Vol. 79 Issue 7

Mental Health | 7

Opinion | 8

Religion | 8

Lifestyle | 9

Students invited to mental health event

Christian circles are not immune to sexual and domestic abuse

Sonnets of creation

Sourcing all my new clothes secondhand in 2023

October 25, 2023 Collegedale, Tennessee

Southern Accent

Vol. 79 Issue 7

The student voice since 1926

Impact of Israel-Hamas war echoes throughout Collegedale and Southern Adventist University On-campus conference fosters religious liberty dialogue Emma Rodriguez Reporter

Michael Moyer engages in a moment of silence for those impacted by the Israel-Hamas war. The moment was part of a prayer event organized by Southern's Adventist Peace Fellowship chapter. Friday, October 20, 2023 (Photo by Adam De Lisser)

Marian Polanco Reporter Ty Gibson and David Assherick, well-known Seventh-day Adventist pastors and co-directors of the Collegedale-based “Lightbearers” ministry, were in Jordan leading a “Holy Land” tour when the Palestinian militant group Hamas launched an attack on Israel. The raid began a war in the Middle East that has killed about 1,400 individuals in Israel and more than 5,000 in Gaza as of Oct. 23, according to the United Nations (UN).

“Early Sabbath morning, Oct. 7, we visited Mount Nebo, where Moses was laid to rest by God after looking out over the Promised Land he would never enter,

Smoke and flames billow after Israeli forces struck a high-rise tower in Gaza City.

Israel launched airstrikes into Gaza after an unexpected attack by the Palestinian militant group Hamas. Saturday, October 7, 2023. (Photo by Palestinian News & Information Agency WAFA in contract with APAimages)

only to then be resurrected and taken to the heavenly Canaan after a battle ensued over his body between Satan and the pre-incarnate Christ (Jude 1:9),” Gibson wrote in a Facebook post following the attack. “David and I both heard explosions in the distance while we stood with our group on Mount Nebo.”

Gibson continued to describe how the tour group quickly mobilized to return home as family and friends began texting them details of the escalating conflict, urging them to get out.

“My daughter Amber, who was with us for the first tour and had departed, texted me: ‘You need to come home,’” Gibson wrote.

Each of the 161 individuals in the group successfully booked

flights and made it home “safe and sound,” Gibson later posted. After returning home, Asscherick uploaded a live video on Instagram with Gibson, where they both reflected on the experience.

The recent conflict in Israel and Gaza has reverberated far beyond the Middle East, affecting communities worldwide. Southern Adventist University is no exception, with students and professors taking action to discuss the war and pray for those impacted.

According to information on the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) website, Hamas is an Islamist militant movement and one of the Palestinian territories’ two major political parties. The group is best known for its armed resis-

tance against Israel, the website explains. Hamas’ attack on Israel was unprecedented in tactics and scale, CNN reported.

In response to the initial attack, Israel declared war against Hamas and implemented an aid blockade in Gaza, cutting off water, food and supplies. Since Oct. 7, the two sides of the conflict have “traded daily rocket fire,” CFR reported. Approximately two million people live in the 140-square-mile Gaza Strip territory, making it one of the most densely populated areas in the world, according to an article published on CNN’s website.

Landon Asscherick, son of David Assherick, is a junior busiSee ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR on page 2

The North American Division (NAD) Public Affairs and Religious Liberty ministry hosted a conference titled "Reconstructing Religious Liberty in a Time of Religious and Secular Extremes" last weekend. The event, held at the Collegedale Church of Seventh-day Adventists in partnership with Southern Adventist University, explored new ways to talk about religious freedom within a culturally and politically polarized America.

The conference featured a diverse lineup of speakers, including academics, theologians and religious freedom experts. Among the speakers were David French, a New York Times columnist; Leslie Pollard, president of Oakwood University; Samuel Perry, author of “The Flag and the Cross”, Shirley Hoogstra, president of the Council for Christian Colleges & Universities; Pastor Ivor Myers, lead pastor of Living Manna See LIBERTY on page 2

Collegedale News on page 5 Collegedale’s property tax increase & New vegetarian restaurant opens

Exploring different views School of Nursing awaits Miller Hall on intercollegiate sports renovation to gain more clinical space Alissa Flores Staff Writer Students and faculty at Southern Adventist University have discussed the idea of intercollegiate sports being established on campus for some time.

Intramurals are the main sports activity at Southern, but some students wonder why intercollegiate sports are not allowed.

One student who voiced this concern was Aman Javaid, sophomore nursing major.

“Competitive sports can help teach students important values such as integrity, responsibility and perseverance,” Javaid said. “Sports help students develop good leadership skills.”

When asked about intercollegiate sports at Southern, Carlos Torres, a student ambassador, junior psychology and marketing major and avid sports player, said, “The reason I'm for competitive sports is simply because our school [and] our student body wants it. Not only our student body, but people who are considering Southern [want it].”

According to Torres, upon coming to the university, many prospective students ask whether or not there will be an opportunity to play intercollegiate sports.

“I work in the admissions department giving tours, and that's one of the questions that we get the most ,” Torres said.

“We’re losing so many people, so much interest.”

Intramurals at Southern are popular, and student participation in them is increasing, according to Jason Merryman, vice president of Enrollment Management.

"It is true that prospective students often inquire about intercollegiate sports when considering Southern,” said Merryman. “For most new and current students, our intramural programs satisfy the urge to be active in sports.

“Last year, nearly 1,300 students participated in both fall and winter semesters,” Merryman continued.

“This year, we appear to be ahead of that participation rate and on track to have the largest year yet for intramural student participation.”

Southern’s Marketing and University Relations department and School of Health and Kinesiology wrote a statement together on why the school does not offer intercollegiate sports: “The highly competitive and selective nature of intercollegiate athletic programs and their strong probability for financial drain are not in harmony with the values of Southern Adventist University.

The institution does not promote intercollegiate athletics and does not participate in or allow on campus any intercollegiate athletic event, interscholastic sport (K-12), friendship tournament, or other competitive sport event that would lay a foundation for intercollegiate athletics.”

See SPORTS on page 2

Celeste Lee Staff Writer Southern Adventist University is planning to renovate Miller Hall to provide more facilities for the School of Nursing in January, pending fundraising results, according to Marty Hamilton, associate vice president for Financial Administration.

Holly Gadd, dean of the School of Nursing, is hopeful the project will be completed soon. However, according to Hamilton, the project still needs administration’s final approval.

Hamilton said until fundraising is complete, the university can't start renovating.

Gadd would like Miller Hall to become a new simulation lab, which would provide more space and time slots for simulations so undergraduate and graduate students can practice in a safe and less stressful environment. The lab would help build their confidence because they can make mistakes without causing harm, according to Gadd.

“Students gain confidence and competence by doing things [and]

by being able to be involved with making the decisions and carrying out the skills,” she said.

Currently, the School of Nursing has three simulation areas in AdventhHealth Hall: two rooms and a small corner of the skills lab designated for simulations. Gadd said the simulation areas are busy throughout the week. The lack of simulation space and times keeps the nursing department from working with mental health, community help and graduate programs.

See MILLER HALL on page 3

Miller Hall renovations will give the School of Nursing more classrooms and labs. The project is on hold due to other campus priorities and incomplete fundraising. Tuesday, October 24, 2023. (Photo by Mila Bales)

If you would like to be a contributor, contact Amanda Blake at ablake@southern.edu

2 | Wednesday, October 25, 2023

NEWS LIBERTY

continued from page 1 Online Church; and Tobias Cremer, junior research fellow at the University of Oxford.

In the introduction given by Orlan Johnson, director of Public Affairs and Religious Liberty (PARL) for the North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists, he mentioned exploring new ways to talk about religious freedom. When addressing the separation of church and state, he said the church should aim for an approach that is “neutral enough so that every religion can serve God in the way they see fit.”

“We want this conference to provide a historic overview,” Johnson said. “We want young people to join the conversation and understand the importance of religious freedom.”

In his keynote address, French spoke about the paradox of religious liberty in the United States. He argued that while Americans have more religious freedom than at any other time in history, they often feel like they are under attack. This is because Christians, and primarily white evangelicals, have confused power with liberty.

"The white evangelical church has lost power but gained liberty and doesn't like the trade," French said. "When you have power you feel free, but in reality, you aren't. Liberty is the principle that limits power."

French went on to argue that religious liberty is not a secondary right, it is co-equal to free speech and other fundamental rights. It is protected in the Bill of Rights because the founders understood that religious liberty is essential for a free society.

"Freedom gives us the ability to pursue justice," French said.

"Your religious liberty does not hang by a thread, but our morals do; religious liberty is winning."

In a later session, Perry spoke about the relationship between religious freedom and Christian nationalism. He argued that religious nationalism is a dangerous ideology that threatens both religious freedom and democracy.

"Freedom gives us the ability to pursue justice.”

"Religious nationalism is the belief that a particular religious tradition should be the dominant force in society," Perry said.

The conference also featured several panel discussions on the challenges facing religious freedom in the 21st century. On one panel, the panelists discussed a wide range of topics, including the rise of Christian nationalism, the decline of religious affiliation and the increasing hostility towards religious minorities.

The conference concluded with a call to action. Speakers encouraged attendees to have respectful conversations with people of other faiths about the importance of religious liberty.

ISRAEL-HAMAS WAR continued from page 1

ness administration major at Southern. He told the Accent that he kept in close contact with his family through texts and FaceTime while his father was in the Middle East.

Although his father returned home safely, the impact of the conflict remains close to his and his family members’ hearts, Landon said. He added that his prayers are “with those involved in the conflict, particularly innocent civilians and those fighting for a righteous cause.”

The strife between the Israelis and Palestinians is the latest in an ongoing conflict that has existed since the aftermath of World War I. Palestine was among the former Ottoman territories placed under the administration of the United Kingdom by the League of Nations in 1922. The British Mandate over Palestine included the 1917 Balfour Declaration, which expressed support for establishing a national home for the Jewish people in Palestine.

During the mandate period, there was a significant influx of Jewish immigrants.

On Thursday, history professors held a convocation to give students a comprehensive overview of the conflict. Professors Lisa Diller, Shannon Martin, Mills McArthur and Michael

Weismeyer shared their insights on the historical context, origins and complexities of the Israel-Palestine conflict.

Weismeyer explained that the Holocaust led to an increased migration of Jews to Palestine in the 1930s, causing the United Nations to propose the creation of two independent states: one Jewish and another Palestinian. However, Jewish leaders declared their intention to establish Israel as an independent state, leading to a war in 1948 in which Israel significantly expanded its territory.

Many Palestinians fled or were expelled. Since then, Israel has obtained a large amount of Palestinian land. Many countries recognize Israel as its own state, but some do not and still refer to the land as Palestine.

The next day, Southern’s Adventist Peace Fellowship chapter conducted a prayer circle for those negatively impacted by the war.

Michael Weismeyer to students about what is happening in Israel and Gaza. Thursday, October 19, 2023. (Photo by: Preston Waters)

Fulfilling student health needs: UHC’s ‘What About:’ Series returns to campus Emma Boughman Reporter The University Health Center (UHC) is bringing back a student-focused discussion series on various health topics titled "What About:" after almost three years of inactivity.

The meetings are held the first Monday of each month in the male and female dorms.

The genders are separated due to the gender-specific nature of some of the topics, UHC nurse practitioner Michelle Mix wrote in an email to the Accent.

Women meet in the Wolftever room in Thatcher South, and men meet in the Talge Hall recreation room. For the upcoming Nov. 6 meeting, men will be discussing self care for viral respiratory illnesses, and women will discuss menstrual and women’s health problems. Other topics covered throughout the series address cold/flu symptoms, depression/anxiety, physical fitness and healthy relationships.

Cultural credit and food are offered at each event.

“We started ‘What About:’ in 2019 after noticing a need for

The women's upcoming "What About:" discussion will cover menstrual and other women's health concerns. (Graphic courtesy of source)

more health-related education for the student body,” Mix stated.

The discussions are intended to give students answers to a variety of health concerns in an informal setting.

“What About:” stopped when COVID-19 hit campus. Since then, many students have requested information about the pandemic and other health-related topics, so UHC felt it needed to start the series again.

“We want to provide a judgment-free environment to tackle health-related questions and concerns our students are

facing,” Mix stated. “By having these discussions, we are able to provide information to our students with a biblical foundation that is applicable to their modern day lives.”

Mix said that the UHC has been thrilled with the turnout so far, with about 60 students attending each session. The health center intends to hold the series throughout the year.

“As long as students show an interest in attending," Mix stated, "we will be there."

The men's upcoming "What About:" discussion will cover self care for viral respiratory illnesses. (Graphic courtesy of source)

Lifestyle Editor Allison Grundy

Social Media Manager Lia Colon

Editor-in-Chief Amanda Blake

Opinion Editor Alexis Dewey

Managing Editor Matthew Orquia

Religion Editor Madison Wilcox

For any questions, comments and article submission information, email the editor at ablake@southern.edu

News Editor Lesieli Savelio

Sports Editor Jacob Nevis

Reporters Emma Boughman Amy Mejias Marian Polanco Emma Rodriguez Htet Myint

For all advertising inquiries, email studentadmgr@southern.edu.

Photo Editor Adam De Lisser

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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.

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SPORTS

continued from page 1 This statement is then followed by an explanation of Southern’s intramural program: “The intramural program facilitated by the School of Health and Kinesiology encourages fellowship and physical activity for both students and employees that helps improve the physical, mental, and spiritual health for all.”

Judy Sloan, dean of the School of Health and Kinesiology, reaffirmed this sentiment.

“Southern has had a really good position on intercollegiate sports,” Sloan said. “[So we] simply ask the question: ‘Would we want to spend all of our funds to have programs for an elite few athletes or use the money to provide activities and sports events that all the student body can participate in?’”

Sloan said Southern’s position is different from that of any other Adventist school in North America.

“I believe Southern is the only Adventist institution of higher learning that has never had intercollegiate sports,” Sloan said.

Although students understand this could be another financial burden for the school to undertake, some believe that an attempt at introducing a competitive sports team to campus is worth it.

“We should have enough money for it,” Torres said. “If it was prioritized [and] if it was something the administration wanted to put forth, they could.”

Torres said he believes that Southern has enough people who could manage both intercollegiate teams and intramurals. He believes that Southern has the capability to add intercollegiate sports but does not have the initiative to do it.

Gus Martin, director of Online Campus, competes in intramurals with his futsal team.

“I'll be honest with you, coming from institutions that [had] pro sports, I'm not necessarily saying that we are against it,” Martin said.

“However, if we go competitive, then it removes something good that is happening right now. What's happening is intramurals is kind of the heart that allows bonding, allows us adults, faculty and staff to come play together with you guys.”

According to Martin, through intramurals, students and faculty can interact on the same level without the stress of serious competition.

Eliezer Graterol, professor in the School of Religion, who also plays in Southern’s futsal intramurals, said he values the bonding experience that intramurals provides over the competition.

“So, at the end of the day, it's the spirit of bonding and fellowship, which I believe is way more valuable than even the competition itself,” said Graterol.

“In addition to the health benefits for students, these programs are a great way to meet new people and establish lifelong friendships all while learning to play as a team within a Christian environment that encourages good sportsmanship,” Merryman said.

“Intramurals are a fantastic thing. It is something that unites our student body,” Torres said. “It's something that gives people the opportunity to become involved, to have fun, enjoy a sport that they are passionate for, that they are good at. It brings all different levels together. … I don't think they're mutually exclusive. It's not that you can't have intramurals if you have competitive sports.”

Sloan mentioned that a Christian university’s main focus should See SPORTS on page 3

Copy Editors Stefanie Green Kathy Zelidon Photographers Mila Bales Ron Cabacungan Andre Ottati Preston Waters Staff Sponsor Alva James-Johnson Circulation Manager Norelie Cabrera

3 | Wednesday, October 25, 2023

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

NEWS The Accent wins at SAC Lesieli Savelio News Editor The Southern Accent won the Best Student Newspaper award for the 2022-2023 school year at the Society of Adventist Communicators (SAC) 34th annual convention in Springfield, Massachusetts, last weekend.

Eleven students and four faculty members from the School of Journalism and Communication (SJC) attended the event, which included a media tour, workshops, presentations and an awards banquet.

At the award ceremony, the SAC presented awards to communication professionals and students from across the country.

Students and alumni from the SJC were among those who received recognition for their work.

While presenting the award to the Accent, Bryant Taylor, communication director for the Southern Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, explained the judges’ reasons for selecting the student-led publication for the top honor.

“The jury said this newspaper was a winner because of the combination of style of writing, diverse article categories and exceptional use of visuals,” said Taylor, who emceed the program.

Alana Crosby, last year’s editorin-chief, did not attend the conference. However, she shared her excitement with the Accent after receiving texts from attendees notifying her of the award.

“It’s wonderful to receive recognition after the late nights, stressful stories and hard work that goes into the Accent,” said Crosby, who led the winning newspaper staff of about 20 students. “I know to some students it may seem like a small thing, seeing the stack of newspapers sitting around campus, but we make a lot of sacrifices for the Accent.”

Alva James-Johnson, professor in the School of Journalism and Communication and staff sponsor for the Accent, shared her thoughts on the newspaper’s accomplishment.

“I am so proud of the student editors, reporters, photographers, graphic designers, copyeditors, social media and web managers who contributed to the newspaper winning this award,” she said.“The recognition is well-deserved, and we look forward to the Accent’s continued success as we aim for excellence as we serve our reading audience not only on campus but also in the greater Collegedale and Adventist communities.”

According to James-Johnson, the newspaper is now part of a national initiative through the Center for Community News (CCN), located at the University of Vermont. The program aims to enhance local news coverage in “news deserts” across the country through the work of student journalists. As part of that effort, the Accent added two pages dedicated to Collegedale news to five issues of the Accent this semester.

According to a report prepared

by Meg Ermer, senior computer science and Spanish major and the web manager for the Accent, the Southern Accent’s website saw a 54 percent increase in views and 57 percent increase in visitors between 2021 and 2022.

Already for 2023, the newspaper has received nearly 42,000 views and over 22,000 visitors and has drawn hundreds of views from foreign countries, such as Austria (252), Canada (247), Uruguay (191) and the United Kingdom (144).

In addition to the Accent, SJC students and alumni received the following awards and honorable mentions at the SAC conference: • Amanda Blake, senior journalism major and editorin-chief of the 2023-2024 Accent, received honorable mention for Feature Writing.

• Ignite won honorable mention for Best Student Broadcast Project.

• SJC project "Media Minutes" won for Best Student Video.

• Public Relations majors Sierra Ureta, Genesis Ventura and Lizbeth Rodriguez-Diep received honorable mention for a PR campaign developed for Child Impact.

• 2022 SJC grad Xander Ordinola, media specialist for Kentucky-Tennessee Conference, won the top award in photojournalism.

• 2021 SJC grad Paola Mora Zepeda, director of Media Ministry for the Kentucky-Tennessee Conference, won for Best Microcopy and honorable mentions for photography and writing.

Visitors and views of the Southern Accent's website continue to grow each year. (Graphic by Meg Ermer and Amanda Blake)

SPORTS

continued from page 2 be spiritual development and helping each other. According to Sloan, people also wonder if intramurals, not just competitive sports, are detrimental to the spiritual well-being of an individual.

Sloan said competition happens on this campus no matter what. It can even happen in the classroom.

She explained that the basis of competition is the concept of trying to make one better than another, and she believes that is unchristian.

When discussing the matter of sports and spirituality, Martin stated that Southern’s mission is to work for a goal greater than ourselves as individuals.

“So, because the fundamental for Christian education is actually the development of the heart and soul, we strive to prepare students to accomplish a specific mission

which is not necessarily winning a tournament,” Martin said.

“I also think that Southern might think that having competitive sports draws us away from our ministry of the gospel on Earth,” Javaid said. “However, if we have the right intentions of treating our competitors with love and kindness, then there is not anything that should affect our spirituality and human nature on the field.”

Due to sports being so universally loved, Torres explained that he believes using sports and religion to reach out to others would be effective and could possibly bring in more students.

“Sports is something that unites cultures, that unites people from all different backgrounds,” Torres said. “We could use that as a means for outreach that reaches so many people who are interested in sports.”

MILLER HALL continued from page 1

Gadd said one professor gets her class involved by using simulations as she teaches so that her students can learn by seeing and doing rather than sitting through another lecture.

To get the required mannequin in the classroom, she has to move it down the hall, risking damage due to moving the technology too much.

A new simulation classroom would help solve this problem.

“There's going to be a medicine room, and students can get involved. [There’s going to be a] screen that if they are not involved themselves they can sit and watch because of the cameras. … Your wheels are turning, and you're engaged whether you're up there … or you’re sitting wondering: ‘What would I do if I was up there?’”

Gadd said.

According to Gadd, one plan for the new simulation lab is to renovate the chapel on the top floor of Miller Hall.

Last year, Hamilton worked on plans for the top floor simulation classroom. However, according to him, those initial plans were replaced with a plan to renovate the entire building.

According to Gadd, nursing faculty are asking for multiple lab rooms on the first floor for things like mental health, emergency rooms or critical care environments, as well as conference rooms that will allow for multiple simulations going at once. They also plan to add a lounge/study area that will honor one of the nursing professors who passed away.

Gadd said the renovated building would be a place for intense teaching and clinical space.

The School of Nursing wants the lab because the program is growing and needs more space.

“I know we made a commitment to nursing that we will get this done, so the only thing that's got me concerned is the fundraising,” Hamilton said. “ … I want to help nursing, but if we don't have all the money, then how are we funding it?”

According to Hamilton, the renovation will cost about $750,000 just for the construction portion, and they are still waiting on fundraising for nursing equipment.

So far, Hamilton is still discussing the plans and is making blueprints, but because of other campus priorities and fundraising, actual renovations are on hold.

If you would like to be a contributor, contact Amanda Blake at ablake@southern.edu

4 | Wednesday, October 25, 2023

NEWS

Society of Adventist Communicators Convention

Stephen Ruf, a professor in the School of Journalism and Communication (SJC), accepts an award on behalf of SJC students. Multiple SJC students and alumni won awards at the convention. Saturday, October 21, 2023. (Photo by Steven Hansen)

Pablo Fernandez, a professor in the School of Journalism and Communication (SJC), speaks to attendees. Fernandez led a breakout session during the convention called “EGW Principles for Media Ministry.” Friday, October 20, 2023. (Photo by Steven Hansen)

Erin Byrne speaks to a crowd of communication students and professionals. Byrne is CEO of communications agency ThinkSisu and provided her listeners with strategies on how to work with people in the field of public relations and marketing. Friday, October 20, 2023. (Photo by Steven Hansen)

Attendees of the Society of Adventist Communicators convention tour WWLP-22News. Employees of the local TV station showed tour groups different studios in the building. Thursday, October 19, 2023. (Photo by Steven Hansen)

Attendees from the Southern Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists pose for a photo after the event’s awards banquet. Several students from Southern Adventist University and Oakwood University and professional communicators in the union came to the convention. Saturday, October 21, 2023. (Photo courtesy of Stephen Ruf)

5 | Wednesday, October 25, 2023

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

COLLEGEDALE NEWS Editor's Note: Students in the Investigative Reporting class at Southern Adventist University produced stories for this new two-page Collegedale News section as part of a national initiative to enhance community news coverage. The Accent believes local news is vital to a thriving democracy, and we remain committed to reporting about important issues, novel occurrences and interesting people in the greater Collegedale area. We will publish this special section in five issues of the newspaper this semester. To submit tips or press releases, go to https://southern-accent.org.

Collegedale’s property tax rate increase: What led to the contentious decision and why leaders’ stances stay opposed Commissioners pass resolution to improve future budget discussions

Hamilton County incorporates ten cities, and Collegedale, Lookout Mountain and Red Bank were the only three cities in the county to increase their property tax rates this year. Depicted above are changes in each of the cities' property tax rates over the past decade. (Graphic by Amanda Blake)

Amanda Blake Editor-in-chief Collegedale government officials remain divided over the city’s decision to increase its property tax rate by 12% this year. For the last two years, the city’s rate stood at 1.3897 per $100 of a property’s assessed value. When three of Collegedale’s five commissioners passed the city’s budget during a tense commission meeting in the spring, the rate increased to 1.55. Besides Collegedale, only two other cities located in Hamilton County — Red Bank and Lookout Mountain — raised their rates this year. Hamilton County’s other seven municipalities kept their rates the same, according to numbers available on the state comptroller’s website.

The Accent contacted city and county officials to investigate how property tax rates are determined and why city leadership decided to raise the rate despite concerns from certain commissioners and residents.

The newspaper also interviewed Collegedale residents about their views regarding the increase.

Tax Rate History According to information on Hamilton County’s website, the county assessor determines a property’s value, and that assessed value helps determine how much property owners

must pay in taxes. However, county and city legislative bodies determine tax rates.

"Inflation affects the city balance sheet like it does individuals."

Tennessee law requires that county and city property tax rates should decrease when property values increase so as not to yield additional revenues for municipalities.

This Tennessee Certified Tax Rate process, created for “truth-in-taxation,” is explained on the Tennessee comptroller’s website.

Hamilton County property reappraisals occur every four years. In 2021, property values in Collegedale were 26.5% higher than their values in 2017, according to County Assessor Marty Haynes. In accordance with state law, the county property tax rate decreased from 2.7652 in 2020 to 2.2373 in 2021, and Collegedale’s property tax rate decreased from 1.65 to 1.3897.

In the past decade, Collegedale has raised its rate only once.

Why Increase Now? At a June 5 commission meeting and while speaking to News Channel 9, Collegedale Mayor Morty Lloyd explained that the city needed to increase its property tax rate to combat the

effects of inflation while maintaining its quality services.

In an email to the Accent, City Manager Wayon Hines wrote: “Inflation affects the city balance sheet like it does individuals. The asphalt costs more; the police cars cost more; [there is] wage pressure, etc. The city works to obtain the most value from every project or purchase we can, but inflation is a factor.”

Mayor Morty Lloyd (Photo courtesy of source)

As reported in a previous Accent article, Collegedale and unincorporated Ooltewah have experienced the fastest growth countywide. Hines said city expenses have also increased due to that development. For example, the city needs more Public Works employees to collect garbage as it gains more residents.

Collegedale’s operating budget for the 23/24 fiscal year (FY) sets total expenditures at $13,430,300, an increase of

Future discussions surrounding the City of Collegedale’s budget and tax rate might look different with the passing of a new ordinance prompted by budget discussions earlier this year. At the May 15 and June 5 meetings, Commissioners Tonya Sadler and Vice Mayor Tim Johnson expressed concerns about how the budget was communicated. On the latter date, Sadler asked her fellow commissioners why they were even discussing the budget if, at that time, city administrators would be unable to properly advertise potential changes to the public should the commissioners vote against it.

According to City Manager Wayon Hines, some commissioners complimented administrators’ detailed work and timeliness in communicating the budget, while two others said they would prefer to have more discussion surrounding the bud-

get in the future. Concerns led commissioners to pass Resolution 536, which requires that a public hearing be held before or at the time of the first reading of the budget, according to Sadler.

“Commissioners will have more time to deliberate the sentiments of citizen feedback,” she wrote in an email to the Accent about the ordinance. “There will also be two budget workshops instead of one.

“Collegedale citizens will hear more discussion than they ever have about budgetary expenses in the fiscal year 23/24 workshops,” Sadler stated. “With three of the five commission seats up for election in November ‘24, incumbents will be more engaged as they campaign to keep their seats.”

According to Hines, the city’s property tax rate will likely be decreased after the next property reappraisal in 2025.

$155,481 from the 22/23 FY operating budget’s projected expenditures. The city’s projected revenue from property taxes this FY is $6,367,000, a 15% increase from the previous budget’s projection for property tax revenue acquired during the last FY. Total revenue, however, is only projected to increase by 1%. Both budgets are available on the city’s website.

Collegedale is often ranked within the top ten safest cities in Tennessee and offers an array of high-quality services to its residents, according to Hines. Some of the services he listed include the city’s roadway network, greenway system, the Tri-Community Volunteer Fire Department, library and Parks and Recreation events.

“We are becoming known for the public amenities we provide for the community,” he wrote.

Brigett Raper, communications strategist for the Small Cities Coalition of Hamilton County and a Collegedale employee, explained in an email to the Accent how the state’s recent removal of the

Hall income tax and refusal to share more of its sales tax with municipalities also affected Collegedale’s decision.

The Hall income tax, enacted in 1929, applied to income derived from stocks and bonds, and revenue from the tax was shared with the government of the municipality where the taxpayer resided, Raper explained. In 2016, state legislators began phasing out the tax; it was officially repealed for tax periods beginning in 2021 or later, according to the state government’s website.

“Tennessee now joins just seven other states that impose no individual income tax,” Raper wrote. “ … As a result of the phase-out of the tax, most municipalities had no choice but to increase property taxes to make up for the lost revenue.”

Earlier this year, Collegedale commissioners and other city leaders in Tennessee lobbied in Nashville as part of a Tennessee Municipal League initiative, asking state representatives to See PROPERTY TAX on page 6

New vegetarian restaurant opens at Four Corners Lauren Arant Staff Writer A new Asian restaurant serving vegetarian cuisine recently opened at Four Corners with a variety of offerings for the greater Collegedale community and beyond.

The eatery, located at the Apison Crossing location where Frogurtland closed its doors in March, is run by a nonprofit organization started by the High Point Chinese Seventh-day Adventist Church. The doors opened in September. Dennis Li, pastor of the High Point congregation, said the restaurant’s mission is “to mingle, to serve and to connect.”

The name was chosen carefully — “High,” meaning standard, and “Su,” meaning vegetarian in Chinese, he added. The menu includes homemade multicultural Asian food — all vegetarian — with vegan options available.

Li said the restaurant aims to create an environment for Collegedale residents so they feel welcomed and loved as they connect with one another. The nonprofit also uses the restaurant as a ministry, welcoming everyone who walks through its doors, according to Li. “After many weeks of prayer, we believed that it would be more effective for us to meet people where they are, just as Christ did,” he said.

Though he strives to bring people closer to God, Li said he understands the stereotypes of Christians and the hesitancy many people feel when it comes to joining a faith-based community.

“We go to where people are first,” Li said. “People need to eat; so let’s start a central influence in the community where we can serve people, provide a healthy diet, connect with peo-

ple and give them some sort of confidence, and then they will be more open to share and to talk.”

High Su is still working on publicity since it only opened just over a month ago, according to Li. The restaurant will have a grand opening on Oct. 29. In the meantime, managers are still working on hiring a fully paid staff and developing a website online.

Li said the restaurant, currently staffed with volunteers, is already attracting many Southern Adventist University students as well as customers from downtown Chattanooga.

The restaurant is getting great reviews, he added. It is still testing new dishes and finalizing the full menu.

“We want to welcome everyone and really serve the community with good food, good service and good people,” Li said.

A customer receives water at High Su, a new vegetarian resturant in the Four Corners plaza. Friday, October 20, 2023. (Photo by Adam De Lisser)

If you would like to be a contributor, contact Amanda Blake at ablake@southern.edu

6 | Wednesday, October 25, 2023

COLLEGEDALE NEWS PROPERTY TAX continued from page 5

City Manager Wayon Hines (Photo courtesy of Jaime Heath)

share a portion of its sales tax with cities. Raper explained that in 2002, the state government, in order to avoid a budget crisis, increased its state sales tax rate from 6% to 7% but altered its historic sharing relationship with cities to retain revenues derived from the increase.

“The combined effect of these two measures has been to allow nearly $2 billion in sales tax revenues to accrue entirely to the benefit of the state’s general fund at the expense of municipalities and municipal taxpayers,” Raper wrote.

State legislators denied city leaders’ request for the state to once again share portions of its sales tax because they had concerns about approving new measures that would result in recurring expenses for the state, according to Raper.

“While the State of Tennessee is enjoying record amounts of income (contributed by the cities) and [has] a rainy-day fund of over $2 billion, our legislators still believe that difficult economic times are ahead,” Raper wrote.

In the Minority When asked why Collegedale was one of only three cities in the county to raise its tax rate, Hines wrote: “Different cities have different situations to address. Sometimes they cut services. Some cities have an increase in sales tax adequate to offset the inflation. It would take a comparison of each city to understand why … they [did or did not] raise taxes.”

According to Raper, Soddy Daisy and Lakesite needed to increase property taxes but did not receive approval from their commissioners.

Through email communication facilitated by Raper, Lakesite’s city manager, Kirsten Ert Acuff, told the Accent that the city has never increased its property tax rates since its founding 50 years ago.

“Rather, an increase in the number of homes and gradual increases in home values have produced increased revenues in the early years after the city was founded,” she wrote. “ … At this time, we are able to maintain the same level of services as in prior years without an increase in property taxes.”

According to the state comptroller’s website, property taxes are the largest single source of funding for local governments.

Lakesite, however, is not highly dependent on its property tax revenue, instead using local and state sales tax revenue to fund its operations, Ert Acuff wrote.

“As most of our services are contracted out, we are not immune to price increases, so we do not rule out that adjustments might have to be made in the future to cover expenses for critical city services,” Ert Acuff wrote.

Raper told the Accent she believes Collegedale needed to increase its property tax rate by 12% “to continue supporting the growth of Collegedale and provide the level of services its citizens have come to expect.”

Commissioners’ Stances Lloyd, who was elected to the commission in December 2022, along with Commissioners Debbie Baker and Katie Lamb voted to approve the budget at the June 5 commission meeting. Commissioner Tonya Sadler voted against

it, and Vice Mayor Tim Johnson abstained from voting. During the meeting, each commissioner expressed that the city’s decision to increase its property tax rate was not one the leaders took lightly.

A Chattanoogan article described City Hall on June 5 as “filled with residents concerned about the increase,” and tensions between city leaders were high during their discussion of the budget. A live recording of the meeting can be viewed on the city’s YouTube channel.

“We go over these numbers and everything and scrutinize them,” Baker said at the meeting. “We look to see … what can we do, and, at the same time, we look to see how we can enhance your life as we go through the year, how we can take pressure off of you and everyone else in the community. And we have to go with the whole community, so we’re trying just to be flexible … and be fair to everybody.”

"The combined effect of these two measures has been to allow nearly $2 billion in sales tax revenues to accrue entirely to the benefit of the state's general fund at the expense of municipal taxpayers."

Lamb said she and her husband are living on a retired income, so they must watch their budget closely. However, she added, the rate increase will cost them less than what a decrease in city services would cost them.

Lloyd said he doesn’t want the city to compromise its identity, and he appreciated the time administration put into creating the budget.

Johnson said: “I honestly feel like we are elected by the citizens of Collegedale to make good choices, the best choices we can for the city and for them, and I feel like normally we do a pretty good job of that. But this is the one budget that I have now come to [feel uncomfortable with] after receiving probably 11 calls or conversations while I’m out at the grocery store or something over the weekend.”

Johnson attempted to find ways to alter the budget to keep the property tax rate stagnant during the meeting. However, his suggestions did not account for what the city needed to meet its proposed budget, Hines told him.

Commissioner Tonya Sadler (Photo courtesy of source)

The Accent attempted to contact Johnson multiple times by phone and email to determine his current stance on the city budget but did not receive a response.

At the meeting, Sadler expressed dissatisfaction with the budget and rate increase, and Johnson stepped in when she and Hines began addressing one another directly, asking the leaders to maintain a professional conversation.

“Unfortunately, there’s a little finger pointing both ways,” he said, referring to the two commissioners’ behavior.

Sadler is still dissatisfied.

“I felt then, and I still feel now that [the rate increase] was unnecessary,” she wrote in an email to the Accent. “I feel that Mayor Lloyd was convinced by the city administration, who obviously didn’t take any steps to control city spending, that the tax increase was the only way forward.”

In response to her comment, Hines wrote to the Accent: “I am disappointed she feels that way. The commissioners were given multiple opportunities to give feedback on the budget.

Revisiting controversial budget items Three budget items discussed at length during the June 5 commission meeting by Collegedale commissioners and residents were: increased retention incentives for city employees, the addition of a new position in the Public Works Department and the purchase of six police vehicles.

Retention Incentives According to City Manager Wayon Hines, Collegedale’s pay plan does not allow for employee raises based on years of service or merit, so city administration wanted to increase the budget’s retention incentives this year to recognize employees with extensive experience in their roles.

“One item that we continue to receive feedback from employees that have a longer tenure is that the experience should pay more than a fresh hire,” Hines wrote in an email to the Accent.

“They are correct.”

Commissioner Tonya Sadler disagrees. She recently shared a handout with the Accent that she created and distributed to her fellow commissioners in January. In it, she wrote that the city’s proposed increase of employee retention pay favors upper management employees “who already earn considerably higher salaries.” Thus, she believes a retention pay plan based on years of service is inappropriate.

“An annual retention bonus should be designed to show that all our employees' continued years of service are appreciated equally as the equal human beings they are,” she wrote in the handout. “A scaled retention incentive gives the impression that we care more if a manager sticks around than if a police officer or auto technician leaves.”

"A scaled retention incentive gives the impression that we care more if a manager sticks around than if a police officer or auto technician leaves."

Sadler provided the Accent with two additional documents: a city report listing the retention incentives paid to city employees last year and a budgeted pay spreadsheet listing retention incentives to be paid to employees this year. According to those documents, this year’s retention pay for some management positions will increase by about $4,000 compared to the retention pay those positions received last year. Commissioners approved $8,689.80

We did not attempt to pressure any of the commission. Staff was tasked with providing a balanced budget that maintained or increased services during a time of year-over-year incredible wage pressure and inflation.”

Resident Voices Debbi Ahlden, who has lived in Collegedale for eight years, was one of multiple residents who expressed concerns about the rate increase at spring commission meetings.

In a message to the Accent, Ahlden wrote that older sections of the city house several senior citizens on fixed incomes, and she believes that raising taxes will “price them out of their homes.”

“The geographic area of Collegedale is very small,” she wrote.

“However, it seems to me that the city wants to be a Lookout Mountain or a Signal Mountain type of community. The city is very fortunate to have benefactors like McKee Foods and the Collegedale Tomorrow Foundation, Inc., that continue to

as the maximum retention pay a single employee may receive, she wrote. According to the spreadsheet she shared, positions to receive that maximum amount are city manager/engineer, assistant city manager/ chief financial officer and chief of police.

Before this year, total retention incentives for all city employees cost about $91,000, according to Hines. This year, the cost is about $175,000.

Hines stated that Collegedale's total salary increases are in line with or less than salary increases enacted by other municipalities in Hamilton County. Retention incentives have not yet been paid out this year, he added.

Brigett Raper, communications strategist for the Small Cities Coalition of Hamilton County and a Collegedale employee, wrote in an email to the Accent that she and other employees are grateful for the raised incentives.

“The measures Collegedale’s administration has put in place in an effort to keep quality employees are greatly appreciated by all,” Raper wrote. “As a result, each department goes beyond what is required on a daily basis to help make the city run smoothly.”

According to the documents provided by Sadler, Raper’s retention pay was $1,810.85 last year, and she will receive $4,282.20 this year.

Debbi Ahlden, a Collegedale resident who expressed concerns about the retention incentives at a spring commission meeting, informed the Accent that she continues to disagree with the city’s method for determining retention pay.

“The retention bonus formula that the city uses calculates extremely high payouts for some employees. Other government agencies have this type of bonus but with different formulas,” she wrote. “Making changes to this needs to be explored by the commissioners because the city employees making the most in bonuses are the ones receiving the most.”

Public Works Position At the June 5 commission meeting, Vice Mayor Tim Johnson expressed confusion concerning the proposed budget’s addition of a new safety position in the Public Works Department. Commissioner Katie Lamb asked Hines why the city had never hired anyone to oversee the position’s responsibilities before. Hines explained that the department did not have good standard operating procedures and needed a full-time employee to draft some and help maintain safety regulations.

develop and support projects that the city would not be able to afford on [its] own. The problem with some projects is that, when completed, the price of maintaining said projects reverts to taxpayers of Collegedale.”

John Beckett, a Collegedale resident who told the Accent he has owned property in the city since 1975, wrote in an email to the Accent he believes residents get a good deal from city services for the tax dollars they pay.

“If I were running for a commissioner slot, I might think of looking for ways to increase taxes a small amount each year rather than hitting homeowners with a ‘speed bump’ after several years without a change,” he stated.

“What we’re paying is reasonable — considering all the things the Collegedale government has done to make this a better place,” he added. “We have excellent police and fire protection, recreational facilities for all ages, and regular garbage service is even included.”

According to Eric Sines, director of Public Works, the new position, titled “safety director,” was filled in July by Lamar Rains. The position was a necessary addition to the budget to help Public Works maintain a “safety-first culture” and remain up-to-date with training and regulations, Sines wrote in an email to the Accent.

“From a financial standpoint, just one or two small injuries prevented would pay for the annual salary,” Sines wrote. “A major injury would cover several years.

There is also the psychological side of living with a lifelong injury or a fatality of a coworker or yourself. All in all, this position is needed based on the amount of employees, the type of work that we do [and] the very many different jobs we do on a daily/ weekly/monthly basis.”

Police Vehicles The Accent contacted Hines and Collegedale Assistant Chief of Police Jaime Heath about the city’s planned purchase of six police vehicles.

Collegedale tries to purchase five police cars on an annual basis but was only able to purchase four last year, which is why the city plans to acquire six this year, according to Hines.

"An officer spends 90% of their duty day inside their vehicle. It's their workspace, their office."

“They will be an asset,” he wrote. “The city needs its vehicles, whether they are police cars or garbage trucks, to be in good mechanical condition and safe working order to serve their purpose.”

Heath wrote in an email to the Accent that the department expects to receive the vehicles at the end of the month. He added that the cars are not considered an added expense but rather a routine expense, and, after a lifespan of five to six years, the department’s vehicles and accompanying equipment are sold at an auction, with proceeds going back to the city’s budget.

“An officer spends 90% of their duty day inside their vehicle. It’s their workspace, their office,” he stated. “The durable four-wheel drive Durangos that our agency has been working to transition over to have proven invaluable, especially during periods of inclement weather or rescue operations during natural disasters.”

Jeff Cuthbertson, president and CEO of SERVPRO Team Cuthbertson, a damage restoration company, wrote in an email to the Accent that an advantage of his company’s headquarters being situated in Collegedale is the city’s business-friendly tax climate.

“While recognizing that tax adjustments are sometimes necessary, we respectfully urge our elected officials to minimize such increases,” he stated, “ensuring that Collegedale remains appealing to small business owners and retains its competitive edge.”

Vice Mayor Tim Johnson (Photo sourced from city website)

7 | Wednesday, October 25, 2023

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

MENTAL HEALTH ‘Step Forward’: Counseling Services invites students to mental health event Tiffany Bartell Healthy Minds QEP Director Editor’s Note: The following articles are written by counseling professionals from Counseling Services in partnership with the Southern Accent.

Positive mental health and well-being are things most people want to have in their lives, but they can feel difficult to obtain. It is tempting to see happiness and well-being as by-products that we can have when the rest of our life is going smoothly, and our stressors are low. Mental health and happiness are, however, products that are the result of the cumulation of our resourcing over multiple domains.

Mental and emotional health are directly related to our physical health. How we care for our body has a significant impact on our mood and thoughts, and the three areas with the greatest impact to our mental health are the areas of exercise, nutrition and sleep. College life also can directly challenge these three areas, making it feel impossible to have the mental health we want.

I’ve heard it said that you are as happy and have as much of a sense of well-being as you will ever have in your whole life today.

Think about how you feel today.

Is this the health and well-being that you want to have every day for the rest of your life? If the answer is no, then the solution is to change today!

One of the ways that we can affect change in our mental health and well-being is to identify small ways to influence the most important areas of our wellness. This is accomplished

through small but consistent changes in our health habits.

Counseling Services’ upcoming event, “Step Forward,” is a two-week, campus-wide initiative where we invite students, staff and faculty to make one small change to better their mental health in the area of sleep, nutrition or exercise. Some of the pledge prompts are as simple as

eating breakfast three times each week or drinking one more glass of water per day than usual.

When we want to make a change in our lifestyle, we often set high and ambitious goals, but it is the small, sustainable adjustments that make the biggest impact in the long run.

The event runs Nov. 6-17, and we have had over 300 par-

ticipants in past years. Our goal is to have 500 students, staff and faculty participating this year.

You can sign a pledge card and receive your corresponding wristband at Hulsey Wellness Center, McKee Library, residence halls, the University Health Center, the nursing building or the Bietz Center

for Student Life between Oct. 23 and Nov. 2.

We will also be featuring pledge pop-ups throughout the two weeks. During the event, we will be posting encouraging tips, conducting drawings for giveaways and more. Join us for this event, and make one small change to better your mental health!

Victor O’Dala prepares to run on the track at the Hulsey Wellness Center. Counseling Services’ “Step Forward” event will challenge participants to better their mental health by improving other areas of their lives, like their exercise routines. (Illustration by Adam De Lisser)

SPORTS Beyond gold: Simone Biles as a heroic advocate for wellness Jacob Nevis Sports Editor Simone Biles continues to show sports fans why she is one of the greatest gymnasts of all time. Biles has consistently been one of the best gymnasts in the world, and at the World Artistic Gymnastics Championship in Belgium, she continued to showcase her dominance.

Along with becoming the first woman ever to pull off a Yurchenko double pike at an international competition, Biles was able to secure five medals at the event, four of them be-

ing gold. She would win gold in the all-around, balance beam, floor exercise and team competition events. With the addition of these four medals, Biles would win 37 medals in both the World Championships and the Olympics and become the most decorated gymnast, male or female.

While Biles’ dominance has contributed to her being an icon to many Americans, she has become a hero to me in a different way by tending to her mental health.

In 2020, Biles would suffer from an illness known as “the

twisties.” The twisties is defined as the sudden inability for a gymnast to make the required spins for a particular maneuver. This would affect Biles at the 2020 Tokyo Summer Olympics where she would have to withdraw from the competition. After the Olympics, Biles would go on a break from gymnastics to focus on her mental well-being and would return this year at the World Championship event in Belgium.

This event caused me to see Biles in a different light. The first time I ever saw Simone Biles was watching the 2016

Simone Biles performs at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio. (Photo sourced from Wikipedia)

summer Olympics in Rio. At that time, I had only seen her as an American sports icon who helped bring gold medals home to the USA. After the events at the 2020 Olympics, Biles made her mental health a priority despite pressure from others to ignore it.

Mental health is one of the most important issues to me, and being able to see an athlete address it was very special. Oftentimes, athletes won’t say anything in regards to mental health, and on the outside they seem like perfect beings who lack normal strug-

gles. Biles helped show that wasn’t true at all.

Biles was one of the first athletes to openly talk about her mental well-being and help show that athletes are human, too. She was able to open up to many Americans and bring light to an issue that I believe many people might struggle with.

While I may not be the biggest gymnastics fan, Simone Biles has become a hero to me.

She was able to use her platform for an issue that is often overlooked in the sports world, and I thank her for that.

8 | Wednesday, October 25, 2023

If you would like to be a contributor, contact Amanda Blake at ablake@southern.edu

OPINION Wolf in sheep’s clothing: Christian circles are not immune to sexual and domestic abuse Brett Klasing Contributor Writer’s Note: This article uses the terms “domestic abuse,” “domestic assault” and “domestic violence” interchangeably for the sake of inclusion. Likewise, the terms “sexual abuse,” “sexual assault,” and “sexual violence” are also interchanged to represent a broader view of the topic.

On Oct. 19, known as “Purple Thursday,” Southern Adventist University students and staff wore purple to support victims of domestic and sexual abuse. Several individuals on campus took part in the national campaign to acknowledge friends, families and strangers that face these abhorrent forms of violence and take another step forward in creating a safer community. We must stand in solidarity against this monster that threatens to harm members of our society.

According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV), an average of nearly 20 people per minute are physically abused by an intimate partner in the United States alone. One in four women and one in nine men experience severe emotional, sexual or otherwise physical intimate partner violence, and there are more than 20,000 calls placed to domestic violence hotlines nationwide on a typical day.

Forty-three percent of dating college women reported experiencing violence and abusive tendencies by their partners, and one in five were sexually assaulted in college. Tragically, the list goes on.

Surely our traditional Christian community offers a safe haven for those seeking shelter from these issues. Unfortunately, evi-

dence suggests that the answer is often no. Instead, our Bible and culture is repeatedly weaponized for power and abuse.

In a joint study conducted by Marciana Popescu, professor in the Graduate School of Social Service at Fordham University, and René Drumm, senior research professor of sociology at Andrews University, domestic violence in conservative Christian environments and faith-based communities was assessed, and it was discovered that controlling behaviors and escalating violence are extremely prevalent in both local and regional conservative Christian groups. When comparing data to various national samples, researchers found that physical victimization was often as similar to and more common than national rates. Additionally, women participating in the study reported that sharing their experiences with religious leadership or clergy actually increased their emotional and spiritual pain, and the church’s beliefs about men and women made them feel like they could not speak up due to a variety of religious reasons.

The lack of safety in the conservative Christian environment must not be overlooked.

Ask yourself how many times you have heard things like, “He would never do something like that,” or “He’s such a good guy; don’t ruin his reputation.”

Victims of sexual and domestic abuse or assault can face responses of “But he’s so spiritual” and “Maybe you asked for it by wearing that” in times when support is absolutely critical. Although these examples make the assumption that the victims are female, it should not be ig-

nored that men are also vulnerable to being abused by their partner in multiple ways.

The cost of such dismissals and oversights is detrimental.

The NCADV explains that there is a relationship between intimate partner violence and depression/suicidal thoughts.

Victims also experience other mental issues such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and anxiety.

Additionally, according to the NCADV, intimate partner violence can be the cause of unintended pregnancies, miscarriages, nutritional deficiencies, neurological disorders, chronic pain, disability, hypertension, cardiovascular disorders and cancer. After reading the staggering information provided by NCADV, one cannot be oblivious to the severity of consequences that follow avoidance of these issues.

We are often blind to crimes that take place behind closed doors and are shrouded in silence. As many perpetrators hide behind the shadow of religion and the appearance of flawless characters, we far too often become oblivious to the amount of victims that surround us every day. How many smiles around us are fake? How many friends are facing serious relationship issues? How many warnings about potential perpetrators have we overlooked for the sake of conflict avoidance? What problems have we used our religion to cover up because “Things like that would never happen here?”

I would encourage everyone to consider the reality that domestic and sexual assault and abuse are real threats in our communities and religious areas, as well as in broader society.

Perhaps you know a girl that has become increasingly depressed after describing relationship issues. Maybe you know a guy who barely talks about the girlfriend who ignores his boundaries because he is afraid that nobody will believe him.

Please do not merely glance and look away. I know I am guilty of forgetting far too often about the prevalence of these issues in the community around me, but I want to do better – I must do better – about listening, focusing and taking note.

I encourage you to treat every day like Purple Thursday.

Inform yourself of the hidden signs, subtle behaviors, covered scars and small calls for help that come out of sexual and domestic violence.

V God could see that he wasn’t quite finished.

It was still so quiet, silent and still.

For His plan, earth’s space would be diminished, But after all, wasn’t it there to fill?

He created the fish who swim and splash And the mighty whale that breaches and sings, Touching the air and falling with a crash, But, of course, the sperm whale doesn’t have wings.

So, He painted pink on the flamingo.

He sent the chickadee early in noon.

Next was the raven and the kraaing crow.

Piercing the sky, was the song of the lune.

It was in no way a cacophony.

It was the fifth-day-choirsymphony.

VII Now, God finally felt that he was done.

He looked at the lime, the crocus, the clover, The sky and the clouds, the moon and the sun, He saw the starfish, the guppy, the plover.

‘Twas the most perfect thing He could create.

He breathed a light sigh, sat down in a glade, And glanced the moon in its crescent wane state.

If you or someone you know needs help, you can contact resources such as the National Domestic Violence Hotline (800-799-7233), National Dating Abuse Helpline (866-331-9474), and the National Sexual Assault Hotline (800-656-4673).

Southern also has resources available for students. The student handbook states that “individuals who have been subject to sexual harassment” should report their experience to the Title IX coordinator. Contact information for Southern’s Title IX coordinator can be found on the Student Development webpage.

By reaching out for help, we can better protect one another, work towards healing and prove to the world that the God we serve is fully loving.

Members of Southern’s campus stood in solidarity against domestic abuse last week on “Purple Thursday.” Klasing encourages readers to treat every day like “Purple Thursday.” (Photo sourced from Pexels)

RELIGION

Sonnets of creation Afton Logan Contributor I There was a deep shroud of nonexistence.

In the darkness, water lapped at nothing.

A stillness that offered no resistance, But somewhere moved the Spirit of a Being.

God. In which lay a vision of glory.

A brilliance, a flickering white spark.

So, there was light, the first of this story, A burst of warmth to chase away the dark.

The warmth and brilliance was called the day; The shroud of nonexistence was the night.

One created out of a gray and black array; The other a flare of glorious light.

The invention of our earth was underway.

The evening and morning were the first day.

II The sparkling water was divided; In the very middle God set the sky.

The burning blue vaults were ignited With the same color that drips when we cry.

A sapphire blue sea stretched thin below; Made the sky seem a crisp delirium.

But there was no sound nor echo. Even so, God could hear an outcry, a deep full thrum.

This planet was begging for something new.

A breath and a being to walk on the earth.

Something that would see the differing blue.

Something to perceive its meaning and worth.

So, on the second day God made heaven, And would continue until day seven.

III The water began to tumble and roil.

It splashed and heaved great waves in the air.

Out of its depths came a rock and some soil.

On its hard surface was a vacant tear.

From here came the grass, and lilies and trees, The color of green, the towering fir, And all the best things to carry a breeze.

For once on this pale earth, life was astir.

It shot from the dirt and pushed up the ground, Appeared in the veins and venules of leaves.

Then came the flowers stretched upright and proud.

Never was Solomon arrayed like these.

And so, as before, but for the third time, God made a thing that surpassed the sublime.

IV Now there was light, but there wasn’t a sun.

So, God tied a string and hung a bright sphere.

Then came the moon so there wasn’t just one And bright balls of gas to make our way clear.

The blue sky turned pink, then orange and then red, Brand new colors in a dusky display.

As, for the first time, the sun went to bed And cleared a path for the white milky way.

The moon got to waxing, pushing the tide.

The earth chased the sun and started to spin.

This would bring winter, a sparkling bride.

Next would come summer where snow had just been.

You see, on the fourth day of creation God looked up and saw a constellation.

Thus, our God rested from all he had made.

This last day brings us to the end of our tale Of the great earth and the sky up above And the crisp green sea that ships always sail, But in that night-glade all God felt was love.

See, on the very last day, God rested, And since then, He hasn’t been bested.

VI God set a small slimy thing on a rock.

The creature would later be named the tree frog.

He aided the colt as it learned to walk and hitched tusks on the Babirusa Hog. Sure, it was good, but something was missing.

He loved the birds, the grass and the rainstorm, But still God couldn’t help but start wishing For a perfect friend made in his form.

Adam’s eyes opened; he let out a gasp; he sucked in God’s breath which gave him his life.

God stretched out His hand and gave him a clasp, lifting him into a world void of strife.

And in that moment, right where the two stood, God looked and saw that it was very good.

Every living thing bears witness to God’s endless creativity.

(Photo sourced from Pexels)

9 | Wednesday, October 25, 2023

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

LIFESTYLE A reflection on sourcing all my new clothes secondhand in 2023 Allison Grundy Lifestyle Editor This year, I’ve managed to get all of my new clothing from second-hand sources. I had this goal in mind because of my desire to be more sustainable and economical and create a more meaningful and unique wardrobe.

Unfortunately, overconsumption and fast fashion are both issues that stem from the current habits of consumers in the clothing industry. In an article

by BBC, Esme Stallard wrote, “The fashion industry is responsible for 8-10% of global emissions, according to the UN.” Most of the impact of fast fashion stems from the overuse of raw materials and water in the process of making clothing.

Buying clothing secondhand is not always the perfect solution; however, not giving direct profits to the fast-fashion industry makes a difference. And reusing clothes that would have otherwise been thrown away helps to reduce waste. Purchasing clothing secondhand also helps an individual save money.

As a student, this makes a huge difference for me with my limited budget.

Second-hand clothing has become my preferred option, and I don’t ever see myself going back to shopping any other way. Although sustainably building up a wardrobe I love has been a challenging process, I’ve been very happy with my style. I personally prefer more vintage-style clothing, so thrift stores and markets are a great way for me to find pieces I love.

I’ve been able to get all my clothing from second-hand

sources by a variety of avenues, including thrift stores, vintage markets, online fashion marketplaces, clothing pop-ups (my favorite is 423 Night), yard sales, hand-me-downs and reseller social media pages.

My advice for those who are getting into second-hand shopping is that if you are looking for a specific item or brand, I’d suggest looking up the item on online marketplaces. Here you will likely find the items you’re looking for that are used. They’re usually in good condition and available for a good price. Depop and Poshmark are online marketplaces that I like.

Alternatively, if you’re looking for fun but unspecific items, such as t-shirts, jeans or jackets, then I’d suggest going thrifting or to various second-hand sales, because then you can find unique items.

This past year, I’ve probably still bought more clothing than I need. And even with a more mindful approach, at times I still find myself tempted by over-consumption and an unfortunate creeping feeling of discontentment with the clothing I have. The most effective way to accomplish a goal to be more sustainable and economical with clothing is to buy less, which is something I also try to be conscious of.

Additionally, I’ve been trying to branch out and buy other items from second-hand sources when possible. I suspect that as I graduate and look for items for my future home, second-hand shopping will make an even more prominent difference in my life, especially financially. The

non-clothing items I’ve attained secondhand are now cherished items of mine because of their uniqueness.

There’s something so beautiful about giving new life to an item that may have been thrown away. Because of the

Those looking for fun but unspecific clothing items should try thrifiting. (Photo courtesy of Elise Deschamps)

Allison Grundy explores a rack of second-hand clothing, an activity she regularly enjoys.

(Photo courtesy of source)

SOCIAL

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

Dear Kevin Dear Kevin, What is your advice on navigating through the pain of a friendship breakup? How can I work to make a close friend again after the dust settles?

Dear Lonely Lass, Relationships, especially friendships, can bring happiness as well as a lot of challenges. In college, friendships come and go, and that’s ok. Focus on your personal growth and keep building new connections, and you’ll find some fantastic people on this crazy journey. If you want to renew your friendship, and you both feel up for it, try reaching out. Communication is key. Be open to apologizing if you’ve got something to say sorry for, and forgive if needed. Friendship is a two-way street.

Dear Kevin, Ever since the midterm break, I’ve been feeling what I call “break-itis”. My symptoms include feeling extremely relaxed, forgetting about

homework and struggling to get out of bed. Any advice to help pull me through to Thanksgiving?

value it brings to my life, sourcing all my clothes secondhand will be a goal I have in mind for years to come.

#SAUlife L

Lauren Fenwick

E

Emma Tol

Dear Chilled-out Charlie, We’ve all been there. In fact, I’m pretty sure “break-itis” affects almost 99% of college students (don’t fact-check me on that). For a full recovery, I have the perfect mix of prescriptions.

Schedule: Set a schedule for your study time, and stick to it.

Having a plan can work wonders.

Tutoring: Make an appointment with a tutor at the library. Be accountable and get some help.

laurenrfenwick attachment: 10 images

🌥️🎡🌊

Photo Credit: Felix Gillett C

Cason Marr

emma.tol Dollywood Day Photo Credit: Eve Tol

M

🎃🎢

Madeleine Miyashiro

Rest: Don’t forget to recharge.

A good night’s sleep is essential to keep your mind sharp.

Finally, take a daily dose of motivation and remember that Thanksgiving break is just around the corner. You’ve got this, fellow duckling!

Do you have a question for Kevin?

Scan the QR code or click on the link in the Accent’s Instagram bio to submit your question.

blondieboy_1 I’m so thankful!

Photo Credit: Lluvia Pena

mia_may_the_great It’s fall, ya’ll!

Photo Credit: Herself

This week’s winner is @_reyes.irene_. To collect your prize, go to the Student Development office.

A

D

Alexis Dewey

David Lazcano

Knowing that students love shopping, Kevin is offering a:

$10 Gift Card to Walmart DM us on Instagram with a photo of where Kevin is hiding! alexisdeweyy happy one yr <3 Photo Credit: Felix Gillett

dlazcano3 Smoky Mountains 35.5943° N, 83.8418° W Photo Credit: Raquel Lazcano

10 | Wednesday, October 25, 2023

If you would like to be a contributor, contact Amanda Blake at ablake@southern.edu

CHATTER Today — 25 78 - 54

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Weekly Birthdays

Senior Exit Exam (10/23-10/27) @ Bietz Center for Student Life 3rd Floor Faculty Development 12:00 p.m. @ Presidential Banquet Room Mid-Day Teatime & Diversity Chats.

12:00 p.m.

Floor Hockey Captain’s Meeting. 5:00 p.m. @ Hulsey Wellness Center General Music Recital #4. 7:30 p.m. @ Ackerman Auditorium

TODAY |25

Thursday — 26 • • •

Friday ­— 27 82 - 58

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Senior Exit Exam (10/23-10/27) @ Bietz Center for Student Life 3rd Floor Alumni Homecoming (10/26-10/29) Psychology Symposium. 9:00 a.m. 1:00 p.m. @ The Grid Sunset. 6:50 p.m.

Vespers - Student Missions. 7:30 p.m. @ Iles PE Center Afterglow. 8:45 p.m. @ Collegedale SDA Church - South Atrium

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423 Night Market. 9:00 p.m. @ Collegedale SDA Church Alumni Homecoming (10/26-10/29) Katelynn Webster, soprano. 3:00 p.m. @ Ackerman Auditorium

Center for Student Life 3rd Floor Last day to drop a class “W” on transcript for 16 week classes Last day for 40% tuition refund for 16 week classes Alumni Homecoming (10/26-10/29) Convo: Dwain Esmond - Adventist Heritage. 11:00 a.m. @Collegedale SDA Church Mid-Day Teatime & Diversity Chats.

12:00 p.m.

Faculty/Staff Leadership Training. 3:30 - 5:00 p.m.

SA Supper. 5:00 - 6:30 p.m.

Saturday — 28 • •

Sunday — 29

Senior Exit Exam (10/23-10/27) @ Bietz 81 - 59

Alumni Homecoming (10/26-10/29) Connect. 9:00 a.m. @ Goliath Wall // Rain: Collegedale Gym Sabbath Morning Chats. 10:00- 11:15 a.m. @ The Grid Merge Worship. 11:45 a.m. @ Collegedale Academy Elementary School of Music Homecoming Weekend Recital. 4:00 p.m. @ Collegedale SDA Church Evensong - Jordan McKee-Otis, soprano. 7:00 p.m. @ Collegedale SDA Church Southern Shuffle Race. 8:00 p.m. @ J. Mabel Wood Hall

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Tuesday — 31 68 - 37

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Payday Hourly/Students W24 Registration Opens Online for Southern Scholars/Graduate Students President’s Committee. 9:00 a.m.

Monday |30

Jennifer McCary

Randall Burks

Lia Narikawa

Pamela Britton

Ethan Jones

Zitlaly Rios-Sanchez

Lucas Bueno

Ilianie Maurelus

Stefania Solano

Dave Johnson

Luna Rendon

Sarah Yoon

Alina Kasap

James Ahn

Kevin Simamora

Saturday |28

Preston Sturges

Joel Brown

Macy Ottati

Joseph Urbin

Ashley Chua Chua

Brooke Scott

Thursday |26

Munoz

Brayden Standish

Sam Benjamin

Samuel Fisher

Steven Thompson

Amanda Brennan

Nico Goncalves Isaac Jones

Tuesday |31

Kylie McMahan Valeria Moreno

Kathryn Shin

David Chi

Emily Olson

Georgia Tankersley

Michael Danese

Natalie Olson

Tadd M. Trumbull, II

Jared Dangazo

Jhoan Ogando

Cole Boggess

Ryan Ro

Sunday |29

Friday |27

Jorge Cordero

Stephanie Killingsworth

Kristina Bermudez

Isabella Guillen

Gabriella Schlueter

Kevin Collins

Christian Peel

Grace Dorris

Sean Hamilton 84 - 58

Student Activities Announcements Sabbath Chats Join us every Saturday morning at 10 a.m. in the Bietz Center for Sabbath Chats! Sabbath Chats is a Student Association Sabbath school led by students in collaboration with professors to answer relevant questions through the Bible.

423 Night Market is this Saturday night!

SA Supper Come join Student Association on the promenade for a pizza supper on Tuesday, Oct.

Monday — 30 • •

Anna Lewis

Josh Burgess

26, at 5 p.m.

73 - 44

Floor Hockey begins W24 Registration Opens Online for Seniors >93 hrs

MASTER’S DEGREE IN BUSINESS

Business With a Biblical Perspective Southern’s Master of Business Administration degree helps you acquire the skills you need to be successful in today’s workforce—based on the biblical principles of honesty, integrity, and high ethical standards.

It’s convenient All classes are online. Full- and part-time tracks are available, and the MBA can be completed in as little as one year. With careful planning, you can complete a bachelor’s degree AND a master’s degree in five years!

It’s affordable Southern’s competitively priced program is a valuable investment in your future Prep for CPA Review.

Students with an MBA Accounting emphasis may take the Wiley CPAexcel review courses for six of their 12 elective hours.

1.800.SOUTHERN • southern.edu/graduatestudies