The Lumberjack -- October 7, 2021

FIGHTING FOR REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS PAGES 4-7 THE LUMBER JACK OCT. 7, 2021 – OCT. 13 2021

Online at JackCentral.org

From the Editor

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re you guys ready for some hard-hitting commentary from the guy who runs the News for The Lumberjack? No? Yeah, me too, to be quite honest. I hate writing these as much as the next guy, because everyone expects me to dive into this deep psychological issue that I can only solve. Well, they’re not necessarily wrong I mean if Steak-Umm, a frozen steaks brand can debate Neil deGrasse Tyson about the complexities of our solar system on Twitter, I think I can talk about the complexities surrounding the world of social media and how we currently consume media is bad for us.

But I hate to break it to you, I can’t. I’m not allowed to offer my opinions as that would be a conflict of interest for me, but sorry Nathan. The people MARK are asking for it.

FABERY So here it goes. In the times of uncertainty and misinformation: Anecdotes NEWS EDITOR are truly not data. All good data is carefully measured and collected based on a wide range of factors, including, but not limited to, controlled variables, meta analysis and randomization outliers attempting to counter global consensus around this pandemic.

The internet is filled with online sleuths and amateur reporting, but they are not collecting data.

Breaking news stories, the ones I help break, only report the initial findings of an event. We have to be careful in our media consumption as it can be spun with interpretative bias from different media perspectives.

I hope you remember this, so we can all avoid fear-based sensationalism or conspiracy theories being spread by your Uncle Ricky during Thanksgiving dinner. Don’t let these take over your mind, as you can maintain an independent, critical-thinking view toward institutions without having to dip into fringe conspiracies that have been created by individuals spreading anecdotes being virally spread as data. It’s not easy, but I mean we survived Facebook and its applications being down for half a day.

It’s possible.

You’ve just been schooled by Father Mark. Bless.

Thank you for reading.

THE LUMBERJACK VOL. 112 ISSUE 7

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

Editor-in-Chief Nathan Manni

Managing Editor Camille Sipple

Copy Chief Trevor Skeen

Faculty Adviser David Harpster

Print Chief Ash Lohmann

Director of Digital Content and Social Media Emily Gerdes

Stay up to date with Flagstaff City council updates online at jackcentral.org

Online at Issuu.com Latest Edition & Archive Social media

Media Innovation Center Editorial Board News Editor Mark Fabery Asst. News Editor Tess Stafford Op-Ed Editor Kylie Soto Asst. Op-Ed Editor Marley Green Features Editor Olivia Charlson

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Asst. Features Editor Lauren Anderson

Sports Adviser Rory Faust

Culture Editor Katelyn Rodriguez

Director of Photography MacKenzie Brower

Asst. Culture Editor Haylee Emch

Asst. Dir. of Photography Brian Burke

Sports Editor Brenden Martin

Director of Illustration Diana Ortega

Asst. Sports Editor Will Hopkins

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Director of Multimedia Shawn Patti

On the cover Protesters march and chant at the Flagstaff Women’s March, Oct. 2.

Owen Sexton | The Lumberjack

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

PoliceBeat Sept. 27 At 1:34 p.m., a Social and Behavioral Sciences faculty member reported a student had passed out. NAUPD, Flagstaff Fire Department (FFD) and Guardian Medical Transport (GMT) responded, and the student was transported to FMC.

At 10:29 p.m., a Taylor Hall RA reported damage to a dryer. NAUPD responded and took a report.

Sept. 28 At 9:11 a.m., a Reilly Hall RA reported the theft of couch cushions. NAUPD responded and took a report.

At 10:08 a.m., a nonstudent reported a building with an open door at lot 1D. NAUPD responded and contacted two nonstudents.

Officers arrested one subject, who was booked into Coconino County Detention Facility for aggravated assault, failure to identify themselves, obstructing a public thoroughfare and possession of drug paraphernalia.

At 7:14 p.m., a Student and Academic Services staff member reported a suspicious person in the area. NAUPD responded, but the subject left prior to officer arrival.

Sept. 29 At 12:16 a.m., a McConnell Hall resident reported a stolen backpack.

NAUPD responded and took a report. However, the student later advised officers the backpack was not stolen, and the report was unfounded.

At 6:51 p.m., a student reported a noninjury traffic collision in lot 46. NAUPD and University Safety Aides (USAs) responded and took a report.

compiled by Mark Fabery

At 10:26 p.m., NAUPD Oct. 2 reported being out with four At 11:56 a.m., a subjects. One nonstudent was nonstudent reported suspicious cited and released for failure to activity outside Drury Inn & obey a police officer.

Suites. Officers responded and took a report for information Sept. 30 only.

At 2:40 p.m., a nonstudent reported an injured At 7:03 p.m., a student bicyclist outside Sechrist Hall. reported a suspicious odor NAUPD, FFD and GMT in Mountain View Parking responded, and the patient Garage. NAUPD responded refused transport. A personal and found no odor was present. injury report was taken.

At 9:34 p.m., a student At 5:04 p.m., a Cline reported a suspicious person Library employee reported outside Cline Library. a student being threatened. NAUPD responded, but the NAUPD responded and took subject refused to speak with a report for disorderly conduct. the officer.

At 8:10 p.m., an officer reported a possible weapons violation at the Walkup Skydome. Officers responded and searched the area, but no contact was made.

Oct. 3 At 2:34 a.m., a nonstudent reported an impaired driver outside the NAUPD building. Officers responded and the nonstudent was cited and released for DUI At 8:57 p.m., a staff to the slightest degree and member reported subjects DUI above .08. damaging a sign in lot 66A. NAUPD and USAs responded, At 3:46 a.m., a Mountain making contact with five View Hall staff member juvenile nonstudents. reported an intoxicated student.

NAUPD, FFD Oct. 1 and GMT responded. The At 1:19 a.m., USAs student was transported reported a male subject to FMC and deferred for laying on the ground near the minor in consumption of Physical Sciences building. alcohol. Officers deferred a Officers responded and found second student for minor in the nonstudent in good health. consumption of alcohol.

They left campus.

At 8:54 a.m., Cline At 6:44 p.m., University Library received a motion Athletics requested assistance alarm. Officers responded and activating lights at the Walkup searched the area, but learned a Skydome practice fields. staff member set off the alarm.

NAUPD responded and provided assistance.

At 10:27 p.m., a McKay Village resident reported a At 10:28 p.m., a student hit their head on a nonstudent reported another fan. NAUPD, FFD and GMT nonstudent had fallen outside responded, and the student the du Bois Center. NAUPD, was transported to FMC. FFD and GMT responded, and the subject was transported to FMC.

Total Number of COVID-19 Vaccine Doses Administered: 159,444 Total number of people who have recieved at least one dose of COVId-19 vaccine: 87,202 Percent of population fully Vaccinated: 27% Community Transmission Rate: High Number of current positive cases: 380

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OCT. 7 - OCT. 13, 2021 | THE LUMBERJACK

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Students and locals flood Flagstaff

Protesters prepare to cross Dupont Avenue on NAU’s north campus after beginning their march at University Union, Oct. 2.

Owen Sexton | The Lumberjack

Mark Fabery, Daisy Johnston & Sophia Swainson

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n a sunny October afternoon, NAU students joined Flagstaff residents on the front lawn of Flagstaff City Hall to protest the Supreme Court’s decision to reject an emergency request to block Texas’ abortion ban.

The run-up to the protest The Flagstaff Women’s March was one of roughly 500 identical marches planned throughout the country Oct. 2. These demonstrations were held to harness the political power of diverse women and their communities in creating transformative social change, according to the Women’s March official website.

NAU graduate student Karina Cocks is one of five women who organized the protest. Cocks explained the Supreme Court’s decision showed the courts willingness to overturn 1973’s Roe v.

Wade, which legalized abortion in all 50 states.

“When the Supreme Court rejected an emergency request to block Texas’ abortion ban, they effectively took the next step toward overturning Roe v. Wade,” Cocks said. “Simply put, we are witnessing the most dire threat to

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abortion access in our lifetime. That’s why we’re marching in every single state and in our nation’s capital, Washington, D.C., on Oct. 2 before the Supreme Court reconvenes. We need to send an unmistakable message about our fierce opposition to restricting abortion access and overturning Roe v. Wade before it’s too late.”

Moreover, Cocks said a few factors contributed to her research in orchestrating this protest, which ultimately led to her learning about the Oct. 2 march on the nation’s capital.

After diving into the Women’s March official website, Cocks connected with two women’s rights activists who had the same plan: to march on Flagstaff City Hall.

“As soon as I learned about the Supreme Court decision to allow Texas’ abortion ban to go into effect, I was appalled to see that women in Texas can’t have access to an abortion, without an exception for rape or incest,” Cocks said.

“I immediately decided to do some research about planned marches, and I learned about the Women’s March scheduled for Oct. 2 in Washington, D.C. The website allowed me to start an event here in Flagstaff, and that’s where I got in contact with Marilyn Welssman and Sarah Hunter — who have been a tremendous help with the planning process — because this is my first protest that I have organized. That’s how important this issue is to me and women

“We need to send an unmistakable message about our fierce opposition to restricting abortion access and overturning Roe v. Wade before it’s too late.”

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– NAU Graduate Student Karina Cocks

everywhere.”

“Get your rosary off my ovaries” Scores of protesters initially gathered near the University Union Starbucks holding signs with phrases such as “Girls just want to have FUN-damental human rights” and “Reproductive rights are human rights.” As the group of roughly 200 students marched toward city hall to make their voices heard and listen to speakers, the university pedway erupted in chants ranging from “get your rosary off my ovaries” to “out of your dorms and into the streets” as they made their way to South Beaver Street.

The march was relatively peaceful as protesters were met with honks of support from passing vehicles. However, the demonstrators also faced occasional opposition: Some chanted “Pro-life!” as they made their way downtown.

The marchers reached the front lawn of city hall, never stopping their chants. They were greeted with more support from drivers on Route 66 and engaged peacefully with counterprotesters.

Sam Copeland, organizer of Flagstaff’s 40 Days for Life anti-abortion campaign,

NEWS

streets in a call for women’s rights joined other counter-protesters to voice that they were saddened by the Women’s March.

Copeland described the protest as a result of misunderstanding and confusion, and hoped portraying his side would lead to feelings of peace, truth and healing.

“A perfect law is based on God and his natural laws,” Copeland said.

Flagstaff Planned Parenthood organizing manager Desiree Perez demonstrated support, while also discussing the importance of the Planned Parenthood location in Flagstaff — the only location in northern Arizona with the ability to provide a safe abortion.

“I am out here today to speak out against laws that take away our ability to make choices

to decide what happens to our bodies and our futures,” Perez said. “It’s already very difficult to get an abortion if you live in northern Arizona; Flagstaff Planned Parenthood is the only abortion provider that I know of that is north of the greater Phoenix area.”

However, Perez said they are hopeful for the future, because they believe young women across the country will register to vote and organize to get what they called “anti-abortion extremists” out of office come the 2022 midterm elections.

“When I see the outrage and the power at these marches across the country and here in Flagstaff, it gives me hope that we are going to organize, we are going to register voters, we are

going to share our stories without shame and we are going to vote anti-abortion extremists out without shame in 2022,” Perez said.

Keith Brekhus, district director for United States Representative Tom O’Halleran, was one of a few speakers at the protest on behalf of the congressman, who was stuck on Capitol Hill to cast a vote for an unspecified bill.

Brekhus used his time to champion O’Halleran’s record, specifically in regard to him being an original co-sponser of the Protect Women’s Health Act, which he said to be the most far-reaching piece of legislation in congressional history, regarding the protection of abortion rights.

After Brekhus finished his speech, the

crowd was treated to a selection of music from local artists, including senior Sierra Bryan and a poetry reading from sophomore Avery Jones, the winner of the Firecreek Coffee Company Women’s March Poetry Slam that was held Sept.

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A woman’s and people’s march As thousands of Women’s Marches were held across the country on Oct. 2, several queer communities questioned their representation alongside the fight for reproductive rights. Many LGBTQ+ allies and activists said they believed the pro-choice movement has a blind spot in matters Continue reading on page 6.

Around 150 protesters made the march all the way from NAU to city hall.

Owen Sexton | The Lumberjack

OCT. 7 - OCT. 13, 2021 | THE LUMBERJACK

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NEWS regarding people who have reproductive organs and do not identify as women.

Not every person with reproductive organs is a woman and likewise, not every woman has reproductive organs. Slogans expressed at the march on Saturday such as “pro-women, prochoice” and “stand with women” did not include people of different genders who are also capable of pregnancy.

Freshman Gideon Beauchamp, who attended the march on Saturday, expressed their thoughts on the intersectionality between queer issues and reproductive rights.

“People kind of gatekeep women’s rights when it affects more than just women; it also affects trans people,” Beauchamp said.

“Women are not the only people who need abortions. I just think we should bring more awareness to the fact that abortions, birth control and everything like that under women’s rights also affect other people.”

Beauchamp said the Supreme Court’s refusal to block new restrictions on abortions in Texas is not just a threat to women, but humankind in general.

The acronym TERF, coined in 2008, stands for Trans-Exclusionary Radical Feminist.

While many anti-transgender feminists openly sided with the TERF movement in the ’70s, the group prefers to be called gender critical today. A common belief held by gender-critical feminists is that the movement to include noncisgender women in the feminist movement erases women’s oppression.

Beauchamp said making space for the wide variety of people who are affected by reproductive rights is not erasing women’s struggles, but is expanding the movement to fit a more diverse group.

“Including gender-neutral terms in the fight for reproductive equality is not erasing femininity, but simply extending the fight to other people it affects,” Beauchamp said.

With many different Pride flags and buttons being worn at the protest, Flagstaff’s queer community was represented among the fight for reproductive rights.

A march from the heart Across the lawn of city hall, emotions were still evident on masked faces chanting in opposition to Texas’ new law. Many protesters, like Carlton Sheppard, voiced strong feelings of connection to the intimate nature of this issue.

“This is something that is personal; it cannot be judicial,” Sheppard said. “The idea that someone can tell me what I cannot do with my body is so repugnant. It is so completely unAmerican.”

Sheppard, who has protested for reproductive rights for the past 50 years,

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described the bill’s passage as a step into the past, and one that pushes Texas out of alignment with reality. She explained the continuing need for women to fight for their reproductive rights as disgraceful to the country.

“Why are these elderly white men still determining what millions of women in this country are able to do?” Sheppard questioned.

“It’s just wrong. It always has been wrong.”

Other protesters, including Brenda Judia, shared Sheppard’s sentiment that after years of protest, women’s reproductive rights should be guaranteed. Judia passionately called for change, which she described as long overdue.

“I’m angry!” Judia said. “This is the wrong

“Why are these eldery white men still determining what millions of women in this country are able to do? It’s just wrong. It’s always been wrong.”

– Carlton Sheppard, women’s march protester decade to be doing this.”

Another protester, junior Analise Thomas, felt similarly to Judia. For Thomas, the topic of women’s reproductive rights is especially provoking. She explained that through the significant student turnout, people might begin to understand how strongly she and others feel about defending their rights and creating a better future.

Among the pro-abortion rights advocates were anti-abortion supporters who also made an appearance, but not in counter-protest; instead, they joined impassioned chants demanding the overturn of Texas’ Heartbeat Bill. Sarah Stanco, who identified herself as a anti-abortion supporter, said she believes anyone who perceives the bill as a good idea would benefit from more empathy, despite religious connections to the issue.

“We have to stand by our women,” Stanco said. “Especially our low-income women who get stuck with these children. The last thing our society needs is more unwanted children that these Republican senators and congressmen don’t ever want to support. They don’t ever want to help the social services. Why would you want them to have the baby and then deprive them

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Avery Jones, both a poetry contest winner and a sophomore studying English literature at NAU, shares her work with the crowd, Oct. 2. Owen Sexton | The Lumberjack

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of support?”

Stanco was not alone in experiencing conflicting emotions: Religious connection to the anti-abortion movement and empathy toward those protesting Texas’ bill.

Catherine Guttuso, who also identified as a supporter of ani-abortion, described negative feelings about aspects of the bill, including punishing a woman who gets an abortion due to rape more severely than the man who raped her.

“It’s criminal!” Guttuso said. “That’s why that Texas law is wrong. The woman shouldn’t be punished for being raped.”

People of widely varying backgrounds

came together to fight Texas’ law, resulting in an emotionally charged protest with visions of hope at its core. Sophomore Caroline Reed described her vision of the outcome.

Reed said she hopes Arizona legislators will understand the public does not agree with any potential laws similar to the bill passed in Texas. She explained those participating in the protests are persistent and will not stop voicing their beliefs until their rights are secured. Reed passionately urged lawmakers to respect women’s reproductive rights.

“Get your laws off my p***y,” Reed said.

“Get your laws off my p***y.”

– Sophomore caroline Reed

Left: NAU senior and environmental major Sierra Bryan sings and plays for the protesters, Oct. 2. Right: Protesters look on as multiple speakers took the stage at the Flagstaff Women’s March, Oct. 2. Owen Sexton | The Lumberjack

OCT. 7 - OCT. 13, 2021 | THE LUMBERJACK

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NEWS

Flagstaff Medical Center remains close to capacity Alison Crane

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lagstaff Mayor Paul Deasy tweeted a chart taken from the COVID-19 Coconino County Schools update on Sept. 17, which showed Flagstaff Medical Center (FMC) as having no open beds.

“Our hospital is full,” Deasy tweeted. “We are at a critical point. This isn’t just about getting COVID. This affects all injuries and illnesses people are facing in our community who need healthcare. #MASKUPAZ.” According to a KAFF News interview with FMC Chief Medical Officer Dr. Derek Feuquay, 14 beds opened in FMC about two hours after this report was published. He also explained how statements such as the mayor’s carry the risk of spreading unnecessary concern about the state of the pandemic.

On Sept. 20, Deasy posted an additional tweet to provide updated information on hospital capacity. Attached were several reports showing an increase in positive cases of COVID-19 within FMC. Additionally, Deasy presented a series of tables and a statement from the Coconino County Department of Health

and Human Services (CCHHS), which showed the ICU in FMC had reached maximum capacity.

Another edition of the COVID-19 Coconino County Schools update, released Sept. 24, showed FMC had seven available beds, none of which are located in its emergency department.

According to a CCHHS report published Sept. 24, Flagstaff has seen an 85% increase in COVID-19 cases throughout September, resulting in 12,686 positive cases since the beginning of the pandemic. More positive cases likely means more hospital beds will be occupied, and thus needed.

This issue is exacerbated by the fact that FMC is the only level one trauma center in northern Arizona. Due to this classification, FMC has handled a significant amount of COVID-19 cases throughout the pandemic from across Coconino County. In fact, many of the 1,500-plus Coconino County residents hospitalized from the disease were treated at FMC, and those currently needing medical attention may require admission.

If the hospital reaches capacity, NAU

Assistant Director of Communications Heidi Toth said the school is confident in the strength of Flagstaff’s community health systems.

“The health care providers at Campus Health Services are happy to see patients with any medical conditions if they are sick or injured and unsure where to go for care,” Toth said. “A medical provider can treat individuals here on campus, or can advise them to go to the hospital if their symptoms require a higher level of care.

Campus Health Services typically provides care for minor injuries, upper respiratory symptoms, lacerations or abrasions and many other medical issues.”

Toth said she remains confident in the ability of FMC and other providers to care not only for the city, but for the region as a whole.

Toth encouraged NAU students to get vaccinated and reminded the Flagstaff community of the university providing vaccinations for any and all residents, regardless of their association with the school.

“NAU students can help prevent hospitals from getting overcrowded in the future by taking good care of their own health — get vaccinated for all vaccine-preventable diseases, wear a mask,

eat healthy foods, get enough sleep, don’t drink too much alcohol and wash your hands,” Toth said.

If they experience any of the following symptoms after testing positive for COVID-19, Toth said students should go to the hospital immediately: Trouble breathing; new confusion; persistent pain or pressure in the chest; the inability to wake up or to stay awake; and pale, gray or blue-colored skin, lips or nail beds — depending on skin tone.

In his interview with KAFF News, Feuquay said FMC will always provide service for members of the Flagstaff community in need.

Though FMC may continue to see occasional instances of overcrowding, residents who received both doses of the COVID-19 vaccine should have less concern. According to the Sept. 24 CCHHS report, the vaccine is working as intended with breakthrough cases comprising only 3.7% of current infections in Coconino County. Vaccine appointments can be made at a number of locations throughout the region.

A sign directs people toward the Flagstaff Medical Center emergency room, Sept. 24. Due to a recent surge in COVID-19 cases in Coconino County, the medical center has begun to run low on beds. Madison Easton| The Lumberjack

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NEWS

Dropping temperatures put homeless lives at risk Daisy Johnston

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hen temperatures begin to drop below 30 degrees, an advisory from the National Weather Service suggests those going outside take precaution to protect themselves from frostbite or hypothermia.

As the weather in Flagstaff is predicted to reach 33 degrees within the next few weeks, people living on the streets will begin to migrate to shelters or leave northern Arizona altogether.

Those who do not find shelter can face serious risks to their physical and mental health.

Rick Brust, outreach coordinator for Catholic Charities and Projects for Assistance in Transition from Homelessness, works alongside people without homes who also have mental illness. Catholic Charities provides several community services for Arizona’s unhoused population such as shelters, outreach programs and affordable housing opportunities. In previous years, it has not been uncommon for outreach groups to rescue people from extreme cold.

“This was during a blizzard,” Brust said. “They actually found a gentleman all the way at the end just kind of sitting down with his knees against his chest rocking back and forth. [He] did not have any shoes or socks on — he was wearing shorts and just a T-shirt.”

The volunteers, who found this individual in a tunnel off South Milton Road, were able to get him to safety. He was later diagnosed with schizophrenia and, after a year of assistance, found housing and a job.

Not all outreach attempts, however, are as successful. Being stuck without shelter in belowfreezing temperatures is a serious health hazard.

“Worst-case scenario, people have expired,” Brust said. “I’ve run across some of those cases. One blizzard, we had checked that tunnel a night before, and the next night we were searching within the tunnel and

along one of the walls a man was expired.”

Shelters in Flagstaff receive a surplus of folks looking for assistance during the colder weather, so local churches have been working to accommodate the overflow.

Despite these attempts to provide as many unhoused people as possible an alternative to living outside during colder seasons, much of the homeless population will stay on the streets.

Brust said those caught outside in the winter are a mixture of two scenarios: People who were unable to make it to shelter and others who prefer not to stay in them.

“There’s folks that might be substance abusers,” Brust said. “It gets to where they would rather have their fix then go to the shelter.

You can’t have any of that when you get to the shelter, or they might misjudge the time or the temperature and think they were in a safe spot.”

Furthermore, Brust said access to

rehabilitation programs in Flagstaff can be limited. Those who want to get sober through inpatient programs will first need to work on enrolling and securing a spot.

In past years, Flagstaff locals have resorted to NAU for shelter during the colder weather.

Sophomore Cheyenne Sullivan said while living in Allen Hall during the 2020-21 school year, she saw a man without a home seeking shelter in one of the hallways.

“In the middle of winter last year, a homeless guy had gotten into the hallway and was just sleeping,” Sullivan said. “While I get and understand that, they can’t just let random people in the building and stay. People were laughing about it and making jokes about it in the dorm group chat. Probably his first choice was not to come stay in a hallway and sleep on the floor, [but] it was freezing cold outside.”

Sullivan said police

eventually responded and removed the man, although she was unsure of where he was taken.

She said the instance was a reminder not to take necessities, such as warmth and housing, for granted.

Moreover, Brust said homelessness can happen to anyone. Some people receiving services from Catholic Charities were once financially successful and independent.

“Somebody that was a stockbroker made six figures back in the day, but then lost it all overnight,” Brust said. “There is no discrimination when it comes to homelessness.”

Additionally, Brust said resources become more difficult to access in rural areas. For those living in outlying parts of Coconino County, outreach groups will be far less common than they will be in Flagstaff.

For more information about Catholic Charities, visit the website for chances to volunteer across Arizona.

Illustration By Tonesha Yazzie

OCT. 7 - OCT. 13, 2021 | THE LUMBERJACK

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NEWS

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COMIC SPOT

“Autumn leaves shower like gold, like rainbows, as the winds of change begin to blow."

– Dan Millman, American Author

Photo by Madison Easton | The Lumberjack

Madison Easton | The Lumberjack

OCT. 7- OCT. 13, 2021 | THE LUMBERJACK

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OPINION-EDITORIAL

Capitalism blurs our self-perception Sydney Staniec

Starship: Why not give the job to a student?

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s life continues to tumble down the path of a mid- to postpandemic world, the idea of contactless delivery is enticing to some — partially for safety reasons but also to eliminate hourly wages.

NAU is already paying level one and two employees $12 hourly, per Career Development, compared to Flagstaff’s $15 MICHAEL minimum wage. This gives the university MCCLURE more flexibility in hiring employees and sustaining a realistic financial base.

OP-ED WRITER According to an interview with Starship CEO Lex Bayer, which was conducted by European website Sifted, the unit price of these bots is roughly $5,500 — depending on the order size.

NAU initially purchased a fleet of 30, although this figure grew as operations expanded.

This means there are hundreds of thousands of dollars being used to fund these delivery robots, along with increasing maintenance expenses as the fleet begins to age.

In short, this money can easily be redistributed toward a fund that aims to provide students with an opportunity to deliver food via walking, biking and driving.

Having an employment option much like Instacart or UberEats, wherein the deliverer can choose to log on and work when they desire, would allow for maximum flexibility. This would also provide bountiful opportunities to students who have complex schedules that prevent them from maintaining the normal 9-to-5 work week.

As mentioned by Starship on University of Houston's website, average delivery times for the robots hover right above 30 minutes.

On an 829-acre campus with ample roadways, foot and bike paths and communal housing, response times using human labor can be dramatically reduced.

One last, major concern is inclimate weather as winter approaches in Flagstaff. While snow storms creep in, the ability to deliver on time will be threatened. Giving the job of delivery to a student with a vehicle would lessen this concern as well, ensuring that delivery is possible with the use of reliable transportation.

Although the robots are undoubtedly impressive, the student body should not rely on them to deliver food. Instead, the NAU community should favor giving the responsibility to students looking for work.

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ulling all-nighters, waking up in the middle of the night with anxiety and working until complete exhaustion is not uncommon for college students.

It is now the norm for students to overwork themselves.

We are expected to have good grades and participate in extracurriculars, all while maintaining some semblance of a social life. Many of us have to juggle a part-time job at the same time.

College students are under intense pressure, plagued with the idea they aren’t good enough. Many feel they aren’t living up to the expectations capitalism has set for them and only believe they’re contributing to society if they are overextending themselves.

Capitalism thrives on the idea of maximum productivity, hard work and being better than the competition.

Growing up, we were obsessed with making sure we were seen as a “good” student rather than a “bad” one. These students would finish their work in the best way possible, but their counterparts wouldn’t.

The system is designed to create competition, which puts pressure on students and young workers to push themselves further.

Anders Hayden, associate professor of political science at Dalhousie University, defined internalized capitalism as “the idea that our productivity is directly linked to our self-worth,” as reported in an article from USA Today.

The same article said this feeling is common among young people due to the pressure they face to succeed and the debt they incur from education and housing.

Internalized capitalism can manifest differently based on privilege. People from more privileged backgrounds may feel the pressure to achieve in order to live up to family expectations, while those from less affluent upbringings may feel similarly, but due to immediate financial struggles.

The same article quoted clinical social worker Nikita Banks, who said internalized capitalism can manifest as burnout, depression and overall dissatisfaction.

"There's never just a time where you're able to sit back and smell the roses or even give yourself

grace for the accomplishments,” Banks said. “The things that you achieved are not enough.”

Living with internalized capitalism is emotionally draining.

Under the influence of capitalism, we are never satisfied — even when we do a good job. Capitalism teaches us we should always strive for more, even if we have given everything we have to offer.

Internalized capitalism can also frame itself as feeling guilty for relaxing or placing health over productivity.

It can also make you feel dissatisfied with yourself, even if you are experiencing pain, sickness or adversity. Internalized capitalism is, quite simply, the reason we are so tired all the time.

For example, even while facing the COVID-19 pandemic, many people were manipulated into feeling lazy for not taking advantage of the time to be productive.

It's no surprise so many young people struggle to find a healthy sense of self-worth, because they are taught to prioritize work over their well-being.

Thus, many pick majors because they anticipate high-paying jobs coming from them, and not because they are passionate about the degree.

The problem with equating productivity to worth is that when we aren’t productive in the way society wants us to be, we feel like we’re failing.

One’s entire sense of self cannot be dependent on what they do on a daily basis.

An openDemocracy article stated workaholics are a natural result of capitalism. However, this doesn't mean being addicted to work should continue to be normalized.

“But in the process of following the rules of capitalism, I have lost my sense of worth and my belief that I deserve happiness,” author Suzannah Weiss wrote. “I have lost my humanity.”

It's easy to say we should prioritize self-care over productivity. However, putting that belief into practice is difficult.

“Practicing courage, compassion and connection in our daily lives is how we cultivate worthiness,” Brené Brown wrote in her book, “The Gifts of Imperfection: Let Go of Who You Think You're Supposed to Be and Embrace Who You Are.” There are ways to combat internalized capitalism.

First, we have to notice and confront its existence.

Then, productivity can be redefined as relative.

For some, it can mean waking up and getting out of bed. For others, it may be cramming the night before a test or running a marathon.

The best way to resist internalized capitalism is to stop comparing yourself to others.

Some argue competition can be healthy, but it can also create insecurity when capitalism is internalized.

It’s time we ask if being the best is truly worth sacrificing our mental well-being.

Illustration By Christian Ayala

OPINION-EDITORIAL

Billionaire space race: Leaving the planet in turmoil Jessie McCann

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ast July, we saw billionaires Richard Branson and Jeff Bezos engage in a private spaceship flight competition.

Since the pandemic started, billionaires have seen their fortunes increase by tens of billions and are continuing to throw money into extravagant projects. Between the catastrophic state of our climate, the spread of diseases and the rates of poverty, any investment in less fortunate people could go a long way, but we have yet to see them go the extra mile toward that.

Space travel has involved massive government projects throughout history, whereas recently, there's been a switch to private industry. This shift only worked to benefit these billionaires' companies, putting them at the forefront of scientific achievement.

The point of this so-called race is said to be “making humanity multiplanetary.”

However, framing this project to be for the good of humanity is a deceiving sentiment.

In reality, it all comes down to billionaires’ potential profits from satellite launches and rocketry firms.

With as unbelievable of a goal as this, their first step to achieving it is space tourism. Reaching a culmination of waste, the companies are in the process of creating tourism programs with unthinkable costs that only cater to th0e richest.

The fact of the matter is that Earth is undeniably in a state of crisis, but space is much worse.

With barely liveable conditions, space inhabitance was not made for the human race; it will take centuries, if ever, before the moon or any other planet can become a home to humans.

A fatal flaw of these plans is that billionaires are rooted in an idealistic way of thinking — they truly believe living in space is the answer to Earth’s rotting. Even then, that is if they are considering the environmental impact they have or if they are simply doing this for their own gain and glory. With Bezos’ carbon footprint resting at 2224.2 tonnes and Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk estimated at 2084 tonnes in 2018, these men prove themselves to be more concerned with company profits than means of sustainability.

Due to the high amount of resources rapidly used, Branson’s and Bezos’ flight programs were only a few minutes long, a fleeting moment in space costing millions; I cannot see how this could be interpreted as a necessary endeavor, above all else.

As far as the exact costs of the spaceships go, Musk’s SpaceX originally spent $1.2 million on lobbying in the first half of 2021, while Bezos gradually increased spending in hopes to beat

Illustration By Jessie Siemens

SpaceX for the $2.9 billion NASA contract.

Although NASA awarded SpaceX the contract for the moon landing project, it was promptly suspended due to legal pressure from Bezos’ company. Nothing screams boredom and greed more than a billionaire begging for billions more.

Critics specifically called out Branson for his focus on selfimage and commercialization of his spaceship program.

He coined himself "Astronaut 001" and provides a spaceflight experience geared toward customers, but he is really only selling the company name.

People are so fed up with financial elites that there is even a petition going around on change.org requesting Bezos not be allowed to return to Earth. Although intangible, the 150,000 signatures exemplify how citizens are reacting to the exploits of the rich.

Instead of providing money and resources to better the planet we live on, these billionaires are preaching a future among outer space. NASA has previously funded earth science initiatives, but funding was repealed by congressional conservatives in an effort to focus on interplanetary exploration. Across the board, billionaires are leading the scene, and preserving the planet is the last thing on their agenda.

The days when accomplished scientists ventured into space for exploration are long over and have been replaced by billionaires’ pursuits to treat space like a new toy.

We are witnessing a dystopian future evolve now more than ever, wherein all we are meant to do is sit back and watch it unfold.

The problems that plague the Earth have yet to be accounted for, and employing space as a method of escape is the least efficient use of spending. Addressing solutions for restoring Earth is much more viable than fleeing it.

OCT. 7- OCT. 13, 2021 | THE LUMBERJACK

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FEATURES

Automobile lovers discover th Jonah Graham

F

rom the rugged Goodrich tires to the rooftop tents, overlanding has been a continually growing hobby pursued by fans of the outdoors and adventures. From built Wranglers and budget-purpose 4Runners to kitted-out Scramblers, overlanding is something anyone can get into with a little elbow grease. The Overland Expo is a great representation of that mentality.

According to Overland Journal, overlanding is defined as self-reliant adventure traveling, generally to explore remote and rough areas with vehicle-supported methods. Overlanding began as a way to herd livestock across vast distances in Australia’s Outback, but has expanded to encompass exploration across

the globe. This can include, but is not limited to, places such as Africa, Mexico, Ireland and even Flagstaff.

Founders Jonathan and Roseann Hanson’s first expo was in Prescott in 2007, according to The Compass. Since then, the popularity has grown into an annual multi-day, various location event that thousands attend. The Overland Expo website now boasts over 400 exhibits which include 300 hours worth of demonstrations, classes, slide shows and activities from over 100 instructors and presenters from everywhere in the world. The expo runs into the night with a film festival and happy hour available to all who attend. People come from all over the world to see and show off creative, innovative builds and tools of the overlanding practice in multiple locations throughout the United States.

The Overland Expo dedicated to the Flagstaff area, hosted at Fort Tuthill and took place Sept. 24-26. Hardcore fans had the oppurtunity to come on Friday, set up their rigs and enjoy the scenery.

Sophomore Garrett

Johnson attended the event with his 2007 Ford F-150. Johnson came with an open mind for everything off road, he said, while looking at other builds and searching for ways to improve his truck.

“I heard about the Overland Expo through social media and off-road exploration YouTubers that I’ve been watching for years,” Johnson said. “I didn’t set many expectations going in, just because this was my first Overland Expo, and honestly it was more than I could’ve ever imagined.”

Johnson said there were hundreds, if not thousands, of people. He and other attendees were present throughout the entire expo experience, ready to be welcomed and embraced by the overlanding culture. Saturday was the biggest day of the event by far, he added.

“My favorite part of the expo was the insane builds and ingenuity,” Johnson said. “Some of these people came up with incredible ideas of how to be more efficient and enjoy the overlanding experience.”

Some larger scale companies also took part in the expo and helped mold the overall experience. Ford came with a heavy

“I didn’t set many expectations going in, just because this was my first Overland Expo, and honestly it was more than I could’ve ever imagined.”

— Sophomore Garrett Johnson

Top Left: A Toyota Tundra showing off its suspension set-up, Sept. 24. Bottom Left: A first-generation Ford Bronco being displayed at the Metal Tech booth, Sept. 24. Right: Toyota Tacomas are another popular vehicle for overlanding transformations, Sept. 24. Jonah Graham | The Lumberjack

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FEATURES

he Overland Expo experience presence, not just at its booth but with multiple stalls displaying Broncos. After a 25-year hiatus, the Bronco has returned to give Jeep, Chevrolet and other competitors a run for their money. Ford also provided test rides through rough, uneven terrain to show off the stock model.

Harley Davidson had a booth dedicated to its new 2021 Pan America 1250 Special. A fresh and purpose-built configuration with nods to the original design, the Pan America is aiming to compete with other top adventure bikes. At the event, Harley representatives described how state-of-the-art the new Pan America is, with double the horsepower and a weight of 534 pounds, along with adjustable front and rear suspension. With a valid motorcycle endorsement, attendees could take the Pan America for a test ride around the course.

Dodge was also present to show off the Dodge Ram TRX, a 702-horsepower beast created to conquer the Ford Raptor and others in its way. Although other manufacturers such as Jeep and Toyota were absent, companies with outfitted Wranglers, Gladiators, Tacomas and Tundras were available for display. As the bar is constantly raised higher, manufacturers play tug-of-war in an attempt to win customers.

On the opposite side of the manufacturers, vehicle builders were in attendance, showing off hot-rodded versions of classic and modern vehicles with the overlanding twist. Everything from Defenders ready for the Rocky Mountains to Landcruisers prepared for safaris was showcased at the event.

Owner of Overland Cruisers, Johnny Schaefer, has made a career modifying and improving classic Toyotas.

“We do everything from disassembling them down to every little last bolt and rebuilding everything to Toyota specification

and then putting it all back together to just make them more capable for off-road adventure and overlands vehicle use,” Schaefer said. “[We pay attention to] carrying equipment, recovering gear [and] modifying them to suit whatever the user is gonna use it best for. Everybody’s use is different.”

Classic and vintage vehicles are staples of the overlanding culture, but repairing and upgrading them can be an obstacle — between finding the correct part to fit an era-specific build or mixand-matching others to get the most out of a vehicle. Schaefer said his business tries to utilize parts from modern land cruisers that will still work in older vehicles, though they are modified if need be.

“We source a lot of our parts from overseas,” Schaefer said. “A lot of parts from the Middle East and a lot of parts from Europe because you figure, let’s say a transmission was last manufactured in the ’70s. Somebody somewhere [has] one of them in a box. It’s just a matter of finding it and getting it. Now you got a brand new one. It takes a lot of time.”

Not only were automotive companies and builders present, but accessory parts and outfitting companies also attended.

Johnson said his favorite was the Expedition Overland booth, because everyone was welcoming and helpful — in addition to giving out stickers and pamphlets.

When overlanding in unexplored frontiers, communication is key for individual and group expeditions alike, especially in pursuing safety. Midland Radios was present for the first time at the expo, providing information on its top-of-the-line radios.

Nick Bravo, a representative and tour manager of Midland Radios, said the company’s purpose in attending the expo was to educate guests on the importance of their products.

“Obviously safety’s number one — that’s what we do — but people use them for all different things,” Bravo said.

“Snowboarding, hide and seek ... we had a farm show that we went to where someone used our radios for tractor musical chairs.

So just really crazy stuff that you can use our radios for.”

For all the vendors and companies at the expo, the primary purpose of their products is to be self-sufficient in the backcountry, Bravo said. Whether it be different tools, long-range radios or various vehicles for unexpected circumstances, Bravo explained the importance of designing efficient and reliable products.

“We also have [high quality radios] which have five watts of power, and that will get you about a five-mile range,” Bravo said.

“If you’re on open [areas] like saltwater flats, or if you’re around an ocean or open water, or mountain top to mountain top, you can actually get up to 36 or 38 miles — but that’s in perfect conditions. If you’re off-grid and in the middle of nowhere, we can’t really rely on cell phones, so radios are more important to have.”

For a society of adventurers, outdoorists and explorers, there is seemingly no better place to host an event of this nature than the home of the Lumberjacks. With millions of acres of public land begging to be explored all around the world, having a convention for like-minded individuals to convene, collaborate and create friendships can be rewarding to participants. When running low on fuel in a personalized Landcruiser, having the ability to radio a nearby Rambler might just be a saving grace in a time of need. For a fellowship whose goal is the journey and not the destination, many can learn from those who claim the overlanding lifestyle as their own.

Left: Representative of Midland Radios, Nick Bravo, showing off one of the company’s products, Sept. 24. Right: Owner of Overland Cruisers, Johnny Schaefer, standing next to his display vehicle, Sept. 24. Jonah Graham | The Lumberjack

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

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FEATURES

Noble Herb is staying competitive in the green industry William Combs III

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n the booming marijuana industry of Arizona, having a good product line is no longer enough to stay competitive among dispensaries. Noble Herb, formally called Greenhouse of Flagstaff, is rebranding and putting clients at the heart of its business model.

After eight years in the industry, Greenhouse of Flagstaff rebranded into Noble Herb, along with an upcoming location change in 2022, to set itself apart from other dispensaries in the area. With this rebrand, owner and co-founder Ryan Hermansky said Noble Herb is committed to its foundational core values.

“One of the most important things we take into consideration is just people’s time,” Ryan said. “The level of experience of marijuana products is vastly different for every person that walks through the door, especially with the other recent passing of adult use this year. We’re getting a lot of first-time people coming in, and we pride ourselves in making sure we can get their questions answered [and] taking the time with them to make sure they’re comfortable with what products might serve them best or what their goals are.”

Ryan explained these values are a significant part of his relationship with the other cofounders; his brother Brandon Hermansky and their friend of 25 years, Doug Daly. After their school years, the three friends began their professional careers and diverged on varying paths. However, when the medical marijuana ballot initiative was up for vote in 2010, both Ryan and Brandon explained they kept close watch — and doors eventually opened after its approval.

“We looked at that as an exciting, tremendous opportunity to really be on the

forefront of something,” Ryan said. “It was certainly new to us, but we saw it as an exciting venture to participate in and went for it.”

They opened Greenhouse with customers at the forefront of their company, knowing this could set them apart from competition.

Their business venture did not come without its share of obstacles, however. Ryan explained that over the eight years, the founders and their team had a learning curve when it came to growing marijuana plants at a commercial scale in Flagstaff’s climate. He described Arizona’s monsoon season as drastically affecting the quality of the product.

In order to combat this issue, Noble Herb found a balance between indoor and outdoor growth. Most of their products are currently grown indoors, but Ryan noted outdoor plants have a different effect on the flower, so Noble Herb utilizes outside acreage when the weather permits.

Meanwhile, Brandon said he and his partners thought about rebranding their business for quite some time due to the similarities between them and other dispensaries in the area.

With the legalization of recreational marijuana in Arizona this year, he said it was the perfect time for a change.

“No one had any idea of what the different names of dispensaries would be, so we went with the Greenhouse of Flagstaff knowing that growing in greenhouses would be our model,” Brandon said. “It just so happened that a bunch of other people had similar ideas. There are only three dispensaries in Flagstaff, another one of them being Green Farms, so people would easily get us confused.”

With the passage of Prop. 207, Brandon said Noble Herb had to adapt to an influx of customers it had not previously seen. In line with

their core values, the team created an express line, which allowed them to maintain their quality of service while expediting checkout times.

“When recreational marijuana passed, we had about a four-month window to get ready before we switched over,” Brandon said. “In order to prepare, we doubled the amount of cash registers, checkout counters and the number of employees to be ready for it. Our average wait times have either stayed the same or are within 30 seconds of what they were before. The vast majority of people can get in and out in under 5 minutes, which is our goal.”

Brandon also explained Noble Herb serves two types of customers: Those who see the dispensary as another errand — like grocery shopping — and those who like to window shop and talk to the employees about the product.

With the specifics already considered, Brandon said he is confident and optimistic moving into this rebrand. A large part of that original mission is training new budtenders — a play on words for employees who act as marijuana bartenders — to fit the vision moving forward. To match the customer service they put at the center of their business, Ryan explained new employees are trained in-house. The coowners are working on teaching them how to match a client’s interests and needs to the appropriate products, Brandon said.

Sophomore Omar Ramirez has been a regular at Noble Herb for over a year. He cited customer service and short wait times as his reasons for continuously returning.

Ramirez is a medical patient who uses marijuana to combat his sleeping issues. He said cannabis has been instrumental in his dayto-day life since he chose to get a medical card, and Noble Herb has been a place where he feels

comfortable.

“I’ve never been to a bad dispensary,” Ramirez said. “But these people are very educated and know their products based on certain needs. For example, I was shopping with them recently and they had an onsite representative for Select, just talking about new products coming out from that company. I thought that was really cool, and I haven’t seen that at any other dispensary I have been to.”

Ramirez said customer service is a critical part of his experience. Getting the product catered specifically to his needs is just as important as a prescription from the doctor, he added.

“Ever since I started [shopping] they get more variety, and things that are more accustomed to different demographics,” Ramirez said. “Sometimes you need a different product based on certain factors in your life. Sometimes you just want a microdose. Sometimes you are coming home from a long day of work and need a larger portion to relax. The different varieties of product have definitely opened new doors for me.”

The green industry is continuing to boom after the passage of Prop. 207 in Arizona.

Data released by the Department of Revenue shows since January, the state has accumulated over $25 million in tax revenue from adult recreational sales alone, and $115 million in total collections.

In an industry that only seems to continue in growth, competition is rampant, and Noble Herb is attempting to stay ahead of the curve through a heightened customer experience.

Cannabis may still be seen as taboo, in some senses, but is also rapidly expanding — making Flagstaff a little greener than yesterday.

“We looked at that as an exciting, tremendous opportunity to really be on the forefront of something.”

– Ryan Hermansky, Co-founder and co-owner of Noble Herb

Local dispensary Greenhouse of Flagstaff has rebranded to become Noble Herb, Sept. 27. Owen Sexton | The Lumberjack

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Home away from home: A look inside on-campus housing Octavia Freeland

L

ooking for a place to live is an important decision for college students. For many, the place they choose will be home for the next couple of months, or years, while attending school. There are a lot of factors that need to be evaluated when selecting a soon-to-be home. Considerations include how far the commute is from school, whether or not one wants a roommate, as well as affordability.

NAU provides various options for living on campus. Located near du Bois Center is The Suites, a shared community living space. This option is based on dorm-style accommodations and, according to its website, offers a variety of floor plans. Students can select a private room, or share with one or more roommates.

The Suites provides study rooms, lounge areas, shared kitchens, a gym and laundry rooms.

Junior Alexis Reyes Lee, who currently lives at The Suites, explained she chose to live there because of the pricing. Reyes Lee stays in an apartment consisting of one bedroom and one bathroom, which she shares with her roommate. She pays around $680 a month and said it is worth the price, as one of the cheapest living options she could find on campus. Reyes Lee said knowing her budget and being able to sign a lease without a co-signer helped her pick The Suites. In particular, one of the amenities Reyes Lee likes is the weight room — she said there are multiple workout machines available the majority of the time. Another recently added perk Reyes Lee mentioned is complimentary laundry service.

The price of a shared room at the Suites is worth it, Reyes Lee said, but if anyone were to pay more for a room there, it would be best to look at other on-campus living options. For instance, one can pay a little more to get an apartment providing a shared kitchen and living space with a few other roommates, instead of having to live with community amenities.

“I don’t have a car, and being able to walk to my different classes is pretty nice,” Reyes Lee said. “It [also] takes less time to go to classes rather than coming from off campus. I also work on campus as a True Blue Ambassador, so I’m able to go to work as well, right there on campus. It takes me about 20 minutes for a comfortable walk to work rather than being off campus, which might take longer.”

Senior Daniela Millan is in her third year of living at SkyView. According to its website, the complex has two- to four-bedroom apartments, with the lowest price being $834 and the highest as $879. Millan said she lives at Skyview because of the on-campus location, in addition to having her own bedroom and bathroom.

For the three years Millan signed leases, she pointed out the rates increased, leading her to debate whether SkyView is still the right home for her.

When Millan first signed with Skyview, she paid $736 monthly; now, during her third year of living there, she pays $819. Further, Millan explained there have been issues when she uses the roommate app SkyView provides. She did not end up getting the roommate she matched with, because at the last minute, her pairings were switched and she was partnered with people she did not know.

“I just really try to live with people that I know,” Millan said. “I get random roommates every year because they’re either graduating or they just moved somewhere else. I know I don’t like inconsistency, but sometimes they arrange that I live with certain people that we matched with on a certain app — it’s like a roommate app. Then, at the last minute, they switched everybody out this year. What was the point of the roommate app if you’re going to match me with people who I didn’t come up with?”

Millan explained the time she lost her parking spot due to a miscommunication with SkyView, which was stressful because the complex did not contact her regarding the renewal of her parking permit.

Located on South San Francisco Street is Hilltop Townhomes, another on-campus living option for students.

Hilltop Townhomes offers apartments with four bedrooms and three bathrooms, with the lowest pricing marked at $829 and the highest coming in at $849.

Junior Shannen Cueto described her experience living at Hilltop, which began this academic year after staying in Raymond and Reilly Hall. When comparing Raymond to Hilltop

Townhomes, Cueto referenced how small of a living space the former provided. She shared the apartment with two other girls, along with one bathroom and a small kitchen.

Living at Hilltop, Cueto said she likes the spaciousness the apartment provides. She has her own bedroom, bathroom and a bigger kitchen, and concluded that moving into Hilltop was an upgrade.

“I also looked around here in Flagstaff, and there’s several two-bed and two-bath [apartments], but they’re going for $2,000,” Cueto said. “There’s really low-priced apartments nearby, but they’re really old and you still have to furnish it on your own. So I feel like the price that I pay for Hilltop is kind of worth it — or it just makes sense why I’m paying that much money to be right on campus.”

Hilltop provides fully furnished units, which is one less factor to budget for. Cueto pays the lowest rate, $829 monthly, to live at the townhomes. A minor complaint she had is contributing an additional $50 a month toward parking, which she said should be included in the overall payment.

Cueto said one of the main reasons she decided to live at Hilltop was because of the convenience of getting to her classes.

The commute consists of a quick bus ride and short walk, which she described as hassle-free and budget-friendly — especially with saving on gas. Not having a down payment or security deposit, in addition to providing individual leases, also contributed to Cueto’s decision to live at Hilltop.

An amenity Cueto likes is the gym; she said she goes threeto-five times a week. She explained this resource is good to utilize if students want to do cardio or fit in a quick workout. Cueto also said the management at Hilltop has responded quickly to her service requests, which has made her experience with staff good so far.

Affordable housing is a must for college students, and it can be a bigger plus if apartments, townhomes or other living styles are located on campus. For NAU, on-campus housing prices vary, and being aware of which options are worth their price can be beneficial. Knowing what to look for in a living situation, and deciding how much one is willing to pay, helps narrow choices. A student’s soon-to-be home should be one that is easy to love and affordable.

Illustration By Tonesha Yazzie

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

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FEATURES

Admiring Flagstaff’s

Stargazers look up at the sky in Buffalo Park on a cloudy evening, Sept. 28. Megan Ford-Fyffe | The Lumberjack

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Legendary Night Sky

A view of the night sky from Buffalo Park, Oct. 1. Brian Burke | The Lumberjack

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

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CULTURE

Hankerin’ serves up satisfaction on San Francisco Street

I

’ve always found Flagstaff’s food scene to be something to write home about. There are plenty of local favorites to choose from, but I could never help but be bothered by the missing piece to the puzzle. Flagstaff lacked a place that could satisfy those late night cravings, whether it be nachos, tacos or anything else an overtired college student can imagine. However, a new joint on South San EMILY Francisco Street, called Hankerin’, may just be REHLING able to serve up a dish that’ll hit the spot.

The menu at Hankerin’ has a wide variety WRITER of options, from green chile chili cheeseburgers to “chicharachos,” a combination of nachos and chicharrones, which are fried pork rinds. My gut told me to stick with the classics, though, so I opted for two different tacos — carne asada and roasted pork.

The carne asada taco was one of the best I’ve ever had. Not only was it packed with flavor, but the meat was incredibly juicy. Served on a lightly-fried mini corn tortilla, which gave a great crunch, this taco is certainly something I’ll find myself thinking about while I zone out during a study session. As for the roasted pork mini taco, Hankerin’ might have convinced me to order pork every time I grab for tacos now. Until I tried it, I was never a big fan of pork.

For me, what sent these tacos over the edge was the salsa they were topped with. Salsa can make or break my feelings toward a dish, and I’m happy to say Hankerin’ knows how to do it right. I chose the house hot salsa out of multiple options, but be warned: They’re not kidding when they say “hot.” This spicy salsa fresca lived up to its name and I enjoyed every bite.

I also ordered a bowl of chili to go with my tacos. As a selfproclaimed chili connoisseur, how could I not? While it was definitely one of the better bowls I’ve had in Flagstaff — actually homemade, and not the canned stuff typically served in your average diner — I felt this one in particular lacked something. I prefer a little more heat, and the chili at Hankerin’ was definitely more on the mild side. Regardless, I’d probably go back for more; I still can’t resist the hankering for a bowl of chili.

Whether you find yourself wandering down San Francisco Street in the evening or are four hours deep into an essay that you just can’t seem to finish, Hankerin’ is here to handle the cravings that are bound to hit. Open until midnight, it just might be the cherry on top when it comes to Flagstaff’s exciting food scene. This spot lives up to its name — at Hankerin’ there’s something to satisfy any craving.

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Sept. 27 to Oct. 2: Super Bowl performers and rock retirements Katelyn Rodriguez Top five stories of the week: 1. Blink-182 bassist and singer Mark Hoppus announced on Twitter Sept. 29 that he is cancer-free.

Hoppus shared his cancer diagnosis in June.

2. The headliners for the Super Bowl LVI halftime show have been announced. The 2022 performers will include Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Mary J. Blige, Kendrick Lamar and Eminem.

3. According to Variety, actor Scarlett Johansson and Disney have settled the Black Widow lawsuit Johansson filed against the corporation two months ago.

4. The nominees for the Latin Grammys were announced Oct. 1. A full list can be found on the Latin Recording Academy’s website.

5. Rock icon David Lee Roth announced his retirement, Oct. 1. According to an interview with the Las Vegas Review-Journal, his final performances will take place at Mandalay Bay’s House of Blues on New Year’s Eve,

Recent releases: “Love for Sale” by Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga (album) “In These Silent Days” by Brandi Carlile (album) “Outsider” by Roger Taylor (album) “Venom: Let There Be Carnage” (in theaters) “The Addams Family 2” (in theaters) “Grey’s Anatomy” season 18 (ABC) “Love” by Grimes (single) “Diana: The Musical” (Netflix) “A House on the Bayou” (trailer)

Top 15 charting songs: 1. “STAY” by the Kid LAROI featuring Justin Bieber 2. “Industry Baby” by Lil Nas X featuring Jack Harlow 3. “Way 2 Sexy” by Drake featuring Future and

Young Thug 4. “Bad Habits” by Ed Sheeran 5. “Fancy Like” by Walker Hayes 6. “good 4 u” by Olivia Rodrigo 7. “Kiss Me More” by Doja Cat featuring SZA 8. “Knife Talk” by Drake featuring 21 Savage and

Project Pat 9. “MONTERO (Call Me by Your Name)” by Lil

Nas X 10. “That’s What I Want” by Lil Nas X 11. “Levitating” by Dua Lipa 12. “Save Your Tears” by The Weeknd featuring

Ariana Grande 13. “Girls Want Girls” by Drake featuring Lil Baby 14. “Essence” by Wizkid featuring Justin Bieber and Tems 15. “Fair Trade” by Drake featuring Travis Scott Song data from Billboard’s The Hot 100 Chart

CULTURE

Lumberjacks show their green thumb at the planting party Aidan Schonbrun

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n a cloudy September afternoon, plants of different colors and shapes were brought to pop-up tables around campus. As temperatures begin to change into the cooler weather of autumn, students were ready to engage with one another, shop around and add some greenery to their lives.

NAU’s Lumberjack Activities Board (LAB) organized the plants for students around the central quad and Starbucks pedway on Sept. 29. LAB’s website stated it orchestrates a variety of activities, including concerts, speakers, comedians, movie nights and special events. For students, these events are usually free to attend — and the planting party was no exception.

The planting party was scheduled to take place from 3-to-5 p.m., with houseplants and succulents up for grabs. LAB brought 400 plants and pots, and came with bags of soil ready for all interested students.

Within 30 minutes, all available plants were gone.

As soon as the event started, students arrived and formed long lines. The attendees grabbed a plant of their choosing and moved on to other tables, where soil and small pots were ready for use. LAB members were nearby, prepared to assist those who needed help with the planting.

Junior and LAB Event Coordinator, Joy Johnson, explained that when it was initially hosted a semester ago, the idea was to distribute plants on Earth Day so people could spend time learning and planting. Johnson said the event was so popular the first time LAB decided to do it again for both semesters this school year.

Additionally, Johnson said LAB is here to design and coordinate events for students to enjoy, while getting their minds off the stress of school.

“We want to make events for the people, and we want them to be fun,” Johnson said.

Sophomore LAB member Brandon Knutson explained that the planting party creates a better sense of community on campus because of the shared experience it provides.

“People can get some living things on campus and in their social lives,” Knutson said.

Knutson also said because fewer students lived on campus last semester, a lot more are currently attending the events. He explained that activities

like the planting party are a good way for people to get to know one another.

Meanwhile, freshman Ty Holiday echoed the idea that these gatherings bring the community together and facilitate good experiences on campus.

“I saw my friends with a couple of plants and wanted to get some myself for my room,” Holiday said.

Many attendees described a passion for having plants in their own spaces and around campus. Further, others referenced good scheduling with the weather changing and the green beginning to fade in Flagstaff.

Junior Alexandra Pioro decided to attend the event because of her love for plants. She described the planting party as a fun setting — even people unfamiliar with potting were able to learn. Pioro explained that activities like this are good for people who love plants and want more of them.

“I have two plants at home, and one of them is dying,” Pioro said. “This came at a good time for me.”

Pioro also described the event as friendly, especially because experienced plant owners and LAB members assisted those who needed it.

As the day went on, LAB’s Instagram page continued to post pictures of people and their plants, encouraging student interaction with the page and creating more excitement about the activity. Many of the highlighted stories included students who named their plants, along with those who attended with friends.

While the event finished quickly, it showed that students across campus are always ready to show their green thumbs.

Taylor Rice, coordinator for campus activities and programs, labeled it as a success and showed her happiness with the results.

“I wish we had more plants, but I’m glad people learned and had fun,” Rice said.

Johnson said she hopes LAB will be able to continue hosting enjoyable activities for students.

The board plans to provide entertainment for the remainder of the academic year, including a Nov. 5 concert at Prochnow Auditorium featuring indie rock band Japanese Breakfast.

“We want to make events for the people, and we want them to be fun.”

– Joy Johnson, LAB Event coordinator Illustration By Diana Ortega

OCT. 7 – OCT. 13, 2021 | THE LUMBERJACK

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Students and families gambled the night Taylor Schwartz-Olson

“The whole event is pretty much student-run. Yes, there is an occasional staff member from NAU, but everyone is doing prizes, all the dealers are NAU volunteers, and all that kind of stuff. So, it’s like 90% student-run.”

T

he School of Hotel and Restaurant Management (HRM) hosted its 28th annual Casino Night in the du Bois Center on Oct. 1. It was one of Family Weekend’s first events. The ’80s-themed occasion began just before 7 p.m. and ended at 10 p.m. after the raffle prizes were handed out.

HRM professor Gary Vallen organized the event with the help of his gaming and casino management class. Vallen’s executive senior assistant, Mikayla Harang, said Vallen has organized NAU’s Casino Night since the 1980s. The 2021-22 academic year is his last before retirement.

“Casino Night has been [recurring for] 28 years, so now we’ve raised over $900,000 — all for scholarships,” Vallen said.

According to a letter sent by HRM, proceeds from ticket sales, table sponsorships and the silent auction support the HRM Casino Night Endowed Scholarship. These scholarships are given to HRM students, especially those who volunteered at the

A family attending Casino Night waits for the dice to be passed to them in a game of craps in the du Bois ballroom, Oct. 1.

Megan Ford-Fyffe | The Lumberjack

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– Senior Assistant Mikayla Harang event, like those in Vallen’s gaming and casino management class.

Everybody in the class is on a team, and each team plays a pivotal role in organizing and executing the night. Participants served as auctioneers, cashiers, decorators, marketers, raffle workers, logistics coordinators, prize trackers, food and beverage servers or human resource employees.

“I think this event is a really good opportunity to showcase that we’re the school of Hotel and Restaurant Management,” Harang said. “The whole event is pretty much student-run. Yes, there is an occasional staff member from NAU, but everyone is doing prizes, all the dealers are NAU volunteers, and all that kind of stuff. So, it’s like 90% student-run.”

The evening included several games, such as poker, blackjack, craps and bingo. For $2, attendees could receive $100 funny dollars to use on games. Senior Brooklyn Merrill said many of the volunteers were taught how to play blackjack and poker, and some even learned that day.

In addition to the games, HRM hosted a silent auction.

Beforehand, the auction team collected all of the big prizes, organized them and figured out the starting bid. Then, at the event, guests registered their names and phone numbers to receive a bidder number before surveying the auction table set up in the center of the room. The first silent auction ended at 7:30 p.m., and the awards were handed out and replaced by a new round of items. At the front of the room, a projector advertised the major prizes, such as a two-night hotel and a golf package for four.

Gaming and casino management students sold raffle tickets before the event, and they were available for purchase until the drawing. Avree Little, a senior and member of the raffle team, explained the pricing and said they tried to sell at least 1,000 tickets before Casino Night even started. At the event, volunteers continued sales at a booth outside the Düb dining hall.

Families entered the south entrance of du Bois Center and had their tickets scanned before walking under an arch of neon balloons and ascending the stairs to the top floor. Colorful streamers and decorations covered the stairwell, and NAU

HRM volunteer Hailey Bogar deals cards and chips at a blackjack table at Family Weekend Casino Night, Oct. 1.

Megan Ford-Fyffe | The Lumberjack

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CULTURE

t away at HRM’s 28th annual casino night cheerleaders hugged the entrance to the big hall, waving their pom-poms and greeting guests.

In the front right corner of the room, a DJ was hard at work. ’80s music spilled into the hallway and could be heard throughout the building. Guests purchased their poker chips at a big booth near the entrance. Sophomore Hailey Bogar, a blackjack dealer for the evening, said chips could be traded for raffle tickets before the drawing.

As the night progressed, the event grew crowded, and the loud hum of voices swelled in the air. Every once in a while, cheers of excitement or yells of anticipation would cut through the noise. Groups of people crowded around tables, waiting for their turn to play.

At 9:30 p.m., a long line formed as attendees waited to redeem their chips for raffle tickets.

Then, they headed downstairs to the bingo room to place their tickets in the box.

Not long after 10 p.m., everyone gathered in the big room and hallway downstairs, waiting for the raffle. The split-the-pot raffle was first up, and three winners were selected. However, at the time of the drawing, the money had yet to be counted.

Next, the tedious process of picking over 70 raffle winners began. The prizes included

NAU shirts, hats, mugs, books and other items.

Because many of the guests had already left, there were several unclaimed prizes. However, when the first winner was called, those who remained exploded with applause and laughter.

While the drawing continued, the students and volunteers began to pack up and move everything out. With Casino Night officially over, HRM students are looking forward to their premier event of the year, which is scheduled for Nov. 2-3. Roy Schott, a TA for Vallen’s class, was eager to talk about what comes next.

“In a month, we’re taking the class to Las Vegas for a behind the scenes tour of a casino,” Schott said. “Students will see things they are never going to see otherwise.”

Overall, Vallen’s final casino night was a huge success. Many volunteers and guests commented they were not expecting such a turnout. Vallen, like his students, is excited for one of his last big events as an HRM professor.

The question now remains: Who will organize next year’s Casino Night?

A raffle participant places his tickets in the tumbler at Casino Night, Oct. 1.

Megan Ford-Fyffe | The Lumberjack

Families play blackjack at tables around the du Bois Center, Oct. 1.

Megan Ford-Fyffe | The Lumberjack

Attendees place their chips on the roulette board, Oct. 1. Megan Ford-Fyffe | The Lumberjack

OCT. 7 – OCT. 13, 2021 | THE LUMBERJACK

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Family Weekend Tailgate

Family Weekend festivities continued on last weekend at the tailgate before the football game against Idaho State. Isabella Couture | The Lumberjack

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CULTURE

God Loves You Tour

Top: The Newsboys perform gospel songs at Fort Tuthill on Sept. 30, for the God Loves You Tour.

Bottom: Christian music singer Marcos Witt is playing the keyboard for the God Loves You Tour at Fort Tuthill, Sept. 30. Richard Espinoza | The Lumberjack

OCT. 7 – OCT. 13, 2021 | THE LUMBERJACK

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SPORTS

BLUE AND GOLD IN ACTION Can the Golden State dynasty return?

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fter their downfall in the 2019 NBA Finals, the Golden State Warriors took a massive tumble, losing guard Klay Thompson to a torn ACL for the next two seasons and playing without guard Stephen Curry for most of the following year. These injuries set up a mini-rebuild, masterminded by general manager Bob Myers and head coach Steve Kerr.

NOAH This retooling began during the BUTLER 2019-20 season, shortly after Curry broke WRITER his hand four games in. Without their superstar, the Warriors fell to a NBAworst 15-50 during the pandemic-shortened season, which was quite the transition after their 57-25 record in 2018-19.

That season did have highlights, however, as it allowed forward Eric Paschall and other players to shine in a heightened role for a team without its Splash Brothers: Curry and Thompson. It also led to trading guard D’Angelo Russell to Minnesota for draft picks. The situation got even better after the season’s end — Golden State was able to get the No. 2 pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, when they drafted center James Wiseman out of Memphis.

The trade that sent Russell to Minnesota was the largest factor in the Warriors’ rebuild, as it allowed the team to acquire forward Andrew Wiggins, a 2021 top-three protected pick and a second-round selection. Wiggins proved to be a decent starter and solid contributor to the team.

The other half of this trade was good for Golden State. If Minnesota was able to receive a top-three pick, it would have kept the selection, but if the Timberwolves fell out of that range, the Warriors got it. Minnesota ended with the seventh pick and thus, Golden State grabbed it.

This gave the Warriors two lottery picks and they were able to do a lot with them. They drafted forward foward Jonathan Kuminga with Minnesota’s No. 7 and, with the 14th pick, they picked Arkansas’ Moses Moody.

Going into the 2021 season, these Warriors look reloaded with the additions of forward Otto Porter Jr, forward Nemanja Bjelica, guard Avery Bradley and forward Andre Iguodala. All four are good veterans who will aid the young players this season.

With all of these moves, this team can make the playoffs.

However, the road to being a dynasty again is long — especially in the Western Conference, with the powerhouse Los Angeles Lakers on top. If the Warriors can make the playoffs, the Splash Brothers may be enough to squeak by the first round, but it will take the whole team to reach the peak of the NBA once again.

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Recent Game Scores

UPcoming Games

Volleyball

Volleyball

NAU @ Northern Colorado Saturday, Oct 2, 5 p.m.

Final: (L) NAU 0 - UNC 3

Soccer NAU @ Idaho Friday, Oct 1, 6 p.m.

Final: (L) NAU 1 - Idaho 3 NAU @ Eastern Washington Sunday, Oct 3, 1 p.m.

Final: (W) NAU 1 - EWU 0

Football NAU vs Idaho State Saturday, Oct 2, 1 p.m.

Final: (W) NAU 48 - ISU 17

NAU @ Sacramento State Thursday, Oct 7, 7 p.m.

(Sacramento, California) NAU @ Portland State Saturday, Oct 9, 7 p.m.

(Portland, Oregon) (Viking Pavillion)

Soccer NAU Soccer VS Weber State Friday, Oct 8, 7 p.m.

(Flagstaff, Arizona) (Lumberjack Stadium) NAU Soccer VS Idaho State Sunday, Oct 10, 1 p.m.

(Flagstaff, Arizona) (Lumberjack Stadium)

Senior forward Madison Montgomery dribbles the ball to advance the attack for the Lumberjacks against Northern Colorado at Max Spilsbury Field at Lumberjack Stadium, Sept. 26. Northern Colorado defeated NAU 2-0.

Megan Ford-Fyffe | The Lumberjack

SPORTS

IceJacks enjoy a passion for the puck Kristen Chancellor

T

he NAU IceJacks Division III team is ready to hit the ice full of passion and power after spending a year away due to COVID-19 cancellations. Despite the time off, the team is focusing more on the present compared to the past as it gears up with an almost brand new roster — on the playing and coaching sides. Head coach Jake Smets discussed how different the roster has been.

“Last year we had an entirely different coaching staff for D-III save for assistant coach Benjamin (also a former alumnus now assistant coaching D-II) and myself,” Smets said. “The same has been true with our roster, we have minimal returners.”

Out of 28 players on the roster, only eight are returning.

The IceJacks are full of new faces and playing styles. Hockey is a sport full of speed and strength, which this team has faith in possessing. The 2019-20 season saw the D-III team struggle to win games and put up goals against opponents. With an entirely new team, the dynamic has strengthened, and the IceJacks are looking toward success as the season gets underway.

Developing a close team can be difficult, especially with such few returners. The focus of the team has been on the present rather than the future. However, senior captain Daniel Lozon said the team is tight-knit and easier to train with fresh faces.

“We are the closest that we have ever been … It’s a lot easier setting the tone and creating a positive environment and dynamic when there’s new blood,” Lozon said. “There is definitely a family aspect to the team.”

With these changes, the IceJacks are shooting for success.

The team was separated for a year, but furthermore, players were away from the ice and the sport they love. COVID-19 protocols were highly enforced for club sports on campus, which resulted in no team practices, no games and a lost season. Jay Lively Ice Arena, the home of the IceJacks, sat empty for a year with no screaming fans and no bodies hitting the boards. However, the IceJacks are slipping their skates on to compete against opponents this season.

Freshman Kaleb Choury said the IceJacks are preparing to have a rink filled with energetic fans and passionate players.

“Coming into a new season here at NAU, the team hopes to see Jay Lively Arena buzzing with our fellow Lumberjacks,” Choury said. “Especially after last season being canceled, the team plans on bringing our best to every game [and] delivering a great experience to the fans.”

Looking toward the season, the IceJacks started away for their first two games against Division II GCU, which sits a division higher than them. Before the game, people thought this would create problems for the IceJacks and make them underdogs.

Opening on the road is never ideal, but this team is full of competitive energy that could easily translate into an advantage.

“I think we have more creativity in offense and more responsibility on defense, which should create an overall team cohesion and will make our IceJacks trouble for any team, let alone playing a team up a division,” Smets said.

The IceJacks have a strong offensive core, but in order to

NAU IceJacks practicing, leading up to the start of the hockey season. Owen Sexton| The Lumberjack

have good hockey games, both defense and offense must outshine opponents. Bringing a strong dynamic to the ice, this team has the potential to put up a good fight.

Although the IceJacks are a club sports team, this does not mean they are not a top contender within the sport itself. One struggle for this team is the lack of recognition they receive. From 1979-1985, the IceJacks were an official team at NAU, but the club title has held them back from gaining attention.

“Although we are not an NCAA sport, we deliver an electric game atmosphere on par with, or better than, some of our NCAA sports on campus,” Choury said.

However, the team has struggled with on-campus recognition.

The IceJacks petitioned to bring a rink back to campus — making attendance more accessible — but construction plans at University Union Fieldhouse stalled due to COVID-19 testing and vaccinations.

Without an on-campus rink, the team has still connected with the community. Partnering with youth leagues and giving back to the town is one goal Smets expects and encourages of players.

“Traditionally, NAU hockey has been involved with youth

hockey at Jay Lively, often donating time or even coaching younger groups,” Smets said. “I have high expectations that our group will be contributing to such programs and other off-ice outreach in the community.”

The IceJacks will have to prove themselves this season and are ready to fight for the regional spot. Smets, Lozon and Choury were all confident in the charisma and strength of this young and upcoming team.

Throughout the time off, passion for the puck grew even stronger for these players. As they start the season and get used to their skates again, they will look for support from fellow teammates, coaches and fans.

“For anyone considering coming out to watch us this season, just know that we will play our hearts out to win and give the fans good entertainment,” Lozon said. “We are always grateful for those who are willing to take the time to cheer us on.”

The IceJacks were geared up and ready to start their season, but lost both matches against GCU’s D-II and D-III teams last week. NAU will look to overcome the hardships of the missing season and prove itself to the community once again.

OCT. 7 - OCT. 13, 2020 | THE LUMBERJACK

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SPORTS

NAU destroys Idaho State in be Brenden Martin

N

AU returned home to the Walkup Skydome after three games and a month away to give the Family Weekend crowd a show. The Lumberjacks played their most complete game in what seems like years with a 48-17 rout of the still winless Idaho State Bengals.

After a quick start put the Bengals on the board early, the Lumberjacks regrouped and found their rhythm in the first half.

On the very first play after kickoff, senior Oshea Trujillo broke away with a 21-yard run to give the Bengals good starting energy. Trujillo, listed as a linebacker, made the start in the backfield for Idaho State without its top two rushers: freshman Raiden Hunter and sophomore Malakai Rango. Trujillo ended up playing both sides of the ball, as he led the Bengals with 44 rushing yards and contributed four tackles, along with a broken up pass.

After the opening run from Trujillo, freshman quarterback Hunter Hayes carved up the NAU defense in the air before he found freshman wide receiver Benjamin Omayebu for a 17-yard touchdown just over two minutes into the game.

The Lumberjack offense started the game slowly, despite multiple third-down conversions. NAU’s only points in the first quarter came with 2:49 left on a 35-yard field goal from graduate kicker Luis Aguilar.

Much like last week’s loss to Northern Colorado, the defense was stout as Idaho State’s opening touchdown accounted for its only points in the first half. NAU held the Bengals’ depleted backfield to just 79 rushing yards in the half, as well.

In addition to their issues running the ball, passing also proved to be an issue for the Bengals with their regular starting quarterback, junior Tyler Vander Waal, unavailable. Idaho State turned to Hayes to lead the offense. With limited time under center this season, Hayes struggled to keep momentum after the initial touchdown. He completed 19-of-39 passes for 218 yards, and also threw three interceptions.

“We worry about ourselves,” NAU head coach Chris Ball said about the absence of Idaho State’s offensive leaders. “That’s just the way the game is. We had an idea, but we really didn’t worry about that. … Whoever they put out there is whoever we’re gonna go against.”

Freshman quarterback RJ Martinez started again behind center for NAU. In his first start in the Walkup Skydome, Martinez showed composure and confidence in leading his team to victory — as he did against UArizona two weeks ago. Martinez surpassed his career high of 208 passing yards, which he achieved last week, with 246 passing yards in the first half alone. By the end of the game, he completed 26-of-45 passes with three touchdowns and no interceptions.

His performance did not seem to be affected at all by the absence of graduate wide receiver Stacy Chukwumezie, who was out with a knee injury. With him gone, the question was posed of who would step up. That concern was quickly answered by a pair of wide receivers: Redshirt freshman Coleman Owen and redshirt

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Freshman quarterback RJ Martinez breaks a tackle while he rushes for a touchdown against Idaho State at the NAU Walkup Skydome, Oct. 2. Brian Burke | The Lumberjack

sophomore Jamal Glaspie. Owens had over 100 receiving yards by halftime, and Glaspie also joined him in the triple digits.

“It was a big role to fill,” Glaspie said. “You never know when your time comes, but when it [does] come you have to be ready.”

Glaspie had only played in two of NAU’s games this season, and he caught six passes for 43 yards in those games. Against Idaho State, he had 11 receptions for 167 yards and two touchdowns.

The transfer from Inglewood, California joined the team this year after a season at Fresno State.

The second quarter began with Martinez finding Owen for a 20-yard touchdown on a play that had the quarterback rolling to his right. After the throw, Martinez was hit hard by freshman linebacker Nick Larriva, who was ejected for targeting after further review of the hit.

From there on, the wheels completely fell off for the Bengals.

Hayes committed his first turnover of the game on a pass that

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was intercepted by graduate defensive back Brenndan Johnson in the NAU’s red zone. Then, the Lumberjacks churned up the field in six plays and scored again, thanks to a familiar face. Redshirt freshman quarterback Jeff Widener, who had not seen any action since the start of the UArizona game, was brought on for a single play. With 9:28 left in the second quarter, he found Glaspie for a 25-yard touchdown to give NAU a 16-7 lead. “[Martinez] cut his arm, he was bleeding,” Ball said about why Widener came into the game for a single play. “Great job by Jeff [Widener] being ready to go.”

Idaho State once again found itself just outside the red zone and looking to make something happen before NAU received the ball to start the second half. The Bengals tried a reverse play that failed to fool the Lumberjacks as redshirt junior Morgan Vest jumped in front of the pass for his first of two interceptions.

With the ball and lead, NAU was essentially able to put the

SPORTS

est outing of the season, 48-17 game away before the teams went to the locker rooms. On the first play after the interception, Martinez and Owen connected on the biggest play of the game: An 80-yard touchdown that lit up the Family Weekend crowd.

NAU got another chance to score before the end of the half.

A 32-yard run from freshman running back Kevin Daniels set up Aguilar for a long 51-yard field goal attempt that would have been his longest of the season by far. The kick was no good, however, and NAU went into the break with a 23-7 lead.

The firepower the Lumberjacks had in the first half did not simmer down going into the third quarter. NAU found itself at fourth-and-2 near midfield, a perfect place to go for the final attempt. Martinez hauled the ball on a designed quarterback draw to get the 2 yards needed, and he found much more than that, breaking away for a 41-yard touchdown run that opened the game even more.

NAU converted on both its fourth-down attempts, and Idaho State also completed its only fourth down on the next drive, which ended in a 37-yard field goal by senior kicker David Allish.

The Bengals defense continued to struggle against a Lumberjack offense that scored its most points since a 53-point

overtime loss to Idaho on Senior Day in 2019.

The Martinez-Glaspie connection continued with 6:06 left in the third quarter, when Martinez found his new favorite for a 34-yard touchdown. On the play, a roughing the passer call gave NAU better position on a two-point conversion that made up for an Aguilar missed extra point from earlier on. Martinez, on the run again, found Daniels for the two points.

Daniels, who missed last week’s game against Northern Colorado, put up a performance just as big as his previous outing against UArizona. He rushed for a game high 118 yards and had a 7-yard reception as icing on the cake.

By the time the fourth quarter rolled around, the game had already been decided long before. After a 41-yard field goal from Aguilar made it 41-10, each team subbed in some backups to get reps in the game’s final times. NAU sophomore running back George Robinson made his first appearance in the final quarter — and he made it count. He rushed for 60 yards on 10 attempts during a drive that culminated with him taking an 11-yard run to the house, adding to the lopsided score, 48-10.

As the game wound down, the Bengals only found the end zone on their first and last drives. The final drive was led by

freshman quarterback Sagan Gronauer and freshman linebacker Tyevin Ford, who also converted to running back for this game.

The pair ran through NAU’s backup defenders and scored on a 1-yard run by Gronauer to cement the final score: 48-17.

The Lumberjacks had 649 total yards, while the Bengals only had 363. NAU (2-3, 1-1 Big Sky) takes this win into its bye week and will be back in the Skydome on Oct. 16 at 1 p.m. to take on the Southern Utah Thunderbirds.

“We’re gonna take some time to get healthy, but we still gotta work,” Ball said. “Some of the coaches will leave Wednesday after practice to go recruiting. We need to get caught up on recruiting.”

Two weeks from now, the game will be the last matchup between these two schools before Southern Utah leaves the Big Sky and joins the Western Athletic Conference next year. It will also be NAU’s Homecoming matchup, as well as Hispanic Heritage game.

The Lumberjacks sing the NAU Fight Song after winning 48-17 against Idaho State at the NAU Walkup Skydome, Oct. 2. Brian Burke | The Lumberjack

OCT. 7 - OCT. 13, 2020 | THE LUMBERJACK

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