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Tau Kappa Epsilon smashes truck for charity
An evening with Bill Nye
By Nahla White and Scott Hobbs
On Aug. 21, Bill Nye spoke at the Alaska Center for the Performing Arts. He is the first speaker participating in the 2025 UAA College of Arts and Sciences Community Lecture Series.
The Northern Light interviewed Nye to discuss his career as an educator and his thoughts on science-related crises facing Earth.
The “Bill Nye the Science Guy” show first aired on Sept. 10, 1993, but Nye first was pushed toward being an educator around 1980.
“I felt the United States was making terrible cars, abandoning the metric system, taking solar panels off the roof of the White House … I got concerned about the future,” he said. This initial con-
cern served as the foundation for the “Bill Nye the Science Guy” show.
Nye has been the face of numerous live television climate change debates. He said he embraces the role of being a trusted eco-political commentator, and hopes that more impactful global climate policies can be implemented sooner than later.
The “Bill Nye the Science Guy” show has maintained relevancy over the past three decades, and Nye attributed the longevity of the show to a rule he and his producers made during the writing process.
No skit was allowed to exceed 46 seconds — giving the show an extremely fast pace. “We were doing TikTok 35 years ago, the way people do TikTok is
not that dissimilar from what we did years ago,” he said.
Nye said other elements that have given the show staying power include the diversity of the cast as well as a focus on elementary school-level science.
In recent years, more attention and resources have been allocated to STEM programs in government and academic institutions. Nye believed that the same focus should be redistributed into the humanities.
“This presumption that art … is a waste of time is all wrong,” said Nye. “Art is where you innovate.”
As content availability has changed over the past 15 years, Nye took issue with modern media creation. “Did guys at the rock quarry outside of Rome get a huge block of stone and find Michelan-
Campus coffee shops open for fall
UAA coffee shops shift their hours of operation as students return to campus for the fall semester
By Murat Demir
copy.editor@thenorthernlight. org
UAA campus coffee shops are now operating on fall semester business hours.
Seawolf Grounds, located in the Student Union, is open Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Kaladi Brothers Coffee, located in the Social Sciences Building, is now open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
gelo and say, ‘Hey, man, can you give us some content?’” he said.
Nye said that his favorite conspiracy is the claim that the Earth is flat. He finds it extraordinary that people believe the theory — although he said he felt most people will eventually realize the world is round.
Nye is concerned about the theory that vaccines are not successful. He said public health is fundamental, and places a responsibility on the individuals to get vaccinated in order to maintain a healthy and safe community.
Nye said he is optimistic about the future of AI — despite its current state. He said while it could mislead people, it has many beneficial applications.
He also expressed the amount of electricity used by AI will be negligible in the long run. “It’s very
reasonable to me that — not in 40 years — but in the next 15 years, somebody’s going to solve nuclear fusion. And if you have fusion, then we’d have electricity for everybody,” he said.
The following lecture by Nye saw a large student turnout, with live streaming services that provided coverage of the event for residents across Alaska. The panel consisted of UAA professors Paola
Astrophysics.
Many of the responses Nye provided during the panel mirrored the ones he had given during his interview with The Northern Light, further reaffirming his stance on the topics discussed.
The Northern Light About us
By Tanner Croft columnist1@thenorthernlight. org
We are The Northern Light — your local student-run newspaper — focused diligently on providing you, the students and faculty of UAA, with “truth at all costs.”
We work night and day, every semester, yearround, to ensure that all of our readers, regardless of their affiliation to UAA, have access to news that is fact-driven.
The Northern Light — or TNL — keeps our readers updated on current events of all kinds through our columns section. Here, you will also find music, movie and restaurant reviews — in addition to other kinds of entertaining media.
TNL is currently establishing a foundation account for our donors, which will allow TNL to receive donations. This is an ongoing project and will soon be available to the public. Follow future
updates to stay informed. Students or staff who may have tips or story ideas can email TNL Executive Editor Hannah Dillon or Managing Editor Kaitlyn Gaub. Readers can also submit to “Croft’s Comments” for advice, suggestions or any other comments.
TNL hosts open house pizza parties every day that we print. Fall semester print dates are Sept. 2, Oct. 7, Nov. 4 and Dec. 9. Our open house will be on these dates from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. Join us on these dates to enjoy good conversation and free food in the TNL office located behind the Subway in the Student Union.. We encourage our readers to interact with The Northern Light, get to know us and communicate with us.
Banchero — the chair for the department of Journalism and Public Communications — and Travis Rector — doctor in
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE NORTHERN LIGHT
PHOTO BY MURAT DEMIR
UAA Kaladi Brothers Coffee shop after-hours.
PHOTO BY ANJA BURNETT
TNL hosts open house last spring.
PHOTO BY MURAT DEMIR
Upcoming events
UAA event list from Sept. 3 to Oct. 7.
By Anja Burnett layout@thenorthernlight.org
Wednesday, Sept. 3
On-Campus Student Employment Fair ‘25
Student employment fair for students who are interested in obtaining a student employment position at UAA.
Location: Student Union - Second Floor Main Hallway, Enrollment Services Center - Hallway to Student Union.
Time: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 5
Add/drop deadline for 100% refund, credit/no credit deadline, credit-to-audit deadline, and last day for Pell Grant Adjustments for the Fall semester.
Location: Online
Time: The deadline ends at 11:59 p.m.
ASD Freshman Academy Lunch
ASD Freshman Academy visits to help students learn more about the benefits of higher education and how university programs can support career goals. A 20 minute lunch is held from 11:55 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
Location: unknown
Time: 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 6
Fall Withdrawal period begins
Withdrawing from classes does not result in a refund.
Location: UAOnline
Time: Online deadline ends at 11:59 p.m.
Sunday, Sept. 7
Approximate Alaska Education Grant (AEG) Disbursement Day
“Students eligible for the Alaska Education Grant (AEG) will see their AEG awards on UAOnline the week after the add/drop deadline has passed.”
Location: Online
Time: unknown
Thursday, Sept. 11
Global Seawolves Connect
UAA international and multicultural students are invited to celebrate and get to know each other with games, food and fun.
Location: Rasmuson Hall - Multicultural Center Lounge.
Time: 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 12
Midnight Sun Theatre Presents “Serial Bowl”
Six one-act plays and presenting authors compete to continue performing. Each script’s fate is in the audience’s hands and prompts them to select which teams advance to further episodes.
Location: Fine Arts Building - Room 129, Harper Studio, Fine Arts BuildingRoom 141.
Time: 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 13
Public Show: From Dream to Discovery
Planetarium showing of “the five major aspects of a mission life cycle–design,
construction, testing, launch, and operations–highlighted through examples of NASA missions.”
Location: ConocoPhilips Integrated Science Building - Room 220, Planetarium.
Time: 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, Sept. 14
Sitka Music Festival Autumn Classics
25
Sitka Music Festival
Location: Fine Arts Building - Room 122, Music Studio, Fine Arts Building - 1st Floor Lobby, Fine Arts BuildingRoom 143
Time: 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Monday, Sept. 15
Marine Corps Jazz Combo Recital Presentation and performance by the Marine Corps Jazz combo, hosted by the Department of Music.
Location: Fine Arts Building - 1st Floor Lobby, Fine Arts Building - Room 150, Recital Hall
Time: 7:30-8:30 p.m.
Tuesday, Sept. 16
Business & Accounting Fair
Location: Student Union - Full Cafeteria
Time: 4 p.m. to6 p.m.
Wednesday, Sept. 17
CAS Lecture Series - Jeff Lowenfels
Location: Fine Arts Building - 1st Floor Lobby, Fine Arts Building - Room 143 Time: 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Thursday, Sept. 18
Sitka Music Festival Autumn Classics
25 Sitka Music Festival
Location: Fine Arts Building - 1st Floor Lobby, Fine Arts Building - Room 143 Time: 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 19
Public Show: Seeing!
Planetarium showing photon production in a distant star as it travels across space to a person’s retina.
Location: ConocoPhilips Integrated Science Building - Room 220, Planetarium
Time: 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 20
Public Show: Undiscovered Worlds Planetarium showing of the different planets and stars orbiting the galaxy and beyond.
Location: ConocoPhilips Integrated Science Building - Room 220, Planetarium
Time: 6:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, Sept. 21
Sitka Music Festival Autumn Classics 25 Sitka Music Festival
Location: 1st Floor Lobby, Fine Arts Building - Room 143
Time: 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Tuesday, Sept. 23
Breaking Down Professionalism Workshop
Join Career Services for a standard business and professional expectations workshop.
Location: Student Union - Room 103, Lyla Richards Conference Room Time: 1 p.m. to 2 p.m.
Wednesday, Sept. 24
SON Commitment to Compassionate Care
Fine Arts Building - 1st Floor Lobby, Fine Arts Building - Room 150,
Location: Recital Hall
Time: 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Thursday, Sept. 25
Tea Time Conversations
Panel conversation on language education journeys and careers they lead. “Tea and cookies will be served.”
Location: Social Sciences BuildingRoom 258
Time: 12:30 p.m. to 2 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 26
ATY Presents a staged reading of “There Is No Play”
Location: Fine Arts Building - Room 129, Harper Studio, Fine Arts BuildingRoom 138, Green Room
Time: 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 27
Public Show: Black Holes Fulldome show featuring high-resolution immersive animations of the current science of black holes.
Location: ConocoPhilips Integrated Science Building - Room 220, Planetarium
Time: 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 3
Midnight Sun Theatre Presents - The 39 Steps
The 39 steps is a fast-paced whodunit, influenced by the John Buchan novel and the Alfred Hitchcock movie.
Location: Fine Arts Building - Room 134, Scene Shop, Fine Arts BuildingRoom 129, Harper Studio Time: 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 4
Midnight Sun Theatre Presents - The 39 Steps
The 39 steps is a fast-paced whodunit, influenced by the John Buchan novel and the Alfred Hitchcock movie.
Location: Fine Arts Building - Room 134, Scene Shop, Fine Arts BuildingRoom 129, Harper Studio
Time: 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Sunday, Oct. 5
Wind Ensemble Concert
Wind Ensemble concert performance.
Location: Fine Arts Building - 1st Floor Lobby, Fine Arts Building - Room 143
Time: 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Tau Kappa Epsilon smashes truck for charity
By Kaitlyn Gaub managing.editor@thenorthernlight.org
Tau Kappa Epsilon — a fraternity at UAA — held a charity truck smash event
on Aug. 29 in front of Cuddy Hall.
Charity participants — after signing a waiver and donning safety gear — wielded sledgehammers, crowbars and hammers to destroy the truck. Tau Kappa Epsilon, known as TKE, gathered mone-
tary donations from participants for Saint Jude Children’s Hospital.
The Northern Light spoke with TKE member Charles Ryland who said, “My old roommate had this truck that he hated … I bought it off of him for like, $1 and
we were trying to figure out what to do with it.”
“We looked back through old Facebook and Instagram, and we saw the car smash,” said Ryland. “We figured, why not do another one — raise some money and let people have a good send-off to the first week of school.”
On Aug. 23, days before the car smash, TKE members discovered a person broke into the truck and had allegedly been living in it.
Ryland recounted discovering the truck, “I discovered that the truck was unlocked, the driver’s seat was missing and there was a bag full of mysterious things in my truck. I called UPD, and they did a search of the vehicle, they found some stuff … empty alcohol containers.”
Despite the surprise, TKE was able to destroy the vehicle by stressed out, UAA approved, tool wielding students.
The history of Labor Day
By Hannah Dillon editor@thenorthernlight.org
Throughout the Industrial Revolution in the 1800s, U.S. citizens worked in unsustainable and hazardous conditions, according to Norwood Secondary College. Employers often demanded long hours and hard work in place of worker’s safety.
The average employee worked anywhere from 12 to 16 hours a day, six days a week.
Wages for the working-class were below the amount necessary to take care of oneself or a family. Employees were offered minimal workers’ rights.
Factory floors were dirty, and machines were poorly maintained and were known to catch fire. Workers experienced frequent injuries. The economic value of cheap labor led to employers to ignore working conditions that are now regulated.
Women and children earned one-third to one-half the amount as their adult male counterparts. Black workers were paid nearly nothing, faced discrimination and were transitioning out of enslavement or still enduring it.
Low wages, unsafe workplaces, and discrimination, led activists to push for a holiday that recognized workers’ rights and efforts, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.
Labor Day has been observed for over 130 years since it was first celebrated on Sept. 5, 1882, when 2,000 people marched down city streets.
It is a day of recognition for achievements made by U.S. workers and their demand for equity, better pay and safer working conditions.
PHOTO BY KAITLYN GAUB
Tau Kappa Epsilon members stand on smashed truck.
PHOTO BY KAITLYN GAUB.
Sigma Sigma Sigma member Bre Hester hits the truck with a sledgehammer.
PHOTO BY GETTY BETTMANN
Labor Day celebration in Gastonia, North Carolina in 1934.
Food insecurity and relief
By Hannah Dillon editor@thenorthernlight.org
Each year, the U.S. recognizes the first Friday of September as National Food Bank Day to bring awareness to available aid and reduce the surrounding stigma.
At UAA, approximately 45% of students have experienced food insecurity, according to the Seawolf Food Pantry.
In Anchorage, Alaska’s News Source reported that 13% of citizens are food insecure.
Additionally, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, or USDA, reported that, “13.5 percent (18.0 million) of U.S. households were food insecure at some time during 2023.”
Food banks in the U.S. have been supplying goods to people in need since the opening of Saint Mary’s Food Bank in 1967 and are often attributed as
the inspiration of National Food Bank Day.
As previously reported by The Northern Light, UAA’s Seawolf Food Pantry is located in the Professional Sciences Building Room 211. The Seawolf Food Pantry allows all students to shop the pantry for food, hygiene products and household goods — at no cost.
Students can also file for federal aid through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, known as SNAP. Applications for an Electronic Balance Transfer, or EBT card, are available through SNAP.
SNAP uses a student’s earned income through employment as a guide for how much money can be included in your monthly payment.
If students are not considered a dependent, or are above 24 years of age, they may be better qualified for SNAP and FAFSA benefits.
Suicide awareness for students
EDITOR’S NOTE — This article includes discussion of suicide. If you or someone you know needs help, call or text the U.S. suicide and crisis hotline at 988
By Hannah Dillon editor@thenorthernlight.org
September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, aimed at reducing the stigma of seeking help, raising awareness and promoting prevention.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, or NIMH, suicide is the third-leading cause of death in individuals aged 15 to 24 and second-leading cause for people aged 25 to 34. For college students, academic stress, personal challenges, financial or food insecurity, and the wide range of responsibilities college students have can add significant strain to their life.
The Northern Light spoke with UAA psychology professor Dr. Jennifer Poon over email about suicide awareness and resources.
Poon wrote that it is known certain groups of people are at higher risk of suicidal ideation or attempt. These groups include youth, sexual and gender minorities, and specific racial and ethnic groups.
“These groups are at higher risks for a number of reasons, mainly because of the way society treats them and the unique stressors they face (e.g., discrimination, historical trauma),” wrote Poon.
Poon wrote predicting suicide is difficult, and out of 365 studies from the past 50 years, prediction was only slightly better than chance.
Poon wrote, “I think talking
about suicide is an important one that many people seem to miss, especially when so many people joke about ‘unaliveing” themselves.’”
She said they could be joking, and are often not serious in the moment, but following up with them at another time may be beneficial.
Poon wrote passive expressions like saying “I wish I could go to sleep and not wake up,” or active expressions such as, “I am thinking about killing myself,” are examples of suicidal ideation and should always be taken seriously.
Intent and specific plans significantly increased risk of attempt. Prior attempts and behaviors such as nonsuicidal selfinjury can be a predictor of a future attempt, wrote Poon.
If students are concerned about a friend or peer, Poon wrote, “I think the best thing to do is honestly just ask them. Even if they say no, because you asked, you have demonstrated that you actually care and they may be more willing to disclose to you in the future.”
She wrote to not overly extend concern by asking the person each day, but it might be a good idea to ask more than once or multiple times, especially if there are any noticeable changes like they are no longer attending classes or they stop showering.
Poon wrote about her clinical experience with adolescents who did not want to tell on their friends who may have experienced suicidal ideations.
“While there is a risk your friend may be upset, the most important thing is to keep them
on this planet,” wrote Poon. “You can tell them that you love them and cannot morally/ ethically keep this information to yourself while encouraging them to reach out.”
She noted that restricting access to lethal means is important for prevention as suicidal ideations usually peak in bursts. These few minutes of separation from accessible means, such as weapons, chemicals or substances, can save their life.
Poon said suicide is often determined by multiple factors, and while suicide is an individual problem, suicidal ideation almost always results from a combination of factors, “many of which are systemic and go far beyond the individual.”
“People do not necessarily want to die; they usually just want the pain to stop and don’t feel like their life or future will improve,” wrote Poon. “Suicide is deeply intertwined with systemic inequalities, discrimination, and social determinants of health.”
Poon wrote that even if you are not suicidal, students can contact 988 for guidance on a sensitive situation. Trusted professors are also available to help. Parents, guardians, Elders, therapists or any trusted person or provider are always someone students can talk to.
Seeking care at a local emergency room or contacting emergency services are also options for anyone who feels at risk of suicide.
The Student Health and Counseling Center also has a variety of resources available to students for a low price.
Poon listed events taking place in September for suicide awareness, such as the Anchorage chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s walk that will be hosted at West Anchorage High School on Sept. 6.
She also highlighted Missing and Murdered Persons upcoming 5k walk on Sept. 27.
“I think it’s important to move beyond pathologizing suicidal individuals and start looking at what we can do at the societal level,” wrote Poon.
“How can we create universities and, ultimately, entire societies that don’t cause so many people to feel so miserable that they feel compelled to die in order to escape? How can we find ways to create communities
in which suicide is no longer a viable option for people?” she wrote. Here is a list of other resources available to anyone in need: Providence Hospital Emergency Department.
Call 911 or 311 for the Anchorage Mobile Crisis Team. Dial 988 to get local mental health help 24/7.
UAA Student Health and Counseling Center Alaska Careline Crisis Intervention Line: 1-877-266-4357. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255. Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741.
Trevor Project Hotline: 1-866-488-7686.
Trevor Project Text Line: Text START to 678-678.
PHOTO COURTESY OF UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA ANCHORAGE
Students talking in the Student Union.
PHOTO BY RAYE M. WHITE
Non-perishable goods line the shelves of the Seawolf Food Pantry.
Understanding chronic illnesses in college
By Kaitlyn Gaub managing.editor@thenorthernlight.org
September is National Pain Awareness month. Whether you have diabetes, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, epilepsy or any other debilitating illness, chronic illnesses affect all aspects of life.
According to the Center for Disease Control, 60% of Americans experience chronic illnesses. The organization lists poor nutrition, lack of physical activity, smoking and overconsumption of alcohol as risk factors for conditions like cancer, diabetes and heart disease.
Psychological conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder and borderline personality disorder can impact how people interact with the world. It can be difficult to manage illnesses and still live a happy and fulfilling life — especially when they are invisible to most people.
Invisible illnesses and disabilities are chronic conditions
that are not apparent to those around you. In an article by Harvard Health, “So-called invisible illnesses affect an estimated 10% of the 61 million Americans who deal with a physical or mental ailment that limits their movements or senses, according to the CDC.”
Despite this, they can still be debilitating. Never assume someone does not have a disability or is healthy based on appearances or previous abilities.
Conditions that have inconsistent symptoms can be hard for people without chronic illnesses to understand.
Many illnesses are congenital or hereditary and are not always attributed to lifestyle factors. Chronic or life-altering conditions can occur at any point in life. Whether it’s an underlying condition that becomes symptomatic or an accident that causes it, chronic conditions are something to be aware of.
Students experiencing chron-
ic illnesses face the challenge of balancing school, work, social life and physical well-being. Students can fall into patterns of overexertion, poor nutrition, substance use, poor sleep, stress reactions and other behaviors that affect their health.
Abilities and symptoms can vary day-to-day depending on the condition. An easy way of understanding this is through the “Spoon Theory,” coined by
writer Christine Miserandino.
The Spoon Theory is an analogy that explains how many people experiencing chronic conditions manage energy or pain levels.
For example, a healthy individual starts every day with 20 spoons — or energy. Each daily task takes up a small amount of spoons. A healthy person rarely runs out of spoons and is able to tackle the next day’s tasks with ease.
People living with chronic health issues start the day off with less spoons. Each task consumes more spoons for these individuals, sometimes leading to them dipping into the next day’s spoons. This leads to the person feeling drained or experiencing flare-ups.
The Spoon Theory is a good way to understand how to manage tasks and not overwork yourself during daily life. Try to save your spoons, or energy, when possible.
Hidden Gem: Fletcher’s
College students face many different stressors. People with chronic illnesses or disabilities have extra factors to consider to stay on track.
Healthy food, medication, water and other essentials are important to staying healthy during college. Taking time to rest and recover, or spending time with friends or loved ones can help people support their illnesses.
It can be difficult to express your health concerns to professors or employers. Communicate your needs and limitations with Disability Support Services or professors to ensure your success.
If students are in need of support or would like to support a friend, they can submit a report to the Care Team. The Care Team can provide students with information on campus resources and reach out to professors to talk with them about deadlines or missed classes.
Fletcher’s is such a well-kept secret that even longtime residents of Anchorage have no idea it exists
By Murat Demir and Tanner Croft
For previous hidden gems, we typically feature workingclass businesses that are budget and location friendly for college students to visit. This time, we decided to visit Fletcher’s — located in the Hotel Captain Cook — to celebrate the beginning of this semester with a treat.
Fletcher’s was a perfect choice for this hidden gem, given that it is often overlooked by Anchorage locals. Although this restaurant is a bit further from campus than we normally cover, we felt compelled to visit this quaint restaurant nestled in the shadow of the more well-known Crow’s Nest.
Located on the ground floor of the hotel’s Tower III, Fletcher’s is a mediterranean-inspired english-style pub. It is named after English sailor Fletcher Christian, who was known for the Mutiny on The Bounty in 1789.
During the summer, Fletcher’s is a popular location for tourists visiting Anchorage. Given its proximity to the railroad station and other vacationist destinations, it’s common to meet interesting people from around the world here.
The atmosphere is bustling, but elegant. The dining room is decorated like the cabin of an old ship, featuring dark mahogany-colored hardwood.
The glow of warm lighting provides a moody environment for patrons. Brass handrails and leather upholstered stools line the length of the bar.
The open-kitchen design allows patrons to view the behind-
the-scenes activity of the chefs, contributing to the pub feel with clanking dishes and a lively environment.
Many of the servers and bartenders have worked at Fletcher’s for years. Staff consistency is often an important factor for regular patrons of an establishment. Our bartender, Ben Keller, was friendly and informative.
The bar, which many students of legal drinking age may find themselves enthralled by, carries a vast selection of whiskey and scotch any connoisseur can enjoy.
This is not all it has to offer, though, as the bar is fullystocked and suited to all your needs — whether you’re on the hunt for tequila or a nice pinot noir.
The lasagna — which comes in a cast-iron dish — is flavorful and rests in a pool of marinara.
This benefits the dish and does not give the sense that the pasta is “drowning.”
An order of spaghetti and meatballs is a solid go-to dish.
The marinara on this dish is complemented well by red pepper flakes and a shake of salt.
For dessert, if you find yourself still gluttonous, the lemon strawberry tiramisu is a wonderful choice. Full of fruit-filled flavor, this tangy and citrusy-sweet treat is a “must-have” for anyone who enjoys a dessert with a
bright taste.
The Crème Brûlée is another classic on the Fletcher’s dessert list. It’s not overpoweringly sweet and arguably the best rendition we’ve tried in years.
Even though the food is amazing and definitely worth trying, the ambiance is truly the reason to visit Fletcher’s.
Fletcher’s may sit in the shadows of the Crow’s Nest, but the memorable impression it leaves shines light on this hidden gem.
The dining room and bar at Fletcher’s.
Accommodations for the deaf and hard of hearing
Anyone can go deaf or become hard of hearing at any moment. There are various aids that the deaf and hard of hearing might utilize to succeed in a hearing-dominated world
By Anja Burnett layout@thenorthernlight.org
Deafness is a spectrum.
There are many variables to being deaf — how people lose their hearing, the extent of their hearing loss, whether they use sign language, use cochlear implants and much more.
There are various resources and items that make life more accessible for those who have lost some or all of their hearing.
According to the Mayo Clinic, a cochlear implant is an electronic device that is surgically implanted below the skin near the ear, producing sound for the receiver.
This medical device is useful for individuals who have damaged hair cells inside their inner ear, known as the cochlea.
As a deaf person who wears cochlear implants myself, I rely on them to listen and respond to conversations.
Growing up, daily classroom environments consisted of accommoda-
tions outlined in my 504 or IEP plan.
Both plans vary depending on a person’s needs.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, a 504 plan is a result of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which enforces and protects disability rights in schools.
A 504 plan is a guide that supplies students who may encounter learning interferences with adequate resources and support.
An IEP, or Individualized Educational Program, resulted from the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and provides a written plan of specified instruction to aid a student’s distinct requirements.
This includes assistive technology, according to the nonprofit organization, Understood.
An FM system is identified as a Frequency Modulator system and is used as an assistive learning device to amplify sounds in the receiver’s environment.
Each of my specialized educational plans specifically included utilizing an FM system, which allowed me to receive information directly to my cochlear implants.
Interpreters are often present in many hearingdominated situations and events. For example, some concerts and even some presidential conferences provide American Sign Language — shortened to ASL — interpreters.
In September 2020 — before Trump’s first term ended — the National Association of the Deaf, or NAD, filed its first lawsuit that ordered the White House to provide ASL interpreters for COVID19-related briefings.
This lawsuit was resolved with a policy that included ASL interpreters to join all press briefings conducted by high-ranking government officials, according to the NAD.
This expectation continued until January 2025, disrupting a streak in providing accessibility to deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals who primarily
utilize ASL as their native language.
Such information cannot be translated through closed-captioning as ASL is distinct from the English language, which inhibits access to ASL users.
Movie theaters are mandated by Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act to provide closed-captioning devices that allow the deaf and hard of hearing to enjoy the movie experience, as stated by 3PlayMedia.
Service dogs are often used for individuals who are blind and have vision loss, as well as for the deaf and hard of hearing.
According to NEADS, service dogs for the hard of hearing alert their partner to various lifestyle activities that come naturally to many, such as hearing a smoke detector, a door knock or a morning alarm that many use to wake up every day.
Some people use audible alarms that they hear to get themselves up for the day. However, for those who are deaf, their alarms might be visual or
tactile.
A visual alarm would include a sunrise alarm, which gradually turns bright until it fills the room with a bright, warm light that resembles the sun.
A tactile alarm is a vibrating alarm and can resemble the sensation of someone hastily shaking you to get up.
In the event of an emergency — such as a fire — smoke detectors are the first things to notify people. Smoke detectors for the hard of hearing are dif-
ferent from the standardgrade smoke detector. The smoke detector often has lights that flash on and off with an extremely loud alarm.
Being able to hear clearly might be considered the norm, but deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals — and their allies — have helped everyday situations become more accessible, enjoyable and maintainable.
Hearing(ish): Activation and mapping
This is episode one of my podcast “Hearing(ish),” where I talk about my experiences as a deaf person who utilizes cochlear implants, specifically the activation and mapping of this technology
By Anja Burnett layout@thenorthernlight.org
Speaker 1: “So, we walked out of there, and I remember you immediately started bawling. You’re like, it hurts.” Speaker 2: “It was deflating.”
Speaker 2: “I don’t think any place that we
were ever stationed with the military there was readily available services — we always had to travel — we always had to travel at least 50 to 100 miles, or actually airline travel, to get you the services.”
Speaker 1: “The more challenging times were with the school districts and getting your 504 plan
— or your IEP the way it needed to be — and the services and accommodations that you needed. Those were much more challenging than having your device mapped.”
To listen to the full podcast, scan the QR code or visit Hearing(ish) on Spotify.
SPORTS
Photos: Seawolves defeat Silverswords
By Justin Cox
Seawolves volleyball is back with a great start. UAA defeated the Chaminade Silverswords
on Aug. 29 for their third straight win of the season, which kicked off with the Alaska/Hawaii Challenge.
Starting behind, the Seawolves rallied back to win the first set, before losing the second. The Seawolves
fought back and took the third set before losing the fourth and going into the fifth set, where they
clinched the victory, 3-2.
PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX
Tia Allen prepares for the first serve of the game.
PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX
Riba serves the ball.
PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX
Galloway dives for the ball.
PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX
Johana Malikova saves the ball before it goes out-of-bounds.
PHOTO BY JUSTIN COX.
The Seawolves warm-up before their match against the Silverswords.
OPINION
Kendrick Lamar’s ‘GNX’ review
This is ‘Sound and Sociology’: the column where I talk about music, sociology and sometimes both
By Nahla White columnist2@thenorthernlight. org
About six months after the historic rap battle between Kendrick Lamar and Drake, Kendrick surprised the world by suddenly releasing his sixth studio album “GNX” on Nov. 22, 2024.
It stands out as being one of the more disjointed projects in his discography. Lacking the storytelling and thematic elements that Kendrick is most notorious for including in his albums, “GNX” serves more as a love letter to the culture and the city that Kendrick was born in — Compton.
”GNX” features many samples from iconic artists, with 2Pac, SWV, Luther Vandross and Debbie Deb being the most notable.
Stepping away from the G-funk-inspired sound that he utilized in “Good Kid, M.A.A.D City,” Kendrick still manages to embody the West Coast in a different manner on “GNX” by including bouncy, upbeat tracks that showcase his ability to make hits as well as deep cuts.
Starting with the most anticipated song on “GNX” and the second song on the tracklist, “Squabble Up” was first featured as a teaser at the beginning of the “Not Like Us” music video released earlier that year.
“Squabble Up” is the perfect rally song. Sitting at the beginning of the album, it encapsulates the West Coast sound that remains throughout the project. It stays on 10 the entire time and doesn’t let up until the very end.
“Luther” is the third track on the album and the most commercially successful, currently sitting at 1.1 billion streams on Spotify. Featuring the beloved queen SZA, it brings the pace of the album down by having a simple love song situated between a hype song and a deepcut.
“Luther” is very simple and cute, and the nostalgia factor added by the Luther Vandross sample definitely solidifies it as a banger.
The best tracks on “GNX” are the ones that
have the most substance. Even though Kendrick shies away from his usual storytelling method on this album, two songs really exemplify the skills that have put him at the top of the current rap game.
On the track “Reincarnated,” Kendrick tells the story of different musical artists from the past whose lives mirror his own, leading him to believe they are past incarnations of himself.
The first verse is told from the perspective of John Lee Hooker, a blues singer from Clarksdale, Mississippi who influenced the genre significantly. The second verse is often interpreted to be about either Billie Holiday or Dinah Washington — both jazz singers during
the Jim Crow era who died from substance use disorder.
The final verse brings the audience to the present day, with Kendrick rapping about his own experiences of finding his calling in music, tying it back to the theme of reincarnation and how music seems to find him in every life he’s born into.
Toward the end, Kendrick likens himself to Lucifer and draws parallels between the Devil’s fall from heaven and his own rise to fame leading to greed. He adds a twist by acknowledging his faults and vowing to be better, diverging from the Devil’s refusal to take accountability as portrayed in Christian mythology.
One detail from “Re-
incarnated” that I really enjoy is the use of 2Pac’s “Made Niggas” instrumental, as well as Kendrick’s emulation of 2Pac’s flow from that song. In his previous works, Kendrick has claimed to be the successor of the late rapper numerous times. This detail further services the theme of reincarnation present in the song.
The second storytelling song on the album that really caught my ear was “Heart Part 6.” The “Heart” series is a group of songs that Kendrick typically releases before a major project.
“The Heart Part 6” tells the story of how Kendrick’s initial label, Top Dawg Entertainment, came to be. It’s the classic come-up story that most
rappers typically touch on at some point during their careers. Its heartfelt nature comes down to the nostalgic timbre Kendrick uses to describe the early days of TDE.
While he makes it clear that trying to get the label going was a struggle, he reminisces about the times he shared with other members of the label and marvels at how much the group has grown since its beginnings.
The sample of SWV’s “Use Your Heart” adds to the nostalgia and gives the song a warmer feeling overall.
If we were to view Kendrick’s discography as a book series, I think “GNX” fits in perfectly with the narrative. Following the therapy that he
goes through in “Mr. Morale and the Big Steppers,” his victory against Drake, and his sweep at the Grammys, “GNX” symbolizes an era of healing, culture and community in Kendrick’s life.
After a few years long drought, Hip-Hop is slowly starting to resemble a culture and community that people can connect with and bond over. The unilateral approval and acceptance of “GNX” is a testament to that.
While it certainly wasn’t the only banger project that dropped in 2024, “GNX” was a nice cherry on top to a year filled with many great moments for Hip-Hop.
8/10
PHOTO COURTESY OF PGLANG.
NFL Week 1 preview
Football is back … and Micah Parsons is on the Packers!?
By Scott Hobbs columnist.editor@thenorthernlight.org
After nearly seven months, the NFL is kicking off its regular season in Philadelphia with the Super Bowl LIX champion Philadelphia Eagles facing the Dallas Cowboys.
Despite the chaos in the offseason, every notable situation resolved itself before the season commenced.
So what notable games are happening in Week 1 and how will teams set the tone for the year?
Starting with the aforementioned first game, both the Eagles and the Cowboys have a lot riding on the season opener.
For the Eagles, they need to start the year off hot. After a dominant victory in the Super Bowl, they lost a few key players to free agency. If they secure an overwhelming win — with additions like first-round draft pick Jihaad Campbell putting on standout performances — they’ll continue to be favorites to win the Super
Bowl.
The Cowboys, on the other hand, are in crisis mode. The team looked solid — as long as it signed Micah Parsons.
Instead, they traded Parsons for possible players to be drafted in the future. This move left them with a depleted defense in the present. It would take a miracle for them to upset the Eagles. Otherwise a blowout Week 1 loss may be indicative of misery to come for Cowboys fans.
The next day, two more teams are having an important bout in Brazil.
The Kansas City Chiefs looked dominant in the preseason. Questions still linger about their offense’s ability to continue operating without star receiver Rashee Rice — who is suspended until Week 7.
If their offense can continue to click against a stout Chargers defense, a win against a tough division rival is one of the best ways to start the year.
The Los Angeles Chargers need this win badly. Their star offensive lineman Rashawn Slater is out for the season and their
only threatening receiver on paper is Ladd McConkey.
While their defense looks to continue their strong play from last year, how this offense will come together to overcome a juggernaut like the Chiefs will be a test of its ability to perform against great teams this season.
The Washington Commanders are facing off against the New York Giants during the morning slate of Sunday games. All eyes are on the Commanders’ receivers. After Terry McLaurin, the team lacks depth and looks to be one injury away from a lost
season.
However, a solid performance against the Giants’ ferocious defensive unit could help ease fans’ fears.
Facing the Cleveland Browns, the Cincinnati Bengals might need every win they can get. Despite a five-game win streak to close out the season last year, the team missed the playoffs.
Almost nothing about the team has changed, since the majority of its cap space is tied up with four players on the roster. While those four players — Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins and Trey Hendrickson — are
superstars, it’s going to take everything they have to even sneak into the playoffs.
Finally, all four NFC North teams have something to prove as they square off against one another.
The Detroit Lions need to make it to the top — plain and simple. Losing before the Super Bowl isn’t enough — and neither is losing in the Super Bowl. This team has all the talent in the world, but the window in which they can win the Super Bowl is shutting fast.
If they beat the Green Bay Packers to start the season, they’re taking a big step toward achieving that lofty goal.
The Packers are in the same boat. Their roster may be young, but they can only sustain this performance for so long before players start getting expensive. Signing Parsons is an indication that the team is all in on winning right now.
A win against the Lions would give them a meaningful tally in the win column come tiebreaker time
at the end of the season.
The Minnesota Vikings need to show that J.J. McCarthy is the real deal. If they had a dominant season last year just to flop after letting Sam Darnold walk in free agency, they are going to be the laughingstock of the league. Beating the upstart Chicago Bears puts them in great position to prevent that outcome from happening.
The Bears need to finally win in the regular season — not just the offseason. They keep having solid years from February to September, but it needs to be the other way around.
Winning in Week 1 is a good start down the path of being competitive to January and beyond for rookie head coach Ben Johnson and his talented team.
Between these games as well as the others being played, Week 1 is going to be must-see NFL football. Block out your weekend, and get ready to settle in for moments of bliss frequently interrupted by shouting at the TV.
Three Days Grace’s ‘One-X’ review
A look at the band’s heavy 2006 album
By Scott Hobbs columnist.editor@thenorthernlight.org
There are two kinds of people in this world — those who have seen a Spinosaurus edit on Instagram, and those who have not. If you have, your ears have already been graced with “Animal I Have Become” from the “OneX” album by Three Days Grace.
“One-X” is rooted in the lead singer Adam Gontier’s experience of going through rehabilitation for substance use disorder. Gontier’s journals inspired many of the lyrics on the album — including the three songs discussed in this review.
“Pain” is the second track on the album and opens with an evocative guitar riff behind the vocals of Gontier describing his wish to feel pain. Recurring throughout the song is the lyric “’Cause I’d rather feel pain than nothing at all” at the end of each chorus.
This direct statement of the urge to feel anything — even extreme pain — places the listener in Gon-
tier’s mindset.
Following this first chorus, the drums, guitar and bass come in with a more intense version of the initial riff to accompany the rest of the song.
At the outset of the first verse, Gontier confronts the listener with the familiar feeling of loneliness that accompanies substance use disorder.
The lyric, “You’re sick of feeling numb / You’re not the only one,” however, smashes the idea that those experiencing substance use disorder are isolated in their feelings.
This was an intentional choice made by Gontier. While writing “One-X,” Gontier was surprised to find out he was not alone in his feelings of isolation, with that feeling being shared by other members of the band, according to an article published by V13.
Following this brief moment of shared struggle, the song refocuses on being in a numb state, yearning for anything to break through mentally.
Lyrics like “This life is filled with hurt / When happiness doesn’t work”
and “Anger and agony are better than misery” crash into the listener like a cold wave of aimlessness.
The song closes with Gontier shouting out one last time that he would “rather feel pain” before the cymbal echoes into silence.
Then, the kick drum and bass riff of “Animal I Have Become” replaces that silence with a pulsating, rage-filled energy. As the intro progresses, a slashing guitar mirroring the bass and drums is introduced.
Listeners are sucked in by the lyric, “I can’t escape this hell / So many times I’ve tried.” No longer focused on a desire for pain, Gontier wrestles through this song with feeling trapped by OxyContin.
Gontier stated “Animal I Have Become” was “my realization that change had to happen, I had to ask for help.” This is reinforced at the end of each verse with the lyric “Somebody get me through this nightmare / I can’t control myself.”
The chorus amps up the emotion, filling the listener with a primal feeling of
fury — unsurprising for a song with the name “Animal I Have Become.”
Gontier howling out, “So what if you can see the darkest side of me? / No one would ever change this animal I have become,” hits the listener squarely with fear. Fear of others discovering his substance use and the fear that he is stuck as the person it makes him.
The next line contains a plea for someone to, “Help me believe it’s not the real me / Somebody help me tame this animal.” It solidifies Gontier’s terror about his current state not being “the real me,” and that his substance use is not just something he needs help with, but that it needs to be tamed.
At the end of “Animal I Have Become,” all these components come together in a thunderous crash of sound, with discordantly plucked strings on the distorted guitar ringing out — similar to an animal’s growl.
Later in the album, the song “Riot” stands out from other tracks. Yet another song written by Gontier in rehab, “Riot”
is a call to action against feeling overburdened and burnt-out.
Loudwire conducted an interview in which guitarist Barry Stock stated that the song’s riff is inspired by “Black Sabbath,” by the English heavy metal band Black Sabbath.
“Riot” focuses much more on the commonality of the shared effects of substance use disorder on individuals, as well as other shared feelings of exhaustion and frustration.
The verses of the song call out to anyone experiencing struggle. Lyrics such as, “If you feel so empty / So used up, so let down / If you feel so angry / So ripped off, so stepped on” and “If you feel so filthy / So dirty, so fucked up / If you feel so walked on / So painful, so pissed off” bring together individuals grappling with those feelings.
Repeated throughout the song is the lyric, “You’re not the only one refusing to back down / You’re not the only one, so get up,” serves as a rallying cry. The chorus simply repeats, “Let’s start a riot / A riot” ignites a rebellious
feeling in the listener.
“Riot” concludes as Gontier screams out one prolonged “Let’s start a riot,” with his voice cracking as he holds the lyric over the distorted ringing of the guitar.
“One-X” is written from a place of struggle and pain. It confronts the listener with those emotions, conveys the desperation of experiencing them and drives them toward taking action against what’s causing them to feel that way.
Whether you want some sick background music for an edit of a dinosaur or need music that gives you a space to not feel so alone in your struggles, “One-X” may be the album for you.
PHOTO COURTESY OF WIKIPEDIA
PHOTO COURTESY OF GETTY IMAGES, TAKEN BY EMILEE CHINN. Kicking off the regular season is a highly anticipated game between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Dallas Cowboys.
STAFF CONTACTS
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editor@thenorthernlight.org
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Managing Editor // Advertising and Communications Manager
Kaitlyn Gaub managing.editor@thenorthernlight.org admanager@thenorthernlight.org (907) 786-6195
Columnist Tanner Croft columnist1@thenorthernlight.org
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Croft’s Comments
Welcome back to school everyone!
By Tanner Croft columnist1@thenorthernlight. org
Croft’s Comments has returned, my friends! I am glad to be back — helping, answering questions and responding to each and every one of you.
This month, we have a wide range of questions covering everything from student concerns about new financial changes at UAA to my preferred type of wine. Don’t forget to submit your questions or comments for the next edition of Croft’s Comments!
Q: What do you think about parking services price hiking? Do they even have justification for the increases?
A: I have very strong opinions on this topic. Currently, I have not looked into the increase very much. As such, I am unable to make a determination about whether there is an appropriate justification for this increase. What I can say for certain is that you should keep your eyes peeled for a new “Late to the Party” column entry that might be discussing parking services.
Q: Is it hard being the personality hire?
A: I wouldn’t necessarily call myself the personality hire. We have many vibrant personalities here at TNL who all contribute greatly to our unique dynamic.
Q: Pizza, tacos or pasta?
A: A Dorito taco shell filled with pasta noodles and covered with marinara, mozzarella and Italian sausage. If I had to pick though, I might settle with tacos, because you can buy a lot more of them for less money.
Q: Are you hosting any parties this semester? Maybe a social night at a bar near campus?
A: I have never hosted any parties; that would violate the student code of conduct. I would consider gathering a group of people to hang out at The Blue Fox near campus. That could be fun, so long as everyone who joins is of legal age.
Q: Who is the hottest person at the newspaper?
A: We have not yet taken everyone’s temperature, but we might do this at our next event to determine the answer. Would you prefer your answer in Fahrenheit or Canadian?
Q: I ate an apple for breakfast but I think I wanted a banana instead. Should I get an orange next time?
A: Definitely get the banana, not an orange. You will enjoy it more considering that is what you were craving.
Q: The UAA alcohol and party restrictions are absurd. Having more than a twelve-pack of beer and
two friends over, in the eyes of the university, is an offense worthy of getting kicked out of housing in 72 hours. The university would rather have homeless students than to allow small get-togethers with over 21 year old individuals. UAA is doing everything in its power to restrict the experience of residents by imposing absolutely laughable rules. Students are not even allowed to have beer signs. Get real. Students should be responsible of course, but there is no reason that “parties” should be banned. This is one aspect of campus life that makes me want to move off campus; I’d rather deal with a landlord than pay thousands of dollars to get fucked over by this university time and time again.
A: I couldn’t agree more. Of course this is my personal opinion and not one that is endorsed by TNL. I think the rules and regulations surrounding appropriate alcohol consumption and small social gatherings need to be amended desperately at this university. Although, as we have seen time and time again, our lovely university prefers to make a profit rather than create an environment conducive to an enjoyable experience for its students. The people in power here at the university must not understand the basics of supply and demand. If the experience for students is
not enjoyable, then the students will stop coming to this school.
Q: Pinot noir or cabernet sauvignon?
A: I actually much prefer a chardonnay, but if I have to pick between the two, probably the cabernet.
Q: What are your thoughts on UAA talking about raising tuition another 3%?
A: More money for the University should ideally make our experience as students better. However, we shall see if that is actually the case. The real question is: Why does tuition need to increase when it feels like more and more courses are only being offered online?
Q: What’s your go to gas station haul?
A: Circle K: Buffalo Chicken roller, a Butterfinger and a blue raspberry slushie.
Q: Bro my ONLINE A+P class is requiring a TWO DAY lab intensive in KENAI which is three hours away. I had a trip planned during that time too! If an online class requires something in-person they should warn you. What if I lived in Minnesota or something?!
A: I couldn’t agree more. If a course is only offered online and in-person attendance is required when the rest of the course is entirely conducted on-
line, there should be a warning. I also think that your professor should be understanding of the fact that it is an online course and the requirement to show up in-person is something that you might be able to discuss with them. My advice is to reach out to ask if there is any way that you can still go on your trip, but not attend the in-person lab. Murat Demir wrote a wonderful story about the topic of in-person vs online courses that you can check out if you are interested.
Q: Do you think UAA administrators, UA administrators, and members of the Board of Regents are just willfully ignorant to the sorry state of their campuses across Alaska? Or do you think they are being intentionally malicious by doing the bare minimum they can to act like they care about the universities they’re supposed to be stewards of, holding onto their jobs while they continue to shaft students, staff, and faculty, all so they can hand themselves another big paycheck for doing a whole lot of fuck all?
A: I think assuming malicious intent on the part of our supreme leaders would be jumping the gun slightly. I do, however, completely understand the frustration with our current financial situations as students. Why is our experience at this school not as enjoyable as it could be
even though we pay exorbitant fees akin to that of any other state university? What is the difference between those schools and our school? How can we change our experience for the better and how can our leadership help us make everything better? At the end of the day, our administrators need to step up and recognize the mistakes that they have made, which have made many of the students here at the university feel stepped on.
Q: How do you feel about the start of this semester? What are the general vibes you get from walking about?
A: I won’t lie, I am beyond burnt-out. I am mentally ready to graduate, but only halfway done with my college experience. I guess doing school full-time, even during summer semesters, has finally caught up to me. This semester will be good though; I am determined to make it so. As for the vibes I get from walking around, I think it is still a little too soon to say. There are a lot of new faces around campus which is always good to see. Our community is growing, and I encourage all of you to say “hi” to at least one new person a day until you’ve met everyone. This environment can only flourish if we make it so. Let’s reverse this asocial behavior that was brought on by the COVID years.
