The six-year journey of Crosswalk
now. We know He’s going to show up in the future. And He will always be on time, even if it’s not on our timetable.”
As a local Seventh-day Adventist church popular with Southern Adventist University students, Crosswalk Chattanooga, celebrated its sixth anniversary, at the end of October.
According to the Crosswalk website, the multi-campus church started in Redlands, California, with Chattanooga being one of 12 locations.
“We always have kind of a theme that [the anniversary] centers around, and this year our theme is ‘Always on Time,’” said Shastin Rains, the experience director at Crosswalk Chattanooga. “He [Jesus] showed up in the past. He’s showing up
“We came back home and just felt a nudge and started talking with others in our community."
According to Brooks Pruehs, the team chair at Crosswalk, the congregation started with a small group feeling restless in the church that they were attending. Some visited the Crosswalk campus in California, led by Pastor Tim Gillespie. Inspired by his church, which was exploding, they wanted to start a satellite campus.
“We came back home and just
felt a nudge and started talking with others in our community,” said Pruehs. “Just one by one people were like, ‘Yes, we need to do that.’ And so that’s really kind of how it started.”
Meeting in living rooms in January of 2018, the small group began watching sermons from the Redlands church. When 50-60 people were interested, the group took steps to become an official Adventist congregation. After a bit of persuasion, organizers met with Ed Wright, then president of the Georgia-Cumberland Conference, who agreed that the conference would be open if they felt called to start this church, Pruehs said.
For its first pop-up service, in June of 2018, the group
New school of business building faces delays
Alissa Flores Reporter
The new Ruth McKee School of Business, which is under construction near Southern Adventist University’s entrance, will cost more and take longer to complete than originally anticipated, according to Southern President Ken Shaw.
“Our initial estimate was [for it] to be completed by December of 2025 so it would be operable in the Winter 2026 term,” Shaw said in an interview with the Accent. “The new estimate is that the building will be completed in the summer of 2026. The delay will have minimal impact.”
“I was looking forward to the new building and utilizing it. I feel disap- pointed expecting a date that was promised to be pushed back more than a year.”
Marty Hamilton, associate vice president of Financial Administration, reiterated this sentiment.
“It causes no disruption to our current academic programs within the School of Business,” Hamilton said. “The only impact would be seniors graduating who missed being part of the grand opening and taking classes during their last year.”
In contrast, Sharon Duque, a junior majoring in finance and accounting and Vice President of Operations for the SMARRT Fund, stated, “I was looking forward to the new building and utilizing it. I feel disappointed expecting a date that was promised to be pushed back more than a year.”
According to Shaw, administrators from the School of Business, Academic Administration and Financial Administration met to re-evaluate the original plans for the building. After careful examination, the group
decided to add 11,000 square feet to the building. When asked how this affected the project’s budget, Shaw said, “We had estimated the project to be $20 million. The project amount was to include the construction of the building and to have funds be placed in an endowment to support the School of Business. Adding the additional square footage moved the construction portion from $15 million to $18.8 million, so at the time this was still within the $20 million [estimate], projected for the overall
met in the Ooltewah Elementary School gym. According to Pruehs, approximately 225 people attended the first service, and Pastor Gillespie, from Redlands, flew to Tennessee to join them. They continued to hold monthly pop-up services and began meeting weekly on the first weekend of November.
Pruehs said the congregation grew, meeting in different local venues. Because weekly attendance exceeded the occupancy allowed by fire codes, they launched two services in the fall of 2019. But then came COVID19, which temporarily closed the facility the church was using. They continued their outreach ministries and leadership team meetings and watched
past live-streamed services from the CrossWalk church in Redlands. Several months later, they began services in an outdoor venue before moving, in September of 2021, to a Hixson church for monthly services.
"It was an absolute miracle to raise $2 million in 15 days. I mean, we never thought that would happen."
In the fall of 2022, Crosswalk, still growing, did not yet have a pastor. They found a church in the Chattanooga area that they wanted to buy, but the conference was reluctant to make an
See CROSSWALK on page 2
Engineering program beats enrollment goal
Eva Resz Reporter
Southern Adventist University’s Bachelor of Science and Engineering (BSE) program surpassed its four-year enrollment goal, according to Tyson Hall, dean of the School of Engineering and Physics.
The original prospectus for the BSE program estimated a freshman enrollment of 25 engineering students in Fall 2024, bringing the total enrollment to 45. However, this fall, the program welcomed 47 engineering freshmen, for a total engineering enrollment of 97, according to Hall.
“We [collectively, all of the Adventist universities] hesitated to start a four-year engineering [degree] for a long time because we didn’t want to compete with our sister institution, Walla Walla,” Blake Laing, professor of engineering and physics, said in an interview with the Accent.
Laing said that, in the past, among Adventist universities, Walla Walla University was the only institution offering a four-year engineering degree. Southern offered a two-year program and Southern’s engineering students would often go to Walla Walla to complete their degree.
Anaya Parker Reporter
Musicians lead out in song service at Crosswalk Chattanooga.
(Photo by Preston Waters)
Laboratory equipment in Southern's School of Engineering classrooms.
(Photo by Shengzhe Zhao)
The dump truck and excavator being used on the construction site for the new business building. Thursday October 24, 2024. (Photo by Hannah Johnson)
CROSSWALK
continued from page 1
offer because Crosswalk was so new. Eventually, Crosswalk was given 15 days to match the Georgia-Cumberland Conference offer and raise $2 million. Crosswalk was able to raise the money and bought the church, according to an Accent article.
“The cool thing about this was … [that] we had about 225 unique givers, [and] our college student engagement was really high,” said Pruehs. “There was a ton of college students that were giving $50, $100, $500. We had one student that gave a $1,000, you know. And that was a super cool thing to see that God was really moving on the hearts of our community, and it was an absolute miracle to raise $2 mil-
lion in 15 days. I mean, we never thought that would happen.”
According to Pruehs, shortly afterward, Pastor Dave Ferguson, who was the pastor of the university church for several years, became the lead pastor.
Under Ferguson, baptisms and attendance have risen exponentially, with an estimated 50 baptisms in the last year.
According to Pruehs, since purchasing the building two years ago, Crosswalk has continued to grow. He said under Ferguson, baptisms and attendance have risen exponentially, with an estimated 50 baptisms in the last year.
“When Dave came in, we were a community of about 500 people, and now it’s anywhere from 1,000 to 1,200 on the big week-
ends,” said Pruehs. Pruehs estimates that 300 to 400 Southern students attend Crosswalk, and 30 to 40 are actively serving in the services, lobby or children’s services.
Garrett Arner, a freshman political science major who attends Crosswalk, enjoys the song service, welcoming atmosphere, relaxed dress code, coffee and mingling in the lobby.
“I think it is inclusive branding, which I do appreciate, but sometimes it does seem almost a little too relaxed to where it doesn’t feel like an SDA church that much,” said Arner. “Overall, though, I think this new style of church is good for those exploring Adventism or those who are seeking something else besides the more traditional-style churches in the area.”
Ryan Williamson, a freshman nursing major, said, “I
think I’ve been impacted the most by the music at Crosswalk. Seeing the band members’ passion and genuine love for worshiping that is exuded is incredible and extremely impactful, helping me to feel God’s presence.”
This past weekend, members celebrated the congregation’s sixth anniversary, telling their stories, recalling the miracles and casting a vision for the future.
Pruehs said Crosswalk helps keep young adults connected to the church.
“We have tremendous engagement from our Southern students,” he said. “It’s so impressive; so many college students are involved, which is great, because a lot of young people
are leaving the church quicker than we can count them, and so we’re just trying to keep them engaged as long as we can.”
This past weekend, members celebrated the congregation’s sixth anniversary, telling their stories, recalling the miracles and casting a vision for the future.
“We want to create this authentic space of belonging,” said Rains, “a place [where] people from all different backgrounds and walks could come and feel acceptance. So [that’s] our goal, and at the center of all of that is Jesus.”
Die Meistersinger honors founder with concert
Matthew Orquia Editor-in-Chief
During Southern Adventist University’s alumni weekend, the Die Meistersinger Male Chorus, hosted their 50th anniver-
sary reunion concert in the Collegedale Church of Seventh-day Adventists.
Nearly 100 Die Meistersinger alumni sang together for the performance.
Marvin Robertson, former dean
PROGRAM
continued from page 1
However, Laing explained that many prospective students who visited Southern and were interested in the engineering program would often attend a different school in the Southeast rather than an Adventist university.
“So, that’s why we started that four-year program,” said Laing, “because of the students that just want to stay in this area; we want them to have a place to go.”
After decades of offering a two-year pre-engineering program, Southern’s bachelor of science in engineering program opened in Fall 2023. According to Hall, if current enrollment trends continue, the engineering program could grow to over 150 students within the next three years. Laing added that since the four-year program began, his sophomore physics class has tripled; previously, an average of 10 students signed up, but this year, 31 students enrolled.
The School of Engineering and Physics hired an additional engineering faculty member to begin teaching in Winter 2025 and will continue adding equipment to the engineering laboratories to keep up with student enrollment. For upcoming school years, the engineering
Southern Accent
of the university’s School of Music for more than 30 years, and founder of Die Meistersinger, was scheduled to direct the group during the concert, but was unable to due to health concerns, according to Peter Cooper, dean of the School of Music, who gave the concert’s introduction. Robertson directs a Die Meistersinger reunion every five years. Gerald Peel, Southern alumnus, directed the concert in his stead.
Robertson, affectionately referred to by many as “Doc Robertson,” started the Die Meistersinger chorus in 1974. He was involved in many musical groups during his time at Southern, but during the concert, Bruce Coston, a Southern alumnus and former member of Die Miestersinger, said “Doc’s crowning work, though, and the reason we’re
program will also explore adding a fourth emphasis area.
“So, our role in the physics part of the engineering and physics school is to help students get set up for success and [determine] how to accommodate more students coming into this program, [how to] to help students get the support they need in their hard classes, things like tutoring and working in groups, making friends,” Laing said. According to Hall, the first group of students who finished the pre-engineering program and chose to continue studying at Southern will graduate with
the BSE at the end of this academic year.
“We are Adventist educators, and once we have students that want an education, we’d like them to be able to come get that education here and be prepared to do well when they go out in the world — to do well in their career, but also to do well in service,” Laing said. “Our job is to help build a community among those students in their first two years, because that’s going to carry them through into their harder upper-division classes.”
here, was Die Miestersinger.”
Die Meistersinger began when Robertson assembled a group of men to sing for a Christmas concert in 1974. The chorus was so popular that, although Robertson initially had no intention of creating a new vocal group, the male choral group was created.
Nearly 800 people have been a part of Die Meistersinger since 1974, according to Peel.
“Finding your name on the list of Die Meistersinger men that Doc posted on his door after auditions was truly a thrill,” Peel said. “Being a Die Meistersinger was an honor that came with a contract formed of Doc’s highest expectations.”
During the program, Peel announced that funding for the Marvin Robertson Endowed Concert Series was complete, thanks to support from Die
Meistersinger alumni and supporters. He directed the announcement to Robertson, who was watching the concert via live stream.
The concert series will be hosted by the School of Music, according to the concert’s program.
“This will be a permanent homage to the values that Doc embodied: worship, excellence, precision, and beauty,” the program reads.
Over $260,000 has already been pledged to the endowment, according to Peel.
“Now your musical influence will not only be celebrated by those of us who were students in the distant past,” Peel said to Robertson, “but will touch students far in the future, as well.”
Corrections
The story “Southern holds employee town hall meeting,” published in the previous issue of the Southern Accent, contained errors. It was incorrectly stated that Southern rose to the top 30% in US News Best Colleges regional rankings. Southern rose from top 48% in 2022 to top 25% in the 2025 rankings.
In addition, the story did not provide the full context for President Shaw’s comments during the meeting about the price of the Ruth McKee School of Business. Shaw shared that the price estimate per square foot
went up by 20%, bringing the cost for the building to around $23 million.
Administration also clarified the financial numbers reported in the story. Tom Verrill, senior vice president of Financial Administration, explained in an email that $17.9 of the university’s $18.3 million overall financial gain is from market increases to the endowment investments and restricted donations, mostly for capital projects. Therefore, those funds are not available for general operating use.
Lynn Wood Hall is the home of the School of Engineering.
(Photo by Mila Bales)
Die Meistersinger Men's Chorus singing during their anniversary concert
(Saturday October 26, 2024. (Photo by Hannah Johnson)
COLLEGEDALE NEWS
Officer Enoch Hurd dies following motorcycle accident
Emma Rodriguez Collegedale News Editor
The Collegedale community is mourning the loss of Enoch Hurd, a corporal in the Collegedale Police Department (CPD) who passed away, on Friday, Oct. 25, after sustaining severe injuries in an off-duty motorcycle accident earlier this month.
"He was a friend to many, and his posi- tive influence on our city and the lives he touched will always be remembered.”
Hurd, 52, was involved in the accident on Oct. 13 while riding along the scenic Cherohala Skyway, just a mile into North Carolina, according to a press release issued by the CPD. He was accompanied by friends when, tragically, his motorcycle collided with another vehicle pulling a trailer. Hurd’s injuries were the only ones reported from the accident.
DELAY
continued from page 1
campaign.”
Another element administrators had to factor in was an update to their original estimated price for the building’s construction. The initial estimate of $350 per square foot was based on the cost to build the Bietz Center of Student Life, which was completed in 2021, but labor and material costs have increased since then.
“We should have adjusted the cost estimate and the campaign total to be approximately 20% higher, or between $23 million or $24 million,” Shaw said.
Due to the increases in both size and cost, administration is looking for alternate ways to reduce expenses and raise additional funds for the project, according to both Shaw and Hamilton. They said Southern is using value engineering
The accident left Hurd unresponsive, according to police. He was airlifted after a 45-minute wait to a medical facility, where lifesaving measures were attempted on the scene, a press release stated. His injuries proved too severe.
Hurd’s death leaves a void in his department and the community he served.
“Enoch served our community with unwavering honor and integrity for 15 years. "
“We are heartbroken by this loss,” Police Chief Jack Sapp said in the press release. “Enoch served our community with unwavering honor and integrity for 15 years. He was a friend to many, and his positive influence on our city and the lives he touched will always be remembered.”
The release highlighted Hurd’s role within the department, noting his dedication as both a
to review some of the plans and find the best quality options at the lowest available price, as well as competitive bidding. This is in an effort to find savings and possible improvements.
“Ultimately, we don’t want to be short-sided on building a legacy building for the Ruth McKee School of Business and our students into the future,” Hamilton said. “We want to make good decisions and maintain quality for a building that will be here for the next 75 years.”
“Sometimes a pause in a project brings about better solutions. This new building allows us to have room to expand."
According to a previous Accent article, the initial size of the building included blueprint plans to host five study rooms for group projects and study sessions, as well
founding member of the special operations and response team and as part of the motorcycle unit.
His final act of heroism was his decision to be an organ donor.
Hurd was also described as a devoted father of three whose family, friends and colleagues saw as a figure of warmth and kindness. According to the press release, his final act of heroism was his decision to be an organ donor.
“As a tribute to this selfless decision, an Honor Walk was held—a solemn and poignant ceremony that has become a powerful tradition in many hospitals across the nation,” the press release stated. “Family members, friends, hospital staff and fellow officers lined the hallways, creating a path of honor for Cpl. Hurd’s final journey.”
as a multi-functional auditorium that would host 350 students. These plans have now changed. After much deliberation, the auditorium has been resized to fit 400 students, and the classrooms have also been expanded, due to its current size and anticipated increase of enrollment in the future.
“The promise of a new buildingis
like an invest- ment in us business students, giving us the resources and attention we
deserve.”
Duque expressed her experience as a student in the School of Business, sharing that with the current number of students enrolled, she sees the lack of space in Brock Hall. She often hears of people having business classes in Daniells Hall, Mabel Wood Hall, and the 1st floor of Brock Hall, which houses the School of Jour-
nalism and Communication. Duque stated that they really need this new building.
“A five-year history was evaluated on the size of classrooms and labs so we fully understand the need,” Hamilton said. “After reviewing the need, we determined that some classrooms had to be resized. We needed more 40-60 classroom seating versus smaller ones that sat 12-15.”
As construction progresses, the Ruth McKee School of Business will continue to undergo careful evaluation to meet the needs of Southern’s growing business programs. President Shaw remains optimistic about the project’s overall success.
“The building will be a stateof-the-art facility that includes a Business Innovation Center, SMARRT Fund Finance Lab, entrepreneurship team space, collaborative study areas and techdriven classrooms,” Shaw said. Hamilton stated that despite
the brief delay, the future of the Ruth McKee School of Business is promising.
“Sometimes a pause in a project brings about better solutions. This new building allows us to have room to expand,” he said. “It gives us the potential to add more professors and grow new programs as we recruit more majors. It’s really a winwin for the future of Southern!” Duque said the building will benefit future generations, and they will appreciate it as the nursing students appreciate the Advent Health building.
“The promise of a new building is like an investment to us business students, giving us the resources and attention we deserve,” Duque concluded.
New photography business aims to capture the love stories of Chattanooga
Chloe Smith Social Media Manager
Mila Bales, senior mass communication photography major and Anna Sianipar, a local photographer, have merged their talents into a new Chattanooga-based photography business, Pollen. Focusing on wedding and engagement photos, the duo captures candid moments that tell a story for clients to relive special memories.
“We were at my house one night,” Sianipar recalled, “and Mila looked at me and jokingly said, ‘What if we went into business together?’ And, of course, I said ‘yes.’”
From that moment, Pollen began to take shape.
Though the business is new, the duo’s experience in photography goes back several years.
“Anna and I both have been doing our own photography for
many years,” Bales said. “Individually we both specialize in portraits, whether that be creative shoots, grad photos, etc.”
Teaming up offered a supportive solution; going into the industry alone can be overwhelming, according to Bales.
“The idea to collaborate came in the most organic way,” Sianipar said. “After that, opportunities just fell into place, showing us that this was something we should pursue.”
“Our goal is for our clients to look at their photos and truly relive those moments."
When asked what inspired their business name, the duo explained that the word “Pollen” had come up when asking friends for ideas.
“At first, nobody really liked it,” Bales said. “However, when
we started working on this business, ‘Pollen’ just started to stick, and we couldn’t get it out of our heads.”
When the pair discovered that the Instagram handle @pollenphoto was available, they took it as a sign that their new venture was meant to be.
Starting a business together has been an incredible experience for them.
While both individually specialize in portraits, Pollen focuses on wedding and engagement photography. Their style is rooted in capturing genuine moments and the often-overlooked details of an event.
“Our goal is for our clients to look at their photos and truly relive those moments,” Bales explains. Sianipar adds, “We emphasize candid moments that truly tell a story, steering away from the typical ‘stark white’ aesthetic and leaning into a creative, intentional approach.”
Starting a business together has been an incredible experience for them. Mila described working with Anna as feeling like “kids having a playdate, making our dreams come true.”
Looking into the future, the two photographers envision Pollen growing in scope and community engagement. Along with wedding and engagement photography, they want to expand their horizons to include
candid photos at local events, as they did at their recent 423 Market photobooth.
“Our photo booth at 423 was a great way to meet some of our community, and we absolutely loved taking pictures of different friend groups on digital cameras in Anna’s van,” Bales said. “This is something we can definitely see Pollen doing again for other events on top of our engagement and wedding photography.”
As they build their portfolio, their goal remains to create an experience that feels as unique and authentic as the moments they capture. Those interested in booking Pollen for their photography needs can contact @pollenphoto on Instagram.
Collegedale Police Officer Enoch Hurd passed away on Friday, Oct. 25 after a motorcycle accident. (Photo courtesy of the Collegedale Police Department)
For business inquiries reach out to @pollenphoto on Instagram.
(Photo by courtesy of source)
Mila Bales and Anna Rose at 423 Market.
(Photo courtesy of source)
HOMECOMING WEEKEND
An antique car was displayed on campus during alumni weekend.
Friday October 25, 2024. (Photo by Shengzhe Zhao)
Steve Martin plays guitar during the Die Meistersinger anniversary concert.
Saturday October 26, 2024. (Photo by Hannah Johnson)
Die Meistersinger Men's Chorus sings in the Collegedale Church of Seventh-day Adventists for for their anniversary concert.
Saturday October 26, 2024. (Photo by Hannah Johnson)
Gerard Peel directs the audience during the Die Meistersinger concert.+
Saturday October 26, 2024. (Photo by Hannah Johnson)
The Die Meistersinger Men's Chorus is directed by Gerard Peel. Saturday October 26, 2024. (Photo by Hannah Johnson)
MENTAL HEALTH
Tips for overcoming the fear of failure
Abby Dizon Contributor
Editor’s Note: The following articles are written by counseling professionals and students from Counseling Services in partnership with the Southern
The fear of failure is common among college students, driven by the belief that perfect grades lead to a good GPA and a successful future.
The pressure to excel academically can result in a negative perspective of failure. By applying the following strategies during your academic journey, you can not only avoid the pitfalls of failure but also develop resilience and a positive mindset, which will improve your overall well-being and success.
One tip is to break down goals into smaller, manageable steps. For example, if your goal is to earn an A in a class, and you’re anxious about failing, break it down into smaller steps. Begin by attending all the lectures, and if you are tempted to skip class, imagine the consequences.
Another small goal would be to complete assignments early in order to give yourself time to review and edit. By creating SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Timely) goals, you’ll find that your fear of failure will diminish, and you will be more likely to succeed in reaching your larger goal.
Although these preliminary goals may seem minor, they are designed to give you a boost of confidence as you tackle challenging but not overwhelming tasks and obstacles. These small steps can lead you toward your main goals and prevent you from feeling overloaded.
However, if you are faced with failure, redefining it puts you a step closer to overcoming your fear, according to an article by certified counselor Tanya J. Peterson. Instead of seeing failure as a life-ending disaster, view it as a temporary situation. When I find myself on the brink of failure before a test or a presentation I feel unprepared for, I remember that this moment is temporary and that in a day or a week this will all be over, and I will move on.
Another helpful strategy is to remember that there will be other opportunities for success. If I fail a test, rather than dwelling on the loss, I try to learn and grow by examining what I could do better for future tests. Lastly, remember that failing does not determine your worth. A minor setback will not hold you back. Numerous successful individuals have met failure but persevered to achieve greatness. For example, the world-renowned basketball player Michael Jordan
didn’t make the basketball varsity team in high school.
Jordan said, “I have missed more than 9,000 shots in my career. I have lost almost 300 games. On 26 occasions I have been entrusted to take the game-winning shot, and I missed. I have failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed.” Setbacks do not define your potential. Failure is a fleeting and temporary situation, not the end to
your path. There will be times of failure that are out of your control, but life moves on, and it is important to remember that those moments do not define your capabilities. Rather than viewing failure as a permanent obstacle, view it as a valuable lesson and an opportunity for growth. The most successful people have encountered failure along their journey and used it as a springboard for their success.
SPORTS
Goodbye, Oakland: An A’s fan reminisces and bids farewell to his childhood team — PT. 1
Jacob Nevis Sports Editor
It was the summer of 2012. I had just turned 10 years old, and I was so excited that we were getting to watch my favorite baseball team, the Oakland Athletics, play at the Oakland Coliseum. My dad and grandpa, both big A’s fans, had been wanting to see a game that season, so we had finally decided to go. When we arrived at the Oak-
land Coliseum on a hot summer day, I saw many bubbly fans in the parking lot, ready to see the A’s win that day. Once we got into the stadium, there were people everywhere.
Before we got to our seats, however, I heard my stomach growl, so my older brother and I stood in a long line to get overpriced concession items. After we finally collected our nachos and sodas, my older brother and I headed to our seats.
Since my family didn’t go to sports games very often, we had gotten pretty good seats for this game.
As we made our way to the third base line on the lower level, I saw many of the fans, in bright yellow and green, pouring into their seats to watch the A’s play. After the national anthem was finished, the game was about to start and the stadium was almost full.
When the game finally got underway, fans were excited and loud. I was sitting in my seat in
awe about how passionate the fans were.
I had decided then that I would become a loyal A’s fan. As the game went on, the infamous right field crowd started to make their usual loud noise. Their drums were in full force, pounding in unison and taunting the opposing team. As the 9th inning approached, the A’s were ahead and looked like they were going to win the game, and I was excited.
As the game finished, the A’s
did indeed beat the Texas Rangers, and I went wild along with the crowd of thousands. As at every home game the A’s win, the stadium started to play “Celebration” by Kool and the Gang.
As my family and I left the stadium, I couldn’t stop thinking about when we would come back to another game.
Editor’s Note: This article is part of a two-part series.
Intramural Schedule: Football Intramural Championship Games
6:00 pm - Ladies’ B Championship Game
7:00 pm
- Men’s B Championship Game
8:00 pm
- Ladies’ A Championship Game
9:00 pm - Men’s A Championship Game
(Photo sourced from Unsplash).
OPINION
On boredom and creativity: Start them young!
Alicia Anderson Contributor
When I started an off-campus babysitting job this semester, the mom briefed me on each of her kids. She told me, “I only give them one hour of screen time every week, and if they want to skip this week, I add it to the next one.”
Her daughter, age 6, has opted out of this privilege every week for more than 14 weeks and shows no desire to stack up her hours for an iPad binge.
Last semester, I babysat in the evenings for a church, where I witnessed a different side of the screen-time battle. Every night, from 6:30 to 9 p.m., the kids were unable to focus on anything, listen to directions or even have a basic conversation. Some of them would bring their own iPads, clad in one of those thick iPad cases so their small hands could grip the device easily.
I recall trying to talk to a 5-year-old child and asking him about his favorite color, but he could not give me a straight answer. I’d try to ask him another question, and still, he’d give no full sentences or even single-word answers. The difference between these two groups of children was that the kids I babysit have no idea the extent of what they lack (in screen time) and thus they do not desire it.
When I think back on my own formative years, I remember a mix of using the family devices for games but also experiencing the innate creativity of childhood. There were so many thoughts to be had, things to be
said and silly ideas to be created with one’s young friends. The memories that stand out the most from childhood are from moments when I was so bored that I had to invent something to keep me occupied—like the time I estimated the number of windows in a skyscraper just from looking at it from far away.
Even with the numbing effect of all the screens they are exposed to, I still feel as if children are maybe the most creative people because they seek no limits to their ideas.
The kids I babysit now are
some of the most creative and well-spoken children I have ever met. Their creativity knows no bounds as they create strategies in Parcheesi, invent games and convince me to act like a spider-esque superhero as I save them from the imaginative burning building. On the other hand, the children at the church would yell at us to play Bluey on the TV night after night, pulling up miniature chairs and sitting there transfixed until their short attention spans would run out and they would race around jumping from one thing to another.
Reflecting on my own daily habits, I realize I am too addicted to the mind-numbing overload of my smartphone, just as the “iPad babies” were addicted to their screens. The shock of finding out that the kids I babysit only use their iPads for an hour every week forced me to reflect on the fact that I would not survive such a restriction. At my most stressed points, Instagram reels and TikToks provide just the momentary comfort needed to get through an uncomfortable 15 minutes I would have spent with my thoughts.
In thinking of the beautiful, creative minds of children, we should acknowledge that we still hold that potential, even as adults. We just might need to allow ourselves some boredom and silence, rather than ushering it away with our screens.
Editor’s Note: The Opinion Section encourages multiple perspectives, so please feel free to send a response or other opinions for future articles to allisongrundy@southern.edu.
RELIGION
Engaging with spiritualism in our everyday lives
Lucas Bueno Religion Editor
It was the night of the 31st. Not of October, but of March. On March 31, 1848, the Fox sisters once again heard the rappings in the walls of their house. The eerie noises had begun four years earlier, in 1844.
The sisters had already witnessed other terrifying phenomena, including the movement of furniture, the ripping-off of bed coverings by the unseen and the presence of an unusual man lurking around the Fox family house. For the record, the house had already been considered haunted before the Fox family arrived.
Nevertheless, two of the sisters decided to try to communicate with the rapping noises. They succeeded. Joined by their mother and older sister, they formed a communication code with what they believed was a spirit. The spirit told the Fox sisters that a dead man had been buried beneath their house. They dug a hole and therefore verified the spirit’s claim. These events brought the Fox sisters to the public eye, and they became mediums.
In this very house, the modern-day movement of Spiritualism was conjured into existence, not far from the farmhouse of Hiram Edson, a Millerite Adventist, and not far from the vision locations of Mormonism’s founder, Joseph Smith. Though the Fox sisters were often accused of fraud, Ellen G. White affirmed the reality of the first rappings as the work of the Devil, the deceiving serpent of old.
From a wider historical perspective, however, the movement of Spiritualism had existed since mankind accepted the first lie of the serpent in the garden of Eden: “You will not surely die,” Genesis 3:4, ESV.
Spiritualism has manifested in many forms throughout world history, maintaining the idea that people have immortal souls and that it is possible to communicate with those who have died.
Since ancient times, some holidays have celebrated witchcraft and communication with spirits, resulting in our modern Halloween, a holiday glorifying the Devil.
Today, we find spiritualism everywhere around us. Almost every movie and TV show these
days has some form of spiritualism, with ghosts appearing or characters performing witchcraft or sorcery. The serpent has succeeded in making these practices normalized and even excused as mere fantasy, not reality.
What does the Word of God say concerning this lie of spiritualism? Isaiah 8:19-20 NIV says, “When someone tells you to consult mediums and spiritists, who whisper and mutter, should not a people inquire of their God? Why consult the dead on behalf of the living?
Consult God’s instruction.”
From this verse and many others, it is clear that God does not want His people to associate with spiritualism, witchcraft and the Devil and his fallen angels. Communicating with the dead is dangerous, because the actual dead cannot communicate; thus, any communication that occurs is with demons.
Yet, so many Christians are okay with watching these things on their screens or reading them in books or celebrating Halloween.
I don’t want to step on people’s
toes, as I used to consume media that would involve some form of spiritualism. It can be easy to justify it as simply fantasy, sci-fi or maybe some religious allegory. However, God forbids it in Scripture. We are also told in the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy that spiritualism will increase in the last days and demons will appear as the dead to spread Satan’s lies.
Because God clearly condemns spiritualism, we need to ask ourselves if it is acceptable to celebrate holidays and consume media that reflect that belief.
Screen time, especially at a young age, can affect a child’s ability to be creative. (Photo sourced from Unsplash)
The actions of the Fox sisters conjured a modern movement of spiritualism that has normalized Satan’s
Take a swim: My experience with water aerobics
Linda Kirby Contributor
The Hulsey Wellness Center offers a wide variety of options for exercise. From its well-equipped gym to the two pools, the facility provides many ways to enjoy the fitness process. One of the lesser-known exercise opportunities that Hulsey provides is a ladies-only low-impact water aerobics class.
Every Monday, Wednesday and Friday morning at 7:30 a.m., a group gets together in the Hulsey pool for an hour of water aerobics.
The self-led session includes cardio, strength training with weights, a core workout using empty orange juice containers, and exercises to improve flexibility with the help of stretches and pool noodles. Finally, the ladies wrap up the morning by volleying a beach ball.
Over the summer when I was at home, I started going to a water aerobics class with some of my family. It was a very chill class that didn’t push me too much physically. Because of this experience, I didn’t expect much when my sister and I first started going to water aerobics at Hulsey; however, the exercises made me sore right from the start. While this class may not provide the most intense workout, I have definitely seen an improvement with my overall health.
Besides the great exercise, water aerobics has also been a positive social outlet for me. The ladies are all really friendly and consistently make a point to say “hi” to my sister and me. Many of them are old enough to be our grandma, yet they always invite us to the fun events
they plan, even though we are unable to go to most of them. If my sister or I ever miss a day for some reason, they always reach out to us to make sure we are doing okay and to let us know that they missed us. This consistent kindness provides a warm and welcoming community.
Another aspect that I really love about water aerobics is that it’s fun! For different parts of our exercise, we sing songs such as “Row, Row, Row Your Boat,” “The
Hokey Pokey,” “If You’re Happy and You Know It” and “On a Bicycle Built for Two.” These always get everyone smiling and laughing. We also gather in the middle of the pool and say good morning to the lifeguard; then we say, “happy Monday” or “happy hump day” or “TGIF” and chant and clap “It’s a very, very good day!” three times. This lifts my attitude no matter how I was feeling to begin with, as it does for everyone else in the pool.
Before joining water aerobics, I struggled to find any enjoyment in exercise. Going to the gym was overwhelming, and any exercise I did outside of the gym felt awkward and forced. Water aerobics is one of the very few forms of exercise I have enjoyed and been able to consistently do. Its convenience and sense of community keep me coming back, even if I don’t feel like working out. No matter how stressed or grumpy
I feel when I wake up, I always leave water aerobics feeling more alert, energetic and happy. If you can relate to anything I have just shared or even if you are simply curious about water aerobics, the group would love to include you in the next water aerobics class! You can find us in the Hulsey pool on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 7:30 a.m.
SOCIAL
Mini-Crossword Puzzle
Created by Ana K. Zelidon
Water aerobics is a lesser-known opportunity for exercise that Hulsey Wellness Center provides. (Photo by Linda Kirby).
alf_trev_jr_ eh? Photo Credit: Charlynneth Dizon
ana.beiling mini photo session from fall break
Photo Credit: Eliana Morales
Alfredo Trevedan
Eliana Morales A E
jeanetteolayo “Goal setting is the secret to a compelling future” - Tony Robbins
Photo Credit: Rosa Elia Mendieta
Jeanette Olayo J
lol_ade_ All these shooting stars in the dark, make a wish Photo Credit: Danielle Taylor
catarina.falcao nights like these>> Photo Credit: April Espinoza Lolade Akintayo
Catarina Falcao L C
kasual.kyle Fall is really falling you
Photo Credit: Brandon Gonie
Kyle Parsaoran K
CHATTER
•
• 6:30 pm Vespers: GYCSE, David Shin @ Collegedale Church of Seventh-day Adventists
• 6:45 pm Sunset
• 7:30 pm Student Association: Vespers
• 8:30 pm Vespers: GYCSE, David Shin @ Collegedale Church of Seventh-day Adventists
Daylight Savings Time
3:00 pm Recital: Allyson Stirewalt, mezzo-soprano @ Ackerman Auditorium
Last Day for 40% Refund
Last Day to Receive a “W” Grade (16 Week Classes)
Purple Thursday
• 11:00 am Convocation: Pastor Manual Gomez @ Collegedale Church of Seventh-day Adventists
• 8:00 pm Student Association: Senate @ Bietz Center Multipurpose Room
Weekly Birthdays
10:00 am - 11:30 am French Sabbath School @ Lynn Wood Hall 11:00 am - 6:30 pm SOAP: Outdoor Church, Rock Climbing (Free) @ Wright Hall 11:45 am Merge Worship @ Collegedale Academy Elementary Gym
• 11:45 am Renewal @ Collegedale Church of Seventh-day Adventists
• 6:30 pm Evensong: Collegedale Academy Orchestra @ Collegedale Church of Seventh-day Adventists
7:30 pm Concert: Tribute to PDQ Bach @ Ackerman Auditorium Answers to Crossword: 1D:Trades 3D: Earth 4D: Maya
• 8:00 pm - 11:00 pm Pickleball Tournament @ Iles P.E. Center
Election Day Senior Pre-Registration (94 Earned Hours) 12:00 pm Tornado Siren Test 6:00 pm Floor Hockey Intramurals Begin
December Senior Deadline for Transients/ Incompletes & Progress Grades Southern Scholars & Graduate Pre-Registration 3:30 pm Undergraduate Curriculum Committee @ Wright Hall Robert Merchant Room
MASTER’S DEGREE IN BUSINESS
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.