Oct. 07, 2020

THE TIMES-DELPHIC The weekly student newspaper of Drake University Vol. 140 | No. 7 | Oct. 7, 2020

FEATURES

SPORTS

COMMENTARY

Members of La Fuerza Latina discuss celebrating Latinx history month and how their programming this year is shining a light on the diversity of the Latinx experience.

The Tampa Bay Lightning took home the Stanley Cup after defeating the Dallas Stars in an epic battle of wits, skill, strategy and passion

One columnist discusses the highs and lows of the recent presidential debate, including who they believe won over voters in the most effective way.

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Faculty Senate approves changes to spring break timesdelphic.com

Sophia Lacy Staff Writer sophia.lacy@drake.edu

On Sept. 28, Sue Mattison, Provost of Drake University, announced through email to students and faculty the movement of spring break to the end of J-term. The decision was made by the Faculty Senate after voting to move spring break from March to Jan. 2529.

The email stated the change was “designed to help minimize the campus community from leaving the Des Moines area to travel to potentially high-risk COVID regions.”

Shelley Fairbairn, Faculty Senate President, said student preference and student health and safety were two important factors in deciding.

Fairbairn said the discussion was “vigorous” and there were lots of perspectives shared, including the Student Senate President, Adam Koch.

“This was a challenging decision for faculty, as we really care about our students, even though the final decision was not aligned with the student desire for a break during the spring semester,” Fairbairn said.

With the many factors in deciding the fate of the break, senate members said they thought long and hard on students’ and faculty health as well as staying connected to the Drake community.

Jill VanWyke, a professor at Drake and a part of the Faculty Senate, said she thought a lot about the students and worried often about their college experience and mental health.

“There was no good option that was safe from a public

health standpoint,” VanWyke said.

Sandy Henry, a professor at Drake and a part of the Faculty Senate, said there were many factors that were considered when making the decision and they were discussed at length.

Henry said she wanted to let students know that she made her decision with students in mind and their college experience in mind.

“It was hard because I would love to have a spring break with my son,” Henry said. “But this is what we have to do to keep our community together.”

Students were surprised with the final decision even though the Senate had their health and safety as top priority.

Kyle Tekautz, a junior at Drake and member of the Student Senate Faculty Senate Committee, said he was disappointed in the final decision and believed that having it after the Drake Relays would help students more.

“In my opinion, I believe that after Drake Relays, including going virtual for the two weeks after spring break was one of the better options,” Tekautz said.

Tekautz said this option would have allowed students to have a “mental break” and help them prepare for upcoming finals.

Many students were upset with the change in schedule because their plans for March were changed and the email said students will be on campus for spring break.

Esther Gendler, a junior at Drake, said she felt the Senate made the best decision to ensure the community’s safety and health, but feels students need a break from campus life.

“I think it will be hard not

SPRING BREAK will now take place Jan. 25-29 due to COVID concerns. Faculty Senate made the decision at their meeting on Sept. 28. GRAPHIC BY ALLYN BENKOWICH | STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

to have a break and it has the potential for students to become drained and have ‘Zoom fatigue,’” Gendler said.

With students being in dorms for the majority of the time and having limited interactions, living on campus has been draining for some.

Caleb Lillquist, a sophomore at Drake, said he thinks students will need a break and be worn out if remaining on campus that long.

“I feel like I’m going to be worn out when the semester is done for sure,” Lillquist said. “I

already am exhausted from online classes and this semester in particular.”

With the decision, many students have expressed what they would have voted for in regard to spring break.

Gracie Geist, a sophomore at Drake, said she thinks spring break should be after Relays because of the amount of interactions students will have with others.

Geist said she doubts there will be “any social distancing” during relays and having a week after to prepare for the

aftermath would be good and safe.

“It makes a lot more sense to have spring break after Relays based on the amount of social interactions that come with Relays,” Geist said.

Tekautz said the Student Senate is working on having a week in the spring where there are no events or programming during a time frame to help students have some kind of break in the spring semester.

every time he steps back, he gets further from the progressive wing of the party, and he makes it less likely that he’s energizing young, progressive voters.”

In contrast, Kody Craddick, the president of Drake Democrats, says that Trump appeals only to his base.

“He’s playing to appease the 30 to 35 percent of the country who will do anything for him,” Craddick said.

Biden’s array of insults for the President stood out from the other personal attacks. Over the course of the debate, Biden called Trump “racist,” a “clown,” and “the worst president America has ever had.”

moderator of the debate, called out Trump in particular for repeatedly interrupting Biden.

These problems and the focus on personal attacks led Caufield to form a strong negative impression of the debate. “[The debate] was confrontational, it was chaotic, it was disorganized, it was frustrating… it was a difficult debate to watch,” Caufield said.

“I have a hard time even calling it a debate, ‘cause I’m not sure that’s what it was.”

Altendorf and Craddick disagree about what changes should be made to improve the quality of future debates.

Altendorf is open to making improvements to the debate format, but he is “not a fan” of giving the debate moderator the power to mute candidates.

“I don’t like the idea of silencing free speech by cutting off the President or the former vice president while they’re speaking,” Altendorf said.

“I’ll leave it up to the Debate Commission to figure out… the best way forward to make the debates more productive.”

Craddick, on the other hand, is in favor of muting microphones and ending debates early in some cases.

“I think that it seems childish to [mute candidates]. We shouldn’t… have to cut people’s mics if they’re interrupting 70 times in a debate, but we’re not dealing with a fully grown-up incumbent,” Craddick said.

Altendorf and Craddick also have different ideas about who

won the debate.

“I think Biden won, hands down, because Trump showed himself to be an individual who… [is] not capable of making the tough decisions,” Craddick said. “Biden… has the experience… and he has the tools and intelligence to make sure that these issues get taken care of.”

On the other hand, Altendorf thought that Trump did a better job articulating his accomplishments than Biden, especially his economic achievements.

Madeleine Leigh, a member of Drake Democrats, took a different view.

“I’m not sure that anyone won [the debate], but I think that the American people kind of lost,” Leigh said.

Leigh and other Drake students attended a Debate watch party hosted by Drake Democrats on Tuesday night.

According to Craddick, about fifty to sixty people attended, and the watch party was covered

by KCCI. “I think we showed that we’re not afraid to show who we are as Democrats,” Craddick said.

Caufield and her dog Lucy also attended the watch party.

“It was a beautiful night,” Caufield said. “It’s great to give people an opportunity to come together in a social environment, even amid the limitations of the pandemic, and to have some sort of communal political experience… It’s like going to a drive-in movie theater, but updated!”

first presidential debate brings chaos, contention

Andrew Kennard Staff Writer andrew.kennard@drake.edu

On Sept. 29, President Donald Trump and former Vice President Joe Biden clashed in an exceptionally chaotic first presidential debate. The debate covered a variety of important issues, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the state of the economy and the recent Black Lives Matter protests. However, personal attacks made by the candidates defined the debate for many viewers.

Drake University professor Rachel Caufield of the Department of Political Science wants to reassure young voters that this was not a normal presidential debate.

“For first time voters… on behalf of America, I apologize,” Caufield said. “This is not how it’s meant to be and this is not how it will always be.”

Accusations flew thick and fast as each nominee presented their own version of the truth.

Often, Biden and Trump could not come to an agreement about the basic facts of the issues they were discussing, such as the approximate amount of time it will take for a COVID-19 vaccine to become widely available. Both nominees frequently attacked their opponent’s record on COVID-19, race relations and other topics, changing the focus of the conversation from the issues at hand to the candidates themselves.

“The lack of any sort of

coherent explanation of how you would like to lead the country to change policy to address problems is… just frustrating to people,” Caufield said. “Which future do we want?

That [choice] requires… some idea of what the future looks like under each candidate.”

John Altendorf, president of the Drake College Republicans, said that he thinks the debate was a waste of time.

“I don’t think that either candidate really did a service to the voters by the debate on Tuesday night,” Altendorf said.

“They spend far too much time attacking each other [and] not enough time on issues of substance to voters.”

Each candidate tried to paint a certain picture of their opponent during the debate.

Biden cast Trump as a divisive figure who lacks plans for healthcare and COVID-19, while Trump portrayed Biden as a tool of the “Radical Left” during discussion of the Green New Deal and the Black Lives Matter protests.

According to Caufield, Trump’s strategy has hit on the “fundamental question” of Joe Biden’s campaign.

“One of the problems [Joe Biden] faces is that there is a legitimate left, progressive wing of the party with some fairly dramatic policy proposals that have gained mainstream support within the Democractic Party,” Caufield said. “Joe Biden has always been able to step back and say, that’s not me, that’s not who I am. But

“I’m not sure that anyone won [the debate], but I think that the American people kind of lost.”

Craddick says that Biden’s name-calling was necessary in light of Trump’s behavior.

“I think that… if someone’s going to act like a child, you’re going to have to try to be the father up on that stage, and I think Joe Biden did that by… telling him to shut up, man, or calling him a clown,” Craddick said.

In addition, both candidates evaded questions and made many attempts to cut in while their opponent was still speaking. Chris Wallace, the

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NEWS

News

Oct. 7, 2020 | Page 2

Environmental Council pushes for 100 percent clean energy

100 PERCENT DES MOINES is a campaign by the Iowa Environmental Council aiming for the city to shift to 100 percent clean energy by 2030. The organization encourages individuals to contact the city council in support of the campaign. GRAPHIC BY ALLYN BENKOWICH | STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Grace Hulin Staff Writer grace.hulin@drake.edu

The Iowa Environmental Council’s 100 percent Iowa is urging citizens to contact Des Moines Mayor Frank Cownie and Des Moines city council members through emails, letters and phone calls in order to voice their support for the city’s shift to 100 percent clean energy by 2030 as a part of the 100 percent Des Moines campaign.

Members of the Iowa Environmental Council spoke to Des Moines citizens about the 100 percent Des Moines campaign during information Zoom sessions on Sept. 30 and Oct. 1.

The Sierra Club Beyond Coal Campaign and Des Moines Citizen’s Task Force also presented on behalf of 100 percent Des Moines.

Kristen Weaverling, Energy Communications Coordinator for 100 percent Iowa, said 100 percent Iowa is “a grassroots initiative which aims to bring together and empower Iowans to advocate

for 100 percent clean energy here in Iowa.”

100 percent Des Moines is their current campaign to push the mayor and city council to adopt a 100 percent clean energy ordinance that would bring the city to zero carbon by 2030.

Jordan Oster, the Energy Outreach and Advocacy Coordinator with the Iowa Environmental Council, said they would love to see the city take action on this in the coming weeks of 2020.

“We can’t spare another year,” Oster said.

Greenhouse gas emissions are the largest cause of climate change. An inventory of carbon emissions done by the Des Moines Citizens Task Force found that 73 percent of the city’s greenhouse gas emissions comes from residential, commercial and industrial energy use.

Oster said improvements need to be made to storing and dispatching energy to ensure complete clean energy.

While clean energy from solar and wind sources can produce a surplus of power on good days, low wind or cloudy

days and nights often need to be supplemented by other sources.

“Once Des Moines does make this commitment, I think it’s something that could be replicated in other midsized and large-sized communities across the state.”

However, Oster said, anywhere from a quarter to a third of MidAmerican’s energy function in the state still comes from coal. Oster said that Des Moines, a growing portion of MidAmerican’s demand, is in a unique position because it has an energy provider that is increasing its share of clean energy. “[For 100 percent Des Moines,] we’re talking about every kilowatt hour of energy coming into the city being

from a clean source of power,” Oster said.

According to Kristen Rock from the Sierra Club Beyond Coal Campaign, though, “Most coal plants in Iowa are running at least half as much as they were this time a year ago, and yet [MidAmerican] have no plans to retire them.”

Rock said the less productive MidAmerican plants have lost millions of dollars for their customers.

For example, she said two plants outside of Sioux City have lost over $27 million for MidAmerican over the last five years and the company could save over $92 million by committing to retiring these plants by 2023.

Paige Penningroth, a Drake student who works with 100 percent Iowa, said she thinks that if Des Moines shifted to 100 percent clean energy, this may be a push for the company to eventually shift the entire state to clean energy.

“Once Des Moines does make this commitment, I think it’s something that could be replicated in other midsized and large-sized

communities across the state,” Oster said.

The public health ramifications are clear. Oster said 100 percent Iowa is interested in the nexus of environmental justice and equity in the conversation around clean energy. Both pollution and emissions and high energy costs impact low income communities and people of color at higher than average rates.

Switching to clean energy would reduce pollution and emission and lead to cleaner air and water for everyone but especially for those living closest to the plants. While Des Moines does not have to deal with the direct effects of coal plants, it is something that affects the state of Iowa and is on this city to reduce.

In addition to environmental impact, clean energy jobs are among the fastest growing jobs across the country.

“We know that the transitions to clean energy comes with jobs and it comes with energy savings,” Oster said.

Choirs make changes in light of COVID-19 Grace Long Contributing Writer grace.long@drake.edu

COVID-19 has brought many changes to the Drake choir experience this semester as new guidelines have been implemented in classes and rehearsals to keep performers and staff protected.

Although all classes have been impacted by the pandemic, choir is uniquely affected because of the integral role vocals and sounds play in all aspects of the department. Due to the voice-driven nature of the classes, more extensive requirements have been put in place.

“Students must wear a facemask while singing and while coming into and out of rehearsal spaces,” Director of Choral Activities Dr. Eric Barnum said. “We are also physically distancing and have implemented a fluid and dynamic rehearsal schedule to either limit the total time in the rehearsal space, or the number of people rehearsing at any one given time. We have made a virtual class available.”

The biggest difference between the choir guidelines and those for traditional

classes stems from the “fluid and dynamic rehearsal schedule” Barnum described.

To further explain the concept, he used an example to put the procedure in context.

“The rehearsal period is broken up in segments, with 30 minutes of rehearsal followed by 30 minutes of break outside the room to allow the HVAC system to clear the air, and then returning for a final 30 minutes of rehearsal. Other short assignments are given to make up for lost rehearsal time,” Barnum said.

Amid all these procedures, both staff and students agree that the mask requirements have been the most challenging to adapt to.

“I think the hardest thing just comes from having to mask the sound in general,” said Carter Holm, a sophomore at Drake in three different choirs. “The thing about singing is you have to have a lot of breath support, so when you’re breathing through a standard medical mask it’s kind of like you’re breathing through a paper bag. You also can’t really get a sense of what people around you sound like.”

Barnum echoed this

DRAKE CHOIRS are adapting to practicing during the COVID era. Choir practices now include all singers wearing special singing masks, as well as singers standing six feet apart. PHOTO BY LOUIS LUONG, COURTESY OF ERIC BARNUM

concern and added a second layer of problems the masks present for Drake choruses.

“I think the primary challenge of the semester for the students and myself are the implementation of masks. Beyond the obvious impact on sound quality and breath freedom that most experienced singers would expect, an area of greater concern is feedback and interaction,” he said. “It has greatly reduced the ability for students to interact

emotionally, reinforce each other or to create emotional bonds with other students.”

However, regardless of the difficulties encountered and new guidelines to be followed, both directors and students expressed their gratitude at being back in the classroom.

“It’s meant everything to be back together,” said Holm. '”There’s a big sense of community from choir. It’s so good to be back in a room with other people who have that same passion and driving

for singing.”

“I am grateful to the administration and the students for being open, flexible, and diligent in watching the research, utilizing our spaces, and making it work for us to sing during this challenging time,” Barnum said. “Drake remains one of the most excellent places in the country for those interested in pursuing music, even during a pandemic.”

FEATURES

Features

Oct. 7, 2020 | Page 3

Celebrating Latinx Heritage Month

Maria Sayavedra Contributing Writer maria.sayavedra@drake.edu

Latinx Heritage month is a time to celebrate and pay homage to the Latinx communities and their important contributions to society.

It also gives people who do not identify as Latinx a new perspective on the different cultures throughout Latin America.

La Fuerza Latina is starting the dialogue on Drake University’s campus to inform the Latinx community, both on and off campus, about AfroLatinidad and why it matters.

La Fuerza Latina is a multicultural organization at Drake that provides a safe space for students in solidarity with the Latinx community.

They kicked off Latinx

heritage month with a TED Talk, discussing the experiences of Afro-Latinxs within the Latinx community.

Angelica Reyes, senior and president of La Fuerza Latina, explained why it was important to talk about AfroLatinidad.

“Over the summer, we tried to coordinate an event with the other organizations on campus where we would touch on the protests that were happening,” Reyes said. “I thought it was very important to have representation and diverse perspectives just because the Latinx experience is usually seen through one lens, and I think it’s very important that we see it through every lens whether it be Afro-Latinx or any other kind.”

La Fuerza Latina aims to shed light on how much AfroLatinxs have influenced Latin culture and the anti-Blackness within the Latinx community.

They said people who fall under this intersection of race and ethnicity are underrepresented and oftentimes erased from the general conversation.

“It’s just a good thing to educate people, so they know that the same issues of colorism happening here in America are happening in Latin America too.”

Anthony Arroyo, senior and public relations officer for La Fuerza Latina, echoed Reyes’ response.

“I think that people in general are just not informed on the fact that Black people in Latin America exist, and sometimes they even just kind of ignore that,” Arroyo

said. “It’s just a good thing to educate people, so they know that the same issues of colorism happening here in America are happening in Latin America too.”

Led by Denisse Lopez, senior and treasurer of La Fuerza Latina, the TED Talk touched on the badly kept secret of anti-Blackness in the Latinx community and how conflicting the intersection of being both Latina and Black was for her growing up.

“In the Latino community, there is a lot of anti-Blackness, and it’s really prevalent,” Lopez said. “Growing up in that intersection where you are both Latina and Black is very conflicting and causes a lot of internal confusion with just trying to figure out where your place is in the society you live in.”

Lopez believes it is critical to talk about this because of the Black Lives Matter movement.

“Right now especially is very critical to talk about these things because with the Black Lives Matter movement happening, one of the guiding principles is that all Black lives matter,” Lopez said.

“We’re fighting for the lives of all Black people, and that includes those of us within the Latinx community.”

La Fuerza Latina is hoping to continue the conversation about the Latinx experience on campus by sharing information on their social media and having more events.

Their next event will be the sixth annual La Fuerza Latina Banquet at 8 p.m. Oct. 10 in upper Olmsted’s Parents Hall.

To keep up to date with La Fuerza Latina’s oncampus events, visit their social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram @ LaFuerzaLatinaDrake.

Students turn to entertainment to cope with crises

MANY STUDENTS have turned to entertainment platforms to cope with the stress of 2020. PHOTO BY PAYTON SLOBODZIAN | STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Grace Altenhofen Features Editor grace.altenhofen@drake.edu

To say that 2020 has been a difficult year would be an understatement, and many traditional forms of entertainment took a hit as a result. People have had to adapt, turning to alternative forms of entertainment.

This was the case with Drake University student Faith Hinz, who tried the popular video sharing app TikTok for the first time.

“I broke down and finally downloaded TikTok over quarantine and I was addicted,” Hinz said.

To Hinz, entertainment platforms like TikTok are a way of staying connected during a time of quarantine and social distancing.

“It was comforting to have something to take my mind off of all the stress and chaos of life in 2020,” Hinz said.

“I think TikTok is a good

distraction from the real world, and you find your own niche of people on there on your FYP. It’s a nice way to still feel connected to people when you can’t be physically connected due to COVID-19.”

It also inspired Hinz to take up new hobbies during quarantine.

“I taught myself how to roller skate because I saw it on Tik Tok,” Hinz said.

Drake student Emma Roesler had similar experiences with entertainment during coronavirus.

“I spent a lot of time on Netflix and TikTok,” Roesler said. “I also watched a decent amount of Disney+ with my little brothers to pass the time.”

Especially with younger siblings, Roesler said that entertainment platforms helped ward off boredom.

“I think all the entertainment helped me because they kept me busy so that I didn’t get as stir crazy,”

Roesler said. “I think they also helped create a sense of normalcy for my little brothers and I imagine they made people who weren’t with their families feel less alone.”

Feeling more connected to other people was one of the main benefits, according to Roesler.

“I think that apps like TikTok create a platform for people to connect with each other,” Roesler said. “TikTok is different from apps like Instagram because you can see a person talking to you and the connection seems a little more genuine. Also, it’s entertaining and has a lot of new content, unlike Netflix and Hulu which haven’t had as many new things to watch.”

It also helped her feel more in touch with the outside world, even during quarantine.

“I initially turned to social media during quarantine because I was bored, but I turned to it more for solidarity

since the start of the BLM protests,” Roesler said. “I really wanted to participate, but I couldn’t because one of my little brothers is high-risk. Social media helped me feel more involved and informed.”

Roesler found entertainment outside of social media as well.

“I already baked a lot before quarantine. I tried to find a new hobby during quarantine thought because I felt bad wasting food since I didn’t have a lot of people to share it with,” Roesler said. “Instead, I helped homeschool my little brothers and did a lot of science experiments with them. I also painted a wall mural in my parents’ house and started painting furniture. I painted a file cabinet with four different animal prints and painted my brother’s desk with space and science stuff.”

For Drake student Kayode Awonaike, entertainment outlets also served a purpose

as a form of self-expression.

“Downloads of different social media has increased due to the amount of time we are spending at home,” Awonaike said. “It creates an outlet to express yourself in a not-so-fun pandemic.”

Awonaike started his own YouTube channel as a result.

“I’ve been on YouTube a lot and on an anime website. I learned that I love videography and digital art and now have a YouTube channel,” Awonaike said.

“Entertainment has helped solidify my career goals and keeps me grounded.”

And of course, one cannot talk about the entertainment associated with quarantine without mentioning the hit Netflix series Tiger King.

“Of course I watched [Tiger King],” Roesler said.

“I thought it was really good trash TV and a great source of entertainment.

Carol Baskin obviously killed her husband.”

FEATURES

Features

Oct. 7, 2020 | Page 4

“Threads Laid Bare” exhibit on display in Anderson Gallery

THE CECILS OF SCOTT COUNTY is one of many pieces showing in the “Threads Laid Bare” exhibit showing multimedia art, specifically that utilizing thread, textiles, fibers and more. PHOTO COURTESY OF GUEN MONTGOMERY

Dyer Jarabek Contributing Writer dyer.jarabek@drake.edu

Drake University students and faculty have about a week left to see “Threads Laid Bare Exhibition” in the Anderson Gallery of the Harmon Fine Arts Center. The exhibition, which opened on Sept. 3, closes on Oct. 16. The gallery is open from 12 p.m. until 3 p.m., Monday through Friday, with other times also available by advanced request.

Julia Franklin, Director of the Anderson Gallery, said the exhibition showcases multimedia art.

“The pieces are contemporary works made with threads, fibers and textiles, but also expand the definition of what can be made with thread,” Franklin said. “The artworks consist of anything from normal fabrics to displays of how thread can be used, and gives a glimpse of different ways that artists are working with these specific materials.”

The exhibit was curated

by Emily Newman, who

emphasized the show’s importance.

“The exhibit really displays the artists’ identities,” Newman said.

“Besides clothing, people don’t think of textiles for people’s identity, so it’s important for people to see that identities in textiles can be shared through different processes, not just clothing.”

Newman selected all of the artists featured in the exhibition.

“The exhibit consists of over 30 pieces of artwork created by 12 different artists who all made at least two pieces,” Newman said.

“Including artwork from some of Des Moines’ local artists and others spread out across the country.”

Incidentally, each artist who participated in the exhibit was female.

“It wasn’t intentional, but every contributing artist is female, which gave a great acknowledgement of women’s careers and ultimately was a great touch,” Newman said.

One of the artists included local Des Moines talent Cynthia O’Hern, who created

a felted and dyed wool piece.

“The piece I made explores human condition and deals with contemplating life and what it’s like to live in the body,” O’Hern said.

O’Hern said she noticed a common theme among the pieces.

“All works are fantastic and unique, and each artist is female so I noticed a theme of feminism and motherhood which I loved,” O’Hern said.

With concern for COVID-19, Franklin had to implement protocols for visitors at the gallery.

“We only average about five visits per day, but we are only open to Drake students, faculty and staff and all must abide by the Drake contract for COVID-19,” Franklin said. “People must check their temperatures prior to attending, wear masks and socially distance; we also have hand sanitizer at the entrance.”

Franklin also made sure to point out the extra aid from the gallery’s ventilation system.

“The Anderson Gallery also

HOSTED IN THE ANDERSON GALLERY the exhibit showcases over 30 pieces of artwork by 12 different artists, all of whom are female. PHOTO COURTESY OF ANNA CARLSON

has its own ventilation system, so that helps keep air filtered and safe,” Franklin said.

Newman encourages Drake community members

to attend the exhibit before it closes.

“A lot of work was put into making the gallery accessible and to experience art in another way,” Newman said.

School of Journalism launches big-little mentorship program CJ Younger Staff Writer catherine.younger@drake.edu

This August, first-year students across the country entered college during a global pandemic.

With in-person contact limited, it is more difficult than ever to feel part of the larger campus community.

Drake University’s School of Journalism and Mass Communication started a program to bring 54 firstyears and 24 upperclass students together this fall.

Kelly Bruhn, associate dean of the SJMC, was the driving force behind the initiative, which takes the commonly heard phrase “SJMC Family” to a whole new level with a mentorship system similar to the Bigs and Littles found in Greek life.

Bruhn started by reaching out to upperclass students, and found many promising mentors.

“Our Bigs are really active on campus, whether that’s through Drake Broadcasting Systems or Times-Delphic or the radio station,” Bruhn said. “There’s lots of different things that our students lead and do, so I was hoping this would be a way for those mentors to talk through

students and connect them with other opportunities on campus.”

Two to three Bigs were grouped with six to seven first-years.

“We dug into some research about best practices on mentorship, and some students had great experience with one-on-one, but the majority did not,” Bruhn said.

The program transcends the SJMC, aiming to help students in all walks of Drake life. “[The goal is] feeling connected to the SJMC, yes, but also trying to get [firstyears] connected on campus in that first year and living the Drake experience,” Bruhn said.

Madeline Cisneros, a firstyear and a Little, found the program to be less helpful than she’d hoped.

“I got an email a couple weeks before school started, they introduced themselves, and asked if we were okay with making a group chat,” Cisneros said. “No one responded, so I felt really confused and didn’t respond either.”

While communication has been sparse, the SJMC Family program still provided her with two sources of contact in the SJMC.

“I have their contact information, so if I really need to talk to someone, I could go to them,” Cisneros said. “I trust that they’re a good resource, but I just don’t really know them.”

Kyle Tekautz, SJMC orientation leader and Big, attributes the communication issues to competition with the other first-year programming.

“Their PMACs were sending them emails, there’s all this student programming, so there’s almost an overload,” Tekautz said.

Tekautz hasn’t given up on his SJMC Family, though.

“I’m letting it simmer this first month,” Tekautz said.

“I’m letting them settle in with their PMAC, and then I’m going to try and bring it back in this upcoming month.”

Despite the challenges, Bruhn is optimistic and is looking to the future.

“I have seen people who had never been on yearbook or any kind of publication that are now going to be a part of Drake Mag or DBS just because of that Big/Little relationship,” Bruhn said.

“I think it has been a really positive addition and I hope it will stay post-COVID.” Upperclass SJMC students who want to be Bigs for Fall 2021 can email kelly.bruhn@ drake.edu.

THE DRAKE SJMC launched a new mentorship program that pairs upperclassmen with first year students. PHOTO BY GRACE ALTENHOFEN | FEATURES EDITOR

SPORTS

Sports

Oct. 7, 2020 | Page 5

Drake Athletics approves twenty-hour weeks

DRAKE STUDENT-ATHLETES NOW ALLOWED TO PRACTICE TWENTY HOURS A WEEK. With potential competitions starting to be scheduled, Drake Athletics approved more practice hours for athletes, resulting in conflicted responses from players. PHOTO COURTESY OF DRAKE ATHLETICS. Darinka Stepan Contributing Writer darinka.stepan@drake.edu

This past week the Drake Athletic Department voted to allow athletics teams to practice for a maximum of twenty hours, a twelve hour increase from the previous week.

Men’s and women’s basketball, tennis, soccer, golf, track and field, cross country, softball, rowing and football have experienced an increase in practice hours this week as a result of the decision.

Practices now consist of multiple hours on and off their respective courts and fields and involve multiple trips to the weight room.

Practice can start as early as 6 a.m. and go until later in the evenings.

Some teams also have multiple practices in one day.

In one such example, women’s tennis has a very packed schedule, with two days in the week filled with three different practice times.

On those two days, their first practice starts at 7 a.m. and is followed by weights training at 10:30 am. To conclude the day, the players have another tennis practice in the afternoon.

Head Coach Mai-Ly Tran was asked how she felt about the increase of practice hours and she said she “fully supports it.”

Track and field start some days of the week with a 6 a.m. lift in the weight room as well.

Cloud Masibhera, who is on the track and field team at Drake, was asked how he felt with the increases in practice hours that the student athletes now have.

“To be honest, the increase in practice hours presents the same challenges as our eighthour weeks,” Masibhera

said. “The precautions stay the same, all the staff wear masks. We have to wear our masks in the weight room, so despite the change in hours, we still face all of the COIVD-19 precautions that have been challenging.”

“It’s a difficult transition on our bodies and minds.

But it will only make us stronger athletes and build more character.”

Masibhera elaborated on the challenges that he himself and his teammates have had to face.

“It is hard to adjust with online classes as an athlete with more practice hours because as soon as one class

ends, then I have to go to practice,” Masibhera said.

“The atmosphere is different now with the team because we are all so busy. Interacting with the team is harder now.”

First-year Bria Rhodes, who is also on the track and field team, echoed the feeling.

“I feel like it’s a difficult transition not only on our bodies but also on our minds,” Rhodes said. “But all in all, it will only make us stronger athletes and build more character.”

Most student-athletes seem to be in favor of twenty hours weeks, but expressed their concern with time management and mental health.

The increase in practice time could potentially allow the athletes to have stronger results with upcoming competitions.

In fact, men’s tennis will be competing in a tournament in the upcoming weekend,

in addition to men’s golf and cross country.

Rhodes said that the extra practices will help her in these upcoming practice events that they are going to have.

“More practice time will allow the team to focus more on different things,” first-year golf player Aayushi Sarkar said. “But ultimately, as much as I like the increased hours it does not make much sense since we are not competing this fall.”

Like tennis and track, women’s golf also has practices that start at 7 am and afternoon practices on other days.

There is a mix of emotions between the student-athletes and different sports on how they feel about the increase in hours that happened this past week.

Overall, most studentathletes are just happy to still be practicing with their team.

Andrew Vereen joins athletic training staff

FORMER KANSAS ATHLETIC TRAINER ANDREW VEREEN JOINS DRAKE STAFF. Vereen currently works with women’s soccer and softball. PHOTO COURTESY OF ANDREW VEREEN. Darinka Stepan Contributing Writer darinka.stepan@drake.edu

Drake Athletics has recently added a new athletic trainer to the staff: Andrew Vereen.

Vereen grew up in Sioux City, Iowa, where he played four sports and loved being around the culture of team sports.

Given this, Vereen knew he wanted to pursue a career that

involved team sports. Vereen attended the University of Northern Iowa for both his undergraduate and master’s degrees in athletic training and double majored in sports psychology.

Vereen received a job at the University of Kansas, where he worked with their football program as an Assistant Athletic Trainer.

Vereen is now working at Drake and specializes in treatment with women’s

soccer and softball.

Q: Did you play a sport in college?

A: I did not play a university sanctioned sport in college, but I was an intramural warrior!

Q: What drew you to Drake?

A: The factor that drew me to Drake was its reputation for having a strong athletics program as well as being a strong academic institution.

I knew that the type of athlete that I would be working with, by way of already being committed to Drake, would be driven and want to succeed.

I would also say the closeknit feel of the staff was another selling point for me.

Looking forward to working with the people you see every day is very important.

Q: Favorite thing to do on and off campus?

A: I haven’t really had a chance to do much on campus yet, but I am looking forward to experiencing that as soon as possible.

My favorite things to do outside of campus are to spend time with family and friends.

I love to stay active and workout, and I attempt to play a few instruments in my free time.

I also consider myself quite the “movie-guy” so I like to relax and watch movies as well.

Q: Why did you choose to work at the collegiate level?

A: Working at the college level is great because you are working with the type of athlete that knows what it takes to get to the next level.

They are willing to make sacrifices that most others would not in order to reach their goals.

As an athletic trainer, to get the chance to work with and help elite athletes reach their goals is one of the best things about the job, the college level provides that opportunity.

Q: What drew you to athletic training?

A: I knew that whatever profession I chose I wanted to be around people and to help people if I could.

The thing that drew me to athletic training the most was sustaining some injuries of my own while playing sports in high school.

I was exposed to an athletic trainer for the first time, and was able to build a really strong relationship with that person.

This sort of opened the door to me thinking this would be a great way to not only help people, but also to stay involved with sports and competition.

Q: What is your favorite injury to treat?

A: I really enjoy working with post-surgical cases.

While obviously, you would like to avoid any surgical cases on your teams, I really enjoy the challenge of starting the rehab process at day 1 and helping that person progress all the way back to the field/court and to doing what they love to do.

It’s a way to impact that person’s life in a very positive way.

Q: If you could work with another sport which would it be and why?

A: Basketball would be the sport I would pick. I have always been a huge basketball fan and I think it would be a blast to work with as well as get to watch basketball on a daily basis.

SPORTS

Sports

Oct. 7, 2020 | Page 6

The Lightning devastate Stars to claim Stanley Cup title

THE TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING DEFEAT THE DALLAS STARS 2-0 TO WIN THE STANLEY CUP. The Lightning have now claimed the title twice, and goalie Andrei Vasilevskiy earned a recognition for an impressive shutout in this playoff game. PHOTO COURTESY OF TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING TWITTER. Emily Godsey Contributing Writer emily.godsey@drake.edu

On Sept. 28 at 9:51 PM, the Tampa Bay Lightning official Twitter tweeted, “THIS IS OUR TIME. YOUR TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING ARE STANLEY CUP CHAMPIONS!!!!!” signifying the end of the Stanley Cup Finals, and the end of the Dallas Stars’ humbling attempt to overpower their contender.

In Game 5 of the finals, the Stars showed off their signature grit and were able to delay the inevitable.

They survived elimination by winning in double overtime, pushing the series to six games.

The Dallas Stars made a valiant effort to battle through Game 6 but fell short of tying the series and pushing their luck to a Game 7; Tampa Bay seemed to unreachable and

unbeatable.

The winning team miraculously cracked the Stars’ offensive strategies, denying every shot on goal and preventing any pushes from their opposers – but then again, Dallas didn’t seem to be putting in the necessary amount of energy, only managing eight shots on goal in the first two periods of the game.

The third period ended 2-0 after the Stars offense finally decided to wake up, managing 13 shots on goal in the last twenty minutes not only handing Tampa Bay the championship title, but giving their goalie, Andrei Vasilevskiy his first shutout in a playoff year during the Stanley Cup clinching game.

He joined 1991 Pittsburgh Penguins goalie Tom Barrasso as the only two to accomplish this feat.

Being the second time in Tampa Bay Lightning history that the team has

been named Stanley Cup Champions, the celebrations have understandably been unending.

In the past week, the Tampa Bay Lightning Twitter has attempted to properly portray the buzz and happiness present inside and outside of the champions locker room, showing numerous players spraying bottles of champagne, engulfing teammates in hugs, and clinging to the Stanley Cup as if it was the most important thing in the world (and to them, it just might be).

While the champions were celebrating, however, Dallas Stars’ forward Tyler Seguin admitted that the playoff life was difficult as the idea of COVID-19 loomed around every corner.

According to an article from TheScore, Seguin admitted, “…there’s nothing positive you’re going to take from the bubble life. It

definitely (stunk) and I think we’re all looking forward to seeing family and friends now.”

Seguin spoke about how the playoffs were obviously entertaining to be a part of and how being surrounded by teammates in Edmonton for so long was fun, but being away from home and being stuck in one city made “bubble life” the hardest time of Seguin’s life as a professional athlete.

The 2020 Stanley Cup Finals was a battle of skill, but also a battle of “who wants it the most?”

Neither team has had much luck in the finals and before this season, both teams had won one Stanley Cup Championship a piece.

The Tampa Bay Lightning has gotten close in seasons prior – losing to Chicago in 2015 in an eerily similar way to how they trumped Dallas; a 2-0 loss in Game 6.

The efforts of both teams

that don’t have the most successful history in the NHL begs the question of: who is next?

Will it be a top-ranking team or an underdog situation?

Perhaps the Montreal Canadiens will take the offseason to improve, grab a few draft picks, and come back sharper than ever for the 2021 playoffs.

Maybe the San Jose Sharks or the Arizona Coyotes will hoist their first Stanley Cup over their heads and celebrate like they’re the 2020 Tampa Bay Lightning.

Who knows? Maybe the Tampa Bay Lightning have a few more tricks up their sleeves; maybe we haven’t see the last of captain Steven Stamkos and Conn Smythe Trophy winner Victor Hedman.

But that’s the glory of hockey – it can be anyone’s game if they’re willing to work for it.

2020 NFL SEASON: THE BEST AND WORST TEAMS

Lia Reichmann Contributing Writer lia.reichmann@drake.edu

From major trades and movement in the offseason with players like Cam Newton and DeAndre Hopkins to games being played during a worldwide pandemic, this NFL season has been one of the most interesting in recent years.

Best Teams of 2020 The Kansas City Chiefs are the clear number one team.

They have a lot of continuity from their Championship winning team last year and although they have had injuries to some of their starters, that hasn’t slowed down their production.

Patrick Mahomes is proving that the $503 million contract was a smart investment by the Chiefs.

What solidified their status as the best team in the NFL right now was their dominating performance against the Baltimore Ravens last Monday night.

Mahomes had a four touchdown game and was 31 for 42 pass attempts for 385 yards.

When asked who was the best NFL team, Drake University first-year Jacob Vins said the Kansas City Chiefs.

“They have an outstanding quarterback that can throw, the fastest player in the NFL,

and Tyreek Hill is outstanding and can handle double man coverage,” Vins said.

Many football analysts thought that the Green Bay Packers would regress this season from a 13-3 record and a trip to the NFC Championship.

During the draft they controversially moved up and picked Utah State quarterback Jordan Love in the first round when many thought they would pick a wide receiver.

However, this decision has seemed to not have affected the team negatively and may have caused a spark in Aaron Rodgers.

The Packers beat the New Orleans Saints, albeit missing Michael Thomas who is one of the league’s best receivers, which have been one of the top teams in the league over the years.

There were concerns that there was not enough depth at the receiver position for the Packers, but after a quiet first two games Allen Lazard has started to cement the No. 2 receiver spot.

Lazard had six catches on eight targets for 149 yards and a touchdown. Although there are some things that can be desired from their defense, specifically against the run, when injured star linemen Kenny Clark comes back into the lineup their defense should improve.

Other teams that are definitely in the top 10 are the Seattle Seahawks, Buffalo

Bills, Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers.

The Seahawks have quarterback Russell Wilson playing like the MVP, a defense that is terrible and bleeding yards against opposing teams, and there have a litany of injuries.

Ironically everyone thought that the Bills defense would lead them to the playoffs, but instead it is quarterback Josh Allen who is playing very well.

The Ravens are still good even though they lost a disappointing game against the Chiefs.

Last season’s MVP Lamar Jackson struggled throwing the ball against the Chiefs going 15 for 28 with only 97 yards and a touchdown.

The Pittsburgh Steelers’ quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has had a slow start in the first few weeks, but that is understandable after suffering a seasonending elbow injury.

The defense is still good, shutting out Deshaun Watson and the Texans in the second half of their game and finishing with five sacks.

Worst Teams of 2020 The New York Giants aren’t the worst team in New York which some might say is an accomplishment.

Unfortunately for New York football fans, the Giants and Jets are both atrocious and painful to watch.

The only saving grace the Giants had was star running

back Saquon Barkley who unfortunately tore his ACL in a week 2 game against the Bears.

The Giants built their offense around Barkley so they really don’t have anything left and quarterback Daniel Jones is giving up turnovers every game increasing the scrutiny against him.

The Jets on the other hand might as well start the interviewing process for a new head coach as Adam Gase’s time has run out.

Gase is unimaginative and doesn’t seem respected by his own players.

Sam Darnold is playing badly and his career is being ruined by an injury-riddled team which lacks talent.

If the Washington Football Team thought by changing their name this season they would improve they were incredibly mistaken.

Quarterback Dwayne Haskins who played decent and showed some promise at the end of last season has had one too many mistakes this season.

One positive development is with defensive end Chase Young, who although has a groin injury and will miss week 4’s game against the Ravens, already has 2.5 sacks in three games.

“I think [the] Chiefs will win the superbowl and [the] Bears will at least make it to the second round [of the playoffs] and the MVP will be Travis Kelce,” said Drake

first-year Vince Carioti.

Traveis Kelce being this year’s MVP is a bold prediction because a tight end has never been awarded the MVP and the last nonquarterback mvp was running back Adrian Peterson in 2012.

But this is a very unusual season as it is happening in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic so you never know what might happen.

Many people thought professional sports weren’t going to be able to run, however the NFL has figured out a way to play safely with many precautions.

Carioti has not found these precautions to have affected the game.

“The enjoyment has not decreased since I always just watch at home with the boys,” Carioti said.

Some precautions include daily testing, players or team personnel being fined for engaging in conduct detrimental to the team like going to parties, limited to no fans in the stands and masks being required for everyone to wear.

Although 13 players and team personnel on the Tennessee Titans have tested positive for COVID-19 that doesn’t seem to be stopping future games.

Carioti thinks the “NFL will be okay” while Vins said he is “worried about it.”

COMMENTARY

Commentary

Oct. 7, 2020 | Page 7

Perspective: first presidential debate Caleb Lillquist Staff Writer caleb.lillquist@drake.edu

I have had more in depth debates and conversations during PlayStation party chats than the one I saw while watching the first presidential debate.

However, the disastrous debate did leave me feeling more confident in my own intelligence.

From the constant interruptions coming from both sides (but mainly from Trump), to the unnecessary and unprofessional personal attacks I can’t help but reiterate CNN Andrew Yang’s statement: “Last night, I feel like America lost.”

I would like to first touch on Fox News host and moderator of the debate, Chris Wallace.

Wallace faced criticism mere minutes after the debate concluded, ranging from attacks on his supposed bias to an inability to “control” the debate.

As to what bias conservatives are pointing to, I cannot comprehend, let alone find one moment from the debate that suggests bias on Wallace’s part. A great example of asking hard questions to the candidates would be the question regarding the condemning of white supremacy to Trump, and right after questioning Biden as to why he hasn’t used his leadership to express concern over the Portland, Oregon riots despite stating, “I am the Democratic Party.”

From talking to others and through my own observations,

there was absolutely no way Wallace could have controlled the debate better than he did that night, particularly when you have President Trump constantly on the attack and avoiding debate rules. Even Wallace called Trump out on his lack of conformity, asking him to please abide by his cult of a campaign team’s agreements.

One thing I will critique Wallace on is his constant questioning of Trump on the white supremacy comment compared to Biden’s Antifa comment. Where Wallace kept pressing Trump for an answer, Wallace let Biden’s “Antifa is just an idea” answer slide to his response to violence in dem-run cities. This happened again with Biden’s court-packing statement.

“The first debate was not a debate on policy, but instead, a debate showing the American people the importance of manners and one’s demeanor.”

Let’s hit on the highs and lows of each candidate.

Whether one agrees or not, both a strength and weakness to Trump’s performance last night was his constant interrupting. A strength because of how he was able to take control of the situation and debate. A weakness,

however, because he ended up coming off as unprofessional and unpolished compared to Biden, who took a rather lukewarm approach to the whole ordeal.

Trump’s major strength from his debate was bringing attention to farleft activist riots across the country, particularly those in progressive-run cities. Despite Wallace’s interjections of violence being equal in both Republican and Democrat-run cities, he drew attention away from that by saying he has seen more left violence than right.

Also, criticizing Biden over his lack of law enforcement support due to his “radical left voter base” was a smart move to show the progressive strings attached to the Biden campaign.

Predictably, Trump faced much criticism over his response when asked to condemn white supremacy.

It is a fact that Wallace has asked, “Do you condemn white supremacy and militia groups?” to which Trump responded with, “Sure.”

I agree, he could have answered more clearly without his “standby comment,” but he did condemn white supremacy, even if not in the clearest way.

The following day a brief press briefing was held in which he was asked if he denounces white supremacy again, and here he responds with, “I have always denounced any form, any form, any form of any of that you have to denounce.”

In regard to his standby comment, he said he meant

“stand by for law enforcement to do their jobs” during the protesting. For the record as well, it is a fact that he also condemned white supremacy in 2017 during the Charlottesville scenario, contrary to what some believe in which he stated, “I’m not talking about the neo-Nazis and the white nationalists because they should be condemned totally,” in the same press brief. According to factcheck.org, President Trump has condemned white supremacy multiple times throughout his time in office.

Regarding Biden, his major strengths of being able to keep calm while Trump berated him. Whether Trump thinks he can get away with his manner or not, this speaks volumes to voters who are wanting peace, not more dogmatic polarization. Trump represents that intolerant voter base impeccably well the other night.

Biden’s climate comments regarding California wildfires were a more definite answer than Trump’s.

Another highlight was Biden’s comment that “Most officers are good people. There are just a few bad apples,” which seemed to be directed at his moderate base. Yet the comment could have gotten so far when Trump used his “I want you to do the same as a law enforcement agency that supports you” interjection.

Ultimately, it was Biden’s composure and the way in which he spoke that inevitably led him to win the debate.

The first debate was not a debate on policy, but

instead, a debate showing the American people the importance of manners and one’s demeanor. Just today in class, we were talking about the various strategies and the point of “interrupting a candidate so they couldn’t speak” is actually a new tactic for the sole purpose to not allow the other candidate to have a clear and coherent message for a good campaign ad or something else. In class, it was talked about how this is a “new strategy,” so a candidate cannot articulate plans.

Yet at the same time, it doesn’t help that both of the candidates are terrible debaters, and it seems in this day and age, whoever is the most absurd and provocative on the debate stage will get the most clicks and views and, thus, have their message be projected.

In my humble opinion, though, Biden proved himself to the American people, particularly moderates, that he could potentially take the presidency from Trump. The president needs to rethink his tactics, or he could be the reason he loses in November.

Trump supporters should be worried, and Biden supporters should feel hopeful.

As there is speculation as to who won the debate, that is all up to public opinion.

An indisputable fact is that the American people lost that night and gained nothing from the so-called “leaders” of this country.

Michelle Buteau Review The Comedy Line Up’s bite-sized special on Netflix Zoe Treibitz Commentary Editor zoe.treibitz@drake.edu @ztreibitz

Michelle Buteau just turned forty and will not be wearing anything with buttons anymore. She makes that clear at the start of her bite-sized Netflix stand-up special, released 2018, the first in a series called The Comedy Lineup.

The special is about fifteen minutes in length but manages to cover a lot of content. After talking about a need for comfort as she ages when it comes to letting her “tig ol biddies” breathe, she also touches on the fact men should keep it in their pants, her “recent” marriage of over seven years ago, the full story of her engagement and how she reacted when her OBGYN told her he was a Trump supporter while in the middle of a “pap schmear.”

Buteau also spends time interacting with the audience for mixed results. The first time she spoke to a man in the audience created a funny moment as the audience member seemed to appreciate the joke, even at his expense.

It was a decidedly planned interaction, but it landed well and created a great wrap up for that part of her set on a strong note.

MICHELLE BUTEAU had been in doing comedy for more than a decade before getting this opportunity on Netflix doing stand-up , writing and podcasting. PHOTO COURTESY OF WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

The second attempt, however, seemed to fall flat as the joke was on a touchier topic. When the camera panned to the audience members that the joke targeted, dulled expressions showed they didn’t enjoy the moment. It made me cringe and ruined some momentum.

Her combination of pop culture references and crude

statements were funny but straightforward. Buteau’s best moments were when she had a chance to play up her character using her vocal and energy range. She plays off the crowd well to keep energy and laughs up in a fun way, even if the jokes don’t divert expectations in a particularly brilliant way.

There are, however, some

moments that seem to drag on without any great punchlines or surprises. In a short special like that, those can feel even longer.

Overall, it was definitely worth watching. This idea of short stand-up sets with easy accessibility is a great way to binge-watch or get some new and funny content into your busy day. I’d argue that

it’s more enjoyable than watching short clips because it provides a well-rounded compilation that only a planned set can provide.

With plenty of comics to choose from, even if Michelle Buteau’s loud and lewd style isn’t your cup of tea, someone surely will be.

Commentary Black Voices Column COMMENTARY

Oct. 7, 2020 | Page 8

Breonna Taylor and American Justice Barriers Michael Bell Column Lead michael.bell@drake.edu

On Sept. 22, a grand jury announced the charges against officer Brett Hankison, who was one of three officers involved in the murder of Breonna Taylor.

Hankison was charged with three counts of felony wanton endangerment after an investigation found that bullets discharged from his weapon entered the apartment of a pregnant woman who was the neighbor of Taylor. Hankison was the only officer charged in the incident, 194 days after Taylor’s death.

Breonna Taylor was shot six times while sleeping in her home. The no-knock warrant that led to Taylor’s death was for a man whom she didn’t live with. The officers who killed Taylor were in plain clothes. Breonna Taylor was sleeping.

History has shown that only in America is a Black person’s life worth less than the walls that housed her.

According to records studied by the New York Times, in the mid to late 1700s, slaves were sold for as little as $18, which is less than the cost of

the bullets that killed Taylor. $18 is less than the cost to repair the holes in the walls of Taylor’s home. Why these comparisons, you might ask? For Black Americans, justice has failed repeatedly.

These failures have caused generations of us to believe that in America, we’re still worth no more than we were in the 1700s. No more than the property that houses us.

“If I could right now, I’d make sure Breonna Taylor knew her worth before this nation’s systems deemed her life worthless.”

The property that housed Taylor received more justice than she has nearly 200 days after her murder. We’re no longer bought and sold as property in the nation, but the values of our lives haven’t appeared to change much. If you are a Black American, you are worth more than perhaps this country’s systems have made you feel. Breonna Taylor

MEMORIALS FOR BREONNA TAYLOR were created across the country in the wake of her death. PHOTO COURTSEY OF WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

was worth more than the leaders of these failed systems may ever acknowledge. We have been in an uphill battle for over 400 years. It doesn’t seem like our lives may ever matter in this nation, but they do. Embracing who we are is a necessary step in defining what we are worth. You are not merely a leftover from the dark past of this nation.

You are more than your experiences of oppression

and degradation.

If I could right now, I’d make sure Breonna Taylor knew her worth before this nation’s systems deemed her life worthless. If you are a partner in our march for racial justice, better policing tactics and equality under the law, remind your friends and families that this fight is not me against you. It’s us against the darkness of our societies and the realities of racism

and injustice that fulfill the wishes of those who carried our ancestors in chains and beat them with whips. We will not destroy our nation, cities, businesses and homes to show the powers that we are tired. We will continue to carry the torch of those that came before us as we protest, educate and elevate one another to use those barriers that were built against us as stepping stones for us.

Study product must-haves Kay Awonaike Contributing Writer kay.awonaike@drake.edu

I love stationery products– using them inspires me to work harder in my classes.

I am frequently asked questions like “Why do you care so much about pens, washi tape and highlighters?”

Creating designs on my assignments and notes makes me more likely to review my material and keeping up with the current YouTube study trends can make studying feel less mundane. I have tried many different products; here are a few of my favorite (and least favorite) ones.

Good pens are a necessity.

One of my favorites is the Pentel Energel with a 0.38mm tip. They are great for note taking and essay writing. The pen offers a smooth writing experience and dries immediately after you write on paper. The ink cartridges can be easily replaced by screwing off the handgrip portion of the pen.

I recommend using only Energel ink cartridges, which cost $1.99 each, because the quality will last longer.

I think Muji pens are overrated. The price for a pack of 3 is $6.99, which is equivalent to buying a pack of 5 of the Pilot G2 pens.

However, these pens have a firm grip that makes it easy to write with and avoid getting carpal tunnel or wrist pains.

There are also Pentel Fude Touch Brush pens. These pens have been rising in popularity. I love them simply because of the small tips.

When doing calligraphy, it can be hard to try to attempt this as a beginner like myself.

The tips are firm but also soft enough to glide across the page when you are writing.

They have a variety of colors and last for a long time.

Brush pens enhance the aesthetic of your notes, making your work something that you can enjoy looking at. Yes, these products can be a bit pricey. A pack of 12 cost $25.99, compared to Aquarell which comes in a

pack of 24 for $11.99. For stationery fiends the quality does matter in note taking or calligraphy work. The quality of ink and the numerous amounts of colors can explain the price tag. When it comes to stationery, I would instead go for quality rather than the cheap and inexpensive.

When it comes to paper, notebooks and binders, look no further than the full line of Kokuyo Campus products. These are my favorite stationery products of all time. The quality of the paper from competitors doesn’t even come close.

Kokuyo pages are stiff and waxy, which allows your pens to glide across the page. This Japanese brand knows that quality is important when you highlight or use sharpie markers; it doesn’t bleed through the paper.

5 notebooks cost around $15 on Amazon and the 500 sheets of loose leaf paper can cost around $17 to $20. I was kind of reluctant at first since they are so expensive, but the Kokuyo paper in the Sarasara

THE TIMES-DELPHIC The student newspaper for Drake University since 1884 RACHEL JAMES, Editor-in-Chief rachel.james@drake.edu JEFF INMAN, Faculty Advisor jeffrey.inman@drake.edu

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KOKOYU CAMPUS have lot of notebook options all made with high quality material . PHOTO COURTESY OF AMAZON

line is overall the best paper for note taking.

They also have a binder layout, one that is a folder, and one that is a notebook.

Both of these options work in different ways. I enjoy each of the forms since they allow the user to customize their style of organization.

Stationery can keep you engaged and inspired while you study. Making your notes visually pleasing and easy to read can make school all the more fulfilling.

The Times-Delphic is a student newspaper published weekly during the regular academic year and is produced by undergraduate students at Drake University. The opinions of staff editorials reflect the institutional opinion of the newspaper based on current staff opinions and the newspaper’s traditions. These opinions do not necessarily reflect those of individual employees of the paper, Drake University or members of the student body. All other opinions appearing throughout the paper are those of the author or artist named within the column or cartoon. The newsroom and business office of The Times-Delphic are located in Meredith Hall, Room 124. The Times-Delphic is a member of the Associated Collegiate Press. The editor-in-chief sits on the Board of Student Communications.

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Letters must include the author’s name and phone number. Unsigned letters will not be published. Deadlines for guest submissions are noon Sunday for the Wednesday edition. The Times-Delphic reserves the right to edit letters and submissions for space and in the interest of taste. Letters and submissions reflect only the opinions of the authors and should be limited to 250 words.

Emailed letters can be sent to rachel.james@drake.edu.

ADVERTISING POLICY

The Times-Delphic’s business office is located at 2507 University Avenue, 124 Meredith Hall, Des Moines, IA 50311. The Times-Delphic is published on Wednesdays during the university’s fall and spring academic terms. The newspaper is distributed for free around the Drake University campus. All advertising information is to be submitted noon Sunday for the Wednesday edition. Advertisements can be designed by The TimesDelphic or submitted via e-mail. We accept cash and check. A 10 percent discount is offered for prepayment on advertisements. The business office can be contacted at 515-271-2020.