October 30, 2018

OCTOBER 30 - NOVEMBER 5, 2018

FEATURES

UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA ANCHORAGE

SPORTS

PAGE 4

Hula Hands: An authentic Hawaiian experience

THENORTHERNLIGHT.ORG

PAGE 8

UAA athletes protest UIC gymnastics shut down

Chancellor announces changes in research administration

Alaska Federation of Natives Convention

By Marie Ries

news@thenorthernlight.org

UAA Chancellor Cathy Sandeen recently announced plans for the establishment of a task force for research along with other changes in research administration. Earlier in October, Interim Provost John Stalvey announced the appointment of George Kamberov as Interim Vice Provost for Research.‌ Even though UAA is a public university not primarily focused on research, Sandeen wants to consolidate support for research at the university.‌ “I am particularly drawn to UAA’s broad spectrum of basic, translational and applied research funded by a variety of sources,” Sandeen said in an email to the UAA community. “Though we are not classified as a research university per se, this vital work supports our mission as an engaged public university.”‌ Interim Vice Provost Kamberov, who holds a Ph.D. in mathematics from the University of Pennsylvania, joined UAA about five years ago. Previously, he served as associate research professor of computer science at the Stevens Institute of Technology in New Jersey.‌ In his new position as interim vice provost, Kamberov is overseeing the UAA Office of Research with exception of the graduate school. He believes that research is crucial to the success of the university.‌ “It’s part of the mission. If our mission is to achieve excellence, one of the best ways is to actually have well-grasped research,” Kamberov said.‌ Amer Chaudhry, UAA biological and natural sciences major, has been doing undergraduate research for about a year now. He is working on a research project with Eric Bortz, UAA professor for biological sciences. The research is focusing on reactivating a specific kind of cells to

thenorthernlight.org

PHOTO COURTESY OF UAA OFFICE OF RESEARCH

Raghu Srinivasan, mechanical engineering faculty, and Breton Henry, mechanical engineering graduate student, installing modular atmospheric corrosion test racks on top of ECB parking garage.

kill cancer cells.‌ “I found a professor that I like and I’ve always liked immunology,” Chaudhry said.‌ Chaudhry plans to go to medical school after getting his bachelor’s degree.

He appreciates the project as an opportunity to apply what he learns in class “in a realistic way.” Chaudhry will continue his research until his graduation and possibly even after that.‌ He thinks that the prioritization of research at UAA is going to be beneficial for all students.‌ “It’s a great opportunity to get involved in labs,” Chaudhry said. “Getting involved in research will be beneficial for students no matter [what degree they are in].”‌ Kamberov emphasizes the importance of students in research work. As a professor, he started teaching entrance level

facebook.com/tnlupdates

@tnl_updates

courses to begin working with students early in their college career.‌ “Very few researchers can do things by themselves,” Kamberov said. “We cannot survive without students.”‌ He does not only want students to work on projects of their professors but to “turn the table around” and have students bring in own ideas.‌ “Especially the Native students, the students who come from the villages often come with very interesting problems – very Alaska specific,” Kamberov said. “If you actually listen to them, you can make extremely interesting research projects.”‌ Projects unique to Alaska often have a good chance of being funded, according

PHOTO BY CHASE BURNETT

From Oct. 18 - 20 this year, the convention featured artists and exhibitors showcasing Native Arts.

By Chase Burnett

features2@thenorthernlight.org

The Alaska Federation of Natives is the largest statewide Native organization in Alaska. Members include 186 federally recognized tribes, 177 village corporations, 12 regional corporations and 12 nonprofit and tribal consortiums. The federation advocates for the Alaska Native people and promotes an understanding of the economic needs of Alaska Natives.‌ The AFN was founded in 1966, eight years after Alaska claimed its statehood.

It was the first statewide group organized to advocate for Native land claims. In addition to achieving a united stand

SEE RESEARCH

PAGE 2

@tnl_updates

youtube.com/tnlnews

SEE CONVENTION

PAGE 5

soundcloud.com/tnlnews

NEWS

THENORTHERNLIGHT.ORG TUESDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2018

02

Green Fee forum heads towards a sustainable future

By Marie Ries

news@thenorthernlight.org

The UAA Green Fee Board hosted an open forum informing students about its newest project in the Student Union Den on Oct. 24. Students were invited to share their own sustainable ideas in discussion with the members of the board.‌ All students enrolled at UAA pay $3 for the Green Fee per semester. The fee was first introduced in 2011. Since then, it has supported a number of

projects fostering sustainability on campus.‌ Michaela Keller-Miller, junior accounting major, is one of the students serving on the board. She thinks that the Green Fee projects are benefiting the university.‌ “[As] climate change is growing, the Green Fee helps to take UAA a step in the right direction to solve the issue,” KellerMiller said.‌ Past projects include the installation of hydration stations, water filters and the recently installed hydroponics cabinet in the

Student Union. ‌ Hydroponics is a method of growing plants without soil in a water-based and nutrient-rich solution.

Some of the greens grown in the unit in the Student Union have already been served to UAA students in events put on by the Green Fee Board.‌ Economics major Heather Jesse has been on the board for three years now and served as the board’s chair last year.

With the public forum, the board wanted to learn more about student perspectives on specific ideas

and to raise awareness about their work.‌ “A lot of students don’t know who we are, and that’s a really unfortunate thing because I think that we have a lot to offer to students,” Jesse said.‌ All UAA students paying the fee are eligible to submit applications for Green Fee funds. The board decides which sustainable projects will be funded. Ideas furthering “social responsibility, economic pragmatism and environmental wisdom” have the best chance of receiving grants, according

to the board’s website.‌ Keller-Miller also emphasized the importance of student input for the Green Fee projects.‌ “We want students to have a say in the projects that their Green Fee is helping to fund,” KellerMiller said.‌ The board is currently working on the installation of 21 new solar panels on the Administrative and Humanities Building in addition to the nine panels that were installed last year.‌ The board meets every Friday at 12 p.m. in the

Student Union. It is currently searching for more members as only four of a potential maximum of seven seats are taken.‌ Students interested in serving on the Green Fee Board can reach out to USUAA President Geser Bat-Erdene (usuaa.president@alaska.edu).

The form for project proposals can be accessed via uaa. alaska.edu or the Green Fee Board’s Facebook page fb.com/uaagreenfee.‌‌‌

RESEARCH: UAA establishes task force for research Continued from cover to Kamberov.‌ “Because it’s a great story – and people like to hear great stories,” Kamberov said. “There is so little we know, there is so little we understand and Alaska is changing so much faster than the rest of the globe. . . it’s an incredibly interesting environment to work in.”‌ Sandeen plans to build the task force in cooperation with different UAA governance groups, deans and directors.‌ “It is imperative that we have a robust and responsive research

administration unit. But we need to answer some fundamental questions in order to accomplish that,” Sandeen said in the email.‌ Research at UAA has been growing steadily in the past few years. The external funding for research increased by 23 percent since 2013; total grant awards grew from $38 million in the fiscal year 2015 to $40.2 million in 2016.‌ Kamberov supports the decision to form a task force for research administration considering the growth of the UAA research programs.‌

“Sometimes you grow very fast . . . and it’s good to actually step back and have somebody else look and say well look this is what you need to do and that’s the goal of the task force,” Kamberov said.‌ Kamberov will be cooperating with the Honors College on future projects. He plans to spend the remaining weeks of the fall semester working on more research opportunities for students.‌ Students can find more information about research at UAA under uaa.alaska.edu/research.‌

PHOTO COURTESY OF UAA OFFICE OF RESEARCH

A natural sciences student working with Professor Nathaniel Hicks on her research project in the UAA plasma lab.

FEATURES 03 Suit-up and dress for success THENORTHERNLIGHT.ORG TUESDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2018

By Malia Barto

arts@thenorthernlight.org

JCPenney and UAA are teaming up to help students and alumni find their next professional outfit for a discounted price.‌ The Suit-Up Event is a national event put on by JCPenney that started out at Oklahoma University and now has spread to 100 other universities. The goal of the event is to provide students with professional clothing they can wear to their next interview or job without worrying too much about the cost.‌ On Sunday, Nov. 4, from 6 to 9 p.m., UAA students will get to shop the afterhours at JCPenney and receive 40 percent off of dress apparel including suits, dresses, dress pants, sports coats and shoes. Recent UAA alumni, those who have graduated between the years of 2015 to 2018, are also invited to shop. This is the first time UAA will be a part of the nation-wide JCPenney event.‌ “If we meet the goal of 150 UAA stu-

dents [and] alumni attending this year, we hope we can continue this great opportunity,” Danica Bryant, employer relations specialist for UAA Career Exploration Services and the main coordinator of this event, said. ‌ The event is a collaborative effort from UAA Career Exploration Services, Alumni Relations, University Advancement and Seawolf Athletics.‌ “We want to give a special thank you to Carrie Osgood, general manager of

our local JCPenney, and Jeni Taylor from UAA School of Allied Health for starting the conversation about [the event] for UAA,” Bryant said.‌ Sephora will offer free mini-makeovers and the hair salon will provide free hair consultations and haircare for those who wish to get their headshots taken by a professional at the event. The headshot prices start at $29.99.‌ “This is a really great thing JCPenney has offered to do,” Chelsea Avichayil,

outreach specialist for Alumni Relations, said. “There are JCPenney and Sephora staff, as well as volunteers who are there just for UAA students and recent grads, and I think that is just awesome.”‌ Volunteers and staff are there to make the shoppers’ experience more personalized. UAA staff and faculty can volunteer for the night and receive a 40 percent off coupon to use after for volunteering.

To volunteer, sign up at https://goo.gl/ forms/0F2p5ipwQGWBz8Rn2. ‌ If interested in attending and shopping the event, registration must be done at https://app.joinhandshake.com/events before midnight on Saturday, Nov. 3. ‌ Current UAA students can sign into Handshake with their UAA email and password, the same information as their Blackboard and UAOnline accounts.

Alumni can register for an account by using their personal email address.‌ JCPenney is located inside the 5th Avenue Mall, 406 W 5th Ave. Parking can be found at the JCPenney Parking Garage for $1.50 per hour. Street parking is free.‌

FUSION provides new community involvement opportunities

By Caleigh Jensen arts2@thenorthernlight.org

UAA’s community service program “For Unity and Service in Our Neighborhoods,” better known as FUSION, has recently gone through some changes in order to provide more volunteer opportunities for students.

The FUSION program aims to enhance the college experience and help improve the Anchorage community through volunteering.‌ The program initially scheduled a volunteer week in fall semesters and two days in the spring. However, a recent partnership with Fairview Elementary created a need for volunteers on a continuous basis, inspiring FUSION to open up

more opportunities throughout the school year.‌ At Fairview, volunteers assist teachers in their after-school program by aiding a classroom of around 12 students with homework, math or robotics.‌ Whitney Penn, new student transition advisor and orientation coordinator, says this opportunity comes with many benefits for volunteers.‌ “Quite a few students who are volunteering are education students,” Penn said. “It helps them get the experience and the exposure working in a classroom setting.”‌ For William Sizelove, a junior majoring in mechanical engineering, volunteering at Fairview is a productive use of his free time and a break from the stresses of college.‌

“I like the time to stop thinking about my classes for a little while,” Sizelove said. “It’s gone really well so far… Math and coding is something I’m interested in helping [the students] learn.”‌ The Fairview volunteer events also come with benefits to the elementary students that reach beyond help with homework.‌ “The earlier that you bring the idea of going to college to students… they start thinking of college as a good example and a cool thing to do,” Penn said. “The college student can share similar experience with them… and be a role model and show that they can push past any struggles.” ‌ The after-school program takes place every Monday,

PHOTO COURTESY OF WHITNEY PENN

Fusion volunteers donate their time to the Food Bank of Alaska.

Wednesday and Thursday until Dec. 17 with the exception of Thanksgiving week. Session one, math, is from 4 - 4:45 p.m. and session two, robotics, will begin right after from 4:45 - 5:30 p.m. ‌ To sign up for the Fairview Elementary volunteer event or any other FUSION opportunity,

visit the FUSION page on the UAA’s website and fill out the volunteer registration form. Any student at UAA can volunteer for one or both sessions for selected dates or on a regular basis. No teaching experience is needed.

Steve Konkel presents Alaska Decision Making 2018

By Chase Burnett

features2@thenorthernlight.org

PHOTO BY CHASE BURNETT

Dr. Steve Konkel teaches Negotiation and Conflict Resolution in the College of Business and Public Policy at UAA. He’s published a statewide inventory and economic assessment of wind generation as well as studies of the impact of climate change in Alaska’s NW Arctic Borough. ‌ Konkel holds a bachelor’s degree in architectural engineering from University of Colorado, a master’s degree in city planning from Harvard and a doctorate in environmental policy and conflict resolution from MIT.‌ Konkel presented Alaska Decision Making 2018:

Research, Analysis and Politics at the UAA bookstore on Oct. 24.‌ “I served as a legislative aide for the House Special Committee on Energy in the 29th Alaska State Legislature in 2016.

I had a lot of lessons that I learned there,” Konkel said.‌ Konkel’s presentation of climate change and conservation in Alaska is backed by the state’s history and its origins.‌ “You can’t really understand Alaska without understanding the territorial days,” Konkel said. ‌ Alaska’s resources belong to the people and should be utilized to the maximum benefit of the people, he said. However, Konkel believes Alaskan residents have a great re-

sponsibility to make sure the resources are managed in perpetuity.‌ He is an advocate for an energy policy and points to Alaska’s reliance almost entirely on oil as problematic. Konkel drew parallels between CEO’s of oil companies and their relationship to their stockholders compared to leadership in Alaska. ‌ “I’m the CEO of the state of Alaska, and you’re not ripping me off. I’m doing what’s best for the Alaskan people, and I’m not going to apologize for that. Exxon Mobile doesn’t apologize that they have stockholders they have to get the best return for,” he explained in an analogy.‌ Konkel has seen firsthand how a non-collaborative effort can be detri-

mental for the well-being of the people.‌ “I think that not having any interest in bipartisan solutions is very destructive for getting the best overall budget,” he said. ‌ He also pointed to legislatures’ attitude towards alternative energy. The legislature sees alternative energy as an expense and something that costs money rather than an investment that will prove lucrative as time goes on. ‌ The matter of alternative energy, budget and decision making in Alaska is complicated; however, it’s not insurmountable.

Konkel advocates for a civically engaged community that is informed on the issues and where their representatives stand on those issues.

04

FEATURES

‘Ono grinds! Hula Hands: Anchorage’s favorite Hawaiian joint

By Joey Carreon

news2@thenorthernlight.org

In Hawaii, hearing someone mention “‘ono grinds” is music to the ears of a local as it probably means some good eats are nearby. “‘Ono” means delicious and “grinds” means food in Hawaiian slang. ‌ With two locations on Fireweed Lane and Mountain View Drive, Hula Hands is dishing out delicious Hawaiian barbecue that won’t force you to rack up frequent flyer miles.‌ Opened by Hawaii native, Bill Hoopai, Hula Hands provides an authentic, island experience to the patrons of West Anchorage and Mountain View: two of the more diverse parts of town. However, Hula Hands has become a favorite of Anchorage residents regardless of cultural background. ‌ Good food is a universal language that people of all cultures understand, and Hula Hands is extremely fluent. ‌ While the location on Mountain View Drive is the original location, the one I frequent nearly twice a week is the location on Fireweed Lane; both locations are, for all intents and purposes, the same on the outside and inside.‌ On the outside, Hula Hands on Fireweed Lane is humble, quaint and unapologetically itself, a characteristic most buildings on this side of town seem to have. ‌ The inside has its charm as well. Soft, island music tickles the ears upon entry as the commanding smell of grilling meat penetrates the nose. ‌ Words do not do Hula Hands justice when describing the atmosphere; everything from the back door being open to let out smoke from the grill, to the bathroom signs with surfer dudes and hula gals, to the “Whatchu’ wan’ order?” I am greeted with warmly upon settling in. All of it feels like home. ‌ Hula Hands isn’t fancy. It isn’t meant to be. But Hula Hands’ cultural nuances are as rich as they come. ‌ Hula Hands’ menu features several island favorites: spam musubi (spam over rice wrapped in seaweed), saimin (noodle soup) and loco moco (fried eggs, gravy and a hamburger patty over rice). All of

PHOTOS BY JOEY CARREON

Kalua pig, steamed rice and grilled pulehu chicken thighs.

these options are absolutely delicious — I have had them all. However, Hula Hands’ plate-lunch menu is the real prize here.‌ Being a Hawaiian barbecue restaurant, Hula Hands features several items that one could find at a luau as options for their plate-lunches. ‌ On the plate-lunch menu, Hula Hands offers different combos: iki (mini), waena (regular), nui (super), nuunui (mega) and halala (super mega). With each combo

size, you are given the choice to choose from a list of entrees featuring the likes of kalua pig, pulehu chicken and more. Each combo is served with varying amounts of scoops of rice and their famous macaroni salad. ‌ The iki ($10.25) and waena ($12.50) combos are easily the most popular choices here as the portion sizes are already very generous.‌ Here are some of my favorite entree

items that are available to choose from:‌ Pulehu chicken: grilled, marinated chicken thighs. The marinade is sweet, similar to teriyaki, but more savory. They are grilled to perfection as, oftentimes, each piece will have charred bits that add to the taste of the already juicy, umami chicken thighs. These are easily my favorite item.‌ * Kalua pig: a luau staple. At Hula Hands, they roast their kalua pig portions in-house. Kalua pig is similar to pulled pork except it is packed with deep, smoky flavor, while retaining all of the juiciness from the pork fat that has rendered out during the cooking process. This is a must-try for newcomers to Hawaiian cuisine.‌ Chicken katsu: A Japanese favorite turned Hawaiian favorite; they are deepfried chicken cutlets breaded in panko breadcrumbs. The panko breadcrumbs are light, so they offer a crispy bite that works perfectly in tandem with the juicy cutlet inside. Accompanied with the katsu is katsu sauce: a Japanese sauce that is delightfully tangy, the perfect compliment to cut through the deep-fried chicken.‌ Teriyaki beef: the name is self-explanatory! These are grilled strips of beef that have been marinated in a sweet, savory teriyaki sauce.‌ For those who would like to see the rest of their menu, it is available on their website.‌ The staff at Hula Hands are delightful as well. Whether you are a regular or first-timer, all patrons at Hula Hands are treated like family.‌ I have introduced many of my friends to Hula Hands, perhaps since I love it so much that I take personal pride in the restaurant. There has not been a single instance where one of those friends did not rank Hula Hands on their list of favorite, local restaurants. ‌ Hula Hands’ food is simple to its core; it plays on the primal, human instinct to consume delicious, mouthwatering food as it is served it to you on a plastic plate beside a bed of rice. ‌ Whether one chooses the location on Fireweed Lane or Mountain View Drive, Hula Hands provides an atmosphere whose comfort is only matched by its food.

FEATURES

05

CONVENTION: AFN encourages ‘Innovation in the Past, Present and Future’ Continued from cover regarding land claims, the meeting was important in identifying Natives as a significant political force, according to the Native Federation website.‌ From Oct. 18 - 20 this year, the AFN held their annual convention in Anchorage. The convention serves as the “principal forum and voice for the Alaska Native community in addressing critical issues of public policy and government,” according to the Native Federation website.‌ The accompanying trade show features artists and exhibitors showcasing Native Arts.

More than 6,000 delegates, participants, observers, vendors and visitors attend annually, accounting for an estimated economic impact on Anchorage of more than $6 million, according to the Native Federation website.‌ Alaska Native and American Indian artwork are showcased to promote the artists themselves and celebrate the unique art forms and cultures. Cultural performances take place during the convention, known as Quyana Alaska. The conference theme this year was “Innovation in the Past, Present and Future.”‌ Throughout the convention, delegates discuss opportunities and challenges facing the community and discuss reports from political leaders. The convention is the largest representative annual gathering in the United States of Native peoples.

PHOTOS BY CHASE BURNETT

& AE

THENORTHERNLIGHT.ORG TUESDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2018

06

Hello Halloween: What to do this spooky season Alaska Zoo and visit your favorite animals‌ When: 4 - 8 p.m. Last entry at 7:30 p.m.‌ Where: The Alaska Zoo (4731 O’Malley Rd)‌ Cost: Before the event, it’s $9 for non-Zoo members, $7 for Zoo members. $10 for day of event for ages 3 and up.‌ GRAPHIC BY JIAN BAUTISTA

By Malia Barto

arts@thenorthernlight.org

There’s plenty to do this season whether it’s trick-or-treating or getting the best costume together for a contest. Here are events happening on Halloween throughout Anchorage on Oct. 31.‌ “Zoo Boo on Halloween”‌ What: Trick-or-treat at the

“Halloween Dance Party at Williwaw Social”‌ ‌ What: Dress up and dance at Williwaw for this dance party and costume contest. This event is 21 and over only.

When: 9 p.m. - 1:30 a.m.‌ Where: Williwaw Social (609 F St)‌ Cost: Free admission‌ “Malloween”‌ What: If it’s too cold outside to trick-or-treat, stay inside

and trick-or-treat in the Dimond Center Mall. Proceeds from the event go to benefit the Red Cross of Alaska.‌ When: 6 - 8 p.m.‌ Where: Dimond Center Mall (800 E Dimond Blvd)‌ Cost: $5, and tickets can be purchased at cvent.com‌ “Halloween at the Museum”‌ What: Put together a costume and head to the museum for a day of trick-or-treating, planetarium showings and more‌ When: 3 - 6 p.m.‌ Where: Anchorage Museum at Rasmusen Center (121 West Seventh Ave)‌ Cost: $18 for general admission adult, $15 Alaska resident, $12 seniors, military, students, $9 children ages 3-12. Planetarium showings extra.‌

“Haunted Halloween Dinner & Food Truck”‌ What: Seawolves can grab something to eat at this “creepy event” hosted by Seawolf Dining with food from Yeti Dog Food Truck‌ When: 4:30 - 7:30 p.m.‌ Where: Creekside Eatery‌ Cost: Meal-plan students can check in at the desk for a coupon, and non-meal-plan students can purchase food from the food truck‌ “’Beetlejuice’ 30th Anniversary Presentations”‌ What: Fitting for Halloween, catch a showing of “Beetlejuice” at Bear Tooth‌ When: 8 p.m.‌ Where: Bear Tooth Theatrepub, (1230 W 27th Ave)‌ Cost: General movie admission $4. Food for purchase.‌

“Hello Gourd-eous Pumpkin Carving”‌ What: On-campus-living students, you don’t have you leave campus to join in on the festivities. UAA On-Campus Living Community will host a pumpkin carving night in the Commons.‌ When: 6 - 9 p.m.‌ Where: Commons Room 107‌ Cost: Free‌ “HallowREAD”‌ What: Readings by local authors and performers of spooky stories and literature‌ When: 5 - 7 p.m. for kidfriendly version, 7:30 - 9 p.m. for scarier tales‌ Where: The Writer’s Block Bookstore & Cafe (3956 Spenard Rd)‌ Cost: Free

SPORTS

THENORTHERNLIGHT.ORG TUESDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2018

07

Five-year-old James Ludwig joins the men’s basketball team

By Emily Medina

sports2@thenorthernlight.org

The UAA men’s basketball team finally revealed their newest member on Wednesday, Oct. 23 to a press conference held at the Alaska Airlines Center. Their newest recruit, James Ludwig, was paired with them through an organization called Team IMPACT.‌ Team IMPACT is a national nonprofit that connects children, ages 5 - 16, with serious or chronic illness with local college athletic teams. The men’s basketball team at UAA was approached by Team IMPACT this past summer and will be the first team from Alaska to partner with them. ‌ Since it was founded in 2011, Team IMPACT has joined over 1,600 children to athletic teams at 500 colleges all over the Unit-

ed States. ‌ The program’s goal is that each child will gain a new sense of belonging as well as improvements in their confidence and optimism. In return, the student athletes will become a new part of the child’s support system.‌ James Ludwig is 5-years-old and from Eagle River. He’s also battling epilepsy. Amidst the crowded press room, he was joined at the event with his mother, Michelle; brother, Nathan; sister, Lily; and service dog, Blitzen.‌ “We were very excited when we got Team IMPACT’s call,” said Michelle Ludwig. “It gives our family support and relationship building, which, being a special-needs family, you’re a little isolated.

So having this opportunity for everyone in our family, and especially James, is really great.”‌

Head coach for the last 14 years, Rusty Osborne, is excited for the new addition to the team.‌ “I hope that our team can learn as much from James as he learns from us,” said Osborne. “In addition, we hope James will see improvements in his confidence and optimism as well as experience a sense of belonging to a group.”‌ During the drafting ceremony, Ludwig received his very own UAA jersey after signing his official letter of intent. With the same responsibilities as the other members of the men’s basketball team, Ludwig is expected to be at all of the practices, games, team dinners and more.‌ Aside from working with Team IMPACT, the men’s basketball team has done a wide range of other volunteer work.‌ “Our team has been

involved in a wide range of service partnerships, including the Anchorage School District, Providence Children’s Hospital, local assisted living facilities, Special Olympics Alaska and the YMCA,” said Osborne. “The opportunity to team up with Team IMPACT was an easy decision. We proposed the opportunity to our team members and they enthusiastically jumped at [it].”‌ Although basketball season has just started, Ludwig has made his spot on the team roster for the next two seasons.‌ With that being said, there are still over 1,200 college teams that are still awaiting the chance to be matched with a courageous child battling an illness. For more information about Team IMPACT, be sure to check out their website goteamimpact. org.

PHOTO COURTESY OF UAA ATHLETICS

Men’s basketball head coach, George Osborne, with newest recruit, James Ludwig, at his official draft day ceremony

08

SPORTS

Meet the 2018 Seawolf Hall of Fame inductees: Madrid and Arts

By Lauren Cuddihy sports@thenorthernlight.org

The Seawolf Hall of Fame is an exclusive and privileged group of people that have shown exemplary athletic achievement during their collegiate careers at UAA or have made a significant contribution to the UAA athletic Department. ‌ Started in 2001 by former athletic director Dr. Steve Cobb, there are now 56 members in recognition. In order to be eligible, athletes must be nominated 10 years following their last competition at UAA, whereas staff and faculty are eligible for nomination just five years after their contribution. ‌ On Oct. 21, the two most recent nominees were inducted into the Hall of Fame.

Carl Arts, former member of UAA men’s basketball team and current UAA assistant professor in the Department of Health and Physical Education, was inducted due to his performances in 200408. Michael Madrid, a sprinter on the men’s outdoor track and field team, was nominated for his time at UAA during 2005-08. ‌ Madrid came to UAA to compete collegiately after an already fruitful high school career at East High School. ‌ In his time there, he was the state champion in the 200-meter dash in 2003 and the 100-meter dash in 2004; however, he never initially intended to start running for the Seawolves. ‌ “My cousin told me he had heard UAA had a track team. I was already enrolled in classes and decided to inquire about the team,” Madrid said. “[I] met with Coach Friess and told him I was the Alaska state champion for the 100-meter dash the previous year. Then I walked on and by years end had earned a scholarship.” ‌ In just his first year, he earned 100and 200-meter dash All-Conference honors. ‌ He continued on to progress rapidly over his four seasons with the Seawolves in order to finish with many notable recognitions and awards. ‌ In both 2007 and 2008, he was the win-

ner of both the 100-meter and 200-meter dash at the Great Northwest Athletic Conference Championships. After his wins in 2008, he was awarded GNAC Championships Men’s Most Outstanding Performer. ‌ Prior to his GNAC recognition, in 2007 he was among 10 track and field athletes that was named to the ESPN The Magazine All-Academic District VIII College Division First Team. ‌ Other than his success, Madrid made some other memories in his time at UAA.‌ “My best memories include traveling for competition, hanging with my teammates and watching the program grow over the course of my four year career,” Madrid said. ‌ Madrid also noted that his final conference championship was one of his greatest memories, that being the very last time he ever raced. He has now moved on to become successful in other ways. ‌ “Currently I am living in Las Vegas. I own and successfully operate a modeling agency. We’ve been growing and becoming more and more successful over the last three years,” Madrid said. ‌ As his dedication and success has carried him through a variety of sports and jobs, Madrid stated that making the best of all his abilities as a student-athlete is what helped him excel. ‌ If Madrid were able to, he would give some advice to current student-athletes. ‌ “Take advantage of the opportunity and make s--- happen. As student athletes, these individuals have a chance to test themselves and develop qualities that can translate into success after their time at UAA,” Madrid said. ‌ Similarly, Arts’ would suggest advice as well. ‌ “I would [say to do the] right things consistently. Everyone knows what it takes to be great. It’s whether or not you decide to take the necessary steps day in and day out to reach that level,” Arts said.‌ Also from Alaska, Arts came to UAA after a successful career at UAA. He was named 2003-04 Alaska 3A Player of the Year after leading Valdez High to a 28-0 record. He transitioned to the Seawolves

PHOTO COURTESY OF UAA MEDIA RELATIONS

PHOTO COURTESY OF MICHAEL DINNEEN

Michael Madrid

Carl Arts

because he believed the program would help him become even more successful. ‌ “I was led to UAA because it was close to home and more importantly they were invested in doing the right things. It made for an easy choice,” Arts said. ‌ After his four seasons at UAA, Arts finished within the top 20 in 18 different statistical categories in Seawolf history at the time. At the top of that, he finished as the No. 3 all-time scorer and rebounder. ‌ A majority of his success came during his final season, one that Arts remembers well. ‌ “I would have to say my entire 07-08 season was my best memory, where we went all the way to the final four of Division II basketball,” Arts said. ‌ During that season, he was named to all-tournament teams at NCAA West Regional and Carrs/Safeway Great Alaska Shootout, as well as earning three GNAC Player of the Week awards and was voted Team MVP.‌

As he accumulated success, he also learned many valuable lessons. ‌ “There are many life lessons that basketball teaches us, but the most significant life lesson I learned is to never except excuses,” Arts said. ‌ Although Arts is now a professor at UAA, he didn’t initially give up basketball. Immediately following his collegiate season, Arts traveled around world playing professional basketball. ‌ “I played two seasons of semi-pro basketball overseas. My first season was in Melbourne, Australia where I played for the Southern Peninsula Sharks,” Arts said. “After that I played in Germany for the Langan Giraffes.” ‌ Despite retiring from professional basketball, Arts added that he still plays recreational basketball for fun. ‌ For more information on the Seawolf Hall of Fame, visit www.goseawolves. com. ‌‌

UAA gymnastics makes efforts to save athletic program

GRAPHIC BY JIAN BAUTISTA

By Emily Medina

sports2@thenorthernlight.org

The University of Illinois at Chicago announced that they shutting down their men and women’s gymnastics teams after the upcoming 2018-19 season. In do-

ing so, it will drop the number of Division I gymnastics programs down to 15. ‌ To put that into perspective, there were 179 Division I gymnastics programs in 1981. However, it’s not just a college level issue because research from Illinois High School Association shows that high school gymnastics programs are being cut just as frequently. ‌ According to the University of Illinois at Chicago’s chancellor, Michael Amiridis, the decision was made due to the rapidly rising costs needed to operate varsity athletic teams. ‌ This decision will affect the 11 female athletes and 25 male athletes who had eligibility to continue their college career. The school’s athletic director, Garrett Klassy, also voiced his distress in the school’s statement.‌ “This is the most difficult decision I have had to make in my career as an athletic administrator,” Klassy said in a statement to the Chicago Tribune. “I know that it impacts many people who

have invested much of their lives into UIC gymnastics and our entire athletic department. However, this was a move toward progress that needed to be taken.”‌ Once the upcoming season is over, the University of Illinois at Chicago agreed to transfer the affected students to any other school while honoring any and all of their scholarships.‌ In protest over the recent decision, the UAA gymnastics team sent out their own letters in the middle of October in an effort to do their part in saving the gymnastics program at the University of Illinois at Chicago.‌ Comparatively, our very own UAA has had their own share of athletic teams on the brink of extinction. For example, some may remember the fall semester of 2016 when there was an effort to get rid of both the men and women’s ski teams as well as the men and women’s indoor track and field teams.‌ Head ski coach for 11 years, Sparky Anderson, remembers it well. As noble

as it appears to be, there’s also a lot more than just letter-writing that goes in to saving a college athletic program.‌ “We actually banded together with UAF,” said Anderson. “We had our own Facebook page, we had our own website, we were circling petitions, we had people working on our behalf at the legislative level and we also encouraged everybody to contact the Board of Regents. The Board of Regents said that they received more correspondence on the ski team issue than any other issue that they’ve dealt with for as long as they could remember.”‌ UAA’s efforts to save both the ski and indoor track and field teams have prevailed. The ski teams have their first match of the season next month in Fairbanks as they participate in the Alaska Cup. Both indoor track and field teams, on the other hand, have their first preview race after the new year starts on Jan. 12 in Seattle.‌ For all things seawolf athletics be sure to check out goseawolves.com

OPINION

THENORTHERNLIGHT.ORG TUESDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2018

09

Vote ‘no’ on Ballot Measure Ballot Measure 1 1 is a no-brainer

By Ben Edwards

opinion2@thenorthernlight.org

Ballot Measure 1 is a solution without a problem. The State of Alaska already has a compilation of regulations that are based on science rather than politics. Our current permitting process for projects on bodies of water is acutely effective for protecting our fish habitats. Additionally, that process is familiar and workable for Alaskans at all levels, from the individual landowner to the resource developer.

Ballot Measure 1 will upset this efficient system by introducing a new barrage of complex regulations. If it passes, Alaskans will be forced to sacrifice key elements in the advancement of our economy and the welfare of our rural residents.

UAA students must recognize this hazard and vote no on Ballot Measure 1 on Nov. 6.

Opponents of Ballot Measure 1 are not anti-salmon. We absolutely recognize the importance of sustainable access to waterways for fish, as well as the robust protection of fish habitats. To suggest that we want to destabilize fish resources in the pursuit of irresponsible corporate profits is disingenuous. I recognize that the advocates for this new regulation, Stand for Salmon, have honest intentions.

But their proposal induces hardship on more than just big, corporate developers. It also bogs down small-scale projects that individuals or their communities might need to construct on a body of water. Such a project can be as small as a private dock, river crossing or a small suction dredge. Our great Native Corporations like Doyon Limited and Sealaska have urged a no vote as well, as they recognize how these new regulations will infringe on the welfare of their people.

Ballot Measure 1 divides the regulatory process between minor permits and major permits. Both are problematic.

Even with the minor permitting process, Alaskans will be forced to pursue an expensive and lengthy engagement with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. It doesn’t matter if it’s an individual landowner trying to build a dock or a native community who has known how to use the land for generations. All will be required to jump through hoops to get their project approved. The Stand for Salmon campaign claims that minor permits will be processed quickly by ADF&G. But the government never does things quickly.

With tens of thousands of existing waterways in Alaska, minor permit applications will collect dust on the overworked commissioner’s desk. ADF&G will have to dispatch an employee to verify that the body of water is not a fish habitat, which could take months to arrange if the project is in rural Alaska. Meanwhile, Alaskans are deprived of the means to improve their property and their livelihoods.

Individual Alaskans and rural communities can also get caught up in a major permit process, which will be significantly more difficult to acquire than a mi-

nor permit. Projects such as a culvert installation or a riverside bank restoration are all likely to require a major permit.

If the individual or community does not have an army of lawyers and a mountain of cash on hand, then they can kiss their project goodbye. This could seriously affect the rural villages that need to address erosion and flooding challenges in a timely fashion.

Ballot Measure 1 also imposes hardship on companies by stalling or preventing their development projects with unfamiliar and vague regulations. It is tempting to demonize companies, but we should understand that they are the engines of our economy. They put paychecks in the wallets of Alaskan workers and tax revenue in the coffers of our state.

The state already holds them accountable for environmental responsibility with the current regulatory framework.

What these companies ask for in return is consistency in that framework.

The private sector invests time and effort trying to get all its ducks in a row, achieving regulatory expectations, reporting information to the state and adapting its business model to Alaska’s unique environment. Now Ballot Measure 1 is going to flip the table on those companies by unnecessarily changing the regulations.

There is nothing the private sector hates more than a fickle regulatory atmosphere and vague language that could unintentionally land them into a criminal infraction. If they hate it enough, they may just decide to stop investing in Alaska.

The most controversial point in Ballot Measure 1 is the presumption that all naturally occurring, surface bodies of water are fish habitats if they are connected to anadromous waters elsewhere. This can be found in Section 3 (c)of the bill.

No longer will a body of water be studied individually to determine if its a fish habitat, in which case the state can then designate it as a protected area. Alaska has more than 3 million lakes and 12,000 rivers that intertwine extensively, so you can see how unreasonable Section 3 (c) is.

Ballot Measure 1 effectively replaces the scientific process with a political one.

Currently, biologists are the ones who nominate a body of water to the state’s protected habitat catalog. Ballot Measure 1 replaces the role of biologists with a political and unscientific presumption.

Even ADF&G doesn’t view a problem with its current salmon protection efforts.

The department issued a FAQ sheet on Sep. 6 that clearly states that it “... believes the current permitting process effectively protects anadromous fish habitat.” Again, Ballot Measure 1 is trying to solve a problem that doesn’t exist, while asking all Alaskans to make serious sacrifices in our welfare and prosperity. We do not have to view fish resources as incompatible with human development.

Alaskans have been managing both for many decades. When Ballot Measure 1 appears on the Nov. 6 ballot, I urge you to vote “no.”

By Robert Hockema opinion@thenorthernlight.org

Corporate dollars and misinformation have hijacked the debate on the Stand for Salmon initiative.

By now, you’ve probably seen the army of No on 1 signs plastered all over roadsides and backyards. If you haven’t seen the signs, you’ve definitely heard the Stand for Alaska radio and TV ads. Unfortunately, the claims you’re hearing in those ads are wholly inaccurate and misleading.

Let’s set the record straight and talk about what the Stand for Salmon initiative actually does.

First and foremost, Ballot Measure One updates Alaska’s outdated habitat protection and permitting laws under Title 16. As it stands, there is no specified language limiting the amount of damage a project can have to a fish habitat.

So long as a project ensures the “proper protection of fish and game”, Alaska Fish and Game has little room to deny a permit. The statute fails to define what “proper protection” looks like, and thus puts salmon habitats at risk -- something the initiative fixes by adding scientific standards for habitat protection.

In response, the Stand for Alaska campaign has put forth dubious and misleading claims. Their campaign boasts that over 18 new federal and state policies have been updated since statehood.

Though true, it ignores that the majority of those updates fail to protect salmon habitats with more specific language.

Laws like the Clean Water Act, the Endangered Species Act, and the Pacific Salmon Treaty all call for broad protections for open waters and streams. None of them give Fish and Game the power to deny a permit unless the project will undoubtedly destroy fish habitats.

The problem is that mega projects like the Pebble Mine aren’t obvious threats to fish habitats. It takes careful research to understand how these projects pose a threat, which limits Fish and Game’s ability to hold them accountable until damage has already been done.

Additionally, the vast majority of updated protections are federal. It’s unclear whether those are likely to stick under the Trump administration’s crackdown on environmental law. For instance, the administration has began the process to open up ANWR, despite decades-long concerns that development will severely harm the surrounding environment. Under Trump, the Environmental Protection Agency has rolled back important federal protections, such as repealing Obama-

era methane output rules, stripping air pollution limitations on coal fired power plants, and removing basic safeguards for marine environments.

The extensive list of regressive environmental policies makes clear that we can’t rely on the federal government to protect environmental law anymore. If there’s a pro-development interest in conflict with environmental protection, President Trump has made clear which of the two he’s more likely to prioritize. Federal hostility towards science and environmental protection makes Ballot Measure One more important now than ever.

Ballot Measure One also restructures the permitting system under Title 16 to differentiate between minor and major projects. The two-tiered system specifically excludes small project from the process, including building a house, hunting, and commercial fishing. For the remainder of projects, those that pose a minimal risk to salmon habitats -- such as building a private dock -- are streamlined under the minor permitting process. Major projects, like large dams and mines, are classified under the major permitting process.

The permitting system proposed in the initiative allows Fish and Game to carefully review the environmental impact of projects that have the potential to damage spawning locations or cause long-term harm to salmon habitats.

In the event of an environmental disaster, the initiative grants the state the authority to place financial liabilities on the corporations responsible for damages. This provides companies an incentive to design projects to be as safe and efficient as possible.

The detailed permitting system in the initiative defeats the bad-faith arguments about job loss coming from Stand for Alaska. The No campaign continues to perpetuate misinformation by claiming that the initiative will shut down development projects, increase operating costs, and cost Alaska tens of thousands of jobs.

This is simply untrue. The initiative accounts for this by making sure small projects don’t get caught up in unnecessary red tape, and creates reasonable standards for large projects to meet.

Stand for Alaska seems to be forgetting that fishing provides over 30,000 jobs to Alaskans and generates over two billion dollars in economic activity each year.

The bottom line is this: if we continue to leave habitats unprotected, it could take decades to recover those loses. We should err on the side of caution and protect fish habitats over the interests of multinational corporations by voting Yes on Ballot Initiative One this November.

OPINION

10

New governor: go sell that natural gas

GRAPHIC BY JIAN BAUTISTA

By Ben Edwards

opinion2@thenorthernlight.org

Alaska’s petroleumrich North Slope contains an approximate 35 trillion cubic feet of proven natural gas reserves, and an estimated 200 trillion cubic feet extra of unproven reserves. This is an astonishingly significant resource, especially as the state struggles with its over-reliance on oil production. But if extracting and transporting natural gas to market is easy, then there wouldn’t need to be an opinion article about it. There is no established

infrastructure in place that could practically and safely transport gas on our North Slope to ports on our southern coast. Nothing short of a maximum effort from our new governor will suffice in making this opportunity a reality.‌ Natural gas is a separate fossil fuel from crude oil. Its chemical composition is primarily simple hydrocarbons such as methane. Although gas is still a fossil fuel, it emits at least 50 percent less carbon dioxide than coal. It also emits less than oil in most uses. Gas is primarily used for heating homes, cooking, boiling water

and generating electricity. ‌ Gas production and transportation both require a unique set of techniques and infrastructure, which Alaska does not have in completion. The Trans-Alaska Pipeline was designed for crude oil and cannot be practically repurposed for gas. As such, Gov. Bill Walker focused heavily on trying to build a liquid natural gas pipeline. The LNG pipeline would convert natural gas into liquid form for safe transport from the North Slope to a proposed Nikiski port on the Kenai Peninsula. However, the estimated cost of $34.1 billion or more, 10-year construction time and vocal opposition from environmentalists and anti-Walker Republicans helped stall the project before it could start.‌ Alaska’s new governor will take office on the first Monday of December. He should immediately resume Walker’s effort on natural gas. The time sensitivity here has more to do with the consumer market for gas than the production and transportation challenges. Gas consumption in China is booming. The Chinese government has been pushing to transition

factories and homes from coal to gas in order to cut emissions. Additionally, the purchasing power of middle class Chinese citizens is increasing as well.

The dragon is hungry for gas.‌ Alaskan gas has some powerful competition, though. The Russian Federation has tapped its Siberian riches to extract, refine and deliver gas to China through a pipeline currently under construction.

Russia is about to seize the Chinese consumer market before Alaska can sell so much as a propane tank there. It may seem like this is already a lost cause, but Alaska still has a few advantages. Rampant corruption in Russia’s energy sector makes doing business with them incredibly frustrating. If Alaskans can deliver gas to China without shenanigans, then we have a real chance of capturing a portion of the gas consumer market.‌ The importance of face-to-face negotiation cannot be understated.

This is why the burden of selling Alaskan gas falls squarely on the governor’s shoulders. The governor has the authority to represent the State of Alaska in legal, economic or other

official functions. Unlike the legislature, his policies and decisions are unilateral so long as they are confined within the powers of the executive prescribed in the Alaska Constitution. Non-state parties, such as the Chinese energy giant Sinopec, only want to negotiate with an Alaskan officer who represents the state as a whole.

This is why the function of legislature must be to endorse and support, while the governor focuses on the actual talking and handshaking.‌ Securing consumers before actually building the natural gas infrastructure seems counter-intuitive, but it makes sense.

The governor will have to attract partnerships with energy corporations to make Alaskan gas a reality, and those corporations only want to pitch in if they know there’s a buyer lined up. The LNG pipeline has the most groundwork already, so the new governor should consider a continuation of that project.‌ However, the governor may decide that the pipeline is not the right way to do this. That’s fine as long as he doesn’t lose sight of the goal entirely. Alterna-

tives do exist for getting Alaskan gas off the North Slope, each with pros and cons of their own. A railway is cheaper and easier to construct than a pipeline. A train could feasibly transport gas to ports.

The risk comes with derailment and spill disasters. Additionally, building a whole new port on the North Slope itself would skip the overland transportation entirely.

Gas could be loaded onto barges and shipped down through the Bering Strait.

This method would only be available during the low-ice summer, but climate change is expected to increase the duration of the low-ice season. The new governor is free to judge each option on its merits, but he shouldn’t give up on it entirely.‌ Alaska is a producer state. We do not have the population necessary to be significant consumers.

Our governor should always be looking for ways to maximize our ability to sell to consumers abroad.

The notion that Alaska can consume all of its own resources and still be prosperous is absurd. Selling abroad is what we do.

Specifically, it is what the governor must do.

Faculty Senate Represents UAA Mission and Values From Scott Downing, Associate Professor of English‌ The UAA Faculty Senate Executive Board appreciates the opportunity to address the oped article “UAA Faculty Senate Needs Restraint,” published in the Oct. 9 edition of The Northern Light. The author of the article recognizes that the Senate “serves as a forum for faculty to discuss, vote, and recommend policy to UAA leadership” and also acknowledges that “faculty input is valuable in any reform.”

We agree with those sentiments but disagree that clashes with executive leadership necessarily indicates faculty need more restraint.

The Faculty Senate serves as the collective voice of the faculty, embodying the mission and

values of the institution through its responsibility for programs, curriculum, teaching, research and academic policy. When administrative policies or decisions clash with the University’s mission and values, that tension comes to the surface in the form of Faculty Senate resolutions in which the faculty voices its perspective. As importantly, the Faculty Senate serves as a voice for responding to University of Alaska Statewide decisions that may negatively affect UAA’s ability to meet its mission and serve students most effectively. ‌ Faculty Senate resolutions concerning Strategic Pathways and the performance of UA Statewide represented an example of a tension between administrative decisions and those

values. Administrators may have the values of the institution in mind when they make decisions, but the various effects and consequences of administrative decisions cannot be known without the integral involvement of the voice for those values, the faculty. ‌ The work of faculty is grounded in evidence-based approaches to addressing issues.

The work of administration should be the same. When administrative decisions are made that lack transparency and don’t include an evidence-based approach to decision making (or that evidence is not shared effectively) faculty often question those decisions. Initiatives that are pushed forward without faculty involvement are often more difficult to implement and may

undermine the very success they were designed to achieve.‌ We agree that USUAA serves an important function at the University as the collective voice of students. We include student representatives appointed by the USUAA on the Faculty Senate Undergraduate Academic Board (UAB), Graduate Academic Board (GAB) and General Education Review Committee (GERC), the committees that oversee programs and curriculum at the University. While those seats are currently unfilled, we welcome student input on curriculum matters. Students led the initiative to incorporate an Alaska Nativethemed GER Initiative into the curriculum and we wholeheartedly endorsed that initiative. It embodied the values at UAA of

diversity and inclusion. Student success is at the center of our institution and we highly value student perspectives on the work of the university. ‌ Administration must make decisions concerning the allocation of resources. Ensuring those decisions reflect the mission and values of the institution is the primary purpose of faculty governance and shared decision making. Restraining the role of the faculty and the Faculty Senate in the name of expediency risks long-term damage to the University, its mission, its values and student success. ‌ Sincerely,‌ UAA Faculty Senate Executive Board‌

Letter to the Editor: A case for the WFSC swimming pool I urge the UAA administration to maintain the swimming pool in the Wells Fargo Sports Complex.

There are too few pools in a city which endures six months of harsh winter. Repurposing the UAA pool and the building for relocating staff from decentralized locations, new classrooms, student services, retail or another volleyball court would be a misuse of a building designed exclusively for athletic activities

and would cost more than maintaining the pool. To divide multi-purpose use by athletes, classes, office and retail workers would provide an inadequate environment for none of them. The current ice rink, pool, weight rooms and gym make an ideal place for students and the public to meet and workout during the days, evenings and weekends. My family and I have used the pool and facilities for 40 years.‌

While working for the Alaska State Legislature for 6 years I supported the $15 million design costs and $100 million construction appropriations for the Alaska Airlines Center, which now is a sunk cost without a pool or ice rink and with limited parking for major sporting events. UA budget problems cannot be solved solely by repurposing buildings and cutting staff or sports teams. It needs support of the Legislature for the

capital and operating budgets and contributions from large organizations in the community. Some patients from adjacent Providence Hospital continue rehab in the Wells Fargo Sports Complex; and Conoco-Phillips, BP, Alaska Airlines and local banks have been major contributors in the past.‌ Thomas S. Obermeyer, Sr. , J.D., MBA Licensed Missouri Attorney

CONTACT

11

STAFF CONTACTS

A S S O C I AT E D CO L L E G I AT E P R ES S

3211 Providence Drive Student Union 113 Anchorage, AK 99508‌

Sports Reporter Emily Medina sports2@thenorthernlight.org

Executive Editor Levi Signe Brown (907) 786-1313 editor@thenorthernlight.org‌

Opinion Writer Robert Hockema opinion@thenorthernlight.org

Managing Editor Cheyenne Mathews cmathews@thenorthernlight.org‌ Copy Editor Mariah DeJesus-Remaklus mremaklus@thenorthernlight.org News Editor Marie Ries news@thenorthernlight.org News Reporter Joey Carreon news2@thenorthernlight.org

Opinion Writer Ben Edwards opinion2@thenorthernlight.org Staff Photographer Christian Cielo ccielo@thenorthernlight.org Multimedia Editor Mizelle Mayo multimedia@thenorthernlight.org Graphic Designer Jian Bautista jbautista@thenorthernlight.org‌

Features Editor Chase Burnett features@thenorthernlight.org

Advertising Manager Meida Cen admanager@thenorthernlight.org (907) 786-6195‌

Features Reporter Robin O’Donoghue features2@thenorthernlight.org

PR & Events Coordinator John Sallee events@thenorthernlight.org

Arts & Entertainment Editor Malia Barto arts@thenorthernlight.org‌

Media Adviser Paola Banchero‌

Arts & Entertainment Reporter Caleigh Jensen arts2@thenorthernlight.org Sports Editor Lauren Cuddihy sports@thenorthernlight.org‌

The Northern Light is a proud member of the Associated Collegiate Press.

The Northern Light is a weekly UAA publication funded by student fees and advertising sales. The editors and writers of The Northern Light are solely responsible for its contents. Circulation is 2,500. The University of Alaska Anchorage provides equal education and employment opportunities for all, regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, Vietnam-era or disabled-veteran status, physical or mental disability, changes in marital status, pregnancy or parenthood. The views expressed in the opinion section do not necessarily reflect the views of UAA or the Northern Light.­­­

N OT I C E O F N O N D I S C R I M I N AT I O N The University of Alaska is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and educational institution. The University of Alaska does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, age, sex, physical or mental disability, status as a protected veteran, marital status, changes in marital status, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, parenthood, sexual orientation, gender identity, political affiliation or belief, genetic information, or other legally protected status. The University’s commitment to nondiscrimination, including against sex discrimination, applies to students, employees, and applicants for admission and employment.

Contact information, applicable laws, and complaint procedures are included on UA’s statement of nondiscrimination available at www.alaska.edu/nondiscrimination.

L E T T E RS A N D CO R R E C T I O N S P O L I C Y The Northern Light encourages readers to express their views in the newspaper. The Northern Light reserves the right to reject or publish any submission, online or in print.

Letters to the editor can be submitted to editor@thenorthernlight.org. The maximum length for a letter to the editor is 250 words, and 150 words for letters specifically endorsing candidates for federal, local, or university office. A letter to the editor is written by someone who does not have authoritative knowledge on the subject they are discussing. Contributors are restricted to one published letter to the editor per month.

Administrative Adviser Zac Clark‌

Opinion pieces can be submitted to editor@thenorthernlight.org. The maximum length for a contributor’s opinion piece is 450 words. Contributors are restricted to one published opinion piece per month. Opinion pieces written by staff of The Northern Light are limited to 800 words.

An opinion piece that is published in The Northern Light should be written by someone who has authoritative knowledge on the subject they are discussing.

Administrative Assistant Allie Hartman

Letters and opinion pieces are subject to editing for grammar, accuracy, length and clarity. All letters and opinion pieces must include names, major and/or group affiliation and contact information for verification purposes. The Northern Light will not publish anonymous letters or pseudonyms.

Requests for corrections can be sent to editor@thenorthernlight.org. Print publication is subject to accuracy and available space. All corrections are posted online with the original story at www. thenorthernlight.org. The deadline for submissions is the Friday before publication at noon, no exceptions.

The Northern Light newsroom is located on the first floor of the Student Union Room 118.