Vol. 34, Issue 1
August 19, 2021
I N D E P E N D E N T
S T U D E N T V O I C E
O F
B O I S E
S TAT E
S I N C E
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RECONNECTING OUR CAMPUS RETURNS TO LIFE FACING CHALLENGES OLD AND NEW NEWS
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Guru Donuts and two other local coffee and cafe vendors are opening on campus this semester.
VISIT US ONLINE:
OPINION
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Working on campus helps students grow their resume, and establish professional connections. arbiteronline.com
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CULTURE Treefort Music Fest returns this Sept. with an updated lineup, as well as health requirements. @arbiteronline
SPORTS & REC
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Hank Bachmeier and Jack Sears are working together despite rivalry for starting quarterback position.
@arbiteronline
@boisestatearbiter
PHOTO OF THE WEEK
Editor-In-Chief Blake Hunter editor@stumedia.boisestate.edu Online Editor Ashley L. Clark onlineeditor@stumedia.boisestate.edu News Editor Andi Teres - Martinez news@stumedia.boisestate.edu News Reporter Fenix Dietz news@stumedia.boisestate.edu Culture Editor Amanda Niess culture@stumedia.boisestate.edu Culture Reporter Julianne Gee culture@stumedia.boisestate.edu Sports & Rec Editor Lexi Almeido sports@stumedia.boisestate.edu Sports & Rec Reporter Adam Bridges sports@stumedia.boisestate.edu Opinion Editor Paige Wirta opinion@stumedia.boisestate.edu Copy Editor Kelby Andrew copy@stumedia.boisestate.edu Social Media Coordinator Becky Wilson Digital Content Manager Claire Keener digitalcontent@stumedia.boisestate.edu Digital Content Producer Corissa Campbell Graphic Design Manager Sasha White design@stumedia.boisestate.edu Graphic Designer Cassie Mcgarty Illustrator Alieha Dryden Distributed every few weeks during the academic school year and online daily, The Arbiter is the official independent student newspaper of Boise State University, where student editors make all content decisions and bear responsibility for those decisions. The Arbiter’s budget consists of fees paid by the student body and advertising sales. The first copy is free. Additional copies can be purchased for $1 a piece at The Arbiter offices.
Bordering campus, the Boise River draws thousands of recreators each summer.
ON THE COVER:
As we reengage with the campus community, new and old challenges arise for students. The ongoing surge of COVID -19 jeapordizes gains made by vaccinations, and material difficulties and mental health issues have been exacerbated. In reconnecting safely, we have a chance to uplift one another.
HOW TO REACH US: CONTACT US: editor@stumedia.boisestate.edu 208.426.6302 PHYSICAL LOCATION: Located on first floor of Lincoln Avenue Garage Suites
MISSION:
As a student-run organization, we produce accurate and hyper-local information through non-par tisan and socially responsible media.
MAILING ADDRESS: Student Media MS 1340 1910 W Universit y Dr. Boise, ID 83725 -1340
Claire Keener | The Arbiter
Work that fits with your class schedule Introducing Flex Positions at The Grove Hotel
Flexible Schedule
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Free Shift Meal
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Starting $14/hour
NEWS
August 19, 2021 | ARBITERONLINE.COM
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT MOVE-IN PROTOCOLS
Housing and Residence Life continues to update safety measures for move-in day, as delta infections spike in Ada County
Andi Teres-Martinez | News Editor | news@stumedia.boisestate.edu
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ith the start of the fall semester just around the corner, many students are preparing for the move to on-campus housing. This year, that means new procedures. While many hope that campus life this year will more closely resemble pre-pandemic times, risks posed by the increase in delta variant infections has led the university to revise move-in protocols for the safety of students. “As was the case in 2020, our movein process has been decentralized and intentionally slowed down to ensure that students can maintain physical distance to the fullest extent possible while the campus welcomes all of its incoming residents,” said Adam Apperson, associate director of housing operations for Housing and Residence Life. Move-in, which has been divided into two days to allow for social distancing, will kick off on Aug. 18 and go through Aug. 19. At the beginning of August, students were emailed a specific time at which to arrive at their designated room assignment, along with other important reminders. Unvaccinated students are required to be tested for COVID-19 within three to five days of being on campus. Vaccinated students and those who have tested positive for COVID within the last 90 days are exempt from testing. “As things slowly return to ‘pre-pandemic’ times, I’m hopeful that the campus as a whole will do just fine, but the potential consequence of us not being allowed visitors again or going back to mostly online classes is a slightly nerve wracking thought that I hope won’t become our reality again,” said Hailey
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Updated protocols include COVID testing within three to five days of moving to campus for unvaccinated individuals. Mackenzie Hudson | The Arbiter Clemens, a junior dual early childhood special education major. Housing and Residence Life is currently reviewing regulations around residence hall visitors, and will release updated information soon. As part of the university’s efforts to encourage social distancing, department leaders have also asked that students bring no more than two helpers and wear face coverings while moving in. In terms of help available to students, the university has continuously updated their website information surrounding procedures for move-in day, requirements for on-campus housing and general FAQs. Staff and volunteers will also be present during move-in to answer ques-
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tions and provide directions. “Our Public Health Office is maintaining its own FAQ to share out information about COVID testing, vaccinations and isolation protocols,” Apperson said. “Students should read the aforementioned FAQ to understand if and when they’ll be required to test for COVID, how exemptions work and where testing is facilitated.” Beyond COVID protocols, students have also been made aware of the Bronco Welcome program, along with other opportunities to familiarize themselves with the campus community. With so many preparations in place for new residents to begin their campus experience, students are encouraged to
utilize all campus resources available to them as needed, and not be afraid to ask questions. “Campus offices will be open in full force throughout move-in,” Apperson said. “Tons of great events and programming [are happening] both in and outof-hall to help students meet people and get comfortable with the campus.” For any questions about housing, contact Housing and Residence Life at housing@boisestate.edu or visit their online Help Center.
NEWS
THREE LOCAL COFFEE AND CAFE SHOPS TO OPEN LOCATIONS ON CAMPUS Boise State welcomes Guru Donuts, Poppyseed Cafe and Urban Fox Coffee & Boba
Ashley L. Clark | Online Editor | news@stumedia.boisestate.edu
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hree new cafe-style vendors will be opening on Boise State’s campus this semester: Guru Donuts, Poppyseed Cafe and Urban Fox. Following the closure of the Big City Coffee & Cafe campus location last fall, the university began the process of finding another vendor for the cafe space in Albertsons Library. According to Nicole Nimmons, associate vice president of Campus Services, Boise State requested that Aramark, the university’s food and beverage partner, find a local, non-franchise “coffee and food” business to fill the spot. After receiving about ten letters of interest from local restaurants, the university narrowed its selection to the top four applicants. The applicants were then asked to create a short video presentation explaining why they wanted to be a part of the Boise State campus community. Students and other members of the campus community reviewed these presentations in a Zoom webinar. The university then issued a survey and collected around 400 responses to determine which businesses the community was most interested in, according to Nimmons. Administrators took those responses and worked with Aramark to evaluate which businesses would work best for the location. Urban Fox ranked number one with the most positive feedback. However, Aramark determined that the Albertsons Library vendor space had previously seen a high rate of food sales. “... A large amount of food is purchased there [in Albertsons Library],” Nimmons said. “And so, one of our top retailers [Urban Fox] that the students really wanted in that location, just due to the fact that they don’t have a food line, we knew probably wasn’t going to be the best fit for that location.” Because Urban Fox only offers mostly coffee and tea products, the university
decided that the second-place ranked cafe, Guru Donuts, would be a better fit for Albertsons Library. However, Boise State was able to offer Urban Fox a vendor space in the Multipurpose Classroom Building, replacing Moxie Java. Poppyseed Cafe was also offered a spot on campus, going into the Micron Business and Economics Building, replacing the JR Simplot Cafe. Guru Donuts - Albertsons Library Established in 2012, Guru Donuts’ main location is located in the Idanha Building in downtown Boise. Guru Donuts offers handcrafted doughnuts made with locally sourced ingredients. The shop’s menu features a variety of vegan and gluten-free doughnuts, as well as some specialty and seasonal options. Guru also serves sandwiches, avocado toasts and a variety of coffee and beverages. Additionally, Sabre Rodriguez, regional manager of Guru Donuts, said the Boise State location will offer new menu items like breakfast burritos and bowls. Guru Donuts will also be partnering with The STIL Ice Cream Company to offer pre-packaged artisanal ice cream in the Albertsons Library location. “We’re really looking forward to having a lot of repeat customers and getting to build more relationships,” Rodriguez said. Guru Donuts’ location on Boise State campus will be officially open as of Aug. 20, just in time for the start of fall semester classes. Urban Fox - Multipurpose Classroom Building Established in 2017, Urban Fox is a coffee and boba tea bar currently located near The Village shopping center in Meridian. Haena Cho, owner of Urban Fox, had a difficult time finding a boba tea shop that she liked when she first moved to Idaho. So when the business opportu-
Guru Donuts will fill the vendor space in Albertsons Library, selling donuts, sandwiches, beverages and more. Claire Keener | The Arbiter nity came about in 2017, Cho decided to open up her own shop in The Village shopping center in Meridian. “I actually have a manager that has about ten years of experience in coffee shops,” Cho said. “So we decided that coffee and boba tea would be the ultimate stop for everyone that’s here in the Treasure Valley.” Urban Fox offers milk teas and clear teas with additional add-ins like boba, jellies and flavorings. The cafe also has a full coffee and espresso menu which features the customer favorite “Short and Sweet” latte, which is the shop’s take on Vietnamese coffee. Urban Fox will also sell baked goods, pastries, snacks and “grab and go” pre-packaged food items available at the Boise State campus location. The vendor space in the Multipurpose Classroom Building is still under renovations for Urban Fox, but Cho believes they should be finished sometime in early September and hopes to open shortly after.
Poppyseed Cafe - Micron Business and Economics Building Poppyseed Cafe’s main location is a quaint space on Hill Road tucked into the foothills of northern Boise. The restaurant’s Boise State location will have a full breakfast and lunch menu, including breakfast bowls, breakfast burritos, sandwiches, salads, baked goods and more. Poppyseed Cafe also offers a variety of coffee and tea beverages. “We try to accommodate all kinds of food allergies or diets, so we have keto options, gluten-free, vegan, that kind of thing,” said Kimberly Castor, who coowns Poppyseed Cafe with her husband Jeremy Franklin. Poppyseed Cafe will be located on the first floor of the Micron Business and Economics Building on the west side of campus and is anticipating opening on the same day that classes start, Aug. 23. “The atmosphere or the aesthetic that we’ve kind of tried to promote is [that] we like to try to keep things as local as possible, using local ingredients or local vendors,” Castor said.
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NEWS
PSA ON “THE RED ZONE” AND SEXUAL ASSAULT ON CAMPUS
Education, information and resources that can help prevent and respond to sexual assault Ashley L. Clark | Online Editor | news@stumedia.boisestate.edu
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hat is “The Red Zone?” “The Red Zone” refers to the increased amount of sexual assault and violence that occurs during the first six-toten week period of school during the fall semester on college campuses. According to Inside Higher Ed, 50% of all college sexual assaults occur during this timeframe. Researchers report that this can often be credited to the higher number of parties and events that occur before midterms, and a generally higher rate of alcohol and substance use. Who does “The Red Zone” affect? Research shows that freshman students are particularly vulnerable because they are often unfamiliar with their new surroundings on campus, including safety resources. A study by the Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network (RAINN) states that, “Students are at an increased risk during the first few months of their first and second semesters in college.” According to RAINN, 23.1% of female undergrads, 21% of TGQN (transgender, genderqueer and nonconforming) students and 5.4% of male students experience sexual assault. Why is this year different? This fall will be the first semester that most universities are “back to normal” and conducting fully in-person classes with fewer health and safety restrictions on campus since the start of the pandemic in March 2020. This means that not only is Boise State inducting a new class of freshman students, but is also welcoming an entire class of sophomore students who have not yet had the full “college experience” in terms of class offerings, university events and general campus operations. “Colleges and universities will also be grappling with the return of older stu-
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dents, who, understandably, feel like they missed out on a year of a traditional college experience. There will be a desire to make up for lost time, which may result in increased partying, heavier drinking, and more casual sexual activity,” said Tracey Vitchers, the executive director of It’s On Us, an advocacy program started to combat campus sexual assault, in an article for Forbes. During the It’s On Us National Student Leadership Summit on July 29, even President Biden called on college students to help prevent sexual assault, specifying increased concerns during a time of increased vulnerability due to COVID-19 and related pandemic situations. “I knew then, and we know now, that we needed to change, change the culture, when it comes to sexual assault. And changing the culture requires all of us, all of us, to get engaged — especially young men, who too often stand on the sidelines. To step in, speak out, make sure everybody knows your campus does not tolerate sexual abuse,” Biden said at the summit, as reported by CNN.
sense any hesitation from your partner, stop and ask how they are feeling. • Sober - If your partner is intoxicated by drugs or alcohol, you can never be sure if you are respecting their wishing. Consent cannot be given by someone who is under the influence. Silence or unclear expressions like “umm” or “maybe later” are NOT consent. Learn more about Rape Culture and stand up against it. Familiarize yourself with campus resources.”
What can you do? Educate and advocate for active consent. According to Promoting Awareness | Victim Empowerment (PAVE), active consent can be described with the following terms:
Safety and Prevention Resources Download the Rave Guardian Safety App - This app allows you to submit reports and contact Public Safety directly. Utilize Security Escorts - Public Safety provides a 24/7 security escort program for students and staff. Just call (208) 426-6911. Familiarize yourself with the Emergency Blue Light Phones - Blue light phone stands can be found throughout campus and can be used to contact campus security dispatch. Sign up for BroncoAlerts - BroncoAlert is a text-based notification system that Boise State uses to inform students of public safety concerns and announcements.
“Consent M.O.V.E.S.! • Mutual - consent needs to be mutual without coercion. • Ongoing - anyone can change their mind at any time. • Verbal - while body language can give you a clue as to whether your partner is interested, verbal consent is necessary to be respectfully intimate. • Enthusiastic - consent is much more than a ‘yes’ or ‘no.’ If you
Support & Reporting Resources The Boise State Office of Institutional Compliance and Ethics handles all Title IX-related issues. Call 9-1-1 or contact Public Safety at (208) 426-6911 for any immediate or ongoing threat. File a formal complaint with the Title IX office. Visit or contact the Gender Equity Center for confidential support and advocacy. Located on the second floor of
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the Student Union Building (SUB). Call (208) 426-4259 or visit their website for more information and resources. University Health Services provides a full range of primary care and educational services. Located in the Norco Building. Call (208) 426-1459 or visit their website for more information and resources. University Counseling Services provides counseling and mental health services. Located in the Norco Building. Visit their website for more information.
The Blue Light phones can be used to contact security on campus. Claire Keener | The Arbiter
NEWS
ATHLETIC DEPT. PREPARES FOR ALCOHOL SALES IN ALBERTSONS STADIUM
A “Drink Responsibly” campaign will launch ahead of the new sales for the 2021 football season Lexi Almeido | Sports & Rec Editor | news@stumedia.boisestate.edu
Alcohol will be sold in kiosks around the stadium and in the “Fan Zone” during football games.
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oughly 50 days before kickoff, Boise State Athletic Director Jeramiah Dickey announced that alcohol will now be sold inside Albertsons Stadium during the 2021 football season. Alcohol will be available for purchase at kiosks around the stadium and in the Fan Zone located in the northeast corner of the stadium. A portion of the Ford Tailgate Zone, located on DeChevrieux Field, will be reserved for pregame alcohol sales as a part of the Broncos’ Gameday Fan Fest. A “Drink Responsibly” campaign will also launch in and around the stadium on game day. “Our goal is to provide an elite fan experience on game day,” Dickey said. “Bronco Nation directly impacts our student-athletes and, ultimately, the outcome of games. My hope is that today’s announcement continues to generate
excitement and helps us fill the stadium.” As word spread, Boise State fans began to express their opinions towards the alcohol sales within the stadium. Some included concerns about a potential increase in rowdiness and fights due to alcohol consumption. Eagle, Idaho, resident Melissa Bradley and her husband Rod Bradley have been Boise State football season ticket holders for 25 years. “[I am] a little bit surprised because it is a college campus, but not surprised in the sense that it will greatly increase [Boise State’s] revenues that are probably much needed after the pandemic,” Melissa Bradley said. In 2020, Boise State Athletics implemented furloughs and compensation reductions for all staff. The measures were predicted to result in a savings of $1.8 million for the department. In October 2020, former Athletic
Bailey Nellesen | The Arbiter
Director Curt Apsey stepped down from his role to move into a university-level fundraising position. “I will be stepping away from the duties of athletic director and focusing the energy on the financial challenges we currently face by continuing to advance our fundraising efforts at Boise State,” Apsey said in a press release from Oct. 21, 2020. Another announcement included that re-entry will no longer be permitted within the stadium, as is the case at other top venues throughout the country. With alcohol sales and the no re-entry rule, Melissa Bradley believes a greater number of people will be present for halftime and the second half of the game. Rod Bradley also expressed concern that the increase in alcohol sales might increase the foot-traffic throughout the stadium. He said the stands are not built for people to move easily to and from August 19, 2021
their seats. On the other hand, senior media broadcasting major Ryan Sieckert is nothing short of excited about the announcement. As an Idaho resident and student at Boise State, Sieckert said he believed this announcement had been a long time coming. “One problem the stadium has had is that a lot of people leave during the third or fourth quarter and that’s when the Broncos need everyone in their seats,” Sieckert said. “I think having the ability to serve alcohol during the second half will give the fans a reason to stay in the stadium.” Sieckert also believes this move will benefit athletics because it will potentially bring Boise State more revenue from future game days. He also suggested a way to eliminate problems within the stadium could be to limit the consumption of alcohol per fan.
“Bronco Nation directly impacts our student-athletes and, ultimately, the outcome of games. My hope is that today’s announcement continues to generate excitement and helps us fill the stadium.”
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Jeramiah Dickey, Athletic Director Season tickets, mini-plans, the Blue Collar Pass and single-game tickets are on sale now. Suite and lounge seating options are currently sold out. The Broncos will kick off against The University of Texas at El Paso on Sept. 10 in Albertsons Stadium for the first home game of the 2021 football season.
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OPINION August 19, 2021 | ARBITERONLINE.COM
WORKING ON CAMPUS: THE BENEFITS OF BEING A STUDENT EMPLOYEE
Flexibility and a supporting workplace are just some of the reasons you should consider seeking campus employment
Taylor Rico-Pekerol | Guest Writer | opinion@stumedia.boisestate.edu
Working where you go to school is not only convenient, but allows for deeper connections to the campus community. Paige Wirta | The Arbiter
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nderstandable and flexible employers can be few and far between, but at most Boise State departments, that is all
you’ll find. Walking onto Boise State’s lush and captivating campus, I was blown away by a lot of its amenities. However, nothing caught my journalism-loving heart quite as much as Boise State Student Media did. (Yes, this is also about Event Services. I’ll get there.) Student Media encompassed everything I
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wanted to be and do — writing, reporting, interviews, photography, on-camera experience and an educational environment to progress my skill set. My second semester of my first year at Boise State, I was hired as the news reporter for The Arbiter, the student-run newspaper. In my job interview, I had asked my student interviewers if they thought it was a reasonable workload to handle as a student. They told me there would be times where it was busy and difficult, but everyone understood
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that we were all students first. I worked for The Arbiter for three years. In that time, I developed meaningful connections on campus, grew my understanding of my degree through hands-on work and was able to do all of this in an environment that understands student work, school and life balance. From flexible schedules, interactive learning environments to a good resume builder, the benefits of working on campus are endless. I now work at Boise State Event Services as the event scheduling specialist for my last semester of my undergraduate career. (See, I told you I’d get there.) Although I’ve handled working 20+ hours and school at the same time for the past few years, my last semester is a full 16-credit, six class schedule. During my interview process for Event Services, I laid out my schedule for them. Between the six classes, being the Inclusion Chairman for my sorority Zeta Tau Alpha, an internship with the Idaho Business Review and still pursuing my passion for writing — my schedule is tight. Even with all of the availability barriers, my employers at Event Services understood that, and hired me anyway because they believed I could handle it. We’ve worked out a schedule that is mutually beneficial. Along with being understanding and flexible with my schedule, they have also given me an opportunity to explore another possible career path I might want to pursue in the future. They have given me more responsibility and supported me along the way in a fun and thriving work environment that fosters learning and growth in their student employees. If you are at all intrigued by the notion of working on campus — do it!
If you do not want to take my word for it, my roommate also has an on campus job at the Educational Access Center (EAC). She applied through Boise State Handshake, interviewed with them soon after and was hired a few days later. “I really enjoy having an on-campus job. It allows me to feel more connected to the university and gives me an opportunity to be on campus more often and know what’s going on! Without it, I don’t think I would feel like I belonged at BSU. I like feeling connected to the school, especially this last year when it was so hard to feel connected to anything at all,” said Delaney Beale, junior history major. On-campus jobs provide a way to meet new people and feel connected in an environment you will not get anywhere else; it is an opportunity to make meaningful and lasting connections. “I think a benefit is that your boss or supervisor knows that you’re a student and cares about you as a person and your needs. They’re just more understanding of student’s schedules and lives, whereas other jobs don’t care as much,” Beale said. “I think another benefit is that my job lets me connect with students outside of class and meet people I never would have had the opportunity to meet otherwise.” Whether you are working in Albertsons Library, the Bronco Shop, Educational Access Center, Student Media or the amazing Event Services Department, working on campus will provide a fun, fulfilling and flexible work environment. If you’re interested in working for Event Services reach out to us at eventservices@ boisestate.edu or give us a call (208) 4261677. Follow us on Instagram @boisestateeventservices!
OPINION
OUR BEST BET FOR A SAFE AND FUN YEAR IS GETTING VACCINATED
Wearing masks, even if you are vaccinated, also helps reduce the spread of the delta variant Paige Wirta | Opinion Editor | opinion@stumedia.boisestate.edu
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ith Boise State reinstating certain pre-pandemic conditions, such as returning to in-person classes without a focus on social distancing, I was debating how many of these in-person classes I was willing to take.While state and local governments opened up, I found myself growing increasingly anxious, certain that the COVID-19 pandemic was far from over. Despite the looming threat of the delta variant, I registered to take all in-person classes this fall. Some of my anxieties were eased when Boise State sent out an email announcing that facial coverings would be required on campus once again. Though I had already decided to continue wearing my own mask, knowing that other students would be as well lifted a weight from my shoulders. That being said, mask requirements most likely will not last forever, nor are they the best way to keep us protected alone. Because of this, it is imperative to the health and well-being of the Boise State community that everyone who is eligible gets vaccinated. Getting vaccinated is the best way for the students, faculty and staff at Boise State to stay healthy throughout the next semester. Wearing masks in public indoor spaces, even after being fully vaccinated, is also strongly recommended by the CDC. The more people that get vaccinated, the quicker we can hopefully get back to a new normal. Of course, this is a personal choice for everyone. There are many reasons people choose not to get vaccinated. Many people are concerned about how quickly the vaccines were developed. However, according to the CDC, the vaccines have and will continue to go through “the most intensive safety monitoring in U.S. history.” The vaccines have gone through a
Vaccines are available on campus at the Campus School Building five days a week. multitude of clinical trials, tests and studies in order to ensure their safety and make them available to anyone 12 years and older. Because of this, people can be reassured that the vaccines are safe. The vaccines have also proven to be efficient in reducing the risk of catching and spreading the virus. While it is possible to contract COVID-19 after being fully vaccinated, the chances of severe illness, symptoms and death are greatly reduced, though you can be infectious. It is also important to recognize that any side effects of the COVID-19 vacci-
nation dramatically pale in comparison to the symptoms of contracting the actual virus while unvaccinated. Symptoms of the COVID-19 virus include fever, cough, trouble breathing and chest pain. Some symptoms can last weeks after contracting the virus. In comparison, some side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine include tiredness, muscle ache and injection site soreness. According to the CDC, “COVID-19 is still a threat to people who are unvaccinated. Some people who get COVID-19 can become severely ill, which could result
Claire Keener | The Arbiter in hospitalization, and some people have ongoing health problems several weeks or even longer after getting infected.” All of the Boise State community should strongly consider getting the vaccine. It’s pertinent to not only your own safety, but the safety of your loved ones and everyone around you.
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MOVING FORWARD, LOOKING BACK
Blake Hunter | Editor-in-Chief | editor@stumedia.boisestate.edu
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ere we are, in the third academic year affected by the coronavirus pandemic. After a brilliantly (and perhaps naively) hopeful summer, surges of the highly infectious delta variant have pumped the brakes on what might have looked like a semester approaching our elusive idea of normalcy. But despite the masks, the massive misinformation campaign about COVID-19 vaccines and the ever-looming upward trend of infections, Boise State is about to see more face-to-face interaction than there has been for the last 17 months. First-year students are moving onto or near campus, relocating from across the country and globe. The class of 2024 is about to start a semester essentially robbed from them a year ago. There is anxiety and distrust. And there is also relief and harmony. But mostly there is abundant energy, converting from potential to kinetic. In her State of the University Address at the Boise Metro Chamber in May, Boise State University President Dr. Marlene Tromp said that the transformation wrought by the pandemic will continue into the future. “I charged our community to think
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about how [the pandemic] was going to change the way that they understood how the university should function and operate — how it would make us a better university on the other side of the pandemic than we were when we went into it,” Tromp said. As Broncos reconnect, the year ahead will still be shaped by COVID-19. Luckily, public health officials know more than ever about the virus and its variants, and what choices the university administration and students can make about how to move forward. The pandemic has also exacerbated many of the issues students face, including getting connected on campus and basic needs insecurities. COVID Updates and a Fourth Surge The return to school for fall semester corresponds with an alarming fourth surge of COVID cases, this time predominantly with the more infectious delta variant. If Idaho’s COVID infections continue to climb at their current rate, there will be a record number of cases and hospitalizations in the state within weeks. The Idaho Capital Sun reported on Aug. 16 that the number of COVID patients in Idaho Intensive Care Units (ICUs)
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was at 108 on Aug. 11, nearing the 122 patient peak from December 2020. And this surge came fast, too: at the beginning of July, just 6% of all ICU beds were filled by COVID patients. In just over a month, that percentage rose to 36%. Almost all of these patients are unvaccinated Idahoans. Because of this spike, many hospitals across the state are pausing non-emergency procedures again, and public schools are scrambling to decide whether to require masks or even vaccinations. Boise State administrators have so far decided against a vaccine requirement, but are requiring masks on campus and testing for unvaccinated individuals moving into on-campus housing. Jason Carter, a staff member of the university’s Public Health Office, has managed the vaccination clinic in the Campus School Building and isolation spaces on campus throughout the pandemic. The clinic is still administering vaccines daily to the public, and Carter hopes that the accessibility will encourage doubtful or hesitant students to get vaccinated. “The fastest way out of this pandemic with the fewest number of lives lost is to get vaccinated, wear a mask, wash your hands and practice social distancing,” Carter said.
The Public Health Office is encouraging students to receive the vaccine by increasing both accessibility and incentive. A vaccine clinic will be held on Saturday, Aug. 21 from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Campus School Building, with free parking on site and on the first floor of the Brady Garage. Throughout this semester, incentives will include give-aways for two $2,500 vouchers for housing, tickets to football and basketball games, tickets to the Morrison Center’s Broadway production of “Hamilton” and more. Carter said that the Public Health Office is preparing for the thousands of students moving into campus housing this week. All unvaccinated students are required
“I charged our community to think about how [the pandemic] was going to change the way that they understood how the university should function and operate.” Dr. Marlene Tromp, university president
F E AT U R E
to test for COVID within three to five days of moving onto campus. According to Carter, the university is anticipating the need to use some of the isolation spaces on campus for students who test positive. Isolation spaces on campus are now exclusively in Jade Hall near University Square. Over the past year, the number of isolation beds has been around 150, but have recently been cut to 66 after the peak number of isolation rooms filled last year was only 45. “We’re prepped and ready to handle them,” Carter said of incoming students. Mental Health and Material Challenges Prior to the pandemic, students in higher education institutions were experiencing significant increases in mental health issues and struggling with basic needs. In the past year and a half, many of those problems have been exacerbated. The Hope Center for College, Community and Justice recently completed its sixth annual #RealCollege Survey, which assesses student well-being based on financial, housing and food insecurities, among other areas. Students from over 200 institutions
excitement for the new school year comes with apprehension for safety and well-being
completed the survey, including Boise State, which was the only institution surveyed in Idaho. The survey results indicate that rates of basic needs insecurity (food insecurity, housing insecurity and homelessness) stayed around the same during 2020 as results from previous years. But that brings little comfort: a staggering 53% of respondents attending 4-year schools reported some basic needs insecurity within the previous year. Almost half of students said they experienced housing insecurity, 29% reported food insecurity and 14% experienced homelessness at some point. However, in other areas, 2020 did increase burdens on students. Depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation and other mental health problems related to the stressors of school, the pandemic and material difficulties increased substantially through 2020. Similarly, about 1 in 3 college students reported a job loss because of the pandemic. In almost every category, people of color from all backgrounds experienced harsher setbacks than white respondents, and were less likely to re-enroll in classes. To address these challenges, the Student
Basic Needs Collaborative (SBNC) in the Dean of Students office facilitates research and consultation for the university’s efforts to mitigate basic needs insecurity. “The collaborative identifies potential gaps, as well as streamlines and regularly communicates to the Boise State community the resources and services available to them to aid in basic needs security,” Jackie Dierdorff, student basic needs coordinator, wrote in an email. Dierdorff reported from Boise State’s results in the #RealCollege survey that 28% of respondents experienced food insecurity in the previous 30 days, and 43% experienced housing insecurity in the previous year. Even more alarming, 16% reported that they had experienced homelessness in the previous year. “Basic need insecurities among college students are much more common and pervasive than one may think,” Dierdorff wrote. “It is important to normalize and remove the stigma of accessing support resources as well. Students should not feel ashamed for asking for help as their experiences are more common than they may realize.” For students currently struggling with basic needs insecurities, Dierdorff sug-
gested utilizing the Campus Food Pantry, the Meal Assistance Program, Student Emergency Fund and the Steven Nelson Memorial Fun, all of which can be found on the Dean of Students website. Getting Connected
Whether you’re a graduate student or brand new to campus, getting connected with groups, organizations and resources is critical for creating a life here. Throughout these pages and elsewhere are ways to connect with fellow Broncos. With an uncertain fall semester ahead of us, our responsibilities to one another are what will keep us moving forward, not what will keep us back.
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TREEFORT MUSIC FEST PREPARES TO MAKE UP FOR LOST TIME
The popular local festival has announced the new lineup and ticket information of its previously postponed Treefort 9 Amanda Niess | Culture Editor | culture@stumedia.boisestate.edu
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ometown favorite Treefort Music Fest was postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic in March 2020. However, Treefort organizers are working to bounce back and prepare for the festival’s return in September 2021. Treefort 9 had originally been planned to happen in a pre-pandemic world last March, but the dates have since moved to Sept. 2226, 2021. With the recent spike in the delta variant, the Treefort team has updated and improved their health and safety guidelines for both attendees and performers who are planning on participating in Treefort 9. On Aug. 11, 2021, Treefort published a press release containing the new guidelines for vaccination requirements. “Anyone attending Treefort Music Fest will be required to show proof of negative COVID-19 test result or vaccination prior to entry to all official Treefort venues and programming tracks,”the press release stated. “In addition, Treefort asks that all attendees have a mask handy at all times, as some Treefort events or areas may be mask-only at certain times.” This new requirement is encouraged for all artists, staff, vendors, volunteers and attendees who are aged 12 and older. Before collecting concert passes, attendees must check into the TMF Pre-Check Party Zone for security screening, where they will receive an entry wristband for the performance venues. “Free vaccines are available now and during the festival at The Egyptian Theatre 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. MT, Monday through Friday,” the email read. “Vaccines may also be available on site at the festival.” Treefort intends to resume its normal schedule immediately, with Treefort 10 taking
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place in the spring of 2022 — which means two festivals in just about six months. The new addition of sanitization schedules and vaccination record requirements will help ensure performers, volunteers and attendees remain safe and healthy throughout the return of Treefort 9. As of June 17, Treefort has announced that 50 more artists will be joining this year’s festival. Fan favorites such as Japanese Breakfast, Goth Babe, Tennis and The Marías are among the 417 artists performing. “This unique September version of Treefort is shaping up to be one of our best yet and we are looking forward to bringing the Treefort family back together to share and discover great music,” Treefort Festival Director Eric Gilbert said. Many artists from the original March 2020 lineup will be carried over into September 2021 for the festival’s return. The event schedule has also been updated for attendees who are looking to organize their Treefort 9 experience. “The enthusiasm from our community about a September edition of Treefort has been reassuring and the excitement from artists has been really motivating,” Gilbert said. “We’re looking forward to gathering again safely and celebrating live music, art and community after a long, quiet year.” “Community Owner” tickets, previously known as “Early Bird” tickets, went on sale on April 8, 2021. All other Treefort tickets — though limited — are now available, including the $250 “Discovery,” the $420 fast pass “Zipline” and the $150 “U21” for audience members below the age of 21. Single-day passes are available for purchase as of July 30.
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Treefort, located in and around downtown Boise, will take place Sept. 22-26. Claire Keener | The Arbiter
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A COLLEGE STUDENT’S GUIDE TO NAVIGATING BOISE STATE Here are some of the services that new and returning students should know about Kelby Andrew | Copy Editor | culture@stumedia.boisestate.edu
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ith fast-changing pandemic conditions afoot, our newest Broncos may be feeling uncertain about their entrance into campus life. Whether you need help with assignments, career planning or creative projects, Boise State provides students with a selection of facilities and programs to suit their needs. The Boise State Writing Center is a great free resource for students who want help with their academic, professional and personal writing projects. Whether you’re working on a podcast script, lab report or resume, there are knowledgeable consultants ready to help every Boise State student regardless of major and enrollment status. In-person services are suspended indefinitely for the Fall 2021 semester, but remote consultations will remain available. Albertsons Library may be a hub of aca-
demic activity on campus, but this building offers more than just book rentals and private study rooms. In addition to the selection of microphone kits and cameras available for rental, students can reserve the library’s audiovisual room and video production suite at no cost. If you’re interested in hands-on projects, the Albertsons Library Maker Lab hosts 3D printers, engraving and cutting tools, sewing machines, soldering irons and a range of other equipment. If you’re looking for a head start on gaining professional experience, Career Services will provide you with all the resources you need — crafting the perfect cover letter and resume, scheduling practice interviews and discovering local jobs and internships. Need a break from the school environment? Campus Recreation’s Outdoor Program hosts a series of trips and events for Boise State students at a low cost including
At the Cycle Learning Center in Lincoln Garage, students can rent or buy bikes and use self-service maintenance stations. Claire Keener | The Arbiter mountain biking, hiking, whitewater rafting, rock climbing and paddle boarding. If you prefer a self-guided adventure, the Outdoor Rental Center has equipment for almost every outdoor activity. Rental costs vary. If you’re facing food insecurity, as many students do, you can find the Campus Food Pantry in the Campus School Building, Room 103. By presenting a student ID, students can gain access to any meals, snacks and personal hygiene products they might need. Looking to explore Boise? Although downtown Boise and the Boise State campus can be traversed on foot, there are alternative transportation options. The Bronco Shuttle is a free and accessible mode of transportation for Boise State students. Currently, there are two available route options: the Blue route, which circles
campus, and the Orange route, which stops downtown. The Blue and Orange routes operate Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. during the school year. Our campus also has a variety of bike-friendly features including the Cycle Learning Center, where students can rent and buy bikes and other accessories. Whether you need a bike for an entire academic year or a single day, there are a selection of rental periods to select from that can accomodate your transportation needs. The Cycle Learning Center also gives students access to self-service stations and bike barns across campus to ensure your equipment stays safe and in good condition. More information about bike routes and parking is available on the Boise State Transportation and Parking website.
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BOISE PRIDE IS COMING TO TOWN THIS SEPTEMBER
Local and international talent will perform on Pride weekend to celebrate queer and trans communities Amanda Niess | Culture Editor | culture@stumedia.boisestate.edu
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oise Pride Festival is making its return to Cecil D. Andrus Park and will take place from Sept. 10 to Sept. 12 of this year. Boise Pride aims “to promote unity and celebrate the diversity of sexual orientations and identities in Boise year-round.” Boise State graduate Coco Freeo received her Master of Education in May 2021. Freeo will be one of the many talents performing at Boise PrideFest this year. In 2018, Coco Freeo attended her first Pride event in Boise where she was introduced to a new community of spirit and culture: the queer community. “Pride is celebrating who we are, what
we do and what we love most,” said Freeo. “It is an opportunity to put aside prejudice, discrimination and just celebrate.” Freeo has been performing in Boise since April 2021 at The Balcony Club downtown, but she is optimistic about this year’s celebration in September. “I am excited to be in person, participating in these big events that I never thought that I was going to be part of and sharing their talent with their community and just having fun,” Freeo said. “That’s what we need right now after last year, [especially] after what we’ve been dealing with lately.” Dugan Jackman works closely with the Boise Pride Festival as the local talent manag-
Drag artist Coco Freeo is one of many local talents set to perform this Pride. Photo courtesy of Josh Johnson
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er and event director for The Balcony Club downtown. He books local talent for the Pride Mainstage and also plans events for The Balcony Club. “People are just happy to see each other, happy to be with so many others celebrating who they are and happy to not worry about the outside world for a few days and just celebrate being queer,” Jackman said. Aside from celebration, other factors come into play when planning the festival’s events, such as entertainment. Both local and visiting talent groups will be coming together during this three-day festival. “You will see everything from belly dancing, circus acts, singers, bands, drag queens and kings and even family interactive entertainment with Drag Storytime, [dance classes], jump roping and more,” Jackman said. The diversity in entertainment is what makes this year’s event so special. However, keeping COVID-19 in mind, Jackman stressed the importance of getting vaccinated and continuing the wearing of masks throughout the festival in order to protect everyone’s health and safety. Both Freeo and Jackman expressed that they celebrated virtually last year but they hope to celebrate in person, trusting attendees to maintain a safe social distance. “Having a digital Pride was fun last year, but to be able to celebrate and party with so many like-minded people is what this community needs,” Jackman said. “Be respectful of businesses and organizations as they try to do their part so we can safely have these celebrations.” There’s a lot more that goes into putting the Boise Pride Festival together. Behind the scenes, Michael Dale, president of Boise Pride’s board of directors, works with performers and local business owners like Freeo and Jackman in order to execute a successful Pride every year. “For the last 31 years, Boise Pride has grown from an event with two dozen people to now expecting 70,000 people in our 32nd
year,” Dale said. “The growth and support we have seen has been incredible.” Dale and his team held various meetings since March of this year to keep up with CDC guidelines and the health and safety regulations that other Pride events are following nationwide. “Every meeting starts a discussion about COVID-19 [where] we research and discuss what other Pride events across the country are doing, track positivity rates in our community and develop plans on how we will potentially track vaccination or testing status,” Dale said. “In addition, we work with the Central District Health Department, City of Boise, vendors and sponsors to understand their concerns and needs.” The return of festivals, such as Pride and even Boise’s Treefort Music Fest in September, brings a surge of encouragement for attendees, staff, volunteers, etc. to get vaccinated before attending. Many festivals across the country, including Stagecoach and Coachella, are requiring attendees to show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result. Dale expects to follow suit in requiring a vaccination status or a negative COVID-19 test prior to participating. “In the coming days, we are likely to issue a vaccine requirement or negative COVID-19 test for entry to the festival,” Dale said. “Several of our sponsors will also be hosting vaccination clinics.” No formal announcement has been made regarding the requirements of vaccination or test results, but Dale still stated that he strongly encourages everyone who plans to attend to get vaccinated in order to ensure a safe and fun environment for this year’s Boise Pride Festival. More to come on Boise Pride Festival’s announcement regarding plans and possible COVID-19 adjustments.
BAM THROWS 67TH ART IN THE PARK
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FIRST TWO WEEKS OF EVENTS
The fundraiser is held in Julia Davis Park, near campus
Several events are happening on and off campus!
Julianne Gee | Culture Reporter | culture@stumedia.boisestate.edu
Arbiter Staff | culture@stumedia.boisestate.edu
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Art in the Park will include live music performances in the Bandshell and vendors around Julia Davis park. Julianne Gee | The Arbiter
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he Boise Art Museum (BAM) will be holding its 67th Art in the Park fundraiser from Sept. 11-14 at Julia Davis Park, across the river from campus. Art in the Park has been a staple among Boise’s community events for over 50 years. The event will include exhibitions from over 250 artists with 104 of those artists being from Idaho, according to a press release. Attendees will be able to purchase artwork from the artists. The event will also feature live music and various food vendors. There will even be a children’s art tent to get kids’ creative juices flowing! “Because Art in the Park is an outside event, masks and vaccinations will not be required for attendance,” said Boise Art Museum’s executive director Melanie Fales. However, masks will be provided for attendees who want one. This year, Art in the Park will occur on the same weekend as the Boise Pride Festival. Fales expects that this should be mutually
beneficial, as people will be able to attend both events. The art museum is also currently looking for volunteers to help with the children’s art tent, booth sitting, recycling and event set-up and take-down. These volunteer opportunities will extend to the days before and after the fundraiser. For more information regarding the event and volunteering, please visit the Boise Art Museum’s Art in the Park webpage.
Ice Cream Social Aug. 23 @ 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Boise State Quad Student Involvement is hosting an ice cream social to celebrate the first day of the fall semester. Transfer Students & Friends BBQ Aug. 24 @ 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. Lincoln Townhomes Patio Transfer students can enjoy free BBQ, make new friends and play games. Fraternity & Sorority Fair Aug. 25 @ 5 p.m. - 7 p.m. Student Union Patio Stop by for food and games to learn more about Greek Life organizations. Welcome Week Job Fair Aug. 26 @ 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Student Union Intramural Field Learn more about local and on-campus job opportunities! Service Saturday River Clean Up Aug. 28 @ 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Student Union Dining Area To kick off the the first Service Saturday, spend some time cleaning up the river. Movie on The Blue Sept. 1 @ 9 p.m. - 11 p.m. Albertsons Stadium Bring a blanket and a friend to enjoy a showing of “F9: The Fast Saga.” Free for students w/ BSU ID, and $10 admission for non-students. Broncos of Color Mix & Mingle Sept. 2 @ 5:30 p.m. Student Equity Center Students of Color can enjoy a fun night with music, food and coffee.
Morrison Center Neighborhood Concert Series Aug. 25 @ 6:00 p.m. Veterans Memorial Park This concert will feature Boise-native Hillfolk Noir and Mckenna Esteb. Food, beer and wine will be sold for a “dinnerand-a-show” type event. Music on the Mountain Sept. 4 @ 2 p.m. - 6p.m. Bogus Basin Free concert by the Boise Rock School, Voice of Reason and the Afrosonics will be playing on September 4th. Goathead Festival Aug. 28 Cecil D. Andrus Park Bring your bikes and roller skates to help the Boise Bicycle Project get rid of invasive Goatheads.
- OFF CAMPUS Western Idaho Fair Aug. 20-24 Garden City Fairgrounds Local vendors, fair food, animal pens, carnival rides and games for all ages. August 19, 2021
Bronco Welcome events and others are scheduled early in the semester to encourage student involvement. Mackenzie Hudson | The Arbiter
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SPORTS & REC AUGUST 19, 2021 | ARBITERONLINE.COM
TRANSITIONING TO A NEW COUNTRY AS BOISE STATE STUDENT-ATHLETES Athletes come from around the world to compete as Broncos Lexi Almeido | Sports & Rec Editor | sports@stumedia.boisestate.edu
Graphic by Jordan Barno | The Arbiter
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oving to a different city or town can be a drastic change, let alone moving to an entirely different country. For some Boise State student-athletes, competing in the United States is a unique transition. Ranging from basketball to tennis, student-athletes around the world travel to Boise State to compete as Broncos. However, during their move to Boise, lifestyle changes, language barriers and coaching styles are some differences these student-athletes have to adapt to. Originally from San Pedro de Alcantara in southern Spain, women’s golf junior Elena Pany found people very welcoming and outgoing when she moved to Boise three years ago. She said the athletic department staff is extremely supportive and helpful as well. “I have always known that I wanted to go to the U.S. for my studies and for golf,” Pany said. “However, what made me decide to come play for Boise State was the great program, amazing facili-
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ties, instant and good connection with my [former] coach Nicole Bird and a beautiful campus.” As an international business major, Pany hopes to open her own business. Whether she remains in the U.S. or travels back to Europe after graduation is something she will have to decide, but Pany hopes to continue playing golf in tournaments around the world. The Boise State Athletic Department gave international athletes the option to remain home instead of traveling back to Boise State due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Pany is currently living in Spain until further notice. Along with being a cross country runner, junior Hannah O’Connor also competes in track and field. She is living at home in New Plymouth, New Zealand until she can begin running again in Boise. O’Connor said she enjoys Boise because the foothills offer great running trails. Of the colleges she considered attending, Boise’s environment was closest to that of New Zealand’s, which she said was a significant factor in her decision to compete for Boise State. Being from a small city in New Zealand, O’Connor didn’t want to move to an overwhelming place. Boise was a smaller city where she felt connected to the people, coaches and teammates. “My coaches where I’m from in New Zealand, they coach a lot of athletes, but it’s not really like a team atmosphere, so it’s very individual,” O’Connor said. “I’ve never really experienced the team side of that, so coming to Boise and being a part of a team — the coaches are really focused on the team outcome. I like it a lot more, being a part of a
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team is amazing and you produce better performances.” Whether a sport is more individualized or team effort focused, every Bronco is competing for the same university. After coming to the United States in 2018 and playing at Midland Community College, men’s golf senior and business major Max Charles came to play as a Bronco in January 2021. During the 2021 season, Charles competed in six events, averaged 73.00 strokes per course and finished in the top 25 twice. At the University of California, Santa Barbara Collegiate, he fired a 5-under 67 to lead his team to victory as well as the first team title of the season. When it comes to coaching and the game of golf, Charles said the game itself is more emphasized in the United
States, rather than the swing. “Back in Australia, the coaches are very mechanical,” Charles said. “Once I got to America my game improved drastically. The biggest change for me was definitely just getting out on the course more, not worrying about positionings on the putting range.” After graduating from college, Charles plans to stay in the U.S. and try to go professional, depending on how golf goes. Otherwise, he will plan to move home and get into his dad’s family company. According to these student-athletes, choosing to stay in Boise after graduation, to return home or to settle somewhere new will be a decision for later, but their time competing as a Bronco will be something they always remember.
Max Charles moved from Australia to golf collegiately in America. Photo courtesy of Craig Lawson
SPORTS & REC
BOISE STATE ATHLETICS UNVEILS NEW APP FOR STATS, TICKETS AND MORE
The “Boise State Broncos Athletics” app also offers a rewards point system Adam Bridges | Sports & Rec Reporter | sports@stumedia.boisestate.edu
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ccessing all of the latest Boise State sports news just got a whole lot easier. With the launch of the “Boise State Broncos Athletics” app, fans have several resources compiled into one location. Launched on Aug. 2, the new sports app was released just before the start of athletic events so fans wouldn’t miss out. The app is free and is available for download on Google Play and Apple’s App Store. According to the app’s creators, the team had one goal: to deliver an amazing product. Marketing graduate assistant Amber Dalgleish, Director of Community and Fan Engagement Cameron Howard, Assistant Athletic Director Matt Thomas and many others have worked to design this app with Boise State fans in mind. “We really wanted to focus on student engagement and trying to be more active in our community by reaching out and building more connections with them,” Dalgleish said. “We tried to provide fans with the best experience outside of game days.” From team schedules to sporting news, the app has it all. It includes schedules and rosters for every Boise
“We really wanted to focus on student engagement and trying to be more active in our community by reaching out and building more connections with them. We tried to provide fans with the best experience outside of game days.”
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Jeramiah Dickey, Athletic Director
The new “Boise State Broncos Athletics” app includes schedules and rosters for every sport. State Athletics team, a fan guide and a map featuring sporting venues and purchase locations for items such as tickets, merchandise and concessions. “We took everything from team rosters to fan guides and put it all in one place,” Howard said. According to the app developers, their favorite part of the app is the built-in ability to make purchases. “One really cool feature that I’m very excited about is how our app is integrated into our Ticketmaster system, as well as a mobile ordering system for concessions,” Thomas said. “You can place your order on your phone and
then go pick it up. This significantly decreases the time of waiting in line and prevents you from missing out on the action, going out on The Blue or inside the arena.” The app also offers a rewards program for all app users. Users can earn points by attending games and events which can be used towards rewards in the app and will stay with the user until the end of the year. If fans save enough points, they can cash them out for prizes like gift cards, Boise State merchandise, AirPods or even a 40-inch Samsung TV. To win these prizes, however, fans
Corissa Campbell | The Arbiter
should save up their points quickly because high-end prizes are limited. Fortunately, the prizes refresh seasonally, so more prizes will be added that reward points can buy. “If you want to start earning rewards, start building them now so you can be the first to get the top-end prizes,” said Dalgleish.
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SPORTS & REC
BACHMEIER AND SEARS ARE TEAMMATES FIRST, COMPETITORS SECOND
Even in a position battle, Hank Bachmeier and Jack Sears opt to strengthen their relationship and one another Adam Bridges | Sports & Rec Reporter | sports@stumedia.boisestate.edu
The quarterbacks competed in high school before joining the same team at Boise State.
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espite talk surrounding the Boise State quarterback position, Hank Bachmeier and Jack Sears have settled on friendship rather than disunion. The quarterback position reached a point of uncertainty this season. Bachmeier and Sears both played well last season, but both also suffered injuries that hindered their participation. Bachmeier finished the year off as the starting quarterback, but, following Sears’ strong in-game performance, naming a starting quarterback for the upcoming season was not an easy task. Competition does not only originate between teams. Within teams, athletes compete with one another for positions — perhaps the most coveted of which is the football quarterback. Many people assume there is “bad blood” between players in the same position because they are competing for the same job. Though this assumption might be true in some scenarios, Bachmeier and
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Sears are looking to make a connection instead of a division with their teammates. “I don’t think the relationship dynamic changes when fighting for a job,” Bachmeier said. “I’ve done this the last few years. I’ve known Jack since I was in eighth grade, so that relationship’s pretty cool.” The Boise State quarterbacks, third-year Bachmeier and fourth-year Sears, see each other as friends pushing one another to become their best selves, both on and off the field. “I feel like [Sears and I] help each other a lot. We communicate with each other on what we’re seeing and the playbook and just pick at each other’s brains. But on the field, I think we push each other to be better,” Bachmeier said. Sears’ and Bachmeier’s connection didn’t spring solely out of the blue turf. Their relationship formed when they met and played against each other in high school in California. “[Bachmeier and I] had played each other in a high school game and we had
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the opportunity to spend quite a few hours out at a QB camp together,” Sears said. “It’s been fun to get to know him more as a person than as a football player and learn about his dreams outside of football along with what he does to get away from it all.” Today, Sears and Bachmeier’s relationship consists of motivating each other to be the best individual players they can be, as well as striving for and team success. “I think we’ve just grown appreciation for each other. We both know what we do well and what we don’t do well and how we help each other,” Sears said. Head Football Coach Andy Avalos agreed that, looking in from the outside, one might assume that the quarterbacks would hate each other because they are competing, but after getting a better look inside it’s clear that this couldn’t be more far from the truth. While both quarterbacks are gunning hard for the starting position, they have come to the consensus that the team, as a whole, comes before themselves.
Mackenzie Hudson | The Arbiter “I don’t know what people would think or expect to see in a situation like this, but it is probably not what people would hope for in terms of entertainment,” Avalos said. “[Bachmeier and Sears] are walking down the hallway laughing and joking together on the field.” Avalos said that the competitive relationships between players are huge yet often overlooked components of what makes a team great. Not only will the players need to work on becoming better players, but forming better teammate relationships as well. “[Bachmeier and Sears] will both continue to put their best foot forward every day and compete, but are also working to grow their relationship too because that plays a huge part in succeeding as well,” Avalos said.
OUR BEST GUESS THE ARBITER ALIGNS YOUR STARS.
CAPRICORN DEC 22 - JAN 19 Cap, Mars has entered your house of expansion, so you might be hard at work on a new endeavor you were previously apprehensive about.
AQUARIUS JAN 20 - FEB 18 Aquarius, the incoming full moon is about to bring you well-deserved blessings after last month’s moon left you drained and exhausted. This month’s full moon will introduce new opportunities.
PISCES FEB 19 - MAR 20
VIRGO AUG 23 - SEPT 22 PAIGE WIRTA Opinion Editor
opinion@stumedia.boisestate.edu
Pisces, now is the time to focus on your relationships. You may have a desire to connect with a partner, team member or family member. Make sure to stay open minded during difficult discussions.
ARIES MAR 21 - APR 19
Energy has been revolving around you all month, Aries. Single Aries, keep an eye out for new dating opportunities. But Don’t fret if you’re already coupled up — make one-on-one plans with your s/o.
TAURUS APR 20 - MAY 20 This August is going to keep your mind on the domestic aspects of your life, Taurus. Shifting may occur in your family, and someone close to you may need your assistance.
VIRGO AUG 23 - SEPT 22
Virgo, Mars is igniting you and your sign all month long. Pay attention to new desires to tackle new goals. You have the power to make things happen; you just need to follow through.
LIBRA SEPT 23 - OCT 22
GEMINI MAY 21 - JUN 20
Mars is firing up your domestic life, Gem, and all of your focus may be on a pressing family matter. Conflict may arise with a roommate or landlord, but remember handle with care.
With Mars and Venus lighting up your sign this month, take your time to work independently, Libra. Mars will encourage you to lie low and focus on work.
CANCER JUN 21 - JULY 22
SCORPIO OCT 23 - NOV 21
Your communication house is all lit up this month thanks to Mars, Cancer. You’re probably hard at work on a creative project that you’ve been working on for awhile, but don’t lose hope.
Scorpio, your co-ruler Mars is moving through your house of friendship, so you most likely have a full calendar this month. Let yourself connect with new and old friends.
LEO JUL 23 - AUGUST 22
Mars has entered the financial house, Leo, so keep an eye on your wallet. you might have a habit of spending money quicker than you earn it. Now is the time to practice monetary restraint.
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SAGITTARIUS NOV 22 - DEC 21
You might be seeing unprecedented momentum in your professional life, Sag. Career opportunities may pop up often, whether it be a promotion or a new job altogether.
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