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The Daily Beacon • Wednesday, August 19, 2020
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Wednesday, August 19, 2020 • The Daily Beacon
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The Daily Beacon • Wednesday, August 19, 2020
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Letter from the Editor: A new experience on Rocky Top ALEXANDRA DEMARCO Editor-in-Chief
Although it feels inappropriate to discuss anything at all without factoring in the virus, I know this is a phrase you are probably tired of hearing: our fall semester here on Rocky Top is beginning in a way that none of us could have ever predicted. I, perhaps like many of you, had high hopes upon school cancellations in March that by August, America’s situation pertaining to the virus would be significantly better. I did not imagine that five months after COVID-19 forced school closures across America, our country would be in a much worse situation. Unfortunately, there is little we as college students can do to progress the creation of a vaccine or the success of clinical trials. However, there is so much we can do to help halt the spread of coronavirus and make our campus a safer space. For one, wear a mask. Masks are required on campus this semester, and it is imperative that all Volunteers do not take that requirement lightly and view this regulation as a device in place to enhance everyone’s safety. We wear masks because we care not only about protecting ourselves from the virus, but more importantly because we care about protecting others from contracting the virus. To take care of our professors and older members of the Volunteer and Knoxville communities, we must wear face coverings.
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Additionally, we must heed the necessity of social distancing. We are extremely lucky to have a campus located near several state parks and one national park. We have access to quarries, rivers and hiking trails within short car or bike rides. Utilize these areas to practice outdoor social distancing. Keep in mind that an online semester does not have to equate to a boring and mundane one. Take this time to get to know yourself and embrace your academic classes. Be thankful for the fact that you are still able to learn and move your academic life forward, even if you are missing out on the inperson banter that you expected from a collegiate experience. If I have learned anything from living through a global pandemic, it is that life is extremely uncertain, and therefore gratitude is necessary in everyday life. Be thankful for the day and embrace your time as a Vol, even if you’re a Vol doing online school from across the country. And overall, maintain the Volunteer spirit in all that you do. Be mindful of keeping yourself and others safe during this uncertain time. Our staff at The Daily Beacon will be working this semester to ensure that our campus is confidently informed about the state of our university and the virus. We will be here throughout the pandemic to support students and share your stories, and we will still be here when the virus is an entity far away in the rearview mirror. Here’s to another great year on Rocky Top, no matter the current circumstances.
Letter from Dean Shea Kidd Houze SHEA KIDD HOUZE Contributor
Dean Shea Kidd Houze, Courtesy of Student Life Communications
Dear Vols, As we embark on this fall semester, I am nervous-excited (one word) about the future. I imagine you can relate. The past five months have been challenging. The intersections of a pandemic that continues to force adjustments to every perception of “normal” and overt displays of racism situate us in a very important place and time. These moments coupled with the inability to feel — with — people in person have made feelings of disconnection palpable at times. Our ability to be in community with one another is the heartbeat of campus life. Simple things that we once took for granted like sharing spaces and connecting in the Student Union are moments that we now crave. This year, we must remain committed to community at a distance or virtually. Our campus is dedicated to bringing you together while helping you remain safe. As
you move about the campus, you will notice adjustments to common areas, classrooms and living spaces. We will also have expectations in place like wearing a face covering and staying six feet apart. Although physical distancing may feel like a barrier, we cannot let this stop us from creating meaningful experiences. Our commitment to building relationships, learning together and embracing what it means to be a Volunteer is connected to and extends beyond COVID-19. As part of our mission, you will experience a reaffirmed commitment to advance diversity, equity and inclusion. Our leadership team has made this a priority, and we are taking steps to further build a culture of mattering and belonging. In addition, I encourage you to lean into your curiosity as we engage around the 2020 presidential election. As Volunteers, we have the opportunity to model what it means to listen to different viewpoints for understanding and to respectfully disagree. We also have a profound responsibility to give voice through our vote. Now more than ever, we have an obliga-
tion to check on each other, to ask for help, extend grace, protect one another, and speak up when we fail to uphold to Volunteer Creed. “Vol is a verb,” which means we act. We stand up for what is right. We make the sacrifices needed to protect the physical and psychological health of our campus community. What has sustained my hope in these uncertain times is my belief in our spirit and in our collective ability to do hard things. This fall will bring out the best in us, if we let it. Let us show the world what it means to be a Volunteer. While much around us feels different, what remains the same is my love for orange and my admiration for you. I am grateful for the chance to come back to campus and do what Volunteers do best — lead and serve. I will be navigating these new challenges alongside you, and together, we will make this a safe and fulfilling semester. Welcome “home sweet home,” Vols! Dean Shea
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Wednesday, August 19, 2020 • The Daily Beacon
A BETTER NORMAL - A LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
Without a doubt, 2020 has thus far been a year of incredible challenge and change. The emergence of COVID-19 transformed our university system, leading us to the tough decision on March 11 to deliver classes entirely online for the remainder of the spring semester. As president of the University of Tennessee System, I know our state has entrusted us with the education, care and development of more than 50,000 students across our great state. It is a responsibility that I—and all of our chancellors—take very seriously. In planning for this year, Chancellor Donde Plowman and her team have shown great leadership and resolve in preparing to bring faculty and students back to campus. Campus life will look different this fall, and not just in the classroom where curriculum will be delivered in a variety of ways. Without a doubt, COVID-19 is teaching us resilience. As Volunteers, I know that we will use this adversity as the building block on which to rise to new heights. Your education at UT Knoxville is teaching you to be bold and adaptive, to think critically and to be problem solvers. These are skills necessary for navigating life during and after a pandemic. Some advice as you begin your fall semester: Be flexible—it may not be perfect, but your faculty want to continue to provide you with a high-quality education. Take care of each other—be personally responsible for your actions and how it may impact those around you. Have patience—know that the faculty and staff are doing their best to accommodate your needs. Be kind—do your part to show kindness to others, especially when things get hard. Do the obvious—wash your hands, wear your mask and socially distance from others.
We have often heard that we will be experiencing a new normal on our campuses. I argue that we are embarking upon a better normal if we can positively unite together through these unchartered waters. Have a great semester, Randy Boyd University of Tennessee System President
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The Daily Beacon • Wednesday, August 19, 2020
TRECS reopened amidst the ongoing pandemic: How operation has changed during COVID BEN WINIGER Staff Writer Every corner of Rocky Top is preparing to receive its students. Except this time, it’s skipping the handshakes. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic creates new dangers for both students and staff. This is especially true for the Student Recreational and Fitness Center, or TRECS. Gyms are a breeding ground for the virus, with high contact surfaces galore. UT’s signature fitness center is no exception. Students may opt to avoid gyms altogether. For those who don’t, RecSports unveiled the new TRECS — with updated hours and services. Additionally, new policies aim to limit human buildup and ensure facilities remain clean throughout the gym’s opening. Students using the gym must do so at new hours-of-operation. Facilities will open at 6 a.m. and run through noon on weekdays. Service will resume at 4 p.m. and run until 10 p.m., after staff sanitize all equipment and surfaces. On Saturday and Sunday, TRECS will open from 3 to 10 p.m. RecSports also requires cleaning from both staff and gymgoers throughout hours of operation. This includes cleaning weights and machines both before and after use, with wipes and disinfectant spray stationed throughout the facility.
For those worried about keeping materials in stock, RecSports Director Katy Locke wishes to emphasize how prepared TRECS staff are. “RecSports has been preparing for several months, including making sure supply levels are adequate. Our staff are professionals and fully understand the importance of thoroughly cleaning as directed,” Locke said. “We will continue to train and educate our staff on cleaning protocols, and we greatly appreciate the help from our members as we work together to protect each other.” There are no more in-person fitness classes, no more basketball/racquetball court rentals and no more lockers available for use. Fitness classes like yoga are now fully virtual up until Oct. 6, at which point classes will move to a hybrid structure. RecSports allows a limited number of students to play basketball, but they must use only half a court. Locker rooms are limited to their use as restrooms. Weight and cardio equipment is now spread throughout all three floors of the building, with some cardio machines located in the second floor basketball court and weight machines spread throughout the former cardio space on the first floor. To further limit surface contact, students no longer need student IDs to enter. Instead, they will give their name to the front desk before en-
tering via the TRECS turnstiles. Members will exit via one of the basketball courts to avoid unnecessary human contact. These new guidelines, alongside a 400-person capacity limit, are to reduce crowding and alter traffic flow. RecSports hopes these policies will lead to lower infection risk when combined with the aforementioned cleaning requirements. “We worked with Facilities Services to set capacity for TRECS to ensure that at least six feet of distance can be maintained by students while using the facility,” Locke said. “Members are asked to stay six feet from one another in the lobby, and floor markers will show the appropriate distance. TRECS staff will monitor workout spaces and asks for all members to do their part to keep workout areas clean.” Only 400 students are allowed into the building at a time, with staff keeping track via capacity counting software. Capacity information will be kept up to date on the RecSports webpage, allowing students to plan their workouts accordingly. “TRECS staff are using a combination of our member management software and a capacity counting system that links directly to the RecSports website, providing students with real-time updates as to how many people are currently in TRECS,” Locke said. “Students can use this information to decide if they want to visit TRECS from their home or residence hall. The two in-
dependent software systems are monitored continually to ensure accurate counts. RecSports also will also abide by UT’s COVID guidelines, which require daily self-screening via UT’s phone app. In case RecSports participants or workers become infected, staff will contact UT’s contact tracing team. TRECS staff will perform extra facilities cleaning to ensure student safety. Jill Zambito, assistant vice chancellor for Student Life, explained how the contact tracing team operates. “The contact tracing team’s role is to check on a student’s or employee’s situation, help connect them to support resources, provide guidance and help contact others who may need to take precautions,” Zambito said. “If a nonresidential campus space is affected by COVID-19, Facilities Services will identify key people who use the space and communicate with them to discuss temporary closure requirements and coordination of enhanced cleaning and disinfecting.” If students receive messages from the contact tracing team, students are asked to respond as quickly as possible. The TRECS reopened on Aug. 9 and will remain open until the end of the semester in November. All policies are liable to change in light of increased COVID cases.
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Wednesday, August 19, 2020 • The Daily Beacon
University of Tennessee Army ROTC Step Forward and Become a Leader
College is a big enough challenge without the worry of how to pay for it. UT Army ROTC offers full-tuition merit-based scholarships. Find us online: armyrotc.utk.edu or Call 865-974-4512
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The Daily Beacon • Wednesday, August 19, 2020
Safe outdoor activities for when you need to escape campus life KAITLYN C. DANIELS Contributor UT can be a very exciting place to be on the weekends; however, sometimes it is imperative to take a leave of absence from the craziness that is campus life. Escape reality by exploring some of these areas and be sure to take lots of pictures. Hike the Smokies Of course, hiking the Great Smoky Mountains is first on the list. With this huge national park right in UT’s backyard, be sure to stop on by and experience the calming effects of nature. According to the National Park Service, there are, “150 official trails in the park,” which means there is no shortage of new adventures waiting to be explored. Day hikes can take you deep into the history of East Tennessee all while displaying its beauty from waterfalls to endless views of rolling mountains and wildlife. At night, the scenerycanbeseendottedwiththeglowofsynchronized fireflies. No matter what time the park is visited, the beauty of the land shines through. Virginia Creeper Trail The next stop is a little further away from campus; however, it is the perfect distance for alleviating those travel bug days. The 34.3 mile long trail crosses through two counties and is often frequented by bikers. Riders have the choice to rent a bike or bring their own. In the town of Damascus, shuttle services take riders up to Whitetop Station all while discussing the
history of the land. The trail is perfect for beginners and professionals alike because the length can be shortened to make for a less lengthy bike ride, and the majority of the trail is a downhill coast. Don’t forget to bring a camera because the fall scenery of the changing leaves and rolling hills with Christmas tree and pumpkin farms nestled into the valleys is breathtaking. Camp under the stars For more outdoor activities, camping is a great way to reconnect with nature. Tent camping is a relatively cheap option, especially at local state parks. East Tennessee is home to several state parks with varied recreational activities at each. There is so much to do when camping, so boredom should never be an option. Swimming, fishing, hiking, biking, horseback riding, bird watching and stargazing are just a few ideas to help kickstart a fun and memorable time. Geocaching Another inexpensive activity that can be
done just about anywhere is geocaching. This is an outdoor treasure hunting game where people hide and search for hidden caches. Mobile devices or GPS systems are used to pinpoint coordinates where others have left a cache. There are varying levels of caches such as traditional, multi-cache, mystery, earth and event caches to keep each search unique. Prizes range from pride to cash and everything in between. Just download the Geocaching app to get started. Ijams & Navitat Ijams Nature Center is located in Knoxville and has over 10 miles of hiking trails throughout the county. These trails stretch from railroads to caves to scenic waterways, and quarries are open for swimmers. They also offer biking and canoe rentals to keep the adventures forming. Another exciting activity located near Ijams is Navitat. Navitat is a tree-based adventure that offers trails, climbing and ziplining. They offer six trails with ranges of beginner, moderate and difficult ac-
tivities. At night the tree trails are lit by glowing string lights to offer an adventure underneath the stars. Be sure to call ahead to book your reservation, especially at night because spots fill up quickly. Pumpkin patches For a more autumn experience, local farms offer a plethora of fall activities. East Tennessee has many farms with pick-your-own pumpkin patches that also offer hayrides and berry picking. For a more time-consuming activity, corn mazes are a good pastime. Haunted corn mazes can also be a fun and exciting experience. More fall events can be found at local fairs. Besides carnival rides and live entertainment, these fairs hold baking, crafting, photography, crop and cattle contests to keep the fair week chock full of activities for the whole family. Volunteer Who said volunteering can’t be fun? Some of the placeslistedaboveoffer volunteer opportunities. The Virginia Creeper Trail is looking for people to help in the welcome center as a greeter. The Smoky Mountain National Park is always welcoming volunteers to maintain trails and sometimes even to check the biodiversity of the local wildlife on Smokies Service Days. Ijams needs additional help every semester with leading school groups through the trails and with maintaining the trails. Even local state parks also have their own variety of numerous volunteer opportunities including planting native gardens. Just get outside and enjoy the break from all the hustle and bustle of busy college life.
Kaitlyn C. Daniels / Contributor
welcome to
ROCKY TOP Are you interested in joining choir or orchestra? Just scan the QR Code or visit tiny.utk.edu/audition to fill out the form, and we will be in contact with you soon! Choir: no prior experience needed
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Wednesday, August 19, 2020 • The Daily Beacon
WELCOME! FROM STUDENT DISABILITY SERVICES
The mission of Student Disability Services (SDS) is to partner with the campus community in creating equitable access for eligible students while promoting disability-inclusive diversity.
ACCOMMODATIONS Some possible accommodations available to students with documented disabilities include: • • • • • •
Testing Accommodations Sign Language Interpreters or Transcribers Note Taking Assistive Technology Accessible Campus Transportation Accessible Seating
STUDENTS WE SERVE
PEER MENTORS
We serve students with disabilities related to:
SDS offers a peer mentor program to support first-year students with their transition to college. Benefits of this program include recommendations and insights for navigating campus as well as connections to campus resources and organizations. To sign up, or for more information, email sds@utk.edu.
• ADD, ADHD • Learning • Psychological and emotional health • Chronic health diagnoses • Vision • Hearing • Mobility • Autism Spectrum Disorder • Traumatic brain injuries • Temporary injuries
Student Disability Services 100 Dunford Hall | sds.utk.edu | (865) 974-6087 | sds@utk.edu
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UT LIBRARIES
Things may look a little different during the Fall Semester – but UT Libraries always has your back! Remember – we’re always open at lib.utk.edu
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Wednesday, August 19, 2020 • The Daily Beacon
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Vols’ 2020 Campaign amid uncertainty: A return full of changes, new players RYAN CREWS Sports Editor
Tennessee Vols Quarterback #2 Jarrett Guarantano Connor Morss / The Daily Beacon The beginning of the fall semester on Rocky Top means many things, with one of the most notable of these being the return of Tennessee football. As the Vols gear up for the new season, below are some of the key storylines to follow. A changed schedule The coronavirus pandemic has affected many things, and the 2020 SEC football schedule is no
different. The league announced that member schools would be playing a conference-only schedule, which resulted in many highly anticipated matchups like Tennessee-Oklahoma being cancelled. However, SEC fans should take solace in that. Instead the member teams will play an expanded ten-game conference schedule, setting up what could be one of the most entertaining and exciting SEC seasons in years. As for the Vols, they will retain their already scheduled conference opponents including their six Eastern division rivals, permanent rival Alabama and rotating Western opponent Arkansas. For the two other opponents, Tennessee was assigned to host Texas A&M and travel to face Auburn, whom the Vols upset in Jordan-Hare Stadium in 2018. Experienced signal callers Both sides of the ball enter into the fall with experienced signal callers at the helm. On the offense, Jarrett Guarantano started seven of last year’s 13 games and enters the final year of his eligibility. Had spring practice been allowed to go on, Guarantano would have likely faced competition, but instead, he will start the season on top. Across the line, Henry To’o To’o is a little less experienced, but experienced, nonetheless. To’o To’o shined last year next to defensive stalwart Daniel Bituli and ran the defense when Bituli was off the field. While he certainly could have benefited from spring practice, To’o To’o should be
ready to lead the defense. Improvements to already solid lines Some of the older linemen for Tennessee include Darel Middleton and Trey Smith, who is also one of, if not the, emotion leader for the Vols. Others who will offer experience and strong play include Matthew Butler and sixth-year senior Brandon Kennedy. The two tackle spots will both be filled by sophomores Darnell Wright and Wanya Morris, who will both be looking to build and improve upon solid first years in Knoxville. Additionally, the defensive line will be bolstered by the addition of Omari Thomas and Dominic Bailey, while Jackson Lampley and Cooper Mays will bolster the offensive line. Also, pending an NCAA appeal, transfer Cade Mays could make a splash. Questions elsewhere Last year, the running game seemed to be the cornerstone of Tennessee’s game plan, behind the trio of Ty Chandler, Tim Jordan and Eric Gray. While Gray appeared to be on track to take the number two spot from Jordan, Jordan’s expulsion from the team leaves the team vulnerable to injury with only running backs with serious experience. On the outside of the offense, there is next to no experience besides Joshua Palmer in receiving corps, making the team all the more vulnerable. On defense, the Vols will see Quavaris Crouch, Kivon Bennett and Deandre Johnson step into
new roles as starters, and they will need to help make up for the losses of Bituli and Darrell Taylor. This is a young unit that would have benefited mightily from reps during spring practice, but instead will have to learn on the fly this season. The same can be said about the defensive backs who struggled at points during last season and also lost stalwart safety Nigel Warrior. Returning starters Bryce Thompson, Alontae Taylor and Jaylen McCollough, along with whoever fills the fourth spot, will have their work cut out for them this fall. Solid special teams One place Tennessee will not worry going into this fall is the kicking game. Most notably, Brent Cimaglia is coming off an amazing year having made 23 of 27 on field goals including two over 50 yards and converted all 69 extra points. Also returning as punter and kickoff specialist, Paxton Brooks will back his solid past season that featured a 42.0-yard punting average with 11 of his 30 punts within the 20-yard line, as well as converting 46 of his 64 kickoffs into touchbacks. Next up As of publication, the SEC has not finalized schedules, so the Vols’ first game is not known yet, but stay tuned for what should be an exciting 2020 season.
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The Daily Beacon • Wednesday, August 19, 2020
Reducing the spread one mask at a time EMILY STILES Contributor
When UTK first closed its doors to the public in March, medical face masks and other types of personal protective equipment were flying off shelves nationwide. Since then, we have seen constant media coverage on both the effectiveness of face masks and the people who refuse to wear them, despite government mandates and encouragement by leading global health organizations. As part of the third phase of the university’s fall reopening plan, “face coverings” will be a requirement for all students, faculty and staff returning to campus. However, not all masks provide the same level of protection as others, and some can even do more harm than good. Fit and fabric When looking for an effective mask, the most important factors to consider are the fit and the fabrics. Masks that are loose around the edges will not create an effective seal, leaving opportunity for unfiltered air to enter and escape. Using a twist tie, pipe cleaner or garden wire to mold the top of the mask around the nose is the best way to ensure a tight fit.
As far as fabrics are concerned, multiple layers of high thread count cotton is recommended. The World Health Organization suggests a fitted, triple-layer mask made of tightly woven cotton that surrounds a disposable polypropylene filter. How to clean your mask The Centers for Disease Control recommends cleaning a fabric mask after each use. Masks should be cleaned with laundry detergent and can be included in regular loads of laundry. Make sure that when washing a mask, you are using the warmest appropriate water setting for whatever cloth your mask is made of. What to avoid in masks We’ve been told to avoid N95 and medical masks unless you work in the healthcare industry or have a high risk of contracting COVID-19, but now experts are discouraging the use of fabric masks with valves or respirators, as most only filter air coming in, not going out. Do not pull your mask down below your nose. If your nose is not covered and you are carrying the virus, you could still potentially spread COVID-19 particles. You are also at a greater risk of obtaining the virus from some-
Photo by Karolina Grabowska from Pexels
one else if you only cover your mouth while wearing a mask. Where to buy masks Unfortunately, it is difficult to find effective masks in stores, and if you do, they’re probably not the cutest addition to your wardrobe. The good news is, you can buy safe, affordable and stylish masks all while supporting small businesses through online marketplaces. Etsy.com, for example, offers hundreds of handmade mask options that meet the WHO criteria while still being visually appealing.
Etsy also has options in the way of accessibility. Consider purchasing masks made partially of transparent material, or “window masks,” as they are more accessible to people with hearing loss. Some shop owners even offer an anti-fog material, so condensation isn’t a problem. With a wide range of colors and styles, online marketplaces make mask shopping actually enjoyable. Following the university’s mask policy is one of the best ways we can keep each other safe and ensure a successful return to campus this fall.
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Wednesday, August 19, 2020 • The Daily Beacon
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The Daily Beacon • Wednesday, August 19, 2020
Sunrise Supermarket persists through pandemic, supports employees while responding to community concerns AURORA SILAVONG Contributor
A titan of a store stands guard over a bustling stretch of Kingston Pike. The Sunrise Supermarket has long been a mainstay of Knoxville’s Asian-American community. Originally based in Atlanta, the supermarket started as a wholesale company focused primarily on selling to other vendors. They later migrated to East Tennessee in hopes of expanding their wholesale business, but they soon recognized a need for a dedicated Asian grocery that was unmet by smaller establishments and western supermarkets. In the winter of 2009, Sunrise Marketplace was born to meet this demand, quickly rising to become one of — if not the biggest — Asian stores in East Tennessee. Since then, they have been faithfully serving Knoxville’s diverse population, spawning a beloved boba tea shop called Hey Bear Cafe and participating in the annual Knox Asian Festival. One can wander its expansive sales floor
and find a vast selection of products from all around the world. On a shelf near the back of the store, Buddhist figurines, lucky cats with waving paws and a fat Pikachu piggybank greet shoppers pushing carts loaded with fresh veggies, fresh fish and fresh meat. Signs of good luck. This good fortune has not ceased despite the COVID-19 pandemic. The supermarket has remained open the entire time while taking precautionary measures against the virus. Reduced operating hours and a strict face-mask policy have allowed the business to continue serving the community safely and effectively while still prioritizing their workers’ health. Jackie Chao, one of the supermarket’s managers, explained how the business approached the pandemic’s challenges. “We faced some challenges when the safety protocols changed, especially when it came to employee safety,” Chao said. “We gave [our employees] temporary pandemic raises to help them get through this tough time.” Ken Liao, Sunrise’s produce manager, expressed his gratitude for the business’s dedicated employees.
“We are lucky that we have the best employees that put others before themselves, that come to work everyday to keep up with inventory the best they can and make sure that all our customers are happy and safe,” Liao said. The market has implemented online ordering through their website with the option of contactless pick-up to reduce foot traffic in the store. Additionally, during peak times, management will establish capacity limits and have patrons line up outside with social distancing. While other Asian-owned businesses across the country have seen instances of racially-motivated hate crimes, Sunrise has not encountered such behavior from the Knoxville community. Dissatisfaction has arisen mainly from the health and safety measures management has put in place. The complaints cite long queues and having to wait outside in the heat, as well as the perceived excessive use of law enforcement. The company has responded to the criticism on their social media. “As a family-owned business, we are obligated to adhere to the local mandates on health/safety practices,” said a Facebook
post dated July 12. “As human beings, we refuse to compromise on the well-being of our frontline associates and our customers — even if means shortening our operating hours, constantly sanitizing the store, wearing masks all day long and regulating traffic inside the store.” Besides issues of hygiene and sanitation, Sunrise has also faced ongoing inventory shortages. Ninety percent of the store’s products are sourced from outside the country, and with other countries’ economies also grinding to a standstill, some items have become more expensive or have disappeared entirely. The store has previously also enacted limits on staples, such as rice, to curb the hoarding seen at the beginning of the pandemic. Looking forward, it is difficult to say what the pandemic has in store for Sunrise. Business has steadied. Chao and Liao have messages of hope to the community and fellow business owners. “Do the best you can to stay safe,” Chao said. “Safety comes first, and we will get through this together.” Liao shared similar sentiments. “The safety and the health of our families and community are the most important things during these times,” Liao said. “Let’s work together and get through this together.”
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Worship Directory SUNDAY BIBLE STUDY & WORSHIP TUESDAY DISCIPLESHIP Scan for more information about virtual and in-person gatherings! Our ministry is a community of faith for college students dedicated to living life alongside one another and offering love and support through all situations.
If you would like to have your church or Religious organization in the worship directory, contact us at admanager@utk.edu
A guide to social distancing and staying safe ABDULLAH SALIM Contributor With classes resuming and students, faculty and staff returning to campus this fall, many are wondering about how to properly socially distance themselves and stay safe in the backdrop of a global pandemic. Dr. Spencer Gregg, MD, director of the Student Health Center, went over a number of key preventative measures that he recommends the campus community follows and keeps in mind as they work to stay safe and healthy this fall. “Students can protect themselves and protect others by following the habits listed in the Volunteer Commitment,” Gregg said. Some of the measures included in the Volunteer Commitment are: * Wearing a mask on campus as instructed, including in classrooms. * Washing hands frequently with soap and water, and using hand sanitizer. * Practicing social distancing and following protective guidelines when social distancing is not possible. * Acting quickly to follow instructions for testing and contact tracing. * Monitoring personal health and following medical instructions. * Following instructions for cleaning and hygiene on campus. Gregg stressed that many of these steps ought to be followed both on and off-campus. “It is especially important that students understand that they need to follow prevention habits not just on campus but off campus, too,” Gregg said. “Wear masks as directed off campus and be mindful of social distancing at restaurants, parties, bars, stores and events. There are plenty of ways to have fun and hang out with friends while staying out of big crowds and wearing masks when needed.” Gregg also explained that for this semester to be a safe and successful one, students, faculty and staff need to be responsible for their own personal health and wellbeing. This means that campus community members need to check their health daily and stay in if they feel sick. They can use the daily health self-screening form, which is available online
at selfscreen.utk.edu or through the Tennessee app. If a student is advised to self-isolate, it’s important that they complete the university’s self-isolation form. Amber Williams, vice provost for Student Success, seconded Gregg’s emphasis on completing daily health self-checks and explained that students who feel sick and end up self-isolating will have a number of resources available to them. “If a student’s self-isolation or health condition could affect their ability to participate in classes, I recommend they communicate with their instructors right away,” Williams said. “Instructors will have options for self-isolated students such as participating remotely through Zoom at the regular class time or viewing course content and completing assignments on their own time. Our goal is to make sure the need to self-isolate is not a barrier to an education at UT.” For its part, the UTK administration, in partnership with faculty, staff and health professionals, has been working tirelessly over the summer on a number of initiatives aimed at preparing the UTK campus for returning and new students this fall. In addition to introducing hybrid and online classes to reduce over-crowding on campus and allow for social distancing, UTK has also mandated wearing facial coverings on campus, and the university will provide coverings to all students. Signage and physical barriers have also been added to help ensure social distancing. Gregg elaborated on some of the other initiatives and changes instituted. “Enhanced cleaning is in effect across campus. Hand sanitizer stations have been placed throughout campus. We are installing touchless faucets, encouraging touchless transactions and adding mobile ordering for food,” Gregg said. “We have waived the requirement for first-year students to live on campus to reduce the number of students in residence halls.” Ultimately, students coming back to campus will see a lot of new changes and preventative measures, and they will also play a big role in slowing the spread of COVID-19 by wearing masks, washing hands, following social distancing and monitoring their health.
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How to get involved on campus in the COVID-19 era, while socially distancing JAKE YODER City News Editor
Getting involved on campus is one of the most important things a UT student can do to make Knoxville feel like home. Even though this semester may be a bit different from normal, there are still plenty of things to do at UT, both in-person and virtually. Though the country is still far from overcoming the COVID-19 pandemic, many cities, including Knoxville, have loosened their restrictions on public and group gatherings. According to UT’s COVID-19 event guidelines, meetings/events are limited to 50 attendees or less, though this may change as local health regulations are adjusted. Additionally, all who choose to attend these meetings/events will be required to maintain social distancing and wear face masks at all times. Even with all of these new rules and guidelines, Olivia Lazar, the president of UT’s Organization Resource Group, assures that there will still be plenty of fun things to participate in around campus. “We want every student to get involved on campus and find their place and their home here, so we are still doing as much as we can to motivate the student body,” Lazar said.
Perhaps the best ways for new and returning students to find out about clubs and organizations on campus in past years were the biannual engagement fairs hosted by the ORG. While these events won’t be held in person this year, they will still take place online. “There will still be a virtual Student Engagement Fair that any student can get online during and visit with any organization available,” Lazar said. “Additionally, we will also still be pushing out our events and other organization’s events in hopes of getting a lot of student involvement.” Jonathan Lochner, the president of the Campus Events Board, noted that students should keep an eye on social media from UT and other organizations as there will be fewer opportunities for events to be marketed on campus. “VOLink will also be an easy and efficient way for students to stay up to date on events that pertain to them or they might be interested in,” Lochner said. “The CEB will especially be pushing our calendar using QR codes linked to our VOLink calendar.” Seeing as how many of campus’s larger events, such as Vol Night Long and Volapalooza, are led and organized by CEB, Lochner assured that any events that were already planned for the 2020-2021 school year will still be occurring.
GET INVOLVED Peer Mentoring Program The PRIDElist Safe Zone at UT Friendsgiving National Coming Out Day Lavender Graduation Discussion groups ... and more!
STAY IN TOUCH Web: pridecenter.utk.edu Email: pridecenter@utk.edu Facebook: @utkpridecenter Instagram: @utpridecenter Twitter: @utpridecenter Lounge space closed fall 2020 due to COVID-19
“After multiple zoom calls we did decide to keep the line up that was originally planned, but transition any event that can be virtual to virtual,” Lochner said. “In terms of guidelines, we will be strictly abiding by all guidelines to the tee so that all attendees and our members will be and feel safe when they come to any of our events.” Lochner also emphasized that CEB will be enforcing proper social distancing at their events, checking temperatures at the door, requiring masks, choosing larger outdoor
venues and providing hand sanitizer. CEB will also be continually monitoring Knoxville’s COVID-19 case numbers and reevaluating inperson events as time goes on. Students looking for ways to get involved on campus will still have amble opportunity this semester, even though things might be a little different. Keeping an eye on Virtual Engagement Fairs and checking VOLink are two great ways to make sure that you can get involved with any organization still operating on campus. File / The Daily Beacon
SIGN THE PRIDELIST Show your support for the LGBTQ+ community at UT! Open to all with UT affiliation (student, faculty/staff, alum)!
For more info: tiny.utk.edu/pridelist2020
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the daily beacon
crossword & sudoku
your morning coffee’s best friend. Daily Egyptian 9/14 Crossword 1
LOS ANGELES TIMES CROSSWORD • Edited by Rich Norris and Joyce Lewis
STR8TS No. 502
Medium
6
3 4 4 5 3 5 2 7 6 8 6 8 7 2 9
3 5 4 1 3
1 6
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Previous solution - Easy
7 9 4
8 4 9 5
2 9
© 2020 Syndicated Puzzles
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You can find more help, tips and hints at www.str8ts.com
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9 8 3 1 6 7 2 9 8 8 6 7 4 3 5 4 2 5 3 4 6 2 4 3 7 5
Across 6 8 7
1 4 7 10 13
2 1 5 4
How to beat Str8ts – Like Sudoku, no single number can repeat in any row or column. But... rows and columns are divided by black squares into compartments. These need to be filled in with numbers that complete a ‘straight’. A straight is a set of numbers with no gaps but can be in any order, eg [4,2,3,5]. Clues in black cells remove that number as an option in that row and column, and are not part of any straight. Glance at the solution to see how ‘straights’ are formed.
SUDOKU No. 502
Very Hard
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5 3 6 1 8 4 7 2 9
9 5 6 7 2 8 3 1 9 7 8
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6 8
Previous solution - Tough
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The solutions will be published here in the next issue.
© 2020 Syndicated Puzzles
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PuzzleJunc
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8 4 5 6 3 1 9 7 2
6 5 4 8 2 9 3 1 7
7 9 3 5 1 6 2 4 8
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To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 such that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely.
51 52 54
For many strategies, hints and tips, visit www.sudokuwiki.org
55 57 59 62 63 64
If you like Str8ts, Sudoku and other puzzles, check out our books, iPhone/iPad Apps and much more on our store at www.str8ts.com
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14 15 13 Sapphire, e.g. Newspaper div. 19 17 18 Pants part 22 21 Elevator part It’s next to 23 24 25 nothing Samurai’s sash 32 33 30 31 Gardner of film 34 35 36 “To Autumn,” e.g. 37 38 39 40 41 Mexican shawls Governed 43 42 Beams 44 45 46 One of Columbus’s ships 52 53 51 Charged particles Plaudits 55 56 57 58 Duration 62 59 60 61 Liquor designation 64 65 63 Cereal grain Nairobi’s land 68 69 67 Butts Copyright ©2014 PuzzleJunction.com Wreath for the head 11 Fruity drink 65 Historic period Rich dessert 12 Traffic stopper 66 Conceit Salad leaves 18 Likewise 67 Smidgen Playwright 20 Rich and 68 ___ Cayes, Haiti Bogosian elaborate cake 69 Deviation Stockpile 22 Construction 70 Commotion Work unit worker NZ flightless 25 Unwakable state Down birds 27 Brings to a close Cry of pain 1 Dish the dirt 28 Deli loaves King of Thebes 29 Jerry Herman 2 Bewitch Emergency CB musical 3 Fine wool channel 4 Make do 31 Little amphibians Boo-boo 5 More than plump 33 Criticize Docket 35 Hearty brew 6 French flower Ordained 36 French friend 7 Rodeo item Dynamic 8 Media attraction 37 Pottery material In the style of 38 Before spun or 9 Trot or canter King Kong, e.g. run 10 Bamboozle
puzzles Wednesday. NewNew puzzles every every Monday and Thursday. NOW HIRING DRIVERS & COOKS
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39 Like an oxeye window 40 City on the North Platte 41 Therefore 45 Wears away 47 Arrow poison 48 Season 49 Deep blue 50 Manatee 52 Brunch serving 53 Nigerian money 56 Down-to-earth 58 Bite like a beaver 59 Apply gently 60 Actor Wallach 61 Mouse catcher 62 Essential
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New changes to UT Dining for safer experiences CALISTA BOYD Managing Editor
A huge concern for incoming college students is navigating the different dining halls and finding ways to use your meal plan effectively. For this semester, and possibly longer, UT dining is looking extremely different than before. Now, student traffic and employee numbers are limited in order to minimize the risks of COVID-19 spreading among the UT population. The dining halls, especially, will be introducing many precautions that returning students will be surprised by. While it mirrors how many restaurants have been functioning in the past few months, the dining halls will no longer be popular social/gathering areas; the primary use will be to simply feed students and limit the amount of traffic flowing through the dining halls. All dining locations will have numerous signs and location markers for people to follow social distancing rules. Physical barriers will also be placed around locations to help ensure the safety of both students and staff members. Students should remain six feet apart at all times and eight feet apart when dining. As expected, dining halls have removed all of the self-service type stations and are now at-
tended by staff members. Dining locations on campus are also no longer accepting cash, so it is important to have your student ID card or debit/credit card on you at all times. The biggest change will be the option for reserving seats to physically dine in the halls or the option to order food from dining services like “take-out” orders. Reservations are mandatory for in-person dining in Fresh Food Company, PCB Cafe and Southern Kitchen. In order to facilitate these different transactions, UT dining is recommending students to download the app called GET Food. This app will be a key part of practicing safe social distancing procedures everyday. The app is very easy to navigate and requires minimal set-up; you only need to choose the university and enter in your Net ID and password. The GET Food app will not only service students in terms of the UT dining halls, but it can also be used to order food from the on-campus restaurants. As dining is such an essential part of social networking and getting to know people, reducing group sizes when eating and limiting close-distance contact with people while eating is unappealing for many. It is important to encourage others to follow CDC guidelines and participate in the collective effort in keeping COVID-19 cases low on Rocky Top. Happy dining, Vols!
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