Vol.76_Issue 4

Collegedale News | 5

Opinion | 6

Religion | 6

Lifestyle | 7

Collegedale commissioner candidate profiles

To vote or not to vote: Does your ballot make a difference?

Listen with your heart

'A succession of moments': The process of living

September 23, 2020 Collegedale, Tennessee

Southern Accent

Vol. 76 Issue 4

The student voice since 1926

Student enrollment higher than predicted for Fall 2020

Some RAs and housekeepers desire pay similar to health screeners’

Zoe Kanas Lead Reporter In March, Southern Adventist University students were forced to evacuate campus and transition to distance learning due to the rapid spread of COVID-19 across the United States. Because of changes and concerns related to the pandemic, Southern administration feared a possible drop in enrollment.

Doug Frood, executive director of budgeting, said that enrollment projections for returning students for the Fall 2020 semester were exceeded.

In total, 2,730 students are enrolled for the fall.

In an email to employees, President David Smith highlighted the positive results at a time of societal upheaval.

“Given the more catastrophic scenarios we considered, we should each praise God for an enrollment result that allows us to vigorously pursue our mission with our full workforce intact,” he wrote. “Though we still have budgetary issues to address, we should praise the Lord for the wonderful student body with which God has See ENROLLMENT on page 3

Amanda Blake Lead Reporter Over the summer, some Southern Adventist University students began working as daily health assessment workers. According to Editorial Manager for Marketing and University Relations Janell Hullquist, a special task force of campus leaders—including medical personnel—established this new job alongside the Daily Health Assessment when campus began to reopen in July.

This_new_safety_measure requires students, staff and visitors who wish to enter campus buildings or participate in activities to take an online health survey and report to a temperature check station each day. The health assessment workers, commonly referred to as health

Though some students have referred to the pay health screeners receive as “hazard pay,” that is not true, according to Hullquist. screeners, work at these stations.

Some student workers have complained that their pay rates should be closer, equal to or even higher than the health screeners’_because_they_are working_what_they_consider to be more hazardous jobs on campus. Though the Southern Accent attempted to learn the

McKee Library celebrates 50th Anniversary, prepares for new renovations

Left: Construction for Mckee Library begins. Photo courtesy of Marketing and University Relations.

Right: Mckee Library today. Photo by Xander Ordinola.

Estefania Sanchez Lead Reporter This year marks the 50th anniversary_of_the_McKee_Library._ To_commemorate_its_grand opening_on_Thursday,_Sept.

24, 1970, McKee Library Director Deyse Bravo said librarians have something special planned for students on Thursday, the library’s anniversary.

Bravo said there are eight banners being displayed on the main floor of the library exploring its rich history of growth and innovation on Southern’s campus.

“We encourage everyone to visit the library [and] view these banners, which will be up all year long,” Bravo said.

To commemorate the library’s grand opening on Thursday, Sept. 24, 1970, Bravo said McKee librarians have something special planned for students on Thursday, the library’s anniversary.

Additionally, she said there will be large celebratory banners hanging from above the library entrance.

Due to the effects of COVID19, the library will not be able to hold a convocation as it had

originally planned. Instead, it will have individually wrapped treats for all students who visit the library on that day. Students can also participate in a scavenger hunt throughout the week leading up to the celebration. Anyone who completes the hunt will be entered to win a $50 Amazon gift card.

The celebration will continue into October, with the l i b r a r y _h o s t i n g _a n _e v e n t d u r i n g _t h i s _y e a r 's _ v i r t u a l _ Homecoming Weekend.

“This event, co-hosted by the Southern Scholars, will take See ANNIVERSARY on page 3

pay rates of certain positions, Hullquist_said_administration cannot comment on how much any individual earns on campus.

However,_some_students shared their own wages. According to senior nursing major Joanna Choi, her pay rate as a health screener is $10 per hour.

Her fellow health screener, freshman nursing major Rachel Helm, stated that she is making $9.25 per hour.

Though some students have referred to the pay health screeners receive as “hazard pay,” that is not true, according to Hullquist.

“The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines ‘hazard pay’ as ‘extra money that someone is paid for doing work that is dangerous,’”

Hullquist said. “Students are not being placed in campus jobs that would meet this definition. There are many factors that impact student pay rates for any campus job. Class standing, experience, level of responsibility and difficulty of filling a vital position are just a few examples.”

According to an email from Associate_Vice_President_for H u m a n _ R e s o u rc e s _ B re n d a Flores-Lopez, the COVID-19 pandemic presented challenges that required the university to make decisions that allowed for an “effective, responsible and feasible” reopening of campus.

“On the topic of compensaSee PAY on page 3

APF chapter sheds light on Matthew Rushin case Lesieli Heimuli Lead Reporter On Sept. 29, members of the Adventist Peace Fellowship (APF) Southern Chapter will demonstrate on campus on behalf of Matthew Rushin, a young, Black autistic male serving a 10 year-sentence following his involvement in a serious car crash back in 2019. The chapter is designating the date as “Matthew Rushin Day” to bring awareness to those who may not be familiar with his story.

So many people with autism get entirely overlooked constantly.

It’s a spectrum that we don’t understand, or many others [may] not understand.

According to The Washington Post, the 21-year old Virginia Beach native and college student was given a 50-year sentence after he was involved in a car crash that left a man seriously injured. Rushin’s sentence has now been reduced to 10 years; however his family and autism activists are still advocating for justice, claiming he did not intend to hurt anyone.

APF had its first meeting on Sept. 17, and the story of

Rushin was shared with current members.

“I hadn’t heard about Matthew Rushin’s story before,” said Lesieli Savelio, a freshman psychology-industrial/organization major and current member of APF. “I joined [APF] because I like what they stand for and how they want to fight for what is right.”

Elise_Deschamps,_a_junior public relations major and fellow Virginia Beach native, knew Rushin through mutual friends.

She said she met him during her_freshman_year_of_high school and had him as a friend on Snapchat for a while.

“He is super outgoing and super kind,” Deschamps said.

“I had a few conversations with him about progressive fashion and unfair gender roles and what not. From what I remember, he definitely struggled with anxiety and depression. We hadn’t spoken in a really long time when I heard about his case. I hate to say that I had no clue that no justice had been served until the case started trending on social media.”

When asked why APF chose to_cover_this_story,_Shayla Moguel-Coronel, a sophomore international development studies major and vice president of APF, said a lot of the cases the See RUSHIN on page 2

If you would like to be a contributor, contact Paola Mora at paolam@southern.edu

2 | Wednesday, September 23, 2020

NEWS School of Music works on plan for future performances

RUSHIN

continued from page 1 chapter has analyzed have been ones related to first responders and how they handle mental health issues.

“A lot of cases that we’ve been looking at have to do with how first responders would respond to problems that are more psychological,”_Moguel-Coronel said. “And they [may] not be well trained in those areas. So, with people who are dealing with specific episodes and police not [knowing] how to react well, it can lead to unfair court cases and unfair judgement.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control’s Autism and Developmental_ Disabilities Monitoring_(ADDM)_Network, approximately_one_in_59_chil-

dren in the United States have been identified as being on the autism spectrum.

“So many people with autism get entirely overlooked constantly,” said Isabella Eklund, a sophomore social work major and president of APF. “It’s a spectrum that we don’t understand, or many others [may] not understand. And media outlets that we found when we were looking to understand more of [Rushin’s] case totally ignored the fact that he was suffering from PTSD from a prior accident that left him in a coma for an entire week. Adventist Peace Fellowship’s goal is to advocate and to also be a resource of information so that people can educate themselves on current events and also have a foundation and a group of people that they know they can

trust and have this community of love with them.”

Flyers_have_been_posted around_campus_to_bring awareness to the Rushin case, and Eklund said APF members will be passing out pamphlets with QR codes and phone numbers for students to call to access information.

“This is not a club exclusive event," Eklund said. "This is using our resources to give Southern more resources.”

Those_who_have_questions about getting involved or want more information can follow APF on its Instagram account, @sau_ apf, or contact Eklund by email at_ieklund@southern.edu_or Moguel-Coronel at at mshayla@ southern.edu .

Josh Vollberg and Caitlin Jones wear masks as they practice for their steel drum class. Photo courtesy by Xander Ordinola.

Xavier Quiles Lead Reporter As Southern Adventist University continues its fifth week of classes, the Music Department is still determining how to continue performances. Due to the recent removal of both worship and cultural credits, a major incentive for students to attend certain performances, organizers predict audiences may also dwindle.

Ken Parsons, a professor in the School of Music, said performances held this semester will depend on the policy of the Collegedale Church of Seventh-day Adventists.

“We're not really doing a lot, partially because we don't know what the church's policy is going to be on allowing the public [into the sanctuary],” Parsons said.

The Collegedale Church of Seventh-day Adventists restarted its in-church services on Saturday, Sept. 12, but has not released any guidelines regarding public performances.

However, practice has continued with 10 feet distancing for the choir. Special masks have been made for playing wind instruments and the upcoming Pops Concert will be held at Goliath Wall.

According to Parsons, this is why performances haven’t been advertised. He said they will be livestreamed so people can tune in and listen. However, he also realizes that some students may not do that because there isn’t credit.

“I think [that only] students who have a genuine interest will

take the time to do that,” Parsons said.

Junior music major Bailey Krall said she thinks seniors in her department will be affected the most because only faculty and family will be allowed to attend their recitals.

We're not really doing a lot, partially because we don't know what the church's policy is going to be on allowing the public [into the sanctuary].

“Your senior recital is kind of like the culmination of your whole experience at Southern,” Krall said. “And not even just at Southern, but the years that you've spent practicing and preparing…We really put a lot of time into practicing and preparing, and it's really special to be able to share it.”

Junior_music_major_Erica Robinson said that while there may be difficulties going forward, being able to still play music is wonderful.

“I love that every day when I come to the music building, there's music coming from all corners of the building," Robinson said. "It's one of the most special feelings, and I'm very happy to be back and happy that we can make music together.”

Corrections and Clarification The Southern Accent takes complaints about inaccuracy seriously.

To fix errors or misinformation, we will publish, with some limited exceptions, corrections or clarifications. To report mistakes, email us at accent@southern.edu or reach us through our social media accounts.

Southern Accent The Accent encourages readers to write articles and voice their opinions.

However, the views expressed do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Accent, Southern Adventist University, or the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

APF members pray before starting their chapter's meeting. Photo courtesy by Xander Ordinola

Student-led SMARRT fund continues to provide varied learning opportunities amidst COVID-19

L-R: Garrett Barnes, Seth Creason, Miles Mitchell, Braam Oberholster, Alexis Schultz, Joshua Michalski and Chris Won. Photo by Xander Ordinola.

Elise Deschamps Lifestyle Editor The_Student_Managed Asset_Risk_and_Return_Training (SMARRT) fund, a program designed to help students analyze the stock market and understand the process of making real investments, continued despite COVID-19 shutting down in-person meetings in March.

“We kept pushing forward,” said Southern alumnus Niraj Patel, last year’s vice president for economics for the SMARRT fund team. “We had weekly meetings via Zoom with the team and faculty advisors and kept moving to finish our research so that the new upcoming team (now current) would have a nice cushion to work from.”

Patel was responsible for looking into current economic events and_determining_how_those events would affect the team’s

Lifestyle Editor Elise Deschamps Editor-in-Chief Paola Mora Zepeda

Opinion Editor Paula Macena

Managing Editor Qualyn Robinson

Religion Editor Sarah Klingbeil

For any questions, comments, and article submission information email us at accent@southern.edu

News Editor Taylor Dean

Sports Editor Zach Roberts

For all advertising inquiries, email studentadmgr@southern.edu

Collegedale News Editor Bailey DuBose

Photo Editor Xander Ordinola

portfolio of potential investments. The team observed many trends such as interest rates, unemployment rates and the gross domestic product (GDP).

Then, they created and reviewed an economic report that helped them make clearer decisions about their investments.

“The student analysis reports came out in April with recommendations for investments.

Towards the latter part of May, investment decisions were made,” said faculty advisor Braam Oberholster. “The students were engaged way past the close of school.”

According_to_Oberholster, close to $500,000 was invested in shares from different sectors of the economy. By the end of August, the value of the team’s investments was around $562,000 to $563,000.

Copy Editors Megan Yoshioka Christina Coston

However, the SMARRT fund teaches more than just stock analysis and investment strategy.

“SMARRT has taught me a lot about how to create a brand from scratch,” said Alexis Schultz, a senior business administration major and SMARRT fund’s current vice president for marketing.

“This included creating platforms, designing a logo and onboarding new recruits. It has helped me increase my time management and communication skills.”

Students are not paid for being on the team, but they still dedicate their time to learning and keeping the project going.

“The students are putting [in] a lot of extra effort—hours, hours every week,” Oberholster said. “The students have made good decisions.”

Web Manager Timothy Morgan

Lead Reporters María José Morán Amanda Blake Aubri Dancek Estefania Sanchez Gia Arroyo Lesieli Heimuli Zoe Kanas Xavier Quiles

Circulation Manager Samuel Mora Zepeda

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For more related news, visit our website at southern-accent.org

3 | Wednesday, September 23, 2020

NEWS ANNIVERSARY continued from page 1

place Friday, Oct. 30, and will feature [alumnus and Southern Scholar] Zane Yi, who will present a talk titled Empowered by Knowledge,” Bravo said.

In addition to celebrating its 50th anniversary, the library

replaced its original windows.

This past summer, the 50-yearold windows were replaced with modern, energy efficient upgrades. According to Bravo, along with these changes, the library is scheduled to undergo an exterior facelift that will modernize the aesthetics of the

building. This process is scheduled to begin May 2021.

While COVID-19 has greatly changed accessibility to the library, Bravo wants students to know the library is ready to help them no matter what the circumstance.

“We can help you with your

Scan the QR to read the Southern Accent's 1969 and 1970 coverage of Mckee Library's construction and grand opening.

Construction of Mckee Library prior to the opening on September 24, 1970.

Photo courtesy of Marketing and University Relations Department.

PAY

continued from page 1 tion for certain jobs that have developed as a result of COVID19, readers should know that Southern evaluated needs carefully and made decisions, taking into consideration safety, longterm feasibility and finances, which included the importance of remaining consistent with our student employment pay structure,” Flores-Lopez wrote.

Still, some Southern students believe their jobs could now be considered dangerous due to COVID-19 and wish their pay were more similar to that of the health screeners.

Senior nursing major Stephanie Trinidad works as a residential assistant (RA) in the Southern Village. According to Trinidad, her pay rate as an RA began at $8.25 per hour and has increased by 25 cents each year she has worked as an RA. “I really think we should get

a pay rate similar to the health screeners,” Trinidad said. “I feel like we have more exposure to COVID because when we walk into these people’s homes, none of them are wearing masks.”

Trinidad added that she is afraid of catching COVID-19 when she does night checks because she does not know where anyone has been or how many people they have interacted with.

Just because the RA position wasn’t created as a result of COVID doesn’t mean that there aren’t risks involved.

Junior public relations and graphic design major Camryn Clark works as an RA in Thatcher Hall. She also said RAs should make the same pay as the health screeners. From Clark’s perspec-

research through one-on-one research_coaching_appointments,_our_‘Ask_a_Librarian’ system and even chat,” Bravo said.“Please take advantage of our plethora of resources.”

tive, RAs have an increased risk of coming in contact with COVID-19 because they are required to perform many social tasks including night checks, interacting with other RAs, going to worships and working at the front desk.

“Just because the RA position wasn’t created as a result of COVID doesn’t mean that there aren’t risks involved,” Clark said.

Another risk that RAs face, according to Associate Dean of Men John Sager, is checking with students who are not wearing masks during a fire drill. However, Sager has not yet heard any complaints from RAs concerning their pay this semester.

Similarly,_housekeeping supervisor Amy DeWind has not heard complaints from her staff. According to housekeeping employee Cierra Dabney, DeWind and Talge housekeeping supervisor Jenny Spicer are “really good bosses who are always willing to make situations

easier and more comfortable.”

Still, from Dabney’s perspective, housekeepers have always been underpaid, and this problem has worsened with COVID19. She said that housekeeping is a physically demanding job and workers make contact with many people and their trash.

According to Dabney, some student workers in Talge Hall sanitize the downstairs quarantine halls.

“When it comes to putting our lives at risk, we should be making way more than the minimum,” Dabney said.

According to Hullquist, Human Resources generally does not share wage information with anyone other than the employee.

However, Hullquist said that due to the various factors that contribute to a student’s pay rate, an ‘average pay rate’ could be calculated in various different ways.

ENROLLMENT continued from page 1

blessed us and our ongoing financial stability.”

In later communication with the Accent, the President’s Cabinet explained that this is an unusual year, which makes it difficult to measure enrollment by the usual metrics.

On a nationwide scale, it was predicted that colleges would lose a large portion of their enrollment. In an article about a survey conducted by Inside Higher Ed, Scott Jaschik wrote that_four-year _institutions could see a drop of up to 20 percent in enrollment. The survey also concluded that while some students said they would not be returning to on-campus learning, many of those students were equally unsatisfied with online learning. Alternative plans such as gap years and hybrid learning were also evaluated, with popularity rising for both of those options.

Michael_T._Nietzal,_a_contributor_to_Forbes_magazine, wrote_that_enrollment_has increased across the country despite the current COVID-19 pandemic. Online learning has become even more prevalent, with many students opting to take college courses all-online.

Undergraduate enrollment in both public and private nonprofit four-year colleges was driven by students aged 18-20, and by high school dual enrollees, with 8 percent and 17 percent growth, respectively (Source: Forbes). “ We’re_doing_things_that nobody_has_a_roadmap_for,” Frood said. “But I think in our leadership, everybody has done a terrific job to figure it out.”

SPORTS

And then there were four

NFL week 2 rounds out in style Xavier Snyder Contributor

Davy Ondrejka Contributor In the West, it’s down to just the Denver Nuggets and the L.A. Lakers. The Nuggets are coming off an impressive comeback against the Clippers who had a 3-1 lead in the series. For most of the playoffs the Nuggets have been written off but Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray have shown that no matter how many games they are down they can regain focus and come back. The Lakers, except for just two games, have dominated the competition.

The Lakers came to play for the first two games of the series taking a two-game lead on the Nuggets.

Don’t be shocked if the Nuggets hoist a comeback later in the series. If we have learned anything about the Nuggets this year it's to not underestimate their ability to close a fight.

In the East, it’s down to the Miami Heat and the Boston Celtics. Miami has been dominant so far in the playoffs. Going into the Eastern Conference finals the Heat had only lost one game.

Boston, on the other hand, had a few struggles. Having to go to game seven with the Toronto Raptors, the Celtics had some wondering if they are ready to make it to the finals. Right off the bat, the Celtics looked like

Miami has been dominant so far in the playoffs. Going into the Eastern Conference finals the Heat had only lost one game. the ones on fire. They played great in the first half of game one, but then choked the third quarter, giving the game to the Heat. Game two went the same way, and the Celtics needed to answer in game three. And they did. Never trailing, the Celtics were able to cool off the Heat a little and give themselves a chance to try and tie up the series before it’s too late.

Week 2 of the NFL kicked off with very few fans at Paul Brown Stadium to watch Browns vs._Bengals._On_ Thursday Night Football, the Baker Mayfield-led Browns took the win by five points, but rookie Bengals QB Joe Burrow also played extremely well with 316 yards and three touchdowns on the night. The Bengals were only an onside kick recovery away from possibly coming back.

As it turned out, 29-10 was not too different from 21-3, and the Cowboys were able to come back and win the game by a field goal.

On Sunday, teams like the Steelers and Titans were able to win to go to 2-0. In Chicago, the Bears’ defense bailed out Mitch Trubisky’s inconsistencies.

In Green Bay, the Packers won big against the Detroit Lions.

Also among those winning big in Week 2 were the 49ers, Rams and Ravens, winning by an average of 18 points between those three games.

Week 2 saw a few close games as well. The Chiefs managed to win by a field goal in Los Angeles.

In this game, the Chargers had a chance to score first in OT, but the Chiefs were the ones to finish the game off. Another great game to watch was the Falcons vs. Cowboys. Dallas started the game with three fumbles in the first half while Atlanta enjoyed a lead of 29-10. As it turned out, 29-10 was not too different from 21-3, and the Cowboys were able to come back and win the game by a field goal.

The Patriots and Seahawks put on a very entertaining show on Sunday night, with Seattle’s defense preventing Cam Newton from scoring a game-winning touchdown with no time left. Also, among those winning in Week 2 were the Bucs, Bills, Colts and Cardinals.

Teams compete for spots in MLB 2020 playoffs Zach Roberts Sports Editor The MLB season has reached its final week with between 6 to 10 games left, depending on the team. There are a number of things to look for as the COVID-19 shortened season comes to a close.

Playoff races are heating up.

The Braves, Marlins and Phillies

are all within striking distance of winning the NL East. The Cubs, Cardinals, Reds and Brewers could all take the NL Central crown. In the NL West, the San Diego Padres could be the first team since the San Francisco Giants in 2012 to beat the Dodgers for the division title.

In the AL East, it’s going to

If Dodgers outfielder Mookie Betts takes home MVP, he’ll be the second player ever to win in both leagues.

come down to the Tampa Bay Rays and the New York Yankees, who are just within striking distance. The White Sox, Indians and Twins are fighting for the top spot.

The American League batting title is something to watch. If Yankees infielder DJ LeMahieu beats out White Sox shortstop

Tim Anderson, he will become the first player to win the batting title in both leagues. In the National League, if Dodgers outfielder Mookie Betts takes home MVP, he’ll be the second player ever to win in both leagues.

4 | Wednesday, September 23, 2020

If you would like to be a contributor, contact Paola Mora at paolam@southern.edu

NEWS

Moonlight Film Fest

Sonia Joy, Josh Perez, Bryant Oei, Marco Swaisgood, Byron Montenegro, Jaira Luna, Sam Kumendong and Natasya Panjaitan. Photo by Rence Arroyo.

Hannah Moyer takes students' pictures in the photo booth.

Photo by Xander Ordinola.

Southern couple waits their turn for the photo booth. Photo by Xander Ordinola.

Sam Oliveira and Jasmin Mendez hand out Clumpies gift cards. Photo by Xander Ordinola.

Cameron Gustman answers questions about his movie, "This Old Dog." His short film took the first place prize in this Saturday's events.

Photo by Xander Ordinola.

Crowds watches the short film "Melodia," produced by film production junior Evelin Velinova. Photo by Xander Ordinola.

5 | Wednesday, September 23, 2020

For more related news, visit our website at southern-accent.org

COLLEGEDALE NEWS 2020 Elections: Collegedale Commissioner Candidate Profiles Aubri Dancek and Bailey DuBose Lead Reporter and Collegedale News Editor In the upcoming Nov. 3 general election, three Collegedale Commissioner seats are up for grabs. According to the City of Collegedale website, five commissioners are elected to staggered four-year terms. After

the commissioners are elected, the mayor and vice mayor are chosen by the commissioners rather than the citizens. The responsibilities for the commissioners include voting on city ordinances and resolutions.

This year, there are seven candidates running for Collegedale Commission._Each_candidate was asked a series of questions by the Southern Accent and the information below was provided by them.

To_register_to_vote_and_to learn more about this year’s election,_visit_the_Hamilton County_ Election_Committee’s_website_ at_Elect.HamiltonTN.gov.

Alexander Brown As commissioner, Brown wants to focus on economic growth opportunities. Brown believes that new generational leadership is needed to make Collegedale more beautiful.

“I trust that by undertaking infrastructure improvements, expansion of the Greenway,

by keeping taxes and our building codes at a reasonable level, using green technology, and by ongoing beautification projects we can attract new businesses to bring jobs and services that enhance our entire community,” Brown said.

Chris Twombley Chris Twombley has been the director of information technology at Girls Preparatory School for the past year, he also volunteers as an advanced EMT for the Tri-County Fire Department. Twombley was raised in Collegedale and wants to use his talents to bring trans-

parency and accountability to the city’s leadership.

If elected, Twombley wants to focus on increasing business development by incentivizing developers based on a location’s occupancy and image compliance.

“Empty buildings detract more

than they contribute,” Twombley said. “Without guided development, we will be overshadowed by the surrounding communities and eventually lost. Growth is inevitable, but we can guide it to ensure its direction without losing our identity.”

Debbie Baker Current Collegedale Commissioner, Debbie Baker is employed with the Dalton Public School System and has lived in Collegedale since July 1999. She has served as president of the James County Historical Society and on the board of Children’s Rights and

Concern Initiative.

Baker has worked with commissioners and city managers to promote parks and recreation and served Collegedale through numerous volunteer opportunities. She hopes to continue to use her knowledge and wisdom earned from life

experiences to help the citizens of Collegedale.

“I would like to have the opportunity to serve another term as one of our commissioners and continue to be a strong voice for the people of Collegedale,” Baker said.

Johnnie Hoskins Johnnie Hoskins has been a resident of Collegedale since 2013 and works in the planning department of a local trucking company. Hoskins and his wife, Ashley, have been involved with the Tri-Community Volunteer Fire Department since 2007.

Hoskins also has volunteered

with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Chattanooga.

If elected, Hoskins wants to add more parks in conjunction with the Collegedale Tomorrow Foundation and local donors, expand the Greenway and create a bike sharing program with docks throughout Collegedale.

“As a commissioner, I understand that my role will be that of a legislator, to offer ideas, to advise management and to vote on budgets that support important priorities,” Hoskins said.

Katie Lamb Current Collegedale Mayor Katie Lamb has been a resident of Collegedale for 48 years. Lamb started teaching nursing at Southern Adventist University in 1972 and retired in 2006, having served as assistant vice president for academics and dean of the

graduate school.

In 2009, Lamb ran for city commissioner to serve Collegedale because she had an interest in politics and public service. Her reason for pursuing another four years remains the same.

“Collegedale is one of the

fastest growing and safest cities in Tennessee,” Lamb said. “It is important that this growth is managed in such a way that it doesn’t distract from the natural beauty and charm of the area.”

Matthew Sadler Matthew Sadler has been a lifetime resident of Hamilton County and has lived in Collegedale since 2015. Sadler is a radio network analyst for the City of Chattanooga, working in support of the Tennessee Valley Regional Communications System.

Sadler always had an interest in local politics. For 18 months, he has regularly attended Collegedale commission meetings, workshops and planning commission meetings.

If voted in, Sadler wants to focus on transparency, honesty and the city’s financial issues.

“I know that you can wait for something to change, or you can work to effect change, and I decided to try to effect change by running for the Commission,” Sadler said.

Tim Johnson Current Collegedale Vice Mayor Tim Johnson has lived in Collegedale for over 20 years along with his family. Johnson works at Cigna as a national accounts manager, he also has served the community as an advanced EMT since 1982.

If elected, Johnson would enhance outdoor recreational activities with local parks spread out in the community, add to the Greenway space and build a community room at The Commons.

“Over the next four years,

I would focus on these three projects,” Johnson said. “I will work with community leaders seeking donations to assist in funding these projects. We can get this accomplished with my help as a commissioner.”

Collegedale 2020 Commissioner Candidates

Alexander Brown is a realtor with Heritage Homes and Lands and a third-generation Collegedale_resident._Brown has_served_on_the_Planning Commission, Design and Review Committee_ and_ Parks_ and Recreation Advisory Board for the City of Collegedale.

6 | Wednesday, September 23, 2020

If you would like to be a contributor, contact Paola Mora at paolam@southern.edu

OPINION

November election: To vote or not to vote?

Paula Macena Opinion Editor This year’s presidential election has had intense and world-changing events leading up to it, and it seems that the stakes are higher than ever.

Southern Adventist University and many other colleges are encouraging students to exercise their right to vote. However, students continue to hold their own opinions on the matter.

A recent poll performed on the Accent’s Instagram account asked “Will you be voting in this year’s_presidential_election?”

Out of 233 students who voted, 191 voted yes while 42 voted no.

When asked why, many students pointed to our current president, Donald Trump, as a primary reason for why it’s so urgent that everyone vote on Nov. 3.

From the way 2020 has been going, I think Gen Z has started to realize the importance of voting and how much of a difference our votes could make.

“We literally can’t afford for Trump to go through another term,” said Yaretzy Almaraz, a sophomore nursing major.

Others who responded in favor of voting emphasized the important role that young people play in politics, especially in the election.

“I didn’t start thinking about

politics until this presidency,” said Lila Odhiambo, a sophomore mass communication major. “And I know for a fact that I, and others in Gen Z, have recognized that we need change, and [that] our voices matter. From the way 2020 has been going, I think Gen Z has started to realize the importance of voting and how much of a difference our votes could make.”

Forty-two students indicated in the poll that they did not intend on exercising their right to vote in the upcoming election.

“Personally, I think that knowing where this country is heading based on the Bible, I should just pray for God’s leading, but I don’t have to vote,” said Jeremiah Samuel, a senior theology major. “God is the One who sets leaders up and takes them down. I think I can be confident that He’ll put the person who needs to be president in office if I don’t vote. I’m not saying that voting is wrong or that we as Adventists shouldn’t vote, but I do think that we’re not obligated to.”

Nov. 3 is coming up fast.

There are different sides to every story, and the side you choose in this one may decide the fate for the entire country.

Whether you choose to vote or not, we should all do our best to educate ourselves and to keep up with the relevant and ever-changing political topics in the United States.

RELIGION God wants to answer your questions, just listen to your heart Emily Rojas Contributor Sometimes it’s difficult to hear God’s voice when there are many other voices around us. One of the worst feelings is longing for God’s answer in a particular situation, but not seeming to receive one. I’ve found myself trapped in this cycle throughout my walk with Christ. When a problem arose, I’d turn to Christ. I would bring my problem to Jesus, but He wasn’t giving me an answer.

Hadn’t I done all I needed to do?

There’s a danger that I may be turning to Christ out of custom instead of belief in His power. I’ve grown up doing this. I’ve been told repeatedly to pray. Naturally, it’s become my first option, but I had to take a minute to think about this routine.

The world wants to give us answers to our problems, but it will not give us the rest God promises.

Although I was making Jesus my first choice in adversity, I wasn’t making Him my only choice. After praying for an answer, I would use logic to try and answer it myself. If that didn’t suffice, I would seek other people’s perspectives, secretly hoping to hear a voice that appealed to me. I would ask Him for divine wisdom, but instead of letting Him answer, I would quickly turn away. I wasn’t seeking God’s will wholeheartedly.

Have you ever found yourself doing this? Maybe you’re struggling to search for God wholeheartedly in the same

way I did. It’s a good place to be if you’ve acknowledged this. Here are three steps that God invites us to take in order to sincerely seek His will.

The first step is an invitation to surrender. Matthew 11:28 says, “Come to me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” I don’t know about you, but choosing between decisions makes me feel burdened. It overtakes my thoughts, and as a result, it distracts me from the rest of my life.

God doesn’t want us to feel overwhelmed by problems.

He asks us to surrender those issues by giving them over to Him completely! God wants to work in our lives, but we need to let go of the problem entirely to let Him take control entirely.

The second step is an invitation to patience. In the college culture, it seems that we are constantly starting something as we’re still finishing another.

We’re so used to the rush, but God asks us to slow down.

Romans 12:12 says, “Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.”

When we hit a problem, it can be our wish to move past it as soon as possible. But by inviting us to have patience, God is asking us to learn to trust His timing. Receiving God’s answer can take as little as a second or as long as many decades. As we practice patience in our trials, we will learn that God is answering our prayers in the best possible way at the best possible time.

Finally, in the third step, God invites us to rest. 2 Corinthians 4:16 says, “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” The unknown can cause many people to worry.

This is why God longs to give us knowledge that will provide us with rest. The world wants to give us answers to our problems, but it will not give us the rest God promises. Accept His invitation today by resting in His word.

In order to hear God’s voice, we must allow our will to die and His plan to live within us.

We must seek Him with our

whole heart by giving up our problems, patiently waiting for His response and resting in His knowledge.

Dear friend, God wants to answer your questions. He wants to lead you to the right path. He wants to help you make the right decision. He only requires one thing: that you seek Him with your whole heart.

For more related news, visit our website at southern-accent.org

7 | Wednesday, September 23, 2020

LIFESTYLE

‘A succession of moments:’ The process of living Saria Smith Contributor We should always be yearning to learn. This idea is simple yet often lost in our minds.

Corita Kent, an American Roman Catholic nun, explored this idea in a way that should be easily understood by all people. Kent served her community through art, design and education. She touched on themes such as Christianity and social justice in her work throughout the 50s and 60s, greatly inspired by Andy Warhol and popular culture.

Within her fantastic works, Kent created a comprehensive list titled, “Some Rules for Students and Teachers.” It consists of 10 rules, plus one hint, to assist and guide us through

the world of academia and life as a whole.

This list considers the process of creation and the subsequent mindset that encourages_many_students_and teachers to capitalize on their college experience. Each rule touches on its own valued position. Through this list, Kent impresses on our minds the idea of thoughtfulness. Even more so, to be intentional by putting our all into academia, knowledge and skill.

The world of academia is here to grow minds and allow for the fortification of knowledge and spirit. Yet, too often our drive is trampled by fear, insecurity and sleep deprivation.

This list calls us to trust and expect the most from those who teach us and to do the same for ourselves. Like rule six states, nothing is a mistake.

Yet self-doubt is often the factor that leads directly to fault and creates an unwillingness to even try.

Rule seven presents us with a direct challenge: work. Many people wish to get by with minimal effort. However, Kent claims that we ought to strive not only to make it through, but to thrive. Be everywhere and do everything as much as possible!

College is our lives. We should be proud of ourselves and our accomplishments. We

should strive to work better and smarter, not necessarily harder. Kent understood how we hold ourselves back in our collegiate life, both as students and professors.

It is a time to enjoy the balance of work and play in a healthy environment that fosters growth. Nothing is holding us back except for our own unwillingness to strive for greatness. From a biblical view, to live thoughtfully and vivaciously should be a blessing.

We need to take a breath.

In through the nostrils, one… two…three, and out through the mouth, one…two…three.

With that breath, let’s take a step toward intentionally

SOCIAL MEDIA

For a chance to be featured, use #saulife or tag @sauaccent on Instagram or Twitter in your posts!

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exploring this fantastic life that God has given us. This list is simply a guide to help train our minds. To push for our best is to treat ourselves and others with the utmost respect. To be passive and sedentary would be our greatest fault. Our success depends on our choices and our willingness to let our innate love of learning guide us. Success is already within us, and it’s easier to attain than presumed. As Kent said, “Life is a succession of moments. To live each one is to succeed.”

So let us live well with our hearts and minds open.

#SAUlife Susie Kim

Jaira Luna

Rence Arroyo @notrence I’m living for this cool weather

Joel Guerra @j8war Construction majors should be allowed to skip class to go build the Bietz Center

Jaira Luna @jairuuuh the nurse I’m working with today was talking to herself and she said “sleeping for 2 days straight do be sounding good honestly” I felt that.

mewsushi Couldn’t stop smiling yesterday

jai.luna if you didn’t take pictures in Chatt with the

#SAUlife

bridge in the background, did you even go? #SAUlife

Nicole Sabot

Miranda Delgado

Karen Guerra @kfcguerra normalize me having more than 2 friends.

Monica Mendoza @monicafoorever Idk who need to hear this right now but please save your changes in Microsoft Word right now.

nicole.sabot thrifting without dressing rooms is DIFFICULT #SAUlife

Congratulations @imagine4asec!

Come pick up your gift card in the Accent office.

Jonathan Diaz

miranda_isabellee my face when they bring back the pumpkin spice latte at Starbucks … #SAUlife

Jessica Galdamez

Kevin is looking to go shopping this weekend. Find him in this issue to receive a,

$10 Walmart Gift Card!

DM us on Instagram with a photo of where Kevin is hiding in this issue for a chance to win! jonnydiaz7 …never forget the greatest law is Love #SAUlife

jamileethh The few people who can actually tolerate my stupidity ;) ly babes #SAUlife

If you would like to be a contributor, contact Paola Mora at paolam@southern.edu

8 | Wednesday, September 23, 2020

CHATTER

Check out our new website!

Today 23 57-75

11:30 a.m. – Constitution Week 5:00 p.m. – Flag Football Capitain’s Meeting 7:30 p.m. – SA Senate

Friday 25 64-73

9:00 a.m. – SA Smile Initiative 7:30 p.m. – Ministerial Candidate Recognition 6:30 & 8:00 p.m. – Student Missions Vespers 7:32 p.m. – Sunset 8:00 p.m. – Star Watch

Sunday 27 63-81

2:00 p.m. – Psychology Major Field Test

www.southern-accent.org Thursday 24 11:00 a.m. – Critical Conversations, Kevin Burton, Adventists and Social Justice 3:30 p.m. – Graduate Council 5:30 p.m. – Student Organization Treasurer’s Orientation

Saturday

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26

64-81 9:00 a.m. – Connect, Goliath Wall 9:00 a.m. – Outdoor Family Sabbath School, Student Park 9:30 a.m. – Ministerial Candidate Recognition 10:30 a.m. – Adoration: Pastor David Ferguson, Student Park 10:30 a.m. – Collegiate Sabbath School, facebook.com/theexperiencecollegedale/ 11:00 a.m. – Ministerial Candidate Recognition 11:45 a.m. – Merge, mergeatsau.com & Live in the Tent 11:45 a.m. – Renewal: Pastor David Ferguson, Renewal Livestream & Live in Church 7:30 p.m. – Evensong 7:30 p.m. – Sunset 8:30 p.m. – All Night Softball Tournament

Monday 28 Flag Football Begins Last day for 60% tuition refund 3:30 p.m. – University Senate

Tuesday 29 52-75

8:00 p.m. – Chapel, Thatcher Hall Chapel

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Weekly Birthdays TODAY|23

Nicole Robertson

Emily Freeman

Sheryl Kambuni

Wonderful Tinungki

Matthew Gorton

Hayden Rigsby

Katie Zoch

Esteban Grajales

Mariddy Sanchez

Saturday |26

Monday |28

Morgan Stevenson

Kaely Argueta Lutz

Gabby Alvarez

Josue Vega

Tina Baker

Stephanie Hale

Thursday |24

Marie Anne Fernandez Claudine Morana

Brendan Gay

Patricia Griffith

Lamont Taylor

Kensley Mace

Alyssa Kim

Tuesday |29

Ruth Perez

Leilani Lee

Adam Bellis

Avner Shryer

Hannah Moravetz

Condrasheera Joao

Katelynn Webster

Anna Belle Stephens

Taylor Maddox

Friday |25

Sunday |27

Jessica Nephew

Garrett Barnes

Ryan Cox

Midrene Saint Eroi

Elisabet Espinoza

Nathan Dickerhoff

Andrew Retz

Kathleen Djami

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