Vol. 79 Issue 19

February 28, 2024

Lifestyle | 7

Five nearby spring break beach destinations

Southern Accent

Vol.

Benitez wins SA president by 40 votes, Trevedan and Dizon secure VP positions

Amanda Blake Editor-in-chief

Edvan Benitez won Student Association (SA) president last Thursday in the closest presidential election since 2013, when Southern Adventist University began using SurveyMonkey to conduct voting. Benitez, senior theology major, beat his opponent, Bryson Baird, sophomore engineering major, by 40 votes.

One thousand and eighty-six students voted in this year’s general election for the 2024-2025 SA officers. Benitez received 563 votes (51.84%), while Baird received 523 (48.16%).

Voters elected Alfredo Trevedan, junior accounting major, as executive vice president (VP). Trevedan ran unopposed for the position and received 1,023 “yes” votes (94.2%).

Charlynneth Dizon, junior psychology major, received 797

votes (73.39%) for social VP, beating Priscille Mikala, sophomore music major, by 508 votes.

Community Emphasis

During election speeches, given during convocation on Thursday, Feb. 15, Benitez said, “I want to emphasize that I want to serve you because this campaign is not about me. It’s about us. It’s about our community.”

In a recent interview with the Accent, Benitez once again highlighted his focus on community by pointing out that each of the winning candidates’ campaign platforms focused on connection and friendship.

“We want to build community here on campus,” he said. “Especially for me, I have a heart for those who feel lonely.”

According to Benitez, loneliness is a prominent issue on campus. He has spoken to sev-

Southern president engages with construction management students

Emma Boughman Reporter

During a recent visit to the Construction Management Program, Southern Adventist University President Ken Shaw spoke with the students about their studies and spread mortar on blocks with them in the warehouse masonry lab. Shaw said he was involved in construction while at Southern as a student.

“When I was at Southern, I worked with the construction crew and enjoyed the practical experience,” he explained. “I also helped build houses in the summer, helped masons lay block for

a cafeteria, [and] put in a foundation for a nursing home facility, etc.”

Josh Castro, a sophomore construction management major, said Shaw came to interact with and encourage students.

“It seems like President Shaw really cares for the students and goes out of his way to interact with us,” said Castro.

Shaw told them stories about his fieldwork and his belief that construction is a great trade.

“Students are why this university exists. I always enjoy better understanding our students’ experiences,” Shaw said.

See CONSTRUCTION on page 2

eral students about their Southern experience, he said, and while many have given him positive feedback, they also mention a deficient social aspect.

Trevedan began his election speech by describing his personal struggle to build quality connections on campus as a freshman.

“Why don’t people invest in me the way I do to them?” he said to the audience, explaining the feelings he’d experienced as a campus newcomer. “Does my existence even matter?”

He then introduced the cornerstone of his campaign: Southern Adventist University Community Emphasis (SAUCE).

“I obviously can’t force the student body to create relationships with other people, but I am excited to create spaces and opportunities for students to build relationships,” Trevedan said during a recent interview with the Accent.

During her speech, Dizon summed up her platform using the phrase: “Strengthening bonds and faith.” In an interview with the Accent, she said she is looking forward to implementing both aspects of her campaign slogan on campus and described her desired combination of bonds and faith as true Christian fellowship.

“It’s quite challenging for me to put the spiritual aspect to social things, and God knows about this, too,” she said. “And God knows that I’ve been telling Him, ‘Lord, I am not qualified for this position.’ But God said, ‘No, Cha Cha, I didn’t call you here because you’re qualified. I called you here to make you qualified for this position.’”

Dizon plans to create events that help people step out of their regular social circles and have

See SA on page 3

McKee Library integrates VR headsets into learning resources

Lia Colon Staff Writer

McKee Library recently purchased virtual reality (VR) headsets to provide “an immersive virtual reality education gaming experience,” according to a flyer posted by the library.

Mica Myers, periodical librarian, said students must reserve study room 131 to rent out one of the two available VR headsets, and first-time users will need to take a short quiz online and receive a certificate. Once completed, students must bring their own headphones, wired or wireless, to connect to the headset.

“As soon as they show us that they completed the quiz and that they have earbuds, we check it out to them in the system, and they can use it in this room [131] for three hours,” said Myers.

According to Myers, four programs are currently installed on the headsets. One is the International Space Station, which allows students to explore the space station as if they were there. Another is a science lab experiment associated with the TV series “MythBusters,” in which people conduct wild experiments and supervise episode development. Lastly, the library installed Beat Saber, a popular rhythm game.

Myers said she is looking into adding a program that allows students to go into and explore the human body virtually.

See VR on page 2

Lifestyle Medicine Club to host ‘Chopped’-style cooking challenge

Amy Mejias Reporter

On Saturday, March 2, at 8 p.m, the Lifestyle Medicine Club will host a “Chopped Challenge” in Hulsey Room 3135. This challenge will be based on the popular Food Network TV game show “Chopped,” where four chefs face off against each other by making a meal out of mystery items in their basket for the chance to win a cash prize.

The university expects approximately 80 people to attend the free event, according to Michael Scribner, senior allied health and pre-nutrition major, who is the

Lifestyle Medicine Club president. “However, we hope everyone who wants to come is able to attend,” he added. Scribner said the club wants the Chopped Challenge to inspire viewers to incorporate lifestyle medicine practices to improve their quality and length of life. The students’ vision for the event is based on the TV show, where chefs interact with the audience through a narrator and judges provide interesting feedback to help viewers understand the created dish without having to taste it themselves, Scribner said. He added that snacks will be available.

“We came up with this idea since an officer of our club had friends who put on this event at their former school,” Scribner said. “It was a big hit, so we thought we would try it out and put a healthier spin on the competition by using only plantbased whole foods.”

The Lifestyle Medicine Club’s mission is to provide information about lifestyle medicine and educate others on an evidence-based practice of helping individuals and families adopt and sustain healthy behaviors that positively affect health and quality of life.

See CHOPPED on page 2

(Left-right) Alfredo Trevedan, Edvan Benitez and Charlynneth Dizon present their election campaign speeches at convocation. Thursday, February 15, 2024. (Photos by Andrew Boggess)

Ken

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CONSTRUCTION

continued from page 1

According to Andy Baker, assistant professor of applied technology, construction management is a degree that prepares students for many jobs within the field.

“The first two years are residential heavy with a lot of hands-on training of the trades as well as residential codes and estimating, to name a few,” Baker said.

The next two years involve commercial large-scale management projects. Classes such as Contract Administration, Commercial Estimating, and Scheduling and Planning prepare students for the industry. After graduation, they can take the state licensing exam for commercial construction.

Castro said he and other students attend labs and learn how to be future builders. Core courses include Fundamentals of Building, Methods and Materials, Structures, Construction Safety, Blueprint Reading and Plumbing.

“I really enjoy the labs because they are hands-on,” Castro said.

CHOPPED

continued from page 1

“We have a great panel of judges with familiar faces to campus, including overt and covert chefs, professors and advisors," said Julia Dinger, vice president of the Lifestyle Medicine Club and senior nursing major. "We are expecting some great feedback and maybe even some humor!”

Dinger said she first became interested in lifestyle medicine when she had a chronic illness as

“We can go from hearing how to do something to actually doing it.”

John Spence, an adjunct professor in the Applied Technology program, said his role includes taking students from the textbook into the real world of masonry, since they learn how to create an entire house within the program. He believes other students should know more about the Construction Management Program to make

“a more informed choice” in their careers and studies.

It was Spence who invited Shaw to the masonry lab. He wanted his students to know that Shaw cared about the field they had chosen to pursue.

Shaw expressed appreciation for the Construction Management Department and the professors and staff who are willing to share their knowledge.

a teenager. She said she would visit doctors but would not receive an answer or solution to her symptoms.

Dinger continued, “When I came to Southern and started nursing, I found that I wanted to learn more about nutrition, exercise and other lifestyle medicine topics beyond what I was learning in nursing school. After talking with a few of my classmates and professors who also had some similar experiences and passions, we decided to create a lifestyle medicine club on campus.”

The Lifestyle Medicine Club formed at Southern in 2022, according to Scribner. The campus organization is associated with the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, which is founded on the six pillars of lifestyle medicine: nutrition, physical activity, stress management, restorative sleep, social connection and avoidance of risky substances.

“We have sponsored a plethora of events that involve volunteering at farms, enjoying nutritious meals while watch-

VR

continued from page 1

According to the app description on the Google Play Store, this app can give students mental imagery and immersive learning that can increase their memory power and knowledge retention.

Myers said the library would purchase additional headsets if student demand were high, but

its VR headsets are currently not used very often. She said students feel they are in a “fishbowl” when they use VR in that room. Students cannot take the headsets to a different location.

“Libraries, in general throughout history, try to stay updated with the advancement of how information is conveyed.” Myers said. “The VR headset was just another step in that direction of another thing that’s popular.”

ing nutrition documentaries, club vespers and many more,” Scribner said. To date, the club’s most popular event was a “Dinner With the Doctor” lecture featuring Gregory Steinke, a board-certified lifestyle medicine family doctor and published author who works for LifeMed Clinic in Chattanooga. In addition to Steinke’s lecture on the importance of the brain-gut connection, Scribner says the organizers provided a healthy meal for about 80 people who attended.

Dinger noted, “I have loved being part of this club for the past two and a half years! I will be graduating in May and moving on to the next chapter with a few other members of our leadership team, so we would love to mentor those interested in the leadership roles we have held.”

Those passionate about promoting health and wellness can contact the Lifestyle Medicine Club on Instagram at @sau_lifestylemed to join or to stay up-todate on its upcoming events.

University weighs options for utilizing CA Elementary gym

Alissa Flores Reporter

Southern Adventist University faculty and students have been discussing new ideas and plans regarding the use of the Collegedale Academy (CA) Elementary gymnasium within the next few years.

CA Elementary is moving into a new building that is expected to be finished in 2025, according to a previous Accent article. One of the ideas for the building is to provide an additional venue so Southern students not taking part in intramurals could play sports regularly.

Judy Sloan, dean of the School of Health and Kinesiology, said courts in Iles P.E. Center are being utilized more frequently than in the past, which has led to reduced hours for open gym time. According to Sloan, this is due not just to an increase in intramural games, but other university events that use the facility during open gym hours.

In an interview with the Accent, Troy Walker, associate professor in the School of Health and Kinesiology and director of intramurals, said the large group of students who use the gym but do not play intramurals deserve an open recreational space.

“The intramural program cutting into open gym time is an issue that needs to be addressed,” he said.

Tom Verrill, senior vice president for Financial Administration, answered questions in an

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email interview about the university’s plans for future use of the buildings at the elementary school, and specifically regarding the gymnasium.

“First, it is important to acknowledge that plans for the use of the Collegedale Academy Elementary School building are preliminary and have not been finalized, other than it will be used primarily for academic/classroom space,” Verrill stated. “We are developing plans for various Allied Health programs that could be housed in this building, including a new Doctor of Physical Therapy program. Current plans are to utilize the gymnasium area as lab space for these programs.”

Although the department has tentative plans for future use of the gymnasium, Verrill said he would consider hearing out new possibilities.

“I really do think administration should seriously consider the gymnasium space for open rec for Southern students."

“To this point, the possibility of using this gymnasium as ongoing open gym space for university students has not been explored,” Verrill stated. “Based on the situation as it has been outlined, university administration will need to review various possible uses for the gymna-

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sium space and other spaces on campus to meet the needs of growing academic programs and student activities.”

When asked about the timeline for implementing such plans, Verrill explained that after the elementary school moves to its new location – which is projected to be in the summer of 2025 – work crews will need several months to renovate the space for university use. The earliest semester that the facility could be utilized is Fall 2026.

Trey Gettys, a Southern alumnus who has worked with the intramurals program since 2020, said he believes opening the elementary gym from time to time would be a great idea.

“With another court or two available in the new gym, many extra games could be played each week,” Gettys said. “There could also be the possibility of adding additional intramural sports, such as handball, with a new gym available.”

Gettys said during the winter months, when open gym time is minimal, he has had to ask groups of friends using the gym space to clear the courts for intramurals. He understands that it is an annoyance to students who want to play in the gym.

Carlos Torres, junior public relations major, is actively involved in sports on campus and has noticed the change in available gym time.

“There used to be a time in which we could just go to the gym and play whenever we

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wanted; there was still time to play,” Torres said. “Now we have to reserve our time way ahead of schedule to even have the chance to play. Sometimes, we don’t even get to play for weeks.”

Torres said that since the elementary gym is within walking distance and already has the amenities necessary for recreational use, Southern should use the building for intramurals.

Sloan agrees.

“I really do think the administration should seriously consider the gymnasium space being used as a space for open rec for Southern students because it already exists,” Sloan said. “I believe that our administration listens, and then tries to make the best decision that would impact the students in the most positive way possible.”

According to Walker, the School of Health and Kinesiology will make many decisions based on factors such as budget, supervision and coverage. To implement students’ use of the gym would require hiring paid student workers and ensuring the availability of equipment for checkout.

Sloan said she believes this idea is attainable, but considering that it will be some time before the buildings are ready for use, now is the time to have these kinds of conversations.

“It really is an issue that we’re facing,” Torres said. “And even though to some it might seem minor, it’s still something that’s very relevant to the student population.”

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Ivan Carreon uses the VR headset in McKee Library. Friday, February 23, 2024. (Photo by Ron Cabacungan)

Collegedale Academy Elementary. Tuesday, February 27, 2024. (Photo by Amanda Blake)

Adjunct Professor John Spence speaks with student Hunter Holland during class. Wednesday, February 14. 2024. (Photo by Andrew Boggess)

SA continued from page 1

fun doing activities that align with the university’s Christian center.

Fulfilling Promises Benitez listed several plans for student life improvement in his campaign platform, including the addition of electric scooters and a food delivery service to campus, among other things.

When asked about the feasibility of fulfilling his campaign promises next year, Benitez said the ideas included in his platform were pre-approved by Student Development, a signal that both Dennis Negrón, vice president for the department, and Alexis Grentz, director of student life and activities, believe they can be accomplished.

“Actually, I got pushback for other ideas that I had,” Benitez said. “You know, I had even more ambitious ideas. … Alexis talked to me, and Dr. Negrón. They were like, ‘No, I don’t think you can make this promise. I don’t think you can make this happen.’ And I had to remove them from my platform.”

Some of the ideas Benitez removed were adding artificial turf to Southern’s soccer fields, building outdoor futsal courts, paying cultural club officers and giving bonuses to CK2 workers.

Trevedan took a different approach than Benitez when creating his platform.

“There are very few things that I have promised for this school year, and that was intentional,” he said. “That’s because I don’t want to create this sense of false hope [among] the students that eventually leads to a sense of disappointment.”

However, Trevedan plans to meet soon with Joseph Khabbaz, vice president of spiritual life, to begin planning the “Afterglow Mingle” part of his platform, a post-Vespers event meant to engage students in joint activities. He is also brainstorming ways to benefit campus through material purchases. One addition he is considering is a handicap ramp connecting the promenade to the McKee Library entrance.

Trevedan said he is excited to lead Student Senate.

“We want to build community here on campus. Especially for me, I have a heart for those who feel lonely."

“I think that the work Senate does is very meaningful in the way that they represent the student body [and] create spaces and opportunities for the student body to feel heard, [and they] also give back to the students,” Trevedan said.

Dizon said she began scheduling events Thursday night after

learning she had won the social VP position during a phone call from current SA President Jared Chandler. Events listed in her platform include a Welcome Back Party titled “FunFest: SAU Edition,” a reverse escape room and two banquets, one focused on diversity and the other on spiritual fellowship, among other things.

“If I make a promise, I will make that promise happen,” Dizon told the Accent, “because I want [students at] Southern to experience something new that will help them, really, further on in their life to have a strong foundation for their faith and to be exposed more to different opportunities.”

The Accent contacted Baird and Mikala to ask if they plan on running for SA again or pursuing other leadership positions on campus.

Baird wrote in an Instagram message that he wasn’t planning to run for president this year until Negrón called him during the winter break and asked him to run. According to Baird, he saw a lot of support for his platform, which focused on improvements for residence life and spiritual culture.

“There seemed to be no hidden fees or expenses the students would have to pay for, because, to my knowledge, based on what I heard from faculty, there was already money raised for some of the projects I wanted to do,” he wrote about his plat-

form. “The money was raised years ago but wasn’t used for its intended purpose.”

Baird said he will not run for SA again, because next school year will be his last year at Southern. However, he will be a Southern Village resident assistant and is considering another role in the Office of Ministry and Missions.

“I am praying for Edvan as he goes forward in his role as SA president,” he wrote. “I hope

he will be able to achieve what he set out to do and that it will work out well for the campus.”

Mikala also messaged the Accent via Instagram and wrote that she is not planning to run for social VP again.

“I am thinking about pursuing leadership positions on campus for the 24-25 school year; not sure what positions yet,” she wrote. “I will go where God leads me.”

Election Statistics

Dennis Negrón, vice president for Student Development, shared the following statistics with the Accent:

776 students voted in the SA primary election on Feb. 15.

• On Feb. 22, an email was sent to 2,272 students asking them to vote in the SA general election. 2,192 students opened the email. 1,086 students voted, 48% of those who received the email.

30% of those who voted were sophomores. 17% were seniors. This is the second lowest general election voter turnout (based on the percentage of students who received the election email that voted) in the past 5 years, although it is significantly higher than the voter turnout in 2022, which saw only 29% of students who received the election email vote.

COLLEGEDALE NEWS

K9 excellence: Maxim and Krino stand out at 2024 police awards

Hayden Kobza Collegedale News Editor

At the 2024 Collegedale Police Banquet, held Feb. 15 at the Chattanooga Elks Lodge, one of the department’s canine officers, Maxim, received a certificate from the American Police Hall of Fame. A second canine officer, Krino, was also recognized.

According to the awards panel, the heroic actions occurred on two occasions, leading to recognition of the two dogs and their human partners.

On Dec. 18, 2023, Collegedale Police Officer Albert Hasting stopped a vehicle being driven by an individual with a suspended license. Corporal Chase Watson, Officer Shawn Lewis, and canine Maxim assisted during the stop and investigation. Maxim made a positive alert of drug paraphernalia on the individual, which the officers checked. They made a drug charge after finding heroin.

The police officers involved received the General Commendation Award from the Ameri-

can Police Hall of Fame. Maxim was awarded the special citation of the American Police Hall of Fame for his outstanding and loyal service.

The awards panel also recognized outstanding service that took place on May 18, 2023, when Officer Derrick Saxe pulled over a vehicle with a violation. Upon further inspection with assistance from his canine partner, Krino, Saxe found narcotics and a gun in the vehicle. Because the driver had shown signs of intoxication, Saxe administered a sobriety test that led to multiple charges, including felony possession of methamphetamines, marijuana, possession of a firearm while intoxicated and possession of a firearm in the commission of a felony. Because of the assistance from Krino and the service of Saxe, the panel mentioned that the American Hall of Fame merit award for excellent arrest was given to Saxe.

According to the City of Collegedale website, the annual banquet has been held since

2020 “to honor the hard work and dedication of Collegedale’s [police officers].”

Chief of Police Jack C. Sapp III began the event by recognizing as special guests Collegedale city commissioners, Hamilton County commissioners, State Representative Greg Vital, City Manager Wayon Hines, Assistant City Manager Michelle Toro and Judge Jay Underwood.

After opening remarks by Corporal Josh Parson, the officers recited the Pledge of Allegiance and then listened to a rendition of the American national anthem by Officer Sammy Previlus.

Before the award ceremony, retired Chattanooga Police Chief David Roddy and current chief operating officer for Hamilton County, in a convocation speech, reminded officers that “Nobody achieves anything great by themselves.” Roddy said the community and families that support police officers are just as important as those who serve. As if to illustrate the point, Sapp said sheriff deputies were at that moment keeping watch

over Collegedale so police officers could attend the event.

Quoting the department motto, which is “to protect and to serve,” Roddy acknowledged the sacrifice of personal and family time that police officers often make in order to protect others.

In his closing remarks, Sapp spoke with emotion about his appreciation for the department and all the officers’ hard work to keep the City of Collegedale safe.

Maxim poses for a photo at the 2024 Collegedale Police Banquet. Thursday, February 15, 2024. (Photo by Besa Mehmeti Pierre)

2024 SA general election voter turnout represented by the percentage of students who received the election email that voted. (Graphics by Amanda Blake)

2024 SA general election voter turnout represented by class standings.

A Show by BCU: Riding Through Time - A Journey to Justice

The Supremes, Jazmin Mota (left), Trinity Hayden (center) and Mel Owiti (right), sing during BCU night. Saturday, February 24, 2024. (Photo by Andrew Boggess)

BCU Night lead cast members Edward Backer (left) and Neal Patterson (right) discuss Black rights in America. Saturday, February 24, 2024. (Photo by Andrew Boggess)

Kirsten Saint-Aime, director of BCU Night, closes the night with a speech.

Saturday, February 24, 2024. (Photo by Mila Bales)

Students sing "Stand Up" as other performers portraying civil rights protestors march throughout the gym.

Saturday, February 24, 2024 (Photo by Mila Bales)

Larnell Samuel carries a sign and marches through the gym among a group of students portraying civil rights protestors. Saturday, February 24, 2024. (Photo by Mila Bales)

MENTAL HEALTH

How cold-water immersion soothes the mind

Edward Backer Contributor

Editor’s Note: The following articles are written by counseling professionals from Counseling Services in partnership with the Southern Accent.

As a college student, you may often feel stressed out because you must continually study for homework and exams and live up to seemingly endless social expectations. Over time, it can be draining on your mental health to try to keep up with it all. But what if there was an easy and accessible way to boost your mental health from the comfort of your own dorm or the campus gym?

Well, there is! Ice baths and cold showers are an unconventional yet increasingly popular method that could hold the key to enhancing your psychological resilience. Both methods work on the principle of cold-water immersion (CWI), which has been extensively studied for its positive effects on physical and mental health. When our bodies are exposed to cold water, they undergo a series of reactions that can positively impact our mental state.

One of the most impressive benefits of CWI is its ability to reduce stress and improve our mood, according to a Plunge article. Exposure to cold water triggers the release of neurotransmitters, such as norepinephrine and beta-endorphins, which both have mood-boosting effects. Additionally, the shock of cold water may activate the body’s stress response, leading to a decrease in overall stress levels over time as the body adapts to the cold-water stimulus.

Regular exposure to cold water has also been linked to increased mental resilience, according to the article. Just as physical exercise strengthens our muscles, the discomfort of CWI can strengthen our mental resilience. By intentionally subjecting ourselves to a healthy yet temporary discomfort, we can build the psychological resilience necessary to cope with life’s inevitable challenges.

Taking cold showers has been proven to have a positive impact on alertness and mental clarity. Voluntarily exposing the body to cold water triggers the nervous system, resulting in a surge of adrenaline and increased focus. This is especially useful for students who need to concentrate for long periods while studying or preparing for important exams.

Additionally, for many students, stress and anxiety can lead to sleep disturbances. However, taking a cold shower before bedtime can promote better sleep by lowering the body’s core temperature, signaling the brain to wind down and prepare for rest and potentially improving the quality of your sleep.

This is because the timing of a cold shower affects your body’s internal clock, known as the circadian rhythm. The circadian rhythm, which operates on a 24hour cycle, controls many physiological functions, including hormone secretion, sleep-wake patterns and body temperature regulation, according to an Olive and Crate article. Throughout the day, our body temperature tends to vary naturally. It reaches its highest point during the late afternoon and begins to drop during the early morning

hours. This temperature shift signals to the brain that it’s time to get ready for sleep. By incorporating a cold shower into your routine, you can help your body prepare for sleep, resulting in better quality rest.

Incorporating CWI into your routine can be a simple yet powerful way to enhance your mental health. You can start by gradually reducing the water temperature during your showers or by going to the Hulsey Wellness Center and trying the

ice baths. Begin with short durations and slowly increase the time as you become more accustomed to the cold.

Remember to listen to your body and stop if you experience anything beyond mild discomfort. After all, the goal is to help your body, not hurt it. If taking the plunge seems intimidating initially, the potential mental health benefits make it worth considering. So, the next time you feel overwhelmed or need a mental boost, consider adding

CWI to your routine. Your mind will thank you.

Correction:

In Issue 18, the Accent published an incorrect byline in the Mental Health column. “The power of H20: How hydration boosts mental wellness” was written by Shayla Moguel-Coronel, not Tiffany Bartell. The Accent is committed to accuracy and apologizes for this mistake.

sourced from Pexels)

SPORTS

Can you imagine spending your entire life training to become an elite athlete, achieving your lifelong dream of winning an Olympic medal and then having it kept from you because one of your opponents cheated? This ridiculous scenario is unfortunately a reality for the American and Japanese participants of the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics figure skating team event.

Two years ago, American figure skating team members were preparing to receive their silver medals for the team event when the medal ceremony was indefinitely postponed due to news that an athlete on the top-scoring team, Russia, had tested positive for a banned performance-enhancing drug. For the first time in Olympic history, the

athletes who had placed first, second and third received empty medal boxes instead of medals.

As reported by Christine Brennan for USA Today, the athlete with a positive doping test was Kamila Valieva, the 15-year-old star of the Russian figure skating team who had been undefeated the entire season. Unfortunately, her positive test didn’t come as a surprise, as Russia was already being sanctioned after the discovery of its yearslong, state-sponsored doping scheme. In order to compete in Beijing, the Russian athletes had been allowed to participate only as the “Russian Olympic Committee” instead of competing under their country’s name, flag and anthem.

As a minor, Valieva was considered to be a “protected person” and thus subject to lessstrict sanctions. After a one-day

hearing in which Valieva claimed that her grandfather’s medications must have gotten mixed into a dessert that he gave her, the Russian Anti-Doping Agency (RUSADA) predictably ruled to let its own athlete continue to compete in the individual women’s event that week and extended the postponement of the team event medal ceremony.

What makes this situation unique is that in the past, medals have been awarded then rescinded and re-awarded after investigations and placement adjustments have taken place. The delay in this case effectively punished the “clean” American and Japanese teams by denying them their medals and their “Olympic moment.” It would have been fairer to those athletes if the International Olympic Committee had awarded the silver and bronze medals on schedule in Beijing and withheld only the gold medal, due to the pending investigation.

After the Olympics, Valieva’s case was reviewed and debated by RUSADA and was eventually taken up by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). On Jan. 29, 2024, a CAS press release announced that Valieva was guilty of an anti-doping rule violation and disqualified her Olympic results. The following day the International Skating Union (ISU) announced via press release that the new order of the figure skating team medals would be gold for Team USA, silver for Team Japan and bronze for Team Russia.

Despite disqualifying Valieva, the ISU did not reallocate her points by moving all female singles competitors below her up a placement, which would have given Team Canada the bronze medal and moved Team Russia into fourth place. Team Canada is currently appealing the ISU’s decision in hopes of receiving the bronze medals, and Team Russia is appealing because it thinks the team deserves gold medals.

The American and Japanese athletes want to receive their overdue medals as quickly as possible, and many have suggested the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics as the appropriate venue for holding the medal ceremony that the teams were denied in Beijing. However, as reported by NPR, all Russian athletes are currently barred from Olympic competition unless they compete as “neutral athletes,” due to the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, so a medal ceremony with Russian athletes on the podium would be awkward.

Unfortunately, it is far too late for the American and Japanese teams to capitalize on any increased prestige and endorsements that upgraded medals would bring, and Team Canada has lost the opportunity to get the governmental funding that would have been allocated toward figure skating if it had medaled in Beijing.

Ten days after its first announcement, the ISU released a second statement standing by the decision to not appropriately redistribute the placement points, but it promised to clarify the rulebook to prevent similar situations in the future. Not updating the placements means that the Russian team is effectively still being rewarded for having had a skater who doped on its team.

In the interest of fairness and consistency, when the ISU reviews its decision in the appeals process, I believe it needs to follow the disqualification precedent and award Team Canada the bronze medal. The ISU should also investigate Valieva’s coaching team, who likely coerced the 15-year-old into taking the performance-enhancing drug. It is regrettable that the appeals process is further delaying closure of this case, but the American and Japanese teams should be awarded their gold and silver medals as soon as possible.

Today’s Southern Volleyball Intramurals Schedule

Court 1 6 p.m. FRIJOLITOS v. ADOBALLS (MEN’S B)

6:45 p.m. DARREN SIHOTANG v. MARTIANS (MEN’S B)

7:30 p.m. BANG BROS v. OLD SCHOOL (MEN’S A)

8:15 p.m. WHO DA BADDIES v. LADIES WITH GENTLE HANDS (CO-ED A)

9 p.m.NET WORTH v. TEAM BARLOW (CO-ED A)

9:45 p.m. BRANYI WILL PROBABLY HIT NET v. THE ORPHANAGE (CO-ED A) Court 2 6 p.m. BLACKOUT v. VOLLEYBAES (WOMEN’S A) 6:45 p.m. GATAS v. SERVE-IVORS (WOMEN’S B)

7:30 p.m. SUPER SMASH BROS v. I DINK I LOVE U (WOMEN’S A)

8:15 p.m. PREDATORS v. THE EMPIRE SPIKES BACK (CO-ED B)

9 p.m. FOUR FOUR FOUR v. HIGH HITTERS (CO-ED A)

9:45 p.m. ALL STARTS v. I’M BOUTTA NET (CO-ED B) Court 3 6 p.m. YA DIG v. THE END (WOMEN’S A)

6:45 p.m. TEAM JUNYUL v. ALL SET (WOMEN’S B)

7:30 p.m. JOLLY VOLLEY v. ICE SPIKE (WOMEN’S B)

8:15 p.m. KACHOW v. JOLLIBALL (CO-ED B)

9 p.m. THE VOLLERBALLERS v. THE CANIAC COMBO (CO-ED B)

9:45 p.m. VOLLEYBABES v. BRAZUCAS (CO-ED B)

Court 4

6 p.m. UPPER DECKIES v. THE SETTLERS (MEN’S B)

6:45 p.m. BETA BLOCKERS v. TAPE WARRIORS (MEN’S A)

7:30 p.m. JON’S MAGIC WAND v. SETTING DUCKS (MEN’S A)

8:15 p.m. NOTORIOUS D.I.G v. SUPER LIGHTNING FLASH

EXPLODE (CO-ED B)

9 p.m. BIG EATERS v. HIT AND CHILL (CO-ED B)

9:45 p.m. THE REAL SVA v. FORTNITE CREW (CO-ED B)

Cold-water

OPINION Research matters: Vote for principles over party

Alexis Dewey Opinion Editor

I went to the election polls with a friend a few years ago to vote for our state and local government representatives. Before arriving at the poll site, I researched the candidates running for the different offices. When I arrived at the voting precinct, I knew exactly who I wanted to vote for and why. I voted, got my cute little sticker and waited on my friend.

After my friend voted and we left in the car, I began talking about how I had not found much research on a few candidates, so I struggled determining who to support. My friend then said that she had not researched any of the candidates and did not know who any of them were. My jaw nearly dropped to the floor, and my cute “I voted” sticker fell off my shirt, disappointed.

The United States has many political parties, but the two main ones are the Republican and Democratic parties. I don’t think I need to go into the details of what each of these parties believes, as I’m sure most of you already know or have a basic understanding of them. Republicans are considered more conservative, while Democrats are seen as more liberal. That is just the way it is.

I have noticed that people often associate themselves with a particular party that aligns with their ideologies and beliefs. This strategy makes sense. Why would you not support the party you agree with the most? However, simply because you belong to that party does not mean you should vote for everyone running within that party. What if, instead, we all voted for the person who aligns with what we want and believe rather than

just the person endorsed by a certain party?

Let me give you an example. One year, I decided to vote for a county official in my town who was not in the party I identified with at that time. I did this because when I researched the candidate’s standings on specific issues, I disagreed with him

on several things, including the fact that he wanted to restrict and eventually get rid of homeschooling in my area. Therefore, I voted for the other candidate more closely aligned with my wants and beliefs.

This is a prime example of why we should take our time to research candidates and issues

before we vote. We can have a strong opinion only if we research first. I firmly believe in voting, but I also understand the difficulty of staying up-to-date with the news while in college. After a full day of work, classes and homework, the last thing I want to do is read the news — mainly because it is not usually positive. However, stay-

ing informed about the current events in our country is important. With 2024 being an election year, it is important to start researching now, because early voting for the primary elections is already underway, and the November elections will be here before we know it.

“We can only have a strong opinion if we research first.” (Photo sourced from Pexels)

RELIGION

Student testimony: When Jesus leads you to Gethsemane

Kristen

Page Contributor er Derek’s leukemia diagnosis a few months before. I said under my breath, “I will follow God no matter what happens.”

Surrender. It’s a word I don’t especially like. It sounds like giving up, losing, not getting what I pray for. I can understand surrendering a bad habit. Even if I don’t like it now, it’s clearly for my good in the long run. But what about the good things I long for? Why do I need to surrender those?

I have a distinct memory from when I was 9 years old. I found myself in my front yard, leaning on the fence and gazing over the valley below. I was trying to make sense of the disaster my life had become since my broth-

Fast forward four years: my brother had relapsed twice and was fighting for his life a third time. As a teenager, it hit me differently. I was no longer able to live life one day at a time, as I had when I was younger. I prayed harder, doubted more, worried constantly. I wrestled with God for my brother’s life.

One day I heard a sermon that tore my heart out, shredded it and shoved it back into my chest. The pastor shared a series of miracle stories, but the last story he told was about

a lady who had cancer and was not healed. Somehow in that moment, I knew. But I was not about to surrender. I wrestled harder; I hardly ate; I stayed up late pleading and got up before dawn to beg some more, but there was no answer. That sermon kept gnawing around in my thoughts. The pastor said we had to be willing to surrender all of our desires, even for life itself. “Ok, God. I will surrender. What’s going to happen is going to happen, and I am choosing to still follow You. But, God, would you do this one thing?

Please show Derek a glimpse of what heaven will be like before

he dies.” My brother was gone within 48 hours. Death is ugly, and grief is not much prettier. I felt so lonely. Of course, I concealed all this under a bubbling, giggly exterior. But alone in bed, there was no one to hide from. I cried myself to sleep most nights. I asked “why?” a thousand times, and God slowly revealed some things to me. I learned to lean hard on God.

I learned that He is faithful to His promise, “As your days, so will your strength be.” (Deuteronomy 33:25). God never promised that my life would be easy. But being a Christian isn’t about answered prayers; it’s about follow-

ing Jesus, and He ended up in Gethsemane pleading, “My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me.” (Matthew 26:39). God said “No” to His own son. Jesus surrendered and died a horrible death the next day. In the moment, all of His suffering seemed pointless. Yet because of His experience, Jesus is acquainted with my grief. God cared about me enough to die for me, and that’s why I will keep following Him, no matter what happens. I am confident that God never takes us on a path He Himself has not walked. If you are struggling, take courage, my friend. He will give you strength.

LIFESTYLE

Five spring break beach destinations less than seven hours from Collegedale

Amy Mejias Reporter

With Spring Break coming up in a few weeks, you may want to get away from school for a little while, rest and celebrate making it halfway through the semester! One great Spring Break option is the beach, and there are several within a short driving distance of the Collegedale area!

Golden Isles, Georgia: The Golden Isles, which include both

Jekyll Island and St. Simons Island, are about a 6-hour and 15-minute drive from Collegedale. My favorite thing about these beaches? Generally, they are not as populated as the more popular beach locations, so if you are looking for miles of coastline to yourself, this is your place! Both of these islands offer several dining and shopping options, and if you happen to be a history buff, you can find that there as well! The islands tend to be more low-key, so if you are looking for something more

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

Dear Kevin

Dear Kevin, I’m worried that my friendships will suffer because of my busy schedule. How can I spend quality time with my friends while keeping up with my classes and extra activities?

Dear Busy Bea, I can definitely relate, because I am quite the busy duck myself and always have my tail feathers in a ruffle. Between my fishing and my bread-eating, it’s hard to find time for friends. When possible, you could try to plan ahead and look at your schedule to find pockets of time that you can dedicate to cultivating your friendships. You’re super busy, but your friends are probably busy too, so it’s important to try to be flexible. Find the balance and put all of your ducks in a row.

Dear Kevin, My roommates are so messy. No one wants to take out the trash, do the dishes or wipe down the counters. It’s so hor-

rible that I would go as far as to call it nasty! I still like my roommates, but how do I tell them to clean up their mess?

Dear Cleaning Chris,

This is a tough situation. If this were happening at my pond, I think I would have to speak up and say something. I pride myself on having a clean place to nest. Confronting your roommates faceto-face might seem daunting, so you could try sending a group text addressing the problem. If that doesn’t work, you might need to request a house meeting or talk to them one on one, in person.

As much as possible, try to keep your space neat and tidy. It will help give you peace of mind and might encourage the others to clean up their acts. You have to lead by example.

Living with people can be difficult, but try your best not to let this consume you and ruin your relationship with your roommates. Soon the semester will be over, and before you know it, this will all be a distant memory.

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.

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

relaxed, these two islands are a great option.

Destin, Florida: If you are looking for a beach city that is a little livelier, Destin may be for you! Located on the Gulf of Mexico about a 6-hour and 15-minute drive from Collegedale, Destin has the clear emerald water that will make you forget all of your worries! It does tend to be a more touristy area, which means that there are many dining, shopping and activity options, but it can be a little crowded at times.

Panama City Beach, Florida: Like Destin, Panama City Beach is also a popular Spring Break destination. Panama City Beach is about a 6-hour and 20-minute drive from Collegedale and offers many beach access points, attractions and oceanfront dining options. It is also a popular area for fishing and scuba diving, if either of those happens to be your hobbies!

Hilton Head, South Carolina: Hilton Head is one of the closest beaches to us, just under a

6-hour drive from Collegedale. This Atlantic resort town has immaculate beaches, great food, and offers activities such as golf and biking trails.

Tybee Island, Georgia: Located just outside of Savannah, GA, Tybee Island is about a 5-hour and 40-minute drive from Collegedale. Enjoy wide beaches and a dolphin cruise, or visit the Tybee Marine Science Center and explore nearby Savannah!

$10

Jekyll Island, Georgia. Monday, September 5, 2022. (Photos by Amy Mejias)

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Photo Credit: Lillie Lelko

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Photo Credit: Sedona Hessler

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Elyse Baltodano N E

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Photo Credit: Abdiel Vargas

Beckie Vega

Eliana Morales

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Photo Credit: Tania Moorooven

sofiareneegil heaven-sent !!

Photo Credit: Herself

Macy McIntosh

Sofía

Today — 28

Thursday — 29

Hyve Creators 2024, Iles PE Center

(FREE)

Payday: Salary

Convocation: Kim Gorgens - Schutte Family Lecture Series, 11:00 a.m. @ Iles PE Center

Friday — 1

p.m. @ Collegedale Church

Sunday — 3

Weekly Birthdays

TODAY |28

Cindy Berger

Elden Borillo

Sarah Borovic

Cira Buffington

Julia Bullon

Jessie Burnstein

Lauren Kang Hubert Maitland

Taylor Monday

Mica Myers

Sophia Schwartzrock

Genesis Tchakarov

Annette Vazquez

Olivia Wilson

Esther Yun

Thursday |29

Michael Berglund

Amelia Duerksen

Friday |1

Saray Castillo-Cruz

Cambria Donato

Emily Garrett

Ashtyn Hyde

Amandine Moorooven

Andrew Moyer

Emily Nogueira

Connor Peeke

Ethan Stephens

Oneicia Thomas

Saturday |2

Ceilidh Johnson

Jake Johnson

Jessa Kinney

Charls Lolandes

Janice Ortega

Matt Polehna

Stephanie Polehna

Jaime Simulis

Brandon Starr

Kent Suddarth

Sunday |3

Maiya Banks

Ethan Ingberg

Edmund Johnson

Jared Little

Taylor Waterman

Monday |4

Clark Cinco

Ethan Johnson

Larissa Menezes

Ange Ronalds

Kim Siefert

Siosiua Telefoni

Tuesday |5

Katherine L. Ashlock

Emma Boughman

Jenna Brockette

Jeffrey Filiberto

Robert Herr

Liz Hilario

Kevin Johnson

Saturday — 2

I Cantori Concert Tour Connect, 9:00 a.m. @ Collegedale

Church Sabbath Chats, 10:00 - 11:15 a.m. @ Bietz Center

SOAP Outdoor Church: Hiking, 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. @ Wright Hall Steps

Merge Worship,

Kc Alegrado Cabil Caleb Bartutis

Is Pluto a planet?

Mikayla Zimmermann

This Week’s Poll: Tell

Tuesday — 5

No Field Trips

Monday — 4

Last Week’s Results:

Disney or Dreamworks?

MASTER’S DEGREE IN SOCIAL WORK

Facilitate Positive Change in People’s Lives

Southern’s Master of Social Work program prepares you for excellent service and leadership positions.

It works

Our evidence-based program equips you with effective intervention tools.

It’s convenient

Classes meet in person on campus or synchronously via Zoom every other Sunday. With careful planning, you can complete a bachelor’s degree AND a master’s degree in five years!

You’ll be ready

Our approach is competency based. That means you get hands-on skills and experience in social work practice while you’re in school.

Master of Social Work

With a multi-disciplinary approach and a variety of concentrations, an MSW from Southern prepares you to serve a wide variety of people in need.