JAPANESE BREAKFAST PERFORMS AT PROCHNOW PAGE 16 THE LUMBER JACK NOV. 11, 2021 – NOV. 17 2021
Online at JackCentral.org
From the Editor
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nfortunately, the only way to start this letter is through confusion and convolution. As a senior, it’s funny to reminisce on the last few years of college. I’ve been through so much happiness and sadness — almost more in-betweens — and truly changed with experience. Life is filled with unpredictability, but I think I’ve learned through sheer quantity and stunning quality. If anything, contemplating the past, considering the present and thinking about the future is funny, because I’m delighted and daunted. There’s long-winded stories and lengthy takeaways to share, absolutely, but even better is this collective experience showing in a clear example. The best consensus I’ve reached is the holiday season. I adore Christmas lights, and I appreciate the chance to find presents for those I love, but TREVOR that’s about it. As a kid, I remember decorating while snow fell and school was out. In college, SKEEN I recall disappearing to Phoenix — professional basketball and hot tubs were beckoning — and COPY CHIEF decidedly reappearing, relaxed and ready to celebrate. There’s lots of memories, but one factor remains: December. Almost exactly two years ago, I wrote my first Letter from the Editor. It was cheesy and cliche, but more than anything, I wanted to encourage people to give life their best — including myself. “Do it: Book your plane ticket, apply for your dream job and tell your true love exactly how you feel. Maybe fantasy can become reality, but only if you try. Coming from someone who’s loved purely, lost painfully and lived authentically, I encourage you to apply my advice,” I wrote. Shortly thereafter, the world fell apart. Everyone’s tired of talking about the disease, but it did change everything. For me, the pandemic afforded new friends, advanced old relationships and added meaning to seeing, smiling and spending quality time with those we care about. But in 2020 — our first COVID-19 Christmas — I still celebrated in December. During my second semester of college, while taking CST 111: Fundamentals of Public Speaking, I wrote a speech on heartbreak in my life. In hindsight, I felt overemotional and embarrassed for sharing such details, and even deleted the recording from my computer. But the outline remains, and it references a TedTalk from Emma Gibbs: “In the end, only three things matter: How much you loved, how gently you lived and how gracefully you let go of things not meant for you.” Somehow, it still embarasses me that I wrote a speech about my ex-girlfriend, shared it with a class and (almost) forgot about all of it. But thankfully, the awkwardness remains — that feeling changed me like everything else. This is where it comes full circle, hopefully. I flew to San Francisco during the pandemic, and to all of you wonderful people asking the right question, I was fully vaccinated and finally traveling. The trip was good, but more important was the direct message I sent at the airport while waiting to go home. March 29, 3:38 p.m.: “hey! … I just wanted to say that you seem pretty great, and … maybe I’ll see you around phoenix again eventually!” Last weekend, I was in Phoenix late on a Sunday evening — hint, hint. I wanted to spend another night with my girlfriend, so we stopped by the mall, headed to Target and spent $200. For the first time, I have a Christmas memory in November. Her apartment looks great. Thank you for reading.
THE LUMBERJACK
VOL. 112 ISSUE 12
Managing Editor Camille Sipple
Copy Chief Trevor Skeen
Faculty Adviser David Harpster
Print Chief Ash Lohmann
Director of Digital Content and Social Media Emily Gerdes
Media Innovation Center Editorial Board
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Features Editor Olivia Charlson
Asst. News Editor Tess Stafford Op-Ed Editor Kylie Soto
Asst. Features Editor Lauren Anderson Culture Editor Katelyn Rodriguez
Asst. Op-Ed Editor Marley Green
Asst. Culture Editor Haylee Emch
Sports Editor Brenden Martin Asst. Sports Editor Will Hopkins Sports Adviser Rory Faust Director of Photography MacKenzie Brower
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Editor-in-Chief Nathan Manni
News Editor Mark Fabery
Lumberjacks halt Hornets win streak, win 3-0
Asst. Dir. of Photography Brian Burke Director of Illustration Diana Ortega Director of Multimedia Shawn Patti
On the cover Michelle Zauner of the band Japanese Breakfast sings “Posing in Bondage” in Prochnow Auditorium during the band’s concert, Nov. 5. Madison Easton | The Lumberjack
Corrections & Clarifications The Lumberjack is committed to factual correctness and accuracy. If you find an error in our publication, please email Nathan Manni at nem233@ nau.edu.
PoliceBeat Nov. 1 At 8:01 a.m., a Humphreys Office Building staff member reported a broken window and an unknown subject inside the building. NAUPD responded, contacted the subject and cited them for trespassing. At 1:51 p.m., a McConnell Hall RA reported a broken exit sign. NAUPD responded and took a report. At 6:36 p.m., a student reported a traffic collision with injuries in front of the Honors College. NAUPD, Flagstaff Fire Department (FFD) and Guardian Medical Transport (GMT) responded, and one student was transported to Flagstaff Medical Center (FMC) for treatment. One subject was issued a citation for failure to yield.
compiled by Mark fabery
At 9:08 p.m., a Campus Heights resident requested a welfare check. NAUPD responded, found the student in good health and connected them with Terros Health.
Nov. 6 At 11:49 a.m., a Gammage building staff member reported suspicious activity. NAUPD responded, and a group of students was educated about damaging the At 11:59 p.m., a student landscape. reported loud music coming from a vehicle outside SkyView. At 7 p.m., NAUPD NAUPD responded, contacted received a supervisory alarm two students and told them to for Gillenwater Hall. An turn the music down. officer responded, searched the area and found the alarm was Nov. 4 caused by shower steam. At 10:27 a.m., a staff member requested a welfare At 10:32 p.m., an Allen check on a nonstudent near the Hall RA reported a broken exit Ponderosa building. NAUPD sign. NAUPD responded and responded, but the nonstudent took a report. was gone upon officer arrival. Nov. 7 At 3:45 p.m., a Science At 12:38 a.m., a student and Health building staff reported intoxicated students member reported a student in Wilson Hall. NAUPD experiencing a seizure. responded, and three students NAUPD, FFD and GMT and one nonstudent were responded, and the student cited and released for minor in was transported to FMC. consumption of alcohol.
Nov. 2 At 3:29 p.m., a staff member reported someone hit a vehicle and fled the scene in At 8:55 p.m., NAUPD lot 2B. An officer responded dispatch received an and took a report. anonymous online report of someone disturbing the peace At 6:47 p.m., an at McKay Village. An officer officer reported arresting a responded, but no criminal nonstudent off campus for an activity was witnessed. active warrant. The nonstudent was booked into Coconino Nov. 5 County Detention Facility. At 3:25 a.m., an Allen Hall resident reported a At 7:16 p.m., a student broken whiteboard. NAUPD reported a Starship delivery responded, and one student robot stuck in the intersection was cited and released for false of East Pine Knoll Drive and reporting to law enforcement. South Huffer Lane. NAUPD responded, but could not At 9:56 a.m., a McConnell locate the robot. Hall RA reported a broken exit sign. NAUPD responded and Nov. 3 took a report. At 11:37 a.m., a Hilltop Townhomes resident reported At 11:53 p.m., an officer threats made over text. An reported checking on three officer responded and took a subjects near the intersection report. of South San Francisco Street and West Franklin Avenue. Two students were cited and released for minor in consumption of alcohol.
At 5:30 a.m., a Wilson Hall resident requested a welfare check on another resident. NAUPD responded and deferred the student for minor in consumption of alcohol. At 6:35 p.m., a RHD reported a vehicle in a reserved parking spot in lot 33. NAUPD responded and contacted the owner, who moved the vehicle.
Flagstaff’s Visitor Center to have four new electric vehicle charging stations Sophia Swainson
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n Nov. 9, Flagstaff City Council approved the Arizona Public Service (APS) Level Two Electric Vehicle Charging pilot agreement after ensuring it will adhere to the city’s sustainability goals. Prior to this discussion, freshman Nicole Whitten spoke during the public participation portion asking councilmembers to endorse the As Nearly Free As Possible Act. Under the act, university tuition rates will be capped and Arizona will be required to pay at least 50% of resident undergraduate students’ university tuition and fees. Whitten said the goal of the act is to hold Arizona accountable to investing in education and make college accessible. “We can break the cycle of poverty among kids in foster care and lower income families as a whole,” Whitten said. “This is where it starts.” Later in the meeting, councilmembers discussed the approval of the APS agreement. As part of phase two of APS’ Take Charge AZ program, the agreement proposes the installation of four electric vehicle charging stations (EVCS) at the Flagstaff Visitor Center. The city participated in phase one of the program in June 2020, partnering with the electricity company to install four EVCS at City Hall. The goal of APS’ program is to offer free EVCS to government agencies. However, the stations are also available for use to the public. By offering free electricity, the program aims to incentivize use of the stations and encourage use of electric vehicles. During discussion of the approval, councilmember Jim McCarthy raised concerns over economic sustainability. Continue reading at jackcentral.org
At 10:22 p.m., a University Union staff member reported a subject refusing to leave the area, who required medical attention after collapsing. NAUPD, FFD and GMT responded, and the student refused medical transport. An officer gave the nonstudent a public assist ride to a shelter.
NOV. 11 - NOV. 17, 2021 | THE LUMBERJACK
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‘Rust’ investigation involves NAU graduate mark fabery
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reative media and film graduate Hannah GutierrezReed has been at the center of the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s investigation into the fatal shooting of “Rust” cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. Gutierrez-Reed was named in a Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office search warrant affidavit as the armorer on set in rural New Mexico when actor Alec Baldwin was given a prop gun he believed was safe. Baldwin later discharged the gun, resulting in the death of 42-year-old Hutchins and injuring 48-year-old director Joel Souza. No charges have been filed, but the investigation is ongoing. During an Oct. 27 press conference, Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza, who was joined by District Attorney Mary Carmack-Altwies, said he believes there was complacency on the set, along with safety issues that need to be addressed by the film industry. Moreover, Carmack-Altwies said her office is ready to help as the sheriff’s office continues to investigate Hutchins’ death. “We are assisting the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office and have offered our full support to them,” Carmack-Altweis said. “At this time, we do not know if charges will be filed. We will look into all facts and evidence of the case with great discretion and have further information at a later time. Our thoughts are with all affected by this tragedy.” Since the shooting, multiple sources on the “Rust” set have insisted this fatal accident was the result of failures from top to bottom, which stemmed from cost-cutting measures along with the production’s already-low budget, according to The Daily Beast. Further concerns were raised about Gutierrez-Reed on the set of her last movie, “The Old Way,” an upcoming Nicolas Cage film. The Daily Beast article stated filming was briefly stopped after she allegedly gave a gun to an 11-year-old actress without checking it properly. However, according to a statement from Rust Movie Productions LLC — the production company in charge of filming — it was not aware of any “complaints concerning weapon or prop safety on set.” The company also noted it will conduct an internal review and cooperate with law enforcement. During an interview with the “Voices of the West” podcast in September, Gutierrez-Reed said Rust was only the second time she had worked as lead armorer on a film set. The recent NAU alumna also discussed pursuing a degree in creative media and film with the hope of working with cameras, before changing paths due to her father. “I originally had planned on working with cameras, and I really liked lighting too, but I kinda just tried it with dad one time, and I noticed I had a really natural knack for it,” GutierrezReed said. “Growing up around guns my whole life, I have come to realize that this is a pretty sweet gig.” Her father, Thell Reed, is a well-known Hollywood armorer whose credits include 1997’s “L.A. Confidential’’ and 2006’s “Miami Vice.” Reed was also a quick draw expert on Quentin Tarantino’s 2012 film, “Django Unchained.” Gutierrez-Reed credited her dad for providing her with the resources and guidance
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to pursue a career in film production as an armorer. Additionally, she said in the podcast that Reed’s extensive Hollywood resume took her from being a novice to head armorer on the set for “Rust.” “Dad has been teaching me about guns ever since I was 16, but I really got into the stuff in the last couple of years,” GutierrezReed said. “He took me from being completely green and taught me everything that I know so far, and I’m still learning, but yeah my dad has taught me a lot of things. I also caught on by myself through watching him do things and learning how firearms work.” Kurt Lancaster, NAU creative media and film professor, would not discuss Guttierez-Reed directly. However, Lancaster said the program provides a space for students to tell their own “distinctive, idiosyncratic and regional” stories instead of falling into tired Hollywood tropes. He added that UTV Studios is where students receive training and learn about the importance of crew safety on a variety of production sets. “We have UTV Studios, which is essentially a club for credit, and that is a studio environment where students get proper training in set etiquette, and training in what it’s like to work on a film set,” Lancaster said. “We don’t, however, teach or cover anything about working as an armorer. Anytime that there is a prop needed on set that is a weapon, students usually bring in a replica or a toy, something like that.”
NAU graduate Hannah Guttierrez-Reed has been involved in the investigation into the “Rust” shooting that left cinematographer Halyna Hutchins dead. Courtesy of Associated Press
“Anytime that there is a prop needed on set that is a weapon, students usually bring in a replica or a toy, something like that” –Professor, Creative Media and Film Kurt Lancaster Moreover, Lancaster stressed the significance of the program’s upper-division production classes, and added students and faculty involved with UTV Studios consistently discuss the importance of maximizing safety on set, specifically when it comes to hanging lights and placing certain equipment. Many production members on set the day of Hutchins’ death said Gutierrez-Reed failed to implement proper safety procedures and was not qualified to work both Baldwin’s “Rust” and Cage’s “The Old Way.” In an Oct. 24 Facebook post, “Rust” chief electrician Serge Svetnoy wrote he was standing next to Hutchins and Souza when Baldwin discharged the weapon, ultimately striking Hutchins. Additionally, Svetnoy called attention to the mismanagement of firearms on set and expressed concern over Gutierrez-Reed’s experience as a young armorer. “There is no way a 24-year-old woman can be a professional with armory; there is no way that her more-or-less the same-aged friend from school, neighborhood, Instagram or God knows where else can be a professional in this field,” Svetnoy wrote. “To save a dime sometimes, you hire people who are not fully qualified for the complicated and dangerous job, and you risk the lives of the other people who are close and your lives as well. I understand that you always fight for the budget, but you cannot allow this to happen. There should always be at least one professional in each department who knows the job.” In a statement responding to these claims, Guttierez-Reed’s lawyer, Jason Bowles, said his client’s top priority on set was the safety and well-being of others. Considering Gutierrez-Reed was hired to work two positions, he said she was denied ample prep time and was left scrambling to do her job. “Hannah was hired on two positions on this film, which made it extremely difficult to focus on her job as an armorer,” Bowles said. “She fought for training, days to maintain weapons and proper time to prepare for gunfire, but ultimately was overruled by production and her department. The whole production set became unsafe due to various factors, including lack of safety meetings. This was not the fault of Hannah.” Lancaster said industry members need to discuss the use of prop guns on sets, as there are people who should be alive, but are not, due to the dangers surrounding their use. He also described how it would be easier, and more cost-efficient, if productions used a realistic gun without any firing capabilities, while adding a flash and smoke through special effects to achieve the same goal during post-production.
NEWS
Marissa Abreu
U
nder the Prescribed Fire Training Exchanges program (TREX), fire managers from nine agencies convened in northern Arizona from Oct. 25 to Nov. 7 to learn about prescribed fire practices they can implement in their own communities. The program provided an opportunity for firefighters to learn about fire and land management, the wildland urban interface, smoke management and more, according to a news release by the city of Flagstaff. Flagstaff Fire Department (FFD), along with Summit Fire and Medical District, hosted the event, which was sponsored by the International Association of Fire Chiefs and the Fire Learning Network. The news release described TREX as a hands-on learning experience that can build local capacity for fire management, while also granting a comprehensive view for fire practitioners. Flagstaff forest health supervisor Neil Chapman told the Arizona Daily Sun Flagstaff was a great location to host such a program. FFD has a wildlands fire division and experience reducing wildfire risk, including prescribed burns. Representatives from Arizona, Colorado, Nevada and South Dakota attended the program to learn more about keeping the public safe as communities grow and move into densely forested areas. The training exchange was designed to help fire departments handle wildland fires and create fire-resistant communities. The TREX program took place in various locations: Rogers Lake, Observatory Mesa and United States Naval Observatory among them. According to Conservation Gateway, the program’s focus was to support the spread of a collaborative burning model that will not only serve fire departments, but also local homeowners, contractors and tribes. Furthermore, it was designed to help maximize possibilities for training, outreach and treatment. Chapman went to Observatory Mesa with other participants for burning operations on Nov. 4. He and the other participants focused on two areas, Chapman explained: Burning and learning. “We’re developing skills for prescribed burning, from implementing our burns, working on the planning of our burns [and] monitoring the burns after completing the operations,”
Chapman said. Additionally, Chapman said he, the other participants and some community members learned about the process of burning fallen pine needles, small trees and other debris to decrease the speed of wildfires. The group was also taught about fire ecology and forest management history. Moreover, they went to Grand Canyon National Park to study cultural resource protection and burning practices. Randy Karrer, fire chief of Golder Ranch Fire District (GRFD) in Tucson, expressed similar views to Chapman. Karrer said GRFD participants gained valuable knowledge in preparing for wildfire events, and programs like TREX can also help communities in saving people and property through planning. “They will develop preplans and identify target areas to mitigate,” Karrer said. “This will allow GRFD to be better prepared for fastmoving wildland fires.” In Flagstaff, wildland firefighting is not a new concept. The city has endured several wildfires over the last few years, including the 2019 Museum Fire and 2021 Rafael Fire. Modern mitigation practices must be updated to match the strength and intensity of today’s wildfires, C h a p m a n
“So, it’s both training for our out-of-area folks and building capacity for our local opportunities.” – Flagstaff forest health supervisor Neil Chapman explained. He said the long-term goal of the program is to support workforce development and neutralize the negative effects of wildfires. “So, it’s both training for our out-ofarea folks and building capacity for our local opportunities,” Chapman said. Additionally, Karrer said GRFD wants to create an urban interface program that can be shared with local, state and federal partners. Programs similar to TREX can support other fire mitigation training. According to Conservation Gateway, TREX programs work at a local level, but also assist in nationwide coaching to improve prescribed burn training through the TREX Coaches Network. Chapman said he thought Flagstaff would benefit from hosting a prescribed burn program, along with GRFD and other fire departments that can advance because of it. This materialized after Chapman attended training exchanges in New Mexico and Iowa and decided to host one in Flagstaff.
Karrer said the program is valuable, and the training it provided will have a positive impact on GRFD, similar to FFD. However, Karrer was not the only one who benefited from the TREX program. Among the participants was Brian Faith, wildland coordinator of Grand Lake Fire Department, a Colorado-based agency that was invited to join the training program. Faith said Colorado has the same concerns as Flagstaff: Communities located near forests with large foundations that are threatened by wildfires. He planned to bring management strategies and Ponderosa reforestation initiatives back to Colorado. He also said he saw how Flagstaff handled the Rafael and Museum wildfires, as well as the flooding that recently happened, and wanted to use those mitigation efforts in his county. Much like Karrer, Faith said it is important for fire departments and personnel to incorporate program teachings while defending communities from the threat of wildfires. “The training teaches us to protect communities from wildfire threats, as well as [explaining] the proper use of fire as a tool to manage our forests on an ecological side and to manage our intensities on a wildfire coming into our prescribed fire units,” Faith said. Faith explained if wildfire intensity were to decrease, it would give firefighters a safer ground to contain the fire. He said trainees learned immensely from emergency management officers and other agencies by exchanging strategies for wildfire solutions through prescribed fires, smoke management and different techniques. Chapman said he is thankful for the people who participated and supported the program — firefighters and community members alike — and for partners such as the Nature Conservancy. More information on TREX can be found at the Conservation Gateway website.
Illustration By Christian Ayala
NOV. 11 - NOV. 17, 2021 | THE LUMBERJACK
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NEWS
Forest Service proposes mass transit expansion
Tourists struggle to find parking at the Cathedral Rock Trailhead, as even the overflow parking lot there cannot contain the high volume of patrons, Oct. 31. Owen Sexton | The Lumberjack
Alison Crane
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oconino National Forest (CNF) staff have proposed a sweeping change to how visitors will be able to access five of its most popular trailheads in the Red Rock Ranger District. The proposed addition of shuttles — running 10 hours per day from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. with 13 runs daily — comes alongside a larger transportation master plan (TMP) initiative from the city of Sedona to expand and improve transit within city limits and the nearby village of Oak Creek. CNF’s plan will affect the trailheads at Cathedral Rock, Dry Creek, Little Horse, Mescal and Soldier Pass. According to KAFF News, this plan was proposed to alleviate overcrowding — an increasing complaint among visitors and residents. Oftentimes, parking congestion forces many to park in neighborhoods and walk long distances to their destinations, which, in turn, crowds those who call Sedona home. Instead of walking to approved trailheads, some choose to make their own paths. However, the National Parks Service labels trails for a reason: To allow visitors to enjoy nature without disrupting it. The agency provides different levels of difficulty for less experienced hikers; therefore, ignoring official trails can be as dangerous to the individual as it is damaging to the environment. Mark Goshorn, special use permit administrator for Red Rock Ranger District said these hybrid shuttles will also cut greenhouse gas emissions in the areas they are used. “The intent of this project is to encourage alternative
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transportation to our trailheads via hiking or nonmotorized bikes along our established trails, or [by] utilizing the shuttle buses,” Goshorn said. “Trailhead transit would also reduce the number of vehicles that are sitting at idle or circling around a trailhead parking lot waiting for an open parking spot, further lowering the carbon footprint.” For the Dry Creek, Little Horse and Mescal trailheads, shuttles will arrive and depart alongside visitors traveling in cars, or through other forms of transportation. However, visitors can only access Cathedral Rock and Soldier Pass aboard city shuttles or nonmotorized methods, such as biking or hiking, during hours of operation. Before and after the shuttles are running, vehicles will be allowed to enter regardless of time. Additionally, cars that arrive prior to shuttles are permitted to leave after they start. That said, not all Sedona residents are excited about this proposal. Red Rock News managing editor Christopher Fox Graham wrote an editorial about this issue — which involved vocally criticizing both the TMP and the Red Rock transit expansion. In particular, Graham expressed frustration at the city’s willingness to invest so much in a service that primarily benefits tourists. “Tourists pay 77% of Sedona’s sales taxes, but the optics among residents will be that tourists are reaping 100% of the benefits,” Graham said. “The bus system should target residents first, get us on board first — both metaphorically and literally — then expand service to tourists. The current plan does so in reverse, making it both illogical and financially wasteful.” Additionally, this is not the first time Sedona has attempted to expand its mass transit system with tourists in mind, Graham
said. The Sedona RoadRunner was designed as a tourist circulator and an easy way for visitors to access some of Sedona’s most famous locales. It was, however, never truly accepted by residents, according to an article from Red Rock News from the period RoadRunner was active. Ultimately, the Sedona RoadRunner was taken off the roads in 2011 due to its high cost and low usage. This episode from Sedona’s past is not the only reason Graham and others are jaded toward the idea of a transit expansion. Most tourists do not even consider using public transit while in Sedona, he explained. Once they have taken the time to drive, whether in personal vehicles or rental cars, it makes sense for them to continue using such transportation for the duration of their trip. Due to this, Graham and like-minded residents are against another tourist circulator. “The current model will lead to a collapse, like the Sedona Roadrunner in 2011, unless there is a major redirection to focus on residents first,” Graham said. “This current council may be sold on its success, but in future elections, more skeptical and critical candidates could get elected, running the risk of ending a program deemed wasteful or ineffective.” If the Red Rock transit expansion is approved, development will proceed over the course of spring 2021. Presently, CNF staff are working to conduct research and consider public opinion surrounding this mass transit expansion. Those with questions, comments or concerns are encouraged to voice their opinions by sending an email to comments-southwestern-coconinoredrock@usda.gov with “Trailhead Transit” in the subject line.
COMIC SPOT
NOV. 11- NOV. 17, 2021 | THE LUMBERJACK
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OPINION-EDITORIAL
Thank Manchin and Sinema for Earth's demise Jessie McCann
It's beginning to look too much like Christmas
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alloween just passed, and yet Christmas marketing already surrounds everyone. Did everyone forget about Thanksgiving? Retailers were even putting Christmas decorations and signage on display weeks before Oct. 31. On one hand, there is Halloween: Heavily celebrated, lots of hype and LISA great marketability for businesses. Then, HALL there is Thanksgiving, which tends to be completely overlooked and forgotten on OP-ED WRITER social media and by retailers. While there is a negative connotation associated with Thanksgiving — and rightfully so — there are still many people who celebrate the holiday. Christmas is one of the busiest times for retailers and typically when they make the most money. Companies’ tendency to start advertising early, sometimes months in advance, is known as the “Christmas creep.” Outlets want to extend this money-making period to gain massive profits by the end of the year. Competition with other retailers also comes into play. Each store wants to ensure customers know they have the best prices. The goal is to allow consumers to compare prices between stores and make purchases sooner. In the time of COVID-19, when crowds are extremely intimidating to some, getting shopping done sooner is their best bet. Companies want customers to know they have exactly what is needed. While understandable, it's extremely annoying. It’s ridiculous to go into enormous corporate stores here in Flagstaff, like Hobby Lobby, Michaels or Target, less than two weeks before the holiday and not be able to find a Halloween section. Walmart dedicated about three aisles to Halloween this year — complete with underwhelming costumes and decorations. This measly selection created an assumption that every kid in this small town was going to be dressed the same come Oct. 31. Thank goodness for online shopping. On social media, every ad is geared toward Christmas. Old Navy, Lego, Etsy and others have already released advertising campaigns. Christmas was the top trending topic on Twitter on Nov. 1. This was partly thanks to Mariah Carey, the unofficial queen of Christmas, as she posted a TikTok that went viral. As Carey literally smashed pumpkins set to her iconic holiday song, "All I Want for Christmas Is You," she sent audiences screaming for Christmas. It’s the same scenario — she makes tons of money during the holidays, so she is eager for the season. Everyone wants to capitalize on the holidays, but most fail to remember that for the typical person, this is one of the most stressful times of the year.
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F
or months, the United States government has been pushing for climate change initiatives. The proposed $3.5 trillion spending plan has gone through weeks of deliberation, with no end, all due to disapproval from U.S. Sens. Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ). As stated in his campaign promises, President Biden’s Build Back Better plan aims to develop clean energy technology and deliver tax credits to reduce costs for middle-class families shifting to clean energy. It would also provide financial support for other economic issues middle-class citizens face. Contrary to the Democratic Party majority support, these senators continue to openly criticize the social spending plan. Manchin even went as far to call the plan “fiscal insanity.” The irony is palpable, as enacting this bill would prevent the senate from suffering major fiscal consequences in the future. As reported by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association, the U.S. has been hit with 308 environmental
disasters that have cost over $1 billion in damages since 1980. With the climate crisis nearly at the point of no return, this bill needs full support, and it would be senseless not to approve. Manchin’s own West Virginia is suffering from a larger number of heat wave days, in comparison to other states, putting residents at major risk for heat-induced illness or death. With his legislative track record, it is clear that his priorities are not in alignment with climate change action. The fact that Manchin and Sinema fall under the guise of being Democrats — when actually, their ideals do not align with the party whatsoever — causes this discrepancy in the Democratic consensus. In fact, neither one of them share much in common. One is a 74-year-old man who revels in publicity and press attention, while the other is a 45-year-old woman who shows no interest in speaking to the press. Matt Bennett, executive vice president for public affairs of Third Wa y,
a centrist democratic group, affirmed, "the vast majority of everybody is on board, and we've got a guy from one of the Trump-iest states in the country, who is trying to represent his people, and we have a very idiosyncratic other senator. It’s just a lot to balance." Even as House leaders and progressives push for the bill’s enactment, there is extreme disagreement over the proposed spending package. Originally set at a $3.5 trillion investment, debate between the House and Senate caused the amount in question to decrease to $1.75 trillion. Having finally reached a compromise last week, Sinema expressed support for the bill’s policies. However, Manchin's lack of support has not budged. Instead, he demanded a strategic pause in deliberation of the bill. As quoted in an MSNBC interview, Manchin said Democrats should “slow down and wait and see if inflation is transitory.” With an impending deadline for the allocation of federal government spending set for Dec. 3, there is no time to stall on this bill’s future. The future of climate change policy is ultimately in their hands, and any way it wavers could have a drastic effect on the world.
Illustration By Diana Ortega
OPINION-EDITORIAL
The archaic ACT only aids the privileged Marley Green
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ne afternoon in high school, a good friend of mine sent a message to the group chat. It read, “I got a 34 on the ACT!” My other friends and I congratulated him; this high of a score meant he would be a shoe-in for acceptance at his dream college. “It only took 10 tries,” my friend typed again, leaving all of us shocked. Ten ACT attempts seemed crazy to think about. None of us could imagine sitting in a high school cafeteria for four hours to take a mind-numbing exam more than once or twice, let alone 10 times. More surprising than the thought of sitting for the test 10 times, however, was the thought of paying for them. The year I graduated high school, the ACT fee was $52 without the essay portion and $68 with it. This meant my friend’s family paid somewhere between $520 and $680 for him to sit for all 10 exams. This was not including expenses to physically get to the exams, which could be far away, or for any tutoring services my friend may have utilized. Upon realizing this, my other friends and I were in awe — none of our parents would have ever paid that much for us to take it that many times. My friend’s score helped him do exactly what he had hoped; he now studies at his top choice university. I’m thrilled for him, but I can’t help but think of all the other opportunities he must have taken advantage of up to that point that most of my friends couldn’t. It’s one of millions of examples of how standardized tests are archaic and put less privileged students at a disadvantage when it comes to college admissions. For years, research has shown there is a correlation between standardized test scores and economic status. Standardized tests don’t measure hard work or talent — they measure access to resources. There are a few likely reasons for the score gap between students of different socioeconomic backgrounds. The biggest is access to resources; wealthier parents are able to afford tutoring services, especially to prepare for the SAT or ACT. They can pay for their children to have more attempts at getting their target score, like my high school friend. Statistically, low-income students are more likely to be People of Color due to the racial wage gap, as well as historical patterns of segregation, which still affect the neighborhoods Black students grow up in today. Low-income students and students of color apply to universities with a significant disadvantage. More likely than not, they did not have a college application coach assist them with their application, nor a tutor to give them ACT prep questions. “Standardized tests have become the most effective racist weapon ever devised to objectively degrade Black and Brown minds and legally exclude their bodies from prestigious schools,” Ibram X. Kendi, author of "How to Be an Antiracist," said in a public statement last year. It’s true that fee waivers are available, but standardized tests don’t only put low-income students at a disadvantage because of
the cost and access to test preparation resources. School funding is at play as well. Students from wealthier families tend to live in neighborhoods with more expensive real estate and higher property taxes. Considering property taxes are the primary source of funding for public schools, those in wealthier neighborhoods have more assets. More funding means a wider variety of classes and standardized test preparation services. For example, schools are more likely to be able to pay for each sophomore to take the practice SAT, so they have an idea of what to expect when they sit for the exam. The public school system doesn’t help everyone succeed, only those who already have the building blocks. A simple fix for this problem is to give standardized tests much less weight on college admissions. I’m not supporting doing away with them completely; rather, universities should more heavily consider other factors: GPA, classes taken, extracurricular activities and application essays. Students of color still face disadvantages with some of these as well, but they are arguably easier to combat than a century-old standardized test system that has been working against them for years. Psychologist and eugenicist Carl Brigham, a white supremacist who believed that interracial marriage would bring about the demise of the education system, had a large part in
Illustration By Jessie Siemens
developing the SAT, which debuted in the 1920s. Based on his published, extremely racist remarks, it’s clear Brigham was not interested in creating a test that was truly fair for every student and would adequately assess their knowledge. Its origins were racist, and therefore, the system needs major reform. Some universities, such as NAU, have taken away the standardized test requirement and replaced it with a set amount of coursework to be considered for admission. Students who would like to be considered for merit-based scholarships, or have deficiencies in the course requirements, may submit their SAT or ACT scores to make up for it. This is a step in the right direction — while merit-based scholarships still favor students with higher socioeconomic statuses, it’s encouraging that the opportunity for admission is overall available to more students. If organizations such as College Board and the Department of Education will not work to make higher education more accessible to all students, perhaps it can start at the university level by considering other factors for admission. A diverse, vibrant student body will help an institution succeed, and a straightlaced, archaic standardized test requirement will only hinder that success, for universities and students alike.
NOV. 11- NOV. 17, 2021 | THE LUMBERJACK
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Climate change on reservations Alexandria Vallejo
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limate change is not a new problem. Activists, politicians and the general public have discussed it for years. However, the changes are becoming increasingly noticeable and affecting the world more and more each day. Though some communities are influenced more than others, Indigenous people living on reservations are being impacted in different ways. According to the United Nations, climate change is noticeable through temperature increases, intense droughts, water scarcity and melting ice caps, to name a few indicators. In northern Arizona, these issues are apparent. Flagstaff’s Climate Vulnerability Assessment stated climate change can affect residents, as well as the environment, in a variety of ways. The community will experience larger and more frequent fires, floods, beetle infestations and invasive species, along with depreciated forest health. More wildfires, drought and flooding can make water a scarce resource, in addition to impairing its quality. Indigenous communities around Flagstaff and northern Arizona are also facing the effects of climate change. On the reservations, their way of life is being threatened.
Junior Sarah Chatter, who is studying public health and pursuing a minor in applied Indigenous studies, has moved back and forth between the reservation and Flagstaff. Her childhood revolved around growing up on the reservation, though she attended school in town. To this day, she and her family haul water for drinking, cooking, cleaning, growing crops and taking care of animals. Chatter said she has noticed the effects of climate change both on and off the reservation. “As a student on campus, I experience the change, although I’m an hour away,” Chatter said. “We have many medicinal plants that serve various purposes and this year, those plants either have not grown at all, or the selection is very sparse.” She explained the wells surrounding her paternal grandparents’ homeland have dried out, so their animals need water hauled weekly. This is especially difficult due to regulations the Navajo Nation implemented to limit the amount of water households can get from the Tribal Utility Authority. Additionally, the price of livestock has gone down because families are unable to nourish their animals with enough hay, which can lead to more supply and less demand. Droughts have made it difficult to grow vegetation, and families across the
reservation are struggling to meet the physical and financial demands to keep their livestock healthy, Chatter said. These difficulties have forced many families to sell or auction off their livestock. NAU alumna Juana Apachito graduated in spring 2021, and her parents — Juan Apachito Sr. and Gracie Apachito — own a ranch on the Navajo reservation just outside Gallup, New Mexico. Juana said their ranch consists of livestock such as horses, sheep and cattle. The effects of the warming climate have been noticeable on their ranch in many ways, as Gracie recalled it was greener in the 1960s. “We used to have a lot of fun out there jumping around in the water,” Gracie said. “And all you could see was green all the way across [the ranch].” Gracie and Juan explained they once had the largest herd in their community — around 300 cattle and 500 sheep — but now, it is much smaller. They said it has become harder to take care of the animals as things have changed, such as water scarcity and rising hay costs. Following these changes, which connect to climate change,
“I am hopeful that this generation of youth will overcome the systematic mistreatment of people of color as well as the environment, thus beginning the reversal of the detrimental effects of industrialization and capitalism.” –Junior Sarah Chatter
Left: A windmill on the Navajo Nation reservation in northern Arizona in the 1960s. Middle: Sheep circle around a trailer on the reservation in 1962. Right: Snow covers the ground on Navajo land in 1962. P
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FEATURES
s affects Indigenous ways of life the Apachitos could not live entirely off of their livestock like they used to. They had to get jobs within their community, and off the ranch, because living off the land could no longer sustain them, Gracie explained. “I don’t think that we really would have survived,” Gracie said. “Who’s gonna be doing the work here? Who’s gonna be hauling the hay? Who’s gonna be branding? To round up those cattle used to [take] the whole week.” The climate change induced drought — as described in the Flagstaff Climate Vulnerability Assessment — has made summers on the ranch more difficult. The amount of water they needed to haul increased year by year, so the family decreased the number of livestock to make things easier. On the other hand, Juana noted there was more green on the ranch last summer, likely because they got more rain. Those few months were not enough to merit replenishing the number of livestock, however, and it is not fully guaranteed they will get enough rain in the coming years. Juan recalled that, on the reservation, it used to rain throughout October. In the winter, snow accumulations were six
to 10 feet, approximately. Her parents explained that although summers are hard, winters are actually easier. With less snowfall, the family is able to travel a bit easier when hauling water. Managing their ranch is safer overall, Juan said, because they have less concern about blizzards or winds coming in. Though these positive aspects shine some light for the Apachito family and their ranch, it does not diminish the struggles they encounter in the summer, nor any of the challenges Indigenous communities experience with the rapidly changing climate. Oftentimes, these populations depend on their livestock or agriculture to survive. This way of living is difficult to maintain when the climate continues to change, as Chatter and the Apachito family both explained. Similar to the Flagstaff community, the Navajo Nation is spreading awareness on climate change and environmental impacts. In 2018, the Navajo Department of Fish and Wildlife released a Climate Adaptation Plan, which detailed the importance of recognizing and analyzing the effects of climate change with Indigenous culture at risk. One such custom is
using, and depending on, natural resources to survive. The plan illustrated the importance of communicating about climate change between departments, governments and the people as a whole. One focus was communicating to spread awareness of climate change and ensuring there is active discussion between departments and governments on the issue. The implementation of this plan is northern Arizona’s first step in adapting to rising temperatures and droughts, along with surviving through their effects. With the implementation of climate precautions, Indigenous communities will be better able to carry on the traditions imperative to the reservations, as Chatter and Apachito said. Despite the adversities that her family, and many other Indigenous households, face with the effects of climate change, Chatter remained positive. “I am hopeful that this generation of youth will overcome the systematic mistreatment of People of Color as well as the environment, thus beginning the reversal of the detrimental effects of industrialization and capitalism,” Chatter said. “It will take time and extreme effort no doubt, but the outcome will be worth it.”
Photos courtesy of Juana and Gracie Apachito
NOV. 11 - NOV. 17, 2021 | THE LUMBERJACK
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FEATURES
Student internships: Finding a way th Shay Maruna Photo courtesy of Jacob Crow
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f you have watched television shows such as “How to Get Away With Murder,” or seen movies like “Legally Blonde,” chances are you have witnessed the portrayal of interns in film. Oftentimes, we see actors playing the role of interns, but these positions are exaggerations of reality. Contrary to what we tend to see in the media, most interns are not coffee-making, photocopying robots. Internships do not always entail redundant work and sleepless nights, either — as depicted in “Grey’s Anatomy.” In fact, outside of movies and television shows, many successful individuals advocate for internships, and some even started their careers through such opportunities. SpaceX founder and CEO Elon Musk also leads an electric vehicle company, Tesla. However, before accumulating over $300 billion, Musk started his career as a summer intern for the Bank of Nova Scotia. Musk speaks openly about this endeavor on Twitter. In addition to Musk, Insider listed others whose careers flourished after beginning as interns, including Bill Gates and Steven Spielberg. These three examples, along with many others, speak highly of the experience to be gained from internships. Mesa Community College sophomore Laura Sepulveda is currently participating in her second internship. Sepulveda is studying journalism and mass communication, and she recently began her latest internship at The Arizona Republic, where she covers breaking news stories. “At the breaking news desk we cover a lot of crime, events, protests and articles that need to go out as quickly as possible,” Sepulveda said. “Usually my editors pitch a story to me, and then I call some sources, do some research and finally write up the story — my only task is writing.” Before beginning as an intern, Sepulveda was nervous about the type of work that would be expected of her due to misconceptions regarding internships. After spending time with The Arizona Republic, Sepulveda said she feels less anxious about her daily tasks and better prepared for her career. This work has furthered Sepulveda’s interest in working for a newspaper after she graduates. “It has been very different,” Sepulveda said. “Before starting the internship, I was a little bit scared because I thought it was going to be a lot of pressure and I might be a little bit exploited, mainly because of the media portrayal that I had seen. “My editors have been very helpful, and I consider them as mentors,” Sepulveda added. “I’ve learned more about the style, how to meet deadlines and how to work with other reporters. I feel like when you have someone that’s there teaching you
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with experience, that is really helpful.” Some colleges, such as UArizona, have recognized this benefit and require all students to participate in internships, which count as three credits. In addition to aiding students in exploring their passions, the internship requirement urges them to gain work experience that ordinary college courses cannot provide. Jacob Crow, a guest service representative for the Phoenix Suns, is one UArizona graduate who is appreciative of the school’s internship requirement. After spending his freshman
Photo courtesy of Laura Sepulveda
FEATURES
hrough the career field year at NAU, Crow transferred to UArizona in 2018, and graduated in May 2021 with internship experience in digital marketing. “I got a lot of valuable knowledge out of [being an intern], and I am glad I had to do it because I feel like I would’ve entered the job world where I would be asked to do all of these things I would have had no idea how to do,” Crow said. “I learned a lot of skills that others don’t have when applying for jobs — it taught me how to deal with business and clients in the real world.” With only one internship under his belt, Crow was able to secure a job he is proud to have. Furthermore, if given the chance, Crow said he would have attempted to participate in more internship opportunities before graduation, and he recommends them to others. “My honest opinion is that [internships] are really important,” Crow said. “I wish I could’ve done more because it is real hands-on knowledge, which is way more than I ever learned in school. My recommendation would be to do as many internships as you can. You can get an awesome job before finishing school simply because you have more experience than anybody else.” Part of the reason students interns are often more successful is because of the connections made within organizations. Many interns get field experience with mentors, who share knowledge and make it easier to transition into jobs. Senior Severina Mana’o, who studies criminal justice, is participating in an internship offered through Coconino County’s Victim Witness Services. This internship provides Mana’o with opportunities to watch live court cases, visit crime scenes and handle crisis calls. “I have an advocate who helps me through each process, which helps me learn about my job rather than being thrown into something,” Mana’o said. “My social and communication skills have grown a lot since the start of my internship, because I have been put into situations that are out of my usual comfort zone. I’m glad to be getting this real life experience in a controlled environment.” Mana’o said she plans to pursue a career at a nonprofit organization, similar to the one she interns for now, or with a law enforcement agency. Her internship has been crucial in exploring these paths, and has even nurtured a passion for nonprofit work. “I feel like I would not have found my interest for what people do in nonprofits such as the one I am associated with now,”
Mana’o said. “Before the start of my internship, my career interests were completely different. Being a senior in college, I never would have expected my career interests to change, but the internship had that effect — and I’m thankful for it.” Through internships, students can benefit in serious and significant ways. Despite the Hollywood stereotypes of internships, students can reap many benefits. Whether they are gaining hands-on training for their career, building professional networks or working to get a foot in the door with certain organizations, interns are setting themselves up for success. More times than not, former interns have pleasant things to say about their experiences, and the encouragement for younger generations to get involved as interns continues.
Photo courtesy of Severina Mana’o
Camille Sipple What is it like to be a woman? It’s forgetting your pepper spray, so you walk down that dark road to your apartment armed only with a hydroflask and over the shoulder glances. It’s putting your hair in a ponytail and walking at a brisk pace, praying you go unnoticed. It’s making no eye contact, but still keeping your head on a swivel. It’s making sure your door locked behind you, because who knows who’s been following you the past two blocks… It’s committing a crime… by wearing yoga pants. And being sentenced to a day of whistles and catcalls. It’s worrying if your outfit makes you look hot or whorish every time you go out. It’s being called too quiet all your life, but when you speak up you’re too loud and annoying. And of course nobody likes a girl who isn’t meek, who speaks her mind, let alone one who calls society out on its bullshit. Be quiet, but not silent. Love yourself… but not too much. Confidence is attractive! Until you say something you shouldn’t. It’s drinking enough, but not too much. But if you drink too much, it’s OK! Just believe the guy’s side of the story because he’s always right. It’s being asked in court to recount the story, and realizing that saying you don’t remember means you were in the wrong because you drank too much and you wore that black dress. It’s “stick your ass out to get their attention!” Or “wear that push-up bra so they notice you!” But not too much because then you’re “asking for it,” and if you’re “asking for it,” then you shouldn’t be surprised at what they do. It’s being labeled a slut or a whore for anything and everything. It’s being asked your opinion but then immediately talked over. It’s men being intimidated by a smart woman, and degrading her so much she begins to doubt herself. It’s telling little girls they can be anything they want, and then only giving them dolls and princesses to play with. It’s growing up yearning after a prince to rescue us, and not realizing that misogyny has been woven into every fairytale we were ever told. Being a woman is hoping your future daughter and granddaughter feel safer at night than you, but knowing they won’t. And hoping when they walk down the street they’ll be able to wear whatever they want, without worrying about strangers yelling and whistling at them, but knowing it won’t change. No matter how many marches are held, how many petitions are signed or how many groups are created. Perhaps that’s cynical but ... hell, that’s society. That is what it’s like to be a woman.
NOV. 11 - NOV. 17, 2021 | THE LUMBERJACK
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CULTURE
‘Tell It To My Heart’ brings Hozier fans home
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rish singer-songwriter Hozie, had not released any new music since the 2019 release of his album, “Wasteland, Baby!” — that is, until Oct. 29. The musician teamed up with the dance/electronic production trio, Meduza, to create the experience that is “Tell It To My Heart.” In contrast to many of Hozier’s prior releases, “Tell It To My Heart” exudes an electronic energy that, without hesitation, transports listeners to a dance floor CAMILLE filled with flashing lights and people dancing their SIPPLE hearts out. I can easily picture a DJ playing this song on its own, or as a remix in a club sometime soon. MANAGING EDITOR Combining Meduza’s electronic style with Hozier’s vocals was not something I would have suggested or expected but, nonetheless, I am thoroughly impressed. Shortly after releasing “Tell It To My Heart” Hozier tweeted a brief explanation of the song, as well as elaborating on why he and Meduza decided to release it. “After a long period of people missing the buzz of dance floors and live electronic music, @MeduzaMusic reached out with a song,” Hozier tweeted. “It felt the right time to lend my voice to a project outside my comfort zone.” The song begins semi-softly, with echoes of Hozier’s voice and a soft background of synthesized beats. As Hozier’s beginning vocals come into full focus, a strong, almost metronomic beat fills the background — alluding to a heartbeat — adding to the dance style of Meduza’s music. Though the musical aspects of “Tell It To My Heart” may differ from Hozier’s previous, typically acoustically inclined, songs, the emotions in the lyrics scream Hozier. “I can work you out / Are you thinkin’ ’bout somethin’ better? / Holdin’ on to you / While you drag me through stormy weather / The only time you smile is in the photograph / And when I pull you close it’s like you’re holdin’ back,” Hozier sings in the first verse. The lyrics are unequivocally Hozier. While it may not be as obvious when listeners first hear the song, due to the electronic dance music surrounding it, the lyrics are extremely emotional and tell the story of someone who feels their partner is slipping away from them. The line “Tell it to my heart” reminds me of the phrase “say it to my face” because throughout the song, it is clear the protagonist knows they are losing their partner. They don’t know why, but they can feel the distance that has grown between them, despite the protagonist’s best efforts. Although they already have a gut feeling of what’s happening, the protagonist needs their partner to tell them the truth — directly. This truth may provide them closure, confirmation or both, so they can move forward again instead of being dragged behind a partner who is no longer interested in the relationship. As always, Hozier does an incredible job of conveying this heartbreaking feeling in the form of a song. Meduza’s electronic music makes for an interesting contrast to Hozier’s saddened lyrics. These two sides of “Tell It To My Heart’’ create dual concepts of the same song and therefore a doubleedged sword of mastery.
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Nov. 1-5: Engagements and casting announcements Katelyn Rodriguez Top five stories of the week: 1. Actor Kristen Stewart revealed on “The Howard Stern Show” that she’s engaged to her girlfriend Dylan Meyer. 2. According to Deadline, actor Gal Gadot is negotiating with Disney to play the Evil Queen in its live action adaptation of “Snow White.” 3. Variety reported that production on “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever” has been temporarily shut down as actor Letitia Wright recovers from an injury she sustained while filming. 4. Casting for Jon M. Chu’s film adaptation of the musical “Wicked” was announced Nov. 4. Singer Ariana Grande will play Glinda and actor Cynthia Erivo will play Elphaba. 5. Eight people were killed and at least a dozen injured at rapper Travis Scott’s 2021 Astroworld Festival in Houston, Texas on Nov. 5 according to KHOU 11 News. Scott released a statement on social media Saturday.
Recent releases: “Eternals” (in theaters) “Spencer” (in theaters) “Red Notice” (in theaters) “Voyage” by ABBA (album) “Thank You” by Diana Ross (album) “Your Song Saved My Life” by U2 (single) “Fallen Fruit” by Lorde (music video) “Still Over It” by Summer Walker (album) “The Book of Boba Fett” (trailer) “Stranger Things” season four (trailer)
Top 15 charting songs: 1. “Easy On Me” by Adele 2. “Stay” by The Kid LAROI featuring Justin Bieber 3. “INDUSTRY BABY” by Lil Nas X featuring Jack Harlow 4. “Fancy Like” by Walker Hayes 5. “Bad Habits” by Ed Sheeran 6. “Way 2 Sexy” by Drake featuring Future and Young Thug 7. “Shivers” by Ed Sheeran 8. “good 4 u” by Olivia Rodrigo 9. “Need To Know” by Doja Cat 10. “Levitating” by Dua Lipa 11. “Essence” by Wizkid featuring Justin Bieber and Tems 12. “Kiss Me More” by Doja Cat featuring SZA 13. “Heat Waves” by Glass Animals 14. “Beggin’” by Måneskin 15. “Cold Heart (PNAU Remix)” by Elton John featuring Dua Lipa Song data from Billboard’s The Hot 100 Chart
CULTURE
Gone Before Us guitarists Jason Smith (left) and Logan Warren (right) play at Battle of the Bands, hosted by KJACK Radio, Nov. 4. MacKenzie Brower| The Lumberjack
Gone Before Us takes the win at KJACK’s Battle of the Bands Hannah Elsmore
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here was a surplus of musical talent at Orpheum Theater on Nov. 4 for Battle of the Bands, hosted by KJACK Radio. This was an opportunity for local bands to showcase their skills in the form of friendly competition. Several bands competed, including Weapon of Pride, Meat Wallet, Alien Arcade and Gone Before Us. Attendees voted for their favorite band via text after each group had the opportunity to perform. Gone Before Us — composed of Logan Warren, Ethan Bertrand, Jason Smith and Charlie Herman — was voted the winning band. The group formed more than four years ago, and originally consisted of Warren and Bertrand, who were still in high school. The two were already longtime friends, shared an interest in live music and eventually came across Smith and Herman. The band is one of the few completely male punk bands within the local scene. Since its formation, the group has performed at many venues in cities outside of Flagstaff.
With a punk-rock approach to the house music style, the group is well known in small music communities throughout the state. Smith said the pandemic allowed many new bands to emerge, making events like Battle of the Bands especially interesting. Warren agreed the music scene has a different and unexplainable feeling now that the pandemic is not affecting live shows as much. “I feel that shows have a different feel to them now,” Warren said. “Not really sure how to describe it though.” Herman said during the pandemic, the band felt a sense of emptiness due to the lack of live performances. Despite this, the musicians saw Battle of the Bands as an opportunity to grow their confidence and portray their energy. “Live music means so much to me,” Jason Smith said. “There’s nothing like the rush of adrenaline I feel the moment we start playing a set.” The group brought this energy to the stage Nov. 4. Gone Before Us band members jumped around the stage enthusiastically while playing, and the crowd reciprocated their liveliness. Warren said this show was one of his
favorites thus far, but explained they would have felt that way regardless of winning. Despite their positive attitude toward some healthy competition, they were thrilled with the victory. “It really means a lot to me,” Warren said. “This is what I want to do for a living, and seeing people enjoy it is just something I can’t wrap my mind around.” Winning gave them confidence, especially in their growth, the musicians said. They added that it feels as though their high school dreams are coming to fruition. “It really shows the progress that we have made, not just as a band, but as individuals as well,” Jason Smith said. Group members said the audience seemed happy to support their win. Junior Zach Smith, who attended the event, said he goes to local shows often, although he was unsure if he would enjoy Battle of the Bands due to its competitive nature. “I was honestly just going because my friends wanted me to,” Zach Smith said. “But it was actually super cool to see all of the local talent that Flagstaff has to offer.” Despite the competition, band members
were sure to cheer for the other groups when they were not performing. More than anything, Battle of the Bands was about acknowledging local talent. “Everyone was so supportive of each other,” Zach Smith said. “I was reminded that the scene here isn’t about being fake, or anything of that nature.” Gone Before Us has expanded its audience since earlier shows. Starting in 2019, the group released music on streaming platforms such as Spotify and Apple Music. This includes the album “Stop the Earth! I Want to Get Off” and several other EPs. “All of the other bands played great, and the results of the event felt very close,” Herman said. “Overall I am really happy with how the night went.” Battle of the Bands will likely return to Orpheum Theater next year, and musicians will have the opportunity to compete once again. However, this year’s competition was a chance for attendees, listeners and other groups to recognize Gone Before Us for years of hard work and dedication to local live music.
NOV. 11 2021 – NOV. 17, 2021 | THE LUMBERJACK
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CULTURE
JAPANESE BREAKFAST & SASAMI Michelle Zauner of the band Japanese Breakfast sings “Posing in Bondage” in Prochnow Auditorium during the band’s concert, Nov. 5. Madison Easton | The Lumberjack
Guitarist Peter Bradley of the band Japanese Breakfast woos the crowd during the band’s song “Kokomo, IN” in Prochnow Auditorium during the band’s concert, Nov. 5. Madison Easton | The Lumberjack
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Artist Sasami sings during her setlist in Prochnow Auditorium, Nov. 5. Madison Easton | The Lumberjack
CULTURE Japanese Breakfast, led by singer Michelle Zauner, finish the night with an encore in Prochnow Auditorium, Nov. 5. Madison Easton | The Lumberjack
The audience jumps and cheers during the Japanese Breakfast concert in Prochnow Auditorium, Nov. 5. Madison Easton | The Lumberjack
Artist Sasami shares a moment with Graham Brooks as the opener for the Japanese Breakfast concert in Prochnow Auditorium, Nov. 5. Madison Easton | The Lumberjack
NOV. 11 2021 – NOV. 17, 2021 | THE LUMBERJACK
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SPORTS
BLUE AND GOLD IN ACTION Recent game scores It’s time to expand the College Football Playoff
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any fans of NCAA football have expressed they are against expanding the four-team College Football Playoff (CFP), explaining regulars in the top four will continue to be the dominant force — failing to change the ultimate winner and prolonging an already hefty postseason. Others say this would eventually lead to a cascading effect WILL of more teams being added. Still, others HOPKINS argue it would make the regular season less competitive. At this point, if programs ASST. SPORTS EDITOR aren’t in the top 10, come the first ranking, they may as well stop playing. People don’t complain about the size of the NFL playoffs, which recently expanded. Meanwhile, the NBA just extended its postseason and started with a massive upset when the Golden State Warriors lost in the Play-in Tournament to the Memphis Grizzlies. March Madness is one of the most anticipated sporting events of the year, and here’s why: Watching an unknown team come out of nowhere to upset a championship favorite is one of the best feelings in sports. Allowing more teams on the biggest stage in the sport guarantees not only more competition for the big teams, but forces the world to acknowledge the little guys exist and deserve the opportunity to prove themselves. It’s clear that if the sport wants to see meaningful change, it needs to give different schools chances. The CFP committee will use the excuse of a program passing the eye test to make the rich richer, while keeping the teams that don’t have previous success away from the success they deserve. Expansion will happen, and it won’t make the college football world perfect, but it will force the committee to acknowledge the accomplishments of smaller schools. The CFP was once a grand new hope. It was a system that would give the chance for new and exciting teams to fight their way into the highest echelon of the sport, but the opposite has been proven in the years since the playoff went into effect. The 9-0 Cincinnati Bearcats have proven themselves: They beat a top 10 team, have not fallen to any challengers and most importantly, they were recognized by the AP poll as a one of the two best teams in the country. However, on Nov. 2, Cincinnati opened at No. 6 in the initial CFP rankings. While Cincinnati ascended one spot to fifth in the Nov. 9 rankings, the committee’s treatment of the Bearcats shows just how little it cares about fairness. It is a necessity that the CFP adds more teams in the years to come, but there is some pushback.
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Volleyball
NAU VS Southern Utah Thursday, Nov. 4, 6:30 p.m. Final: (W) NAU 3 - SUU 1 NAU VS SACRAMENTO STATE Saturday, Nov. 6, 6 p.m. Final: (W) NAU 3 - SAC STATE 0
SOCCER BIG SKY TOURNAMENT
NAU VS SACRAMENTO STATE WEDNESDAY, NOV. 3, 10 A.M. FINAL: (L) NAU 0 - SAC STATE 1
Football
NAU VS DAVIS Saturday, NOV. 6, 1 P.M. Final: (L) NAU 24 - UC DAVIS 40
Upcoming games Volleyball
NAU @ Weber State Thursday, Nov. 11, 6 p.m. (Ogden, Utah/Swenson Gym) NAU @ Idaho State Saturday, Nov. 13, 1 p.m. (Pocatello, Idaho/Reed Gym)
Men’s Basketball
NAU @ Washington Thursday, Nov. 11, 8:30 p.m. (Seattle, Washington/Alaska Airlines Arena) NAU vs Benedictine Mesa Monday, Nov. 15, 6 p.m. (Flagstaff, Arizona/Rolle Activity Center)
woMen’s Basketball
NAU @ Washington State Friday, Nov. 12, 3 p.m. (Pullman, Washington/Beasley Coliseum) NAU @ Washington Sunday, Nov. 14, 3 p.m. (Seattle, Washington/Alaska Airlines Arena) NAU @ UNLV Wednesday, Nov 17. 6 p.m. (Flagstaff, Arizona/Rolle Activity Center)
Football
NAU vs Montana Saturday, Nov. 13, 1 p.m. (Flagstaff, Arizona/Walkup Skydome)
SPORTS
Lumberjacks halt Hornets streak with 3-0 win Will Hopkins
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AU volleyball had to overcome fierce Sacramento State resistance in a 3-0 victory Nov. 6 at Rolle Activity Center. The Hornets put together a lot of runs at crucial points, but the Lumberjacks were always up to the task and never looked to be out of the driver’s seat. The win saw NAU jump ahead of the Hornets in the Big Sky standings. This contest was a potential first-round preview of the Big Sky Tournament. NAU needed to stop a Sacramento State team that had been on a tear entering the matchup — having won six-straight games compared to the Lumberjacks’ two. However, NAU could look to its previous matchup with the Hornets, which ended in a Lumberjack 3-0 sweep, for confidence. Sacramento State’s hot streak carried into the early phases of the first set, jumping out to a 5-1 lead, but the Lumberjacks were
not deterred as they fought their way back to within one, 7-6. Senior opposite hitter Ryann Davis and junior middle blocker Neche Newton were a brick wall that gave the Hornets as much as they could handle, combining for eight blocks in the opening set. Still, the set went back and forth. “We’ve been connecting really well this season,” Davis said of her relationship with Newton. “We’ve really been working on and practicing closing that block and being sealed every time.” NAU eventually took control for a 25-20 win, closing the set emphatically with a Newton block. The two teams fought to find an upper hand early in the second set but, once again, Sacramento State pulled ahead, going on a 4-0 run — and taking an 8-4 lead — before the Lumberjacks answered with four consecutive points of their own. NAU capitalized on this momentum and did not give up the lead after securing it, 10-9. Despite a run from the Hornets to try to salvage
the set, the Lumberjacks put themselves in position to win 25-20 in set two. NAU jumped out to an early lead in the third set, not wanting to give the Hornets an opportunity to get back in the game. Although the Hornets battled every point, the Lumberjacks looked dominant. Sacramento State kept it close, but could not overcome the early deficit. NAU walked away with another victory, 25-20. “We’ve been winning all year and I think we’re peaking at the right time,” head coach Ken Murphy said. “I think if we play like we did tonight next weekend, I feel good going into the conference tournament.” With this win, the Lumberjacks jumped the Hornets in the Big Sky standings, moving into fifth place. NAU will travel to Ogden, Utah and Pocatello, Idaho to finish the season, having already clinched a Big Sky tournament berth.
Sophomore middle blocker Jordan Elder (4) spikes the ball against Sacramento State at Rolle Activity Center, Nov. 6. Brian Burke | The Lumberjack
NOV. 11 - NOV. 17, 2021 | THE LUMBERJACK
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SPORTS
NAU women’s basketball ready for ‘Las
NAU women’s basketball head coach Loree Payne leads her team back to the game after a timeout Feb. 25, 2020. Michael Patacsil | The Lumberjack
Cameron Richardson
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hrough the last two years, college basketball teams did their best to fight through the COVID-19 pandemic and complete a full season. In hindsight, the 2021 season was a success for NCAA basketball, as the beloved “March Madness” postseason tournament returned with few issues. NAU women’s basketball, on the other hand, had to overcome more than the pandemic. Senior guard Lauren Orndoff and redshirt junior guard Nina Radford were sidelined all last year due to injuries and the pandemic. In the 2019-20 season, Orndoff averaged 9 points per game, while Radford shot just under 41% from beyond the arc, the best single-season mark for any NAU women’s basketball player with a minimum of 100 attempts. In the absence of Orndoff and Radford, head coach Loree Payne had to build depth throughout the roster to put together a quality season. That depth should show this season with Orndoff and Radford returning to full strength. “We have an opportunity where we are looking to go 10
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to 12 players deep on any given night,” Payne said. “It’s a good problem to have because we can sustain our players for a long season.” However, the Lumberjacks were not completely without veteran leadership, as senior forward Khiarica Rasheed appeared in 22 of 29 games, including the last 14. Rasheed ranked third in the Big Sky Conference last season for field-goal percentage (47.2%) and finished 10th in scoring (13.3 points per game) and rebounding (6.7 rebounds per game). Junior guard Regan Schenck stepped into a leadership role and took on the assignment of floor general. She had a breakout season last year after starting all 29 games and averaging 11.4 points, 6.8 rebounds and 5.1 assists per game. Schenck led the Big Sky in assists and ranked 29th overall in the NCAA. Her 2.10 assist-to-turnover ratio ranked third in the conference. She also shot well from beyond the arc — at a 43.8% clip — but Schenck said she is still working on her offensive versatility. “I really want to improve my mid-range,” Schenck said. “A lot of the time last year, I was using the step-back, driving to the
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basket or spotting up from three, but I can be more of a threat if I can stop and pop from the key.” While Schenck will still work as the floor general this season, she will have the leadership of Orndoff and Radford to complement her. “It’s so nice to have those two back on the court,” Schenck said. “They definitely help with the flow on offense and defense.” NAU has a difficult task ahead with a tough nonconference schedule. The season opened Nov. 12 at Washington State University, followed by a trip to Seattle to take on the University of Washington on Nov. 14. However, NAU has December circled on the schedule, as it gets the opportunity to host in-state rivals Grand Canyon University (GCU) on Dec. 9 and UArizona on Dec. 17. The game against the Wildcats is a good chance for the Lumberjacks at the Walkup Skydome — UArizona was a finalist in the NCAA Tournament last season. “Continuing to build that in-state rivalry is a big piece, and UArizona coming up to play us after a national championship run
SPORTS
st Dance’ run entering 2021-22 season
Junior guard Regan Schenck drives against Weber State at Rolle Activity Center, Feb. 20. Brian Burke | The Lumberjack
is exciting for the community,” Payne said. Schenck shared the same sentiment that these in-state rivals, whether UArizona or GCU, are important for NAU as a team. “I really, really want to beat them [GCU],” Schenck said. “We didn’t play to the best of our ability. I really hope we can run on them when they come up to [Flagstaff’s] elevation.” Offense was not an issue for NAU last season. The team ranked second in field goal percentage and fourth in scoring in the Big Sky. However, the Lumberjacks’ defense struggled to contain opponents. They surrendered the highest field goal percentage in the Big Sky at 43.7%, and their 70.1 points per game allowed was fourth-most in the conference. NAU’s overall scoring margin was not something to gawk over either, as it sat at plus-1.1. “Defense has been something we’ve really focused on, and morphing our system around the strengths of our players,” Payne said. New faces will emerge for the Lumberjacks this season, such as freshman forward Natalie Greenwood and redshirt sophomore
forward Sierra Mich’l, who transferred from Pima Community College. Both are set to provide help in the key, as Mich’l and Greenwood stand over 6-feet. In 2020-21, the Lumberjacks were outrebounded 1,100-1,053, and had the fourth-worst board margin in the Big Sky at minus-1.6. “They’re both great players,” Schenck said. “It’s nice to have true posts because we have been pretty guard-heavy in the past. Sierra is a great long post. She runs the floor hard and is one of the fastest posts we’ve had, which is really nice because she blends well with my speed of play. I could make a bad pass, but she’ll still go for the ball and get it.” As for Greenwood, she enters Flagstaff as a multi-sport athlete who led her Texas high school in rebounds, blocks and assists. She also won state titles in softball and cross country. “Natalie is just a great teammate and one of our hardest workers,” Schenck said. “She’s going to be a good player for us.” For NAU, it is not just about a Big Sky Conference championship at the end of the year. The team is back together
and healthy for the first time in a while, and veteran players showed the resilience to return for one final run when the season opens Friday.
“Defense has been something we’ve been really focused on, and morphing our system around the strength of our players.” – Head coach Loree PAYNE
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