The BC Collegian - Vol 109, Issue 4 - Friday, October 23

THE

COLLEGIAN Friday, October 23, 2020 | Volume 109, Issue 4 | North Newton, KS

Two Bethel students talk a walk on a crisp fall day, appreciating the colorful foliage of the wide variety of tree species on campus. Photo by Emily Brandt

2

Mennonites and a tradition of activism

3

Editorial: Utilize your local libraries

6

Trees around campus and their history

9

Teams adjust their season plans and safety procedures

11

Are Bethel winter events happening?

2 NEWS

Professors adapt office hours for virtual meeting time

BETHANY POWLS Staff Writer

Advocated as one of Bethel’s best sources of faculty to student collaboration, students are highly encouraged by their professors to take advantage of office hours.

With the looming threat of schedule changes, activity cancellations and the potential spread of viral infections, professors on campus have restructured the way that they structure their office hours.

“In past years, I took “walk-ins” nearly any time that I was in my office, though I encouraged making an appointment to make sure I had time set aside for them. This year, I’m only doing virtual appointments.

Students have to plan ahead a little more, but my hours are actually a bit more flexible overall…” Amber Celestin, director for student success and retention and instructor of

English, said.

Many of the departments are handling office hours on more of an individual basis, with the most dramatic change being that opendoor policies are being altered to fit the needs of students.

“In the Education Department we have each posted office hours as we have done in the past… More commonly, students send an email expressing a need to meet, and we respond with options. Most often students request meeting online with a Zoom link at an agreed upon time.

In those instances, we send the link and follow through with the meeting at the arranged time,” Allen Jantz, professor of education and director for teacher education, said.

The first of the two major formats being used for virtual communication has been Zoom.

“We use Zoom to conduct our meetings with students… Generally speaking, I send an invite via Google

Calendar which, when accepted, populates on the Google calendar with all the information. I know that there have been times when Internet connections have been an issue, but more recently, I believe Bethel has sufficient bandwidth for my purposes,” Jantz said.

The second main format that professors have been using is the BigBlueButton as accessed through Moodle, Bethel’s chosen online platform for education.

“I’m using a ‘virtual office’ with BigBlueButton on the Student Success site in Moodle… In general, I’ve had a lot of success with the virtual office. I copy and paste the link directly into the google calendar invite, so it’s pretty easy to navigate to it. Once in the virtual space, we can screen share to look at an essay draft or walk through something on Moodle together. We can easily turn webcams on/off as needed to conserve bandwidth. We can use the

chat box if our mics aren’t working.

I’ve been able to make this format work for pretty much everything so far,” Celestin said.

When you send an email to ask for a meeting, provide several potential days/times that you are free. If the professor has specific office hours, check those first so you can offer times that you are free during those office hours. “Our schedules are all crazy right now, so avoid giving just one specific time, and give several days throughout the week… make sure to put it on your Google calendar, along with where the meeting will be held…” Celestin said.

Students are asked to check in with their professor to find out how to best conduct office meetings.

“Scheduling times to meet, for me, can be a laid back process. The quickest and easiest way to contact me is via email and I can respond, hopefully fairly quickly. Sometimes

the question can be answered in the email itself, however, there are many times when a single question will require a much more detailed response and so, having a meeting would be best. I should add, however, I am here for my students… my time is time that I willingly use for them to ensure their success,” Jantz said.

Additionally, students are also asked to prepare for their meeting in a way that will help the professor best meet their needs, especially if technology should provide an obstacle.

“Start getting the technology for virtual meetings ready at least five minutes ahead of the meeting time (find reliable internet, make sure your mic and webcam are on, etc). Write a list of specific questions beforehand so you don’t forget anything. Have something to take notes with so you can be sure to get the most out of the meeting,” Celestin said.

Juhnke) were initially drawn toward the Republican Party.

Though Republican influence still holds sway, Jantzen notes a change.

“In the 60’s and 70’s they [Kansas Mennonites] were influenced by social justice movements, particularly by those inspired by the Vietnam War, and some became more attracted to the Democratic Party,” Jantzen said.

Bethel College, led by its Mennonite students, saw a political awakening during this period. The staunch pacifism of the Mennonites drove the campus to partake in the 1969 ‘Moratorium Day’ in protest against the government’s ongoing persecution of the Vietnam War, for which it received a personal reference in Life Magazine.

The October 24 edition titled ‘Day of Dissent’ described how, almost exactly fifty one years ago, “members of the Bethel College Peace Club borrowed an old church bell from the College museum for four days, and rang it once every four seconds in memory of each US soldier killed in Vietnam.”

The events are well

remembered - that same bell is still rung on several special occasions in the College’s yearly calendar. The protests at Bethel were somewhat shocking for the time, considering the Mennonites’ heavy association with the conservative right.

Yet James Juhnke, who ran as a candidate in the elections to the House of Representatives in 1970, insists that Bethel’s Moratorium was a religious event in his Stories of Kansas Mennonites in Politics, published in 2017.

It is clear that Bethel’s involvement in political activism stemmed directly from the principles of the college’s founders, and from the Mennonite community more broadly.

The divisions between progressive and traditional Mennonites have become more clearly defined over time. Jantzen observes how there is now a clear divide between urban and rural in the politics of the community, which is a recurring feature across all of American political life.

Newton itself, and particularly the areas close to Bethel College, are now far more heavily associated

with the Democrats than with the Republicans. Jantzen noted how the Democratic representative to the 72nd District (Newton, North Newton and the surrounding areas) of Kansas, the Mennonite Tim Hodge, lives just across from the Kauffman Museum. Certainly, the activism on social issues that was seen at Bethel in the last century has continued in the present day, with a number of current and former

students becoming engaged with the Black Lives Matter movement over this past summer.

Thus, with Bethel’s own history of political activism fresh in our minds, we can turn once again to the election that is even now unfolding across Kansas and the United States. The events in November will certainly live long in memory of this college, and of this country.

Tradition of Mennonite activism prevails for Bethel community ARRAN KEARNEY Staff Writer

Bethel has not been immune to the great political awakening that America as a whole is undergoing in the build up to this election, which promises to be one of the most dramatic and consequential in living memory. In light of the enthusiasm that has been displayed on campus, we decided to explore some of the college’s own political history, which has, of course, been forever intertwined with the activism of local Mennonite communities. Mark Jantzen, professor of history, is one of the many resident Mennonite experts here at Bethel.

“The tenants of the Mennonite religion as interpreted by the founders of Bethel made political activism almost inevitable. The college was built by Mennonites who decided to engage with society… and felt impulses to improve society even back in the nineteenth century,” Jantzen said.

Political activism started small, and the new ‘progressive’ Mennonites (so named by the former Bethel student and professor James

A Peace Pilgrim serves alum, former history professor, and long time political activist James Juhnke, who wrote a “History of the Kansas Mennonites in Politics.” Provided by the Mennonite Library and Archives; located by Arran Kearney

OPINION 3

EDITORIAL Use local libraries

ALLISON WEAVER News Editor

If you’re a penny-pinching college student or a financially conscious community reader, do me a favor and picture this scenario you’ve lived a thousand times: you’re at home, bored out of your brains and trying to find something to do that doesn’t spend money. You’ve already walked around the park, eaten at every restaurant in town and are getting close to the ‘running naked through the street just to feel something’ level of boredom. You start to think “If only there was a public and free space where I could stimulate my mind with any number of free services!”

Obviously, the place I am leading you to is a public library.

The unsung heroes of our society today, these wonderful gems exist in almost every town in the world in some form or another: mobile, fixed, online and specialized.

Getting a card takes five minutes, giving you access to computers, printers, digital databases, wifi and more books than you could ever hope to read.

Even if reading isn’t your cup of tea, the library still has services for you! For example,

the Hesston Public Library offers fishing poles, cake pans and puzzles for check-out. As a baker and lover of novelty food, buying a cake pan in a shape you’ll only need once can quickly add up and clutter a kitchen. I feel much better about checking one out, and it also gives me the opportunity to think about the joy from all the baked goods to come out of it, spreading among strangers.

Local libraries are hubs for local history, and wonderful places to reflect on what life used to be like in your area.

Often, librarians are some of the most informed people in your area, and experts at local history and researching other topics alike. They have specialist knowledge, and the resources and expertise to sift through information for relevant details: a skill especially relevant when information online is untrustworthy at times.

In-person public libraries also offer, in our late-stage capitalist America, the unique opportunity to exist without the expectation of spending money.

You can take a thermos of coffee or tea, park your butt in any number of comfortable chairs, and not be bothered until closing time, without worrying about buying something every few hours to earn your spot at a table.

Furthermore, having a study space away from a dorm is an invaluable resource, especially on days when classes are all online.

Moving from a ‘relaxing space’ to a ‘productive space’ automatically switches me into work mode, I have noticed, and keeps me engaged without checking social media or wanting to nap in a bed that is

two feet away.

Additionally, anybody who says libraries are a breed of the past are painfully mistaken.

Libraries everywhere have adapted to the digital age, and have done it with style. Many libraries have online books for check out, as well as audiobooks and online magazines, compatible with ereaders and iPads alike.

For voracious readers or frequent travelers, these resources provide lightweight entertainment that can go wherever you do.

As an English major and one prone to checking out more books than she can read in two weeks, I have encountered late fees galore. It can be a bitter pill to swallow, but even if you end up with fees, you can take solace in the knowledge that your 10 or 20 cents help fund these public spaces and improve them for the community that they serve - YOU!

Word on the Street What was your favorite Halloween costume as a child?

Caydince Finch

FIRST-YEAR “My favorite Halloween costume was a zombie volleyball player!”

Edel Miller

SOPHOMORE “My favorite costume growing up was Athena.”

Oscar Gonzalez

SENIOR

“Every Halloween I always dressed up as a vampire.”

Adam Sigwing Allison Weaver is a sophomore English and communication arts double major at Bethel College. She is the News Editor for the Bethel Collegian.

SENIOR “I was always a ninja for Halloween.”

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The Bethel Collegian will accept letters of up to 250 words. The editor reserves the right to reject or edit letters for purposes of clarity, good taste and accuracy, and to prevent libel. Letters attacking a private individual will not be permitted. Anonymous letters also will not be accepted. Letters must include a signature, address, and phone number.

Before letters to the editor are printed, contributors will be contacted to verify their submission.

EMAIL: collegian@bethelks.edu

4 OPINION

THRESHPECTIVES: staff writers share their perspectives

What is your opinion on the alterations made to break schedules here at Bethel?

School breaks enhance student performance

In my more difficult. Sure, we can adapt and experience, as a find a way to make it through, but I don’t Bethel College believe we will truly gain anything from student, the breaks an experience as such, even if we find that we have ways to adapt. received are one of In addition to that, not returning the most necessary during the most crucial part of the things to keep up semester (a.k.a. finals) could have a a student’s mental severely negative impact on students’ health and morale. grades. Last year, when we were thrown MASON WILKINS All people into the brand new world of online Staff Writer need is an extended learning, there was more of a transitional break away from time where students and teachers alike school with no assignments and no stress were trying to guide each other on about school. Spending that time either this journey. There was also ample with friends or family is one of the most time for adjustments to be made and important things for a student’s overall conversations to be had about finals. well-being.

This time around, When we received once Thanksgiving “For me the news of fall break break concludes, we personally, being removed, I are basically thrown working in a know there was a bit into studying for the of frustration among make or break exams/ classroom is students because, while projects of our grade. It something that this break is relatively doesn’t seem beneficial improves and small, it works wonders to professors or the enhances my for students and entirety of the student teachers alike. It allows learning abilities.” body, especially when them to quiet their we attend Bethel minds from the stress College for an inthat is learning and teaching, and allows person learning experience. them just be. And while I believe that the I believe that one thing the leadership college thinks they are doing us a favor board could have done is communicated by doing online classes for finals and for with the students on this in a dialogue giving us an extended Christmas break, format, where both sides can speak about in a lot of ways, it is counterproductive. what is implied with this decision. Yes, In my opinion, the biggest issue less school days are obviously great for with the removal of these breaks and not pretty much every student on paper, but being able to return after Thanksgiving thinking about everyone’s individual is that these decisions will directly result learning capabilities and rate for success in students not being able to achieve is important for maintaining the morale the balance that they may need when of the students during trying times such working on obtaining a degree. as these.

For me personally, working in a classroom is something that improves and enhances my learning abilities; I Mason Wilkins is a senior business and know that there are plenty of other that communications major at Bethel College. He is are similar to me in this way. For those a staff writer for the Bethel Collegian. like myself, not having the option to return will make school increasingly

The effect on students depends on involvement Around I asked Toon how he thought the three weeks transition to online classes would be and ago, President how much of an affect this will have on Jonathan Gering him and his learning. broke the news to “It’s not going to be easy, online students that they education of course isn’t the same as inwould be heading person learning. You retain and just pay home early, with attention more during in-person classes, break starting so, yes, it will be more difficult and I am the evening of going to have to prepare myself and stay MARCUS LABONDE November 20. focused during that time,” Toon said.

Staff Writer This sort of sent With most of this first semester being a number of primarily online and some students not returning students into a bit of a panic, having the chance to do an in-person as it hit a little too close to home. lecture for some of their classes, it won’t Last spring, the college sent students be anything drastically new for many of home with just a few days of warning. the students at Bethel. I asked Toon what Many students dealt the best part of the nowith the same thing from return was and this is last year, when school what he had to say: was canceled and the “The good thing “Students get community moved entirely to go home, see for me and my team to online education for the we get to play their families isthethat rest of a semester. season. That’s the The only difference is and have a break most important thing that this time it is in the from these crazy because we all want first semester and not the circumstances.” to play and win and second. As a result, their represent Bethel as are a few Threshers who best as we can. And are not very affected by this as long as we get that decision and some who are more affected opportunity, my team and I will be than others. happy.”

Lane Toon, a first-year basketball There is good that comes out of this player, was stunned when he heard the situation: we won’t have students getting news that the rest of the in-person school sick on campus and spreading the virus semester was getting canceled and that to other students. Students get to go everyone would be finishing up school home, see their families and have a break virtually. This didn’t necessarily directly from these crazy circumstances. They apply to Toon as a member of the men’s get the time to relax and rejuvenate their basketball team here at Bethel. With the mind and body for the next upcoming season kicking off in October and going semester that hopefully will have no through January, Toon will be the one of restrictions. the only students on the Bethel campus when everyone departs.

“It’s going to be very weird. It’s Marcus LaBonde is a first-year student almost going to be a ghost town on the at Bethel College. He is a staff writer for the campus where I am not seeing anyone Bethel Collegian. really for a month and a half. It’s going to have to take some getting used too and a grind to get through,” Toon said.

FEATURES 5

IMS Department services technology for alternative learning MIKI HARKINS Web Media Editor

The IMS department encompasses Audio & Visual (AV) services, Web Development and Infrastructure. AV services include setting up microphones, speakers, projectors, cameras, etc., as well as staffing events such as convocation. Web Development designs and maintains Bethel’s various websites.

Infrastructure is responsible for the networks, software and servers that run Bethel’s systems, and maintaining the computers on campus.

The IMS department also hires students to work the Help Desk, which on a typical day, they may receive requests for help on any number of many different issues. The department is usually busiest around the beginning of the fall semester and the end of spring. During the academic breaks, IMS typically does maintenance or

installs new systems that require a longer period of downtime.

This year, however, has brought many new challenges to the department due to COVID-19.

“This past Spring, prior to (and during) the shutdowns, IMS staff scrambled to accommodate technology requests.

The majority of these requests were to enable working and learning from home for faculty, staff and students. The additional cost of equipment was especially challenging due to Bethel’s budget crunch. Once the majority of requests were taken care of, the IMS department transitioned to primarily working from home. With most of the department off-campus we were unable to undertake some planned summer projects and maintenance,” Director of Information and Media Services Adam Haag said.

The need for social distancing has led the department to make special modifications to some of the

Bryce Wilson, sophomore from Sterling, works for IMS and is pictured ‘crimping’ a Ethernet cable. Photo courtesy of Bryce Wilson

larger venues on campus so that in-person teaching may still happen.

“This year, we have very few events that need AV services (due to social distancing guidelines).

Instead, AV and IMS are responsible for the classroom technology we have deployed in Memorial Hall, Krehbiel Auditorium, the Chapel, and the outdoor tent. We set up and take down equipment for each class in those venues. This has kept us on our toes as changes occur often according to COVID-19 color status,” Media Services Coordinator and Technical Director of Theater Damon Klassen said.

The most recent struggle with the technology on campus deals with the bandwidth across the two internet connections.

“The increased usage of video conferencing has definitely had an effect on this.

The lack of server storage space on our network has been an issue for some time, however the necessity for recorded online material has made this a critical issue. We are in the process of obtaining a new storage system that will have 4x the amount of space we had before,” Haag said.

The age of the technology on campus affects the network speed because the equipment is either at capacity or is missing key features. This limits what can be done to expand the network until replacements are made.

“Recently however, IMS has focused efforts on improving the student experience. Special attention has been given to updating the networking equipment in the residence halls, the in-classroom computers, and the internet connection in general. Our goal is to put the best we have in front of and in the hands of students... however

The IMS Help Desk can be found on the lower level of Mantz Library.

Photo by Bethany Powls

there are still areas that need improvement,” Haag said.

Network switches have been replaced in Haury and new ones will be coming to Voth soon as well. The Mods already have updated switches.

Recent maintenance by the school’s internet provider has also helped to improve Bethel’s internet connection. To improve the signal coverage, one might suggest simply that more access points be deployed, but this would not be the best solution for Bethel because the current equipment would actually just slow it down.

“It would be unwise to expand upon either the Warkentin Wi-Fi network or the rest of campus without addressing the crucial need to unify the Wi-Fi networks into one modern system that has vendor support and is itself manageable and expandable. In essence, Bethel needs to completely revamp its Wi-Fi infrastructure and expand coverage across campus. This is a very costly

capital project. There is an upcoming ‘Engage the Future’ capital campaign. Part of the plan for this campaign is to devote dollars to technology upgrades – which includes Wi-Fi upgrades,” Haag said.

The IMS department has contributed a lot to making Bethel’s technology better, but their efforts take time due to the expenses. Over the past 14 months they have replaced more than 25 desktops on campus and have obtained over 30 laptops.

“We are committed to making technology experiences the best we can. We appreciate the Bethel community’s patience and understanding as we work to improve technology across campus,” Haag said.

Klassen and Haag both encourage students interested in technology to apply for a campus job in the IMS department working the help desk or to apply for a job with BC AV if interested in audio/ video production.

THE BETHEL COLLEGE COLLEGIAN

6 FEATURES

The history of trees on campus ALLISON WEAVER News Editor

Bethel College’s campus is known far and wide for its gorgeous architecture, storied past and its tight knit community ties. However, one thing that can’t be overlooked is its wealth of natural beauty, especially as autumn breezes change green leaves to explosions of red, orange and gold.

Bethel has been blessed with a wide variety of different species of these gentle giants. Jon Piper, current professor of biology and a distinguished chair in plant science, has done intense research and cataloging of Bethel’s tree population, estimates as many as 42 species reside here among the student body.

The science behind these sudden and dramatic changes in the campus foliage resides deep inside the leaves themselves.

Bethel alum of ‘67, and former Biology and Environmental professor Steve Schmidt described the process as being impacted by many factors.

“Light, dark, temperature, water and the biggest factor is when the days begin to shorten. During shorter days, light changing signals to trees that they need to start protecting themselves for winter. At the base of the leaves, an abscission layer of cells forms. The cells in this layer die and

Capri Bisom, junior from Barrington, New Jersey, hugs one of the American Beech trees in front of Haury, displaying the thickness of the trunks.

Photos by Bethany Powls

dry up, causing sugars to get trapped in the leaves. Then, the sun bakes the sugar and makes pigments form. The green chlorophyll fading away reveals the colors behind it; for example, yellow pigment like keratin is always there, but the green covers them up.

When the trees get the signal to stop sending food and using resources for the winter, chlorophyll dies, and the yellows and oranges shine through,” Schmidt said.

Fascinatingly, some trees have been bred specifically for their brilliant fall colors. One example of this is the Autumn Blaze red maple, which Bethel students will recognize as residing by the Krehbiel Science Center, and draws attention as one of the first trees to turn annually.

Other notable species on Bethel’s campus include two American Beech trees, directly in front of Haury’s secondary entrance. Schmidt estimates that, given their size, they were likely planted around the time when Bethel’s campus was first developed in the 1880s. That puts their age at a whopping 140 years old, and they show it. Each of these giants would take three people to encircle them with their arms, and were included in a National Champion Registry several years ago for their size and leafy crown.

Further fascinating varieties include a ginkgo tree near Warkentin Court, and Eastern white pines near the football stadium. The latter are noteworthy for their rarity in the Midwest, and the former for its classification as an endangered species.

Lastly, several of the Bur oaks by the Krehbiel Science Center and the Will Academic Center were planted as “centennial trees” for Bethel’s anniversary. Bur oaks are by far the

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2020 species represented the most on Bethel’s campus, with over 25 of them planted on the grounds.

Due to Kansas’ native prairie habitat, many species of trees were introduced, rather than naturally occurring on the landscape. Schmidt theorized that many breeds were introduced by settlers on the prairie bringing seeds from their home countries. Piper agrees, furthering that one of the oak trees by the Sand Creek trail-head that was started from an acorn that came from “the old country,” a point of fascination for Bethel history buffs.

Around the 1930s, a federal effort named the Prairie States Forestry Project aimed to control soil and wind erosion in response to the Dust Bowl. As a result, along the Sand Creek Trail, a shelter belt was planted along the canal.

This act introduced species such as ceder, pines, Osage orange, Kentucky coffee, and the Siberian elm. The number of species continues to grow on this proud property.

Bethel trees have long since been a focus of students and staff alike. Siobhan Scarry, Associate Professor of English, has long taught an Environmental Writing class for naturally inspired writers. Additionally, Jeni E. Reichenberger, an alum of 2018, did a seminar study on campus flora.

Her seminar, The Woody Landscape of the Bethel College Campus and its Potential Wildlife Benefits, detailed the innumerable resources that trees provide, for both wildlife and the human population of Bethel. Her findings revealed that Bethel has an outstandingly diverse population of trees, even when one excludes the Sand Creek trail in the species count.

In times where one is hard-pressed to find a COVID safe activity, community and campus dwellers can delight in the natural autumnal beauty of Bethel with a walk through Sand Creek Trail. And take solace in knowing that, in a year of such upheaval, the trees don’t change; their comforting cycles carry us through the seasons.

FEATURES 7

Trees in front of the Student Center turn red, orange and yellow, visible to Mojo’s customers as well. Photo by Emily Brandt

An Autumn Blaze red maple displays its beautiful red coloring near Krehbiel Science Center. Photo by Emily Brandt

A maple tree next to Mantz Library shows off its fall orange colors.

Photo by Bethany Powls

THE BETHEL COLLEGE COLLEGIAN

6 FEATURES

The history of trees on campus ALLISON WEAVER News Editor

Bethel College’s campus is known far and wide for its gorgeous architecture, storied past and its tight knit community ties. However, one thing that can’t be overlooked is its wealth of natural beauty, especially as autumn breezes change green leaves to explosions of red, orange and gold.

Bethel has been blessed with a wide variety of different species of these gentle giants. Jon Piper, current professor of biology and a distinguished chair in plant science, has done intense research and cataloging of Bethel’s tree population, estimates as many as 42 species reside here among the student body.

The science behind these sudden and dramatic changes in the campus foliage resides deep inside the leaves themselves.

Bethel alum of ‘67, and former Biology and Environmental professor Steve Schmidt described the process as being impacted by many factors.

“Light, dark, temperature, water and the biggest factor is when the days begin to shorten. During shorter days, light changing signals to trees that they need to start protecting themselves for winter. At the base of the leaves, an abscission layer of cells forms. The cells in this layer die and

Capri Bisom, junior from Barrington, New Jersey, hugs one of the American Beech trees in front of Haury, displaying the thickness of the trunks.

Photos by Bethany Powls

dry up, causing sugars to get trapped in the leaves. Then, the sun bakes the sugar and makes pigments form. The green chlorophyll fading away reveals the colors behind it; for example, yellow pigment like keratin is always there, but the green covers them up.

When the trees get the signal to stop sending food and using resources for the winter, chlorophyll dies, and the yellows and oranges shine through,” Schmidt said.

Fascinatingly, some trees have been bred specifically for their brilliant fall colors. One example of this is the Autumn Blaze red maple, which Bethel students will recognize as residing by the Krehbiel Science Center, and draws attention as one of the first trees to turn annually.

Other notable species on Bethel’s campus include two American Beech trees, directly in front of Haury’s secondary entrance. Schmidt estimates that, given their size, they were likely planted around the time when Bethel’s campus was first developed in the 1880s. That puts their age at a whopping 140 years old, and they show it. Each of these giants would take three people to encircle them with their arms, and were included in a National Champion Registry several years ago for their size and leafy crown.

Further fascinating varieties include a ginkgo tree near Warkentin Court, and Eastern white pines near the football stadium. The latter are noteworthy for their rarity in the Midwest, and the former for its classification as an endangered species.

Lastly, several of the Bur oaks by the Krehbiel Science Center and the Will Academic Center were planted as “centennial trees” for Bethel’s anniversary. Bur oaks are by far the

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2020 species represented the most on Bethel’s campus, with over 25 of them planted on the grounds.

Due to Kansas’ native prairie habitat, many species of trees were introduced, rather than naturally occurring on the landscape. Schmidt theorized that many breeds were introduced by settlers on the prairie bringing seeds from their home countries. Piper agrees, furthering that one of the oak trees by the Sand Creek trail-head that was started from an acorn that came from “the old country,” a point of fascination for Bethel history buffs.

Around the 1930s, a federal effort named the Prairie States Forestry Project aimed to control soil and wind erosion in response to the Dust Bowl. As a result, along the Sand Creek Trail, a shelter belt was planted along the canal.

This act introduced species such as ceder, pines, Osage orange, Kentucky coffee, and the Siberian elm. The number of species continues to grow on this proud property.

Bethel trees have long since been a focus of students and staff alike. Siobhan Scarry, Associate Professor of English, has long taught an Environmental Writing class for naturally inspired writers. Additionally, Jeni E. Reichenberger, an alum of 2018, did a seminar study on campus flora.

Her seminar, The Woody Landscape of the Bethel College Campus and its Potential Wildlife Benefits, detailed the innumerable resources that trees provide, for both wildlife and the human population of Bethel. Her findings revealed that Bethel has an outstandingly diverse population of trees, even when one excludes the Sand Creek trail in the species count.

In times where one is hard-pressed to find a COVID safe activity, community and campus dwellers can delight in the natural autumnal beauty of Bethel with a walk through Sand Creek Trail. And take solace in knowing that, in a year of such upheaval, the trees don’t change; their comforting cycles carry us through the seasons.

FEATURES 7

Trees in front of the Student Center turn red, orange and yellow, visible to Mojo’s customers as well. Photo by Emily Brandt

An Autumn Blaze red maple displays its beautiful red coloring near Krehbiel Science Center. Photo by Emily Brandt

A maple tree next to Mantz Library shows off its fall orange colors.

Photo by Bethany Powls

8 SPORTS

Thresher volleyball adjusts to challenging season ELIZABETH ALDERFER Staff Writer

Thresher Volleyball has been served many unusual circumstances thus far in their season. For all the sports teams, this fall has brought anxiety from all of the unknowns. However, our team of Thresher women has overcome much adversity and the season is only halfway over.

The team is grateful to have the opportunity to play, as many teams around the nation do not.

“Our season has shown us how to be flexible, adapt and adjust,” Head Coach Stacy Middleton said.

The team has their largest roster in years, with 24 players, and Middleton admires the team working hard through the pandemic to move forward. The team has had many transfers and incoming freshmen in addition to those returning.

“Our team dynamic is really good this year. We get along really well and have great team chemistry. This has always been a strength of the Bethel volleyball team and it’s something we pride ourselves on,” Mia Loganbill, junior from Hesston, said.

COVID-19 has made the volleyball team’s year unique and challenging.

“This year has been difficult,

but it’s not been easy for anyone; so we just have to keep working and stay as healthy as possible,” Middeton said.

Practicing with masks and limiting contact in drills is “normal” this year and the team has responded well to it.

Recently, the team unexpectedly had to complete a two-week quarantine, where they were unable to practice and games were postponed. This period has been tough on the team and will continue to be as

5:00 P.M.

UPCOMING EVENTS

AWAY

at AVILA UNIVERSITY

OCT. 28

3:00 P.M.

HOME

vs. SOUTHWESTERN COLLEGE

OCT. 28

7:00 P.M.

column, Coach Middleton is proud of the strides the team has made to improve.

Additionally, Loganbill and her teammates are confident wins will come with more practice and the gain of consistency. The last six matches have needed to be rescheduled due to COVID-19, but the team is eager to get back on the court.

Keep your eyes open for updates to the volleyball schedule as it continues to change. Everyone is hoping for

a healthy and strong finish to the season. If you get the opportunity to watch these ladies play, go support them in a way safe to you and the other fans. Let’s support these Threshers as they continue to roll on!

The entire Bethel volleyball team poses for a group photo. According to Middleton, this is one of the largest rosters in the past several years. Photo courtesy of Kendall Heibert

VOLLEYBALL OCT. 24

some players will have to undergo the process of lengthy protocols to return to play. However, Loganbill has confidence in her fellow Threshers.

“Everyone else on the team will have to step up and fill in, but I’m sure we can rise to the challenge,” Loganbill said.

As of now, the team has only been able to play six matches due to postponing, cancelling and changing of the schedule. While the matches have not resulted in the Threshers favor in the win

HOME

vs. UNIVERSITY OF ST. MARY

FOOTBALL OCT. 24

1:00 P.M. 11:00 A.M.

OCT. 31

CROSS COUNTRY HOME

OCT. 24 10:15 & 11:00 A.M. AWAY

at OTTAWA UNIVERSITY

NOV. 7

SOCCER

HOME

vs. SOUTHWESTERN COLLEGE

MID-STATES CLASSIC

NOV. 14

TBA

KCAC CHAMPIONSHIPS

AWAY

5:00 & 7:30 P.M.

HOME

vs. OTTAWA UNIVERSITY

NOV. 7

4:30 & 7:00 P.M.

AWAY

at SOUTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY

NOV. 11

6:00 P.M.

at FRIENDS UNIVERSITY

AWAY

Ticket access changes for athletic seasons JESSICA LAROCQUE Sports Editor

COVID-19 has changed a few aspects of athletic events. One of the major changes for community members and athletes’ families is acquiring tickets for all home sporting events.

The process can get a little overwhelming if a course of action is not explained thoroughly.

Athletes receive a code that they use for every sporting event. They are then responsible for going onto the website and entering their code. They can then select one or two tickets.

This process is the same for the faculty and staff of Bethel College. Josh Booth, assistant athletic director and sports information director, weighed in

on the limited number of tickets available to students, faculty and staff.

“We wish it could be more, but to remain consistent across the board and to allow our multiple groups of ticket stakeholders access, this is what we could allot for under our current seating capacity restrictions” said Booth.

If family or faculty and staff would like more tickets, they have to access them through the community ticketing system.

The tickets available here are first come first serve and are not always available.

Current Bethel students who are not involved in the sporting event also have a limited number of available seats. For football games, the first 100 to show up at the gate get access to the game.

Other sports like volleyball are not limited to a specific number of people but when the student section reaches capacity, students are directed somewhere else to sit.

Management has tried to make the games as accessible as possible for those attending and staying at home, while creating a safe atmosphere for Bethel’s guests.

“We have put in social distancing measures at the gym and stadium to allow for fans to be spaced out in their own ‘family-like entities,’ which has helped us maximize as much of the facilities as possible while still keeping safety at a forefront, and providing our student-athletes as close to a normal atmosphere as possible,” said Booth.

A positive aspect of the changes to this process is more accessibility to live-streamed online games. Parents or alumni of Bethel College that have always been unable to make the games, currently have access to live game play. Now almost every game, home or away, is available for online viewing.

Despite agitation towards new procedures, the community has remained safe and allowed for all fans to have access to the games.

“Our athletic events have been well attended thus far by parents, community members, students, faculty and staff, and visiting fans as well. We appreciate everyone following the safety procedures we have put in place,” said Booth.

Teams strategize to stay safe while competing JAYLEN RANDLE Staff Writer

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, so has the fall semester at Bethel College. Students have learned to adjust to the new normal on campus, including wearing masks and social distancing with one another.

Sometimes that has not been enough. In the past few weeks, there have been a number of cancellations of games due to a small outbreak on campus. Our fall athletic teams have done a critical job of following rules and regulations to keep their players safe.

As the fall season has begun, football, soccer, volleyball, tennis, golf and cross country have held the standard by following KCAC guidelines in order to have a season this year. However, due to the outbreak on campus, it has caused each of these teams to miss players due to quarantine.

Coaches on each team have adjusted to the shortage

of players very well. Each team has had to adjust their practice schedules and game strategies, while dealing with postponed games. While teams like football and women’s soccer have not had games for the past two weeks, they have adjusted to not playing by using the extra time at their practices to work on the craft.

Because there is a shortage of players, other players have been called upon to step up, take more reps and become better players.

Coaches have also advocated for their students to use this extra time to focus on academics, school, and reminding them to stay safe and clean during this time.

Other sports like men’s soccer, volleyball, tennis, golf and cross country still plan to continue competing this season.

Their coaches continue to push and prepare them for their gameday competition, while also reminding them to wear their mask and be socially distant at all times.

Bethel College has done more than just advocate for face masks and social distancing here on campus. The college has also been keeping their students

and staff updated consistently with anything happening on campus, even the postponement and cancellation of games and tournaments.

SPORTS 9

The Sideline

JAYDE BLAIN Staff Writer

DANIELA HERRERA WOMEN’S TENNIS What is your favorite thing about fall?

“My favorite thing about fall is to see the trees changing color, and I like how a lot of places in the environment look nice.”

Why did you start playing tennis?

“I started playing tennis because I went to summer camp, and it had tennis. I liked it because it is an independent sport.”

What are your hopes for the upcoming season?

“My hopes for the season are to be one of the best players of the conference. My main hope is to enjoy what I like to do and create good memories with my team and my coaches.”

The women’s soccer team at one of their few games this semester.

Photo by Lindsey Pfannenstiel

10 ENTERTAINMENT

Bethel’s music ensembles to continue rehearsals with safety guidelines ARTHUR MAHRER Staff Writer

Like almost every aspect of campus life, Bethel’s Music Department has had to abide by a more regimented schedule. Because Bethel’s musicians have to adapt to immediate changes in campus status regarding positive cases, it means that there might be major interruptions to the fluidity of ensemble rehearsals, causing setbacks. Despite this, the new measures employed by the musical ensembles to ensure campus safety have also led to innovative practices.

“The steel drum band and the pep band have observed the guidelines of social distancing of 6 feet between players, bell and instrument covers, and wearing masks during rehearsals and performances.

The steel drums , for instance, are set up to allow 6 feet between instruments.” Brad Shores director of extracurricular bands and director for summer programs, said.

The regimented nature of restrictions in this case does not

seem to prevent the capacity of students to learn new things.

“The orange status means that the pep band will not perform at the ball games to keep students safe. The steel drum class pivots to remote learning during yellow and orange statuses. Although the students cannot physically play the steel drums while remote learning is in place, they do learn about the culture of Trinidad, the history of steel drums and some music concepts,” Shores said.

These restrictions do not come without their shortcomings, as it has an impact on the organization of pep band and steel band. The steel drum band and pep band can still effectively play while following social distancing guidelines, but the players have a more difficult time hearing each other’s parts. In addition, two players can no longer share a music stand, so that forces every place to have a stand.

On a general note, the efficiency of Bethel’s musical ensembles almost fully depends on the color-coded status

system adopted by campus.

“When the status is orange there are no rehearsals. A blue and yellow status indicates that we will be in rehearsal. In the choir, that means: two to three days student led sectionals, larger classrooms, socially distance and in singer’s masks.

These masks are laundered after each rehearsal; students are consulted to determine if they consider the decision to rehearse a safe one for all their colleagues. Each singer determines their level of safety and they have the option of opting out of rehearsals with advance notice. Since Open Road and Woven are student led they will determine whether the color-coded status is safe for conducting rehearsals,” William Eash, professor of music and director of choral activities, said.

It is safe to assess that just like all the departments entrusted with Bethel’s creative expression, the music department is smoothly adapting to regulations.

The nine members of Woven meet weekly to rehearse music and enjoy singing together.

Open Road also meets quickly to rehearse.

Photo courtesy of Annie Carlson

Halloween made available for students to enjoy safely

MASON WILKINS Staff Writer

Looking for something to do during these fall nights? Want to make a memory out of this time we have despite social distancing?

Check out these local events available for students to attend safely.

First, we have the Haunted Trail hosted by SAC on Halloween night. This is a fun event that functions in the same way that a haunted house does, except it will be outdoors. Bethel is currently working to make sure that this even follows campus safety guidelines and organizers are in the process of sending out recruitment emails for volunteers.

Next, the company Simplified Entertainment hosts a Mobile Haunted House that they spend an entire year crafting for prime haunt experience. During pandemic times, they have been able to set up a haunted house experience that is socially distant. This can be something that students can take

a look at if they want to plan an event. However, make sure to book an event prior to Halloween, as this particular company is receiving a lot of business.

The Field of Screams is another local Halloween attraction in Maize. Like many local haunted houses, the Field of Screams has taken measures to ensure customer safety.

Lastly, the Student Activities Council has other Halloween themed events coming up that fit within social distancing guidelines.

While events remain extremely limited, SAC is hosting a movie night on October 23 and a Pumpkin Painting Night on October 28.

If you need more ideas, hosting a Halloween photo-shoot in costume with your friends can be a safe option. Additionally, there are a variety of Halloween movies that can be purchased through streaming sites like Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, and others.

Grab some seasonal candy and enjoy Halloween!

Members of the Bethel College Cross Country team attended the Field of Screams as a group and enjoyed a few scares during the course of the evening. Photo courtesy of Stephany Meyer

ENTERTAINMENT 11

Campus makes plans for traditional celebrations

GRACE LUMPKINS Staff Writer

As the holiday season approaches, students are likely questioning the regular occurrence of traditional Bethel celebrations. With the uncertainty of the college switching color status and the fall schedule looking a little different this year, annual events might not look the same as they have in the past. The Student Activities Council (SAC) puts on a lot of these traditional holiday events.

For October, SAC is having a movie night on the 23rd at 8 p.m. On Halloween night, there will be a haunted house and trail, including a Halloween costume contest for students to participate in. All of these events will occur from 8-11 p.m.

As entertainment for the brief time on campus after

Thanksgiving, there is usually a week of planned events, traditionally called “winter week.” These events often included Coco and Canvas Paint Night, Milk and Cookies, Craft Night, Build-a-Bear, and a Dodgeball Tournament.

Due to schedule changes and the fact that most students will leave campus on November 20th for winter break, there will be no Christmas Gala this year and SAC is in the process of brainstorming ideas for virtual events for students to participate in. The plan is to incorporate student activity while campus is participating in virtual learning during the month of December.

A big holiday tradition for Bethel College is the annual Lighting of the Green. During this event, community members, students on campus, future students, and staff are invited

to gather around the Green. It is during this event that campus turns off every light around the Green to darken it enough for a circle of candlelight to be seen from above.

A musical ensemble leads a traditional Christmas hymn sing and participants in the circle sing along. In the past few years, this has been led by Open Road and Woven, the on-campus a capella groups.

One person lights their candle and begins to pass fire around the circle until every candle it lit. There is prayer and a moment in which student chaplains offer devotions ore reflections.

Afterward, the attendees are invited to have cookies and dessert food in the Caf, as served by the Bethel College Parents’ Association.

The Lighting of the Green is traditionally organized by

Students gather around the Green with candles to sing hymns during Lighting of the Green. Photo by Justice Flint

THE

COLLEGIAN

The Bethel College Collegian is a student-run newspaper published bi-weekly during the fall and spring semesters. The Collegian is funded by advertisement revenue and student fees. The Collegian will be digitally available to Bethel faculty, staff, students and community members for the 2020-2021 academic year. Feedback may be sent to:

collegian@bethelks.edu The Collegian, Bethel College, North Newton, KS, 67117

Students take part in the annual Gala banquet, served by the faculty and staff in Memorial Hall. Photo by Justice Flint

the Campus Pastor; this year, the Campus Pastor is Michael Unruh. He was planning to have the Lighting of the Green event this year on December 13, but the date is subject to change, in order that the event can occur when students are on campus.

He has yet to decide what to do for the event, but will be working on it over the next several weeks.

“There are pros and cons to keeping the date and obviously risks with gathering a large group together as usual,” Unruh said.

Because this has been such an unconventional year for events and activities, both SAC and Unruh are dealing with the changeability of the status of the campus in addition to

recent schedule changes that incorporate breaks during these annual celebrations. There is a lot of planning that needs to be done before anything final is decided. Regardless, Bethel plans to celebrate the holiday season and the end of the semester in whatever format it is able to.

Open Road and Woven lead a hymn sing at the Georz House. Photo by Justice Flint

STAFF

BETHANY POWLS

ALLISON WEAVER

NATHAN GARBER

CHRISTINE CROUSE-DICK

JADIN KALTENBACH

CHARLOTTE EHRMANN

KRISTA LOOMIS

SCHYLER ENTZ

MIKINZIE HARKINS

CAPRI STEVENSON-BISOM

JESSICA LAROCQUE

EMILY BRANDT

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

FACULTY ADVISOR

BUSINESS MANAGER

DESIGN/LAYOUT EDITOR

NEWS EDITOR

OPINION EDITOR

FEATURES EDITOR SPORTS EDITOR

ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR COPY EDITOR

WEB/SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR PHOTO EDITOR

Left to Right - Vivi Rodriguez - Strawberry Shortcake, Claira Janssen - a cheerleader, Michael Unruh - Michelangelo (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles), Emily Brandt - a princess fairy ballerina, Jennifer Chappell-Deckert - a muddy cowgirl, Kendra Gooden - an angel, Jeff Kauffman - a giraffe, Kendall Hiebert - Route 66. For a full gallery of photos, follow The Bethel Collegian on Facebook , Instagram, or Twitter. Courtesy photos

Who’s Who: Guess which childhood photo matches with a current Bethel student or faculty member THE BETHEL COLLEGE COLLEGIAN

PHOTO FEATURE 12