PRESERVING SCHULTZ MEADOW PAGES 14-15
THE LUMBER JACK SEPT. 24, 2020 – SEPT. 30, 2020
Online at JackCentral.org
From the Editor
T
he other day I found myself telling my friend that each day feels the same to me. I kept going on about how all I do is go to my job and attend my classes. While I’m grateful to be a student employee, work gets overwhelming at times, and some days I wish I could just live without needing a job. After pondering over the idea of things always being the same, I realized I was being ungrateful for the things I do have: a job, an education and the health of my friends and family. Even though adjusting to the pandemic has become our new normal, I’m still afraid of what will happen next. It’s definitely tricky to stay positive when it seems like the news gets more negative each day. While I can just sit here and complain about all the ways the pandemic has affected me negatively, it’s important to remember that each day is an opportunity to experience something positive. Whether we like it or not, I think the pandemic has created a lesson for everyone. For me, it’s to try and find the small things that create joy. This is a NAYOMI challenging task sometimes, but finding some happiness each day has made me GARCIA feel a lot better. I’m thankful that I got to keep working when the pandemic began in CULTURE EDITOR March. While I was still working and doing schoolwork, I had more free time since I didn’t have any lectures. I decided to take up reading to keep myself busy. My teenage self was smiling at me as I found more time to finally enjoy books. I would constantly read throughout middle school, but when I began high school I lost the time I had to read. During the quarantine period, I read about 10 books. I had never felt so happy to get into an old habit. Although reading has brought me lots of joy these past few months, it still saddens me to think of the state our world is in. We’re still fighting through a pandemic while there is chaos going on in nature, such as the fires in California. As we almost wrap up this crazy year, I want to motivate all our readers to keep finding something positive that can make your day better. I hope you can all find peace somewhere that will encourage you to end this year the strongest way you can.
Continuous local and campus covid-19 coverage available at jackcentral.org
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Thank you for reading.
Phone: (928) 523-4921 Fax: (928) 523-9313 Lumberjack@nau.edu P.O. Box 6000 Flagstaff, AZ 86011
THE LUMBERJACK VOL. 110 ISSUE 7
Editor-in-Chief Brady Wheeler
Managing Editor Scout Ehrler
Copy Chief Nathan Manni
Faculty Adviser David Harpster
Print Chief Jacob Meyer
Director of Digital Content Sabrina Profitt
Media Innovation Center Editorial Board Director of Social Media Maddie Cohen
Op-Ed Editor Ryan Dixon
Asst. Culture Editor Katelyn Rodriguez
Director of Illustration Aleah Green
News Editor Trevor Skeen
Asst. Op-Ed Editor Kyler Edsitty
Sports Editor David Church
Asst. Dir. of Illustration Blake Fernandez
Asst. News Editor Camille Sipple
Features Editor Ash Lohmann
Asst. Sports Editor Cameron Richardson
Director of Photography Michael Patacsil
Online News Editor Alliya Dulaney
Asst. Features Editor Olivia Charlson
Sports Adviser Rory Faust
Asst. Dir. of Photography Mackenzie Brower
Senior Reporter Mark Fabery
Culture Editor Nayomi Garcia
Senior Photographer Brian Burke
Director of Multimedia Shawn Patti
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On the cover The movement to Save Shultz Meadow arose after the popular spot became a possible location for future city building projects, Sept. 18. Madison Easton | The Lumberjack
Corrections & Clarifications The Lumberjack is committed to factual correctness and accuracy. If you find an error in our publication, please email Brady Wheeler at bew85@nau.edu.
PoliceBeat
Compiled by Mark Fabery
Sept. 14 At 8:51 a.m., a student at SkyView reported an intimidating phone call from an out-of-state nonstudent. NAUPD responded but no criminal activity was witnessed.
At 11:24 a.m., staff reported a nonstudent sitting in the grass in front of the School of Hotel and Restaurant Management. NAUPD responded but no criminal activity was witnessed.
At 5:59 p.m., a student reported the theft of a sticker in the SkyView Parking Garage. NAUPD responded and took a report.
At 8:34 p.m., a student at Tinsley Hall requested an escort to the Ceramics Complex. NAUPD responded and provided assistance.
At 7:14 p.m., staff at Tinsley Hall reported the odor of marijuana. NAUPD responded and one student was deferred for possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.
Sept. 17 At 10:44 a.m., an employee reported a nonstudent walking in circles near Old Main. NAUPD responded and requested the subject leave campus. They complied.
Sept. 15 At 9:05 a.m., NAUPD reported being flagged down by a subject who was concerned about a dog in a vehicle near the Eastburn Education building. The dog was not in distress and the owner was contacted.
Sept. 18 At 12:43 a.m., a student at Allen Hall reported a loud basketball game outside. NAUPD responded and the students agreed to end their game for the night.
Sept. 20 At 4:09 a.m., a Wilson Hall RA requested assistance for an intoxicated student. NAUPD, FFD and GMT responded, but the student refused transport and was deferred for minor in possession of alcohol.
At 9:53 a.m., an employee at the Student Services Center received an anonymous email reporting a student who claimed to have a firearm on campus. NAU responded and no weapon was found.
At 1:36 p.m., a student reported a verbal disturbance at The Suites. NAUPD responded and the sound was found to be caused by students playing video games. No criminal activity was witnessed.
At 9:55 p.m., a student reported a suspicious vehicle At 9:05 p.m., a student near SkyView. NAUPD reported being threatened near responded but the vehicle was McConnell Hall. NAUPD gone upon arrival. responded and one student was criminally deferred for Sept. 19 threatening and intimidating. At 10:45 a.m., a Mountain Line bus driver Sept. 16 reported three subjects who At 12:56 a.m., staff at refused to leave the bus. Allen Hall reported a student NAUPD responded and one having difficulty breathing. nonstudent was booked into NAUPD, Flagstaff Fire Coconino County Detention Department (FFD) and Facility for trespassing. One Guardian Medical Transport student was cited and released (GMT) responded, and for disorderly conduct and the student refused medical trespassing and was given a transport. public assist ride to Flagstaff Medical Center for treatment of a preexisting injury.
At 5:15 p.m., a subject reported a student with a nail in their foot at the disc golf course. NAUPD, FFD, and GMT responded but the student refused medical transport.
At 8:38 p.m., staff at Reilly Hall reported the odor of marijuana. NAUPD responded and one student was criminally deferred for possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.
At 12:34 p.m., Flagstaff Police Department requested assistance with a funeral escort. NAUPD responded and assistance was provided. At 7:28 p.m., a student reported a subject passed out near the front entrance of Roseberry Apartments. NAUPD responded and one nonstudent was identified and left the area.
Coconino County COVID-19 Dashboard data
Community Transmission Case Rate
At 11:44 p.m., a student reported loud music near the Central Quad. NAUPD responded but the subjects already left the area.
Positivity Percentage Cumulative Cases
Moderate 80.2 per 100,000 pop. 5% 3,682
Flagstaff Medical Center COVID-19 Resources
In House COVID-19 Patients Hosptial Capacity Critical Care Capacity
Positive: 9 | Pending: 10 199/300 35/55
NAU Student Cases
Total on and off Campus Cases
273
Fall 2020 commencement will be held virtually ALliya Dulaney
P
resident Rita Cheng announced the alternate in-person commencement ceremony planned for spring 2020 graduates has been canceled and fall 2020 commencement will be held in a virtual format Nov. 22. “We know this is difficult news for all of you who have worked hard to complete your degrees at a time of unimaginable stress and continued challenges,” Cheng stated in an email Tuesday afternoon. “We know family and friends have looked forward to celebrating their loved ones’ accomplishments in person, and we share your disappointment. All of us at NAU cherish our commencement ceremonies and the opportunity to celebrate our graduates together in Flagstaff, and we wish we had better news.” Cheng said that in the coming weeks, November graduates will receive information about how to participate in the virtual commencement ceremony, receive Virtual Grad Fest information and opt into a virtual graduation kit and other important commencement information. Updated information regarding commencement can be found on the NAU website. Read more online at jackcentral.org
SEPTEMBER 24, 2020 - SEPTEMBER 30, 2020 | THE LUMBERJACK
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NEWS
President Cheng: A timeline Alliya Dulaney, Mark Fabery Camille Sipple & Trevor Skeen Between fall 2014 and the current semester, President Rita Cheng guided the university through a number of transitions, including construction projects, a school-wide rebranding and the COVID-19 pandemic. While the community moves forward in finding a new president, here’s a look back on Cheng’s career.
Cheng began term
One dead, three injured during on-cam
“Dr. Cheng’s impressive career in higher education and her transformative leadership will advance NAU to even greater heights, enable the achievement of the university’s ambitious goals and foster enhanced student success,” said ABOR chair Rick Myers. “This is the beginning of a legacy that will serve the entire state.” “I am truly honored to become the next president of Northern Arizona University and to be a part of the rich tradition and culture that has made NAU the university of choice for so many outstanding students and faculty,” Cheng said. “I look forward with great anticipation to working with the NAU community, as well as the local and statewide business and education communities to build upon the great successes NAU has achieved and continue its forward momentum.”
Aug. 15, 2014
President Cheng’s tenure at the university began with an u 2015 semester, when freshman Steven Jones shot four students, Jones’ court case continued for years — and he was eventually in a trial that received national coverage. Following the shooting, NAU’s Office of the President re students, faculty and staff around NAU. “Community and unity are so much a part of our campu my heartfelt appreciation with the Lumberjack family for time,” Cheng stated. “I also want to extend my sincere appre community for its support and assistance. We are truly fortun caring community.” These remarks were delivered one day after the inciden campus forum was rescheduled in favor of a gathering. In the pr sympathies to everyone affected by the tragedy, while continuin
April 23, 2015
Oct. 9, 2015
Cheng installed as second female president
Courtesy of Andrew Collings
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President Rita Cheng was installed as NAU’s 16th president on April 23, 2015. According to The Lumberjack, former Arizona Board of Regents (ABOR) Chair Mark Killian, previous Flagstaff mayor Jerry Nabours and Arizona Governor Doug Ducey all attended the ceremony. Cheng became the second female president of the university, following Clara Lovett’s tenure from 1994 to 2001. During a 2019 interview with Sedona Monthly, which discussed women in leadership roles, Cheng said she had to put great effort and focus into her career to be taken seriously. “I never felt very strategic about this, but I always felt that I needed to work harder, work longer hours, put in more effort — and that was intrinsic to me,” Cheng said. “I’m not sure that it had to be that way but I approached my career and all the various steps along the way with a great deal of focus and effort. I felt I needed to do that in order for people to take me seriously. I am 4 [feet], 11 [inches tall] and I am a woman.” CJ Penito | The Lumberjack
NEWS Cheng receives $180,000 bonus from ABOR
Science and Health building. Michael Patacsil | The Lumberjack
mpus shooting
unfortunate start during the fall , killing one and injuring three. sentenced to six years in jail —
eleased an official statement to
us culture, and I want to share coming together during this eciation to the greater Flagstaff nate to live in such a close-knit,
nt on Oct. 10, and Oct. 13’s ress release, Cheng also sent her ng to ask for respect and privacy.
Buildings completed on campus During Cheng’s presidential career, a variety of multi-year construction projects were finished on campus. The Science and Health building was completed in fall 2015. With its five-story structure, Flagstaff Business News reported the building consisted of “54 faculty offices, nine interaction rooms and 10 interaction spaces, 18 research labs and eight instructional labs, five classrooms and three lecture halls with a total capacity of 440 seats,” while also expanding STEM education. The completion of the Wall Aquatic Center in fall 2016 served as a replacement for the original facilities built in 1981. Construction began in April 2014, and the entire project took a little over two years. The complex includes tennis courts, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, crow seating and a recreation field, according to the US Builders Review.
July 1, 2016
Fall 2016
NAU kicks the habit by officially becoming a tobacco-free campus After several years of student advocacy from a grassroots campaign and ongoing community discussion, NAU announced its mountain campus would become tobacco-free beginning July 1. Making the switch came after years of lobbying and a commitment from the university to improving the health of students. “This initiative reflects NAU’s strong commitment to wellness and public health, driving principles in what we do each day to create a healthy environment for our students and staff,” Cheng said in a press release. “Our current policies prohibit smoking inside university buildings and vehicles. However, they do not address the health risks associated with secondhand smoke, or the environmental issues caused by tobacco products.” NAU joined a growing number of more than 1,400 tobacco and smokefree campuses around the country, along with ASU, UA, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and Maricopa Community College, among others. Illustration by Alanna Secrest
ABOR awarded President Cheng a $180,000 bonus at the end of the 2017 calendar year, while ASU President Michael Crow and former UA President Ann Weaver Hart both received $25,000. According to the Arizona Daily Sun, Cheng’s base salary that year was $390,000, so the bonus put her at $570,000 in total pay. However, $15,000 was subtracted from each president’s earnings for serving on the executive enterprise committee at ABOR. The same article reported Cheng had a higher number of goals to achieve than her in-state counterparts, which included “a written plan on the future of NAU’s remote campuses and distance learning programs, reach[ing] a 75% retention rate, increas[ing] research expenditures and the number of bachelor’s degrees awarded and increas[ing] the number of community college transfers, among other items. Cheng’s base salary was raised from $390,000 to $475,000 after the 2017-18 academic year, which showed an increase of $85,000 — or 22%, according to the Arizona Daily Sun. “There has never been a greater discrepancy between those who are the highest paid and those who are the lowest paid. What higher education is doing is mirroring the behaviors of the corporate world,” William Tierney, professor and co-director of the Pullias Center for Higher Education at USC, told The Caleb Autry | The Lumberjack Washington Post in an interview.
March 29, 2017
Dec. 2017
Cheng’s campus forum leads to student protests On March 9, 2017, NAU students protested in the streets following Cheng’s spring campus forum. The protesters said the source of their anger was the president’s position on free speech and safe spaces, which ignited controversy after the meeting. During the campus forum, Cheng said the notion of “safe spaces” does not correlate with university goals. This statement was met with gasps from the crowd gathered at the High Country Conference Center. A live recording even showed dozens of students, employees and community members promptly walking out of the forum after hearing
Cheng’s remarks. A few weeks after the forum — on March 29, 2017 — student activists were seen holding signs with captions reading messages like “Rita, your silence is violence.” “She continually promotes diversity and promotes safe spaces in pretty much every speech she gives, yet when I ask her about safe spaces she denounced it explicitly and said that she doesn’t know if it’s her place to give an opinion on safe spaces,” Breanna Kramer said before she joined the protest.
Student activists gather outside the High Country Conference Center March 29, 2017. Michael Patacsil | The Lumberjack
SEPTEMBER 24, 2020 - SEPTEMBER 30, 2020 | THE LUMBERJACK
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NEWS NAU rebranding
Snowpocalypse
Shortly before the 120th anniversary of its founding, NAU implemented a modified logo that combined the NAU Athletics emblem and the university name in 2018. According to spokesperson Kimberly Ott, this creation was credited to Chief Marketing Officer Ashley Chitwood. Beginning in 2005, the university rolled out its long-used shield with a navy blue and sage green crest, which visualized a pine tree and mountains. The old logo was used for 12 years, and the new branding was fully incorporated Sept. 1, 2019.
Spring 2019 brought many surprises, including a historic snowfall that some labeled as the “snowpocalypse.” According to the National Weather Service, a storm system covered the majority of northern Arizona from Feb. 20 to 22. After the storm dumped multiple feet of snow around NAU and Flagstaff, some students expressed their opinions about Cheng canceling classes at the last minute. The school was closed two days in a row due to these weather conditions. “I’ll forever remember how Rita Cheng waited until 11:30 the night before Flagstaff’s biggest snowstorm in history to cancel classes,” a tweet from “katee_hurst” read. “The next day we had 35 inches of snow on the ground. Since the beginning she’s only cared about her paychecks instead of student safety.” According to the Arizona Daily Sun, the snowpocalypse left Flagstaff with 35.9 inches of snow over a 24-hour period and 40.8 inches of snow in total. Furthermore, these accumulations cost the university at least $100,000 in snow removal efforts.
Snow outside the Adel Mathmatics building Megan Ford-Fyffe | The Lumberjack
Aug. 2018
Aug. 2018
Feb. 2019
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In early March, the COVID-19 pandemic surged in Arizo in the early shutdown of the NAU campus and an abrupt transit learning. According to The Lumberjack, Cheng sent an email community at the start of the pandemic regarding the coronaviru spread could affect students and faculty. Following the closure of the Flagstaff Mountain campus, Ch another email statement in late April that announced the scho reopen for the fall semester. Although NAU eventually hosted th remote instruction before implementing the hybrid learning mode to-face classes are still happening. “Consulting with state and federal leaders and health officials, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Arizona Department of Health Services, we are developing and implementing protocols to ensure your safe return to campus,” Cheng stated. Furthermore, the university’s use of in-person coursework during the health crisis incited anger among some students, faculty and staff. A “Die-In” hosted at the north quad on Sept. 18 specifically showed graduate students’ fear of teaching in the classroom. Other staff members were terminated before the summer’s conclusion, which also generated resentment around the Flagstaff area. NAU continues to release its COVID-19 case statistics on a weekly dashboard.
Jan. 2020
March 2020
#RitaResign coalition calls for Cheng’s
NAU Honors College opens The Honors College welcomed its first year of residents during the 2018-19 school year, when a combination of freshman, RAs and some upperclassmen moved into the dormitory. According to its website, the 204,656-square-foot building allows students to “live, study, congregate and collaborate with others.” Among the facilities are classrooms, offices, the Honors Writing Center, student support center and an exercise facility. According to a statement from President Cheng, the new building could help to engage bright students from around the state, country and world. “We are pleased to see an increasing number of top-performing students choose NAU, and programs like the Honors College play a major role in attracting and engaging these students,” Cheng said. “This facility is a commitment to make NAU home for the region’s best and brightest.” Honors Dean Kevin Gustafson also began his tenure at NAU when the new facilities opened. During an interview with The Lumberjack, he discussed the combination of living and learning in the same building. “The building is a great opportunity in so many ways,” Gustafson said, as referenced in the article. “The new Honors [College] residential hall and classrooms will most obviously build upon an already strong sense of community for the college, both for those students living here and for those taking the more than 90 honors classes scheduled in the building this fall.”
Responding to the COVID-19 pandemic
Honors College during construction. Jason White | The Lumberjack
At the start of 2020, the NAU community learned through an audit improperly documented travel expenses. $30,641 of the aforementioned fu purchased business and first-class plane tickets to Russia on a trip she claim international relations. As a result of the public audit, NAU’s Young Democrats club, College Repu signed a joint letter calling for Cheng’s resignation. Through this letter and fo was formed. In an interview with The Lumberjack, Young Democrats former Pre Calli Jones expressed worries about the money in question, along with discussi lack of trust between Cheng and the student body. “There’s a lot of questions on transparency,” Jones said. “Students want to where their money is going.” In response to the #RitaResign coalition’s letter, Cheng addressed the v concerns regarding the audit and her use of university funds in January. said her Russia trip was beneficial to NAU because it strengthened the univ international ties, specifically regarding internships and exchange programs. ABOR also released a statement in response to the letter calling for C resignation in early January, which explained that the presidents of Arizona’s universities are expected to travel abroad periodically for international engag However, ABOR also recognized the error that occurred in failing to pr document university expenses. “Foremost, the board holds itself accountable to ensure compliance with t and policies at the highest level,” ABOR Chair Larry E. Penley stated. “Streng policies and procedures in NAU’s travel documentation are critical. The bo working closely with NAU to take every precaution to prevent any future lapse
c
ona, resulting tion to online to the NAU us and how its
heng released ool’s plans to hree weeks of el, some face-
NEWS ABOR appoints Search Advisory Committee chairs, welcomes community input In a press release, ABOR Chair Larry E. Penley appointed Regents Lyndel Manson and Fred DuVal as co-chairs of the Search Advisory Committee for the next NAU president, with committee members set to be selected at a later date. Penley shared his assurances that Manson and DuVal’s leadership will lead to a successful search for Cheng’s replacement. “I am confident that Regents Manson and DuVal will be outstanding leaders of the Search Advisory Committee and believe their commitment to NAU and northern Arizona will be tremendous assets as we begin this important search process,” Penley said in the press release. “I extend my sincere appreciation to them and am confident they will devote the time necessary for a successful search.” As a part of the search process, the board announced that NAU stakeholders — including students, faculty, staff, residents and the general public, along with community, business and tribal leaders — are invited to participate in sharing their vision on the university’s future. Penley noted that he expects the
s resignation
that Cheng had accumulated $40,000 of unds were reimbursed to Cheng after she med was advantageous for the university’s
Sept. 8, 2020
committee to begin listening to NAU stakeholders shortly. “Widespread conversations with the many NAU constituents will be an essential part of this search process and will help us guide the future of this honored and important university, as well as shape the list of qualifications and characteristics the board seeks in the next president of NAU,” Penley said. “The insights and feedback from constituents and the board will ultimately inform and contribute to the future success of NAU. I expect them to begin in the next [few] days.” Penley said the next steps in the replacement process include issuing a request for proposals for a national firm to conduct the search, adopting guidelines and establishing the Search Advisory Committee’s members under Manson and DuVal.
Sept. 10, 2020
Cheng announces her plans not to pursue a contract renewal
An email sent to students, faculty and staff from the Office of the President stated that Cheng will not be pursuing a contract renewal for her position as president, which officially ends June ublicans club and several other organizations 2022. According to The Lumberjack, she provided ABOR with ormal statement, the #RitaResign coalition significant notice of her decision and allowed them a sufficient amount of time esident to find a replacement. ing the “Although a difficult decision, after 40 years in higher education, I o know have decided that it is time to step away from this role,” Cheng stated. varying The announcement also listed Cheng several of her accomplishments versity’s during her tenure at NAU, which included expanding international Cheng’s relations, growing first-generation public student aid and increasing research gement. funding. roperly ABOR also released an official statement regarding Cheng’s the law decision, which reaffirmed her gthened accomplishments and informed the oard is community that a comprehensive es.” nationwide search is underway for President Rita Cheng surrounded by media and protesters looking for answers finding her replacement. on NAU fossil fuel use, Apr. 28, 2016. Daniel Hud | The Lumberjack
Rita Cheng addresses a letter calling for her resignation, Jan. 29. Shannon Swain | The Lumberjack
SEPTEMBER 24, 2020 - SEPTEMBER 30, 2020 | THE LUMBERJACK
7
NEWS
Professors voice opinions about in-person classes Sebastian Moore
O
nly a year ago, thousands of students were dismissed from their courses, walked outside and saw hordes of people grouped together during the afternoon rush hour between classes, scrambling to make it to their next lecture on time. Now, the crowds of students have disappeared and the classrooms are at minimal capacity, but the educational environment that students and professors have created at NAU is by all means present — it has just moved to a virtual format. As NAU entered its third week of transitioning to a hybrid learning model, some challenges and safety concerns arose. However, professors praised the student body for their flexibility adapting to the new learning model. Amy Hitt, an associate professor of practice in strategic communication, said her students have been great in regard to COVID-19 health and safety protocols. Hitt said she feels safer in the classroom as compared to going to the grocery store. “I have felt safe in my classrooms,” Hitt said. “Most of that is based on the behavior, you know, students wearing masks, teachers wearing masks, everyone staying six feet apart. That is the way you have to do it at the grocery store and that’s the way it needs to be done in the classroom.” Preparing for a lecture requires the same amount of work for Hitt, regardless if it is in person or virtual. Hitt said she feels the most stress during her class periods, but not when she is preparing for a course. She said it has been challenging to engage with students in the classroom and maintain awareness of comments on Zoom. “I knew going in that it would be difficult and, honestly, I don’t feel like I performed as well as I hoped I would under those circumstances, so I know there is a big learning curve for me,” Hitt said. “I think I did OK attempting to engage the inclass students, because that’s what
8
I am used to. What I failed at was continuing to engage the students who were on Zoom.” Senior lecturer Michael Rulon is in his eighth year teaching French at NAU. Rulon praised his students by noting their flexibility, understanding and consideration. Due to the size of his classrooms, Rulon divided his class into four groups, and he is unsure if students attending in person are receiving a better education than those attending virtually. Although there are complexities involved with teaching a foreign language class virtually, Rulon said he and his students created a great sense of community. “Students were participating and they were enthusiastic,” Rulon said. “It was going a lot better than the second half of last semester, because the students were more prepared for what they were going to be doing.” A shift to virtual learning has undoubtedly presented itself with technical difficulties. Rulon said his classes experienced technology issues, such as recording and sound problems, which are not conducive to learning a foreign language. “I have a student who’s attending from another country with a pretty serious time difference, and I’ve been trying to record classes so that she can watch them at any time that’s not in the middle of the night,” Rulon said. “I’ve managed to post, I think, three class recordings for her out of the five weeks.” The most substantial challenge Rulon faced this semester was the inability to give virtual attendees the pronunciation help needed to succeed in a foreign language class. Rulon said that the Zoom chat option was advantageous for shy students and sharing responses with the class. However, he also said it is more difficult from a professor’s perspective to determine if students on Zoom are truly engaged with the course material. Regarding in-person teaching, Rulon does not have many concerns due to the limited number of students who attend face-to-face lectures and
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because the attendees have been following the COVID-19 protocols the university implemented. “I’m not feeling like I am in terrible danger,” Rulon said. “The students in my classes seem to be taking COVID safety pretty seriously. I made it clear that if they show up without a mask, they’re not coming into the classroom. We’ve been keeping the windows open and the doors open for fresh air.” Rulon said he and his students are also actively using “tequila wipes” to clean the classroom before and after lectures. He calls them “tequila wipes” due to their awful smell resembling tequila. Cate Ellis, a professor in the Department of Theatre, is currently in her 16th year as a professor at NAU. Ellis is teaching technical classes, including costume construction and introduction to design classes this semester. Ellis’s costume construction class requires the use of a sewing machine, so unless students have access to a machine from home, they must attend in-person classes. Since early July, Ellis has been preparing demonstration videos for her students, which she said have their respective advantages and disadvantages. “The disadvantage of this is that even though I started back in July, I’m still making these videos because they take more time than I anticipated,” Ellis said. “The benefit is that in the spring I will have those.” Due to the nature of her costume construction class, Ellis averages nine people, including herself, in the classroom at any given time. Ellis and the Department of Theatre’s expectations are to trust students and faculty; however, safety concerns are still present. “I’m in there with eight students for two hours,” Ellis said. “That’s below the 10% threshold, but we are in there for two hours.” According to NAU’s website, the university is implementing mitigation testing by randomly selecting approximately 2,500 faculty, students and staff for COVID-19 testing on a
weekly basis. Faculty received emails regarding when they must be tested, and The Lumberjack spoke to several of these employees — who wish to remain anonymous. Multiple sources agreed the email contained “threatening” language. “The communication to the faculty around the requirement of the mitigation testing was punitive in nature and was not conducive to getting faculty to want to do it,” an anonymous NAU professor said. “The email that was sent out to faculty … was very punitive and very threatening about if somebody doesn’t go and get this test that week, very bad things could happen. It was a threatening email.” According to the email, those who refuse a COVID-19 test will be subject to punitive action. An anonymous NAU professor said these disciplinary actions include termination of the faculty member’s position. Spokesperson Kimberly Ott, who is also the assistant to the president, said in an email interview that the university does not discuss disciplinary actions for either students or employees. “Upon notification, testing is required of all students and employees and the language about being subject to disciplinary actions is standard in that notification,” Ott said. “There is also the ability to request an
exemption.” Another anonymous NAU professor raised concerns about the accuracy of active cases on NAU’s campus. As of Sept. 16, Ott said NAU conducted 4,858 self-administered saliva-based tests at the University Union Fieldhouse. According to the coronavirus dashboard website, the university is managing 273 positive COVID-19 cases as of Sept. 18, which represents a significant increase from the 96 confirmations on Sept. 11 However, the anonymous professor had their doubts over the accuracy of these numbers. “I would like better information about how many cases we actually have on campus, and I know part of the issue comes from how the cases are reported,” the unnamed professor said. NAU’s website is updated on a weekly basis to inform the public about how many active cases the university is managing. As NAU continues to transition to its hybrid learning model, professors emphasized the consideration, flexibility and understanding of the student body, while also recognizing some safety concerns of being in a classroom. Whether learning is done online or in person, the community proved its resilience in successfully adapting to any situations that present themselves.
Illustration By Aleah Green
Illustration By aleah green
NEWS
Counterfeit fentanyl leads to drug fatalities think NAU should send out an email or video explaining the effects or anything we need to know about it.” While some students do not know much about narcotics distribution in the area, Hernandez said he wanted to caution everyone about what people are ingesting along with the dosage.
Tess Spinker
L
aw enforcement officials are warning city residents and local students about the recent spread of counterfeit fentanyl, which led to multiple overdoses and two fatalities within the last month. The Flagstaff Police Department (FPD) initially reported two deaths at separate locations. Both scenes contained clear, small bags filled with blue pills marked “M30,” according to The Associated Press (AP). Public relations officer Charles Hernandez II said each death is reviewed individually, and results are shared with investigators to figure out what the police department can do to prevent any additional deaths. “More recently, the overdoses and deaths have spiked significantly, prompting the greater response and request for action from the community,” Hernandez said. “We are currently waiting for the medical examiner’s report on the deaths in order to determine whether fentanyl or its derivative contributed to the death or caused the overdose of the individuals.” According to federal officials, the illicit drug also known as “Mexican Oxy” has been engulfing the Southwest in recent years. The narcotics typically make their way through the southern borders, assisted by Mexican drug cartels, as reported by AP. In 2018, these opioids and other drugs were responsible for approximately 70% of all drug overdose fatalities, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In Coconino County alone, the Arizona Department of Health Services reported
“The issue is becoming a serious epidemic and we are working diligently to preserve the life of our community.” – Charles Hernandez II, NAUPD Public Relations Officer
Illustration By dOMINIC dAVIES
124 verified opioid overdoses over all age groups that have accumulated since June 2017. Across the state average, 19% of cases involve individuals who are 18-24 years old and an additional 44% are between 25 and 44 years old. Hernandez said he is worried experimentation is prevalent in the university community, and fentanyl is most commonly used by college-age individuals. FPD formed a partnership with the
NAUPD to raise awareness of these concerns and to combat the sales of drugs in the local community. “NAU Police has also allocated an officer to join the METRO Narcotics Unit task force to proactively seek out and stop sales of drugs in the community and on campus,” Hernandez said. “The issue is becoming a serious epidemic and we are working diligently to preserve the life of our community.”
The METRO Unit is a street crime task force responsible for investigating, arresting and prosecuting gang members and people who transport narcotics in the northern Arizona region. While NAUPD has yet to respond to the ongoing outbreak, the university provides different types of alcohol and drug abuse prevention programs online that feature educational health guidelines to avoid
drug exposure for students. Additional information is listed on the program’s website. Freshman Mallery Holbein said she is unaware about the educational programs NAU has to offer, but said she wishes they would broadcast more opportunities available for students on and off campus. “I am worried about it for campus because it is a hard drug and people should not get into that,” Holbein said. “I
“In 2017, more than 47,000 Americans died as a result of an opioid overdose, including prescription opioids, heroin, and illicitly manufactured fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid. That same year, an estimated 1.7 million people in the United States suffered from substance use disorders related to prescription opioid pain relievers, and 652,000 suffered from a heroin use disorder,” according to the National Institute of Drug Abuse. FPD also has a proactive approach that advises the community to help report any information related to the sale of drugs within the community. These tips can often help advance investigations and can be done directly through the department or via Coconino County Silent Witness.
SEPTEMBER 24, 2020 - SEPTEMBER 30, 2020 | THE LUMBERJACK
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NEWS
TAGCarts offers disposable medical equipment tREVOR sKEEN
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efore the pandemic reshaped businesses around the world, Taggart Neal and John Krueger planned to market their hospital-durable medical equipment. However, the onset of COVID-19 quickly changed those intentions, and the pair unveiled a singleuse, biodegradable medical cart stocked with personal protective equipment (PPE) — the HEROCart. Neal and Krueger donated 250 HEROCarts to the Arizona Department of Health Services (AZDHS), along with an additional 150 units to the Navajo Nation. These supplies are commonly used at alternative care sites, which the Centers of Medicare & Medicaid Services documented as a “broad term for any building or structure that is temporarily converted or newly erected for health care use.” The reservation spans over certain parts of Arizona, Utah and New Mexico, and local
hospitals were filled with COVID-19 patients in May. When alternative care sites were established to treat more people, Neal said 500 beds were sometimes limited to just two medical carts. However, the donated HEROCarts were applied to triage testing rooms, swing-bed areas, outpatient clinics, school nursing facilities and a number of other services, which helped to improve these operations. Neal is the CEO of TAGCarts, a company he launched in February 2019 with Krueger, an economic development specialist who serves as an advisory board member. The designs, prototypes and products are from Sacramento, California, although both businesspeople received degrees from NAU — Neal from the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences and Krueger from the W.A. Franke College of Business. While adjusting their plans from hospital-durable medical equipment to temporary carts was a big change, Neal said it was an easy decision. “It may sound cliche, but it wasn’t really a
Taggart Neal, left, and John Krueger, right, smile while holding a HEROCart and wearing their NAU hats in Sacramento, Calif. Sept. 11. Photo courtesy of Taggart Neal
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question,” Neal said. “The world was in crisis, and everyone from the governor of California to the president of the United States was asking health care companies to innovate and help.”
“The world was in crisis, and everyone from the governor of California to the president of the United States was asking health care companies to innovate and help.” – tAGGART nEAL, tagCARTS ceo Meanwhile, Krueger described hospitals as environments of care that are designed to be permanent and planned. The temporary nature of alternative care sites, however, can lead to challenges in regularizing patients’ treatment, but HEROCarts may provide an answer. “Each of those environments has their own specific types of carts,” Krueger said. “Without them, the nurses and the doctors — all the health care providers — have a totally different flow of care. How can we give them [alternative care sites] some of the standardized processes in a manner that’s conducive to the pandemic or to a disaster?” According to the company’s website, each HEROCart contains a lid, upper tray, three drawers and four swivel casters. Inside the carts, health care professionals can find five N95 masks and 15 pairs of medium, large and extra large gloves. For anyone considering donations, the carts are bundled at $250 each. An email from Kellie DeMarco Communications, a public relations and media company also based in Sacramento, stated that TAGCarts is unable to share the internal and working costs of its services. However, the expenditures were described as “dynamic and proprietary,” which means that cost, scale and pricing models are subject to additional changes. “While an innovative and patent-pending product, the competitive marketplace we participate in prevents us from sharing internal operational costs including manufacturing,” the email stated. “Production is a mere fraction of a traditional medical cart equivalent typically $2$5k/each.” All 150 HEROCarts donated to the Navajo
Nation were shipped to Chinle, Arizona, and different areas received distributions thereafter. Neal said the single-use medical carts were used at Sage Memorial Hospital in Ganado, Arizona, along with another facility south of Albuquerque, New Mexico. Upon receiving its contribution of 250 HEROCarts, AZDHS shared the equipment with a number of counties and tribal lands around the state: Apache, Cocopah, Gila, Navajo, Pima, Pinal, San Carlos and Yavapai among them. Neal also discussed his plans to travel back to Arizona from Sacramento to conduct in-service trainings at various medical facilities applying the company’s product. By carefully working with frontline nurses, doctors and other medical staff, Neal said he can learn more about developing his ideas. In partnership with PRIDE industries, HEROCarts are assembled by veterans and people with disabilities. While addressing this business model, Neal said “corporate social responsibility” is at the center of TAGCarts’ work, along with the sustainability of its products. Neal, Krueger and the other employees at TAGCarts are considering new applications for their single-use medical equipment, but they also want to stay devoted to current investors and business partners. In Yemen specifically, Neal said the 1.3 million people fighting through population displacement could benefit from portable PPE. “Additionally, while we move to a ‘for purchase’ revenue model — away from the hundreds we’ve donated — part of our model is to continue to identify and serve communities and populations who may not be readily available to purchase,” the email stated. “If you want a HEROCart, we’re looking for likeminded, forward-thinking healthcare systems to partner with us!” Both business people attended NAU at the same time, although Neal studied criminal justice and Krueger economics. Additionally, they each worked at restaurants in west Flagstaff — Chili’s and Subway to be specific — but never met each other while working toward undergraduate degrees. They shared their passion for NAU and the greater Flagstaff community. “We both have a deep love for Northern Arizona University, Lumberjacks in general and Coconino County and Flagstaff,” Neal said. “John [Krueger] and I are testaments to that.”
COMIC SPOT
Comic By Diana Ortega
Written By Diana Ortega & Illustrated by Blake Fernadez
SEPTEMBER 24, 2020 - SEPTEMBER 30, 2020 | THE LUMBERJACK
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OPINION-EDITORIAL
Netflix’s ‘Cuties’ cannot be justified Trinity archie
Dating a Greek life member as an outsider
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he first question I hear when listening in on my boyfriend’s fraternity brothers discussing their newest dates is, “What sorority is she in?” I remember once someone replied with something along the lines of, “Well, she’s a geed,” Greek life’s way of determining who’s an outsider. “Geed” is derived from GDI (goddamn independent) which refers to those not in Greek life. From this conversation and from most of my encounters as a geed dating a fraternity man, members don’t often venture outside their world of fraternities and sororities. That’s not to say that these aren’t some of the kindest and most fun people I’ve met in college, but it has made me aware of my differences from everyone else. HAYLEY When I was living my normal life, BOSTIAN before COVID-19, every weekend was WRITER saturated with parties and gatherings at the frat houses, but one date party with my boyfriend sticks out in particular. I was nervous, to say the least, and I felt as though the sorority girls who would be there as dates had an advantage of fitting in because they already knew other girls. Despite this, I put my fears aside to be a good girlfriend and got ready. I remember wearing jeans, a black top, sneakers and feeling as confident as I could at that point. However, when I arrived and met a few of the other girls, all of my fears came rushing back. They were all in dresses and sandals with perfectly curled hair, while I was clearly underdressed. I was visibly awkward if my boyfriend left my side for a second. However, most of the voices in my head eventually quieted as I socialized with more people throughout the night. But still, I often feel as though it’s completely obvious that I’m not in Greek life. The whole point of Greek life is to form close bonds with others involved in it, but I’ve been working on how to exactly move past the feelings of being out of place in a tight-knit community. One thing that has helped me is the notion that if a Greek member is dating me, it isn’t based on whether or not I am a part of Greek life, it’s based on their feelings about whether I belong within their social circle. These thoughts of doubt and insecurity are hard to completely get rid of when dating someone very different from you, but I remind myself that the person I am with doesn’t see Greek life inclusion as a big enough reason to not date me. This can be more difficult than it seems, especially when Greek life isn’t typically associated with long-term dating, but it isn’t impossible. It just requires you to have a lot of trust in your partner and confidence in yourself.
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movie, however, the way these scenes were visually portrayed is disturbing. The inclusion of graphic scenes places young girls in vulnerable positions. There are predators who will watch this film with ill intent. Additionally, “Cuties” is only perceived as social commentary, given the backstory and childhood of the filmmaker. The average viewer will likely watch the film without this additional context. As a result, “Cuties” serves as nothing but hypersexualization of children to its general audience. It was irresponsible and selfish of the director to use children’s bodies to portray her message. The movie would have delivered the message just as effectively through powerful writing or implication rather than literal visual scenes that sexualize minors. Both Doucouré and Netflix are to blame for the effects this film will have on society. Yet, Netflix refuses to acknowledge that “Cuties” is problematic. Prior to the film’s Netflix debut, controversy began when the “Cuties” promotional poster appeared on the platform’s homepage. The images featured Amy’s dance troupe in revealing costumes. Netflix issued an apology statement Aug. 20 via Twitter in which they announced updated promotional artwork that no longer featured these inappropriate images. According to a Variety article, the company went on to defend their decision in supporting the film, even encouraging critics to watch it. Netflix needs to delete “Cuties” from their platform. Unfortunately, the film does not effectively relay its intended message to the average viewer. Netflix contributes to the sexualization of minors by defending the film. Doucouré and Netflix’s good intentions were executed poorly though “Cuties.” There is still time for all parties involved to admit their wrongdoings and take accountability.
etflix has seen an increase in subscription cancellations following the release of a controversial film. “Cuties” began streaming on the platform in eary September and has been criticized since its release date. According to an interview with NPR, “Cuties” was directed by French and Senegalese filmmaker Maïmouna Doucouré. The film follows an 11-year-old girl, Amy, who is looking to escape the strict rules set forth by her Muslim Senegalese family who immigrated to Paris for better opportunity. Amy joins the popular girls’ school dance troupe in hopes of gaining acceptance and freedom from her strict upbringing. This is where sexualization of minors comes into play and remains throughout the film. Amy and her middle school friends are seen performing inappropriate dances, wearing revealing clothing and participating in many other activities that are not suitable for 11-year-old children. Netflix has chosen not to remove the film and it is still available for streaming. This is an irresponsible decision. Netflix refuses to take responsibility for promoting a film that sexualizes young girls. The company has a monopoly over the streaming market and a significant impact on our culture, therefore has influence. Although the company may not directly support sexualization of children, that will undoubtedly be the result of “Cuties” success on Netflix. Even amid the backlash, the film’s director defended her work. Doucouré explained in an NPR interview that “Cuties” tells her childhood story of rebellion while incorporating the harmful effects of social media on today’s youth. “Today you have that exposition of your body on social media, and you also have this big competition of finding ‘likes’ and followers and that is for me a new kind of finding love,” Doucouré said. The filmmaker explained that the movie’s intent is to criticize the hypersexualization of children, not contribute to it. Doucouré was also inspired in part by her reaction to a local dance troupe of young girls who performed choreographed dances similar to those in “Cuties.” “And they were dancing very sensually, sexually and I was very disturbed about what I was seeing,” Doucouré said. I understand what Doucouré was trying to portray through the film and I believe it is a powerful message. The sexualization of young girls is a topic that needs to be addressed. Illustration By Diana Ortega I do not have a problem with the plot of the
OPINION-EDITORIAL
The US has turned its back on veterans HAYLEE EMCH
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hen veterans of the United States military return home or are retired from service, many do not get the warm welcome that is commonly portrayed at sports games or in viral videos of emotional reunions. Maybe the veterans’ families show support and love, but overall the U.S. has met veterans with a cold shoulder or dismissive attitude. Even the president is guilty of this behavior. The Atlantic published an article that included President Trump using unsupportive words about military troops and deceased veterans. Trump allegedly called past war heroes and veterans “losers” and insulted the importance of military honor. This adds to the evidence that the U.S. does not appreciate veterans and active service members. However, disrespect toward soldiers and veterans has occurred throughout history. Support for the military goes up and down, as seen by a timeline created by James Fallows of The Atlantic that demonstrated the double standards in citizen morale. “This reverent, but disengaged attitude toward the military — we love the troops, but we’d rather not think about them — has become so familiar that we assume it is the American norm,” Fallows wrote. He continues by stating citizens are, “Eager to go to war, as long as someone else is going. It would be the story of a country willing to do anything for its military except take it seriously.” Many people around the world have opinions about the military without fully understanding the institution and the people in it. There are many misconceptions about why people join the military in the first place. A study by the Armed & Forces Society analyzed the reasons people join and the stereotypes that follow from civilians. There is a misconception that people’s primary reasons to join the military are for selfsacrificing patriotism or the economic reasons to escape poor circumstances.
It is disrespectful to degrade service members to the point that they are seen as stereotypes that either want glory or money. Many veterans struggle for economic reasons after leaving the military. The unemployment rate for veterans rose to nearly 12% in April, according to the Military Times. Not only are unemployment rates high for veterans, but many homeless veterans have nowhere left to turn. The National Coalition for Homeless Veterans (NCHV) stated, “About 11% of the adult homeless population are veterans. The majority are single; live in urban areas; and suffer from mental illness, alcohol and/ or substance abuse or co-occurring disorders. About 1.4 million other veterans, meanwhile, are considered at risk of homelessness due to poverty, lack of support networks and dismal living conditions in overcrowded or substandard housing.” Veterans can also have a hard time finding a career after their service. According to the NCHV, “military occupations and training are not always transferable to the civilian workforce, placing some veterans at a disadvantage when competing for employment.” The NCHV stated the reasoning behind why many veterans become homeless or have financial struggles is a product of, “extreme shortage of affordable housing, livable income and access to health care.” Being in the military not only creates economic struggles but brings trauma as well. Science Daily reported Washington University found that, “Battlefield trauma can leave veterans with deep emotional scars that impact their ability to function in civilian life. But new research suggests that
military service, even without combat, has a subtle lingering effect on a [person’s] personality, making it potentially more difficult for veterans to get along with friends, family and co-workers.” This leads to many veterans struggling to readjust to civilian life based on traumatic experiences and the strict discipline they lived with. For some reason, the public seems to dismiss these traumas and place all the blame on the veterans themselves for not properly and seamlessly adjusting back into civilian life. It is not only difficult for veterans, but it is also extremely hard for military spouses when support for their partner is low. Military Spouse, a website dedicated to military life, reported that all of the same struggles for veterans apply to their families and loved ones. Military significant others have similar struggles of finding jobs that are military-friendly, meaning it allows them to move across the country every few years. They also struggle with raising children and having their own life while their partner is deployed. According to the spouses, it is hardest for them when their spouse does not feel supported
or recognized. Not only are veterans strong, but so are the partners who are providing their utmost support. During the pandemic, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has stepped up in assisting those at risk of homelessness. They state that, “In total, $602 million of coronavirus relief funding has now been allocated for Supportive Services for Veteran Families Program, which will also help the Housing and Urban Development-VA Supportive
Housing Program place Veterans in safe housing to isolate them from the virus.” Other organizations such as We Honor Veterans have made it their mission to honor these heroes, something the public doesn’t do nearly enough. One simple way to honor a service member is to simply say, “Thank you for your service.” There needs to be more resources and support for the military and all that they sacrifice. The citizens of the U.S. need to speak up and not let veterans’ sacrifices happen in vain.
“About 11% of the adult homeless population are veterans. ” – The national coalition for homeless veterans
Illustration By Tonesha Yazzie
SEPTEMBER 24, 2020 - SEPTEMBER 30, 2020 | THE LUMBERJACK
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FEATURES
Locals fight to save an i Joey Wright
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ne of Flagstaff’s most iconic views of the San Francisco Peaks can be seen from Schultz Meadow. The three acres of untouched land at the corner of Schultz Pass Road and Fort Valley Road is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to enjoy the beauty of Flagstaff. However, this won’t be the case if the area is developed — which is exactly what Save Schultz Meadow is trying to prevent. A member of the Save Schultz Meadow committee, Staci Foulks, said the group is a citizen ballot initiative that is currently collecting signatures to put Schultz Meadow on the ballot. This would give voters the opportunity to vote on preserving the land as open space, which would protect the land from development. The citizen initiative process bypasses the legislative branch of government. When it is passed, only the voters can overturn the decision with another citizen initiative, Foulks said. The legislative branch cannot repeal it. If the voters approve this question, the Flagstaff City Council will
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not be able to reverse the decision. She said this means with enough signatures, Save Schultz Meadow is guaranteed to be on the ballot. “We believe that the citizen initiative process is the purest form of democracy, better than having our elected officials decide for us,” Foulks said. Over 4,500 registered voters signed petitions to put Schultz Meadow on the ballot, Foulks said, and volunteers are continuing to collect more signatures. She explained that the majority of voters who have interacted with her have been supportive of saving Schultz Meadow. “The overall response has been extremely positive,” Foulks said. “The Flagstaff community is passionate about preserving Schultz Meadow as open space. We have learned that many in Flagstaff feel that Schultz Meadow is an iconic piece of Flagstaff.” Although Foulks said most people have reacted positively to the Save Schultz Meadow movement, there are some community members as well as city council members who oppose the initiative and are in favor of developing the area. Despite the minor opposition, the initiative has
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collected and continues to collect a large amount of signatures. 4,500 signatures is more than enough for an initiative to be put on the ballot, but Save Schultz Meadow is opting not to turn them in for the election in November. Foulks said the reason they decided to wait is because the COVID-19 pandemic stopped the volunteers from collecting signatures out and about in the community. “Because public health and safety was our first priority, we decided to stop collecting signatures,” Foulks said. “Had the pandemic not hit, we undoubtedly would have collected enough signatures to ensure a comfortable margin of error.” One challenge in getting signatures is overcoming the regulations on who can actually sign the petition, Foulks explained. Citizens of Coconino County cannot sign the petitions if they don’t live within the city limits of Flagstaff. She also said many who live in the county but outside of Flagstaff limits were disappointed they couldn’t give
“It makes you remembe are to live in north
– Nancy Evans, Save s Volunte
FEATURES
iconic piece of Flagstaff
er how lucky you hern Arizona.”
schultz Meadow eer
their signatures. Along with the regulations on who can sign, the signatures themselves go through a strict review of validation, Foulks said. This is why Save Schultz Meadow aims to collect many more signatures than the 4,000 that are needed to get on the ballot, in the case of any errors. Foulks explained that although the city council cannot stop a citizen’s initiative, Schultz Meadow is not on the ballot yet, which means the city council could discuss taking action before citizens can vote on the matter. “We trust that our elected officials will not attempt to take advantage of the toll the pandemic took upon the initiative by taking action on the land before voters have had the opportunity to vote,” Foulks said. The Save Schultz Meadow initiative is completely run by volunteers and has no paid staff, Foulks said. Nancy Evans is a member of the Flagstaff community who has actively participated in collecting signatures and supporting the Save Schultz Meadow initiative. She said she has worked as a volunteer to collect signatures a few times in the past.
“I strongly support voter initiatives, especially when it comes to development of open space in Flagstaff,” Evans said. “I really hope the city respects the voters’ rights and lets the residents of Flagstaff decide.” One thing Evans said she liked to stress when collecting signatures was that putting Schultz Meadow on the ballot does not automatically mean it will remain undeveloped. However, putting the matter on the ballot will allow the people to be in control of the outcome — regardless of what that may be — rather than leaving it up to government officials. Evans said there have been several occasions in Flagstaff when a piece of land was developed without residents having the opportunity to vote on the matter beforehand. A few examples she mentioned were when The Jack, formally known as The Hub, and The Standard apartment complexes were built. “We’ve seen some development that after the fact, has really been scrutinized by Flagstaff,” Evans said. “People would have opposed them if they were given the chance. Growth is inevitable and I’m not opposed to all growth,
but I am a supporter of planned growth and protecting special and unique places.” Foulks and Evans encourage everyone who is interested in protecting Schultz Meadow to get involved. The initiative is looking for more volunteers to collect signatures, people who can make donations to the campaign and community members who are willing to sign the petition. “There aren’t many views that I would make the effort to protect, but [the view from Shultz Meadow] is one of them,” Evans said. “It makes you remember how lucky you are to live in northern Arizona. I encourage everyone who hasn’t signed the petition to get a hold of Save Schultz Meadow.” To keep up with the Save Schultz Meadow initiative, one can follow its Facebook or Instagram page @saveschultzmeadow, or go to its website for more information on how to get involved.
The movement to Save Shultz Meadow arose after the popular spot became a possible location for future city building projects, Sept. 18. Madison Easton | The Lumberjack
SEPTEMBER 24, 2020 - SEPTEMBER 30, 2020 | THE LUMBERJACK
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FEATURES
Summer White (right) hoses down the rows of produce after Flagstaff’s first frost at Roots Micro Farm. Roots Micro Farm grows produce and micro greens to sell to local restaurants and Flagstaff residents, Sept. 18. Madison Easton | The Lumberjack
Roots Micro Farm influencing Flagstaff food supply Nancy Flores
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ith more time on their hands due to quarantine, many locals have been taking special interest in where their food comes from. Learning about nutrition and food sourcing, however, is nothing new to Roots Micro Farm. Roots Micro Farm is a farm on a quarterof-an-acre plot of land located on Birch Avenue, downtown. The farm is tucked in downtown Flagstaff and is considered an urban farm. Christina Osterink, a long-term volunteer and former intern at Roots Micro Farm said she enjoys seeing people learn more about their food when they visit the farm. “It’s great to see people take a wider interest in their food,” Osterink said. Summer White, the farm’s manager, said Roots Micro Farm has expanded since their first season in 2016. She said she noticed urban types of agriculture becoming more trendy recently. Though with less space, urban farming is on a much smaller scale than usual. According to WVPE Public Radio, a Michigan and Indiana-based radio station, micro farms are located on five acres of land or less. Micro farms are forced to put forth extra planning, considering they only have so much land to work with. White explained Roots Micro Farm focuses on farming crops that can mature in 60 days, so
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they can maximize their small space to its full capacity. Roots continues to maximize its yield by growing produce year-round. The produce from Roots Micro Farm goes to the local community. The food grown at Roots often finds its way to the kitchens of Flagstaff restaurants. The farm sells produce to a variety of local restaurants including Shift Kitchen & Bar and Local Juicery, White said. Locals can also purchase produce from Roots at the Flagstaff Farmers Market. In order to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the Flagstaff Farmers Market was closed in the summer. Therefore, Roots Micro Farm was not able to sell their produce at the market. Typically, Roots mainly profits from the sales it makes at the farmers market. However this year, the farm had to get a bit more creative in terms of getting its produce to the community. White said Roots Micro Farm added a new item to its list of products, something that allows for community members to grow their own herbs, microgreens and vegetables at home during the pandemic. The product is called edible gardens. They are gardens that are installed at the buyer’s home with the help and guidance of Roots farmers. According to Roots Micro Farm’s website, the edible gardens allow Flagstaff to build a stronger urban food system. White said the edible gardens start with a consultation from the Roots farmers to see what kind of produce the customer should plant at
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home. From there, the Roots team helps with the installation and can also offer instruction after planting. The shelter-in-place order gave people extended time at home, which caused many to begin home projects. All sorts of hobbies including gardening and farming were taken up, Osterink said. White said edible gardens and other urban farms allow people to be self-sufficient in that they are letting people look at alternatives for food supply, rather than just making weekly trips to the grocery store. Traditional methods of food accessibility, like grocery stores, can contribute to climate change. According to the U. S. Department of Agriculture, farming was estimated to account for 10.5% of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions in 2018. Osterink said Roots Micro Farms is doing their part in educating its local population. The farm allows schools to come visit and educate children about the benefits of growing their own produce. Growing one’s own food, Osterink explained, is also important to teach children. Parents, children, college students, and more are welcome at Roots to learn about farming. Osterink said she doesn’t expect every single person to grow their own food and understands that gardening or farming might not be an option for everyone. While life can get in the way, she said she hopes people who hear about
this alternative will at the very least educate themselves about where their food comes from. While the free time stemming from the pandemic increases the idea of farming and gardening, it is also leaving micro farms like Roots to put more work onto their limited staff. “The best way right now for people to support local agriculture is to reach out to their farmers directly,” White said. “Do a bit of research, see what growers are in your area, see if they can purchase and keep them in business.” It is not just Roots Micro Farm that is seeing the potential and impact of urban agriculture. According to the Phoenix New Times, Phoenix City Council approved the 2025 Phoenix Food Action Plan on March 4. This plan revised codes in order to clear obstacles that block urban agriculture and encourage education through urban farming. White explained it is important to make a lasting impact and show the community that sustainable food systems are available locally. She said she and others at Roots hope to inspire more people to start their own gardens or small farms in order to create better alternatives for sourcing food. According to EcoWatch, an environmental news website, it is estimated that by 2050, 68% of the world’s population will be living in urban areas, and therefore, many farmers like White are hoping that farms like Roots are here to stay.
CULTURE
A trip back to the “Twilight” days
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s I’ve found myself reading more this year, I was more than excited to find out “Twilight” author Stephenie Meyer would be releasing a new book. “Midnight Sun” begins the same way “Twilight” does, but Edward Cullen is now the narrator. I’ve always loved Edward’s character, and I was looking forward to hearing his side about his relationship with Bella Swan. The story begins with Edward going through his routine at Forks High School in Washington state. Nothing about school is exciting for Edward because he’s been to high school many times before. After all, he is a vampire, over 100 years old and stuck in the body of a teenager, so I can imagine how terrible repeating high school is. NAYOMI Since Edward’s gift as a vampire is reading GARCIA minds, he can hear students talking about the new girl, CULTURE EDITOR Bella. At first, Edward and his family of vampires aren’t excited about a new girl. When Bella walks into the same biology class as Edward, he is shocked by the smell of her blood. He finds himself thinking violent thoughts about killing Bella in order to get a taste of the blood. Edward finally controls his thoughts about hurting her as each day passes, and he finds himself falling in love with Bella. I love Edward, but I never understood why he loved Bella so much. Her character even managed to annoy me when Edward would confess his love for her throughout the book. I also found myself feeling bad for Edward because he was always bringing himself down by saying that he was the worst thing that could ever happen to Bella. His narrations described how he is a disgusting creature who is not worthy of loving a human like her. I felt sad reading his thoughts because Edward was way too harsh on himself. He repeats these ideas throughout many parts in the book, and I was a bit annoyed hearing the same details from him. My favorite part of the book is the scene where Edward saves Bella while she is shopping with her friends in Port Angeles, Washington. Bella, being reckless, leaves her friends and goes to a bookstore at night. The town is unfamiliar to her, and Bella gets lost when a group of creepy men start approaching her. As she is freaking out, Edward magically appears to save her. This scene is one of my favorites because it starts showing the development of their relationship and we get to see Bella slowly realize that Edward is a vampire. Reading Edward’s perspective of this scene made me more excited to see how the story would evolve in his mind. Although some of Meyer’s writing bored me in this book, I’m glad fans finally got to read something from Edward’s perspective. I enjoyed getting to learn more about him and how his life as a vampire changed over time.
Citizens Energy Group stops to reminisce at every Peace Pole in Flagstaff on their walk to the dedication of the fifth in Heritage Square, Sept. 21, 2018. Pictured is Peace Pole at the Quaker Meeting House. MacKenzie Brower | The Lumberjack
Celebrating a day for global peace sophia salazar
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hen looking at the events going on in the world, one may feel overwhelmed. Despite the influx of negative news, International Day of Peace is just around the corner. Sept. 21 is a day for nations to unite, and calls for all countries that are part of the United Nations General Assembly to set aside their differences and participate in a 24-hour nonviolence and cease-fire agreement. International Day of Peace, also known as Peace Day, represents hope and serenity to U.N. member states. This day was established as a way for all 193 sovereign states to come together and advocate peace and justice for all, and it represents equality and cultural inclusion in the U.N. General Assembly. International Day of Peace can be celebrated by spreading kindness during the trying circumstances of 2020. It is tradition to light a candle and initiate a minute of silence at noon in each time zone. This signifies a peace wave around countries that are a part of the U.N. As International Day of Peace commences, the U.N. will celebrate its 75th anniversary while dealing with the challenges 2020 has created. Due to the pandemic, the U.N. General Assembly has addressed ongoing problems that have been neglected.
U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told U.N. News he recognizes that the pandemic has brought to light the unjust acts that are currently being covered by news outlets. This includes unequal access to education and racially motivated crimes. Discrimination is strongly prohibited by the U.N., but is still a constant recurrence worldwide. Senior Megan Ruff, president of the NAU Model U.N. club, said she will be advocating for various issues on Peace Day. “I will be using the International Day of Peace to be advocating for causes that I believe must be addressed before there is any kind of peace in the world,” Ruff said in an email interview. “This includes Black Lives Matter, movements to save the planet and other human rights causes.” Recently, a growing number United States citizens are becoming increasingly aware of climate change and discimination and inequality. Racial discrimination has pushed people to get involved with movements that support equality for all. Although Secretary-General Guterres said he is adamant that COVID-19 should be the world’s common enemy, one NAU student said citizens should take a closer look at what is happening within the systems that hold power. Senior Chris Garza, head delegate of the NAU Model U.N. club, said citizens should examine the systems within the U.N. Continue reading on page 18
SEPTEMBER 24, 2020 - SEPTEMBER 30, 2020 | THE LUMBERJACK
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CULTURE “I wish more people had a better understanding of what peace is,” Garza said in an email interview. “It’s more than joining hands and singing songs. We should really be examining the systems and power structures that prevent justice from being enacted, which therefore prevents peace from being achieved.” This day is devoted to strengthening values of justice and peace. Every year, International Day of Peace holds a different theme. Last year’s theme was “Climate Action for Peace,” which brought awareness to the forefront. Due to the pandemic, this year’s theme is “Shaping Peace Together.” The purpose is to stand with other countries around the globe as each country is working to control the pandemic. International Day of Peace also calls for the traditional ringing of the Peace Bell located at the U.N. headquarters in New York City. Japan gifted this bell to the U.N. when they were not yet welcomed into the organization. The Peace Bell symbolizes the hope for peace between all nations. Senior and NAU Model U.N. member Kassidy Sanders said International Day of Peace should be a day that should always be celebrated year-round. “International Day of Peace should be a model for every day or every month of the year,” Sanders said in an email interview. “War and violence is never the answer to global conflict, and it should not be accepted as a viable solution.” Sanders said this day should act as a time for the U.N. governing bodies to reflect on how they are contributing to a nonpeaceful world, and work to educate and better themselves so they can be the peaceful body they aspire to and claim to be. International Day of Peace is a shared holiday where all sovereign states commit to peace and celebrate the differences between each culture. This day not only creates a period when ongoing struggles can be discussed and resolved, but it also creates a time and day where improvement is sought after.
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One of five Peace Poles in Flagstaff, Ariz. and part of an ongoing citizen movement. Member Caroline Bame reflects before walk to Peace Pole Dedication in Heritage Square on Sept. 21, 2018: “We may not have world peace, but we can have peace right where we are in our sphere of influence.” MacKenzie Brower | The Lumberjack
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CULTURE
returning to fall with seasonal festivities lisa hall
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he smell of the air begins to change, leaves turn orange and red and the heat fades into chilling breeze. Morning coffees are needed hot instead of iced, and bringing a jacket everywhere is appropriate. With the weather changing, it’s time to appreciate the fall festivities. With the changing weather comes a time for new activities. Junior Renae Beckmann said she gets excited when autumn comes around every year. “I get excited for the fall flavors associated with food and drinks,” Beckmann said. “I used to never like pumpkin-flavored things, but this year I am vibing with pumpkin flavors. I’m also enjoying apple flavors, such as apple cider and pie.” Starbucks is a favorite for many, including Beckmann, and the fall menu is just one thing that makes them eager for more. When pumpkin and salted caramel specialties return, some Starbucks customers get excited for this seasonal treat. “Our menu appears with all the fall drinks,” senior Lexi Sanchez, morning supervisor for Starbucks at University Union, said. “As soon as we run out of summer promotion, we change to the fall menu to get everyone into the season changes with drinks.” Sanchez said the most popular drinks on the menu are the salted caramel mocha and the pumpkin cream cold brew. Even though Starbucks is known for its drinks, the coffee shop also has a variety of treats. Sanchez said the most popular food item for this time of year is the pumpkin scone, but her personal favorite is the pumpkin cream cheese muffin. Starbucks and pumpkin go hand-in-hand this time of year. Just ask for a shot of pumpkin syrup in any drink and baristas will deliver. Starbucks released its fall menu early this year, and Sanchez said she looks forward to the changes that fall brings as frenzies of students swarm the stand to get their pumpkinflavored drinks. “I wait year-round for it to get released,” Sanchez said. “I was so excited when it got released early this year.” Pumpkins are a well-known symbol for fall and going to a pumpkin patch is a classic way to spend some time with friends and family. Hanging out at a pumpkin patch can always be an opportunity for a date with a significant other, or a photo-op with friends. Either way, a pumpkin patch provides a time to make memories with others. Beckmann said she usually tries going to a pumpkin patch. Other activities she said she enjoys are going to haunted houses around Halloween with friends. Viola’s Pumpkin Patch opens Saturday Oct. 3 and is an opportunity for community members to get into the fall spirit. The pumpkin patch has thousands of pumpkins on site. Games and face painting were offered in the past, but due to COVID-19, the business will not be offering these this year to take proper safety precautions. Manager Jessie Bangle said there will possibly be a corn maze if the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines will allow for this activity. Mask wearing will also be enforced at the pumpkin patch. “We are requiring masks,” Bangle said. “We are allowing
Illustration By christian ayala
people to take pictures with the masks off as long as they practice social distancing.” Visitors should wear their masks while in motion, and practice social distancing from other groups when not wearing a mask. The pumpkin patch is a popular attraction for locals and tourists. Bangle said there were over 10,000 visitors last year. Although numbers were expected to drop, employees have seen an increase in phone calls and emails regarding opening dates, which leads them to believe they could have a potentially normal amount of visitors this year. “If we get a lot of customers, we’ll probably end up limiting the amount of people allowed in the pumpkin patch to enforce social distancing guidelines,” Bangle said. With the changing seasons, this is a chance for people to
enjoy what the business has to offer. The fall season is the favorite time of year for employees, so they put a lot of effort and work into the pumpkin patch to make it as great as can be for visitors. Some people have different ways of enjoying the fall. They may have traditions, spend more time outdoors or just participate in the holidays associated with this new season. Beckmann said she chooses to binge Hallmark movies to get her in the fall spirit, and she also likes to decorate the house with her family to prepare. Fall is a special time of great food, fun activities and lots of memories. There are still many ways to safely enjoy the fall season. However one may choose to spend this time, they should enjoy the season before it passes.
SEPTEMBER 24, 2020 - SEPTEMBER 30, 2020 | THE LUMBERJACK
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SPORTS
An asteriskplagued College Football Playoff
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ith the Big Ten Conference rapidly moving toward an October start for this year’s college football season, and the Pac-12 Conference sure to follow, normalcy is beginning to return to the world of football. What began as a scattered mess, some conferences opted to postpone the fall football season until spring due to COVID-19 concerns. While others opted for a much sooner return in the fall, no true champion could be crowned. Now, with the Power Five conferences all eyeing an end to their seasons in December, the chances of a College Football Playoff featuring each Power Five conference is greatly improving. The legitimacy of a national champion in this year’s CFB Playoff was KADE a question before because of the schedule REED split. Now that each major conference is WRITER getting ready to realign their schedules, the legitimacy question mark should be gone, right? Well, not entirely. Due to the Big Ten and, most likely the Pac-12, starting their seasons between late October and early November, the teams in those respective conferences will have significantly shorter regular season schedules than the conferences who began their season in September. With only four teams chosen to compete in the playoffs and nonconference games off the table in the regular season, there is no real way to tell which four teams deserve to be in the playoffs. This is a problem in itself along with game cancellations due to COVID-19. There have already been a number of games that have been canceled or postponed due to outbreaks on the teams and among the players. Last year’s national champion, Louisiana State University, had a number of cases as a team and although most of these cases did happen during the offseason, that still begs the question — what happens if a serious title contender misses a chunk of games because of COVID-19? With all the unknowns still to come this season, crowning a national champion will be nearly impossible. In most situations, choosing a qualified team to compete in the playoff is a challenge, but now with all the added variables, including different schedule lengths, how can a legitimate top four be reasonably decided? A word that I hate when it comes to sports needs to be discussed: “asterisk.” Putting an asterisk on a sports championship erases the validity of the win, and is done so by fans or even the leagues when the playing fields are not equal for each and every team. With so many uncontrolled variables this college football season, there is no way every team can have the same playing field. For me, no matter who comes out on top, there is an asterisk on this season.
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Northland Prepatory Academy Girls’ Volleyball head coach Corie Murphy poses for a photo, Sept. 16. Shawn Patti | The Lumberjack
Passion takes practice through a pandemic Molly Smith
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ith the pandemic deeply settled in, there is a glimmer of hope for sports in Flagstaff — Corie Murphy, newly-appointed head coach of girls’ varsity volleyball at Northland Preparatory Academy (NPA). Murphy grew up playing volleyball in Washington state and quickly found herself playing at Eastern Washington University. After her second season as an Eagle, an injury ended her playing career. Injured or not, keeping her away from the game she loved was nearly impossible. As a young college student, she took her knowledge and
passion for the game to a nearby high school and led the team to the 2A state tournament in back-to-back years. Her success allowed her to pick up a few more coaching positions from high schools to club teams. After graduation, Murphy upgraded to an assistant coaching job at the University of Idaho, where she met her husband Ken Murphy, who is the current head coach of NAU Volleyball. In 2006, Murphy continued pursuing her passion in volleyball. She became the operations manager for University Athlete, a software database that is a college coach’s one-stopshop for the recruiting process. Fourteen years later, how does she get back into the coaching game? With the NAU Women’s
SPORTS Volleyball team. Murphy grew up with a father who coached Little League Baseball. She saw his dedication and ties to the community and thought there was nothing like youth volleyball in the northern Arizona region. With the help of other community members, Murphy began a camp for young athletes to learn the game and master the craft. “Volleyball is competitive from a young age and it makes learning how to play difficult for amateurs,” Murphy said. Her nostalgic vision and implementation was cut short by COVID-19 closures enforced all around the country. Despite the camp closure, her efforts did not go unnoticed. A friend told Murphy that NPA was looking for a new coach and she quickly claimed the position. NPA athletic director Mike Elder said the hiring process was different this year. A panel consisted of a graduating player, returning player and possible colleagues of the interviewee. Murphy swept the panel by storm and the decision to hire her was a no-brainer. “Her background sure is impressive, but her passion is what stood out to everyone,” Elder said. “I’m excited to see her bond with the team.” Murphy said learning the ropes of coaching at a new program has its own obstacles, but adding the COVID-19 outbreak adds hoops no one has experienced.
“Getting familiar with a new team takes spending a lot of time together, but it is hard to do that with masks and constant social distancing,” Murphy said. “It may not be the ideal way to warm up to one another but we are taking the precautions to keep this team healthy.” Elder said the amount of changes happening in sports is overwhelming, but necessary. He said he feels for the girls’ volleyball team, especially when it comes to away games where opposing spectators are prohibited. Elder also discussed how challenging and interesting this upcoming season will be for the team. “They don’t have home-court advantage or their fans supporting in the stands,” Elder said. “Their friends and family took the power of home-court advantage away a little bit so this season will bring unique challenges.” The freshly constructed team has been practicing since the first week of September, but school began remote learning Aug. 17. Murphy talked about how much of a positive it is to see the team together again. “It’s nice to see practice is the place for the team to be social again,” Murphy said. “They haven’t seen their friends or classmates, so this is their outage.” Remote learning has impacted Murphy directly. She has two children, in fourth and sixth grade, and their opposite
personalities pay testament to the wavering reactions to this school year, she said. The downtime for Murphy, her husband and children has allowed the family to spend extra time together, doing things they may not usually do with their typically busy schedules. “We went to Lake Powell for the first time,” Murphy said with a laugh. “Ken is usually traveling and the kids have events that make planning trips hard.” The country has experienced a whirlwind of changes in 2020 that have affected many U.S. citizens. Murphy said she is using these changes in a way to project fresh adventures for herself and her family. She is using the downtime to connect with her players and prepare for the season through advantages the pandemic indirectly gave her. “I’d like my husband and I to coordinate something to get both teams [NPA and NAU] on the court together,” Murphy said. “With their [NAU] shifted season, I think it’s something we can do.” The NAU Volleyball team will not play this fall. Instead, they are continuing their training to prepare for their season that is postponed to spring 2021. Meanwhile, the NPA girls will continue to practice for their games and begin competing before the end of September.
Left: NAU Volleyball head coach Ken Murphy talks to his team during a timeout, Nov. 7, 2019. Brian Burke| The Lumberjack Right: An NAU Volleyball player attempts a spike during a game against Louisiana State University, Sept. 13. Michael Patacsil| The Lumberjack
SEPTEMBER 24, 2020 - SEPTEMBER 30, 2020 | THE LUMBERJACK
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