” on Dec. 3, 2018.

Now, more than two years later, Liu is taking his place among Marvel Cinematic Universe greats including Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans and Chris Hemsworth by playing the titular hero in the MCU’s latest offering, “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings.” While MCU chief creative officer Kevin Feige KODY may deny that Liu’s tweet had any effect on the casting MALOUF process, one thing is clear: Marvel hired the right man for the job.

WRITER The film was directed by Destin Daniel Cretton and written by Cretton, Dave Callaham and Andrew Lanham. It’s Marvel’s first foray into the martial arts subgenre, and it went smoothly. The action was crisp and punchy — no pun intended — the fight choreography was a step up from a lot of MCU films and the visual effects were remarkable, which is saying something for a Marvel movie.

The cast of “Shang-Chi” carried a lot of weight, and everyone did their share of lifting. Liu shined as the martial arts master as he fully embodied his role and once again proved Marvel’s knack for pitch-perfect casting. He put his stunt person and martial arts background to great use. His martial arts prowess allowed Cretton to place the focus on his lead during all fight scenes, giving the audience an up-close and personal experience with their hero instead of resorting to wide shots of stunt doubles punching each other.

Cretton took the martial arts genre seriously, flashing his affinity for such moments without getting us bogged down in the nitty-gritty. Not since “Captain America: The Winter Soldier” have we seen polished and intricate fights in the MCU, but “Shang-Chi” takes it to another level. The character is referred to as “the master of kung-fu” in Marvel comics, and his film counterpart did not disappoint. The fights were tight and fluid, invoking a sense of true artistry when two characters came to blows.

Clearly, Marvel knows the game and the players. Casting kung fu movie legends like Tony Leung (The Grandmaster) and Michelle Yeoh (Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon), and hiring Cretton to direct is all the evidence needed to know that Marvel is committed to the kung fu subgenre. Leung gave a wonderfully understated performance as the real “Mandarin” Xu Wenwu, and Yeoh’s training sequence with Shang-Chi was one of the best choreographed and acted pieces of the entire picture.

Awkwafina predictably provided some comic relief as Katy. Her character was the most “Marvel” thing about the movie, bringing that patented lighthearted tone while also hitting some impressive emotional beats. Her character felt most formulaic in “Shang-Chi,” but also held the whole thing together. The relationship between Katy and Shang-Chi felt real and immediately allowed us to relate to both characters, despite knowing virtually nothing about them.

Continue reading jackcentral.org

Sept. 13-19: The MET Gala and the Emmys Top five stories of the week: 1. The annual MET Gala took place Monday, Sept. 13 at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. This New releases: year’s theme was “In America: A Lexicon of Fashion,” and celebrities who were invited didn’t fail to show off their best “MONTERO” by Lil Nas X (debut album) interpretations.

2. Singer Elton John postponed his Farewell Yellow “DIE4U” by Bring Me the Horizon (single) Brick Road Tour in Europe and the United Kingdom due to “Who’s In Your Head” by The Jonas Brothers (single) a hip injury. He announced the delay in an Instagram post on Sept. 15.

3. Comedian Norm Macdonald, who was known for “Altar” by Kehlani (single) hosting the “Weekend Update” segment on “Saturday Night Live,” died at the age of 61 on Sept. 14.

“Sex Education” Season 3 (Netflix original series) 4. E! News reported on Sept. 14 that rapper Macklemore and his wife Tricia Davis had their third child. The news was “Cry Macho” (in theaters) announced via Davis’s Instagram.

5. Deadline Hollywood reported director Denis “Blue Bayou” (in theaters) Villeneuve’s upcoming reboot of the film “Dune” has made over $8 million during the first two days at the international “The Eyes of Tammy Faye” (in select theaters) box office. The production is set to arrive in theaters in the U.S. on Oct. 22 and stars actors Timothée Chalamet, “Copshop” (in theaters) Zendaya, Oscar Isaac and Jason Momoa, just to name a few.

Katelyn Rodriguez

Top 15 charting songs: 1. “Way 2 Sexy” by Drake featuring Future and

Young Thug 2. “Girls Want Girls” by Drake featuring Lil Baby 3. “Fair Trade” by Drake featuring Travis Scott 4. “Champagne Poetry” by Drake 5. “Knife Talk” by Drake featuring 21 Savage and

Project Pat 6. “Stay” by The Kid LAROI featuring Justin Bieber 7. “In the Bible” by Drake featuring Lil Durk and Giveon 8. “Papi’s Home” by Drake 9. “TSU” by Drake 10. “Love All” by Drake featuring Jay-Z 11. “No Friends In The Industry” by Drake 12. “N 2 Deep” by Drake featuring Future 13. “Bad Habits” by Ed Sheeran 14. “Pipe Down” by Drake 15. “Good 4 U” by Olivia Rodrigo Song data from Billboard’s The Hot 100 Chart

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Award show update: Emmy Awards Outstanding comedy series: “Ted Lasso” (Apple TV+) Outstanding lead actor in a comedy series: Jason

Sudeikis as Ted Lasso (“Ted Lasso”) Outstanding lead actress in a comedy series: Jean

Smart as Deborah Vance (Hacks) Outstanding drama series: “The Crown” (Netflix) Outstanding lead actor in a drama series: Josh

O’Connor as Prince Charles (“The Crown”) Outstanding lead actress in a drama series: Olivia

Colman as Queen Elizabeth II (“The Crown”) Outstanding limited or anthology series: “The

Queen’s Gambit” (Netflix) Outstanding lead actor in a limited or anthology series or movie: Ewan McGregor as Halston (“Halston”) Outstanding lead actress in a limited or anthology series or movie: Kate Winslet as Mare Sheehan (“The Mare of Easttown”) A complete list of Emmy Awards winners can be found on its website.

CULTURE

NAU dances further into Hispanic Heritage Month Aidan Schonbrun

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n a room decorated with flags from Hispanic countries, Latin music blared while the rhythmic sounds of congas and bongos played in the background. Bright colors decorated the tables and walls, and people inside were hugging and dancing with one another in a celebration of Hispanic culture.

Hispanic Heritage Month began Sept. 15 and ends Oct. 15. It recognizes the influence of Hispanic culture on the United States through its history, traditions and achievements.

One of the first in-person events on campus during this month of celebration was the Noche de Baile Latin Dance Night. On Sept. 16 in the International Pavilion, students from all backgrounds and cultures came together to learn the styles of Latin dancing: Salsa, bachata, cha cha and merengue among them.

The event provided a chance for Hispanic and Latin communities to feel more at home, while also presenting an opportunity for those unfamiliar with the dances to take part in celebrating Hispanic culture.

Vidal Mendoza, assistant director of Hispanic and Latinx initiatives at the Office of Inclusion, explained Latin dancing holds an important role in Hispanic culture.

“The Latin Dance is a time of celebration [of ] the Hispanic, Latina-o-x culture with music and dance,” Mendoza said, “It brings friends, family and chosen family together and connects to their roots with cultural music and dance.”

Mendoza explained different kinds of Latin dancing come from native roots, such as the Aztecs and Incas, among others. She said the dances have continued to evolve since the 16th century, when explorers from Spain and Portugal returned from their expeditions with tales of the native people’s movements.

Ryan Ortiz, the musician playing the conga and bongos, participated in the event to teach people Latin dancing.

Ortiz, a student and dancer of 16 years, wants to start a salsa club to show students the dance.

“Salsa is a fun dance; [it’s] like learning a language,” Ortiz said.

He made sure to help people understand the beats of salsa by comparing the timing to well known songs, such as “We Will Rock You” by Queen. Volunteers jumped in as he started his lessons, ready to learn the dances and culture behind them.

Ortiz also explained the cultural differences between places for each of the dances. He said he likes to learn the historical aspects of each of the dances, along with talking to peers and other interested parties about them.

Graduate student McKenzie McLoughlin said she attended the event because of the lack of opportunities to dance to Latin music in Flagstaff. McLoughlin is one-half Guatemalan, and she added the evening was a great opportunity to listen to Latin music on campus.

“It is important to elevate the importance of the event. … I hope it happens more than just this month,” McLoughlin said.

For some, Noche de Baile was a way to experience Latin dancing on campus after growing up with it. Senior Frank Palacio enjoyed this art as a child, and described it as a way to express himself differently.

“I do not get to see too much Hispanic culture on campus,” Palacio said. “This is a time to meet each other in t h e

community and connect.”

For those who are not part of these cultures, the night was an important chance to experience other heritages. Palacio encouraged others to get out and explore more cultural traditions.

“I hope others will hear, listen and learn about our culture,” Palacio said.

Leadership, Engagement, Activity and Peer Mentoring (LEAP) members were at the event to show support and encourage attendees to get up and get involved in the dances. They also informed less experienced students about these styles of dance.

Noche de Baile Latin Dance Night was an opportunity for students to experience Latin culture, as well as gain a further understanding of the different forms of dance.

The event allowed NAU, as well as the Flagstaff community, to start Hispanic Heritage Month with a celebration.

“The Latin Dance is a time of celebration [of] the hispanic, Latina-o-x culture with music and dance. it brings friends, family and chosen family together and connects to their roots with cultural music and dance.”

– Vidal Mendoza, assistant director of Hispanic and Latina-o-x initiatives at the Office of inclusion

Illustration By Diana Ortega

SEPT. 23 2021 – SEPT. 29, 2021 | THE LUMBERJACK

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Pickin’ in the Pines brings its bluegra

Left: The crowd gathers at Pepsi Amphitheater, Sept. 17. Right: Attendees recieved booklets detailing available events and descriptions of performances, Sept. 17. Ash Lohmann | The Lumberjack

Ash Lohmann

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A couple dances to Fireside Collective’s music at Pickin’ in the Pines bluegrass music festival at Fort Tuthill’s Pepsi Amphitheater, Sept. 17. Ash Lohmann | The Lumberjack

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hen one hears the playing of a fiddle and the picking of a banjo coming from Flagstaff’s Ponderosa pine forest, it can only mean one thing: Pickin’ in the Pines is back. After 2020’s cancellation of the famous bluegrass music festival, bands and fans from all over the country gathered at Fort Tuthill’s Pepsi Amphitheater once again for a weekend of dancing, fun and top-tier bluegrass music.

Since 2006, Pickin’ in the Pines has been going strong with annual festivities that draw crowds from near and far. However, due to COVID-19, the event was forced into a twoyear hiatus before returning with full steam Sept. 19. Anyone who had tickets for the 2020 festival could gain entrance to this year’s events, according to the award-winning festival’s website.

Hosted by Flagstaff Friends of Traditional Music, Pickin’ in the Pines offers a host of activities for attendees to enjoy alongside the

main-stage bluegrass lineup. Food, drinks, dancing, vendors and even intimate workshops taught by the performing bands were all enjoyed at the festival.

In their workshop session, Durango, Colorado trio Stillhouse Junkies discussed songwriting methods and techniques they employ while performing to keep themselves and their audience engaged. Guitarist and vocalist Fred Kosak explained how the group stopped using setlists for their shows in order to keep things interesting and in tune with the everchanging atmosphere. Kosak said even though it can be intimidating to do so, he simply directs traffic while his talented band members keep the good times rolling.

“If you rely too much on the sheet in front of you, you can miss some organic opportunities that arise in the song,” Kosak said.

Kosak listed the range of genres Stillhouse Junkies encapsulates. From composed and classical elements, to swing and traditional bluegrass, the trio’s style is very much its own — what it calls progressive American roots. He

CULTURE

ass tunes and fun back to Flagstaff

Left: The Sonoran Dogs perform at Fort Tuthill’s Pepsi Amphitheater, Sept. 17. Right: Stillhouse Junkies play at their workshop at Fort Tuthill, Sept. 17. Ash Lohmann | The Lumberjack

described how each musician brings unique qualities to their music.

“We’ve all had to push ourselves on our individual instruments to fill in areas of each arrangement, elevate our rhythm playing and hopefully create a sound that is more than the sum of its parts,” Kosak said.

For Stillhouse Junkies, Pickin’ in the Pines is just the beginning of three weeks of fun, as Kosak explained the ensemble is embarking on a cross-country tour in celebration of their most recent album, “Calamity.” The trio will finish off its tour as showcase artists at the International Bluegrass Music Association’s World of Bluegrass festival in Raleigh, North Carolina, where it has been nominated for a Momentum Band of the Year award.

Closer to home, Nolan McKelvey & Muskellunge is a Flagstaff-based bluegrass band.

Nolan McKelvey explained while the group travels frequently, Flagstaff is where it all started, and the town also serves as the inspiration behind a lot of his songwriting.

“Our band plays my original songs, and I

often reference local landmarks and topics in my songwriting,” McKelvey said. “I’ve been told we represent the vibe of Flagstaff for some people.”

After the festival’s absence last year, McKelvey said the group was eager to return to Pickin’ in the Pines.

“The lineup is incredible,” McKelvey said.

“The fact that it’s outdoors [and] in the cool open air of Flagstaff at this time of year sounds just about perfect. The promoters are working hard to put the show on in a safe manner, and I’m thankful for their efforts. It’s been a long wait, and we are all excited to perform again.”

Unlike McKelvey & Muskellunge, North Carolina group Fireside Collective made its Arizona debut at Pickin’ in the Pines on Sept.

17. Mandolin player and vocalist Jesse Laquinto said the members of Fireside Collective were surprised by Flagstaff’s beauty and the different atmosphere of the pines compared to when they landed in Phoenix.

Laquinto and guitarist Joe Cicero explained that Pickin’ in the Pines had been on

“We’re Just so stoked we could be here.”

– Jesse laquinto, Fireside collective guitarist Fireside Collective’s bucket list, and the group was thrilled to be part of the lineup.

“We’re just so stoked we could be here,” Laquinto said. “We talked to the promoter in Raleigh at the International Bluegrass Music Association convention that they do and he was like, ‘We need to get you guys out to Arizona.’

So, he’s the one who made it happen.”

Whether they were from near or far, bands said they were just as excited to perform at Pickin’ in the Pines as fans were to attend the bluegrass music festival, especially after waiting two years since the last one. The event that spanned from Sept. 17 to 19 was one for the books, and bluegrass bands now bid Pepsi Amphitheater a fond ‘until next year.’

“If you rely too much on the sheet in front of you, you can miss some of the organic opportunities that arise in the song” – Fred Kosak, Stillhouse Junkies SEPT. 23 2021 – SEPT. 29, 2021 | THE LUMBERJACK

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Top: The NAU Photo Club president, Anthony Cataldo, directs other club members at Lover’s Knoll during the club’s trip to Sedona, Sept. 18. The club broke up into two groups — ­ portrait and landscape — to take photos of what they were most interested in. Bottom: The portrait photographers pose for a picture at Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Village during NAU Photo Club’s trip to Sedona, Sept. 18. This was the club’s first trip since 2019. Megan Ford-Fyffe | The Lumberjack

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NAU Photo Club captures Sedona, Ariz.

Top: Jen Litt reviews the photos on her camera at Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Village during NAU Photo Club’s trip to Sedona, Sept. 18. Bottom: Allyson Coy sits on the ground to take landscape photos at Lover’s Knoll during the NAU Photo Club’s trip to Sedona, Sept. 18. The group of 21 gathered here just before it began to rain. Megan Ford-Fyffe | The Lumberjack

SEPT. 23 2021 – SEPT. 29, 2021 | THE LUMBERJACK

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BLUE AND GOLD IN ACTION College football conferences are crumbling

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ith recent news about the Big 12 potentially losing two of its biggest brands, it has become impossible to ignore the growing power of the Southeastern Conference (SEC) in college football. In a move that shook the college football world, Oklahoma and Texas officially accepted invitations to join the SEC on July 30, WILL effective July 1, 2025. This move signals HOPKINS the end of the Big 12 as a traditional ASSISTANT SPORTS power conference in college football.

EDITOR Despite the additions of BYU, Houston, UCF and Cincinnati, these teams don’t represent the powers that Oklahoma and Texas do. With this massive change in college football, it is time to acknowledge the Power Five conference that finds itself in the worst position.

Meanwhile, it’s no secret: The PAC-12 has the weakest resume of any of the Power Five conferences, including the Big 12. Its last trip to the College Football Playoff was courtesy of the Washington Huskies in 2017, and the only other appearance came in the inaugural playoff for the Oregon Ducks.

The PAC-12 has long been the laughingstock of the Power Five and, with the changes in the landscape, it’s quite possible now is do or die time for the conference — especially with the way this season started. Oregon’s upset of Ohio State in Week Two followed UCLA’s victory over LSU in Week One, and both wins helped catapult the two teams up the standings. However, with UCLA’s loss last weekend, the window may be closing on the conference.

If the conference fails to return to the College Football Playoff this year, some of its bigger brands may question the viability of ever making it back. USC has long struggled to capitalize on the size of its brand, but if Texas wanting to leave the Big 12 after years of disappointment is any indication of what a brand can do for a school, the Trojans may be ready to high-tail it to a conference that will allow them to succeed.

Oregon may also be able to capitalize on the size of its fan base and brand in order to give itself a better opportunity to reach playoff success. With those two schools out, the PAC-12 would likely struggle to remain relevant in the college football landscape. Teams like Washington, ASU and Utah do not have the historic success to secure a playoff spot on their own, showing just how crucial this year is for the conference.

RECENT GAME SCORES SEPt. 16: NAU Volleyball vs New Mexico FINAL - (W) NAU 3 - UNM 1 sept. 17: NAU Soccer vs Arizona Christian FINAL - (W) NAU 6 - ACU 0 SEPt. 18: NAU Volleyball @ New Mexico FINAL - (L) NAU 1 - UNM 3 SEPt. 18: NAU Football @ UArizona FINAL - (W) NAU 21 - UA 19 SEPt. 19: NAU Soccer @ Dixie State FINAL - (W) NAU 2 - DSU 0

UPCOMING GAMES NAU Volleyball vs Idaho, Thursday, Sept. 23, 6:30 p.m.

NAU Soccer vs Montana, Friday, Sept. 24, 7 p.m.

NAU Volleyball vs Eastern Washington, Saturday, Sept. 25, 12 p.m.

NAU Football @ Northern Colorado, Saturday, Sept. 25, 12 p.m.

NAU Soccer vs Northern Colorado, Sunday, Sept. 26, 1 p.m.

NAU football runs out of the locker room as a team in the game against Sam Houston State University, Sept. 2. NAU lost 4216. Jonah Graham | The Lumberjack

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SPORTS

NAU beats UArizona for the first time since 1932 in 21-19 upset Brenden Martin

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n the middle of NAU’s longest road trip in over a decade, the Lumberjacks took I-17 and I-10 down to Tucson to take on the Arizona Wildcats. Both teams came in looking for their first win of the season on Sept. 18. That’s exactly what NAU got, with a groundbreaking 21-19 win.

UArizona’s stretch of losses continues to run longer than just this year, however, as the team went 0-5 last season and finished the 2019 season with seven consecutive losses. The Wildcats last experienced the taste of victory against Colorado in a 35-30 shootout on Oct. 5, 2019.

The historic rivalry between these two Arizona schools runs deep. The Wildcats were 15-1 all time against the Lumberjacks, with the most recent game coming on Sept 7, 2019, when they won 65-41. That victory started a four-game win streak for UArizona.

During the first half, rainy weather blew in and out, turning this matchup into a defensive battle. Both teams had three-and-outs on their first drives. NAU freshman quarterback Jeff Widener, fresh off his first career start last week, once again opened for the Lumberjacks. With Keondre Wudtee still out with the ankle injury he sustained against Sam Houston State, the expectation was that Widener would once again play a majority of the game. However, Widener’s interception showed turnovers were once again an issue.

UArizona got off to a quick start in the first quarter thanks to a 31-yard field goal by senior Lucas Havrisik and a touchdown pass from freshman quarterback Will Plummer to sophomore wide receiver Boobie Curry.

After another Havrisik field goal, this time from 24 yards, NAU made the surprising move to bench Widener in favor of freshman quarterback RJ Martinez. on its first drive of the second quarter. The true freshman out of Austin, Texas had a record-setting career at Westwood High School. In his first career appearance, Martinez completed 11-of-16 passes for 88 yards, a touchdown and an interception. That interception in the end zone was picked off by sophomore cornerback Christian RolandWallace on a pass intended for sophomore wide receiver Hendrix Johnson.

The freshman quarterback also showed his prowess in the run game by finishing with 43 yards on only six attempts.

“We had it scheduled to put him in in the second quarter,” NAU head coach Chris Ball said. “We put him in there right when we planned to put him in there.”

The move came after Widener had thrown four passes with one completion and an interception, but it proved to be the right choice in the end.

Martinez showed a lot of promise in his first outing, while also committing some mistakes expected of a freshman thrown into a game. As the game progressed, Martinez learned how to keep his body safe, especially on the run. His first big play was an 18-yard run that culminated in a forced fumble by senior linebacker Anthony Pandy that was recovered by NAU freshman running back Kevin Daniels.

With a new quarterback and a 13-point deficit, NAU looked to have already lost momentum halfway into the second quarter.

NAU celebrates after defeating UArizona 21-19, Sept. 18. Photo courtesy of NAU Athletics

That all changed with 1:28 left in the half when Plummer, deep in his team’s territory, threw the ball right at freshman defensive back Brady Shough, who returned it 28 yards for a touchdown.

“I didn’t do anything special,” Shough said about the play.

“No one was doing anything special. I knew what my keys were. … I just made a play, simple as that.”

Daniels was NAU’s main option on the ground, rushing for a career-high 109 yards on 27 attempts. In addition to scoring a 12-yard touchdown run in the third quarter, graduate student Luis Aguilar’s PAT putting NAU ahead 14-13.

During the halftime break, Ball and offensive coordinator Aaron Pflugrad discussed who to put behind center to start the second half. Ball said Pflugrad stuck with the plan to bring in Martinez, and said he gave NAU the best chance to win.

“When Keondre [Wudtee] went down I was asked to step up, have a bigger role on the team,” Martinez said. “I got some second-team reps. Coming into this game I got some first- and second-team reps.”

Martinez’s performance now begs the question of what NAU’s quarterback situation looks like going forward. With the move to substitute Martinez being as calculated as it was, what could the Lumberjacks pull next? Ball remained tight-lipped on that issue — for now.

Coming out of halftime, the momentum continued to swing rapidly for the Lumberjacks due, in large part, to mental mistakes from the Wildcats. On UArizona’s first drive, freshman running back Jalen John ran for 37 yards. However, that possession ended on another UArizona turnover — this time on downs — to give the ball back to NAU. Redshirt senior defensive lineman Mo Diallo was penalized and ejected for a hard hit on Martinez. He wouldn’t be the only Wildcat to hit the showers early; about six minutes after Diallo’s ejection, sophomore safety Jaxen Turner was also dealt a massive targeting call that sent flags flying everywhere from referees.

“It’s hard to figure out,” Ball said about the targeting penalty that has played a role in all three of NAU’s games so far. “Harrison [Beemiller] experienced that in the first week we played.”

The targeting call allowed NAU to advance 15 yards, and it also left the Wildcat defense thin in the front and back. Daniels only needed three rushes to give NAU its first lead of the season.

UArizona could not find a way to close out its drive until it

was too late. In the end, turnovers continued to plague the team when Plummer threw another interception, this time caught by freshman defensive back Devontae Ingram, who managed to keep a foot in bounds and give the Lumberjacks possession.

After five minutes, 10 plays and 60 yards, NAU extended its lead when Martinez connected on his first collegiate touchdown pass — a 9-yard completion to Johnson. With the Lumberjacks leading 21-13, more back-and-forth possessions ensued. The Wildcats had four and a half minutes to score eight points and tie the game.

UArizona head coach Jedd Fisch elected to take a new approach, as well, by putting sophomore quarterback Jordan McCloud in during the fourth quarter. As quarterback for most of the game, Plummer went 19-for-34 with 191 yards, a touchdown pass and two interceptions.

Much like Martinez was for NAU, McCloud provided a huge spark for the Wildcats. After his first pass attempt was broken up by sophomore defensive back Jacob Mpungi, he completed his next six attempts and ended with a 3-yard touchdown pass to Curry. Now, the score was 21-19.

The Wildcats needed to convert a two-point conversion in order to tie the game and, on the pivotal play, McCloud’a pass was well short of the intended receiver. An onside kick recovered

by NAU wide receiver Jamal Glaspie and a first down run from Daniels — a carry that put him over 100 yards rushing — sealed the deal on a historic victory. The only other time NAU beat UArizona was Oct. 29, 1932, when the Lumberjacks won by a score of 7-6 in Phoenix, despite being the fewest number of combined points ever scored in this rivalry’s history.

NAU, now 1-2, will look to ride the momentum from this win and reach .500 against Northern Colorado, which fell to 1-2 after a loss to Lamar on Saturday. The two will meet for their first conference game of the season next Saturday at noon in Greeley, Colorado. Meanwhile, UArizona’s losing streak reached 15 games, and its next game will not be easy — the Wildcats open their PAC-12 schedule against the No. 3-ranked Oregon at 7:30 p.m. Sept. 25 at Autzen Stadium in Eugene, Oregon.

SEPT. 23 - SEPT. 29, 2020 | THE LUMBERJACK

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SPORTS

After last season’s canceled title match, NAU so Brenden Martin

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ne headline rang through the ears and burned through the eyes of NAU soccer players, coaches and fans on the night of April 17: “Big Sky Soccer Championship Match Canceled Due to COVID-19 Protocols; Montana to Advance to NCAA Tournament.”

In a matter of four paragraphs released by the Big Sky Conference, NAU’s title run suddenly went up in flames and crumbled into ashes.

NAU soccer finished the spring 2021 regular season with a record of 6-2-1, a Big Sky Southeast Division title and a 1-0 victory over the University of Idaho Vandals in the semifinals. The Lumberjacks were set to play the University of Montana Grizzlies, who finished the season 8-1, won the Big Sky Northwest Division and were fresh off an overtime victory, 2-1, over Northern Colorado in their semifinal match. Because NAU and Montana did not play each other in the regular season — there was condensed scheduling and traveling amid

the COVID-19 pandemic — this would have been their first match since Oct. 11, 2019. The key words being “would have.”

After much deliberation and discussion about whether the championship match would be played the following day, the Big Sky Conference made the decision to cancel the game. From there on, the story gets even more brutal for NAU soccer. With the tournament championship game unplayed, no winner could be crowned and sent to represent the Big Sky Conference in the NCAA Division I Women’s Soccer Championship Tournament in North Carolina in 12 days. A hard decision was needed.

Upon discussion within the Big Sky’s Olympic Sports Committee, Montana was deemed conference champions, as the title match was officially declared a no-contest.

However, NAU showed last season that it was a team to beat and one worthy of winning a conference title.

Senior forward Madison Montgomery, who led the team with nine goals in as many

NAU soccer head coach Kylie Louw. | Photo courtesy of NAU Athletics

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games last season, recounted her initial thoughts about what transpired.

“I think all of us kind of had a feeling,” Montgomery said about the situation and the potential of the championship game being canceled. “We had just gotten to the field to train. [Head coach Kylie Louw] got a call and basically said that we had to go back and isolate in our hotel room. We were all in our rooms, and I was sitting on the bed when [Louw] asked to Zoom us. I remember feeling very crushed and defeated.”

The following Monday, April 19, Montana learned its opponent for the first round of the NCAA Tournament: The South Carolina Gamecocks. They eventually defeated the Grizzlies 1-0.

The taste of Big Sky victory has eluded NAU for some time. The Lumberjacks have yet to win the conference tournament since 2014, when the team finished 12-6-4 overall and 5-23 within the conference itself. Despite winning the regular season conference title with a 126-2 record, Montana’s season ended when No. 5-seeded Idaho State upset the No.1-seeded Grizzlies in the semifinals, 2-1. That conference tournament happened to take place in Missoula, Montana — the Grizzlies’ home — as well.

The Lumberjacks came into that tournament as the No. 3 seed and, despite moving on to the NCAA Tournament, eventually lost to ASU by a score of 4-2.

The chance to play against big schools, like South Carolina and ASU, does not come often.

Furthermore, not getting the opportunity to compete for a conference tournament title after earning your way there is certainly hard. While NAU soccer had to deal with the emotions of not playing for this championship, the team also faced the fact that it was now operating under COVID-19 protocols.

With undisclosed personnel testing positive for COVID-19, the team had to be separated at a time when they needed each other most.

Alexander Morgan, a student manager who traveled with the team for the tournament, had to make sure the players, coaches and staff got home safely from the canceled match in Ogden, Utah.

“Once [Louw] got the news, she shared it with all us coaches and staff,” Morgan said.

“The faces in the room and the demeanor totally changed. The first words that came out of anyone’s mouth were ‘How do we tell the players, and what do we do now?’”

In a situation as dramatic and fast-paced as

“You need to have a great goalkeeper and then, an even better goalkeeper.

They need to make each other better during training.”

– NAU Soccer Head Coach Kylie Louw

this was, it would be easy for things to unravel and get out of hand. However, because of these protocols, the team was able to make it back to Flagstaff — and safely — albeit through different means. In order for infected personnel to travel separately from the remainder of the team, testing and contract tracing were commenced.

“We had to find a car, we had to find buses, we had to find vans — whatever we could in order to make it as safe as possible,’’ Morgan said regarding the logistics of traveling the 9-hour distance from Weber State to NAU. Starting a week previously and going until the day before the scheduled championship game, players were tested for COVID-19 on a daily basis.

Now, five months removed from the chaos at the end of the Big Sky Tournament, NAU is determined to redeem itself and show the conference that if everything went as planned, it would be looking to defend the title. As soon as this season’s schedule was released in July, however, it was clear the Lumberjacks were going into an uphill battle.

The season started with a two-game road trip against Utah State and Utah Valley. Both squads had a combined record of 18-9-5 last season. Additionally, the latter of the two teams won the Western Athletic Conference Championship in Phoenix and defeated No. 25-ranked Memphis in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. NAU lost both games 2-1, with the Utah Valley matchup going to overtime.

Following those defeats, the Lumberjacks

SPORTS

occer gears up for a new chance against Montana Senior forward Madison Montgomery (6) attempts a shot against GCU at the Max Spilsbury Field at Lumberjack Stadium, Sept. 3. GCU defeated NAU 3-0. Brian Burke | The Lumberjack

stayed on the road for a PAC-12 swing against UArizona and Oregon. Both competitions ended with the same result: NAU allowing double the goals it scored.

Of NAU’s first seven games, only one was at home in Lumberjack Stadium. Oddly enough, it remains the only scoreless outing for the Lumberjacks: A 3-0 loss to GCU at the start of the month. That defeat seemed to affect the team’s morale the most, losing with the sixth-largest crowd ever recorded in Lumberjack Stadium.

Afterward, NAU got back on the road for another pair of tough matches against New Mexico and Denver. The defense looked

as if it fell apart in those contests, with both competitions ending in 6-2 losses. Even though NAU started with a record of 0-7, Louw said the season has been great.

“If I look at our performances, there’s one or two games I’d like to take back for sure, but we are scoring in every single game besides GCU,” Louw said. “We’re scoring against PAC12 teams, [and] we’re scoring against big-name teams.”

NAU hasn’t started a season this poorly since 2011, when the Lumberjacks lost their first six matches and ended 3-9-7.

A point of curiosity thus far in the season is the continued use of two goalkeepers: Freshmen

Natalie Manzo and Trinity Cocoran. Each goalie has seen comparable playing time, and they have consistently been substituted between halves.

After goalkeeper Taryn Benham graduated last year and enrolled at Colorado College as a graduate transfer, Louw and the coaching staff have been doing their due diligence to find the successor to NAU’s all-time shutout leader.

“You need to have a great goalkeeper and then an even better goalkeeper,” Louw said about training and playing both of them. “They need to make each other better during training.”

In addition to the two freshmen, NAU also has sophomore goalkeeper Olivia Hein

on the roster. However, Hein has yet to appear this season due to an injury preventing her from training and conditioning. On the NAU Athletics show “Timber Talk,” Louw said Hein should return in the coming weeks.

NAU soccer won its first matchup in the eighth game of the season, beating Arizona Christian University 6-0. Manzo played the entirety of the match and earned her first career shutout with three saves.

The Lumberjacks host Montana, the defending Big Sky Champions, on Sept. 24 at 7 p.m. Admission is free to those with an NAU ID. The game will also be livestreamed on ESPN+.

SEPT. 23 - SEPT. 29, 2020 | THE LUMBERJACK

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